Notes from the Mountaintop

Sometimes, just as sleep is hard to come by after a tiring day; peace can be hard to find at the end of an eventful life. Especially if one's done and endured so much in a lifetime. At least, HE believed so. One more thing HE religiously believed of was, "When in doubt; consult the Old Monk". In all likelihood, today seemed like an important consultation.  Old Monk was his oldest pal and the also the most faithful. He was there by his side...

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Beasts of the Southern Wild (2012) - Movie Review

Once there was a Hushpuppy, and she lived with her daddy in The Bathtub. Even after a million years, the scientists and moviebuffs of the future will be delighted to know it. Directed by Benh Zeitlin, 'Beasts of the Southern Wild' is a compelling piece of art about a mystical land of the beasts and love of a father and his daughter.    The plot is set in the fictional island/community called 'The Bathtub'; a secluded locality on...

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Silver Linings Playbook (2012) - Movie Review

Based on a novel by the same name, 'Silver Linings Playbook' may not be the most memorable of movies. But it definitely has an inescapable charm driven by an ensemble of affable characters and sterling performances.  A testimony to that being the 8 Oscar nominations including Best Picture, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actor and Best Supporting Actress. Written & Directed by David O. Russell (director of The Fighter),...

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Les Miserables (2012) - Movie Review

It wouldn't be just to review this movie in isolation to the masterpiece from Victor Hugo. So, I wouldn't even attempt to do it. All the more when Les Miserables (2012) remains so faithful to the novel. After all, who dares flirt with near perfection. The Plot: For the unaware, Les Miserables is a timeless tale; one that will test the corners and the depths of the heart and stir up every emotion residing in there. Set in the early to...

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Django Unchained (2012) - Movie Review

Yes, the old jungle saying is still true."Nobody can film a bloodbath better than Tarantino and none can spill blood more beautifully than his characters".  Surprise to none, Django Unchained, written & directed by Quentin Tarantino is indeed a glorified account of blood sputtering revenge; set in an age of nobody's seen no nigger on a horse. In keeping with the code of Tarantino-esque school of film making, the first scene sets...

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Lincoln (2012) - Movie Review

Lincoln (2012) infuses life into the history books; unlike any other on this topic. This winner from Steven Speilberg is a delight for historians as much as the Oscar jury. With a total of 12 nominations that include Best Picture, Best Direction, Best performance in the lead and supporting roles, Lincoln leads the race for the Oscars (85th Annual Academy Awards). As the American civil war (1861-1865) between the United States (Union/North)...

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