Movies Music and Me.....

Agneepath : Movie Review

2012-01-26T20:47:00.002+05:30

First, let me make it clear - I haven't seen the original Agneepath, so the 'inevitable comparisons' are not here [for a change]. Agneepath that I watched, has those perfect Bollywood acts, colorful dances with huge chorus, looong long shots and silhouttes for gloomy scenes. Welcome to the world of Karan Johar. Welcome to new Agneepath.

To put it short - I loved it. The Vijay Dinanath Chauhan saga is refreshed with few new twists and new characters [like a menacing Rishi Kapoor, can you imagine him that way??!!] but still it makes an absolutely engaging entertainer. Everyone was murmuring about Hrithik playing the legendary the Vijay is the biggest risk, but no. I think he was the safest bet to play this character. Even in his silent expressions, he moves the audience. Add his remarkable screen presence, and I am totally drooled over his stupendous performance. Though there was a glitch, that I did not find the chemistry of him and Priyanka upto the mark. Actually, Priyanka herself wasn't upto the mark here. She seemed lost at many places. Or maybe, in this revenge revenge talk, the female characters are under-developed? [ditto with Zarina Wahab].

By the way, the one guy who surprised me was Rishi Kapoor. Man oh man, I've never seen him playing a bad guy. And here he was. Menacing, someone whom you'll hate immensely and at the same time-like too [while watching him dance, in a superbly choreographed Shah Ka Rutba]. Also the kid who played young Vijay - Arish Bhiwandiwala, superb act I must say. Om Puri is good, better than his Don avatar. Sanjay Dutt - I didn't liked him much. No. Or may be, it is a must that if one did not liked villain's performance, he has done his best work. But seriously, why did they put age old dialogues from Bhagvad Gita?? The dialogues given to him are so typical that sometimes it seems amusing. But thankfully, his screentime is lesser than what I had expected. But whenever Kancha and Vijay clashes - there are sparks. Literally.

Technically the film is perfect. From gloomy dark moments to the cheerful larger than life Ganesha scenes [outstanding chorography in Deva Sri Ganesha and Shah Ka Rutba], everything is too good. Brilliant cinematography. And backed by thumping score of Ajay-Atul, the sound creates a great impact. Also, the two lovely tracks Abhi mujhe mein kahin and Saiyaan, moves you. Despite the face the movie is quite longer than recent usual movies, one don't feel its stretching or lagging at any place. What do one need else, but a perfect entertainer like this?

Dear 90s, welcome back.

Tags : Agneepath review, movie review, agnipath, vijay dinanath chauhan, suhasini chauhan, mandva, mandwa, chikni chameli, priyanka chopra, katrina kaif, om puri, zarina wahab, child vijay, child artist name, young boy, Arish Bhiwandiwala

Zee Cine Awards 2012 : Winners

2012-01-22T11:45:00.001+05:30

Best Actor (Popular) – Ranbir Kapoor (Rockstar)
Best Actress (Popular) – Vidya Balan (The Dirty Picture)
Best Director – Imtiaz Ali (Rockstar)

Best Actor (Jury) – Shah Rukh Khan (Don 2)
Best Actress (Jury) – Vidya Balan (The Dirty Picture)
Best Film (Jury) – The Dirty Picture

Best Debut Female – Parineeti Chopra (Ladies vs Ricky Bahl)
Best Debut Male – Rana Daggubati (Dum Maaro Dum)
Best Debut Director – Siddique (Bodyguard)

Best Supporting Actor – Farhan Akhtar (Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara)
Best Supporting Actress – Swara Bhaskar (Tanu Weds Manu)
Best Actor in a Negative Role – Prakash Raj (Singham)

Best use of Media – RA.One
Best Marketed Film – RA.One
Best Action Film – RA.One
Song of the Year – Chammak Challo (RA.One)

Lifetime Achievement Award – Jeetendra

Best Choreography – Ooh La La (The Dirty Picture)
Best Lyrics – Irshad Kamil (Rockstar)
Best Song – Ishq Sufiana (The Dirty Picture)
Best Singer (Female) – Shreya Ghoshal (Saibo from Shor In The City)
Best Singer (Male) – Mohit Chauhan (Jo bhi main from Rockstar)
Best Music – AR Rahman

International Icon Female – Katrina Kaif
International Icon Male – Farhan Akthar

Best Sound Design – Resul Pookutty (RA.One)
Best Cinematography - Carlos Catalan (Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara)
Best Editing – Aarti Bajaj (Rockstar)
Best Story – Zoya Akhtar and Reema Kagti (Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara)

Tags : Zee cine awards 2011 winners, zca winners, zee cine, macau, awards, winners, ranbir, salman khan, shahrukh khan, priyanka chopra performance video, pictures

Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya : Music Review

2012-01-20T14:09:00.001+05:30

Atif and Shreya kick start the album with lovely Piya O Re Piya, this is something that Atif does the best. Track repeats as a sad version too Next one is again a kind of track that Mohit Chauhan excels in. Jeene De with Qawwali arrangements, sounds pretty good. And the, a punjabi track comes in the picture- Pee Paa Ho Gaya (!). [not my favorite genre, repeating again] is as foot tapping as a punjabi track should be.

Atif comes back with Monali Thakur & Priya Panchal, in Tu Mohabbat Hai, yet another mushy track, not as impressive as Piya, yet charms. And after all this, what's left? Yes, an item number. Sunidhi and Kailash Kher's Fann Ban Gayi is nothing special to go ga-ga about, except the fact that it must be good fun sequence in the movie.

Composer duo Sachin-Jigar who gave some commendable tracks in 2011, starts off 2012 in a pretty mixed mode. Lets see whats ahead in store.

Tags : Tere naal love ho gaya movie, review, genelia desouza, d'souza, riteish deshmukh, ritesh, tips films, atif aslam, benny dayal, Priya panchal, kailash kher, item song

Jodi Breakers : Music Review

2012-01-19T09:26:00.001+05:30

Kunwara has hangover of Band Baaja Baarat, but still-a groovy one. Bipasha is a passable one except the 'qawwali'ish part sung by Shadab (?). The next three tracks are something worth. Darmiyaan starts with aalap exactly same as an Atif's solo, and have traces another film song of him- though Shafaqat & Clinton makes us fall in love with the track. Also the reprise by Shreya is lovely. Mujhko Teri zaroorat hai and Jab Mein Tumhare Saath Hoon both has that mushy flavor, a Salim-Suleiman trademark.

Overall, an average fare, makes one wonder what has happened to the duo who gave some fabulous tracks in past. The sound is getting repetitive these days.

Tags : Jodi breakers review, kunwara, bipasha basu, r madhavan, maddy, irshad kamil, salim merchant, suleiman merchant

18th Screen Awards - 2012 : winners

2012-01-14T22:56:00.002+05:30

The award season has started. First one, is as always - SCREEN awards. Though I have stopped believing in any of the awards cause most of them want to keep everyone happy and nothing else. Screen awards were looked the same even by the nominations. Here are the winners for the year 2011 :

Best Background Score: Ranjit Barot [Shaitan]

Best Special Effects: Red Chillies VFX [Ra.One]

Best Sound Design: Kunal Sharma [Shaitan]

Best Editing: Huzefa Lokhandwala [Delhi Belly]

Best Production Design: Shashank Tere [Delhi Belly]

Best Action: Ra.One

Best Cinematography: R Madhi [Shaitan]

Best Costume: Niharika Khan [The Dirty Picture]

Best Story: Akshat Verma [Delhi Belly]

Best Screenplay: Akshat Verma [Delhi Belly]

Best Dialogue: Farhan Akhtar/Javed Akhtar [ZNMD] and Rajat Arora [The Dirty Picture]

Best Ensemble Cast: Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara

Best Lyrics: Prasoon Joshi - Accha Lagta Hai [Aarakshan]

Best Music: AR Rahman [Rockstar]

Best Playback (Male): Mohit Chauhan - Sadda Haq and Phir Se Udd Chala, Rockstar

Best Choreography: Bosco Caesar - Senorita[ZNMD]

Best Child Artist: Partho Gupte [Stanley Ka Dabba]

Ramnath Goenka Excellence Award : Aarakshan for 'having made a difference'

Best Supporting Actor (Female): Aditi Rao Hydari [Yeh Saali Zindagi]

Best Supporting Actor (Male): Saif Ali Khan [Aarakshan]

Best Actor for a Negative Role (Female): Priyanka Chopra [Saat Khoon Maaf]

Best Actor in a Negative Role (Male): Prashant Narayanan [Murder 2]

Most Promising Newcomer (Female): Parineeti Chopra [Ladies v/s Ricky Bahl]

Most Promising Newcomer (Male): Divyendu [Pyar Ka Punchnama]

Most Promising Debut Director: Bejoy Nambiar [Shaitan]

Best Actor in a Comic Role: Pitobash [Shor in the City]

Best Actor (Female) Popular Choice (by public voting): Deepika Padukone [Aarakshan & Dum Maro Dum]

Best Actor (Male) Popular Choice (by public voting): Shah Rukh Khan [Ra.One & Don 2]

Favourite Jodi: Priyanka Chopra & Shah Rukh Khan [Don 2]

Best Performer of the Year: Ekta Kapoor for "shaking the box office"

Best Director: Milan Luthria [The Dirty Picture]

Best Film: The Dirty Picture and Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara

Best Actor (Female): Vidya Balan [The Dirty Picture]

Best Actor (Male): Ranbeer Kapoor [Rockstar]

Thanks @Mittermaniac on Twitter for live updates.

Tags : Star screen awards, colors screen awards winners, 2012, 2011, screen award winner list

Ekk Deewana Tha : Music Review

2012-01-04T19:30:00.001+05:30

Jazzy Kya Hai mohabbat works well just because of Rahman himself behind the mic. Lyrics by Javed Akhtar are good, but thats it. This reminded me the track-Meherbaan [Ada], in terms of the treatment of the song. A sure to grow on multiple listens.

Dost Hai Hum Toh gets 'hip' English rap, in its hindi avatar. And a slower tempo, with shorter Mukhda. Naresh Iyer's croon though easily gets stuck in head. But with just one line, it leaves us with feeling of 'i want more'.

Aaromale - [there was no chance this word could be translated ;)]. Alphonso Joseph sings some tricky pure hindi lines here. Wish they had retained the Tamil interlude instead of Shudh Hindi lines that sounds out of place [shubh shubh ghadi shubh shubh lagan].

I've already said a lot about the [epic] Hosanna. About how it lacks that madness, desperateness of [Tamil] Deewana. But, comparisons aside, now I'm actually humming it. Flavor of the song is totally changed to a sweeter one in hindi. But yes, it works. Except that accented English part.

Omanna Penne - Clinton Cerejo croons dreamy love ballad Phoolon Jaisi Ladki, that loses grip at places because of [ofcourse] lyrics. The Malayalam part though is retained, for good. Somehow I liked this one.

Sharminda Hoon - 'the' Mannipaya is lost in translation. The words are forcefully placed on this beautiful tune. The most annoying part is the interlude [Sitaron se aage jahaan aur bhi hai !!] and the lines that Rahman sings [Auns ki boond...]. Madhushree is refereshing change though [Shreya was in Tamil original], but the urge to paste the words on the tune kills the song.

The Only hindi version I found quite well done, is Sun Lo Zara. [Anbil Avan in Tamil]. Shreya sounds strangely different, yet good. And with Rashid Ali, this fast paced song works well.

Dreamy, Guitar'y tune of Zohra Jabeen has its own power - its composition. One can easily get lost in beautiful tune without caring about lyrics. ;) [Just don't want to compare but, happens - the deep meaning of the original is missing here in 'zohra jabeen' !!]

The real treat comes towards the end of the album. A 4:32 Min long Aaromale by Shreya Ghoshal [Broken Promises] is still as haunting as it was in 2010. Instrumental Moments in Kerala is lovely piano piece by Prabhakar. And Jessi's Land still takes us to the land of beautiful backwaters - Kerala. And finally, the madness returns in Jessi's driving me crazy. This time with Hindi lines. Desert, never tasted so good. :)

So, full marks to singers and composer. But seriously, lyrics messes it up. I love the original tamil album [Vinnaithandi Varuvaayaa] more than anything else. Say, I lived the album since I heard it first in 2010. So naturally, the anger of doing injustice to its hindi version, will be there. Naturally, I tend to compare the songs with Tamil ones. It happens, as the Tamil tracks are in my veins now. And they certainly had more meaningful meaning [!]. Know, Javed ji had this tough task of writing words for already epic songs. But the problem here is 'tod marod ke fixed' lines. We heard such thing in a original hindin score by the duo too [Dekho Na-Swades]. But, still, I am annoyed. Maybe it will take a thousand listens to remove the grudge. And still, I will love the original score. Sorry Javed saab, U no Gulzar saab. EDT-is no Saathiya.

Tags : Ek deewana tha music review, Ekk deewana tha review, Diwana, Pratiek Babbar, Emy, Amy Jackson, Gautham Vasudev Menon, A R Rahman, Rehman, Leon D'souza, Javed ALi, Chinmayi, Javed AKhtar, Vinnaithandi Varuvaaya, YMC, Ye Maya Chesave, Mayya, Simbu, Trisha, movie, Download.

Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu : Music Review

2011-12-30T19:55:00.001+05:30

Peppy title track is addictive from the word go. Especially tweaked voice of Benny singing 'Talli' gets stuck. Also the simple lyrics work. As observed by almost all, Gubbare sounds almost like a track from Aisha. But still, its cozy feel and whistle makes an endearing listen. Aunty ji is next. Ash King goes in rock mode [something we haven't heard by him], with fun lyrics, the track must be a riot on the screen. Karthik and Shilpa's Aahatein sounds like Boondon ke moti [Wake Up Sid], not good not bad. As lyrics says it all 'sab kuchh wohi hai, par kuchh kami hai'. Last Kar Chalna Shuru Tu - is my most favorite of the lot. Vishal Dadlani and Shilpa Rao makes this cheerful track more alive. And the 'saxy' concluding piece is fabulous.

So, there, Amit Trivedi, after a long break, gives a "not great, not bad at all". A nice mix of light tracks for a light movie.

Tags : Kareena Kapoor, Imran Khan, Ek main aur ek tu, dharma productions, Karan johar, UTV, shakun batra

Music of 2011 : Lists, Favorites

2011-12-29T21:46:00.000+05:30

And finally, I have sorted it out. 10 most favorite soundtracks of the year 2011. Specifically in order of 10 to 1, here are my favorites from Bollywood.

10. Force : Except the 'bonus track' - Dum hai toh aaja, all the tracks were fine. Wish we can here more in hindi by Harris.

9. Damadamm : Guilty pleasure-Himessh has always been one. From annoying Mango song to addictive Umrao Jaan. Damadamm was full of trademark Himessh.

8. Ra.One : One album that had both - Chammak Challo & Bhare Naina. VS - in commercial potboiler mode.

7. Patiala House : The only saving grace of SEL this year. [ZNMD worked just for 2 tracks for me]. Pure punjabi 'lashkara's to 'pop'ish 'baby when you' - fun album.

6. Sahib Biwi Aur Gangster: 7 composers, 7 songs - notable each one is.

5. Bol : Atif Aslam. Hadiqa Kiyani. Hona Tha Pyar. Din Pareshan Hai. Dil Janiya and much more. Why won't I love it?

4. 7 khoon maaf : Though till date, I don't find 'Yeshu' upto the mark, there are tracks to die for. And, Gulzar saab.

3. Stanley Ka Dabba : Charming. WOnderful soundtrack by newbie Hitesh Sonik. I still feel overwhelmed while listening to Nanhi si jaan.

2. Rockstar : A R Rahman. okay? OK.

1. Tanu Weds Manu : When I heard this album for the first time, it was decided that it will top this list. Rangrez, Mannu Bhaiyya, Yun Hi, Piya, Saddi Gully - part of my life these songs are. [Just can't believe I met the wonderful lyricist Raj Shekhar-the writer of the songs I lived thoughout the year :-)]

Also, here are my '10 most played songs'. [in random order]

1. Dil Dar-ba-dar

2. Piya

3. Rangrez

4. Yun hi

5. Saibo

6. Dannah Pah Dannah

7. Nasha

8. Nanhi si jaan

9. Kun Faya Kun

10. Phir se udd chala

And, [though I still call myself a newbie at southies] Favorite southie albums.

1. Sri Ramarajyam

2. 100% Love

3. Urumi

Twitter Hits : 2011 [poll]

2011-12-25T19:44:00.001+05:30

As always, Bollywood ruled my Twitter timeline. (thing that I love the most) And the songs became larger than the movies itself this time. Year started with VB's Darling and ended with darling Vidya. (see, 'V''). Often the tweets went 'Darliiiiiinggg', or 'dancing to #saddiGully'. '...Surkhiyaan hai hawaaon mein' to 'Ji Ba traa'.

Here I have listed out 13 songs - 13 trends that topped the Twitter charts. Tell me which one is YOUR most favorite.

Hosanna Lyrics : Ek Deewana Tha

2011-12-22T10:49:00.001+05:30

Well, the first song from much anticipated Ek Deewana Tha is here. Remake of tamil hit from Vinnaithandi Varuvaaya, only the lead singer is different this time - Leon D'souza, instead of Vijay Prakash. My feeling - that madness, desperateness of the 'deewana' is missing and the accented English rap does not sound as good as it was in Tamil one. But still, it works, because of Rahman, of course.

Here are the lyrics written by Javed Akhtar. Meaning of Hosanna is here in this post.

Dil hote jo, mere seene mein do,
doosra dil bhi main, tumhe deta todne ko.

Dilkash thi woh shaam pehle pehal jab ke, tumse mili thi nazar,
Aisa chakraya ke ab yeh na janu ke
jau toh jau kidhar,
Hosanna
Tu samne thi ek pal,
Hosanna
Agle hi pal thi ozhal,
Ab kya batau main,
kis haal mein hu main,
yahaan wahaan bas apna dil aur
hosh dhoodta hu main.

Hosanna, Madhoshi deewanagi,
Hosanna, main aur meri bandgi.
Hosanna, ab hai yehi zindgi.

Everybody wanna know what I feel like, I feel like,
I really wanna be here with you,
Its not enough to say that we are made for each other,
Its love that is Hosanna true,
Hosanna, (I'll) be there when u callin' out my name
Hosanna, 'm feeling like my whole life has changed,
I never wanna be the same,
Its time we re-arrange,
I take a step, You take a step, and me aa callin' out to u..

Hello....Hello.....Yo Hosanna.

Udti hui titli ki rangeen parchhayee reh jaati hai phoolon mein,
Waise hi tum ek tasveer ke jaise chhaye ho een aankhon mein,

Hosanna, Tum jo mera khwab ho,
Hosanna, Dil kyon na betaab ho,
Kahoon to kya kahoon,
main kyun deewana hoon,
Tumhare baare mein hi har ghadi sochta hoon kyun.

Hello.. Hello...

Hosanna, ab din ho ya raat ho,
Hosanna, dil chahe tum saath ho,
Hosanna, bas haathon mein haath ho...
Hosanna....

Dil hote jo, mere seene mein do,
doosra dil bhi main, tumhe deta todne ko.

Tags : Hosanna hindi lyrics, english rap, lyrics, hossanna lyrics, hosana, ek deewana tha, hosanna meaning, hosana meaning, a r rahman, pratiek, jessie, amy jackson

Agneepath : Music Review

2011-12-16T21:21:00.001+05:30

I did not have any big expectations for soundtrack of this movie, as I knew its going to be a dark movie. So no regular Dharma Productions soundtrack. But somehow, after few repeats, I am pretty much into this Ajay-Atul composed album.

Chikni Chameli - the Hindi Kombdi Palali, is as catchy as a Marathi folk song can be. Shreya sounds totally different. Not 'great' as it was publicized, but sure to entertain on the screen. Next - O Saiyyan, has an 'opera'ish sound. Sung by Roop Kumar Rathod, composers make sure to utilize his vocals to the fullest [though I feel the recording could be better] With minimal arrangments. Similarly, Sonu has his own share of such number as Abhi Mujhe Mein Kahin comes up. Piano led track got me goosebumps as it progressed and ended with Tablas. Wonderful lyrics, no wonder, Amitabh Bhattacharya. Waiting to see this one on the screen.

Sunidhi and Udit Narayan (!!) comes up with Gun Gun Guna. A 'cheer up' song. Why Udit is used so less? He would have done great things in this fun song. Shah Ka Rutba is the track that would take me the movie viewing, to like it. A Qawwali by Sukhwinder Singh, Anand Raaj Anand and Krishna Beura. Situational it sounds, but yes, quite innovative sounds there. The album ends [aptly] with Deva Shree Ganesha. A sure to make your feet dance - as always a Ganesha song does. Hardcore Nagaada sounds with vocals of Ajay himself.

My Picks : Abhi Mujhe Mein Kahin, O Saiyyan.

Tags: Agneepath music review, songs, agnipath, hrithik roshan, sanjay dutt, chikni chameli, katrina kaif, kaali, priyanka chopra, rishi kapoor, kancha china, vijay dinanath chauhan, cheena, rauf lala, om puri, suhasini chauhan, karan malhotra, karan johar, dharma productions

Love songs of 2011

2011-12-15T21:11:00.001+05:30

Most favorite time of the year, season of lists, is here. I enjoy going back to the first month of the year, re listen, re-enjoy each soundtrack, each movie and make different lists. This time, I thought why not a love songs list? After all, its mandatory to have one in each OST. So, here is my list. Love songs of 2011. Selected from 20 albums of the year. [the order is just random]

1. Yun Hi & Piya [Tanu Weds Manu]: The BEST we had this year. Mohit Chauhan and Roop Kumar Rathod with Krsna's score and Raj Shekhar's words, made me flattered.

2. Bekaraan & Tere liye [Saat Khoon Maaf]: VB, Gulzar, Suresh Wadkar. The team that never goes wrong.

3. Baby when you talk to me [Patiala House]: Fun lyrics, catchy tune, SEL #ftw

4. Aankhein [I Am] : Lovely simple track, oh and one of the firsts [on screen].

5. Te Amo [Dum Maaro Dum]: Though Jiyein Kyun was the best one in album, dark it was. So I chose this colorful, trademark Pritam mush.

6. Saibo [Shor in the City]: Fantabulous mix of genres, oh and lovely vocals and lyrics.

7. Will you marry me? [Turning 30]: As simple as u feel its just vocals. Conversation like track is such a sweet one.

8. Hona Tha pyaar [Bol] : Atif. Haaayyeee...and oh, Hadiqa Kiyani... Fab guitar led duet.

9. Tum ko [Rockstar]: Kavita ji after a long time. Wonderful tablas. Rahman.

10. Dil ki tamanna [Force] : Harris and his mush filled stuff.

11. Kaise kahein alvida [Yeh Saali Zindgi] : Dreamy composition with lovely voice of Javed Ali.

12. Chu Chu [Sahib Biwi aur Gangster]: The retro sound hits perfect note.

13. Tere Siva [Delhi Belly] : The only 'veg' thing in belly of Delhi.

14. Ishq Sufiyana [The Dirty Picture] : Emraan Hashmi ka romantik andaz ;)

15. Dildara [Ra.One] : King of Romance - isn't it?

16. Yun Toh Mera Dil [Damadamm] : Oh, Himessh. You oughta be in this list.

17. I love you [Bodyguard]: Another Pritam number, in standard format, with fab vocals by Ash King.

18. Badmaash Dil [Singham] : Pleasantly composed and sung.

19. Sirfira sa hai dil [Love you, Mr Kalakaar] : Dear Sandesh, why u no compose much?

20. Baatein shuru [Mujhse Fraandship Karoge] : Something different, fun.

Tags : Best songs of 2011, Best love songs, 2011, music of 2011, love 2011, music of 2011

5 Hollywood sequels I look forward to in 2012

2011-12-14T19:20:00.000+05:30

Well, this may seem off-topic on my blog where I mostly talk about Indian movies. Because I am totally sunk into it. But that doesn't mean I skip Hollywood cinemas. Especially the one that makes the child in me - happy. Animation, fiction and superheroes. So, here is my list of upcoming new movies - say 'sequels' I look forward to in 2012. And yes, the Bollywood Sequels post is coming soon too. :)

Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted

Alex, Marty, Gloria and Melman. And their fights. Loved them in both movies. Still, they haven't find their way to home. And they are in the Europe now, in a circus !! Aha.. Come June 2012 and I will go mad in the hall. is it in 3D? Yeah !

The Amazing Spider-Man

The Spider Man. The superhero I have grown up with and adored the most. Though I have doubts about the changed cast and director. Tobey Maguire was perfect. But anyways, lets hope for the best and wait for July 3, 2012.

Ice Age: Continental Drift

One animated franchise I love a lot. This time Scrat is coming to present day. Imagine the riot on the screen when the frozen team gets defrosted in a museum. But one question - why this movie is coming in Summer instead of winter?? Anyway, lets hope Scrat gets his beloved acorn this time, not. ;)

The Dark Knight Rises

Need I say anything? But yes, I just seriously wish if this would get released in IMAX format, back here, in India.

The Hobbit Part 1: An Unexpected Journey

The most favorite fiction, ever. The world of Hobbits. Technically, this is a prequel to the legendary LOTR trilogy, but still I am including it here because I wanted to ;) As the journey of Bilbo in the lonely mountains continues and then he wins his precioussss from none other than - the Gollum. Oh, and if rumours are to be believed, its being 'shot' in 3D !! \m/ Waiting for Dec 14,2012. Oh, that day falls after 12.12.12. :-|

Tags : The hobbit, download, the dark knight rises, trailer, ice age 4, spider man 4, madagascar 3, movie download

Talaash : First look leaked?

2011-12-10T06:31:00.001+05:30

Talaash - Reema Kagti's next with Aamir Khan, a psychological thriller, is scheduled to release in June, 2012. So it is too early to say the First poster is out. Or say leaked. Because the poster looks totally morphed with all the matrix code in the background. But whoever has done it - fantastic job I say. See for yourself, and decide.

Tags : Talaash first look, poster, dhuaan, dhuan, kareena kapoor, aamir khan, reema kagti, honeymoon travels, rani mukerji, raj kumar yadav, ram sampath, excel entertainment, 2012

The Dirty Picture : Movie Review

2011-12-03T13:32:00.001+05:30

There is a scene where Silk tells the world, that 'its you who made her what she is today', 'its you who made her dance like this, and only you who later called me vulgar'. Even though I was watching this in a single screen, that had the typical 'front benchers', I observed that there was a pin drop silence and later - the hall got filled with applause. Yes, that's the Vidya power. The Dirth Picture shall get renamed as The Vidya Picture, no one will mind that. She is no match with any other actress of her times. Shading her inhibitions-biggest ever risk of doing such a bold role-she has taken at this point of career. A really tough move-and Vidya outdoes the expectations. All the awards - please roll the red carpets for her.

But the powerhouse performance does not make TDP a perfect film. It has got its own glitches. Tusshar Kapoor has half baked role. Just a filler his character seems. Emraan Hashmi disappears all of a sudden for a long time, only to return in similar fashion. And when he returns, story gets dragged at a level that I felt the end is near, only to find out still half an hour is there. But no complaints about Emraan's performance. With matured actors like Vidya and Naseer-he manages to grab all the attention-and no, this wasn't a Bhatt movie. He deserves more such strong roles. Talking about other male lead-Naseeruddin Shah-need I tell anything about him? As an egoist superstar he easily portrays the character with killer lines. Using circumstances pretty well to work in his favor, Naseer is perfect. Him and Vidya makes first half pretty engaging. Not to forget the riot the onliners create. Milan knows what audience loves - ceetee worthy dialogues. And the first half doesn't fall short of them. Though midpoint of second half lacks that punch, but it is understood as the story enters such phase. And still, vidya manages that people get glued to their chairs. This time, not with cleavage but with her act.

Art direction is pretty good. But not as good as we saw in Once Upon a Time in India where 70's era was recreated perfectly. Or may be, its me, born in the 80s, the reason that era did not feel as nostalgic. Vishal Shekhar's score is as perfect on screen, as it sounds on CD. Riot of colors 'ooh la la' is absolutely fun to see on big screen with all the shouts-ceetees around the hall. And, as noted earlier-the writing is not too perfect but works just cause of the punchy lines. The makers claimed that this is not based on Silk Smitha's life, but they have not deviated much from what actually happened to her. A character tells Silk in the movie that 'those who name this as vulgarity, same people will tell this 'freedom' in future'. Yes, the fact Silk Smita faced. Though there are scenes that resembles 'Fashion' and 'Woh Lamhe' too. But the comparisons are hard to avoid. As these stories are told n times. But its the performer-Vidya-who makes all the difference in this one.

Too hard too resist, but using the 'Entertainment' line - The Dirty Picture does what its intention was - it titillates, shocks and to top that - Entertains the audience. And the Entertainment sells, for sure.

Tags : the dirty picture, movie review, silk smitha, vijayalaxmi, reshma ki jawani, download, ooh la la, naseer, emraan hashmi, milan lutharia, bappi lahiri

Players : Music Review

2011-11-30T19:44:00.001+05:30

Expected to be another 'Race', this one is a little bit on the lower side. Starter Jis Jagah Pe Khatam has hangover of title track from Race. But not that catchy. Kyun Dooriyan [as usual] has Three versions. Ritu Pathak's version is slower in pace, perhaps will be used as seductive number. But Siddharth Basrur's one gets you from the first listen. With pacey techno beats this version gets stuck in head. While the third one by Arijit Singh [Fame Gurukul one?] sounds pretty much like KK. Good one though. [But really, what's the point in having 3 versions?? Its a regular Pritam thing nowadays.]

Ho gayi Tunn - a daaru song is foot tapping, but annoying tweaking of voices led me change the track. Only to listen Charlie's song - Buddhi Do Bhagwan. Grrr.. I felt while Abhishek's voice came up. But soon, I got relieved when heard voice of Mohit Chauhan. A Pritam trademark love song. Dil yeh Beqarar kyun hai is charming. Mohit and Shreya perfect it. Same song gets 'Reprise' by Nikhil D'souza and Priyani Vani. Lovely. So, a soundtrack with 2-3 nice tracks is not bad,after all, its for an action movie.

My Picks : Kyun Dooriyaan, Dil Yeh Beqraar Kyun Hai.

Tags : Players songs, Players music, Race, Pritam Chakraborty, Abhishek Bachchan, Sonam Kapoor, Abbas Mustan, Movie, review players, the Italian job

Hosanna & Aaromale : Meaning

2011-11-18T20:53:00.003+05:30

Hosanna..

The word that took me deep down the lanes of love. The song from tamil film VTV [Vinnaithandi Varuvaayaa] that made me fall in love with southie cinema. Though I did not know what does Hosanna mean, but it was Rahman who was behind all that love. Fantabulous song that I can listen to - on repeat mode. And now it is translated into Hindi, for its remake Ek Deewana Tha. The word Hosanna is very much the same in the song, but all other lyrics are in Hindi.

Hosanna is a Hebrew word. Most probably used for the first time in Bible. That means 'Help' or 'Save (me) I pray'. Here in the movie, the hero, crazy for Jessie - crazy for her beauty - uses this word to express the joy - and to describe Jessie's killer looks and prays to save himself not to get killed by her looks.

Well, that's my interpretation.

Another word that remained in the hindi remake - Aaromale !

Aaromale literally means 'Beloved' or 'O Beloved'. Its a Malayalam word.

Outstanding song with great guitar riffs sung by Alphonse Joseph. And the song is not to be missed. Close your eyes and you can see the land of Kerala. That is the level of integration of the song into the movie.

Lets see, what Gautham Menon and Javed Akhtar has in store for us in Hindi VTV - Ek Deewana Tha , that is.

Tags : what does aaromale means, aaromale meaning, aromaale, aaromane, hosana, hossanna, hosaanna, hosanna, Rahman, Gautham Menon, Amy Jackson

Ek Deewana Tha : Theatrical Trailer

2011-11-18T17:08:00.003+05:30

...and its here. The first trailer of Vinnaithandi Varuvaayaa remake - Ek Deewana Tha.

Initial thoughts : Pratiek looks little young to pull off Simbu's role. Amy - I have doubts if she'll be as good as Trisha. But happy to see Taj Mahal as backdrop of this greatest love story. Hindi Hosanna sounds tricky.

*hits repeat mode* Play.

Tags : VTV Remake, YMC Remake, Ye maya chesave, Vinnaithandi varuvaaya, gautham vasudev menon, pratiek babbar, amy jackson, hosanna, songs, ek deewana tha.

Don 2 : Music Review

2011-11-17T22:53:00.001+05:30

Big disappointment. These two words explains it all. When I saw Milliblog giving it a NW1W, I was shocked that it was for an SEL album, but while playing the songs, I realised Karthik was right. The tracks seriously has a hangover of title track from earlier film.

Aa raha hoon palat ke - a dialogue piece has nothin to comment about. Next Zaraa dil ko thaam lo - starts as an Enrique number, with a 'longer than normal' prelude lines, the song got me confused. Vishal's voice tweaked to sound like Shankar's, the song tries hard but falls flat. That mysterious-menacing charm of previous Don, is missing here. Usha Uthup's Hai yeh Maya -a dark mysterious situational track, also fails to catch attention. Finally, in Dushman Mera, we get to hear Shankar, with Sunitha Sarathy. Using all the leftover pieces from Don1, even the epic interlude of Main hoon don [remember, when PC enters the floor wearing red gown !] - is wasted by putting up lyrics onto it.

The King is back - is more of an instrumental piece. Made me miss pulsating tracks by Midival Punditz in Don. And if all this is not enough, title track is re-re-mixed and sung by KK in Mujhko Pehchan lo. Sigh.. missing Shaan here..... Hai Yeh Maya repeats as remix. And again, Mujhko Pehchanlo comes as yet another Remix - with irritating loop of lines 'Don ko pakdna mushkil hi nahi.....'. The Don Waltz is a little relief as we get to hear something else then just dance floor tracks - not so special stuff though.

I seriously hope the tracks are well used in the [expected to be as short as 100 mins long] movie. As a standalone album, it fails. Why oh SEL ? Why? Hope this too shall pass.

Tags : Don 2 songs, review, Farhan Akhtar, Shankar Ehsan Loy, Ehsaan, Shah Rukh Khan, Lara Dutta, Kunal Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra, Hrithik Roshan, Guest, Special appearance, Scene, Don, sequel

Kaafiron Ki Namaaz - Song Contest

2011-11-16T16:23:00.002+05:30

The golden opportunity to be a part of a Hindi film album/soundtrack is here! Yes, our good friend @BhargavSaikia is making a film. Full length feature film called 'Kaafiron Ki Namaaz'. Pretty interesting storyline it has [I will reveal it in future blog posts, soon]. But first is the soundtrack. The makers have announced a contest that gives you an opportunity to get your self-composed, original song featured on the Audio CD of a forthcoming independent Hindi film produced by Lorien Motion Pictures (titled Kaafiron Ki Namaaz).

The winning song will be featured with songs sung by eminent playback singers like Usha Uthup, Javed Ali, Najim Arshad, Kshitij Tarey and other popular singers. And believe me - these songs are really really good. [psst...have heard some of them ;) ]

Individual musicians as well as music bands are welcome to participate in the contest. This is a first-of-its-kind contest in India and it's definitely an opportunity not to be missed ! So spread the word about the contest! Let your musician friends know about it! Don't you want your / your friends' name on a Music CD ??!!

For contest details and to participate, visit Lorien Motion Pictures' Facebook page at

http://www.facebook.com/lorienmotionpictures

PS : No, I'm not paid for this 'looks like paid promotion' blog post. I am blogging about it coz I wanted to. :-)

Ek Deewana Tha : Tracklist

2011-11-16T14:44:00.002+05:30

The tracklist is already here.

And the words really really confusing. I mean how can one translate [or write] O meri sweetie - for Omanna Penne??? Meri Priye for Aaromale sounds equally strange. [Or is it just me who lived with Tamil songs]. Moreover I suppose Main Samjhi Nahin is Mannipayya. Ek Deewana Tha is Vinnaithandi Varuvaaya. [Surprise here is - Rahman himself is singing it !] Ishq mein hum is Anbil Avan. Aankhon ki baatein [should be] Kannukul. And whoa !! Aaromale female version is here too - Mere Priye by Shreya !! And I suppose Uff sitam tere will be inline with Jessie driving me crazy. May be.

Fingers crossed. Crossed. Here is the tracklist.

1. Meri Priye [Alphons Joseph]

2. Hosanna [Rashid Ali]

3. Ek Dewaana Tha [A R Rahman]

4. Ishq Main Hum [Sonu Nigam, Suzanne D'Mello]

5. O Meri Sweetie [Adnan Sami]

6. Aankhon Ki Baatein [Benny Dayal]

7. Main Samjhi Nahin [Shreya Ghoshal, A R Rahman]

8. Mere Priye [Shreya Ghoshal]

+ bonus tracks:

9. Uff..Sittam Tere - Part 1 [Sukhwinder Singh]
10. Uff..Sittam Tere - Part 2 [Rekha Bharadwaj]

Thanks to Gopal on ARRFans group on Yahoo.

Tags : EDT, Ek deewana Tha tracklist, Ek deewana tha songs, Rahman, Rehman, Vinnaithandi Varuvaayaa, remake, Ye Maya Chesave, Mayya, Gautham Vasudev Menon, Pratiek Babbar, Amy Jackson, Hosanna means

Ek Deewana Tha : First Promo [VTV remake]

2011-11-15T09:01:00.003+05:30

Whoa ! Whoa !
Finally, the first look of Ek Deewana Tha [hindi remake of Vinnaithandi Varuvaayaa] is here. And the promo features Hosanna in hindi !!

Personally, I found it little weird. The words. Maybe that's because I have lived on Tamil tracks since two years. Maybe. Hope this will get good publicity, and acceptance in Northern part of India. Many haven't seen the original. Lets see, what Javed Akhtar has written for this magical soundtrack.

btw, the hindi lyrics goes like this [in tune of Ey idhyamm] Dil, hote jo, mere seene mein do,
doosra dil bhi main, tumhe deta todne ko.
Tags : VTV Remake, Gautham Vasudev Menon, Rahman, Hosanna, Hosana, Amy Jackson, Pratiek Babbar

Rockstar : Movie Review

2011-11-11T23:11:00.001+05:30

...and a drop of tear found its way through my cheeks - as the couple hugged on the screen. And the flow of tears continued for next few minutes. But wait - that's not the climax - the jaw dropping, eye watering, heart wrenching intense climax.

Oh well, I am not going to give out even a single spoiler. But can't resist the excitement. Thank God I saved myself from watching anything on TV/Internet, that was being shown. The big screen experience of this Imtiaz+Rahman movie is absolutely exhilarating. Ranbir Kapoor shines throughout the movie and with Rahman's support he carries the movie on his own. He is just so brilliant in each scene. From the small town college boy, to menacing successful 'Negative' Rockstar - Ranbir goes far from his limits and deliver his career best performance here. Loved Loved his act. Nargis Fakhri is the weak link here. Sigh.. how I wish if she could act well, so this can be a Perfect movie. Wonder why Imtiaz insisted on her? [or, may be any other leading actress wasn't willing to act in this 'Jordan' heavy flick?] Another face get noticed is Kumud Mishra as a canteen owner. Such a lively performance he has.

Tonnes of discussions has happened since the music has released, saying 'this is not Rock music'. But hey, who said the movie is a 'rock movie'?. Its a lovestory after all. Lovestory of a Rockstar. Show them this movie, and it will shut their mouth. Imtiaz has weaved the movie around the songs [or vice versa?] so seamlessly, that is the toughest part when you have A R Rahman's score on your hand. Fantastic integration of all the tracks. From the line 'Rang birangee vehmo mein main udta phiroon' to the Dichotomy of Fame - each track is a treat to watch, treat to feel on the big screen. Especially - the Dichotomy of Fame - such an endearing cameo by Late Shammi Kapoor. OMG - I went speechless by the jugalbandi, both-on screen and behind the screen [score].

As Imtiaz always does, he has tried experimenting with screenplay here too. With all zoom-zip-zap editing of flashback and present scenes. That leave the audience confused many times, but still holds the attention. Though the screenplay slips a bit during the mid-way, but again, the awesomeness of climax feels up that dent. Oh, and the cinematography by Anil Mehta - man, Kashmir looks more beautiful with his eyes. So is Prague. And not to forget but the firey choreogrphy without which the movie would have been incomplete.

Man oh man. This movie has rocked me-from inside. A must watch for its powerful act by Ranbir and more powerful songs. Watch watch watch.

Tags : Rockstar movie, Rahman, A R Rahman, Rockstar scenes, Shammi Kapoor, Imtiaz Ali, Kumud Mishra, Movie review rockstar

Don 2 : First song out

2011-11-11T11:06:00.002+05:30

Zara dil ko thaam lo - the first track is out. Composed by Shankar Ehsaan Loy. Initially I did not find the track as appealing as the first Don. [Can't resist the comparisons]. Here is the video.

Tags : Don 2 songs, Don 2 music, don 2 first promo, first song, shankar ehsaan loy, shahrukh khan, farhan akhtar, don 2 mp3

The Dirty Picture : Music Review

2011-10-31T19:59:00.001+05:30

Bappi da, RDB and Pritam. Confusing? OK, these are the sounds that Vishal-Shekhar has created in The Dirty Picture. Starting with the colorful Ooh La La, lyricist Rajat Arora makes sure to put a grin on your face with fun words [in all tracks]. Bappi da is more fun to hear in Ooh la la than Shreya . A total riot. While next Ishq Sufiyana is 'Pritamish' love ballad, fantastically sung by Kamal Khan. But the sound is pretty familiar, instant reminder of songs from Ajay's recent hits [Singham, OUATIM] The song repeats as a female version by Sunidhi. Next Honeymoon ki raat by Sunidhi is another one from genre in which Bappi da rocked - disco. An okay track that should be situational. RDB styled Twinkle Twinkle makes a fun listen because of its lyrics. And oh, that is not Vishal singing with Shreya. Its Rana Mazumdar !

The 70's sound is throughout the album, and why not when its set in that period. Overall, a fun album that should perfectly gel with the movie.

My Favorite : Ishq Sufiana, Ooh La la

Tags : Silk Smitha, Silk Smita, Emraan Hashmi, Imraan Hashmi, Naseeruddin Shah, Tusshar Kapoor, Vishal Dadlani, Bappi Lahiri, Vidya Balan, R D Burman, Laxmikant Pyarelal, Jitendra, Sridevi, Milan Luthriya, The Dirty Picture album, download songs, movie