Bajirao Mastani- Movie Trailer Review by Shoby

Bajirao Mastani- Movie Trailer Review by Shoby

Trailers are almost the very first look of the movie, which prepares the audience to expect what actually they are going to experience in cinema.  It is believed that trailer should not be as short as people does not get an idea about what really would be the content of the movie and it should not also be as long as after watching it, someone thinks look I have tasted all the movie. Nothing else is left behind, so why should I watch it in cinema now.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali (the father of artistic cinema) the man behind cult classics is famous for presenting fascinating trailers for his movies. People still cherish a blind girl (Rani) hitting her white stick on the floor and then just sensing the snowfall in the trailer of Black. They still praise Shahrukh Khan uttering the epic word "Paro" in Devdas. it still brings a smile to their faces, when they think about Hrithik Roshan (a quadriplegic patient) sitting on his wheelchair and giving a smile, full of sorrow after almost failing in thrashing a fly away from him in the trailer of guzaarish and who can forget the grand entry of Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone in his first 100 crore grabber Raam-Leela.

After the extended teaser and few songs, November 2015 saw the launch of the trailer of year's most awaited magnum opus Bajirao Mastani. Let’s see, what does it has in it for the audience.

Grand sets, sword fights, vibrant colors, intense bg score, pleasantly attractive lightings, colorful ambience, graceful moves, make-believe war sequences. These are a few highlights of the trailer. One thing that Bhansali sb has done this time in the trailer is, he just kept minimal of dialogues embedded in the trailer and this strategy has worked wonders to me. It literally asks for more. All the actors are looking stunning. ranveer Singh has a very intense look of a warrior. Deepika is looking graceful and so does Priyanka.

Moment u think Sanjay Leela Bhansali has given his best and nothing more to be done is left, he shocks you and sprinkles yet another spell of more magic. If anything deserves to be seen in cinema. It is only the magic of Bhansali sb who is surely a winner when it comes to make the big scale quality cinema. One dialogue at the end of the tariler is sure to give enough goose bumps. Humare dil aik sath dharakte hain mastani. Or aik sath ruktey bhi hain. One expects a grand cinematic affair altogether after watching this grandest trailer and I really hope Bajirao Mastani turns out to be the best from the house.

Kashaaf Iqbal's Mus'haf- Novel Review by Shoby

Kashaaf Iqbal is now a known name in the world of monthly digests. He is one of those very few male writers, who are continually striving hard to pave the ways to get a name for themselves, as currently we do not have much male writers in the digest world and this is undoubtedly in rule by females. After Zulekha, Mohabbat Rooh Ki Ghiza Hai, Mus’haf is his third attempt, which is published in a monthly digest.

First thing first, do not confuse this Mus’haf with the long novel by Nimra Ahmed, which is one of the most beautiful pieces of current Urdu literature. Nimra Ahmed wrote a classic with an excellent theme behind it and top notch characterization amalgamated with bang on incidents and captivating dialogues. This Mus’haf has nothing to do with later one and is an altogether a unique novel on its own, be it theme or execution.

Coming back towards Kashaaf’s Mus’haf, it is a story revolving around two strangers, who happen to meet by an incident and fell in love, however they (almost) sacrifice their love and do not reveal it in front of each other for a reasons better to be known to themselves.

What I actually liked about kashaaf’s Mus’haf was the usage of some beautiful words and phrases. Check the scene, where Mus’haf (the male protagonist) asks Rania “Yeh ansoo apney ander sanbhal kar rakho... jab main wapis ao ga, tab yeh gham ke ansoo khushi ke darya mein baha dena” on their first departure and when he says “Insaniyat ka rishta”, when Ayat asked him tumhara mujh se kiya rishta hai. Very well written lines indeed and it really deserves applaud.

In one scene, when Mus’haf gives himself some logical reasoning of Why to live with Ayat and say Acha khana peena or acha ghar thing to himself is yet another excellent line which truly depicts the real thought of a common man. Brilliant work Kashaaf.

Some short comings of the novel. At times, it gives you a feeling that you are reading a travel itinerary and looks a bit mechanical, when Kashaaf drags you in the detailing of the locations. Same was also felt in his earlier novels and to me (as a reader) it is his weakness that the technical details (which at times include geographical and demographical details of the spots) overshadow the exact essence of the story.

At some points, Kashaaf has over exaggerated the things. Like when Mus’haf says, “As I am an engineer, I knew it was Lamborghini. (I reckon, it does not need to be an engineer to understand that the vehicle is Lamborghini and that too even after having a mere look at it. Then he used a word yaar (for Rania’s husband) which did not go well with the proceedings (as we are not at all supposed to use cheap words for depicting the happenings, especially when the protagonists are shown from some good background).

Overall, Mus’haf is a bit laid down, as if you are reading a story from the City of love and lights you always expect something much more intensive and greater in terms of scale and emotions. My best wishes are always with Kashaf and I believe, he will pay attention to what I humbly pointed out. 

Mohabbat Rooh Ki Ghiza Hai- Novel Review

After Zulekha, which  was very well conceived, expectations were very high from this young writer. Kashaaf Iqbal's second story, "Mohabbat Rooh Ki Ghiza Hai" (Love is the food for Soul) by its title, looks like a tale of timeless love. Lets analyze has he succeeded in his attempt this time.

MRKGH is a simple story revolving around two characters only. More of a tangible matter, it simply gives us an insight about how the protagonists fall in love and with almost not much action (read twists and turns) come together. There are no such romantic moments that make you go "Lets fall in love" mode. Premise is not at all convincing. Plot could have been much better. Certain dialogues looked so rotten and freshness was lacking in the whole proceedings.

I belive it has been edited too harshly, as it has really lost its real essence and authenticity. This version of MRKGH looks scattered and too ordinary. I still hope, Kashaaf has written a good piece but all of it wasted just because of this poor "editing".

Halla Gulla- Movie Review by Shoby

Halla Gulla- Movie Review by Shoby

3.5 Stars out of 5

With the advent of young blood, we can safely say that finally Lollywood is going on the right track. Not making any statement about the quality of products and just concentrating on the count, number of movies in recent times have been successful in getting attention of the public and ultimately doing good business at the box office. This phenomenon is resulting in the development of cinema culture in Pakistan and this will definitely enhance the confidence of the producers/ directors.

Coming to Halla Gulla which released this Eid ul Azha, it self-proclaimed itself to be Pakistan’s first ever solid entertainer. Were they successful in making it a real solid entertainer? Let’s analyze.

First thing first, it is a No Brain entertainer, which needs no Einstein to grasp the things. Do not expect anything else than entertainment, which comes in the form of situational comedy, dialogues, music, choreography and what not. Son of a don who leaves his father and uncles so that he may not walk on the same path of crime. A husband with two wives, who is trying his level best to save the secret of his dual marriages. A handful of characters that help the story move forward and all of them making a hell of Halla Gulla.

A nicely written script with a believable screen and excellent one liners/dialogues are the hallmarks of a good sit-com (situational comedy) and same are the factors present in Halla Gulla that tickle your bones right after every other minute. Believe me, you cannot stop laughing for these 2:30 hours odd proceedings. With the blend of some seasoned actors and fresh faces almost all the actors have given their best in terms of acting. To me, veteran TV Actor Ashraf Khan has come out as a winner beside the prime cast.

Music of the film is beautiful. With Sahir Ali bagga leading the team, he has composed some excellent melodies that runs smoothly with the proceedings. From soothing and melodious Saroor De (Sung by Rahat and Afshan) to energetic Thumka, Kamla and Halla Gulla, each track has its own feel and not even a single one of them looks like a filer one.

Costume designing is good and so does art direction & set designing. DOP and camera work is OK. Choreography is much better than many of the other Lollywood projects.

On the whole, it really offers what it promises and that is loads and loads of solid entertainment. Undoubtedly, it is one the best comedies ever came out of Lollywood. Credit goes to Kamran Akbar Khan for producing this gem of a flick. This one should not be missed, just to relax the mind. So leave the thinking portion of your brain at home and do watch Halla Gulla. It will refresh you for sure. 

All Is Well- Movie Review by Shoby

All Is Well- Movie Review by Shoby...

0.5 Stars out of 5...

Umesh Shuklwa disappoints by making this not at all funny comedy...

Brothers- Movie Review by Shoby

Brothers- Movie Review by Shoby

2 Stars out of 5

I have not watched Warriors but even then I was instantly up to the conclusion right after the first 15/20 minutes of the film. Brothers is infected with a very major disease, a mediocre script. Step brothers going head to head and fighting desperately to show that one is right and the other is wrong and at the end of the day, its like a happy sunny afternoon.

Akshay and Siddarth Malhotra are just OK in the roles. Jacqueline had a very minor part to play. Jackie Shroff was fantastic and much authentic in the portrayal of drunk father and a punished culprit.

Music is not up to the mark. The only good life for the film was beautifully choreographed action sequences. Just a time pass.

Zulekha- Novel Review by Shoby

Kashaaf Iqbal- I have come to know about him a few month ago. I tweeted about some novel and he replied me. So, that was the start of our online know how. Then I came to know about his very first novel, which was to be published in a digest soon. Obviously, I was a bit excited as always get whenever I read new writers.

Coming towards Zulekha- the first published story of Kashaaf. First thing first, we have to give a bit of the leverage to the writer, as this is his very first attempt in front of her. Zulekha is a story of pure love, a relationship that needs to be cherished by the society- Love between husband and wife.

With the progress of story, you will find it a very simple and relatable tale, with a strong social and religious message embedded within the plot. If we take it symbolically, everyone in this world is gathered by sin driven resources. And it at times, it becomes almost impossible to get rid of this phenomenon. Story depicts how our protagonist Aariz is fair and honest to his wife (although there Rukhsati is not taken place after Nikah) and avoids a sin by considering two things: 1) Fear of ALLAH 2) His love for his Wife Eeman.

Now some glitches of the story (I hope Kashaaf my friend will not mind). As a reader, it looked a bit clumsy and was giving a feel of pacing up quite high. May be a couple of more incidents were required to make it look more believable. Kashaaf has used a bit of the story of Hazrat Yousaf (asws) when He (asws) clarified that this was not His fault by showing the torn clothes from the back. Looking more realistically, Aariz could have said, you can verify from video recordings of CCTV cams (as presence of 24/7 CCTV cams is mandatory in a 7 star hotel). But again, its totally writer's choice, how to take the proceedings further.

Overall, it was a good read and I urge all of you to please read and buck up this new talent, as our modern literature needs fresh blood. Kashaaf, you have made me feel happy, as I enjoyed reading your Story and reviewing it.

Manjhi- Movie Review by Shoby

Manjhi- Movie Review by Shoby

3.25 Stars out of 5

Cinema is all about entertainment but what comes a surprise is when you get to see information that enhances motivation embroiled in thorough entertainment. Ketan Mehta is known for making some real Path Breaking cinema. From Maya Memsaab to Mangal Paandey, he has a habit of exploring diverse genres and providing films that leave an impact on the viewer. This time, he yet again attempted to bring a true anecdote to the celluloid.

Dashrath Manjhi- An unsung hero, who dug a mountain to explore a pathway in order to connect village Gehlore to other part of India. Now this subject was difficult to make, not only because it required to present a make-believe cinematic product but also to keep the entertainment factor in the right quantity, so that viewer may not get dragged or bored, due to the dryness of subject matter.

This film should be applauded for its top notch screenplay, which never allows you to turn your eyes away. Such a tight gripping script with pitch perfect dialogues, that has a favor of Behaari local lingo, which used to be spoken in 50s and 60s in Indian Behar.

The real hero of the movie is the great Nawaz uddin Siddiqui. This guy is more than a huge talent. Right after one another, he is continually making Indian cinema proud by giving his best shots in every other movie. After Kick, Badlapur, recently blockbuster Bajrangi Bhaijan, now he has nailed it in Manjhi. Not even a single frame, you will find him losing the grip from the character. A special mention is due for Radhika Apte too. She was almost pitch perfect in the role of Dhasrath's wife- Phaguniya.

Some sequences need to be mentioned particularly here. When Nawazuddin says to his daughter, how many times I have told you not to climb this mountain, what will I say to Phaguniya. His mud shot, where he along with Radhika Apte disappear in mud. When Dhasrtath's father say to Mukhiya, "Babua ka haath dukh jaey ga Malik, hum khud hi maar letey hain. The daffodil's shot, right after the dead of the wife of Dhasrath's friend. This is one film that I watched some of its scenes with moist eyes. What an emotional connect, Ketan has created with the audience.

Art direction is yet another USP of Ketan Mehta's products. He did it with great authenticity in Mangal Pandey and this time he has yet again done with utmost greatness. He has beautifully shown the village ambiance of 50s and 60s.

This time of subject does not need fabricated music and dance numbers. Background score was good and a couple of songs were used just to make the story progress further. Editing is crisp.

Overall, this film is not to be missed at any cost. Just respect for Nawazuddin for showing this great acting display. Shandaar... Zabardast.. Zindabad...

Moor- Movie Review by Shoby

Moor- Movie Review by Shoby

0.5 Stars out of 5...

Lollywood is going through the most critical phase. According to me, (you may agree or not), its make or break point for our cinema. A culture of cinema is grooming and after a long time, families have started enjoying theaters and recently we have seen packed houses for many Hollywood and Bollywood releases and even in some Pakistani movies like Waar, Wrong Number, Bin Roye. You make a good entertaining flick and people will surely come to watch your cinema. On contrary, there is no chance for you to survive. Similarly, if you keep on making good flicks, Lollywood will surely gain momentum and with the passage of time, will establish its image as a great industry. on the other hand, a couple of bad movies and people will definitely lose their faith on your cinema.

After this long intro, now let’s come to the point. Director Jamshed Mahmood (Jami) who enjoyed a status of (almost) an icon when it c comes to Pakistani music video industry. He worked with the best of Pakistani music industry artists and gave the industry many hits. Then he made his debut in Lollywood by making one of the most pathetic and senseless film of all times (Operation 021), which almost bombed in the box office.

A couple of year ago, he launched a teaser of Moor (Pashto word for mother). With breathtaking cinematography, it grabbed an instant notice. Trailer was launched few months back and 14 August 2015 saw the release of this much awaited flick, which turned out to be much more pathetic than his debut.

Moor has literally nothing to offer as far as entertaining cinema is concerned. Although, it has a message that has its roots in the heart of the country, as it is based on the decline of Pakistani Railway System, however this film lacks the basics of being a good attempt (leave the word good, it does not deserves to be called a film by the way).

With almost no script in the heart, three stories run parallel throughout the proceedings and till the very last scene, you still remain unaware of what the heck is going on. If you are not getting entertained by the ongoing, it becomes very hard to enjoy other technical aspects of cinema. Even some specular cinematography and camera work becomes boring and not that enjoyable if you cannot grasp the crux of the story.

Acting is good by the lead cast but once again, you cannot praise their acting, if they are not provided with the required standard of script and dialogues.

Apart from cinematography, I reckon only Strings have done full justice to their role, as music composer. A beautiful background that goes seamlessly beautiful with the proceedings.

To me, Moor is a sheer waste of cinematic resources at its fullest and this is one of the most regretful attempt in filmmaking as far as Lollywood is concerned. Save your money and above all your crucial time and do not watch Moor, even if someone else is sponsoring you a ticket.

Namaloom Afraad... Movie Review by Shoby

Namaloom Afraad... Movie Review by Shoby...

3 stars out of 5...

Pakistani film industry is going through a revival phase and new talent is doing quite a good hardwork to give new blood to the industry. They are experimenting with various ideas to give audience right dose of entertainment. Namaloom Afraad is one of these attempts. Its a tale of 3 characters, living in the city of terror, hunger and strikes (which was once said to be city of lights) Karachi. It tells, how common man has to fight with the ongoing conditions to make their big dreams come true.

First thing first, please dont compare it with bollywood or hollywood cinema. If u judge it making other industries the benchmark, u'll never enjoy it. Its a cinema of its own kind.

It has a v interesting script with a beautiful screenplay. Although, a bit dragged, but as a viewer, u stick to the screen right till the end. Every actor is phenomenal, esp Fahad, Javed Sheikh n Mohsin have done commendable job.

Bg score of the movie was on target and it beautifuly goes with the proceedings. Soundtrack could have been much better.

Length of the film is a bit stretched. Editing should have been a bit crispier. Cinematography is digestable showing inner parts of Karachi in a good manner.

Overall, its a very good attempt at situational comedy and almost succeeds in managing what it was supposed to do. Its a much watch for its sheer simplicity and relavance of society.

Drishyam- Movie Review by Shoby

Drishyam- Movie Review by Shoby

3 Stars out of 5

Nishikant Kamat the director of acclaimed Force has brought up yet another marvelous thriller. Drishyan is undoubtedly one of the finest crime thrillers made in Bollywood.

Ajay Devgan, Tabu, Rajat, Shriya Saran and rest of the cast has pulled out some spectecular performances. It is one of the best performances by Ajay in recent times. To me, real hero of the movie is Jeethu Joseph for writing suc ha solid script, that keeps you hooked throughout the proceedings.

A must watch for those who like thrillers.