Anupama Dayal's love for India continues

Candolim (Goa), Nov 28 (IANS) With many Indian designers looking towards the West for inspiration, designer Anupama Dayal continues to get creatively inspired by the rich colour of India and this is what one witnessed in her collection "Apsara" on the opening day of the India Resort Fashion Week (IRFW).

The second edition of the fashion extravaganza started Wednesday.

"I always make sure to add Indian sensibilities to my collection, so when I was working for my beachwear line this season, I tried to work with Indian colours. Also I tried interesting drape, some of them were inspired from sari. The concept sari and the collection that I showcased last year was received very well so I thought why not this edition as well," said Dayal.

The collection was an amalgamation of dhoti trousers, kaftans and other silhouettes in flowy fabrics. Also there was heavy usage of Indian colours like sindoori red, tota green and kesariya yellow.

"I always believe in creating something that falls beautifully and suits every body type. I have always maintained that my collection is for woman who is comfortable and confident with her body type. when I started my designing career, people used to say my work is completely resort-based and that I was perfect for making resortwear trends, so I thought let's just make it my signature style and bring in new trends," said the designer.

Dayal believes that resort wear is not only restricted to bikinis but to variety of garments.

"Resort wear is not only about bikinis but also about interesting drapes and dresses that one can comfortably wear while on a holiday," said Dayal, who has also used lot of beads, fables and shells in the garments to give it more of Goan feel.

The designer feels Indians have more knowledge about resortwear trends, and if the talent is put to use rightly, "we can do wonders".

"We understand the sun, weather and fabrics like anybody else. Also, our techniques and processes are very organic. So, if we put it all together in the market, it will be a lethal combination which will attract international buyers any day," she said.

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Barfi! Streaming on Netflix

Barfi! Streaming on Netflix
NR  [ Wed, Nov 28, 2012 ] November 28, 2012 - Netflix, Inc. is making Bollywood fans' lives a little more exciting by bringing a variety of Bollywood hits into their homes. Over the next few months, Netflix will be making available to members in the U.S. recent releases from Bollywood studio heavyweights Reliance, Vista India and Disney UTV.

Bollywood, also referred to as Hindi cinema, is among the largest film production centers in the world, rivaling only Hollywood. Netflix is offering you the chance to reconnect with some of your favorite Bollywood stars such as Shah Rukh Khan, Priyanka Chopra, Ranbir Kapoor, Ranveer Singu, Anushka Sharma, Karisma Kapoor and Salman Khan in films including Ladies vs. Ricky Bahl, Don 2, Ishquazaade, Dangerous Ishhq, Ek Tha Tiger, Bodyguard and Ajj De Ranjhe.

New fans to the genre can now become acquainted with acclaimed movies coming out of Bollywood this year, such as Barfi!, the story of a mute and deaf boy and his love triangle with two girls, one of whom is autistic. Available to stream on Netflix starting today, Barfi! stars Bollywood royalty Ranbir Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra and was recently selected to represent India in the Best Foreign Language category at the 85th Academy Awards next February.

"I am thrilled that Barfi! is now streaming on Netflix," says Barfi! star Ranbir Kapoor. "Through its availability on Netflix, Barfi! will be introduced to a broad global audience, and I hope this uplifting film will find new fans in the US."

"I am delighted that Netflix is now streaming so many of my films," says Priyanka Chopra. "I am equally excited be able to share my latest film Barfi! with a whole new audience. Each one of these films is so different from each other but each has a special place in my heart. I know for sure you will be entertained!"

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Directing a film not easy: Rajat Kapoor

Directing a film not easy: Rajat Kapoor
IANS  [ Wed, Nov 28, 2012 ] Mumbai, Nov 28 (IANS) Rajat Kapoor believes it takes a lot of conviction and convincing power to become a successful director.

"It is a difficult task to make a film. It is certainly not an easy job because you have to not only believe in yourself, but convince a hundred other people to believe in you. First get a producer, then cameraman, production designer, star cast... you have to convince everyone and get them to your world," Rajat told IANS.

He is known for helming small budget entertainers like "Mithya", "Mixed Doubles" and "Fatso!". But he says while moviemaking is about joint efforts of a lot of people, a director has to string them all together.

"You make a film in collaboration (with lots of people). Unless they don't believe in your vision, you can't make a film. That is one of the reasons why a director's job is difficult. Many of them don't make a film, maybe because they don't believe in themselves," said Rajat.

He will next be seen in Sharat Katariya's unusually titled "10 ml Love", and says as an actor, he completely gave himself into the demands of his director.

Katariya started out as an assistant director to Rajat during the making of "Raghu Romeo".

"When I act, I don't think about anything else. As an actor, I submit myself to the director because at that point, I am not making a film. I am just a part of it. The problem arises when an actor thinks that he is bigger than the film," said Rajat, who is overwhelmed how his protege Katariya has directing him for the big screen in "10 ml Love".

"10 ml Love", which also features Tisca Chopra, is slated to release Dec 7.

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Himesh's 'surprise' role in 'Khiladi 786'

Himesh's 'surprise' role in 'Khiladi 786'
IANS  [ Wed, Nov 28, 2012 ] Mumbai, Nov 28 (IANS) Himesh Reshammiya is not only co-producing "Khiladi 786", but even has a role in the movie.

"My role is a surprise. This is the first time I am playing the role of a Gujarati boy, Mansukh Desai. And the story is mine. The music is mine. This is my first joint venture with Akshay (Kumar)," said Himesh.

Directed by Ashish R.Mohan, the action-comedy features Akshay opposite Asin Thottumkal.

"I have been composing music for Akshay's films since a long time. I feel this is a 'Khiladi' film and I think he is the real hero in this film, while the rest are extras," Himesh added.

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Injury keeps Siddharth away from cricket tourney

Injury keeps Siddharth away from cricket tourney
IANS  [ Wed, Nov 28, 2012 ] New Delhi, Nov 28 (IANS) Siddharth has been approached to play the annual Celebrity Cricket League (CCL) for three state teams, but a shoulder injury has held back the actor from taking up any offer.

"Got a call from Salman bhai's (Salman Khan) Mumbai Heroes to play for them in CCL next year. Would have loved to, but for the shoulder... 2014," Siddharth tweeted.

"Have now been asked by Hyderabad, Chennai and Mumbai to play in CCL. It is a lovely feeling to work in different languages as an actor... nice," he added.

However, the actor assures there is no permanent damage to his shoulder.

"No permanent damage to the shoulder. Just a few months of rehab and nothing silly is what the doctors have advised. Thanks for the love," he said.

The 20-20 cricket tournament has teams not only from Hindi cinema, but also Telugu, Kannada, Bengali and Tamil cinema. Two new teams involving Bhojpuri and Marathi film industries have been introduced in the tournament to be held in 2013.

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Manisha Koirala in hospital

Manisha Koirala in hospital
IANS  [ Thu, Nov 29, 2012 ] Mumbai, Nov 29 (IANS) Actress Manisha Koirala is warded at the Jaslok Hospital here for check-ups.

"She was hospitalized yesterday (Wednesday). She is undergoing a few check-ups. She is doing fine," a hospital source told IANS. She will be discharged when her medical reports are out.

The 42-year-old reportedly fell unconscious, leading to her hospitalization, according to some published reports. These could not be confirmed.

Manisha, who hails from an influential family in Nepal, has worked in several films. She made debuted with "Saudagar" in 1991, and recently made a comeback with Ram Gopal Varma's "Bhoot Returns".

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Naseeruddin Shah in Pakistan

Naseeruddin Shah in Pakistan
IANS  [ Wed, Nov 28, 2012 ] Islamabad, Nov 29 (IANS) Indian actor Naseeruddin Shah has arrived in Lahore to participate in a programme, a media report said Thursday.

Shah along with his family Wednesday arrived in Lahore, reported the News International.

"Why would I come to Pakistan if I had no 'Aman ki Asha' (desire for peace)?" Shah told the media outside the Allama Iqbal International Airport.

He said that he would stay in Pakistan for a week and would perform in a programme scheduled to be held in Lahore Dec 1 and 2.

The news report did not elaborate on the type of programme.

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'Pavitra Rishta' set for six-month leap

'Pavitra Rishta' set for six-month leap
IANS  [ Wed, Nov 28, 2012 ] New Delhi, Nov 28 (IANS) Ekta Kapoor's popular TV show "Pavitra Rishta" is set to take a six-month leap, with actor Shakti Arora making an entry in it.

The plot previously witnessed a four-year leap, and then a 20-year leap again saw new faces been introduced in the show.

In a new twist, viewers will be transported to Kolkata where Arjun (Rithvik Dhanjani), now an accomplished businessman, is settled with wife Ovi (Shruti Kanwar), who is pregnant. Meanwhile, Purvi (Asha Negi), Arjun's former love, is in Kolkata too and is also expecting a child.

The leap will set in on the episode to be aired Dec 3.

Shakti will be seen in the role of Kolkata-based gynaecologist Onir Dutta, and he is excited about joining the show's cast.

"It is an honour to be considered for one of the most successful shows on Indian television. I'd like to thank Ekta ma'am and Zee TV for the opportunity. It is an interesting role. Let us hope the audience enjoys my performance and the track in Kolkata," Shakti said in a statement.

Shakti was previously seen in Zee TV shows like "Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Kijo" and "Sanskaar Laxmi".

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Shweta gets a modern makeover in 'Parvarrish'

Shweta gets a modern makeover in 'Parvarrish'
IANS  [ Wed, Nov 28, 2012 ] New Delhi, Nov 28 (IANS) Television actress Shweta Tiwari aka Sweety of " Parvarrish - Kuchh Khattee Kuchh Meethi" will undergo a makeover in the show. Away from the typical salwar-kameez clad look, she will now be seen in western clothes.

The show revolves around parents' efforts to give childlren the right upbringing.

Shweta has so far been shown as a strict mother wearing only Indian attires. But of late, a new entry on the show, Mandira, played by actress Kamya Punjabi, is being seen as a modern-day woman - a lady who leaves Shweta's onscreen husband Lucky and son Rocky impressed.

Shweta said she had to work on her makeover.

"I had to spend a lot of time in curling my hair and the picking up accessories for my new look in the show. It is not like I don't wear this kind of dresses in my daily life, but I hope I get to go back to the earlier look soon," Shweta said in a statement.

It will be interesting to see if Shweta's new look will change her attributes of a strict and nasty mother.

The show is aired on Sony.

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Anil may consider Sonam for Indian '24'

Anil may consider Sonam for Indian '24'
IANS  [ Wed, Nov 28, 2012 ] Mumbai, Nov 28 (IANS) Actor Anil Kapoor, who is set to bring the Indian adaption of award-winning American TV series "24" to the small screen, says he is willing to cast daughter Sonam Kapoor if there is a role for her.

"If there is a character which suits Sonam or Sonam thinks will suit her, then why not? We will definitely pitch, these days we have to talk to Sonam's managers," the 52-year-old said here Tuesday at the launch of "24."

"24" is an American television series that started in 2001 and ran till 2010, with a total of 192 episodes.

Anil featured in the eighth season of the show as Omar Hassan, president of the fictional Islamic Republic of Kamistan.

Meanwhile, when asked about his personal favourite television show, he said, "I liked 'Buniyaad', which was directed by Ramesh Sippy ji. I loved that."

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Busy birthday for Yami Gautam

Busy birthday for Yami Gautam
IANS  [ Tue, Nov 27, 2012 ] Mumbai, Nov 28 (IANS) Actress Yami Gautam, who turns 24 Wednesday, prefers to keep herself occupied with work on her birthday.

"Birthdays were really special during school times. We really look forward for that special day. But for the last two-three years I have been busy shooting for my films during my birthdays. This year again I am shooting for a South film in Hyderabad," Yami, who made her Bollywood debut with critically acclaimed film "Vicky Donor", told IANS.

"I personally feel it's good to be busy every day. The best way to celebrate the birthday is to be busy. In the morning, I will go to a temple and then start shooting," she added.

On her birthday, Yami only wishes for good health for her family.

"I am very attached to my family. The only gift I ask god on each birthday is for good health and happiness for my family," Yami said.

The actress, who is a Sagittarian, doesn't believe in sun signs either.

"I don't really believe too much in sun signs. I believe lot of people were born under same sign and all of us are so different from each other. I don't overrate it," she added.

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Decoding Indian women - through TV show

New Delhi, Nov 27 (IANS) "What's With Indian Women?", a new TV show is set to decode what women folk are all about. Two men - a video jockey (VJ) and a comedian - travelled across the country and met women from different walks of life for the quirky series.

The show, to go on air Dec 9 on FOX Traveller, is said to be packed with candid confessions and hilarious conversations.

It features VJ Andy and comedian Sanjay Rajoura on a journey through New Delhi, Mumbai, Goa, Dehradun, Pune, Jaipur, Vadodara, Shillong, Bangalore, Kolkata, Chennai, Lucknow and Chandigarh.

They meet models, actresses, housewives, sportspersons and activists in their quest to find out everything about the opposite gender.

Andy says the show has served as a "crash course" on Indian women for him.

"We travelled the Indian landscape, met interesting women and learnt about everything that makes them special. This is an exciting series that is high on humour, travel and some fantastic revelations," Andy said in a statement.

Rajoura said: "Women are known to be these mysterious creatures, every man is trying to figure out. This show is the perfect guide for all men out there!"

It is a follow-up to the show "What's With Indian Men", which went on air in 2011.

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Himesh says 'Khiladi 786' will be Rs.100 crore hit

Himesh says 'Khiladi 786' will be Rs.100 crore hit
IANS  [ Wed, Nov 28, 2012 ] Mumbai, Nov 28 (IANS) Singer-composer Himesh Reshammiya, who has co-produced "Khiladi 786" with Akshay Kumar, is sure it will be yet another Rs.100 crore film for the actor.

"As far as Rs.100 crore is concerned, I am 100 percent sure and pray that the record Akshay Kumar has set with 'Rowdy Rathore' and 'OMG- Oh My God!' this year, in 'Khiladi 786' we will surely cross that figure," the 39-year-old said here Tuesday on the sidelines of a college fest.

Reshammiya was present at the event with Akshay and the film's leading lady Asin Thottumkal.

Reshammiya also spoke highly of Akshay's chemistry with veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty.

"Mithun da and Akshay's jodi has always been a hit. Mithun ji is a legend. He is playing Asin's elder brother Tatya Tukaram Tendulkar, who is a don and has done fantastic work," he said.

Directed by Ashish R. Mohan, "Khiladi 786" hits theatres Dec 7.

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'Kal Ho Naa Ho', nostalgia grips Karan

'Kal Ho Naa Ho', nostalgia grips Karan
IANS  [ Wed, Nov 28, 2012 ] Mumbai, Nov 28 (IANS) It has been nine years since Karan Johar's "Kal Ho Naa Ho" hit the screens. The movie, he says, will always be special because it was the last helmed by his father Yash Johar.

"Nine years to 'Kal Ho Naa Ho'... the last film my father helmed at Dharma Productions. An ironic title of a very special film to me... always," Karan tweeted.

The movie released on Nov 28, 2003.

Nikhil Advani, who made his debut as a director with "Kal Ho Naa Ho", also thanked Karan for "giving" him a "dream start".

"Thank you for giving me the dream start!!!" tweeted Advani.

The movie featured Shah Rukh Khan, Saif Ali Khan and Preity Zinta.

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Lata launches music label with bhajan album

Lata launches music label with bhajan album
Subhash K. Jha  [ Wed, Nov 28, 2012 ] Mumbai, Nov 28 (IANS) Singing legend Lata Mangeshkar has launched her own music label L.M. Music with an album of bhajans. Lata has sung along with younger sister Usha for the new album.

The two sisters have sang a number of hit songs in the 1950s and 1960s like "Apalam chaplam" ("Azad"), "Kis kaaran kamini sharmaye" ("Chandan Ka Palna)" and "Bahe jaiye na rani" ("Sabse Bada Rupaiya").

The new album has bhajans dedicated to Swami Samarth of Akkalkot.

"It is always a pleasure to sing with Usha. She's a fine singer in her own right. We've come together again because of the solemnity of the occasion, Swami Samarth is a much-revered saint from Akkalkot," said Lata.

The music of the album is composed by a young musician Mayuresh Pai. It was due to be launched Nov 18 in a lavish bash but had to be postponed due to Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray's death.

"Our release function had to be put off. 2012 was not a good year for me. We will have a lavish function in January 2013. But we had to release the Mahamantra album for Swami Samarth. It was a commitment. We had to deliver within a time-frame," she said.

About the label LM Music, Lata shyly said, "It's a name suggested by everyone in the family. I went along with it. I've no interest in using my name for anything."

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No 'rubbish' roles for Tisca Chopra

No 'rubbish' roles for Tisca Chopra
IANS  [ Wed, Nov 28, 2012 ] Mumbai, Nov 28 (IANS) Tisca Chopra, who has balanced her acting career with a mix of small budget entertainers as well as commercial films, says the audience will never find her doing any "rubbish" projects.

"There should be a balance of both commercial success and critically acclaimed (films). I want to do commercial, but sensible films. I can assure the you that audience will never find me doing rubbish roles. I will never do things which I can't relate to," Tisca told IANS.

All that she wants to do is something "different" all the time.

"I don't want to repeat myself. I would like to play roles of some great Indian women like Indira Gandhi amd Sarojini Naidu or if there is any role like that of a journalist like Barkha Dutt or an athlete like P.T.Usha, I would be more than happy to do those roles," said the 39-year-old, who has featured in movies like "Taare Zameen Par", "Firaaq", "Mirch" and "Dil Toh Baccha Hai Ji".

Tisca is glad that she is a part of showbiz at a "beautiful time" for Indian actors.

"I am doing a film called 'Anukur Arora Murder Case'. It is an international film. I am doing very women-centric films these days. It is a beautiful time for Indian actors. "

"We have some different looking people like Nawazzuddin Siddiqui, Irrfan and Adir Hussain... people are loving them and loving their performance because they fit their roles," she said.

Tisca is currently busy promoting her next film "10 ml Love". Directed by Sharat Katariya, the movie, releasing Dec 7, also features Rajat Kapoor.

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Speaking Hindi was test for me: Prabhudheva

Speaking Hindi was test for me: Prabhudheva
IANS  [ Wed, Nov 28, 2012 ] Mumbai, Nov 28 (IANS) Actor-filmmaker Prabhudheva has dubbed in Hindi for the 3D dance film "ABCD - AnyBody Can Dance" and says it was really tough.

"Talking in Hindi, it was like a test for me," the southern star said when asked what was tougher, dancing or acting.

Prabhudheva, 39, was speaking at movie's promo launch here Tuesday. The film is directed by choreographer Remo D'Souza, who reveals he started working on the script only after Prabhudheva said yes to the role.

"I only had an idea and I met Prabhu sir and said, 'Sir, I have an idea and I want you only. That's why I have come to you first and if you say yes, only then I'll start writing the script.' He instantly said yes after listening to the idea," Remo said.

"ABCD - AnyBody Can Dance" also features Kay Kay Menon and choreographer Ganesh Acharya besides dancers Dharmesh, Salman Yusuff Khan, Mayuresh Wadkar and Vrushali Chavan. It hits theatres Feb 8, 2013.

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You can't go wrong with passion-profession combo: Karan Johar

Mumbai, Nov 28 (IANS) He is passionate about his work and believes in the power of cinema, the reason why he mostly manages to hit box office bull's eye, says Karan Johar, the successful director and the man behind Dharma Productions.

"I am a great believer in cinema. I love films. I love the magic of the movies. And I think when you love the movies, you create the movies," Karan told IANS in an exclusive interview.

This is true of everyone who is involved with his production house Dharma Productions, said Karan.

"I think the reason why we do what we do is because all of us in the company are very passionate about cinema. It's not a day job for me; it's a passion job for me. So, when you have both passion and profession walking hand in hand, you can't really go wrong," he said.

Karan's passion was evident in his films "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai", "Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham", "Kal Ho Naa Ho", "My Name Is Khan" and "Agneepath". Known for making glamorous and designer family dramas, he feels his films are able to find a perfect match between intelligence and commercial elements.

"It really depends upon the ethos of a filmmaker and what he or she wants to communicate. We produce what we believe in, but it could be of any type and be a part of any genre," he said.

"While we produce a 'Student Of The Year', we have also produced a 'My Name Is Khan', which had its own impact and relevance or a 'Kurbaan', which has some kind of social relevance as part of its plot. So while there is entertainment, there is also relevance and we balance it within the company," he said.

The latest yardstick to measure a film's success in B-town is whether or not it is part of the Rs.100-Rs.200 crore club, but Karan believes a film's success should be measured on the basis of its longevity.

"I think if a film doesn't last in longevity and in people's memories, it is not a film of importance or relevance. Box office numbers are eventually your report card in the business. But I think what's really important is that you must make a film, which is remembered. So, to leave the film behind in the minds of a cinegoer should be every filmmaker's objective," he said.

He is quite chilled out about the latest fad of remakes.

"I am ok with remakes. If you can give your own edge and slant, then why not? I think there is a dearth of writers, but I don't think that's why people make remakes....it's also your sense of creativity and what you want to do with it. Remaking it in exactly the same way is no fun. Revisiting it in a certain way and adjusting it to the modern times always makes it interesting," he said.

Continued on next page...

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Yuvraj Singh to narrate stories of courage on 'The Unbreakables'

Yuvraj Singh to narrate stories of courage on 'The Unbreakables'
IANS  [ Tue, Nov 27, 2012 ] New Delhi, Nov 27 (IANS) Star cricketer Yuvraj Singh has been roped in to host a new TV series, "The Unbreakables", which will unfold stories if courage in the face of adversities.

The show will go on air on Nat Geo starting Dec 24.

The cricketer, who has battled cancer, is an inspiration to fans worldwide. He will narrate tales of others' valour - of people who were captured and held hostage by guerrilla groups while on an adventure tour, and of another person who was forced to smuggle cocaine at gun-point.

Yuvraj is happy about his association with such a show.

"I have tremendous respect for people with a profound positive attitude who face dire situations head-on and emerge stronger from them. 'The Unbreakables' is a series that recounts formidable incidents, while outlining sheer strength that people exude when the going gets tough, Yuvraj said in a statement.

"It is truly an honour to celebrate undying spirit," added the cricketer, whose own journey through his battle against cancer was captured in a three-part series "Zindagi Abhi Baaki Hai" for a popular general entertainment channel.

Meanwhile, with "The Unbreakables" viewers can expect to get firsthand accounts of unexpected captivity, imprisonment and pure terror, says Debarpita Banerjee, vice president, marketing, National Geographic Network and Fox International Channels India.

"We are very excited to have Yuvraj Singh present this series as for our country he is the epitome of life back on track," said Banerjee.

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Bhandarkar invited for Cairo film fest

Bhandarkar invited for Cairo film fest
IANS  [ Tue, Nov 27, 2012 ] New Delhi, Nov 27 (IANS) Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar has been invited to join the international jury at the Cairo International Film Festival that starts Tuesday.

"I am delighted to be a part of the international jury for the 35th edition of Cairo International Film Festival. I love the theme that they have 'positive thinking, revolution and freedom'. This is an honour, which I humbly accept," Bhandarkar said in a statement.

The filmmaker will judge the international competition category of the film festival along with actor-producer Khaled Abol Naga (Egypt), director Babak Payami (Canada), actress Menna Chalabi (Egypt), actor Fabio Testi (Italy), actress Magdalena Boczarska (Poland), producer Malek El Akkad (US) and Richard Pena, director of New York Film Festival.

This is not the first time that Bhandarkar will a part of the festival. In 2010, the festival organised a retrospect of his films and screened "Chandni Bar", "Page 3", "Corporate", "Traffic Signal" and "Fashion".

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'Bigg Boss' to be made into film, as horror comedy

'Bigg Boss' to be made into film, as horror comedy
IANS  [ Tue, Nov 27, 2012 ] Mumbai, Nov 27 (IANS) Popular reality show "Bigg Boss" is now headed for the big screen -- as a horror comedy!

Endemol India, producers of "Bigg Boss", along with Select Media Holdings Pvt. Ltd's film production arm, Moving Pictures, will jointly produce the horror comedy, based on the experiences of the people in the "Bigg Boss" house. The movie will go on the floors next year.

"The success of 'Bigg Boss' has achieved epic proportions, where we have seen that it has become a part of people's daily lives. One of the biggest advantages is its ability to cut across people of all age groups. We are certain that we will be able to replicate the success and recreate the unpredictability of this format on the silver screen as well," Deepak Dhar, CEO, Endemol India, said in a statement.

Nitin Tej Ahuja, director, Select Media Holdings Pvt Ltd, feels "Bigg Boss" has a great cinematic potential.

" 'Bigg Boss' is one of the most popular entertainment properties in India, and therefore a perfect fit for us as a production house focused on quality commercial cinema," said Ahuja.

"As a concept and a format, 'Bigg Boss' inherently has a fabulous cinematic potential and we are looking forward to working with Endemol India in bringing this very exciting property to the big screen," he added.

The cast of the film is being finalised and the makers have approached some of the contestants from the previous seasons of the reality show.

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'Bollywood filled void in Turkish film industry's bleakest days'

'Bollywood filled void in Turkish film industry's bleakest days'
IANS  [ Mon, Nov 26, 2012 ] Panaji, Nov 26 (IANS) In the dark bleak days of Turkish cinema, when film making virtually rolled to a stop, it was Bollywood which occupied the mindspace of the Turkish filmgoers, leading director M. Tayfur Aydin said Monday.

Aydin's film "Do not forget me Istanbul" is playing at the 43rd International Film Festival of India (IFFI), as part of the 'Country Focus' section on Turkey and its cinema.

"Turkey was at one point the third largest film producing country, after Hollywood and Bollywood. And Bollywood movies were shown in Turkey in the 1980s. There was nothing else to show, Bollywood became an entertainment during these dark days of Turkish cinema, from 1980 to 1993, where there were just 5 or 6 movies a year," he said.

Bollywood, he said, had learnt the rare art of presenting cinema intellectually as well as with emotion.

"When you prepare to serious present art, you go about it very intellectually. But soon you realize that emotions are important too. And Bollywood seems to know that somehow, they know the formulas," he said, adding that Turkey needed to be "inspired" by such cinema.

The 'Country Focus' section intends to promote a greater understanding of the traditions and cultures of the focused country's society through handpicked cinema from the culture in this case that of Turkey.

The Country Focus package at this IFFI has eight films which includes names films like Aydin's "Do Not Forget Me Istanbul", "Hidden Lives", "Love and Revolution", "The Son", "The Stranger", "Trace", "Voice of My Father" and "Where the Fire Burns".

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Changes in Bollywood here to stay: Karan Johar

Mumbai, Nov 27 (IANS) Filmmaker Karan Johar, who has been a part of Bollywood for 18 years, backs corporatisation of the industry and believes the positive changes it has brought about are "here to stay".

"There has been so much change. The work ethics, the working style, the atmosphere, the system... I think we finally have a sense of corporatisation, a sense of structure and discipline. These things have worked their way to the entertainment business and are here to stay," Karan told IANS.

Having entered the industry as an assistant diretor, Karan made his directorial debut with "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai" in 1998. He went on to make hit films like "Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham", "Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna" and "My Name is Khan".

His last directorial was the youthful "Student Of The Year". The 40-year-old firmly believes a filmmaker's movie reflects who he really is.

"I think you make the movies which you are all about. So if you are relevant and intelligent and creative, you manage to do all of that (in the film too)," he said.

Karan delivered three successful productions this year - "Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu", "Agneepath" and "Student of the Year" - and he is content.

"It has been a fantastic year. To have a three on three record is always a great thing. To be successful in everything that you have ever attempted is something which we are very happy about," he said.

"We feel very validated and grateful to the audience and to the people who have believed in us," he added.

Having launched so many young talents into the industry, Karan is deeply attached to each one of them and almost treats them as family.

"I feel that all the first time directors and actors who have been launched by Dharma Productions are members of the family and my kids. So when their work comes, I feel like I have gone to a concert with my child and I hope that everyone gives them an applause," he said.

Talking about his future plans, he said: "Nothing has been structured or fructified at the moment. I am on my way to make my annual trip just to kind of feel creative and go and write what I want to make next. (But) Nothing concrete as of now."

View the original article here

'Dabangg 2' soundtrack lives up to 'Dabangg' spirit

Film: 'Dabangg 2'; Music Director: Sajid-Wajid; Lyricists: Jalees Sherwani, Irshad Kamil and Sameer; Singers: Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Shreya Ghoshal, Mamta Sharma, Wajid, Keerthi Sagathia, Sonu Nigam, Tulsi Kumar, Sukhwinder Singh; Rating: ***

Chulbul Pandey is back with a bang. The soundtrack of "Dabangg 2" is a musical delight with five original songs and three remixed tracks, composed by the powerhouse duo Sajid-Wajid. The songs are penned by three different lyricists.

The album kicks off with "Dagabaaz re", a romantic number true to the spirit of "Tere mast mast do nain" from the original 2008 film. Rahat Fateh Ali Khan adds the Sufi touch, while Shreya Ghoshal mesmerises with her melodious voice like always. The song is simple and its lilting composition instantly hits you. One hopes it would be a visual treat as well.

Next up is "Pandeyjee seeti", which looks like a follow-up to chartbuster "Munni badnaam hui". It features Malaika Arora Khan, and her magic is expected to work again! Queen of item songs, singer Mamta Sharma croons to glory in this number and she is supported well by Wajid and Shreya Ghoshal.

The song also takes a cue from yesteryears' hit "Chalat musafir moh liyo re". Definitely not of the finest tracks in the album but is nice nonetheless. It also has a remix version, which is racy but doesn't work too well with the listener.

Getting into the desi mode, "Fevicol se" is a typical crude item number that will surely get loads of whistles, especially as it has been picturised on Kareena Kapoor. The lyrics are raunchy and a bit hilarious, but will surely work with most sections of the audience. Mamta renders the Bhojpuri feel and is joined by Wajid and Keerthi Sagathia. It also has a remix version which has some good techno beats and it is as entertaining as the original.

"Saanson ne" changes the mood of the album and gets the listener into the romantic mode again. There is nothing special about the track as it sounds like any other romantic number. One gets hugely disappointed, especially since it has Sonu Nigam behind the mic. The composition is ordinary and even with the support of Tulsi Kumar; this duet fails to move you at all.

"Dabangg reloaded" rounds up the album. Sajid-Wajid have tried to recreate the magic of "Hud hud dabangg" and they manage to succeed to a limit. Sukhwinder Singh, with his high octane energy, manages to create a stir. A heavy use of percussions is also commendable. The use of the saxophone in the end is also quite nice and doesn't seem out of place.

There is, however, nothing too great about the remix versions of the song. It is definitely a passe and should be avoided.

Overall, the album scores well with the original tracks as most of them appeal to the listener. It's however a miss as far as remixes are concerned. If one ignores that and considers the huge fan base that Salman Khan has, there is no denying that despite its shortcomings, the album will still be a hit.

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Get your hands on 'Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2012' apparel

Get your hands on 'Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2012' apparel
IANS  [ Tue, Nov 27, 2012 ]
SA Re Ga Ma Pa Provogue Fashion Show.Click here for more pictures
New Delhi, Nov 27 (IANS) An exclusive clothing line for Zee TV's flagship music reality show "Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2012" has been launched in association with apparel brand Provogue.

With licensing becoming an integral form of marketing and brand extension, the channel decided to announce an exclusive clothing line to engage its viewers further.

"'Sa Re Ga Ma Pa' is a cult programme on Indian television which, over the last 18 years, has generated a huge following. The programme is iconic in its appeal. Our partnership with Provogue has led to building an even stronger relationship with our viewer base," Akash Chawla, Head - Marketing, National Channels, ZEEL, said in a statement.

Provogue is the official wardrobe partner of "Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2012", and the brand has designed a clothing line that reflects the multi-faceted persona of the contestants. The exclusive apparel range will retail in 131 Provogue outlets across the country.

The launch comes after the channel managed a successful collaboration with sportswear brand Reebok for its show "Dance India Dance".

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Kavita turns funny, bubbly for 'Tota Weds Maina'?

Kavita turns funny, bubbly for 'Tota Weds Maina'?
IANS  [ Tue, Nov 27, 2012 ] Mumbai, Nov 27 (IANS) Television actress Kavita Kaushik, popularly known as Chandramukhi Chautala of "F.I.R.", has been roped in to play the lead in yet another comedy.

According to the reports, the show is called "Tota Weds Maina" and it will be aired on SAB TV, which also shows "F.I.R.".

"Hi guys, okay who all wanna see me in a totally new, fresh, fun and sweet role... looking pretty doing absolutely hilarious romance?" Kavita tweeted.

"Yes that's the surprise, be ready totally bubbly and 'mastikhor' Maina coming your way," she posted.

The actress, who has been the part of television industry for over a decade, got her due with "F.I.R". Her Haryanavi accent and great comic skills in the show won her both accolades and awards.

View the original article here

Low-key publicity for 'Talaash' was deliberate

Low-key publicity for 'Talaash' was deliberate
Subhash K.Jha  [ Tue, Nov 27, 2012 ] Mumbai, Nov 27 (IANS) Aamir Khan is known for extensive and innovative marketing of his films but his forthcoming movie "Talaash", releasing Friday, was being under-promoted until last week. Director Reema Kagti says it was deliberate.

"We are sandwiched between 'Jab Tak Hai Jaan' and 'Son Of Sardaar' on one Friday and 'Khiladi 786' on the next Friday. All these three are big extravagantly-hyped films. We had two choices - either we made ourselves heard louder than these biggies, which was impossible; or we spoke in a much quieter tone than our competition. We've chosen the latter option," said Kagti.

"Also because we can't speak too much about the film without giving away the suspense," she added.

Meanwhile, the filmmakers are preparing for another fight.

The sms rogues are trying to give away the suspense in "Talaash". Among the messages being sent out, one claims that Aamir, who plays a police officer, is also the murderer in the movie.

However, spoilers on sms and the internet purporting to give away the suspense in "Talaash", are not affecting the director.

"I'd get seriously worried if any of these spoilers were anywhere near the truth. But they're way off the mark. So I am not really bothered," she said.

"Talaash" also features Rani Mukerji and Kareena Kapoor.

View the original article here

New age TV actresses break fair skin beauty myth

New Delhi, Nov 27 (IANS) It's talent over fair skin for TV show producers, who prefer dusky beauties like Hina Khan, Kratika Sengar and Mitali Nag. In a welcome trend, these actresses have broken the fairness-is-the-only-beauty-mantra myth by not just becoming popular but also fetching high TRPs for their respective shows.

Hina-starrer "Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai" recently completed 1,000 episodes, while Kratika's "Punar Vivah" is notching high TRPs.

"For us, when we cast any actress, it is more important for us to see that she fits the character and is a good actor. Complexion doesn't really matter at that moment. It is 'mind' over beauty now," said Suzana Ghai, fiction head, Star Plus.

Other dusky actresses who are ruling the TRP charts are Gulki Joshi in "Phir Subah Hogi", Mitali in "Afsar Bitiya", Sakshi Tanwar in "Bade Acche Lagte Hai", Niaa Sharma in "Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behna Hai" and Deepika Singh in "Diya Aur Bati Hum".

"Today if people see Sandhya (Deepika), Akshara (Hina) and Maanvi (Niaa), they see them as characters they play and their complexion doesn't really matter," Ghai told IANS.

This new change is surely encouraging, said Mitali, who faced rejection in real life due to her darker complexion.

"It is good to see that the perception is gradually changing, though it hasn't changed completely. It is encouraging for girls who used to get sidelined due to their complexion. I, too, was rejected so many times," said Mitali.

"I feel things happen when they are supposed to happen. I feel that the role of Krishna was tailor-made for me," she added.

The choice of actors largely depends upon the requirements of a script, according to Wasim Sabir, who is helming "Phir Subah Hogi".

"We should really not differentiate between fairer complexion or dusky complexion because Indian skin colour is naturally dark. However, the reason behind roping in dusky actresses depends upon the requirement of the script," Sabir told IANS.

"If you have to show a village girl, then you have to cast someone who can bring that authenticity to the character. When we get on to cast, it is very important for us that people should connect with actors," he added.

Writer Purnendu Shekhar agreed: "Our lead actress in 'Balika Vadhu', Pratyusha Banerjee, is dusky, but she fits the character completely and has built a strong connect with the viewers."

Continued on next page...

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'Talaash' one of most sensitive performances: Kareena

'Talaash' one of most sensitive performances: Kareena
IANS  [ Tue, Nov 27, 2012 ] Mumbai, Nov 27 (IANS) Kareena Kapoor played a sex worker in "Chameli" and does so again for "Talaash", a role she describes as amongst her most sensitive and powerful.

"I play a prostitute, who is kind of an escort. It's a very deep character. I have hopefully achieved a sensitive performance. It's by far one of my most sensitive performances, I believe," Kareena told IANS ahead of the release of "Talaash" this Friday.

Her role in "Chameli" cannot be compared with what she has portrayed in "Talaash", says Kareena, who will be seen sharing the screen with Aamir Khan and Rani Mukerji in the thriller.

" 'Chameli' was totally different. It was very raw. The lingo and the language, body language and the outfit - everything was different. Here from head to toe, the performance, and everything is different," she said, adding that she signed on the dotted line for "Talaash" because it allowed her to work with Aamir again.

"I don't look at the project with commercial aspect. I wanted to work with Reema (Kagti) and wanted to work with Aamir again. I loved the role that was offered to me. This is one of the most powerful roles that I have done," she said.

"Reema comes across as a very strong director and a strong personality, but when you get to know her, she is a very sensitive girl and that is what she has brought about in her actors and in her film," Kareena said about her director.

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Fascinating Fact

By WENN.com | Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Harry Potter star Daniel Radcliffe is finally embracing the age of social networking - he's set to launch his own page on Google+, reports MTV.com. The British actor has previously refrained from joining Twitter or Facebook in a bid to protect his privacy.

View the original article here

Jason Isaacs: 'I want to be a Bond baddie'

The British actor spent the best part of a decade playing devious Lucius Malfoy in the Potter films and he tells WENN he'd love a shot at following Javier Bardem, who plays Skyfall's evil mastermind Raoul Silva.

He says, "I'd love to be a Bond villain. I've never been approached and I've never been available... I was signed up to Harry Potter for years and other things but I would do it in a heartbeat, particularly because I'm a big fan of Daniel Craig's; I think he's a terrific Bond."

And Isaacs insists such casting would make for an interesting side story: "Dan and I played lovers for a year onstage at the National Theatre in London in Angels in America, so it might be the perfect bookend for our screen relationship.

"That was possibly the artistic highlight of my life; I don't know if he would say the same thing."

It appears Craig does have some weight with the Bond bosses - he suggested they hire Sam Mendes as director for Skyfall after an exchange with the fellow Brit at a party.

But Isaacs doesn't appear to be the favourite to play a Bond villain among film fans - Gary Oldman topped a recent Fandango poll to find the actor 007 devotees would most like to see up against the superspy.

He beat out Oscar winners Daniel Day-Lewis and Christoph Waltz, Viggo Mortensen and Charlize Theron.

Kevin Spacey, who also recently expressed a desire to portray a Bond baddie, also made the top 10 alongside Russell Crowe, Steve Buscemi, Tilda Swinton and Daniel Craig's real-life wife Rachel Weisz.

Meanwhile, in a related poll, Gert Frobe's Goldfinger has topped a new list of the best Bond villains.

The German star's devious mastermind beat out Donald Pleasance's Blofeld from You Only Live Twice and Richard Kiel's metal-toothed monster Jaws from Moonraker and The Spy Who Loved Me.

Christopher Walken's Max Zorin and Christopher Lee's Scaramanga also made the top five.

View the original article here

Scarlett Johansson got Hitchcock tips from Jamie Lee Curtis

The Avengers star was keen to make sure her latest role in the upcoming film, which examines the story behind the Alfred Hitchcock horror classic Pyscho, was as accurate as possible, but there was no way to meet with and study Leigh because the movie icon passed away eight years ago.

So Johansson called upon her actress daughter for advice on how to get into character.

She tells U.S. breakfast show Today, "I just think more than anything it must be very strange to have somebody play your mother, and especially someone as beloved and celebrated as Janet. I just wanted to reach out and Jamie was lovely, she sent beautiful photographs and gave me some wonderful stories."

Lee Curtis recently saw the finished product and praised the 28 year old's ability to capture her mum's "sweetness", and Johansson admits she could receive no greater compliment.

She adds, "As an actor, it's the most rewarding thing you could hear. It was such a wonderful communication that I was fortunate enough to be able to have, and of course Janet was first and foremost a loving, loving mother and wife and she (Jamie Lee) reiterated that."

View the original article here

The things they say

By WENN.com | Tuesday, November 27, 2012

"We've got it down. We're migratory workers and we go where the work is and we like travelling." Brad Pitt insists on moving his family around the world while he and his fiancee Angelina Jolie work on location.

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Oscar-nominated producer John Kemeny dies

He died on Friday (23Nov12) in Sedona, Arizona after a long illness.

Born in Hungary, Kemeny moved to Canada in 1957 and two years later began working at the National Film Board as an editor, producer, and writer.

He gained notoriety in 1980 for Susan Sarandon film Atlantic City, which received five Academy Awards nominations. His other movie credits include Quest for Fire, Ice Castles, Don’t Let the Angels Fall, The Apprenticeship Of Duddy Kravitz, featuring Richard Dreyfuss, and The Boy in Blue, starring Nicolas Cage.

He was also nominated for two Primetime Emmy Awards, one for 1989 TV special Murderers Among Us: The Simon Wiesenthal Story and again for The Josephine Baker Story in 1991, the same year he was honoured by bosses at the Academy of Canadian Cinema & Television with a special achievement trophy at the Genie Awards.

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Kristen Stewart, 'Dexter,' and More: 13 Best Movie and TV Nude Scenes of 2012

We've already shared with you our favorite TV shows, singles, and books of 2012. But we know what the Internet demands. So, for your viewing pleasure, we've rounded up our 13 favorite nude scenes from television and films this year. Risqué, surprising, and sexy, these were the scenes that left our tongues wagging — for more reason than one. Start reading the list below, and click through to see our favorite nude scenes featuring Kristen Stewart, Chris Hemsworth and more!

We'd point to Magic Mike's innumerable Xquisite butt shots, but we prefer to be equal opportunity here. Mike's (Channing Tatum) opening nude scene with on again off again girlfriend Joanna (Olivia Munn) was such an eyeful, we began to wish their clothes could be as off again as their relationship.

NEXT: The Vampire Vamps

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It's Jimi Hendrix's Birthday, 'Scuse Us While We Celebrate With 70 Words of His Wisdom

By Kelsea Stahler , Hollywood.com Staff | Tuesday, November 27, 2012 Jimi Hendrix may have left us in Sept. 1970, but his presence is still felt every time his music fills a room.  The music legend would have been 70 today, and in celebration of his legacy, we've compiled exactly 70 words of wisdom from the revolutionary guitarist. Of course, no Hendrix tribute would be complete without a soundtrack, so while you enjoy his sage thoughts, feast your ears on one of his greatest musical accomplishments.
"I don't really live on compliments. As a matter of fact, I find them distracting." —Hendrix during an interview on The Dick Cavett Show in 1969
Total Word Count: 15

"Even castles made of sand fall into the sea eventually." —Lyrics from "Castles Made of Sand"
New Total Word Count: 25

"I'm the one who has to die when it's time for me to die/ So let me live my life the way I want to." —Lyrics from "If 6 was 9"
New Total Word Count: 50

"When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace." —Hendrix*
New Total Word Count (so close!): 65

"Knowledge speaks, but wisdom listens." —Hendrix*
New Total Word Count: 7-0 (Ta-da!)

*These quotes are widely attributed to Hendrix, though many people note the similarities to quotes by William Gladstone and Oliver Wendell Holmes, respectively, and have suggested Hendrix's word were inspired by them.

Follow Kelsea on Twitter @KelseaStahler

[Photo Credit: Wenn]

More:
'The Hunger Games: Catching Fire' First Look: The Quarter Quell Begins! — PICS
Cory and Topanga Are In! 'Girl Meets World' Pilot Nabs Danielle Fishel, Ben Savage
Staff Picks: The 14 Best Songs of 2012 (And 5 We'd Like to Forget)

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Fascinating fact

By WENN.com | Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Harry Potter star Daniel Radcliffe is finally embracing the age of social networking - he's set to launch his own page on Google+, reports MTV.com. The British actor has previously refrained from joining Twitter or Facebook in a bid to protect his privacy.

View the original article here

Dare You - Preview

Rani Dewan, comes from Kashmir to study in Pune University. Her talent and her charisma makes her the blue eyed girl of the campus. The college band absorbs her with open arms and soon their band becomes a group to reckon with.

The journey of Rani, undergoes a roller coaster ride and the revelations get shocking.

Rani 'DARES YOU' to witness her challenges

View the original article here

Dehradun Diary - Preview

In the era of large scale corruption, where everyone seated on a chair that holds power is lying neck deep in corruption, exist unlikely heroes. Ordinary people who put up an extraordinary fight. People who become epitome of 'standing for your rights'.

Preeti, a free spirited daughter of Sadgun Thakur , is in love with Anshul, son of an IAS officer. Their match isn't acceptable to Preeti's family and in a fit of rage Preeti's brother kills Anshul for his family. And this is where the story begins.

Having lost their young son, the parents of Anshul, Mr and Mrs Sharma are there on confronted by the corrupt system. They can't match steps with Thakur's political powers and ways to shield his son. However, encouraged and supported by Anshul's younger brother Akash, the old couple makes a resolve- to fight, fight till they get justice.

The film is the journey of the mother who has lost the child she once held in her hands and dreamt of an old age holding his hands.

It's the journey of a brother who could have focused on his career, his future, yet decides to give it all up so that never again a brother loses his 'bhai' to an act of rage.

It's also the journey of a soulmate who loses herself after the loss so much so that she takes any path she is guided to. Even turns supportive of her own brother when faced with legality but at the end the unadulterated power of love brings her to the threshold and she stands for the right.

Dehraadun Diary is a much needed film about the strength in common man, the fury that loss lends you and fearlessness that come only with unconditional love.

View the original article here

Celebs At Launch of Limited Edition Guess DJ TIesto Collection

E-mail us Contact us Advertisements   Terms & Privacy Policies Copyright © 2012 INFOCON, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

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Ajab Gazabb Love - Review by Mansha Rastogi

The biggest advantage of having your father producing every film of yours is that you get launched each time, you get to play the central character, you get all emotions to portray, you get to look hot and happening, you get song and dance and lots more. Jackky Bhagnani is that lucky son who gets re-launched for the third time by his father Vashu Bhagnani with Ajab Gazabb Love.

Now technically, re-launch isn't the right term for his last film F.A.L.T.U's surprising success had established Jackky as an actor in the industry. However, one only has to see the film and the massive indulgence on the lead protagonist to realize the adulation of the doting father over his son.

So Ajab Gazabb Love shows Jackky playing the heir to a billion-dollar automobile empire Rajveer Grewal, who has it all, a loving family, riches of the world, and a dream job of designing cars. He fall head-over-heels in love with Madhuri (Nidhi Subbaiah), who strongly detests the rich class and thinks that the rich become richer by exploiting the poor. Dismayed by her loathe for rich people, Rajveer decides to give it all up and pretend to be the 'poorest of the poor' in order to win her affection and love.

After a Hollywood rip off F.A.L.T.U, producer Vashu Bhagnani chooses to remake a Telugu sweeper hit Seema Tapakai. He ropes in the director of Dhoom and Dhoom 2, Sanjay Gadhvi and ensures great amounts of humour by adding popular actors like Kiron Kher and Darshan Jariwala. But where he fails is in assuring a good script.

The entire film is almost like a give away with the extreme predictability making you guess the story even before it unfurls in front of you. Moreover, the execution of the story is very amateurish as if only to bring the film to a certain point.

There's a lot of indulgence on the producer's son in the film. From excessive focus, to song and dance to even shooting those songs in picturesque foreign locations, Vashu Bhagnani seem to have done it all. But all those elements instead only add as a deterrent to the film.

What works however, is the humour of the character actors. Both Kirron Kher and Darshan Jariwala are crackling in their parts. Their acting as that of fake poor people is hilarious and has you in splits each time they come on the screen. Some scenes that deserve a special mention are Kirron Kher's long monologue as the blind poor mother and the Banana selling scene of Darshan Jariwala.

Music by Sajid-Wajid is catchy but gets pointlessly placed in the film.

To sum it up, Ajab Gazabb Love is a decent one-time watch for those looking for some time pass.

View the original article here

Aamir is Indian cinema's game changer: KJo

Aamir is Indian cinema's game changer: KJo
IANS  [ Sat, Nov 24, 2012 ] Mumbai, Nov 24 (IANS) Filmmaker Karan Johar says actor-producer Aamir Khan is a game changer in Indian cinema, given his bouquet of unique, yet mainstream films.

"I think Aamir Khan is a game changer. Many of his decisions have made him pioneer the movement of great and yet mainstream cinema," Karan said here Friday at the screening of "Strangers In The Night", a short film by his Dharma Productions in collaboration with Chivas.

Elucidating his point, the 40-year-old said: "I think his endeavour starting from 2001 in 'Lagaan' going to the urban 'Dil Chahta Hai' to the pathbreaking 'Rang De Basanti' to his own directorial 'Taare Zameen Par', to every film he has made post that, he has always broken ground and done something different and yet catered to the mainstream."

"I think Aamir Khan is what you call the quintessential game changer of the film fraternity in India," he added.

Aamir's upcoming film is thriller "Talaash", which releases Nov 30. It also features Kareena Kapoor and Rani Mukerji. His last film was "Dhobi Ghat" in 2011, while he was also seen in a dance number in "Delhi Belly" the same year.

As for Karan, he is happily backing his short film, directed by Shakun Batra. Karan believes technology will boost the popularity of short films.

"This is a new, interesting vertical and today, in these technological times, this concept of short films will grow," he said.

View the original article here

Aanjjan Srivastav happy to play detective Wagle

Aanjjan Srivastav happy to play detective Wagle
IANS  [ Fri, Nov 23, 2012 ] Mumbai, Nov 23 (IANS) The popular 1988-television show "Wagle Ki Duniya" is back on the small screen with actor Aanjjan Srivastav as a detective in the new show.

Titled "Detective Wagle", the show went on air Nov 21 on Doordarshan and Aanjjan says age is not a hindrance in playing the role.

"It's not necessary to be young. There are detectives of my age, I have seen them. Detection is not an action-packed job, it is done from here (the brain)," the 64-year-old said here Thursday on the sets of the show.

"Wagle Ki Duniya" was based on the characters written by cartoonist R.K. Laxman. Actress Bharti Achrekar played Wagle's wife Radhika in the old show, while Sulbha Arya takes over in the new show.

Srivastav says he missed the show and the crew a lot.

"Yes, I did miss it. Especially the team - R.K. Laxman, Kundan, and Ravi Ojha. I am missing Ravi very much... He had strung together everything, he is unwell," he said.

"Detective Wagle" comes every Wednesday and Thursday 9:30 p.m.

View the original article here

Aamir is Indian cinema's game changer: KJo

Aamir is Indian cinema's game changer: KJo
IANS  [ Sat, Nov 24, 2012 ] Mumbai, Nov 24 (IANS) Filmmaker Karan Johar says actor-producer Aamir Khan is a game changer in Indian cinema, given his bouquet of unique, yet mainstream films.

"I think Aamir Khan is a game changer. Many of his decisions have made him pioneer the movement of great and yet mainstream cinema," Karan said here Friday at the screening of "Strangers In The Night", a short film by his Dharma Productions in collaboration with Chivas.

Elucidating his point, the 40-year-old said: "I think his endeavour starting from 2001 in 'Lagaan' going to the urban 'Dil Chahta Hai' to the pathbreaking 'Rang De Basanti' to his own directorial 'Taare Zameen Par', to every film he has made post that, he has always broken ground and done something different and yet catered to the mainstream."

"I think Aamir Khan is what you call the quintessential game changer of the film fraternity in India," he added.

Aamir's upcoming film is thriller "Talaash", which releases Nov 30. It also features Kareena Kapoor and Rani Mukerji. His last film was "Dhobi Ghat" in 2011, while he was also seen in a dance number in "Delhi Belly" the same year.

As for Karan, he is happily backing his short film, directed by Shakun Batra. Karan believes technology will boost the popularity of short films.

"This is a new, interesting vertical and today, in these technological times, this concept of short films will grow," he said.

View the original article here

Aanjjan Srivastav happy to play detective Wagle

Aanjjan Srivastav happy to play detective Wagle
IANS  [ Fri, Nov 23, 2012 ] Mumbai, Nov 23 (IANS) The popular 1988-television show "Wagle Ki Duniya" is back on the small screen with actor Aanjjan Srivastav as a detective in the new show.

Titled "Detective Wagle", the show went on air Nov 21 on Doordarshan and Aanjjan says age is not a hindrance in playing the role.

"It's not necessary to be young. There are detectives of my age, I have seen them. Detection is not an action-packed job, it is done from here (the brain)," the 64-year-old said here Thursday on the sets of the show.

"Wagle Ki Duniya" was based on the characters written by cartoonist R.K. Laxman. Actress Bharti Achrekar played Wagle's wife Radhika in the old show, while Sulbha Arya takes over in the new show.

Srivastav says he missed the show and the crew a lot.

"Yes, I did miss it. Especially the team - R.K. Laxman, Kundan, and Ravi Ojha. I am missing Ravi very much... He had strung together everything, he is unwell," he said.

"Detective Wagle" comes every Wednesday and Thursday 9:30 p.m.

View the original article here

1920 - Evil Returns - Review by Mansha Rastogi

It isn't too much of a rocket science to expect Vikram Bhatt to make a sequel of 1920. After all, among the last few horror films of his, 1920 has been one of his most celebrated works. The film that released four years ago starring Rajneesh Duggal and Adah Sharma was quite an engrossing fair making it worthy enough to be turned into a franchise.

Although in terms to the story there may not be any relevance between the sequel 1920 Evil Returns to its predecessor but the elements of possession, revenge, romance etc all remains the same. Titled on the year on which it is based, the film revolves around Jaidev Varma (Aftab Shivdasani), a poet, who lives a life of a loner courtesy his unrequited love. He only has a sister Karuna (Vidya Malvade) to call his own until he stumbles upon Smruti (Tia Bajpai) ashore a lake. He feels and instant connects with her and brings her home only to realize that she is possessed. She has lost her memory and doesn't understand what possesses her body. Jaidev is hell bent on saving her life and wants to unearth the reasons that got her to this condition. There comes out a past that leaves him aghast! Will he save Smruti from the evil riding her body or not follows through the rest of the plot.

Vikram Bhatt who made the engaging predecessor commits every possible wrong in its sequel. The (barring the locations) fails to justify the year in which it is set. Neither the characters nor their dialogues or costumes do justice to the year 1920. Instead he ends up making it appear farce.

There is too much back story to the plot and the non linear narrative of moving back and forth in time only makes it all the more verbose and tedious. Even the romantic angle comes across as too much of a cliche with Aftab acting like a lovesick pup almost all the time.

In any supernatural thriller, having some nail biting, nerve chilling scenes are a must have. However, Vikram Bhatt's 1920 Evil Returns only makes you laugh out loud. There are far too many LOL moments in the film especially when the actors mouth dialogues. Some lines that really need to be listed are, "Jisne mere geet ko sangeet diya hai uske liye Sangeeta se acha aur kya naam ho sakta hai?" or even "Kabristan se parinda (crow) utha hai, iska matlab koi atma uthegi."

Aftab Shivdasani looks glum almost in the entire film but acts decent for his role. Vidya Malvade who plays Aftab's sister in the film could actually give some chills with her cakey make up, blue eyes and hairdo. Tia Bajpai is good as she essays out the all the gory scenes well.

Music which has otherwise been a key element in 1920 gets used in a similar fashion but lacks the punch. Composed by Chirantan Bhatt, the music doesn't grow on you rather only annoy you owing to the banal lyrics like 'tum bhi tanhaa ho hum bhi tanhaa hain dono roney lagey!'

To sum it up, 1920 Evil Returns neither engages you nor scares you. The film ends up turning into a comedy instead.

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Focus on pop, independent music, suggests Raghav

Mumbai, Nov 23 (IANS) Canada-based Indian singer Raghav Mathur, who lent his voice to "Ishq shava" in "Jab Tak Hai Jaan", hopes that the Indian entertainment industry realises that there is more to music than just Bollywood.

"The music is amazing, however, the lack of a pop industry and independent artists creates an unhealthy monopoly that can only stunt the future of great artists India has to offer. I hope the Indian entertainment wakes up and realises there is life beyond Bollywood," he told IANS.

Best known for his single "Angel eyes", he has also given popular songs like "So Confused", "Can't get enough" and "It can't be right".

Having said that, he is enjoying his stint in Bollwyood and says that his dream was to work with Oscar winning composer A.R. Rahman and veteran lyricist Gulzar. Thanks to "Jab Tak Hai Jaan" song, picturised on Shah Rukh Khan and Katrina Kaif, he has managed to fulfil his wish.

"I have met Gulzarji before on a flight to London and mentioned to him then that there were only three people on the earth I truly wished to collaborate with - A.R. Rahman, he himself and Stevie Wonder... In one track I've hit two out of three," he said.

"This ('Ishq shava') is Rahman's music and concept, however, he encouraged me to bring what I can," he added.

"Ishq shava" is Raghav's first playback number and he enjoyed the experience.

"It was kind of nice not writing a song for once and changing roles a bit. As a playback singer you often come in much later in the process than when I'm writing or conceptualising from scratch. It gave me a different perspective and hopefully the song a fresher feel," he said.

Talking about his voice he said it would be suitable for new generation.

"While growing up abroad there are only two (actors) you truly dream of working with - SRK and of course, Amitabh Bachchan. However, I think my voice and styling could offer a new voice to a new generation," he said.

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Ghanchakkar - Preview

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  Emraan plays the title character in Ghanchakkar - a suave safe-cracker who likes the finer things in life. He decides to pull off one last heist which leads to unexpected confusion and chaos. The question is does he get out of it without losing it and who is conning who? Is Ghanchakkar really Ghanchakkar?

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'Indian Idol 6' singers launch album

'Indian Idol 6' singers launch album
IANS  [ Fri, Nov 23, 2012 ] New Delhi, Nov 23 (IANS) The top four voices of reality show "Indian Idol 6" launched their album "Indian Idol-Fabulous Four" Friday evening with a live performance here.

Finalists of the TV show -- Amit Kumar, Devendra Pal Singh, Vipul Mehta and Poorvi Koutish -- have sung in the album besides playback singers Shaan, Mauli Dave, Shilpa Rao and Rekha Bhardwaj. The songs have been composed by Shameer Tandon and written by Sameer.

The album, brought out by Universal Music India, is a first of its kind, where not just the winner, but all finalists are part of the compilation.

"The album holds a special place for all four of us. With such big names giving their voice, it becomes unforgettable," Vipul told IANS.

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Jab Tak Hai Jaan - Review by Mansha Rastogi

He breathed life in romance, he showed human emotions and their complexities in purest form, he captured boundless love, and he portrayed unconditional passion. Although, the legendary filmmaker Yash Chopra is not with us today but he definitely immortalized romance through his works; he immortalized himself through his works. Jab Tak Hai Jaan being his last directorial and also his posthumous work shall remain special to all cinema lovers. However, stripping ourselves off all attachments we give you the review of Jab Tak Hai Jaan.

Samar Anand, Major of the Indian Army's bomb squad, cheats death in the eye. He diffuses bomb sans any protection suit and lives to die each day. He meets the sprightly 21 year old documentary filmmaker Akira (Anushka Sharma) interning at the Discovery channel who somehow doesn't understand the hidden emotions behind Samar. She comes across his diary that has he documented his life since the first time he met Meera (Katrina Kaif). The film then goes onto a flashback into the story of Samar and Meera. Set against the backdrop of London, we are taken to the lives of the happy go lucky Samar who falls madly in love with the beautiful Meera. However, fate has it the other way and the two do not meet until Akira comes in Samar's life only to take him back by 10 years, into the life of Meera all over again.

With gazillion romantic films have made their way to the celluloid in the 100 years of Hindi cinema, it would be wrong to claim this film complete anew. There may be many times you would feel that it reminds you either of Dil Toh Pagal Hai or even Veer Zara. However, Yash Chopra brings about a certain new age freshness in his treatment of emotions which for a man his age to grasp is only but commendable. The way in which Samar casually reveals his feelings for Meera or even the way in which he commands her to depart after knowing they may have to part ways is are immensely laudable.

The first half is breezy, specially the romantic portions of Katrina Kaif and Shah Rukh Khan. Even the sequences of the stubble donned army officer Samar hold your attention. However, the crisis come in the second half where the film almost easily slips into predictable and cliched regions. The entire portion of amnesia is very '70s and done to death in Hindi cinema.

The length of the film is another major hindrance. Despite not having a saga like story, the duration of 3 hours given to the film is just too long. With the attention span of Indian audience diminishing with each passing film, a 3 hour long film only tests time. Some scenes could easily have been eliminated to make for a slick film especially the song Ishk Shava or the scene right before the interval.

However, the real strength of Jab Tak Hai Jaan comes in the basic root of the film. It's been a while since the audience has witness boundless romance and JTHJ serves just that. The passion and madness that comes with love gets captured well.

The biggest credit goes to Shah Rukh Khan who once again marks romance as his territory. The film rides completely on his shoulders. Katrina Kaif gets a very well written part which demands her to give a restrained performance completely covering her shortcomings. Anushka Sharma gets a chirpy and ebullient part however; she ends up overdoing a lot of it. Neetu Singh and Rishi Kapoor in guess appearance are endearing.

The power combo of A. R. Rahman, Gulzar and Yash Chopra doesn't quite work the magic in music for a lot of songs only adding up the run time, but it's Rahman's background score that adds tremendous value to the film. Cinematography by Anil Mehta is spellbinding. The sequences of Ladakh and London are beautifully shot.

To sum it up, Jab Tak Hai Jaan may not be a flawless film but it still makes for a decent love story. Yash Chopra may have gone, but he left romance in his works that shall be cherished forever; the man shall live forever!

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'Life of Pi' star Suraj Sharma takes college exam

'Life of Pi' star Suraj Sharma takes college exam
IANS  [ Fri, Nov 23, 2012 ] New Delhi, Nov 23 (IANS) Nineteen-year-old debutant Hollywood actor Suraj Sharma wrote his exam at St. Stephen's college here Friday even as his movie "Life of Pi" hit theatres across India.

"He was cleared Thursday and wrote his exam Friday," St. Stephen's principal Valson Thampu told IANS.

Sharma's appearance at his semester examinations was under a cloud since he lacked the requisite minimum attendance and had not submitted assignments as asked by the college authorities. He faced the threat of missing all his exams in case he was not issued the admit card by Delhi University before Friday.

Sharma is a first-year Philosophy (Honours) student at St. Stephen's College.

When asked as to how the college finally acquiesced to Sharma taking his exams, Thampu denied any knowledge. "These decisions are taken by others, not me. You will have to ask them," he said.

Sharma had already missed the first test, Hindi, as he was busy in the promotion tours of his film.

If he had not been allowed to write the exams, Sharma would have lost an entire year as he would have had to take admission into the same semester he had failed to complete.

"Life of Pi", based on Yann Martel's novel of the same name, is directed by Hongkong-based director Ang Lee and also stars actors Irrfan and Tabu besides Sharma.

Before Sharma, captain of India's under-19 World Cup winning team and a fellow Stephanian, Unmukt Chand, wasn't allowed to sit for his first year exams because he was short of attendance. Later, Delhi University permitted him to move to second year with the proviso that he would have to clear his first year exams along with the third and fourth semesters of second year.

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Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana - Review by Mansha Rastogi

For long Anurag Kashyap has been associated with gritty and brooding cinema that has had black humour if need be of entertainment. However, now is the time when he tries revamping his image with a savory that he offers to his fans Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana. Whether this sweet-spicy mix treat manages to win the audiences' heart remains to be seen.

Omi Khurana (Kunal Kapoor) believes in stash for cash but his attitude doesn't take him far. He easily gets embroiled in a mess courtesy the huge loan of 50, 000pounds from big goons Shenty and Menty in London. The only way out of the mess he is embroiled in is to run back to Punjab, his home town, lay his hands on some moolah and pay off his huge loans.

But his home turf isn't pleased with him either. Having ditched his family business years ago, that of running a dhaba, only to make big bucks in London, Omi had stolen a lot of money, drugged his Daarji (Vinod Nagpal), thrown a sorry note on his then girlfriend Harman's (Huma Qureshi) window and ran off. However, instead of the much expected wrath, Omi is welcomed back with open arms.

Back home, Omi tries fervently to extract the Khurana family's secret, the recipe of the famous 'Chicken Khurana'. The recipe is supposed to be the reason behind the family's once successful dhaba. However, the recipe is stuck in the minds of the now senile daarji who eventually passes away without sharing it with anyone and leaving behind a dhaba that's turned to ruins. Offered a handsome price of 1 crore for the Dhaba only if he brings the recipe of Chicken Khurana, Omi sets off on his quest to unearth the recipe of the popular chicken Khurana.

Filmmaker Sameer Sharma takes a very poetic approach towards this film. For a fairly simple plot, he takes way too long to narrate. While the second half has you in splits and keeps you glued, the first half is all about establishing the characters and the backdrop. As a result, the 2hrs 15mins run time ends up proving tedious to the viewer.

However, if you leave that aside, there's not a flaw for you to mention. Sameer scores an ace as far as the writing of the story is concerned. How a simple thing such as a recipe end up being a thread that holds all the plots together is immensely laudable.

Unlike the many who blindly romanticize Punjab and show the lush green pastures, the rich customs etc Sameer takes a very earthy and realistic approach towards capturing a small town of Punjab. The setting isn't the most pleasing but it surely is most convincing and realistic. Even his characters are a far cry from the happy go lucky Punjabis shown otherwise. They are rugged, uncouth, some crazy, senile, colourful yet warm and lovable.

Although, Huma Qureshi and Kunal Kapoor are the lead pair of the film and also do a decent job in essaying their parts, it's the character actors that take the cake this time and accentuate the humour of the plot. Actors like Vipin Sharma as Kehar Singh, Rajesh Sharma as Titu, Vinod Nagpal as Daarji, Dolly Ahluwalia as Buaji, and Rahul Bagga as Jeet among others portray their characters with utmost earnestly and fit the bill to the T.

Even the dialogues written by Sumit Bhateja deserve a special mention. They are raw and rustic and when mouthed by the ace actors, they end up leaving the audience in splits.

Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana, in short, is delectable feast if you ignore the minor flaws. It has a lot of humour and massive contagious Punjabiyat!

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Rajini's daughter Aishwarya finds it difficult to market films

Rajini's daughter Aishwarya finds it difficult to market films
IANS  [ Fri, Nov 23, 2012 ] Panaji, Nov 23 (IANS) This anecdote surely has the makings of one more Rajini joke, to add to one of the many which have had the country in splits off and on.

Life is so tough for young filmmakers, that even the legendary Rajinikanth's daughter Aishwarya is finding it difficult to push her films in the Hindi-speaking market, despite her father's pedigree and the power of the "Kolaveri Di" song, which rocked the youtube charts, "viralling" through the country and the world.

Speaking about the travails of young filmmakers in India at the 43rd International Film Festival of India (IFFI), Aishwarya said she found it difficult to market her Tamil and Telugu films in Hindi because of affordability factors.

"I approached satellite TV channels, but according to the law, a movie has to have a multiplex release to then premiere on TV. So even with my family background and the fact that the song I was associated with 'Kolaveri Di' went viral on the Internet, I struggle to spread my film," said Aishwarya, who's married to southern star Dhanush.

A video of Tamil-English song "Kolaveri Di" from the film "3", sung by Dhanush in a recording studio, went viral making it one of the most popular music videos of the decade.

Aishwarya, who already has three films to her credit, said her Tamil and Telugu films could not be marketed in Hindi because she could not afford it, even with her "background and family status".

And like her father, she claimed that the films she made were to entertain people in order to make them "forget their sorrows".

"People have the right to be entertained well and we have to give them something worthwhile," she said.

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Shahid - Preview

Shahid' is a work of fiction based on the fascinating true story of slain human rights activist & lawyer Shahid Azmi.

Accused of terrorist links, he was imprisoned under a draconian law before he went on to become a fearless lawyer.

The film traces the awe-inspiring journey of an impoverished citizen who became an unlikely messiah for human rights and an inspiring testament to the human spirit.

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Press Meet of Table No 21

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Shahrukh Khan At KidZania's Press Conference

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Son Of Sardar - Review by Mansha Rastogi

To all filmmakers trying desperately to use the magic formula that once worked in films like Wanted or Dabangg - PLEASE STOP! Considering Masala above all else and rehashing South films isn't what makes for a good film. And for Ajay Devgn it seems to be a process to juice out our Indian market to the most for so he conveniently opts for a South Film Maryada Ramanna directed by SS Rajamouli and gives it a Punjabi spin.

So much unlike the original, Son Of Sardaar is about Jassi (Ajay Devgn), a happy go lucky Sardar (of course) who leaves London to return to his heartland Punjab to claim his ancestral property. However, it isn't as normal a process as he thinks. He enters his village only to fuel a raging family-fuel spanning generations. Billu (Sanjay Dutt) the most powerful man of the village who is seeking revenge from the last torch-bearer of the Randhawa family stumbles upon Jassi, who is by then a good friend of Sukh (Sonakshi Sinha), Billu's sister for having met her in the train. Without realizing his true identity Billu, who is known for his hospitality, invites him over for lunch. Now as predictable as it can be, just because Billu adheres to the age old saying 'Atithi devo bhava', Jassi decides to stay put for his own safety. Whether Billu avenges his brother's death and breaks his oath of 25 years of not marrying his sweetheart Pammi (Juhi Chawla) or not follows through the rest of the plot.

Ashwini Dhir, who has films like One, Two, Three and Atithi Tum Kab Jaoge to his credit, deploys all possible tools that have made for masala entertainers in the past. However, shoving almost every formula makes this film a raucous and rancid ride. In a bid to show male machismo, he actually instills unrealistic fight sequences with people flying around, and I literally mean FLY, and getting beaten to pulp by the brawny Ajay Devgn. Over the top action takes a whole new level in this film.

Even the humour in the film ranges from banal, imbecile to utter stupid. Except for a few gags (especially in the first half) that have you in splits, there's absolutely no comedy whatsoever. While the first half at least comes across as a little breezy and moves at a reasonably fast pace, it's the second that is supremely long drawn and stretched beyond imagination.

The Punjabiyat shown in the film is replete with cliches, the dialogues being banal and the Sikh aspect used to the hilt. Every second sentence in the film is a definition on Sardar. The actors do not speak a single dialogue without saying Oye Pappe. Ajay Devgn is sprightly almost throughout the film, much to annoyance at times. Sanjay Dutt portrays his part well and his portions with Ajay Devgn make for some enjoyable gags.

Sonakshi Sinha once again gets used as a showpiece in the film without much to offer. Juhi Chawla looks her part well and plays it too, probably the only character portrayed best. Mukul Dev, Vindoo Dara Singh and Tanuja are average at best.

To sum it up, Son of Sardaar gets mired by cliches and formulas. In a bid to make for a mass entertainer it ends up being banal and mundane. Those who appreciate over the top, loud and raucous gags may enjoy this one too.

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Zoya-Reema - new Salim-Javed of Bollywood?

Zoya-Reema - new Salim-Javed of Bollywood?
IANS  [ Fri, Nov 23, 2012 ] Mumbai, Nov 23 (IANS) Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar are known as one of the best writer-duos in the Hindi film industry and it seems the latter's daughter Zoya is likely to repeat the same success story with writing partner Reema Kagti.

The legendary duo of Salim-Javed have written some cult films like "Zanjeer", "Sholay", "Don", and "Deewar", while Zoya-Reema have scripted together "Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara" and "Talaash".

Asked if she and Reema are the new Salim-Javed of the industry, Zoya said: "For that we will have to deliver around 25 blockbusters... There is no chance before that. Salim-Javed were amazing and we are very far away from that."

"When we write together then the ideas are very good and we finish the work soon. We both fight too much but we have immense trust and respect for each other. If she doesn't agree to certain things, I get a signal that there is some problem. We fight but it's not about our ego problem. I love working with her," added Zoya, 40.

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