Streaming
Charlie Covell Brings us into a World of KAOS!
Gods, monsters, tongues being removed, women turned into bees, and is that Billie Piper?!?
Netflix’s KAOS, created by Charlie Covell, is a veritable mezze platter of Greek mythology, contentious issues, and a fantastic soundtrack. Jeff Goldblum was a bold choice for the King of Gods; Zeus, but it works. And the man is treated like a god anyway.
Goldblum treats us to a fantastic performance of a ‘man’ drunk on power who inevitably devolves into paranoia and cruelty. The rest of the cast is fantastic despite not being as instantly recognizable as Goldblum. I particularly liked Janet McTeer’s portrayal of the Queen of the Gods; Hera. She’s a straight-talking, conniving, and all-around badass bitch (if you forgive the phrasing). Zeus’s son, the demigod Dionysus (Nabhaan Rizwan) has quite the arc, going from a spoiled child to an emotionally vulnerable master of his own fate. Special mention goes to his sweet, sweet style.
But how does one take a mishmash of Greek myths and make them palatable for the modern world?
Well, for starters you have Prometheus (Stephen Dillane) as the story’s narrator, chained to his rock wearing only tight red undies. As some may know Prometheus famously suffered an immortal punishment meted out by Zeus. For giving fire to the humans Prometheus was chained to a mountain where Zeus sent an eagle to eat his replenishing liver for evermore. In KAOS Zeus describes Prometheus as his “best friend” whom he summons magically from Prometheus’s torture spot to have frequent tête-à-tête with the commander and chief. Guess that’s the way Zeus treats his friends.
My personal knowledge of Greek myths is mostly drawn from the Disney Hercules movie and Eddie Izzard’s sketches. This is fitting as comedienne Eddie Izzard plays one of ‘The Fates’. The Fates in Greek mythology traditionally; spin, measure, and cut human life like a thread. Izzard’s character; Lachesis who cuts the thread, oozes her trademark wit and charisma. In mythology, the entrance of the Underworld is a cave. In KAOS ‘The Cave’ is a dive bar inhabited by the pool playing Fates and instead of a cyclops guarding the entrance, an eyepatch-wearing bartender.
You don’t have to be Greek Mythology scholar to understand KAOS (though it would maybe help). There is plenty of Easter Eggs hidden for the more eagle-eyed viewer. The prominent placement of a pomegranate in episode one and episode eight (finale). In Greek mythology one of the symbols of a pomegranate is the life and death cycle, which is very fitting for this particular narrative. Some viewers have noticed that Billie Piper’s role as downtrodden prophet Cassandra (she’s looked better) hints at one of the show’s many big twists in episode one. It is clear KAOS will benefit from multiple viewings.
The best thing about KAOS is that it does stand as its own story. As a modern retelling, it fits nicely into current sociopolitical conversations. For example; Zeus and his family want the myths to be maintained in order to provide distraction to what the gods are actually doing.
When Zeus sees that the human’s fear of him is waning he summons natural disasters (fire, plagues, floods…y’know the usual stuff) to scare the humans into submission and pleading worship. As he explains to Dionysus: “And it can start as something real, real small. Like the rape of one woman, the death of one child. Because if you get it right, it can set families and continents ablaze.”
Sound familiar at all?
There is also a sad familiarity with the way the refugees of the destroyed city of Troy are marginalized and segregated in Krete. They appear to be ghettoized in ‘Troytown’ and victimized by the local police force.
Covell’s writing also gives the female characters more agency than their mythological counterparts. Eurydice ‘Riddy’ (Aurora Perrineau) is not just Orpheus’s (Killian Scott) doomed wife but a plucky main character with her own desires and failings. Even Hera is elevated from Zeus’s scorned wife to a major player.
I liked how the figures who traditionally had been screwed over by the gods such as Eurydice; left to languish in the Underworld courtesy of Hades. Medusa was punished for being assaulted by a man in a sacred temple. We already know Prometheus’s story. Daedalus (father of Icarus) was locked in the labyrinth with his son. All these characters are tasked with bringing down the gods in a truly spectacular fashion! Revenge is divine!
The design of the Underworld was initially quite disappointing after it was teased at the end of episode one. I assumed that the Underworld would be some fantastical gothic landscape complete with demons and the shambling, engorged souls of the damned. However, I appreciate Covell’s decision to go in the opposite direction. The Underworld is simply a bureaucratic hub run by a mild-mannered paper-pushing, middle-aged couple; Hades (David Thewlis) and Persephone (Rakie Ayola). This change makes the dark humor all the more poignant. Though still disappointed there was no James Woods. The Cerberus sniffer dogs were particularly cute.
I am excited to see what season two brings. More imaginings of Greek heroes? I’d be intrigued to see how the show would interpret Hercules. Please, bring on more dark humor, mythological remixes, and too much divine intervention. Vero! Three-and-a-half stars
Director: Sukumar
Cast: Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, Fahadh Faasil
Genre: Action, Drama
Rating: 4.5/5
Pushpa: The Rise is a raw, adrenaline-fueled ride that showcases the underbelly of the red sandalwood smuggling trade in Andhra Pradesh. Directed by Sukumar, this movie brilliantly blends high-octane action with emotionally driven storytelling, making it a must-watch for fans of Telugu cinema and action dramas.
The narrative follows Pushpa Raj (Allu Arjun), a laborer in the red sandalwood trade, as he climbs the ranks to become a powerful figure. Born into poverty and scorned for his illegitimacy, Pushpa’s journey is marked by grit, ambition, and a fierce sense of self-respect. The film deftly balances the action-packed rise of Pushpa with moments of vulnerability, particularly in his tumultuous romance with Srivalli (Rashmika Mandanna).
The antagonist, Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat (Fahadh Faasil), is introduced towards the film’s end, setting the stage for a gripping sequel. The climactic confrontation between Pushpa and Shekhawat is a masterclass in tension-building, leaving viewers eagerly awaiting Pushpa: The Rule.
Allu Arjun: This is Allu Arjun’s film through and through. His transformation into Pushpa is a revelation, from his rugged look to his unapologetic demeanor. His mannerisms, including the now-iconic shoulder rub and dialogue delivery, make Pushpa an unforgettable character.
Rashmika Mandanna: While her role as Srivalli adds emotional depth to the story, it feels slightly underutilized. However, her chemistry with Allu Arjun is undeniable.
Fahadh Faasil: Despite limited screen time, Fahadh delivers a chilling performance as the cold and calculating Shekhawat. His presence promises an explosive conflict in the sequel.
Sukumar’s direction is stellar, balancing mass appeal with nuanced storytelling. The screenplay maintains a brisk pace, seamlessly weaving action sequences with character development. The film’s raw and grounded tone is a departure from the glossy feel of many mainstream Telugu films, adding authenticity to the story.
Mirosław Kuba Brożek’s cinematography is stunning, capturing the lush forests of Andhra Pradesh and the gritty world of the red sandalwood trade.
Devi Sri Prasad’s music is another highlight. Tracks like “Srivalli” and “Oo Antava” became cultural phenomena, while the background score enhanced the film’s intensity.
Action Sequences: The action choreography is visceral and hard-hitting, perfectly complementing the film’s tone.
The film explores themes of ambition, class struggle, and self-respect. Pushpa’s refusal to bow down to societal norms resonates deeply, making him a relatable anti-hero. The story also critiques the systemic exploitation of laborers, adding a layer of social commentary.
Pushpa: The Rise is an exemplary action-drama that redefines the Telugu film industry’s global appeal. With a magnetic performance by Allu Arjun, stellar direction by Sukumar, and unforgettable music, it stands out as one of the best films of 2021. While it occasionally falters with some underdeveloped subplots, the overall experience is nothing short of spectacular.
4.5/5 Pushpa: The Rise is a cinematic feast that deserves its cult status. Whether you’re a fan of Telugu action films or a newcomer, this film is a must-watch. Its cliffhanger ending ensures that Pushpa: The Rule will be even bigger and better.
Director: Prashanth Neel
Cast: Yash, Sanjay Dutt, Raveena Tandon, Srinidhi Shetty
Genre: Action, Drama
Rating: 4.5/5
KGF: Chapter 2 is an explosive sequel to the 2018 blockbuster KGF: Chapter 1. Directed by Prashanth Neel, the film elevates the gritty narrative of Rocky (played by Yash), a man who rises from poverty to become a feared and revered leader. The sequel builds on the success of the first chapter with an even grander scale, intense drama, and jaw-dropping action sequences.
The story picks up with Rocky establishing his dominance over the Kolar Gold Fields after eliminating his rival, Garuda. As the “king of KGF,” Rocky faces new challenges, including the vengeful Adheera (Sanjay Dutt), who returns to reclaim what he believes is rightfully his. Meanwhile, political power struggles arise, with Prime Minister Ramika Sen (Raveena Tandon) intent on curbing Rocky’s influence.
The film delves deeper into Rocky’s psyche, exploring his motivations, vulnerabilities, and unrelenting ambition. It balances high-octane action with emotional depth, as Rocky continues his fight for survival and legacy.
Yash’s Star Power: Yash’s portrayal of Rocky is magnetic. His intensity and swagger make the character larger-than-life while retaining a raw, emotional core.
Sanjay Dutt as Adheera: Inspired by Viking warriors, Dutt’s Adheera is a terrifying and formidable antagonist, creating memorable clashes with Rocky.
Visual and Technical Brilliance: The cinematography by Bhuvan Gowda captures the grandeur and darkness of KGF with stunning visuals. The action sequences are choreographed to perfection, blending realism with spectacle.
Ravi Basrur’s Music: The background score enhances the drama, creating an immersive experience.
Dialogues and Screenplay: Rocky’s punchlines, combined with the tightly written narrative, keep the audience engaged.
While the film is a cinematic treat, its pacing occasionally falters with some scenes overstaying their welcome. The sprawling cast and multiple subplots can make the narrative feel dense at times.
KGF: Chapter 2 is a roaring success that delivers on its promise of being bigger, bolder, and better than its predecessor. It combines a compelling story with spectacular action and unforgettable performances, particularly from Yash and Sanjay Dutt. The film solidifies the KGF franchise as a benchmark for Indian action cinema.
Final Rating: 4.5/5 Whether you’re a fan of action-packed epics or compelling character-driven dramas, KGF: Chapter 2 is a must-watch that will leave you exhilarated.
Indian cinema has a long-standing tradition of delivering grand narratives that are equal parts spectacle and soul. KGF: Chapter 1 (Kolar Gold Fields), directed by Prashanth Neel, is a prime example. This gripping action-drama chronicles the meteoric rise of Rocky, a man driven by a promise and fueled by his hunger for power. Released to critical acclaim, KGF has redefined the boundaries of storytelling in Indian cinema.
Set in the 1970s, KGF follows the journey of Rocky (Yash), a young boy born into poverty in the slums of Mumbai. From a tender age, Rocky is shaped by two forces: his mother’s dying wish for him to rise above his circumstances and his unyielding ambition to command respect and fear.
His journey takes him to the gold mines of Kolar, a lawless land ruled by brutal oppressors. The film tracks Rocky’s transformation from a street-smart hustler to a feared force who challenges an empire built on blood and exploitation.
The strength of KGF lies in its compelling protagonist. Yash delivers a magnetic performance as Rocky, embodying both his raw charisma and ruthless determination. The film paints a vivid picture of a man who thrives in adversity, using every setback as fuel for his ascent. Rocky is not a mere vigilante but a strategist, whose ability to inspire loyalty and strike fear sets him apart.
The movie captures his internal conflict beautifully — while he climbs the ladder of power, he never loses sight of his mother’s dream for him. This duality makes Rocky more than just a hero; he is a symbol of rebellion, resilience, and redemption.
At its core, KGF is a commentary on systemic oppression and the human spirit’s ability to rise against all odds. The stark contrast between the opulence of the gold fields’ rulers and the crushing poverty of its workers sets the stage for Rocky’s rebellion. His fight isn’t just personal; it’s for the voiceless, the oppressed, and the forgotten.
The film doesn’t shy away from showcasing the brutal realities of poverty and exploitation, making Rocky’s triumph all the more satisfying.
Prashanth Neel’s direction is nothing short of masterful. Every frame of KGF is meticulously crafted, from the sweeping vistas of the Kolar gold fields to the grimy underbelly of Mumbai’s streets. The gritty visuals are complemented by an electrifying background score that enhances the film’s larger-than-life moments.
The nonlinear narrative, interspersed with a journalist’s account of Rocky’s rise, keeps viewers engaged and adds layers to the storytelling.
The action sequences in KGF are a visual feast. Yash’s larger-than-life persona is amplified by choreographed fights that are brutal, balletic, and breathtaking. Each confrontation feels earned, showcasing Rocky’s ingenuity and brute strength. The climax, set against the backdrop of the Kolar gold mines, is particularly unforgettable.
KGF: Chapter 1 is a cinematic triumph that combines raw emotion, relentless action, and a protagonist you can’t help but root for. Yash’s performance and Prashanth Neel’s vision elevate the film to a league of its own, making it a benchmark in Indian cinema.
KGF is more than a film; it’s an experience. It’s a story of ambition, sacrifice, and the indomitable human spirit. Rocky’s climb from the depths of poverty to the pinnacle of power is not just inspiring — it’s electrifying.
Whether you’re a fan of action-packed dramas or epic tales of rebellion, KGF delivers on every front. With its gripping narrative and unforgettable performances, it’s a must-watch for anyone who loves a good underdog story.
Rating: 4.8/5 As Rocky says in the film, “Powerful people make places powerful.” By the end of KGF, you’ll realize that Rocky is one of them — and so is this film
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