Movie review: Bombay Talkies

You walk in expecting something monumental and unforgettable, given the fulsome praise being showered upon the movie by critics. This four part ode to cinema by four of the hottest directors today left me strangely disappointed though...

The first story by Karan Jahar is very unlike his usual fluffy romance stories, and has some funny bits with Saqib Saleem’s act getting a few chuckles. All three protagonists try very hard, but the overall result is average. “Film Star” by Dibakar Banerjee is Nawazuddin Siddiqui all the way, and as usual he is brilliant. An engaging story of a common Mumbaikar and his daily struggles, and how he finds joy for himself as well as his family from a single unexpected incident. Enjoyed this one.

Zoya Akhtar brings us the message of never giving up on your dreams. The good part about this was the wonderful relationship portrayed between the kids; however the whole premise of trying to overcome conventions laid down by strict parents is a little overdone in films anyway. Still, not bad. The last story by Anurag Kashyap revolves around small town North India and its fascination with Big B, and a well-travelled jar of murabba. Interesting storyline, some good acting, but could have been edited better.

Overall, strictly a one-time watch. Some good shots of ordinarly life in Mumbai; a common thread of love for cinema/theatre running through the four stories; a couple of strong performances. But not as great as Anupama Chopra would have you believe.

Hail the Dark Knight

When I saw Batman Begins some time back, I had an idea that Christian Bale was really a better Batman than any of his predecessors. The Dark Knight underscores that fact. Christian Bale is, simply, the Batman. The man says more with his intense eyes and brooding looks than poor George Clooney could ever dream of saying in the entire movie (now that was a classic misfit!)

But the movie isn't just Bale alone. In fact, he really isn't the main protagonist here. That position clearly belongs to Heath Ledger - the best "Joker" ever - in one of the most memorable roles of his life. The background score was intense, the action was better than expected, Michael Caine and Morgan Freeman good as always, Aaron Eckhart all hope and optimism, which made the transformation that much more tragic..He'll be back in the next one, of course. It was a long movie, but kept me engrossed till the end. Definitely the best Batman movie ever.

The movie made a point on the true definition of heroism and courage. How it sometimes means not being a hero, and taking flak and ridicule in the broader interests of the job to be done. To be not what is wanted, but what is needed.

Mr Christopher Nolan, take a bow.