Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is a film directed by David Yates. I was quite excited to watch this chapter of the film as it was the one that was closer to the final 2 chapters. And I can say it was an entertaining venture.

Plot: Harry Potter stumbles upon an old potions textbook belonging to the Half Blood Prince.

Story and direction: This film marked the return of Steve Kloves as screenwriter after Goblet of Fire. And he had again a daunting task of matching with David Yates’ vision. But I can say they really did it. The film on a story basis has nothing much to offer. But the character work is so awesome that you can even forget the story part for some time. The characters progress has been shown over the years and that is one aspect this film is to be noted for. We see the characters having realized what love is and also whether or not they are on the good side or bad side. The conflicts are very well written and portrayed by the actors. Also very much noticeable is the photography used. I was just instantly attracted to it. The dull kind of palette suited the environment in which the film is set in. No wonder it was nominated for an Academy Award. Also the VFX are commendable especially in the Quidditch Sequence. That was just wonderful. Even Nicholas Hooper’s score does wonders. My other problem with the film was the main title itself. The Half-Blood Prince as the title suggests has very little importance in the film. As the film progresses I did feel the makers just forgot the title they kept.

Performances: The cast of the film is just awesome and pin-pointing out their performance would be equal to a sin. I would although like to mention Tom Felton as Draco Malfoy. He was a character that was quite much different in tone to the other films. And I commend Tom for justifying Draco’s character beautifully. This film introduces Jim Broadbent as Horace Slughorn. His character was very nicely portrayed by Broadbent. Also introduced is Helen McCrory as Narcissa Malfoy. Although the role was small but it was emoted perfectly.

Favorite Scene: It would be the one where Ron is lying in the hospital and Lavender Brown comes to see him. Standing beside Ron is Hermione. And Ron utter Hermione’s name to Lavender’s disappointment. The smile on Hermione’s face was very evident and it showed the future that lies ahead of these two characters. In addition to that, I felt happy for these two characters.

Verdict: Although a bit weaker in terms of plot in comparison to the previous instalments, I cannot deny from the fact that I had a good time while watching the film. Never for a moment I felt I was watching a bad movie.

I am going with an 8.5/10.

Sanju is a film co-written and directed by Rajkumar Hirani. Having watched the trailers I knew I was in for a blast. And finally after a delay in watching thefilm, I came out of the hall happy as ever.

Plot: The film chronicles the life of Sanjay Dutt from 1980s till his release from jail in 2016.

Story and direction: With a film like Sanju, Rajkumar Hirani had a big responsibility in his hands. Firstly, to be able to present the story of Sanjay Dutt to the audience in a way that is not cringe-worthy and secondly, not to disappoint his audience with a different kind of film that he was making. But Raju Hirani just did it again and he yet again just proved why he is the most sought after director in recent times. Hirani and Abhijat Joshi (co-writer of the film) have crafted a wonderful story that encompasses the varied life of actor Sajnay Dutt. Nevre for a second does the film meander around. Hirani just knows what emotions of the audience to tap. From scene one, you feel invested in this story. Although this film is not as light-hearted as his previous ventures, but he insert some scenes that do generate some laughs and they don’t feel forced. Also the themes of friendship and parenthood are so correctly justified in this film that I just couldnn’t complain. Since Hirani does edit his films himself, so he just knows what is necessary in the film. I would like to commend on the make-up team who have just made the actors look so real. Also the VFX team does a great job at merging the Sanjay Dutt’s film scenes with this film. But I did have one small little problem with the film. But I would say this is me being nit-picky. There is a particular scene where the timelines don’t match and a small little conversation that made no sense.

Performances: Never in a film I have seen where everyone was either great or extraordinary. Ranbir Kapoor so beautifully embodied Sanjay Dutt that I felt I was watching Sanajy on the screen. Paresh Rawal was also good as Sunil Dutt. Manisha Koriala also gave life to Nargis beautifully. Vicky Kaushal mastered the Gujurati accent with ease in addition to giving a compelling performance. Anushka Sharma, Jim Sarbh, Diya Mirza and Sonam Kapoor did deliver some good performances.

Music; Raju Hirani just gives the perfect music to his films whci I do like. He relates his songs to the particular scene. My favorite song was ‘Kar Har Maidaan Fateh’.

Favoriet Scene: It would be the scene where Sanju gives a speech of thanking his father. That scene depicted how special is the father-son bond.

Verdict: With his fifth film, Raju Hirani just proved that he is a hit machine unlike any other.

I am going with a 9/10.

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix is a film directed by David Yates. I remember watching this film back in 2007 since my school took me and not understanding a single word of it. But finally after watching it so many years later, I enjoyed the film.

Plot: The Ministry of magic goes to every extent in order to hide Lord Voldemort’s return.

Story and direction: This is the first film directed by David Yates who went on to direct the rest of the parts and first not to be written by Steve Kloves but by Michael Goldenberg. I could understand the pressure on these two people but in spite of that they deliver. This instalment is the one that has the Ministry of Magic play out its politics. And that is something quite different the series has never tackled before. Also introduced in this film is Harry Potter forming the Dumbledore Army and the anti-Voldemort organisation the Order of the Phoenix. The film has progressed from Harry becoming just a little boy to one where he is fighting Death Eaters. Each character has an added layer of information to itself that made me care for them so much. And it was so beautifully handled. The makers know the importance of these characters and give them the respect and care that they deserve. Also featured inin this film is the biggest action scene ever where stakes are very high. I remember very well enjoying the scene at that time but now knowing all the characters and their motivations, I enjoyed the scene even more. The music in this film is awesome too. But I did have one little issue. And that is the VFX. After so good VFX in the previous parts, here in some scenes the VFX were cringe-worthy.

Performances: The regular cast does so well in their parts that it is very hard to fault them. Imelda Stauton does one hell of a job as Dolores Umbridge. If you thought that ypou have seen enough of evil characters in this series, you are wrong. She is definitely the worst. Helena Bonham Carter also nails it as Bellatrix Lestrange. Although her role is quite short, but it is very effective. And finally, Evanna Lynch is awesome as Luna Lovegood. The way she alliances herself with Harry and the gang is awesome.

Favorite Scene: It would be the one where Fred and George trouble Dolores Umbridge during the OWL exam. That scene was just awesome and I laughed so hard during this scene. It always feels good when an evil character faces such a situation.

Verdict: This franchise knows what it is doing and it is good at it. With every instalment, the anxiety increases as to what will happen next. I had a good time watching this film and can’t wait to see as to what is next. I applaud David Yates and team for bringing another part of so wonderful series.

I am going with a 9/10.

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire is a film directed by Mike Newell. With every instalment of the series, my anticipation for the film also increased. And I can say even with the fourth instalment, the excitement is never reduced.

Plot: Harry Potter is selected by the Goblet of fire to compete in the Triwizard Tournament making him the youngest ever to compete much to the chagrin of everyone.

Story and direction: This is the first film in the series not to have the first scene at Privett Drive. I thought it was the right move considering the film has many things going on. During the first fifteen minutes or so, the film feels quite fast paced. I didn’t get the understanding as to what his happening. If the makers would have given a little importance to the beginning, I guess the film would have worked wonders. But after those initial minutes, I was totally engrossed in the movie. There were some new characters to look out for and I can say all of them impressed. Also some of the VFX work in this film is incredible especially the broom scenes which have greatly improved. With that being said, I would add that the tournament scenes were well directed. There is always a sense of tension in the atmosphere during the scenes as you care for the safety of those characters. The film also brings another aspect of the trio’s friendship into light which was very nicely handled. This is the first film also not to feature John Williams as score composer. But I can very well say that Patrick Doyle did a spectacular job as composer. The film do marks the very first appearance of Voldemort and I can say that he is terrifying. With his appearance and the build-up that has beenmade, you can say that this man means business and also that he is ruthless and would harm just anyone who comes his way.

Performances: If I had to pin-point I had to say that this was by far Daniel Radcliffe’s best as Harry Potter. The emotional side had never been explored until this film as it was great. As for new characters, Ralph Fiennes just nailed it as Voldemort. He just looks as the villain you predicted. Brendan Gleeson brings his charm to the screen and that just lights up the scene itself. Robert Pattinson also justifies his performance. Timothy Spall and David Tenant gave good support. As for rest of the cast, always just do justice to their roles and never have they given me a single reason to complain.

Favorite Scene: It would be the Yule Ball scene where the boys after the initial dance just sit at one side and are jealous of Hermione seeing she is having a lot of fun unlike them. This very well depicts the teenagers who are at that age.

Verdict; Thanks to Mike Newell and Steve Kloves we have got another griping chapter to the series. Except for the first fifteen minutes, I enjoyed the entire film.

I am going with a 9/10.

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban is a film directed by Alfosno Cuaron. I was curious before watching this film as many critics have noted this film a turning point in the series. After watching the film, I can say that this is by far my most favorite film of this series.

Plot: Harry Potter is warned about Sirius Black, a prisoner who just escaped Azkaban prison in order to kill him.

Story and direction: Taking the reins from one director to another is a very risky thing sicne you have to match the expectations of the audience as well as find a way to say your voice in the film. But this film has excelled in that department. Alfonso Cuaron is successful in providing a change of tone in the film. From scene one, you know the film is going to be different from the previous two. This is very clearly known from the lighting and camera work which is just awesome. The images of certain things like the tree or the flowers depict the kind of silence this film wants to convey. But the film doesn’t seem boring for even a single moment. It is never dull because it has the series comedy that defines it. The comedy is very subtle and that says how good a director Alfonso is. Also we get to some new characters in this film, which are very interesting. I especially liked the bond formed between Lupin and Potter. He was just like a mentor to him helping him out in various odd situations. The music is also great and I can just go on about it. The VFX has improved from the previous two and even today it is very much relevant. The VFX feels real and just immerses you into the fictional world that is created. And for the first time, the Quiddicth scene was just to look out for. It was gorgeous. Also to be noted is some of the animal designs in the film. They are so life-like. You feel scared by some of them and also you feel that you want to own some of them. I liked the fact that the film is shorter than the previous two since it was a good move and a long film I guess wouldn’t have worked. Steve Kloves deserves a pat on the back for adapting another chapter of Harry Potter successfully.

Performances: The regular cast does their job just perfectly and also adapt to the new settings. Michael Gambon is great as the new Dumbledore. Never for a moment do you miss Richard Harris. This character also has a change of characterization from the previous two which I very much liked. David Thewlis is also great in donning the role of Remus Lupin. He is the new character that I liked the most. And finally, Gary Oldman: He is just awesome. Although his scenes are lesser than the rest, but he just leaves an impact on the mind.

Favorite Scene: It would be the one where the kids go to Hogsmeade and Hermione and Ron see some building. Then Malfoy and gang come and begin to tease them. After that, Harry with the help of his invisible cloak scares Malfoy and gang away. After all, who doesn’t want to see Malfoy beat up!!

Verdict: This film is by far the best of Harry Potter. The film did everything for me that I wanted to see in this series. And also, it makes me anxious as I can’t wait to see what else it has got to offer. This goes on to prove that when you tap on to the right content and know what your audience wants, I think you can make sequels even more successful than the originals (story wise). Sequels are never cursed. It is just that the makers should know how to handle the characters and give them the respect that they deserve.

I am going with a perfect 10/10.

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets is a film directed by Chris Columbus. After watching the first film which I liked a lot, I was pretty excited for the second part. After watching it I can say that I enjoyed this particular part too.

Plot: Harry Potter is warned by Dobby, a House elf not to attend Hogwarts School of Magic as danger awaits him.

Story and direction: This film is one of those rare sequels which improve upon the first. This film doesn't take time to set up things. But instead we are immediately thrown into action. Also introduced are some new characters which impressed me like Lucius Malfoy and Ginny Weasley and another one not being of much importance like Gilderoy Lockhart. If this character was removed it wouldn't be much of a loss to this film. The funny scenes also feel funny and not forced. John Williams' score is again awesome and I can just hear it again and again. The film deals with another theme which I liked a lot the way it was handled. As for the VFX, although it has improved much from the first part but still there are some imperfections. There is some animatronic work with creatures which were excellent. It felt like the creatures were real and would jump out of the screen. The sets are massive and adorable. The action scenes in this film were great.They were so believe-able that I had goosebumps. Even though the film is longer than the first part, I felt much more entertained by this film. Chris Columbus and Steve Kloves have again done a wonderful job in providing us another chapter in this universe that not only makes us happy but also makes you feel for the characters in those particular settings. This film does have a post credit scene but I didn't think that the film did need that.

Performances: All of the regular cast members did an outstanding job. Jason Isaacs was bad (in a good way) as Lucius Malfoy. Kenneth Branagh was also good in the material that was provided to him. Mark Williams as Arthur Weasley did a fine job. The voice of Dobby by Toby Jones was awesome. I didn't know that he voiced Dobby until I read it in the internet.

Favorite Scene: It would be one where Hagrid consoles Hermione about her parents being muggle and both Harry and Ron providing support to her. This scene showed not only showed the strong bond between the kids but also how much Hagrid cares for Harry's gang.

Verdict: For a sequel, this film just ticks all the boxes. I had a great time with this film. It improved upon the first and also opened many new doors for the future films. I just can't wait to see what this series has yet to offer me.

I am going with an 8.5/10.

Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone is a film directed by Chris Columbus. For many years, I hadn't given a damn about the Harry Potter series. But seeing the fanfare surrounded by the series, I decided to give it a try. After watching this one, I can definitely say that I am on the verge of being a fan.

Plot: Harry Potter, an orphan living with his uncle and his family is invited to Hogwarts School of Magic to become a wizard.

Story and direction: I had watched this part around the time it released but never just kept in touch since I didn't understand a word. Seeing it now as an adult and a movie lover, I just fell in love with this fictional world created. The characters, settings, story, etc.. all just feel seamless. Thanks to J K Rowling, Steve Kloves and Chris Columbus who have done justice to the source material provided to them. I feel the themes are so very relevant in this film. The intricacies of those themes are valid in the current world we do live in. This is what I just exactly want from any story presented to me. Although the film is very long, I never felt bored for a single moment. And to adapt quite a huge novel comes with responsibility and precaution, which the makers completely justified. The sets are huge and awesome. You just feel you are in Hogwarts actually. Also each characters costume is just to marvel at. John Williams once again just proves why he is the composer of the century. But I did feel some flaws to the film. Being a first film, the main plot of the film comes at around the 90th minute of the film. Also the VFX of the film felt very amateur considering some great VFX was done in the years preceding this film.

Performances: I would say that the casting of the film is just perfect. Applause for the casting team is deserved. Never do you feel that another actor should play the role. The kids, Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, Tom Felon just to name a few are fantastic. These 10-11 year old just steal your heart. Also the other cast like Richard Harris, Maggie Smith, Alan Rickman, Robbie Coltrane make themselves likable.

Favorite Scene: There were many favourite scenes in this film for me. But one scene in particular was the troll scene where Harry and Ron decide to save Hermione and after the saving Hermione vouches for the boys. This is the scene where you actually happen to see the bond solidified between the 3 as friends.

Verdict: For anyone who just loves fantasy film and worlds with great visuals, this film is just for you. I assure you won't be disappointed. I plan on seeing the entire series now because I am fascinated by this world and want to see what else has it got to offer.

I am going with an 8/10.

Antz is a film directed by Eric Darnell and Tim Johnson. I decided not to watch or read anything regarding this film before watching the film. After finally watching it, I can say that I enjoyed the whole 87 minutes of this film.

Plot: Z, a worker ant decides to impersonate as a soldier ant just to impress the Princess Bala.

Story and direction: The film released at a time when CGI animation was just starting. This film is also famous because of its similarities with A BUG’S LIFE. But let me tell you these two films are poles apart in terms of content. This film mainly focuses on the issue of making your own choices rather than just doing the things just because someone told you to. This theme is very relevant in modern times and it has been very clearly justified in the film. There are many adult references in the film which also made it very different considering at the time animated films were aimed for the children. Also, the designs for the characters are amazing. The voice work was aptly chosen. Finally, the music of the film was great and was like sugar to the ears. What I did have a problem with was the animation itself. Three years before this we had a film like Toy Story which is considered as a landmark in terms of animated CGI films. The animation was not impressive with this one, but I laud the effort that the makers went to in order to make this film.

Favorite Scene: It would be the first interaction between Bala and Z and then the dance in the scene thereafter. This scene caught on to my mind because this particular scene justifies the basic theme of the film of doing something different than others so that you can be unique.

Verdict: Although I won’t say that this is one of the best animated films of all time, but I do say that this film deserves a watch. With 87 minutes as the runtime, I did feel entertained for the whole time. I never felt for a moment that the film even diverted my attention, which is a huge credit for any film.

I am going with an 8/10.

Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety is a film co-written and directed by Luv Ranjan. The trailers looked fine and since I like the Pyaar Ka Punchnama series, I decided to give this a watch. I can definitely say that this was quite an entertaining film.

Plot: Sonu decides to save his friend, Titu, from his (Titu’s) girlfriend, Sweety, once he finds something fishy about her.

Story and direction: From scene one, the film sets its tone. The Delhi-ite attitude has been very correctly depicted by Luv Ranjan, which is why his film work. The character work in this film is impeccable. He just makes every character so likable and nuances of the character that he has assigned are so correct that you can’t ever fault the characters. Also, the dialogues are just spot on. Never the dialogue feels recycled or taken from some other film. Even the jokes are spot on. The way friendship is portrayed in this film, is also apt. But Luv Ranjan has one issue in all of his films: misogyny. I do feel that all of his films at the end just touch upon this topic. You do feel that is really every woman so wicked and cunning. But Luv just brings so much life in the story, that this so called controversial topic feels entertaining. Also, in the first half the film feels a bit rushed.

Songs: This film has 8 songs. Although some of them are party numbers and will make most people dance, I don’t see anything that make the songs interesting or even for that matter exciting. As with the trend now-a-days, we have some recycled Piunjabi songs, which I just absolutely hate. When you can’t just produce original music, why put songs unnecessarily?

Performances: Karthik Aaryan was obviously the star of the film. It feels that he doesn’t act; he is like that in real life. Nusrat Barucha also proved to be a powerhouse in the film. Sunny Singh gives an earnest performace as the innocent friend. A special mention goes to Alok Nath and Virendra Saxena. Their dynamic duo was to look out for. Every time they came to the screen. The scene just lighted up. The rest of the supporting cast was good too.

Favorite Scene: It would be the one where Sonu confides Titu after he gets emotional of disappointing his girlfriend, Pihu. That scene is very much correct in the recent times and Luv Ranjan’s way of showing the scene was so awesome, that this scene left an impression on my mind.

Verdict: Although the topic is very controversial, I cannot deny from the fact that this film was very entertaining. If the songs were a bit less, I would have enjoyed more.

I am going with a 7.5/10.

Incredibles 2 is a film written and directed by Brad Bird. After 14 long years of waiting, every ‘Incredibles’ fan was happy that this film came out and I can definitely say the same about me. The trailers just impressed me and after coming out of the hall I would like to say that this film was a blast.

Plot: After Elastigirl, is chosen to redeem the status of superheroes in the eyes of public, its upto Bob Parr to take care of the home and his children. Also there is a new villain in town by the name of Screenslaver.

Story and direction: Knowing that Brad Bird would be back with the sequel, I was more excited than ever. I do consider Bird as one of the top animation directors of our time. And with this film, he basically solidifies this fact. He decides to keep the timeline same as of the first part. This shows how well he understands his audience. The writing of this film is just superb. Yes, the jokes are spot on and just got me laughing, but the way he deals with real life issues are just perfect. I felt that certain decisions would be the same if taken by me. The characters, both old and new, are great and get equal screen space to shine. Bird doesn’t take the conventional route; he takes risks which is commendable. The animation is spot on. And that’s not just because it’s Pixar; it’s because the detailing is so perfect. The action scenes and VFX are just as excellent as with me seeing it in 3-D, it was an added advantage. The music is also ‘incredible’. Given the fact that the film is longer than any animated film (even longer than part one), I never felt bored or the film never felt stretched. But I do have one complain regarding the film. I would say that one aspect of the film felt very guessable, which was the only little glitch this almost-perfect film has.

Favorite Scene: It would be the scene of Jack-Jack displaying his different powers in fighting a small raccoon like animal. The scene was just awesome because of the cool VFX and the humour in that scene. This is the scene where I felt that Jack-Jack’s character shined the most.

Verdict: If I had to compare this film with the 2004 predecessor, I would choose the 2004 film without a doubt. But given the fact that we have had a lot of superhero films from that time to this, I would commend Brad Bird and team for presenting our favourite characters in a film and even making them more likable. The film doesn’t feel saturated; it feels fresh, which is rare. The 14 year wait finally paid off. If there will be a third part to this film, I would say I am already in for it. I sure would like this film seen to the nominated in various awards for ‘Best Animated Film’. If you loved part one, definitely watch the film as this film celebrates the characters in the best possible way, even after 14 years. If not watched the previous part, do watch that and then watch this film as it’s mostly related.

I am going with a 9/10.