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ARJUN: FLOPS MAKE ME WISER

Arjun Rampal starrer mystery-thriller 'Yakeen' is ready for release. Arjun, who has played Priyanka's husband, is banking on the movie for his future career. We asked Arjun more about 'Yakeen'.

Haven't you taken a risk by doing Girish Dhamija's debut?

No. If we think on these lines, the new comers will not get any work. Moreover, Girish isn't new as he has been in the industry for 15 years. I have known him through Vikram Bhatt, and he has worked as assistant to Vikram. Besides, Dhamija has written dialogues for a few films.

Don't you feel that the 'Yakeen's story is an old hat?

No, it's different from films made until now. This subject has been used here as a suspense thriller. I lose my memory in a road accident. My wife Priyanka Chopra and my friend Kim Sharma help me a lot. Suddenly, my life takes a turn when I start feeling that everyone is my enemy.

How do your flops affect you?

I become humbler after every flop. I learn from every such film. And, I become wiser than before.

Why did you return from the US?

I had gone to the US during my modeling career. But, I felt like returning home within one and a half year. However, I had received some movie offers even before I left for US.



[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus at 2-10-2005 01:00 PM ]

PREETI BANKS ON HER SOLO 'CHAAND KE PAAR CHALO'  

Preeti Jhangiani has already traveled a long way in the film world by acting in eleven films. But she is very excited about her forthcoming 'Chaand Ke Paar Chalo' that moves around her unlike her earlier multi-starrers. We met her during the shoot of this movie and had a brief chat.

How did you agree to act with a new hero and a new director in 'Chaand Ke Paar Chalo'?

I agreed because this is a woman centric movie, and my character's graph is quite big. This is the first movie that moves around my character unlike others, which have been multistarrer. Though the hero is new, yet he is serious about his character.

What's the movie all about?

The story is about a bold and self-confident girl who lives with her uncle and aunt. She meets a boy, who is not as matured as she is. However, the boy wants the girl to become a heroine, as she possesses all qualities that are needed. The girl cautions the boy that after her becoming a heroine, he will feel inferiority complex. Thus, there will be problems in their future life. About the movies, I liked the script, and accepted the offer.

What are your other movies?

I am acting in Jayaprakash's 'Sauda'. Besides, my two films - 'Jaane Hoga Kya' and 'Sukh'-- haven't been screened as yet. I learn that 'Jaane Hoga Kya' may be released on June 24th. This is the first science film on cloning. 'Sukh' is a Govinda comedy.

What about your affair with Aryan Vaid? Did he help you in getting offers?

There is no affair between us. 'Sauda' is my second film with Aryan. Moreover, I entered films earlier than Aryan. I should have helped him! Any producer or a director offers a film after several considerations.

Which film provided you job satisfaction?

I think that playing the character of 'Sukh' has provided me more content than any other film.

What's your view about characterization of actresses in Hindi movies?

Most of the Hindi films don't care about characterization of women. This is the greatest difference between Hollywood and Bollywood movies. They offer a role to any one available to them. They look for Bipasha and end with Meghna, if they don't get Amisha and Kareena in between.

How do you feel then?

Sometime, I think of quitting films. However, I realize later that "Jeena Yahan Marna Yahan, Iske Siva Jaana Kahan", and decide to stay. Besides, I enjoy my work.

Why did your 'Chahat--Ek Nasha' flopped?

This movie failed because of wrong publicity or promotion. The producer promoted it by showing the bold scenes in promos though these scenes were too brief. When the viewers didn't find them that hot, they gave the film adverse mouth publicity.



[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus at 9-1-2006 03:31 PM ]

SHAMITA BANKING ON 'FAREB'

Shamita Shetty has been banking on her next Dipak Tijori directed 'Fareb' starring Manoj Bajpai and her elder sister Shilpa Shetty. She told smashits that she has already been doing a movie titled 'Rokra' with Arshad Warsi. The other cast is Tanisha, Riya Sen and Ashmit Patel. We asked her if 'Fareb' is not a repeat of 'Zahar'. She refuted it and advised to wait and see the film before reaching any such conclusion.

What's your role in 'Fareb'?

I have played the character of Riya Singhania in it. She is a corporate woman and slightly proud too. However, she feels lonely, and is in search of true love. Her married life is passing through a bad phase.

What is great in Riya's character that attracted you to play it?

First, it's a character quite close to us. Second, it's a character of the 'other' woman, though it has been justified. For the first time, I said no to director Tijori as it failed to excite me. Again, Tijori came to me after amending the story and the role. I found it good, and accepted it.

'Isn't 'Fareb' similar to 'Zahar'?

No. It has nothing to do with 'Zahar'. In fact, it's just opposite to 'Zahar'. i am sure that it will help me in building my career. Without watching the film one can say anything. When one watches 'Fareb' one will find it quite different from 'Zahar'.

What else are you doing at present?

I am doing 'Rokra' with Arshad Warsi. Besides us, Tanisha, Riya Sen and Ashmit Patel are also in the cast.



[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus at 21-8-2005 12:10 PM ]

ESHA: MY SEX APPEAL LIES IN MY EYES

Esha Deol is the one Bollywood actress who is straight in her answers what may come. She doesn't exercise any diplomacy while talking to the media. After all, she is the daughter of our tinsel world's dream girl Hema Malini. When asked about her sex appeal, she quipped, " My eyes."

What do you look for in your boyfriend?

He must be sensitive.

Who is the hottest star of Bollywood?

Sanjay Dutt.

What about Hollywood?

Silvester Stallon.

What attracts you towards a man?

His well-built and muscular body and short hair.

What's love?

Something that's unconditional.

Your dream role?

Razia Sultan

How would you describe 'Dhoom' in one word?

Joyride.

What's your preference from amongst 'Dhoom', 'Kaal' and 'Chupke Chupke'?

'Dhoom'.

Who is your favorite -Bobby, Sunny or Abhay?

Bobby

Your favorite book?

I am unable to read much. However, I have just read Madona's biography. This is quite interesting.

Which place you like the most?

My home.

What's your favorite food?

I am very fond of spicy food.

What's Esha Deol?

A young actress of 23 years.

What's that you don't like in a man?

There is nothing like this. Every human being errs. And that's what makes him or her a human being.

Do you wish to bring any change in yourself?

Nothing.



[ Last edited by  Gadis_Venus at 16-11-2006 05:20 PM ]

Shilpa leaves marriage to God

Shilpa Shetty has crossed 30, and her friends and the family wish to see her married. When asked Shilpa says that hasn't come across the right person yet and has left it to God. She hasn't the time to think about it as she has plenty of film offers on hand.



[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus at 15-1-2006 02:48 PM ]

Isha Koppikar barred from item number

The Maharashtra government's ban on the state's dancing girls in the recent past provoked them to protest against film stars doing item numbers on stage. The dancing girls gathered in hundreds and staged demonstrations against film star Isha Koppikar doing an item number at an auditorium in Mumbai. These protesting girls felt upset when none of the item number girls shared their concern over the ban on their activities. Yes, the Bhatt camp stood by them and supported their cause in its 'Nazar', but the girls felt that the Bhatts did it to turn its film hotter to attract crowds than standing by them.

Manisha's new choice?

Manisha Koirala was recently seen with a young man whom she calls Madav, her brother's friend. Later, newspersons noticed her with Madhav at a hotel in Mumbai. She seemed to be too thick with him. She admits that she is quite friendly with him. According to her close friends, Manisha is tired and wants to settle down in life. In fact, she wishes her parents to arrange her marriage so that she could shower all her love and affection on him. Are Koirala's parents listening?



[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus on 8-8-2005 at 08:14 PM ]

Amisha: Vikram is sexiest man

Amish Patel is proud of her friend Vikram Bhatt and calls her the sexiest man of India. In the same vein, she says that she would have liked to be a Mughal princess if she were not Amisha Patel. Regarding her dos and don'ts in movie roles, she says she wouldn't mind doing an item number like " Kajrare Naina ?" of 'Bunty Aur Babli' but would certainly decline the "Khallas ?" number. However, she categorically says no to play a stripper.

Amisha Patel


Vikram Bhatt


[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus at 19-10-2005 04:55 PM ]

SALMAN DELIVERS ANOTHER HIT

Though star wars' saga has not returned to rule the box office fully, yet the Most Popular Khan of the Khan Trio has started his crusade. After having witnessed three months of the year as a dull and lean phase, the box office and its messiah want some one to save them from this ugly patch. The prayers are more important as there have not been many films during the last 97 days of the year that could make people and makers happy.

'Page 3' has been the only super hit film of the first quarter and there are about 400 crores of rupees at stake in the coming months. With big films like 'Kisna' and 'Shabd' having failed without a whisper, expectations from 'Lucky - No Time For Love' were very high. The trade was anxiously expecting this film to be a full entertainer. Salman Khan who also has a record after Shammi Kapoor to work with even number of new girls, returns to the silver screen with an Aishwarya look alike Sneha Ullal.

Helping him in his crusade are veteran Mithun Chakraborty and oldies like Kadar Khan and Vikram Gokhale. Item girl Mumayat Khan has a surprise for her fans in this film that has been produced by Salman Khan's brother Sohail Khan and music company T-Series. 'Lucky - No Time For Love' has got very good opening at box office and going by the history of Salman Khan films, it does serve its purpose.

'Lucky - No Time For Love' has Salman Khan playing Aditya, the protagonist. For a love story based on the classic tradition of an innocent meeting a sophisticate girl, Salman tries to make two ends meet with the help of a beautiful girl called Lucky (introducing Sneha Ullal). She is a bubbly, chirpy, innocent and very, very attractive schoolgirl. Lucky is a very inquisitive and also a go-getter kind of girl. She is very soft spoken and also believes in luck. Lucky is a daydreamer. One fine morning all her dreams of catching the rainbow get shattered while going to the school. She gets entangled in the violence, fear and shock after shock.

Caught in the middle of a situation that is more like a war, Lucky clings on to the very next person that she meets for safety. And, this man is none other than Aditya (Salman Khan). Aditya is handsome, smart and wicked too. He charms Lucky and they jointly struggle for the survival. They are poles apart in their life styles. The only thing that keeps them together is the fear of unknown. Meanwhile, they meet an intelligence officer Colonel Pindidas Kapoor (Mithun Chakraborthy). Col. Kapoor is gem of a person and it is because of him that the lovebirds can think of their reunion.

Set against the romantic and majestic backdrop of St. Petersburg, 'Lucky' is a tale of love that brings together two people who have probably never met. First time directors Radhika Rao and Vinay Sapru have a great task not only by making an above average entertainer, but also in terms of keeping the faith of filmmakers alive in new faces. It is very necessary for new entrants in Bollywood to deliver hits otherwise every film maker will think hundred times before giving a newcomer a chance. The vision and the ideation of the film are just superb.  

The director-duo deserves a standing ovation for choosing an unseen and very beautiful location. The freshness and breeze is USP of the film not only in terms of locations but also in appearances of its star cast. Art directors Parhomenko Pavel, Shailesh Mahadik, Sheetal and Avinash Chandorji have done their job beautifully. Milap Zaveri too has put his heart in writing lines. To be brief, Radhika Rao and Vinay Sapru won their half battle when they selected a very strong and efficient technical team.   

Among actors, 'Lucky - No Time For Love' belongs to Salman Khan. He has given a very impressive performance. Salman has proved again that when it comes to be an emotional king on screen, he is the only Khan to look out for. In post-interval scenes he has made many cry in cinema halls. Oh God what a gal this new chick on the block is! Yes, I am talking about Sneha Ullal. Salman's sister Arpita deserves appreciation for getting a better-looking girl than Aishwarya. Sneha is no way behind Aishwarya in acting; in fact being younger she has an advantage over former Miss World.

Mithun Chakraborty has appeared with a different style. People like his style of dialogue delivery. Every time he comes on screen he has some references from the past. Adman Sami's arrival as music composer is another big achievement. All the songs are hit and have been reigning on the top in music charts. In fact, even if you watch only the songs in the film, you get value for your money spent on the ticket. 'Lucky-No Time For Love' will definitely prove lucky for its distributors and exhibitors, and also for the viewers. So take out some time for love and watch 'Lucky-No Time For Love'.



[ Last edited by  Gadis_Venus at 4-8-2006 03:40 PM ]

Biggies of Bollywood have tied the saddles and have announced their comeback in a big way. The crusade starts with Govinda, now Member of Parliament, with his long held film 'Khullam Khulla Pyar Karen'. Next will be Urmila Matondkar in 'Naina' followed by Aamir Khan in 'Mangal Pandey' and so on and on and on. But, right now focus is on 'Khullam Khulla Pyar Karen', once Hero Number One Govinda returns with his slapstick comedy. The film is last of the trilogy made by Harmesh Malhotra starting from 'Dulhe Raja' and then followed by 'Ankhiyon Se Goli Maare'.

Preity Zinta who is on a high post- success of films like 'Kal Ho Na Ho' and 'Veer- Zaara' is paired with him in this film. In fact, when 'Khullam Khulla Pyar Karen' was being made some four years ago, there used to be a competition among heroines to grab the role against Govinda in any film. But, he had lost his charm and that was the reason why this film 'Khullam Khulla Pyar Karen' had been lying in cans for almost two years. Would Govinda who had been away from the filmdom since his election to Parliament return to his fans? 'Khullam Khulla Pyar Karen' is a stereotype film that has been made in the past by the likes of Man Mohan Desai and David Dhawan, but in the age of realistic films, the slapstick genre may find little takers.

KKPK follows the often-repeated path of comedy of errors again. The formula has worked many times in favor of Govinda in the past, let's have a look on how it turns in his new movie. KKPK is the story of Raja (Govinda), a commoner who works in a travel agency. One day he is sacked by his employer (Satish Kaushik), and heads for his hometown in Bihar. On the way he takes a lift in the car of a young man named Vicky (Mohnish Behl) who is going to see a beautiful girl. Vicky is son of an underworld don Govardhan (Kader Khan) who operates in Mumbai. He is not in good terms with another don Damaani (Prem Chopra) who is based in Surat. Supremo (Sadashiv Amrapurkar) wants both of them to shake hands, and on his instruction Vicky goes to meet the daughter of Damaani. The plan is to get the kins of both the dons married so that peace prevails between them.

On the way, Vicky meets with an accident and Raja reaches Dammani's place instead of Vicky. Raja is given a red carpet welcome. Accepted as Govardhan's son, Raja finds this new situation in his favor and starts enjoying it. Damaani's daughter Preity (Preity Zinta) doesn't like Raja at first. However, with the passing away of time they fall in love with each other. On the other hand, after some days Vicky reaches back home and Govardhan gets furious to know that someone else has posed as his son. He sets about to eliminate Raja, but Raja is smarter and declares himself Govardhan's illegitimate son. The climax has many confusions, clarifications and confrontations that lead to a happy ending as always in Govinda's movies.  

KKPK comes to theatres at a time when people no longer want to see jokes turned into scenes and those too seen many times before. Most of the films that Govinda has to his credit had relied heavily on the type of comedy that doesn't require a common sense. But, viewers are no more insensible and cannot be taken for granted. KKPK also lacks novelty of any kind. Director Harmesh Malhotra is in awe of Govinda and seems to have forgotten to take care of anything else. The story progression goes haywire right from the start and to establish enmity between the dons of Surat and Mumbai, he wastes too much of time. Even, sequencing of scenes is not appropriate; sometime scenes jumble and sometime they do not have any connection between them. Harmesh Malhotra puts bizzare things in between and makes the whole screenplay senseless. KKPK also lacks technical credibility. Songs have been played many times before the release of the film in public. Anand Milind may feel lost in the past but even the picturization of these songs is very ordinary, and fails to meet the standards of a director who has given super hit films like 'Naagin' and 'Nagina' in the past.

Among actors, KKPK is the biggest drawback for its lead actress Preity Zinta. Failure of this film will not make any impact on Govinda's prospects because he has nothing left for his film career. He has moved on to become a political leader, but Preity Zinta cannot afford such a kind of film, at a time when her career is going headstrong. She is an actress on her own and to put her in the bracket of Raveenas and Karismas is a bad idea. She is not comfortable in doing all this. It shows on screen too in KKPK. Kader Khan and Prem Chopra have passed their ages of acting and they do not act, rather hamm now. Even Sadashiv Amrapurkar, Himani Shivpuri, Razzak Khan and Mohnish Behl fail to lift the spirits of the film. The only saving grace are some lighter moments created by Johny Lever and Satish Kaushik. Sorry, Govinda! Time has changed for you to move on from slapstick comedies. Maybe some situational comedy brings in some relief in 'Sukh'!

THE SUNNY- RAWAIL DUO FAILS TO DELIVER

The Jat from Punjab strikes back. This time he has his the most favorite director Rahul Rawail on his side. Though, it was Anil Sharma all over Sunny Deol's heart in post- 'Gadar- Ek Prem Katha', but the magic of this duo faded away in the very next film 'Hero-Love Story of A Spy'. On the other hand, Sunny Deol and Rahul Rawail have given at least two super hits in 'Betaab' and 'Arjun' while their other films like 'Dacait' and 'Arjun Pandit' did good business at box office too. Both Sunny and Rawail have been lying low for quite some time.

The genre that once flourished with films like 'Victoria No. 203' and 'Buddha Mil Gaya' couldn't revive until Kundan Shah's 'Jaane Bhi Do Yaaron' that hit theatres in eighties. That film is still seen as a classic comic thriller in Indian cinema. Now, Rahul Rawail tries his hand on comedy, a genre that has not been his forte, and even Sunny has not tried his hands in this department so far. While his father Dharmendra did deliver films like 'Ghazab', 'Naukar Biwi Ka' etc, Sunny Deol after doing some romantic leads in films like 'Dillagi', has taken the greatest task in his career and that is to make people laugh. In 'Jo Bole So Nihaal', Sunny does succeed in tickling the rib bones of the viewers, but the result will b e known after some time.

'Jo Bole So Nihaal' is the story of a naive constable of Punjab police named Nihaal Singh, played by Sunny Deol. He has been bestowed with love from elders and youngsters alike. He is soft at heart but hard at work. But, his plain nature makes him fall a prey to easy tactics. And, it is where Romeo (Kamaal Khan), the dreaded mercenary, takes advantage of him. He uses Nihaal Singh to escape from law. Once out of bars, he goes on a killing spree from country to country. Back home, all hell loses on Nihaal as every one believes that it was he who helped Romeo to escape.

Romeo reaches America, and intelligence agencies there fear that he may be an agent of terrorists to eliminate the President of USA. No one knows as to how Romeo looks like. However, one man who can recognize the killer is sada Nihaal Singh. So, he is packed off to America where in the company of some of the best seductive girls from FBI, he is asked to nab Romeo. But, Nihaal gets a promise from security agencies that he will first take Romeo with him and then let them take Romeo away. The hunt begins and Nihaal encounters many hilarious situations in a country so alien to him like America.

'Jo Bole So Nihaal' scores because of the presence of one and only Sunny Deol. He is the only pillar that makes the film stand at box office. But, this fact is the biggest cache too for the film. Rahul Rawail has shown over-confidence in Sunny Deol's capability to pull the crowd to theatres. He can do so but you need additional masala. No doubt, Rahul Rawail has shown his by delivering a comic thriller like 'Jo Bole So Nihaal.

He has excelled in all funny situations and even made some very good action sequences. In Sanjay Chel, he gets a good writer for comic situations. Sanjay Chel has directed films like 'Khubsoorat' to make macho man Sanjay Dutt do light sequences. He has tried his best to make Sunny look normal in a role that is actually not the best role to suite an aging man like Sunny Deol. But Sanjay Chel passes this test.

The cache for the film also lies in the imbalance of the characters. For a film where you have a protagonist like Sunny Deol, you have to get an antagonist who matches him not only in personality but in terms of delivery too. Rahul Rawail also fails in selecting the right bunch of girls for the film. Besides, the music is not very melodious too. Anand Raj Anand who has given superb music in the past falls short of expectations.

'Jo Bole So Nihaal' will sail at the box office only on the shoulders of Sunny Deol. Had some other good actors and actresses supported him, the results would have been very different. Moreover, the plot lacks novelty. Sunny Deol tries to carry the film on his shoulders alone but starts tiring in between. Kamaal Khan does not have any kind of screen presence even near to be a mercenary.

Shilpi Sharma does her best to brighten the screen with her skin show but fails. Nupur Mehta fails too. Arun Bakshi and Surekha Sikri try to lift the spirit, but for the seekers of novelty 'Jo Bole So Nihaal' will be just an above average movie. Maybe controversies in Punjab over depiction of a Sikh help the outcome of the film in Northern India at least. However, it is the only territory where 'Jo Bole So Nihaal' can expect to make a break even.

Sunny Deol


[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus at 14-1-2006 03:05 PM ]

AKSHAYE KHANNA: I'M ACTOR WITH A DIFFERENCE

Vinod Khanna thought of launching his son in filmdom when the boy was only 19 years old and studied in twelfth standard in school. Vinod introduced Akshaye Khanna in his home production 'Himalaya Putra'. Since Vinod launched Akshay at a tender age, no wonder the son couldn't succeed like his father. However, Akshaye continued to get some movie assignments on the goodwill of his father.

Though Akshaye played roles in 'Aa Ab Lot Chalen' and 'Taal' starring Miss World Aishwarya Rai, he failed to establish himself in the industry. Luckily, J.P. Dutta picked him up in his 'Border' in 1997 that brought Akshaye a wide appreciation. Then, he acted in Farhan Akhtar's 'Dil Chahta Hai', soon followed by 'Humraaj', 'Deewangee' and 'Hungama' and won the audience's hearts.

Akshaye left a big impression on the viewers in Priyadarshan's 'Hungama' even in the company of talented and experienced actors like Aftab Shivdasani and Rimi Sen. Akshaye stormed the industry by his brilliant comedy. Again. Dutta repeated Akshaye in 'LoC, but in vain. In fact, Akshaye's character in this movie wasn't very impressive. The same happened in 'Deewar' starring Amitabh Bachchan. However, he didn't lose heart. Luck favored Akshaye again in Priyadarshan's Kareena Kapoor starrer 'Hulchul'. This movie became a hit, and Akshaye shot to fame in Bollywood. Smashits met him recently and discussed with him his future career and related issues.

How did you lose Raj Kumar Santoshi's 'Khakee' even after the former had signed you for it?

No, it's not so. Truly speaking, I wanted to do fewer films. I didn't like repeating roles. Had I got a different and strong role, I would have certainly accepted it.

Didn't it mean your ouster from movies?

In fact, I was getting offers starring a number of heroes. But I was determined to do a solo hero film. So, I declined many offers. At present, I have only one solo hero film.

Aren't you planning to enter film production because of lack of offers?

As far as entering into the film production is concerned, I had decided about it much earlier. Since I got a good script, I thought of entering into this field.

Would you act as hero in your production or sign another one?

I haven't yet decided about it. However, Akshay Kumar suits this movies' role. I am in touch with him. In spite of this, I may play some brief role in it.

Hasn't your second innings a big flop because of your indiscriminate acting in movies?

No, I'm not so. In fact, I have been too careful to accept all types of roles. Earlier, I lacked the courage to say no. This was possible only after I attained some status in the industry. I did have a long gap before 'Dil Chahta Hai', and that proved a disadvantage to me. However, I wish to act in one good movie every year.

Could you deny that you were typecast as a ladies' man after your 'Dil Chahta Hai'?

No, I don't agree to it because you cannot typecast me in any one role. I have been doing different types of roles since the beginning of my career. That's why I have been able to establish myself as an actor with a difference during my eight/ten- year tenure.

Would you now enter the film direction too since you have already become a producer?

I cannot say anything about future. However, I may enter into film direction when I don't have scope for acting. Yes, I am well versed now with the needs for a good and successful film. So, I may try my luck in this area too.

How come your name remains unlinked with any Bollywood actress?

At present, I am enjoying alone. However, I look forward to living with my dream girl to share my grief and happiness. I am not in a hurry though. It might happen on its own.

Are you afraid of what has happened in the married lives of Aamir Khan and Govinda?

Neither I live nor do I want to live my life like others. One's case doesn't apply with another's. Why do I need to fear or worry due to happenings in others' lives?

RAMU, AAMIR COLD WAR IS ON

A cold war is still on between the famous director Ram Gopal Verma and the actor Aamir Khan. This had started during Ramu's 'Rangeela'. Ramu hasn't tried to buy peace with Aamir so far. In fact, he is busy at present to take on him by releasing his 'James' on August 19th coinciding with the launch of Aamir's long awaited 'The Rising' based on the life of Mangal Pandey, the forerunner of India's first Independence struggle of 1857. Hence there will be a fierce competition between the two giants.

However, Ramu justifies his move by claiming that there is no competition between the two films as they are completely different in their subjects. Aamir's 'The Rising' is a historical movie whereas his 'James' is a mix of dishum, dance, romance, fun and enjoyment, he adds. At heart, Ramu is confident of his movie faring much better than Aamir's on August 19th as the viewers of late have been turning indifferent towards historical films for quite some time. This is proved from the poor response to Raj Kumar Santoshi's 'The Legend of Bhagat Singh' coupled with the failure of Shyam Benegal' 'Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose-The Forgotten Hero'. Besides, Ramu is banking on his hero Mohit Ahlawat whom he considers another Hrithik Roshan to land on Bollywood with a bang. Ramu says that Mohit has all the qualities of a perfect actor.

Meanwhile, there is a sigh of relief for Aamir Khan though as his movie has the proud privilege of opening the 58th Locarno film festival beginning on August 3rd. Producer Bobby Bedi, director Ketan Mehta and the lead cast Aamir Khan and Rani Mukherjee will attend the festival, it is learnt. After its release in India, Bedi plans to screen it in other countries too. Besides, Bobby says that he has a plan to make the most expensive Indian movie based on Indian epic Mahabharat.

Aamir Khan


[ Last edited by  Gadis_Venus at 4-8-2006 03:40 PM ]

FOUR DIRECTORS CHASING KARISMA

Karishma Kapoor who had almost disappeared from the filmdom after her hurried marriage with a Delhi businessman Sanjay Kapur and is now reported to have reached a breaking point with him is returning to the big screen with a bang. Sources close to her claim that at least four well known directors have already knocked at her door for signing her in their films. All the four directors have submitted their scripts to her for her perusal and then acceptance.

The directors don't want their names to be out though. However, they say that they believe in Karisma's talent and therefore don't care about her personal life, including the report about her estranged relations with her husband. While Karisma has already worked with two of the four directors, the other two are equally enamored of her skill. Karisma is studying these scripts and is supposed to respond to them by this month-end.

Who will be the first privileged director to resume shooting of his movie starring Karisma can only be guessed? The entire four directors claim that their stories suit Karisma the most, and she will be back in Bollywood with stronger characters this time round. As reported earlier in these columns, producer Raj Gandhi is making a film on Karisma's real life too. While Sakshi Shivanand will be playing Karisma Kapoor, Shilpa Shivanand for Kareena Kapoor and Kabir Sahni for Sanjay Kapoor, there is no decision yet about the actor to play Abhishek Bachchan.

Raveena back to movies

Raveena Tandon will be back to work in Bollywood but in offbeat roles only. She had distanced herself from the filmdom following her marriage with Anil Thadani and then the birth of a child. She has signed David Dhawan's comedy even though it hasn't been titled yet. Besides, she is appearing as a guest in Rinki Khanna's movie, she says.



[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus at 20-9-2005 02:07 PM ]

Akshay cares a hoot for Karans, Chopras

Akshay Kumar has reached the zenith of success by his films ' Andaaz', "Mujhse Shaadi Karogi' and 'Aitraaz', though his 'Insaan' and 'Waqt' didn't fare as well as he expected. But he is lucky to get nominated for a variety of rewards during 2004, but didn't get any. Despite this, Akshay hasn't lost heart. He is happy that the audience has appreciated his roles. He has no regret for this, as he is fully aware of the procedures adopted in giving awards. In fact, he is too happy while working with superstar Amitabh Bachchan. His performance has been praiseworthy even in the company of Big B. It's not for nothing that he is called Amitabh Bachchan's screen son. He has a fine repot with Amitabh. Akshay will be soon seen in 'Mere Jeevan Saathi', starring Karisma Kapoor and Amisha Patel, besides in Priyadarshan's comedy 'Phir Heraphere', starring Suniel Shetty, Paresh Rawal and Bipasha Basu. Akshay cares a hoot for big producers like Johar and Chopra.

Akshay Kumar


[ Last edited by  Gadis_Venus at 29-11-2006 04:19 PM ]

Urmila enters serious roles

Beginning as a child artist Urmila Matondkar rose to play heroine in N.Chandra's 'Narasimha' but failed either to attract viewers or turn an actress. She continued in half a dozen movies though. However, Ram Gopal Verma's 'Rangeela' took him to new height, and she became a heartthrob for millions. Even Ramu dropped her after 'Ek Haseena Thi'. So, Urmila decided to enter different roles. She changed her image from a bold girl to a serious one, and succeeded too. She is awaiting the release of her 'Maine Gandhi Ko Nahin Maara' in October, besides 'Banares', a completely Hindi commercial movie.



[ Last edited by  Gadis_Venus at 25-4-2007 05:14 PM ]

MUST WATCH SRK'S BEST SO FAR

The much-awaited Ashutosh Gowariker film 'Swades' has finally released. Has Ashutosh delivered what he was expected to after 'Lagaan'? Then, the answer is YES. Though the film again revolves around a village, this time its Charanpur instead of Champaner. A modern setting, depicting the brain drain in India, the film addresses issues like electricity, education and poverty.

It looks at all these things in a very interesting story. Kudos to Ashutosh, as he has incorporated light moments in the film, without making a serious arty kind of an issue- based film. The issues are looked at in a micro perspective.  

Ashutosh Gowariker has proved once more, that he is a good storyteller. However, his fetish for making long films has to be curbed. Unlike 'Lagaan', the second half of 'Swades' drags a bit, with some unwanted songs. But when you come to think of chopping a few things, you wonder where and how, as everything seems to be going right. Though it could have certainly been a little pacer, yet it still holds your attention.

Talking about versatility in acting, Shah Rukh has certainly come a long way. And his role in "Swades" endorses just that. A true touch of patriotism is what one experiences as the story unfolds. A NASA project manager based in USA, Shah Rukh tries to touch base with his roots after many years, and makes a two-week trip to India to meet his governess, Kaveri, who had brought him up as her own child.

There he meets Gita (Gayatri Joshi) who looks after Kaveri in a small village in Uttar Pradesh, where she runs a school for the poor village children. Shah Rukh helps Gayatri to have more parents enroll their children in the school as the panchayat is not pleased with the progress and wants to allocate less land to the school.

The film shows us how he creates a revolution in the village, encouraging the villagers to educate their children, eradicating the caste system and become self- sufficient by implementing his ideas to generate power in the village. In due course love blossoms between Mohan (Shah Rukh) and Gita. But Gita is firm about not leaving the country.

Talking about Gita, Gayatri Joshi as a debutante has portrayed her character very well. A stiff, snobbish and idealistic young woman, who is well educated but chooses to teach children in a village, is a strong character. Being a model earlier, it was expected that she would be a little stiff, but surprisingly she was completely in her character.

The supporting cast, some of them being repeated from 'Lagaan', has done extraordinarily well. And A.R. Redman proves once again that he is a versatile composer. With Jaaved Akhtar's lyrics, the songs take the film forward. Though some of the songs are not needed in the film and sometimes hinder the story.

All in all, a must watch film. You should go in with loads of popcorn, as its a little over three hours. And for Shah Rukh, I think it's his best film this year Does it deserve nomination for Oscars?

DIYA MIRZA: I WON'T EXPOSE FOR NOTHING

Dia Mirza began her filmi career with 'Rahna Hai Tere Dil Mein'. Earlier, she had been crowned as Miss Asia Pacific Beauty Contest. Though she has done several movies, but has failed in securing a right place for herself in the industry. At present, she is anxiously awaiting the outcome of her 'Koi Mere Dil Mein Hai'. Besides, she is acting in Vidhu Vinod Chopra's 'Gayatri'. We met her at the audio release of 'Koi Mere Dil Mein Hai' recently.

What's your role in 'Koi Mere Dil Mein Hai'?

I am playing Simran's character who wants to live her way. She falls in love with Rakesh Bapat though the latter loves Neha. In fact, Rakesh and Neha love each other. My parents want to marry me with Priyanshu Chatterjee who also loves Neha. Thus, Neha and I plan to achieve our objects by hook or crook.

How did your 'Tumsa Nahin Dekha' fall flat? Will you comment, please?

I have no role to play in making a movie hit or flop. Yes, it didn't fare well, but it has certainly attracted positive response to my performance. I had worked very hard for the movie. I am happy that the viewers have appreciated my glamorous image.

What's the cause of the failure of 'Blackmail'?

A movie doesn't depend for its success or otherwise on any one artist. Even films of top stars fall flat. I like to taste success after failure rather than the vice versa. That's more painful. I am waiting for a hit. I don't get disappointed with flops. After all, a producer will not sign me unless he finds some talent in me.

Are you ready to repeat your sexy image of 'Tumsa Nahin Dekha'?

I did a dance number in this movie. So, I had worn sexy clothes. I don't expose my body unless it's need of the story. You may recall that I declined Mahesh Bhatt's offer of 'Zahar' on this count only. I don't want to have that kind of image though. Both my body and face are quite fit for the role of a romantic girl. However, I can act in 'Tumsa Nahin Dekha' like movies if my character is strong enough. I give more importance to my performance.

Aren't you doing Vidhu Vinod Chopra's 'Parineeta'?

No, I am not doing it. However, I am playing a vital role in his 'Gayatri' with Saif Ali Khan. In Bangla, Parineeta means a married woman. A new rising star is playing this role with Sanjay Dutt.

Who is there in your life after separation from Bunty?

Whatever has to happen does happen, and it happens for one's good only. I loved him from my heart, but he deceived me. Now, I don't want to have an affair with anyone.

Don't you need star power?

It's not important for me to have a star in my movie. Instead of acting in big banner and big budget but meaningless films, I prefer to work in low budget but meaningful movies. Life is very short. I wish to do something so that the people remember me for long.

How come flops don't discourage you?

I work hard in my movies. That's why I am still getting offers. I believe that failure leads to success. I haven't lost self-confidence otherwise I would have been back in my town, Hyderabad.

ZAYED READY WITH LIST OF FILMS

That's the cool dude of Bollywood, trying his hand at something else other than acting. Zyed Khan was in the capital to launch a new pizza variant called Freshizza, for the international food chain Pizza Hut. At the innovative cookery show hosted by the food critic Rashmi Uday Singh Zayed got to bake his Pizza and eat it too. After being "Lucky" with his last film 'Main Hoon Na', this youth icon is now ready with a freshly baked list of films on his plate. But we caught up with him to find out what tickles his taste buds.

Will you tell us more about your passion for food?

I love to eat. I am a hard-core non-vegetarian and relish each and every bite of my food. And yes I also enjoy pizzaz. But my favorite cuisine would be seafood and pastas. And of course what my mom cooks is out of this world. Being a half Parsi I also love Parsi food.

Is this your first endorsement? Why only Pizza Hut and not something better which is more in sync with your image?

Pizza hut is in sync with me. I am a foodie and this place is for foodies. Apart from that, the strategy is to project pizza hut to the youth in such a way that it's affordable even with your pocket money. The 50-rupee ad was all about affordability. And being a young actor I guess Pizza Hut people think of me as someone who the youth can identify with.

You are in news these days for your latest flick 'DUS'. How was the experience?

It was awesome. The song that you can see on TV these days with Abhishek was a blast. We had so much fun. Also working with Sanjay Dutt, Suniel Shetty, Abhishek, Shilpa Shetty was all a learning experience. It's out and out action movie for me. So, it was educative in terms of stunts. I think the audiences will enjoy the film.

What about a concert in Pakistan that you will doing?

Yes, I am supposed to do one. And I am excited about it. I have always wanted to visit our neighbors, and what better way than to entertain them and make a few friends there.

What about the wedding preparations?

In full swing! I don't have to do much, as I have to go for my fittings and all. But my parents and sisters will handle major tension. I am not worried about jewelry as Farha, my sister, is into it, and music will be taken care of by Farha's husband DJ Aqueel. And anyway the wedding is in December, which is still a couple of months down the line, so I am not getting jittery now.

What about life post- wedding?

I think it's going to remain more or less same. Both Mallika and I know each other well, so it will be cool. But yes it will change in the sense of being married.



[ Last edited by Gadis_Venus on 4-8-2005 at 10:26 AM ]