Rating: ★★★★☆
“65” is an intense Indian thriller film that grips you from the opening scene and doesn’t let go until the final credits roll. Directed by Hemant Madhukar, this action-packed drama takes viewers on a rollercoaster ride through the underbelly of Mumbai’s crime world, delivering a captivating story that keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout its runtime.
The film revolves around the life of Arjun Kapoor (played by Vijay Sethupathi), a seasoned narcotics officer who finds himself caught in a web of corruption, betrayal, and redemption. As Arjun delves deeper into his investigation, he uncovers a sinister conspiracy that not only threatens his life but also the lives of his loved ones. The narrative explores the murky realms of the drug trade, weaving together multiple subplots with finesse and keeping the audience engaged with its unpredictable twists and turns.
One of the film’s greatest strengths is its well-written screenplay. The dialogue is crisp and impactful, immersing viewers in the gritty world of the characters. The pacing is relentless, ensuring there is never a dull moment. The film balances high-octane action sequences with moments of quiet introspection, allowing the characters to breathe and giving the audience a chance to connect with them on a deeper level.
Vijay Sethupathi delivers a powerhouse performance as Arjun Kapoor. His portrayal is nuanced and brings out the complexities of the character’s inner turmoil. Sethupathi effortlessly commands the screen with his presence, capturing the essence of a man determined to uncover the truth at any cost. The supporting cast, including actors like Aparshakti Khurana and Nandita Swetha, also deliver solid performances, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative.
Visually, “65” is a treat for the eyes. The cinematography by Manoj Paramahamsa is stylish and immersive, capturing the vibrant streets of Mumbai and the seedy underbelly with equal finesse. The action sequences are expertly choreographed, showcasing a raw and realistic depiction of hand-to-hand combat. The film’s dark and moody color palette complements the overall tone and adds to the sense of foreboding that hangs over the story.
In terms of direction, Hemant Madhukar displays a firm grasp of storytelling. He skillfully balances the various narrative threads, seamlessly weaving them together to create a coherent and engaging whole. Madhukar’s ability to create tension and build suspense is commendable, keeping the audience guessing and engrossed in the unfolding events.
While “65” excels in many aspects, there are a few minor shortcomings. Some subplots could have been further explored and given more depth, as they occasionally feel rushed. Additionally, certain characters could have been better developed to enhance their impact on the overall story. Nevertheless, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise enthralling cinematic experience.
In conclusion, “65” is a gripping thriller that leaves you breathless from start to finish. With its strong performances, well-crafted screenplay, and superb direction, the film takes you on a thrilling journey into the dark underbelly of Mumbai’s crime world. Hemant Madhukar proves his mettle as a director, and Vijay Sethupathi delivers a standout performance that further solidifies his reputation as a versatile actor. If you’re a fan of intense and gritty thrillers, “65” is a must-watch. Prepare to be captivated, thrilled, and left longing for more.
Rating: ★★★★★
Top Gun is a 1986 American action drama film directed by Tony Scott and produced by Don Simpson and Jerry Bruckheimer. The film stars Tom Cruise, Kelly McGillis, and Val Kilmer.
The story follows the character of Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, a young and talented United States Navy aviator who is selected to attend the elite Top Gun flight school. Maverick is a skilled pilot but has a reckless attitude, which often puts him at odds with his fellow students and instructors. He becomes friends with his radar intercept officer, Nick “Goose” Bradshaw and falls in love with a civilian instructor, Charlotte “Charlie” Blackwood.
Maverick struggles to prove himself at Top Gun, as he is constantly overshadowed by his rival, Tom “Iceman” Kazansky, who is a more disciplined and focused pilot. However, Maverick’s skills are put to the test when a training exercise goes wrong and Goose is killed. Maverick is wracked with guilt and becomes determined to be the best pilot he can be, in honor of Goose’s memory.
The climax of the film is a dogfight with a group of hostile MiGs, in which Maverick and Iceman are able to successfully defend their carrier and shoot down the enemy planes. After the mission, Maverick is awarded the Top Gun trophy and begins a relationship with Charlie.
Top Gun was a commercial success, grossing over $356 million worldwide and becoming the highest-grossing film of 1986. The film received mixed reviews from critics, but was praised for its action sequences and the performances of Cruise and Kilmer. The film’s success also led to a resurgence in popularity for military aviation, and the United States Navy even reported a spike in recruitment after the film’s release. The film also featured the hit song “Take My Breath Away” by Berlin which won an Academy Award for Best Original Song.
Overall, Top Gun is a thrilling and exciting film that showcases the dangerous and exhilarating world of naval aviation. With a compelling story, excellent action sequences, and strong performances by its lead actors, the film is a classic of the action genre and continues to be a favorite among audiences today.
Rating: ★★★★★
Top Gun: Maverick is the highly-anticipated sequel to the 1986 hit film Top Gun. The movie follows Pete “Maverick” Mitchell (Tom Cruise), who is now a flight instructor at the Top Gun school. Despite his success as an instructor, Maverick is still haunted by the death of his wingman in the original film, and struggles to come to terms with the changes in the world of aviation since his glory days as a fighter pilot.
The film opens with a thrilling aerial sequence that sets the tone for the rest of the movie. The visuals are stunning and the use of 3D and IMAX technology immerses the audience into the action. The dogfight scenes are intense and well choreographed, making it a feast for the eyes. The use of practical effects, alongside CGI, give a more realistic feel to the movie. The attention to detail in the flight sequences is truly impressive and makes it easy to believe the actors are really flying fighter jets.
Cruise once again delivers a strong performance as Maverick. He brings depth and nuance to the character, showing us a man who is struggling to come to terms with the past and find his place in the present. He is able to convey a sense of longing and regret that is palpable. The supporting cast is also strong. Miles Teller plays the role of Bradley Bradshaw, the son of Maverick’s deceased wingman. He brings a sense of vulnerability and humanity to the role and provides a strong emotional anchor for the film. Jennifer Connelly plays the role of a civilian contractor working with the Navy, her character serves as a love interest for Maverick and brings a sense of new freshness.
The movie also touches on themes such as technology advancements, the relationship between human and AI, the passage of time and how it affects the characters. It shows the changes in the aviation industry since the first film, and how it has impacted the characters. This theme is brought to life in a powerful way, and it gives the film a relevance and weight that makes it more than just a mindless action flick.
That being said, the movie is also not without its flaws. The plot can be a bit convoluted and certain elements don’t always seem fully developed or fleshed out. The relationship between Maverick and Bradshaw also seems to be rushed, and could have been given more time to develop. Additionally, some of the dialogue feels a bit wooden and formulaic. But these issues are minor when compared to the overall experience of the film.
Overall, Top Gun: Maverick is a thrilling and visually stunning action film that lives up to the legacy of the original. The movie is a worthy successor, Tom Cruise’s Maverick character, is as engaging as ever, and the story is still relevant in today’s world. If you’re a fan of the original, you won’t be disappointed. The movie delivers a powerful emotional punch, and will leave you feeling exhilarated and entertained. With great action sequences, stunning visuals, and strong performances, Top Gun: Maverick is a must-see film.