Man of Steel: A Superman for a new generation

Everyone looks up to a superhero. Since the time that one is able to walk and talk, the obsession with superheroes begins. We try to emulate them and do what they do so we can be better people, or just because we like their style and want to be as cool as them. Regardless of our intentions, superhero movies are a craze that can inspire generations and live in the hearts of millions forever.

Clark Kent is an unseemly young man jumping from one odd job to another. What is most astonishing about him is the fact that his superhuman abilities are revealed slowly as he helps people he meets in his search to find his true identity. He discovers that he is an alien from a planet called Krypton which was destroyed long before he arrived on Earth. As his search continues, he realises the purpose of his existence on Earth at the same time that a group of rebels from his home planet discover him. The rebels come to Earth in the hope that they can continue their villainous rein by restarting their own race of Kryptonians on planet Earth. Now under the identity of Superman, Clark must take sides as he decides whether to trust his own race or the humans.

A complete restart of the Superman series, Man of Steel has a charm that has not been witnessed in any Superman film prior to this one. This can be attributed to the directorial work of Zack Snyder and the production inputs from Christopher Nolan. A certain amount of credit also goes to the editorial work put in by Christopher Nolan and David S. Goyer who worked on the screenplay for the film. Both Snyder and Nolan have a penchant for creating exquisite action sequences and brilliant films which shows in this movie as well. Snyder’s directorial influence also shows in his use of decolourised scenes which he is well known for.

While the previous Superman film franchise was known for being loved out-and-out for being relatable and humanistic, this Superman also endures a far bit of soul-searching in his quest to find himself. The character was always well-known for being a ruggedly handsome powerful being who was shaken more by his inner demons than actual physical combat with his foes, which is also seen in this film to a certain degree. It also shows Superman’s vulnerability when the people he loves are affected, particularly his family and love interest. His weakness is also exposed when he is faced up with people as powerful as himself; in overcoming that weakness he is forced to perform an action he almost never does which produces a scene of amazing impact towards the end of the film.

While certain apprehensions persist over whether it was a true-to-the-style Superman film, it is nevertheless a great action film in its own rite. In fact, apart from just being a great action film, as an epic about a superhero that happens only once in a few generations, it fares quite well too.

Dreamgirls: The emerging music business of Detroit through the eyes of one group

Looking back to when the popularity of recorded music was picking up steam in the 1950s and 1960s, there are many amazing stories that can be told based on the lives of the musicians who made it big as well as those who tried but failed for numerous reasons. In the strife of racial hate at the time, it was very difficult for African American (Black) musicians to establish themselves; yet, the ones that did were quite remarkably talented and paved the way for others besides giving the world amazing music and new ideals to live by. Hence, it only makes sense that the lives of one such set of musicians should be celebrated in a musical-drama film as was done in the 2006 movie Dreamgirls.

While struggling to get some form of recognition in the early 1960s through small talent shows, Effie White, Deena Jones and Lorell Robinson are signed by car salesman turned artist manager Curtis Taylor Jr. as a girl group called The Dreamettes to be the backing act of R&B singer James ‘Thunder’ Early. The Dreamettes gain fame and recognition and go on to be a successful act by themselves when James Early’s career fizzles out. Lead singer Effie falls in love with Curtis but both her personal and professional life take a hit when Curtis decides to appoint sexier looking Deena as the lead singer of the group. Effie quits the group and wallows in misery as The Dreamettes go on to make a bigger name for themselves completely unaware of the condition that their former best friend and partner is now living in.

The film, directed by Bill Condon, is an adaptation of a musical of the same name which ran on Broadway in the 1980s. The film uses fiction to chronicle the lives of various people in the music business in Detroit from 1950 until 1980. The story is a direct nod to the R&B group called The Supremes which was headed by Diana Ross. Certain record artworks which are shown in the film were similarly crafted to resemble those released by The Supremes. Other supporting characters in the film are also representational of real-life musicians who performed for the top R&B label Motown started by Berry Gordy Jr in 1959 which is directly represented by Rainbow records started by Curtis Taylor Jr. in the film.

Being a musical, it would be expected that the soundtrack of the film would be exceptional; and it is. Employing the voices of Beyonce Knowles and Jennifer Hudson for most of the songs, the soundtrack of the film is a heavenly experience for anyone who enjoys R&B and soul music. Other personnel who have lent their talents to the making of the soundtrack have also done a fabulous job to tie up an excellent musical experience for the viewer.

The movie is a fictional account of true events that occurred in the music business in America’s 1950s, particularly for African American musicians who had a difficult life. The plot and music are the standout points for the film which is the best one can hope for from a drama-musical.

Crazy, Stupid, Love: A funny new way of looking at love

Over the past few years, the number of divorces that have ripped families apart has been on the rise. A view of family life has shifted from the necessity of the husband and wife to stick together towards a belief that everyone should do whatever it takes to be happy. Divorce was always looked at with a scorn that is reserved for something that is hated. It has always been a matter of serious consequence; but what if it triggers the start of many comical incidents?

Cal and Emily were a happily married couple, or at least that seemed to be the case until Emily decided to ask for a divorce while Cal was deciding what to have for dessert when they were enjoying dinner in a restaurant. Evidently Cal is in shock but decides to move out of the house where he lived with his wife and children as he mops in private by drinking heavily at a local bar. As Cal proceeds to recite to anyone who will listen about his wife’s affair and request for a divorce, Jacob, a suave and handsome young man, overhears his willowing and pities him. Jacob decides to teach Cal his ways and help him pick up women at the bar so Cal can get over his wife and move on with his life. The ensuing training brings out many hilarious moments as Jacob teaches Cal the ways of bachelorhood while he himself falls in love with a young woman who he wants to settle down with. At the same time, Cal and Emily struggle with getting their children to accept their impending divorce and how to deal with their beloved Nana.

By taking a serious topic like divorce and twisting it around in a hilarious way, directors Glen Ficarra and John Requa have allowed the audience an opportunity to laugh at some of life’s miserable moments. Although it can be quite serious at instances, divorce isn’t as grave a subject as death, murder, genocide and the like which fall under the genre of dark humour.

The plot itself stems from quite an original idea where a to-be-divorced husband is befriended by a younger man who has to initiate him into bachelorhood, something that the husband has never really experienced previously. Writer Dan Fogelman has put in some great ideas and parallel stories in the plot which makes it fresh and interesting when watching the film. The small twist in the plot and the minor confusion that it creates is a great addition that brings the stories together. In addition, the film provides a slightly askew but unique view of what love has become in the modern age.

The film has Steve Carell’s unique style of comedy balanced with Ryan Gosling’s smouldering good looks. It is a very good film that balances comedy, drama and romance.

A Single Man: The last hours before a planned suicide

What goes through the mind of a person committing suicide? Actually if the act was planned what goes through their mind from the time they decide to do it till the time that they perform the act of actually ending their life? Do they experience fear, anxiety, anger or any other emotion? Do they go about their normal day? A Single Man is the story of the day that protagonist George Falconer plans to commit suicide.

Eight months prior to the present day, 30th November 1962, the closest person in George Falconer's life, his partner Jim, died of a car accident while visiting his family. To add to the grief of the loss, George was barely even informed of Jim's death let alone be allowed a last glimpse of the love of his life at the funeral. Today George is saturated with the grief that follows him day in and day out and has decided to end his life with his revolver. But before he draws his final breath, he goes about his final day by setting his perspectives right and also those of others around him, all the while he must remind himself to take his pills regularly which are a requirement after having suffered a heart attack months before. The story follows his interactions with his regular friends and others; Charley, his old friend who accompanied him from England to America; Alba, his maid who takes care of his house; Kenny, a student of his English class who is stalking him; Carlos, a Spanish prostitute who he runs into. The day unfolds for George with some routine activities and some unexpected events as he reminisces the past.

With the use of the time period the film is set in, director Tom Ford was able to depict anxiety in his characters through the political unrest which was prevalent in the United States at the time. The impeding Cold War which is a topic of discussion in the film allows the director to not only place questions on the need for war but also on the discrimination against homosexuality which is another focal point of the film.

Director Tom Ford made use of a desaturated colour scheme for most of the film to establish the fact that it is a period film set in the 1960’s, but he has also used bright colours to fill the screen whenever the protagonist finds hope in his despondent life which is a reminder of the pain that he is going through emotionally. The use of colours in the cinematography is a constant reminder for the audience that the protagonist is constantly depressed but is able to find happiness for at least a few moments, even on what he has planned to be his final day. The storyline has a few twists and turns, especially a final outcome which most audiences would not foresee. Colin Firth in the role of protagonist George Falconer does a brilliant job to bring the viewer into his own shoes.

For his directorial debut, Tom Ford has definitely done a brilliant job. It is a splendid film for anyone who enjoys films with a strong focus on human emotions and social standings.

Orphan: In search of the perfect family

What defines an excellent thriller film? They are usually known to be about sudden jerky camera movements, splashing of gory faces on the screen and explosive use of sound effects. Most thriller films seem to follow these patterns and usually fail miserably at evoking any kind of fear or any other emotion out of their audience. But the 2009 film Orphan which was directed by Jaume Collet-Serra is a thriller with a difference.

As a couple grieves the birth of a still born daughter for their third child, they decide to overcome the process of mourning by adopting a girl from an orphanage. The girl, Esther, appears to be an innocent child with a few inexplicable habits but all the while the couple tries to love her as they would their own daughter. Esther gets along perfectly well with the couples’ youngest, a deaf and mute girl who considers Esther her elder sister and follows her around everywhere; on the other hand, the son is reluctant to accept Esther as part of the family. Her unorthodox habits and rejection at home cuts Esther off from most of the family and her classmates. Slowly certain unforeseen circumstances occur with Esther being a prime figure linking up the unfortunate events. By digging up Esther’s past and joining the dots, the mother realises her family is in grave danger which she must rectify.

A dark and mysterious character throughout the film, Esther has qualities that make it overwhelming to figure out her true identity. The portrayal of the character leaves a cunning air of indecision yet confidence about her which sends a shiver down the viewers back. Not always in a good light, she provides the thrill in the film which is built on a wonderful, expressive and well thought out story.

Pain is the most important part of the film. Whether it is in the rejection from a husband, the breaking of an arm of a timid girl or the crushing to death of an innocent bird, the viewer can partake in the pain of what is portrayed on the screen. The feeling of pain also provides the thrill factor in the film which the audience can relate to. The film is made such that anyone can put themselves in the shoes of the character and imagine being in similar circumstances.

The film has a particular dark essence to it which adds to the feeling of horror it maintains. There is a feeling of unrest throughout the film which is maintained because of the gradual character development as the story goes on. The dark tone of the film also coincides with the personality of the protagonist, which is mysterious and unresolved.

From the very first frame itself the film carries a promise of being an exciting, blood pumping and pulse accelerating thriller which is able to captivate its audience to levels that thriller films in the past have failed to achieve.

Ferris Bueller's Day Off: A day in the life of a mischievous teenager

The saying ‘Boys will be boys’ usually goes to say that adolescent boys are always up to mischief and will continue to do so because it is in their nature. It is a justification for young men to talk and behave the way they do while the rest of society chooses to accept them as they are, provided they do not cross the bounds of the societal norms. The same phrase would be most apt to describe the 1986 movie Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, if it were to be explained in a single sentence.

Ferris Bueller is a mischievous school kid who is loved by everyone. His classmates and the rest of the school think he is a sweetheart and his gullible parents think that an angel like him could do no wrong. But unknown to them, Ferris always as some tricks up his sleeve and decides to skip school one day. He fakes an illness in front of his parents and claims to stay in bed the whole day. Instead he rings up his best friend Cameron and convinces him to take out his father’s Ferrari in order to rescue his girlfriend Sloane from the clutches of the school and have a day out on the town. They visit all the places they can think of and even manage to involve themselves in a parade. All the while, Ferris’ sister is aware of his sly ideas and vows to expose him before the day is done as does the dean at his school, Ed Rooney.

Written and directed by John Hughes and released in 1986, the film has gone down over the years as a cult classic. It is one among many films based on teenagers and specifically focuses on their school life. In its true essence, the film is all about a young man trying to fulfil his wishes to have a good time and wanting to stay away from responsibilities which are imposed on him. Thus the film reiterates the belief about young men being slack and that ‘boys will be boys’.

The most interesting technique adopted in this film is definitely the breaking of the fourth wall. Time and again the protagonist Ferris Buller, portrayed by Matthew Broderick, will step away from the normal proceedings of the story to speak to the audience and occasionally explain why he does what he does. In a way the film has an infomercial style to it with the protagonist giving the audience a list of do’s and don’ts, the text of which flashes on the screen as he recites it. On other occasions, he simply starts speaking to the audience about what he thinks and feels so as to make it easier for them to understand.

As mentioned before, the film is a cult classic. It follows a mildly dramatic plot and is infused with comedy at appropriate intervals. It is a good one-time watch.

Chronicle: The human behind the super power

Although many people would love to have superpowers and would dream about it plenty of times, it is very difficult to predict exactly how most of us would behave if our wishes came true and we did attain some superhuman abilities. The answer of whether we would use them for the right reasons and help other people, as is shown with most popular superheroes, or if we would use it for our own selfish gain and eventually end up misusing those powers can only be answered if we are actually placed in such a hypothetical situation. But that seems to be what the 2012 action movie Chronicle has touched upon.

Andrew is a teenager with a creative mind and asocial tendencies. He is terribly introverted as he goes through his high school life with a camera by his side and no friends but his cousin to hang out with occasionally. His cousin Matt tries to convince him to get along with more people by taking him to a party at a barn and introducing him around. Eventually, Andrew, Matt and Matt’s friend Steve wind up in the middle of a field where they discover a hole leading to an underground cave. Andrew reluctantly agrees to follow Matt and Steve into the cave where they discover a glowing stone embedded into the ground. After an unfortunate mishap, the three friends narrowly manage to survive but later discover that they have received telekinetic powers. They agree to keep it a secret and use their powers sparingly but Andrews’s fragile self esteem and longing to make something of himself lead to rifts in their friendship and more problems than they can handle with their powers alone.

The feature film directorial debut of Josh Trank, Chronicle follows the unique style of a handheld camera that is a part of the storyline. By establishing that the protagonist carries around a camera at all times, the film was then told through the eyes of the camera that plays a part in the film. Although utilised previously in a few other films, this style still manages to strike a chord with its audience for being a more creative style of filmmaking.

Although the character of the introverted Andrew is the protagonist in the film, he is in fact an anti-hero. The film follows most of his perspective which makes him the protagonist, however the actions he takes leads to horrible outcomes for everyone around him which throws him into the negative light.

The film does employ a bit of a creative style, but it’s nothing extraordinary that hasn’t been seen before. The film tries to portray the human side of exceptional beings but ends up succumbing to the grotesque use of visual effects and action packed scenes which can be seen in any superhero movie. While certain scenes of the film do have a visual appeal, like when one of the characters splits a spider into pieces by pulling each of its legs apart at the same time or by crushing a car into a ball just by making a fist, it’s disappointing that the potential for a good script would be sacrificed just for a more appealing visual production. Maybe that is what Hollywood has come down to, but it’s quite disappointing.

In the end, it is a cool-looking movie, but that shouldn’t be the only reason to watch a film. It could have been something special but as it is, it is just another Hollywood action flick.