Little Women (2019)

Greta Gerwig's "Little Women" (2019) is an absolute delight! This adaptation of Louisa May Alcott's classic takes the familiar story of the March sisters and infuses it with a fresh and immediate energy. The film unfolds through a non-linear timeline, focusing on the grown-up March sisters, especially Saoirse Ronan's Jo, who wants to be a writer and navigate life in New York.

Ronan's portrayal of Jo is brimming with energy and restlessness, making her the perfect embodiment of a budding writer. The entire cast shines, including Timothée Chalamet as Laurie, whose chemistry with Ronan is palpable. It's almost as if they're modern-day young adults, creating a relatable and realistic dynamic.

Director Gerwig breathes new life into familiar characters, allowing them to explore their ambitions and limitations within society. Emma Watson's Meg, Florence Pugh's Amy, and Eliza Scanlen's Beth all deliver standout performances. Pugh's Amy, in particular, evolves into a determined and ambitious woman, making her character immensely likable. 


The film's visuals are a treat, with costumes that break free from period drama stiffness, thanks to Jacqueline Durran's work. Yorick Le Saux's cinematography adds a painterly quality, while Alexandre Desplat's score strikes the perfect balance between lightness and beauty.

While some may find the non-linear storytelling a tad confusing, it ultimately deepens our understanding of the characters. "Little Women" (2019) stands as the definitive big-screen adaptation, leaving us with a thought-provoking finale that would surely delight Louisa May Alcott herself. Greta Gerwig has once again proven her prowess in American cinema. Don't miss this grandmother of all women-centric films in a year filled with compelling stories about women.

  Who would you cast as Jo March?

Tudors (2007)

Alright, let's talk about "The Tudors," that gem of a series from 2007. If you haven't hopped on the Tudor bandwagon yet, you're in for an absolute treat. This show is like a historical rollercoaster, with a generous sprinkle of creative flair that keeps you hooked from start to finish.

Now, let's get to the crown jewel of this series, Jonathan Rhys Meyers as King Henry VIII. The man was born to play this role. He embodies the charismatic yet often ruthless monarch flawlessly. Throughout the series, you'll find yourself swinging between loving and loathing Henry, and that's precisely what makes this ride so exhilarating.

But it's not just about King Henry. The entire cast shines brightly. Natalie Dormer as Anne Boleyn is a force of nature. The chemistry between her and Meyers adds a whole new level of sizzle to the drama.

Now, here's the deal with historical accuracy – it takes a bit of a backseat in "The Tudors." They've compressed, tweaked, and spiced up events to crank up the drama. So, don't expect a history lesson here. Instead, get ready for a gripping historical soap opera that'll keep you on the edge of your seat. 


What "The Tudors" does brilliantly is capture the essence of the Tudor era. The lavish costumes, the political intrigues, and the sumptuous sets transport you right into 16th-century England. The dialogue is sharp, and the characters are multi-dimensional, making you feel like you're right there in the midst of Tudor power plays. 


In a nutshell, "The Tudors" is history with a twist. If you're open to a bit of creative liberty in the name of entertainment, you're in for a binge-worthy treat. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and get ready to be utterly captivated by this Tudor tale of power, love, and political intrigue.

Persuasion (2022)

Hey there! I just watched the newest version of "Persuasion," and I couldn't wait to spill the tea. So, grab your teacup and let's chat about it.

This adaptation of Jane Austen's classic novel brings a fresh twist to the period drama genre. Dakota Johnson shines as Anne Elliot, infusing her character with wit and spirit. Her candid remarks, often shared with her self-absorbed family, add a delightful modern touch. Cosmo Jarvis, who plays Captain Wentworth, mesmerizes us with his expressive eyes and heartfelt emotions. While it may not be the most heart-fluttering romance on screen, it's a satisfying period production that won't disappoint fans of the genre.

Now, for us die-hard Jane Austen aficionados. I have to confess, this adaptation isn't the masterpiece we've been longing for. Director Carrie Cracknell takes some creative liberties, especially with Anne's character. Our beloved Anne Elliot, known for her poise and maturity, gets a modern-day makeover. She's self-pitying, snarky, and occasionally finds solace in wine. While this Anne brings humor and a different dynamic to the story, it might not align with the Anne we've imagined.

Other character changes are less drastic, and some subplots take a back seat. Still, the film manages to add a humorous twist by turning the Elliot family into self-absorbed narcissists. It's a funny diversion from the film's other quirks.

But here's the kicker: some historical inaccuracies may make die-hard Janeites cringe. We all might have different reactions to this adaptation, but one thing's for sure – it's an interesting take on Austen's classic, even if it doesn't check all the boxes. Cheers to a new spin on a timeless tale!

Mad Men (2007-2015)

Have you ever wondered what it was like to live in the era when consumerism was on the rise, and advertising was at its zenith? What if you could step into the stylish shoes of those who shaped the world of Madison Avenue in the 1960s?

 

In a time when sleek suits, glamorous parties, and the art of persuasion were at their peak, "Mad Men" invites us to do just that. This TV series isn't just a show; it's a captivating time machine that whisks us away to the heart of 1960s Manhattan, where the world of advertising was undergoing a transformation like never before.

I think Mad Men is an absolute gem of a TV series that takes us on a captivating journey into the intriguing world of 1960s Manhattan advertising. Set against the backdrop of the golden age of advertising, it's a show that deserves all the praise it gets.

The attention to detail and production values are nothing short of spectacular. From the meticulously crafted sets to the authentic costumes and the period-appropriate soundtrack, every aspect transports you back in time to an era of sleek suits, glamorous parties, and the birth of modern consumerism.

One of the show's greatest strengths lies in its complex and multi-dimensional characters. Don Draper, the enigmatic creative director at Sterling Cooper, is a compelling figure with a mysterious past. His flaws and complexities make him a character you can't help but be intrigued by. And he's not alone – the entire cast is a mix of flawed, fascinating, and sometimes morally ambiguous individuals whose motivations and challenges are both relatable and captivating. 

For those of us who didn't experience the 1960s firsthand, "Mad Men" offers a glimpse into a society undergoing profound changes. It's a time when the United States was flexing its muscles as the most powerful nation in the world, yet grappling with social and cultural shifts that would shape the decades to come. The series doesn't shy away from these complexities; instead, it presents them in all their nuanced glory.

What sets "Mad Men" apart is its refusal to provide neat, happy endings. Life is messy, and the characters' journeys reflect that reality. It's a show that respects the intelligence of its audience, allowing us to draw our own conclusions and grapple with the moral ambiguities presented.

In essence, "Mad Men" is a masterclass in storytelling and character development. It's a show that not only entertains but also provokes thought and discussion. If you haven't embarked on this journey into the past, it's time to pour yourself a glass of scotch and dive into the world of Madison Avenue's finest – you won't be disappointed.

Portrait of a Lady on Fire

"Portrait of a Lady on Fire" is a cinematic masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of mainstream cinema. This profoundly tender film is a celebration of the feminine gaze, featuring exemplary performances and impeccable screenwriting and cinematography.

Set in the 18th century, this forbidden queer period drama explores themes of self-discovery and love. It introduces us to Marianne, an artist tasked with painting a portrait of Héloïse, a young woman set to marry a Milanese nobleman. What follows is a mesmerizing journey into their evolving relationship.

Director Céline Sciamma's precise use of camera angles and blocking immerses viewers in the characters' perspectives. The film skillfully navigates the concept of "The Gaze" from both artistic and feminist angles, allowing us to witness the growth of a profound connection.

Héloïse's desire to be truly seen, not just as an object of art, sets the stage for a deeper exploration of human connection. Marianne initially focuses on capturing Héloïse's physical attributes but later delves into understanding her desires and emotions.

"Portrait of a Lady on Fire" beautifully portrays the early stages of love, where infatuation and affection envelop the characters. It masterfully captures moments of stolen glances, shared secrets, and unspoken desires, all against the backdrop of a hauntingly beautiful score.

The film also breaks class barriers, portraying a touching friendship between the two protagonists and the family maid, Sophie. Their shared experiences, including a powerful abortion scene, emphasize the importance of solidarity among women.

Ultimately, "Portrait of a Lady on Fire" transcends conventional love stories. It explores the power of observation and appreciation for the subtleties of human expression, illustrating what love, desire, and friendship can mean when liberated from societal norms. This film is a memory of a love story, both melancholic and hopeful.

Such cinematic gems, driven by the feminine gaze, are a testament to the artistry and depth that can be achieved in filmmaking. They cater to a more mature and educated audience, those who seek narratives not driven by profit but by the human experience. "Portrait of a Lady on Fire" stands as a shining example of the beauty and complexity that can be achieved in cinema when the feminine perspective is given the spotlight.

Winter is coming..

A new retelling of one of the most famous heroes of all times, Robin Hood (2018). The movie is to be released in the last week of November and Taron Egerton is playing the lead.

Now, the things I am not too sure of, the COSTUMES, and, the fact the Taron might end up overplaying the role.

Watch the trailer and tell us, what do you think!

Feud (2017)

If you find yourself free for some drama and binge watching this weekend, here is the series for you - FEUD. It is about the "Divine Feud" as it is being called, between Bette Davis and Joan Crawford which stretched for more than half a century!

Susan Sarandon is playing the immensely talented Bette Davis and Jessica Lange stands as the beautiful Joan Crawford. There are other A-listers from Hollywood including, Stanley Tucci, Kathy Bates, Catherine Zeta Jones, among others. Davis and Crawford worked together for one movie, "Whatever Happened to Baby Jane" and the series follows "whatever happened" with the production.

Now, what makes this series truly exciting for me is the fact that I love Bette Davis and her one liners, served piercing hot.

Post your favorites lines by commenting on this post! Happy watching!

First Man (2018)

Space science is not something that excites me but I watched First Man for the sweethearts, Ryan Gosling and Claire Foy. Damien Chazelle has got a different perspective on the movie and its not only about the patriotism and victory of science, it follows a man's story and his sorrows. I think it is an amazing take on the story.

First Man shows a plaintive portrayal of Neil Armstrong's life, together with his family. Claire Foy's portrayal of Janet Armstrong is every bit realistic and powerful. Amazing performances by both of them. The scenes have been shot with great precision, whether its Gosling on the screen alone, contemplating his feelings or Foy looking at her husband and actually connecting and explaining the dilemma in a way. The background theme for the movie adds to the story and the perspective that the director wants to showcase, its sad, distant, and lamenting.

This one is definitely worth watching. If you missed it this weekend, plan it for it for the next one and trust me you won't regret.

Write to me and let me know what made you like or dislike the movie.

Mary Queen of Scots

Another remake and this time with one of my favorites as the lead, Saoirse Ronan as Mary Stuart in Mary Queen of Scots. Interestingly, Margot Robbie is going to play Queen Elizabeth I, which is something I couldn’t have thought of in terms of casting, but I look forward to.

The movie has been directed by Josie Rourke, who has a reputation for directing artistic Broadway productions. Guy Pearce and Ian Hart are also part of the cast. It is based on the book ‘Queen of Scots: the true life of Mary Stuart’ by John Guy.

Watched the trailer and it looks very dramatic. Its a complex character and people have their own perspectives. Saoirse Ronan is too young to play the role, appreciate the bold choice on her part, though. Honestly, what I am afraid of is that Margot Robbie might just steal the show and Saoirse might end up looking little shy and gentle, fingers crossed.

Please watch the trailer and let me know what do you think about it. Is it on your watch list?

The Irishman: teaser

You know what happens when Martin Scorsese teams up with Robert De Niro, right, BOOM! The Irishman is post production and probably one of the best movies to look out for in 2019.
Here's a link to a factual video, the rest of them on the Internet are fan made.

The period drama stars some of the biggest, best names in terms of acting, who also happen to be Scorsese's regulars: Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, Harvey Keitel. Another exciting fact, you probably already know about, this is the first time Scorsese is working with Al Pacino! It is based on the book I Heard You Paint Houses by Charles Brandt.


Apparently, Netflix has paid a huge amount for the movie and I would have too, if I had that kind of money. The release date isn't known yet but it would be sometime in 2019.

Write to me and let me know if you are excited about the The Irishman and how do you picture the legends. 

The Favorite: is it wise for Colman?

I watched the trailer for The Favorite today and though the movie seems to be interesting with Emma Stone, Rachel Weisz and Olivia Colman in the lead but I doubt something, Colman being casted as Queen Anne of the Great Britain in the movie when she has been confirmed to play the lead in the third season of The Crown, is it her wrong choice of role OR a casting flaw?

The movie premiered at the Venice International Film Festival this year and is scheduled to be released later in 2019 around the same time as the third season of The Crown.

Watch the trailer and let me know what do you think.

Little Women remake: this is fancy!

Yet another remake has been announced and wait till you get to know about the cast!

Little Women is to be remade and this time by Greta Gerwig, not just that, speculations say that she will also be writing the adaption for the camera!

Now, the exciting part, the CAST:

• Laura Dern as Marmee March
  

• Timothee Chalamet as  Laurie
  

• Emma Watson as Meg March
  

• Meryl Streep as the rich Aunt March
  

• Saoirse Ronan as Jo
  

I think I would have wanted Meryl to be Marmee, yes, actually. For now, I am happy to watch her to be a part of the remake. Who would have thought! Too happy with Laurie and Jo, though.

I am too excited about this one, given the cast. I think I’ll always be excited about any Little Women remake and have the right to compare it to the ’94 movie.

Write to me and tell me what would you dream cast for Little Women be ..

Capote (2005)

It feels great to share another review with you all and I hope we are all doing great!

Cheers to another movie night!

I watched Capote last week and I don't exactly know why I didn't watch this one earlier.

The movie, as the title suggests, is about Truman Capote (Breakfast at Tiffany's, yes we remember that one) and the period during which he wrote his most sensational book "In Cold Blood".

It has been directed by Bennett Miller (Moneyball) based on the book written by Gerald Clarke. It is amazing, has been captured in detail (with little to no background score) and the best part, of course, is Philip Seymour Hoffman.

If only we could have more of his performances, I swear!

The movie shows the time in Truman Capote's life when he comes to know about the murder of a farm family in Kansas and calls up The New Yorker (magazine) to tell that he wants to write about it. The movie is about what follows, the incidents, struggles, Truman Capote's cunning, and expertise as a writer that turn a story into a complete book.

Harper Lee (played by Catherine Keener) was a lifelong friend with Capote so you get to see her part, as well, in making things easier for Capote. There is no mystery and many of us might already know the story, but watch this one for the beauty of story telling and the phenomena that Hoffman was, and will continue to be. Apart from Hoffman, I would say that the direction is in line with the camera work. There are shots where you don't see a zoom-in to state the obvious but a wide shot which actually lets you paint the image you want and get your own perspective. I would hate to describe the scenes and spill the beans here, but there is one in particular where a running train has been captured from such a distance that you will be left wondering if at all its a train, but then, you get the time to contemplate the story.

Although I know the post is about the movie, I still can't stop myself from mentioning another one of Hoffman's immaculate performance in DOUBT. Doubt is like a cream of performances with Meryl Streep, Viola Davis and Amy Adams in the cast. Watch these two movies and I am sure you will be able to understand the depth of the art and the impression it leaves.


Please share your views and leave a comment. I will be more than happy to connect with you all and talk about the movies we love.

Capote : Trailer

Carol (2015)

Carol - some people change your life forever...

I am writing after rather a long break and it feels great to be posting again about the movies we love.

I watched Carol (2015) just in time, before the Oscar night in order to judge it myself and what a delight it was!

Picture Credits

It is based on the novel The Price of Salt by Patricia Highsmith and its about Carol (Cate Blanchett), well settled wife of a wealthy man, caught in a loveless marriage, her friendship with Therese (Rooney Mara) and what comes there after. (No spoilers here...)

I don't want to write the summary here, you might know the story already or might not, you'll enjoy the movie anyway, thats a guarantee.

Cate and Rooney, both, have played their characters so well that I can't think of any other actor in their place. There is such comfort and intensity between these two. Apart from the impeccable performances what I loved about the movie was the camerawork, the cinematography. It is fluid, beautiful and the frames do justice to the story.

The subject of this movie is something that is still frowned upon in most parts of the world and yet, you can't deny that its a treat to watch it, so subtle and flowing.

And though the movie, the cast and the crew didn't get an Oscar despite of six nominations, don't think any less of it. It is a screen marvel.

I can go on writing about the movie but then you'll have to watch it to witness the genius, watch it for the love of period dramas, for performance, for cinematography and for the love of fine cinema.

Watch the trailer here and decide for yourself:

Hedda Gabler (2015)

Hedda Gabler - then life might be liveable, in spite of everything

If you are an ardent period drama fan I'm sure you watch re-makes and then pass your judgement by comparing them (at least I do). Here's another one for you to judge (but enjoy before doing that).

Hedda Gabler is based on a play Henrik Ibsen, a very celebrated Norwegian playwright. 

This is what director Matthew John had to say, “I know it’s a big risk, and I know there will be many Ibsen purists who will criticise us heavily over this,” said Matthew John. “But I believe we’re only doing what Ibsen himself would have done had he been adapting the stage play into a film script.”

You might be familiar with the story but this one is going to be lavish. How do I know? Well, I have had a little time interviewing the cast. I'll soon post interviews with the cast members and Sir Benjamin Slade, the owner of the amazing Maunsel House (Somerset) where the movie has been shot.

The lead, Hedda Gabler, is played by the beautiful Rita Ramnani. Hedda is newly married and already bored of her life, living with a husband she doesn't love. Also, it stars the talented Samantha E. Hunt as Thea Helvsted.

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Watch the trailer and relish the rich stills.

Photo Credits: Robert Lipnicki

Photo Credits: Robert Lipnicki

More to come in the posts that follow, be back soon.

Suffragette (2015) - Trailer

Suffragette (2015)

Just when we were waiting for another Meryl Streep period drama, we have Suffragette (2015)!

As the name suggests this period movie is about Suffragette - women's for right to vote movement in the 19th and 20th century Britain.

Meryl Streep is of course the cherry on top of the cake besides the amazing cast - Carey Mulligan, Helena Bonham Carter, Ben Whishaw, Brendan Gleeson, Romola Garai, Anne-Marie Duff and others. Sounds promising to me.

Photo Credits

Have a look at the blazing trailer.

Far from the Madding Crowd (2015) - Trailer

Weren't we all waiting for this one (at least I was).

Far from the Madding Crowd (2015) is the second screen adaptation of the famous novel by Thomas Hardy. It stars Carey Mulligan in the lead and the three handsome men are Matthias Schoenaerts, Michael Sheen and Tom Sturridge (who looks like a man, thank you moustache).

The story is about a young girl who unexpectedly inherits her uncle's property (and scores of suitors). It is a story of passion, tradition and temptation. The ever so refined accents and beautiful countryside, enough reason for me to watch this one, besides, we know the story already.

Do write and let us all know about your views on this movie.

Into the Woods (2014) - Trailer

Into the Woods (2014)

What could be better than a Disney treat on Christmas - Into the Woods!

Into the Woods looks more promising than any other movie this December. With all the cast, Meryl Streep, Johnny Depp, Emily Blunt, who all and who not.

A baker and his wife are cursed to be childless, what follows are the adventures they get into bringing the magical stuff to break the curse. In the middle of all this, there would be classic fairy tale characters, Rapunzel, Little Red Riding Hood, etc etc. The witch, of course, is played by Meryl Streep! What more can we ask for!

Brace yourself for this feast!

The Age of Adaline - Trailer

The Age of Adaline (2015)

An interesting twist to what could have been a period drama through and through, The Age of Adaline's (2015) trailer promises, well, of more than one love stories, tangled!

Adaline (Blake Lively) meets with an accident and stops to age! So, there you have multiple love stories over the long decades because our heroine remains just as young as she was 50 years ago..and becomes more stylish by the decades! Delightful huh!

The movie would be releasing sometime in 2015 and I can't wait to watch Blake Lively in a period flick.

Stay tuned!

The Theory of Everything (2014) - Reviewed

The Theory of Everything 

Photo Credits

Physics seems to be raging all around us, with movies like Gravity and Interstellar getting mainstream. The Theory of Everything (2014) tells us about the life of the most popular theoretical physicist of our times, Stephen Hawking.

The movie opens with Hawking completing his Phd. at Cambridge in the early 60s. This is where he meets Jane, falls in love and marries her. In the meanwhile, he is detected with the motor neuron disease and what follows is the rest of the story of his success and difficulties.

Eddie Redmayne as Hawking brings life to the character and I can't think of a substitute for the part. Redmayne's performance is absolutely breath taking and one would have to watch the movie to believe it. I think it is his best till date and honestly, he deserves an Oscar for this role. Felicity Jones plays Jane, Hawking's darling and first wife. Jones has come a long way from playing teenaged characters to this serious and hard part in a period movie. She deserves an applause for this portrayal and probably an Oscar nomination.

Watch this movie for :
1. Redmayne and Jones perfomrances.
2. Learning about the life Stephen Hawking.
3. Inspiration.
4. PHYSICS!

Comment on this post and let me know if you have watched this movie already. All ears!