Interview : Shayan Munshi goes slow & steady
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| His life has taken some unpredictable twists and turns. From national level champ and international model to Bollywood Romeo and prime witness in a much-publicised murder trial, Shayan Munshi has been making news without even trying. Back on screen after a long hibernation, the elusive actor opens up in a rare interview Excerpts from the Interview: Where were you all these months? Well, soon after Jhankar Beats released I was approached by a UK-based agency, Model One, to work under its wing. With my modelling background it was too good an opportunity to pass up. Besides, at the time I wasn't sure if I wanted to be stuck with movies. But while in London I discovered I wanted to get back so I started taking Urdu lessons to brush up my diction. Now I'm here and ready, growing with every new film. But in the interim you lost out on the advantage of Jhankaar Beats. Maybe I have, situationally, but I like to tell myself that people liked my work earlier so may be they'll like me better now that I've improved considerably. Okay, so I've fallen back a little but hey, I'm not running a race! In the posters of Ahista Ahista Abhay Deol is played up. Didn't that rankle? Ahista Ahista is Abhay's film. He and Soha (Ali Khan) are the main protagonists. Mine is just a special appearance. I'm the surprise element of the film, the catalyst who makes the audience take a call in their heads about whether the decision taken by at the end was right or wrong. If I had been played up in the promos too the film would have seemed like a love triangle, which it isn't. My Brother Nikhil was another special appearance. It was a friendly appearance. My Brother Nikhil was something of a warm-up film for me. It also gave me a chance to live my life again as a sportsman. Not many know this but I have been a National level tennis player and have been swimming at district level championships too. So what else has been happening? Well, there's been Anjan Dutta's crossover film, Bong Connection with my wife Peeya. It was screened at the Osians' Film Festival recently to an audience of 1200 and given the fact that 50 per cent of them were non-Bengalis, the response and their level of understanding was very encouraging. I'd say the film triggered off something because after the screening I had people coming up and enquiring if I was keen on doing more Bengali films. There have been some offers from Kolkata—the commercial, hardcore type. I'm open but at the same time my priority is a career in Hindi films.
What Hindi films have you been doing besides My Brother Nikhil and Ahista Ahista? There's Sabko Intezaar Hai, again with Peeya, in which I play a boy from Bhopal who is house-hunting in Mumbai. It took me back to my days in the city when I was meeting up with brokers everyday to look up places. And of course, there is Amar Joshi Shaheed Ho Gaya. That's the big one. A black comedy, it's a satire on Bollywood and stars Suniel Shetty, Om Puri, Rajpal Yadav, Neena Gupta and Udita Goswami opposite me. (With a smile) I'm playing the country's No. 1 romantic hero and a superstar lover boy.Amar Joshi.. is an interesting film with great music. It's scheduled to hit the theatres in November. So you'll be seeing a lot of me this year. Ahista Ahista has a chart-topping score too. Yeah, and it also has an interesting narrative. Ahista Ahista is a commercial Hindi film, but the emotions are very real and not over-the-top. I really enjoyed the script and working with Shivam (director Shivam Nair), Abhay and Soha. There was no rivalry but a lot of trust and faith...And a friendship that just kept growing. We were four like-minded, light-hearted people who got along very well. In fact, the whole unit was great and treated me with a lot of love and respect. (With a chuckle) Of course, for me what has made the film memorable is a stunt that required me to jump from the first floor. I jumped...and tore my calf cartilage. I got married soon after so the operation had to be postponed till after the shaadi. It was a real 'pain'...And guess what, that shot's not even there in the film: it's been edited out. |
| Copyright 2006 by MusicIndiaOnLine.com |
Interview : Anything Anil asks me to do, I'll do blindly: Akshaye Khanna
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| Mumbai - After completing the hush-hush 'Mahatma Versus Gandhi' for actor-turned-producer Anil Kapoor, Akshaye Khanna has been signed for another film by his senior. 'Anil is producing and acting whereas I'll be just co-starring with him. We are starting by year-end. It's a fantastic script. It's going to be directed by a south Indian director. I'm so looking forward to working with Anil again after 'Taal',' Akshaye told us. 'Anything Anil asks me to do, I'll do blindly. I love all actors. I love their honesty and their lies. But there're certain co-stars whom I've genuinely learnt from. Anil is one of them. 'Aamir is another major influence. Each time I sit down with these two, I come away enriched. Every time I go to Anil's office I come out with new positive thoughts. I might be depressed or upset when I visit Anil. But after the visit, I come back feeling much better.' Akshaye goes gaga over his co-stars in his latest film 'Aap Ki Khatir'. 'Everyone is outstanding. But Priyanka Chopra is specially good. I'm not joking, she's wonderful in the film. I really respect Priyanka. And that's an odd thing to say that for someone who's so much junior to me. She has a tremendous zest for her craft. I'm very impressed by her. 'Even when she's 65, she'll be working full-throttle. Like Bebo (Kareena Kapoor), I find Priyanka very honest. In both, what you see is what you get.' Akshaye is waiting for another opportunity to work with his new favourites. 'And not just Bebo and Priyanka, I want to work with Dino Morea again. He's very chilled out and sweet. Everyone was very relaxed. The atmosphere during 'Aap Ki Khatir' was very 'picnicky'. That's the kind of film it is.' Akshaye agrees director Dharmesh Darshan's 'Aap Ki Khatir' looks very different from anything he has done so far. 'Of course, I had to adapt in a major way to Dharmeshji's style. But that's something one has to do with every director. An actor-director combination is like a marriage. A certain amount of adjustment and compromise have to be made from both ends. 'He had to work in a different style with me as compared with what he did in his collaboration with any other actor. I think Dharamesh-ji has managed to achieve what he set out to. It's a departure not only for Dharmesh-ji, but also for me. 'Though I've done light romantic roles I've never done anything so fluffy before. Dharmesh-ji has chosen a completely uncharacteristic script and music.' Akshaye has lovely memories of his stint in England for 'Aap Ki Khatir'. 'I haven't done too many films abroad. I did Rishi Kapoor-ji's 'Aa Ab Laut Chalen' in the US and now 'Aap Ki Khatir'. I've changed so much since then. I was an immature young arrogant kid and absolutely not ready for the responsibilities of an actor.' Akshaye admits he was lost in his own world. 'Now I'm more receptive to those around me. In fact, I'm more open to new ideas. In 'Aap Ki Khatir' I've recited a nazm. That could be stepping-stone to singing. I'm fond of singing. I've sung on stage at least 25 times. Given a chance I'd like to sing in my films.' Akshaye cannot deny his judgment over his last release 'Shaadi Se Pehle' failed. 'I quite agree I was disappointed by the outcome. But sometimes one's judgment does go awry. And no matter what the cynics say, 'Shaadi Se Pehle' has recovered its investments.' What about the reported fallout with Subhash Ghai? 'How is it possible that someone whom I regard so highly would suddenly become a source of hostility? Subhash-ji is so gung-ho about me as an actor that I'd be foolish to even think about any conflict with him. 'I really have no idea where that rumour came from. There are lots of people in this industry who create unnecessary controversies. I'm sad about this. I vehemently deny any differences with Subhash-ji. It's one of those things that are impossible to happen.' Akshaye is having the time of his life. He has two releases lined up after 'Aap Ki Khatir' - Anil Kapoor's 'Mahatma Versus Gandhi' and Nikhil Advani's 'Salaam-e-Ishq'. 'I'm not paired with Priyanka in 'Salaam…' but I've some work with her. My co-star is Ayesha Takia. She, too, has tremendous potential.' |
| Copyright 2006 by MusicIndiaOnLine.com |
Interview : People have accepted me as Circuit: Arshad
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| The route of filmdom has been quite rocky for Arshad Warsi. After debuting as an actor, he took to doing supporting roles and is now in the best phase of his career enjoying his star status. Arshad says that it is pretty tough to be on the top and live up to expectations. But he wants to continue to surprise people with his talent. He got a new lease of life with 'Munnabhai MBBS' and his combination with Sanjay Dutt like tea and biscuit turned to be the favourite of everybody. Once again they come together with the next from the series 'Lage Raho Munnabhai' releasing this Friday. Excerpts from the Interview: You're a safe bet for the comedy films nowadays. How do you feel about it? I do films that excite me now or I don't do them at all. I go entirely by gut-feel. I've developed enough confidence in myself after Seher to do different roles- serious, negative or comic. I'm trying to cut down on comedy. I love doing it, but I don't want to reach a place where I'll start disliking it. I want to do other, more unexpected things, and comedy in smaller doses. Did Munnabhai MBBS revive you from the bad phase you were in? It did give me a second lease of life in Bollywood but the bad phase of my career didn't get over with it. I didn't get a single offer after its release. I sat idle for eight months at home and out of frustration signed two bogus films. I got offers, which were similar to Circuit. All wanted me to play the sidekick of the main hero. I refused to do all those films. I went to Raju (Rajkumar Hirani) and asked him why I wasn't getting good films. He said that directors were not sure what kind of roles to offer me after Circuit. Are you happy with the state now? I'm feeling better. I'm doing my works with utmost sincerity. Raj Kaushal's 'Anthony Kaun Hai' had a completely different storyline and I went for it. It's good to see that people have appreciated me in the film. Tell us something about your forthcoming release 'Lage Raho Munnabhai'. All the actors in the sequel are the same, just playing different characters. It's fantastic working with this gang. My Circuit character has much more to do this time. Usually I do a film, forget about it and move ahead. To play the same character again is a problem. I'm quite petrified, actually. I had to see the film again! Expectations are so high, especially for me, that it's scaring the daylights out of me. It's tough being known as a bankable star. What is your role in the film? I again do the same act as I did in the original. People have accepted me as Circuit, I can't change my image. How different was it to work with Vidya Balan in 'Lage Raho Munnabhai' after working with Gracy Singh in 'Munnabhai MBBS'? Vidya is a terrific actor and an equally nice human being. When compared she is better than Gracy Singh. She doesn't throw tantrums, is very chilled and makes you feel comfortable. Gracy's presence couldn't add to Munnabhai MBBS but Vidya's does. Gracy is a fantastic actress but Vidya is a good soul too. 'Lage Raho Munnabhai' has huge expectations. How are you feeling about it? I am sure that people will love the film. Vidhu Vinod Chopra didn't think twice before spending money on the project. So obviously the outcome will be good. Why did you reject Rituparno Ghosh's Sunglass? Ritu was offering me remuneration, which was not possible for me. Initially I agreed to do the film but later he wanted to reduce the price and lastly he was offering me 5 percent of my remuneration. I have a family to support and loans to pay off. I'm not here to do charity because I am an actor. The production house is big enough to pay my price, so why should I compromise? |
| Copyright 2006 by MusicIndiaOnLine.com |
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BOLLYWOOD BANTER
By Naresh Kumar - Eye TV India Bureau Neha: denies college affair Neha Dhupia's affair with her college mate and squash player Hrithik Bhattacharya is the talk of the filmi town these days. Though Neha has always been denying her romance with this player during her college days, the news is being widely discussed in industry circles. However, Neha calls it a mere ten-year-old friendship, and nothing else. Will Neha throw more light on it to avoid any further talk about it? Isha's allergy to colors
Nandita's marriage splits Actor and social activist Nandita Das, daughter of topmost painter Jatin Das, who married with senior ad man Soumya Sen with fanfare only two years ago, has split recently. Though it was a second marriage for Nandita Das, the couple settled the matter quite amicably when they found it unworkable any longer. Nandita Das has shot to fame in Bollywood because of her art cinema. Madhur unveils 'Traffic Signal' Madhur Bhandarkar who has entered into a joint venture with Percept Picture Company celebrated the success of his 'Corporate' and unveiled his forthcoming 'Traffic Signal' before a large gathering including the film's cast. Madhur has expressed his confidence in his recent understanding reached with Percept. Among those present at the party were John Abraham, Atul Kulkarni, Shreyas Talpade and Kunal Khemu, besides Payal Rohatgi and Neetu Chandra. Grand Malhaar The spirit of rains or monsoon in all forms of its expression stole the limelight at a recent celebration in New Delhi. While Ashima and Leena showcased their coveted designs to a Shubha Mudgal's melodious "Ab Ke Sawan" soundtrack, a Kathak performance and models' walking the ramp were the other attractions. Grand Malhaar was the main theme of the four-day celebrations held by Delhiites. "Paani Re Paani' was followed by Indian melodies on the piano and a classical chorus. Jhingiani banks on 'With Love Tumhara' Pretty and innocent looking Preeti Jhingiani who began her career with a big movie like 'Mohabbatein' hasn't yet fared too well in her career and she blames her luck and wrong choice of films for it. However, she isn't out and is banking on her forthcoming 'Jaane Kya Hoga' and 'With Love Tumhara'. When asked about her future career she quips, "( Naa ) Jaane Kya Hoga." She is confident though about her another movie titled 'With Love Tumhara' that has been shot in scenic beauty of Kullu-Manali. According to her, the movie's story is about loyalty and not infidelity as has been the case in Bollywood movies in the past. Preeti has blasted the myth of her alleged affair with Praveen Dabbas. "There is no such thing. Besides, such rumors are spread usually at the time of release of an actor's movie. This isn't new in my case." Isha's allergy to colors Isha Koppikar is terribly afraid of black and brinjal colors. This was revealed during the shooting of 'Gangster'. Whenever the actor was confronted with black gun or anything black including some one dressed in black, Isha felt terribly upset. Consequently, the movie director called Isha to his chamber. No sooner Isha saw a black gun's reflection in the mirror in the director's room than she perspired. When the director gave her his hanky to dry her sweat, Isha ran out of the room as the hanky happened to be blue! It is wondered how the director completed the shooting of 'Gangster' starring her! |
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BOLLYWOOD BANTER
By Naresh Kumar - Eye TV India Bureau Jackie Shroff as Sai Baba Jaggu Dada alias Jackie Shroff will now be seen in another avatar. This time you will watch him in the role of a baba, none other than Sai Baba, the Godman of hundreds of millions all over the world, in Deepak Balraj Vij's 'Ek Dharam Sai Baba'. Jackie says that he is an ardent follower of Sai Baba's philosophy 'Sab Ka Malik Ek', and will play Godman when the latter was 28 years old. Jackie has worked with this producer in the latter's 'Hafta Bandh', 'Stuntman' and 'Hafta Vasuli'. Besides a children movie titled 'Uncle Bhoot', Jackie is also acting in Vinod Chopra's 'Eklavya', Sachin Bajaj's 'Naqsha'. J.Ramanathan's 'Divorce', Mrs Shatrughan Sinha's Dil Lekar Dekho' and a Telugu movie. Seema returns with 'Water' Seema Biswas who played the coveted character of Phoolan Devi in Shekhar Kapoor's 'Bandit Queen' and later as mother of actress Manisha Koirala in 'Khamoshi-The Musical' has returned to Bollywood after a long gap. She has been recently screened in Deepa Mehta's controversial 'Water' depicting the awful conditions of West Bengal widows. Though the movie has been involved in a controversy in India, it has been widely acclaimed abroad following it's screening at the Toronto International Film Festival. Ashutosh, UTV make 'Akbar Jodha' Director Ashutosh Gowariker and Ronnie Screwvala of UTV have joined hands once again for making a film costing Rs 370 million with the cast comprising top stars like Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai. The film is titled 'Akbar Jodha' set in the 16th century Mughal era. The movie focuses on the alliance of a Mughal emperor Akbar with a Rajput princess, Jodha Bai. Gowariker says that this is his first ever love story movie based on deep research. He poses a question; Salim was born from Jodha and Akbar's marriage, but no one knows how their love came to be. He adds and elaborates, " It's a modern film set in historical times, but not a period movie. I am not showing history, I am depicting emotions." Tracing the background of the concept of the movie he says that the warrior-like Hrithik and the beauty of Ash has taken the shape of Akbar and Jodha in his movie. Ronnie explains that he and director Ashutosh work together though there is always a question of when and how. Vishal's next is Julius Ceasar Vishal Bhardwaj who released his 'Omkara' recently based on Shakespear's Othello has now decided to make his next movie again on the Shakespearean drama. This time he will base his movie on Julius Ceasar. The pivotal role in this Shakespearean drama will be of Brutus, the real hero of the tragic drama. So, the main question is who will play the character of Brutus. According to sources close to Bhardwaj, he is considering Aamir Khan and Ajay Devgan for this coveted role. After all, Brutus was Roman, so his character should be played by Roman looking actor. Incidentally, 'Omkara' is stated to have fared very well by collecting Rs 310 million. However, the reports indicate that a well-known director is trying to sabotage 'Omkara' by resorting to unethical practices. Abhay-Soha pair in 'Ahista Ahista' Two star children have come closer to each other through their reel, according to industry circles. They are actor Dharmendra's nephew Abhay Deol and actress Sharmila Tagore's daughter Soha Ali Khan. Both have just worked together in their 'Ahista Ahista'. During the shooting of the movie, they have become thick, courtesy 'Ahista Ahista' shooting. Now, the industry is keenly watching their future both on screen and off screen. However, the result in their reel life of 'Ahista Ahista' isn't too pleasing. This is rather unexpected of a love story. Alas! |
SANDWICH IS TOO STALE TO DIGEST By Satyajit - Eye TV India Bureau
Critic's I-view
Delayed release, ill-luck and bad-timing can best describe the sorry tale of this Govinda's latest release 'Sandwich'. In Bollywood, late releases have met with disastrous results and the latest example is Salman Khan-Shilpa Shetty starrer 'Shaadi Karke Phaas Gaya Yaar'. The concept, scripting and narration of 'Sandwich' are too stale in the present context. In short, it is collage of Govinda's mindless comical endeavors like 'Coolie No.1', 'Saajan Chale Sasural' and David Dhawan's successful hit 'Bol Radha Bol'. At present when there are plenty of multiplexes with experimental and thought provoking cinema ruling the charts, 'Sandwich' is old wine in old bottle with new label though. It caters to small segment of audiences who have adulated Govinda's slapstick comical adventures but time has changed. Now there is flashy, upbeat cinema with realistic and experimental formulation hitting theatres every week. Govinda's fading box-office charm; low media hype with non-existence of leading lady has decimated the prospects of good opening. Even producers find it difficult to find suitable theatres for this film.
It may be disappointing for the filmmaker that stardom of all the three leading actors - Govinda, Raveena Tandon and Mahima Chaudhry -- has faded out. In recent times, Govinda has string of flops. Besides, he has been accused of alleged underworld links and disastrous failure of his home production 'Sukh'. Raveena Tandon's film career faded into matrimony and she has already bid farewell to commercial mainstream. Finally, Mahima Chaudhry who started off with a bang is reduced to second leads and sleazy roles in B or C grade films. So 'Sandwich' scores minimum with ordinary scripting and forgettable music. No wonder it has bunch of actors who have been once the winning preposition of the film industry but equation has reversed now.
Director Anees Bazmee who struck magnanimous box office success with 'No Entry' is the only prize worthy commodity in the credits of the film. Ironically, the producer and the exhibitor have tried to mention his name in the promotion list. It has no similarity with 'No Entry' and works on David Dhawan's slapstick comical formula. It took three years for the film to release but finally made it this week. It was earlier titled 'Hum Do Hamara Ek' but it was changed to 'Sandwich' to catch audience's attention. Even the changed title will be of little help.
Mistaken identities, confused relationships, forged personalities - all assemble into one comical package. This is the sum up of 'Sandwich'. There was a time when every heroine wanted to get paired with Govinda to rejuvenate her career and this might be the phase when the concept of 'Sandwich' was conceived. But it took many years to reach theatres. Moreover, 'Sandwich' provides minimal moments of laughter and joy and its comical quotient is below par as compared to Govinda's earlier hits. Govinda tries to reinvent his style by mimicking Dharmendra's style of dialogue delivery but irritates. How ca an established actor like Govinda behave like a mimicry artiste? He rehashes all his previous performances with predicted plots with soulless music. Even the heroines are weary and their outdated looks decimate its style and glamour quotient. If the first half of the film is inspired from films like 'Golmal' (old), 'Coolie No.1' and 'Saajan Chale Saural', then the second half gets the skin and soul from 'Bol Radha Bol'.
'Sandwich' starts off with a small village boy's dreams finding way in a big city. Sheer Singh alias Shepherd (Govinda) has his family roots in Punjab as he enacts the role of a 'Punjabi' settled in a small village of Punjab. He has fortune in Mumbai with leading car showroom as a salesman but nurses the ambition of a Bollywood script writer. He is hired by filmmaker Chelaramani (Satish Shah). The ambitious yet honest Shekhar has the backdrop of peaceful life with his mother and a handicapped sister. Nisha (Raveena Tandon), rich spoilt brat is "head over heels" in love with Shekhar, much against the consent of her father. In the meanwhile Shekhar gets an urgent call from her mother to return to village, and finds that his handicapped sister is getting married to the village zamindar's son. The marriage is proposed on the condition that Shekhar will marry Zamindar's bubbly and chirpy daughter Sweety (Mahima Chaudhry). Shekhar sacrifices his love and marries Sweety. In Mumbai the scenario is completely different as Nisha is forced to marry Vicky (Raj Zutshi), the son of her father's friend. Nisha revolts violently and threatens to commit suicide on her wedding day. Shekhar arrives at the scene to settle the matter but succumbs to Nisha's threatening call. Finally, Shekhar is forced to marry Nisha and this disturbs Vicky. Vicky tries to avenge this by killing Nisha's father. Shekhar becomes the managing director of Nisha's firm but his life is turned upside down. Shekhar's life is torn between his two wives and then his two lovely sons. After seven years, Sweety along with Shekhar's mother (Reema Lagoo) plans to settle in Mumbai. This makes Shekhar's life even more miserable. But, he manages a separate accommodation for Sweety. Shekhar's two naughty sons -- Tuk Tuk and Tony (Master Sagar and Master Siddarth) -- get suspicious about him. The two whiz kids discover that they have one father but fail to prove it to their mothers - Nisha and Sweety. Destiny takes a wild turn when Shekhar's suspicious behavior catches the attention of his two wives. Shekhar is shocked to find that there is another Shekhar (Govinda in double role) in his house. Shekhar reveals about his misdeeds but the fallacious Shekhar gets hold of the situation. Inspector Pange (Mohnish Behl) investigates the matter and finds that this forgery is planned by the son of the best friend of Nisha's father. Baldev Chopra (Kiran Kumar)'s son Vicky (Raj Zutshi), and his secretary Rao (Anant Mahadevan) do this to rob Nisha's wealth. In the climax, the dust is settled and culprit meets his destiny.
The concept of scripting is stale and moves at a lethargic pace. The film's comical quotient is not healthy enough to lift film's prospects at the box-office. There are mild comical acts that may give light moments but otherwise it's a predictable melodrama. Govinda looks old, weary and contemporary and shows signs of aging. He entertains with his witty one-liners but even they are old-fashioned and contemporary in today's world. Raveena Tandon gives some entertaining moments in the first half but has brief appearance in the second half. Her styling and costume designing is old-fashioned and fails to metaphor with today's changing glamour. Mahima Chaudhry dons her 'Pardes' attire of chirpy village belle and impresses with comical and spunky one-liners. Despite this she has limited footage and impresses in the number "Sayonee" (dream sequence with Govinda). The declining career graph and her unnoticed appearances will hardly add anything to her future films. Satish Shah's comical presence adds humor to the situation. The film's music is avoidable; fights are ordinary with routine choreography. 'Sandwich' will have minimal takers at the multiplexes. Even in the interiors it will have restricted audiences. In nutshell, 'Sandwich' is too stale to digest.
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BOLLYWOOD BANTER
By Naresh Kumar - Eye TV India Bureau Kim quarrels with Shamita Bollywood's two leading actresses --- Kim Sharma and Shamita Shetty -- are on loggerheads these days. Their problem is too small though. Kim Sharma who considers cricketer Yuvraj as her boyfriend wants to keep the young cricketer under her thumb. She won't like any other girl coming close to Yuvraj as she is afraid that Yuvraj may fall for the girl. A recent incident is a proof: Yuvraj was seen enjoying along with his friends at a night club when Shamita Shetty entered the club and wished Yuvraj. Kim Sharma couldn't bear it and asked Shamita to leave the club. Though Shamita obliged Kim by walking away, she challenged Kim that she could any time win over Yuvraj. This enraged Kim Sharma to remark that she doesn't care for her and wonders if she dare snatch Yuvraj from her. In any case, Shamita has a taste for another person's prey, she alleged! Sooraj missing 'Vivah' heroine? Sooraj Barjatya known for his desi cultural and family entertainers has suddenly turned romantic, according to news reaching New Delhi from Mumbai. He seems to have fallen for his 'Vivah's heroine Amrita Rao. Amrita has played an extraordinary character of Poonam in 'Vivah' that seems to be close to the heart of producer Sooraj. Since the shooting for the movie has ended, Sooraj has been missing his heroine of 'Vivah', as never before. What has happened among the teammates of 'Vivah' only the concerned players know? We can only wish them success in reel as well as real life. Bips quits Ramu's 'Devi' Sexy Bipasha Basu who had signed to act in director Ram Gopal Verma's 'Darling' has now quit the movie, it is reliably learnt. Though she doesn't admit but the fact is that Ramu has changed the title of the movie to 'Devi'. Bipasha doesn't want to take the risk of acting in 'Devi'. Apart from Bipasha, several other actors too have of late distanced themselves from Ramu as the latter's movies are not faring as well as in the past. His movies are rather going flop at box office. Bips has however, pretended that she has withdrawn because of the dates' problem. Third parts of movies too The success story of sequel of 'Koi Mil Gaya' 'Krrish' has encouraged its producer Rakesh Roshan to make its third part too. Similarly, other producers and the directors are not far behind in this regard. They are also jumping in the fray to make hay while the Sun shines. Actor-turned-producer Anil Kapoor has decided to make sequel of his 'Mr India' with Rishi Kapoor's son Ranbir and Sridevi. Goldie Behl says he will revive his 'Drona' with Priyanka Chopra of the 'Krrish' fame to play the leading lady's role. Rahul Bose's next directorial Actor-turned-director Rahul Bose will venture into film direction again. However, he will do it only next year. At present, he is occupied in 'Pyar Ke Side Effects' with the sexy Haryanvi girl Mallika Sherawat. The movie may be released soon. Then, the actor plans to take a long break before taking up another project. And, this time it may be based on his own script. He has luckily found a producer too for it. Yes, the movie will be in English, but this dark love story would take the audience by storm, he feels sure. |
WHY LARA QUIT 'AAP KI KHATIR'
By Kaydee - Eye TV India Bureau
In the News
Dharmesh Darshan's forthcoming movie 'Aap Ki Khatir' is in the news these days. However, the fans of Lara Dutta will be disappointed to know that their favorite girl is missing in it though Dharmesh had decided to repeat his 'Andaaz's both girls -Lara Dutta and Priyanka Chopr -- in this movie too. Both were signed to play sisters in the movie. But, the sudden decision of Lara Dutta to quit the movie surprised her fans and shocked Dharmesh. This was Dharmesh' luck that Amisha Patel agreed to play Lara's role even at the last moment. Industry circles are puzzled as to why Lara opted out of the movie though she had agreed earlier.
The usual argument is the dates' problem. However, Lara doesn't say that. Circles close to Lara indicate that she has lost the confidence of working together with Priyanka Chopra. This is to recall that both of them had begun their filmi careers together. But Priyanka has moved faster than Lara and has reached at the top while Lara has been left much behind. This complex has discouraged Lara to work with Priyanka as she is afraid that the industry will compare her performance with Priyanka.
AAP KI KHATIR BELIES HOPES
By Pankaj Shukla - Eye TV India Bureau
Critic's I-view
Bollywood is holding its breath; no one from a theatre owner to a film make knows what is going to happen next. There is a complete silence. The lull has prevailed after the debacle of Karan Johar's much hyped film 'Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna'. The film is said to have got record openings across the world, but the downfall that this film saw post-day 4, has also set sort of record in the film history. And, the storm that was created by the plucked publicity in media is yet to settle down for it.
In between this fiasco comes a film that is directed by one who is known for his melodrama right from 'Raja Hindustani' to his last 'Bewafaa'. The name is Darshan (Dharmesh Darshan). 'Aap Ki Khatir', the new film from the Darshan bastion, is more like a departure from his own set path of formulae. There is no love at first sight kind of thing, neither does it have rich girl-poor boy sort of thin. This doesn't have either the music of their favorite duo Nadeem-Shravan. Then what is the USP of 'Aap Ki Khatir'.
'Aap Ki Khatir' tries to sail through the rough weather of box office just by its charm and a thin plot that one has seen numerous times on silver screen. It has Priyanka Chopra, Amisha Patel, Akshaye Khanna, Dino Morea and Suniel Shetty but the fact is that director Dharmesh Darshan fails to bring right kind of chemistry among them.
This time, Dharmesh Darshan tries his hand on comedy. The genre is fashion of the season and in his first take on situational comedy Dhramesh Darshan falters mainly because of thin script. Priyanka Chopra plays Anu, a girl who is heart broken and to avoid banging on her old buddy she shifts her base from London to Mumbai. She seems to be happy but until the news of her step sister's marriage arrives.
Amisha Patel plays Anu's step sister named Shirani. The latter is getting settled with a New York based businessman named Kunal (played by Suniel Shetty). To complete the circle, the story has it that Danny (Dino Morea) who broke Anu's heart is a close friend of Kunal and Anu cannot see him face to face. In addition, Shirani was involved with Danny after his break up with Kunal. So, how can Anu face Danny? She will not.
She hires a male escort Aman (Akshaye Khanna) whom she will present as her buoy. Anu and Aman try to gel with each other but it has its difficulties and with these Dharmesh Darshan tries to bring in the comic feel for the film. At the start, it works too. But as soon as Aman finds that he is really in love with Anu and the moment Anu falls again for Danny the whole plot goes haywire.
Making a comedy film may seem to be an easy task. But, this is the most difficult genre to handle in cinema. Emotions, actions and drama are okay, but when one talks comedy it has to be serious. The timing, the wit, the humor and most importantly, the chemistry between the lead actors is mind-blowing. The more you want to make people laugh, the more you have to be serious in your work.
And Dharmesh Darshan doesn't show this seriousness in the storyline. He chooses a storyline that hardly has any substance. Even the screenplay lacks interesting sub plots. No doubt, there are very many good sequences but they are between like minded people as in the case of lead heroines and lead character artistes. But, Akshaye could not click with Priyanka as he has clicked with Rimi Sen in so many films of Priyadarshan.
Moreover, the film also lacks good music. Himesh Reshammiya's magic has come full circle; he has started sounding repetitive. The songs picturized on Priyanka look so boring that the people try to fast forward the film as soon as it starts. Then, Priyanka also looks exhausted in most of the sequences. Amisha Patel has already lost her ground in films and it will be better if she tries her hand elsewhere because she looks lost in front of the camera.
Akshaye Khanna tries his best to save the film and succeeds too at some places. But, Dharmesh Darshan fails to get good support from his other cast and more importantly, his crew has let him badly down. On the whole, 'Aap Ki Khati' has weak chances to survive at the box office and the viewers might now wait for the biggies lined up for next month.
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BOLLYWOOD BANTER
By Naresh Kumar - Eye TV India Bureau Natural smile All the heroines are known for their special traits. Their fans anxiously await to get a glimpse of their favorite star's specialty. While some of them are popular for their acting, others are known for their personality or voice. However, two Bollywood actresses share a common trait. Preity Zinta and Rani Mukherjee are known for their smiles which their fans describe as natural. Akshaye-Priyanka will prove hit pair Akshaye Khanna has won over the leading lady of Bollywood. Yes, she is none other than pretty Priyanka Chopra. Both admire each other and are thrilled to work together. Both will be seen this time in Ratan Jain's 'Aap Ki Khatir'. Akshaye is indeed very excited with this movie starring opposite Priyanka. In fact, the success of '36 China Town' has encouraged Akshaye. Besides, Akshaye has found a great singer besides a music director in Himesh Reshammiya who has provided excellent music to their 'Aap Ki Khatir'. Priyanka is also anxiously awaiting the release of their movie starring opposite Akshaye. She has found Akshaye as a wonderful actor. All those who have witnessed the screening of 'Aapki Ki Khatir' are all praise for both and bet that Akshaye-Priyanka will prove the hit reel pair of Bollywood. Will Celina settle in Africa? Celina Jaitly will most likely settle in Africa. This is evident from her interest in an African youth whom she met with in South Africa during the shooting of her 'Shaka Laaka Boom -Boom'. According to reports reaching India, Celina Jaitley is very serious about the African boyfriend. Don't be surprised if she marries with the African boy and settle down in South Africa for good. Wouldn't it be a loss of Bollywood and a gain for South Africa? Big B's another item number Big B will again entice his fans in India and abroad by repeating an item number in his forthcoming movie titled 'Jhoom Barabar Jhoom'. In the recent past, he created a history in the entertainment world by his item number 'Kajra Re…' in his 'Bunty Aur Babli'. The millennium actor danced along with the world beauty Aishwarya Rai and his young son Abhishek in this movie. This time again the Shankar Ehsan Loy trio will provide a stunning music to Big B in director Shaad Ali's movie. Yes, Big B will dance along with two pretty damsels - Preity Zinta and Lara Dutta -- besides Bobby Deol. Gulzar has provided the lyrics again. Hopefully, Big B will charm his audience once again. Sippy makes Bhojpuri movie G.P. Sippy known for their legendary 'Sholay' has entered into Bhojpuri movies too. We witnessed the muhurt of their Bhojpuri flick at the Basra studio. The scene was fantastic. The Bhojpuri's top hero Ravi Kishen was noticed celebrating his Suhaag Raat (first night after marriage) with none other than the romantic heroine Nagma. G.P.Sippy has named his movie as 'Mai Ta Bas Mai Baari'. Besides the Ravi Kishan -Nagma pair, there is another equally stunning pair of Kunal Singh and Ravi Agnihotri. We came across a Bhojpuri song too that reads " Kaanchi Kaanchi Kaliya Naa Tod Ho Raja, Baali Re Umariya Raswa Ba Taaza". Divya -Sandeep betrothal breaks Actress Divya Dutta of the 'Veer Zaara', and 'Train To Pakistan' fame was betrothed only last May with Lieutenant Commander Sandeep Shergill. However, the reports have started pouring in that both have recently broken their relationship following their acute differences. Divya says that this is their personal matter, so she doesn't want to speak more about it. Divya has since been concentrating on her filmi career. This is to recall that a few months back there were rumors that both have been married and are living together. |
MUSIC REVIEW OF WOH LAMHE
By Satyajit - Eye TV India Bureau
Juke Box
'Murder', 'Zeher', 'Kalyug' and 'Gangster' - all films remind viewers of unconventional bold subjects with brilliant performers coagulated with impressive rollicking music from the stables of illustrious Bhatt camp. Now, 'Woh Lamhe' is all set for another cinematic success with the successful team of actors and music directors from this year's hit 'Gangster'. The impressive introductory lines of Atif Aslam's super hit soundtrack "Woh Lamhe, Woh Baatein …" ('Zeher') seem to be an inspiration for the title of this film. Like 'Arth' and 'Zakhm', this film is promoted as an autobiographical journey of Mahesh Bhatt surfacing dark phases of his life with superior budding acting talents. The competent pair of 'Gangster' (Shiny Ahuja and Kangana Ranaut) plays the lead characters in the film. Shiny Ahuja stole the limelight for being "Best Debutante" last year and Kangana Ranaut showing signs of maturity with her brilliant debut performance in 'Gangster' are all set for another hit. Kangana will be playing beautiful actress-turned-eccentric beloved of hapless yet lovable Shiny Ahuja. 'Woh Lamhe' is speculated to be based on the romantically estranged relationship between director Mahesh Bhatt and actress Parveen Babi. Musical techno-whiz kid Pritam Chakraborty punches trendy and pulsating rhythms and tunes for this emotional tearjerker along with guest composer Roop Kumar Rathod. Pritam's 'Gangster' still rocks the charts with mind-blowing soundtracks like "Ya Ali", "Lamha Lamha" and "Tu Hi Meri Shab Hain". In this album too the composer experiments with new singing talents (Pak pop singer Jawed Ahmed, Glen John) and blend of contemporary and rising musical talents. Pritam's latest film albums like 'Bas Ek Pal' and 'Naksha' are well received by the urban audiences and 'Woh Lamhe' comes with similar upbeat flavor. 'Woh Lamhe' promises musical entertainment with eight original soundtracks that can be heard on T-Series.
KYA MUJHE PYAR HAI :The melodic chorus, rhythmic guitar blended with mellifluously modulated voice of KK creates an ambience of passionate love in "Kya Mujhe Pyar Hai". Pritam's synchronized version of "Flamenco" (Spanish music) forms the backdrop and like "Tu Hi Meri Shab Hai' ('Gangster') it emotes rock star style of passion. Neelesh Mishra's lyrics are simple, meaningful and impressive, giving the soundtrack a feel of universal acceptance. The Bhatt camp flair of imbibing rhythmic and harmonious structure for the solo romantic shines bright as sunshine. "Kya Mujhe Pyar Hai" will be suitable for delightful romantic outing and will have big takers among pop genre. KK brings springs of hope and desires with fine concoction of recurring guitar strums and rhythmic chorus in the background. The Pritam team work with KK in 'Gangster' and 'Bas Ek Pal' has been a huge success and this number carries this golden streak of success. It has some inspirational shades from Indonesian pop group "Peterpan" musical number "Tak Bisakah" but still it rocks. It's brilliant and superlative start to the album with frolicking bangs!
The yuppie flavor of dance floors rules the show with DJ A Myth and DJ Kiran coming up with "Kya Mujhe Pyar Hai (remix)". A foot-thumping groovy number that has the strong feel of club mix flavors with fine beat matching! The rhythmic chorus and titillating guitar strings have been mixed fittingly with disco beat fillers to give it a hip-shaking tempo.
CHAL CHALE: The dreamy extravaganza of heaven like place with eternal love shows different colors of romanticism in beautiful soundtrack "Chal Chale". A breezy whiff of aromatic romance flows through as poetically refined words get the vocal passage of James' melodious voice. It's a treat after "Bheegi Bheegi" ('Gangster') as James pumps all fire "n" passion in delivering this rosy and beaming number. The Bhatt camp's contemporary lyricist Saayed Quadri's scintillating lyrics make it a listening treat with flights of idealism and romanticism mushroomed in well phrased verses. James' hard rock style mixed with modulating vocals sets an aura of serenity that transforms listeners into oceans of fantasy. After Atif Aslam, James has shown signs of consistency with consecutive impressive number as he lives up to expectations with flying colors. Undoubtedly, 'Chal Chale' comes as the finest soundtrack of the album encapsulating fine musical teamwork delivering an outstanding number. GOOD MUSICAL SHOW!
TU JO NAHIN: The Bhatt camp's contemporary musical style of 90's with extra tinge of keyboard generated music makes the mood for the sentimental track "Tu Jo Nahin". Like all previous album this one too promises new singing talent and it comes in the voice of new talent Glen John. It has the typical and traditional "ghazal gayaki" ("Ghazal singing") musical set up with Glen John's impressive voice leading from the front. Glen's smoothening voice impresses but lacks freshness as it reminds of "Ghazal" singer Talat Aziz style of singing. "Tu Jo Nahin" is a decent number but with a weary outlook of the Bhatt camp's 90's music where Nadeem-Shravan and Anu Malik ruled their shows. Sayed Quadri's lyrics carry the Bhatt camp's traditional lyrical style and deliver it with modesty. It sounds that Pritam has either recreated or re-arranged this number rather than composing it with his style. Unlike previous soundtracks this number lacks Bollywood's trendy musical flair but still it deserves appreciation for being fine situational number.
"Tu Jo Nahin-II" is the slow version of the number with sluggish pace and low pitched instrumentation. It's a treat for "ghazal" lovers and will bring memories of super hit soundtracks from the Bhatt camp's memorable films like 'Phir Teri Kahani Yaad Aayi', 'Sadak', 'Daddy', 'Zakhm' etc.
SO JAON MEIN: The sentimentally poetic lines "So Jaon Mein, Tum Agar Mere Khwabon Mein Aao…." mesmerizes the everlasting and eternal love. It comes in sweet "n" syrupy melody "So Jaon Mein (male version)" with slow and soft pitched musical arrangements. Kunal Ganjawala's echoing husky voice is romantically "nerve-racking" with inhibited sentiments of lovers oozing out in fine lyrics. The soft guitar strums with optimum orchestration in synchronized fashion sets the tempo for this sentimental soundtrack. Despite the fact it delivers the needful but still lacks the tenacity of appealing and impressing listeners like some previous tracks. Kunal delivers another "thumbs-up" performance and will positively add another feather in his cap after the successful hit track "Tum Jo Mile" ('Ahista Ahista').
Shreya Ghoshal recreates "Aa Paas Aa" ('Ankahee') styled "alaap" with similar tempo and rhythm as a prelude in the number "So Jaon Mein (female version)". It comes with sluggish and ineffective vocal work as compared to the male version. It has the similar feel but the penetration of heart-touching sentimental feel is missing. Shakeel Azmi's lyrics work wonder in both the version as the beloved expects assurance of real love from his lover in pensive mood. It's a situational version that may find better acceptance in film than in audio album.
BIN TERE: Ali Azmat ('Paap'), Amir Jamal ('Murder'), Atif Aslam('Zeher' and 'Kalyug') and now Jawed Ahmed. "Bin Tere" carries the tradition of Pakistani pop sensation lending his voice in the Bhatt camp's film album. Jawed Ahmed delivers the number with his contemporary slow "n" softening modulating pitched voice. The lovable number makes more appealing treat as Sayed Quadri's poetically refined lines "Bin Tere Kya Hai Jeena, Meri Dil Ki Raani Ho Tum…" reminds of Pankaj Udhas's "Chandi Jaisa Rang". It's another number after "So Jaon Mein" and "Tu Jo Nahin" where "ghazal gayaki" has been moulded in emoting sentimental flow of lover. Jawed's voice suits the occasion but unlike his previous compatriots like Atif, Shafaqat Ali Khan ("Mitwa"), he fails to create an aura of musical ecstasy. Pritam's titillating music in softer mood is the highlight of the soundtrack that keeps the spirits of the number high.
After the magnanimous success of 'Gangster', Pritam delivers another praise-worthy film album for the Bhatt camp. The composer is showing vivid colors of life with different singing talents in numbers like "Chal Chale", "Kya Muhje Pyar Hai" and "Bin Tere". 'Woh Lamhe' will positively entertain urban audiences but it is difficult to expect the album to match the success of 'Gangster'.
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WEIGHT MATTERS A LOT IN BOLLYWOOD
By Kaydee - Eye TV India Bureau
In the News Losing or gaining weight for actors isn't easy. However, they have to resort to this because of the script's demand. This has been the case in the recent past with several characters. Ashutosh Rana says that he had to gain weight to look Sabnam Mausi in real life. The actor had gained as much as twenty kilograms and turned out of shape. Therefore, he took a break for about a year and a half from movies until he lost that weight though on his own. This wasn't an easy task though. However, it was vital to survive in the industry, it being a occupational hazard. Apart from Rana, Aishwarya too gained a few kilos for Mani Ratnam's 'Guru'. She had to add weight because of her height and for meeting the needs of 'Guru'. On the other hand, R. Madhavan was asked to lose a few pounds to look alright for the same movie. But, Rai shed few pounds in ten days for 'Dhoom 2'. The actors resort to losing or gaining weight even at the risk of their health; losing or gaining weight in a short span can prove dangerous for one's health. |
MUSIC REVIEW OF DIL DIYA HAI
By Satyajit - Eye TV India Bureau
Juke Box Himesh Reshammiya, Aaditya Dutt and Emraan Hashmi bring memories to one of the biggest musical extravaganza 'Aashiq Banaya Aapne'. The triumvirate of actor, director and composer teams up once again and this time it's yet another love triangle named 'Dil Diya Hai'. Besides, 'Dil Diya Hai' has the successful pair of 'Murder' (Emraan Hashmi and Ashmit Patel) in the lead roles. Gorgeous and vivacious model-turned-actress Geeta Basra will be making her silver screen debut with this film. The new glam doll has been creating waves in TV channels and glossies with her bold and trendy attire. If the film harvests gold at the box-office then she will be one of biggest contenders for the "Best Debutante" category. Director Aaditya Dutt, grandson of lyricist Anand Bakshi, started off disastrously with the dismal flop of 'Aashiq Banya Aapne', but made history by introducing Himesh Reshammiya as the commercial mainstream playback singer. The rest is history as Himesh created indomitable records with successive super hit tracks in films like 'Aksar', 'Tom Dick and Harry', '36 Chinatown', 'Ahista Ahista' and 'Phir Hera Pheri'. Himesh's on-screen chemistry with Emraan Hashmi has been splendid and it is expected that the history will be repeated with this musical album. Ashmit Patel will be craving for a genuine hit as all of his last releases like 'Nazar', 'Fight Club' and 'Banaras' have sunk without trace. Himesh Reshammiya comes with another promising album that has loads of Sufi music coagulated with funky music. 'Dil Diya Hai' has twelve original soundtracks that can be heard on T-Series. DIL DIYA HAI: Soft "n" subtle sarangi with high-pitched Sufi musical punch by Himesh Reshammiya sets the tempo for the title track "Dil Diya Hai". Lyricist Sameer's traditional style of delivering romantic emotions finds easy words that gel well with the funky beats and rhythmic music. Himani, "Sa Re Ga Ma" discovery, sings in tandem in low pitch giving an impression of sentimental track. As compared to Reshammiya's earlier composed title tracks it scores the lowest with lethargic and repetitive tunes. Himesh delivers this number with traditional musical set up of "Sarangi", "sitar", violin and techno-generated music but this time the desired zing is missing. Himani's voice fails to impress in this average musical display but has the potential to improvise in coming days. It will be interesting to view this number as all other title tracks delivered by Himesh Reshammiya have been rollicking hit on the screen. DJ Akbar Sami's techno-skills try to refurbish the prospects of the title track in the number "Dil Diya Hai (remix)". It sounds more racy and trendy as compared to the original soundtrack and will be used for the promotion of the film. AFSANA BANA KE: The harmonious Sarangi with effective drumming orchestration lays the foundation of traditional Himesh Reshammiya style Sufi soundtrack "Afsana Bana Ke". The song has the regular feel of Reshammiya's recently rendered numbers but it still has sentimental gripping. Sameer's regular lyrics are simply not sufficient to lift the spirits as the number sounds mandatory. Tulsi Kumar softens her vocals in singing out feminine sentiments and collages well with Himesh Reshammiya's voice. The recurring rhythm of "Sarangi and violin" makes it slightly effective and different. "Afsana Bana Ke" may not be a surprise package but delivers the needful for the sentimental track. The beat-juggling of the recurring "Sarangi and violin" "jugalbandi" clubs with high-pitched disco beats in delivering effective soundtrack -- "Afsana Bana Ke (remix)". DJ Akbar Sami's impressive wizardry at the disco station adds westernized bangs and thumps effectively. It's second in succession where the remix works better than the original number. YAADAN TERIYAN: Himesh Reshammiya scores maximum as a vocalist with "Yaadan Teriyan", a lovable number about mesmerizing beloved. Its fine concoction of fusion pop music that coagulates effectively with Reshammiya's modulating nasal twang display. The impressive display of Indian classical music forms the musical backdrop of the track with sprinkled flavors of medium pitched keyboard beats. "Yaadan Teriyan" has effective tabla rhythm loop and forms perfect timing with Punjabi folk based lyrics. It may not be innovative as Himesh has already delivered similar impressive tracks in the similar moulds like "Ahista Ahista" and "Vaada Tainu Yaad" (pop album) but still it shines the best. It will have more takers from the class audiences than the party animals. The beautiful sentimental number "Yaadan Teriyan" is unnecessarily remixed to make the album saleable to pop genre. "Yaadan Teriyan (remix)" is fast paced number with conventional club mix feel and punch. This time its sweetly timed melody in the original soundtrack that scores more than the remix work. MILE HO TUM: A decent romantic number that stresses on voice modulation and pitch modulations comes straight from the voices of Reshammiaya and Tulsi Kumar in the soundtrack - "Mile Ho Tum". Reshammiya bends his musical style and tries to coagulate "ghazal gayaki" (Ghazal singing) in his regular Sufi style music. It starts off with slow and subtle note followed by conventional flow of musical instrumentals that set up the tempo for the soundtrack. The recurring vocal rendition of "Na Na Na…" is added to give it a sensual touch but its excessive use irritates listeners. It would be advised that Reshammiya should maintain medium pitch to give it a resonating feel rather than singing it in noisy loud pitch. "Mile Ho Tum" is an above average situational number that adds to the credits of the album with no surprises. DJ Akbar Sami fires all cylinders and makes passion flow on the dance floors in the soundtrack - "Mile Ho Tum (remix)". It sounds pulsating, hip-shaking and foot-thumping all the way and rejuvenates the original soundtrack brilliantly. It scores the maximum in the remix works and promises entertainment in parties and pubs. JABSE AANKH LADI: The hot selling "Kajra Re" sensation Alisha Chinai makes a surprise entry in Reshammiya's clan as she sizzles out in seductive number - "Jabse Aankh Ladi". The traditional Arabian musical ambience with regular mix of classical and western music sets the backdrop of the number. Alisha Chinai's loosely paced vocal disappoints as Jayesh Gandhi tries to flare up proceedings with the loud pitched brief vocal rendition. This disappoints to the core and comes as the weakest musical offering of the album. Even the loud and sluggish paced Reshammiya music falls flat in offering musical novelty and entertainment. "Jabse Aankh Ladi (remix)" is a better offering than the original soundtrack but fails to give refreshing or energizing impact. It's simply average musical work by DJ Akbar Sami that accommodates space in the album. CHALO DILDAR CHALO: Himesh Reshammiya's improvising tactics shine brightest as he tosses the fortune of the album by trying out new singing Hemachandra and Vinit in the lovable soundtrack - "Chalo Dildar Chalo". It gives out a feel of Indi-pop music with the vocalist trying hard to improvise at all stages of number. In recent times Bollywood has imported musical talents from Pakistan. It's a decent effort where the young talents have clubbed together for good show. Himani joins the duo and gives it a party feel with her soft "n" seductive vocals. A "happy-go-lucky" song about friendship, togetherness will have the biggest takers from the pop genre and disco freaks. The conventional club mix feel attracts listeners as youthful voices collage brightly with disco beats fillers in the number - "Chalo Dildar Chalo (remix)". A campus loving number that has loud violin strings added with heavy drumming makes it special for the occasion. 'Dil Diya Hai' comes as Himesh Reshammiya's weakest musical offering of the season after the record breaking success of half dozen film albums. It may be disappointing that the composer-turned-singer has shown signs of innovation and has relied on his traditional style completely. In terms of musical quality it fails to live up to his standards and will have below average sales in coming days. |
MUSIC REVIEW OF PYAR KE SIDE EFFECTS
By Satyajit - Eye TV India Bureau
Juke Box
Bollywood's sultry sex siren Mallika Sherawat makes splashing screen presence with all her "dare-bare" acts in 'Pyar Ke Side Effects'. The controversial babe known for her glamorous flair has teamed up with Rahul Bose in this loud and frothy comedy. Rahul has been the leading film figure in parallel cinema ('Chameli', 'Bombay Boys', 'White Noise' etc) but has switched channels to commercial mainstream celluloid. His first commercial offering 'Silsilay' sank disastrously but he is all out to prove his worth in 'Pyar Ke Side Effects'. This Pritish Nandy Communications (PNC) offering is second venture after the average success of 'Chameli' where Rahul Bose has been the leading man. Recently, PNC suffered failure with the disastrous flop of 'Ankahee, but it hopes for success this time. Mallika Sherawat who made headlines with her sensuous erotic thriller also shared misfortune in comical flicks like 'Kis Kis Ki Kismat' and 'Bachke Rehna Re Baba'. However, this will be acid test for both Rahul and Mallika as they badly need hit to silence their critics. Besides, there is a line-up of talented actors like Suchitra Pillai, Ranvir Shorey, Sophie Chaudhry and Jas Arora who are there to tickle audience's funny bones. 'Pyar Ke Side Effects' is a quizzical laugh riot where hot "n" happening DJ Sid (Rahul Bose) shares love bond with his sensuous beloved Trisha (Mallika Sherawat). The film is a roller coaster of funny events where they encounter bumpy rides of comical misadventures. Like all previous PNC offerings, this film promises loads of frolicking soundtracks that are sure to entice urban audiences. Hot shot musical composer Pritam Chakraborty fires all cylinders and pumps up youthful passions with hip-hop and Bhangra numbers. Upcoming lyricist Mayur Puri tries his best with all funky one-liners to make soundtracks hot "n" spicy. Debutante director Saket Chaudhry directs this comical love story that entertains with nine original soundtracks. The soundtracks of 'Pyar Ke Side Effects' can be thoroughly enjoyed on T-Series cassettes and CDs.
PYAR KARKE: UK Bhangra style musical band makes fiery and sparkling entry with spontaneous hip-hop lyrics in the hip-shaking soundtrack "Pyar Karke". Labh Janjua, who masterminded the musical success of "Mundiye to Bachke" ('Boom'), flares up passion with his folk based voice that coagulates well with trendy music. Mayur Puri's lyrics may not be strikingly appealing but add "masti" to the occasion. It's a loud and boisterous Bhangra hip-hop number that will have huge fan following in NRI communities and will be hot favorite among DJ's. Bob and Suzy's modulating and shimmering rap rendition gives it a trendy feel with Labh Janjua taking the credit for delivering hit track.
Sensuous feminine chorus along with fast paced disco beat fillers amplify the passion on the dance floors in the soundtrack - "Pyar Karke (remix)". The rhythmic pulse is mixed with female hip-hop chorus and loud drum beats and westernized music.
DIL TOD KE NA JAA: Sufi music comes out in the mould of pop-qawali where upcoming singing talent Rakesh Pandit shares his painful journey of love in the soundtrack "Dil Tod Ke Na Jaa". The loud and sonorous vocals remind of the likes of Atalluah Khan and Altaf Raja's style of singing. It has some shades of Ataullah Khan's "Dil Tod ke Hanste Ho" with loads of funky disco cultured music and additional sensuous feminine chorus whimpers. Mayur Puri is meaningfully poetic and emotes out protagonist heart felt sentiments.
The loud rendition of "Please don't go" and "Na Ja" with bombastic disco beats add passions to the dance floors in the soundtrack "Dil Tod Ke Na Jaa (remix)". Mika, the controversial pop singer, holds the mike and chisels out yet another snazzy soundtrack. The remix version sounds catchier in terms of musical presentation but Mika's voice is no big match for Rakesh Pandit's Sufi flair. DJ A Myth and DJ Kiran's mixes match with the pulsating high-tech disco beats and present an entertaining track.
JAANE KYA: Immensely talented Zubin Garg oils his vocal chords and delivers classical "n" western romantic ballad soundtrack "Jaane Kya". Pritam's musical brilliance takes new flight as he tries to coagulate Uttar Pradesh style lingo, Indian classical music with truckloads of westernized musical display. The fine usage of Sarangi, tabla and keyboard generated music with vocal brilliance makes it special for listeners. The silken "n" shimmering ambience enlightened with subtle paced feminine voice forms preludes to this impressive number. Mayur Puri's lyrical intellect scores the maximum as he amalgamates "Khadi Boli" (UP style lingo) with sentimental English lyrics to give it a perfect fusion musical work. After the colossal success of "Ya Ali", Zubin Garg comes up with another hit. If this soundtrack is aesthetically choreographed and promoted, then it may prove inspirational lift for impressive audio sales.
IS THIS LOVE :The romantically intimidating electric guitar sets the tempo for delightful evening as Kunal Ganjawala softens his vocal chords in "Is this love". Once again Pritam has come up with his favorite "Flamenco" (Spanish music) style melody for the mushy "n" tender love track. Sunidhi Chauhan's voice makes things more colorful as the soundtrack culminates into lovable soundtrack. Mayur Puri's lyrical works create an aura of delightful romanticism where lovers share vibes through passionately crooned conversation. The permanent strumming of soft "n" tender guitar strings with harmonious vocals make it special for "Valentine Day's" musical offering.
BAD BOY: Sensuous! Naughty!! Mischievously enticing!!! The physical oomph of Mallika and voluptuous "baby doll" vocal charisma of Alisha Chinai deliver the most rollicking number "Bad Boy". The soundtrack is initiated with naughty talk through hot conversation between Earl, Sophie and Ishq Vector followed by Alisha Chinai taking over the soundtrack. "Bad Boy" is contemporary disco "n" pub freaking number that has spicy hip-hop lyrics with loads of sensuous feminine vocals and whimpers. It is tailor made for cosmopolitan city listeners and will add to the film's glamour and style quotient. Pop diva Alisha Chinai's fixation with "baby doll" dominates throughout the song with sinusoidal keyboard musical loops. Despite the fact that it entertains to the hilt, Alisha's performance is no match for her all-time hit number "Kajra Re".
DJ Sunil Spinz tries his best with beat-matching of the original soundtrack "Bad Boy" and fast paced hip-hop lyrics in the trendy soundtrack "Bad Boy (remix)". The transition from fast and high pitched orchestration to slow "n" racy attire and finally to snazzy club mix stuff shows vivid colors of improvised DJ techniques. It sounds more like innovative DJ remix number than the contemporary club mix number and should work well for the promotion of the film.
ALLAH BACHAYE : Now this sounds irritating and boring as the rhythmic tempo of "Bad Boy" is slackened and sobered in the soundtrack "Allah Bachaye". It's another version of "Bad Boy" where Alisha Chinai sings at a sluggish and retarding musical pace. After hearing "Bad Boy" this number fails to entertain and rather accommodates space in the album.
Pritam delivers another frothy musical entertainer that boasts loads of entertainment for party animals and disco freaks. Like all his previous hit albums, this too caters to urban audiences and promises funky hip-hop and Bhangra music. Mayur Puri's lyrics and vocal performances of all playback singers deserve applause for delivering the needful. The low promotion and average face value of the film may hamper its audio sale prospects.
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KISSING QUEEN FALLS UNCONSCIOUS
By Kaydee - Eye TV India Bureau
In the News Bollywood's extraordinarily bold and sexy girl, famous for picturizing kissing spree in her movies, didn't realize that sometimes even these happy moments can turn sour. Recently, this happened with Mallika Sherawat when she was enacting a kissing scene with her reel hero Rahul Bose during the shooting of their 'Pyar Ke Side Effects'. This is to recall that Mallika enacted as many as 17 lip lock scenes on the silver screen in her debut 'Khwahish' and created a record in the industry. In fact, she opened floodgates of bold scenes in Bollywood. Several stars then followed in her footsteps and kissing scenes are no more taboo in Hindi movies. However, she met with an accident recently when she fell unconscious following a kissing scene in water with Rahul Bose. The unit members suspect that she couldn't bear the brunt of cold water and suffered from it. They didn't realize that water was too cold to shoot a kissing scene there. The team thought it better to give her a dose of brandy to cure her from cold, but this reacted and she fell unconscious. She was removed immediately from the water and sent out for proper medical care. Mallika, don't you worry. This is a side effect of shooting a lip lock scene in water. Be careful next time. We wish you a speedy recovery! |
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ANUPAMA RETURNS
By Kaydee - Eye TV India Bureau
In the News Anupama Verma is returning to Bollywood, but after changing her way. She has decided to go all hog as far as the body exposure in movies is concerned. She has taken this decision after a well-thought out plan. She has realized that she has failed to reach her destination in the entertainment industry because of lack of glamour in her presentation. Hence, she will soon be seen in her most glamorous dress (scanty clothes) in her forthcoming 'With Love… Tumhara', directed by Kamal. D. Nathani. This is evident even before the release of her movie. In her promos of 'With Love...Tumhara', Anupama has appeared too hot. When asked why she has resorted to the short cut, she quips, "We need to change with time." Today's girls have moved much ahead. Moreover, we cannot ignore the script's demand. In this movie, she plays love interest of Praveen Dabbas who is very 'possessive' about her. So, she has to look smart to woo her hero. After all, she cannot afford to lose her fiance; she must win his lover's heart. In the past too, she has acted a bit different in 'Grahan'. Besides, she is acting in Sanjay Gupta and Sanjay Dutt's co-production 'Woodstock Villa'. Let's us keep our fingers crossed to watch her performance in her second innings. |
| Kunal Kohli's next with SRK? |
By Taran Adarsh, August 29, 2006 - 09:00 IST
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After working with Hrithik Roshan [MUJHSE DOSTI KAROGE], Saif Ali Khan [HUM TUM] and FANAA [Aamir Khan], is Kunal Kohli working with Shah Rukh Khan next? That's the buzz in the film industry. Kunal, who is turning producer with his next film [it'll be presented by Yash Raj], sounded surprised when asked about SRK. "No… I haven't signed SRK," he pauses for a while, "Is that what people are saying?"
Reportedly, SRK and Kunal met recently and discussed the possibilities of working with each other. True? "Yes, we met at Ritesh's [Sidhwani; producer of DON] party. But it's wrong to assume that we are working together. I have just begun writing my new film. I don't know whether the script I'm working on may excite me a few months later. The cast would follow only when I am convinced about the script," he adds.
He continues in the same breath, "As of now, whom I cast, what I make and when I start filming are a mystery for me too," he laughs. |
| Now 'Shiva' in Tamil, Telugu |
By Taran Adarsh, August 29, 2006 - 09:00 IST
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It's slowly becoming a trend to dub a much-anticipated Hindi film in regional languages. Rakesh Roshan's KRRISH was dubbed in Tamil and Telugu languages and released along with the Hindi version at one go. Now Ramgopal Varma is planning to release SHIVA in three languages on September 15: Hindi, Tamil and Telugu. "You reach out to a wider audience simultaneously. Besides, if you think your film has potential and may work in regional sectors, dubbing helps," RGV tells me, "This is the real reason why the film was shifted from August to September."
Meanwhile, RGV has clarified that the new SHIVA is different from the one he made more than a decade ago with Nagarjuna. "That was set in a college campus, this one is in a police station," he states. |
| Salim-Sulaiman will teach music |
By IndiaFM News Bureau, August 30, 2006 - 02:50 IST
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Music composers Salim and Sulaiman Merchant will now be teaching music as well. The two brothers, who gained fame with their background scores for films like Bhoot, Ab Tak Chhappan, Darna Mana Hai, Dhoom and Being Cyrus among others, will be teaching electronic musicians. They will be conducting their course for musicians and sound engineers at School of Audio Engineering. Their course will mainly deal with teaching electronic musicians about the new software which are available in the market and also how to use them to create good effect. It is an advanced level course of three month duration and one needs to be a practicing musician to enroll for it.
The musician duo, Salim-Sulaiman, say that it is due to lack of proper training that the quality of music is been falling down these days. When asked how they'll manage to give time to the institute as they are quite busy these days, the duo said that they will manage to get time out for teaching. They say that this is their way of giving back to the industry that has given them so much in past few years. |
| Being 'KRISSH' can be dangerous sometimes |
By IndiaFM News Bureau, August 30, 2006 - 02:56 IST
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| Krissh, the blockbuster of the year is in the news once again. After setting all sorts of records, it is in the limelight for the wrong reason. Apparently, an eight year old boy in Patna has been hospitalized after trying to imitate the stunts performed by Hrithik Roshan in Krissh.Though the boy is out of danger, his friends and neighbours say that this happened due to the influence of the movie on the boy. Being a big fan of Hrithik Roshan, the boy used to perform similar stunts on the terrace of their building before taking a fall from there and injuring himself.But his relatives say that it could have been an accident while playing on the terrace.
Earlier too an incident like this had happened when a youth, being very inspired, had jumped from the balcony of the theater while watching the movie Krissh.
Well be it an accident or be it an inspiration from a movie, we advise our viewers to be more careful and not to get carried away by the stunts performed in such movies as they are done under strict supervision and performed by professionals. The movies are meant for entertainment and that's how we should take it. | Sandali Sinha pregnant | By IndiaFM News Bureau, August 30, 2006 - 03:03 IST
| Remember Sandali Sinha, the sweet girl next door who made her debut in Anubhav Sinha's Tum Bin. Now word has just come in that she is pregnant with her first child. Sandali tied the knot with Kiran Salaskar, a businessman by profession last November. Wishing these two proud parents to be, best of luck and happy diaper changing days.
Sandali was seen in movies like Om, Pinjar, Ab Tumhare Hawale Watan Saathiyo and Nighebaan and is currently waiting for the release of her film Main Rony Aur Jony.
| | How the Ganpati song from DON got lost! | By IndiaFM News Bureau, August 30, 2006 - 03:10 IST
| The Mourya Re track from the soundtrack of the forthcoming DON, currently making waves given the Ganpati season in Mumbai, was actually redone. Not many know that when some singers came in to dub extracts of it, the distressful reality dawned on the composers, Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, that the song had been accidentally wiped out from the tape.
In an interview to the Sunday Soundtrack program on the BBC, the composers confirmed the occurrence of the mini-calamity of sorts! They said, "When we asked the engineer to play it, we realized it was gone. It had been erased by mistake. There was absolute silence. We didn't have an option and had to redo it. The engineer was sacked!"
The track was successfully redone and has bagged immense appreciation! So all's well that ends well! | | No Ban on Omkara | By IndiaFM News Bureau, August 30, 2006 - 03:50 IST
| A small time Hindi film actor Naseem Khan had filed a plea seeking an immediate ban of Vishal Bharadwaj's Omkara few days back. However, a session's court in Mumbai has refused to ban Omkara. The court though has asked director Vishal Bharadwaj to file an affidavit by September 14 when the matter would be heard. The court has posted the matter for arguments on that day.
Naseem says that he saw Omkara on August 17 and was surprised to see the film get a censor board's approval. The reason for his dismay was the "vulgar" dialogues in the film. He says in the petition that the first shot of the film, which is immediately preceded by the national anthem, itself contains "vulgar" dialogues. The petition also takes objection to the word 'Om' in the title Omkara. Khan hopes that the producers will be asked to change the title. | | Bollywood Films used in Australian schools | By IndiaFM News Bureau, August 30, 2006 - 03:51 IST
| Rakyesh Mehra's Rang De Basanti which created a wave at the Box Office early this year and also got highly appreciated for its content is now being used at the Australian schools. The film about a group of youngsters turning into rebels to fight for justice is now used for discussion at the Beachworth Secondary Government School near Melbourne city. This school in fact has a session of film appreciation where Indian films are screened to the students and then discussed. Rang De Basanti is being listed to be screened for students of VII and IX Std. Besides Rang De Basanti, other films like Lagaan and Salaam Namaste are also a part of their syllabus.
The Shalom College in Bundaberg, Queensland is another school that has been screening Gurinder Chadha's Bend it Like Beckham for discussions. This is definitely a big achievement for Bollywood which gets accused of making escapist cinema. This is a strong proof to everyone that Bollywood is not just about glamour and masala and that it also produces films that are meaningful and sensible. | | Kareena Kapoor will receive Smita Patil award | By IndiaFM News Bureau, August 30, 2006 - 03:55 IST
| Nanik Rupani, the chairman of Priyadarshini Academy has announced that their biennial Smita Patil Memorial Award will be presented to Kareena Kapoor for her outstanding contribution to the Hindi film industry. Priyadarshini Academy is an NGO that has been conducting these award ceremonies since 1984.
This year, the ceremony will be hosted on the 19th of September at Hilton towers in Mumbai. Vilasrao Deshmukh, Maharashtra Chief Minister and also father of actor Riteish Deshmukh, will be the Chief Guest for the function. | | iTunes promotes Don in their world section | By IndiaFM News Bureau, August 30, 2006 - 04:48 IST
| | Click on the image to download Don Music
| For the first time in Bollywood the music of a Hindi film soundtrack, Don was made available of purchase on the iTunes Music Store (www.itunes.com) simultaneously along with the release of its music. This is for the first time in the history of the Indian film industry that a movie soundtrack has been made available online the same day as the official launch of its music, and prior to the public availability of the CD.
And now there is more news to come. iTunes is promoting Don by featuring it as a key property on their world page. What's more interesting is that the album has made its debut with customer ratings of an overwhelming 4 stars.
The customer feedback on the iTunes website for the soundtrack of Don is simply amazing. Bollywood is getting faster by the day and the fact can be corroborated with customer reviews on iTunes that say, "Don has finally arrived. I am shocked in a happy way for the soundtrack to make it to iTunes this quick. I think it's about time Bollywood is getting to where it belongs, mainstream entertainment. Awesome!"
"The soundtrack is just amazing. The music is just great. Shaan with the theme song Main Hoon Don and the music picks up space that is interspersed with some classic dialogues from the film", says another superlative review.
The soundtrack has been scored by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy that is enthrallingly racy, dance-oriented, techno and modern with heavy instrumentals, beats and rhythms, meticulously merging the past and contemporary. Javed Akhtar has written the lyrics with guest tracks being composed by Midival Punditz and DJ Randolph.
This just serves as the icing on the cake for Ritesh Sidhwani (producer of Don), Bhushan Kumar (T-Series head) and Hungama Mobile, the largest aggregator, developer and publisher of Indian entertainment content that was instrumental in this entire development. |
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