Zarin Tasnim

Zarin is either writing or crying. Send her recommendations to w.zarin.tasnim@gmail.com.

Revisiting ‘Close-Up’: Abbas Kiarostami's magnum opus

"Close-Up," crafted by the cinematic virtuoso Abbas Kiarostami, isn't just a film; it's a deeply human odyssey that resonates with the core of our existence. What elevates it to the echelons of the greatest films ever made as regarded by many, is its profound exploration of a journey that intertwines reality, identity, and the universal yearning for connection.

7m ago

Revisiting ‘Breakfast at Tiffany's’ timeless elegance

Director Blake Edwards brought Truman Capote's iconic novella, "Breakfast at Tiffany's" to life on the silver screen in 1961. The film, starring Audrey Hepburn as the unforgettable Holly Golightly, has since become a cinematic classic, etching itself into the annals of film history as a symbol of timeless elegance and cultural impact.

7m ago

‘Annie Hall’: A timeless exploration of the heart, wrapped in wit and wisdom

Reflecting on "Annie Hall" is like revisiting an old friend—familiar yet complex, nostalgic yet blurred by the passage of time. Woody Allen's masterpiece has turned 47 today, and it has always been more than just a rom-com; it's a lens into the intricate dance of love and life, with all its quirks and imperfections.

8m ago

Humanising chaos: The unconventional beauty of Greek Weird Wave cinema

Have you ever felt like you've swerved onto the wrong lane, entering an entirely different and unknown region? This sensation of disorientation and surrealism mirrors the sentiments that birthed the Greek Weird Wave—a captivating cinematic movement that emerged in response to Greece's tumultuous economic crisis of 2010.

8m ago

Netflix’s 'Crashing Eid' unfolds like a festive fireworks

As families across the globe prepare for Eid festivities, there's a new dish on the entertainment menu that's stirring up quite the comedic storm—"Crashing Eid" on Netflix. This Saudi original series is serving up laughter while challenging societal norms with a side of wit.

8m ago

Ramy Youssef, the mayor of muslim disaster, is tired of apologising

Ramy Youssef, the Egyptian-American comedian, isn't just crafting jokes; he's crafting conversations. Not only is he a funny man, but he is also a voice for a generation navigating complex socio-political landscapes. With his latest HBO special, "More Feelings," Youssef digs deep into societal issues, adeptly blending humour with poignant commentary on his experiences as a Muslim celebrity in America, offering a glimpse into his journey as a comedian, activist, and individual.

8m ago

Banality of evil in Jonathan Glazer's brutal masterpiece ‘The Zone of Interest’

Jonathan Glazer's film "The Zone of Interest” has carved a haunting niche in cinematic history, digging deep into the abyss of Nazi Germany's atrocities with chilling resonance. Unveiling the banality of evil and the human capacity for self-justification, Glazer orchestrates a symphony of sound and imagery that leaves an indelible mark on the psyche of viewers.

8m ago

‘Shrinking’: A comedy drama that hits close to home

In the vast landscape of television series, few manage to capture the complexity of human relationships and the struggles of everyday life quite like "Shrinking". With a star-studded cast led by Jason Segel and Harrison Ford, this Apple TV+ comedy drama dives deep into the intricacies of therapy, grief, and redemption, offering viewers a refreshing take on the mid-life crisis narrative.

9m ago
May 14, 2023
May 14, 2023

Mrinal Sen: a look back at excellence

Remembering the pioneer of Indian parallel cinema on his birth centenary

May 5, 2023
May 5, 2023

‘Say hello to my little friend!’: Exploring Al Pacino and his troubled characters

One of the keys to Pacino's success as an actor is his ability to convey a character's emotions through his body language and facial expressions.

May 1, 2023
May 1, 2023

Revisiting the ‘The Grand Budapest Hotel’

On the occasion of Wes Anderson's birthday, let's revisit one of his most iconic movies to date.

April 29, 2023
April 29, 2023

‘The Song of Scorpions’: Irrfan Khan's Swansong

Irrfan Khan, in one of his final roles, delivers a masterful performance as Aadam, a reclusive camel trader with a mysterious past.

April 29, 2023
April 29, 2023

Irrfan Khan: Remembering the ‘ordinary’ hero

Known for his affable smile and genial ways, Irrfan taught us that you can fall in love not just with a face but with the essence of a person. Khan found his finest hour in this story, with an exquisitely gentle, subtle performance.

April 23, 2023
April 23, 2023

Remembering Satyajit Ray through his revolutionary female characters

Ray's portrayal of women in his films was not limited to his female characters' on-screen presence. He also worked closely with women behind the scenes, such as his wife, Bijoya Ray, who was his constant collaborator and partner.

April 18, 2023
April 18, 2023

A journey of poetry and music: In conversation with Ahmed Hasan Sunny

Sunny quickly rose to fame with his impressive vocal range and for its versatility. Some of his popular hits include "Amare Uraia Dio", "Shob Plastic Er Putul", and "Anondo Bhoirobi".

April 2, 2023
April 2, 2023

Pedro Pascal: A father figure for film-generations to follow

What makes Pascal such a compelling actor is his ability to inhabit a wide variety of characters. Whether he's playing a masked bounty hunter or a suave secret agent, he brings a level of authenticity and depth to his roles that draw audiences in.

March 16, 2023
March 16, 2023

'The Last of Us': A gripping game to TV adaptation

As the series progresses, Joel and Ellie encounter a variety of obstacles and challenges, from hostile survivors to terrifying infected creatures. Each episode is expertly crafted, with a focus on character development and world-building that draws viewers in and keeps them invested in the story.

February 24, 2023
February 24, 2023

Sanjay Leela Bhansali: The Master of Grandeur

His films combine operatic language with impassioned desires to create a gorgeous universe that makes you wish it actually did. On the 60th birthday of Bhansali, we take a look at some of his noted works over the years.