This week’s theatrical releases are a mix of coming-of-age drama, nostalgic re-releases, and the return of the iconic Joker. Whether you’re looking for an emotional story or a pulse-pounding adventure, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a ready reckoner.
White Bird: A Wonder Story (English)
Directed by: Marc Forster
Cast: Bryce Gheisar, Helen Mirren, Ariella Glaser, Orlando Schwerdt and Gillian Anderson
This period drama, directed by Marc Forster, is based on R.J. Palacio’s graphic novel, White Bird: A Wonder Story. The film follows Julian (Bryce Gheisar), who has been expelled from Beecher Prep school. He is visited by his grandmother, Sara (Ariella Glaser), who wishes to help him understand true courage. To achieve this, Sara recounts her experience as a young Jewish girl in Nazi-occupied France during World War II. Hidden by her classmate Julien (Orlando Schwerdt), who teaches her in secret, the two develop a deep bond. However, Julien is tragically killed by the Milice during an escape attempt. After the war, Sara reunites with her father but learns her mother perished in Auschwitz.
Joker: Folie à Deux (English)
Directed by: Todd Phillips
Cast: Joaquin Phoenix, Lady Gaga, Brendan Gleeson and Catherine Keener
One of the year’s most anticipated films, Joker: Folie à Deux, sees Joaquin Phoenix reprising his Oscar-winning role as Arthur Fleck, the iconic Joker. He’s joined by Lady Gaga, who plays Joker’s equally wild and unpredictable love interest Harley Quinn. Directed by Todd Phillips, the film moves beyond the gritty drama of the original and delves into musical territory. Set within the eerie walls of Arkham Asylum, the sequel follows Arthur as he confronts his dual identity while awaiting trial. Amid the chaos, he finds love and a new form of expression through music.
One Heart: The A.R. Rahman Concert Film (Hindi, Tamil)
Directed by: YM Movies
Cast: A.R. Rahman
Re-releasing this week is One Heart, a concert documentary that captures the essence of A.R. Rahman’s musical genius. First released in 2017 to celebrate Rahman’s 25 years in the music industry, the film features a collection of his most iconic Hindi and Tamil songs, performed live during his 14-city tour across the U.S. Through interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, it offers an intimate glimpse into Rahman’s life as he shares insights about his creative process and connection with his audience.
Wake Up Sid (Hindi)
Directed by: Ayan Mukerji
Cast: Ranbir Kapoor, Konkona Sensharma, Supriya Pathak, Anupam Kher
Originally released in 2009, Wake Up Sid is a coming-of-age story that resonated with viewers. Directed by Ayan Mukerji, the film follows Sid (Ranbir Kapoor), a laid-back college student who faces the realities of adulthood when life throws him a curveball. With the help of Aisha (Konkona Sensharma), an aspiring writer, Sid discovers responsibility, love, and his true calling – photography. As it returns to theaters, Wake Up Sid gives audiences the chance to revisit Sid’s journey of self-discovery and appreciate the film’s small-yet-meaningful moments that made it a beloved classic.
