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Barbara Mori snubs Aishwarya Rai at Cannes
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 19 May 2009 | 4:52 pm Woody Allen wins $ 5 million settlement
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 19 May 2009 | 4:35 pm Farhan Akhtar's sore throat may stall 'Blue' songFarhan Akhtar's song for Tony D'Souza's underwater thriller "Blue" that composer A.Source: Entertainment News | 19 May 2009 | 4:14 pm Nick targets family audience with TV series 'Little Krishna'With its newly-launched mythological animated series "Little Krishna", a BIG Animation production, kid's entertainment channel Nick is attempting to widen its viewership in India by targeting family audience instead of just the kids.Source: Entertainment News | 19 May 2009 | 4:01 pm Have Shahid, Priyanka broken up?
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 19 May 2009 | 2:33 pm "I want to do an Indian South Park" - Cell 18 CEO
Cell 18, the creative production house of the Network 18 conglomerate, was carved out in 2008 to do business outside the network. One year later, the post house has a dream clientele ranging from JWT, Nokia, Airtel. Godrej, Lowe, Catwheel, Reliance Mobile, Zee Cinema and more. Also on the cards is a possible foray into short and long form animation content. Chief Executive Officer, Zubin Driver tells Bollywood Hungama about his ideas of the animation space and more.
What is Cell 18's pedigree?
Cell18 is basically a creative production house. We are into post-production and production of ad films and production of long content. In fact, we've just bagged a Marathi comedy serial with ETV and are in the process of pitching for multiple serials, reality, fiction and non-fiction shows. That's going to be very big (thing) for us in 2009. Besides, we continue to grow in advertising and are also doing well in post-production.
Any plans of a foray into long content animation?
Not this year. But 2010 onwards we might start getting interested. We already have some work in the short form animation content. We are doing animation films, promos and virals which have come to us on a turn-key basis. We have plans to look into IPR animation another two years down the line.
How did you associate with the Golden Cursor Animation Awards?
We always wanted to associate ourselves with a creative award. Plus I am personally interested in animation. It is one of the most fluid forms in which you can work your imagination to the hilt. Besides it's the only medium that gives you complete freedom.
The way I see animation, and we've been observing the animation industry very closely because of Golden Cursor Awards, I really believe the value lies in unlocking popular culture. Finally animation is about storytelling. Right now we are at a very nascent stage in animation, so most people do mythological serials and more of the same old stuff.
We are a country of one billion people who are the greatest storytellers. What we need to do now is to create work based on who we are, what we feel and how we live. That's when you'll start getting a real audience.
Are you also looking at post production of movies?
We are. And hopefully we will work with Studio 18 and Indian Films at some point.
You have plans of expanding operations?
Animation, next year. But we have already started thinking about the whole space. We have concluded that we need to tell our own stories that are uniquely Indian and not worry too much about what is happening globally. We are interested in telling our own stories in a true way and fining a unique form to work with.
But you don't see any Indian content going global, as of now.
That is because we don't concentrate on telling our own stories truly. See, we always work within formulas. For instance, for years Bollywood talked to itself because the formula worked and there was too much money riding on it. Everyone was trying to play out different versions of the formula. The moment you start evolving, you will start telling your own stories and a new formula will emerge. The new stories become a real response to life around you. This is exactly what happened in Hollywood.
Indian animation needs to find its own voice. The big thing is not the money, the machines, or the people but the ideas.
But animation is not attracting enough eyeballs.
If Cell 18 does something, we will get high TRPs because we are not chasing many things. If I get into animation IPR, I will go with one thing that is a winner. I am not interested in getting outsourced jobs, hiring people and becoming a BPO outfit.
I am getting into animation because it excites me. And I want to do an Indian South Park, if I go down that way. I will first analyze the market, will figure a mass connect. South Park is not a mass thing, so if I go in I will find something with a mass connect. When we launch something, it's going to be up there. This is how the Network 18 group works.Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 19 May 2009 | 2:32 pm Rahul Dev's wife passes away
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 19 May 2009 | 2:31 pm Vikas Swarup, Om Puri in Cannes limelight
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 19 May 2009 | 2:23 pm Anandji remembers legendary Prakash Mehra
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 19 May 2009 | 2:04 pm 'O saathi re' sums up Prakash Mehra's philosophy of life: AnandjiHe didn't have an immediate family and that was why Prakash Mehra's films often showed a craving for kin, says Anandji, the surviving half of the music composer duo Kalyanji-Anandji who worked with the late filmmaker Mehra on many songs, including legendary numbers like "Yaari hai imaan mera" for "Zanjeer".Source: Entertainment News | 19 May 2009 | 1:48 pm 'I influenced Carla Bruni with my melodies'Leading French rock guitarist Louis Bertignac, who says Indian melodies have influenced his music a great deal, recalls how French First Lady Carla Bruni and he jammed together when they were in love many years back.Source: Entertainment News | 19 May 2009 | 12:59 pm Riteish, Boman are IIFA hosts againThey had the audience in splits with their inimitable humour at the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) awards last year in Bangkok and they are set to do it yet again.Source: Entertainment News | 19 May 2009 | 12:58 pm Penelope Cruz sidelined by food poisoning
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 19 May 2009 | 12:49 pm Shahid, Priyanka broken up? - NDTV.com
Source: Google News India - Entertainment | 19 May 2009 | 12:41 pm Rahul Dev's wife passes away - IndiaGlitz
Source: Google News India - Entertainment | 19 May 2009 | 12:41 pm John Mayer begs women to kiss him
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 19 May 2009 | 12:24 pm Priyanka hits out at Kareena
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 19 May 2009 | 12:16 pm Aamir to star opposite Kate Winslet? - Rediff
Source: Google News India - Entertainment | 19 May 2009 | 11:59 am Vikas Swarup, Om Puri in Cannes limelightBestselling Indian author Vikas Swarup and veteran actor Om Puri are not physically present at the ongoing 62nd Cannes Film Festival but they are nonetheless receiving their share of media spotlight by virtue of being part of prestigious upcoming international movie projects.Source: Entertainment News | 19 May 2009 | 11:58 am Steve Jones gets steamy with Hayden PanettiereLondon, (ANI): Welsh television presenter Steve Jones was spotted getting hot and heavy with actress Hayden Panettiere recently.Jones, 32, and 19-year-old Panettiere were on Elton John’s fella David Furnish’s yacht, moored in Cannes, on May 18, reports the Sun.The T4 presenter,Source: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 19 May 2009 | 11:57 am Angels And Demons ReviewAngels and Demons the sequel to The Vinci Code has finally hit the theatres amidst controversy. The Ron Howard directed movie is based on Dan Brown’s book by the same name which incidentally came out before The Vinci Code. TheSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 19 May 2009 | 11:53 am John Mayer begs women to kiss himLondon, (ANI): American musician John Mayer is said to have begged dozens of women to kiss him during a night out with some of his friends on May 16.Mayer, 31, who had recently split from actress Jennifer Aniston, got the ladiesSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 19 May 2009 | 11:33 am Julia Roberts' kids don't know she's a star
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 19 May 2009 | 11:30 am Sequel to Farrah's Story in the makingWashington, (ANI): Cancer-stricken Hollywood actress Farrah Fawcett is said to be filming a sequel to her documentary ‘Farrah’s Story’ with her partner Ryan O'Neal. She had allowed the camera’s to capture her battle with anal cancer after she was diagnosed withSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 19 May 2009 | 11:22 am Sonu Nigam plays Ashok Kheny in video albumNICE company owner Ashok Kheny has come out with an video album on his life time achievement. It is said that he has spent Rs. 1 crore on the video album 'Neene Bari Neene', which will soon be aired on smallSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 19 May 2009 | 11:22 am Rahul Dev loses his wife to cancer
It has indeed been a sad week for the film fraternity. While on Sunday (May 17), prolific filmmaker Prakash Mehra left for eternal abode, a day earlier actor Rahul Dev lost his beloved wife to cancer.
Rahul Dev's wife Rina had been suffering from cancer since the past few years and was even taking treatment in Delhi but unfortunately she lost the battle last Saturday (May 16). Rahul and Rina had been married for a good 11 years and even have a 10 year old son Siddharth.
Bollywood Hungama expresses its heartfelt condolences to Rahul Dev and prays to the Almighty to give him the strength and courage to bear this loss.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 19 May 2009 | 11:17 am Footballers John Terry and Frank Lampard to attend IIFA-Macau
There seems to be some sort of a kismat connection between IIFA and UK. The first ever IIFA - London's Millenium Dome, IIFA Yorkshire brought the IIFA for
the second time to the UK and now renowned footballers from the UK are to grace the grand event in Macau. So if IIFA Yorkshire was a cricketing extravaganza,
Macau may well turn into one
football frenzy city as the best of the best in football heroes are going to make their presence felt at the Green Carpet event. Every year, IIFA sees a host
of Indian celebrities as well as international film personalities attending the IIFA Weekend. Abhishek Bachchan, we're sure will be looking forward to meet
his favourite Chelsea footballers. Internationally renowned John Terry and Frank Lampard have confirmed their attendance to the IIFA Macau.
Besides the presence of Bollywood biggies including the Bachchans along with stars like Hrithik Roshan, Shahid Kapoor, Neil Nitin Mukesh, Kangna Ranaut,
Priyanka Chopra, Lara Dutta, renowned filmmaker Subhash Ghai amongst others will make the IIFA Weekend 2009 a special and wonderful experience for one and
all. Keeping the last year's trend alive this year too, Ritiesh Deshmukh and Boman Irani are all set to take the main stage as hosts to the IIFA Awards and
tickle the funny bones with their antics that was loved by the industry and the audiences as well.
The 10th IIFA Awards promises some electrifying on stage performances by Sonam Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor's mesmerizing performance. The IIFA Weekend will be
viewed by 600 million people globally and is expected to pull in thousands of visitors across the world during this 3 day prestigious event. The IIFA Weekend
will start on June 11th 2009 and the IIFA Awards will be given to the best in the Indian Cinema at a star-studded extravaganza on 13th June 2009.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 19 May 2009 | 11:15 am Ashlee Simpson's dad denies she is pregnantWashington, May 19 (ANI): Pop star Ashlee Simpson's father, Joe, has rebuffed claims that his daughter is expecting her second child with her husband rocker Pete Wentz.Source: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 19 May 2009 | 11:11 am Lennon's son worried about biopic on fatherWashington, May 19 (ANI): Late musician John Lennon's son Julian is worried that a forthcoming biopic will tarnish his memory of his late father.Source: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 19 May 2009 | 11:11 am Kidman does what she wish she hadn't, sings in filmMelbourne, May 19 (ANI): Hollywood actress Nicole Kidman has once again had to sing in her forthcoming flick 'Nine', even though she does not like singing in movies.Source: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 19 May 2009 | 11:11 am Farah Fawcett, O Neal filming a follow-up to her cancer documentaryWashington, May 19 (ANI): Cancer-stricken Hollywood actress Farah Fawcett is said to be filming a sequel to her documentary 'Farah's story' with her partner Ryan O Neal.Source: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 19 May 2009 | 11:11 am Steven Spielberg says there will never be a sequel to E.T.Washington, May 19 (ANI): Filmmaker Steven Spielberg has ruled out any plans to make a sequel to the hit flick E.T., insisting that it is a "closed story".Source: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 19 May 2009 | 11:11 am Rann to release on Gandhi Jayanti
Download Rann wallpapers
While it was confirmed last week itself that Ram Gopal Varma's much hyped and already in controversy Rann would be releasing in the month of October, the latest piece of news that has just come in is that 2nd October has been locked in as D-day for the film's release. Considering the fact that the film comes with a volatile theme and is expected to boast of a power house drama, a Gandhi Jayanti release is obviously not just a coincidence.
"The world knows that 2nd October was the day when the Father of the Nation was born. He taught the world the power of tolerance. Now on the same day, Rann will show the world something that will make them lose their faith in this blinded tolerance to each and everything", comes a very strong statement from an insider who wished to be unnamed.
With Rann already been in controversy due to it's theme track 'Jana Gana Rann', isn't it's 2nd October release adding fire to the fuel?
"To each his own", says the source, "Why don't we also look at the business angle of affairs. Any film would like to come over a long weekend and with 2nd October being a Friday (a National holiday), the film is already looking at an extended weekend. Which film won't want to arrive in such productive time frame?"
However, one can't deny the fact that by choosing 2nd October as D-day, Rann has made a smart move by making quite a few other films do a rethinking around their release strategy. With this Ram Gopal Varma film being one of the biggest to arrive this year, what with a power packed star cast spear headed by Amitabh Bachchan and well aided by others like Riteish Deshmukh, Paresh Rawal, Sudeep, Rajat Kapoor, Gul Panag, Neetu Chandra, Rajpal Yadav and Mohnish Behl, it is only bound to create ripples amongst other production houses that may be looking at bringing their film over the stated weekend.
Says a member of Rann, "The film has been shaping up exceedingly well and it will not just wake you but shock you. And please, it is not an out and out political drama per se, as is being speculated by a few out there. In fact that's just one part of it. Believe me, when you will walk out of the film, you won't want to move on to doing something else. Instead you will want to sit down and put your thinking cap on to retrospect on the drama that just unfolded."
Though Ram Gopal Varma was unavailable for comment, the know-how of the industry are quite sure that he won't miss the opportunity of bringing his topical Rann on 2nd October.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 19 May 2009 | 10:55 am History repeats itself for Aamir Khan - Oneindia
Source: Google News India - Entertainment | 19 May 2009 | 10:52 am Archer wishes Bollywood to approach himEvery book of his has been on bestseller lists in the last 30 years and he has been one of the most read contemporary English authors in India, but when it came to adapting his latest novel "Paths of Glory" into a film, Jeffrey Archer says he is surprised to have not found any takers in India.Source: Entertainment News | 19 May 2009 | 10:37 am Genelia replaced Jiah as the character changedBollywood director Ken Ghosh insists that Jiah Khan's ouster from his upcoming film had nothing to do with her acting capabilities.Source: Entertainment News | 19 May 2009 | 10:37 am Madhavan excited about '13B' going to ShanghaiActor R.Source: Entertainment News | 19 May 2009 | 10:36 am 'Angels and Demons' to be released on May 29Tom Hanks-starrer "Angels and Demons", which is currently on the top spot at the US box office, will release in India on May 29 in four languages - English, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu.Source: Entertainment News | 19 May 2009 | 10:36 am "Every IIFA proves to be better than the last one... wait and watch!" - Amitabh Bachchan
It was love at first sight. The year - 2007, the city - London, the place - House of Commons. It was about 2 pm and my first step into the UK parliament. I was more than excited to be one of the few media personalities invited to attend the conference where IIFA Brand Ambassador Mr. Amitabh Bachchan was to give a welcome speech and announce the IIFA Yorkshire 2007 and meet the then Prime Minister of the UK, Mr. Tony Blair. The beautifully constructed high ceiling, the grandeur of the House of Commons, the extraordinary sculptures you pass by on your way to the grand hall. Everything looked perfect. I enter the hall. Cameras, cameras and more cameras. Channel Four, BBC, GM TV, all the top broadcast channels from the UK ready to pan the mighty Big B as he strides in along with the Minister of Culture Tessa Jowell, Minister for Foreign and Commonwealth Office Keith Vaz, Lord Swaraj Paul, NRI Industrialist and British Ambassador for Overseas Business, Indian High Commissioner Kamlesh Sharma, and scores of members of both houses of Parliament. What followed were some memorable speeches made by the dignitaries, a photo call, handling of the Big B with Big Ben picture and the famous Tony Blair speech. What struck me most was the following which the Brand Ambassador had to say: "About fifty sixty years ago, acting in films was not considered an honourable profession and many families in fact disapproved of their children taking to acting. But today it is a matter of pride that I am being showered with love and affection in this August House, mainly because of the eminence and appreciation the Indian films have earned in the overseas." The conference got over and I was told to travel to Yorkshire in the same train in which Mr Bachchan was travelling to announce the IIFA awards up north. Cut to the next day morning and I am seen sitting opposite Big B in my first ever one on one interview for the IIFA. A great moment. The torch bearer Bachchan was busy then and is doubly busy now as the IIFA gets set to take Macau by storm in what's said to be the golden decade for the IIFA. His speeches, his humorous remarks, his dazzling performances on stage, him honouring the Lifetime Achievers and many more such instances makes IIFA worth it's wait, and no matter what people say about the IIFAs, for me, it's about this one man Amitabh Bachchan, who has lifted the IIFA torch with utmost pride, passion and conviction since a decade. The last time I met him was a good couple of weeks back when he was seen announcing the IIFA Macau in Mumbai's Grand Hyatt. The eyes were blue like a cloudless sky, a day full of sun. There was like endless love and comprehension in those eyes, it's what I remember the most, the expression of his eyes. He didn't look like the man on the screen but a man who was a simple human being and whose charm was a sort of childish innocence that has transformed him into a symbol of what India is for the rest of the world. Bollywood Hungama's London correspondent and UK's Harrow Observer columnist Devansh Patel manages to speak to this immaculate personality regarding the 10th IIFA Awards. A man, who is admired, loved and worshipped the world over for his undeniable support towards the Indian Film Industry - the larger than life Amitabh Bachchan.
Let's go back right to the start of the IIFA's. What would it have taken to satisfy you that this was the right choice in life you made by being an ambassador to an event which no one had even heard of? I always work on my instinct and today I am proud to be associated with IIFA. There was a time when no one knew actors outside India but today people around the world recognize us immediately. They know the names of characters I have played in my films. They are interested and excited about what our kind of cinema offers in terms of wholesome entertainment. This was all possible because of IIFA. I knew right from the very beginning that the IIFA would become bigger and better over the years to come.
I knew right from the very beginning that the IIFA would become bigger and better
The Golden Decade for the IIFA. Honestly, how much have you grown in these ten years along with the IIFA? This year is truly exciting for us as we celebrate a decade of the IIFA magic. The IIFA Weekend in Macau promises to be a one- of-a-kind experience. IIFA has brought Indian Cinema on the global platform so as the brand ambassador, I wish IIFA many more years of success. IIFA is like a family and every individual wants his family to flourish so I am no different. All I can say is IIFA has taught me a lot and given Indian cinema a great global exposure.
What appealed to you besides the fact that the IIFA is the only Indian award function taking place out of Indian shores? There is no single reason for me to be associated with IIFA, there are plenty. IIFA is very special to me and I am committed to enhancing the IIFA phenomenon every year. Besides taking the Indian cinema to international shores IIFA develops and promotes direct relationships between industries and organisations around the world. It is an interactive platform enhancing business and bi-lateral trade opportunities. IIFA has grown from one amazing night to the IIFA Weekend, working effectively as a movement dedicated to promoting Indian Cinema beyond India and placing it on an international platform by fostering exchange and interaction to enhance business opportunities.
Every IIFA proves to be better than the last one
Come to think of it, you're involved in a world of filmmaking that people think of as extremely consuming, high-powered, even cut-throat. Does the same apply to award functions too?
I will not be able to comment on other awards function but I know for the fact that the IIFA awards are very fair and IIFA's nomination process itself is different. The entire film industry is involved in it. We follow a standard and transparent procedure monitored and audited by PriceWaterCoopers. We take the integrity and honesty of this process very seriously.
Out of all the 9 IIFA's you've been a part of, which one in particular has made a profound impact on you and why? This is indeed a very difficult question because all the IIFA's that I have attended were different. Every IIFA proves to be better than the last one that's how we have accomplished a distinct ten year journey. It is very heartening to see IIFA grow to this scale and prominence over the years. IIFA entering its 10th year is a testament to its endurance and importance in the industry.
Have you ever visited Macau? And anything in particular you're looking forward to in what's termed as the Las Vegas of Asia, The Venetian?
This was my first time in Macau. The Venetian Macao-Resort-Hotel is a renaissance Venetian themed luxury hotel and casino, modeled on its sister casino in Las Vegas. It is the largest single structure hotel building in Asia considered to be the continent's most exciting destination. I was thrilled to explore the venue on my very first trip. I look forward to visiting the place again.
So who's the naughty one of the three Wiz Kids? More aggressive in his approach, more like a go-getter? All three have their own distinct personalities which compliment each other.
Different city, different fans, different food, different weather but similar passion for cinema everywhere. Aren't you fascinated with our Indian fans abroad, to see them come and back an event like IIFA? IIFA has given me a broader understanding of my fans. It is an ideal platform to know and connect with them internationally. The love and adulation that Indian cinema receives is beyond imagination. It is a very humbling experience.
The love and adulation that Indian cinema receives is beyond imagination
How was your Macau trip and how did the Press interactions go? I mean, Macau isn't a city where Indian films are prominently showcased, right?
The press interactions were fine. I went on a Gondola ride after 30 years!! This was my first visit to Macau and there is no doubt that the experience was phenomenal I am looking forward to going there again for the IIFA Weekend 2009 which will be celebrated on June 11 - 13, 2009
The 10th year celebrations this year at the IIFA will be packed with surprises. Anything from your end we should look forward to?
Wait and watch!Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 19 May 2009 | 10:18 am Farhan's sore throat might stall the song for Blue composed by Rahman
Farhan Akhar's song for Anthony D'Souza's Blue that composer A .R. Rahman has decided to record at the last minute, might get stalled by a bit, thanks to Farhan's sore throat.
Farhan has been shooting for his latest starrer Kartik Versus Kartik in a dry humid studio. "And I'm hugely allergic to dust. My throat has gone bad at a time when I least needed my voice to go bad. Working in dusty studios and singing just don't go hand-in-hand. I guess I'll just have to live with it."
There were no plans to use Farhan's vocals in Blue. But then Rahman who really liked Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy's tunes in Rock On wanted to incorporate Farhan's vocals into the Blue.
"Rahman has approached me and yes, I'm singing for him. It's a club-based song and I guess my voice goes well with the smoky mood."
Farhan admits it's a leap ahead for him as a singer. "In Rock On, I sang for myself. Now I'll get to sing for someone else, and that too a song composed by Rahman. Yeah I guess it's a leap forward."
But for that, Farhan will have to first wait for his throat to be fully functional again. "Kartik Versus Kartik is my most gruelling role to date. It requires a lot of physical action," says Farhan.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 19 May 2009 | 9:35 am Farhan Akhtar's sore throat may stall 'Blue' songFarhan Akhar's song for Tony D'Souza's underwater thriller 'Blue' that composer A.R. Rahman has decided to record at the last minute might get stalled a bit as the director-actor-singer is suffering from a sore throat.Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 19 May 2009 | 9:33 am 'O saathi re' sums up Prakash Mehra's philosophy of life: AnandjiHe didn't have an immediate family and that was why Prakash Mehra's films often showed a craving for kin, says Anandji, the surviving half of the music composer duo Kalyanji-Anandji who worked with the late filmmaker Mehra on many songs, including legendary numbers like 'Yaari hai imaan mera' for 'Zanjeer'.Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 19 May 2009 | 9:31 am "Decision to rope in Genelia has worked tremendously well" - Ken Ghosh
It has been merely 8 days that Ken Ghosh has shot with Genelia D'Souza and he is already going gaga over not just her performance but sheer exuberance that she has brought onto the sets. For his movie which is 'not titled Yahoo', Ken is glad that Genelia came into picture because it is turning out to be a huge value add for the film where the casting of the female lead protagonist has apparently gone through a sea change.
"Let's keep the past aside and talk only about current and future", says Ken in a cautious tone with obvious reference to the 'Genelia replacing Jiah' episode, "What gladdens me most is the fact our decision to rope in Genelia has worked tremendously for the film. It's all working out so brilliantly now. It has been only eight days of shooting with Genelia and I can stick my neck out and say that it was the best decision that I took for the movie."
When the character of the female lead protagonist was re-written, he was always confident that Genelia would suit the role perfectly and Shahid-Genelia 'jodi' would do quite well. However, once he started canning the shots, it only turned out to be a reaffirmation of sorts.
"It's a different feeling when you see your vision shaping up so very well in flesh and blood. Once the camera started rolling and I saw the results on the monitor, I said to myself - 'This is it'! Genelia is simply awesome in whatever she has done so far. Yes, I may be sounding all excited but it only reflects the true state of my mind right now", smiles Ken who is obviously ecstatic that his film has started making good progress all over again.
While Mr. Director is indeed happy with the change, how about Shahid Kapoor who has been summoned to shoot for quite a few scenes all over again. "Well, he is ecstatic too. A hero is always happy when he can have some good chemistry going with a co-star. In such a scenario, a hero will never mind the repeat act", winks Ken who has worked with Shahid in both his directorial ventures so far - Ishq Vishk and Fida.
Meanwhile, he continues to have a hearty laugh over some over zealous media people who are continuing to invent title by dozens for his film. "I am happy that there is curiosity about the title and the film in general. But I am really amused when a reporter calls me to confirm on a title, I categorically deny that title and still the next day when I pick up a newspaper, I see the same title being put in bold print. It's hilarious", concludes Ken.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 19 May 2009 | 9:08 am Akki longs to meet son after 65 days - Times of India
Source: Google News India - Entertainment | 19 May 2009 | 8:01 am Eyeing the international market
Click above for more movie stills
SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE has opened the doors for Indian films. It's said that the India Pavilion at Cannes is attracting ample footfalls, with international studios/agencies evincing a keen interest in Indian films.
Sanjiv Potnis, Dhiraj Kotkar and Vivek Singhania, the producers of KARMA - CRIME, PASSION, REINCARNATION, are elated that their film [with an international cast and crew] comes at a time when SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE is 'hot' across the globe. "Our film is targeted at not just the Indian diaspora, but also the international audiences. It has been made keeping the global audience in mind," Potnis and Singhania echo.
The makers have decided to dub the film in Hindi and release it simultaneously with the English version in the Indian market. It will be dubbed in Tamil and Telugu languages subsequently.
KARMA - CRIME, PASSION, REINCARNATION, directed by M.R. Shahjahan, talks of punar-janam [reincarnation] and the story bears a striking resemblance to Chetan Anand's immensely likable KUDRAT [Raaj Kumar, Rajesh Khanna, Vinod Khanna, Hema Malini, Priya Rajvansh]. "Well, the basic idea may be similar, but our film is completely different from KUDRAT. In KUDRAT, Hema is reborn as Hema, while in KARMA - CRIME, PASSION, REINCARNATION, the faces are dissimilar. Also, in KUDRAT, not just Hema, even Rajesh Khanna is reborn with the same face. In KARMA - CRIME, PASSION, REINCARNATION, it's just the lead actress," Singhania clarifies.
Singhania adds, "In fact, I made Chetan Anand-ji's son read the script before we commenced shooting. Even he agreed that the idea was similar, but the script was entirely different."Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 19 May 2009 | 6:52 am Freida Pinto's new look in Miral - Oneindia
Source: Google News India - Entertainment | 19 May 2009 | 6:52 am A golden chapter ends
Click above for more stills
A few weeks ago, Shakti Samanta passed away. Then Feroz Khan. Now Prakash Mehra. The golden era is coming to an end.
Manmohan Desai and Prakash Mehra regaled us with some memorable films. They were arch rivals, working with the same actor -- Amitabh Bachchan. Having grown up on their films, besides interacting with them subsequently [as a journalist], both Man-ji [as MKD was affectionately called] and Prakash-ji made films for the masses, the aam junta.
Prakash-ji was a simpleton, who dared to call a spade a spade. I would often meet him at his office at Sumeet [his studio in Juhu]. I would often bump into him while going for a preview screening. He would either be seated inside or taking his evening walks outside his office.
Prakash-ji kept himself updated with the film industry happenings, even when he stopped making films. He was saddened by the fate of JAADUGAR in particular and also dejected that his near and dear ones had deserted him after this monumental flop. Isn't it surprising that the man who made such memorable hits like ZANJEER, HERA PHERI, MUQADDAR KA SIKANDAR, NAMAK HALAAL, LAAWARIS and SHARAABI was written off the moment he delivered JAADUGAR, ZINDAGI EK JUAA and BAL BRAHMACHARI?
But such are the ways of this industry. You're as good, or bad, as your last Friday in Bollywood...
The media had a great time pitching Man-ji against Prakash-ji. Both would hit out at each other at regular intervals. Man-ji gave a classic quote once, "Only a 'Mard' [Man-ji's film] can make a MARD. Only a 'Sharaabi' [Prakash-ji's film] can make a SHARAABI." It sent shock waves within the industry at that point of time.
I met Prakash-ji subsequently and he thundered, "Tell Man, only a 'Coolie' [Man-ji's film] can make a COOLIE."
I didn't interact much with Prakash-ji [as much as I did with Man-ji; he was amongst my father's dearest friends], but I realized that Prakash-ji had a great sense of humour. He would crack jokes even during those evening walks, at the spur of the moment. The humour, in my individualistic opinion, reflected in his movies.
I remember watching NAMAK HALAAL at a preview screening at Sumeet with my father and I could see Prakash-ji staring at the faces of the guests, to gauge the feedback. He was never the recipient of those lofty awards, nor did he hanker after them. His awards were the 'House Full' boards that one witnessed outside theatres, screening his films.
Prakash-ji was a super person, a wonderful storyteller. The void will be difficult to fill.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 19 May 2009 | 6:46 am HC permits second TI parade in - Express Buzz
Source: Google News India - Entertainment | 19 May 2009 | 5:33 am In India, we act in a box and think we're right: Hrithik - Hindustan Times
Source: Google News India - Entertainment | 19 May 2009 | 5:28 am Why aren't Bollywood filmmakers approaching me? Jeffrey ArcherEvery book of his has been on bestseller lists in the last 30 years and he has been one of the most read contemporary English authors in India, but when it came to adapting his latest novel 'Paths of Glory' into a film, Jeffrey Archer says he is surprised to have not found any takers in India.Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 19 May 2009 | 4:00 am Genelia replaced Jiah because the character changed: Ken GhoshBollywood director Ken Ghosh insists that Jiah Khan's ouster from his upcoming film had nothing to do with her acting capabilities. He says he roped in Genelia D'Souza as the heroine's character changed over time.Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 19 May 2009 | 3:30 am Madhavan excited about '13B' going to Shanghai festActor R. Madhavan is overjoyed that his thriller '13B' has got an official entry to the 12th Shanghai International Film Festival and is looking forward to attending the event next month.Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 19 May 2009 | 3:30 am GENELIA NERVOUS OF SHAHID - Smash Hits
Source: Google News India - Entertainment | 18 May 2009 | 11:24 pm Kareena takes interest in Viveik's love-life - Times of India
Source: Google News India - Entertainment | 18 May 2009 | 6:41 pm Aamir Khan starrer Raakh to re-release after 20 years
When a film releases it is left to the audience to decide its fate; whether the film becomes a hit or a flop is
all a mystery best left to time. However, 20 years on, a film that was once released and vanished without a
trace will see the light of the day again. The film is in question is an Aamir Khan starrer titled
Raakh.
Raakh was came out in 1989 to critical acclaim and was widely covered by the film critics in the media.
It was a project of great importance for many of the cast and crew members who made their debut with this
movie. When we contacted Sangeeth Sivan, the Executive Producer of the film, he said, "The entire film is shot
like it's a home video. It does star Aamir in the lead, though it is a bit dark."
The movie acted as a crucial platform for many debutants like Aamir Khan, Santosh Sivan (Cinematographer),
Sreekar Prasad (Editor), , Aditya Bhattacharya (Director) & Asif Noor (Producer) all of who were under 30 years
of age at the time. The commendable fact is that Aditya Bhattacharya, who just 23 then, became the youngest
director of Bollywood at that time winning the Best Directorial debut award from the Bengal Film Journalists'
Association.
Raakh deals with an Indian Metropolis that is decaying, lawless and tragically corrupt. A typical party
ends in untypical violence. Aamir is awkwardly sensitive and inarticulate. Supriya Pathak, the poised distant
girl whom Aamir loves with mad desperation, is gang raped. She is a survivor. Disillusioned and practical, she
rules out revenge. Supriya has now grown beyond Aamir. Aamir, driven by impotent rage, hesitantly approaches
the law. Only to learn that the rapists are the ruling mafia clan whom neither he nor the police can touch
while he is violently uprooted from his safe, if lonely, upper class home. Thus begins the chaotic journey that
takes him into the precarious outer world. Here, his only friend, a street urchin offers him mute sympathy
until Pankaj Kapur- an embittered cop - cynical witness to the first outrage is goaded by his anesthetized
conscience to search out Aamir. An adolescent seeking manhood and the older man seeking his lost innocence come
together...
The rights for the film Raakh which were originally with the director, Aditya Bhattacharya, have been
purchased by Audacity International and Storm. Initially though, Sangeeth Sivan and Asif Noor, the producers of
the film, had planned on launching the film on a collectors DVD. However, after purchasing the rights for the
same, Audacity International has reworked on the original reels and has digitally re-mastered it. Raakh
is all set to re-release on the 12th of June.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 18 May 2009 | 5:34 pm Bipasha Basu to endorse luggage brand Aristocrat
After having lent her name to many a leading FMCG products ranging from shampoos, bikes, perfumes etc, she will now been seen endorsing the premium luggage brand Aristocrat. Bipasha Basu will play a pivotal role in enhancing the brand's aspiration value through its forthcoming nationwide advertising campaign. Apparently, Bipasha Basu will play a key role in the brand and product communication in print and outdoor media. She will also feature in various promotions and merchandise that have been planned for it.
Talking about this development, Sudhir Jatia, MD, VIP Industries Ltd., said, "Our association with Bipasha is a perfect brand fit and we are delighted to partner with her. She signifies style, class and good looks which resonate with our brand values and positioning. Needless to mention, she is one of the most reliable and bankable artists in the film industry."
Meanwhile, Bipasha Basu, said, "It gives me immense pleasure to be associated with Aristocrat, which is truly an Indian brand with international quality. I have always been a great admirer of the Aristocrat Luggage brand. They have stood the test of time for their reliability, exclusivity, innovation and quality."
Way to go⦠Bips!Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 18 May 2009 | 4:48 pm Strike Update: Talks fail, distribution strategy of release is thorny issueThere's no solution yet! A crucial meeting between producers/distributors' UPDF and multiplexes was held on Monday afternoon [18th May] at Grand Hyatt, Santacruz and everyone was confident that the stalemate would end today. But no, it hasn't! The terms offered by multiplexes are - Week 1: 50% [UPDF demand: 50%] Week 2: 42.5% [45%] Week 3: 32.5% [40%] Week 4: 27.5% [30%] The bone of contention is the distribution strategy of release, with UPDF feeling that they have a right to select its own strategy and what theatres they want to release their films in, but the multiplexes wants UPDF to supply prints to all the properties of the multiplexes. The UPDF and multiplexes didn't arrive at a consensus and the talks, unfortunately, failed again. The producers will stick to their stand of releasing their films at single screens and stand-alone multiplexes from 29th May onwards. The next meeting between UPDF and multiplexes is not yet scheduled.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 18 May 2009 | 4:39 pm Kareena Kapoor on the cover of OK!
In case you are finding the rising mercury levels too hot to handle, blame it on the one and only, Kareena Kapoor, for she is the one scorching it up on the cover page of OK! magazine. Bebo is seen dressed in a lemony green Christian Dior dress and is styled by ace stylist and designer Aki Narula.
In an exclusive interview with OK! in this month's issue, Kareena opens up like never before and talks about myriad topics ranging from the first time she wore a sari to her experience working with Hollywood legend Sylvester Stallone in Kambakkht Ishq.
The actress also reveals that contrary to what people think, she is quite a foodie and loves binging on her favorite French fries once a week
Bebo is someone who has always been open about her relationships and even in this interview, she bares it all while speaking about the relationship she shares with boyfriend Saif, sister Karisma and even her niece Samaira.
This one has Bebo at her candid best and is indeed a must read for all die hard Kareena fans.Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 18 May 2009 | 4:29 pm Get ready for 'MySpace Secret Shows' in IndiaMembers of social networking portal MySpace are in for a surprise - for they will have exclusive access to the portal's 'MySpace Secret Shows' which makes its debut in India with a concert where the identity of the performer will be under wraps until the last moment.Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 18 May 2009 | 4:00 pm Riteish Deshmukh, Boman Irani are IIFA hosts againThey had the audience in splits with their inimitable humour at the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) awards last year in Bangkok and they are set to do it yet again. This year too, Bollywood actors Boman Irani and Riteish Deshmukh will play hosts to the glitzy cine event that will be held in Macau.Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 18 May 2009 | 3:31 pm Check out Freida Pinto's latest look for her film Miral
Ever since the film Slumdog Millionaire won the Oscars, Freida Pinto has been making waves not just in Bollywood but even in its western counterpart Hollywood. The girl is literally stirring up the entire film scene with offers pouring in from all sides. The latest is her under production film titled Miral. The film is being directed by Julian Schnabel and will be completed somewhere next year. Co-starring alongside Freida in the film is Willem Dafoe.
Freida has been shooting for Miral in the old city of Jerusalem. Here, she is seen with her bodyguards who are leading her to the set of the film.
Miral is based on chronicling Hind Husseini's efforts to establish an orphanage in Jerusalem after the 1948 partition of Palestine and the creation of the state of Israel. The film is based on the novel by Palestinian-Italian writer Rula Jebreal that documents the real-life story of Hind Husseini.Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 18 May 2009 | 3:04 pm 'Angels and Demons' to be released in four languages May 29Tom Hanks-starrer 'Angels and Demons', which is currently on the top spot at the US box office, will release in India May 29 in four languages - English, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu.Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 18 May 2009 | 3:02 pm Akshay Kumar arrested and released on bail
It was not a happy homecoming for Akshay Kumar who was returning home after nearly a month of staying abroad. Akki, who arrived in Mumbai late last night, was arrested by cops at the Vakola police station early today morning. He was, however, subsequently released on bail.
It may be recalled that the actor was embroiled in a huge controversy when his wife Twinkle Khanna unbuttoned his jeans at the recently held Lakme India Fashion Week. An activist Anil Nair had taken offence and filed a case against the couple.
Akshay was arrested for the same case early today morning. However, since his case was a bailable one he was sanctioned bail. Earlier even his wife Twinkle was arrested and released on bail. One hopes this is the last of all miseries for Akki and Twinkle.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 18 May 2009 | 2:56 pm Sanjay Dutt, Ajay Devgan and Bipasha Basu on the sets of All The Best
Rohit Shetty, the name behind Golmaal and Golmaal Returns is back with a bang and how! If the mega starcast and the curiosity of his next film All The Best- Fun Begins is anything to go by, then, one can easily say that Rohit is sitting on a goldmine. This film stars Sanjay Dutt, Ajay Devgan, Bipasha Basu, Mugdha Godse and Fardeen Khan.
The moment we saw Sanju baba on the first day of the shoot, we just couldn't our eyes off him. He was looking like a true Rock Star with those glares and tattoos. Added to that was the cool scarf that plied its way on Sanju baba's neck. In short, Baba was all set to shoot this jazzy number with Bipasha and Ajay. The second schedule of the film is currently on and this song choreographed by Bosco-Caesar is being shot on a lavish set constructed on a South Goa beach. Pritam has composed the music for the film.
Knowing Sanjay Dutt's dedication and Rohit Shetty's penchant for comedy, one becomes absolutely sure that this Diwali bonanza that's slated for 16th October release will surely redefine 'Fun'! Just bring on the fun, we say!Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 18 May 2009 | 11:45 am
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