In the wake of Sarbjit Singh’s story and its relevance, all shortcomings of the movie become redundant. But end of the day, this is a commercial film and you can’t discount the quality of cinema. On that count, Sarbjit is a definite letdown. Considering the subject matter, this movie should’ve been a lot better than it turns out.

Director Tony D’Souza’s Azhar is a vanilla look at a story that could’ve been both riveting and hard hitting. In stead of presenting Mohammed Azharuddin as a man of many contradictions and supreme talent, it portrays him as a victim and stoic person. In a classic example of bad taste, the film also casts moral aspersions on other cricketers but projects Azhar as a righteous hero.  It’s the oldest trick in the book to gain sympathy. Sadly, it’s just not good enough.

The main reason you’d want to watch Money Monster is for Clooney and Roberts, whose performances elevate the film above its script. Together they bring in the chemistry of Ocean’s Eleven and make things fun. The film keeps you on your toes at all times, even though the climax does fizzle out a bit. Watch this and you may not be moved but you’ll definitely be entertained.

It just doesn’t have the resolve or dexterity to sway you with an argument or a stand. The supporting performances by the likes of Mahie Gill and Pallavi Joshi are listless. Even connoisseurs of art cinema will admit that after a point, Buddha just seems all up in the air. The only thing it can provoke in its viewer is ennui. Another one of those well intentioned movies that go absolutely nowhere.

As for 1920 London, the film’s strength is the production design with it’s fancy English locations and authentic vintage cars on offer. The usual characteristics of a horror film, like eerie music, make-up, special effects and moody cinematography are all lackluster though. If you like genuine thrills you’d have to look away. This one’s just for gags.
 

One Night Stand is a very competent film. It’s commercial packaging does create a bit of contrast to its relevantly real themes. But that’s not really a bad thing. Even with it’s middle of the road approach, this edgy film on sexual flings and intimate relationships has the right ideas. Watch this and you’ll be bound to giving it a nod of recognition.

Despite a lengthy runtime, Civil War draws you into a world where superheroes are essentially just individuals fighting for their rights. There’s no looming sense of evil and doom. Not archaic antagonists or bad guys. The good guys bring in enough grey shades. They’re just super powered people fighting for their ideologies. And it all proves the point that; great source material will always result in a great cinematic experience. Do not miss the veritable, action movie of the year.

Despite it’s minor flaws Traffic is a film that deserves attention and an audience. It’s a fantastic story of human spirit. It should be able to inspire every individual to think and find the heart to help out others in times of need. It’s just the sort of film that makes the world seem like a better place. It’s a must watch for sure.

Mother’s Day should’ve been the film to watch on Mother’s Day come May 8th. But it’s really hard to recommend a film born out of suburban American formula to an Indian audience. Apart from the pretty faces and the challenges of raising kids, there’s nothing really that would connect with any of us.

It tells an important story and it does make a meal out of the subject. Ramanujan’s tale needs an audience because in terms of achievement his contribution to the world of mathematics was perhaps greater than that of Sachin Tendulkar’s to cricket.