Top Movies This Week: New Thrillers, Nostalgia & Classic Romances

This week’s movie lineup brings a mix of intense drama, thrilling action, and timeless romances. Kareena Kapoor Khan shines in The Buckingham Murders, an emotional crime thriller, while Ajayante Randam Moshanam offers an epic adventure through Kerala’s history. Fans of thriller will enjoy the chilling psychological horror Speak No Evil, which promises to keep you on the edge of your seat. To top it off, Bollywood classics like Veer-Zaara, Tumbbad, and Tujhe Meri Kasam, Padosan, and Bombay to Goa are making a nostalgic return. With such a diverse range of stories, there's something exciting for every movie lover this week.

The Buckingham Murders

Directed by Hansal Mehta, The Buckingham Murders promises to be a gripping crime thriller with an emotional core. Inspired by Mare of Easttown, the film stars Kareena Kapoor Khan in a career-defining role, bringing emotional depth to a gripping crime thriller. The film follows a grieving mother who, after the tragic loss of her child, moves to a new town to start afresh. But when a child goes missing, and she's pulled into an intense investigation. It forces her to confront her own trauma. Shot in rural England with a predominantly British crew, it captures an atmospheric and authentic setting that adds to its intensity.

The film is more than a whodunit. While the tension of a murder mystery is intact, it also explores how people handle their pain and the lengths they'll go to in search of peace and closure after loss and grief. With films like Shahid and Omerta, Mehta is known for his knack for realistic storytelling. Even in this, he keeps the tension tight, blending emotional depth with gripping twists.

The film premiered at the 2023 BFI London Film Festival and has been praised for its heart-wrenching story and superlative performances. Kareena Kapoor Khan's portrayal of a mother who becomes a detective brings a heartfelt emotion to the story, capturing the struggles and determination of a mother on a mission. When you enter the cinemas to watch this film, expect a suspenseful ride that digs deep into the human experience. 

Ajayante Randam Moshanam aka A.R.M.

An Onam release, Ajayante Randam Moshanam (A.R.M.) takes viewers on a sweeping journey through Northern Kerala's rich history. The film follows three heroes from three eras, each stepping up to protect their land. The directorial debut of Jithin Lal, the action-adventure and period film, spans the years 1900, 1950, and 1990, telling the interconnected stories of Maniyan, Kunjikelu, and Ajayan—all played by Tovino Thomas.

In his 50th film, Tovino takes on these roles with great dedication, each showing a different time and an emotional story. From courage to anger and eventually sorrow, the three characters reflect the struggles of their times. Tovino trained extensively in Kalaripayattu for six months to bring a realistic edge to his characters.

It is releasing in 3D, with an ensemble cast featuring Sathyaraj, Basil Joseph, Krithi Shetty, and Aishwarya Rajesh. The film is an ambitious story of bravery, legacy, and the enduring connection between generations. It showcases the power of individuals to stand up for what matters most, no matter the era.

Speak No Evil

In Speak No Evil, James McAvoy stars in a chilling remake of the 2022 critically acclaimed Danish horror film. Directed by James Watkins, this psychological thriller follows a family invited for what seems like a perfect weekend getaway at a country house—until their dream vacation slowly unravels into a disturbing nightmare.

Known for his intense performances in M. Night Shyamalan's Unbreakable trilogy and as Charles Xavier in the X-Men series, McAvoy takes on a deeply unsettling role as the seemingly charming yet terrifying host. Alongside McAvoy, Mackenzie Davis and Aisling Franciosi round out the cast, bringing tension and dread to every scene.

Produced by the team behind Paranormal Activity and Insidious, this Blumhouse film promises to deliver the same spine-chilling experience, blending psychological horror with creeping suspense. Prepare to be unnerved as Speak No Evil delves into the darkness hiding beneath idyllic facades.

PVR INOX Curated Shows : Rereleases of the week

Veer-Zaara (2004)

Starring Shah Rukh Khan, Preity Zinta, and Rani Mukerji, Veer-Zaara is a timeless love saga directed by Yash Chopra. Set against the backdrop of India-Pakistan relations, the film tells the poignant story of Veer, an Indian Air Force officer, and Zaara, a Pakistani woman. What sets this film apart is its deep, soulful storytelling, backed by a timeless score composed by Madan Mohan. The film’s message of peace and love struck a chord with audiences, and its re-releases over the years have only solidified its place as one of Bollywood’s most cherished romances. 

Tumbbad (2018)

Tumbbad is a visually stunning horror-fantasy film that tells the story of Vinayak Rao, played by Sohum Shah, who becomes obsessed with a hidden treasure tied to a cursed goddess. Set in colonial India, the film explores themes of greed, family curses, and mythology. Directed by Rahi Anil Barve, it stands out for its eerie atmosphere, breathtaking visuals, and unique storytelling. The supporting cast includes Mohammad Samad and Jyoti Malshe, who add to the film’s depth. Tumbbad has become a cult favourite, with its re-releases continuing to attract audiences fascinated by its dark, atmospheric world.

Tujhe Meri Kasam (2003)

Marking the debut of Ritesh Deshmukh and Genelia D'Souza, Tujhe Meri Kasam is a light-hearted romantic drama about childhood friends who discover their feelings for each other as they grow up. Directed by K. Vijaya Bhaskar, the film is known for the charming chemistry between the lead pair, which later blossomed into a real-life romance. The film's simple, heartwarming story and nostalgic charm have endeared it to fans, allowing it to achieve cult status and remain popular even years after its original release.

Padosan (1968)

Padosan is one of those timeless comedies that has kept audiences laughing for generations. Directed by Jyoti Swaroop, the film has an incredible cast, including Sunil Dutt, Saira Banu, Mehmood, and Kishore Kumar in some of their most memorable roles. The story follows Bhola (Sunil Dutt), a simple, love-struck man who falls for his neighbour Bindu (Saira Banu). A hilarious battle of wits and music follows, especially with Mehmood playing the quirky music teacher. The unforgettable song “Ek Chatur Naar,” where Kishore Kumar and Mehmood go head-to-head, is still a crowd favourite. The film's witty humour, catchy tunes, and standout performances have made Padosan a comedy that never gets old.

Bombay to Goa (1972)

Another delightful classic, Bombay to Goa, is a road-trip comedy packed with laughter and adventure. Directed by S. Ramanathan and starring a young Amitabh Bachchan, Aruna Irani, and Mehmood, the film revolves around Mala (Aruna Irani) as she boards a bus to Goa to escape danger. Ravi (AB) steps in as Mala's protector while Mehmood plays a hilarious bus conductor. The journey is filled with fun characters, mishaps, and plenty of laughs, making it a feel-good ride from start to finish.