Bollywood News Feed

Puppies in Shahid Kapoor’s Paathshaala!

2010-03-10 17:04:35

Who would’ve imagined that a one-minute scene with tiny, harmless puppies would require a whole day of hard work? That’s exactly what happened on the sets of Shahid Kapoor’s ‘Paathshaala’, where a shoot for a 1 minute clip involving small kids and some puppies turned into a picnic of sorts for the cast and crew! The scene [...]

Ranbir Kapoor signed up as brand ambassador for John Players

2010-03-17 11:17:29

If there's someone in Bollywood, who is on a roll, thanks to his array of roles, then, it's none other than Ranbir Kapoor. After having endorsed a million products in such a short duration of time, this man is yet again in the news. This time round, he gets chosen as the brand ambassador for ITC's John Players range of clothing. With this association, ITC is aiming to add freshness, dynamism and energy to the men's apparel brand. Sources close to Bollywood Hungama have confirmed that this news will be made official in a mega media meet that's to be held tomorrow. The source adds, the reason why they chose Ranbir is because, the ITC officials felt that Ranbir was the perfect fit for the brand as he personifies the youthfulness, vibrancy and panache that the brand stands for. With this endorsement, it looks like Ranbir is all set to give a marathon run to all the other superstars, who were till now, the 'market leaders' when it came to brands endorsements.

Dharmendra hospitalised in Chandigarh

2010-03-17 13:03:17

The eternal superstar of Bollywood, Dharmendra, was hospitalized yesterday after he complained of chest pain. The actor was shooting for Samir Karnik's Yamla Pagla Deewana which also features Sunny and Bobby Deol. The actor who was admitted and kept under close observation has been recovering since, while the hospital authorities have said that he will soon be discharged following the results of tests conducted to ascertain his health and well being. Bollywood Hungama wishes the star a speedy recovery.

LSD gets Censored, sex scene to be toned down, caste reference removed

2010-03-16 02:30:23

Dibakar Banerjee's much talked-about Love Sex Aur Dhokha went before the censor board on Monday. The controversial love scene showing a bare-backed girl on top of a man making love has been told to be blurred on screen. In other words, Dibakar's couple will be seen by the audience making love as two blurred figures. The director already miffed and mired in what he sees as unnecessary controversy refuses to be enraged even if so many recent Hindi films have had graphic love- making scenes. As for the female bare back during a love-making scene the censors liberally allowed that in Rensil D'Silva's Kurbaan lately. Says Dibakar, "We had submitted a DVD of the film to the censorboard so they'd recommend cuts in advance and avoid delays. The censor preview recommendation suggests that we blur the sex scene. We were told this scene was too graphic and needed tempering. There's no way the censors could allow the love-making scene. We've clearly been told that even before the film is submitted for censoring. "When asked how bare-backed love-making scenes have been allowed passed the censors recently and how the one in Love Sex Aur Dhokha has been recommended toning down even before the film is submitted to the censors the director chooses to smile mysteriously. "I've been in principle against the film being perceived as a voyeur's delight. Love Sex Aur Dhokha is not about sex sex and sex. Those who expect that will turn away disappointed." However, in another more radical cut all reference to caste in a love story between a low-caste boy and a high-caste girl has been removed by the censorboard. This has infuriated Dibakar.Says the director, "This completely changes the perspective of my story since now the caste-challenged love story is turned into a poor-boy-rich-girl romance. This not what I intended." Also, the song 'Tu Nangi Achi Lagti Hai' which was modified on the audio CD to 'Tu Gandi Achi Lagti Hai' has now been similarly modified in the film also. Says Dibakar, "But no complaints. Considering the controversial content my film got away easily with little cuts and an 'Adults' certificate."?

FICCI Frames Diary, Day 1 - High on Glam & Content

2010-03-17 02:59:48

Click above for event stills Touted as Asia's largest global convention on the business of entertainment for the past decade, FICCI FRAMES has returned in its 11th edition this year. It is being held over three days, from March 16 - 18. Here is an overview of the turn of events on Day 1. An illustrious inaugural session was held in the presence of high-profile dignitaries like - Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan, Bollywood filmmaker Yash Chopra, Shahrukh Khan, Karan Johar, Katrina Kaif, Harsh Mariwala and Louise Sams. The ceremony was followed by keynote addresses by Shah Rukh Khan and James Nicholas Gianopulos (Chairman and CEO, Fox Filmed Entertainment Ltd). While James shed light on the emerging scope of 3D technology and the importance of Fox's expertise in film distribution, Shahrukh stressed that Bollywood has a lot to learn from its 'experienced cousin - Hollywood' in order to bloom as a film industry. - Â The inaugural session was also the platform for two book launches, The FICCI-KPMG Industry Report and the other on Entertainment Law. - Â Issues raised on the dias by other dignitaries included the need to curb piracy and to gear up to celebrate the hundred years of Indian cinema in 2013. The inaugural session was followed by the following seminars, panel discussions and master class. Here's a list of the highlights: A keynote by Sir Martin Sorell (Chief Executive, WPP Group) on the changing trends of the advertising industry. Followed by a keynote by Nikesh Arora (President of Global Sales Operations and Business Development, Google Inc., USA), who spoke about the impact Google's Android and Nexus One will have on consumer behavior, tele communication and mobile content. A panel discussion on 'How real is Reality TV? How can one create winning content?' was moderated by Sidhharth Basu. The panel, consisting of television programming heads, managing directors and CEO's, shed light on the emerging trends in reality shows. The discussion drew comparisons between fiction and non-fiction content that lead to a debate whether soap operas are going to be a thing of past. The panel discussion 'Indian films going global: Can our films really crossover?' was thronged by a lot of delegates and lead to interesting discussions and revelations. Moderated by Karan Johar, the panel consisted of noted actors Rahul Bose, Nandita Das, Irrfan Khan, Vijay Singh (CEO, Fox Star Studios India Pvt Ltd.) and Franck Priot (Deputy Director, Film France, The French Film Commission). While Rahul Bose was believed "Indian films will never crossover as the decision was always dictated by the producer's interests", Vijay was more optimistic, citing the success of My Name is Khan. Franck shared the tactics used by the French film industry to get their films noticed and also stressed on the importance of support from the government to get films to crossover. A highly specialized and rather serious discussion on the 'Innovations & growth in M&E sector: Digital and others' took place within a panel comprising of leaders of the digital media. The discussion was moderated by Marco Vernocchi (Global Managing Director, Media & Entertainment Practice, Accenture). The discussion brought forth the latest strategies being employed to generate content for the changing digital media platforms - particularly mobile devices and also efforts to contain piracy. The experts shared examples of recent success stories to paint an optimistic picture of the digital platform. A screenplay writing master class was conducted by renowned Hollywood screenwriter Stephen de Souza who shared a few tips that would help a writer refine his script. The session lead to a fairly long and interesting Q&A session, which many attendees found to be one of the most satisfactory sessions throughout the day. The evening concluded with a Networking Cocktails & Dinner event accompanied by entertainment that included a couple of fashion shows and dance performances.

Arshad Warsi throws light on differences with director Kabeer Kaushik

2010-03-16 02:38:51

Download H.T.A.G wallpapers Arshad Warsi is ready to face the biggest examination of his professional life. His debut film as producer, HUM TUM AUR GHOST, is scheduled for release next Friday. "I am excited and confident. I've made this film with a lot of passion and I sincerely hope the audience likes the effort," Arshad informs me. Meanwhile, the industry is abuzz with the speculation that Arshad had problems with the director of the film, Kabeer Kaushik. That explains why Arshad decided to take matters in his hand. "Well, we never got into fights. I am not the violent kind," Arshad states on record, "But it's true that Kabeer and I had differences." The differences stemmed from the fact that Kabeer wanted to make HUM TUM AUR GHOST into a serious film, while Arshad wanted it to be a light entertainer. "That's true," Arshad doesn't deny the industry talk, "Kabeer's interpretation was tilting more towards serious, while I wanted it to be a light entertainer. So we decided that let the editor [Steven] decide what's best for the film. We decided to step out of the editing suite and let him take the decision." So, whose interpretation is HUM TUM AUR GHOST eventually? "It's Arshad Warsi's vision. It has its serious moments, but you'd come out smiling in the end," Arshad smiles.

Boman Irani on his experience of working with Shyam Benegal

2010-03-16 02:43:13

Download W.D.A wallpapers If you enjoy working in a film, the experience lingers in your memory for years and years. Boman Irani cherishes every moment he spent on the sets of WELL DONE ABBA, so much so that when Shyam Benegal concluded the shooting and threw a farewell party for the cast and technicians on the sets of the film, Boman couldn't help but get moist-eyed. Boman says, he doesn't prefer outdoor shoots, since he misses his family the most. "But I thoroughly enjoyed working on this film. It's a dream to work with Shyam Babu [Benegal] at least once and I was genuinely awaiting that opportunity. And one fine day he called and said something very nice. He said, 'Boman, I have finally found something befitting your calibre'," Boman recalls. Before working with the veteran film-maker, Boman was under the impression that Shyam Babu was a strict disciplinarian. "But he was from being a dictator on the sets. On the contrary, he kept us smiling all through the making of the film. It was like one big picnic," Boman states.

Vidya Balan creates sleep awareness

2010-03-15 11:25:30

Ever wondered why Vidya Balan looks as fresh like a Lilly. It's probably because of good sleeping habits. Therefore, naturally, Indian Sleep Disorders Association (ISDA) has appointed her as the brand ambassador of sleep awareness month that runs through all of March. The drive is to sensitise people about sleep disorders, the symptoms of which are often ignored but can cause serious health issues. It's Miss Balan's belief which is validated by doctors as well that getting a good night's sleep is as important as having daily vitamins and in case you're facing irregular sleeping patterns, it's important to see a doctor. According to experts one in every three Indian suffers from insomnia or some other form of sleep disorder but having Vidya working on creating awareness, there is bound to be a lot of people having sweet dreams.

Shilpa and Raj Kundra launch their nightclub called Royalty in Mumbai

2010-03-15 12:09:40

Shilpa Shetty and hubby Raj Kundra may be busy touring with their IPL team- Rajasthan Royals but that hasn't stopped them from expanding their other business interests. Shilpa and Raj recently announced the opening of their new nightclub called 'Royalty' in Mumbai. The high end club is located at the same place where popular hotspot 'Poison' was earlier situated. After their closely fought match against the Mumbai Indians on Saturday, Shilpa and Raj threw a lavish bash at their new club Royalty. The bash saw some bigwigs in attendance including Sanjay Dutt, Fardeen Khan, Harman Baweja, Ameesha, Kabir Bedi, Shamita Shetty and Jackie Shroff. One will have to wait and watch if this nightclub turns out to be a hotspot for Bollywood's party animals in the days to come.

MNIK Vfx: Creating Georgia in Mumbai

2010-03-15 12:36:48

Shah Rukh Khan won over our hearts and minds with the Good Samaritan Rizwan Khan in MNIK by helping poor American villagers in their time of need. But who would have guessed that Karan Johar shot the whole flood sequence in Mumbai and made it seem like a quaint, rural village in Georgia? A far cry from yesteryear's films that used cardboard cut-outs for the sun and the moon, the art and carft of visual effects (vfx) has progressed by leaps and bounds enabling filmmakers to use computer technology to save on crucial time and money. Directed by Karan Johar, the Shah Rukh - Kajol starrer My Name is Khan had some path breaking vfx executed by redchillies.vfx. The Mumbai based vfx house had a team of 100 artists working rigorously for three months to make the 380 vfx shots, and thus the film, a creative success. Speaking to Bollywood Hungama, Haresh Hingorani (Harry), Production Director at redchillies.vfx shared, "For us, creating the flood sequence was the biggest challenge. Since we had to play with computer generated (CG) water and simulations, the sequence became even more complicated. Apart from flood sequence, there were several other chroma background shots, CG elements and background creation, which took time to complete." In this exclusive case study, we bring you some of the exciting shots executed by redchillies.vfx, courtesy Fox Searchlight, Dharma Productions. Special thanks to the redchillies.vfx team - Haresh Hingorani, Arjun Mitra and Keitan Yadav. Click on the thumbnails below to check out the shot breakdown:

Akon rescues Aadesh at Aqeel's club

2010-03-15 12:50:46

It isn't often that we see two entertainers stand up for one another in public. At DJ Aqeel's club Hype on Wednesday night, Akon attended to wave to the crowds. A rather ugly situation was averted when the personnel at the Club tried to stop composer Aadesh Shrivastav from accompanying Akon to the podium. Akon had to intervene and remind the Club's staff that Aadesh was like his brother. Says Aadesh, "Yes that was a rather embarrassing situation, I'd have lost my temper if it wasn't for Akon. Akon did persuade me to come on stage with him. He has treated me like a brother from the time I got to know him five years ago. When the idea of a Punjabi track came to me, I was hesitant to put it forward to Akon, considering his packed schedule in Mumbai. But he immediately agreed." The Punjabi recording with Akon on Thursday was a riot with the singer savouring the words to the fullest. Says Aadesh, "I wrote the lyrics myself. Akon sang the track about the kudi who took away his kaleja like true Punjabi munda. I have given him a rhythm section consisting of violins, the daff, a matka, dholak and table. Akon freaked out." The singer left Mumbai on Thursday night. Aadesh Shrivastav said, "The craze for Akon singing in any language is phenomenal. You've to judge how popular Akon is among youngsters in Mumbai by the crowds that gathered for him."

Wishing Abhay Deol a very happy Birthday

2010-03-15 05:25:10

He's the Deol who has managed to break away from the norms and made a niche for himself. Like they say maturity and age are far from synonymous, Abhay Deol has done what most people would steer clear from, and that is to be unconventional in every possible way. Thanks to that, he managed to find respect and appreciation among the film fraternity and his fans. And we are sure this Young Deol, will keep surprising us with each passing Year. Here's wishing Abhay one the most unconventional and happy birthday from Bollywood Hungama.

Kareena and Shahid won't be promoting Milenge Milenge together

2010-03-15 06:25:37

Plans for bringing Kareena and Shahid Kapoor together to promote their pending project Milenge Milenge have been called off. It has now been decided by producer Boney Kapoor that the pair will promote the film individually. This, to avoid Kareena who's in a committed relationship, any embarrassment and awkwardness, although Shahid who had no objections to collaborating with Kareena on the promotion seems unaware of these developments. When asked if he'd be willing to promote the film jointly with Kareena, Shahid says enthusiastically, "Yes, I'll do everything I can to promote it. Of course I'll do everything in my power to see the film gets properly released. It's my film." Shahid says he has no problems whatsoever promoting the film with Kareena. However, producer Boney Kapoor feels it's wiser and more discreet to let Shahid and Kareena do separate promotional work. Says Boney, "We're getting Shahid and Kareena to do separate promotional activities. That way we give them space to be comfortable with the situation and also we get twice the amount of publicity for Milenge Milenge that we would if the pair promoted the film jointly." Shahid has not only decided to go all-out for Milenge Milenge, he has also been taking interest in the release date to ensure that it releases at a time when it is likely to get the best audience. He recently had a meeting with producer Boney Kapoor and they mutually agreed to postpone the release from April to later during the year. Says Shahid, "We met and took a joint decision. Boneyji was co-operative. Otherwise I'd have had three releases-Milenge Milenge, Paathshala and Badmaash Company-in one month." Boney says he's getting Milenge Milenge ready for release in the last week of June or the first week of July. "Milenge Milenge would be Shahid's last release until his father's film Mausam. Kareena and he look gorgeous together." In fact Shahid is enormously enthusiastic about Milene Milenge. Last week he met the film's director Satish Kaushik. Says Satish emotionally, "Though we live in the same building Shahid and I never meet! I know him from the time he was a child. On Saturday night, we bumped into each other in our high-rise compound after a party. We spoke for nearly an hour about Milenge Milenge. Shahid told me the project is very dear to him and that he would go all out to promote the film however my producer Boney Kapoor and I wanted. Shahid is at our disposal. He also asked me to update him on music video shoot."

Live Chat: Ajay Devgn on March 17 at 1430 hrs IST

2010-03-15 09:49:23

He is among the most versatile actors we have in Bollywood today. Having started out as an action hero with films like Phool Aur Kaante, Jigar, Vijaypath etc., this talented actor slowly moved on to display his serious and sensitive side in films like Zakhm, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, and Company. Just as one thought he is getting typecast, he made a dramatic turnaround by starring in some laugh riots like Golmaal, Golmaal Returns and All The Best. In case you are still wondering whom we are talking about, it is none other than the super talented Ajay Devgn Ajay's latest release Atithi Tum Kab Jaoge opened recently to some amazing reviews and the film has been growing from strength to strength with each passing day with both the masses and the classes lapping up this laugh-riot. Hence it's rather apt that we have Ajay as our 'Atithi' on Bollywood Hungama's Live Video Chat. Ajay would be there to chat with all of you on Wednesday, March 17, at 1430 hrs IST. This is one rendezvous you surely don't want to miss.

Wishing Aamir Khan a very happy Birthday

2010-03-14 06:30:18

Bryan Adams' most popular song went '18 till I die'. A statement that serves true for our very own Bollywood's talent house Aamir Khan, who till date can carry of the role of a college student with just as much ease as he did in his teen years in Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak. It's as if age surpasses him with each passing year. He has not only grown in years, the man has grown in talent too. There is none like any him in our industry yet he humbly refuses any flattering title one might wish to give him. He is popularly known to do only one film a year and the kind that every fan of his waits with bated breath. His work is nothing short of a masterpiece but this perfectionist self is never satisfied. His zest to do better has made him a benchmark for quality in our industry, and Bollywood Hungama would take this opportunity to wish this phenomenon called Aamir Khan a very happy birthday. You too can post your birthday wishes for Aamir in the comments section below:

Aamir to meet James Cameron in Delhi; Ranbir, Asin will also be present

2010-03-13 08:29:53

Aamir Khan's intellect is not a facade he puts on for his films but he is truly a man who knows exactly what he's talking about in all seriousness. To validate that is the fact that he has been invited to a highly prestigious summit in New Delhi today- the 13th March with none other than the esteemed Oscar Winning director James Cameron. The Summit is being held on the subject of Reality v/s Idealism and will also see young Bollywood actors Asin and Ranbir Kapoor who would be the voice of the Youth of Bollywood. Asin would be speaking on how the youth can break free and think out of the box to bring change in a country that is much in need of it. The two young stars will also be attending the exclusive gala dinner which will be addressed by James Cameron and Aamir and what makes all of this extremely special is the fact that only a select few personalities have been invited to this summit and dinner. Aamir in fact would also have the opportunity of bringing in his 45th birthday in the presence of stalwarts like James Cameron. Must say this is one occasion the actor isn't likely to forget in a long, long time.

Rajeev Khandelwal to star in Tanuja Chandra's next

2010-03-13 09:27:53

Talented director Tanuja Chandra, who has made some hard-hitting films like Dushman, Sangharsh and Sur, is all set to start her next directorial venture. The film is apparently a romantic comedy and stars Rajeev Khandelwal and Vir Das in lead roles. The hunt for the female lead is still on. The as-yet-untitled film will be produced by Anuj Saxena's Maverick Productions. The film is likely to go on floors in the middle of this year.

Jacqueline in Pepsi commercial with Ranbir Kapoor and Sanjay Dutt

2010-03-13 04:29:54

The Jaane Kahan Se Aayi Hai girl is surely spreading her magic. It's Jacqueline Fernandez who is creating the craze and how! Coming April would see Jacqueline opposite Ranbir Kapoor and Sanjay Dutt spreading the 'Wow! Factor' for a Pepsi commercial and if you're wondering why Jacqueline then the ad filmmaker is asking why not. The story goes that the ad filmmaker of Pepsi commercial had Ranbir and Sanju baba in tow but was on a lookout for a face that is not only fresh but compliments Ranbir and adds the much needed glam factor to the commercial. Nikhil Advani being a good friend of the ad filmmaker showed some promotional videos and scenes of his upcoming production Jaane Kahan Se Aayi Hai. Says a source, "The makers were blown away by Jackie and insisted that they wanted her in the ad." So convinced were they about Jackie that when the dates of the commercial and the promotional video of the film were clashing, the makers adjusted their dates to suit Jacqueline's. As a matter of fact even after the commercial, the entire team couldn't stop raving about her. Well Jacqueline, just like Pepsi, seems like you too have a Wow Factor in you.

Sanjay Gupta announces release dates of The Great Indian Butterfly, Pankh

2010-03-12 12:28:17

Sanjay Gupta now treads a new path and is launching his new brand White Feather Arthouse Films. He is signalling off this journey with two films that are slated to chart new territories in the realm of `new age sensibility' movies. The two films are The Great Indian Butterfly and Pankh. The first film to be released is The Great Indian Butterfly that releases on the 26th of March, 2010. Directed by Sarthak Dasgupta, the film stars Aamir Bashir, Sandhya Mridul, Koel Purie and Barry John. The film has already been invited to prestigious film festivals like the Indo-America Arts Council Film Festival and the River to River, Florence Indian Film Festival, which is the first festival in the world to be devoted entirely to films from and about India. The Great Indian Butterfly is about a young couple searching for a mystical butterfly that brings peace, love, luck and happiness. Even though a simple story, the film recounts the complexities of a changing India. Says Sarthak Dasgupta, "We have made a difference in the world through the power of our ideas. The film tries to capture that unique Indian spirit. It's not esoteric and complex. It's a simple story of discovery in present day India". The Great Indian Butterfly will be releasing on March 26. With Pankh, which releases on the 2nd of April they set out to present trailblazing movies. This film pushes the envelope so far that it has torn it open. It has already generated a raging controversy in the media. The film stars Bipasha Basu, Mahesh Manjrekar, Lilette Dubey, Ronit Roy, Sanjeeda Sheikh and introduces two new kids Maradona Rebello and Amit Purohit. It is directed by Sudipto Chattopadhyay a national award winning director. The film is a heart rendering tale of the plight of a young man with a traumatic past. It reveals the sordid reality of gender confusion within a dramatic and controversial context. About a young boy who plays a girl's role on screen. Says Sudipto, "This was a story that needed telling. It is a film that will touch every sensitive soul. Pankh is Bollywood's wildest take so far." Pankh will be releasing on April 2.

Preity Zinta creates AIDS awareness

2010-03-12 12:36:23

It's probably a season that can see a beautiful coming together of Bollywood and Philanthropy. Not that we're surprised but instead it makes us very proud how some of the most popular stars have taken it upon themselves to do their bit for the society. The name that has just pencilled itself in to this group is the pretty Preity Zinta who has been appointed the goodwill ambassador of the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS in India. One might think that she would give a few speeches and do a few commercials and be done with. But no! Miss Zinta takes such responsibilities quite seriously. The lady would be travelling to the rural areas of Punjab where AIDS is quite rampant, and create awareness as to how one can keep the disease at bay. If that wasn't enough, she has taken the decision that all the players of her IPL Premiere League team - King XI Punjab will be donning red ribbons and for the match against Delhi daredevils, an HIV positive person will do the toss to spread the message against stigma and discrimination. The lady is truly a bundle of surprise. Besides shooting an AIDS commercial with her team's captain Kumar Sangakkara and other team players, the team will be donating 25% of the profit they earn from selling their merchandise to UNAIDS. India is home to 2.3 million HIV positive people; it makes us so proud to know that someone like Miss Zinta, who holds the position to create awareness about AIDS, is taking her responsibility so seriously.

Hollywood calling for Shah Rukh Khan; to do a film with Leonardo Di Caprio

2010-03-12 06:13:33

The big news Now this development really gets the antennas stand right up with all attention reserved for what next is really in the offing. Believe it or not but a major Hollywood-Bollywood collaboration is right up in the anvil and two of the bigger superstars from different ends of the world are all set to share screen space. The film in question is Xtrme City and the men in question - hold your breath - Shah Rukh Khan and Leonardo Di Caprio. Yes, even though all of this seemed like a dream till a few years back, it is indeed turning out to be a reality since work is progressing on brisk speed to get the scripting in place for the film. There is quite some action on pre-production front as well and Xtrme City is looking positive at going on floors by end of 2010. If that indeed happens, Shah Rukh can well be expected to be really busy all through 2010 and 2011 with Ra 1 and the sequel of Don required to be wrapped up before Xtrme City starts taking a shape. How it happened Informs our source, "Not many know but when Shah Rukh visited Berlin for the premiere of My Name Is Khan, his agenda also included a groundbreaking movie deal. He was power-dining with Hollywood bigwigs like director Martin Scorsese and screenplay writer Paul Schrader over the project which is touted to star Bollywood's reigning superstar with Hollywood heartthrob Leonardo Di Caprio. Karan Johar, David Weisman and screenplay writer Mushtaq Shiekh were present at the meeting." The film doesn't really come as a complete piece of surprise though. Yes, Shah Rukh's presence has raised quite a few eyebrows though one could have expected to see this coming since his close friend and associate Mushtaq Shiekh had already been commissioned to write the film. The director was finalised as Paul Schrader, the same man who had made Robert De Niro come up with a career defining act in Taxi Driver. On the other hand, Mushtaq has made Shah Rukh Khan go over the top as never before in Om Shanti Om. When Paul Schrader had earlier visited India in 2008, he had indeed talked about collaborating on a project that would marry Indian ethos with Western sentiment. His Xtrme City was touted to combine the cinematic traditions of both Bollywood and Hollywood and provide wholesome cross-culture entertainment. For this purpose, he had written the film along with Mushtaq who does come with a super strong Shah Rukh connection. In the past, he has authored bestselling biographies for Shah Rukh Khan like 'SRK: Still Reading Khan' and 'Shah Rukh Can'. He has also written books like 'The Making of Asoka', 'Devdas - The Indian Hamlet' and 'The Making of Om Shanti Om'. Of course his claim to fame are screenwriting credits for Om Shanti Om, Billu and Shah Rukh's under production Ra 1. At that time, another piece of announcement had stated - "This groundbreaking production will showcase a Bollywood mega-star and a Hollywood movie-star sharing top billing in a major motion picture. The film is destined for both the subcontinent and international markets. In fact, Xtrme City is already in the process of casting the two star leads. The film is going to be a hugely mounted affair with a multi million budget." The superstars However, not many would have assumed that the two leads would be none other than Shah Rukh Khan and Leonardo Di Caprio. Meanwhile, Paul Schrader had been hinting all along that he would work only with the biggest Bollywood star and that is why he was keen to sign Shah Rukh for the leading role. It was also quite clear that if the two actors indeed sign up on the dotted line to star in the multi-million project, both Shah Rukh and Leonardo Di Caprio would get top billing. Xtrme City will be an action-thriller set in Mumbai covering the criminal underbelly of the city. When contacted, Mushtaq Shiekh said, "It's too premature to discuss the casting of the film. But yes, Shah Rukh and Leonardo did meet up in Berlin. The meeting was just a casual one; they were there for the premiere of their films Shutter Island and My Name Is Khan respectively. The highlight of the meeting was Karan Johar who entertained everyone with absolutely delightful Bollywood trivia." On the other hand Paul Schrader, who has directed 18 films, confirms that the Hollywood-Bollywood collaboration is certainly on. "I hadn't thought about working in India", says the man who has previously worked in Japan, Italy, Romania, Israel and Morocco. However, now I see Bollywood as the next great frontier. Xtrme City is a cross-cultural entertainment that merges the cinematic traditions of Bollywood and Hollywood. I am indeed excited to make a film which is accessible and meaningful to both Indian and American cultures." Adds Mushtaq, "Working on Xtrme City with a master screenwriter like Paul Schrader has been exhilarating and a marvellous illumination for me. He is tireless. We kept at it until achieving a perfect emotional balance for our story. We wanted to reveal the best of each world in surprising, entertaining, inspiring ways. That's what I like about Paul's screenplay. Ours is a film that never takes either culture for granted." The Martin Scorcese factor Meanwhile another big name, Martin Scorcese, too turned out to be quite a handful in this meeting that saw Shah Rukh Khan, Leonardo Di Caprio, Karan Johar, Paul Schrader and Mushtaq Shiekh coming together. The man who has directed Leonardo in Shutter Island, The Departed, The Aviator and Gangs of New York in the past is pretty abreast with the going-ons in Bollywood as well. "I was amazed by how Martin Scorsese was completely in sync with all that is happening in Bollywood. His knowledge about old Hindi films left me shocked", says Mushtaq in awe, "In that one room, seeing such gigantic movie business folks was almost like seeing a mega Hollywood-Bollywood movie live. Their interest in Bollywood cinema is just as animated as how we marvel at their film culture." The release Adds the source, "The film is aiming for a late 2010 shoot in Mumbai, New York and the Persian Gulf. The makers are hoping for a 2011 release. As with many Bollywood films, Xtrme City will integrate thriller, drama and comedy elements. The movie will be family-friendly though there would certainly be elements of violence. However, sex will be downplayed, though there would be quintessential song and dance routines." Well, My Name Is Khan has already earned its stripes in America by being declared the highest grossing 'specialty film' of 2010. Though this tag does make one look at the overall success a little more closely, the term 'specialty' may get a whole new perspective if he succeeds in pulling off a casting-coup. Also, it is now obvious that Shah Rukh's hush-hush meeting in Berlin will spark off a new interest in Bollywood stars actually managing to make a Hollywood breakthrough. Will Shah Rukh lead the pack with Xtrme City? From what it seems, both Shah Rukh and Leonardo Di Caprio might be pulling off one of the biggest movie collaboration in recent times. What we have heard is just the tip of the iceberg! About Xtrme City: Xtrme City is an action thriller set in the brutal, impenetrable, criminal orbit of Mumbai, India. Curtis Hawkley, a former U.S. Ranger, is obliged to return to Mumbai when his father-in-law's youngest daughter is kidnapped by a powerful underworld Don. In order to save the girl he must first find his old friend Raj Rangan, an Indian Special Forces Commando who became a crime world enforcer. After reuniting and saving the girl, the two men are drawn deeper into the "bhai" underworld of Mumbai than they expected. Sense of duty compels them to take on a system of corruption, revenge, and familial obligations.

Rajshri revives Tansen; hunt begins for main lead

2010-03-12 06:21:12

A year back, Tansen was a hot project in the making. While Barjatyas from Rajshri Productions were backing this mega budget project, Satish Kaushik was already on board as the director of the film. Though there was no official confirmation on the main lead, it was being whispered in the industry circles that Abhishek Bachchan had already been sounded for the much coveted role. However, post Karzzzz, Delhi 6 and Ek Vivaah Aisa Bhi, all seemed to be forgotten about Tansen. Abhishek Bachchan had double trouble with Drona followed by Delhi 6. Karzzzz was a shocker for Satish Kaushik because in spite of so much hype, it was the remake factor that went against it. As for Barjatyas, their small budgeted Ek Vivah Aisa Bhi (Sonu Sood, Esha Kopikar) didn't quite turn out to be another Vivah and folded up rather soon. Tansen seemed to be a talk of the past and it was more or less apparent that it was shelved for good. This is where a pleasant surprise comes in with Satish Kaushik coming out of a brief hibernation (as a director) and announcing that the epic musical drama is still pretty much on. Explaining the delay in the film coming on floors, Satish Kaushik says, "Tansen was a big budgeted film and we wanted to give it the best possible platform. We could have got it earlier but then there was a big slap of recession during last couple of years. However, the film never stopped and we continued to work hard on the script." As things stand now, the script is being written by Irshad Kamil, popular lyricist who has written number of chartbuster songs for composer Pritam. As per Kaushik, Barjatyas are gung go about the project and taking active interest in giving Tansen the best shape possible so that it lives up to the great expectations that audience has from a character and film of this stature. "Raj (Barjatya) Babu and Sooraj Barjatya are sitting on the script sessions with us from Day One", says Kaushik, "In fact there have been days when we have worked on it for more than 12 hours at stretch. They are totally involved in the making of Tansen and even though Sooraj isn't directing it, he is taking active interest in the film. In fact just a few days back, we spoke again on taking the film forward. I hadn't announced any new film after Karzzzz since my time was completely eaten up by Tansen. Rest assured, Tansen is pretty much on and certainly not shelved." When the film first came in news, Satish Kaushik was heard as stating - "Abhishek is someone who can play the role well as he also has a certain star status and fan following. He has the look and intensity. He also has the dialogue delivery of his father. And we do need a Tansen who thinks in Hindi and talks the language fluently." Even spokesperson from Rajshri had admitted that Abhishek was approached for the role. He had said, "Yes, we have spoken to Abhishek about Tansen and he has agreed to sit with us for the narration once our script is done. We are still busy scripting the film. " So coming to the million dollar question, is Abhishek Bachchan finally playing the role of Tansen? There is a shocker in store as Satish Kaushik goes on record to state that the young man hasn't been finalised for the film yet. "No, Abhishek is not confirmed for Tansen. There is an entire rethinking being done on the film's cast. Why just Abhishek, nobody has actually been decided and formalised to star in Tansen. We would be casting in a couple of months and it would be there for all to know then." With probability of Abhishek featuring as Tansen seemingly quite low, one wonders whom do Satish Kaushik and Barjatyas have in mind for the title role. There are only a handful of actors who could fit in well when it comes to a period film. Add to that the genre being musical and the film's scale being high, there are further limitations that are set when it comes to making a project viable. Watch this space for more!

Kareena Kapoor to endorse Sony Ericsson Mobiles

2010-03-12 07:22:13

With immense stardom comes immense credibility. How and why is completely debatable. But it's a fact that Kareena Kapoor can easily vouch for. The Bollywood Diva is a wanted entity by one and all brands. If Anne French, Sony Vaio, Head and Shoulder and Airtel weren't enough, joining their league now is Sony Ericsson. Yes! Kareena will now be the brand ambassador for Sony Ericsson Mobiles. No wonder then that she is termed as the endorsement queen in Bollywood. The ad film of her newly adopted brand has been directed by Director Anuj Alia, and is shot in Mehboob Studio. With a line up of big films and a number of endorsements deals, this woman is completely on a roll.

Karisma Kapoor blessed with a baby boy

2010-03-12 07:43:50

Kareena Kapoor is busy with films and endorsements that are pouring her way while sister Karisma is on the family way. Karisma Kapoor, 36, gave birth to a baby boy today morning at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai. He is Karisma's second child after her daughter Samaira. Gathered at the hospital along side Karisma is the entire Kapoor family to give the latest arrival a grand welcome. Bollywood Hungama congratulates Karisma and the Kapoor family, on this very special day and wishes them the very best.

Konkona Sen Sharma, Ranvir Shorey in suspense-thriller

2010-03-12 08:41:35

Konkona Sen Sharma and Ranvir Shorey have been teamed in a suspense-thriller, which will go on floors shortly. Produced by Denis Selarka and directed by first-time director Amitabh Verma, the suspense-thriller has every character knitting a conspiracy against the other. The film will be shot in Alibaug. Says producer Denis Selarka about his yet-untitled film, "Every character has grey shades. Every character is trying to outdo the other. There is a mastermind though." Plans are on to release the film in November this year.