Sunday, March 14, 2021

Decade (2010-2019) : Top 100 Hindi Songs

2000-2009 was a time that belonged majorly to Sonu Nigam and Kay Kay, or Sunidhi Chauhan and Shreya Ghoshal. My personal favs out of them were ofcourse Kay Kay and Sunidhi Chauhan. Towards the end of the decade, Mohit Chauhan and Shilpa Rao looked like they would be here for long and also may become my new favourites.

Moving to 2010-2019 decade, and Mohit Chauhan lived upto the expectations, with his mindblowing singing in 'Rockstar', following up with tracks like 'Bezubaan' (Anybody Can Dance), 'Matargashti' (Tamasha), 'Haafiz Haafiz' (Laila Majnu), 'Saans' (Jab Tak Hai Jaan), etc.  He may have actually given many more great songs if not for the name 'Arijit Singh' who initially had hit tracks like 'Dua' (Shanghai), 'Raabta' (Agent Vinod) but shot to fame in 2013 with the unforgettable track 'Tum hi ho' (Aashiqui2) and never looked backed since. One may argue (like was in the case of Amit Trivedi) that we got overdose and repeititveness galore after few years, but I will slightly disagree because to every 5-6 such tracks he ends up with 1-2 songs that really makes you hit the Repeat button. 'Judaai' (Badlapur), 'Samjhawan' (Humpty Sharma ki Dulhania), 'Ae dil hai mushkil' (Ae Dil Hai Mushkil), 'Phir bhi tumko chahunga' (Half Girlfriend), 'Khairiyat' (Chicchhore), 'Kabhi jo baadal barse' (Jackpot), 'Khamoshiyaan' (Khamoshiyaan),  etc were some of my fav picks, many of whom made my top100 list. Clearly, the decade belonged to Arijit Singh.

Special Mention to Jubin Nautiyal, another singer that caught my attention with a song that probably very few would had heard or dismissed off at first go, the song is 'Tere liye' (Fitoor). There been numerous other songs of Jubin that I have fell in love with like 'Tujhe kitna aur chaahein' (Kabir Singh), 'Tum hi aana' (Marjaavan), 'Shayad' (Love Aaj Kal) etc. 

Among female singers, it was a variety of them that had great songs, Rekha Bharadwaj with 'Judaai' (Badlapur), 'Kabira' (Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani), 'So jaa' (Pari) etc. Sunidhi Chauhan with 'Just go to hell dil' (Dear Zindagi)',  'Tere Liye' (Fitoor), 'Yaaram' (Ek Thi Daayan), 'Kamli' (Dhoom3), etc. The decade however belonged to Nooran Sisters. They announced their arrival with the highly energetic superhit 'Patakha Guddi' (Highway), my personal favs though were 'Jee ve sohneya' (Jab Harry Met Sejal), 'Hota Hai '(Mirzya - Dare to Love), 'Tera noor' (Tiger Zinda Hai), 'Dum laga ke haisha title' and 'Tuk tuk' (Sultan), 

Special Mention to Palak Muchhal, who I always feel is a better version of Shreya Ghoshal. 'Kaun tujhe' (MS Dhoni - The Untold Story) and  'Meri aashiqui' (Aashiqui 2), were the standout tracks from her. Also, Jonita Gandhi with her songs 'Break up song' (Ae Dil Hai Mushkil), 'Gilehriyaan' (Dangal), 'Aahista' (Laila Majnu) was another of great new find of the decade. 


The list is entirely based on one factor - how many times could I listen the track on repeat. The order definately will vary person to person but if most of these songs feature in your top100 then I guess we are on the same wavelength. Also, do check out my Top Background themes right at the end.

Here's my Top 100 Hindi Songs (Decade - 2010 to 2019)


1. Saadda haq, Rockstar (2011) - listen at youtube
Singer : Mohit Chauhan
Composer : AR Rahman
Lyricist : Irshad Kamil 


You don't have any right to tell me how I must live! - an angst feeling against the world and society brilliantly portrayed in what has become a song to listen to whenever you feel been wronged. Love the way song starts that gradually builds towards the outburst in the 'O Ecofriendly' portion. Lovely use of guitar by Orianthi and the drums, and ofcourse the magical trio of Mohit-Irshad-Rahman who may never be able to outdo this track.
Fav line : 
O Ecofriendly nature ke rakshak, main bhi hoon nature. 


2. Aur ho, Rockstar (2011) - listen at youtube
Singers : Mohit Chauhan, Alma Ferovic
Composer : AR Rahman
Lyricist : Irshad Kamil


Oddly, this was a song that I didn't fell in love initially. And now its right up at no.2! Begins with Alma's vocals in Bosnian language setting the mood of desire and desperation/longing for love as Mohit takes over in another fantastic composition by Rahman. Its a song I can relate a lot to mainly for the part where the helplessness comes in because you just don't know how to get the peace with your feelings, the emptyness when nothing makes the mood get better. That complete vulnerable feels this song gives, just like the visuals with Imtiaz in top form.
Fav line : 
Main hasrat mein ek uljhi dor hua, suljhaa de.


3. Judaai, Badlapur (2015) - listen at youtube
Singers : Arijit Singh, Rekha Bhardwaj
Composers : Sachin-Jigar
Lyricists : Priya Saraiya, Dinesh Vijan


Rekha Bhardwaj and Arijit Singh's unusual pairing hits off completely here. Easily the best sad song that I heard in this last decade that tells about a guy who is struggling to cope with life after having lost the person he loved so much (in the film, wife and son both). What made this song really edge out many others of this genre is the fact that the lyrics don't try to overpower the composition which is usually the case, a song balanced in each and every department.
Fav line : 
Gair sa hua khud se bhi, na koi mera.. dard se karle chal yaari, dil yeh keh raha. 


4. Aitbaar, No One Killed Jessica (2010) - listen at youtube
Singers : Vishal Dadlani, Mame Khan, Robert Bob Omulo
Composer : Amit Trivedi
Lyricist : Amitabh Bhattacharya


Another angst track that talks about trust and how it feels when its broken down again and again by different people (specially from people who meant something to you). Vishal Dadlani is splendid throughout the track, specially the high pitched portions where the emphasis is on the state of mind with all the emotional turmoil. Love the english bit used in places with vocals by Mame Khan and Robert Omulo. Amit Trivedi and Amitabh Bhattacharya duo in top form as expected.
Fav line :
Jal bhun ke raakh hua aitbaar, ganda majaak hua aitbaar.. chidta hai, kudhta hai,sadhta hai raaton mein.


5. Tere liye, Fitoor (2016) - listen at youtube
Singers : Jubin Nautiyal, Sunidhi Chauhan 
Composer : Amit Trivedi
Lyricist : Swanand Kirkire


Jubin Nautiyal and Sunidhi Chauhan are terrific in this dreamy romantic melody. Its easily the most under-rated song of the album and my personal favourite. Love the lyrics and that moment of silence in final portion of the track, and also the slighest bit of variation in Jubin's voice when he sings the 'jo main kehta hoon' part right after it. Had a tough time to pick fav line, good work by Swanand Kirkire.
Fav line : 
Yaadon ka chehra, koi khawaab sunehra, main kya hoon bata de, tere liye.


6. Jo bhi main, Rockstar (2011) - listen at youtube
Singer : Mohit Chauhan
Composer : AR Rahman
Lyricist : Irshad Kamil


Lovely composition about discovering yourself in this world and feeling the words often end up miscommunicating about the thoughts you actually wanted to convey. Great use of crowd chorus at the end, and also love the 'oh yea yea' throughout the track. 
Fav line : 
Kabhi mujhe lage ke jaise saara hi yeh jahan hai jaadu, jo hai bhi aur nahi bhi hai yeh fiza ghata hawa bahaarein. 


7. Paani da rang, Vicky Donor (2012) - listen at youtube
Singer : Ayushmann Khurrana
Composers : Ayushmann Khurrana, Rochak Kohli
Lyricist : Ayushmann Khurrana


A punjabi romantic track that is very pleasant to the ears and the simplicity of the composition makes it stand out. Nice use of guitar and its the song that lead me to many more enjoyable tracks by Ayushmann Khurrana. Not a hardcore punjabi songs lover, but this song just kept growing on with time.
Fav line : 
Tere utte marda, pyaar tenu karda, milega tujhe na koi aur, tu bhi aa sabko chorhke.


8. Tum hi ho, Aashiqui (2013) - listen at youtube
Singer : Arijit Singh 
Composer : Mithoon 
Lyricist : Mithoon 


Sitting on bed casually flipping music channels on T.V when the teaser of this song came for 1st time, the melodius opening tune and then the vocals of Arijit Singh announcing himself with an immediate impact of 'oh this singer will become very famous' and the fact that I had heard him before in the 'Fame Gurukul' music show competition which he didn't win but was in top5 if I remember correctly. I know he has sung some better songs than this, but for some reason this one still remains my personal favourite, beautifully composed by Mithoon. 
Fav line :
Tera mera rishta hai kaisa, ek pal dur gawara nahi.. tere liye har roz hai jeete, tujhko diya mera waqt sabhi.


9. Humnava, Hamari Adhuri Kahaani (2015) - listen at youtube
Singer : Papon
Composer : Mithoon
Lyricist : Sayeed Quadri 


The song expresses how a guy feels his dull life became colourful after arrival of the girl he fell for. Sayeed Quadri's beautiful lyrics, Papon's brilliant vocals and Mithoon's sweet composition creates a very haunting kind effect. Can classify it as a sad track with minimal use of instruments, the light treatment enhances the song lot more. 
Fav line : 
Murjhaayi si shaakh pe dil ki, phool khilte hai kyun.. baat gulon ki zikr mehak ka achcha lagta hai kyun.


10. Ae dil hai mushkil, Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016) - listen at youtube
Singer : Arijit Singh 
Composer : Pritam 
Lyricist : Amitabh Bhattacharya


Super duper composition by Pritam, a song that will be in playlist of all those who have gone through one-sided love. Amitabh Bhattacharya's lyrics beautifully puts focus on the guy who is stubborn in his feelings knowing he won't get loved back. Arijit Singh in top form again in his rendition, and I feel Ranbir Kapoor for the way he enacts the track with his expressions brings a lot more out of an already awesome song. 
Fav line : 
Tujhko main kitni shiddat se chaahun, chaahe toh rehna tu bekhabar, mohtaaz manzil ka toh nahi hai, yeh ek tarfa mera safar.


11. Yaaram, Ek Thi Daayan (2013) - listen at youtube
Singer : Sunidhi Chauhan, Clinton Cerejo
Composer : Vishal Bhardwaj
Lyricist : Gulzar


Sunidhi and Clinton rendition in this Vishal Bharadwaj composition is highly lovable, but what makes it special is Gulzar's lyrics that throughout the track gets the most attention where love is viewed through daily routine things like sunrise, morning tea, reading newspaper, files, diary, car keys etc so effectively. Also, love the change in tempo that happens with the 'Aur apna dil' phrase. 
Fav line : 
Sooraj se pehle jagayenge, aur akhbaar ki sab surkhiyaan hum gunganaayenge.. pesh karenge garam chai phir, koi khabar aayi na pasand toh end badal denge.


12. Ghum huye, David (2013) - listen at youtube
Singer : Siddharth Basrur
Music Director : Bramfatura
Lyricist : Ankur Tewari


May not have made on most of the lists, but I personally love this track that gives a feeling of lost when thinking of past fun good days and what changed it all around. Siddharth Basrur vocals compliments Bramfatura's brilliant composition, totally love the starting arrangement of the song. One of those tracks that I love, and is not easy to listen too often because it often leads to bad memories.
Fav line : 
Dhoondhein unhi raahon ko, raaste jahaan khoye the hum, ghum huye


13. Aao naa, Haider (2014) - listen at youtube
Singer : Vishal Dadlani
Music Director : Vishal Bhardwaj
Lyricist : Gulzar


An addictive track with great guitar hooks used by Vishal Bharadwaj in the composition and well Vishal Dadlani rarely fails in rendition of tracks that have a very rock-ish feel. Gulzar lyrics here wonderfully talks of eternal sleep, tired of coping up and living this life. Felt sad that this version wasn't used in the film, as it would had easily explored the more insane side of Haider (Shahid Kapur) and what fun it would had been.
Fav line :
Na shaam na savera, andhera hi andhera.. hai roohon ka basera, so jao


14. Dua, Shanghai (2012) - listen at youtube
Singer : Nandini Srikar, Arijit Singh, Shekhar Ravjiani
Music Director : Vishal-Shekhar
Lyricist : Kumaar


Nandini Srikar nails this song with lyrics from Kumaar in a very sad zone that talks about how the 'wish' often isn't fulfilled, another track about the harsh realities and difficulties that comes with this life. I certainly love Shekhar's part in the antara, only complaint is that the song would had been better with one more stanza.
Fav line : 
Yehi baar baar sochta hoon tanha main yahan, mere saath saath chal raha hai yaadon ka dhuan


15. Haafiz haafiz, Laila Majnu (2018) - listen at youtube
Singer : Mohit Chauhan
Music Director : Niladri Kumar
Lyricist : Irshad Kamil


Beautifully starts with the chorus of children singing the kashmiri traditional lines 'huku bukus' and then Mohit Chauhan takes over in what is another of his trademark song that gives a damn to the world. Little extra love for the 'jag mein jag sa hokar reh tu' portion that feels so heavenly to listen to. It would be a sin not to mention about the terrific Avinash Tiwary act in the visuals where he nails the literal 'mad' love angle. Would be among my top5 visually great tracks of last decade. In a way, Niladri Kumar pulls off almost a romantic version of 'Saadda Haq' in here. 
Fav line : 
Jag mein jag sa hokar reh tu, sunta reh bas kuch na keh tu... baatein, patthar, taane, tohmat, ho humsa hokar hass ke seh tu.


16. Jeena jeena, Badlapur (2015) - - listen at youtube
Singer : Atif Aslam
Music Director : Sachin-Jigar
Lyricist : Dinesh Vijan, Priya Saraiya


A sweet melody with Atif Aslam vocals in low pitch, the kind of tracks I have always wanted him to sing a lot more. Another relatable track that talks about someone who doesn't know how to live without the person he loves. Always end up thinking about Varun Dhawan's solo imaginary dance thinking about Yami, one of my very favourite scene. 
Fav line : 
Na seekha kabhi jeena jeena kaise jeena, na seekha jeena tere bina humdum 


17. Kaala rey, Gangs of Wasseypur II (2012) - - listen at youtube
Singer : Sneha Khanwalkar
Music Director : Sneha Khanwalkar
Lyricist : Varun Grover


Hauntingly beautiful composition from Sneha Khanwalkar with her own vocals and Varun Grover's lyrics that compares everything to black (dark/illegal/corrupt). Its picturisation in the movie was underwhelming, however I can't forget how well edited the trailer version of 'Kaala rey' was which unfortunately is nowhere available on youtube. Hope it gets uploaded someday, I love 'Chi cha ledar' version too but there's just something special about 'kaala rey' version. 
Fav line : 
Kaali agni, kaali garmi sooraj kaala, kaala beegha aur gaj kaala, kaala haathi haathi kaala kaala kaala kaala kaala.


18. Saajna, I, Me Aur Main (2013) - listen at youtube
Singer : Falak Shabir
Music Director : Falak Shabir
Lyricist : Kumaar


An emotional track that sounds routine sad but is lifted up through Falak Shabir's composition and rendition with nice lyrics from Kumaar making it quite a good touching song. I also enjoyed way its filmed on John, Prachi and Chitrangada.
Fav line : 
Tu haathon mein toh hai mere, hai kyun nahi lakeero mein.. Saajna, yeh kaisa tera ishq hai, Saajna.


19. Teri galliyan - female version, Ek Villain (2014) - listen at youtube
Singer : Ankit Tiwari, Shraddha Kapoor
Music Director : Ankit Tiwari
Lyricist : Manoj Muntashir


Shraddha Kapoor surprised me in this track as I didn't expect her to sound so good, and I will go on to add that I prefer her singing over Alia as long as she sings in selective songs only. The fact that this is an unplugged version with minimal music makes it even more praiseworthy. And I love how Ankit Tiwari's vocals are used in final part, somehow his solo version didn't work for me but in here it compliments the track completely. 
Fav line : 
Kaisa hai rishta tera mera, be-chehra phir bhi kitna gehra.


20. Tum ho, Rockstar (2011) - listen at youtube
Singer : Mohit Chauhan
Music Director : A R Rahman
Lyricist : Irshad Kamil


Mohit Chauhan goes in the 'Tumse hi' from Jab We Met zone here. I find this track little emotional though, either its because I know Jordan has lost Heer forever now, or maybe Irshad's lyrics just brings in that effect. Its a song that basically talks about love not giving a damn about the societies interferences.
Fav line : 
Tum yun jitna mehsoos karu tumko, utna hi paa bhi lun.


21. Qatl-e-aam, Raman Raghav2.0 (2016) - listen at youtube
Singer : Sona Mohapatra
Music Director : Ram Sampath
Lyricist : Varun Grover


A very different kind of ghazal with a hook phrase 'qatl-e, qatl-e' used to up the tempo throughout. Ram Sampath's composition that experiments delivers wonderfully and the choice of Sona Mahapatra as female singer makes the song a complete winner. Some brilliant lyrics by Varun Grover in there. If I had the personality of someone who likes to party or dance, then this track would always be there in my playlist.
Fav line : 
Sab sunaate hai ki humne, haq hi kyun tumko diya.. jaanejaan khud hi bataayein, yeh koi iljhaam hai


22. Tanha hua, Zero (2018) - listen at youtube
Singer : Jyoti Nooran, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan
Music Director : recreated by Tanishk Bagchi (Original by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan)
Lyricist : Khwaja Parvaiz, Irshad Kamil


Its a surprise that Tanishk Bagchi actually got a remake better than the original. Yes, I prefer this version over the Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan one. Always been an ardent admirer of Nooran Sisters, here its only Jyoti Nooran behind the vocals and how mesmerizing she is yet again. I like how Rahat is mostly used as a guest singer in here. The opening and final lines are too beautiful, surprisingly they are missing in the album version. The idea of track picturisation is pretty cool too, though not well executed because of a certain involved actor. 
Fav line : 
Zindagi rooth ke dur jaa baithi jo, rukh badalti hai kya.. paas aati hai kya.


23. Pashmina, Fitoor (2016) - listen at youtube
Singer : Amit Trivedi
Music Director : Amit Trivedi
Lyricist : Swanand Kirkire


Often I think how do Music Directors control themselves as to which songs they would sing and which they will let other singers do, there are few who are greedy and then likes of Amit Trivedi play more often right and Pashmina is one of those instances where he was right choice for the song. The song is about first love and all the various feelings you go through whether its dreamy or excitement, beautifully captured in the melodious composition and lyrics. There's that innocence vibe that this song has, about something you are experiencing for the very first time and how happy you are about it.
Fav line : 
Kacchi hawa, kaccha dhuaan ghul raha... kaccha sa dil lamhe naye chun raha.


24. Kun faaya kun, Rockstar (2011) - listen at youtube
Singer : A R Rahman, Javed Ali, Mohit Chauhan
Music Director : A R Rahman
Lyricist : Irshad Kamil


For a non-religious person, its a big achievement for this song making the top25. There's a lot going on in this composition and I still feel goosebumps the moment Mohit Chauhan vocals begins with 'sajra savera mere tann barse, kajra andhera teri jalti lau'. Also, Javed Ali gets to shine in many parts of the song specially the lines where Jordan feels the world didn't like him but God embraced him.
Fav line : 
Tune mujhko banaya, main toh jag ko naa bhaya, tune gale se lagaya.. haq tu hi hai khudaya, sach tu hi hai khudaya. 


25. Dangal, Dangal (2016) - listen at youtube
Singer : Daler Mehndi
Music Director : Pritam
Lyricist : Amitabh Bhattacharya


If the lyrics of Amitabh Bhattacharya aren't enough to motivate you, then Daler Mehndi's powerful vocals just ups the level of this song even more. I certainly prefer Chak De India despite all my love for Dangal movie, but when it comes to title track, I will choose Dangal over Chak De India everytime. Though one may argue that while the former lays emphasis on individual, the latter is totally about the country, both induce goosebumps in their own ways. Enough said, terrific track that completes Top25. 
Fav line :
Arre bhed ki hahakaar ke badle sher ki ek dahaad hai pyare... 


26. Kaun tujhe, MS Dhoni The Untold Story (2016)
27. Ek manzil, Soundtrack (2011)
28. Jee ve sohneya, Jab Harry Met Sejal (2017)
29. Apna time aayega, Gully Boy (2019)
30. Lost without you, Half Girlfriend (2017)
31. Beh chala, URI The Surgical Strike (2019)
32. Banjaara, Ek Villain (2014)
33. Bekhayali, Kabir Singh (2019)
34. Ka kha gha, Bombay Velvet (2015)
35. Badtameez dil, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013)
36. O mama, 7 Khoon Maaf (2011)
37. Ranjha ranjha, Raavan (2010)
38. Khairiyat, Chhichhore (2019)
39. Awari, Ek Villain (2014)
40. Barbaadi, Aurangzeb (2013)
41. Sun saathiya, AnyBodyCanDance2 (2015)
42. Bulleya (amit version), Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016)
43. Bezubaan, AnyBodyCanDance (2013)
44. Ji Huzoori, Ki&Ka (2016)
45. Kamli, Dhoom3 (2013)
46. Haminastu, Fitoor (2016)
47. Second hand jawaani, Cocktail (2012)
48. Hungama, Queen (2014)
49. Ranga re (english version), Fitoor (2016)
50. Main Sharabi, Cocktail (2012)


51. Kar har maidaan fateh, Sanju (2018)
52. Jiya re, Jab Tak Hai Jaan (2012)
53. Daryaa, Manmarziyaan (2018)
54. Aahista, Laila Majnu (2018)
55. Naadaan parindey, Rockstar (2011)
56. Patakha guddi (male version), Highway (2014)
57. Ae khuda, Murder 2 (2011)
58. Da da dasse, Udta Punjab (2016)
59. Hasi (male version), Hamari Adhuri Kahani (2015)
60. Just go to hell dil, Dear Zindagi (2016)
61. Muskaane jhooti hai, Talaash (2012)
62. Mann marziyaan, Lootera (2013)
63. Haareya, Meri Pyaari Bindu (2017)
64. Azadi, Gully Boy (2019)
65. Phir bhi tumko chaahunga, Half Girlfriend (2017)
66. Samjhawan, Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania (2014)
67. Paintra (extended version), Mukkabaaz (2017)
68. Ghungroo, War (2019)
69. Raazi, Raazi (2018)
70. Salamat, Sarbjit (2016)
71. Bol do na zara, Azhar (2016)
72. Bhaag dk bose, Delhi Belly (2011)
73. Zinda, Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013)
74. Darling, 7 Khoon Maaf (2011)
75. Three kills, David (2013)


76. Main kaun hoon, Secret Superstar (2017)
77. Jee karda, Badlapur (2015)
78. Le chal mujhe (reprise version), NH10 (2015)
79. Sau baras, Haunted (2011)
80. Mere naam tu, Zero (2018)
81. Chhil gaye naina, NH10 (2015)
82. Kheech meri photo, Sanam Teri Kasam (2016)
83. Afghan jalebi (film version), Phantom (2015)
84. Chi cha ledar, Gangs of Wasseypur II (2012)
85. Phurr (film version), Jab Harry Met Sejal (2017)
86. Tum hi aana, Marjaavaan (2019)
87. Laila, Notebook (2019)
88. Galti se mistake, Jagga Jasoos (2017)
89. Awaara, 7 Khoon Maaf (2011)
90. Kaise hua, Kabir Singh (2019)
91. Maahi ve, Highway (2014)
92. Duniyaa, Luka Chuppi (2019)
93. Phir mohabbat, Murder2 (2011)
94. Chandralekha, A Gentleman (2017)
95. Woh ladki, Andhadhun (2018)
96. Dua, No One Killed Jessica (2010)
97. Mallo malli, Mausam (2011)
98. Alvida, D-Day (2013)
99. Kyun re, Te3n (2016)
100. Dil ki toh lag gayi, Nautanki Saala (2013)


BACKGROUND THEMES : 

Since you may always have noticed how I always make it a habit of mentioning my fav themes or pieces used in a particular film. So, it would had been a sin if I didn't do a list on it... 

Here's my fav background themes of the decade -

Note - I am not 100%  sure at some of the names mentioned in the 'composed' and 'performed', let me know if you feel any corrections needed.


1. The dichotomy of fame, Rockstar (2011) - listen at youtube
Composed by : A R Rahman 
Performed by : Balesh (shehnai) and Kabuli (guitar)


Mix of shehnai and guitar that just creates a haunting feels music like someone is going through a bad phase or irritated with everything thats happening. I wonder what cue Rahman was given by Imtiaz, the visuals showed Jordan lost in his work but inside bursting with anger almost like a robot going through things, maybe a sense of lost interest in others because people just disappoint big time.


2. Udaan theme (2010) - listen at youtube
Composed by : Amit Trivedi
Performed by : Felix Hug (piano)
Additional vocals : Joi Barua, Neuman Pinto


Excellent use of piano and violin together in a theme thats soulful and deeply touching. I find the theme working two ways, sometimes it brings back some happy memories but then there are times it also reminds of people who are no longer around. Great work by Amit Trivedi, and was so close to being no.1.


3. Agent Vinod theme (2012) - listen at youtube
Composed by : Pritam Chakraborty


I have hit the repeat button a lot on this one. Very catchy 'James Bond' kind feels with a more massy touch. Even the track 'Govind bolo' using this theme was lovely to watch. Reminds of 'Tashan', which also had a very unforgettable theme but that film was tough to sit through too. 

 
4. My Name Is Khan theme (2010) - listen at youtube
Composed by : Shankar Ehsan Loy


A very emotional theme that many times brings a lump in my throat while listening to it even though I do not remember anymore how the theme was used in the movie (sorry srkians). It just touches you deeply somehow and has that 'innocent' feel in a not so kind world. 


5. Bombay Velvet theme (2015) - listen at youtube
Composed by : Amit Trivedi


Amit Trivedi with another excellent hard to forget theme, can't say the same for the movie though. What's enjoyable here is the slow teasing buildup towards that amazing guitar piece that is so exciting to listen that you just don't want it to end. To add to it, the finish is very grandish. Nothing to complain, and I think I will judge you if you don't like this theme!


6. Barfi theme (2012) - listen at youtube
Composed by : Pritam


Oh Pritam, the idea of releasing the trailer on this theme with no dialogues had me immediately hooked for the film and how much sweet this theme is (even if its not original, as often the case with Pritam), literally going by the title (Barfi is a mithai). Playful and very romantic, the theme specially captures Ranbir-Ileana initial meetings, the post 0:29 piece specially is my favourite. 


7. Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai theme (2010) - listen at youtube
Composed by : Sandeep Shirodkar


Was instantly addicted when heard this theme in the trailer, fitted both the characters of Emraan Hashmi and Ajay Devgan, as it has shades of power, lust, greed and retro. Only complaint is that its too short, I would had preferred another minute of it. 


8. Tiger's theme, Ek Tha Tiger (2012) - listen at youtube
Composed by : Julius Packiam


Julius Packiam has been one of the names that has registered a lot in this last decade when it comes to background music. I have seen some people call 'Tigers Theme' very routine-ish but I personally find enough moments where it shines specially everytime the signature tune/beats that represents Salman's character is played, great use of guitar and mandolin (the post 1:07 part) . Its particularly good spy based theme, not perfect but good enough for me to listen on repeat mode. 


9. Woh ladki theme, Andhadhun (2018) - listen at youtube
Composed by : Amit Trivedi
Performed by : Jarvis Menezes


More of a 'Woh Ladki' instrumental version where Jarvis as the pianist delivers a lovely theme that is so pleasant to the ears. I do prefer lyrics with it but its still fun to hear the theme standalone specially the mid portion that is really good and pacy. 


10. Overture theme, Dhoom3 (2013) - listen at youtube
Composed by : Julius Packiam


Starts with the slow emotional 'Bande hai hum uske' tune leading up to the very pacy trademark 'Dhoom Machale' theme, though little let down with the un-necessary 'Dhoom machale' chorus in the end but the beats throughout the theme makes up for those tiny problems. I do however still prefer the theme of 1st Dhoom movie, that one is just unbeatable. 


11. Kai Po Che theme (2013) - listen at youtube
Composed by : Amit Trivedi
Performed by : Hitesh Sonik


This theme very much gives out the feel of guilt and trying to get over it, which is the case in movie too. I don't remember if it was used anywhere else, did gave deep haunting feeling at the final scene when Omi gets out of jail and is all the time feeling sorry for what he had done like knowing he can never undo it. One of those themes that works lot better with the film than just plain audio.


12. Roohdar theme, Haider (2014) - listen at youtube
Composed by : Vishal Bhardwaj


This was used as the entry scene of Roohdar (Irrfan Khan), love the slow buildup that leads to the rock-ish 'Aao Na' tunes as Roohdar enters the frame. If I am right, the scene where Haider kills the Salman fanatics the very same theme is re-used. Another theme thats more delight to listen with the visuals.


13. Parade de la bastille, Tamasha (2015) - listen at youtube
Composed by : AR Rahman
Performed by : Tapas Roy (mandolin), Ishaan Chhabra (accordion), Kamalakar (flute), Naveen Kumar (uilleann pipe)


Almost get a spiritual feel with the start of this theme before it goes into fun european mode and then becomes more of a prelude to 'Matargashti'. This theme was the reason I started enjoying the track which oddly didn't work for me initially. 


14. I am trapped, Trapped (2017) - listen at youtube
Composed by : Alokananda Dasgupta


The expected kind of theme with use of water drops, pans hit against wall/door as it leads to the desperation of the character who is trying to find a way out been trapped in a house. The Netflix movie 'Platform' theme which is also based on survival reminded me of 'Trapped', there's a similarity in tune at places too, I however do prefer Platform version. 


15. Jire jire ji ji baji ji, Bajirao Mastani (2015) - listen at youtube
Composed by : Sanjay Leela Bhansali
Performed by : Sanchit Balhara


Totally enjoyed this part in the trailer and glad they had a short theme out of it. I love the 'jire jire' part (starts at 1:50) the most that is so full of energy with an attitude to achieve the impossible. And I totally enjoyed the very filmy way theme is used in the movie. 


Also, DO CHECK OUT - 

Saturday, March 13, 2021

Decade (2010-2019) : Best Hindi Albums

Unlike the movies which found a good variety and going in right direction.. Music I felt went down the hill year after year, mainly because there was overdose of unwanted remixes of classic songs, almost 90% of them were trash and the trend of Rap in every song was another headache to deal with. Tanishk Bagchi is the main culprit and I won't be surprised if he ends up spoiling atleast 50 more songs in next decade. Remixes that did work for me were 'Khoya Khoya Chand' bartender version by Mikey McCleary and 'Hawa Hawai' by Prashant Pillai both wonderfully re-created, sung by talented Suman Sridhar.

The multi-composer strategy also became a norm and it produced varied results, albums like 'GullyBoy, Ek Villain, Kabir Singh, David, Detective Byomkesh Bakshy and Delhi Belly' to name some of the best ones. 

Coming to the top composers whose albums atleast during start of decade would be highly anticipated, how did they fare! Was sort of a mix year for AR Rahman, there were some disappointing albums which you don't usually associate with him, but then he made up for it with some amazing compositions. It was Imtiaz ali with whom he paired to give firstly the terrific, 'Rockstar' which ofcourse was the album of the decade, following up with 'Highway' and 'Tamasha' which had some lovely tracks to listen to. Other notable albums were 'Raavan', 'Jhootha Hi Sahi', 'Jab Tak Hai Jaan' and 'Mom'

The decade however belonged to Pritam Chakraborty and Amit Trivedi, both having their hands full of numerous good albums. Pritam gave 'Cocktail', 'Barfi', 'Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani', 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil', 'Jagga Jasoos', 'Jab Harry Met Sejal' and 'Dangal' while Amit Trivedi had gems like 'No One Killed Jessica', 'Lootera', 'Queen', 'Bombay Velvet', 'Fitoor', and 'Manmarziyaan'. I would just slightly call it Pritam's decade because some of Amit's albums work better with film than as a complete audio.

Totally loved Vishal Bharadwaj's tracks in 'Haider' and '7 Khoon Maaf', but apart from them there wasn't much to enjoy as per my taste. Sanjay Leela Bhansali also failed to deliver single great album, he composed for 'Guzaarish' and 'Ram Leela' entirely, while co-composed for 'Bajirao Mastani' and 'Padmaavat', each album had 1-2 good songs at best. Shankar-Ehsan-Loy were a disappointment too, 'Raazi', 'D-Day' and 'Mirzya' were the only standout albums that I loved.

Vishal Shekhar gave excellent 'Anjaana Anjaani' in 2010, but it was 'Shanghai' in 2012 that was their best of the decade (one of very under-rated albums), rest of their albums were pretty average with exception of 'Hasee Toh Phasee' and 'War'. Salim-Suleiman started with a bang giving 'Band Baaja Baraat' in 2010, unfortunately thats their only highlight of the decade.

Sachin-Jigar duo were easily the new composers that made a mark in 2010 with 'Saibo' and 'Karma is a bitch' tracks in 'Shor in the City', then the fun 'Khoon Choos Le' of 'Go Goa Gone' or angst 'Bezubaan' from 'Anybody Can Dance'. 'Badlapur' however was their complete album of the decade, each song turning out to be too good. Other notable albums were 'Meri Pyaari Bindu', 'A Gentleman' and 'Hindi Medium'. Ajay-Atul also had a good time with 'Singham' and 'Agneepath', but my favourite was 'Zero' and to some extent 'Dhadak' too. 

Other highlights of the decade was Sneha Khanwalkar with some super creative tracks in 'Gangs of Wasseypur' (almost made my top10). Ram Sampath was very much on same line when it comes to innovative tracks in 'Delhi Belly', also some enjoyable tracks in 'Talaash' and 'Fukrey'. However, the less said about 'Raees' the better it would be. And Clinton Cerejo compositions in 'Te3n were really good, another of under-rated album of the decade.

It's a straightforward call for the no.1 spot, but took a lot of time to decide the next 9 albums. Despite been a low last few years in terms of great music, there's been enough unforgettable music albums that have come in this last decade. Surely, would have loved more competition, hopefully the next decade list is lot more tougher to make.

Here's my favourite 10 albums with their Music Directors and Lyricists :


1. Rockstar (2011)
Music Director : AR Rahman 
Lyricist : Irshad Kamil 


The magic of Rahman-Irshad in these 11 songs (additional bonus of 3 background themes) is still alive well and truely, even after having drained off listening to them non-stop in last 9 years. Mohit Chauhan the perfect choice for being voice of Jordan (Ranbir Kapoor) sang different genre songs from romantic 'Tum ho', to folk 'Haawa Haawa', angst 'Saadda Haq/Naadaan Parindey', religious 'Kun Faaya Kun', to songs where Jordan is on self-search 'Jo Bhi Main/Phir Se Udh Chala' and the fun track 'Sheher Mein'. There's lovely Kavita Krishnamurthy rendition of 'Tum Ko' and Harshdeep Kaur's 'Katiya Karun' which is the only track that I liked less from others. Rahman hasn't given another gem of album since Rockstar, maybe it would never come. Special mention to how hauntingly beautiful 'The Dichotomy of Fame' instrumental is. 
My Favs : Saadda Haq, Aur Ho and Jo Bhi Main


2. Badlapur (2015)
Music Director : Sachin-Jigar 
Lyricist : Dinesh Vijan and Priya Saraiya


Sachin-Jigar had been giving some gem songs in past, but Badlapur was first time when the album clicked fully for me. From the excellent 'Judaai' track, an unusual pairing of Rekha Bharadwaj and Arijit Singh nailing one of very well composed emotional track, to the angst 'Jee Karda' with Divya Kumar's vocals, the very romantic with a sadness feel all over in 'Jeena Jeena' beautifully sung by Atif Aslam in low pitch (why doesn't he sing such songs more). Also, liked the seductive tone in  'Sone ka paani' and the beats of 'Badla badla'.
My Favs : Judaai and Jeena Jeena


3. No One Killed Jessica (2010)
Music Director : Amit Trivedi 
Lyricist : Amitabh Bhattacharya


Amit Trivedi blew me away in Dev.D, and No One Killed Jessica was his next great work. A slightly under-rated album I feel, with only the catchy track 'Dilli' sung by Aditi Singh Sharma getting its due. Vishal Dadlani vocals in another great angst track 'Aitbaar' and my personal favourite, Shilpa Rao in 'Yeh Pal' a song about feeling frustrated about life, Meenal Jain and co in a beautiful track 'Dua' and then a vast variety of singers from Anushka Manchanda, Neha Kakkar, Aditi Singh Sharma, Tochi Raina etc in a fun party song 'Aali Re'. 
My Favs : Aitbaar and Dua


4.  Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016)
Music Director : Pritam Chakraborty 
Lyricist : Amitabh Bhattacharya


And enters Pritam Chakraborty with one of best romantic album of the decade. From Arijit Singh's title track on the pain of one-sided love, to the fun dance track on 'BreakUp', and 'Cutiepie' another enjoyable dance track. Shilpa Rao's seductive rendition of classic track 'Aaj jaane ki zidd na karo' for a change redone well unlike the poor remixes we usually get. Yet another album with a angst song that works, 'Bulleya' though I prefer Amit Mishra version. Only 'Alizeh' and 'Channa Mereya' (favourite of majority I believe), didn't click for me. 
My Favs : Ae Dil Hai Mushkil title and Bulleya


5. Fitoor (2016)
Music Director : Amit Trivedi
Lyricist : Swanand Kirkire


Another Amit Trivedi album, and another pure romantic album that I loved, its a pity the film was bad and also its another album that didn't get that much love as it should had. 'Pashmina' beautifully sung by Amit Trivedi promoted more as seductive track but is actually about falling in love for first time, 'Haminastu' by Zeb Bangash is a haunting take on Kashmir with some great lyrics by Swanand Kirkire, 'Tere Liye' by Jubin Nautiyal and Sunidhi Chauhan with a romantic duet that I madly love. English version of 'Ranga Re' by Caralisa Monteiro is another great track, very romantic with a seductive touch. 'Hone do Batiyan' doesn't work for me, and also the title track by Arijit despite been good was slightly underwhelming for not having more antara lines in there. 
My Favs : Tere Liye, Pashmina and Ranga Re (English)


6. Gullyboy (2019)
Music Director : Dub Sharma, Divine, Naezy, Spitfire, Sex On The Beat, Rishi Rich, Major C, Ankur Tewari, Karsh Kale, Ace, Ishq Bector 
Lyricist : Javed Akhtar, Noxious D, Maharya, MC Tod Fod, MC Altaf, 100 RBH, Ankur Tewari, Gaurav Raina, Karsh Kale, Tapan Raj, Dub Sharma, Spitfire, Divine, Naezy, Kaam Bhari, Ace


If you were tired of un-necessary raps by likes of Honey Singh, Badshah etc in almost every song, then this album came as a respite with 18 original tracks. A film about Mumbai's street rap style and every composer comes up with a song to impress. There's the socio-political talk going through Dub Sharma's songs like 'Azadi' which uses the famous JNU protest lines 'hum leke rahenge azadi' and 'Jingostan' that says '2018 hai, desh ko khatra hai'.  'Asli hip hop' track almost feels like a dig at how poor the raps have been in this decade. 'Doori' talks about the upper-lower class living society, well sung by Ranveer and composed by Rishi Rich, the poem version is pretty good too.  'Ek Hee Raasta' tells about the dreams of people which they compromised for a different life. The best rap tracks are easily 'Sher Aaya Sher' filmed on MC Sher, full of swag and composed/sung by Divine, and the very famous catchy 'Apna Time Aayega' composed by Dub Sharma and Divine, Ranveer letting it all out in this highly motivational track. Ranveer is also super in 'Kab se kab tak'. Also, Kaam Bhaari's 'Kaam Bhaari' and Ace's 'Har Gham Mein Khushi Hai' are enjoyable rap songs. 'India 91' rap song is given a classical touch. There's few non-rap songs that work too, like 'Goriye' which is restyled, 'Train song' which is about triumph, 'Jahaan tu chala' with Jasleen Royals typical style vocals and Ankur Tewari's 'Jeene mein aaye mazza'. Meri Gully Mein is only track where I felt Ranveer voice didn't do the song justice. Special mention to the 'Rap competition' in the movie where they go one on one ripping each other's personal life apart through rap songs, never knew a such thing existed.
My Favs : Apna Time Aayega, Azadi and Sher Aaya Sher


7. Ek Villain (2014)
Music Director : Mithoon, Ankit Tiwari, DJ Shadow, Rabbi Ahmed, Adnan Dhool 
Lyricist : Manoj Muntashir, Mithoon, Rabbi Ahmed, Adnan Dhool 


Some may find songs of this album cliched/routine, I have no problems in admitting that the melodies and sad tracks wooed me over very easily. Over the years, Shraddha's version of 'Teri Galliyan' has grown on me a lot with Ankit Tiwari's final stanza working much better in here than his solo version, Mohammad Irfan's 'Banjaara' is a lovely melody track and there's the Soch Band (Rabbi and Adnan) with 'Awari' track that talks about loss and interpretation of how world looks at call-girl. Mustafa Zahid's 'Zaroorat' is good but lacks that wow feeling like his songs in 'Awarapan' movie. 'Hamdard' was the only track that I didn't enjoy.
My Favs : Teri Galliyan (Shraddha version), Banjaara, Awari


8. Jab Harry Met Sejal (2017)
Music Director : Pritam Chakraborty
Lyricists : Irshad Kamil 


Pritam Chakraborty and Imtiaz Ali combo gave another album to remember, not an instant love though as many songs took time to grow. 'Jee Ve Sohneya' was however a track that I fell in love with first instance, Nooran Sisters are simply fantastic in this soulful track that kinda of reminds of the famous 'Chitthi Aayi Hai' track from 'Naam' movie. Love the lines 'jabse gaanv se main shehar hua, itna kadva ho gaya ki zeher hua' in 'Safar' which has the usual Imtiaz template, very well sung by Arijit Singh. 'Ghar' and 'Parinda' (tochi version) are the hidden gems of the album. 'Phurr' (film version) is the guilty pleasure song, with vocals of Mohit Chauhan, I like the romantic tone played out in this fun dance track EDM style. Then there's Diljit's sweet punjabi track 'Raula' thats more fun with the visuals. 'Hawayein' for some unknown reasons never clicked for me despite sounding as a good romantic track. Both 'Radha' and 'Beech Beech Mein' got great ideas but fail for me in execution, the latter track has grown up in last few years though. 'Yaadon Mein' and 'Butterfly' works only in some parts.
My Favs : Jee Ve Sohneya, Phurr and Parinda
 

9. Kabir Singh (2019)
Music Director : Mithoon, Amaal Malik, Vishal Mishra, Sachet-Parampara, Akhil Sachdeva
Lyricist : Mithoon, Irshad Kamil, Manoj Muntashir, Kumaar


Another romantic album makes my list, the film may had been under controversy and I too didn't like the film (not for same reasons) but the album is full of great tracks. 'Bekhayali' (Sachet Tandon version) is ofcourse the anthem track now, full of angst against the society with more focus on the undying love despite breakup. Jubin Nautiyal's version of 'Tujhe Kitna Chahein Aur' is another track that gets me emotional everytime I hear. Vishal Mishra's 'Kaise Hua' a song about how a person became so important, and Akhil Sachdeva-Tulsi Kumar's 'Tera ban jayunga' that is about a guy going to any extent for love, both songs work really well. 'Yeh Aaina' song got beautiful lyrics, if only singer wasn't Shreya Ghoshal. Armaan Malik makes 'Pehla Pyar' likeable. 'Mere Sohneya' was the weakest track of album.  
My Favs : Bekhayali (Sachet version), Tujhe Kitna Chahein Aur (Jubin version)


10. Bombay Velvet (2015)
Music Director : Amit Trivedi
Lyricist : Amitabh Bhattacharya


Very much like Rockstar, here its Neeti Mohan with 6 tracks as voice of Rosie (Anushka Sharma). She combines with Mohit Chauhan in a very lovable romantic duet 'Behroopia'. While 'Naak Pe Gussa' and 'Sylvia' are fun tracks, she gives all the feels in 'Dhadaam Dhadaam' a heartbreaking track. But its 'Ka Kha Gha' where Neeti totally excels, love the last stanza way she sings 'KA KHA GHA' in high pitch. Shefali Alvares also gets 3 tracks, and I enjoyed her in two of them, 'Shutup' that has jazz background or 'Mohabbat Buri Bimari' where her vocals makes the song standout in comparison to other two versions of Neeti and Shalmali. There's remix of 'Jaata kahan hai' with ever reliable vocals of Suman Sridhar giving it her own fresh touch. 'Aam Hindustani' and 'Darbaan' didn't work for me. Special Bonus in 3 background themes, 'Tommy Gun' is likeable, but the main title theme is spectacular and been in my playlist ever since. 
My Favs : Ka Kha Gha, Behroopia and Jaata kahaan hai


Also, CHECK OUT -

Thursday, March 11, 2021

Mini Review : The Trial of the Chicago 7 (Netflix)

Directed by : Aaron Sorkin

This is the Academy Awards of protests and as far as I am concerned it's an honor to be just nominated.


Spoilers ahead.. 

Based on the Democratic Party Convention in Chicago, 1968 that was met with protests resulting in riots from three groups, 1st was the leaders of the Students for a Democratic Society - Rennie Davis (Alex Sharp) and Tom Hayden (Eddie Redmayne), 2nd was leaders of the Youth International Party aka Yippies - Jerry Rubin (Jeremy Strong) and Abbie Hoffman (Sacha Baron Cohen) and 3rd was the leader of the Mobilization to end the war in Vietnam - David Dellinger (John Carroll Lynch). Then, there were Lee Weiner (Noah Robbins) and John Froines (Danny Flaherty) who had nothing to do with protests yet they were named in the trial. And there was 8th guy, Bobby Seale (Yahya Abdul-Mateen II), National Chairman of the Black Panther Party who also wasn't part of protest but got named for the obvious racist reasons. Defense Counsel was lead by William Kuntsler (Mark Rylance) along with Leonard Weinglass (Ben Shenkman).while the Federal Prosecution was lead by Richard Schultz (Joseph Gordon Levitt) along with Thomas Foran (J.C MacKenzie). The story shows what happened, how the trial proceeds as you very much know with the tone of the judge Julius Hoffman (Frank Langella) that its more a political trial (as Abbie believes) and the result is well known in advance. 

A very quick montage kind opening sequence with brilliantly inter-cut shots on dialogues and a lovely fast background music gives us a brief idea of the 8 guys we will be watching for the entire plot. The setting then immediately moves to the courtroom drama which is very riveting. Even if you are not into politics, it will be hard for you not to enjoy every minor thing and also feel anguish at how the proceedings seem to be in favour of Federal team (represnting the U.S Govt) all the time. Infact the entire court-room tussle could easily be compared to any past event anywhere in the world where justice isn't served and manipulation of laws done by the government, or you could look no where else but India itself how various riots end up with accused getting anti-national labels while the real culprits roam free, but depends entirely what side of story you believe is true.

There's judge Hoffman right away trying to clear out he is in no way related to defendant Abbie Hoffman to which Abbie sarcastically calls him father, both Abbie and Jerry often saying 'over-ruled' to irritate Judge, many times Judge would take wrong names of defendant or a defense lawyer (says a lot about either his efficiency or his behavior), Bobby managing without a lawyer in a trial he shouldn't be part of as day by day he is ridiculed by the judge on clear racist discrimination. Eddie Redmayne is wonderful as Tom and it took me a while to even recognise him, that final scene of his you would want to just standup and applaud (wonder if it was fiction or real). Also, it was interesting to see Tom and Addie's different ideologies while been on the same side.

Mark Rylance is brilliant, be it his take on been told 'he ain't serious about the case', or his anger (which almost everyone from Defense side and us audience felt) at the Judge taking wrong calls all the time handing everyone contempt of court for disagreeing with him. Frank Langella plays his part very well even if he's not a likeable character.  Also, its been a long time since I saw Joseph Gordon Levitt in a interesting role, maybe 'The Walk' was the last.


Totally feel for what Bobby goes through entire trial and then that hardhitting scene where he gets beaten and gagged, love how Schultz reacts to it who despite been from Federal side, often shows the signs of humanity prevailing in someone in the courtroom that doesn't belong to the Defense side. Lee and John's reference to Academy awards of protests is simply hilarious and so is the lady picking calls with 'Hello Conspiracy Office'. Also, we get a nice small cameo of Michael Keaton. 

Despite my hatred against Politics, I found The Trial of the Chicago 7 as filmmaking at its best, its engaging, entertaining, politically baised, questions the morals of everyone involved, manipulation of the government going to any extent and one of best court-room dramas I have seen even with a result that's not satisfying but thats the harsh reality. Reading some reviews it suggested that movie is not entirely accurate depiction of the real incidents, even in that case the fiction elements added doesn't affect the story much to me. Do a favour and give it a watch, but be attentive, as the dialogues are never ending (not complaining) and there's a lot to process in right at start of the film! 

My Rating : 8/10 

Wednesday, March 10, 2021

Mini Review : Chhalaang (Amazon Prime)

Directed by : Hansal Mehta

Yeh jo tera fluctuation hai na, hero aur chu**** ke beech ka, kamaal ka hai bhaisaab.


Spoilers ahead..


Mahinder Hooda/Montu (Rajkumar Rao) is a PTI at the same government school he got passed from and got the job through his father (Satish Kaushik). He has no interest in teaching but all that changes when a new Computers teacher, Neelima (Nushrat Bharucha) joins the school and he falls for her instantly. When everything is going fine, the school principal Usha Gehlot (Ila Arun) suddenly hires a new much better qualified PTI, Singh (Mohd Zeeshan Ayyub) that doesn't go well with Montu resulting in a competition between both involving 3 sports taking school students, the one who wins keeps the job. 

First half mostly focusses on Montu's laidback daily life with a surprise scene involving exposing couples that hangout on Valentine's day with the reason of 'western influence' should be stopped. That is where the story changes because one of the couple Monty harasses turns out to be Neelima's parents. But that's the only violent/grey side of Montu we get to see as the film rather wants to focus on what importance Sports education plays in students life, or atleast thats what it was intending to do going by that 20 plus sports personalities names Montu takes in his final speech. 

There are many entertaining moments, most of them coming in the 1st half, whether its the take of Montu why he prefers half pants, taking Neelima to a ring shop, Montu's mother getting angry at been called aunty by Shukla, mention of games like Ludo, Pithu, Temple Run when Montu tries to understand how much his selected students are capable of, and the emotional scene where Montu tells his father how he has always left something in the middle in the past because he felt he couldn't do it. 

The moment narrative shifts to the competition between Montu and Singh, the film derails rapidly. Two bizarre sequences, one involving Montu using dogs to put students in danger just to find who is the fastest runner and to make it worse, its used later in relay competition through loudspeaker because our dear student will win when the dog's sound is put in his ears, whatever that was! And then there's Neelima and Montu's father going to students homes to blackmail their parents into sending students at the competition. 

The usual cliches are there with a training montage, a motivational song. But all that has worked still in past, specially if you look up in last few years with Nitish Tiwari's 'Dangal' and 'Chhicchore'. Maybe Hansal Mehta just failed at making the sports competition look interesting enough rather been boringly predictable. 

Funnily, I have to admit, I was expecting at the end Singh to turn out as brother of Neelima and it been a plan she formed to change Montu. Nushrat Bharucha in a way controls men again (Luv Ranjan being the writer you know) but not directly this time. Its a likeable character as she is bringing positive change in Montu but it was bit of hard to understand why she would be close to Montu, then be with Singh and then again change sides. 

The transformation of Montu happens bit too rapidly too, and so does the way his team of nerds that end up winning against a much better team. It is like you are told that a team like UAE is given one month training and suddenly they will beat Australia/India at a World Cup tournament. But this is something that has been done a lot in past sports films too, maybe the fantasy side of it makes the writers go mad because the reality is always different. 

Rajkumar Rao and Saurabh Shukla are in great form, their scenes together are really fun to watch. Ila Arun is lovely in her supporting act, while Satish Kaushik despite been a little preachy at times is enjoyable specially his over-excitedness at ground while watching matches. Jatin Sarna gets wasted in halwai role. Mohd Zeeshan Ayyub is effective but if only those sports sequences were engaging enough. 

Chhalaang works more as an entertainer in parts but it could had been lot more fun.


My Rating : 5.5/10

Tuesday, March 9, 2021

Mini Review : Enola Holmes (Netflix)

Directed by : Harry Bradbeer

The choice is always yours. Whatever society may claim, it can't control you.



On the morning of her 16th birthday, Enola Holmes (Millie Bobby Brown) wakes up to a surprise that her mother Eudoria Holmes (Helena Bonham Carter) has gone missing leaving behind few clues, maybe she wants to be found out. Enola who has been brought up in very different manner by her mother, now has to face her brothers Sherlock Holmes (Henry Cavill) and Mycroft Holmes (Sam Claflin) who are eager to send Enola to a finishing school for proper young ladies, more of a institution that converts young ladies into robots for men. But Enola runs away to London trying to find her missing mother and solve the mystery behind her disappearance, and on the way she falls into another mystery surrounding a young runaway Lord Tewkesbury (Louis Partridge) she meets on the train who is unaware of a dangerous conspiracy he's involved in. 

Starts off like you expect a Holmes based detective case solving story, but soon it becomes something different entirely. We here are shown how Enola tries to suddenly enter the real world, and not only search for her mother, but also find herself growing in the new dangerous and tough situations she faces on her own and then there's a little romantic angle with mysterious Tewkesbury. This storyline maybe would work for teenage audience, but for others like me it was a disappointment and not really much to enjoy. 

It also didn't help that Henry Cavill felt awfully miscasted as Sherlock almost like he had no personality, that witty one liners or the 'sociopath' attitude (was there very slightly), all of which previously we had enjoyed in Benedict Cumberbatch and Robert Downey Jr's versions. Then we get a  fictionalised different version of Mycroft which was a headache to watch for the kind of anti-feminist he is. It was a major disappointment as I was looking forward to Sam Claflin's act. When he was trying to control Enola and she runs off, I felt thank god they didn't go that route, only to return to same narrative much later on, grr! 


Even if I ignore these problems as in anycase its Enola and Twekesbury who get more screentime, issue is both sub-plots of mother disappearance and why people want Tewkesbury dead, leads to not so interesting adventures which is what Holmes world should consist of. The movie may have worked better if they didn't try to do too much, and stuck with just mother's motives, explore more of her feminism angle and Enola's attempts to find her mother, while outdoing Sherlock. The whole Tewkesbury plot just spoils the narrative and it just becomes more of neither here and nor there. 

I have not seen Millie Bobby Brown in anything else than 'Stranger Things' and she was fun to watch, liked those 4th wall dialogues she would often do (not overdone thankfully), and she had a nice cute chemistry going with Louis Partridge.

Enola Holmes doesn't work for me mainly because it's more of a fictional different take of Sherlock's little sister, not the kind I was expecting from the trailer.  Just about watchable but have to manage some cringeworthy sequences on the way. 

My Rating : 5/10 

Monday, March 8, 2021

Mini Review : I Care a Lot (Netflix)

Directed by : J Blakeson

There are two types of people in this world. Those that take and those that get took. Lions and lambs. My name is Marla Grayson and I am no lamb. I am a fucking lioness. 



Marla Grayson (Rosamund Pike) is a professional court appointed guardian for many elderly wards in past but she with her partner/girlfriend Fran (Eiza Gonzalez) are in reality conning the judge by using false medical reports with help of Dr Amos (Alicia Witt) and Sam Rice (Damian Young) whose facility is used to put the new wards at. Having been right up her game, Marla next chooses Jennifer Peterson (Dianne Wiest) who appears to be very wealthy, has no heirs and offlate was in touch with Dr Amos. But things turn wild when its learned Jennifer isn't what she looked like, and has got connections with Russian Mafia as Marla tries to get out of this unwanted mess.

The way film starts, voiceover of Marla with her back of head shown, it always felt like we were re-watching 'Gone Girl' (trailer had the same vibe too) with similar tone and style minus the nervy background music. Its fun watching how Marla is easily getting her way, sending normal old people into care centers with proper legal methods. But if you think of same scenario happening in real, then its scary to think how easily someone in your family could end up for no fault of theirs at a place not meant for them.


Rosamund Pike seems to be enjoying the role, you can just feel that with the way she performs, smiles, stares or gives the look of 'you can't win against me' even at a stage in film where she is on verge of death. And Eiza Gonzalez is also a delight to watch as her partner and lover, last saw her in 'Baby Driver'. 

Its two places where the film falls apart, one being the reality check as it often goes in over the top fiction, whether its how easily Marla tricks all old people never getting caught, with the judge or police never getting any hint of the fraud. Also, how the hell did Marla escape when been heavily drugged and alcohol inserted, still not drown, unless you wanna tell me those Russian thugs used poor quality of drugs and alcohol.. Even getting the security guards down felt unreal. But I am willing to totally ignore these basic flaws, its the whole Roman Lunyov (Peter Dinklage) vs Marla Grayson angle that didn't felt engaging enough. I would had liked more of Jenniffer, her attempts to escape or Roman trying some other methods to get her out. There was a scope of lot more of dark comedy that way.

A clear classic case of a movie where you wanna root for the bad person, and it helps when she is paired against another bad person. The ending was little cliched, but then thats the only justice you could had given to all the people that suffered due to her which we don't see much in movie because we wanna be kept in awe of Marla's character. 

I Care a Lot is a decent watch, specially first 30 mins.. Rosamund Pike keeps you interested till the end even when the screenplay begins to drop down into the territory you wish it didn't go. 

My Rating : 5.5/10 

Sunday, March 7, 2021

Mini Review : Ma Rainey's Black Bottom (Netflix)

Directed by : George C. Wolfe

You don't sing to feel better. You sing because that's a way of understanding life. 



Adaptation of an August Wilson play, with the story revolving around the legendary singer Ma Rainey (Viola Davis) known as 'Mother of the Blues' and her band of musicians including a very ambitious horn player, Levee (Chadwick Boseman)  as they assemble for a recording session one afternoon, set in 1920's Chicago. 

Very much get the feel of watching a play, with most of the settings limited to a room and many monologues. The constant banter among the musicians in the band, each telling a dark tale they were part of or knew about. Levee's childhood story version monologue specially makes you feel sorry for him and just maybe side with him after feeling he is on a very tightrope way he would be behaving like he would be a big thing one day and not respecting others. 

Ma Rainey is another complex character, at first you feel she is showing the shades of a famous singer, until you learn the reason behind it, with her wanting to make sure the whites never end up ruling how she can behave. That makes for some interesting scenes involving Ma and the white management that wants the recording done badly. 

A very dialogue heavy movie that does lot of character study on almost all the musicians in the band, and then how it leads to a very dark hard-hitting ending which you can see coming amidst the rising tension during all the never ending banter. It does felt little monotonous at times and lengthy despite been just 1h30mins in duration. Though, at same time I won't deny I was very much engaged in most of the banter that was going on, or the moments when Ma would dominate over the white management. Also, there's the racism and prejudices that comes with it since its set in an very old era. 

Maybe little more story about Ma before they shifted to this recording session could had added that something extra that I felt was missing in the movie. 


Viola Davis as expected shines, despite her not having that much dialogues to begin with, her conversation about what music is to her and the coca-cola scene were my favs. Sadly, its the last movie of Chadwick Boseman, and how good he is in this, specially the scene where he narrates what happened when he was 8 yr old, or his enthusiasm after having bought new shoes. 

Among the rest band, Cutler (Colman Domingo), Toledo (Glynn Turman) and Slow Drag (Michael Potts), each were fun to watch, whether its their reactions to how foolish Levee would often sound or their own dark secrets they share with time.

'Ma Rainey's Black Bottom' is a good watch for all the performances, bit restrictive on the plot nevertheless I still felt fully invested barring some places. And always good to know about some history I ain't aware of, though many may remember this movie for Chadwick Boseman, being his last one and he does deliver too. 

My Rating : 6.5/10 

Saturday, March 6, 2021

Mini Review : Coolie No.1 (Amazon Prime)

Directed by : David Dhawan

Inka pyaar download ho raha hai Sir, inke pyar ki file ko delete karke time khoti mat karo please



Pandit Jai Kishen (Javed Jaffrey) wants to teach lesson to a very arrogant businessman from Goa, Jeffrey Rozario (Paresh Rawal) who wants a rich son-in-law for his daughter Sarah Rozario (Sara Ali Khan), someone who would use a chopper/plane to go buying groceries (yea just one eg of the never ending exaggeration). Pandit accidentally meets Raju Coolie (Varun Dhawan) who co-incidentally falls in love with Sarah just after getting a look of her photo, and rest story is predictable. 

I have seen Govinda version in bits and pieces only, it was a guilty pleasure despite having same story that is very odd but it was Govinda-Karishma pairing and Kader Khan with their comic timings and lets say not cringeworthy dialogues that made it a good timepass watch. 

Coming to this new version, where do I start.. the opening credits of animation where Amitabh Bachchan asks 'tumhare paas kya hai, and little Raju replies 'mere paas maa nahi hai' as the train left with his mom on it. The annoyance at usage of film references started here. I personally enjoy how Sridhar Raghavan uses them so wonderfully in his films, but in this case David Dhawan is literally forcing them at our face with instances of Raju Coolie doing mimicry of many celebs time and again, to an extent that the fake twin character (oh that was so well done by Govinda), here uses Mithun voice to make him differ from the other brother. 

The sillyness doesn't end there, Sarah is shown dumb to fall in love with what looks like a very wierd rich guy, Jeffrey only talks in 'heaven on the docks man etc', Varun Dhawan's overacting to sell his over the top character, Sara Ali Khan struggling in her acting once again specially when she cries, out of no where there's a scene involving deaf kid on railway track with everyone shouting and not willing to help because script says Raju Coolie will do a heroic stunt to save, and the usual stammering/overweight guys made fun of to get laughs.  

I can recall only one time I got laugh when Jeffrey says he ain't pizza delivery guy to Sarah. I am not sure why David Dhawan doesn't understand that it was Govinda that made his films work, and not the script.. he just gonna keep ruining films with his son like this.

Leaving asides the 'husn hai suhana' track, that too for the song and not the poor choreography or vulgar dance steps, and 2-3 possible decent moments, there was nothing I enjoyed in this movie. 

My Rating : 2/10 

Mini Review : The Girl On The Train (Netflix)

Directed by : Ribhu Dasgupta 

Lekin best time ka ek problem hai, woh jaldi gujar jaata hai..


Spoilers ahead..


Mira Kapoor (Parineeti Chopra), a recent divorcee on her daily commute watches a girl from train, Nusrat John (Aditi Rao Hydari) and gets obsessed with a little bit of jealousy wondering how can someone appear so happy with a loving partner/husband. Nusrat happens to live some kms away only from Shekhar Kapoor (Avinash Tiwary) ex-husband of Mira, who now lives with Anjali (Natasha Benton). Mira, an alcoholic and suffering from short term amnesia since suffering from a car accident gets very angry when one day she sees something unusual from train about Nusrat. The next day Nusrat is found missing, and question is whether Mira is related to it in anyway or there's more to the story then we know. 

I have not read the novel, but did see English version which had Emily Blunt in lead and I had totally enjoyed her act even though the movie was just decent. The Hindi version has been changed around quite a lot with a totally new climax, and to be honest all the changes felt silly and downgrades the movie lot more. 

For instance, the focus here goes totally on whodunit and it does succeed in that as its not always clear who would had killed Nusrat. But the screenplay is too loose to keep you engaged, which is why I felt it was a wrong choice, and should had stuck to character study of all 3 ladies, Mira, Nusrat and Anjali, how they are inter-connected and their relations with psychiatrist making you feel sorry for all 3 of them. I so much missed that awkward and chilling sequence at the end where Mira and Anjali would had felt trapped inside house after learning reality of Shekhar, rather we get a one on one scene of Mira and Shekhar with a flasbhack which was meh. 

If there was something to change then it should had been more screen-time for Shekhar's character but unfortunately that doesn't happen, infact it was easy to read Shekhar wasn't what he pretends to be but that could be because I already knew the story. 

What seriously irritated me most was the Bagga family angle involving the cop Dalbir Kaur Bagga (Kirti Kulhari), this addition to the story felt so bollywoodlike and hilarious to watch in ofcourse unintentional way. 

For me to enjoy this film from the point of view of director, it needed tight editing with no requirement of those final two forced songs into narrative and also I wasn't particularly satisfied with Parineeti's act specially in the drunk scenes. Aditi is very much wasted like Avinash, and Natasha Benton role is reduced entirely to ofcourse give more weightage to Kirti Kulhari's unwanted revenge angle. 

Its not a torture as many people have labelled it, a watchable movie for most parts, but if I have to prefer a version, I would pick English one, though most likely novel should be the best pick to go with looking at how flawed both film versions are. 

My Rating : 4.5/10 

Sunday, June 28, 2020

Mini Review : Gulabo Sitabo (AmazonPrime) and Bulbbul (Netflix)

Gulabo Sitabo
Directed by : Shoojit Sircar

Aapka hamara nikaah hua tha, ki hum bhaage the aapke saath? 


Set in Lucknow, Mirza (Amitabh Bachchan), a 78 years old landlord is very obsessive about his old crumbling mansion known as 'Fatima Mahal' waiting to get the total ownership when his wife, Begum (Farrukh Jaffar) dies. Many tenants live there on rent that includes Baankey (Ayushmann Khurrana) along with his mother and three sisters. There's a constant banter going between Mirza and Baankey, which increases when Baankey accidentally breaks one of the washroom. A lawyer and archaeology gets involved very soon citing it to be a heritage property but having their own personal interests. 

The pace reminded of October, very slow but unlike that movie, I struggled to find a character to love. We see a guy on street doing puppet show based on 'Gulabo and Sitabo', they always fight and argue with each other and that's how the main characters Mirza and Baankey are. Even a reference scene is shown at one moment where Baankey's sister is watching 'Tom and Jerry' cartoon on TV. Mirza wants rent on time and planning to increase the rent, which is only 30rs per month right now (I am not sure what year Shoojit kept this film on) while Baankey is good at making excuses or lieing everytime he has to pay the rent The light-hearted moments between them keep coming, both been selfish in their own ways. It gets bit repetitive at times, that gold digging scene was un-necessary. When Brijendra Kala (lawyer) and Vijay Raaz (Archaeology) characters enter the narrative, it did give me feeling of maybe they are working together but the twist we get at the end was very unexpected. To be honest even though I liked the twist, it still feels not completely real. 

What I did enjoy was the dialogues, a thing about Shoojit films that was again so good due to Juhi Chaturvedi. Amitabh Bachchan is lovable, totally into his character, the way he walks bending over and those attacks he gets whenever someone would tell a big amount of money he may get either through rent or selling mansion was very funny. Srishti Shrivastava was very good as one of sister of Baankey. Ayushmann Khurrana was okay, again didn't appeal fully to me but atleast I didn't feel irritated by his character in here, and he gets some nice moments like the one where his girlfriend comes to buy 'Organic atta' right at end or when he asks Mirza to adopt him. The show stealer however was Farrukh Jaffar, that scene where she asks Mirza whether they got married or ran away and then asking who did she run away with then was hilarious. Its a pity she gets very less screen-time for the obvious reason you find out in the end. Liked that chair sequence in the end, how from 250rs it goes to a very high price.

An interesting take on the humans and their greed and desires whether they are young or old, a tighter screenplay would had helped though and also I ended up feeling for Mirza despite his greedy nature which I think makers weren't wanting so somewhere they failed in putting his character not look miserable. Still a likeable movie that has some fun moments, if you enjoy the slow pace and don't mind the twist then you would end up loving it, I didn't. Definately among my least enjoyed Shoojit movie.

My Rating : 5.5/10



Bulbbul
Directed by : Anvita Dutt

Thoda pagal hai.. par chup rehna. 


Spoilers ahead .. 


Its been 5 years as Satya (Avinash Tiwary) returns back to his village where only his elder sister-in-law, Bulbbul (Tripti Dimri) lives now. His brother Indranil (Rahul Bose) has abandoned her, and Indranil's twin brother, Mahendra died few years back with his wife Binodini (Paoli Dam) not living at the haveli either. There is a strong belief among the people living there that the deaths taking place in the village has something to do with chudail. Also, there's a doctor Sudip (Parambrata Chattopadhyay) who visits the haveli often to check up on Bulbbul.

The moment you see Bulbbul's grown up sequence where she is herself controlling the haveli, her conversation style is enough to reveal she is hiding some trauma. She is just going through the senses mostly with her own life but always eager to help others which is a key point for the plot. In one of the early scenes she clearly warns one of the guy to never hurt his 1st wife who just recently married another lady, and in the finale we do see the chudail kill him when he does hurt the 1st wife. We know for certain from start Bulbbul is the chudail, what we don't know if its literal or there's more to it which is told to us in phases through flashbacks.

The film never works on basis of thriller, and its not a horror either if you are looking for chudail scenes throughout, rather its how bad a horror life women goes through whether its the child marriage, patriarchy or domestic assault/violence/rape, with no freedom at all. Set in 1880's, pre independance era in the Bengal Presidency, a time when such things were a norm, even though some of it still prevails in our societies today.

There's one superb scene (some would had found it funny if the film released in theatre), where Binodini keeps telling Bulbbul 'chup rehna', her way of elaborating how women must always bow down to the men and its not bad as that way they get 'ijjat', and 'gehne'. Binodini and Bulbbul share many good scenes together, where both are in their own ways putting forward their opinions against each other. Its interesting to see such a relation when both have been suffering, but it was hard to emphasize with Binodini having seen how she acted as a catalyst leading to what Mahendra does. The assault scene was hard-hitting, and so was the act Mahendra does later.

I like how they use the horror freak mind of Bulbbul to advantage in taking the narrative towards feminist revenge. Oddly, at first watch I almost bought it that she was indeed chudail and its silly to show her get shot at end. But clearly, she was human always, with only thing to decipher, if she had got some powers that made her a Devi or it was a complete case of using fantasy to give justice to others. Love how they shot the night sequences involving the bullock-cart giving it a eerie feel. However the red color over-use got to me after a while!

Totally enjoyed Tripti Dimri performance, she played different aspects of the character so perfectly, be it the sarcastic or laughing tone she has on most of the time, the conversations with Badi bahu (or choti bahu as shown) Binodini,  the lovable attraction towards Satya, the feeling of she will lose him forever or the drastic change when she is hunting people who hurt women including her own revenge on the brothers. I couldn't really find a flaw in her acting, which I felt wasn't totally upto the mark in Laila Majnu. Rather its Avinash Tiwary, who stole the show in that film, felt very less appealing here mainly because his character never gets the detailing or more extra that it should had. He does chip in with a good performance still, but how I wish they had kept Mahendra's role out which was very un-necessary to the plot and added more to Satya-Bulbbul story. Rahul Bose was efficient in his both acts.

Parambrata Chattopadhyay is lovable yet again playing the 'good guy' role, all his scenes with Bulbbul are sweet and he's the only guy that doesn't turn grey. Love the conversation he has with Bulbbul on the balcony telling he knows his limits.





Kudos to Anushka Sharma who keeps bringing creative ideas in every new project, even though only NH10 and PaatalLok have been the best of them all. Bulbbul is very much on par with how Pari was for me, many problems including a weak final act, yet I can't dimiss it because there's a lot to like too. And I would love to see Tripti get more movies.

My Rating : 6/10