No Spoilers

“Apathy is the solution. I mean, it’s easier to lose yourself in drugs than it is to cope with life. It’s easier to steal what you want than it is to earn it. It’s easier to beat a child than it is to raise it. Hell, love costs: it takes effort and work.”

It may come as a shock to many but director David Fincher’s seminal thriller: Seven turns 30 years old this year. Released in 1995 (the math is math-ing) it was the first film Fincher and 90’s heart throb Brad Pitt worked together. It was the film that proved Fincher’s directorial prowess as well as proving Pitt wasn’t just a pretty face but an actor to be lauded. Seven’s neo-noir style was fresh; wonderfully eerie, and befitting the gruesome tone.

I was way too young to see the debut of Seven and admittedly I knew most of the twists through cultural osmosis but I still wanted to see this juggernaut of a murder mystery on the big screen for its anniversary cinematic re-release. 

Initially Denzel Washington was tapped to star. Fincher recently admitted that Washington did not like the script which had to be rewritten 10 or 11 times to suit the actor (Fincher, 2025). Despite these reviews Washington ultimately turned down the role but Washington’s loss was Morgan Freeman’s (and our!) gain. 

Freeman plays Detective Lt William Somerset who is 7 days away from retirement. Unsurprisingly the number 7 also plays a big role in the film. For his last assignment Somerset is given the case of killer who is artfully killing their victims using the guise of the 7 (see!) Deadly Sins.

Beginning with the sin of ‘Gluttony’ the killer forced a morbidly obese man to literally eat himself to death at gunpoint. This is where we enter the movie and it only gets more disturbing from here!

Brad Pitt’s character; Detective David Mills is new to this unnamed gloomy city accompanied by his wife (Gwyneth Paltrow). The city seems to be its own biosphere where it rains constantly. Not only does this add a sense of foreboding but it could also be a nod to the biblical flood, punishing the characters for their supposed sins. Seven has many religious undertones.

Detective Mills is assigned to the case with Somerset whom he has to remind that despite his youthful appearance, Mills is no ‘rookie’ and has worked on many disturbing cases. 

As the sins are counted off the killers methods become more and more sadistic. This leads to a climax that even today, thirty years later, is still shocking and widely quoted. 

Seven is a classic due to its many components working together seamlessly. The artful direction, the moody set design, and the atmospheric score composed by Howard Shore, who also scored The Silence of the Lambs. It is amazing to experience the score with cinematic surround sound, particularly the groundbreaking opening credits punctuated by Nine Inch Nails song ‘Closer’.

The two leads are predictably fantastic but the relatively small cast all give memorable performance. R. Lee Ermey (Full Metal Jacket) brings his authoritative charm to the grizzled police captain. John C McGinley (Platoon) gives his usual energetic performance heading the movies SWAT team as ‘California’ (unclear whether this is a code name or his actual name). Interestingly Fincher sourced McGinley’s talent for adlibbing as most of his scenes are adlibbed.

In one of the most iconic scenes in the film and arguably one of the most famous jump scares in cinematic history. The actors (including Freeman, McGinley, and Pitt) were not told to expect this particular scare. So the reactions of the characters are the genuine reactions of the actors. See if you can spot which scene!

Some may be tempted to dismiss Seven as just another popcorn thriller but, for me, there are several lines that are so well written they stay with you. In one scene an unnamed doctor is speaking about the death of a character; “He’s experienced about as much pain and suffering as anyone I’ve encountered, give or take, and he still has hell to look forward to.” This line is powerful on many levels as it is said with the casualness and dark humour of a doctor who is numbed to treating the evils of this world. It perfectly encapsulates the dark inevitability of the film.

It is clear why Seven is considered a classic. For any millennials (such as myself) or Gen Z’s or indeed anyone who wants to relive the creeping tension, I highly recommend catching it on the big screen!

As an anime enthusiast and entertainment journalist, I’ve curated a list of the top five must-see anime series of 2024. These selections showcase the diversity and creativity that define the medium, offering compelling narratives and stunning animation.

Delicious in Dungeon
This series combines culinary arts with fantasy adventure, following a group of dungeon explorers who cook and eat the monsters they defeat. The unique premise and mouth-watering depictions of fantasy cuisine make it a standout this year. Kaiju No. 8
Set in a world plagued by kaiju attacks, the story centers on a protagonist who gains the ability to transform into a kaiju himself. The series offers a fresh take on the kaiju genre, blending action with deep character development.

Kaiju No. 8
Set in a world plagued by kaiju attacks, the story centers on a protagonist who gains the ability to transform into a kaiju himself. The series offers a fresh take on the kaiju genre, blending action with deep character development. Solo Leveling
Adapted from the popular web novel, this anime follows a weak hunter who becomes the world’s strongest after a mysterious system grants him unique abilities. Its dynamic animation and gripping storyline have captivated audiences worldwide.

Solo Leveling
Adapted from the popular web novel, this anime follows a weak hunter who becomes the world’s strongest after a mysterious system grants him unique abilities. Its dynamic animation and gripping storyline have captivated audiences worldwide. The Elusive Samurai
Set in feudal Japan, this historical series follows a young samurai who uses his agility and wit to survive in a turbulent era. The anime’s blend of historical context and engaging action sequences has garnered critical acclaim.

The Elusive Samurai
Set in feudal Japan, this historical series follows a young samurai who uses his agility and wit to survive in a turbulent era. The anime’s blend of historical context and engaging action sequences has garnered critical acclaim. Dragon Ball Daima
The latest installment in the iconic Dragon Ball franchise, this series introduces new transformations and challenges for Goku and his friends. Its high-octane battles and nostalgic elements appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers.

Dragon Ball Daima
The latest installment in the iconic Dragon Ball franchise, this series introduces new transformations and challenges for Goku and his friends. Its high-octane battles and nostalgic elements appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers. These anime series exemplify the innovation and storytelling prowess that continue to drive the medium’s global popularity. Whether you’re a seasoned otaku or new to anime, these titles are essential viewing for 2024.

Director: Sukumar

Cast: Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, Fahadh Faasil

Genre: Action, Drama

Rating: 4.5/5

Pushpa: The Rise is a raw, adrenaline-fueled ride that showcases the underbelly of the red sandalwood smuggling trade in Andhra Pradesh. Directed by Sukumar, this movie brilliantly blends high-octane action with emotionally driven storytelling, making it a must-watch for fans of Telugu cinema and action dramas.

The narrative follows Pushpa Raj (Allu Arjun), a laborer in the red sandalwood trade, as he climbs the ranks to become a powerful figure. Born into poverty and scorned for his illegitimacy, Pushpa’s journey is marked by grit, ambition, and a fierce sense of self-respect. The film deftly balances the action-packed rise of Pushpa with moments of vulnerability, particularly in his tumultuous romance with Srivalli (Rashmika Mandanna).

The antagonist, Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat (Fahadh Faasil), is introduced towards the film’s end, setting the stage for a gripping sequel. The climactic confrontation between Pushpa and Shekhawat is a masterclass in tension-building, leaving viewers eagerly awaiting Pushpa: The Rule.

Allu Arjun: This is Allu Arjun’s film through and through. His transformation into Pushpa is a revelation, from his rugged look to his unapologetic demeanor. His mannerisms, including the now-iconic shoulder rub and dialogue delivery, make Pushpa an unforgettable character.

Rashmika Mandanna: While her role as Srivalli adds emotional depth to the story, it feels slightly underutilized. However, her chemistry with Allu Arjun is undeniable.

Fahadh Faasil: Despite limited screen time, Fahadh delivers a chilling performance as the cold and calculating Shekhawat. His presence promises an explosive conflict in the sequel.

Sukumar’s direction is stellar, balancing mass appeal with nuanced storytelling. The screenplay maintains a brisk pace, seamlessly weaving action sequences with character development. The film’s raw and grounded tone is a departure from the glossy feel of many mainstream Telugu films, adding authenticity to the story.

Mirosław Kuba Brożek’s cinematography is stunning, capturing the lush forests of Andhra Pradesh and the gritty world of the red sandalwood trade.

Devi Sri Prasad’s music is another highlight. Tracks like “Srivalli” and “Oo Antava” became cultural phenomena, while the background score enhanced the film’s intensity.

Action Sequences: The action choreography is visceral and hard-hitting, perfectly complementing the film’s tone.

The film explores themes of ambition, class struggle, and self-respect. Pushpa’s refusal to bow down to societal norms resonates deeply, making him a relatable anti-hero. The story also critiques the systemic exploitation of laborers, adding a layer of social commentary.

Pushpa: The Rise is an exemplary action-drama that redefines the Telugu film industry’s global appeal. With a magnetic performance by Allu Arjun, stellar direction by Sukumar, and unforgettable music, it stands out as one of the best films of 2021. While it occasionally falters with some underdeveloped subplots, the overall experience is nothing short of spectacular.

4.5/5 Pushpa: The Rise is a cinematic feast that deserves its cult status. Whether you’re a fan of Telugu action films or a newcomer, this film is a must-watch. Its cliffhanger ending ensures that Pushpa: The Rule will be even bigger and better.