Breaking Bad

 I started watching web series from the Covid-19 pandemic, not many but very selective...Money Heist, Squid Game..etc 

Breaking Bad came my way with the news of Rajinikanth watching this web series...so I just started browsing it and got glued to it 

Breaking Bad changed television for many of us. Sure, the trend of high-content drama on television was started by HBO’s biggies like The Sopranos and The Wire, and nobody discussed a TV show on the internet like Lost, but Breaking Bad was the harbinger of the next chapter for the medium. It proved that the viewers were not idiots to be fed inferior sitcoms and dumbed-down storylines. Breaking Bad respected its audience. It did not spoon-feed stuff and kept them guessing. It is safe to say that many of today’s top shows would not exist without Breaking Bad.

Breaking Bad is a masterclass in storytelling, character development, and moral complexity. The series revolves around the transformation of Walter White, a mild-mannered chemistry teacher turned ruthless drug kingpin, but its brilliance lies in its richly developed supporting characters who add depth and nuance to the narrative. Here’s a detailed review of some of the most interesting characters from the series:

Walter White (Bryan Cranston)

The protagonist-turned-antagonist, Walter White, is the heart of Breaking Bad. His descent from a well-intentioned family man to the feared drug lord “Heisenberg” is one of the most compelling arcs in television history. Walter is fascinating because he’s both relatable and horrifying. Initially, his motives are understandable—providing for his family after a terminal cancer diagnosis—but as his greed and ego grow, he becomes a chilling representation of unchecked ambition. Bryan Cranston’s portrayal captures the character’s vulnerability, rage, and cunning in a way that makes him unforgettable.

Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul)

Jesse is the emotional core of the series. A small-time meth producer turned Walter’s reluctant partner, Jesse’s arc is one of pain, redemption, and resilience. Despite his troubled past and questionable decisions, Jesse is deeply sympathetic, thanks to his vulnerability and moral compass, which contrasts with Walter’s descent into darkness. His struggles with guilt and loss make him one of the most human characters in the series. Aaron Paul’s raw and heartfelt performance earned him multiple awards and a special place in the hearts of fans

Skyler White (Anna Gunn)

Skyler often divides viewers, but her complexity as a character is undeniable. As Walter’s wife, she is thrust into a world of lies and criminality that she neither asked for nor condoned. Skyler’s attempts to protect her family, navigate her husband’s transformation, and assert her own agency make her a compelling character. Anna Gunn’s performance brings nuance to Skyler, showing her strength, fear, and inner conflict.

Hank Schrader (Dean Norris)

Hank begins as a brash and jovial DEA agent, seemingly the polar opposite of his brother-in-law Walter. However, as the series progresses, Hank’s depth becomes apparent. His dedication to justice, coupled with his vulnerability after a traumatic injury, makes him a multidimensional character. His cat-and-mouse game with Walter in the later seasons adds intense drama to the story. Dean Norris expertly balances Hank’s humor, determination, and vulnerability.

Saul Goodman (Bob Odenkirk)

The sleazy yet charming criminal lawyer Saul Goodman provides much-needed comic relief in the series. Beneath his flashy suits and quippy one-liners, Saul is a shrewd and resourceful character who often serves as a moral mirror to Walter and Jesse. His ability to navigate the criminal underworld with ease makes him both entertaining and essential to the plot. Saul’s popularity led to the creation of the equally brilliant spin-off Better Call Saul.

Gustavo "Gus" Fring (Giancarlo Esposito)

Gus Fring is one of the most chilling and methodical villains in television history. As the owner of Los Pollos Hermanos, Gus presents a façade of a respectable businessman while running a massive drug empire. His calm demeanor, meticulous planning, and ruthlessness make him a formidable antagonist. Giancarlo Esposito’s performance is both subtle and terrifying, capturing Gus’s quiet menace and unrelenting ambition.

Mike Ehrmantraut (Jonathan Banks)

Mike is the quintessential "fixer" with a code of honor. As Gus Fring’s right-hand man, Mike is a man of few words but immense competence. His pragmatism, loyalty, and love for his granddaughter make him a deeply sympathetic character, despite his criminal activities. Jonathan Banks imbues Mike with a quiet dignity that makes him one of the most respected characters in the series

Todd Alquist (Jesse Plemons)

Todd appears unassuming and polite at first, but his character quickly reveals a chilling sociopathy. His loyalty to Walter and willingness to commit heinous acts without remorse make him one of the most disturbing characters in the series. Jesse Plemons’ performance is understated yet profoundly unsettling

The ensemble cast of Breaking Bad brings Vince Gilligan’s masterfully written characters to life with exceptional performances. No matter how minor, each character is intricately developed and contributes to the overarching narrative. The show’s ability to make even morally corrupt characters relatable or sympathetic speaks to its brilliance. These characters are not just individuals in a story—they are mirrors reflecting the complexities of human nature and the consequences of our choices.

Jailer movie review

The Hindu Newspaper said : 

‘Jailer’ movie review: Rajinikanth, Nelson make a captivating comeback that majorly works

Though far from perfect, the towering presence of Rajinikanth — along with Nelson’s fortified writing, unique sense of humour, and fan service — make ‘Jailer’ a commendable comeback for both the actor and filmmaker

The Times of India said : 

It’s director Nelson's show in the first half, and Superstar Rajini takes the baton in the second half

In the 1999 film Padayappa, after an intense display of power play, Neelambari aka Ramya Krishnan tells Rajini, "Vayasanalum un style'um azhagum unna vittu pogala" (Even though you have aged, your style and charm has not left you). Twenty-four years later, we can still safely say the same about Rajini in Jailer.

https://youtu.be/1F3hm6MfR1k?si=ZvZcAA8l_VsCZ_kC 

VIKRAM - movie review

 

In the year 1986, Kamal Hassan acted in “Vikram” Tamil movie which was a failure. The plot of the film was adapted from a novel written by Sujatha with same name. The screenplay was written by Kamal Haasan and Sujatha. The film collapsed in the box office as its unrealistic climax was not accepted by the audience then, though it was the 100^th film celebration of the popular star Kamal Hassan.

 

In the year 1986, Lokesh Kanagaraj was born, and turned to become a movie director from being a bank officer. His short films and proven track record in his 3 movies from the year 2017 was a great success. 

Logesh Kanagaraj being an adrent fan of Kamal Hassan's violent stunts and crying in dark.. inspired to use the title and make a movie in the year 2022,. 

“Vikram” (2022) released with massive promotions right across the globe and all over India as it was released in multiple languages...in Tamil it became a great success! (Second chance given for the movie to make money....though old...Kamal Hassan got a second chance to count his money and to buy house in Boat club instead of going to settle in USA. 

Vikram (2022) is a star studded movie was a dark thriller about drugs smuggling, cops, bad guys..guns and lots of killing, do not get me wrong. Everything about Vikram is good — except for Kamal Haasan. Why do you even need the man for this film? Why make a film with Kamal when you don’t even get to register and feel his presence? Why Vikram (1986) ? It could have been any other film. Of course, we get the logical reasoning behind using the brand Vikram. But does Kamal’s original film have any relevance to the new one? Absolutely not. You could have shown Kamal as an Agent and the film still would have worked big time. The new Vikram could have still been a standalone film where Amar (Fahadh Faasil who is absolutely terrific) carries on the legacy of Vikram, like in the James Bond movies. The open-ended climax hints at that possibility.

As fans of the original film and Kamal Haasan, you feel let down. The disappointment comes from the fact that Lokesh has failed to realise the true potential of his idol — both as an actor and action star.  Nevertheless, there is a lot to chew on.

“Vikram” has an unusual opening. Definitely unusual for a Kamal Haasan film. Commerically too… It begins right with ‘Pathala Pathala’ song, which feels like an afterthought that was inserted just for the sake of it. Except for this oddly-placed song, the film gets going and there is not a single wasted moment in the long-drawn first half. 

Lokesh must be as much a fan of Christopher Nolan as he is of Scorsese. A lot of scenes remind you of Nolan’s film. We, in fact, get a Tenet-like sequence and a Bane-like voiceover in this one. There are lots of references to masks and unmasking of identities. The man in-charge of this unmasking is Amar, who heads an uncounted team of Black Squads. They are assigned by the Police Department to investigate a series of high-profile murders in the department that leads to one man Santhanam (Vijay Sethupathi, who is, of course, terrific). Santhanam runs a drug empire. He faces the heat from a recent drug bust, which is a hark back to Kaithi. Anything more would spoil the fun.

There’s a certain taste, visual flavor and a certain style to the way he writes and directs. He accomplished this cinema experience with ease in the terrific Kaithi, that had the flavour of a wholesome Hollywood thriller. Like Speed on drugs. 

Vijay Sethupathi, on the other hand, is remarkable as Santhanam, helps the online sellers to sell all the old fashioned strips shirts….the real fun is when he takes the pills in between his teeth’s he gains the same power like Chota Bheem after eating laddoos…but at last he is also taking many peoples along with him to face the canon..

The usage of guns, canon can’t be compared to that of legendary efforts of KGF, which is far more superior and amazed us to the core…in this movie, the guns and canon are not as effective…the thrill factor of carrying the big machine is not like Kaithi or KGF..,missing the X factor!!! …nobody is finished with the massive bullets and canons as it been used many times, the child that was carefully carried by scarifying life’s to take away from the war field was bought again to the same place by Fahad Fazil??!!! Wondering why so? What’s the logic?!!! Wastage of bullets!!!

Funny is the entry of villain in the climax like school assembly… following the cliché by killing the person carries the bad news…come on boy. Its age old practices done already by Nambiyar in 70s…and even by Raghuvaran in 90s way too many times….when the crowd disperse…who is going to clean the corpse??!!

Let’s wait for the sequel….

First Half- Year 2021

It was felt that the first half of 2021 went very fast, as it was mixed with online and offline mode as the year started with positive vibe. Days were getting better from the deadly impact of Covid-19 right from March 2020 where everyone of us in the world though we might be the carrier of corona virus, washes out hands frequently, had kabasura kudineer, took vapor, eat healthy stuff...as all of us worried for developing symptoms of corona virus even for a sudden sneezing, slight throat pain or normal cough...fear was gripping all of us as there was no prescribed medicine for it...if got infected, hospitalization, if with slight symptoms then the quarantine periods were much worst with total isolation, and bed rest with strict diet and exercise but after November 2020...slowly regained the real positiveness in the Covid-19 as the cases in Tamil Nadu (India) dropped to low level and the situation getting into control, with full fledged routines getting back to normal in the hey days with the need to revamp the economy, it was lovely to start our usual way of living...going to office, schools for 10th and 12th re-opened and colleges with students in the campus, crowded buses and railway stations marked the return of normalcy ...along with the schedule of state assembly elections campaigns. 

Saddened by Rajinikanth's withdrawal from politics due to health reasons backed by possible effects of his fans been exposed to the Covid-19...Superstart Rajinikanth said no to politics, but election has to go on...as others candidates like Kamal Hassan were using helicopter, cars, bus, walking, talking and meeting people with their political mandate without much stern warning from the election commission. Though some were forcing the importance of SMS (Social distancing, Mask and Sanitizers) along with the crowded rallies and meetings..It was the need of the hour as the election has to happen as per the timeline given and all the TV channels were busy with the political debates and coverage of their political favorites. Not much about Covid-19 till the election news faded.

Meanwhile, Government of India has taken due care by giving free vaccines like Covidshield and Covaxin for people above 45 years..at least for the first dose...the duration of the second dose was extended from 4 weeks to12-16 weeks...not exactly satisfying the question whether this for shortage of vaccine or the advise from the professional medical body. As the surge in Covid-19 happened again from April - Central government has given the state government power to go for lock down / any measure as required to control the spread of Covid-19 - News about the shortage of bed, shortage of oxygen in the hospitals killed more people. The second wave affecting with full spree in Delhi, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Madhya Pradesh. 

Around the world the vaccine has reduced the spread of Covid-19 as USA been successful in vaccinating and reducing the spread. European countries too has reduced the spread but still precious methods are followed as the mutated virus might need another booster vaccine. With the mutated virus..turning around as Delta plus variant getting a serious note for the future or so called third wave...!!!

Tamil Nadu Election results were declared and DMK came to power !!!

I personally met Mr.Udainidhi Stalin and congratulated him for his new endeavor as MLA,  seen him as the CEO / Director of Snow Bowling, Snow Housing with friendly, enthusiastic, administrative and great leadership skills. As his transformation from the low profile successful business man to kollywood producer, successful promising young actor and now as the new dawn for the political party is really a great journey.. he represented the common man..carried himself to newer heights with more responsibilities and duties along with his progression...I really admired him and wished him more success !!!

PS: There is no any political inclination in this meet

My favorite list of OTT - Lock down special January  - June 2021

- The Family Man (Season 1 & 2) https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9544034/ 

One of the best Hindi web series with super amazing script and action packed scenes, proven versatile actor Manoj Bajpayee aligned with wonderful direction by Raj & DK makes this series to see all the episode continuously...

  

Season 2 made it more interesting as it had more interesting characters with in depth virtues along with the Srilankan impact.

- Panchayat (Season 1)   

When a city-bred youth Abhishek Tripathi is forced to take up a job in a village called Phulera because he has no other option in hand, his new life and how he faces the situation along with his MBA - CAT exam preparation 

- Dhrishyam 2 (Malayalam movie)

The mega walk of George Kutty (Mohan Lal) with his clever moves made this crime drama a sensational hit....it carried the weight of Father as protector trope more thrilling...

- Kalki (Malayalam movie)

The power of police added with the charm of Tovino Thomas made this mass entertainer a great success.

Kilometre and Kilometre   https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7268736/

Following the good movies of Tovino Thomas is this one. in which Tivino Thomas as a poor village young man takes his bike to show around for the newly rich American traveler...added with interesting events...

- Middle class melodies (Telugu movie)

Brother of Vijay Deverkonda (Anand Deverkonda) acts as the young village boy who is fond of his Bombay Chutney and wants it to be world famous in his Guntur tiffin center.

- Playback (Telugu movie)

Something really different has to come from other place...yes this is the movie about the Tele conversation between a girl and boy but in different time zone, the girl is from 1993 and the boy is from 2019.

Though its inspired from the German Webseries Dark has lot of local flavor which is worth watching...

- Panchackaram (Tamil movie)  https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11493124/

Five youngsters with difference in their paths and personalities struck together with mystical book that turns their life into serious incidents makes it worth watching....

-Kalavu (Tamil movie) https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7257718/ 

Gripping thriller with unexpected turns in the bike ride as well in the life's trust....

-Lockup (Tamil movie)  https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11216782/?ref_=fn_al_tt_3

The twist in the movie of who did it...as the mysterious death gets more complicated

Updates about Superstar Rajinikhanth's new movie....Annathe

Year 2020 - Covid19

 There is more to say about the year 2020, but photos and hints of happenings will fill this page...

With its beginning in a grandeur manner with the family get together. Trip to SriLanka, Madurai and Kancheepuram happened with the new experience in Yalpanam and meeting of family members for the wedding in Madurai. And later part of the year which happened to be parted away due to no flight services and the pandemic Covid - 19 at its peak made people to stay home.

Deaths within close relatives were shocking and Covid-19 at the residence opposite to us made things worst. Besides the entertainment of terrace planting, walking and watching TV nothing was notable besides cooking..Restriction even to go out for buying groceries were counted. The ritual of going out and coming back to home had many things to do like washing hands, taking bath, not touching anything... Work from home culture were made mandatory and kept us busy.

 

April 2020 & May 2020

 

 August 2020

 

 

Come November, flight to Bangalore was booked to make it as the reunion day after such a long delay...the announcement also came on the same day for reopening...which was again postponed... but all our plans happened luckily. When the work from home were happening with the visit once in a

 while officially...

December 2020

Rajinikhant was about to announce his political party on 31st December 2020 but went sick and declared no politics hereafter - due to the pandemic situation and his health condition. Disappointed Rajini fans were able to understand his condition, with so much of support and capable of making the change in politics, the sudden set back was shocking.....bold decision indeed in Rajini style.