Why FILM IMPRESSIONS? Because we believe film lovers deserve better. The quality of film criticism in India has been steadily deteriorating, losing its credibility and intellectual rigour. Instead of informed and unbiased opinion we have been subjected to publicity-driven writing, often manipulated by vested interests. We wish to offer well-argued criticism, insightful interviews, historical perspective... and celebrate cinema in all its glory.

DEEPA DEOSTHALEE: Grew up to the masala movies of the '70s, has been writing about Bollywood for 15 years and still can't decide if she likes it. Goes over the fence frequently to the side of Hollywood and world cinema, but always slinks back to home base. Loves Smita Patil, hates mushy romances and can talk films till her head spins... literally!

• 

• VIKRAM PHUKAN: Must have had a secret connection to the movies even before he was born, because he knows impossible amounts of facts 'n' trivia, and loves forgotten movie goddesses. Dissects films under a microscope and finds subtext that nobody else noticed.