Category Archives: ET

The Paper: A Rollercoaster Through the Newsroom’s Storm

Image generated using Ideogram 2.0

The Paper by Ron Howard is more than just a film—it’s a pulse-pounding journey into the chaotic heart of a New York tabloid. Imagine the intensity of juggling moral dilemmas, deadlines, and personal strife, all while the clock mercilessly ticks away. This is the world of Henry Hackett, portrayed by Michael Keaton with a mix of passion and vulnerability that makes you feel every ounce of his struggle.

Keaton’s Hackett isn’t just a city editor—he’s a man caught between his love for the truth and the weight of his responsibilities. And as the newsroom buzzes with the relentless energy of journalists chasing stories, you can’t help but get pulled into the fray.

The real magic of The Paper lies in its ensemble cast. Glenn Close is sharp and unyielding as the managing editor who will stop at nothing to get the story. Robert Duvall, as the seasoned editor-in-chief, adds a layer of gravitas that anchors the film’s whirlwind pace. These characters are more than just part of the newsroom—they’re the embodiment of the conflicting ideals that drive it.

Ron Howard directs with a keen eye for the frenetic pace of a newsroom under pressure. The screenplay by David and Stephen Koepp walks a fine line between tension and humor, ensuring that while the stakes are high, the characters remain relatable and human.

Yet, while The Paper excels in capturing the immediate chaos of journalism, it only skims the surface of the broader ethical questions it raises. The film touches on sensationalism and journalistic integrity but doesn’t fully dive into these waters, leaving some themes tantalizingly underexplored.

In essence, The Paper is a thrill ride through the highs and lows of news-making. It’s a film that doesn’t just show you the newsroom—it throws you headfirst into its storm, making you feel every second of the deadline-driven drama.

Connecting the Dots with Leadership: Lessons from MoviSvami

As explored in Directing Business vis-a-vis many movies, the intensity and ethical challenges faced by Henry Hackett in The Paper are not just confined to the world of journalism. They are reflective of the broader challenges that leaders across industries encounter daily. Just as Hackett must navigate his newsroom’s ethical minefields, business leaders often find themselves at the crossroads of doing what’s right versus what’s easy.

In the bustling world of digital media and modern journalism, the temptations of sensationalism are more potent than ever. The Paper serves as a reminder that, whether in a newsroom or a boardroom, the pursuit of truth and integrity should never be compromised, even when the clock is ticking.

The film’s depiction of a leader’s day—filled with moral dilemmas, high-pressure decisions, and personal sacrifices—mirrors the journey many business leaders take. It’s not just about meeting deadlines but about making decisions that align with one’s core values, a theme central to many discussions in MoviSvami.

In conclusion, The Paper isn’t just a cinematic experience; it’s a masterclass in leadership under pressure. Whether you’re steering a newsroom, a startup, or a multinational corporation, the lessons from The Paper resonate with the universal challenges of balancing ethics, responsibility, and the relentless march of time.

Key Takeaways from The Paper – Lessons from MoviSvami

  1. Leadership Under Pressure: The film’s depiction of Henry Hackett’s day reflects the relentless pressure leaders face in making tough decisions, highlighting the importance of balancing professional duties with personal responsibilities.
  2. Ethical Integrity vs. Sensationalism: The Paper serves as a reminder that the pursuit of truth and integrity should always prevail over the temptation of sensationalism, a relevant lesson for leaders in any field.
  3. Team Dynamics and Conflicting Ideals: The ensemble cast mirrors the diverse dynamics within any organization, showcasing how different leadership styles can clash or complement each other in high-pressure environments.
  4. Decision-Making in Crisis: The film illustrates the significance of making informed, ethical decisions even when time is running out—a crucial takeaway for anyone in a leadership position.

Where to Watch The Paper

If you’re in Hyderabad, India, you can watch The Paper on the following platforms:

  • Amazon Prime Video: Available for rent or purchase.
  • Apple TV: Another option for renting or buying the movie.
  • Local DVD Stores: Check stores like Landmark or Crossword, or explore second-hand DVD options online.

For more insights on leadership and management, visit Directing Business.


Breaking Stereotypes: How ‘Laapataa Ladies’ Redefines Character Shades and Redemption

image generated by author and DALL.E-3

I am generally averse to watching lady-oriented movies as they usually have stereotypes for characters–both in old and modern depictions. What is a stereotype, by the way? A stereotype is a widely held but fixed and oversimplified image or idea of a particular type of person or thing. It’s a preconceived notion that doesn’t take into account the complexities and individuality of a person’s character or the nuances of a situation. Stereotypes can be based on race, gender, age, profession, or any other characteristic, and they often lead to prejudiced attitudes and discrimination.

They even extend to good/bad/grey shades of characterization. For instance, in the realm of emotions and values, we often classify them into two distinct domains. Domain A includes positive values or emotions like compassion, gratitude, humanity, patience, selflessness, sincerity, honesty, and integrity. These emotions are generally associated with fulfillment and positive vibrations, hence they are often portrayed as ‘good’ in characterizations.

On the other hand, Domain B includes what we may call dis-values or negative emotions like greed, anger, arrogance, envy, jealousy, vanity, lust, and vindictiveness. These emotions are often associated with a sense of deficiency and negative vibrations, hence they are commonly depicted as ‘bad’ or ‘evil’ in characterizations. These stereotypes, although oversimplified, often shape the way characters are portrayed in movies, reinforcing the stereotypes further.

This is where ‘Laapataa Ladies’ stands out, making it a terrific watch. I will refrain from delving into the specifics of the plot. Instead, I will focus on two aspects: 1) The adept handling of the good, bad, and grey shades of characters without unnecessary exaggeration, and 2) The commendable portrayal of characters staying true to their initial characterization, yet managing to redeem themselves due to the well-crafted story arc.

Handling of Character Shades

Phool (played by Nitanshi Goel):
Phool is a character who represents the simplicity and naivety often found in rural women. Her character arc shows a realistic and grounded portrayal of a woman discovering her own strength. Initially depicted as shy and reserved, Phool gains confidence as she navigates her separation from her husband and starts working at a railway station. This growth is portrayed without exaggeration, highlighting her evolving self-reliance and resilience

Consistency and Redemption

SI Shyam Manohar (played by Ravi Kishan):
Ravi Kishan plays SI Shyam Manohar, a local police officer who initially appears corrupt, greedy, and brutal, embodying many of the negative stereotypes associated with law enforcement in rural areas. However, good shades of his character are shown early on where he is depicted as a process-oriented inspector who diligently does his job before taking advantage of the system. This meticulous nature comes to his rescue in the end. Initially, his character detains Jaya on false accusations, showcasing a lack of empathy and ethics. However, as the story unfolds and Jaya’s true identity and circumstances come to light, SI Shyam Manohar undergoes a significant transformation.

Despite his initial negative portrayal, the inspector’s character arc takes a turn towards redemption. He becomes a protector and ally for Jaya, cleverly turning the tables on her abusive husband, Pradeep. This shift is pivotal, as it not only highlights the inspector’s capacity for change but also emphasizes the film’s message that people are not always what they seem. This evolution from a corrupt official to a hero figure who aids in ensuring Jaya’s safety and freedom is a testament to the film’s ability to maintain character consistency while allowing for meaningful redemption. Ravi Kishan’s portrayal of SI Shyam Manohar is praised for its humor, love, and unforeseen feminism, making his performance stand out and earning applause from the audience.

Jaya (played by Pratibha Ranta):
Jaya’s journey in the film is a prime example of a character staying true to her initial characterization while finding redemption. She starts as a newlywed bride trapped in an abusive marriage. Due to a mix-up, she gets a chance to escape and pursue her education. Her consistent bravery and desire for independence are central to her character. Jaya’s redemption arc is well-crafted, as she not only escapes her predicament but also helps others around her, staying true to her inner strength and moral compass throughout the story.

Conclusion

Laapataa Ladies is a refreshing and nuanced film that breaks away from stereotypical portrayals of women, presenting a balanced and engaging narrative. The commendable performances by the cast, particularly Nitanshi Goel, Ravi Kishan, and Pratibha Ranta, along with Kiran Rao’s adept direction, make this film a standout. It skillfully handles complex character arcs and themes, making it a must-watch. Streaming now on Netflix, Laapataa Ladies is a testament to the power of well-crafted storytelling and character development.

Tailpiece: The character played by Ravi Kishan could have been portrayed by a restrained Kota Srinivasa Rao in the past, using Rayalaseema slang. In the current generation of actors, Murali Sharma or Rao Ramesh would have done an equally great job if a Telugu version were to be made today.

The Influence of a Father’s Wisdom: A Personal and Cinematic View

Legacy of Love- generated by author and DALL.E-3

From when a child is very young, through their teenage years and into adulthood, what a father teaches can significantly influence their life. This relationship is very special and can affect many aspects of how a child grows up. A father’s wisdom and teachings can become integral to the child’s identity, shaping their perspectives, beliefs, and choices. The relationship between a father and child is complex, filled with love, respect, teaching, and friendship.

In certain castes, such as the one I was born into, a father becomes a child’s first guru. He initiates them into the path of learning by whispering the Gayatri mantra in a ceremony known as Upanayanam. Generally speaking, our fathers guide us through various aspects of life.

From my book ‘Directing Business’-

From our earliest steps to our most significant milestones, our fathers play a crucial role in shaping our perspectives and understanding of the world. They impart practical wisdom, teach invaluable skills, instill a sense of morality, and nurture our curiosity. They guide us through the complexities of life, helping us navigate personal challenges, academic pursuits, and professional endeavors. These lessons, both big and small, form the foundation of our character and influence our path in life. However, a father’s role is not just limited to imparting knowledge and wisdom. They share our joys, support us in times of sorrow, and stand as pillars of strength and security. The bond between a father and child transcends the boundaries of a typical teacher-student relationship, making it a unique blend of love, respect, and guidance.

Even when our fathers depart from our lives, they continue to serve as our guiding light. Their teachings and principles echo in our minds, guiding our actions and decisions. The values they instilled in us become our moral compass, steering us through life’s dilemmas. Their memories become a source of strength and inspiration, motivating us to strive for success and overcome obstacles. They continue to live on in our thoughts, our actions, and in the lessons we pass on to the next generation. In essence, the wisdom they impart becomes a legacy, spanning across generations, influencing not just our lives but also those of our children and grandchildren. This enduring impact of a father’s guidance truly encapsulates the timeless essence of fatherhood. That’s the way I feel, and here’s my tribute to my father, soon after he left us for the heavenly abode. Remembering My Father.

Here are three movies in Hindi, Telugu, and English that delve into various aspects of fatherhood and examine father-son relationships:

  1. Bangaru Papa (1955): Betrayed by his wife and framed for a crime, Kotayya (SVR garu), a once kind man, spirals into drunken rage seeking revenge, but his path is diverted when he finds an abandoned baby, whom he raises with love, leaving his past behind. (Streaming on Eros Now, YouTube)
  2. To Kill a Mockingbird (1962): Scout Finch, a curious young girl in the American South, witnesses her lawyer father Atticus defend a black man wrongly accused of a crime. Through her innocent eyes, we see the racism and prejudice that tear at her community, but also the courage and compassion that challenge it. (Streaming on Plex, Amazon Prime-Rental)
  3. Do Ankhen Barah Haath (1957): Warden Adinath, a man who sees the good in everyone, defies tradition by convincing authorities to parole violent criminals. He guides them, like a father, on a run-down farm, using hard work to heal their souls. However, their success threatens a corrupt businessman, leading to a devastating end. (Streaming on YouTube)

And a few more suggestions from mem.ai:

  1. The Pursuit of Happyness: This English movie beautifully portrays a father’s struggle to provide for his son while teaching him important life lessons.
  2. Dangal: This Hindi film revolves around a father who, despite societal pressures, trains his daughters to be world-class wrestlers, showcasing the importance of a father’s role in challenging gender stereotypes and empowering his daughters.
  3. Manam: A Telugu movie that explores the concept of reincarnation within a family, highlighting the enduring bond between a father and son across different lifetimes.
  4. Finding Nemo: An animated film that delves into a father’s relentless journey across the ocean to find his missing son, demonstrating a father’s unwavering love and determination.
  5. Piku: A Hindi film that humorously explores the relationship between a father and daughter, showing that even amidst constant bickering, the love and care between a father and child never fade.

Each of these films offers a unique perspective on the role of fathers and their relationships with their children, making them must-watch films for anyone interested in exploring the depths of fatherhood.

In conclusion, the bond between a father and a child is profound and impactful, shaping many facets of the child’s life. The life lessons, values, and wisdom a father imparts can truly influence the child’s outlook, beliefs, and decisions. These films provide a glimpse into this intricate relationship and its various dimensions, emphasizing the enduring influence and the essential role of fathers in our lives.