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The Patient

nemesis

  • Someone’s nemesis is a person or thing that is very difficult for them to defeat.
  • (a cause of) punishment or defeat that is deserved and cannot be avoided:

Nemesis and Greek Mythology (Source: Merriam-Webster Dicitionary)

Nemesis was the Greek goddess of vengeance, a deity who doled out rewards for noble acts and punishment for evil ones. The Greeks believed that Nemesis didn't always punish an offender immediately but might wait generations to avenge a crime. In English, nemesis originally referred to someone who brought a just retribution, but nowadays people are more likely to see animosity than justice in the actions of a nemesis.
‘The Patient’ Streaming on Disney Hostar

The Patient is about a psychiatrist and a serial killer, whose interactions form the crux of the TV series, made for Hulu, now streaming on Disney Hotstar. It stars Domhnall Gleeson (Sam Fortner), Steve Carell (Alan Strauss), Laura Niemi (Beth), Andrew Leeds (Ezra), Linda Emond (Candace) and David Alan Grier (Charlie).

Imprisoned, and displaced to an unfamiliar setting, and that too by a compulsive serial killer, who seeks help to curb his homicidal urges, Alan Strauss wonders if he has met his nemesis. Several questions plague him during the course of his captivity including that of his personal life, related to his wife’s recent death and troubled relationship with his son. His struggle seems uphill with imaginary conversations with his dead mentor, and the biggest question hanging in front of him—will he come out of this situation alive? If he cannot, can he hope for some form of redemption?

The TV series is engaging for most part with excellent performances and terrific script. It offers a unique take on therapist-patient relationship, and presents it with as little theatrics as possible. One can debate about the ending, but relationships can never be fully reconciled. This is true even when there is forgiveness and acceptance, as the residue still pours into the future. Life and death are inevitable, and life after death of loved ones, changes forever.

In treatment is another interesting TV series on therapist-patient situations.

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Rita Hayworth and The Shawshank Redemption Vs The Shawshank Redemption

The movie ‘The Shawshank Redemption’ stays true to the short story by Stephen King. In fact it is a matter of great surprise how much the story has to offer as is that makes it into Frank Darabont’s screenplay. Yet, Frank Darabont manages to leave his mark with some nice changes to the overall scheme of things. (Spoilers ahead)

  1. Character of Tommy: In the book, Tommy takes a deal from the warden and moves to a better prison, however in the movie, he is killed by warden. The change in the movie is much better as it provides a drama (the manner in which he his killed) and adds another feather to the cap of ruthlessness of the warden (no prisoners approach). 
  2. Getaway plan: In the book, the plan is a bit complicated with Andy having an associate outside and the details to his getaway plan (once he escapes the prison) is hidden under the black volcanic rock in the field of Buxton. While the aspect of both Andy and Red, coming to the same field to look for their final escape is interesting, the movie simplifies the plan, with Andy taking charge of everything (which is actually true to his character, not depending on anyone),but still leaves instructions to Red, incase he gets out. Most importantly letter to Red is taken as is from the book, as is.
  3. Boggs: Andy’s victory over Boggs and sisters is much clear and presented it better than book.
  4. Warden and main guard: In the book, this combination changes over time, but in the movie they remain same. This is actually good, to keep the villains same throughout.
  5. Time-period: The story drags on for some more years, while the movie understandably reduces it, with the period ending with Lovely Rachael. May be, point 4 is the reason.
  6. Overall narration: The story goes back and forth, with Red narrating it non-linearly, rather jumpy. It is justified, as Red with little education and no special skills in writing, can manage it that way. Frank Darabont, should be credited for making this easy on the viewers, with his screenplay nicely picking the threads and tying up into a whole fabric. He does this with élan, without leaving the important and best parts of the book.
  7. Warden’s investigation into Andy’s escape: The book scores a few brownie points here with details about a skinny guard going through the Andy’s tunnel and finding out the sewer. In the movie, Red’s narration and Andy’s visuals takes care of it, but the skinny guard (may be from the ‘I gave up drinking’ episode) could have made it effective. Frank might have chosen to opt out, because of film’s duration?
  8. Redemption and Revenge: The movie ties this theme neatly, better than the book. Andy’s revenge plot on the Warden is a new addition and provides the last dimension to his Redemption. 
  9. Mozart episode: It is not there in the book. Shows the genius of Frank, and builds on ‘Hope is a good thing’ theme.
  10. I gave up drinking, Andy getting a mouthorgan for Red, Brooke’s episode: All new, added by Frank.

Mash – A classic American war comedy

“MASH” is a classic American war comedy film released in 1970, directed by Robert Altman. The film is set in a Mobile Army Surgical Hospital (MASH) unit during the Korean War and follows the antics of the surgeons and support staff stationed there. The film is known for its black humor, social commentary, and its representation of the counterculture of the 1960s.

“MASH” was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $81 million and receiving five Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture. The film’s success was a turning point in the career of Robert Altman, who went on to direct several other notable films. “MASH” also helped establish the career of actor Elliot Gould, who played the character of Trapper John.

The impact of “MASH” went beyond its box office success and critical acclaim. The film’s style, which combined humor with a skeptical perspective on authority, helped establish a new trend in American cinema. “MASH” inspired a number of other films that tackled serious themes with humor, such as “Catch-22” and “Goodbye, Mr. Chips.” The film’s success also helped popularize the anti-war sentiment of the 1960s and 1970s, and its legacy continues to be felt today as a classic of American cinema.

Memorable scenes: One of the most memorable scenes in “MASH” is the football game between the surgeons and the infantry. This scene showcases the camaraderie and humor of the main characters, as well as their inventive approach to overcoming the monotony of army life. Another iconic scene is when Hawkeye Pierce and Duke Forrest perform surgery while drunk, using unconventional methods to save the patient’s life. This scene highlights the film’s use of black humor to comment on the absurdities of war and the military. One final memorable scene is when Hawkeye and Trapper conduct a mock funeral for a fallen comrade, complete with a funeral procession down the main street of the hospital camp, which serves as a poignant commentary on the loss and senselessness of war. These scenes are just a few examples of the film’s memorable and impactful moments that have helped establish “MASH” as a classic of American cinema.

Making of “MASH” : The making of “MASH” was filled with interesting stories and events. One of the most notable was the casting process. Originally, the studio wanted to cast big names in the lead roles, but director Robert Altman insisted on using lesser-known actors, which helped to contribute to the film’s realism. Another interesting story is the fact that the film was shot on location at Fox Ranch in Malibu, California, which helped to create a convincing Korean War setting. Additionally, the film’s famous soundtrack, which features classic songs from the era, was created through a combination of live recordings and library music.