RajyavardhanSR

Weapons (2025) opens with promise-an intriguing setup, confident pacing, and the sense that it might become one of the year's standout horror films.

I just knew the premise as I went in and had some expectations based on the reviews and my feeling towards it. But as the story unfolded, the momentum began to slip.

The chapter-based narrative flows well in pieces but turns inconsistent towards the end. The plot never finds another interesting direction. Julia Garner's performance is uneven, which ends up being one of the film's more glaring weaknesses.

The movie, being a dark comedy, is funny at times-sometimes intentionally, sometimes not-which undermines the tension. The horror elements are scarce, and the background score rarely elevates the scenes. While there are a few standout moments and effective sequences, they aren't enough to make the film feel satisfying or worth a rewatch. In the end, it's a technically competent but uneven experience that left me underwhelmed.

I recently found out about Late Pankaj Advani just after I finished watching Sankat City. I see some spark, something that made me look for him. I found out that he unfortunately passed away pretty young.

While the former is sad, it is beautiful that I get to know someone for the first time, decades after their death; not through some historical account but by his own work.

Cape Karma is one such expression of the person that Advani supposedly was, the narrative ebbs and flows but the ideas are ripe, the characters have something to say even though their lack of craft may be a hinderance in their expression.

The movie feels like a home movie made for very private and intimate watching. It isn't inaccessible as almost all thoughts are well-portrayed. Rahul Dev looks the part, everyone else, not so much.

It isn't the craft of the movie itself but the intention behind it, the labour behind it and the people backing the project that conveyed something to me. I'm happy I got to see it and to cherish the craft and thoughts of my fellow people.

Rajyavardhan S.

24.

This is a heartfelt and well-crafted film and Abhishek Bachchan delivers one of his most controlled and thoughtful performances. Some knockouts in a row for him now with Dasvi and I want to talk. He brings out the small details of his character with care, without ever going over the top.

But someone is better than him in this one, it is the child actor, who is excellent. His performance is natural and moving, and his scenes give the film a lot of emotional depth. The bond between his character and Abhishek's feels real and touching.

The supporting cast also does a terrific job, Zeeshan in his small parts turns his earnest best. The locations have been chosen very well and they add to the mood of the film without distracting from the story.

Most importantly, the story is strong. It is simple but emotional, and it has been told with honesty. Such a thoughtful and sincere piece of art which leaves a lasting impression.