Letters to Juliet – A heart warming movie

Motion Picture : Letters to Juliet
Cast : Amanda Seyfried, Vanessa Redgrave, Chris Egan
Year of Release : 2010

“To send a letter is a good way to go somewhere without moving anything but your heart” - Phyllis Theroux

How true is this quote!!! Even though E-Mails, Messengers and SMS have become the swift mediums to stay connected, but nothing competes the charm of a affectionate letter enclosed in a envelope. Hollywood motion picture “Letters to Juliet” is all about re-discovering your old lost love.

Love finds you when you least expect it”


Destiny gives an unexpected opportunity to an elderly woman named Clara to reunite with her lover through help of Sophie, a New York fact checker. On her vacation to Verona with her fiancee, Sophie disovers an old letter of 1950’s written by a woman named Clara to her lover, Lorenzo.

 Sophie takes a liking to this unrequited message and decides to reply back to Clara. Destiny connects Sophie to Clara and her grandson Charlie in the legendary city of Verona, the home of Juliet Capulet. Sophie befriends 80 year old Clara and promises to help find her long lost love, Lorenzo and thus begins a new journey for search of love. During this sweet pursuit of love, an affectionate bonding takes place between Sophie and Charlie. Though they like each other, Sophie and Charlie hesitate to express their feelings to each other. 
Since Clara has lost the clue of the whereabouts of Lorenzo, it becomes hard for Sophie and Charlie to find Lorenzo in the city of Verona. Though Charlie and Sophie knock the doors of the people with the name Lorenzo, they are unable to trace the real Lorenzo. As Clara is about to give her hope, Sophie and Charlie succeed to find the old Lorenzo. What happens next is series of sweet and heartwarming situations that change the destiny of Clara as well as Sophie.
This story reveolves around two woman, Sophie and Clara. One is looking for her long lost love and other searching for a true , sincere love in her life. Will Clara succeed to unite with Lorenzo? What happens of Sophie? Will she realize that her mean, workahaolic fiancee is not a match for her? Will Charlie express his feelings to Sophie? Come, discover the true meaning of love in the hollywood motion picture – Letters to Juliet featuring Amanda Seyfried, Vanessa Redgrave and Christopher Egan in the lead roles.

The best part about this movie is that it doesn’t have any high dose of emotions or melodrama. It’s a simple, lovable, heart warming romantic movie which will definitely bring a smile on your face. First of all, I loved the sweet performance of Amanda Seyfried as Sophie who helps Clara (played by Vanessa Redgrave) to find her long lost love. If you have penchant for romantic movies, then do rent a DVD of this movie or download it on Torrentz..

If you love this movie, then you will also like “French Kiss”, “You have got the mail”, “The Holiday” and “Leap Year”. Hope you all loved this post. Do comment.

Remembering Anand

Motion Picture : Anand
Cast : Amitabh Bachchan, Durga Khote, Sumita Sanyal, Dara Singh, Johnny Walker, Lalita Pawar, Ramesh Deo, Seema Deo and Rajesh Khanna as Anand Sehgal
Director : Hrishikesh Mukherjee
Music Director : Salil Chowdhury

“Kahin door jab din dhal jaaye, saanjh ki dulhan badan chupaye, chupke se aaye” -  Song from the movie Anand

Whenever I feel desolate, I always hum these lines in my mind. This song is very close to my heart and so is the movie and it’s memorable characters. I recall the memories of seeing ‘Anand’ on Doordarshan during my school days in 1992.

The movie  “Anand” is about discovering happiness even in the hours of adverisities. The story revolves around Dr. Bhaskar Bannerjee (played by Amitabh Bachchan) and his optimistic, happy go lucky patient Anand Sehgal (played by Rajesh Khanna). The story of the movie is presented in flashback where Dr.Bhaskar Bannerjee, now a renowned cancer specialist recalls the memories of his days he spent while treating his patient named Anand.

Even though Anand is suffering from a fatal disease, he believes in living life at the fullest. Since he desires to spend his last days cheerfully, he leaves hospital without informing the staff and decides to stay at Bhaskar’s house so that he can get the opportunity to fill every moment of life with compassion and happiness.

 On one side, Bhaskar is a shy and quiet person while on the other side, Anand is a smart, charming chatterbox. Initially, Bhaskar refrains from Anand, but slowly Bhaskar discovers the true meaning of life in the companionship of Anand. Anand doesn’t leaves any opportunity in befriending people around him and always succeeds in winning their hearts with his innocent charm. As the movie progresses, Anand’s health starts worsening and Dr.Bhaskar puts all his effort to save Anand. Even though Anand passes away in the climax, his short life motivates Dr.Bhaskar to become a successful cancer specialist and a author of the book titled “Anand”.

“ Babu Moshay, Zindagi badi honi chahiye, lambi nahin” (Life should be big, not long)  – A memorable dialogue from movie Anand

Every dialogue from this movie is memorable. The movie not only brings a smile on your face, but also makes you break in tears during the climax. I was deeply touched with the ending scene and felt like as I had lost one of my close friend. Such was the charm of the lively, happy go lucky and talkative character named Anand.

The role of Anand was earlier offered to Kishore Kumar, but luck was favorable for Rajesh Khanna. As the camera rolled, Rajesh Khanna was ready to step in the shoes of Anand. No other actor could have portrayed the role of Anand with such charm and liveliness as Rajesh Khanna did. This role was really authorbacked!!!. After watching this movie, I became a die hard fan of director Hrishikesh Mukherjee and actor Rajesh Khanna. All the songs in this movie are soulful and were composed by Salil Chaudhari, the legendary music composer.


Both these characters, Anand and Dr.Bhaskar became popular in the history of Indian cinema and were considered as a milestones in the careers of Rajesh Khanna and the struggling Amitabh Bachchan, who later went on to become the next super star. The characters of this movie were believable and the storyline had a slice of reality which really appealed to the audience of all classes.  Even the 2003 movie “Kal ho na ho” was inspired by Anand.
Shahrukh Khan portrayed the role of a weak hearted patient which was equally memorable.

Through this article, I have taken a small effort to revive the era of 70’s cinema and pay a tribute to the legendary actor Rajesh Khanna, also known as “Anand”.

Have you ever met across any such person like Anand in your life? The person may be your teacher, classmate, professor, soulmate, neighbour or your close friend. Just do share your experiences by commenting on this article. Whatever may be the situation in the life, always stay smiling and never shed your tears. Friends, I hate tears L

Celebrate the moments of your life cheerfully and always say “All is well”.

Dear John – A heart warming classic

Movie: Dear John
Cast: Channing Tatum, Amanda Seyfried, Richard Jenkins and Henry Thomas
Director: Lasse Hallstrom
Distributor: Screen Gems
Release Date: 5^th Feb 2010
Music: Deborah Lurie
Story: Nicholas Sparks

“Two Weeks Together. That’s all it took. Two weeks to fall in love” – Lines from movie “Dear John”

The very first thing that captivates you in this movie is the soothing music composed by Deborah Lurie. It not only synchronizes with the dazzling cinematography, but also reflects the emotions and soul of the storyline written by Nicholas Sparks. Adapted from the 2006 novel, Movie “Dear John” is a timeless love story set against the backdrop of 9/11 events and revolves around John Tyree and Savannah, the lead protagonists who continue to express their emotions through letters even in the heartbreaking years of separation. The solitary life of soldier John Tyree changes the moment he meets the sweet, bubbly and optimistic Savannah during his leave in spring of 2001. The first meeting scene between John and Savannah has been shot very beautifully on the exotic beaches of North Carolina. When Savannah’s handbag suddenly falls in the sea, John takes a leap in the sea to retrieve the purse to the young lady. This scene has been beautifully written by Nicholas Sparks in his book and succeeds to bring a smile on the face of readers. In just 2 weeks, John and Savannah realize that they are made for each other.

But as the 9/11 event occurs, John gets the official orders to join in for war.
The separation tears apart their togetherness, but John and Savannah endure this distance by writing letters to each other. Fate takes a drastic turn when John gets a letter from Savannah about her wedding. Though John re-enlists in armed forces to stay away from Savannah, fate brings them back together and John realizes the real truth behind Savannah’s wedding.  Will John and Savannah re-unite? Will John be able to forgive Savannah? Come; embark on the journey of love with John and Savannah in 2010’s romantic movie – Dear John.

What I like best about the movie is that it’s a simply sweet romantic story without any excessive melodrama and succeeds to find a place in your heart forever.  This excellent romantic story is not just about love between two individuals, it’s also a heart warming story between a father and a son. This novel is a tender, heart warming and a weepy tale of love and togetherness. Performance wise, Amanda Seyfried’s role as Savannah is really believable and sweet. Channing Tatum is truly convincing as John Tyree. Once you have seen this movie, do grab the copy of novel “Dear John” and you will truly enjoy reading this sweet story of John and Savannah.

If you enjoy seeing “Dear John”, also check out the movie “The Notebook” which is again an adaptation of the novel written by Nicholas Sparks. Hope you liked this article.

The Count of Monte Cristo - A thrilling classic

The Count of Monte Cristo is the only novel that has been adapted and made into movies several times with a plot of a hero taking vengeance against the villains who caused injustice on him. Sounds like a typical Bollywood movie! If you are looking out for a novel with elements like treachery, betrayal, adventure, revenge, treasures, pirates, then Count of Monte Cristo is the book you can really count on.

Written by Alexandre Dumas, the premise of the story is set in France during the Napoleonic era and the main protagonist of this novel is Edmond Dantes, the merchant sailor who is accused of being a traitor by his arch enemies, Danglars, Fernand and deputy prosecutor, Villefort. As Edmond Dantes is about to wed his soul mate, Mercedes, Edmond is charged of conspiracy and deported to dark dungeon cells of Chateau D;If. Banging the doors of the dark cells crazily, Edmond’s only hope is to see his father and his lady love Mercedes but all his efforts are in vain. After spending 14 years in Chateau D’ If, Edmond Dantes gets a new lease of life in form of prison mate, father faria who trains him in every art and makes him aware of the enemies who were responsible for ruining his life. But misfortune strikes again with the death of father faria and once again Edmond Dantes is left alone. But before dying, Faria claims Edmond as his successor and gives him the clue of a treasure at Monte Cristo. Does Edmond Dantes succeeds in escaping from Chateau D’if? What identity does Edmond adopt to take vengeance on his enemies? Do Edmond and Mercedes unite? Who is count of Monte Cristo? All these breathtaking answers will unfold as you turn on the pages of the classic masterpiece “The Count of Monte Cristo”.

Like 3 Musketeers, Count of Monte Cristo is another popular novel of Alexandre Dumas which has been liked by readers for several generations. If you are looking for historical thrillers, then Count of Monte Cristo lives up to the expectations. Reading novels of Alexandre Dumas gives you a feel of watching an action, adventure Hollywood movies full of thrills. Apart from reading Count of Monte Cristo, I also have enjoyed his other books – 3 Musketeers and Man in the iron mask.  If you enjoy reading this book, you will also like Ivanhoe, King Arthur and Knights of round table, Robinhood, Prisoner of Zenda.

Come, live the adventure with Count of Monte Cristo.

Water Horse- Legend of the deep: A perfect holiday treat!

Motion Picture: Water Horse- Legend of the deep
Cast: Ben Chaplin, Brian Cox, Emily Watson and Alex Etel
Release Date – 2007

Have you ever heard about a friendship between a boy and a water horse? You surely didn’t. The childhood of every boy and girl is fascinated by bedtime stories filled with princess, Knights, dragons and mythical creatures. Presented by the makers of Chronicles of Narnia, Water Horse-Legend of the deep is also one such bedtime story which is a cheerful and an extraordinary saga of friendship between Angus and the water horse.

Synopsis: The opening scene of the movie begins with an old man narrating a story about a sea horse to a couple and the story moves in flashback to 1940 and the viewers are introduced to a boy named Angus who is impatiently waiting for the return of his long lost father who is missing in the war.  The solitary life of Angus takes a miraculous turn when he discovers a huge egg lying on the shores of Loch Ness. Angus keeps the egg hidden in the store house, only to explore a magic that will change his life forever. When the hatchling comes out of the egg, Angus realizes that this creature is actually a sea horse. Angus not only feeds the mythical sea horse, but also keeps it hidden from the eyes of his mother and sister. A friendship develops between Angus and the sea horse during the time and they both share the sweetest moments of the companionship. With this sea horse, Angus discovers a guardian in this sea creature. This sea horse not only brings happiness back in life of Angus, but also helps get him rid of the fear of water.


But the sweet trouble for Angus actually begins as the sea horse starts growing in size every day. Angus confides about the hidden sea horse to his sister and they together start planning to find a secure place for this mythical sea horse. How Angus and his sister manage to hide the sea horse from the world is projected very beautifully by acclaimed director Jay Russels. If you are planning to watch a family movie with your kids, then Water Horse – Legend of the Deep is a perfect treat for your entire family. Every scene of this heart warming movie is filled with breathtaking visuals & cheerful moments which will definitely bring a smile on your face. I consider this movie more beautiful than E.T and recommend this as a delightful classic movie. Go, enjoy the delightful moments of Water horse with your family!!!!

The Vow

The Vow – Movie Preview

Movie: The Vow
Cast: Channing Tatum, Rachael Mcadams, Scott speedman
Director: Michael Sucsy
Distributors: Screen Gems
Release Date: 10^th February 2012

Preview: Slated to release on eve of Valentine, The Vow is the latest Hollywood motion picture which is inspired by true events happened in the life of couples staying in Las Vegas. The happy marital life of Leo is shattered to pieces when his wife meets with a fatal accident and loses her memory. How Leo wins back the affection of his soul mate is best to be seen on the silver screen on 10^th February 2012.


                                           View the Exclusive trailer of The Vow 

The Vow is an inspiring story of true love, hope and compassion which will definitely touch your heart J

Thanks
Prashant Badiger

Untold story of Bengali Braveheart - Surya Sen



Chittagong Leader and Martyr: Surya Sen



Surya Sen – The Chittagong Hero
(March 22 1894- January 12 1934)
Birth Place: Naopara, Chittagong

On January 12, 1934, British officials entered the cell of their captured revolutionary and brutally tortured him by breaking all his teeth, limbs and joints with hammer. The torture was so cruel and painful that the revolutionary couldn’t even scream. The revolutionary was hanged unconsciously and later his dead body was put in a metallic cage and was thrown into sea. What was such fear in minds of British that they had to brutally hang the revolutionary? This revolutionary was none other than Surya Sen, the valiant Bengali revolutionary who shook the British Empire by simultaneously attacking British cantonment, European club, Telegraph office, railway line and armory in Chittagong. Through this revolt, Surya Sen had created a strong awakening in minds of Indians to lift up weapons against the tyrant British supremacy.

The martyrdom of Bhagat Singh on 23^rd March 1931 has inspired several freedom fighters to plunge themselves in the freedom struggle and Surya Sen was one of them. Surya Sen’s only dream was to make his nation free from the grip of British and his first initiative was to attack the British resources and make Chittagong Independent. A teacher by profession, Surya Sen was fondly known as Masterda (teacher brother) who inspired and motivated students by narrating the stories of famous revolutionaries like Khudiram Bose. He participated in all the freedom movements and activities of Indian National Congress and highly admired the principles of Mahatma Gandhi. But his dreams were short lived. The violent Chauri Chaura Incident not only hurt Gandhiji, but also compelled him to withdraw the non co-operation movement. With the coming times, Surya Sen realized that revolutionary action is only the way to resist the British force.

The initiative and action plan of Surya Sen was supported by his fellow members and colleagues- Ganesh Ghosh, Ambika Chakravarti, Anant Singh, Lokenath Bal, Nirmal Sen and prominent women revolutionaries like Kalpana Dutta and Pritilata Waddedar. With help of bunch of teenagers, Surya Sen devised a strategy to raid the British armoury, cantonment, telegraph office, railway line and European club on the same day – 18 April 1830 and free their homeland Chittagong from British Empire .Though the raid was successful, the revolutionaries later realized that there were weapons, but no ammunition.

Collecting the minimum weapons, Surya Sen and his team confronted the British army and managed to hoist the Indian Flag in police armoury. After the raid, Surya Sen and his group marched to Jalalabad Hills where they again had to face the bullets fired by the British Army. Several teenage revolutionaries lost their lives in the encounter and Tegra, the younger brother of Lokenath Bal was one of them. Later a revolutionary among the group of Surya Sen betrayed him by giving clues and information about their activities to the British. Slowly all the members were captured or killed in the encounter planned by the British. Even Pritilata Waddedar sacrificed her life during the attack on Pahartali European Club.

                                                         A rare photograph of Pritilata Waddedar 

Capture and Death Sentence: Even though Surya Sen managed to escape from the eye of British, he was fatally captured on February 1933 in Gairala Village.  The death sentence to Surya Sen completely shattered the dreams of his members who had cherished a dream to free motherland from clutches of foreign supremacy. Surya Sen was hanged along with another patriot Tarakeshwar Dastidar on January 12, 1934. Though his efforts didn’t succeed, his dream to free India finally came true on 15^th August 1947. It is very sad to know that the effort of the Chittagong martyrs hasn’t been told to young generation in detail.

Literary  Adaptations: The Chittagong armoury raid was been retold into a novel called – Do or Die : The Chittagong Uprising, written by Manini Chatterjee.  Even India Book House published a graphical story book on life, struggle and martyrdom of Surya Sen.

Recently a Hindi motion picture: Khelein Hum jee jaan se, directed by Ashutosh Gowariker was based on life and martyrdom of Surya Sen who played a pivotal role in attacking the British resources with full might.

Even the movie was equally inspiring and retold the legend of Surya Sen whose efforts got dispersed in pages of history. Abhishek Bachchan portrayed the role of Surya Sen with perfection and showcased the patriotic emotions with finesse.

Through this blog post, I have taken a small, humble effort to inform you about the martyrdom of a brave son of motherland who sacrificed everything for sake of our nation’s independence. I am looking forward to write more blog posts on revolutionaries like Khudiram Bose, Veena Das, Jatin Das, Sukhdev, Babu Ghenu and make their efforts informed to the world. Hope you support me in this initiative by reading these blog posts and convey your suggestions.

Vande Mataram
Prashant Badiger