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Kites to hit theatres on May 21
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 10 Feb 2010 | 8:42 am Listen to decade's best romantic songs this Valentines' DayNo plans for Valentine's Day? Well then chill out at home and create a perfect atmosphere by listening to some of the best romantic songs of the deacade like "Mere Khayalon ki Mallika" and "Suraj hua madham".Source: Entertainment News | 10 Feb 2010 | 8:30 am Lohan denies being beaten by Samantha Ronson
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 10 Feb 2010 | 8:03 am 'My Name Is Khan' advance booking steady in capitalAdvance bookings for "My Name Is Khan" may have been halted in Mumbai following violent protests by the Shiv Sena, but the cash registers are ringing in the capital for the Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol starrer.Source: Entertainment News | 10 Feb 2010 | 7:58 am Shaukat wants film version of 'Kaifi and I'Well-known theatre actor Shaukat Kaifi Azmi would like her book "Kaifi and I" turned into a film and says Abhishek Bachchan and Sonam Kapoor should essay the main roles.Source: Entertainment News | 10 Feb 2010 | 7:23 am Mausam's leading lady has been finalised: Shahid
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 10 Feb 2010 | 6:54 am Hrithik starrer 'Kites' to hit screen on May 21Filmmaker Rakesh Roshan's eagerly awaited romantic saga "Kites", which stars Hrithik Roshan and Mexican model Barbara Mori, will be released on May 21.Source: Entertainment News | 10 Feb 2010 | 6:38 am Meera challenges marriage certificate in court
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 10 Feb 2010 | 5:47 am My Name is Khan in Nepal
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 10 Feb 2010 | 5:16 am Want to watch 'My Name is Khan' in peace? Come to NepalEven as India's ultra-right party, the Shiv Sena, went on a rampage in Indian film capital Mumbai, attacking the cinema halls offering advance booking for the upcoming Shah Rukh Khan starrer "My Name Is Khan", the Nepal distributor of the film said he fears no such trouble in the Himalayan republic.Source: Entertainment News | 10 Feb 2010 | 5:05 am Pretty Woman tops favourite V-day movies listPretty Woman has landed the top spot in a list of favourite Valentine's Day movies. Picked up by over 3,500 men and women in the UK, the film pipped other flicks like Four Weddings And A Funeral, Sleepless In Seattle and Notting Hill. Source: | 10 Feb 2010 | 4:46 am Mumbai theatres shut booking of MNIK
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 10 Feb 2010 | 4:28 am Mumbai theatres attacked; warned not to screen MNIK
They say that Promises are meant to be broken, a statement that holds immense water in the field of politics. And it is this 'promise' by the leading political party Shiv Sena that gave assurance to the makers of the much anticipated film My Name Is Khan, starring SRK, Kajol and others. The said party had assured the filmmakers that they will let the film run on screens without any hassles from their side.
However, the party workers yesterday attacked three theatres in Mumbai (Shreyas Theatre-Ghatkopar, Mehul Talkies-Mulund, and Metro Big Cinemas-Dhobi Talao), that will be screening the Karan Johar directed MNIK.
Bollywood Hungama has also got the oven-fresh news that Cinemax Cinemas have stopped advance bookings for the film, directed by Karan Johar which releases on Friday.
Leaves of all Mumbai policemen have been cancelled in order to ensure the smooth proceedings of the shows. The security cover at the single screen theatres as well as the multiplexes have been more than doubled, while MNIK's lead star Shah Rukh Khan's security has been increased.
Even though there was stone pelting at the said theatres, the situation in Metro Big Cinemas was reported to be the worst as party workers went onto vandalize and tear one of the screens. An official with Metro Cinema, requesting anonymity, told Bollywood Hungama, "The 'modus operandi' adopted by the party workers was really something. They entered the theatre on the pretext of watching a film. Within a few minutes, there was some stone-throwing outside the theatre. When we went to control that, the workers in the theatre started their act of tearing the screen apart. The damages are too huge to be even spoken about."
A certain Mr. Prakash Shah (name changed on request) from Mehul Talkies, who was present at the time of the incident, told us that at around 12.45 pm, a mob of about 14 -15 people entered through the main door and started damaging the theatre property. They started off by breaking the glass door, windows, and then attacked the canteen. If that wasn't enough, they even entered the cinema hall where a Marathi film Shikshanacha Aaicha Gho was being screened and threatened the present audience with dire consequences if they came to watch MNIK. The overall damages are an estimated Rs. 1 lakh plus." He further added, "What was more shocking was the fact that nobody from the said mob was carrying the party flag! And the whole incident lasted for almost 15 minutes".
The situation was slightly different at Shreyas Theatre, Ghatkopar. When we spoke to one of the theatre staff there, he said, "I am just not going to reveal my name to you as I fear losing my job, if any of the party workers gets to know that it was me who spoke about the incident." After repeated assurances from our end, he revealed, "Yesterday, at around 9 am, about 50 policemen arrived at the theatre stating they were here for 'bandobast'. When we asked them what was the need for the 'bandobast', they said that they were anticipating some trouble. They also enquired if we had got any threatening calls from any political party to stop the screening of the forthcoming film MNIK. And since we had not received any calls from anyone, we replied in the negative. The policemen then went on with their duty of providing security to the theatre. Then, at around 12 noon, some 12-15 men from Shiv Sena armed with their party flags started shouting anti-SRK slogans. The policemen stationed outside immediately flung into action and brought the situation under control. However, four party workers managed to sneak inside the theatre and told the management to not screen MNIK."
There were groups of the party workers who were also seen protesting and shouting slogans in the areas of Kanjurmarg, Bandra, Khar and other parts of the city. A senior official from the police department told us, "There were around 13 party workers whom we arrested from Mulund, and around 23 detained in Ghatkopar and Kanjurmarg in connection with the said protests."
The damages also got extended upto Maratha Mandir, New Empire and also Minerva. The situation was slightly upheaval here SRK's face in MNIK poster was blackened, stating that this was just sampler of what to expect once when the film gets released.
Readers my also recall that yesterday afternoon MNIK's director Karan Johar had visited the Police Commissioner D. Sivanandhan, who had assured full co-operation and security. News also had it that cine-goers who will have to show their identity cards before they can watch MNIK. There will be policeman in civil clothes who will be inside the theatres in order to prevent the miscreants resorting to any kind of trouble.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 10 Feb 2010 | 4:27 am Dockyards became dens for Teen PattiThe film revolves around a mathematician, played by megastar Amitabh Bachchan, trying to write a thesis on probability by relating it to the Indian card game of Teen Patti.Source: | 10 Feb 2010 | 3:53 am Karan Johar battles perceptions surrounding MNIK
Bollywood has moved on, better films are coming in; audiences' expectations have soared higher while filmmakers (the ones who are willing to change with the times) have matured as well. The ones who were only making a particular kind of cinema have started experimenting with diverse subjects. Quite a few actors too have realised that change is the name of the game and being routine is passé. Commercial cinema has started seeing a new definition for itself while the success of 3 Idiots has proved that sky is the limit if the film carries a great entertainment value even if there is this deep rooted message hidden somewhere deeper down.
This is exactly what one looks forward to from My Name Is Khan as well where Karan Johar, Shah Rukh, Kajol and Co. have aspired to tell a story which is new and fresh, boasts of a certain responsibility quotient to it and still has been designed as a universal entertainer which would appeal to a global audience, a market that it promises to explore in weeks to come. No wonder, the man behind it all, Karan Johar, chooses to call My Name Is Khan as a love story at heart which comes with good enough entertainment value in spite of an issue being addressed at the gut level.
MNIK a film about terrorism? Wrong perception
"There is this entire perception which is making the rounds that My Name Is Khan is a serious film about a serious issue with terrorism as it's back drop. The fact is, this is an entirely wrong perception", Karan sets the record straight once for and all. If he is really tired of defending his yet to be released dozen times a day, he is not quite making an attempt to hide it. The reason behind his tiring state is understandable. After all the film is barely a couple of days away from the release and the wrong perception may just be sounding a little too threatening, especially so when MNIK has quite a lot going in it's favour at the moment.
"Yes, there is an issue which is being addressed but at the end of the day this film is an emotional love story. It is about a man (Rizwan Khan, played by Shah Rukh Khan) who embarks on a mission for love. The story is about what prompts him to get going on this mission and where does he eventually go. But there is nothing about terrorism in MNIK; you don't see any terrorist in the film."
This immediately sets MNIK apart from Karan Johar's last production Kurbaan (directed by Rensil D'Souza) which had terrorism as it's driving force with it's lead protagonist (Saif Ali Khan) playing the role of a Pakistani terrorist. Though some rumour mongers had a field day initiating idle conversations around the similarities between the two films, Karan Johar instead chose to shrug it all away.
The name is Khan. Rizwan Khan.
"The film is about Rizwan who doesn't know that in this personal mission of his, he is making such a huge difference for the rest of the world. The power of any initiative lies in doing something with all the heart and compassion without being marred by any ill thoughts or corrupted outlook. Rizwan is one such individual who does so much but without an understanding that his act would have such wider impact. He is so genuine and true and this is why he does everything with so much of heart and compassion. There are very few people who feel pure love and act as per that. This is why the story is possible when seen from Rizwan's point of view because his mind is completely honest while his heart is truly uncluttered and pure", Karan goes on to describe the element of love which are so prevalent when it comes to Rizwan Khan.
One wonders where does all of this leave Kajol? While Shah Rukh Khan seems to be enjoying an author backed role here, does Kajol get her moments of glory in the film as well? After all, the journey of MNIK is being touted to be that of a man whose wife leaves him behind for certain reasons.
"Again, one more wrong perception", sighs Karan, "Who says that Mandira (the character played by Kajol in the film) leaves Rizwan? Though I certainly don't wish to reveal anything around the storyline, let me set the record straight that it is Rizwan who is forced to leave Mandira because she says something to him which drives him to take such a drastic step. Beyond this, I don't wish to comment on anything else. Why don't you watch the film and get answers to the all perceptions that are being fed to you?"
Shah Rukh and Kajol - 'Janam Janam Ka Saath'?
One wonders though how audience would be reacting to this rather different chemistry between Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol who are returning on screen more than 8 years after Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham? After all, together they have worked in Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Karan Arjun and Baazigar - all of which have been mega hits that continue to find huge patronage amongst audience, courtesy their satellite re-runs. Since in each of these films, Shah Rukh and Kajol are shown to be sharing the vows of 'janam janam ka saath' with promise of togetherness being a single most stand out factor, won't audience be shocked with some diverse character portrayals that they have in the film?
Karan hardly pauses for a moment before answering this. "Let's admit it, everyone is required to evolve and grow over a period of time. I have grown, audience has shown over a period of time that how evolved they have become and our actors too have taken a huge leap further", Karan does a quick reality check here.
One wonders though that when a film has Shah Rukh as a central protagonist with the promos also giving an indication that it revolves primarily around his character, how does Kajol make her presence felt and justify her inclusion? Assures Karan, "Kajol has a very strong role in My Name Is Khan and nowhere would you feel that she has been left behind. She is a big part of the journey that Khan takes. After all at its heart, the film is a love story of Rizwan and Mandira."Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 10 Feb 2010 | 3:40 am INOX Leisure Ltd. acquires 43.28% stake in Fame India Ltd.The Board of Directors of INOX Leisure Ltd. (INOX), promoted by Gujarat Fluorochemicals Ltd. (GFL), today announced that it has acquired 43.28% stake in the Shroff family promoted Fame India Ltd. (Fame), which owns the chain of Fame Multiplexes. The acquisition creates one of India's largest multiplex networks with a combined strength of 55 multiplexes, 204 screens, and a total seating capacity of 57,891 seats. Fame also has subsidiaries such as Big Picture Hospitality Services - its food business JV, Headstrong Films - its film production JV and Shringar Films, its film distribution business. In a block deal executed through the BSE today, INOX bought 43.28% stake owned by the promoter family of Fame, for an all-cash consideration of Rs. 66.48 crores. The transaction is entirely funded by INOX's promoter company, GFL as a shareholder loan. This acquisition shall be followed by an open offer to acquire a further 20% stake in Fame, for cash, as per SEBI regulations. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Deepak Asher, Director - INOX Group of Companies said, "It has been our stated goal, when we launched our first multiplex around 8 years back, to be a significant player in the Indian multiplex space and redefine the movie going experience in India. This philosophy, of being a market leader, runs across all our businesses. Today, we are pleased to announce to our stakeholders, that we have translated this vision into reality - we have one of India's largest network of multiplex screens and have truly raised the bar in providing a world class cinema experience to our patrons." Mr. Shravan Shroff - Managing Director, Fame India Ltd. said, "I have always believed that a consolidated play would have a strategic advantage in the business and that led us to consider this association with INOX. Our decision was driven by our belief in INOX's professional management and strong shareholder focus, which we believe would translate into a value add for all Fame stakeholders. We are proud of having been associated in creating India's largest multiplex network, which we believe will offer an unparallel reach to film producers and consumers. INOX had previously acquired Calcutta Cine Pvt. Ltd. (CCPL) a Bengal Ambuja company. The acquisition, which kick started the consolidation phase in the multiplex industry gave INOX access to an additional 9 multiplexes in West Bengal and Assam. INOX currently has 30 operational properties, with 109 screens and a seating capacity of 31401 in 21 cities across India. Fame has 25 operational multiplexes with 95 screens and a seating capacity of 26487 in 12 cities.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 10 Feb 2010 | 3:32 am Vijay talks about Karthik Calling Karthik - PlanetRadiocity
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 10 Feb 2010 | 3:22 am Keep IPL games out of multiplexes - Daily News & Analysis
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 10 Feb 2010 | 3:04 am "I wish I got married to Angelina Jolie; she is a perfect bride" - Vatsal Sheth
The word 'cute' used to pop up five years ago if you asked any girl to describe Vatsal Sheth. Today, he refuses to comment on that because he is too handsome to be cute. His jaw line is more defined, his masculinity is better than before and his confidence is brimming. But it was his film Heroes that put him in the league of gentlemen. Did we forget his six pack abs? The fact is Vatsal has reached that point, both professionally and personally, where 'escape' is necessary. 'Escape' here means 'Marriage'. Or does it? UK's Harrow Observer columnist and Bollywood Hungama's London correspondent Devansh Patel questions the actor on marriages being scary, marketing taking over story telling, the My Name Is Khan controversy, his commercial success, his beautiful co-star Tabu and the woman he wants to escape (get married) with - Angelina Jolie. Toh Baat Pakki samjhe?
Tell me, how scary can marriages get?
Fortunately, I'm not married, so I can't tell you (laughs). Seriously, I don't think that marriages are scary. I think it's how you look at it. You can say that the cup is half full or half empty. I am an optimist and have a very positive attitude towards life. Institution of marriage is something that I respect.
Success is very unpredictable.
Marketing has taken over the story telling in today's day and age...
I've always believed that one should do their job with honesty and give in their hundred percent. When my producer tells me that we need to promote our film in press conference, we have to listen to him. That's our job. We get paid to do that. So we do it with honesty. Now it's up to them what they are doing and how they are promoting their films. Publicity and marketing in today's day and age has taken over big time...but it hasn't affected the story telling. It'll always remain the strongest ingredient in filmmaking.
What about My Name Is Khan controversy?
I think it's quite unfortunate whatever has happened to the film, Shah Rukh, Kajol and Karan Johar before the release of their film. I don't think it's right in saying that whatever controversies took place before the release of the film was a marketing gimmick. As an Indian, you have the freedom of speech to express whatever and however you want to. If some people have objection to it, you don't take up violence and try and stop the release. One should resort to non-violence. Such incidents don't affect SRK alone but the entire film industry.
How hungry are you in terms of your commercial success?
See, I have done big films. Tarzan was with Ajay Devgn, Heroes was with Sunny Deol and Salman Khan. You will never know the formula for success. If it works for you, it works. Paranormal Activity broke all records in the US but didn't do well here. The Hangover did amazingly well in India and not in the overseas. That's success for you - very unpredictable.
Actors have in the past wished to work with Nargis & Madhubala. Then there was the desire to work with Sridevi and Smita Patil. Then came Madhuri Dixit & Karisma Kapoor. Today, not many get an opportunity to work with Tabu. You lucky?
Yes I am. Tabu is one of the finest actresses we have in our industry. The fact about Tabu is that she isn't seen much in Hindi cinema. So we don't see her in newspapers and read much about her. I didn't know her as much as I did know Salman Khan and Preity Zinta before I acted in Heroes. But she made us feel so comfortable. It was great fun working with Tabu. We used to play games and crack jokes. As an actress she never used to give more than one take. She is supremely talented.
Tabu never required more than one take
What do you think is the USP of Toh Baat Pakki?
USP of Toh Baat Pakki is its lovely story. It's very sweet and more like a Hrishikesh Mukherjee kind of a film. Its fun and a family entertainer. Plus, it's Tabu coming back after a sabbatical and Sharman Joshi right after the success of 3 Idiots.
Any of your friends or family members have ever been put into a bizarre situation like in the film?
At the end of the day, this is a film. I don't know in real life if such things do exist. But if you've already announced your marriage with someone then why would you announce it the second time with someone else? It's strange but I've never heard of such things happen to anyone whom I've known in real life. If I go through my own, I'll let you know (laughs). Yes, a lot of people might relate to their own real life incidents, who knows!
Your perfect bride?
I was very happy when I read the news about Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt getting split (laughs). I'm sad for Brad but very happy for Angelina. So there is a point one chance for me here. The only thing I want from a girl is honesty because I am going to give her back what she gives me (laughs).Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 10 Feb 2010 | 2:59 am Barrymore to remake Charlie's Angels for small screen
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 10 Feb 2010 | 2:59 am SnippetsFeburary 08, 2010Bollywood star Shahrukh Khan might breathe a sigh of relief after Shiv Sena supremo Bal Thackeray stated that Sena activists would not disrupt the screening of his My Name Is Khan. Writing an editorial of the party mouthpiece Saamna...FeburarySource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 10 Feb 2010 | 2:57 am Bradley Cooper suffers a tanning disaster on the red carpet
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 10 Feb 2010 | 2:56 am Rourke hails Megan Fox as the best young actress
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 10 Feb 2010 | 2:54 am Dannii Minogue wins over British tabloidsLondon, (ANI): The Press Complaints Commission (PCC) has upheld Dannii Minogue's complaints against two British tabloids over invasion of privacy.Minogue, 38, had complained that the Daily Mirror and Daily Record reported she was pregnant before her 12-week scan, which can establishSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 10 Feb 2010 | 2:50 am Scared by Sena, Mumbai cinema stops booking for SRK flick - Hindustan Times
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 10 Feb 2010 | 2:48 am Butler gifts Aniston a holiday in Mexico
Source: NDTV Entertainment News | 10 Feb 2010 | 2:46 am Portia de Rossi to pen memoirsLondon (ANI): Ellen DeGeneres' wife Portia de Rossi is ready to open up about her private life in a tell-all book, which will include her struggles with her sexuality and her battle with an eating disorder.The Aussie actress, born Amanda LeeSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 10 Feb 2010 | 2:43 am Tom Cruise returning in Mission Impossible 4Washington (ANI): Tom Cruise is set to reprise his role as Ethan Hunt in the action packed Mission: Impossible movie franchise. Cruise, 47, last appeared in Mission: Impossible III after which he was fired by Paramount studio head Sumner Redstone, reportsSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 10 Feb 2010 | 2:42 am Avatar creates history in UKLondon, (ANI): James Cameron's sci-fi epic Avatar has become the highest grossing film in U.K. box office history. The Oscar-nominated blockbuster raked in 4.3 million pounds in its eighth week of release (01-07 Feb10), pushing it over the 72-million-pound mark sinceSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 10 Feb 2010 | 2:41 am Katrina Kaif bedridden again! - Apun Ka Choice
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 10 Feb 2010 | 2:33 am Freida Pinto sizzles on ElleShe came, she saw, she made others see her and then... she conquered and how! Well, the 'she' in question is none other than Freida Pinto, the girl who made every Indian proud courtesy her million-dollar performance in the Oscar winningSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 10 Feb 2010 | 2:31 am Shreya Saran, Reemma Sen in photo scandalAnother photo scandal has hit Kollywood hard. This time, it's Shreya Saran and Reemma Sen. The photos of these actresses at a private party has become a hot item amongst their fans down south.Shreya and Reemma were photographed partying wild andSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 10 Feb 2010 | 2:31 am John Mayer fears TwitterWashington (ANI): Rock musician John Mayer has revealed that he fears his obsession with Twitter.com cost him his relationship with actress Jennifer Aniston. Mayer, 32, also revealed that Aniston, 40, found his love of blogging, social networking and modern technologySource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 10 Feb 2010 | 2:12 am Dharmendra-Sunny-Deol to shoot in Varanasi in April for Yamla Pagla Deewana
In Samir Karnik's Yamla Pagla Deewana, Dharmendra and Bobby Deol play a father-son con-men duo in Varanasi. Sunny plays an upright man married to a Canadian living in Canada who gets to know after two decades that he has a father and brother in Varanasi. The film is about Sunny's journey into his past and into a culture that he had left behind.
Karnik will shoot in Varanasi in April.
The interesting part of the film is the bum-chum relationship between father Dharmendra and son Bobby, when in real life Bobby is intimidated by his father. Laughs Karnik, "Not so any longer. Thanks to the preparation for my film, both Bobby and Sunny have loosened up with their Dad."
While Bobby is paired with television actress Kulraj Randhawa, the Canadian leading lady for Sunny is yet to be finalized. The film's shooting starts on Feb 15.
"And we release Yamala Pagla Deewana on December 24, Aamir Khan's slot. This year he won't have any release in the last week of December. So we've decided to release our film in that slot," announces Samir Karnik.
Incidentally, Karnik's lucky mascot, little Dwij Yadav who features in all of the director's works so far, won't be part of Yamla Pagla Deewana.
"Let him grow up off camera now. He's my insurance for the future, just like Rakesh Roshan has Hrithik," says the director emotionally.
The film's title is obviously inspired by the chartbuster 'Main Jat Yamala Pagla Deewana' from Dharmendra's 1975 blockbuster Pratiggya.
Karnik intends to record a remix version of the Mohd Rafi hit. The director introduces a new composing duo Nouman Javed and Rahul Seth, one of whom happens to be from Pakistan.
Says Karnik, "I heard Nouman's music on the internet and asked him to send me his songs on the MP3 format. Then I took another new composer Rahul Seth to Dubai and we recorded the songs in a Nouman's land (Dubai)."
While doing a re-mix of the old hit may be considered a stroke of clever marketing, bringing the father Deol and his two sons together hardly qualifies as a novel strategy.
Says Karnik, "I know Dharamji, Sunny and Bobby have been brought together earlier in Apne. But that was a very emotional drama. Yamala Pagla Deewana is an out- and- out comedy."Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 10 Feb 2010 | 2:11 am Rahul Lohani does cameo in BidaaiSoon the serial ‘Sapna Babul Ka...Bidaai’ will rope in a mystery man who will enter the show to add masala to the current track. If sources are to be believed, “Rahul Lohani will be essaying a cameo role in Rajan Shahi’sSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 10 Feb 2010 | 2:11 am Felton, Greene team up for new ghostly movieLondon (ANI): Harry Potter actor Tom Felton and Twilight's Ashley Greene will reportedly come together to star in a new ghostly movie. The two stars of Hollywood's most successful franchises will purportedly team up for upcoming thriller The Apparition, reports theSource: Oneindia.in - Entertainment | 10 Feb 2010 | 2:08 am Abandoned dockyards, mills became gambling dens: 'Teen Patti' designerFinding locations that could resemble gambling dens, bombarding them with dirt and grime, painting gruesome graffiti.Source: Entertainment News | 10 Feb 2010 | 1:50 am Twilight and Harry Potter stars to act togetherTwilight star Ashley Greene and British actor Tom Felton of the Harry Potter fame are set to come together in a new horror movie. Greene, who plays vampire Alice Cullen in the Twilight saga, will star opposite Felton in The Apparition for Joel Silver’s Dark Castle genre label, reported Variety online.Source: | 10 Feb 2010 | 1:28 am Here is a tip to woo Vidya Balan - Oneindia
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 10 Feb 2010 | 12:55 am Bollywood's Amitabh Bachchan takes up 'vogging' - BBC News
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 10 Feb 2010 | 12:54 am Saif furious with the media - Times of India
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 10 Feb 2010 | 12:50 am Why is Vipul Shah guarding look of Action Replay? - Hindustan Times
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 9 Feb 2010 | 9:38 pm Federline ready to marry againPop star Britney Spears' ex-husband Kevin Federline is ready to get married again and says that he wants to be "happy" again. He is currently dating volleyball star Victoria Prince.Source: | 9 Feb 2010 | 4:19 pm Thilakan protests, Malayalam film body toughens stanceMalayalam thespian Thilakan has launched a protest against film organisations for denying him an opportunity to act in the new film "Christian Brothers".Source: Entertainment News | 9 Feb 2010 | 2:30 pm Amnesty rejected our offer for engagement, says Vedanta - Economic Times
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 9 Feb 2010 | 1:48 pm Why is Vipul Shah guarding look of 'Action Replay'?Director Vipul Shah has a secret.Source: Entertainment News | 9 Feb 2010 | 11:46 am Kolkata gears up for Fashion Week - Hindustan Times
Source: Entertainment - Google News | 9 Feb 2010 | 11:43 am Akshay Kumar to perform 'Parkour' in new Thums Up adAction star Akshay Kumar will be seen performing the death-defying sport Parkour in his upcoming Thums up commercial.Source: Entertainment News | 9 Feb 2010 | 11:36 am Why is Vipul Shah guarding look of Action Replay?Vipul Shah says, Akshay's designer Shabina Khan, Aishwarya's designer Manish Malhotra have worked really, really hard to give Action Replay a unique look. If that look is leaked out, they would lose its biggest USP.Source: | 9 Feb 2010 | 10:45 am Katrina speaks in BhojpuriLeggy lass Katrina Kaif usually has a difficult time speaking in Hindi, what would happen if she tries her hand at Bhojpuri? Read on to find out what came to pass in Patna.Source: | 9 Feb 2010 | 9:44 am Vishnuvardhan's 200th film set to release on Feb 12Legendary Kannada actor Vishnuvardhan's 200th film "Aaptha Rakshaka" is scheduled to hit theatres Feb 12 on the occasion of Maha Shivaratri festival.Source: Entertainment News | 9 Feb 2010 | 9:22 am Duff named best actress at British film awardsActress Anne-Marie Duff received the best actress honour for her role as John Lennon's mother in Nowhere Boy at the Evening Standard British Film Awards.Source: | 9 Feb 2010 | 9:14 am Trashing SlumdogVeteran theatre and film personality, Girish Karnad, has called Slumdog Millionaire the worst film he has ever seen.Source: | 9 Feb 2010 | 9:01 am Freida Pinto oozes out Valentine oomph on Elle cover
She came, she saw, she made others see her and then... she conquered and how! Well, the 'she' in question is none other than Freida Pinto, the girl who made every Indian proud courtesy her million-dollar performance in the Oscar winning film Slumdog Millionaire.
Well, despite the fact that the whole world is waiting with bated breath for her confession regarding her 'status' (single or otherwise), that has not stopped this PYT from inspiring others to love, love and love. And what better time it could be than the season of Love... when Love is in the air. Yes, you guessed it right. She is indeed the Valentine's Brand Ambassador... on the cover of the latest edition of Elle. Full marks to the photog for capturing this beauty like never before! In this issue, Freida talks everything from dime to a dozen, which includes brands, films, her life etc. Talking about brands, this gorgeous lady says, "Chanel has always been an effortless brand- their simple, clean cuts will have you look super fashionable. Karl (Lagerfeld) has been great. If I ever need something, he will make it happen." And about her personal life she opines in her own words that, "I realized that I'd gone straight from the craziness of Slumdog into my films, so, this is my time to relax."
All this and mush, mush more...in the latest edition of Elle. Buy it as every day is not a Valentines Day does not fall! What say Freida!Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 9 Feb 2010 | 8:39 am Down melody laneTune in to one of India’s oldest musical extravaganzas this weekSource: | 9 Feb 2010 | 7:32 am "Audiences will bet during intermission to guess the killer" - Apoorva Lakhia
Throbbing may well be the perfect word to describe Apoorva Lakhia's frenetic world. He breathes cinema like we breathe air, and the only way to understand him is to understand his cinema. So to say that Apoorva changed the face of cinema with Ek Ajnabee and Shootout At Lokhandwala would be a tremendous understatement. What's more is the fact that he thinks that the media hates him or his films...who knows? But it's the truth that he makes more realistically inspired films. He loves reading books; he wants to make the remake of Gran Tarino with Mr. Amitabh Bachchan and assures us that he goes bananas when it comes to the budget of his films because he is an expensive director. All that adds up to making a hurricane of energy and a breaker of levees called Apoorva Lakhia. A man who is attracted to a world where morality doesn't exist, where it is impossible to sin. UK's Harrow Observer columnist and Bollywood Hungama's London correspondent met the man on a mission, and a minute into our conversation, Lakhia was flying. His hands are moving as excitedly as he is speaking. One second his fingers meet as if in prayer, the next he is open-armed and embracing the world. He is conducting the conversation as he might, well, direct a movie. And then there are his eyes, which have their own power, framed by two black eyebrows set behind his rimmed glasses. Even in a blank living room you feel his force. Go ahead...feel this one!
Is Apoorva Lakhia a recluse?
I wouldn't say that Apoorva Lakhia is a recluse. But I'll also say that Apoorva Lakhia isn't Shah Rukh Khan or Aamir Khan. So even if I give forty interviews, I don't think more than five will be published. We all have a certain standing in Bollywood. As far as publicising this film, it's not the same as publicising the film that's been directed by me. The media connections are such that nothing is done for free these days. There is a strategy that we are going to go all out ten days before the release.
Apoorva Lakhia isn't Shah Rukh Khan or Aamir Khan. So even if I give forty interviews, I don't think more than five will be published
What is the reason for you to produce a film like Hide & Seek?
It is really because of Shawn Arranha. I had no intention of ever producing a film. I don't know if I'll do it again. He has been with me for ten years now. Even when I was an assistant, he used to be my assistant. Then when I turned director, he still was my chief assistant director. I've used him and abused him (laughs). I like promoting new talents and it was the right time for me to launch Shawn as I didn't want him to assist no more.
So how did the locked shopping mall idea came about?
The way the story came about was very interesting. We were in this mall in Johannesburg in South Africa. I and my friends had gone for a recce of my film and we went to watch the 11.15 pm show at the biggest mall in South Africa. So after the film finished, I went into the wash room and was locked in. It was the spookiest feeling because not a single person was there in the mall when we were locked in. There was no music too. But I and my friends were still joking that if we were to be locked up inside this mall for a year, we'd still survive because there were all the basic necessities inside the mall. Suresh Nair, Rajiv Batra and I gifted Shawn this script as writers and Hide & Seek was born.
Is Shawn ready to venture out from your shadows?
Yes, absolutely. I just hope that as soon as the film releases, people see his worth and sign him for ten films because there is nothing more great and satisfying than one of your own success, be it yours or anybody else's. We haven't even signed a contract that he has to work with me for the next three films.
What is more favourable - release a small budget film and make profit or release a big budget film and get the opening?
Firstly, I'd never produce a film that I'm directing. I am an expensive director and I'd go bananas. Secondly, it's a big risk even in this day and age to make a film without stars. I am realising it now, and by stars I mean big stars. Even if your budget is 30 crores, you can sell your film for 40 crores before the film is even made. Everything else after that becomes easier. Abhishek Bachchan can make a film and he will get publicity from Omega, Lux, etc. Same with SRK and Aamir. With the star cast I have, the step for publicity increases. More budget is required. When that rises, you have a question mark. You need to get people into the cinema in spite of having a good script. The word of mouth is important. The lifeline of today's films is one week and then the next week you see a huge film toppling yours.
I'd never produce a film that I'm directing. I am an expensive director and I'd go bananas
Is our industry going through its worst phase?
I won't say that because we are progressing at a very slow pace. We are going through the worst financially, yes. There are too many films coming out too soon. There are so many other things happening now that you don't release films during IPL and elections. So the backlog is huge. We have no option but to fight amongst ourselves. The alternate cinema which is now coming out has taken our industry ahead of what it was two years ago.
And aren't the ridiculous costs of film stars making it even more difficult financially?
To some extent, yes. It's a catch twenty two situation. Besides Amitabh Bachchan, who has got a life span as a star which is as long as him? Female actors' life is short. We don't have Meryl Streep's and Judi Dench's. If someone is giving you money, you won't say no. You have a time in your life when you're getting paid for talent and people think that you're worth that amount. I don't think that has anything to do with bad financial phase of our industry.
Do you agree with the line - Hide & Seek isn't a film...it's a game, and the audiences should be playing it?
Yes, it is a very apt line. The audiences are going to be loving the challenge of playing Hide & Seek. What's interesting is the fact that the audiences will be having bets during intermission on who the killer is going to be. A film like this is going to have many answers to one question, and that too is a game.
What's your next directorial venture?
I'm in talks with Shree Ashtavinayak, with whom I'm doing this film called Mumbai Taxi Service. We've almost got the star cast confirmed in the form of Anil Kapoor, Suniel Shetty, Sanjay Dutt. We are waiting for Amitabh Bachchan to get back and are in look out of a young new actor. That's a realistic film like Shootout At Lokhandwala.
What influences you to make cinema?
I get influenced by books, world cinema, get saddened by the daily events which happen in India, and if that charges me to make a film, I make it. If I could make a film on 26/11, I'd love to because that is something which people should know about in detail. When 26/11 happened, there were text messages flowing that people like Apoorva Lakhia, Sanjay Gupta and Ram Gopal Varma should be banned from making realistic cinema. I am surprised to know that if foreign channels can come here and make a film or a documentary on what happened on 26/11, why are we Indians stopped?
I get influenced by books, world cinema, get saddened by the daily events which happen in India, and if that charges me to make a film, I make it
Name one film which has really influenced you and that you'd want to remake.
The one that has influenced me is The God Father 1 and 2. I can keep on watching again and again. Everything falls into place.
Describe your star cast in one word or a sentence please:
Purab Kohli - Brilliant actor
Mrinalini Sharma - Hard trier
Arjan Bajwa - Naturally talented
Amruta Patki - Hungry
Ayaz Khan - Mad
Sameer Kocchar - Extremely confidentSource: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 9 Feb 2010 | 7:11 am Oscars: A tale of two actressesThere are only two real races in this year’s Oscars. That among the Best Pictures and that among the Best Actresses. Like the Best Picture, the Best Actress Oscar is probably confined to two contenders, Meryl Streep and Sandra Bullock.Source: | 9 Feb 2010 | 6:46 am Regional rivalry tests security in MumbaiMUMBAI (Reuters) - A verbal battle between Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan and radical Hindu group Shiv Sena has sparked worries the stature of Mumbai, India's financial hub, is being undermined by politics that are anti-migrant and polarising.Source: Reuters: Bollywood News | 9 Feb 2010 | 5:17 am Akshay continues to do dangerous stunts, this time for Action Replayy
The day after Akshay landed in Mumbai after his back treatment he was doing some of the most dangerous stunts affordable to a star. Before he left for his back treatment, Akshay Kumar was unsure if he could ever return to normal health-related activities that he liked, let alone action sequences. In fact, Vipul Shah's action-laden climax for Action Replayy which was to be shot after Akshay's return, was seriously jeopardized. But after the hydro- therapy that he underwent in Germany last week, Akshay Kumar returned to work, more confident than ever before, ready and eager to shoot heart-stopping stunts for Action Replayy. When Vipul offered to change the climax, Akshay laughed and told him to stick to the original plan.
Not only was Akshay seen hanging from cables doing stunts and flying through the air, he even cajoled his co-star Kirron Kher to try the aerial stunts. Speaking from Manori where director Vipul Shah shot Akshay's action sequences with action direct Allan Amin immediately after the actor's return from Germany, the director confided, "It's true we were very unsure about what shape Akshay's back would be in once he returned from his hydro treatment. The climax of Action Replayy required very complex and strenuous stunts on wire-cables. I offered to change the climax and do away with the cable stunts. After all, those are tough even for actors with normal healthy backs. Akshay told me to wait until his return before taking a final call."
The actor's recovery post his treatment has been far quicker and complete than imagined.
Vipul just can't stop gawking at the actor's recovery level. "Why just me? The entire cast including Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Om Puri, Rajpal Yadav and others just can't believe Akshay's capacity to bounce back on his feet. Here we were thinking of doing away the cable stunts and somehow managing the climactic action without the planned aerial shots. But Akshay has been wired and suspended midair for almost a week now. Cable stunts are really tough on the back. But Akshay was super-confident on his return."
Akshay was so kicked by the idea of starting afresh on his newly-repaired back that he even encouraged Kirron Kher to join him on the cables in Manori.
Says Vipul, "A shot required her to join Akshay in the air. Kirronji was at first hesitant. But we ensured her it was fully safe to be suspended with cables. Akshay is so charged and enthusiastic, he will soon have the whole cast and crew on cables. We are shooting funny action sequences. But hanging midair from thousands of feet is as dangerous whether done for fun or otherwise."
Akshay who sounded discernibly pained before his restorative trip to Germany is raring to go. "I'm back on my feet and doing action scenes for Vipul's film. The treatment worked fully and I have completely recovered."
Apparently, Akshay has recommended the hydro-treatment to Sunny Deol who suffers a chronic back problem and has undergone to major surgeries to repair his back. For Akshay, surgery was never an option, even when his back had given way a decade back and he was laid up for six months.Source: BollywoodHungama.com News | 9 Feb 2010 | 3:49 am "I'm scared of receiving a call from myself" - Deepika Padukone
I recall the day when Deepika Padukone walked the red carpet for the first time. It was ice cold outside the Empire Leicester Square. Om Shanti Om had its world premiere in London. Padukone was ready to paint the town red, and she did when she arrived in her beautiful red dress. Uff...that ada of hers I tell you! Anyway...to the current day. She is growing taller with every film of hers. Commercially speaking, you can't even get through her now-a-days. She is keeping so busy that not even the paparazzi can trace her. I mean, we got to give it to the lady...she is fast. Wearing that nine-acre smile all day long and still to not look fake is quite something. So we decided to call her the original babe of Bollywood as she embodies all the elements of originality. UK's Harrow Observer columnist and Bollywood Hungama's London correspondent had a quick word or two with the tinsel town's tallest beauty Deepika Padukone on her first thriller, new energies, the Kajra Re step, Farhan Akhtar and why after all the success, she still feels unsatisfied.
How spooky can a thriller like Karthik Calling Karthik get?
Well, the film is a thriller and it can get very spooky, all the more so, because I've never been a part of any thriller so far.
What sort of energy and newness do new comers like you and Farhan bring to the screen?
We both have complimented each other and have learnt from each other so much during the making of Karthik Calling Karthik. We both draw something from each others performances. And that was the same with all my co-stars, whether it was Shah Rukh or Ranbir.
No call from Deepika Padukone will be answered
Was your Kajra Re step and the many others you've done impromptu?
Absolutely yes. The steps that I do in the song 'Uff Teri Ada' were completely impromptu. My director Vijay Lalwani said that it does look like a fun song and doesn't look choreographed. He thought that we were having a ball of a time.
Every young actress entering Bollywood wants to become the next Deepika Padukone. You're being touted as the next big thing in the industry.
(Laughs) Yes, it took me just two years to come this far but there was a struggle of almost ten years into it I guess. I'm extremely happy but I am also not completely satisfied with my achievements. I still think I have a lot left to achieve and prove. My hard work has paid off to some extent and I have reached the level that I wanted to and hopefully will continue doing the same kind of work to reach higher levels.
Have you ever received any call from yourself?
Nope! I am quite scared of these things and I hope it doesn't. So sorry. No call from Deepika Padukone will be answered (laughs).
Producers and directors have targeted you as a completely commercial entity because you give hit films.
You know, I don't know about me being a commercial entity. I'm not really planning the kind of films that I want to do. For me, as long as it excites me, I do it. Then when I do it, it becomes a hit at the box office followed by critical acclaim. As long as that is working for me and I am enjoying the kind of roles I'm being offered, I'm not complaining.
What does the media not know about Farhan Akhtar?
That he has a great sense of humour. But I'm sure everyone knows that. So I don't know how well or not well the media knows him. He is meticulous and very proper. Everything has to be in order for Farhan or else he gets upset.Source: BollywoodHungama.com Features | 9 Feb 2010 | 3:44 am Shiv Sena threat casts shadow over 'My Name is Khan'MUMBAI (Reuters) - Bollywood is jittery over the fate of "My Name Is Khan", one of its biggest films of the year, with lead actor Shah Rukh Khan facing the ire of the Shiv Sena.Source: Reuters: Bollywood News | 9 Feb 2010 | 1:50 am
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