Release Date: November 12, 2013
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 143 min
Director:Zack Snyder
Studio:Warner Bros. Pictures
Genre:Action, Adventure
Stars: Henry Cavill, Amy Adams, Michael Shannon, Kevin Costner, Diane Lane, Laurence Fishburne, Antje Traue, Ayelet Zurer, Christopher Meloni, Russell Crowe, Michael Kelly, Harry Lennix, Richard Schiff
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Amidst a crumbling world headed for imminent destruction, hope is born. The origin story of Superman, the alien who became mankind’s greatest defender, has been told a million times over. The super speed, strength, flight, heat and x-ray vision all made possible by the yellow sun that circles Earth. It’s all there in the new film, Man of Steel from Zack Snyder. After much hype because of the involvement of Producer Christopher Nolan, (whom is responsible for setting the gold standard for comic inspired movies with his Dark Knight trilogy of films) did Man of Steel come off looking heroic or like a crazy hobo wearing his underwear outside his pants?
The story is a revisiting of the plot from 1981 Superman 2 film of sorts. General Zod comes from the Phantom Zone to invade Earth and Superman has to fight off his own people in an epic battle. They add in a more detailed version of Superman’s beginnings, and the motivations behind Zod invading earth. They even touch on the Kryptonian infrastructure and way of life. The details actually make Zod seem a little less evil and more of a misguided hero of sorts. There are quite a few flash back portions that chronicle the early days of adolescent Clark Kent going through an even more confusing version of puberty, as his comes with extra complications. The need for him to keep his abilities a secret brings up some of the most poignant and thought provoking dialogue in the film. At one point his adopted father, Jonathan Kent, suggest that maybe he should’ve let a bus load of his classmates drown in an accident in order to keep his secret. Things like that I don’t think have been put out in the open in Superman stories. It helps to show why Clark / Superman has the outlook on life and sense of justice he is known for.
I’ve always believed that Superman is a boring character as he has infinite powers and it’s hard to believe he’s ever really in peril. But, the handling of his background and interactions with the human race in Man of Steel make his story more enticing than ever before. It’s no doubt that Nolan gave Snyder a few pointers on how to make the film touch a little closer to reality than any other film about Supes before. The acting is pretty much A+, as Henry Cavil pulls off Superman easily. Zod comes off as a cold, angry, hell-bent on accomplishing his goal individual as only Michael Shannon can portray. If you’re familiar with his work on Boardwalk Empire you know what I mean. The effects are top notch on the visual side. The fight between Superman and his Kryptonian brethren and even the many acts of destruction shown throughout the movie are very good. Maybe I’m over it or whatever but, I just didn’t see the reason for 3-D on this film or many films since Avatar made it a trend again.
My biggest complaint was the pacing of the film. It was by no means a boring movie at any point. It’s just that there was a lot of talking, character establishment, and backstory early on with little action. Then when the fighting began it felt like it was a 45 minute action scene. This even when done well is still a bit overwhelming and a bit Michael Bay-ish. It just went on a little too long. So, the tone kind of goes from a drama to an action movie quickly.
All in all, Man of Steel hits all the right notes. The story is solid and the acting as well. The visual effects are spectacular. This movie has breathed new life in to the Superman movie franchise that was seemingly killed by the Doomsday that was Superman Returns. I’m letting this film fly away with 4 out of 5 mainly due to the pacing and exhausting ending. But, I see the sequel you know is to follow, being a better offering as they will perfect an already good formula.

Streaming
A Riveting Rural Whodunit Rooted in Tradition Movie

Genre: Crime Thriller / Mystery
Run Time: Approximately 123 minutes
Studio: SRT Entertainments
Where to Watch: Streaming now on Aha (Telugu OTT platform)
Director: Ashok Teja
Writer: Sampath Nandi
Lead Cast: Hebah Patel, Vasishta N. Simha, Sai Ronak, Poojitha Ponnada, and George Maryan
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Odela is a gripping Telugu-language crime thriller that weaves the mysticism of rural India with the suspense of a murder mystery. Based on true events, the film is set in the culturally rich village of Odela, where a series of brutal murders shakes the community. When fear takes over, the villagers believe the killings are the work of a supernatural force, but a determined young trainee IPS officer decides to uncover the truth.
Ashok Teja makes a confident directorial debut, and with the support of seasoned writer Sampath Nandi, the film blends folklore and investigative elements seamlessly. The narrative doesn’t rely on jump scares or gore but rather on tension, cultural realism, and atmosphere, making it stand apart from typical crime thrillers.
Vasishta N. Simha delivers a strong and brooding performance as the local suspect whose silence hides secrets. Hebah Patel brings depth and credibility to her role as the determined officer, breaking stereotypes of female leads in regional thrillers. Sai Ronak and George Maryan round out the cast with solid support, while Poojitha Ponnada adds emotional texture to the story.
The cinematography captures the beauty and eeriness of the village setting, while the score subtly enhances the suspense. What truly stands out is the film’s effort to incorporate the Odela temple culture and beliefs into its storyline, making the mystery feel both grounded and unique.
Unique Setting: Odela village and its spiritual legacy are treated with respect, giving the film a haunting authenticity.
Strong Female Lead: Hebah Patel’s character is refreshingly written and well-acted.
Tight Storytelling: No unnecessary detours or filler content; the movie maintains its pace and tension throughout.
Cultural Depth: Balances folklore and realism without leaning too heavily on superstition.
Rating: 8/10
Odela is a tightly woven, atmospheric thriller that doesn’t rely on spectacle but rather storytelling and culture. It’s a solid step forward for Telugu cinema in the crime-thriller space and worth a watch for fans of mystery films that respect both narrative and regional authenticity.
Streaming
VidaayMuyarchi

“Vidaamuyarchi,” now streaming on Netflix, is a 2025 Indian Tamil-language action thriller directed and written by Magizh Thirumeni. Produced by Subaskaran Allirajah under Lyca Productions, the film boasts a runtime of 150 minutes. The narrative follows Arjun (Ajith Kumar) on a relentless quest to rescue his wife Kayal (Trisha Krishnan) after she is abducted by a mysterious group in Azerbaijan. The ensemble cast includes Arjun Sarja, Regina Cassandra, and Arav in pivotal roles.
Drawing inspiration from the 1997 American film “Breakdown,” “Vidaamuyarchi” offers a familiar storyline but is elevated by compelling performances. Ajith Kumar delivers a commendable portrayal of a husband battling against time and adversities, while Trisha Krishnan effectively captures the emotional depth of her character. The film’s cinematography by Om Prakash enhances the tension and atmosphere, and Anirudh Ravichander’s music complements the narrative’s intensity.
However, the film’s predictability and pacing issues may deter some viewers. Despite these shortcomings, “Vidaamuyarchi” provides an engaging experience for fans of the action thriller genre.
Rating: 6.5/10
Movie
Justice has a new Daddy. Watch the new trailer for NakedGun,

Only one man has the particular set of skills… to lead Police Squad and save the world! Lt. Frank Drebin Jr. (Liam Neeson) follows in his father’s footsteps in THE NAKED GUN, directed by Akiva Schaffer (Saturday Night Live, Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping) and from producer Seth MacFarlane (Ted, Family Guy). Joining the cast are Pamela Anderson, Paul Walter Hauser, CCH Pounder, Kevin Durand, Cody Rhodes, Liza Koshy, Eddie Yu, with Danny Huston.
only in theatres August 1st.