Movies are my second education. This is where I share what to watch, what to skip โ and why cinema still matters more than ever.
Twenty years in advertising taught me storytelling. A lifetime of movie-watching taught me why stories work. A few rules I watch by:
Masala blockbusters, quiet Iranian dramas, Pixar tearjerkers, Korean thrillers โ great filmmaking doesn't check passports.
A perfect match cut or a patient long take can say more than a page of dialogue. I notice โ and I'll point it out.
A take should make you want to watch the film, not save you the trouble. The ANT Movies group runs on this rule.
Some films deserve the theatre. I'll always tell you which ones are worth the ticket versus the couch.
For every new release, there's a classic that did it first โ and often better. Expect throwback recommendations.
Disagree with my take? Perfect. The best part of loving movies is arguing about them with people who love them too.
Straight from my feed โ the recent verdicts. Follow on Facebook for more.
"MJ โ there will never be anyone like him ever. This movie is a dream watch. I like movies for entertainment's sake, and this does everything right to keep one mesmerized."
"Shocking. Terrifying. Funny. Beautiful. All legit feelings โ the one movie that is a must-watch for the current weird times."
"I am always fascinated by James Cameron and the way he thinks and executes." The Cameron half of the Nolan-or-Cameron thesis, in its natural habitat.
"Please don't go by nonsensical reviews on the internet. Brilliant in parts and good for the rest โ fresh characters, beautiful landscapes, just the right references to his classics. Mani sir, take a bow!"
I've been writing about movies since before streaming existed. Some vintage takes from my blog, We Need to Talk โ receipts included:
"Christopher Nolan is a genius... Action, masala, thrills, dialogues โ with brains." Watched Memento, Batman Begins, The Prestige and The Dark Knight in one week. No regrets.
Went against the global tide on this one โ and called Rahman's win as the only truly Indian achievement, before the Oscars agreed.
Sivaji as a marketing case study โ how Rajinikanth's film became a global phenomenon. The marketer and the movie buff, writing together.
"You may be good at your job but it doesn't mean you like doing it. If you don't make your destiny, somebody else will." A Rock On!! review that turned into a life thesis.
Spotted Dhoom 2 as Bollywood's first true "2"-suffix sequel โ a trendsetter piece on franchise culture, written before franchises ate Bollywood.
Om Shanti Om vs Saawariya โ and how the six-pack replaced the rain-drenched sari as Bollywood's marketing weapon of choice.
All New Things โ Movies. A no-spoiler zone for recommendations, hot takes and weekend watchlists. Scan the code or tap to join.