Self-Improvement Strategies for Empowerment"

In this collection of reviews, we embark on a diverse cinematic journey, offering a selection of captivating films and series.

DEAR CHILD

Netflix’s “Dear Child” is a riveting mini-series that delves into the harrowing world of abduction, focusing on the complex bonds between a mother and her children. With relentless storytelling, outstanding performances, and unsettling twists, it offers a profound exploration of human cruelty and psychological depth. The characters, shrouded in mystery, each grapple with their unique torment, leaving viewers pondering their circumstances. Naila Schuberth and Kim Riedle deliver exceptional performances. The narrative unfolds briskly, maintaining tension and defying expectations. “Dear Child” is an intense and twisted viewing experience that lingers, subverting expectations at every turn.

SUKHEE

In the film “Sukhee,” Shilpa Shetty Kundra displays her acting versatility by portraying a middle-aged housewife, offering a departure from her usual glamorous roles. Directed by Sonal Joshi, the movie combines humor and drama to deliver an emotionally resonant narrative. Shetty, in a pre-release interview, emphasized the film’s ability to connect with viewers on a deep level, particularly middle-class married women and mothers. “Sukhee” tells the story of self-discovery and empowerment, encouraging women to prioritize themselves. While the film’s runtime could have been tighter, Shilpa Shetty’s compelling performance and the camaraderie of the female leads make it an engaging and relatable watch.

JOYCE CAROL OATES: A BODY IN THE SERVICE OF MIND

“Joyce Carol Oates: A Body in the Service of Mind” offers a respectful but somewhat surface-level exploration of the renowned author’s life and work. Director Stig Björkman provides an intimate glimpse into Oates’s world, with interviews and readings by Laura Dern. While the documentary touches on Oates’s impact on literature and her willingness to engage in political discourse, it tends to skim over crucial moments. Nevertheless, it offers an engaging and authentic portrait of a prolific writer who continues to be a dynamic presence. For Oates enthusiasts, it’s a worthwhile watch, but it may leave some wanting a deeper dive.

KUMARI SRIMATHI

Nithya Menen’s latest web series, “Kumari Srimathi,” is a refreshing departure from the typical OTT content. This Telugu comedy-drama, directed by Gomtesh Upadhye and featuring a strong-willed Nithya Menen as the titular character, offers a breezy and humorous take on a woman’s journey to reclaim her ancestral home by opening a bar and restaurant in her village. The dysfunctional family dynamics add depth to the narrative, making it relatable and entertaining. With a blend of comedy and drama, “Kumari Srimathi” presents characters and situations that resonate with viewers. It’s a welcome addition to Telugu content on Prime Video, offering a delightful and empowering story for women battling patriarchy. Audiences can enjoy this web series in Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Hindi languages.

JAANE JAAN

Sujoy Ghosh’s “Jaane Jaan,” an adaptation of Keigo Higashino’s “The Devotion of Suspect X,” delivers a murder mystery with intriguing elements but not without its shortcomings. The narrative, set in the misty backdrop of Kalimpong, explores the compelling dynamic between Kareena Kapoor Khan’s character, Maya, and her daughter. Kareena’s performance is solid, even though her character’s development leaves room for improvement.
“Jaane Jaan” presents a mixed bag of pros and cons. While it excels in showcasing Kareena Kapoor Khan’s talent and explores a unique mother-daughter bond, it falters in terms of character development and occasionally loses focus on its emotional depth.