‘A Revolution on Canvas’ to ‘Dune’: Five of the best films in March

March can be said to be a month teeming with cinematic treasures waiting to be discovered. From sweeping epics to intimate character studies, the silver screen beckons with a diverse array of storytelling delights. Five of the films gracing theatres this month are set to offer a unique blend of artistry, emotion, and entertainment and they are:

Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire

Godzilla and King Kong, two titans of the MonsterVerse franchise, first clashed in a spectacular showdown in 2021's "Godzilla vs Kong", captivating audiences with their epic battle. Now, in "Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire", director Adam Wingard takes the narrative in an unexpected direction. Rather than perpetuating their rivalry, civilization faces a new threat in the form of a menacing creature, described by Wingard as "a devilish, Kong-type creature." The fate of humanity hangs in the balance, prompting Godzilla and Kong to forge an unlikely alliance to combat this common enemy.

Kung Fu Panda 4

After eight years the beloved Kung Fu Panda series roars back to life with "Kung Fu Panda 4", reuniting audiences with the iconic Jack Black reprising his role as the lovable Po, the Dragon Warrior. Joining him is Awkwafina, lending her voice to a cunning fox, Po's new ally in his battle against an evil chameleon with mystical powers, portrayed by Viola Davis. While Awkwafina's distinctive voice has become a staple in recent animations, including "Raya and The Last Dragon", "The Bad Guys", and "Migration", the allure of the film lies in its promised spectacle.

Director Mike Mitchell assures fans that "Kung Fu Panda 4" is a cinematic experience tailored for the big screen, with meticulous attention to detail in every aspect, from breathtaking set pieces to awe-inspiring action sequences. With a focus on delivering epic visuals and captivating effects, Mitchell's vision aims to transport audiences into a world where martial arts mastery meets magical showdowns.

A Revolution on Canvas

"A Revolution on Canvas" delves into the profound complexities of artistry, activism, and personal sacrifice through the lens of Nikzad "Nicky" Nodjoumi's remarkable journey. In an era where the terms "outrageous" and "radical" often ring hollow, Nodjoumi's work embodies their true essence. When his provocative paintings challenged the status quo in Tehran's tumultuous political landscape of 1980, they became symbols of dissent, forcing Nodjoumi to flee his homeland to safeguard his life.

Now, his daughter Sara Nodjoumi and her husband Till Schauder unveil an intimate portrait of his life, spanning from the vibrant streets of Iran to the bustling art scene of New York City. Their documentary illuminates Nodjoumi's unwavering commitment to art and activism, even at the cost of familial bonds. Within its narrative lies a gripping tale akin to a heist thriller, as clandestine efforts unfold to retrieve his "treasonous" masterpieces from the clutches of censorship in Tehran.

Road House

"Road House", a cult classic from 1989 featuring Patrick Swayze as a reluctant bouncer defending a roadside bar in Missouri, is set for a grand revival. Directed by Doug Liman, known for his work on blockbuster hits like "The Bourne Identity" and "Mr and Mrs Smith", the remake promises a larger-than-life, action-packed experience with Jake Gyllenhaal stepping into the lead role.

Amidst the buzz surrounding Gyllenhaal's charismatic portrayal and his notable shirtless scenes, Liman's stance against Amazon's decision to bypass a theatrical release for a straight-to-streaming debut has stirred controversy. 

Despite the upheaval, Liman remains steadfast in his belief in the film's excellence, expressing confidence that it will captivate audiences and leave them exhilarated, possibly even dancing as the credits roll. With high expectations and a fervent dedication to his craft, Liman's "Road House" remake is poised to make a significant impact, both onscreen and off.

Dune: Part Two

Building upon Frank Herbert's expansive science-fiction universe, Denis Villeneuve returns with the highly anticipated continuation of his adaptation of "Dune". Initially constrained by the novel's immense length, Villeneuve's first instalment, released in 2021, covered only the opening chapters of the saga. Now, audiences are invited back to the arid landscapes of Arrakis for the sequel. Timothée Chalamet reprises his role as Paul Atreides, a nobleman endowed with psychic abilities, driven by a quest for vengeance against the nefarious Baron Harkonnen, portrayed by Stellan Skarsgård. Assisted by the indigenous Fremen and their formidable sandworm allies, Paul's journey unfolds amidst a star-studded ensemble including Christopher Walken, Léa Seydoux, Florence Pugh, and Austin Butler, complementing the returning cast of Zendaya, Josh Brolin, and Rebecca Ferguson. 

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‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’ directors finalise next film

However, it's not just the stellar lineup that captivates audiences, but also the film's grandiose design and immersive atmosphere. Clarisse Loughrey of The Independent lauds "Dune: Part Two" as a masterful blend of sensory stimulation and imaginative storytelling, setting it apart as a blockbuster experience unlike any other.