Arnav Srivastav
6. The Great Gatsby (2013)
“Ol’ Sport” is perhaps the most memorable dialogue of the film. Nick Carraway is the new neighbor of the mysterious Mr. Gatsby. The latter frequents his luxurious mansion with lavish parties and is the most popular man in the city, but seldom makes public appearances. Instantly intrigued, both the parties make moves to conjure up acquaintances and succeed in doing so. Carraway’s cousin Daisy lives with her affluent husband, Tom, in the heart of the city. When Gatsby knows the same, he sparks an old connection which gives birth to one of the greatest love stories ever told. Dicaprio and Edgerton play their parts to perfection. Despite being largely similar in stature and endurance, the narrative draws up a dichotomy in their personalities. While Gatsby is painted as gullible, charming, and immensely meticulous, Tom is portrayed as dominating, fierce, and rugged. The beautiful visuals are a delight for the audiences, so are the endearing performances of a powerful cast.
5. Warrior (2011)
Tommy, an ex-US Marine returns home after his tour. He has a troubled relationship with his dad, who tries to reconcile but to no avail. The abusive and alcoholic father is shown to have beaten Tommy and his mother, who became terminally ill, and Tommy had to leave alone with her. Brendan, his brother and a former MMA struggles to sustain his family and fights amateurish competitions. His school fires him for the same. Both the brothers take part in a competition, owing to pure coincidence unknown that the other is doing so. Hardy and Edgerton make for a terrific brother duo. The engaging and thrilling action sequences are perfectly shot, with both the actors looking the part. The emotional elements of the narrative are a bit underdeveloped but fairly effective with Nick Nolte leading the charge. Riding on its terrific cast and moving plotline, ‘Warrior’ is a fine sports drama that leaves its unfounded sense of assuredness behind.
4. Black Mass (2015)
‘Black Mass’ is a vicious retelling of the Whitey Gang’s nefarious crimes in the heart of the city of Boston. The film’s main attractions are FBI Agent John Conolley (Edgerton), and Whitey Bulgar (Depp), who strike a partnership for information and protection respectively. As their association starts profiting both the parties, their web of sordid lies begins to asphyxiate their personal lives and destroy the professional lives. The film garnered warm reviews on opening. The performance of its two leads was heavily praised, receiving universal acclaim.
3. The Secret Life of Us (2001-05)
‘The Secret Life of Us’ was an Australian television show which aired from 2001 to 2005. The show centralizes on the life of eight young people from different walks of life in their 20s sharing a block of apartments in Melbourne. Their interaction with one another, relationships with other friends and romantic interests, along with their personal and career development, are featured. Edgerton received the AACTA Award for Best Lead Actor in a Television Drama for his portrayal of Will McGill in 2002. His stunning performance and the expansive scope of the show’s appealing plot are what stand out the most.
2. Loving (2016)
Based on the landmark case of Loving v. Virginia, ‘Loving’ is a moving story of America’s first interracial marriage. Breaking stereotypes and setting new standards for the world to emulate, Richard, a white construction worker, falls for Mildred, a black woman and decide to marry once the letter is pregnant. Due to Virginia’s absurd and racist laws, they go ahead and marry in Washington DC, only to get arrested when they come back. The legal battle takes the forefront, as their undying love for each other sustains through. Ruth Negga received an Academy nomination for her stunningly evocative performance. Edgerton, while not receiving one, was equally good in his role and had a muted and subdued effervescence about him, which indicates towards his belief in dignity speaking louder than eagerness to fight. Jeff Nichols triumphs once more and is quickly developing into a class director and one of my personal favorites.
1. Animal Kingdom (2010)
After his mother’s death, a teen, Joshua moves in with his uncles and grandmother. Joshua’s life takes a threatening twist when he learns that his new family is a mid-level crime syndicate. Though a serious crim-drama, ‘Animal Kingdom’ presents a myriad of comic moments which you don’t see coming. Fueled by its charismatic performances and a thrilling plotline, this crime-drama reigns supreme.
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