In "Nocturne Indien",Alain Corneau's handling of two senior Indian actors Iftekar and TP Jain is absolutely splendid.Watching them utter some serious lines written by Alain Corneau one gets a feeling that they have been working in serious films through their lives.We get to see 4 different layers of India as this film's primary vision is is based on an Italian novel "Notturno Indiano" written in 1984 by famous Italian writer Antonio Tabucchi.Alain Corneau's film is second vision of "Nocturne Indien" with its archetypal focus on a westerner's look at eastern mysteries.Third vision of this film is presented by India as a country without any embellishment.Lastly,fourth vision is the spectator's vision who is free to draw any conclusion after having read the book or see the film.While discussing his film "Nocturne Indien", famous French director Alain Corneau funnily remarked that like most of his other films,"Nocturne Indien" is also a "Polar".This might appear to be a funny thing to exclaim as those who are acquainted with French culture know that "Polar" refers to a thriller.In reality,Nocturne Indien is not at all a thriller in the real sense of the word.It is likely that many viewers might mistake it for a thriller as the search for a missing man is one of this film's major highlights.French actor Jean Hugues Anglade is a perfect reason to watch this allegorical film which shows a positive image of India.
Reviews
27 Reviews
Stardust Memories
(1980)
Only Woody Allen could have made such a film in 1980.
7 June 2011
Let us start by getting to the heart of the matter.Stardust refers to an extremely naive romantic quality.By this yardstick,stardust memories are those romantic remembrances of the past which are an integral part of human consciousness.Old memories must be assessed on a timely basis in order to make sense of the life one is leading.This is precisely something which Woody Allen chose to depict in his film "Stardust Memories".In many ways,this film gives viewers an idea about Woody Allen's status in American cinema.We get to see through this film that he is neither a product of Hollywood studios nor a leading light of American independent cinema movement.He is quite simply an American director who has embedded a lot of European sensibilities in his films.Stardust Memories reveals that film directors like to lead different kinds of lives outside of their film making activities.It is a common fact that everybody would like to be associated with a film director in order to promote some social cause.This aspect has been nicely depicted by Woody Allen in this film.One word about Woody Allen's women characters.The women characters of "Stardust Memories" are not weak but they have also not been shown as strong willed women.In this manner their is a mysterious ambivalence concerning this film's women protagonists.Black and White format is a nice method chosen by Woody Allen as all our dreams,all our memories are invariably made up of black and white images.
Killer Klowns from Outer Space is a fun movie shown on MGM channel
6 June 2011
It is known to many a true cinema fan that American cinema is continually obsessed with perennial themes such circus,cops,clowns, killers and science fiction.The treatment of these themes would vary from film to film as it would depend a lot on the director what he/she would like to convey.A film with one of the above mentioned themes is a joy to watch when its direction is handled by experienced Hollywood directors such as Abel Ferrara or Tim Burton.However,it is a different story when a horror film theme is interspersed with elements of slapstick comedy in order to produce unusual effects.This is precisely the case with "Killer Klowns from Outer Space" which has been directed by a lesser known entity named Stephen Chiodo.Everything about this film makes for a good laugh as there is hardly any hint of seriousness. It is a mystery as to why the production team chose to undermine the horror cinema elements of this film.Some sub plots also have been added to sustain viewers' interest but they are also of less use as this film fails to provide desired comical effect.The film fails completely to function as a horror cinema offering.Finally,what the viewers are offered to watch is a pastiche of various cinematographic genres which do not have the tendency to move in any particular direction.
Place de la République
(1974)
French director Louis Malle makes an average film about a famous part of Paris and its oddball inhabitants !!!!
16 June 2010
The title of French director Louis Malle's documentary film "Place De La République" can be interpreted in two distinctly different manners.For many viewers it is a decent documentary film about a famous area in Paris known as "Place De La République".Those who know French language well and are well versed with various subtle intricacies of French culture would not forfeit even a single minute to make out that this title is talking about the status of the French republic as a nation. Louis Malle has nicely blended these two elements while filming his film by choosing "Place De La République" area for a film shoot and republic of France as its political focus.Although the primary focus is on Paris as a French city,concerns of France as a country have not been overlooked as viewers get to hear and see many regional voices from different French areas.One big problem with this film is that Louis Malle follows a very primitive,raw form of documentary film making in which there is no narration.His choice of interviews is also very haphazard and it discourages viewers to form any kind of cohesive association with various people's lives which have been filmed.Louis Malle was a better director of fiction films but his documentary films also deserve to be watched as they provide interesting glimpses about how human beings behave in a social environment.However,this aspect is not fully developed in this film.
Partir, revenir
(1985)
Magician of French cinema Mr. Claude Lelouch makes a great film about music and its soothing effects on people haunted by a sad past !!!!
14 June 2010
French film "Partir/Revenir" would always be remembered for its musical score.This film's solid foundation has been built around a mesmerizing musical score composed by great Sergei Vasilievich Rachmaninoff and Michel Legrand.Those who know about French director Claude Lelouch and his "large than life" films would surely be aware of the fact that Mr.Lelouch had directed all kinds of major stars of French cinema.This phenomenon is quite visible in this film as there is something unique about unparalleled Lelouchian method of handling actors.This is one reason why players like Annie Girardot,Jean Louis Trintignant,Marie France Pisier, Michel Piccoli and Richard Anconina who are veritable stars of French cinema remain true actors when they are in a Claude Lelouch film.While making "Partir/Revenir",Claude Lelouch has ensured that there should not be any hint of an impending sensationalism and suffering.This narrative device functions well in this film as it has neither tears nor trauma with which audiences generally tend to associate Holocaust/Nazi themed films.The true beauty of this film lies in its many scenes of joyful madness.PS : Film critic Lalit Rao would like to thank a good friend Mr.Philippe Pham for having gifted a DVD of this film for detailed analysis.
The Banishment
(2007)
Russian director Andrei Zvyagintsev proves that he is not a one hit wonder !!!!
11 June 2010
Those who have seen Russian director Andrei Zvyagintsev's first film "The Return" will have no trouble in realizing that his second film "Izgnanie" /"The Banishment" is equally impressive.However,his second film is little less effective despite having many themes in common with his first film.It can be surmised that it was due to intriguing focus on adults instead of children.This is exactly the reason why many a times viewers might get the impression that children are used merely as unavailing props.Astute viewers will also notice that many references to Tarkovsky are quite natural and self explanatory as Andrei Zvyagintsev is an honorable heir of that famous Russian school of cinema which prides itself in observing minute things in greater detail.It is true that a film maker must not give all answers to viewers but highhandedness of Andrei Zvyagintsev's direction failed to engage viewers.This is one reason why so many essential questions remained unanswered throughout the film.But this would surely not deprive any sagacious viewers to enjoy this extremely meaningful film with excellent focus on art direction especially in the manner interiors have been created.
Sharasôju
(2003)
Maverick Japanese filmmaker Ms.Kawase Naomi shows that a family is a great source of joy !!!!!
11 June 2010
A family will always remain a sacred institution for cinema if we take into account the depiction of families on silver screen.It is believed that American cinema and European cinema are known for their spontaneous portraits of family life.However,most national cinemas in Asia including Japanese cinema prefer to sketch a highly restrained description of family life.All erudite viewers have witnessed that in films by Ozu Saan.This is exactly something which viewers can experience in Japanese film "Sharasojyu" directed by renowned Japanese director Kawase Naomi.Her film can be termed as an extremely exquisite portrait of family life.Most filmmakers would evoke a birth and a death in their films to talk about human lives.However,Kawase Saan has gone a step further by choosing to depict in a charming reverse order a death /a disappearance and a birth to present her views about simple life in a small Japanese town.Her film appears admirably genuine and refreshingly honest as family tensions have been consigned to an inferior position to extract best performances from actors to effectively portray other human qualities such as community living and friendship.Many a times all viewers wish that a film must not remain a film but become life.This wish comes true in a particular scene when an entire town is dancing.One is not human if that dance sequence does not stir noblest of feelings in your heart and sad tears tinged with happiness on your cheeks.PS : Film critic Lalit Rao would like to thank a good friend Mr.Philippe Pham for having gifted a DVD of this film for detailed analysis.
Nue propriété
(2006)
Belgian director Joachim Lafosse films sad disintegration of a disgruntled family !!!
8 June 2010
In his first film "Nue Propriété"/"Private Property" Belgian director Joachim Lafosse films the progressive disintegration of a discontented middle class family.His film is a tragic tale of fragile relationships wherein all characters are weak and easily subdued due to their inseparable internal weaknesses.One can expect that a film with family breakdown would be incendiary.However,in "Private Property" rabble rousing is confined to a bare minimum level in order to make this film a veritable low key affair.This is done by quietly filming many scenes in which cinematically speaking nothing much happens.It is in these scenes that audiences are able to witness simple human activities such as family members eating their meals and two brothers playing an amusing Ping Pong game.As usual grand dame of French cinema Isabelle Huppert is brilliant in her role of a mother who has to deal with many different men in her life.Her character is developed in such a manner that it hangs between three different extremes.However,"Nue Propriete" appears credible due to strong acting performances by actors Jérémie Renier and Yannick Rénier who are brothers in real life.This is a film to watch in case if somebody is interested in witnessing how families are ruined.PS : Film critic Lalit Rao would like to thank a good friend Mr.Philippe Pham for having gifted a DVD of this film for detailed analysis.
They Came Back
(2004)
Débutant director Robin Campillo makes a pleasant film about the status of dead people in a living society !!!!
7 June 2010
Everybody knows that unusual ideas are always welcomed in cinema.This is an observation which holds for French director Robin Campillo's film "Les Revenants"/"They came back".This is a socially relevant French film about old people who are given a new lease of life.Although this film talks about dead people,it cannot be classified as a zombie film. France is an economically strong European nation which is thinking hard about its old people."Les Revenants" is a socially relevant film which goads us to reflect on the plight of old people.It is not only France which has to think about aging population.Many economically developed nations would soon have large population of old people.It is for them to device strategies to make life worthwhile for their old age denizens. This is why "Les Revenants" is more a film about French society and its handling of issues related to old people's welfare and well being.Film director Robin Campillo and his screenwriter Brigitte Tijou have written a gripping scenario which continually asks what is to be done with dead people who have come to live with living people.This exceptionally sound narrative gives rise to a series of poignant observations about old people and their behavioral traits with surprisingly uncommon results.PS :Film critic Lalit Rao would like to thank a good friend Mr.Philippe Pham for having gifted a DVD of this film for detailed analysis.
Calcutta
(1969)
By making Calcutta, French director Louis Malle has created a harrowing cinematographic experience !!!!
6 June 2010
French director Louis Malle's feature length documentary "Calcutta" would turn out to be a harrowing experience for anyone who is interested in serious cinema.It is not the depiction of abject poverty which is shocking but the manner in which this film was shot is quite revolting.Etienne Becker's camera did not show least bit of concern for his subjects as their privacy was violated in many ways.It felt as if some intruders were hell bent on snatching moments of innocence from common people.This disputatious position would surely play a leading role in polarizing viewers.It can be surmised that even hardcore documentary cinema admirers would doubt this film's neutrality as it appears much too prejudiced.Louis Malle has not been able to strike a fine balance between what he personally experienced in Calcutta and what Calcutta really had to offer.This is one of the reasons why he chose to highlight what he experienced more than what was being offered.As this is a documentary with minimal commentary,viewers would be forced to draw their own conclusions.City of Calcutta is synonymous with its strong political stance.This aspect of Calcutta has been depicted by Louis Malle in a very light manner.This film's few moments of relief were filmed only when Louis Malle chose to become a sociologist.Those are the moments which would please audiences not accustomed to the depiction of anything controversial.
Changing Times
(2004)
An above average film directed by veteran French film director André Téchiné !!!!
1 June 2010
French film "Les Temps Qui Changent"/"Changing Times" is one of those nicely crafted culturally relevant films which suffers a lot due to richness of its great ideas ! This might seem strange as there are many minor stories in this film which invariably cross their paths with a brilliant main story.This is an element which fails to create an impression on viewers as an irregular back and forth jumping in time does not make any significant attempt to concentrate on any single aspect of its protagonists' emotional and sexual lives.There are some nice views of Moroccan city Tangiers as viewers get to see legendary superstars of French cinema Gérard Depardieu and Catherine Deneuve make all possible sacrifices to rekindle their lost flames of love. However,all this fails to create a solid film as supporting cast has done an average job.André Téchiné has made better films and this film's failure would not dishearten his loyal admirers who know that he would emerge victorious again with a new film probing unfathomable depths of human relationships.PS : Film critic Lalit Rao would like to thank a good friend Mr.Philippe Pham for having gifted a DVD of this film for detailed analysis.
Vodka Lemon
(2003)
Kurdish film director shows a humane story of economic hardships set in snow capped mountains of Armenia !!!!!
1 June 2010
It is believed that a successful film is recognized not only by a good story but also by the manner in which that particular good story is told.If we take these concepts into consideration and watch "Vodka Lemon",we would find that we are watching a good story which is being told in a very frank and honest manner.In "Vodka Lemon",Iraqi/Kurdish film director Hiner Saleem deftly shows the warmth of human emotions in an area full of snow.His film gives a creditable message that due to their indefatigable will to survive ordinary people can remain warm even in an extremely cold area covered with many snow capped mountains. His film bears testimony to the fact that life goes on for everybody despite various obstacles which are mostly related to money.For admirers of ancient Soviet Union,Vodka Lemon gives many hints related to the nostalgia of the old times.Some of this film's characters seem to suggest that old times were wonderful in former Soviet Union as everybody was able to lead a simple life without having to bother about food and other issues related to money.Apart from its political viewpoint which is fairly innocuous,Vodka Lemon wins viewers' hearts as it has most flavors of human emotions such as comedy,satire and tragedy. In the modern realm of world cinema there are times when talented filmmakers are discovered purely by chance.Hiner Saleem is one such discovery whose film "Vodka Lemon" won the best film prize as part of counter current section at Venice International Film Festival 2003. PS : Film critic Lalit Rao would like to thank a good friend Mr.Philippe Pham for having gifted a DVD of this film for detailed analysis.
Topkapi
(1964)
Heist film maestro Jules Dassin directs an average film about a botched robbery !!!!
27 May 2010
We all know that a film can look good on paper as long as there are film fans who have not seen it.It is only by watching a particular film that a film fan is in a position to decide whether it is a masterpiece or a terrible piece of entertainment ? "Topkapi" is known as a brilliant heist film but film critic Lalit Rao could not really get to appreciate it as this film's lead players choose to spend their time in pursuing other pleasure activities instead of concentrating on their heist plans.It is due to this and other plot related inconsistencies that Topkapi can be considered as an absolutely weak effort by maestro of heist film genre Monsieur Jules Dassin.He is known to have made better films where action spoke louder than words. While watching "Topkapi",one can surely notice that there are too many nice views of Turkey.It is not known whether it was all intentionally relevant or director Jules Dassin wanted to achieve a kind of exotic nirvana in order to find spiritual enlightenment in Istanbul.It is due to these reasons that there are moments in this film where it appears as if it is nothing but a glamorous propaganda film made for Turkish government with a sole objective of giving a boost to local tourism industry.It is only for 20 minutes of its heist sequence that "Topkapi" is able to cement interest in viewers' minds.Alas,by that time viewers must surely have made up their mind to stop paying any attention to what is happening with the film.
The Outrage
(1964)
American director Martin Ritt seems to suggest that not all American films are copied from elsewhere !!!
27 May 2010
There is something elusive about Martin Ritt's film "The Outrage" as what starts with supposedly minor characters slowly develops into a serious drama with the help of established actors.This is a rather curious anomaly as this film features famous actors like Edward G. Robinson and William Shatner who play some extremely minor roles.This meaningful film must escape from the clutches of unwarranted comparison to Japanese cinema maestro Akira Kurosawa's cult classic "Rashomon".No true film fan can deny that there might be similarities with that film yet "The Outrage" remains absolutely true to its American essence.With a fairly good command of colloquial Spanish,American cinema legend late Paul Newman excels in every frame.He proves that he is very much a woman's man despite getting a very negative role.It is said since time immemorial that various truths and lies are fair and valid as long as their authenticity is expressed in a just manner.This axiom holds full sway in this film."The Outrage" is a film wherein viewers have been urged to believe in the sanctity of male/female relationships especially when a man and a woman become a husband and wife.
Yvonne's Perfume
(1994)
It appears that French director Patrice Leconte lost artistic control over this average film !!!!
26 May 2010
A bad film also merits proper attention as it can help critics and viewers to ascertain what went wrong during the making of a particular film.This is also true for French film "Le Parfum d'Yvonne" which remains one of those horribly bad films which deserves to be seen as it has been directed by a famous director.For this film Patrice Leconte loses artistic control on many occasions as he leaves a lot of questions unanswered.The entire film is nicely shot and depiction of fun loving idlers is authentic yet this film fails to captivate audiences.This is the reason why most of the viewers will have a hard time figuring out what this film was trying to convey.It appears that viewers might complain that very less background information has been provided to enable them to comprehend what the film was all about. Despite its inherent shortcomings "Le Parfum d'Yvonne" is a film whose established actors Hipployte Girardot and Jean Pierre Marielle have done immense justice to their roles.However,it is really a pity that nothing much is known about Dutch actress Sandra Majani who shines throughout the film.Her sensual performance is extraordinary as it helps this film to be enjoyed only for its visual erotic undercurrents.
The Night of the Iguana
(1964)
American cinema maestro John Huston directs a brilliant film which questions the importance of doubt,faith, hopelessness and moral values in a man's life !!!!
25 May 2010
There is something really enigmatic and magical about American film "The night of the Iguana" as it captures the raw beauty of Mexico as a preferred destination for pleasure seeking American tourists.It is one of those acclaimed films directed by renowned American director John Huston which succeeds at almost all levels.It is quite a pleasure to watch such a mature,serious film full of intellect and wit based on a humanist play by acclaimed American playwright Tennessee Williams.This film has its own balanced share of comedy and drama as everything in it is a remarkable ode to human judgment."The night of the Iguana" is able to strike a chord in viewers' minds as it has been transformed into a great character study thanks to amazing acting performances by famous actors Richard Burton,Ava Gardner and Deborah Kerr.How can a moody man retain his sanity in an environment full of doubts and passion seems to be this film's core issue.It is an extremely complex issue for both men and women who have to deal with it using their limited resources.Both men and animals need to be freed from shackles to act and think freely appears to be this film's humane message.
Les grands ducs
(1996)
Legendary French director Patrice Leconte directs an outstanding comedy about mad, mad world of theater !!!!
25 May 2010
It is a pity that French press has always shown a kind of step brotherly treatment towards Patrice Leconte.There are not many cinema admirers who know that Patrice Leconte directed "Les Bronzés",an important commercial success in the history of French cinema.For French media,Patrice Leconte is a different kind of director as they don't consider him as an auteur in the strict sense of the word neither a popular cinema director.This is one of the reasons why his film "Les Grands Ducs" was not able to garner critical success upon its initial release in 1996.A good news for admirers of comedy films is that DVD release of "Les Grands Ducs" has given a new lease of life to Patrice Leconte and many other directors who have been unjustly poorly judged by press in France."Les Grands Ducs" is one of the best examples of filmed theater.Its director Patrice Leconte defends the cause of those innumerable talented actors who are forced to act in small roles which are badly paid.His film is a proof of the fact that art of theater is very much alive in France despite various economic upheavals which have cast their shadows on French culture.Patrice Leconte is really at ease when he directs his actors with such accurate precision that they make theater watching a pleasant visual experience.He has been able to elicit beautiful performances from experienced French actors Jean Rochefort,Philippe Noiret and Jean Pierre Marielle.These three giant figures of French cinema tell us what it takes to be "a Cachetonneur !".
Madame Bovary
(1949)
Famous American director Vincente Minelli makes a very humble version of Gustave Flaubert's eternal classic Madame Bovary !!!!
24 May 2010
It is an undeniable fact that French writer Gustave Flaubert's classic "Madame Bovary" is very much a French work of art.This is the reason why acclaimed French directors Jean Renoir and Claude Chabrol have filmed their own versions of this classic tale which not only focuses on adultery but also gives a very vivid and accurate description of peasant life during eighteenth century France.However, American director Vincente Minelli's version is very much different from these Gallic versions as it is quite down to earth with an elusive American touch to it.This is something which makes it very much universal in its appeal and reach.It is really pure joy to see acclaimed American actors Ms. Jennifer Jones and Mr.Van Heflin playing their main roles as Emma Bovary and Charles Bovary.However,James Mason can be touted as this film's absolute real star for his marvelous performance as French writer Gustave Flaubert.It is he who carries the film on his shoulders by making viewers empathize with Emma Bovary's hapless plight.He is one of the primary keys to suggest that his work "Madame Bovary" is a work of our modern times to know how one should view male/female relationships especially relationships which are the cornerstone of all married people's relationships.
Blame It on Rio
(1984)
Blame it on Rio or how Stanley Donen and Michael Caine make irresponsible behavior legitimate !!!
7 May 2010
All film fans must question the usage of names of famous cities as titles of films which have been controversial due to their explicit sexual content.Film fans can cite examples of films like "Last tango in Paris" and "Blame it on Rio".One can wonder what have reputed cities got to do with films wherein characters have indulged in highly irresponsible behavior.Veteran American director Stanley Donen's film "Blame it on Rio" is one of those rare films which legitimizes irresponsible behavior.It is a mystery that it has been classified as a romantic comedy.This must come as a shock to those fans who consider it as a drama film exploring somewhat taboo themes involving bizarre characters who make it a point to outshine each other over matters related to unfaithfulness and sexual misconduct.Apart from Brazilian city Rio De Janeiro,British actor Michael Caine in two different yet fascinating avatars is this film's major attraction.He is good as a narrator but somewhat dorky as an actor.This is fine for critics but would not deter interested daddies to enjoy this film with their nubile daughters.May be they would learn a thing or two from "Blame it on Rio".
When the Sea Rises
(2004)
French actress Yolande Moreau directs a charming romantic tale featuring common people.
4 May 2010
In French cinema,Yolande Moreau and Josiane Balasko share a very special status.They are an integral part of a rare breed of talented actresses who have also taken up film direction to broaden their artistic capabilities.In this manner it can be stated that there are a lot of similarities between Yolande Moreau and Josiane Balasko. However,there are also many differences in their style and treatment of innovative ideas.Josiane Balasko has made some quirky films which have a dream like quality to them.Yolande Moreau seems to be taking the same path with her own wisdom.Quand La Mer Monte has its fair share of happy moments but a lonely mother meeting an innocent loser type material is not at all new for French cinema.However,it is the presentation of this film which is quite unique.We also get to see many talented Belgian cinema actors such as Olivier Gourmet and Bouli Lanners.This is what makes Yolande Moreau an endearing character.This is a film which has been set in northern France,an area considered as backward by people from South France.The film is charming but it has its own annoyances too.By the time viewers are halfway through the film they are able to correctly guess that it would end with a sad event.This is the only major drawback of this deeply personal film as it is strictly for those cinema fans who would like to watch Théâtre Filmé/filmed theater.
The Caiman
(2006)
Oddball Italian cinema author Nanni Moretti directs a brilliant political satire about equally eccentric Italian clod Silvio Berlusconi.
30 April 2010
A fictional film within a real film is the nicest way of finding out more about actors and directors as it demonstrates mechanisms which viewers can use to ascertain what goes into a director's mind.Although set in the milieu of show business and Machiavelian world of Italian judicial system,it is heartening to note that Italian film "Il Caimano" does not eschew an honest portrayal of family life.It is different in content and style from American/British films as not many films have made in Italy which have lampooned famous Italian political figures.This is the reason why American films about American presidents are appreciated not only in USA but all over the world."Il Caimano" also works as an effective satire and a good work of entertainment.This is why it has been labeled as one of the most accessible Nanni Moretti films both by critics as well as by cinema audiences.This is a film which reinforces audiences' belief in what a good cinema should aspire to be.This is one of the main reasons why it has to be branded as one of the most influential films made by eccentric Italian actor/director Nanni Moretti.Il Caimano is not a political film per Se but a modest film about a famous Italian political figure whose unethical decisions and bizarre behavior has brought a lot of disrepute to Italian people. Nanni Moretti succeeds nicely in retaining film d'auteur status for this film.Nanni Moretti as an actor is equally effective as he does appropriate justice to his role.Il Caimano is a great film which gives a clear idea of what has been happening in Italy to admirers of Italy wherever they might be.
Didier
(1997)
French actor Alain Chabat directs an inventive film about a lascivious cur !!
30 April 2010
Master of suspense Alfred Hitchcock once confessed that he had never said that all actors are cattle.He said that all actors should be treated like cattle.By directing a rib tickling comedy film "Didier", French comedian/director Alain Chabat also seemed to suggest that all actors are nothing but dogs.He has his own reasons to have made this satirical film as he bagged its most important role of a manly dog which is more intelligent than other human beings.Didier is not at all a film for kids.It is a film for those adults who behave like kids as their love for football and animals especially dogs have made this film a big success.Most of the people who have a solid knowledge of French cinema know that Alain Chabat is a good comic actor but nobody had imagined that he would go on to undertake a serious task of directing fellow actors.One of the most talented French actors Jean Pierre Bacri is largely known for his challenging roles in serious films nevertheless he has delivered a fine performance in Didier.This is a film for your family if you are in a position to tolerate its slightly offhand silly jokes about female anatomy.
Breath
(2007)
South Korean cinema author Kim Ki Duk makes his pro-feminine stance evident in Soom/Breath.
28 April 2010
South Korean author Kim Ki Duk is famous for the manner in which he takes an obscure idea to weave a convincing story around it.He is so good at his craft that even highly improbable ideas are transformed into remarkably good films which not only provide wholesome entertain but also make potent cultural statements about South Korean society.By making such socially relevant films,he reveals what kind of people South Koreans are.This is also the case with Kim Ki Duk's film Soom/Breath.It is a different matter if people start to take to heart the behavior of South Korean people based on his films.This is a film where viewers get to see a frustrated wife wearing her heart on her sleeve.After critically acclaimed "Bin Jip",this is the second film by Kim Ki Duk which talks about a neglected wife with a highly unusual end.A positive thing about this film is that despite initial differences matters are sorted amicably between a bickering couple.Tit for tat seems to be the film's message as Kim Ki Duk suggests that if a man cheats his wife, there are high chances that she would also do the same.
Time
(2006)
South Korean cinema author Kim Ki Duk makes an honest attempt to ascertain why people get bored in relationships.
28 April 2010
Kim Ki Duk's film Shigan/Time is about the concept of beauty which differs from person to person.He has built his film around a couple of young,violent lovers whose whimsical behavior reveal hotheadedness prevailing in South Korean society.Much of the film tries to find out why people especially youngsters start to get bored in relationships ? Although Shigan/Time concentrates its energies by depicting various procedures used to beautify ordinary looking people,it loses no time to convey that real beauty lies in one's heart.We get a clear message that inner beauty is important than a person's external appearance.Kim Ki Duk also suggests that boredom is not entirely a curious phenomenon related to affluent nations as this malaise of western world has already started to rear its ugly head in new developed nations too such as South Korea.It is a pity that not much is known about Kim Di Duk's motivation for making such an inspirational film.However,one can hazard a fortuitous guess that Kim Di Duk made this film due to an old incident of his reckless wild life when he was rejected by some girl.
Under the Bombs
(2007)
Director Philippe Aractingi shot this film during war.
28 April 2010
It is not possible for human beings to show same emotions on all occasions.In life there are moments when drama becomes comedy.This is exactly what happens in French film "Sous Les Bombes" /Under the bombs. This is a comedy based on richness of human experiences during times of war when people try not to lose their heads over small matters.This is a film which has adopted a convenient road movie format to communicate its message of peace and harmony.It is precisely due to this format that this film's two main characters are able to unwind and reveal their true nature.Director Philippe Aractingi has decided to get his film made during actual times of war.This gives a lot of authenticity to this film. It is due to such a tough yet necessary decision that we get to comprehend atrocities of war.Actors Elham Abbas and Iman Affara play their leading roles with great conviction.To conclude, we can state that "Sous Les Bombes" is a good film but it has its fair share of TV film aesthetics. This is the only drawback of this film.
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