A hard hitting movie, TCG focuses attention on the deadly clinical trials of half-baked drugs in Africa, and the evil axis of drug manufacturers, medical care providers and governments in the multi-billion dollar pharma business. Shot in stunning locations in Africa, TCG brings the dust, the garbage, the happy but very deprived children, the squalor, the beauty of the continent right into your living room, leaving you spell bound with experiences of a world so far removed from our own reality...
When Tessa, a rebellious aid worker, is brutally murdered in the midst of her investigations into the pharma cartels, her death is blamed on her friend and partner, a black doctor, as a crime of passion. But as her husband Justin, a British diplomat, tries to unravel the truth behind her death, he is also sucked into a whirlpool from where escape is impossible. Will Tessa and Justin be able to make their deaths count?
Rachel Weisz as Tessa looks fiesty and stunning, and Ralph Fiennes provides the perfect foil as her soft-spoken, gentle husband.
A serious movie, and it will leave you touched.
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Movie Review: The Adventures of Tintin (3D)
One of the most endearing characters from my childhood, now on screen. Expected a lot, but came back a little disappointed. Somehow, with the motion capture animation techniques (where real human characters are fitted with sensors and their every motion and expression captured and mapped to the cartoon figures giving life like movements, gestures and expressions), the cartoon characters became too human to be endearing. With glassy eyes and plastic skin, the characters float in the space between humans and robots, almost like sinister humanoids... (here's an article that talks about The Uncanny Valley, an interesting problem in animation)
Some of the scenes rock - the detailing, the lighting, the technical brilliance behind the animation never ceases to wow me, now that I have myself been dabbling in it at work.The 3D is an unnecessary burden to the eyes, the glasses sit uncomfortably on the nose, the bright cartoons from Herge darken into not-so-exciting hues - wonder if this is the future of cinema - oh god, please give me back my 2D! And when most of the 3D is in-screen, it doesn't really make much sense.
After Avataar, one does expect a lot. In delivering that, Tintin fails. But on its own, not a bad watch - especially if you can catch the 2D version.
Some of the scenes rock - the detailing, the lighting, the technical brilliance behind the animation never ceases to wow me, now that I have myself been dabbling in it at work.The 3D is an unnecessary burden to the eyes, the glasses sit uncomfortably on the nose, the bright cartoons from Herge darken into not-so-exciting hues - wonder if this is the future of cinema - oh god, please give me back my 2D! And when most of the 3D is in-screen, it doesn't really make much sense.
After Avataar, one does expect a lot. In delivering that, Tintin fails. But on its own, not a bad watch - especially if you can catch the 2D version.
Simple Things
Went for the buffet spread at the Spice Kitchen at the Pune Mariott today - and of all the delicious things they have on offer, what was really amazing, as usual, was the curd rice with aloo and chana chaat. Isn't it amazing how sometimes the best things in life are the simplest?
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Discovered Whatsapp on recommendation of a friend - pretty cool, actually... works like IM and SMS, all the good points, minus the cost. Works beautifully as an offline messaging tool, and equally well as a chat client. Works on data connection, so very cheap when compared to sending SMSes, especially when you are roaming. And best of all, since it is tied to a cell phone, the identity of the person and the security/privacy is much tighter than with a typical chat client.
Pretty good stuff, and available on most platforms - try it out!
Pretty good stuff, and available on most platforms - try it out!
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Movie Review: 127 Hours
Had heard a lot about this Danny Boyle movie - and had missed it in the theatres, so got a BluRay last night.
127 Hours is the story of an adventurous Aron Ralston (James Franco) who has a bad fall into a crevice, finds his hand crushed behind a fallen boulder, trapping him inside the crevice for 127 hours. It's a story of how he uses his spirit and humour, the strength of memories and dreams, to survive, and finally, gathers the strength to cut his own arm and escape certain death.
The movie has potential with some great visuals, and an interesting sound track by our own AR Rahman, but when more than an hour goes by with no action and a lot of dreaming and hallucination, you tend to get bored... the movie then suddenly turns really gory with the arm cutting scene, and is not for the weak hearted.
Apparently a real story.
Not too bad, but not what I expected it to be.
127 Hours is the story of an adventurous Aron Ralston (James Franco) who has a bad fall into a crevice, finds his hand crushed behind a fallen boulder, trapping him inside the crevice for 127 hours. It's a story of how he uses his spirit and humour, the strength of memories and dreams, to survive, and finally, gathers the strength to cut his own arm and escape certain death.
The movie has potential with some great visuals, and an interesting sound track by our own AR Rahman, but when more than an hour goes by with no action and a lot of dreaming and hallucination, you tend to get bored... the movie then suddenly turns really gory with the arm cutting scene, and is not for the weak hearted.
Apparently a real story.
Not too bad, but not what I expected it to be.
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Puneville
Met Mark Skaggs, creator of Farmville and Cityville, at the NASSCOM Gaming Developers Conference in Pune this week, and were thrilled to hear him speak about his experiences and learnings in his unbelievable journey.
Here is a picture of him being welcomed by Rajesh Rao of Dhruva Interactive and Rajiv Vaishnav from NASSCOM, before his keynote address.
Here is a picture of him being welcomed by Rajesh Rao of Dhruva Interactive and Rajiv Vaishnav from NASSCOM, before his keynote address.
Preview: Don 2
Don 2 promos looking really good... SRK looks smashing in black, and his jail avataar is even more sexy, the action fast paced, the car chases edge of the seat... the kind of movie that brings out the showman in the King to the fullest.. really looking forward to it!
International Sunrises
Came across this amazing programme "Sunrise Earth International" on Discovery HD last night - a 30 min immersive experience of the sunrise at some wonderful yet perfectly "normal" location in the world. Last night, it was a village in Turkey. Just cameras placed at different locations and live sound capturing the 30 mins of life coming to earth as the sun rises beyond the hills. It was mesmerizing, took me right back to childhood, to those wonderful picnics to wonderful locations in the lap of nature, to those early mornings in villages where the cock announces the sunrise, where tweets do not mean 140 characters... the muezzin announcing prayers somewhere in the background... a lone shepherd taking her cow for grassing... an old man picking up oranges....
Truly stunning...
Truly stunning...
Movie Review: Rockstar
Lesson No 1: To create music, you need to have a tragedy touch your heart. To be a rockstar, you need to wear pyjama pants, have unkempt hair and a sullen look and make a lot of noise while jumping up and down.
Lesson No 2: If you love someone, you need to kiss every time you see each other. Whether you like it or not.
That's all I can help you with. If you still want to go ahead and waste a beautiful weekend, go watch Rockstar.
A good entertainer needs a great cast, a good story, some action, beautiful music, some comedy, great locales, emotions, feelings.. or SRK. Unfortunately, Rockstar has little of it, and fails to capitalize on what it does have - the beautiful Nargis Fakhri.
Ranbir is disappointing, too much of his sullen and unkept look, an idiot act that starts irritating you very quickly, stupid jokes that are forced into the script (he calls the Czech city Parag, and asks questions like "tumhare blood ki factory kharab hai kya?") and a character that faisl to evoke any sympathy or empathy. Nargis is beautiful, but needed the camera to love her, and it doesn't always flatter her. She also needed a dress designer who would bring out the amazing woman she is, not make her look like an old lady past her prime. When she does go western, she sizzles the screen - some of her initial shots in college, the dance in the black dress, the short dress where they have the long kiss dialog.. if she dresses like that, she will give all B town leading ladies sleepless nights. She loses out on acting though, and has a long way to go. To start with, she could try keeping the dialogue delivery a little less animated.
Kashmir and Prague as locales are as beautiful as they come... but just like Nargis, are under-utilized, which is such a shame.
The music doesn't rock, it sucks. Unless you count head banging to "Sadda Haqq" as uber cool rock. The lyricist obviously didn't report for work. And AR Rahman is probably suffering burn out.
And the story. Sorry, but between the 213 shots of Ranbir mouthing Sadda Haqq in his pyjamas, mostly repeated, I seem to have missed it. Something about staking a girl, forcing a few kisses in the name of love, becoming a devdas after her marriage, tracking her and stalking her again, becoming an overnight media sensation after getting deported for house break, losing it, helping her get her bone marrow back, head banging, getting a reputation... and I am not even sure about the ending... do they live happily every after, or does she die? I really did not get that part... there was too much head banging going on. It's one thing to take some cinematic liberties, it's another to rely on them alone!
And yes, I have a personal issue with movies which promote peer-pressure drinking, showing the middle finger, and stalking for kisses as a way to express your love.
I didn't enjoy the movie. If you do watch it, do let me know how you found it! Maybe I was just having a bad day!
Lesson No 2: If you love someone, you need to kiss every time you see each other. Whether you like it or not.
That's all I can help you with. If you still want to go ahead and waste a beautiful weekend, go watch Rockstar.
A good entertainer needs a great cast, a good story, some action, beautiful music, some comedy, great locales, emotions, feelings.. or SRK. Unfortunately, Rockstar has little of it, and fails to capitalize on what it does have - the beautiful Nargis Fakhri.
Ranbir is disappointing, too much of his sullen and unkept look, an idiot act that starts irritating you very quickly, stupid jokes that are forced into the script (he calls the Czech city Parag, and asks questions like "tumhare blood ki factory kharab hai kya?") and a character that faisl to evoke any sympathy or empathy. Nargis is beautiful, but needed the camera to love her, and it doesn't always flatter her. She also needed a dress designer who would bring out the amazing woman she is, not make her look like an old lady past her prime. When she does go western, she sizzles the screen - some of her initial shots in college, the dance in the black dress, the short dress where they have the long kiss dialog.. if she dresses like that, she will give all B town leading ladies sleepless nights. She loses out on acting though, and has a long way to go. To start with, she could try keeping the dialogue delivery a little less animated.
Kashmir and Prague as locales are as beautiful as they come... but just like Nargis, are under-utilized, which is such a shame.
The music doesn't rock, it sucks. Unless you count head banging to "Sadda Haqq" as uber cool rock. The lyricist obviously didn't report for work. And AR Rahman is probably suffering burn out.
And the story. Sorry, but between the 213 shots of Ranbir mouthing Sadda Haqq in his pyjamas, mostly repeated, I seem to have missed it. Something about staking a girl, forcing a few kisses in the name of love, becoming a devdas after her marriage, tracking her and stalking her again, becoming an overnight media sensation after getting deported for house break, losing it, helping her get her bone marrow back, head banging, getting a reputation... and I am not even sure about the ending... do they live happily every after, or does she die? I really did not get that part... there was too much head banging going on. It's one thing to take some cinematic liberties, it's another to rely on them alone!
And yes, I have a personal issue with movies which promote peer-pressure drinking, showing the middle finger, and stalking for kisses as a way to express your love.
I didn't enjoy the movie. If you do watch it, do let me know how you found it! Maybe I was just having a bad day!
Friday, November 11, 2011
Movie Review: Immortals
Unsufferables.
If the 3D goggles and dark artificial lighting throughout doesn't get you, the blood and gore will.
Bad movie, but a good cure for insomnia.
If the 3D goggles and dark artificial lighting throughout doesn't get you, the blood and gore will.
Bad movie, but a good cure for insomnia.
Movie Review: Catch Up
A harried married man with 3 kids (including new born twins), and a stressful job. A happy go lucky jobless playboy. When a piss in the fountain and a wish to live each other's life comes true, all hell breaks lose.
Another of those "watch only if you like gross adult jokes which don't make you laugh much really" genre.
Avoidable.
Another of those "watch only if you like gross adult jokes which don't make you laugh much really" genre.
Avoidable.
Movie Review: Flypaper
Just as Tripp (the handsome Patrick Dempsey) walks into a bank and starts flirting with the pretty teller, Kaitlin (Ashley Judd), it comes under attack from two different gangs, both trying to rob it at a rare moment of security systems shutdown. One gang is a pair of buffoons trying to blow open the ATMs with weapons grade explosives, the other a trio of hard core professionals going after the vault with their computers and gadgets. Add an eclectic mix of bank staff and customers as hostages, and what you have is a hilarious comedy as Tripp and Kaitlin try to save the day... until things start looking very sinister.
What is really going on? As more and more people are found dead, the plot get murkier and deadlier...
Pat and Ashley make a great pair, the movie is an enjoyable watch!
What is really going on? As more and more people are found dead, the plot get murkier and deadlier...
Pat and Ashley make a great pair, the movie is an enjoyable watch!
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Carbon Footprint on eMee
Do you know how your life style choices impact the environment? Do you know what your carboon foot print is, and what you can do to neutralize it? Play the carbon footprint game on eMee's FB page, and find out!
http://www.facebook.com/Cafe.eMee?sk=app_4949752878
http://www.facebook.com/Cafe.eMee?sk=app_4949752878
Movie Review: The Kingdom
When an American compound in the Saudi kingdom is hit in a devastating terror attack by a terror cell, an elite team of 4 FBI special agents led by Ronald Fleury (Jamie Foxx) arrive with the permission of a reluctant Saudi government to try and crack open the case and find the mastermind, believed to be the "ghost" Abu Hamza. With just 5 days at their disposal, and a very unfriendly Saudi general leading the investigation, things look bleak until they uncover a vital clue, and win the support of a brave Saudi police officer, Col Faris Al Ghazi (Ashraf Barhoum) ...
With some breathtaking action, from car chases to hand combat, bombings and shootings, an excellent screen play and edge of the seat story telling, amazing locales, and a cast that does complete justice to the roles, the movie is an absolute must-see.
And the ending.. two scenes... Fleury's promise to his team at the beginning of the investigation... and Abu Hamza's dying words to his grand son... "We will kill them all". Sums up everything that's happening today, doesn't it?
With some breathtaking action, from car chases to hand combat, bombings and shootings, an excellent screen play and edge of the seat story telling, amazing locales, and a cast that does complete justice to the roles, the movie is an absolute must-see.
And the ending.. two scenes... Fleury's promise to his team at the beginning of the investigation... and Abu Hamza's dying words to his grand son... "We will kill them all". Sums up everything that's happening today, doesn't it?
Wednesday, November 09, 2011
Bangalore Vistas
Day 2 (yesterday) in Bangalore was a lot more interesting... the NASSCOM Product LaunchPad in the morning (we missed NDTV coverage - they ran off to cover BSY's walk out from jail at the precise moment we were to take stage) and after seducing the press, took a relaxed jaunt in UB City, Bangalore's ultra-chic luxury mall, with mobile phones worth 4.5 lakh, jackets worth 65,000, denims worth 25,000 and undies worth 3,000! No, we didn't shop much :) Chilled out in the beautiful food court, and later, we went to the garment wholesale market, to meet a friend, and finally, caught the Volvo to the airport, making it well in time for some last minute shopping before catching the Jet flight to Pune. Here are some pictures, in random order, of the day that was...
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| Peter Yorke opens the NASSCOM Product LaunchPad |
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| Brigade road - Bangalore's Shopping Hub at 3.00 pm |
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| Namma Metro! Just missed the coaches zooming past.. |
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| And to the left, on MG Road, the Metro Station |
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| The luxurious UB City |
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| UB City Business Tower... no, this isn't Manhattan |
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| The very beautiful UB City Food Plaza |
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| Tick what you want to eat... |
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| Truly amazing Wasabi Prawns with finely chooped pineapple, simply delicious flavours |
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| Another view of the UB City Food Plaza |
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| The pretty roof of the UB City foyer |
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| This too, is Bangalore |
Tuesday, November 08, 2011
Bangalore
Kinda disappointing first impression... dusty, polluted and very dead at 10 pm. Nice elevated expressway from the airport planned, but most of it is still under construction. Meru Taxi was decent, but the driver almost managed to get us killed. The suite is ok, but gave us a common room when they had confirmed two. No restaurant close by, but at least we were able to order some home delivery! Overall, not too impressed :(
Monday, November 07, 2011
Off To Bangalore
Off to Bangalore tonight for the NASSCOM LaunchPAD event tomorrow at the Taj Gateway, where we will be launching eMee - one of the 10 products selected for this prestigious event out of 60+ aspirants! Watch out for updates....
Sunday, November 06, 2011
Movie Review: Ti Ratr (Marathi)
An interrupted honeymoon and her husband Rajan's (Santosh Juvekar) possessiveness suddenly takes a sinister turn for Rajani (Aditi Sarangdhar) when strange, unexplained things start happening at home. As the tension builds up, a sales man (Subodh Bhave) turns up at the door for a "demo" while her husband is away. And when the tomato sauce spilled by him on the floor turns out to be the blood of her beloved lovebirds, it's time to panic! Rajan returns home, finds his wife bound and gagged, and is attacked and slashed in the throat by the salesman, and taken upstairs where he is kept hostage while he hypnotizes Rajani and continues to extract some hard truths from her past...
When Rajani wakes up, Rajan is hale and hearty, and convinces her it's just been a terrible dream.
Everything is fine, until one day, when cleaning the fish tank, Rajani finds the salesman's ring!
A good psycho-thriller, except for the predictable and lame end. Some explanations are best left not given!
When Rajani wakes up, Rajan is hale and hearty, and convinces her it's just been a terrible dream.
Everything is fine, until one day, when cleaning the fish tank, Rajani finds the salesman's ring!
A good psycho-thriller, except for the predictable and lame end. Some explanations are best left not given!
Saturday, November 05, 2011
Movie Review: In Time
Time is the new currency. People are genetically engineered to live and age till 25, at which time they get a bonus of one extra year. After that, you can either earn more time, or get timed out. The world is divided into Zones... at one end, the ghettos where people have less than 30 days of time left, and New Greenwich at the other, the few immortals with eons on their clocks.
In such a world, Will (Justin Timberlake) gets a rare gift - a century worth of time. With Sylvia (Amanda Seyfried), the daughter of one of New Greenwich's rich immortals, by his side, Wills sets out to rob time from the rich and give to the poor. Will he succeed or will he end up upsetting the balance in a world where many must die so that a few can be immortal?
Notwithstanding the sci-fi nature of the plot, the movie makes perfect sense, and makes you think about that non-replenishable stock of time you have been given... are you using it wisely? What would you do if you had those green digits on your hand, continuously reminding you of how much time you have left? Would you still live the same way?
A must watch!
In such a world, Will (Justin Timberlake) gets a rare gift - a century worth of time. With Sylvia (Amanda Seyfried), the daughter of one of New Greenwich's rich immortals, by his side, Wills sets out to rob time from the rich and give to the poor. Will he succeed or will he end up upsetting the balance in a world where many must die so that a few can be immortal?
Notwithstanding the sci-fi nature of the plot, the movie makes perfect sense, and makes you think about that non-replenishable stock of time you have been given... are you using it wisely? What would you do if you had those green digits on your hand, continuously reminding you of how much time you have left? Would you still live the same way?
A must watch!
Thursday, November 03, 2011
Corruption
Kani was denied bail today by the court, which sought to make an example of her and the others accused and in jail for the 2G trial, in a ruling that has been hotly debated for its implications. The court made it clear that whether or not the CBI opposed the bail pleas or not (it had opposed the bail plea of the others, but chose not to oppose Kani's plea), the court would make its own decision based on the merits of the case.
Kalmadi, Kani, Raja, Koda, Hasan Ali, Amar Singh... the list keeps growing. Who said crime and corruption doesn't get punished in India?
Anna or otherwise, whether or not Lokpal Bill is passed in one form or the other, I am optimistic that corruption is firmly in the crosshairs!
Kalmadi, Kani, Raja, Koda, Hasan Ali, Amar Singh... the list keeps growing. Who said crime and corruption doesn't get punished in India?
Anna or otherwise, whether or not Lokpal Bill is passed in one form or the other, I am optimistic that corruption is firmly in the crosshairs!
Wednesday, November 02, 2011
Empty Roads
Drove a lot around the city today - interestingly, after 10 days in Goa, the roads felt empty! Yes - in Goa, the traffic was bumper to bumper, long snaking lines all over from Baga, to Calangute, to Panaji! Every alternate car was from Pune or Kolhapur, some from Belgaum, a few from Mumbai and Gujarat.
At Wadeshwar on FC in the evening, there were actually more than half a dozen parking slots free! Where're all the MH 12 cars? Parked near Brittos in Baga?
At Wadeshwar on FC in the evening, there were actually more than half a dozen parking slots free! Where're all the MH 12 cars? Parked near Brittos in Baga?
Tuesday, November 01, 2011
Can I Stretch It A Little More?
Back in office today, but not really back at work... can I stretch the vacation a wee bit more? :)
Sunday, October 30, 2011
The End... For Now
Almost at the end of the vacation – 10 awesome days in Goa. Tomorrow, we will be back in Pune, to life as we know it. It’s been an amazing vacation. No work, very little email, no meetings, no calls. Not much TV, just a local newspaper in the morning. Lots of fish, lots of sleep. Hours spent lazing around, day time Siestas for hours, deep REM sleep. Hours at the spa, getting everything mentionable on this blog pressed, rubbed and scrubbed, while the mind and eyes get into a trance, woken only by two phrases – Sir, is this pressure enough? and Sir, your treatment is over, can I get you some lemon tea? The longest and most relaxing vacation as far as I can remember, ever since vacations stopped being synonymous with going from one standard to another, gulping Rasna after hours of cricket in the sun, and getting sand into every crevice of the body on Nerul beach and being hosed down with a pipe before being allowed inside the house.
But it was also a vacation of misses or almost misses. I didn’t do any off-roading with Samara, even though the weather was perfect with lots of bright sun interspersed with some heavy showers. Almost didn’t make it to the beach – just managing to slip in one visit today morning. Almost missed the chaat at Miramar. Didn’t visit Naik Villa. And managed just one trip to Baga at night, although Tito’s was missed completely.
The vacation was too long.
Isn’t that how most of us live life? We know we have a lot of time on our hands, so we sleep. We take it easy, we keep procrastinating. We know we can do it later, so we push it. Until suddenly, the vacation is over. And sadly, in life, there’s no next time!
Friday, October 28, 2011
Aniceta
Meet Aniceta, earlier called Lisa, my first love, my first car... now my neighbour's love and my envy, just as pretty, just as beautiful! After having heard rumours earlier of her being in a bad accident, it was so heart warming to see her fit and fine, and extremely well taken care of. It was a strange feeling being with her, almost like a childhood flame you haven't seen in a while, but with a very special bond that only you share!
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Ra.One Collection.One
Ra.One could create a record at the box-office, with first-day collections predicted to touch Rs 22 crore, with 20 crores coming from Hindi version and 1 crore each from Tamil and Telugu. The Rs 145-crore film was released on Wednesday in 3,200 screens across India. Coming at a time when there are 4 consecutive holidays may work both for and against it. Although the evening shows on Diwali day were expected to be low on attendance due to Laxmi Puja, it was expected to run to packed houses in the night shows.
The current record is held by Salman's Bodyguard, which was released in 2700 screens and had collected 21 crores.
The current record is held by Salman's Bodyguard, which was released in 2700 screens and had collected 21 crores.
A Sweet Thrashing
And while we are at it, I should also mention that India finished a brownwash of England, handing a comprehensive 5-0 thrashing in sweet revenge of a very forgettable summer, giving India a perfect Diwali eve gift. Chasing India's below par score of 270 something at Eden Gardens (strengthened by a late in in the innings blitz by Dhoni who slammed 4 sixes and stayed unbeaten throughout the series), England were 129-0 and on the way to some redeemed pride, when Varun Aaron struck, leading to a complete capitulation by the English within the next 60 runs or so.
Wonder where Kapil paaji is these days... must be pretty disappointed!
Wonder where Kapil paaji is these days... must be pretty disappointed!
Goa
Half way through my extended Goa vacation - been a good one so far! Lots of fish, lots of sun (not been to the beach yet, though!). Watched Ra.One. A good night out in an open jeep for Narkasur night. Diwali the next day. Sanam's 10th birthday - a beautiful party (will post pics soon). Finally caught up with a very dear friend more than a decade since our last meeting. And lots of lots of lazying around.
The only regret - missing Pune and a special someone near and dear back there!
The only regret - missing Pune and a special someone near and dear back there!
Crazy About Coconuts
Got this nice picture forwarded from a friend... I am sure she doesn't have the copyright to this one, hence posting without her permission :)
Movie Review: Ra.One
Ra.One had started getting pretty mixed reviews from the Internet blogosphere when we caught up with him and G.One at the Inox last night. Die-hard SRK fans that we are, nothing would keep us from enjoying the superhero magnum opus! Turns out, we did have a smashing time… but in all truth, it could have been better. The movie thrilled us with the action, stunned us with the graphics and SFX, made us groove to the Akon numbers, but it failed miserably in doing something the King has never failed to do to viewers.. make them cry. Neither in sadness, nor in joy. And for me, that is where Ra.One loses out on being SRK’s magnum opus.
Shekhar Subramaniam is a game designer with one of the most advanced gaming companies in the UK, with silly curly hair and a lot of inspiration from Mr. Bean, all the way down to nudging other cars from their parking slots. He speaks with a South Indian accent, eats noodles mixed with curds with his hands, and basically does his best to make us laugh with his idiot act. And succeeds to some extent, especially when he tries to be a Michael Jackson with his “bad” dance moves. Trying desperately to impress his son Prateek (who spends all his time gaming and trying to look like his daughter, and succeeds at both!), and with his invaluable inputs on what makes a good game, Shekhar creates a game which has an indestructible villain Ra.One (Random Access Version One – until someone realizes, hey, that’s a cool name for a villain!), and his counterpart G.One, the good one, with just a 0.01% chance of winning. Stuffed with Artificial Intelligence and the most advanced technologies fathomable to this generation, Ra.One is guaranteed to be almost unbeatable, learning on its own, and able to come up with new stunts and moves every time you play!
Trouble begins when Ra.One gets a mind of its own, breathes life into its prototype, traverses the thin line between real and virtual, and goes out searching for the last online avatar to have played the game with him – Lucifer, intending to kill him and finish the suspended game. Needless to say, Lucifer is the on-screen persona used by Prateek, whose life is now in danger from the out of control Ra.One. When both the game designers, including Shekhar, are eliminated by Ra.One, it’s left to G.One to be the savior. But is he strong enough to stop Ra.One?
SRK is funny in both his Avatars, pulls off some really good action (although most of it is SFX) and has some beautiful dance steps to go with Akon’s Chammak Challo and Criminal numbers. Where he misses out this time is in bringing out the tears, and for the King of Hearts, that is a big setback. As I said earlier, the movie is devoid of emotions. You don’t really feel the terror of Ra.One, you don’t really celebrate the success of G.One. You don’t feel sad when Shekhar is killed, his death almost like another small setback in a video game you know you can always restart. In being a virtual game character, SRK loses his passion, his vein-straining dialogues, his skyward gaze with outstretched arms, his romanticism – essentially everything that makes his what he is best at. Funnily, in being virtual, he is more life-like and less of the larger than life SRK we all love!
Another negative – too many references to condoms, breasts, bums, and the pelvis – given that SRK movies pull in fans of all ages, this is definitely something that could have been toned down. Most of it is in good humour, but parents might want to keep some explanations ready.
Kareena looks sizzling hot, her scissor-cut gowns little longer than her belt, leaving nothing to imagination, although she has very little to do than act confused. Arjun Rampal is just one of the human forms taken by Ra.One and doesn’t make an appearance until well after half time. Looks great, but with most of him covered in a hooded robe most of the time, girls will not have enough of him. Priyanka and Sanjay Dutt make a forgettable cameo appearance in a video-game dream sequence at the beginning, inspired by Crouching Tiger Flying Dragon. Amitabh’s voice over is lost amidst the electronic bass makeover given to Ra.One. Chitti Robot also makes a brief appearance when G.One and his damsel and child in distress land in India, an interesting (and ridiculous at the same time) tribute to Yenna Rascala.
The Akon numbers are great, the dances accompanying them are stunning in their simplicity. Dildara has some beautiful music and will keep growing on you with every hearing, the fusion of Hindi and English simply breathtaking. Some of the other numbers aren’t too inspiring on the music CD, but fit in beautifully in the storyline, and will definitely come to you from a different perspective when you hear the music after the movie.
The story is decently paced, the build-up to Ra.One’s birth a tad slow and mired in too many technical details, but picks up pretty well from there on, till the end game, which is tiring and exhausting, and fails to excite, and, coming as it does at the end, will leave audiences with a not-so-exciting lingering taste of spoilt tiramisu after a great meal. The car chase sequence is Bourne-like stunning, the train sequence has a lot of Chittinspiration, with a “Speed”y ending! There are shades of Hulk, Spiderman, Superman, Matrix – and they all work pretty well, actually!
What Ra.One excels at, and leaves other Bollywood movies far, far behind is in the SFX and graphics. Pure, unadulterated excellence. Whether it is the pixelated build-up of Ra.One and G.One, or the horrifyingly realistic destruction of CST, the effect is top-notch and what makes the movie such a visual treat.
At the end of the 3 hours, audiences will come out thrilled at the action, stunned by the visuals, and grooved by the numbers, but with not a tear shed. For me, that is the victory and loss of SRK in Ra.One. He was good as a robot, but he wasn’t our SRK.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Avenged
3-0, another clinical performance by the Indians, Ajinkya Rahane top scoring with 91 in India's run chase, Dhoni guiding the team to win with yet another captain's knock. 2 more games to go, but with the series pocketed, India have given it back to England a little bit.
Of course, we still need to avenge the Test losses!
Of course, we still need to avenge the Test losses!
Coal Conspiracy?
Read an interesting view point the other day on the power crisis that's hit the country these days. While the official version is that unseasonal heavy rains and the Telangana stir have resulted in coal shortages at main power plants in the country, there was speculation that this was in fact a government ploy to build public support for nuclear power.
Outlandish? Or possible?
Outlandish? Or possible?
Movie Review: What's Your Number
Anna Faris plays Ally, a young pretty girl in Boston, who reads in an issue of Marie Claire that the number of men she has slept with – 20 – is twice the national average, and that the higher a woman's number is, the less likely she is to get married. Focused on ensuring she doesn't increase that number, Ally, with the help from the playboy-next-door Chris Evans (in return for letting him use her apartment to escape from his ladies), tracks down all her old boyfriends, to see if any one of them could be ideal husband material. Yes, you can predict the ending...
However, this rom com comes to life through Faris and the extremely good looking Chris. The script is fantastic, the jokes crisp and original, the adult humour extreme but enjoyable, the pace quick, and the leads great eye candy.
Watch it, ideally a late night show!
However, this rom com comes to life through Faris and the extremely good looking Chris. The script is fantastic, the jokes crisp and original, the adult humour extreme but enjoyable, the pace quick, and the leads great eye candy.
Watch it, ideally a late night show!
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Movie Review: Wrecked
Not yet in Indian theatres I believe, saw it on DVD. Better that way, because at least I could shut it off and sleep early.
So this guy wakes up and finds himself in a bad car wreck, in the bottom of a ravine, with two dead bodies, a gun and a trunk full of cash. A girl who mysteriously appears, talks to him, and poof, goes off like a ghost. A dog. A tiger also makes a brief appearance. Some flashing lights, some other apparitions - probably all in his mind. But who knows. Words as rare as the Kohinoor - he's alone in the jungle remember? He spends the first 10 mins trying to focus his eyes (which means you have to see a camera going in and out of focus), then the next 20 trying to get out of the car (over 2-3 days), and then the next 45 mins trying to crawl out of the jungle, only to find himself right back where he started.
Sorry, I really don't know how it ends - I fell asleep. Anyone's who sat through it - please update me.
So this guy wakes up and finds himself in a bad car wreck, in the bottom of a ravine, with two dead bodies, a gun and a trunk full of cash. A girl who mysteriously appears, talks to him, and poof, goes off like a ghost. A dog. A tiger also makes a brief appearance. Some flashing lights, some other apparitions - probably all in his mind. But who knows. Words as rare as the Kohinoor - he's alone in the jungle remember? He spends the first 10 mins trying to focus his eyes (which means you have to see a camera going in and out of focus), then the next 20 trying to get out of the car (over 2-3 days), and then the next 45 mins trying to crawl out of the jungle, only to find himself right back where he started.
Sorry, I really don't know how it ends - I fell asleep. Anyone's who sat through it - please update me.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Youngistan 2 Englishtan 0
Kohli's 112* and Gambhir's 84* powered India to their second victory over England in the revenge series, with 13.2 overs to spare and 8 wickets in hand. Glad to see Team India back on track! Yes, one might argue we lost to England in England and are champions only at home, but hey, doesn't that hold for England too? :)
Movie Review: The Lovely Bones
Old movie, saw it on DVD the other night because I love Saoirse Ronan, the Hanna girl, who played the 14 year old in The Lovely Bones. After she is murdered by a child predator when coming home from school one day, she tries to help her dad find her murderer before moving on from Earth.
A very beautiful movie, and if you have a daughter, it will touch you like few others can. The scene when she sees her dad searching desperately for her, and screams out to him, and realises he cannot hear her any more - because she is just a spirit now - and then, when he turns around in her direction, feeling her calling out to him... that scene is simply too much to sit through.
The movie ends beautifully though... leaving you happy and content to go to bed, hugging your daughter tight!
A very beautiful movie, and if you have a daughter, it will touch you like few others can. The scene when she sees her dad searching desperately for her, and screams out to him, and realises he cannot hear her any more - because she is just a spirit now - and then, when he turns around in her direction, feeling her calling out to him... that scene is simply too much to sit through.
The movie ends beautifully though... leaving you happy and content to go to bed, hugging your daughter tight!
Movie Review: Mujhse Fraaandship Karoge
The title of Mujhse Fraaandship Karoge is the only bad thing about this movie, a funny, cheesy, corny rom-com which thankfully tries to be neither philosophical nor educational about love on the Internet.
Vishal has the hots for the sexy Malvika, and chats up with her using his cool dude rock star friend Rahul's FB profile. What he doesn't know, is that Preity, who herself has fallen for Rahul's cute looks, is responding on Malvika's behalf! The thing is, Vishal and Preity can't stand each other in real life, but online, with all inhibitions off, they hit off like a dream! Will Vishal hook up with Malvika, will Preity get Rahul, or is it all going to be one big mess? The end is predictable, but well executed!
The big plus point about the movie is the fast pace, and short duration, a little less than 2 hours. The story develops and moves quickly, none of the sub-plots taking too long. There is no emotional BS. The songs are light and peppy, the breakups and makeups quick. The script is young, and smart. Saqib Saleem puts in a feisty performance as Vishal, and Saba Azad as Preity is very different, very likeable, and actually pretty good! They get along beautifully, and share some really good scenes. Tara looks hot and beautiful as Malvika, and Nishant Dahiya is a total cool dude, although he has very little to do.
Overall, a very enjoyable entertaining film that will keep you smiling. Don't miss it!
Vishal has the hots for the sexy Malvika, and chats up with her using his cool dude rock star friend Rahul's FB profile. What he doesn't know, is that Preity, who herself has fallen for Rahul's cute looks, is responding on Malvika's behalf! The thing is, Vishal and Preity can't stand each other in real life, but online, with all inhibitions off, they hit off like a dream! Will Vishal hook up with Malvika, will Preity get Rahul, or is it all going to be one big mess? The end is predictable, but well executed!
The big plus point about the movie is the fast pace, and short duration, a little less than 2 hours. The story develops and moves quickly, none of the sub-plots taking too long. There is no emotional BS. The songs are light and peppy, the breakups and makeups quick. The script is young, and smart. Saqib Saleem puts in a feisty performance as Vishal, and Saba Azad as Preity is very different, very likeable, and actually pretty good! They get along beautifully, and share some really good scenes. Tara looks hot and beautiful as Malvika, and Nishant Dahiya is a total cool dude, although he has very little to do.
Overall, a very enjoyable entertaining film that will keep you smiling. Don't miss it!
Movie Review: Ticha Baap Tyacha Baap (Marathi)
What happens when a strict disciplinarian Deshmukh and his family from Mumbai comes over to Goa, to the house of the fun loving, naughty and young at heart Faterfekar family, to discuss the love marriage of their daughter? Laughter, suspicions, misunderstandings, and then a happy ending.
The movie could have been a lot more fun for Goans like me, but the poor Konkani renditions, a bad mix of Marathi, Konkani and Malvani resulting in a concoction never heard any where in Konkan, and some over-the-top antics from completely unnecessary sidekicks, and very poorly executed dance numbers makes the movie a dud.
The movie could have been a lot more fun for Goans like me, but the poor Konkani renditions, a bad mix of Marathi, Konkani and Malvani resulting in a concoction never heard any where in Konkan, and some over-the-top antics from completely unnecessary sidekicks, and very poorly executed dance numbers makes the movie a dud.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Revenge
After a terrible series down in England, India gave it right back in the first one dayer - thrashing England by 126 runs after setting a target of 301 in their allotted 50. Dhoni led from the front smashing an unbeaten 87 off 70 balls. Ravinda Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin grabbed three wickets each and Umesh Yadav claimed two, ensuring England collapsed from a comfortable 111/2.
India were without Sachin and six other regulars, due to injury or poor form.
Just the beginning, but as they say, sometimes, all it takes is an opening..
India were without Sachin and six other regulars, due to injury or poor form.
Just the beginning, but as they say, sometimes, all it takes is an opening..
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Nokia Customer NoCare
A couple of months back, I had finally rescued my molested and scarred-for-life Nokia E75 back from a 3 month ordeal at Nokia customer service. Yet another example this week - my friend had given her cell for service, and couldn't find the receipt. When she went to collect her phone, she was first asked to get an affidavit from the court! The next day, when she tried again, she was told that only the Election ID card would be accepted as valid proof of her ID - no passport, no driving license. And that's not all - the guy categorically stated that he would keep the original with him, in return for the cell! Thankfully, she finally found the receipt, got her cell back, and swore never to go back there.
Now, come on, really? Or were you just happy harassing her?
Now, come on, really? Or were you just happy harassing her?
Movie Review: Doraemon in Nobita and the Steel Troops: New Age
As long as the name suggests, even the shouting and screaming excited kids fell asleep by the time Doraemon, Nobita and all the other Hindi-speaking Japanese kids fight the alien intruders and save planet Earth.
Watch it only if your kid forces you to.
And when it's all over, you can say, I told you so.
Watch it only if your kid forces you to.
And when it's all over, you can say, I told you so.
Movie Review: Thor
Three inter-galactical civilizations, the Humans, the mighty Asgardians and the evil Frost Giants of Jotunheim, clash in this epic adventure that thrills with some spectacular 3D FX and a good background score.
The mighty, arrogant warrior Thor is about to inherit the throne of Asgardia from the old king Odin, when a suprise attack by the Frost Giants of Jotunheim disrupts the ceremony. Thor recklessly attacks Jotunheim, threatening the peace in the universe, and earning the wrath of the King, who takes his powers from him and banishes him to Earth, leaving Thor’s half-brother Loki in line to be king. Will Thor be able to fight the Destroyer and prove himself worthy of again wielding his magical hammer Mjolnir?
For me the highlight was the 3D FX, and Natalie Portman. Not a must see, but not bad either.
The mighty, arrogant warrior Thor is about to inherit the throne of Asgardia from the old king Odin, when a suprise attack by the Frost Giants of Jotunheim disrupts the ceremony. Thor recklessly attacks Jotunheim, threatening the peace in the universe, and earning the wrath of the King, who takes his powers from him and banishes him to Earth, leaving Thor’s half-brother Loki in line to be king. Will Thor be able to fight the Destroyer and prove himself worthy of again wielding his magical hammer Mjolnir?
For me the highlight was the 3D FX, and Natalie Portman. Not a must see, but not bad either.
Movie Review: Horrible Bosses
Nick (Jason Bateman), Kurt (Jason Sudeikis) and Dale (Charlie Day) need to get rid of their horrible bosses (Kevin Spacey, Colin Farrell and Jennifer Aniston). With some expensive ill-advice from a drunk "fixer" (Jamie Foxx), the three devise the perfect plan to get rid of them... permanently. Will they be able to pull it off?
With humour cruder than in Hangover, the situations almost as bizarre, a lot of jokes around the bowel and urinary habits, and some action thrown in, Horrible Bosses requires an ID proof!
But yes, I totally got it... :) Chances are, you will too!
With humour cruder than in Hangover, the situations almost as bizarre, a lot of jokes around the bowel and urinary habits, and some action thrown in, Horrible Bosses requires an ID proof!
But yes, I totally got it... :) Chances are, you will too!
Natalie Portman
Guess who I saw at the Pune Mariott yesterday? Yes, the super gorgeous Natalie Portman looking absolutely ravishing in a simple white tshirt and tiny brown shorts.
Maybe, just maybe, she was someone else... but how does it matter? :)
Maybe, just maybe, she was someone else... but how does it matter? :)
Sunday, October 09, 2011
Tablet for 1250?
The Indian Govt recently announced the launch of Aakash, the 2500 Rs tablet that will be made available for students at half that price. Sounds too good to be true... but what are the implications?
Will students use it for studies, or will they watch porn on it?
Will students in the villages and small towns be able to get connectivity? Electricity?
It's a fantastic product, I am sure, I just hope it's not too good to be true!
Will students use it for studies, or will they watch porn on it?
Will students in the villages and small towns be able to get connectivity? Electricity?
It's a fantastic product, I am sure, I just hope it's not too good to be true!
Anna vs Congress?
It's open now - it's no longer Anna vs Corruption, it's Anna vs the Congress. He admitted recently that neither he nor the PM was kept properly informed during the fast, and that ego got in the way of sensible negotiations and dialogue with his team. Will he also admit soon that he allowed his anti-corruption agenda to be hijacked?
Movie Review: Love, Breakups, Zindagi
LBZ is predictable from the first 2 mins, it doesn't have a big star cast, it doesn't have item songs, it doesn't have anything that sets it apart from dozens of other similar movies where the boy and girl realise their current choice of partners isn't right, sparks fly between them at a marriage fucntion, there's a brief separation, and then it all comes together in the end.
However, the dialogues are fun, the humour subtle, the performances natural, the casting perfect, and the movie, although at a slow and relaxed pace, does grow on you.
Dia looks beautiful, a dainty daisy. I have always liked Zayed, he looks good, and puts a convincing performance. Tisca carries on her performance from DTBHJ, Boman makes a quick cameo, Ritesh also drops by, SRK enthralls in a short, sweet role as himself, Satyadeep and Auritra Ghosh make an interesting and pretty couple, and Umang Jain is cute as Dia's friend and roomie.
Slow, but worth a dekko.
However, the dialogues are fun, the humour subtle, the performances natural, the casting perfect, and the movie, although at a slow and relaxed pace, does grow on you.
Dia looks beautiful, a dainty daisy. I have always liked Zayed, he looks good, and puts a convincing performance. Tisca carries on her performance from DTBHJ, Boman makes a quick cameo, Ritesh also drops by, SRK enthralls in a short, sweet role as himself, Satyadeep and Auritra Ghosh make an interesting and pretty couple, and Umang Jain is cute as Dia's friend and roomie.
Slow, but worth a dekko.
iMovation
The Sunday Economic Times has an interesting article today about Imovation - the process of imitating innovation and being successful at it. Do you know that Apple has not presented a single original product to the market? The computer was invented by IBM, Sanyo created the first MP3 player, Blackberry the first smartphone, and Microsoft invented the Tablet. Yet, none of these created as much hype and excitement until Apple added the "i" to them! Jobs wasn't the only one to be imovative. Walmart made discount stores famous, but the idea first came from a little-heard company called Korvette. A burger today means MacD, but it was first presented by White Castle. Similarly, Amex made credit cards a household name, but not before Diner's Club had come to market with it. And we all know about IPL vs ICL here in India.
Imovators have one major advantage - they already have the benefit of the R&D, market research, and all the hard work the innovator has put in. All you got to do now is improve on it!
Imovators have one major advantage - they already have the benefit of the R&D, market research, and all the hard work the innovator has put in. All you got to do now is improve on it!
Thursday, October 06, 2011
Movie Review: Saheb, Biwi Aur Gangster
Some films work because of their stars, some films are all about the suspense or the story line, some films are about an item song!
Saheb, Biwi Aur Gangster is a must watch for many reasons - first and foremost, the journey into the world of royal scions and bloodlines, politics and gangsters, sepia-toned walls, antiques and stained windows, royal palaces, once glorious and majestic, now abused by time and neglect. Even though he's penniless and lives on the alms insultingly offered by his rich stepmother, the Saheb (Jimmy) hasn't lost any of his arrogance, ruthlessly deploying his own version of justice and law to grab government contracts and attempt to come to power in the forthcoming elections. His mentally imbalanced wife (Mahie) is royalty personified, although she has very little to look forward to in her lonely life, until their new "driver" (Randeep) shows up. As the web of intrigue, deceit and double-cross gets thicker in a deadly game of one-up-manship and envelopes the mansion and it's occupants, the movie hurtles towards a gripping climax.
The performances are top-notch. Jimmy Sheirgill, Mahie Gill and Randeep Hooda are stunning in their volatility and unpredictability, their characters beautifully developed. Jimmy is superb as the Saheb, his calm and composed demeanour hiding the deadly venom inside him. Mahie is pretty and sexy, scary in her vulnerability, shocking in her ability to strike with deadly effect. And Randeep Hooda, as always, is the best - absolutely beautiful as the small town lad desperate to get his "class", no matter what it takes, a complete "maukaterian". Deepal Shaw is cute, and adds to the movie in her own small way. The rest of the characters - Jimmy's trusted Kanhaiyya, his mistress - always aware of his dependencies on her, the minister - ready to play any game with anyone to save his khursi, deliver the perfect punch to an already wonderful cast.
SBAG is a wonderful action thriller woven around a gripping character drama. It's not your typical Karan Johar served dish of colorful fresh cut fruits with a glass of orange juice, it's a fantastic dark concoction that will drug you, and leave you begging for more.
Saheb, Biwi Aur Gangster is a must watch for many reasons - first and foremost, the journey into the world of royal scions and bloodlines, politics and gangsters, sepia-toned walls, antiques and stained windows, royal palaces, once glorious and majestic, now abused by time and neglect. Even though he's penniless and lives on the alms insultingly offered by his rich stepmother, the Saheb (Jimmy) hasn't lost any of his arrogance, ruthlessly deploying his own version of justice and law to grab government contracts and attempt to come to power in the forthcoming elections. His mentally imbalanced wife (Mahie) is royalty personified, although she has very little to look forward to in her lonely life, until their new "driver" (Randeep) shows up. As the web of intrigue, deceit and double-cross gets thicker in a deadly game of one-up-manship and envelopes the mansion and it's occupants, the movie hurtles towards a gripping climax.
The performances are top-notch. Jimmy Sheirgill, Mahie Gill and Randeep Hooda are stunning in their volatility and unpredictability, their characters beautifully developed. Jimmy is superb as the Saheb, his calm and composed demeanour hiding the deadly venom inside him. Mahie is pretty and sexy, scary in her vulnerability, shocking in her ability to strike with deadly effect. And Randeep Hooda, as always, is the best - absolutely beautiful as the small town lad desperate to get his "class", no matter what it takes, a complete "maukaterian". Deepal Shaw is cute, and adds to the movie in her own small way. The rest of the characters - Jimmy's trusted Kanhaiyya, his mistress - always aware of his dependencies on her, the minister - ready to play any game with anyone to save his khursi, deliver the perfect punch to an already wonderful cast.
SBAG is a wonderful action thriller woven around a gripping character drama. It's not your typical Karan Johar served dish of colorful fresh cut fruits with a glass of orange juice, it's a fantastic dark concoction that will drug you, and leave you begging for more.
Saturday, October 01, 2011
Movie Review: Force
It's the Narcotics Control Bureau against the drug lords. John plays an honest, fearless NCB officer relentless in his mission to rid Mumbai of drugs, whose weakness is exposed when he falls in love with the kiddish, cute Genelia.
The action is good, a lot of hand to hand combat, but gets unnecessarily gruesome and bloody at the end.
The sound track is forgettable.
John looks good, like he always does, except when he comes up with Rohit Shettyesque tattoos in the begginning of the movie - and thankfully loses them after some time. If only he could bring some more expressions on his stubble... Genelia is a little artificial and uncomfortable at times, but in most scenes, she's graceful, pretty, super cute and will endear herself to you. The new boy, Vidjut, as the villain, didn't impress me much. Anaitha Nair is completely wasted, Sandhya Mridul has few decent moments.
Unlike Singham which left your thrilled, happy and wanting more, Force drains you with the deaths, the blood, the helplessness of it all.
Expected better from Nishikant Kamat after the fabulous Mumbai Meri Jaan!
The action is good, a lot of hand to hand combat, but gets unnecessarily gruesome and bloody at the end.
The sound track is forgettable.
John looks good, like he always does, except when he comes up with Rohit Shettyesque tattoos in the begginning of the movie - and thankfully loses them after some time. If only he could bring some more expressions on his stubble... Genelia is a little artificial and uncomfortable at times, but in most scenes, she's graceful, pretty, super cute and will endear herself to you. The new boy, Vidjut, as the villain, didn't impress me much. Anaitha Nair is completely wasted, Sandhya Mridul has few decent moments.
Unlike Singham which left your thrilled, happy and wanting more, Force drains you with the deaths, the blood, the helplessness of it all.
Expected better from Nishikant Kamat after the fabulous Mumbai Meri Jaan!
Sunday, September 25, 2011
National Anthem in Theatres
For many years now, Indian theatres play the national anthem before the start of every movie show. And for me, this has been one of the best parts of going to the theatres... standing up with the crowd, singing it together, watching the flag fluttering proudly on the screen. E-Square has this wonderful instrumental anthem picturized on our brave soldiers in the Siachen Glacier, and seeing them hoisting the flag on the towering pole in the midst of the swirling icy winds with the chopper flying overhead always tingles my spine.
Yesterday, for the first time in hundreds of shows I have gone to, we encountered a guy who sat through the anthem, inspite of being requested by me, and others, to stand up. His girl friend stood up on request, but the asshole (sorry, but that's what he was) refused. Jerks like him will always exist, I guess, but what was heart-warming and assuring was the support I got from dozens of teenagers, both guys and girls, in the theatre - it's beautiful that so many young Indians truly love and respect the flag, the country, the sentiments associated with the anthem. They didn't have a who cares attitude, they voiced their anger and indignation... and made sure the guy had no place to hide his face in shame.
Yesterday, for the first time in hundreds of shows I have gone to, we encountered a guy who sat through the anthem, inspite of being requested by me, and others, to stand up. His girl friend stood up on request, but the asshole (sorry, but that's what he was) refused. Jerks like him will always exist, I guess, but what was heart-warming and assuring was the support I got from dozens of teenagers, both guys and girls, in the theatre - it's beautiful that so many young Indians truly love and respect the flag, the country, the sentiments associated with the anthem. They didn't have a who cares attitude, they voiced their anger and indignation... and made sure the guy had no place to hide his face in shame.
Movie Review: Johnny English Reborn
Mr Bean meets James Bond. And what you get is some hilarious moments, fast action, super gadgets and loads of laugh-filled entertainment. Called back from his Tibetan monastery to help MI7 (yes, 7) foil a plot to assassinate the Chinese PM, will Johnny English be able to put his hard-learnt lessons from Tibet to use against the determined international assassins?
A must-watch this weekend... Rowan Atkinson at his very best!
A must-watch this weekend... Rowan Atkinson at his very best!
Movie Review: Mausam
Shahid is a happy-go-lucky Punjabi lad in a small village Mallukot, waiting for his acceptance into the Indian Air Force. Sonam is a displaced Kashmiri girl, naughty and shy, who lands up in Mallukot with her bua. And there starts a decade long saga of war, communal tensions and riots, each conspiring to keep the shy lovers away from each other. Across cities, countries and continents, and years, love survives, but will it be too much to cope with in the end?
The first half is beautiful, the cinematography and camera work brings the Punjabi countryside and village life beautifully into the theatres.. the dialogues, the jokes, the ganne-ke-khet, the dusty bylanes of Mallukot, the rain-drenched terraces... simply mesmerizing. Shahid looks great, and Sonal, as always is prettiness defined.
In the second half, though, Pankaj Kapoor completely loses it. The lovers' misses start becoming contrived, the reasons illogical. The change of scenery becomes too fast, too quick. And the last 30 mins goes way into the B grade movies of yesteryears... Shahid rescuing a crying kid beside her dead mother from the top of a stuck ferris wheel with his one paralyzed hand, while riots rage below... a completely irrlevant and ridiculous rescue of a white horse...
Cut 45 min, cut the ending, and Mausam would have been a beautiful movie! What do I suggest? Go watch it till half time - and then you are free to leave.
The first half is beautiful, the cinematography and camera work brings the Punjabi countryside and village life beautifully into the theatres.. the dialogues, the jokes, the ganne-ke-khet, the dusty bylanes of Mallukot, the rain-drenched terraces... simply mesmerizing. Shahid looks great, and Sonal, as always is prettiness defined.
In the second half, though, Pankaj Kapoor completely loses it. The lovers' misses start becoming contrived, the reasons illogical. The change of scenery becomes too fast, too quick. And the last 30 mins goes way into the B grade movies of yesteryears... Shahid rescuing a crying kid beside her dead mother from the top of a stuck ferris wheel with his one paralyzed hand, while riots rage below... a completely irrlevant and ridiculous rescue of a white horse...
Cut 45 min, cut the ending, and Mausam would have been a beautiful movie! What do I suggest? Go watch it till half time - and then you are free to leave.
Movie Review: Abduction
Nathan (Taylor Lautner, better known as the wolf boy from Twilight!) is a typical American teen, his life full of shirtless wild parties by the pool, surrounded by 18 year olds in bikinis and testosterone-driven beer guzzling boys, and a father who loves bashing the hangovers out of him, while his mother smothers him with kisses. While researching on missing kids for a school sociology project with his next-door high school love interest Karen (Lily Collins), he is stunned by a photo of a boy that looks suspiciously like him – he even has the same t-shirt he was wearing in the photo! Is he really who he has been raised up as, or is there a more sinister story to his life?
When his "parents" are killed and his home bombed, he is propelled from his poolside world into a high-action life full of CIA agents, snipers, Serbian gangsters, espionage, bombs and car chases, where "trust needs to be earned"...
Nathan looks better as a wolf, Lily provides some eye candy, the action is good, the BMWs even better, and the story, although a little contrived and unbelievable, keeps you engaged.
Watch it, it's good entertainment.
When his "parents" are killed and his home bombed, he is propelled from his poolside world into a high-action life full of CIA agents, snipers, Serbian gangsters, espionage, bombs and car chases, where "trust needs to be earned"...
Nathan looks better as a wolf, Lily provides some eye candy, the action is good, the BMWs even better, and the story, although a little contrived and unbelievable, keeps you engaged.
Watch it, it's good entertainment.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Movie Review: Fair Game
Based on the real life story of ex-CIA agent Valeria Plame, Fair Game is a riveting political drama that exposes the games played in the corridors of power in the world's most powerful nation. When Val's husband exposes the lies in the President's State of the Union address regarding Saddam's efforts to buy weapons grade uranium from Niger, based on which the US went to war against Iraq, the White House strikes back by exposing Val's role as a covert CIA operative, putting to risk dozens of her field operatives and missions at risk, and bringing her marriage to a breaking point.
Naomi Watts as Val is excellent, while Sean Penn puts in a convincing performance as her husband.
Worth every bit of the 108 min running time!
Naomi Watts as Val is excellent, while Sean Penn puts in a convincing performance as her husband.
Worth every bit of the 108 min running time!
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
My Presentation at the CII Conclave
Visit http://www.slideshare.net/siddhesh_bhobe/redefining-employee-engagement for the presentation I used at the CII HR & IR Conclave today. Would love to hear your feedback!
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Movie Review: Hanna
There are movies, and then there are movies. The type that stay with you for ever...
Hanna, at least for me, is the second type.
Brought up in the European wilderness near the Arctic circle, Hanna's upbringing by her dad, an ex-CIA agent, has prepared her to be the ultimate fighter and survivor. Barely into adolescence, she journeys across Europe on a mission, fighting for survival against the CIA's rouge agents determined to stop her. As she approaches her final destination, she's confronted with the shocking truth about herself and her dad...
The movie has one of the best action scenes I have enjoyed, foot chase sequences and hand to hand combat combined with a soundtrack that will get your adrenalin pumping like never before. It's fast and gripping and wonderfully shot and executed.
Saoirse Ronan is awesome as Hanna. She's pretty, her innocent looks and unsure gait in the big bad world makes you fall in love with her and makes you want to hold her and protect her, until she suddenly unleashes her energy like a recoiled spring. She's cute, she's demure, her long blonde hair unkempt and free, her jeans and sweatshirt lose and comfortable like she's just woken up from her Sunday slumber... but she's focused, she's fit, and she will stun you with her reflexes and her speed, the way her body moves, as she runs away from the bad guys chasing her.
Stunning film, dying to catch it in the theatres... don't miss it for anything!
Hanna, at least for me, is the second type.
Brought up in the European wilderness near the Arctic circle, Hanna's upbringing by her dad, an ex-CIA agent, has prepared her to be the ultimate fighter and survivor. Barely into adolescence, she journeys across Europe on a mission, fighting for survival against the CIA's rouge agents determined to stop her. As she approaches her final destination, she's confronted with the shocking truth about herself and her dad...
The movie has one of the best action scenes I have enjoyed, foot chase sequences and hand to hand combat combined with a soundtrack that will get your adrenalin pumping like never before. It's fast and gripping and wonderfully shot and executed.
Saoirse Ronan is awesome as Hanna. She's pretty, her innocent looks and unsure gait in the big bad world makes you fall in love with her and makes you want to hold her and protect her, until she suddenly unleashes her energy like a recoiled spring. She's cute, she's demure, her long blonde hair unkempt and free, her jeans and sweatshirt lose and comfortable like she's just woken up from her Sunday slumber... but she's focused, she's fit, and she will stun you with her reflexes and her speed, the way her body moves, as she runs away from the bad guys chasing her.
Stunning film, dying to catch it in the theatres... don't miss it for anything!
Movie Review: Crazy, Stupid, Love
Cal (Steve Carell) faces the mother of all midlife crises when he finds out his pretty wife Emily (Julianne Moore) has been cheating on him with the guy in her office, and wants a divorce. That's when the irresistible womanizer Jacob (Ryan Gosling) takes him under his wings, and promises to teach him the tricks of his trade. Cal gets on the train, including a wild first encounter with his son's English teacher. Meanwhile his 13 year old son falls for his 17 year old baby-sitter, who in turn has a major crush on Cal. Life gets further complicated when the debonair Jacob falls in love with his beautiful daughter (Emma Stone).
With a lot of (adult) com and some eye candy (especially for the ladies), CSL is definitely recommended this weekend.
With a lot of (adult) com and some eye candy (especially for the ladies), CSL is definitely recommended this weekend.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Movie Review: Mere Brother Ki Dulhan
With MBKD, YRF takes a very predictable story, and executes it in a very predictable manner - the usual twists and turns, the first half full of fun, the second half getting just a little complicated, with a happy ending.
But if you are a Katrina fan, this is heaven. Kat shines in every scene, she's sexy, she's sweet, she's cute, she's bubbly, she absolutely grows on you and makes you fall in love with her. Her look in "Dhunki Lagi" will blow you away, and when she slurps her curd, you will wish you were born as milk. If you are not a Kat fan, you are 2.5 hours away from being one!
Imran is good, very understated, very "regular", a role that's perfect for him (although it's the same Imran we have seen half a dozen times before). Zafar Ali is good too, and very commendable that he's the dialogue writer and director too! Farhan, a growing speck in the rearview mirror? The surprise package is Tara D'Souza, she's pretty stunning even when she shares the stage with Kat, and that's very commendable!
The music is interesting, pretty different from what we have heard recently. And some of the songs will grow on you... The soundtrack in general is pretty good!
Do check it out!
But if you are a Katrina fan, this is heaven. Kat shines in every scene, she's sexy, she's sweet, she's cute, she's bubbly, she absolutely grows on you and makes you fall in love with her. Her look in "Dhunki Lagi" will blow you away, and when she slurps her curd, you will wish you were born as milk. If you are not a Kat fan, you are 2.5 hours away from being one!
Imran is good, very understated, very "regular", a role that's perfect for him (although it's the same Imran we have seen half a dozen times before). Zafar Ali is good too, and very commendable that he's the dialogue writer and director too! Farhan, a growing speck in the rearview mirror? The surprise package is Tara D'Souza, she's pretty stunning even when she shares the stage with Kat, and that's very commendable!
The music is interesting, pretty different from what we have heard recently. And some of the songs will grow on you... The soundtrack in general is pretty good!
Do check it out!
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1
Just got a Samsung Galaxy 10.1 tab - no, not mine - got it from office for eMee demos :)
First impressions - not impressed. Yes, there's the marketplace with too amny applications for download... and the touch and feel is fine. But it's too heavy and cumbersome. And it's having problems running Flash, while Silverlight is a no no. HTML5 seems OK, but need to really stress it out before I can be sure.
It has a USB connector, but the position and structure makes me sure I am gonna break it soon.
And a case is sorely missed. I will need to buy one, but given the fragile structure of the tab, it's almost criminal not to bundle one.
Overall, I am happy with my Windows Mobile 7 phone, will be some time before I "convert".
First impressions - not impressed. Yes, there's the marketplace with too amny applications for download... and the touch and feel is fine. But it's too heavy and cumbersome. And it's having problems running Flash, while Silverlight is a no no. HTML5 seems OK, but need to really stress it out before I can be sure.
It has a USB connector, but the position and structure makes me sure I am gonna break it soon.
And a case is sorely missed. I will need to buy one, but given the fragile structure of the tab, it's almost criminal not to bundle one.
Overall, I am happy with my Windows Mobile 7 phone, will be some time before I "convert".
Movie Review: Assassination Games
Two assassins are after a dreaded drug dealer - one for the money, one for revenge. With crooked Interpol agents and the underworld on their hunt, the two reluctantly join forces to take out their target, before they get taken out themselves.
Some hard core hand to hand combat, a lot of graphic violence, and a sepia toned feel, the movie is pretty gripping, if you can live with the cut throats.
Saw it on DVD, might be a treat in a theatre for the right-minded!
Some hard core hand to hand combat, a lot of graphic violence, and a sepia toned feel, the movie is pretty gripping, if you can live with the cut throats.
Saw it on DVD, might be a treat in a theatre for the right-minded!
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Nano PCR
Here's a cute little PCR "van" being contemplated for use by the Mumbai Police, as a replacement for the police mobikes...
Me thinks this is a great idea!
Me thinks this is a great idea!
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Movie Review: Lions For Lambs
Interesting movie... revolving around 3 scenes, 3 conversations. A Professor (Robert Redford) trying to goad one of his "brat" students to realise his potential and join the US Army. A Congressman (Tom Cruise) talking a journalist (Meryl Streep) into supporting his latest strategy for a win in Afghanistan. And two of the Professor's former students fighting a losing battle for survival in the cold reaches of an Afghan hilltop.
A good movie, but somehow, left me wanting more..
A good movie, but somehow, left me wanting more..
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Bhartiya Anna Party?
TOI reports that Kiran Bedi wants Team Anna to support Advani's new Rath Yatra. Really? Is this where all that civil society against politicians activism is coming down to? Ms Bedi, RS seat in your sights?
10 Years of 9/11
In My Name is Khan, Rizwan Khan points out that there is a now an additional way in which we partition time 9/11. The world changed completely after that fateful day in which almost 3000 people died in the terrible attacks on America.
I was in Goa, my wife pregnant with Sanam, and we had all met for a party at home... it was early night... when the shocking images were playing out live on TV. My cousin working in the WTC area had had a narrow escape, which was a relief. But we were still coming to terms with how the world's superpower had been brought down to its knees. Next morning, I drove back to Pune... and a few weeks later, my daughter was born. In a world very different from the one in which she was conceived.
Today, America is a much more secure place... and no terror attacks have taken place since... but the billions of dollars spent on internal security, and the trillions spent in the war on terror have crippled the economy. The country is paranoid, privacy rights are severely compromised, and after all that... one small mistake, one incident, and it will all come crashing down.
Iraq and "Afghanistan" have been "liberated" but dozens still die, Pakistan suffers the scourge of terror almost on a daily basis. India also continues to face terror, and while things are much better after 26/11, more needs to be and can be done.
But one thing is sure. Terror no longer has a purpose. People have been numbed, and just like other random acts of violence that have a shelf life of 2 days in the local newspapers, a similar fate befalls any terror attack. People do not sympathize with the terrorists any more. While outfits like the Khalistanis, the Palestinians and the LTTE had a mission, and sympathizers to their "cause", whether their methods were right or wrong, terror attacks today have a single goal - destruction of peace and human rights every where, and it is exactly this reason why they will never succeed. Because the human spirit will never be defeated.
I was in Goa, my wife pregnant with Sanam, and we had all met for a party at home... it was early night... when the shocking images were playing out live on TV. My cousin working in the WTC area had had a narrow escape, which was a relief. But we were still coming to terms with how the world's superpower had been brought down to its knees. Next morning, I drove back to Pune... and a few weeks later, my daughter was born. In a world very different from the one in which she was conceived.
Today, America is a much more secure place... and no terror attacks have taken place since... but the billions of dollars spent on internal security, and the trillions spent in the war on terror have crippled the economy. The country is paranoid, privacy rights are severely compromised, and after all that... one small mistake, one incident, and it will all come crashing down.
Iraq and "Afghanistan" have been "liberated" but dozens still die, Pakistan suffers the scourge of terror almost on a daily basis. India also continues to face terror, and while things are much better after 26/11, more needs to be and can be done.
But one thing is sure. Terror no longer has a purpose. People have been numbed, and just like other random acts of violence that have a shelf life of 2 days in the local newspapers, a similar fate befalls any terror attack. People do not sympathize with the terrorists any more. While outfits like the Khalistanis, the Palestinians and the LTTE had a mission, and sympathizers to their "cause", whether their methods were right or wrong, terror attacks today have a single goal - destruction of peace and human rights every where, and it is exactly this reason why they will never succeed. Because the human spirit will never be defeated.
Movie Review: Friends With Benefits
Mila Kunis looks great, fresh and sexy. I didn't get a good look at the guy, sorry. Lots of skin, but the censors seem to have been in a really sadistic mood.... promises a lot, delivers very little. Dialogue is witty, but the movie is predictable, and doesn't stay with you for long.
Avoidable.
Avoidable.
Cat Prayer
Now I lay me down to sleep,
I pray this cushy life to keep.
I pray for toys that look like mice,
And sofa cushions, soft and nice.
I pray for gourmet kitty snacks,
And someone nice to scratch my back,
For window sills all warm and bright,
For shadows to explore at night.
I pray I'll always stay real cool
And keep the secret feline rule
To NEVER tell a human that
The world is really ruled by CATS!
I pray this cushy life to keep.
I pray for toys that look like mice,
And sofa cushions, soft and nice.
I pray for gourmet kitty snacks,
And someone nice to scratch my back,
For window sills all warm and bright,
For shadows to explore at night.
I pray I'll always stay real cool
And keep the secret feline rule
To NEVER tell a human that
The world is really ruled by CATS!
How To Clean A Cat
1.Thoroughly clean the toilet.
2.Add the required amount of shampoo to the toilet water, and have both lids lifted.
3.Obtain the cat and soothe him while you carry him towards the bathroom.
4.In one smooth movement, put the cat in the toilet and close both lids.
Note: You may need to stand on the lid so that he cannot escape.
CAUTION: Do not get any part of your body too close to the edge, as his paws will be reaching out for any surface they can find.
5.Flush the toilet three or four times. This provides a "power wash and rinse" which I have found to be quite effective.
6.Have someone to open the door to the outside and ensure that there are no people between the toilet and the outside door.
7.Stand behind the toilet as far as you can, and quickly lift both lids.
8.The now-clean cat will rocket out of the toilet, and run outside where he will dry himself.
Sincerely,
the Dog
2.Add the required amount of shampoo to the toilet water, and have both lids lifted.
3.Obtain the cat and soothe him while you carry him towards the bathroom.
4.In one smooth movement, put the cat in the toilet and close both lids.
Note: You may need to stand on the lid so that he cannot escape.
CAUTION: Do not get any part of your body too close to the edge, as his paws will be reaching out for any surface they can find.
5.Flush the toilet three or four times. This provides a "power wash and rinse" which I have found to be quite effective.
6.Have someone to open the door to the outside and ensure that there are no people between the toilet and the outside door.
7.Stand behind the toilet as far as you can, and quickly lift both lids.
8.The now-clean cat will rocket out of the toilet, and run outside where he will dry himself.
Sincerely,
the Dog
Catonama
"There is no snooze button on a cat who wants breakfast."
"Thousands of years ago, cats were worshipped as gods. Cats have never forgotten this."
"In a cat's eye, all things belong to cats."
"As every cat owner knows, nobody owns a cat."
"Dogs come when they're called; cats take a message and get back to you later."
"People that hate cats, will come back as mice in their next life."
"There are many intelligent species in the universe. They are all owned by cats."
"Thousands of years ago, cats were worshipped as gods. Cats have never forgotten this."
"In a cat's eye, all things belong to cats."
"As every cat owner knows, nobody owns a cat."
"Dogs come when they're called; cats take a message and get back to you later."
"People that hate cats, will come back as mice in their next life."
"There are many intelligent species in the universe. They are all owned by cats."
International Cat Day
Today, my daughter and I are celebrating International Cat Day... so here's a joke to get started:
A man absolutely hated his wife's cat and decided to get rid of him one day by driving him 20 blocks from his home and leaving him at the park. As he arrived home, the cat was walking up the driveway. The next day he decided to drive the cat 40 blocks away. He put the beast out and headed home. Driving back up his driveway, there was the cat! He kept taking the cat further and further, and the cat would always beat him home.
At last he decided to drive a few miles away, turn right, then left, past the bridge, then right again and another right until he reached what he thought was a safe distance from his home and left the cat there.
Hours later the man calls home to his wife: "Jen, is the cat there?" "Yes", the wife answers, "why do you ask?" Frustrated, the man answered, "Put the little thing on the phone, I'm lost and need directions."
A man absolutely hated his wife's cat and decided to get rid of him one day by driving him 20 blocks from his home and leaving him at the park. As he arrived home, the cat was walking up the driveway. The next day he decided to drive the cat 40 blocks away. He put the beast out and headed home. Driving back up his driveway, there was the cat! He kept taking the cat further and further, and the cat would always beat him home.
At last he decided to drive a few miles away, turn right, then left, past the bridge, then right again and another right until he reached what he thought was a safe distance from his home and left the cat there.
Hours later the man calls home to his wife: "Jen, is the cat there?" "Yes", the wife answers, "why do you ask?" Frustrated, the man answered, "Put the little thing on the phone, I'm lost and need directions."
Movie Review: Blitz
Jason Statham is a hot-headed officer trying to stop a serial cop killer in London. The story is gripping, but the movie feels sluggish as the end nears, and with Statham, one expects a lot more adrenalin pumping action and less talk. Blitz promises, but doesn't deliver.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Whitewash
What's wrong with Team India? :( From deserving No 1, the slide has been almost unbelievable. Fatigue, injuries, or simply bad luck? Just hope this series ends quickly, and the team can pick up again and regain the lost glory...
Until then, Mahi and boys, I am with you!
Until then, Mahi and boys, I am with you!
Friday, September 09, 2011
Movie Review: Hurt Locker
Another long-pending movie, finally caught up with it on DVD last night.
An excellent cast, great screen play and fantastic camera work make Hurt Locker an absorbing movie, although it feels more like a documentary with an Iraq-based theme and no story line. A tad too long too. A slightly edited version, revolving around a bomb disposal team with a mission, rather than a series of unconnected and unrelated events, would have added tremendously to the appeal.
For die hard war movie fans, this is a must see, though.
An excellent cast, great screen play and fantastic camera work make Hurt Locker an absorbing movie, although it feels more like a documentary with an Iraq-based theme and no story line. A tad too long too. A slightly edited version, revolving around a bomb disposal team with a mission, rather than a series of unconnected and unrelated events, would have added tremendously to the appeal.
For die hard war movie fans, this is a must see, though.
Movie Review: Bodyguard
OK, here is one movie even die-hard Salman fans, used to the generous dishing out of slap stick humour and tapori dance moves, will find hard to digest.
What's good:
An innovative "attack by helicopter" that will awe you with its brilliant conceptualization
Some of the other combat action
A very attractive side-kick to Kareena, Rose Dawn (previously Hazel Keech)
Kareena in a few shots
Salman in fewer shots
What's not:
The tev tev ring tone that has a bigger role to play than the background score put together, especially since it is accompanied by Salman getting a zhatka in his butt
The worst's grossest man boobs on Salman's side kick, "innovatively" named Tsunami Singh
The large ostrich eggs in Salman's arm pits which makes him walk like a robot with his arms splayed out at the side
Katrina in her worst item number to date with the stupidest dance moves ever - how does showing off biceps by a girl in a bra work for you as a turn on?
And the dialogues - here's a sample: Cool? You think I am a fool? In nursery school?
Shuld you watch it? Sure - people do all sorts of stupid things! Go ahead!
What's good:
An innovative "attack by helicopter" that will awe you with its brilliant conceptualization
Some of the other combat action
A very attractive side-kick to Kareena, Rose Dawn (previously Hazel Keech)
Kareena in a few shots
Salman in fewer shots
What's not:
The tev tev ring tone that has a bigger role to play than the background score put together, especially since it is accompanied by Salman getting a zhatka in his butt
The worst's grossest man boobs on Salman's side kick, "innovatively" named Tsunami Singh
The large ostrich eggs in Salman's arm pits which makes him walk like a robot with his arms splayed out at the side
Katrina in her worst item number to date with the stupidest dance moves ever - how does showing off biceps by a girl in a bra work for you as a turn on?
And the dialogues - here's a sample: Cool? You think I am a fool? In nursery school?
Shuld you watch it? Sure - people do all sorts of stupid things! Go ahead!
Thursday, September 08, 2011
Movie Review: Fast Five
Missed the 5th installment of the Fast and Furious franchise (which is over a decade old now) in the theatres, but had the pleasure of catching the BluRay extended version last night. Absolutely the best of the lot, FF also has a well developed play on the characters themselves, their growth and maturity through the series. O'Connor morphs into a true-blood criminal after his chequered past as a cop, while preparing to be a dad. Dom grows in stature as the father of the gang, and his developing bond with O'Connor is very well handled. It's also a treat to see all the key characters from the past coming together again to plan the heist of the century. Gal Gadot looks stunning as ever, tall, slim and very pretty!
But the real treat is in the super high voltage action, the train sequence at the beginning truly brilliantly done. While the stunts get a little unbelievable towards the end, it's well done and adds plenty to the excitement.
The best part was the extra stuff on the BR, including the interviews and the "making" of the movie.
Do watch it if you haven't... it's high RPM action out and out!
But the real treat is in the super high voltage action, the train sequence at the beginning truly brilliantly done. While the stunts get a little unbelievable towards the end, it's well done and adds plenty to the excitement.
The best part was the extra stuff on the BR, including the interviews and the "making" of the movie.
Do watch it if you haven't... it's high RPM action out and out!
Monday, September 05, 2011
Chaturthi
Chaturthi is big in Goa - a lot bigger than Diwali. This year heavy rains kept lashing the state, but did little to dampen the festive season. There's something very beautiful about the whole thing.. the 3 days of veg food - always the same varan bhaat, batatachi bhaaji, patoli - and then the youngsters trying to bring in some modern menu items like gobi manchurian, to the shock and delight of everyone... the non-stop devotional CDs playing all around you from 5:00 am add tremendously to the atmosphere. All the cousins and kids miling around, visiting each other. Yes, we cannot do the Ritz party, and we cannot venture out much in the evenings, and have to be home for the aartis, but it's time to be with family, have joke sessions, antaksharis, tang and noodles at night.. lay kilometers of beddings and plop down like vehicles in a giant parking lot... tired... but not yet ready to retire for the night.. the stories of Chimulkar's ghost, now part of our family folklore, start making the rounds... and then it's morning, and yet another glorious day
Coming back to Pune today, had to rush to office for a little time, and there I was trying to work, with a Ganesh mandal close by playing aratis on a loud speaker, and I was instantly transported to Goa, to Nerul, to the last 3 beautiful days spent there... and "pudchya varshi lavkar ya" couldn't have been more apt!
We really need to do the 5 day Ganapati next year!
Coming back to Pune today, had to rush to office for a little time, and there I was trying to work, with a Ganesh mandal close by playing aratis on a loud speaker, and I was instantly transported to Goa, to Nerul, to the last 3 beautiful days spent there... and "pudchya varshi lavkar ya" couldn't have been more apt!
We really need to do the 5 day Ganapati next year!
Glory Of Rains In Konkan
 |
| Waterfalls at Amboli Ghat at their majestic best! |
 |
| The Aguada shoreline - and notice the "almost gone" River Princess in the background |
 |
| "Rain showers" in the Nerul aangan |
Sunday, September 04, 2011
Pune-Goa-Pune Again
Just back from an awesome Goa trip in the heavy Konkan rains...
We left early Wed morning, and when we pulled into Sai International for our much-awaited breakfast of tea and misal pav, I noticed a black Scorpio with Team BHP stickers on it. It was fellow BHPian Arun P, and after breakfast, we drove most of the way down to Goa together after running into each other again near Azara. Amboli, even at 11 in the morning, was cloaked in dense fog restricting visibility to less than 5 meters at times. The waterfalls dotting the ghat were in full glory, and we stopped for some pictures with the monkeys too. We loved the drive from Dandeli to Banda through the short cut, and Arun ensured he took a complete video of Samara navigating the twists, turns and pools.
Today, it was time to head back. And the drive was even more exciting. First, a quick drive through the flooded river on the shortcut. (Yes, we took a video and now I cannot find it on my camcorder!) Then, we got stuck for half an hour on the ghat due to a landslide, and had a happy walk up and down while the earthmover went about its job.
Was very clear why an SUV will always beat a Sedan in any road trip. While the sedans crawled and groaned their way through the frequent patches of potholes and non-existent tarmac, Samara simply glided over them leaving speechless sedan owners gawking in disbelief and the only trace of the SUV that had roared past was the spray of muddy brown water on their windshields!
Home by 500, and life's beautiful again! At least my cat thinks so! She can finally go back to snuggling against warm human bodies while the AC cranks up the chill!
We left early Wed morning, and when we pulled into Sai International for our much-awaited breakfast of tea and misal pav, I noticed a black Scorpio with Team BHP stickers on it. It was fellow BHPian Arun P, and after breakfast, we drove most of the way down to Goa together after running into each other again near Azara. Amboli, even at 11 in the morning, was cloaked in dense fog restricting visibility to less than 5 meters at times. The waterfalls dotting the ghat were in full glory, and we stopped for some pictures with the monkeys too. We loved the drive from Dandeli to Banda through the short cut, and Arun ensured he took a complete video of Samara navigating the twists, turns and pools.
Today, it was time to head back. And the drive was even more exciting. First, a quick drive through the flooded river on the shortcut. (Yes, we took a video and now I cannot find it on my camcorder!) Then, we got stuck for half an hour on the ghat due to a landslide, and had a happy walk up and down while the earthmover went about its job.
Was very clear why an SUV will always beat a Sedan in any road trip. While the sedans crawled and groaned their way through the frequent patches of potholes and non-existent tarmac, Samara simply glided over them leaving speechless sedan owners gawking in disbelief and the only trace of the SUV that had roared past was the spray of muddy brown water on their windshields!
Home by 500, and life's beautiful again! At least my cat thinks so! She can finally go back to snuggling against warm human bodies while the AC cranks up the chill!
Monday, August 29, 2011
Joke Of The Day
Rajnikant, when asked about Anna taking over the mantle of India's superhero: I always knew it, that's why I kept saying, "Anna Rascala, Mind It!"
Joke Of The Day
PM's latest letter to Anna: Aapne toh kuch khaaya hi nahin, toh BILL kis baat ka? :)
The Glory Of Indian Democracy
Anna has got his wish, his 12 day long fast is over, and the 1.2 Billion people of this country are celebrating - the Indian Parliament has passed a resolution showing intent to discuss the main tenets of Anna's Jan Lokpal Bill.
And while the campaign has been less than perfect, and while the methods have been debatable, and while some politicians have not exactly covered themselves in glory, if you watched even snippets of the Lokpal debate in Parliament this Saturday, you would have a lot of reasons to feel proud of our much-maligned politicians, who showed unbelievable restraint, maturity and decency in the face of some very rude comments and antics from some members of the Anna team, and got down to some serious debate, showed intent, and proved that when it comes down to the wire, the Parliament and the MPs are more than capable of taking charge of this country and doing something good. Yes, even as a couple of MPs, notably Lalu and Sharad Yadav, poked fun back at Team Anna, the debates were serious, the politics bipartisan, and the speeches impressive.
Kudos guys, you are worthy representatives of our people!
And while the campaign has been less than perfect, and while the methods have been debatable, and while some politicians have not exactly covered themselves in glory, if you watched even snippets of the Lokpal debate in Parliament this Saturday, you would have a lot of reasons to feel proud of our much-maligned politicians, who showed unbelievable restraint, maturity and decency in the face of some very rude comments and antics from some members of the Anna team, and got down to some serious debate, showed intent, and proved that when it comes down to the wire, the Parliament and the MPs are more than capable of taking charge of this country and doing something good. Yes, even as a couple of MPs, notably Lalu and Sharad Yadav, poked fun back at Team Anna, the debates were serious, the politics bipartisan, and the speeches impressive.
Kudos guys, you are worthy representatives of our people!
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Movie Review: Morya (Marathi)
Marathi movies have started growing on me over the last few years, and with every movie, I continue to be surprised and impressed at the quality being dished out! Avadhoot Gupte presents the ever-present threat of politics-driven communal tensions and riots against the backdrop of the Ganeshotsav celebrations coming up this week, beautifully building the story from the very true and noble intentions of two rival mandals to put their best Ganapati on show, and how they are manipulated and driven to go for each other's throats, until a "in the system" police officer shows them what really is.
A wonderful cast, excellent screenplay and beautiful performances from every single member make this a must watch movie!
A wonderful cast, excellent screenplay and beautiful performances from every single member make this a must watch movie!
Movie Review: Bad Teacher
After 5 mins of Chiktabrey, any movie would probably be worth it... but I think you will enjoy it nevertheless. Cameron Diaz in another Cameron Diaz role, some cute moments sprinkled with a little adult humour and a feel good ending, one of those countless fuzzy movies that don't stand out but are well worth the time.
Movie Review: Chiktabrey
I have walked out of many a movie, but this one took the cake. It took me all of 5 min to decide to walk out... OK, maybe it gets better (or worse), but when you see a whole bus load of amateurish C grade "actors" mouthing C grade dialogues and attempting to grab your attention with some wannabe X rated action, it really makes me wonder why cinemas would even give the movie the 1-2 shows it's running...
If anyone;s actually sat through it, do let me know if I should try again...
If anyone;s actually sat through it, do let me know if I should try again...
Friday, August 26, 2011
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Alter Ego?
I just came across this site siddhesh-k3g.blogpsot.com (notice the spelling blogpsot) and was surprised to find this huge site on Christianity and Gospels and Bible... any explanations???
Movie Review: Aarakshan
OBC reservations, capitation fees, commercialization of education... might seem not very relevant in today's timeline... (although just a few days back the Supreme Court issued a clarification on OBC reservations in institutions)... but Aarakshan takes a pretty unbiased, well rounded view of the problem and proceeds to suggest solutions.
Not pure entertainment, and immature in execution in some places... but an excellent cast and some good performances from Saif, Amitabh, Deepika and Manoj Bajpai make this not that bad an option if you aren't into blood and gore with Final Destination this week.
Not pure entertainment, and immature in execution in some places... but an excellent cast and some good performances from Saif, Amitabh, Deepika and Manoj Bajpai make this not that bad an option if you aren't into blood and gore with Final Destination this week.
Where Is This Headed?
9th day of Anna's fast... and the government, which till yesterday seemed to be ready to give in, has suddenly gone back to taking a rigid stand, almost daring Anna to go ahead with his fast as long as he wants.
Did Team Anna push the government too far? Seeing Prashant Bhushan and Kiran Bedi on the dias last night did very much give me the impression that they had started looking at themselves as being larger than the issue, supreme to the country, the parliament, and getting into a very rigid and no-compromise stand. Would it perhaps be a better idea to give some? Maybe. Maybe not!
Very interesting stage coming up - will Team Anna buckle, will Anna take a step back and secure his health for a bigger fight ahead, will he sacrifice his health and will it lead to a revolution that will consume the politicians, or will it all die down?
India has never rallied behind any issue (except cricket), without being driven by politicians or money. It's heartening to see the youth, the urban middle class - hitherto immune to politics and change - taking a very firm and active stand.
Very interesting days ahead... and irrespective of the immediate outcomes, one thing is certain. Corruption is firmly and definitely in the crosshairs...
Did Team Anna push the government too far? Seeing Prashant Bhushan and Kiran Bedi on the dias last night did very much give me the impression that they had started looking at themselves as being larger than the issue, supreme to the country, the parliament, and getting into a very rigid and no-compromise stand. Would it perhaps be a better idea to give some? Maybe. Maybe not!
Very interesting stage coming up - will Team Anna buckle, will Anna take a step back and secure his health for a bigger fight ahead, will he sacrifice his health and will it lead to a revolution that will consume the politicians, or will it all die down?
India has never rallied behind any issue (except cricket), without being driven by politicians or money. It's heartening to see the youth, the urban middle class - hitherto immune to politics and change - taking a very firm and active stand.
Very interesting days ahead... and irrespective of the immediate outcomes, one thing is certain. Corruption is firmly and definitely in the crosshairs...
Friday, August 12, 2011
Bad Days
The government is struggling to govern with land acquisition stirs, all the scams, and general unrest
Indian team has fallen to the wicked spell of Harry Potter
England is burning
And the world economy has gone to the dogs
Thankfully, the Sun will still rise tomorrow
Indian team has fallen to the wicked spell of Harry Potter
England is burning
And the world economy has gone to the dogs
Thankfully, the Sun will still rise tomorrow
Movie Review: Resident Evil Afterlife (3D)
Saw this on my sexy new Samsung Smart LED 55 inch 3D TV - and it was a truly mesmerizing experience. If the TV was that good, I can only imagine how the theatre experience will be! The action is made for 3D, the special effects take the definition of 3D to a whole new level. MIlla Jovovich looks better than she's ever done, the action is fast paced, and the story keeps you interested till the end.
Not to be missed!
Not to be missed!
Movie Review: Rise Of The Planet Of The Apes
Baby monkeys growing up in a human "family" and growling and chest-thumping apes attacking cops on the Golden Gate bridge - if either of those things excite you, go watch the movie. Wasn't too bad - but I wanted a lot more doomsday action - and felt cheated at the end when the humans made peace with the monkeys :)
The post-credits twist notwitstanding...
The post-credits twist notwitstanding...
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