Unfortunately, I was able to watch only the first hour, so while I wait to view the rest of the movie, here are a few random thoughts:
Yay, elephant! **claps**
In some ways, this feels like Kaalai: Part Two.
It's uncomfortable watching Simbu act like a coward, getting pushed around, running away from folks--oh, hai now! He's beating up the goons! This is the Simbu I'm used to seeing!
I guess Santhanam is the heir apparent to Vivek; he seems to be the go-to "comedian" in films these days. As with Vivek, I find him more irritating than funny.
Sana Khan looks pretty. Facially, she reminds me of Simran. She's yet another Mumbai export. At this point, I think she'll either be a one film wonder or she'll do the bunny hop from Tamil to Telugu and to possibly Kannada if she fails to get a foothold in the first two industries.
Hello, gratuitous shots of Sana's breast, navel, and lips!
Simbu getting turned on in the movie theatre. A little OTT there.
Oh, look! Phallic symbolism! (I'll admit, I laughed, 'cause I have a filthy mind.)
Hello again, Sana's navel!
I like the picturisation of "Nalandhana", even though I got a few "Kutti Pisase" and "Gutkha Lakkadi"(both from Kaalai) flashbacks. Simbu appears to have picked up some new dance moves, thank goodness.
I recognize this scene from some stills I viewed on indiaglitz a while back.
Aside from the comedy bits and the pervasive feeling of déjà vu, I like the film. It's rather good, and I can't wait for the 2-in-1 DVD so that I can watch it uninterrupted--oh wait, I think it got it. More later.
ETA 01/01/09: I forgot to add last night that Simbu looks really good as a temple priest. His meekness was a turn-on for me, but I didn't like seeing him taking abuse from others. Be quiet and soft-spoken but kick ass when necessary, that's what I say.
I wish he had followed Vishal's example and developed a six-pack for those scenes where he's exposing his torso.
I do like watching him fight. Fight, fight, fight, fight, fight. And more fight, fight, fight, fighting.
Certain parts of "Tamilan Endra" remind me of "Podu Aattam Podu", Simbu's intro song in Vallavan.
Like Meena, Sneha was born to wear saris. She looks so alluring in traditional clothes.
I love the "Machaan Machaan" song. The picturisation is so sexy. Sneha looks seriously gorgeous, and she and Simbu make a nice-looking pair. I can't wait for the better picture quality of the Ayngaran release.
Oh, crap. Gotta wait again.
ETA 2: Fighting in spite of getting stabbed brings to mind a scene near the end of Dum.
Death scene very effective.
Nice transition to the present.
Billa scene. Took me a second to recognize Nirosha from Soora Samharam(awesomely bad cop movie from the 80s). Funny, but maybe lasted a couple of minutes too long. And what's up with the goras who sound like bad voice-overs? If you're gonna hire white actors, at least get ones who don't make me cringe every time they open their mouths.
For some reason, the way Simbu's dressed in the "Where Is The Party?" song makes me think of the eighties aerobics craze.
Okay, this feels like the Lal-Simbu fight scene near the end of Kaalai.
Wow, Sana really looks like Simran with those specs.
Even with its flaws, I still think it's a pretty good popcorn flick. I hope it does well enough to make up for Kaalai.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Yeh To Kamal Ho Gaya(1982)
I've been obsessed with hunting down and watching this movie ever since I came across these song clips on YouTube. Judging from the description on imdb.com, it appears to be the Hindi remake of Sattam En Kayil. As usual, I don't expect anything earth-shatteringly great, but I want to see it for two very shallow reasons:
1. Hannah Mitchell and Kamal Hassan seem to have more chemistry than Kamal and that French actress in Sattam En Kayil. The former pair were not remotely believable as lovers, IMO. Even when he smooched her, it felt so staged and passionless.
2. Hannah Mitchell--who happens to be the sister of the person who uploaded those videos, BTW--is one of the few blonde women I find genuinely attractive. By that I mean, her face doesn't look like the back end of a Mack truck, but because she has blonde hair, she's automatically upgraded to "hot" or "gorgeous". She's actually very pretty, and I seriously wish I were as flexible as she was/is.
The VCD is available from WebMall India, but it would cost about $18 to have it shipped to the US :( And I don't want to order four additional movies I don't really, really want just to make the shipping charge more palatable. **sigh** If only it were available from anytamil; I'd pay only $2.98 for shipping.
I have a feeling that if it's ever released on DVD, it will be an Eagle DVD, which means I'd have to order at least five copies because I know the first one won't play at all, the second and the third will freeze halfway through, and the menus probably won't work on the fourth copy. (Yeah, I've had a few money-wasting experiences with Eagle DVDs. I think they're worse than Video Sound.)
1. Hannah Mitchell and Kamal Hassan seem to have more chemistry than Kamal and that French actress in Sattam En Kayil. The former pair were not remotely believable as lovers, IMO. Even when he smooched her, it felt so staged and passionless.
2. Hannah Mitchell--who happens to be the sister of the person who uploaded those videos, BTW--is one of the few blonde women I find genuinely attractive. By that I mean, her face doesn't look like the back end of a Mack truck, but because she has blonde hair, she's automatically upgraded to "hot" or "gorgeous". She's actually very pretty, and I seriously wish I were as flexible as she was/is.
The VCD is available from WebMall India, but it would cost about $18 to have it shipped to the US :( And I don't want to order four additional movies I don't really, really want just to make the shipping charge more palatable. **sigh** If only it were available from anytamil; I'd pay only $2.98 for shipping.
I have a feeling that if it's ever released on DVD, it will be an Eagle DVD, which means I'd have to order at least five copies because I know the first one won't play at all, the second and the third will freeze halfway through, and the menus probably won't work on the fourth copy. (Yeah, I've had a few money-wasting experiences with Eagle DVDs. I think they're worse than Video Sound.)
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Enakkul Oruvan(1984)
Tamil remake of Karz. I thought about ordering the VCD from anytamil a while back, but hesitated.
Pros: Kamal Hassan and Shobana
Cons: Wasn't wild about Karz, and not sure if the Tamil version is any better. And, even though it's listed, it might not be available(e.g. Yavanika, Vismayathumbathu).
**sigh**
Pros: Kamal Hassan and Shobana
Cons: Wasn't wild about Karz, and not sure if the Tamil version is any better. And, even though it's listed, it might not be available(e.g. Yavanika, Vismayathumbathu).
**sigh**
Monday, December 29, 2008
Unnai Ninaithu(2002)
I came across this title while randomly browsing Nehaflix. When I saw that Sneha(or "Snega", as she's listed on the site) was in the cast, my interest was piqued, and I immediately Googled for more information about the film. I found a link to watch it online, but the site refused to cooperate, so I read a couple of reviews to try to get an idea of whether or not I wanted to buy it.
From The Hindu: "...Here is a young employee of a lodge, who goes out of his way to help his impoverished neighbour and his family — and all he gets in return is humiliation. What is worse, he takes it all lying down. The climax is on expected lines and the treatment lacks punch...If tedium sets in, in the climax the dialogue is the culprit. The similes, metaphors and aphorisms that go on endlessly test your patience..."
From Now Running: "The actual story occupies only 60 percent of the length of the film Rest of the time is eaten up by the so-called comedy of the inmates of the Lodge--Sundarrajan, Charlie & Co. If this was not enough, these are the songs!...If you examine the film in isolation without the comedy(huh?) & songs then Vikraman's story screenplay has only some minor flaws...But, the irksome comedy & its background score and the mind-boggling achievements within the course of a song--how long is Vikraman going to cling on to this formula?"
It doesn't sound too promising :( I'm getting a headache just thinking about the "so-called comedy". On one hand, I want to get it just for Sneha since I like her, and I want to see more of her movies, but on the other hand, I don't want to spend most of my time pressing the fast-forward button. **sigh** I might have to leave this in the "Better Off Not Buying" pile. I really wish I could've checked it out first, because I would hate for my curiosity to get the best of me and end up with something that just sits on my bookshelf, collecting dust. (Speaking of which, I guess I should try to watch Deepavali all the way through at least once. Got it for Bhavana and what little I saw before falling asleep bored me. Live and learn, I guess.)
03/13/09: My curiosity finally got the best of me and I ordered it. The verdict? I would say that the "so-called comedy" eats up SIXTY percent of the movie. I think I spent more time with my finger on the fast-forward button than I did actually watching the film. I wish there were some way to edit DVDs so that I could remove the scenes that annoy me, or slow down the pace of the flick.
Shallowness: Surya looked cute, but I think he's much better-looking without the thick 'tache and pouffed-up hairdo. Laila was lovely, but her character was passive and irritating as fuck. The only time she showed some spunk was when she took Surya to task for beating up her sleazy, would-be fiance. Sneha was gorgeous, as usual. I've said it before and I'll say it again: She was made for saris. Sneha in a sari is way sexier and more alluring than any chick wearing next to nothing.
I would describe this as "an otherwise okay movie marred by unnecessary comedy". I liked the scenes with Sneha and Surya best, mainly because Sneha actually showed signs of life as opposed to Laila, who did little more than sleepwalk her way through the film. Having said that, I would like to check out more of her movies, but only if she's not doing the meek and demure thing. She strikes me as being more of a bubbly Jyothika type.
From The Hindu: "...Here is a young employee of a lodge, who goes out of his way to help his impoverished neighbour and his family — and all he gets in return is humiliation. What is worse, he takes it all lying down. The climax is on expected lines and the treatment lacks punch...If tedium sets in, in the climax the dialogue is the culprit. The similes, metaphors and aphorisms that go on endlessly test your patience..."
From Now Running: "The actual story occupies only 60 percent of the length of the film Rest of the time is eaten up by the so-called comedy of the inmates of the Lodge--Sundarrajan, Charlie & Co. If this was not enough, these are the songs!...If you examine the film in isolation without the comedy(huh?) & songs then Vikraman's story screenplay has only some minor flaws...But, the irksome comedy & its background score and the mind-boggling achievements within the course of a song--how long is Vikraman going to cling on to this formula?"
It doesn't sound too promising :( I'm getting a headache just thinking about the "so-called comedy". On one hand, I want to get it just for Sneha since I like her, and I want to see more of her movies, but on the other hand, I don't want to spend most of my time pressing the fast-forward button. **sigh** I might have to leave this in the "Better Off Not Buying" pile. I really wish I could've checked it out first, because I would hate for my curiosity to get the best of me and end up with something that just sits on my bookshelf, collecting dust. (Speaking of which, I guess I should try to watch Deepavali all the way through at least once. Got it for Bhavana and what little I saw before falling asleep bored me. Live and learn, I guess.)
03/13/09: My curiosity finally got the best of me and I ordered it. The verdict? I would say that the "so-called comedy" eats up SIXTY percent of the movie. I think I spent more time with my finger on the fast-forward button than I did actually watching the film. I wish there were some way to edit DVDs so that I could remove the scenes that annoy me, or slow down the pace of the flick.
Shallowness: Surya looked cute, but I think he's much better-looking without the thick 'tache and pouffed-up hairdo. Laila was lovely, but her character was passive and irritating as fuck. The only time she showed some spunk was when she took Surya to task for beating up her sleazy, would-be fiance. Sneha was gorgeous, as usual. I've said it before and I'll say it again: She was made for saris. Sneha in a sari is way sexier and more alluring than any chick wearing next to nothing.
I would describe this as "an otherwise okay movie marred by unnecessary comedy". I liked the scenes with Sneha and Surya best, mainly because Sneha actually showed signs of life as opposed to Laila, who did little more than sleepwalk her way through the film. Having said that, I would like to check out more of her movies, but only if she's not doing the meek and demure thing. She strikes me as being more of a bubbly Jyothika type.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Dhaam Dhoom(2008)
I've viewed bits and pieces of this since receiving it a few days ago. I'm watching it again, this time from the beginning. These are just my first impressions based on what I've seen so far:
Jayam Ravi looks too much like a regular guy to pull off the lip-syncing, choreographed dancing thing. (I'm referring to the "Pudhu Pudhu Vazhi" song as I type this.)
I can't quite wrap my mind around Kangana Ranaut as a village belle. She looks nice, but I think I prefer the boozed-up and drugged-out characters she played in Gangster and Fashion, respectively.
Because I like repeating myself: Jayam Ravi looks too much like a regular guy to pull off the lip-syncing, choreographed dancing thing. (This time, it's the "Dhikku Dhikkuennu Manasu" song.)
Lakshmi Rai looks gorgeous. Her face has a bird-like quality that I find appealing.
I remember Jayaram from Panchathanthiram, Manassinakkare, and most recently, Aegan.
The shots of Russia are beautiful.
I think this movie, like so many others, is going to take a while to grow on me.
Jayam Ravi looks too much like a regular guy to pull off the lip-syncing, choreographed dancing thing. (I'm referring to the "Pudhu Pudhu Vazhi" song as I type this.)
I can't quite wrap my mind around Kangana Ranaut as a village belle. She looks nice, but I think I prefer the boozed-up and drugged-out characters she played in Gangster and Fashion, respectively.
Because I like repeating myself: Jayam Ravi looks too much like a regular guy to pull off the lip-syncing, choreographed dancing thing. (This time, it's the "Dhikku Dhikkuennu Manasu" song.)
Lakshmi Rai looks gorgeous. Her face has a bird-like quality that I find appealing.
I remember Jayaram from Panchathanthiram, Manassinakkare, and most recently, Aegan.
The shots of Russia are beautiful.
I think this movie, like so many others, is going to take a while to grow on me.
Athadu(2005)
Yeah, I was "eh" on this at first, but after watching Athidhi for the ten millionth time I decided that I needed another Mahesh Babu fix. So I thought I'd give this another chance. I'm glad I did, because it's actually pretty good. It may very well be bumped up to "really good" after I watch it a few more times.
'Cause I like to keep it brief:
I prefer the longer hair Mahesh sported in Athidhi, but he still looked good.
I'm torn as to which pairing I like best: Trisha-Vijay or Trisha-Mahesh?
Hi, Prakash Raj, how ya doin'? (He actually didn't bug me in this movie. I must be getting used to seeing him all the time.)
Suniel is considerably less irritating when he's not constantly saying "angle". (Prior to this, Athidhi was my only exposure to him.)
Trisha was her usual cute, bubbly, and sexy self.
I liked the picturisations of the "Chandamama Chandamama" and "Avunu Nijam" songs.
The shoot-out inside the church with the flying pigeons and the slow and stop motion made me think of Mission: Impossible 2 and The Matrix.
I had a feeling that tenth marble would come in handy.
'Cause I like to keep it brief:
I prefer the longer hair Mahesh sported in Athidhi, but he still looked good.
I'm torn as to which pairing I like best: Trisha-Vijay or Trisha-Mahesh?
Hi, Prakash Raj, how ya doin'? (He actually didn't bug me in this movie. I must be getting used to seeing him all the time.)
Suniel is considerably less irritating when he's not constantly saying "angle". (Prior to this, Athidhi was my only exposure to him.)
Trisha was her usual cute, bubbly, and sexy self.
I liked the picturisations of the "Chandamama Chandamama" and "Avunu Nijam" songs.
The shoot-out inside the church with the flying pigeons and the slow and stop motion made me think of Mission: Impossible 2 and The Matrix.
I had a feeling that tenth marble would come in handy.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Short takes, pt. 2.
I might do more in-depth posts on some or all of these, but for now:
Ek Nai Paheli(1984) - I hope I didn't imagine the chemistry between Kamal Hassan and Hema Malini. Kamal's wig was weirdly hypnotic.
Ullasa Paravaigal(1980) - Not what I expected. A disappointment. I got sick of watching Kamal and Rati Agnihotri getting chased by foreign actors in the second half.
Sivappu Rojakkal(1978) - The wonderbread shirt rocks. Loved the Kamal-Sri chemistry. The "Nothing! Nothing! Nothing! Nothinnnnggggg!" scene is one of my favorites.
Tik...Tik...Tik(1981) - Madhavi's blue bikini is forever etched in my mind, as are the scenes of Kamal lying shirtless in bed and Kamal in his underwear. The ending was very anti-climatic.
Vanakkathukiriya Kathali(1977) - I love Sridevi but I gotta admit, this movie is very slow and boring. It puts me to sleep whenever I try to watch it.
Ek Nai Paheli(1984) - I hope I didn't imagine the chemistry between Kamal Hassan and Hema Malini. Kamal's wig was weirdly hypnotic.
Ullasa Paravaigal(1980) - Not what I expected. A disappointment. I got sick of watching Kamal and Rati Agnihotri getting chased by foreign actors in the second half.
Sivappu Rojakkal(1978) - The wonderbread shirt rocks. Loved the Kamal-Sri chemistry. The "Nothing! Nothing! Nothing! Nothinnnnggggg!" scene is one of my favorites.
Tik...Tik...Tik(1981) - Madhavi's blue bikini is forever etched in my mind, as are the scenes of Kamal lying shirtless in bed and Kamal in his underwear. The ending was very anti-climatic.
Vanakkathukiriya Kathali(1977) - I love Sridevi but I gotta admit, this movie is very slow and boring. It puts me to sleep whenever I try to watch it.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Karz(2008)
Granted, I watched only bits and pieces of various parts on YouTube, but I didn't think it was that bad. Yeah, it feels dated, and there are gazillion and one songs, and both Himesh Reshammiya and Shweta Kumar are horribly miscast, yet I kinda liked it. I wouldn't spend money on it, but I would probably watch it if it were one of those edited-for-television, Sunday matinee movies.
I must confess, I have a tiny crush on Himesh's wig. I couldn't stop staring at it. I thought it had more personality and screen presence than the person wearing it.
Urmila, for the most part, looked good. I found her sexier and more alluring than Shweta, who, despite her pretty cat eyes, was as unremarkable on film as she was in the movie stills. I had hoped she would turn out to be one of those people who's more telegenic than photogenic, but no such luck. And the fact that she doesn't seem to possess any charisma or acting talent doesn't help, either.
I wish Dino Morea and Himesh had switched roles. While Dino is also a little long in the tooth to be convincing as a young rock star, I'd rather look at him for 2+ hours than Himesh. I'm not exactly a fan, but I definitely consider him eye candy.
From what little I saw of the original Karz, I wasn't impressed. For me, it was one of those movies that sounds more interesting than it really is. I didn't give it much of a chance, of course, but for right now, I'll trust my initial reaction of "Uhhh...I should've bought something else."
I must confess, I have a tiny crush on Himesh's wig. I couldn't stop staring at it. I thought it had more personality and screen presence than the person wearing it.
Urmila, for the most part, looked good. I found her sexier and more alluring than Shweta, who, despite her pretty cat eyes, was as unremarkable on film as she was in the movie stills. I had hoped she would turn out to be one of those people who's more telegenic than photogenic, but no such luck. And the fact that she doesn't seem to possess any charisma or acting talent doesn't help, either.
I wish Dino Morea and Himesh had switched roles. While Dino is also a little long in the tooth to be convincing as a young rock star, I'd rather look at him for 2+ hours than Himesh. I'm not exactly a fan, but I definitely consider him eye candy.
From what little I saw of the original Karz, I wasn't impressed. For me, it was one of those movies that sounds more interesting than it really is. I didn't give it much of a chance, of course, but for right now, I'll trust my initial reaction of "Uhhh...I should've bought something else."
Aegan(2008)
I ordered the 2-in-1 DVD just now. I thought, "What the hell? If it sucks, I hope it's a good kind of suck(e.g. Showgirls), and not a bad suck(e.g. Satyam)." According to the director, Raju Sundaram, Aegan is not a remake of the Bollywood film, Main Hoon Na. Even though I haven't seen the latter(and don't plan to), I'm 99% certain that the former is a copycat. Not that it matters. I mean, if I allowed some filmmakers' penchant for plagarism to get in the way of my movie watching, I would have very few DVDs in my collection. **knowing grin**
Nayantara is the main reason I bought it. She's not the greatest actress, but I think she can be pretty good(e.g. Raapakal, Yaradi Nee Mohini), and I find her sexy, which is usually all it takes to catch my attention. And since I liked Ajith in Billa, I figured I might like him in Aegan, too. I hope I'm not disappointed.
I'll return to this entry after I've watched it.
ETA 01/22/10: It's been a while since I last watched this flick but, this movie sucks. Lord knows I'm not an SRK fan but I'm sure Main Hoon Na is a lot better. Still, I liked Ajith, big gut, facial hair, and all. I wish he'd leave the action stuff to Vijay and do more films like Vaali and Mugavari.
Nayantara is the main reason I bought it. She's not the greatest actress, but I think she can be pretty good(e.g. Raapakal, Yaradi Nee Mohini), and I find her sexy, which is usually all it takes to catch my attention. And since I liked Ajith in Billa, I figured I might like him in Aegan, too. I hope I'm not disappointed.
I'll return to this entry after I've watched it.
ETA 01/22/10: It's been a while since I last watched this flick but, this movie sucks. Lord knows I'm not an SRK fan but I'm sure Main Hoon Na is a lot better. Still, I liked Ajith, big gut, facial hair, and all. I wish he'd leave the action stuff to Vijay and do more films like Vaali and Mugavari.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Short takes.
Or, "When I Can't Think of Enough Words to Type a Full-Fledged Entry".
Zeher(2005) - I think I'm the only person who doesn't hate this movie. I honestly liked it more than its Hollywood "inspiration", Out of Time.
Kadal Azhivathillai(2002) - Prakash Raj strikes again, this time as Simbu's overly paranoid father. However, last night, as I watched him in Pokiri, I felt something approaching warm fuzzies, probably because it's been a while since I've watched a movie that he's in.
Yogi(2007) - I prefer the Kannada original. Also, I like Prabhas better in stills than on film. When I see him in pics, I'm like, "Mmmmm...", but when I see him in action, I'm less than impressed.
Dishyum(2006) I like this movie but I don't love it. I'm not sure why.
Takkari(2007) - Nitin doesn't do anything for me. The Tamil original, Thiruvilayadal Aarambam, wasn't exactly a masterpiece, but I prefer the pairing of Dhanush and Shriya Saran to Nitin and Sada(who I thought looked sexy, although a tad sleazy(nothing wrong with that) in a couple of songs).
Black Cat(2007) - I could've done without the shots of a bare-chested Suresh Gopi, but overall, I was able to cope. Meena looked a tad aged, but still pretty. (Which reminds me, I need to inquire about that Dreams DVD that doesn't look like it will ever be in stock again.)
Naan Adimai Illai(1986) - This is the movie that solidified my love for the 'Devi. A couple of my favorite lines are "I am going-talking, you are going, going, going!", and "This is a decent home and not a bar!"
Zeher(2005) - I think I'm the only person who doesn't hate this movie. I honestly liked it more than its Hollywood "inspiration", Out of Time.
Kadal Azhivathillai(2002) - Prakash Raj strikes again, this time as Simbu's overly paranoid father. However, last night, as I watched him in Pokiri, I felt something approaching warm fuzzies, probably because it's been a while since I've watched a movie that he's in.
Yogi(2007) - I prefer the Kannada original. Also, I like Prabhas better in stills than on film. When I see him in pics, I'm like, "Mmmmm...", but when I see him in action, I'm less than impressed.
Dishyum(2006) I like this movie but I don't love it. I'm not sure why.
Takkari(2007) - Nitin doesn't do anything for me. The Tamil original, Thiruvilayadal Aarambam, wasn't exactly a masterpiece, but I prefer the pairing of Dhanush and Shriya Saran to Nitin and Sada(who I thought looked sexy, although a tad sleazy(nothing wrong with that) in a couple of songs).
Black Cat(2007) - I could've done without the shots of a bare-chested Suresh Gopi, but overall, I was able to cope. Meena looked a tad aged, but still pretty. (Which reminds me, I need to inquire about that Dreams DVD that doesn't look like it will ever be in stock again.)
Naan Adimai Illai(1986) - This is the movie that solidified my love for the 'Devi. A couple of my favorite lines are "I am going-talking, you are going, going, going!", and "This is a decent home and not a bar!"
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Zara Si Zindagi(1983)
Hindi remake of Varumaiyin Niram Sivappu, a 1980 Tamil movie starring Kamal Hassan and Sridevi. (I've been meaning to type a post about this, BTW, but I can't seem to find the right words to express why I love this movie and what it means to me.)
I've been obsessed with watching this film ever since I first found out about it. I'm sure the original is better, but I still want to see it because of Kamal Hassan and Anita Raj. Anita isn't necessarily a favorite actress of mine, but I found her alluring in some of her early and mid-eighties films, and she kind of fascinates me because, aside from the most basic facts, I know very little about her. (And I'd rather keep it that way so that she retains the mysterious aura I've created for her, haha.) I wonder how she fares in Sridevi's role, and if she and Kamal have any onscreen chemistry.
I doubt a DVD release is in the cards since, AFAIK, it was a huge flop. I don't think there's a VCD available, either. There may be a VHS copy floating around somewhere, but it's highly unlikely that I'll get my hands on it. Apparently, it can be viewed or downloaded here, but I should first find out if anyone else has used this site and what their experiences were before signing up.
I've been obsessed with watching this film ever since I first found out about it. I'm sure the original is better, but I still want to see it because of Kamal Hassan and Anita Raj. Anita isn't necessarily a favorite actress of mine, but I found her alluring in some of her early and mid-eighties films, and she kind of fascinates me because, aside from the most basic facts, I know very little about her. (And I'd rather keep it that way so that she retains the mysterious aura I've created for her, haha.) I wonder how she fares in Sridevi's role, and if she and Kamal have any onscreen chemistry.
I doubt a DVD release is in the cards since, AFAIK, it was a huge flop. I don't think there's a VCD available, either. There may be a VHS copy floating around somewhere, but it's highly unlikely that I'll get my hands on it. Apparently, it can be viewed or downloaded here, but I should first find out if anyone else has used this site and what their experiences were before signing up.
Tashan(2008)
'Tis the season and I feel like wasting money on shit I wouldn't normally buy, like the Tashan DVD that's currently $7 at Nehaflix. AFAIK, it got mostly negative reviews, but I rarely allow that to stop me, as I tend to like whatever the critics and/or the masses hate.
The good: Kareena Kapoor - I like 'Reena, and I'm probably one of the few people who doesn't mind her slimmer frame.
The maybe-not-so-good: Anil Kapoor - His presence killed many a desire to buy certain Madhuri Dixit movies. I don't hate him, I just wish he hadn't been in every other release during the late eighties and early nineties. I found him tolerable in Salaam-E-Ishq, but I dunno if I'll be able to put up with him in Tashan.
Akshay Kumar - Something about him turns me off. I get a "tries TOO hard to be funny/charming/likeable/etc" vibe from him.
Saif Ali Khan - I haven't watched any of his movies, so I can't say whether or not he bugs. I do think he and Kareena make a better-looking couple, though. I always thought Kareena and Shahid looked mismatched.
The verdict: I don't know. I should probably watch it online first.
The good: Kareena Kapoor - I like 'Reena, and I'm probably one of the few people who doesn't mind her slimmer frame.
The maybe-not-so-good: Anil Kapoor - His presence killed many a desire to buy certain Madhuri Dixit movies. I don't hate him, I just wish he hadn't been in every other release during the late eighties and early nineties. I found him tolerable in Salaam-E-Ishq, but I dunno if I'll be able to put up with him in Tashan.
Akshay Kumar - Something about him turns me off. I get a "tries TOO hard to be funny/charming/likeable/etc" vibe from him.
Saif Ali Khan - I haven't watched any of his movies, so I can't say whether or not he bugs. I do think he and Kareena make a better-looking couple, though. I always thought Kareena and Shahid looked mismatched.
The verdict: I don't know. I should probably watch it online first.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Bombay To Bangkok(2008)
I ordered it a few minutes ago since it was only $5 at Nehaflix. I've sort-of wanted to watch this solely because it's so rare to see a non-white woman as the foreign love interest. I don't expect anything great, but I hope I don't wind up disappointed(e.g. Satyam).
I know nothing about Shreyas Talpade except I believe he's in Welcome To Sanjapur(sp?), which I also sort-of want to watch because of Amrita Rao(ever since Athidhi, she's become my new fave gal). Facially, he reminds me of another actor--is it Ritesh Deshmukh?
Lina Christensen is pretty, and she, too, reminds me of someone, but I can't think of who. I'm going to have to stop paying attention to the entertainment industry altogether so that everyone will stop reminding me of other people.
I will have to come back to this after I've watched it.
ETA 12/24/08: It wasn't good, but it was watchable. I wish there had been more running from the bad guys, more bad guys who were actually bad instead of lame, more shots of Bangkok, and a climax that wasn't such a big, yawning "Who cares?" The only thing that held my interest was the cute pairing of Shreyas and Lena. The movie would've worked better had it just been a "boy-meets-girl, but neither can speak the other's language, however love conquers all in spite of their cultural differences"-type romantic comedy.
I know nothing about Shreyas Talpade except I believe he's in Welcome To Sanjapur(sp?), which I also sort-of want to watch because of Amrita Rao(ever since Athidhi, she's become my new fave gal). Facially, he reminds me of another actor--is it Ritesh Deshmukh?
Lina Christensen is pretty, and she, too, reminds me of someone, but I can't think of who. I'm going to have to stop paying attention to the entertainment industry altogether so that everyone will stop reminding me of other people.
I will have to come back to this after I've watched it.
ETA 12/24/08: It wasn't good, but it was watchable. I wish there had been more running from the bad guys, more bad guys who were actually bad instead of lame, more shots of Bangkok, and a climax that wasn't such a big, yawning "Who cares?" The only thing that held my interest was the cute pairing of Shreyas and Lena. The movie would've worked better had it just been a "boy-meets-girl, but neither can speak the other's language, however love conquers all in spite of their cultural differences"-type romantic comedy.
Friday, December 12, 2008
Satyam(2008)
10/07/08: I don't have the DVD, but I'm watching a five minute preview online. If I were so inclined, I would download and install the Veoh player so that I could view the entire movie, but I'd rather not do that. I'm leery of downloading stuff from the internet.
From what I've seen, it looks like it might be worth getting the 2-in-1 if/when bhavanidvd offers it for $9.99 or less. Nayantara is the main reason I want to see it, and I'm also intrigued by Vishal's six-pack abs. I don't expect anything great, just mindless, escapist fare, something you'd watch on a lazy Saturday or Sunday afternoon while lounging in bed and eating a big tub of popcorn.
ETA 12/12/08: I have the DVD, and I watched most of it last night. I fell asleep during the "Paal Pappali" song, so maybe I missed something great, but my initial reaction? I hate it. I can see why it flopped at the box-office. Maybe after repeat viewings it will slowly grow on me, but right now, I wish I had ordered Dhaam Dhoom instead.
Other thoughts:
I thought the key to enjoying this movie would be to not take it as seriously as the performers did. That didn't work.
According to Wikipedia, Vishal is only 31, but the hairstyle, thick moustache, and his stern facial expression made him appear 45, IMO. I think he should go back to whatever look he had going on during his blink-and-you'll-miss-it cameo in Dishyum. IIRC, his 'tache was less abundant, and he wasn't sporting that pouffed-up, immobile 'do. From what little I saw, he appeared quite handsome.
His six-pack abs were a visual treat, however.
Nayan looked pretty but with regards to her so-called comedy scenes, "She hams badly", to quote a reviewer.
I am not a fan of children in non-kid themed movies. The kiddie shenanigans should've been left out entirely.
There were so many extraneous fight and comedy scenes that I kept forgetting what the movie was supposed to be about. At one point, I wanted to give this film some focus tablets.
I was "eh" on Upendra in Aishwarya but I liked him in Satyam. I wish he had gotten more screen time.
The "Chellame Chellame" song was nice, and the picturisation was sexy. I would be very suprised if Nayantara and Vishal didn't have an affair during the filming of this movie, because as soon as I saw them striking poses and getting up close and personal with one another I thought, "Yeah, they had sex."
The only thing I liked about "Ada Gada Gada" was Nayantara in that Catwoman costume. She looked hot. Too bad she wasn't wielding a whip and role-playing with Vishal.
The "Loose Penne" refrain was funny. I figure it was a poke at Nayan's ex, Simbu.
Considering how bad Satyam is, I should've liked it, but I guess even I have my limits. I'll try to watch it again tonight, this time in its entirety, and see if I feel differently.
ETA 12/15/08: I watched it a couple more times and I guess it's not quite as bad as I originally thought, but the annoying comedy sequences, silly stunt fighting scenes, and long-ass speech delivered by Vishal at the end have killed its chances for further repeat viewing, at least in the immediate future.
BTW, I ordered Dhaam Dhoom and Kuruvi today. I watched the latter online, so I know what I'm getting, but I fervently hope that the former is much better than the 5 minute Veoh preview suggested.
ETA 12/22/08: Okay, I lied. I HAVE watched it repeatedly. I'll blame my fondness for "Chellame Chellame" and Vishal's bald head. My final verdict is that it's really not THAT bad. I could still do without the kiddie antics, the lame comedy scenes, and Vishal's superhuman stunts, but overall, it makes for pretty decent mindless viewing. Even Vishal's long-ass speech and the "Ada Gada Gada" song have grown on me. I won't say it's one of my favorites, but at least I've watched it enough to feel that I've gotten my money's worth.
From what I've seen, it looks like it might be worth getting the 2-in-1 if/when bhavanidvd offers it for $9.99 or less. Nayantara is the main reason I want to see it, and I'm also intrigued by Vishal's six-pack abs. I don't expect anything great, just mindless, escapist fare, something you'd watch on a lazy Saturday or Sunday afternoon while lounging in bed and eating a big tub of popcorn.
ETA 12/12/08: I have the DVD, and I watched most of it last night. I fell asleep during the "Paal Pappali" song, so maybe I missed something great, but my initial reaction? I hate it. I can see why it flopped at the box-office. Maybe after repeat viewings it will slowly grow on me, but right now, I wish I had ordered Dhaam Dhoom instead.
Other thoughts:
I thought the key to enjoying this movie would be to not take it as seriously as the performers did. That didn't work.
According to Wikipedia, Vishal is only 31, but the hairstyle, thick moustache, and his stern facial expression made him appear 45, IMO. I think he should go back to whatever look he had going on during his blink-and-you'll-miss-it cameo in Dishyum. IIRC, his 'tache was less abundant, and he wasn't sporting that pouffed-up, immobile 'do. From what little I saw, he appeared quite handsome.
His six-pack abs were a visual treat, however.
Nayan looked pretty but with regards to her so-called comedy scenes, "She hams badly", to quote a reviewer.
I am not a fan of children in non-kid themed movies. The kiddie shenanigans should've been left out entirely.
There were so many extraneous fight and comedy scenes that I kept forgetting what the movie was supposed to be about. At one point, I wanted to give this film some focus tablets.
I was "eh" on Upendra in Aishwarya but I liked him in Satyam. I wish he had gotten more screen time.
The "Chellame Chellame" song was nice, and the picturisation was sexy. I would be very suprised if Nayantara and Vishal didn't have an affair during the filming of this movie, because as soon as I saw them striking poses and getting up close and personal with one another I thought, "Yeah, they had sex."
The only thing I liked about "Ada Gada Gada" was Nayantara in that Catwoman costume. She looked hot. Too bad she wasn't wielding a whip and role-playing with Vishal.
The "Loose Penne" refrain was funny. I figure it was a poke at Nayan's ex, Simbu.
Considering how bad Satyam is, I should've liked it, but I guess even I have my limits. I'll try to watch it again tonight, this time in its entirety, and see if I feel differently.
ETA 12/15/08: I watched it a couple more times and I guess it's not quite as bad as I originally thought, but the annoying comedy sequences, silly stunt fighting scenes, and long-ass speech delivered by Vishal at the end have killed its chances for further repeat viewing, at least in the immediate future.
BTW, I ordered Dhaam Dhoom and Kuruvi today. I watched the latter online, so I know what I'm getting, but I fervently hope that the former is much better than the 5 minute Veoh preview suggested.
ETA 12/22/08: Okay, I lied. I HAVE watched it repeatedly. I'll blame my fondness for "Chellame Chellame" and Vishal's bald head. My final verdict is that it's really not THAT bad. I could still do without the kiddie antics, the lame comedy scenes, and Vishal's superhuman stunts, but overall, it makes for pretty decent mindless viewing. Even Vishal's long-ass speech and the "Ada Gada Gada" song have grown on me. I won't say it's one of my favorites, but at least I've watched it enough to feel that I've gotten my money's worth.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Classmates(2006)
I knew whodunnit the second that person appeared onscreen. The other individual was a red herring. And when I heard the words "barely hanging on", I correctly guessed that A) Sukumaran(Prithviraj) would survive and B) the ending would be a happy one. I wish Suku had been found dead, and that the movie had ended on a somber note. I don't like forced happy endings; they feel like a cheat. **scowl**
But despite the predictable and too-neatly-resolved conclusion, I liked the movie. I was hesitant to watch it at first because of all the positive buzz surrounding it. I usually end up feeling disappointed by or very "meh" about such films. While Classmates isn't great, it's good, and I can see why it was so well-received. Plus, I bought it at a discount, which made it even better, because while I enjoyed it, I'm not sure I would want to pay full price for it. (Yeah, I'm cheap.)
In Kana Kanden, I admired Prithviraj's acting but was underwhelmed by his looks. I didn't think he was ugly, I just didn't feel he was as good-looking as some reviewers claimed. However, in Classmates, I found him quite handsome. I don't know if it was because I was seeing him in his--for lack of a better term--"natural element"(i.e. Malayalam movies), or if, like Vijay and Mahesh Babu, his physical attributes simply took a while to grow on me. **shrug** Regardless of the reason, I now want to check out some of his other movies like Chocolate, Anandabhadram, and Avan Chandiyude Makan.
I remember Narain from Ore Kadal. He's a good actor. I might have to give Anjathe or Chithiram Pesuthadi a look-see.
From the "You Remind Me Of..." files:
A bearded Prithviraj = Kamal Hassan in Varumaiyin Niram Sivappu
Kavya Madhavan at certain angles = Asin, particularly when sporting braided pigtails
Radhika in some shots = Mallika Sherawat, mostly in the eyes, which I find chuckle-worthy because Radhika's character wore traditional Islamic dress, and Mallika, aside from her burqa wearing stint at a Mumbai airport, isn't exactly known for covering up :)
I wonder how the Telugu remake compares. I sorta want to see it because of Sada.
But despite the predictable and too-neatly-resolved conclusion, I liked the movie. I was hesitant to watch it at first because of all the positive buzz surrounding it. I usually end up feeling disappointed by or very "meh" about such films. While Classmates isn't great, it's good, and I can see why it was so well-received. Plus, I bought it at a discount, which made it even better, because while I enjoyed it, I'm not sure I would want to pay full price for it. (Yeah, I'm cheap.)
In Kana Kanden, I admired Prithviraj's acting but was underwhelmed by his looks. I didn't think he was ugly, I just didn't feel he was as good-looking as some reviewers claimed. However, in Classmates, I found him quite handsome. I don't know if it was because I was seeing him in his--for lack of a better term--"natural element"(i.e. Malayalam movies), or if, like Vijay and Mahesh Babu, his physical attributes simply took a while to grow on me. **shrug** Regardless of the reason, I now want to check out some of his other movies like Chocolate, Anandabhadram, and Avan Chandiyude Makan.
I remember Narain from Ore Kadal. He's a good actor. I might have to give Anjathe or Chithiram Pesuthadi a look-see.
From the "You Remind Me Of..." files:
A bearded Prithviraj = Kamal Hassan in Varumaiyin Niram Sivappu
Kavya Madhavan at certain angles = Asin, particularly when sporting braided pigtails
Radhika in some shots = Mallika Sherawat, mostly in the eyes, which I find chuckle-worthy because Radhika's character wore traditional Islamic dress, and Mallika, aside from her burqa wearing stint at a Mumbai airport, isn't exactly known for covering up :)
I wonder how the Telugu remake compares. I sorta want to see it because of Sada.
Friday, December 5, 2008
Priya(1978)
"Darling, darling, darling, I love you, love you, love you. Darling, darling, darling, I love you..."
**sigh** I miss uploading videos to YouTube. I feel like such a failure for being unable to violate copyright laws like the gazillion or so other users. Anyway...
I watched this for the umpteenth time last night. I wish I could clearly articulate why I like this movie so much. There's an explanation floating in my head, but it would make sense to only me, so I'll just say that, among other things, it makes me nostalgic for the seventies, and Sridevi is, well, Sridevi. I love her. I'm so glad Nehaflix had this in stock, because I was kicking myself for the longest time for not ordering it from India Weekly many moons ago.
Rajnikanth looked suave and every inch the hero. I'm firmly on Team Kamal, but I'll admit that Rajini is charismatic, and has star quality. I also liked him in Naan Adimai Illai, 16 Vayathinile, Ninaithale Inikkum, and Gayatri. I haven't watched any of his recent films, but at some point, I may check out Sivaji and try to focus more on Shriya's beauty than the obvious age gap between her and Rajini.
I wish I could find information about Asna, the actress who played Rajini's love interest. I thought she was beautiful, and I liked that a non-gori was cast as the foreign girlfriend. I'm not sure of Asna's ethnicity, but her character was Malay-Indian. Since my Google-fu comes up with nada, I'll assume that in real life she was at least part Malay.
Trivial blather: I think the dress Sri was wearing when she first meets Rajini is the same one she wore in Taxi Driver. And the white dress she had on in the scene when she was signing those contracts may have been borrowed from the set of Sivappu Rojakkal(or vice versa).
**sigh** I miss uploading videos to YouTube. I feel like such a failure for being unable to violate copyright laws like the gazillion or so other users. Anyway...
I watched this for the umpteenth time last night. I wish I could clearly articulate why I like this movie so much. There's an explanation floating in my head, but it would make sense to only me, so I'll just say that, among other things, it makes me nostalgic for the seventies, and Sridevi is, well, Sridevi. I love her. I'm so glad Nehaflix had this in stock, because I was kicking myself for the longest time for not ordering it from India Weekly many moons ago.
Rajnikanth looked suave and every inch the hero. I'm firmly on Team Kamal, but I'll admit that Rajini is charismatic, and has star quality. I also liked him in Naan Adimai Illai, 16 Vayathinile, Ninaithale Inikkum, and Gayatri. I haven't watched any of his recent films, but at some point, I may check out Sivaji and try to focus more on Shriya's beauty than the obvious age gap between her and Rajini.
I wish I could find information about Asna, the actress who played Rajini's love interest. I thought she was beautiful, and I liked that a non-gori was cast as the foreign girlfriend. I'm not sure of Asna's ethnicity, but her character was Malay-Indian. Since my Google-fu comes up with nada, I'll assume that in real life she was at least part Malay.
Trivial blather: I think the dress Sri was wearing when she first meets Rajini is the same one she wore in Taxi Driver. And the white dress she had on in the scene when she was signing those contracts may have been borrowed from the set of Sivappu Rojakkal(or vice versa).
Thamizhan(2002)
Dubbed into Hindi as Jeet.
I briefly considered buying this, sight unseen, simply because I was in the mood to waste money. But something told me to check for it online, so I did. It was a wise decision. Not even the late nineties look/feel of this movie could convince me to give it my undivided attention. Jumping ahead to certain parts didn't help, either. I didn't think it was bad, just not my cup of tea.
The main reason I wanted to check it out is because I was curious to see Priyanka Chopra in a south film. I'm not a fan, but I have moments when I like her, and I find her pretty, even gorgeous, at times. In this flick, however, she wasn't doing it for me. I thought she looked a bit awkward and overly made up, particularly in the "Hot Party" song. On the other hand, I was kinda diggin' her heavy pancake and colored lenses in the "Ullathai Killadhae" song. Go figure. **shrug** Anyway, from what I saw, she didn't have much of a role. She basically showed up long enough to daydream about or make goo-goo eyes at Vijay.
Speaking of whom, while he had the "plump, middle-aged" look going on, I was able to tolerate it.
Back to Priyanka: her dubbing artist sounded familar. I think she may be the same person who dubs/has dubbed for Shriya, and maybe Simran, Jyothika, Trisha, and/or Asin. I'm not sure. Just about everyone sounds the same these days.
What else? I thought Revathy looked pretty. And I liked the picturisations of the aforementioned "Hot Party" and "Ullathai Killadhae" songs. But the movie as a whole(or the few parts I watched, rather) couldn't grab my interest, so I will have to waste money on something else.
I briefly considered buying this, sight unseen, simply because I was in the mood to waste money. But something told me to check for it online, so I did. It was a wise decision. Not even the late nineties look/feel of this movie could convince me to give it my undivided attention. Jumping ahead to certain parts didn't help, either. I didn't think it was bad, just not my cup of tea.
The main reason I wanted to check it out is because I was curious to see Priyanka Chopra in a south film. I'm not a fan, but I have moments when I like her, and I find her pretty, even gorgeous, at times. In this flick, however, she wasn't doing it for me. I thought she looked a bit awkward and overly made up, particularly in the "Hot Party" song. On the other hand, I was kinda diggin' her heavy pancake and colored lenses in the "Ullathai Killadhae" song. Go figure. **shrug** Anyway, from what I saw, she didn't have much of a role. She basically showed up long enough to daydream about or make goo-goo eyes at Vijay.
Speaking of whom, while he had the "plump, middle-aged" look going on, I was able to tolerate it.
Back to Priyanka: her dubbing artist sounded familar. I think she may be the same person who dubs/has dubbed for Shriya, and maybe Simran, Jyothika, Trisha, and/or Asin. I'm not sure. Just about everyone sounds the same these days.
What else? I thought Revathy looked pretty. And I liked the picturisations of the aforementioned "Hot Party" and "Ullathai Killadhae" songs. But the movie as a whole(or the few parts I watched, rather) couldn't grab my interest, so I will have to waste money on something else.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Ganda Hendathi(2006)
From an interview with producer Shailendra Babu:
His remarks remind me of the time when, just before Showgirls was released, Joe Eszterhas urged underage kids to use their fake IDs to sneak in so that they wouldn't miss the film's "message", or some such hilarity. Maybe it's just my family, but I can't imagine any of my older relatives, parents included, sticking around long enough to decipher "the message" behind Thilak and Sanjana's numerous--and often eyebrow-raising(for me, anyway)--make out sessions. For instance, the scene where Thilak smears ice cream on Sanjana's face and licks it off would be enough to make them vow to never watch another movie with me again.
I, for the most part, don't have a problem with skin show, so I enjoyed the movie. **grin** I mean, how could I not love an unintentionally funny, almost scene-by-scene, song-by-song rip-off of Murder? As soon as I saw Thilak fake falling to his equally fake death in front of an obvious blue screen, I knew that my $9.93 had been well-spent.
I would describe Ganda Hendathi as "awesomely bad, and delighfully sleazy". For me, it's right up there with Hawas(2004) and Fun(Can Be Dangerous Sometime) in terms of unrepentant skeazyness. Murder may have had better production values, but I like the Thilak-Sanjana pairing better than the Emraan-Mallika one. The former appeared to genuinely enjoy each other(although, a couple of times, Sanjana appeared hesitant and/or uncomfortable). If they actually hated one another during filming, then they're better actors than I initially thought.
"Oho Nasheyo" and "Nidiregu Raja" don't get stuck in my head as often as their respective Hindi counterparts, "Kaho Na Kaho" and "Bheegey Hont", so I'm automatically partial to them. Plus, the picturisations are sexier and more in-yer-face(e.g the ice cream licking scene I mentioned earlier).
Sanjana is cute, but I wish she'd ditch the blue contact lenses. Yeah, they're her eyeballs and she can stick whatever she wants on them, but personally, I prefer the way she looks with her natural eye color.
I...like Thilak, to put it delicately. And his hair makes him look like "he belongs in a Pantene commercial", to quote a YouTube commenter.
Vishal Hegde looked like such a sad sack with his flat hair and specs that I felt sorry for him. At least he wasn't quite as forgettable as Ashmit Patel. (I have nothing against Ashmit, really, it's just that I honestly forget that he was in Murder.)
I think I'll watch this tonight. I need to take my mind off the stupid-idity going on right now.
Do you mean to say 'Ganda Hendathi' is for wide section of audience?
Definitely! Even if it is adult certificate, the boys and girls, married couple and the elders can view this film for message in it. It is not enough if you tie the Mangalasutra. In case the husband and wife step on different path what happens in life is the theme of this film. The film has meaningful end.
Source
His remarks remind me of the time when, just before Showgirls was released, Joe Eszterhas urged underage kids to use their fake IDs to sneak in so that they wouldn't miss the film's "message", or some such hilarity. Maybe it's just my family, but I can't imagine any of my older relatives, parents included, sticking around long enough to decipher "the message" behind Thilak and Sanjana's numerous--and often eyebrow-raising(for me, anyway)--make out sessions. For instance, the scene where Thilak smears ice cream on Sanjana's face and licks it off would be enough to make them vow to never watch another movie with me again.
I, for the most part, don't have a problem with skin show, so I enjoyed the movie. **grin** I mean, how could I not love an unintentionally funny, almost scene-by-scene, song-by-song rip-off of Murder? As soon as I saw Thilak fake falling to his equally fake death in front of an obvious blue screen, I knew that my $9.93 had been well-spent.
I would describe Ganda Hendathi as "awesomely bad, and delighfully sleazy". For me, it's right up there with Hawas(2004) and Fun(Can Be Dangerous Sometime) in terms of unrepentant skeazyness. Murder may have had better production values, but I like the Thilak-Sanjana pairing better than the Emraan-Mallika one. The former appeared to genuinely enjoy each other(although, a couple of times, Sanjana appeared hesitant and/or uncomfortable). If they actually hated one another during filming, then they're better actors than I initially thought.
"Oho Nasheyo" and "Nidiregu Raja" don't get stuck in my head as often as their respective Hindi counterparts, "Kaho Na Kaho" and "Bheegey Hont", so I'm automatically partial to them. Plus, the picturisations are sexier and more in-yer-face(e.g the ice cream licking scene I mentioned earlier).
Sanjana is cute, but I wish she'd ditch the blue contact lenses. Yeah, they're her eyeballs and she can stick whatever she wants on them, but personally, I prefer the way she looks with her natural eye color.
I...like Thilak, to put it delicately. And his hair makes him look like "he belongs in a Pantene commercial", to quote a YouTube commenter.
Vishal Hegde looked like such a sad sack with his flat hair and specs that I felt sorry for him. At least he wasn't quite as forgettable as Ashmit Patel. (I have nothing against Ashmit, really, it's just that I honestly forget that he was in Murder.)
I think I'll watch this tonight. I need to take my mind off the stupid-idity going on right now.
Dum(2003)
The scene where Rakshita attempts suicide by slashing her wrist immediately brought to mind the saying, "Remember kids, it's down the road, not across the street." (Emphasis mine.) I just thought I'd mention that, 'cause I'm a sick fuck. Anyway...
I obsessively watched and rewatched this movie last week. I don't know why. I guess I was just in the mood for mindless-yet-still-entertaining-to-me fare. **shrug** I often get this movie confused with Kuthu because the plots are similar, and the heroines in both films are Kannadithis.
I believe this was the third Simbu movie I ordered after discovering him in Vallavan. I like it mainly because the character he plays reminds me of some of the guys I had crushes on in high school. I don't recall any of them having pocket knives, but I'm sure they carried concealed weapons of some sort. **chuckle**
Rakshita was also the heroine in the Kannada and Telugu versions of this film(Appu and Idiot, respectively). I thought she looked really beautiful and sexy, but there were times when I wanted to scrape the pancake off her face. And while I don't mind a woman having meat on her bones, I felt she was a little too fleshy for some of the outfits she wore.
I find Ashish Vidyarthi hot in a FILF kind of way. However, he's becoming the new Prakash Raj in the sense that he seems to pop up in nearly every movie I own or have watched online.
I obsessively watched and rewatched this movie last week. I don't know why. I guess I was just in the mood for mindless-yet-still-entertaining-to-me fare. **shrug** I often get this movie confused with Kuthu because the plots are similar, and the heroines in both films are Kannadithis.
I believe this was the third Simbu movie I ordered after discovering him in Vallavan. I like it mainly because the character he plays reminds me of some of the guys I had crushes on in high school. I don't recall any of them having pocket knives, but I'm sure they carried concealed weapons of some sort. **chuckle**
Rakshita was also the heroine in the Kannada and Telugu versions of this film(Appu and Idiot, respectively). I thought she looked really beautiful and sexy, but there were times when I wanted to scrape the pancake off her face. And while I don't mind a woman having meat on her bones, I felt she was a little too fleshy for some of the outfits she wore.
I find Ashish Vidyarthi hot in a FILF kind of way. However, he's becoming the new Prakash Raj in the sense that he seems to pop up in nearly every movie I own or have watched online.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Nishabd(2007)
AKA "I Feel Blue. So Very, Very Blue."
The relentless blue tones were pretty at first, but after a while, my eyes started to hurt and I wanted to tell RGV to knock it off.
Speaking of RGV, he obviously has a thing for a woman's legs and feet. The numerous shots of Jiah Khan's lower limbs reminded me of his obsession with Antara Mali's gams and peds in Naach.
I think Jiah Khan is a pretentious bitch(pot, meet kettle), but I like her. She has an unusual look that I find appealing. And I love her hair. I swear, if I had either her or Mallika's tresses, I'd get whiplash from flinging my head around so much.
Ms. Khan is the sole reason I bought the movie. Acting-wise, I thought she did fine. More than likely, she was just playing herself, with a few minor edits. At times, her character brought to mind Drew Barrymore's in Poison Ivy, particularly during the scene where she playfully drags Shraddha Arya into the shower with her. (Which is weird, because there wasn't any such scene in Poison Ivy, but there ya go.)
Quick thoughts about the other actors:
Amitabh Bachchan - He acted well and fit the part. I got the same "Ohhhhh, I wish he were MY daddy!" feelings I had when I watched Aetbaar.
Shraddha Arya - Facially, she reminds me of someone, but I can't think of who, and it's driving me nuts.
Revathy/Revathi - I remember her from Oru Kaithiyin Diary, Thevar Magan, Iruvar, Thoondil, and Dil Jo Bhi Kahey. I wish I had ordered Punnagai Mannan when it was available from India Weekly.
It's been close to a year since I last watched this movie. Typing about it makes me consider digging it out from wherever it is and rewatching it.
The relentless blue tones were pretty at first, but after a while, my eyes started to hurt and I wanted to tell RGV to knock it off.
Speaking of RGV, he obviously has a thing for a woman's legs and feet. The numerous shots of Jiah Khan's lower limbs reminded me of his obsession with Antara Mali's gams and peds in Naach.
I think Jiah Khan is a pretentious bitch(pot, meet kettle), but I like her. She has an unusual look that I find appealing. And I love her hair. I swear, if I had either her or Mallika's tresses, I'd get whiplash from flinging my head around so much.
Ms. Khan is the sole reason I bought the movie. Acting-wise, I thought she did fine. More than likely, she was just playing herself, with a few minor edits. At times, her character brought to mind Drew Barrymore's in Poison Ivy, particularly during the scene where she playfully drags Shraddha Arya into the shower with her. (Which is weird, because there wasn't any such scene in Poison Ivy, but there ya go.)
Quick thoughts about the other actors:
Amitabh Bachchan - He acted well and fit the part. I got the same "Ohhhhh, I wish he were MY daddy!" feelings I had when I watched Aetbaar.
Shraddha Arya - Facially, she reminds me of someone, but I can't think of who, and it's driving me nuts.
Revathy/Revathi - I remember her from Oru Kaithiyin Diary, Thevar Magan, Iruvar, Thoondil, and Dil Jo Bhi Kahey. I wish I had ordered Punnagai Mannan when it was available from India Weekly.
It's been close to a year since I last watched this movie. Typing about it makes me consider digging it out from wherever it is and rewatching it.
Monday, December 1, 2008
Tum? A Dangerous Obsession(2004)
The opening credits were cool, and the first half was not-bad, but the second hour took a nosedive after Karan Nath's character got bumped off. And the actual killer's motive? Totally laughable considering that I knew from the get-go that he couldn't care less about a vagina.
Manisha had moments of her former prettiness, but still looked a few years older than her actual age at the time(32? 33?). I don't know if she was made up to appear that way, or if the drugs and alcohol had already taken a toll on her face.
Karan Nath was cute, but to say that he sucks as an actor would be an understatement. The scene where he's all wild-eyed and puffing on a cigarette while trying to contact Manisha is not to be missed.
How/why Karan became obsessed with Manisha remains a mystery to me. I would suggest that it was because of her stellar bedroom skills, but she was passed out drunk during the encounter, so...
Natanya Singh was too heavy and too tarty-looking for me to believe she was a fashion model. I know this is a movie and it doesn't necessarily have to be realistic, but still...no.
Despite its stupidity, this movie was in my "watchably bad" pile for the longest time. What can I say? I have a soft spot for idiotic films(well, some of them). The more skeazy and/or unintentionally hilarious a particular flick is, the more I tend to love it.
Manisha had moments of her former prettiness, but still looked a few years older than her actual age at the time(32? 33?). I don't know if she was made up to appear that way, or if the drugs and alcohol had already taken a toll on her face.
Karan Nath was cute, but to say that he sucks as an actor would be an understatement. The scene where he's all wild-eyed and puffing on a cigarette while trying to contact Manisha is not to be missed.
How/why Karan became obsessed with Manisha remains a mystery to me. I would suggest that it was because of her stellar bedroom skills, but she was passed out drunk during the encounter, so...
Natanya Singh was too heavy and too tarty-looking for me to believe she was a fashion model. I know this is a movie and it doesn't necessarily have to be realistic, but still...no.
Despite its stupidity, this movie was in my "watchably bad" pile for the longest time. What can I say? I have a soft spot for idiotic films(well, some of them). The more skeazy and/or unintentionally hilarious a particular flick is, the more I tend to love it.
E(2005)
I like Nayantara, but I found her character, Jyothy, so irritating. During the scene where E(Jeeva) beats her, I seriously wanted to join in. I guess I should've appreciated how she was trying to reform him, but her Jiminy Cricket act only made me roll my eyes and wish that less screen time had been devoted to her and that stupid gold chain. In Nayan's defense, however, she did look pretty, and I liked the "Kala Kala Kalai" number(although, she lacked the body and the dance moves to really pull it off).
I'm still on the fence about E's change of heart near the end. I liked his "anything for money" attitude and seemingly unredeemable nature, and wasn't too thrilled with how he suddenly developed a conscience several minutes before the closing credits. On one hand, it "had" to happen since he discovered how his grandmother and Jyothy's sister died, but on the other hand, it felt too abrupt. I think Dr. Ramakrishnan's(Ashish Vidyarti) machinations should've been revealed to E. sooner. **shrug**
Complaints aside, I think E is a pretty good timepass. I've rewatched it enough to have gotten my money's worth. **wry grin**
I'm still on the fence about E's change of heart near the end. I liked his "anything for money" attitude and seemingly unredeemable nature, and wasn't too thrilled with how he suddenly developed a conscience several minutes before the closing credits. On one hand, it "had" to happen since he discovered how his grandmother and Jyothy's sister died, but on the other hand, it felt too abrupt. I think Dr. Ramakrishnan's(Ashish Vidyarti) machinations should've been revealed to E. sooner. **shrug**
Complaints aside, I think E is a pretty good timepass. I've rewatched it enough to have gotten my money's worth. **wry grin**
Rock N Roll(2007)
Or, "Things I Think About Just Before I Have To Get Up".
I tried to watch this about a year ago. For some reason, I thought it would be good--or rather, I hoped it would be good since Lakshmi Rai was in it. I like her, even though I've never seen any of her films. Rock N Roll would've been the first, but I gave up after a few minutes. As soon as I saw Mohanlal's ponytail, the whole movie went downhill for me. (There's just something about a middle-aged man sporting a ponytail that triggers my "Ugh!" reflex.) But now I'm thinking I should give it a second chance. Just ignore the ponytail and wait for Lakshmi to appear onscreen. Maybe I'll do that--if it's still online, that is.
ETA: I ordered it, along with Black Cat. I hope I don't regret my purchases. **wry smile** I was desperate to spend money, and it's taking forever for the Ayngaran version of Kuruvi to be in stock. Plus, I "need" more fodder for this blog, hahahaha.
ETA2: I don't regret either of my purchases. They were both watchable, although right now, I'm leaning toward Black Cat as being the more entertaining of the two. Maybe I will elaborate further on each film when/if I can come up with something semi-coherent.
I tried to watch this about a year ago. For some reason, I thought it would be good--or rather, I hoped it would be good since Lakshmi Rai was in it. I like her, even though I've never seen any of her films. Rock N Roll would've been the first, but I gave up after a few minutes. As soon as I saw Mohanlal's ponytail, the whole movie went downhill for me. (There's just something about a middle-aged man sporting a ponytail that triggers my "Ugh!" reflex.) But now I'm thinking I should give it a second chance. Just ignore the ponytail and wait for Lakshmi to appear onscreen. Maybe I'll do that--if it's still online, that is.
ETA: I ordered it, along with Black Cat. I hope I don't regret my purchases. **wry smile** I was desperate to spend money, and it's taking forever for the Ayngaran version of Kuruvi to be in stock. Plus, I "need" more fodder for this blog, hahahaha.
ETA2: I don't regret either of my purchases. They were both watchable, although right now, I'm leaning toward Black Cat as being the more entertaining of the two. Maybe I will elaborate further on each film when/if I can come up with something semi-coherent.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Kadhaparayumbol(2007)
Remade in Tamil as Kuselan, and in Hindi as Billo Barber.
I watched about forty minutes before directing my attention elsewhere. I have a feeling it might be another Rathri Mazha in the sense that on the first viewing, I'm not totally into it, but after seeing it multiple times I grow to love it.
I'm still not sure I want to pay $15 for the DVD. I'm afraid that shortly after I order it, it will be marked down to like, $7.99.
I'll have to come back to this later.
I watched about forty minutes before directing my attention elsewhere. I have a feeling it might be another Rathri Mazha in the sense that on the first viewing, I'm not totally into it, but after seeing it multiple times I grow to love it.
I'm still not sure I want to pay $15 for the DVD. I'm afraid that shortly after I order it, it will be marked down to like, $7.99.
I'll have to come back to this later.
Totti Jaya(2005)
To paraphrase a YouTube commenter, "I like [Totti Jaya] because [Simbu] is QUIET!" **chuckle** While I find Simbu's finger-waving and overconfidence amusing and a turn-on at times, his laconic performance in this film is a refreshing change from his usual over-the-top, chatterbox antics in movies like Dum, Kuthu, Kadhal Azhivathilai, and Vallavan. He'll never be a great actor, but when he's not mimicking Rajnikanth or T. Rajendar, he can be pretty good. I wish he'd spend more time honing his acting skills than trying to live up to that silly "Little Superstar" moniker.
Speaking of which, the absence of his customary "Little Superstar Simbu" intro was another welcome relief. I think it should be bumped from of ALL of his future releases.
Gopika didn't have much to do except cry and/or look scared.
Linda Arsenio makes an appearance in the "Yaari Singari" song. (Totally pointless info: whenever I have this movie on before I go to sleep, I almost always wake up during that segment.)
Speaking of which, the absence of his customary "Little Superstar Simbu" intro was another welcome relief. I think it should be bumped from of ALL of his future releases.
Gopika didn't have much to do except cry and/or look scared.
Linda Arsenio makes an appearance in the "Yaari Singari" song. (Totally pointless info: whenever I have this movie on before I go to sleep, I almost always wake up during that segment.)
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Kabul Express(2006)
"Oh! I didn't realize we had a choice here! Let's see...kabobs for breakfast, kabobs for lunch and, mmmmmm, kabobs for dinner. And oh, if you want a snack, kabobs again!"
Linda Arsenio's laughably bad delivery of those lines ranks right up there with Elizabeth Berkley angrily flinging her french fries and shrieking, "Different places!" in Showgirls. I'm so glad Linda was the only gori willing to go to Afghanistan. Her nonexistent thespian skills were a never-ending source of amusement for me. Had a more talented actress been cast, I probably wouldn't have enjoyed the movie as much.
Her looks were an added bonus. She and John Abraham provided nice eye candy. I paid more attention to them than I did to the movie. Shallow, I know, but I'm usually not inclined to watch a so-called "serious" film unless there are good-looking actors involved. That way, if I get bored trying to follow the plot, I can shift my attention to the pretty faces on my TV screen.
Linda Arsenio's laughably bad delivery of those lines ranks right up there with Elizabeth Berkley angrily flinging her french fries and shrieking, "Different places!" in Showgirls. I'm so glad Linda was the only gori willing to go to Afghanistan. Her nonexistent thespian skills were a never-ending source of amusement for me. Had a more talented actress been cast, I probably wouldn't have enjoyed the movie as much.
Her looks were an added bonus. She and John Abraham provided nice eye candy. I paid more attention to them than I did to the movie. Shallow, I know, but I'm usually not inclined to watch a so-called "serious" film unless there are good-looking actors involved. That way, if I get bored trying to follow the plot, I can shift my attention to the pretty faces on my TV screen.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Kana Kanden(2005)
I got this mainly for the "Chinna Ponnu Sonna Kelu" item number with Linda Arsenio. I honestly think it's the best part of the movie :) I like the way it's picturised, and I wish I knew how to download the song 'cause it's hot.
As for the movie itself, it was pretty good. The three leads--Srikanth, Gopika, Prithviraj--acted well, but I was partial to Prithviraj's character because of his deceptively affable demeanor. I swear I read somewhere--on another blog, perhaps?--that Kana Kanden is based on a novel, and that in the book, Madan(Prithviraj) begins charging Archana(Gopika) "consultation fees" from the day of their first meeting, and includes that amount in her and Bhaskar's(Srikanth) total debt. If that's true, I wish that had been used in the movie, because it would've highlighted just how ruthless a loan shark he was. (Maybe the scene where Madan gives Archana his cell phone as a "gift" was an allusion to that particular passage. **shrug**)
As for the movie itself, it was pretty good. The three leads--Srikanth, Gopika, Prithviraj--acted well, but I was partial to Prithviraj's character because of his deceptively affable demeanor. I swear I read somewhere--on another blog, perhaps?--that Kana Kanden is based on a novel, and that in the book, Madan(Prithviraj) begins charging Archana(Gopika) "consultation fees" from the day of their first meeting, and includes that amount in her and Bhaskar's(Srikanth) total debt. If that's true, I wish that had been used in the movie, because it would've highlighted just how ruthless a loan shark he was. (Maybe the scene where Madan gives Archana his cell phone as a "gift" was an allusion to that particular passage. **shrug**)
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Makeup(2002)
I've had an unhealthy fascination with Laila Patel--now Sanaa/Saana Khan--since I first spotted her in Woh. I couldn't stop staring at her slightly cockeyed, heavily pancaked visage. I wondered what happened to her since Woh was DOA at the box office. One day, I was browsing the web and came across an article that mentioned her role in the Kannada film, Makeup, opposite Jaggesh. The VCD was listed on anytamil, but at the time, I had neither a computer or a DVD player that recognized VCDs, so I couldn't order it. Two years later, I now have all three.
Makeup is the desi version of Big Momma's House. I thought it was decent. Not great, but not a total waste of $9.93 either. I was already familar with the plot, and I knew better than to have high expectations, so I wasn't disappointed. As I blogged elsewhere, "The leading man, Jaggesh, isn’t exactly a heartthrob, but I managed to tolerate him. And I found Laila Patel appealing, man-in-drag appearance and all. I even thought she looked pretty in a few shots."
Makeup seems to be Laila's--now Saana's-- first and last foray down south. I don't know if she received additional offers from south producers, but if she didn't, I'm not suprised. She doesn't have the looks to be a mainstream heroine. She's more C-grade skin flick material.
Aside: Speaking of which, her upcoming Hindi film, Wafaa, is with the badly aged Rajesh Khanna. I watched the trailer and I must confess, the bedroom scene made my stomach turn. Not just because of the obvious age difference, but also because Rajesh looked like he didn't know what the hell he was doing.
As for Laila/Saana, I thought she looked nice in traditional clothes. At some angles, she resembled fellow Pak actress Meera(Nazar, Kasak). But while I was able to somewhat handle her May-December pairing in Makeup, I know I won't be able to sit through however many scenes there are of her canoodling with Rajesh, so Wafaa is a no-go.
Back to Makeup: I forgot to mention, the songs are nice. "Dimple Dimple" is my favorite, followed by "Jaka Jaka Janaka".
Makeup is the desi version of Big Momma's House. I thought it was decent. Not great, but not a total waste of $9.93 either. I was already familar with the plot, and I knew better than to have high expectations, so I wasn't disappointed. As I blogged elsewhere, "The leading man, Jaggesh, isn’t exactly a heartthrob, but I managed to tolerate him. And I found Laila Patel appealing, man-in-drag appearance and all. I even thought she looked pretty in a few shots."
Makeup seems to be Laila's--now Saana's-- first and last foray down south. I don't know if she received additional offers from south producers, but if she didn't, I'm not suprised. She doesn't have the looks to be a mainstream heroine. She's more C-grade skin flick material.
Aside: Speaking of which, her upcoming Hindi film, Wafaa, is with the badly aged Rajesh Khanna. I watched the trailer and I must confess, the bedroom scene made my stomach turn. Not just because of the obvious age difference, but also because Rajesh looked like he didn't know what the hell he was doing.
As for Laila/Saana, I thought she looked nice in traditional clothes. At some angles, she resembled fellow Pak actress Meera(Nazar, Kasak). But while I was able to somewhat handle her May-December pairing in Makeup, I know I won't be able to sit through however many scenes there are of her canoodling with Rajesh, so Wafaa is a no-go.
Back to Makeup: I forgot to mention, the songs are nice. "Dimple Dimple" is my favorite, followed by "Jaka Jaka Janaka".
Monday, November 17, 2008
Aayiram Kannukal(1986)
I wish I could curl up in bed and watch this. I wonder if anytamil has it in stock.
Was the plot--Shobhana dreams about murders before they happen--lifted from Eyes of Laura Mars?
Shobhana is gorgeous. These days, whenever I see her name, I'm reminded of how she was supposedly one of the four heroines in the now-shelved Marmayogi. (Another reminder: Dance Like A Man - the DVD is available from Nehaflix. If it were $8 less, I'd buy it.)
Mammootty looks nearly the same now as he did back in the eighties.
Was the plot--Shobhana dreams about murders before they happen--lifted from Eyes of Laura Mars?
Shobhana is gorgeous. These days, whenever I see her name, I'm reminded of how she was supposedly one of the four heroines in the now-shelved Marmayogi. (Another reminder: Dance Like A Man - the DVD is available from Nehaflix. If it were $8 less, I'd buy it.)
Mammootty looks nearly the same now as he did back in the eighties.
Takkari Donga(2002)
Did a quick flip-through the chapters to make sure I didn't have another defective disc on my hands.
In most scenes, Bipasha Basu's skin tone is so bleached out, it's practically yellow. I assume that has to do with the type of film that was used, because Mahesh Babu and Lisa Ray were sporting a similar look.
Was Bipasha that thin at the time of shooting, or were "Promise of a New Day"-type camera tricks used? I prefer her meatier appearance in Jism.
I'm not sure why I bought this movie, but I hope I like it.
Unrelated: Prithviraj looks rather handome in Classmates. (I'm doing a flip-through of this one, too.) In Kana Kanden, he didn't do anything for me, but looking at him now, I'm tempted to check out more of his films.
Kavya reminds me of Asin for some strange reason.
ETA 01/22/10: I tried to watch this movie, but I can't get into it. Skipping chapters doesn't help, either. I dig the cowboy getup, but not even the sight of Mahesh could convince me to keep this movie in my DVD player.
ETA 02/28/10: Last night, I gave it another chance and actually kept the disc in my DVD player long enough for a couple of re-watches. I'm not crazy about the movie as a whole but some of the song picturisations are nice. "Aleba Aleba" is my favorite, especially 1:34 to 1:54 ;) I liked Bips and Mahesh together. Minus the flood lighting and with a few more pounds, she would've been perfect. Lisa Ray was pretty but not as alluring as Bipasha. The outtakes during the end credits were fun to watch, as was Mahesh in that cowboy outfit. I'm not a fan of westerns but I could look at him in that getup all day.
In most scenes, Bipasha Basu's skin tone is so bleached out, it's practically yellow. I assume that has to do with the type of film that was used, because Mahesh Babu and Lisa Ray were sporting a similar look.
Was Bipasha that thin at the time of shooting, or were "Promise of a New Day"-type camera tricks used? I prefer her meatier appearance in Jism.
I'm not sure why I bought this movie, but I hope I like it.
Unrelated: Prithviraj looks rather handome in Classmates. (I'm doing a flip-through of this one, too.) In Kana Kanden, he didn't do anything for me, but looking at him now, I'm tempted to check out more of his films.
Kavya reminds me of Asin for some strange reason.
ETA 01/22/10: I tried to watch this movie, but I can't get into it. Skipping chapters doesn't help, either. I dig the cowboy getup, but not even the sight of Mahesh could convince me to keep this movie in my DVD player.
ETA 02/28/10: Last night, I gave it another chance and actually kept the disc in my DVD player long enough for a couple of re-watches. I'm not crazy about the movie as a whole but some of the song picturisations are nice. "Aleba Aleba" is my favorite, especially 1:34 to 1:54 ;) I liked Bips and Mahesh together. Minus the flood lighting and with a few more pounds, she would've been perfect. Lisa Ray was pretty but not as alluring as Bipasha. The outtakes during the end credits were fun to watch, as was Mahesh in that cowboy outfit. I'm not a fan of westerns but I could look at him in that getup all day.
Murder(2004)
I decided to type a quick post about this movie because 1) "Kaho Na Kaho" and "Bheegey Hont" refuse to get out of my head, and 2) I'm in the process of putting together my thoughts about the Kannada remake, Ganda Hendathi.
I can't remember if I watched this movie before or after Khwahish. I think it was after. Anyway, I thought it was okay. I liked the first half better than the second. The two things that stuck out the most for me were Mallika's resemblance to Halle Berry and her(Mallika's) shiny, bouncy tresses. She seriously has great hair. I want the name and phone number of her hairstylist.
I wasn't into Emraan Hashmi at this point(it took several viewings of Zeher for that), so I didn't pay much attention to him, but I think I may have thought he was cute.
I keep forgetting that Ashmit Patel was in this movie. It's like, "Oh yeah, Ashmit Patel. He played the husband." I remember him more from Nazar than I do this film.
I thought the seduction scene was hot, but when Emraan and Mallika started kissing, she opened her mouth so wide, I was afraid she was going to swallow him whole.
I became aware of and interested in Mallika after reading her boastful remarks on several internet sites when Murder became a hit. I liked her outspokenness and dare-bare act. The fact that she's a thirtysomething divorcée with a reputation for being a bitch only makes her more endearing to me. No matter how many braggadocious claims she makes, or tantrums she throws, or movies of hers that flop, I think I will always have a soft spot for Ms. Sherawat(née Lamba).
I can't remember if I watched this movie before or after Khwahish. I think it was after. Anyway, I thought it was okay. I liked the first half better than the second. The two things that stuck out the most for me were Mallika's resemblance to Halle Berry and her(Mallika's) shiny, bouncy tresses. She seriously has great hair. I want the name and phone number of her hairstylist.
I wasn't into Emraan Hashmi at this point(it took several viewings of Zeher for that), so I didn't pay much attention to him, but I think I may have thought he was cute.
I keep forgetting that Ashmit Patel was in this movie. It's like, "Oh yeah, Ashmit Patel. He played the husband." I remember him more from Nazar than I do this film.
I thought the seduction scene was hot, but when Emraan and Mallika started kissing, she opened her mouth so wide, I was afraid she was going to swallow him whole.
I became aware of and interested in Mallika after reading her boastful remarks on several internet sites when Murder became a hit. I liked her outspokenness and dare-bare act. The fact that she's a thirtysomething divorcée with a reputation for being a bitch only makes her more endearing to me. No matter how many braggadocious claims she makes, or tantrums she throws, or movies of hers that flop, I think I will always have a soft spot for Ms. Sherawat(née Lamba).
Friday, November 14, 2008
Japanil Kalyanaraman(1985)
Sequel to the 1979 film Kalyanaraman. I thought of this movie as I watched the video for "Appappa Thiththikkum" on YouTube. I usually try to avoid sequels, but out of curiosity I gave this one a look-see. While I would recommend the original Kalyanaraman(Sridevi rules!), I found the follow-up sufficiently entertaining. I liked the foreign locale(Japan), the fight scenes, the chemistry between Kamal Hassan and Radha, and Radha's overly made-up look. And the aforementioned "Appappa Thiththikkum" makes me seriously nostalgic for the eighties. (Don't ask why, it just does.)
Aside: The scene where Kamal's son quietly slips out of bed so that Kamal and Radha, who were lying on either side of him, can move closer together triggered a hazy childhood memory. I think I was about five, and I was sitting between my parents, in bed, blabbering something about a prince and a princess(or maybe it was a king and a queen, I don't remember), and at the end, I joined their hands together. The funny part is that they just kept staring at the TV. I doubt they even heard me, or were aware of what I did.
Aside: The scene where Kamal's son quietly slips out of bed so that Kamal and Radha, who were lying on either side of him, can move closer together triggered a hazy childhood memory. I think I was about five, and I was sitting between my parents, in bed, blabbering something about a prince and a princess(or maybe it was a king and a queen, I don't remember), and at the end, I joined their hands together. The funny part is that they just kept staring at the TV. I doubt they even heard me, or were aware of what I did.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Madanolsavam(1978)
Rich-boy-loves-poor-girl-who-later-dies-of-a-terminal-illness. This film, like Prem Geet and Khwahish, appears to have been "inspired by" Love Story. It was a bit overly melodramatic for even me, and I wish I could've taken an axe to the comedy scenes(I'm not really a fan of comedy tracks, or comedy in general, unless it has a dark or sarcastic slant to it), but aside from those minus points, I liked it. This would be the perfect movie to watch while lounging in bed, but it doesn't appear to be commercially available--in or to the U.S., that is--on either DVD or VCD.
Zarina Wahab is a dead ringer for Kangana Ranaut, which I find ironic(is that the right word?) considering that Kangana allegedly had an affair with Zarina's husband, Aditya Pancholi. She's also the only actress who I didn't think looked ridiculous wearing pigtails and hair bows. Normally, I hate that style on grown women because to me, it often looks a tad pornish.
The songs are melodious. "Sandhye Kannerithenthe" is my favorite, and I swear there's an English song that sounds similar to "Ee Malarkanyakal", but I can't recall the name. Maybe I'm just imagining things.
Oh, and another thing I wanted to take an axe to: the numerous bike riding shots. I wanted someone to steal that bike so that I wouldn't have to look at it anymore. I seriously think it had almost as much screen time as the two leads.
I liked how color coordinated Kamal and Zarina were at the end. He wore a white shirt and white pants, she was in a white hospital gown, covered with a white sheet, and resting her head against a white pillowcase.
Zarina Wahab is a dead ringer for Kangana Ranaut, which I find ironic(is that the right word?) considering that Kangana allegedly had an affair with Zarina's husband, Aditya Pancholi. She's also the only actress who I didn't think looked ridiculous wearing pigtails and hair bows. Normally, I hate that style on grown women because to me, it often looks a tad pornish.
The songs are melodious. "Sandhye Kannerithenthe" is my favorite, and I swear there's an English song that sounds similar to "Ee Malarkanyakal", but I can't recall the name. Maybe I'm just imagining things.
Oh, and another thing I wanted to take an axe to: the numerous bike riding shots. I wanted someone to steal that bike so that I wouldn't have to look at it anymore. I seriously think it had almost as much screen time as the two leads.
I liked how color coordinated Kamal and Zarina were at the end. He wore a white shirt and white pants, she was in a white hospital gown, covered with a white sheet, and resting her head against a white pillowcase.
Chanthupottu(2005)
Oh hai, defective DVD! Froze at the 56:04 mark. Should I order another one? Part of me is afraid that the replacement copy will be just as bad, or worse(i.e. it won't play at all).
I found Dileep even more appealing as a transvestite. Some of his mannerisms immediately brought to mind Johnny Lever's character in Anjaam(the only movie in which I thought he was funny, BTW). Acting-wise, I thought he did a good job, and he and Gopika made a lovely couple. (Yeah, I have an obsession with couples.) Dileep's gender bending made their relationship especially erotic.
Too bad I couldn't view this movie in its entirety. Bhavana, my latest "Actress to Check Out", is in it as well, and I would've liked to have seen her. Bah!
Just when I was having a good run of luck with non-defective DVDs, Sainikudu and this one had to fuck up on me. **sigh**
I found Dileep even more appealing as a transvestite. Some of his mannerisms immediately brought to mind Johnny Lever's character in Anjaam(the only movie in which I thought he was funny, BTW). Acting-wise, I thought he did a good job, and he and Gopika made a lovely couple. (Yeah, I have an obsession with couples.) Dileep's gender bending made their relationship especially erotic.
Too bad I couldn't view this movie in its entirety. Bhavana, my latest "Actress to Check Out", is in it as well, and I would've liked to have seen her. Bah!
Just when I was having a good run of luck with non-defective DVDs, Sainikudu and this one had to fuck up on me. **sigh**
Rathri Mazha(2008)
I'm going to have to come back to this, because it was a little too heavy for me to try to watch in one sitting. But here are my thoughts so far:
Vineeth and Meera Jasmine looked like members of the Blue Man Group in the opening scenes. I kept thinking, "Blue blobs, blue blobs, their faces look like BLUE BLOBS!" I don't know if the picture quality of the DVD is THAT bad, or if they were lit that way on purpose.
Talking to the camera: DO NOT LIKE!
Was there a bit of meta(?) involved when Meera's character, whose name was also Meera, says that Mammootty is her favorite actor? I immediately thought of how they worked together in Ore Kadal and wondered if she was making a winking reference to that.
"Dowry is hidden in the term 'appropriate family background'"--haha I like that!
Vineeth looks better in stills than he does on film.
This might take a while to grow on me.
ETA: I had it on repeat the other night, and I think some of it may have sunk in while I was sleeping because when I re-watched it yesterday, I definitely appreciated it more than I did on my first viewing.
I still think Vineeth looks better in pics, but when he wore glasses, I found him quite handsome. I wish there had been more scenes of him dancing. From what was shown, he appears to be a very beautiful and sensual dancer.
Vineeth and Meera Jasmine looked like members of the Blue Man Group in the opening scenes. I kept thinking, "Blue blobs, blue blobs, their faces look like BLUE BLOBS!" I don't know if the picture quality of the DVD is THAT bad, or if they were lit that way on purpose.
Talking to the camera: DO NOT LIKE!
Was there a bit of meta(?) involved when Meera's character, whose name was also Meera, says that Mammootty is her favorite actor? I immediately thought of how they worked together in Ore Kadal and wondered if she was making a winking reference to that.
"Dowry is hidden in the term 'appropriate family background'"--haha I like that!
Vineeth looks better in stills than he does on film.
This might take a while to grow on me.
ETA: I had it on repeat the other night, and I think some of it may have sunk in while I was sleeping because when I re-watched it yesterday, I definitely appreciated it more than I did on my first viewing.
I still think Vineeth looks better in pics, but when he wore glasses, I found him quite handsome. I wish there had been more scenes of him dancing. From what was shown, he appears to be a very beautiful and sensual dancer.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Sachein(2005)
Or, "How I Learned to Stop Being Close-Minded and Like Vijay".
Prior to watching this film, I wasn't feeling Vijay. I was hesitant to watch any movie in which he starred because I didn't think I could tolerate him. But on a whim, I decided to view Sachein, mainly because I had developed an interest in Genelia D'Souza and wanted to check her out(uh, that didn't come out the way I intended, but whatever). I found Vijay suprisingly likeable, and over time, he grew on me to the point where I wished I hadn't been so quick to write him off.
If I took a shot every time Genelia said "Shut up!", I'd be dead from alcohol poisoning before the movie ended.
Bipasha Basu's brief, inconsequential role still has me wondering why she was cast in the first place. My guess is that the makers felt there "had" to be a rival for Vijay's affections, and they wanted someone who they hoped would draw a large crowd. I'm glad I didn't take a quick nap after the interval; otherwise, I would've missed her.
Linda Arsenio(Kabul Express) is a lousy actress even when you can't hear her speak. However, I must admit, she looked very pretty(but still phoren, in spite of her dark hair and dubbed Thamizh) in the "Vaadi Vaadi" song. If she hadn't decided to try her luck in Bollywood, she probably would've become the go-to firangi item girl in the south.
Despite the slow pace, unnecessary fight scenes, and utter predictability, I liked this movie. You just have to shut off your brain and go along for the ride.
Prior to watching this film, I wasn't feeling Vijay. I was hesitant to watch any movie in which he starred because I didn't think I could tolerate him. But on a whim, I decided to view Sachein, mainly because I had developed an interest in Genelia D'Souza and wanted to check her out(uh, that didn't come out the way I intended, but whatever). I found Vijay suprisingly likeable, and over time, he grew on me to the point where I wished I hadn't been so quick to write him off.
If I took a shot every time Genelia said "Shut up!", I'd be dead from alcohol poisoning before the movie ended.
Bipasha Basu's brief, inconsequential role still has me wondering why she was cast in the first place. My guess is that the makers felt there "had" to be a rival for Vijay's affections, and they wanted someone who they hoped would draw a large crowd. I'm glad I didn't take a quick nap after the interval; otherwise, I would've missed her.
Linda Arsenio(Kabul Express) is a lousy actress even when you can't hear her speak. However, I must admit, she looked very pretty(but still phoren, in spite of her dark hair and dubbed Thamizh) in the "Vaadi Vaadi" song. If she hadn't decided to try her luck in Bollywood, she probably would've become the go-to firangi item girl in the south.
Despite the slow pace, unnecessary fight scenes, and utter predictability, I liked this movie. You just have to shut off your brain and go along for the ride.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Aaja Nachle(2007)
Less than twenty minutes into this movie, I found myself agreeing with Filmfare writer Jitesh Pillaai: "Aaja Nachle didn't work because they took the queen of hearts and didn't have any romance for her. They took the biggest chartbuster called Madhuri and then came up with an inspid musical score. They took the dancing queen and gave her awfully choreographed sequences..."
I'm a Sridevi stan, but I think Madhuri is lovely and a wonderful dancer, and I was curious to see how she fared in her comeback vehicle. But aside from the opening shots of Madz in a New York dance studio, I was unable to appreciate the antiquated feel of this flick. Normally, I'm a sucker for just about anything that looks and/or sounds like a throwback to the eighties, but Aaja Nachle is too outdated for even me.
Pity, since I seriously considered buying this. I guess I'll spend my money on Classmates instead.
I'm a Sridevi stan, but I think Madhuri is lovely and a wonderful dancer, and I was curious to see how she fared in her comeback vehicle. But aside from the opening shots of Madz in a New York dance studio, I was unable to appreciate the antiquated feel of this flick. Normally, I'm a sucker for just about anything that looks and/or sounds like a throwback to the eighties, but Aaja Nachle is too outdated for even me.
Pity, since I seriously considered buying this. I guess I'll spend my money on Classmates instead.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Pandi(2008)
I am such a masochist. I watched nearly the entire movie before my common sense finally kicked in and screamed, "ENOUGH! Switch it off! Switch it off!"
The opening shots of Lawrence performing menial jobs around Dubai piqued my interest, but it quickly waned after the movie went into flashback mode to Lawrence's earlier days as a carefree youth in his village.
I will give Lawrence a kudo for trying his damndest to act like a hero in spite of having neither the looks nor the charm to be one. I tried to be open-minded but he's just too skeazy-looking for my comfort level. I can't shake the feeling that he's the type who makes slurping sounds at every female who passes by.
Sneha is the sole reason I sat through this drivel. I would've enjoyed her glam act a lot more had she been paired with a better-looking and/or more charismatic hero. I didn't detect any chemistry between her and Lawrence. I got the impression that she was just doing her job. I hope she was paid well.
The three songs with Namitha could've--should've--been left on the cutting room floor. I'm sure the frontbenchers loved them, but I found them forced and unnecessary.
I kept waiting for Pandi's(Lawrence) mother to get killed so that he could avenge her death and the movie would hopefully stop dragging so damn much. I thought she would get bumped off just before the interval, but the film was almost over before she finally made her exit. By that time, my brain and eyeballs were screaming for mercy, so I stopped the movie. I regret not doing that sooner.
Normally, I can handle and even appreciate stupid movies, but Pandi is one of the exceptions. I wouldn't watch this again even if someone gave me a free copy of the DVD.
The opening shots of Lawrence performing menial jobs around Dubai piqued my interest, but it quickly waned after the movie went into flashback mode to Lawrence's earlier days as a carefree youth in his village.
I will give Lawrence a kudo for trying his damndest to act like a hero in spite of having neither the looks nor the charm to be one. I tried to be open-minded but he's just too skeazy-looking for my comfort level. I can't shake the feeling that he's the type who makes slurping sounds at every female who passes by.
Sneha is the sole reason I sat through this drivel. I would've enjoyed her glam act a lot more had she been paired with a better-looking and/or more charismatic hero. I didn't detect any chemistry between her and Lawrence. I got the impression that she was just doing her job. I hope she was paid well.
The three songs with Namitha could've--should've--been left on the cutting room floor. I'm sure the frontbenchers loved them, but I found them forced and unnecessary.
I kept waiting for Pandi's(Lawrence) mother to get killed so that he could avenge her death and the movie would hopefully stop dragging so damn much. I thought she would get bumped off just before the interval, but the film was almost over before she finally made her exit. By that time, my brain and eyeballs were screaming for mercy, so I stopped the movie. I regret not doing that sooner.
Normally, I can handle and even appreciate stupid movies, but Pandi is one of the exceptions. I wouldn't watch this again even if someone gave me a free copy of the DVD.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Sivamani 98480 22338(2003)
I was going to give Majaa another chance, but chose to watch this instead after I discovered that both Asin and Rakshita were in it.
The premise of this flick appears to have been lifted from the 1999 Hollywood movie Message in a Bottle. I had a feeling of déjà vu during the scene where Rakshita is jogging on the beach and finds a bottle containing a letter written by Nagarjuna, whom she later tracks down and falls in love with.
Nagarjuna didn't have his jolie-laide in this movie either, but he did look good in a police uniform.
Does Prakash Raj ever take a break? For shits and giggles I peeped his filmography, and since the early 90s, he's acted in at least 100 movies, including this one, and has several more in the pipeline.
Rakshita is so sensuous-looking. I've had a crush on her since Dum. Minus her glamour, this movie would've been considerably less watchable.
Asin looked young and innocent. I found her particularly alluring in the scenes where she sported minimal makeup and tousled hair.
Perhaps it's just wishful thinking on my part, but I felt there was more chemistry between Asin and Rakshita than either of them had with Nagarjuna. They also made a hotter-looking couple.
The "Yenaatiki" song looks like it was filmed at the same location as Rakhee's "Zara Zara".
I might get this movie. It's not great, but I feel that Rakshita and Asin have enough screen time to justify purchasing it.
The premise of this flick appears to have been lifted from the 1999 Hollywood movie Message in a Bottle. I had a feeling of déjà vu during the scene where Rakshita is jogging on the beach and finds a bottle containing a letter written by Nagarjuna, whom she later tracks down and falls in love with.
Nagarjuna didn't have his jolie-laide in this movie either, but he did look good in a police uniform.
Does Prakash Raj ever take a break? For shits and giggles I peeped his filmography, and since the early 90s, he's acted in at least 100 movies, including this one, and has several more in the pipeline.
Rakshita is so sensuous-looking. I've had a crush on her since Dum. Minus her glamour, this movie would've been considerably less watchable.
Asin looked young and innocent. I found her particularly alluring in the scenes where she sported minimal makeup and tousled hair.
Perhaps it's just wishful thinking on my part, but I felt there was more chemistry between Asin and Rakshita than either of them had with Nagarjuna. They also made a hotter-looking couple.
The "Yenaatiki" song looks like it was filmed at the same location as Rakhee's "Zara Zara".
I might get this movie. It's not great, but I feel that Rakshita and Asin have enough screen time to justify purchasing it.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Aaru(2005)
I have the dubbed Telugu version that I watched about two years ago. Aside from the picturisation of the "Thottutae Thottutae" song, I remember very little.
For whatever reason(s), I've been thinking about this movie for the past couple of days. Based on my faulty memory, I have a feeling that it's kind of similar to Bheema. I intend to re-watch it tonight--if I can find it, that is. I can't remember if it's still on my bookshelf or if I put it in my closet.
ETA: It was in my closet. I watched about a half-hour before replacing it with Athidhi. The poor picture quality and obvious dubbing made me seriously considering spending $20+ on the Tamil version. Trisha looked like a dream in that white tennis dress. Surya looks best when he's playing a rowdy. Vadivelu's spoof of the "Kumari" song from Anniyan was funny. I will have it give it another look once I decide whether or not I really want to buy the Ayngaran DVD.
For whatever reason(s), I've been thinking about this movie for the past couple of days. Based on my faulty memory, I have a feeling that it's kind of similar to Bheema. I intend to re-watch it tonight--if I can find it, that is. I can't remember if it's still on my bookshelf or if I put it in my closet.
ETA: It was in my closet. I watched about a half-hour before replacing it with Athidhi. The poor picture quality and obvious dubbing made me seriously considering spending $20+ on the Tamil version. Trisha looked like a dream in that white tennis dress. Surya looks best when he's playing a rowdy. Vadivelu's spoof of the "Kumari" song from Anniyan was funny. I will have it give it another look once I decide whether or not I really want to buy the Ayngaran DVD.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Mass(2004)
AKA "Where's Jyothika?"
For the longest time, I wondered if I were watching the right movie. I even double-checked Wikipedia to make sure that her name was listed in the credits. I wasn't really paying attention, so I thought that maybe she was onscreen while I was preoccupied in another browser window. Long story, short version: I slid the marker on the time bar to 1:22:25 and lo and behold, there she was, looking too cute in white and dancing with the maid.
I could be wrong, but it sounded as if Jyothika's lines were mouthed by the same person who dubs for Trisha in her Telugu movies.
While I'm on the subject, was Ileana's dubbing artist for Rakhee used for Charmi in this flick? Hmmm...maybe not, but that individual's voice sounds familiar.
Speaking of Charmi, she looked sexy in the "Mass Lallalaire" song. I especially loved the white top, skirt, and boots she wore near the end.
I preferred the Nag-Jo pairing to the Nag-Charmi one. With Jo, Nag approached the jolie-laide he had going on in Super, but with Charmi, he looked aged and horribly mismatched.
I think I'll wait for this to show up in the $4.99 and under bin. I'm not really crazy about this movie, especially since Charmi and Jyothika don't get that much screen time, but I wouldn't mind spending say, $3.99 on it if I were in one of my "Oh, I feel like wasting money on a cheap DVD!" moods.
For the longest time, I wondered if I were watching the right movie. I even double-checked Wikipedia to make sure that her name was listed in the credits. I wasn't really paying attention, so I thought that maybe she was onscreen while I was preoccupied in another browser window. Long story, short version: I slid the marker on the time bar to 1:22:25 and lo and behold, there she was, looking too cute in white and dancing with the maid.
I could be wrong, but it sounded as if Jyothika's lines were mouthed by the same person who dubs for Trisha in her Telugu movies.
While I'm on the subject, was Ileana's dubbing artist for Rakhee used for Charmi in this flick? Hmmm...maybe not, but that individual's voice sounds familiar.
Speaking of Charmi, she looked sexy in the "Mass Lallalaire" song. I especially loved the white top, skirt, and boots she wore near the end.
I preferred the Nag-Jo pairing to the Nag-Charmi one. With Jo, Nag approached the jolie-laide he had going on in Super, but with Charmi, he looked aged and horribly mismatched.
I think I'll wait for this to show up in the $4.99 and under bin. I'm not really crazy about this movie, especially since Charmi and Jyothika don't get that much screen time, but I wouldn't mind spending say, $3.99 on it if I were in one of my "Oh, I feel like wasting money on a cheap DVD!" moods.
Mantra(2007)
I thought about this movie last night as I was lying in bed. It's been so long since I watched it, my thoughts will be brief and based on my hazy memory:
Both songs should've been axed.
I didn't like how the hero "had" to be the one to unravel the mystery. It should've been a heroine-oriented flick.
I liked it, but would've enjoyed it a lot more if Charmi had been the main focus(see above comment). She was the reason I bought it, because generally speaking, suspense films don't really interest me.
Both songs should've been axed.
I didn't like how the hero "had" to be the one to unravel the mystery. It should've been a heroine-oriented flick.
I liked it, but would've enjoyed it a lot more if Charmi had been the main focus(see above comment). She was the reason I bought it, because generally speaking, suspense films don't really interest me.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Pokiri(2006)
The DVD is playing as I type this. I watched parts of the Tamil remake with Vijay and Asin a while back. From what I remember, it was alright, but I like the Telugu version better, mainly because I prefer the Mahesh-Ileana pairing to the Vijay-Asin one :)
ETA: I really like this movie. I can't believe I put off buying it for so long. The more I watch it, the less inclined I am to give the Tamil version another look-see. Vijay and Asin pale in comparison to Mahesh and Ileana. I like the former two, but not as a jodi, and I doubt Vijay looks as good in a uniform as Mahesh.
ETA 01/22/10: No one does the slo-mo run quite like Mahesh. Vijay couldn't even come close. Now, I have the Tamil version, and have watched it a couple of times, and it's not bad, it would be a lot better without Vadivelu, and the Asin-Vijay pairing isn't quite as awkward as I initially thought, but for whatever reason(s), I can take them better as a pair in Sivakasi.
ETA: I really like this movie. I can't believe I put off buying it for so long. The more I watch it, the less inclined I am to give the Tamil version another look-see. Vijay and Asin pale in comparison to Mahesh and Ileana. I like the former two, but not as a jodi, and I doubt Vijay looks as good in a uniform as Mahesh.
ETA 01/22/10: No one does the slo-mo run quite like Mahesh. Vijay couldn't even come close. Now, I have the Tamil version, and have watched it a couple of times, and it's not bad, it would be a lot better without Vadivelu, and the Asin-Vijay pairing isn't quite as awkward as I initially thought, but for whatever reason(s), I can take them better as a pair in Sivakasi.
Bhale Dongalu(2008)
Telugu remake of the Hindi movie Bunty Aur Babli. Aside from the "Kajara Re" video, I haven't seen the original, nor do I plan to.
I couldn't stand Tarun in Enakku 20 Unakku 18. Not even the presence of Trisha Krishnan and Shriya Saran could ease the pain of having to watch him. I remember thinking that a piece of cardboard had more charisma and screen presence than he did. But in Bhale Dongalu, I found him suprisingly bearable--well, when he shared the screen with Ileana, that is. On his own, he was still kinda annoying. He's just not leading man material, IMO. He's better suited to "best friend of the hero"-type roles.
Ileana was her usual lithe and lovely self. Generally speaking, I think she has a mesmerizing screen presence, and I love her occasionally over-the-top facial expressions and gestures. She looked especially good in the shots of her wearing a leather top and skirt in the "Romeo Juliet" song. (I wasn't feeling the boots, though. Heels, while less comfortable, would've been a better choice.)
I liked Charmi's item song, "Ee Malle Mogga". While I think she and Aishwarya looked equally spicy in their respective numbers, I give the nod to Charmi simply because I prefer her over Aish :-P
I wish the picture quality had been better. I felt like I was watching one of those cheap DVDs. (Probably because I was watching "one of those cheap DVDs", even though it cost $12. I should've waited for a bigger price reduction.)
Again, I haven't watched Bunty Aur Babli, so I don't know how Bhale Dongalu compares, but overall, I think it's a decent flick(mainly because of my crush on Ileana ;)).
I couldn't stand Tarun in Enakku 20 Unakku 18. Not even the presence of Trisha Krishnan and Shriya Saran could ease the pain of having to watch him. I remember thinking that a piece of cardboard had more charisma and screen presence than he did. But in Bhale Dongalu, I found him suprisingly bearable--well, when he shared the screen with Ileana, that is. On his own, he was still kinda annoying. He's just not leading man material, IMO. He's better suited to "best friend of the hero"-type roles.
Ileana was her usual lithe and lovely self. Generally speaking, I think she has a mesmerizing screen presence, and I love her occasionally over-the-top facial expressions and gestures. She looked especially good in the shots of her wearing a leather top and skirt in the "Romeo Juliet" song. (I wasn't feeling the boots, though. Heels, while less comfortable, would've been a better choice.)
I liked Charmi's item song, "Ee Malle Mogga". While I think she and Aishwarya looked equally spicy in their respective numbers, I give the nod to Charmi simply because I prefer her over Aish :-P
I wish the picture quality had been better. I felt like I was watching one of those cheap DVDs. (Probably because I was watching "one of those cheap DVDs", even though it cost $12. I should've waited for a bigger price reduction.)
Again, I haven't watched Bunty Aur Babli, so I don't know how Bhale Dongalu compares, but overall, I think it's a decent flick(mainly because of my crush on Ileana ;)).
Athidhi(2007)
It's so typical of me. I start out not liking or feeling "meh" about a particular actor/actress and then one day, bam! I suddenly like him/her. Such is the case with Mahesh Babu. After last night's viewing of Athidhi, he is my new onscreen crush. He looked so good, I got all fangirl "Squee"-y whenever he stepped in front of the camera.
I had to go to bed, so I didn't watch all of it, but what I did see, I liked. It's not a great movie, but it's watchable. I can tell this is one of those flicks that I'll grow to love after several repeat viewings.
Amrita was cute, and she shared good chemistry with Mahesh. I liked her comedy scenes, particularly the one where she imagines bashing up Sunil for acting like he was some kind of super stud. (Aside: His constant use of the word "angle" got on my nerves.) I'd like to see her in more Telugu films, especially since none of her Hindi ones inspire me to break out my debit card.
One of my favorite scenes in the movie is when Amrita asks Athidhi if he ever loved anyone and he replies "Sridevi", and goes on to say that she's now married and has kids, and that he would've told her he loved her had he been born fifteen years earlier. Granted, those lines were in the script but still, I was tickled to hear that, being a huge Sridevi fan :)
Minus points: The beginning dragged a bit, and I wish there had been fewer fight scenes and a little more footage of the Athidhi-Amrita romance. Also, the songs were lackluster. This is the kind of movie that "needs" a great soundtrack in order to make up for its shortcomings.
But in spite of its flaws, I'm pleased with my purchase. I bought it on a whim, and it turned out to be a good choice.
ETA: The more I watch this, the more I like it. I still think the songs are lackluster, and that there are too many fight scenes, and I wish the director had had the guts to shoot an atypical ending(for a brief moment, I thought it was going to end on a sudden and somber note, but my hopes were quickly dashed), but despite that, I really enjoy this movie. Again, it's not great, but it's entertaining, and looking at Mahesh makes me all tingly inside :)
ETA2: Athidhi has become my "go-to" movie whenever I'm in a crappy mood(like now). "Khiladi Koona" and "Ornayano Pichi Pichigaa"(aka "Gona Gona Gona") have grown on me somewhat, but I like only certain parts of each song. I'm diggin' Mahesh's longer hair; I think it really suits him. I wish Amrita would forget Bollywood and join Telugu films. **chuckle**
P.S. I'm watching the "Valla Valla" song right now and I kinda like it, mainly because of the picturisation.
ETA3: I officially like "Khiladi Koona" and "Ornayano Pichi Pichigaa". Repeated viewings will do that, I guess.
I had to go to bed, so I didn't watch all of it, but what I did see, I liked. It's not a great movie, but it's watchable. I can tell this is one of those flicks that I'll grow to love after several repeat viewings.
Amrita was cute, and she shared good chemistry with Mahesh. I liked her comedy scenes, particularly the one where she imagines bashing up Sunil for acting like he was some kind of super stud. (Aside: His constant use of the word "angle" got on my nerves.) I'd like to see her in more Telugu films, especially since none of her Hindi ones inspire me to break out my debit card.
One of my favorite scenes in the movie is when Amrita asks Athidhi if he ever loved anyone and he replies "Sridevi", and goes on to say that she's now married and has kids, and that he would've told her he loved her had he been born fifteen years earlier. Granted, those lines were in the script but still, I was tickled to hear that, being a huge Sridevi fan :)
Minus points: The beginning dragged a bit, and I wish there had been fewer fight scenes and a little more footage of the Athidhi-Amrita romance. Also, the songs were lackluster. This is the kind of movie that "needs" a great soundtrack in order to make up for its shortcomings.
But in spite of its flaws, I'm pleased with my purchase. I bought it on a whim, and it turned out to be a good choice.
ETA: The more I watch this, the more I like it. I still think the songs are lackluster, and that there are too many fight scenes, and I wish the director had had the guts to shoot an atypical ending(for a brief moment, I thought it was going to end on a sudden and somber note, but my hopes were quickly dashed), but despite that, I really enjoy this movie. Again, it's not great, but it's entertaining, and looking at Mahesh makes me all tingly inside :)
ETA2: Athidhi has become my "go-to" movie whenever I'm in a crappy mood(like now). "Khiladi Koona" and "Ornayano Pichi Pichigaa"(aka "Gona Gona Gona") have grown on me somewhat, but I like only certain parts of each song. I'm diggin' Mahesh's longer hair; I think it really suits him. I wish Amrita would forget Bollywood and join Telugu films. **chuckle**
P.S. I'm watching the "Valla Valla" song right now and I kinda like it, mainly because of the picturisation.
ETA3: I officially like "Khiladi Koona" and "Ornayano Pichi Pichigaa". Repeated viewings will do that, I guess.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Manmathan(2004)
When I first watched this movie, I made the mistake of expecting a sexed-up**, modern day version of Sivappu Rojakkal, the apparent inspiration for this flick. To say that I wound up disappointed would be an understatement. In short, I HATED it. I felt there were too many songs, too many shots of Simbu looking at the camera, and that both the backstory and the motivation behind the killings were stupid. I also didn't care for the gratuitous flashbacks to Jyothika getting raped. I thought, "Okay. I GET IT. You gotta keep the front benchers happy but please, I've had enough."
I've since learned, however, that this is the type of movie you cannot take seriously. Once I lowered my expectations and accepted it for what it is--a poor man's copy of Sivappu Rojakkal***--I had a more enjoyable viewing experience. Now, I just roll my eyes at the parts I find dumb or annoying, and mentally flesh out the scenes that I feel have the most promise.
Oh, and I thought Simbu looked hot, especially when he was acting(?) crazy. He's not conventionally good-looking, but there's something about him that gets to me.
ETA 11/25/09: I've been rewatching this on and off for the past couple of weeks, and I'm both amused and disturbed at how...blatantly? it enforces the "The virgin never dies" rule of slasher flicks. The one time Mythili(Jyothika) had sex(and with Madhan, no less), it was in a dream, and it was against her will, so she's still "a nice girl", and not at all like those sullied, slutty girls who willingly sleep around with guys whose sexual behavior isn't governed by the same rigid codes of morality. While that's nothing new or profound, it's just something that was on my mind while I watched this. I could go off on a tangent about how some guys can't make up their minds about female sexuality--if you don't have sex with them, you're "uptight", if you do have sex with them, you're a "slut", there's no middle ground, you can't be both a "nice girl" and enjoy sex outside of marriage--but I won't ;) I'll refrain from using this post as an online therapy session :P
ETA 12/29/09: Now that I think about it, and I meant to post this a lot earlier, the bleeding nose thing was most likely swiped from Valentine. And let me say for the umpteenth time that I got so sick of him looking at the camera and wiping his nose. Plz don't b breakin' the 4th wall, thx. I hate it when actors acknowledge the audience.
ETA 02/08/10: I've developed a liking for the scene where Madhan kills Vaishu and Seenu. Before, I didn't really give it much thought, but lately, I've been rewatching that particular scene and finding it humorous in a dark, politically incorrect way. What really makes the scene for me is the way Madhan clucks his tongue a la Ajith in Vaali and says, "Vaishu waiting" before ramming Seenu's head into the wall(or was it on the stairs?). I also liked watching him slam that blunt object(a vase? a trophy?) on Vaishu's head. (Yes, I have a sadistic streak.) It makes me chuckle because, if I were to discover that my best friend and boyfriend were screwing around behind my back, I can imagine myself behaving--or rather, wanting to behave in a similiar manner. In reality, I wouldn't react one-tenth as violently, but I'd sure feel like it, especially if I didn't fully rage, as I'm wont to do. (I'm one of those "slow to anger" types. I don't truly get pissed-off sometime after the fact.)
ETA 03/24/10: I'm already going to hell, so I feel no shame in admitting that I liked the rape scene. I didn't like the frequent flashbacks to it, because I'm a "once is enough" kinda gal, but the first time? Yeah. I'm convinced that scene is one of the reasons this movie was so successful.
Jyothika was so pretty. One reviewer remarked that she looked more like Simbu's mother. Eh, maybe, but I consider her type of "matronliness" to be of the "warm, comforting" variety. Like, she would just give you a big ol' hug and nice, hot meal if you were having a bad day. Or maybe I'm just giving this way too much thought.
Anyway, Jo seems like the kind of person I'd want to hang out with in real life. She has such a likeable screen presence. Yeah, she can be OTT, but I find her histrionics endearing enough to kind of forget their headache inducing-ness.
**It was certainly "sexed-up", but not in the way I hoped--i.e. more implied, less in-yer-face. For the most part, I don't mind getting hit over the head with the sexuality hammer, but there are times when I find it sexier to have to use my imagination.
***While SR is one of my favorite films, I don't think it's necessarily great, but what makes it so appealing to me is Kamal's eerie performance and the chemistry between him and Sridevi.
I've since learned, however, that this is the type of movie you cannot take seriously. Once I lowered my expectations and accepted it for what it is--a poor man's copy of Sivappu Rojakkal***--I had a more enjoyable viewing experience. Now, I just roll my eyes at the parts I find dumb or annoying, and mentally flesh out the scenes that I feel have the most promise.
Oh, and I thought Simbu looked hot, especially when he was acting(?) crazy. He's not conventionally good-looking, but there's something about him that gets to me.
ETA 11/25/09: I've been rewatching this on and off for the past couple of weeks, and I'm both amused and disturbed at how...blatantly? it enforces the "The virgin never dies" rule of slasher flicks. The one time Mythili(Jyothika) had sex(and with Madhan, no less), it was in a dream, and it was against her will, so she's still "a nice girl", and not at all like those sullied, slutty girls who willingly sleep around with guys whose sexual behavior isn't governed by the same rigid codes of morality. While that's nothing new or profound, it's just something that was on my mind while I watched this. I could go off on a tangent about how some guys can't make up their minds about female sexuality--if you don't have sex with them, you're "uptight", if you do have sex with them, you're a "slut", there's no middle ground, you can't be both a "nice girl" and enjoy sex outside of marriage--but I won't ;) I'll refrain from using this post as an online therapy session :P
ETA 12/29/09: Now that I think about it, and I meant to post this a lot earlier, the bleeding nose thing was most likely swiped from Valentine. And let me say for the umpteenth time that I got so sick of him looking at the camera and wiping his nose. Plz don't b breakin' the 4th wall, thx. I hate it when actors acknowledge the audience.
ETA 02/08/10: I've developed a liking for the scene where Madhan kills Vaishu and Seenu. Before, I didn't really give it much thought, but lately, I've been rewatching that particular scene and finding it humorous in a dark, politically incorrect way. What really makes the scene for me is the way Madhan clucks his tongue a la Ajith in Vaali and says, "Vaishu waiting" before ramming Seenu's head into the wall(or was it on the stairs?). I also liked watching him slam that blunt object(a vase? a trophy?) on Vaishu's head. (Yes, I have a sadistic streak.) It makes me chuckle because, if I were to discover that my best friend and boyfriend were screwing around behind my back, I can imagine myself behaving--or rather, wanting to behave in a similiar manner. In reality, I wouldn't react one-tenth as violently, but I'd sure feel like it, especially if I didn't fully rage, as I'm wont to do. (I'm one of those "slow to anger" types. I don't truly get pissed-off sometime after the fact.)
ETA 03/24/10: I'm already going to hell, so I feel no shame in admitting that I liked the rape scene. I didn't like the frequent flashbacks to it, because I'm a "once is enough" kinda gal, but the first time? Yeah. I'm convinced that scene is one of the reasons this movie was so successful.
Jyothika was so pretty. One reviewer remarked that she looked more like Simbu's mother. Eh, maybe, but I consider her type of "matronliness" to be of the "warm, comforting" variety. Like, she would just give you a big ol' hug and nice, hot meal if you were having a bad day. Or maybe I'm just giving this way too much thought.
Anyway, Jo seems like the kind of person I'd want to hang out with in real life. She has such a likeable screen presence. Yeah, she can be OTT, but I find her histrionics endearing enough to kind of forget their headache inducing-ness.
**It was certainly "sexed-up", but not in the way I hoped--i.e. more implied, less in-yer-face. For the most part, I don't mind getting hit over the head with the sexuality hammer, but there are times when I find it sexier to have to use my imagination.
***While SR is one of my favorite films, I don't think it's necessarily great, but what makes it so appealing to me is Kamal's eerie performance and the chemistry between him and Sridevi.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Sivakasi(2005)
I like Asin. I like Vijay. But I don't like this movie. I watched only a half-hour before deciding that I'd had enough. It went downhill for me after Vijay's intro-slash-obligatory-fight-scene. And the part where Vijay lectures Asin about her clothing choices only gave me the incentive I needed to click the "stop" button. (Ironically, the same scene in Vijayadasami didn't bother me. Go figure.) I'm glad I didn't buy this without first checking it out. I would've been really disappointed.
Kanthaswamy(2009)
The trailer is too long(eight minutes), but it's wonderfully weird enough to pique my interest. 5:05 to 5:44 is my favorite part. Vikram and Shriya make a hot couple. I can't wait for this movie to be released.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Sainikudu(2006)
Even though it started off slow and dragged in places, I knew that I would order this movie after I finished watching it. The chemistry between Mahesh Babu and Trisha Krishnan alone was enough to convince me to buy it. I liked this film better than Athadu, which I started watching first, but it failed to hold my interest, despite the cute scenes with Trisha and Mahesh. However, I figured I would be partial to Sainikudu after I read on Wikipedia that it didn't do as well as Athadu. I tend to like the so-called flops or average grossers of a particular actor or actress better than their hits.
As with Vijay, I had formed a somewhat negative opinion about Mahesh based on what I saw in still photographs. But after seeing him on film, I had a sudden change of heart. I now think he's rather cute and has a compelling screen presence. I'm glad I took a chance on him. I forsee a Pokiri DVD in my near future.
Trisha was lovely, as always. I think I am officially in love with her.
The running time could've trimmed by a half-hour.
ETA: WAAHHHHH!!!! My disc is defective! It froze during the "Aadapilla Aggipulla" song and I had to skip ahead two chapters before it would play normally again :( I have to order another one, I guess. **sigh**
BTW, I loved Trisha and Mahesh's scuffle in the woods prior to the start of "Aadapilla Aggipulla". I thought it was both hot and funny.
ETA 02/19/10: I finally bought a replacement DVD. It plays all the way through, yay! However, it's not as entertaining as I initially thought. I can see why it flopped. I enjoy watching Mahesh, still love the scene where Trisha imagines Mahesh trying to rape her in the woods. I liked seeing him, however briefly, as a lecherous rogue and wished I were in her place, only I wouldn't have resisted, 'cause I'm naughty like that.
P.S. Trisha was cute, but she kinda annoys me these days. I'm so fickle with my affections.
P.P.S. I don't know why it took so long for me to warm up to Mahesh. Maybe because I'm more into the heroines than the heroes. (It's that whole "identification" thing, I think.) Also, the running time could've been trimmed by about forty-five mintues. And while I found it rather boring this time around, I still kinda like it better than Athadu.
As with Vijay, I had formed a somewhat negative opinion about Mahesh based on what I saw in still photographs. But after seeing him on film, I had a sudden change of heart. I now think he's rather cute and has a compelling screen presence. I'm glad I took a chance on him. I forsee a Pokiri DVD in my near future.
Trisha was lovely, as always. I think I am officially in love with her.
The running time could've trimmed by a half-hour.
ETA: WAAHHHHH!!!! My disc is defective! It froze during the "Aadapilla Aggipulla" song and I had to skip ahead two chapters before it would play normally again :( I have to order another one, I guess. **sigh**
BTW, I loved Trisha and Mahesh's scuffle in the woods prior to the start of "Aadapilla Aggipulla". I thought it was both hot and funny.
ETA 02/19/10: I finally bought a replacement DVD. It plays all the way through, yay! However, it's not as entertaining as I initially thought. I can see why it flopped. I enjoy watching Mahesh, still love the scene where Trisha imagines Mahesh trying to rape her in the woods. I liked seeing him, however briefly, as a lecherous rogue and wished I were in her place, only I wouldn't have resisted, 'cause I'm naughty like that.
P.S. Trisha was cute, but she kinda annoys me these days. I'm so fickle with my affections.
P.P.S. I don't know why it took so long for me to warm up to Mahesh. Maybe because I'm more into the heroines than the heroes. (It's that whole "identification" thing, I think.) Also, the running time could've been trimmed by about forty-five mintues. And while I found it rather boring this time around, I still kinda like it better than Athadu.
Aishwarya(2006)
Deepika Padukone's debut. I don't know why it took so long before it was finally released on VCD.
So far, I've watched only the first disc, and really, it wasn't so much "watching" as it was "waiting for Deepika to come onscreen".
Deeps was cute and charming. I agree with the person who told me that on film, she's very regal-looking. Her big eyes made her appear a tad alienesque, IMO, but that's not necessarily a bad thing :) If I liked any of her co-stars, I would check out Om Shanti Om and/or Bachna Ae Haseeno just to admire her beauty.
Even though she's a Kannadithi, I think a dubbing artist was used. But that's not unusual, because very few actresses dub in their own voices, even if the language they're acting in is their mother tongue.
So far, I've watched only the first disc, and really, it wasn't so much "watching" as it was "waiting for Deepika to come onscreen".
Deeps was cute and charming. I agree with the person who told me that on film, she's very regal-looking. Her big eyes made her appear a tad alienesque, IMO, but that's not necessarily a bad thing :) If I liked any of her co-stars, I would check out Om Shanti Om and/or Bachna Ae Haseeno just to admire her beauty.
Even though she's a Kannadithi, I think a dubbing artist was used. But that's not unusual, because very few actresses dub in their own voices, even if the language they're acting in is their mother tongue.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Chess(2006)
I bought this along with Billa. It was only $7.99 and the plot sounded interesting so I thought, "What the hell. I'll get it."
It was utterly predictable and lacking in edge-of-your-seat suspense, thanks to the "tell, don't show" style of narration, but I managed to enjoy it, anyway, mainly because I found Dileep strangely appealing. There was just something about him that made me go "Hmmmm...." Which is weird because, about a month ago, when I watched parts of Vinodayathra, I thought he looked dorky and too old for the character he was playing. But now, I want to try to rewatch it to see if I have a change of heart.
Bhavana, the heroine, was cute, and I liked her in the few scenes she was in. I will have to check out more of her movies.
The "Chandham" song is really beautiful, and the way it's picturised brings to mind certain scenes from Salangai Oli.
I just remembered that a while back, I watched another one of Dileep's movies, Kochi Rajavu. I saw only the first hour or so, but IIRC, it was a not-bad viewing experience. I think I'll give it another look-see and if I like it enough, I might consider buying it.
It was utterly predictable and lacking in edge-of-your-seat suspense, thanks to the "tell, don't show" style of narration, but I managed to enjoy it, anyway, mainly because I found Dileep strangely appealing. There was just something about him that made me go "Hmmmm...." Which is weird because, about a month ago, when I watched parts of Vinodayathra, I thought he looked dorky and too old for the character he was playing. But now, I want to try to rewatch it to see if I have a change of heart.
Bhavana, the heroine, was cute, and I liked her in the few scenes she was in. I will have to check out more of her movies.
The "Chandham" song is really beautiful, and the way it's picturised brings to mind certain scenes from Salangai Oli.
I just remembered that a while back, I watched another one of Dileep's movies, Kochi Rajavu. I saw only the first hour or so, but IIRC, it was a not-bad viewing experience. I think I'll give it another look-see and if I like it enough, I might consider buying it.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Vayanadan Thampan(1978)
Malayalam movie starring Kamal Hassan that was dubbed into Hindi and re-released as Pyasa Shaitan in the 80s in an attempt to, I assume, capitalize on Kamal's post-Ek Duje Ke Liye popularity. I saw a trailer for Pyasa Shaitan sometime last year and noticed that, ahem, "extra"(read: naughty) scenes had been added to spice up the flick. They looked so out-of-place, and it was obvious that they were filmed during a different decade.
I started watching this a few minutes ago, but(aside: Wow! Kamal looks great in that shot! I wish I could cap it)I think I'm going to save it for later viewing because my head hurts(damn rainy weather!), and it's difficult to concentrate.
I started watching this a few minutes ago, but(aside: Wow! Kamal looks great in that shot! I wish I could cap it)I think I'm going to save it for later viewing because my head hurts(damn rainy weather!), and it's difficult to concentrate.
Billa(2007)
My initial thoughts, based on Wednesday's viewing. I might add to this once I get the DVD and watch it a few more times.
With all of the hype surrounding Nayantara wearing a bikini in this movie, I was expecting something along the lines of Madhavi's bikini scene in Tik...Tik...Tik. But when I saw the bikini top-sarong combo I thought, "Is that it?" I was doubly disappointed when the camera didn't show the lower part of her body when she dropped the sarong and got into the pool. I'm guessing it was for modesty purposes. Fine. That's what I get for letting my imagination run wild.
While I'm on the subject of Nayan, I'll state that I thought she looked best in the white top, white mini-skirt, and leather jacket she wore towards the end of the movie.
Namitha didn't have anything to do except look pretty. Dancing is definitely not her forte. Her movements during the "Naan Meedum Naanaga" song looked awkward and out-of-place. Mumaith Khan would've been a better choice, IMO, because she moves well and would've added the needed "oomph!" to the number.
At first glance, I thought it was Brinda Parekh in the "Sei Ethavathu Sei"song, but closer inspection revealed that the girl--who goes by the name Rose Dawn--was slimmer in the midsection and wore far less pancake makeup. And then I realized that I saw her in an earlier scene.
Ajith was the perfect casting choice. I can't imagine anyone else in the role of Billa.
Santhanam has become the new go-to comedian, it seems. Whether or not I'll grow to dread his presence remains to be seen.
I found the ending anticlimatic. I wish there had been more of a bang, whether literally or figuratively.
All in all, I liked it. Billa's intro scene is my favorite so far. I found it both clever and comical, mainly because I would've been just as easily distracted.
With all of the hype surrounding Nayantara wearing a bikini in this movie, I was expecting something along the lines of Madhavi's bikini scene in Tik...Tik...Tik. But when I saw the bikini top-sarong combo I thought, "Is that it?" I was doubly disappointed when the camera didn't show the lower part of her body when she dropped the sarong and got into the pool. I'm guessing it was for modesty purposes. Fine. That's what I get for letting my imagination run wild.
While I'm on the subject of Nayan, I'll state that I thought she looked best in the white top, white mini-skirt, and leather jacket she wore towards the end of the movie.
Namitha didn't have anything to do except look pretty. Dancing is definitely not her forte. Her movements during the "Naan Meedum Naanaga" song looked awkward and out-of-place. Mumaith Khan would've been a better choice, IMO, because she moves well and would've added the needed "oomph!" to the number.
At first glance, I thought it was Brinda Parekh in the "Sei Ethavathu Sei"song, but closer inspection revealed that the girl--who goes by the name Rose Dawn--was slimmer in the midsection and wore far less pancake makeup. And then I realized that I saw her in an earlier scene.
Ajith was the perfect casting choice. I can't imagine anyone else in the role of Billa.
Santhanam has become the new go-to comedian, it seems. Whether or not I'll grow to dread his presence remains to be seen.
I found the ending anticlimatic. I wish there had been more of a bang, whether literally or figuratively.
All in all, I liked it. Billa's intro scene is my favorite so far. I found it both clever and comical, mainly because I would've been just as easily distracted.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Mourya(2004)
Dubbed Telugu version of Sullan, a Tamil movie starring Dhanush and Sindhu Tolani. I'm not a fan of dubs, but it was only $2.99, and I didn't want to spend $20 on the Tamil version without having any idea whether or not I'd like it.
I watched it last night and I do like it--or rather, I like Sindhu's glamourous appearance, particularly in the songs, and for that reason alone, I want to buy the Tamil DVD. (I also want the better picture quality, because the Telugu print has a greenish tint that I find distracting.) Her presence made the movie watchable enough for repeat viewings. I like Dhanush, but had some random actress been cast as his heroine, I probably would've added this title to my "never to be watched again" pile.
I found Sindhu so appealing, in fact, that I think I may consider getting Athanokkade.
I watched it last night and I do like it--or rather, I like Sindhu's glamourous appearance, particularly in the songs, and for that reason alone, I want to buy the Tamil DVD. (I also want the better picture quality, because the Telugu print has a greenish tint that I find distracting.) Her presence made the movie watchable enough for repeat viewings. I like Dhanush, but had some random actress been cast as his heroine, I probably would've added this title to my "never to be watched again" pile.
I found Sindhu so appealing, in fact, that I think I may consider getting Athanokkade.
Shock(2006)
I don't want to get too excited, especially since I viewed only the first few minutes--thanks to the effed-up audio--but I think Jyothika may have been able to do what Ileana and Trisha couldn't, and that's make Ravi Teja bearable. Again, I didn't watch the entire movie, but during the time he was onscreen, his presence didn't trigger an allergy headache or my "Ugh!" reflex the way it did when I tried to watch Khatarnak and Krishna, respectively. However, I won't be able to reach a final verdict until I watch the entire film.
ETA: Which may be never, because I just peeped the "Madhuram Madhuram" song on YouTube and immediately felt that familar tingling in the back of my neck. Nope, not even Jo can sell me on Ravi Teja. He's just one of those actors who will never appeal to me. I don't hate him, I just don't want to watch any of his movies.
ETA: Which may be never, because I just peeped the "Madhuram Madhuram" song on YouTube and immediately felt that familar tingling in the back of my neck. Nope, not even Jo can sell me on Ravi Teja. He's just one of those actors who will never appeal to me. I don't hate him, I just don't want to watch any of his movies.
Bheema(2008)
So far, I've watched only the first half-hour or so, but for purely shallow reasons, I've already decided that I want to buy the DVD once it's available again from bhavanidvd. Trisha and Vikram look so damn good, especially in the songs. And, according to its Wiki entry, there's no forced happy ending which, for me, is another plus.
Aside: I'm tired of seeing Prakash Raj in every other movie I own or watch online.
ETA: I got it today, and had it playing in the background until about a minute ago. I wasn't really paying attention to it(multi-tasking), but I like it. I know I'll like it even more when I give it my undivided attention, probably later tonight.
Aside: I'm tired of seeing Prakash Raj in every other movie I own or watch online.
ETA: I got it today, and had it playing in the background until about a minute ago. I wasn't really paying attention to it(multi-tasking), but I like it. I know I'll like it even more when I give it my undivided attention, probably later tonight.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Super(2005)
I was unable to watch the first part because the audio was out-of-sync. I tried acting like it was a silent film by muting the sound, but that didn't help. So I clicked on the second part and thankfully, the audio was fine. I'm a half-hour in as I type this and I've already decided that I like the movie enough to buy it.
I find Nagarjuna to be the male equivalent of jolie-laide in this flick. I don't know if the picture quality is that bad or if special camera filters were used, but unlike Boss, his mug didn't deter me from ordering the DVD.
Speaking of special camera filters, Anushka looks REALLY beautiful in this film, maybe even more so than in Rendu. Normally I think she's very bland-looking. But, aside from Super and Rendu, I've viewed only stills of her, so maybe she's one of those people who's more telegenic than photogenic.
Ayesha looks plump and the lightened hair isn't doing her any favors, but I still think she's cute. She's the reason I wanted to check out Super in the first place. (Aside: I'm still on the fence about buying No Smoking.)
ETA: I got the movie yesterday and watched most of it before going to bed. It was good. Nice, fluffly, mindless entertainment. Nag was looking so good, I was tempted to reconsider my earlier stance and order Boss.
Sonu Sood looked--and acted--like a male model. He provided nice eye candy.
Did Ayesha get a boob job during filming? Because I swear in one scene, she looked totally flat, and in the other scenes, she, um, had quite a rack. Still not feeling that lighter hair color, but she was very, very cute and sexy. She and Nag shared good chemistry, and were believable as a couple.
I find Nagarjuna to be the male equivalent of jolie-laide in this flick. I don't know if the picture quality is that bad or if special camera filters were used, but unlike Boss, his mug didn't deter me from ordering the DVD.
Speaking of special camera filters, Anushka looks REALLY beautiful in this film, maybe even more so than in Rendu. Normally I think she's very bland-looking. But, aside from Super and Rendu, I've viewed only stills of her, so maybe she's one of those people who's more telegenic than photogenic.
Ayesha looks plump and the lightened hair isn't doing her any favors, but I still think she's cute. She's the reason I wanted to check out Super in the first place. (Aside: I'm still on the fence about buying No Smoking.)
ETA: I got the movie yesterday and watched most of it before going to bed. It was good. Nice, fluffly, mindless entertainment. Nag was looking so good, I was tempted to reconsider my earlier stance and order Boss.
Sonu Sood looked--and acted--like a male model. He provided nice eye candy.
Did Ayesha get a boob job during filming? Because I swear in one scene, she looked totally flat, and in the other scenes, she, um, had quite a rack. Still not feeling that lighter hair color, but she was very, very cute and sexy. She and Nag shared good chemistry, and were believable as a couple.
Ab Ke Baras(2002)
To buy or not to buy? That is the question.
The first forty minutes or so were pretty good, despite some minor bumps. But from what I've peeped of the second half, it looked and felt like a totally different movie. Because of that, I don't know if I would have the DVD in constant rotation in my player. Maybe I should get the CD instead(the songs are good, especially "Hoga Hoga" and "Mujhe Raab Se Pyaar").
Other thoughts:
Arya Babbar is cute. But for some reason, I picture him as more of a south hero. I was suprised to learn that he's Raj Babbar's son. I guess I should've known from the last name.
The scene where Amrita hides in the trunk of a car that gets stolen by Arya reminded me of a similar scene in the Alicia Silverstone film, Excess Baggage.
Maybe I will check out Athidi, Amrita's Telugu flick with Mahesh Babu.
ETA: I ordered the movie AND the soundtrack. I just couldn't resist the infectious charms of "Hoga Hoga", and I decided that I'd rather watch Ab Ke Baras than Amrita's other Hindi films. **sigh** I wish I had bought it during the $5 sale at Nehaflix, though. Oh, well. Live and learn.
The first forty minutes or so were pretty good, despite some minor bumps. But from what I've peeped of the second half, it looked and felt like a totally different movie. Because of that, I don't know if I would have the DVD in constant rotation in my player. Maybe I should get the CD instead(the songs are good, especially "Hoga Hoga" and "Mujhe Raab Se Pyaar").
Other thoughts:
Arya Babbar is cute. But for some reason, I picture him as more of a south hero. I was suprised to learn that he's Raj Babbar's son. I guess I should've known from the last name.
The scene where Amrita hides in the trunk of a car that gets stolen by Arya reminded me of a similar scene in the Alicia Silverstone film, Excess Baggage.
Maybe I will check out Athidi, Amrita's Telugu flick with Mahesh Babu.
ETA: I ordered the movie AND the soundtrack. I just couldn't resist the infectious charms of "Hoga Hoga", and I decided that I'd rather watch Ab Ke Baras than Amrita's other Hindi films. **sigh** I wish I had bought it during the $5 sale at Nehaflix, though. Oh, well. Live and learn.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Sunday(2008)
Hindi remake of Anukokunda Oka Roju.
I wanted to like this movie because I think Ayesha Takia is lovely, and did a decent enough job in Salaam-E-Ishq and No Smoking that I'm sure she would've been passable, at least, in Charmi's role. But the opening credits alone were enough to make me say "Hell no!" to the possibility of buying the DVD. The rest of the movie looked just as bad. Granted, I watched only bits of certain scenes, but my gut instinct tells me that the director tried too hard to make a slapstick comedy and failed miserably. I could be wrong, but I'm in no hurry to find out. I'll give this one a pass for now.
I wanted to like this movie because I think Ayesha Takia is lovely, and did a decent enough job in Salaam-E-Ishq and No Smoking that I'm sure she would've been passable, at least, in Charmi's role. But the opening credits alone were enough to make me say "Hell no!" to the possibility of buying the DVD. The rest of the movie looked just as bad. Granted, I watched only bits of certain scenes, but my gut instinct tells me that the director tried too hard to make a slapstick comedy and failed miserably. I could be wrong, but I'm in no hurry to find out. I'll give this one a pass for now.
Aadavari Matalaku Ardhalu Verule(2007)
Yaaradi Nee Mohini is the remake of this Telugu movie.
Normally, I prefer the original version of a remade film, but for purely shallow reasons, I'll declare Yaaradi Nee Mohini the winner, solely because there wasn't an obvious age gap between Dhanush and Nayantara. With Venky and Trisha, I just couldn't shake the feeling that A) he was too old for the part and B) he looked like her dad as opposed to a love interest. Generally speaking, I don't like it when 40+ heroes are paired with much younger heroines. I think it looks creepy.
That's not to say that Aadavari Matalaku Ardhalu Verule was a total waste, however. About fifty minutes in, I managed to put aside my ageism and focus on the movie, which I thought was quite good. But as with Yaaradi Nee Mohini, I could've done without the farting scenes and the "Oh Baby!" item number. Length-wise, it didn't feel as long as YNM, but that could be because it was broken up into three parts. (Aside: the audio was out-of-sync in the second part, which drove me batty. It's very distracting when the actors' lip movements don't match the spoken dialogue.)
I didn't watch the last half-hour(beddie-bye time), but I doubt it ended differently than Yaaradi Nee Mohini.
BTW, the scene that stood out the most to me was the one where Trisha gets drunk in a bar. She's allegedly a boozehound in real life, so I found it funny to watch her gulp down those glasses of what appeared to be regular orange juice as if they were actual alcoholic drinks.
Another BTW: Trisha and Meghna Naidu looked hot in the "Cheli Chamaku" song.
This movie has been remade again in Kannada as Anthu Inthu Preethi Banthu with Divya and Aditya Babu.
Normally, I prefer the original version of a remade film, but for purely shallow reasons, I'll declare Yaaradi Nee Mohini the winner, solely because there wasn't an obvious age gap between Dhanush and Nayantara. With Venky and Trisha, I just couldn't shake the feeling that A) he was too old for the part and B) he looked like her dad as opposed to a love interest. Generally speaking, I don't like it when 40+ heroes are paired with much younger heroines. I think it looks creepy.
That's not to say that Aadavari Matalaku Ardhalu Verule was a total waste, however. About fifty minutes in, I managed to put aside my ageism and focus on the movie, which I thought was quite good. But as with Yaaradi Nee Mohini, I could've done without the farting scenes and the "Oh Baby!" item number. Length-wise, it didn't feel as long as YNM, but that could be because it was broken up into three parts. (Aside: the audio was out-of-sync in the second part, which drove me batty. It's very distracting when the actors' lip movements don't match the spoken dialogue.)
I didn't watch the last half-hour(beddie-bye time), but I doubt it ended differently than Yaaradi Nee Mohini.
BTW, the scene that stood out the most to me was the one where Trisha gets drunk in a bar. She's allegedly a boozehound in real life, so I found it funny to watch her gulp down those glasses of what appeared to be regular orange juice as if they were actual alcoholic drinks.
Another BTW: Trisha and Meghna Naidu looked hot in the "Cheli Chamaku" song.
This movie has been remade again in Kannada as Anthu Inthu Preethi Banthu with Divya and Aditya Babu.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Yaaradi Nee Mohini(2008)
If it were trimmed by about forty-five minutes(it clocks in at just under three hours), it would be the perfect popcorn flick. But in spite of the lengthiness, I really like this movie, mainly because the second half brings back childhood memories of visiting relatives, the combined noise of adults and children, heavy traffic in and out of the upstairs and downstairs bathrooms, the house feeling more alive because so many people were in it, etc. **sigh** Anyway...
I find it eerie how Raghuvaran, whose character dies in the movie, died about a month after the film was released. The funeral scene brought to mind my paternal grandmother's funeral, and how my father wept. I got teary-eyed while watching it.
I wasn't crazy about the picturisation of the "Oh Baby" song. The director should've ditched the item girl and just had the song playing in the background.
The "Palakkaattu Pakkathilae" remix song was cute, but could've been left on the cutting room floor, IMO. As with most songs, it didn't really add anything except extra minutes to the movie.
Aside: I doubt anyone will read this blog, but just in case...
***SPOILER ALERT!***
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I have mixed feelings about the ending. On one hand, it wasn't totally happy since Cheenu's grandfather still felt anger towards Vasu(Dhanush), but on the other hand, I don't think Vasu and Keerthi(Nayantara) should've ended up together. I would've preferred a more realistic ending--i.e. Keerthi and Cheenu getting married, and Vasu returning to Chennai alone. However, that's just a minor quibble since, in spite of feeling obligatory, the ending did put a smile on my face, and made me feel all mushy-gushy inside('cause I'm a sap like that).
I find it eerie how Raghuvaran, whose character dies in the movie, died about a month after the film was released. The funeral scene brought to mind my paternal grandmother's funeral, and how my father wept. I got teary-eyed while watching it.
I wasn't crazy about the picturisation of the "Oh Baby" song. The director should've ditched the item girl and just had the song playing in the background.
The "Palakkaattu Pakkathilae" remix song was cute, but could've been left on the cutting room floor, IMO. As with most songs, it didn't really add anything except extra minutes to the movie.
Aside: I doubt anyone will read this blog, but just in case...
***SPOILER ALERT!***
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I have mixed feelings about the ending. On one hand, it wasn't totally happy since Cheenu's grandfather still felt anger towards Vasu(Dhanush), but on the other hand, I don't think Vasu and Keerthi(Nayantara) should've ended up together. I would've preferred a more realistic ending--i.e. Keerthi and Cheenu getting married, and Vasu returning to Chennai alone. However, that's just a minor quibble since, in spite of feeling obligatory, the ending did put a smile on my face, and made me feel all mushy-gushy inside('cause I'm a sap like that).
No Smoking(2007)
Wow. Where do I begin?
I saw it listed for $7 on Nehaflix, and I was tempted to order it sight unseen, but then I thought I should try to find it online and watch it to see if I liked it enough to spend a total of $11 on it.
I found it online. I liked the first 20 minutes or so. I lost interest after John's character went to the rehabilitation center.
No Smoking is like a David Lynch film, IMO. Which is good in some ways, and bad in others.
I came across one blog that described the movie as "an ambitious failure". I agree. But that's only because I haven't watched it in its entirety. I think this is the type of flick that I would need to watch in bits and pieces because to try to watch it all at once would be too much for me to digest.
But, I'd rather watch "an ambitious failure" like No Smoking than the likes of Partner and Heyy Baby. (And this is coming from someone who can usually stomach crap films.)
Scattered thoughts:
Gratuitous shots of John's naked torso = GOOD
John wearing shades = HOT
In the scene where John and Ayesha appear to be getting intimate, what was UP with that thick-ass robe she was wearing while bundled up in a comforter? Modesty is one thing, looking downright ridiculous(not to mention uncomfortably hot) is another. Maybe that was the point. I don't know.
Is Ranvir Shorey naturally cockeyed, or was he wearing an optical device to give that impression? As ugly as I found him, I thought he and Ayesha had sexual chemistry, and could easily imagine their characters having an affair.
I liked Ayesha as the wife, but not as the receptionist--well, I guess in a way I did, kind of. Like, I could see her and John acting out a boss-secretary scenario, if you catch my drift.
Oh, and John stopping the elevator and telling the old woman to take the stairs after she asked him to put out his cigarette? HILARIOUS. Seriously. I loved that scene.
I'll have to return to this(the movie, not this entry) later. I want to like it because it's so out there. Maybe I will buy the DVD and watch only certain scenes, skip over others, and then return to the parts I fast-forwarded through. I think I would enjoy it more that way.
ETA: I ordered it today. I think I'll try watching the last couple of chapters first, and then work my way to the middle before watching it from the beginning.
ETA2: I watched it from chapter 13 to the end, and then from the beginning to the end. The final verdict? I LOVE it! I found it gross, morbidly funny, and wonderfully off-the-wall. For me, it's the kind of movie that stays with you long after you've watched it. I'm glad I went ahead and bought this. I need to hunt down similar films.
I saw it listed for $7 on Nehaflix, and I was tempted to order it sight unseen, but then I thought I should try to find it online and watch it to see if I liked it enough to spend a total of $11 on it.
I found it online. I liked the first 20 minutes or so. I lost interest after John's character went to the rehabilitation center.
No Smoking is like a David Lynch film, IMO. Which is good in some ways, and bad in others.
I came across one blog that described the movie as "an ambitious failure". I agree. But that's only because I haven't watched it in its entirety. I think this is the type of flick that I would need to watch in bits and pieces because to try to watch it all at once would be too much for me to digest.
But, I'd rather watch "an ambitious failure" like No Smoking than the likes of Partner and Heyy Baby. (And this is coming from someone who can usually stomach crap films.)
Scattered thoughts:
Gratuitous shots of John's naked torso = GOOD
John wearing shades = HOT
In the scene where John and Ayesha appear to be getting intimate, what was UP with that thick-ass robe she was wearing while bundled up in a comforter? Modesty is one thing, looking downright ridiculous(not to mention uncomfortably hot) is another. Maybe that was the point. I don't know.
Is Ranvir Shorey naturally cockeyed, or was he wearing an optical device to give that impression? As ugly as I found him, I thought he and Ayesha had sexual chemistry, and could easily imagine their characters having an affair.
I liked Ayesha as the wife, but not as the receptionist--well, I guess in a way I did, kind of. Like, I could see her and John acting out a boss-secretary scenario, if you catch my drift.
Oh, and John stopping the elevator and telling the old woman to take the stairs after she asked him to put out his cigarette? HILARIOUS. Seriously. I loved that scene.
I'll have to return to this(the movie, not this entry) later. I want to like it because it's so out there. Maybe I will buy the DVD and watch only certain scenes, skip over others, and then return to the parts I fast-forwarded through. I think I would enjoy it more that way.
ETA: I ordered it today. I think I'll try watching the last couple of chapters first, and then work my way to the middle before watching it from the beginning.
ETA2: I watched it from chapter 13 to the end, and then from the beginning to the end. The final verdict? I LOVE it! I found it gross, morbidly funny, and wonderfully off-the-wall. For me, it's the kind of movie that stays with you long after you've watched it. I'm glad I went ahead and bought this. I need to hunt down similar films.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Alai(2003)
I first spotted this movie on indiaweekly.com while searching for Trisha Krishan titles. I never got around to ordering it because, at the time, I didn't know whether or not I'd like the hero. Fast forward a couple of years and I'm checking indiaweekly for this movie again, and this time, not just for Trisha Krishan, but for Simbu, who I took a liking to after watching Vallabha. It was out-of-stock. I thought, "Ya snooze, ya lose. Let me check anytamil." Less than a week later, it arrived in my mailbox.
I would describe it as "a cute movie, if you don't think too hard". It's utterly predictable, and the usual boy meets girl, they hate each other, pranks ensue, heroine has a change of heart, a song or two later, they're in love, tragedy strikes, and just when it looks like the lovers are about to be separated, everything works out in the end. (How's that for a run-on sentence?)
Quick thoughts:
Raghuvaran plays father roles really well. I also liked him as Dhanush's dad in Yaaradi Nee Mohini.
I recognized Simbu's little brother, Kuralarasan, from Panchathanthram.
Trisha was cute, as usual, but I thought her pancake makeup was too thick. I liked the streaked hair she was sporting, though.
I would've liked the movie A LOT better if Vivek's comedy track had been axed. While I thought the first bit where he pretended to be dying of cancer and scammed a woman into giving him money was chuckle-worthy, after that, I was like, "Okay, enough already!" Generally speaking, I'm not a fan of comedy tracks. I feel that they interrupt the flow of a film, and are usually more lame or vulgar than funny, IMO.
I enjoyed the movie, but I wouldn't recommend it unless you're a die-hard Simbu fan. I think it's the weakest of his films. As many viewings as it took for Manmathan to finally grow on me, I would recommend that, or Totti Jaya, or even Kuthu, instead of Alai.
I would describe it as "a cute movie, if you don't think too hard". It's utterly predictable, and the usual boy meets girl, they hate each other, pranks ensue, heroine has a change of heart, a song or two later, they're in love, tragedy strikes, and just when it looks like the lovers are about to be separated, everything works out in the end. (How's that for a run-on sentence?)
Quick thoughts:
Raghuvaran plays father roles really well. I also liked him as Dhanush's dad in Yaaradi Nee Mohini.
I recognized Simbu's little brother, Kuralarasan, from Panchathanthram.
Trisha was cute, as usual, but I thought her pancake makeup was too thick. I liked the streaked hair she was sporting, though.
I would've liked the movie A LOT better if Vivek's comedy track had been axed. While I thought the first bit where he pretended to be dying of cancer and scammed a woman into giving him money was chuckle-worthy, after that, I was like, "Okay, enough already!" Generally speaking, I'm not a fan of comedy tracks. I feel that they interrupt the flow of a film, and are usually more lame or vulgar than funny, IMO.
I enjoyed the movie, but I wouldn't recommend it unless you're a die-hard Simbu fan. I think it's the weakest of his films. As many viewings as it took for Manmathan to finally grow on me, I would recommend that, or Totti Jaya, or even Kuthu, instead of Alai.
Friday, October 10, 2008
Athanokkade(2005), Vijayadasami(2007)
I'm alternately watching them online as I type this. The former was remade in Tamil as Aathi/Aadi(Vijay/Trisha), and the latter is a remake of the Tamil movie, Sivakasi(Vijay/Asin).
I think the hero of both flicks, Kalyan Ram, looks better in Athanokkade. Shorter hair suits him.
Sindhu Tolani is the heroine in Athanokkade, and while she looks nice and does a fine job in the acting department, I prefer Trisha's role in the remake. I also think Trisha's intro was better picturised and had more of an impact than Sindhu's.
Vedhika, the heroine in Vijayadasami, is cute and looks good in both traditional and western dress. She also dances well. I think I've already mentioned in another post that I like her. If not, well, I like her, and hope to see her in more movies.
If I had to choose, I would say that Athanokkade is the better of the two, mainly because Kalyan's mannerisms and dialogue delivery are not as stylized and over-the-top as they are in Vijayadasami. In the latter film, his acting style reminded me of Simbu at his very worst. But from what I've viewed, Vijayadasami appears to be a decent popcorn flick. It will never be mistaken for great cinema, but for me, it's watchable enough that I would probably buy it if the urge hit me.
I think the hero of both flicks, Kalyan Ram, looks better in Athanokkade. Shorter hair suits him.
Sindhu Tolani is the heroine in Athanokkade, and while she looks nice and does a fine job in the acting department, I prefer Trisha's role in the remake. I also think Trisha's intro was better picturised and had more of an impact than Sindhu's.
Vedhika, the heroine in Vijayadasami, is cute and looks good in both traditional and western dress. She also dances well. I think I've already mentioned in another post that I like her. If not, well, I like her, and hope to see her in more movies.
If I had to choose, I would say that Athanokkade is the better of the two, mainly because Kalyan's mannerisms and dialogue delivery are not as stylized and over-the-top as they are in Vijayadasami. In the latter film, his acting style reminded me of Simbu at his very worst. But from what I've viewed, Vijayadasami appears to be a decent popcorn flick. It will never be mistaken for great cinema, but for me, it's watchable enough that I would probably buy it if the urge hit me.
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