TheReviewMonk
Madhureeta Mukherjee

Madhureeta Mukherjee

Times Of India·Glamsham

95Reviews
5.8Avg from 95 scored
2Publications

Most Divergent Takes

October

October

2018 · Times Of India · Apr 2018

In love and relationships, a lot remains unsaid and undefined. What can't find it's way into words, will find a way to flow out. Let it. The fragrant memory of Shiuli (the Bengali name for Night Jasmine) and Dan's unconditional story will linger long after. Go, take it all in.

8.0
TRM 6.7
Full review ↗
Hindi Medium

Hindi Medium

2017 · Times Of India · May 2017

This class isn't part of the usual Bollywood curriculum, and we suggest that you sign up for it. Admissions open to all.

8.0
TRM 6.3
Full review ↗
Roy

Roy

2015 · Times Of India · Feb 2015

'Roy' has its moments, but the story is like a blotch of painting on abstract art.

5.0
TRM 4.2
Full review ↗
Zid

Zid

2014 · Times Of India · Nov 2014

The performances are forgettable and flaws scream out loud. The climax tries to shock, but leaves you shaken and wondering - whose zid was this anyway? As the case comes to a painful close, a guy sitting next to me exasperatingly said, "It's time for a standing ovation." I rest my case.

3.0
TRM 3.5
Full review ↗
The Shaukeens

The Shaukeens

2014 · Times Of India · Nov 2014

The terrific threesome play their parts with ease and Lisa adds oomph and colour to the 'grey' streaks. Some humour is forced; songs are shovelled in, and the climax lasts way beyond the orgasm! A tad more comical chemistry between the trio would made this a far more entertaining fare.

6.0
TRM 4.9
Full review ↗
Happy New Year

Happy New Year

2014 · Times Of India · Oct 2014

It's not a film about an ingenious heist (far from 'Oceans Eleven') or dance, it's a film about everything genuinely Bollywood - where logic gets a 'fit', gloss covers up the glitches, cameos creep in without a warning; and the rest of the plot finds comfort in the hero's hot-bod (anything from 6 to 8 packs - take your pick!) and outstretched arms.

6.0
TRM 5.4
Full review ↗
Desi Kattey

Desi Kattey

2014 · Times Of India · Sep 2014

Anand Kumar misses almost every target at making even a fairly watchable film. Damn the cliches, the film shows no semblance of a coherent story or believable characters. It's plagued with weak dialogues and poor editing.

3.0
TRM 3.1
Full review ↗
Daawat-e-Ishq

Daawat-e-Ishq

2014 · Times Of India · Sep 2014

This one won't fill your hungry hearts, but one serving (not too bland, not too spicy) isn't too bad for your appetite.

6.0
TRM 5.0
Full review ↗
Mad About Dance

Mad About Dance

2014 · Times Of India · Aug 2014

'MAD' puts its best foot forward at the end, hold your breath for the last dance. Overall, it's a film for dance lovers. Even if it leaves the heart dancing for more.

5.0
TRM 4.8
Full review ↗
Singham Returns

Singham Returns

2014 · Times Of India · Aug 2014

Shetty's cracked the pulse of the masses as he brazenly plays to the galleries. While the story itself plays it safe (too basic and predictable), the action is risky and rousing. Also packing a social message and feeding action lovers with raw 'meat and bones'. It's riddled with cliches and the length needs a good edit. But overall, it provides entertainment for enthusiasts of 'Singham' brand of cinema.

6.0
TRM 5.3
Full review ↗
Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania

Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania

2014 · Times Of India · Jul 2014

HSKD has plenty of feel-good moments, but nothing that will leave you punch-drunk. For romantics who believe in their dils and their dulhanias.

6.0
TRM 5.9
Full review ↗
Lekar Hum Deewana Dil

Lekar Hum Deewana Dil

2014 · Times Of India · Jul 2014

The film has some feel-good moments and the minty breath of young love, though nothing much to chew on.

5.0
TRM 3.6
Full review ↗
Filmistaan

Filmistaan

2014 · Times Of India · Jun 2014

In a nation of star-worshippers, this film devoid of superstars brilliantly stands out. Aaj khush toh bahut hain hum! Ab bas, tareef pe tareef ...

8.0
TRM 7.0
Full review ↗
Holiday - A Soldier Is Never Off Duty

Holiday - A Soldier Is Never Off Duty

2014 · Times Of India · Jun 2014

Akshay's stunts are jaw-dropping; he's in top form and impressively leads the show without much support from his squadron of actors. Farhad (the lead villain) doesn't leave much impact; and Sonakshi slides in for the song and dance. This one applauds the jawans who live in the jaws of death, and is a 'wake up' call for all the 'sleepers' that abound. Bravo!

7.0
TRM 5.1
Full review ↗
Kuku Mathur Ki Jhand Ho Gayi

Kuku Mathur Ki Jhand Ho Gayi

2014 · Times Of India · May 2014

Funny situations and scenes with quirky characters provide clean humour but that can't substitute for the lack of a good, engaging story. Watch this one only if a 'little birdie' tells you to. We mean a 'Kuku', alright.

5.0
TRM 4.8
Full review ↗
The Xposé

The Xposé

2014 · May 2014

It's pacy but the plot unravels stylishly, not intelligently (some suspects don't have a clear motive for murder). Sonali is stunning and impressive, Zoya makes a pretty picture and Yo Yo is best when he's grooving. Himesh slips well into his character, with quirkiness and confidence. This is far from a mind-bending thriller, but a decent effort which has some good 'ol masala to keep you entertained.

5.0
TRM 4.0
Full review ↗
Hawaa Hawaai

Hawaa Hawaai

2014 · May 2014

HH's inspiring story is for children, for the child in all of us and for adults who need to wake up to dream again. Amol Gupte's story is soulful, heart-breaking and hopeful - moving you from tears to deep thought. He skillfully creates a portrait of the lives of deprived children - with profundity and playfulness.

7.0
TRM 6.5
Full review ↗
Purani Jeans

Purani Jeans

2014 · May 2014

Yes, the concept of dosti symbolized as purani jeans is as old as cowboys in the wild west. But this denim offering leaves you 'blue' and 'uncool'.

4.0
TRM 3.8
Full review ↗
Kya Dilli Kya Lahore

Kya Dilli Kya Lahore

2014 · May 2014

One of the finest things about 'KDKL' is Gulzar's poetic prologue. Without the usual trappings of filmi fanfare, this story has its heart in the right place - pure and undivided. Like pre-partition brotherhood.

6.0
TRM 5.5
Full review ↗
Revolver Rani

Revolver Rani

2014 · Apr 2014

'Revolver Rani' is loaded with a lot more than just gunpower. You'll enjoy biting this bullet.

7.0
TRM 5.6
Full review ↗
Dekh Tamasha Dekh

Dekh Tamasha Dekh

2014 · Apr 2014

...rolls out like a play or a social commentary with staged events (often over-stretched) that result in an abrupt narrative. The stark portrayal of bare-faced reality (devoid of background music) with a cast of commoners - gives it a docu-drama flavour. 'DTD' is 'grave' alright, but offers hilarity in decent doses.

6.0
TRM 6.1
Full review ↗
Bhoothnath Returns

Bhoothnath Returns

2014 · Apr 2014

Tiwari's sequel sets off with a lot of promise, entertainment, laughs and endearing camaraderie between a bhooth and a boy. The first-half has wittily written scenes - strung with satire and emotion, but the story slowly turns into a tedious vocational course on voting. The preaching distracts from some superb performances and inadvertently loses humour, but the story does have its heart in the right place. 'BN' makes a comeback at a perfect time - bang on with our Indian elections, and packs a powerful message, albeit with potholes in the plot.

5.0
TRM 5.8
Full review ↗
Jal

Jal

2014 · Apr 2014

'Jal' captures the bare beauty of the golden cracked earth and its tortuous tapestry in artfully mounted frames (cinematography: Sunita Radia). It's a picture-perfect album with stark sights and parched souls. The story is stirring, handling several complex issues in the same breath, and yes, that does leave us a bit thirsty. It also needs a better edit. There are over-dramatized scenes (Bakka dragged across the desert) to enhance visual impact, but the solid performances and soundtrack make up for it.

7.0
TRM 5.3
Full review ↗
Youngistaan

Youngistaan

2014 · Times Of India · Mar 2014

Afzal's 'Youngistaan' at the core is an interesting idea, far-fetched, but refreshing. The love-story develops tenderly, but the political backdrop and ensuing drama is not crafted with clarity. The story suffers from uninspiring dialogues, with a stretched climax. It's a well-intentioned drama which vibes with the current political scenario and upcoming elections.

6.0
TRM 4.9
Full review ↗
Ragini MMS 2

Ragini MMS 2

2014 · Times Of India · Mar 2014

For horror-buffs this might not be 'spookilicious' enough, but those looking for a 'sun-sunny' weekend, go lap it up!

6.0
TRM 4.5
Full review ↗
Lakshmi

Lakshmi

2014 · Times Of India · Mar 2014

Lakshmi's story makes your heart bleed. If you have the courage, watch it. We wish Kukunoor had focused more on her spirit and triumph - our experience would've been more fulfilling, less overbearing. Shefali is brilliant, debutant Monali expresses with her beautiful eyes. Kapoor and Kaushik are average and Nagesh doesn't push his performance too far.

5.0
TRM 5.9
Full review ↗
Shorts

Shorts

2013 · Times Of India · Mar 2014

In this ambiguous story, too much is left to interpretation. Too arty for the soul!

5.0
TRM 5.4
Full review ↗
Bewakoofiyaan

Bewakoofiyaan

2014 · Times Of India · Mar 2014

...has its khoobiyaan but mostly it has majbooriyaan where the story is concerned. It tells you not to overspend. Yet the script is not as 'penny wise', gettit?

5.0
TRM 4.7
Full review ↗
Total Siyapaa

Total Siyapaa

2014 · Times Of India · Mar 2014

Like a cold, cloudy morning in London, this one leaves you with more gloom than glee.

5.0
TRM 3.8
Full review ↗
Shaadi Ke Side Effects

Shaadi Ke Side Effects

2014 · Times Of India · Feb 2014

Single or married, this film will have more of a 'special effect' than 'side effect' on you. Vidya is brilliant and hits a high note in the emotional scenes. The film belongs to Farhan who stuns you with his straight-faced witticisms and plethora of expressions that amuse and move dramatically.

7.0
TRM 5.6
Full review ↗
One By Two

One By Two

2014 · Jan 2014

Debutante Devika's concept might look good on paper, but onscreen it dissipates like diarrhoea. Strung with a few laughable scenes, it scrambles around with too many plots crafted like episodic sitcoms. It intends to reflect the psyche of the 'wuzdat' generation but quickly crumbles like an out-of-love, casual sex relationship. Abhay is good in his part, but after his super performance in 'Raanjhanaa' he's not at his peak here.

4.0
TRM 3.7
Full review ↗
Jai Ho

Jai Ho

2014 · Times Of India · Jan 2014

Sparking an optimistic hope of a Utopian world. Sohail presents our 'Hero of the Masses' fabulously - with all Salmanisms perfectly in place. The premise pompously alerts us of cliches and trappings of a commercial masala fare. The screenplay is not as inspiring as the noble message, the story cuts into too many episodes and the underlying idea is repetitive.

7.0
TRM 5.2
Full review ↗
Miss Lovely

Miss Lovely

2014 · Times Of India · Jan 2014

The plot unfolds at a lethargic pace, with long-drawn scenes filled in with few dialogues. Some crucial scenes lack the emotional depth and connect you'd expect, inhibiting us from empathising with the protagonists. Nawazuddin shines brilliantly even in the smoky shadows of this sexploitative world, Niharika and Anil play their parts well. The film is stylishly sleazy, that's what works for it. Watch it for a retro-ride into the naked innards of a soft-porn world and its bared bosoms.

6.0
TRM 6.1
Full review ↗
Yaariyan

Yaariyan

2014 · Times Of India · Jan 2014

'Yaariyan' is nothing to gush about, but the teenies can watch this one for a lark...and some yo-yo beats!

6.0
TRM 3.4
Full review ↗
R... Rajkumar

R... Rajkumar

2013 · Times Of India · Dec 2013

While 'R...Rajkumar' entertains at some levels, it suffers from utter plainness and predictability. The raw action is impressive (Ravi Varma), the songs (Pritam) and the choreography are routine attractions. The second half seems like a sari too long and the comedy is often forced. It has some 'Must Haves' of a pot-boiler, but misses the real thing - a SOLID STORY!

6.0
TRM 3.3
Full review ↗
Gori Tere Pyaar Mein

Gori Tere Pyaar Mein

2013 · Times Of India · Nov 2013

This isn't the most rousing romance (second-half lacks 'rom'), but has its feel-good moments. Chew it up with some 'Chingam' and a cute date.

7.0
TRM 4.8
Full review ↗
Rajjo

Rajjo

2013 · Times Of India · Nov 2013

This one falls many notches below expectation. And not even a Rajjo-nautch can swing it out of the red-light zone.

5.0
TRM 3.2
Full review ↗
Satya 2

Satya 2

2013 · Times Of India · Nov 2013

Truth be told, iss film ko goli maaro, and for the sake of nostalgia, watch the original, for posterity.

4.0
TRM 3.5
Full review ↗
Krrish 3

Krrish 3

2013 · Times Of India · Oct 2013

For sheer vision, bravado and superlative execution, this one soars to new orbits. Latch on to this cape for an exhilarating ride.

9.0
TRM 5.6
Full review ↗
Mickey Virus

Mickey Virus

2013 · Oct 2013

Varma allows his characters to flourish in wit and humour. The plot is intelligent; there are laughs (sample: a tee printed - 'Jab Tak Hai Trojan'), some suspense and surprises too. Though direction is not error-free, it could've been more innovative and he often tips the balance between comedy and thriller. This virus won't crash your system. Watch it!

6.0
TRM 4.9
Full review ↗
Shahid

Shahid

2013 · Times Of India · Oct 2013

Raj Kumar is superb; he peels layers to strip to the core of his character. He magnifies the most intense scenes with sheer brilliance of an understated, realistic performance. It warrants applause. And an unadulterated encore. Catch it if real cinema is what you crave.

7.0
TRM 7.1
Full review ↗
Besharam

Besharam

2013 · Times Of India · Oct 2013

While this is far from the best films of the year, if you shamelessly love Ranbir, go for it. You might not like this if don't have an appetite for typical Bollywood formula films.

7.0
TRM 4.2
Full review ↗
Super Model

Super Model

2013 · Times Of India · Sep 2013

The film reminds you of a popular voyeuristic television show, albeit a downgraded version. With trashy production values, a futile story, cheesy dialogues and catastrophic performances this one trips off the ramp long before the show starts.

1.0
TRM 3.7
Full review ↗
Warning

Warning

2013 · Times Of India · Sep 2013

'Warning', heavily inspired from Hollywood film 'Open Water 2' with all its highs and lows is a new effort at a waterworld story, but fails to safely swim ashore even with a life-vest.

4.0
TRM 4.1
Full review ↗
Shuddh Desi Romance

Shuddh Desi Romance

2013 · Times Of India · Sep 2013

Maneesh Sharma's 'SDR' has a 'Band Bajaa Baraat' blend, but the essence lies in the conversational chemistry between the characters, some beautifully captured moments and slice-of-life scenes. He doesn't play safe, which is good, but the second half seems repetitive. The concept is engaging, but the plot is little shudd, little desi and quite confused.

6.0
TRM 6.1
Full review ↗
Rabba Main Kya Karoon

Rabba Main Kya Karoon

2013 · Times Of India · Aug 2013

Chopra's story sounds hilarious but it doesn't have the similar effect onscreen. The ensemble is good, but some are underused, the rest overact. The film provides few laughs, but mostly lacks comedy or romance. It bursts into random songs and the climax leaves you laughing - for the wrong reasons.

4.0
TRM 4.1
Full review ↗
B.A. Pass

B.A. Pass

2013 · Times Of India · Aug 2013

If you want a change from the colourful canvas of Bollywood, and you like it dark, very dark - test this one out.

6.0
TRM 6.2
Full review ↗
Issaq

Issaq

2013 · Times Of India · Jul 2013

"Love is a smoke made with the fume of sighs ..." - Shakespeare. This love saga leaves us sighing ...

3.0
TRM 3.7
Full review ↗
Nasha

Nasha

2013 · Times Of India · Jul 2013

If you're looking for something more between the sheets, this will leave you high and dry.

4.0
TRM 4.1
Full review ↗
Ship of Theseus

Ship of Theseus

2013 · Jul 2013

Gandhi's ruminative subject, catering to art-house cinema lovers (has won critical acclaim in international film festivals), is deeply layered and beautifully intricate. He doesn't compromise artistic depth for commerce, even for a moment, though the story-telling is not without flaws. The pace is exhaustingly slow and scenes monotonously long. This idea could be compressed into smaller 'lifeboats' and still sail safe. The monk's deeply profound story stands out.

6.0
TRM 7.6
Full review ↗
Bhaag Milkha Bhaag

Bhaag Milkha Bhaag

2013 · Jul 2013

Cinematography is ace (Binod Pradhan); the music (Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy) heightens the drama. Prasoon's writing is powerful, lyrics are pure poetry and emotions robustly sweep the scenes with few dialogues. While there's a lot to marvel at, a hint of the director's over-indulgence in the art, results in a long 'runtime' and prolonged scenes that distract.

8.0
TRM 6.5
Full review ↗
Shortcut Romeo

Shortcut Romeo

2013 · Jun 2013

We wish the director had found a shortcut to tell this story of love,(extra-marital) sex and dhoka.

5.0
TRM 4.4
Full review ↗
Fukrey

Fukrey

2013 · Jun 2013

The story has newness, but at times it lacks the chaotic craziness that such a comic premise can unfold. Yet, the laughs are many to keep you entertained. So what the 'fuk-rey', go, crack up on your seats.

7.0
TRM 5.6
Full review ↗
Gippi

Gippi

2013 · Times Of India · May 2013

Overall, a simple story that stays pre-pubescent and doesn't quite grow into the high-school of stories.

6.0
TRM 5.4
Full review ↗
Aashiqui 2

Aashiqui 2

2013 · Times Of India · May 2013

This could be good soup for the lovers' soul - with a dash of old-world flavour.

7.0
TRM 5.1
Full review ↗
Nautanki Saala

Nautanki Saala

2013 · Times Of India · Apr 2013

This is no Shakespearean act, but there's enough drama, demons and devtaas to rival our desi phantoms of the operas.

7.0
TRM 5.3
Full review ↗
Rangrezz

Rangrezz

2013 · Times Of India · Apr 2013

'Rangrezz', Priyadarshan's remake of a Tamil film, has a story without a convincing purpose, point or plan.

5.0
TRM 4.8
Full review ↗
I M 24

I M 24

2012 · Times Of India · Mar 2013

With a bit of truth, a bit of lies, part spoof, part-real, Saurabh Shukla spins this romcom with witty one-liners, few hilarious scenes, good comic timing, a lot energy (sometimes excessive).

5.0
TRM 4.8
Full review ↗
Khiladi 786

Khiladi 786

2012 · Times Of India · Mar 2013

For those looking for some logic-less laughtime, groovy tunes topped with some todh-podh - this one could bring some action to your weekend.

6.0
TRM 4.3
Full review ↗
Love, Wrinkle-free

Love, Wrinkle-free

2012 · Times Of India · Mar 2013

A traditional Goan woman in her late forties finds herself preggers, breaking cosmetic barriers; and dealing with a hubby whose ambitious business idea can spice up your sex life.

6.0
TRM 5.6
Full review ↗
Chhodo Kal Ki Baatein

Chhodo Kal Ki Baatein

2012 · Times Of India · Mar 2013

After a point, we get the big idea, but the movie continues to preach. And we're waiting to break away from this 'timeless' Sunday-go-round.

4.0
TRM 5.0
Full review ↗
3G

3G

2013 · Times Of India · Mar 2013

With a few chills and fewer thrills, the 'spirit' fizzles here, with little left to toast!

5.0
TRM 4.6
Full review ↗
The Attacks of 26/11

The Attacks of 26/11

2013 · Times Of India · Mar 2013

The date is unforgettable. When terror scarred the face of Mumbai in one blood-soaked gash of death and mass destruction. Held to ransom, ravaged by horror, imbued with venom of a genocidal mass murder that made us all question - 'Why? Why Us?'

5.0
TRM 5.3
Full review ↗
Murder 3

Murder 3

2013 · Times Of India · Mar 2013

The first half ghost-walks into a comfort zone (with songs, romance et al); while the second half terrifyingly twists, with raging emotions and shuddering shock value.

6.0
TRM 5.0
Full review ↗
Jayanta Bhai Ki Luv Story

Jayanta Bhai Ki Luv Story

2013 · Times Of India · Mar 2013

The screenplay is average and it waits a while to take-off. And we wish it had a bit more 'Ram Leela' (read: drama in bhai lingo), but overall it entertains.

6.0
TRM 4.4
Full review ↗
ABCD: Any Body Can Dance

ABCD: Any Body Can Dance

2013 · Times Of India · Mar 2013

This movie isn't about the A-to-Z of dance; but if there's rhythm in your body this one will move you. To the nearest floor.

6.0
TRM 5.4
Full review ↗
Special 26

Special 26

2013 · Times Of India · Mar 2013

Interestingly, this con-job story is not superbly-stylish or stealthily serious. It doesn't stun you with a social message like Pandey's 'A Wednesday', but it grips, excites and ahh...climaxes too! And no ... you can't fake this one! Catch it for pure cinematic orgasm.

7.0
TRM 6.6
Full review ↗
David

David

2013 · Times Of India · Mar 2013

Yes, the Devil's in the detail. But maybe David needed more 'D' of 'Depth' in the story to make this more 'Delightful'.

6.0
TRM 5.5
Full review ↗
Race 2

Race 2

2013 · Times Of India · Mar 2013

Get ready for jobs that 'blow', bare-bods, chains, fists, fruits (of passion) et al.

6.0
TRM 4.8
Full review ↗
Table No. 21

Table No. 21

2013 · Times Of India · Mar 2013

If you're looking for a different taste for your cinema palates (minus the mirch masala), book a seat for Table No. 21. Bon appetit!

6.0
TRM 5.3
Full review ↗
Son of Sardaar

Son of Sardaar

2012 · Times Of India · Nov 2012

Like Jassi says, "Kabhi toh hasliya karo", this one makes you laugh - in parts!

6.0
TRM 4.9
Full review ↗
Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana

Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana

2012 · Times Of India · Nov 2012

One plate Chicken Khurana coming up. Everyone's welcome to dig in. Pure vegetarians, hard-core non-veggies and others. Because, this dish is more a slice of life, than a chicken drumstick, really. So bite into it (with a pinch of salt, of course). A decade after fleeing to the Punjus' very own phoren land, UK, Omi Khurana (Kunal Kapoor) returns home to Lalton village, Punjab, only for selfish reasons.

7.0
TRM 5.9
Full review ↗
Ajab Gazabb Love

Ajab Gazabb Love

2012 · Times Of India · Nov 2012

This film is all about a bunch of people going bananas, yet, it doesn't leave you in splits. But if you care for a few giggles, go watch it.

5.0
TRM 4.3
Full review ↗
Bhoot Returns

Bhoot Returns

2012 · Glamsham · Nov 2012

We did leave with one horrifying thought though - of this Bhoot returning (in a third instalment).

4.0
TRM 3.7
Full review ↗
Kismat Love Paisa Dilli

Kismat Love Paisa Dilli

2012 · Times Of India · Nov 2012

'KLPD' is loaded with lewd jokes, and double-meaning dialogues. So if you're not a fan of the birds, bees and bathroom humour, stay away.

4.0
TRM 3.7
Full review ↗
Maximum

Maximum

2012 · Times Of India · Nov 2012

There are scenes where he triggers good performances, but with the inclusion of too many facts, figures and case files, it loses entertainment value. And gradually the plot fades into dark gullies of our big, bad Maximum city.

6.0
TRM 4.3
Full review ↗
Gangs of Wasseypur - Part 1

Gangs of Wasseypur - Part 1

2012 · Times Of India · Nov 2012

This one's a gang bang. Sorry, make that a gang bang-bang; because that's how this story explodes - with bullets, blasts and bust-ups. Throw in gallons of blood, body-counts and 'boom-boom', true Bihari ishtyle. It doesn't need coal to fuel this revenge drama. It fires on Anurag Kashyap's penchant for the dark, dubious, deadly and daring. Starting in 1941, in the dusk of colonial India, in Wasseypur (Dhanbad), the land of coal and scrap trade, simmers an age-old hatred between Muslims and Muslims (Qureshis V/S Pathans). And the bloodbaths, power struggles, family feuds and gang wars rage over three generations.

8.0
TRM 6.2
Full review ↗
Teri Meri Kahaani

Teri Meri Kahaani

2012 · Times Of India · Nov 2012

To put it simply, this story is - Boy meets girl. Period. Boy meets girl. Period. And boy meets girl. Period...

6.0
TRM 4.5
Full review ↗
Shanghai

Shanghai

2012 · Times Of India · Nov 2012

It's gut-wrenching, it's 'Made in India', unadulterated, 100% desi maal. Hardly sasta, but tikau. Nothing imported. The story pulsates in the heartland of India. Rising from the bed of desi politics, stained with the blood of hatred, guilt and treachery.

7.0
TRM 7.8
Full review ↗
Arjun: The Warrior Prince

Arjun: The Warrior Prince

2012 · Times Of India · Nov 2012

If you've watched animated films like 'Bal Krishna', 'Ghatothkach', 'Hanuman Returns', this one's a far 'sketch', on a different canvas altogether. Directed (by Arnab Chaudhari) using 2G animation, the look is classic and superior by usual standards in Indian animation. Even though it's laced with dialogues that are heavy-weight (like adharm, kartavya, kuruvansh ka sarvanash), the narration of the multi-layered complex saga, laden with countless characters, is easy to comprehend. This journey of a superhero is more for adults than kids on their summer holiday.Of all the amateurish animation films we've seen, this one's a 'God-sent'.

7.0
TRM 6.2
Full review ↗
Ishaqzaade

Ishaqzaade

2012 · Times Of India · Nov 2012

It's the war of the roses. And it's as (t)horny as it can get. Splattered with bandooks and badmaashi, goondas and gaalis - starts this ajab prem kahani. Firebrands Parma (Arjun Kapoor) and Zoya (Parineeti Chopra) are childhood hate-mates, born into politically warring families who've avowed to hate unto death.

6.0
TRM 5.4
Full review ↗
Vicky Donor

Vicky Donor

2012 · Times Of India · Nov 2012

What keeps this film together is the solid supporting cast. Annu Kapoor, in a convincing performance, is bankable as ever. He only speaks sperm language, referring to men as 'complicated sperm', 'confused sperm', et al, and giving advice on how to 'up' the count. Dolly Ahluwalia, plays the dominating mother and saas-serving bahu with melodrama and laughable lines. The unforgettable act is Kamlesh Gill, lighting up every scene with sasuma-like sarcasm, interspersed with witty one-liners and a drunken scene that cracks you up.

8.0
TRM 6.5
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Bittoo Boss

Bittoo Boss

2012 · Times Of India · Nov 2012

Debutant director Babul had an interesting premise to start with, but after the first half, the script is more scattered than sorted. Some caricaturish characters, dialogues with local tadka, and few laughable moments save the day. At a time when sex and 'dirty pictures' sell, Babul scripts a hero who describes sex as 'dilon ka milan.' Ho-hum!.This one had the potential to be an entertainer, but turns out to be a 'bit-too' much.

4.0
TRM 4.7
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Blood Money

Blood Money

2012 · Times Of India · Nov 2012

This one has all the toppings of a 'Bhatt shocker' - drama, emotion, tragedy and some sex. Once again they push the bedroom threshold - a semi-erotic, steamy scene between two women - every man's turn-on fantasy. Debutant director, (Vishal S Mahadkar), tells the story well, though some scenes are very stretched, and tries too hard to provoke a reaction. A faster pace, more potent dialogues, not to add some more dum in Kunal's voice, and a better background score - would have had greater impact.

6.0
TRM 4.0
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Kahaani

Kahaani

2012 · Times Of India · Nov 2012

While the truth is that most women would love to see their husbands 'missing', such is not the case with the dusky Vidya Bagchi (Vidya Balan), whose search for her husband, Arnab Bagchi lands her bang amidst mysterious men and baffling clues in an unknown, sometimes unfriendly city.

9.0
TRM 6.9
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Aiyyaa

Aiyyaa

2012 · Times Of India · Nov 2012

From top to basumm Rani is truly Wonderum! As Meenaxi. Prithviraj is simply Eroticumm! He exudes chiselled, raw sexuality in every scene; gets wet, adds Southern masala with his moves, but says nothing reallySachin Kundalkar starts out well, but while juggling between Marathi matrimonials and midnight-masala, his plot goes 'wakda' (read: digresses). After a few giggles, erotic gasps, and gaanas (Amit Trivedi), the story stretches pointlessly and loses its scent.Even with such a talented ensemble, this one turns into a cultural showpiece, and gets lost in translation. That's the sad-partumm!

5.0
TRM 4.7
Barfi!

Barfi!

2012 · Times Of India · Nov 2012

Everything that has to go wrong will go wrong, but not if you brave it with a broad smiley. So 'mute' the high decibel chaos and deafening melodrama around and tune into Barfi ki duniya; which is simple, sweet and SILENT! Yet, extreme emotions of love, joy and pain resound - at different 'frequencies'.For a story riddled with disabilities, Barfi is more than ably handled by Anurag Basu. He remarkably immerses you in his world of sounds and verbose silences, recreating Chaplin's antics, stripping two superstars down to basics and sensitively spinning a magical world of unconditional love. The narrative is too non-linear at times, and the pace slows in the second half. That apart, it's truly path-breaking for Bollywood.

9.0
TRM 6.8
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