Reagan Gavin Rasquinha
Times Of India
A technology, gaming, features and music journalist at the Times Group.
Most Divergent Takes
- Taken 3 (2015)8.0 vs TRM 4.3+3.7
- Black Mass (2015)9.0 vs TRM 6.0+3.0
- Suicide Squad (2016)8.0 vs TRM 5.2+2.8
- Zed Plus (2014)3.0 vs TRM 5.8-2.8
- The Magnificent Seven (2016)8.0 vs TRM 5.6+2.4
The Girl on the Train
2016 · Times Of India · Oct 2016
If you like morbid whodunit thrillers that make you feel like you are trapped in a dark room with no glimmer of hope whatsoever; this brutal, twisted and voyeuristic tale is bound to leave you gasping for breath.
Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children
2016 · Times Of India · Oct 2016
Essentially, this is everything – absolutely typical and more – that you'd expect from a Tim Burton-helmed film.
Storks
2016 · Times Of India · Sep 2016
Sure, the script is funny and there are plenty of sight gags. But while its economical run-time won't have tiny tots shifting impatiently in their seats, you might get the feeling that the film was a tad rushed along the way. In fact, to call the film fast-paced is an understatement. Nonetheless, the entertainment factor is still present and strongly so, and credit must be given for the rather original premise of the story. Kids are sure to find this one enjoyable.
Bridget Jones's Baby
2016 · Times Of India · Sep 2016
Even though a lengthy two hours, the narrative skips along rather nicely. Fans of the series are sure to like it.
The Magnificent Seven
2016 · Times Of India · Sep 2016
A good mix of gravitas, comic relief and attempts at some deep stuff with lines like "What we've lost in the fire, we'll find in the ashes". Saddle up for a thrilling ride with this modern-day Western packed with action.
Robinson Crusoe
2016 · Times Of India · Sep 2016
Robinson Crusoe has its share of action and the brisk pace does help. The animal and bird characters are no doubt lovely to watch. The sight gags and snappy one-liners will also elicit a few laughs from children. However, after a point it can at times veer into slapstick zones. A slightly better screenplay too would have enhanced the film further. But by and large, it doesn't detract anything from the general message of the film, which is about the importance of teamwork, collaboration, and friendship in tough situations. The rendering of the animation itself is decent, without being over-saturated. Fun fare for kids.
The Shallows
2016 · Times Of India · Sep 2016
Okay, Collet-Serra has taken a few liberties (read: many gratuitous close-ups of Lively's pert posterior) here but all said and done, this is without a doubt the actress' most daring and challenging role to date. Blake Lively, take a bow. You rock.
Sully
2016 · Times Of India · Sep 2016
Hanks is fantastic as Sully. In fact, this is a fantastic film. Go watch it.
Don't Breathe
2016 · Times Of India · Sep 2016
Suffice to say that within the first few minutes of the movie, you'll find out why it's called Don't Breathe. It's fantastic. Go watch it.
Skiptrace
2016 · Times Of India · Sep 2016
If you like Jackie Chan's brand of cinema, make no mistake; you will enjoy this.
Mechanic: Resurrection
2016 · Times Of India · Aug 2016
The plot of this film, as mentioned earlier, is simple enough for a toddler to fathom. But action junkies will get their mainline fix with this one.
Nine Lives
2016 · Times Of India · Aug 2016
This is a simple movie, with a simple little moral and not one to be dissected and examined frame by frame. There is humour, there is fun and Nine Lives is honestly, quite enjoyable. It will put a smile on your face.
War Dogs
2016 · Times Of India · Aug 2016
There's a generous dose of fiction thrown in but for the most part, War Dogs serves up some pretty kick ass entertainment.
Ben-Hur
2016 · Times Of India · Aug 2016
Morgan Freeman's character - a shrewd but honest merchant who cannot resist a good bet - is sagely wise enough, and he carries it off with effortless ease. All in all, justice has been done to this tale of epic scale.
Suicide Squad
2016 · Times Of India · Aug 2016
Suicide Squad has all the ingredients that are collectively essential to a superhero film. Action, witty dialogues delivered at the best of times and lots of special effects thrown in as well. But what this gang of delightfully crazy rogues offer is something subversive, a disregard for any pretense of doing something noble, and yet, they are all motivated by a simple desire to just get a chance at living a normal life again.
Bad Moms
2016 · Times Of India · Jul 2016
Bad Moms sometimes falters when attempts at mushy sentimentality are made. That being said, as a buddy flick, it delivers the goods, with a good amount of laugh-out-loud moments too.
Lights Out
2016 · Times Of India · Jul 2016
If you're relying on jump scares and thing that go bump in the dark, you won't find it here. The horror genre has already had a surfeit of means and methods that rely on that. Sure, on the other side, the film can be dark and can be slow for those who aren't into this kind of psychological horror. However, no doubt, it is refreshing to see something chillingly different in this genre.
Star Trek Beyond
2016 · Times Of India · Jul 2016
To sum things up, get ready for some interesting side adventures, snappy dialogues, brilliant CGI, an entertaining score (the retro hit by Beastie Boys' Sabotage) and also a relationship angle, for good measure. The kind of blend that is signature JJ Abrams (he has a co-producer credit). Then there's the enemy leader Krall (Elba) who is bad to the bone no doubt, but without being over-the-top. A few logical fallacies aside, this one's really enjoyable.
Ice Age: Collision Course
2016 · Times Of India · Jul 2016
Collision Course is a relentless, fun-filled, fast-paced and most recent part in a long-running series that is pretty much sure to keep the kids (the audience for this movie) entertained with its energy.
The Secret Life of Pets
2016 · Times Of India · Jul 2016
It wouldn't take much of a stretch of imagination to think that the filmmakers themselves love animals. All in all, Pets comes across as a breath of fresh air in the world of animated films.
My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2
2016 · Times Of India · May 2016
As an ensemble comedy, it somewhat works. But the jokes could have been more in number. Pass the spanakopita, please.
Criminal
2016 · Times Of India · May 2016
Sure, there is a fair bit of violence. And yes, it might seem needlessly gratuitous at times but you can let that slip as you've probably not seen Costner in this challenging a role (for him at least) in quite a while. The London location also makes for a beautiful backdrop for the film. Definitely different, and interesting.
Money Monster
2016 · Times Of India · May 2016
Watch this one. It is more than just a hostage-crisis film. It tries hard to make you think about the bigger picture, and mostly succeeds.
Pelé: Birth of a Legend
2016 · Times Of India · May 2016
What can bog the film down at times though is that it can get a bit heavy-handed. The very same emotion that it goes for, can make it a bit drippy at times. The movie's trajectory is also a bit predictable and you should know that this film focuses quite squarely on his early life.
Captain America: Civil War
2016 · Times Of India · May 2016
Rogers' mistrust regarding new-world values (compared to the time he was from) is nicely explored. His unwillingness to compromise on his code is seen to great effect. There is darkness, there is depth, but the important thing is that the element of fun is also most definitely present. Oh and needless to say, don't miss Stan Lee's cameo and do stay for the post-credits scene.
The Man Who Knew Infinity
2016 · Times Of India · Apr 2016
The period detailing - be it a rustic locale or sophisticated surroundings - is quite superb. Brown also tries to give the story an emotional touch, to good effect. And in fact, it is this which makes this film both enjoyable and gripping.
10 Cloverfield Lane
2016 · Times Of India · Apr 2016
The camerawork perfectly captures their closed surroundings, with tight angles, thereby accentuating dramatic tension. Winstead's performance is also amazing, evoking both empathy and intensity with equal ease. Don't miss this gem of a thriller.
Mother's Day
2016 · Times Of India · Apr 2016
All said and done, the two strongest points of this film would basically be Julia Roberts and a bit of slapstick humour.
The Huntsman: Winter's War
2016 · Times Of India · Apr 2016
All said and done though, it's the visual dazzle that keeps this one afloat.
Before I Wake
2016 · Times Of India · Apr 2016
Flanagan relies heavily on jump-scares. Brooding silences punctuated by loud crashes, bangs and demons in the background. It is all too predictable for horror buffs. The disturbed kid syndrome was played up to good effect in Babadook, The Ring and of course classic horror like Exorcist. But what we get here is a thin stew instead of a hearty brew. This is at best, cookie-cutter horror that joins the dots, fine, but it doesn't dish out anything memorable.
Demolition
2016 · Times Of India · Apr 2016
Plenty of metaphors - some unnecessary - but decent fare, on the whole.
The Jungle Book
2016 · Times Of India · Apr 2016
...the intricate landscaping, masterful camerawork and environment (actually filmed in Downtown Los Angeles) create a delightfully immersive experience. Heartwarming and enjoyable.
The Divergent Series: Allegiant
2016 · Times Of India · Apr 2016
...while the underlying concept of the series is the examination of a big social experiment, this gets lost in the film. Extremely lackluster fare, overall.
Kung Fu Panda 3
2016 · Times Of India · Mar 2016
Although a slightly over-dramatic ending holds the film back from greater heights, this is on the whole, quite enjoyable for kids as well as adults.
Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice
2016 · Times Of India · Mar 2016
The movie is packed with references - both visual and dialogue-wise - to classic comic lore. Underpinning everything is Hans Zimmer and Junkie XL's score. An artillery barrage of action.
Norm of the North
2016 · Times Of India · Mar 2016
...just when things are getting to get cute, Norm has to inexplicably break out in to the 'Arctic Dance'. The only redeeming factors here are the underwater scenes and the part when Norm visits a sushi parlor. Let's hope that the sequel - if there is one - has better to offer.
Eye in the Sky
2016 · Times Of India · Mar 2016
The only weak spot is the way the drone pilots' emotions are depicted. In real life, they'd surely be trained to deal with the prospect of collateral damage. That aside, this is definitely one of Gavin Hood's (X-Men Origins: Wolverine, Ender's Game) better films. Eye In The Sky hits the bulls eye.
Bus 657
2016 · Times Of India · Mar 2016
Working in this film's favor is the aforementioned brisk pace and the taut editing. It somehow adds to the sense of desperation and urgency that the lead pair feels. Overall, a passable action potboiler.
The Program
2016 · Times Of India · Mar 2016
The Program can be viewed as especially relevant, given that doping in sport is coincidentally, in the news again.
Race
2016 · Times Of India · Mar 2016
Although the wordplay behind the title of this film is clever - the Olympics race as well as the racial discrimination Owens (James) faces in both the US and Germany - this is by and large, quite a no-nonsense movie about a legendary athlete.
Triple 9
2016 · Times Of India · Mar 2016
Apart from an unnecessary profusion of subplots, you'll likely find this heist-thriller to be quite satisfying.
13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi
2016 · Times Of India · Mar 2016
...the film's biggest draw is the action scenes. The fire fights are bloody and will get you right in the gut. No effort is spared in depicting the realities of a prolonged gun battle spread out over 13 sleepless, exhausting hours. The cinematography puts you right in the centre of the melee. Make no mistake about it. This is an immersive and visceral film.
London Has Fallen
2016 · Times Of India · Mar 2016
Expect every action film cliche to be thrown in. Also, you might wonder what the heck Gerard Butler is doing with his career. But that said, it is clear that he knows his niche. Clearly, this one's for die hard Butler fans.
Zootopia
2016 · Times Of India · Mar 2016
While there has been a smattering of animated films out in the last couple of months, few can lay claim to having a lasting, residual feel-good factor to it. Some go over-the-top in terms of colour saturation. Others were just too outlandish and some are crammed full of moralistic messages for children. But thankfully, Zootopia doesn't suffer from any of these wearisome traits.
45 Years
2016 · Times Of India · Mar 2016
The direction and screenplay (intertitles are used) is understated, but younger viewers might find themselves stifling a yawn or two at times. The slow pace however, can make 45 Years' somewhat brisk run-time seem much longer. On the other hand, the film is perfect for the elderly to see, be intrigued by and savor.
Gods of Egypt
2016 · Times Of India · Feb 2016
Interestingly, there a handful of jokes are scattered throughout the script. Some cheeky lines delivered deadpan-style could have livened things up greatly if the writers were more generous with it. If kitsch mythology and a swords-and-sandals clad Butler along with various bosomy lasses float your boat, it's passable.
The Revenant
2016 · Times Of India · Feb 2016
From the first frame, you know you're in for something special and it's pretty clear that Leonardo has given his everything to this film.
Pride and Prejudice and Zombies
2016 · Times Of India · Feb 2016
...while zombie films ride on blood and guts galore, there simply isn't enough gore in here to satisfy those who even like the zombie genre. So what we really have is a film that cannot be taken seriously either as a satire, as a period film and neither as a zombie film.
Spotlight
2016 · Times Of India · Feb 2016
The real life investigation conducted by the team of Spotlight journalists won them a Pulitzer Prize. In case you do watch this movie - and it is highly recommended that you do - it'll be easy to see why they won that honour. Bold, audacious and shocking, a consummate piece of work.
Trumbo
2016 · Times Of India · Feb 2016
While the period detailing is great, the film does have a few historical inaccuracies. And yes, the pace can be a bit slow at times but the emotional intensity of the film never sags. And John McNamara's script saves the day.
Deadpool
2016 · Times Of India · Feb 2016
Supported by a very clever script, Deadpool is deliciously irreverent, subversive and uproariously funny.
How to Be Single
2016 · Times Of India · Feb 2016
If you like stories about complicated relationships, this might be the ticket for you.
The Choice
2016 · Times Of India · Feb 2016
Without giving away any spoilers, suffice to say that Katz does attempt steer the storyline into deeper territory towards the finale of the film. Wanna watch it? Your choice, really.
The Finest Hours
2016 · Times Of India · Feb 2016
Enjoy movies about daring rescues? Go watch this...
Room
2016 · Times Of India · Feb 2016
...this is a beautiful tale of a mother's love for her child, selfless and pure. Joy will do anything - and she does indeed - to ensure the well being of her charge. And yet, their existence is curiously symbiotic. Very few movies are able to touch upon the bond between a mother and child with such tender grace, set in contemporary times.
Asterix: The Mansions Of The Gods
2016 · Times Of India · Jan 2016
Astier, Clichy and crew have - in terms of renderings and dialogues - stayed very faithful to Rene Goscinny and Albert Uderzo's beloved characters and have dished out something that is both briskly-paced as well as entertaining enough for its core audience, children. This one makes for some fairly delightful viewing.
Point Break
2016 · Times Of India · Jan 2016
Point Break comes across as a string of admittedly amazing action sequences and sports feats with the rest of the film haphazardly built up around it. The logic of going base jumping and snowboarding to combat climate change is bizarre. One scene will remind you of Fight Club. Another, of The Beach. Ray Winstone, who plays a grizzled agent, could have deserved more screen time. If you bother to watch it at all, treat it like a showreel for extreme sports, as it's pretty unengaging from almost every other angle.
Monster Hunt
2016 · Times Of India · Jan 2016
There is nothing really monster-like about these well-rendered characters. They're not scary-looking; in fact, they resemble inflated toys. And in terms of emotional quotient, they express the same kind of feelings as the humans do. There is a moral angle here - that about learning how to coexist, acceptance and other good values. This one will keep the kids entertained.
Star Wars: The Force Awakens
2015 · Times Of India · Dec 2015
The storytelling is top notch. It's a carefully-crafted dance of nuance that balances a bit of everything. The set pieces are spectacular and then of course, there are the lightsaber battles... The Force is indeed, epic with this one. Don't miss it.
The Peanuts Movie
2015 · Times Of India · Dec 2015
Notwithstanding the breezy run-time, each of the characters get their due. Christophe Beck's soundtrack also helps in keeping the pace jaunty, even during parts without dialogue, of which there are quite a few. This one will both charm the adults and keep the kids entertained.
Everly
2015 · Times Of India · Dec 2015
On the plus side, the action scenes are slick and stylish. But as mentioned earlier, too much of it does weigh a bit heavily on you. But all said and done, this is Salma Hayek channeling her inner GI Jane. It could have been way more ambitions though.
In the Heart of the Sea
2015 · Times Of India · Dec 2015
...this is definitely a gripping tale that's worth watching.
Legend
2015 · Times Of India · Dec 2015
Legend has all the elements of a period gangster film in place, along with dollops of additional dash and verve. It is stylish (the brothers are almost always in bespoke suits) and slick but somewhere down the halfway mark, takes a fearsome, dark twist. But more than anything else, it is a showcase for the formidable acting talents of Tom Hardy, last seen in the huge hit, Mad Max: Fury Road.
Creed
2015 · Times Of India · Nov 2015
Every once in a while, there comes along a sports drama film that challenges odds and defies expectations - much like the hero of this film, Apollo Creed's son. While Stallone has not written this film, Ryan Coogler makes deft work with this subtle, moving and nuanced tale of interpersonal relationships.
The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2
2015 · Times Of India · Nov 2015
What immediately makes this film more exciting than the previous installments in this series is that there's a lot of action, a few scares too, and plenty of thrills to keep fans of this franchise well entertained. The only downside though, is an overly-protracted ending, which is reminiscent of how long the ending of the final Lord of the Rings movie was.
Secret in Their Eyes
2015 · Times Of India · Nov 2015
All in all, a fairly gripping tale.
Wrecker
2015 · Times Of India · Nov 2015
The film's only plus points are a few jump scares, slickness and the scenic great outdoors, where it was shot. Apart from that, there's little else to recommend.
Hotel Transylvania 2
2015 · Times Of India · Nov 2015
Backed by a delightful cast and animation effects that are thankfully not over-the-top and too gaudy, Hotel Transylvania 2 is subtly intelligent and is a film that even the adults among the audience will not get fidgety sitting through - thanks to some scary images, exciting action and rude humor - while the kids have a ball.
Paranormal Activity: The Ghost Dimension
2015 · Times Of India · Nov 2015
What made PA originally effective was that it was lo-fi, not about CGI, as in the case here. In any event, the scares only happen at the very end. All in all, Ghost Dimension does not really deliver the excitement that horror film fans seek.
Burnt
2015 · Times Of India · Nov 2015
Sure, there are shots of sole being filleted, scallops being diced, shallots caramelizing in a pan, garlic mashed potatoes being whisked and filet mignon steaks browning on a hot plate while being sauced over. But Wells' Burnt puts the focus on Jones (Cooper) and his tantrum-laden temperament that's apparently justified by the fact that he can cook better than anybody.
The Last Witch Hunter
2015 · Times Of India · Oct 2015
Vin Diesel and subtlety don't necessarily go hand-in-hand. Accordingly, there are acrobatic battles with flaming swords, blazing shotguns and CGI ghouls aplenty. Caine and Wood dial in their performances but it's Rose Leslie who is in form here; her character could have been explored in greater depth.
Rock the Kasbah
2015 · Times Of India · Oct 2015
While the film's basic premise is unusual and in parts interesting, it loses steam in the second half, with a fairly bland conclusion.
Crimson Peak
2015 · Times Of India · Oct 2015
There's plenty of doom and Gothic gloom in here but at its heart, this is a beautiful story (albeit a rather unusual one) of courage, and love.
Bridge of Spies
2015 · Times Of India · Oct 2015
A gripping thriller, this one is bold, audacious and shocking...
The Walk
2015 · Times Of India · Oct 2015
While Petit's journey from novice to expert is breezed through, the final 40 minutes of the film, really suits the 3D treatment, makes it all worthwhile. Delightfully quaint and definitely entertaining.
Sicario
2015 · Times Of India · Oct 2015
Sicario is heavy on action and gritty realism. This is without a doubt, one of the best movies out this year.
The Intern
2015 · Times Of India · Sep 2015
The Intern is a generational matchup of Baby Boomer-meets-millennial mindset with the office as a backdrop. You'll watch it for De Niro and Hathaway's easy onscreen chemistry.
Everest
2015 · Times Of India · Sep 2015
Straight off the bat, the single most impressive aspect about this film really is the geographical titan that is the Everest, in all its towering, windswept, snow-capped glory. Salvatore Totino's cinematography puts you right out there with the climbers, feeling that same sense of excitement, fear, trepidation and determination that the mountaineers themselves felt.
Pawn Sacrifice
2015 · Times Of India · Sep 2015
Playing Fischer, Maguire accurately portrays the frustration that the people close to the real chess prodigy felt, but understood and tolerated because they knew that this was no ordinary guy. Essaying a complex character like Fischer isn't easy, but Maguire does a pretty admirable job of it. You might just want to bring out that old chessboard after watching this one.
Black Mass
2015 · Times Of India · Sep 2015
Watch it for Johnny Depp and Joel Edgerton's masterful performances.
We Are Your Friends
2015 · Times Of India · Sep 2015
Romance subplot aside though, we see that Reed clearly has some past issue. This, or the reason behind his fame, is never explained. Surprising, as Reed and Cole are pole characters. Cole learns his lessons but a little grittiness interspersed with the neon party lights and techno flash would've made things more interesting. Simply put, you'll watch it if you're big fan of Efron or Ratajkowski.
Hitman: Agent 47
2015 · Times Of India · Sep 2015
While the film lacks warmth, there's plenty of Euro-camp action here. Police cars emblazoned with 'Polizei' in car chases down narrow streets and more gunfights than dialogues. The action is slick and indeed, very stylish. Don't expect much from the script; you don't watch a movie like Hitman while expecting Shakespearian prose delivered as shots are fired. Get your action fix here.
The Transporter: Refueled
2015 · Times Of India · Sep 2015
The bright spots are the action sequences and Luc Besson protege Camille Delamarre's aim at visual stylishness. So if you do decide to go see this, it will be for the babes, car chases and the action sequences.
Ricki and the Flash
2015 · Times Of India · Aug 2015
The performances are mostly solid. Real-life rocker Springfield plays Ricki's bandmate and lover. And Gummer's screen presence is credible and good. Some of the film's best scenes involve her. But by the end of the film, you might find yourself wondering if Streep (she plays and sings for real here) really is in a rock n' roll band on the side. Yes, she's that convincing.
The Gift
2015 · Times Of India · Aug 2015
The Gift is uniformly intense without being heavy. Not for one second does it drag. If you enjoy psych-thrillers, there will be plenty to think about long after the end credits have rolled. Do not miss this one.
Vacation
2015 · Times Of India · Aug 2015
While the film is supposed to derive loose inspiration from National Lampoon's Vacation (1983), there are actually just a few similarities. For example, this version spares nothing when it comes to bawdiness and potty humour that can either hugely tickle your funny bone, or put you off, if naughty jokes don't float your boat.
Shaun the Sheep Movie
2015 · Times Of India · Aug 2015
There are a few clever messages slipped into the story. Such as the subtle impart that (in Shaun's case) with freedom comes responsibility. There are other poignant moments, like a scene where stray animals are put up for adoption, and we see via their actions just how keen they are to be welcomed into a new home. All in all, fun viewing for kids.
Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation
2015 · Times Of India · Aug 2015
A winsome mix of old school and new, Rogue Nation will thrill you throughout.
Pixels
2015 · Times Of India · Aug 2015
Pixels is heavy on 80s iconography, with games like Pac Man, Centipede, Donkey Kong and even characters like Max Headroom being represented. While an older generation may get these references, the same might be lost on younger audiences. Sandler unfortunately brings nothing new to the table; his expressions remain the same as you'd have seen in The Wedding Singer.
The Vatican Tapes
2015 · Times Of India · Jul 2015
...while there are a few appropriately scary scenes, the overall feeling is that Neveldine could have served up far more terrifying film if he'd pushed the envelope more, given the intense subject matter.
Ant-Man
2015 · Times Of India · Jul 2015
Guardians of the Galaxy ushered in a new flavor of superhero films - of fairly 'ordinary' people who learn to do extraordinary things - and this brings a more human angle to the film. Ant-Man continues the trend. Oh, and don't miss Marvel legend Stan Lee's cameo too!
The Gallows
2015 · Times Of India · Jul 2015
The found footage horror sub-genre came into its own back when we saw The Blair Witch Project. There has been a clutch of films since then that serve up cinematic variations of found footage fare. Some work, some don't. The Gallows lies somewhere in between.
Terminator Genisys
2015 · Times Of India · Jul 2015
It goes without saying that the effects are top-notch. Terminator Genisys overhauls the franchise that made the phrase 'I'll be back' a part of pop culture. More than anything, you'll watch it for Arnold. For as once promised, he's indeed, back.
Amy
2015 · Times Of India · Jul 2015
Amy's last years are depicted respectfully. Even during the most unflattering moments, like her last, disastrous gig in Belgrade, there is no hint of cinematic suggestion. The most touching sequence however, has got to be her recording session with jazz legend Tony Bennett at Abbey Road, which reveals what a vulnerable and sensitive soul she really was. If you're a fan of her music, you wouldn't want to miss this. The singer may be gone but the songs thankfully, live on.
Pitch Perfect 2
2015 · Times Of India · Jul 2015
The most enjoyable aspect about Pitch Perfect 2 is the singing. The vocals are polished, joyful and the interplay between the trained voices is seamless, forming a delightful musical tapestry. This more than makes up for some of the negatives, such as the uneven script and the sometimes jerky transitions between set pieces. But then again, if you watch this film, you're not going to do so for scintillating dialogues. By and large, PP2 is a fun film with its best moments being of the musical variety.
Child 44
2015 · Times Of India · Jun 2015
Tom Hardy has clearly carved a niche for himself as an actor with versatility as his middle name. Right from his breakthrough performance in Inception to Mad Max: Fury Road and now this, if you do decide to watch this film, it will be to check out the kind of realism that Hardy brings to his character.
Insidious: Chapter 3
2015 · Times Of India · Jun 2015
The film is high on ominousness, especially those dark atmospherics when Elise slips into the 'Further', a place fraught with danger. With the prequel and the subsequent two films now covering the gamut of scares, it's clear that the next one in the series will have to have some new ideas to keep the franchise fresh.
Inside Out
2015 · Times Of India · Jun 2015
Dressed up in colourful and wildly imaginative garb - yet making sense every step of the way - Inside Out can be enjoyed by a variety of age groups and is both nuanced and sensitive without sacrificing the fun angle.
Entourage
2015 · Times Of India · Jun 2015
As with the show, the movie has plenty of plenty of cameos. You might on one hand, find the main characters a bit too breezy, but those familiar with the various seasons of the show will find all of what they see to be reassuringly familiar and fun.
Spy
2015 · Times Of India · Jun 2015
Spy manages to combine humour and intelligence into one really entertaining package.
The Duff
2015 · Times Of India · Jun 2015
Despite the very predictable way the movie moves along, the message here is simple, well-known and comfortingly reassuring - that if someone loves you, they will do so because of who you really are on the inside.
Jurassic World
2015 · Times Of India · Jun 2015
The effects are superb, the action is supersized and ultimately, if there is just one word that can describe this movie, that word would be 'awesome'.
The Age of Adaline
2015 · Times Of India · Jun 2015
Apart from an ending that seemed a tad stretched and the voiceovers that were unnecessary, this is an unusual and engaging saga of everlasting love.
What We Did on Our Holiday
2015 · Times Of India · Jun 2015
It's paced pretty nicely too, helped along with an at times tart and mostly witty script, with the director duo having writing credits too. Pike is nothing short of charming, as is indeed, the entire film.
Maggie
2015 · Times Of India · Jun 2015
The film straddles a sort of middle ground between scary and family drama and it takes a look at the other side of a zombie film - the human side sans violence. Refreshingly, jump scares are diligently avoided too. Breslin's performance is both intense as well as moving. But most surprisingly, Maggie sees a rather interesting change of pace for Arnold Schwarzenegger, who pulls off playing a caring, sensitive character pretty well indeed.
Poltergeist
2015 · Times Of India · May 2015
The Bowen's house of horrors is a minefield of scares. Evil dolls, clowns, toys and even the gnarled old tree outside. And of course, closets that contain more than just clothes and shoes. Interesting modern touches, such as an innovative use for a drone and a rogue smartphone are added but the pace is just too breezy.
Tomorrowland
2015 · Times Of India · May 2015
Tomorrowland is an ambitious, sprawling tale involving different generations, time travel and visions of the future. If there's one simple fact that the film clearly establishes during its expansive run-time, it is that humanity's collective actions will have a direct impact on the days and years to come.
Danny Collins
2015 · Times Of India · May 2015
In undoubtedly his best performance in years, Al Pacino has taken this story - inspired by the true tale of folk singer Steve Tilston who received a letter from Lennon that wasn't delivered for decades - and elevated it to a whole different level altogether.
Mad Max: Fury Road
2015 · Times Of India · May 2015
The cinematography puts you in front and centre, almost feeling every crazy twist and turn in a chase as characters scramble and fight over, under, above and in front of flat-out weirdly pimped out vehicles. Some scenes are just flat-out bizarre. However, the attention to detail is fantastic. On the flip side, the constant barrage on the senses will polarize viewers - you'll either not like it at all or you'll love it. So there you have it. If you want your big screen thrill ride this summer, this might just be the ticket.
Hot Pursuit
2015 · Times Of India · May 2015
It's a good thing this movie makes no remote hint of a pretense to take itself seriously because going by the gag reel at the end credits itself (yes, stick around for that) it's clear that the cast members themselves had more than a bunch of laugh-out-loud moments while shooting. The movie's humour rides on the random pairing of these two ladies.
The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water
2015 · Times Of India · May 2015
Clearly, the screenwriters were having a ball as the film is full of unexplained randomness, like SpongeBob and friends morphing into superheroes. It all works, more so because of the tight editing and economical run-time. Kids might not necessarily get the message about pooling in resources to solve a big problem but then you don't watch SpongeBob for social messages.
While We're Young
2015 · Times Of India · May 2015
...the deft editing and the quick pace makes this a fun watch.
The Water Diviner
2015 · Times Of India · Apr 2015
Some parts also resemble a tourism promo for 'Exotic Turkey'. This is not to say, however, that the camera work capturing old Istanbul (Andrew Lesnie, The Lord of the Rings trilogy) is not gorgeous.
Home
2015 · Times Of India · Apr 2015
It is goofy, fun and has its heart in the right place. Home is meant squarely for kids, but that doesn't mean that accompanying adults will also not find this multi-coloured tale of the importance of friendship and familial bonds, heartwarming.
It Follows
2015 · Times Of India · Apr 2015
Mitchell's deliberately disjointed narrative and ambiguous timelines add to the surrealism. There's a chance you might, at night, catch yourself looking over your shoulder more than once after watching this.
Furious 7
2015 · Times Of India · Apr 2015
Furious 7 has a humane angle. The touching tribute to Walker puts the entire series into perspective and will make many eyes teary. The film's flaws suddenly vanish when you realise that if there is another film in this series, it just wouldn't be the same. RIP Paul.
The Gunman
2015 · Times Of India · Mar 2015
On the plus side, the fight scenes are unsparing, offering gore galore in graphic detail. Therefore, you'll only want to see this is if the sound of gunfire is music to your ears.
Run All Night
2015 · Times Of India · Mar 2015
We've seen Neeson play a tough-as-nails retired cop/hitman/special forces person who rescues various members of his family/public, who also finds his own redemption in the process, for a while now. But somehow, he manages to rock this role every single time, giving action heroes half his age a run for their money. It's like he's perfected it down to an art. Albeit an ageing ass-kicker, the Irishman clearly still has what it takes.
Insurgent
2015 · Times Of India · Mar 2015
...the only reasons to watch Insurgent are the very few decent performances and of course, the flashy special effects.
Chappie
2015 · Times Of India · Mar 2015
As a movie, Chappie is slightly bonkers (Jackman in cargo shorts, humans babying a robot, Copley's voice intonations for his character, etc), but delightfully so.
Focus
2015 · Times Of India · Mar 2015
Benefited by a witty script that keeps things playful, Focus is as slick a conman flick as any.
Against the Sun
2015 · Times Of India · Mar 2015
It is quite a challenge to keep a film that only involves three men, a raft and the open ocean (apart from a short prologue in their airplane) engaging and involving but to his credit, Falk manages to do so, and the three actors deliver solid performances while getting completely under the sun-blistered skin of the downed pilots' characters. Definitely an inspirational tale.
The Lazarus Effect
2015 · Times Of India · Mar 2015
Apart from the film's clear message - that if you play God, bad things will happen - Wilde definitely does look scary and indeed, she is the best thing about the movie.
Kingsman: The Secret Service
2015 · Times Of India · Feb 2015
Bulletproof brollies that fire bullets, dart spewing wristwatches and cigarette lighter grenades aside, there's a smooth balance of good humo u r, butt-kicking action and originality too. Kingsman: The Secret Service is a breath of fresh air in the spy movie genre.
Wild
2015 · Times Of India · Feb 2015
While the ending seems a bit hurried and underwhelming, it is Witherspoon who shines throughout. She is extremely convincing in this stripped-down role, whose character she appears to have completely and convincingly absorbed.
Whiplash
2015 · Times Of India · Feb 2015
Some might feel that the depiction of jazz here is too harsh. But then again, Fletcher's approach is about mastering the underpinning forms and structures before a player explores improvisational methods. The taut editing (Tom Cross) is outstanding and Simmons outdoes himself. When the thumping tom-toms, trombones and tympani fall silent, what you are also left with is a career-topping performance (thus far, at least!) from Miles Teller.
Mr. Turner
2015 · Times Of India · Feb 2015
Timothy Spall's depiction of Turner is in a word, earthy. The rotund artist's vocabulary is frequently punctuated by a string of porcine grunts and growls, all delivered by this scowling, jowly and not very jolly man.
Jupiter Ascending
2015 · Times Of India · Feb 2015
he Jupiter-Caine love story angle falls flat but it is Redmayne's deliciously evil, ruthless Balem who you actually want to see more of. Thankfully though, there is enough originality in here to please hardcore sci-fi fans.
Foxcatcher
2015 · Times Of India · Jan 2015
Foxcatcher is aided by a powerful script (Max Frye and Dan Futterman) and is based on a true story. The tale is no doubt an unsettling one... and yet, you'll not want to miss a second.
Seventh Son
2015 · Times Of India · Jan 2015
To be fair, it's apparent that the most effort has gone into the visual effects and the battles, which are the two redeeming factors about this film.
Mortdecai
2015 · Times Of India · Jan 2015
The film is paced well but unfortunately, a lot of the jokes fall flat. The film simmers but never really sizzles, despite moments of potential.
The Imitation Game
2015 · Times Of India · Jan 2015
Joan's warmth and intellect both complements and is a counterfoil to Turing's personality. While his sexuality did cause him problems in his native England, this is not a tale of tragedy but rather, one of triumph. And as Turing was told as a child: "Sometimes, it is the people whom no one imagines anything of who do the things that no one can imagine." An affecting tale of an extraordinary human being.
Paddington
2015 · Times Of India · Jan 2015
The seamless blending of animation with live action is the most striking point in the film. Apart from gently delivering the message about the importance of belonging, the jaunty film score also keeps things moving along rather nicely. Fun family viewing.
Big Eyes
2015 · Times Of India · Jan 2015
Adams' Margaret is yielding at first but gradually, her righteous indignation takes over. Waltz plays the consummate scoundrel, a wolf in sheep's clothing, with ease. The film is largely compelling and touches upon many aspects about the dynamics of a couple's love, along with the lengths and limits of tolerance one can have for the other.
Taken 3
2015 · Times Of India · Jan 2015
What works greatly to the movie's credit is the pacing (never a dull moment here!) and that sense of 'What's going to happen next?' All in all, a suitable swansong for the franchise.
Unbroken
2015 · Times Of India · Jan 2015
...apart from an engaging screenplay (Coen Brothers), cinematographer Roger Deakins's frames are vivid and powerful and Alexandre Desplat's score augments at optimal moments but thankfully, never overwhelms. O'Connell and Ishihara bring a stunning sense of realism to their roles, which is a great reason why you'll want to watch this movie.
The Woman in Black 2: Angel of Death
2015 · Times Of India · Jan 2015
The stylishness and eerie visual sophistication creates an often unsettling, almost surreal vibe that emphasizes how disconnected they all are from the rest of the world. And the very grin-and-bear-it style Brit stiff upper lip that they try to maintain (Eve and Jean even have time for a spot of tea in the kitchen as they try to figure out what's going on) adds to the sense of surrealism. Overall, the movie doesn't rewrite the book of shock (despite the jump scares), but what you get is a fast-paced scare flick with an ending that could have been creepier.
Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb
2014 · Times Of India · Dec 2014
This fairly entertaining kiddie comedy is full of funny little asides and exchanges that keep the pace going. And of special note is Robin Williams' heartwarming performance, tinged with the kind of jocularity and poignancy that only he could pull off. Fun viewing for the holidays.
Exodus: Gods and Kings
2014 · Times Of India · Dec 2014
Exodus: Gods and Kings is 'spectacle' with a capital 'S' and in more ways than one, definitely epic.
This Is Where I Leave You
2014 · Times Of India · Dec 2014
In short, almost everything that can go wonky with a family goes wonky and the seams that hold them together are severely tested. Given the talented star cast, the film could have tapped more of an emotional vein, which is the essence of the story - the interplay of complex emotions in a family awkwardly lumped together for seven days. Sometimes sappy and sometimes over-the-top, it is mostly enjoyable.
Zed Plus
2014 · Times Of India · Nov 2014
The subject matter could have been interesting but it is mired in tedious, very boring, rural and regional cliches that audiences have already seen, so many times.
Penguins of Madagascar
2014 · Times Of India · Nov 2014
The pace is brisk - frenzied, even - the animation top-notch and the script is full of witticisms, puns ("Drew, Barry - more power!" Or "Nicolas, Cage - the penguins!") and there are jokes aplenty for the kiddies as well as belly-busters for the grown-ups. And of course, the penguins are simply adorable.
Horrible Bosses 2
2014 · Times Of India · Nov 2014
The jokes in the film are largely hit-or-miss. The humour is definitely of the polarising (racial jokes, etc.) variety - you'll either find it highly amusing or in bad taste. Aniston seems like an unlikely choice for the role of a determinedly oversexed dentist dealing with sex addiction, but she adds her own brand of charm to it. All in all, a decent collection of laughs.
The Equalizer
2014 · Times Of India · Nov 2014
The movie's climax in is a bit drawn out but all said and done, Washington and Csokas are thoroughly convincing and if you're an action junkie, you'll surely get your money's worth.
Dumb and Dumber To
2014 · Times Of India · Nov 2014
Save some potty jokes, the plot is essentially a vehicle for a bunch of sight gags and situational comedy all strung together. Carrey is a natural - he often sounds like he's ad-libbing and Turner's dour one-liners delivered in her nicotine-roasted voice is genuinely funny. The jokes are definitely 'dumb' (and therefore, it works in this film's context), but with a movie title that literally proclaims the same out loud, what can you expect?
Beauty and the Beast
2014 · Times Of India · Nov 2014
...the visuals are elaborate and that makes it watchable. However, there's a lot more that Gans could have done with this revered and traditional fairytale.
John Wick
2014 · Times Of India · Nov 2014
There is not a wasted second in Wick's relentless and efficient pursuit of his wrongdoers. This revenge film looks slick, stylish and despite its camp story line, keeps you engrossed throughout with a strong impact. John Wick is a raucous romp of a movie and offers you no-holds-barred action all the way.
Big Hero 6
2014 · Times Of India · Nov 2014
Definitely a delightful film with its heart in the right place.
Interstellar
2014 · Times Of India · Nov 2014
The terminologies and mathematical formulae might confound some, but you will nonetheless be dazzled. Subtexts abound: the individual vs. the good of mankind, love's overarching influence over time and space and so on.
Gone Girl
2014 · Times Of India · Oct 2014
David Fincher and screenwriter Gillian Flynn (on whose novel the movie is based) have hit the bulls-eye.
Ouija
2014 · Times Of India · Oct 2014
For a movie that is about the perils of summoning sinister specters, the film itself could have been scarier.
Fury
2014 · Times Of India · Oct 2014
Fury is unflinching in its depiction of war from the get-go to the point of being unsettling. As unrelenting as the iron tracks of a tank crushing everything in its path, it is indeed a juggernaut of action - tank against tank and tank against artillery. It is also surprisingly sophisticated in terms of the drama and interplay between all of the characters. Largely devoid of jingoism, not since Saving Private Ryan has there been a World War II film that looks so convincingly 'real'.
The Judge
2014 · Times Of India · Oct 2014
The Judge is a great example of meticulously-crafted character portrayals and a film that carefully builds up each of the main characters over the course of its duration.
Dracula Untold
2014 · Times Of India · Oct 2014
...this is essentially Evans's vehicle. His version of Dracula is action-oriented rather than horrifying and creepy. And keeping that in mind, he manages, in most parts, to get his teeth into the substance of Count Dracula's legend convincingly enough.
What If
2014 · Times Of India · Oct 2014
Delightful but somewhat un-memorable, the energy of the film lies in the push-pull conflict between the two protagonists handled deftly by Radcliffe and Kazan - the whole question of love that cannot be...and hoping against all odds that it can.
Left Behind
2014 · Times Of India · Oct 2014
The basic premise of the film could have made for an engaging and far-out watch. The very concept of the Rapture could have been depicted with power and mystery, but instead the opposite is achieved in a film that just looks slapdash.
Annabelle
2014 · Times Of India · Oct 2014
Annabelle alights on most horror tropes but comes across as a jack of all trades, but a master of none. Still, it will give you your money's worth, while not really serving you anything too memorable (or scary) as some of the other, more sinister horror films we've seen in the last few years.
Two Night Stand
2014 · Times Of India · Sep 2014
While the plot is simple enough, this is, in essence, a pretty candid and contemporary take on young love, with its many colourful details.colourful details.
Dolphin Tale 2
2014 · Times Of India · Sep 2014
Featuring a few beautiful scenes that will probably warm the heart of the most hardened cynic, Dolphin Tale 2 makes for some wholesome family fare.
A Walk Among the Tombstones
2014 · Times Of India · Sep 2014
... the movie is classic Liam Neeson and like any good thriller, keeps you guessing till the end.
The Prince
2014 · Times Of India · Sep 2014
The greatest effort seems to have gone into getting the look of the fight scenes correctly in an otherwise bland film.
If I Stay
2014 · Times Of India · Sep 2014
Moretz manages to convey some of the delicate and bittersweet shades of love and romance with a maturity that prevents the movie from becoming a sob-fest. Therefore, the story moves at a brisk pace.
Life of Crime
2014 · Times Of India · Sep 2014
The film stops short of being something truly memorable but has just the right amount of witty turns, deft plot twists, funny situations and interesting characters.
Sin City: A Dame to Kill For
2014 · Times Of India · Sep 2014
With its simple dialogues and also because it is in essence a gorgeous-looking tableaux, enjoy this slick slice of cinema more for its visuals rather than anything else.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
2014 · Times Of India · Aug 2014
Thin plot aside, *TMNT* is peppered with just enough humour and maintains a strident pace throughout.
The November Man
2014 · Times Of India · Aug 2014
The sometimes-cluttered plot aside, this slickly-shot film manages to pass muster. A big reason why you might want to see this film is because Pierce Brosnan is in it. And indeed, it is on his able shoulders that this movie rests.
The Expendables 3
2014 · Times Of India · Aug 2014
While an ensemble cast is indeed impressive, you might feel that so much more could have been done with the story in terms of excitement. Stallone and Arnie fans might also feel a bit shortchanged regarding how much screen time their two favourite characters have got. While the action is indeed high gear, the gore (evidenced in the previous film) is turned down a notch. Nonetheless, it does serve up a decent chunk of old-school action.
The Giver
2014 · Times Of India · Aug 2014
Despite the impressive cast (Taylor Swift has a cameo), performances are uneven. Bridges and Streep stand out but the others are somewhat unconvincing. Conceptually, there are also bits reminiscent of *The Matrix* some Orwellian Big Brother ideology and dashes of *Divergent* in an overall attempt to convey the film's core message - do we sacrifice pain and pleasure in the quest to attain a 'perfect' existence?
Guardians of the Galaxy
2014 · Times Of India · Aug 2014
Despite these chinks, the charming performances, strange characters (don't miss Del Toro as The Collector), spaceships and of course, the 70s soundtrack (a highlight by itself) make this one a heck of an intergalactic romp.
Hercules
2014 · Times Of India · Aug 2014
When Johnson isn't punching and slashing, he conveys the softer emotions rather well. His pals though, whether by design or not, don't leave an impact. Fiennes' Eurystheus deserved more screen time. The climax could've been better and while the battles scenes aren't as epic as *Gladiator*, the film, along with its sprinkling of tongue-in-cheek lines, makes for a fun watch.
22 Jump Street
2014 · Times Of India · Aug 2014
What's interesting is that directors Lord and Miller never lose sight about what they're serving up their audience - a simple and enjoyable comedy based on an old TV show (*21 Jump Street* that ran from 1987 to 1991). Here, all the veiled jokes as well as the blatant gags (Hill and Michael Bacall co-write) might even warrant a second viewing. Go for a load of laughs and stay for the end credits.
Begin Again
2014 · Times Of India · Jul 2014
Decidedly different from super-budget, superhero fare, this one is sometimes sappy but mostly engaging and definitely driven by music.
Planes: Fire & Rescue
2014 · Times Of India · Jul 2014
While the film is pretty to look at (the rendering of forest fires are pretty realistic), it's not in the same league as a *Frozen*, *Shrek* or *Toy Story.* While the script is full of obvious and easy aircraft metaphors which are funny, it lacks the kind of witticisms and wisecracks that elevate other contemporary animated films so that they can be enjoyed by a much wider audience.
Transformers: Age of Extinction
2014 · Times Of India · Jun 2014
Be it fiery photogenic explosions, smashing buildings, mega monster battles and more, there is no doubt that action rules this film.
Chef
2014 · Times Of India · Jun 2014
Pleasing yet somewhat predictable, this film marks a sharp departure from Favreau's various blockbuster (*Iron Man*) films into something far simpler. Johansson, however, is somewhat under-used but on the whole, the story is paced nicely. With food remaining the biggest star of this show, the side dishes also include some family-bonding as well. And the result is a serving of something refreshingly original.
Edge of Tomorrow
2014 · Times Of India · Jun 2014
Writer Hiroshi Sakurazaka's story has solid sci-fi credentials and Cruise proves that he still has the chops to pull off mega action movies. Edge of Tomorrow is one of his most compelling and nuanced performances in this genre.
Maleficent
2014 · Times Of India · May 2014
Maleficent is pretty much Angelina Jolie's vehicle all the way, because looking at how she fits this role down to the letter, it's hard to imagine anyone else inhabiting the character of a good person-turned-evil as well as she does in this film. Fanning imbues her character with a freshness that balances off nicely against Maleficient's demeanour. All in all, an imaginative take on the old classic.
Blended
2014 · Times Of India · May 2014
In their unintentional quest for love, Jim and Lauren's lives and dealing with loss, single parenthood and divorce, offers an interesting and unintentional insight into suburban middle class America. Sandler is firmly in his comfort zone and Barrymore is the cute person she is in most of her films. The movie is no doubt funny, but the genuinely good jokes are just by the handful.
The Raid 2
2014 · Times Of India · May 2014
If you enjoy savage, on-screen action that is unabashedly over-the-top and even sometimes borders on pastiche with all the gangster film tropes, don't hesitate to go watch this.
X-Men: Days of Future Past
2014 · May 2014
Though there's no shortage of fantastic special effects, the film isn't in the least bit overbearing. While it assumes viewer familiarity with all the characters, *Days of Future Past* does manage the improbable task of combining almost everything that we love about the X-Men series, in one place.
Fading Gigolo
2014 · May 2014
Fioravante and Avigal's equation transcends sexuality and steps into more tender territory. The film has plenty of clever humour underscored by a jazzy score throughout. Vergara oozes sex while Sharon Stone is a veteran vixen. On the flip side, Gigolo is pure Woody Allen formula and provides the right amount of gags to keep this sex comedy afloat.
Godzilla
2014 · May 2014
Those who have seen previous avatars of this scaly beast will immediately reconnect with that sense of speechlessness and rapt awe they felt when they saw Godzilla in their childhood. Godzilla's roar is not for the faint-hearted. This is a fantastic homage to monster movies of yore and is bound to go down as a modern classic. Go Godzilla!
Million Dollar Arm
2014 · May 2014
Sure, there are all the usual cliches you'd expect from a movie that sees India through the Occidental lens. You have claustrophobically crowded streets, chaotic honking and food that gives Bernstein the runs. But these cliches are handled in such a deft manner by Gillespie as to make the overall package quite heartwarming.
The Amazing Spider-Man 2
2014 · May 2014
The action sequences are breathtaking and despite the running time, the film doesn't drag. Garfield and Stone, in the scenes where they are together, have a palpable chemistry. This Spider-Man serves up both pathos and power.
Transcendence
2014 · Apr 2014
The film is essentially a far-fetched, sometimes muddled, cautionary tale about mankind being taken over by the machines that they themselves have created, albeit with the best of intentions.
Divergent
2014 · Apr 2014
At face value, Divergent comes across as a film that doesn't push any boundaries whatsoever. But at the heart of this dystopian tale awash in grays and browns is a lesson about finding one's identity and being at peace with oneself.
Rio 2
2014 · Apr 2014
Colourful and well-paced except for a cloyingly sweet song or two, the kids will enjoy this one.
Captain America: The Winter Soldier
2014 · Apr 2014
While Romanoff adds some playful sex appeal, Captain America is a lot more aggressive in this outing as he takes on the Winter Soldier (Stan) and increasingly uses his shield as an offensive weapon. Rogers might not have Batman's toys, Tony Stark's wisecracks or Superman's strength, but he is the most 'human'. This ranks among the finest in the super-hero genre.
Noah
2014 · Mar 2014
Although Aronofsky has dipped liberally into the well of fantasy in his recreation of Noah's tale, he does it in a manner that serves up a quasi-modern story laced generously with allegory and backed by some solid, no-nonsense performances. He does not go overboard on religious subject matter and instead, chooses to give the movie a more human, moralistic direction. There's even an interesting montage describing the origin of the universe. All in all, a lush visual spectacle told on a fittingly grand scale.
Sabotage
2014 · Mar 2014
Schwarzenegger fans will enjoy this action fest, as this is undoubtedly his vehicle all the way.
Looper
2012 · Mar 2014
There are science fiction films that deal with the subject of time travel and then there is Looper, which comes across as refreshingly original as well as entertaining, with a story full of interesting twists. Notwithstanding the flash and slick visuals, director Rian Johnson always keeps the storyline to the fore. Events are explained in a fairly simple manner as the plot smoothly unfolds. The film will leave you satisfied and entertained after one watch. And there's a pretty good chance you'd want to watch it again.
Muppets Most Wanted
2014 · Times Of India · Mar 2014
There are cameos aplenty in this fun film. People as unlikely as Tom Hiddleston and Ray Liotta (both gulag inmates) to some hip names in Hip Hop (Combs) and R&B (Usher) put in appeareances. And the song sequences are both fun and wacky - two words that sum up this film.
Need for Speed
2014 · Times Of India · Mar 2014
Although light on plot and performances, the film delivers exactly what it promises. Devoid of CGI, the races you see are real and the stunts, really well done. Apart from Paul's promising performance, it's the supercharged cars that tear up the asphalt and steal the show in this one.
Battle of the Damned
2014 · Times Of India · Mar 2014
The film is about as literal as it gets, which is Dolph Lundgren shooting things, zombies and robots along with a lot of randomness.
3 Days to Kill
2014 · Times Of India · Mar 2014
Lighthearted while managing to mix a torture scene with a recipe for spaghetti sauce, the film's myriad elements come together with a deft touch, without losing the plot.
300: Rise of an Empire
2014 · Times Of India · Mar 2014
The film itself looks fantastic, awash in a red-sepia tone that dominates everything. Although you will have seen many action films set during a point of time in history (this one's set in 480 BC), there is plenty in here to keep your attention from start to finish.
August: Osage County
2014 · Times Of India · Mar 2014
The film is full of angry exchanges and confrontations, mostly between the drugged-up Violet and Barbara, who gives as good as she gets. At regular intervals, various crazy secrets of the family emerge. Streep stands out as the unbalanced matriarch. Roberts too is someone to watch out for. In fact, there's not one weak link in the portrayals of this train-wreck of a family.
Nebraska
2014 · Times Of India · Feb 2014
Black-and-white with plenty of shades of grey,* Nebraska* is a road trip film like no other.
Non-Stop
2014 · Times Of India · Feb 2014
If there's a film that is pretty much true to its name, then this one is it. Another variation on the classic theme of a plane hijack, the movie is relentless with not a wasted second.
The Monuments Men
2014 · Times Of India · Feb 2014
The film itself looks terrific, thanks to cinematographer Phedon Papamichael's mostly German locations and a misty, retro-looking palette. Unfortunately, the multiple scenarios make the story-telling a bit unbalanced at times. What overcomes this weakness is the fact that the film makes a profound point in a subtle way - that the Fuhrer's ambitions if left unchecked would have been world-altering, in the most unsettling of ways.
Pompeii
2014 · Times Of India · Feb 2014
The love story itself is forgettable and cheesy. But that is only incidental compared to what you can watch this movie for - its fight scenes and cataclysmic climax, both produced and recreated in good detail.
The Lego Movie
2014 · Times Of India · Feb 2014
There's much to enjoy in this film for all age groups - everything from the pop culture references, the multitudes of characters, light-hearted sarcasm and above all, the fantastic script. Novel, wild, irreverent and inventive, this movie is a multicoloured marvel.
Lone Survivor
2014 · Times Of India · Feb 2014
The film never once ventures into partisanship or jingoism. The fact that war really is hell is always kept front and centre throughout. Tobia Schliesser's cinematography is brilliant. This one's an adrenaline- packed ride all the way.
Saving Mr. Banks
2014 · Times Of India · Feb 2014
When it comes to creating a land of fantasy, fun and mirth for children, there wasn't much that Walt Disney couldn't do. So, when his daughters implore him to fulfill their wish and make a movie out of their favourite book, how could he refuse? It's a promise that would take him two decades to keep. Heartwarming without being soppy, this film makes for a thoroughly enjoyable watch.
The Legend of Hercules
2014 · Times Of India · Jan 2014
For a movie with such an interesting subject, this one unfortunately doesn't make the grade.
Carrie
2014 · Times Of India · Jan 2014
While Carrie begins eerily enough, there is a turning point where the screenplay abandons psychological horror of the kind that Shutter or The Conjuring dish out, and goes for full-gear gore instead. It then becomes more graphic and visceral rather than creepy.
Grudge Match
2014 · Times Of India · Jan 2014
The training sequences are sluggish and intentionally funny and indeed much of the film's humour plays off on their respective ages. But that's all secondary to the fact that these two once played the legendary characters Rocky Balboa and Jake LaMotta. These veterans still pack in their punches for sure.
Inside Llewyn Davis
2014 · Times Of India · Jan 2014
Generously laced with dark humour and part-melancholic, Inside Llewyn Davis is full of clever Coen-isms and the film's soundtrack too is wonderful. This one makes for some compelling viewing.
47 Ronin
2014 · Times Of India · Jan 2014
The movie mixes many elements, but the overall tapestry looks good. An American-accented Kai amongst hardcore Japanese warriors is not jarring.
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty
2014 · Times Of India · Jan 2014
The Icelandic landscapes look picture-postcard perfect and the varied scenery, as he crisscrosses the globe, will take your breath away.
Walking with Dinosaurs
2013 · Times Of India · Dec 2013
...the biggest letdown is the wafer-thin plot and some silly dialogues marring an otherwise decent story. Partly based on the BBC's 1999 TV documentary mini-series bearing the same name, the only thing that works best for this film is the successful melding of CGI dinosaurs in live-action landscape settings.
Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2
2013 · Dec 2013
While its predecessor had more emotional impact, this second helping of Cloudy... is more adventurous and fun, while losing precious little of the overall charm of the characters and location. With plenty of 'tasty' surprises, the umpteen food references make it as much a gustatory delight as it is uplifting.
Jackpot
2013 · Times Of India · Dec 2013
Makarand Deshpande's kooky cop character is genuinely funny, but corny lines aside, one of Jackpot's few redeeming factors here is that it moves along quickly.
The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug
2013 · Times Of India · Dec 2013
The film is supremely accessible and enjoyable, even if you who haven't read Tolkien. And surprisingly enough, to keep things from getting heavy, there are more than a few laugh-aloud moments courtesy the Dwarves. This one's a packed-to-the-gills entertainer from start to finish.
Oldboy
2013 · Times Of India · Dec 2013
The film has graphic violence and perversion, but there is no take-away. It leaves you trying to nail down what the point to this remake really was.
Delivery Man
2013 · Times Of India · Nov 2013
Based on 2011's movie, Starbuck, this is Vaughn's vehicle all the way. All said and done, the movie has its heart in the right place.
Last Vegas
2013 · Times Of India · Nov 2013
Overall, the feel of the movie is relaxed and Turteltaub does a good job of breaking the mould of onscreen senior citizen stereotypes. This Old Boy's Club still knows how to party!
Thor: The Dark World
2013 · Times Of India · Nov 2013
This movie is also about sibling rivalry as well as a long-distance love story with an intergalactic twist. Don't miss this one.
Ender's Game
2013 · Times Of India · Oct 2013
Digging a bit deeper, another question is posed - that if you were given the choice to kill someone who you know would return to kill you and your friends one day, would you go ahead and get them before they got you? You may not like this film if you don't enjoy sci-fi movies set in space.
Amour
2013 · Times Of India · Oct 2013
This movie has some heartbreaking moments and is moving, but on the lighter side, it is also somehow reassuring that we are never alone. Amour treats the subject of love in a manner that has seldom before been visited on screen.
The Fifth Estate
2013 · Oct 2013
Cumberbatch's Assange is emotionless, cold and sometimes a bit sinister. For someone who insists on global transparency, his own personality is paradoxically as impervious as a cold steel wall. You wonder what actually is going on inside his head. A movie about Assange and WikiLeaks is bound to be tough to tackle and while it has a few things going for it, Condon could have scored better if he chose to focus deeper on Assange's admittedly complex and mysterious psyche.
Escape Plan
2013 · Times Of India · Oct 2013
he action is routine but the way they plan the escape is interesting and inspired. These guys may be old, but they sure know their chops and can still deal the dice, old-school style.
About Time
2013 · Times Of India · Oct 2013
Ultimately, the message is simple and visceral enough to have crossover appeal. Give it a shot if romantic comedies float your boat.
Runner, Runner
2013 · Times Of India · Oct 2013
A promising plot like this could have offered you a full course, yet what you're served is diet fare at best.
Prisoners
2013 · Times Of India · Sep 2013
A film with many emotional components, the visceral panic, desperation and helplessness any parent would feel when their children are abducted, forms its bedrock. Each watershed point takes its own time to build. This ensures that you will want to pay attention to the details that makes Prisoners so enjoyable.
Gambit
2013 · Times Of India · Sep 2013
This is a fairly standard heist comedy, but is loaded with just enough silly humour and charm to make it a pleasant ride.
2 Guns
2013 · Times Of India · Sep 2013
What sets this film apart from standard buddy-cop fare is that the enemy is in their midst and not some larger-than-life despot demanding a ransom the size of a small country's GDP.
Grown Ups 2
2013 · Times Of India · Sep 2013
The only thought that this film might provoke is to make you wonder what Sandler and gang were thinking when they made this.
Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters
2013 · Times Of India · Aug 2013
The best thing about this predictable film is undoubtedly the special effects. For want of anything better, Sea of Monsters is a mishmash of various similar films in this genre and a passable potpourri of Greek mythology retold with a contemporary veneer.
The Frozen Ground
2013 · Times Of India · Aug 2013
The film does navigate through familiar serial killer-thriller checkpoints but the screenplay does pack in some clever tricks. Scott Walker does not sensationalize Cusack's Hansen and Cage thankfully reins in his histrionics.
Kick-Ass 2
2013 · Times Of India · Aug 2013
Politically incorrect dialogues aside, Kick-Ass 2 is actually quite a fun ride. Beneath the deliberately ridiculous costumes and mock-serious dialogues lies a sea of brutality and gore gleefully topped off with the kind of language that would make a sailor blush.
R.I.P.D.
2013 · Times Of India · Aug 2013
By and large, grossly underwhelming for a movie that could have delivered so much more.
The Wolverine
2013 · Times Of India · Aug 2013
There are superhero movies with better gags and then there are superhero films with more effects. Eschewing any of those in excess, what this film also offers is soul, pathos and a pretty good look at the multifaceted character that is The Wolverine.
Zambezia
2012 · Times Of India · Aug 2013
The plot of this South African film is needlessly complicated and the dialogues, too many. The surfeit of characters clutters the film and makes the pace plod at times, despite the relatively short running time. The animations look quite dull and not smooth enough, like a dated video game. This one's fairly ho-hum.
The Smurfs 2
2013 · Times Of India · Aug 2013
All said and done however, while there is nothing disagreeable about this movie, there's nothing very remarkable about it either.
Tara
2013 · Times Of India · Jul 2013
Films are conceived with an idea. In this case, it should probably have been left as one because its execution leaves much to be desired.
Turbo
2013 · Jul 2013
Although this movie is no Toy Story or Shrek, it is nicely paced, energetic and entertaining enough in 3D. And as an underdog story, its message is positive and simple enough - one should never give up one one's dreams and aspirations in life, no matter what the odds.
Pacific Rim
2013 · Times Of India · Jul 2013
Stripped down, this movie is essentially about giant robots and giant sea monsters bashing each other up.
Man of Steel
2013 · Times Of India · Jun 2013
This is a Superman film for today's audience. A hugely impressive and entertaining story of arguably the most powerful character in the superhero pantheon (and also one of the biggest pop culture icons), it's clear that the Man of Steel is here to stay.
After Earth
2013 · Jun 2013
There are menacing moments and the editing is taut but this stays in cliche territory; it's nothing you haven't seen before. The film suffers from a lack of ambition. After Earth aims for interstellar overdrive but barely manages to take off.
Star Trek Into Darkness
2013 · Times Of India · May 2013
The film will grab you from the opening shot and not let go. Despite a running time of over two hours, you won't feel as though you've been watching for that long because there's not a wasted nanosecond.
Epic
2013 · Times Of India · May 2013
...the film is adequate. It's sometimes slapstick, sometimes emotional, and funny at times. All in all though, the ambitiously-titled Epic is in fact anything but epic.
Beehad - The Ravines
2013 · Times Of India · May 2013
Scenes are needlessly stretched and some situations, overly dramatised. The idea and intention behind this film was probably sound, but the execution falls far short of what this movie could actually have turned out to be.
Four Two Ka One
2013 · Times Of India · May 2013
This formulaic comedy of errors won't make you laugh out loud but it doesn't bore you either.
Listen... Amaya
2013 · Times Of India · Mar 2013
If you want to grab a fresh flavour, this one is worth a 'shot'.