Time for change

Blogs, like people, are constantly evolving and changing.... I started this blog when I first discovered blogging and I used to reminisce about anything that was wandering through my mind. It changed through time and shall always hold a special place in my heart.

Now it's time to move on.... I'm going to focus on my number 1 passion - movies and in particular Hollywood film. To catch up with my musings, log on to vineethfilmthoughts.blogspot.com.

See you there!!!

A lack of time.....

  We search and search but we can't get enough of it...... time is that flighty temptress who promises much but delivers less than we want.... I learnt to appreciate the value of time in my two years in Oman. I began this blog years ago inspired by my journalism peers; I continued it in Oman because I had a lot to say to myself and needed a way to get my thoughts out of my head and in this case, it went into the cyber world. 

 And then there was a lull.....not because i didnt have thoughts to share but i couldnt put the fingers to the keyboard to express them. The fingers typed out every site i enjoyed except my own blog. Strange indeed! 

 And now the year is passing and I type these words as a means to portray my inability to do so enough. God has guided me through some amazing experiences and what 2008 has taught me more than anything is that people are constantly evolving. Even when we think we are standing still, we are changing. And if we focus on moving in the right direction, we will find that elusive peace of mind we seek no matter what is happening in our lives. 

If I was addressing myself, there is only one thing I would say at this point: 'Embrace the change and become who you are meant to be'.

Best movies of all time

Somehow I just love this list compiled by fellow blogger and fanboy Allan Bacchus... I just have to agree it is a true fanboy list.

Continuing on...
51. On The Waterfront (1954) dir. Elia Kazan
So far the 40’s and 50’s studio classics are getting shunned for more recent and director-driven films. This Brando-method classic still is the defining film for actors. “I coulda had class…” After a higher #8 and then a #19 placement on the AFI Lists, the fans seem to disagree. Placement on the AFI List #19.

52. L.A. Confidential (1997) dir. Curtis Hanson
Few thought anyone could come close to meeting “Chinatown’s” standard for period noir films. But Curtis Hanson’s film indeed meets the mark. This is clearly a special film that will stand the test of time. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

53. Memento (2001) dir. Christopher Nolan
Another AFI no-show turns out to be one of the favourite films of the fans. This backwards brain-twister received many popular top5 votes. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

54. The Exorcist (1973) dir. William Friedkin
This film was a phenomenon in its day. It seems a little dated now, but the fans have obviously given the film respect for its cultural impact. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

55. Die Hard (1988) dir. John McTiernan
There was little chance this film would ever make the AFI list, but it comes as no surprise that it makes the Fanboy’s list. Perhaps the greatest pure action film of all time. Placement on the AFI List – nil

56. Unforgiven (1992) dir. Clint Eastwood
Though Clint had been making films since 1971, it took almost 20 years for him to deliver his first masterpiece, and he’s delivered 2 or 3 more since then. A remarkable late bloomer. Placement on the AFI List #68.

57. Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969) dir. George Roy Hill
Apart from the extended Burt Bacharach sequence “Butch Cassidy” is invisible to its age. The dialogue, look, and action all seem as modern as it did almost 30 years ago. Placement on the AFI List #73.

58. Rocky (1976) dir. John G. Alvidson
Ok, so what if “Rocky” beat out “Taxi Driver” for the major awards of 1976. The film is still so much fun to watch and as culturally significant as “Taxi Driver.” Another very close call between AFI and the fans. Placement on the AFI List #57.

59. The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957) dir. David Lean
Alec Guinness is fantastic in this film – David Lean’s first on location epic. It’s a grand spectacle, if a bit soft on the war realism. It’s a great character film too. Placement on the AFI List #36.

60. King Kong (1933) dir. Merian C. Cooper, Ernest B. Schoedsack
Two remakes still don’t compare to the power of the original film. How these two independent filmmakers managed to create life out of a 12-inch-tall clay figurine is still a miracle. Placement on the AFI List #41.

61. The Usual Suspects (1995) dir. Bryan Singer
I can still remember the theatre-audience's reaction to the famous cut-to-black at the end of “The Usual Suspects”. There was a collective gasp, and then spontaneous applause. It’s no surprise the love fans still show for this gem of a film. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

62. The Maltese Falcon (1941) dir. John Huston
The title alone can cut glass. The film, too, is a sharp, mean and tough gumshoe noir, with some of the all-time best Hollywood baddies all after the big maguffin – the Maltese Falcon. Placement on the AFI List # 31.

63. Double Indemnity (1944) dir. Billy Wilder
Perhaps the greatest of all of the black and white noir films. It’s a steaming plot twister that established many of the rules of the noir genre. Placement on the AFI List #29.

64. Groundhog Day (1993) dir. Harold Ramis
An ingenious concept executed to comic perfection, and one of the best star vehicle comedies for Bill Murray. If this film wasn’t on the AFI 400 shortlist, it may not have made this list. Cudos to them. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

65. Jurassic Park (1993) dir. Steven Spielberg
"Jurassic Park” doesn’t have the wonderful actors or characters “Jaws” had, and so the film cannot even be compared to that film. But the milestone in CG effects and the tremendous action sequences seems to have warranted inclusion. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

66. Bonnie and Clyde (1967) dir. Arthur Penn
Another milestone film for depiction of violence on screen. The violence shocks us because the film is, for the most part, a happy-go-lucky bank-robbing romp across the United States. Dunaway and Beatty are having so much fun during the film, we can hardly believe our eyes when they are eventually cut down with such violent force. Placement on the AFI List #42.

67. Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939) dir. Frank Capra
This film is such a classic – and a film with so much optimism that it could only have been made in the United States and by one man, Frank Capra. All his films are a treat to watch and to rediscover. - Placement on the AFI List #26.

68. Amadeus (1984) dir. Milos Forman
This is the second film on the list for Milos Forman. It’s one of the most unique portraits of an artist. F. Murray Abraham won a richly-deserved Best Actor Oscar. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

69. Toy Story (1995) dir. John Lasseter
"Toy Story” set the benchmark for all other CG animated films – the animation bristles with kinetic life, but the character and comic situations jump out of the screen as much as the scenery. Placement on the AFI List #99.

70. A Streetcar Named Desire (1951) dir. Elia Kazan
This is my favourite Brando role. It was certainly his breakout performance. It revolutionized acting – it’s one of the top 10 film performances of all time. Placement on the AFI List #47.

71. Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991) dir. James Cameron
A surprise entry, and a hell of a lot of fun to revisit. Back in the day, I can still remember the gigantic hype surrounding the film. It didn’t disappoint. In hindsight, was it better than the first film? Placement on the AFI List – nil.

72. Treasure of the Sierra Madre (1948) dir. John Huston
“Sierre Madre” is a morality tale about greed and another early classic from the multi-talented John Huston whose career spanned five decades. Placement on the AFI List #38.

73. The Third Man (1949) dir. Carol Reed
The exclusion of this film from the AFI list is a shock to me. But the fans have brought it back to the list where it belongs. Though the Fanboy list leans more toward recent films, the inclusion of this timeless classic Euro-noir speaks volumes. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

74. Rebel Without A Cause (1955) dir. Nicholas Ray
Another old classic left out by AFI and rescued by the fans. James Dean pours his heart out on the screen in this melodramatic classic. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

75. Stand By Me (1988) dir. Rob Reiner
This is another fan favourite that stands the test of time. It’s a rare mature film that appeals to young boys and girls and adults and for the same reasons. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

76. Touch of Evil (1957) dir. Orson Welles
Often referred to as the last of the studio noir films, “Touch of Evil” was considered Welles’ comeback film. In fact, his Brando-esque weight gain was just one of the shocking elements of the film. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

77. Dog Day Afternoon (1975) dir. Sidney Lumet
"Dog Day Afternoon” is one of a string of classic performances from Al Pacino. It’s a remarkable film about a gay man who robs a bank in order to pay for his lover’s sex change operation. Believe it or not, despite the risqué logline, the film is played straight as an arrow and was a critical and commercial success. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

78. Ben-Hur (1959) dir. William Wyler
I’m pretty sure “Ben Hur” gets the vote based mainly on one key scene in the film – the monumental chariot race scene. It’s arguably the greatest action scene ever filmed. By the way, the chariot scene in the original 1925 silent version is just as impressive. Check it out as well. Placement on the AFI List #100.

79. Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002) dir. Peter Jackson
So that makes all three LOTR films in the top 100. I can’t disagree that all three are powerful films in their own right. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

80. The Deer Hunter (1978) dir. Michael Cimino
“The Deer Hunter”, other than being very long, is still a powerful film. It’s not just about war, it’s about community, friendship and loyalty. And the Russian roulette scenes are still some of the most intense moments ever put to film. Placement on the AFI List #53.

81. Do the Right Thing (1989) dir. Spike Lee
Spike Lee’s brilliantly constructed and stylized masterpiece is the defining film about racism in urban America. It’s a simmering pot of a rage that boils over in a brilliant third act. It’s one of the great American auteur films of all time. Placement on the AFI List #96.

82. Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977) dir. Steven Spielberg
Steven Spielberg’s skills are best showcased in this film. It’s a film about adults made with childlike innocence. It bristles with lively pace and has that heavenly awe-inspiring quality that only Spielberg can create. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

83. This Is Spinal Tap (1984) dir. Rob Reiner
A landmark film that continues to influence film and television today. The fans clearly know how important and brilliantly funny this film is. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

84. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)
It’s remarkable to think this film was made in 1937 – before colour film was even widely established. The hand-drawn cell animation has that “Disney” quality that can never be recreated. Other than in short films, it’s an art form that’s sadly losing life fast. Placement on the AFI List #34.

85. Platoon (1986) dir. Oliver Stone
Oliver Stone has as many haters as fans. I’m surprised to see “Platoon” as his only entry on this list., because most Stone fans would say it’s not his best film, but it’s certainly his most important and most significant. Placement on the AFI List #86.

86. Braveheart (1995) dir. Mel Gibson
Before 1995, who would ever have thought Mel Gibson could have directed such a passionate and exhilarating epic film such as this. For me the battle scenes are still the best of its kind and have yet to be topped. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

87. Network (1976) dir. Sidney Lumet
“Network” is a fabulous film, written by one of the great writers for film, TV or theatre –Paddy Chayefsky. A terrific cast round out this American classic. Placement on the AFI List #64.

88. Duck Soup (1933) dir. Leo McCarey
The dialogue in this film zings. The pace and rhythm are fast and furious, punchlines are flung at us a mile minute. The comedy is situational, absurd, and slapstick piled on top of each other. Watch for similarities with the Zucker Bros best work 50 years later. Placement on the AFI List #60.

89. The Sixth Sense (1999) dir. M. Night Shyamalan
Though I didn’t see the twist coming, I personally didn’t think much of it, and so I was very surprised when the film’s popularity built up to astronomical proportions. But I’m obviously in the minority. Placement on the AFI List #89.

90. The Sound Of Music (1965) dir. Robert Wise
This film is a guilty pleasure for many fans. From 1965 to 1970 it was the highest grossing film of all time – and when adjusted for inflation it currently sits at #3. Placement on the AFI List #40.

91. Blazing Saddles (1974) dir. Mel Brooks
Fans chose Brooks’ western-comedy over “The Producers” and “Young Frankenstein”. Please go and check out all three of these great films. Placement on the AFI List #40 – nil.

92. Requiem for a Dream (2000) dir. Darren Aronofsky
Like “Fight Club” “Requiem” has grown to become a major influence on young people and young filmmakers. “Requiem” is tough, brutal and emotionally exhausting, but a piece of cinematic art. Placement on the AFI List - nil.

93. Ghostbusters (1984) dir. Ivan Reitman
“Ghostbusters” is such a fun and satisfying film on all levels of entertainment. It’s hard to believe “Ghostbusters” and “Citizen Kane” are on the same list. Wait to go fans! Placement on the AFI List – nil.

94. The Manchurian Candidate (1962) dir. John Frankenheimer
The original political paranoia film. Frankenheimer was one of the best and most innovative American directors of the 60’s and “The Manchurian Candidate” was his best. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

95. All About Eve (1950) dir. Joseph L. Mankiewicz
“All About Eve” was nominated for all the majors Oscars in 1951. It won 6 including Best Picture. And remember Bette Davis’ memorable line, “Fasten your seatbelts, it's going to be a bumpy night". Placement on the AFI List #28.

96. Being John Malkovich (1999) dir. Spike Jonze
It looks like 1999 is one of the most popular years for film fans. Already “Fight Club”, “The Matrix, “The Sixth Sense” and “American Beauty” make the list. That’s 2 more than the storied year of 1939. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

97. Titanic (1997) dir. James Cameron
Though it’s still monumentally ‘uncool’ to like this film, it still gets some closeted love from the fans. Fanboys definitely aren’t cynical. Placement on the AFI List – #83.

98. West Side Story (1960) dir. Robert Wise
I personally prefer this film to “The Sound of Music”, but I’m not complaining. “West Side Story” has so many wonderful and energetic cinematic moments. My personal favourite is the underground dance sequence. Placement on the AFI List – #51

99. Airplane (1980) dir. Jim Abrahams, David Zucker and Jerry Zucker
No surprise the fans love “Airplane”. It’s no doubt one of the funniest films of all time. AFI voters didn’t have the courage to vote for this one. Watch for it's similiaries to the Marx Bros films. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

100. It Happened One Night (1934) dir. Frank Capra
And last but not least, Frank Capra's third film on this list - a classic romantic comedy infamous in it's day for Clark Gable taking off his shirt. Placement on the AFI List #46.

This is an interesting list of films that I enjoyed quite a lot... we movie buffs totally rule.

AFI RELOADED: THE FANBOY 100 - #1-50
After a summer of compiling over 500 entries, I’m pleased to announce the FANBOY 100.Earlier this year the American Film Institute re-voted their top 100 American movies of all time. The first list, compiled in 1998 sparked a great discussion, several TV specials and got people talking about some old classics they hadn’t seen in a while. This year that list was updated to see how the films of the last 10 years would be ranked and to see how our tastes in culture had changed. Please see my posting dissecting some of the differences and similarities of both lists – HERE.There was much discussion from bloggers and fanboys out there – some more passionate and angered than others. Therefore Daily Film Dose spearheaded another vote, using the same guidelines and same short list of films used by the AFI. The result is what I’ve called the “FANBOY 100”. We can now put rest speculations of how the fans may have voted for their favourite films, in comparison to the AFI’s. The major difference of this list is that the Fanboys were allowed the choice of moving off the 400-film short list for as many selections as possible. The AFI allowed only five, which, in my opinion, cuts down the votes significantly. Funny enough, even with the allowance of as many free selections, all of the films below were on the 400 short list.The survey is still not 100% scientifically accurate. The mere fact that there’s a shortlist influences voters to a large degree. Enjoy and discuss.

1. The Godfather (1972) dir. Francis Ford Coppola
Francis Coppola’s masterpiece still reigns supreme as filmed-entertainment of the highest order. Michael Corleone’s character arc from naïve and innocent war-hero to corrupted sadistic maniac is the highest bar for writing and acting. Coppola made the story into a film about family, so it’s fitting, amid all the gangster politics, the first two films boiled down to a story of two brothers and the fateful decision made by Michael which dooms them both forever. Placement on the AFI List: #2

2 Psycho (1960) dir. Alfred Hitchcock
“Psycho” reached only number 14 on the AFI list, but the fans think it’s number 2. Generally considered the first modern horror film, Alfred Hitchcock’s masterpiece is a manipulative piece of cinema, and Hitchcock at his most devious. He sets up a road chase film like his previous “North by Northwest” but instead pulls the rug from under us by killing off his heroine midway through the film. We, as the audience, have no idea what to expect next. “Psycho” is often imitated, never duplicated. Placement on the AFI List: #14

3. Pulp Fiction (1994) dir. Quentin Tarantino
The major line-jumping of “Pulp Fiction” is likely due to the voting demographic – which is much younger, pop-culture savvy and modern. “Pulp Fiction” is the definitive film of our current generation. Thirteen years later, its influence is still being felt today. “Pulp Fiction” not only won the Palme D’Or, it cracked the $100million domestic box office barrier (unheard of for an indie film back then) and was nominated for all the major Oscars – and taking one home for writing. What makes “Pulp Fiction” so unique and so influential? It was the heart and soul of Tarantino put onto film – a film junkie who devoured the medium. He was able to make a film on his own terms, his way, with relatively complete freedom. Special films like this should be celebrated as often as possible. The fans have spoken. Placement on the AFI List: #94.

4. Casablanca (1942) dir. Michael Curtiz
“Casablanca” ranked #3 on the AFI, and here it comes in at #4. Therefore it’s safe to say fans and critics/historians alike are in agreement, “Casablanca” is a great film for everybody. In fact, it’s hard to find someone who doesn’t like the film. What is the attraction to “Casablanca”? It was a cookie-cutter studio film that rose to the top as the best and greatest example of the entertaining value of the Hollywood formula – a tight script which practically invented the screenwriting template, dynamic and attractive stars (Bogart and Bergman), and top notch supporting players (Sidney Greenstreet, Peter Lorre, Claude Rains). Placement on the AFI List: #3

5. Citizen Kane (1941) dir. Orson Welles
Believe it or not, I received a lot of hate mail about this film. For the many of you who revere the film, there’s a whole lot of ‘anti-Kaners’ out there, but not enough to excise it from the top 5. Kane is still influential, though not untouchable. AFI picked it twice in a row as the top film. Technically the film is brilliant and innovative. Everyone should watch the special features and listen to Roger Ebert’s commentary on the DVD. The film is a magic show. Welles, in his youth, was a magician, and his sleight of hand in evident all over the film. No matter how many times you see it, “Citizen Kane” can always be re-discovered. Placement on the AFI List #1.

6. Schindler's List (1993) dir. Steven Spielberg
“Schindler’s List” is also consistently a favourite among critics and fans. Upon its release Spielberg was praised for maturing as a director and telling an adult story, an important story, without his traditional artifices. Indeed, the palpable realism is powerful, but Spielberg’s eye is always present. Watch for some of his signature movements and compositions hidden in the handheld ‘verite’-style camerawork. Placement on the AFI List: #8.

7. Goodfellas (1990) dir. Martin Scorsese
Scorsese was very popular with the fans. The AFI voters had “Raging Bull” as his masterpiece, but the fans obviously love the Liotta, De Niro, Pesci and Sorvino gangsters better. And I agree. While “Raging Bull” rages with anger and fury, “Goodfellas” is more fun, energetic and audience-pleasing. Who can forget the awesome moment when Henry Hill, who has been narrating the film in voiceover, suddenly turns to camera in his trial, breaks the fourth wall and talks to camera? It’s a risky device, but it’s so natural for Scorsese and only elevates the film to awesome brilliance. Congrats Marty. Placement on the AFI list #92!

8. Apocalypse Now (1979) dir. Francis Ford Coppola
Coppola is the man. Two films in the top ten, and one more standing by at #11. The legend and awe of “Apocalypse Now” grows and grows. It’s the epitome of the pure sacrifice filmmakers give to their films. Coppola took years off his life making it, and though it garnered a Palme D’Or and some Oscar nods, it was the fanboys who helped put the film on its high pedestal. You should all be given credit, and a pat on the back. Placement on the AFI list #30.

9. Dr. Strangelove: Or How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb (1964) dir. Stanley Kubrick
To Kubrick fans, it will come as no surprise that this film tops his other films, including “2001” and “A Clockwork Orange”. It’s the benchmark for black comedies – The "Citizen Kane” of black comedies. Virtually untouchable, razor-sharp and flawless. Placement on the AFI List # 39.

10. Star Wars (1977) dir. George Lucas
“Star Wars’” influence speaks for itself. I need not say anymore. Placement on the AFI List #13.
11. Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981) dir. Steven Spielberg
I thought “Raiders” might top “Schindler’s” in the fan voting, but I was wrong. If people thought “Star Wars” was fun, exuberant adventure cinema, Spielberg and Lucas miraculously topped it with “Raiders of the Lost Ark.” Like Tarantino’s “Pulp Fiction”, it’s a film made by a couple of filmmakers who devoured a different type of cinema in their youth – the B-movie adventure serial. Lucas and Spielberg mashed up “Tarzan”, “Buck Rodgers”, “Flash Gordon” and more to create the iconic franchise. Placement on the AFI List #65.

12. The Godfather Part II (1974) dir. Francis Ford Coppola
The second “Godfather” film is the high bar for film sequels. In Part II the film turns even darker than the somber ending of the first film. Michael Corleone has morphed into a sadistic killer and an unemotional robot. There is very little semblance of the same character we were introduced to in the first film. Perhaps the most remarkable scene in the film is the second to last scene, when Coppola flashes back to the dinner table scene where we see Connie meet Carlo. Not only do we get to see Sonny again, but we get to see Michael before he was corrupted and tempted by the dark side. And we’re also reminded of one of the biggest ‘what ifs’ in cinema history. What if Brando reprised the role as Vito Corleone for that scene? We can only dream. Placement on the AFI List #32

13. Taxi Driver (1976) dir. Martin Scorsese
“Taxi Driver” was Scorsese’s major breakthrough film. Though “Mean Streets” and “Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore” brought him critical attention, Scorsese became a household name with “Taxi Driver”. The film works because of the trifecta of talent – Scorsese, Robert De Niro and Paul Schrader. It’s the definitive film for cinematic loners. Placement on the AFI List #52

14. Jaws (1975) dir. Steven Spielberg
“Jaws” was a sensation in 1975. Not only was it then the most successful film of all time, it gave birth to the summer blockbuster tent pole films that now finance practically everything in mainstream Hollywood. Under immense pressure and stress of a skyrocketing budget, schedule delays, a mechanical shark that didn’t work and a doubting studio, Spielberg, like Coppola in “Apocalypse Now” put his creativity to the test and came out a winner. Placement on the AFI List #56.

15. The Shawshank Redemption (1994) dir. Frank Darabont
There’s a reason “Shawshank” is tied for the top-rated film on the IMDB, just about everybody loves the film. Darabont’s interpretation of Stephen King’s short story is part prison film, part Capra fantasy. Morgan Freeman’s earnest voiceover sets the tone early, but it’s the surprising second act turn that elevates the film to greatness. Though it was nominated for seven Oscars, the film wasn’t really discovered by the public until its video release. Word of mouth quickly turned this film into a classic.

16. One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975) dir. Milos Forman
Like “Shawshank”, just about everybody loves “Cuckoo’s Nest.” It’s a simple story so thoroughly entertaining and satisfying with solid star-making performances, dramatic plot twists and an ample dose of the 50's/60’s rebellious attitude. Aside from the anchor elements of Ken Kesey’s novel, Jack Nicholson and Louise Fletcher, for me, the heart of the film is ‘Chief’ the gentle giant mute who ends the film with possibly the most tearjerking yet uplifting endings of all time. It brings chills to my skin each and every time I watch it. Placement on the AFI List #33.

17. Silence of the Lambs (1991) dir. Jonathan Demme
A slew of serial killer films have been released since “Silence of the Lambs” – including three Lector sequels/prequels. Aside from David Fincher’s equally impressive “Se7en” “Silence of the Lambs” still rocks its competition. The film is only one of three films to win all four major Oscar categories – Actor, Actress, Picture, Director, Screenplay. But the fact it performed so well as a genre film at awards season is incredible. Placement on the AFI List #74.

18. A Clockwork Orange (1971) dir. Stanley Kubrick
"Clockwork" is the second favourite Kubrick film for the fans. The success of this film is staggering as well. Despite the family-unfriendly subject matter, and having a protagonist who rapes and murders people and gets away with it, the film was Warner Bros’ highest-grossing film of that year. Is that a testament to the times or the power of the film? A bit of both I suspect. Few films and filmmakers since have been able to make such subject matter a commercial success. Placement on the AFI List #70.

19. Rear Window (1954) dir. Alfred Hitchcock
This comes as no surprise to me that “Rear Window” is the second favourite Hitchcock film for the fans. “Vertigo” is revered by the international critics, but “Rear Window” trumps “Vertigo” as popular cinema. The concept is so simple and effective – a wheelchair bound emasculated man has only a window through which to view and interact with society. We all can relate to Jimmy Stewart in the film because there’s a voyeur in all of us. Placement on the AFI List #48.

20. The Wizard of Oz (1939) dir. Victor Fleming
The name “The Wizard of Oz” has so much cache it was an almost automatic inclusion on the list. It is a wonderful film, and the top musical on the list. But it’s not the musical numbers that make the film great – it’s the fantastical new world Dorothy enters, perfectly represented by the famous door opening transition from black & white to colour. Placement on the AFI List #10.

21. Empire Strikes Back (1980) dir. Irvin Kirschner
This is the most telling entry. In the AFI List “Star Wars” placed #13 – “Empire Strike Back” was non-existent. Clearly the voters (critics, historians etc) lumped all the “Star Wars” into one and named the first film as the best. Now “Empire” gets to be represented as a separate and distinct ‘great’ film unto its own. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

22. E.T. The Extra Terrestrial (1982) dir. Steven Spielberg
After so many years “E.T.” still captures the fans' hearts as a story about a friendship between a boy and Reeces Pieces-loving alien. Placement on the AFI List #25

23. Chinatown (1974) dir. Roman Polanski
“Chinatown” established its own subgenre of noir films. “L.A. Confidential” is the only worthy rival to “Chinatown’s” crown as the noir-king. An interesting double bill would be David Lynch’s subversive “Mulholland Drive”. Placement on the AFI List #19

24. 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968) dir. Stanley Kurbrick
Stanley’s Kubrick’s existential sci-fi still divides some people, but at #24, it’s still a popular and powerful film and a benchmark for the genre. Placement on the AFI List #15

25. Raging Bull (1980) dir. Martin Scorsese
“Raging Bull” made a major jump into the AFI top 5, but according to the fans, it’s not his most popular film. It’s as much a violent and disturbing film about domestic abuse as it is about boxing. It’s a tough film to watch, and clearly not as fun or audience-friendly as “Goodfellas”. Placement on the AFI List #4

26. To Kill a Mockingbird (1960) dir. Robert Mulligan
The honourable presence of Gregory Peck anchors this important film about civil rights in the segregated U.S. South. It made many top 5 lists, especially among women. Placement on the AFI List #25.

27. The Graduate (1967) dir. Mike Nichols
Even though we are long gone from the 60’s for the young Fanboy voters, “The Graduate” is still relevant as a statement of the transition period from youth to adulthood. Nichols’ direction is as fresh and fun as it was 40 years ago. Placement on the AFI List #17.

28. It's a Wonderful Life (1946) dir. Frank Capra
Frank Capra’s quintessential Christmas film is seen by new audiences every year. As soon as the film ceases to be relevant to our lives broadcasters won’t play it on television every year. And there’s no indication that that will happen any time soon. Placement on the AFI List #20.

29. Fight Club (1999) dir. David Fincher
This is the second most notable entry – David Fincher’s neo-cult classic “Fight Club”. Most critics and audiences dismissed the film as nihilistic excess when the film was originally released. But for film junkies under 20, it’s grown in stature to be the “Taxi Driver” of their generation. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

30. Vertigo (1958) dir. Alfred Hitchcock
“Vertigo” in critics’ circles in generally considered Hitchcock’s masterpiece. In the recent AFI list it jumped to #9 and placed #2 in the last ‘Sight and Sound’ poll. Clearly fans aren’t as enamored with the film as critics. Placement on the AFI List #9

31. Fargo (1996) dir. Joel Coen
There were many cries afoul when “Fargo” got knocked off the new AFI list. The fans have spoken again and the Coens are represented with a respectable #30. Placement on the AFI List – nil

32. Gone With the Wind (1939) dir. Victor Fleming
Again, some respect for what still is the inflation-adjusted box office champion of all time. Placement on the AFI List #6

33. North by Northwest (1959) dir. Alfred Hitchcock
This is not one of my favourite Hitchcock films, but hey, it’s not my list. Hitchcock’s espionage romp across the USA has some particularly wonderful suspense sequences, specifically the famous and fabulous crop duster scene. Placement on the AFI List #55.

34. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001) dir. Peter Jackson
I thought the recency effect of the huge popular franchise might dominate and propel the Rings films higher than this. But #33 is a respectable number for a new entry into cine-history. Placement on the AFI List #50.

35. Lawrence of Arabia (1962) dir. David Lean
A critical fave of the AFI voters, David Lean’s epic just doesn’t seem to have the likeability with the fans. With reduced attention spans, perhaps it’s the 227 mins running time. Placement on the AFI List #7.

36. The Shining (1980) dir. Stanley Kubrick
Kubrick’s horror masterpiece didn’t even crack the AFI Top 100. But since fans are not genre phobic, and “The Shining” is generally considered one of the greatest horror films of all time, it’s not surprising it’s up to #36. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

37. Annie Hall (1977) dir. Woody Allen
This is the only Woody Allen to make either list His other great films – “Crime and Misdemeanors” and “Manhattan” received some good quality vote counts, but just couldn’t crack the 100. Placement on the AFI List – #35

38. Back to the Future (1985) dir. Robert Zemeckis
One of the great fan films of all time gets some much needed respect. Thanks voters for counting this 80’s classic. Placement on the AFI List – nil

39. Singin' In the Rain (1952) dir. Gene Kelly, Stanley Donen
This film is routinely considered the greatest musical of all time. The male-centric youth who dominated the voter demographic has something to do with the difference in placements with the AFI list. Placement on the AFI List #5.

40. Sunset Blvd. (1951) dir. Billy Wilder
Fans and critics both love this film. It’s quality noir about the dark side of Hollywood and celebrityism. Placement on the AFI List #16.

41. 12 Angry Men (1957) dir. Sidney Lumet
Sidney Lumet’s chamber-drama is a classic film – essentially an investigative crime film told entirely within a jury room. It’s a brilliant concept executed perfectly thanks to a great team of actors led by the soft-spoken Henry Fonda. Placement on the AFI List #87.

42. The Matrix (1999) dir. Andy and Larry Wachowski
If the sequels had been more successful “The Matrix” would have scored higher. Up until “Reloaded” and “Revolutions” came out the first “Matrix” was the “Star Wars” of the computer/internet generation. Even with the extreme negative reaction to the other two the first film has survived as an influential film. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

43. Saving Private Ryan (1998) dir. Steven Spielberg
Steven Spielberg’s powerful film re-invented the modern war film and established the new cinematic language of war. Every battle scene from here on in will be compared to the first 25 mins of “Saving Private Ryan”. Placement on the AFI List #71.

44. Blade Runner (1982) dir. Ridley Scott
“Blade Runner” has grown into one of the all-time great sci-fi films, standing side-by-side with “Star Wars” and “2001: A Space Odyssey”. Ridley Scott combines stunning visual effects with an existential story about the nature of humanity. Placement on the AFI List #97.

45. The Lord of The Rings: The Return Of The King (2003) dir. Peter Jackson
Jackson’s achievement in making each LOTR chapter bigger and better is a triumph. His use of CGI, trick photography, costume design and all other forms of in-camera special effects to achieve his vision is astonishing. And to think he made them all at the same time. It's mind-boggling. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

46. Alien (1979) dir. Ridley Scott
Ridley Scott’s “Blade Runner” and “Alien” is one of the great career one-two punches in cinema. Two sci-fi films, completely different in style – one, a monster film masquerading as sci-fi and the other a film noir masquerading as sci-fi. Genius. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

47. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2003) dir. Michel Gondry
Like “Shawshank Redemption” this Gondry/Kaufman concoction, in a very short time, has become many people’s favourite film. It’s a great film, but the immense popularity of this little gem definitely took me by surprise. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

48. Some Like It Hot (1959) dir. Billy Wilder
Men in drag is classic go-to humour. Jack Lemmon and Tony Curtis did it better than anybody. But it’s Marilyn Monroe who’s magnetic and impossible to take your eyes off. Placement on the AFI List #22

49. American Beauty (1999) dir. Sam Mendes
"American Beauty” didn’t make the AFI List despite being a generational-defining film for many people. Perhaps it’s Mendes’ arguably declining work since this debut film. Placement on the AFI List – nil.

50. Forrest Gump (1994) dir. Robert Zemeckis
“Forrest Gump” is finally bested by “Pulp Fiction”. But the earnest audience-pleaser actually ranked higher in the Fanboy list than either AFI List. Placement on the AFI List #76.

Tele--Vision

In that somnambulistic state before sleep came to me last night I found myself thinking back to my very first impressions of Tele--Vision. It occured to me that TV has never been an idle pastime even in the early days when I had fooled myself into thinking so. There was something deeper – a deeper thread that links one to the other that we cannot quite explain. Not so much subliminal message as an empathic connection that ties you to what is going on or airing in that cuboid box. It is like a glimpse into another reality, which I guess it is – no matter how much fantasy we think resides there – the fact is that there is no singular reality. The vision that one connects with the tele is one that reaches deep within to stir hearts and minds. The redundant viewer sadly will never get to appreciate that. People find their self-realisation in various ways but not enough find that truth that resides in laying bare all you are to tele-vision. Tears will be spilt, lives will be shaken and it will be living, believe me. Only as far as we seek can we go, only as far as we dream can we be.

Memoirs of the Deep

The Fire Inside

Why is it sometimes we are so weak?
A puppet to the strings whose control we seek.
The fire burns inside, sin so simple but all around,
The solution not earthly or easily found.
The path so righteous is blurring before me,
The Lord only can sustain me.
Forgive us Lord, forgive us all,
For the sins into which we so continually fall.
Let us douse the fire once and for all,
Knowing how many lives we constantly maul.
Let us count our blessings ever believing,
That faith will guide us through, our burden relieving.
Even the toughest path can in an instant be so clear,
That regressive torment cannot hold me or come near.
Let us seek with might but ever leaving,
The rest in hands so wide always receiving.
In wondrous ways, the future unfolds,
Not fire, but warmth it holds.
Ever speaking, making one glad,
Of the grace of the creator, we all have had.
Thank you Father, for what we are and where,
To what we'll be, mould us and take us there.

Reflections of a Strange Flat

Part III Miles Away

A million miles from home,
My legs struggle to roam,
The sun beats down on me,
As far as the eye can see,
Strange voices in a crazy land,
Born out of nothing but pure sand,
To live as one does, dreaming of old stories,
That are kept alive by your own memories,
Far from home am I, so it seems,
Impossible to leave except in my dreams,
Trapped in my own mind,
Fiddler on a roof of a certain kind,
Visions of people and places do I feel,
Nothing ever felt so far, yet so real.
Father, father your help I need,
To ease the pain of distance on which I feed,
Send me an angel or a mirage of truth,
Fill my heart and my sorrows soothe,
Let me forget the miles and see from afar,
The life before me, a new door is ajar.

Reflections of an Empty Flat

Part - II The Silence

Oh! When I see the bareness before me.
How I pray for the hint of company.
The silence is most still even it is the loudest day outside.
The loudest silence I have ever felt.
The emptiness is deathly and it closes in.
Oh! To hate to be in the silence of the empty flat.
But to know that we all live by choices in life.
Oh! How weak is our faith in God.
He can speak to you through a pamphlet dropped at the door.
That brings more joy than you ever thought possible.
Suddenly you are attuned to every little sound.
Almost as if waiting for the silence to be broken.
But praying that the sounds that come are not from creatures hidden.
So you take it upon yourself to put some music in your life.
But suddenly, even though you have heard the words before.
And certainly know some of the songs by heart.
The lyrics have a whole new meaning.
As if you are truly feeling them for the very first time.
You scream out the words at the top of your voice.
As if you are the end to the silence.
Which, in a way, I guess I am.
I find myself talking to me more.
As if the entities could separate, and be the companionship that you crave.
Oh Lord! Sweet God of mercy.
Make this silence grow on me.

Reflections of an empty flat

Part - I Alone

No matter how much you think it.
No matter how much you know you feel it.
You never really fully understand it.
The different levels of loneliness.
I thought I knew it.
I thought I was prepared.
I thought I knew what 'alone' meant.
But when it comes to flying solo, there isn't a manual.
Life throws it up at you.
You pray you know how to handle it.
You feel both peace and pain.
Along the road that is the path of gain.
You can be alone in a crowd.
You can be alone in your thoughts.
Alone in your pain,
alone inside your heart,
alone in your beliefs,
alone in your dreams,
alone in your fears,
But you are never really alone when you have faith in God.
Look for the light in the darkness.
Pray for loneliness to teach you life's lessons,
that only solitude can.
Oh! loneliness, I pray that I can used to you.
Oh! hollowness, I say goodbye to you.
Oh Lord, cleanse my soul.
And give me the peace that the world cannot.
And cannot ever take away.

THE FIVE BEST DAYS OF MY LIFE - Nelly and Shruthi's wedding

Thank you most of all to Nelson and Shruthi for giving me the five most wonderful days of my life. With memories I'll never let go of and a closeness that is impossible to express, Shruthi and Nelly made the celebration of their marriage a time when I felt truly grateful that I had the amazing privilege of calling them friends and family.

I guess these days were really all about family. Like how Nelly and Shruthi always made you feel like a brother or a sister. How Saikat's emotional speech tugged at your heartstrings. How Sharon made you smile and laugh. How Sanjaya made you raise an eyebrow. How ACJ 2004 really is a big family. I think Nelly said it best: "You know guys, what was special about ACJ was that every one of those 90 odd people was unique and they all brought something special to us."

The last five days may have gone by in a flash but there was something to cherish in every moment. Looking back, one can only get teary eyed reminiscing after barely a day has passed. It was simply surreal seeing all of you again and we missed a lot those who couldn't make it. Seeing Nelson and Shruthi together, seeing them happier than you would ever imagine possible for two people to be, reinforces your faith in how beautiful life can be.

I love you both. I feel really lucky to have been able to be a part of this very special time in your lives.

Vineeth

HARRY POTTER MANIAAAA!!!!!!!

Oh God, the anticipation....... After months and years of waiting. It's finally here. I can't believe it. Its finally going to happen. its gonna happen tonight. I first heard she was releasing quite a few months back. On the first day that orders opened online, i gave mine in.

Five months later, the date is here. She is gonna open up her pages and let the world in on the secrets of the future of the boy wizard. Mann, its been a tempestous week - ive reread the harry potter books in anticipation of the sixth. Oh, the sweet agony of expectation.

Too bad bookstores in India are not opening at midnight or have elaborate launch parties with harry potter themes and huge investments. Trust me, I'll be there 6.30 in the morning (special opening time only for July 16) at least to get a glimpse of one that i believe is one of the greatest works of fiction.

When there seemed to be no niches left to carve in literature, what did Joanne Kathleen Rowling Murray do - she carved one. It is the culmination of how miraculous life can be - God provides a path paved with obstacles but perseverence and fortitude will see you through.

I can't wait to travel through that world one more time because the underlying theme is one of humanity, of learning something everyday and praying for a better future.

Joine me in celebrating the phenomenon that is known as HARRY POTTER!!!!!

Isn't it IRONIC !!!

Its nice to get back to blogging after a very long time. Guess you could say life kinda pushed me back here... gave me something to write about.

I always thought of myself as this guy who couldnt wait to start working, that was of course after i finally decided i knew what it was that i wanted to do. I held myself to only one rule - do something that you love, that you can enjoy doing as long as you do it.

I didnt really think it was a tall order. So that was the plan. Decide what to do... get a job... work till you drop. So now that i was sure of these aspects, one thing i thought i was sure about was that when i do get the job, im gonna stick on for a long time.

And believe me, for the longest time i truly believed that. Even when ACJ came to a close, i was still under this impression. But you know, life doesnt turn out the way you think it will. So there i was - the guy who thought he was gonna hold on to a job for dear life - taking the stride into the job market...

Isn't it ironic.... 11 months on.... The person who thought he was a keeper turned out - he was looking for something he couldnt quite find. The jobs were varied - they may not have seemed that way but believe me they were. Some jobs had - bad memories, horrible bosses, triumphant days, joys of a job well done, celebrating a million new beginnings, exclamations from those who heard about it, "No, don't tell me, No." Fingers counting off the jobs and the days.

Isn't it ironic - what he thought 11 months ago did not come to pass - and guess what, he has no regrets, none at all. its been a great year. He just thanks God for the wonderful opportunities to experience so many different places and people. How many people can say they felt what it was to work in so many varied situations? I learnt something from every one of them.

Now on to stability... still looking for something to hang on to. atleast until the west wind comes calling yet again. But one of these days, i just may not answer her call at all. Then i guess at that point, i would have come full circle.... isn't it IRONIC.

You all know the song....

An old man turned ninety-eight
He won the lottery and died the next day
It's a black fly in your Chardonnay
It's a death row pardon two minutes too late
Isn't it ironic... don't you think

It's like rain on your wedding day
It's a free ride when you've already paid
It's the good advice that you just didn't take
Who would've thought... it figures

Mr. Play It Safe was afraid to fly
He packed his suitcase and kissed his kids good-bye
He waited his whole damn life to take that flight
And as the plane crashed down he thought "Well, isn't this nice."
And isn't it ironic ... don't you think

Well life has a funny way of sneaking up on you
When you think everything's okay and everything's going right
And life has a funny way of helping you out
When you think everything's gone wrong and everything blows up in your face

A traffic jam when you're already late
A no-smoking sign on your cigarette break
It's like 10,000 spoons when all you need is a knife
It's meeting the man of my dreams
And then meeting his beautiful wife
And isn't it ironic... don't you think
A little too ironic.. and yeah I really do think...

Life has a funny way of sneaking up on you
Life has a funny, funny way of helping you out
Helping you out

The world smiles at you

Have you ever felt the immense joy from just gazing, understanding, watching a person smile. It is definitely a joy like no other.
The other day on my way to work i stopped at a traffic light alongside a school bus. As i was waiting for the light to change, i looked up at the windows of the bus. There were these two little girls who had their pencil boxes open and were showing each other the contents.
My mind just rewound to years back about how easy it was for us to be happy about some many things in our lives. I imagined their conversation as i watched their faces break into smiles. "That one is so nice, naa. 5 rupees only. Come, we'll share this 'pen-pencil' today." They laughed so happily i felt myself break into a smile thinking: "enjoy every bit of your time, dears. there's nothing else in life quite like it."
Another night I was driving home and I was at another traffic intersection and the signal was not on. I stopped and noticed a scooter coming from the right with two women sitting on it. They slowed down too obviously thinking I was going ahead. I nodded that they should proceed. However, the women driving gestured for me to go. This went on for a bit. When i finally inched forward, so did they. Surprised at each other's actions, she broke into the most wonderful smile which I reciprocated at the same time. She did go ahead, the smile never leaving her face. Something about it was so incredibly sweet.
Later that week, at church there was a baptism of a really cute little baby girl. The girl started making the loudest noises she could. From loud gurgles to earnest proclamations, you couldnt help but smile when a baby makes noises as beautiful as that. I looked to my right and i found I wasn't the only one. This woman had her eyebrows arched, listening intently and smiling once, twice, thrice one after another. She was loving just listening to the sounds of the baby.
Today, as I write this at the internet centre, I'm thinking back trying to recall whats making me write all this. I look beyond the computer and I see this teenage girl sitting typing at another computer and as she hits a few keys keeps on smiling and breaks into laughter a few times. Just chatting (obviously) but finding so much joy in it. Then it hits me. IT is a unique feeling just gazing at people smile. Its wonderful and I realised it is enough to overcome you and make forget about everything else. There really is so much beauty in the world.

Back to the beginning - the return to ACJ story

We entered from the road from the opposite direction - I'm so used to entering from the other side
A trip back to where it all began...
I feel this tingling in my gut - I have definitely felt it before
Noo, it couldn't be, could it? What else could be the reason? it has to be...
Flashes of memory - of moments long ago - of feelings felt and never forgotten
The first time - the entrance exam - i felt the tingle - it was much more
The first day- it was there but different
The return - the tingle is back as Nelly screeches up the entrance
I park where i always do - but something feels different this time
We walk back into our past - a picture of something special
a look at Yolanda's surprise - like something she least expected
a few glances around...
A girl hurries past - short hair, glasses, a purposeful walk -- I'm guessing a broadcast student - story due on Monday.

A trip up the stairs - scenes of long ago - more memories of the past
When we looked at seniors with unfamilar faces in the known crowd
Now we were the unknown faces...at least with one exception... "SAIKAT" a voice travels
"You must be Saikat Niyogi" , "yes thats right" a tone trying to sound surprised
A walk up the stairs past a sweet face buried in a book - this batch's Chinmayi perhaps

We pass our lockers and stop and tug at some handles to remember the times like they used to be
We stand or kneel at our lockers and look at each other - "Man, those were the days"
Meet the lab guy - to whom i ask, "does the server still keep crashing?" to which he nods saying,"it happens." Some things never change.
Enter the library - the cemetery more likely- the silence is deathly- you can hear a pindrop.
You'd think it was empty- but they were as many people as on some days when we had quizes.
A guy on the leftmost desk had six books piled one on top of the other.
A few upward glances and they return to their work.

A stroll to peruse past accomplishments - the word
The glances as we walk by become more knowing - is it who they think it is?
The approach - Three quick steps followed by two slower ones - the girl reaches the shelf
"Are you Saikat Niyogi?" "Yes, and you are...
An extravagant hand movement followed by a step closer and a lean ... words whispered that were hardly audible
too late, two males had arrived realsing who it was that was here.
a conversation ensues mainly about woes of ACJ and questions whether it gets better
The decibel level goes slightly higher
Enter long hair, smile, Live life to the fullest attitude - "Are you guys having the key issues meeting here?"
"Oh, sorry" on seeing an unfamiliar face.
She walks straight past, reaches for the nearest book and listens.
The sound level increases a little more... A loud SHHHHHH..... from the nearest table
Ooooooh, thats cold! She looks like someone we know and sounds like someone else we know.
The ACJ batch of 2004 seems to have a lot of clones in the current batch to whom they have passed many of their qualities.

The labs are pretty much the same ...the messages are in early this year
"DOnt you dare sit here", "i'll be right back" "This is my comp" - For God's sake, even the names of the people are the same. Ah there's a new name - even that sounds like a name we know.
Another clone starts on her work - her voice and her mannerisms are uncannily familiar.

A trip to the terrace to catch up with one from the present batch
Oh there is something new - the railings - for safety - guess now there's no risk of anyone falling off now
We walk to the table in the centre of the terrace
We pause - look at it and at each other - we're thinking the same thing and are speechless until Nelly puts it in words...
"You can see them, can't you? She'll be sitting here next to this person and talkin to that person drinking coffee." We see them there and reminisce about priceless memories...
"Mann, we miss ACJ so much."

So long farewell to a dear friend

Chennai's loss is Bangalore's gain

So I wished goodbye and all the best to someone who's a close friend
but so much more. Someone great to talk to. Someone wonderful to meet.
I sat looking at faces of not long ago - yet time has really passed
but when we meet it really seems to dissolve
We're picking up right where we dropped off
Smiles all around and im thinking life was made for moments like this
laughter echoes across the night sky-who cares about whos listening
we took the table outside to scream as loud as we want

the glow of small lamps dimly light up our surroundings
it has an almost candlelight quality to it-like the light from streetlight seen through a window on a dark night
the darkness only broken momentarily through the flashes of my camera
Confused but bright expressions respond to the flashes
conversation never felt so good - why is it so rare

As i write this - i hear the song "one in a million" by Bosson
I can't help thinking how appropriate some things can be
She certainly is one in a million,
something special inside which she wears so well
People like you truly let us figure out what life's all about
its about the journey- and people like you make the journey so worthwhile
thanks for everything-for jus bein you
enjoy Bangalore Cheryl- we'll miss you
We'll see you soon.

The tears we shed - Part I Super Sunday

The American independence day---the 4th of july. A day of happenings every sports lover dreams of. A day which comes very rarely in the space of a few years seeming some cosmic occurence like a solar eclipse.
It was Super Sunday as it was known. A day i would be likely never to forget-- a day every sports lover will forever rue to have missed. The quantity and choice was enough to make you cry. The only comfort could be the remote in your hand playing God and asking u to pick one or flip among them.
Taking it from the top, Cricket ENgland show their true colours-though Stephen Harmison may be an emerging star, England has a long way to go to be world beaters. New Zealand put them in their place. Fleming on 99 misses out on well-deserved century. Across the oceans, Sri Lanka struggled to salvage some pride without Muralitharan's services against Australia. >>FLIP channel<< Formula 1 The French Grand prix, Schumacher works harder and smarter than he ever has to put it past Fernando Alonso, who is taken aback that he can be beaten by someone who taken four pit stops to his three. A Further shock awaits the Renault team as Jarno Trulli was to lose his podium place fifty metres from the finish line to Rubens Barrichello.
>>FLIP<< What is there to watch in the LPGA tour these days with upstarts like Anika Sorenstam soaring high no matter what her real ability is, and if her main challenge comes from 14 year old Michelle Wie, what more can one say? >>Flip<< Hockey Germany fights to win the four nation tournament against Holland and India plays its worst ever tournament losing all its matches by a large margin inspite of more than enough corner opportunities to score.
Tennis, Wimbledon The 118th Wimbledon Champiosnhips heralded the rise of Maria Sharapova and sublime excellence of Roger Federer. If she brought you to tears when she beat Lindsay Davenport coming back from the brink, even more were shed when she spoke after winning the championship against Serena Williams, such honesty was enough to catch a glimpse of her soul. Federer came up against some missiles from Andy Roddick but walked through. "i threw everything including the kitchen sink at him" Roddick would say after, "but he went to the bathroom and got his bathtub." Federer is the surely the champ who is here to stay.
EURO 2004 Long Live the Underdog. For those like me who love to support the underdogs, euro 2004 was a dream come true. These particular underdogs did not do it by fluke. they worked to a plan--it wasnt flashy, it wasnt rocket science. The others simply did not have an answer. Thierry Henry and Zinedine Zidane didnt, top scorer Milan Baros and his pals tried but could not find one. The hosts tried twice but came up short. Charisteas and Zagorakis have become household names and evry player now can demand million dollar contracts from the big clubs. Well Done, GReece, the biggest surprise of euro 2004.
Through the triumph and the heartache of super sunday there is also a tear for being lucky enough to witness it this day.

Disillusioned/Livin' on a prayer

Everything can seem so vague and uncertain
When you get immersed in the details
I feel so suspended at times
when I lose the vision of the eternities
Playing the waiting game can be hard
when it turns out to be a numbers game
But in Living on a prayer lies the hope
The patience and strength not to lose hope
Living on a prayer keeps the spirits up
When will all the uncertainty end?
Let prayer show you His way

Like the last words of "The Count of Monte Cristo"
"Only God knows what the future will bring.
And until He decides to reveal that future to man,
man must simply wait and hope...wait and hope."

Like the words of the matchbox 20 song, "bent"
If I fall along the way
Pick me up and dust me off
And if I get too tired to make it
Be my breath so I can walk
Give me more than I can stand
When my smile gets old and faded
Wait around I’ll smile again

Can, you help me
I’m bent
I’m so scared that I’ll never
Get put back together
Keep breakin’me in
And this is how we live

Like the words of "living on a prayer"
We've got to hold on to what we've got . . .
We're half way there - Livin' on a prayer. . .
We've got to hold on ready or not
You live for the fight when it's all that you've got.
We're half way there - Livin' on a prayer

The Day of the eagles

It was a day like any other. except that it wasnt. it was a Sunday-- a very long Sunday as it seemed. Was on my way down Greams Road, stray thoughts whistling through my head like the words of a 'No Doubt' song. I look up and i see you. You came in with the breeze. On sunday afternoon. I never thought you could be that way. A flock of eagles, so many in number i had never seen before just floating, around each other. I took a mental picture thinking to myself i should not forget this. How beautiful it is.
Wings so full of stillness as if giving you time to know who they are. The gliding is so slow you are happy if life slows down just enough to see it that clearly.
Thoughts strayed to the destination at hand. Oh yeah, another occasion when time slows as you enter the place where u have spent a hundred getogethers with the people who u have known you much longer than most. We were like those eagles who used to set out on our lives but ever so often come together to celebrate the fact that we have each other. We laughed, played, grew up, watched each other change. Somehow, when we were spending time together the hours seemed like minutes. And the months between reunions were forgotten. When u were at odds with the world, these people always seemed to take you out of your mind. They have their hang-ups sure, a whole bunch of 'em but somehow yet they testify everytime they see you that blood is thicker than water.
Of course, they may not seem as enthusiastic as we were in the old days, but neither am I. But what i'm sure we all feel in some degree is gladness for having what many others dont. Sometimes you just feel time slowing down in between a card game of "bluff" as eyes float from one to the other trying to see who can read the other the best. Or when we used to play "Dumb Charades" the sheer pleading in the eyes of the person imploring u to guess correctly all stay ingrained in your memories. Suddenly especially when your mind wanders sometimes in the middle of a good time, thinking back to your life which seems so far away, You freeze the smiles and beautiful expressions on the faces around, thankful for being so lucky. Suddenly, a voice breaks through those thoughts; "Vineeth, its your turn."
Sure our interests changed, we evolved but somehow a strong bond that was created always brought us back together. We wished only the best for each other, forgettin the disagreements and rememberin the times when we covered up for each other like breaking a lamp in a violent game of "blind man's bluff". When we had midnight swims just for fun, or raided the refrigerator with the lights out, because we wanted to enjoy each others company. Who among us can forget the games of "Limbo" with a long red scarf or the games of "Twister" where we got ourselves into the most awkward positions.
Sure this Sunday may not be the same but it has grown from all of those. And when we say Hi there is acknowledgment of how much it has taken to get here. Just enjoy every minute, we will be there sharing your joy and sorrow always. We sit and talk and exchange more about our lives. We are so proud of each other. I am so happy for everything they are because they remind me how nice life is and to be thankful.

Never ending thoughts

Have u ever had a conversation that was so long you never knew when it would end?
What if you could never bring that conversation to an end. What would be the difference between listening and amazement at how time passes so relatively in the space of one conversation.
The topics vary and only one word is needed in edgeways for a never-ending stream of comments that have little to do with what you said but maybe a word here and there may seem relevant. not to say that hours of intellectual discussion are boring. on the contrary, for the large part it can be highly intellectually stimulating.
JUst when u think u are steering the conversation where u want it to go to give you more breathing space, suddenly u are back in noman's land nodding and wondering what comes next.
And then theres your cue. grab that opportunity with everything in your body and mind to put your twopence in. well, actually now that u are in unmarked territory, it is more like half a cent. But play that card right, and it can carry you for the rest of the conversation having made an impact as the intellectual equal never giving your inablity to go on for more than a few hours.
But especially if the significant other is engagin in a plethora of topics that have various insightful infobits to latch onto, it is shame to give it up. Then this is the point that the conversation has reached the point of no return. the excuse out of the conversation would seem the obvious excape but it is not boredom but sheer longevity which is calling for an outlet.
Suddenly the ticking of the clock is in your mind. the hands of the watch seem faster and slower at the same time. Points are pondered, hints are dropped. enthusiasm cannot be made to abate. Suddenly it is there - flickering moments of destiny bound in a few scattered human movements.
Then as much in life - it is too good to be true. The movements are just precurser of more -much more flapping of jaw that now seems to draw attention to never before noticed facial features.Finally the realisation is at hand that much more thought process is going on than necessary and suddenly it is really over- wellbeit it another hour after the bounding of destiny.
Suddenly it is capsuled as a memory never to be forgotten. an experience that definitely had to be felt to totally understand. In the end, a washing over of gladness for the unexpected in life.

Musing

Don't count the years-count the memories...........

Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take;

but by the moments that take our breath away!