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Media goofs up on Malayalam film star Cochin Haneefa's deathTV channels created a flutter when they aired incorrect information about the death of popular Malayalam film star Cochin Haneefa.Source: Entertainment News | 2 Feb 2010 | 7:50 am I love Satyajit Ray films: Brian CoxScottish actor-director Brian Cox says he is a great fan of India's legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray and that "Pather Panchali" is his favourite film.Source: Entertainment News | 2 Feb 2010 | 7:39 am I want to see 'Rann': Bal Thackeray
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 2 Feb 2010 | 7:26 am Ash unsure about 'Laawaris' number in 'Houseful'Rumours were rife that Aishwarya Rai will dance to the tunes of hit number "Apni toh jaise taise", which was originally picturised on her father-in-law Amitabh Bachchan, in Sajid Khan's "Houseful".Source: Entertainment News | 2 Feb 2010 | 7:18 am "Striker is not a sports film" - Chandan Arora
His first directorial venture Main Madhuri Dixit Banna Chahti Hoon spoke about dreams and aspirations of small town people. His second film Main, Meri Patni Aur Woh dealt with the insecurities faced by an ordinary man married to an extraordinarily beautiful lady and now he is all set to present his latest venture Striker which deals with the journey of a carrom player
from the ghettos of Mumbai. The person we are referring to is talented director Chandan Arora whose film Striker starring South sensation Siddharth in the lead role is up for release. We caught up with Chandan for an exclusive interview where he revealed all about his latest labour of love.
Striker is your third film after Main Madhuri Dixit Banna Chahti Hoon and Main, Meri Patni Aur Woh. What are your expectations this time around?
The same expectations that any filmmaker would have when his film is ready for release... I want maximum people to watch my film and enjoy the cinematic experience that
it offers.
The title Striker gives an initial feeling that it's a sports based film... Is it true?
Striker is the story of a carrom player; however it's not a sports film. It's more like a biopic of a boy who happens to be a carrom player. The film is set in the ghettos of Mumbai during the 80's. That essentially forms the crux of the story.
How did you decide to cast Siddharth for the lead role considering he is not very active on the Bollywood scene?
I had seen Siddharth's first film Boys, a Tamil super-hit film directed by Shankar. I liked him a lot in that film and from then on I kept on following the kind of work he was doing be it in Tamil, Telugu or Hindi cinema. After he did Rang De Basanti, he was clear that he interested in doing some more Hindi films. Initially we were working on a completely different script which was more of a romantic film and during discussions of that film there were some references of Striker which came up that I shared with him. Both of us got excited about the idea and decided to do this film first. The whole project was constructed keeping Siddharth in mind.
I had seen Siddharth's first film Boys, a Tamil super-hit film directed by Shankar. I liked him a lot in that film
Since the film tells the story of a carrom player, is that your favorite sport and are you an avid carrom player?
No...not really though I have played carrom while growing up with family and friends. What is surprising is the fact that even though carrom as a sport is so common in the underbelly of the country it's not gained the popularity that it should have. I don't know why? It's a great indoor sport that the whole family could play and on any given day, you never know, every player has an equal chance of emerging triumphs on his / her day.
What special training did Siddharth undertake to get into the character of a carrom player?
Fortunately for us, Siddharth was not completely alien to playing carrom. He's played carrom while growing up with his family and friends like most of us. Whenever we were shooting the carrom sequences, we were shooting with actual carrom players and it was here that he had to make sure that he was on par with them in terms of getting the whole body language and mannerisms right. He worked really hard with a carrom coach that he had and used to keep practicing in between shots. The results are there for
all to see.
Even though carrom as a sport is so common in the underbelly of the country it's not gained the popularity that it should
have.
The film has two new female leads. Could u tell us a bit about them?
Yea... we have Nicolette Bird and Padmapriya. The story of Striker is the story of a boy right from when he is about 10 years old to when he is in his mid-thirties. Both the female leads have a significant part in the plot though their characters have limited screen time. Hence we decided on casting newcomers with good acting talent who can make an impact in the limited screen time. I came across few clips of Padmapriya on YouTube and Siddharth had also good things to say about her work down South and that is how we zeroed in on her. Nicolette, on the other hand, plays a very important role in depicting the first brush of romance that Siddharth's character feels. We needed a face which would effortlessly have that kind of beauty and innocence and still depict the kind of sweet romance and we felt Nicolette was best for that
part.
The first name that we came up for the villain's (Jaleel) character was that of Aditya Pancholi. I've always believed he is
a very powerful actor.
Striker also has veterans like Anupam Kher and Aditya Pancholi...how has it been working with them?
It was great. In fact, the first name that we came up with for the villain's (Jaleel) character was that of Aditya Pancholi. I've always believed he is a very powerful actor. At that time, however Aditya wasn't doing much work so were not too sure if he would agree to do the part. Moreover his character has also been shown in two different age-groups, one during his younger days and one his presd enough to give us time for a narration and hear us out and he got really excited to play the part. In fact when I first met him, he had lost a lot of weight and was looking really young which in fact helped him to play the younger part with ease. He has a great screen presence and really brought in a lot of warmth on the sets. Coming to Mr. Anupam Kher, his part in the film (of Inspector Farooq) is not long in terms of screen time but is very crucial to the screenplay of the film. So when we approached him for the role, we were thrilled that he agreed. He is one of the most sincere and honest actors of our industry. He is world famous and his presence in the film adds a lot of credibility to the project.
Where all have you shot the film?
We've shot it completely in Mumbai since the film is set in Mumbai. However since it's based in the eighties we had to show the skyline how it was during the eighties which s completely different from how it is now and for those sequences we travelled to the outskirts of Mumbai and shot in Kalyan. We also put up a huge set of a basti in Malvani and shot extensively there
The music of the film was released recently and a noticeable aspect was the presence of 6 different composers in the album. Whose idea was that?
The way we went about creating the music for this film has been quite different from the conventional way. When we started working on the project, both Siddharth and I were very clear on the kind of music that we wanted, considering it's an intense film. We don't have any characters lip-synching songs since it's a realistic film. We had a couple of songs recorded before we had started shooting but the balance songs we decided to work on after we had finished shooting and editing the sequences. We then put down a wish-list of different composers whom we wanted to have on board for the film. We were lucky that most of them agreed to come and watch the film and then devote time in composing a track each for the film. I am really fortunate to have names like Gulzar saab, Vishal Bhardwaj, Amit Trivedi, Swanand Kirkire, Yuva Shankar Raja and Blaaze on the album. It's a fantastic line-up of talented composers and they all enjoyed the process of composing music for the film. Two songs do not feature in the film but the rest of them are all there in the film at crucial junctures.
Siddharth has earlier sung in quite a few of his Telugu and Tamil films and is indeed a talented singer. So we thought it
was best that he only sing this song 'Bombay Bombay'.
Siddharth has even sung a song 'Bombay Bombay' for the film...Right?
Yes...since the film is set in the eighties, the song is called 'Bombay Bombay' and not 'Mumbai Mumbai' (smiles). I have been born and brought up in Mumbai and truly feel that this songs is a perfect tribute to a city in which the story of the film is based. The songs plays ode to the spirit of Mumbai. Siddharth has earlier sung in quite a few of his Telugu and Tamil films and is indeed a talented singer. So we thought it was best that he only sing this song.
Striker is releasing a week before the biggie My Name Is Khan. Do you think it will be able to stand its own against such a big film?
The release strategy has been completely decided by the distribution arm of Indian Films and Studio 18. All the trade, marketing and distribution decisions are taken by
them keeping their profit and loss situations in mind. My Name Is Khan is no doubt a huge film and it would be unfair to compare the two films.
Finally what is next on your agenda after Striker?
I have 3 -4 ideas in mind that I am currently working on. There are many interesting stories to be told and whichever one of them shapes up really well will be the one I'll embark on first.Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 2 Feb 2010 | 6:59 am Sena workers burn Aamir, SRK's effigies
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 2 Feb 2010 | 6:58 am Aamir Khan's father passes away
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 2 Feb 2010 | 6:44 am Filmmaker Tahir Hussain passes awayTahir Hussain, well-known filmmaker and Bollywood star Aamir Khan's father, died of a massive heart attack here today morning, sources close to the family said.Source: Entertainment News | 2 Feb 2010 | 6:36 am Bengali film official entry for Berlin Film fest
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 2 Feb 2010 | 6:05 am I want to see 'Rann', Bal Thackeray tells Big BShiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray has asked megastar Amitabh Bachchan to arrange for a screening of his latest film "Rann", Ram Gopal Varma's take on the media world.Source: Entertainment News | 2 Feb 2010 | 5:41 am TV actress Narayani Shastri to debut in Bollywood
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 2 Feb 2010 | 5:32 am Big B turns brand ambassador for Gujarat Amitabh Bachchan has finally made a new Gujarati connection. Yes! He is now the brand ambassador of the state of Gujarat. He has lent his voice and his face for the promotion and development of a state that prides itself in having one of the finest infrastructures and speedy development in almost all the sectors. This was the essential reason why Mr. Bachchan even suggested being associated with the state.
During a special screening of his film Paa that took place in Gujarat for some of the senior dignitaries, Big B was so impressed with Mr. Modi and Gujarat that he made an offer to do whatever he could to further the cause of tourism and development in the state. Taking the offer on a serious note, Mr. Modi sent a letter to Big B offering him the post of Gujarat's brand ambassador which he accepted in all humility. So, be ready to see the senior Bachchan promoting tourism in Gujarat.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 2 Feb 2010 | 5:27 am Karunanidhi congratulates Rahman
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 2 Feb 2010 | 5:08 am Next 'Bourne' movie without Matt Damon
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 2 Feb 2010 | 5:06 am Ranbir-Siddharth-Ahmed's friendship reignites on Anjaana Anjaani sets
Work is no work if you enjoy doing it...the quote goes. The sets of Anjaana Anjaani seem to be just one fun place to be in. Especially, when Ranbir teamed up with his old time buddies Ahmed Khan and Siddharth Anand. It's common knowledge that Siddharth and Ranbir's parents are close and both of them literally grew up together. Even Ahmed and Ranbir have bonded over the many projects they worked on together. For starters, Khan has always choreographed Ranbir's dances which made him look nothing less than a fiery rockstar. The only time he didn't was in Wake up Sid.
The good news is that these three have now come under one roof for one of the eagerly awaited films of the season Anjaana Anjaani. The lead actress Priyanka Chopra captured this special 'filmy' moment right on the sets of Anjaana Anjaani in the US.Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 2 Feb 2010 | 4:46 am Will Haneke and Audiard get the Oscar nod?India's interest in the Academy Awards this year is understandably not as keen as it was in 2002, when Lagaan was among the five shortlisted entries in the foreign language category. This time, of the nine films chosen in this section – to be filtered down to five and announced today – there is none from India.Source: | 2 Feb 2010 | 4:35 am I want to see Rann: Bal ThackerayShiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray has asked megastar Amitabh Bachchan to arrange for a screening of his latest film Rann, Ram Gopal Varma's take on the world of media. Big B in his recent blog post says...Source: | 2 Feb 2010 | 4:22 am Eyeqube's vfx adds glitz to VeerBollywood has long been ruled by the Khans as the leading men. And the leading men are now turning to scripting and directing films as well. Not so long ago, a certain Khan garnered rave reviews for his film Taare Zameen Par and now Sallu Bhai set the silver screen afire with his self-scripted film Veer... Produced by Eros Entertainment, Veer has some cool special effects done by Eyeqube studios of "Aladin" Fame. Charles Darby, the Creative Director at Eyeqube discusses some of the VFX scenes and sequences with Bollywood Hungama and we bring you an exclusive vfx case study on this flick. Information shared by Charles Darby, Image courtesy - Eros and Eyeqube Studios, Coordination - Muriel Pinto. Veer Eyeqube VFX Supervisiors: Sachin Bole & Balasundaram Sasikumar. For vfx making of the movie, click here On the ship Deck at London harbour
For this sequence only the upper deck of the ship was created and actors were placed and all of it was shot in chroma. The entire environment around it- that of London's River Thames is entirely made in CG. In fact even the captain's cabin and the crew member seen in the back ground are created in CG. "We had to even create the back of the ship as it is," says Darby.
Where the two warring sides clash in the ravines
This is a huge shot. It has been made to seem that it has been shot on a huge scale. But the camera work in Cg. "Doing this with a real camera would be a logistical nightmare. It would not be possible and increase the budgets by three folds," says Darby. Again the environment around is created in CG. Without big set ups these shots are really difficult to shoot really. "If you used real horses they would be eating away through your budget daily!" adds Darby.
A thorough survey of the area had to be done for this sequence taking in consideration every detail. Photography was used to create textures. A lot of modelling had to be done. "Of course we could make use of the photography angles but we did what we could," says Darby.
where the clan is awaiting at a scenic locale
Here there is crowd duplication done. The duplication done here is 2D duplication unlike that of the horses and the horsemen using the in-house software.
For vfx making of the movie, click here
Veer and his clan entering the castle:
This is all live action here, says Darby. The sweeping Ariel shot taken when the entire clan- the horsemen are entering the castle is all live action. But when you reverse it, the camera travels from above the castle entrance. This is all computer generated. It is all in CG. The entire architecture in the sequence, the horses and the horsemen are all in cg.
Only the initial horsemen entering the castle are live action whereas the entire mob following thereafter is done in cg. "This is where the audiences will be congratulating the DoP thinking that the entire shot is done through cinematography. But it is actually CG," adds Darby.
The war sequence:
"I really like this shot personally. This seems very real as the camera is really wobbly and it makes for a real tracking nightmare. But because the camera is all over the place, it feels like a real set up and not a digital set up. In reality there were about 300 horsemen and horses and they were duplicated to seem like thousands.
When Veer's clan is at the Castle to fight
This sequence was to be shot at Rajasthan itself but somehow it did not work out. Then the set was moved to film city. "It's turned out really good actually," says Darby. It is not what it seems as the entire environment; the castle and the surrounding areas were created in CG. Even the cannon's firing is created in CG.
But this sequence did not have Chroma because one doesn't always get to choose their set ups. At the beginning of the day you are not sure what angles are going to be available to you but then chroma might not help. In reality you do not have much time to break down each shot and discuss it. "Therefore, we had to make the best guesses for the track marks...the team worked extreamly hard with a terribly short deadline in post..i'm extreamly proud of them" says Darby.
For vfx making of the movie, click hereSource: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 2 Feb 2010 | 4:19 am Live Chat with Vidya Balan today at 1400 hrs IST
She comes on screen and sets it on fire, Vidya Balan is an enigma. With her every film, she proves it to one and all that she is simply undeniable. A director's baby, right from her first film, Parineeta, Vidya has had an unimaginable chemistry with her co stars, which she maintained in Lage Raho Munnabhai, Bhool Bhulaiyaa and took it up a notch with her most recent film Ishqiya. How does this beautiful actress with an unmatched élan do it? That's something only she can answer.
Bollywood Hungama gives you an opportunity to ask all those questions to Vidya Balan, only on our exclusive celebrity video chat today, February 2, at 1400 hrs IST. Be there!Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 2 Feb 2010 | 4:05 am Ishqiya elbows out Rann at box office
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 2 Feb 2010 | 3:57 am Top flops at Oscars spoof revealed!Big-budget Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen and Land of the Lost have been declared top of the flops as nominees for Hollywood's Oscars spoof - the Razzies. Here're the details.Source: | 2 Feb 2010 | 3:56 am Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol ring NASDAQ opening bellBollywood stars Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol have become the first Indian actors to ring the opening bell of the world's biggest stock exchange, NASDAQ, an honour usually reserved for CEOs of major corporations.Source: Entertainment News | 2 Feb 2010 | 3:54 am SRK stands by his IPL remarks
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 2 Feb 2010 | 3:39 am Batman and Robin voted worst movie of all timeGeorge Clooney's Batman and Robin has topped a magazine’s worst movie poll. It was slammed for its camp 'batsuits' and an 'overblown' script. Here's a list of the top ten bad movies...Source: | 2 Feb 2010 | 3:28 am "Karthik isn't a geek... he is just an introvert" - Farhan Akhtar
Farhan Akhtar refuses to divulge whether he has double role in Karthik Calling Karthik. "All I can tell you is that I play a lonely introverted character down on his luck, unsure and inarticulate. Everyone takes advantage of the guy I play."
Farhan is quick to point out he doesn't play a geek. "Karthik isn't a geek. Something happened in his childhood to make him the way he is. This guy is just an introvert."
All the films that Farhan has been seen in so far have been produced by the actor himself. "I've no issues working for any producer as long as the project and its backers are rock-solid. An actor's worst nightmare is if his project stalls midway. The thing is, whoever has come with an acting offer wanted me to produce his films. With Karthik Calling Karthik for the first time my company is co-producing a film with a company called Magic Bean. The director Vijay Lalvani came to me with the offer to act and co-produce Karthik..."
Farhan admits he was offered Rohan Sippy's film with Abhishek Bachchan. "I couldn't do it because the dates clashed with Zoya Akhtar's film. I love her script about three friends. The fact that I've done films about male bonding before (Dil Chahta Hai, Rock On) didn't deter me. No one stops to ask how many films about the man-woman relationship are made every year. Then why not more films about male friendship?"
Farhan's next production tentatively titled Crooked does not feature him in the cast. "I'm very happy just being the producer. I've written the dialogues. It's already interestingly cast and didn't need me. While promoting KCK, I'm also doing pre-production of the sequel to Don."Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 2 Feb 2010 | 3:26 am Anchoring is easier than acting: Abhishek
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 2 Feb 2010 | 3:14 am Why is Rahman's Grammy win Special? - GlamSham
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 2 Feb 2010 | 3:11 am Rahman nominated for another international awardMusic maestro and Oscar winner musician AR Rahman has been nominated for yet another award?excellence in musical scoring for 2009 by IFMCA. He has been nominated in best original score for a comedy film category for Couples Retreat.Source: merinews: Entertainment News Articles | 2 Feb 2010 | 2:56 am TV show Spartacus shoots raunchy foursomeLondon (ANI): Spartacus: Blood and Sand, dubbed the most explicit television show ever, has gone one step further in shocking senses after filming a raunchy foursome. The series, featuring graphic violence, strong sexual content, and major profanity, stars Rebus star JohnSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 2 Feb 2010 | 2:55 am 'Is A R Rahman our greatest music composer ever?'Saying that A R Rahman is the greatest music composer ever would be injustice to the other outstanding composers who have done remarkable work.Source: merinews: Entertainment News Articles | 2 Feb 2010 | 2:50 am Cheryl Cole’s popularity annoys Simon CowellLondon (ANI): Music mogul Simon Cowell has revealed that he finds it annoying that ‘X Factor’ co-judge Cheryl Cole is more popular than him. But even though Girls Aloud member Cole, 26, is ahead of him in popularity, Cowell, 50, isSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 2 Feb 2010 | 2:50 am Love stories to rain in My Name Is KhanShiva Sena's threaten to ban Shahrukh Khan's My name is Khan might have created confusion in the minds of audience. But it haven't stopped Karan Johar from doing promotional activities. Latest news about My Name Is Khan is ShahrukhSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 2 Feb 2010 | 2:50 am Jaya Bachchan’s Aahat finally set for releaseIt’s like the phrase, 'to return from the dead', got a whole new meaning. 36 years after it finished filming in 1974, Aahat – Ek Ajib Kahani starring Vinod Mehra, Jaya Bachchan and Amrish Puri is releasing this year. The filmSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 2 Feb 2010 | 2:50 am Aamir Khan's father passes awayBollywood actor Aamir Khan's father and a well- known filmmaker Tahir Hussain passed away due to a massive heart attack. He died at Aamir's residence in Bandra. He has two sons and two daughters.Hussain started off his career as a producerSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 2 Feb 2010 | 2:48 am Backstreet Boys, Richard Marx to perform in Delhi on Feb 20American boy band Backstreet Boys and legendary singer Richard Marx are set to perform here on Feb 20, as a part of the annual Rock 'n India mega music festival.Source: Entertainment News | 2 Feb 2010 | 2:46 am Julie Andrews not part of book series ‘Flanimals’London (ANI): British comedian Ricky Gervais has dismissed reports that actress/singer Julie Andrews is set to do voice over for the lead character of his children’s book series ‘Flanimals’. Gervais, 48, teamed up with Matt Selman, a writer for ‘The Simpsons’,Source: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 2 Feb 2010 | 2:43 am Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell bare all for LoveLondon (ANI): Kate Moss and seven other beauties have stripped off for the cover of Love magazine. Also, Naomi Campbell has bared it all for the ‘fashion icons special’ edition. Apart from the supermodel, Dutch hottie Lara Stone, who last monthSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 2 Feb 2010 | 2:42 am Russell Brand wants a 'Naked' weddingSydney (ANI): Russell Brand wants to marry girlfriend/singer Katy Perry naked. The comedian joked that he would even like the guests to come in the buff."We are going to do the wedding naked! All the families will be naked!” Sydney MorningSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 2 Feb 2010 | 2:39 am Kim Cattrall blames busy schedule for break-upLondon (ANI): ‘Sex and the City’ star Kim Cattrall has revealed that the reason for her break-up with chef Alan Wyse was her busy work schedule. Cattrall, 53, who had split from the Canadian cook last year after a five-year romance,Source: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 2 Feb 2010 | 2:37 am Madonna invests £937K in coconut water manufacturing firmLondon, (ANI): Queen of pop Madonna has invested 937,000 pounds in a coconut water manufacturing firm after she fell in love with the drink during her Sticky & Sweet world tour. Madonna, 51, along with her manager Guy Oseary, snapped upSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 2 Feb 2010 | 2:36 am Deepika Padukone sacrifices her long locks - Oneindia
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 2 Feb 2010 | 2:34 am Abhishek Bachchan: Friend Philosopher and Guide called Amitabh Bachchan! - Newspost Online
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 2 Feb 2010 | 2:31 am Anchoring is easier than acting: Abhishek BachchanJust two episodes after his debut TV show "National Bingo Night", Abhishek Bachchan has taken a fancy to anchoring and says it is more enjoyable than acting.Source: Entertainment News | 2 Feb 2010 | 2:29 am Aamir's father Tahir Hussain passes away - Rediff
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 2 Feb 2010 | 2:24 am Ishqiya trumps Rann at the box office - Rediff
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 2 Feb 2010 | 2:24 am SRK undeterred by Shiv Sena's threats - Hindustan Times
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 2 Feb 2010 | 1:59 am I love mridangam sound: Rolling Stones saxophonistTim Ries, the Rolling Stones saxophonist, who is in India on a five-city tour as part of a world music band, says Hindustani classical music has inspired him and he has been listening to Indian music for 30 years.Source: Entertainment News | 2 Feb 2010 | 1:54 am John can't get me for an hour every day: Bipasha - Times of India
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 2 Feb 2010 | 1:37 am SRK on 'Ra-1', 'Don 2' and Yash Chopra's next
Everyone's aware that Shah Rukh Khan's Red Chillies and Karan Johar's Dharma Productions are producing MY NAME IS KHAN jointly. But not many are aware that when Karan requested SRK to step in as producer-partner, the tie up happened within a minute or two.
"I told Karan that he didn't need me [as producer-partner]. He has an efficient production house, but he insisted. So I said okay, we shook hands and I stepped into the project as producer-partner," Shah Rukh says.
Post MY NAME IS KHAN, SRK moves over to his home-production RA-1, a superhero film helmed by Anubhav Sinha. Reportedly, SRK's preference to RA-1 has strained his relations with Farah Khan. "That's untrue. Why should I be upset with Farah? Farah and I go a long way. Farah, Sajid, Shirish are family and there's no tension whatsoever," SRK rubbishes the rumours.
Meanwhile, SRK will also begin filming DON 2 later this year. Reportedly, he has also given the go-ahead to Yash Raj's next venture, to be directed by Yash Chopra. "They haven't approached me yet, but if Yash-ji or Adi do offer me a project, I'd gladly walk on the set any day," he smiles.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 2 Feb 2010 | 12:07 am Karan Johar's next?
Call it a coincidence, but there is always a 3 or 4-year gap between each of Karan Johar's films. KUCH KUCH HOTA HAIN [1998], KABHI KHUSHI KABHIE GHAM [2001], KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA [2006] and now, his ambitious venture MY NAME IS KHAN opens this February, after almost four years since his last release hit the marquee.
"I can't churn out movies like a machine. But I do promise to start another film this year," Karan enlightens me. Reportedly, the supremely talented film-maker is keen to cast his favourite Shah Rukh Khan and WAKE UP SID actor Ranbir Kapoor in his next venture. True? "That's news to my ears. Right now, I am too much into MY NAME IS KHAN and can't think of anything else. The cast you mentioned is also untrue," he elucidates.
Karan also adds that he hasn't cast anyone in the AGNEEPATH remake yet. "A lot of people ask me why I am keen to remake AGNEEPATH. Let me explain. The film didn't work at the box-office when it opened almost two decades ago and my father, who was very vocal that AGNEEPATH was one of his finest films, always felt that the film never got its due. He would often prod me to remake AGNEEPATH some day, so here I am, fulfilling my father's wishes," Karan says.
The new AGNEEPATH, hence, will be a tribute to Karan's father.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 2 Feb 2010 | 12:03 am Amitabh to be brand ambassador for Gujarat - Times of India
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 1 Feb 2010 | 11:58 pm SWV to come out with a new album in 2010There is a good news for all fans who missed SWV songs playing on the radio. SWV (Sisters With Voices) is all set to release a fifth studio album this year, 2010. The group disbanded in 1999 to start solo projects but reunited in 2005.Source: merinews: Entertainment News Articles | 1 Feb 2010 | 11:47 pm Studio 18's Aman Gill resignsAman Gill joined Studio 18 in December 2006 and spearheaded Film Acquisitions for the organization along with establishing and nurturing relationships with key talent on behalf of the company. On a day-to-day basis he headed Domestic Film Distribution as well. During this time he acquired and distributed successful films such as JAB WE MET, WELCOME, SINGH IS KINNG, GOLMAAL RETURNS and GHAJINI. He was one of the key members whose contribution was instrumental in establishing Studio 18 as one of the leading Studios in the industry. He is currently exploring various options and is serving out his notice period with the company until March 31, 2010.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 1 Feb 2010 | 11:46 pm Kim Burrell at The BET awards 2010Eminent American gospel singer Kim Burrell, performed on stage and sang two of the timeless classic at the BET Awards, in honour of singing legend Whitney Houston.Source: merinews: Entertainment News Articles | 1 Feb 2010 | 11:33 pm Tamil Padam: Must watch movieLatest Tamil film Padam promos indicating that this movie going to be a spoof on earlier Tamil movies. Film Tamil Padam with new director and a relatively new hero meets more than the expections of the film makers.Source: merinews: Entertainment News Articles | 1 Feb 2010 | 10:07 pm Shiv Sena threatens to protest against Shah Rukh`s `MNIK`!Slamming Shah Rukh Khan for supporting the inclusion of Pakistani cricketers in the IPL, Shiv Sena on Sunday wrote to theatre owners here to boycott the screening of his upcoming flick `My Name Is Khan`.Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 1 Feb 2010 | 4:20 pm Shiv Sena activists protest against SRK at `Mannat`!Scores of Shiv Sena supporters staged a protest against Shah Rukh Khan outside his abode `Mannat.`Source: Zee News : Entertainment | 1 Feb 2010 | 4:20 pm Razzie nominations 2010: Awarding worst performersThe Razzie Awards choose worst performances in the year - including worst film, actor, actress, supporting actor, supporting actress, worst screen couple, worst direction and worst screenplay. They also choose the worst remake, sequel or rip-off.Source: merinews: Entertainment News Articles | 1 Feb 2010 | 3:36 pm Oscar Awards 2010: best possible of Oscar NominationsOscar Awards 2010 or 82nd Academy Awards 2010 nominations will be announced within less than a day time. Here the list of best possibilities of Oscar Nominations 2010.Source: merinews: Entertainment News Articles | 1 Feb 2010 | 1:08 pm NCW writes to I&B on reality show featuring Rahul Mahajan - The Hindu
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 1 Feb 2010 | 1:07 pm Beyonce walks away with six Grammys - The Hindu
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 1 Feb 2010 | 12:34 pm Live Chat: Deepika Padukone on Feb 2 at 1630 hrs IST
She is one the hottest actress in Bollywood , who made a grand debut opposite none other than superstar Shah Rukh Khan in Om Shanti Om. Since then there has been no looking for for this leggy lass.
Deepika will be seen next opposite Farhan Akhtar in romantic thriller Karthik Calling Karthik.
And now, big news for all of Deepika's fans. The actress will be live on exclusive celebrity video, tomo, Feb 2, at 1630 hrs IST. Don't miss this for anything!Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 1 Feb 2010 | 11:23 am Rahman is amazing, says friend Baz LuhrmannAustralian filmmaker Baz Luhrmann congratulated good friend A.Source: Entertainment News | 1 Feb 2010 | 11:19 am Sneak Peek: Abhishek's look in Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey
They say, in Bollywood, you can't keep a talented man hiding for long. But, Ashutosh Gowarikar is doing just that. After the debacle of his much-hyped film What's Your Raashee, the man on a mission, Ashutosh Gowarikar, is back again with his yet another magnum opus Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey. It's one film that has made many in the industry sit up and take notice, for reasons more than one.
Firstly, of course, is because it's a film that comes from the stable of the dream director Ashutosh Gowarikar. Secondly, because of its dream starcast, that compromises of Abhishek Bachchan and the gorgeous Deepika Padukone.
The third reason happens to be the subject matter of the film, which is based on the historic Chittagong uprising. Bollywood Hungama happened to get its hands on the first look of Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey. From the looks of it, one must admit that Abhishek is looking damn cool in the Indian attire (which is a break away from his casual look on screen). Considering Gowarikar's expertise, when it comes to period films there are no prizes for guessing that this one is going to be one of the most anticipated films of this year.
Till then, enjoy the first look of Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey.Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 1 Feb 2010 | 9:59 am Grammy Awards 2010 Winners list - check it outLast night the 52nd Annual Grammy Awards took place with Taylor Swift and Beyonce bagging multiple trophies, breaking a few records.Taylor Swift won awards out of eight nominations.Mentioned here is the Grammy Awards Winners List 2010.Source: merinews: Entertainment News Articles | 1 Feb 2010 | 8:29 am Tamizh Padam: Entertaining spoof on Tamil moviesTamizh Padam is the 'first-ever' full-length spoof on Tamil movies. The promos of the film gave enough indication about the content. In fact, it was one of the most-awaited movies and enthusiastic movie-goers were eager to watch it. |
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If one has the smile that appeals to the whole 'Universe' and the other has that 'special something' that enhances smiles the world over, then, don't you feel that the coming together of the two is just inevitable?
Well, we are talking about the former 'Miss Universe' Lara Dutta, who, as per the latest buzz, has been signed up by the oral care major Colgate Palmolive as their brand ambassador. According to Bollywood Hungama's confirmed sources, "Lara's name was playing on the minds of the Colgate officials since quite sometime now. And there couldn't have been a better time to sign on Lara as their brand ambassador". True-Blue girl that Lara always is, this association is something that is bound to sparkle its way to (smiling) glory!
Lara Dutta however was unavailable for comment.
He is as 'reclusive' as 'reclusive' can get. He is the 'chashmo-chirag' of the Deol family, who can safely be titled as one of the hottest stars in Bollywood.
We are indeed referring to the suave Abhay Deol, who is on the cover of the February issue of the 'andpersand' magazine. Those in the know are aware of the fact that this dude is quite media shy. To which, Abhay admits, "I am media shy. I didn't depend on the media to promote me. In that sense, I don't owe them or anyone anything. I arrived upon success solely by myself." Talking about films, he says, "I like films where I can relate to the characters- where I find them to be all flesh and flesh and blood, tangible and real." For those who felt that being a Deol had everything carved out for him and that Bollywood was a cakewalk for this man, he answers, "The Deol tag meant that people expected me to be in a certain way, to live up to a certain standard. So, it kind of worked for me and against me, at the same time." And this one is for those who 'question' about him not being 'carved' out for the quintessential Bolly hero, "I know I am not cut out to play a filmi hero. I don't look like a hero." Some confession that, Abhay!
All this and much more, in the latest edition of 'andpersand'.
Sanjay Dutt has opened a new chapter in his life. From playing a gangster in a dozen odd films to advocating 'gandhigiri' in Lage Raho Munnabhai, he would now be marching to a different beat with Freedom, a film which would take audience through the journey of India from the 70s to the current times. The film would be directed by Vivek Agnihotri and has already been given a nod of approval by Sanjay Dutt as well as Madhavan. Hunt for the remainder of the principal cast is on.
Confirms Vivek Agnihotri, the man behind Dhan Dhana Dhan Goal (John Abraham, Arshad Warsi, Bipasha Basu) and Chocolate (Anil Kapoor, Irrfan Khan, Tanushree Dutta), "Yes, Freedom is happening for sure. The principal cast is more or less finalised and talks with Sanjay Dutt and Madhavan are progressing quite well as they are in the final stages. Sanjay is out of town and I would be meeting him soon after his return to take a closure on the formalities. I am also keen on signing Mohan Lal for the film and have approached him as well. It would be great if he consents because the film will certainly befit his standing as an actor who only does meaningful cinema."
Looking at the subject of Freedom, it does hint of being meaningful cinema with a commercial appeal to it. Describing the film as a political thriller that gives a blow by blow account of modern day India during last three decades, Vivek gets emotional by calling Freedom as a dream come true, "This is a story that I have been waiting to tell for years now. Though Chocolate and Dhan Dhana Dhan Goal happened in the interim, I was always keen to bring Freedom for Indian viewers. The beauty of the subject is that it stays on to be as topical as ever as it starts in the 70s and takes us to the current times. Even if I had to make Freedom in 2020, it will still retain its charm because there would always be newer episodes to tell from the decade gone by."
Apparently, Vivek completely distanced himself from the outside world while writing the film. "I worked with Prasoon Joshi on the script for close to 6 months. After that I went to Himalayas for a couple of months and have just returned after locking the final draft. It has been over two years since Dhan Dhan Dhan Goal and I am raring to go. However, if you ask me whether I am tired then I would say 'No'. Writing Freedom has been such an enriching experience and even if I am required to spend a couple of more years to add more to it, I won't mind."
For Sanjay Dutt, it would be yet another saga other than his under production Lamhaa (directed by Rahul Dholakia) where he would be a part of a topical tale. Though in 2009 he saw success coming his way via a comic route (All The Best), 2010 could well open a new chapter in his life with Freedom following next. In the current decade, most of the films where he has been shown on the right side of the law (Shootout At Lokhandwala, Dus, Kurukshetra, Mission Kashmir) have been successful at the box office. Are we looking at him as a law keeper once again in Freedom?
"It would be too early to divulge his role though I can assure that it pretty much justifies his heavy weight presence", assures Vivek, "He would be present from start to finish of the film and would remain a part of the narrative through all the decades."
She came, she shot and she sneaked out of Mumbai on Friday night on a flight to New York, traumatized by the experience of making a film on the life of a sex worker.
Lucy Liu came and shot her 30-minute film entitled Meena for ten days in Mumbai and tried to sneak out of Mumbai on Friday night as quietly as possible.
Says a source, "Lucy shot her film right until Friday evening then rushed to the airport to escape all media attention. She had to return to New York for another film. Then she had to edit her Mumbai film entitled Meena and submit it by mid-2010."
According to an actor in the film, "Lucy is painfully shy of the press. Plus this was her first film as a director, and it was on a very sensitive subject."
Lucy's film was on the subject of prostitution. According to a source, "The film inspired by Meena's tale as told in the book 'Half The Sky' is about a real-life sex worker Meena Haseena who at the age of 10, was abducted from her village in Bihar and brought to Mumbai. Meena grew up in a brothel. After escaping from the brothel, Meena made it her life's mission to help as many of her sex-worker colleagues to escape from a life of prostitution as possible."
The irony that moved Lucy Liu was that Meena couldn't manage to rescue her own daughter from a life of prostitution.
Says an actor from the film, "It took Meena 14 years to rescue her own daughter from prostitution. As Lucy shot this sensitive film, she'd often burst into quiet sobs in corner. The real story is so searing and brutal we all were traumatized. There was a 13-year old girl playing Meena's daughter. And the ambience was especially sensitive for her. You can't blame Lucy for wanting to finish shooting and leave quietly."
Tannishtha Chatterjee who plays Meena Haseena met the real Haseena several times.
Says the source, "Meena was a consultant on the project throughout. Tannishtha and Lucy met Meena several times and Meena was on the sets supervising the proceedings."
For the sequences showing Meena daughter Naina's rescue attempts, Tannishtha had to perform several dangerous stunts, climbing up walls jumping down buildings, running and slipping as she was chased by goons."
Says Tannishtha, "All I can say is, I'm battered and bruised both emotionally and physically after doing the film. Working with Lucy Liu and that too on a project of very high realism, just shattered me."
After the Oscars and the Padma Bhushan, it's Grammy time for A R Rahman. On Sunday night, his music for Slumdog Millionaire won two Grammy awards, setting Rahman's global score even higher in 2010 than it was last year.
Reacting to the double Grammy whammy, Rahman said, "I never even dreamt about winning all these awards. I once again want to thank the Almighty, my spiritual Sufi teachers Ameen Peerullah Malik Sahib, Danny Boyle and the whole Slumdog creative team."
After the Grammy, Rahman also had a special word of thanks for his mentor Mani Ratnam and his mentors in Mumbai, Shekhar Kapur and Subhash Ghai and mentor in the West, Andrew Lloyd Webber.
Back home, Rahman is happy to have received the Padma Bhushan. But unhappy about the fact that a lot of the deserving artistes remain unrecognized by the government.
"There're so many deserving candidates for National Awards, still unsung. On the other hand, I believe people with dubious records get recognized. That isn't fair. Personally speaking I'm very happy to get the Padma Bhushan. Ever since the announcement my phone hasn't stopped ringing. I think I've received more congratulations for the Padma than for the Oscars."
Rahman says he's prouder of the Padma Bhushan than the Oscar. "It definitely means more when you're recognized by your own people and country. I definitely value this award more than the Oscar or Grammy," said Rahman before flying out to Los Angeles for the Grammys. "My award comes in a category that won't be televised. So it won't be like Slumdog Millionaire where people back home could watch me."
Much has been said about the two Padma winners Rahman and sound designer Resul Pookutty's disappointing follow-up collaboration in Blue after Slumdog Millionaire.
But Rahman stands by Blue. "The script was a bummer. But grant the director Anthony D'Souza for the fact that he tried something different. I enjoyed doing Blue."
Our resident Mozart is amused by premature reports in the press that his song 'Na Na' from his first Hollywood soundtrack has been nominated for and Oscar.
Says Rahman, "'Na Na' is short listed. It's one of 63 songs in the race. Not nominated yet. It's an English song."