12 Comments
Sep 26, 2023Liked by H R Venkatesh

Thanks for a well elucidated analysis that common movie viewers (not just the elite critics) can appreciate. I was beginning to be a little disappointed with the original formulation of your Kumbalangi Test but you redeemed it with the final enhancement.

Two other cultural memes that cinema (especially Hollywood) must be measured and held accountable for propagating and normalizing are: (1) throwing objects and smashing them against the floor or a wall or glass to show anger or frustration sometimes for trivial matters and often by actors whose role otherwise has no personality attributes matching this action, and (2) throwing food items into the bin after taking a bite, or, elaborately pouring two glasses of a drink after one person asks if the other wants a drink, and then immediately, leaving both drinks and going out.

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Aug 6, 2023Liked by H R Venkatesh

Very impressive. Rich with insightful thoughts. I felt like reading this masterpiece again and again until each word gets tattooed on my mind.

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Wonderful idea! This got me thinking about movies which would pass the test but (surprisingly) I'm drawing a blank. Will definitely apply this standard to future movies.

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I’d been waiting for this piece. This makes for a compelling and pleasurable read, and although I haven’t (yet) watched Kumbalangi Nights, I’m almost certain I’ll be applying this test to every film I watch now on.

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Ajab Mardangi Ki Ghazab Kahani

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