Archive for Sid author photo

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March 6th, 2008

Man this guy has some decent movies in hand !

Midday

Ranbir on Deepika

Author: Subhash K Jha Date: 07 Mar 2008

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February 17th, 2008

Are you ready for some HR Magic once again ;-)

http://www.indiafm.com/movies/mstills/13690/index.html

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February 17th, 2008

Dedicated to Nitesh :-)

Akshay Kumar to film action scenes on The Great Wall Of China with Kill Bill’s Villain Gordon Lieu Click here to add this article to My Clips

By Subhash K. Jha, February 16, 2008 - 13:28 IST

Nikhil Advani left for Shanghai on Monday, Jan 28, to shoot for the action opus Chandni Chowk To China. “We’ve story-boarded the entire film. The action-comedy is now coming to life. And the big news is that this would be the first film to be shot on Beijing’s Great Wall Of China. Roger Yuan from Shanghai Knights will be one of Akshay’s adversaries. But the main villain is being played by Gordon Lieu of Kill Bill Part 2.”

“Akshay Kumar will be performing huge action scenes on the Great Wall Of China. In terms of action we want to take Bollywood to another level with this one,” informs Nikhil. A romantic song featuring Akshay and Deepika Padukone may also be filmed in around the Wall. “But the space for love in the plot is between the action and the comedy. The romance here has a different flavor. We finish the film in four weeks at a stretch,” warns Nikhil before taking off to China. Deepika has many difficult stunts to perform. While Akshay has been training for his action scenes, Deepika who has been shooting with Ranbir Kapoor in Australia returned on Sunday to join the unit in China. “In October and November she trained for her share of the martial arts. She needs to brush up her martial arts training. All her songs are ready and choreographed. So now that she’s back she just has to start rehearsing,” informs Nikhil.

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February 14th, 2008

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Mixed results

February 14, 2008 - 08:44 IST

The cold wave coupled with the ongoing cricket matches is taking a toll on film business. The occupancy at single screens/movieplexes has fallen to a new low, with films running to almost empty halls during evening and night shows. But you can’t blame the weather conditions or any sport only for making a dent in business. Most movies don’t have the stamina to stand on their feet beyond the opening weekend.

Last week’s SUPER STAR was a good idea gone wrong. Despite its actor [Kunal Khemu] and director [Rohit Jugraj] putting their best efforts and the producers [Shree Ashtavinayak Cinevision] going out of their way to promote the film, SUPER STAR lacked the meat to sustain audience interest. Clearly, the writing was the culprit here.

There have been instances of films starting slow, but gathering speed gradually, but the public response to SUPER STAR sent out negative signals on Day 1 itself. No wonder, the film fell on Day 2 [ideally, it should've been on an upswing], while Day 3 was at par with Day 1.

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February 4th, 2008

Ghai confirms Yuvraaj for 24th October ! So till now its Yuvraaj and Srk / Adi movie.

Subhash Ghai’s next? Click here to add this article to My Clips

By Taran Adarsh, February 5, 2008 - 08:26 IST

Subhash Ghai launched KARZ and also founded Mukta Arts on 24th October, 1978. Thirty years later, on 24th October this year, the Showman will showcase his new film YUVRAAJ to the global audience. “Yes, I’ve decided to release YUVRAAJ on this date. It’s my most ambitious venture so far,” Ghai beams proudly.

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February 3rd, 2008

It’s on-screen sparks for Bachchan-Sarika

Author: Subhash K Jha Date: 03 Feb 2008

For the first time, Amitabh Bachchan is being paired opposite Sarika in Shoojit Sircar’s untitled film (earlier called Shoebite), the shooting for which is on in Shimla. The news is that the Big B was somewhat concerned about the absence of a suitably strong and charismatic co-star.

Apparently, Bachchan also wanted to be paired opposite Sarika after her bravura performance in Parzania. The opportunity came when Tabu said no to Shoojit Sircar’s project.

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February 3rd, 2008

Aamir needs time to get back in shape

Author: Upala KBR Date: 02 Feb 2008

With Taare Zameen Par and the yet-untitled Ghajini remake getting delayed the actor has more time to work out his 6-pack abs

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January 31st, 2008

Domestic B.O.: From bad to worse!

January 31, 2008 - 09:05 IST
Out of the frying pan, it’s straight into the fire. That’s the state of the industry currently. The dry run at the box-office continues non-stop, the latest ‘casualty’ being SUNDAY. Why are people shying away from theatres? Is it due to the cold wave? Or is it because they aren’t excited about films? Whatever the reasons, the business has suddenly turned ice-cold. Post WELCOME and TAARE ZAMEEN PAR, the graph continues to slide downwards.

What wrong with SUNDAY? It’s a well-made, entertaining joyride. But the 30% - 40% opening was simply unexpected. A very prominent distributor/exhibitor feels [and rightly so!] that the movie-going segment that favors movieplexes today is the youth and Ajay Devgan’s popularity has declined over the years in this segment. Partly because Ajay has been seen in similar kind of movies/roles [serious].

Ajay needs to experiment with romance and comedy — something that Akshay realized a few years ago and changed lanes quickly. Often labeled a ’stunt hero’ not too long back, Akshay is now considered a romantic hero who works big time in comedies. That, in turn, has resulted in his ratings soaring upwards, nationally and internationally. This is what I also conveyed to Rohit Shetty, director of SUNDAY, who also happens to be a close friend of Ajay’s.

SUNDAY picked up on Friday evening, shot upwards on Saturday [26th January was a National holiday], was on the plus side on Sunday, but Monday onwards, has registered a steep fall. Frankly, SUNDAY deserved a better fate and a better run. The only hope is that the coming days aren’t really crowded with biggies. There’s JODHAA AKBAR on 15th February. Till then, SUNDAY can catch up if the audience gets into the mood of visiting theatres.

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December 18th, 2007

4 Stars!!

Link

Come to think of it, after two back-to-back hits [RANG DE BASANTI, FANAA], Aamir Khan could’ve given a positive nod to any masala flick and chosen to work with anyone he desired. But he preferred to make a film on a dyslexic kid, make him the focal point of the story and don three caps — producer, actor and director.

At the very outset, let’s make one thing clear. TAARE ZAMEEN PAR isn’t one of those films that merely entertains, but also enlightens. TAARE ZAMEEN PAR is one film that makes you peep into a child’s mind and how some parents, in their pursuit to make them ’stronger’ academically, forget that there’s hitherto untapped talent that needs to be nourished and encouraged.

TAARE ZAMEEN PAR drives home a strong message, making you empathize with the kid, compelling you to draw parallels with your life, making one realize that some of the renowned geniuses were once scoffed at, but the world had to bow down to their intellect later.

Write your own movie review of Taare Zameen Par
Sure, TAARE ZAMEEN PAR boasts of a story that strikes a chord, but most importantly, it has been treated with such sensitivity and maturity that you’re left shell-shocked in amazement by the sheer impact it leaves at the end of this 18 reeler.

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December 13th, 2007

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Big B still busy to meet Aamir

Author: Shaheen Parkar Date: 14 Dec 2007

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December 11th, 2007

http://www.indiafm.com/features/2007/12/11/3347/index.html

By IndiaFM News Bureau, December 11, 2007 - 16:20 IST

The year 2007 has seen many promising newcomers like Ranbir Kapoor, Sonam Kapoor, Ruslaan Mumtaz, Neil Mukesh and Deepika Padukone make their mark in Bollywood. Come 2008 and the first few weeks of the New Year itself would see yet another promising actor making his debut. The man in question is Nikhil Dwivedi, who stars in the film My Name is Antony Gonsalves opposite Amrita Rao. The film would be directed by E Niwas.

On being asked how it felt to be the first debutant of the New Year, Nikhil seemed pretty confident and replied, “You can’t attach calendars to these things. All of us are there in a common time zone. In the end, the hardworking people who are backed by their destinies will stay.”

Tell him that expectations are high since the movie is being backed by Shah Rukh Khan’s Red Chillies Entertainment and Nikhil clarifies, “Red Chillies’ interest in the film is something which is very much from the outside. They have been very kind to lend us office support, thereby giving shape to our project. It remains at that and there is nothing more to it. Its not like Red Chillies is producing the film or launching me.”

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November 26th, 2007

http://www.mid-day.com/hitlist/2007/november/167389.htm

More Controversy for Aamir Khan ? :-)

Bachchan reacts to Khan’s statements

guess who’s over the top! Amitabh Bachchan

Aamir Khan’s statements in a recent interview about Black hasn’t gone down well with Amitabh Bachchan. Here, he talks about Saawariya, his Black director, Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Aamir’s films…

What did you think of your Black director’s Saawariya?
Saawariya was poetry on celluloid. An exquisitely presented Broadway-styled musical set within Indian sentiments. It boldly defied the routine format of escapist commercial fare…. a malaise that all our films have come to be so doggedly accused of.
It’s daring and original and with such a high quotient of aesthetics, beauty and form!

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November 18th, 2007

This is the first time I have seen a script, thought others might be interested.

http://passionforcinema.com/wp-content/uploads/_scripts/No_Smoking_fp_owxty000.swf

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October 17th, 2007

http://www.indiafm.com/features/2007/10/16/3132/index.html

Blog: Leadership Lessons from Lagaan

By IndiaFM News Bureau, October 16, 2007 - 08:31 IST

Leader is one who takes up missions, which are challenging. Is one who is passionately involved in his pursuit to accomplish his mission? A determination to make the passion reflect in practice. A torchbearer who not only knows the direction but also courageously copes up with uncertainty of finding the right path. Conviction to conquer is palpably visible in him. He knows it is he who has to take the initiate and institutionalise the team essentially to accomplish a mission. A faith to succeed only resides in the heart and mind of a leader, which others cannot sense it or see it. The dexterity of a leader lies in mobilizing the fragmented skills and latent talents of his team members.

What was demonstrated in the movie Lagaan was Aamir Khan as a leader with passion and determination could subtly show the imperative traits of a successful leadership. A team member (Kachra, the sweeper) was crippled, Aamir’s observation made him identify the latent talent in a disabled untouchable. The entire village was hostile with his decision of the inclusion of untouchable cripple in the game of cricket. As a leader he was able to spot the talent and place it appropriately in his game plan. Another team member (Bhura, the murgiwalaa) had spent sizeable portion of his life in hounding behind the hens and catching them with perfection. He saw his quick reflection when this person caught the ball, which nobody even thought of it. A dumb member (Bagha, the mute temple drummer) who was strong and stout, the leader could think of how to channelise his physical power into constructive contribution to the team. A leader has to keep his ego and pride in isolation when on a march to achieve the mission. Another member (Goli, the farmer with a larger piece of land) was stubborn against the participation to take up the challenge. Aamir Khan knew this man’s attachment to his land. He could identify the right opportunity and conveyed in a manner the facts that his non-participation may result in relinquishment of the prized possession of his land. This ability to skillfully convince the team members should be an integral part of any leader. With all prevailing resistance he took up the initiative by chiseling out a bat from a wood piece.

As a leader one should make oneself confident and comfortable in the task and demonstrate in front of others to make them realise that the insurmountable hurdles they see is just an artificial perception. The perception can change only through experience and observations. Unshackling their pre-conceived notions about the challenges of the mission is a pre-requisite skill of a successful leader. Leading by demonstration not just by giving sermons. The team had a traitor (Lakha, the woodcutter); anybody could have subjected him to abject punishment. But as leader he restrained his temperament and took time to understand the culprit. A leader should forgive mistakes when sincerely acknowledged by the doer. Forgiveness and fair chance brought wonders to contribution of the team performance. Members may have antagonism against the opposition or your competitor. A leader has to tone these negative energies into positive use in the accomplishment of the mission. That was reflected in the conversion of another member’s (Deva, the Sikh from a neighbouring village) vengeance against the Britishers.

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October 3rd, 2007

http://www.indiafm.com/news/2007/10/03/10187/index.html

By Subhash K. Jha, October 3, 2007 - 11:10 IST

The pursuits of scoops and newsbreaks have turned a section of the entertainment media into a nervous and anxious wreck. The ‘sab-chalta-hai’ brand of manufactured (mis) information touches new heights with a story in a Mumbai daily where the over-enthusiastic reporter claims ‘Abhishek Bachchan is playing the true-life character of Lal Bihari Mritak.’

Both the proposed film’s director and producer Anupam Kher and Satish Kaushik are baffled with this story. “I never said Abhishek is playing the role. All I told the correspondent is that the script is ready and an actor to play the protagonist will be finalized shortly. I even offered to let her know the cast as soon as it is finalized. Still she wrote that Abhishek is doing the film. Amazing!”

Producer Anupam Kher, who is just back from England, is even more dazed. “I’ve no clue where such talk comes from. All I know is Satish and I am determined to co-produce films that make a difference. We have just completed Tere Sang, which deals with the contemporary subject of pre-marital pregnancy. We are now going to film the story of ‘Lal Bihari’. And only the correct actor will be cast.”

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September 13th, 2007

http://www.mid-day.com/hitlist/2007/september/164061.htm

Sanjay: ‘I ghost-directed Shootout At Lok…
By: Subhash K Jha
September 14, 2007
——————————————————————————–
Sanjay: ‘I ghost-directed Shootout At Lokhandwala!’

Gupta lashes out at Apoorva Lakhia after yesterday’s story alleging financial irregularities

Where’s The Fire? Sanjay Dutt, Sunil Shetty and Sanjay Gupta at the music launch of Shootout At Lokhandwala
Shootout At Lokhandwala has been far more explosive off-screen than its on-screen innings.

It started on the sets of the film in 2006, when producer Sanjay Gupta and director Apoorva Lakhia had creative differences.

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September 10th, 2007

Ok Jeegs wrote something in the other post that gave me this idea.

Lets have the name of the movie that you have watched the most number of times. This obviously has to be  only 1 movie and also write the number of times (atleast approximately) you have watched it.

 Also so that most of us can identify the movie, lets name you most watched Hindi Movie.

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August 30th, 2007

Link

The below-mentioned release dates have been given by the producers and distributors of these films. At times, the films get postponed for various reasons, hence the list is updated every week. All releases are subject to Censor Certification.
(Note: Movie names listed in alphabetical order)

August 31, 2007
- Dhokha
- Ram Gopal Varma Ki Aag
- Victoria No. 203

September 7, 2007
- Apna Asmaan
- Darling
- Dhamaal
- Meri Life Mein Uski Wife

September 14, 2007
- 50 Lakh
- Aggar
- Cocktail - The Deadly Combination
- Nanhe

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August 2nd, 2007

By Taran Adarsh, August 3, 2007 - 11:57 IST

“The greatest regret of my life…
Two people I could never convince –
My Muslim friend Mohammed Ali Jinnah and
My own son Harilal Gandhi.”

Making a film based on true events is difficult. Not only does it entail lots and lots of research, but to recreate the bygone era and get the right set of actors to enact the characters is another challenge.

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July 24th, 2007

Overseas: ‘Partner’ superb in U.K., U.S.A.

Overseas: ‘Partner’ superb in U.K., U.S.A.

PARTNER has taken a staggering start in U.K. and U.S.A. The film ranks amongst the biggest openers in Overseas, grossing approx. Rs. 4.3 crores in the first 3 days from the two major international markets. The opening numbers have rejuvenated the Overseas territory, which has been facing a crunch since the past few weeks.

Weekend: July 20 - 22, 2007.

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July 19th, 2007

Not happy to be gay!
By: Vickey Lalwani
July 20, 2007
Saif Ali Khan opted out of Karan Johar’s next because his character has gay overtones; John has no problems, and has stepped into the role

NOT A’GAY’N: Saif Ali Khan
Saif Ali Khan’s loss is John Abraham’s gain. After Saif pleaded unavailability to star in Karan Johar’s next untitled flick (to be directed by his assistant Tarun Mansukhani), John has been roped in to fill his shoes. The film also stars Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai.

Playing straight

The buzz doing the round is that Saif opted out because he has no dates this year. Another rumour is that Saif felt his role was not substantial compared to Abhishek and Ash, but the fact is that Mansukhani’s directorial debut is a romantic comedy with gay overtones, hence Saif has rejected it.

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July 18th, 2007

King Khan has been toning up to go bare-chested in Om Shanti Om

After Aamir Khan, it’s now Shah Rukh Khan’s turn to flaunt a six-pack on the big screen. While Aamir will be showing off his bare body in Gajini’s remake, SRK will appear as an item boy in a song for Farah Khan’s Om Shanti Om, to be shot in August.

Bare minimum

A unit member confirms the developments, saying, “Shah Rukh will be doing an item number in Om Shanti Om bare-chested. He has been growing his hair and building a superfit body for that as it’s the last song in the film. He’s currently developed 4-pack abs.

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July 16th, 2007

The Sanjay Gupta-Sanjay Dutt Rift: Who’s Responsible?

By Subhash K. Jha, July 16, 2007 - 11:20 IST 

On Thursday morning when a story about a massive rift between Sanjay Gupta and Sanjay Dutt erupted, the first thing that was done was to sack one of the personnel from their company who was the executive producer in Shoot-out At Lokhandawala.

Confirming this startling development at White Feather, Gupta says, “We’ve given marching orders to a lady who was getting her salary from us but feeding false stories to the press…Trust me, this showdown with my best buddy is the most obnoxious below-the-belt fabrication of a person who has made his life’s first big hit for us and has decided to me malign the very company that gave him a golden chance.”

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July 15th, 2007

By Devansh Patel, July 14, 2007 - 13:42 IST
 

Lara Dutta has slowly but surely made her way from a bit part in a music video to the leading lady in a major motion picture. Her unconventional beauty combined with the courage to work alongside the likes of Akshay Kumar in Andaaz brought her quickly to the top, and with 18 films old, Lara gave her career best performance last month in Jhoom Barabar Jhoom even though the film didn’t Jhoom as per the expectations. In an exclusive interview from India, Lara spoke to IndiaFM’s London correspondent Devansh Patel about her next big release Partner, her new job as a script writer and why she can’t keep a straight face while working with Govinda and Salman Khan.

How has your partnership been with Govinda and Salman Khan in Partner?
It’s been great and I think people will see that once the film releases. Govinda is outstanding in this film and even though we did get a chance to work with each other in Bhagam Bhag, I thought that he was a bit restrained in that particular film. On the other hand, I am paired up opposite Salman in Partner and it’s the first time I’m working with him. He was such a pleasure to work with and is so secured in his craft and what he does. But while filming a scene with both the men, it is very difficult to keep a straight face.

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July 12th, 2007

OK so we have had some interesting threads on some dialogues - some lasted some did not :-)

I was thinking of what would be your favorite one liner from Hindi movies.

Not talking about full dialogues here. Talking about oneliners the stay with you. I am sure we all have our fav.

Let me start the list with a couple.

 ”Pachas tola Pachas tola kitna?” - Vastav

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July 12th, 2007

Well surprisingly no one started it this time :-)

 Come on! this shold be an interesting one - coming after the biggie has flopped and Himesh has displaced Aamir/ HR /SRK from the top slot :-)

My prediction -

First week - 15 - 16 cr

Total - 25cr

I thought that Govinda was a bit restrained in Bhagam Bhag.
Box Office Earnings 29/06/07-05/07/07 (Collections in Ind Rs)
Rank Last Week Film Week Weekly Nett Gross % Change Cinemas Total Nett Gross Verdict
1 New Apne 1 13,35,00,000 - 517 13,35,00,000 -
2 New Aap Kaa Surroor 1 10,66,00,000 - 408 10,66,00,000 -
3 New Awarapan 1 4,89,00,000 - 319 4,89,00,000 -
4 1 Jhoom Barabar Jhoom 3 96,00,000 -82.67 200 26,12,00,000 Flop
5 3 Cheeni Kum 6 27,00,000 -73.53 50 15,49,00,000 Above Average
6 4 Shootout At Lokhandwala 6 23,00,000 -74.44 70 33,45,00,000 Hit
7 6 Life in a… Metro 8 20,00,000 -57.45 45 16,00,00,000 Hit
8 5 Fool n Final 5 11,00,000 -77.08 50 18,99,00,000 Below Average
9 2 Chain Kulii Ki Main Kulii 2 8,00,000 -92.59 40 1,16,00,000 Disaster
10 7 Miss Anara 7 7,00,000 -76.67 25 37,00,000 Flop
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July 9th, 2007

By Taran Adarsh, July 10, 2007 - 09:23 IST
 

APNE is going from strength to strength. The film may have had a slow start, but the business is showing an upward trend with each passing day. The praises have been flowing from within the industry as well. Promos of respected film-makers like Yash Chopra and Karan Johar are doing the rounds of television. But there’s one more director who seems highly impressed with the film. Rajkumar Hirani.

The director of films like MUNNABHAI M.B.B.S. and LAGE RAHO MUNNABHAI sent a text message to Anil Sharma soon after he watched APNE, praising the directorial abilities in particular and the film in general. The message reads: You have made a film from the heart. Wonderful script wonderfully executed. Great performances. People are sure to clap and scream. Hats off to you.”

Coming from Hirani, this is one big compliment!

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July 9th, 2007

By Joginder Tuteja, July 9, 2007 - 14:23 IST 

Mid-year analysis always leads to certain interesting trends. The same happens in case of the music analysis too as it is quite apparent that except for a stray album or two, what seemed to be working most was a new sound. Unpredictability was in, curtains were down on anything that was routine. Not that 2007 has boasted of a dozen odd exceptional albums; that’s certainly not the case, but one still looks on to the rest of the year with anticipation of something bigger and even better on the way. Till then one continues to sing along ‘In Dino‘ and ‘Alvida‘!

Note: Salaam E Ishq and Guru are not included since the music released in 2006

1. Metro [Pritam]

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July 1st, 2007
By Taran Adarsh, June 29, 2007 - 12:45 IST
  Did you expect BHEJA FRY to be such a big hit?
I didn’t expect the film to be such a big hit though I knew that people will like it. I was of the view that if the film runs even for a week or two, it’ll be great. The only plan on my mind was that if I make a good film, I will get a producer for my next film.

I was of the view that if the film runs even for a week or two, it’ll be great

What do you think worked for the film?
If you present comedy in a new style, the audiences will definitely like it. Comedy is like a favorite dish. If you cook it properly with all the right ingredients, people will surely like it.

It is said that BHEJA FRY is inspired from a French film. How much did you take from that film?
We took the concept of the character of “idiot” from the French film. We have also adapted the structure of the French film. But we changed all the characters and tried to give them an Indian flavor. We also added two songs in the film which the French film-maker would never do. Our production cost, however, was very low compared to the French film. At the core of it, we studied the structure and the spirit of the French film and tried to get it in this film. When you adapt a film, you should pay respect to the original by making the adaptation even better than the original.

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June 29th, 2007

3 and 1/2 Stars :-)

By Taran Adarsh, June 29, 2007 - 12:41 IST

Choosing an interesting story is difficult. But doing justice to the story is nothing short of an achievement. AWARAPAN, directed by Mohit Suri, gets it right on both the levels — on paper first, on celluloid later.

For Hindi moviegoers, the story may remind you of Rakesh Roshan’s KOYLA [SRK, Madhuri, Amrish Puri], but in actuality, AWARAPAN borrows from director Kim Ji-woon’s Korean film A BITTERSWEET LIFE [2005; Korean title: DALKOMHAN INSAENG; starring Lee Byung-Hun, Kim Young-Cheol, Shin Mina]. Nothing wrong with being inspired, since every director has his way of interpreting a story. Also, Mohit adapts the content to suit Indian sensibilities.

AWARAPAN is as raw as a gash inflicted by a rod. A number of Hindi films have plunged into the underbelly of the underworld/mafia in the past, so how different is AWARAPAN from films of its ilk? AWARAPAN packs in all this and something extra in those 2 hours — a love story and spirituality.

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June 29th, 2007

3 and 1/2 stars AGAIN

By Taran Adarsh, June 29, 2007 - 12:38 IST

With SHRADDHANJALI, his directorial debut, Anil Sharma proved that he could make you moist-eyed. With HUKUMAT, he proved that he could pull off a vendetta fare with gusto. With GADAR, he proved he could handle a love story with two neighboring countries as the backdrop with remarkable ease.

APNE, his new endeavor, is all about familial bonding. In a way, the storyteller goes back to his roots in his new outing — emotions.

APNE casts a father [Dharmendra] and his two real-life sons [Sunny, Bobby] in roles that suit their personalities. Besides, the backdrop of boxing makes the conflict in the story look convincing.

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June 29th, 2007

3and1/2 Stars ! WTF? 

By Taran Adarsh, June 29, 2007 - 12:31 IST

Television producer. Music composer. Singer. And now actor. Oh yes, Himesh Reshammiya wears many caps. Literally! Everyone’s curious to know how HR is as an actor? Is he a fine actor? Or has he strolled into the wrong alley?

Don’t expect miracles. HR is no Dilip Kumar, Amitabh Bachchan, SRK or Aamir Khan when it comes to histrionics. He’s not the best looker in town either, not anywhere close to Salman Khan, Hrithik Roshan or Akshay Kumar.

But you’ve to hand it over to HR for being the most courageous and confident person around. Can you ever imagine actors like Amitabh Bachchan or SRK turning music composers overnight? It’s difficult to take risks, especially when you’re under a scanner constantly. Like the famous lines go, every step you take, every move you make, the world’ll be watching you…

Sid|27 comments |Related|Filed Under
June 26th, 2007

Overseas: ‘J.B.J.’ drops, ‘Sivaji - The Boss’ rules!

The collections of JHOOM BARABAR JHOOM have registered a drop in the three key international markets in its second weekend. In U.K., the film has had a 53% drop, in Australia it’s 55%, while the drop is very severe [70%] in U.S.A.

SIVAJI - THE BOSS is extra-ordinary in U.K., while the critically acclaimed Angelina Jolie starrer A MIGHTY HEART [co-starring Irrfan Khan and Aly Khan], which was partly filmed in India, hasn’t opened to the desired response in U.S.A.

Weekend: June 22 - 24, 2007.

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June 25th, 2007

Abhishek and Vivek in one movie?

‘Mission Istanbul’ Click here to add this article to My Clips
  By Taran Adarsh, June 26, 2007 - 03:40 IST
  After the smashing success of SHOOTOUT AT LOKHANDWALA, director Apoorva Lakhia is geared up to start his next venture, titled MISSION ISTANBUL. To start with, he has roped in a huge star cast for this film as well: Abhishek Bachchan, Bobby Deol, Vivek Oberoi, Tusshar and television actor Shabbir Ahluwalia [he made his big screen debut in SHOOTOUT]. One more lead man is to be finalized. While Abhishek, Bobby and Vivek play ‘good guys’, Tusshar, Shabbir and one more actor are the ‘bad boys’. Two leading ladies are under finalization.

Although Lakhia is tightlipped about the cast, it’s reliably learnt that the film is based on terrorism and will be shot in Afghanistan, Srinagar, Mumbai and Istanbul. If shooting in Afghanistan isn’t possible for some reason, a massive set replicating Afghanistan will be built in Jaisalmer to can those portions.

Shooting for this multi-starrer starts from 1st October. Suniel Shetty’s Popcorn and Ekta Kapoor’s Balaji will produce this film.
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June 25th, 2007
Now ‘Bheja Fry 2′ & ‘Bheja Fry 3′ Click here to add this article to My Clips
  By Taran Adarsh, June 26, 2007 - 03:40 IST
  Sequels and remakes are supposedly the foolproof formula for success. And Sagar Ballary, the talented director behind BHEJA FRY, is planning to make the sequel to the rip-roaring hit. “Oh yes! The plan to make BHEJA FRY 2 is in the pipeline. But, surprising though it may sound, I have the concept of BHEJA FRY 3 ready with me, but not of BHEJA FRY 2. Of course, I wouldn’t make BHEJA FRY 3 before BHEJA FRY 2,” Sagar confides in me.

However, Sagar is in no hurry to start the sequel. “That’s because I don’t want to rush into something just because BHEJA FRY has worked big time. The sequel should have a better script and also funnier situations for me to start work on it,” he admits. Meanwhile, Sagar is on the lookout for a plump boy to play the central lead in his new film KACHCHA LIMBOO, a kiddie film.
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June 19th, 2007

Link 

It’s not everyday that you get to quiz Aamir Khan about movies, controversies and future plans. When we did get this opportunity we decided to make the most of it. Dressed in a blue T-shirt and shorts, he sipped on his cup of chai (in a designer mug with Bhuvan Uncle written on it) and answered all our queries. Animatedly, at times angry, most of the time in good humour with phases of nostalgia peppered in. By the end of it all we realized that it turned out to be The most detailed interview Aamir Khan has given in recent times. Let’s get you down to the Q & A.

At the launch of Lagaan DVD, you said that every Indian should have a copy of Lagaan. Why did you say that?
I don’t know why I said that. But judging by the response Lagaan had, it was a film that all Indians liked and enjoyed. I was feeling bad as I couldn’t release the DVD for five years as I was under a contract. I have always propagated to my audience that they should not buy pirated copies of films. They should buy the original. Now, here was a situation that I could not release the original for five years. I was feeling bad about it. It was not available to fans to watch it. It was not available to people who want to watch it on a regular basis. Now, I am glad that they can do so.

Check out the audio 

Chale Chalo is a two and a half hour making of Lagaan. Why do you think people ought to buy its DVD?
I am not sure whether people will buy it. When you are putting something in market, you don’t know whether it will sell or not. But that is what I felt for Lagaan. Before it was released if you asked me whether people would see the film, I would say I don’t know. If you ask me whether people would watch Chale Chalo, I’d say I don’t know, we’ll see. I think it is great material. I think it’s very entertaining. It has got drama, different emotions of each character. The only difference is that it is not fiction. It is real. It’s actually happening. So, whatever really happened is shown on the film. Real drama went on in making this film. When I saw it for the first time, I was quite amazed what Satyajit Bhatkal (he is the guy who made the film) had made. He was one of the production people on the film. Chale Chalo is his point of view. He made it the way he thought he should. He is the narrator of the film. When I saw it I was blown. When you are busy in making a film you are so busy you don’t realize in the heat of moment what all happened. When I saw Chale Chalo, I saw how we made Lagaan! There were so many problems, the budget went haywire, it almost got shelved in the middle. It’s a very fascinating piece of film. It’s the first of its kind available in India. It’s a rare opportunity for Indian fans to see what actually goes on in making such a film.

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June 19th, 2007

Overseas: ‘Jhoom Barabar Jhoom’ below expectations

If you look at the opening weekend numbers of JHOOM BARABAR JHOOM in the three major markets [U.K., U.S.A., Australia], you’d exclaim, ‘Wow!’ But when you compare those figures with Yash Raj’s successful films, you’d agree that their latest outing has fared below expectations in these markets. Let’s dissect the film in the three territories…

  • In U.K., the screen average of JHOOM BARABAR JHOOM is lower than MOHABBATEIN, MUJHSE DOSTI KAROGE, HUM TUM, VEER-ZAARA, SALAAM | NAMASTE, FANAA and DHOOM 2. But higher than TA RA RUM PUM, KABUL EXPRESS, NEAL ‘N’ NIKKI, BUNTY AUR BABLI, DHOOM and MERE YAAR KI SHAADI HAI.
  • In U.S.A., the screen average of JHOOM BARABAR JHOOM is lower than HUM TUM, VEER-ZAARA, BUNTY AUR BABLI, SALAAM | NAMASTE, FANAA and DHOOM 2. But higher than TA RA RUM PUM, KABUL EXPRESS, NEAL ‘N’ NIKKI and DHOOM.
  • In Australia, the screen average of JHOOM BARABAR JHOOM is lower than VEER-ZAARA, SALAAM | NAMASTE, FANAA and DHOOM 2. But higher than TA RA RUM PUM, NEAL ‘N’ NIKKI and BUNTY AUR BABLI.

In a nutshell, given the star cast, producer’s brand-value, director’s credibility and no opposition, JHOOM BARABAR JHOOM should’ve embarked on one of the biggest openings in Overseas. But…

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June 19th, 2007

I have trained with Satya at Barbarian, he is GOOD!

Aamir buffs up
   By: Upala KBR
   June 20, 2007

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June 18th, 2007
Anil Ambani eyes audio, Home Video market Click here to add this article to My Clips
  By Taran Adarsh, June 19, 2007 - 02:57 IST
  Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group’s Reliance Entertainment Sector is fast spreading its wings in the entertainment industry. The latest move is an audio company and Home Video wing under the name of Big Music & Home Entertainment. The company is raring to go and has already acquired a few titles in its first phase.

The company shall takeoff with the music launch of Tamil film KIREEDAM, starring Ajith and Trisha, on 23rd June. A few days later, on 29th June, Big Music will launch the music of Anubhav Sinha’s keenly awaited movie CASH, followed by the music launch of Salman Khan’s first international project MARIGOLD on 7th/8th July. Prakash Jha’s two films — KHOYA KHOYA CHAND and DIL DOSTI ETC. — will follow next.

“We’re looking at opening offices in Delhi, Kolkata and Chennai. We intend acquiring the audio and Home Video rights of 10/11 languages’ titles in our first phase,” Kulmeet Makkar, CEO of the company, informs me. Makkar adds that the company is in talks with other labels to acquire their repertoire.

With corporate entities like Moser Baer and now Anil Ambani in the fray, the Home Video market is only going to get hotter!
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June 18th, 2007

Could not get on to NG the whole day yesterday :-( so penned my thoughts on the Trailor.
I was really disappointed by the trailor, it just failed to excite me on the movie. May be I expected much more.

Chak 14 – This trailer already looks soo boring.
Chak 13 – Soon I will be snoring.
Chak 11 – I thought I died and not gone to Heven 
Chak 12 – Seriously what do YRF think of them selves
Chak 10 – (to the hockey team) Aap itne gusse meain kyoon hai Behen ?
Chank 9 – Well atleast SRK looks Fit and Fine.
Chak 8 – I will get through This trailer … I’ve got to keep the faith.
Chak 7 – Yaay seven down  … ooh but remaining seven ?
Chak 6 – To see (the movie) or not to see … I am in a fix.
Chak 5 – Am I seeing Desi Spice Girls Live?
Chak 4 – With such a trailer, how many tickets will they score ?
Chak 3 – Come on set me free !
Chak 2 – from me no Yaays its just booo.
Chak 1 – This movie does not look SERIOUS nor FUN
Are you sure its from the director of Ab Tak chappan ?
I THINK I AM GOING TO GIVE A SKIP TO THIS ONE :-)

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