Release date:July 8, 2016
(limited)
Studio:Bleecker Street
Director:Matt Ross
MPAA Rating:N/A
Screenwriter:Matt Ross
Starring:Viggo Mortensen, Frank Langella, George MacKay, Samantha Isler, Annalise Basso, Nicholas Hamilton, Shree Crooks, Charlie Shotwell , Ann Dowd, Erin Moriarty, Missi Pyle, Kathryn Hahn, Steve Zahn
Genre:Drama, Comedy
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The film starts strong and finishes the same way. From the opening scenes to the very last one, this film has something to say! During the course of this film we are shown an amazingly cohesive unit. We are introduced to a father solely dedicated to the nurturing of his family. In fact, in the very beginning of this film we see something that I believe is definitely lacking in our modern society; The Rite of Passage. We see the family out for the hunt come out looking for food for the evening meal. It is the son, however, who makes the kill, and we are voyuered into this moment of the father honoring the son and welcoming him into manhood.
Ben, played by Viggo Mortenson, it’s shown to be a very loving and devoted father/husband throughout this movie, giving instruction a well as cultivating strong minds and strong bodies. He achieves by living almost completely off the grid. They light their world with fire, they feed their minds with books, they strengthen their bodies with exercise and feed their character by responsibility and accountability.
Now before you think this is some story about Utopia, let me dispel that right now. One of the foundations of this story is that Ben’s wife revealed, early on, to be quite ill, and is in the city receiving treatments for her ailment which is an ongoing challenge for everything in this family.
In the beginning it is not revealed what the story is with the wife, but it doesn’t take very long for it to be shown forth. There’s a good amount of time spent in developing how much Ben loves his wife. Even to the point of fighting/arguing with his father-in-law over certain particulars. There’s a lot of development in the beginning of the film, which I appreciated. Different personalities different strengths different weaknesses are all shown in each of the children as well as Ben. Rather early in the film it is revealed that Ben’s wife dies. Ben now has the daunting task informing his children about her death. The beauty of this scene is that he allows them to freely express themselves, to express their grief. Some huddle together, others express their grief by being alone, and still others lash out violently, but the fantastic thing about this is that he allows them that moment, that very necessary moment.
We see early on that there is no great love from his father in law, as his father in law blames Ben for all the tribulations that his daughter had gone through. Ben, however, is quick to point out that ALL of the decisions they made were made together. She wanted to be with him, she wanted to live off the grid, she also wanted to raise their family away from rotten schools, cheap capitalism, and wanted to try to make it so that they would actually learn something.
Ben gets forbidden from attending his wife’s funeral by his father-in-law, and even though he is very upset over this mandate, initially opting not to attend, he decides, with some coercion from his children, to go ahead and attend anyway. Now this is where the real fun begins!
They come down off of their mountain fortress and descend into “the pit”, or civilization, if you will. Here the children are introduced to things like shopping malls, restaurant food and rampant materialism. This situation brings about its own set of troubles in that the children have never been exposed to this kind of environment and so it raises questions, desires, things of that nature which Ben has to address. This is awkward for him because it’s brand-new for his children, and even though he had some experience with this it’s been a very long time since he’s had to deal with it. The situation is handled…awkwardly, but not terribly.
In that same humor vein they make a stop at his sister’s house where she attempts to make the point that his children need more structure and that they need to be in school and things of that nature. There’s also a dramatic contrast between the brutal honesty of Ben with his family and the euphemistic way that his sister explains things to her children. The humor comes into play when the sister’s explaining how going to public school is so fantastic and then Ben calls her children down from upstairs and ask them about the Bill of Rights. Her children bumble through a ridiculous attempt at explaining what they think it is, by saying something along the lines of “isn’t that the bill that gives you the right to buy stuff?”, while his own eight-year-old is not only to recite the Bill of Rights, but is also able to explain it in her own words, which of course puts his sister’s children and herself to shame. I think I especially like this scene because it was a testimony of how things are in many public schools today. There’s a level of apathy towards history and general education which I believe will hurt our future if it does not change.
Anyway, back to the movie. Eventually they arrive at the funeral and this is where things get very interesting. The family arrives, in what could be considered, by some, to be rather garish clothing. There are many bright colors and clothes that are from an entirely different era. Around them, of course, we see the traditional garb of a funeral and so naturally they stand out. It is in scenes like this where we see Frank Langella, who plays the father in law Jack, bring some amazing and subtle weight to this character. In later scenes we see more of the root of Jack’s frustration, and why he blames Ben for his daughter’s death. Ben, however, makes it abundantly clearto him, yet again, that he and his wife made all of their decisions together. It is in this chapter of the scenes that follow where we see a new element get brought to light and that is that Jack wants to take the children from Ben. For Ben this is a thermonuclear Shockwave that nearly cracks his foundation. Naturally, he fights for his family, but this is one of the heavier parts of the movie. There’s a lot of desperation shown forth on the part of Ben and that has its own consequences. It is in the scenes after this where Ben has to make sure the most difficult choices of his life and that makes this section of the film challenging to watch, being a father myself.
In the end, however, we see the family bond together through this, and the end has very nice element of closure. Overall I would highly recommend this movie! It is filled with laughter, challenges, and real life family situations.
As a devoted fan of South Indian action cinema and an entertainment journalist, I’ve come to admire the sheer charisma, talent, and screen presence of a few iconic actors who have redefined the genre. Here’s a list of my top five favorite Indian action heroes, along with a couple of must-watch movies from each of them that showcase their incredible prowess on screen.
- NTR Jr.
Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao Jr., known as NTR Jr., is an electrifying performer who blends action and emotion effortlessly. His dialogue delivery, intensity, and dance moves make him a powerhouse in South Indian cinema.
Must-Watch Movies:
RRR (2022): Directed by S.S. Rajamouli, this epic action-drama showcases NTR Jr. as Komaram Bheem, a fierce and compassionate warrior.
Temper (2015): NTR Jr. delivers a riveting performance as a corrupt cop who embarks on a journey of redemption.
- Allu Arjun
The “Stylish Star” of Tollywood, Allu Arjun, is celebrated for his fluid dance moves, charismatic screen presence, and action-packed roles. His ability to transform into diverse characters has won him a massive fanbase.
Must-Watch Movies:
Pushpa: The Rise (2021): As Pushpa Raj, a smuggler with unyielding determination, Allu Arjun delivers a gritty and unforgettable performance.
Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo (2020): While not strictly an action film, it features intense fight scenes and showcases Allu Arjun’s versatility.
- Prabhas
Known for his larger-than-life roles, Prabhas has become a global sensation. His dedication to his craft and ability to headline mega-budget films set him apart.
Must-Watch Movies:
Baahubali: The Beginning (2015) & Baahubali: The Conclusion (2017): These iconic films, directed by S.S. Rajamouli, transformed Prabhas into a household name.
Saaho (2019): A high-octane action-thriller where Prabhas portrays an enigmatic cop.
- Yash
Yash’s meteoric rise to stardom is nothing short of inspirational. His raw energy, intense action sequences, and ability to connect with audiences have solidified his status as a South Indian action hero.
Must-Watch Movies:
KGF: Chapter 1 (2018) & KGF: Chapter 2 (2022): Yash as Rocky Bhai is a cinematic phenomenon, blending larger-than-life action with a gripping storyline.
Masterpiece (2015): A lesser-known gem that highlights Yash’s charisma and action chops.
- Ram Charan
Ram Charan, a dynamic performer, has mastered the art of blending action, drama, and dance in his roles. His nuanced performances and incredible screen presence make him a fan favorite.
Must-Watch Movies:
RRR (2022): His portrayal of Alluri Sitarama Raju, alongside NTR Jr., is a masterclass in action and emotion.
Magadheera (2009): A timeless classic that combines action, romance, and fantasy in a spellbinding narrative.
Why These Actors Shine
What makes these stars stand out in the realm of South Indian action movies is their ability to push boundaries, take on challenging roles, and deliver performances that resonate with audiences. Whether it’s NTR Jr.’s emotional depth, Allu Arjun’s stylish personas, Prabhas’s epic presence, Yash’s raw intensity, or Ram Charan’s versatility, these actors have set benchmarks in the industry.
So, if you’re an action movie enthusiast like me, dive into their filmographies—you won’t be disappointed!
When RRR stormed onto the global stage, it didn’t just captivate audiences—it redefined Indian cinema’s reach. Among the legion of admirers is none other than James Gunn, the mastermind behind Guardians of the Galaxy and the architect of DC Studios’ cinematic future. Gunn’s vocal admiration for the film, particularly its star NTR Jr., has sparked excitement in Hollywood and beyond. It’s a testament to NTR Jr.’s exceptional talent and a long-overdue recognition of his abilities as an actor of extraordinary caliber.
In interviews and social media posts, Gunn has repeatedly praised RRR for its storytelling, high-octane action, and emotionally charged performances. However, what truly stood out for the acclaimed filmmaker was NTR Jr.’s portrayal of Komaram Bheem. Gunn lauded NTR Jr.’s magnetic screen presence, noting how his nuanced performance struck the perfect balance between raw intensity and heartfelt vulnerability. For Gunn, this wasn’t just an appreciation of a great film—it was a call to collaborate with an actor who embodies the charisma and skill needed for global stardom.
As Gunn reshapes the DC Universe, the prospect of bringing NTR Jr. into the fold feels like a natural progression. With his eye for blending humor, heart, and heroism, Gunn’s creative vision would pair seamlessly with NTR Jr.’s dynamic acting range.
Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao Jr., affectionately known as Tarak, is no stranger to acclaim. Hailing from the illustrious Nandamuri family, his rise to stardom was marked by a series of standout performances in Telugu cinema. With each role, NTR Jr. has proven his versatility, effortlessly transitioning from emotionally driven characters in films like Yamadonga to action-packed blockbusters such as Temper and Janatha Garage. His role in RRR, however, elevated his craft to an international platform.
In RRR, NTR Jr. brought Komaram Bheem to life with an intensity that left audiences in awe. From the iconic jungle tiger scene to the emotionally wrenching friendship dynamic with Ram Charan’s Raju, he carried the weight of the film on his broad shoulders with effortless grace. His ability to portray strength, resilience, and vulnerability in equal measure cements him as one of Indian cinema’s greatest.
For years, Indian actors have slowly been making their mark on Hollywood, but NTR Jr. is poised to take it a step further. His universal appeal, combined with his dedication to his craft, makes him a natural choice for a crossover into global cinema. James Gunn’s interest in collaborating with him is not just a compliment—it’s a recognition of the talent that has long deserved a spotlight.
In a time when audiences are demanding more diverse stories and authentic representation, NTR Jr.’s inclusion in a major Hollywood franchise would be a game-changer. Whether as a DC superhero, a cosmic adventurer, or a complex antihero, Tarak has the range to bring any character to life.
Gunn’s admiration for RRR and NTR Jr. signifies more than just a potential collaboration. It’s a validation of Indian cinema’s ability to produce world-class talent and stories that resonate across cultures. As filmmakers like Gunn shine a light on stars like NTR Jr., the gap between Bollywood, Tollywood, and Hollywood continues to narrow, creating a truly global entertainment industry.
For NTR Jr., this could be the beginning of a journey that takes him from an Indian megastar to an international icon. As fans of cinema, we can only hope that James Gunn’s vision materializes, giving us the opportunity to see Tarak in a role that matches his immense potential. After all, it’s about time the world recognizes what Indian audiences have known for years—NTR Jr. is a force to be reckoned with.
Review By: Raja V. Deva
Genre: Political Action Thriller
Runtime: Approximately 165 minutes
Director: S. Shankar
Writer: Story by Karthik Subbaraj; Screenplay by S. Shankar, Vivek, and Venkatesan
Cast: Ram Charan, Kiara Advani, Anjali, S. J. Suryah, Srikanth, Sunil, Jayaram, Samuthirakani
Music Composer: Thaman S
“Game Changer” marks S. Shankar’s foray into Telugu cinema with a political action thriller designed to be grand in scale and ambition. The film features Ram Charan in dual roles: Appanna, a shrewd political leader, and his son, Ram Nandan, an upright IAS officer determined to clean up a corrupt system. However, despite the actor’s valiant efforts, the story doesn’t fully work with Ram Charan in the lead.
Originally conceptualized for another actor, the film’s narrative feels like it was tailored for someone with real-life political aspirations. While Ram Charan brings his star power and intensity to the roles, the weighty political undertones and the narrative’s structure don’t align well with his on-screen persona. His dual performance showcases his range, but the emotional depth and conviction required to anchor such a politically charged film seem misaligned with his strengths.
The supporting cast provides decent performances, with Kiara Advani and Anjali making their presence felt, though their characters lack depth. S. J. Suryah stands out as a formidable antagonist, adding gravitas to the film. Thaman S’s background score enhances the mood, though the songs occasionally disrupt the flow of the narrative.
Visually, the film boasts stunning production values and large-scale set pieces, typical of Shankar’s style. However, even the grandeur and intricate action sequences can’t mask the disjointed storytelling. The screenplay struggles to balance its political commentary with its action-oriented approach, leaving neither element fully realized.
Ultimately, “Game Changer” feels like a project that missed its mark. The story might resonate with audiences interested in political drama or those with a penchant for larger-than-life narratives, but it doesn’t do justice to Ram Charan’s abilities or his established image.
Rating: 6/10
For fans of Ram Charan or political thrillers, it might be worth a watch, but “Game Changer” feels like an opportunity lost to deliver a truly compelling cinematic experience.
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James Gunn’s Love for RRR: The Rise of NTR Jr. as a Global Phenomenon
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