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Michael Jackson's death certificate for sale
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 9 Jul 2009 | 3:13 pm MJ's doctor denies giving dangerous drugs
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 9 Jul 2009 | 1:33 pm Shweta Tiwari, Aman Verma to be part of 'Iss Jungle Se..'After doing soaps and anchoring shows, popular television stars Shweta Tiwari and Aman Verma will now be seen struggling to survive in a jungle in Sony's new adventure reality show "Iss Jungle Se Mujhe Bachao", starting from July 13.Source: Entertainment News | 9 Jul 2009 | 1:30 pm Jackson memorial cost LA $1.4 million
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 9 Jul 2009 | 1:03 pm It's not enough for me to speak Hindi, English.: AkshayVoice modulation and languages were earlier considered Akshay Kumar's weak points as an actor.Source: Entertainment News | 9 Jul 2009 | 12:50 pm Baywatch to be turned into big screen comedy
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 9 Jul 2009 | 12:32 pm MJ's memorial watched by 31 mn in US: data
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 9 Jul 2009 | 10:29 am Jolie to be the new face of Armani
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 9 Jul 2009 | 10:12 am Ledger caused his own death, says father
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 9 Jul 2009 | 10:10 am Debbie Rowe broke down after Paris speech
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 9 Jul 2009 | 10:07 am Rakesh Roshan plans to make Krrish an international superhero
With Kites all set to go global, Rakesh Roshan has also revived the idea of a Krrish sequel. Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra will not be directing the Krrish sequel for Rakesh Roshan.
Rakesh has decided to take over the responsibility from Rakeysh, and with good reason. After Kites, Rakesh Roshan wants to take Hrithik's career to the next international level.
The next installment of Krrish will therefore be a super-hero film to compete with the Hollywood films of the genre like Batman, Superman and Spiderman.
Confirming these developments Rakesh Roshan, who has won the 'director of the decade' award in Macau, says, "The destiny of the next Krrish movie depends entirely on the way Kites goes. Kites director Anurag Basu and I are preparing two different versions of Kites in Hindi and English. The English version will be viewed by our potential buyers in the US. Only then will we move forward with plans on how to release Kites and how to make the next Krissh movie. We should release by December."
Rakesh Roshan hasn't directed a film since Krissh in 2006.But now he plans to go fully international with the Krissh sequel. "It all depends on the fate of Kites in the international market," says Rakesh Roshan.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 9 Jul 2009 | 9:47 am SnippetsJuly 08, 2009All roads in Los Angeles led to the Staples Centre yesterday. Perhaps the largest media event the world has ever witnessed, the memorial service of Michael Jackson was spectacular, emotional and unbelievable. The King of Pop was given a...JulySource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 9 Jul 2009 | 9:39 am Amitabh advised rest, under medical care - Times of India
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 9 Jul 2009 | 9:38 am Jackson won't be buried without his brain - Economic Times
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 9 Jul 2009 | 9:38 am Court stay on Short Kut for a day
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 9 Jul 2009 | 9:31 am Fiza replaces Negar Khan in Iss Jungle.. - Oneindia
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 9 Jul 2009 | 9:30 am Adhyayan to appear on Dekh India DekhAdhyayan Suman the face of Young India as addressed by Mahesh Bhatt, is all set to make a guest appearance on the sets of Sony’s Dekh India Dekh. He will be seen as a guest judge with Mahesh very soon. AsSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 9 Jul 2009 | 9:21 am Ramesh Arvind's next movie to release soonActor Ramesh Arvind is acting in another movie Krishna Nee Letagi Baro, which is produced by MD Prakash. Debut director Mohan is directing the movie. Besides Ramesh Arvind, it also features Nidhi Subbayya, Mohan and Neethu in the lead roles. TheSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 9 Jul 2009 | 9:18 am Paris Katherine's speech made mom cryParis Katherine Jackson, 11-year-old daughter of Michael Jackson, not only won the hearts of the audience but also won the love of her biological mother Debbie Rowe with her emotionally choked and tearful farewell speech at her dad's memorial service onSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 9 Jul 2009 | 9:17 am Watson's wardrobe malfunction at Harry Potter premiereLondon (ANI): Harry Potter star Emma Watson is the latest celebrity to suffer wardrobe malfunction as her frock slipped at the rain soaked premiere of Harry Potter And the Half-Blood Prince in London. The actress found it difficult to cover upSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 9 Jul 2009 | 9:17 am Sreejita De eyes BollywoodSreejita De who got recognition from the show Annu Ki Ho Gayi Waah Bhai Waah, now wants to move a step ahead. She is eyeing Bollywood; as a lead actress. Setting the wheels in motion she is already doing rounds ofSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 9 Jul 2009 | 9:11 am Fiza replaces Negar Khan in Iss Jungle..Well it’s a big twist in the tale of Sony’s the new reality show Iss Jungle Se Mujhe Bachao as one of the contestant’s Negar Khan is replaced by Fiza Chand Mohammad. This change was decided at the eleventh hour whenSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 9 Jul 2009 | 9:08 am Shiney's wife still hopeful about Shiney - Bollywood Mantra
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 9 Jul 2009 | 9:06 am Hamsalekha College to be built with Rs. 120 CrPopular Kannada musician Hamsalekha is all set to lay the foundation stone to his Desi Music University on the day of Kannada Rajyotsava on November 1. The University will be built with Rs. 120 crores in 50 acres of land. TheSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 9 Jul 2009 | 8:53 am Shamili turns a big sensation in TollywoodShalini's sister Shamili has become the latest sensation in Tollywood. Her debut movie as heroine in Telugu opposite Siddharth, which was released last Friday, has been appreciated by the critics and has also taken a decent opening at the Andhra boxSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 9 Jul 2009 | 8:50 am Mohanlal joins the Territorial ArmyAfter donning the olive green uniform in movies like Kirti Chakra and Kurukshetra Malayalam superstar Mohanlal is all set to don the Army uniform in real life. After cricketer Kapil Dev Mohanlal is the second celebrity to join the Territorial Army.Source: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 9 Jul 2009 | 8:47 am Amrita Rao: The surprise element of Short Kut - Oneindia
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 9 Jul 2009 | 7:33 am Kareena worships talent: Nothing else matters - Oneindia
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 9 Jul 2009 | 7:20 am Priyanka says no to throwing parties - Hindustan Times
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 9 Jul 2009 | 6:30 am NDTV Imagine Gains On Rakhi Ka Swayamvar; Colors Back At The Top - Reuters India
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 8 Jul 2009 | 7:09 pm Why Akshay wanted to party with SRK?
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 8 Jul 2009 | 6:04 pm Why Akshay wanted to party with SRK?When Akshay Kumar decided to throw his first party in Bollywood to celebrate the opening collections of his "Kambakkht Ishq", he made it a point to invite Shah Rukh Khan even though the superstar was far away in San Francisco.Source: Entertainment News | 8 Jul 2009 | 5:18 pm Hollywood stylist dresses up John for next filmJohn Abraham is set to get even more stylish.Source: Entertainment News | 8 Jul 2009 | 5:14 pm Live Chat: Imran Khan on July 10 at 1330 hrs IST (0900 hrs GMT)
Not many newcomers are fortunate enough to be catapulted to overnight stardom. 'Luck'ily for Imran Khan, he certainly was. His debut film Jaane Tu...Ya Jaane Na made Imran an overnight star and had more than half the nation's women swooning over him.
Even for his second film Kidnap, critics and audiences were unanimous in their praise for Imran's performance.
Imran will be in London later this week to promote his latest action flick Luck. Bollywood Hungama brings you a chance of a lifetime to get up, close and personal with Imran Khan as he will join you for a chat session live from London.
You may be in any part of the world but you can still get your questions answered from Imran. All you need to do to chat with Imran Khan is log on to Bollywood Hungama's Celebrity Chat on Friday, July 10, at 1330 hrs IST and 0900 hrs GMT (UK Time) .
This is your chance to get 'Luck'y with Imran. So, don't miss it!Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 8 Jul 2009 | 4:48 pm Singapore animation piggybacks on government support
Government support is crucial to the growth of any industry, more so the nascent animation and gaming sector in India. Point in case is Singapore's Media Development Authority that has given a fillip to the entertainment space in Singapore, raking in US$12.26 billion. In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama Dr Christopher Chia, Chief Executive Officer, Media Development Authority of Singapore, speaks about the his organization's initiatives and the industry's growth curve. Excerpts...
Where is Singapore's media industry headed?
Since the launch of the Media 21 blueprint in 2003 to chart growth for Singapore's media sector, the industry has experienced steady growth with revenues increasing to S$19.5 billion (US$12.26 billion) and employment numbers at over 54,000 as of 2006. Moving ahead, our next phase of growth will be guided by the newly-launched Singapore Media Fusion Plan, which aims to equip Singapore media companies to exploit the opportunities in a rapidly-changing global environment, marked by increased convergence and the rise of Asia as a content powerhouse and one of the most influential markets in the world.
What about the animation and gaming industries?
Singapore is also making headway in the fast-growing interactive and digital media space, boosted by the Government's commitment to invest in this sector as a future growth engine for the country. Today, international giants such as Lucasfilm, Electronic Arts and Ubisoft are based in Singapore, working in partnership with Singapore companies and talents to produce and distribute media content and services for the their customers worldwide. Last year, Singapore became the first country in Asia to launch the developer access to the Xbox LIVE Community Games Channel, less than a month after the service was launched in the US and Europe. To support budding game developers, MDA teamed up with software giant Microsoft to create games for the Xbox LIVE Community Games Channel.
Another coup was scored when Carneyvale:Showtime, a game fully developed by a group of Singaporean students under the Singapore-MIT GAMBIT Game Lab, beat 350 entries from around the world to win the top prize in the Microsoft XNA Dream-Build-Play competition. The GAMBIT Game Lab is an initiative announced in 2006 and is aimed at promoting research and development in the interactive and digital media space. It went on to become the first made-in-Singapore game on the Xbox Live Community Games Channel. Game developer portal Gamasutra voted Carneyvale the No.1 XNA Community Game of 2008, winning praises for its high fun factor.
Efforts to promote a culture of innovation in the interactive digital media field have resulted in a growing number of start-ups by enterprising individuals, offering innovative services and applications which have captured millions of users. For example, Garena by Singapore company, Garena Interactive Pte Ltd, is one of the most sought-after gaming platforms. It houses an online gamer community of 14 million registered users worldwide from over 200 countries. As Garena International has their own servers in place to host online games, they have the added advantage of marketing their new games to their global users all at once.
What about the TV/film industries?
Singapore television content, which was serving the needs of just the local audience five years ago, has expanded its reach with distribution in over 50 countries. Driving this outcome is a content strategy that encourages co-productions with leading international players to facilitate access to worldwide markets, as well as skills and knowledge transfer.
The film industry here has had a long history. In fact, the country was well-known within the Southeast Asian region for its creative output of Malay films in the 1950s and 1960s. Although output dipped in the 1980s and 1990s, Singapore filmmakers, with the support of the MDA and Singapore Film Commission, are once again coming to the fore in recent years, producing films that are winning accolades in the international film festival circuit. For every year in the last five years, a Singapore film has been featured at the Cannes Film Festival either in or out of competition, starting with director Eric Khoo's Be With Me in 2005, which opened the Director's Fortnight. Last year, Eric Khoo's My Magic was in competition for the prestigious Palme d'Or while visual artist Ho Tzu Nyen's HERE was screened at the Directors' Fortnight at this year's Cannes.
Tell me more about the funding initiatives for talent and capability development. What results do you expect from these and what gaps do they plug?
Education, training and upgrading of skill sets are of paramount importance as they nurture and groom a continuous pool of media talents, providing the skilled labour for media enterprises to take on higher value work.
Apart from the five local polytechnics which offer media-related programmes, several international media schools have establishes a base here. These include: Tisch Asia School of the Arts (film and media), Sheridan Global Animation (animation and design), and the DigiPen Singapore (animation, research and games development).
Beyond formal media education provided by the schools, MDA partners with various agencies - both private and government - on various programmes to train and upgrade the skill sets of media professionals. These benefit some 6,000 talents each year.
A recently-launched programme - Media Training & Attachment (META) - complements the existing network of manpower development initiatives. META aims to provide international exposure and work opportunities to local talents and media professionals by matching and upgrading their skills where needed, to projects and companies with corresponding needs.
What is the scope for foreign investment in Singapore?
Starting from the 1990s, Singapore's efforts to attract foreign investment into the country have, among other things, helped anchor a strong base of international cable and satellite networks in Singapore. Today, 15 out of 17 of the major international broadcasters are based in Singapore, uplinking content for their audiences in the region and beyond. In addition, networks such as CNBC Asia Pacific and ESPN Star Sports have also grown their businesses in Singapore. They have extended the production and reach of their content from the traditional television platform to interactive platforms such as mobile and the Internet.
Complementing this is the increased presence of international media players here, such as Electronic Arts, Ubisoft and Lucasfilm. These international companies have collaborated with local media companies, enabling co-production and other partnerships and opening up a wide spectrum of job opportunities, not only in the areas of broadcasting animation, games, film but also management positions.
On the publishing front, Singapore's strength in education and science has attracted four of the top five STM (Scientific, Technical and Medical) global publishers - Elsevier, Taylor Francis, Wiley-Blackwell and SAGE Publications. One of the world's favourite leisure titles, Reader's Digest, and leading in-flight magazine publisher Ink Publishing, also have their regional headquarters in Singapore.
For many years, MDA has also been working with financial institutions and media enterprises to encourage private sector's involvement in media financing. In the last few years, we are beginning to witness progress that suggests that a momentum is in place. We are seeing more and more of our local companies collaborating with banks, venture capitalists, business angels and private institutions in various ventures.
To date, there are more that S$1.3 billion (US$818 million) worth of media funds based in Singapore, covering the TV, film, animation, games and distribution sectors. The figure is a cumulative total, as a result of private capital injected by banks, financial institutions and strategic Investors over the past few years.
What kind of support can the creative professionals/ business expect from Singapore?
MDA has been and continues to extend its support to Singapore-based companies and projects with Singapore involvement. Our priority is to help our companies grow and boost the export of Made-by-Singapore content overseas. Underscoring this initiative is a co-production strategy that emphasis collaborations and co-production between Singapore companies and their international counterparts.
So while we support local media companies by growing the media ecosystem, including infrastructure, talent and technology capabilities, we are open to international companies partnering like-minded local players to set up their base in Singapore.
To support local media companies in light of the current economic situation, we have in place business-friendly policies to help industry players cope with this downturn.
Stimulating Demand by Providing Stronger Support to Industry in co-productions:
MDA will boost the development of content, applications and services by making more calls for proposals to develop niches in content, applications and services.MDA will also work closely with broadcasters to carry even more of such content on their platforms.
Provide Opportunities for Re-Skilling: With Singapore's media sector becoming increasingly globalised in the last few years, companies are creating internationally recognized media products and services. As the sector grows in sophistication, new jobs and skill-sets are required.MDA continues to work with companies to upskill, retrain and upgrade workers through talent development programmes such as the Media Training and Attachment Programme (META).
Market Development: In this economic climate, MDA recognizes the importance of ensuring that our local companies gain traction in the international arena so that they have access to new partners.Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 8 Jul 2009 | 4:32 pm Big B in hospital for 'routine checkup'Bollywood star Amitabh Bachchan went to Lilavati Hospital here today morning for what was described as "a routine checkup", though in his blog he has complained of a stomach ache.Source: Entertainment News | 8 Jul 2009 | 4:31 pm Rakhi to wear Rs.3 mn necklace on 'swayamvar' D-dayRakhi Sawant surely couldn't have asked for more.Source: Entertainment News | 8 Jul 2009 | 4:28 pm Music Preview: Teree Sang
Download Teree Sang wallpapers
In the times when Bollywood is desperately looking for some fresh sound with new as well as established composers going all out to create something unique, arrival of composer duo Sachin-Jigar comes across as a pleasant surprise. Though they have been in news for all the wrong reasons (for his film Teree Sang, producer-director Satish Kaushik replaced already existing songs composed by Anu Malik with the tunes created by Sachin-Jigar), all would be forgotten once their music hits the stands.
With their five compositions for Teree Sang, Sachin and Jigar (both in their 20s) have come up with some very good music that is young, contemporary and yet has a mix of a new sound and an old world charm.
Two songs that are bound to make a smashing impact once they are heard in entirety are 'More Saiyaan' and 'Maula', both of which have a rock base to them. While former has an Indian classical flavor fused with rock (and hence reminds of the score from Life In A...Metro), 'Maula' has a great rhythm to it which is bound to connect with the youth.
Not that Sachin and Jigar have got carried away with the new age sound. After having worked with Pritam for quite a long duration, they have applied their learning and also created three numbers that are as melodious as they get.
The best of the lot here is 'Rab Mileya' that has a 'pahadi' setting to it (courtesy, a major portion of the film being shot in Dalhousie) and has core Indian sensibilities to it. 'I Will Be There For You' is young and contemporary with a simple sound to it. A bonfire track that has in it to strike a chord amongst the campus crowds, the song is tailor-made for two teenage hearts in love.
What pleasantly surprises though is 'Laija Laija' that is situational and yet leaves a good impact after a couple of hearing. A pure Indian number that comes sans any Western trappings, it is a difficult song to compose and sing. However, Sachin and Jigar come up with a tune that is not just pleasant to the ears but also lingers in your mind long after you have heard it.
After hearing the album, one can only say that with quality soundtracks like Jashnn, Love Aaj Kal and Kaminey already bringing some smiles on the face of the music lovers, Sachin-Jigar's Teree Sang music will only be a welcome addition.
Watch out for the detailed review of Teree Sang once the album hits the stands.Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 8 Jul 2009 | 4:27 pm Shiney Ahuja's bail plea rejectedMUMBAI (Reuters) - A city court on Wednesday rejected the bail application of Bollywood actor Shiney Ahuja who is in prison on charges of rape, prosecutors said.Source: Reuters: Bollywood News | 8 Jul 2009 | 4:25 pm It's not love, Saif, it's botox! - Times of India
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 8 Jul 2009 | 4:09 pm Shiney Ahuja's bail plea rejectedA Mumbai court today rejected the bail application filed by actor Shiney Ahuja.Source: Entertainment News | 8 Jul 2009 | 3:55 pm "A numerologist told me K would be lucky for Short Kut" - Anil Kapoor
He came, he saw, he produced and he conquered. Anil Kapoor floored the enthusiastic media in New York at Studio 18's press conference of Short Kut- The Con Is On on Monday evening held at the up beat Praana Restaurant in Manhattan.
The ever-so-young Bollywood star flew in from Los Angeles where he was shooting for the popular T.V. series 24, to New York to address the media about his forthcoming production, Short Kut, which releases worldwide on Friday, 10th July.
"10th July is an important day on two counts. Not only does Short Kut- The Con Is On release on that day but I also start my third production on the same date with director Anees Bazmee. Anees and I have worked together before in No Entry and Welcome. My third film as a producer has been in pre-production for some time and goes into production on the 10th," remarked the congenial and humble veteran.
Commenting on Short Kut- The Con Is On, Anil added, "It is a fun commercial film, which you can sit back and enjoy with your family. I'm not expecting any critical acclaim or awards for it. Its job is to entertain." He laughed about Short Kut being spelt with a K."A numerologist told me K would be lucky for Short Kut. It better be or else I'll hammer him!"Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 8 Jul 2009 | 2:22 pm Sudhir Mishra teams up with Chitrangda for political thriller Homecoming
The dusky Chitrangda who made her influential debut in Sudhir Mishra's Hazaron Khwaishein Aisi and was all set to team up with the director for his take on Devdas, is now the lead in the auteur director's most autobiographical film to date.
Sudhir Mishra's new film entitled Homecoming which will be shot in the director's hometown will tell the story of a woman's return to her roots.
In essence, Chitrangda will be playing Sudhir Mishra. With his big project Dhruv for producer Ritesh Sidhwani on hold until the lead players Farhan Akhtar and Kareena Kapoor's dates are co-ordinated, Sudhir Mishra is making productive use of the time in-between.
He is going back to his roots in his hometown Sagar in Madhya Pradesh to make his most personal political thriller to date.
Divulging details of the project which starts next month Sudhir says, "It's aptly called Homecoming. I wrote the script in the last month-and-half. Perhaps it's my effort to reclaim my past. It looks at all the politics that I've seen in my house while growing up. My maternal grandfather was the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh. I grew up watching and observing the politics of both the privileged and the protesting classes. Homecoming will look at the relationship between the wronged and the wrongdoer of our society in a political context."
Chitrangda will play a woman who returns to her hometown to repay the favour of a man now in prison who has once bailed her out at a critical stage in her life.
All the details are quickly being finalized for the shooting to begin next month. But Chitrangda is on for the principal part. The film will be shot on location in Mishra's hometown Sagar. Homecoming will also star newcomer Arunoday Singh.
About the delay in Druv, Mishra says, "Why rush it? I'd rather make it with the actors I want rather than compromise for the sake of speed. And in the meanwhile, I'm making a film that I really believe in. So what's the problem?"
This would be his most personal cinema to date, falling into the hard-hitting gritty realistic space that's the director's forte. But Sudhir has nothing against commercial cinema. "In fact I saw Mudassar Aziz's Dulha Mila Gaya on Tuesday night and enjoyed it thoroughly. Mudassar used to be my assistant. I love his exuberant style of storytelling and I love Sushmita Sen's comic timing."
In fact Sudhir now wants to cast Sushmita in a full-fledged comedy.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 8 Jul 2009 | 1:27 pm Live Chat: Chunky Pandey on July 10 at 1500 hrs IST
He is an actor who started out way back in the late eighties with hardcore commercial potboilers like Paap Ki Duniya and Aag Hi Aag. He ruled the hearts of one and all with memorable performances in films like Tezaab, Aankhen, Vishwatma etc. Later on, he started focusing more on supporting character roles in films like Qayamat, Apna Sapna Money Money and Fool-N-Final. He is none other than the incredibly talented and versatile Chunky Pandey.
Chunky was recently seen as the funny don in Paying Guests and has not one but two interesting films lined up for release this week- Short Kut- The Con Is On and Sankat City. Bollywood Hungama gives you an opportunity to have an interesting chat with Chunky Pandey only on Celebrity Chat on July 10 at 1500 hrs IST.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 8 Jul 2009 | 12:51 pm Jackson fans prepare farewell to King of Pop!Fans around the world will bid a poignant farewell to Michael Jackson on Tuesday.Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 8 Jul 2009 | 12:46 pm Tears and tributes mark Michael Jackson`s farewell!A host of celebrities and thousands of fans descended in Los Angeles to sing, cry, dance and share their memories of Jackson, as he was laid to rest.Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 8 Jul 2009 | 12:46 pm "Short Kut is going to be the best laughter attack this July" - Amrita Rao
Download Short Kut - The Con...wallpapers
The first time the world took notice of Amrita Rao; she was wearing heels and romancing Shahid Kapur in Ishq Vishq. The second time we saw her, we were in for a shock. Her over the top and yet underplaying the character in Main Hoon Na stood out from the cliche roles Bollywood actresses were being offered. The third time someone took notice of her, she seduced everyone, especially the renowned painter M.F.Hussain. He proclaimed Amrita his muse on canvas. The film was Vivah. Since that moment three years ago, Rao has become known as a maverick in a way that has generally only been applied to directors. She is more maverick than muse, making personal and unpredictable choices, and taking charge of them without throwing her weight around in the manner of an actor-turned-producer. Anil Kapoor came as an exception. He was mesmerised by Rao's role in Vivah and cast her in his second outing as a producer, Short Kut - The Con Is On. Amrita loves challenges and she accepts it when I met her (not for a 'date' this time) at her producers' office in Juhu last week. The actress is always casually but fabulously dressed, and invariably assumes a kittenish position with her legs tucked beneath her, a modern princess on her throne. She is extraordinary looking with a hint of Uma Thurman's queenly bone structure, her kittenish eyes with a melancholy downward slant in a sweet, heart-shaped face. She sits directly opposite me, her feet planted firmly on the floor and her role planted firmly in Short Kut. She asks for a glass of water and coolly, in a tone that brooks no argument, says, "I'm late... so let's start."
When was the last time you were conned by someone?
I think the last time I was conned by someone was Anil Kapoor to sign Short Kut (laughs).
Anil Kapoor said, "I see a bit of Madhuri Dixit in Amrita", when asked about your casting.
I think to have your own individuality is always better. But to be compared with somebody who is better than the best is also not such a bad idea (laughs). Of course, it is a good compliment and I accept it. Thank you Anil.
I'm glad I was not typecast yet another time by an industry which is otherwise prejudiced
Your slim trim look in the film is much talked about. But it ain't a make over, is it?
You're right. I wouldn't call it a makeover. A makeover is for an aunty who is dragged from her kitchen and given a lifestyle which was never a part of her world or personality. As an actress, for me, versatility is something that should come along with being an artist or an actor, and the opportunity you get makes all the difference in how you are presented in front of your audience. I'm glad I was not typecast yet another time by an industry which is otherwise prejudiced.
I'm sure you must've got innumerable text messages for the same?
Yes. Honestly, you do certain kind of a film and you're a hit among the crowd. Not for all your films you get text messages complimenting your look, where everybody is talking about your physical appearance. Short Kut is doing just that. I'm getting seven to ten text messages daily from random people from all walks of life. Somebody from advertising, some trainer from the gym, etc. I think people need to thank Manish Malhotra for making me look sexy.
There was a lot said and seen that the entire cast of Short Kut was never seen together promoting their film.
Can't you see that none of the cast are promoting the film together? I mean, you are interviewing me alone. There is no sign of Arshad or Akshaye (laughs). I was just supposed to be funny. But in the film, both of them are logger headed. Both are very good actors and I don't think that any of them took their characters so seriously that they extended the emotions off screen. We were promoting the film together in Macau and that was great.
I think people need to thank Manish Malhotra for making me look sexy
You've danced with Sanjay Dutt and Anil Kapoor in 'Mareez-E-Mohabbat'. Both can't dance saala?
(Laughs). Both of them aren't exceptionally great dancers, let's get this right. But they are great performers and entertainers. Both Sanju and Anil have a great screen presence and are like chalk and cheese. Both have different styles of working. Anil is somebody who gets very anxious and hyper about rehearsing the steps twenty times before he hits the deck. Whereas, Sanju is just sitting quietly and observing the step carefully. Then comes and gets it right. Both of them get it right but their approach is miles apart.
Anil and Sanju aren't exceptionally great dancers, let's get this right. But they are great performers and entertainers
Did you go through some physical stress while going into the skin of slimming?
(Laughs) It was not at all difficult. In fact, I was looking forward to it. I knew I could do it and I have always seen myself as that girl from Short Kut. For an actor, anything that is going to be a little drastic in terms of styling and characterisation is always accepted. It wasn't mentally stressful, but physically, it did take a lot of skin off me (laughs).
Anil Kapoor... the traits of your new producer?
Anil was completely wearing the producer's hat when he was on the sets as a producer. That time he wasn't the actor Anil Kapoor. He would go to each spot boy, each make up artist and check whether they are happy staying where they are put up. He would go and check on the food, then come and meet me, pep me up for a shot, etc. Anilji is exceptional when it comes to giving pep talks to the other actors. Otherwise, in the industry, everybody is downsizing everybody. But when someone like Anil Kapoor charges you as a performer, you really look forward in spending more time in their company.
How strong and sound is Mansi's character compared to the other roles you've played in different films?
Mansi comes from a family background where she had a lot of pressures from home. Family members influencing her professional choices, telling her what films to sign, for reasons other than creative satisfaction. In that sense, she was a part of the family with whom she could not relate to. At the same time she wasn't subservient. She had a mind of her own and stood her own grounds. She went against the family when needed. I really like these strong woman roles. I've never played a role like in Short Kut. It's super strong.
I've never played a role like in Short Kut. It's super strong.
Amrita Rao is the new rage?
You can say so. It's great that I'm the new rage of tinsel town. I'm also not saying that this hasn't happened to me before because I remember the perm hair I did for Ishq Vishq had become such a big rage. Every girl went and permed her hair after seeing the film. In Main Hoon Na, the nose ring became such a rage. Every girl wanted to have the grunge look. Thanks to my directors who think out of the box and look at actors unconventionally. Anil Kapoor as a matter of fact, as a producer, has this vision of not to type cast his actors.
What's going to be the fate of Short Kut?
New York was a serious film. Kambakkht Ishq was an out and out masala movie. Short Kut is going to be the best laughter attack this July. I really want all the films to do well because I belong to this industry. That's the only way how we will survive after the depression. I would not want to 'Kut' on other films (laughs).
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Did Akshaye come across as vulnerable?
No. He came across as unpredictable. He is somebody who surprises you all the time. But when it comes to acting, he surpasses most actors who are so called 'superstars'.
Arshad and Akshaye are two actors who haven't been tapped properly by many producer directors...
I agree. Somewhere the industry doesn't want to take risks. Somewhere the industry has decided what the audience wants and what they will accept. Akshaye would've only been known as a serious actor had films like Hungama and Salaam-E-Ishq not come his way. Arshad is super talented. He will remain 'Circuit' all his life. Give Arshad a hard core serious performance and I'm sure he will do a brilliant job. I, as an audience would love to see that.
There is no short cut to success. You believe in it?
I don't completely believe. You also need to know when and how to take a short cut. By the way, short cut is the new life to be super successful.Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 8 Jul 2009 | 11:28 am Live Chat: Kay Kay Menon on July 9 at 1400 hrs IST
He is a true powerhouse of talent, having displayed his class in roles of every genre. Be it as the scheming Vishnu in Sarkar or the revolting Siddharth in Hazaron Khwaishein Aisi, be it his portrayal of the lovable Partho Sen in Honeymoon Travels Pvt. Ltd. or the evil Riz Raizada in Drona, this actor has truly impressed one and all with his acting histrionics. Yes...Ladies and Gentlemen we are indeed talking about the one and only Kay Kay Menon.
Last seen as the ruthless Dukey Bana in Gulaal, Kay Kay now has an interesting dark comedy Sankat City up for release. If the promos of this film are anything to go by, this one promises to be yet another hatke film. Bollywood Hungama gives you a chance of a lifetime to get up, close and personal with the talented Kay Kay only on Celebrity Chat on Thursday, July 9, at 1400 hrs IST.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 8 Jul 2009 | 11:24 am Asin declines to promote vegetarianism"Ghajini" fame actress Asin Thottumkal has turned down animal welfare group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals' (PETA) request to promote vegetarianism.Source: Entertainment News | 8 Jul 2009 | 10:44 am Asin's Indo-Japanese project falls through
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Kamal Haasan has apparently pulled out of the big-budget Walt Disney production. Asin's prestigious Indo-Japanese project The 19th Step is apparently shelved leaving Asin with tons of time that she had set aside not only to learn and practice the ancient art of Kalaripayattu but also to shoot for the film in Japan and Kerala.
According to sources the project has fallen through for no fault of Asin's. Says the source, "The film's producers Walt Disney and leading man Kamal Haasan have had a serious disagreement. He isn't doing the film. And if Kamal Haasan isn't doing the film, neither is Asin. She agreed to do a Tamil film at this juncture when her Hindi career has taken off, only because of Kamal Haasan whom Asin respects a lot."
At the time of writing this The 19th Step seems as good as shelved. And Asin, inundated with offers is work-less! Unless she quickly accepts another project to fill the empty date diary.
Says a source close to the actress, "Asin is upset with the way the whole Indo-Japanese project was managed. After Vipul Shah's London Dreams, she said no to everything in Mumbai including Priyadarshan's De Dana Dan and Farhan Akhtar's Kartik Calling Kartik for 19th Step when Kamal Haasan whom she respects immensely requested her to."
Incidentally, the number of projects with A R Rahman's music to be shelved or cancelled have just gone a 'step' ahead with 19th Step. Mani Ratnam's Lajjo and Kamal Haasan's Marmyogi were also shelved recently. And earlier Bharat Bala who was to direct 19th Step was supposed to do Taj Mahal with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan as Mumtaz Mahal with Rahman's music. That too got shelved.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 8 Jul 2009 | 10:13 am Shruti Hassan sizzles in two-piece swimwear - Oneindia
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 8 Jul 2009 | 10:02 am Abhishek, Aishwarya urged to help lovebirdsBollywood's popular couple - Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai - has been approached by animal rights group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) to create awareness about the plight of lovebirds through a special photo shoot.Source: Entertainment News | 8 Jul 2009 | 9:10 am 'Short Kut...' a fun hare and tortoise story: Neeraj"Short Kut - The Con Is On" is a fun-filled "hare and tortoise story" that has Akshaye Khanna and Arshad Warsi playing a "lethal combination", says writer-director Neeraj Vora, who adds that it has no semblance to his last film "Phir Hera Pheri".Source: Entertainment News | 8 Jul 2009 | 8:59 am
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