Friday, 30 November 2012
Super, Natural Talaash
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The talaash is two-fold for Inspector Shekhawat (Aamir Khan). Not only does he have the mysterious death of a film star to solve on his hands, he also battles the demons of a grave personal loss and the subsequent loss of communication and love for his wife. He is perpetually tried; the case taxes him by keeping him physically occupied, but his mind is weighed down by grief and stress.
He looks for ways to fix them: existential solutions crop up as he plays out scenarios from the past where he could've altered the destiny of the family; and mere physical and practical fixes he can't get himself to do such as a hug for his wife when he gets home, letting her have guests over to lighten the mood.
Khan has a complex role to essay. The combination of communicating to an audience of the thoughts of a character (without resorting to stock tricks as a voiceover) and having a reticent protagonist who labours at the everyday is tricky.
Then he has supernatural forces to deal with, an idea he vehemently rejects the existence of. It's a tightrope of a role the actor must walk. And AK does so, getting across fairly steadily. This maybe the antithesis of what you'd call "an effortless performance". But it is a performance Talaash hinges on.
Two technical factors greatly enhance the experience: Mohanan's alluring cinematography and Ram Sampat's back ground music, the two critical processes required to create mood. Of course al credit to Reema Kagti, Talaash is a film she can well be proud of. I love how she details scenes, rarely pausing for flourish. Nurses at work pull out their cellphones for a picture of a dead actor; the temerity of a prostitute's clothes at work, the restrain at home; the exceptional realistic representations of the homes of the people who make up Bombay: the star, the cop, the pimp.
The 'suspense' bits do have their shortcomings. The lack of multiple red herrings, little reward for long stretches and relatively slow pacing (the last two points are especially valid in the first half) might have you squirming. Over-explaning the big twist in the climax seems unnecessary too, especially when this is hardly what the film is about.
This is corroborated in the manner the actors have been briefed. It is about psyche of the characters and they play it with the required delicateness: Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Rani Mukerji, even Kareena Kapoor.
So it doesn't matter if you can guess what the end is going to be at interval point (like I did); if you're going to watch Talaash solely to understand "what's the suspense about" you're going to be disappointed. Try and empathise instead with the charcaters. Reward then, will look for and find you.
'Prez Obama is my co-star'
Rajesh Shringarpure talks about his H'wood debut
Rajesh Shringarpure, who acted in many Marathi films and is best known for his negative role in Sarkar Raj has quietly made his Hollywood debut as well.
Mirror stumbled upon the promo of the film titled Seal Team Six: The Raid on Osama Bin Laden where Rajesh plays a CIA operative who helps the Seals to nab Osama Bin Laden.
The film premiered on a television channel is the US just two days prior to the presidential elections and is claimed to be one of the major reasons for President Barrack Obama's victory the second time round by his critics.
Asked how he bagged his very first Hollywood film, Rajesh said, "I had earlier worked with director Harvey Keitel on Gandhi of the Month, and it was he who suggested to John Stockwell, the director of Seal Team Six, that I was apt for the role. I met Stockwell who wanted to see my work. The rest, as they say, is history. This film is my second film however it released before my first."
Unlike other Indian actors who talk about theor Hollywood co-stars, Rajesh made an interesting observation. "Normally in a film, if one has to show the president's role in the plot, it is portrayed by actors. However, I consider nyself lucky to be able to say that President Barrack Obama is my co-star in the film," he said.
International films apart, the actor has a full plate back home too. "I am working in Shortcut Romeo followed by a crossover film that stars Dev Patel where I play a villian and then Murder 3," he said.
Rajesh Shringarpure, who acted in many Marathi films and is best known for his negative role in Sarkar Raj has quietly made his Hollywood debut as well.
Mirror stumbled upon the promo of the film titled Seal Team Six: The Raid on Osama Bin Laden where Rajesh plays a CIA operative who helps the Seals to nab Osama Bin Laden.
Asked how he bagged his very first Hollywood film, Rajesh said, "I had earlier worked with director Harvey Keitel on Gandhi of the Month, and it was he who suggested to John Stockwell, the director of Seal Team Six, that I was apt for the role. I met Stockwell who wanted to see my work. The rest, as they say, is history. This film is my second film however it released before my first."
Unlike other Indian actors who talk about theor Hollywood co-stars, Rajesh made an interesting observation. "Normally in a film, if one has to show the president's role in the plot, it is portrayed by actors. However, I consider nyself lucky to be able to say that President Barrack Obama is my co-star in the film," he said.
International films apart, the actor has a full plate back home too. "I am working in Shortcut Romeo followed by a crossover film that stars Dev Patel where I play a villian and then Murder 3," he said.
Nawazuddin in Barry John's debut
Over the years, he has acted his films, directed plays and even trained actors the likes of Shah Rukh Khan, Manoj Bajpayee, Lillette Dubey, Frieda Pinto, Kunal Kapoor and more recently, Arjun Kapoor and Varun Dhawan.
Now, British-born-director- acting guru Barry John is turning writer-director with his film titled The End of Bandit Queen which is inspired by the assassination of Phoolan Devi in 2001.
A source told Mirror, "The film will mark the directorial debut of Barry John. Currently, pre-production is underway and the film is scheduled to go on the floors in March 2013. It is inspired by the events in the life of Sher Singh Rana, who was accused of assassinating Phoolan Devi in 2001 and is still an under-trial in Tihar Jail."
Nawazuddin Siddique will play the central role of Sher Singh Rana in the film, the source said.
A source told Mirror, "The film will mark the directorial debut of Barry John. Currently, pre-production is underway and the film is scheduled to go on the floors in March 2013. It is inspired by the events in the life of Sher Singh Rana, who was accused of assassinating Phoolan Devi in 2001 and is still an under-trial in Tihar Jail."
Nawazuddin Siddique will play the central role of Sher Singh Rana in the film, the source said.
Manisha Koirala discharged
The hospital spokesperson said she was there simply for 'medical examinations'
Manisha Koirala, who was admitted to Jaslok Hospital after she reportedly fell unconscious on Tuesday, has been discharged on Friday morning. According to sources at the hospital, Koirala was being treated by onco-surgeon Dr Suresh Advani. However, the exact nature of her ailment was not disclosed. In fact, the hospital's spokesperson Krishnakant Dasyam told us that the actress had asked for 'confidentiality' regarding her illness.
When we contacted the hospital after her discharge, Dasyam simply said, "Koirala was discharged at 9am on Friday. She was in the hospital only for medical examinations, which were finished by then. But we cannot reveal anything about her reports as she has requested us not to talk about them."
Manisha Koirala, who was admitted to Jaslok Hospital after she reportedly fell unconscious on Tuesday, has been discharged on Friday morning. According to sources at the hospital, Koirala was being treated by onco-surgeon Dr Suresh Advani. However, the exact nature of her ailment was not disclosed. In fact, the hospital's spokesperson Krishnakant Dasyam told us that the actress had asked for 'confidentiality' regarding her illness.
When we contacted the hospital after her discharge, Dasyam simply said, "Koirala was discharged at 9am on Friday. She was in the hospital only for medical examinations, which were finished by then. But we cannot reveal anything about her reports as she has requested us not to talk about them."
Sonakshi's size matters
The actress chooses to opt out of a lucrative endorsement deal that required her to lose a few inches. Deepika likely to replace her
Sonakshi Sinha, who has been the postergirl for the curvaceous Indian beauty, has just walked out of an advertising deal that needed her to shed some serious weight. Not the kind to be embarrassed about her body type or weight, Sonakshi was apparently given a choice by the clothing brand - shape up to fit into our new range of skinny clothes, or else...
But rather than letgo of what she evidently thinks is her USP - her generous proportions - Sonakshi has decided to snap her ties with the brand instead. "She has been the face of the brand for some time along with Hrithik Roshan. However, for the latest ad campaign, the makers needed someone slimmer. So they asked Sona to work on losing a few inches," a source told Mumbai Mirror.
But rather than comply to their demands Sonakshi, who has put on some extra weight to fit into the character of a housewife from UP in Dabangg 2, showed them the door. "She has decided not to do the campaign now," said her spokesperson Bunty Sajdeh and mentioned that the decision was taken after a lot of deliberation and brain-storming.
'Proud of her generous proportions, Sona put on more weight to fit into the role of a UP housewife in her latest
And it is not just the new campaign Sonakshi has pulled out of. "She is no more the brand ambassador. So, I can tell you for sure that she is not doing the new campaign. Her contract with the brand had expired and we have decided not to renew it. Hrithik is the other brand ambassador with Sonakshi. We don't know whether he is still on board or not," added Bunty.
According to sources, the endorsement deal may now go to one of Sonakshi's peers from the other school of thought, namely Deepika Padukone. However, the managing director of the clothing brand, Nikhil Chaturvedi denied that they were in talks with Dippy. "We are planning a new brand campaign but I can't tell you more about it. The details are still being worked out. I cannot tell you who's doing the it," he told us.
Sonakshi Sinha, who has been the postergirl for the curvaceous Indian beauty, has just walked out of an advertising deal that needed her to shed some serious weight. Not the kind to be embarrassed about her body type or weight, Sonakshi was apparently given a choice by the clothing brand - shape up to fit into our new range of skinny clothes, or else...
But rather than comply to their demands Sonakshi, who has put on some extra weight to fit into the character of a housewife from UP in Dabangg 2, showed them the door. "She has decided not to do the campaign now," said her spokesperson Bunty Sajdeh and mentioned that the decision was taken after a lot of deliberation and brain-storming.
'Proud of her generous proportions, Sona put on more weight to fit into the role of a UP housewife in her latest
And it is not just the new campaign Sonakshi has pulled out of. "She is no more the brand ambassador. So, I can tell you for sure that she is not doing the new campaign. Her contract with the brand had expired and we have decided not to renew it. Hrithik is the other brand ambassador with Sonakshi. We don't know whether he is still on board or not," added Bunty.
According to sources, the endorsement deal may now go to one of Sonakshi's peers from the other school of thought, namely Deepika Padukone. However, the managing director of the clothing brand, Nikhil Chaturvedi denied that they were in talks with Dippy. "We are planning a new brand campaign but I can't tell you more about it. The details are still being worked out. I cannot tell you who's doing the it," he told us.
Friends, family rally around ailing Manisha
One of the most keenly followed stars in her hey days, Manisha Koirala's bond with the film fraternity may have grown tenuous in recent times, but the news of her sudden illness saw her old friends and family rally around the feisty star.
Manisha, who is recovering from a failed marriage, was admitted to Jaslok Hospital on Wednesday after she fell unconscious. Even as concerned friends and well-wishers kept waiting for an update on her condition, the spokesperson refused to divulge much on the exact nature of her ailment. However, according to sources at the hospital, Koirala is being treated by onco-surgeon Dr Suresh Advani.
"Manisha is responding well to the treatment and she has been referred for a few tests today. Unless we review the results, the exact nature of her illness cannot be known. And commenting about it till then will be mere speculation," said Krishnakant Dasyam, head of marketing and spokesperson for Jaslok hospital.
Dasyam said that Manisha has requested the details of her ailment to be kept confidential. "So, even if the test results arrive, we will have to seek her permission before we can communicate the nature of her ailment to the public," Dasyam added.
The secrecy around her ailment fuelled intense speculation about what is exactly wrong with the 42-year-old actress, who was once the favourite of A-list filmmakers and was one of the first heroines to work with all the three Khans.
Always seen as the quintessential independent woman, her health scare brought her family to her side. "Her brother was at the hospital all day. One of her family members will stay with her all night. She is weak but she is okay. She had four visitors today in her suite, all of them were her immediate family members," said a hospital source.
Manisha's friends are optimistic "Woh manage kar legi biru," said one of her oldest pals, Jackie Shroff. "She is not a quitter. She has battled so much more in her life that a mere illness won't be able to defeat her." Ram Gopal Varma, one of Manisha's closest collegues, spoke to Mirror twice, just to enquire about her. "I have not been able to communicate with her... I've been getting these text messages about her health that got me very worried," said RGV.
Manisha's neighbour and family friend actor Gulshan Grover said he was with her family in spirit. "She is a strong girl and I hope she will be able to win this battle just as she had won the others," he said.
"Manisha is responding well to the treatment and she has been referred for a few tests today. Unless we review the results, the exact nature of her illness cannot be known. And commenting about it till then will be mere speculation," said Krishnakant Dasyam, head of marketing and spokesperson for Jaslok hospital.
Dasyam said that Manisha has requested the details of her ailment to be kept confidential. "So, even if the test results arrive, we will have to seek her permission before we can communicate the nature of her ailment to the public," Dasyam added.
The secrecy around her ailment fuelled intense speculation about what is exactly wrong with the 42-year-old actress, who was once the favourite of A-list filmmakers and was one of the first heroines to work with all the three Khans.
Always seen as the quintessential independent woman, her health scare brought her family to her side. "Her brother was at the hospital all day. One of her family members will stay with her all night. She is weak but she is okay. She had four visitors today in her suite, all of them were her immediate family members," said a hospital source.
Manisha's friends are optimistic "Woh manage kar legi biru," said one of her oldest pals, Jackie Shroff. "She is not a quitter. She has battled so much more in her life that a mere illness won't be able to defeat her." Ram Gopal Varma, one of Manisha's closest collegues, spoke to Mirror twice, just to enquire about her. "I have not been able to communicate with her... I've been getting these text messages about her health that got me very worried," said RGV.
Manisha's neighbour and family friend actor Gulshan Grover said he was with her family in spirit. "She is a strong girl and I hope she will be able to win this battle just as she had won the others," he said.
Thursday, 29 November 2012
Waiting for Friday
Launched with much fanfare, several big-ticket films are lying incomplete due to cash crunch. Hers's a look....
In the midst of a seemingly booming film industry, with more members joining the 100-crore club, there are still the unfortunate few who have a tough time reaching the box office. Due to dwindling production accounts and internal disputes, several major productions announced with a lot of fanfare get stuck in the cans or come across several roadblocks. Mirror takes a stock of the projects that have halted midway over the last couple of years.
1) Zilla Ghaziabad
Director Anand Kumar'd third outing, the film boasts of one of the most expensively shot songs in Hindi cinema (It cost Rs 2.5 crore and had 400 dancers). Looks like now, the makers are out of cash. The film that is slated for a January 11, 2013 release is stuck since lead actor Vivek Oberoi has decided to stay away from the dubbing studio unless he is paid his dues of Rs 81 lakh.
2) Power
Rajkumar Santoshi launched his film on the auspicious occassion of anant chaturdashi (September 22), 2010 along with his 'power'ful cast - Amitabh Bachchan, Anil Kapoor, Sanajy Dutt and Ajay Devgn. Before it could go on floors in 2011, the power slowly fizzled out. Actors opted out and according to insiders, producer Firoz Nadiadwala fought with Santoshi over the budget that was bigger than what had been envisaged.
3) Singularity
Bipasha Basu hit the headline with the film - her Hollywood debut vehicle. The newly single actress' proximity with co-star Josh Hartnett did not go unnoticed either. But the film never made it to the theatres. Reportedly, the makers- Paul Breuls, Guy J. Louthan, Dale G. Bradley and Catherine Vandeleene, ran out of cash to complete it.
4) Run Bhola Run
After Sharman Joshi and Soha Ali Khan walked out of the project, the film was amde with Govinda, Tusshar Kapoor and Ameesha Patel. A website was launched that showed the actors peeping out of a drain pipe with the tagline saying 'escaping 2011', but the film has failed to reach the theatres so far due to financial issues.
5) Hook Ya Crook
David Dhawan's comedy starring John Abraham and Genelia D'souza was slated for release last year. According to sources, after completing 90 per cent of the film, producers UTV Motion Pictures lost interest in the project that had been in the making for too long.
6) Mr Fraud
After shooting 70 per cent, the film was shelved due to too may delays in production and subsequent financial issues. This was supposed to be Abbas-Mustan's first comedy. According to a source close to the film, the Ajay Devgn, Bipasha Basu abd Sanjay Dutt starrer was 'doomed from the start' since after a fun schedule in London, Sanju's dates went haywire due to court cases. Though the director duo, reportedly, wanted to revive the film in 2009, nothing really happened on that front either.
7) Kahin Aag Na Lag Jaye
Partho Ghosh's project starring Shilpa Shetty, Esha Deol and Milind Soman, according to film websites was supposed to release this year. But the love triangle has shown no sign of progress.
8) Come On Pappu
Rohit Dhawan's Come On Pappu, that was supposed to go on the floors in 2009 and release in 2010 had to be shelved due to the film's estimated budget. According to insiders, Perfect Picture Company after their initial agreement opted out due to monetary issues. Reportedly, Studio 18 and Eros refused to back the John Abraham starrer either.
In the midst of a seemingly booming film industry, with more members joining the 100-crore club, there are still the unfortunate few who have a tough time reaching the box office. Due to dwindling production accounts and internal disputes, several major productions announced with a lot of fanfare get stuck in the cans or come across several roadblocks. Mirror takes a stock of the projects that have halted midway over the last couple of years.
1) Zilla Ghaziabad
Director Anand Kumar'd third outing, the film boasts of one of the most expensively shot songs in Hindi cinema (It cost Rs 2.5 crore and had 400 dancers). Looks like now, the makers are out of cash. The film that is slated for a January 11, 2013 release is stuck since lead actor Vivek Oberoi has decided to stay away from the dubbing studio unless he is paid his dues of Rs 81 lakh.
2) Power
3) Singularity
4) Run Bhola Run
After Sharman Joshi and Soha Ali Khan walked out of the project, the film was amde with Govinda, Tusshar Kapoor and Ameesha Patel. A website was launched that showed the actors peeping out of a drain pipe with the tagline saying 'escaping 2011', but the film has failed to reach the theatres so far due to financial issues.
5) Hook Ya Crook
6) Mr Fraud
After shooting 70 per cent, the film was shelved due to too may delays in production and subsequent financial issues. This was supposed to be Abbas-Mustan's first comedy. According to a source close to the film, the Ajay Devgn, Bipasha Basu abd Sanjay Dutt starrer was 'doomed from the start' since after a fun schedule in London, Sanju's dates went haywire due to court cases. Though the director duo, reportedly, wanted to revive the film in 2009, nothing really happened on that front either.
7) Kahin Aag Na Lag Jaye
Partho Ghosh's project starring Shilpa Shetty, Esha Deol and Milind Soman, according to film websites was supposed to release this year. But the love triangle has shown no sign of progress.
8) Come On Pappu
Rohit Dhawan's Come On Pappu, that was supposed to go on the floors in 2009 and release in 2010 had to be shelved due to the film's estimated budget. According to insiders, Perfect Picture Company after their initial agreement opted out due to monetary issues. Reportedly, Studio 18 and Eros refused to back the John Abraham starrer either.
Sasha takes a shine to 'Ranbir's gal'
The actor have been getting along like a house a fire since they started shooting for Phata...
We'd told you how Shahid Kapoor and Ileana D'cruz had hit it off right from day one of the shooting of Rajkumar Santoshi's Phata Poster Nikla Hero. At the time, Shahid would tease his co-star as 'Ranbir's gal'.
It seems, Ileana took all the leg pulling in the true spirit of a Bollywood heroine. She has been spotted spending quality time with her co-star at a Bandra eatery. What's more, Shahid, who had so far confined himself to versova, has been spotted zipping around Bandra too often. And we have reasons to believe, it's not just work that takes him there.
A source told Mirror, "Shahid and Ileana are very fond of one another. They like each other's company. In fact, they were quite close even before they started working together in Santoshi's film.
However, the source was quick to add, "It is very difficult to say at this point whether Shahid's association with Ileana will go the distance."
In fact Shahid has been known to be a commitment-phobe. Though he has often been linked to his co-stars, most of his relationships seemed to run their course all too quickly.
After Kareena and Priyanka, Shahid was linked with Bipasha Basu for a brief while. "But that was more a case of rebound," the source pointed out. Shahid's alleged affair with Vidya Balan too was a rather short-lived one.
In Phata Poster Nikla Hero, Shahid plays a young boy who dreams of becoming a superstar against his mother (Padmini Kolhapure) wishes.
We'd told you how Shahid Kapoor and Ileana D'cruz had hit it off right from day one of the shooting of Rajkumar Santoshi's Phata Poster Nikla Hero. At the time, Shahid would tease his co-star as 'Ranbir's gal'.
A source told Mirror, "Shahid and Ileana are very fond of one another. They like each other's company. In fact, they were quite close even before they started working together in Santoshi's film.
In fact Shahid has been known to be a commitment-phobe. Though he has often been linked to his co-stars, most of his relationships seemed to run their course all too quickly.
After Kareena and Priyanka, Shahid was linked with Bipasha Basu for a brief while. "But that was more a case of rebound," the source pointed out. Shahid's alleged affair with Vidya Balan too was a rather short-lived one.
In Phata Poster Nikla Hero, Shahid plays a young boy who dreams of becoming a superstar against his mother (Padmini Kolhapure) wishes.
SANJAY LEELA BHANSALI- HUM DIL DE CHUKE SANAM
Lata-ji praised the title track
Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam had to be a success. After having gone through the trauma of a failed first film with Khamoshi: The Musical, I had poured my heart into it.
Failure is a very isolating experience. It lowers your morale and self esteem and makes actors wary of working with you. But I had Salman Khan's support throughout. Then, Ajay Devgn and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan also came on board. We had a great time shooting the film.
I never thought Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam would be so special to the audience. Being a Gujarati, I chose to have a Gujarati family setting for Hum Dil....I got an amazing set of actors to work with me. Vinay Pathak, Sheeba Chadha, Vikram Gokhale, Smita Jaykar, Kenny Desai, not to mention the two most amazing veterans Zohra Sehgal-ji and Helen Aunty.
When the film opened, my blood froze when distributors complained about the length of the film and even cut the song Dheel De in some centres without permission. Cynics questioned the film's ending, where Aishwarya's character chooses to remain with her husband rather than go with her lover. They claimed I was playing safe whereas I argued I was playing it from my heart. The film was a big success. I was surprised at how the audience connected with its nuances. A lot of praise came my way for the songs and the way they were shot. Lata Mangeshkar-ji paid me the greatest compliment by praising Ismail Durbar's title song. I maintain Salman and Ajay gave their career's best performances in the film. As for Aishwarya, we forced a friendship that has lasted till date.
Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam had to be a success. After having gone through the trauma of a failed first film with Khamoshi: The Musical, I had poured my heart into it.
I never thought Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam would be so special to the audience. Being a Gujarati, I chose to have a Gujarati family setting for Hum Dil....I got an amazing set of actors to work with me. Vinay Pathak, Sheeba Chadha, Vikram Gokhale, Smita Jaykar, Kenny Desai, not to mention the two most amazing veterans Zohra Sehgal-ji and Helen Aunty.
I can't fight, Chulbul can
Salman tells us all we want to know about his alter ego and why he does not approve of Abhinav Kashyap's 'tutor'
We caught up with Salman Khan at Mehboob Studios, interviews and sporting a new hairstyle. Salman breezed through the 60 minutes with a cigarette he chose not to light and in great spirits. Excerpts.
How much has marriage and fatherhood changed Chulbul Pandey in Dabangg 2?
The character doesn't change. Chulbul Pandey was going through a very unhappy phase. He had a step brother, his mother was married to somebody else, his father was no more, he was in two minds about trusting his brother. Pandeyji is now a father, the head of the family. He is in a good space. But then comes an emotional jhatka, he goes back to being the old Chulbul Pandey.
Does being married and being in a happy space mean he picks up the grocery on his way home?
(Smiles) Check that out for yourself. But yes, you will see a lot os sweet bits of him.
How much of Salman is there in Chulbul Pandey?
I don't know. Just that sometimes I cannot react when I should; but Chulbul can. There are times when I should be tackling things head on, but then decide to step back, take the beating. But Chulbul takes charge.
Chulbul is full of spunky one-liners. Do you come up with them spontaneously or just stick to the script?
When you are writing it, you are writing it in the room. But when you go to the set, it's different thing.
'It is awkward when women have the 'oops' moments while dancing. I say 'thoda sa upar kheech lo'
What's this story about you talking offense when someone calls you 'bhai?'
All sorts of idiots call me that. Even rank stangers. Not everyone has the right to call me bhai. (Gets animated, mimics a kid) Kids call me, 'aye Salman how you doing...Mr Khan... oye Salman Khan, I love it. But when some people call me bhai I think they are faking it. I hate it when some people call me Sallu. But when they call me that out of love, it shows. It's the tone that matters. Only Arbaaz and Sohail should call me bhai. Besides, my parents have given me a name, it's a superb name, Salman Khan and I prefer people calling me Salman. I think this 'Sallu' was started by Jackie (Shroff). Now he calls me Salley!
How much of Abhinav Kashyap is still there in Dabanng 2?
When Abhinav came to us, it was a very dry art kind of film. The kind of films they (the brothers) make. In fact now, his brother (Anurag) has changed his style. He has now got that masala touch. There were no songs earlier in Dabangg, and we had to change that. We kept improvising and that the film achieved a certain form is also thanks to Arbaaz. But Abhinav contributed as well.
To give him credit, he realised that if you want to make a saleable film, you need a commercial touch, you need songs. That's when Arbaaz came into picture. But then Abhinav decided to opt out of the sequel.
Didn't you want him to come back?
I did a lot. I told him - 'I don't know who has tutored you to refuse the sequel. Meri baat mano, do the film'. I called him twice. Then his brother gave some weird interviews and all that stuff happened.
That he refused to take up your offer must have surprised you...
Yes. I was in Thailand shooting for Ready. Arbaaz told me that Abhinav simply texted him saying that he doesn't want to do it. Then the brother (Anurag) went on twitter and all that stuff happened. I thank Anurag for planting the idea that Arbaaz should do the film and he has done a good job. He has taken the film to a new level.
Dabanng had drawn very negative pre-release vibes - dood jayenge mar jaenge, industry ko duba denge etc. But it went to become the fabulous film it was.
How did you and Arbaaz get along?
We had a massive fights during both the films. Creative debates turned into arguments. It went on till one of us too a step back, calibrated our responses. See, its either black or white, tum bologe off-white hai grey hai... what nonsense!
So who wins the argument?
Whoever is right.
Reena Roy once said....
(As if on cue, Sonakshi walks in) That Sonakshi looks like her? (smiles)
No, that you are responsible for how Sonakshi looks on screen. Do you try to make your heroines look 'respectful' on camera?
(Nods in agreement) It gets very awkward. Women have these little 'oops' moments while dancing. I just say thoda sa upar kheechlo.
Have heroines ever told you what to wear?
Ya. Why, Sonakshi was the one who approved my moustache in the movie.
How much has Sonakshi changed between Dabangg 1 and 2? (Sonakshi, next to us suddenly looks on coyly)
I think Sonakshi is going to start killing it now.
And you are open to Dabangg 3...
Of course, we have already thought about it. We will go back to his past, the making of Chulbul Pandey.
We caught up with Salman Khan at Mehboob Studios, interviews and sporting a new hairstyle. Salman breezed through the 60 minutes with a cigarette he chose not to light and in great spirits. Excerpts.
How much has marriage and fatherhood changed Chulbul Pandey in Dabangg 2?
The character doesn't change. Chulbul Pandey was going through a very unhappy phase. He had a step brother, his mother was married to somebody else, his father was no more, he was in two minds about trusting his brother. Pandeyji is now a father, the head of the family. He is in a good space. But then comes an emotional jhatka, he goes back to being the old Chulbul Pandey.
Does being married and being in a happy space mean he picks up the grocery on his way home?
(Smiles) Check that out for yourself. But yes, you will see a lot os sweet bits of him.
How much of Salman is there in Chulbul Pandey?
I don't know. Just that sometimes I cannot react when I should; but Chulbul can. There are times when I should be tackling things head on, but then decide to step back, take the beating. But Chulbul takes charge.
Chulbul is full of spunky one-liners. Do you come up with them spontaneously or just stick to the script?
When you are writing it, you are writing it in the room. But when you go to the set, it's different thing.
'It is awkward when women have the 'oops' moments while dancing. I say 'thoda sa upar kheech lo'
What's this story about you talking offense when someone calls you 'bhai?'
All sorts of idiots call me that. Even rank stangers. Not everyone has the right to call me bhai. (Gets animated, mimics a kid) Kids call me, 'aye Salman how you doing...Mr Khan... oye Salman Khan, I love it. But when some people call me bhai I think they are faking it. I hate it when some people call me Sallu. But when they call me that out of love, it shows. It's the tone that matters. Only Arbaaz and Sohail should call me bhai. Besides, my parents have given me a name, it's a superb name, Salman Khan and I prefer people calling me Salman. I think this 'Sallu' was started by Jackie (Shroff). Now he calls me Salley!
How much of Abhinav Kashyap is still there in Dabanng 2?
When Abhinav came to us, it was a very dry art kind of film. The kind of films they (the brothers) make. In fact now, his brother (Anurag) has changed his style. He has now got that masala touch. There were no songs earlier in Dabangg, and we had to change that. We kept improvising and that the film achieved a certain form is also thanks to Arbaaz. But Abhinav contributed as well.
To give him credit, he realised that if you want to make a saleable film, you need a commercial touch, you need songs. That's when Arbaaz came into picture. But then Abhinav decided to opt out of the sequel.
Didn't you want him to come back?
I did a lot. I told him - 'I don't know who has tutored you to refuse the sequel. Meri baat mano, do the film'. I called him twice. Then his brother gave some weird interviews and all that stuff happened.
That he refused to take up your offer must have surprised you...
Yes. I was in Thailand shooting for Ready. Arbaaz told me that Abhinav simply texted him saying that he doesn't want to do it. Then the brother (Anurag) went on twitter and all that stuff happened. I thank Anurag for planting the idea that Arbaaz should do the film and he has done a good job. He has taken the film to a new level.
Dabanng had drawn very negative pre-release vibes - dood jayenge mar jaenge, industry ko duba denge etc. But it went to become the fabulous film it was.
How did you and Arbaaz get along?
We had a massive fights during both the films. Creative debates turned into arguments. It went on till one of us too a step back, calibrated our responses. See, its either black or white, tum bologe off-white hai grey hai... what nonsense!
So who wins the argument?
Whoever is right.
Reena Roy once said....
(As if on cue, Sonakshi walks in) That Sonakshi looks like her? (smiles)
No, that you are responsible for how Sonakshi looks on screen. Do you try to make your heroines look 'respectful' on camera?
(Nods in agreement) It gets very awkward. Women have these little 'oops' moments while dancing. I just say thoda sa upar kheechlo.
Have heroines ever told you what to wear?
Ya. Why, Sonakshi was the one who approved my moustache in the movie.
How much has Sonakshi changed between Dabangg 1 and 2? (Sonakshi, next to us suddenly looks on coyly)
I think Sonakshi is going to start killing it now.
And you are open to Dabangg 3...
Of course, we have already thought about it. We will go back to his past, the making of Chulbul Pandey.
X-Files star is in Kolkata
Gillian Anderson is shooting with Oscar winning director Jeffrey Brown for a film on trafficking
Kolkata seems to have caught the fancy of Oscar-winning director Jeffrey D Brown, who has been spotted shooting his first fiction feature film at different locales in the City of Joy. Actress Gillian Anderson of The X Files fame joined the film's cast and crew three days ago. Jeffrey has been in the city for nearly 25 days. Gillian will be staying on for around 20 days as per the film's first schedule.
A crew member revealed, "Jeffery's film is about sex trafficking in India. He is following the story of a 13-year-old girl who had been smuggled into a red-light area of the city. Tilottama Shome, who played Prosenjit Chatterjee's wife in Dibakar Banerjee's Shanghai is part of the crew and so is a young Assamese girl called Nihar Saikia."
Gillian plays a photographer who has come down to document life in India when she comes across the young girl, said the crew member.
The picture alongside (shot by the film's photographer) has the director shooting beside the Kashi Mitra Ghat, a crematorium in North Kolkata.
Recounting the experience, the crew member said, "We were shooting a scene where we were worshipping the Goddess Kali, and this is the place where Gillian first discoveries the girl who is a victim of the flesh trade. There are a few action scenes where Gillian tries to rescue the girl from the clutches of her captors." Jeffery won the Academy Award for his short film Molly's Pilgrim (1986) while Gillian won the Golden Globe as Best Actress for her popular TV series The X Files. Additionally, Gillian has frequently made it to the lists of the world's sexiest women by leading magazines, topping these quite a few times.
Kolkata seems to have caught the fancy of Oscar-winning director Jeffrey D Brown, who has been spotted shooting his first fiction feature film at different locales in the City of Joy. Actress Gillian Anderson of The X Files fame joined the film's cast and crew three days ago. Jeffrey has been in the city for nearly 25 days. Gillian will be staying on for around 20 days as per the film's first schedule.
Gillian plays a photographer who has come down to document life in India when she comes across the young girl, said the crew member.
The picture alongside (shot by the film's photographer) has the director shooting beside the Kashi Mitra Ghat, a crematorium in North Kolkata.
Recounting the experience, the crew member said, "We were shooting a scene where we were worshipping the Goddess Kali, and this is the place where Gillian first discoveries the girl who is a victim of the flesh trade. There are a few action scenes where Gillian tries to rescue the girl from the clutches of her captors." Jeffery won the Academy Award for his short film Molly's Pilgrim (1986) while Gillian won the Golden Globe as Best Actress for her popular TV series The X Files. Additionally, Gillian has frequently made it to the lists of the world's sexiest women by leading magazines, topping these quite a few times.
A Bulky Ranbir as older Kishore
That Ranbir Kapoor will play Kishore Kumar in Anurag Basu's biopic on the legendary singer has been reported earlier. The latest on this front is the actor will require at least six months of preparation and a minimum of 11/12 years of shooting for what is being billed as the most difficult role of his career yet.
It doesn't end there. Ranbir will have to sport three looks in the film to portray three different stages in Kishore Kumar's life. And the toughest aspect of this transition will be the weight gain. The older Kishore will have to be at least 12-15 ky heavier than his younger avatar.
Basu confirmed the news and said, "Ranbir will have to bulk up in the course of the character's development. Ranbir will have to play Kishore right from the time he was 19 till he turned 58. It is not going to be easy at all for Ranbir."
On the subject of piling on the pounds, a source close to the project said, "The Kapoor Khandaan is known to put on weight even when they sniff at a calorie. Ranbir is the scrawniest Kapoor but avoids putting on weight. For Kishore, he has no choice."
Luckily for Basu, Kishore Kumar's son Amit Kumar is on board and will guide them throughout. "We're fortunate to have him with us. However, Ranbir will first complete Besharam with Abhinav Kashyap," said Basu. So, Ranbir will prepare himself for Basu's biopic while working on Kashyap's caper about a con-man from Delhi.
Meanwhile, Basu will use the time to finish the script that is on the verge of completion. He has even got on board Soumik Sen, who has written films like Meerabai Not Out and Hum Tum Aur Ghost. "For the first time, I am co-writing a script with another writer. Kishore is a subject that requires a lot of research," said Basu.
Kishore's songs will be sung by his son Amit. And while they are still being selected, we hear Ranbir will be seen crooning his father Rishi Kapoor's popular number Oh Hanseeni on screen.
Basu confirmed the news and said, "Ranbir will have to bulk up in the course of the character's development. Ranbir will have to play Kishore right from the time he was 19 till he turned 58. It is not going to be easy at all for Ranbir."
On the subject of piling on the pounds, a source close to the project said, "The Kapoor Khandaan is known to put on weight even when they sniff at a calorie. Ranbir is the scrawniest Kapoor but avoids putting on weight. For Kishore, he has no choice."
Luckily for Basu, Kishore Kumar's son Amit Kumar is on board and will guide them throughout. "We're fortunate to have him with us. However, Ranbir will first complete Besharam with Abhinav Kashyap," said Basu. So, Ranbir will prepare himself for Basu's biopic while working on Kashyap's caper about a con-man from Delhi.
Meanwhile, Basu will use the time to finish the script that is on the verge of completion. He has even got on board Soumik Sen, who has written films like Meerabai Not Out and Hum Tum Aur Ghost. "For the first time, I am co-writing a script with another writer. Kishore is a subject that requires a lot of research," said Basu.
Kishore's songs will be sung by his son Amit. And while they are still being selected, we hear Ranbir will be seen crooning his father Rishi Kapoor's popular number Oh Hanseeni on screen.
Wednesday, 28 November 2012
Konkona happy in her mother's care
Shoots in Kolkata for Aparna's Sen's film; will not return till March
At a time when her marriage is under intense scrunity, Konkona Sen Sharma has done what any sensible woman would do immersed herself in work and surrounded herself with the warmth of her family - but in faraway Kolkata. Sources claim the talented actress intends to stay back in her hometown till March at least for both professional commitments and also turned down several Bollywood offers in the interim.
On the set of Goynar Baksho, her first film in many months, directed by her award winning filmmaker mom Aparna Sen, Konkona revealed that she will be joined soon by her relatives from all over the world , who are evidently rallying around her at a time of crisis.
"My sister Dona is coming down from the US to be with me. There are a fewof my closest friends who are also coming down to be with me. Together we are planning a trip to Shanti-niketan. I am here for the entire winter," she said. Shantiniketan, set up by Rabindranath Tagore, is a favourite haunt of intellectuals and expatriates, and hosts several winter folks festivals and fairs.
Konkona's decision to stay on in Kolkata comes at a time when speculations about her separation from her husband Ranvir Shorey have peaked.
While some sources close to the couple claim that a reconciliation may be on the cards, another group claims she may not return to their shared home soon. However, as of now, she is enjoying her Kolkata break with her mother and her family.
Konkona looks happy on the set of Goynar Baksho. "I am shooting for my mom's film so I cannot be with Haroon the whole day. But he comes to visit me on my set everyday after his afternoon nap. We are spending some quality time together,"she adds.
But broach the topic of her marriage, the mood changes. "If you want to talk about my personal life, I am not answering the question," she shoots back.
Sources from the unit say her family is ensuring that Konkana is not left alone. She is always under her mother's protective gaze. In fact Sen ensures Konkona is escorted home after the shoot, either with trusted people or by herself.
"Konkona's friends too are always around her. Though she looked stressed on the first day, but now with her loved ones around, she is back to her usual cheerful self. We have been told to keep her in the best of spirits. And yes, she is completely focussed on her work right now," says a source associated with the film.
At a time when her marriage is under intense scrunity, Konkona Sen Sharma has done what any sensible woman would do immersed herself in work and surrounded herself with the warmth of her family - but in faraway Kolkata. Sources claim the talented actress intends to stay back in her hometown till March at least for both professional commitments and also turned down several Bollywood offers in the interim.
"My sister Dona is coming down from the US to be with me. There are a fewof my closest friends who are also coming down to be with me. Together we are planning a trip to Shanti-niketan. I am here for the entire winter," she said. Shantiniketan, set up by Rabindranath Tagore, is a favourite haunt of intellectuals and expatriates, and hosts several winter folks festivals and fairs.
Konkona's decision to stay on in Kolkata comes at a time when speculations about her separation from her husband Ranvir Shorey have peaked.
While some sources close to the couple claim that a reconciliation may be on the cards, another group claims she may not return to their shared home soon. However, as of now, she is enjoying her Kolkata break with her mother and her family.
Konkona looks happy on the set of Goynar Baksho. "I am shooting for my mom's film so I cannot be with Haroon the whole day. But he comes to visit me on my set everyday after his afternoon nap. We are spending some quality time together,"she adds.
But broach the topic of her marriage, the mood changes. "If you want to talk about my personal life, I am not answering the question," she shoots back.
Sources from the unit say her family is ensuring that Konkana is not left alone. She is always under her mother's protective gaze. In fact Sen ensures Konkona is escorted home after the shoot, either with trusted people or by herself.
"Konkona's friends too are always around her. Though she looked stressed on the first day, but now with her loved ones around, she is back to her usual cheerful self. We have been told to keep her in the best of spirits. And yes, she is completely focussed on her work right now," says a source associated with the film.
Dev Anand stands tall at Walk of Stars
The 2km stretch along a sea-facing promenade in Bandra, show-casing handprints and signatures of Hindi cinema greats, has been around since March this year. Aptly called 'Walk of the Stars', the endeavour by a popular television channel has so far unravelled statues of legends like Raj Kapoor and Shammi Kapoor.
And now, it is turn of the late Dev Anand to be put on the pedestal, literally. On December 4, veteran actress Waheeda Rehman will unveil a statue of the iconic actor at a well-attended ceremony at a suburban five-star. We hear Amar Singh, Hema Malini; Asha Parekh, Prem Chopra and Govinda are among the guests invited to the event. And if sources are to be believed, after Dev-Saab, the very next statue could well be that of Dilip Kumar or Yash Chopra.
Survey goes Gaga over eccentricity
Lady Gaga has been hailed the world's best loved eccentric. The singer is known for her quirky outfits, which have included a meat dress and telephone hat, and often odd behaviour but her strangeness has landed her the title.
The 26-year-old singer beat a host of famous names to top the poll of 2,000 people, including third placed rocker Ozzy Osbourne, fourth placed Prince Philip and Russell Brand, who came fifth.
A spokesman for the survey, said, "British people tend to have a soft spot for anyone out of the norm. This is why celebrities such as Prince Philip, Lady Gaga and Russell Brand are close to our hearts."
"More often than not, eccentric attributes are harmless as they are often the most brilliant personalities."
A spokesman for the survey, said, "British people tend to have a soft spot for anyone out of the norm. This is why celebrities such as Prince Philip, Lady Gaga and Russell Brand are close to our hearts."
"More often than not, eccentric attributes are harmless as they are often the most brilliant personalities."
Moore back in Cougarville
Demi Moore is dating a new toyboy. The 50-year-old actress whose six-year marriage to 34-year-old actor Ashton Kutcher ended last November-is said to be romancing 26-year-old Vito Schnabel, the art dealer son of star painter Julian.
The pair first got together earlier this month at Naomi Campbell's 50th birthday party for her boyfriend Vladimir Doronin in Jodhpur, India, and sources say they couldn't keep their hands off each other.
One told a leading newspaper, "They were dancing and grinding all over each other, openly, in front of other guests."
Since the party, the couple have been "quietly spending time together".
Vito has previously dated 49-year-old model Elle macpherson and 35-year-old actress Liv Tyler, while Demi has three grown-up daughters with first husband Bruce Willis.
Demi announced her marriage to Two and a Half Men star Ashton was over last November although the pair are yet to finalise their divorce.
Ashton is now dating actress Mula Kunis while Demi has been working on her health after being admitted to rehab earlier this year, where she was allegedly treated for eating disorder issues, exhaustion and subsatance abuse.
One told a leading newspaper, "They were dancing and grinding all over each other, openly, in front of other guests."
Since the party, the couple have been "quietly spending time together".
Vito has previously dated 49-year-old model Elle macpherson and 35-year-old actress Liv Tyler, while Demi has three grown-up daughters with first husband Bruce Willis.
Demi announced her marriage to Two and a Half Men star Ashton was over last November although the pair are yet to finalise their divorce.
Ashton is now dating actress Mula Kunis while Demi has been working on her health after being admitted to rehab earlier this year, where she was allegedly treated for eating disorder issues, exhaustion and subsatance abuse.
Sorry, says the 'half'
Angus T Jones is "grateful for the extraordinary opportunity" to star in Two And A Half Men.
The 19-year-old actor- who recently filmed a video urging people not to watch the show because it goes against his religious beliefs - released a statement to apologise to the cast and crew if he offended them.
In the statement released to a leading website, he said, "Without qualification, I am grateful to and have the highest regard and respect on Two Men And Half Men with whom I have worked, and over the past ten years, who have become an extension of my family. I apologize if my remarks reflect me showing indifference to and dis-respect of my colleagues and a lack of appreciation of the extraordinary opportunity of which I have been blessed."
It is believed Angu's role on the show is safe despite his outburst.
In the statement released to a leading website, he said, "Without qualification, I am grateful to and have the highest regard and respect on Two Men And Half Men with whom I have worked, and over the past ten years, who have become an extension of my family. I apologize if my remarks reflect me showing indifference to and dis-respect of my colleagues and a lack of appreciation of the extraordinary opportunity of which I have been blessed."
It is believed Angu's role on the show is safe despite his outburst.
Fashion loses out to acting for Watson
Emma Watson is cutting her ties with the fashion world in order to focus on her acting career.
The young British beauty who has previously served as the face of various fashion brands, recently teamed up with a fair trade corporation as a creative advisor and helped design two clothing ranges.
Watson continually tops the best dressed stars lists, but now the trendsetting 22-year-old insists she is taking a step back from the industry in a bid to concentrate on her chosen profession acting.
She told a leading publication, "It was fun when I was younger, but I don't think it will be quite as much part of my future, honestly. Now that I know acting is the thing I want to do, that's more where my passion is and my focus is."
"I still find fashion very interesting, but it's quite full-`on. I am finding more and more that I don't want to wear a dress and heavy make-up. It's quite intense to do it all the time".
Watson continually tops the best dressed stars lists, but now the trendsetting 22-year-old insists she is taking a step back from the industry in a bid to concentrate on her chosen profession acting.
She told a leading publication, "It was fun when I was younger, but I don't think it will be quite as much part of my future, honestly. Now that I know acting is the thing I want to do, that's more where my passion is and my focus is."
"I still find fashion very interesting, but it's quite full-`on. I am finding more and more that I don't want to wear a dress and heavy make-up. It's quite intense to do it all the time".
Kat-Bir get a slice of Pi
The couple went out on their second movie date and managed to dodge the paparazzi well
They've been playing hide-and-seek with the paparazzi. Last evening was one more such occassion when.
Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif went out on a date in the city, and managed to give the paparzzi the perfect slip. It was for the 5.30pm show of Ang Lee's Life Of Pi that the couple arrived together at a Wadala multiplex in Ranbir's car.
An eye-witness told Mirror: "They appeared to be very comfortable in each other's company as they watched the film. So much so, they did not even leave their seats during the interval."
This was in all probability in a bid to avoid being spotted. In fact, as a part of their strategy to remain undected, the couple walked into the theatre 10 minutes into the show, when all eyes were glued to the giant 3-d screen and the audience was wearing the 3D glasses.
But by the time the film ended, news of the couple being there had spread like wild fire. And a crowd had gathered at the entrance to catch a glimpse of the stars. Once again, Ranbir showed presence of mind and called for his car to the other exit a few minutes before the film ended. "It was timed so well that the two managed to slip out quietly," said the eye-witness.
This is not the first time Kat-Bir have stepped out on movie date. A couple of weeks ago, they were spotted at the same theatre around the same time, catching a late night show of the James Bond flick Skyfall.
They've been playing hide-and-seek with the paparazzi. Last evening was one more such occassion when.
Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif went out on a date in the city, and managed to give the paparzzi the perfect slip. It was for the 5.30pm show of Ang Lee's Life Of Pi that the couple arrived together at a Wadala multiplex in Ranbir's car.
This was in all probability in a bid to avoid being spotted. In fact, as a part of their strategy to remain undected, the couple walked into the theatre 10 minutes into the show, when all eyes were glued to the giant 3-d screen and the audience was wearing the 3D glasses.
But by the time the film ended, news of the couple being there had spread like wild fire. And a crowd had gathered at the entrance to catch a glimpse of the stars. Once again, Ranbir showed presence of mind and called for his car to the other exit a few minutes before the film ended. "It was timed so well that the two managed to slip out quietly," said the eye-witness.
This is not the first time Kat-Bir have stepped out on movie date. A couple of weeks ago, they were spotted at the same theatre around the same time, catching a late night show of the James Bond flick Skyfall.
Saying no to Morgan Freeman
He already has an international presence, what with pivotal roles in films like Asif Kapadia's Warrior and Mira Nair's The Namesake to name some.
The latest though is that Irrfan Khan has turned down the role of the main villian in The Last Knights, a period action-drama co-starring A-listers like Morgan Freeman and Clive Owen.
Irrfan confirmed the news and said, "I take my time to say yes to a project. I am not a Hollywood actor. My survival as an actor doesn't depend on what I do there. Today I am in a situation where I can seek satisfaction from myself as an actor. I want to do characters I believe in."
Apparently, he wasn't too happy with his role. "I felt my character was not getting enough to do in the climax and so, I said no," he said.
According to Irrfan, it provides a certain perception back home when he does films abroad that are received well. However, it doesn't affect his market there either way.
The only reason he does Hollywood films is because he gets a chance to work with directors like Ang Lee, Danny Boyle and Mira Nair. "I owe my Hollywood career to Mira. She introduced me to the West. She never screen-tested me for any of the roles she has given me," said the actor who remained indebted to Nair.
Meanwhile, Irrfan has signed his first YRF film. He will play an intelligence officer in Ali Abbas Zafar's Gundey which stars Arjun Kapoor and Ranveer Singh. In his own words, the character is 'larger than life'.
The latest though is that Irrfan Khan has turned down the role of the main villian in The Last Knights, a period action-drama co-starring A-listers like Morgan Freeman and Clive Owen.
Irrfan confirmed the news and said, "I take my time to say yes to a project. I am not a Hollywood actor. My survival as an actor doesn't depend on what I do there. Today I am in a situation where I can seek satisfaction from myself as an actor. I want to do characters I believe in."
Apparently, he wasn't too happy with his role. "I felt my character was not getting enough to do in the climax and so, I said no," he said.
According to Irrfan, it provides a certain perception back home when he does films abroad that are received well. However, it doesn't affect his market there either way.
The only reason he does Hollywood films is because he gets a chance to work with directors like Ang Lee, Danny Boyle and Mira Nair. "I owe my Hollywood career to Mira. She introduced me to the West. She never screen-tested me for any of the roles she has given me," said the actor who remained indebted to Nair.
Vidya opts for a homely wedding
The actress will marry Siddharth Roy Kapur at the latter's parental home in Cuffe Parade away from the fraternity's prying eyes
The actress who has always acknowledged her traditional roots, will remain loyal to them for her big day as well. Mirror can now reveal: Vidya Balan will marry Siddharth Roy Kapur at a small, traditional ceremony on December 14 in the presence of family and only the closest friends. The one-day affair will take place, not at any five-star destination, but at the sprawling Cuffe Parade apartment in Jolly Maker Towers, which belongs to SRK’s parents. For the uninitiated, SRK is Vidya’s affectionate moniker for the UTV honcho.
Like everything she does, there is a little story behind the wedding date as well. And this was revealed by one of Vidya’s closest friends. “Vidya’s sister Priya also got married on December 14. The close-knit family considers this date to be extremely auspicious,” said the friend, adding, “From next year, this date will bring twice the happiness for the Balan family. Priya especially is on cloud nine.”
Coming back to the venue of the wedding, we asked the friend why couple gave Siddharth’s Bandra current a miss. After all, the Bandra pad is more accessible for their guests. “The Jolly Maker apartment is much bigger. Besides the Bandra apartment is a rented one. And Siddharth is not sure if he wants to continue with it,” said the friend.
As this newspaper had reported, Vidya’s trousseau has been designed by Sabyasachi and she plans to wear sarees for the special day. The couple intend to take off on a Caribbean Cruise two days after the wedding. This is the same cruise plan, which was earlier meant to be a family affair.
Once back, the newly weds will walk straight into their Rs 14-crore Juhu apartment which Siddharth had bought last year. As we had reported earlier, this was a gift for his fiancée. The house has already received his special, feminine touches thanks to the actress, who has been shopping for accessories and highlights for a while now.
The actress is busy wrapping up her Ghanchakkar schedule with Emraan Hashmi. She goes off on her wedding break in a couple of days.
Meanwhile...
VIDYA SHOOTS FOR MAIDEN OVERS
Like everything she does, there is a little story behind the wedding date as well. And this was revealed by one of Vidya’s closest friends. “Vidya’s sister Priya also got married on December 14. The close-knit family considers this date to be extremely auspicious,” said the friend, adding, “From next year, this date will bring twice the happiness for the Balan family. Priya especially is on cloud nine.”
Coming back to the venue of the wedding, we asked the friend why couple gave Siddharth’s Bandra current a miss. After all, the Bandra pad is more accessible for their guests. “The Jolly Maker apartment is much bigger. Besides the Bandra apartment is a rented one. And Siddharth is not sure if he wants to continue with it,” said the friend.
As this newspaper had reported, Vidya’s trousseau has been designed by Sabyasachi and she plans to wear sarees for the special day. The couple intend to take off on a Caribbean Cruise two days after the wedding. This is the same cruise plan, which was earlier meant to be a family affair.
Once back, the newly weds will walk straight into their Rs 14-crore Juhu apartment which Siddharth had bought last year. As we had reported earlier, this was a gift for his fiancée. The house has already received his special, feminine touches thanks to the actress, who has been shopping for accessories and highlights for a while now.
The actress is busy wrapping up her Ghanchakkar schedule with Emraan Hashmi. She goes off on her wedding break in a couple of days.
Meanwhile...
November 27 was Vidya's penultimate day of shoot before she ties the knot. We spotted her a few minutes before the clock struck midnight on Sunday at Goregaon Station, shooting for Rajkumar Gupta's next Ghanchakkar, all aglow with pre-nuptial happiness.
Vidya was getting ready for a confrontation scene with her on-screen hubby Emraan Hashmi, who said he was feeling a tad nervous about the scuffle with a passenger that was supposed to follow.
A crowd had gathered to watch the shoot, which kicked off at 12.15am. We bet Vidya couldn't wait to reach home to be with her parents and indulge in all that remains to be done for her wedding preparations.
Ameesha Uncut: I'm to young for a comeback
The sun may be a tad too bright for Ameesha Patel, who prefers to hide behind her outlandish sunglasses these days, but the actress insists she has not been eclipsed by the likes of Deepika Padukone in her upcoming release.
Speaking to Mumbai Mirror from London, Ameesha laughed off reports that she has a blink-and-you-miss appearance in Race 2. These rumours have been fuelled by the promo released recently, that clearly shines the spotlight on Deepika and Jaqueline Fernandez. But Ameesha claims she is not perturbed. And that she is in London by choice, not because she feels "slighted."
"I am not upset at all," she chirped, "I am in London on personal work and I will be back in Mumbai soon."
Having said that, she does not challenge the fact that her role is way smaller than that of the other leading ladies. "It (the length of the role) doesn't matter to me," emphasises the actress who has been specialising in 'special appearances'
"Look, I just did a guest appearance in the film Thoda Pyar Thoda Magic (released in 2008) and yet I got noticed so well. The quality of the role matters, not the length, "she says, adding, "I have a pivotal role in the film and the importance of my character is no less than any other lead characters," she says.
Small but significant - does that sum up her great come back gamble? Ameesha shoots back. "Who said I am aiming at a comeback with this film? The term 'comeback' only works for the likes of Madhuri (Dixit) or Sridevi. I am too young to be slotted in that bracket. I have always been around. Just busy with my production house, that's it."
Err...but when was her last release again? Ameesha quips: "I had a release in 2011. The film was called Chatur Singh Two Star which had Sanjay Dutt in the lead. (It turned out to be one of the biggest flop's in Dutt's career). You cannot blame me if people didn't watch the film."
We wonder if Dutt is reading this.
Speaking to Mumbai Mirror from London, Ameesha laughed off reports that she has a blink-and-you-miss appearance in Race 2. These rumours have been fuelled by the promo released recently, that clearly shines the spotlight on Deepika and Jaqueline Fernandez. But Ameesha claims she is not perturbed. And that she is in London by choice, not because she feels "slighted."
"I am not upset at all," she chirped, "I am in London on personal work and I will be back in Mumbai soon."
Having said that, she does not challenge the fact that her role is way smaller than that of the other leading ladies. "It (the length of the role) doesn't matter to me," emphasises the actress who has been specialising in 'special appearances'
Small but significant - does that sum up her great come back gamble? Ameesha shoots back. "Who said I am aiming at a comeback with this film? The term 'comeback' only works for the likes of Madhuri (Dixit) or Sridevi. I am too young to be slotted in that bracket. I have always been around. Just busy with my production house, that's it."
Err...but when was her last release again? Ameesha quips: "I had a release in 2011. The film was called Chatur Singh Two Star which had Sanjay Dutt in the lead. (It turned out to be one of the biggest flop's in Dutt's career). You cannot blame me if people didn't watch the film."
We wonder if Dutt is reading this.
Tuesday, 27 November 2012
Happy New Hair, SRK
There has been considerable speculation about Farah Khan's next Happy New Year. The film, which was supposed to kick start this year, has already seen several postponements. And now, as Mirror can reveal, it will not start before April next year.
This rescheduling has more to do with SRK's look in the film than anything else, as Farah revealed to Mirror.
Flush from the high of a Disneyland vacation with her family, Farah says: "In Happy New Year, you will see a different SRK. He will have long, almost shoulder-length hair and a healthy beard," she says. That 70s look? Farah does not divulge much, but adds: "Since he has a clean shaven look in Chennai Express, we have to wait until he wraps up his shoot and grows his hair for my film"
After getting him to take off his shirt and get his pack of six for Om Shanti Om, seems Farah is now ready with yet another challenge for SRK.
Curiously enough, though no leading lady has been finalised yet for the film, work on the sound-track has commenced. "Guess we will announce the rest of the cast in the new year itself," Farah smiles mischievously.
This rescheduling has more to do with SRK's look in the film than anything else, as Farah revealed to Mirror.
After getting him to take off his shirt and get his pack of six for Om Shanti Om, seems Farah is now ready with yet another challenge for SRK.
Curiously enough, though no leading lady has been finalised yet for the film, work on the sound-track has commenced. "Guess we will announce the rest of the cast in the new year itself," Farah smiles mischievously.
STONES HIT THE FINE LINES
The Rolling Stones are facing a fine that some estimates say could reach $320,000(£200,000) after the rock band played past a strict London noise curfew Sunday night.
The legendary band on Sunday performed at the O2 Arena to kick off its '50 and Counting' tour that celebrates its 50th anniversary. The 2 1/2 hour gig ended with Jumpin' Jack Flash with a leading newspaper on Monday reporting that they had planned to end with Satisfaction, but cut out the classic due to the curfew.
The newspaper also reported that the Stones were now facing a fine for wrapping up the concert around 11 pm. The curfew calls for Sunday performances to end at 10.20 pm, with time for a "quick" encore after that, effectively requiring musicians to leave the stage at 10.30pm.
The size of the fine wasn't immediately clear, but reportedly, it was in the five-figure (£) range.
A tabloid even estimated it at $320,000. The band's agent, Bernard Doherty,told newspaper, "It means a big fine - but the guys just do their thing. There wasn't a janitor standing there, jangling his keys, saying. 'I want to go home'."
According to reports, lead singer Mick Jagger said out loud on stage on Sunday that his band members had better "get a move on" due to the noise curfew.
The estimated fine is, of course, much smaller than the short tour's projected revenue. It was excepted to bring in $25 million (£15.6 million) before a fifth gig in Brooklyn was added to concerts in London and New Jersey.
The London curfew earlier this year made headlines when two other music legends ran afoul of it. Bruce Springsteen and Paul McCartney had their microphones cut off on stage in the British capital's Hyde Park after Springsteen exceeded the curfew. "When did England become a police state?" Springsteen guitarist Steven Van Zandt had tweeted.
The legendary band on Sunday performed at the O2 Arena to kick off its '50 and Counting' tour that celebrates its 50th anniversary. The 2 1/2 hour gig ended with Jumpin' Jack Flash with a leading newspaper on Monday reporting that they had planned to end with Satisfaction, but cut out the classic due to the curfew.
The newspaper also reported that the Stones were now facing a fine for wrapping up the concert around 11 pm. The curfew calls for Sunday performances to end at 10.20 pm, with time for a "quick" encore after that, effectively requiring musicians to leave the stage at 10.30pm.
The size of the fine wasn't immediately clear, but reportedly, it was in the five-figure (£) range.
A tabloid even estimated it at $320,000. The band's agent, Bernard Doherty,told newspaper, "It means a big fine - but the guys just do their thing. There wasn't a janitor standing there, jangling his keys, saying. 'I want to go home'."
According to reports, lead singer Mick Jagger said out loud on stage on Sunday that his band members had better "get a move on" due to the noise curfew.
The estimated fine is, of course, much smaller than the short tour's projected revenue. It was excepted to bring in $25 million (£15.6 million) before a fifth gig in Brooklyn was added to concerts in London and New Jersey.
The London curfew earlier this year made headlines when two other music legends ran afoul of it. Bruce Springsteen and Paul McCartney had their microphones cut off on stage in the British capital's Hyde Park after Springsteen exceeded the curfew. "When did England become a police state?" Springsteen guitarist Steven Van Zandt had tweeted.
Bitter half hits back
Angus T Jones is in showbiz limbo, because he hasn't quit Two and a Half Men and show exces haven't fired him after he trashed the show, according to a leading website.
Sources connected with the show say that everyone has seen Angus' video, in which he calls the sitcom "filth" and asks the audience to boycott. We've learnt Angus, who rakes in @350,000 an episode, has not contacted any of the show honchos to express his intentions, nor have any of his reps done the same.
Angus says in the video he doesn't want to be on the show anymore but the show excess havent been told.
Angus says in the video he doesn't want to be on the show anymore but the show excess havent been told.
Sheen's charity
Charlie Sheen gave away all of his earnings from Scary Movie 5. The former Two And A Half Men star - who reportedly sent his co-star Lindsay Lohan a cheque for $100,000 to cover almost half of her hefty tax bill after they bonded while filming the movie together - is said to have given the rest of his fee to charity.
A source close to the 47-year-old Anger Management star told a leading website that the actor was paid a total of $250,000 for one day's work on the movie in September. The insider revealed that the 26-year-old actress wasn't the only person to benefit because he donated the remaining $150,000 to three different charities. The charities have not been identified yet but they are said to have been selected by the director Malcolm D. Lee, as well others involved in the movie.
A source close to the 47-year-old Anger Management star told a leading website that the actor was paid a total of $250,000 for one day's work on the movie in September. The insider revealed that the 26-year-old actress wasn't the only person to benefit because he donated the remaining $150,000 to three different charities. The charities have not been identified yet but they are said to have been selected by the director Malcolm D. Lee, as well others involved in the movie.
R-Stew hit the road
After spending Thanksgiving together, the Twilight couple are off on their travels together again. The latest sighting of the lesser spotted K-Stew has occured - this time at LAX airport.
Just a few days ago, we saw the couple, who are basically joined at the hip these days since making up after all that cheating business, arriving in New York for Thanksgiving.
And just like then, Kristen is once again wearing the kind of aeroplane chic that the general public can totally relate to.
Her baggy white T-shirt, lumberjack shirt and skinny jeans with pumps are perfect for flying comfort - no Louboutins here, thank you very much (those jeans look pretty tight though - not great for the in-flight bloat which always occurs).
Also missing from Kristen's person is a smile, but we've come to accept that as the norm now - although there were quite a few flashed during their recent Twilight promotional work. Still, no one likes travelling that much and we'd imagine they're just about done with answering the same questions about making another Twilight film.
Just a few days ago, we saw the couple, who are basically joined at the hip these days since making up after all that cheating business, arriving in New York for Thanksgiving.
Her baggy white T-shirt, lumberjack shirt and skinny jeans with pumps are perfect for flying comfort - no Louboutins here, thank you very much (those jeans look pretty tight though - not great for the in-flight bloat which always occurs).
Also missing from Kristen's person is a smile, but we've come to accept that as the norm now - although there were quite a few flashed during their recent Twilight promotional work. Still, no one likes travelling that much and we'd imagine they're just about done with answering the same questions about making another Twilight film.
Akshay Kumar's costume fetish
Many of our stars are known for their quirks and Akshay Kumar is no exception. Recently, the actor demonstrated his unique style of dubbing during the filming of Khiladi 786.
At the dubbing studio, he opted to wear the same kurta and denims that he had worn during the film's shooting. He believes the uniformity of dress helps him get back into the character, given the gap between shooting and dubbing. Add to it the fact he is usually working in multiple films, hopping from one studio to the other.
Incidentially, Akshay's costume in the film has been designed by director Ashish R Mohan's wife.
Incidentially, Akshay's costume in the film has been designed by director Ashish R Mohan's wife.
PeeCee to live like Mary
As a part of her training for the biopic on the boxer, she will not only learn the sport but also stay in Manipur with the Olympic medallist's family
Priyanka Chopra, who has been finalised to play Mary Kom on screen for Sanjay Leela Bhansali's ambitious project (having defeated Deepika Padukone in the race, thanks to her stature that matches Mary's) will learn boxing from the Olympic medallist for four months early next year. The rigorous boxing training is part of the acting workshop that Priyanka will go through to prepare herself to play the boxer on screen.
Both Mary and Priyanka will cut down on their assignments to spend time with each other. "Priyanka has never thrown a punch at anybody before in real life. But now, Mary will be acting as her boxing coach for four months. The first two months will be spent in learning the ropes of boxing. For the next two months, Priyanka will be learning on how to box like Mary Kom. Four months is very little time but Priyanka will be learning is confident that she will be able to fight like a pro in those four months," said a source close to Bhansali.
According to our source, Priyanka will also travel to Manipur to stay with Mary's family. "She needs to understand how Mary has struggled to perfect her spot even though she had to play mother to twins and take care of her husband. There are a lot of things about Mary's family that nobody knows. For instance, Mary's father became aware of his daughter's affinity to boxing only after he read about her achievements in the newspaper. By spending time with the family, Priyanka will get to know about such stories," said the source.
We learnt that the trip to Manipur will happen during the four months. And once it's over, she will start shooting.
Interestingly, this film will also mark the Bollywood debut of Mary as she will be making a guest appearance in the film, most probably as one of Priyanka's opponents in a bout towards the climax.
When Mirror got in touch with MC Mary Kom, she confirmed that she would be working closely with the film's unit.
Priyanka Chopra, who has been finalised to play Mary Kom on screen for Sanjay Leela Bhansali's ambitious project (having defeated Deepika Padukone in the race, thanks to her stature that matches Mary's) will learn boxing from the Olympic medallist for four months early next year. The rigorous boxing training is part of the acting workshop that Priyanka will go through to prepare herself to play the boxer on screen.
According to our source, Priyanka will also travel to Manipur to stay with Mary's family. "She needs to understand how Mary has struggled to perfect her spot even though she had to play mother to twins and take care of her husband. There are a lot of things about Mary's family that nobody knows. For instance, Mary's father became aware of his daughter's affinity to boxing only after he read about her achievements in the newspaper. By spending time with the family, Priyanka will get to know about such stories," said the source.
We learnt that the trip to Manipur will happen during the four months. And once it's over, she will start shooting.
Interestingly, this film will also mark the Bollywood debut of Mary as she will be making a guest appearance in the film, most probably as one of Priyanka's opponents in a bout towards the climax.
When Mirror got in touch with MC Mary Kom, she confirmed that she would be working closely with the film's unit.
Monday, 26 November 2012
SRK does a DDLJ again
For Rohit Shetty's Chennai Express, he shot a train sequence with Deepika in Goa that was reminiscent of the iconic scene
Rohit Shetty's Goa obsession is apparent in all his films - be it the Golmaal series, Bol Bachchan or Singham. And it comes as no surprise that for his next Chennai Express, the filmmaker has decided on Goa as his locale of choice. Interestingly, the scene that the crew has been busy shooting over the weekend involves lead actor Shah Rukh Khan helping his on-screen ladylove Deepika Padukone on to the train waiting at Vasco platform number 2. And according to eyewitnesses, it reminds one of a similar scene (albeit in a platform in London and later Punjab) in Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge.
And that's not all. For Rohit's film, the platform in Vasco junction has been transformed to Kalyan station. Earlier, Shah Rukh had shot at CST. The sequence shot a month back involved the lead actor starting off his Chennai Express journey with blessings from an old woman.
"Shah Rukh Khan has been shooting at the Vasco junction since Saturday," said a source close to the film, adding, "Platform number 2 has been cordoned off and the shoot is taking place there. A train has also been hired. This is Deepika's first outdoor shoot for the film."
However, when asked about the similarity of the scene to the iconic DDLJ sequence, the source claimed, "There is a resemblance, yes. But it's not an attempt to recreate the scene. This happens to be an important part of the sequence of events."
Incidentially, Deepika's look in the film is strictly south Indian. "She is sporting a half saree and two long plaits. SRK on the other hand has a very casual wardrobe in the film," said the source.
Apparently, from Vasco, the crew will now head towards the Dudhsagar waterfalls for the next schedule. When contacted, Rohit confirmed the story.
The film is a co-produced by UTV Motion Pictures and Red Chillies.
Rohit Shetty's Goa obsession is apparent in all his films - be it the Golmaal series, Bol Bachchan or Singham. And it comes as no surprise that for his next Chennai Express, the filmmaker has decided on Goa as his locale of choice. Interestingly, the scene that the crew has been busy shooting over the weekend involves lead actor Shah Rukh Khan helping his on-screen ladylove Deepika Padukone on to the train waiting at Vasco platform number 2. And according to eyewitnesses, it reminds one of a similar scene (albeit in a platform in London and later Punjab) in Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge.
"Shah Rukh Khan has been shooting at the Vasco junction since Saturday," said a source close to the film, adding, "Platform number 2 has been cordoned off and the shoot is taking place there. A train has also been hired. This is Deepika's first outdoor shoot for the film."
However, when asked about the similarity of the scene to the iconic DDLJ sequence, the source claimed, "There is a resemblance, yes. But it's not an attempt to recreate the scene. This happens to be an important part of the sequence of events."
Apparently, from Vasco, the crew will now head towards the Dudhsagar waterfalls for the next schedule. When contacted, Rohit confirmed the story.
The film is a co-produced by UTV Motion Pictures and Red Chillies.
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