Bollywood Features

Pink is dirty for Emraan Hashmi

2011-09-03 08:26:26

If you find Emraan Hashmi making a face next time you wear pink in front of him, don't be surprised. Ever being so fond of women, the man isn't thrilled to have feminine traits around him when he is alone. This was evident from one such experience where he was confined to a suite that had the colour pink all over it. "This happened during the shoot of Balaji's The Dirty Picture in Hyderabad", says a source close to Emraan. "As an extensive shooting schedule had been planned at the Ramoji Film City, independent suites were booked for both Emraan and Vidya at the most famous hotel within the Ramoji complex." Both Emraan and Vidya were left a tad amused when they saw the suites given to them. Emraan, in particular, was horrified to see his room having not just pink walls but pink ceilings because he thought it was way too girlie for his liking! "He would joke on the sets that he was feeling like a real Pinky. He is said to have approached the unit to shift him to a more normal room but the hotel was overbooked due to multiple shootings taking place at Ramoji Film City. There was no choice for Emraan but to live with the pink for nearly a week," the source continues. Emraan and Vidya were unavailable for comment. However, Milan Luthria, the film's director, confirmed the incident.

"The USP of Siddique is that he is a writer too" - Kareena Kapoor: Part 2

2011-09-03 09:45:42

Kareena Kapoor is in a very good mood at the Mehboob studios. Her film Bodyguard she reckons will break all box office records and she can't wait for her next biggie Ra.One to go release as well. In between all this, she travels to London for the launch of her wax statuette in Madame Tussauds on October 18. Then her most awaited film with her boyfriend Saif Ali Khan - Agent Vinod. She also makes it clear that her chemistry with Imran in Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu is going to be quite a hot one. With so much to talk about, including Madur Bhandarkar's Heroine, sitting right next to her I could sense something, and after a while it became quite clear that she is a woman whose emotions run close to the surface, and considering the tools she has been given to express those emotions - clear brown eyes, luminous skin and a face that curls easily into a smile, it's not hard to be seduced into feeling like you know what she's thinking at any given moment. For now, it's all of the above. UK's Harrow Observer columnist and Bollywood Hungama's London correspondent brings you Part 2 of the Kareena Kapoor exclusive. "Saif's never really followed a typical road to anything. He's got success by being versatile and Agent Vinod will prove that yet again" I'm a part of the highest grossing film 3 Idiots, I'm a part of the most expensive film Ra.One and I'm a part of the most expensive thriller Agent Vinod. Let me begin by telling you that Shah Rukh Khan has taken Ra.One to another level with his deep involvement with the film. As far as Agent Vinod is concerned it's a Sriram Raghavan film and it's going to be quite a shocker for everyone. Saif's never really followed a typical road to anything. He's got success by being versatile and Agent Vinod will prove that yet again. "The USP of Siddique is that he is a writer too. He has really written the emotional scenes very well" Siddique is one of the most talented directors I've worked with. I've also worked with Priyadarshan in many films. But I think Siddique is very instinctive. He doesn't want to waste time of the actors by taking multiple takes. If he is happy with one take then he doesn't spend time taking the shot again. The USP of Siddique is that he is a writer too. He has really written the emotional scenes very well. "My managers told Madame Tussauds to lock the date that balanced both my big releases" There was a lot of confusion whether my wax statue should coincide with Saif's birthday or not. But finally we decided that it should be launched between Bodyguard and Ra.One. My managers told Madame Tussauds to lock the date that balanced both my big releases and so we decided to lock the October 18 as the Madame Tussauds launch date "I'm really excited about Heroine and I'm sure I'll pull it off and give it my best" I don't want to get into how much other actresses get paid but I can't claim that I will be the highest paid actress for Madhur's Heroine because we are still in talking terms. I've never talked about money publically. I'm trying to accommodate my dates to Madhur and UTV because I've been so busy since the last few months. I'm really excited about the script and I'm sure I'll pull of Heroine and give it my best. "Everyone's going to see me in this very Bohemian kind of look in Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu" Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu first look feedback has been pretty good so far. People loved the poster because we've used the still from our film. It's when we go to this 'Fun Fair' in Las Vegas. Everyone's reacting to the chemistry and I'm sure I and Imran are going to make one deadly pair (laughs). Imran is so shy and I am so all out there (laughs). Everyone's going to see me in this very Bohemian kind of look in Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu. "I'm open to work with Dibakar Banerjee as long as he has a good script" I'd love to work with new and upcoming directors too. I'm open to anybody who has a great script. You get me a good script and I'm on. You name it - Dibakar Banerjee, Rajkumar Hirani, Imtiaz Ali and any new director who can impress me with his or her script. Click here to read Part 1 of interview with Kareena Kapoor

Subhash K. Jha speaks about Bol

2011-09-02 04:14:23

From a country where women are still regarded as second-class citizens, and from a world where filmmakers have to constantly battle the dreaded formulistic cinema, comes this devastating masterpiece on women and their questionable position in a patriarchal society such as 'ours'(India) or 'theirs' (Pakistan). And the one doing all the questioning is Zainab played by the gloriously deglamorized Humaima Malick. Zainab's audacious challenge to her autocratic authoritarian father (Manzar Sehbai) provides the core to this compelling drama of the doomed gender. Tragically women continue to move on the back foot even in supposedly progressive circles of the third-world. Brilliantly subtle in his persuasive powers, writer-director Shoaib Mansoor's camera often focuses on Westernized women's faces in the melee of media persons who have come to hear Zainab's story before she hangs for her father's murder. The eyebrows that are raised in protest against women's de-emancipation are duly plucked. As voyeuristic as the cinematic experiences happens to be, we leave this long sometimes digressive film with a deep sense of guilt, regret and hurt although Shoaib ends the story on a highly optimistic with the women of the family now liberated from patriarchal tyranny, running a flourishing eating joint. If only real life was about letting women in backward societies use their skills to be financially independent! Bol is a film that leaves us with a lot of unanswered questions about gender bias. The basic tenet is put across in a scalding monologue where Malick's voice rises to a shattering crescendo to ask, "If killing a child is a crime why isn't bringing an unwanted child into the world a crime?" Mercifully, Bol not a film suffused in feministic messages in a male-dominated society. Mansoor wants to tell a spanking good story. Unlike Shoaib's raw and real Khuda Ke Liye which suffered technical glitches because of fund crises, Bol is shot in delightfully real and engaging colours that never cross the borders of glamour to become offensively decked-up realism. In some places, the women playing the sisters tend to appear on screen with a little bit too much makeup. But the tide of authenticity simply overpowers the blemishes of length and continuity leaving us with a piece of cinema that slices the heart and burns a hole in the soul. While some sequences come across too strongly, some of the film's most compelling scenes have to do with the only non-female child that is born into the patriarchal film. The boy Saifu (Amar Kashmiri)'s gender confusion is delicately woven around the house of women as they pamper the girl-boy child into maturity. The sisters want Saifu to "be a man" in the same Utopian vein that we crave for society where gender would case to motivate the right to equality. Also delicately-woven into the this hard hitting tale is Ayesha (Mahira Khan)'s ongoing romance with the boy next-door (played by singer Atif Aslam). However, the entire portion in the red-light area and patriarch's procreative bonding with the tawaif Meena (Iman Ali) gets long-winded and after point, irrelevant to the proceedings. The references to Kamal Amrohi's Pakeezah and other Indian allusions tend to give the film a wider perspective than the one afforded by the immediate story of stifling house of woman in the centre of Lahore. Every woman breathes her own suffocating air. The actresses are splendid in their unadorned beauty. The actors are in their element, though Mansar Shebai as the father opts for an over-the-top treatment of his boorish character. Not for a minute does Shoaib Mansoor let us forget that a society based on gender discrimination is a sure road to self-destruction. What remains beyond the theme of stubborn patriarchy are the faces of those disenchanted but undefeated girls who wait for the day when they are not brought to the world because the Holy Scriptures prevents contraception. But because they are wanted needed and cared for. Bol is small word, but a big film with large heart. Shaoib Mansoor packs a walloping punch in this reined-in drama. Khuda ke liye, don't miss it. In an era when shirtless heroes vanquishing an army of villains are the order of cinematic entertaining it is reassuring to see a film fight the enemy within with such contoured candour and fluent grace.

Rascals and Hum Tum Shabana have a common inspiration?

2011-09-02 04:40:06

Is Hum Tum Shabana a remake of Anil Kapoor-Govinda-Juhi Chawla starrer Deewana Mastana? Or is it David Dhawan's own Rascals which is going back in time by a decade and a half to look for inspiration? That's pretty much the speculation going around in the industry, now that promos of both the films are running almost simultaneously on screen. "Call it strange but both these films are similar in ways more than one. While in Hum Tum Shabana, Tusshar Kapoor and Shreyas Talpade are trying to find Minissha Lamba's attention coming their way, Rascals has Ajay Devgn and Sanjay Dutt trying to outsmart each other to catch hold of Kangna. With the kind of funny antics that they are indulging in this game of one upmanship, it is hard to ignore the reference points in Deewana Mastana", says a film enthusiast who can't help but draw connection points. While each of these three films are basically comic entertainers, what adds on to the characterisation is the senior-junior combination. Deewana Mastana had Anil being the senior partner; Rascals has Sanjay Dutt as the veteran male protagonist while Hum Tum Shabana has Tusshar trying to impose his seniority. "Well, an attempt to outsmart a rival in the game of love isn't something new in any case", an industry veteran dismisses the rumour, "As good as three decades ago, even Katha (Naseeruddin Shah, Farooque Sheikh, Deepti Naval) had seemingly a similar plotline. Now would you come back and say that all these new films are inspired by that film? Aise nahi hota hai." Quiz those associated with the respective films and there are interesting comments that they make. "Hum Tum Shabana has nothing to do with a Katha or a Deewana Mastana", smiles Tusshar, "It is written by Farhajaan Sheikh who is an independent writer and though it is about two guys trying to woo a girl, it doesn't quite account to any inspiration. In fact it makes our film is funnier as the second half has a totally surprising twist in the tale. I was zapped when I heard about it since it is something entirely original." When it comes to ever-so-jolly sounding David Dhawan, he acknowledges that just like Deewana Mastana, it's the game of cat and mouse that would be the highlight of Rascals. However, he goes on to add that while Sanjay and Ajay battle it out in the run, there is Arjun Rampal who joins the proceedings as well. Though he doesn't reveal much about whether Arjun too is wooing Kangna in the film, Dhawan assures that he has an important part to play nonetheless. "Yes, this fourth character in Rascals brings in a twist to the tale. Arjun has done very well and he is simply fantastic in the film", smiles Dhawan. Guess with both the films emphasizing on the 'twist' factor here, seems like these apparent inspiration could pretty much turn out to be a twisted tale in itself!

"Bodyguard is one of the best roles of my career" - Kareena Kapoor: Part 1

2011-09-01 05:08:13

Talking to actress Kareena Kapoor is a crash course on how to live life on your own terms. As if you weren't well aware that she's dating Saif Ali Khan, still has her natural hair colour and is a proud 'Kapoor' who values rituals and customs. Kareena Kapoor is in a mood for a little round of show and tell. She walks into this small room where I've been waiting patiently for her for three hours... but I'm not complaining. Dressed from top to toe in colourful traditionals, Bebo looked every bit an Indian princess who doesn't have that desperate theatre-brat need to charm or wow, who doesn't try to be breezy or sexy but instead is able to just be - onscreen and off. She's clearly arguing about the fact that her last two films with Salman were a let down because of the scripts and yet she asserts that this one (Bodyguard) will bring that lost glory back. Welcome to the beautiful world of Kareena Kapoor - an adrenalin artist and a self professed world class lover. There is a conscientious quality to Kareena, who seems to have a healthy handle on her priorities - which may also help explain how she has managed to pull off an almost half a decade relationship with Saif Ali Khan. She has cracked the code to having fame and a relatively normal life, till a few men walk in our room and hand her over a big fat rectangular book with exclusive stills from her recent film Bodyguard. It's called the 'Bodyguard Book' sent by her producer Atul Agnihotri to have a sneak peek at. Knowing Bebo, she takes her time flipping and adoring the stills. I sit quietly observing her every little movement and think - at 30, she still hasn't lost anything: she is an ever-smiling, booty-shaking, leg-alicious movie goddess but she has also gained a palpable sense of calm of consistency - consistency in her smile. Kareena's smile is the smile of a woman who unselfconsciously enjoys her life. She lives it regardless of the paparazzi, the cell-phone snappers, the autograph seekers or me who is sitting in front of her asking the cliches. But thanks to her smile my wait was worth it! The clichÃ©s start to fade out and a fresh round of talk continues all on a grey rainy day at Mehboob Studio in Bandra. UK's Harrow Observer columnist and Bollywood Hungama's London correspondent brings you Part One of the two part special on Kareena Kapoor's latest obsession after Jab We Met - Bodyguard, that she reckons will even break records of 3 Idiots at the box office. "After Jab We Met, this is one of my best roles in my career" It's not very important to choose between a creativity and commerciality. What's important is to choose between a good movie and a bad movie. There is a fine line between a good and a bad movie. You don't have to do an art film to perform. In that regards, Bodyguard is a very performance driven film and that's why I did it. After Jab We Met, this is one of my best roles in my career. "We've seen that the Indians living abroad are suckers for a good love story and Bodyguard is that story" I was there in London doing some interviews this month and I think this is more of an overseas film. I say this because this isn't a comedy or a thriller. This is a beautiful love story. We've seen that the Indians living abroad are suckers for a good love story and we are giving them exactly that. "My transformation from a naughty girl in first half to being an anchor in the second was challenging" Bodyguard is a remake of a Malayalam film and the director has also made the same in Tamil too. Obviously, we've tweaked it around a bit because the South palette is very different from that of the Bollywood. My director Siddique was very much aware of that. I've seen the Malayalam version and I am proud that my role wasn't changed. It bears a lot of similarity with the roles in other versions but I definitely played it my style. I've done it the way I'd like to do it and how my fans would like to see me - like more naughty and mischievous in the first half and in the second half it transforms into how she is the emotional anchor of the movie. "When I'm waxed at Tussauds, my Bodyguard's already there who's waxed" When I'm waxed at Tussauds, my Bodyguard's already there who's waxed. But yes, the whole feeling still hasn't sunk in. There is a new Madame Tussauds that's going to open in Blackpool and they are going to tour an exhibition of all their statues to six different cities from Australia to Berlin to Hong Kong to Singapore and finally come to London. I'm honoured. "The twists and turns in the second half will leave you shocked" The story of Bodyguard is about this girl who falls in love with the bodyguard. The twists and turns in the second half will leave you shocked. Salman Khan hasn't done a love story since quite some time now. All we've seen him doing is comedy and action. So this is a good departure for him. There is action and comedy in this because we do have to compensate his fans too (laughs). "In my earlier films, the scripts have let both me and Salman down" In our earlier movies we did together like Kyunki and Main Aur Mrs Khanna, the scripts let us down big time. That's why the chemistry wasn't working. An actor cannot save a bad film. People are really awaiting our togetherness in Bodyguard. "It's strange but the truth that my fans like to see me in a traditional avatar" My fans react very strongly when it's the traditional desi avatar, overseas or India. They like to see me in a particular way and I think that's why we stuck to such costumes. Jab We Met was more whites and simple in colours but Bodyguard has a bit of fashion statement. There is this passionate and a glamorous song that I've done in a black saree that I've done after a long time. The last time I wore a saree in a song was from 3 Idiots. "Salman Khan has this amazing quality about him that makes him really heroic" Salman Khan comes across as a laid back, naughty, bratty, brash, etc. But what people don't know about Salman is that he is a very intelligent guy. Some of the things he tells me are very hard hitting. There are things that he tells me about life that are just amazing. He spreads positivity wherever he goes and he brings that vibe too that he spreads across. He has this amazing quality that makes him really 'heroic'. He is a religion in himself. The kind of fan following he has is hysterical. He is blessed to have this kind of loyalty and it rarely happens. "I'm competing with my own self and I hope Bodyguard breaks all records of 3 Idiots" As far as box office collections are concerned, people should know that I am competing with my own movie 3 Idiots. It's my highest grossing film till date and I hope Bodyguard breaks that collection. Bodyguard should break all records and it's good for our industry too. We are in need for some good grossing films. 2011 so far is the best year we've had at the box office. Part 2 of the interview with Kareena Kapoor coming soon. Watch this space!

Sanjay Gupta's 'Mumbai gangster' film dilemma

2011-08-30 18:52:22

Ram Gopal Varma is a constant presence in Sanjay Gupta's life. Gupta who is about to make his first Mumbai underworld thriller has discovered that Ramu has been there, done it all. Says Gupta, "Can you believe it? Although I was born and brought up in Mumbai, Shootout At Wadala is my first Mumbai film. All my films have been located outside Mumbai. Now when I'm doing a film on Mumbai's underworld, I find I've been beaten at it by Ramu, who is ironically not from Mumbai but Hyderabad. He has been able to induce a striking outsider's view in his cinema on Mumbai. I guess I was too much of an insider." Gupta finds himself stumped by a sense of deja vu wherever he goes looking for location for his film. "Ramu has already been everywhere. Where do I go?" To conceive and execute the visual palate that suits his cinema, Gupta has hired the location managers of Danny Boyle's Slumdog Millionaire who will not only find him the right spots but also manage the crowds who descend to watch the shooting. Says Gupta, "Slumdog had a foreign crew. They could shoot unrecognized in Mumbai's chawls .When we shoot with John Abraham and Anil Kapoor in Mumbai's underbelly, we need enormous crowd-management expertise." Sanjay Gupta's comeback as a director in Shootout At Wadala is proving to be a bigger challenge for the director than he had bargained for. The problem is how to recreate the Mumbai of the 1970s in all its topographical details? "And we are not talking about just the obvious detailing, like the Fiat and Ambassador cars that roamed on the streets of Mumbai in that decade, or the outdated extinct guns that gangsters used in those days...We are talking about the whole ethos, flavour and rhythm of Mumbai in the 70s." Says Ramu, "I'm often asked why Mumbai in my films looks so real and alive. It's because I am from outside and completely besotted by the city. I remember when my plane was to touch down on Mumbai for the first time; the aerial view took my breath away. Mumbai still takes my breath away. I don't think a Mumbai-born filmmaker can see the city with the same awe reverence and love that I can."

"Bodyguard is a beautiful love story" - Salman Khan

2011-08-30 06:21:51

Any actor who thinks he is a sex symbol has got a serious problem. He's the Bandra lad whose good looks and deadpan delivery has made him one of Indian Film Industry's biggest and the most bankable star at the box office. Then there are those who take Salman seriously and those who don't. The truth is that he does the same - he takes you in for a ride or he leaves you midway stranded. Then there is his illness and the entire country praying for him. The truth is that he doesn't care and in his trademark style quotes, "I'm alright. I'm fine. It's just that I had some short circuit in my head". That's when you start to respect the man for not being a star but Salman Khan. He still has the noticeable 'bhai' burr and a slight roughness around the edges but everything else about him screams 'superstar'. I meet the actor at Mehboob studio just hours before he was supposed to travel to the U.S. for his treatment. With his black polo neck t-shirt with 'Bodyguard' printed on it and his favourite denim and black boots, Khan looked as if he cared the least about who is on the other side interviewing him. I come to know that because he stared at me with unnerving focus, and after a brief pause he smiles but doesn't make an eye contact with you. He then gets up, lights his cigarette, chats with few of his friends who've accompanied him at Mehboob while his bodyguards make sure that no stranger enters his domain. All said but beneath the shiny varnish of his fame and wealth and super power status, there is something appealing about Salman's belief that he could just as easily have turned out doing something altogether more normal. There goes his humour again, "I still haven't figured that out because I'm just normal". UK's Harrow Observer columnist and Bollywood Hungama's London correspondent brings you a quick Q n A with Salman Khan on pain, gain and Bodyguard. "My earlier two films with Kareena didn't work so hope this time the chemistry changes" I don't know how my chemistry with Kareena is. Actually she can tell you much better (laughs). But honestly, we've worked together on two films earlier Kyun Ki and Main Aur Mrs Khanna that didn't do well at the box office. So hope the chemistry changes this time around (smiles). "I had heard of the Bodyguard script when the film was in the making down South" Yes, Bodyguard is a remake but it's very different as far as characters are concerned. The only character that the director has retained is that of Bebo's. A lot has changed. The whole feel of the movie is altered. I had heard of the Bodyguard script when the film was in the making down South. Atul narrated me the story and he wanted to take the rights. "Bodyguard is a beautiful love story that I'm doing after a lot of action films that have kept me busy" I don't believe that I am doing all the same kinds of movies. Wanted was different than Dabangg. Dabangg was different from Ready and so is Bodyguard different from all the ones I've mentioned. It's just that because the action is the same, people think that I do similar roles but it's not the truth. Bodyguard is a beautiful love story that I'm doing after a lot of action films that have kept me busy. "Kareena has been promoting the film as this is my best love story since Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam" Kareena has been promoting the film as this is my best love story since Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam. I'm surprised (laughs). I can't comment on that because it's her take. It's a compliment but I think this is way different than that. Kareena is one of the best actresses I've worked with. I've also enjoyed working with her sister Lolo who is a dear friend too. "I like doing movies that I like to watch as an audience" I like doing movies that I like to watch as an audience. I will never do a movie that someone else liked it and recommended me. The audience's reaction is all what matters to me. That's my award. Bodyguard was originally from the South but because I thought that I'd like to see this film from an audience's perspective. I always do and I will keep on doing just that. "I've not asked Shera for any feedback on how I should do my role" My character of Bodyguard was scripted and not researched. So why would I want Shera to inform me how to look and how to act. Tomorrow if I do a film called 'Driver' I will never ask my driver for tips. I follow scripts and that's it. If the director wishes to change anything then we talk it out and I give my inputs sometime. Like the idea of the bodyguard wearing a Bluetooth was mine. That's how today bodyguards look like, right? "I'd like to believe that songs are the highlight of this movie too" The songs are becoming a rage, especially the title track that people are dancing on. Kids too love the song. Then there is 'Teri Meri' that's a beautiful rendition. That's one of my favourites too. Yes, I'd like to believe that songs are the highlight of this movie too. "I am perfectly fine. It's just that I had a short circuit in my nerve" If I wasn't fine I wouldn't have been giving you this interview. Yes, I am going to get this treated and by that time my film would've released. I am taking precautions and will soon get it cured, don't worry. No pain no gain as they say.

The Dirty Picture looks sensational, naughty and fun

2011-08-30 09:36:13

The first trailer of The Dirty Picture was revealed today and what it does is that it breaks the myth of the film being a serious biopic. If the 90-second long first trailer is any indication, there isn't anything overtly serious about this 'dirty' offering. Instead, the film appears to be a lot of fun with naughty and tantalising elements that should result in paisa-vasool entertainment for all audiences. The three things stay with you once the promo ends (and after you have replayed it four-five times to see it again to believe it) are - a) Vidya Balan, b) Music and c) Emraan Hashmi's voiceover. The three men in Vidya's (who plays Silk Smitha) life are sensationally introduced - Naseeruddin Shah (who lusts for her), Tusshar (who loves her) and above all, Emraan Hashmi (who hates her). The Dirty Picture trailer turns out to be a racy outing that keeps you glued to every shot. The track used is the foot-tapping 'Ooh Laa Laa' composed by Vishal and Shekhar. The trailer has all the shots that put a smile on your face - Naseer and Vidya rolling down the hills, Vidya in the typical south-style Amrapali, Naseer and Vidya making out on the back seat of a car, Vidya shocking Tusshar with her inviting one liners, and Emraan challenging Vidya's might. Also, the words 'Hha Aah' that play in background remain in your mind, clearly taking you back to the classic Jeetendra-Jaya Prada days. In fact all this while when many wondered whether Milan would successfully recreate the 80s era a la Tohfa, Himmatwala, Maqsad et al, it is remarkable to see how well he actually does. Having said that, thankfully, the visuals never turn garish or jarring on one's eyes while also refraining from taking the parody or spoof route. Emraan Hashmi continues to bring to the fore his naughty streak with his generic views about women, something that not just goes with his on-screen image but also with the spirit of the film in general. He is the 'sutradhar' in motion in this trailer and introduces Vidya's new avatar with aplomb. The heart and soul of the trailer (and surely, the film too) is Vidya Balan who shocks and seduces like never before. The beauty from Paa, Parineeta and Lagey Raho Munnabhai emerges as the new tigress of tinsel town - daring to bare but never looking vulgar. Watch out for the shot where she tells Tusshar - 'Mujhe Jo Chahiye Uska Maza Sirf Raat Ko Hi Aata Hai'! That is bound to have the galleries whistling! The expression of shock on Tusshar's face at this point is the same as that of the viewer once he has seen this 'dirty picture'! Don't miss it!

All you wanted to know about 'Bodyguard'

2011-08-30 03:13:38

Salman Khan's latest film Bodyguard co starring Kareena Kapoor and directed by south director Siddique has been making headlines for the past few weeks. With Salman going all out to promote the film the anxiety for the film is virtually palpable. Bollywood Hungama brings its surfers a special page dedicated to telling all that you wanted to know about the film Bodyguard. Preview Lovely Singh however proves to be a tough nut to crack, and it takes quite a bit of doing from her side to penetrate his fort-like exterior. But... More... Music Review 'Desi Beat' begins, it all sounds like a quintessential Punjabi dance number to begin with. In fact for the first couple of listening... More... News Salman Khan to fly to the US for treatment of Trigeminal Neuralgia Bodyguard breaks pre-release buzz records Karisma Kapoor's voice-over in Bodyguard Lakhs of people respond to become Salman and Kareena's bodyguards Salman Khan's health problem revealed You can become Salman and Kareena's bodyguard in your city I am not writing 'Dabangg 2' Team Ra.One opts out of Dubai concert; Shahid Kapoor jumps in to rescue Salman to remake Manjrekarâs Shikshanachya Aaicha Gho in Hindi Salman won't begin Dabangg 2 before mid-2012 Kareena Kapoor agrees to play the lead in Madhur Bhandarkar's Heroine Salman Khan scraps out the role of Bodyguard's father Shera shoots for item song with Salman in Bodyguard Salman does cameo appearance in Tell Me O Kkhuda Katrina will be dancing on 'Aaya Re Aaya Bodyguard' along with Salman 'Bodyguard' first look Katrina Kaif to do item number in Bodyguard Booking crucial dates in 2012 has already begun Workaholic Salman Himesh's music of Damadamm with T-Series for perpetuity Now 'Ready 2'? Himesh has films coming up during the three festivals Salman Khan fined Rs.200 for smoking in public place Post Ready music launch, Salman organised impromptu bash at Film City pad Garma-garam gupshup Khans and Bhushan Kumar take relationship forward Shooting of Bodyguard halted in Pune by members of FWICE Kareena Kapoor has record number of festival period releases Only home-productions henceforth for Salman? Kareena Kapoor opposite Salman Khan in 'Bodyguard' Salman's 'My Love Story' eyes Eid Salman Khan to star in remake of Bodyguard Features Check out: Kareena Kapoor's sexy saree look in Bodyguard Check Out: Salman, Katrina and Shera grooving to the beats of Bodyguard Check Out: Salman Khan and Kareena Kapoor on the sets of Bodyguard 2011 Mid-year Bollywood music report card Return of the Ravishing Raveena - Part 1 'Bodyguard' Salman's new fitness regime Valentine 2012 would see KJo's roses drenched with Bhatts' blood Salman plays Bodyguard to his young fan Salman gets back his Wanted bracelet for Bodyguard Bodyguard 'rakhis' become huge hit in market Ek Triangular Si Love Story Kareena hopes to break Salman jinx with Bodyguard "I did it the item song in Bodyguard for Alvira" - Katrina Kaif Salman has his way, brings more action in Bodyguard Check Out: Salman and Katrina in the item song from Bodyguard Salman will display his best ever dancing skills in 'Desi Beat' from Bodyguard Kareena - From Shahid's 'Geet' to Salman's 'Divya' Will Salman enjoy 'Bourne' inspired action in Ek Tha Tiger? Sunny's Ghayal Returns to take a route different from South remakes Check Out: Salman and Kareena on the sets of Bodyguard Anees Bazmee to start No Entry Mein Entry with Salman next Himesh back with Salman after 6 years with Bodyguard Reflections: Salman Khan - Has the sleeping lion been woken up? Harris Jayaraj's track proves unlucky for John Abraham Check Out: Salman Khan geared up as Bodyguard Salman's innocence made him Siddique's Bodyguard Salman asks Mahesh Manjrekar to join Bodyguard cast Salman Khan saves the day for Bodyguard team Results of The Most Awaited Movies of 2011 Check Out: Salman and Kareena on sets of My Love Story in Pune Results of The Most Awaited Movies of 2011 Reflections: 2011 - The year that will be Gallery Wallpapers Movie Stills First Look: Bodyguard Movie Screensaver: Bodyguard Kareena and Karisma at 'Bodyguard' special screening Special screening of 'Bodyguard' Kareena promotes 'Bodyguard' on the sets of UTV Stars Kareena and Salman snapped giving TV interviews for 'Bodyguard' Salman on the sets of Sa Re Ga Ma Lil Champs Salman Khan at India's Got Talent Season 3 to promote 'Bodyguard' Salman, Kareena and Shera unveil firstlook of 'Bodyguard' Broadband Teri Meri(Bodyguard) Dialogue Promo 1 (Bodyguard) Dialogue Promo 2 (Bodyguard) Dialogue Promo 3 (Bodyguard) Dialogue Promo 4 (Bodyguard) Kareena Kapoor Speaks About 'Bodyguard' Part 1 Dialogue Promo 5 (Thank You) Teaser 1 (Thank You) Theatrical Trailer (Thank You) Pyaar Do Pyaar Lo (Thank You) 'Thank You' Special Event Suniel - Akshay Promote 'Thank You' Full Volume (Thank You) Irrfan Khan Speaks About 'Thank You' Bobby Deol Speaks About 'Thank You' Bobby - Irrfan - Suniel Promote 'Thank You' Holi Celebrations With Bobby Deol Title Song (Bodyguard) Salman Khan's Bollywood Hungama Exclusive Atul Agnihotri Speaks About 'Bodyguard' Part 1 Atul Agnihotri Speaks About 'Bodyguard' Part 2 Desi Beat (Bodyguard) Salman Khan's Bodyguard Shera's Bollywood Hungama Exclusive I Love You (Bodyguard) First Look Launch Of 'Bodyguard' Theatrical Trailer (Bodyguard)

Madhur Bhandarkar does special cameo in Hum Tum Shabana

2011-08-29 06:12:08

Madhur Bhandarkar will be seen in a cameo in Sagar Ballary's upcoming comedy Hum Tum Shabana starring Tusshar Kapoor, Shreyas Talpade and Minissha Lamba. What's interesting is that Madhur will be seen acting as well as walking the ramp as part of the grand finale of a beauty pageant in the film. Says producer Sunil Chainani of Horseshoe Pictures, "It's the grand finale of Glamarama Beauty Pageant organized by Tusshar and Shreyas who play rival event managers in the film. Madhur plays a celebrated film director who is the special Chief Guest of the evening." Sources say that he also loved the story of the roller coaster comedy and hence agreed to do the special cameo role. Hum Tum Shabana is set to release on September 23, 2011.

"People don't spend 150 bucks to hear your lecture" - Ajay Devgn

2011-08-29 07:43:24

Not someone who likes basking in the past glory, Ajay Devgn has now moved on. After delivering a smash super hit like Singham which is quite close to touching the Rs. 100 crores mark just in India, Ajay is now looking forward to his next film Rascals which is all set for Dusshera release. However, his underlining thought behind making movies stays on to be just the same - 'entertainment'. With good success seen in comic as well as action outings, would you continue to pick similar genres in years to come as well? After all your next two immediate releases are Rascals (comedy) and Tezz (action)â¦ See, as I have always maintained, good movies work, bad movies don't. I never pick up a film thinking that chalo yeh action hai ya comedy hai toh kar lete hain. I had started off as an action hero, then I saw a few comedy films of mine turning successful in last few years and now I have a good success in Singham because the script is extra ordinary. This is what matters eventually. Now next to come is Rascals. I have a good success in Singham because the script is extra ordinary And what makes you pick a script and say - 'Ok, so this is extraordinary'? It's as simple as that. If you try to teach people something by showing them films, they will obviously get bored. They are not spending 150 bucks to hear your lecture. Better give them some entertainment. After doing six films last year (Atithi Tum Kab Jaoge, Raajneeti, Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai, Golmaal 3, Aakrosh, Toonpur Ka Superhero), you have already been seen in Dil Toh Baccha Hai Ji and Singham this year with two more to follow now. Guess you don't always get much time to celebrate. (Smiles) Well, gradually I am bringing down the count. From six I have come down to three-four films this year. I too want to spend more time with my family. From six I have come down to three-four films this year Really? But you have already started work on Bol Bachchan and then there is Vishal Bhardwaj's film with Anushka Sharma starting early next year. I am sure there would be more to come next year too. Yes, but currently these are the only two films I am bringing on floors soon. I am committing myself as far as only 6-8 months from now. I don't like blocking my 2-3 years in advance. Now I would be signing other new films only next year. Will that be Golmaal 4? No. In fact people ask me about Golmaal 4 but there is no definite plan for that either. The film is still a couple of years away at the least before we give it a green signal. Before making any announcement, we have to first get a good script.

Celina Jaitly gets hitched

2011-08-29 08:03:27

It was in the news sometime back that Celina Jaitly was planning to tie knot with Dubai-based Austrian beau, Peter Haag. The actress, who got engaged to the hotelier last year, finally tied the knot with him. The couple who got married last month kept their wedding ceremony under tight wraps until recently when Celina tweeted saying, "Beloved tweeple. ..With great pleasure I would like to announce my wedding with @peterhaag on the 23rd of last month at a thousand year old monastery in Austria. We seek your blessings and good wishes, and apologize for the delayed announcement due to a family tragedy..." She also tweeted a picture of the most cherished moment of her life. The picture features Celina, her husband Peter, along with by her father-in-law to her left, and brother-in-law to Peter's right. Bollywood Hungama wishes Celina a happy married life.

Reflections - Why shy away my dear?

2011-08-29 10:19:29

A comment from a journo friend of mine prompted me to key down this piece. He said - 'Look at the way Salman is promoting Bodyguard. He knows this is a sure shot blockbuster in the making and hence is spending so much time and energy into it'. He is leaving no stone unturned despite the fact that he is ill. Promotion ho toh aisi; Salman has changed.' 'Changed? Really', I exclaimed, 'But I think he was always there for his movies. Remember Shaadi Karke Phas Gaya Yaar. Errr it's okay if you don't because most won't. But then even for that stuck-in-the-cans-for-years film, he went out of his promote it for his dear friend Shilpa Shetty.' But then there are exceptions for sure. Many in the business have stayed away from those films which they believe are either badly made or dated way beyond the point of any redemption. In this week's 'Reflections', let's look at many such instances and what really led a star to stay away instead of being sorry. Nahi yaar, bahaut puraani ho gayi ab yeh This is one the most common refrains that stars are bound to pick up once a film of theirs takes years to reach the finishing line and it is obvious that the release which would follow is going to be just a formality. Sanjay Dutt pretty much knew what was in store for his Chatur Singh 2 Star and kept a distance from this 3 year old film. He did the same for Aladin too while Mehbooba just came and went after being in the making of close to a decade. Of course he knew this was no Mughal-E-Azam and he was no Salim. So even as the makers felt that he would stay on to be thrilled with the likes of Sarhad Paar and Nehlle Pe Dehla, Dutt went 'Bas Kya....'! This has happened to other superstars as well The moment Shah Rukh Khan realised that his name would be attached to the promotional plans of Dulha Mil Gaya, he lost interest in the film. After all he was doing his friend and producer a favour here by doing the film but even as the production took it's own sweet time, Shah Rukh added on his own bit to it as well. Result? There was not even a single word mouthed by Shah Rukh right around the release of the film. It came and went but Shah Rukh was sure he had absolutely nothing to with it. The makers would still thank him for dubbing the film at the least. After all, Yeh Lamhe Judaai Ke wasn't even that lucky as a bewildered Shah Rukh wondered whether he had actually started working on this film with Raveena Tandon a decade ago. The only film where he chose to support a film despite a delay of half-a-decade was Hum Tumhare Hai Sanam. But then it also starred Salman Khan who was more than willing to help out Madhuri Dixit in one of her last films before retirement. As for Sunny Deol, he opted for an extended retirement and waited for Yamla Pagla Deewana to release instead of giving any support whatsoever to his much delayed Khuda Kasam that had featured Tabu. His Kaafila as well as Big Brother were meted the same treatment as well! But what happens when the end product is shaky? There have been times though when a film is completed on time and everything seems hunky-dory at the beginning. But then one look at the end product and you end up realising that this is one set up you want to move out of sooner than later. Ajay Devgn decided that for Cash when he openly criticised the film and it's makers for the end product. He wasn't much visible for London Dreams either and same is said about Saif Ali Khan who, on realising that Aarakshan wasn't quite his comeback film two years after Kurbaan, chose to restrain himself instead of going gung-ho about the film. Similarily, Kareena Kapoor too decided to lie relatively low for Main Aurr Mrs. Khanna while Aishwarya Rai too wasn't provoked into making any vociferous declarations for her Provoked or for that matter her least remembered film of them all - Umrao Jaan. Sometimes silence is golden 'Yaar, picture aayegi, chali jaayegi, better hai to keep quiet rather than talk about it at all. Achchi nahi bani hai; chor naa kucch aur topic par interview karte hain' - I have heard these statements coming from some dear star-actor friends of mine. Of course since such statements are made in close confidence, it won't be right on my part to state any names here. However, this isn't really a rare occasion actually. Actors end up revealing some ultra funny factoids when a film of theirs has turned out to be really bad. The moment they end up wearing their 'off the records' hat, conversations become spicier than ever. This is when you get to hear about the incompetence of a director or the bad breath that a co-star carries or an incomplete scene that was being corrected during editing or a secret pact between co-stars that in the press conferences, they would talk about everything under the sun but the film. 'Really, I just hope that the film arrives without any promotion at all and goes off the theatres in three days flat' - are truly some dangerous sounding wishes being made. And sometimes these prayers indeed come true Ever heard of an Amitabh Bachchan-Dharmendra-Dimple Kapadia film titled Hum Kaun Hai? This rehash of The Others wasn't even known to the industry, leave aside the industry. Priyanka Chopra had actually played Suniel Shetty's wife in a film called Blackmail which had Ajay Devgn in a negative role. What started off as a cameo in brother Arbaaz Khan's Prem Kaa Game turned into a full-on 'sutradhar' appearance for Salman Khan who was at his worst disinterested self in those 5-6 scenes and a music video that followed. Saif's much delayed Sanam Teri Kasam with none less than Pooja Bhatt released 15 years after going on floors and couldn't even sustain itself for 15 shows. Even Pooja Bhatt chose not to speak. Do miracles happen? At an instance or two it has happened though that a dated film, despite no support from it's stars, ends up being a winning product. Okay, so perhaps not a bumper success but then at least a face saving one. Last year's Milenge Milenge was one such example where both Shahid Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor opted out of it's promotional plans, only to see it turning out to be profitable for all involved. But then the reverse too hasn't turned out to be true when a star has instead decided to support his film despite adverse circumstances. Salman's Shaadi Karke Phas Gaya Yaar, the very film that was an inspiration for this piece, was a resounding flop. Akshay Kumar's earnest effort at giving some dignity to his stuck films like Mere Jeevan Saathi, Meri Biwi Ka Jawab Nahi and Police Force didn't quite help their makers mint much money. John Abraham did all that he could for Aashayein before finally giving up. On the other hand, Imran stuck to his Delhi Belly for full three years and got a Rs. 60 crores worth reward in his platter. Last heard, even Esha Deol hasn't lost hope in her much delayed film Tell Me O Kkhuda and is making her voice heard. What does the future beckon? Not many top actors have any backlog remaining. However, it would be interesting to see that for these select films, would these stars choose to talk or instead keep mum around their release? Akshay Kumar's Hello India (earlier titled Purab Ki Laila Paschim Ka Chaila) has been stuck for over a decade but Akshay is promising complete support to the makers. Emraan Hashmi's 24X7 Raftaar hasn't moved an inch for over two years and the future looks only bleaker after the death of it's director Shamin Desai. John Abraham's Hook Ya Crook seems to be totally lost in oblivion. Preity Zinta's Har Pall has been stuck for years. As for Karisma Kapoor, her worst fear may well come true if she is haunted by a comeback she may not really want. Imagine what she would indeed go through if just around the arrival of her comeback affair Dangerous Ishq, makers of her Amitabh Bachchan-Arshad Warsi starrer Zamaanat (which was started almost a decade and a half ago) decide to release it as it is? Will she or won't she speak about the film? Well, your guess is as good as mine!

Bollywood reacts to Anna Hazare's mass movement

2011-08-29 10:29:56

Post Anna Hazare's historic victory over the weekend, people from various walks of life were all praise for his determination to stand by a cause he so strongly believed in. Our B-town folks too weren't far behind in expressing their views on the phenomenon called Anna Hazare. Here's what some of them had to sayâ¦ Shabana Azmi: "Firstly, as a nation we have to thank Anna and his team for bringing the issue of corruption into focus. It's an issue that needed to be dealt with â¦NOW! In a democracy, people must be active participants not passive recipients. They must set the agenda for a clean government. The groundswell of support for Anna happened because of the people's disgust with corruption on a daily basis. Anna helped them realize they matter and can make a difference. I agree with hunger strike being a form of satyagraha. I had gone on a hunger strike for slum dwellers many years ago. But having said that I feel parliamentary processes couldn't have been bypassed. I find many recommendations of Aruna Roy NCPRI far more practical. Janlokpal is not a magic wand that would eradicate corruption .But yes it's a big step towards dealing with the evil. To me the success of Anna's movement is if it brings a transformation within us the next time we are tempted a bribe to lubricate the working machineryâ¦and we take the longer route and say no to corruption." Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra: "This looks like just the beginning. The middleclass has woken up. Both the people and the parliament have to tread very carefully from here onwards. We need to build a nation with a sound value-system and a supreme vision." Farhan Akhtar: "It's a great first step in the right direction and my heart is full of gratitude to Anna. It is a victory of the people and for the democratic process." Sudhir Mishra: "It's the first step in the rebirth of democracy in our country." Mahesh Bhatt: "The government did not have the moral courage to lock horns with Anna's movement because their hands were stained with 'blood'. Anna and his supporters have a right to feel triumphant. But the nation must not delude itself that heaven will descend in our backyard at the crack of dawn tomorrow. Get ready to run a marathon! The winning post is not yet in sight. The fight will now have to be fought and won in the real world and not in TV studios." Smriti Irani: "As a member of parliament it was a historic day today when the voice of the people found resounding support by my party .We of the BJP had effectively upheld not only the supremacy of the Parliament but also supported the people's right to protest. Today was a victory for democracy for the people in the Parliament rose to the occasion and collectively affirmed their dream to see a corruption-free India." Amole Gupte: "R K Laxman's Common Man spoke and the nation had to take heed. It is more than any game to be won. And as history shall record, nobody lost!" Hansal Mehta: "I don't think this is going to end corruption. We are creating a parallel bureaucracy without looking closely at existing inefficiencies and flaws in the system. At least Annaji will break his fast and that is the only redemption in this victory. I am also very angry but this movement has failed to focus on systemic change. I don't want to sound cynical but the behaviour of govt and opposition in parliament has fuelled my cynicism." R. Madhavan: "What Anna Hazare has achieved is fantastic and as an individual he has reached spectacular heights. I adore him. Lok Pal will deter corruption, but only to an extent. The basic Indian psyche is so steeped in bribery and corruption that unless the young make a conscious decision, the transition into a corruption-free society will take a very long time. But the first step has been taken. Hail Anna!" Manoj Bajpayee: "20 years down the line, we'll remember this day as the triumph of Anna and people's power. Cynics will hide in a corner and boast there were here." Pritish Nandy: "The people will always win, however tough the battle may appear. Rulers have to bow to the wishes of the electorate or face rejection. There are no choices left in today's world. The smell of jasmine is there in the air everywhere. Of course it's a victory of the people. Anna used the only means he had, to risk his own life for the cause that meant so much to him. How effective the Lokpal Bill would be depends on how strongly we are all committed to changing India and slaying corruption in public life." Govind Nihalani: "Yes, indeed it is a victory for the people of our country. It's a victory of the gentle voice of one elderly man that became a deafening roar of a billion Indians. I see it as historic step on the long road of systematic reforms needed in our society and government. I also feel that after making unforgivable mistakes in the beginning the government finally got its act together, displayed flexibility, heard the voice of people without compromising on the supremacy of the Constitution and the Parliament."

"I'd love to work with Ajay Devgn" - Mahie Gill: Part 2

2011-08-27 07:07:54

So here's Mahie Gill's wish list - Working with Ajay Devgn, Imtiaz Ali, Madhur Bhandarkar, travelling to Kerela and Ireland and drinking that famous Irish stout called Guiness and the most important wish - her big dream that she still hasn't seen. It's hard to believe Mahie feels invisible with all her larger than life wish list. Her presence cuts through the atmosphere without her saying anything. She's fiery but not immediately warm. So it's only after spending a good hour with her she opens up and talks about her many passions including cooking, and there's no doubt that Mahie Gill is a one off. UK's Harrow Observer columnist and Bollywood Hungama's London correspondent brings you the many lives and loves of Mahie Gill in the final part of this Bollywood Hungama exclusive! "Jimmy is a great actor who hasn't got his due so far" I just feel that Jimmy Sheirgill is a very talented actor but sadly he hasn't got his due so far. That's my opinion. But if it has got to do with his luck at the box office, well, the film has to work. Jimmy is a very calm and a quiet person. He keeps to himself but that's his nature. "I had a fight with Randeep Hooda. He is a brat" Randeep on the other hand is a 'moohfat' who doesn't talk to the hand but to your mouth (laughs). But honestly, he has a clean heart. You know what? I had a fight with Randeep in the beginning. I've never had a fight with anyone in my life and this had to be the first (laughs). If anyone starts bad mouthing me then I withdraw myself from that person. But the more I started to work with him I realised that he sometimes does it deliberately and then again I think - no he doesn't. He is quite a brat! "I'm so happy that my film Michael is selected at this years TIFF" I'm lucky that I'm working with good actors and I'm so happy that my film Michael is selected for this year's Toronto International Film Festival. It's mainly Naseeruddin Shah's story whose name is Michael. I play a nurse in Kolkata. The film is based in Kolkata. I may not be attending the festival as I will have to be promoting my film Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster in Mumbai. I wish luck to the entire team of Michael. "Before the film commenced, many told me that Deepak and I were a complete mismatch" Many of my friends and colleagues told me that Deepak and I were a complete mismatch. But then it depends on the actor's performance. An actor's strength is not his looks but his acting and Deepak has overpowered his acting in Not A Love Story. He is one of our industry's finest actors. "The vital question I ask before signing a film is - Will my film see the release date?" I am not intelligent when it comes to scripts. I cannot predict after reading it whether the film will work or not. No one can. There are certain scripts where I decide carefully. Like in the case of Michael, I selected it because I knew that Naseer sir had already signed it which means that the script has to be good for an actor like him to come on board. Dev D and Gulaal happened by sheer luck but Not A Love Story happened due to my earlier films and my performances in them. I'd love to work with new directors and one of the most important things that I ask is - will the film see the light of the day? Will it release after our four months of hard work put in? Touchwood so far all of them have released and released well. "I'd love to work with Ajay Devgn as people think my eyes have the same intensity as his" My favourite actors are Kamal Hassan, Aamir Khan, Hrithik Roshan and Ajay Devgn. A lot of people have told me that when it comes to the intensity, my eyes portray the same just like Ajay Devgn's eyes do. I really want to work with Ajay one day. I'm looking forward to that day. My favourite films are Lamhe, Mr India, Guide and Rangeela. I like 'love stories' and that too of a different kind. "Travelling and cooking gives me a high" I am a complete traveller. I love road trips. If you find my house you'll definitely find a backpack. I love Kerala. That's my favourite destination for travel in India and then I like Ireland. Though I haven't had the famous Guiness beer there but will definitely try one day. I love cooking and that too gives me a high. Click here to read Part 1 of Tete-a-tete with Mahie Gill