Movie
‘Mortal Kombat Legends Snow Blind’: The ice age of the soul
Spoilers hide in snow too!
Led by King Kano, the Black Dragon gang goes around terrorizing the wastelands of an already-defeated Earthrealm, enough to garner the attention of a very-retired Kuai Liang and a new warrior on the scene, an overconfident bravo known as Kenshi Takahashi (Manny Jacinto).
The entire story is set in the wastelands, with simple farming towns and markets so ready to be intimidated and then outright slaughtered if they fail to obey King Kano’s oh so generous offer to join his Black Dragon gang. Led by three ringleaders right out of Mad Max territory – Kabal (Keith Silverstein), Kobra (Yuri Lowenthal) and Kira (Courtenay Taylor) – the Black Dragon mercenaries take great delight in their merciless takeover of town after town, until they finally suffer an ignominious defeat at the hands of one who simply won’t kneel, Kenshi himself. And nothing would do but to come back to wreak revenge on Kenshi, aided by a Mortal Kombat-style monster known as Tremor (Imari Williams), and a much-diminished Shang Tsung (Artt Butler), now reduced to King Kano’s pet sorcerer.
Meanwhile, after a montage of monotonous simplicity on the solo farm of Kuai Liang (Ron Yuan) and a robbery of his hard-earned vegetables by our rapacious trio, the market town he sells at is in utter fear of the Black Dragon’s return, and of course it’s all Kenshi’s fault. Kuai Liang still, still, hasn’t fought back at all, matter of fact he’s been reticent to the point of silence, even while enduring beatings and humiliations. But we know, those of us familiar with Mortal Kombat and the Mortal Kombat Legends movies especially, and we’re also reminded via Kuai Liang suffering nightmarish flashbacks, that Sub-Zero’s incredible ice powers can, and have, leveled entire cities and whole armies of enemies, so perhaps his reluctance to rain an ice age on his enemies is mildly understandable.
So Kenshi Takahashi is a bravo, the self-proclaimed strongest fighter in the world, and yes, just got his arrogant little booty put through the ringer by Tremor. One sound defeat and he’s ready to toss in the proverbial towel, only to be found by a terribly sympathetic Shang Tsung, who leads him to a hidden place with a Well of Souls (such names never bode well), to get the power back to defeat his enemies and reclaim his strongest fighter in the world title. Surprising absolutely no one, Shang Tsung betrays Kenshi afresh, uncaring at his being blinded by his ancestors spirits apparently, intent on only stealing enough power to defeat King Kano. Left shattered and sightless, armed only with a magical sword that allows him to kind-of see, Kenshi literally drags himself away, and collapses on the outskirts of a particular solo farm, held by a particularly reserved not-farmer.
Elsewhere, Shang Tsung is now a-brimming with soul power and planning to lay waste to those Black Dragon baddies and especially King Kano (David Wenham), ambitious to the point of lunacy, borne on dreams of former glory. Thus commences a very Mortal Kombat style fight, where King Kano subjects Shang Tsung to a ranting diatribe about having done all this before and his lack of imagination will lead to his inevitable defeat, yet again. Despite the serious damage Kano does take he still manages to win, and we begin to wonder how the hell that actually happened, and what Kano meant by going through this nonsense, yet again.
Back on the farm, a pathetic Kenshi and a reluctant Kui Liang engage in some verbal soul-baring and come to the conclusion that even a little training would do Kenshi some good, it can’t harm him any more than he already is, right? Other than the humiliation of chasing farm chickens, of course. But while they romp a training montage that I’m guessing takes at least a few weeks, Black Dragon and King Kano are still out there, further consolidating his Kingdom through wholesale slaughter. And after the market town Kui Liang frequents is destroyed, he and his unbowed protégé decide to take the fight to Kano and his goons, over there in the unimaginatively-named K-Town, the seat of his Kingdom.
Despite being perfectly capable of laying waste to K-Town in a rather biblical fashion, Kui Liang decides to call in the marker he has with another beloved and infamous Mortal Kombat character, one who’s been languishing in a hellish afterlife since the events of the former Mortal Kombat Legends movie Scorpion’s Revenge, he was once called Hanzo but has since dubbed himself Scorpion (Patrick Seitz). And between the two of them, a newly-determined Kenshi and his soul-blade Sento, and other small if loyal extras who try to help, it’s time for a final Mortal Kombat with King Kano!
And that’s actually literally the whole problem, how this whole defeated Earthrealm business began in the first place, with time. Not the erosion of casual neglect and cheerful genocide that the Mortal Kombat Emperors and other villains are famous for, no, this is a much more simple and even idiotic explanation, that makes perfect sense when you think about it, given that the character Kano is far from a genius, wizard, or even the finest warrior in Mortal Kombat. (Fight me on it; he’s not.)
What happens in the final after all that Kombat, given Kenshi’s new mission and resolve, and the promises Kui Liang made to Hanzo and to himself, is a very Mortal Kombat style ending. Which is to say, sort-of-kind-of-not-really resolved, and we know we’ll see our beloved Kombatants in another adventure, likely featuring at least one spine-ripping moment!
Intensely violent, horrifically gross but really if you don’t already know the level of gore in Mortal Kombat from the beloved video games still on-going what are you even doing here, Snow Blind also has tons of courage and morals, valor from unexpected sources, and an underlying message of faith in oneself that anyone can appreciate.
Mortal Kombat Legends: Snow Blind comes out from Warner Bros Home Entertainment digital retailers on Oct. 9th, and out on Blu-ray Disc and 4K Ultra on Oct. 11th 2022!
Director: Gunasekhar
Studio: Sri Venkateswara Bala Kuteer
Genre: Mythological, Drama
Runtime: Approx. 133 minutes
Writers: Gunasekhar (Screenplay), Valmiki (Based on the Ramayana)
Starring: Master NTR (Lord Rama), Master Rajesh (Lakshmana), Baby Sowmya (Sita), Master Ramakrishna (Hanuman)
Indian cinema has a long-standing tradition of adapting mythological epics for the screen, and Bala Ramayanam (1996) stands out as a unique and ambitious project. Directed by Gunasekhar, this Telugu-language film is a faithful retelling of the Ramayana, featuring an all-child cast—a remarkable feat that adds a layer of innocence and charm to the story.
Master NTR, the grandson of legendary actor-politician Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao, delivers an impressive performance as Lord Rama, capturing both his divine composure and human emotions. The supporting cast, particularly Master Rajesh as Lakshmana and Baby Sowmya as Sita, bring sincerity to their roles, making the film engaging despite their young age.
Gunasekhar’s direction ensures that the grandeur of the Ramayana is upheld, with stunning sets and well-executed battle sequences. The cinematography and art direction elevate the film, bringing a divine aura to Ayodhya and Lanka alike. The music, composed by Madhavapeddi Suresh, complements the film’s devotional tone, with soul-stirring compositions that enhance the narrative.
What makes Bala Ramayanam particularly endearing is its ability to make the epic accessible to younger audiences. The film captures the essence of dharma (righteousness), devotion, and valor, while the young actors’ performances add a layer of purity rarely seen in mainstream adaptations.
While the film’s child cast might feel unconventional for some viewers, their dedication and earnest performances make Bala Ramayanam a memorable and heartwarming watch. The production values, direction, and music all contribute to its timeless appeal. For lovers of Indian mythology and classic storytelling, this film remains a delightful adaptation of the Ramayana.
Final Rating: 8.5/10
Gene Hackman, one of Hollywood’s most respected and versatile actors, passed away on February 26, 2025, at the age of 95. Known for his commanding presence and ability to bring complex characters to life, Hackman left behind an incredible legacy in film. With two Academy Awards, four Golden Globes, and a career spanning over four decades, he was an actor who could master any genre, from gritty crime dramas to heartwarming sports films.
Born on January 30, 1930, in San Bernardino, California, Hackman’s rise to fame was far from conventional. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps before pursuing acting, training at the Pasadena Playhouse alongside fellow legend Dustin Hoffman. His breakthrough came with Bonnie and Clyde (1967), and from there, his career skyrocketed. Hackman’s ability to play both heroes and villains with equal intensity made him a Hollywood powerhouse.
Top 10 Gene Hackman Movies You Need to Watch
1. The French Connection (1971)
Hackman’s Oscar-winning role as Detective Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle defined the modern cop drama, delivering one of cinema’s greatest car chases.
2. Unforgiven (1992)
As the ruthless sheriff Little Bill Daggett, Hackman earned his second Academy Award, proving his ability to embody deeply layered antagonists.
3. The Conversation (1974)
A gripping psychological thriller where Hackman plays a surveillance expert trapped in a moral crisis, showcasing his talent for quiet intensity.
4. Bonnie and Clyde (1967)
His breakout role as Buck Barrow in this groundbreaking crime film introduced audiences to Hackman’s natural charisma.
5. Mississippi Burning (1988)
In one of his most powerful performances, Hackman plays an FBI agent investigating civil rights crimes, earning him another Oscar nomination.
6. Superman (1978)
As Lex Luthor, Hackman brought a mix of charm and menace to the iconic comic book villain, making him a fan favorite.
7. Hoosiers (1986)
A classic underdog sports film where Hackman shines as the determined and passionate high school basketball coach Norman Dale.
8. Crimson Tide (1995)
This intense submarine thriller pits Hackman against Denzel Washington in a gripping battle of leadership and ethics.
9. The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)
Hackman’s turn as the eccentric and dysfunctional patriarch Royal Tenenbaum proved his comedic and dramatic brilliance.
10. The Firm (1993)
Playing a morally ambiguous mentor in this legal thriller, Hackman added depth to one of the decade’s biggest hits.
Gene Hackman retired from acting in 2004, but his influence remains undeniable. His performances shaped modern cinema, inspiring actors and filmmakers alike. Whether playing a hard-nosed detective, a ruthless villain, or a flawed hero, Hackman had the rare ability to make every role unforgettable. His passing marks the end of an era, but his films will continue to captivate audiences for generations to come.
Director: Laxman Utekar
Starring: Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna, Akshaye Khanna
Genre: Historical Action
Running Time: 161 minutes
Final Rating: 4/5 A powerful, immersive experience that demands to be seen on the big screen.
HAR HAR MAHADEV! From the very first frame, Chhaava announces itself as a bold and exhilarating cinematic spectacle. Laxman Utekar crafts an epic introduction, throwing us directly into the battlefield where Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj (Vicky Kaushal) confronts the relentless Mughal invaders. The cinematography is nothing short of breathtaking, capturing the grandeur of war, the ferocity of battle, and the indomitable spirit of one of India’s greatest warriors.
This film is more than just an action-packed historical drama—it is a deep dive into India’s rich heritage. The legacy of the Maratha Empire, the resilience of its kings, and the undying spirit that defied foreign invaders are brought to life with remarkable intensity. Chhaava does not merely recount history; it ignites pride and reverence for the past.
Vicky Kaushal, in his portrayal of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, commands the screen with a performance that is both ferocious and deeply introspective. He seamlessly balances the warrior’s relentless drive with the gentle wisdom of a ruler, embodying the weight of legacy and the burden of destiny. His presence in the climax scene is nothing short of electrifying—without spoilers, it is a moment that truly seals the emotional and thematic weight of the film.
Rashmika Mandanna delivers a powerful supporting performance as the empress, bringing both grace and fire to her role. While her portrayal may not reach the iconic levels of her Pushpa performances, she excels in conveying silent rage, restrained agony, and the poised strength of a queen. Her moments of quiet defiance and deep emotional conflict add layers to the narrative, making her an essential part of the film’s heart.
Stepping into the role of the Mughal Emperor, Akshaye Khanna delivers a compelling performance as the antagonist. His portrayal is nuanced, bringing out the frustration and obsession of an emperor determined to conquer the Deccan, only to find himself thwarted by the bloodline of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. His expressions of despair and fury as history repeats itself are some of his finest acting moments.
Chhaava is a grand theatrical experience that blends history, action, and emotion into a stirring tribute to India’s warrior legacy. The film’s scale, cinematography, and performances ensure that it remains engaging throughout its 161-minute runtime. Beyond just a historical drama, it poses a profound question—if a single mortal could embody such power and devotion, imagine the divine force he worshipped.
This is more than a film; it is a cinematic homage to the legends, deities, and myths that shape India’s identity. As the credits roll, one thing is certain—Chhaava is a rousing call to explore the depths of India’s historical and spiritual grandeur on the big screen.
HAR HAR MAHADEV!
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