The Movie-Watching Hermit

INVICTUS: 10 Best Benecio Del Toro Movies

2017-09-18T03:23:00.000-07:00

I still remember the impassioned eyes and the dead stare that Toro had when he executed the Mafia’s family at the end of ‘Sicario’. I have never seen a more refined and restraint performance before. That was my first movie of him. And since then, there has been no turning back. And every time he inhabited a character in a movie, he managed to surprise and mesmerize . The certain nuances that he creates of the character always embellish their images in our heads. His intensity and intrepid way of carrying himself has ceased to amaze. Though remaining private and away from the glitz and glamour, Toro’s status as a global superstar is uncontested.

Hailing from Puerto Rico, his love affair with Mexico and its vestigial traditions is well documented. He has featured most prominently in films that depict the afflictions inflicted on the country, and deals with the problem of drugs. We have complied a list of 10 10 Best Benicio Del Toro Movies That Showcase His Talent. Happy reading!

10. Excess Baggage (1997)

It has often been purported in the media that he got this part due to his stint in ‘The Usual Suspects’. The light tone of the film interspersed with somber elements of kidnapping and abduction, invited Toro to display his range. And display he did. He played the role of Vincent Roche, a successful and experienced car thief who supports himself with his work. He is referred to as “an innocent thief” who happens to steal the car with Emily in the trunk. After this his entire life is turned upside down as he gets implicated in several schemes and becomes dependent on his “hostage” to survive. I swear to God when I first saw glimpses of his character, I thought it was Brad Pitt. His rugged looks played fine tunes to his tough-guy persona on screen. One of the underrated Benicio Del Toro movies.

9. Snatch (2000)

This wasn’t the first time he was playing a freaky, odd-ball character. It’s just his versatility that allows him to float through characters with effortless ease. Here he brought to life Franky “Four Fingers”, a textbook thief who intends to sell the piece de resistance, the biggest coup of his life: an 86-carat diamond, to a drug dealer. The shining filigree attracts a lot of eyes and admirers, who hatch plans to steal the thing. Toro unfortunately had limited screen time, which he adroitly made seem much longer, unraveling within the defined confines of his character with unmatched style and charisma.

8. Sin City (2005)

I don’t have a clue as to why people and media don’t discuss this gem of film more. I mean, I would keep it on the level of ‘Goodfellas’ and ‘Mean Streets’. While definitely lacking the humor and satirical quotient (believe me), it stands out in ambition and execution. The unique color processing of the film, substantially rendered black and white, while the color retained for some objects, flabbergasted audiences and critics alike. He played the character of Jack Rafferty, in the Big Fat Kill part, a detective lieutenant, stylized as a local hero in the media. He masquerades himself as Jackie Boy, a crude and condescending brat, who tortures and harasses his girlfriend Sheila. We saw exuberance and menacing charisma from the thespian in abundance in the film. He actually made us ambivalently sing praise in his glory, and fatuously vitiate his very existence. A defining act of courage.

7. The Usual Suspects (1995)

I don’t know why I always try and copy his way of speaking in the film. It’s just so breezy and effortless. So colloquial in his way of going about things, which makes him stick out like a sore thumb, defeating and dwarfing the professionalism around him. The lanky frame added to the appeal, and made every word coming out his mouth like little pearls that made us burst with laughter. One scene that instantly strikes the mind is the line-up scene, which well, in all honesty, the highlight of the film. The quintessential utility man, Toro delved into the environs of his character and let loose his persona and image that he built so meticulous over the years.

6. Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1998)

Oh this one made me feel so small and unimportant. This is perhaps the only time I have seen two characters vying for the audience’s attention, matched to closely, blow for blow. It was almost as if he was hooked on some seious blow for the duration of the help. While we can’t possibly say if he was or wasn’t, his twisted and inexplicably natural turn as Dr Gonzo stood out, and ensconced itself in our memories. Del Toro gained more than 45 pounds (18 kg) in nine weeks before filming began, and extensively researched Acosta’s life, reading books, talking to relatives, and even spending a week with the man.

5. Basquiat (1996)

Another supporting role that he made his own. Back then a relatively unknown commodity, Del Toro made the most of the opportunity provided and cemented the first brick of what would later become his image as an actor. Playing a delusioned and troubled young kid, he showed exemplary control and free-spirit to give us a tangible sense of the boy’s vague mental space. His maturity in the role were a profound match for his carefree and youthful shenanigans. While Toro’s burden of responsibility was shared in the film, he tortured himself during the filming, and remained in character through out. A stunning visualization of a celebrated graffiti artist.

4. Traffic

Another film, and another character with a crazy animalistic rage, who shows restraint. Toro shone like the stars in van Gogh’s Starry Night. He painted a sorry and helpless picture against the might and unethical attitude of the cartel. He championed the mood and the core of the character with much dexterity and skill. He again became a proud recipient of an Academy nomination, yet again bewildering people by not taking it home. The handheld camerawork was truly exquisite and apt in relaying chaos and hurriedness. A performance that lifts the film to a must-watch haven.

3. Che (2008)

There have been numerous renditions of the great revolutionary leader on screen. None have even come close to this visceral and scintillating piece of cinema, in particular its lead character. Toro incarnated the character with effortless ease and charm, and successfully managed to keep us engaged and terrified. For his role, Del Toro spent seven years “obsessively researching” Guevara’s life, which made him feel like he “earned his stripes” to interpret the character. Preparation included looking at Guevara’s photographs and reading his personal writings. Del Toro read Don Quixote, one of Guevara’s favorites, and the first book published and given out free after the Cuban Revolution. Del Toro then personally met with people from different stages of Guevara’s life, including Guevara’s younger brother and childhood friends, traveling to Cuba where Del Toro met Guevara’s widow, family, and “tons of people that loved this man”. A stunning turn as the rebellious leader didn’t get the attention it deserved. Just superb.

2. 21 Grams

A role that required him to show blissful restraint, and erupt egregiously in a medley of corked fury truly showed what Benicio Del Toro was capable of as an actor. The film fetched him his first Academy nomination for Best Actor, which in itself was surprising and deserved, and should have happened years ago. Del Toro plays a born-again Christian ex-convict whose faith is sorely tested in the aftermath of the accident. The film is brilliantly made by the prodigal G Innaritu, who is swiftly becoming a benchmark to emulate. His reserved emotions and body language showed a stance of acceptance and preemptive defense mechanisms. I was captivated and held hostage by his supreme performance, for which I think he should have taken the Golden trophy home.

1. Sicario (2015)

How did he not win for this film is incomprehensible to my dismayed mind. It was some of the best acting I have seen in years, a role that I would rate to be the best of recent times. Playing a grieving lawyer, who is hired by the CIA to track down and terminate the kingpin of the drug cartel, Toro showed so little yet told so much. His intensity in the movie absolutely blew me away, and made me question the prudence of the Academy’s mandate. He played the part with the precision of a surgeon, and the heart of a five year old. The biggest achievement of his was the attaining of the character’s indignant and bereaved being, which made him insouciant to the existence of others. He made us privy to the fact that emotions are at the best of times not expressed, but felt. The best work of his and of the decade. (excluding Daniel Day Lewis’ performance in ‘There Will Be Blood’)

IN CONVERSATION: Why 'The Conversation' is Francis Coppola's Best Work

2017-07-06T01:15:00.000-07:00

I am in no way implying ‘The Godfather’ and ‘The Godfather II’ to be any lesser. They are maybe even more. But they aren’t quite like ‘The Conversation’. This 1974 psychological-mystery thriller film was written, directed and produced by Francis Ford Coppola. The film stars Gene Hackman as the taciturn and reserved Harry Caul, a surveillance expert who gets involved in a moral dilemma owing to occupational hazards. The supporting cast includes names like James Cazale, Harrison Ford, Cindy Williams and Robert Duvall. It is absolutely preposterous how Coppola framed a film around a single eight word sentence. The whole movie hinges on a particular piece of conversation his assignments have. And how Harry juxtaposes the phrases by re-playing it over and over again. Every time he plays them, he has a new interpretation and further descends into the moral quandary to be professional, or be a human being.

Coppola is very meticulous with details of the sets and the characters to present to us an idea of how Harry actually is. Starting with his reaction and baffling look, when a neighbor wishes him on his birthday. Next is the house door, which is shown to have not one, not two, but three locks. Even when he opens the locks with his own keys, there stimulates an alarm, indicating an intrusion in his kingdom of secrecy. How indignant and defensive he becomes when he sees a bottle of champagne at his door-step, and discovering he doesn’t have the “only key”, immediately indulging in an harangue with his society manager. How he then proceeds to tell her he has nothing personal except for “his keys.” How he then directs her to send his mail to a post office with a combination on it. He also doesn’t work in a “building”. He works in a dilapidated abandoned building behind the railway tracks. How he ditches a probable lover, when she asks a couple of mundane questions. This is just about two minutes of film that I described! When I said meticulous, I meant METICULOUS! This presents to us how much Harry is cognizant about the preservation of his privacy. More than anything else in the world, he wishes to remain obscure to others, and intends to take any given measure to achieve it. His metric of endeavors might delude some into thinking he is some kind of a psychotic person, with many citing the last scene of the film as its confirmation. But what they don’t understand, is the reaction is corollary to the transgression of his privacy, which he safeguarded more than his life. Considering how much he values it, such notions should be immediately dismissed. Another distinct trait of the character is how perennially he dons a rain-coat, irrespective of whether its raining or not. This is something that is then explained to us through a dream, or rather a nightmare, he is having through flashbacks.

One of the other themes in the film is the resemblance of its premise to the Watergate Scandal, which forced the then President Richard Nixon to resign from office. The circumstances and the traits of the farce have been incorporated in the movie. Its political roots and relevance was seen a fitting parody of the Government’s failed attempts at covering-up the issue, a facsimile of Harry not being proficient at this particular job. The tapping of the phones, bugging of the rival contemporaries’ offices and the abuse of power by the incompetent administration all make up for a familiar tone in the film. The oppression of the weaker facets present in the society by using a superlative position in the chain is something that Martin Stentt and the Director do in the film. The movie is also about Harry’s detachment from the physical world, and his state of mind, on the periphery of madness.

The score certainly added legs and virtuoso to the film. Its gripping medley of conflict and hysteria is aptly used to keep the audience engrossed. Very rarely do we see an instance when the music of the film furnishes the tone of the film. The distortion in the music is emblematic to the one Harry seems to be living in. Gene Hackman’s credentials were further bolstered by the 1971 ‘French Connection’ and his performance in ‘The Conversation’ gave him global stardom and acclaim. His performance is considered “one of the most affecting and tragic characters in the movies.” Many described it as his “career peak”, with Hackman himself admitting to it being his favorite film. Harry’s descent in paranoia and euphoric hysteria was a result of his own accord with being self-dependent. Not having any friends, no intimate human interactions and no family cocoon him into a shell, whose shackles he is unable to break. He repudiates any attempts to change the status quo and sees any attempt thereby an intrusion of his privacy. He has concocted his own world, confined in the four walls of his apartment and his work place. He is gradually falling into an abyss, from where it would be incorrigible for him to come back.

The film has repeated flashbacks of the conversation the pair had, playing in a loop, which essentially is Harry’s subconscious. “He’d kill us if he had the chance.” missed a little punctuation mark, which was the difference in what Harry discerned and was convinced of and what actually was the matter. His sleepless nights and quandary of moral dilemma and professionalism step his descent into paranoia and euphoric hysteria.

The only other thing Harry seems to do apart from his job, is playing the saxophone. He is shown playing it with the tunes of jazz on his recorder, and his tryst with syncing with them. He has this motherly love for the instrument. Amidst a world of strangers and the world he doesn’t understand, his saxophone is his lifeline, his partner. The climax will take your breath away. Harry decides to act and follows the pair in question to the hotel they talk about and lets the adjoining room to get in on the details. Expecting the murder to take place, he sets up a surveillance and listens in on the room. On hearing noises in the room, he proceeds to enter the room. Investigating, he finds nothing until, the next day he finds out that it is their employer, who happens to be his employer as well, is murdered by the pair. “He’d kill us, if he had the chance.” was actually a precautionary remark, rather than a threat. Following this, he gets a call on his home telephone, which is obscure to anyone but himself, finally pushing him into the dark abyss of paranoia and hysteria, from which he is unable to recover. A fit of fear and anxiety overcomes him and he proceeds to completely obliterate his apartment, in pursuit of finding the bug. He is convinced that he has been under surveillance throughout the duration of the incidents. The irony-clad end, which sees him destroy everything but his saxophone, which he least expects to have the bug, actually has it. The poetic end, where he sits and plays his saxophone amidst the complete and utter destruction of his only world, sends chills down your spine. That’s why, this film is one of the greatest thriller films ever made!

HUH?: Great Casts That Couldn't Save A Shit Movie

2017-07-04T23:46:00.002-07:00

A good cast doesn’t necessarily translate into a good movie. As the great Alfred Hitchcock once said: “A great film is made by three things. Script, the script, and the script.” Well, that isn’t t the case either. A good movie is a successful unison of many factors, the primary two being the script and a good cast. But we are focusing more at movies that had great cast, but lacked some other essential elements. What a good cast does ensure is the film’s profitability at the box office, ensuring handsome returns. Well, not always. The market is erratic and the audience unreliable. Anyways, enjoy the list of these bad movies featuring a great cast. Happy reading!

15. Won’t Back Down (2012)

Star Cast: Viola Davis, Holly Hunter, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Oscar Isaac

Okay, so one thing that I forgot to mention is the fact that a bad movie doesn’t necessarily have bad performances. The aforementioned was exactly the case in this one, with Davis yet again proving to be stupefying. The movie had Oscars written all over it, featuring a stellar cast and a workable plot. But the direction and the cliched screenplay played spoil sport, limiting the movie to being just an average one. At times endearing, other volatile, the film was a mixed back and lacked a firm vision. To start something, you need commitment. But to end something, you need consistency. While the former was found in abundance, the latter was nowhere to be seen.

14. Seventh Son (2014)

Star Cast: Julianne Moore, Jeff Bridges, Alicia Vikander, Kit Harington.

At times, actors chose satisfying their growling stomachs over fulfilling the fetishes of cinephiles. Once again, the cast stood upto the notion. The plot involves the ageing master wizard John, who needs an apprentice when a malicious witch escapes from his confines. After searching high and low, he finds Thomas and hopes that he can learn the art and help the locals. Yes, even the plot was cliched and thus lacked surprises. The visual appeal though was a saving grace, but the efforts to embellish it with 3D certainly splashed water over what did work. Having three Academy winners and one Jon Snow wasn’t enough. Then what will be?

13. Charlie’s Angels : Full Throttle(2003)

Star Cast: Cameron DIaz, Lucy Liu, Demi Moore, Drew Barrymore.

When women who look like that aren’t enough, then nothing is ever enough. The all female lead cast is a dream come true for a teenager boy. Or any male for that matter. While visually the women in black are appealing, the overall experience is far from satisfactory. A flawed script, with unsurprising surprises, the acting, woeful to be considerate, and the idea to make the film, stupid. With no dearth of fatuous sub-plots, the film will give you nightmares for some time. Well, males excluded.

12. Valentine’s Day (2010)

Star Cast: Julia Roberts, Anne Hathaway, Taylor Swift, Taylor Lautner, Ashton Kutcher.

I couldn’t mention all of them. It was virtually impossible for me. The big cast is due to the film’s plot being a web of sub-plots. It focuses on certain story-lines, each involving a couple with strained relationships, struggling through the abnormalities of their daily lives. I am not a big fan of such movies. They aren’t more than kitschy potbboilers made with just one aim in mind: money (Kevin O’Leary style). With no considerable sense and vision in mind, the plots are loosely written, and the characters under screened. The constellation of stars certainly weren’t enough to save an unnecessary movie.

11. All the King’s Men (2006)

Star Cast: Sean Penn, Anthony Hopkins, Kate Winslet, Jude Law.

This is one of many films that stars Sean Penn in the list. I didn’t even mention Mark Ruffalo and James Gandolfini. Perhaps becasue of the pain, that I felt when I saw such incredible amounts of talent go down the drain. It couldn’t even prove itself to be a monetary viable operation. In fact, far from it, it couldn’t even recur its budget and became one of the biggest flops of that year. The budget inflated considerably due to the stars’ exorbitant fees. $55 million for a political drama is beyond comprehension, unless the money is a bribe (because of it being a political drama). I know, lame attempt at humor. The movie was no different, albeit it wasn’t intentional.

10. Sphere (1998)

Star Cast: Dustin Hoffman, Sharon Stone, Samuel L Jackson, Liev Schriber.

The cast and the results are egregiously unaligned. The plot convulses on an alien spacecraft, that is discovered in the Pacific and a team of scientists are sent to investigate. They discover a perfect metal sphere. What is the sphere’s purpose, and why is it on the ocean floor? While the idea wasn’t so bad, the film desperately lacked execution. The cast does put up a brave effort, with some scenes do being viscerally challenging. But those few minutes of brilliance can’t account for a weak script and an over-ambitious director.

9. Aloha (2015)

Star Cast: Emma Stone, John Krasinski, Bradley Cooper, Rachel McCadams.

The movie got muddled in the whitewash controversy, and all that was wrong with the movie was ignorantly forgotten. Yes, the litany starts with the casting. Apparently the studio couldn’t find a capable actor of Asian-American descent, and ended up casting Stone. Even though we all know the character could have been a migrant, but come on. We all know that wasn’t the intention. The heavy artillery cast miserably failed to fire, and had empty promises and no smoke. The military angle that the writers tried to work with backfired, and further dampened its chances of shining at the box office. In the end, it died a painful and silent death, silent at the box office I mean.

8. Batman Forever (1995)

Star Cast: Val Kilmer, Tommy Lee Jones, Nicole Kidman, Jim Carrey.

The emptiest minds always come with the loudest mouths. Such was the case with the film, with only smoke and no fire. Even though the film had some real surprises, which would urge you to twist in your seat, the stretched screen time disappointed. Jim Carrey and Jones were surprisingly good, charming their way through with effortless charm. The aforementioned were the only respite in an otherwise uninspired movie, whose commercialism preceded common logic and needs of the franchise.

7. Gangster Squad (2013)

Star Cast: Emma Stone, Ryan Gosling, Josh Brolin, Sean Penn.

See, Sean Penn again. Well he wasn’t accountable for the blame. The crime genre has seen some of the best cinema ever made. Helmed by pristine legends like Scorsese, and Mann, we have almost seen all possible plots, and their boring renditions. It’s 1949 Los Angeles, the city is run by gangsters and a malicious mobster, Mickey Cohen. Determined to end the corruption, John O’Mara assembles a team of cops, ready to take down the ruthless leader and restore peace to the city. The movie on the whole is stylish and slick, but gets pulled back due to lackluster writing, and underdeveloped characters.

6. Batman and Robin (1997)

Star Cast: George Clooney, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Uma Thurman, Chris O’Donell

A movie that nearly destroyed a career and a franchise. What would have happened if Christopher Nolan wouldn’t have graced the franchise with his divine being. Oh, the nightmare. Coming to the film, the same goes for it as well. Heavily vested in the power of its global stars, the movie never looked like taking off, and plummeted to a sorrowful and miserable death. The underwritten characters and the loop holed screenplay gave its stars no chance to salvage anything. The nearly comical fighting scenes, which is the soul of such movies, failed it with no glimmer of appreciation.

5. Righteous Kill (2008)

Star Cast: Robert De Niuro, Al Pacino.

I have intentionally only mentioned two names in the cast space. Because of names like these can’t save a movie, there isn’t the need of any other evidence that a good cast sin’t enough. The two greatest actors of our generation, who are autonomously capable of shaking the ground and beyond with their powerful acting, fell short of their highly set benchmarks. While the script didn’t give them a lot to work with, the little that was available to them saw them being abnormally wasteful. Later a joint lawsuit by the two against the distributors summed up the story of the film. A cringing start, with apparently no end.

4. Little Fockers (2010)

Star Cast: Robert De Niro, Jessica Biel, Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson, Dustin Hoffman.

Who could have imagined the name of De Niro being even mentioned in an article with the word “worst” in it? Well, it is, not once, not twice, but a staggering three times. But he isn’t the lone individual accountable for the movies’ cinematic loss and commercial win. A feel-good story about a strong patriarch, who has to prove his worht in a battle of wits and dumb tasks, the movie manifests the talent of its cast to illicit some good laughs. Apart from that, there is nothing new or witty about the writing or the cliched climax. Based on affable and popular characters, the movie didn’t do any justice to the original incumbents of the title.

3. New Year’s Eve (2011)

Star Cast: Robert De Niro, Hilary Swank, Halle Berry, Ashton Kutcher, Josh Dumahel.

Another haphazard effort with irresponsible direction and writing. It is reflective of the kind of films that the audience wants at a fell good time like Christmas. Inter-weaving simple plots that seem to connive to make us suffer, comes together as one in the end, which is some respite. The feel-good end and the non-existent middle suffer and carry contrasting responses and attributes. Not much to be said here, apart from ruing a missed opportunity to exploiting a sumptuously exciting and talented cast.

2. Jack and Jill

Star Cast: Adam Sandler, Al Pacino, Johnny Depp, Katie Holmes.

Another bad movie with Adam Sandler at the helm! I don’t know what to write about him. And that is where I will leave him.

1. Armageddon (1998)

Star Cast: Bruce Willis, Ben Affleck, Billy Bob Thornton, Liv Tyler.

The movie has a 6.6 on IMBD solely because of its magnificent special effects. The film was a winner in that regard, with some even calling it pioneering. It even received an Academy nomination for Best Visual Effects. Nothing much went its way. The lousy script, filled with scientifically inaccurate facts, failed what could have been a great film. The star cast did manage to work its magic and made the film the highest grossing one of 1998 worldwide. It is about NASA astronauts, who observe that a large asteroid will hit earth in the next eighteen days and destroy life. They also realise that their hunger for survival solely relies on one man who can save them. And then accordingly acting on it.

DON"T LIKE "EM? 10 Movie Endings you Hate That Are Good AF

2017-07-04T10:31:00.003-07:00

When we sit down to watch a movie, we wait for one thing: the ending. The climax of the movie is the most essential thing for the audiences. Like every relationship needs closure, the symbiotic connection between the audience and the movie also needs one. But often it is the case, that people require a happy ending, where the idyllic status quo is restored after a journey of complete obliteration. At times, they don’t know what they want, but rather focus on what they need. A director’s job, therefore, is to keep a check on their needs, and give them what they actually want. A happy ending at times defeats the script, the excruciating pains the autuers go to, to create a not so happy ending. We decided to list some movies and tell you why the endings, though you hate, actually fit perfectly. Happy reading!

WARNING: SPOILERS AHEAD

10. Flight (2012)

The Ending: With victory in sights, and an exoneration all but confirmed, guilt overcomes Whip Whittaker admits to being inebriated that fateful day, and goes to jail.

Throughout the movie, if there was one thing that Whip tried to convince everyone of, was his innocence. And in reality, he was innocent. The plane crashed, or was prevented from, due to failure in the left engine. It was a mechanical fault. But his besotted state on that day consumed his life’s love. The death of Katrina Marquez took a heavy toll on Whip, who became embroiled in a tumultuous chain of emotional turmoil. With no possible reprieve in sight, a guilt ridden Whip admits to the crime. Two things happened: he went to jail, and his drinking problem subsided. And that last scene, when his son came in to take his interview, he became a man again for him. The respect that he had lost due to alcoholism, was recovered, and he became a father again.

9. Begin Again (2013)

The Ending: Gretta realizes his love for Dan, and wastes no time in locating him and deciding to confess. As she is about to, she sees Dan reuniting with his estranged wife Miriam. Gretta retracts from her plan, and chooses Dan’s happiness over her’s.

‘Begin Again’ was a grossly under rated film. Probably one of the most realistic and enjoyable musicals of recent times (Chazelle look away), it had a perfect ending. Even though Gretta’s love for Dan was genuine, and in fact, because it was, she chose for Dan to be happy, with the one thing he wanted the most: his wife. During the course of the film, we are shown numerous times Dan mentioning his estranged wife to Gretta. Whether it be a photo, an emotional prom story, or a bizarre anecdote, he couldn’t hide his regret and love for Miriam. Therefore, the end, which saw him reunite with Miriam, was a perfect culmination to Dan’s metamorphosis from a careless and irresponsible individual, to a doting father, and a loving husband.

8. Night of the Living Dead (1968)

The Ending: Ben is awakened by the posse’s gunfire outside, and goes to investigate. The posse spot him, and out of fear, and solely fear, put one through his forehead, rendering his body in free fall. He falls besides the original zombie from the cemetery, and duly lit on fire.

Probably the greatest horror movie ever made. The first rendition of the post-apocalypse zombie era, the film got almost all the things right. The only qualms that people have, is about the ending. After braving a literal army of Zombies, and after shooting all the people he loved, Ben finally was safe. But his ironic death at the hands of the very people he saved was the best ending the movie was ever going to get. His life was taken away from him, when he killed all the people he ever cared about. He was reduced to a living corpse, who was dead inside. Therefore, his tragic death in fact liberated him from the cringing environs of life, and reunited him with his posse up in heaven.

7. Looper (2012)

The Ending: Seeing the future Joe about to kill Sara and Seth to reunite with his wife, Joe decides to shoot himself, to save the mother-son duo, and possibly, all future loopers.

‘Looper’ was an eviscerating sci-fi drama. Shades with dark intrinsic human emotions like no other, the film’s end is reflective of the tone set during it. Envisioning the repercussions of future Joe killing Sara and Seth, Joe decides to forlorn his love, life, and happiness for the greater good. While future Joe couldn’t be reunited with his wife, and the film’s protagonist’s unexpected death made the audience indignant, the ending is symbolic of human victory. The triumph of selflessness over greed, and the greater good of the society over the good for an individual, is what Rian Johnson wanted to depict. Well done sir!

6. Up in the Air (2009)

The Ending: Ryan finally realizes his love for Alex, and his abomination for the life he leads, and decides to chose the former. When he knocks on her door to confess, and probably propose, Alex’s marital life is divulged, which leaves Ryan heartbroken. Disappointed, he leaves and returns to his normal, mundane life, accepting he’ll never get love again.

When I ask people about the movie, the common mandate is the scratching of heads. It is unfortunate that more haven’t seen this beautiful film, but for those who have, the ending was the worst part. From the starting, to almost the end, we see a disconnected man, a man insouciant to life, and the people around him. Someone with no friends, estranged family, and an egregious paucity of normal life. As the movie gradually progresses, we see him change into a caring man, who values human intimacy and the emotions of the ones around him. But the one time he isn’t himself, he gets a taste of his own medicine, which is fitting, because you can’t deny he was a mean person.

5. Drive (2011)

The Ending: The driver brings the money to Bernie, and in return buys the safety of Irene and Benicio. Bernie readily agrees, and as he takes he money, he stabs the driver, who in turn fatally stabs Bernie. The driver drives into the night, forever disappearing from Irene and Benecio’s life.

‘Drive’ is undoubtedly Ryan Gosling’s best film. The taciturn and reserved persona that he has, he almost wasn’t required to act. But he did, and did it with effortless ease. Lacking human intimacy, except for his run-ins with the garage owner Shannon, he finds love and warmth in a mother-son duo, who reciprocate. The end, while certainly against the common wants, is a perfect culmination to what we saw of ‘the driver’. Each night, he disappeared into the dark, only to surface the following night and continuing the process. This was his life. He could never have gotten the life he wanted, due to the choices he made regarding the same. If he had gone back to Irene, it was just a matter of time before another Bernie would have come after them. He again chose to sacrifice himself for the safety of the people he loved.

4. No Country for Old Men (2007)

The Ending: Llewellyn is killed by the cartel, disappointing Anton and Sheriff Bell for contrastingly different reasons. Anton intends to keep the promise he made to Llewellyn, and proceeds to kill his wife. After meeting an accident, Anton disappears in thin air, and Bell happily retires.

This was one movie that apparently, and I can’t emphasize apparently enough, apparently had no closure. The end was perceived as ambiguous and uncertain. A tip for you now. Watch the movie closely, and notice what Anton does when he kills someone. The ending features some uncanny genius from the Coen brothers. The scene where Anton comes out of Cate’s house, is given just one hint that confirms he killed her. He kept his promise and the image that permeated through the screen to the audience. Bell’s dream at the end has had different connotations. It was symbolic, to the life he and his father before him had led. His father was a police sheriff, and had experienced the same darkness that comes with the job. Bell signifies, that he showed him the way, to evade that darkness, and come out of it to happiness and warmth.

3. The Departed (2006)

The Ending: William finally confronts Sullivan and succeeds in extorting him. As he goes ahead with the plan, Sullivan’s colleague fatally shoots William, and saves Sullivan, who kills his colleague. With life returning to normal for Sullivan, he is surprised and killed by Dignam, who holds him responsible for Queenan’s death.

The end had almost everyone killed, sans Dignam. It is the best ending I have seen in a movie. I’ll give you reasons why. People didn’t liked it, as it was a bit abrupt, and DiCaprio was killed. He got killed in action. That was inevitable. Nothing could have prevented that. Sullivan’s death on the hands of Dignam was liberating, both for the audience, and Dignam himself, for the former’s nefarious crimes and back-stabbing. He finally got what he deserved, and it was coning for a long time. Queenan’s revenge was extracted, Costello’s gang quarantined, and the city had returned to peace. What more could you ask for ?

2. One Flew Over Cuckoo’s Nest (1975)

The Ending: Randall is held responsible for Billy’s death and sent for the treatment. A lobotomized Randall returns, like a living corpse, to everyone’s dismay. Chief puts him out of his misery, and escapes, as planned.

The end is emblematic of the true love the inmates had for each other. Randall couldn’t have lived with himself after his actions led to Billy killing himself. Chief couldn’t have lived with himself, had he left Randall to live, or rather complete his life, like that. The moment Randall came in, he only wanted to do one thing: get out. Chief finally made that happen for him, and went ahead with the plan he and Randall had envisioned. Even though Randall couldn’t be liberated as a living soul, he was in spirit.

1. La La Land (2016)

The Ending: Mia and Sebastian move different ways to further their careers. Five years later, Mia returns to LA as a movie star, and one fateful night, destiny brings them together once again. Mia is now married with a kid, and when she sees Sebastian, it is clear they still love each other. But they accept they can’t be together, and move on.

The film that stole 2016. ‘La La Land’s unpopular ending saw the two leads accept their destiny. Both started out to further their careers, and make their dreams come true. In the end, they did. Mia became a movie star, Sebastian had his own music club. Isn’t that they wanted in the first place? So why, if they couldn’t be together, spoil a riveting tale where dreams came true? They got what they wanted, and accepted their eternal love for each other. For me, the ending was apt, in the culmination of their hard work, and the sustenance of the essence of their love.

CRAZY: Actors Who Lost Themselves In Their Character

2017-07-04T03:24:00.000-07:00

For a dedicated actor, playing a character isn’t a job. It is his life. He isn’t himself for the duration of the shooting and it is imperative for him to maintain the status quo. With the blossoming of method acting in the industry, actors losing themselves in their characters has become a common notion. Pervading amidst artists through the radiant Marlon Brando since the 1950’s, it has furthered both in intensity, and absurdity. The new wave of thespians take their work with utmost sincerity and seriousness. At times, too serious. Their descent into madness and the bewildering environs of their characters is ambivalently scary and exciting. It is this exhilaration and edge of the things stuff that keeps our faith in the great traditions of acting. Following is the list of actors who almost went crazy while paying a role. Happy reading!

10. Malcom McDowell (‘A Clockwork Orange’)

Kubrick gave full access and liberties to the actor to play with the character. The results were both petrifying and orgasmic. Playing a character, held together by copious amounts of crazy glue, McDowell improvised almost all his scenes. The sheer vagueness of his character’s personality took a toll on his personal life, and almost made the two a facsimile. His bezerk seizures at night forced the actor to start therapy and limit his sanity through medication. From suffering temporary blindness on set, to bearing excruciating pain by sitting up during the scene in the picture, McDowell certainly gave his all for the character.

9. Nicolas Cage (‘Birdy’)

Cage’s weird fetishes for asserting challenging roles make him a treasured commodity. His penchant for playing outlandish and oddball characters has often given us unbelievable stories. One such anecdote comes from the sets of the 1984 war drama, ‘Birdy’. He played Al Cumbato, a disgruntled and disfigured soldier, who through a sequences of flashbacks depicts his traumatic tale in the war. For the scenes in which Al’s face is swathed in bandages, Cage lost 15 pounds and had four of his teeth pulled out for giving a realistic look. And he kept the bandages for a staggering 8 weeks, the duration of filming.

8. Adrien Brody (‘The Pianist’)

He still remains the youngest actor to have won the Oscar of Best Actor. And by the time you end this, you’ll know why. He plays a Jewish pianist, Spizlman, who gets caught up in Hitler’s tirade and “final solution”. Separated from his family, and basically having lost everything in his life, Brody mirrored his character’s situation in his real life. Abdicating his apartment, his car, and his bank accounts. Literally, selling everything! Above that, he also ended a long-distance relationship with his girlfriend, and stayed away from family for three months. The scene you see above, that isn’t acting. *chills down the spine*

7. Johnny Depp (‘Fear and loathing in Las Vegas’)

It still eludes me why people don’t regard this as Depp’s finest work. He is one of the actors who doesn’t need an invitation to blow some pot. This was something that was required for the character, and guess what, he did it! Hunter Thompson’s alter-ego seemed like encapsulated in Depp’s body during the film, and even continues today. Depp was in reality stoned for half the movie, blew off millions of his won money, and even acted as a mule to create the atmosphere to play it in. His mind-numbing efforts certainly paid off, as the film enjoys a cult status now, and showed the world Depp is more than just sex walking on a stick.

6. Christian Bale (‘The Machinist’)

His inclusion in the list was forseable to say the least. You wouldn’t have had to be a rigor to prophecize his inclusion. Going bat-shit crazy for almost all his roles, Bale outdid himself with his performance and emaciated body in ‘The Machinist’. Playing an insomniac-hallucinating machinist Trevor, Bale famished himself and lost about 60 pounds for the film. And if that wasn’t enough, he didn’t sleep for two straight weeks to formally become Trevor. He overdid the transformation by isolating himself from the world for two months. Things like this is why movies are what they are. Truly splendid.

5. Joaquin Phoenix (‘I’m Still here’)

He is as crazy as they come. His repertoire and stunning body of work include one of the greatest character enhancements and transformations in Freddie Quell. He charaded the world and hoaxed them into believing he had given up acting and had become a pop star. The mockumentary, which eventually turned out to be unplanned and a faux, ‘I’m Still Here’ turned the screw on crazy, and sent the world into bewilderment. Playing the part of a disheveled and downward-spiraling actor completely out of control. The actor took the character into the public sphere and the director stuck to the story that he was simply documenting Phoenix’s new career path into rapping. it included making an appearance on David Letterman and even confusing him.

4. Jared Leto (‘Suicide Squad’)

Simply put, this was the worst Joker rendition on screen, but through no fault of the actor, who reveled in the little time he got. The under-used Joker character became a sham in the towering shadows of his successors. But the way Leto prepared for the part was an apotheosis of dedication. He stayed in character for the duration of the production, and sent a dead rat to Margot Robbie. The rest of the cast wasn’t spared, to who he sent dead pigs, among other crazy shit. Smith reveals he is yet to meet Leto, and the only exchange of words happened between ‘Action!’ and ‘Cut!’. Wow. Only if he was used correctly.

3. Shia LeBouf (‘Fury’)

LeBouf is a lot like Arvind Kejriwal. If not for their antics and public gimmicks, the two would have been at the acmes of their respective professions. An inherently gifted actor, LeBouf is grossly over talented, and underly devoid of common sense. His visceral yet pragmatic performances have always managed to catch our eyes, and ‘Fury’ was no different. I believe it is better you hear it from him. His official statement will seem crazy, because it is.

“David (Ayer, director) told us right from the gate: ‘I need you to give me everything.’ So the day after I got the job, I joined the US National Guard. I was baptised – accepted Christ in my heart – tattooed my surrender and became a chaplain’s assistant to Captain Yates for the 41st Infantry. I spent a month living on a forward operating base. Then I linked up with my cast and went to Fort Irwin. I pulled my tooth out, knifed my face up and spent days watching horses die. I didn’t bathe for four months.”

2. Heath Ledger (‘The Dark Knight’)

It was a toss up between him and the other guy, and after the announcement today, it was always going to be the latter. Ledger became the first actor to have won the Oscar posthumously. He was Joker for the entire duration of filming, and perhaps accented into heaven in the same character. Secluding himself in a hotel room for six months, doing his own make-up and hair, and being the Joker, he left no stone unturned. He improvised many scenes, the most famous being the slow-clapping in the jail, which made the actors around him petrified of him. He asked Bale to punch him with full force in the interrogation scene to get a realistic sense of the Joker’s position. Oh, how the world misses one of the greatest actors of our generation.

1. Daniel Day Lewis (Basically every movie)

I literally couldn’t hold back tears when I heard Day Lewis was retiring. It has left a void that can never be filled. His cinematic genius and immense dedication to his roles makes him the greatest actor living. If I start listing the things he has done for almost all the roles he portrayed, the article will seem like a novel. Do read his Wikipedia page. You’ll be stunned. Broken nose, broken ribs, broken legs, deformed spine. What not. The upcoming ‘Phantom Threads’ will be the last one featuring him in a lead role. Into the breach once more my dear friends!

The Greatest Oscar-winning Performances No One Talks About

2017-07-03T23:29:00.004-07:00

Winning an Oscar is indubitably the single greatest honor in the life of an artist. The hours of sweat, blood, and perseverance when culminate into the golden trophy, it’s an orgasmic experience. There are some winners, who due to their sheer stardom, or their distinctive Oscar speech are firmly ensconced in our conscience. But then there are those, whose performances get swept under the carpet and aren’t celebrated. I still remember Cuba Gooding winning the Oscar for ‘Jerry Maguire’. The reason for the same though, isn’t his acting performance, but rather his eccentric acceptance speech, which overcame the constellation of stars in the auditorium with laughter. Leonardo DiCaprio, for instance, should have won an Oscar way-back in his career. But I still remember that he won for a rather subdued performance, well below the standards he has set.

It is therefore essential we remember winners whose performance in the movie was so good, that we missed them. So here’s a list of the greatest Oscar-winning performances no one talks about.

15. Fredrick March, ‘Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde’

It still eludes me as to why Fredrick March isn’t considered as a contemporary great. A distinguished stage actor, March was the recipeitn of two Academy and Tony awards. he was honored with the first of the former for his dual performance in the 1939 film ‘Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde’. Playing both the titular characters, March was required to play two contrasting characters, both in looks and nature. Dr Jekyll, a kind and adroit doctor in England, successfully manages to manifest a drug that brings out the evil in him, thus metamorphosing him into Mr Hyde, a menacing and primitive looking monster. Both his incantations were soul-moving in their respective ways. march managed to truly get under the skin, rather skins, of his character, and deliver a memorable performance, that unfortunately no one talks about.

14. Emma Thompson, ‘Howards End’

Emma Thompson was undoubtedly one of the most charismatic and charming actresses of her time. Her global status as a star and an able actor was furthered when she won the Oscar for Best Actress in the film ‘Howards End’. She plays a conflicted wife of a businessman, whom she marries in a moment of passion. She becomes entangled in the middle, between the two families’ feud and troubled relationship. She plays the character of Helen Schlegel with utmost sincerity, and a softening charm, which sustains through out the film. The ease with which she changes emotions and sways a feeling of transient envy and respect. Her body language is accepting, and portrays a sense of openness and warmth. So sad we don’t talk about it anymore.

13. Brenda Fricker, ‘My Left Foot’

As soon as you hear ‘My left Foot’, you are compelled to detract all your energies towards Daniel Day-Lewis. Such was the complexity and intricacy, and more over the significance, of his performance, that everything else about the movie is overlooked. Brenda Fricker, who plays the strong and determined mother, facing criticisms and becoming the society’s target of mockery and ridicule. Her motherly love for her disabled child is a true testament of the unconditional love that mothers have around the world for their children. The solid display of playing second foil to the genius of Day-Lewis, and reacting ever so emotionally to her surroundings, earned her a well deserved award.

12. Henry Fonda, ‘On Golden Pond’

I am still of the opinion that he deserved one for ’12 Angry Men’. But my wish came true a few years later, when he won the coveted trophy for ‘On Golden Pond’. An unrecognizable Fonda played the role of Norman Thayer Jr, a cantankerous retiree, who spends summers with his conciliatory wife on the idyllic shores of Golden Pond. Their estranged daughter, Chelsea, visits with her fiance and son Billy, on her way to Europe. leaving behind Billy for her parents to look after, a guilt-ridden Chelsea goes back to spend time with her ailing father before it is too late. Fonda’s mature performance won him the Academy Award, one which we all are proud of.

11. James Cagney, ‘Yankee Doodle Dandy’

Probably one of the greatest actors to have ever lived, Cagney was hugely underrated. A syncretism of acting prowess and the superstar charisma, Cagney delivered some great performances in his career. His performance in ‘Yankee Doodle Dandy’ won him the Oscar for Best Actor. Playing real life George M Cohan, the musical saw him sing, dance, and care like no one was watching. The nuanced idiosyncrasies interwoven with deft dexterity in his lung bursting monologues were truly the life of one of the greatest musicals ever made, than no one sadly talks about.

10. Geena Davis, ‘Accidental Tourist’

One of the most popular actresses of all time, Davis was an equally capable actress. Her role as the empathizing hospital employee Muriel Pritchett won her the Academy Award in 1988. The ever so talented diva handled the role with much care, and the effortless lack of it, in a role that required her to bare it all. The raw, visceral emotions illicit emotional responses and lung-bursting laughter. A truly memorable performance.

9. Claudette Colbert, ‘It Happened One Night’

I really am surprised to find this film’s existential existence. For me, one of the greatest films ever made, it was an eviscerating romance drama that touched hearts and summoned happiness. It naturally became the first movie to win all the major five Academy Awards, and set the BO ringing like no other film could. Claudette Colbert bagged one of those awards, for her carefree and glamorous performance as Ellen Andrews, a spoiled heiress of millions. Even though she wasn’t the first choice to play Ellen, she made the character iconic with effortless charm and a unfound exuberance. One for the ages.

8. Geoffrey Rush, ‘Shine’

Most commonly recognized as Captain Barbosa, Rush is so much more than that. In a career spanning more than almost five decades, his alluring body of work includes films of all genres, and roles of all kinds. His emotional range makes him distinctive, and one of a kind. His best work for me still remains in ‘The King’s Speech’, where he played a speech therapist, but his work in ‘Shine’ was no lesser in significance. With a manic mode of speech, and wearing his heart on the sleeve, Rush made the character of David his own working self. The indistinguishable baritone and penetrating gaze, make the character of David so much more than a failure in life.

7. Jeff Bridges, ‘Crazy Heart’

It is a surprise to me that this guy hasn’t won more. Widely recognized for his roles in ‘The Big Lebowski’, ‘True Grit’, and ‘Hell or High Water’, Bridges slipped one under the radar with ‘Crazy Heart’. Proving his musical prowess in wielding a guitar, Bridges played a worn-out artist, who rides across the country to barely make a living for himself. One fateful night, he falls in love with a reporter, who duly reciprocates. The initial love and sweetness is wiped away due to his problems with alcohol. Determined to change his dilapidated and soul-less life, Blake composes a medley that does, ‘Crazy Heart’.

6. Patricia Arquette , ‘Boyhood’

‘Boyhood’ is a film that changed the way people looked at kids. Arquette’s strong portrayal of an ailing mother, who yearns for love and time with them, was an emotionally incarcerating display of her acting prowess. Shouldering the movie her capable performance, her acceptance speech resonates in the conscience of everyone a witness to it. There was no denying in her capability to play a character role, and any doubts about it certainly vanished with her performance. She went so deep in the skin of her character, that she broke down and cried on set after that scene with her and Hawke. The emotional ordeal that she went through personally, to make the role more authentic certainly deserves attention.

5. Joanne Woodward, ‘Three faces of Eve’

I just did an article about her performance in the movie. And this won’t be much different. Playing a person suffering from multiple personality disorder, Woodward hit all the right spots in terms of authenticity. Eve Black, Eve White, and Jane made for a stunning watch and also became one of the first actresses to portray MPD. Woodward was an obscure commodity in the industry. Therefore, her strong and compelling performance took every one by surprise. I think this was the first instant in cinematic history, that a female actress followed method acting, and used her real life experiences to make it real. Her range simply stupefies, and her character flow makes us stand up and take notice.

4. Nicole Kidman, ‘The Hours’

Not usually associated with dramatic roles, Kidman pinged a surprised and pulled off a Houdini. She also took the Academy award home for her performance in ‘The Hours’. Almost unrecognizable in her character, Kidman, playing a woman in 1920s England, who is struggling with depression and mental illness while trying to write her novel, stole the show amonsgt her esteemed compatriots, Meryl Streep and Julianne Moore. Each word that came forth from her made us cringe and struggle. There’s a difference between doing nothing, and doing everything and making it seem like doing nothing. Kidman gave us a striking comparison, and elucidated the difference.

3. Reese Witherspoon, ‘Walk the Line’

Witherspoon went brunette in the movie, and it worked like a charm for her. Playing as real life character, her singing prowess came to the fore and stole the show. Her change of accent and her painstaking endeavors to do so came to fruition, as the performance landed her an Academy Award and global acclaim. Maintaining a taut and resilient approach ti life, much like her real life version, the reel life version almost seemed real. Right from dying her hair brown, to wearing buttoned down shirts and muted colors post marriage, Witherspoon didn’t leave anything to chance. Her meticulous character study of June Carter and her struggles with life on screen almost made us cry. Watch for yourself.

2. Adrien Brody, ‘The Pianist’

Playing a role in a Holocaust movie is intrinsically difficult. Re-living the horrors of the most atrocious and brutal acts of mankind against mankind certainly can be a daunting task. Brody showed no signs of intimidation, and gave a strong and moving performance as Wladyslaw Szpilman, a talented pianist, whose set of skills falls blatantly out of alignment with the needs of the war. Beautifully shot by Polanksi, the movie is a chilling account of the horrors of the war, and its effects on the people. Separated from his family, Szpilman’s journey towards normalcy and meeting his family again compel him to keep moving forward, and survive in the most hopeless of circumstances. He became the youngest male actor to win the Academy Award for best Actor in a Leading role, and his scandalous smooch with Halle Berry is sadly remembered more than his performance.

1. Gregory Peck, ‘To Kill A Mockingbird’

One of the greatest films ever made, the film featured a cinematic performance that will live on for ages in our memories. Gregory Peck’s calm and adroit portrayal of Atticus Finch, a lawyer who fights for a black man is a grossly racist and persecuted America, is absolutely flaw less. His wary demeanor, his taciturn nature, and his husky baritone are a pleasant replica of our images of Finch after reading the novel. He shines, and hustles the movie into a must-watch haven. The Academy Award was for a given, and his acceptance brought out the loudest cheer from the people watching, testifying to his stunning portrayal.

KEEP IT IN YOUR PANTS: 10 Movies Where Actors Had Sex On-Screen

2017-07-03T08:56:00.001-07:00

Sex is a very private thing for a person. Well, is it? The answer obviously is yes, but Hollywood’s juxtaposed fetishes unflinchingly changes the answer. Even though, for the actual action to transpire, there has to be an imminent requirement of the script, directors have often used it as their conduit to attract crowds. Because who doesn’t like porn, right? The great Italian stallion, Bernardo Bertolucci, is perhaps the most controversial and reverential figure in modern film-making. His bold and brazen approach have often attracted scathing criticism, and the highest praise. Creating a path for others to tread on, Bertolucci’s flawless implications of sex and its significance have never failed to mesmerize. As a sort of homage to the great man, we decided to compile a list of movies where the actors had real sex on-screen. Happy reading!

10. Dogtooth (2009)

Delving deep into the controversial issue of incest, ‘Dogtooth’ is an eviscerating presentation of a father’s blinding love for his daughters, that ultimately goes too far and proves to be their undoing. The manipulative and controlling father locks away his three adolescent children in the sprawling confines of the compounding, trapping them in their perpetual childhood. Sucked out of life’s zeal and onto the threshold of insolvency, the older sister connives a plan to escape. Will they finally be free? Watch for yourself.

9. 9 Songs (2004)

A passion for live music unites two longing souls to embark on a journey of simulated intercourse and oral sex. Sounds weird right? Well, because it purely is. Coming from the land of vestigial traditions and the Royal Queen, ‘9 Songs’ is an unrequired movie. The movie flows at a glacial pace, and even the racy intimacy (and much more) cannot salvage an uninspiring movie. Even though the visceral representation of the physical expression of love between the leads is refreshing and distinctive, it isn’t enough to cease the movie’s free fall to disappointment.

8. The Center of the World (2001)

Before Peter Saarsgaard shot to fame with roles in ‘Jarhead’ and ‘An Education’, he lit up the screen in Wayne Wang’s candid documentation of mutual desires coming together. Prima facie a sexual arrangement between a millionaire, and his hired escort for three wild days of partying and sex, it emotionally disintegrates into a something real for the two leads. The film is a haranguing reality check of what conspires when our sexual fetishes and longing pleasure, collides with the messy, eccentric reality of human emotions. Well acted, and uninspiringly thought, the movie failed to become so much more than what it became.

7. Love (2015)

This is the only photo I could find of the three protagonists wearing clothes. Gasper Noe’s erotic 3D venture follows the lives of three eligible bachelors with a perennial penchant for adventures. The titillating drama opens up with a racy and sensual threesome amongst a pair of experienced ex-lovers, Murphy and Electra, and a fledgling novice exchange student from Denmark, Omi. The casual event of pleasure and sex quickly becomes problematic, as Murphy and Omi have sex behind Electra’s back, and the former mistakenly impregnates the latter. The two get married, and Electra absconds into wilderness, far away from her life. Her worried mother reignites and presents to us in a non-liner sequences of flashbacks the relationship between Murphy and Electra.

6. Lie With Me (2005)

This isn’t a movie. It is basically porn. The meeting of two promiscuous lovers, burning with animalistic sexual energy, become insatiable to each other and engage in a casual, yet intense carnal relationship. The sexual fling rapidly escalates into a cluttered and clustered life for Leila, as David becomes an ever growing presence, and she herself struggling with her crippling fear of emotional intimacy.

5. The Brown Bunny (2003)

The infamy that environed the lead actress of the movie was baffling. An A-list star at the time, Chloe Sevigny had her imminent acting career ruined because of some really controversial scenes in the movie ‘The Brown Bunny’. An uncensored and undiluted scene of Chloe performing fellatio on Vincent Gallo, the writer, producer, and director of the movie, who also starred in it, sent shockwaves through the industry. What made the issue more disturbing, was Gallo’s open confession of his obsession with Chloe, and his subsequent statement that he wouldn’t have done the movie if Chloe wouldn’t have been a part of it.

4. The Dreamers (2003)

Bertolucci’s first film on the list is a mesmerizing declaration of love for cinema. Set in the student riots of 1970’s in France, it follows a triumvirate of cinemaholics through the tensed environment, and their subsequent bonding. Matthew, an exchange student from the US, forms an acquaintance with Isabelle, and her brother Theo. Invited for an elongated stay by the brother-sister duo, one fateful night, Matthew stumbles upon them sleeping together naked. The following events, prodigally interwoven and moved forward through re-enactments of classic movie scenes, present a harrowing glimpse into their twisted conscience. The scene, when Matthew and Isabelle indulge in intercourse as a part of a dare by Theo, who watches on with intrigue, is truly exhilarating.

3. Nymphomaniac (2013)

Lars von Trier furthered his vague and alluring body of work with this European art-film. And heavens turned upside down, when he signed Shia LaBeouf as his eccentric star. The two-part, five-hour long film is a vivid exploration of self-discovery, capitalistic greed, and the addicted nymphomaniacs. The embellished venture of the film’s interchanging leads into uncharted territory of sex addiction and subsequent finding of love is a treat to watch.

2. Little Ashes (2008)

I really don’t understand why the movie got such negative responses. Two brilliant actors, with equally magnificent performances, a fearless director, and an unconventional plot. I think so these should have been enough to appreciate the movie. But what can we say about human nature, always wanting more. After ‘Brokeback Mountain’, this film was another benchmark in the celebration of an ostracized cisgender folk, who deserve attention and respect from their peers. But instead the movie was normalized and subsequently failed at the box office, and in people’s hearts. Not me though!

1. Last Tango in Paris (1972)

And we finish the list with another Bertolucci masterpiece. A tale of lust, desire, and sexual fetishes between an 18-tear old girl, and a recently widowed man, almost thrice her age, ‘Last Tango in Paris’ is but so much more. The film is a coherent and tangible feature, which proves that age is a bourgeois construct, and love has no boundaries. Starring the exquisite Marlon Brando and a debuting Maria Schneider, the film has received varied responses from the film fraternity. While many dubbed it as a masterpiece and breath-taking, the others criticized it for its gruesome portrayal of sexual violence and emotional turmoil. Allegations of manipulation on the Italian stallion have since then been confirmed by Maria Schneider, also stating that the experience was, though humiliating and downgrading for her, acted as a great learning curve in her career.

RIGHT NOW: 10 Female Superheroes Who Need To Get Their Movies ASAP

2017-07-03T00:45:00.000-07:00

It is no secret. Hollywood is a heavily male-dominated. It truly is. Denying it won’t change the status quo. It is time for action. We have seen innumerable incarnations of the DC and Marvel comic books on screen. Almost all of them — ‘Wonder Woman’ being an exception — have focused on the lead male characters. Hell, the male superheroes have gotten their individual films as well. Some have even gotten three (Read: Iron Man). It is high time the women characters get their due and have a separate film for them made as well. They need to come out of the towering shadows of their male counterparts and cast the world under their spell. We decided to propose a list to the studios of female superheroes who need to get their own movie. Happy reading!

10. Negasonic Teenage Warhead

Brianna Hilderbrand sure turned heads when she played a brief yet polarizing part of the character in ‘Deadpool’. While Ryan Reynolds took all the laurels and the limelight, Warhead gave us plenty of moments to have a laugh and see her in a more expanded role. The teen’s insouciant attitude, her taciturn-cum-sarcastic nature, and her incredible bursts of atomic impulses surely will make for a satisfying watch. Seeing her deal with challenges like daily life and high school (before she joined the X-Men school) would be insanely fun. Hope people are listening!

9. Jean Grey

The moment it was announced that the beloved Sophie Turner would be playing the character, we wanted an individual film for her. Even though Jean is long gone and dead in the cinematic universe, ‘X-Men : Apocalypse’ saw her revival and had scope for much more. The character, strikingly similar to Sasna Stark, was one of the brighter spots in an otherwise dull movie. She compared Jean to Sansa and described being an outcast in the human world, who struggles with her power and gift, the same way Sansa, who wanted to live a normal life, felt. It would be really exciting to see her star in the main role in her own movie.

8. Mystique

Who better to start the revolution than Jennifer Lawrence? The highest paid actress in the world, she has been a vociferous supporter of equality in the industry regarding the pay, respect, and the attention male stars get. The strong-headed and adroit female is emblematic of her character of Mystique in the X-Men series. A true reflection of the actress who plays her, Mystique, a mutant shapeshifter, who can mimic the appearance and voice of any person with exquisite precision. The character has always been an important cog for the story to move forward, and will remain to be in the upcoming films. She deserves her won film. Period.

7. Elektra

We have seen almost no portrayals of Elektra in movies, apart from a brief part played by Garner in the horrible ‘Daredevil’. While the movie sunk and bombed pretty badly, Garner did receive considerable attention for her portrayal. A bladed sai-wielding assassin, the femme fatale is also book smart, having s troubled past, which accounts for her intrinsic dark nature. The character in the comics is tragically assaulted and repeated by her father when aged 5, but still continued to be close with him, living in denial. The character story will make for an inspirational watch, also becoming a role model for young girls around the world.

6. Super Girl

If there can be a Super-Man, why not a Super-Girl? Well, the fact is, she is already there. The two seasons old TV show is a fan favorite, and has a staggering rating of 97% on Rotten Tomatoes. Melissa Beniost’s portrayal has garnered universal acclaim and love from fans, who have often urged DC Comics to make a film about her. Young, happening, and insanely powerful, the character can definitely command and own an individual movie. The story, tracking her origins and the life after, can have thrilling sub-plots, owing to her featuring heavily in the comics. Let us wait and pray for her to get a movie.

5. X-23

To speak my truth, I thought she was better than Jackman in the film. The moment those men were thrown out of the building, and the camera zoomed in on Logan, we all knew what was going to happen. With Jackman no longer portraying Wolverine, I don’t think so the character will come back, in any universe, and therefore it is imperative for X-23 to carry his legacy forward. Even though Dafne Keen did an amazing job in the movie, it is unrealistic picturing her in her own movie. But, with some characters interspersed with hers, and the unison of her child gang, a movie can come to life, and we desperately hope it does.

4. Ms Marvel

Kamala Khan is a teenager living in the world of Marvel Comics. Captain Marvel (Carol Danvers) is her idol, she wan’t to be just like her. So, when Kamala gets her own powers, she naturally adopts the name Ms. Marvel as an homage to Carol Danvers former role. There is already a Captain Marvel movie with Brie Larson in the works. It would be a cool if Marvel also introduces a Ms. Marvel character. Considering the fact that she is a Muslim, it would send a strong signal of diversity and inclusiveness, if Marvel makes a movie on her.

3. Scarlett Witch

Olsen made her first appearance as the misconstrued red witch in ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’. While the recurring star cast again stole the highlights, Scarlet Witch certainly cast a spell on us with her charm and grandiose powers. The way the spectrum of her character changed through the film, points to only one thing: exploitation. In the positive connotations, the studio is pretty serious of expanding her character’s role and repertoire, with Olsen also making an appearance on Graham Norton, with some other cast members. The innate goodness, the obliteration-powerful powers, and stunningly good looks ensure the Witch is one of the most exciting prospects for marvel to capitalize upon.

2. Harley Quinn

If there was one thing right with ‘Suicide Squad;, it was Harley Quinn. The doctor-turned-criminal formed a prominent part of the aforementioned, and was pivotal in bringing down the Enchantress in the climax. Deviously twisted, with an appealing sense of humor, Robbie ticked all the boxes playing the character, With her status as a superstar, and Quinn’s as the most dangerous femme fatale in comic universe, the fourth of July can definitely come twice when, and if, they unite.

1. Black Widow

Who else you thought would top the list? The prima donna of female characters, Agent Natasha Romanoff is the sumptuous and sly operator every organization needs. Blessed with pristine looks and the greatest sex appeal in the world, Scarlett Johansson is as much the character as Trump is a douchebag. Having played the character since its inception, the stunning actress has been a highlight of Marvel movies she has featured in. Providning the required “Women’s Touch”, the balck widow has always ensured the safety of others, and the completion of her mission. Marvel, we need her!!

My 12 Favorite Detective Shows That I Want You To Watch

2017-07-03T00:24:00.000-07:00

Detective shows have an essence of their own. People often associate the word with top-bawl fedoras and long overcoats, with the collar turned outward. The definition has metamorphosed over the years and has transitioned into slick, modern and cutting-edge individuals, with technology being the cornerstone of their profession. While the element of suspense has managed to sustain, the way it is built and furthered has changed. As we all know, TV caters to the most diverse spectrum of people, which includes the masses. We decided to compile a list containing some of the best detective TV shows, which you must see. Happy reading!

12. The Blacklist

A wanted fugitive mysteriously surrenders himself to the FBI and offers to help them in capturing deadly criminals. His sole condition is that he will work only with the new recruit, Elizabeth Keen. Featuring the charismatic and powerful James Spader as the lead, the show has garnered critical acclaim since its inception in 2013. The show has continuously received high ratings from key demographics, indicating its quality and appeal to the masses. The show has received numerous nominations and awards, with the performance of the leads and the stunt co-ordination getting special praise.

11. Bosch

Titus Welliver has been an ever present personality in both TV shows and movies. He has always been confined to supporting roles, and usually dwells in the shadows of the main cast. He finally got his breakthrough, starring in ‘Bosch’ as the titular character. The plot revolves around Harry Bosch, a detective working with the Los Angeles Police Department, who is accused of murdering a serial killer. At the same time, he is also involved in a murder investigation. Did he really murder someone, or is the victim the perpetrator? Watching the show will quench your inquisitive thirst and leave you exasperated at the end.

10. The Bridge

The show was well received throughout its run, garnering universal critical acclaim. The plot takes place on the U.S. and Mexican border where a murdered body on a bridge between El Pasoand Juarez(the Bridge of the Americas) bring together El Paso detective Sonya Cross (Kruger) who is mentored by Hank Wade (Levine) and Chihuahua State police detective Marco Ruiz (Bichir). The story parallels the investigation by El Paso Times reporters Daniel Frye (Lillard) and Adriana Mendez (Rios). A seductive crime drama, ‘The Bridge’ draws viewers in with culturally conscious themes that combine intelligent mystery and spellbinding drama. The vast plains of El Paso make for a delirious setting, amidst the burgeoning crimes of passion and drugs.

9. Longmire

Based on the Walt Longmire mystery novels by best-selling author Craig Johnson, this contemporary crime drama stars Australian actor Robert Taylor in the title role, the charismatic and dedicated sheriff of Absaroka County, Wyo. Longmire patrols the county with a brave face and sense of humor, but deep inside he hides the pain of his wife’s recent death. With the urging of his daughter, Cady, and the help of Vic, a new female deputy, Longmire gains a new appreciation of his job and decides to run for re-election. He’s committed to putting his life back together, one piece at a time, and he often calls on best friend and confidant Henry Standing Bear for support. The show is one my personal favorite, and comes highly recommended.

8. Wallander

The Swedish version is probably one of the best examples of dark humor and sinister crimes. It involves Kurt Wallander, a simpleton, kind-hearted, yet prodigal and brilliant, detective, who struggles to deal with the rising wave of crime in the backwaters of Southern Sweden. The visceral portrayal of the dwindling suburbs, and the gory crimes that are carried out, is a testament to a true documentary filmmaker. It feels real in terms of the way things are done and contemplated. An obscure show that isn’t anymore! Thank me later.

7. Endeavor

Good old fashioned crime solving, and the pioneering role of the CID (not the Indian one *sigh*) is an absolute treat to watch. I don’t know, there’s something about the city, and especially the lead character, Endeavor Morse, which draws me toward mimicking his idiosyncrasies and deft nuances. The extra-ordinary personality traits that divulge and unravel in an exhilarating fashion, are both intriguing, and ambivalently petrifying. The show’s unique style of presenting itself in series’ is a testimony to the great vestigial traditions Britain has had in solving crimes and execution and deliverance of justice. A remarkable show that deserves your time.

6. Death in Paradise

As the title subtly hints towards, the show is about a death. In the carrebian islands, or paradise. Therefore, death in paradise. Jokes apart, the show is extremely funny. Dealing with the gloomy subject that is death, it manages to create and atmosphere of peace and salubrity, with almost never feeling like a crime series. When it does feel like a crime series, the show is breath-taking, with twists that M Shyamlan would be proud and envious of. This sudden and spontaneous injection of suspense and crime is exorbitantly flavored and panned out.

5. Broadchurch

The killing of a young boy in a nondescript coastal town generates sharp media attention. The presence of investigators threatens to negatively impact the peace of the town and unveil its mysteries. The two souls of the show breathe life and zeal into an already satisfying and tormenting ride. Emotionally visceral with a soul-shaking score, the show is a winner all the way through. Literally. The show has been a perennial presence amidst the juxtaposed and pretentious awards circuit, often managing to come out on top and stand out. Almost everything, everything, is impeccably flawless and is an exulting experience.

4. True Detective

I am strictly mentioning the first season that starred Matthew McCaughney and Woody Harrison. The plot focuses on an ongoing investigation in a series of murders dating back to the time of the two main characters’ service. The story is presented to us in a syncretism of flashbacks and current interviews. The OUTSTANDING performance of the leads, coupled with the intriguing plot made the series a fan’s favorite, while also appeasing critics with its authenticity and realism. The series’ unwavering adherence to the deconstruction of human psyche and exploring different shades of the characters made it special. The leads were inundated with awards and nominations. The following season couldn’t match up the first, and naturally the ratings went down.

3. Homeland

‘Homeland’ became a national phenomenon when it first released. The pioneering action sequences and unprecedented depth in research caught everyone’s eyes and made it the most popular show around. It revolves around CIA operative Carrie Mathison, who is on the lookout for an American prisoner ,who may have joined forces with Al-Qaeda. Released from hostage after eight years, Marine Nicholas Brody becomes her suspect. The premise of the first season has obviously changed and developed. The outstanding work from the cast, especially that of Mandy Patinkin, has won the shows numerous accolades, also winning for various other aspects, including the Emmy for the best series.

2. Twin Peaks

O Captain! My Captain! Walt Whitman’s famous eulogy, paying homage to the great Abraham Lincoln falls fittingly for David Lynch as well. An adroit operator of the crime genre, Lynch’s work has always dazzled, and left us scratching our heads. A crime drama mixed with healthy doses of the surreal, ‘Twin Peaks’ is about FBI Agent Dale Cooper, who travels to the small logging town of Twin Peaks to solve the murder of seemingly innocent high schooler Laura Palmer. Almost nothing is as it seems, however, and the show’s sometimes eerie visuals, oddball characters and wild dream sequences drive the point home. The master raconteur once again shows his prowess at reducing us to little smithereens with his eviscerating style. The word is that the reboot that the show got this year is equally good. Hail, Lynch!

1. Sherlock

I certainly couldn’t let the last episode of the much-loved series affect its status as the greatest detective series of all time. Whatever people say about it, ‘Sherlock’ will truly live on to remain a trend setting TV series, that redefined the genre. While much of the limelight is obviously stolen by the leads Cumberbatch and Freeman, Mark Gatiss, the creator of the show, who also plays Mycroft, deserves if not less, then equal amount of credit. His avant-garde techniques and innovative way of letting us glimpse the world through Sherlock’s prodigal mind were truly inexplicably mesmerizing. Simply, the best!

12 Greatest Portrayals of Supervillains by Actors

2017-07-03T00:03:00.000-07:00

If I ask you the difference between a villain and a supervillain, you would probably answer me with a shrug and say: “The word super?” And then I would, being condescending and in my hubris, reply with a smile and say: “Everything.” There is a fundamental difference between the two. Playing a supervillain requires an individual to be the most repulsive, and the least likable, he can be. People often purport that making someone laugh is the toughest task in the world. Well, I say the task of making people absolutely loathe you from their guts is unmatchable.

Another advantage that the production houses of ten have when they have a “supervillain”, is the fact that they can make their hero a “superhero”, and give him unbridled powers. The camaraderie and repartee between the two is paramount, and Hollywood has managed to give us exactly that over the years. We at The Cinemaholic decided to reminisce some of the most glorious and petrifying portrayals of supervillians by actors. Pay heed to the fact that these aren’t the most powerful supervillains, but the best portrayals of them. Happy reading!

12. Terence Stamp, “General Zod”

The 1978 ‘Superman’ was a ground-breaking film in a lot of aspects. Pioneering use of technology and special effects, coupled with one of the very first portrayals of a superhero, makes the film an influential and significant film. While Brando and Reeve stole the headlines for providing deft touches to their characters, Terence Stamp absolutely rocked in his role of General Zod, the evil leader of the three Kryptonian criminals who swears vengeance against Jor-El when he is sentenced to the Phantom Zone. Right from his appearance, to his harried and authoritative dialogue delivery, everything was equally perfect and spine-chilling. In what was the first rendition of the deleterious comic character, Stamp reveled and set high benchmarks for others who followed in his footsteps.

11. Jesse Eisenberg/Gene Hackman, “Lex Luthor”

I love the two actors and performances so much, that I apologize for mentioning them both. Another one of DC’s iconic supervillains, Luthor is as intelligent, and perversely twisted as they come. An eccentric young businessman and hereditary CEO of LexCorp, who is obsessed with defeating Superman, Luthor has no boundaries of stopping to achieve his goals. He is a narcissist of the first order but complicated in that way as well in that he is terribly troubled and competitive and vengeful. He looks at Superman not as somebody to destroy but as genuine threat to humanity. The noble intentions, when seen from his perspective, fail to illicit non-supportive stance, and certainly gives us food for thought. But because of the fact that his primary assumption is wrong in the first place, empathy and sympathy are as far from his, as Kanyakumari is from Kashmir, Point Barrow is from Rose Atoll, or Donald Trump is from being capable enough to be called a human, let alone the President.

10. William Dafoe, “Green Goblin”

When the first Spiderman movie came out, I was still a kid. And even the sight of the devilish green monster sent ripples down my body, and rendered my inanimate. While a lot of it was due to his abrasive and provocative outfit and “gadgets”, a substantial part was due to Dafoe’s brilliance. Not your conventional looking six-pack Joe, his non-generic face, and the harrowing calm persona in chaotic circumstances was breath-taking. The immoral laughs and a relentless pursuit of lending perfection to the role culminated in us getting an iconic supervillain, and a promising career for a talented actor.

9. Ed Skrien, “Ajax”

Simply put, ‘Deadpool’ was all about Ryan Reynolds portrayal of the notorious and sarcastic superhero. And oh, Dopinder. But it was someone else who stood out and earned out respects: Ajax. An artificially-mutated member of the program that creates Deadpool, he feels no pain and has enhanced strength, that gives him super-human powers, and thus the supervillain tag. What was really admirable and venerable in his portrayal was the actor’s dedication to make the experience as authentic as possible. He reportedly performed about 80% of his own stunts, and went under gruesome and tormenting regimes of workouts for well over six months before shooting. His chiseled look and petrifying eyes, surely made the sword-wielding maniac avatar one to remember.

8. Liam Neeson, “Ra’s al Ghul’

The first installment of Nolan’s Dark Knight trilogy absolutely pales in comparison to its other celebrated successors. Even though by no means any lesser of the film, the other two benefited from their mercurial director’s meteoric rise to fame. The 2005 film featured some really good performances, one of the clear stand-outs being Neeson’s turn as the legendary character of the mountain folklore. The ignominious leader of the League of Shadows, Ghul is noble in intentions, but pursues them in a draconian manner. His only purpose in life is to heal the world, but the way in which he intends to achieve the same conflicts the way Batman wanted to. Neeson is commonly cast as a mentor, so the revelation that his character was the main villain was intended to shock viewers. And so did his performance.

7. James Spader, “Ultron”

One of the most powerful villains in the Marvel cinematic universe, his turn in the latest Avengers installments stunned one and all. All ‘The Office’ fans were sent into a frenzy, when it was announced that Spader, our very own charismatic and enigmatic Robert California, was going to voice the ultra-tech supervillain. And he certainly didn’t disappoint. Spader has a way he talks and processes things. That calmness and confidence exuded into his portrayal of Ultron, a God-like AI, who desires to pacify the Earth by eradicating humanity. Director Joss Whedon stated that Spader was his “first and only choice” for the role, because of his “hypnotic voice that can be eerily calm and compelling” while also being very human and humorous. Even though we are treated only with his voice, Spader was required to act for the character, which later got converted into special effects.

6. James Earl Jones, “Darth Vader”

Darth Vader might be the most iconic villain in cinematic history, right up there with the shark from Jaws and Norman Bates from Psycho. With his trademark heavy breathing and intimidating outfit, it’s hard to believe that Darth Vader has actually been played by quite a few actors. James Earl Jones voiced the supervillain in his now legendary baritone, and played him to perfection. The little nuances he added to the character, were from his own cinematic understanding and intellect, something which is obscure from the public. Although never physically appearing as him, Vader’s symbolic status as a ruthless and powerful supervillain continues to remain intact even today due to the painstaking efforts of James Earl Jones. Hail Jones!

5. Oscar Isaac, “En Sabah Nur”

En sabah Nur, a.k.a Apocalypse, was possibly the most horrifying thing I saw in 2016, right behind his sister from ‘Conjuring 2′. The main antagonist of the latest X-Men movie, born in ancient times, and presumably the world’s first mutant, he has a variety of destructive superhuman abilities, including telekinesis, cyberpathy, teleportation, and the ability to augment other mutants’ abilities. He has been described as the creative/destructive force of the earth. Oscar Isaac came to the attention of the world-wide masses with his portrayal, which was hauntingly poetic and beautiful in it own capacity an accord. The grossly talented actor played the loathsome villain with the precision of a surgeon, and went through cringing endeavors to get the character right, including going through extensive makeup and prosthetics applications, and wearing high-heeled boots to appear taller and a 40-pound suit. A salute to his artistic spirit and dedication!

4. Michael Fassbender, “Magneto”

A fan of the beloved franchise would instantly recognize which movie I am talking about. For the ones who aren’t, the movie in question is ‘X-Men: First Class’. I have always been in a quandary regarding the stance that Magneto opts for. He is neither a hero, nor a villain, but for the sake of this article and my appetite, let’s just say he is a villain. Supervillain would be a better word, owing to his limitless and intimating powers. What initially started out as a trsuting ally of Proff. Xavier’s, becomes a tout and vociferous enemy, owing to philosophical differences with him. An then what we saw was a spectacle. A sheer treat for the fans of the comic fans and mundane mud-bloods alike, and possibly the greatest exhibition of one of the most powerful supervillains imaginable.

3. Tom Hiddlestone, “Loki”

Such was the dexterity with which Hiddlestone played the inhumane supervillain (literally, he is a demi-god), I started abhorring the actor himself. Now recognized as one of the leading superstars and much loved (females, and some men) personalities, Hiddlestone’s spring-board to stardom was his turn as Loki in the Avengers movie. The absolutely evil eyes, substantiated with a devilish and afflicting smile, hiding behind which are plans to subverse the entire human civilization, were a sumptuous treat and a mountain of a challenge for the Avengers. His insouciant behavior towards others, and his blatant disregard for rules and order, are reflected in his devious intentions for some eight billion homo-sapiens, who just think he’s cute. The riveting portrayal brought back memories of Jack Nicholson’s Joker, somewhat similar in appearance, and vague in ambition. An outstanding effort!

2. Tom Hardy, “Bane”

Intimidation and strength were redefined with Hardy’s portrayal of Bane in ‘The Dark Knight Rises’, the harrowing culmination to Nolan’s insatiable trilogy. A mysterious and physically imposing revolutionary, who was excommunicated from the League of Shadows, portrays himself as a “liberator of pain”, and is desperate to continue Ra’s al Ghul’s legacy by destroying Gotham. Nolan chose the character to test Batman both, on a physical level, and a mental level. The masked voice makes for a petrifying experience, and the sheer physicality that Hardy brought to the role made us jump whenever Bane moved a muscle.

1. Heath Ledger, “Joker”

If there was even a whiff of doubt in your minds about who was going to be on top, you don’t deserve to live. Possibly the greatest character assumption of all time, Ledger became the first actor to have won the Oscar posthumously. He left no stone unturned in convincing us of his metamorphosis into the greatest supervillain of all time. He was Joker for the entire duration of filming, and perhaps accented into heaven in the same character. Secluding himself in a hotel room for six months, doing his own make-up and hair, and being the Joker, he left no stone unturned. He improvised many scenes, the most famous being the slow-clapping in the jail, which made the actors around him petrified of him. He asked Bale to punch him with full force in the interrogation scene to get a realistic sense of the Joker’s position. Oh, how the world misses one of the greatest actors of our generation.