Book - 55, Birds, Beasts and Bandits

Birds, Beasts and Bandits (2011)

by

Krupakar & Senani

Book Read: 01-03 Feb 2016

Note Written: 15 February 2016

Omen (my friend & fellow foodie) said he was buying this book. That's how I got to know about and decided to buy this book. 'Birds, Beasts and Bandits' follows the experiences of two wildlife conservationists and filmmakers who were kidnapped by the notorious bandit Veerappan for a period of 14 days, from Bandipur forest region. 

More than the terror or horror of kidnapping, what you feel is a little smile and amusement that grows on you while reading. The society and the government calls Veerappan a bandit, an outlaw, a cruel, heartless person; while it is true that he's done some really bad crimes, but there is sure another side to the coin, there are things that the authorities and the media have not told us, or have lied to us about. While reading the way which Krupakar & Senani with Veerappan, I felt they were more deceit-minded than the bandit. Veerappan does bad things, but he is straight-forward in his actions, a son of the jungle he is. Reading about the jungle experiences, the birds, animals etc., made me want to travel somewhere soon, at least to the trekking routes of Munnar. I shall, soon enough. 

Overall, 'Birds, Beasts and Bandits' is a very interesting read. 

Movie - 54, The Two Faces of January

The Two Faces of January (2014)

by

Hossein Amini

Movie Seen: 02 November 2015

Note Written: 10 November 2015

'The Two Faces of January' follows a tourist couple in Greece and a tourist guide who gets acquainted with them. In the beginning, I thought it would be romantic drama but the movie changed course and became something different, a decent thriller of sorts. 

The Two Faces of January is not a great film but it has its good moments. The colonial, rustic charm of Greece is well portrayed  and I felt, as I do always with great landscapes, that I should visit the place. 

The movie shows the different faces of people and the lengths which ordinary people are willing to go for their convenience, to save themselves from troubles and laws of the society, while accumulating money. The movie is a decent drama worth a one time watch.

Book - 54, ലന്തൻബത്തേരിയിലെ ലുത്തിനിയകൾ (Litanies of the Dutch Battery)

ലന്തൻബത്തേരിയിലെ ലുത്തിനിയകൾ (2003)

by

N S Madhavan

Book Read: 29-31 January 2016

Note Written: 12 February 2016

This book is definitely one of the finest novels to come out of Malayalam. It follows the life of Jessica, a young girl, residing in the island of Lanthan Bathery (Dutch Battery or Bolgatty Island) in Kochi. The novel is great fun to read and has an adventurous feel to it. The stories and legends of Jessica's parents, grandparents, relatives, and the people of the area told in a light and witty manner, combined with the socio-political ambience of Kerala and India at the time, providing for great entertainment and evoking a sense of awe in us. 

A factor which strikes out while reading is its closeness to the Bible and its stories, mainly the parallels between the life of Jesus Christ and Jessica. The chapters denote various stages of Jessica's life. The elements regarding the oft ignored and almost extinct art form 'Chavittunadakam' and the reasons for its slow decline are woven seamlessly into the story, bringing in a sense of nostalgia in us for lost gems such as Chavittunadakam. 

The novel shows us how legends are made up, borrowing from snippets of stories heard and from other outside influences, blended with some local flavour. Jessica's story tells us a lot that we know about inherent nature of people around us - judgmental, fault-finding, blaming, silencing, adventurous, caring, nostalgic, jovial, artistic, fun, persecutive, mob-minded, religious, devout, fanatic, regressive, progressive, aggressive and much more. Have to read the English version and draw a comparison soon. A great read. 

Movie - 53, Taxi Driver

Taxi Driver (1976)

by

Martin Scorcese

Movie Seen: 03 November 2015

Note Written: 16 February 2016

'Taxi Driver' follows a New York cab driver Travis Bickle, a chronic insomniac, trying to make a change in the world that he lives in after he sees and is disturbed by the growing troubles and injustices of it. His actions may not be honour worthy, but his spirit is in the right place - this might leave the viewer in conflict as we, the audience, also face such circumstances like this, want to do something drastic, want to fight these frustrations, yet do not cross the line owing to fear of law or other hesitations of our societal and personal lives. Travis Bickle could easily become one of us, and that's how he became one of the most iconic characters of film history. 

The basic theme of the film (vigilante's without a flashy cape) is reproduced in many films from then. 

My favourite scene from the movie was not the mirror one (improvised by Robert de Niro) but the scene with Martin Scorcese's cameo as the frustrated husband who enters Bickle's cab. The transformation of De Niro to be a kind of saviour, a vigilante, with his mohawk makes for one of the most convincing moments of personal change for the viewer. Travis becomes a vigilante not just with a single incident, it is a gradual progress, the result of a gradual frustration and maturity that is gained by age.  

The life and experiences of urban living, it's frustrations, the various layers of living are all closely examined in the film, through Travis Bickle. Will sure watch again for a better reading of the film. 

Book - 53, Mrs. Dalloway

Mrs. Dalloway (1925)

by

Virginia Woolf

Book Read: 25-28 January 2016

Note Written: 08 February 2016

'Mrs. Dalloway' was my first experience of Virginia Woolf and it was a tough nut to crack. What caught me off my guard was that she switches from the perspective of character to character without any particular break in narration. It was very confusing for me in the initial pages and later on I got the hang of it; it was still difficult novel to grasp though.

Mrs. Dalloway and all the other characters in the novel are people whom we encounter in our lives, people like us, people with varied ambitions, people who fail to realize or achieve most of them. People, divided by class, status, gender, politics, religion etc., fight for their own survival and living, each in their own specific manner, sometimes surrendering themselves and their lives to the flow of the world, like Septimus does in the novel. 

Mrs. Dalloway was a very challenging novel for me, an amateur reader who recently got into the labyrinth of literature, to read. I had to struggle a lot to read through from page to page. The last book that made me struggle like this was Helen MacDonald's memoir, 'H is for Hawk'. But there are rewards to such kind of struggle - of more knowledge, of widened thinking, of increased understanding, and of an increased spirit of endurance. 

Movie - 52, Seven Psychopaths

Seven Psychopaths (2012)

by

Martin McDonagh

Movie Seen: 31 October 2015

Note Written: 16 February 2016

I had no prior knowledge of this movie till the moment I started watching it. It was just lying there in my collection and I picked it at random that day for dinnertime viewing. 'Seven Psychopaths' turned out to be a great entertainer, great fun. 

The movie is a mix of drama, comedy, violence, gore, thrill, perkiness, suspense and hooks you within minutes with its whacky plot-line and whackier characters. A surprise for me was Sam Rockwell as Billy Bickle - he was as psycho as it can get (well, there could be fiercer levels), a great performance. Martin Macdonagh, through 'Seven Psychopaths', has given us a pure, entertaining and engrossing, colourful, black comedy. It was the right kind of movie for me at the time and I'm sure I'll watch it again. 

Book - 52, The Two Towers

The Two Towers (1954)

by

J R R Tolkein

Book Read: 19-23 January 2016

Note Written: 04 February 2016

'The Two Towers' continues from where it left of in 'The Fellowship of the Ring', after the fellowship is broken due to various reasons. Tolkein's poetic descriptions of the events and landscapes take us through the stories of the numerous characters in this epic fantasy saga. 

Rohan and Isengard are the central points of the first part, which follows Merry Pippin on one side, and Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli on the other. Gandalf's return was a lining indeed. I was particularly delighted to read the part of the Ent Match (their slow conferences and weird manners) and the Battle of Isengard. I'm in love with the Ents now. 

The second part of the book follows Frodo and Sam on their journey to Mount Doom, with the help of Smeagol/Gollum. Smeagol's betrayal of them to the giant spider and the ensuing fight between the creature and Sam were the high points of the part. Eagerly waiting to read the third part which concludes the saga. 

Movie -51, Rani Padmini

Rani Padmini (2015)

by

Aashiq Abu

Movie Seen: 30 October 2015

Place: PVR Cinemas, Inorbit Mall, Hyderabad

Note Written: 10 November 2015

The only show available for 'Rani Padmini' in Hyderabad was at 10:10 PM, that too at Inorbit Mall, a bit far for us Secunderabad people. Booked it anyway and went in a group. 

The movie, I felt, was a brave, fun, and honest attempt from director Aashiq Abu. It is daring because, in Malayalam Cinema, feminist themes or female centric stories are not generally accepted. 'Rani Padmini' deserves to be called 'Very Good'(not 'great' but really good) and was totally enjoyable. 

The movie has many great moments. There was so much of laughter in the movie all through its duration without even having the presence of a 'comedian' character. The comedies were largely situational and worked well with the audience. 

During the scenes shot in the High Himalayas, I felt a sense of awe, sadness and a certain regret - what am I doing with my life? I hold a trekking bad and just take it back and forth to and from office everyday - Pthu! I should go to more places. I should have more adventures. 'Rani Padmini' gave me a reason to think hard about doing something about it (not that I have done much till now). 

Thank you, Aashiq Abu, for this joyful film. 

Book - 51, The Sense of an Ending

The Sense of an Ending (2011)

by

Julian Barnes

Book Read: 18-19 January 2016

Note Written: 28 January 2016

'The Sense of an Ending' begins with certain questions on memory, history, time, etc through the experiences and memories of an adolescent boy. The bonds that he had with boys of his age whom he considered his close friends, the addition of one more person to his close circle, the classroom experiences all felt so personal, was a bit nostalgic for me. 

The book has a seemingly honest portrayal of young love life - normal (not fairy-tale like), with so many doubts and apprehensions. There is a big jump of the protagonist's life, spanning decades, which happens within a few lines. Tony Webster, now aged, through his story (what he reveals to us or remembers from the past), is on a quest, an investigation to find out who he was during his youth, when an incident sparks something in him. What he finds out about himself and about the people who used to be close to him forms the novel.

Through this story we find that memory is selective, depends on and differs from person to person. Our perceptions are determined by our understandings and perspectives of the time and built according to whatever that makes us feel good about ourselves. Nobody wants to believe that he/she is a bad person. Later reflections, the return of memories, and reminders from other people make us see another side of things, and sometimes we are in for a bit of shock. 

'The Sense of an Ending' is a neatly crafted personal mystery. It gave me a lot to think and reflect upon.

Than you, Minu Sara Paul, for gifting me this book. 

Movie - 50, Donnie Darko

Donnie Darko (2001)

by

Richard Kelly

Movie Seen: 29 October 2015

Note Written: 18 January 2016

'Donnie Darko' is a movie which stunned my mind with its brilliance of theme and narration, also with its simplicity of execution with regard to its scale. 'Mind-fuck' would be the right word to describe this brilliant movie. It makes you think and read more about the movie itself, the various concepts discussed. You try to understand it and make sense of it, somehow. 

'Donnie Darko' is a film that needs and deserves to be re-watched and I shall be doing it soon. I understand that Richard Kelly wrote the script and made this movie when he was just 26, my age now. Such an intelligent work - makes me jealous and feel bad about myself. Maybe my time is yet to come. Maybe it won't come at all. Maybe I'm lazy. It's a lot of 'Maybe's', I know. Back to the movie now.

Jake Gyllenhall played the troubled teenager with finesse and the supporting cast was great as well. The figure of Frank, the Rabbit haunts you at times, while you watch. It is easy to understand why this movie has a cult status among film aficionados. Interesting, intriguing, and intelligent, I really admire the movie, and feel a tinge of jealousy towards its makers. 

Book - 50, God's Pauper: St. Francis of Assissi

God's Pauper: St. Francis of Assissi (1962)

by

Nikos Kazantzakis

Book Read: 11-18 January 2016

Note Written: 25 January 2016

'St. Francis of Assissi' by Kazantzakis is a deeply spiritual book, told from the perspective of Brother Leo, a trusted companion of the Saint. The perspective is observational yet critical. Leo is part of Francis' transformation as well as ascent to a saint. Leo has witnessed everything, Leo has been a part of everything, Leo has struggled with everything. Leo is the true witness to St. Francis. 

I had read the life story of St. Francis of Assissi during my childhood. 'Assissiyile Vaanambadi' (The Skylark of Assissi) was a book which was gifted to me on the day of my Holy Communion. Growing up in a Catholic household, I am no stranger to the stories of saints. This particular book about Francis Assissi made him my favourite saint of the time, maybe even now. Looking at St. Francis in a different light, this time through Kazantzakis, was a thought-provoking experience for me.

The journeys, agonies, and experiences of St. Francis and Leo can be compared to the legendary 'adventures' of Don Quixote de La Mancha and Sancho Panza. The hardships faced and the lack of acceptance, the craziness, can all be seen similar to the experience of the characters created by Cervantes. The crazy knight with an out-worldly mission who would accept all hardships which comes along can be compared to Francis and the devout follower to Leo. They are ridiculed by the society, beaten up, stoned upon, and yet move forward relentlessly. Leo is a staunch follower, like Sancho, even though with a lot of doubts about his master and the mission, yet follows around like a fool. Francis sees his troubles and agonies as prizes of his devotion to God; Don Quixote sees them as his prizes of valour and necessary sacrifice for the love of Dulcinea del Toboso, also imaginary, but believed to be true. 

Yet another thing I would like to mention is that for ascetics and religious monks, religion and salvation are often very patriarchal notions. It is always an exclusive world of men, or of women. Why were there only brotherhoods and sisterhoods and not human-hoods? Why do we need gendered paths of salvation if God created us as one? 

The book left me with a lot of doubts upon St. Francis, on faith, on religion, on life itself; I couldn't agree with most of his (Kazantzakis' Francis) notions or arguments, yet it was an interesting life to experience. The novel was definitely worth reading and reflecting upon. 

Movie - 49, Up In The Air

Up In The Air (2009)

by

Jason Reitman

Movie Seen: 25 October 2015

Note Written: 14 January 2016

'Up in the Air' was a movie which I had refrained from watching on the notion that it would be very serious. I couldn't have been more wrong. It's a delightful movie with stunning visuals and a great cast. The aerial shots of various cities of America, showing the extensive travel-lifestyle of the lead character, were great to watch. Ryan Bingham is a character tailor-made for George Clooney and he plays the 'lay-off specialist' with no sense of responsibility, with great ease. Anna Kendrick was a marvel to see with her great comedic timing - she was totally fun to watch. I thought the film was heading to a rom-com style cliche climax but then the director saved the day avoiding it. Jason Reitman's films are always a delightful experience. I would recommend this film to anyone who would like a happy, time-pass movie which would not bore you at all. 

Book - 49, The Thirty Nine Steps

The Thirty Nine Steps (1915)

by

John Buchan

Book Read: 09-10 January 2016

Note Written: 21 January 2016

I had seen the movie adaptation of this story some years ago during my course on Alfred Hitchcock and that familiarity is why I purchased this book when I saw it on a book sale. 'The Thirty Nine Steps' is a deeply engaging thriller from cover to cover. Told in a first person narrative, it follows a Londoner, not so fond of the city, who sees a stranger who reveals big secrets to him and then got murdered, and now he has to sort things out. 

The first person style of narration is the biggest strength of the book. It gives the novel a unique flavour and you feel that you have to solve the mystery along with the protagonist, since you only know what he knows. Persistence and patience are most often the keys to unravel certain secrets you would like to know. The story is well crafted and was an absolute pleasure reading. I would keep in mind the name 'John Buchan' and be on the lookout for more of his works. 

Movie - 48, Fargo

Fargo (1996)

by

Joel and Ethan Cohen

Movie Seen: 25 October 2015

Note Written: 14 November 2015

'Fargo' is a movie which shows how a simple, stupid human act of selfishness and greed can turn things haywire and so complicated for the people involved, and affect people you wouldn't even know about, save for the occurrence of that moment of flaw. The movie is a grim tale with comedy spread all over; it makes you laugh as well as it makes you sad, angry, or shocked. 

It is a great movie in terms of scripting, direction, and its stellar cinematography. The directors succeed in conveying the subtle message and depicting the simplicity, frailty, and stupidity of human actions. Each frame was chosen carefully and adds to the beauty and impact of the movie.

Frances McDormand as the Police Chief Marge Gunderson, steals the show with her exemplary performance. I loved the chemistry between Chief Marge and her husband. All the characters of the movie are very realistic - you feel for them and identify with some, at least some, of their actions. This is where the film wins big-time - in making is feel. Fargo is now considered a cult-classic, and rightly so. 

Book - 48, A Storm of Swords : Steel and Snow

A Storm of Swords : Steel and Snow (2000)

by

George R R Martin

Book Read: 24 December 2015 - 08 January 2016

Note Written: 20 January 2016

The quest to complete 'A Song of Ice and Fire' series and 'Lord of the Rings' series continues. 'Steel and Snow', part one of 'A Storm of Swords' has many important events happening which were major reveals and turning points in the TV series. This is where Jon Snow gets together with Ygritte, Daenerys buys the Unsullied, Tyrion's weds again, Sam escapes with Gilly, Arya meets the Hound among many other turn of events. 

The novel was very engaging and thrilling. Even though it took me more than usual time to complete the novel because of my journey to Kerala and the number of weddings which I attended, every once in a while I started reading, it was difficult to stop. The flow of the series has been bettered compared to the first book, I felt. 

Comparing the TV series with the novel gets difficult at times; I try not to, but it seems impossible not to have those wonderful visuals infront of you. In some parts the visual possibilities of narration of the TV series outsmart the whats written in the novel. For example, in the part were Daenerys buys the Unsullied, the TV series stands tall because they could actually use a foreign language, as opposed to the novel where it just said that she spoke High Valyrian. It helps to have seen the series because you can put faces and behavioural styles of the actors to the characters, but sometimes it's a curse as well; your imaginative power gets restricted, or the actors really don't complement the feature of the written character. 

'Steel and Snow' was a great thrill read for me. Eagerly waiting to read the next and the next. Valar Morghulis!

Movie - 47, The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari

The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1920)

by

Robert Wiene

Movie Seen: 23 October 2015

Note Written: 14 November 2015

I was mostly free that day at work and watched this 'The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari' there. As a movie which is considered a landmark in world cinema and prelude to the genre of film noir, this movie was always there in my wish list. 'The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari' starts on a grim note where two people are sitting in a garden contemplating on dead people's spirits and one of them begins narrating and ordeal/incident which he was a part of. A contemporary parallel to 'The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari' could be 'Shutter Island', even though this movie is different in many aspects and stands a notch above the latter.

The mis-en-scene of the movie is its greatest asset, as unusually shaped backgrounds, rooms, settings, and buildings take you through a surrealistic world. Even though we now are used to various genres of horror movies and seen all kinds of suspenseful narration, this classic still succeeds in creating an impact and a small sense of fear in you. The movie perhaps has one of the first 'end-twists' in world cinema and I was shocked to see something like that used in a cinema from then. 

Shadows and lights played a crucial part in bringing out the spookiness and horror intended, perfecting this masterpiece of German Expressionism. The inter-titles and readings from psychological texts describing Dr. Caligari's experiments builds intrigue in us and enhances the power of the plot and the movie as a whole. There's a reason classics are classics and I should watch more of them.