Mujhse Fraaandship Karoge(2011): Movie Review
Mujhse Fraaandship Karoge: Must watch for social networking addicts
Cast: Saqib Saleem, Saba Azad, Tara D’Souza, Nishant Dahiya and Prabal Panjabi
Director: Nupur Aastana
Rating: ***
“Mujhse Fraaandship Karoge” is a sweet teen romance in the times of broadband connection, social networking sites and fake IDs! It explores the pros and cons of the proposed ‘fraaandship’ networking in our lives. It offers food for thought with – “SACH is the key word and face to face connection is the best connection.”
A new era love story, the film revolves around four characters – Vishal Bhatt (Saqib Saleem), Rahul Sareen (Nishant Dahiya), Preity Sen (Saba Azad) and Malvika Kelkar (Tara Dsouza).
Set in a college campus, Vishal with pal Hacky (Prabal Panjabi) are up to pranks with fellow classmates. These initial scenes are a direct rip-off from the Hollywood film “The Social Network”.
After a few complicated moments one realises that prankster Vishal is a good writer who pens lyrics for rockstar pal Rahul. Girls are crazy about Rahul, but Rahul seems indifferent towards them.
Also on campus is an odd, boorish and unladylike Preity Sen who is good at photography. She happens to be friends with the hot and happening Malvika Kelkar.
It so happens that Malvika’s id pops up on Rahul’s profile page and since he is disinterested in adding friends on his Facebook, Vishal takes the initiative. But unknown to him Malvika’s id is being operated by friend Preity. And that’s where the complication in the love story begins.
Vishal chats with Preity thinking it is Malvika. And Preity chats with Vishal thinking it is Rahul. They are head over heels in love in their virtual world.
Meanwhile, the college is celebrating its silver jubilee. The theme for the evening is – A photographic documentary of the romantic history of the college. Vishal and Preity are forcibly thrown together for the project. The inevitable happens. They are attracted to each other, but they still fantasise about their virtual relationship.
But how long can fake identities sustain the real love? Reality bites when they confront each other.
Nupur Asthana has deftly handled this complicated love story. In the beginning one does get a bit disoriented trying to establish the complicated relationship. But after the initial hi-cups, the story sets in. The first half is nothing to write home about and the second half gets you hooked.
“Mujhse Fraaandship Karoge” is a hackneyed love story but excitingly brewed with fresh faces. With an expressive visage, the film belongs to Saqib Saleem and Saba Azad. They are faces to watch out for in the long run.
The bright attractive cinematography adds to the visual impact that captures the spirit of a foreign college campus.
The dialogues are witty but at times seem to go a bit off tangent especially during the bar scene between Rahul and Malvika.
Music by Raghu Dixit makes a commotion of ear-splitting happening on dance floor. The lyrics by Anvita Dutt is ‘Yuppie’ and unusual. Vishal Dadlani’s coarsely vocals gels well with screechy voice of Aditi Singh Sharma and evokes out the musical confrontation in Hinglish “hip-hop” melodic mode.
The film tries honestly to create a bond of friendship with its set of urbane viewers and succeeds to a large extent in delivering it. A movie worth a dekho.
Copyrights: IANS
My Friend Pinto (2011) : Movie Review
Cast: Prateik, Kalki Koechlin, Arjun Mathur, Shruti Seth, Makrand Deshpande, Divya Dutta
Written and Directed by Raghav Dar
Rating: ***1/2
“Zindagi khwab hai khwab mein sach hai kya aur bhala jhooth hai kya?” Remember Motilal’s staggering existentialism in 1956’s “Jagte Raho”? Some such philosophy underlines the key goings-on in “My Friend Pinto” — a wispy, nostalgic comedy about a Goan simpleton’s one night of zany adventures in the mad mad bustle of Mumbai during New Year’s eve.
This isn’t the first film that explores Mumbai by night. From Khwaja Ahmed Abbas’s “Bambai Raat Ki Bahon Mein” to Sudhir Mishra’s “Iss Raat Ki Subah Nahin”, the dark comic side of the city’s underbelly has ceaselessly fascinated Bollywood since long before the term ‘Bollywood’ was invented.
Debutant director Raghav Dar switches on the innovative mode full-blast. The first and most conspicuous component in his comic romp is the director’s sense of fun.
He is fearless about the fun quotient that he has while going with one sumptuous swoop into lives as different from one another as any two homes, families that live in Mumbai can be.
A semi-retired gangster (Makarand Deshpande) and his never-been star-actress mistress(Divya Dutta), his twin assassin-goons Ajay and Vijay (played by real life Amin and Karim Hajee who were last seen together on screen dancing in a Sufi trance to A.R. Rahman’s devotional number in Jodhaa-Akbar), an old taxidriver and his gambler-son(theatre actor Shakeel Khan making a stellar screen appearance), a lost girl Maggie(Kalki Koechlin) abandoned by her small-time crook boyfriend on the railway station, the competitive couple (Arjun Mathur and Shruti Seth) coping with the sudden appearance of an unwanted guest from Goa, even as they try to cope with the fissures in their own marriage… These, then, are some of the characters who show up one night in Dar’s ‘Mumbai raat ki bahon mein’ (Mumbai at night).
There are many others. Oh yes, characters pop out of every nook and cranny like rabbits from a hat. Bringing them all together is the Goan Mama’s boy, the simpleton Michael Pinto who we’re informed, with tongue firmly in the scriprwriter’s cheek, is the nephew of Albert ‘jissko bahut gussa aata tha’ (who gets very angry).
The reference to Saeed Mirza’s 1980 cult classic “Albert Pinto Ko Gussa Kyon Aata Hai” is not lost in the film’s melee of bustling adventures. The film is knowledgeably laden with references to cinema and cinematic devices from the past including a very pointed allusion to a corpse’s journey across Mumbai from Kundan Shah’s “Jaane Bhi Do Yaaron”.
“My Friend Pinto” is a very complex script to write and an even more complex act to pull off on screen. Dar manages the chaos created by Michael Pinto’s misadventures across the celebratory streets of Mumbai with fluency and grace.
The awkwardness that we encounter in the storytelling is purely by design. Pinto is put into all kinds of bizarre and embarrassing situations. Like Charlie Chaplin in the silent films, he walks out of the chaos unscathed.
He is a Goan angel in disguise. He’s Chaplin, Raj Kapoor and Guru Dutt from “City Lights”, “Jagte Raho” and “Pyasa”. He is all of those and none of them.
Prateik with his waif-like quality truly finds himself as an actor when he plays a lost character. “My Friend Pinto” needed his vulnerability and uncertainties.
The supporting cast is impressive, with Divya Dutta and Makrand Deshpande having a ball with their guns and games. They are like two bulls in a sex shop. Arjun Mathur as Pinto’s desensitised Mumbai friend creates quite a graph for his character within the limited space provided by the restless script.
Quirky, capricious, whimsical and at times magical (watch those Broadway-styled musical performances), “My Friend Pinto” conveys the key comic patterns of Kundan Shah’s “Jaane Bhi Do Yaaron”.
Prateik echoes the innocent adventures of Raj Kapoor in “Jagte Raho”. Dar’s directorial debut is endearing in its eccentricity.
When you leave the crazy comic cosmos of Pinto’s world behind, you take away with you a film that is fiercely original in concept and designed to deliver tongue-in-cheek swipes at all those scared cows of Bollywood that we grew up watching and loving without knowing why we loved them in the first place.
There is something about “My Friend Pinto”. But you don’t really know what.
Speedy Singhs (Breakaway) (2011) Movie Review
Movie Rating 3/5
Ratings:3/5 Reviewer:Nikhat Kazmi Site: TimesOfIndia
Speedy Singhs is a smart little surprise package. It's a cheerful film that makes you smile with its subtle humour, its repartee-filled screenplay, its deftness at handling the umpteen relationships and its finely-nuanced performances.More than the performances -- and the hockey matches -- it is the sundry relationships that form the core of the film. A little more spice and edge to the delineation of the game itself would have made the film an action-packed adventure too. Nevertheless, Speedy Singhs, with a guest appearance by Akshay Kumar (as himself), is an entertaining watch.Mausam (2011) Movie Review
Movie Rating 3/5
Ratings:3/5 Reviewer:TNN Site: TimesOfIndia
Yes, the allure of the first half of Mausam lies in the vintage love story which proceeds through unsaid words, unexpressed feelings, stolen glances and lots of melody (Pritam Singh). The affair which begins in 1992, before the demolition of the Babri mosque has an oriental charm to it and makes for some moments of great viewing.But in second half Pankaj Kapur seems to lose his grip, at least partially, on the story which crosses continents and slips on the natural charm and high emotional quotient that made the first half eminently watchable. Don't be dissuaded however, for Mausam has lots to offer to the viewer who doesn't mind his cinema languorous, laid back and moody, with loads of beauty. The film tries to strike a balance between art and mainstream cinema and succeeds partially.
Ratings:4/5 Reviewer:IANS Site: MSN
‘Mausam’, a film that has some serious flaws, but finally holds together as a work of renaissance art, more remarkable, in parts outstanding, for what it attempts rather than what it finally achieves.Pankaj Kapoor takes the Muslim-Hindu love story between a Kashmiri refugee girl and a Punjabi boy through an arching sweep of history. Every historical trauma that has defined and defiled India and Indians in the last 30 years props up as a vital image to underline the love story.Mausam’ is about the thwarted love between Shahid Kapoor and Sonam. When they finally meet during the Gujarat riots, they seem to discover not love but its aftermath, which is a far greater thing than love.You have to hand it to Pankaj Kapoor. In his directorial debut, he tells an old-fashioned story of love, separation and reunion with flourishes and flashes of great cinema igniting what would in lesser hands, appear to be a trite tale of love gone frightfully cliched.
Ratings:2/5 Reviewer:Supergoodmovies Site: SuperGoodMovies
The first thing that comes to my mind after watching Mausam was that why on earth did it take so much time to complete. Coming to how it is, well you do not expect this Khichdi from a veteran like Pankaj Kapur.Pankaj Kapur in his directorial debut tries to tell a beautiful love story but if only he would have stuck to that, the film would have been a better experience. He touches the Kashmir, Mumbai, Ahemadabad riots and even the 9/11 twin tower blast in America but only from the surface. The plot was excellent only if the focus was maintained. Though the first half is still watchable, the second merely disappoints and the climax is outright stupid.
Bodyguard (2011) Movie Review
Rating:4/5
Ratings:4.5/5 Reviewer:Taran Adarsh Site: BollywoodHungama
BODYGUARD is atypical Salman entertainer, yet there are moments [in its second hour specifically] that make it stand apart from all Salman starrers we have witnessed in the recent past. BODYGUARD presents Salman exactly the way we expect him to be presented, but, at the same time, the film brings back memories of the soft, romantic roles that Salman essayed in his initial films. What makes the film tick is that Salman and director Siddique have done something hatke within the limitations of the typical Bollywood formula, which, I am sure, should appeal to the Hindi movie buff abundantly. On the whole, BODYGUARD works for varied reasons -- it has a simple, but captivating story with a dramatic twist in the tale, the chemistry between the lead actors is perfect and the music is well juxtaposed in the narrative. But its biggest USP is, without doubt, Salman Khan. He carries the film on his broad and brawny shoulders and that alone is the imperative reason for watching this film. BODYGUARD should emerge his third festive hit and fourth super-success at the ticket window.Ratings:2/5 Reviewer:Saibal Chatterjee Site: NDTV
Of course, whether you find Bodyguard entertaining or not will hinge entirely on whether you have any patience for a storyline that is as brainless as a pea. The story soars on the wings of wild whimsy without for once letting logic getting in the way.In the ultimate analysis, Bodyguard is an out-and-out Salman Khan film meant to be taken in the festive spirit of the season. Love it or lump, chances are that its backers will be laughing all the way to that bank while you, if you aren’t willing to give its excesses a long rope, will be tearing your hair out in exasperation.
Ratings:4/5 Reviewer:Komal Nahata Site: Koimoi
What’s Good: Salman Khan’s endearing character; his performance; the mass-appealing action and comedy; the well-tuned music and well-choreographed songs. What’s Bad: The half-baked screenplay; the unanswered questions that leave the audience with a feeling of incompleteness. Watch Bodyguard for Salman Khan and Kareena Kapoor’s performances.On the whole, Bodyguard had the germs to become a super-hit fare but it remains a good fare mainly because its script looks contrived and too convenient at places
Ratings:4/5 Reviewer:One India Site: OneIndia
Bodyguard is his usual masala entertainer film, but director Siddique seems to have grown beyond Salman's limits. The movie Bodyguard has simple and engaging story that is relatable. Nothing much happens in the first half of the film and it runs with a routine Bollywood masala. But the movie turns serious with a twist at the end of the first half. Siddique has shown the best part of the film in the second half. The film has an unexpected twist in the pre-climax, which is completely shocking.Overall, Bodyguard is a good masala entertainer and it can be a perfect time-passer.Salman's fans should not miss to watch this movie.
Ratings:3/5 Reviewer:SuperGoodMovies Site: SuperGoodMovies
Despite of it being considered as an action film Bodyguard is a love story at heart. True to Salman’s words, the film reminds you of his romantic films that ruled the roots in his peak years as chocolate boy.The film just before climax takes unusual turns and twists which makes it an interesting masala film with a relatable plot. With this one Salman has slammed his critics who criticized him for his no-brainer comedy-masala films.The film is a perfect family entertainer and an ideal release for a festive occasion. ‘Bodyguard’ will successfully enthrall you to the core.
Bol (2011) Movie Review
Rating: 3.5/5
Ratings:4/5 Reviewer:Taran Adarsh Site: BollywoodHungama
BOL makes you peep into the lives of a family living in Pakistan, making us aware of the predicament, the anguish, their determination to survive against all odds. The family decides to solve their problems, but get into deeper troubles gradually. The struggle for life and death is what catches your eye. BOL shocks and stuns also because of the sub-plots in the plotline and the twists and turns in the story. I'd like to add that one has rarely witnessed such themes on the big screen. It serves as a wake-up call for the orthodox types on both the sides of the border. On the whole, BOL is a courageous film that has the guts to expose issues plaguing the society. It raises questions, challenges the age-old customs and mirrors a reality most convincingly. A brilliant film embellished with bravura performances. Not to be missed!
Ratings:3/5 Reviewer:Saibal Chatterjee Site: NDTV
In Bol, he pours his indignation out in no uncertain terms.It is strident, melodramatic and unmistakably out for the jugular. But in the end, it drives home its point in a manner that is compelling enough for all the effort not to be dismissed as much ado about nothing.The roots of Bol lie firmly in Pakistan’s contemporary reality, but its heart seems to be more in consonance with the traditions of commercial Mumbai movies than with the cinema of protest that it aspires to be. But that isn’t necessarily undesirable especially because the message that the film delivers is urgent, heartfelt and of considerable import.
Ratings:4/5 Reviewer:Martin D Souza Site: Glamsham
BOL is thought-provoking, compelling and forthright. It brings the subject to light, but never once does Mansoor force his view on the audience. Nor do his characters. Within the ambit of their circumstance, each actor stretches his or her arm, never once trying to go beyond. That's the brilliance of this film. BOL explores the helplessness of the girl child. Though the length of the film does play a major hindrance, once the credits roll, you don't really mind it. Shoaib Mansoor has once again made you think. Once again he has taken on a subject everyone should be talking about.
Ratings:4/5 Reviewer:Daily Bhaskar Site: Dainik Bhaskar
Bol is a roller coaster ride of emotions, an inspiring bold movie that takes you through sensitive gender issues and troubles, regarding family planning in the society. The first half is inspiring, though the screenplay in the second half is not that gripping with unnecessary insertion of music. But overall the film is refreshing and tells you about the virtues of small family without being preachy.Bol is surely recommended, as it is one of the finest movies Pakistan has ever produced. It will take you through a roller coaster ride of emotions with awe-inspiring performances. It’s quite conceptual and realistic and director Shoaib Mansoor deserves all accolades for presenting such a challenging subject without making it ‘un-Islamic
Ratings:1/5 Reviewer:Daily Bhaskar Site:Dainik Bhaskar
‘Mummy Punjabi’ tries to tickle one's funny bone, by presenting a ‘New Age Mother India’ with grandeur and humour, but fails in its attempt. Except Kirron Kher, none of the characters have been etched out properly to leave a considerable mark. The plot is extremely chaotic and lacks any basic storyline. The over dramatic and melodramatic mannerisms of all the actors becomes irritating and the climax is unintentionally funny, though extremely inspiring. Not one scene in this cinematic rubbish comes close to making any sense.Nothing sums up ‘Mummy Punjabi,’ better than a brain-numbing movie with a mayhem stirring family drama. Add to this, outrageously bad acting by the supporting cast. This one's not recommended at all.Yeh Dooriyan (2011) Movie Review
Rating 1.42/5
Ratings:2.5/5 Reviewer:Taran Adarsh Site: BollywoodHungamaRating 1.42/5
YEH DOORIYAN may not be that perfect film that talks of life after divorce, but you can't deny that Deepshikha makes an effort to portray the reality with a lot of honesty. Though it's a first-time effort, the writing and even the handling of a few scenes does spring a pleasant surprise.A divorcee with two kids. Is life tough? For a single mother, who wears the pants and calls the shots, plus manages home and kids, it's a challenge for sure. So what happens when she ends up falling in love with a much younger guy? How does the society react to a situation like that? That, in a nutshell, is the gist of YEH DOORIYAN.On the whole, YEH DOORIYAN is a decent attempt. Ratings:2/5 Reviewer:Nikhat Kazmi Site: TimesOfIndia
Yeh Dooriyan might hold interest. Not as a peek-a-boo in the actor's personal life, but as a tch-tch (sorry) tale on the plight of divorced, single mothers in our society, who as the film says, are `available' but not eligible in the eyes of men with martinet moms. A brave attempt, Yeh Dooriyan needed a dash of polish and a healthier dose of story.
Ratings:-- Reviewer:Rohit Vats Site: IBNLive
The screenplay takes a lot of time to establish the characters, and eventually they don't get established, except Deepshikha's. The director has focused more on the exotic locations, rather than the acting.Director's inexperience becomes visible, when she goes with the clichés. One thing that makes this film different is its climax, which is still problematic to digest for a conservative society. Deepshikha should be praised for her bold take on the issue of being a divorced parent. She stands by the issue and looks convincing in the ultimate sequences and that is the USP of the film. Yeh Dooriyan celebrates womanhood, and presents the new age independent woman, in a brave manner. She should be praised for it. Your opinion about the film will depend on your social perspective.
Ratings:2.5/5 Reviewer:Daily Bhaskar Site: Dainik Bhaskar
The subject of Yeh Dooriyan is fresh and it shows the mindset of a woman who is divorced, but unfortunately the simplicity of the story acts like a hitch, making it way too predictable. It lacks twists to make one sit for the entire duration, but manages to entertain in parts. What stands out is the climax.Kudos to Deepshikha for choosing a feminist subject and the treatment meted out to it. Yeh Dooriyan has been handled quite maturely, considering the fact that this is her directorial debut. She falls short of driving the right emotions in the viewer and the moments of grief, portrayed in the flick are not convincing. Since the story revolves around one character, it takes away the chance from the director to make her other actors perform too. People who don’t demand a big star cast and are open to watching a movie in which, the actress steals away all the limelight, can give it a shot.
Ratings:1/5 Reviewer:Aniruddha Guha Site: DNA
Yeh Dooriyan is the kind of film that comes once in a while. There’s only one way for you to get to know the film: watch it to believe it.At many places, Yeh Dooriyan left me open-mouthed, and in a state of disbelief. Is such a film for real? It is. If cinema is supposed to shock, Yeh Dooriyan succeeds.
Ratings:0.5/5 Reviewer:Mrigank Dhaniwala Site: Koimoi
What’s Good: Hardly anything!What’s Bad: The poorly-written screenplay; the insipid and boring drama; the average performances.Verdict: Yeh Dooriyan will flop miserably at the box-office.Loo break: Several.Watch or Not?: It is best to keep your distance from Yeh Dooriyan.urther.
Ratings:1.5/5 Reviewer:Taran Adarsh Site: BollywoodHungama
On paper, CHITKABREY - SHADES OF GREY would indeed come across as a never-watched-before-on-screen concept. It's a revenge saga basically, with ample scope to take the wind out of your sails. But the sting, so vital in a film like this, is clearly missing. In fact, the writing is so slapdash that the interesting concept goes for a complete toss. Is it the 'boldest ever subject'? Oh yes, a few moments in CHITKABREY - SHADES OF GREY are indeed bold, but by no means is this film the 'boldest ever'.On the whole, CHITKABREY - SHADES OF GREY is an attention-grabbing concept gone wrong!
Ratings:1.5/5 Reviewer:Nikhat Kazmi Site: TimesOfIndia
Every film has a purpose. Chitkabrey too must have one. Only, it completely defies you as you try to keep pace with the proceedings on screen. Nothing really makes sense, neither the college campus sequences when a grotesque looking Ravi Kissen is ragged by a bunch of loonies and forced to flee to his mama, back home. nor does the act of vengeance when the loonies are forced to do a Sach ka Saamna sequel, baring their misdeeds of the past before a judgemental ringmaster. . Can't think of anything really to recommend.
Ratings:1/5 Reviewer:Sujata Chakrabarty Site: IBNLive
The film being touted as Bollywood's boldest film also makes mockery of bold and sensual films as a genre of cinema. If Aamir Khan's Delhi Belly was given the tag of a 'bold film', Chitkabrey-shades of grey should ideally take the crown for being Bollywood's most inane film. Films like 3 Idiots have also touched on the menace of ragging but restrained from sounding overtly preachy - the same mistake that Arora does with Chitkabrey. There are risque scenes generously sprinkled in the film. Of course there is nothing wrong in showing that extra bit of skin but all the scenes are in cheap taste making you cringe with embarrassment. While the menace of ragging is a burning topic even today, Chitkabrey-shades of grey is a definite pass up.
Ratings:1/5 Reviewer:Saibal Chatterjee Site: NDTV
Chitkabrey – Shades of Grey is a classic case of fair intentions marred beyond recognition by warped execution. The film may lay claims to being bold and brazen, but what it ends up being is utterly banal, when it is not shockingly bizarre.Chitkabrey proffers loads of sex and sleaze by way of recompense. In fact, there is more skin on show in this film than one is accustomed to being exposed to in mainstream Hindi cinema. These gratuitous semi-porn passages are made all the more risible by the consistently poor acting all around. Chitkabrey, which redefines cock-and-bull with gay abandon, is quite a test. Go for it only if you are a sucker for tedium.
Ratings:1/5 Reviewer:Mrigank Dhaniwala Site: Koimoi
What’s Good: The well-intentioned story; Ravi Kishan’s performance.What’s Bad: The boring screenplay; the staid drama; the below-average performances of most of the rest of the cast. Verdict: Chitkabrey will flop at the box-office because it has neither face value nor anything to offer by way of entertainment.Watch or Not?: Watch if you are tired of films dealing with the issue of ragging, and want to see the story go a step further.
Ratings:1.5/5 Reviewer:Daily Bhaskar Site: DainikBhaskar
he film rests on a very thin storyline, which lacks lustre in its execution too. Good intentions of the story-teller, to show goodness winning over evil, falls flat, thanks to a terribly written screenplay. What compounds to the misery, are the frequent flashbacks that leave one totally confused.Few good performances, dialogues and editing to some extent, are the high points of the film. Poor storyline, bad screenplay and an extremely intolerable music are the weaknesses.Overall, ‘Chitrabrey-Shades of Grey’ has nothing to offer, so one can easily give it a miss.
On paper, CHITKABREY - SHADES OF GREY would indeed come across as a never-watched-before-on-screen concept. It's a revenge saga basically, with ample scope to take the wind out of your sails. But the sting, so vital in a film like this, is clearly missing. In fact, the writing is so slapdash that the interesting concept goes for a complete toss. Is it the 'boldest ever subject'? Oh yes, a few moments in CHITKABREY - SHADES OF GREY are indeed bold, but by no means is this film the 'boldest ever'.On the whole, CHITKABREY - SHADES OF GREY is an attention-grabbing concept gone wrong! Ratings:1.5/5 Reviewer:Nikhat Kazmi Site: TimesOfIndia
Every film has a purpose. Chitkabrey too must have one. Only, it completely defies you as you try to keep pace with the proceedings on screen. Nothing really makes sense, neither the college campus sequences when a grotesque looking Ravi Kissen is ragged by a bunch of loonies and forced to flee to his mama, back home. nor does the act of vengeance when the loonies are forced to do a Sach ka Saamna sequel, baring their misdeeds of the past before a judgemental ringmaster. . Can't think of anything really to recommend.
Ratings:1/5 Reviewer:Sujata Chakrabarty Site: IBNLive
The film being touted as Bollywood's boldest film also makes mockery of bold and sensual films as a genre of cinema. If Aamir Khan's Delhi Belly was given the tag of a 'bold film', Chitkabrey-shades of grey should ideally take the crown for being Bollywood's most inane film. Films like 3 Idiots have also touched on the menace of ragging but restrained from sounding overtly preachy - the same mistake that Arora does with Chitkabrey. There are risque scenes generously sprinkled in the film. Of course there is nothing wrong in showing that extra bit of skin but all the scenes are in cheap taste making you cringe with embarrassment. While the menace of ragging is a burning topic even today, Chitkabrey-shades of grey is a definite pass up.
Ratings:1/5 Reviewer:Saibal Chatterjee Site: NDTV
Chitkabrey – Shades of Grey is a classic case of fair intentions marred beyond recognition by warped execution. The film may lay claims to being bold and brazen, but what it ends up being is utterly banal, when it is not shockingly bizarre.Chitkabrey proffers loads of sex and sleaze by way of recompense. In fact, there is more skin on show in this film than one is accustomed to being exposed to in mainstream Hindi cinema. These gratuitous semi-porn passages are made all the more risible by the consistently poor acting all around. Chitkabrey, which redefines cock-and-bull with gay abandon, is quite a test. Go for it only if you are a sucker for tedium.
Ratings:1/5 Reviewer:Mrigank Dhaniwala Site: Koimoi
What’s Good: The well-intentioned story; Ravi Kishan’s performance.What’s Bad: The boring screenplay; the staid drama; the below-average performances of most of the rest of the cast. Verdict: Chitkabrey will flop at the box-office because it has neither face value nor anything to offer by way of entertainment.Watch or Not?: Watch if you are tired of films dealing with the issue of ragging, and want to see the story go a step further.
Ratings:1.5/5 Reviewer:Daily Bhaskar Site: DainikBhaskar
he film rests on a very thin storyline, which lacks lustre in its execution too. Good intentions of the story-teller, to show goodness winning over evil, falls flat, thanks to a terribly written screenplay. What compounds to the misery, are the frequent flashbacks that leave one totally confused.Few good performances, dialogues and editing to some extent, are the high points of the film. Poor storyline, bad screenplay and an extremely intolerable music are the weaknesses.Overall, ‘Chitrabrey-Shades of Grey’ has nothing to offer, so one can easily give it a miss.
Stand By (2011) Movie Review
Rating 2.25/5
Ratings:2.5/5 Reviewer:Taran Adarsh Site: BollywoodHungama
STANDBY is not just about sports, but also talks of friendship gone sour. How ambitions can create a rift and drive a wedge between thick pals. Though the film is a notch above the ordinary, with Surkar keeping the viewers glued to the proceedings in most parts, what acts as a roadblock, at places, are the songs that have been juxtaposed in the plotline. Frankly, STANDBY should have been a songless film; that would've only made it stand apart from films of its ilk. On the whole, STANDBY is a fairly good effort that drives home a point. Regardless of how it fares at the box-office, you can't deny the fact that it's a well-made, sincere effort. Ratings:3/5 Reviewer:Nikhat Kazmi Site: TimesOfIndia
Stand By tries to answer the important query that has been repeatedly posed in public fora: why can't India boast of any other sporting discipline besides cricket? Of course, the drama does get a bit too filmy when a sea of misfortune befalls Rahul's hapless family and an item number is introduced out of nowhere. But by and large, Stand By maintains its rhythm and remains true to the basic core of highlighting the rot that needs to be cleared from Indian sport. This one's an honest attempt to entertain and make a valid point as well.
Ratings:1.5/5 Reviewer:Letty Mariam Abrahim Site: IBNLive
Stand By is like a typical sports film but minus the rush or excitement that a game usually gives you. 'Stand By' although has good performances but has nothing new to offer.Over the years there have been several sports based films, Lagaan, Chak De India, Iqbal, Dhan Dhana Dhan Goal, etc. Be it cricket or football, every game gives you an adrenalin rush which was totally missing in Stand By.The first half of the film drags on unnecessarily, while the second half manages to pick up a little pace. But the climax is comical and a big letdown.All in all, ‘Stand By’ has good performances but a very weak and predictable story and script. If a lot of unnecessary parts are cut out, the film could be shorter and maybe watchable. But I’d suggest against it.
Ratings:2.5/5 Reviewer:Martin D Souza Site: Glamsham
Politics has always been the bane of Indian sport and this has been highlighted in the media time and again. The rich try to influence team selection, while those in power barter for deals. STAND BY is one such story where a business tycoon wants to see his son in the playing XI at any cost. Even at the cost of his son's best friend, who too is a soccer player.While the issue dealt in Stand By is worthwhile, the manner in which Surkar - a first time Bollywood director, has attacked the plot lacks punch. Surkar chose a fine subject which had tremendous potential to hit the right chord with the audience. But 'team' selection let him down coupled with lack of use of advanced technology.
Ratings:1/5 Reviewer:Komal Nahata Site: Koimoi
What’s Good: A few scenes between Adinath and Sachin Khedekar; the story idea.What’s Bad: The loose screenplay; absence of emotions; lack of soul-stirring music.Verdict: Standby will go largely unnoticed.Loo break: A couple.Watch or Not?: Watch it if you like sports films.
Ratings:3/5 Reviewer:Daily Bhaskar Site: DainikBhaskar
‘Stand By’ is very convincing with its approach, as far as the narration is concerned. Though, the film doesn’t claim itself to be of suspense genre, the story-teller surprises one with the way each sub-plot unfolds mysteriously in the film. Extremely intelligent soccer games with no drama quotient keep one at the edge of the seat. Brilliant characterisation and frequent encounters of the characters, on the issue which has been tackled with powerful dialogues, make it an interesting watch. Pacy screenplay, dialogues, nice concept are the strong points of the film. Untimely music, editing and slightly poor look of the film are the drawbacks.On the whole, ‘Stand By’ comes as a breather amidst other releases. It's surely a one-time watch.
Conan The Barabarian 3D (2911) Movie Review
Rating 1.93/5
Ratings:3/5 Reviewer:Nikhat Kazmi Site: TimesOfIndia Rating 1.93/5
Like all epic heroes Conan the Barbarian too takes up the task of saving his village from the powerful supernatural evil forces. Which means loads of bloody moments with monsters, enemies, evil powers, head crushing, nose chopping, merciless slaughters... Let's not forget, all this comes naturally to our hero -- Conan was born in middle of the battlefield! The 2011 version does make you nostalgic for the original 1982 Conan where Arnold Schwarzenneger immortalised the Barbarian with his wooden -- yet winsome -- pure beefcake act.
Ratings:1.5/5 Reviewer:Shaikh Ayaz Site: Rediff
Conan the Barbarian is awfully rehashed with not a single saving grace (probably Morgan Freeman's presence instead of just his voice would have instilled some hope), Conan The Barbarian is second-class entertainment with zero compassion and sympathy towards its inhabitants -- and its audience. Marcus Nispel injects the film with intense sword-fighting, battle sequences and surreal clashes with the evil forces. When the characters are engaged in none of the above, they indulge in machinations which lack both intrigue and imagination. Where's the drama?
Ratings:2.5/5 Reviewer:Manhola Dargis Site: NYTimes
“Conan the Barbarian” now comes with 75 percent more gore.“Conan the Barbarian” tarted up with 3-D and introduced in voice-over by an understandably uncredited Morgan Freeman, is partly an origin story and partly proto-mythopoetic men’s movement gibberish involving good versus evil, the usual swords, sorcery and flagrantly bulgy masculinity.What Mr. Nispel brings is the gore and plenty of it (those severed heads are simply the sanguineous beginning) as well as some wit and surprisingly O.K. performances
Ratings:1/5 Reviewer:Mrigank Dhaniwala Site: Koimoi
What’s Good: The action sequences; the 3D effects.What’s Bad: The usual story; the average screenplay which has no twists and turns to offer; the farcical drama; the average performances; the excessive bloodshed; the loud and headache-inducing background score.Verdict: Conan The Barbarian will attract and entertain only a select few. It will flop at the Indian box-office. Loo break: Several in the second half.Watch or Not?: Watch only if you are a fan of heavy-dose action films with a lot of gore and blood.
Ratings:2/5 Reviewer:Daniel Pinto Site: DNA
Conan: The Barbarian, despite its sword and sorcery embellishments is just another vehicle for a just another dumb action movie.Expect a lot of brutality and decapitations to a pulse-pounding score but none of the imagination, bleakness and excitement of Howard’s works that since 1932 have been begging for a decent cinematic adaptation. After a spate of sub par horror remakes, Nispel fouled up something good all over again.
Ratings:2.5/5 Reviewer:Peter Deburge Site: Variety
With all earnestness, Nispel embraces the property's classic roots, placing this new "Conan" squarely within the tradition of sword-and-sorcery pics. Protagonist in this Marcus Nispel-directed reboot of Conan the Barbarian shows a modicum of respect toward the men he slays and topless wenches he liberates. More importantly, the well-executed pic solves the biggest challenge facing those hoping to breathe new life -- however nasty, brutish and short -- into the 79-year-old franchise by finding an actor capable of filling Ah-nuld's shoes, all of which portends brawny international biz, with sequels to follow.
Shabri (2011) Movie Review
Though well executed with several interesting moments, the problem with SHABRI is that it comes too late in the day. I mean, haven't we had an overdose of gangster movies in rapid succession? Besides, SHABRI is atypical RGV flm [though it's directed by Lalit Marathe] in terms of mood, setting and even shot compositions.On the whole, SHABRI comes too late in the day. Sure, it holds your attention in parts, but there's no novelty whatsoever in its plot.
Ratings:3/5 Reviewer:Nikhat Kazmi Site:TimesOfIndia
The novelty of Shabri lies in it's narrative style, the stark black and white canvas and the gritty, realistic performances by the ensemble cast. It's a hard-hitting, non-fussy narration of the events that transform a no-nonsense slum dweller into a fearless, dangerous killer and a scheming gangster with Isha Koppikar lending depth to the lead character, Shabri.The action is fast-paced, the acting is immensely watchable and Shabri ends up as a stylish debut by director Lalit Marathe
Ratings:2.5/5 Reviewer:Sukanya Verma Site: Rediff
Produced by Ram Gopal Varma , this long-delayed slice of criminal life directed by debutant Lalit Marathe falls in the same genre as Satya or Company but doesn't possess the technical pizzazz or sly narrative of these afore-mentioned landmarks. Instead it wears the appearance of a sincere television film that relies predominantly on inspiration to take the story forward.Shabri, set in slums and Mumbai's dark belly, isn't without its share of gore. Take your pick between a gruesome ear-cutting sequence or the third-degree torture of a minor in a lock-up, this one is as nasty as it gets.Everyone in the supporting cast with the exception of Zakir Hussain rises to the occasion and makes Shabri, despite its many flaws, watchable if not memorable.
Ratings:3/5 Reviewer:Martin D Souza Site:Glamsham SHABRI moves with speed, is slickly shot and has a background score which adds weight to the screenplay. All actors chosen to play their parts give a first rate performance, with the exception of Zakir Hussain whose role is not properly defined.Marathe means business from the very first scene. He cleverly mixes the urban setting with the shot of a gun.he lacks the punch in the second half where the film tends to veer off course, thanks to the character of Zakir Hussain.While Marathe has cleverly scraped the underbelly of the crime world, along with the slum inhabitants, he has failed in the make-up of his woman underworld don. SHABRI proves that he is not just a writer of repute but also a man who can steer the ship - screenplay, dialogue, et al.
Ratings:2/5 Reviewer:Gaurav Malani Site:TimesOfIndia
Projected as a story of a woman gangster, Shabri isn't exactly an intricate underworld drama that traces the upsurge and downfall of its female protagonist. It is more of a basic revenge plot with an underworld backdrop. But the major limitation of the narrative is that it spans a very short period in the life of Shabri which ends with her induction into underworld. Other than that the writing gets convoluted and confusing in the second half with the introduction of a scheming co. The end, despite having a shock value, is too conveniently achieved. Also for an underworld action drama, the pacing is quite slow.
Ratings:1/5 Reviewer:Komal Nahata Site:Koimoi
What’s Good: The fast pace of the film; Eesha and Zakir Hussain’s performances.What’s Bad: Lack of novelty of subject.Verdict: Shabri will fail to make its mark.Loo break: Not really.Watch or Not?: Watch it for Eesha’s performance.
Ratings:3/5 Reviewer:Aniruddha Guha Site:DNA
Shabri is completely Marathe’s film, pluses and minuses included. Marathe keeps the setting grim, the background effective without being overpowering, and extracts some good performances from his cast. Sadly, the story lags a bit as the film progresses.Simple as Shabri is, director Marathe makes the film a gritty watch that keeps you fairly engaged. At around 95 minutes, that’s not so bad.
Fright Night (2011) Movie Review
Rating: 3/5Cast: Anton Yelchin, Colin Farrell, Sandra Vergara, Dave Franco, David Tennant
Director:Craig Gillespie
Time:1 hour 46 minutes
General: Horror
Movie Review: Why do once-upon-a-time good neighbours -- Yelchin and Jerry turn cross one fine day ? Not the fact that Yelchin's a cool dude at high school, while Jerry never went to high school. Not even that Yelchin's a hit with every babe on campus, while Jerry chooses to remain single. It's the Dr Hyde in the Jerry by day -- an alpha bloodsucker with a body count that knows no boundaries. Of course, this is made known to the neighbourhood by none other than Yelchin when students from his class go missing. And thus begins the duos `You've been watching me and I've been watching you' game that draws Charley's mom, best friend, girl friend... 
A game that not only includes innumerable runs, but also a smart war of words between the vampire and its slayer: Yelchin offends Mr Vampire saying that `Jerry's a terrible name for a vampire'. Jerry gives it back saying Yelchin's mom's gives away a `bad smell', rather than his `girlfriend's ripe smell'. But like all things inhumane, the neighbourhood also takes a lot of convincing from Yelchin, and his recruit -- a professional vampire hunter and an LA showman Peter Vicent (David Tennan). Enter the 3D dramatics. Watch out for the vampire talons and fangs that leap out at you. Next up are fireballs and zooming arrows. And then come the cries of victims with blood oozing out of necks, hissing and screams. For a moment though you feel you're caught inside a dummy house of vampires. But then we are not complaining. For reasons two: First, is David Tennant who adds colour with his one liners and most importantly self-confidence issues when facing vampires. And second is Colin Farrell as the sexy and charming vampire who chooses blood to romance, has a wicked sense of humour and above all, `loves living a life of more than 400 years'. Are you listening the 17-till-I-die vampire! Copywright by: timesofindia
Spy Kids 4: All The Time In The World (2011) Movie Review
Ratings:1/5 Reviewer:Shaikh Ayaz Site: Rediff
Even if Spy Kids 4 is targeted at the kids, it takes its audience too lightly. Usually, such action-adventure films don't have a story and it's futile to look for one. What they have is a concept in place of a story and it must be reminded that even concepts divested of engagement with emotions are not worth it. Spy Kids 4 falls into the category of hype over heft.
Ratings:1/5 Reviewer:Mrigank Dhaniwala Site: Koimoi
What’s Good: The performances of the kids – Rowan Blanchard and Mason Cook; the funny lines spoken by Argonaut, the (speaking) family dog.What’s Bad: The underdeveloped script; the zero value addition by the 4D element (smell); absence of appealing costumes and gadgets, which were the hallmark of the previous Spy Kids films.Verdict: Spy Kids: All The Time In The World is a below-average fare. Apart from a section of the audience in the cities, it will find no appreciation at the Indian box-office.Watch or Not?: Watch only if your kids insist.
Ratings:1.5/5 Reviewer:Taran Adarsh Site: BollywoodHungama
CHATUR SINGH TWO STARS throws logic to the winds. It tries hard to tickle your funny bone. The on-screen characters -- most of them -- indulge in buffoonery. There's a conscious effort to pack one joke after another. Yet, CHATUR SINGH TWO STARS doesn't work as a film. That's because the writing is ridiculously silly and the jokes are bland and unappealing. On the whole, CHATUR SINGH TWO STARS tries hard to make you laugh, but fails in its endeavour. Ratings:0/5 Reviewer:Ankur Pathak Site: Rediff
The funniest and the most incredible part of Chatur Singh 2 Star -- a film, which I can confirm is a second hand version of The Pink Panther is -- that the makers felt they could actually pull off the ambitious slapstick. Chatur Singh... makes Pink Panther resemble the Godfather of the slapstick variety. There are times in the film that make it so bad that it is good.Bravo! Sorry,To put it mildly, Chatur Singh Two Star is the worst instance of Bollywood attempting slapstick with ostensibly A-grade outlook. What you get is a headache-inducing recipe Inspector Chatur Singh. You leave me with no option but to snatch away even the self-awarded two stars.
Ratings:0/5 Reviewer:Saibal Chatterjee Site: NDTV
Chatur Singh Two Star looks like a film that has been put together with sequences that would have been better left in the editor’s recycle bin. Not one scene in this load of cinematic rubbish comes remotely close to making any sense. Yes, asinine is the word to describe this unfunny mess. Chatur Singh Two Star is a classic demonstration of how not to make an action comedy.This is a film that proffers madness without the slightest semblance of method. It’s just as well that there are two stars in its title. It doesn’t deserve any.
Ratings:0.5/5 Reviewer:Komal Nahata Site: Koimoi
What’s Good: Nothing actually!What’s Bad: Poor story; pathetic screenplay; weak comedy; dull performances by many of the actors.Verdict: Chatur Singh Two Star is not worthy of any stars! A comedy which will make the people associated with it cry!Watch or Not?: Watch if you have nothing better to do.
Ratings:1/5 Reviewer:Daily Bhaskar Site: Dainik Bhaskar
Chatur Singh Two Star, is based on a novel ‘Chaalak Jasoos’ . Though Director Ajay Chandhok has tried to tickle the funny bones of the audience, he fails in his attempt. Though Sanjay Dutt as Chatur Singh is at his rib tickling best with perfect disguises, looks and mannerisms that are extremely hilarious, but still he fails to impress, as the storyline lacks punches.Chatur Singh deserves no special mention, as the film has no storyline and narrative. In fact, considering the fact that the genre is comedy, the fun element is also missing. Simply stay away from Chatur Singh this week and be with Anna to fight against corruption.
Ratings:1/5 Reviewer:-- Site: SuperGoodMovies
Chatur Singh Two Star has disaster written all over it. The humor in it is out-dated and the story is one of the most irrelevant tales of recent times. Based on the once-famous novel it isn’t a great concept for the film. There are many loop holes in the script and director Ajay Chandhok fails to cover them up.