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'No One Killed Jessica' not about murder case: directorDirector Rajkumar Gupta of "Aamir" fame says his second film's title may have a stark resemblance to the Jessica Lall murder case, but "No One Killed Jessica" is not based on it.Source: Entertainment News | 11 Nov 2009 | 8:44 am Simple Kapadia passes away
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 11 Nov 2009 | 8:29 am Simple Kapadia passes awayFormer Bollywood actress and designer Simple Kapadia died here on her 51st birthday after battling cancer for three years.Source: Entertainment News | 11 Nov 2009 | 8:11 am Of course Ranbir and I are competitors: Neil Nitin MukeshTheir grandfathers were best friends, their fathers enjoy great camaraderie and Neil Nitin Mukesh says he and Ranbir Kapoor are pals too.Source: Entertainment News | 11 Nov 2009 | 7:13 am Riteish Deshmukh plays a Sardar in Aftab's Aao Wish Karein
There was a time when directors making cameos in their own films were considered to be a fad. Now the latest trend seems to be getting an actor to do a cameo in a film that has been hyped to the hilt, without even a mention about the star's presence.
The last well-kept secret cameo that Bollywood witnessed was that of Deepika Padukone in the film Main Aurr Mrs Khanna, a film which only showcased the on-screen presence of Salman, Kareena and Sohail Khan. This time round, it is the Aftab-Aamna starrer fantasy flick Aao Wish Karein, directed by Glenn Baretto. We found out that Aftab's chaddi-buddy Riteish Deshmukh will be seen playing a Sardar in the film. Our sources also went to the extent of furnishing us with the snap of Riteish's look in the film.
When Bollywood Hungama spoke to director Glen Baretto, unlike many directors, this man was indeed sweet enough to admit the presence of Riteish in the film. Not just that, he also went to the extent of telling that, "Riteish is not making a cameo in the film. He is actually the grown up version of the Sardar kid whom you have seen in the promos. He plays Bonny, Aftab's best friend. Riteish agreed to do this as a gesture of friendship towards Aftab Shivdasani."
So friends, Aao Wish Karein that friendships in Bollywood should be as real as Aftab and Riteish!Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 11 Nov 2009 | 7:12 am Ranbir and I are competitors: Neil Nitin
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 11 Nov 2009 | 6:46 am 'Paa' merchandise to hit markets after releaseA series of merchandise aimed at children is being planned after the release of "Paa" in which Amitabh Bachchan plays 13-year-old Auro suffering from the premature ageing disease progeria.Source: Entertainment News | 11 Nov 2009 | 6:11 am Aamir Khan unhappy with 3 Idiots chat & online music launch?
If you thought you were the only one sick and tired of bad net speeds and server crashes, think again. Bollywood's very own perfectionist Aamir Khan couldn't help but complain as he seemed unsatisfied with the recently held online chat that was organized to launch the music of 3 Idiots.
Aamir writes in his latest blog post, "One day I will be able to organize a chat that way I imagine. Hasn't happened yet, but we'll get there. The big challenge is to be able to take the volume of traffic. By the time we finished with the lobby and I tried to enter my chat room, I discovered to my horror that I COULDN'T. TOO MUCH TRAFIC I WAS TOLD."
And then there is more, "So the tech team had to quickly create a new chat room for me. Well, I can tell you that the 3i cast and crew had a super time, and we were very happy and blessed to have in our midst the parents of Shantanu and Swanand."
On a lighter note, Aamir goes on to talk about sipping tea, watching the rain and missing his wife Kiran Rao, who's shooting in Panchgani.
He then reminiscences a classic from Roti Kapda Aur Makan in which Zeenat Aman sings to Manoj Kumar 'Hai hai yeh majboori, yeh mausam aur yeh doori'. Surely, a better chat application would enable the couple to bond over the net.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 11 Nov 2009 | 5:36 am No quiz shows for children any moreOnce upon a time quiz shows formed the Sunday television staple for children.Source: Entertainment News | 11 Nov 2009 | 5:35 am 'Every actor should work with Rajkumar Santoshi'Bollywood's current hearthrob Ranbir Kapoor, who plays the male lead in Rajkumar Santoshi's recently released hit romantic comedy Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani, is all praise for him and says that the filmmaker is an institution in himself.Source: | 11 Nov 2009 | 4:43 am Suniel Shetty bags Best Actor award
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 11 Nov 2009 | 3:57 am AB Corp plans to launch 'Auro' merchandise after the release of Paa
After the release of Paa, merchandise connected to the film's young protagonist Auro played by the Big B, is being planned. For the first time his younger fans will have Big B merchandise including dolls to play with.
The producers, AB Corp Ltd, have planned an 'Auro' blitzkrieg to connect the character with children across the world.
While a series of Auro merchandise are planned post the film's release, on Children's Day, Mr. Bachchan as Auro will come on television with a very special message for children.
Confirms the director, ''We're most definitely targeting Paa at children and parents alike. Mr Bachchan's Auro is a special child suffering from an extremely rare age-hastening disease. Auro could've easily become lonely isolated or
abandoned. Paa shows how special 'special' kids can be. It has a message on parenting rather than any disease. When your child is born with a special impairment, you need to make him feel special, not unwanted or isolated.''
In what could be the first campaign-oriented big-budget Bachchan starrer, Paa promises to bring into focus the parent-child relationship in a series of television campaigns.
There are now plans to do special shows of Paa to collect funds for the Progeria Research Foundation. Says Balki, ''We really had no concrete plans to tie up with the Progeria Foundation. Though our protagonist suffers from the disease, the film is not about Progeria. It's about how special children can fill your life with special brightness. Not for a minute does my protagonist's special condition qualify his relationship with his parents. That's why we avoided pitching Paa as a Progeria project. However, we'd be more than happy if our film proves helpful to children who suffer from the rarest-of-rare diseases.''
A special show in aid of the Progeria Research Foundation is now being planned. Says Balki, ''We're still to work out details since we hadn't really planned any Progeria events Paa. We're definitely holding a charity screening of which the proceeds will be given to the Progeria foundation in the US.''Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 11 Nov 2009 | 3:54 am Eva Mendes suffers wardrobe malfunction
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 11 Nov 2009 | 3:35 am Simple Kapadia passes away!Yesteryear Bollywood actress and costume designer Simple Kapadia has succumbed to cancer. Simple was Dimple Kapadia's younger sister. She'd been battling cancer for the last three years. Source: | 11 Nov 2009 | 3:21 am Southern film industry takes on Bollywood
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 11 Nov 2009 | 3:03 am "Industry is always shocked when a film succeeds" - Ramesh Taurani
Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani is busy finding an entry in the record books and for Ramesh Taurani of Tips Music Films, it's the third major success in a row after Race and Kismat Konnection. With Ajab Prem... seemingly all set to cross the collections of Race and turn out to be the biggest success ever for the production house, the filmmaker obviously has good reasons to celebrate. As the film passes the test of the dreaded Monday (by not registering a major fall and staying on comfortably at the box office), Joginder Tuteja catches up with the Ramesh Taurani who now be beginning work on Race 2.
At the least, Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani should turn out to be a hit with expectations of a better box office tag in weeks to come. Were you always expecting such a huge opening or you too have been surprised?
Frankly, I am not surprised at all. In fact I would have been disappointed had the collections been any lesser. I was always super confident of the product in hand and this is the reason why our marketing and promotion team went all out to make the film accessible to the 'junta'. We knew that Ajab Prem... is the kind of film that would break the multiplex v/s single screens and urban centres v/s small town barrier. It was meant to be a film for all segments of audiences and as you can see from the collections, it is pretty much in line with our thought.
We knew that Ajab Prem... is the kind of film that would break the multiplex v/s single screens and urban centres v/s small town barrier
A large segment of the industry and media is shocked though to see the way Ajab Prem... has performed. Agreed that it had Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif in the lead with chartbuster music by Pritam. Still, a start like has resulted in quite a few reactions?
[Laughs] The industry we are in, it will always be shocked at something as phenomenal as this. We have a tendency for extreme reactions and this is no exception. I am happy though that it has happened when a film has been a success and brought in money back into the industry. It is heart breaking when a film's failure results in a shock!
Even for Raj Kumar Santoshi, this must be a shot in the arm. After Halla Bol and Family, he must have been really down while making the film?
See, no one can deny the greatness of Raj Santoshi as a director. The talent was always there in him and he has making good films too. It's just that a good director also needs an overall good set up. He should have a good producer, good set of actor, good music - everything.
This seems to be the reason why he was going gaga over the way the film was being promoted. Even for the film's release, he seemed to be ecstatic about the fact that the buzz was catching up on the film in a big way...
That's right. As I stated earlier, during the making we knew that we had a very good product in hand. This is why we came up with smart campaign to be in accordance with the kind of commercial film that Raj had made. We had to make sure that the film reaches out to the audiences.
Time and again, it is stated that the film's real test comes on Monday after the initial hype dies down over the weekend. Seems like Ajab Prem... has passed the test?
And with flying colours (says immediately). The film has stayed stable quite extraordinarily on Monday as well which gives a clear indication of how word of mouth has spread all over and it has been liked immensely. That's the hallmark of a good family film because the genre of Ajab Prem... is such that it cuts the boundaries. It can be seen anytime, anywhere and by anyone.
The film has stayed stable quite extraordinarily on Monday as well
Meanwhile, what happens to Race 2?
The film is on the right path and we would begin work on it in full swing now that Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani has released. Come February/March 2010 and Race 2 will go on floors. The film will certainly be bigger and better than the first part. If you thought that the twists and turns in Race were deadly then watch out for the sequel. There are many more surprises in the offering. What I can promise is though is that just like Race, this one too is an expensive thriller and would be shot on a lavish scale in foreign locations. The action too would be many notches higher.
Come February/March 2010 and Race 2 will go on floors
There has been confusion around Saif Ali Khan, Anil Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor being on board in Race 2?
Along with Saif Ali Khan, only Anil Kapoor is finalised for Race 2. These two are integral elements of the film and cannot be done away with. For the rest of the star cast, the decision would be taken once the script is finalised. Expectations are so high from the film that we have to be doubly sure and get everything perfect before we start shooting for the film. Now whether Bipasha Basu, Katrina Kaif or Akshaye Khanna would be repeated in the sequel or if Kareena Kapoor would be added to the cast or would replace any of the earlier leading ladies is something on which I can't comment on right now. Let the script be ready and we will decide on the balance star cast only after that.
There have also been rumours that Abbas-Mustan may not necessarily be directing the sequel. Is that true?
That's baseless. They are certainly directing the sequel.Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 11 Nov 2009 | 2:44 am Andrita Ray going on a world tour!Actress Andrita Ray, who is basking on the success of the movie Manasaare at the Box Office, is now all set for a world tour. The Kannada actress is visiting several exquisite travel destinations over the next month to pursue herSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 11 Nov 2009 | 2:43 am Ronnie Wood, Jo's divorce todayLondon (ANI): The divorce between Rolling Stones Ronnie Wood and his estranged wife Jo is being finalised today at the High Court in London. The two are due to be granted a decree nisi, and Jo, 54, is expected to citeSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 11 Nov 2009 | 2:42 am Simon Cowell is Top Male Earners of US TVWashington (ANI): ‘American Idol’ judge Simon Cowell has been named the top earning man on prime-time U.S. Television by Forbes magazine. Cowell earned 75 million dollars last year, reports Us magazine.Forbes'' list of Top Male Earners on prime-time U.S. TV isSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 11 Nov 2009 | 2:40 am Sreejita De's brush with horrorSreejita De will be soon seen in the Sony’s Aahat all new series which will be starting this weekend. The actress will be seen in the first episode of the horror show which was an all together a new experience forSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 11 Nov 2009 | 2:36 am Malayalam star Mohanlal is amongst one of Priyanka's 7 husbands - Times of India
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 11 Nov 2009 | 2:28 am The Mumbai Film Festival has 70 % growth this year - Times of India
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 11 Nov 2009 | 2:28 am Carrie Prejean in racy sex tape scandalFormer Miss California Carrie Prejean is in the news again for wrong reason. She has hit the headlines for her racy sex tape that has hit the net. She considers it as the biggest mistake of her life.Prejean revealed on theSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 11 Nov 2009 | 2:13 am Aditi becomes Mallika on Bigg BossEveryone enjoys attention especially when one doesn’t have to lift a finger for anything! Here we are talking about the new weekly task ‘Malika-e-Bigg Boss’. As per the task, Aditi Govitrikar is the Malika and the rest of the housemates haveSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 11 Nov 2009 | 2:09 am Gowariker's Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey takes offAshutosh Gowariker and PVR Pictures' Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey went on floors with a mahurat on a set in Goa. Lead actor Abhishek Bachchan along with producers Ajay Bijli, Sanjeev Bijli and Sunita Gowariker graced the occasion.Khelein Hum Jee JaanSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 11 Nov 2009 | 2:02 am Katrina rubbishes marriage claimsA marriage certificate in Indore (supposedly approved by the Municipal Corporation there) suggests that Katrina Kaif is married to local BJP MLA Ramesh Mendola. It also claims that the actress married him on December 2 last year. While the Indore MunicipalSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 11 Nov 2009 | 1:59 am SnippetsNovember 09, 2009If you thought Kareena Kapoor could only shoot intimate scene with beau Saif Ali Khan you are wrong. Kareena recently shot a sizzling and erotic dance sequence with Aamir Khan for the movie 3 Idiots. Sources close to theSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 11 Nov 2009 | 1:58 am Award at New York fest inspires Suniel ShettyBollywood producer-actor Suniel Shetty is elated at winning the best actor award at the South Asian International Film Festival (SAIFF) in New York for his performance in "Red Alert - The War Within" - a movie that deals with the Maoists - and says he is inspired to do better work.Source: Entertainment News | 11 Nov 2009 | 1:56 am Rihanna goes topless for Wait Your Turn coverLondon (ANI): Singer Rihanna has stripped topless for her new single Wait Your Turn. The cover jacket of Wait Your Turn shows the Umbrella singer topless with her left hand across her assets, while her right hand is raised to herSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 11 Nov 2009 | 1:54 am The two new ladies in Ranbir's life - Oneindia
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 11 Nov 2009 | 1:43 am Now...Paa dolls! - Times of India
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 11 Nov 2009 | 12:55 am 'Rajneeti' is my first role with grey shades: Ranbir - Expressindia.com
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 11 Nov 2009 | 12:45 am Simple Kapadia passes away! - Hindustan Times
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 11 Nov 2009 | 12:34 am Reliance BIG Pictures films at IFFI, Goa & MIAAC, New York
The prestigious 40th International Film Festival of India is all set to screen Reliance BIG Pictures' four major productions, Rituparno Ghosh's Bengali film SHOB CHARITRO KALPONIK, M.S. Sathyu's Kannada film IJJODU, Buddhadev Dasgupta's Bengali creation JANALA and Shaji Karun's Malayalam film KUTTY SRANK in Indian Panorama Section, starting from November 23 - December 3.
Also, Reliance BIG Pictures' strong run in the international festival circuit continues as Piyush Jha's SIKANDAR and Shyam Benegal's comedy WELL DONE ABBA in addition to JANALA and SHOB CHARITRO KALPONIK will be screened at 9th MIAAC Film Festival 2009, to be held between November 11 - 15.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 11 Nov 2009 | 12:21 am Ashutosh Gowarikar, PVR starts 'Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey'
Ashutosh Gowarikar and PVR Pictures' KHELEIN HUM JEE JAAN SEY went on floors with a mahurat on a set in Goa. Lead actor Abhishek Bachchan along with producers Ajay Bijli, Sanjeev Bijli and Sunita Gowariker graced the occasion.
KHELEIN HUM JEE JAAN SEY is a period thriller and is based on the book DO AND DIE by Manini Chatterjee, based on the Chittagong Uprising of 1930. The film is being shot in Goa and is looking at a release in the fourth quarter of 2010. Deepika Padukone will join the unit soon.
The film is presented by AGPPL and PVR Pictures and will be jointly produced by Ajay Bijli, Sanjeev Bijli and Sunita Gowariker. Other credits include lyrics by Javed Akhtar, costume designs by Neeta Lulla, art direction by Nitin Desai and cinematography by Kiiran Deohans.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 11 Nov 2009 | 12:18 am Minissha Lamba harassed by a stalker - Oneindia
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 11 Nov 2009 | 12:15 am Perfect Bride : An emotional roller coaster rideLux Perfect Bride is one hell of a reality show that features five kunwars and their mothers on a venture to hunt their 'perfect' bride. Who out of the ten contestants will finally bag the title?Source: merinews: Entertainment News Articles | 10 Nov 2009 | 11:35 pm 'The lovemaking scene in Kurbaan was necessary' - Rediff
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 10 Nov 2009 | 10:22 pm Shilpa-Raj get royal with their wedding card - Oneindia
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 10 Nov 2009 | 9:30 pm Award at New York fest inspires Suniel ShettyBollywood producer-actor Suniel Shetty is elated at winning the best actor award at the South Asian International Film Festival (SAIFF) in New York for his performance in 'Red Alert - The War Within' - a movie that deals with the Maoists - and says he is inspired to do better work.Source: IndiaeNews.com: Bollywood News | 10 Nov 2009 | 7:00 pm 5 reasons to watch Tum Mile - Times of India
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 10 Nov 2009 | 2:01 pm Want to watch or download Carrie Prejean video?This time again its Carrie Prejean's sextape that has got her in the limelight. Carrie Prejean sextape is the most searched in Google. The alleged sextape was shot her herself when she was a teenager.Source: merinews: Entertainment News Articles | 10 Nov 2009 | 1:52 pm Court seeks Karishma's husband's response on eviction noticeThe Delhi High Court today sought the response of the husband of Bollywood actress Karishma Kapoor in a case against him for not vacating a rented property here after expiry of the lease.Source: Entertainment News | 10 Nov 2009 | 12:52 pm Jr B turns MasterdaWondering what Abhishek Bachchan is doing in a dhoti? This is the actor’s look for his new film Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey.Source: | 10 Nov 2009 | 12:43 pm Carrie Prejean says steamy tape her biggest mistakeCarrie Prejean said that the steamy tape she made a few years ago for her ex boyfriend was the biggest mistake of her life.Source: merinews: Entertainment News Articles | 10 Nov 2009 | 11:55 am Ayaan, Amaan Ali Khan are back!They are not conventional classical musicians. For one, they look like guitar-yielding rockstar front men of some full-power rock band. Sarod exponents Ayaan and Amaan return after a hiatus.Source: | 10 Nov 2009 | 11:08 am Katrina Kaif bothered by constant media glareMUMBAI (Reuters) - She may have been Google’s most searched-for Indian celebrity and one of Bollywood’s top actors, but Katrina Kaif said the constant media glare on her personal life still rankled her.Source: Reuters: Bollywood News | 10 Nov 2009 | 10:55 am No alcohol at film fest venue, demands Goa women's panelThe Goa Women's Commission has warned the state government against sale of alcohol at the venue of the 40th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI).Source: Entertainment News | 10 Nov 2009 | 10:44 am Hungama partners with EMI for digital distribution of musicSouth Asia's largest digital entertainment company, Hungama Digital Media Pvt. Ltd, today announced a strategic alliance with EMI Music in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. The agreement covers the distribution across multiple digital platforms and formats, via internet and mobile. As EMI and Warner Music have a licensing partnership covering these countries, the deal includes Warner Music's digital content. The partnership will provide Hungama's consumers with a world-class collection of music from classic artists, contemporary global stars and up-and-coming talent. Commenting on the association, Stefan Blom, EMI Music's Executive Vice President Commercial Development for the region, said "We are very pleased to announce this new partnership with such and innovative and progressive company as Hungama. The digital music market in South Asia is still in the early stages of development, with new products and services being developed and network speeds increasing, offering great potential for our artists on Hungama's platforms." Adding to this, Neeraj Roy, Managing Director & CEO, Hungama Digital Media said, "We are very excited about this partnership. It will allow us to expand our repertoire and make internationally popular content more accessible to consumers in South Asia. With access to a rich catalogue of music content, consumers in the region will have more options to great digital entertainment." Hungama's audience will be offered full length music tracks, videos, mobile wallpapers, live concert footage, ringtones, caller ring back tones and other digital entertainment formats. Hungama will be deploying this content through its entire distribution network which includes all telecom operators in the region, partner sites such as BSNL.Hungama.com, and home-grown portals which include Hungama.com, India's first ever premium digital entertainment store.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 10 Nov 2009 | 10:29 am Hit or flop, Big B is Bollywood's goldmine
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 10 Nov 2009 | 9:55 am IFFI '09 to host Indian Animation with TASIThe Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG) and The Animation Society of India (TASI) have joined forces this year to bring film enthusiasts the best of Indian Animation at the 40th International Film Festival of India - Goa 2009 from 23rd November to 3rd December 2009. It is also the first time that IFFI-Goa has dedicated an entire section to animation. The festival program is divided into 4 categories: Film Programs, Non Film Programs, Film Bazaar and Short Film Center & Cultural Activities. The Short Film Centre in particular, is a platform which serves the interests of film producers, actors and cinematographers, sound recording artists, funding agencies, film festival programmers and enthusiasts at the event. TASI will be screening a "Retrospective on Indian Animation" - a compilation of nearly 50 films that have been produced in India; along with a host of special programs designed to give the audience at IFFI a complete and comprehensive understanding about the art of animation and where the Industry is headed in time to come. Team TASI has also chosen a panel of experts to speak on various different aspects of animation. Here is a tentative list of the sessions planned: Indian Animation Retrospective - Then and Now; Contemporary short films; animated feature films; The Art of Voicing; and a Pixillation workshop to be conducted at IFFI Goa 2009. The CEO, Entertainment Society of Goa Manoj Srivatava said, "Indian Animation has immense potential, commercial as well as artistic. Platforms like IFFI are the right spaces for demonstration of our talent, capability and expertise. With this in mind, the Entertainment Society of Goa chose to partner with TASI and present the best of Indian Animation during the 40th edition of the International Film Festival of India in Goa at the SHORT FILM CENTER." TASI Honorary Secretary Ranjit Singh said, "The Animation Society of India (TASI) is proud to partner with the Entertainment Society of Goa to present Indian Animation at this prestigious international platform. We are happy that the ESG recognizes the selfless work put in by TASI over the past 9 years to raise the bar of awareness and performance in the Indian animation industry. We look forward to a fruitful collaboration between our organizations starting with the 40th IFFI celebrations in Goa. We're sure this partnership will benefit the entire artistic community."Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 10 Nov 2009 | 9:21 am "My remuneration of Radio is Mumbai territory & 50% of all profits" - Himesh
Profit for all, loss for none
This time around, Himesh Reshammiya 's strategy is quite clear. Unlike Karzzzz where high price of the film resulted in a flop tag being associated with inside the opening weekend itself, Radio comes with one line vision of 'Profit for all and loss for none. "We don't want to get into a situation where just a single person earns", says Himesh who, along with the makers of Radio, has formulated a model where everyone in the value chain earns well, "In case of Karzzzz, only Bhushan Kumar earned but BIG Pictures lost. I want a different scenario for Radio. This is why the film has been sold at the kind of price which would be easy to recover and also result in profits to be earned."
Table profit for Radio
By means of satellite, music and video rights, the makers of Radio have already earned a neat table profit of Rs.1 crore. From this point on, it's the distributors who should be raking in moolah, hence going by the model of 'everyone earns from Radio'. "The film has been made at a budget of Rs. 6 crores, everything included, and that sum has already been recovered by the producer Ravi Agrawal. It's a happy situation for everyone since all territories have already been sold on M.G. which is remarkable since most other movies are sold on advance or commission basis", Himesh talks business here.
Himesh's own remuneration
Himesh hasn't charged a penny for Radio. Even though there were talks till a couple of years back that his fees for the triple role of an actor, singer and composer was Rs. 3 crores, Himesh changed his stand for Radio. Instead of hard cash, he has become a part of the business model for Radio. "My remuneration of Radio is the Mumbai territory and 50% of all the profits that are earned from the theatrical run. This way no one complains. If the film succeeds, which I am sure it will, I gain some good moolah. God forbid if it doesn't, then it's only me who has to worry. Rest everyone would have still made their money."
The Chupke Chupke v/s Sholay comparison
While Karzzzz was sold at more than Rs. 30 crores, Radio is being pegged at just a little more than Rs. 6 crores. Does this mean that for Himesh it is a step down when it comes to his market value? "How can one say that", reasons Himesh, "Chupke Chupke and Sholay were released in the same year and both starred Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra in the lead roles. Were they sold at the same price? It doesn't happen that way. Every film has its sensibilities and target audience. Some are made for mass commercial appeal while there are others that have a touch of class to them and are aimed at a select segment of audience."
Which segment does Radio belong to?
Himesh is candid enough to admit that from Karzzzz, he has learnt a lesson that not all audiences can be pleased through one film. "Look at the hit v/s flop ratio of the films that release every year. There are so many films being made that are seemingly targeted at universal audiences. How many of these succeed? May be three or four. The best way out is to identify the kind of audience that you are catering to and make your film for them. Radio is for the multiplex junta and that too for a niche audience that wishes to look at the complexities of relationships in today's times. This is why we are touching upon compatibility issues, f%^k buddies, emergence of Facebook, relationship status etc. etc.", explains Himesh.
Limited release
Unlike Karzzzz that was released on hundreds of prints with a dozen odd shows running every day, Radio would be seeing a meagre release which is just enough to get the houseful signs on. Himesh has a reference in Karan Johar's strategy as he talks about the release plans of Radio. "Look at the way Wake Up Sid has performed ever since it's release. With names like Karan Johar and Ranbir Kapoor, they could have gone all out and flooded the market with prints. But they didn't do that and basically focused on a select target audience. Result is that the film has managed to sustain so very well over the weeks and doing great on word of mouth. That's the kind of plan we have for Radio as well. We certainly don't want to get into an overdrive."
No debate
So why are the makers of Radio and Himesh making such declarations well in advance even though the film is about a month away? Simple. They want to steer clear of any debates that may happen after the release of the film when industry begins challenging its hit/flop status. Himesh starts explaining, "If you look at the way films have performed this year, even the biggest of them have come under scrutiny. Except for a Wanted or Love Aaj Kal, every film is being looked at with suspicion when they declare themselves as hits. Neither do I know whether these films worked or not nor am I in the know-how of their deals. But we see how we continue to debate around the ultimate box office outcome of an All The Best or a Blue or a London Dreams. That's unfair as I am sure their makers too must have devised a business model around the money recovery. It's just that in case of Radio, we are laying bare facts open for all to look at and comment. It is better that it happens well in advance before we start counting box office collections which would actually be an added bonus."Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 10 Nov 2009 | 9:11 am Live Chat: Madhur Bhandarkar November 12 at 1430 hrs IST
Amongst the important dates in the history of Bollywood, there is one date which might not be written in gold in the history books, but his films never cease to create history at the Box-Office. And the date is 26 August, the date when the master filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar was born.
Looking at the list of films that he has made so far, one is bound to call him as Madhur 'Reality' Bhandarkar, which only means that he has got reality as middle name. After having hit the jackpot with films like Chandni Bar, Page 3, Satta, Corporate etc..., Madhur is back with Jail, a film that has imprisoned the whole nation with its hardcore performances and a hard-hitting script. The good news is that Madhur Bhandarkar will be amongst us to have a heart-to-heart chat on Thursday, November 12, at 1430 hrs IST.
Do not forget to have your date with reality only on Bollywood Hungama's 'Celebrity Chat'.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 10 Nov 2009 | 9:09 am Ajay, Kajol together again?Rohit Shetty says he is planning to cast his good friend Ajay Devgn, with whom he teamed up in the recent hit All The Best, and his actress wife Kajol together in a film. Read on to know more.Source: | 10 Nov 2009 | 9:03 am 'I share a high level of comfort with Aftab'She refuses to comment on her relationship with Bollywood actor Aftab Shivdasani, but actress Aamna Sharif admits that she shared a high comfort level with him while working on their second film Aao Wish Karein.Source: | 10 Nov 2009 | 8:49 am Olay signs up Soha Ali Khan and Gul Panag
It seems like Bollywood stars are having a field day these days. After having signed up with Sushmita Sen, Katrina Kaif, Tisca Chopra, the beauty major Olay has now
signed up with not one but a whopping two beauties of Bollywood: Gul Panag and Soha Ali Khan.
Gul Panag, after having said 'Hello' to Bollywood, since the word go, seems to be now back with a bang. Same applies for even Soha, who is all set to capture the silver screen with her golden presence in her forthcoming film Tum Mile that has her starring opposite the 'Serial-Kisser' Emraan Hashmi.
With these two beauties on board, Olay definitely seems to be the flavour of the season!Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 10 Nov 2009 | 8:41 am Kambakkht Ishq's screenplay invited to be part of the Library of Academy of Motion Pictures, ...
Sajid Nadiadwala's Kambakkht Ishq, which earlier this year rocked the B.O. with a bumper opening, has now bagged yet another prestigious honour. The film, which recently won an award for 'Best Locations', has been invited by the Library of the Academy of Motion Pictures, Arts and Sciences to be a part of its permanent Core Collection.
The screenplay of the film will be part of the Library of Academy of Motion Pictures, Arts and Sciences and made accessible for research purposes only to students, filmmakers, writers, actors and other regular patrons of the Library.
It may be recalled that Kambakkht Ishq was even shot at the prestigious Kodak Theatre where the Academy awards are held each year. Now having bagged this honour, the makers of Kambakkht Ishq (namely producer Sajid Nadiadwala and director Sabbir Khan) would surely be thrilled to bits with this piece of good news.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 10 Nov 2009 | 8:25 am Shahid's role is similar to Aamir's
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 10 Nov 2009 | 7:12 am Shahid Kapoor turns Santa!Choreographer-turned-director Ahmad Khan says he can't thank his friend Shahid Kapoor enough for fulfilling a long-cherished dream of his children.Source: | 10 Nov 2009 | 6:57 am 15th Kolkata Film Festival kicks off todayThe 15th Kolkata Film Festival starts today, 10th November, 2009.Source: Entertainment News | 10 Nov 2009 | 6:19 am Amitabh is still Bollywood's goldmineA ghost, an eccentric theatre actor or a flamboyant genie, Amitabh Bachchan has done quite a few over-the-top roles and not delivered big hits in four years. But for filmmakers, the megastar is still a phenomenon they can't wait to sign on. Source: | 10 Nov 2009 | 6:16 am Katrina Kaif is married?
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 10 Nov 2009 | 5:56 am Lindsay Lohan suicidal, says assistant
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 10 Nov 2009 | 5:53 am Rajneeti's shoot plays havoc on Manoj BajpayeeShooting for Prakash Jha's Rajneeti in Bhopal took a toll on Manoj Bajpayee's weight as he couldn't help gorging on chicken biryani and mutton dishes every other day.Source: | 10 Nov 2009 | 5:46 am I am comfortable working with Aftab: Aamna Sharif
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 10 Nov 2009 | 5:33 am I'll make a film with Ajay, Kajol: Rohit ShettyRohit Shetty says he is planning to cast his good friend Ajay Devgn, with whom he teamed up in the recent hit "All The Best", and his actress wife Kajol together in a film.Source: Entertainment News | 10 Nov 2009 | 5:17 am Mallika to sizzle in Obama biopicBollywood hottie Mallika Sherwat known not only for her bold statements but also for her Hollywood dream projects, is all set to star in a film based on the US President Barack Obama.Source: | 10 Nov 2009 | 5:02 am Live Chat: Aftab Shivdasani on November 11 at 1500 hrs IST
He is Affable, he is Funny, he is Talented, he is Ambitious and he is Bindaas! If you are wondering whom are we talking about, then, look no further...instead pick up the initials of the words to get the name of the star who is an integral part of the constellation called 'Bollywood'! Friends, he is none other than Aftab Shivdasani, the same kid who endeared one and all with his innocence in the epic film Mr. India. This time round, our very own Aftab invites you all to an once-in-a-lifetime trip onto the fantasy world... a world that you have only dreamt about!
All this and much more happens in his much awaited film Aao Wish Karein, a film that will give the word 'magic' a whole new meaning altogether! And needless to say, where is 'magic', there is bound to be Bollywood Hungama. Friends, so be ready for a 'magical' Celebrity Chat with Aftab Shivdasani on Wednesday, November 11 at 1500 hrs IST.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 10 Nov 2009 | 4:07 am "It's a wrong perception that my films are delayed" - Raj Kumar Santoshi [Part 2]
Weekend collections of Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani are out and it is crystal clear that Raj Kumar Santoshi is all set to have the biggest ever money spinner of his two decade long career. Not just that, even Ranbir Kapoor is enjoying the biggest opening ever of his career with the movie continuing its record journey. In the concluding segment of this 2-part interview with Joginder Tuteja, a relieved Raj Kumar Santoshi reacts to the digs taken on him by other filmmakers, delay in completion of his films, failure of Family and Halla Bol and how he is quite sure that Ranbir and Katrina are sure shot superstars just round the corner.
Even though you are sticking by your ethics and passion and are one of the select senior film makers who are still around, doesn't it hurt that there are digs being taken on the pace at which you complete your films? At times it appears to be harmless fun but sometimes, it is also a little below the belt. Don't you feel like retaliating?
I am glad you asked this question. Though I won't wish to retaliate per se but I definitely to want state some bare facts on the records to bring a turnaround in perception of few who feel/believe/speculate/assume that I take time in completing my films. If we go down the memory lane, one of my biggest and most ambitious films till date, The Legend Of Bhagat Singh, took mere 120 days from the first day of the shoot till the release date. This included actual shooting, post production, marketing, promotion and release. Tell me how many big films like this have been completed in such speed. Moreover, my involvement with a project doesn't just end at the sets of the film. I know of so many out there who steer clear of a film once they are through the principal shooting. However, I am thoroughly involved in the background score, editing, mixing etc.
The Legend Of Bhagat Singh, took mere 120 days from the first day of the shoot till the release date
But isn't The Legend of Bhagat Singh an isolated example of a film being completed so fast?
I can give you a lot more examples. Khakee was completed in 8 months even though Aishwarya Rai had met with an accident during the shoot. Also, there were other superstars like Amitabh Bachchan, Akshay Kumar and Ajay Devgn as the part of the cast. Still, there were no delays. On the other hand, Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani, in spite of busy youngsters like Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif, was completed in 8 months flat. Sometimes there is a gap between making two films which gives people an impression that a movie is taking a lot of time to be completed. However, the actors with whom I have worked over the years know that I shoot fast and finish the films on time. It's unfortunate that there is such a wrong perception around my films getting delayed.
I am happy that other than great looks, Katrina also has an inherent quality of being a good and honest human being that reflects in her performance
Have you ever looked back on the box office failure of Family - Ties of Blood and Halla Bol?
Whenever I look back, I become surer that poor marketing killed these films. In today's times something like that is so important for your film to make it's presence amongst in the audience. People make choices based on what is made available to them. Neither Family nor Halla Bol reached out to audiences. Moreover, in case of Family, Amitabh Bachchan had fallen ill before it's release and hence there was a lot of uncertainty around the film's release. Moreover, no one was in the right frame of mind to talk about the film. What is ironical though is that till date I get compliments from people who watch it on satellite or DVDs. These films were far better than the rubbish which is churned out today.
Well, the story telling of your latest release was indeed comical. However, it must have required quite some thinking on your part to rope in someone like Katrina Kaif in a role like this, right? After all before New York, she was being billed as just Ms. Beautiful.
I know her for last 2.5 years and have closely followed her progress as an actor, star and a professional. I had been hearing stories about her sincerity, discipline, punctuality and hard work. I saw it all for myself when she was roped in for the film. She was quite enthusiastic about the subject even though it required her to do something that she has never attempted before. Not many actors can carry off a role like this with élan but she did that. I am glad that my judgement paid off. She was very convinced herself that she could crack it well. I am happy that other than great looks, she also has an inherent quality of being a good and honest human being that reflects in her performance.
Ranbir too has given an altogether different account of himself...
It was such a pleasant experience to be directing this young boy; He too hadn't done anything like this before. Years back, I had enjoyed so much working with Rishiji in Damini. I still believe that the industry hasn't given him his due. Now Ranbir has played a role so well which required him to come up with an all around performance where he was required to display a wide variety of emotions. He is a definite star on way to be a superstar.
Ranbir is a definite star on way to be a superstar
There has been a considerable gap between Ajab Prem Ki Ghajab Kahani and your last release Halla Bol [Jan 2008]. Will there be an equally large time span before your next film arrives?
That should not be the case (laughs). I was just waiting for the response to Ajab Prem Ki Ghajab Kahani. Now I can start putting together my next film in place which is pretty much in the pipeline.Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 10 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am "I would've done the love making scene even if Saif wasn't there in Kurbaan" - Kareena Kapoor
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She is known as 'Size Zero' of the Indian Film Industry. So we decided, let's just call her 'Half a Bagel'. She is slim, sleek and sexy. Kareena Kapoor is taking Bollywood by storm since a year, and taking the paparazzi by frenzy whenever she is spotted with boyfriend and actor Saif Ali Khan. Off screen, Kareena, popularly known as Bebo in Bollywood, exudes a smaller-than-life, self deprecating persona. She always looks hopeful about her future, whether it's family, films or Saif Ali Khan. She is unique. She has the sort of untouchable star quality about her. In person, she is quite remarkably beautiful and lean. So lean that she seems almost to be a trick of perspective. The directors she's worked with routinely comment on her flexibility. The actors comment on her dedication and passion for films and her boyfriend comments, ''She is very adaptable to the different worlds our directors create for her.'' Such is the respect this actress gets delivered. Since her new life with beau Saif has begun, and she is carefully selecting the right scripts coming her way, Kareena Kapoor has blossomed into the most talented and versatile actress of her generation. She is so real that she doesn't even hesitate to say, ''Why don't journalists ever ask Charlize Theron or Halle Berry, why they do a love making scene in a movie? Why is it always have to be us?'' when asked her about the intense love making scene with Saif Ali Khan in Kurbaan. Now that's what we respect about this bold Indian woman. But the lady doesn't stop there. ''When a viewer sees Kurbaan, they're not going to go back with just the kiss'', she adds. On her way to the Heathrow airport to catch her flight to Dubai, where both, 'Saifeena' (that's their new combined name) are busy promoting Kurbaan, Devansh Patel gets lucky to be talking to the Indian phenomenon at the right place at the right time - the phenomenal princess Kareena Kapoor. By the way, the time I spoke to her was half past midnight.
The promos of Kurbaan reminds us a lot of your elder sister Karisma in Fiza. How intense can you get as an actress?
Well, Kurbaan is an intense film, its cutting edge and gripping too. Kurbaan is a new wave of cinema that's coming along. All our characters are intense; it's not just only me. Yes, my role of Avantika is the most powerful. So, you'll be surprised with our strong cast when the film hits the theatres.
I hope our sweet London journos haven't been asking you the same cliched questions, have they?
You know what? Everybody has been asking me more or less the same questions (laughs). So I hope you ain't going to make this one cliche like your London colleagues.
So how complex is Avantika, the role you play, in the film?
Avantika is a simple girl. She maintains her integrity very well in the film but is being used as a pawn in a huge game being played around by the terrorists. We've tried to keep Avantika real and at the same time, commercial. The role isn't a documentary types because let's not forget, it's a Karan Johar film. Kurbaan is a movie with a
lot of repeat value.
Kurbaan is a new wave of cinema that's coming along
Films have a shelf life of three days now. Friday, Saturday and Sunday. It's a hit or a flop.
You'll be surprised that a lot of movies are declared a hit on a Friday itself. But sadly those movies are not really a hit. Today's all about perception and a lot about your PR. But some movies are going to do well even post Monday as well. Films like Love Aaj Kal, New York and Wake Up Sid have done well. The real test of films begins on the fourth day of their release that is a Monday. Unfortunately the media doesn't like to believe that. That's the test we all have to pass. Kurbaan falls under a category which has good music, good story, meaning, soul, good production house, good actors, etc. I'm sure and we hope it has a longer shelf life.
You think KJo is drifting away from his usual rom-coms? Would you expect a Kurbaan coming from a Dharma Production?
The whole idea is that when you are in a creative field, be it a producer, be it an actor, etc, we all have to experiment, we all have to discover and we all have to do different stuff. I don't think Karan Johar really wants to be a mediocre producer or a director. He has always pushed the envelope and he has always made great movies. If Karan
doesn't do it than who else will?
How did you react on Saif's quote stating that he sees a lot of Sharmila Tagore in you?
That's a great compliment from Saif. Sharmila Tagore was one of the only actresses in Indian cinema to strike a balance between doing parallel cinema and doing a commercial entertainer. She has done Mausam and an Evening in Paris. I'd like to believe that I can also do an Omkara and a Kambakkht Ishq. I have constantly been doing roles in which I don't get type cast and I'm sure that the directors and the filmmakers know that now.
Love making scene cannot get easier than this, can it? An off screen couple getting intimate on screen.
Actually, to be honest with you, I would've done Kurbaan even if Saif wasn't there in the film. I would've stuck to the script which was given to me. I'm sure he would've done the same. So of course, this love making scene is a bit over hyped because we are an off screen couple. But I know one thing. When a viewer sees Kurbaan, they're not going to go back with just the kiss. The kiss isn't important. What's important is our message of the film. What's important are the thrilling moments in our film, etc. Why don't journalists ever ask Charlize Theron or Halle Berry why they do a love making scene in a movie. Why is it always have to be us? Our love making scene is done with aesthetically in a very classy manner.
Sharmila Tagore was one of the only actresses in Indian cinema to strike a balance between doing parallel cinema and doing a commercial entertainer
Let me see if you can get three out of three here in this quick rapid fire.
Ok, let's play. I'm sure it'll be exciting
Saif Ali Khan's first film as an actor?
I think his first film was Parampara.
You got the first one. Now what was Saif's name in Omkara?
That's simple. Langda Tyagi
That's two on two. Here's the big one. Saif's first film with Akshay Kumar?
His first film with Akshay was Keemat
I'm sorry to say but you get 2 out of 3. His first film was Yeh Dillagi
Oh yes! Never mind. Better luck next time.
What is Kurbaan?
Kurbaan is a pain of intense emotions.Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 10 Nov 2009 | 3:15 am "My girlfriend cried throughout Jail" - Neil Nitin Mukesh
Neil Nitin Mukesh's love interest is no longer kept out of view. That the girl in question, Priyanka Bhatia, is very much part of the Mukesh parivar which became evident on the night of November 2 when at the Fame Adlabs at a private screening of Jail. Priyanka was prominently present alongside Neil's parents and brother Naman.
Neil's mother and girlfriend sobbed uncontrollably throughout.
"Priyanka and my mom were hysterical with grief. They weren't looking at just a character being put through a traumatic time. To them it was someone who they both love in pain in front of their eyes," said Neil.
Neil admits Priyanka is an integral part of his family. "My parents and her parents don't only know and like one another, we also visit each another's homes constantly. More than lovers we're friends first. There's a comfort level in our interaction that makes us very relaxed with one another. We don't have to hide anything. We meet openly and are very proud of one another. There's no pressure for marriage on either side. When it happens, it happens. The marital status on the passport would hardly alter anything between us."
Priyanka has done a course in fashion designing. Neil is open to the idea of Priyanka designing his clothes for his films. "I'd love that. But it should happen on its own. Neither Priyanka nor I want to pressurize anyone to use her skills. But if it happens, I'd be very happy to be dressed up by her."
Another happy happening is the fact that Neil's colleague Ranbir Kapoor's film Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani released on the same day as Neil's Jail.
Says Neil, "Ranbir and I are of course competitors. But there's no negative rivalry between us. Our respective fathers would kill us if we behaved like two brats fighting for the same roles. I'm proud that Ranbir's and my grandfather were very close friends. My father and Ranbir's father adore each other. Ranbir is like my younger brother."
So is Neil saying Ranbir is no competition?
"Of course he is!" rejoins Neil. "I'd want Ranbir's film to do as well as mine. Fortunately, Jail and Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani look like the North and South pole."
Last week, all of Neil's forthcoming directors saw Jail at Yash Raj Studios "David Dhawan. Abbas-Mustan, Kunal Kohli and Ken Ghosh saw the film. I think they liked what they saw. So I'm safe in their films."Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 10 Nov 2009 | 2:58 am
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