Release date:June 24, 2016
Studio:Sony Pictures
Director:Jaume Collet-Serra
MPAA Rating:PG-13 (for bloody images, intense sequences of peril, and brief strong language)
Screenwriter:Anthony Jaswinski
Starring:Blake Lively, Oscar Jaenada, Sedona Legge
Genre:Thriller
[divider]This it’s an interesting story nonetheless. There are some very typical plot twists in addition to some pretty good jump scares (for the uninitiated)
The story starts are warmly with Nancy (played by Blake Lively) going to the beach and that her mother visited some twenty years ago. She is skimming through pictures on her phone, which you see on screen in almost a “pop-up” format. The person she is reading list speaks very little English, but does manage to remind her that there is a beautiful world to see, outside of her phone, a trend I’m seeing more and more of and one that I endorse (Ok, enough of the soapbox).
Once they arrive the scenery is absolutely gorgeous, breathtaking, in fact. There is so much beauty within such a short period of time that it’s almost hard to take it in and yet one’s eyes are, indeed, treated to an amazing blues, greens, sand colors, different textures of the rocks as well as a pristine view beneath the gentle rolling of the ocean.
When they arrive at the destination, it is almost as if the curtains of the theater have been pulled back so as to introduce us to ingenue of the production…the cove. Such a gorgeous display of nature it was quite staggering to look at.
Karen arrives on the beach alone, her friend having bailed out on her due to a case of “Irish fever”, and we see early on that she’s very prepared and organized individual, having packed a first aid kit and other necessities.
There are numerous, gorgeous, establishing shots of her surfing in something in this amazingly clear water. This is to establish why this movie is called “The Shallows”, for just barely under the waves deadly coral and rocks away to shred the first one who might show disrespect. The underwater camera work for these shots is flawless! No well the camera work was amazing, I thought that the sounds of the ocean in these early shots was off. They sounded more like gurgling coagulation then the crisp sounds of the ocean. I’m not sure if they were trying to make us feel as though we were under water with the Surfers or what, but it, for me, was definitely a distraction more than an enhancement, thankfully, later on, this is taken care of.
Now to the action; After a full day of Surfing her two new friends start to head in. While she is out there, there is a rather sudden dissipation of the surf, which was so plentiful earlier. It just stops. Weird!
It is in this place of “Solace” that she sees something on the immediate horizon, a small humpback whale that is out of men killed or just died. The weird thing here is that neither of the two other Surfers noticed this even though they were out there longer and farther out than she was. So, for some reason, she makes her way out to the decimated Beast and notices both of smell and rather good-sized bite taken out of it. Shortly after this is when we are introduced to our “main villain”.
This is where things get a little weird for me. The Beast seems to take an immediate interest in her, despite there being a full whale carcass just a few feet away from it.
The shark continues to behave uncharacteristically throughout the movie. It stalks her, pursuing her as if it had a personal Vendetta against her, even to the point of killing others around her like some psychotic boyfriend.
Karen’s only salvation, at this point, is a small piece of rock which has appeared due to the low tide and in getting there and she is attacked again, this time by piece of fire Coral which cuts and burns her pretty severely. When she message to the Rock, which is barely above the water, she’s able to tend to her wounds, and a rather clever and believable fashion. This is where becomes a waiting game. She has to figure out what to do to get yourself to safety.
There are several more close encounters with a shark and she figured out a couple more things to help her survive and eventually is able to swim to a buoy. This is where it gets strange again, she has to swim through a large, tightly packed, school of jellyfish, which appear out of nowhere. This is one of many plot holes that just don’t make sense. What are the jellyfish suddenly appear from? How is it that you can swim through dozens of jellyfish and not die?
Indian there’s an epic battle with a shark and, of course, in typical Hollywood fashion…well you know how that works out.
I will say that Blake does carry this film very effectively with equal parts of fear, pain, heroism, strength, and survival skills. I thought you did a wonderful job! The main problem I had with this film, however, is that they seem to want to capture the terror of Jaws but there’s no impetus for the sharp pursuing her in such a personal way.
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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