Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story

USA 2017

Details IMDB

Seen 17 March 2018

Ratings from other sources

IMDB 7.3/10

Rottentomatoes 8.0/10

My impressions

The perception that a beautiful woman with brains is a misnomer may not be too far-fetched in this case. A beautiful woman, well known actress could not be more than that. A product of the factory system in film making.

But she was naturally inclined towards more cerebral pursuits and found satisfaction with projects that challenges her thinking. A fact that many do not know or refuse to acknowledge.

Only in hindsight do we realise the machinations used by the movie moguls in producing their assembly line films. In part, it does explain the sad state of the star’s personal life.

Her achievements may have been dismissed during her heyday, but she is a pioneer. The accolade came late and her contribution is now recognised as a fact.

Beauty and brains do exist together.

The Pass

UK 2016

Details IMDB

Seen 16 Jan 2018

Ratings from other sources

IMDB 6.4/10

Rottentomatoes 7.0/10

My impressions

What happened during those teenage years, was it a one-off incident or a culmination of deeper feelings that had previously remained latent.

It happened the night before the big game and marked the beginning of the different career paths of their lives.

Meeting again after all has passed, do the emotions remain? So many questions needed to be answered, doubts linger.

Shall it just pass as a mark in a past life?

Call Me by Your Name

Italy 2017

Details IMDB

Seen 11 Jan 2018

Ratings from other sources

IMDB 8.4/10

Rottentomatoes 8.8/10

My impressions

Love blossoms during the summer. But is it really that deep feeling and affection one has for another. Or is this a case of the age difference colouring everything in pastel hues.

In the beginning it was even unthinkable that such feelings could arise between them. But being together brought the romance to the surface and each moment is cherished.

Alas, reality comes knocking.

The Disaster Artist

USA 2017

Details IMDB

Seen 10 Jan 2018

Ratings from other sources

IMDB 7.9/10

Rrottentomatoes 7.8/10

My impressions

Mad, incomprehensible and definitely in his own world. An artist to himself but others who are used to the normal way of looking at things might not be able to appreciate his talents and insights.

His behaviour does seem ludicrous but if you follow his rhythm, you may find a gem. A bottomless source of income helps a lot in maintaining his allure and mystery.

Till the end, there will be doubts anyone could fathom his true self.

Lady Bird

USA 2017

Details IMDB

Seen 10 Jan 2018

Ratings from other sources

IMDB 8.0/10

Rottentomatoes 8.8/10

My impressions

Adolescent. Those years when hormones are raging, and you are the centre of the universe. Emotional highs and lows. Love and hate.

With a dialogue peppered with teenage angst and realities of adulthood, the film pulls the audience to experience the life of a teenage girl on the wrong side of the tracks. Friendship and love, intermingled. Family squabbles and realisations.

A wondrous ride.

Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri

USA 2017

Details IMDB

Seen 9 Jan 2018

Ratings from other sources

IMDB 8.3/10

Rottentomatoes 8.6/10

My impressions

Does one forget a lost or do we keep trying to find answers? In this case, the main character decides to take matters in her own hands. Despite the misgivings others may have about her methods.

The obstacles, taunts and threats do not deter her. Determined or blinded by her conviction, that no matter what happens, she must carry on finding the truth.

Along the way, incidents happened that might have swayed her to change tactics. Nevertheless, she kept going.

Onward towards a conclusion.

Will there be a stop?

The Shape of Water

USA 2017

Details IMDB

Seen 8 Jan 2018

Ratings from other sources

IMDB 8.1/10

Rrottentomatoes 8.4/10

My impressions

It is such a joy seeing this film even though the story covers many of the darker sides of the human nature.

How the majority dismisses those on the periphery. Anything that is not understood is cast aside, to be destroyed if possible after extracting whatever benefit or profit that could be gained.

A love story, with the bad and good guys. In the end, who knows.

Satisfying watch.

I, Tonya

I, Tonya

USA 2017

Details IMDB

Seen 6 Jan 2018

Ratings from other sources

IMDB 7.7/10

Rottentomatoes 7.9/10

My impressions

Based on the life of Tonya Harding, the American ice skater who rose to the top but unfortunately circumstances prevented her from maintaining that position for long.

Her childhood, the growing up years, the sacrifices and determination combined to make her that person adored by many during her peak. But one incident put paid to all that.

Then it was a struggle just to enjoy her main love, ice skating.

Sad, but hopefully she has moved on and is at peace with what she has now.