Some Good News For Pakistan Cricket.
PCB responded to Wasim Akram’s offer. The legend will coach young bowlers in Pakistan.
Showing posts with label Bollywood. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bollywood. Show all posts
Monday, 13 August 2012
Veena Malik Live On Show (Funny call)
World’s Funniest show by private TV channel for this she charged 4 Million of 7 episodes (recorded)
Saturday, 14 January 2012
Veena In Action (Item Song Video)
Veena In Action (Item Song Video)
"Chhanno Song" | Gali Gali Chor Hai
Veena Malik Is well Known Pakistani Celebrity, Who works In Pakistan as well as in India. She is Famous for her drama. Her scandals made her very popular like Muhammad Asif's Girl Friend, Big Boss (Indian Show) and a very famous Photo Shoot for FHM Magazine
Now she is in Item song "Chhanno Song". Comment Please
Now she is in Item song "Chhanno Song". Comment Please
Agneepath: Second time around
Agneepath: Second time around
KARACHI: From the timeless tear-jerker Kuch Kuch Hota Hai to the gangster film Vaastav — it seems Bollywood is a potpourri of drama. However, this time around it’s not just the classic originals that are getting the limelight, in fact, the slicker remakes that are underway are gaining attention. One of the most anticipated remakes is Agneepath, which is set for an international release on January 26 release.
From the disappointing Umrao Jaan to the notorious Aag, the Bollywood experience with remakes has left audiences disheartened. Nevertheless, critics and audiences are hoping for a complete turnaround with Agneepath.
A 1990s Bollywood super hit film, Agneepath unleashed the angry young man in Amitabh Bachchan in the form of Vijay Dinanath Chauhan — one of the most memorable characters of Bollywood. The character of Chauhan was essentially inspired by, if not taken completely from, Tony Montana, the drug lord from the 1983 classic Scarface, played by the legendary Al Pacino. Famous Al Pacino one-liners like, “I am Tony, Tony Montana” were taken up as “Vijay, Dinanath, Chauhan” and everything from the look of the characters to their postures and way of delivering lines were similar. Nonetheless, at the time, Agneepath managed to give Bollywood something new.
Coming to the remake of Agneepath, the casting looks promising judging from the trailer release. The buffed up Hrithik Roshan plays Chauhan and a bald Sanjay Dutt plays the villain Kancha Cheena who was originally played by Danny Denzongpa. Although Bollywood has been relying on heroes instead of actors these days, the casting of Roshan in Bachchan’s legendary role has raised some eyebrows.
However, Roshan seems unaffected by all this criticism. “I think it’s absurd that anyone would think I was trying to ape the Vijay Dinanath Chauhan of the original,” he retorts. “The only way I can do justice to a movie is to make it mine, and (make) the character me. I’ve played Vijay straight and simple, without any swagger or style. He is someone who would merge in a crowd if the camera hadn’t picked him out to tell his story.”
Still, there is a chance that Dutt would steal the show from Roshan. It is a well-known fact that when the charismatic Dutt embraces an evil character, everything else fades in comparison. Right now, it seems difficult that the masala-fed Indian audiences would love the bad guy in the presence of a good one. Still, it would be interesting to see Dutt embody the kind of emotional depth portrayed by the late Heath Ledger in his iconic bad guy role of Joker in the Batman installment The Dark Knight.
When it comes to the leading lady, Priyanka Chopra fills in for Madhavi who played the character of Mary — Chauhan’s nurse and love interest in the original film. From the looks of it, Chopra may make an essentially dark film look pretty. Another interesting development is that one of the most important characters Krishnan Iyer played by Mithun Chakraborty has been removed from the film.
On the topic of Bollywood remakes, one has to be really careful with a project like Agneepath, especially since a remake of fan-favourite Sholay (another Hollywood inspired project) was a critical and commercial fail. The good thing for the Agneepath remake is that it has Yash Johar’s Dharma productions and the acclaimed Karan Johar backing the production. However, it must be remembered that Kaal, the last action film produced by Johar was a disappointment and left many eyebrows raised and critics confused.
Let’s hope that director Karan Malhotra gives Johar something to be happy about and audiences something to celebrate.
Published in The Express Tribune, January 14th, 2012.
KARACHI: From the timeless tear-jerker Kuch Kuch Hota Hai to the gangster film Vaastav — it seems Bollywood is a potpourri of drama. However, this time around it’s not just the classic originals that are getting the limelight, in fact, the slicker remakes that are underway are gaining attention. One of the most anticipated remakes is Agneepath, which is set for an international release on January 26 release.
From the disappointing Umrao Jaan to the notorious Aag, the Bollywood experience with remakes has left audiences disheartened. Nevertheless, critics and audiences are hoping for a complete turnaround with Agneepath.
Coming to the remake of Agneepath, the casting looks promising judging from the trailer release. The buffed up Hrithik Roshan plays Chauhan and a bald Sanjay Dutt plays the villain Kancha Cheena who was originally played by Danny Denzongpa. Although Bollywood has been relying on heroes instead of actors these days, the casting of Roshan in Bachchan’s legendary role has raised some eyebrows.
However, Roshan seems unaffected by all this criticism. “I think it’s absurd that anyone would think I was trying to ape the Vijay Dinanath Chauhan of the original,” he retorts. “The only way I can do justice to a movie is to make it mine, and (make) the character me. I’ve played Vijay straight and simple, without any swagger or style. He is someone who would merge in a crowd if the camera hadn’t picked him out to tell his story.”
Still, there is a chance that Dutt would steal the show from Roshan. It is a well-known fact that when the charismatic Dutt embraces an evil character, everything else fades in comparison. Right now, it seems difficult that the masala-fed Indian audiences would love the bad guy in the presence of a good one. Still, it would be interesting to see Dutt embody the kind of emotional depth portrayed by the late Heath Ledger in his iconic bad guy role of Joker in the Batman installment The Dark Knight.
When it comes to the leading lady, Priyanka Chopra fills in for Madhavi who played the character of Mary — Chauhan’s nurse and love interest in the original film. From the looks of it, Chopra may make an essentially dark film look pretty. Another interesting development is that one of the most important characters Krishnan Iyer played by Mithun Chakraborty has been removed from the film.
On the topic of Bollywood remakes, one has to be really careful with a project like Agneepath, especially since a remake of fan-favourite Sholay (another Hollywood inspired project) was a critical and commercial fail. The good thing for the Agneepath remake is that it has Yash Johar’s Dharma productions and the acclaimed Karan Johar backing the production. However, it must be remembered that Kaal, the last action film produced by Johar was a disappointment and left many eyebrows raised and critics confused.
Let’s hope that director Karan Malhotra gives Johar something to be happy about and audiences something to celebrate.
Published in The Express Tribune, January 14th, 2012.
Tuesday, 10 January 2012
I WILL NOT STRIP FOR HOLLYWOOD: VEENA MALIK
I WILL NOT STRIP FOR HOLLYWOOD: VEENA MALIK
Pakistani actress and model Veena Malik, who is currently in Dubai with her London PR team sealing deals for 2012, has confirmed that she will not strip for Hollywood.
“I would never strip for any industry. These are absolutely silly comments coming from the press and media that upset me and my fans. I am an actress and everyone in this industry does what the role requires. I will act according to my role but this doesn’t mean I will forget my values’,” said Veena Malik.
Veena says she is looking forward to the release of her debut item song ‘Channo’ in Nitin Manmohan’s – Gali Gali Chor Hai which hits TV promos in the next few days. She also hopes to make her mark in Bollywood in the year 2012.
“I have three films coming out this year, plus Swayamvar and other projects.”
Veena says she had offers from many international publications requiring a bold shoot, but she turned them down.
“I have my principles and I do what suits my personality and style.’’
According to sources, Veena has made amends with her father and will visit Pakistan to meet him and the rest of the family .
“Every father has the right to tell their child off if they think they are wrong and my father is no different. But now he has cooled down and we are totally fine. I will be seeing them all in a few weeks, and I am very excited about it,” Veena was quoted as saying.
Pakistani actress and model Veena Malik, who is currently in Dubai with her London PR team sealing deals for 2012, has confirmed that she will not strip for Hollywood.
“I would never strip for any industry. These are absolutely silly comments coming from the press and media that upset me and my fans. I am an actress and everyone in this industry does what the role requires. I will act according to my role but this doesn’t mean I will forget my values’,” said Veena Malik.
Veena says she is looking forward to the release of her debut item song ‘Channo’ in Nitin Manmohan’s – Gali Gali Chor Hai which hits TV promos in the next few days. She also hopes to make her mark in Bollywood in the year 2012.
“I have three films coming out this year, plus Swayamvar and other projects.”
Veena says she had offers from many international publications requiring a bold shoot, but she turned them down.
“I have my principles and I do what suits my personality and style.’’
According to sources, Veena has made amends with her father and will visit Pakistan to meet him and the rest of the family .
“Every father has the right to tell their child off if they think they are wrong and my father is no different. But now he has cooled down and we are totally fine. I will be seeing them all in a few weeks, and I am very excited about it,” Veena was quoted as saying.
Monday, 9 January 2012
Players (Movie Review)
Players (Movie Review)
CAST : Abhishek Bachchan, bipasha basu, Sonam Kapoor
You cannot help but compare the last film of 2011 with the first film of 2012. Both have a lot in common — “Don 2″ and “Players” are both heist films, both borrow heavily from Hollywood movies and have their share of over-the-top cheesy moments. There is just one thing that sets “Players” apart — there’s a lot more action in this one.
Director duo Abbas-Mustan make sure there’s plenty to keep you on the edge of your seat, and even though the film drags on longer than it should, you are still not looking to bolt from the hall.
Borrowing from the premise of “The Italian Job”, “Players” tells the story of Charlie Fernandes (Abhishek Bachchan), who plans to rob gold bars worth billions of dollars while it is being transferred from one country to another by train.
He enlists the help of hardened criminal Victor Braganza (Vinod Khanna), who helps him put together a team of a hacker, illusionist, make-up artist and Riya (Bipasha Basu), Charlie’s trusted partner in earlier crimes.
They pull off the heist after an edge-of-the-seat sequence but that’s not quite the end of the story. I won’t reveal anymore because not everyone’s watched “The Italian Job”, but suffice it to say the directors add enough songs, comic tracks and corny dialogues to ensure they’ve “tailored” it to Indian tastes.
There are several plotholes, the acting is plain vanilla and you can see the myriad twists coming a mile away. What saves this film is that it’s styled well, shot well and has enough chases and high-octane sequences to keep you interested.
One of the biggest problem areas is the acting — not a single person from the ensemble cast stands out. It’s all one-note, except for Neil Nitin Mukesh who is marginally better than the others. Special mention for Sonam Kapoor, who needs to start thinking about her laboured acting and stop thinking about her styling.
“Players” isn’t a great film, but it’s got enough going for it that you can watch it on a lazy weekend. Just don’t go out of your way for this one.
CAST : Abhishek Bachchan, bipasha basu, Sonam Kapoor
You cannot help but compare the last film of 2011 with the first film of 2012. Both have a lot in common — “Don 2″ and “Players” are both heist films, both borrow heavily from Hollywood movies and have their share of over-the-top cheesy moments. There is just one thing that sets “Players” apart — there’s a lot more action in this one.
Director duo Abbas-Mustan make sure there’s plenty to keep you on the edge of your seat, and even though the film drags on longer than it should, you are still not looking to bolt from the hall.
Borrowing from the premise of “The Italian Job”, “Players” tells the story of Charlie Fernandes (Abhishek Bachchan), who plans to rob gold bars worth billions of dollars while it is being transferred from one country to another by train.
He enlists the help of hardened criminal Victor Braganza (Vinod Khanna), who helps him put together a team of a hacker, illusionist, make-up artist and Riya (Bipasha Basu), Charlie’s trusted partner in earlier crimes.
They pull off the heist after an edge-of-the-seat sequence but that’s not quite the end of the story. I won’t reveal anymore because not everyone’s watched “The Italian Job”, but suffice it to say the directors add enough songs, comic tracks and corny dialogues to ensure they’ve “tailored” it to Indian tastes.
There are several plotholes, the acting is plain vanilla and you can see the myriad twists coming a mile away. What saves this film is that it’s styled well, shot well and has enough chases and high-octane sequences to keep you interested.
One of the biggest problem areas is the acting — not a single person from the ensemble cast stands out. It’s all one-note, except for Neil Nitin Mukesh who is marginally better than the others. Special mention for Sonam Kapoor, who needs to start thinking about her laboured acting and stop thinking about her styling.
“Players” isn’t a great film, but it’s got enough going for it that you can watch it on a lazy weekend. Just don’t go out of your way for this one.
Interview Of Ali Zafar
Interview Of Ali Zafar
From being a painter to a model to a musician to an actor, Pakistani pop superstar Ali Zafar has come a long way. Multitalented and versatile, Zafar, who hit the music scene in 2003 with his mega hit single “Channo”, is making waves in Bollywood where he has worked in three films so far — Tere Bin Laden, Mere Brother Ki Dulhan and the recently shot London,Paris, New York. The busy star talks to The Express Tribuneabout his latest endeavour, working in Bollywood and his future plans.
How would you compare working in India to working in Pakistan?
Well, India has a very sophisticated industry, with everything done on a professional level. We don’t have that kind of support and backing from our government. However, I’m currently in talks with people regarding the best ways to contribute to the growth and prosperity of Lollywood. People must realise that a lot of other industries are connected to the film industry and the growth of the latter will have a multiplier effect — one example is that more jobs and opportunities will open up as a more groomed film industry will require experts in make-up and fashion.
Any plans for Lollywood?
Well, the Pakistani film industry (as I like to call it rather than Lollywood) generally revolves around the same themes. As soon as they get away from the typical storylines, I’ll start considering it. To be honest, I don’t even fit the role of the fat-bellied gunda — a must character in local films.
What scenes are you uncomfortable with?
I’m generally very uncomfortable doing romantic scenes. It’s my personal conscience that sets the limits and I don’t venture beyond that. I’ve actually made it quite clear before as well that I won’t venture into kissing and love-making scenes.
You went on to work in films; another musician Fawad Khan is featuring in drama serials. Would you want to work in a Pakistani drama in the near future?
I’m really happy for Fawad Khan. To be honest, I always thought that this guy is so talented and is being underutilised. I still think that he should push his boundaries more and maybe work in Bollywood. He really is a powerhouse of talent. Right now, since I’m so tied up with film projects, I don’t have any plans to work on a television drama but let’s see, maybe in the future.
What do you miss the most while travelling?
These days, it’s winter season in Pakistan. I really miss sitting in my lawn and having oranges with my family. I love spending chilly evenings with my family.
Do you think music has taken a backseat for you?
Well, I just had a concert in Islamabad a couple of days back. Apart from that, I composed the music, wrote and sang a couple of songs for London, Paris, New York so I’m very much in touch with my musical side. For the time being, I’ll most probably continue to produce music through films; I think that’s the only way songs get heard these days.
These days, many new singers are openly declaring their political stance. Do you think that’s a good idea?
I’m actually quite happy that the youth is more aware now and that musicians are actively contributing in whatever way they can in raising awareness.
However, for me, I’m a musician first so I’d prefer to stay away from politics as much as possible. My main concern is producing quality music and I plan to stay focused on that for the time being.
What lies ahead? There were reports that you have signed a
Hollywood film?
Hollywood film?
Right now, I’m working on David Dhawan’s Chashme Buddoor — details of the character and film will be revealed in due time. Regarding the Hollywood film, it’s not confirmed as I haven’t signed it yet. There are certain things in the script that I have reservations with.
Published in The Express Tribune, January 5th, 2012.
2012: The impending apocalypse
2012: The impending apocalypse
While we’ve approached the first week of the New Year relatively unscathed, the bell still tolls for us as the supposed end of the world is just around the corner. Americans know all about it — Hollywood has been inundating us with countless films like Contagion depicting the inevitable end. It seems as if the US Department of State is using the medium of films to subliminally prepare audiences for the worst.
For everyone’s best interests, The Express Tribune compiled a list of all apocalyptic scenarios that may take place in the future.
VeEna-1 and MuFti-2 epidemic
In the aftermath of the Kolaveri Di virus, the Indians could invent a killer disease named VeEna-1 and release it into our water supply. Initially, the disease will only affect the female populace with mild symptoms. Victims will be prone to partial or full nudity and scandal. Eventually, the virus mutates into a new airborne strain MuFti-2 and attacks Pakistani men — resulting in alarming beard-growth and severe bigotry.
The sexes, unable to peacefully co-exist, will cannibalise one another.
The lawn revenge
After being used and abused, the tired lawn fabric will evolve small microbes that attach to the latest spring/summer collections and will target aunties over the age of 40. The younger lot will contract a fever that leaves them with a permanent distaste for lawn prints; they will be forced to opt for cotton in the summer only.
Hardcore lawn enthusiasts infected by the microbes will lose their mental faculties; their skin will break out into Mausummery prints and Mughal-inspired motifs. The infected will roam the streets looking like walking, talking lawn catalogues.
Melodic Dajjal
In 2012, Dajjal will make his presence known in the music industry pop. He will corrupt the music of Atif Aslam, Bilal Khan, Arif Lohar Sanam Marvi, Zeb and Haniya with cleverly disguised satanic messages which will cause spiritual malaise, angst and corruption over radio waves and on “Coke Studio”.
Yajooj Majooj craving coffee?
After an eternity of chaffing, dwelling in uncomfortably close quarters and licking salty walls, the fearsome Yajooj Majooj will enter from Khewra Salt Mines with a serious sweet-tooth. They will overcrowd Gloria Jeans, Espresso and Cinnabon, wreaking havoc, destruction and devour everything in sight.
Low sugar levels and a lack of places to socialise will result in a nation-wide depression and create a breeding ground for dissent, suicides, intense anger and the decay of civilisation.
Published in The Express Tribune, January 9th, 2012.
Tuesday, 3 January 2012
Sanjay Dutt to play a mad scientist role
Sanjay Dutt to play a mad scientist role
Director Nitish Roy is bringing together Sanjay Dutt and Bipasha Basu in a Hindi remake of Bengali film.
Titled Gehra Paani film will have Dutt play a mad scientist who creates a genetically evolved crocodile with individual intelligence but becomes a target of a gang of hunters wanting to capture the unique reptile for their lucrative business.
The film's producer Avik Bagchi reveals the actors are expected to shoot at a film city in the Maoist-infested Jungel mahal area of West Midnapore district, where a giant 100 foot long crocodile has been created using pyrotechnics and CGI. Buzz is the film will have lots of action and stunts most of which will be performed by Dutt and Basu.
source: timesofindia
Director Nitish Roy is bringing together Sanjay Dutt and Bipasha Basu in a Hindi remake of Bengali film.
Titled Gehra Paani film will have Dutt play a mad scientist who creates a genetically evolved crocodile with individual intelligence but becomes a target of a gang of hunters wanting to capture the unique reptile for their lucrative business.
The film's producer Avik Bagchi reveals the actors are expected to shoot at a film city in the Maoist-infested Jungel mahal area of West Midnapore district, where a giant 100 foot long crocodile has been created using pyrotechnics and CGI. Buzz is the film will have lots of action and stunts most of which will be performed by Dutt and Basu.
source: timesofindia
Ladies Vs Ricky Bahl (Movie Review)
Ladies Vs Ricky Bahl (Movie Review)
Cast: Ranveer Singh, Anushka Sharma, Parineeti Chopra, Aditi Sharma, Dipannita Sharma
Direction: Maneesh Sharma
Maneesh Sharma struck the marquee with the offbeat Band Baaja Baraat. Indeed, a yardstick that would be hard to measure up to. And yes, his second film doesn't really match the zing and the verve of the first one.
Firstly, there is no humour, no earthy flavour (remember the vows on the bread pakora), no tingling chemistry between the lead pair -- everything which made the first film such a winner. More importantly, Anushka has a role only post-interval and the first half is devoted to his exploits with the other three girls. He dupes Parineeti and Aditi by pretending he's in love with them, Dipannita by selling her a fake Hussain painting. And then tries to con Anushka by selling her useless land at an exorbitant price. But somewhere down the singing and dancing, the duo steal a kiss and seal a new relationship: Voila! it's love at first kiss. Unconvincing, isn't it?
What does work in favour of the film are its performances and its non-hysterical tenor. The girls are a spirited lot and Ranveer is, well Ranveer: your average Joe kind of hero who looks convincing enough as Sunny, Deven, Iqbal, Ricky, his sundry avatars. Music by Salim Sulaiman is ordinary. A word about Parineeti Chopra: cute.
Cast: Ranveer Singh, Anushka Sharma, Parineeti Chopra, Aditi Sharma, Dipannita Sharma
Direction: Maneesh Sharma
Maneesh Sharma struck the marquee with the offbeat Band Baaja Baraat. Indeed, a yardstick that would be hard to measure up to. And yes, his second film doesn't really match the zing and the verve of the first one.
Firstly, there is no humour, no earthy flavour (remember the vows on the bread pakora), no tingling chemistry between the lead pair -- everything which made the first film such a winner. More importantly, Anushka has a role only post-interval and the first half is devoted to his exploits with the other three girls. He dupes Parineeti and Aditi by pretending he's in love with them, Dipannita by selling her a fake Hussain painting. And then tries to con Anushka by selling her useless land at an exorbitant price. But somewhere down the singing and dancing, the duo steal a kiss and seal a new relationship: Voila! it's love at first kiss. Unconvincing, isn't it?
What does work in favour of the film are its performances and its non-hysterical tenor. The girls are a spirited lot and Ranveer is, well Ranveer: your average Joe kind of hero who looks convincing enough as Sunny, Deven, Iqbal, Ricky, his sundry avatars. Music by Salim Sulaiman is ordinary. A word about Parineeti Chopra: cute.
Sonam on Bipasha: There is no controversy
Sonam on Bipasha: There is no controversy
Though there havent been reports of any cat fights between female Players Bipasha Basu and Sonam Kapoor right through the making of the film, is the friendly banter continuing post the making as well? After all, it seems rather interesting that there hasn't been any controversy built around the two women even though less than a week remains for the film's release?
Laughs Sonam, 'I think when you consciously don't create any controversy, there would never be any. When you are confident and secure about yourself, you don't get into that space where you have to worry about what the other person is doing. Also, look at Bipasha; now she is someone who doesn't have to prove anything to anyone. She has worked with Abbas-Mustan earlier (Ajnabee, Race) and they also trust her to deliver goods. On the other hand for Players they were kind enough to give me a lead role so there was no question of me getting insecure of what I was doing.
This means that while with Bipasha she maintained a cordial relationship that ensured that the film's shoot passed through smoothly, when it came to buddies like Abhishek Bachchan and Sikander Kher, it was almost like being at home. 'I know them from my childhood and have grown up with them. I always had that comfort feel with them so it only made the entire movie making a fun experience indeed,' says Sonam.
Well, we hope audience too has as much fun when they catch the flick on 6th January.
Source: ARYNEWS
Though there havent been reports of any cat fights between female Players Bipasha Basu and Sonam Kapoor right through the making of the film, is the friendly banter continuing post the making as well? After all, it seems rather interesting that there hasn't been any controversy built around the two women even though less than a week remains for the film's release?
Laughs Sonam, 'I think when you consciously don't create any controversy, there would never be any. When you are confident and secure about yourself, you don't get into that space where you have to worry about what the other person is doing. Also, look at Bipasha; now she is someone who doesn't have to prove anything to anyone. She has worked with Abbas-Mustan earlier (Ajnabee, Race) and they also trust her to deliver goods. On the other hand for Players they were kind enough to give me a lead role so there was no question of me getting insecure of what I was doing.
This means that while with Bipasha she maintained a cordial relationship that ensured that the film's shoot passed through smoothly, when it came to buddies like Abhishek Bachchan and Sikander Kher, it was almost like being at home. 'I know them from my childhood and have grown up with them. I always had that comfort feel with them so it only made the entire movie making a fun experience indeed,' says Sonam.
Well, we hope audience too has as much fun when they catch the flick on 6th January.
Source: ARYNEWS
Don 2 (Movie Review)
Don 2 is a classic action/crime thriller that doesn't let go, even for a moment. More importantly, the plot has been finely crafted, with every twist and turn falling into place like a complicated albeit neat little jigsaw. With a canvas that goes on a cross-country ride -- Thailand, Malaysia, Zurich, Berlin -- the film challenges you to hop aboard its high speed scuttle and attentively follow the exploits of its glamorous gangster. One who oscillates between two avatars -- Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise in Mission Impossible) and James Bond -- without losing out on his desi charisma.
The high point of the film is Shah Rukh's delineation of the character of the Don. The actor interprets him as an arrogant, agile, wicked and wild dare-devil who has the most bizarre schemes up his sleeves. But that's not all. He also has the chutzpah to carry them through. Taking off from the climax of the first film, the gangster resurfaces in Thailand after a suitable time span, creates mayhem and then, in an unprecedented and inexplicable move, surrenders before his old enemies (cop Roma), only to be sent to a Malaysian prison. Get ready for a breath taking prison-break sequence, where our maverick escapes with another old foe, Vardhan ( Boman Irani). The rest of the film is essentially the execution of a meticulous plan where the duo chooses to rob the Germans of their currency plates. Easier said than done, but with the devious Don, rest assured, no mission is an impossible mission. Shah Rukh remains in command and never loses his foothold, neither through the dramatic sequences nor through the action cuts. But of course, didn't we know the actor always loved playing wicked despite his romantic hero image. Remember Darr and Baazigar, two of his unforgettable films?
Action is the other alluring selling point of Farhan Akhtar's film. The chases, the fights, the demolition, destruction, break-ins, escapes have all been done with a finesse that rivals the best of Hollywood. Watch the car chase between Priyanka and Shah Rukh and you'll get the point. It's not only high voltage that drips with passion which makes it seem almost like foreplay. The other notable sequences include the heist, the escape and Shah Rukh's larger-than-life leap from a high-rise while his assassin wrings his hands in dismay.
The film does lack a bit on the emotional quotient and human relationships are hardly given a chance to grow. But just when you think it's all sound and fury, there's a sensuous tango between Roma and the Don as the cop opts to help the gangster she once loved and the gangster is determined to save his junglee billi (wild cat), any which way. A word about the dialogues: brilliant. A word about the music: mediocre (Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy).
Courtesy Times of India
The high point of the film is Shah Rukh's delineation of the character of the Don. The actor interprets him as an arrogant, agile, wicked and wild dare-devil who has the most bizarre schemes up his sleeves. But that's not all. He also has the chutzpah to carry them through. Taking off from the climax of the first film, the gangster resurfaces in Thailand after a suitable time span, creates mayhem and then, in an unprecedented and inexplicable move, surrenders before his old enemies (cop Roma), only to be sent to a Malaysian prison. Get ready for a breath taking prison-break sequence, where our maverick escapes with another old foe, Vardhan ( Boman Irani). The rest of the film is essentially the execution of a meticulous plan where the duo chooses to rob the Germans of their currency plates. Easier said than done, but with the devious Don, rest assured, no mission is an impossible mission. Shah Rukh remains in command and never loses his foothold, neither through the dramatic sequences nor through the action cuts. But of course, didn't we know the actor always loved playing wicked despite his romantic hero image. Remember Darr and Baazigar, two of his unforgettable films?
Action is the other alluring selling point of Farhan Akhtar's film. The chases, the fights, the demolition, destruction, break-ins, escapes have all been done with a finesse that rivals the best of Hollywood. Watch the car chase between Priyanka and Shah Rukh and you'll get the point. It's not only high voltage that drips with passion which makes it seem almost like foreplay. The other notable sequences include the heist, the escape and Shah Rukh's larger-than-life leap from a high-rise while his assassin wrings his hands in dismay.
The film does lack a bit on the emotional quotient and human relationships are hardly given a chance to grow. But just when you think it's all sound and fury, there's a sensuous tango between Roma and the Don as the cop opts to help the gangster she once loved and the gangster is determined to save his junglee billi (wild cat), any which way. A word about the dialogues: brilliant. A word about the music: mediocre (Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy).
Courtesy Times of India
Bollywood biggest gossips of 2011
Bollywood biggest gossips of 2011
From careless whispers to rumoured stories, from gossip kings and queens to the chatterati, Bollywood's pretty people remained busy through out the year making stories and then featuring in them.
Top of the heap of the biggest and juiciest Bollywood gossip was the budding closeness between Don Shah Rukh Khan and his lady Priyanka Chopra. This hush-hush piece of gossip managed to miff many.
Chinese whispers did the round that Priyanka got an icy cold welcome at SRK's Eid party at his Bandra home on August 31. Everyone, from the hostess Gauri Khan to her close friends, was believed to have ignored Priyanka when she showed up.
With a long term relationship behind him, John Abraham seemed to have spent no time in jumping off to another relationship. It is believed that John and his current banker girlfriend Priya Runchal were rather serious about each other and have been looking at making things official in April 2012.
After keeping things rather secret for eight long years, lovebirds Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia D'Souza finally got engaged in 2011. The couple would tie the knot in February 2012.
February, it seems, is an auspicious and heavy month for Bollywood weddings. Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor were also believed to be looking at a February wedding. To make most of the humungous curiosity of their fans and the media in this event, Saif would be releasing his home production Agent Vinod in the same month.
While some have been making it official, other Bollywood couples were still rather discreet about their love stories. Actor Sonam Kapoor and director Punit Malhotra have reportedly been a couple behind the cameras.
Same implies with actress Vidya Balan and her beau Siddharth Roy Kapoor. The Dirty Picture actress has been seeing the CEO of UTV Motion Pictures for sometime now, but the two have been keeping their personal life personal.
It is believed that Sonakshi Sinha's increasing waistline cost her an item number in Shirish Kunder's Joker. Reportedly, the actress has been on a green tea and biscuit only diet to shed those extra kilos. The item number that was originally designed for Sonakshi would now feature Chitrangada Singh.
And ladies' man Ricky Bahl aka Ranveer Singh's growing proximity to Sonakshi irked his reported girlfriend Anushka Sharma. It is believed that thanks to Ranveer's womanising ways, the Band Baaja Baraat couple now seems to be history.
Source: http://www.arynews.tv/english/entnewsdetail.asp?cat=4
From careless whispers to rumoured stories, from gossip kings and queens to the chatterati, Bollywood's pretty people remained busy through out the year making stories and then featuring in them.
Top of the heap of the biggest and juiciest Bollywood gossip was the budding closeness between Don Shah Rukh Khan and his lady Priyanka Chopra. This hush-hush piece of gossip managed to miff many.
Chinese whispers did the round that Priyanka got an icy cold welcome at SRK's Eid party at his Bandra home on August 31. Everyone, from the hostess Gauri Khan to her close friends, was believed to have ignored Priyanka when she showed up.
With a long term relationship behind him, John Abraham seemed to have spent no time in jumping off to another relationship. It is believed that John and his current banker girlfriend Priya Runchal were rather serious about each other and have been looking at making things official in April 2012.
After keeping things rather secret for eight long years, lovebirds Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia D'Souza finally got engaged in 2011. The couple would tie the knot in February 2012.
February, it seems, is an auspicious and heavy month for Bollywood weddings. Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor were also believed to be looking at a February wedding. To make most of the humungous curiosity of their fans and the media in this event, Saif would be releasing his home production Agent Vinod in the same month.
While some have been making it official, other Bollywood couples were still rather discreet about their love stories. Actor Sonam Kapoor and director Punit Malhotra have reportedly been a couple behind the cameras.
Same implies with actress Vidya Balan and her beau Siddharth Roy Kapoor. The Dirty Picture actress has been seeing the CEO of UTV Motion Pictures for sometime now, but the two have been keeping their personal life personal.
It is believed that Sonakshi Sinha's increasing waistline cost her an item number in Shirish Kunder's Joker. Reportedly, the actress has been on a green tea and biscuit only diet to shed those extra kilos. The item number that was originally designed for Sonakshi would now feature Chitrangada Singh.
And ladies' man Ricky Bahl aka Ranveer Singh's growing proximity to Sonakshi irked his reported girlfriend Anushka Sharma. It is believed that thanks to Ranveer's womanising ways, the Band Baaja Baraat couple now seems to be history.
Source: http://www.arynews.tv/english/entnewsdetail.asp?cat=4
2012 Bollywood movies: Get set for comedy, thrillers
2012 Bollywood movies: Get set for comedy, thrillers
Horror/thriller genre prevails.
The first big release of the year 2012 is Abbas-Mustan’s multi-starrer, action-thriller Players, starring Abhishek Bachchan, Sonam Kapoor, Bipasha Basu, Neil Nitin Mukesh and Bobby Deol.
This will be followed by horror film Ghost, which marks the comeback of actor Shiney Ahuja.
Audiences would be introduced this year to a new genre of zombie-comedy with Ekta Kapoor’s Rock The Shaadi, starring Abhay Deol. Those looking for thrills and action wouldn’t be disappointed either. After a bold performance in The Dirty Picture, Vidya Balan will return with the thriller Kahaani, a story of a pregnant woman in search of her missing husband.
Salman Khan will once again attempt to strike gold with Kabir Khan’s romantic thriller Ek Tha Tiger. Rockstar Ranbir Kapoor’s next big release Barfee, will see him playing a deaf individual, while Priyanka Chopra will portray a mentally challenged girl.
Karan Johar’s back
This year will see two Karan Johar flicks — Agneepath and Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu — hitting theatres. A remake of the 1990 film, Agneepathsees Hrithik Roshan stepping into the shoes of Amitabh Bachchan as Vijay Dinanath Chauhan alongside Sanjay Dutt who plays baddie Kancha Cheena. Set for a January 26 Republic Day release, it also features Priyanka Chopra. Romantic comedy Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu, starring Imran Khan and Kareena Kapoor, will release in February.
Laughs on the way
The new year will be high on comedy with Akshaye Khanna’s Gali Gali Chor Hai, Riteish Deshmukh-Genelia D’Souza-starrer Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya, Bipasha-Madhavan’s Jodi Breakers, Sajid Khan’sHousefull 2, Sachin Yardi’s Kyaa Super Kool Hain Hum, Sameer Sharma’s Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana and Rohit Shettty’s Bol Bachchan.
Vishal Bhardwaj’s comedy Matru Ki Bijli Ka Mandola, set in a rustic Rajasthani backdrop, starring Imran Khan and Anushka Sharma is slated for release later in 2012. Actor Sonakshi Sinha once again hopes to make it big with Joker, Son of Sardar, Dabangg 2 and Lootera.
Comeback queens
Sridevi returns to the big screen after 15 years with Gauri Shinde’sEnglish Vinglish and Karisma Kapoor makes her comeback with Vikram Bhatt’s horror film Dangerous Ishq.
Published in The Express Tribune, January 3rd, 2012.
Monday, 2 January 2012
Strings rock India
Strings rock India
Live performances have always been Pakistani pop rock band Strings’ forte. The latest one was a Times of IndiaMumbai Mirror concert at the Bandra Fort, a beautiful open amphitheatre with a crowd attendance of approximately 2,000. Since the concert was especially organised for the youth, the venue saw throngs of youngsters coming in for some quality pop-rock music.
It surely was a star-studded event. And, interestingly, majority of them showed up for Strings as their gesture of friendship and appreciation for the band. The celebrities spotted at the venue included Bollywood actor Imran Khan accompanied by wife Avantika, directors Sanjay Gupta (with wife Anu) and Rohan Sippy, actors Aditi Rao (starring in the lead role of London Paris New Yorkwith Ali Zafar), Yana Gupta, Rohit Roy with wife Maansi, Amol Gupte, popular Vjs Cyrus Sahukar and Mini Mathur among others.
Strings performed their famous anthems such “Dhaani”, “Koi Aanay Wala Hai”, “Mera Bicchra Yar”, “Chaaye Chaaye”, “Anjane”, “Sohniye”, “Najan Kyun”, “Duur” and others. The band engaged with the audience and called a few people from the audience on-stage.
During their stay in India, Strings also performed in Bangalore before flying to Dubai. The Express Tribune also spoke to the band regarding their concert experience, new singles and future plans.
How was the experience of performing in Mumbai yet again?
Faisal Kapadia: We’ve been going to Mumbai quite frequently. Whenever we visit India, the first city we land in is Mumbai. We’ve got a lot of friends and fans there and it’s always a pleasure performing there.
How did you find the Mumbai crowd?
Kapadia: The crowd was electric. The venue was jam-packed as you can witness from the videos and pictures. What else could an artist ask for? It was a charged-up two-hour set where the crowd was simply amazing.
Are you also a proponent of the notion that it’s better to release singles than a full-fledged album in recent times?
Kapadia: One has to realise that the medium of music has been going through a change. If you look 20 years back, we used to have cassettes which were replaced by CDs and now, it’s the age of digital medium. The striking aspect of this medium is that one is charged per individual units. A cassette or CD would cost you the same amount whether a single song is recorded or a dozen. Hence, the concept of single was uncommon then.
Currently, the digital medium has completely transformed. Especially networks like iTunes offer you a single as well as complete album at different rates. But, of course, it’s not applicable in Pakistan because people here have the knack of downloading music for free. So, today is the age of singles. It’s a smart move to release a single periodically.
When are you releasing your new songs?
Kapadia: We’ve recorded a few songs and trust me, if we sit down in the studio for a month, we would be able to come out with a new album. Since we’re very much consumed in tours we are not getting time for it.
Where are you travelling and performing in future?
Kapadia: We recently performed in Bangalore and our next stop is Dubai for a live gig.
Is performing in Pakistan on your agenda anytime soon?
Kapadia: We have a big Pakistan tour coming up and we plan to perform in ten cities like Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Hyderabad and Gujranwala.
Published in The Express Tribune, January 2nd, 2012.
