A suspense drama with a nail-biting finish, Drishyam holds the viewer by the eyeballs till its’ engaging climax.

Ajay, who is the prey here, shines in his role of the protective father. While his family definitely needed to be cast in a more discerning fashion, half a star in this review is reserved for Tabu, who is outstanding as his predator.

The film unspools in an unhurried manner, occasionally tugging hard at your heartstrings. The urgency with which youngsters from India’s heartland feel the need to discover Facebook, forbidden fruit and freedom has been captured well.

The performances of the entire cast including that of the child actor Nikhil Sahni are praiseworthy. Masaan has pure desi magic woven in.

The film works, albeit on some level, because of its gritty writing. What could have genuinely raised the bar though, is a slicker pace, additional gloss and superstar charisma.

Like most dance movies (made in the West or Bollywood), the malady we are hit with is that while the dancing is professional, the writing is amateur. So, you whoop and whistle when the dances are on. But stifle a yawn between the gravity-defying grooves.

…an adult comedy should rely on a crackerjack style. All said and done, if you’re up for something naughty, try Hunterrr.

While the waif-like Amy looks mesmerising, Vikram bowls you over with a heart-wrenching performance whether he is handsome or disfigured. Santhanam provides the perfect comic relief. The first fight in a local gymnasium and the BMX bike fight on Chinese rooftops are an adrenaline fix. This is pure escapist fare but will resonate with those who read fairy tales at bedtime.

Amit Sharma’s Tevar, a remake of the Telugu hit Okkadu (2003), is over-a-decade-old wine served on a larger canvas.
Amit makes a smooth progression from 30-second commercials to a 159-minute-long film. His penchant for colours, the right use of the Taj Mahal (as a monument of love), his finesse in presenting the real locations indicate his adroitness in filmmaking.

While the pace does dip in the second half, what makes Ugly tick is the searing honesty with which it is told. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but for those who are willing to let the morally decrepit live.

…the film lacks gloss but it still works as an eye-opener. It also depicts how even back then India had morally corrupt politicians who barely spared a thought for the plight of the common man! Somethings don’t change. In spite of depicting a film based on true incidents, the film is not a documentary and manages to connect emotionally.

Anand’s film has no grammar. But it compensates with breathtaking locales and stylishly choreographed stunts. It also works as a show reel for the bronzed Roshan with his six-pack abs and the enviable midriff of Kaif wearing a red polka-dotted bikini top. Their horseplay caters to an audience that is low on IQ and high on adrenalin!