Search This Blog

Nov 29, 2008

Bachchan, Aamir blog about Mumbai attacks

The feeling of helplessness and shock in Bollywood over the Mumbai terror attacks was evident in the blogs of actors Amitabh Bhachchan and Aamir Khan [Images], two of the most prolific bloggers of Mumbai's film industry.

The actors, in their effort to reach out to the public in the hour of crisis, described their numbness at the events that unfolded in their beloved city. "My pain has been the sight and plight of my innocent and vulnerable and completely insecure countrymen, facing the wrath of this terror attack. And my anger has been at the ineptitude of the authorities that have been ordained to look after us," says Big B [Images] in his new blog post.

Similarly, Aamir says he feels, "Shocked, heartbroken, helpless and angry" and writes he felt sick while watching the TV images of a terrorised Mumbai. "I have been watching television since yesterday and to see various locations in Mumbai turned into a war zone is shocking and heartbreaking to say the least," he wrote.

"My heartfelt condolences to families of persons killed and taken hostage. I was feeling sick in the stomach when the fire broke out at the Taj," he added.

Amitabh Bachchan [Images] confessed that he has been living in a constant fear since the attacks. "Last night, as the events of the terror attack unfolded in front of me I did something for the first time and one that I had hoped never ever to be in a situation to do. Before retiring for the night, I pulled out my licensed .32 revolver, loaded it and put it under my pillow. For a very disturbed sleep," he wrote on his blog.

Both stars expressed their solidarity with the slain police officers and offered their condolences.

"Brilliant officers and police personnel have laid down their lives for us. I can only but salute them and respect their sincerity in the call of duty," said Bachchan.

Paying his homage to Hemant Karkare and other officers, Aamir said, "Hemant Karkare [Images] of the ATS, who in the recent past was being targeted by various political parties for the work that he was doing. When will these politicians lealise and admit that terrorists HAVE NO RELIGION.

"Terrorists are not Hindu or Muslim or Christian. They are not people of religion or God. They are people who have gone totally sick in their head and have to be dealt with in that manner," an angry Aamir said.

Bachchan said he was disgusted with the often repeated cliche of "spirit of Mumbai". "Yes Mumbai is strong and resilient and shall not be cowed down by any such occurrence. But let us not conveniently use it as our cover sheet, pull it over our heads and go off to sleep," an angry Bachchan said.

While Aamir, who had played a young idealist police officer fighting against terrorists in his film Sarfarosh, warned against politicians taking undue advantage of the situation for petty gains. "I dread to think of how various political parties are now going to try and use this tragedy to further their political careers," he wrote.

The actor appealed for all political parties to set aside their differences and unite in the hour of crisis. "At least now they should learn to not divide people and instead become responsible leaders. An incident such as this really exposes how ill-equipped we are as a society as far as proper leaders go.

"We desperately need young, dynamic,intelligent, honest and upright leaders, who actually care for the country," Aamir's blog said.

Posted on 4:29 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Actor Ashish Chowdhury loses sister, brother-in-law in attack

November 28, 2008 17:08 IST

Bollywood actor Ashish Chowdhury's sister and brother-in-law were among the many hostages killed at the Oberoi Trident Hotel in Mumbai.

The actor, who had been maintaining a tense vigil outside the hotel ever since he came to know about the terrorist attacks, broke down after hearing the news.

'My sister Monica and her husband have been inside the hotel along with maybe 40 other hostages. They came here for dinner last night, but now they are not answering any calls,' he had told a news channel on Thursday.

The couple, who were held hostage at the hotel in Mumbai since Wednesday night, were reportedly shot in the leg first and then straight in the head.

Posted on 4:28 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Yuvvraaj disappointed , thrown out of theatres

Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif
Yuvvraaj | Katrina Kaif | Salman Khan | Bollywood Videos | Hot N Spicy
Subhash Ghai's latest offering, Yuvvraaj has been one helluva disappointing film. The film not only opened to a below average response in the multiplexes, it also got a severe thrashing by the critics. The word of mouth spread about the film was completely negative. A lot was expected from the real life jodi – Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif having being paired romantically first time together but their on screen chemistry appeared completely thanda.

Industry trade sources tell us, "The film opened to 30-40% in all the major multiplexes on Friday but the collections actually dropped down further as Sunday came. Then on Monday it went lower to a poor 20-25%. Later, as the week progressed one saw just 30-40 people patronizing its show in most of the multiplexes. At some places even in big cities, the response dwindled so low that the multiplexes were left with no option but cancel some of Yuvvraaj's shows."
"Salman's last project, God Tussi Great Ho had met with almost a similar fate and it was necessary for him to deliver a hit in Yuvvraaj. But more than him it is the showman to be blamed for disappointing everybody, including Salman. It is learnt that some portions of the movie have been re-edited. But now it's too late!" the source further added.

Tags: yuvvraaj, salman khan, katrina kaif, subhash ghai.

Posted on 4:22 AM / 0 comments / Read More

"I am slept with gun under pillow after terror attacks" : Amitabh Bachan


Condemning the terror strike in Mumbai as a "terrible situation", Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan said that for the first time in his life he slept with his loaded licensed revolver.

"As the events of the terrorist attack unfolded in front of me, I did something for the first time and one that I had hoped never ever to be in a situation to do. Before retiring for the night, I pulled out my licensed .32 revolver, loaded it and put it under my pillow, for a very disturbed sleep," Amitabh wrote on his blog www.bigb.bigadda.com.

The superstar said he was glued to the TV screen late on Wednesday night when security personnel battled the terrorists who killed 125 people and injured 327 across the city.

Posted on 4:21 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Nov 25, 2008

Salman Khan in 'YUVVRAAJ' Special screening

Posted on 4:47 AM / 0 comments / Read More

First Look: 'Ghajini'

First Look: 'Ghajini'

'Ghajini', set and shot mostly in India, is a romantic thriller. It is about a once-rich businessman who suffers from short-term memory loss. Some sequences of the movie were shot in Deadpan Desert of Namibia and in Cape Town, South Africa.
First Look: 'Ghajini'
Cast and Crew: Directed by A. R. Murugadoss; Produced by Allu Aravind, Madhu Varma, Madhu Mantena; Written by A.R. Murugadoss, Starring: Aamir Khan, Asin Thottumkal, Jiah Khan; Music by A. R. Rahman; Cinematography by Ravi K. Chandran; Distributed by Studio 18 Adlabs; Release date: December 25, 2008

First Look: 'Ghajini'
Ravi K. Chandran cranks the camera for 'Ghajini'. His folio features such acclaimed works as 'Dil Chahta Hai', 'Koi...Mil Gaya', 'Black', 'Paheli', 'Fanaa' and 'Saawariya'.
Posted on 4:43 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Akshay Kumar's 'Blue' inspired by 'The Deep'?

Akshay Kumar's 'Blue' inspired by 'The Deep'?
Debutant director Anthony D' Souza says his underwater action thriller 'Blue', said to be one of the most expensive Hindi films, has borrowed some elements from the 1970s Hollywood movie 'The Deep'.
"To a certain extent 'Blue' is inspired by 'The Deep'," said D'Souza.
'The Deep', which released in 1977, was an underwater movie about a ship that sank with drugs and cocaine. The film, directed by Peter Yates, was even nominated for several awards, including the Oscars.
"My film has nothing to do with drugs and cocaine. It is based on lost treasure which three friends try to find. It is related to the obstacles that they face in the process and the deceit and betrayal among themselves and others," D'Souza told us.
"My film has certain special characters that will give it a different feel. Basically, 'Blue' is not only inspired by one film but has references from various underwater films and also creature films like 'Jaws'," he added.
Being made at a whopping Rs.1.29 billion budget, the film stars Sanjay Dutt, Akshay Kumar, Zayed Khan, Lara Dutta and Katrina Kaif.
About the characters in the movie, D'Souza said that while Sanjay and Akshay play fishermen based in the Bahamas, Zayed is a flamboyant guy who joins them in a treasure hunt. Lara plays Sanjay's wife and Katrina's character has grey shades to it.
"Most of the characters in my film are in grey shades. The bad guy in the film is one among the three main lead characters and Katrina will surprise the audience with her role," D' Souza said.
D'Souza said the fear factor of his movie are the 40 untrained real sharks that he has used to guard the treasure.
"The three heroes, who go on the mission, have to encounter the sharks before reaching the treasure," he added
Posted on 4:30 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Brad Pitt to play bald, old man in new film

Brad Pitt to play bald, old man in new film
Hollywood superstar Brad Pitt is to abandon his heart throb image and turn into a wrinkled and balding man for the upcoming drama 'The Curious Case of Benjamin Button'.
Directed by David Fincher, the film is adapted from the 1920s story by F. Scott Fitzgerald - about a man who is born in his 80s and ages backwards.
Set in New Orleans, Los Angeles, the film charts the character Button's (Pitt) journey from the end of World War I in 1918, into the 21st century.
Releasing Dec 25, the film also stars Cate Blanchett in the lead.
Posted on 4:21 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Taj Mahal under attack?

Is the Taj Mahal under attack?
Why are aliens attacking the Taj Mahal?

 

This picture is a specially created visual for the film 'The Day The Earth Stood Still' starring Keanu Reeves, Jennifer Connelly, Kathy Bates and Jaden Smith.

 

The future of the earth is in jeopardy and time is running out.
Will world leaders take heed of Klaatu's grim prophecy? Or is our
planet about to be destroyed?

 

Keanu Reeves gives a powerful performance as the iconic Klaatu and is joined by Jennifer Connelly, Kathy Bates and John Cleese.

 

Directed by Scott Derickson (‘The Exorcism of Emily Rose’), ‘The
Day the Earth Stood Still’ is 20th Century Fox's contemporary
reinvention of its 1951 classic.

 

Keanu Reeves portrays Klaatu, an alien whose arrival on our planet
triggers a global upheaval. As governments and scientists race to
unravel the mystery behind the visitor's appearance, a woman (Jennifer
Connelly) and her young stepson get caught up in his mission – and come
to understand the ramifications of his being a self-described "friend
to the Earth."

 

Says Keanu Reeves, “This film is a cautionary tale about human
survival on the precipice and our relationship to the planet. It's
about the fact that it is only when our backs are up against the wall
that we do anything to change our behavior.”

 
Posted on 4:19 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Shah Rukh Khan would like to work with Aamir

Newsmaker Shah Rukh Khan on his movies and IPL moves.
I would like to work with Aamir: Shah Rukh Khan

Q. Why have you pushed the release date of 'Billoo Barber' from November to early next year?

 

We could have worked round the clock and released 'Billoo Barber'
on November 21 but it would have been on the same day as Subhashji’s
'Yuvvraaj'.

 

And two weeks later, my 'Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi' would be released. So I thought we should shift 'Billoo Barber' for February 14 next year.

 


Q. Why February?

 

I won’t be in town in January. I’ll be shooting for Karan’s film
abroad. I want to be around during the release of 'Billoo Barber'. Now
I’ll have only one release this year, 'Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi'. 'Billoo
Barber' belongs to Irrfan Khan, he’s the hero of the film but I’m there
in a nice way.

 


Q. Once you’d said that all the three Khans should act together. What’s your take on that now?

 

It’s not up to me to decide. Aisa kuchh nahin hai...if it has to
happen some day, it will. But I would like to work with Aamir one day.
I always tell him that I’ve worked with every actor but with him.
Anyway there’s time. Abhi toh hum dono jawan hain aur dono ki body bhi
achhi hai.

 


Q. The second season of IPL is coming up soon. Are you in touch with all that’s going on in the cricketing world?

 

I don’t work with IPL.
I work for Knight Riders, that’s the company which we have. Yes, we
have been working to get the administration and the cricket team in
place.

 

But I don’t know how to do either... it’s not in my line of work.
So we have some experts looking into which player to choose and all
that. Last year was an experience to see kya hota hai. It’s a difficult
business but that makes it thrilling.

 


Q. What’s the game plan for Knight Riders?

 

That game plan is always done by the cricketing side. I can’t
suggest which player to take and how to go about it...that’s done by
experts. I do look at the administrative side because it’s my company.
We’re fixing up some specialists who know cricket, branding, and
merchandising.

 

Last year, we had only one month to work on various aspects but
now we’ve had more time on our hand. We’re the only team to organise
five camps. We already have one camp in Australia and three in India.
Our main ideology is to offer an alternate platform of professional
sports in India, inshallah.
Posted on 4:15 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Shahrukh Khan will officially receive his Datukship on December 6

Indian superstar Shahrukh Khan will officially receive his Datukship on December 6.

The Bollywood hunk will be conferred the Malaysian
title of 'Datuk', akin to the British knighthood, state secretary Datuk
Omar Kaseh, in a statement, has confirmed.

And he’s expected to receive the honour in traditional Malaysian attire.

The actor will be arriving at Kuala Lumpur International Airport at 7.30am before making his way to the state.

Kaseh said that the actor will receive his Darjah
Mulia Seri Melaka award at a ceremony at 10 a.m. at Dewan Seri Negri,
Ayer Keroh, in the presence of 1,000 invited guests.

"He will be conferred the Darjah Mulia Seri Melaka
(DMSM), which carries the title ‘Datuk', by Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun
Mohd Khalil Yaakob in conjunction with his 70th birthday. Shahrukh will
be wearing a black Baju Melayu for the ceremony. We will be inviting
about 1,000 guests to the investiture,” the ‘New Straits Times Online’
quoted him, as saying.

The actor is being awarded the DMSM for indirectly promoting the state to the world through six movies.

The actor is immensely popular among Malaysians and
had shot the film ‘One 2 Ka 4’ and a song sequence from his blockbuster
‘Don’ in Malacca.

Posted on 4:14 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Nov 21, 2008

Michael Jackson converts to Islam

Michael Jackson has converted to Islam and changed his name to Mikaeel.

The 50-year-old star, pledged his allegiance to the Koran in a ceremony at a friend's mansion in Los Angeles, the Sun reported.

Jackson sat on the floor wearing a tiny hat after an Imam was summoned to officiate -- days before the singer is due to appear at London's High Court where he is being sued by an Arab Sheik, the paper said.

The star decided to adopt the new religion while he was recording a song at the home of his friend where a Jehovah's witness was brought up to help him through the ceremony.

http://pnogal32.files.wordpress.com/2008/03/michael-jackson3.jpg

Apparently, the Beat It star was convinced by his producer and songwriter friends David Wharnsby and Phillip Bubal.

"They began talking to him about their beliefs, and how they thought they had become better people after they converted. Michael soon began warming to the idea. An Imam was summoned from the mosque and Michael went through the shahada, which is the Muslim declaration of belief," the source revealed.

Mikaeel is the name of one of Allah's angels.

"Jacko rejected an alternative name, Mustafa meaning "the chosen one", the source added.

The singer, who rarely ventures out without a mask, is due to give evidence on Monday in a 4.7 million pound lawsuit brought by Prince Abdulla Al-Khalif of Bahrain for defaulting on an exclusive recording contract.






Posted on 4:23 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Aamir Khan in Ghajini!



Aamir Khan in a scene from Ghajini

What saves this outfit from becoming a carbon copy of outfit number two? Well, the shades minus the hat as well as the all black colour theme.

The song was shot over a period of 20 days in South Africa. Towards the end of the song, all six characters come together on screen.


Aamir Khan in a scene from Ghajini

It seems that Aamir Khan is willing to do quite a lot for his upcoming film, Ghajini. First, he shaved his head. Then, he whipped up his body into deadly shape. And now, he's all set to dazzle us with six new looks in a single song!

Titled Behka, the song sees Aamir playing six outrageous characters to woo his heroine, Asin. And here's a sneak peek.

We start off with this chest-baring outfit which is sure to give a certain stylish Khan a complex. We're very sure, though, that the girls aren't complaining.

Aamir Khan in a scene from Ghajini


A deft use of accessories -- hat, braces, chain belt, neckpiece and friendship bands -- jazzes up this biker look
Aamir Khan in a scene from Ghajini

Here the actor looks like his old self. In case you're wondering, the variations aren't just different looks but different personas as well
Aamir Khan in a scene from Ghajini

Aamir's hair has been styled by Avan Contractor, who has done most of Aamir's hairstyles, including the popular Dil Chahta Hai look. Arjun Bhasin has done the costumes


Aamir Khan in a scene from Ghajini





Aamir looks to
win over Asin with spiky hair and bulging biceps. Will he be
successful? Find out when the film releases on December 25.



Posted on 4:15 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Aamir Khan’s look in 3 Idiots

There is no doubt that Aamir Khan has established himself as one of
the leading actors of Hindi

inema. aamir Aamir Khans unique look in 3 IdiotsHe has a place for his looks and
his unique style in the films. 



The great thing about Aamir has been that he has always stuck to is
principles and not got swayed by the controversies in the industries.
His fans and the rest of the country are patiently waiting for his
upcoming film Ghajini.


Aamir’s new look in Ghajini has become the talk of the town. After
Ghajini the next film of Amir Khan is Three Idiots. This film is
directed by Raj Kumar Hirani. It is said that in this film Aamir will
have a lean look. He has been working a lot for his look in Ghajini but
he would not do injustice to his role in Three Idiots too ,where he is
said to be playing a softer role that of a college student. He will
play the role as a adventurous and a handsome guy who happens to love
his friends more than his parents.


The director Raj Kumar Hirani has kept in mind Aamir and the knows
what his character will look like in the film.It is said that a lot of
changes are made in his character of Aamir than what it is in the
book.Aamir will need to loose lots of weight and will have to walk with
a hunched back.

he shooting of the film will start in December in
Bangalore. In Banglore largest part of the film will be shooted and and
Kareena Kapoor is supposed to be playing the female lead in the film
which is based on Chetan Bhagat’s novel Five Point Someone.
Posted on 4:08 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Nov 15, 2008

Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi







After lying low for more than a year, Shah Rukh Khan will be seen this December with Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi.
The film stars newcomer Anushka Sharma, a model. The low-budget film
has only three characters, played by Shah Rukh, Vinay Pathak and
Anushka.


Rab Ne... marks Aditya Chopra's return to direction. Adi's last film was the 2000 Mohabbatein,
which starred Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh and Aishwarya Rai. Since
then, he has focussed on making Yash Raj Films the most powerful studio
in Bollywood.


In a recent
interview, Shah Rukh revealed there are only three people in the film
industry from whom he seeks advice: directors Farah Khan, Karan Johar
and Adi.


di and SRK's association began when the actor worked on Yash Chopra's Darr and was cemented on Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge, the younger Chopra's 1995 movie debut.


DDDLJ
is the longest-running film in the history of Indian cinema. More than
600 weeks, you can still watch it at Mumbai's famous Maratha Mandir
theatre.


It also
commenced SRK's friendship with Karan Johar, one of Adi's assistants on
the film; KJo also had a bit part as one of Shah Rukh's friends.

Unlike SRK, Akshay didn't make another film for Yash Raj, despite his megastar appeal, until this year's unfortunate Tashan.

his past year has severely dented Yash Raj and Adi's infallibility. The studio is hoping that Rab Ne... wipes out the horrific memories of flops like Ta Ra Rum Pum, Jhoom Barabar Jhoom, Laaga Chunri Mein Daag, Aaja Nach Le, Tashan, Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic, Roadside Romeo.... Its last hit was the August 2007 Shah Rukh starrer, Chak De India!.


Posted on 2:04 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Amitabh Bachchan joins





Bollywood
superstar Amitabh Bachchan will be back to work finally from today
(November 15). He resumes work after a much- needed break in Udaipur.

Confirming his return to the archlights, he says, "I'm starting on the 15th with Leena Yadav's Teen Patti. There isn't much pending work there."

He
was in Udaipur taking a break with his personal physician accompanying
him. "I needed to get away from home. I needed time to myself, to read
and write. And to watch the films that I've been meaning to for a long
time. It was so peaceful out here. I should do this more often. But
where is the time to take time off?"

They don't call him the
Big B for nothing. Generous and considerate towards his fans and
well-wishers to the point of self-destruction, the Big B is more than
willing to meet the disappointed hordes who were turned away on his
birthday after his sudden illness.

"My fans are never a
burden. They are welcome any time. I publicly meet them every Sunday
and specific ones get to meet me on my films' sets. No issues there."

Big B regrets the fact that his illness took away his fans' excitement on his birthday.

"However,
health issues do not wait for an opportune moment. They happen. It is
nature. It is biological. We do not have control over them. Yes, this
one happened on my birthday. So what?"

He is supremely pleased
to be home. "But I do regret not being able to meet the well-wishers
who assemble to greet me. I am sure they have understood the gravity of
the situation. There will be other moments to make up for the loss."

Family
friends like Karan Johar and Sanjay Dutt who are abroad, kept calling
to express their concern throughout Big B's weeklong hospitalisation.
And he was overwhelmed and embarrassed by the extra attention.

Commenting
regretfully on the postponement of Abhishek and Aishwarya's schedule of
Mani Ratnam's film, Big B says, "They were to leave the next day but
stayed back and rescheduled their programme because of my condition. I
generally do not like the idea of attention and of disturbing others
with my condition, but I shall respect their decision even if they
disagree with me. Particularly so now."

The general opinion
about Abhishek is that he's as good a son to his father as the Big B
was to his. The Big B says with paternal pride.

"I am grateful
that others think so compassionately about Abhishek. My father is not
alive to give an assessment of what he thought of me as a son. But I
am. And I am happy and full of pride to have Abhishek as my devoted
son."

Back to work, a small portion of Shootjit Sircar's film remains to be shot.

"We
needed to wait for a particular climate to shoot the remaining work.
That is now ready and we shall be finishing the entire shoot soon. I'm
also in the process of sorting out the dates for the film to be
produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. Good to have so much variety thrown
in my direction."

In the meanwhile, AB Corp Ltd is ready to
resume operations. Big B isn't too pleased by the suggestion that his
production company had slowed down.

"I laugh at the constant
refrain of 'AB. Corp resuming production'. Resuming? We have been in
production all along. Yes, they may not have attracted attention .But
we are there. I shall keep you abreast as time approaches on our
projects."
Posted on 2:00 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Nov 13, 2008

Autistic role for Anil Kapoor in`Yuvvraaj`




Anil Kapoor plays autistic role in Salman-Katrina starrer `Yuvvraaj`



Mumbai, Nov 13: After the success of `Taare Zameen Par`, now Anil Kapoor

will be seen as an autistic in his forthcoming movie `Yuvvraaj`.


"Anil
plays elder brother to Salman and Zayed Khan. Subhash Ghai had been
meaning to incorporate a physically-psychologically challenged
character into his script for a long time. It was Anil who told
Subhashji the story idea for `Yuvvraaj`," a source said.

If sources are to be believed Anil`s reference point in `Yuvvraaj` is Tom Hanks in `Forrest Gump`.

This
isn`t the first time that Anil is playing an autistic role. In K
Vishwanath`s `Eeshwar` too he was cast as a slow, saintly man who wins
over a village widow. Anil has self-admittedly copied Raj Kapoor in
`Eeshwar`.

Shah Rukh Khan too plays an isolated Muslim suffering from an autistic disorder in Karan Johar`s `My Name Is Khan`.

IANS

Posted on 3:16 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Nov 11, 2008

Katrina and SRK together in Yash Raj’s next film

ImageYash Chopra is going back to directing a film after a gap of four years. The shoot for this film begins in January 2009. Chopra has managed a casting coup of sorts bringing Amitabh and Abhishek Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan and Katrina Kaif together.

After the infamous brawl between the two Khans, Salman and Shah Rukh, at Katrina’s birthday party, it was taken for granted that Salman’s girlfriend will not star in any of the projects starring King Khan. But the actress broke the ice and went ahead with SRK’s Temptations world tour in Dubai.

Now sources claim, when Chopra personally went and met her for this role, she just could not refuse. It was a dream come true for her since working under the Yash Raj Films banner with Yash Chopra directing is still an aspiration for many actors.

Katrina was supposed to do Yash Raj Films’ Bachna Ae Haseeno earlier but later refused to do the movie. She is in Yash Raj Films’ next film, New York, directed by Kabir Khan starring Neil Nitin Mukesh and John Abraham.

Posted on 5:01 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Salman gets serious

Bollywood’s bad boy Salman Khan has not had a rosy year in Bollywood. Starting from Saawariya in late 2007, all of the actor’s films have crashed at the box office. Normally not known to go all out and market his film, Khan is now said to be taking a lot of care as far as Yuvvraaj is concerned.

salman-khan

A source close to the actor says that Khan used to initially spend only a few days just before the release of his films, but now he is planning an entire session to interact with the media at various intervals.

"Salman is a person who never goes to depression but as almost all his films this year have not done well. So now he is giving his time for the promotion of Yuvvraaj,” says a source.

The actor will be going on various reality shows in the next two weeks for the promotion of Yuvvraaj. He will also be giving numerous press and media interviews to ensure that he can bring people to the theatres to see his film.

“People love Salman even if his film is a flop. But this is the first time he is being paired opposite Katrina and so he is quite confident of it working for his audiences. And so he is going all out to promote his next release,” says the source.

Yuvvraaj releases on November 21.
Posted on 5:00 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Aishwarya-Hrithik once again in Bhansali’s next

Mumbai, Nov 11: Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and hubby dearest Abhishek Bachchan with their perfect Bachchan mannerisms, have often been touted as the golden couple, but when it comes to business the filmmakers simply choose to ignore this picture perfect couple. And they march ahead to cast the sultry beauty Ash opposite her reel prince charming Hrithik Roshan.

After delivering a smash-hit flick like ‘Jodhaa Akbar’, the gorgeous twosome have once again caught the fancy of yet another acclaimed director - Sanjay Leela Bhansali. The filmmaker, who faced much flak for his failed close-to-heart project ‘Saawariya’ is all set to make a spectacular return with the ‘it’ couple of filmdom.

But unlike popular belief that the director has bought the two together for his magnum opus project ‘Heera Mandi’, we have learnt that Sanjay has drawn an all-new script for the couple.

A news daily even quoted a source as saying, "Sanjay has been trying to get his Heera Mandi off the ground for a long time. Because of the film's sheer magnitude and the hassles of getting an ensemble cast together for a single shooting schedule, he gave up and began penning his next, a romantic feature, earlier this year."

The film that will hit floor in July this year, will have the director working with Hrithik for the very first time.

Well, here’s hoping that Aishwarya’s reel ‘saawariya’ proves lucky for Sanjay!
Posted on 4:58 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Sanjay Dutt returns with 35-inch waist in ‘Lamhaa’

Mumbai, Nov 11: Sanjay Dutt refuses to let age take over his muscular body. The muscle-packed actor is sporting a fabulous new look for his forthcoming film, ‘Lamhaa’, in which he is playing the role of a military officer. With salt-and-pepper beard, dyed hair and military bearing, the veteran actor is sure to make the young actors go green with envy.

The first thing Sanjay was required to do was grow a thick beard. "Sanju has also coloured his hair. Sanjay has never done this before," says friend and producer Bunty Walia. "He has never cultivated any kind of special look for a role. When he had played a police officer in Mission Kashmir, he had used a moustache for the first time."

Shabina Khan, the famous designer for men, has been roped in to give Sanjay the hot look. "He's come back from his holiday looking so slim and what a stride! Of course his waistline isn't like Sylvester Stallone's. At 63, that guy has a 32- inch waist. I know because I dressed him up for Sajid Nadiadwala's Kambakth Ishq. Sanjay Dutt has come back with a 35-inch waist. He has grown a salt-and-pepper beard. And I've coloured his hair salt-and-pepper for Lamhaa," she said while talking to a new daily.

"I shopped for him for three days in NY. Every shirt, trousers, jeans, boots, shoes belt, watches and accessory he wears in Lamhaa has been purchased by me in New York. I shopped until Bunty's bank balance dropped. Budget? Bunty never counts pennies. I feel changing Sanjay's look was a big challenge. I love it. He's a Greek God in person," added Shabina.
Posted on 4:57 AM / 0 comments / Read More

'Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi' theatrical promo to hit theatres

The much awaited theatrical promo of Aditya Chopra's ‘Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi’ will be unveiled in theatres worldwide this Friday (November 14).

This promo of ‘Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi’ is being released with ‘Dostana’ which is also being distributed by Yash Raj Films. So if you have seen 'Haule Haule', the first musical promo of the film, and want to know what the film is all about, get ready to check out the film's theatrical promo.

‘Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi’ stars Shah Rukh Khan and debutante Anushka Sharma, and is written and directed by Aditya Chopra. The music of the film is by Salim-Sulaiman and the lyrics are by Jaideep Sahni.

Posted on 4:55 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Nov 10, 2008

Veer _ Movie stills

Veer - Movie Still1
Veer - Movie Still2

Posted on 2:19 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Nov 6, 2008

Toyota RAV



Santa Ana-based MV Designz took Toyota's overtly practical RAV4 and kicked the majority of the 'ute's functionality out the hatch. With a custom wide body kit, front and rear fascias, LED headlamps, hood and panoramic glass roof, the RAV4 Performance Sport comes off as a prop reject from the stillborn Judge Dredd sequel, and the 22x9.5 (front) and 22x10 (rear) USW wheels and lowered suspension won't do it any dynamic favors. No word on engine mods outside of a new exhaust, but with the added aerodynamic drag and an interior stocked with Alpine goodies, we'd guess that the base V6 will have a hard time living up to Toyota's line about the RAV4 Performance Sport being "ready to set new speed records."
Posted on 12:30 AM / 2 comments / Read More

SEMA 2008: The return of Ugliest.



We called it the Ugliest. Mustang. Ever. Our readers called it a pony with rabies, a monstrosity and an abomination. Many of you didn't even believe the car was real. For some reason the guys over at Rich Evans Designs were willing to once again face public humiliation and brought out what they call the "Hardcore Knight" Mustang to SEMA once again. We thought we noticed some differences, and looking back at the photos from last year, we can see they added a few extra spikes (for good measure) to the roof line and the mirrors. Everything else remains relatively the same, including the belief that they can actually sell versions of the car to the public. Rich Evan's web site claims that they will be producing 100 limited edition cars and up to 1000 of the 19-piece component kits to make your own. We wish him the best of luck.

Posted on 12:29 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Abhishek Bachchan gets a new look for ‘Raavan’




Spicezee Bureau

Mumbai, Nov 05: Actor Abhishek Bachchan, who has never been too keen on working out for fitness, has now bid goodbye to his flab by losing 15 kgs for his role in Mani Ratnam's ‘Raavan’. Not only has Abhi Jr shed his weight, but has also got his hair trimmed to give the character a real feel.

According to our source, "Mani Ratnam wanted Abhi to have a lean body for the lead role in ‘Raavan’. Mani also asked Abhishek to get a crew cut so that he looks convincing in his role."

Here’s hoping that the toned up Abhishek will be much more impressive than the previous unshaven fat looking hero who was surely getting more unkempt and boring day by day.
Posted on 12:26 AM / 0 comments / Read More

Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi


Aah, now this one is a huge film. For a 10 year old who may still be wondering what's the fuss about the coming together of Shah Rukh Khan and Aditya Chopra, a trip to Maratha Mandir, Mumbai, is mandatory to check out Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge which is still running there for 13 uninterrupted years.

And for the grown-ups, Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi hardly needs an introduction. Of course, the music of any Yash Raj Film is special because regardless the fate of some of their recent films, music continues to be highpoint of the production house, Tashan and Bachna Ae Haseeno being the case in point.

Talking about the music of RNBJD, one looks forward to what composer duo of Salim-Sulaiman and lyricist Jaideep Sahni have come up with, considering this is easily their BIGGEST project ever.

Also, they would be expected to fill the shoes of Jatin-Lalit who made the score of DDLJ and Mohabbatein, the two projects directed by Aditya Chopra, ever-so-memorable.

a) So, does the music eventually go on to meet the sky high expectations?
b) Has Aditya Chopra indeed reserved the best songs for his third directorial outing?
c) Will Shah Rukh Khan have yet another blockbuster score a la Om Shanti Om to his credit?
d) Does Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi turn out to be the kind which would be played at least 3-4 years from now, if not a decade?

So how does one sum up the music of Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi? Well, it is not bad but then it is primarily situational; the kind that gets enhanced by picturisation and choreography.

The sound of 'santoor' at the very beginning of 'Tujh Mein Rab Dikhta Hai' attracts one's attention right away since you immediately get the feel of a Veer Zaara outing.

A simple outing that has an out and out Indian feel to it; 'Tujh Mein Rab Dikhta Hai' starts off well but just doesn't pick up enough, courtesy the choice of singer.

Seriously, instead of Roop Kumar Rathod being entrusted with the responsibility of a track which is the flagship number of RNBDJ, if a singer like Udit Narayan or Sonu Niigaam or K.K. would have been the chosen one, the song could well have gone to a different level altogether.

In the end, it turns out to be a more than decent number which certainly could have been much better. Also, it doesn't quite turn out to be the kind which deserves to appear at the very beginning of the album.

Female version of the song, a much slower one, comes towards the album's end and has Shreya Ghoshal at the helm. A 100 second piece, it is a slower version and a sad one at that. Purely situational.

A slightly better number comes in the form of 'Haule Haule', a number which carries the flavor of Aaja Nachle soundtrack both in terms of middle-class setting and the overall simplicity of sound design.

Rendered by Sukhwinder Singh who is subdued rather than being typically full throated, 'Haule Haule' is a situational track which is already on air and is being noticed for the way the bespectacled Shah Rukh Khan brings in all his experience while comfortably dancing around in his middle class clothing. The number has melody as its driving force.

Would 'Dance Pe Chance' turn out to be that number which would make RNBDJ soundtrack special? This is what one wonders when this track sung by Sunidhi Chauhan and Labh Janjua arrives next.

However, to one's disappointment, 'Dance Pe Chance' has an ordinary orchestra and arrangements that pull the song back. Preset keyboard sound seems to be driving this 'dance number' that is mainly a Sunidhi Chauhan track with an element of Punjabi being thrown in, courtesy Labh Janjua.

A song where a plain and simple Shah Rukh Khan seems to be going through dance classes, 'Dance Pe Chance' is a number where Salim-Sulaiman haven't done anything special and just followed the sound they have already brought to the audience in films like Neal N Nikki.

A four minute remix version 'Dancing Jodi' marks an end to the album and is marginally better due to all the pep and rhythm thrown in. Also, it includes references to 'Tujh Mein Rab Dikhta Hai' and 'Haule Haule'.

'Phir Milenge Chalte Chalte' is a kind of number which (on screen) could turn out to be good on screen, purely on the basis of how Aditya Chopra gets some fun rolling on the screen.

This one is clearly an experiment in the making since it amalgamates numerous lyrics and tunes from the yesteryear and mixes them together to create a 'bhelpuri' of sorts. So whether it is 'Jab Pyaar Kisi Se Hota Hai', 'Pal Bhar Ke Liye Koyi Hamein Pyaar Kar Le' or 'Hum Hai Rahi Pyaar Ke' or 'O Haseena Zulfon Waali' or 'Jai Jai Shiv Shankar' - the number includes them all and many more with Sonu Nigam singing as if he is a part of a concert where he has to pay a homage to all the greats from the past.

As a standalone number, 'Phir Milenge Chalte Chalte' just doesn't stand a chance and certainly not the kind which would be solely responsible for the sales of the album.

There were four questions that were raised at the beginning of the review. This is what one has to say after hearing the entire album:

a) The music is decent but not huge enough to befit a project which marks the return of Aditya Chopra as a director
b) Aditya Chopra has been responsible for far better romantic outings, most recently being Bachna Ae Haseeno
c) The music will sell well but touching the numbers of Om Shanti Om would be feasible only if the movie turns out to be an excellent fare with a sustained presence at the box office
d) It seems highly improbable that the songs would remain rooted for years at stretch in the hearts of music buffs who expect nothing but the best from a project as huge and important as RNBDJ.

However, what needs to be remembered is that Aditya Chopra has been one of the pioneers when it comes to song picturisation. How can one forget songs like 'Ho Gaya Hai Tujhko To Pyaar Sajna'/'Mere Khwabon Mein Jo Aaye' (DDLJ) or 'Chalte Chalte'/'Soni Soni' (Mohabbatein) which were not the flagship numbers of the respective films ('Tujhe Dekha' and 'Humko Humi Se Churalo' were) but still turned out to be widely popular. The same can be ultimately expected from RNBJD, if response to just-on-air 'Haule Haule' is any indication.

If the remaining songs too come close to 'Haule Haule' in the way they are picturised, rest assured RNBJD too would do well. Add to it the curiosity around SRK and Aditya Chopra coming together and the album can be expected to take a flying start at the stands.

Posted on 12:24 AM / 0 comments / Read More
 
Copyright © 2011. Bollywood Hollywood