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Jurassic World : Fallen Kingdom (2018)

It’s tricky to make the 2nd instalment for a Trilogy, without it seeming like a bridge. This film, though relying vaguely on the back story of Jurassic World, stands confidently on its own while engaging the audience.

It’s a step forward in the area of genetic engineering, and sets up a simplistic plot to get the dinosaurs off the island. What ensues is some nurturing, some comedy, and some dare-devil acts never attempted before.

The result? Some decent twists and turns while keeping the human quotient intact. We feel for the survival and extinction of the species in an empathetic light.

3/5

Designated Survivor (2016-2018)

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Watching Kiefer Sutherland as President is perhaps the most comforting thing keeping in mind the current administration. He plays a strong and honest character, in the face of Washington politics and scheming power struggles.

A taut political thriller which gives us glimpses of how the White House would deal with any and everything, ranging from conspiracies, to war, to Tsunamis and of course, a loss of government.

Created by David Guggenheim, the show boasts a stellar cast, who are well written in a fast moving plot, a lot happens in every 43 minute episode. Sadly ABC isn’t renewing it for its third season, but it’s one of the most engaging shows which deserves to go on.

3.5/5

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Oceans 8 (2018)

Director Gary Ross achieved a great balancing act giving these 8 talents good characters and effective stories.

Sandra Bullock, Cate Blanchett, Anne Hathaway, Rihana, Helena Bonham Carter, Awkwafina, Sarah Paulson and Mindy Kaling make a stunning set of criminals!

You never come in between a girl and her diamonds. And when it’s 8 women and a heist of precious and regalia jewellery, you just watch the action and strategy unfold!

3/5

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The Good Place (2016-2017)

What a twisted tale of how good and bad we are when we are alive gets us into a good or bad place in the after-life. Quirky characters, a thought provoking premise (many ways we can be bad, which we may not know about, watch it to know more), all this wrapped in subtle comedy! Super fun! Can’t wait for season 3!

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Veere di wedding (2018)

Director Shashanka Ghosh has presented a fun filled film of four friends, who are there for each other through thick and thin.

The backdrop of course, was a wedding, which reveals many realities of Delhi and the prejudices and workings of typical Indian society. There are a few emotional moments, many laugh out loud scenes and nice songs which make the two hour length perfect for the content.

Played well by Kareena Kapoor, Sonam Kapoor, Swara Bhaskar and Shikha Talsania (who was my favourite), they portray their individual personalities fully, showing the audience how people can be their authentic selves, how friends can let their hair down with each other and share intimate details. A stellar supporting cast adds the required comic and dramatic touch to the proceedings.

A must watch at a time when we need to chill and not take everything seriously.

3/5

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Origin (2017)

Dan Brown takes us on a rich architectural and artistic journey, detailing Spain’s history and heritage, as his protagonist Robert Langdon is on a mission to help a friend. The difference this time is the essence of the mission and what it entails. There are two important questions and we get fitting answers for both. It wasn’t like Inferno which took months to read, I finished it in three days because I got hooked to the premise. This has been written with clear and simple markers, making it easier to adapt to a film. An interesting read.

3/5

Raazi (2018)

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Rarely do you have a taut thriller which doesn’t make any grand statements, but builds drama slowly, without fanfare.

The beauty of this film is how director Meghna Gulzar hasn’t once shown a bias or chosen sides. You see the plot unfold in two households, both are nice and fair with one thing in common, their love for their country. It’s so balanced that you feel for the other without thinking or overprocessing.

Alia Bhatt has taken on a difficult role, bringing out nuances which we haven’t seen yet in her diverse acting range. Her youth is her biggest strength, as she has more time to develop and explore her acting prowess.

Vicky Kaushal plays an understanding sensitive man, ably supported by a stellar cast, all of whom do their part well, without resorting to histrionics.

You walk away from the film strangely diminished, happy for the outcome but sad for the many unsung heroes.

A worthy watch.

3.5/5

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Toilet : Ek Prem Katha (2017)

The repeated use of certain words make the experience slightly cringe worthy, but it is a story that needed to be told. So many nuances of what people face while they do their daily business make you wonder how much we take for granted. The good thing was that they showed all points of view, the government, the people, the society and how it all affects having a toilet. Bhumi plays a girl who knows the need of the hour and is willing to go every mile to achieve it. Akshay is his usual dependable self, rattling off dialogues which range from a shrug response to closing your eyes in shock.

3/5

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Shubh Mangal Saavdhan (2017)

A very ‘sensitive’ topic which was handled well, barring one scene. The beauty here was the woman’s point of view, which is rarely shown. Bhumi plays the clear and focused girl who is supportive and understanding of her fiancé Ayushmann’s predicament. The parents caricatures represent the many views of society. A difficult concept which was made entertaining.

2.5/5

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365 sunsets in Melbourne

I don’t question destiny anymore. Today marks one year of my move to Melbourne, Australia, a gorgeous city in a beautiful country which was always supposed to be home, just not at the the time I thought was right.

Friends gave me the confidence and comfort to move to Mumbai and Melbourne was no different. Thanks to the St. Kilda boys for making the city such a warm and wonderful home!

As I look back on the flight out from Mumbai one year ago I remember all the mixed feelings I had, but I knew I would carry it with me in my heart, just as I did Dubai. As the world grows smaller with social media and frequent flying, it isn’t long till I see my loved ones in both India and UAE, as I add more to the list of people to grow old with!

Thank you to the universe for listening to me and having my back, and for always providing! How does it get any better than this?