First Time News (Entertainment)

Riteish-Genelia to star in Masti 2?

2012-02-13T03:20:00.000-08:00

MUMBAI: A few days ago, they had a grand wedding. And if things go well, the Masti (2004) sequel is likely to become Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia D’Souza’s first project together after their nuptials. Industry insiders inform that producers Indra Kumar and Ashok Thakeria are already in talks with Genelia to work in the sequel opposite Riteish.

“It’s not surprising if they want to sign Genelia opposite Riteish. After all, both the actors starred together in the original too. And now, since they are married, it will only help the franchise. If Genelia is roped in, she will be the only female actor to be repeated from part one,” says a trade source. When contacted, Indra Kumar doesn’t deny the casting outright. “Let’s see how things go. We are still working on the story/screenplay. Once it’s finalised, we will start talking to other actors. It’s too early to comment. I am not saying anything right now.”

But the filmmaker confirms that the film is going on floors in May. “All the boys – Vivek Oberoi, Aftab Shivdasani and Riteish Deshmukh – will be in part two also, but we are yet to finalise rest of the cast,” he says. Riteish and Genelia will soon be seen in Mandeep Kumar’s Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya (TNLHG). The duo – who started off their career together with Tujhe Meri Kasam (2003) – last shared screen space in Masti.

After getting married a week ago in a traditional Maharashtrian-style wedding, Riteish and Genelia have been busy with the promotions of TNLHG, which releases on February 24.Immediately after their wedding, both were seen together at the Celebrity Cricket League. While Riteish was playing for the Mumbai Heroes, Genelia was present on the sidelines to boost the team’s morale. Riteish had said that the couple would only think of going on a honeymoon after March.

Delhi chill grips Mallika Sherawat

2012-02-11T03:50:00.000-08:00

NEW DELHI: The chilly winds in the capital ended up leaving actor Mallika Sherawat under the weather. She was shooting for her upcoming film Kismat Love Paisa Dilli here. Mallika happened to shoot from 7 p.m. to the next morning recently -- and ended up falling ill. Producer Krishan Chaudhary came to her rescue as he called out for his family doctor to check on her, says a source. Chaudhary has teamed up with Amit Chandra to produce the film.

Chaudhary also planned to cancel the shoot for Mallika's sake, but the actor insisted on continuing with it. She told the producer that she felt better after seeing the doctor, and carried on with the shoot, which finished on time thanks to her dedication.

Kismat Love Paisa Dilli, directed by Sanjay Khanduri, also features Vivek Oberoi.

Bollywood beauties turn item girls

2012-02-10T03:47:00.000-08:00

NEW DELHI: Item song queens Mallika Sherawat, Malaika Arora Khan, Yaana Gupta and Rakhi Sawant, kindly step aside as a host of leading Bollywood ladies are stepping into your domain with their first item songs in the coming months. From Ooh La La’s ‘boombat’ Vidya Balan to the arty Chitrangda Singh, watch out for these actors who are all set to be the next big item queen.

Chitrangda Singh
Film: Joker

Actor Chitrangda Singh, 35, will be flaunting her curves in a tiny red choli and green sari wearing a traditional Maharashtrian nath in her first item song titled Kaafirana in Akshay Kumar-Sonakshi Sinha starrer Joker. Talking about the same, she said, “I love dancing. It was so much fun and hard work working on Kaafirana. My choreographer, Farah Khan, said that she’s gifting me my Munni.”

Karisma Kapur
Film: Rowdy Rathore

If reports are to be believed, actor Karisma Kapur, 37, will be performing an item song in filmmaker Prabhudeva’s film Rowdy Rathore. The song, reportedly to be filmed in the villain’s den, will be choreographed by Prabhudeva.

According to the sources, final talks about the song are on with Karisma, who is making her comeback in Bollywood with filmmaker Vikram Bhatt’s Dangerous Ishq after a hiatus of almost six years.

Vidya Balan
Film: Ferrari Ki Sawaari

Though she has been in the industry since 2005 but this is the first time that actor Vidya Balan will be doing an item song.

The 34-year-old actor will be giving competition to actor Katrina’s Kaif’s lavani act in Agneepath’s Chikni Chameli as Vidya’s item song in Ferrari Ki Sawaari will also be in lavani style. However, if sources are to be believed, the item song featuring Ooh La La girl will be more aesthetic and less sexy than Kaif’s item dance.

Geeta Basra
Film: Zilla Ghaziabad

Actor Geeta Basra, who’s more in news due to her rumoured relationship with Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh instead of her acting skills, will be seeing in a rustic number titled Ghaziabad Ki Rani Hoon Main in Zilla Ghaziabad. Geeta, 27, said, “The song has loads of latkas and jhatkas. I always wanted to do a full-on item song and I’m glad that finally I got this amazing opportunity through this great song.”

Bipasha Basu loses sleep over Raaz 3

2012-02-09T02:52:00.000-08:00

MUMBAI: Bipasha Basu has become a ‘sleepless’ beauty. Ever since the actor started shooting for Vikram Bhatt’s Raaz 3 with Emraan Hashmi, she hasn’t had any time for rest, due to a continuous shooting schedule for the 3D film. Until a few days ago, she was down with a viral fever and conjunctivitis, so she couldn’t fulfill her professional commitments (including media interviews) for almost a week. As a result, all the film shoots — including Raaz 3 — were on hold.

“All her projects had to be shifted. And once she started work a few days later, she had to push hard to clear all the backlog by working continuously for a couple of days,” says an insider close to Bipasha.

The actor confirms her chaotic schedule, saying, “Raaz 3, besides being a fantastic 3D horror film, is also an emotionally-taxing drama. In fact, for a couple of days, I hardly slept at all because of the workload. But I am enjoying the experience because it’s a new thrill to work on 3D.”

Interestingly, thanks to her choc-a-bloc shooting schedule, Bipasha couldn’t even go and receive NDTV’s ‘Fittest Bollywood Celebrity’ award personally. The actor had to be content with a video call from the sets of Raaz 3 at Panvel.

“I just didn’t have the time to make it,” she rues, adding, “But, it’s a great achievement especially since I have been awarded for my passion, fitness, rather than professional reasons. It’s fantastic if they believe that I am championing the cause of health and fitness among my fraternity.” The actor’s next release, Jodi Breakers, will hit theatres soon, and she’s confident the year is shaping up well: “2012 looks great. I am confident that people will appreciate my part in it (Jodi Breakers).”

Ileana D’Cruz delays Barfi!’s shooting

2012-02-07T02:44:00.000-08:00

NEW DELHI: Barfi!’s shooting stint surely hasn’t left a sweet aftertaste in the makers’ palate. In the latest twist, the team was left to dismantle a set at Film City that was built to shoot a few sequences with Ileana D’Cruz. The reason being south actor’s illness, following a severe bout of food poisoning.

“A set was erected, but since she cancelled the last two days of the schedule, it had to be dismantled since we didn’t have further permission at the venue. Once Ileana is fine, she will inform us and we will build it again. Fortunately, it wasn’t a very costly set, so we haven’t been set back by a huge sum,” reveals a unit insider.

Apparently, since Ileana doesn’t have a place in Mumbai, the production house UTV Motion Pictures had made arrangements for her in the city but she chose to recuperate in Hyderabad.

However, once she recovers, the actor is expected to give a few extra days for Barfi! in the next schedule. “Anurag (Basu; director) isn’t worried because he can make it up,” says the insider.

When contacted, the actor’s spokesperson, Payal, confirms: “Yes, Ileana has been down with stomach infection, so she had to cancel the shoot for Barfi!. In fact, her ill heath has affected other projects too. She is in Hyderabad right now, but couldn’t shoot for Trivirkam, Allu Arjun’s (Telugu) film on the first day of its shoot.”

Barfi!, which also stars Priyanka Chopra and Ranbir Kapoor, has apparently been delayed by a few month due to difficulties in finding a suitable dates between the lead pair.

Aamir is the maestro of film industry: Kareena

2012-02-06T02:47:00.001-08:00

MUMBAI: Kareena Kapoor, who has earlier worked with Aamir Khan and will now be seen with his nephew Imran Khan in Ek Main Aur Ek Tu, feels Aamir is the maestro of the film industry. "Aamir's body of work is unbelievable. He is the maestro of the industry and Imran is just starting out. Working with Imran is a lot of fun. I think he is a marvellous actor and I hope we get to work together in the future too," the 31-year-old actress said.

Kareena, who is ready with her next two films Ek Main Aur EK Tu and Agent Vinod is, however, missing from the promotions of the latter movie.

She said her priority was Ek Main Aur Ek Tu at the moment.

"Right now Ek Main Aur Ek Tu is in the priority. Agent Vinod is like an action thriller and you know... let Saif do the talking and I think he has been out for the media for a while. You enjoy him for a while and may be I will step in before the film releases," she said.

Lisa Haydon's sis is Saif’s new item girl

2012-02-04T03:05:00.000-08:00

MUMBAI: At 19, she featured in a Pepsi commercial with cricketing legends like Shane Warne and Sachin Tendulkar. But soon, Malika Haydon moved to Sydney, Australia for further studies and gradually ended up working in the accounts section of an Australian company. But seven years later, the 27-year-old is back home to explore a new territory.

Malika will make her Bollywood debut with an item number titled I’ll Do The Talking in Saif Ali Khan’s Agent Vinod. For the uninitiated, her younger sibling Lisa has already featured in a couple of films such as Aisha (2010) and Rascals (2011). But Agent Vinod makers say they haven’t roped in Malika because she is “someone’s sister.”

“For us, freshness was an important factor. And since no one has seen Malika around much, it worked for us. And let me clarify, we haven’t signed her just because she is Lisa’s sister. She simply fit the profile we were looking for. And she has done a fantastic job,” says the film’s co-producer and Saif’s business partner, Dinesh Vijan, adding that the song was shot at a club in Russia.

“The pre-requisites that an Agent Vinod girl should be stunning and absolutely gorgeous weren’t enough for the track. The idea was to have a mainstay who could really hold it together and drive the song. We searched, short-listed and it wasn’t really rocket science when we found Malika,” he says.

Besides the item number, Malika will also feature in the 2012 edition of the Kingfisher Calendar. In the past, the half-Indian, half-Australian model has worked with designers like Tarun Tahiliani and Rohit Bal, besides doing fashion shows for hairdressers Toni & Guy and Brazilian designer Jatali.

According to Vijan, there’s also a storyline attached to the song. “For the time being, let it be suspense. Agent Vinod has a lot of characters. And all of them have very unique looks. So, when it came to choosing a girl for the dance number, Malika impressed us due to the same factor – uniqueness. Her USP is that she has an international face but carries an Indian attitude too,” he says.

Agent Vinod’s franchise?
Agent Vinod is on its way to hit silver screens. But even before Saif Ali Khan’s spy flick releases in March, talks of it becoming a franchise have already started doing the rounds. But Saif is not in a hurry. “Certainly, it’s on my mind. But rather than getting ahead of ourselves, I would like to wait. A lot of people talk about the franchise before even considering the success of the first film. I feel that it should be born out of public demand,” says the actor, adding that a franchise would depend if “it goes down well and people like it.”

And to make sure audiences like his spy outing, Saif has followed, what he calls a “slightly more real approach” than the old Agent Vinod. “It’s substantially different. We have a lot of respect for the old one. In fact, we have done a little homage in a couple of sequences either by mentioning characters or having similar names. We have, for once, considered a similar plot but ultimately, we have followed a slightly more real approach with a more realistic global problem,” he says.

Sanjay Dutt to get into shape for RGV's next

2012-02-03T03:10:00.001-08:00

MUMBAI: After Department, Ram Gopal Varma is planning another project, inspired by Steven Spielberg's Munich, with Sanjay Dutt and says the actor is "our last action hero" and that he wants to "cast him as a one-man army on a global mission."

The role model for the film is Eric Bana in Munich and Sanjay will pump up the iron to get into a sinewy shape to shoot for the espionage thriller. Confirming the ambitious Rs.90 crore project, Varma said: "Yes, Sanjay Dutt and I are doing another film right after Department. I truly believe he is our last action hero. So I am going to cast him as a one-man army on a global mission. 'Munich' is the film I've in mind."

"But it would be not just a cerebral thriller. I want Sanjay Dutt doing a lot of daring action. You see, in Department, he plays a plain clothed cop who has to blend with the crowds. So there's little room for heroics. I want to pump up the action level dangerously in our next film. So it would be Munich meets Rambo."Sanjay seems very excited about the film."Yes, Ramu and I have discussed the project we're doing next. It's very exciting."

The film will go on the floors later this year.

Kangana replaces Vidya in Shootout At Wadala

2012-02-02T03:12:00.000-08:00

MUMBAI: After the sucess of The Dirty Picture, there were rounds of speculations that Balaji Motion Picture’s favourite, Vidya Balan will be playing the romantic lead opposite John Abraham in Sanjay Gupta’s multi-starrer Shootout At Wadala. But in a sudden twist of events, Balaji has reverted to its original choice, Kangana Ranaut, who last worked for the production house in Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai (2011). An industry insider reveals, “When Balaji spoke to Kangana about the film, she agreed immediately because she has the highest regard for the company.” This is the first time that John and Kangana will be seen opposite each other on the big screen.

Tanuj Garg, CEO of Balaji Motion Pictures, confirms the news, “Yes, Kangana has been approached. The film is becoming bigger each passing day.”Apparently, director Sanjay Gupta’s first choice was Vidya. “The role is not of a glam doll, or about doing item songs. It’s a very serious role based on a non-fictional character,” says Gupta, adding, “I had written keeping Vidya in mind, but post The Dirty Picture, her priorities have changed, which I completely respect and admire. After Vidya, the obvious first choice was Kangana”

Sanjay believes that Kangana also has a huge potential as an actor. “She is someone whom I have seen growing from film to film. I feel that the films she did, couldn’t do justice to her role. She is not just a glam doll but also a powerhouse performer,” says Sanjay, adding, “I am glad that even if I am working with her for the first time, I am going to her with a character that has a huge scope of performance and not just song and dance.”

Giving a sneak peek of Kangana’s character, he says, “It’s very reminiscent of the roles that Smita Patil played in Shakti (1982) and Namak Halal (1982). Her characters were glamorous, yet very subdued and underplayed. This role is in that kind of space. It’s a very tough one.” Besides John, Anil Kapoor and Tusshar have also been confirmed in pivotal roles in the film. A host of other names are being considered for the mega project, which is expected to go on floors in March and release in December.

Angela, Amy set for item outing?

2012-02-02T03:11:00.000-08:00

MUMBAI: Even though they are yet to hit Bollywood’s silver screen, actors Angela Jonsson and Amy Jackson have already created some buzz in tinsel-town. And the latest news is that they both have been short listed for a nautanki-style item number in the Irrfan Khan-starrer, Paan Singh Tomar.

“Angela and Amy are the frontrunners. They will be approached separately by UTV (producers) and depending on the negotiations, one of them will be finalised. Who fits the bill in terms of the song as well as the pricing, remains to be seen,” says an insider from the production house.

For the uninitiated, Angela — also known as Ranbir Kapoor’s ex-flame — has inked an exclusive deal with Salman Khan’s home production, besides another contract with producer Sajid Nadiadwala.

The Kingfisher Calendar model is expected to star opposite Salman in Sher Khan and Kick. British model Amy, on her part, is believed to be in a relationship with her Ekk Deewana Tha co-star Prateik.Apparently, the makers of the Tigmanshu Dhulia directorial are looking for a specific dance number because the film is relatively serious in nature. “Regardless of who does the song (Angela or Amy) Irrfan being part of it is unlikely. But things will be finalised in about a week’s time,” adds the insider.

When contacted, Shikha Kapur, senior vice president, UTV Motion Pictures doesn’t deny the news. She says, “Right now, we are planning what to do. A music video is an option, but it’s too early to reveal anything on the subject.”

Produced by UTV Motion Pictures, Paan Singh Tomar is based on the true story of a runner, who turns into a rebel. To release on March 2, besides Irrfan as Paan Singh Tomar, the film also stars Mahie Gill and Vipin Sharma of Sahib Biwi Aur Gangster (2011) fame.

Kareena Kapoor talks about marriage and films

2012-02-02T03:10:00.000-08:00

MUMBAI: Kareena Kapoor has three films with three Khans coming up over the next five months -Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu with Imran on February 10, Agent Vinod opposite Saif on March 23 and Talaash co-starring Aamir on June 10.

Quiz her on her favourite Khan and she says, “I am a huge Aamir fan and it’s an honour doing back-to-back movies with him. Imran was the biggest reason for doing Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu, he’s a cool guy who, even after seven films, still looks so natural and fresh on screen. I share amazing chemistry with both these Khans, but I know that I’ll make the best ‘jodi’ (pair) with Saif in 2012.”

Agent Vinod has taken its time coming but, she points out, it’s a big-budget action movie. “We’ve finally locked on a release date. The reactions to the first poster and promo have been overwhelming,” she smiles, adding, “Saif and I look great together, I know Agent Vinod will be the film for us." Post its release, Saif and she are supposed to announce their marriage date.

A jeweller in Rajkot claims he’s got an order for a Rs. 40 lakh royal necklace for her. Kareena retorts, “From India to Pakistan to Los Angeles, everyone’s planning our wedding. It’s discussed more than the Lok Pal Bill. Imran’s the only co-star who hasn’t asked me when I’m getting married. I respect him for that, and wish others wouldn’t too. When two people are in love, it’s obvious that they’ll take the relationship forward when they think the time is right.”

Right now, she says, both their energies are focused on ensuring the best launch for their movie: “After that we’ll decide what to tell the world. I understand everyone is curious but it’s our choice. They should respect that.”

In her Valentine’s Day release, Kareena and Imran get married in a drunken stupour. “Most films end with a marriage, Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu starts with one, even though my character, Riana Braganza, is not interested in getting married. She’s lost her job, is alone in Vegas, but she’s no ‘bechari’ (damsel-in-distress). Rather she’s a sunshine girl like me,” says Kareena. “Only I’m far more conservative when it comes to marriage and I will do it right.”

Soha hasn’t told us

According to a recent press report, Saif’s younger sister, Soha Ali Khan, and her steady date Kunal Khemu are getting engaged this year. The news was apparently confirmed by a ‘source’ close to the couple. Prod Kareena on the subject and she says, “I would really like to meet these ‘sources’. I have no idea about an engagement. Soha hasn’t mentioned anything to Saif or me.”

Anil Kapoor to shoot for adult literacy

2012-02-01T03:11:00.000-08:00

MUMBAI: Actor-producer Anil Kapoor is extremely elated to receive an award at the Screen Actors’ Guild Awards, held in Los Angeles, USA, on Sunday evening. “I didn’t expect this, but it’s a great honour for me. I’m probably the only Indian here who has got an award. It’s one of the biggest accolades for an actor, and I’m honoured and blessed to receive my trophy,” he gushes on the phone line from LA.

“I didn’t know how I’d be able to attend the do because my schedule was really tight. I had a couple of engagements in Mumbai, and without completing them, I couldn’t have taken the flight out. But it’s all been worth it.”

The actor was to take the flight to LA on Thursday and reach on Friday. But he postponed his trip by two days as he had committed to shoot a film on adult literacy at Film City, Goregaon, on Saturday afternoon.

The film is a public interest project, helmed by director-actor-producer Farhan Akhtar. It also features actors Shabana Azmi, Shah Rukh Khan, Kareena Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra along with Anil.

Scriptwriter-lyricist, and Farhan’s father, Javed Akhtar, has written the lyrics for the video. Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy have composed the track, which has been rendered by singers Alka Yagnik and Sonu Nigam. The film has just been completed and will be aired shortly on leading channels across all genres.

“It was a noble cause for which Farhan and his team had spoken to me. I felt it was a gracious way to give back to society. We’re trying to spread an important message about adult literacy through the video,” says Anil.

“Today, if we want our next generation to be educated, we have to ensure that adults understand the meaning and importance of literacy. They must value education and strive to get their kids into schools as early as possible. As celebrities or public figures, we have to make our efforts to help the society. It’s a touching video that will connect with viewers from every age group and demographic. Javed saab’s words are magical too.”

Imran Khan captures Kareena Kapoor

2012-02-01T03:10:00.000-08:00

MUMBAI: It’s official. Imran Khan is set to hold an exhibition of Kareena Kapoor’s candid photographs on February 3. While the venue is yet to be decided, it is expected to be one of the art galleries in Bandra. Currently, Khan is sifting through around 60 photographs to zero in on the final 20.

For the uninitiated, Imran who has always called himself a huge Kareena Kapoor fan clicked pictures of Bebo while working together on Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu. Imran feels that Kareena’s natural beauty brought out the best in his photographs.

“I think Kareena is simply gorgeous. Sometimes, I feel she has inspired me to become a good photographer,” says Imran with a laugh.

Interestingly, the Delhi Belly (2011) actor clicked all the random photographs on his mobile phone. But some of them came out really well.

“I feel I have clicked some very nice pictures of hers. When Karan saw them, he thought it will be a good idea to have an exhibition of the photographs,” says the actor.

At the moment, Imran is touring Dubai, New York and London to promote his new film.

“Once he is back in town, he is expected to decide on the final pictures and venue for the exhibition. Kareena will, of course, be present besides his close friends and family members,” says a team member from Imran’s entourage.

Imran, on his part, has been paired with Bebo for the first time in his career in director Shakun Batra’s maiden venture.

Kareena, however, has worked with his mamu Aamir Khan on 3 Idiots (2009) and the upcoming Talaash, which releases on on June 1.

I’ll never dance at a wedding: Kareena Kapoor

2012-02-01T03:08:00.001-08:00

MUMBAI: Last week, Kareena Kapoor sizzled on stage at two award functions after missing the first three shows of the awards season. “I was away on a vacation with Saif (beau Saif Ali Khan) so I missed them. But once I came back from Europe, I was game for some live performances. I like to dance and make some money,” she says with a smile.

At the Apsara Awards, Kareena flagged off her act with Akon’s Chamak challo… from RA.One (2011), even retaining the sexy red sari and the nose-ring.

The sari changed colours, from red to black to gold, but the nose-ring stayed in place as the Bollywood star moved into Ringa ringa ree…, the Telugu song from Allu Arjun’s Arya 2 (2009) that had inspired the Salman Khan-Asin’s Ready (2011) chartbuster, Dhinka chika….

She then got dirty with Nakka mukka… from Nakul-Sunanina Tamil hit, Kadhalil Vizhunthen (2008), before rounding up the evening’s showpiece with the song of 2011, Dhanush’s Kolaveri di…, from his upcoming Tamil movie, 3.

Quiz her on whether the masala medley is a prelude to a movie down south and Kareena laughs, “Oh, I have been offered several movies down south, but never thought about doing one. With all the Hindi movies I am doing, I barely have time for friends and family. The last year was so hectic, that the break in Switzerland was well deserved for both Saif and me. The reason we zeroed in on two Tamil and one Telugu song was because they are quite the rage today. It was the first time a female actor was dancing to Kolaveri di.. and I really enjoyed myself.”

So, where will she head to next? The IIFA Awards?

“Well, they haven’t approached me yet and it would depend on whether I have dates to spare. It already promises to be a hectic year. I’ve only shot for Heroine for 11 days and have another 80 to go,” she sighs, adding brightly, “It’s always fun being on stage in front of the film fraternity. But I would never dance at weddings.”

Small, simple tales for moviegoers this week

2012-01-31T03:19:00.000-08:00

NEW DELHI: Moviemaking is about telling interesting tales and this Friday not-so-big Bollywood directors are offering four simple but seemingly exciting tales in the form of black comedy Staying Alive, Hinglish comic thriller Love You To Death, laugh riot Gali Gali Chor Hai and thriller Married 2 America.

Last year real life stories became box office's favourite recipe and now Anant Mahadevan brings another such tale on the big screen in Staying Alive.

It is based on the true story of a journalist, Aditya (Anant), whose third heart attack sends him to the intensive cardiac care unit of a hospital, where he shares the room with an underworld kingpin, Shaukat Ali (Saurabh Shukla), a kebab fanatic whose is recuperating after his first heart attack. The climax unfurls how a man from the wrong side of law tries to transform.

Love You To Death offers a potent mix of thrill and comedy. Director Rafeeq Ellias has tried to bring a wild, whacky comic thriller in Hinglish that pokes fun at the crazy times we live in.

Inspired by newspaper stories, it revolves around a bunch of bumbling murder attempts with characters as crazy as a doctor who is a sexpert by day, a rockstar by night and a theatre director who also organises supari deaths. The film culminates in an art gallery with loads of blank guns, a single loaded pistol and some unexpected results!

The cast has some unknown names like Yuki Ellias, Carl Sequeira, Leonid Kudryavtsev, Sheeba Chaddha, Sohrab Ardeshir, Nicholas Brown, Uday Chandra as well as Suhasini Mulay, Chandan Roy Sanyal, Kallol Banerjee. But never mind, as long as the story is engaging and engrossing.

It is the common man who has to bear the brunt of the corrupt system and this is central to the script of Gali Gali Chor Hai. In the film, Akshaye plays a part-time Hanuman at the local Ram Lila and works as a full-time cashier in a bank. His character represents the quintessential common man and his problems.

Bharat's life goes upside down when he finds himself stuck in a hilariously vicious circle of corruption, having to bribe his way from cops to criminals, witnesses to lawyers, and even the judge, all in an effort to get out of the rut that is the Indian system.

Out of the four films, Gali Gali Chor Hai has some big names. If Rumi Jaffery has directed the film, the cast also boasts of Shriya Saran and Mugdha Godse. The film is a small budget project, and interestingly has been set in the small town of Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh.

Annu Kapoor, Satish Kaushik, Akhilendra Mishra and Vijay Raaz will also be seen adding flavour to the story and Pakistani actress Veena Malik has been roped in to spice up the script with her item number.

Scams and corruption had dominated the news headlines last year and Married 2 America throws light on something similar. Directed by Dilip Shankar, the film is said to be sensational and thrilling and the cast has names like Jackie Shroff, Archana Joglekar, Shweta Tiwari and Raghuveer Yadav.

The story is about architect Ravi Malhotra is an NRI, who lives in the US, works for Larson & Jason. The company's recent contracts was the Darbhanga Dam project in Saurabhpur district in Bihar, India and Ravi was the brain behind the project which has a 100-year warranty.

But within a few years, three of the dam's gates burst open, leaving hundreds of people dead, thousands homeless and public property worth crore washed down. The Indian government is contemplating suing the company for damages worth millions.

So the company sends Ravi to India to investigate what exactly caused the damage and he hands over the report that contains a shocking truth to the authorities, but after that he goes missing. When he doesn't show up for three months, his distraught wife Anjali decides to fly down to India and search for him.

Marathi actress Archana Joglekar will be seen in a Hindi film after a long time. She had earlier featured in Aatank Hi Aatank (1995) and Sansar (1987). She also worked in TV serials.

Ranbir, Vidya best actors at 57th Filmfare awards

2012-01-31T03:18:00.001-08:00

MUMBAI: Vidya Balan, who painted The Dirty Picture in Bollywood last year and Rockstar Ranbir Kapoor picked the best actor trophies at the annual Filmfare awards ceremony here, while Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara bagged the best film honour. It was a double whammy for Zoya Akhtar and Ranbir, as the former took home the best director award for Zindagi..., while the latter was named the best actor in the critics' choice as well.

Priyanka Chopra won the best actress (critics' choice) for her portrayal of a woman who kills her seven husbands in 7 Khoon Maaf.

Farhan Akhtar picked the best dialogue award for his snazzy writing for Zindagi...

The 57th Filmfare awards ceremony was held in Film City here Sunday night.

Celebrities like Bipasha Basu, Madhuri Dixit, Sameera Reddy, Shreya Ghoshal, Onir, Farhan, Zoya, Deepika Padukone, Madhur Bhandarkar, Abhishek Bachchan, Rekha, Raveena Tandon, Anurag Kashyap, Subhash Ghai, Dia Mirza, Aditi Rao Hydari,Sarah Jane Dias and Gauri Khan walked the red carpet.

Bebo not invited to Agent Vinod’s promotions?

2012-01-30T01:49:00.000-08:00

NEW DELHI: The glamour quotient was missing from an otherwise action-packed launch of upcoming film, Agent Vinod’s first look that took place on Wednesday.

Actor-producer Saif Ali Khan released the first look of the film with co-producer Dinesh Vijan and director Sriram Raghavan.

But the film’s leading lady Kareena Kapoor was conspicuous by her absence from the event.

Kareena reportedly skipped the event and instead attended the Apsara Awards function that took place on the same day.

“Kareena had a prior commitment as she was supposed to perform at the awards ceremony. So, she was occupied the entire day rehearsing for it and gave her full attention to the ceremony,” says a source close to Kareena.

The makers of Agent Vinod, however, stayed tight-lipped about her absence but an insider from the film unit says,“Saif consciously decided he wants the film to be promoted in its true sense and does not wish to trivialise the promotion by his relationship with Kareena.

As Saif and Kareena’s presence at one stage is bound to shift focus from the movie to their personal equation and impending marriage. So, he has planned to do promotional activities separately.”

In an earlier interview, Saif had said, “I don’t want my relationship to become headlines when I want media to talk about my film, Agent Vinod.”

As the Agent should unveil the look first, therefore Saif launched the first look of the movie alone. I will unveil my character in Delhi only on the 12th of February, post Ek Main Aur Ek Tu’s release

Kareena Kapoor, actor I don’t want my relationship to become headlines when I am promoting my film and therefore want the media to talk about my film.

Actor Saif Ali Khan had said in an earlier interview.

Barfi! turns to B-schools for help

2012-01-28T02:13:00.000-08:00

MUMBAI: In July this year, Friday the 13th, to be precise, Ranbir Kapoor will return to the theatre. This time the Rockstar, who wowed us with Sadda Haq… will be seen playing a deaf-mute with co-star Priyanka Chopra, who plays Jhilmil, an autistic girl. The film will also mark the debut of South star Ileana D’Cruz in a parallel role.

The pre-conceived notion is that Barfi!, earlier titled Silence, is heavy on melodrama. But Ranbir is quick to dispel the misconception. Barfi!, is a fun, family film, a romantic thriller,” asserts the actor. “It’s about two dysfunctional people who bond together in the nicest of relationships, one that is sweet, touching and heart-warming.”

While Ranbir admits that he had to resort to a lot of sign language in the film given that his character, fondly called Barfi!, doesn’t have a voice, he clarifies that it won’t be difficult to interpret his lingo. “It’s more like a game of dumb charades that we play at picnics and parties. Anurag (director Anurag Basu) was very clear that he didn’t want the sign language to get too technical. It’s more about acting out and expressing through my face and hand gestures, that’s it.”

Shikha Kapur, senior vice president, marketing, UTV, endorses the fact that Barfi! is a “happy” film, primarily targeting the youth. With this in mind UTV, which produced the film is trying to enlist the support of the youth. “Last week, at Cine Pact, a city college fest, we interacted with an eclectic group of youngsters from India’s top 20 business schools who came up with some interesting ideas on how we could promote an out-of-the-box film like this,” says Shikha.

The student crowd was informed that even though Ranbir is a deaf-mute he’s not a Lachaar Bechara (object of pity) but a Chalu Chaplin. With this in mind, they were asked to come up with a marketing pitch for Barfi!,. “We’ve picked the 10 best and plan to involve them while brainstorming on promotional activities.”

Why Karan Johar is in awe of Rishi Kapoor

2012-01-27T02:11:00.000-08:00

MUMBAI: Filmmaker Karan Johar is all praises for veteran actor Rishi Kapoor, who has portrayed two completely opposite characters in two of his productions - Agneepath and Student Of The Year. "When you watch Agneepath and then when you watch Student Of The Year, you will see the versatility of Rishi Kapoor. You will be surprised to see that he can do two extremely different parts in the same year," the 39-year-old producer-director said here at a recent event.

While Agneepath hit theatres Thursday, Johar's directorial Student of The Year is expected to release in the middle of this year.

Aamir Khan’s set burnt

2012-01-25T03:08:00.000-08:00

MUMBAI: Late on Monday evening, actor Aamir Khan’s TV show set, that was erected at Vrindavan Studios, Madh Island, caught fire. According to eyewitnesses, an electrical spark, caused by a short circuit, was the reason for the fire that broke out in one corner of the studio and within minutes had spread. Not only the set but also shooting equipment worth crores was gutted.

Fortunately, the Bollywood star who is producing and anchoring the show, wasn’t on the sets at the time of the mishap.

Sources close to Aamir Khan Productions reveal that earlier in the evening, the show’s crew and a couple of production hands from the channel had been to the sets for a reiki.

There were only 20-30 people on the floor at the time, working on the lights and the final touch-up of the sets. Suddenly, one of the crew members spotted a spark but before anyone could react, it had turned into an uncontrollable blaze that spread through the place, charring wires and extension cables.

Fortunately, since there weren’t too many people around at the time, there were no casualties. In fact, no injuries were reported and everyone is safe. Six fire brigades were at the studio trying to bring the fire under control.

Towards the end of the week, another set of crewmembers will be visiting the sets to take stock of the situation. Once they have surveyed the damages, reconstruction work will start soon so the yet-to-be-titled show can start rolling.

The spokesperson from Aamir Khan Productions, in an email, states, “It’s an extremely unfortunate incident. We were really lucky that none of our unit members was hurt in the accident.”

The spokesperson from Star Plus, the show’s broadcaster, says, “We had taken ample safety precautions but the fire still occurred. Thankfully, it was brought under control immediately and no injuries were reported.”

Ranbir, Katrina sizzle at the Zee Cine Awards

2012-01-25T03:07:00.000-08:00

NEW DELHI: Bollywood was in full attendance at the Zee Cine Awards held in Macau on Saturday. Rumoured flames Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif set the stage on fire with their entertaining acts.

Ranbir enthralled the audience with his first live performance on songs like Bachna Ae Haseeno, Sadda Haq and Prem Ki Naiya.

The Kapoor boy's performance in Rockstar earned him the Best Actor (Popular) award. Rockstar also bagged awards for Best Director, Best Film (Popular), Best Music (AR Rahman), Best Singer (Mohit Chauhan for Jo Bhi Main) and Best Lyrics.

Katrina Kaif sizzled on stage with her Chikni Chameli act and left everyone wanting more. The Sheila girl was honoured with International Icon Female award.

Later, Ranbir joined Shahid Kapoor on the stage and the duo paid a tribute to late Shammi Kapoor and Dev Anand.

The hosts for the evening were Don co-stars Priyanka Chopra and Shah Rukh Khan.

The awards will air on February 5 on Zee TV.

I love the original Agneepath: Sanjay Dutt

2012-01-24T03:29:00.000-08:00

MUMBAI: Though Amitabh Bachchan starrer Agneepath did not catch the eye of the audience, the remake has already grabbed eyeballs. But actor Sanjay Dutt, who plays the dreaded villain in the latest version feels the original was much ahead of its time.

The 1990 cult classic, directed by Mukul Anand, featured Big B as the iconic Vijay Dinanath Chauhan, Danny Denzongpa as Kancha Cheena, the baddie and Mithun Chakraborty as the lovable coconut seller Krishnan Iyer MA. Despite a stellar cast Agneepath failed at the box office commercially but Bachchan's performance was praised.

Producer Yash Johar's son, Karan has remade the film in the same name now starring Hrithik Roshan and Dutt. It has already created quite a buzz, unlike the original.

"I loved the film (original) and if I was the whole of audience, I would have made it a big hit. I think may be the film was too ahead of times..Mukul is a brilliant director in his work...his vision was so much ahead of his time," Sanjay said in an interview.

"I have seen original film several times. I lived the dialogues of the film and performances of Amitji, Danny and Mithun Da," he said.

Although the remake would have new actors reprising the iconic characters again, except for the basic plot of revenge, the new Agneepath has a different story. "The premise is same. Vijay Dinanth Chauhan, Kancha is there...the revenge story where Vijay comes to Mandwa is same. It is a revenge story but the setting is totally different. It is very grounded film here Kancha wears dhoti, kurti and kolhapuri footwear and Vijay is also a simple man. He (Karan Malhotra) has made it as a very real grounded and rustic film," Sanjay said.

The new Agneepath also featuring Priyanka Chopra is up for release on January 26.

Marriage hasn’t affected films: Genelia

2012-01-24T03:28:00.000-08:00

MUMBAI: Ever since Riteish Deshmukh announced his wedding to long-time girlfriend Genelia D’Souza, talks have been rife that filmmakers are being forced to reschedule their projects due to the nuptials. Zombie comedy Rock The Shaadi makers, Balaji Motion Pictures, have openly stated that they “had to push the shoot dates by almost a month to work around Genelia’s wedding dates.”

“None of my films are delayed due to the wedding,” protests the bride-to-be, adding that Rock The Shaadi was supposed to be wrapped up by November last year. “Thanks to the film’s setting, it has to be shot around marriage celebrations. But they couldn’t get required permission for outdoor shoots due to the ongoing wedding season. So, it had to be postponed. I think it will be wrapped up by the end of February,” Genelia explains.

Riteish, on his part, too blasts such reports. “All my films, including Kya Super Kool Hai Hum, are running as per schedule. And there won’t be any delays,” he says. Incidentally, Riteish’s film is also being produced by the same production house.

What the soon-to-be-wed duo are now focused on is their February 3 wedding, and their upcoming film, Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya. “Riteish and I have been very busy over the last year, so it was a great opportunity to spend time with each other during the shoot.

We also re-discovered one another as actors,” Genelia says. The couple, who’s starred together in films like Tujhe Meri Kasam (2003) and Masti (2004), have decided against taking up offers just for the sake of working together. “It has to be the right film and script for us,” says the female star, whose wedding is set to take place at one of the suburban five star hotels, and will probably be a traditional Maharastrian wedding with a Christian reception.

‘Will continue acting’
Genelia D’Souza is trying to keep her wedding to co-star Riteish Deshmukh private. “I want it to remain a family affair with just a few close friends from the film fraternity,” she says, feigning ignorance about a mega-bash apparently being planned by filmmaker Sajid Nadiadwala and actor Fardeen Khan a day before she ties the knot.

Apparently zeroing in on designs by Surily Goel, Ritu Kumar and Manish Malhotra, Genelia admits that preparations for D-day are in full swing now, adding, “We aren’t nervous, but there’s a lot of excitement on both sides.”

Ask how she plans to prioritise her career after settling down, and she says, “I will continue acting, but haven’t decided to what extent."

Emraan and I, a perfect match in Raaz 3D: Bipasha

2012-01-23T03:16:00.001-08:00

MUMBAI: Bipasha Basu is upbeat about her first 3D film. A decade after Raaz, the sultry actor returns to the Raaz franchise. Raaz 3D that will also mark the comeback of the original Raaz director, Vikram Bhatt, is scheduled for release on July 6.

“It’s a challenging role and I’m told it will be a difficult film to shoot. We will have to do it in bits and pieces because of the technology involved. But it’s still very exciting for me as an actor, more so after Hollywood 3D specialist Joe Hagg, who designed the visual effects for James Cameron’s Avatar (2009), has been roped in for 20 minutes of SFX for our movie.

Wow, I can’t wait to put on my 3D glasses!” laughs Bipasha.

She admits quite frankly that when as a supermodel she had debuted with the Abbas-Mustan thriller, Ajnabee (2001), she wasn’t really serious about a career in Bollywood. “It was Raaz that got me interested in acting, after I was nominated in the Best Actress category for one of the popular awards. Footpath (2003) and Aetbaar (2004) that followed reinforced my interest. It’s nice to be back with Vikram, he’s a good friend,” she says.

Her co-star in Raaz 3 is Emraan Hashmi. Remind her that she be paired with him in Woh Lamhe (2006) and Bipsha reasons, “I’ve seen Emraan from the time that he used to work as an assistant director on the sets. Those days he looked like a little boy and since I was a lot more voluptuous then, I looked older than him. But in the 10 years since, he has matured. He is a seasoned actor now. And having lost a lot of weight, I look younger too. I’m convinced we will make a perfect match in Raaz 3D.”

Bipsha had infuriated the Bhatts last year after turning down the lead in Murder 2 as she didn’t think the role was meaty enough. Then she had kept them dangling over a promised item number in the film, having to be replaced by Yana Gupta at the last minute.

Producer Mukesh Bhatt had lashed out at her in print. “Mukeshji is like a child,” she smiles. “He’s very transparent about his feelings, whether he’s happy or unhappy. I like that honesty. And I know that no matter what happens, the Bhatts love me and I love them.”

Sonakshi-Ranveer head for Purulia

2012-01-21T03:00:00.001-08:00

MUMBAI: Ranveer Singh is immersing himself into his upcoming film Lootera more than he usually does. Not only is he unofficially assisting director Vikramaditya Motwane, he is also taking keen interest in checking out the locations personally. The shooting of Lootera was shifted from Dalhousie to Bengal at the last minute, and when Ranveer heard that the Bengal location was Purulia, scene of a mysterious unauthorised arms-dropping in 1995, Ranveer insisted on getting there first to make sure the place was safe for a lady.

This isn't the first time during their schedules together that Ranveer has tested the waters. Earlier when Kashmir was snowed under, Ranveer insisted that he go to Dalhousie alone to check out the density of the snow.

Producer Vikas Bahl confirmed Ranveer's involvement. "Ranveer did visit Dalhousie prior to the shooting. He insisted on exploring the snow-scape with the unit. He stayed outdoors in the freezing cold for one whole day and returned convinced that we'd have to postpone our Dalhousie schedule.

"Sonakshi was warned from proceeding just in time. The snowfall this year in that area is the most intense in 17 years. Our unit needed hot water to open the doors of the cars," said Bahl.

The unit will now return to Dalhousie in February when the snow will subside. "About 40 percent of the Ranveer-Sonakshi romance in Lootera unfolds in the snowfall. So there's no getting away from the snow. The rest will be shot in Purulia. So that is where we're heading now," he added.

The unit of Lootera has lost close to Rs.1 crore thanks to the postponement of their schedule in Dalhousie. The producers hope to make up for lost time and money after the Purulia schedule. The one member of the unit who seems most traumatised by the unscheduled change is director Motwane.

"It's easier for the rest of us to relocate ourselves. But Vikramaditya has to reposition his entire creative process from one state of mind to another, so that we don't waste any more time and the stars' dates," said Bahl.