I'm supposed to be violently in love with Shruti

By Subhash K Jha Ravi Kissan who has come in for lavish praise for his portrayal of the serial killer in Soham Shah’s Luck, says his next two releases Soham Shah’s Luck and Mani Ratnam’s Raavan have taken out the Bhojpuri-actor tag from his career. Not that he is giving up Bhojpuri films. “But I’m finally getting the kind of roles in Hindi cinema that I’ve waited for, ” Ravi said before heading to Kerala for the last schedule of Ratnam’s film. “It’s the climax of Raavan and I love climaxes. We’re all looking forward to it.Abhishek who plays my younger brother has really become like my brother. I play this guy who can kill for my bhai.’ For his role in Luck and Raavan Ravi lost 15 kgs. “Bhojpuri films require their men and women to look healthier than normal. I had to lose all those kilos for my return to Hindi films. But the effort has paid off.” When Ravi Kissan got to know that Kamal Haasan had watched his daughter’s debut film Luck he was petrified. In the film Ravi’s character is shown to be pushing his unwanted attentions on Shruti Haasan constantly. Says Ravi, “I’m quite an animal in Luck. And I mean that literally.I’ve taken cues for my character’s behaviour from jungle animals including hyenas, tigers, panthers…I behave like a creature from the wilderness. On top of that I’m supposed to be violently in love with Shruti. I’m a complete psycho.” Ravi was scared of how Shruti’s father would react. “Lekin jaan mein jaan ayee when he praised me for my performance. Coming from one of the legends of our industry it was a relief.I feel I’ve graduated from regional to national cinema.” Not that Ravi Kissan is giving up Bhojpuri films, God forbid! “I’ll be doing five Bhojpuri films per year. Out of these two will be my home production.”

Salman's dad comes to the rescues for John's film

By Subhash K Jha In an industry where creative minds are forced to work in tight-fisted isolation here’s a story of shared generosity that melts the heart. Just weeks before Abbas Tyrewala is to start shooting his second feature film 1:800 Love he was stuck in a crucial pre-climax sequence. It was then that Abbas though of the screen-writing phenomenon Salim Khan. Says Abbas, “The situation could’ve been potentially destructive for me. I needed a second opinion on my script. It’s easy to sit within your own creative circle and feel smug and sure.” That’s when Abbas remembered Salim Khan. “Salim Khan had sent me message after seeing Jaane Tu….Ya Jaane Na that he wanted to meet me. I had dropped in out of a sense of courtesy for a man who along with Javed Akhtar Saab had changed the way we look at screenplays in Hindi cinema. I spent almost the entire day with him discussing cinema and life.I came away enriched. He had said my Jaane Tu… was one of those very few films where after watching no change seems possible. And now when I needed a second opinion on my second film I naturally thought of Salim Saab.” The celebrated scriptwriter immediately invited Abbas over. But because of his pre-production work Abbas was unable to go personally. “He wanted to me to narrate my script to him. I’d have loved to. That didn’t happen. So I offered to send him the script of 1: 800 Love. He got back in no time at all. And suggested some changes here and there.” But the most radical change that Salim Khan suggested took Abbas completely by surprise. “He wanted me to make changes in the tone and dialogues of the pre-climax sequence. At the very moment when Salim Saab told me to make the change I was doing exactly that! At that very minute I was sitting down to change that scene. It’s amazing that he could ferret out that very weak spot in my screenplay that troubled me and suggest how to alter it.” Salim Khan has also suggested several changes in the dialogues that Abbas and his wife Pakhi (who also plays the female lead in the film) have gladly incorporated. “Now when I start my workshops with John and Pakhi I feel so much more confident about my characters and what they’ve to say and do.” Now Abbas has no problems billing Salim Khan in the credits of 1:800 Love. “In fact my wife Pakhi and I welcome Salim Saab’s name in the credits. What an honour!” It could be recalled that Ratna Pathak Shah was the ghost-consultant on the script of Abbas’ Jaane Tu….Ya Jaane Na. “I guess I’m just Lucky to have so many creative minds helping me out, ” sighs Abbas.

Priyanka Chopra drags down Shahid in Dirt!

When Shahid Kapoor rode pillion with Priyanka to shoot a song sequence in his Guddu avatar, little did he know that he will hit the ground and how! Priyanka had to ride the scooter and Shahid was to sit behind her. The shot was simple enough; they just had to ride till about 15 meters. However, it got complicated when Priyanka could not manage the balance of the two-wheeler. They did a couple of takes but the scooter seemed to not be in her grip, and as a result both she and Shahid went down with a thud on the mucky road. Neither of them was hurt, as the speed of the scooter was slow. The unit hands came rushing to help them both, but this got difficult as both Shahid and Priyanka had, by then, burst into a fit of spontaneous laughter, much to the units chagrin. Everyone joined in once they were sure that both the stars were safe and unhurt. However, the wet mud and dirt on the road didn’t go so easily and shooting had to be stopped for nearly an hour, while both the stars wiped themselves clean. Amazingly enough, the next take of the shot was Ok. Shahid still teases Priyanka about his fall, as this is the only time in his life that he had ever fallen off a scooter.

Saif plays younger Rishi Kapoor in Love Aaj Kal

Click above for more stills

This has got to be seen. Imtiaz Ali's third directorial venture Love Aaj Kal is already been talked about for various reasons including Kareena Kapoor's 'ghost appearance'.

But Kareena's ghost haunts not just Deepika Padukone's presence in the film. Saif's character in a bizarre so-far undisclosed way is also wedded to Kareena.

It now comes to light that in one segment of the film, Saif plays Rishi Kapoor who happens to be Kareena's uncle in real life. And when we say Saif 'plays' Rishi Kapoor, we mean Rishi Kapoor's character grows younger in the plot to become Saif.

This isn't the first time that two actors have played the same character. Smriti Mishra and Kirron Kher played two phases in the life of Shyam Benegal's Sardari Begum. But they were not connected the way Saif and Rishi are by Kareena.

Without giving away the plot a source discloses, "The same character is played by Saif in a flashback and then Rishi Kapoor in present times. Unfortunately, Chintuji has little screen time with his son's girlfriend Deepika. But he gets to bond for a major screen time with his niece Kareena's boyfriend and yes, they play the same character in two different time zones."

Without revealing much, let's just say Rishi's character plays the passionate lover-guy who believes love conquers all. "At the end we see him with his real-life love interest and soul-mate Neetu Singh who makes a one-shot appearance," says a source.

The Kapoors and the Khans couldn't have hoped for a better merger before Saif and Kareena's marriage.

Movie Review Luck

By Taran Adarsh Rating: *** Fasten your seat belts and get ready for hardcore stunts and thrills, Hollywood ishtyle. Come to think of it, Bollywood hasn't churned out stylised action movies as regularly as it churns out comedies and rom-coms. There's a vacuum for sure. But Luck fills that lacuna. Be rest assured, you haven't watched such thrills since DHOOM 2. Luck is more of a hi-concept film. Three decades ago, Krishna Shah's SHALIMAR narrated the adventures of a billionaire who assembles/invites criminals/gangsters from across the globe to perform the heist of a precious diamond that he possesses. The concept isn't similar here, but in this case too, a gambler assembles people from across the globe for a concept called human betting. Luck may not be high on story, but the concept and at least four stylised thrilling sequences make a big difference. Simply put, it makes Luck Lucky. Luck may have loads of thrills, but director Soham Shah ensures that the grand canvas and stylised thrills appeal to every strata of movie-going audience. Only thing, had screenplay writers Soham Shah and Rensil D'Silva worked doubly hard to come up with a watertight script, it would've only worked wonders. After weighing the pros and cons, it can be said that Luck rides on star power, its concept and adrenaline-pumping thrills primarily. If you're into thrillers or have been missing one, Luck holds the key. Luck tells the tale of mafia kingpin Musa [Sanjay Dutt], who has one obsession: To revolutionize the betting industry. For him, life is a gamble and what better way to skew the odds than play with those with Luck on their side. Different characters from different parts of the world, each with Lady Luck in their favour, are brought in to play the game of death. With millions at stake, how far will each of them go in courting danger and deceit? The very start of the film transports you to a different world. The viewer is drawn into a world where bets are placed on humans and death-defying stunts are the order of the day. The train sequence at the very start says it all. It's a sequence that not only introduces you to the plot, but also makes a hammer-strong impact. You haven't watched something like this on the Hindi screen before. The game of death is far more dangerous than those witnessed in the reality shows. The revolver sequence [the first challenge], the helicopter jump, the underwater sequence with sharks and the train sequence in the climax give you goose bumps and remain etched in your memory. There's a scene involving a lighter too, which is sure to draw whistles and claps. But the film slips due its ineffectual writing. It gyrates from engrossing to bas-theek-hain towards the second hour. The romantic track, to be specific, is flaccid. Also, the climax should've concluded the moment Imran wins the jackpot money of Rs. 20 crores. Wasn't that his motive when he entered the game with his eyes wide open? So why this sudden urge to confront Sanjay Dutt after the game is over? Had the prize money doubled to Rs. 40 crores, it would've made sense. Or, for that matter, if he had a personal score to settle with Sanju, the game of death would've looked plausible. There's no motive in the first place. Moreover, the sequence in the hospital, towards the end, may be true, medically speaking, but the question is, was it necessary in a film of this genre? Frankly, it robs the film of its seriousness and even compels you to break in a full- throated roar, a reaction that is completely unwarranted. Even Shruti Haasan's double role doesn't cut ice. Soham Shah has made a stylish film and the fact remains that he has an eye for visuals. But Soham should've stuck to the spirit of the film, instead of getting into diversions [romance and the penultimate scene]. Salim-Sulaiman's music is vibrant and 'Aasma' is easily the pick of the lot. The background score [Amar Mohile] is electrifying. Santosh Thundiyil's cinematography matches international standards. Ditto for the sound design by Dwarak Warrier. Allan Amin's stunts and thrills are a major USP. Sanju is perfect for this part and enacts it with natural ease. Actually, here's one role that only he could've portrayed so effectively. Imran is getting better with every film. Watch his helplessness at the start or his confidence when he takes to the stunts. Even towards the latter reels, he's very much in sync with his character. Shruti Haasan is a star, no two opinions on that. The confidence with which she carries off this role just cannot be overlooked. Ravi Kishan is another scene-stealer. You are under the impression that he may get lost in the crowd, but he stands tall. The masses will love him. Mithun Chakraborty is controlled and delivers a truly fine performance. Danny Denzongpa is, as always, so perfect. Very few actors have that ability to stand out in a crowd. He's one of them. Chitrashi is excellent. The sequence in the hospital is superb. Rati Agnihotri gets no scope. On the whole, Luck rides on star power, adrenaline-pumping thrills and a concept that's novel for the Indian screens. Despite some loose ends, these three factors primarily would ensure a Lucky journey at the box-office.

Shahid refuses Gowariker for Priyanka Chopra

After What’s Your Rashee, Ashutosh Gowariker has already started penning down a new script for his next film. Mobile Review He approached King Khan but Shah Rukh Khan turned down the offer. After all the ‘Swades’ debacle is still lingering in the puns of Awards functions! So SRK cited some date problems. Indeed once bitten, twice shy! Now next on Gowariker’s wish list was Shahid but to his shock, the actor too refused to work in his film. Not many people know that earlier Shahid had verbally committed to do his flick. Well what is the reason for Shahid backing out suddenly? Business Glossary Is it because of Gowariker’s statement on Piggy Chops at the IIFA? Ashutosh humiliated Piggy Chops at the IIFA ceremony by making a comment on stage that not her but Aishwarya deserved the best actress trophy. Did Ashutosh’s comment on Piggy Chops didn’t go down well with Shahid? Hmm... Seems like, camping with the Bachchans’ is alienating Ashutosh from the industry, first he creates ruckus at Film Awards, then humiliates Piggy Chops and now no actor is ready to work with him. After all, nobody likes a nagger!

Race 2: Bipasha kicked out for Kareena Kapoor

By Subhash K Jha Though for a while it seemed Abbas-Mustan would not be doing the sequel to Race, it seems the producers Tips and the Tauranis have been convinced by the film’s leading man Saif Ali Khan to rope in Abbas-Mustan again. Explains Saif, “They understand the pulse of plot. Race was a fast-paced action-adventure caper. Not too many filmmakers in Bollywood would’ve done such a wonderful job of it.” Apparently the producers and the usually-affable directorial duo had certain issues to be resolved. And if Saif had not intervened the film would’ve gone from Abbas-Mustan’s hands. But Saif is keen to revive the Race magic with Abbas-Mustan, not only because the first part of the film was a blockbuster, but also because lady-love Kareena Kapoor co-stars with him. Says Saif, “Yes Kareena will be part of Race. We’re yet to flesh out the details. But Race 2 has to be bigger and larger than Race. Otherwise no point in making it.” Apparently Race 2 will be more gadget and gizmo-friendly, as upwardly-scaled as Dhoom 2 was as compared with Dhoom. Bipasha’s character has been written out of the script to make way for Kareena.

Darsheel's Farting gets him the main role in film

Suresh Menon and Juhi Parmar will now be seen parenting ‘the biggest farter’ the world has ever seen. Darsheel of TZP fame after portraying the trauma of a dyslexic child will now deal with flatulence aka fart troubles in the desi film aptly called ‘Padduram’. Bollywood Celebrities Wallpaper Film addresses the issue that we have known and relate to, but coyly overlook. Story revolves around a child having gas problem, which often puts him in an embarrassing situation. “Child is the protagonist of the film and as parents we are part of his life. We try to help him cope with this ‘paddu’ problem. I am playing a very protective father just like in real life, ” briefs Menon. He adds further, “I am already quiet plump but they have made me fatter for this film.” Mummy Juhi shares, “It’s a feel-good film; you will experience extreme emotions while watching the film. At times you will be rolling around laughing and then, the very next moment you feel your eyes well up with tears.” Bollywood FM She divulges further, “Film conveys a message across to the audience that such problems have to be dealt with immense sensitivity especially when it’s concerning a child.” We all know, we all understand... But every time when somebody breaks the silence with a loud ‘Poo…’ all sophistication goes for a toss!

Saif, Ranbir, Imran, Neil in 'The Italian Job' remake

By Subhash K Jha With American studios maintaining a hawk-eyed gaze over copyright infringement in Bollywood desi filmmakers are growing copyright savvy and looking for new ways of evading the floodlights. Health Care Tips Now Abbas-Mustan claim that their Italian Job won’t just be a remake of the the 2003 con caper directed by F Gary Gray but a “mix n match” version of both the 2003 film and the earlier 1669 film directed by Peter Collinson from which the 2003 film was remade. Explains Abbas, “Our producer Studio 18 have bought the rights of both the 1969 Michael Caine film and the 2003 film. We’re doing a mix n match job of Italian Job. We’re taking whatever elements we like from the two Hollywood films and putting them together in our own way.” In the past Abbas-Mustan have outright lifted Hollywood films like Consenting Adults (Kati Patang) like Disclosure (Aetraaz) and put them together without radical changes. Music Glossary “But this time we aren’t doing that, ” says Abbas currently scripting the Italy-dosa. “We want to turn the Italian Job into a total desi film.” Dental Glossary The vast cast is yet to be decided. But it’s reliably learnt that the director plans to cast Saif Al Khan, Ranbir Kapoor, Imran Khan, Shahid Kapoor and Neil Nitin Mukesh, among others.

Unveiled - Leading lady of Aladin, Jacqueline

By Joginder Tuteja It's time for the red carpet to be laid out. Aladin is aiming for a Diwali release and as the film hits the screens, Bollywood would also see the arrival of its 'most exotic' import ever - Jacqueline Fernandes. All set to regale the audience with a lethal mix of cute persona and some sensuality, Jacqueline is finally being unveiled by the makers of Aladin. "Well, the journey has just begun. Last one year was quite happening but now it is going to be even more exciting times with Aladin being round the corner", she says. Over the last few months, Jacqueline was closely guarded for all the right reasons. 2008 had seen quite some noise being made around the number of newcomer girls (Asin, Anushka) while Aladin was still quite some distance away. Real Estate Glossarry Says Sujoy Ghosh, the film's director and co-producer, "There was no point for anyone associated with the film to gaga over Jacqueline because of two major reasons. First and foremost she had just stepped into the industry and she wanted to focus on doing a good job in her debut film. Secondly, it was felt that her being 'exposed' to millions out there so soon would have resulted in an over exposure." The protective director goes on to add, "Since Jacqueline is one of the four major protagonists of the film, other than Amitabh Bachchan, Sanjay Dutt and Riteish Deshmukh, she has always been someone special. Now is the time for her to reach out to the world and I am sure Bollywood followers out there would be stunned with what they see of her." Jacqueline gets nostalgic while remembering the times she spent on the film's sets, "Playing Jasmine was all fun and frolic with just the right ingredients of quintessential Bollywood 'naach gaana' routine and countless romantic and dramatic moments. It couldn't have been a better start." Computer Glossary Considering the fact that 2009 is perking up now after a dry beginning, it only makes Jacqueline's arrival in the industry even more precious. An import from Sri Lanka who already has a beauty pageant crown in her kitty (she was Miss Sri Lanka 2006), Jacqueline has been academically inclined as well, as apparent from her degree in Media and Communications from Sydney, Australia. Ambitious to the core, she had once stated - "Being independent and accomplished was imperative to me and I always demanded the best of myself. Perfectionism is my strongest asset." That's something which is pretty much on display, as clear from her choice for her debut film Aladin which is a co- production of Eros and Sujoy's 'Boundscript' and stars none other than Amitabh Bachchan and Sanjay Dutt along with Riteish Deshmukh. Says Jacqueline while spreading out that million dollar smile of hers, "The way Riteish's character is fleshed out in the movie, it was all rather cute. However, nothing can beat the excitement of working with Mr. Bachchan and Mr. Dutt. In a way, they were just the antithesis of Riteish. I couldn't have been luckier."

Kareena Kapoor to interact with her fans on Facebook

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Kareena has never been net savvy. But thanks to the clamor for her glamour on social-networking sites, she has decided to get on the net. But just for a bit.

Boiiywood News

This week Kareena plans to give her fans on a hugely popular social-networking website (Facebook) a big surprise.

Kareena plans to get on the networking site for about 30 minutes "to say hello" to her fans. She may even break her resolve not to become a member of the networking site. And who knows, she may even get over her reservations about starting her own website.

Bollywood Movire Review

Says Kareena, "I've been repeatedly told that I've the maximum number of fans and well-wishers on Facebook. I could never find the time to connect with them. More importantly, I was too shy. I can't bring myself to answer over-specific questions on my activities, where I am, what I do, eat, etc."

It was Saif Ali Khan and director Imtiaz Ali who informed Kareena of the massive fan following she has on Facebook and how imperative it was for her to reach out to those trying to reach out through social networking.

"I now realize it's a whole large global community out there on the computer. I can't blog about my life. But I need to understand and connect with the internet community. In fact," reveals Kareena, "It was Saif who introduced me to the computer. He does practically all his work on the internet. He coaxed me into understanding the basics. And then I got hooked, though not to social networking because I'm too private a person to share my day-to-day movements and activities even with my closest friends."

Bollywood Hottest News

It was Imtiaz Ali who pointed out the importance of reaching out on the social networking site. "Imtiaz said the number of people on Facebook who put up my pictures and messages about me had to be seen to be believed. I'll now be going on Facebook in a few days to interact with my friends there."

Not that Kareena wants to be regular on social networking. "That's not me. But I respect and love the thousands of people who want to reach out to me through the internet."

'Short Kut' okay in U.K., dull in U.S.

- By Taran Adarsh, July 15, 2009 - 08:17 IST
The new release, SHORT KUT, has done marginally well in U.K., but given the number of screens, it should've fared much, much better. However, the business is below the mark in U.S... KAMBAKKHT ISHQ is maintaining very well in the three major markets. The 10-day total from U.K., U.S. and Australia is approx. Rs. 11.65 crores.

Weekend: July 10 - 12, 2009.

U.K. BOX-OFFICE

• KAMBAKKHT ISHQ [last weekend: No. 8, this weekend: No. 10]: In its second weekend, the film has collected £ 97,388 on 52 screens, with the per screen average working out to £ 1,873. Total: £ 5,43,833 [approx. Rs. 4.37 crores].



• SHORT KUT has debuted at No. 11 position. In its opening weekend, the film has collected £ 80,488 [approx. Rs. 64.64 lacs] on 34 screens, with the per screen average working out to £ 2,367.



• NEW YORK [last weekend: No. 15, this weekend: No. 20]: In its third weekend, the film has collected £ 19,349 on 13 screens, with the per screen average working out to £ 1,488. Total: £ 3,51,683 [approx. Rs. 2.82 crores].

Kambakkht Ishq glitters with Prime Focus' VFX

Riding high on its box office success, Akshay Kumar and Kareena Kapoor starrer Kambakkht Ishq (KI), one of the biggest openers in the history of Indian cinema, has much more to it than Bollywood masala and a star studded cast including Hollywood stars like Denise Richards, Sylvester Stallone, Holly Valance and others.

KI is an example of the ever-growing trend of Bollywood films embracing visual effects (vfx) with some incredible (invisible) visual effects by post-production house Prime Focus.

Ask director Sabbir Khan about the film's success and he says, "I feel euphoric. Nearly 150 films release every year and yet only a handful can earn the tag of being a 'super hit'. So, yes, it makes me feel very special that I could do that, and that too with my first film."

Speaking to Bollywood Hungama, Merzin Tavaria, Creative Director of Prime Focus and VFX Supervisor of KI shares, "Actually, if we look at KI, there is not much vfx in the movie but more of design elements and the effects which are required in the narrative of the film. These vfx shots helped us to manage the production and also to save the time of international starts while shooting,"

Real Estate Glossary

In this exclusive case study by Bollywood Hungama, we bring you some of the exciting shots executed by Prime Focus, courtesy Merzin Tavaria, Sabbir Khan and the producer, Sajid Nadiadwala.

Click on the thumbnails below to check out the shot breakdown:

Roadie Palak wants to Expose

Gurmeet Kaur aka Palak, one of the contestants of Sony Entertainment Television’s new reality show Iss jungle Se Mujhe Bachao wants to add skin-show to her infamous resume. The former Roadies participant was disappointed that she would not be able to wear short dresses or revealing clothes for Iss Jungle as they would be shooting in the Rain Forest. She also did not quite appreciate the tanned rugged look the participants are sporting in the promos. So it was no wonder that at a recent promotional photo-shoot Palak really freaked-out at the first chance she got to drop the drab clothes. Eager to show-off Palak got into the skimpiest dress she could lay her hands on, or should we say fitted into! The one opportunity Palak gets, she chose the shortest dress to wear. So much for being in a reality show! Will Palak the Punjabi fashion victim survive the ultimate challenge in the jungles of Malaysia??… We will soon know on “Iss Jungle Se Mujhe Bachao’, Monday – Thursday @ 10 p.m. and Fridays @ 9 PM only on Sony Entertainment Television

Aamir-Katrina to sizzles as Guru Dutt and Waheeda

The most gorgeous lady, Katrina Kaif and the hottest stud, Aamir Khan come together to recreate the magic of Guru Dutt and Waheeda Rehman on silver screen. The duo will be seen in a Guru Dutt biopic by Rakesh Om Prakesh Mehra. The yet untitled film explores the life and love of Guru Dutt. The shooting for the same is expected to begin from October. Aamir Khan donned the classic look of Guru Dutt and draws a lot of similarities by his dressing and hair style, while Katrina is looking an elegant reminiscence of Waheeda Rehman. Recently, a magazine unveiled the first peek-a-boo of the film where Aamir-Katrina strike a pose similar to that of Guru Dutt – Waheeda, from the movie Kaagaz Ke Phool. Though Guru Dutt’s Kaagaz Ke Phool failed at the box office but it did left an indelible mark on the mind of audience. Let’s see whether this film is able to recreate the magic of the golden era and one of its most prolific legends.

"Short Kut will satiate the taste buds of movie buffs" - Anil Kapoor

Short Kut - The Con Is On releases today after a minor hassle around the title copyright issues. All is well that ends well though as this Anil Kapoor production has now hit the screens. Joginder Tuteja catches up with the man at the hot seat, Anil Kapoor, and asks him about his new role as a producer and what made him for go for casting Arshad Warsi as a wannabe turned superstar in the film.

How is the new role of a film producer treating you?
The way my acting career has been over the years, I have always been in the capacity of an actor and very rarely looked at the production affairs. On the other hand, as a producer I have more participation in how a project is shaped and look after the entire scale on which the film has been set. When I come on the sets of a film where I am just an actor, I am a thorough professional while staying within my boundaries. I don't interfere in any other aspect of film making. However as a producer, I have the luxury to choose my director, actor, distributor etc. I make all the decisions that allows me to play multiple roles.

You started off with Gandhi My Father and have now moved on to Short Kut - The Con Is On. Was it a conscious decision to begin offbeat and then move into mainstream?
It all basically depends upon the material that I am getting. If I like a script which is really dramatic, I go for it. I look at it as whether the subject would make for a good film or a bad film. I don't look at it as a commercial v/s non-commercial affair. This was the case with Gandhi My Father as well where I fell in love with the story and the script. Feroz Khan (the director) has been a friend and I have always admired his work as a theatre director. This is what made me go for Gandhi My Father and frankly I didn't worry much around whether it would succeed at the box office or not.

What made you announce Short Kut - The Con Is On as your immediate next film?
Juts like in case of Gandhi My Father, in case of Short Kut - The Con Is On too it was the script that did all the talking. I loved the original Malayalam film and decided there and then that I had to make it. It is a story which is very mainstream and comes with huge entertainment potential. It will satiate the taste buds of movie buffs all over the world because such films cater to majority of segments of audiences. Moreover, I truly believed in the film's concept and was sure that a refined treatment would make it a hit amongst the masses.

Akshaye (Khanna) and Arshad (Warsi) return after years. Time for some more 'hulchul'?
Frankly speaking I hadn't seen Hulchul and had only caught the duo in trailers. They looked great together and I was comfortable having them on board since their roles are so opposite of each other in the film. Actually, both of them compliment each other; something you would realize once you see the film.

Time and again you have been heard appreciating your film's cast.
That's because it has indeed gone really well. In fact the best thing about Short Kut - The Con Is On is it's casting. I am very proud of the people I have roped in because Akshaye, Arshad and Amrita have been just bang on. All of them are so correct and I can't imagine anyone else playing these parts.

Apparently you were quite vocal about Arshad's performance after watching Lagey Raho Munnabhai.
That's right; I congratulated him soon after I saw the film.

What was it that went in favor of him being roped in as 'Raju' a.k.a. King Kumar in the film?
I just felt that I needed someone who had an image of basically someone who wasn't a quintessential hero-hero. I wanted to have someone who wants to be a hero, someone who has the potential of becoming a hero one day. Of course Arshad's trademark comic timing went in his favour too.

You just said that you didn't want someone who was a hero in true sense. Why?
That's plays Raju is someone who wants to be a hero! It's the character that we had to sell because there have been only few character actors in the past who have become heroes. There have been exceptions but quite far and few. This is why if we had cast someone who was a conventional hero material; it would have gone against the essence of our film. I wanted someone who could not look like a conventional hero; someone who is a little odd and still desperate.

Arshad is also heard as saying that he is the 'villain of the piece' in the film?
Arrey nahi, he is a lovable rogue in the film. Terming him as 'villain' will be too harsh a word (laughs)!

Shit, Michael Jackson is gone!

By Subhash K Jha Bollywood reacts to Michael Jackson’s death Minissha Lamba: “It’s devastating to know Michael Jackson is no more. He revolutionized pop music. It was sad to see someone who gave joy to millions around the world with his songs, go through so much in the last decade of his life. Destiny makes you the King, and then decides to snatch away your happiness. Shilpa Shetty: “I still can’t believe Michael Jackson is gone! When my Dad told me I thought he was joking. I’ve always been a huge fan of Michael. I’m shattered. I had booked tickets to watch his show at 02 in London. They got cancelled and re-scheduled. To call him an icon would be an understatement. I still can’t believe it! Urmila Matondkar: “There have been many many famous entertainers and there will be others. But none like Michael Jackson. He’s truly an inspiration to entertainers in every part of the world. His singing and dancing were beyond any language, culture caste or religion. No wonder he had fans in the biggest metros and remotest villages. Mithun Chakraborty: “He can never go. He will always be with us. He was the greatest ever. The God of dancing. Immortal Subhash Ghai: “Michael Jackson was a symbol of fire, passion and energy. He changed the way civilization looked at popular entertainment. The youth all over including India followed him. Anu Malik: “Michael Jackson the king of pop, the king of music, the king of kings was insulted and humiliated in his lifetime. They called him wacko jacko. They didn’t know, such a legend would never return to our world. The same people want to sing his praises now. MJ was a gentle soul, a remarkable musician, a true rock star. I want to remember him by his music. I am heartbroken by his death. And I’m amused how everyone is tripping over to praise this great soul. Maybe the soul of this great achiever rest in ever-lasting peace. Amrita Rao: “I’m a huge Michael Jackson fan. This news is devastating. He had the best body language ever. In ‘Thriller’ just his expressions and selfconfidence make him look like the most handsome man on earth. The world will miss him. And for many of us, it’s like losing a childhood friend.” Anushka Sharma: “Oh my God! I’m utterly shocked. Michael Jackson’s ‘Black Or White’ was one of the few western pop tunes I was introduced to in my early teens. We’ve lost a musical genius and a splendid performer. His music will live forever. He was undoubtedly a genius. Pritam Chakraborty: “It was so hard to believe! The first news flash this morning had a question mark. Is MJ dead? I hope he wasn’t. But he was. It’s one of the saddest days in world music. May his soul rest in peace. MJ is immortal. His legacy will linger luminously for lifetimes. Tusshar Kapoor: “It’s very depressing to hear about Michael Jackson’s death. I spent my childhood listening to his songs and watching his videos. He was my ultimate pop icon. His death makes me realize the hard uncertainties of life. Dino Morea: “It’s awful. I’ve been glued to CNN since morning. I’ve watched just about every video of his, heard and danced to every song. Heck, I even have scratches of his unreleased tracks! He was truly the legend, just about the greatest performer to date. I used to try to dance like him at every school and college party. I don’t think anyone can match Michael’s steps or stage presence. I don’t think there was any part of the globe that Michael didn’t reach with his music. I was to go for his concert in the UK next month. Aadesh Shrivastav: “His demise has left a void in the music industry that can never be filled. His music and dancing took stardom to another level. He was an incomparable performer. Asin: “Michael Jackson is a legend. I absolutely love his music and dance. His music defined a generation, just like Elvis Presley and the Beatles before him. ‘Heal The World’ is my favourite Michael Jackson track. It left an indelible imprint on my mind. This is is a big loss to all us MJ fans. I already miss him Sammir Dattani: “Shit, Michael Jackson gone! I was supposed to go for his concert which coincided with my sister’s graduation in London. Damn, now I’ll never see get to see the original moonwalker. I’ll just made do with Darsheel in Tare Zameen Par. Amrita Arora: “I’m hugely shocked and saddened. We’ve lost the world’s biggest and most beloved entertainer. Michael is dead. But his music will live forever. Malaika Arora: “I’m in total shock. For me MJ is the greatest, a true legend. The King will live on through his music. Himesh Reshammiya: “He was a legend and an inspiration for everyone in music. I think his popularity was unmatched. I truly pray for his soul to rest in peace.”

3 Idiots

Kareena Kapoor may have a big release round the corner (Kambakkht Ishq) but that hasn't deterred Bollywood's IT girl from finishing off her other pending assignments. Kareena was busy shooting most of last week with Aamir Khan for Rajkumar Hirani's 3 Idiots. The actors finished a major shooting schedule first in the cold climate of Ladakh and then even shot some vital portions in Delhi. What one can't miss noticing in theses images floating on the internet is Bebo's simple, bespectacled look, a complete opposite from her glamorous avatar in Kambakkht Ishq. She is also seen wearing a simple salwar kameez rather than any western outfit which she is more often seen in. As for Aamir, the actor seems to be in a light relaxed mood, sporting a light pink tee with blue jeans. 3 Idiots is based on Chetan Bhagat's much acclaimed novel '5 Point Someone' and also stars Sharman Joshi, R Madhavan, Mona Singh and Boman Irani in lead roles.

Akshay Kumar's message to Kambakht Critics

Akshay Kumar has never been Critics' favourite actor. So this time Khiladi Kumar ahs decided to connect with them as the influence the decision of an average moviegoer. In his latest blog he writes: Now that the mutliplex strike is over, I am a relieved man. The eight weeks between April 9 and June 5, 2009 were one of the darkest phases for the Indian film industry. We needed to address serious issues with the multiplexes; however, we also lost out precious revenue in this period. The movies are back but our worries as the film fraternity are far from over. Have you realised what the scenario will be in the next few months of 2009? Movies, big and small, will be jostling for space at the box office. I don’t know how many of these will get their rightful due because of the mad rush. There is a difference between a buffet and an a-la-carte meal. A buffet is not necessarily the best way to enjoy a meal. Likewise, a rush of movies at the theatres from now on could be like a buffet with the audience not being able to savour their meal. There are also two other issues that I must write about in the context of movies. One is about piracy; we lose on an average at least 35 per cent of our box office revenues to piracy. My sincere plea to movie-watchers in India and overseas is please watch our movies in theatres. Don’t watch pirated DVDs. My second request, please be clear about this — it’s a request, is to the critics. Hello, all critics — would you guys kindly consider bringing out your reviews after the first weekend? Okay, if that is too late, then, bring it out on a Saturday. Give us a clear Thursday / Friday to showcase our movies. What happens is — I have witnessed this personally, so I am saying it with full confidence — if a review is put up on a website or carried in a newspaper or shown on television on a Thursday / many times on the Friday that the movie opens, and if the movie is panned... then it affects the box office really badly. I witnessed a man from Kolkata telling his family to cancel 11 tickets of a recent movie that was panned by a critic on a Thursday. The man was saying, “We have booked tickets in advance. But this critic has panned it. Let us cancel the 11 tickets and go for an Italian meal instead. Why torture ourselves watching a movie that has got a one star rating!” There could be a domino effect once many such tickets are cancelled. Poor box office means less revenue for an industry that has already suffered a strike. I know the critics’ job is to inform a reader / viewer. I know the critics have a loyalty to only the reader / viewer. However, my appeal to critics is — if you can please hold your reviews for a day or two, let our movies breathe. We put in a lot of hard work and sweat into the movies and sometimes they are dismissed one day prior to the world release. If 35 per cent is lost to piracy, then the film industry loses at least 20 per cent revenue because of the reviews. Your pen is very powerful and a critic can make or break a movie. Ideally the industry and critics should work in tandem with each other. I’m hardly saying that the critic shouldn’t do his job. And, he has the freedom of speech — that is every Indian’s fundamental right — so I’m not even trying to tamper with that. My request as a film industry person — an actor first, now also a producer — is, to critics, to be slightly more responsible. Like I said again, this is an appeal. Courtesy: itimes.com

Adnan Sami: I was working with Michael & Janet

By Subhash K Jha First his father, and now fellow-musician Michael Jackson is gone in less than a week..This hasn't been a good time for Adnan Sami. "I was working on an album with Janet and Michael Jackson. I'm producing and composing the album. But now I wonder what happens to it!" wonders Adnan. Describing Michael whom Adnan met a number of times for the album as a childlike genius, Adnan says, "His life was troubled. But his music was his solace. Artistes who suffer always seek an escape route in their art. Ask me, I should know" When Adnan first received a phone call from Michael and the Jackson brothers they discussed Adnan's music in detail. "The Jacksons knew every detail about my songs. They had studied my music in detail. I listened quietly to them talk about my music. These were the same guys whose music I grew up." How did it happen? "Michael's brother Jermaine's wife Halima is from Afghanistan. For some time she lived in Chandigarh. She got acquainted with my music while in India and she took my music to LA and introduced her husband to it. And then Jermaine introduced Michael and Janet to my music." Adnan had three meetings with the the Jacksons in Los Angeles. "It was progressing slowly. They like to work at their own pace. No hurry. The album is like Motown-music-meets-world-music-meets-Indian -music. I've brought the Sarangi and the Tabla-Dholak into their music." It 's Adnan's first English-language album, and being produced by the Jacksons. Adnan is also singing one song in the album. Speaking of the Jacksons Adnan says, "They're very humble people. Always attentive to what I say, always open to innovations and suggestions. They recognized a component in my musical style, and that is this. I really like strong base lines in my songs. What they don't know is, that's something I learnt from the music of the Jacksons." This is the first full-fledged collaboration between an Asian musician and a major American musical icon. "I can't believe I'm actually working with the Jacksons. Without Michael it won't be the same. We've completed four songs…I'm really enjoying this. I realize I enjoy playback singing. But the independent albums are where I'm totally able to express myself."

Saif and Deepika to play in a celebrity cricket match for Love Aaj Kal

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The IPL in South Africa may just be the reason why the following news carries so much star power. 'Cricket Aaj Kal toh kaafi news mein hain.' But so is Imtiaz Ali's next biggie Love Aaj Kal, starring Saif Ali Khan and Deepika Padukone.

The film which highlights the difference between love today and love during the yesteryears is in for some good promotional activities we hear in the overseas. And what better way to promote your film when the whole world will be present in the U.K to watch the world's top cricketing geniuses battle it out in the T20 World Cup. Not to forget, India, the reigning champions will be the ones to watch out for. So when you have the cricketers, frenzied crowd, crisp warm weather and strawberries with cream, and well, Bollywood stars promoting their film, what more can you ask for?

But we did miss out the commentators, didn't we? We at Bollywood Hungama bring one for you, not from the cricketing world though...but from the filmy world. A reliable source has just confirmed the latest news from London that Deepika Padukone will be joining in the commentary team for next month's 'T20 World Cup' as a guest commentator. The actress who was previously linked with the likes of Indian cricketing heroes, M.S. Dhoni and Yuvraaj Singh will now be sharing the same field as them once the match begins. But we'll have to wait and watch whether her 'Love Aaj'- Ranbir Kapoor will be a mere spectator to this exciting event. That was match one.

Match two brings you a special celebrity cricket match with teams headed by Saif Ali Khan and Deepika Padukone which will be covered by the local and world journalists along the lines of Veteran (KAL) cricket team (1st & 2nd generations) Vs Novice (AAJ) cricket team (3rd and 4th generations). Again to wait and watch whether Rishi Kapoor and Ranbir Kapoor will play opposite each other in this much awaited cricket match. Our sources have confirmed that Deepika and Saif will be in London during the first week of June. Time for some commentary lessons and net practice Deepika! That's all we have from the centre.

DVD Reviews Delhi 6

MOVIE DETAILS

Cast: Abhishek Bachchan, Sonam Kapoor, Waheeda Rehman, Deepak Dobriyal and Rishi Kapoor
Director: Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra
Producer: Ronnie Screwvala and Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra
Music: A.R. Rahman
Lyrics: Prasoon Joshi

THE FILM

Before the release of Videsh - Heaven On Earth, if there was one movie that won hands down in terms of being the strangest and most exasperating affair of 2009, it was Delhi 6. The film had a 'bandar' as the central protagonist sans any head or tail. The film tried to be all intelligent and message oriented but in the final run, it failed on both the accounts. Also, throughout its two hour odd duration, it could never make up its mind around the genre it belonged.

Ok, so the makers may argue that the subject of Delhi 6 is such that it couldn't be categorised as per a genre. Well great, that's fine but only for the creative (?) brains that have gone into making the film. For an average audience which walks in to watch a movie like Delhi 6 that boasts of an 'A' star cast and production values, one does go in with certain expectations of a concrete storyline to be told. If there is no storyline then the treatment has to be engaging enough to keep the audiences entertained. And if treatment is also an issue for the entire duration of a film, then the last resort is presence of some non-stop gimmicks that could ensure some 'paisa-vasool' moments.

In case of Delhi 6, the movie failed on all accounts. Neither did the entire metaphor of 'kaala bandar' work (makers may come back and say that 'aajkal ki audience ko yeh movie samajh nahi aayi' but that's not really the case as there was no hidden treasure to be unearthed throughout the film's length) nor did a huge ensemble cast that gathered to get some magic rolling but succeeded only in bits and pieces and that too only in the first half.

In fact Delhi 6 too got beaten up most due to the horrible 'second half syndrome' as the film started meandering in all directions. 'Pyaar-mohabbat' between Abhishek Bachchan and Sonam Kapoor could hardly develop beyond a point, the story ceased to move forward even as Abhishek jumped from terrace to terrace in pursuit of a 'kati patang' and dozen odd other characters kept coming in and out of the scene. Deepak Dobriyal's 'jalebi-waala' act was fine but where was Rishi Kapoor gone after being his charming best in the opening reels of the film?

The worst is kept for the last 30-45 odd minutes of the film where the proceedings get truly unbearable. Introduction of a 'baba' who creates a rift between Hindus and Muslims appears to be totally unwarranted and this is the point where one starts wondering if Delhi 6 actually had everything bound, clear, checked and rechecked before it came on floors? The sequence of events from here keep taking the movie to an all time low and what hits most is Abhishek Bachchan's transition into a 'kaala bandar'. Oops, now where did this one come from? Hold on, there is one more place where you would repeat the same question. And that's the climax sequence where all of a sudden Amitabh Bachchan meets Abhishek in a 'Chandni Chowk' ishtyle heaven and shares 'jalebis' with him on a rooftop.

It's bad enough to make a monkey out of an audience!

PACKAGING

The DVD comes in a regular plastic case though it is better than the usual Moser Baer 'thin plastic case' that had almost become a trademark for cheap priced DVDs over the years

DURATION

The film's duration is 135 minutes

SPECIAL FEATURES

Now this is a real fast one that has been pulled on the DVD buyer. The DVD box proudly declares Delhi 6 to be arriving in a 2 DVD pack. However, there is a mere 10 minutes of content available in the second DVD where one gets to see the making of three songs - 'Masakali', 'Arzian' and 'Yeh Delhi Hai Mere Yaar'. Hardly interesting stuff even as Rahman and Prasoon give a few titbits around the conceptualisation of the three songs.

Other than this 10 minutes segment, there are 7-8 minutes more spent on a few promos of the movie followed by audience response to the film after it's release. One wonders that for these few minutes of extra software which would have easily fitted into the first DVD itself, why has a buyer been forced to spend some precious money on an additional DVD?

TECHNICAL DETAILS

- 16:9 Anamorphic Widescreen Presentation
- Subtitles in English
- Dolby Digital 5.1 and Stereo

PRICE

Rs. 149/=

CONCLUSION

2009 was seeing one of the most disastrous times at the box office when Delhi 6 had released. The industry was reeling with the collective failure of Chandni Chowk To China, Luck By Chance, Billu and Delhi 6 was being looked as the saviour of Bollywood. However, it only added to the woes of the industry and was yet another unwelcome addition to the heap of disappointments. With a narrative that is neither engaging nor entertaining, Delhi 6 remains to be an absolutely un-engaging, pointless and self-indulgent exercise.

Bollywood Stars who gave Voting Day a miss

Thursday (30^th April) saw quite a few Bollywood bigwigs take out time from their busy schedule to cast their vote for the Elections. The ballot centres in Bandra, Juhu and Andheri areas of Mumbai saw stars such as Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan, the Bachchan parivaar, Hrithik Roshan, Ranbir Kapoor, Rishi Kapoor, Sonam Kapoor, John Abraham, Vidya Balan, Farhan Akhtar etc. troop in to cast their vote. However, there were quite a few B-town celebs, who in spite of being pretty active in asking people to vote decided to give the V-Day (Voting Day) a miss themselves. Bollywood Hungama brings you a list of a few Bollywood stars 'Jo Bolte Kuch Hai Aur Karte Kuch Hain'

Kareena Kapoor

Kareena was part of the special video created by Karan Johar and Tarun Mansukhani encouraging citizens to go and vote. However, when the V-day came, Bebo was nowhere in the picture. Apparently, Kareena is shooting for Karan Johar's production along with Saif Ali Khan and Vivek Oberoi in the US of A and hence couldn't make it. Well, that certainly doesn't count as an excuse cos if Aamir and Shah Rukh could fly down from US and South Africa respectively for casting their Vote, Kareena surely could have. This is one Tashan of Bebo which failed to impress us one bit.

Shahid Kapoor

Kareena's once-upon-a- time 'good friend' Shahid Kapoor also didn't make it to cast his Vote and this despite him being in town. We really don't know the reason why but considering Shahid's 'good friend' Priyanka Chopra was also missing, we cant help but wonder if they were upto something Chup Chup Ke.

Priyanka Chopra

Priyanka Chopra was full of emotions encouraging people to go and vote in the special video created by Karan Johar and Tarun Mansukhani. However, when the V-Day came, the actress was conspicuous by her absence. PC…we all are keen to know more on What's your Reason rather than What's Your Raashee?

Salman Khan

Sallu was here, there and everywhere during the pre-election campaigning; hence it was indeed extremely surprising that the actor after encouraging people to go and Vote decided to give V-day a miss himself. The actor apparently was busy shooting in London for his film Veer at a time when he was most 'Wanted' in Mumbai to cast his vote.

Imran Khan

It was Imran Khan who came up with the idea of making a special video asking people to vote. Imran along with Karan Johar and Tarun Mansukhani gathered some of B-town's biggest stars for this initiative but when it was his time to Vote, Imran himself couldn't get his finger inked. The Reason: Imran was not eligible as he is an American citizen. Poor Imran indeed couldn't practice what he preached so hard.

Preity Zinta & Shilpa Shetty

Bollywood beauties Preity Zinta and Shilpa Shetty also didn't make it to cast their vote. They were busy cheering their respective teams 'Kings XI Punjab' and 'Rajasthan Royals' at the on-going IPL matches in South Africa. Looks like they didn't realize that the opportunity to vote comes only once in 5 years unlike the IPL which is an annual event

Deepika Padukone and Asin

The South Indian babes Deepika Padukone and Asin couldn't vote in Mumbai as Deepika is originally from Bangalore while Asin is from Kerala. Hope these two beauties at least have voted in their respective home town.

Akshay Kumar

Akki was among the other B-town celebs who gave Voting a miss. The star was busy shooting for Priyadarshan's film De Dhana Dhan in Singapore. Akki when you can travel from Chandni Chowk to China in 3 hours you surely could have come down from Singapore to Mumbai and exercised your right to vote as a responsible citizen.

Ajay Devgan and Kajol

Probably the biggest shocker comes in the form of Ajay Devgan and Kajol who were busy holidaying in Goa and didn't find it necessary to come down and cast their vote. Ajay what's the point in doing a film on Rajniti when you can't even come and vote for the leaders in whose hands lies the future of our country?

I am incapable of writing an autobiography: Amitabh Bachchan

Blogging seems to have become a leading interest in your life. When and how did you develop an interest in it? It is not a leading interest, but one thing I can safely say blogging seeks my involvement every day. I had heard of the concept, but had no idea what it was and what it entailed. I heard of Aamir having one and during a discussion with BigAdda who were designing my website, I enquired after it. They happily put the whole concept together within days, trained me on some essentials for its operation and I made a soft beginning. It has been most enlightening since. What is it about blogging that you like the best? The ability to convey individually and personally my feelings to the reader, secure in the thought that it shall reach them without any corruption. You are an extremely private person. And yet you seem happy sharing your day-to-day activities with your bloggers' community. How and why did that happen? I think this is a completely erroneous notion in the minds of those that form opinions on me. What may I ask, leads one to believe that I am an ‘extremely private person’ ? Every day of my life for the last 40 years I have been going in front of the camera and exposing, or at least trying to expose, every possible emotion or attitude that I possess. Actors are indeed as transparent as they can possibly be when in front of the lens. You come to know how they speak, how they laugh, how they cry, how they dance and run and emote and.... What more would you want to know about them to declassify them from privacy? I lead a normal life, just as any other. If the media is not aware of it, or has failed to discover it, which in today’s very intrusive environment I find difficult to believe, then the onus is on them. Just because media is unable to gather much about you publicly, does not mean that you are private. How close do you feel to these faceless friends who visit you regularly on the blog? ‘Faceless’ is a harsh term. I refer to them as my ‘extended family’. They confide in me. They show affection and concern. They get upset at times and reprimand me. They share their dreams and ambitions with me. They seek answers and opinions from me. They show respect to me as an elder. They abuse me and most importantly, they miss me when I am not there on time. Are not all these wonderfully domesticated attributes ? And now very soon my server BigAdda is developing software when my readers will be able to put up their photograph on the blog against their name. So they shall no longer be ‘faceless’. Also as we go along, due to the massive patronage in numbers from the readers, many more exciting features are being developed to bring them closer to me. We already have the MoBlog feature functioning, which enables me to write onto the blog through my mobile. And soon I shall have the facility to be able to record on blog with my voice, or dictate a message to them and then finally for them, in time, to be able to communicate their response to me via the mobile. The numbers are quite phenomenal – 25, 000 number of visits per day, and over 100, 000 page views per day. Multiply and do some mathematics on this from April 2008, every day and the figure is quite amazing. So this shall become eventually a huge exercise in communication management !! My extended family extends further !! Are there any special friends /fans on the blog? To me they are all special. Each one of them. Unique and sincere in whatever they express. You've certainly enriched their lives by your presence. How have your blogging buddies enriched your life? Brilliant question !! And one that I am so happy to answer. They enrich my life by their honesty and frankness. By pulling me out of my closet at times and showing me a mirror. By critically analysing events and moments. By educating me on my faults. By acclaiming creativity, not just mine but wherever they see it ; a director, a film, an artist a colleague they admire and appreciate, or do not. A moment in time which requires attention and comment. Just such a vast library of information and expression. Some possess absolutely astonishing ideas and vocabulary. Distinct and classified. Others bring forth their personal problems and expect nothing more than a patient ear. Its like being in a closed room with each one of them. I follow them. At times correct myself through what they suggest. I disagree with them and explain why. A most enriching exercise all of it. Whether or not I enrich them is really for them to answer. Your command over the language is being oohed and aahed about. Has blogging polished up your writing skills? I have no writing skills. I write what comes to my heart when the computer is ready to digitize my thoughts. The ‘oohing’ and ‘aahing’ is more perhaps, I am certain, because of my inadequacy in the craft. Do you feel liberated of the need to put your thoughts and voice across on the media? Yes I do. Liberated to give my expression as opposed to that which is perceived. Liberated to contradict a mischievous and evil accusation. Liberated to be able to inform in the correctness of things. Liberated to spread the literary genius of my Father; a due that poets and writers never ever achieve in their lifetime. Liberated from the fear of that sensationalised ‘cut and paste’ headline the following morning, the following week or following month. Liberated to share a private moment with those that understand and show sympathy. Liberated to have a voice without ulterior benefit. Liberated to feel the warmth and love from those that express, instantly. Liberated to construct a passage into my heart and head. Liberated to be able to challenge. Liberated to accept defeat and to seek the strength to overcome it. Liberated to criticize criticism and to acknowledge acclaim. And finally, liberated to stand up to ‘wretched’ puerile kindergarten rhymed opinion makers and be able to exercise the constitutional right of every living Indian ; the freedom of my expression. Finally, has blogging freed you of the inhibitions regarding your privacy? Are you now more inclined to write an autobiography? I am incapable of writing an autobiography !

Salman Khan Fined 20Lakkhs For Damage

Six days after ordering Bollywood star Salman Khan to pack up filming of Veer at Amber Fort here, the Rajasthan high court on Thursday allowed him to complete shooting in four days, after paying Rs20 lakh as damages for harm caused to the protected monument.

The Rajasthan HC has allowed Salman Khan to complete shooting of Veer, after paying Rs 20 lakh as damages for harm caused to the protected monument.

The court, which had slammed state officials for 'greed' and 'madness' that had created havoc at the 16th century monument during shooting, said the compensation would include ex gratia for 15 people injured in the wall collapse at the fort during shooting on February 12.

The order was passed by a division bench of acting chief justice RC Gandhi and justice MN Bhandari.

"I am a Thief, so what?" :Mahesh Bhatt

The panel discussion at FICCI Frames had an interesting debate titled Cut Copy Paste To Indian Taste which was attended by leading Bollywood names such as Dibakar Banerjee, Rohan Sippy, Imtiaz Ali, Kabir Khan and Mahesh Bhatt.

The discussion focussed on the burning question 'do we have a dearth of creative talent in our country?' and naturally the prickly issue of plagiarism reared its ugly head more than once.

"The topic is itself not an original idea and by the end of it we will get into a wrestling match," said filmmaker Imtiaz Ali.

Akshay Kumar and Aishwarya Rai bestowed with Padma Shri honour

2009 may not have begun on a good note for Akshay Kumar, what with the debacle of CC2C, but Republic Day (Jan 26) brought in some good news for the superstar. Akshay Kumar was awarded the Padma Shri by the Govt. of India for his contribution to cinema.

Apart from Akshay, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan was also the proud recipient of the Padma Shri, regarded as one of the top civilian honors in the country.

Akshay Kumar may not have won many awards in his illustrious career but this honor coming from the Govt. of India surely means a lot to the 'Kinng' of Bollywood. As for Aishwarya, she has made the entire Bachchan parivar proud with this achievement. After Shri. Harivanshrai Bachchan, Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bachchan, Aishwarya becomes the 4th family member of the Bachchan parivar to receive the Padma Shri.

Besides Akshay and Ash, veteran actress and dancing queen of yesteryears Helen was also bestowed with the Padma Shri for her contribution to art and cinema.

From the field of music, playback singers Kumar Sanu and Udit Narayan, Ghazal singer Penaaz Masani and music composer Pandit Hridaynath Mangeshkar also made it to the list of Padma Shri awardees this year.

Delhi 6

Cast: Abhishek Bachchan, Sonam Kapoor, Waheeda Rehman, Om Puri, Amitabh Bachchan Directed by: Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra Delhi 6 is a black comedy that exposes people's hypocrisy. In today's world, we are often quick to judge people, but if we look at ourselves very closely, we often find that we're not being fair to others. Delhi 6 revolves around Roshan, a young American boy of Indian origin. He comes to India for the first time, to drop off his ailing grandmother. She wants to die in her own country, and so prepares for the inevitable. Having led a western lifestyle, an America-born Roshan is unaware of the sights and sounds, the food and culture, the religion and beliefs that make up Indian society. After arriving in India, he engages with his grandmother's neighbourhood. He soon mixes and becomes part of the community. But little does Roshan know that this jovial and gregarious group of people have another side to them - they have decided to take advantage of Roshan's naive nature. The story is shown against the backdrop of the ancient city of Delhi (which is totally different from New Delhi). The city is almost a character in itself, representing the chaos of India, the people, their religions and their beliefs. The pin code of this old city is 110006. With pride and love they call it Delhi 6. The film puts across a message that we are quick to judge others, without seeing our own weaknesses. Delhi 6 is directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra and could very well prove one of the biggest movies of 2009.

Luck by Chance

Cast: Hrithik Roshan, Farhan Akhtar, Rishi Kapoor, Konkona Sen Sharma, Isha Sharwani, Dimple Kapadia, Juhi Chawla, Sanjay Kapoor, Aly Khan Lyrics: Javed Akhtar Music: Shankar, Eshaan & Loy Producers: Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar Director: Zoya Akhtar Sona (Konkona) arrives in Bombay with dreams of becoming a film star. Wide eyed and ambitious, she does whatever it takes to make it. She lives on her own in a rented flat, spending her time with loyal friends whose lives are also entwined with Bollywood - each one of them in search of a bigger dream. Vikram (Farhan) has just moved to the city, leaving the comforts of his parents' Delhi home. He is helped by Abhimanyu (Arjun Mathur), a friend working for a television station, who puts Vikram up during his initial struggle. Vikram is also used to getting what he wants and is smart enough to know when to demand it. Luck By Chance Sona begins to enjoy Vikram's attention and affections. They soon develop a romantic relationship. Rolly (Rishi kapoor) is a successful, though superstitious, producer who only works with the biggest stars. He's making a potential blockbuster, launching Nikki Khurana, the 18-year-old daughter of 70s superstar, Neena. The hero of the film, Zaffar Khan (Hrithik) is Rolly's favourite superstar. He was launched by Rolly and went on to become a huge draw at the box office. The wheels of fate continue to spin favourably for Vikram when havoc spreads on the sets of producer Rommy Rolly's new film. Vikram is called in for an audition and makes the most of his opportunity. Whether he becomes a successful movie star or defeated in his desperate attempt, forms the crux of this colourful Hindi musical. Veteran Bollywood actor Rishi Kapoor will be seen as a film producer, while Juhi Chawla plays his wife. Dimple Kapadia will also be seen in a pivotal role. A galaxy of Bollywood stars are said to make a special appearance in a song sequence very similar to the one in Om Shanti Om. These include Shah Rukh Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Rani Mukerji, Aamir Khan, Salman Khan and Shilpa Shetty. Zoya Aktar makes her directorial debut with Luck By Chance, while her brother, Farhan Aktar plays the lead. The movie is predicted to take the box office by storm. This is mainly due to its unusual storyline, the use of Farhan Akhtar in the lead and the presence of a galaxy of stars in a special song sequence.

Raaz Ki Baat: Coming soon, Raaz 3

By Subhash K Jha Sequels and their sequels are here to stay. First Munnabhai and Golmaal, now there's Raaz which threatens to turn into a Raaz-ma-taz, what with the second part of the Bhatt's spook saga getting an unexpectedly solid opening. Emran Hashmi who has been lying low during the publicity, thanks to all the focus on the real-life Kangana-Adhyayan pair, says he feels vindicated by the audiences' response. "My wife kept telling me I should try the genre. I had never done horror before. It's believed in the trade that horror films open well and then soon fizzle out. But then it was also believed that a film looking at the seamier side of cricket (Jannat) would never do well. I like to walk the lonely path. That's why you don't see me at parties and functions. Maybe that's why I play the part of the loner and watch another guy take away the girl I love," Emran chuckles drawing attention to his loser-lover's role in Gangster, Awaarapan and now Raaz. And now Emran is all set to return to Raaz. After the encouraging opening the team of Mahesh and Mukesh Bhatt, director Mohit Suri and Emran met to discuss the third Raaz movie. "Yes we're on," says Emran. "The third part will be directed by Mohit. And I'll play the lead. The rest of the details are yet to be decided. The cast of the second Raaz film was totally new. And I think I'm going to be the only actor common to Raaz 2 and 3." He says he didn't feel left out of the publicity. "Kangana and Adhyayan were a real-life couple. I can't concoct an affair just to be noticed. I was confident my work would speak for itself. Sure enough I believe people clap when I on screen the first time. I do have fan base, though it might be small." With two successes Jannat and Raaz 2 Emran feels secure enough to start a family. "We're trying for a baby and we should be parents by next year. One is never prepared for fatherhood. And if I wait to be fully prepared it will never happen. But I'm getting into the mindset now."

4 reasons why 'Raaz TMC' worked

I want to pose this question to lots of film producers out there who, for some strange reason, shy away from making horror films. Why doesn't Bollywood churn out horror films like the East and West do with amazing regularity? In the 1970s and 1908s, the genre was limited to Ramsay brothers and Mohan Bhakri. The low-cost films never had a dearth of buyers [yes, the distributors would pick up the rights the moment Ramsays announced them] and the success ratio of horror films was quite strong too.

With Ramsays deciding to try their luck on the small screen, the genre was as good as forgotten, till Ramgopal Varma decided to give it a try with BHOOT [almost a decade after he attempted RAAT]. Yet, the genre never took off, like comedy films after David Dhawan's AANKHEN and Rajkumar Hirani's MUNNABHAI MBBS did.

Last year, RGV's PHOONK and Vikram Bhatt's 1920 were well-received, while the response to the new release, RAAZ - THE MYSTERY CONTINUES, is equally strong. In fact, the distributors were so convinced of its prospects that they decided to give it a wide release [almost 900 screens in India], which speaks for itself.

Ample reasons why RAAZ - THE MYSTERY CONTINUES had a great start…
* The Bhatts are synonymous with qualitative films. Their small, low-cost films have big stories to tell. That's Reason No. 1 for the film to open well.
* The music in their films has always worked to their advantage. Right from AASHIQUI to DIL HAI KE MAANTA NAHIN, from RAAZ, MURDER and GANGSTER to AWARAPAN, JANNAT and RAAZ - THE MYSTERY CONTINUES, the movies have been embellished with a lilting score.
* The genre. Horror films have a good market and the youth especially throngs the cineplexes if the film has the right amount of thrills and chills.
* Emraan Hashmi. He has developed a sizable fan-following amongst the young brigade. Of late, the fans have only multiplied, courtesy films like AWARAPAN, JANNAT and now RAAZ - THE MYSTERY CONTINUES.

Also, the release timing was perfect. A 4-day weekend is every film-maker's dream and if it happens, it's a bonus. Of course, the merits count too, else even a 5-day weekend wouldn't help. In this case, the 4-day figures are impressive and RAAZ - THE MYSTERY CONTINUES is already on the right track -- the track that leads to success.

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SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE is having a dream run in America, U.K. and Australia and everyone was hopeful that the Danny Boyle film would strike gold in India too. The film started slow, but the collections have shown an upward trend at major plexes across major stations.

According to an official statement received by this writer from Fox Star Studios, SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE has grossed over Rs. 13.5 crores in its opening weekend across 351 screens in India. Good!

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AASMA, released alongside RAAZ - THE MYSTERY CONTINUES and SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE, was relegated to the backseat completely. The film wasn't in the public eye, in the first place.

Raaz - The Mystery Continues

By Taran Adarsh

Rating: ***1/2

The team behind Raaz - The Mystery Continues have often clarified that it's not a sequel to RAAZ, one of the most interesting cinematic experiences, besides being the biggest Hit of that year. Yet, you cannot but draw parallels with the first film of the franchise.

Horror as a genre hasn't been tapped to the optimum in India. We've witnessed spooky fares in the past and some of them have succeeded in making you break into a cold sweat (BHOOT stands tall in this list). Last year's PHOONK and 1920 were scary movies as well.

There's tremendous curiosity to watch Raaz - The Mystery Continues, but does it scare the living daylights out of you? Fortunately, yes!

The story (Mohit Suri) is absorbing and Mohit treats the subject like a veteran, as if he knows the genre very well. There're moments that make your heart beat faster, you watch the events with eyes and jaws wide open.

Sure, there're blemishes as well, but they don't overpower the plusses or make you change your opinion about the film. While the beginning and the middle of the film is engrossing, it's the end that could've been better thought of.

Wanna get scared? Wanna get goose pimples? Buy the ticket for Raaz - The Mystery Continues pronto. It lives up to the hype and expectations completely.

A brooding artist Prithvi (Emraan Hashmi) experiences mysterious and distressing visions about Nandita (Kangna Ranaut), a woman he has never met, while he paints on canvas. Intrigued by these visions, Prithvi tracks her down and warns her that these are not merely paintings of her, but accidents that are waiting to happen.

At first, Nandita refuses to believe him and dismisses him as an eccentric stalker. However, the striking resemblance between Prithvi's paintings and the near-death incidents in her life is hard to ignore.

Now, one of Prithvi's paintings has revealed her as dead. The only way she can change her fate is to unravel this mystery with his help, at the risk of alienating herself from her boyfriend, Yash (Adhyayan Suman). But he refuses to believe in Prithvi's premonitions. Will Nandita risk her love and her life to unravel this mystery?

Most of us have heard, witnessed or perhaps had a first-hand experience of supernatural. The present-day generation may, perhaps, term it as wild imagination or hallucination, while the believers may have their point of view. Mohit and screenplay writer Shagufta Rafique's characters in Raaz - The Mystery Continues are believers and non-believers, both.

Mohit smartly builds up the atmosphere. Sample these: Emraan and Kangna's first encounter at a mall and minutes later, inside an elevator; the New Year bash when Kangna is 'attacked' by spirits; Kangna's experience in her bathtub and also when she looks at the mirror; Kangna almost jumping off a cliff; the highpoint sequence, when angry bulls attack Emraan and Kangna. Incredible sequences all! Mohit has handled the most difficult portions with panache.

However, the entire flashback part, towards the pre-climax, is not as convincing. The ending too could've been better in terms of writing, although Mohit has filmed it exceptionally well.

Mohit's choice of the subject as also the actors is right. This is, without doubt, his finest effort to date. Shagufta's screenplay is watertight at most times. Like always, the Bhatts come up with a lilting musical score and at least two songs -- 'Soniyo' (Raju Singh) and 'Maahi' (Sharib-Toshi) -- are first-rate compositions. Ravi Walia's cinematography is up to the mark. The effects are impressive.

On the acting front, both Emraan and Kangna vie for top honours. Emraan is excellent. He conveys a lot through facial expressions and that's the sign of a proficient actor. He's just getting better and better with every film. Kangna is top notch.

After FASHION, this one's another power-packed performance from the actress. Adhyayan Suman is super-confident and registers a strong impact, especially towards the climax. He shows promise. Jackie Shroff is quite okay in a brief role.

On the whole, Raaz - The Mystery Continues is rich in the horror quotient and that is one of its major USPs, besides the highly competent performances by its principal cast and a lilting musical score.

At the box-office, this one will continue the winning streak of Mahesh Bhatt and Mukesh Bhatt's Vishesh Films. The 4-day weekend (Monday, January 26 in a holiday) will only cement its status further. Go for it!