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Salman woes Katrina's Look-alike

2009-12-14T08:41:00.000-08:00

Salman with look a like of katrina in veer

Watch here

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CXc2EPgqgqs

Rocket Singh Box Office Updates

2009-12-13T03:05:00.001-08:00

Apart from the dull promos and poor pre-release promotion, Rocket Singh - Salesman of the year was expected to open to decent, if not good numbers due to two reasons.

Ranbir Kapoor after the success of Wake Up Sid and Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani, was expected to bring in the audience by his sheer presence.
Shimit Amin’s last film, Chak De India, was one of those rare films that achieved both critical acclaim and huge box office success.

Shockingly, Rocket Singh has opened to poor numbers on Friday.

There were reports that the advance booking was good, but the morning shows at certain places were as low as 5%. On Friday morning, we watched the movie with exactly 8 others, on a screen with a capacity of close to 500.

Afternoon and evening shows, did boost collections as expected with collections of around 50%. Saturday morning and afternoon shows were better, but were still below expectations.

With low costs, the makers will easily recover their investment through video and television rights alone, but HIT business theatrically seems unlikely now. Unless, the film picks up on Sunday and holds up well during the weekdays.

Although the critics have had only good things to say, the response from the audience has been mixed. “Boring” - “Too long” - “We expected a comedy” is what most people we spoke to, had to say.

Source Indicine

My Name Is Khan - Sneak Peek

2009-12-13T03:05:00.000-08:00

The official first look trailer will be aired on Star Plus at 10 PM on 16th December.

Rocket Singh Movie Review

2009-12-11T22:35:00.000-08:00

After Chak De India, the expectations are high from the men behind the classic - Shimit Amin (director) and Jaideep Sahni (writer) - who return with Rocket Singh - Salesman of the year, stars Ranbir Kapoor, Gauhar Khan, Shazahn Padamsee, D Santosh, Mukesh Bhatt, Prem Chopra and others.

The movie is about Harpreet Singh Bedi (Ranbir Kapoor), a below average student in school and college, who takes up marketing as his career. He joins a computer sales company, AYS, as a trainee. Under a corrupt senior, the job soon turns into one of his worst nightmares. Rocket Singh in short is Harpreet Singh Bedi’s journey from a zero to a hero.

Rocket Singh Review

What works in Rocket Singh - Salesman of the year

Shimit Amin, the director of Ab Tak Chappan and Chak De India, is in top form. The feel of the corporate world has been captured very realistically. The writing (Jaideep Sahni) is top notch too, with several scenes making great impact - the first job interview, conversations between Harpreet and his senior manager Nitin, the scene in the club where Harpreet is insulted by his boss, when his boss gets to know about his secret company, his confrontations and many more.
The second half is better paced (compared to the first) and much more entertaining.
Like Chak De, Rocket Singh too has some fantastically written characters. The one that stands out though, is Nitin’s. We have no clue about the name of the actor, Yashraj hasn’t revealed it just yet. Nitin as Ranbir’s senior, is fantastic and easily the deserves the top acting honors.
For probably the first time in his career, Ranbir Kapoor is not the pick of actors. While he does a good job as a Sardar, mingling with the others and completely looking the character, the others steal the scene.
The romance too works largely due to Shazahn Padamsee’s sweetness, charm and fantastic screen presence.
Its nice to finally see a Sardar, who are usually seen as clowns, presented realistically.
Background music by Salim - Suleiman was good.

Performances, in no particular order, since all were good!

The guy who played the character of Nitin, is by far the best of the lot.
Ranbir Kapoor - As usual natural, perfect for the character and proves yet again why he’s considered, by many, as the next superstar.
Shazahn Padamsee - Sweet, sexy and does very well in the acting department too.
D Santosh - Was brilliant as Rajguru in the Legend of Bhagat Singh. In Rocket Singh, playing a sex-obsessed character, he does very well.
Prem Chopra after a long long time is good as Harpreet’s father.
Suri as the owner of AYS, is good.
Gauhar Khan is as good as the others.
Mukesh Bhatt too was fantastic.

Coming to the negatives

Rocket Singh is too long, exceeding 3 hours (including intermission)
The pace isn’t too great. The first half was slow and at times boring.
Music is average.

Don’t go in expecting a comedy, Rocket Singh is a realistic film that deals with serious issues. Perfect casting, fabulous performances, good direction and writing make Rocket Singh a good one-time watch.

All said and done though, without taking any credit away from Shimit Amin, Rajkumar Hirani was probably the best man to direct a film like Rocket Singh.

Rating: With a bit of patience, you should enjoy this.

Source - Indicine

Rocket Singh Review - Today!

2009-12-10T22:13:00.000-08:00

Rocket Singh apart from the “Salesman of the Year” title, also deserves an award for the “Worst marketed film of the year”. For those unaware (and we don’t blame you), the film is releasing today!

Starring Ranbir Kapoor - who is on a hat-trick after Wake Up Sid and Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani - Rocket Singh marks the return of the Chak De India team - the movie is produced by Yashraj Films, written by Jaideep Sahni and directed by Shimit Amin.

With the best talent in the industry coming together, we have our expectations high. The Indicine Review will be up later in the afternoon at around 2:30 PM Indian Standard Time. Do check back in.

Rocket Singh also stars two relatively new faces - Shazahn Padamsee and Gauhar Khan.

Veer Music likely to release on December 18th

2009-12-10T22:12:00.001-08:00

The music release date of Veer hasn’t yet been confirmed, but according to reliable sources, the music is all set to release on December 18th 2009. Salman on his Veer blog too, confirmed the same - “looking at releasing the music around 17th Dec”

Music has been composed by Sajid Wajid and the lyrics are penned by Oscar-winning lyricist Gulzar.

In other news, Salman has announced that his popular reality show Dus Ka Dum is definitely happening.

For fans, keen on interacting with the actor, head over to the Veer Blog.. Salman is pretty active, reads almost every comment and does respond to a few.

Source - Indicine

Katrina rejects Hrithik

2009-12-10T22:10:00.002-08:00

By glamsham

Where actresses crave to share screen space with Bollywood superstar Hrithik Roshan, here's one actress who has declined the exciting offer to work with Hrithik.

Well the hottie under debate is B-town's most sought after lady Katrina Kaif, who according to the latest reports was approached for Hrithik Roshan starrer KRRISH 2.

No the pretty lass isn't throwing any starry airs. The kind of fame and success she is relishing currently hasn't gone into her head. She's very well rooted to the ground as she is always. Actually Katrina is committed to doing the DOSTANA sequel produced by Karan Johar and falling short of time to allocate dates for KRRISH 2 to be produced and directed by Rakesh Roshan.

Reports also suggest that after Kat's refusal, filmmaker Rakesh Roshan, who was extremely keen to pair up Hrithik-Katrina in his film, has now moved toDeepika Padukone.

Well even we would have loved to see the 2 hottest stars of Bollywood Hrithik and Katrina's jodi on-screen, but as they say....may be next time. Meanwhile let's be excited for another fresh pairing of Hrithik and Deepika!

Hey guys, but you tell us which jodi you would love to see Hrithik-Katrina or Hrithik-Deepika

"Avatar" wows early movie reviewers

2009-12-10T22:10:00.001-08:00

By reuters

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Director James Cameron's long-awaited "Avatar" wowed critics at its London premiere on Thursday, with some early reviewers calling it "jaw-dropping," "mind-blowing" and a game-changer in Hollywood for its digital effects.

The 3D epic adventure by the director of 1997 blockbuster "Titanic" is one of the most expensive films ever at a cost of about $400 million to make and market. It begins its worldwide launch next week, hitting U.S. theaters on Dec. 18.

If initial reviews and Twitter buzz are any indication, it may be money well spent for film studio 20th Century Fox.

"James Cameron has proven his point: He is king of the world," raved showbiz newspaper The Hollywood Reporter.

"As commander-in-chief of an army of visual-effects technicians, creature designers, motion-capture mavens, stunt performers, dancers, actors and music and sound magicians, he brings science-fiction movies into the 21st century with the jaw-dropping wonder that is 'Avatar,'" it said.

Britain's biggest-selling tabloid, The Sun, called it "the most dazzling film of the decade. ... The final battle scene is 20 minutes long and absolutely mind-blowing."

"Avatar" shows the forest-dwelling Na'vi fighting for survival against a colonial mining operation bent on stripping their planet. A crippled ex-Marine is chosen to make contact with the mysterious people as a remotely controlled avatar.

Empire magazine gave the movie five stars out of five, calling it a "hugely rewarding experience" whose new technology "will give directors ... one heck of a sandbox to play in."

Twitter lit up with comments from journalists leaving the tightly guarded premiere. "James Cameron is a freakin' genius! I can't say much but wow, I loved it," wrote Alex Billington of the movie website FirstShowing.net.

The London Guardian's Mark Brown wrote on Thursday that "Avatar" was "really much, much better than expected, (it) looked amazing and the story was gripping -- if cheesy in many places."

"The terrible film that some had been anticipating had not materialized. It was good," Brown wrote.

Best Movies of the Decade: Lagaan at Number 41

2009-12-10T06:50:00.001-08:00

Timeout London have published their list, of the best “101 films of the decade” and Ashutosh Gowariker’s Lagaan starring Aamir Khan has made it to the list at Number 41, eighteen ahead of Danny Boyle’s Slumdog Millionaire, which was listed at Number 59.

Calling the film a ‘must watch’ the London based weekly magazine says “The Oscar-nominated ‘Lagaan’ is a must-see for anyone interested in world cinema and Bollywood. Will a group of illiterate Indian farmers beat officers of the British Raj at a game of cricket so that they can be absolved from paying a dreaded land tax? ‘Lagaan’ broke all the bolly-rules: a bound script, real locations, synch-sound, proper acting and AR Rahman tunes carried the narrative forward. The result was a hugely entertaining film with cricket being used as a metaphor to illustrate the evils of communalism and Empire. Best of all was learning how the game was ‘invented’ by the Indians. ”

Source: Timeout

Imran Khan - Avantika Malik - Engagement on January 16th

2009-12-10T06:49:00.001-08:00

For those unaware, Imran Khan will get engaged to his long-time sweetheart Avantika Malik on January 16th 2010. According to sources, Imran and Avantika will exchange rings, in the presence of family and close friends in Mumbai, soon to be followed by a bash, that would be attended by the biggest names in the industry.

There were rumours that Imran had proposed marriage to Avantika on her birthday, a few months back in July. Their engagement was supposed to happen earlier but was postponed due to his film commitments. “Imran always had January in mind when he had announced his formal engagement. The date is 16th January. Also, there were never any plans of doing the ceremony in Delhi as Imran and Avantika both have their families and friends here in Mumbai.”

Source- Indicine

I wanted to be a Porn Star - Shahrukh Khan

2009-12-10T06:48:00.001-08:00

No body can beat Shah Rukh Khan when it comes to taking pot shots at himself. The Badshah of Bollywood was at his wittiest when he shared his aspiration of becoming a porn star.

The actor was here to launch management guru Arindam Chaudhuri’s new book ‘Discover the Diamond in You’ when he revealed his desire.

“I always wanted to be porn star. I am going to work with all the positivity and clarity to be a porn star,” Shah Rukh said much to the amusement of the packed audience.

And where did this inspiration arise from? “I have always been a huge fan of Sylvester Stallone who was a porn star before becoming Hollywood superstar,” the actor said.

Shah Rukh, famous for his outrageously funny remarks did tickle the funny bone of the audience who was in for a laugh riot while listening to the actor.

And it was the icing on the cake when the actor said, “I will take my flag and put it up in America after becoming the biggest porn star of the world.”

The whole joke started when Chaudhuri, while reading excerpts from his book gave example of Stallone’s determination and his journey from a porn star to becoming one of the Hollywood’s icons.

He also referred how Akio Morita, founder of Sony, Japanese electronics giant, started the company with a dream to have his country’s flag flutter high on the soils of US.

“You see that is what happens with students like me who take all the wrong things from best of the examples given to them,” Shah Rukh jested.

Source: Times of India.

Hot Pics: Katrina Kaif from GQ Magazine

2009-12-08T21:55:00.000-08:00

With titles like “The most Googled actress in India” and “The most beautiful actress in the country” to her credit, Katrina Kaif is one of the most successful actresses in Bollywood today. Apart from her great looks, its here success ratio that most of her contemporaries envy.

At times skimpy with her clothing, but never vulgar. That’s Katrina Kaif for you.

Here are some pictures from the GQ Magazine, check them out and drool on..! Link

: The Sexy Katrina Kaif on GQ

: Katrina Kaif on GQ

: Katrina in Blue

: Katrina in Pink

My Name Is Khan First Trailer on Star Plus

2009-12-08T21:54:00.000-08:00

Here’s a first - A promo for a promo!

In a recent promotional video on Star Plus, Shahrukh Khan revealed that the first look trailer of My Name Is Khan will be unveiled on Star Plus on 16th December 2009, at 10 PM Indian Standard Time.

The official theatrical trailer though, will be released with James Cameron’s Hollywood movie Avatar.

Co-written and directed by Karan Johar, My Name Is Khan also stars Kajol, Jimmy Shergill amongst others. The music has been composed by Shankar - Ehsaan - Loy.

The worldwide theatrical rights, on 7th August, was sold to Fox Star Studios for Rs 98 crores.

Release date - 12th February 2010.

Link

Paa Box office Updates

2009-12-08T21:53:00.000-08:00

Paa, produced by the Bachchan’s under their AB Corp banner, opened to a good response from the audiences on Friday. The business though, as expected was average on the opening day but has picked up all over on Saturday due to positive reviews and strong word of mouth.

Occupancy was best at major cities like Mumbai, Bangalore and Delhi. The first day (Friday) nett is around 2 - 2.5 crores, while Saturday and Sunday were approximately in the 4 - 5 crore range.

Single screens too witnessed a hike in ticket sales on Saturday and Sunday, with occupancy ranging from 20% for the morning shows to 60% for the evening shows. Note - These figures are from some of the single screen theaters we contacted in Bangalore, Mumbai and a few other towns / cities.

For a film released on around 525 screens, these are good numbers. The curiosity to watch Amitabh Bachchan as Auro, the amazingly positive reviews and excellent word-of-mouth should all help the film easily recover its investment by the end of week 1.

Day 1 - 2 crores
Day 2 - 3.5 crores
Day 3 - 5.5 crores

First Weekend: 11 crores

Day 4 (Monday) - 2 crores

Paa has picked up big time, almost doubling its Friday collections on Saturday and tripling on Sunday! Such spike in business is a rarity these days. The Monday collections are expected to be better than Friday and the movie is expected to remain strong at the box office for the rest of the weekdays.

Content is the king!

Week 1: 20 crores (expected)

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Radio starring Himesh Reshammiya has been rejected all over. The opening is in the range of 10 - 20%, even the single screens are extremely poor. With poor reports, the film should be out of theaters by the end of the week.

Box office verdict - FLOP

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In other box office news, De Dana Dan has failed to pick up on its second Friday. Still running at around 800 screens in India (more than Paa), the business of the Akshay Kumar film continues to remain on the lower side. Friday is expected to be around 1.5 - 2 crores, which takes its total to 36 crores. Still, a long way to go for HIT status.

Source

Paa Movie Review - Detailed

2009-12-08T21:51:00.000-08:00

Amitabh Bachchan as Auro - By far the best performance of the year. Most wouldn’t even realize that its indeed Amitabh as Auro, equal credit for which should to go the makeup artists.
While the political angle was too long, it has been well written and executed.
The runtime is about 2 hours and 15 mins.
Balki’s style of narration is simple to understand yet very different.
All characters are well-etched except Amol Arte’s (read the negatives).
Paa was entertaining, sprinkled with light moments right through to the climax. Infact some of the scenes were funnier than those so-called funny comedies of the year.
Loved the Paa Theme and the background music.

Scenes to watch out for, there were so many!

Auro’s introduction scene with Amol Arte presenting him the award. All students shouting his name out loud, was probably a bit too exaggerated, but the scene is sure to give you some goose-bumps.
Khichdi - Pickle scene between Auro and his mother. Sweet, nice and touching.
The maturity with which Arundhati Naag (Vidya’s mother) tackles her daughter’s pregnancy.
The way Auro interacts with Arundhati Naag (his granny, who he calls ‘Bum’, because she has a big ‘bum’)
When Vidya gifts Auro the photograph on his birthday.
Short scenes between Auro and the girl in his class.
The telephonic conversation between Auro and Vishnu (his best friend in class) - Hilarious
One other scene between Auro and Vishnu on Algebra..
Heck, every scene involving Auro was fantastic.

What didn’t work

The political issues dragged on for too long.
Why a busy politician like Amol Arte takes time out for a stranger like Auro? Yes, he has this unfortunate disorder, but there are so many kids in India with different disorders…!
The whole sequence of going to the Rastrapathi Bhavan and then Amol’s day out with Auro, isn’t convincing enough.
The 5 minute scene which included - the love story, pre marital sex between Vidya - Amol, the pregnancy and eventual breakup.. just doesn’t work.
The climax while good, was a bit too filmy (saat pheras et al) but works only due to the emotions involved with Auro on his death bed.

Performances (in order)

No superlative can quite describe Amitabh Bachchan’s performance in Paa. Sorry, no words.
Vidya Balan is fantastic. The only real ‘actress’ of this generation, the other so-called actresses don’t come close! And she looks stunning, almost ethereal!
Arundhati Naag is very good as Auro’s granny.
Abhishek Bachchan does well as Amol Arte.
Paresh Rawal is wasted.

Overall, Paa isn’t flawless nor as emotionally touching as Aamir Khan’s Taare Zameen Par. But Balki’s simple narration, the character of Auro, along with the brilliance of Mr Bachchan - makes Paa one of the best movies of the year. Bachchan’s performance in itself, is worth, more than the price of your ticket.

Rating:

Source

Worst Actors in Bollywood - Male

2009-12-08T21:49:00.002-08:00

A fun poll, not to be taken too seriously and no offense meant to the nominated actors. Here are the nominations for the worst actors in Bollywood

Tusshar Kapoor - Terrible in almost every genre except comedy, Tusshar made his debut in Mujhe Kuch Kehna Hai opposite Kareena Kapoor. The movie was a runaway hit at the box office and Tusshar went on to win several Best debut awards including the Filmfare. Then came a string of disasters (and terrible performances) Kya Dil Ne Kaha, Jeena Sirf Mere Liye, Kuch To Hai, Yeh Dil and many more. He excelled as a dumb (speechless) man in the Golmaal series, probably the only two performances that the actor will be remembered for.
Zayed Khan - Better known as Suzzane Roshan’s brother and Hrithik Roshan’s brother-in-law, Zayed started off well in Main Hoon Na, but its been all down hill since then.. He says he hasn’t been too serious about his career, we think he’s a non-actor.. what about you?
Fardeen Khan - It took Fardeen more than a decade in the industry to show any signs of improvement as an actor.. He was good (by his standards) in All the Best and Life Partner.
John Abraham - Kareena called the actor “expressionless” on Koffee with Karan, we think so too. Having said that, John has achieved a lot more success and earned a lot more money than most ‘good actors’ can even dream off.
Dino Morea - Great looks and physique but zero acting talent. For someone who started off with the blockbuster Raaz, Dino’s career has nose-dived ever since.
Upen Patel - After winning the Best Debut IIFA award for his terrible performance in 36 China Town Upen screamed from roof-tops “I’ve signed eight films and this is just the beginning, but I can’t wait to become a superstar”. He surely must have under-estimated the struggle, dedication, hard-work and most importantly - talent which he clearly lacks - to achieve superstardom. Few disasters later, Upen was last seen in the super-hit Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani. After seeing which, the idea of creating this poll was born.
Bobby Deol - Both, his brother Sunny and father Dharmendra dominated the industry, Bobby unfortunately didn’t come close. He deserves credit though for being the best thing about the trashy Jhoom Barabar Jhoom.
Sohail Khan - Tries too hard to be funny, making innumerably different faces in every on-screen appearance and falls flat almost always.
Himesh Reshammiya - His first film was well marketed - The reason behind him wearing his infamous cap (which was never revealed, but we all knew it was due to hair loss), how he would look without it and also the curiosity to see him act.. all contributed in a big way to make Aap Ka Surroor a huge success at the box office. Then came Karzzz and Radio.. The former collectively put everyone in theater to sleep and the later was by far the most unintentionally funny movies of the year.

Link

Ranbir Kapoor wanted to be like Hrithik Roshan!

2009-12-08T21:49:00.001-08:00

Every newcomer’s dream would be a debut as spectacular as Hrithik Roshan’s, and Ranbir Kapoor was no different.

When Ranbir was 18 and dreaming of a career in Bollywood, he saw Kaho Na Pyaar Hai and instantly became a huge fan of the actor.

He came across a Hrithik fan who saw his idol and said “Yeh to heera hai, heera”. Since then Ranbir wanted to be like Hrithik, and when he made his debut with Saawariya, directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, he wanted his staff to call him Heera. To encourage the Kapoor lad his spot boy, Inder after every shot of Ranbir, said, “Yeh to Heera hai, Heera”

Ranbir sure must have been disappointed with Saawariya failing to click with the audience, but although the actor has a long way to go before he becomes a Hrithik, he surely is going in the right direction with Wake Up Sid and Ajab Prem Ki Ghazan Kahani raking in the moolah at the box office.

Source

Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani Movie Review

2009-12-08T21:47:00.000-08:00

Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif, two of the most good-looking actors in Bollywood come together in Rajkumar Santoshi’s Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani. Santoshi in an interview promised a Laurel-Hardy kinda comedy, something that would appeal to the masses and classes, a movie that would be universally accepted, much like his cult classic Andaaz Apna Apna which released over a decade ago. Can Santoshi who has hard-hitting critically acclaimed films to his credit, recreate the AAA magic?

The movie is about Prem (Ranbir Kapoor) and Jennifer (Katrina Kaif). Prem is the president of ‘Happy Club’ which has a few simple rules - be happy, make others happy, unite couples - but its these very rules that test Prem when he eventually falls head over heels in love with Jennifer.

Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani Review

Here’s what we liked about Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani

If there is one reason why Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani is worth a watch, it has to be the brilliance of Ranbir Kappor. Surrounded by mediocrity and unnecessary madness, Ranbir stands tall in yet another fabulous performance. Undoubtedly, the future ’superstar’ of Bollywood!
Some well written scenes (mentioned below) make the movie, a good one time watch.
Katrina Kaif adds immense value to the movie, purely by her screen presence and stunning looks. Its hard to take your eyes off her, due to which you manage to sit through those 2 - 3 song and dance numbers in the second half.
Supporting characters do well.
The chemistry between Katrina and Ranbir was excellent.
Tere Hone Laga Hoon was by far the best soundtrack in the movie.

Sequences that deserve a mention

When Katrina invites Ranbir to be her dance partner and the sequences that follow with her chosen-by-parents groom are hilarious. Slightly over the top, with Ranbir dancing all the way through with weird expressions, but funny nonetheless.
When the jobless Ranbir takes up a job in a sweets shop to impress Katrina.
Those broken English dialogue scenes were nice, again credit to Ranbir’s fantastic dialogue delivery.
When Ranbir’s mother, in an effort to stop his father from entering the bathroom, flirts with her husband.
Govind Namdeo’s introductory scene which includes that funny ringtone of his assistant.
Last but not the least, when Salman Khan (as himself) makes a dashing special appearance. The girlfriend - yours or mine talk - is sure to bring the house down.

Why we don’t recommend a trip to theaters.

What starts off as a light-hearted romantic movie, turns ugly in the second half with slapstick - Priyadashan style comedy.
The romance between Ranbir and Katrina almost works, but the addition of 2 unnecessary characters into Katrina’s life somewhat ruins it.
Like most madcap comedies in the recent past, Ajab Prem Ki Gazab Kahani lacks a coherent storyline.
Upen Patel is a non-actor, even in those 10 odd minutes of screen time, he irritates.
Ideally Ajab Premki should have been a good 30 mins shorter. Blame those songs, all of which are badly placed.

Overall, Ajab Prem KI Ghazab Kahani belongs to Ranbir Kapoor and to a certain extent Katrina Kaif. The first half is good but its those post-interval portions that prove to be a major let down. Wait for the DVD.

Rating:

Source

Ranbir Kapoor - Sexiest Man Alive

2009-12-08T21:46:00.000-08:00

Its all about being successful isn’t it? After the super-success of Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani, Ranbir Kapoor has been voted as the ‘Sexiest Man Alive’ by the People’s Magazine, ahead of other contenders like John Abraham and Hrithik Roshan.

In response Ranbir says “I really don’t know what sexy is. I am confused as I don’t consider myself sexy at all. There are a thousand things that are wrong with my body and face. When I was growing up, my mom told me handsome is what handsome does. So Amitabh Bachchan is sexy to me in all his films, Shah Rukh is sexy in DDLJ and Aamir is sexy in Rang De Basanti.”

And Ranbir is sexy in Ajab Prem Ki.. But does he seriously deserve the ‘Sexiest Man Alive’ tag? What do you think?

Kaminey Movie Review

2009-08-14T00:21:00.000-07:00

Vishal Bharadwaj is one of most talented directors the industry has produced in the recent past, along with the likes of Imtiaz Ali, Rajkumar Hirani, Anurag Kashyap and Anurag Basu. This, makes Kaminey the most anticipated movie of the year. Presence of immensely popular actors like Shahid Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra add to the hype. So is it worth a watch?

Without revealing much, Kaminey is about Guddu and Charlie (Shahid Kapoor in double roles). The two are twins and while one suffers from a speech disorder (spells S as F), the other stammers. The brothers hate each other, until they bump into each other, one fateful night due to circumstances.. In a battle of survival surrounded by money, drugs and violence.. the two realize they have noone except each other..

Why Kaminey is a MUST watch in theatre

Vishal Bharadwaj’s execution of the pretty complicated script, full of twist and turns, is absolutely flawless. Can’t think of any director in Bollywood, who could have pulled it off with such brilliance.
The writing is what makes this film, a fantastically fun watch. The characters are well etched and the dialogues are witty.
The pace is quick, so quick that you probably would’t be able to grasp the film fully on first viewing. A second watch is highly recommend.
The music is top notch. Dhan Te Nan is an ouright classic which will be remembered, sung and performed for years, if not decades, to come. The background score adds a lot of value to the film.
Shahid Kapoor delivers inarguably the best performance of 2009. With most big stars having no release this year, Shahid should dominate most awards.
Amol Gupte is fabulous and so is each and every character actor in the film.
The ’smooch’ between Priyanka and Shahid, has to be the hottest Bollywood smooch ever. Their chemistry is sizzling. No wonder, there are plenty of rumours of an offscreen relationship.

Some negatives

The film is dark and filled with a lot of blood, gore and corpses. Family audience might stay away, which would certainly affect collections to a certain extent.
What’s disappointing is, Priyanka Chopra is completely wasted. Frankly, she has nothing much to do. Even Amol Gupte has more dialogues and screen time!

Overall, Kaminey is a fun watch. The best Bollywood thriller since Johnny Gaddar!

Rating:

Source

Kaminey and Life Partner - Mumbai Release Date

2009-08-14T00:20:00.000-07:00

Kaminey and Life Partner have great buzz around them, and the last thing the makers would have wanted is a delay in release. But unfortunately due to the Swine Flu scare across the country, multiplexes and malls all over the city of Mumbai will remain closed for 3 days (Friday, Saturday, Sunday).

Production houses of both films have confirmed that the delay in the film’s Mumbai release, will not affect its release across the country and overseas.

Both films should release on Monday (release date - 17th august) in Mumbai.

For those curious, our reviews (for both Life Partner and Kaminey) will be up on Friday as usual. Quite lucky to have special shows, aren’t we..!

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Blue - Akshay Kumar, Katrina Kaif

2009-08-14T00:18:00.000-07:00

The first theatrical trailer of Blue starring Akshay Kumar, Katrina Kaif, Sanjay Dutt, Zayed Khan, Lara Dutta is out and it looks, by Bollywood standard, simply mind blowing. Check it out

There is a lot to look forward to in the film. Every Akshay Kumar film is keenly anticipated and Blue is no different, Katrina Kaif (in an extended special appearance) has probably never looked hotter. Lara Dutta from the promo and the first look, seems to have spent most of her time shooting underwater in lotsa bikini’s.. and Sanjay Dutt always rocks in action entertainers. Not to forget, Kylie Minogue’s item number!!

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Salman Khan quits smoking!

2009-08-14T00:13:00.000-07:00

Salman Khan on his 10 Ka Dum blog, proudly claims to have finally quit smoking! Here’s the latest from his blog post on why he quit the deadly nicotine addiction and exactly how difficult it is to do so..! Read on..

I have quit smoking.

For my family and friends it’s the greatest news and if we were publishing a daily family bulletin, it would make the headline, in the boldest, biggest possible letters.

They say that quitting smoking is the easiest thing in the world because you can do it several times in a day! But I have done it the hard way – today, is my sixth day. I look at a pack of cigarettes and say ‘well this small, burning, foul smelling, filthy thing captured me for years’. A six pack man who slogs for at least hundred minutes in the gym everyday was dominated by this two inch long destroyer that burns end to end in just three minutes!

Every man who quits has to invent his own ways to fight the temptation. Even on my sixth tobacco-less day, I have a very strong urge to smoke. But my denial is equally strong. I think this desire and denial conflict consumes most of our energy.

My memories of smoking still haunt me because it has been a habit that you practice from the moment you wake up and stub the last one just before sleeping. It is said that restlessness drives you to smoke but quitting generates greater restlessness and withdrawal symptoms torture you no end. It almost gives pain to every limb and every muscle in the body. I wonder when one faces the strongest desire to smoke – upon waking up, post meals, while reading or pursuing a favourite hobby, during working hours or relaxing time. Some people need it very badly when they are in the toilet. In fact, most youngsters pick up this nasty habit in the toilet… only because they think they can’t get caught.

I have fought several villains on and off screen but the toughest villain to fight, is quitting smoking!

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Jashn Box office Opening

2009-07-20T06:15:00.000-07:00

Mahesh Bhatt’s Jashn has failed to make any sort of impact at the box-office as the Adhyayan Suman starrer opened to a poor response all over India. Infact, when compared to collections of the Hollywood release, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, Jashn is about 6 times lower..

Quite shocking as the music was popular and most Vishesh Films like Jannat, Raaz - The Mystery continues, opened to good numbers.

The failure of Jashn, which has opened to around 15% collections, just goes to show how under-rated Emraan Hashmi’s star power actually is. When Emraan has worked with the Bhatt’s, their films invariably open to a good response!

With poor word-of-mouth and below average reviews, future looks bleak for Jashn, which also stars Anjana Sukhani and Shahana Goswami. After The Killer and The Train, Jashn is director duo Raksha Mistry and Hasnain Hyderabadwala’s third flop in a row.

Source

SRK’s Dulha Mil Gaya sold for 25 crores!

2009-07-20T06:14:00.000-07:00

Yet another weekend shocker! Dulha Mil Gaya which stars Shahrukh Khan in an extended special apperance, much like Billu (Barber) has been purchased by a Dubai based SRK fan for Rs 25 crores.

25 crores for a film starring Fardeen Khan and Sushmita Sen, is HUGE. Just goes to show how, Shahrukh’s mere presence has increased the value of the film substantially. Viveck Vaswani, the producer of Dulha Mil Gaya and a close friend of SRK, must be one happy man.

With My Name Is Khan now being postponed to early next year, SRK fans are eager to watch him on the big screen, hence the opening of Dulha Mil Gaya is expected to be good, if not great!

The film releases later this year.

Source

Jashn Movie Review

2009-07-18T23:51:00.000-07:00

Vishesh Films’ is one banner that encourages youngsters and although most of their films are understandably low budget, money is spent wisely. Instead of opting for big stars and pricey foreign locations, Bhatt brothers invest in good music, riveting scripts and talented directors. This business model has worked brilliantly for them so far.

Directed by Raksha Mistry and Hasnain Hyderabadwala (The Killer and The Train), Jashn stars Adhyayan Suman, Shahana Goswami, Anjana Sukhani and Pakistani actor Humayun Saeed.

Akash Verma (Adhyayan) is an orphan and is supported by his sister Nisha (Shahana). Despite all his efforts, he is unable to remain competitive in this very competitive world. His sister Nisha is the mistress to a very wealthy and powerful man Aman Bajaj (Humayun Saeed), who financially supports the siblings.

When Akash finds comfort and love in Sara (Anjana Sukhani), fate has a different track planned for him. Sara, who mentored him when he was down, supported and trusted his potential, is none other than his biggest enemy Aman Bajaj’s sister. Amidst all this troubles, does Akash manage to discover his niche and bag stardom? Is he able to restore dignity in his sister’s life?

Jashn Review

Why you should watch Jashn

Music by Sharib Toshi, Aftab Nauman and Sanjay Chandelier is top-notch. Aaye Re stays with you.
Shahana Goswami, what a brilliant actress.. Amazing screen presence and even with excess weight, looks HOT!
Humayun Saeed is simply amazing in a negative role.
Adhyayan Suman tries hard, does well in most scenes. A much improved performance, but isn’t too consistent in emotional sequences.
Effective first half with good dialogues and strong performances.
Directors Raksha and Hasnain have, for a change, opted for original scripts. Both their previous films were Hollywood rip-offs.

Why you should skip this..

From the brief story above, it all seems very predictable doesn’t it. No twist or turns, no suspense or mystery.. Just a old-fashioned tear-jerker, wherein the Hero wins against all odds.
Screenplay lacks continuity.
Confused lead character (Adhyayan). Is it all about talent? Absolutely no screen time is dedicated to portray the characters determination or hard work needed to succeed. Especially a career, the script is dealing with..
Anjana Shukhani is one actress that doesn’t deserve to be called one. She is a huge turn-off on screen.
Pace in the second half is extremely slow, worth about 10 yawns minimum. The directors could have conveyed the same, with more impact in less than 2 hours.
The Climax is poorly written and horribly executed. Adhyayan’s final emotional burst was as over the top as Himesh in Karzzzz.

Overall, Jashn works to a certain extent but is terribly let down by the poorly scripted and executed second half. Its a typical Vishesh Film, with unlucky self destructive characters. I would suggest, you wait for the DVD or the TV premiere.

Rating:

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Kambakht Ishq Box office - Week 2

2009-07-18T23:50:00.000-07:00

Akshay fans would be very disappointed to read this. Second week collections were very important for a big budget film like Kambakht Ishq, but the Akshay Kumar film has crashed in Week 2 by almost 75% all over India.

Usually films that release big (1000+ prints), fall by 40 - 50% in week 2, which is considered normal. 75% drop though, isn’t!

While KI, also starring Kareen Kapoor, grossed about 42 crores (official numbers) in week 1, the second week all India nett gross is less than 10 crores. Comparing Week 2 of Kambakht Ishq to other biggies in the past. Ghajini after a 60 crore+ first week, managed to gross about 26 crores. While Rab Ne after a first week total similar to Kambakht Ishq managed 24.6 crores. Akshay’s Singh Is King too did much better last year.

Ghajini - 26 crores
Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi - 24.60 Crores
Singh Is King - 19 crores
Kambakht Ishq - 10 crores (approx figures, should be lesser)

So what went wrong in week 2, after a decent opening week? Well, the word-of-mouth is poor, the family audience especially have rejected the film outright and lastly the repeat value is almost nil.

Source

Ileana and Nitin in Rechipo

2009-07-10T03:22:00.000-07:00

Source Ragalahari

Court stay on 'Short Kut' for a day

2009-07-09T09:24:00.002-07:00

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday stayed for a day the release of the promos, as also the preview, of Bollywood movie 'Short Kut - The Con Is On' after a filmmaker alleged its producer, Anil Kapoor Film Co Pvt Ltd, had lifted the title of his own proposed film.

On a petition filed by one B.S.Bhullar, Justice Reva Khetrapal of the Delhi High Court ordered the stay till Thursday, when the matter will be heard. With the movie set for release Friday, the judge also asked the two parties to mutually resolve the issue.

Bhullar contended he had registered the title 'Short Kut' in Sep 2005 and the Bollywood actor's production company copied it in an "illegal and unauthorised" manner.

Bhullar claimed that to make his own movie, he had forwarded the script to Anil Kapoor and offered him a key role in the film. However, Kapoor had turned down the offer, Bhullar added.

The film stars Akshaye Khanna, Arshad Warsi and Amrita Rao.

Source: IANS

Why Akshay wanted to party with Shah Rukh?

2009-07-09T09:24:00.001-07:00

When Akshay Kumar decided to throw his first party in Bollywood to celebrate the opening collections of his 'Kambakkht Ishq', he made it a point to invite Shah Rukh Khan even though the superstar was far away in San Francisco.

"Yes, I did call Shah Rukh Khan to invite him. When Kareena and I suddenly decided on Sunday evening to have a party, we decided we'd invite the entire industry. This wasn't a party to celebrate our success alone. It was also a party to celebrate the success of 'New York' as much as my own film. So, apart from me and Kareena, the party's unofficial hosts were Katrina (Kaif), John (Abraham) and the entire 'New York' team," said Akshay.

Akshay has often accused members of the film industry of trying to sabotage his films but he still wanted everyone to come together for the success of two films following a slump.

"I want them to celebrate any success and not be happy when films fail. When 'New York' was released, SMS messages against the film were sent out. The same thing is happening with my film. Why be negative? Especially when I've always been happy for all my colleagues' successes?" Akshay asked.

"So yes, I personally called up Shah Rukh and all my colleagues for the party. But he's shooting in San Francisco...There will be plenty more occasions, I'm sure," the actor said.

The party hosted at the Marriott Hotel Monday night was Akshay's first ever.

"I completely shy away from parties. But this time I think we all needed to express solidarity and happiness over the end of the prolonged slump," he said.

The impromptu party was Kareena's idea. "We quickly drew up a list. She invited her friends. I invited mine. Then we began making the calls. Then there was Tina (wife Twinkle) who called her friends. That just about covered the whole industry," Akshay added.

And how was the party?

"No drinking for me. But a lot of dancing. It was a lot of fun," the star said.

Source: IANS

Amitabh Bachchan in hospital for 'routine checkup'

2009-07-09T09:23:00.001-07:00

Bollywood star Amitabh Bachchan went to Lilavati Hospital on Wednesday morning for what was described as "a routine checkup", though in his blog he has complained of a stomach ache.

Though the hospital authorities declined to comment, the same old stomach problem that Bachchan, 66, has been suffering from for long may have recurred.

In his blog in the morning, Bachchan has admitted to getting a tummy ache just before he embarked for Mumbai from London a day earlier.

On arrival, he drove straight to his doctor late Tuesday night and underwent an examination and a CT scan. These revealed nothing but since the trouble persisted, more tests were advised for Wednesday, he says in his blog.

Until all the test results are out and a line of treatment finalised, he has cancelled all his shooting and travel plans, he writes.

Bachchan has vented his frustration saying despite "extreme care", the problem keeps recurring and medication and rest have been the order of the day.

Source: IANS

'Sikandar' shows Kashmir problem through children's eyes

2009-07-09T09:22:00.000-07:00

Filmmaker Piyush Jha insists that his 'Sikandar' is not just another film set in Kashmir. He says the movie tries to present the situation in the trouble-torn Valley through the eyes of children living there.

" 'Sikandar' basically reflects the situation of Kashmir seen through the eyes of children. Children are the hope of the country and thus this film is very relevant at this time, especially for the younger generation," Jha told us over telephone from Mumbai.

"It's a film full of hope but told in a manner that is not preachy. It is involving and intriguing and connects at an emotional level," said the adfilmaker-turned-director.

'Sikandar', which will hit theatres Aug 21, is produced by Big Pictures and Sudhir Mishra and has child actors Parzan Dastur and Ayesha Kapoor playing lead characters. It also features actors like Sanjay Suri and R. Madhavan in pivotol roles.

Set in Jammu and Kashmir, the film is centred on a teenage boy, who dreams of playing football at the national level, and his friend, played by Ayesha Kapoor. But one day he finds a gun on the road and things change for him thereafter.

Though the film has children as its protagonists, the director refuses to call it a children's film.

" 'Sikandar' is not a children's film at all. It just has two important characters as children but it's for everyone. Just like 'Taare Zameen Par' had a child protagonist but it appealed to people of all ages, this film too will appeal to one and all," said Jha, who has made two satirical comedies "Chalo America" and "King Of Bollywood" earlier.

The film is shot entirely in the Valley and Jha maintains that the cast and crew faced no difficulty during the shooting schedule.

Talking about his experience he said: "Shooting the film in Kashmir was a great experience. The locals there and our local coordinators were so helpful. We got tremendous support from the people of the Valley and did not face any kind of problem. I would really like to appreciate the Kashmiri people.

And how difficult was it to get the Kashmiri flavour in the film?

"Extensive research went behind making the film as authentic as possible. I had to study the Kashmiri culture a lot and for that I travelled across the Valley and read about it at length.

"I met Kashmiris in the Valley and also outside to know things. We had to research the way they talk, they walk, basically everything," the director explained.

The film was to release in March but was delayed mainly due to the strike in Bollywood over the revenue-sharing row between producers and multiplex owners.

"The strike was the main reason for the delay. Once the strike was over after two months, films with huge star casts were releasing. So we were looking for a right slot," Jha said.

Source: IANS

Saif - Kareena Kiss!

2009-07-08T10:46:00.001-07:00

Saif Ali Khan and real-life girl friend Kareena Kapoor have recently indulged in a lot of kissing with their respective co-stars. Kareena had as many as 5 lip locks with Akshay Kumar in Kambakht Ishq, while the upcoming Love Aaj Kal starring Saif Ali Khan and Deepika Padukone too has multiple kissing scenes.

But with Rensil D’Silva’s upcoming film Jehad, Saif - Kareena kiss for the very first time (By first time, we mean on screen) The couple also have quite a few intimate scenes which also includes a kiss.

Saif talking about the kiss, which was shot recently, said it was quite different from kissing his other co-stars and he was pretty comfortable doing the scene as Kareena is his girlfriend.

The shooting for Jehad is now complete and the couple is all set to sizzle on screen late 2009.

Source

Don't Test Salman's Patience

2009-07-07T10:15:00.000-07:00

Here are some updates on Salman's upcoming film VEER, which is being directed by Anil Sharma.

Now, reports are that Salman is furious with the director's approach to the project. Buzz is that Anil Sharma goofed up with the UK schedule of the film and everyone was complaining about the levels of productivity displayed while shooting there.

Though Salman has already conveyed his displeasure at the director's attitude but nothing much seems to have changed on ground. Reports are that Salman's growing fury against the director might be bad news for the film.

With the film mired in controversies from day one, looks like this ambitious project is in need of some real good luck.

Src

Priyanka-Hurman BACK together?

2009-07-07T10:14:00.002-07:00

Well, well. Look who is cosying up to former boyfriend Hurman Baweja. Last week, the cast and crew of the Priyanka Chopra-Hurman starrer What's Your Raashee? witnessed something rather interesting. The actress, who recently broke up with Shahid Kapoor, was seen enjoying the company of her former lover Hurman Baweja in Khandala. The duo didn't leave each other's side at a party held after the shoot.

A source present at the party said, "Hurman and Priyanka were shooting for a song for What's Your Raashee? in the outskirts of Mumbai. Only this rain song was left to be shot before officially wrapping up the film's shoot schedule. After we packed up late in the night, we decided to have a party at a bungalow nearby in Khandala. Hurman and Priyanka too decided to attend the party."

"While everyone had a great time, the most noticeable were Hurman and Priyanka. The two had eyes only for each other throughout the party, which went on for almost four hours. As Priyanka and Hurman sat there chatting and relaxing, everyone could see the sparks flying between them. The former lovers had a great time together," added the source.

While Hurman admitted he attended the party, he refused to say anything more. Are you planning to get back together, guys? And is Shahid, well and truly in the past?

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Shilpa Shetty gets Eco-Friendly by Supporting Solar-Power Lamps

2009-07-07T10:14:00.001-07:00

Shilpa Shetty is doing her bit to fight global warming. She has joined hands with Freeplay Energy India, a company that produces hand crank lanterns that generate electricity without using fuel.

The actress' foundation will distribute these solar power- generated lamps for free to villages in India.

No Fuels Needed

Shilpa, who is currently in London, says, "The company has a patent technology called Crank. You don't need any kerosene or electricity or natural resources to light up these lamps. One just needs to wind up the crank system manually for one minute and you get 15 minutes of bright light. It's great for villages with no light. This way, we can save on pollution from burning fuels."

Giving Ways

The actress has tied up with the company to be her sole suppliers for these lamps, which cost roughly between Rs 1000-1500 each, "I have also incorporated solar power in some lamps which I will be giving out free through my organisation, the Shilpa Shetty Foundation to some villages that don't have electricity.

It's been a cause that I feel for, besides it also promotes the cause of fighting global warming by conserving energy. Since we are giving the lamps for free we are asking people to donate generously. Recently, I have given away my prize winnings from the show 10 Ka Dum show to the SSF. We need to do our bit for society as much as we can."

Src : Mid-Day

Aamir, Bazmee to Come Together

2009-07-07T10:12:00.000-07:00

This is a pair which should be worth watching. If reports are true, then it may not be a very long wait before one sees Aamir with Aneez Bazmee. The writer cum director is very busy completing his script for Aamir. The film, when it is made, will be done so under Boney Kapoor's banner and will be a crime comedy.

Aamir who has reinvented himself with every movie, is known to be a perfectionist who likes to have a complete script in hand well before the shooting. However, Bazmee is not used to working like this. The director of films like Welcome, Aankehn and No Entry, believes in improvising. Hence, it seems that he has taken it upon himself as a challenge to complete the script and then get Aamir to sign on the dotted line. According to Bazmee, the story has one leading male character and four females. Currently, the director is also all set to begin shooting No Problem, which goes on the floors on July 10. The film which is being produced by Anil Kapoor Productions, will have its first schedule in South Africa. The film stars, Sanjay Dutt, Akshaye Khanna, Paresh Rawal and Anil, among others.

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Shruti Hassan in Bikini!

2009-07-07T06:47:00.000-07:00

Kamal Hassan’s daughter Shruti Hassan is all set to make her entry into Bollywood and the girl sure has the right attitude for super stardom. She also has no qualms of slipping into a bikini, if the script demands her to.

Shruti Hassan in Bikini for Luck

According to sources, the super-star kid has left very little to imagination in her very first film, Luck, opposite Imran Khan. Shruti will be seen wearing a two-piece Bikini’s as per the demands of the script says director Soham Shah “We shot the (Bikini) sequence in Cape Town. The temperature was only two degrees. Shruti had to brave the icy weather for the shoot. The scene involves Imran Khan, Ravi Kissen and Mithun da. She was not at all apprehensive of wearing a two piece swimwear, as she was aware of it much before.”

Talking of the particular scene to a local daily, Shruti says “When Soham narrated the script, I did not even consider the bikini thing as a big deal it was logical to the premise. It was freezing cold, but apart from that it was like any other scene in the film for me.”

Source

Box office figures: Kambakht Ishq vs Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi

2009-07-07T06:46:00.000-07:00

Well, many have been arguing endlessly over the box office figures of Kambakht Ishq and Shahrukh Khan’s Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi.. To clear it up, we have the official numbers of both films.

Kambakht Ishq has just released, hence we only have the opening weekend numbers. The film has done exceptional business over the weekend with a net gross of almost 25 crores including the paid preview shows on Thursday.

The figures of SRK’s Rab Ne.. too were almost the same. It remains to be seen which film will end up the bigger earner at the Indian box-office.

Note:- Aamir Khan’s Ghajini isn’t even in the picture here, it was miles ahead of both films with a nett gross of more than 30 crores over the weekend.

Here you go, the official opening weekend and week-by-week figures of Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi.

Opening - 25 crores

Week 1 - 42.20 Crores
Week 2 - 24.60 Crores
Week 3 - 9.30 Crores
Week 4 - 4.90 Crores
Week 5 - 3.05 Crores
Week 6 - 1.25 Crores
Week 7 - 0.68 Crores
Week 8 - 0.30 Crores

Total - 86.28 (8 weeks)

Kambakht Ishq

Opening - 24.50 crores

Source

Earthy, soulful music clicks in 'Kailasa Chaandan Mein'

2009-07-06T06:55:00.000-07:00

Kailasa - the Band, which comprises Kailash Kher and brothers Paresh and Naresh Kamath, has proven its mettle before with its previous albums 'Kailasa' and 'Kailasa Jhoomo Re'. And it doesn't disappoint in 'Chaandan Mein' either - the music is soulful and soaked in folk influences, the lyrics are thought-provoking and Kailash Kher's renditions are captivating.

Music Review

'Kailasa Chaandan Mein' is a sheer delight for music buffs.

The album kickstarts with "Chaandan Mein", a soft and slow-paced track with a folk setting that has a rustic feel. Kher's charismatic voice grows on the listener and without doubt is the highlight of the song. "Chaandan mein" is a poignant love ballad with lyrics and composition that are top-notch.

Up next is a totally opposite, fun track titled "Na batati tu" that begins with the strumming of the acoustic guitar. The song, a fusion of Indian and western arrangements, is high on energy and brilliantly sung by Kher. The song has an amazing ending that takes listeners to another level altogether.

"Teri yaad mein" is a poignant number after the foot-tapping "Na batati tu" and creates a completely different mood. The steady pace of the song and the profound lyrics make it an interesting hear.

Next in line is "Bheeg gaya mera mann", a song meant for the monsoons. The use of the guitar, tabla and flute in the song, added with engrossing lyrics, makes it one of the most beautiful rain numbers.

"Ishq ho gaya" is one of the best songs in the album that expresses the despair of a woman who has fallen in love. The haunting and edgy musical backing along with brilliant and intense vocals by Kher make the song stand out. The band seems to have gone that extra mile to compose this track.

Another song with an earthy flavour is "Piya ghar aavenge". But this one is average.

Next on the playlist is "Rang rangma". It is an amalgamation of Indian and western instruments but still has a Rajasthani folk feel to it. The song is not as interesting as the others in the album.

A different track in the album is "Kar kar mein haara". The musical instruments used are varied - from the sitar to the guitar. A foot-tapping, pleasing and simple number, it is sure to strike a chord with listeners. The song has great lyrics.

Along with these eight tracks, the album also entails two equally nice bonus tracks from the band's previous albums - "Albela saajan" from 'Kailasa' and "Tere naina" from 'Kailasa Jhoomo Re'.

On the whole, 'Kailasa Chaandan Mein' could well help Kailasa score a hat-trick of super hit albums.

Source: IANS

John, Katrina voted most eligible single celebrities

2009-07-06T06:54:00.002-07:00

Bollywood actors John Abraham and Katrina Kaif have been voted as the most eligible single celebrities in an online poll.

The poll conducted by matrimonial website shaadi saw responses from over 18,000 netizens, a statement from the company said Friday.

Nearly 48 percent of males voted for Katrina as the most eligible single female and 43 percent females named John as their favoured eligible bachelor.

While the 'Dostana' actor polled more votes than Salman Khan, Saif Ali Khan, Ranbir Kapoor, Rahul Gandhi, M.S. Dhoni and Yuvraj Singh, Katrina scored over divas like Bipasha Basu, Deepika Padukone, Kareena Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra and Sonam Kapoor.

"It's nice to see the way our members' preferences for an ideal partner have changed drastically. Its not just about looks and fashion trends but about power and higher social standing that makes a person more attractive and appealing," Gourav Rakshit, business head of shaadi, said.

Source: IANS

"Gay" verdict gets three cheers from Bollywood

2009-07-06T06:54:00.001-07:00

Bollywood can't stop talking about the Delhi High Court's landmark judgement that has decriminalised gay sex. From Shatrughan Sinha to Sushmita Sen, all say the verdict was long due and celebrates an individual's right to choose. And they all feel lesbians, gays and transgenders can finally live freely without fear.

Shatrughan Sinha: Old rusty laws are like useless politicians. They should be thrown out. I'm glad Section 377 has been repealed. It was long due. What two people do in the privacy of their bedroom is nobody's business. Homosexuality is not a phenomenon restricted to one country, culture or community. All over the world some of the finest minds are inclined towards same-sex relationships. What is wrong with that as long as two people are happy?

John Abraham: I think the right to a personal choice is a very fundamental right and, thank god, the law against homosexuals has been repealed. Yes, I've gay fans and I did a film 'Dostana', which mercifully did not ridicule the community. I've been brought up in a very liberal Parsi-Catholic household. I believe minorities don't exist any longer. Every community - including homosexuals - has a majority voice.

Rituparno Ghosh: Better late than never!

Sushmita Sen: I always salute decisions that celebrate an individual's right to choose. I could never understand any form of love or any kind of relationship being 'criminal'. Cheers to all those human beings who have won the freedom of choice.

Mugdha Godse: I welcome this decision with open arms. I'm happy a man now has as much right to love a man as he has the right to love a woman. Gays no longer need to hide their feelings. I'm happy for many of my friends.

Manisha Koirala: Some of my closest friends are gay and they are among the best human beings I know. I think such an ancient law needed to be repealed long ago. We live in contemporary times when people of all genders and sexual preferences must be looked at in the same line of vision.

Shekhar Kapoor: This should've been done long ago.

Irrfan Khan: It's a sign of a system adopting a viewpoint that indicates openness. This will rid the guilt that gays live with and stop police exploitation of the community. I played a gay character in Mira Nair's short film directed by Zoya Akhtar. I researched on their anguish. It was terrifying.

Sanjay Suri: Criminalisation of gay sex among consenting adults was a violation of fundamental human rights. It's a progressive judgement. The law should have been done away with ages ago."

Purab Kohli: Super. It's a giant step ahead in the image India is building globally.

Rajeev Khandelwal: I believe in 'to each his own'. That article 377 has been repealed reveals a very mature attitude to an universal issue.

Chitrangada Singh: I think it's great. Every individual has the right to self-expression. Homosexuality didn't stop existing just because we all denied it.

Neil Nitin Mukesh: Thank god people realised homosexuals are human beings with deep emotions and urges for which they were being punished for years. Now they can live peacefully without the law breathing down their necks. This change was long overdue.

Riya Sen: Most of my closest friends are homosexuals. I'm very happy for the gay community. We're a democracy; so why curb anyone's freedom?"

Raveena Tandon: Absolutely fantastic! Equal rights for all and the freedom of choice.

Subhash Ghai: I'm always receptive to the changing world and the truth about human nature being revealed. Since the inner truth is always more real than the social truth, the reality within takes time to come out and be accepted by society.

Maradona Rebeillo: The court verdict is a positive step. But it's important that Indian society also accepts homosexuals and gives them breathing space.

Imtiaz Ali: One more step forward in personal freedom and towards building a fair and liberated country.

Abbas Tyrewala: I'm amazed and delighted. It's a step I thought we wouldn't be ready to take for another 20 years. Now if only we showed the same maturity in providing the right to freedom and option in marriage, religion, censorship, etc.

Apoorva Lakhia: A right step in the right direction for the new India.

Source: IANS

Why Abbas Tyrewala chopped Naseer, Ratna's role?

2009-07-06T06:53:00.002-07:00

After 'Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na', Naseeruddin Shah and his wife Ratna Pathak became lucky mascots for Abbas Tyrewala, but he has deleted their roles from his next '1:800 Love'.

Have Tyrewala and the two veteran artists fallen out?

"Nothing of the sort," laughed Tyrewala. "I had written roles specially for Ratna and Naseer. They were supposed to play a husband and wife, this time both alive and kicking. So the rumours that their roles would be reversed and Naseer would be talking to Ratna's portrait were completely wrong," Tyrewala told us.

In 'Jaane Tu...' Naseer and Ratna played Imran Khan's parents. While Naseer was just a photograph, Ratna played a protective mother.

So what went wrong?

"Nothing," said Abbas. "It's just that the shooting is in London and Ratna-Naseer were required for just four days. To have them fly down for that little work seemed self-indulgent on my part.

"And what if the weather got bad? I'd have had to make them stay over. Instead of putting them through these hardships, I just deleted their roles from the script," said Tyrewala who hopes to cast them in far more pivotal roles in his next.

Now Ratna, who was creative consultant of "Jaane Tu...", is once again on board as a script consultant.

Source: IANS

'Love Aaj Kal' is a family film: Imtiaz Ali

2009-07-06T06:53:00.001-07:00

Imtiaz Ali openly admits that his upcoming 'Love Aaj Kal', which stars Saif Ali Khan and Deepika Padukone, has unabashed kissing scenes and shows the lead actors mouthing expletives, but the director insists that it will still be a complete family entertainer.

The director says he has included the so-called objectionable scenes in the movie's promos so that people are already used to it by the time they see the film.

"See, it's the way you put it in the film and treat it. It's up to the filmmaker not to make his film some fodder for perversion or lechery." Ali told us.

Ali promises that 'Love Aaj Kal", which is Saif's production debut, is a film that would be accepted by an entire family.

"Kisses included," he winks. "Nobody will feel inhibited watching 'Love Aaj Kal'. No one will hesitate walking into the film with his family. All that is potentially objectionable in the film in the strictest of sense has been taken care of in the first promo. If you have warmed up on it, rest assured you will love 'Love Aaj Kal'," the filmmaker said.

'Love Aaj Kal' is his third love story after 'Socha Na Tha' and the blockbuster 'Jab We Met'.

But there were people around Ali who weren't too comfortable with the idea of showing Saif trying to hold Deepika's butt, then share an unabashed kiss with her in the car and also mouth Hinglish expletives on a date right in the promo itself.

"They thought that people may get an impression that the film was only about these things but I had my own viewpoint," explains Ali.

"My argument is that audiences are really smart. They pretty much see the intention of the filmmaker and make up their mind to watch the film accordingly. We better start taking them seriously rather than attempt at fooling them by considering ourselves over smart," he says.

To substantiate his claim, Ali goes on to share an anecdote from his experience during the making of "Jab We Met", which starred Shahid Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor.

"Remember the sequence in the second half of the film when Kareena curses her ex-boyfriend on phone? She goes on to say 'Teri Maa Ki' and a lot more. Did the audience feel awkward? Not at all. In fact they laughed during the entire scene and not a single soul came and told me that he/she felt offended by the language," Ali reasons.

The director, however, admits that for 'Love Aaj Kal', the prime target audience is the younger crowd.

"And that's more by accident rather than planned," he says. "The film caters to them mainly because it's this age group that goes and sees films in theatres. Due to this, even when I am conceptualising a film and then putting it on celluloid, I feel safe from my target audience perspective," he explains.

With music by Pritam and lyrics by Irshad Kamil, 'Love Aaj Kal' is set for a July 31 release.

Source: IANS

Who replaced whom in 'Run Bhola Run'?

2009-07-06T06:52:00.001-07:00

There seems to be some confusion regarding who replaced whom in Neeraj Vora's 'Run Bhola Run'. Tanushree Dutta was apparently replaced by Celina Jaitley, but she denies it.

"Tanushree was supposed to do the role that Amisha Patel has finally done. She was cast opposite Govinda," said Celina.

But Amisha firmly refutes Celina's claim. "I haven't replaced anyone. I've been working on the film from day one. Celina has replaced Tanushree," she said.

Tanushree endorses Amisha's statement.

"I was supposed to be doing the role opposite Tusshar Kapoor that Celina is now doing. I had to opt out because the film got delayed and I had other commitments, which I couldn't wriggle out of. Although she isn't paired with Govinda, the character I was supposed to do has a lot of scenes with Govinda," said Tanushree.

"Celina was a natural choice because she's doing other films with Govinda and their dates were easier to synchronise than mine and Govinda's. I'd have loved to work with Govinda. Sadly, they faced a lot of hiccups in their schedules earlier. Once I opted out, the film was completed smoothly. My bad luck," she added.

Tanushree also regrets missing out on working with the producers Shree Ashtavinayak Cine Vision Ltd.

"I had done a guest appearance for them earlier in 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa'. Fortunately, there was no bad blood because of this 'Run Bhola Run' incident. But like I said, I was replaced by Celina. Amisha was always in the project," she said.

Source: IANS

After terror film, Nishikant Kamat writes 'escapist entertainer'

2009-07-06T06:50:00.000-07:00

After making the gritty and acclaimed 'Mumbai Meri Jaan', which revolved around the 2006 serial train bombings in the city, one expected the shy yet brilliant Nishikant Kamat to delve deeper into terrorism. But the filmmaker wants to make a masala entertainer instead.

He is scripting an out-and-out escapist film - a full-on masala action adventure. And Nishikant has roped in John Abraham to play the lead.

"Yes, what you've heard is true. I've had my share of realism for now. My first film 'Dombivli Fast' (in Marathi), its Tamil remake (featuring Madhavan) and 'Mumbai Meri Jaan' all went into the realistic topical creative space. I now want to try my hand at an escapist entertainer," Kamat said.

"It's a challenge. Because it's very difficult to do the incredible in a credible manner," he added.

Nishikant is also committed to doing a Hindi version of 'Dombivli Fast' for producers Abbas-Mustan.

"But that's not my priority right now," he said.

John, who is a big fan of Kamat's 'Mumbai Meri Jaan', was apparently instrumental in convincing production house UTV to take on the project.

While refusing to comment on the project with Kamat, John feels there were four award-worthy performances in 'Mumbai Meri Jaan'.

"I'm talking about Paresh Rawal, Kay Kay Menon, Madhavan and Irrfan Khan. What performances, man! I'd hope to equal that level of acting in my work," the actor said.

John, who has been labelled Bollywood's favourite pin-up actor after 'Dostana', now wants to be noticed for his acting skills too.

"The body-beautiful bracket is not a bad place to be in. But I'd also like to be recognised as a capable actor now," he added.

Source: IANS

I was to do Akshaye's role in 'Short Kut': Anil Kapoor

2009-07-06T06:49:00.002-07:00

If the original cast of 'Short Kut - The Con Is On' would have remained intact, audiences would have seen Anil Kapoor playing the role that Akshaye Khanna now essays. Also, Arshad was a late entry into the project as he finally got the part written for Akshaye.

"Yes, the film did see some casting changes though all of it happened before it went on floors. Akshaye was always the first choice for the film and he was on board immediately. After 'Gandhi My Father', it was but natural that he acts in my next production as well," Anil told us.

But due to a couple of reasons Anil had to opt out of the project and stay on primarily as a producer.

"Originally I was supposed to do Akshaye's role and he was to do Arshad's role. It was around the same time that Subhash Ghai asked me to do 'Black & White'. I had no reason to say no since I have very high regard for him. We have worked in some wonderful movies together ('Ram Lakhan,' 'Karma', 'Taal') and with 'Black & White' we would have come together after a long time," the versatile actor said.

Around the same time, Anil's dates were also clashing with Yash Raj Films' 'Tashan'.

"Subhash-ji certainly wanted me in his project and requested me if I could postpone 'Short Kut' for a while. Since I couldn't do that as we were ready to kick-start our project, I proposed to move out of my own project. This is when I requested Akshaye to step into the role written for me," he said.

Considering the fact that Akshaye had made up his mind to play the role of a lovable brat, wasn't it difficult for him to have a re-look at the film with a different perspective?

"See, Akshaye is such a versatile actor that he could do well in both the roles. He has a sensitive side to him, something that I realised when I worked with him in 'Taal'. I had complete confidence that he would be convincing in the other role too," Anil said.

Roping in Arshad wasn't difficult at all. "He consented to the film immediately..."

Incidentally, Paresh Rawal too was approached for playing one of the important roles in 'Short Kut'.

"We would have loved to see him as a part of our film. We approached him for the role of an acting guru-cum-secretary, which is now being played by Chunky Pandey. But Paresh was bowled over by Arshad's part and wanted to do his role," Anil revealed.

"He was keen to play the role of a bad actor who achieves superstardom. Nevertheless, I'm extremely happy with the way the final casting has worked out for my film. I'm now quite positive that audiences too would find the film as funny and entertaining as we all do."

Directed by Neeraj Vora, 'Short Kut' boasts of a special appearance by both Anil and Sanjay Dutt along with leading lady Amrita Rao in a dance number "Mareez-e-mohabbat". The film is all set for a July 10 release.

Source: IANS

Akshay' son Aaarav sits through Kambakkht Ishq

2009-07-06T06:49:00.001-07:00

Kambakkht Ishq is the first Akshay Kumar starrer that his son Aarav stayed awake watching till the end, thanks to his naani Dimple Kapadia who not only cheered the film at a private screening on Wednesday night but also made sure Aarav remained enthused.

It hasn't been an easy time for the gorgeous Dimple Kapadia. In spite of a cloud hovering over her happiness, what with sister Simple seriously ill for some time now, Dimple was prominently present at Akshay's special screening of Kambakkht Ishq on Wednesday evening.

Not too many people know this. But Akshay Kumar's biggest fan is his mother-in-law Dimple Kapadia. Taking time off from looking after her ailing sister, Dimple showed up at Akshay Kumar's special screening with 30 of her friends. And Dimple enjoyed herself thoroughly.

Says Akshay shyly, ''My mother and mother-in-law are my biggest supporters. My mom came with about 120 of our friends and relatives. My mom-in-law had invited 30 of her friends. And they seemed to be having a good time.''

Dimple makes it a point to watch all of Akshay's major films and insists on bringing her pals along. But she also makes it very clear that the most important man in her life is Akshay's son Aarav.

''That's true,'' laughs Akshay. ''In fact I value my mother-in-law and my son's opinion the most.''

Aarav known to doze off at all of Akshay's Premieres stayed awake right till the end of the special screening of Kambhakkt Ishq. ''My mother-in-law made sure Aarav was comfortable. Both of them kept laughing throughout the film and that's a good sign.''

Source: Bollywood Hungama

'Short Kut..' is a highly emotional film: Arshad Warsi

2009-07-06T06:48:00.001-07:00

Arshad Warsi speaks about his latest film 'Short Kut - The Con is On!, and more!

Q. You've worked with newly set up production houses before. What are the criteria on which you decide to work for them?

It all depends on who owns or runs the production house. There are so many people who are new comers and want to make films. 99% of them do not want to make films because they love cinema but because they want to know the industry and get to know these gorgeous actresses. People like ABCL, AKFC are in the cinema, know cinema and like cinema. That is the reason I've too set up my own production house called 'Shooting Stars'.

Q. We really like the look of yours on the posters of 'Short Kut'.

Oh, don't say that. I look pathetic in 'Short Kut'. Actually, my look on the posters is from Vishal Bhardwaj's film 'Ishqiya'. I was shooting for 'Ishqiya' and had come for the photo shoot. So the banners are looking good. I do these stupid things and then regret by saying, 'Why did I do this?' I play a role of a guy who has no scope of becoming an actor and yet becomes one. He is a bad actor with a bad look and is not meant to be anywhere near the film industry. So I wanted this guy to be as grungy as possible. Badly dressed, etc.

Q. Have you decided yourself not to break away from the comic image everyone has tagged you into?

No I don't. The fact is that eight out of ten films that are being made are comedy. You can't be so obscure and wait for those two films that are serious to come your way. I don't even remember the last time I saw a sensible cinema being made, like 'New York'.

Q. So the famous Neha Dhupia quote should change?

Yes, SRK, sex and comedy sells. Absolutely correct.

Q. When do we see you in a sensible one then?

I'm actually fed up doing comic roles. It's like eating the same food every day. Comedy is getting on my nerves now. But I keep myself growing by doing different kind of comedy. I've never repeated my Munnabhai character ever. Once the film is over, my role is over and my character is gone. 'Short Kut' is a new role for me. I've never played a crazy, funny and a villainous guy before in any film. Vishal Bhardwaj's 'Ishqiya' will also have a different sense of humour. 'Dhamaal' and 'Golmaal' were like chalk and cheese too. I'm waiting for some sensible film to come my way now.

Q. How would you describe your humour?

I don't have any humour. I'm an actor who performs the role. You write a role for me and I will play it much better than how it is written. That much I can guarantee you. I cannot define anything and in today's time we actors are slaves to the pen.

Q. Akshaye Khanna is termed as a man who sticks to himself. He is more of a recluse. Is that true?

Yes. He is a guy who keeps to himself. I don't know him very well as a person because personally, I haven't hung out with him. We haven't spent a lot of time together. But whenever I've seen him, he is in his own world. Having said that, he is a damn good actor. His last film 'Gandhi My Father' deserved an award. I remember seeing his first film 'Himalaya Putra' and I said, "This guy can act." He has done a very good job in 'Short Kut' too.

Q. How's your rapport with Anil Kapoor?

He is a fighter. Anil Kapoor is the only man in the film industry who will come across as a new comer, from his first film to his last. He always wants to prove that he is the best, and he has always proved himself right. Anil is the best in the business.

Q. Has your wife seen the film?

Yes. Maria has seen it and she liked it. She liked the music of 'Short Kut' and whenever I came on screen. Other than that, I think the romantic bit in the film got dragged a little bit.

Source: Bollywood Hungama

My Name Is Khan New Pictures!

2009-07-05T22:21:00.001-07:00

We received two new on-the-set pictures of Shahrukh Khan’s much anticipated movie My Name Is Khan. The pics were sent by Indicine reader Anupama and here is what she had to say in her e-mail.. (pictures below)

“Got some pictures of My name is Khan. Thought of sending them to you, so that I can share it with all the Indicine friends. If you think they are worth putting on your site, please upload these. I think SRK fans will love them.”

Thanks for the pictures Anupama!

First picture looks like a wedding scene. Is that SRK and Kajol’s son (standing next to her) in the film? Second picture is Kajol’s hand with Mehndi on..!

Katrina Kaif and Aamir Khan look great together!

2009-07-05T22:19:00.000-07:00

While browsing through one of Aamir Khan’s fan sites (aamirkhan.org), we found this scan from the July 2009 issue of Cine Blitz with Aamir as Guru Dutt and Katrina Kaif as Waheeda Rehman.

Must say Katrina Kaif looks simply stunning and Aamir as usual just perfect! Have a look, post your comments below.

(click below for a higher resolution picture)

Pic: Aamir Khan and Katrina Kaif on Cine Blitz, July 2009

Source

Luck movie pictures

2009-07-05T22:18:00.001-07:00

Luck has quite a few positives, which could ensure a decent to good opening at the box-office. The film has an interesting ensemble cast and is also the launch vehicle of the legendary Kamal Hassans\’s daughter Shruti Hassan.

Luck also stars Imran Khan, Sanjay Dutt, Ravi Kissen, Danny Denzongpa and Mithun Chakraborty. Directed by Soham Shah who last directed for Dharma Production’s Kaal in 2005, Luck releases on 24th July 2009.

Have a look a the Luck Movie Pictures.

Source

IIFA Awards 2009 Pictures

2009-07-05T22:15:00.002-07:00

IIFA Awards 2009 was a mega event attended by most Bollywood biggies, but why were the 3 big Khan’s missing?

Aamir Khan - He doesn’t attend any awards, whether its the Filmfare, the Star screen or the IIFA.

Shahrukh Khan - Hasn’t graced the IIFA awards in the last 3 years, something to do with his much-discussed Bachchan rivalry?

Salman Khan - Very obvious reasons..

So although the Khan’s were missed, the others more than made up for it. Vinod Gopani, one of the readers of Indicine, received a VIP pass for the awards ceremony and also had a chance to interact with the stars. He clicked quite a few pictures, here are some of them.

Vinod, it would be great if you could share your IIFA experience in the comments section. Thanks for the pics!

Source

Paying Guest Movie Review

2009-07-05T22:15:00.001-07:00

Before we get down to discussing whether Paying Guest, a comic caper directed by Paritosh Painter, is worth a watch this weekend in theatre or not, let’s take a look at the story.

Paying Guest revolves around four young, carefree and perky guys (Shreyas Talpade, Javed Jaffrey, Ashish Chowdhary and Vatsal Sheth). The four go through a series of ultra comical hurdles in attempts to find a shelter that can tolerate their combined problems. The owner Ballu (Johnny Lever) puts across a crazy condition, he would rent the place only to couples. With no other option left, these guys give in to the condition laid by the owner. The rest of the story revolves around how they manage to get their wives and tackle issues that follow.

Paying Guest Review

For a director who has directed a number of theatre plays, one would think handling a comical shouldn’t be much of a problem. But on debut, Paritosh Painter seems to have got it all wrong. If you expect Paying Guest to be a fun filled ride with rib tickling sequences; you will be highly disappointed. The poor writing lets the movie down and makes it a pain to sit through after the initial sequences.

Paying Guests begins well, the first few reels are funny but just when your expectations, on actually enjoying a movie at a big screen after a real long time, rise; the movie dips to an all time low. The comedy looks forced as the director and actor struggle to make you laugh. The dialogues are lame and so is the music score by Sajid-Wajid.

When it comes to performances, the leading ladies are just pure eye candies and have nothing much to do. However Celina Jaitley and Neha Dhupia have more screen time. Amongst the rest, Shreyas Talpade stands out with his perfect comic timing. Javed Jaffery is equally competent and manages to make you laugh. Ashish Chowdhary and Vastal Seth are good. Chunkey Pandey and Inder Kumar are wasted.

Overall, Paying Guest charges you for boredom. Yet another movie this year, that deserves a skip. All hopes on Yashraj Films’ New York now, the movie releases next week!

Source

Luck Story - Synopsis

2009-07-04T23:37:00.000-07:00

Studio 18, the Worldwide Distributor’s of Soham Shah’s LUCK were kind enough to send us the story / synopsis of the upcoming film starring Imran Khan, Sanjay Dutt, Mithun Chakraborty, Ravi Kissen, Danny Denzongpa and not to forget Shruti Hassan daughter of the brilliant Kamal Hassan, who makes her big screen debut with LUCK.

A lot of hard work has gone into the making of the film, directed by the director of the Karan Johar produced Kaal, which didn’t click at the box-office way back in 2005.

Many death defying sequences for LUCK have been shot in Namibia, with Sanjay Dutt performing a blind folded action sequence with his hand’s tied to the back! Let’s just hope LUCK, is better than Imran and Sanju’s last film together - Kidnap.. which, by the way, was quite unLUCKy for all involved.

Brief story / synopsis of LUCK

What if you could borrow someone’s luck for a day? Wouldn’t the world go topsy-turvy?

Luck follows the tale of mafia kingpin Musa (Sanjay Dutt) who has one obsession; to revolutionize the betting industry. For him life is a gamble, and what better way to skew the odds than play with those with luck on their side!

Luck is a gripping saga with different characters from different parts of the world, each with Lady Luck in their favour. With millions at stake, how far will each of them go in courting danger and deceit?

Source

Can Kambakht Ishq beat Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi?

2009-07-04T23:36:00.001-07:00

The word of mouth isn’t too great, the critics have thrashed it, yet Kambakht Ishq has witnessed a historic opening at the box-office.

And the only man solely responsible for the historic opening is, Akshay Kumar. You cannot deny that. If there were any doubts about Akshay’s star power, its been cleared now. What’s surprising is, even though his last few films were terribly poor and low on quality, the audience continue to support his movies and watch him on screen. Star power at its very best!!

Now, with Kambakht Ishq having won the initial battle, which not many expected it to, can it beat the two biggies of last year; Shahrukh Khan’s Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi and Aamir Khan’s Ghajini?

Beating Ghajini looks unlikely, but the 85 crore odd all India record of SRK’s Rab Ne.. looks well within reach, what with just the first day collections of Kambakht Ishq almost touching 9 crores!

So if KI doesn’t crash on Monday and does well over the next weekend, it could well be Akshay Kumar’s biggest hit ever.

Source

Kambakht Ishq Box office opening

2009-07-04T10:19:00.000-07:00

Akshay Kumar’s Kambakht Ishq has opened to a huge response at the box office and proves yet again that he is one of the most bankable stars in the industry. But a superstar can only gurantee a huge opening, the rest depends on how good / bad the movie is…

Ideally, a Great opening + Good Reviews + Strong word-of-mouth = Sure shot Blockbuster

But the same cannot be said about Kambakht Ishq as although it has opened to 100% collections at preview shows across the country, the critics have slammed the movie and the word-of-mouth is poor.

The advance booking is as good as Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi but the Akshay Kumar film hasn’t managed to surpass the earth shattering response that Aamir Khan’s Ghajini received in the last week of 2008. So with good advance booking, it remains to be seen if the available seats for the weekend will be sold out. If it does, Kambakht Ishq could well be the second hit of 2009.

Update: The trade expects the film to crash on Monday, but can the collections sustain over the weekend is something that remains to be seen. The word-of-mouth from people who have watched the first day first show is extremely poor.

Source

Evaraina Eppudaina Review

2009-07-04T04:42:00.002-07:00

Director: Marthand K Shankar

Producers: M Saravanan, M S Guhan, Aparna Guhan, Aruna Guhan

Music: Mani Sharma

Cinematography: Venugopalan

Editing: Marthand K Venkatesh

Cast: Varun Sandesh, Vimala Raman, Giri Babu, Reshmi, Rahul, Anu Haasan, Ali, Venu Madhav, Rama Prabha, Kota, Surekha Vani, Brahmanandam (guest appearance) etc

Story: Venkat (Varun Sandesh) is a happy go lucky youngster full of pranks. He blackmails couples and makes money. During one such incident he sees Madhumita(Vimala Raman) and falls in love at first sight. His Grandmother(Telangana Shakuntala) and heroines Grandmother(Rama Prabha) gets admitted in side by side beds in hospital. Venkat makes full use of this oppurtunity to get close to Madhumita and her family with a string of encounters where he uses his street smartness to his advantage and gains mileage.

But in his attempt to suceed in love, Venkat mistakenly spoils the engagement of Madhumita's sister Bhargavi (Rashmi) and Raju(Rahul). Will Venkat be able to succeed in love? What will happen to Bhargavi and Raju etc forms the rest of the story.

Artistes Performance: Varun Sandesh carried the movie on his shoulders. Almost every scene in the movie has him. He acted with ease in romantic and comedy scenes. The action scenes looks a bit unrealistic though given his fragile body.

Vimala Raman looked important scences which required her to look good like the introduction scene. Rahul and Reshmi did well as enstrangled lovers. All the other roles were basically fodder for Varun Sandesh to do his pranks. Ali and Venu Gopal were apt though their comedy went overboard at times. Rama Prabha and Giri Babu got meaty roles.

Anu Hassan did a movie after a long time as hero's sister-in-law. But the telugu audiences are not much aware of her. Surekha Vani, Kota Srinivas, Shankuntala did regular roles. Bramhanandam a guest role

Technical Details: Director Marthand K.Shankar got a lot of freshness into the movie. Though the storyline is routine, the scenes aren't. The comedy punchlines were also unique in this film. Apart from a bit of lagging in the second half he has keep the audience in grip.

Music by Mani Sharma was adequate with 'Vanemo Thadisi' sung by Varun Sandesh being the main saviour. The film runs on tight screenplay. Cinematography was good and the production values are upto the AVM standards.

Verdict: Though the film doesnt have nothing offer script wise, it will definitely attract the youth audiences. It is also a major plus for Varun Sandesh who was there in almost every scene of the film. 'Evaraina Eppudaina' is an above-average film.

PRAYANAM MOVIE REVIEW

2009-07-04T04:42:00.001-07:00

As Chandrasekhar Yeleti,the director promises , it a simple yet "sample" love story..the characterization is the hero of the movie..nothing much to expect sit back grab a pop corn n enjoy the movie..the comedy was dealt very smoothly,no hustle n bustle yet clean comedy sequences esp the "story" of "TIGER MAN"....forget the daily hustle bustle and watch ..and except for few loose ends to the free flowing thin story line..but the cream always floats on top... and refreshly different genre movie for telugu audience...i definetly recommend it....3.5/5

Magadheera - Trailer

2009-07-04T04:41:00.000-07:00

Click here

His 1st love called him.....Oy...!!!-Review by Jeevi

2009-07-04T04:40:00.002-07:00

Credits

Jeevi rating: 3/5-----My Rating:-4/5

Punchline: Tragic 'love story'

Genre: Romance

Type: Straight

Banner: Universal Media

Cast: Siddharth, Shamili, Krishnudu, Napoleon, Ali, Master Bharat, Tanikella Bharani, Pradeep Rawat, Surekha Vani

Music: Yuvan Shankar Raja

Dialogues: Rajasimha

Cinematography: Vijay K Chakravarthy

Editing: Marthand K Venkatesh

Art: Rajeevan

Story - screenplay - direction: Anand Ranga

Producer: DVV Danayya

Release date: 3 July 2009

Review

Story

Uday (Siddharth) is a rich and spoilt brat who believes in short term pleasures. Sandhya (Shamili) is a loner who lives on her own. She is a responsible girl with long term plans and strict principles. Uday falls in love with Sandhya at the very first sight. And she joins her place as a paying guest. When everything is going well, Uday comes to know that Sandhya is suffering from cancer and her days are numbered. But Sandhya is not aware of it. The rest of the story is all about how Uday makes Sandhya realise all her unfulfilled wishes.

Artists Performance

Siddharth is excellent as Uday. His costumes and goggles are very nice. He made sure that he wore goggles for 80% of his screen appearance (including songs). His dances in songs are energetic. Shamili is pretty with acting, though her looks are strictly average. They should have dark circles around eyes with good make-up. It may be a sheer coincidence for Shamili to again act as a patient in her debut film as a heroine. She had earlier donned the role of a mentally challenged, ill girl when she was just three old in Maniratnam's blockbuster Anjali and won the national award. Krishnudu is good. Sunil is not good in first half, but is nice in the second half. One doesn’t understand why they cast Napoleon for that role. Pradeep Rawat did his Chatrapati role in this movie. Surekha Vani got a nice role in this movie. Radha Kumari is hilarious in an episode with Ravi Kondala Rao. The comedy involving Ali and Master Bharat is completely irritating.

Technical departments

Story:

We should appreciate Anand Ranga to letting out the references for this movie right in the beginning. This film is inspired by Erich Segal’s novel ‘Love Story’ which was made into a classic ‘Love Story’ (Jeevi Review). Johnny by Pawan Kalyan is also inspired by the same movie. However, there is no father/son conflict in this movie. We have another film titled ‘Amruta Varshini’ (Telugu dubbed version of Kannada blockbuster Amruthadhare) that speaks about husband fulfilling the wishes of wife before she dies. Films like Bucket List (jeevi review) and Sweet November also sports the similar themes.

Screenplay - Direction:

The first half of the movie is dedicated for introducing the characteristics of the two main leads and the way they fall in love. The illness of heroine is revealed to hero much before the interval. The entire second half is dedicated to the boy fulfilling the wishes of the girl. The director succeeded in establishing the characters well and knit a proper and sensible love between them. He could deal with sensible humour well. But he fails when it comes to the comedy meant for front benchers (Sunil, Ali and Bharat). Screenplay of the movie is adequate. A film of this type if the tragic part of the movie is narrated in a heart-touching way. But you don’t feel for the characters by the time movie ends. Director could have made to genuinely heart touching with a better handling of second half. However, there are three things i liked in this movie

1. The 12th birthday gift (girl’s version and boy’s version)
2. Getting the Pradeep Rawat’s character out of Chatrapati film to continue it in this movie. It is very creative and of Woody Allen style.
3. Radha Kumari and Ravi Kondala Rao’s train episode.

Other departments:

Music by Yuvan Shankar Raja is superb. The picturization of songs is also good. Cinematography by Vijay Chakravarthy is another asset. Locations are very good. The vast geographies of Bihar, Kolkota are Varanasi are explored well. The house set erected in Rushi Valley, Vizag is of class taste. The color grading and postproduction activities are done with proper care. Editing is fine. Dialogues are neat. Production values by Universal Media are grand.

Analysis:

First half of the movie is decent. Second half is lengthy and is dragging at times. The climax is predictable and is not heart-touching. The plus points of the movie are Siddharth, music and cinematography. One should have guts to make such a film in Telugu where heroine dies at the end. These kinds of endings carry enormous risk quotient. I wish that the director could’ve made the climax in more effective way. We have to wait and see how it performs at box office.

Oy - Movie Review

2009-07-04T04:40:00.001-07:00

Film: OY
Cast: Siddardh, Shamili, and others
Dialogues: Rajasinha
Music: Yuvan Shankar Raja
Cinematography: Vijay K Chakravarthy
Editing: Marthand K Venaktesh
Art: Rajeevan
Produced by: Danaiah DVV
Banner: Universal Media
Story, screenplay and directed by: Anand Ranga
Release Date: July 3, 2009
CBFC Rating: U

What’s it about!

Uday, a young rich kid, who believes in the adage of life is short and live it to the fullest. He falls in love with a docile girl Sandhya (Shamili) at a first sight when he catches her in writing dairy at a pub wearing chudidar. She lives alone at a beachside house, running a nursery. She is very traditional girl with her own ideals. He enters in her house as P.G to make her fall in love. On her birthday, he expresses his love and presents 12 beautiful birthday gifts. On the same day it is revealed that she is suffering from a terminal disease. The rest of the movie is how he makes her life beautiful before she dies.

Analysis

First things first, OY is a love story with mushy scenes, mellifluous songs, great visuals, believable characters, and above all heart touching climax. It is well-made romantic drama with a tragic end. Although the film is copied from Korean film, A Millionaire's First Love (2006), it is well structured in the first half. Only in the later part of the movie it drags on. Hero and heroine embarking on journey and the subsequent scenes are not etched very well. But the climax is makes you cry. Debutant director Anand Ranga has tried to work on the chemistry between lead pair and sentiment. If you are romantic and love sentiment, you may like this mushy movie but others it is just okay one.

Performances

Shedding the baggage of ‘family-drama’s, Siddardh comes to romance heroine as in other love stories and as always he does it with ease. After NVNV, this is pure love story for him. Shamili of Anjali fame is made debut as heroine with this movie. She oozes the innocence that is required for her character and her lively nature is belieble. When you see her character, you would not think that she is not that conventially good-looking. Shamili’s performance brings beliebality to the film. She may not suit for glam roles in conventional setup but she is suited to this character. Napeolean has meaty role and he gives matured performance. Amongh others, Sunil, Surekha Vani and Krishnudu have better roles.

Strength of the movie lies in technical aspects. Cinematography by Vijay Chakravarthy is topnotch. He has shot Vizag so beautifully by adding props in the frame. Good artwork also added to the great visuals. Yuvan Shankar Raja’s music carries the mood of the movie - it is peppy at the same time very melodious. Editing is neat but second half should have been crispier. Production values by DVV Danayya are good.

Debutant director Anand Ranga has shown his talent in handling the first half very well and bringing out neat performances. But he is letdown by his own writing in the second half. The entire journey of hero-heroine process lacks the punch. The tricky part is holding audience’s interest even after revealing that heroine is going to die in the end. That is the big success by director.

Bottom-line!

OY is very mushy at times but the beauty of the film lies in heart-touching moments. First half, good performances and climax are its strength, while dragging second half and dull dialogues mar the movie. On the whole it is okay.

Sourced from:

Basic plot is taken from A Millionaire's First Love (2006) but has influences of Hollywood film Love Story (1971) and Geetanjali (1989) of Telugu.

Rating: 3/5

Aakasamantha review

2009-07-04T04:39:00.000-07:00

Genre: Family Drama
Type: Dubbed (Abhiyum Naanum - Tamil)
Banner: Sri Venkateswara Films

Cast: Prakash Raj, Trisha, Jagapati Babu, Ganesh Venkatraman, Aishwarya etc

Music: Vidya Sagar
Cinematography: Preetha
Editing: Marthand k Venkatesh
Story - screenplay - direction: Radha Mohan
Producer: Dil Raju
Release date: 27 March 2009

Artists Performance

Prakash Raj: Since entire film is told in a narrative pattern from Prakash Raj point of view, you will get to see Prakash Raj in 90% of the movie. He is an absolute delight to watch as a father. He balanced his comic timing with longing for his only daughter with unlimited ease. His body language during interview at school reminds us a bit of Mr. Bean’s.

Other actors: Three girls acted for the role of daughter at various growth levels. And all three girls look similar. The choice of these girls is perfect. Trisha and other two girls are cute. Trisha did extremely well in emotional scenes of second half. Ganesh Venkatraman is very good as Trisha’s beau. Aishwarya is demure as a lovable housewife. The guy who did the role of servant is commendable. Jagapati Babu did the role of a guy who listens to the memories of Prakash Raj in a park.

Story

Raghuram (Prakash Raj) owns a tea estate in Coimbatore. He married Anu (Aishwarya) – love of his life. Their daughter is Abhi. It is a lovable family with absolutely no problems. Raghuram is excessively fond of his cute daughter. He tries to guide her in every small step she takes by being with her. She finds her father to be overbearing as she grows up and she expects her father to let her go in order to find her ground in the real life. In the process she falls in love with a guy when she is sent to New Delhi to pursue MBA. The rest of the story is how Raghuram takes it when Abhi gets her beau to his house.

Technical departments

Story - screenplay - direction: The time-frame of the story is around 25 years. The life story of a just born girl is shown till she graduates and finds her fiancée. The entire story is narrated in spaced flashback format where Prakash Raj narrates the story of his daughter to a stranger in a park. You can see certain similarities to the ‘Father of Bride’ character (Nuvve Nuvve in Telugu) in the second half. It is a difficult task to narrate a single thread of relationship between a father and a daughter. Director Radha Mohan comes up with a convincing screenplay to pull it off. Radha Mohan excels in showing sentiment scenes and a light humor episodes (especially Prakash Raj preparing for his daughter’s pre-KG interview). However, the pace goes down in the second half of the film. And the characterization of Prakash Raj character gets little confusing in the end as he keeps dillydallying about his future son-in-law.

Other departments: Music of the film is average. Cinematography is excellent. The cinematographer captures the lush greenery around tea estates very well. Dialogues are sprinkled with humor and sentiment (Abburi Ravi seem to have penned few of the dialogues). Editing is adequate.

Analysis: First half of the film is entertaining. Second half is bit slow and becomes little repetitive towards the end. Akasamantha is all about letting one’s daughter go. It is about the mental turmoil and confusion an over-possessive father goes through whenever her daughter takes the first step towards a new direction. The plus points of the film are Prakash Raj performance, entertaining first half and noble intention of making a clean film. On the flip side, the second half becomes overbearing. Producer Dil Raju should be appreciated for betting his money on a subject that lacks regular commercial elements and screenplay payoffs. On a whole, Aakasamantha is a different film made on relationships and has ingredients that appeal to the family crowds in A centers.

Totally my rating for the movie is average i.e., 3/5

NEWYORK MOVIE REVIEW

2009-07-04T04:37:00.000-07:00

Movie Review: New York; Star Cast: John Abraham, Katrina Kaif, Neil Nitin Mukesh and Irrfan Khan; Director: Kabir Khan; Rating: ***1/2 - Is a must watch.

Omar (Neil) is picked up by the FBI and detained for arms found in his owned taxi. Basically it’s a well planned set up by FBI officer Roshan (Irrfan) and his boss to get Omar agreeing on to work as an undercover agent for them and infiltrate the family the life of Samir (John) and Maya (Katrina) who were Omar’s college friends 7-8 years back. Roshan suspects Samir of running a sleeper terrorism cell and he wants to nab him red handed. Omar is left with no option but to comply with Roshan’s orders but he agrees on one condition that the FBI won’t kill Samir if he agrees to surrender. years back when in college Omar, Maya and Samir were thick buddies and Omar silently loved Maya but when she expressed her love for Samir, Omar had gone away from them. What truth Omar uncovers when he meets Samir and Maya both now a married couple with a small kid Danielle and what it all leads to forms the rest of the film.

New York can easily be considered the best film to come out of the Yash Raj stable after Chak De India. Shot entirely in the US, the film not only is on par with the best of the Hollywood films made in this genre but is a completely different experience which the Bollywood audience is not used to. You are completely hooked from the first scene of the film when Neil is arrested by FBI and the interrogation that follows by Irrfan of Neil’s. The first half is extremely well narrated and keeps you constantly guessing as to what will happen next. The interval point is a shocker and you look forward to an exciting second half. But then the pace of the second half somehow doesn’t match up that of the first half and there are some predictable things in store. But nonetheless it is packed with some really great moments. The whole frisking episode of Katrina Kaif by a cop on the road late at night and the sequences that follow it linger on your mind for long. The climax though a bit word heavy is superbly shot as well. The torture scenes shown immediately post the interval send a shiver down your spine. Pritam’s music is easy on the ears and there are no lip sync songs to hamper the proceedings.

New York scores high in the acting department with each single actor delivering his/her best. John Abraham often termed as an expressionless actor has delivered his career’s finest performance. Katrina Kaif has finally got the meatiest role of her career and she has taken full advantage of it. She is very good in emotional scenes as well. Neil in a difficult part shines. Irrfan Khan never disappoints and here again he is in great form. His scenes with Neil and also his senior officer have turned out well.

New York takes up a topical theme and perfectly exposes the wily ways of the American FBI to which over hundreds of innocent Muslim people had fallen prey to post 9/11. It is a must watch for many reasons so just don’t miss it.

RATING : ***1/2

Movie Review :Kambakht ishq

2009-07-04T04:36:00.000-07:00

Bizarre has a new meaning and it's called KAMBAKKHT ISHQ.

Of late, Akshay Kumar has earned the reputation of making you laugh in film after film. You expect KAMBAKKHT ISHQ, his new outing, to transport you to ha-ha-land, given the smart-n-chic promos of the film.

KAMBAKKHT ISHQ belongs to the same family of films which have wooed the masses, such as MUJHSE SHAADI KAROGI, WELCOME, SINGH IS KINNG and GOLMAAL RETURNS. The prime motive is to entertain you for the next 2 hours, logic be damned.
Yet, KAMBAKKHT ISHQ is different because it depicts the battle of the sexes, a theme that's rarely depicted on the Hindi screen. The lingo is poles apart, so is the attitude. In fact, this is a modern take on relationships, with the two hours divided between laughter and emotions, frivolous and reality.

Let's get this straight. KAMBAKKHT ISHQ works in most parts thanks to the kind of star power and energy that the two actors pack in -- Akshay Kumar and Kareena Kapoor. It would've been difficult to hold the film from falling apart had the two actors not been competent enough to carry off their respective parts. Also, the presence of Hollywood stars -- Sylvester Stallone, Brandon Routh and Denise Richards -- the first on the Hindi screen, is an added bonus. 1 pe 2 ka offer; Bollywood stars ke saath Hollywood free!

The focus is on the entertainment quotient. There are moments when you laugh so uncontrollably that it gets embarrassing and there are times when you continue smiling, even during the most ordinary scenes.

But KAMBAKKHT ISHQ dips in its second hour because you expect it to be as frivolous as the first hour, but it changes tracks and gets emotional. Things would've gone wrong had the end stumbled and fumbled, but it doesn't. The finale, in fact, takes the film back to the level that one expects from a film of this magnitude.

To sum up, KAMBAKKHT ISHQ offers you value for time and also, value for money. It offers loads of entertainment in those 2 + hours, loads of glamour in those 130 odd minutes, from start to end. Sure, there are blemishes, but they're trivial when you look at the larger picture.

KAMBAKKHT ISHQ explores the relationship between two individuals who are as different as chalk and cheese. Viraj [Akshay Kumar] is a stuntman in Hollywood, who lives by the mantra 'women are only good for two things'. Simrita [Kareena Kapoor] is a firebrand who is more than able to stare down the most arrogant male with her caustic wit and sardonic tongue.

So what happens when the two people who hate each other the most meet at Simrita's best friend Kamini's [Amrita Arora] and Viraj's brother Lucky's [Aftab Shivdasani] wedding? A wedding that both Viraj and Simrita are violently opposed to and desperate to stop. Sparks fly... the battle of the sexes in on.

Director Sabbir Khan's motive is simple: Entertain for the next 2 hours. The entire first hour moves at a lightening speed, making you enjoy the war of words between Akshay and Kareena at regular intervals.

The first half abounds in terrific moments, but I'd like to single out at least three...

One, the church wedding of Aftab and Amrita. When the battle lines are drawn.

Two, the sequence at the operation table, when Akshay spots Kareena.

Three, the interval point. The pendant connection. Howlarious sequences all!

The post-interval starts with a bang, with Akshay hearing the 'Om Mangalam' chant just about everywhere -- while sleeping, in the shower, in the rest room, even at an award function. The award function sequence is a double whammy. You get to watch Stallone and also the scene is superbly structured, executed and enacted.

Things are smooth sailing till the emotional angle comes up. The narrative dips in those 20 odd minutes. The mood suddenly shifts from laughter to sadness. The makers may argue that a twist in the tale is justified from the writing point of view, since the emotional track is vital for any love story, but the fact remains that one does miss the entertainment quotient here. In fact, the dip in the second hour erodes, to a large extent, the impression that the first half had built so magnificently.

Director Sabbir Khan picks up a theme that may catch you by complete surprise, but marinates it in entertainment, garnishes it well and presents it like never before. The review would be incomplete if we failed to highlight the grandiose look and the lavish production values thanks to the no-holds-barred expenses by producer Sajid Nadiadwala. Each frame looks ostentatious and glitzy.

Music is up to the mark, with three interesting tracks -- 'Om Mangalam' [RDB], 'Lakh Lakh' and 'Bebo' [Anu Malik]. Cinematography [Vikas Sivaraman] is magnificent, with the DoP doing complete justice to the production values.

KAMBAKKHT ISHQ belongs to both, Akshay and Kareena. Akshay is dynamic this time. He received a lot of flak for CHANDNI CHOWK TO CHINA and there was this nagging feeling that the negativity would spill over to KAMBAKKHT ISHQ. But Akshay is in terrific form here and delivers, without a shred of doubt, a bravura performance. If you loved him in NAMASTEY LONDON and SINGH IS KINNG, you'd fall in love with Akki and his comic timing all over again this time.

Kareena left an indelible impression in JAB WE MET and creates a similar impact, albeit in a different role. Her role has shades of 'Poo' in K3G, but the glam looks combined with that rare confidence takes this performance to dizzy heights. Clearly, Kareena is miles ahead of her contemporaries as far as talent goes and this film proves it yet again.

Aftab and Amrita are perfect for their parts. Vindu Singh supports well. Javed Jaffrey doesn't make a mark because the role has no connection with the main plot. Kirron Kher is getting typecast. Boman Irani is hilarious in that lone sequence. Stallone, Brandon Routh and Denise Richards are well integrated in the narrative.

On the whole, KAMBAKKHT ISHQ will strike a chord with the youth and those who relish zany and madcap entertainers. The first half is tremendous, while the second half takes a dip, with the film picking up towards the climax. At the box-office, the film will see an earth-shattering opening weekend and a historic Week 1. It remains to be seen how this film fares in its second weekend/week, given the massive number of screens it has opened globally [2,000 +]. However, the timing is most appropriate [the viewer is thirsting for a biggie] and the hype is tremendous, which should prove very advantageous for the film.

RATING - ***1/2

Akshay Kumar no longer superstitious

2009-06-24T01:18:00.000-07:00

Bollywood is not short of folks who are superstitious and Akshay Kumar is one of them. But the superstar is now shedding his superstition. At least that’s what it seems.

On every movie release of his, Akshay had an invariable habit of flying out of the country. Not only that, he even used to miss the movie’s premiere shows. Doing that, he believed, brought him luck at the box-office. But now, he’s set to break this ritual.

He will be in India for the release of his movie Kambakkht Ishq . According to sources, Akshay is holidaying with his family in US and was supposed to return on July 4, a day after the release of ‘Kambakkht Ishq’. But now, the buzz is that the star will be in Mumbai on June 30.

The actor is making an exception this time for the movie which is his biggest release ever. Along with producer Sajid Nadiadwala , Akshay has grand promotional plans for the days leading up to the film’s release. The actor has already been giving interviews in the US.

In fact, a visit by Hollywood star Sylvester Stallone is also in the pipeline as a publicity gimmick.

The movie’s lead actress Kareena Kapoor who is currently shooting in Ladakh for 3 Idiots will also be back in Mumbai for the movie’s release, that is on 3rd July.

Source

Was Hrithik a better choice as Don?

2009-06-19T08:24:00.001-07:00

The rumour that Hrithik ‘could’ play the role of Vijay Dinanath Chauhan in the remake of Agneepath, is one hot topic of discussion in most Bollywood blogs and forums.

Many seem to believe Ajay Devgan is the perfect choice and Hrithik may not be able to do justice to the legendary role.

Quite interesting was one common point that most stressed on, “Farhan Akhtar missed a trick with his remake of Don, Hrithik was just about perfect for the role” The same role that eventually went to Shahrukh and the actor was slammed by the critics for his performance.

Source

Hollywood writer for Shahrukh Khan’s Ra 1

2009-06-19T08:23:00.002-07:00

Shahrukh Khan has roped in a Hollywood writer to script his upcoming superhero film, to be directed by Anubhav Sinha, who has previously directed movies like Tum Bin, Dus and Cash.

SRK has signed on David Benullo, who has previously scripted Hollywood films like ‘Cupid and Shadow Man’ and ‘Hallowed Ground’.

Why has SRK gone Hollywood? Does Bollywood lack quality writers? Well according to a source close to SRK’s Red Chillies Entertainment, Ra 1 isn’t a typical Bollywood masala entertainer and the film needs to be treated differently. Loads of special effects will be used, along with lots of action sequences. SRK wanted someone who could do justice to their initial idea, hence Hollywood writer David Benullo was approached. The news was confirmed by director Anubhav Sinha.

Shooting for RA 1 will begin soon after Karan Johar wraps up My Name Is Khan, which is about 80% complete.

The superhero film will release next year.

Source

Partner 2 without Katrina Kaif and Lara Dutta

2009-06-19T08:23:00.001-07:00

After the huge success of the ‘Hitch’ remake, Partner in 2006, the makers are all set to continue the popular series with Partner 2! Govinda and Salman Khan will return to the big screen in the movie to be directed by David Dhawan, who also directed Partner 1.

But unfortunately for Katrina fans, the pretty leading lady will not be a part of the sequel. Nor will Lara Dutta who played Salman Khan’s love interest in the first part.

According to sources, the makers are looking to cast 2 new leading ladies as Partner 2 isn’t a continuation from the first part, instead a new chapter in the lives of Salman Khan and Govinda. Much similar to Rajkumar Hirani’s Munnabhai Series.

The search for two new girls for the glamorous roles is on and they should be finalized soon. The shooting for Partner 2 begins later this year.

The movie is quite obviously an out-an-out comedy flick which will be produced by Salman’s brother Sohail Khan and should release late 2010.

Source

Hrithik Roshan as Vijay Dinanath Chauhan in Agneepath remake?

2009-06-19T08:22:00.000-07:00

According to Mumbai Mirror, a local daily, Hrithik Roshan could soon be seen portraying the legendary role of Vijay Dinanth Chauhan in the remake of the 1990 disaster Agneepath.

Although the film, produced by Yash Johar’s Dharma Productions, failed at the box-office when it released, Amitabh Bachchan won a National Award for his performance. Now, according to reliable sources Karan Johar is very keen to remake the film and wants none other than Hrithik Roshan in the lead as Karan feels he is just about perfect for the role.

Karan Malhotra, one of Karan Johar’s assistants will be directing the film.

If Hrithik does decide to do the film, the comparisons to the legendary Bachchan will be inevitable. Shahrukh Khan wasn’t universally accepted as the Don, will Hrithik be accepted as Vijay Dinanath Chauhan? Is Abhishek Bachchan a better choice?

Source

Hrithik to be immortalized at Madame Tussauds

2009-06-19T08:21:00.002-07:00

Last year, there were rumours that Hrithik could be immortalized at the Madame Tussauds, but soon it turned out that the news was nothing more than a rumour.

Well, it seems almost official now. Hrithik Roshan will finally be seen by millions at the Madame Tussauds in London. The actor received a text message during the IIFA Awards ceremony from the museum authorities, who will soon make it official.

According to sources Hrithik is quite elated by the news “He was smiling ever since he got the message. Suzzane (his wife) was delighted and so were his friends, who insisted he make the news public at the IIFA fashion show. But he refused. While he looked elated, he wanted an official confirmation first.”

Actor Zayed Khan and his wife, who were present with the actor when he received the message also congratulated him.

Hrithik will be the 5th actor from Bollywood at the Madame Tussauds after Amitabh Bachchan, Shahrukh Khan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Salman Khan!

SOurce

End of Shiney Ahuja?

2009-06-19T08:21:00.001-07:00

Shiney Ahuja who made his debut in the brilliant Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi (2003) and followed it up with the c-grade softcore flick ‘Sins’ in 2005, is in deep deep trouble.

The latest is that, medical reports have confirmed the sexual assault by the actor on his 18 year old maid servant “We have received the medical report of the victim and it has corroborated (with) what the victim has alleged against the actor in the FIR. The actor’s house has been sealed after people from the forensic department visited his residence to obtain more evidence.” said Miket Kaushik, Deputy Commissioner of Police.

Yesterday, Ahuja had confessed to having consensual sex but completely denied the rape. There are also doubts over the girl’s actual age, as even consensual sex with an underaged girl is an offense.

With TV channels predicting a lifetime imprisonment for the Gangster actor, is this realy the end of Shiney Ahuja?

Source

Is Shiney Ahuja really a rapist?

2009-06-19T08:19:00.000-07:00

Last night, Shiney Ahuja was accused of raping his maid servant and the actor who is renowned for his role in Gangster, quite shockingly confessed having sex with his maid, but the actor denied the rape charges.

When questioned about the maid by the Mumbai police, Shiney revealed the details “Yes, she is my maid from one and a half months. My earlier maid Sangeeta got her here temporarily. My cook Mohan and his wife know about this.”

When asked about the rape charges, Shiney said “No, I didn’t (rape her). I am being framed. We had sex, but it was consensual”

Consensual sex isn’t a crime, is Shiney actually being framed? Its so hard to believe, a non-controversial actor like Shiney involved in a rape! Shocking!

Click here to comment

Katrina bags it once again!

2009-06-09T06:56:00.000-07:00

Whether it may be her passionate romance with B-town baddie Salman or her Box office hits, gorgeous belle KK is one such dame who is riding high on the wave of limelight.Be it her super-sex quotient or oomph factor, Katrina has knocked out reigning queens Kareena, Priyanka, Deepika & Bipasha time and again.

Katrina Kaif has reportedly once again been voted as India's Sexiest Woman by an international men's magazine. Last year too, the dainty beauty shone at the pinnacle. This time too though all these actresses strut their stuff in bikinis in their flicks, Katrina still tops the popularity charts.

But look at the modesty of the graceful actress who prefers to be called'pretty' than be tagged 'sexy'.Whether it's her cosmopolitan looks or the Sallu magic...whatever it is,we let her bask in this incandescent glory!

Wнaт do ѕтarѕ wanт ғor тнιѕ ♥Valenтιne-Day♥

2009-02-14T02:12:00.000-08:00

Bipasha Basu

"None. I'm happy and contented."

Priyanka Chopra

"I don't believe you need a reason or a particular day to say you love someone. When you're in love every day is special."
Pooja Bedi

"It's a day for lovers, not about being with loved ones, friends and relative. Unless you want to comfort yourself about the absence of that someone special in your life. What do I want? Waiting for my Prince Charming to come."
Koena Mitra

"My Valentine desire would be to finally meet Mr Right. But if that's not possible this Valentine then fine. Just get me a man who's hot-looking and a great conversationalist. Then even a Mr Wrong will do."
Celina Jaitley

"Desire: My Valentine wish is to find true love."
Esha Deol

"I want to give lots of love to all those who've given me love. Lots of love to all my ex-es too! Ha ha. May God keep me single for as long as possible because I love my freedom."
Farhan Akhtar

"Want to see Mumbayites back to the spirit of the city."
Muzamil Ibrahim

"It's my mother's birthday on Valentine's Day so there'll definitely be lots of celebration. Want good health and happiness for all those who love me. And I want to get together with the one I want to be with."
Sammir Dattani

"Shooting in Hyderabad but thinking of someone very special in Mumbai."
Amrita Arora

"Will be shooting on Valentine's. Wish to have my loved one with me forever."
Kushal Punjabi

"Besides shooting I'll be doing what all other lovers do on Valentine's Day. Exchanging cards and listening to romantic songs. What did you think? From all the girls in my life that one special person will emerge on this day. I promise I'll give up doing naughty like exchanging cards things after that."
Tanushree Dutta

"I wish I'd be in Paris for Valentine's Day."
Malaika Arora

"I want to spend the day with all my loved ones. I don't anyone to be alone on Valentine's Day."
Amrita Rao

"I wish all those people in love be so forever. And those who don't, may they please find love this Valentine's Day."

54th FILMFARE AWARDS NOMINATIONS

2009-02-14T01:19:00.000-08:00

Ram Leela sequence is an integral part of Delhi-6

2009-02-14T01:17:00.000-08:00

From the promos of Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra's forthcoming film Delhi 6, one can't help but notice the brilliant visuals of the 'Ram Leela' sequence.

For the uninitiated, Ram Leela is an age-old theatrical play that starts on first day of Durga puja and ends on Dussehra with the 'killing of Raavan'.

In Delhi 6, Abhishek Bachchan's character is traveling to India for the first time and his grandmother takes him to watch the Ram Leela to familiarize him with his culture.

When Rakeysh Mehra wanted to showcase a few scenes of the popular Ram Leela in the narrative of Delhi 6, he started his hunt for a Ram Leela group. To Rakeysh Mehra's surprise there were no groups that were actually carrying the art of Ram Leela any more.

In his quest for finding some actors to stage the Ram Leela, Rakeysh found his 'Ram' in Sagar University, 'Sita' in Allahabad, 'Laxman' in Ujjain and 'Hanuman' in Varanasi. All of them then got together and rehearsed for almost 3 months to put up jhalkis of Ram Leela.

Talking about the Ram Leela shooting experience, Rakeysh says, "Ram Leela is an important part of our narrative and we wanted to show particular jhalkis that Abhishek Bachchan is surprised to see. But when we set out to find these 'Ram Leela' groups we realized how difficult it was to find a group. Only in the heartland of India did we find some actors familiar with the age-old play ".

Must say that it's sad that Ram Leela as an art is almost breathing its last in our country.

I am A GOOD HUSBAND : Abhishek

2009-02-14T01:15:00.000-08:00

Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Bachchan is an eye catching couple and they are leading a blissful life together. Undoubtedly, Abhi is a good and loving husband who understands his wife better and always appreciates her achievement. They compliment each other?s work and this what makes their relationship more beautiful and peaceful. Abhishek claims that he is a very good husband. He states, "I don?t think I have changed after marriage. I am still the same guy I used to be. I guess I am a good husband. Aishwarya is extremely down-to-earth. She is very humane."

Speaking about Delhi 6 and working with Sonam and Rakesh Omprakash, he says, "I am nervous about Delhi 6. I always get nervous on Fridays when my film releases. We put in so much hard work for a film, that?s why Fridays make me so nervous. But Delhi 6 is a good film and made very well. It is a very realistic film and its music is really appealing. As an actor I hope to meet the expectations of people. Rakeysh Mehra and I had wanted to work with each other for very long. He met every expectation of mine. It was wonderful working with him. Sonam (Kapoor) is a wonderful person and a very promising actress. It was a pleasure having her on the sets. She is really hardworking."

In free time, Abhi likes listening to music, watching movies and reading autobiographies. His favorite autobiography is Marlon Brando?s Songs My Mother Taught Me. He is eagerly looking forward to Delhi 6 as its success will turn around his career and establish him as a hit solo actor.

I LOVED Asin's role in Ghajini: Sonam Kapoor

2009-02-14T01:11:00.000-08:00

Rajeev Masand speaks to Sonam Kapoor about her flop debut Saawariya and her upcoming flick Delhi 6.

Rajeev Masand: It's going to be 16 months between Saawariya and Delhi 6.

Sonam Kapoor: When you say 16 months, it sounds like such a long time. It's one year and four months.

Rajeev Masand: Is it difficult to find work after a flop debut or were you waiting for the right film to come along?

Sonam Kapoor: Actually I signed Delhi 6 two months before Saawariya came out. Obviously I have had a lot of offers but I was doing Delhi 6 at the time and I didn't have time. And I do one film at a time, I have learnt that from my dad. I want to concentrate and not dilute myself.I don't want to change myself around for each film. Like if you see Saawariya and if you see Delhi 6, they are diametrically opposite characters. You need that space and time to change yourself and get into that whole thing. When you come out of it also, I think you need one or two months to start a new project. I don't know how other people do it. I have no idea how they do it, but I honestly cannot do it. I need to do one thing at a time.

Rajeev Masand: Both Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra are very fiercely protective of their vision and they are both very individualistic filmmakers in terms of the movies that they make. What were the difference in their working styles?

Sonam Kapoor: With Mr Bhansali, he needs everything to be his visual. Like even small things like the hair has to be exactly how he imagined and the lamp has to be placed exactly where he wants it. Everything is very constructed and choreographed - though that has it's own beauty. It's completely his vision. With Rakeysh everything is organic. There is a story and he doesn't let you go out of the story, but at the same time, you are doing your own thing. In the first two weeks, I was a little rattled when I was getting into shooting, but then I spoke to Mr Mehra and he said that, 'Listen, my style is that everything is organic, everything has to be what you feel. You do your job. And I will just blow the whistle if I feel you are going beyond the boundaries of what the character is. If you are yourself and the character, that's more than enough'.

So I think the difference is that Mr Bhansali is more like an oil painting and Mr Mehra is more like a water painting - everything is very improvised and organic, even though there is a bound script in both the sets.

Rajeev Masand: A lot of your comfort of working with Ranbir Kapoor in Saawariya came from the fact that you knew each other as children and that you had worked as assistant directors on Black with Sanjay Leela Bhansali. With Abhishek Bachchan, you did not have that history. Did that hence take a little longer establishing a rapport, camaraderie and a comfort level?

Sonam Kapoor: No see, with Ranbir, it was fortunate that we were playing friends in Saawariya. It was like this instant connection that happens between people and it was more like a friendship. People obviously commented a lot about chemistry and all that but it's worked for Saawariya. With Delhi 6, it's different. I have met Abhishek a lot socially but in the film, it's like we get to know each other through the film. So, it sort of worked for the film, so I am lucky. So it's been fun. And Abhishek is young so I can totally chill with him, hang out with him, discuss things with him. But at the same time he has done 35 films so he is experienced enough to advise me on certain things and help me out of certain tight spots.

Rajeev Masand: From whatever little we have seen of Delhi 6 in the promos, your character goes from a simple girl to a young, hip, trendy girl who switches her clothes and looks while she probably goes out to meet friends. Did that strike a chord?

Sonam Kapoor: I think all Indian girls have that. When you are at home, you try to be all sweet and nice in front of your parents so they don't fire the living daylights out of you and then you go clubbing or you want to go meet your friends and you are wearing a singlet underneath and you are dad's like you should wear a jacket over that or you will have boys eve-teasing you or something like that. So you wear it, but at the end of the day you think, 'who's going to look at me' and you just take off the jacket and go. That's what every girl does. So because I am playing a very normal, Delhi girl, it was just a part of her character - a small part of her character.

Rajeev Masand: What's the last film that you saw which made you go, 'I wish I was in this'?

Sonam Kapoor: That's really tough. I think it was Ghajini. I liked Asin's role a lot in it. I don't know if I would have suited the role but I would have loved to do the film. That was the one film. I liked her character. It was a fully commercial character but there were things for her to do. It was a good role.

Hurman will BOUNCE BACK with 'It's My Life

2009-02-14T01:06:00.000-08:00

Hurman S. Baweja's "Victory" may have fared poorly at the box office, but Annees Bazmi, the director of his next film "It's My Life", is unperturbed. He says the actor would come out trumps with the light-hearted romantic film, which is a remake of Telugu superhit "Bommarillu".

"Hurman is a hardworking boy and that is something we all would agree after both his films. They may not have worked, but in filmmaking there are so many factors that decide the fate of a movie at the box office. Hurman has done very well in 'It's My Life'. The audience will love his pairing with Genelia D' Souza," Bazmee told IANS.

Hurman's all three forthcoming projects are very high profile. While his immediate release is "It's My Life", it will be followed by Ashutosh Gowariker's "What's Your Rashee" where he is paired opposite Priyanka Chopra. His next would be a Sanjay Leela Bhansali project which is still untitled.

"It's My Life" is a critical project not only for Hurman, after a hat- trick of successes in the form of "Singh Is Kinng", "Welcome" and "No Entry", Bazmee too has to prove a point - that he can set the cash registers ringing even when it comes to romantic films.

"You are forgetting 'Pyaar To Hona Hi Tha'. It was a good success as well, but was there any comedy? It was a complete musical entertainer, something that I can vouch for 'It's My Life' as well. With the film, I am sure Hurman will bounce back."

Bazmee isn't too worried about recession either. According to him, it isn't really impacting the films being directed by him.

"The entire boom followed by burst was witnessed in last two-three years while I have been in the industry for 30 years. I think I can say that I have seen it all quite closely. This is why I have never been unreasonable when it comes to the budget of my films. It has always been set in a decent range; hence the price cut doesn't impact my films.

Kareena Kapoor wins India Today Women Award 2009

2009-02-13T08:36:00.000-08:00

Kareena Kapoor is on a real high. She is being showered with awards off late and the recent one being the prestigious India Today Women Award 2009 for her contribution to the world of art and cinema by none other than Erin Brokovich.

Kareena states that she always cherished the idea of becoming an actress. She further revealed, “I always wanted to be an actress since I was a little girl in my mother’s womb. The dreams resurfaced when I was became fourteen years old. I always told my mother that I wanted to act but then my mother always showed me the negative side of the industry. She often chided me saying that one shouldn’t go by the glitz and glamor of the industry. But then one fine day I woke up and said that I had finally decided that I was going to act. My mother then advised me first to lose weight and then watch a lot of movies. She said being a star is not easy. There are two sides to it. You earn lot praise but also face a lot of criticism and negativity in the industry. You will have to compromise a lot in life” reveals Kareena

“My elder sister Karishma became a star and she too said that the path to stardom is not easy. I will have to work really hard to achieve my goal and learn to face criticisms.” she further added.

Kareena said that she was very adamant and hell bent on becoming an actress. “I plunged myself into it and there’s no looking back. Yes there is a lot of compromise, negativity and criticisms but if you want to achieve something and follow your dreams you have to go through the grind only then will you reach your goal. I have done that and I am glad where I am today” concluded Kareena.

The PLOT of "Main Aur Mrs Khanna" REVEALED

2009-02-13T08:35:00.000-08:00

We have managed to bag exclusive information on the well guarded plotline of Salman Khan – Kareena Kapoor starrer Main Aur Mrs Khanna which is all set to be Salman’s next release.

A source from the film’s unit revealed, “Salman and Kareena play a rich married couple Mr. and Mrs. Khanna settled in Australia. Kareena is a housewife who yearns for more time from her forever busy businessman hubby Salman. But since he is incapable of doing that, she starts cheating on him with Sohail Khan and at a point even leaves his house. Govinda plays Salman’s best friend in the film. Seeing his best pal’s unhappy state, it is him who tries all the tricks to bring the estranged couple back and succeeds. Preity Zinta is playing a cameo role in the film as well and music director Bappi Lahiri too is there to provide the laughs playing a rich NRI tycoon. It is learnt that Kareena was specifically told by the makers to add on weight to her size zero body to look like a rich housewife.”

The film is directed by debutante Prem Soni and has shot across Australia. The film was earlier in the news for Shah Rukh Khan making a special appearance in it but after the infamous Salman-SRK fight these plans were dropped. The film is all set for June 12, 2009 release.

Shilpa to DONATE MONEY at EVERY SIX

2009-02-13T08:34:00.001-08:00

Shilpa Shetty is the mood for philanthropy. After adopting four villages through NDTV Greenathon, (see box) she has now decided to contribute money to these villages each time a Rajasthan Royals batsman hits a sixer.

A source close to Shilpa says, "Whenever a player of Rajasthan Royals (the team Raj Kundra and Shilpa Shetty have a 12 per cent stake in) hits a six, Shilpa will contribute Rs 6000 to one of these villages."

Initially, Shilpa wanted to donate the money to her charitable organisation, The Shilpa Shetty Foundation (SSF). Since the Lighting A Billion Lives project aims at solar-powering villages across the country, she decided to support that cause and give the money to the villages.

A friend of the actress reveals, "Shilpa has started SSF as she wants to make sure that the money raised for charity reaches out actually to the people concerned and is not misused. She intends to put whatever money she raises into this foundation.

Shilpa will also shoot pictures and videos of the progress made and put them up on her website. She wants to donate to her two pet causes the upliftment of children and their education. She feels God has given her so much she needs to do her bit towards charity."

Recently, Shilpa adopted four villages each costing Rs 3 lakh in support of TERI's Lighting a Billion Lives project that aims at solar powering villages across the country.

She admits, "The cause is really good. I couldn't believe that there are still villages that don't have electricity. This money will go to provide solar lamps on behalf of NDTV and us."

Shetty was among other donors for the channel's campaign, which include Shah Rukh Khan, Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Rampal, Vivek Oberoi and Preity Zinta, amongst others.

Rajasthan HC STOPS Salman Khan?s SHOOT at AMER FORT

2009-02-13T08:32:00.000-08:00

Jaipur: Shooting of Salman Khan' film Veer at historic Amer Fort here will be discontinued with the Rajasthan High Court today ordering the film unit to pack up its bags from the protected monuments where a wall collapsed during filming on Thursday.

While ordering the film unit to stop shooting, a Division Bench comprising Justice Ashok Parihar and Justice G S Sarraf also issued a notice to the state government to explain why strict norms related to "protected" historical monuments were not followed in the case.

"Money and greed, coupled with power create blindness, madness and the person becomes totally insane and insensitive. When the government and public authorities indulge in such practice, a great havoc is created resulting in chaos all around. The episode and mishap happened in Amer Palace, Jaipur yesterday is a glaring example of the same," the court said.

Besides, Bollywood star Salman Khan the film Veer also features state tourism minister Bina Kak.

The court took a strong view on yesterday's incident in which at least 15 onlookers, including two cameramen, were injured when a portion of wall at the historic Amer Fort collapsed during shooting of the film.

Shah Rukh's RESIDENCE ATTACKED

2009-02-13T08:31:00.000-08:00

Mumbai: Even as Irrfan Khan starrer Billu that has SRK in a cameo awaits release across theatres in India on Friday, an incident that alarmed many took place at Shah Rukh Khan's residence in Mumbai.

Two unidentified persons allegedly threw kerosene bottles at actor Shah Rukh Khan's bungalow 'Mannat' in suburban Bandra in the wee hours on Friday.

"Around 0230 hours, motorcycle-borne miscreants threw the bottles filled with kerosene and fled from the scene. The security men at the residence 'Mannat' chased the miscreants but in vain," Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Niket Kaushik told PTI.

When the incident occurred, Khan was not in the house and nobody has sustained any injuries, he said adding that a complaint has been registered and further investigation is on in the matter.

It may be important to remember that SRK's Billu, a film about an ordinary man's extraordinary adventure is set to release on the day.

Indian film body to hold meet on Bangladesh culture

2009-02-12T23:39:00.001-08:00

Dhaka, The Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) will for the first time organise screening and discussions on films and filmmakers from Bangladesh to mark Ekushey February (Feb 21), the day on which the movement for Bangladesh's cultural renaissance started.
Top Bangladeshi filmmakers Tanvir Mokammel, Abu Sayeed, Tareque and Catherine Masud will travel to Pune, the headquarters of the state-run FTII, to participate in the two-day interaction Feb 21-22, The Daily Star said Wednesday.

Mokammel's "Swapnobhumi" will be screened along with "Chitra Nadir Parey".

Abu Sayeed's "Nirontor", and Tareque and Catherine Masud's two films, "Matir Moina" and "Muktir Gaan" will also be screened.

This is the first time that FTII is focussing on films from Bangladesh and their directors.

While Bangladeshi film directors like Mokammel, the Masud couple and Abu Sayeed are familiar in Indian festival circuits, it is not often that one finds their works being shown in tandem. This lends the event in Pune a special significance.

FTII's then director Jagat Murari was a member of the delegation led by the late filmmaker B.R. Chopra when the first festival of Indian films was organised in Dhaka in 1974.

There was much collaboration after Bangladesh's independence, when Indian filmmaker Ritwik Ghatak made "Teetas Ekti Nodir Naam". India's Rajen Tarafdar was engaged in co-productions in Bangladesh.

Satyajit Ray's award-winning "Asani Sanket" had Bangladeshi actor Babita playing the lead female role.

FTII was set up by the Indian government in 1960 by taking over the closed-down Prabhat Studio and among distinguished students are directors Mani Kaul, Kumar Shahni, cinematographer K.K. Mahajan (who has worked under veteran director Mrinal Sen in a number of his films), actors Rehana Sultan (who won a national award for best actress), Navin Nishcal and Anil Dhawan.

Katrina's role in 'Rajneeti' not based on Sonia Gandhi: Director

2009-02-12T23:38:00.000-08:00

Bhopal, Film director Prakash Jha Tuesday denied that the role played by Katrina Kaif in his "Rajneeti" was based on Congress president Sonia Gandhi's political career.
"It (Katrina's character) has nothing to do with either the life or political career of Sonia Gandhi", Jha said here.

There have been media reports that the movie was based on the life and career of Sonia Gandhi and that the character played by Katrina bears an uncanny resemblance to her.

Green activist Shilpa donates Rs.1.2 mn for campaign

2009-02-12T23:37:00.000-08:00

Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty is an avid green activist. She was the highest individual donor for a green campaign overtaking fellow actors Shah Rukh Khan, Sanjay Dutt and Preity Zinta.
Shilpa donated Rs.1.2 million for NDTV's Greenathon, a campaign initiated by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI). The actress has adopted four villages - each costing Rs.300,000 - in support of TERI's 'Lighting a Billion Lives' project that aims at solar powering villages across the country.

Apart from Shilpa, other generous donors for the campaign included Shah Rukh Khan who has donated Rs.1.5 million along with the "Billu" team.

While Shah Rukh and the "Billu" team together adopted five villages, Akshay Kumar's son Aarav became the youngest donor of the campaign by adopting one village.

The 24-hour non-stop 'Greenathon' managed to generate over Rs.24 million through corporates, Bollywood stars, musicians, environmentalists, NGOs and educational institutions, said a press release.

Sanjay Dutt and family, Preity Zinta, Arjun Rampal, Vivek Oberoi, Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Lalit Modi, cricketer Yuvraj Singh, Nokia and Coca-Cola too have donated for the cause.

Greenathon was a TV campaign and included on-the-ground activities such as clean up drives in Mumbai and Delhi, a 24-hour marathon run by model-actor Milind Soman, and a musical extravaganza by Bollywood stars

Adnan's wife files for divorce, complains against loud music

2009-02-12T23:05:00.000-08:00

Musician Adnan Sami's domestic travails have reached a flashpoint. His estranged wife Sabah, who stays in the same house, has filed for divorce complaining that he plays his "music too loud".
Confirming this dramatic development in his domestic drama, Adnan told IANS: "Sabah's lawyers sent me the papers very late on Saturday night. Since then I've been in deep consultation with my lawyers. Yes, she has asked for a divorce and also the house which we now share in separate wings.

"She has accused me in her divorce papers, among other things, of playing my music too loud. Very frankly, I can only say all the best to Sabah. No matter what happens I will always wish her all the best in life."

What Adnan resents is the time his wife chose to bring out all her grievances against him.

"Quite honestly her timing sucks. My father is very seriously ill. In fact, last night he slipped and fell in the bathroom. Nice timing, no? Just when my life and my marriage has also slipped out of my hands."

Adnan claims his wife has asked for his parents to be also evicted from the disputed house that the couple occupies.

But Adnan is determined to fight it out.

"This house belongs to me, my parents and my son. I'm willing to give up the marriage, but I'll be damned if I give up our home. I'm a lawyer and I've hired the best available legal talent to fight my case. Fortunately, this country has the best legal minds in the world. And I've full faith in the Indian judicial system."

A non-cognisable offence was registered against Adnan at the Oshiwara police station last week after Sabah accused him of "mental and physical torture". The Pakistani singer was then summoned to the police station and warned against misbehaving with his wife in future.