Remember that powerhouse performance by 9-year old Ayesha Kapoor as the blind deaf and untamable Michelle in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Black? The stunningly pretty child is regarded by many as the best child actor to ever emerge from Indian cinema. Preity Zinta certainly thinks so. She desperately wanted Ayesha to play the younger Preity in Jahnu Baruah's Har Pall. "She has my dimples and she has the talent. My God! I saw what she did in Black. I've worked with blind children and Ayesha knew exactly how blind kids behave. When you can't see, there's no control over the eyeballs. How Ayesha got that right, is a puzzle to me."
Preity for all her praise couldn't get Ayesha to play her childhood portions. Madhavan is the lucky guy to have got the chance to work with the Black enchantress. "It's a film that Piyush Jha (of the diasporic dramas King Of Hollywood and Chalo America fame) is making. Ayesha is on and I'm really looking forward to working with her," says Maddy who will have good friend Sanjay Suri for company.
The film expected to take off at year-end is set against the backdrop of Kashmiri militancy. Ayesha with her glowing complexion and flowing tresses will play a spirited Kashmiri girl and Farzan Dastoor as a Kashmiri footballer. "So I guess after Black, Ayesha gets to do one more very challenging role. Child actors of today have a lot more to do than just act cute and cuddly. In films like Tare Zameen Par and Cheeni Kum, the child actor shared a one-to-one relationship with the protagonist," explains Maddy whose son Vedant occupies all his attention.âI know how to connect with kids, thanks to my son. Even the slightest fever in Vedant brings all of us down. Vedant has the flu right now. And all of us are worried to death." Source: Indiafm.com News | 6 May 2008 | 4:10 pm
Truly, Rang De Basanti worked for Rensil D'Silva. Post Rang De⦠Rensil has been on a spree of writing films. There's no looking back for this writer who is multi talented and highly creative. Experimenting with genres, he has managed to write almost all genres including romance, comedy, drama, social and now action.
Rensil is now all set to write an action film. "I am writing a film for Arjun Rampal for his production company 'Chasing Ganesha'. We are still in search of a director. It is an action film," says Rensil D'Silva. In addition to this, he is also writing scripts for some big names in the industry. "I am writing a film for Mani Ratnam which will star Abhishek and Aishwarya. It is a romantic film and the film is expected to go on floors by October this year." Also going on floor in October is David Dhawan's directorial venture for UTV. "For David Dhawan's film, only John has been finalized, we are still looking out for the female cast." The most fascinating part is that the genre of this film will be drama.
Surely, Rensil has a lot on his mind as he is also writing Rakeysh Om Prakash Mehra's next titled Paanch Kaurav. "The film will go on floors next year as Rakeysh is busy with Delhi 6." Rensil has also written Ashtavinayak's Luck starring Imran Khan, Sanjay Dutt, and Danny.
Apart from all the writing, Rensil would also be making his directorial debut soon under Dharma Productions. "I am directing a film for Karan Johar starring Kareena, Saif, and Vivek. It is a romantic thriller and I have also written," says D'Silva. Source: Indiafm.com News | 6 May 2008 | 4:07 pm
She is one of the hottest Bong beauties we have in Bollywood. While her moves and grooves in the sizzling item number in Musafir had everyone asking for more, her con-girl act in Ek Khiladi Ek Haseena did surprise quite a few. Her last film release Apna Sapna Money Money did make quite a lot of money at the Box-Office but since then we haven't seen much of her. Yes, we are talking about the sizzling hot Koena Mitra who is back with a bang with a line-up of exciting releases this year. In this no-hold barred interview with Bollywood Hungama, Koena discusses her plans for 2008 and much more.
It's been a while since one has heard from you⦠How has been the New Year so far?
New Year has been good. It started out well. On New Year's Eve I was performing in Sahara Star. Every New Year a lot of people prefer partying and getting drunk, I don't say that's wrong but I don't really have to find a particular day to party. Moreover, if I'm at work and making money out of it and doing something that I love what better way to start the New Year. In fact, Tanushree and I were performing together and after the show got over we went to Mount Mary Church and it was really a beautiful experience. So, the year took off really well and this year, I have couple of exciting projects that I am looking forward to.
You last film release Apna Sapna Money Money released way back in Nov 06? They say out of sight is out of mindâ¦Don't you think you have been missing for a long time now?
I don't really think so because to do good things you need to have patience. Things happen overnight for few lucky people but for others like me, there is a lot of hard work to be done and I don't see anything wrong in that, because at the end of the day it gives you immense satisfaction when your work is appreciated after all the effort you have put in. A lot of people ask me that why you always take time to decide on projects? I always feel that it's better to learn from other's mistakes rather than your own mistakes. Hence, I would prefer working with good banners and good directors even if it takes time, as long as it benefits me at the end of the day.
I would prefer working with good banners and good directors even if it takes time, as long as it benefits me at the end of the day.
Have you made a conscious decision to distance yourself from the media?
Not really. I have never done that. I have always been nice to the media when they have come to me. At times they write without knowing the fact. They do write certain stories which are not true but you cant jump and answer them every time, you can't be doing that all your life. So I take myself, far away from them and I give them the liberty to write what they want. Because I believe good story or bad story, nothing is going to affect your career. It cannot make you a star and cannot destroy you. So I think they are doing their job and I'm doing my job. It's a part and parcel of every celebrity's life. One has to learn to accept it and live with it.
This year is also special considering you have your first international project Karna coming up. Could you tell us a little about the film?
Yes, Karna is one of the most exciting projects that I have been a part of. I have done months of rigorous training and preparation and I'm sure its going to pay off. The best thing about the role is you see a feminine side and yet she is doing action, martial art, kick boxing etc. So this mix of my character having a real feminine side, yet kicking some butt makes her look really sexy and interesting.
In Karna my character has a real feminine side, yet kicking some butt makes her look really sexy and interesting
What is your character in the film and how did you bag this film?
I play a village girl who is born with superpowers, so the director basically wanted an Indian face who would look equally sexy as a village girl and even when she later on becomes a superwoman. So as a village girl you will see me in a look that is very earthy with really beautiful jewellery etc and at the same time she is completely in shape as the superwoman.
How was it working with an international cast and crew?
It has indeed been a great opportunity for someone like me. The people who trained me on this film are the ones who have worked with Uma Thurman in the Kill Bill series. The special effects team has done some really big Hollywood films like Ghost Rider and Matrix etc. The camera person who shot my portfolio on location of the film has worked with one of the biggest fashion magazines called Vanity Fair. So its indeed been a great learning experience for me and I am lucky to have grabbed this movie which if I may say in true Bollywood style is a solo lead film(for me)
The people who trained me on Karna are the ones who have worked with Uma Thurman in the Kill Bill series.
Who all form rest of the cast in the film?
As of now, they are in talks with some big names in Hollywood like Orlando Bloom. There are a team of 3 directors working on this film. One of them looks at the drama and dialogues, the other team which looks at the special effects is from Hong Kong and the action team has worked on some big Hollywood films. There are also 3 producers and PNC is one of the producers who have taken the charge of releasing the film in India. However, it's going to release only in English and not in Hindi.
So when is Karna going to release?
I think its going to take some time. We recently shot 4 promos and to shoot 4 promos it took us a lot of time with the special effects and the post production etc. There is a lot of detailing in the film. We have shot in very big croma studios in Hong Kong, China. Over here we at times finish 4 scenes in one day but for one scene in this film we had to travel to three different countries. That's the difference and that's why it's taking a lot of time. Even their post production will also take a lot of time. I feel either this year end or probably early next year they would release. It's almost a 130 crore project so it's huge.
One of your films which brought you into the reckoning Ek Khiladi Ek Haseena is now being released in its animated version EKEH 2.0? You played a con-girl posing as a shrink in that oneâ¦.so would your role be the same?
EKEH 2.0 is going to be really cool. My character of a con-girl who poses as a psychiatrist will be much better this time around. I don't know many details yet but the director told me that my character (Natasha) would be the biggest surprise of the film. As of now they are busy with the sketches of the animated characters and they look so very cool
The director told me that my character (Natasha) would be the biggest surprise of the film EKEH 2.0.
So what would be your input this time around apart from giving the Voice-over for the character?
Yeah apart from giving the VO, what they would be looking at is promotion. I am not sure as to how they are going to plan the promotion of the film but I would do my bit in promoting EKEH 2.0.
Will the animated movie also have songs and music which featured in the original film, considering the music of Ek Khiladi Ek Haseena was quite a rage.
I don't know if they are planning to have songs in EKEH 2.0. However, I wish they have the boxing song ('Saara Jahan'). That is my favorite song in the film and I am sure it will look all the more cute now (laughs)
You recently were seen sizzling on the cover of Gladrags magazine in its January issue this yearâ¦You sure seemed at ease even wearing the bikiniâ¦So what is your fashion mantra like and are you a fussy dresser?
I am not a fussy dresser. I experiment a lot with my dresses. At times, I'm in a mood to wear track pants, a cap, torn jeans , sneakers, so I wear that and at times I prefer wearing a simple kurti with denims. For special occasions like award functions, I would love to wear a Saree. In dresses, my favorite colors are Black, Red and White. I don't really follow any fashion trends. I am fond of cool and comfortable clothes which suit my style.
In this day and age when stars really need to be fit as a fiddle, you are among the trendsettersâ¦. So what is the secret to your fab figure?
Its sheer hard work and people can call it crash dieting and starving or whatever but I would want them to go and try out if those methods work. If you want to make your body look good, nothing can work better than hard work. You have to be in the Gym and you need to understand what form of work-out your body likes. It could be plain cardio or it could be kick-boxing or it could be even a dance form like Salsa. As long as you are putting in the effort and enjoying what you are doing, the results will show. I personally prefer weight-training and I like it when people compliment me for my body. It gives me that push to work out harder.
I personally prefer weight-training and I like it when people compliment me for my body. It gives me that push to work out even harder.
In B-town, the popular saying goes that two actresses can never be friends; Yet your friendship with Tanushree Dutta is quite the talk of the townâ¦.How did the two of you connect?
I think at times when we lose something, we gain something. Tanushree and Riya were best friends. I didn't know Tanu at that time. I was good friends with Riya during Apna Sapna Money Money. However, Tanu and Riya had a fall out and then for some stupid reason Riya and me had a fall out. It was then that I started to know Tanushree. I found her to be a very strong girl. We were traveling for quite a few shows together and since we are both Bongs, we kinda connected.
So do you girls have the same likes and dislikes?
No (laughs) as a matter of fact we realized that we are two completely different people. We don't think alike, we don't do similar things; we are absolutely two opposites which makes it all the more interesting. Even if the two of us are put in a situation and asked to react, we would have totally different point of view.
Do you discuss work with each other?
We hardly discuss work. There are lots of interesting things to talk about. She is somebody who is very well read and has a lot of knowledge and even I like to pick up and learn interesting new things. Moreover, we both are single, so we can sit and discuss a lot about men. Again her choice of men and her take on relationships is completely different from mine. So it's a lot of fun
Apart from Tanu who are you other friends in the industry?
I do have a very good relation with all the producers, directors and actors whom I have worked with. From Sanju to Ritesh, all of them have been really nice whenever we bump into each other.
Tanushree's choice of men and her take on relationships is completely different from mine. So it's a lot of fun
Bong babes continue to rule Bollywoodâ¦How does it feel?
It feels great. I think there are 14 of us now (laughs) and people always have so many expectations from us, so living up to that is a real challenge. But I love it.
What surprises are in store for all Koena fans?
There will be many. Sometimes surprises come all of a sudden in the middle of the night and it is really exciting. You have to take life as it comes. For me, each and every thing that I am doing is exciting but I hope that my fans will like the work that I do this year.
Any message to your fans at Bollywood Hungama.
Till date I have got great support from my fans. They have shown a lot of warmth whenever I have interacted with them or met them. At times, they have even surprised me with the smallest of things. Every year you grow and your fans grow, so I hope I continue getting the same love and support from my fans. Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 6 May 2008 | 2:45 pm
Anupama Chopra, a noted film critic and author of best selling books, has been invited to be on the jury for the 'Un Certain Regard' section at the upcoming 61st Cannes Film Festival. This section screens about twenty features by young filmmakers and seasoned masters and is among the most prestigious sections at the festival.
The Un Certain Regard jury awards can also honor two other films besides the main prize winner. These prizes will be given at the closing ceremony on Saturday May 24, during which Robert de Niro will present the festival's top prize, the Palme d'Or.
Says Anupama, "This is a huge and unexpected honor. The Cannes Film Festival is the world's foremost cinema event. I am very proud to represent India and the Indian film industry in this space."
The 'Un Certain Regard' jury is headed by German filmmaker Fatih Akin. The main competition section is headed by actor-director Sean Penn. Source: Indiafm.com News | 6 May 2008 | 2:36 pm
PHILADELPHIA - Cartoonist Ted Key, whose comic strip "Hazel" about a bossy maid went from magazine page to TV screen, has died. He was 95. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 6 May 2008 | 12:29 pm
A New York jury began deliberations on Monday in the case of a man accused of stalking actress Uma Thurman and harassing her family. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 6 May 2008 | 12:29 pm
After the 2007 International Indian
Film Academy (IIFA) awards in Yorkshire proved a money-spinner
for the region, the neighbouring Ireland is now vying to host
the 2010 edition of the glittering high-profile ceremony. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 6 May 2008 | 12:29 pm
Beatles fans worldwide might just get to see a performance of their lifetime soon, for rumours are abuzz that Sir Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr will be reuniting on stage once again for a historic performance. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 6 May 2008 | 12:29 pm
Exactly three months have passed since Britney Spears slipped away from a psychiatric ward and promptly stirred up a paparazzi car chase, a scene that looked like the beginning of even more erratic behavior for the troubled pop star. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 6 May 2008 | 12:29 pm
Buoyed by the blockbuster success of "Iron Man" over the weekend, Marvel Studios on Monday announced plans for a string of superhero properties, including an "Iron Man" sequel set for April 2010. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 6 May 2008 | 12:29 pm
A speech-writer for France`s foreign minister has penned a literary, lustful and possibly lecherous "Guide to the Pretty Women of Paris" which blows a loud raspberry at political correctness. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 6 May 2008 | 12:29 pm
Stricken with acute laryngitis, Avril Lavigne has postponed six upcoming US tour dates, according to a message on the pop-punk musician`s Web site. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 6 May 2008 | 12:29 pm
Hollywood`s stars paid tribute to Tom Cruise on Monday`s Oprah Winfrey television show, with the actor saying he hoped for more challenging roles and to work with the likes of Al Pacino and Robert DeNiro. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 6 May 2008 | 12:29 pm
Actress Scarlett Johansson is set to marry Canadian actor Ryan Reynolds after more than a year of dating, according to People magazine. Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 6 May 2008 | 12:29 pm
Bollywood item girl Sambhavna Seth claims she is a better dancer than the popular Rakhi Sawant. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 6 May 2008 | 11:30 am
Last week Zayed Khan and his co-star Sweta Bhardwaj danced with the well-known Turkish belly dancer Tanyeli. And he just can't get over the experience. "Tanyeli is a Turkish dancer. And she's very popular back home. You've to see her dance. She's awesome. And she's not just talented she's also a wonderful human being."
Since Zayed isn't much of a dancer how did he keep pace with the stupendous ballet dancer? "I wasn't even trying to keep pace with her. I just enjoy dancing. So I just grooved with her."
Adds director Apoorva Lakhia, "Tanyeli is very popular all over the world. She has danced for Bill Clinton and the Queen Of England. I heard about her while shooting in Turkey. We bought the rights of the Bob Sinclair chartbuster World Hold On and we turned it around. Though Anu Malik tunes the rest of the songs, we got Shamir Tandon to do this special track 'Hamara Kal Hamara Aaj Hamare Hi Hanthon Mein Hai'. Kunal Gunjawala and his wife Gayatri Iyer sang the number. And Rajiv Goswami choreographed the track. It has turned out to be something special." Was it exorbitantly expensive to get the Turkish super-dancer to Mumbai?
Says Lakhia, âWe had to pay her only 5,000 US dollars per day. The dance took five days." Go figure that out. Source: Indiafm.com News | 6 May 2008 | 11:28 am
All the trade bodies of South Indian Film Industry including the powerfull FEFSI have accepted to remove the one year ban on Director Saami with a pre dated resolution from 30th April. Saami, known for his work in controversial Uyir and the recently released Mirugam was banned for a year ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 6 May 2008 | 11:28 am
Directed by S Ramachandra Rao and produced by KV Appa Rao under the banner of Satyadeva Productions, Priyamaina Sreemathi, with Jackie and Sonia in the lead, is most likely to be released in the first half of May. Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 6 May 2008 | 11:27 am
Oscar Ravichandran has clarified that his dream project Dasavatharam will not have any scenes, which hurt the religious sentiments of Hindus in any form. After the release of Dasavatharam trailers, some of the Hindu outfits threatened that they would never allow the film to release in Tamil Nadu if the ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 6 May 2008 | 11:21 am
The prestigious Padma awards were presented at the capital yesterday (April 5) and this yearâs recipients saw a mix of people from the field of entertainment, sports, business and even politics.
The recipients of this yearâs Padma Vibhushan Award included veteran playback singer Asha Bhosle, master-blaster Sachin Tendulkar, Infosys chief mentor N.R.Narayana Murthy, renowned hotelier P.R.S.Oberoi and External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee.
The Padma Vibhushan is now the highest civilian honor in India since the govt. has not announced any recipients of the Bharat Ratna from the year 2001. Source: Indiafm.com News | 6 May 2008 | 11:20 am
Shooting of Tellarindoy Maavo Maavaa was launched at Annapurna Studios in Hyderabad recently. The film is directed by M Saibaba and produced by Ganisetti Ramayya Naidu under the banner of Sivaparvathi Creations. Pavan Santosh, Praveen Kumar and Pratishta are in the lead. Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 6 May 2008 | 11:11 am
Mehr Jessia (Arjun Rampal's wife) Was the IPL match your first live cricket match? No. I've watched a couple before one in South Africa and the other in Mumbai but that was because of Arjun's love for the game. Have you been converted into a cricket fan now? Yes completely! ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 6 May 2008 | 11:03 am
'Mudrank', the controversial film on the life of fake stamp paper scam kingpin Abdul Karim Telgi, is all set for release after getting final approval from a Pune civil court. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 6 May 2008 | 11:02 am
In a thanks-giving act, Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan will delight the audience at the Eden Gardens here Thursday with a 20-minute performance ahead of his Kolkata Knight Riders team's Indian Premier League (IPL) match with Bangalore Royal Challengers. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 6 May 2008 | 11:02 am
Actor Surya is gearing up for the release of his next venture Vaaranam Aayiram directed by Gautham Menon. One of the requirements of the script where his screen age spans 17 to 65 years, was a well toned physique. Stickler for perfection that he is, Surya got into the act ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 6 May 2008 | 10:59 am
Melbourne (ANI): Mischa Barton's recent topless pictures have revealed more than what she's objecting to her dimpled thighs give a clear indication that the actress appears to be fighting with cellulite. The 22-year-old actress was caught on camera topless by a snapper while she was sunbathing in Australia. However, the pictures ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 6 May 2008 | 10:48 am
London (ANI): English pop singer Geri Halliwell had to be rescued by fire fighters on May 05, after she got stuck in a broken lift for an hour. Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 6 May 2008 | 10:35 am
When Anil Kapoor appeared on Sajid Khan's soon-to-air TV show Sajid's Superstars, the usually blase Sajid"s ears burned with Kapoor's candid confessions and witticisms. Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 6 May 2008 | 10:33 am
Whoever thought of pitching former beauty queen and now actress Niharika Singh, who's doing two major films with Himesh Reshammiya, against Jennifer Kotwal who's done some Kannada films, against one another at the mahurat of Mudh Mudh Ke Na Dekh Mudh Mudh Ke last week, gets the prize for the ... Source: Oneindia - Entertainment | 6 May 2008 | 10:25 am
Anubhav Sinha is amused that Health Ministry may actually be looking at banning on-screen drinking. He is particularly flustered that Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan are being targeted as they are supposedly contributing to the 'bad habits' like drinking and smoking.
"First of all, we must remember that cinema and society borrow from each other. It must have been the society not the movies that started smoking and drinking first. Cinema and society reflect each other. So both must take the onus. If no nation in the world can 'afford to' ban smoking or drinking, we must accept that we need to learn to co exist with both", argues Anubhav Sinha.
He further questions, "Does the government have the authority, reason or control or courage if I may to tell 'the nation' to stop drinking or smoking? Then what gives them the authority to tell Shah Rukh to stop smoking or Amitji to not drink in the movies?"
Reflecting on the political scenario in the country, Anubhav goes on to add, "We know our health minister mostly for the digs at the film industry while we know Mr. Lalu Prasad Yadav for the complete and continuous changeover in the Indian Railways. I recommend him to actually contribute to the average and basic health of an average Indian than getting published for mediocre reasons."
So where he does he feel that celebrities could come in handy to spread the message? "I might as well request and mobilize celebrities to adopt X number of patients every year and mobilize treatment and education for them. At least it will serve a purpose and generate respectable news", suggests Anubhav.
Going back to Amitabh Bachchan, Anubhav says, "While we over-hype the bad effects of smoking and drinking in the movies, we must remember that the nation is fully aware that Amitabh Bachchan himself quit smoking forty years back. That should be inspiring enough."
How about Shah Rukh Khan, "Come on, Shah Rukh Khan repeatedly mentions that smoking is a terrible habit and he is trying his best everyday to quit. The audience knows this as much as it knows that he smokes. Let's stop cracking jokes man and get on with work. There are far bigger things to actually worry about." Source: Indiafm.com News | 6 May 2008 | 9:51 am
Click above for more stills
Guess what's the common factor between Nikhil Dwivedi and Indian Team of the Twenty 20 World Cup? No, the young boy who made his debut with My Name Is Anthony Gonsalves early this year is not planning to join the cricket team. Also, he won't be performing at any of the ongoing matches in the IPL. He is happy being an actor and at the moment is busy with the shooting of Khalbali Hai Khalbali which is progressing at full swing in Mumbai.
What brings Nikhil close to the cricket team though is the open top bus which was used for the India Team of the Twenty 20 World Cup when they had defeated Pakistan last September in the tournament finals at Johannesburg, South Africa. On coming back home, the triumphant Indian cricket team rode in an open top double decker bus from Mumbai airport to Wankhede stadium. The same bus would now feature in Khalbali Hai Khalbali with a song being picturised on the film's lead Nikhil Dwivedi and South star Sadaa.
Commenting on the idea behind the bus, director Ajay Chandok, who saw the release of his Sanjay Dutt and Saif Ali Khan starrer Nehlle Pe Dehlla last year, says, "Khalbali Hai Khalbali is a unique film in itself since it features dozens of comic actors on a single platform. We wanted to bring on a unique element even in the way a song is being shot."
He adds, "One of my unit members remembered India's win and how this open top double decker bus had traveled across Mumbai and caught attention of one and all. This is when we decided to make this bus an integral part of our song. Thankfully, we didn't face any hassles from administration in procuring this bus and the shoot is going on smoothly."
Buzz is that the song is going to be the highlight of the film since it has a strong 'marathi' flavor to it. Agrees Chandok, "Composer duo of Sajid-Wajid has come up with a track that is an out and out chartbuster in the making. This was another reason why we wanted the picturisation to be special as well. It only compliments the riotous flavor of the film."
On his experience around shooting for the song, Nikhil Dwivedi says, "Howsoever good it may all look on screen, let me admit that it is not an easy task to be shooting atop a bus, especially when it is on a move. More so because if you make one wrong step or a right frame is not captured and you have to get the bus back to the starting point and start all over again."
"I have experienced shooting on roads in 'Jaane Maula Jaane Khuda' for My Name Is Anthony Gonsalves but this was truly different. For me a double decker experience by itself has been adventurous enough," he chuckles. Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 6 May 2008 | 9:41 am
Acclaimed Indian origin Hollywood director Manoj Night Shyamalan, who is here to promote his next release 'The Happening', says he never follows any agenda while writing his films but does try to secure the investors' money. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 6 May 2008 | 8:32 am
August is a crucial month and those who've films confirmed this month are hoping that their great run continues. The Akshay Kumar starrer SINGH IS KINNG, slated for release on 8 August, is carrying excellent reports and has been sold for a record price to Studio 18, who, in turn, have sold various territories for astronomical prices. Akshay is expecting SINGH IS KINNG to cement his status as a superstar.
Abhishek Bachchan is keeping his fingers crossed for DRONA, which arrives on 15 August. Reportedly, Sunil Lulla of Eros, who holds the global rights, saw the rushes of the film recently and couldn't stop raving about the film as also Abhishek's performance in it. 'âDRONA will be a huge hit. Abhishek is simply outstanding,â Sunil informs me. Such glowing words from a seasoned player like Sunil Lulla means a lot.
It's an acid test for Ranbir Kapoor, whose BACHNA AE HASEENO also arrives on 15 August. After the disaster called SAAWARIYA, Ranbir is hoping that he finally sees a hit. The question on everyone's lips is, will Ranbir deliver? Or will he be a one-film wonder?
Aamir Khan's nephew Imran is also keeping his fingers crossed, what with KIDNAP releasing on 22 August. Incidentally, KIDNAP also happens to be Sanjay Gadhvi's first film outside Yash Raj. Farhan Akhtar too is hoping that his acting debut, ROCK ON, rocks the box-office. The film is confirmed for release on 29 August. Source: Indiafm.com News | 6 May 2008 | 7:21 am
Actor-director Kabir Sadanand is ready to strike back! His directorial debut, POPCORN KHAO MAST HO JAO, went unnoticed at the box-office, but Kabir didn't lose hope. âI didn't want to repeat the same mistakes. I wanted to be doubly sure of my new script before I announced my next film,â Kabir states.
The actor/director has teamed Nana Patekar and Dimple Kapadia for his next project. âIt's a slice of life film,â he states, âIt's a love story essentially. We plan to begin shooting by the end of this month.â Nikhil Panchamiya, who had produced DIL MAANGE MORE and ANTHONY KAUN HAI, will produce this project. The makers have also signed Rehan Khan and Shifaali Shah for pivotal roles.
This is the third time Nana and Dimple have been teamed in a film, after PRAHAAR and KRANTIVEER. Source: Indiafm.com News | 6 May 2008 | 7:16 am
Television actress Shveta Salve says her bikini photo shoot for lifestyle magazine Maxim's cover page highlights her real self. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 6 May 2008 | 5:01 am
Actor-director Ajay Devgan says his career is like an investment as he would like his daughter to be proud of his work when she grows up. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 6 May 2008 | 3:00 am
Govinda lost eight kilograms while in Bangkok thanks to Suniel Shetty, who is known not only to be fiercely health conscious from long before physical fitness became a fad but also to make his colleagues lose weight at the drop of flab. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 6 May 2008 | 3:00 am
Whoever thought of pitching former beauty queen and now actress Niharika Singh, who's doing two major films with Himesh Reshammiya, against Jennifer Kotwal who's done some Kannada films, against one another at the mahurat of Mudh Mudh Ke Na Dekh Mudh Mudh Ke last week, gets the prize for the most fertile publicity machinery on this side of the Bhatts.
Angry and amused Niharika says she barely knows her female co-star. "In fact, after reading about our so-called catfight at the mahurat Jennifer sms-ed me to say the article was such nonsense. I'm speechless. It's too outrageous to even react to."
It has been a tradition to pitch actresses against one another. From Sharmila-Raakhee during the making of Daag to Kareena-Priyanka Chopra in Aitraaz. But Niharika refuses to be sucked into a sham rivalry.
"I've met Jennifer. We've even shot stills for the film that we're doing together. I can't say we're buddies. We haven't spoken that much. But we've exchanged pleasantries. And we're certainly not fighting. After reading the totally fabricated article on Monday morning, she messaged me and we had a good laugh about it."
Nowadays generating interest in a film could assume any proportion, from killing off the hero in a manufactured accident to generating a fake rivalry between two leading ladies.
"Cat fights in a rat race? We aren't cats and rats. We're girls," quips Niharika. Source: Indiafm.com News | 5 May 2008 | 4:26 pm
If someone claims to have cracked the real personality of Ram Gopal Varma, the person certainly needs to be invited to read a paper on the maverick filmmaker's real self.
Who is the real Ramu? Is he is the one who doesn't think twice about cracking jokes at his own movies? Is he the one who sticks his neck out and says that he is actually contemplating making Sholay again? Is he is the one who claims that though the world is looking at Sarkar Raj as his 'comeback film', for him it is just another film that he has made?
"You are making me sound much more than complex than I really am", says Ramu with his trademark laughter (which by the way doesn't give out on whether he is laughing at himself or you), "Seriously, for me films are like incidents. They happen and I move on to my next incident in life. There are series of decisions I make while making a film and that's about it."
But any man would be disappointed/disheartened by failure, isn't it? Trend is that whenever any film by Ramu fails, he laughs about it and moves on to his next project. Why is that so?
"That's because though for audience and media people like you, it's quite some news/shock on seeing a film fail, inside me I am aware about what could have possibly gone wrong during the filmmaking itself. I know that I have made a wrong decision somewhere during filming and hence I am hardly surprised when my film gets such a response", reveals Ramu who can be found joining the joke about Tashan being termed as 'Aditya Chopra Ki Aag'.
"Isn't it ironic that now I have started receiving compliments around my Aag being a classic in comparison", chuckles Ramu, "Of course I know that no one is serious out there. Everyone needs a punching bag and last year it was me, this year it is someone else. People love pulling others up or down at an alarming rate. However, while they do so, they don't realize that I have already moved on to my next project."
By any chance, is it a way to camouflage his hurt?
"Not at all", says Ramu promptly, "Why should I be hurt per se? My mind is occupied with so many ideas. I may as well nurture an idea rather than be bogged down by my failures. I can't afford to take things deep down my heart. This is why I don't make statements like - 'I stand by my baby'! I rather move on to my next one." Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 5 May 2008 | 4:08 pm
A great philosopher once said that 'Nostalgia for what we have lost is more bearable than nostalgia for what we have never had...'
Well, the statement couldn't have been truer in the case. Chitrangda Singh, the girl who made the whole of Bollywood sit up and take notice of her talent in her debut film itself Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi, so much so that the entire Bolly-folks unanimously declared that she is the next Smita Patil in the making. But due to unsaid family 'pressures', she bid adieu to the glam world even as the whole of Bollywood was just a phone call/ SMS away. The word has it that the mere presence of this ocean of immense talent is so articulate that she is yet to find a detractor! 'And' the word is also that, the leading lifestyle magazine Andpersand has managed to get this glowing lighthouse on the cover of their latest edition.
Now if only the 'Great Philosopher' was still alive, then, we are sure that he would have surely rephrased his saying as 'Nostalgia isn't what it used to be'. Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 5 May 2008 | 4:00 pm
Ghajini's shooting schedule in Hyderabad has gone for a toss. Aamir Khan has injured his hamstring muscle yet again while shooting for the film yesterday afternoon (Sunday afternoon in Hyderabad). Just last week, Aamir had injured his hamstring while performing an action sequence following which he took rest for a couple of days before getting back to work.
Our source from the sets says, "Aamir did not want the shooting of Ghajini to suffer because of his injury. Everyone on the sets was against him pushing himself, but Aamir was insistent that we should shoot close ups. He spoke to the director A R Murgadoss and decided to shoot the close up sequences which wouldn't aggravate his injury."
However, it was a bad idea as his muscle got further strained. Adds the source, "He was chasing the bad guy, he stepped in a wrong position and his hamstring muscle got torn. After the shot was 'Okayed' for almost 40 minutes, Aamir was unable to stand up. Initially, everyone on the sets thought that Aamir was pulling a fast one, but only when he started screaming in pain, everyone got moving."
A Physiotherapist was present on the set and he requested for a specialist to be called in. Aamir had to be carried and was taken to a local hospital. He has been asked to take three weeks of complete bed rest and the shooting has been cancelled. The source says, "He will be coming to Mumbai in a day or two, once doctors allow him to travel, after which he will be resting at his Bandra residence."
A. R. Murgadoss, the director of the film says, "It happened on the day we were shooting some crucial sequences with Aamir. Although he had supported his leg, he got into an awkward position while shooting and he seriously injured himself again. Shooting can hold. We all right now are worried about his well being". Source: Indiafm.com News | 5 May 2008 | 3:37 pm
Health Ministry seems to be at it again. According to Health Minister Anbumani Ramadoss, actors drinking on screen will encourage youngsters to take up the habit. Hence, scenes depicting alcohol consumption in films need to immediately stop.
The industry reacts
Farah Khan - Dear Mr. Ramadoss, what next? Should Superman stop flying because kids will imitate him? Should all heist films be banned next because people will start robbing banks? If all in our country imitated films then hockey should have become the favorite sport after Chak De India and really after watching Gandhi, our nation should have become non violent. It's very presumptuous of you to think that films only influence wrongly. You don't tell us how to do our job Mr. Ramadoss and we won't tell you how to do yours.
Abhay Deol - We're in the business of filmmaking. Films are about people. And there are all sorts of people and stories out there. Maybe for some, ignorance is bliss but I feel its better to be informed. And besides, aren't we a democracy?
Vishal Dadlani - I think they should stop picking on easy targets, and find some real issues to tackle. They just seem to be trying to get easy publicity by attacking the entertainment business. You can always tell when elections are around the corner by the increased frequency and vehemence of this sort of silliness!
Shekhar Ravjiani - Well, the way I see it is that there are many more things to tackle than this issue. On-screen drinking has been shown in Bollywood since many years. People are not crazy to put these scenes on purpose. It's a script requirement, a character requirement. But if the health minister thinks by putting a stop to this will help, I see no harm. It better help.
Sajid Khan - Its a fu**al suggestion. People do what people have to do. Movies are for entertainment and not a cure for a disease. Will they pass a rule saying ban oily foods in restaurants because more people die of cholesterol caused heart diseases than drinking! 1st ban 'ghee' and oil from food and then ban drinking from films!
Vikram Bhatt - The film industry seems like the easiest way to make headlines. When in need of headlines flog the films!
Kunal Shivdasani - No one lets reel life influence real life. What do you do as a filmmaker if you are doing a film like Devdas? You can't have your hero getting drunk on water or a 'sharbat' - the character demands consumption of alcohol to look real.
Imtiaz Ali - Shouldn't glorify it, else no problem to show drinking on screen.
Deepak Tijori - Please find him some work so that it can keep him occupied over more important issues rather than digging pot holes for the Film Industry. It is just a ploy to remain in news and get more publicity.
Manish Tiwary - I believe cinema needs creative freedom and the state should keep out of such simple matters. The ministry has been seeking unnecessary attention and one hopes it is 'politics of obfuscation' where they are using the issue to raise public awareness. Actually touching cinema will be dumb.
Nisha Rawal - Well I feel that suppression provokes aggression. Moreover, films are inspired by reality. Does no one from the health ministry drink?
Manoj Tyagi - Rather than being the so called moral guardians for the society, how about them looking within and curbing corruption and inflation. Also how about improving general public health services? Cooper, a free hospital doesn't have an ICU!
Sophie Chodhry - According to them, the people and youth of our country have no mind of their own. They only follow whatever we do in films especially the so called 'bad' habits. Don't you think its ridiculous to underestimate our people so much. And isn't it unfair to always make films the scapegoat?
Homi Adajania - Characters in films reflect our interpretations of people in real life. Now real life is full of flawed characters, which is what makes it interesting to begin with. So if a character does anything amoral, give the audience some credit to interpret the reason. No one has the right to herd an audience's intelligence. It's their choice!
Shirish Kunder- Mr. Ramadoss, since you are telling us how to do our job, let me please take the opportunity to tell you how to do yours. If you really have the BALLS, you should try and stop the supply of alcohol in the society, rather than trying to stop it in films. Films are only a REFLECTION of the society, and you seem to be more interested in the REFLECTION, rather than the actual SOURCE of the problem. So please concentrate on the SOURCE of the problem, and do your job. The censor board is already there to think of what is good and bad for films. Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 5 May 2008 | 2:43 pm
Rank
Last week
Film
Plusses
Minuses
1
2
Jannat
'Awarapan' disappointment could well be the thing of the past now! Bhatts, Emraan Hashmi and Pritam had a good soundtrack in 'Awarapan' last year but it couldn't top the charts. However, sustained audience word of mouth has led 'Jannat' to the top just as the movie is 2 Fridays away.
None
2
3
Race
'Race' regains a spot, what with 'Tashan' taking a tumble. Guess music lovers are getting entertained more with 'Touch Me' rather than 'Dance Maare'. Pritam makes it two of two at the top!
None
3
1
Tashan
After enjoying a fortnight at the top, the expected has happened. With the film failing to do wonders at the box office, the music too has taken a fall. Pity, since this was one of the best soundtracks for a Yash Raj Film since 'Jhoom Barabar Jhoom'.
Vishal-Shekhar may be ruing the fact that the music promotion was near to zilch before the film's release. Though makers would have hoped that film's success would work for the music as well, that wasn't the case to be.
4
4
Jodhaa Akbar
Solid as ever, 'Jodhaa Akbar' is hardly buzzing from it's Top-5 positioning. An amazing response to an album which had started on a very slow note. Rahman now looks forward to the response of 'Ada' and 'Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Naa'.
None
5
5
Khuda Kay Liye
A success story which no one could see coming, 'Khuda Kay Liye' has surprised the Indian music scene. Even though the music album released barely a few days before the film's release, it has worked with the music lovers in a big way. A complete package album which deserves repeat listening.
The album needs to be promoted all over to mandate a reach in the interiors as well. Currently, it's only the urban centers which are the prime market for the music.
6
6
U Me Aur Hum
There is absolutely no movement at the bottom-5 of the charts. As 'U Me Aur Hum' has been doing consistent business at the box office, the music too is following suit. Good part is that the music company too hasn't given up and is promoting it rather decently across music channels.
This is the maximum high this Vishal Bhardwaj score has reached and isn't expected to break into Top-5 again
7
7
Taare Zameen Par
It appears that 'Taare Zameen Par' won't give up from the charts, at least before the release of 'Ghajini'. Now that would be quite a record for Aamir Khan to have an album of his staying in the charts for almost a year.
None
8
8
Jab We Met
'Mauja Mauja' has recently been voted as the song of the year in a recently conducted awards function. Though this may be debatable, considering 'Hare Krishna Hare Raam' too must have been a strong contender, the fact remains that 'Jab We Met' has ruled ever since it's arrival.
None
9
9
Krazzy 4
Staying on by default with none of the newer albums like 'Bhoothnath' or 'Anamika' making any mark whatsoever, 'Krazzy 4' continues to hang on at the bottom of the charts.
Though the makers are strongly promoting 'Ek Rupaiyya', the fact is that except for the title song and to an extent 'Dekhta Hai Tu Kya', absolutely nothing else works for the album
10
10
Om Shanti Om
Even as the film has recently completed silver jubilee at the box office, the music has been on for much longer. Though Vishal-Shekhar must have hoped that their 'Tashan' would surpass 'Om Shanti Om', 'Dard-E-Disco' still continues to be hot favorite.
None
Source: Music Festival, MGF Mall Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 5 May 2008 | 2:32 pm
Kingfisher Airlines Monday paid Bhojpuri actor Kamal Khan to compensate for a cancelled flight after the actor moved a consumer court demanding Rs.2 million in damages for a delayed flight that forced him to cancel shooting last year. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 5 May 2008 | 2:02 pm
The multiplex chains Inox and Fame have finally started screening Yash Raj Films' (YRF) latest offering 'Tashan' here after receiving a written assurance from the banner that it will give prints of their other four releases of this year from the first-day-first-show. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 5 May 2008 | 2:01 pm
Adlabs Films Limited, part of the Reliance Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group, has entered into an agreement for acquisition of majority and controlling interest in Malaysia-based Lotus Five Star Cinemas. Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 5 May 2008 | 12:00 pm
