OTT? Movies? Books? You name it, we covered it on all things 'Pop Culture' in 2023
Hey, pop culture enthusiasts! Here’s a recap of your 2023 watchlist. Whether you binge watched a movie, an OTT series or read a classic novel without a stop, we had you covered on the entertainment front this past year.
Let’s dive into what we explored together while reading between the lines and watching behind the frames:
From Scratch on Netflix breaks the mould of typical romantic series with its old-school charm, unique screenplay, and a commitment-driven narrative. Inspired by Tembi Locke's memoir, the eight-episode drama portrays the cross-cultural love story of Black American Amahle and Sicilian chef Lino Ortolano. The series unfolds a classic plot with intense twists, exploring challenges like cultural differences, cancer, and conflicting familial ties. Unlike clichés, this time, the male character sacrifices, leaving his native land for love. The tear-jerker resonates with those who believe in the transformative power of love amid life's challenges and cultural nuances.
The Cornetto Trilogy, comprising Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz, and The World's End, directed by Edgar Wright, Simon Pegg, and Nick Frost, is a hilarious and genre-defying idea. Praised for its unique blend of comedy, action, and genre shifts, the trilogy follows characters navigating a zombie apocalypse, a small village's mysteries, and an alien invasion during a pub crawl. Simon Pegg and Nick Frost's chemistry and Edgar Wright's dynamic directing style shine. Each film, represented by a Cornetto ice cream flavour, adds a delightful touch. A cult favourite, this British comedy trilogy promises laughter and entertainment for diverse tastes.
Zack Snyder's Batman vs Superman: Dawn of Justice serves as my comfort film, offering a unique take on the DC universe. The casting, including Henry Cavill, Gal Gadot, and Ben Affleck, stands out, with Jesse Eisenberg's Lex Luthor leaving a lasting impression. The epic gladiator fight between Superman and Batman is a visual treat, and the unspoken chemistry between Clark and Lois adds depth. The film's darker tones and greyish atmosphere set it apart from typical superhero movies, showcasing Zack Snyder's bold vision. While Ben Affleck's Batman receives mixed reviews for breaking tradition, the overall production, direction, and storyline earn praise, making it a must-watch.
Vadh explores the thin line between murder and slaughter in a gripping dark thriller. The plot revolves around an ordinary couple facing harassment from a loan shark due to their son's refusal to support them. Director Jaspal Singh Sandhu crafts the film with minimal resources, featuring standout performances from Sanjay Mishra and Neena Gupta. The mystery unfolds in the play of light and darkness, creating a gripping atmosphere. Although lacking a star-studded cast, the film, available on Netflix, keeps viewers on edge, posing thought-provoking questions about crime and the perfect crime. Don't miss this riveting portrayal of ordinary lives caught in the battle of survival.
Mario Puzo's novel, The Godfather, transformed into a cinematic masterpiece by Francis Ford Coppola, has left an indelible mark since its 1972 release. The film's small yet intense setting draws us into the world of the Corleone Mafia family, portraying fundamentally bad characters with compelling depth. Marlon Brando's portrayal of Don Vito Corleone is iconic, earning him an Academy Award. Exceptional cinematography by Gordon Willis and a haunting score by Nino Rota enhance the film's gritty ambiance. The performances of Al Pacino, James Caan, and Diane Keaton add layers to the narrative, making The Godfather, a timeless classic and essential cinematic experience.
This heartwarming tale unfolds through whimsical sketches and insightful conversations, depicting the unlikely friendships among a homesick boy, a wise mole, a wounded fox, and a gentle horse. The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse explores life's meaning, shares fears, and discovers the power of love and kindness. The characters' distinct traits—curiosity, greed, silence, and wisdom—blend to create a poignant narrative. The book's hand-drawn images convey a delicate yet powerful simplicity, while the comments offer nuggets of authentic wisdom. A true gem, this hopeful and uplifting story transcends age, providing laughter, strength, and encouragement—an enriching experience for readers of all ages.
Studio Ghibli, a powerhouse in animation, enchants audiences globally with its captivating storytelling and hand-drawn magic. Founded by visionaries Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata, the studio transcends age boundaries, exploring complex themes in visually stunning films. Spirited Away offers a transformative journey into a magical realm, while My Neighbour Totoro embodies childhood innocence. Princess Mononoke delves into environmentalism, and Howl's Moving Castle weaves an enchanting tale of love and courage. Ponyo celebrates the joy of childhood. Studio Ghibli's commitment to hand-drawn artistry and profound storytelling cements its legacy as a beacon of creativity, inspiring generations worldwide.
Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer navigates the intricate landscape of power and politics, transforming from a race against time to build the atomic bomb into a riveting political drama. Despite a stellar ensemble and a three-hour runtime, character depth remains elusive. Nolan avoids slow-motion, maintaining a steady pace. Adapted from 'American Prometheus,' the film caters to history buffs with Nolan's cinematic flair. Cilian Murphy as J. Robert Oppenheimer captivates with a chilly aloofness, exploring the physicist's complex journey from hero to alleged communist. The film, focusing on Oppenheimer's experiences, skilfully avoids emotional manipulation and concludes with disquieting reflections on war and peace.
India's pop culture is a captivating fusion of tradition and modernity, seamlessly connecting generations. Bollywood, the renowned film industry, epitomizes this blend, infusing traditional dance forms like Kathak and Bharatanatyam with contemporary twists. Movies like Padmaavat and Bajirao Mastani harmonize historical narratives with modern filmmaking, creating a unique cinematic experience. In music, classical instruments meet modern genres, as seen in songs like Prabhuji by Anurag Saikia, Asees Kaur, and Nucleya. Indian art and literature draw inspiration from ancient myths, bridging narratives across eras. This cultural phenomenon, embracing international trends and digital innovation, resonates globally, preserving heritage while embracing progress.
For sci-fi enthusiasts seeking underrated gems, The 100 offers an intriguing exploration of dystopian societies on Netflix, while post-pandemic scenarios are vividly portrayed in gripping shows like Sweet Tooth and Last of Us. Delving into space-tech magic, Life in Space, Another Life, and Expanse provide captivating space exploration narratives. For mind-bending space-time alterations, Dark and the light-hearted Dirk Gently are recommended. Exploring the concept of technology as a curse, Black Mirror, Brave New World, and Matrix provoke thought. Fantasy and mythology lovers can dive into book series like Percy Jackson, Heroes of Olympus, Magnus Chase, Carter Kane, and Aru Shah, along with favourite shows like Ragnarök, Shadows and Bones, Shannara, and Wheel of Time.
Ship of Theseus (2012), directed by Anand Gandhi, embarks on a philosophical journey, exploring identity, ethics, and existence through three interconnected narratives. Drawing inspiration from the Ship of Theseus paradox, the film weaves stories of a visually impaired photographer, a monk facing organ transplant dilemmas, and a stockbroker on an ethical mission. Culminating in the theme of organ transplants, the movie delves into the essence of identity and human interconnectedness. Anchored in philosophical depth, the film's contemplative pacing, visual artistry, and impactful score contribute to its global acclaim, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cinema and encouraging unconventional narratives.
Ravinder Singh's This Love that Feels Right explores the sensitive topic of love outside marriage, unfolding the story of Naina, who finds unexpected love with Aarav. The novel delves into the complexities of relationships, marriage, and societal expectations. Despite the predictable storyline, the book tackles the taboo subject with boldness, questioning societal norms. The characters' emotional journey, especially in Chapter 23, resonates, offering a unique perspective on love and life. Singh's narrative challenges conventions, prompting readers to reconsider their views on unconventional relationships. The book, while controversial, serves as a mirror to contemporary society, creating a thought-provoking and impactful narrative.
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