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Twisted Metal: Save me EV3L1N! 

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Based on a vehicular combat video game franchise of the same name from Sony Online Entertainment, Twisted Metal is a post-apocalyptic nightmare of survival with souped-up cars, modded guns, and crazed other raiders!

So meet the world as it currently is, a good old-fashioned sh*t-show. Awhile ago something big and nasty wiped out computers, and the internet, and then electricity, and civility was left in the dust as everyone began fighting everyone else for whatever was left. The cities that were left walled themselves off and left the bad element of society, the killers and thieves and misfits, all who didn’t fit in with the new societal norms were ousted and left to fend for themselves against other Mad Max-style marauders, with their own modded cars and guns. 

Our protagonist is the Milkman, John Doe (Anthony Mackie), a man with a past he can’t remember and only a photo to remind him, who, as his handle suggests, makes delivery runs of needed supplies between various areas. He is effortlessly charming, cheerfully employs explosive countermeasures against other marauders in his beloved car EV3L1N, bombs epic 90’s nostalgia tunes from her speakers, and is somehow one of the more free people still alive in this post-apocalyptic world. The only thing is, John Doe is lonely, and has no place he calls Home. Then one day, John gets called in to meet the leader of New San Fracisco, Raven (Neve Campbell).  

Life in this world of after-the-disaster is often about appearances, style over substance, and the song and dance Raven sells John Doe about giving him a Home in New San Fracisco, a place to belong amongst the not-at-all-subjugated denizens, with access to meat and sporting things like alive babies and OMGdude toilet paper, sounds very much too good to be true. Because it is. However, the trip all the way from New San Francisco to Chicago to pick up a package for Raven with a ten-day deadline, is right up the Milkmans alley, and it’s unlikely any other delivery man has the audacity to pull it off. 

But the road to Chicago is fraught with peril, especially from the mad murderous clown known as Sweet Tooth that’s taken over the entirety of Vegas, as John Doe’s friend the Mapmaker Tommy (Lou Beatty Jr.) repeatedly warns. 

In this post-apocalyptic world there will likely always be folk who want things to go back to order, with rules and laws and consequences, usually taking a bit too far and murderous in the process. Enter self-proclaimed Agent Stone (Thomas Hayden Church), the head lawman of this brave new world, determined to bring the full force of his version of the law down on the dregs of outcast society here beyond the walls of the cities. He has good old-fashioned executions after long pompous speeches about how he’s doing the new world a favor by cleaning it up, all under the putative protective banner of the badge, and recruits by means fair or foul other would-be ACAB acolytes. And the execution of a sibling pair of car thieves, one very Loud (Richard Cabral) and one dubbed Quiet (Stephanie Beatriz) later, is the perfect example to leave as a message to other would-be lawbreakers. 

Making the run from New San Francisco to Chicago is always better with a co-pilot, or would be if she spoke at all. Somehow Quiet and John Doe are thrown together for better or worse to make this run, John even naively thinks he can convince Raven to allow Quiet’s entrance into New San Francisco too, for helping him. 

You wouldn’t think a killer psychotic clown would need a backstory, much less a semi-relatable one, but Sweet Tooth has one and it’s actually pretty good. The body actor for Sweet Tooth (Joe Seanoa) accompanied by the unexpected affable everyman drawl of Will Arnett for his voice, is a real treat, as he cheerfully lops off arms and heads, all while explaining about the need for closure with his various traumas, often suddenly and violently and all over the place. Despite his penchant for sudden ultra-violence, Sweet Tooth is actually what could be considered a good guy in this post-apocalyptic disaster of a world, where people will quite literally kill you over the last half-bag of doggie chow. Sweet Tooth cares about things like emotional scars and the need for entertainment and lauding your artists, often yes at the expense of several audience member lives, but you can’t make a fantastic omelette without beating the hell out of the eggs! And when Sweet Tooth comes across a down on his luck about to be killed by the supposed cops type of dude, the aptly named Stu (Mike Mitchell), who had so recently been betrayed by his pal Mike (Taj Vaughans), he takes Stu under his fiery wing! 

Plenty of other interesting characters round out our after-world sh*t-show – Watts (Jamie Neumann) and Granny Dread (Peg O’Keef) of the convoy, and Watts’ old herbal hippie lover but still good with poisons Amber (Diany Rodriguez); the trophy-hungry crew of the Orange County Astral Burger, who oh so deserved the comeuppance they finally got; the “everything goes” haunt of Preacher (Jason Mantzoukas) and his ridiculous Holy Men; even the enigmatic Calypso, who clearly has a strained secret relationship with Raven and her ultimate agenda. 

So, what now? It seems that Home, even with it’s toilet paper and meat and potential answers to John’s history to be found, is pretty boring if John is alone. That supposed practice run he did for Raven has soured him a bit on the whole Milkman life, and even if we’re all pretty sure he could absolutely kill the ultimate race Raven is demanding he run next, John has to be in charge of his own life now. Annnd of course that’s right about when family just has to show up, much to Quiet’s dismay! 

Full of cheerful violence, casual cruelty between humans, epic bangin’ 90’s tunes, enough gleeful swearing to make a sailor stammer and a well-understood desire not just to survive but thrive, Twisted Metal is lit on fire on the Peacock channel now! 

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Review: Pushpa: The Rise (2021)

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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.

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KGF: Chapter 2

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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.

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KGF chapter 1 – A Gritty Saga of Power, Poverty, and Redemption

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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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