TheReviewMonk
SM

Sneha May Francis

Emirates247·Masala

124Reviews
Rarely scored11 of 124 scored
2Publications

Senior Reporter at Emirates 24|7, Dubai Media Inc.

Badla

Badla

2019 · Masala · Mar 2019

And just like the Spanish version, Ghosh and writer Raj Vasant don't dilute the Bollywood version with song-and-dance and skip the INTERVAL altogether. At 125 minutes, 'Badla' is a thrilling watch. But, Ghosh can't take any credit for it.

6.0
TRM 6.2
Full review ↗
Gully Boy

Gully Boy

2019 · Masala · Feb 2019

A man sits silently, locked in the darkness of a car as the world outside blares and glitters under the glow of the night sky and fairy lights. It's a defining moment. One where the man is determined to fight the social dictums to swap his unglamorous life for a more celebrated one.  There are no words spoken. Yet, a lot is said. Therein lies the beauty of director Zoya Akhtar's work.

8.0
TRM 7.1
Full review ↗
Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi

Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi

2019 · Masala · Jan 2019

Despite wanting to know so much about Lakshmibai, the movie prefers to celebrate her unabashedly without ever throwing an insight into who she really was. So we are left googling for more information!

4.0
TRM 5.8
Full review ↗
Why Cheat India

Why Cheat India

2019 · Masala · Jan 2019

The movie shifts from one scam to another without much thought and relevance, presumably for shock-value. And it shows in its treatment.

3.0
TRM 4.7
Full review ↗
Uri: The Surgical Strike

Uri: The Surgical Strike

2019 · Masala · Jan 2019

Director Aditya Dhar manages to launch a striking attack in his debut. Armed with the sturdy Vicky Kaushal, he unveils gun battles, one after another. And you can't help but marvel at the precision with which the sound design and lights enhance the warfare.  No drama. No dialogues. Just the bullets peppering our screens and our emotions.

6.0
TRM 5.9
Full review ↗
Simmba

Simmba

2018 · Masala · Dec 2018

It's ironical, and highly unforgivable, that a movie that attempts to empower women, doesn't even give its female characters much to do, barring handing them token lines so their Simmba can play hero.

3.0
TRM 5.6
Full review ↗
Zero

Zero

2018 · Masala · Dec 2018

Shah Rukh Khan, Katrina Kaif and Anushka Sharma Simply Doesn't Work...

2.0
TRM 4.8
Full review ↗
Kedarnath

Kedarnath

2018 · Masala · Dec 2018

At over two hours of screen time, the drill turns tedious and tiresome, and sinks into a mushy mess in the end, never ever coming together as a wholesome movie.

5.0
TRM 5.0
Full review ↗
Thugs of Hindostan

Thugs of Hindostan

2018 · Masala · Nov 2018

Thugs of Hindostan is all fluff and no stuff. Had the filmmakers invested the money where it mattered this movie would've been something spectacular.

3.0
TRM 4.2
Full review ↗
Sanju

Sanju

2018 · Masala · Jun 2018

At 161 minutes of screen time, Hirani manages to give Sanju a massive 'jaddoo ki jappi', like no other, and one that will surely win over many hearts. But, does that validate the misgivings of a fallen star? I don't think so.

7.0
TRM 6.7
Full review ↗
Baaghi 2

Baaghi 2

2018 · Masala · Mar 2018

Baaghi 2 desperately hopes that slow-mo shots of the hero's abs and his stunts, set against blaring background scores, can uplift a dull narrative. Unfortunately, the audience today is far more discerning than that.

3.0
TRM 4.8
Full review ↗
Mohenjo Daro

Mohenjo Daro

2016 · Emirates247 · Aug 2016

When a filmmaker of Ashutosh Gowariker's repute decides to make a movie on Mohenjo Daro, the biggest settlement of Indus valley civilisation, you would expect him to be historically accurate yet retain his worth as a storyteller. However, his 'Mohenjo Daro' fails on both accounts.

Rustom

Rustom

2016 · Emirates247 · Aug 2016

The foundation of any credible courtroom drama lies in its writing, which Vipul offers to 'Rustom', but there are those rare moments of heightened theatrics, which creep in and damage 'Rustom'. Yet, it deserves credit for pitching a story on a case that historically altered the Indian judiciary system.

Udta Punjab

Udta Punjab

2016 · Emirates247 · Jun 2016

Despite the minor flaws, 'Udta Punjab' is a movie deserving your time. It explores the highs and the lows with equal flourish.

Housefull 3

Housefull 3

2016 · Emirates247 · Jun 2016

It's a miracle, we walked out, unharmed. But, we wouldn't dare to ask you to take such a risk. Stay away, you'll thank us later. Trust us.

Azhar

Azhar

2016 · Emirates247 · May 2016

Sports drama 'Chak De India' had brilliantly captured the politics of hockey on-field and off it, unfortunately 'Azhar' refrains from doing either. It remains, but sadly a story of a fallen hero, "fixed" Bollywood style.

Fan

Fan

2016 · Emirates247 · Apr 2016

It's an intriguing journey that Manish Sharma weaves, but one that, unfortunately, doesn't end well.

Ki and Ka

Ki and Ka

2016 · Emirates247 · Mar 2016

Balki, who had earlier worked magic with 'Cheeni Kum', creates a messy love story in 'Ki and Ka'. Leave it untouched, and you will not regret it.

Jai Gangaajal

Jai Gangaajal

2016 · Emirates247 · Mar 2016

Jha, who had first made a hard-hitting action drama 'Gangaajal' in 2003, fails to inject any real meaning into his second part. Another classic example of when a sequel fails to match up to its original.

Neerja

Neerja

2016 · Emirates247 · Feb 2016

'Neerja' is a compelling watch. And, her's is a story that deserves to be celebrated.

Fitoor

Fitoor

2016 · Emirates247 · Feb 2016

'Fitoor' is a staggeringly beautiful canvas, but nothing else.

Ghayal Once Again

Ghayal Once Again

2016 · Emirates247 · Feb 2016

... is a classic case of inferior storytelling, amateur performances and mediocre special effects. A movie best left untouched.

Saala Khadoos

Saala Khadoos

2016 · Emirates247 · Jan 2016

Despite the flaws, it's the performances that redeem the movie. R Madhavan's imposing as the bulky coach, who, despite his eccentricities and downfalls, never lets his passion die. He's matched brilliantly by Ritika Singh, who captures Madhi's fractured world with striking strokes. However, Adi and Madhi never emerge heroes, and that's a failing on the writing. While 'Saala Khadoos' has some powerful moments, it's not a knockout!

Chalk N Duster

Chalk N Duster

2016 · Emirates247 · Jan 2016

Yes, 'Chalk N Duster' isn't magical or earnest like Aamir's works, or delightful like 'Rockford', or 'Stanley Ke Dabba'. It slips into the category that has Shahid Kapoor's 'Paathshaala'.

Wazir

Wazir

2016 · Emirates247 · Jan 2016

Writers Vidhu Vinod Chopra and Abhijat Joshi might have cracked an interesting storyline, originally planned in English as 'The Fifth Move' in 2003, but over the years its lost its sheen. And that's a shame, really.

Dilwale

Dilwale

2015 · Emirates247 · Dec 2015

It's a good thing Rohit hands us a disclaimer about his style of moviemaking, allowing the non-fans to step away, but for the others, it would be crucial to carry along earplugs because you just can't do...

Bajirao Mastani

Bajirao Mastani

2015 · Emirates247 · Dec 2015

While Bajirao and Mastani's love story is fascinating, no doubt, directing more of the screenplay to his military accomplishments could've turned it into a far more credible watch. For now, it's a pretty picture that stops short of being great cinema.

Tamasha

Tamasha

2015 · Emirates247 · Nov 2015

While his non-linear narrative template might appear rather indulgent, and possibly punctures the pulse of the movie, he manages to salvage it beautifully. A tighter edit would've gone a long way in uplifting the film, but that's a flaw we are willing to overlook because he doesn't adulterate his drama with quintessential Bollywood tricks, and plays it by his rules.

Shaandaar

Shaandaar

2015 · Emirates247 · Oct 2015

While the theme evidently lacks novelty, it was intriguing to see how director Vikas Bahl, who showcased glimpses of wedding fun in his spectacular 'Queen', pitched his second innings on a desi destination wedding.

Jazbaa

Jazbaa

2015 · Emirates247 · Oct 2015

Despite landing a great idea, 'Jazbaa' remains a shallow watch, where Gupta indulges his South Korean fetish but never challenges himself or his characters to create a world that could've been menacingly gripping.

Singh Is Bling

Singh Is Bling

2015 · Emirates247 · Oct 2015

'Singh is Bling' is a movie that tries too hard to impress, but never does. It's the kind of movie that gets sucked in its own idiosyncrasies but fails to involve, let alone tickle, its audience. It's the kind of movie where fat women are mocked at, while the thin girls are taught peculiar lessons on women's empowerment. It's the kind of movie where song and dance are key, the jokes incidental, and the acting abysmal.

Talvar

Talvar

2015 · Emirates247 · Oct 2015

As the movie draws to an end, and you find your own truth, you will be left haunted by the images of a giddy teenager flashing on your screen...

Katti Batti

Katti Batti

2015 · Emirates247 · Sep 2015

Kangana Ranaut and Imran Khan's 'Katti Batti' isn't fun...Nikhil Advani's rom-com is inspired by Hollywood tales...

Hero

Hero

2015 · Emirates247 · Sep 2015

Advani's 'Hero' ends up a lengthy, unimaginative remake. Stay away, if you prefer movies that are easy on our senses.

Welcome Back

Welcome Back

2015 · Emirates247 · Sep 2015

While the laughs were limited, it was indeed delightful to see Dubai shine and shimmer. This could possibly be one of its few highlights. Movies like 'Welcome Back' or its predecessor 'Welcome' are best left untouched. It's madness that could entertain you if you are wired weirdly.

Brothers

Brothers

2015 · Emirates247 · Aug 2015

The spectacular scenes are restricted to the fighting ring. But, unlike Rocky Balboa's bloody boxing adventures, David and Monty's martial arts doesn't inspire or demand applause.

Drishyam

Drishyam

2015 · Emirates247 · Jul 2015

'Drishyam' picks up momentum towards the second-half, so if you are willing to indulge the filmmaker, you wouldn't be disappointed.

Guddu Rangeela

Guddu Rangeela

2015 · Emirates247 · Jul 2015

...could've turned into something so much more, but it doesn't. And that's a pity.

ABCD 2

ABCD 2

2015 · Emirates247 · Jun 2015

Had Remo focused on the dance, and cut out the rest of the mush, this would've been a great watch.

Dil Dhadakne Do

Dil Dhadakne Do

2015 · Emirates247 · Jun 2015

Apart from the spectacular performances and stunning locations 'Dil Dhadakne Do' has its moments of fun, laughter, drama, tears and romance. So go on, plunge in. Zoya Akhtar's movie is a delightful watch.

Welcome to Karachi

Welcome to Karachi

2015 · Emirates247 · May 2015

A movie must outdo its trailer. That's what we hope for, but unfortunately Bollywood lures us into theatres with big promises and never keeps it. 'Welcome 2 Karachi' slips into that disappointing category. Last year, a small-budget movie 'Filmistaan' gave Indo-Pak border politics a clever, comical twist, sadly, 'Welcome 2 Karachi' never matches up.

Bombay Velvet

Bombay Velvet

2015 · Emirates247 · May 2015

Despite the build-up and grandeur, Kashyap's 'Bombay Velvet' falls short of being his masterpiece.

Piku

Piku

2015 · Emirates247 · May 2015

It's only after stepping into Piku's quirky world that we witness the brilliance of Shoojit's craftsmanship. How he uses bowel movements to weave together a touching tale about family love, without ever employing cheap thrills or melodrama, is remarkable.

Gabbar is Back

Gabbar is Back

2015 · Emirates247 · Apr 2015

Akshay Kumar gives his all to 'Gabbar is back'...Unfortunately Krish damages the reputation that 'Sholay' lend the legend.

Mr. X

Mr. X

2015 · Emirates247 · Apr 2015

Vikram Bhatt's attempt at science-fiction is diluted by tacky special effects, a convoluted plot, and random lip-locks...Emraan Hashmi's peekaboo in 'Mr X' is pretty lame!

NH10

NH10

2015 · Emirates247 · Mar 2015

Navdeep's less assured hands don't lend 'NH10' the punch it deserves. It's a good movie but not great.

Dirty Politics

Dirty Politics

2015 · Emirates247 · Mar 2015

Naseeruddin Shah appears the most uninterested and rightly so. What prompted such a stalwart to step in is anyone's guess. Take our cue, give this a miss.

Ab Tak Chhappan 2

Ab Tak Chhappan 2

2015 · Emirates247 · Feb 2015

Nana Patekar's 'Ab Tak Chappan2' is a forgettable mess...Unfortunately, the sequel never quite matches the original

Roy

Roy

2015 · Emirates247 · Feb 2015

'Roy' is a marvelously shot movie, no doubt, and holds immense promise, but never quite sums up into anything of substance. We only wish it was more about the heist, and less about the heart.

Shamitabh

Shamitabh

2015 · Emirates247 · Feb 2015

Amitabh Bachchan and Dhanush leave 'Shamitabh' half baked... They make a great team, no doubt, but Balki's plot is unable to take it to greater heights

Hawaizaada

Hawaizaada

2015 · Emirates247 · Jan 2015

Had 'Hawaizaada' been less about love, and more about dreams, it would've soared to great heights...

Dolly Ki Doli

Dolly Ki Doli

2015 · Emirates247 · Jan 2015

Had the filmmakers worked a little harder, 'Dolly ki Doli' would've turned into something spectacular. It's good, but not great.

Alone

Alone

2015 · Emirates247 · Jan 2015

It's better to leave Bipasha Basu's 'Alone' alone. It appears Bipasha Basu signed up for 'Alone' not under peer pressure (to do women-centric roles), but because she had way too many skimpy satin lingerie and lacy shorts to showcase. It's almost like she's desperate to slip back into her 'Jism' days, but unfortunately it worked years ago.

Tevar

Tevar

2015 · Emirates247 · Jan 2015

Had director Sharma tweeked the storyline and injected charm and passion into it, it might've turned things around. It's unfortunate, he didn't.

PK

PK

2014 · Emirates247 · Dec 2014

Aamir's earnest as the elephant-eared PK, who unwittingly uncovers the frauds in the religion company. His language is spot-on, but his chiseled body appears misplaced. He's a great performer, no doubt, but even he turns PK into a caricature. Anushka is the weakest link. Wonder if it's her artificial pout that distracted us from appreciating her work. She's capable of much more, but her Jaggu appears flat.

Action Jackson

Action Jackson

2014 · Emirates247 · Dec 2014

Nothing quite prepares you for Prabhudeva's 'Action Jackson'. Not even the peculiar title that attempts to glorify Bollywood's love for heroes who can fight like Superman, and dance like Michael Jackson. Nor Ajay Devgn's 'Kill Bill' moves, or his fondness to repeat a single dialogue, without any warning or provocation. What can I say, it's just one of those movies that need to be left unwatched.

Ungli

Ungli

2014 · Emirates247 · Nov 2014

'Ungli' is a good effort, judging purely by the mediocrity we've been dished out in the name of cinema of late, but that doesn't make this effort great.

Happy Ending

Happy Ending

2014 · Emirates247 · Nov 2014

...the star of the show is undoubtedly Govinda. There's a reason why he's called the king of comedy. Whether it's flipping his sunglasses at random, or shoving Hollywood DVDs at his new scriptwriter, or paying for instant six-pack abs, he's got it down perfectly. Even his disco number is 'kickass.' Unfortunately, we can't say the same about the movie.

Kill Dil

Kill Dil

2014 · Emirates247 · Nov 2014

With so much going against Ali's chaotic take on romance and guns, we think it is best left unwatched.

The Shaukeens

The Shaukeens

2014 · Emirates247 · Nov 2014

Given the number of remakes being churned out in Bollywood, it comes as a pleasant surprise to see one-movie-old Abhishek Sharma turn a 1980-hit adult comedy into something wickedly funny without ever reducing into a sleaze fest.

Roar

Roar

2014 · Emirates247 · Oct 2014

Despite the intent to highlight a topical issue, the unintelligent plot reduces it into a movie of irrelevance.

Super Nani

Super Nani

2014 · Emirates247 · Oct 2014

While Kumar might win points for versatility, for shifting from an audacious adult comedy like 'Grand Masti' into dictating morals in 'Super Nani', his transformation doesn't appear genuine and doesn't win us over.

Happy New Year

Happy New Year

2014 · Emirates247 · Oct 2014

Despite so-much going on in one film, the narrative is sluggish and often sleep-inducing.

Bang Bang!

Bang Bang!

2014 · Emirates247 · Oct 2014

'Bang Bang!' is less about logic, and more about fluff. And, that's not a bad thing, if it had been done well. But, 'Bang Bang!' ends up being an unimaginative ogle-fest. Clearly, technology has handed us more options than just Bollywood to go for.

Khoobsurat

Khoobsurat

2014 · Emirates247 · Sep 2014

With some hits and misses, 'Khoobsurat' remains fairly grounded in its genre, and comes with the disclaimer – "strictly for girls".

Daawat-e-Ishq

Daawat-e-Ishq

2014 · Emirates247 · Sep 2014

Despite promises of a delectable cookout that could send our (visual) tastebuds into a tizzy, director-writer Habib Fazil's recipe of love leaves us rather famished...

Finding Fanny

Finding Fanny

2014 · Emirates247 · Sep 2014

With so much going for 'Finding Fanny', make sure you'd step out and hitch a ride with this mad bunch and go on their road-trip because it's truly one-of-a-kind.

Mary Kom

Mary Kom

2014 · Emirates247 · Sep 2014

Remember how Shah Rukh Khan and his girls evoked a strong sense of patriotism with 'Chak De India', well, that's unfortunately absent in this sporting movie. For a five-time world boxing champion, Mary Kom surely deserved a far more imposing Bollywood tribute.

Raja Natwarlal

Raja Natwarlal

2014 · Emirates247 · Aug 2014

Kunal Deshmukh's tribute to the legendary conman Natwarlal is muddled with Bollywood staples of song and dance, and a pretty heroine, reducing it into an unlikely romance...

Mardaani

Mardaani

2014 · Emirates247 · Aug 2014

It's not in the same league as 'Kahaani' or 'English Vinglish', but it still deserves applause for attempting to portray a movie minus Bollywood's trademark frills. With so much going for 'Mardaani', it's unfortunate that its filmmakers failed to pull it through. That said, we still think it deserves a trip to the cinema just because it's a step in the right direction.

Singham Returns

Singham Returns

2014 · Emirates247 · Aug 2014

It's all about unintentional comedy and a convoluted philosophy over "give-and-take" that Rohit Shetty flaunts in his rather confused action-thriller...

Kick

Kick

2014 · Emirates247 · Jul 2014

As the curtains roll down, we can't help but notice how it requires a skillset of a different kind to watch Salman's movies. If you don't have it in you, please don't venture out!

Pizza

Pizza

2014 · Emirates247 · Jul 2014

'Pizza' manages to revive a genre that was long forgotten in Bollywood, and one that was unfairly reduced to soppy musical romances by the Bhatt brothers. Hopefully, Akkineni will manage to wipe away the damage.

Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania

Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania

2014 · Emirates247 · Jul 2014

Despite some good performances and a few wonderfully written lines, 'Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhaniya' stops from being an endearing tale of love, because it blindly piggybacks on the classic without any heart or logic. It's much ado about a lehenga!

Bobby Jasoos

Bobby Jasoos

2014 · Emirates247 · Jul 2014

Despite the effort and the hype, 'Bobby Jasoos' just doesn't make the cut. At least, not for us, especially since we cracked the case even before Bobby did. Now, that's not saying much, is it? While 'Bobby Jasoos' is a fair attempt at women-centric characters, it fails to do much else because of its inability to break free from Bollywood stereotypes.

Ek Villain

Ek Villain

2014 · Emirates247 · Jun 2014

The romance in the movie is lacklustre, with Shraddha and Siddarth sharing no real connect and ending up completely wooden. If you thought 'Humshakals' was overloaded with bad jokes, then you are wrong. Mohit gives Sajid Khan a good fight with 'Ek Villain'. The humour here is unintentional, of course!

Humshakals

Humshakals

2014 · Emirates247 · Jun 2014

...a boring, silly and infuriatingly long film. So, if you thought Sajid's 'Himmatwala' was the worst movie ever in Bollywood, then you are wrong. The title has now been handed over to his latest attempt at slapstick comedy.

Fugly

Fugly

2014 · Emirates247 · Jun 2014

The odd title is just one of the many negatives in this unimaginative attempt at a political thriller

Holiday - A Soldier Is Never Off Duty

Holiday - A Soldier Is Never Off Duty

2014 · Emirates247 · Jun 2014

The conflict, which should've effectively made a great thriller, is reduced to a poorly executed school play, where robbers and cops run around aimlessly without a clue on what they are fighting for.

Filmistaan

Filmistaan

2014 · Emirates247 · Jun 2014

For an (almost) all new cast and first-time director, it's commendable how 'Filmistaan' creates a vibrant frame in spite of relying (rather heavily) on the clichéd Bollywood dream. So, head to the cinemas, you won't regret it.

Heropanti

Heropanti

2014 · Emirates247 · May 2014

'Heropanti' is a quintessential Bollywood romance, where lovers have to fight the society, angry uncles and dominating fathers, who give love a bad name, to win over their ladylove.

Kochadaiiyaan

Kochadaiiyaan

2014 · Emirates247 · May 2014

Despite the lack of technical finesse, the filmmaker deserves to be applauded for taking a step towards innovation and change, and setting the ground work for 'Rana'.

Khwaabb

Khwaabb

2014 · Emirates247 · May 2014

Despite its imperfections, it's a small movie with a big heart, one that we must all applaud and endorse. Go on, make a difference!

Hawaa Hawaai

Hawaa Hawaai

2014 · Emirates247 · May 2014

While the end hints at melodrama and an obvious 'Bhaag Milka Bhaag' connection, Amole manages to steer clear of turning it into regular Bollywood grab. We recommend a trip to the cinemas, armed with a big box of tissues. Believe me, you'd thank us for it!

Revolver Rani

Revolver Rani

2014 · Emirates247 · Apr 2014

Although Kangana makes 'Revolver Rani' work on so many levels, the movie doesn't do her justice. We honestly wish it had.

2 States

2 States

2014 · Emirates247 · Apr 2014

With '2 States', both Varman and writer Bhagat himself, have proven that a good film in Bollywood does not have to be loud and slapstick with stellar music and A-list stars, but that script and good direction is still king at the movies.

Bhoothnath Returns

Bhoothnath Returns

2014 · Emirates247 · Apr 2014

It's another classic case of how a promising first-half isn't backed by a convincing second-part. What could have been a good movie, turned into something hugely disappointing.

Main Tera Hero

Main Tera Hero

2014 · Emirates247 · Apr 2014

If anything, 'Main Tera Hero' requires a certain amount of willpower to watch the entire film even when you know that freedom and sanity is just a door away. Don't step in. Not if you have a choice.

Dishkiyaoon

Dishkiyaoon

2014 · Emirates247 · Mar 2014

I doubt whether many will be as determined as us to watch the full movie. As we walk out of the theatre, we are left with an image of Harmen pointing a gun at himself, almost echoing the state of our mind.

Bewakoofiyaan

Bewakoofiyaan

2014 · Emirates247 · Mar 2014

Despite showing some promise, this romance fumbles and fizzles without much conviction, reducing it to a lazy DVD watch.

Gulaab Gang

Gulaab Gang

2014 · Emirates247 · Mar 2014

Although Sen steers away from turning it into a documentary, he liberally borrows real-life references from their pink revolution and guns for box-office glory without ever acknowledging their movement. Even though 'Gulaab Gang' has so much going for it, it fails to win our applause.

Total Siyapaa

Total Siyapaa

2014 · Emirates247 · Mar 2014

With so much going against 'Total Siyappa', we suggest you skip the ordeal completely and revisit those snappy trailers instead, because that's where the fun lies.

Shaadi Ke Side Effects

Shaadi Ke Side Effects

2014 · Emirates247 · Feb 2014

Despite the brilliant performances and some incredibly funny situations, Saket's narrative slumps innumerable times over the two-hour-and-twenty-five-minutes screen time. But if you have time to spare, then 'Shaadi Ke Side Effects' is a fairly enjoyable ride. Only, don't go looking for any marriage counseling here because you are not going to find it.

Highway

Highway

2014 · Emirates247 · Feb 2014

'Highway' is a road less travelled, and one that we think you must embark on. It's a bumpy ride, no doubt, but one that's set in the right direction.

Gunday

Gunday

2014 · Emirates247 · Feb 2014

Although the run-up to 'Gunday', what with foot-tapping music tracks and tightly edited trailers, was promising, the movie didn't quite match our expectations. Sadly, this one doesn't get our "thumb-print" but our thumbs-down!

Jai Ho

Jai Ho

2014 · Emirates247 · Jan 2014

'Jai Ho' is just a glorious canvas that piggybanks heavily on Salman's colossal popularity. Head out only if you are a Salman supporter, if not, this social campaign might appear unimaginatively tiring.

Dedh Ishqiya

Dedh Ishqiya

2014 · Emirates247 · Jan 2014

With so much going for 'Dedh Ishqiya', there's no reason why you shouldn't plan a trip to cinemas this weekend.

R... Rajkumar

R... Rajkumar

2013 · Emirates247 · Dec 2013

Clearly, being a great dancer doesn't automatically turn you into a great filmmaker. And, that's precisely why dancing star Prabhu fumbles and falters into making any real impression in 'R…Rajkumar'.

Special 26

Special 26

2013 · Emirates247 · Dec 2013

After flexing his muscles in over-the-top action dramas, thrashing countless baddies in single menacing blows and flaunting his super-cop powers, Akshay Kumar shifts gears and opts for a subtle, more intelligent make-over, instead. And, it works. Stupendously.

Kai Po Che!

Kai Po Che!

2013 · Emirates247 · Dec 2013

like others in this inimitable genre, this too shall win innumerable accolades. Whether it's the captivating performances, the ambitious narrative, or poetic cinematography, 'Kai Po Che' is superior in texture and commendably subtle. It also packs in all the ingredients of a sure-shot Bollywood success, without overplaying any one element. There's cricket, religion, politics, comedy, music, bromance and even a dash of romance.

Bullett Raja

Bullett Raja

2013 · Emirates247 · Nov 2013

While Dhulia deserves applause for attempting to create a quirky action thriller, he doesn't nail it. Even though the last-part turns out into an incoherent mess, the first-half is immensely entertaining. We only wish that tone was maintained till the very end. Unfortunately, it doesn't.

Gori Tere Pyaar Mein

Gori Tere Pyaar Mein

2013 · Emirates247 · Nov 2013

Do not to waste your money on this movie. You are better off donating that amount for a noble cause. At least, it'd be more meaningful than Kareena's frivolous social efforts.

Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram Leela

Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram Leela

2013 · Emirates247 · Nov 2013

While Sanjay's indulgent script, which runs into two-hours-and-thirty-five-minutes might appear a bit tedious, we forgive him because what he eventually spins out is an enchanting love story.

Krrish 3

Krrish 3

2013 · Emirates247 · Oct 2013

...will turn out to be a fun adventure for the little kids and Hrithik loyalists. For the rest of us, it's going to be just another superhero attempt in the right direction. Hopefully, it won't be long before we get our very own superman!

Satya 2

Satya 2

2013 · Emirates247 · Oct 2013

Debutant Punit Singh Ratn tries, a bit too hard, to give Satya an intriguing touch. Apart from wearing an unkempt beard, leaving his hair ruffled and speaking in a gruff, he is unable to give much depth to the character. He could probably blame his lack of experience and his laidback director and an incoherent script for this flaw.

Besharam

Besharam

2013 · Emirates247 · Oct 2013

It's shameful really, when an actor, who initially showed immense promise of being a versatile performer, is slowly turning into just another Bollywood stereotype. He has evidently abandoned his flair for picking distinctive characters with director Abhinav Singh Kashyap's 'Besharam', where Ranbir Kapoor obediently opts to flex his (lean) muscles for a mindless box-office churner.

Phata Poster Nikla Hero

Phata Poster Nikla Hero

2013 · Emirates247 · Sep 2013

For a filmmaker who has made movies like 'Lajja', 'Damini', and 'Ghayal', this one is a let-down. And, with hints of a sequel for his classic comedy 'Andaz Apna Apna', we'd just hope it just doesn't end up in a mess, like this one.

Shuddh Desi Romance

Shuddh Desi Romance

2013 · Emirates247 · Sep 2013

Unfortunately, Maneesh's rather indulgent narrative treads on a thin line, and is unable to hold our attention for long

Zanjeer

Zanjeer

2013 · Emirates247 · Sep 2013

Considering comparisons with the original are inevitable, the latest version will only expose Bollywood's inability to fine-tune or even, convincingly rehash a story that had once thrilled the audience.

Satyagraha

Satyagraha

2013 · Emirates247 · Aug 2013

Unfortunately, Jha's revolution this time round ends up unforgivably long, inadequately scripted and way too superficial to merit applause. Yes, there are moments of optimism, but those are far too few to evoke any real passion.

Madras Cafe

Madras Cafe

2013 · Emirates247 · Aug 2013

'Madras Café' rewards us with a story that refuses to bow-down to Bollywood stereotypes and traditional narrative, and remains true to what it promises to capture. Truly a first for Bollywood, and hopefully, not the last.

Chennai Express

Chennai Express

2013 · Emirates247 · Aug 2013

It's endearing at times, but the jokes are repeated so often that they lose shine. Rohit's carnival-like comedy coaxes some laughs, but can leave you exhausted. Make no mistake, 'Chennai Express' is fun, but the kind that Rohit endorses.

Issaq

Issaq

2013 · Emirates247 · Jul 2013

With Bollywood inundated with glorious stories of love, this one just doesn't make us skip a heartbeat.

Ramaiya Vasta Vaiya

Ramaiya Vasta Vaiya

2013 · Emirates247 · Jul 2013

Only those with a lavish appetite for Bollywood frivolities will be able to digest this over-the-top, mushy romance.

Bhaag Milkha Bhaag

Bhaag Milkha Bhaag

2013 · Emirates247 · Jul 2013

Cinematographer Binod Pradhan indulges in riveting imaginary to capture Milkha's haunting memories of a past bloodied during the Indo-Pak Partition.

Lootera

Lootera

2013 · Emirates247 · Jul 2013

It's remarkable how one-film-old Motwane manages to create such an exquisite masterpiece without ever trying too hard. Truly worth a standing ovation.

Policegiri

Policegiri

2013 · Emirates247 · Jul 2013

Veteran Om Puri also makes a fleeting appearance, but tickles us amply but not enough to make us want to watch this movie. Take our cue...run, before it's too late.

Ghanchakkar

Ghanchakkar

2013 · Emirates247 · Jun 2013

After exploring the gritty world of crime in the humourless 'Aamir' and 'No One Killed Jessica', Rajkumar decides to give his third thriller a witty twist. One that truly deserves an applause.

Shortcut Romeo

Shortcut Romeo

2013 · Emirates247 · Jun 2013

Towards the end of the movie, there's an attempt at being profound with the line; "If you want money then forget love. If you want love then forget money." So, where does that leave us? Completely broken.

Raanjhanaa

Raanjhanaa

2013 · Emirates247 · Jun 2013

Just when you thought that Bollywood had (slowly, but steadily) matured in its take on love, director Aanad L Rai quashes our faith with a shockingly outdated love story. ...Take our tip. Skip this one.