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The buzz surrounding this movie, from film circuits to critics and public uproar, has been massive. When there's such a large noise, it's imperative to catch it on the big screen.

The film tells the true story of Indian warrior Chhatrapati Shivaji Sambhaji Rao, who dedicated his life to Hind Swarajya. It showcases his adult life and his unending fight against the Mughals.

Our history books have often overlooked these warriors who fought tooth and nail for our motherland, and this movie rightly honors them. The story moves at a fast pace, packed into 155 minutes. You won't be able to take your eyes off the screen for a second, as there's so much happening in every scene. However, this is also a bit of a disadvantage, as the story jumps too quickly from one event to the next before it really sinks in, making it difficult to become fully invested. With the grandeur in which it's presented, this movie can only be fully appreciated on the big screen.

Vicky Kaushal has literally poured his blood and soul into this role. He carries the movie on his capable shoulders with a fierce persona and exceptional acting prowess. You can't help but gush about him and feel he deserves next National Award. Akshay Khanna, the antagonist, is another star you can't help but despise for his impeccable portrayal of Aurangzeb. Vineet Kumar Singh and Ashutosh Rana are other gems in this larger-than-life movie, with Vineet finally getting a meaty role to prove his acting capabilities. However, the disappointment comes in bold letters with Rashmika Mandanna, who, in no way, resembled a Marathi woman, nor did she speak like one. Diana Penty too was nothing more than a flower vase. Both women were the biggest casting errors.

We all know music is essential in a movie, and the background score (BGM) too plays a significant role. I realized its impact during this film. Legendary music maestro A. R. Rahman was the most disappointing part of the crew, as his work single-handedly spoiled the movie. The movie never reaches a high due to the poor BGM, which fails to provide the adrenaline rush needed in key scenes.

The action sequences are shot well, but they could have been more innovative in terms of strategy. Where they did implement them, they felt rushed. The CGI work could have been improved. The dialogues are decent but could have been written better to include more whistle-worthy moments. The film is filled with blood and gore, which works, as it gives you an unsettling feeling. The entire climax, with its torture, sends chills down your spine, but the makers could have delved deeper into it to make the audience truly feel the pain to an extreme extent.

A legend like this isn't born every day, and we should all know about him. Barring a few shortcomings, this movie is a visual treat and a lesson we were never taught but could have been perfect if screenplay was written better. Special mention to Laxman Itekar who stirred the nation with his film. Watch it with your family.

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Stories based on books are both easy and tough to adapt. Easy because you have everything on your platter and just need to present it well, yet tough because series or movies don't have the luxury to showcase everything in detail as a book does. And when the source material is an acclaimed book, expectations are sky-high.

The series is based on the 2019 non-fiction book Black Warrant: Confessions of a Tihar Jailer by Sunil Gupta and Sunetra Choudhury. The story is told from the perspective of Sunil Gupta's time as a jailer in Tihar.

We have seen many prison dramas before, but they always focus on the prisoner's point of view. Here, it's a welcome change as you get to see the jailer's perspective, which works well. It offers a completely new perception of jail life, its functioning, and its hidden truths. With seven episodes, each one focuses on a case or incident within the jail, largely exploring how young jailer Sunil Gupta adapts to its crooked ways.

Zahan Kapoor in the lead role is the perfect choice for the narrative. His boyish charm yet solid determination comes across beautifully. Rahul Bhat, Paramvir Singh Cheema, and Anurag Thakur are the other three pillars of this series, shouldering it with their strong performances. Even the supporting cast does justice to their roles. Sidhant Gupta as Charles is an intriguing character and delivers a good performance, but he feels underutilized in the narrative.

Vikramaditya Motwane once again hits it out of the park with his remarkable directorial skills, evident in both performances and cinematography. What doesn't work is the pacing-at times, it feels a bit tiring when binge-watching. Some scenes, like the capital punishment sequence, are tough to watch, so be prepared. Also, the predictability of certain moments prevents the series from reaching greater heights.

It's not perfect, but it is a solid series that brings something new to the table. You should definitely give it a try.

#PranuReviews #BlackWarrant #BlackWarrantReview.

I stumbled upon this one randomly and was pleasantly surprised. Amidst the plethora of crime and thriller content, a lighthearted drama like this offers a sense of calm.

The movie revolves around two generations of the Kaushals. A young man, Yug, wants to enjoy city life and is fed up with his parents, who live in a small town. However, when his parents decide to separate mutually, it throws his life into chaos.

It's a simple tale told as realistically as possible. The depiction of both generations is quite relatable-the way small-town people aspire to be part of the big city and how parents in smaller towns often compromise their ambitions to stay together. However, Yug's love angle feels unnatural, as it happens rather randomly and fails to connect with the audience. It could have easily been omitted.

Pavail Gulati as Yug does a good job and fits the role effortlessly. Veteran actors Sheeba Chaddha and Ashutosh Rana, as his parents, are a treat to watch and portray their parts to perfection. Isha Talwar, as the love interest, is endearing but doesn't have much to offer, ultimately feeling like an extra character. That said, the chemistry between the leads is fresh and works well.

The movie's pacing is just right, so you won't feel bored. However, the songs are below average and don't really stick with you. The courtroom drama feels overly cinematic, which dilutes the movie's authenticity.

It's not extraordinary, but its simple portrayal of slice-of-life drama works. A decent watch for some light entertainment.

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