Hindi Film Reviews | Bollywood Latest News

Bbuddah Hoga Tera Baap Movie Review

2011-07-02T03:32:00.000-07:00

Movie: Bbuddah Hoga Tera Baap
Rating: 3.5/5
Banners: Viacom 18 Motion Pictures, A B Corp
Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Raveena Tandon, Hema Malini, Sonal Chauhan, Sonu Sood, Prakash Raj, Charmee
Music: Shekhar Ravjiani- Vishal Dadlani
Editor: Shekhar
Cinematography: Amol Rathod
Director: Puri Jagannadh
Release Date: July 1, 2011

Tollywood director Puri Jagannadh has now entered the Bollywood circuit and he has dealt with the likes of Amitabh Bachchan and Hema Malini right in his first one. Let us see how successful he is.

Story:

ACP Karan (Sonu Sood) is a tough and honest cop who is keen on clearing the gangsters of Mumbai. This doesn’t go well with the big don Kabir Bhai (Prakash Raj). He hires a sharpshooter to kill Karan.

At this moment arrives Vijju (Amitabh) from Paris. Though he is old, he is totally young at heart and his dressing. In no time, he befriends Amrutha (Charmee), Tanya (Sonal Chauhan).

Incidentally, Karan is in love with Tanya but she doesn’t reciprocate his feelings. Meanwhile, Vijju gets in touch with Mac (Makrand Deshpande) and asks to join in his gang. Why does Vijju want to join the gang? What is his past? All this forms the rest of the story.

Performances:

It is an out and out Amitabh treat. Despite being 69 years old, Big B puts to shame all the youngsters with his dynamic performance and timing of dialogues. His body language is impeccable and his style is flamboyant.

Prakash Raj was effective and though his role was a mix of humour and seriousness, he balanced it well with his versatility and made his presence felt.

Sonu Sood was competent. He carried out his role with the required maturity and conveys the emotions in the right manner.

This is one of Charmee’s highlight performances. Her expressions, her dialogue delivery and her confidence in front of Amitabh is praiseworthy. One really wonders why she is picking up some terrible projects in Tollywood when she has so much potential.

Sonal Chauhan was sensuous, Raveena Tandon was energetic though she goes overboard few times, Hema Malini was gracious, Subbaraju made his presence felt and his Hindi was well trained, the actor doing Sonal’s father’s role was hilarious. Shahwar Ali was alright. Makrand Deshpande was not utilised to his full potential. The others did their bit as required.

Highlights:

Amitabh’s performance and screen presence
Songs
Charmee-Amitabh sequences
Screenplay
Dialogues

Drawbacks:

Jerks in sequences
No dramatism in serious scenes
Cinematography
Unwanted background score in few scenes

Final Analysis:

Given the fact that this is Puri’s debut vehicle, there are many challenges for him. Understanding the pulse of Hindi audience, working with the likes of Amitabh Bachchan, the subject chosen to project the protagonist are few of them.

However, given his strength in the screenplay and keeping the pace of the film consistent, the movie turns out to be an enjoyable fare. The commercial values are full and few scenes have come out really well while inconsistencies were seen in few other sequences.

Overall, this is a film which is good in parts but delivers the required punch to Amitabh fans. At the box office, commercial success is guaranteed and if the hype continues a bumper hit is on the cards.

The dialogues and the humor quotient is abundant enough for masses.

Source: Greatandhra

Ready Hindi Movie Review

2011-06-03T12:08:00.000-07:00

Film: Ready
Rating: 3.25/5
Cast: Salman Khan, Asin, Arya Babbar, Paresh Rawal, Ajay Devgn, Sanjay Dutt, Zarine Khan, Kangna Ranaut
Music: Pritam Chakraborty, Devi Shri Prasad
Cinematography: Sunil Patel, Thomas Xavier
Director: Anees Bazmee
Producers: Rajat Rawail, Bhushan Kumar, Nitin Manmohan, Sohail Khan
Release Date: June 3, 2011

The Telugu blockbuster ‘Ready’ has now forayed into Bollywood and this has been taken by the superstar Salman Khan. Let us see if it matches the original.

Story:
Prem Kapoor (Salman) hails from a rich family and he has a smart brain with a kind heart. His life takes a turn with the arrival of Sanjana (Asin) who poses as the possible marriage prospect for Prem and enters his home.

Actually, Sanjana is escaping from the clutches of her mafia uncles (Sharad Saxena, Akhilendra Mishra) who have their eyes on her property and become sworn enemies of each other due to that. In no time, Prem discovers her true identity but by that time he falls in love with her.

However, she is located by her uncles and Prem decides to put an end to this problem. How does he do that? What happens to his love story? All this forms the rest of the story.

Performances:

Salman is the life and soul of this movie as he gels into his character with ease. His contained performance connects well with the audience and he scores the brownie points.

Asin fills the romantic side and though there is not much from her in the performance side, she manages to show her sensuous side in the songs.

Paresh Rawal was excellent and as usual he entertains with his body language and one liners.

Mahesh Manjrekar was hilarious with his double entendres and he carries out his role effectively.

Akhilendra Mishra was apt, Sharad Saxena was decent, Manoj Joshi was moderate, Manoj Pahwa was good, Aryan Babbar was okay, Anuradha Patel is still gorgeous and attracts, Puneet Issar was brief, Sudesh Lehri brought few smiles. The special appearances by Arbaaz Khan, Sanjay Dutt, Ajay Devgn, Kangna Ranaut, Zarine Khan were fulfilling. The others did their bit as required and added value.

Highlights:

* Dialogues
* Visual appeal
* Three songs especially Dhinka Chika..
* Salman Khan- Asin chemistry
* Comedy

Drawbacks:

* Not as natural as the original
* Depth missing in emotional scenes
* Not enough star power (although stars appeared in guest roles)

Analysis
The film happens to be the remake of the Telugu flick ‘Ready’ and for Tollywood audience, the comparison is bound to happen.

As such, the nativity factor may be missing but then to the Hindi audience, this concept is new. Also, there is a significant twist in the story about the way the heroine enters the hero’s home unlike the original version.

However, with family bonding theme, fair amount of comedy, colourful sets and breezy entertainment and above all the concept, the Hindi audience will get the feeling of money’s worth.

This is another facet of Salman Khan which will appeal to his fans as well. There are times when the screenplay falters, especially during the first half and few fun scenes look superficial. But still, given the pace of the film and convicted performances, the film manages to leave no idle moment and follows the perfect formula for a commercial entertainer. Second half scores better than first half.

At the box office, the pre release hype and the chartbuster songs will give very strong openings and with an above average narrative, the film is bound to score well.

Bottomline: Hindi audience will appreciate this readily but Telugu audience let it down in comparison with original!!

Source: Greatandhra

Deepika Padukone Hot Photos at Rana Press Meet

2011-05-07T00:19:00.000-07:00

Dum Maro Dum Movie Review

2011-04-21T23:21:00.000-07:00

Rating: 3/5
Banners: Ramesh Sippy Entertainment, Fox Star Studios
Cast: Abhishek Bachchan, Aditya Pancholi, Bipasha Basu, Rana Daggubati
Music: Pritam Chakraborty
Cinematography: Amit Roy
Director: Rohan Sippy
Producer: Ramesh Sippy
Release Date: April 22nd 2011

While Abhishek Bachchan is taking his litmus test owing to his string of flops, it is also the debut of our Daggubati Rana in Bollywood. Let us see how much ‘Dum’ the film has got

Story:

Set on the backdrop of Goa, the story is about how drugs have taken over the paradise city and the increased presence of drug mafia.

Here comes ACP Vishnu Kamath (Abhishek) who decides to clean up the place. On the other hand, there is the social celebrity Lorsa Biscuita (Aditya Pancholi) who in the garb of social service runs a big drug cartel.

Caught in between the clash of Vishnu and Biscuit is DJ Joki (Rana) whose girlfriend Zoe (Bipasha) now stays with Biscuit, Lorie (Prateik) who aspires to go abroad and study but gets caught taking drugs. The search is on for one Michael Barbossa, the kingpin of this drug ring. Who is Michael Barbossa? What happens to everyone’s life forms the rest of the story.

Performances:

Abhishek Bachchan has come up with a strict performance and though there are those blank expressions, he makes his presence felt.

Daggubati Rana can be called the hero of the film. His screen time is longer than Abhishek, he has a significant role in the entire story and he gets to have the hot Bipasha. Performance wise, his stiff expressions still carry. He is yet to get that versatility of expressions on his face. Otherwise, his screen presence is good. He may get another chance on Bollywood screen for his great looks.

Bipasha Basu is seductive as usual and she does her bit as required.

Aditya Pancholi was handsome as usual and though his presence as the baddie doesn’t give that impact, he has given a sincere performance.

Prateik Babbar was apt, Govind Namdeo was great, Gantois Gomes was neat, Anaitha Nair was sweet. Deepika Padukone’s item song was not up to the hype. Vidya Balan’s cameo was brief but graceful.

Highlights:

* Cinematography
* Dialogues
* First half
* Scene compositions

Drawbacks:

* Dragged second half
* Deepika’s item song was dull
* No impacting scenes
* No character has significance

Analysis:

The basic plot of the film reminds us of the exceptional thriller ‘Usual Suspects’. However, the makers were clever in switching the characters here and there, changing the script with additional characters.

On the good side, the film was stylish, glossy and attempts to give some reality bites of Goa. On the flip side, the film passes off without any gripping moments or sequences that can strike a chord with the hearts of the audience.

Editing was much needed during the second half and if the film was trimmed there, it would have created good impact. But still, the attempt was novel, the essence was appreciable, the presentation was effective. At the box office, this will appeal to the multiplex audience so if word of mouth publicity goes strong, it can reach profit zone.

Bottom Line: Watchable but will not give you the ‘High’!!!

Source: Greatandhra

Ra.One Teaser Promo Official

2011-03-26T10:49:00.001-07:00

Akshay's 'Patiala House' Role Inspired by Monty Panesar

2010-12-28T04:49:00.001-08:00

In his next film “Patiala House”, Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar will be seen essaying a role which has been inspired by England cricket team’s Sikh member Monty Singh Panesar.

Panesar is the first Sikh to join England cricket team and the spinner is a crowd favourite. Panesar’s parents migrated there from Punjab.

In “Patiala House”, Akshay will be seen as Parghat Singh Kahlon, a British citizen whose dream is to be a pace bowler.

The film is being directed by Nikhil Advani and also stars Anushka Sharma, Rishi Kapoor and Dimple Kapadia. It is slated to release in Feb next year.

Aamir Pays Surprise Visit to Big B

2010-12-28T04:47:00.000-08:00

Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan was reliving memories of shooting on floor number one of Mumbai’s Film City when actor-producer Aamir Khan paid him a surprise visit.

“In the middle of the shoot Aamir Khan dropped by to have a chat and it was as always wonderful,” Amitabh posted on his blog www.bigb.bigadda.com.

Amitabh was nostalgic as he was shooting for an advertisement at the same place which he inaugurated almost 30 years back.

'Tera Kya Hoga Johnny' Release Postponed Indefinitely

2010-12-28T04:45:00.002-08:00

Filmmaker Sudhir Mishra’s “Tera Kya Hoga Johnny” seems jinxed! The movie was wrapped up in 2008 and was slated for a New Year’s eve release, but has now been further delayed.

“The release of ‘Tera Kya hoga Johnny’ is being postponed indefinitely owing to unfavourable market conditions,” said a press statement from the movie’s publicist.

The film features debutant Sikandar Agarwal in the lead, and has a line up of actors like Neil Nitin Mukesh, Soha Ali Khan, Karan Nath, Kay Kay Menon and Shahana Goswami. Produced by Tutu Sharma and Manu Kumaran of Medient Production, it traces the lives of individuals trapped in extreme circumstances with four short stories.

Akshay Plans Holiday in Goa for Twinkle’s Birthday

2010-12-28T04:45:00.001-08:00

A family holiday is the only thing on Akshay Kumar’s mind after the release of “Tees Maar Khan”. So the Bollywood star is off to Goa to celebrate his wife Twinkle’s 36th birthday Wednesday as well as ring in the New Year with a bang.

“I am going to Goa with my family for nine days and I will just enjoy myself. We will be celebrating Tina’s (Twinkle) birthday there first and then party on New Year’s Eve,” Akshay said over phone from Mumbai.

The action star, whose cookery game show “MasterChef India” on Star Plus came to a grand end last week, says he makes sure he chalks out adequate family time every year to take Twinkle and their eight-year-old son Aarav.

“You need to strike the right balance between work and family. I manage it very carefully. My family understands the nature of my work and never bothers me when I am working. So when I am on a holiday, I never give them a chance to complain and I just have fun,” he said.

He also makes sure to pamper his wife once every year.

“I like to take breaks between my projects and once every year, I take a slightly long break. At that time, I just keep a globe in front of my wife and I ask her to choose whichever destination she wants to go for a holiday, and that’s where we head! She allows me complete freedom, so I can do at least this much for her,” said the dutiful husband.

It was an average year for Akshay with films like “Housefull”, “Khatta Meetha”, “Action Replayy” and “Tees Maar Khan”, apart from his presence on the small screen as the host and judge of “MasterChef India”. He says the TV show was a “great learning experience” as it was not just a chance for him to get a step closer to the masses, but also a chance for him to pick up new cookery tips.

“I met so many people through this show and learnt so much. For the first time I heard of cooking fish in curd and mustard…I picked up many such new combinations and ingredients.

“I could relate to their emotions because I also come from the same background. I could understand their feeling of staying away from home for a long time and could understand their needs in their quest for success…,” said the 43-year-old, who lead a simple life in Chandni Chowk in New Delhi before he became a chef in Bangkok and then finally movedg to filmdom with “Saugandh” in 1991.

The actor, best known for his action stunts in Bollywood, says he is ready to be back with a second season of the show.

“I hope so that the channel would like to do a second season of ‘Masterchef India’. I don’t know yet, but Star Plus and I share quite a good rapport and hopefully we will return with the second season. I am all for it,” he said.

After the holiday, Akshay is looking forward to the release of “Patiala House”, the official trailer of which has been released with “Tees Maar Khan”. Following that, he will begin shooting for Anees Bazmee’s “Thank You”.

Adnan Sami Gets Notice on Mumbai Properties

2010-12-28T04:44:00.000-08:00

Pakistani singer-composer Adnan Sami has been issued a notice by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for owning eight flats and five car parking spaces in Mumbai.

A fine of Rs.20 lakh has also been slapped on the singer.

Sami said: “I have received an order from the ED which says my properties will be confiscated if I do not file an appeal in the next 45 days.”

He rubbished media reports claiming that his flats have been confiscated.

“The order was received Dec 21 and we have 45 days from then to file an appeal, which we will move at the earliest. But the properties have not been confiscated yet,” said Sami’s lawyer Vibhav Krishna.

The ED order mentions that Sami’s application for buying property in Mumbai was rejected by the Reserve Bank of India in 2003 owning to his Pakistani nationality. Sami, however, denies any knowledge of the rejection.

Sami owns eight flats and five car parking spaces in Oberoi Sky Garden in suburban Andheri.

Shifting the onus on the builder, Sami said: “I was friends with Vikas Oberoi, the builder of Oberoi Sky Garden. In 2003, I had told him I want to buy a property in Mumbai. He had told me about his upcoming project and that his legal team will take care of all the formalities if I want to buy property.”

“In fact my bank loan was also cleared and the property registered in my name. I had no idea that the RBI has rejected my application.”

Sami had purchased the flats in 2003 at the cost of Rs.2.53 crore and had taken a loan of Rs 1.5 crore for the purchase.

Sami has been served the confiscation order under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA).

Vikas Oberoi could not be contacted despite repeated attempts.

Ajay, Katrina announced most profitable actors of 2010

2010-12-28T04:42:00.000-08:00

Bollywood actors Ajay Devgn and Katrina Kaif will be crowned the most profitable actors of 2010 at the “ETC Bollywood Business Awards 2010 – Evaluating Movie Moghuls” Tuesday. First timer Abhinav Kashyap will get the most profitable director trophy.

On evaluating the industry players on the basis of return on investment for the first time, the actors have won the top spots after the economic quotient of their movies was taken into consideration as a cornerstone for mapping their success.

“Figures talk, you cannot manipulate it, you cannot play games with it,” said Ajay, who has had six releases this year including “Atithi Tum Kab Jaoge?” “Raajneeti”, “Golmaal 3″, and “Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai” and except “Aakrosh” and “Toonpur Ka Superhero”, all his movies did good business.

The research done by ETC indicated that Indian audiences paid a cumulative sum of Rs.282 crore to watch Ajay’s films throughout the year vis-a-vis Rs.142 crore to watch Katrina’s “Raajneeti” and “Tees Maar Khan”.

Breaking all records is Salman Khan starrer “Dabangg” that has been named as the top grosser of the year. Debut director Abhinav Kashyap bagged the most profitable director trophy for the corrupt cop saga with audiences paying a cumulative sum of over Rs.140 crore to watch his film.

“It is a fair assessment of the recipient’s work and his popularity and mass appeal,” said Arbaaz Khan, winner of the most successful producer for “Dabangg”.

This will be the first time in India where an initiative has sought to recognize even the marketers, distributors, production houses and exhibitors on the basis of business the industry has generated in 2010.

“All those who represent the industry, actors, musicians and directors have only been judged on creative parameters. No one had thought of evaluating them on how much business they had generated,” Anurag Bedi, business head, ETC, said in a statement.

“Such an evaluation will bring forward the workings of Bollywood as an industry,” he added.

The ceremony also has first time categories such as marketing (best marketed film of the year – “My Name Is Khan”), distribution (special award for film distribution) and promotion (most successful banner/corporate house/production house of the year), among others.

While the award for the most profitable multiplex chain of the year goes to PVR Cinemas, the most successful small-budget film of the year trophy will be handed over to “Peepli Live”. Corporate house of the year is Shree Ashtvinayak Cinevison Ltd.

The ceremony will also recognise the most successful Hollywood film of the year with “Inception” taking centrestage.

“ETC Bollywood Business Awards 2010 – Evaluating Movie Moghuls” will air Tuesday at 8.30 p.m. on ETC channel.

‘Abhi Kuch Dino Se’ Exclusive Promo from Dil Toh Baccha Hai Ji

2010-12-28T04:40:00.000-08:00

'Tees Maar Khan' Claims New Victim – in Nepal

2010-12-21T04:52:00.000-08:00

“Tees Maar Khan”, the “great” Indian criminal, the likes of whom are born only once in a blue moon, and who “steals, cheats and cons with amazing audacity” has struck again – this time in Nepal.

When Nepali film director Dev Kumar Shrestha announced his new film, the first supernatural thriller in Nepal, would be released on Christmas eve, he was not deterred by the thought of theatre-goers being diverted by festivities or new Nepali films releasing simultaneously with star-studded casts, or for that matter, “Tees Maar Khan”.

However, the 38-year-old was forced to call a press conference Monday to concede that “Ek din, ek raat” would now be shown a week later, from Dec 31.

“Tees Maar Khan”, Bollywood’s much-hyped new action comedy directed by Farah Khan and starring Akshay Kumar as the super rogue and Katrina Kaif as his leading lady, is being released internationally Dec 24 and Shrestha decided not to take any chances.

“Nepalis are avid watchers of Hindi films,” Shrestha said. “Besides being preceded by a lot of hype, ‘Tees Maar Khan’ is a big-budget film made under a big banner and with big stars.”

By contrast “Ek din, ek raat”, despite receiving considerable pre-release publicity in Nepal, was made on a budget of NRS 8 million – Rs.5 million in Indian currency – which would be considered peanuts in India’s mega-billion-rupee spinning film industry.

It also deliberately avoided signing up big names, instead opting for theatre artistes with a solid reputation for acting skills.

Unlike most Nepali films, “Ek din, ek raat” would be screened in Jai Nepal, one of the best theatres in Kathmandu that shows only exceptional Nepali films. So with the multiplex also releasing “Tees Maar Khan” Friday, Shrestha thought it prudent not to take the big Bollywood rival head-on.

In Nepal, it is not Nepali directors but Bollywood that still remains the film industry’s biggest competitor.

When Manisha Koirala’s comeback film in Nepali after two decades in Bollywood was released earlier this month, director Dipendra K. Khanal decided to change the title to “Dharmaa”.

The original title was “Rajniti” but Khanal feared it would seem a copy of Bollywood director Prakash Jha’s political drama by the same name that was released in Nepal as well and lauded, even by top Maoist leaders who had once advocated banning Hindi films in Nepal.

Veteran Nepali film maker Yubaraj Lama decided to shelve making a film on the Buddha after the news broke that Bollywood director Ashutosh Gowarikar was also making a film on the same subject.

However, despite Shrestha’s retreat, “Tees Maar Khan” may not have an entirely triumphant reign in Nepal.

It is bound to be regarded critically, especially as Akshay Kumar’s earlier film, “Chandni Chowk to China”, was banned in Nepal last year after director Nikhil Advani’s kungfu comedy triggered public protests due to the script, which erroneously said the Buddha was born in India.

The founder of Buddhism was born in southern Nepal and the wrong note led to the then Maoist government ban the film in Nepal.

Hrithik Completes a Decade of Married Life

2010-12-21T04:51:00.000-08:00

Superstar Hrithik Roshan, who marked the 10th anniversary of his marriage with Sussanne Khan Monday, has thanked his friends and fans for their love.

“Been reading all tweets…thank you so much for all your wonderful wishes! Sending our love to all out there,” Hrithik posted on Twitter.

Actress Mallika Sherawat was among many who wished the couple.

“Happy anniversary to Hrithik and Sussanne…A loveliest of couples! Many more happy years to you both,” she posted.

Hrithik and Sussanne have two children – Hrehaan, four, and Hridhaan, two.

It’s ‘Tees Maar Khan’ vs ‘Toonpur Ka Superhero’ This Friday-Preview

2010-12-21T04:50:00.000-08:00

Film buffs are in for a treat this Christmas as choreographer-turned-director Farah Khan’s highly anticipated film “Tees Maar Khan”, starring Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif, hits the silver screen along with Ajay Devgn’s animation film “Toonpur Ka Superhero” this Friday.

Filmmaker Sooraj Barjatya also returns with his new film “Isi Life Mein” with debutants Sandeepa Dhar and Akshay Oberoi.

“Tees Maar Khan”, produced by Twinkle Khanna, Shirish Kunder and Ronnie Screwvala with a budget of Rs.50 crore ($11 million), is a story about Tabrez Mirza Khan (Akshay) who steals, cons and cheats with such an audacity that none even gets the slightest hint about his deeds. His gang members include three others named Dollar, Soda and Burger.

International antique smugglers Johri Brothers (Raghu Ram and Rajiv Laxman) ask Tabrez once to perform the biggest heist of his life. They ask him to steal antiques worth Rs.500 crore from a heavily guarded moving train.

The film’s music is already a rage, with Katrina making fans groove to her item song “Sheila Ki Jawani”.

The film also stars Akshaye Khanna, Raghu Ram, Rajiv Laxman, Arya Babbar and Aman Verma. It also has special appearences by Salman Khan, Anil Kapoor and Sanjay Dutt.

“Toonpur Ka Superhero”, featuring Ajay Devgn and Kajol, would be India’s first live action-animation film. It is produced by Kumar Mangat Pathak and Krishika Lulla and distributed by Eros International.

Directed by Kireet Khurana, the film tells the story of film star Aditya (Ajay) who has all the success he ever dreamt of. He is married to Priya (Kajol) and has two kids Kabeer and Raima. He might be a superstar but his children want him to be hero in real life rather than in reel.

Aditya gets one such opportunity when he finds himself in Toonpur, the land of his children’s favourite cartoons, where he has to fight Toonasurs (demon toons) to save Devtoons (good toons).

The film also stars Tanuja, Mukesh Tiwari, Sanjay Mishra and Delnaaz Paul. Khurana has won five National Awards for short animation films and has directed almost 400 commercials and “Toonpur Ka Superhero” is his first feature film.

While Ajay and Kajol team up for this film after two years, it also reunited the mother-daughter duo of Kajol and Tanuja 18 years after “Bekhudi”, which was the launch vehicle for Kajol in the film industry.

After his last film “Ek Vivaah Aisa Bhi”, Sooraj Barjatya is returning with his new production venture “Isi Life Mein” with two newcomers Sandeepa and Akshay, who is actor Vivek Oberoi’s cousin.

Produced under Rajshri Productions and directed by Vidhi Kasliwal, Barjatya’s niece, the story of the film revolves around the journey of a small town girl Rajnandini, who is not allowed to dream and lead a life according to her own wishes.

Somehow she takes admission to a Mumbai college and meets Vivaan and his gang of friends, who make her believe that she has the right and the capability to accomplish her dreams. It’s then that things start changing for her.

Whether Christmas will set cash registers ringing for all three of these films is yet to be seen.

Expensive Action Sequences to be Shot for ‘Agent Vinod’

2010-12-21T04:47:00.000-08:00

Producer Saif Ali Khan has asked his “Agent Vinod” director Sriram Raghavan to shoot three very expensive action sequences.

“I will have only three action sequences. But I won’t compromise on quality. I’ve spent considerable time writing the action sequences into the script. Now comes their execution,” Sriram said.

The next schedule of “Agent Vinod” is in March 2011.

“There are three big action sequences still to be shot. They require major prepping.I want to plan them out and shoot them on priority. There was no point going into another schedule without the required budget. We now have that in place for March. These sequences are VFX heavy and it’s better to do them first before I do my balance scenes. We’ve shot about an hour of footage already,” he added.

Sriram still hopes to release the film towards the end of next year.

“Both Saif and Kareena would have to be trained before we do the remaining action sequences,” Sriram said.

Making an action film as slick as its counterparts in Hollywood is not easy. Two of the pending action sequences would be shot in the UAE, far away from the country where they are located in the script, to economize on the rapidly spiraling budget.

Sriram admits he has been asked to keep costs down. “I need to keep a quality check while making sure we don’t go over-budget. There are three big action sequences to be shot. And yes, you’ve heard right. Two of them might be shot in the same location. For one of them I need choppers flying in the night. In India we aren’t allowed choppers at night. So we’ll have to shoot in the UAE.”

Sriram, who has already edited 65 minutes of footage for “Agent Vinod”, needs to shoot a very stylish prologue to go with the opening titles, and an epilogue which requires four days of shooting in Britain.

Would the prologue be as as stylish as the ones in the James Bond flicks?

Laughs Sriram: “I wish! But we don’t have that kind of budget.”

Kareena Kapoor has been telling the world that she has no heavyduty action sequences to perform with Saif in “Agent Vinod”.

The fact is, she has not one, but two very stylish and complex action sequences in “Agent Vinod”. For this she needs to undergo some amount of training. Apparently these sequences have been postponed until she finds the time to train, and until the budget permits them to be shot.

If preparedness is all, then “Agent Vinod” is not all there. Not yet.

Katrina Kaif Voted as World’s Sexiest Woman!

2010-12-15T02:48:00.000-08:00

Katrina Kaif has topped the list of Sexiest Woman across the World in the London based newspaper Eastern Eye’s list for the third time in a row beating all the other competitive actresses. The poll was held on all the top actresses across the world, pop stars and TV personalities. Most of the Bollywood actresses spotted in the top 10 list. Priyanka Chopra has bagged the second position followed by Bipasha and Frieda Pinto in third and fourth positions respectively.

Kat was quite happy with this hat-trick win and thanked one and all for their support. Katrina Kaif says, “I’m very happy that I have made it to the top of Eastern Eye’s list again. England is off course a very special place to me and I think it’s very sweet to be voted the sexiest by them. I just want to thank everyone for the support.”

'Jai Ho' Rahman at Golden Globe Nominations

2010-12-15T02:47:00.000-08:00

It doesn’t get bigger than this for A.R. Rahman. The double Oscar winning Indian composer has bagged a Golden Globe nomination for Danny Boyle’s “127 Hours”, having already won the trophy once for the director’s mega sweep “Slumdog Millionaire” in 2009.

This is the 44-year-old’s second flick at Hollywood’s second most prestigious annual movie prize after Boyle’s Mumbai-based multiple-Oscar award wining underdog drama “Slumdog Millionaire”. Rahman won two Oscars and a Golden Globe for his number “Jai ho” in the movie.

The Chennai-based composer is competing in the same section as before – Original Score for a motion picture category – with the likes of Alexandre Desplat (”The King’s Speech”), Danny Elfman (”Alice in Wonderland”), Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross (”The Social Network”), and Hans Zimmer (”Inception”).

Bollywood was on cloud nine with its leading musician’s feat.

“AR Rahman nominated for Golden Globe for ‘127 Hours’ score. Marching to another Oscar?” tweeted filmmaker Shekhar Kapur.

The soundtrack of “127 Hours” includes the popular song “If I Rise”, a collaboration between Rahman and pop star Dido.

Starring “Spider-Man” star James Franco, the movie is a biopic about mountaineer Aron Ralston, who was trapped in a canyon in Utah for five days by a boulder that fell on his right arm and he freed himself by amputating the limb.

Ralston recently even complimented the composer on his music in the film by sending him a hand-written note.

It read: “For A.R, Thank you for bringing your amazing music to my story – if only I had your soundtrack in the canyon, I could’ve lasted another 127 hours. Best Wishes, A.R. (Aron Ralston).”

Fondly called the Mozart of Madras, Rahman was honoured with a Padma Bhushan this year.

The shy musician also has two gramophones on his shelf that he won at the 52nd Grammy Awards for his music in “Slumdog Millionaire”.

The only defeat he had had was at this year’s Oscars ceremony when his number “Na Na” from his Hollywood debut venture “Couple’s Retreat” failed to win a nomination in the Best Original Song category at the gala.

'No One Killed Jessica' Director Okay with A-Certificate

2010-12-15T02:45:00.000-08:00

Rani Mukerji’s character mouths expletives non-stop in the much talked-about film “No One Killed Jessica”. Director Rajkumar Gupta admits that the actress’ character is “very brutal and graphic in her speech” but he is not so worried about the film getting A-certificate from the censor board.

“We voluntarily beeped out Rani’s expletive in the trailer because it was to be screened on the home viewing medium. But now when we submit the film for censorship, we will go with the entire language content intact, hoping the censor board would see the context and not just the hard-hitting nature of the language,” said Gupta.

“We are hoping for a UA (parental guidance) certificate. But even if we get an Adults certificate, we’re okay with it,” he added.

The film is based on model Jessica Lall’s murder case. In the film Vidya Balan will be seen as Jessica’s sister Sabrina who fought tooth and nail to get justice for her sister. Rani plays a journalist.

According to sources, Rani’s character’s flow of profanities is so non-stop that if the censor board decided to beep her gaalis her dialogue soundtrack would have more beeps than words.

Laughs and protests Gupta, saying: “It’ not that bad, really. You are making it sound like a non-stop abuse binge. My film is not that.”

“But yes, Rani’s character is very brutal and graphic in her speech. I don’t know if, as you say, Rani is the same way in real life. I didn’t know her before I shot with her. But she was thoroughly professional in mouthing squirmy words.”

While Rani is said to be gung-ho about the language, Vidya Balan is apparently dreading how the dialogues would sound in a pindrop-silent theatre with dolby sound.

“Let’s just say, both Rani and Vidya said what they had to. They were thorough professionals,” said Gupta.

Another area of discomfort for the film would be the legal ramifications of showing real-life people, particularly the hostile witnesses in the murder case.

Apparently some of the key witnesses are already inquiring about the content and getting ready for legal action.

“We’re ready for any eventuality. I made the film the way I wanted to as a mix of realism and cinematic entertainment. ‘No One Killed Jessica’ is not a documentary on the Jessica Lall case. But it is about her sister’s fight for justice. And if the real-life characters recognise themselves, they are welcome to react how they want.”

In fact, former top cop Amodh Kanth has urged the Indian censor board to ensure that only the facts relating to the Jessica Lall murder case are presented in “No One Killed Jessica”.

Mishra Not Pleased With A-certificate For 'Tera Kya Hoga Johnny'

2010-12-15T02:42:00.000-08:00

Filmmaker Sudhir Mishra is upset that his forthcoming film “Tera Kya Hoga Johnny” has been given an ‘A’ certificate that entitles only adults to view the film. Nevertheless, he feels it is better than altering his storytelling to please the censors.

“Tera Kya Hoga Johnny” traces the psyche of individuals trapped in extreme circumstances with four short stories based in the murky lanes of Mumbai.

“This is a film that everyone should watch. What is shown in the film is a hundred times milder than what actually happens on the streets of Mumbai. We wanted this film to reach a wider audience and make them aware of an aspect of Mumbai that they ignore or don’t even know about. But I’d rather go with the adult certificate than compromise on the storytelling,” said Mishra.

The censor board is believed to have objected to a scene where a cop is shown making sexual advances to a boy. Mishra was also asked to snip off some expletives if he wanted a U/A certificate for the film. Apparently, the censors also objected to certain shots where people were shown trading in and consuming cocaine.

But Mishra wasn’t ready to compromise on his creative freedom.

“All these scenes are key to the very essence of the film and to the characters being portrayed. So making any of the changes would have meant changing what I was trying to convey in the first place,” he said.

The film, featuring debutant Sikandar Agarwal, Neil Nitin Mukesh, Shahana Goswami, Kay Kay Menon, Soha Ali Khan, among others, was scheduled to release Friday, but has now been delayed until Dec 31.

Dhulia Wraps Up Movie Shoot Amid Bee Stings

2010-12-15T02:40:00.000-08:00

Nothing deters Tigmanshu Dhulia from shooting his film in real loactions — the writer-director just wrapped the filming of “Sahib Biwi Aur Gangster” in Gujarat despite being attacked by a swarm of bees.

Shot across Gujarat on a 30 day back to back schedule, Dhulia with his cast and crew was attacked by a cluster of bees while shooting for the movie in a haveli.

“We look like a mess. Some of the actors have swollen faces and lips due to bee stings. These will obviously show on camera, more so since we’re using a very sophisticated camera, the Alexa, for the first time in Indian cinema,” Dhulia said in a statement.

Produced by Brandsmith and Tigmanshu Dhulia Films, “Sahib Biwi Aur Gangster” stars Jimmy Shergill, Randeep Hooda, Mahie Gill, Deepal Shaw, Vipin Sharma, Shreya Narain, Deepraj Rana and Mukesh Tyagi.

“There were more than 10 bee hives in the haveli and we had requested these to be cleared before the shooting, but guess no one paid heed… so while we were shooting, guess it was the smoke from the lights that disturbed them and they descended on us and bit us all over,” Rahul Mittra, chief executive officer of Bradnsmith, said.

“No one was spared from the cast to the crew, everyone was bitten. We then called the tribals who performed some puja and cleared the bees in one whole night,” he added.

Ajay, Abhishek Back After Eight Years

2010-12-15T02:38:00.000-08:00

Ajay,-AbhishekAbhishek Bachchan and Ajay Devgn will re-unite on the big screen after a gap of eight years in the film “Bol Bachchan”.

“My company will be producing a film called ‘Bol Bachchan’, which will release by Diwali next year. Abhishek and I will be acting in it,” said Ajay.

The film will be directed by Rohit Shetty, and Kareena Kapoor is expected to play the female lead.

Abhishek and Ajay were last seen in 2003 “Zameen”, which was also directed by Shetty.

Sameera Reddy's Birthday Plans

2010-12-15T02:36:00.000-08:00

"I couldn't stop laughing when it all happened," recalls actress Sameera Reddy, who celebrates her birthday today on the sets of Prabhu Deva's upcoming Tamil flick, "Prabhu sir was explaining to me last week that we had to shoot the birthday sequence for Paaro, the character I play in his film. He had said that we'd do it on December 14 and went on to explain the entire sequence. I kept giggling all the time and then told him that it was my actual birthday on that day too. It was uncanny timing!"

The actress had a whale of a time in Chennai shooting for the film in which she co-stars Vishal. "I'm yet to start shooting my scenes with Vishal," she states, "But I did meet him during the puja of the film and I must say, he's quite tall! I hope our chemistry clicks once we start shooting together."

Meanwhile, the actress is all praise for director Prabhu Deva with whom she's working for the first time. "He never seems to relax," she says, "I've heard from people that he's focussed and now, after working with him in the past few weeks, I can vouch for it. He's always thinking of ways to improve a scene; that's something I like about him."

So, what's her role in the film like? "I play a fun-loving college girl (Paaro)," she says, "There's a lot of comedy and life in Paaro. And yes, she has quite a few punch lines too!"

In the coming year, the actress plans to concentrate more on her Tamil projects. "Yes, 2011 will be the year when I'll go all out in Tamil," she reveals, "There have been several complaints from fans on my micro blogging page about me not doing enough Tamil films. That was when I was shooting for Gautham's Nadunisi Naaygal, a few months ago. So, I've decided to work a lot more here." Apart from Prabhu Deva's film, Sameera has Linugusamy's Vettai, for which work will start early next year.

Budday plans
I'll be in Chennai shooting in the first half of the day. Then, I'm off to Mumbai where I'll be shooting for an ad. All my friends are upset that there's not going to be a party on my special day!

When Freida Pinto Went Unrecognised

2010-12-14T02:27:00.000-08:00

“Slumdog Millionaire” star Freida Pinto was surprised when nobody recognised her in a Mumbai slum recently.

“People in the city recognise me as the girl from ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ and inevitably they stare. But when I visited the slums with an NGO, nobody recognised me at all. I didn’t mind,” femalefirst.co.uk quoted Pinto as saying.

The 26-year-old star shot to fame after the Oscar winning movie and since then has featured on cover pages of a lot of fashion magazines and has bagged a few Hollywood projects as well.

Freida Pinto Photo Gallery

Tera Kya Hoga Jhonny Movie Preview

2010-12-14T02:25:00.000-08:00

After exploring Mumbai in “Dharavi”, “Is Raat Ki Subah Nahi” and “Chameli”, director Sudhir Mishra is set to take audiences through the murky lanes of the western metropolis again in his dark thriller “Tera Kya Hoga Johnny”, which is releasing Friday.

The film explores the psyche of individuals trapped in extreme circumstances with four short stories.

Set in a time when people are trying to turn Mumbai into another Shanghai, “Tera Kya Hoga…” stars debutant Sikandar Agarwal in the lead. Neil Nitin Mukesh, Soha Ali Khan, Karan Nath, Kay Kay Menon and Shahana Goswami also form the cast of the movie along with filmmakers Anurag Kashyap and Aditya Bhattacharya.

Produced by Tutu Sharma and Manu Kumaran of Medient Production, the thrilling drama has been written by Sudhir Mishra who has given new meanings to emotions like greed, love, betrayal and hope in his script.

“Tera Kya Hoga Johnny” is Mishra’s first release after “Khoya Khoya Chand”.

The first story is about Parvez (Neil), whose life is torn between his desperation to run away with the love of his life Divya (Shahana) and his desire to get rich quickly.

Divya is married to corrupt encounter cop Chiple, played by Kay Kay. Parvez decides to steal Chiple’s money and thus unfolds new thrills in the story.

Then there is the story of Priti (Soha) and Vishal (Karan). Soha is a small-time model who is dating Vishal, a cocaine addict, who is involved in the world of crime.

Intertwined into the lives of these characters are Chutta (Vijay Maurya), a drug dealer who aims to corporatise the trade along with eunuch Begam played by Saurabh Shukla.

The medium budget “Tera Kya Hoga Johnny” was wrapped up in 2008, but the release was deferred for some unknown reasons and the producer Sharma is happy that it is releasing now. The film made headlines when its uncut version was leaked online.

Saif, Deepika to Sizzle Again in Adajania’s Next

2010-12-14T02:21:00.000-08:00

After wowing the audience with their sizzling chemistry in “Love Aaj Kal”, Saif Ali Khan and Deepika Padukone have teamed up again for Homi Adajania’s untitled film.

“I’m very excited about this story. It is romantic, funny and has a great balance of drama and entertainment. I’ve wanted to do a love story with a modern sensibility and treatment and I know that Homi will give us exactly that,” Saif in a statement.

“I’m also looking forward to my pairing with Deepika again…. She has a fantastic role in this and I think she has grown impressively since ‘LAK’ and will handle it very well,” he added.

Deepika is also excited to be working with Saif again.

“I have seen Homi’s ‘Being Cyrus’, and absolutely love his work, I have great respect for him, and I’m confident he is the perfect choice to direct this film. I haven’t played shades of a character like this before. This film also marks the reunion of the Love Aaj Kal team,” said Deepika.

Imtiaz is writing the script for the movie, which will be shot in London, Spain and Delhi. The film is being produced by Saif’s ex-business partner Dinesh Vijan under the banner Illuminati Films.

“It’s a similar space from where ‘Love Aaj Kal’ left off and then it roller-coasters from there… Imtiaz (Ali) has given us a hysterical and open-minded celebration of relationships that explore the various choices that life may offer… and what people are willing to surrender for love or sacrifice for friendship,” Adajania said in a statement.

Deepika Padukone Photo Gallery

Aamir Bashir’s ‘Harud’ in Competition Section at Dubai Fest

2010-12-14T02:20:00.000-08:00

The directorial debut of actor Aamir Bashir’s “Harud” is competing for Muhr Asia Africa awards at the seventh edition of Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF) and the director says festivals are the only way to reach a wider audience.

“This is the only Indian feature film that is in the competition for Muhr Asia Africa awards here. The first run has been good so far, let’s see how far we can take it,” Bashir said in an interview here.

The actor-director, who is from Kashmir, wielded the megaphone to tell the story of Rafiq, who is struggling to come to terms with the loss of his elder brother Tauqir, a tourist photographer. The film shows Tauqir as one of the thousands young men who disappeared since the onset of insurgency in the valley.

After an unsuccessful attempt to cross the border and reach Pakistan to become a militant, Rafiq returns home to an aimless existence.

“Harud” (Autumn) is competing with 16 other films from across the world. Bashir says he chose the festival circuit to reach to a much wider audience.

“For a film like this, it is difficult to find distributors… this is my way of reaching a wider audience. You can reach to the masses only if you are marketing the film properly. In my case, if I release the film in the metros with 10 or 15 prints, the number of people who will see it would be much less than those who see it in festivals.”

“Everywhere there would be audiences from different nationalities that won’t have knowledge about Kashmir. So, for me, festivals provide a wider audience. Of course, there are no monetary returns. As a first time filmmaker, this is the only way I can show it to more people,” said Bashir.

Bashir maintains that though he hasn’t lived in Kashmir in the last 20 years, he knows the place much better through his friends and those who are struggling even today.

“I have not tried to tell the story sentimentally at all. But the point is this is the story I know best because I am personally and emotionally affected. Though I have not lived in Kashmir in the last 20 years, my family is there, connections are there. This is the story I know well enough,” said Bashir.

Bashir is looking forward to release the film commercially some time next year.

Among other Indian films, short film “Khule Darwaze” (”Open Doors”) by debutant director Ashish Pandey and documentary “Inshallah, Football” by Ashvin Kumar will be screened in the Muhr Asia Africa category.

The line-up of other Indian movies at the gala include Malayalam director Shyamaprasad Rajagopal’s “Elektra”, Bengali filmmaker Aparna Sen’s “Iti Mrinalini”, Telugu filmmakers Krishna DK and Raj Nidimoru’s “Shor” and Tamil director Prabhu Solomon’s “Mynaa”.

The eight-day festival started Sunday and it will conclude Dec 19.

I’m Like a Parasite: Shahana Goswami

2010-12-14T02:18:00.000-08:00

Shahana Goswami, who plays Neil Nitin Mukesh’s love interest in their upcoming film “Tera Kya Hoga Johnny”, compares herself to a parasite and says she is at her best when her co-star is good.

“I’m like a parasite. If the actors that I am working with have good energy, I feed off it. My performance improves automatically and I am motivated even more to give it my best shot,” Shahana said over phone from Mumbai.

The actress says it was the same with Neil while shooting for Sudhir Mishra’s “Tera Kya Hoga Johnny”, releasing Dec 17.

“Neil was very supportive throughout the shooting. He is a very good actor and he knows his craft well. We hit it off instantly and it was very delightful to work with him in the film,” she added.

Shahana started off her acting career with theatre, before moving to the big screen with “Yun Hota Toh Kya Hota” in 2006. She appeared in a cameo in “Honeymoon Travels Pvt. Ltd”, after which she featured as the lead in “Ru Ba Ru”. But she rose to prominence only after playing Debbie in the 2008 hit “Rock On!!”.

Though she enjoys being part of ensemble cast movies, Shahana says she is definitely on the lookout for a meaty lead role.

“Every actor wants to do lead roles. But one has to associate with the characters that are offered. I think it is futile to do a lead role for the sake of doing it. So I believe in improving myself through ensemble films…god willing, time will bring a lead role with a good filmmaker, a good script and a good banner!

“There is no tangible reason why I am not doing lead roles. But I am quite optimistic that it will happen one day because a lot of new filmmakers are experimenting with stories and newcomers as well as unconventional faces. Who thought a film (’Wake Up Sid’) with Konkana (Sen Sharma) and Ranbir (Kapoor) would do so well? So I am ready to wait but won’t compromise on my image,” she added.

Shahana, who learned Odissi dance for a decade, laments that she hasn’t yet got any opportunity to showcase her dancing prowess on screen.

“Dance is in my blood and soul. But I haven’t got a chance to show any of it. I think a role like ‘Umrao Jaan’ would suit me best because the character is so constrained and simple. It is so meaningful, yet has all the quintessential elements of an actress and the dance is justified in every bit of the movie,” she said.

Of late, the actress has been trying to “regularise” and “discipline” her workout routine.

“As an actress, it is very important to present yourself well. So I am trying to get some regularity in my routine…I read, watch films, write and work out so that my mind and body remain active all the time.

“In my younger days, I used to be very physically active; so there was never an external need to go to the gym to stay fit. But over the years, I lost the consistency and became very lazy…but now I am trying to be regular.”

Does her fitness-conscious beau, former supermodel Milind Soman, push her for workouts every morning?

“Milind has been very supportive and encouraging, no doubt,” she said.

So do they plan to take their relationship to the next level?

“What’s the next level? I am quite settled down with Milind already. We are very comfortable with the relationship we share at present and we have not thought any further about it. We are not on the lookout for anything beyond what we share right now.”

In the meantime, she is also excited about her other forthcoming projects “Mirch”, “Game” and “Ra.One”.

Big B on Stage, But in An Unexpected Way

2010-12-06T04:22:00.000-08:00

Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan returns to the stage, albeit in a most unexpected way. He will play himself on stage in Mahesh Manjrekar’s Marathi play “Mi Shahrukh Manjarsumbekar” — but not in person.

Amitabh will be speaking to the play’s main protagonist played by Siddharth Jadhav, from a screen image which will be flashed at every performance of the play.

And since the play will be in the form of an ongoing political comment with the politics changing in every performance according to the current headlines, it looks like Big B has a long innings ahead on stage.

“You can say that,” laughed Manjrekar who returns to his first love, stage direction, with “Mi Shahrukh Manjarsumbekar”. “Amitji will be seen in a dialogue with the Siddharth Jadhav character who plays the common man. The politics will change. But the two characters played by Jadhav and Amitji will remain the same.”

The first staging of “Mi Shahrukh Manjarsumbekar” will focus on Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi’s comment during the Bihar election campaign to the effect that Maharashtra is prosperous today because of Biharis.

“It’s such divisive politics that my play will strive to criticise through the character of the common man. Amitji’s audio-visual will be the highlight of every show,” he said.

Interestingly, Big B has played a part in the movie version of “Mi Shahrukh Manjarsumbekar”. Titled “Struggler”, the movie that features Manjrekar as the common man is now ready for release five years after its completion.

“It’s a coincidence that the play and film are going to be out at the same time. The movie is very different from the play. I’ve made a lot of changes in the play. The play will have an ongoing commentary on current politics,” said Manjrekar.

Shahid, Priyanka on 'Koffee With Karan'!

2010-12-06T04:21:00.000-08:00

Filmmaker Karan Johar has actually managed to get Shahid Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra to make an appearance together on his chat show “Koffee With Karan”.

Karan wrote on microblogging site Twitter: “On my way to have a cup of ‘koffee’ with Shahid and Priyanka!!”

Rumours have long been doing the rounds about Shahid and Priyanka’s on-off relationship ever since the two rocked as a pair in “Kaminey”. So will their appearance on Karan’s chat show together put an end to the rumours surrounding their relationship status?

Priyanka Chopra Photos

I’m Doing a Movie With Aamir: Rani Mukerji

2010-12-06T04:19:00.000-08:00

Bollywood actress Rani Mukerji, who last shared screen space with Aamir Khan in 2005, will be seen opposite him yet again in Reema Katgi’s upcoming suspense drama.

“I am doing a film with Aamir. Over the years our chemistry will only get better, so it’ll be better in this film,” Rani told reporters here.

“For me its wonderful to work with Aamir and specially after so long because the last film I did with him was ‘Mangal Pandey: The Rising’ and over there also it was not a film based on us. But this one is more about us,” she added.

The 32-year-old also revealed that Aamir and Shah Rukh Khan were her favourite actors.

“Shah Rukh and Aamir have always been my favourites and I have learnt a lot from them in my professional pursuits and in my life. It is my great honour that I worked with them in such wonderful films. I can do anything for them,” she said.

The actress, who was last seen opposite Shah Rukh in a full fledged role in 2006’s “Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna”, said she wanted to work with him soon.

“I’m going to meet Shah Rukh and tell him that he better start a film with me soon because I’m missing working with him,” she said.

Rani_Mukerji Photo Gallery

Acting! Who Me? Never, Says Ram Gopal Varma

2010-12-06T04:14:00.000-08:00

Filmmaker, singer and now author Ram Gopal Varma has left no stone unturned to prove his versatility, but if there is one zone this daring man dreads to enter, it’s acting.

“I clamour whenever I see the camera (from the front) so there is no way that (acting) will happen. No. I will never act… ever,” Varma, 48, said over phone from Mumbai.

But that does leave scope for taking his singing debut further – he took to the mike to lend his voice to a song in the Telugu version of his two-part action-thriller “Rakta Charitra”.

“No, No, No, No. It was just for one of the songs for the movie, that is it. I’m not doing it again,” clarified Varma and pointed out, “And that was not there in the first part, but it is there in the second part.”

Released Friday, “Rakta Charitra – Part II” is a trilingual in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu. Not many might have noticed, the blunt and on-the- face speaking filmmaker also made a debut as a narrator with the Telugu version of part one and continues his stint in the second outing too.

Starring Vivek Oberoi in the lead as slain Andhra Pradesh leader Paritala Ravi, it marks the Bollywood debut of Tamil superstar Surya as his nemesis Suri. Shatrughan Sinha, Kota Srinivasa Rao and Radhika Apte also star in pivotal roles.

The firsts, however, don’t end here for Varma as the regular blogger and active Twitterati has also wielded the pen for what is being touted as an unconventional autobiography “Naa Ishtam” (”My Wish”) in Telugu.

“It is not really an autobiography. It is a collection of my thoughts and stories behind how my films got made and those kind of articles. There is a lot of new stuff in it,” he said.

If you thought this was it for the filmmaker – there’s more. Varma’s debuts don’t end until the self-confessed Sridevi fan directs the “goddess of beauty”.

“I’d love to direct Sridevi. There is no concrete subject that I have right now for her but that is something I have in the back of my mind,” said the director, who dedicated his Bollywood film “Rangeela” to the actress.

But has he approached her?

“No. Not really… Not yet.”

Talk of Varma and one can’t evade the most obvious question – his love-hate relationship with filmmaker Karan Johar.

“There is nothing between us. We are just making fun. There is nothing else,” he asserted.

But what about the constant potshots they take at each other?

“Let’s leave it now. It’s always the same answer I give and the same answer he gives and it comes out that we take potshots. We are bored to death with it now. Let’s finish this matter off,” he replied agitatedly.

Leaving everything aside, apart from his “affinity for hard hitting subjects” like crime, politics and horror, Varma is known for his expertise at simultaneously dabbling in multiple projects.

His platter as usual is full of “Phoonk 3″, “The Business Man”, “Department”, “God And Sex”, a remake of the Malayalam movie “Rajakeeyam” and two 3-D ventures of which one is titled “Amma”.

My Dream role is Kajol's Part in DDLJ: Deepika Padukone

2010-12-06T04:13:00.001-08:00

Deepika Padukone loves romantic movies and says her ultimate aim is to do what Kajol did in “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge” (DDLJ).

“I loved DDLJ and my dream role is Kajol’s role in that film,” said Deepika, who has done romantic comedies since her debut “Om Shanti Om” in 2007.

“‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge’ came at a time when I was growing up and watching a lot of Indian cinema. At that time parents used to oppose (lovers in the film) and the couple used to go all out to get together…but the parents were there to stop them. There was so much drama on screen. Song sequences were shot in Switzerland. I used to love it,” she added.

Deepika says she has enjoyed acting in romantic comedies like “Bachna Ae Haseeno”, “Chandni Chowk To China”, “Love Aaj Kal”, “Housefull” and the just released “Break Ke Baad” and relishes mushy stories.

“As audience I have always enjoyed watching rom-coms which is why even as an actor I enjoy doing love stories,” she said.

But for Ashutosh Gowariker’s just released “Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey”, the 24-year-old has taken a departure from her routine genre to play freedom fighter Kalpana Dutta, who was a part of the Chittagong uprising of the 1930s.

“I accepted the role primarily because I was getting a chance to work with Ashutosh Gowariker. Who wouldn’t want to work with him? Secondly, I felt the subject was not given too much importance as part of our history books. So as an actor it was a different challenge to be able to educate the audience about a pertinent revolution for Indian independence,” Deepika said.

She sports two braids, simple saris and an almost no make-up look for the film; yet she feels her look is quite glamorous in its own way.

“I don’t think this look is any less glamorous. I think the sari is the most glamorous and sensuous dress for women…which is why I chose to wear a sari over a dress for the Cannes Film Festival.”

Deepika will now be on a short break from shooting before she returns to the grind for “Desi Boyz”, starring Akshay Kumar and John Abraham.

She also hopes to have a joyous Christmas and New Year.

“I like spending time with friends and family. I like taking short breaks every four-six months to unwind. Now in December, I will automatically get a break because it is holiday season with Christmas and New Year! The industry itself slows down a bit for a couple of weeks; so I think I will get a well-deserved break,” she said.

Deepika Padukone Photo Gallery

Sonam on Punjabi Shopping Spree

2010-12-06T04:06:00.000-08:00

Fashionista Sonam Kapoor, who has been shooting for Pankaj Kapoor’s “Mausam” in Patiala, couldn’t help but go on a shopping spree.

“Last day in Patiala… bought beautiful mojris, patiala salwars, phulkari dupattas and parandas, great craftsmanship here…,” Sonam posted on Twitter.

Though she sports a lot of high-end international labels, street shopping is also quite Sonam’s cup of tea.

She laments that a lot of Indian crafts are taking a backseat.

“Local artisans are extremely talented. But a lot of the local crafts like phulkari embroidery are dying. It’s really sad because their work is so fine and beautiful.”

Sonam Kapoor Photo Gallery

Kites Movie Review

2010-05-21T05:01:00.000-07:00

Film: Kites
Rating: 2.5/5
Banner: Filmkraft Productions (I) Pvt Ltd
Cast: Hrithik Roshan, Kangna Ranaut, Barbara Mori, Kabir Bedi, Nick Brown, Yuri Suri
Music: Rajesh Roshan
Cinematography: Ayananka Bose
Director: Anurag Basu
Producers: Rakesh Roshan, Sunaina Roshan
Release Date: May 21, 2010

It is with great hype and hoopla that the film ‘Kites’ has been promoted and more so, for its steamy kissing sequences and nude shots. How worthy was it? Let us see..

Story
Jai (Hrithik) is about to get engaged to Gina (Kangana), the beautiful daughter of a very powerful casino owner Bob (Kabir). Things change after Jai sees Natasha (Barbara) and it is love at first sight. However, trouble also begins there since Natasha is the fiancée of Tony (Nick), Gina’s brother. What happens to Jai’s love story? Is he successful or not forms the rest of the tale.

Performances
Hrithik Roshan provides full oxygen to the film and his screen presence, performance, dance are very good. However, it is his character which has been carved weakly making it a letdown.

Barbara is beautiful and she has done her bit with ease though few sequences made her look stiff. Her body language was positive but she could have worked on emotional expressions.

Nick Brown does a good job and he makes his presence felt despite the hype of the lead pair.

Kabir Bedi was brief, Yuri Suri was alright, the others didn’t have much to offer except fill the screen.

Positives:
Cinematography
Hrithik and Barbara

Set Backs:
Overflowing Spanish dialogues accompanied by sub titles in Devnagari script!!!
No spirit in the movie
Weak story line and weaker characterizations
Everything else as well…….

Analysis
The film banks heavily on the star power, exotic locales and exceptional cinematography but then the makers have yet again committed a fundamental blunder.

The essence of any film is its story and how it connects to the audience. Things get sensitive when it is a love story so all want a heart tender experience rather than a visually filling feast.

So while the film has scored on aspects like locations, action sequences, cinematography etc, it failed to work in script, screenplay, dialogues or editing. The entire pace of the film is slow and it must be said that the narrative was quite shallow. It is not until the second half that the film doesn’t pick up the speed and here is the debatable part, the climax. Perhaps the ending of the film would be met with a diverse kind of reactions.

At the box office, the film will get remarkable openings due to the star power and the hype. But it fails to sync with audience’s interest and hence it is going to sink. Kites fly with control of threads that touch the ground. This movie ‘Kites’ lose that control as it left the ground realities with broken threads in narration.

Bottom-line: Broken threads make Kites fall down

Rann Movie Review

2010-02-02T07:30:00.000-08:00

Movie: Rann
My Rating: 3/5
Story: Rohit Banawlikar
Art: Aparna Sud
Cinematography: Amit Roy
Editor: Nipun Gupta
Sound: Debasish Mishra
Producer: Sheetal Vinod Talwar & Madhu Mantena
Direction: Ram Gopal Varma
Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Ritesh Deshmukh, Paresh Rawal, Mohnish Behl., Suchitra Krishnamurthy, Rajat Kapoor, Gul Panag, Neetu Chandra, Rajpal Yadav, Sudeep, Rahul Pendkalkar etc
Release Date: 29th Jan 2010

Review

Story:

Vijay Harshavardhan Malik (Amitabh Bachchan) is the owner of ‘India 24x7’ Channel. He is very idealistic in thought and action. He believes that media is responsible for people in every aspect. He believes only in reporting and educating than sensationalizing and gossiping. His main competitor is another channel ‘Headlines 24’ whose MD is Amreesh Kakkar (Mohnish Behl).

Vijay’s son Jay Malik (Sudeep), a hyper sensitive personality, is a contrast to his father and his love interest in Yasmeen (Neetu Chandra). He tries to grow big earning huge bucks through the channel.

Mohan Pande (Paresh Rawal), the opposition party leader conspires to dethrone the ruling PM Hoodda by using top two channels India 24x7 and Headlines 24.

How badly the family of channel head effect with that conspiracy? How selfishness of politicians, channel owners and their family members ruin the society. How channels are using the instincts of people to make money? That forms rest of the story.

Performances:

Every artiste needs highest possible commendation.

Sudeep excelled as hyper sensitive guy. Neetu marveled with glamour and also with little scope for performance she was given.

Ritesh has underplayed while Amitabh has shown his thespian talent with impressive histrionics in the climax.

Paresh Rawal brought some laughs and Raj Pal Yadav many. Suchitra is sufficient in CEO’s role while Mohnish Behl did his best as competitor to Amitabh.

Technically the movie is another master piece. Music directors are many- Dharmaraj Bhatt, Sandeep Patil, Jayesh Gandhi, Bapi, Tutul, Sanjeev Kohli, Amar Mohile but still all compositions stand on par with each other with similar tone and note! But there are no great numbers those haunt till audience reach home.

Final Analysis:

It’s too much of preaching.

Generally ‘Varmaism’ is known for less dialogue and more action. But here it’s out of religion. It’s verbose. This movie is just for media people on media. Hence they get connected to this. But the preaching part may appeal only for a few.

It has ample stuff to learn by aspiring directors and cinematographers as it is another good text book for

shot composition,
single shot making, and
usage of steady camera,
optimal utilization of digital elements,
lighting,
background score and
sound mixing.
But it may not entertain general audience. The theme chosen and executed is too heavy and concentrated. Above all it’s verbose and indoctrinating at the climax.

First half of the movie runs in pace with introduction of characters and their characterization with some story that moves ahead. Interval bang boosts up some interest and second half goes in similar plane and pace.

It’s a movie made with right motive but the narration sounds too idealistic. The two positive characters Poorab (Ritesh) and Vijay Malik (Amitabh) sound completely Utopian in their ideologies and approach which wouldn’t connect audience to reality. The script should have projected intelligence of these two protagonists than sincerity, patriotism etc. Thus, director missed ‘brain act’ in this and played only on ‘morals and ethics’.

On a whole it’s a sensible movie but the impact that it shows on media will be nil. The entertainment it gives for general audience wouldn’t fit the bill.

Source: Greatandhra

Veer Movie Review

2010-01-22T01:23:00.000-08:00

Movie: Veer
My Rating: 3/5
Music: Sajid-Wajid
Story: Salman Khan
Lyrics: Gulzar
Cinematography: Gopal Shah
Action: Tinu Verma
Costume Designer: Anna Singh
Producer: Vijay Galani
Direction: Anil Sharma
Cast: Salman Khan, Zarine Khan, Sohail Khan, Jackie Shroff, Mithun Chakraborty, Gita Soto, Aryan Vaid, Lisa Lazarus etc
Release Date: 22nd Jan 2010

Review

Story:

The story of the film 'Veer' is based on a love story between Pindari soldier and Rajasthani Princess in the backdrop of war of independence.

Salman Khan plays a character of brave Pindari soldier named Veer. The Pindari community prefers death over dishonour and fights till last breath.

Zarine, who looks a like Katrina, plays the role of princess Yashodhara, who falls in love with Veer.

The movie starts with the colonial India of British rule. The Kings of India fall prey to Britishers' divide and rule policy. But there is a community, who proffered death to save the independence.

Set in colonial India, the film encapsulates a period when the British enslaved India with their divide and rule policy and kings and nawabs fell for it, except for the Pindaris who preferred death to dishonour and fought till their last breath. Salman plays one of the bravest and strongest Pindari soldiers named Veer.

As Veer takes on the might of the British Empire, he also has to fight the conniving King of Madavgarh as well as his own jealous tribesmen. The stakes are high as he has to avenge his father's dishonour as well as get over the hurdles in love as he romances princess Yashodhara, the daughter of his sworn enemy.

Shot extensively in Rajasthan, it is a story of bravery, treachery and love.

Also shot in Britain, it is also the first Bollywood film to be shot in the premises of Buckingham Palace.

Despite having the facility of special effects, the film also boasts of using thousands of real horses and other animals for authenticity.

You must watch Veer for to know at what cost Salman fight, at stake is his love for princess Yashodhara, daughter of his sworn enemy or at stake is his thirst to avenge his father's dishonour.

The movie start with a bang but becomes slow in the middle. Everything is going in the favour of Salman Khan's dream project but at last the movie turns out in a mess.

Sajid-wajid music is excellent. The Song "Surili ankhion..." is the most melodious song.

Overall, VEER may open nicely at box office at many theaters due to Salman’s fans and his promotions may also create a good weekend for the movie, but given its excessive costs & pitiable qualities, VEER will face difficulties to recover its costs. This movie is a epic dissatisfaction for Salman Khan’s fans.

Zarine Khan Photo Gallery

Winners List of Stardust Awards 2010

2010-01-19T02:38:00.000-08:00

The Max Stardust Awards 2010 was held at the Bandra Kurla Complex, Mumbai.
The glittering ceremonies award night saw a host of Bollywood celebrities.
Chintuji was surprise winner of the Best Film while Preity Zinta pocketted the Best Actress Award for Videsh. Ranjit Kapoor won the Best Director Award for Chintuji. The winners in various categories are as follows:

Superstar of Tomorrow – Male
Ranbir Kapoor – Wake Up Sid & Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani

Breakthrough Performance — Male
Abhimanyu Singh – Gulaal

Breakthrough Performance— Female
Shahana Goswami – Firaaq

Stardust Awards 2010, Stardust Awards 2010 News, Bollywood cinema news, Bollywood Events,

Hottest Film of the Year
Love Aaj Kal

Hottest New Director
Ayaan Mukherjee – Wake Up Sid

Exciting New Face
Jacqueline Fernandez – Aladin

Best Actress
Preity Zinta – Videsh

Best Film
Chintuji

Best Director
Ranjit Kapoor – Chintuji

READERS CHOICE AWARDS

Dream Director
Imtiaz Ali – Love Aaj Kal

Best Film of the Year —Comedy
All The Best

Best Film of the Year —Action/Thriller
Wanted

Best Film of the Year—Drama
3 Idiots

Star of the Year — Male
Amitabh Bachchan – Paa

Star of the Year —Female
Kareena Kapoor – Kurbaan & 3 Idiots

Best Actor In a Supporting Role
Abhishek Bachchan
– Paa

Best Actress In a Supporting Role
Kirron Kher – Kurbaan

Best Actor In a Comedy Role
Ajay Devgn – All The Best

Best Actor – Popular
Akshay Kumar – Blue

Best Actress – Popular
Katrina Kaif – New York, Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani

Stardust Awards 2010 Photo Gallery

2010-01-19T02:36:00.000-08:00

Sridevi Family at Stardust Awards 2010

2010-01-19T02:34:00.000-08:00

3 Idiots Movie Reivew

2009-12-24T21:28:00.000-08:00

Moive: 3 Idiots
Jeevi rating: 4/5
Punchline: all izz well
Banner: Vidhu Vinod Chopra Productions
Genre: Social
Cast: Aamir Khan
, Kareena Kapoor, R Madhavan, Sharman Joshi, Boman Irani
Music: Shantanu Moitra
Cinematography: C.K. Muraleedharan
Editing: Ranjeet Bahadur & Rajkumar Hirani
Story - dialogues: Rajkumar Hirani & Abhijit Joshi
Screenplay: Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Rajkumar Hirani & Abhijit Joshi
Director: Rajkumar Hirani
Producer: Vidhu Vinod Chopra
Release date: 25 December 2009
Review

Story
Rancho (Amir Khan), Farhan (Madhavan) and Raju (Sharman Joshi) are classmates in a premiere engineering college in India. They are from different backgrounds (one ultra rich, one middle class and another poor economic background). Dean Viru (Boman Irani) is a follows a strict regime and believes in putting peer pressure on students. Rancho is of opinion that students should never chase grades, but they should love what they are doing. The rest of the story is all about how Rancho makes a difference to his friends and proves that the dean is wrong.

Actors:
Aamir Khan looks like a teenager with young outlook. R Madhavan is good as a student who has his heart set elsewhere. Sharman Joshi is a perfect fit for a guy from poverty-stricken family. Kareena Kapoor’s role is little passive in the movie and she is good. She looks little elder to Aamir Khan. Boman Irani has done a character that has striking similarities to that of his character in Munnabhai MBBS. The guy who did the role of NRI is cool.

Technical departments:

Story - screenplay – direction: The story of this movie has roots in Chetan Bhagat’s first novel ‘Five Point Someone’ – a semi-biographical book set in the backdrop of IIT. Raj Kumar Hirani and Abhijit Joshi have taken the basic gist and a few instances from the book and penned a fresh story. Screenplay of the movie is refreshing with spaced flashback narration. You will have something to look forward to in the entire movie. Direction is excellent. I have read ‘Five Point Someone’ and loved it. The only part in the book I didn’t like is the procedure they go through when the steal the question paper from dean’s office. Thankfully, the director modified it to make it look simple.

The following parts are retained from the book –

1. Three different backgrounds for each of three students.
2. Hero falling in love with dean’s daughter.
3. References to death of Dean’s son.
4. Poor student trying to commit suicide and breaking his legs

Characterization changes compared to the book

1. Hari (Rancho) character is completely modified. The entire book is written from Hari’s point of view. In the movie, the remaining two characters narrate the story of Rancho (Hari).
2. Ryan (Farhan) character is completely changed. Ryan is a man who is into alcohol and grass. Whereas Farhan has a passion for photography in the movie. And his passion is to become a wildlife photographer. But he joined engineering college to satisfy his parents. Alok (Raju) character is kept intact in the movie.
3. Professor’s daughter character is cut down.

The refreshing changes in story –

1. The interval episode is excellent.
2. Baby delivery episode is amazing.
3. The final scene between NRI and Aamir Khan is superb.
4. The relationship between heroine and her brand-crazy materialistic beau is developed very well.

Here are the best scenes in the movie –

1. Aamir Khan intro episode where he replies to the ragging senior.
2. Aamir Khan asking why astronauts can’t use pencil and Boman Irani replying to it towards the climax.
3. The entire sequences of showing Sharman’s family episodes in black & white color.
4. The way Madhavan convinces his parents.
5. Hindi speech episode by NRI student makes you laugh uncontrollably (thanx to the funny usage of balatkar and sthan).
6. The style in which Sharman replies to the questions in the interview
7. The methods used by Aamir to make injured Sharman as a normal guy.
8. The baby delivery episode
9. The climax episode of NRI meeting the scientist.

The director seems to be still having in the hangover of Munnabhai MBBS

1. Boman Irani characterization is similar (he plays professor in both the movies) and hero falls in love with professor’s daughter in both the movies.
2. The hospital scenes (baby delivery and sharman’s hospitalization) have similar tone in both the movies.
3. If Munnabhai 1 & 2 professed Jaadu Ki jhappi and Gandhigiri, 3 Idiots comes up with another philosophy of ‘all is well’.

Other technical departments: Cinematography CK Muraleedharan is excellent. Music by Shantanu Moitra sound average when you listen and watch the promos, but it sounds very good in the movie because of well-conceived songs and their proper placement. Editing is very good. You don’t find the movie lengthy though the runtime is almost 3 hours. Dialogues are witty as well as thought-provoking.

Analysis: 3 Idiots is a movie that has both entertainment
and sentiment mixed in the right proportions. It is also a message oriented film and it gives the message with nice entertainment. All the alumni of engineering colleges will have a nostalgic moment in the movie as we can identify ourselves with one character among there three idiots (for me, it reminded me of my BITS Pilani days). People in the theatre were clapping after the movie is finished and it shows the kind of impact 3 Idiots has it on it’s viewers. On a whole, ‘3 Idiots’ is a wonderful film and I recommend it to everybody.

Tailpiece:

My observation of the works of Chetan Bhagat: I never completed reading any novel in English (except for The Alchemist) till I got my hands on ‘Five Point Someone’. Chetan Bhagat's simple and plain English makes it a pleasant reading for people who are not used to read English fiction. I loved the entire book of Five Point Someone except for the episode that follows after stealing question paper. I also liked ‘One Night at the call centre’. The only thing I didn’t connect with that book is the episode of accident. It took me a while to complete ‘3 mistakes of my life’. I had to forcibly read one chapter a day. I recently bought ‘2 states’ and read the half of the book very interestingly. Book i stopped reading it after completing 75% of it. I am not interested in reading that book anymore. It is hightime for Chetan Bhagat to come up with an interesting book next time as the quality is going down gradually in his works.

Source: Idlebrain

Hot Sexy Beauty Hurts Knees

2009-08-30T06:38:00.000-07:00

She is known for her endearing smile and though she hails from Bollywood, she stole few hearts with her presence in Telugu movie as well. She is none other than Ameesha Patel and right now, she has transformed from a girl next door to a luscious and seductive bombshell.

Incidentally, Ameesha has gone a lot into fitness and this time, she seems to have taken it a bit far. There is news from Mumbai that the pretty girl was spinning excessively and this has damaged her knees. Though she is going through her physiotherapy, she has been doing her share of workouts carefully.

While her personal trainer has reportedly stated that Ameesha is responding well and is getting treated, the concern about her knees is said to be still there. Let us hope that this delicate beauty has not knocked off her knees and is able to get back to her routine soon. Get well Ameesha!!!

Source: Greatandhra

Salman Khan on his role in Wanted Movie

2009-08-19T21:23:00.001-07:00

Salman you have done the action all by yourself in WANTED. Are you satisfied with the final result?
I am quite satisfied, as I have gone through a lot of training for this film and have stretched myself a lot. May it be dancing or action, I needed the training, and the outcome of it has been good, according to me. on going to any extent for the publicity of their film. What is your comment on that?
Sorry I could not hear you… (Ever-diplomatic Sallu just refused to answer this question)

What is the reason for taking up this film?
The reason for taking up WANTED was the script and the jazba of working hard in it. Now if the film does not work, then I will stop working hard. As I know I have worked hard for this movie and believe that this is one of the best.

Your characters name Radhe Mohan, is the same as it was in your previous film Tere Naam. What similarity do these two characters have?
In Tere Naam, Radhe was a college boy who was hit badly and he goes mad at the end, but here Radhe is a man and no body can even touch him, as it will be very easy for him to bury them underground.

Can you elaborate on your character in the film?
I essay the role of a contract killer in the film, and if somebody gives a supari on your name I will kill you also (grins).

Asin was originally cast in this film. What was the reason of replacing her with Ayesha Takiya?
We wanted Ayesha so we cast her in the film, and come on guys she was getting married too and so we were planning to release this film before her marriage. Asin got her share in London Dreams toh humne setting karli hai…

How different is this film from its Telugu version?
In this film there is humor, and different kind of action keeping in mind our audiences. It’s not the ditto copy of the Telugu version, but we have our own inputs too, which sets this film apart from the South movie.

This film has a lot of action and so did Ghajini, which was full with loads of action? So do you think this film will work on the same lines?
Ghajini worked not because of its action, but because of its romance. I have seen it and liked it also, but it was a different story altogether. This film is hero centric, and you will feel that I would like to be like Radhe Mohan after coming out of the theatre.

You have sung the song in WANTED. How was your experience?
It was like I was just dubbing some lines for the song, when suddenly the idea of singing the full song popped up in my mind. Sajid and Wajid took my voice to the studio, put some masala and presented it. So if you like the song you know the story behind my voice. (Laughs)

Kagna ranaut Single now

2009-06-11T02:08:00.001-07:00

Its official now, Kangna Ranaut has said goodbye to her boyfriend Adhyayan Suman. In reality this was one relation that was not happening, initially Adhyayan was insistent that the lady act only with him in her forthcoming movies. Kangna lost some major projects because of this. In an escape route she also signed a Telugu movie.

Then dad Shekar Suman interfered too much in the relationship and tried to dictate terms to Adhyayan and Kangna. All this has ultimately brought to an end the relationship between the two actors.

It is now believed that Kagna is looking forward to a new relationship and she has signaled her single status to all. She is also very positive about her new projects.

Mandira Bedi in Demand

2009-06-11T02:06:00.000-07:00

Mandira Bedi resurfaced in India after her IPL stint in South Africa. The actress was spotted in Chennai inaugurating a Tommy Hilfiger showroom. The media which was very much present on the occasion asked the lady about her new short hair cut during the IPL.

The actress replied that she has this cut for a new look, but she would soon grow back her hair as she is much in demand in films again and the producers and directors of these films want her with her long hair-do.

News is also that she would do a sexy item number in one of her forthcoming films.

Sizziling beauty Shriya and Arya romancing?

2009-06-11T02:05:00.000-07:00

Before your mind takes off to a controversial mode, here is the truth. We are talking about the sizzling beauty Shriya and the ’Nenu Devudni’ fame Arya who have paired up for their new Tamil film ’Chikku Bukku’. It is heard that the duo was romancing for the film in some really picturesque locations in Austria and it has come out really well. The film is likely to be dubbed in Telugu as per inside sources but then a formal confirmation is awaited on this one.

Genelia’s mini skirt

2009-06-11T02:04:00.000-07:00

Genelia’s micromini caused problems of traffic jams when huge crowds assembled to see her in the sexy avatar in Mumbai. All this happened when the young lady was shooting for the promo of her upcoming film with Shahid Kapoor.

Apparently, the actress stepped out onto the roads in her micromini in the hope that no one would notice, but this is India, as soon as people saw her in this attire, they started crowding her, and the entire plac,e to have a look at the beautiful thighs.

It took a lot of time to shoo away the curious onlooker, only then could the photo-shoot be completed.

Dare Devil Stunts In 'Wanted'

2009-05-24T02:41:00.000-07:00

Dance choreographer and actor turned director Prabhu Deva directed film ‘Wanted’ is gearing up for completion. The film is the remake of the blockbuster film in Tamil as well as Telugu titled ‘Pokiri’. The film is reported to have hair-raising stunts, the filming for which recently took place in Bangkok.

The stunt director for this film is Vijayan. The stunt scene shot was a duel between a couple of female boxers from Thailand and a crowd of spectators watching the fight. ‘Wanted’ is being produced by Sahara One Motion Pictures and Boney Kapoor.

'Wanted’ is getting ready for a July release and the post production works are going on in full swing.

The film deals with a gang of goons battling and finally good pervading over evil. There are also unexpected twists in the film which is being eagerly awaited by Salman fans.

The film sees Salman Khan in the lead role with Ayesha Takia playing is heroine. The music for the film is by Sajid-Wajid. The film also features south Indian artist Prakash Raj. It was Prakash Raj who played villain in the Tamil version.

Bollywood Actress Hot Photos

Megan Fox shoots for a raunchy 10 minute video

2009-05-07T20:12:00.001-07:00

Megan Fox has shot for a sultry home video for the latest movie edition of Esquire magazine. Shot by photographer Greg Williams with a hi-tech RedONE camera, which boasts “four times the resolution of hi-def images”, the “Transformers” star has shot for ten minutes of a loosely scripted footage that include getting out of bed, rolling around on a pool chair and lighting a barbecue, reports the Daily Mail online.

“It allowed her to act. She could run scenes without being reminded by the sound of a shutter every four seconds that I was taking a picture,” said Williams. Williams has turned the footage into a mini-film called “Good Morning, Megan Fox”

Akshay, Kareena to walk red carpet with Stallone at Cannes

2009-05-07T20:10:00.000-07:00

Akshay Kumar and Kareena Kapoor, the lead pair of “Kambakht Ishq”, are all set to walk the red carpet with Sylvester Stallone at the Cannes Film Festival starting May 13. The Hollywood action star makes a guest appearance in the actioner.

Stallone has been making inquiries about the release of the film. When informed of producer Sajid Nadiadwala`s Cannes plan, he agreed as he is said to be extremely fond of both Akshaya and Kareena.

“Is he? That`s flattering. When in my early years I was working in Bangkok, I had three posters in my room - that of Sridevi, Bruce Lee and Sylvester Stallone,” Akshay chuckled, talking to reporters.

Kareena, who is in New York right now, said: “It would be lovely to walk the red carpet with Sylvester Stallone. How many of our actors would get that privilege?”

Brandon Routh and Denise Richards also make guest appearances in the movie, which is expected to hit the screens soon

Bollywood Actress Photos

Hansika drank milk in a pub!

2009-05-07T20:08:00.000-07:00

The teenage heartthrob Hansika Motwani may have acted in the film Desamuduru but by no means is she one. Hansika claims that she is still a teenager. The exact age of Hansika is not known but it continues to generate interest among the film buffs.

Haniska claimed that she drank milk at a pub. Now one may wonder at the claim as anyone who goes to a pub will surely prefer a drink and even if one is a teetotaler, one would prefer a soft drink of a fruit juice. But Milk? No Way!

But Hansika was forced to this by director Puri Jagannath, Mehar Ramesh and Allu Arjun some time back. The occasion was Hansika’s birthday and the three arranged for a special birthday party for her in a pub. They arranged milk for the birthday baby and she obliged them by drinking it. Haniska recollected this prank played by the three fondly while interacting with some media personnel the other day.

Hansika Hot Photos

Nude???!! Me??!! No-No

2009-05-07T20:06:00.000-07:00

The nude news of Kangana Ranaut at last ended up as a gossip. From the past few weeks there has been a big surge in media about the possible nude scene of Kangna Ranaut in Puri Jagannath’s ‘Ek Niranjan’. But that was condemned by Kangana when she was asked by a Mumbai media.

Many in Mumbai wondered how Kangana can show nude in a Telugu film when she didn’t do that so easily for Hindi movies. Kangana gave clarification saying, “I heard about this gossip. Puri is very dignified person in Tollywood and he too is getting many calls from journalists enquiring about it. I never pose nude. Even in Raaz 2 I was covered with a body tight costume before getting into bath tub. But that was promoted as nude. I posed for a few stills for Ek Niranjana and in fact they are very hot as I toned up my body and muscles exclusively for that shoot. And coming to the nude aspect again, I never pose nude. My family members are very traditional and they would bring me back to Himachal Pradesh if I cross my limits. I would never compromise on nudity whatever be the number of zeroes in my cheque”.

Well, that’s a clear clarification from the heroine whose gossip was spread like wild fire.

Kangana Ranaut Hot Photos

Bipasha Basu’s Skirt Drops While Performing

2009-04-13T23:42:00.000-07:00

Ever since Bipasha Basu’s performance in the hit song Beedi Jalailye from Omkara, the actress has been in great demand for live performances. Recently Bipasha paid tribute to the music of the 70s at a music awards ceremony. She was all set to enthrall the audience with her performance when she had a wardrobe malfunction with her skirt and the prop that she was planning to use, said a source. “

This happened not once but thrice. The actress felt helpless since it was all happening at the last minute. Despite these problems, Bipasha did not let it hamper her performance. The actress had to change her costume in between dances but she took it all in her stride. She carried the entire show with grace without giving a hint that she was upset with the costumes,” added the source.

Bipasha Basu Hot Photos

Aishwarya loses to Mani Ratnam

2009-04-13T23:39:00.000-07:00

As everybody knows, Mani Ratnam is a perfectionist. He never sits content till he gets the desired result from a shot. Recently, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan came to know of it the hard way, according to a source. Ash has been shooting for Mani's bilingual in Tamil and Hindi, tentatively titled Ravan.

In the second half of the film, Ash is playing a grief-stricken woman, and Mani wanted his leading leady to be make up-less so as to portray her role well. The sources say, Ash was not happy with the demands made by the director and whenever possible, she tried to put on a basic make up. But, most of the time, she was caught red-handed by the director and was asked to remove them!

Aishwarya Rai Photo Gallery

Deepika talks about the mystery man

2009-04-13T23:37:00.000-07:00

In this dark phase of Bollywood, where there’s no new film releasing due to the ongoing strike, the cover photo of Deepika Padukone in the latest issue of M, comes as a breath of fresh air.

The Om Shanti Om girl gives an insight of what the real-life Deepika is all about! Deepika talks about her ‘normal’ childhood, that ’special man’ (not Ranbir) who never failed to impress her even once (and no it’s not Ranbir). Well, read on more to find Deepika’s take on sexy woman, arm candy, money, fame and yes the ’secret of being sexy’.

If you really want to know the difference between the ‘reel-life’ Deepika and the ‘real-life’ Deepika, then, this issue of M is a Must.

Deepika Padukone Hot Photo Gallery

Saif-Kareena red hot in ‘Agent Vinod’

2009-04-08T04:34:00.000-07:00

Now that Kareena Kapoor is finally going to be part of Saif Ali Khan’s production plans no stone is being left unturned to ensure her presence is justified in the Khan-produced venture. Apparently in the beginning the leading lady’s role in Agent Vinod was relatively less substantial than Saif’s.

Says a source, “In fact Kareena wasn’t sure she wanted to do Agent Vinod because the title clearly indicated whom the film belonged to. But Saif convinced Kareena that her role would be on a par with his. Then he convinced Sriram with whom Saif has a deep rapport since they did Ek Hasina Thi together to make sure Kareena’s presence in the film is justified.”

Quiz Kareena about this, and she laughs, “Do you think I’d agree to be part of the film if my role was not as exciting as Saif? I mean, can you imagine what would happen? Saif and I will be smouldering-hot in Agent Vinod. Even the posters will be designed to highlight us as the coolest hot pair.”

Clearly, after Rensil d’Silva’s terrorist drama in which Saif and Kareena look and act very real the pair is in no mood to get into the authentic space once again.

But here’s where the problem sets in. While Kareena and Saif are looking to do a high-gloss big-budget espionage thriller director Sriram Raghavan is looking at making a gritty life-like spy drama.

Says Raghavan, “I grew up watching those really filmy spy films like Farz, Aankhen, Yakeen and of course the Rajshris’ Agent Vinod. I’ve been fascinated by the genre. However times have changed and so have definitions of espionage. My film will occupy a more real space.”

He admits his spy drama will be more in the mood of Mani Shankar’s recent Mukhbir than the old Agent Vinod . At the same time Raghavan admits the high budget of the new-age Agent Vinod forbids any over experimentation, “I’ve never worked on this kind of a budget before. And I can’t afford to be experimental. The market has to be kept in mind. So there will be music and songs. But no lip sync songs.”

With Saif wanting to be Tom Cruise and Kareena looking as hot as Nicole Kidman in his arms Sriram Raghavan could be heading for more excitement than he bargained for when he starts shooting in July.

Kareena Kapoor Photo Gallery

Hrithik To Take Divorce From Wife?

2009-04-08T04:31:00.000-07:00

Hrithik Roshan and Susanne Khan are known for loving relationship in Bollywood and they are inspiring couple for many. They have married inter religious and living happily in the eyes of all. But suddenly Hrithik developed love for another actress Barbara Mori, who is his co star in the film ‘Kites’.

The affair turned very strong that Hrithik is spending most of his time only with her. Sources say that Hrithik is not in good terms with Susanne from quite long time and both are not moving together in public places as well. Susanne freshly walked out from Hrithik along with children and started staying at her mothers’ place. But when everybody on enquire said that some renovations are being made at Hrithik’s house and hence she shifted. But the close sources revealed that Barbara Mori is the reason for the split of Hrithik and Susanne.

Hrithik spent pleasant nights with Barbara Mori at Amby Valley in Lonavala as well, say another sources.

We have to see where this ends.

Bollywood Actress Photos

Bipasha, Kareena, Priyanka are Bollywood’s bikini girls

2009-04-08T04:28:00.000-07:00

Not everyone can carry off a bikini well. In Bollywood, Kareena Kapoor, Bipasha Basu and Priyanka Chopra are the stars who do it with panache thanks to their attitude and confidence, say fashion experts.

While Kareena wore a lemon bikini for ’Tashan’ and became the talk of the town for her size zero, Priyanka slipped into a sexy golden swimsuit for ’Dostana’.

’Kareena and Priyanka carried off their bikini act in their respective movies pretty well because they had the right attitude and confidence to carry off the two-piece with aplomb. They were sure of their bodies as well as the way they were looking on the camera,’ ace photographer Dabboo Ratnani told IANS over phone from Mumbai.

’Both of them have great bodies and are neither too thin, nor too plump. They have perfect voluptuous bodies which looked perfect in the bikini,’ he added. According to Mumbai-based celebrity designer Gavin Miguel, Bipasha rocked the big screen when she wore a bikini in ’Dhoom 2’.

’Bipasha really took the audience by surprise with her bikini act in the movie. She looked hot, sexy and very confident. The best part about her is that she has got a well-proportioned body and so a two-piece looks good on her,’ said Miguel.

’Priyanka too has the oomph factor. Even though she is not that tall, the way she looks and carries her swimsuit is commendable. You just can’t take your eyes off her,’ he added.

The two-piece beach wear, which turns 63 this year, was invented by Jacques Heim and Louis Reard in 1946. The designer duo named it after the Bikini Atoll in the Marshall Islands, the site of the atomic bomb testing.

As far as Bollywood is concerned, the bikini has surely come of age over the years with actresses opening up to the idea of wearing sexy swimsuits on screen. In 1958, Nutan took the Hindi film industry by storm when she wore the swimming costume in ’Dilli Ka Thug’. Her colleagues like Saira Banu and Vyjayanthimala too scorched the silver screen when they slipped into the costume for ’April Fool’ and ’Sangam’ respectively.

Later, Bollywood beauties like Sharmila Tagore, Zeenat Aman and Parveen Babi dared to wear the two-piece on screen, but actresses after them shied away from the swimsuit. However, Dimple Kapadia, who slipped into the two-piece for Raj Kapoor’s ’Bobby’, wore it again for her comeback film ’Sagar’.

Now, it is no more taboo and actresses like Bipasha, Neha Dhupia, Minissha Lamba and Amisha Patel have carried off tiny two-pieces with confidence. Miguel also feels these actresses should be applauded as they have overcome the hypocritical mindset of society and proved that even a two-piece suit can be carried with grace if you have the body and confidence.

Ratnani points out that photographers too play a pivotal role in deciding how a bikini looks on a woman.

’The persons shooting these actresses play a pivotal role because if they don’t bring in their creative aesthetics together to click their pictures, the result could be disastrous. A photographer or a camera person can either make a picture or scene look natural, classy or vulgar,’ Ratnani stressed.

’Small things like light arrangements, right lenses, background location and camera angles also play an important role in bringing out the best from these beauties,’ he added. According to photographer Jatin Kampani, there should also be a ’comfort level’ between the actresses and the camera person shooting her in a swim-suit.

’While shooting a female in a bikini, one should have a great rapport with that person. She has to share a comfort level with the photographer … only then there would be no inhibitions and she too will be comfortable on screen,’ Kampani explained.

Kampani said that he would never recommend clicking an actress in a bikini if she is not in shape.

’She will look awful,’ he exclaimed.

Kampani has no Bollywood favourites but says most of them have got great bodies. ’But the most important factor is how effortlessly they carry their two piece. Not everyone can carry it with aplomb. One has to be comfortable with one’s body; only then things do magic on screen.’

Bollywood Actress Photos

Miss. Sexy Controversy Queen Of 2009

2009-04-08T04:23:00.000-07:00

It appears that the other name for Neetu Chandra is controversy. After having raised enough noise in Telugu during the shooting of the film ‘Satyameva Jayathe’ and the eventual happenings, Neetu has now gone to Bollywood and a fresh controversy is said to have happened there recently.

Apparently, Neetu was all set to walk the ramp with Sonakshi, daughter of noted actor Shatrughan Sinha for a fashion week. However, Sonakshi is said to have refused to do it since she did not want to share the ramp with a ‘B’ grade actress . This is said to have enraged Neetu who came up with a reply.

Having worked with the likes of Ramgopal Varma, Madhur Bhandarkar, Vipul Shah if she is called as B-grade then Neetu asks what about Sonakshi who is yet to do a single movie and is in the shadow of her father. This cat fight is said to have gone big and Neetu has got the new title ‘Sexy Controversy Queen of 2009’.

Neetu Chandra Hot Photos

Deepika Padukone in Transparent Blue Saree

2009-04-08T04:11:00.000-07:00

The traditional Indian dress saree could be worn for different effects. The same dress could be worn in the most traditional manner and it could be changed a bit to reveal a lady’s sexy side also. New age actresses are also putting the saree to best use and to their advantage.

Seen here is Deepika Padukone who has worn the blue transparent saree to woo all and the actress is looking every bit desirable.

Though many argue that Sushmita Sen looks the best in a saree Deepika sure is hotting up the competition here.

Deepika Padukone Photo Gallery

Preity-Ness to split?

2009-04-06T03:54:00.000-07:00

Preity Zinta and Ness Wadia have apparently called it quits as a couple though they continue to be together in their professional ventures which include ownership of the IPL team Kings XI Punjab given the amount of money involved in being a franchisee owner, this is not surprising.
The facts speak for themselves. At the Filmfare Awards, Preity turned up without Ness. For the IPL press conference they were together (a professional assignment) though not hand in hand as they usually are and again at the recently concluded Fashion Week she came to cheer dear friends.

Shah Rukh Khan and Manish Malhotra but Ness was nowhere to be seen. While one is not suggesting a couple should be joined at the hip, Preity and Ness usually made a point to attend most dos together. Interestingly Ness’s mum Maureen Wadia, who is all praise for daughter-in-law Celina (married to Jeh, her elder son), has never publically acknowledged Preity, getting pretty testy when asked about her, often resorting to a ‘no comments’ stand.

The Preity-Ness relationship has been an onoff one for some time now, with periodic rumours of a split. But this time it seems to be serious. And though Preity laughed it off when asked, one understands that when millions of rupees are involved, personal equations have to be put on the backburner.

Actress's Affair With Her Physical Trainer?

2009-04-06T03:53:00.000-07:00

When it comes to being top heroine, the starlets always take good care of their body and many hire personal trainers for their workout sessions. Sometimes, such instances lead to few passionate flings and this is said to be a common feature in Bollywood.

Now, the hottest buzz making rounds in the Hindi film circuit is the ‘close’ association the svelte beauty Shilpa Shetty is said to be having with her trainer Sherin Poojari. Gossips say that both of them might just be sharing hot relation when Raj Kundra is not around.

However, sources close to both Shilpa and Sherin have quashed all this as baseless rumors. They say that Shilpa is currently relishing her romance with beau Raj Kundra and is also busy with the forthcoming IPL cricket season. Well, some things are never known and are left alone.

8x10 Tasveer Movie Review

2009-04-05T23:35:00.000-07:00

Movie: 8x10 Tasveer
My Rating: 2/5
Banner: Percept Picture Company, Mirah Entertainment & Sahara One Motion Pictures
Music: Salim Merchant, Sulaiman Merchant
Cinematography: Vikas Sivaraman
Written & Directed By: Nagesh Kukunoor
Producer: Shailendra Singh
Cast: Akshay Kumar, Ayesha Takia, Sharmila Tagore, Javed Jaffrey & Girish Karnad
Release Date: 3rd Apr 2009

Review

Story

Jai (Akshay Kumar) is son of a billionaire in Canada and he starts his own non-profit organization EPS (Environmental Protection Service) to conserve forests and wildlife. He is not happy with the way his father is earning money at the cost of environment. Jai has a special power of going into the time when a photo is taken and stays there for a minute to observe what exactly happened over there. His father dies in a mishap and later Jai suspects that it could be a murder. Jai gets hold of a photo taken at that time and goes into the scene several times to see what exactly happened over there. The rest of the story is all about ‘whodunit’.

Actors:
Akshay came out of his star image to do such a different film. He is extremely good. Ayesha Takia is excellent as the girlfriend of Akshay. Girish Karnad and Sharmila Tagore are adequate. Javed Jaffery is hilarious as a paranoid suffering from obsessive compulsive disorder regarding hygiene. Rushad Rana is competent.

Technical departments:

Story of the film is a typical murder mystery with a vital twist at the end. What makes this film different is the innovative screenplay. If Nagesh Kukunoor’s film Teen Deewarein dealt a screenplay akin to that of Amores Perros, the screenplay of 8x10 Tasweer is inspired by the mother of non-leaner narratives ‘Rashomon’. Like ‘Vantage point’ film where the points of views of nine people were taken to solve a murder mystery, Tasweer film takes the views of four people to find the culprit. Protagonist traveling into the past and looking from various people’s eyes is similar to looking at footages of videos taken from different angles. Like all murder mysteries, Nagesh Kukunoor also makes us suspect all the characters in the film but for the right one. Nagesh does a good job in screenplay and a bad job in directing the film. He could not get the grip in the latter part of the film second half where the secret is revealed. Though this film is supposed to be a supernatural thriller, it defies the following logics –

1. If the photo is burnt while protagonist visits past, he would be locked over there. But he comes out in this film. Protagonist injecting himself after completion of one minute is shown, but the logic is not clearly explained.
2. Protagonist is shown going after the suspect even when his girl friend and mother were in a critical position.

The execution of this film is in Hollywood style. The cinematography and background music are of top notch quality. The only song in the film is uncalled for. Dialogues are crisp and effective (especially the ones written for Happy with an I). Editing is adequate.

Analysis: 8x10 Tasveer is a typical ‘whodunit’ film with an interesting screenplay we generally see in Hollywood films. The movie starts with a kid looking frighteningly at a ball at the edge of a hill. And the same scene is replayed at the end explaining it. The plus points of the film are story and screenplay. The negative points are non-so-gripping narration, slow pace and lack of tempo. If you are academically interested in screenplay techniques, you may watch the film. Others might have to think twice before watching it.

Source: Idlebrain.com

Katrina Is a Barbie Girl

2009-04-04T01:52:00.000-07:00

Katrina Kaif is all set to immortalized as a new Barbie and the actress is quite happy with the honor.

She says, Id call it a fun honour. To have your face on dolls that youve played with from childhood is quite flattering. Weve been in negotiation for nearly six months. It finally came together for the 50-year celebration of Barbie.

Contrary to what people believe my Barbie is not an Indian counterpart of the international brand. Its an honour because Im the first Indian to be the face of Barbie. Ill be dressed the way the Barbie is all over the world. And I think in many ways its an endorsement of how kids connect with me. You cant be the face of an international doll unless kids like you. I like that. The thought that kids like me enough to make me a part of their doll collection is very gratifying.

Katrina was also a part of the team who decided the doll’s look and dress, she says, It is quite something, if you think about it. But Id rather not. I dont want my head to get swollen. For me its enough that I was chosen because I reflect a certain bubbly wholesome personality, quite contrary to the sexy tag that I get in net polls and which Im not very comfortable with.

Kangana to play Madhubala

2009-04-04T01:51:00.001-07:00

The actress who is more equipped in playing traumatized woman in films is facing a great challenge as she is going to play the role of immortalized beauty, Madhubala. To play yesteryears tender beauty is a great challenge for Kangana and she is in great thought as how to portray the role. The film is question is Milan Luthria’s film, ‘Once Upon A Time In Mumbai’. Interestingly, the film will speak the very tender romance between the yesteryear actress and underworld don Haji Mastan which will be played by Ajay Devgan.

Extremely in fear, Kangana said, “I’ve never thought of myself as beautiful. In fact I’ve always suffered from the lowest self-esteem. Till recently, I’d look at my pictures and cringe. I still have the pictures from my first portfolio I got done in Chandigarh. They remind me of how ugly I can look. And to now play Madhubala in ‘Once Upon A Time In Mumbai’. How will I do it?”

“I`m proud of my so-called territory as an actress. If playing traumatized women is my territory then I’m glad. Because I know I’m good at it. Madhubala`s role is not as tragic as my other roles. It’s basically a very tender romance between this really funny don (played by Ajay Devgan) and this female superstar who can’t understand his personality. How will I manage to play the most beautiful woman that Indian cinema has ever seen? My characters have always had a dark and light side. And this one is no exception. But the challenge for me is to look almost ethereally beautiful, like Madhubala. How will I manage that?” says Kangana.

However to get into the skin of the female lead, Kangana is watching loads of Madhubala films these days. Now it’s time to see Kangana in a totally new avatar.

Kareena gets hotter with Akshay

2009-04-04T01:50:00.001-07:00

With the approaching summer, Kareena Kapoor and Akshay Kumar has heat up the atmosphere utmost with their sizzling on-screen chemistry. News is doing the rounds that Bebo and Akki is doing some intimate scene in the action comedy Kambakkht Ishq and their rocking chemistry has become a hot topic of discussion.

“The two look hot together. Akshay and Kareena will set the screen on fire. The duo shares such a good chemistry on screen,” said a source close to the project. This is not the first time that both has been cast opposite one another, they have also worked together in films like Aitraaz, Talaash, Bewafaa and Tashan but it is said that Kambakkht Ishq hits the list in terms of sharing good rapport.

The film is slated for May release and another highlight of the film is the inclusion of Hollywood stars like Sylvester Stallone, Brandon Routh and Denise Richards. The film is one of the most awaited one due to its heavy loaded action, comedy and romance.

Genelia gets nervous

2009-04-04T01:47:00.000-07:00

Bollywood new glam doll Genelia D’Souza gets nervous as she walked the ramp for the first time for designer Manish Malhotra. Though nervous Genelia looked stunning in the gorgeous gown and shared the platform with Tusshar Kapoor. The Lakme Fashion week has seen many well known faces of Bollywood who has set the stage on fire and Genelia was one among them.

Speaking about her first experience, Genelia quips,“It was Manish’s idea. I just couldn’t say no to him. When I was about to walk the ramp, I had butterflies in my stomach and was very nervous. Manish walked up to me and said that be yourself and don’t get nervous. Now considering I don’t walk the ramp everyday, I walked the ramp the way I generally walk – like an actress!”

Genelia became the darling of every heart after she starred in ‘Jaane Tu Yaa Jaane Na’ with Imran Khan. Post the success of the film, she became a household name and now her name is in everyone’s lips. She is flying high with many promising projects in hand.

Sexy Beauty Semi Nude In Sand

2009-04-03T04:36:00.000-07:00

She is the hot Malabar sensation who is known with the name Neha Dhupia. In fact ‘Dhup in Hindi means ‘thirst’ or ‘heat’.

She is really conducting that in the hearts and senses of men those watch her. Although crossing thirty she is still looking sexier day by day. This is the latest pose of her rolling her blossom assets in sands.

Kambhakht Ishq is full of glitz: Bebo

2009-04-03T04:35:00.000-07:00

If you’ve been missing the glamorous side of Kareena Kappor, then wait for her forthcoming film Kambakht Ishq.

The film has Kareena strutting her stuff in one of her most glamorous appearances ever. The actress confesses that Kambhakht Ishq is a film in which she is out and out glamorous and stunning.

Talking about the film she says, “It’s a film which is full of glamour. It has all the elements of a commercial film. You have exciting moments, lot of glitz and glamour and a whole lot of stunning locations to enjoy. I am quite excited about this film because I have an entirely new look in it. I am playing the character of a super model and I have tried some great costumes in the movie.”

“I am quite hopeful for Kambhakht Ishq’s box office performance, as it’s a film for those who just want to enjoy glitz and glamour,” she adds.

Before Kambhkht Ishq, Kareena was seen flaunting her size zero figure in the film Tashan.

But this time around, it seems Kareena has become a little more experimental. Though she hasn’t disclosed anything about her intimate scenes with Akshay but the latest promotional video of the film suggests that she is at her glamorous best in these scenes.

Apart from these intimate scenes, the actress will also be seen repeating her bikini act in Tashan.

While talking about her glamorous side, Kareena is quick to reveal the secret behind her figure. “I think Yoga has done wonders to my personality,” says the actress.

AR Rahman gets 28 crore for replacing Beckham

2009-04-03T04:34:00.000-07:00

India’s Oscar winner music maestro AR Rahman has been signed by cell phone industry giant Motorola as their new brand ambassador. He will be replacing Motorola’s current brand ambassador famous football star David Beckham.

Sources reveal, “It is learnt that Rahman has been paid a whopping Rs.28 crore for this particular endorsement deal. This makes him the highest paid Indian celebrity for any such product.

Abhishek Bachchan is the face of Motorola in India and one can recollect a lot of in-film promotion of the cell phone brand in Bachchan Junior’s last release, Delhi-6.

Now it is not clear as of yet whether Rahman will be replacing Abhishek in India as well or both shall jointly be promoting the cell phone brand.”

Just last year, Rahman had collaborated with Motorola’s biggest competitor Nokia to launch a music album called Nokia Connections for the launch of their Xpress Music devices.

The soft spoken music director-singer presently also endorses cell phone service provider Airtel in India and has also composed the signature tune for the brand.

Genelia Wants Riteish Only!

2009-04-03T04:33:00.000-07:00

Some relationships are hard to understand in Bollywood. Interestingly, this time it is the bubbly beauty Genelia who is making news for an unusual demand. Apparently, she was to do the key role in a new movie that was to be directed by the former heroine Revathy.

However, Genny is said to have laid a condition that it must have her ‘Good Friend’ Riteish Deshmukh as her co-star since she is not comfortable pairing up with anyone else. Despite many pleas by the makers, she was said to be firm on her point and finally she has been shown the exit door.

While folks were not sure how to react to this, the seniors are saying that with such demands, it would be difficult for Genelia to make a career in Bollywood. Meanwhile, the question marks are still on as to what exactly is the story between Genelia and Riteish Deshmukh.

Aishwarya Rai’s Stunning Unseen Photo

2009-04-03T04:31:00.000-07:00

who has been ruling the hearts of millions from all over the world, she is none other than Aishwarya Rai. She is now the beauty in ‘black’ Goggles and walking in sexiest way of possible revealing her feminine beauty .But what you are looking in this photo is not real, watch it carefully.

Who Needs Bad Girls?

2009-03-06T04:21:00.000-08:00

Konkona Sen Sharma in a white kurta does a contented morning stretch in bed.

She has just woken up after a night of sex with her new love, Farhan Akhtar. This is a scene from Luck By Chance. In Fashion, a not-so-happy Priyanka finds herself in bed with a black man after a night of debauchery. In Dev D, Paro is eager for a romp in the hay in the Punjab fields.

The leading ladies of today are not exactly breaking into a sweat about sex. The virginal heroines, who would blanch, sulk or feel insulted, if you so much as suggested sex-before-marriage, has packed up her goodie-two shoes. Today, it is acceptable and not immoral or bad for her to have sex. She’s ready for reality.

The ghost of the “cabaret” (ugly connotations there) dancer is being laid to rest. Lay a wreath on the image of a heavy-eyed ‘Silk’ Smitha laying it on thick on a hot-blooded Kamal Haasan. There are no bad or good girls in films anymore.

Ketan Mehta, who had famously stirred up a bunch of mirchi women to fight off a powerful lecher, agrees sexuality is not an issue for heroines anymore. “The value systems have changed dramatically. Films are showing what is happening around us. Women are getting liberated and this process is carried forward in films.” Ketan may not be a rabble rouser for women’s rights but his films seem to revolve around the persona of the spirited woman. Be it the controversial Maya Memsaab or his more recent Colours Of Passion, where he delves into the debatable choices made by a woman. This biopic on Raja Ravi Varma also tackles the obscenity case filed against the artist for his nudes. And, Ketan explores the nude model’s “choices” in this film.

In the world of Indian cinema, there were good and bad girls. To the extent, they even had virgin treetwalkers. In Rakesh Roshan’s Bhagwan Dada, Sridevi gets her clients so punch drunk they hit the sack without her.
If she was not playing virgin, the heroine was just an arm candy wearing the most revealing outfits and mouthing regressive lines. You had to be a cigarette-puffing, glass-tippling woman or belong to the Mahesh Bhatt/Life In A Metro camp to play bold roles.

But today, darling of the masses, Rani Mukherjee crosses the laxman rekha of her marriage (however excruciating it maybe) to have a steamy session in a hotel room with her lover, Shah Rukh!

Hindi cinema is yet to handle a hands-on adult scene, states actor Mita Vasisth, currently working on her debut directorial venture. She says, “They are always missing the point and are still making a big fuss about kissing scenes. We are coy about adult love and kissing.” Back in the late 80s and early 90s, Mita did two nude scenes for Mani Kaul’s Siddeshwari and Kumar Sahani’s Kasba. Back then, people assumed she was being misguided.

But Mita points out, “I knew what I was doing. To me the business of body is sublime and not a cutesy cutesty affair. The scene was beautifully shot and blended with the film.”

Adult love was handled best in Chak De India in recent times, she says. “One of the girls in the team goes off with her boyfriend on a night out. The other girls are envious of her. What’s more, they do show her in bed with the boy, the next morning. It was a refreshing take. There was no let’s play dark room.” Choosing sex before marriage remains an aberration in cinema today. Even in Fashion, Priyanka is seen hopping into bed when she is on a downslide, she points out.

Kollywood actor Sonia Agarwal blames these stereotypical images of women on “imagination” rather than realism. “Girls who wore short skirts were bad and the one who wore sari was good. But, I believe, Bollywood has changed and things are not so black and white anymore.” However, Kollywood, she feels, still has a long way to go to catch up with her Hindi cousins. “Men here are still hankering after sari-clad and gajra-decked up virginal wives,” she says, and that’s reflected in our films.

Sonia herself has done what is considered to be bold in 7G Rainbow Colony, where she has premarital sex. Strangely, no eyebrows were raised though it was her most noticed role. She says, “I guess that was because it was a natural scene and part of the script,” she reasons. Guess we need to big goodbye to Indian celluloid’s bad girl for good!

Genie loves Johhny

2009-03-06T04:20:00.000-08:00

JAANE TU girl Genelia D’Souza has revealed her secret crush. And mind you, it’s not Imran Khan or the man she’s been linked up with for long time- Riteish Deshmukh.

It’s none other than our good old Johhny boy with whom she’s currently doing a film.

She says she’s been a fan of the actor for a while now and it was almost like a dream come true for her when she found herself sharing screen space with him in her next film, HOOK YA CROOK.

She says it’s a crush which probably dates back to her college days when John attended the college fete.

The actress, who found her feet back in Bollywood after the super success of JAANE TU YA JAANE NA, is also working in films like IT’S MY LIFE and LIFE PARTNER with Harman Baweja and Fardeen Khan. And she’s grateful as she had almost disappeared from the B-Town after her 2003 debut TUJHE MERI KASAM and Indra Kumar’s MASTI which was a success. She did fairly good work in the South thereafter.

And she has no problems about being cast in girl next door mould, much like MASTI co-star, Amrita Rao. She says she’s open to challenges and even open to doing an all out commercial film or even action movies.

She might not be an overnight sensation but she’s counting her blessing and happily doing her own thing. Genie baby has claimed to be different, thus far.

Bollywood comes first for Bipasha

2009-03-06T04:14:00.000-08:00

John Abraham scored brownie points for his sizzling ‘butt’ilicious bod, can girlfriend Bipasha Basu be far behind?

Those who’ve seen her recently will agree they were stunned by the ‘absolutely hot new figure that the already sexy Bips now flaunts. And the actress admits that a lot has gone into notching extra points on the drool‘o’meter.

“Almost two hours of work-outs, apart from healthy eating,” Bipasha reveals her secret. So, is she ready to give takkar to the six-pack-male-brigade? “No, I would never want them to get a complex from me,” she laughs. “What I was aiming at was to acquire a fit body. But I definitely don’t want to look like a body-builder. I strongly believe in looking feminine and feeling that way too.”

Turning a year older recently has not been of much concern to her either. “I think I’m looking much better than I ever did even as a 16-year-old,” she says. Having already proven to her detractors that age has nothing to do with the onscreen chemistry she shares with younger co-stars like Ranbir Kapoor in Bachna Ae Haseeno, she’s now set to do the same with Neil Nitin Mukesh in Aa Dekhe Zara, in which she plays a DJ. Talking about this fast-action based thriller, Bips says, “Unfortunately I don’t get to do much action.” There was also buzz about her playing a negative character in this one, but all that she says is, “wait and watch”.

The actress who’s kitty has several other films this year — including Pankh, another film with Ajay Devgan, and Rituparno Ghosh’s Sob Choritro Kalponik — says that doing films internationally are not as much her priority as doing good films here. “SRK is higher on my wish list than Brad Pitt. There’s so much more to do here first. There have been several offers in the past, but somehow they haven’t materialised either due to date hassles or other such issues. If a good offer comes along I’d love to do it, but I am never bidding a good-bye to Bollywood,” she quips.

This apart, what has Bips really excited these days is doing up her new apartment. “I can’t wait for the work on it to get over. It’s being done up since the past six months now and each and everything in it has been handpicked by me, so I am really excited about moving in it soon,” she says. With John? “That, I’m not telling you,” she smiles.

Deepika Ranbir Love story cracked due to Sonam Kapoor

2009-03-04T22:30:00.000-08:00

Is there trouble in paradise for Ranbir Kapoor and his lady love, Deepika Padukone? Well rumors are flying about how Deepika Padukone is apparently mad at her beau, Ranbir Kapoor. So what is making the lovely actress so angry at her boyfriend?

Well the answer is Sonam Kapoor. No, it's not that Sonam and Ranbir who were romantically linked while working on the film, 'Sawariya' are getting back together. It's just that Ranbir Kapoor thinks that Sonam Kapoor is a great looking girl.

Most would agree with Ranbir's thoughts on Sonam as she has been seen on almost every magazine cover and ramp shows as the showstopper. However, it seems that Deepika was not too happy with his feelings about Sonam Kapoor.

Ranbir Kapoor apparently told Deepika that she should hire Sonam Kapoor's stylist immediately and also requested Sonam for the same. But sources say this didn't go down to well with Deepika Padukone, who was furious and asked Sonam Kapoor's stylist to leave her house immediately when the poor stylist went to give her styling tips.

Well it seems like the incident didn't have a huge impact on their relationship as Deepika and Ranbir are spotted together at industry events and hotspots around Mumbai. The two looked like the perfect pair as they arrived at the Filmfare awards together. They seemed very happy at the event but Ranbir Kapoor was seen hanging out with Sonam Kapoor backstage. Wonder how Deepika Padukone felt about that?? Well hopefully Deepika will forget and poor Sonam won't be dragged between Ranbir and Deepika!

Siddharth The Prisoner Movie Review

2009-03-04T04:26:00.000-08:00

Movie: Siddharth - The Prisoner
My Rating: 1.5/5
Banner: Vistaar Religare Film Fund, Walkwater Media & Alliance Media & Entertainment Pvt. Ltd.
Music: Sagar Desai
Cinematography: Mrinal Desai
Editing: Pryas Gupta & Arindam Ghatak
Screenplay, Direction: Pryas Gupta
Producers: Vistaar Religare Film Fund
Cast: Rajat Kapoor, Sachin Nayak, Pradeep Kabra, Pradip Sagar etc
Release Date: 27th Feb 2009

Review

Story:

Siddharth Roy (Rajat Kapoor) is a celebrated writer but gets into jail due to some unforeseen reasons. He gets separated from his wife and kid and loses everything. After getting released from the jail, he wants to regain his lost glory and strained wife by writing a novel – Siddharth: The Prisioner. Mohan (Sachin Nayak) works in a cyber café that is owned by a mafia kingpin. The mafia guy gives a suitcase with money to Mohan to keep it in a safe place. Siddharth goes to the same cyber café with a suitcase that carries his transcript. Both the suitcases get exchanged. The rest of the story is all about how Siddharth and Mohan save their skin from the mafia guys.

Actors:

Rajat Kapoor did a dark role in this film. He is adequate with minimal expressions and a gloomy look. Sachin Nayak is good as a man of integrity. Pradeep Kabra (who acted as eve teaser in Idea’s latest commercial with Shriya Saran) impresses with his stern look. Pradip Sagar is nice as a frustrated gangster.

Technical departments:

Story:

Though this film is about the suitcase exchange, there is a metaphorical meaning to the plot that Siddharth is being the prisoner of his own devices and greed. The director has given two quotations from Rig Veda and Buddha’s teaching about letting everything go and to free your mind of any longings.

Direction of the film is adequate and screenplay is bad. The director seems to have got confused whether to narrate the film as a thriller or an art film. This story has the ingredients of a good thriller. There are a few basic flaws in the story. Why would Siddarth go to cyber café to look out for script after stealing and keeping suitcase-full of money? What is the reason for the break-up between Siddharth and his wife? Why did he go to jail? These are a few unanswered questions. There is a nice paradox in the subject. The movie starts off with Siddhath being a bad guy and Mohan being an honest man. The movie ends with Siddhath becoming honest and Mohan turning into a bad guy. The narration of the film is pathetically slow. What is the need for showing prolonged train movements and lift movements in the film? One scene that stands out in entertainment aspect is firing crackers on

Other Technical Departments:

Cinematography is realistic. Color grading is good. Music is adequate. Dialogues are minimal. Editing is not up to the mark.

Final Analysis:

Siddhath – The Prisoner is a confused product where director couldn’t come up with a clear-cut making. The plus points are the story idea and realistic look. The negative points are bad screenplay and ultra-slow narration. The teaser of this film proudly displays the awards it got from international film festivals and it you see the film; you will lose the respect you have for film festivals.

Source: idlebrain.com

Imran-Ranbir takeover from SRK-Saif

2009-02-27T04:41:00.001-08:00

Well we are always looking forward to a hilarious night at Filmfare awards with rocking Khan’s SRK and Saif entertaining us. SRK with his wit and Saif with his humour keep us laughing througout the awards night but this year the big guns have been replaced by youngistaan guys - Imraan Khan and Ranbir Kapoor.

A source says, “Ranbir and Imran are good friends and have a great equation. They both are polar opposites, with Imran being shy and reserved, while Ranbir is a total brat. They have worked on a hilarious script and plan to have a ball at the awards.”

Whoa! Looking forward to this year’s Filmfare awards ‘coz the two guys are really cuuuteeeeeeeee!!

AKshay invites Kylie Minogue on lunch

2009-02-27T04:33:00.000-08:00

Australian popstar Kylie Minogue is in India to perform for a song in Akshay Kumar starrer and Anthony D’SOuza’s flick Blue.

As soon as Kylie’s feet touched the Indian ground, the talented singer was invited for a lunch at Akki’s home.

A source reveals, “Kylie and some of Akshay-Twinkle Khanna’s close friends from the industry plus the Blue crew are invited for lunch by the actor on Thursday afternoon. This is supposed to be his way of making her comfortable in Mumbai. If Hrithik and Sussanne Roshan went all out to make Barbara Mori comfortable in Mumbai why not Akshay and his wife?”

And to add to the affair the lunch was recorded live since the producers of the movie wanted it to be a public affair.

I am glad I wasn’t at the party eating under camera lights.

Freida Pinto Is Woody Allen’s Next Babe

2009-02-26T02:57:00.001-08:00

Woody Allen - the famous Hollywood director has zeroed in on his next babe, who is our Slumdog babe Freida Pinto.

The news bit has been confirmed by Freida’s sister, Sharon, “Yes, Freida has been cast in a film to be directed by Woody Allen, but she is also very busy with her agent in Los Angeles to work out her acting agenda. Currently she is overstressed with all the interviews, the media barrage.”

Woody Allen’s previous flick Vicky Christina Barcelona fetched Penelope an Oscar for the best supporting actress this year

Freida Pinto Photo Gallery

Ash On The Sets Of Raavan

2009-02-26T02:54:00.001-08:00

Check out Aishwarya Rai getting her steps right for a dance sequence on the sets of Raavan.

Aishwarya More Hot Photos

Freida Pinto Traumatized, Says Sister

2009-02-26T02:52:00.001-08:00

Freida Pinto is basking in the glory of Oscar winner Slumdog Millionaire, however the pretty lass is also miffed by the recent scandal (regarding her ex-fiance Rohan Antao) has traumatized her, according to her sister Sharon Pinto.

Sharon Pinto says, “The last two weeks have been difficult for Freida with all the speculation about her personal life in the media. Some details have been very unsavoury and traumatic for her, and the family at large. Currently she is sleeping and catching some rest in Los Angeles. Also it being Oscar week, she has been in and out of interviews. We try to keep in touch with her, but then I always have to Google what the LA time is, for she might be asleep! I think it’s time to let her be.”

Freida, you have left both Indian media and Rohan behind you, so forget them and carry on with your life.

Freida Pinto Photo Gallery

Sonam Kapoor No Longer a Desi Girl!

2009-02-26T02:47:00.000-08:00

Sonam Kapoor who played a homely desi girl in her last two films Saawariya and Delhi 6, Sonam Kapoor is now all set to go hep’n happening in her dad Anil Kapoor’s home production ‘Ayesha’.

Anil Kapoor had already produced Gandhi My Father and had planned this film specially and exclusively for his daughter. He has roped in writer Devika Bhagat to write the narrative of ‘Ayesha’, which is based on Jane Austen’s famous novel ‘Emma’. Sonam gets to play desi Emma, one who is young, witty and rich. Devika has earlier penned the story of Bachna Ae Haseeno.

A source reports, “Sonam will be seen in an ultra-mod chic look for portraying Emma, as Anil Kapoor believes that the story of Emma can be told well in contemporary Indian context. The film will be set in a metropolis. Of late, Sonam has been shedding her traditional looks; her recent photo-shoots (especially for Verve) and public appearances say it all.

Abhay Deol has reportedly been finalized to play the male lead, who is Ayesha’s worst critic as well as the one who secretly loves and cares for her. Newcomer Arunodoy Singh is roped in to play an amiable young flirtatious man whom Ayesha adores and pursues. And VJ Cyrus Sahukar will provide the third angle to the story as a guy who wants to marry Ayesha.

Rumour has it that Anil himself is likely to play the role of Ayesha’s father – an amazing character who’s a hypochondriac highly concerned about the health and safety of his loved ones.

The movie is ready to go on floors by April and it’s been reported that shooting will proceed at single stretch.

Bollywood Actress Hot Photos

Slumdog Millionaire Cast Shines At the Oscars

2009-02-24T03:05:00.001-08:00

Rahman Thanks Everyone After Award Ceremony

2009-02-24T03:03:00.000-08:00

Bollywood reacts on Slumdog’s success at the Oscars

2009-02-24T03:00:00.000-08:00

It’s a proud moment for the entire India after Slumdog Millionaire especially A.R Rahman’s spectacular win at the Oscar’s. Check out how Bollywood and few politcians react to the win.

Anil Kapoor: We have no words to express our feeling! Very few movies have performed so well! None of us really imagined it would ever happen to Slumdog. Films like ‘Gone with the Wind’ have gotten so many awards. Everyone is surprised at the talent India has. I really thought it was an Indian function. It had to be a very happy ending! Everyone is so thrilled…the whole world has loved it. We must think globally now.

Sajid Khan: I wish Gulzar sahib was also at the awards. I am very happy for Danny Boyle.

Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra: I am proud and so happy that it’s A.R. He brought north and south India together when he started composing music and now he has successfully bridged the gap between the east and the west. It’s incredible! There are more people in the west who know him now than they know about his work.

Preity Zinta: It is a fantastic day for everyone. It is awesome and had to happen. Rahman is a very humble and sweet man. He was knocking on the door for so long. He had done excellent music for Lagaan too. Gulzar can write lyrics you cannot even think of.

Kamal Hassan: Rahman does not let you know he is so good. You can’t but look at India now. Hollywood-Bollywood tie up is the way forward.

Mohit Chauhan: It is very encouraging. Rahman is a great inspiration for all the musicians in the country. And it’s a great honour also. Our films are going places and so is our music. We can look ahead to good times.

Farhan Akhtar: This is definitely a spotlight on India now. You can’t help but call it an Indian film. Film has connected with lots of people. It has been shot and directed really well.

Usha Uthap: I am proud of him. He is a good friend.

Prabhu Deva: I had goose bumps. Everyone in Tamilnadu is so happy!

Sonam Kapoor: Dad was looking very handsome!

Asha Bhosle: Rahman is very close to me.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh: Slumdog team has done India proud.

Politician P. Chidambaram: No taxation for his win.

Delhi 6 Movie Review

2009-02-20T04:39:00.000-08:00

Movie: Delhi 6
My Rating: 2/5
Banner: UTV Motion Pictures & Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra Pictures
Music: AR Rehman
Cinematography: Binod Pradhan
Lyrics: Prasoon Joshi, Vivinenne Pocha, Claire
Editing: P S Bharathi
Direction: Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra
Producers: Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra & Ronnie Screwvala
Cast: Abhishek Bachchan, Sonam Kapoor, Atul Kulkarni, Divya Dutta, Om Puri, Rishi Kapoor, Waheeda Rehman, Pawan Malhotra etc
Release Date: 20th Feb 2009

Review

Story:

Roshan (Abhishek Bachchan) – an NRI from the USA – visits India to accompany his ailing granny (Waheeda Rehman) to fulfill her wish to live her last leg of life in Delhi 6, the neighborhood she grew up. Being a guy brought up in the USA, Roshan finds the locality of Delhi 6 intimidating at first. Slowly he draws himself into various people around him. Bittu (Sonam Kapoor) is his neighbor girl and Roshan helps her to fend off the marriage proposals so that she could concentrate on her dream of becoming an Indian Idol. Meanwhile, there are rumors about a black monkey creating havoc in city. The rest of the story is all about what the black monkey is all about and what happens to the relationship between Roshan and Bittu.

Artists Performance:

Abhishek Bachchan is adequate as the male lead. Sonam Kapoor is pretty good. Rishi Kapoor is excellent. Atul Kulakarni steals the show as an innocent man. It’s a different role for Divya Dutta and she is good. Vijay Raaz goes overboard at times. Om Puri and Pawan Malhotra are superb. It’s a cake walk for Waheeda Rehman. Aditi Rao is supremely good in a sympathy-oriented role. Amitab Bachchan did a cameo.

Technical Departments:

The basic idea of this film is to show there that is God as well as devil in every one of us and we should kill the devil (black monkey) inside us in order to have a good conscience. This message is delivered in the climax and if you rewind the entire story and the happenings in the film, you would realize that black monkey concept and Ram Leela episodes are metaphorically inserted in the screenplay. Direction of the film is good in parts. But the real problem with the film is unfocussed narration by having too many characters in the film and dwelling on each and every character for more time. Another problem with this film is that director tried to discuss and resolve too many issues (Hindu-Muslim divide, media’s over-enthusiasm about making news out of nothing, untouchability (caste divide), brothers’ conflict, superstition, politicians exploiting the religion, child marriages, NRI realizing good things about India, Ram Leela play etc) at the same time. One fails to understand how Abhishek keeps jumping like a monkey from building to building during interval part. Is it to hint the audiences that he could be the black monkey of the film?

Music by AR Rehman is the highlight of the film. All songs are excellently picturized. Dilgira song is the only song with vibrant colors in this film as rest of the film has tint to the color. The way all characters of Delhi 6 appear in the dreamy song of Abhishek shot in colorful USA streets is refreshing. Cinematography is very good. Art direction is excellent as the ambiance of old Delhi and Chandni Chowk come alive in this film. Rerecording of the film is also good. Like Rang De Basanthi, this film too is shot using spot dubbing. You have to concentrate listening to dialogues as they sound shallow and inaudible in theaters with not-so-good sound systems. Vaibhavi Merchant’s choreography is first rate. Editing is adequate. Production values are grand.

Final Analysis:

First half of the film is alright. Second half is boring. Interval point of the film is abrupt. The major strength of the film is music by AR Rehman. It’s extraordinary. The main drawbacks of the film are innumerable characterizations, too many metaphors and lack of focus on narrating the main point as multiple subplots dilute the interest. Looks like naming films on Delhi (Chandni Chowk to China and Delhi 6) is a box-office jinx for this year. On a whole, Delhi 6 lacks soul and is a preachy and boring film.

Write Your Comments On This Movie From Comments Section

Source: Idlebrain.com

8 Nominations FOr Rab Ne And 6 For Ghajini

2009-02-18T03:02:00.000-08:00

Well the baap of all Bollywood awards has finally released its nomination list. Check it out below…THE NOMINATIONS ARE…

Best Film
Dostana
Ghajini
Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na
Jodhaa Akbar
Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi
Rock On!!

Best Director

A.R. Murugadoss: Ghajini
Abhishek Kapoor: Rock On!!
Aditya Chopra: Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi
Ashutosh Gowariker: Jodhaa Akbar
Madhur Bhandarkar: Fashion
Neeraj Pandey: A Wednesday

Best Actor (Male)

Aamir Khan: Ghajini
Abhishek Bachchan: Dostana
Akshay Kumar: Singh Is Kinng
Hrithik Roshan: Jodhaa Akbar
Shah Rukh Khan: Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi
Naseeruddin Shah: A Wednesday

Best Actor (Female)

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan: Jodhaa Akbar
Anushka Sharma: Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi
Asin Thottumkal: Ghajini
Kajol: U Me Aur Hum
Priyanka Chopra: Fashion

Best Actor In A Supporting Role (Male )

Abhishek Bachchan: Sarkar Raj
Arjun Rampal: Rock On!!
Prateik Babbar: Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na
Sonu Sood: Jodha Akbar
Tushar Kapoor: Golmaal Returns
Vinay Pathak: Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi

Best Actor In A Supporting Role (Female )

Bipasha Basu: Bachna Ae Haseeno
Kangna Ranaut: Fashion
Kirron Kher: Dostana
Ratna Pathak Shah: Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na
Shahana Goswami: Rock On!!

Best Music Director

A R Rahman: Ghajini
A R Rahman: Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na
A R Rahman: Jodhaa Akbar
Pritam Chakraborty: Race
Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy: Rock On!!
Vishal-Shekhar: Dostana

Best Lyrics

Abbas Tyrewala: Kabhi kabhi Aditi (Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na)
Gulzar: Tu meri dost hai (Yuvvraaj)
Jaideep Sahni: Haul –haule (Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi)
Javed Akhtar: Jashn-e-bahara (Jodhaa Akbar)
Javed Akhtar: Socha hai (Rock On!!)
Prasoon Joshi: Guzarish (Ghajini)

Best Playback (Male)

Farhan Akhtar: Socha hai (Rock On!!)
KK: Khuda jaane (Bachna Ae Haseeno)
KK: Zara si dil mein (Jannat)
Rashid Ali: Kabhi kabhi Aditi (Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na)
Sonu Nigam: Inn lamhon ke daaman mein (Jodhaa Akbar)
Sukhwinder Singh: Haule haule (Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi)

Best Playback (Female)

Alka Yagnik: Tu muskura (Yuvvraaj)
Neha Bhasin: Kuch khaas hai (Fashion)
Shilpa Rao: Khuda jaane (Bachna Ae Haseeno)
Shreya Ghoshal: Teri ore (Singh is Kinng)
Shruti Pathak: Marjaawa (Fashion)
Sunidhi Chauhan: Dance pe chance (Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi)

Abhishek Bachchan's Most Beautiful Woman On Earth Is Not Aishwarya

2009-02-18T02:55:00.000-08:00

Abhishek Bachchan is supposedly married to the woman considered the most beautiful woman in the world. However its not what Abhishek thinks. His idea of beauty is what is epitomised by someone much older than he. Yes he thinks Waheeda Rehman is the most beautiful woman on the Earth.

“I’ve worked with Waheeda aunty before in Om Jai Jagdish. It was a sheer honour to work with her again. She is the most dignified and beautiful lady on Earth.

She’s such a wonderful person to be on the sets with. She has this aura about her which lights up everyone’s life and I can’t be more privileged that I have already done two films with her.

Actors go through their entire career not having an opportunity to work with her because she doesn’t do lot of work. I was very excited that she had agreed to do Delhi 6.”

Delhi 6 releases on 20th Feb.. till then get a sneak peak preview of Delhi 6 on

Deepika Vs Angelina?

2009-02-18T02:49:00.000-08:00

Deepika is more beautiful than Angelina Jolie… thats what Rob Cohen believes. Rob Cohen is the Hollywood director who directed films like The Witches of Eastwick and The Fast and the Furious.

After Danny Boyle’s success in India with Slumdog Millionaire, Cohen wants to make a film in India called the Jewel of India. A source reports, “The film will be made worldwide in Hollywood, Dubai and Bollywood and the plot revolves around the Kohinoor diamond, the magnificent jewel that may have been discovered in India as long as five thousand years ago and which now forms the centerpiece of the British Crown Jewels – or does it? The movie’s script begins with the tantalising suggestion the jewel that sits in the Tower of London is in fact a fake.”

The source adds, “In India last week, Rob spoke to potential cast members Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan and John Abraham on the male side – and on the female side, he also spoke to Katrina Kaif. But it appears to have been Deepika Padukone who has caught his attention even though he has yet to meet her.”

“I love Deepika Padukone!,” he exclaims, “I think one of the characters may be a dancer and we may find her in a club or something, which would incorporate some Bollywood dance sequences. I saw her in Chandni Chowk to China and I thought she was, in both characters, perfect. She’s gorgeous! I think she is more beautiful than Angelina Jolie,” Cohen is quoted saying.

The source also reports that the lead role has been discussed in principle with John Abraham.

“Though John has agreed in principle, to be part of the cast, the other details are still being worked out,” says a source, “The film is being made on a whopping 300 crores budget and will also have stars from Hollywood,” the source adds.

Billu Barber Movie Review

2009-02-14T03:45:00.000-08:00

Movie: Billu Barber
My Rating: 2.5/5
Banner: Red Chillies Entertainment
Music: Pritam
Cinematography: V Manikanandan
Editing: Arun Kumar
Dialogues: Manisha Korde
Direction: Priyadarshan
Producer: Ronnie Screwvala
Cast: Shahrukh Khan, Irfan Khan & Lara Dutta
Release Date: 13th Feb 2009

Review

Story:

Billu (Irfan Khan) is a humble barber from a remote village in Northern India. Sahir Khan (Shahrukh Khan) is a bollywood superstar. The unit of Sahir Khan's latest film visits the village of Billu for a long schedule. The village men find out that Sahir Khan is the childhood friend of Billu and go to Billu to take them to meet Sahir. Being a shy and honest guy, Billu fears that Sahir might have become materialistic and forgot all the good times they had together as youth. The rest of the story is all about whether Sahir remembers Billu or not.

Actors:

Irfan Khan is excellent as Billu – an honest human being. Shahrukh Khan plays a role that is close to his real life and he brings in much desired glamour. Lara Dutta is adequate as poor housewife. However, her sophisticated looks do dominate the simplicity and naivety needed for such a role. Kareena Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra and Deepika Padukone did item songs in this film. Deepika Padukone is absolutely hot. The regulars of Priyadarshan movies – Rajpal Yadav, Asrani, Om Puri, Manoj Joshi are also present.

Technical Departments:

Billu Barber is a remake of Malayalam blockbuster which was remade into Telugu (Kathanayakudu) and Tamil (Kuselan). The story is based on the relationship of Lord Srikrishna and his poor friend Kuchela. Direction of the film is just average. Screenplay should have been better. The moment Billoo communicates with Sahir, the movie would be over. The entire film is woven using a screenplay that avoids the meeting of these two people till climax. The events used for that purpose should have been more gripping. Another disturbing thing about the film is the unnecessary scenes and songs involving Shahrukh Khan. Priyadarshan criticized the screenplay of Kuselan saying that too much of importance is given to Rajnikant in Telugu/Tamil versions. But Priyadardhan too didn't do any better in Hindi version. The trademark Priyadarshan comedy is missing in this film. The only honest moment I saw in this movie was Irfan Khan's reaction when his wife doubts him if he knows the superstar.

Music by Pritam is mediocre with heard-before tunes. Dialogues are adequate. Photography of the film is excellent. The locations used for this film are extraordinary with water falls, hills and lots of greenery. Art direction is very good. Dialogues are neat. Editing should have been crisper.

Final Analysis:

This movie belongs to Irfan Khan. Being a star and the producer Shahrukh Khan, he took more footage than necessary in the film. All the scenes involving Irfan Khan look natural and scenes of Shahrukh Khan are artificial. The climax of the film is heart-touching as it deals with humanity and friendship. It is becoming routine to have 3-4 heroines to come and dance in Sharukh Khan movies (Om Shanti Om, Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi and Billu Barber). On a whole, Billu Barber disappoints as it is neither a commercial film nor an art film.

Source: Idlebrain

Write Your Review On This Movie By Comments

Dev D Movie Review

2009-02-13T04:24:00.000-08:00

Movie: Dev D
My Rating: 3/5
Banner: UTV Spot Boy & Bindass
Music: Amit Trivedi
Cinematography: Rajeev Ravi
Editing: Aarti Bajaj
Direction: Anurag Kashyap
Producer: Ronnie Screwvala
Cast: Abhay Deol, Mahi Gill & Kalki Koechlin etc
Release Date: 6th Jan 2009

Review

Story:

Dev (Abhay Deol) and Paro (Mahi Gill) are childhood friends. Dev is sent to London and returns after a long gap. Their love is intact. They have a quarrel and Paro is married to another guy. Being a rich and a spoilt brat, a depressed Dev resorts to excessive booze and cocaine. Chanda (Kalki Koechlin) is daughter of a high commissioner in Delhi. Her sex MMS is leaked during school days and it leads to the suicide of her father. She comes out of her house and joins an escorts place where she goes to the school in the morning and works as a sex worker during nights. Dev and Paro find solace in each others miserable past. The rest of the story is about who Dev chooses at last – his eternal love Paro and his new flame Chanda?

Actors:

Abhay Deol has become the master of underplay. He is perfect as Dev – the man who resorts to drugs, sex and vodka. Mahi Gill resembles Tabu a lot in lots of angles. She is exceptionally good. Kalki Koechlin brings innocence as well as oomph with her performance. The guy who did the role of Chunni is good. The kids who did the roles of Dev and Paro are also cute.

Technical Departments:

Dev D is a modern adaptation of classic Devdas. To make this a contemporary, the director has stuffed the narrative with drugs, sexual innuendoes and misuse of internet and cell phones (mms, mailing of nude photos, phone sex to name a few). If Devdas drinks to glory for the loss of Paro, Dev D meanders aimlessly among sex, coke and vodka. If Chandramukhi did classical dance to woo the customer in Devdas, Chanda performs role plays and phone sex to excite the customers. If Paro in Devdas is an honest lover, Paro in Dev D is a sexually driven and does not mind sleeping around with others though she loves Devdas. The director also used famous delhi scandals (DPS sexual MMS and Sanjeev Nanda BMW hit and case). There are lots of reference to Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Devdas in terms of posters and videos in this film.

Direction by Anurag Kashyap is good. He interpreted the old film well and written to the Dev D to represent the latest world of immoral youth who drown themselves in drugs and sex. The non-linear screenplay in the first half is very good. The way he has shown the two girls sitting on the train and the flashback narrative of Dev D reaching Chandra’s room is interesting. However, the second half drags with repetitive content. The screenplay in the second half should have been better.

Music of the film is very good with emosanal atyachar being the highlight. Cinematography deserves great applause. The biggest highlight of the film is superb cinematography that brought out exuberant and vibrant colors. Art direction is futuristic. Dialogues are crisp and efficient. Editing is fine.

Final Analysis:

Initial part of the film is excellent and first half is good. The second half is slow and repetitive. Climax of the film is interesting. Dev D is a brave film with bold content. If you are emotionally attached with Devdas classic, Dev D’s sexual overtone, drug abuse and dark life might offend you. Otherwise, Dev D is worth a watch (not to be seen with kids or parents) for multiplex crowds.

Source: Idlebrain.com

Write Your Reviews From Comments

Deepika Has No Problems With Ranbir’s Mom!

2009-02-13T04:18:00.001-08:00

Deepika Padukone who otherwise doesn’t like to talk about her relationship with Ranbir has now come out open to clarify that she has no issues with Ranbir’s mom Neetu Singh.

She said, “I’ve only met her a couple of times and hardly interacted with Ranbir’s parents. I’ve the highest regard for her. Ranbir and I will get to know each other’s parents when the time is right. At the moment we’re both focused on our careers.”
Deepika is obviously irritated with the media for putting her relationship with Ranbir under a scanner so she remarked, “The only time Ranbir and I have spoken is about each other is when we wanted to confess our love. Then they’ve been bringing us together, splitting us up … I’m very secure and happy in our relationship.”

Thank you Deepika but that wouldn’t put a full stop to media’s interest in your relationship… be ready for more!

Sharon Stone Flirts With Dev Patel

2009-02-13T04:16:00.000-08:00

Slumdog Millionaire actor Dev Patel recently got excited to the core, ‘coz none other than Basic Instinct hottie Sharon Stone flirted with him during BAFTA awards.

A website reported Dev as saying, : “Sharon’s great, she’s been flirting with me all night. She was chasing me around earlier, slapping me. Sharon Stone! Can you believe it?”

Sharon as soon as she spotted Dev, she ignored another actor Mickey Rourkey and went straight over to Dev and whispered, “I thought you were amazing in ‘Slumdog Millionaire’.” to which Dev gave a humble reply “Thanks!!”.

An eye-witness reveals, Dev is young enough to be her son - even her grandson - but that didn’t seem to stop Sharon flirting with him. As soon as she broke away, he grabbed his mobile and said, ‘The lads are never going to believe this - I’ve got to text them about Sharon Stone.’ Mickey Rourke looked a bit put out that this kid was getting all the action.”

Rahman Happy On The Oscars

2009-02-13T04:15:00.001-08:00

All eyes of India are on A.R Rahman to bring that coveted golden statue home and the music maestro is completely nervous.

After winning the Golden Globe for his wonderful song Jai Ho, Rahman walked away with British academy of Film and Television Art (BAFTA) award for the same song.

Rahman says, “It came as surprise, not because I didn’t expect it but, because it was announced too soon. Mine was one of the first awards to be announced. I got it from one of my favourite international artistes Kylie Minogue. That was pretty cool.”

Shifting his focus to Oscar, a very much nervous Rahman says, “I feel like one of our sportspersons at the Olympics who is being told to bring home a gold medal. I hope I don’t let people in India who are expecting me to win the Oscar down. God has already given me much more than I ever expected. I have very low expectations from my nomination at the Oscars. Maybe that’s the kind of person I am.”

Well we are sure Rahman, that you would definitely win an Oscar, so Jai Ho!!!

No L’oreal Fight Between Ash & Sonam

2009-02-13T04:13:00.000-08:00

Well recently their were rumors that Ash declined to endorse a fairness cream for L’oreal which resulted in her being replaced by newbie Sonam Kapoor. However Sonam has a different tale to tell.

She says, “Ash and I both are the ambassadors of Loreal, however some reporters created mischief, by saying I am promoting the fairness cream. Mine is a white perfect cream meant for skin pigmentation and fairness. It’s a deep pigmentation cream meant for Asian skin as girls in their twenties face a lot of hormonal problems in this age. Also Ash had not refused it as she was not offered this product in the first place.”

The girl has a point there, Ash is very fair, it would be stupid of L’oreal to take a fair face like Ash and make her dark to show the results of the cream.

Well lets hope Sonam’s comment end this matter as of now.

SRK Hits Out at Slumdog Critics & V-day Moral Police

2009-02-13T04:11:00.000-08:00

SRK feels that Danny Boyle has done nothing wrong in making a flick about the slums in Mumbai.

He says, “It will open doors for people to understand that there is a lot of visual appeal to India. I hear a lot of people saying that India has been shown in bad light in Slumdog Millionaire. But then my logic to everyone is that why is it that somebody comes from outside and makes a film like Gandhi and Slumdog. All we can say about it is that it is showing India in a poor light.”

SRK also took this opportunity to talk about the Moral Police who is planning to disrupt Valentine Day plans of young lovers, he says, We should see Valentine’s as a day of friendship and love and not as a western culture attack. I would say all youngsters should give roses to all the people they love in a good way.”

Priyanka-Shahid Flirt on Facebook

2009-02-13T04:00:00.000-08:00

We all know how secretive his Priyanka about her relationships, her romance with Hurman Baweja wasn’t officially confirmed till the lad broke the news about their break up.

Well Piggy Chops is back to her flirty ways and this time its her Kaminay co-star Shahid Kapoor, if we believe their Facebook profiles to be authentic, then lot of action is going on between the two rookie lovers.

Priyanka’a login name at the social networking website is a carefully planned ‘Sir Pranks-a-lot’, apparently Priyanka is so addicted to Facebook that she even made Shahid open an account at the website.

A common buddy of both the actors reveals, “They (Priyanka-Shahid) keep writing on each other`s walls, commenting on each other`s status messages and poking each other.

Priyanka`s relationship status was in an invisible mode when she was with Harman, but after the break- up, she`s listed as single. Shahid too is listed as single on his profile.”

“Shahid is called Sha-Sha by his close friends, but Priyanka calls him Shaks. In fact, she has addressed him as Shaks in most of her messages and he calls her Peefee.”

Check out their wall-to-wall chat and status message below:

Status:Sir Pranks-A-Lot is freezing her ar*e off in Chicago

Shahid Kapur comments…

It`s rare how some people can sleep through such natural disasters.

Wall-to-wall: Sir Pranks-A-Lot (Priyanka) wrote…

Wassup… Shaks?

Shahid Kapur wrote…

Peefeeee… on ma mind!

SRK invites 400 barbers for Billu Barber premiere

2009-02-08T23:26:00.000-08:00

SRK is going the Aamir way in promoting his latest flick Billu Barber. Latest buzz is that SRK has invited over 400 barbers to attend the premiere of the flick. This comes amidst the rumors that Hairdressers Association are pestering SRK and gang to change the barber word from the flick’s title.

Priyadarshan, director of the flick says, “Instead of having celebs over for the premiere of Billu Barber, Shah Rukh has planned to invite 400 barbers and their families to the premiere. His idea is to welcome barbers for the premiere on February 12, as the film revolves around Irrfan Khan, who plays a barber. Things are just getting organized for the premiere and the office is also in talks with the barbers’ association to get everything sorted for the big day.”

However Uday Takke, president of Hair Dresser association says, We want Billu Barber to be called Billu Hairdresser as barber is a derogatory and insulting term. We choose hairdressing as a profession because it is an art. Also there are many women hairstylists if Billu Barber becomes a hit, women hairdressers will be called barbers too!”

However SRK on the issue says, “Oh wow! So much for freedom of expression. We have not made this film to disrespect anyone. As a matter of fact, when a title of the film is kept after the protagonist, it is only to honor that character.”

Well we hope that this hairy issue settles down soon!

Source: bollywood.celebden.com

Aamir No Movies For An Year

2009-02-08T23:24:00.000-08:00

After a hectic last year with Ghajini, Aamir has decided to take an year long break from acting once Raj Kumar Hirani’s 3 Idiots is finished.

A source says, , “It is true that Aamir is finally taking a year off after Raj Kumar Hirani’s 3 Idiots is complete. He is currently in Bangalore shooting for the film. Actually, he was planning to take a sabbatical last year after Taare Zameen Par, where the double responsibility of directing and acting sapped him. But then he was coaxed into doing Ghajini and then began his physical reorientation, the muscle-building and body-toning that really exhausted the method actor. But Aamir is now ready to take the long-pending break. He won’t be doing any films for the next one year.”

However Aamir’s production house, Aamir Khan Productions will not be on a break and will keep on working.

Source: bollywood.celebden.com