‘SMJ’ desperately tries very hard to sell the age-old idea of revenge and righteousness. But the big booming treatment is a little too hard to accept and digest. With John in the film, one can expect good action, but it’s gruesome and a little too bloody at times. Truth be told, the story is relevant in today’s times, but too many cliches in the story and the style of storytelling will make you want to cop out of this one.

The emotions run high in the film, as a handful of Indians put their personal differences aside to make the country proud. As we witness India winning its first gold as a free nation, you also see the Pakistani players cheer for Indians playing on the field. Moments like this, make ‘Gold’ a film which is more just a sports drama. This one is surely worth its weight in gold.

Vishwaroop 2 is a classic example of overkill. This multi-lingual film has been shot in both Hindi and Tamil. And despite having some genuinely good moments, the film tries to put forth a little too much, a little too quickly.

While Parshya and Archi’s love story in Sairat was made with great honesty, realism and depth, giving us a perspective of the deep rooted prejudices in our society, Dhadak touches upon them too, but it merely skims the surface. Perhaps more attention to detail and delving a little deeper into the subject, would have given the film an edge. The lead up to the climax creates palpable tension, and the ending is hard-hitting, leaving you with enough to think about. With all its strengths and weaknesses, Dhadak attempts to highlight some shocking truths about our society and for that it makes a worthy watch.

…the performances by Josh Brolin and Benicio del Toro are top notch. Brolin plays the clay-cold Graver with ease, while del Toro builds on the legend of his character and his ability to be Mexico’s version of Léon: The Professional. While he’s not dodging bullets, he can pull off the most outrageous feats with ease. If you enjoy the thrill of gun fights and larger-than-life characters, Sicario 2 can be an engaging experience. Just don’t expect it to make too much sense.

Presenting a biopic on a man with so many shades and one who’s lived a life of such extremes is a no mean feat. Hirani, in his signature style, takes you through Sanju’s remarkable journey with the finesse and commitment it needs. In the film, Sanju’s wife says that he’s the king of bad choices, and Hirani’s idea of making a film on his life has certainly paid off. Yes, there’s a lot missing, but even then, this is still an incredible story of a man and a movie star who made massive mistakes, walked through fire, survived it and lived one heck of a life.

Race 3 just does not work up the feeling of suspense and intrigue that made the previous masala movies from the franchise a guilty pleasure. This film has a lot of visual appeal but the all style and no substance approach makes this 2 hours 40 minutes film a real drag.

Bhavesh Joshi Superhero needs to be appreciated for what it sets out to do – stirring the common man out of apathy by channelising our anger. It doesn’t entirely succeed, but Vikramaditya Motwane’s take on the superhero genre is worth a look.

The four leading ladies break the proverbial glass ceiling with their sexy stilettos. We’ve rarely seen women on screen who are so uninhibited about their life, sexuality and desires. In that respect, ‘Veere Di Wedding’ is a brave effort indeed. This film will find an appeal with the younger generations who can relate to the discussions and dilemmas of these veeres.

The only minor grouse with this romantic comedy is the fact that it doesn’t bring in the gravitas and depth that you’d want to see with such a fantastic line-up of acting legends. The film stays flaky and frivolous. Thankfully, it’s very entertaining and the sight of an 80-year-old Jane Fonda, looking like a million bucks throughout, is just a testament to the fact that somethings never get old. Ditto for romantic comedies.