Apart from one or two diamonds in the rough, there are not much to look forward to this weekend when it comes to new releases. Keep reading to know more.
Panipat
Directed by: Ashutosh Gowariker
With: Arjun Kapoor, Sanjay Dutt, Kriti Sanon, and Zeenat Aman
What is it about: In the 18th century, the Marathas emerge as the most powerful empire in the whole India. However, their happiness is short lived as the Afghan King Ahmad Shah Abdali plans to take over India and the Maratha Peshwa orders Sadashiv Rao Bhau to stop him at any cost, thus leading to the Third Battle of Panipat between the two armies.
Heads Up: The latest film from acclaimed director Ashutosh Gowariker (Lagaan: Once Upon a Time in India, Swades, Jodhaa Akbar) promises epic battles, great production values, and perhaps new interpretations of historic events. This one had me somewhat curious, but not fully invested.
Dark Waters
Directed by: Todd Haynes
With: Mark Ruffalo, Anne Hathaway, Tim Robbins, and Bill Pullman
What is it about: A corporate defense attorney takes on an environmental lawsuit against a chemical company that exposes a lengthy history of pollution.
Heads Up: Acclaimed director Todd Haynes (Far From Heaven, I’m Not There, Carol) is switching gear and bringing us something different this time around; a legal thriller drama with some serious 90s vibes. Think A Civil Action meets Erin Brockovich. It also has very strong reviews, so this is one to highly consider this weekend.
Daniel Isn’t Real
Directed by: Adam Egypt Mortimer
With: Patrick Schwarzenegger, Miles Robbins, and Sasha Lane
What is it about: A troubled college freshman, Luke, suffers a violent family trauma and resurrects his childhood imaginary friend Daniel to help him cope.
Heads Up: This indie horror flick is garnering strong reviews. The interplay between the timid Luke (Robbins) and the charismatic Daniel (Schwarzenegger) reminds me of the main dynamic in Fight Club. It’s refreshing to have such an offering especially in a week with nothing much to see, so I would say go for it.
A Score to Settle
Directed by: Shawn Ku
With: Nicolas Cage, Benjamin Bratt, and Noah Le Gros
What is it about: An ex-enforcer for a local crime syndicate has vowed to enact retribution on his mob bosses after 19 years of wrongful imprisonment. The only thing diverting his violent plans is a new found relationship to his beloved son.
Heads Up: Unless you are a sucker for everything Cage, I would advise you to stay away from this dismal looking and poorly reviewed b-movie.
Code 8
Directed by: Jeff Chan
With: Robbie Amell, Stephen Amell, and Sung Kang
What is it about: A desperate young man possessing special powers clashes with a militarized police force after committing a petty crime. Based on the short film.
Heads Up: This sci-fi thriller has an interesting premise, but I am not sure whether it will deliver on its promise. I’d wait and see when it comes to this one.
