Monday 7 August 2023

EXTRACTION 2 sees Chris Hemsworth reprise his role as Tyler Rake. The tough guy mercenary and his squad go on another risky mission: freeing a vicious gangster's imprisoned family.

 Extraction 2

This isn't just any regular movie review. Oh no, it's a brutally honest, humor-infused rendezvous through the labyrinthine plot (or lack thereof) of Extraction 2. Buckle up, folks, because this is going to be a crazy ride.

Extraction 2 has Spectacular Action With No Story!

I mean, come on, who are we kidding? The title tells us what we should expect (hint: nothing beyond intense action). It's like ordering a pizza and getting only the crust but no toppings.
But let's dive deeper into this lack of story and explore the implications. In a world where narratives drive our entertainment, Extraction 2 dares to defy conventions. It challenges the essence of storytelling, asking us to question our expectations and embrace the raw power of visceral action.

Despite this almost comical lack of a story, the action sequences rival the likes of a Marvel or a Bond movie. It's like they took all the punches, gunshots, and explosions cut from other films and shoved them into Extraction 2. Every frame bursts with adrenaline, leaving you breathless and on the edge of your seat.

But let's not overlook the underlying brilliance of this mind-boggling absence of narrative. Extraction 2 creates a blank canvas for the action to take centre stage by stripping away the complexities of plot and character development. The action was spectacular, yes, but did it make sense? About as much as buying a ticket for a cruise ship only to discover it's a submarine. It turns out to be an underwater adventure. That wasn't what you signed up for, but hey, you're already on board!
And just like that unexpected underwater adventure, Extraction 2 takes you on a wild ride through a maze of heart-pounding sequences that defy logic and reason. It's a rollercoaster of pure adrenaline, where the only rule is to hold on tight and let the action wash over you.

Chris Needs to Work on Acting Skills

Oh, Chris! Our hapless hero. I have a theory that the original script involved Chris Hemsworth playing an emotionless robot. However, somewhere down the line, they forgot to mention that he was supposed to be human.

His acting skills actually put the 'wood' in Hemsworth - stiff as a log and just as expressive. If you ever wanted to see Thor without his hammer, charm, or charisma, here you go!

But let's give credit where credit's due. Nobody, and I mean nobody, could make repeatedly walking into gunfire and achieving absolutely nothing look so... well, pointless.
As the camera pans across the set, we can't help but notice the lack of life in Chris's eyes. It's as if he's lost in a perpetual daydream, wholly disconnected from the world around him. Perhaps he's envisioning a future where he can finally master the art of emoting.

Every line he delivers feels forced and unnatural as if he's reading from a teleprompter for the first time. It's almost comical how he struggles to convey even the simplest emotions. One can't help but wonder if he attended the Nicolas Cage School of Overacting. At times I believe he has watched Rocky 4 too many times, and you get a glimpse of it here.

But remember the action scenes where Chris truly shines in his mediocrity. With each gunshot and explosion, he valiantly charges into danger, only to achieve absolutely nothing. It's almost poetic how he makes even the most intense action sequences feel utterly pointless.

As the film progresses, I root for Chris, not because of his acting prowess, but because I desperately hope to witness a breakthrough moment. We yearn for the day when he finally discovers the key to unlocking his emotions and delivering a performance that will leave me speechless.

Until then, I can only marvel at Chris Hemsworth's ability to consistently deliver a performance that falls flat. 

Relax, Russians Aren't That Bad

The ‘Russians are the bad guys’ trope in Hollywood is as outdated as high-waist bell-bottom trousers. Oh, Hollywood! Where’s your creativity? 

The funny part is that Russian villains in this film have an almost supernatural ability to miss all their shots. You could stand still in the middle of a FIFA football stadium, and they'd still manage to miss. It's like the Bullets had a restraining order against Hemsworth!

If the Russians were really this ineffective, then I guess we've nothing to worry about. I mean, if they can't manage to hit a single man who’s perpetually in their line of sight, global security’s pretty much sorted, right?

Why Extraction 2 is a Funny Movie With Foolish Action Sequences?

There's an undeniable talent for crafting elegant nonsense, which Extraction 2 has in spades. The action sequences are high-octane yet absurdly hilarious.

At one point, Chris was hanging from a skyscraper and took a bullet in his hand to save Golshifteh Farahani, who was dangling from the same place. Guess what? In the next frame, he was applying an antiseptic and was fit to take a shot. There's a suspension of disbelief, and then there's shamelessly catapulting it into another dimension.

All said Extraction 2 is less of a movie and more of a cinematic roller coaster, a non-stop thrill ride of senseless, albeit entertaining, action. If you leave your common sense at the door and bask in the flurry of fists, bullets, and random jumping-off-cliff scenes, it's fun.



Image Courtesy: Google 

Friday 14 July 2023

Infinite is billed as a sci-fi thriller, but it turns out to be a disappointment with an amazing cast, exciting visual arts, and no story.

 Infinite

Have you seen a movie that made you angry? You feel so disgusted that you start crying in rage. I am sure you have had your share of the list, while Infinite is recently added to mine. That's right, we're diving headfirst into the Infinite enigma. So, brace yourselves, folks, because I have some strong opinions to share!

Why Infinite Is a Stupid Movie?

Alright, let's address the "elephant in the theatre" immediately. Infinite falls flat in the brainpower department. It's like they took all the logic and rationality of a goldfish and decided to base an entire movie on it. I mean, come on, folks! I'm all for suspending disbelief, but this movie takes it to a new level of ridiculousness. It's like watching a monkey try to solve a Rubik's Cube - you know it won't end well.
But let's dig deeper into why Infinite is such a disappointment. One of the main issues is that the makers don't understand "reincarnation". Yup, you read it right. This movie is based on the "Hindu" principle of reincarnation. The makers had some vague ideas and decided to make a movie hoping that the theme would stick and they would come up with sequels.
 
Truth is, they are fools and would be better off talking to some expert before exploring the idea of making a movie. I won't reveal much, but trust me, the entire story is so twisted you feel amazed by the stupidity.  
The second reason is the need for more character development. We are introduced to many characters who seem to have no purpose but to fill the screen. Their motivations are unclear, their actions are inconsistent, and it's hard to feel any connection to them. It's as if the writers threw random ideas into a blender and hoped for the best.  
Furthermore, the plot holes in Infinite are so vast and numerous that they could swallow an entire city. The writers didn't bother to think through the story's logic, resulting in twists and turns that make no sense. Characters make decisions that defy all reason, and events unfold in a way that leaves the audience confused. It's as if the filmmakers were more interested in creating flashy visuals than crafting a coherent narrative.

One Bright Spot

Let's talk about the special effects in Infinite. While they may be visually stunning at times, they often feel like a distraction from the lacklustre story. It's as if the filmmakers relied on flashy explosions and CGI to compensate for the weak plot and underdeveloped characters. Sure, the action sequences may be thrilling at the moment. Still, they ultimately feel hollow and devoid of any real substance.

Should Mark Wahlberg Be More Selective?

Now, I must address the green room elephant - Mark Wahlberg. What were you thinking, my guy? Infinite reminds me of another Mark movie, "The Great Wall". I respect your career choices, but Infinite, like the other one, feels like a step in the wrong direction. Is it really too much to ask Wahlberg to pick movies with a tad more substance? Maybe something that doesn't leave us scratching our heads and wondering if he lost a bet or something. Come on, Mark, you're better than this!

Why Infinite Is a Total Time Waste?

Picture this: you're sitting in a dark movie theatre, popcorn in hand, ready to be whisked away into a world of excitement and wonder. But instead, you find yourself transported into the never-ending abyss of boredom with Infinite. It's like watching paint dry, but somehow even more tedious. 
 
With Infinite, there are moments where you think the story might actually take off, but nope - it crashes and burns like a bird that forgot how to fly. And don't even get me started on the dialogue. It's as if the scriptwriter dropped their thesaurus and settled for the first words that came to mind. Talk about a snoozefest!
 
I can delve deeper into why Infinite is such a time waste, but letting it off. 
In conclusion, Infinite is a total time waste for anyone seeking an engaging and thrilling cinematic experience. Its lacklustre plot, one-dimensional characters, uninspired visuals, and lacklustre performances make it a forgettable and tedious watch. Save yourself the agony and choose a different movie to spend your time on.


Why I Cried Watching Infinite?

Okay, okay, I know what you're thinking. How on earth could anyone shed a single tear while watching Infinite? Believe me, I'm just as surprised as you are. But hear me out - it wasn't tears of joy or sadness. Nope, it was tears of sheer frustration!
Now, I'm not one to judge people's tastes, but when a movie drags you through its silly, predictable plot twists and turns for an eternity, it starts to chip away at your soul. But hey, maybe that's just me. Perhaps you'll watch Infinite and be swept away by its nonsensical charm. Who am I to rain on your parade? All I can say is, don't say I didn't warn you!


Images Courtesy: Google

Tuesday 11 July 2023

Two British acting titans have teamed up to amaze audiences in The Good Liar, a thriller about filthy secrets and shady intentions.

 A Good Liar

Who doesn't vouch for the acting credentials of Helen Mirrer? The seductive lady charmed young hearts with her performances in films such as Body of Work or The Cook, The Thief, His Wife & Her Lover, and many others. The actress can simply dazzle the audience with her talent in any part, and one such film is "A Good Liar".
Given the choice between Enola Homes and A Good Liar on Saturday night, I chose the former. The decision was self-evident. My favoured pick was a film with a detective theme, the promise of action (violence), and the expectation of a thriller that would refresh my senses. However, 30 minutes into the film, I realized my error. I won't go into greater detail or review it because it was simply not my cup of tea; therefore, I gave up halfway through.
 
"A Good Liar" was the next one on the list. A terrific decision, and I'm about to explain. Why?
 
Before I go any further, I must commend the charismatic Ian McKellen on his amazing performance. But, of course, we're all familiar with his work, which, in my opinion, is a Holy Grail for aspiring actors. And he made the film truly memorable. However, if you're wondering why I didn't include his name and work in the same sentence as Helen. Because I am a feminist, and this is my only support for "Feminism" (and it ends here)😀
Now, enough of a pep talk; let's return to the topic. So buckle up, amigos and get ready for a wild ride as we unravel the secrets of 'A Good Liar'!

Brief Synopsis of the Movie

A complicated web of deception and deceit lies at the heart of "A Good Liar." The film follows the lives of seasoned con artist Roy Courtnay, played by the charismatic Ian McKellen, and his prey, the affluent widow Betty McLeish, played by the ever-talented Helen Mirren. So, prepare yourself to be enthralled from the first scene!
 
Roy Courtnay, a charming conman with a lifetime of experience, sets his sights on Betty McLeish, a retired "Oxford" teacher who appears to be the ideal victim. What begins as a basic case of deception quickly escalates into a cat-and-mouse game that will keep you on the edge of your seat. 
As the plot thickens, we meet a cast of supporting characters that bring depth and complexity to the drama. Vincent, Roy's longtime associate, is performed by the outstanding Jim Carter. His unshakable devotion to Roy gives a sense of camaraderie to the pandemonium. We also meet Betty's grandson, Stephen, who is played by Russell Tovey. Stephen's scepticism about Roy's motives adds tension and raises the stakes. 
  
The film puts us on an emotional rollercoaster as we see the lengths Roy will go to manipulate Betty. His web of lies becomes increasingly sophisticated as he forges documents and fabricates elaborate backstories. We are forced to question our capacity to tell the difference between fact and fiction with each twist and turn.  
McKellen and Mirren play their roles in a compelling and terrifying way. Roy and Betty's power dynamics continually shift, leaving me wondering who has the upper hand. 

The Intriguing Premise

 The movie immerses us in the world of Roy and Betty, exploring the depths of their characters and the motives that drive them. As Roy's schemes become more audacious, Betty's intentions remain mysterious. Is she a victim or a fellow mastermind? I question every action and word, eagerly awaiting the next revelation. 

Plot Twists and Turns                                        

'A Good Liar' is a film that challenges our perceptions and keeps us on the edge of our seats until the very end. Prepare to be enthralled by the intricate plot, stellar performances, and constant unease. This movie will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about trust and deceit. 
If you thought you had this movie figured out, think again! Just when you feel you have unravelled the mystery, another layer of deception is unveiled. This movie kept me guessing until the end, a testament to its brilliant storytelling.

Final Touches 
Are you in the mood for a mind-boggling thriller that will keep you guessing until the end? Look no further than 'A Good Liar,' a gripping tale of deception and betrayal. So gather your popcorn, turn off the lights, and embark on a journey filled with deception, betrayal, and surprising revelations. You won't want to miss this!


Image Courtesy: Google

Tuesday 4 July 2023

River pollution is a problem in India, and experts warn that it is generating a lethal catastrophe that jeopardises the country's health and development.

 Why Indian Rivers Are Dirty And Toxic?

The Indian rivers once had a spiritual significance. River banks were also popular for picnics and family outings. It didn't escape Bollywood's attention and facilitated the fantasy of youths towards rivers. 
There are several films with themes around Indian rivers in which performers take joy in bathing or singing. A generation has grown up romanticizing rivers. However, things aren’t that rosy now. 
 
Within a short time, rivers in India became a joke. Rivers are progressively withering and have turned into a sea of waste, unlike in the past when they were venerated and depicted in splendour. In this post, I will highlight a few factors primarily to blame for the current state of affairs, so buckle up.  

 Exploring the Reasons Why Indian Rivers Are Dirty

As I walked along the banks of the river, I couldn't help but notice the putrid smell emanating from the water. The once crystal-clear river was now murky and filled with debris. I couldn't help but wonder why Indian rivers were so dirty and toxic. Our rivers are in trouble, from the Ganges to the Yamuna and even small tributaries. And the effects of water pollution don't end there; they can be felt in every corner of India. 
 
Post-Independence Industrialization
India's post-independence period, which began in 1947, saw tremendous economic growth, industrialization, and a boost in agricultural production. The government invested heavily in infrastructure, including dams, canals, and barrages
 
However, this growth came at a high cost, leading to an alarming increase in water pollution. The problem has only persisted with time. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), almost 37,000 million litres per day (MLD) of untreated sewage water runs into rivers across the country. Today, the rivers in India are among the most polluted in the world, with high levels of toxic chemicals, sewage, and industrial waste.

Rapid Population Growth and Urbanization
Urbanization has been a double-edged sword for India. While it has brought about economic growth and development, it has also resulted in severe environmental degradation, particularly in river pollution. India is rapidly urbanizing, with a population set to surpass 1.5 billion by 2030
 
The rapid population growth in urban areas has put a tremendous strain on the already limited resources of the cities. The demand for water supply and sewage management has far exceeded the capacity of the cities to provide these basic amenities. Consequently, many untreated sewage and industrial effluent enter the rivers. 
Inadequate Waste Management Systems
Waste management remains a systemic issue in India. The majority of urban areas still need efficient waste management systems. Municipal solid waste management is still nascent, with minimal waste segregation. It has led to massive open dumpsites, causing the leaching of toxins into the soil and groundwater, which eventually ends up contaminating the rivers. As per some reports, nearly 80% of Indian water is severely polluted, and the condition is horrifying in urban areas. 

Encroachments and Riverbank Construction
Encroachments along the riverbanks and illegal constructions seriously threaten the river's ecosystem. These constructions and encroachments disrupt the river's natural flow, leading to erosion of the riverbanks and altering the river's course. Additionally, the lack of buffer zones causes the sedimentation of the river's bed, compromising the river's self-cleansing capacity. 

Agricultural Practices
Agricultural practices are another significant source of river pollution. Farmers use an enormous amount of chemical fertilizers and pesticides without adequate precautions. Excessive use of these elements leads to runoff into the rivers and other water bodies, leading to toxicity. The buildup of nutrients results in eutrophication
 
Lack of awareness among the general public and insufficient government actions to curb pollution are also contributing factors. 

Historically, rivers in India were seen as a symbol of purity and prosperity. The degradation of these holy rivers is a symptom of India's rapid growth and lack of environmental awareness. 
 
As I concluded my walk along the river, I couldn't help but feel a sense of despair. The situation seemed bleak, and it was evident that drastic measures were the need of the hour. The government, industries, and the public must unite to make a concerted effort to clean up the rivers and prevent further pollution. Today, Indian rivers are in disastrous condition. Our moral responsibility is to clean them up, restore their lost radiance, and allow actors to return to the rivers as they once were.


Image Courtesy: Google Images