Welcome to OTTplay Lost and found, a podcast that tells you about critically-acclaimed yet lesser-known films and shows that you’ve probably not watched yet but should. This is an OTTplay Production, brought to you by HT Smartcast.
This underrated gem focuses on the psychological cost of living in a world built on lies This show is atmospheric, stylish, and packed with razor-sharp dialogue that keeps you hanging on to every word The espionage genre has always been a playground for tension, deception, and moral ambiguity, capturing audiences with its shadowy corridors of secrecy. From Cold War classics like Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy to modern thrillers like The Americans, spy narratives often blur the lines between loyalty and betrayal. In today's episode of Lost and Found, we're diving into an underrated masterpiece that's equal parts espionage thriller and emotional drama. If you're into betrayal, intrigue, and complicated friendships, this one's for you. Yep, we're talking about the gripping series A Spy Among Friends, streaming now on SonyLIV with OTTplay Premium.
This Demi Moore-Sissy Spacey-Cher starrer shows how societal attitudes influenced women's reproductive rights over decades With abortion rights once again under threat, the message in this HBO anthology film feels as urgent now as it did nearly three decades ago. Today, we're revisiting a poignant, powerful, and, sadly, forgotten gem —the 1996 HBO film If These Walls Could Talk. This compelling anthology film chronicles the stories of three women grappling with unplanned pregnancies in three distinct eras: the 1950s, 1970s, and 1990s. This may be a modest made for TV film but it's also one that resonates strongly even today, especially in light of the overturning of Roe v. Wade in the United States. Let's unpack why this cinematic masterpiece deserves to be on your watchlist.
In the latest episode, we dive into an underrated film that captures the legendary battle for late-night supremacy with wit and gravitas. Each person has their own favourite Jimmy, it's either Kimmel or Fallon but never both. Conan O'Brien may have pivoted to podcasts and perhaps, headlining that oddball travel show but the highlight of his CV remains being one of the most compelling hosts on TV. No one loves Meyers, everyone misses Trevor Noah and few may have managed to pull off a remarkable second innings like Jon Steward. Yes, you've guessed it! We're talking exclusively about those TV hosts who've ruled over late-night television with their astounding wit, fluid interviewing skills and that distinguished chutzpah. And in today's episode of Lost and Found, we're delving into a film that's based on the real-life rivalry between two talk show hosts in the 90s – yes, we're alluding to the 1996 film, The Late Shift.
More than a typical horror, this Guillermo del Toro-produced film explores human and supernatural connections with depth and dread You may be just about recovering from your Halloween hangover but we at OTTplay believe in letting the chills flow throughout the year. So in today's episode of Lost & Found, we're delving into a rare horror film that had all the ingredients of a spine-tingler but didn't get the attention it so rightfully deserved. We're talking about Guillermo del Toro's 2013 film Mama starring Jessica Chastain.
Those who love a good creature movie have very particular expectations. Having watched prehistoric reptiles wrestle like heavyweight champions and occasionally, even take on their fictional Japanese cousins who breathe fire, let's just say, our sensibilities have been trained to expect the unexpected and some more. It's like being wowed beyond imagination and blown to bits is the very least one would hope to take away from this experience. But in today's episode of Lost and Found, we're introducing you to a thrilling, edge-of-your-seat film that redefined the monster genre for modern audiences. Yes, we're talking about Cloverfield. Nearly two decades on, this film still packs a punch, and is worth discovering or even rediscovering.
Why The Matador is Pierce Brosnan's best-kept secret and why you need to watch it! Chance encounters sometimes lead to unimaginably delightful adventures. Particularly in films. From those strategically timed meet cutes in romcoms to diametrically opposite personalities being saddled together in complex circumstances. If this vague intro hasn't triggered your imagination to guess which film we're alluding to… let's make your life easier and just tell you. In today's episode of Lost and Found, we're talking about The Matador, a film that brings suspense, laughter, and an unconventional charm that continues to captivate audiences nearly two decades after its theatrical release. The Pierce Brosnan-Greg Kinnear starrer revolves around a hitman and a distraught businessman having a chance encounter at a bar in Mexico and how their fates get stitched together in more ways than one. No prizes for guessing who plays what here.
Kurt Russell-Matt Dillon's underrated gem will make you fall in love with heist movies Russell plays a suave, larger-than-life criminal in this underrated heist movie When one thinks of heists movies, critically-acclaimed films such as Reservoir Dogs and Dog Day Afternoon or popular blockbusters such as Ocean's Eleven or Now You See Me spring to mind. But there are forgotten heist movies that didn't get their due and deserve to be revisited. In today's episode of Lost and Found, we're talking about the slick, stylish, and criminally-underrated film The Art of the Steal that's perfect for a laid-back evening.
Churni Ganguly plays an author in exile as her work threatens the political establishment in Nirbashito . It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that we live in extremely divisive times. The level of intolerance and rejection of ideas and ideologies that don't concur with our own has to be unprecedented. This prompts us to revisit this lesser-known and perhaps, underrated Bengali film Nirbashito. It's one of those rare films that strikes a delicate balance between artistic storytelling and emotional resonance, while remaining just as relevant even today.
This 2011 biopic on FBI's first director didn't get the attention and admiration it deserved When asked to recall Leonardo DiCaprio's most celebrated works, the list of movies that pop into our mind largely include his iconic blockbusters. But Scorcese's poster boy has also featured in some films that didn't get the attention, adulation and respect that they truly deserved. So, in today's episode of Lost and Found, we're revisiting one such film that may have slipped through the cracks but is one of DiCaprio's most underrated gems that couldn't be more compelling.
Hands of Stone depicts the gritty, multifaceted life of Panamanian boxer Roberto Durán Sports films often follow a familiar playbook, sticking to tropes and clichés: the underdog triumphs, the fall from grace, and the dramatic comeback in the climax. From Rocky to Remember the Titans, these films tend to focus on predictable narratives of resilience and redemption. While these formulaic elements can be inspiring, they sometimes strip away the complexity of real-life sports stories.
Goth horror is a unique genre. A delicious blend that has the ability to transport audiences to a fantasy world where everything is possible and the laws of the world as we know it don't always apply. In today's episode of Lost and Found, we're delving into one such film that's equal parts spine-chilling and visually stunning – Crimson Peak. Yes, the 2015 gothic horror romance from the ever-imaginative mind of Guillermo del Toro. Now, if you haven't seen it yet, you're in for a treat. So grab your tea and let's dive into the hauntingly stunning world of Crimson Peak
Revisit Breaking Away, a 1979 classic that slipped off the radar and is now streaming on Disney+Hotstar The most iconic sports movies follow a certain framework. They're packed with winning moments and crushing losses. They tuck in nuggets of wisdom about the relentless spirit that drives some to go beyond the limits of human potential to achieve incredible glory. But there are also some that stray away from convention and try to weave a more emotional and sensitive narrative that touches a necessary nerve. That's right, we're talking about Breaking Away, a 1979 classic that might've slipped off the radar but is still as fresh and relevant as ever. So why should you watch Breaking Away? Well, it's a feel-good story with real emotional depth, and it captures the essence of finding your way in the world when you're not quite sure where you belong. Whether you're in the mood for a bit of nostalgia, a heartwarming tale, or just an enjoyable film with some great cycling action – this one's got it all. And, it's available on Disney+Hotstar in India. So, no excuses – it's time to hit ‘play' and rediscover this forgotten gem.
Two for the Money: Revisit this gripping drama of ambition and deceit starring Al Pacino and Matthew McConaughey. Very often we come across films that seem to be familiar for indefinite reasons. There's just something relatable if not reminiscent about their construct or telling that pulls us in and keeps us glued even though the end seems only too predictable. But to be honest, sometimes, predictable can also be comforting and perhaps, is just what it takes to hit the spot. The 2005 drama, Two for the Money is surely one such film and it's our Lost and Found for today
The archetypes of legendary pairs such as Sherlock Holmes and his reliable friend and colleague Dr Watson is a trope that police procedurals have often adopted to great effect – an eccentric genius detective with heightened observational skills and his more level-headed friend and ally who sometimes can't spot the obvious. The USA network TV series Psych, created by Steve Frank, ran for eight successful seasons between 2006 and 2014 and borrowed elements from the iconic detective duo created by Sir Arthur Canon Doyle and laced it with a familiar buddy cop comedy routine. The result is a unique blend of genres – an amalgamation of crime procedural and comedy. Imagine Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker's famous onscreen partnership.
The 2004 noir mystery series Veronica Mars is not a conventional production that is often associated with its genre. Helmed by Rob Thomas, the series is a satire of class disparity which is explored within the confines of a high school. The titular character Veronica Mars is a popular girl at high school who becomes a detective after the death of her best friend. Kristen Bell slips into the complex role of Veronica, an intelligent young woman who has to navigate through the various intricacies of high school whilst also solving various mysteries in the fictional town of Neptune, California.
This sci-fi comedy starring The X Files star David Duchovny parodies prehistoric creature films. Evolution is a 2001 comedy that slipped through the cracks but deserves to be rediscovered
The 1993 film Groundhog Day, starring Bill Murray is a comedy-drama that inspired countless films over the years. From Tom Cruise's sci-fi action film Edge of Tomorrow, the slasher horror Happy Death Day, and the romantic comedy Palm Springs, Groundhog Day's time loop trope has been reimagined across multiple genres.
Justice League is widely regarded as one of the greatest American animated shows of all time, a sharp contrast to the ill-fated 2017 film adaptation which was dismissed by fans and critics alike at the time of release. The animated series, although originally intended for children, features mature socio-political themes focusing on freewill, imperialism, authoritarianism, and class disparity. It also explored various scientific theories such as ‘wormholes' in some of the episodes that focused on science fiction. On the surface, the series might give one the impression of being just another animated series produced essentially for children. However, just like Batman the Animated Series, Justice League is rich with subtext featuring philosophical undertones. Some of the stories have also gone on to inspire Marvel's films and TV shows. For instance, the MCU TV series WandaVision may have been marketed as a loose adaptation of the iconic Marvel comic book House of M, but the TV show's similarity to the storyline in Justice League episodes 16 and 17 titled Legends is undeniable. Similarly, time-travelling superheroes were introduced to the mainstream consciousness by Justice League long before Avengers: Endgame.
Hollywood appears to have moved on from the conventional war action genre in recent years. There are exceptions of course, like Tom Cruise's 2022 blockbuster Top Gun: Maverick, where a film offers pure unbridled entertainment loaded with slick action sequences and stunning visuals. For today's Lost and Found podcast, we take a look at the 2001 film Behind Enemy Lines, a cult classic action film set against the backdrop of an Eastern European conflict. The film stars Owen Wilson and Gene Hackman in lead roles.
Hollywood in the ‘90s frequently offered captivating gems that held our attention and interest from start to finish. Some may knock them for being a tad exaggerated and for leaning on set pieces and plot devices. But films such as Tremors, Army of Darkness, and the iconic Romy and Michele's High School Reunion are classics that have earned a cult following over the years. The ‘90s investigative thriller The Bone Collector surely fits the bill as a 90s classic and it's our Lost and Found for today. While 1999 crime thriller strays from the conventional ‘90s popcorn cop film as it offers a blend of grounded realism, laced with occasional over-the-top set pieces to render an unforgettable cult classic.
Denis Villeneuve has firmly established himself as one of the best filmmakers of this era. His artistry in editing and framing shots and reliance on stellar sound design to enhance storytelling place him on a pedestal reserved for the best auteurs in cinema history. While his recent films have been big-budget productions such as Blade Runner 2049, Arrival, and Dune, Villeneuve has also helmed indie projects that are just as compelling as those that garnered him mainstream recognition. One such indie film is the critically-acclaimed psychological thriller Prisoners.
Serial killer movies follow a typical approach. Furnishing gruesome murders executed in cold blood, they try to depict sociopaths as those who just can't help themselves when presented with an opportunity. To make matters even more horrific, these slayings are often committed without any remorse. Luckily, these crazed killers usually have an eye for a particular kind of victim which eventually helps narrow down their profile. But there are films where these serial killers don't stick to a definite MO and their victims don't share a common profile either. And for fans of such serial killer movies, today's Lost and Found is dedicated to the 1995 thriller Copycat.
Filmmaker Ridley Scott has produced timeless classics over the years. Films such as Alien, Blade Runner, Kingdom of Heaven, Gladiator, and Black Hawk Down remain widely regarded as some of his best films. However, his relatively lesser-known 1991 adventure road dramedy Thelma & Louise, deserves to be placed on the same pedestal as the aforementioned titles. It is therefore our pick for this episode of Lost and Found.
The hype surrounding The Flash leading up to its release was nothing short of monumental. There were even reports of early special screenings drawing significant praise from fans, filmmakers, and critics. However, the film underperformed at the box office, riddled with jarringly poor VFX and a disappointing third act. The film's production itself was marred by controversies, from writers and directors leaving to lead star Ezra Miller's altercations with the law on more than a few occasions.
Films that revolve around the lives of movie stars are typical. Giving us a peek into their personal lives, they hope to allow audiences a chance to get to know them beyond the veil of celebrity and through a candid lens. But there are films that also delve into their fragile existence and their inability to accept their forced obscurity when they fade from the limelight following decades of stardom. Aparna Sen's Iti Mrinalini is one such poignant film and it's our Lost and Found for today.
The 2000s can be described as the most unremarkable decade in Malayalam cinema. A slew of over-the-top films with problematic themes passed for flag bearers of the industry. But then there were a few films that bucked this trend such as Kazcha, Thanmatra, and the 2003 Sathyan Anthikad film Manassinakkare.
Bhramaram: Even before Drishyam, here's a Mohanlal mystery about a deceptive man with a shady past Malayalam cinema's most prolific actor and undisputed superstar, Mohanlal has featured in a fair share of tragedies over the years. Most notably, in films such as Thalavattam, Ennishtam Ninnishtam, Kireedam, Unnikale Oru Kadha Parayam, Moonam Pakkam, and Thanmathra. Filmmaker Blessy's Thanmathra, which released in 2005, won several awards for the filmmaker and the film's lead star Mohanlal.
The 2015 Bengali film narrates the fictionalised story of Kadambari Devi, who is better known as Jyotirindranath Tagore's wife or Rabindranath Tagore's sister-in-law. The unfortunate tale of her premature demise has been the subject of great intrigue for many years. And people have always been curious about the woman who was the inspiration behind several of Tagore's works.
Feel-good films can singularly serve as mood-lifters when you're feeling low. But there are those that can draw you in with a compelling narrative and evoke a range of emotions. Rituparno Ghosh's National Award-winning Raincoat is one such film and is considered among the late legendary filmmaker's seminal works. His vision is realised on the screen with much conviction by Ajay Devgn and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan who play the central characters of Mannu and Neeru.
Joel Schumacher will, unfortunately, forever be remembered as the man who directed the universally-panned Batman films from the 90s, Batman Forever and Batman & Robin. Nevertheless, the late filmmaker did helm a few cult classics such as Phone Booth, The Lost Boys, The Phantom of the Opera, and The Client. A Time to Kill, which was released in 1996 and is arguably one of his best films.
For several decades, till the late 80s, Disney's animation studio failed to recreate the magic and glory the company had managed during its early days. However, between 1989 to 1999, the studio enjoyed a resurgence popularly dubbed the Disney Renaissance with commercially and critically-successful animated films such as The Lion King, Aladdin, Mulan, Pocahontas, Beauty and the Beast and many more – an era of 2D animation that is yet to be eclipsed.
Robert Rodriguez has become one of the most celebrated filmmakers over the years thanks to his unique filmmaking style and signature visual aesthetics. Some of his biggest hits such as The Mexico trilogy, Planet Terror, Spy Kids, Sin City, and From Dusk Till Dawn have earned widespread acclaim over the years. But one might even argue that these titles are cult classics. However, if there is a film that truly deserves cult status from Rodriguez's filmography is the lesser-known 90s sci-fi horror film, The Faculty.
Before the 90s economic boom in India, there was a mass exodus of people migrating illegally to the Arabian Gulf in search of employment. This dangerous trip across the Arabian Sea was very common among Malayalis and it helped several families earn a decent living. The 2015 film, Pathemari, directed by Salim Ahamed tells the story of a man named Pallikkal Narayanan who traveled to the ‘Gulf' in the 60s on an illegal sailing vessel called the Pathemari, in the hopes of securing a better life for his family.
A story of three generations of women and an auspicious box of jewels, this riveting tale by Aparna Sen is aimed at annihilating centuries of social stigma and established draconian traditions. The women of the story each have their own inner demons to overcome, but unfortunately, it is a losing effort. However, a box of jewelry, interestingly enough, comes to their rescue. Today's film for our Lost and Found podcast is the Bengali film Goynar Baksho. Directed by Aparna Sen, the film excellently portrays the transition from the post-independence era to the liberation war and the changes in people that came with time.
Films have forever portrayed law enforcement officers in India through a one-dimensional lens. They've either been portrayed as government servants who relentlessly serve and go beyond the call of duty or those who've let their morals slide in exchange for commercial gains. But Shimit Amin's 2004 film Ab tak Chhappan is one that depicts the precarious position that encounter cops find themselves in while navigating a system that merely considers them as pawns in a game of chess. And this sharp action drama is our Lost and Found for today.
Most films that depict mental illnesses are focussed on the condition alone. Illustrating the symptoms and idiosyncratic behavioral patterns, they end up exaggerating the patient's affliction and coloring them as dysfunctional beings unable to integrate with society. But few films have managed to sensitively portray mental patients through a lens that doesn't underplay their compromised faculties but also, throws light on the pragmatic outlook that their caregivers tend to adopt. 15 Park Avenue is surely one such film and it's our Lost and Found for today.
Films that trigger nostalgia are a portrait of the past. They teleport us to a certain time, allowing a glimpse of dated social norms. And significantly, they alter the way we perceive the world and navigate the circumstances presented to us. Anjan Dutt's compelling family drama Dutta VS Dutta is surely one such gem and it's our Lost and Found for today.
The 80s and 90s was the golden age for buddy cop films in Hollywood, with hits such as Beverly Hills Cop, Rush Hour, Bad Boys, Lethal Weapon, and 48 Hours revered as some of the best in the genre. But one film that may be slightly lesser known these days is the 1999 film Blue Streak and that's the Lost and Found film for today's episode.
Every once in a while we chance upon a romcom that's so delicious it just sweeps us off our feet. The true test for a romcom lies in its ability to engage the audience to such an extent… that we're compelled to root for the couple on the screen as they tide over all obstacles that test their relationship. Laurent Tirard's Franco-Belgian romantic comedy Up for love is definitely one such ride. And it's our Lost and Found for today.
Detective shows such as Elementary and The Mentalist had a good run, exceeding over a 100 episodes, and building a fan base that loves detective fiction. But Scorpion, which has largely been eclipsed by comparatively popular shows, has remained buried in the OTTverse. Loosely based on real-life experiences of its producer Walter O'Brien who is also one of the protagonists in the show, this one gives a definitive twist to the typical consultant investigator sub-genre.
In recent years, few stoner comedies have been memorable enough to be lauded. Most would consider films such as Harold and Kumar go to White Castle and Pineapple Express for effectively and hilariously translating accounts of getting high in films. But Nima Nourizadeh's American Ultra which stars Jesse Eisenberg, Kristen Stewart and Topher Grace among others is a rare stoner comedy that slipped through the cracks after a dismal box office performance and it's our Lost and Found for today.
In recent years, movies and shows about time travel such as The Paper Girls and even the grossly-underrated JL50 have challenged the possibilities that the genre has to offer. From allowing one to envision an opportunity to alter the past to accepting a future which seems too convoluted, perplexing and beyond one's imagination. There's never been a better time to go down the sci-fi rabbit hole. But there are films that have also explored the genre through the lens of a crime thriller, rendering a gripping watch like none other. Oriol Paulo's sci-fi thriller Mirage is a great example and it's our Lost and Found for today.The Spanish film, dubbed in English, follows a medical professional who chances upon a vintage TV set which acts as a portal to communicate with a young child based a couple of decades in the past. When she learns that this preteen was killed in an accident, she makes it her life's mission to save his life. But altering the past inadvertently triggers a chain of events that actually impacts her own present, spiralling her into a world where she can barely recognise or accept her own identity. Directed by Oriol Paulo, best known for films such as The Body and The Invisible Guest which was remade in Hindi as the Amitabh Bachchan-starrer Badla, this one packs the filmmaker's signature style of keeping the audiences consistently nervous about the events to follow. Paulo's narrative style allows one to slip into the story with such immersion that one can actually experience what the characters on the screen must be going through. But despite your best attempts, it's unlikely that you'll be able to stitch it all together and figure out the big reveal that this film's climax packs. Let's just say, we didn't see it coming and if you're up for a film with multiple twists and shocking revelations, add Mirage to your watchlist right away.It's Streaming on NetflixWell, that's the OTTplay Lost and Found for today, until the next time it's your host Nkhil signing out.Aaj kya dekhoge OTTplay se poochoWritten by Kunal Guha
There are few films that have managed to capture the desperation and dread that some folks in the world of entertainment go through in their quest for ultimate glory. The exhausting journey of trying to nab that one big break has been detailed to some degree in many films and shows. But the extreme lengths that one can go to in an attempt to achieve one's showbiz dreams, has been most accurately portrayed in Martin Scorcese's 1982 film, The King of Comedy. And it's our Lost and Found for today.The film follows Rupert Pupkin, a struggling standup comedian played by Robert Deniro who hopes to get a spot in the Tonight's Show. When a chance encounter with the show's aging legendary host Jerry Langford (played by the inimitable Jerry Lewis and modeled on Johnny Carson) offers a glimmer of hope, Pupkin dives right in. But as it turns out, what seemed like an accidental big break was just a ruse to politely turn the struggling comedian away. But Pupkin is determined, desperate and willing to resort to extreme measures such as kidnapping the show's host to get his big break. How this one folds up is anyone's guess but the asphyxiating feeling of sitting through the turbulent events that follow actually makes it a taut thriller worth watching.Deniro is in prime form here and had just won the Best Actor Oscar for Raging Bull prior to this film. He completely immerses himself into the unassuming and relentless sociopath who struggles to accept his mediocrity. In some ways, Pupkin resembles Deniro's iconic Travis Bickle from Taxi Driver but is surely less belligerent, even if the character may be equally off-kilter and damaged. If you're in the mood for an unsettling watch that could leave you singularly disturbed, add The King of Comedy to your watchlist now.Well that's the OTTplay Lost and Found for today, until the next time it's your host Nikhil signing out.Aaj kya dekhoge OTTplay se poochoWritten by Kunal Guha
If you're a sucker for whodunits, it's impossible you've not kept up with the works of Arthur Conan Doyle and Agatha Christie. Their contributions to the world of amateur and professional sleuths has defined the debilitating role of detectives in contemporary literature and popular culture. Many author-backed screen iterations have managed to realize the mood and mayhem of the written word while some have failed to translate the magic of the novels. Today's Lost and Found is Poirot, one of the most commendable detectives to have graced the screen.
Lost & Found- Bridge of Spies - episode 77Steven Spielberg is possibly one of the most popular filmmakers in the world. He has helmed critically acclaimed films across genres and formats for more than 60 years. However, there are few films that have slipped through the cracks in terms of mainstream popularity, and one such film is the 2015 Cold War drama film, Bridge of Spies. This carefully crafted film tells the story of a Soviet spy standing trial in the US in 1960 during the Cold War. Revered English actor and playwright Mark Rylance essays the role of the stoic and unassuming KGB spy, Rudolf Abel. Rylance's character is a far cry from the swashbuckling and flamboyant fictional spies such as James Bond, Jack Reacher, Jason Bourne, or Ethan Hunt. In fact, Rudolf Abel could be mistaken for a polite middle-aged man leading a private life in the US. However, when his cover is blown, he stands trial at the US Supreme Court for espionage. A lawyer named James Donovan, essayed by Hollywood legend Tom Hanks, is tasked with the responsibility of negotiating a deal with the Soviets to exchange Abel for an American pilot, whose plane was shot down inside the Soviet Union. The film is based on true events and was praised for its authentic depiction of the nuances surrounding foreign diplomacy, geopolitics, and espionage. The film's sublime editing and engrossing screenplay aided by the brilliance of Mark Rylance and Tom Hanks make it a compelling watch. You can watch this film on Sony Liv, or you could also subscribe to OTTplay Premium to get Sony Liv along with other regional and international OTT platforms for the price of one. Well that's the OTTplay Lost and Found for today , until the next episode it's your host Nikhil signing out.Aaj kya dekhoge OTTplay se poochoWritten by Ryan Gomez
Lost and Found - Good Girls (Netflix) - Episode 76Shows where those who keep to the straight and narrow decide to (cough) break bad, have forever clicked on streaming platforms. Well, there's just something deliciously dangerous about dropping regular folks into extraordinary situations where they must strive to survive, and the payoff just makes it worth the ride.Today's Lost and Found, the Netflix series Good Girls is just what you ordered. The show revolves around Beth, Ruby, and Annie, moms, and besties who're each grappling with a certain financial crisis. Desperate and down on luck, the trio plot to rob a grocery store in a last-ditch effort to rise from their crippling situation. But while they manage to pull it off, they also inadvertently find themselves being sucked into the world of crime. Crossing a mafioso evidently leads to much friction as our mommy robbers are then blackmailed into committing various other crimes, which drives them to a point of no return. Christina Hendricks as the charming Beth Boland is surely the star of this show. But she's ably supported by her onscreen besties played by Mae Whitman and Retta. Manny Montana who plays the abominable crime lord Rio also manages his part effectively. It's notable that his character often manages to channel intimidation through his body language alone. Cheating husbands, money laundering schemes, and even a counterfeit currency operation are just some of the many themes that this show dabbles in. But this bittersweet dramedy thriller that's pulled through four seasons actually works for its unique premise – getting those trained in diaper duty and kitchen hacks to attempt serious heists. Their singular skill sets and approach may differ from hard-boiled criminals but their conviction to pull off the inconceivable makes this one worth a watch.The series Good Girls is streaming on Netflix.Well, that's the OTTplay Lost and Found for today, until the next time it's your host Nikhil signing out.Aaj kya dekhoge OTTplay se poocho
Lost and Found - Community - series (Netflix) - Episode 75Before Dan Harmon attained cult status for creating the black comedy satire animated series, Rick and Morty, he was known for a relatively lesser-known comedy television series called Community. That's the Lost and Found for today's episode, I'm your host NikhilSet in Colorado in the fictional city of Greedale, a disbarred lawyer named Jeff Winger joins a local community college after his firm finds out that he did not have a legitimate bachelor's degree. Jeff, played by Joel McHale, decides to make the most of his time at the community college and brings everything in his repertoire to convince his classmate, Britta Perry, from his Spanish class to go out on a date. So he creates a pretend study group just for the two of them, only to discover that Britta invited another classmate, Abed Nadir, a slightly eccentric movie buff, who invited a host of others as well. The Spanish study group soon becomes a very tight-knit club as the series chronicles their misadventures. Dan Harmon has left an indelible mark on the series with his signature humour, satire, social commentary, and surreal set-pieces. The narrative at times requires a suspension of disbelief, but the over-the-top elements are deliberate additions carefully crafted to parody tropes from popular films and TV shows. Allison Brie essays the role of Annie Eddison, a bright young student who has a history of a public mental breakdown in high school, Donald Glover plays Troy Barnes a former NFL hopeful whose career prospects were dashed by a serious knee injury, Yvette Nicole Brown as Shirley Bennett, a very religious mother of two who dreams of expanding her horizons, whereas Chevy Chase essays a wealthy elderly man who has a penchant for being politically ‘incorrect', and Danny Pudi plays the heart and soul of the story, Abed Nadir, an eccentric movie buff who often struggles to communicate well with others. Ken Jeong, Jim Rash, and John Oliver play other important characters in this criminally underrated TV series. If you haven't watched Community yet, it's streaming on Netflix.Well that's the OTTplay Lost and Found for today's episode , until the next time it's your host Nikhil signing out.Aaj kya dekhoge OTTplay se poochoWritten By Ryan Gomez
Stories about Artificial Intelligence becoming self-aware have always been a matter of great interest ever since Arnold Schwarzenegger's T-800 was sent back in time to kill Sarah Connor in James Cameron's Terminator in 1984, just a couple of years after Rutger Hauer's Ray Batty delivered the iconic ‘Tears in the rain' monologue in Ridley Scott's Blade Runner. The idea of self-aware robots have since evolved into sentient intelligences capable of monitoring and manipulating every aspect of human life. In fact, these debates have become part of contemporary real world moral and ethical dilemmas, after having been explored in films such as AI: Artificial Intelligence and Ex-Machina, and Jonathan Nolan's HBO TV series Westworld. For today's Lost and Found podcast, we take a look at another Jonathan Nolan series, Person of Interest. The story follows a recluse billionaire tech genius, played by Michael Emerson, who recruits an ex-CIA operative, essayed by Jim Caviezel, to be a vigilante and save common citizens of New York from imminent danger. Emerson's character Harold Finch receives intel from an AI he had secretly created for the government to detect any premeditated acts of crime. But since the government only has resources to act upon threats against national security such as terrorism, all other crimes are categorised as irrelevant. So, Finch takes it upon himself, with the help of his new recruit John Reese, to save potential victims on the irrelevant list created by the machine. The show's well-written characters, engrossing storyline, and thought-provoking themes, which delves into controversial topics such state surveillance and privacy, makes it one of the most underrated TV shows of the last decade. As the series progresses, themes relating to the ethical conundrums of how human beings must adapt and reassess how to deal in the event an AI becomes self-aware are also explored.This binge-worthy series also features an excellent ensemble of supporting characters played by Kevin Chapman, Amy Acker, Taraji P. Henson, and Sarah Shahi. Well that's the OTTplay Lost and Found for today, until the next time it's your host Nikhil signing out.Aaj kya dekhoge OTTplay se poochoWritten By Ryan Gomez
The Malayalam film industry's poster boy for its new wave of cinema is undoubtedly Fahadh Faasil. The acclaimed actor has amassed a cult following in Kerala, and across India, for riveting performances in recent films such as Kumbalangi Nights, Trance, Joji, and Malik. The 2016 film Maheshinte Prathikaaram is a relatively lesser-known classic and features one of the most well-written protagonists in Indian cinema.Faasil slips into his role with ease and is aided by an engrossing screenplay by Kumbalangi Nights writer Syam Pushkaran. Faasil essays the role of Mahesh, a photographer from a small town in Idukki Kerala, who is forced to reassess his worldview after a series of life-changing incidents. The soft-spoken Mahesh soon ends up in a path of vengeance as retaliation for being humiliated in the town centre by a man named Jimson. The narrative has placed the town itself as a pivotal character in the overarching story, and the actions of each character have a ripple effect on the entire town, setting off a chain of events that culminates with Mahesh defiantly proclaiming that he would never wear footwear again until he beats Jimson in a brawl. Directed by Dileesh Pothan, the film is a satire on society and established social conventions. It uses humour to convey its subtext and critiques the various aspects of societal norms that shackle individuals from a journey of self-discovery. The film's cinematography and sound design have added an extra layer of nuance and quality. Aparna Balamurali, Soubin Shahir, Alencier Ley Lopez, and Anusree, essay important supporting characters. Catch this flick streaming on Amazon Prime Video Well, that's the OTTplay Lost and Found for today, until the next episode it's your host Nikhil out of here.Aaj kya dekhoge OTTplay se poochoWritten by Ryan Gomez
The Malayalam film industry has produced some iconic films based on the state's complex political structure. Political satire such as Sandesam remains one of the best Malayalam films ever created for its use of humour to tell a compelling tale of family, society, and politics. However, the more serious political films have often been tainted by over-the-top dialogues and larger-than-life characters. The 2013 film, Left Right Left, is a grounded take on Kerala's political landscape, focusing on the communist party. The film courted controversy when it was released in 2013 as many believed that the story is loosely based on the current Chief Minister of Kerala, Pinarayi Vijayan. Directed by Arun, the film stars Murali Gopi as Roy Joseph, Indrajith Sukumaran as P K Jayan, and Hareesh Peradi as Kaitheri Sahadevan. It also features a vast ensemble of supporting actors such as Remya Nambeshan, Anusree, Lena, Baiju, Jagadish, Mammukoya, and Saiju Kurup. The riveting story features the rise of political leaders and how ambition often creates moral and ethical dilemmas. Set across three time periods starting from the 60s, the plot revolves around the lives of a corrupt policeman, a former revolutionary, and a powerful politician with a questionable past. The film was praised for its balanced portrayal of its complex characters and the excellent performances by the cast. Even though it failed to find commercial success during its theatrical run, it has since attained cult status on online streaming services. Catch it streaming on Sun NXT.Well that's the Lost and found for today, until the next time it's your host Nikhil out of here. Aaj kya dekhoge OTTplay se poochoWritten by Ryan Gomez
British filmmaker Martin McDonagh earned global recognition for the 2017 filmThree Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, which earned seven Academy Award nominations and two wins. But his relatively lesser-known 2008 film, In Bruges, is our Lost and Found for today.Set in the city of Bruges in Belgium, a city renowned for its medieval architecture and art, the story follows two hitmen sent from England to carry out a mission. Colin Ferrel essays the role of Ray, a relative newcomer to the profession, who is deeply haunted by the traumatic events of his first mission when he accidentally murdered a little boy. Brendan Gleeson plays the role of the veteran hitman, Ken, who attempts to help ease Ray's trauma. However, they soon realise that their boss Harry had asked for this mission simply to give Ray a proper vacation before killing him. Harry, essayed by Ralph Feinnes, despite being a hardened criminal, is a man of principle and believes that Ray should be punished for his mistake. The film's visuals, sound design, engaging screenplay, and riveting performances, makes it one of the best black-comedy drama films of the 21st century. It explores themes of morality, trauma, and redemption through visual imagery, editing, and narrative structure. It opens a discourse on the social construct of morality and how it is perceived by an individual regardless of established conventions. The film remains one of director McDonagh's best works, if not his best. It is available on Amazon Prime Video. Well, that's the OTTplay Lost and Found film for today, until the next time it's your host Nikhil signing out.Aaj kya dekhoge OTTplay se poochoWritten by Ryan Gomez