Happy Diwali! - A very different Diwali

How was this Diwali different from the others?

• I did not shop at all. (If thats not simply shocking - you do not know me at all. Seriously!! A nice opportunity to shop also came up but I managed to side-step it).
• I did not buy shoes. (Even when an aboslutely tempting one sat right there - begging me to buy it.  I may buy it next week, I am sure :D)
• Did not burst a single cracker. (I do not usually -- but I am around when ppl burst crackers.  This time, it happened during the small time interval when I was not around.)
• Did not gorge on sweets and savouries as I usually do. (So so tough)
• My Diwali dress was not ready in time for Diwali (I will get it this week -- Talk of the busy tailor - thats him for sure).
• Did not visit my in-laws. (Shocking!! I was so caught-up with my relatives, I simply had no energy to visit anyone after coming back each day)
• Received some amazing news from my sis in the US (Yes, she is engaged.)
• We watched a movie (Argo - yet to write that review - be patient, you guys). 
• We visited Innovative Fim City (Most of the clan with the expected drop-outs.) 

So, how was your Diwali? Write in so we can share notes :)

Skyfall -- Movie Review

The Arien was not ready to listen to any excuses - he told me I could join him or he would go alone to this movie. What he did not know was that I was definitely not planning on missing this one :) I was reasonably thrilled at the prospect of catching my first ever Bond movie in the theatre. It was quite ironic then that this movie was quite unlike the usual Bond movies. What do I mean?

• There was exactly 1 big stunt right at the beginning of the movie which actually reminded me of the Bourne series. (It was a fantastic stunt btw).
• Not too many funky gadgets or women walking around in skimpy wear. (Was expecting my eyes to pop - sadly did not happen)
• Scenes where Bond is shown as a man with very human vulnerabilities, can be unfit at times, cannot always shoot perfectly (this was soo unexpected)

I actually quite liked the movie. Maybe it was because of the missing Bond stuff. It had an emotional quotient which made Bond more likeable. The Arien on the other hand was not too impressed - he whispered "This movie will go on record for being the lowest budget bond movie".  But, he liked the movie. In fact, he mentioned that Bond is always shown to be 100% fit, cannot miss a shot, etc. but he is never shown going to the Gym or working out. He added that this movie makes Bond believable because otherwise he would be robocop!

This pic is from his bike stunt that was simply fantastic.

Image Courtesy: http://wegotthiscovered.com/movies/skyfall-trailer-2-sneak-peek/

While the movie was not quite what we expected it was pretty good nevertheless. Catch it!

 

English Vinglish -- Movie Review

When our trip to Chennai got cancelled due to the Nilam cyclone, we decided to catch English Vinglish at home. Too many ppl had given a beeg Thumbs Up for the movie for us to ignore the movie. Most ppl gushed 'bout the movie, Sri's performance, the story etc etc.


A stay-at-home wife, Sridevi, has a small home-run business making ladoos and sweets. The folks who buy her sweets sing her praises but her family, especially her hubby and daughter do not appreciate her or her efforts. Her son loves her unconditionally and her mother-in-law is quite supportive. When she is invited to her niece's wedding in the US, her husband asks her to go a month in advance to hep her sister while the rest of the family will join her close to the date of the wedding. While this makes Sridevi very uncomfortable, she goes ahead. After the initial gup-shup she feels a little left out and wonders how she will manage till her family joins her. After a particularly embarrassing episode at a road-side cafe that reduces her to tears, she opts to take up English classes without letting anyone know. The class helps her pick up English and builds confidence. With her simple, understanding, and sweet nature, she becomes quite popular in her class. The movie ends on a nice note.

The story is simple and touches your heart. Sridevi was not sridevi but the stay-at-home, unappreciated woman, Shashi. And you sympathise with and root for Shashi/Sridevi as she drives home her message of equality and respect without theatrics or melodrama.

While I would like to say Sridevi looks good for her age, I also thought she looked very plasticy in some angles. Her nose may not survive any more surgeries - her nose reminded me of Michael Jackson's nose and I wish she had left her nose as is.

A nice movie to watch on a lazy Thursday afternoon while having yummy lunch at home.

Looper -- Movie Review

After a loong time, we caught a movie at the theatre. Surprisingly both of us wanted to watch the movie. Usually, only one of us wants to watch the movie and the other kinda puts up with the movie :P There were only two shows (12:30 pm and 7:30 pm) and the Arien opted for the 7:30 show.

The movie is set in 2044, where the main character, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, known to the TV buffs from the television series 3rd Rock from the Sun, and more recently from The Dark Knight Rises and Inception, earns his living working as a looper. A looper's job is very similar to a contract killer only his victims are from the future (30 years in the future). Time travel was invented but outlawed and so when the mob wants to get rid of someone, the person is sent 30 years in the past, to a looper whose job is to kill him. Loopers are a happy lot, earn quite a bit, and lead a good life compared to the others until they realize that someone in the future has decided to close the loop by sending the looper's future version to the looper to kill. The money for the killing is attached to the back of the victim, usually silver blocks. When the victim has gold blocks, it is a sign that the looper's future version has been killed by the looper, thereby closing the loop. Bruce Willis plays Joseph's older-by-30 version and does not let himself be shot by Joseph. This is not new, Joseph's friend, another looper, does the same and meets a horrific end, thanks to Joseph. Bruce Willis wants answers that he hopes to get here, in his past. He does not like his young self too much, considers him too self-obsessed. What happens next?

There is no amazing suspense nor are you left wondering whodunit? However, you want to know what is going to happen next and that makes this movie interesting.

Bruce has done a good job as he is known to do. Emily Blunt, the secretary from The Devil Wears Prada is good as well. The story moves well in the able hands of Joseph and while you are shocked at some of his actions, you feel happy that he will  care for a woman, his wife, more than he cares for himself -sometime in the future though it is not evident now (a short flashback from Bruce Willis).  

Joseph looks a lot different - I think they added some prosthetics to make him look more like Bruce - not sure. It doesn't really work - you only wonder if he had a bad botox job or bad face-lift. At least, I did. I was actually not a 100% sure if he was who I thought he was. All b'cos of the prosthetics. Here is a pic of the actor from the movie. You can judge for yourself. 

Image Courtesy:  http://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2012/10/looper.html

Watch it wen you can - I liked it.

My colorful salad -- Wordless Wednesdays

Baked Onion Pakoda Snack -- An attempt at Eating Healthy

I have been reading ( a lot, according to the Arien), but I am yet to update the blog with my book reviews. Don't hold your breath - I probably will not be updating the blog with those reviews :) Finding time to read the books consumes all my free-time and so writing has taken a back-seat. Anyway, today I am back with a recipe for a baked snack. The Arien has been pushing me towards the whole diet thing but I have always found some way to escape -- not this time and I am glad I was open to the idea.

If you have issues getting out of the fried snacks mode, this recipe may help you. What you will need:

• Convection microwave or oven, baking tray
• Besan, 1 cup 
• 1 onion, chopped fine
• Corriander leaves, finely chopped
• 1 green chilli, finely chopped
• Red chilli powder, 1/2 tsp
• 3/4 tsp baking powder or 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 2 tbsp melted butter, or oil, and salt as required
• Aluminium foil

How to:

Mix besan, onion, chilli, corriander, baking powder, salt and a little water to make a thick batter. Add the oil to the batter and ensure the oil is spread evenly on the batter. (You can also add oil initially but I prefer to do it in the end). Pre-heat the oven at 400 F. Add aluminium foil to the baking tray and grease it with a lil butter. Take small portions of the batter, arrange them on the tray in a manner that they do not mix. Add the tray to the oven and bake for 20 mts. 

You can turn the pakodas over in between so that they do not turn dark brown on only one side. However, if you have not greased the aluminium foil, this may be a difficult task. 

They will not taste like the fried onion pakodas but you are eating healthy and also satisfying a craving for the pakoda! If your portions are big, you may feel that the pakoda is not cooked -- so look at creating smaller portions so that they are completely cooked. 

The pic on the left shows you how mine turned out :) Happy cooking you all!!  Try it and let me know how you like it.

Wordless Wednesdays -- Won the Kimberley Griffiths Little Giveaway!

The Help -- Movie Review

This was on the list of movies that I wanted to catch during the Oscar frenzy phase in March. Knowing that the Arien will not be interested in watching this movie, I saw it while he was away on his Himalayan Odyssey.

The movie is set in the early 1960s in Mississippi. A young white woman, Skeeter, returns home after graduating from the Mississippi university to find most of her friends are married (happily or otherwise) and her maid Constantine has left. The movie is set at a time when racism was rampant and the black maids were treated abominably. Skeeter is embarrassed to see her friends treat their maids with disrespect and scant regard. Most of these maids had started work years ago as a nanny and inspite of the role they played in bringing the kids up, the kids grow up and treat their nanny (now maid) very badly. Skeeter decides to write a book from the maid's point of view but none of the maids are willing or interested and are in fact scared about the consequences of sharing their thoughts about their employer with another white woman. This changes and Skeeter compiles the opinions of two maids, Aibileen and Minny. Skeeter mails the copy to an editor who tells her to get a few more stories, a dozen or so, and then she could think of publishing it. As the racial tension increases, more maids are willing to share their stories. As Skeeter compiles the stories, she finally asks her mother about Constanine and is shocked to hear the truth and decides to include it in her book.

Watch it during a lazy afternoon or evening. While the movie does not make you weep a dozen tears, or make you laugh uncontrollably, it is a well-woven together movie and Aibileen, Minny, and Skeeter are great.

Minny (Octavia Spencer) won the oscar for the best supporting actress. Aibileen (Viola Davis) deserved the best actress award but it went to Meryl Streep for her performance in the Iron Lady.

Image Courtesy: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1679960/oscars-2012-octavia-spencer-best-supporting-actress-win.jhtml

Catch it and let me know what you think :)

Wordless Wednesday -- Another Conqueror

Wordless Wednesday -- The Conqueror

Life Expectancy -- Dean Koontz

What are the odds? I think in my entire blogging history, this year has the most number of book reviews and we still have ~ 6 months left. I realize that because the Arien is away, having fun at the Himalayan Odyssey,  I am reading a lot of books. Maybe he should do this every year so I can make some time for my books (ghahahaha!!)

Kidding aside, I mostly like to re-read Agatha Christie, Michael Connelly, and sometimes, yes sometimes, I pick up Dean Koontz. I read The Darkest Evening of the Year last month but I have not blogged about it. This time I have decided to blog about every book I read (ok almost every book).

Life Expectancy has a nice note to it, some baking delights, some humour, and of course Dean Koontz's dollop of suspense. In my head, the book was written by a pleasantly plump, charming young baker and not Dean Koontz. The book starts with the birth of the pleasantly plump, charming baker, Jimmy Tock. In other aspects, it is a typical old hindi movie. On the stormy night when Jimmy Tock is born, his grandpa is hospitalized. Granpa Tock wakes up from his coma and predicts the birth of Jimmy Tock and 5 days when Jimmy should be very careful, cautious. He asks Jimmy's father, Rudy, to note the dates. Rudy writes down the dates on a free pass, received from his friend, to the circus in town. After sharing the dates, grandpa Tock dies and before Rudy can react, he receives information that his son has been born. At the same time, Konrad Beezo, a clown at the circus in town is also waiting for his wife to deliver their child. Rudy watches Konrad go crazy with grief when he finds out that his wife is dead but his son is alive. Konrad shoots the doctor, the delivery nurse, while claiming that the death of his wife was part of some huge conspiracy. Rudy is aghast at the spectacle in front of him and buys time by agreeing with Beezo and informs him that the rest of his enemies have fled the scene. Beezo is flattered and thanks Rudy, promises never to forget him and leaves with his son. What happens on those five days? Does Beezo come back into their life?

Interesting? You bet it was. I also found out that Life Expectancy is among the top 10 books of Dean Koontz. I have not read a lot of his books to share an opinion but I thought this book was a lot better.

Wordless Wednesday -- Arien starting off on his Himalayan Odyssey

Inkspell by Cornelia Funke -- Book Review

The second book starts off in a very interesting manner -- finding of another silver tongue who had the ability to transport DustFinger and Farid back to Inkworld. Farid does not trust the new silver tongue and he is shocked to realize that he is right when Dustfinger vanishes off the face of the earth while he, Farid is left behind. Farid also realizes that the silvertongue works for Basta and Mortola. Basta wants to avenge his master's death. Farid manages to escape and runs to the original silver tongue, Mortimer or Mo. Mo, Resa, Eleanor, and Meggie are settling down into their own lives. Darius, the other silver tongue, who was last seen in Capricon's court also lives with them. Meggie is unable to forget Inkworld and spends a lot of time asking Resa to re-tell stories from her 10 years at InkWorld. Mo does not like this obsession for a place he considers evil and hurtful.

Farid lands up around this time and convinces Meggie to read him into Inkworld. Meggie plans to accompany him so she can see the Inkworld for herself. She leaves a note and just as everone is re-conciling themselves to the news -- Basta, Mortola, Orpheus (the other silver tongue), and a body guard of sorts land up at Eleanor's house and take them prisoners. Basta orders Mo to read him and Mortola back to InkWorld. Resa clings to Mo and is transported to InkWorld with Mo, Basta, and Mortola. When Mortola realizes that Capricon is dead in InkWorld as well, she shoots Mo fatally, with a gun she brought with her. Resa tends to Mo as Mortola leaves the place.

The story introduces a number of characters in this book. Dustfinger meets his wife Roxanne, his daughter Brianna. He also meets the cloud dancer and other motley folk. He watches his rival sootbird, who still fears fire. He also meets the black prince. It was as interesting as the first book. I got so involved in the story that I was having dreams of InkWorld. That has not happened since I was a kid!

Enjoyed the book.  

Royal Enfield Himalayan Odyssey 2012

From a really loong time now, even before he purchased the phatphatiya, the Arien has been wanting to go on the Himalayan Odyssey. Every year, since puchasing his bullet, he would plan, re-plan, and then drop it. Guess 2012 was the year when he would go.

As soon as it was possible for him to register, he did. When his name came up among the list of participants -- we whooped!! Then came the frenzied preparations. Saddle bags, knee pads, poncho, water-resistant shoes, new lens, etc etc. And before we knew, I was seeing him off at the airport. He was all excited, tense, very very happy, and planned on enjoying every bit of the wonderful ride.

This year marks the 9th year of the Royal Enfield Himalayan Odyssey. He has been calling every day but there may be no network coverage after today. He has also managed to update his FB status!!!

I hope and wish the Arien has a safe trip and enjoys this adventure to the fullest since it has been his long charished dream.

.. and the Arien was off to Delhi

I hate goodbyes in public places and so I opt to say my bye-byes at home rather than at the railway station or airport. I rarely alter this behavior and so when I decided to accompany the arien to the Airport, I think the arien could not believe his ears. After reminding me that I have to get up at 5 am if I planned on accompanying him, he said "Great! I am so glad you are!"

When the arien woke me up at 5 am, I wished I could abandon the plan. Of course, I did not do so. Because the arien gets maha tense on the day of the travel except when he is driving, I thought we should opt to travel to the airport by the volvo bus. We took an auto from our home to the K R Puram Railway station bus-stop (isn't tht the funniest?) and reached in less than 10 mts. And then we waited n waited n waited for the airport-bound volvo bus to turn up. It was a solid 45 mts after we got off the auto when I saw the volvo bus drive past us. I franctically signalled to the driver to stop and as he sped past, I waved to the passengers. The bus did not stop and I was very shocked. Another shock was that the bus was bright green in color. Both of us were on a lookout for the red bus! As I realized that the impossible had jes happened, I noticed that the arien had not even seen the bus or my funny actions!! I signalled that we had jes missed the bus and pointed in the direction of the bus.

And then I saw that the bus had stopped at a distance. I ran pell-mell and as soon as the door opened asked the driver why he had not stopped at the bus-stop. He replied angrily that the airport bus stops at specific locations (a few meters away from the regular bus-stop). "Sorry" was my response as I ran back to help the Arien carry the bags. By then, the Arien was so tense, he yelled that I should get into the bus instead of helping him!! As soon as we got in, the conductor insisted we sit immediately. The arien lost his cool and yelled that if I do not sit, the conductor may not give us tickets. (It is absolutely hilarious when I recall it now -- at tht time, I was ready to punch the arien -- I mean it!!) We spent a tense, unfriendly 10 mts sitting in the back seat of the bus while we ignored each other. The arien apologized and added that he was tense that he would miss the flight. I was not planning on letting him off easy but I dropped it. I know he gets tense when he is late.

The arien asked me to wait while he checked-in. As I stood eyeing the nearby cafe that was serving breakfast and planning the rest of the day, I saw Sarath Kumar, the tamizh actor, at the airport. He was wearing a black jogging suit and looked quite good, considering he must be in his late 50s. He is supposedly a fanatic when it comes to fitness, a former Mr. Madras, and it shows. He gave me a superstar smile which I reciprocated. I then quickly called the arien with the news. The arien said "Oh!! Really? Ok. I have checked-in -- paid extra for the extra baggage -- will call you wen I reach Delhi - ok bye". I walked to the cafe and had pongal to celebrate waking up early to see the arien off and managing to see a celebrity :D

Another Book Review -- Inkheart by Cornelia Funke

Unbelievable -- right? I thought so too. I thought after the 3 book reviews, I would slip back to the world of movies - but nope tht did not happen. Why? I blame Cornelia Funke. The premise of InkHeart was very unique and so interesting that I hoped the book lived up to it. It was all that and more. It was a well-written story and I could not put the book down. I had read it a while ago and forgot to blog about it (I know -- so rare). When I got my hands on the second and third part of the trilogy, I went ahead and re-read it.

The author expresses herself very well as Meggie. Meggie, her curiousity, her stubborness, her love for her dad, her rebellious nature, her to-die-for interest in books, all remind me of myself when I was Meggie's age. This book is a treat -- it reminds me of the days before TV was the guest of honour at home. The book should be reserved for rainy days when you can plonk yourself on a nice window seat with cushions and a razai. Lets add a nice cuppa chai, some snacks (naturally) and Enid Blyton or Agatha Christie Cornelia Funke for company. I think that would be just perfect.

While the idea of a book-crazy aunt was pretty neat, book-crazy ppl are not the type who will ever set out on an adventure though they will wish for it with all their might. While she plays pretty true to type initially, cribbing with all her might about the inconveniance, she gradually likes the adventure which is not so easy to believe. Mo is almost every lil gal's dad - his character was also well-etched. Dustfinger, the friend turned foe turned friend again, was believable. 

I loved the quotes that start each chapter, I liked the reference to the selfish giant, (a lesson I recall from my school days), I liked, I liked, I liked :)

I am looking forward to reading the other two parts -- I am not sure how she can surpass this book - but wait n watch for my review -- I am re-reading it almost after a year.

On another note, saw Ishqya finally. Vidya Balan was great in this movie as well. Naseeruddin Shah is superb as usual. Arshad Warsi is equally good. Vidya Balan looks quite slim unlike her recent self in The Dirty Picture and Kahani. Not blogging the movie review. But, the movie clearly showcases the saying that script is king. It also showed that good actors are very crucial for a good script to attain SUPER-HIT status.

National Bandh Day

Today was the day of the National bandh. Both the Arien and self opted to work from home. After a few minutes, the Arien brought the silence to my notice. The silence was deafening. Usually, there is a lot of traffic noise all around - horns blaring, brakes squealing, autos honking, people yelling, hawkers selling their wares - it is a regular noisathon! All that was Gaayab - Gone!

I actually managed to make out the sound of a bird chirping which can be heard only early in the morning. I think the bird was probably frightened at the absolute lack of noise. My neighbour took his chuntu dog out for a walk at 2 pm. The time was odd and the Arien made a nasty comment that had us both giggling like goofballs :) Sometimes, one can be so mean :(

The senior Arien also did not go to work today and slept the morning away, happily. I am all for the Bandh for the enormous sense of peace - artificial, of course - that it created today. Am I being the nasty one, now?

How was your day?

Mockingjay -- Book Review

Finished it - finally!! After days of suspense, was happy to see the story end the way it did. There were a few nail-biting elements, a few ohcomeon moments, and a few Egad! moments. While I did not expect the casualty list to be that high - well, who are we kidding - this was a War - so, I guess it was to be expected.

Gale Image Courtesy: http://www.realbeauty.com/makeup/hunger-games-inspired-beauty-gale-hawthorne#slide-9

I wondered who Katniss would ultimately chose, Gale or Peeta.  I also wondered how the series would end as I read Mockingjay. In this book, Katniss is now in District 13 and Peeta has been captured by the Capitol. Katniss spends a lot of time recovering and is unable to shake off the guilt 'bout Peeta's capture. She finds District 13, a very dark, desolate place to live in even though she has her mother, Prim, and Gale for company. After a broadcast from President Snow and Peeta, Katniss agrees to be the mockingjay. 

There are some moments of self-realization, when Katniss creates a game for Buttercup which has been written very well. Some of her asides are so fundamentally Katniss that instead of saying "Uff - will you stop doing that?" you enjoy them.

The scene where she is unable to shoot one of the District 2 members as he falls off the train is again oh-so-Katniss. She runs to save him but is shocked to notice that he has a gun trained on her - albeit with a shaking hand. After a few words, both of them decide not to shoot each other. However, a sniper shoots Katniss and that scene is watched by everyone including Katniss on national television, later.

Katniss Image Courtesy: http://www.deeranddeerhunting.com/featured/the-hunger-games-bulls-eye-or-dud

I liked the book. I probably liked Katniss the character. She did not feel like a caricature and was quite real. In a moment of brutal honesty, both Gale and Peeta share that her choice would not be based on how much she loves him or how she cannot live without him but more on whom she cannot live or survive without. Katniss is shocked at their very accurate analysis and promptly forgets about it in the morning.

She is a major contrast to Twilight's Bella who forever is so surprised that someone like Edward can fall in love with her. I like Edward's character very much though and Peeta seems more like Edward whereas Gale is a lot like Jacob. Totally understandable that most folks consider Peeta a very goody-goody boy, a wimp even (so unfair) and Gale to be THE guy.

Peeta Image Courtesy:http://hungergamessingapore.wordpress.com/tag/magazine/ 

If I had to guess the sun sign of Katniss, it would be Leo or Aries. The fire element in the character adds to the co-incidence. A fire sign is a natural fire-brand, an independent worker, and a great ally to have in a game, or in a war :) Peeta must be a water sign -- Cancer or Pisces. Gale, I am guessing is another fire sign, Aries or Leo. What do you think? If I had to choose based on the pics of the actors, Gale wins Hands-Down :D I am so mean :P Peeta looks so good-looking, nice, and Gale looks wild, uncontrollable, and absolutely drool-worthy. I sound like a teen -- Egad!! This is what happens when one reads too many young adult novels :) I enjoyed it - Read the series in order when you have the time.

Catching Fire -- Book Review

**Spoiler Alert--If you have not read The Hungry Games, I may unknowingly reveal some of the suspense in this review**

After successfully winning The Hunger Games, both Katniss and Peeta return to District 12, to a Hero's welcome. Katniss is happy that she is still alive and hopes she and Gale can get back to being normal -- easier said than done. They move out of their old home and move into one of the victor's cottage. Haymitch and Peetha live in the other cottages, separately. Gale has started working in the mines and so Katniss hardly sees him and is unsure what she can say to make things ok between them. They finally meet one day in their forest. President Snow makes an appearance and informs her that he knows about the kiss that she shared with Gale and she better make her love story with Peeta look convincing. President Snow is intent on seeing the marriage between Peeta and Katniss happen. This book introduces a number of secondary characters. It starts with the victory parade as the victors of the 74th Hunger Games, Peeta and Katniss, tour the districts. Katniss realizes that most people view her the person who will help them rebel against the Capitol - the mockingjay. All she wants is to keep her family, Gale, and Peeta safe which seems very selfish to her. This is followed by a series of activities that are part of the wedding preparations to mollify President Snow. Katniss sleepwalks through it all.

Just when you are convinced that that is where the story is headed - the writer throws in a twist of gigantic propotions. President Snow is not likely to forgive Katniss and Peeta for embarrassing the Capitol at the Hunger Games and so at the 75th Hunger Games (Quarter Quell) a huge surprise awaits them.

The book is just as interesting as the first and while I was so sure the author was headed the twilight way with the wedding, I was happy that it did not go that way at all. As you reach the end of the book, you gasp and want to kill the author. Seriously. You cannot believe your eyes and you realize you must read the next book to know what happens next. I was so glad I had the third book with me. Katniss seems very believable. 

The Hunger Games -- Book Review

The Arien spoke 'bout the Hunger Games movie a while ago but I was not interested then. Two weekends ago, when I was browsing the library for a book, I opted to re-read one of my ole favorites Atlas Shrugged and also picked up The Hunger Games.

Dare I say anything 'bout Atlas Shrugged? Naaah. This review is about the other women writer, Suzanne Collins.

The book is based in the future, in Panem, a place that was North America. The narrator is Katniss Everdeen, who lives in District 12, the district of the coal mines. All the districts live in near poverty, ruled over by the Capitol. Several years ago, District 13 rebelled against the Capitol and was razed to the ground. To prevent other such uprisings, the Capitol comes up with the Hunger Games. 2 participants (1 male and 1 female), between the age group of 12-18, from each district are selected via a lottery to participate in the Hunger Games every year. The participants are placed in an artificial arena and to win they have to kill off the others. While I can understand that that may not be something appropriate for the young adult -- I did not find the book offensive.

Image Courtesy: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Hunger_Games

Katniss shares information in a very likeable manner -- she shares that she is unsure of her feelings for Gale, her friend of many years. She shares that she is indebted to Peeta when during a really rough winter, Katniss's family was almost dying of starvation, Peeta burns two loaves of bread and throws it out to her amidst his mother's hysterical cries over the burnt bread. Katniss's life changes forever when her sister's name, Prim, is pulled out of the lottery. She immediately offers her name instead. And thus Katniss is pulled into a rollercoaster ride. The other participant is Peeta. While you are sure that Katniss will naturally win, because she is the narrator - the author manages to maintain the suspense. The story couples a triangle love story (Gale-Katniss-Peeta) in a dangerous reality show where you may lose your life. I flipped out for this book. I was reading it late into the night -- and the moment I finished the book, I really wanted to read the other two.

Finally, after a looong time, I am back to reading :)

Vicky Donor -- Funny Take on a Serious Topic

Saw the trailer and found it too hilarious! Was not too sure if the Arien will agree to watching a Hindi movie over the weekend especially wen Avengers was also running in the theatres but he decided to catch Vicky Donor with me on Sunday at 5:30.

The first half was absolutely hilarious. Ayushman, the MTV VJ, was a great choice and did a fantastic job. If I had to compare his performance with any other male debutant, it wud be Ranveer Singh (Baand Baaja Bhaaraat). The performance was effortless and believable. Yami Gupta, the Fair and Lovely girl, was quite real - pretty and very slim. The mother and grandmother of Ayushman were absolutely fantastic. The first half of the movie moves at a good pace, was funny, and at no point boring. The seond half was a bit of a let down with the script taking the road always taken in Hindi cinema. The movie ends in typical Hindi movie ishtyle and providing an easy solution.

The bengoli and punjabi aapas mein hate-hate was handled well. The mother and grandmother love-hate relationship was also well handled. Some dialogues and scenes were superlative. By not making a blade session out of typical rhona-dhona scenarios - the movie kept the audience enthralled. The other movie-goers enjoyed the movie completely as it was impossible to fake those laughs. Some of the punju stuff went a bit over the top -- we wished we had a translator arnd - but did not feel we missed much.

The only failing with the script, if that is what it is, was that they did not follow the story to its possibly arbid ending - they instead chose to end on a filmy note. If they had taken the risk, the movie would have achieved a beeg Thumbs-Up and possible cult-status. Anyway, it is a movie that had the guts to showcase a very serious topic in a manner that was not a documentary or an emotional atyachaar. The movie was a very in your face, adult comedy tht was not crass and served with dollops of humour and supported by very good supporting actors!

If you didn't already know, John Abraham not only does an item number in this movie but is also the producer. He is jes not a good-looking dude - he is a gutsy dude. Kudos to John Abraham and Shoojit Sircar.

Paan Singh Tomar -- Movie Review

A movie that did not set expectations -- no glam-sham -- no item numbers -- no cameos from super stars -- would it work? Work it did. A nice movie -- an excellent performance from Irfan Khan -- it worked almost as if it was a Vidya Balan movie :D

Irfan Khan as Paan Singh Tomar.

Image Courtesy: http://unboxedwriters.com/2012/03/paan-singh-tomar-guts-and-glory/run/

Its a simple, true story of how an unsung national athelete, who was in the Army, becomes a dreaded dacoit. Paan Singh's child-like innocence, his naivety was like a breath of fresh air. You may wonder how a dacoit can be naive or innocent - but Paan Singh (Irfan) just wanted answers for his questions. Why did his daddu (elder brother/cousin) take the produce from his (Paan Singh's) fields? Why, when he (Paan) questioned this, did daddu get angry and threaten to shoot him and his family? Why did the policeman not take his complaint seriously? Why did daddu kill his mother and beat his son to an inch of his life?

A lot of questions and no answers. The real Paan Singh Tomar.

Image Courtesy: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paan_Singh_Tomar

The story is compelling but Irfan's performance makes it even more so. A well-told story that keeps you engrossed. Watch it when you have the time.

Kahani -- Movie Review

This was a movie I was not interested in, initially. This was largely because I had watched The Dirty Picture a few weeks ago and I could not believe Vidya could top tht. I had had major doubts 'bout Vidya donning the role of an uninhibited seductress (Silk Smita). Vidya was simply superb in that movie. I think everyone was surprised at her potrayal and her performance deserved all the accolades she received. Usually, after a power-packed performance in one movie, the actor does not give their all for the next. So, I was not expecting much.

The idea of a pregnant lady (Vidya) searching for her missing husband was intriguing but I somehow thought we would all troop in with high expectations and then think "Why Why Why -- why did I have to waste my weekend watching this movie of all movies?" I thought the Arien shared this view and so was quite surprised when the Arien said we were watching it over the weekend.


Image Courtesy:http://in.movies.yahoo.com/photos/

The movie was fast-paced, gripping, and demanded all your attention. Unlike most movies where they blade you with the over-indulgent flashbacks, this movie did a good job of the editing. Kolkata was noisy, colourful, dirty, and beautiful at the same time. It was enjoyable and Vidya has done it again - Fantastic! I felt guilty for writing her off as an actor who may not have given her all for the next project. She has carried the movie on her slender shoulders. She received good support from the inspector, who assisted her in her quest. The actor's name is Parambrata Chatterjee, a bengoli.

Watch it!!

Image Courtesy: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/features/article2973946.ece

The Drop -- Michael Connelly

During the second visit to the library, I picked up two books written by Michael Connelly - The Poet, and The Scarecrow. Both of them had Jack McEvoy as the main character. I liked The Poet more than The Scarecrow but I missed Harry Bosch a helluva lot. So, I was real glad that Michael Connelly's The Drop was available online.

Reading this book after Nine Dragons (Did not much like) and The Reversal (Liked), I was looking forward to this book. It brings Irvin Irving back into Bosch's life. Harry is assigned to the Open-Unsolved unit, and works with David Chu. At the express request of Irvin Irving, Harry and Chu are assigned a high jingo case which involves Irvin Irving. Meanwhile, Harry and Chu are also working on the cold case, that they were assigned to before the high jingo case. The two cases do not overlap and the author does a great job of giving the two cases equal importance. The book also showcases the relationship between Harry and his daughter, Maddie. Doesn't get all lovey-dovey and I am really thankful for tht.

Liked the book. However, the idea that Harry could lose his edge is scary. I remember reading the case where Harry and Terry Caleb investigate a case. You instinctively appreciate the edge tht Harry has which Terry did not - having left the police force a while ago. The fact that Harry could lose his edge is painful. Here is hoping thts not where Michael Connelly is going with his other books. Enjoy Harry Bosch too much for tht. Read it and let me know what you think.

A Thousand Splendid Suns -- A book review?

Its hardly fair to the author if I start my book review with "Do not read this book .." but thts exactly how I felt. I have never felt so depressed or drained of all positive energy as I was after I read this book. I am by nature a bit emotional and sensitive, but I did not expect to find myself crying after reading the first few pages. In fact, the unraveling of the relationship between Jalil and Miriam was like a punch in the stomach.

In most stories, there is a lot of hype about a particular scenario and you know for sure that that will soon hit rock bottom. Its more like a Tell. Its like how you know someone is lying. For instance, when the person rubs their nose or when they do not look at you while telling the lie. Authors also have a Tell. They hype-up the scenario into something too huge and almost too good. You know the main character is having all their hopes riding on this one thing - the idea, job, relationship, person, etc. and you know they will not get it.

However, in this story, the author makes you feel sorry for Miriam and the relationship she shares with her mother, and you are lulled into hoping the relationship with the father, Jalil, would somehow make things ok. And thats why when it unravelled, I felt like I had been punched. It was actually a double Tell. Grr..

I know I am talking in riddles. You'll understand wen you read the book. I think I should say If you read the book. At this point, I would like to say that there is no doubt tht the author is a fantastic writer, and extremely talented. Inspite of the punch, I felt compelled to read on. Maybe I needed to know if Miriam would ever be happy. For a reader like me, who keeps an eye out for the Tell, he lulled me and my eye before he punched me - quite a few times, I must say. Having said that, I must state that it is not a book for the faint-hearted or for the ppl who are looking for something light to read to pass the time. If you have read "The Kite Runner" and feel you can manage another book by the same author - go ahead and try it.

I Heart Masala Oats

I share a blaaah relationship with health food. At the insistence of the Arien, I tried Kellogs for breakfast and ended up crying. Ya, really! Amidst tears, I informed the Arien that I could probably avoid having breakfast in a bid to lose the extra kgs but please do not ask me to have these corn flakes. The Arien, zapped by my sudden tears, told me to forget about corn flakes. He is very sweet that way. And there ended my sooper short relationship with health food.

I figured out later that I probably could not abide having something sweet for breakfast. Having something moderately spicy or even slighly bland was perfect for the morning ka khaana. Our typical south indian breakfast options such as: Idly, Dosa, Avalakki (Poha), Upma, Semiya, and Rava idli were perfectly suited for that, I thought. Also, I was 200 % sure that cornflakes, oats, and all tht stuff were just not for me.

All that was history when I was introduced to Saffola Masala Oats by a colleague, who started on Oats recently. Point to be noted - I did not immediately become a fan. First, I heard her out and then did my research. Still, I was a lil apprehensive. I recalled the exact sequence of the Corn flakes fiasco. Over the weekend, purchased the Saffola Masala and Coriander Oats (Pack of 5). Today, plucked up the courage to offer it as breakfast for both of us. The Arien teased me saying that I was offering him paste for breakfast. I worried because he can be merciless in his feedback and really on Friday who wants to hear the unvarnished truth?? :D Was in two minds and then finally yelled - Masala Oats here we come!

Just to be safe, experimented a bit by adding fried onion, tomatoes, capsicum, chillies as well as
seasoning. Yumm!! I lowed it. Fallen for it - hook, line, and sinker. The Arien finished his bowl - surprising. Said it was not bad and then changed it to good. (I fainted).

Anyway, end result - I heart Masala Oats.

I am back

Finally!! I wondered many times last month if I would ever get back to my blog. I'm so glad I did even if only to say jes that.

2012 -- Good, Bad, and the Ugly so far..

• Received sad news in January - loss of a family member that put a pall on all "Hoo Haa Haa Happy New Year" celebration and general good mood.



• Got the first stamp on my passport but the occassion was not celebration-worthy.



• Lost some weight (inches actually) which no one noticed. The Arien naturally does not count :)



• Saw some of the oscar-nominated movies - loved The Descendants, and The Artist. Liked The Girl with the Dragon Tatoo, Puss in Boots, Hugo, Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, and Rango. Yet to see My Week with Marilyn and The Help.



• Gained those lost inches this month :(



• Visited my library after two years -- they had de-activated my account. Borrowed 6 books and scared the Arien. Currently reading Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy.



• Thought I had done my excellent best in terms of work last year. My thoughts were validated but the current market situation hardly helped. I wonder if my performance and the market situation will always run in parallel lines... Hmmm.



• This has been the worst ever summer in Bangalore - cannot believe we still have 2 more months to go :(

Nanban -- Tamizh movie

After watching Madrasapattinam yesterday, if you thought we would not see another movie so soon - you thought wrong! The Arien had booked the movie tickets for Nanban -- the Tamizh remake of 3 Idiots. We both felt that that movie would be a safe bet rather than Rajapattai or Vettai.

Yet again, we went to Cinemax and throughly enjoyed the movie. We also had lunch outside and so it was a totally pleasant experience.

The movie was everything we hoped it would be. The 3 idiots in Tamizh were Vijay, Jeeva, and Srikanth. Vijay has done a good job and thanks to his wiry build, he is quite believable as a college student. Both Srikanth and Jiva are also well-chosen. Srikanth appears quite young without his moustache and is well suited for his role. In fact, for a moment I was not sure who he was.

Image Courtesy: http://www.tamilwire.com/

Ileana looks extraordinarily slim and absolutely stunning. The song sequences are simply to showcase Ileana's slim figure. This is Ileana's second outing after Kedi. Unfortunately, the songs are not impressive except for the Yen Nanban pola yaaru machhaan song which is actually a background song. While the songs are not impressive, Ileana looks very nice.

Image Courtesy: http://www.southdreamz.com/

Sathyaraj, with hair combed over his bald pate, and a lisp, as the Virus is good. Shankar has stayed true to the script and has tweaked the script only in a few places.

I was bored stiff of the pregnancy scene in 3 Idiots - I did not feel that in the Tamizh version. Maybe Vijay did not overdo the "All izz well" part or maybe I was watching it after a loong time. Anyway, it was not as bad.

Nanban is a good, clean movie that is ok to watch with family. The pregnancy scene is a bit much but its manageable.

Madraspattinam -- Tamizh movie

MIL was planning to visit - she had informed us on 1st. It has been a while since she has stayed with us. She has stayed over for a day or two, ~ thrice in a year, but never for two whole weeks since 2 years at least. I was a lil concerned because I have not become a great cook in these years :D But, I needn't have worried, the arien helped out quite a bit and 3 days went past very quickly. Before we knew it, the weekend had arrived. I have always wanted to watch Madrasapattinam. The Arien downloaded it on Friday. We asked my MIL if she had watched the movie. When she said no, we all sat down to that movie after breakfast. I know movies after breakfast was absolutely shocking!! So, we spent a nice, lazy morning having shundal, sweet aval for breakfast as we watched Arya do a la Lagaan.

The story is straightforward - it starts out in 1945 in chennai alias Madrasapattinam before India got its independence. The daughter of the then governor, Amy Wilkinson (Amy Jackson), arrives in Madrasapattinam and is drawn to a Dhobi, Parithi, (Arya) who is also a good wrestler. Amy's wedding is arranged with an official whom she does not like. There are plans to convert the Dhobi Ghaat into a golf link. However, with India getting its Independence and the British asked to leave, things take a turn for the worse for the two young lovers. What happens next? Do the young lovers unite? Does Parithi die? Is Amy killed? You must watch the movie to know 'bout that.

Image Courtesy: http://www.indiaful.com/

Arya looks fantastic and has done a commendable job as the proud Indian who refuses to bow down to the Britishers. Amy Jackson is a sight to behold. Very young but has done a great job. I have heard that she is doing the hindi version of Vinnaithandi Varuvaya with Prateik. There are a number of other characters and they lend good support for the main cast. Some of the scenes are shot really well. There is a nice balance between the present scenes and the flashback scenes. This pic is of an ethnic Tamizh ponnu Amy. Doesn't she look very pretty? My MIL said that she resembles Amala.

Image Courtesy: http://news.sky.com/

Catch the movie if you have not seen it yet. It ends with a montage of how chennai was in the 1940s and earlier and how it looks today. That was a nice touch.

The Camel Club -- David Baldacci

I borrowed this book and the winner from my cousin during my visit to Chennai, in January, last year. I had enjoyed the winner a lot and so was looking forward to reading this book but somehow the first 20 pages failed to hold my attention and I kept it aside. Last year, in December, I finally took up the challenge and made up my mind to get past the first 20 pages. Surprise! Surprise! I managed to finish the book - sometime this year.

This is a politico-drama-murder mystery story and the author brings in a number of characters during the first 20 pages. Maybe that was why I lost interest. Anyway, the pace picks up after the murder which happens a few pages after the first 20 pages. And then, moves forward at a brisk pace. The ending was quite unexpected. I was quite surprised because I expected it to have a filmi ending. I liked the book even though a few months ago - I could barely devote even an hour to the book, I was quite engrossed after the murder. Considering I like murder mysteries, it is but natural.

I have only read the winner and the camel club so far. Both very different. I should try reading other books by this author. Any suggestions?

Sherlock Holmes -- A Game of Shadows

Wish you all a very Happy New Year! We managed to catch a movie on 1st January. We know almost every movie hall is packed and so it was gr8 we managed. January 1, 2012 saw us eating at my aunt's place. My cousin was in India for a short trip (Visa + some much needed family time) and after her visa formailty was done - she was all set to meet the entire gang for lunch on 1st. She suggested the movie idea. So, 6 of us made our way to Cinemax - the one @ Total Mall which has fast become my favorite :)

Onto the review, if you liked the first movie, you'll like this movie. Though this movie is a sequel, you can still watch this movie even if you have not seen the other. The humour is typical, subtle, wry, and hilarious.

The first movie had this scene - a slow motion action sequence to depict the character's thought process and moves, followed by the rapid shot of the actual action sequence. I liked it a lot and so was looking forward to it, in this movie. It was done quite well.

Image Courtesy: www.teaser-tailer.com

This movie is all about Moriarty and Sherlock Holmes. Dr. Watson manages to get married and has his honeymoon spoiled by Sherlock Holmes who comes to save them from Moriarty's evil plan, dressed as a lady. Robert Downey Jr. has done a fantastic job and so has Jude Law. A surprise, if you do not already know, is the appearance of Noomi Roopace (Lisbeth Solander in the Girl with the Dragon Tatoo original movie) as a gypsy fortune-teller. She looks so different that one cannot believe it is her. She does not have a big role but she is good.

Its a good movie, watch it now, if you have not seen it. I lowed it - it made 2012 start out so well :D