MOVIE DETAILS
Cast: Tushar Jalota, Mrinalini Sharma, Sushant Singh, Gulshan Grover, Saurabh Shukla
Director: Raju Khan
Producer: Mukesh Bhatt
Music: Lalit Pandit
Lyrics: Sayeed Quadri
THE FILM
Showbiz was the last release of 2008 and came literally unannounced. Bhatts, who are known for promotional blitzkrieg accompanying each of the projects, remained mum till the day film hit the theaters. And when they spoke, focus was around how director debutant Raju Khan had left the film incomplete and others had to chip in to bring the film to the finishing line. Certainly not a positive messaging for a common man to look at the film positively. Result was that the film turned out to be most 'silent' film ever coming out from the production house and failed miserably at the box office.
But was the film that bad to deserve such a fate? Not really!
Dealing with invasion of media on the personal lives of celebrities, Showbiz always ran a risk of catering to a miniscule population. After all not everyone is expected to relate to the functioning of media where PR strategists, gossip columnists, journalists, promoters, news channels and media magnates come together. This Raju Khan film has it all, as a nexus is shown between news channels (ran by Gulshan Grover, Saurabh Shukla) out to boost their TRPs while getting freelance gossip columnists masquerading as journalists (Sushant Singh) on board. A celebrity (Tushar Jalota) becomes a pawn in this game which turns out to be a free for all in the end.
Showbiz has an interesting subject and quite a few moments work in the narrative too, especially the ones where the ugly side of media is showcased. In fact for media people, some of the games being played are easily identifiable too. What sticks out like a sore thumb in the film is the love story though! Relationship shared between Tushar and Mrinalini has absolutely no relevance to the film's plot and bores big time whenever camera focuses on the two of them.
In fact as an actor Tushar has quite some way too go as most of the times he is pretty awkward with only dramatic moments bringing some spark as he manages to carry a few of them well. Otherwise he maintains a deadpan expression throughout. Also, though his character is shown as a celebrity that hardly comes across on screen whether in terms of his body language, mannerisms, dance or facial expressions.
Star of the show is truly Sushant Singh here. In a performance which requires him to go over the top at numerous junctures, he is excellent with his dialogue delivery and cunning expressions. His is the most well etched character as well as he is shown as an out and out black with no semblance of remorse. Saurabh Shukla and Gulshan Grover are controlled too and justify their stature as veterans on the show.
PACKAGING
The film comes in a standard local plastic case with an ordinary cover layout. Since the DVD comes on Moser Baer, don't expect any fancy packaging.
DURATION
The film comes in a single DVD pack with the film's duration being approximately 110 minutes.
SPECIAL FEATURES
The DVD doesn't come with any special features.
TECHNICAL DETAILS
- 16:9 Anamorphic Widescreen format
- Subtitles In English
- 5.1 Dolby Digital
CONCLUSION
After watching Showbiz on DVD, one does feel that the film isn't pathetic as it was made out to be. So is Showbiz a must watch film? No. Is it the kind that makes you stand up and question the media around you? Not really. But does it make you at least sit through those 100 odd minutes once on a lazy afternoon? It does. A reasonably ok movie that does have its dramatic moments, Showbiz is an average fare.
Rating: ** Source: Indiafm.com Features | 22 Feb 2008 | 3:40 pm
A careless whisper accusing Anubhav Sinha of lifting Ajay Devgan's idea for animation film has the filmmaker completely baffled, and amused. "I believe Ajay is making an animation film named Toonpur Ka Superhero. I'm very happy for him. As far as me stealing his idea goes, I'm doing no such thing because I am not making an animation film at all. Someone somewhere started this rumour about me doing an animation film with Shah Rukh Khan. The word spread like wildfire. The film I'm doing with Shah Rukh is a feature film. So where's the point of comparison with Toonpur Ka Superhero?"
The friction between Devgan and Sinha started during the making of the director's cash-and-burn caper Cash. Things came to a point where the actor was quoted as saying he was glad Cash flopped.
Anubhav Sinha certainly won't share that feeling. "I've put Cash behind me. I'm now busy scripting my film for Shah Rukh Khan's production house. In addition I'm now looking into starting several productions this year." Source: Indiafm.com News | 22 Feb 2008 | 3:34 pm
Sanjay Leela Bhansali left for Paris on Sunday to direct an opera for the prestigious Theatre du Chatelet. Very selected filmmakers from the world-over have been invited by what's considered the world's most prestigious opera company. Among filmmakers, thus, invited is Hong Kong's Yimou Zhang of The House Of Flying Daggers. Woody Allen is also expected to direct an opera for Theatre du Chatelet in 2008.
A unique honour for an Asian filmmaker and the honour is given to Sanjay because of the operatic language that he applied so opulently and effectively to Sarat Chandra Chatterjee's Devdas.
Speaking from his 3-bedroom villa in Paris that the repertory has given to the director as his home for the next two months, Sanjay said, "After Saawariya, this is just the break from making movies that I needed. I feel any artiste needs to grow beyond home turf. And the opera has always been one of my favourite forms of musical expression. When the Theatre du Chatelet offered me a chance to direct an opera long before the release of Saawariya, I was in two minds. My entire focus was on the film. But the team from Paris was gentle and persuasive very soon I was hooked."
And why not? Since the Theatre du Chatelet offered him a chance to select his own story for the opera, though the all-French cast was pre-given by the repertory. Sanjay handpicked his team which included his old art- director Omung Kumar, costume designer Rajesh Pratap Singh and most, unusually choreographer Tanushree Shankar (daughter-in-law of the legendary dancer Uday Shankar and wife of the late choreographer-dancer Anand Shankar). Sanjay, a fan of Tanushree's father-in-law's dance ballet on celluloid Kalpana, in fact flew over to Kolkata for several meetings with Tanushree and was convinced that she was the right person to bring alive the vibrant colours and passion of Rajasthan in the French idiom.
"The challenge," says Sanjay "is to preserve the essence of Padmavati while making it connected with the European audience. It's so new and so challenging for me, I'm nervous and exhilarated." There will be six shows of the opera interspersed over March. "I'm already missing home. Two months away from Mumbai is painful. My mother will be joining me next month."
And Sanjay may take a flying visit back home for his birthday on February 24. "But what better birthday gift than to direct an opera for the world's most prestigious opera theatre?" he chuckles having attained creative nirvana. Source: Indiafm.com News | 22 Feb 2008 | 3:23 pm
Saif Ali Khan inscribed lady love 'Kareena' on his hand and the whole world oogled while he tried hard to play Led Zeppelin's rock guitar. Cricketer Usman Afzal followed soon with Amrita (Arora). And now, there's another hot tattoo that's doing the rounds in Bollywood but more for pragmatic-n-professionally stylish reasons. Harman Baweja reportedly has got a big 'V' tattooed on his back. When Bollywood Hungama called up the hunk, he confirmed the news but politely apologized stating he has been asked not to speak to the press yet. Considering his big debut Love Story 2050 is awaiting release, we guess it's understandable.
Baweja's business manager, Gauri Malhotra, stated that the tattoo is meant for Harman's under production Victory. âHarman is having a big V on his back in the centre. It's a painted tattoo. It's just one of those elements in the film that heightens the character,â Gauri says. Ajit Pal, director of Victory added, âV stands for his character name Vijay. It also stands for Victory which is the title of the film.â Harman is also having Vijay inscribed in Devnagri (Hindi) script on his hand as well. Were you inspired by Saif's Kareena tattoo? âAbsolutely not. In smaller towns names are generally engraved on the hands. It is inspired from reality,â Ajit refuted.
Victory is the tale of a young man from Jaisalmer who goes on to become one of the biggest cricketers in the world. âIt is based on modern cricket.â Ajit said. An added attraction to the premise of Victory is the presence of lots of world cricketers like Wasim Akram, Ravi Shastri, Brett Lee etc. With IPL bidding creating news world over and with presence of cricketers from all the cricket playing nations in your film, do we see a league system being created in Victory to create a novelty value? âVictory is as contemporary as IPL,â Ajit Pal signs off. Source: Indiafm.com News | 22 Feb 2008 | 12:45 pm
He is known as 'The Midas Touch Man', 'Bollywood's Master-Blaster' and 'Destiny's favourite Director'. He is the undoubtedly the eternal 'son-shine' of Bollywood. Haling from the illustrious family of the Barjatyas, Sooraj made his presence felt with his very first film, Maine Pyaar Kiya; a movie that went on to create new records! This was followed by an even bigger hit, Hum Aapke Hai Kaun, which is considered as one of Bollywood's biggest blockbusters of all time.
Today is Sooraj's B-Day and the way he made careers of some actors come alive, we at Bollywood Hungama, would want you to make this day come alive by posting your good wishes for him. Source: Indiafm.com News | 22 Feb 2008 | 11:02 am
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in Madhya Pradesh Friday suspended the screening of 'Jodhaa Akbar', a week after the Hindi film's release. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 22 Feb 2008 | 11:00 am
Danny Boyle, the internationally acclaimed film maker is not too impressed with the 'Bollywood ka Badshah' SRK! The Bitch reports that when Danny Boyle was hell-bound in casting either Big B or Shahrukh Khan to play the talk show host in his international movie Slumdog Millionaire as the two big ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 22 Feb 2008 | 10:55 am
Three film old Upen Patel (Shakalaka Boom Boom, Namastey London and 36 China Town) is gearing up for his fourth release, One Two Three. However, the young actor insists that he merely has a guest appearance in the film.
"It's not a full on appearance as many believe. One Two Three is centered on three characters played by Sunil Shetty, Tusshar Kapoor and Paresh Rawal, with a common name Laxmi Narayan. I am mainly present for one song and a few scenes", clarifies Upen.
Promos of Ashwani Dheer directed One Two Three are out and though they last as much as 120 seconds, Upen doesn't feature prominently in any of the close shots. Is he disappointed? "Not really", shrugs Upen, "As I said, the film doesn't revolve around me. I am happy with the project. It's a good set up to be a part of."
Getting into a pensive mood, Upen says, "Sometimes I am not too sure what some folks decide to talk or write about me. Even though I am happy with the way things are looking up in my career, at times there is a certain negative energy that seems to engulf me. I am still trying to figure out why, where and how does it get generated."
How does he cope up with unwanted negative attention that he encounters sometimes? "I am a fighter and I know things will happen well for me. That may not happen immediately but it certainly would be the case eventually. I am not someone who can break so easily."
Even with two successes under his belt (36 China Town, Namastey London), doesn't it pain to see himself being considered as an outsider? "Why won't it be", counter questions Upen, "Ok, so I wasn't the main lead in both the films but nevertheless had an important part to play. Also, in case the films wouldn't have worked, would I have been let off?"
"Thankfully, I am not working with small time filmmakers or actors ever since I stepped into Bollywood. For a rank outsider like me, I guess I am quite content to be rubbing shoulders with the likes of Akshay Kumar, Akshaye Khanna, Suneel Darshan, Abbas-Mustan, Subhash Ghai, Kumar Mangat and the likes. I can't be dismissed as my time has just begun."
After One Two Three, Upen Patel would soon be seen in Kumar Mangat's next production Money Hain To Honey Hain. Directed by Ganesh Acharya, the film features him along with Govinda, Celina Jaitley, Manoj Bajpai, Hansika Motwani and Isha Koppikar. Reportedly, he has also been signed by Suneel Darshan for two upcoming projects though a formal announcement is still awaited. Source: Indiafm.com Features | 22 Feb 2008 | 10:51 am
There's much reason to rejoice in the Khan household. Even as Sussanne Roshan prepares for motherhood a second time, brother Zayed is over-the-moon with his first-time parenthood. "I've named my son Zidaan , it means son. His naming was put to vote and we all opted for Zidaan. It feels ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 22 Feb 2008 | 10:48 am
For every beauty, there is an eye somewhere to see it. For every truth, there is an ear somewhere to hear it. For every love, there is a heart somewhere to receive it. And for every combination of the above, there are multitudes of fans to experience it! Nothing can ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 22 Feb 2008 | 10:48 am
Hold on to your breath as Himesh Reshammiya would be performing live at Filmfare awards in Mumbai this Saturday.
He has completed shooting for his portion in Karzzzz in Johannesburg and is returning to Mumbai. Within a few hours of touching the city, he would go straight into Filmfare awards where his new look would be revealed in front of a live audience.
Says a unit member of Karzzzz, "Himesh is demonstrating great energy without showing any signs of stress or discomfort. He has been shooting non-stop for the movie and now without even catching a breather, he is all set to come up with a performance in front of industry big wigs."
He adds, "There is already a great curiosity around his new look and the film in particular ever since the pictures from the film's shoot have been revealed. Now with Himesh personally stopping over in India for a brief stint, there is bound to be high curiosity around his visit."
Himesh Reshammiya would continue to live out of suitcases though. Once done with his performance, he would be taking a flight to Cape Town on February 25. That would kick start the second schedule of Karzzzz which is already being wrapped up with good pace.
Informs the crew member, "Everyone is quite happy with the way film is currently shaping up. Himesh's new lean look is being appreciated too and his weight loss has been an amazing story. We just shot for a song for the film and the chemistry between Himesh and the new girl, Shweta Kumar, has been established well as well. Inshallah, Karzzzz should be most talked about film once the producers decide to announce the release date."
A T-Series film, Karzzzz, also stars Urmila Matondkar, Danny Denzongpa, Gulshan Grover, Rohini Hattangadi and Bakhtiyaar Irani. Source: Indiafm.com News | 22 Feb 2008 | 10:44 am
A slight (apparent) alteration in life story of Emperor Akbar and Queen Jodhaa Bai and you will find people up in arms, as experienced in the past few days. But on a more genuine note, whom would a film like Jodhaa Akbar really affect? Historians, revolutionists, Royal family or state. ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 22 Feb 2008 | 10:43 am
There's much reason to rejoice in the Khan household. Even as Sussanne Roshan prepares for motherhood a second time, brother Zayed is over-the-moon with his first-time parenthood. "I've named my son Zidaan , it means son. His naming was put to vote and we all opted for Zidaan. It feels very strange and yet very comforting to have someone come in and usurp me as the baby of the family. I enjoyed it while it lasted. But now I want to pass the baton on. There're many perks to being the baby of the family. But there're an equal number of disincentives. I was tired of being the family's center of attraction. I was a very loved child. All my family, parents, aunts, sisters pampered me. I'm a lucky guy. I can't complain."
The new father's joy brims over. âThe three most defining moments in a guy's life are, when his father calls him his son, when the woman he loves call him her husband and when his child calls him father. I've gone through all these defining moments. My parents are ecstatic. Words cannot express their happiness. My Dad says, 'My third copy is out.' In fact, our entire house is being re-done for him. It's been a long time since any renovation was done in the house. But we never had any incentive. He came home on Wednesday Jan 23. We had a welcome-home ceremony done for him."
Moving reluctantly to work, Zayed describes the "fantastic schedule" in Turkey for Mission Istanbul. "It's all about working with like-minded people. Yes, I did some audacious action including jumping down a high-rise. There was no choice. My character required me to get seriously audacious. And I did. We took a lot of precautions. But I told my director, Apoorva Lakhia, that we need to give the audience their money's worth. As a kid I remember how thrilled I used to be watching my father and Mr. Amitabh Bachchan do all those daredevil stunts. Today's audience has seen so much more of the international cinema. We have to give them international-level action. If you see Chinese cinema, it takes action to another level"
Zayed admits he was terrified doing the heart-in-the-mouth stunts. "Anything that happens for the first time, be it fatherhood or stunts, scares you. I asked our action guys to show me exactly what they wanted. I really practiced hard before taking the plunge. Apoorva's film believes in very high-octane stunts. Apu's a hyper guy. Very passionate and spirited."
But Zayed had to keep the action away from his parents. âI hid the truth of the stunts from my family as much as possible. Being the son and husband and father-to-be, I had to spare them the anxiety." Zayed admits he had verbal spats with his director on the sets. "By the end of the day we sometimes didn't talk to one another but canned some terrific shots." Source: Indiafm.com Features | 22 Feb 2008 | 10:37 am
Britney Spears` self-styled manager Sam Lutfi was served with a restraining order on Thursday ordering him to stay at least 250 yards (metres) away from the singer and barring him from communicating with her, according to court documents. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 22 Feb 2008 | 10:30 am
Hollywood icon George Clooney has written off his chances of winning the best actor prize at Sunday`s Academy Awards, branding himself the "Hillary Clinton of the Oscars." Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 22 Feb 2008 | 10:30 am
When the producers of "Ratatouille" started making their movie, they wondered who in their right mind would pay to see an animated tale about a rat cooking in a high-class French restaurant. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 22 Feb 2008 | 10:30 am
They may be lacking from this year`s Oscar best film list to be awarded Sunday, but a new US survey shows war and sci-fi epics top the list of all-time favorite movies. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 22 Feb 2008 | 10:30 am
A story of justice, honour, faith and above all believing in yourself. A story of finding courage within… where friendships are tested in the battle which maters the most… the battle for truth and justice… Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 22 Feb 2008 | 10:29 am
The fascination persists. She has survived fads and fashion swings…and has preserved her alluring persona by the manner in which she has chosen to dress, behave and lead her everyday life…early-to-bed-early-to-rise. Thumbing down lucrative endorsement deals and TV shows galore, she is the big screen star actress. Perhaps it's impossible ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 22 Feb 2008 | 10:18 am
The Rajendra Prasad-starrer Mee Sreyobhilashi, directed by Eswar Reddy, presented by C.C. Reddy and produced by Y. Sonia Reddy under the banner of Visu Films completed half-century (50 days) and a function was held to mark the occasion. Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 22 Feb 2008 | 10:14 am
Post-production works were complete for Bhargava, directed by Perarasu and produced by G. Bharatkumar under the banner of Nikhilesh Art Productions and Venkata Sivasai Films with Bharath and Kajal in the lead. The film was released in Tamil as Pazhani during Pongal. Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 22 Feb 2008 | 10:00 am
The hotshots of Bollywood are now part of the who's who of cricket as well. While Shahrukh Khan had got the ownership of Kolkata franchise, Preity Zinta got Mohali franchise, few weeks back to form their cricket teams. The bidding for the players opened a couple of days ago. Among ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 22 Feb 2008 | 9:53 am
Genelia is going to team up with ML Kumar Choudhary's son Ravi. It was reported earlier that eminent producer ML Kumar Choudhary was planning to introduce his son Ravi in Telugu cinema. The film is now going to materialize shortly. Paruchuri Murali of Pedababau and Andhrudu fame will direct this film. ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 22 Feb 2008 | 9:39 am
A new film on Tamil leader Pasumpon Muthuramalingam Thevar will throw light on his close association with Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and his claim that he met the Indian revolutionary in 1956, more than 10 years after Netaji was reportedly killed in a plane crash over Taiwan. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 22 Feb 2008 | 5:32 am
'Yeduta nilichindi choodu' from 'Vaana' continues to be on top of the charts this fortnight too. The list is more or less the same as the last one with the exception of a song from 'Ontari' entering at second place. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 22 Feb 2008 | 5:31 am
Bollywood director-actor Rajat Kapoor says women might play ornamental roles in reel life but they are more powerful than men in real life. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 22 Feb 2008 | 4:02 am
'Krishna', a Makar Sankranti release, continues to be in the first place on the Telugu film charts. 'Swagatham', released three weeks ago, is in the second position. 'Mr. Medhavi' and 'Ontari' are the new entrants. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 22 Feb 2008 | 4:01 am
Writer-director Anees Bazmi, who delivered one of the biggest hits of 2007 with 'Welcome', is angry and upset that his film was released in Pakistan and he didn't even know about it, and also how it was mutilated. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 22 Feb 2008 | 4:00 am
'Rang De Basanti' actor Siddharth says he is ready to play a gay role because he feels sexual orientation is a natural and personal choice. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 22 Feb 2008 | 4:00 am
MUMBAI (Reuters) - Top Bollywood songwriters say the quality of lyrics in Hindi films has vastly improved as filmmakers gravitate towards sensitive and realistic cinema.
UTV Global Broadcasting Limited (UGBL), the broadcast arm of UTV Software Communications Ltd, today announced an agreement with Sun Direct Private Limited for its DTH platform. With this, all five channels from the UGBL bouquet would be available on the latter’s DTH platform Sun Direct with immediate effect. Source: IndiaGlitz.com - News | 22 Feb 2008 | 12:00 am
Ajay Devgan’s directorial debut U,Me Aur Hum has already been creating the required buzz. The movie will see Ajay Devgan and wife Kajol come together after Raju Chacha. The expectations from this film have been running high right from the nascent stage. Source: IndiaGlitz.com - News | 22 Feb 2008 | 12:00 am
This is to inform all the channels/ media that the dispute between M/s Super Cassettes Industries Ltd and M/s. Vishesh Films Pvt. Ltd., with regard to the ownership of Audio/ Audio visual rights of the songs of the feature film JANNAT- IN SEARCH OF HEAVEN has been resolved amicably with the intervention of Mr. Pahlaj Nihalani ( President, AMPTPP) and Dispute Settlement Committee members in the Source: IndiaGlitz.com - News | 22 Feb 2008 | 12:00 am
Seems like almost all the directors these days want to make at least one historical film for themselves. A few days back there was news doing the rounds that Shyam Benegal, who has many Indian and international awards to his credit was going to make a film on Buddha, and there were talks going on with the Roshan scion Hrithik for doing the protagonist’s role. Source: IndiaGlitz.com - News | 22 Feb 2008 | 12:00 am
Sony Television office yesterday saw the press meet for K for Kishore. K for Kishore is a Sony Television reality show. Source: IndiaGlitz.com - News | 22 Feb 2008 | 12:00 am
While shooting for Rakesh Roshans Krazzy 4, directed by Jaideep (raja) Sen, a certain scene required a dog to bite or rather ferociously pull Arshad Warsis pants and the mayhem that followed was hilarious to the core! Source: IndiaGlitz.com - News | 22 Feb 2008 | 12:00 am
Adlabs, a member of the Reliance Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group, is the only integrated movie and entertainment company in India with a presence in production of films, TV content and animation, film processing and services, domestic and international distribution of content and the largest cinema chain in the country. Adlabs enjoys a dominant position in all its business segments. Source: IndiaGlitz.com - News | 22 Feb 2008 | 12:00 am
‘Jodhaa Akbar’ the epic of Ashutosh Gowarikar that hit theaters a couple of weeks back is doing a great show and getting very positive feedback from the audience. Source: IndiaGlitz.com - News | 22 Feb 2008 | 12:00 am
There was a time when most of the movies getting released had a sultry number by a special appearance from an ‘Item’ girl. Many Bollywood beauties from Bipasha Basu to Aishwarya Rai have entertained the audience with their item numbers. These songs were a special attraction to the movie goers. Source: IndiaGlitz.com - News | 22 Feb 2008 | 12:00 am
Click above for more stills
The 'hotshots' of Bollywood are now part of the who's who of cricket as well. While Shah Rukh Khan had got the ownership of Kolkatta franchise, Preity Zinta got Mohali franchise, few weeks back to form their cricket teams. The bidding for the players opened yesterday. Among the bidders were other biggies like Vijay Mallya, Mukesh Ambani and the likes, who own other IPL franchises. However, the investment of B-town stars in the Indian Premier League (IPL) has surely added on to the glamour quotient.
After Preity's 'bhangra' performance and SRK making 'cool' uniforms for his team, came the 'D' day of the actual bidding for players. On February 20, Wednesday, the bidding began and stopped at nothing less than millions. Shah Rukh got Sourav Ganguly, Shoaib Akhtar, Ricky Ponting, Brendon McCullum, Chris Gayle, Ajit Agarkar, David Hussey, Ishant Sharma, Murali Karthik, Umar Gul, and Tatenda Taibu in his Kolkatta team. On the other hand, Yuvraj Singh, Irfan Pathan, Brett Lee, Kumar Sangakkara, Sree Santh, Mahela Jayawardene, Piyush Chawla, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Simon Katich, and Ramesh Powar formed the players of Preity's team, Mohali.
However, what took the cake was the whooping amount of money that was paid to the players. Among all the cricketers, M S Dhoni walked with the maximum amount of 6 Crores, which is almost 17 times more of what he makes playing for India. The other four players who took the crème of the cake were Symonds, Jayasuria, Ishant, and Irfan.
But will this maths and long term planning work for their respective teams is what time will tell usâ¦until then IPL Twenty20 is the next most awaited thing of the year. Source: Indiafm.com News | 21 Feb 2008 | 4:46 pm
For every beauty, there is an eye somewhere to see it. For every truth, there is an ear somewhere to hear it. For every love, there is a heart somewhere to receive it. And for every combination of the above, there are multitudes of fans to experience it! Nothing can be more apt to describe the beauty of the doe eyed beauty of Bong-lass called Koena Mitra!
The recent issue of Gladrags acts as a thermometer to check the amount of heat that this chic can generates! Do not believe us? Then, check the cover where this hot beauty adorns a two-piece, which provides enough heat to set the water on fire!
Koena speaks about her international project that's tentatively titled Karna, which will have her as India's answer to the Wonder Woman!
If all this makes you tempted enough to get up, close and personal to this lady, then, beware, as she is undergoing excessive training in Tai Chi and other martial arts for this film! Source: Indiafm.com Features | 21 Feb 2008 | 4:27 pm
In a short span of 6 years, Siddharth has acquired the reputation of being ultra-choosy. And that's the way he likes it. Beginning with the Tamil cult
hit, Boys, in 2003, Siddharth came to Hindi cinema and Rang De Basanti with just a meager body of work in Tamil and Telugu. Now that
he has signed a new Hindi film, the finicky actor says he's still in no hurry to get anywhere. Today after much dillydallying Siddharth has said yes to
another Hindi project after apparently having said no to a prestigious project like Dilli 6. What makes this actor say 'Yes' to Chandan Arora and
a 'No' to Rakeysh Mehra?
You're finally doing another Hindi film after Rang De Basanti. What took you so long to select another film?
The fact that I took so long to start a film after Rang De Basanti seems to surprise everyone but me. I specifically said after Rang De
Basanti that I would not do anything unless I am completely excited by it. It has taken me 2 years to find a Hindi film that I think I should do as
opposed to having people tell me what they want to see me doing. Now all that is left to do is to stand by that decision and to give it its worth, and
that's the really exciting part.
It has taken me 2 years to find a Hindi film that I think I should do as opposed to having people
tell me what they want to see me doing
Whether it's the South or in Mumbai, you've acquired the reputation of being extra-picky. Are you just being cautious about your career?
People often tell me I take myself too seriously. I think I could still do more. If I don't take myself seriously, no one else is going to either. I want to
look back at my career and see hunger for excellence and conviction as being the root cause for selecting each of my films. I think my filmography
reads as sensible, and that's pretty good for a 6 year old career. Be it Telugu cinema or Hindi, I am here to stay, and I would rather achieve that with
one good film at a time, as opposed to a barrage of mediocrity just to stay in circulation.
If I don't take myself seriously, no one else is going to either
Now finally there is Striker in Hindi. What made you choose this assignment among all the ones that came to you?
I was waiting to find a director whose voice and vision excited me as much as I believed it would excite an audience. Hindi cinema is in a place where
nobody knows where the next sea change is going to come from. Chandan Arora's script made me think that Striker has a fantastic chance of
being a very important film. His integrity impressed me. It's a beautiful film. I am really looking forward to the challenge of complementing such a
compelling script with my performance.
Hindi cinema is in a place where nobody knows where the next sea change is going to come
from
Are you a carom player in real life? Chandan tells me, you've been mastering the game, lingo and the real-life character's personality. Do you
think non-fictional characters should be replicated or should they be played according to the actor and director's independent interpretation?
I think it is inappropriate to get into details of the performance at such an early stage. To address it very briefly, I think that real life characters that
the people haven't observed closely makes it possible for huge liberties to be taken while depicting them on screen. That is both a convenient and a
challenging prospect at the same time. It's convenient because you 'can' make it up, and challenging because you 'have' to make it up.
Whether it's the South or the North, you're known for selected screen appearances. Isn't there a danger of being under-exposed?
I believe any exposure is exposure. The words 'under' and 'over' are used in the future when looking back. My career span isn't long enough just yet
to make that analysis. As of now, I think I am getting my exposure, and that is a relief. It's better than doing no work at all.
How is your Southern career doing? Are you getting the roles that satisfy your aesthetics?
I have achieved critical and mass acceptance in Telugu. It is hugely satisfying because I have done it my way, and have done so in an industry
considered to be very hostile to male actors from outside the state. However, my fans there have never once let me feel like a Tamilian. I am and
always will be their very own Telugu boy. I have commissioned my own films and been part of everything from writing to crew selection from my very
first film. My identity as a thinking Telugu actor gives me great joy.
What about in Mumbai. What after Striker? Any other Hindi assignments?
I worked with Vishal Bhardwaj on a short film Blood Brothers on the subject of AIDS. It was more important for me to associate myself with
that film based on what it wanted to achieve, than with the myriad other offers that might have been big commercial studio success stories. I mention
this to give myself a fair idea of how to go about selecting work. I am accountable both to myself and to the people who see my work. I will start a
new film as soon as I know that I won't be letting that faith down.
When I am unemployed, I go to my parents for shelter
What prompted you to accept Vishal's Blood Brothers as your follow-up to Rang De Basanti in Hindi?
In the year following Rang De Basanti, I went back to Hyderabad and did two hugely successful Telugu films. I decided to take a break for six
months and travel. That's when Vishal called. I worked on the film because of the cause it stood for and because I was excited about working with
Vishal Bhardwaj and the Oscar-winning cinematographer Guillermo Navarro.
Do you feel like a fish out of water in Mumbai? How do you intend to divide your time between Chennai and Mumbai? Or will Chennai continue to
be home?
I have no emotional attachment with any city. I have been living out of a suitcase for over 4 years now. Home for me is where I am working at any
given point of time. When I am unemployed, I go to my parents for shelter. I see this ritual continuing for a while to come. Source: Indiafm.com Features | 21 Feb 2008 | 1:41 pm
The fascination persists. She has survived fads and fashion swingsâ¦and has preserved her alluring persona by the manner in which she has chosen to dress, behave and lead her everyday lifeâ¦early-to-bed-early-to-rise. Thumbing down lucrative endorsement deals and TV shows galore, she is the big screen star actress. Perhaps it's impossible to know her entirely. But that doesn't prevent Khalid Mohamed from donning his interviewing uniform on a Sunday to learn some more about the heart and mind of Rekha
Venue: Sea Bird, a rigidly dusted and polished office room facing the sedate Bandra Sea.
How's your Sunday been?
No different from any day. Every day is an extension of my growth, of everything I've become and want to become. Now you'll ask me what I want to become.
What do you want to become?
The best of myself.
Why this obsession with 'myself'?
(Animatedly) I, me, myself! Tell me, why not? I've always been that way, it has worked for me. Aakhir jaan hai to jahaan hai. I don't do this intentionally, I amâ¦that's it.
Isn't this extremely narcissistic?
It starts that way. Maybe beauty lies in the eye of the beholder, in oneself. So what? I don't care if it's said she's on some sort of spiritual trip, she's obscure, vague, not normalâ¦she wants to be different. I am not so differentâ¦people don't want to be common or normal. They have put me on a high pedestalâ¦or think I am alienâ¦orâ¦
You've known various generations of stars. Has anyone else thought this way? Tell me of three such persons.
Why just three? I know so many who have achieved a lot in many fields. Why make comparisons? Why talk only of actors? Take my bai, she had eight kids before she was 30. She's expected to be different by her family, strongerâ¦the same way my life and experiences have taught me to be different.
Ever compare yourself with Meena Kumari?
Jeeeee? Not in any which way. I don't have her background, her culture, her body of work. She was truly a legend, truly mysterious. I've just been given titles - she's a mystery, an enigma, beautiful, inaccessible, invincibleâ¦but I'm not any of that.
So how come you never allow me into your house?
The answer's so simple. By hook or by crook, those who mustâ¦find their way. My privacy's worked better than any screenplay. Anything connected with my work, the producers meet hereâ¦no one comes into my house except family.
What's your bedroom like?
Like me! Basic, simple, real, extremely comforting, unique, warm and aesthetically attractive. Yet it's common, very normal. It just has a bed, I am a big girl, quite tall, and I need a big bed.
King-sized bed?
No.
Queen-sized then?
No somewhere between king-and queen-sized.
What kind of a bed is it?
(Straight-faced) Upholstered.
Which is the best bed that you've ever slept in?
My mamma's gadi.
How many mirrors in your house?
Are you making me out to be a Fedora? I am not good at numbers. There couldn't be more than one in every room.
Do you remember that much-discussed magazine photograph of yours kissing a mirror?
That was an innocent moment suggested by Gautam (Rajadhyaksha). That wasn't me. That degree of self-possession could drive anyone crazy.
You've seen so much in the last four decades. Aren't you quite shyaani?
I wish I were⦠(pause). No I take that back. I am not shyaani. After going through so much in life, I still trust people.
What do you mean by 'going through so mush in life'...except maybe the marriage to Mukesh Agarwal that didn't work out?
What do you know? Only what is published. One goes through a private hell every day. Just because one chooses not to announce the gory details. Today, it's all about give and take, take and giveâ¦what's-in-it-for-me...networking. Throats can be cut backs can be stabbed. I don't want to sound pessimisticâ¦but all this is more intense than ever before⦠(Trails off). Mostly, we create our own hells.
Hell? When did you go through that?
There was a point⦠when I was really in hell, in a cesspool, a dark pit⦠or so it seemed at that time.
In the public mind, there has always been an association with Mr. Amitabh Bachchan. Wouldn't you like this to end?
(Unfazed) Why? I hope not. Mr. Bachchan is one of the best things to have happened in my life. The best teacher, the best guruâ¦
How come the best guru, when you haven't interacted with him in years?
Well, I've chosen to learn as much from his off-cameraâ¦as from his on-camera demeanors.
How come you wore sindoor in your maang at a wedding reception recently, immediately setting off a big buzz.
Ogawd!!! I was going there straight from a film shooting⦠and I don't worry about people's reactions. By the way, I think it looks rather nice on meâ¦sindoor suits me.
Cool. In 2008, how is Ma'am Rekha perceived?
I've never been into yeh film usko mil rahi hai, her colleagues are doing so much now. I am not about why she's doing what on TV? Or why's she doing that endorsement? That has never mattered to me. My needs are basic but profound. Foremost, I am a woman, an actor next. I could have been a littlie puppyâ¦who knows? I'm blessed that I have received so much adulation, unconditional respect, so many prayers. I couldn't have asked for more.
You feel you've done it all?
Never. Like Dilip (Kumar) saab said on receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award, it feels as if it had all happened to someone else. Take my fun side; it was only brought out by Hrishida (Mukherjee) in Khubsurat. There's so much more about me to explore and express.
Who are your three best friends?
Farzana, Surinder Makanâ¦she's in Delhiâ¦and a certain friend who's obscure, a godly figure.
Ohhhhh⦠Mr Bachchan?
(Unfazed) He's not God. Human beings cannot be given the stature of God.
Let's go to what you are up to professionally.
I sleepwalk through everything I do I am doing Sadiyaan with Hemaji (Malini), I'm playing Rishi Kapoor's wife⦠the film introduces Shatruji's son Luv.
Weren't you supposed to be in a film by Hema Malini?
Yes, it's to be directed by Revathy with Esha and me. I am ready to do the film whenever they are ready.
There have been efforts to make you the Oprah Winfrey of Indian television, right?
Ogawd!!! I am not delusional. I am nowhere close to her. In any case, in my country I'd be expected to be a million Oprahs⦠and some more.
Would you be able to do a Kaun Banega Crorepati kind of show?
No... Though I've been offered many shows on the same lines.
Why have you avoided endorsements?
I've to still find an alternative medium through which I could give, what my fans expect me to. This is the era of tucks and nipsâ¦not my route. I don't believe in shortcuts.
What about your much-anticipated biography?
No biography can reach the real picture. See Dilip saabâ¦he's an allah ka banda. He's never contrived anything. He has never done ads. He has been himself. That's what I'd like to be.
What about a Rekha concert?
I've done concerts twice in my lifeâ¦in '87 and '97. Maybe this is the year to start planning a concertâ¦it has to be done right. I don't want to be running all over the place like a headless chicken.
Okay, tell meâ¦why haven't you ever tried to adopt a child?
Because it is the hardest job ever. I know what it is to be deprived of a father's love. I would want a child to have both parents. That's why I've never thought of adoptionâ¦or of having a child out of wedlock.
I believe you're promoting your nephew from San Francisco, Naveed, as a prospective hero.
Who me? He wants to be an actor.
Does he have what it takes?
I am bound to be biased about him⦠how can I say anything more? Personally, I'd say a gentle soul.
Any other members of your family who have acting potential?
Lots, all of themâ¦all 14 of them. Even my grandmas have had the potential to be super-duper actors.
And so what else could I ask you?
(Lightens up) Nothing. You've asked all the questions I didn't want you to ask. Source: Indiafm.com Features | 21 Feb 2008 | 1:11 pm
Writer-director Anees Bazmee who delivered one of the biggest hits of 2007, Welcome, is very angry and upset by the fate of his film in Pakistam. Speaking on the subject, Anees said, "I had no clue my Welcome was to be released in Pakistan! Nobody told me anything about itâ¦not even producer Feroz Nadiadwala. I guess once I direct and deliver a film it's no longer my intellectual or commercial property. Fair enough. But what was the harm if I was told about such a big event in my life as filmmaker?"
Not too many Indian films have been released in Pakistan. There was Akbar Khan Saab's Taj Mahal and Bhatt Saab's Awaraapan. Both had a connection with Pakistan. Says Anees, "Welcome had no relevance to people across the border except entertainment. So yes, I'd have loved to be part of its release there. It's sad that I got to know about it through my friends in Pakistan. I agree I was out of the country working on my script. But I was just a phone call away."
What hurt and offended Anees even more was that one of his main characters played by Feroz Khan has been totally obliterated in Pakistan. "I understand Feroz Khan Saab had some problems with the local authorities in Pakistan when he visited there and made some remarks they didn't like. But why should my film suffer for that? His role is very important in Welcome. He's there for nearly an hour of the film's 2-hour playing time. By cutting his track in the plot, you're reducing my film to incoherency! I find that hard to accept."
Ironically, pirated DVDs of Welcome with the ostensibly offensive portions featuring Feroz Khan flooded the Pakistani market months weeks before the film's official release in the country.
Fumes Anees, "I don't know why I wasn't taken into confidence about the release, or how the film could've been re-edited so drastically without my consent. I understand distributors have their own compulsions and demands. But my film can't be mutilated for political purposes." Source: Indiafm.com News | 21 Feb 2008 | 11:22 am
Sony BMG has forayed into the Tamil music market by acquiring the music rights of Kamal Haasan's most talked-about movie 'Dasavatharam', in which he plays 10 different roles. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 21 Feb 2008 | 11:00 am
