Life is about to get very interesting for writer, director, actor Sugith Varughese as he takes on Steven Soderbergh new show The Girlfriend Experience. The seasoned Renaissance man plays a partner in the law firm of the main character and will be a driving force throughout the show. With over 80 credits to his name in films, TV programs, radio drama and theater, Varughese has been nominated for several prestigious Canadian film and television awards. Selling his first script at the age of 21, he has screenwriting credits for multiple episodes of the Muppet series “Fraggle Rock” among many others. He is best known for his role as ‘Faisal’ in the successful Canadian TV series “Little Mosque on the Prairie,” a sitcom now seen in over 85 countries and currently available on Hulu (as “Little Mosque”), “Degrassi: The Next Generation,” and films including Best of Both Worlds, Orphan and Mission to Mars.
Q:Were you a fan of Soderbergh’s film before you took the role?
I was and am a HUGE fan of Soderbergh’s work before I ever learned about this series. I have the original published version of his screenplay for Sex, Lies and Videotape and it kills me that I didn’t cross paths with him on the right day to try and get him to sign it! What I love about his films—beyond the tremendous range in style of story—are the performances. He understands how to work with actors and he’s able to cast them perfectly then let them do work they have never done. I’m thinking of Michael Douglas and Matt Damon in Behind the Candelabra and Julia Roberts in Erin Brockovich, for example. Award-winning performances aren’t an accident in his movies.
Q:What sort of research did you do to prepare for the series?
I had very little time to prepare as I was cast in the part just a few days before we started filming. So I didn’t worry about the legal aspect of the character at all. I let the writing worry about that. I focused on what I could bring to the character that was uniquely me. Being the son of immigrants myself, I felt Tariq Barr would have a similar background and as such would not be in that job because of any old boys club. He’d have had to be twice as good as anyone else to get that position. That isn’t in the script per se, but it’s something I felt strongly about and so that coloured my approach. He is a touch arrogant because he knows that he is the smartest in the room. And he doesn’t even dress quite like the other lawyers. I spent a lot of time with our amazing costumer talking about him and she came up with little touches in my wardrobe to set him off in that light. For example, you might notice that I always wear a pocket square unlike the other lawyers. It’s the little things like that which enhance the storytelling, I think.
Q:As both an actor and a writer how do you approach a role like this?
I’m a journeyman actor and a journeyman scriptwriter and I’ve also directed short films. I’ve come to realize that they are all the same job: storytelling. But they use different tools. Acting requires a sense of self—what is the aspect of me that is the character? Because I’m a writer, I rely on the script to do the heavy lifting, so for the acting, I try and do the things that the script can’t do. For example, when I act, I find it really important to figure out how a character walks. The physical stuff, the wardrobe, the way you speak, if you can understand what makes sense in terms of the story, then distill them so that when you are acting, it all happens subconsciously, then I think you’re doing your job as an actor.
Q:What is your dream role?
I would kill to be in the new Star Trek series! Science Officer? Or even Captain? Time for a desi Captain of the Enterprise!
Q:Since you are an actor, writer, and director, do you have any interest in writing/directing an episode of the series?
Of course, I’d love to write and/or direct for the show. Mostly because of the chance to work with the incredible cast and crew again. You hear that a lot at awards where the cast and crew get thanked but believe me, this one was one of the best I’ve ever been a part of. I saw Paul Sparks at the premiere of the series in New York City and we both agreed that we missed the show. It was fun!
As an anime enthusiast and entertainment journalist, I’ve curated a list of the top five must-see anime series of 2024. These selections showcase the diversity and creativity that define the medium, offering compelling narratives and stunning animation.
Delicious in Dungeon
This series combines culinary arts with fantasy adventure, following a group of dungeon explorers who cook and eat the monsters they defeat. The unique premise and mouth-watering depictions of fantasy cuisine make it a standout this year. Kaiju No. 8
Set in a world plagued by kaiju attacks, the story centers on a protagonist who gains the ability to transform into a kaiju himself. The series offers a fresh take on the kaiju genre, blending action with deep character development.
Kaiju No. 8
Set in a world plagued by kaiju attacks, the story centers on a protagonist who gains the ability to transform into a kaiju himself. The series offers a fresh take on the kaiju genre, blending action with deep character development. Solo Leveling
Adapted from the popular web novel, this anime follows a weak hunter who becomes the world’s strongest after a mysterious system grants him unique abilities. Its dynamic animation and gripping storyline have captivated audiences worldwide.
Solo Leveling
Adapted from the popular web novel, this anime follows a weak hunter who becomes the world’s strongest after a mysterious system grants him unique abilities. Its dynamic animation and gripping storyline have captivated audiences worldwide. The Elusive Samurai
Set in feudal Japan, this historical series follows a young samurai who uses his agility and wit to survive in a turbulent era. The anime’s blend of historical context and engaging action sequences has garnered critical acclaim.
The Elusive Samurai
Set in feudal Japan, this historical series follows a young samurai who uses his agility and wit to survive in a turbulent era. The anime’s blend of historical context and engaging action sequences has garnered critical acclaim. Dragon Ball Daima
The latest installment in the iconic Dragon Ball franchise, this series introduces new transformations and challenges for Goku and his friends. Its high-octane battles and nostalgic elements appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers.
Dragon Ball Daima
The latest installment in the iconic Dragon Ball franchise, this series introduces new transformations and challenges for Goku and his friends. Its high-octane battles and nostalgic elements appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers. These anime series exemplify the innovation and storytelling prowess that continue to drive the medium’s global popularity. Whether you’re a seasoned otaku or new to anime, these titles are essential viewing for 2024.
“Mechanic Rocky” is a 2024 Indian Telugu-language action comedy film that marks the directorial debut of Ravi Teja Mullapudi, who also penned the script. Produced by Ram Talluri under SRT Entertainments, the film features Vishwak Sen in the titular role, with Meenakshi Chaudhary and Shraddha Srinath as the female leads. The technical crew includes Manojh Reddy Katasani handling cinematography, Anwar Ali in charge of editing, and Jakes Bejoy composing the music.
The narrative centers on Rakesh, affectionately known as Rocky, a cheerful mechanic who operates his family’s auto repair shop. His life takes a tumultuous turn when he becomes entangled with two women, Apsara and Priya, both of whom develop romantic interests in him. Complications escalate as Ranki Reddy, a ruthless land grabber portrayed by Sunil, sets his sights on Rocky’s garage, leading to a series of confrontations that blend action, drama, and elements of comedy.
Vishwak Sen delivers a commendable performance, embodying Rocky with a blend of charm and intensity that resonates well with the audience. Meenakshi Chaudhary and Shraddha Srinath provide solid support, each bringing depth to their respective roles. Sunil’s portrayal of the antagonist adds a compelling layer to the film, enhancing the overall narrative.
The film’s music, composed by Jakes Bejoy, complements the storyline effectively, with tracks like “Gulledu Gulledu” and “Oo Pillo” standing out for their catchy tunes and engaging choreography.
Critically, “Mechanic Rocky” has received mixed reviews. The Times of India describes it as “an underdog tale blending drama, action, and redemption,” highlighting its genre-blending approach. Great Andhra notes that the film “feels like two different films,” with a tedious first half and a more engaging second half. 123telugu.com echoes this sentiment, stating that while the second half is gripping, the first half is dull, ultimately calling it a “decent watch.”
In conclusion, “Mechanic Rocky” offers a blend of action, comedy, and drama, with strong performances and engaging music. However, its uneven pacing and predictable plot developments may detract from the overall experience for some viewers. As an entertainment journalist and Indian cinema enthusiast, I would rate “Mechanic Rocky” a 6 out of 10, acknowledging its strengths while noting areas where it could have delivered more effectively.
Rating: 8/10
Director: Robert Eggers
Writer: Robert Eggers
Studio: Focus Features
Cast: Bill Skarsgård (Count Orlok), Lily-Rose Depp (Ellen), Nicholas Hoult (Thomas Hutter)
Robert Eggers’ Nosferatu (2024) is a stunning reimagining of F.W. Murnau’s 1922 silent horror classic, blending a gothic atmosphere with Eggers’ meticulous attention to historical authenticity. The film succeeds in delivering an eerie, slow-burn horror experience that respects its source material while bringing a modern edge to the genre.
Bill Skarsgård shines as the grotesque and unsettling Count Orlok, his performance capturing the monster’s primal terror with chilling intensity. Opposite him, Lily-Rose Depp brings emotional depth to Ellen, combining vulnerability and quiet strength as she navigates Orlok’s dark obsession. Nicholas Hoult’s portrayal of Thomas Hutter adds a grounded, human element to the supernatural narrative, providing a strong counterbalance to the horror.
The film is a visual triumph, with cinematographer Jarin Blaschke’s use of chiaroscuro lighting creating a hauntingly gothic ambiance reminiscent of German Expressionism. Every frame is a masterpiece, enriched by intricate period-accurate production design and costumes. Robin Carolan’s haunting score enhances the foreboding tone, immersing audiences in the shadowy world of 19th-century Europe.
Eggers’ direction is deliberate, favoring atmosphere and tension over jump scares. This methodical approach may challenge viewers seeking more conventional horror pacing but rewards patience with an experience steeped in dread and unease.
However, the film’s stylized nature can create a sense of emotional detachment for some audiences, and its slow pacing may not resonate universally. Despite these minor critiques, Nosferatu stands as a testament to Eggers’ commitment to crafting meaningful, atmospheric cinema.
For fans of gothic horror and classic cinema, Nosferatu is a must-see that revitalizes a seminal narrative with artistry and reverence.
Top Five anime in 2024
Mechanic Rocky
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