Emergency (2024) – A Powerful Political Drama That Strikes a Chord

 

Directed by and starring Kangana Ranaut, Emergency is a gripping historical drama that delves into one of the most controversial periods in Indian history—the Emergency of 1975. The film presents a dramatized account of the events surrounding then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s decision to impose Emergency, showcasing the political turbulence and its impact on the nation.

Plot Summary

The film chronicles the rise of Indira Gandhi (Kangana Ranaut) as India’s first and only female Prime Minister and the tumultuous period that led to the declaration of Emergency. It explores the political conflicts, the suppression of civil liberties, the crackdown on opposition leaders, and the nationwide protests. The narrative unfolds through the perspectives of key political figures, journalists, and activists who either supported or opposed the controversial decision, shedding light on the personal and political challenges faced by Gandhi.

Performances and Direction

Kangana Ranaut delivers a powerful performance as Indira Gandhi, embodying her authoritative demeanor and complex personality. Her transformation, both in terms of appearance and mannerisms, is commendable. Supporting performances from Anupam Kher, Shreyas Talpade, and Mahima Chaudhry add depth to the film, portraying pivotal historical figures with conviction.

As a director, Kangana Ranaut takes a bold approach, presenting the story in an intense and dramatic fashion. The screenplay effectively captures the political drama, though it occasionally leans towards stylization over historical nuance. The dialogues are sharp, and the film maintains a gripping pace, ensuring that the audience remains engaged throughout.

Technical Aspects

The cinematography by Pankaj Kumar effectively captures the tense atmosphere of the 1970s, using muted tones and period-accurate settings to enhance authenticity. The background score by G.V. Prakash Kumar complements the film’s dramatic intensity, amplifying key moments. The production design and costume work are meticulously crafted, bringing the era to life with precision.

Final Verdict

Emergency is a thought-provoking political drama that sheds light on a crucial chapter in Indian history. While the film takes creative liberties, it succeeds in portraying the power struggles and ethical dilemmas of the time. Kangana Ranaut’s commanding performance, coupled with strong direction and technical finesse, makes Emergency a compelling watch for those interested in history and political dramas.

Rating: Average

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Agent (2023) – A Spy Thriller That Falls Short of Expectations

 

Telugu cinema has seen its fair share of high-octane action thrillers, and Agent, directed by Surender Reddy, aimed to be an adrenaline-packed spy drama. With a promising premise and a stylish lead, the film had all the ingredients for an engaging ride but struggled to deliver a compelling narrative.

Plot Summary

The film follows Ricky (Akhil Akkineni), a rebellious young man with dreams of becoming a secret agent. When he finally gets recruited by RAW, he finds himself on a mission to track down a rogue agent, known as 'The God' (Dino Morea), who poses a massive threat to national security. As the plot unfolds, Ricky must prove his worth while navigating betrayals, intense action sequences, and a personal journey of self-discovery.

Performances and Direction

Akhil Akkineni takes on the challenge of portraying a larger-than-life spy with a rugged look and high-energy action scenes. While his physical transformation and commitment to action sequences are commendable, his performance lacks the depth needed to make the character truly memorable. Dino Morea as the antagonist delivers an intense portrayal, but his character could have been better developed.

Surender Reddy, known for his stylish filmmaking, presents visually appealing sequences but falls short in crafting a strong emotional core. The screenplay, though packed with action, feels inconsistent, with predictable twists and underwhelming character arcs.

Technical Aspects

The cinematography by Rasool Ellore is a standout, capturing high-energy chase sequences and combat scenes effectively. Hip Hop Tamizha’s background score adds intensity but lacks a signature tune that would make it truly impactful. The VFX and production design contribute to the film’s stylish appeal, but the writing and pacing issues weaken the overall experience.

Final Verdict

Agent had the potential to be an electrifying spy thriller, but it ultimately suffers from a weak script and underdeveloped characters. While action lovers may enjoy the high-energy sequences, the film falls short of delivering a truly gripping espionage drama. If you’re a fan of Akhil Akkineni or stylish action flicks, it might be worth a watch, but don’t expect a groundbreaking thriller.

Rating: Average

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Fateh – A Cybercrime Thriller with High-Octane Action

 

Fateh, directed by and starring Sonu Sood, is an ambitious action thriller that delves into the dark and dangerous world of cybercrime. Released on January 10, 2025, the film attempts to blend a socially relevant message with gripping action sequences, making for an intriguing yet imperfect watch.

Plot Overview

The story follows Fateh Singh (Sonu Sood), a former special ops officer who has settled into a peaceful life in Punjab. However, his world is shaken when a young girl from his village becomes a victim of an online scam, leading him to uncover a larger cybercrime syndicate. Determined to take down the criminals, Fateh joins forces with ethical hacker Khushi Sharma (Jacqueline Fernandez) to expose the masterminds behind these digital crimes. What follows is a high-stakes mission filled with intense combat, fast-paced chases, and shocking revelations.

Performances

Sonu Sood delivers a commendable performance as the protagonist. His action sequences are well-executed, and he brings both physical intensity and emotional depth to the role. As a first-time director, he does a decent job balancing storytelling with spectacle.

Jacqueline Fernandez, playing the role of Khushi, adds some intrigue as the tech-savvy hacker. However, her character feels underdeveloped, leaving her performance somewhat one-dimensional. Meanwhile, Vijay Raaz, as the main antagonist, adds his signature flair but doesn't quite reach the menacing potential needed for a cybercrime kingpin.

Direction & Execution

For his directorial debut, Sonu Sood showcases a clear passion for storytelling, particularly in raising awareness about cyber threats. The film’s intent is commendable, but the execution sometimes falters due to predictable plot points and over-the-top action sequences. Some moments feel too stylized, drawing comparisons to Hollywood action films but lacking the finesse of their execution.

The film's cinematography does a solid job capturing both the rural charm of Punjab and the high-tech world of cybercrime. However, some of the CGI-heavy action sequences feel excessive, making certain fight scenes appear less convincing.

Music & Action

The soundtrack is a mixed bag, with a few standout tracks that enhance the emotional beats of the story. The background score effectively adds tension, but at times, it overshadows the quieter, more meaningful moments. The action choreography, while impressive in parts, sometimes leans too heavily on exaggerated fight sequences that might not appeal to all viewers.

Final Verdict

Fateh is a film with its heart in the right place, tackling the urgent issue of cybercrime while delivering thrilling action. Sonu Sood shines in the lead role and shows promise as a director, but the film suffers from underdeveloped characters and a predictable screenplay. Despite its flaws, Fateh remains an engaging watch for action enthusiasts and fans of Sonu Sood.

Rating:Average

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Honeymoon Crasher (2025) – A Lighthearted Comedy That Misses the Mark

 

Netflix’s Honeymoon Crasher is a comedy with a quirky premise—what happens when a heartbroken groom ends up on his honeymoon with his mother? Directed by Nicolas Cuche, the film attempts to balance humor and emotional depth but struggles to break away from predictable storytelling.

Plot Overview

The story follows Lucas (Julien Frison), whose wedding gets unexpectedly canceled. Instead of sulking, he decides to go on his honeymoon trip to Mauritius—but with an unexpected companion, his mother Lily (Michèle Laroque). To avoid awkward questions, they pretend to be a newlywed couple, leading to a series of misunderstandings, awkward encounters, and heartfelt moments that test their bond.

What Works

The film’s biggest strength is its picturesque setting. The tropical paradise of Mauritius adds charm, making every scene visually appealing. Michèle Laroque delivers a warm and lively performance, making Lily a character full of life. Some moments between Lucas and Lily bring genuine emotion, offering a touch of sentimentality amid the humor.

What Falls Short

Despite its fun premise, Honeymoon Crasher relies too much on overused comedic tropes. Many jokes feel predictable, and the film struggles to deliver fresh humor. Character development is minimal, leaving little room for emotional depth. The chemistry between the leads is decent, but the script doesn't allow their relationship to evolve in a meaningful way.

Final Verdict

While Honeymoon Crasher is a light and easy watch, it doesn't leave a lasting impact. It’s a simple comedy with a fun concept but lacks originality. If you’re looking for a breezy, feel-good film, it’s worth a casual watch—but don’t expect anything groundbreaking.

A charming but predictable comedy with a beautiful setting.

Watch this movie on Netflix.

Rating: Average

Dabba Cartel: A Unique Crime Drama with a Twist

 

Netflix’s Dabba Cartel is a refreshing take on the crime thriller genre, blending suspense, ambition, and female camaraderie against the vibrant backdrop of 1960s Mumbai. Directed by Hitesh Bhatia, the series follows five ordinary housewives who secretly run a high-stakes dabba (lunchbox) business—which doubles as a front for their criminal operations. What starts as a simple hustle soon spirals into a dangerous game of power, betrayal, and survival.

What Works

The show’s biggest strength lies in its performances. Shabana Azmi commands the screen with authority, while Jyothika, Nimisha Sajayan, Shalini Pandey, and Anjali Anand each bring depth and authenticity to their roles. Their chemistry as a group feels natural, making their struggles and triumphs compelling to watch. The 1960s setting is beautifully recreated, with stunning production design and costumes that transport viewers into the era.

What Falls Short

While the premise is intriguing, the pacing feels uneven, with some episodes lacking the tension expected from a crime thriller. Certain subplots meander, occasionally pulling focus away from the central narrative. The show could have benefited from tighter storytelling to maintain suspense throughout.

Final Verdict

Despite its flaws, Dabba Cartel is an engaging watch, offering a fresh take on crime dramas by showcasing strong female protagonists navigating a male-dominated underworld. If you enjoy character-driven stories with a mix of suspense and drama, this series is worth adding to your watchlist.

A gripping crime drama with a stellar cast and a unique setting.

Watch this series on Netflix.

Rating: Average

Demon City (2025) – A Brutal and Stylish Revenge Thriller

 

Netflix’s Demon City is a high-octane Japanese action thriller that delivers intense fight sequences and a dark, gripping narrative. Directed by Seiji Tanaka, the film follows Shuhei Sakata (Tôma Ikuta), a former hitman whose peaceful life is shattered when a ruthless gang murders his family and leaves him for dead. After surviving a gunshot wound and waking up from a 12-year coma, he embarks on a relentless mission to hunt down those responsible.

With stylish cinematography, brutal combat, and a neon-lit underworld setting, Demon City is a visual spectacle. While the story sticks to classic revenge-thriller tropes, the sheer intensity of the action keeps viewers hooked.

Verdict: A must-watch for fans of hard-hitting action and vengeance-driven narratives.

Watch this movie on Netflix.

Rating: Average

Counterattack (2025) – A Gritty Military Action Thriller

 

Netflix’s Counterattack is a high-stakes military action film that delivers adrenaline-pumping combat sequences and intense survival drama. Directed by Chava Cartas, the film follows Captain Guerrero (Luis Alberti) and his elite team as they embark on a hostage rescue mission that quickly spirals out of control. Stranded behind enemy lines, they must fight their way through relentless ambushes to make it out alive.

With gritty realism, well-choreographed action, and immersive cinematography, Counterattack keeps viewers on edge. While the storyline follows familiar military tropes, the film excels in execution, offering a tense and engaging watch for action-thriller enthusiasts.

Verdict: A must-watch for fans of tactical warfare films

Rating: Average Movie

Watch this movie on Netflix.

 

Thandel (2025) – A Tale of Love, Resilience, and Patriotism

 

Chandoo Mondeti’s Thandel is an emotionally charged romantic action drama that beautifully captures love, sacrifice, and survival. Starring Naga Chaitanya as Raju, a fearless fisherman, and Sai Pallavi as Satya, his devoted lover, the film takes us on a journey that tests the strength of their bond.

Plot

Raju’s life takes a tragic turn when he unknowingly drifts into Pakistani waters during a fishing expedition and gets imprisoned. As he battles adversity in captivity, Satya fights against all odds to bring him home. The film seamlessly blends romance with gripping moments of patriotism, keeping the audience invested.

Performances

Naga Chaitanya delivers a career-best performance, convincingly portraying Raju’s struggles with raw intensity. Sai Pallavi shines as Satya, bringing heartfelt emotions to the screen. Their chemistry is effortless, making their love story all the more impactful.

Technical Brilliance

Devi Sri Prasad’s soulful music enhances the film’s emotional depth, while Shamdat Sainudeen’s cinematography captures the breathtaking coastal landscapes and the grim reality of imprisonment. The screenplay is engaging, though some prison sequences could have been more intense.

Verdict

Thandel is a compelling drama that tugs at the heartstrings. While the pacing falters at times, the powerful performances and emotional depth make it a must-watch for fans of intense love stories with patriotic undertones.

Rating:Average

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Vidaamuyarchi - Movie Review

 

A married couple who loves deeply due to gap in their relationship want to get separated. During this process wife gets kidnapped? Who did this and what happened to them?

Want to know? Watch this movie on Netflix.

An interesting movie with twists and turns.

Rating: Average

Pushpa 2 - Movie Review

 

Pushpa 2, is a continuation to Pushpa movie. This time, Pushpa's stakes are high and Action scenes are abundant. This movie made for mass audience and purely feast for Allu Arjun fans.

Sukumar's direction and DSP Music did not do much magic to the film

Rating: Average Movie

Vijay 69 - Movie Review

 

Vijay who is at the age of 69, suddenly finds that there is a great gap in his life, and wants to find a purpose in his life and focus on achieving a goal so that he can create a history for himself. Did he able to achieve it?

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Rating: Average

Kishkinda Kaandam - Movie Review

 

A newly married girl, came to Kerala and starts spending time in her in-laws house. She finds something mysterious behavior about her father-in-law. Did she finds what is wrong in the house?

Want to know? Watch this movie on Hotstar.

Rating: Average

Level Cross - Movie Review

Level Cross  is a gripping thriller that dives into the dark and complex world of crime, human connections, and moral ambiguity. 

Level Cross is an intense, thought-provoking thriller that captures the fragility of human choices and the consequences they bring. With strong performances, atmospheric visuals, and a gripping storyline, it’s a must-watch for fans of suspenseful, character-driven dramas.

Watch this movie on Aha

Rating: Average

Do Patti - Movie Review

 

Do Patti is a captivating Hindi thriller that combines suspense, emotion, and complex storytelling in an intriguing way. Set in a remote, mysterious town, the film centers on two women—played by Kriti Sanon and Kajol —who are pulled into a dangerous investigation that unearths buried secrets, tests their friendship, and forces them to confront their pasts.

The storyline unfolds as a gritty mystery with a touch of emotional depth, focusing not only on the plot but also on the growth of the characters. The two leads are beautifully portrayed, with both actresses bringing a strong, authentic presence to their roles. Their performances make the connection between the characters feel genuine, and their chemistry keeps you engaged throughout the twists and turns of the story. It’s refreshing to see two powerful female protagonists carrying the narrative forward with strength and vulnerability.

The direction and screenplay effectively set a moody, atmospheric tone that complements the story’s suspenseful elements. The remote setting adds an eerie charm, and the cinematography captures the rugged beauty of the location while keeping the suspense alive. The tension is further amplified by a well-chosen background score that builds with each unfolding twist.

Though the film keeps you hooked, the pacing does slow down a bit in the middle, with a few scenes that feel slightly dragged out. Additionally, some plot twists are predictable, but they are well-executed and contribute to the emotional arc of the characters.

What stands out most about Do Patti is how it combines the thriller genre with a story of friendship and self-discovery. It’s not just about solving a mystery; it’s about facing one’s own past and finding strength in unlikely places.

Do Patti is a thrilling, emotional ride that brings a fresh perspective to the mystery genre. With powerful performances and an engaging storyline, it’s a must-watch for fans of suspenseful dramas. It’s the kind of movie that keeps you guessing—and reflecting—even after the credits roll.

Watch this movie on Netflix.

Rating: Average

Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha - Movie Review

 

Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha is a gripping tale of love, betrayal, and redemption, set against the complexities of human relationships. Directed by Neeraj Pandey, the film takes you on an emotional roller coaster, exploring how choices made in the heat of the moment can have long-lasting consequences.

The story follows Ajay and Tabu, who finds themselves at the crossroads of love and loyalty, torn between their heart and the circumstances life has thrown at them. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that the film is not just about romance, but also about the moral dilemmas that come with it. The film beautifully balances intense emotions with quiet, reflective moments, allowing the audience to connect deeply with the characters.

Ajay and Tabu delivers a standout performance, bringing depth and complexity to their role. Their portrayal of character is both heart-wrenching and relatable, especially in the moments of vulnerability that the character experiences. The chemistry between the leads is palpable, and their interactions feel genuine, adding weight to the emotional stakes of the story.

The film’s direction is top-notch, with stunning visuals that highlight the emotional intensity of the scenes. Whether it’s a quiet moment of introspection or a high-stakes confrontation, the cinematography captures the mood perfectly. The background score also enhances the overall atmosphere, blending seamlessly with the emotional beats of the film.

One of the strengths of Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha is its ability to keep the audience engaged throughout. The plot is layered, with unexpected twists that add depth to the characters and their relationships. However, there are moments where the pacing feels a bit slow, particularly in the second half, but the emotional payoff makes it worth the wait.

The film does an excellent job of exploring the grey areas of human relationships—where love, guilt, and sacrifice intersect. It forces you to reflect on the choices we make for the people we care about and the impact those choices have on our lives.

Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha is a beautifully crafted film that will leave you thinking long after the credits roll. With strong performances and a poignant story, it's a must-watch for those who appreciate emotionally driven narratives.

Watch this movie on Prime.

Rating: Average Movie

 

Gorre Puranam - Movie Review

 

Gorre Puranam brings an interesting blend of rural charm, dark comedy, and social commentary, set against the backdrop of a remote village. The film revolves around the quirky traditions and everyday struggles of the villagers, with a central focus on their unique relationship with goats, which play a pivotal role in the community’s life and culture.

The story follows a villager who becomes entangled in a strange series of events involving his prized goat. The humor is subtle yet effective, often poking fun at the simple, yet superstitious lives of the villagers. What really stands out in Gorre Puranam is how the filmmakers have used these comical situations to address deeper societal issues, like class divides, blind faith, and rural politics, without being too preachy.

The performances are solid across the board.The supporting cast adds to the film’s charm, with their humorous portrayals of village life and their unique quirks, making the characters feel grounded and authentic.

Visually, the film makes excellent use of the rural setting, with beautiful shots of the village and surrounding countryside that really immerse you in the world of the story. The cinematography captures the simplicity and beauty of village life, while also highlighting the humorous moments in subtle, visually engaging ways.

Though Gorre Puranam has its share of laugh-out-loud moments, it can feel slow at times, especially in the middle where the pace drags slightly. However, the charm of the characters and the underlying messages keep you engaged till the end.

Overall, Gorre Puranam is a fun and insightful film that offers both humor and heart. It’s a light-hearted take on village life, with enough substance to make you think about the themes beneath the comedy. If you’re in the mood for something different and rooted in rural culture, this film is definitely worth checking out.

Watch this movie on Aha.

Rating: Average Movie

Mattu Vadalara 2 - Movie Review

 

Mattu Vadalara 2 picks up where the first film left off, delivering another dose of quirky humor, thrills, and a twisted narrative. Directed by Ritesh Rana, this sequel keeps the same core vibe of the original but with new layers of chaos and confusion that fans of the first movie will appreciate.

The story continues with Babu and his friends, who yet again find themselves embroiled in an unexpected, bizarre situation that spirals out of control. True to the style of the first movie, Mattu Vadalara 2 blends dark comedy with suspense, using humor to break the tension of the unfolding mystery. The plot is fast-paced, filled with unpredictable twists, and doesn’t take itself too seriously, which is a big part of its charm.

One of the strongest aspects of this sequel is how it retains the offbeat humor that made the original so enjoyable. The dialogue is sharp, with plenty of hilarious moments, especially in how Babu and his friends react to increasingly absurd situations. Vennela Kishore and Satya returns with a standout performance, bringing his comedic timing and quirky charisma back to the screen.

Visually, the movie makes use of stylish cinematography and fast cuts, adding to the sense of urgency and craziness in the narrative. The music and background score enhance the comedic and thrilling moments, keeping the mood light yet exciting.

That said, Mattu Vadalara 2 isn’t without its flaws. The plot, while entertaining, sometimes feels like it’s trying too hard to outdo the first film in terms of twists and absurdity. This can make some moments feel overly complicated or forced. There are also sections where the pacing feels uneven, particularly in the middle of the film where the humor overshadows the actual progress of the story.

Still, for fans of the first Mattu Vadalara, this sequel delivers on the fun and quirky tone that made the original a hit. It’s not perfect, but it’s an entertaining ride with plenty of laughs and surprises along the way.

 Watch this movie on Netflix.

Rating: Average Movie

Love,Sitara - Movie Review

 

Love Sitara is a refreshing romantic drama that follows Sitara, a young woman trying to find balance between her love life, career, and personal dreams. The movie does a great job of showing how complicated love can be, especially when you’re also trying to figure out who you really are.

The lead actress Shobhita Dhulipala does an amazing job portraying Sitara. She’s relatable, confident, and easy to root for. Whether she’s falling in love or going through tough breakups, her performance feels real. The chemistry between her and the male lead, Rajeev Siddhartha, is natural and keeps you invested in their relationship. Their interactions range from sweet and fun to emotional, which makes you really care about what happens to them.

The movie’s visuals are beautiful too, with colorful, vibrant settings that add to the overall vibe of the story. The music also fits perfectly, with catchy romantic songs that help set the tone and make the film even more enjoyable.

Although the storyline has a few predictable moments and follows some typical romance tropes, the heartfelt performances and Sitara’s personal growth keep things interesting. The movie isn’t just about finding love with someone else, but also about learning to love yourself and figuring out what you really want from life.

Love Sitara is a feel-good movie that leaves you smiling. If you enjoy romantic dramas with strong characters and a positive message, this one is worth watching!

Watch this movie on Zee5.

Rating: Average Movie

Trouble - Movie Review

 

A guy who works in an electronic showroom goes for a TV installation gets into a big trouble.

What happened to him?

Watch this murder mystery on Netflix.

Rating: Average Movie

Madame Web - Movie Review

 

A mother who is doing research on spiders will find a rare species spider which may be helpful for future generations medicine. But god gave her a different destinty.

Do you want to know what is that?

Watch this movie on Netflix.

Rating: Average