From long time there was srong buzz in the industry that the bubbly and beautiful actress Genelia D’ Souza has been in close relationship with her long time friend Ritiesh Deshmukh. But both of them denied the reports of both of them being in love and said that they are just friends.

Now the latest buzzes spreading in the industry is that Genelia was secretly married to her love Ritesh in a private function very secretly. But denying these latest rumors Genelia claimed “I am not married to anyone. Whether I am in love with Ritesh or not is a personal matter. I don’t want to go into it. Rumours about women actors have become common, but the mention of marriage has complicated matters.

If I am marrying someone I don’t have to do it in secret. I am not a coward. I shall publicly announce before I get married.”

Let’s wait, time will make everything gets clearer and all will come out.

Jagapathi Babu, Vimala Raman starrer‘Gaayam 2’ which has created much hype as it is a sequel of  RGV’s earlier block buster film Gaayam is hitting the silver screens today.

Being presented by Ram Gopal Varma, the film is being directed by Praveen Sriand and is being produced byDr.Dharmakartha under the banner,‘Kartha Creations’. The film has music by Ilayaraja who had scored for its prequel too and it was released recently and going good in the market. Lyrics are penned by Bhaskar Bhatla, Anantha Sriram, Vanamali and Kaluva Krishna Sai. Gandham Nagraju has penned the dialogues; Anil Bhandari handled the cinematography and Praaveen is the editor of the film. The other cast and crew of the film includes Kota Srinivasa Rao, Thanikella Bharani, Kota Prasad, etc.

Handsome hero Siddharth andPraneetha starrer family entertainer‘Bava’ has completed its entire shooting part except for one song which will be choreographed by ace choreographer, actor cum director Prabhudeva. Currently the post production works were on and are progressing at rapid pace. The makers are planning to release the audio very shortly.

Chakri is composing the tunes while Aravind Krishna handles the camera. It is being directed by a debutant Rambabu and produced by ML Padmakumar Chowdary.

Siddharth, Shruthi Haasan’s new socio fantasy film under is heading towards completion. It is being directed by K Prakash Rao while Raghavendra Raoand Walt Disney Company are producing this film under A Belly Full of Dreams Entertainment Pvt. Ltd(ABODE) banner. The film-makers are planning to release the film in the early 2011.

The latest news is that a title‘Anaganaga Oka Dheerudu’ has been registered in the Film Chamber of Commerce and the final confirmation is yet to be made.

The story is all about a kingdom ‘Angarajyam’ and its people and their approach. Sources say “A witch (Manchu Lakshmi) tries to sabotage the kingdom “Angarajyam” and in the process a nine year old (Baby Harshita) becomes important and the hero (Siddharth) puts all his efforts to save the child from the ill effects of the witch. Shruti Hassan plays the role of a gypsy girl who falls in love with hero.”

Mohan Babu’s daughter, Manchu Laxmi Prasanna will be seen in a negative role in the film and the other supporting cast of the film includes Baby Harshita, Dr Brahmanandam, Allari Ravi Babu, Ali, etc.

Actress as well as producer Bhoomika’snew flick ‘Thakita Thakita’ is hitting the big screens today. The movie is being directed by Srihari Nanu and he is confident about the film success as he comes out with a different concept which will be accepted by everyone. Blue Sky Cinemas Inc has bagged the film overseas rights.

The film introduces 6 new actors, actresses to Telugu film industry. The film is being produced by Bharat Thakur under the banner, ‘Downtown Films’ banner. He says that the actors were selected from 7 different zones across the country and were offered proper training in acting for about 6 months. The movie has Bhoomika, Nagarjuna andAnushka playing the guest roles. ‘Thakita Thakita’ has music by Bobo Shashi which is receiving good response from the audiences.

Let’s hope the film too get the good response from the audience as well as at the box office.

Film: “Happy Happyga”;

Cast: Varun Sandesh, Vega, Sharanya Mohan, Ali and others;

Producer: Durgaprasad Vadlamudi;

Director: Priya Sharan;

Music: Mani Sharma;

Camera: Venki;

What has happened to Varun Sandesh after a great start in films like “Happy Days” and “Koththa Bangaru Lokam”? This question is sure to strike viewers when watching a torturous film like “Happy Happyga” which drags on interminably from the first reel. The proceedings becomes unbearable till the last few minutes where the director adds some twists in the narrative. But then the film ends with a tame climax, leaving viewers feeling terribly disappointed with this much hyped film.

Newbie director Priya Sharan, who has written the story, has shown lack of imagination in crafting this film. This film can be slotted as the most boring ever in recent times in the Telugu film industry. The storyline lacks logic, the narration is vapid and the so-called comedy sequences look very cheap. The director has also failed to get decent performances from the artists.

The only saving grace of is Mani Sharma’s music compositions and some good lyrics penned by Sirivennela Seetharama Shashtry. Otherwise the film is half baked and clearly a big let down.

The story: Santhosh manages a company that wants to keep everybody happy. He meets a US returned girl Pooja and wants to love her. But Pooja does not believe in the concept of love marriage as she has been shattered with the early divorce of her parents. Santhosh comes up with a plan to woo Pooja and hands over a bunch of love letters which have been written to his dream lover. He also identifies that dream girl. Pooja takes Santhosh’s love letters to the dream girl Priya and tries to convince her to marry Santhosh. Priya is the sister of underworld don Suri.

Suri compels Santhosh to marry his sister as she is affected by a terminal disease. What happens later forms the rest of the story.

The two heroines – Vega and Sharanya Mohan – have such limited scope in their roles that you wonder why such talented artists have been wasted in the film. Varan Sandesh himself comes out as an actor who is yet to perfect his Telugu accent. His expressions leaves much to be desired. Vega looks attractive, but her performance in the role of Pooja is below even ordinary levels. Sharanya Mohan looks decent. The dubbing done for the two girls is flawed. Ali’s comedy provides some relief but at times it stretches too much.

The camera work is ordinary. Mani Sharma comes out with some good tunes. The technical work is ordinary compared to the standards seen in Telugu films.

“Happy Happyga” is an ordinary flick and can be seen only if there is no other better alternative.

Cast: Reshmi, Aadith, Gia umar, Narayan, Sharran, Benaas, Vimal
Director: K.V. Guhan
Cinematographer: K.V. Guhan
Producer: Prakashraj
Banner: Duet Movies
Music Director: Mickey J. Meyer

It’s a promise well-kept! If you’ve paid attention to all the promo activities for the movie, you already know producer Prakashraj says Inidhu Inidhu is an emotional movie that will remind you of your college days. And if you’re in college right now, there’s a lot about the movie that rings true. That’s what really makes Inidhu Inidhu (remake of the Telugu hit Happy Days) an entertainer worth watching.

“I just wanted it to be a peek into the college life of a bunch of kids,” says Prakashraj, and that’s precisely what it is. Nothing more and in no way less.

What is it about?

The story starts on Day 1 of college. Seven teenagers from varying backgrounds take the big step – out of school and into college – with their personal reservations and expectations. Each character is sketched in a different hue. Sugary sweet Madhu, a typical boy next door Sidhu, tomboy Appu, gal-crazy Vimal, radically bold Sangitha, reserved and studious Sharan, and do-gooder nerd Arvind aka Tyson. Chance brings them together on the very first day, and thus begins a fluctuating friendship with ups and downs, continuing for the next four years of their college lives. A feel-good movie through and through, so we know the obstacles will clear away sooner or later.

From scene one, you know who’s meant for who; it’s only a matter of time before the characters realize it. Meantime, it’s clean fun and mild twists.

Arvind’s the only one in the gang without a gal. But why? Because he’s got his heart set on a senior gal, Shravs, which his seniors are unable to digest! But even before the gang is formed, they meet their seniors for the tradition: ragging. Arjun, the senior who lays his eyes on Madhu and fixates on her, is one good-looking bad boy! Had he had not been quite the obsessive senior, Madhu may have even melted in his arms! But that’s another imaginary line altogether. By irritating her and eventually getting slapped by Siddhu, Arjun primarily serves to bring Madhu and Siddhu together. This is essentially the first turning point in the film, after the characters have been introduced and their friendship established.

Obviously the slighted senior wants revenge. He gathers a few cronies and one night, when the four junior boys are returning from Madhu’s birthday party, they strike. Siddhu, Arvind and Vimal get a sound beating. Sharan escapes because one of the seniors is Sangitha’s brother. We see that Sharan is not a friend to be trusted in one’s hour of need. The beaten junior boys decide to take up the issue with the management, but the student body leader suggests a T20 match to solve the differences. We all know who wins, so the ragging stops.

What follows? More scenarios familiar to college students – a trip out of town, the first kiss, crush on the prettiest ma’am on the block, exams, tiffs over the results, betrayal in love, betrayal in friendship and so on. How the gang members settle their differences, endure separation and then get back together is what the rest of the story is about – ending exactly on the eve of their farewell, leaving it to us to figure out the rest. It’s just like Prakashraj promised, a peek and no more.

The Performance

One character that truly makes an impact is Arvind, the ultimate friend one can meet at college. His character – the innately brilliant kid, who doesn’t need to study to top the class – is probably the best-developed in the movie. But that’s not the impressive part about him. It’s the unconditional way he loves and cares for his friends that really moves you. Another interesting aspect to his character is the way he loves and adores Shravs. His is a romance doomed from the beginning, and yet the childlike way he pursues her is beautifully brought out. Arvind may not be the hunk on the block, but he truly is the sweetest guy around.

One character that lacks depth is Sangitha. While the story focuses on her lover Sharan, it does not develop her character. We figure out that Sharan is the guy who will sell out his buddies to save himself, but no matter what anyone says, he loves and trusts his girl. But Sangitha and her reason for being the way she is, her attitude towards the gang, her feelings for Sharan… these are not dealt with enough, making her character shallow and unmemorable.

The Music

Music is by Mickey Meyer, who scored the music for the original (Happy Days) as well. He has retained a similar style of music in Inidhu Inidhu – leaning towards melody. The tracks ‘Inidhu Inidhu’ and ‘Vaazhkai Oru’ are sure faves of melody lovers. ‘Inbam Ethirilae’ is a peppy number dedicated to Michael Jackson. The stars have even tried to emulate the late Pop Icon in their dance; since it’s a tribute, we refrain from criticism!

The Technique

In terms of direction and cinematography, K.V. Guhan has done a fab job in this very honest film. Without trying to outdo himself or prove a point, he has taken a lovely story and made an entertaining movie out of it, one that will have a very personal impact on audiences. Every person is bound to react to the movie in his or her own way, relating to certain characters or scenes more – which is the biggest success of the film. Cinematography is picture perfect. The colours and lighting enhance the general cheery and youthful mood of the film.

As a producer, Prakashraj has once more brought out a quality piece of art. It may not be as touching as Mozhi or as moving as Abiyum Naanum, but it certainly has charm of its own – one that is sure to sing to your soul, bringing forth happy memories.

Review by Kaanchan B.

Production: M.K. Thamizharasu
Direction: Pandiraj
Star-casts: Arulnidhi, Sunaina, Jayaprakash, Kishore, Ganja Karuppu and others
Music: Taj Noor
Cinematography: Mahesh Muthusamy

Last week’s release ‘ Baana Kaathadi ’ introduced a new actor Atharva showcasing his potentials in a film that was a cliched romantic tale. On the pars, this Friday’s ‘ Vamsam ’ is based on a hackneyed plot of nativity film that revolves around clashes between few lineages in the village. Pandiraj debuted with an innovative conceptualization in ‘Pasanga’ and this time hasn’t got anything special to offer.

Centered in the backdrops of a distant village in Tamil Nadu, the film delineates about 11 different lineages in the place. Specifically, it revolves around three characters Anbarasu ( Arulnidhi ), Malar ( Sunaina ) and an elder person (Pasanga, Nadodigal fame Jayaprakash) belonging to various lineages. For the next couple of hours, the film touches the lines of conflicts, enmities and settling of scores between these families.

Director Pandiraj made a promising start with ‘ Pasanga ’ that was a wholesome entertainer with fun, frolic and a good message. On contrary, ‘’Vamsam’ spheres into a usual arenas of romance, fun and hostilities. The first half is completely entertaining as the screenplay is very racy and keeps us occupied for 90mins. But the second half turns to be little sluggish as Pandiraj pulls the threadbare narration of a long flashback and predictable climax with an interesting twist.

Arulnidhi takes off with a better start by doing justice to his role. The new actor seems to have taken extra care over projecting himself best on his character.

If he can choose the best scripts in mere future and exceptional roles, he can go ahead adding more feathers to his cap. Sunaina deserves praises as she gets under the skin of her characterization. It’s better and appreciable if she can choose such meaty roles. Jayaprakash spells an overpowering performance as a baddie while Kishore as usual wins the praises. Ganja Karuppu’s comedy tracks are enjoyable.

On the technical parts, Taj Noor’s musical score sounds more loud and vitriolic; especially the background doesn’t match the visuals. Mahesh Muthusamy’s cinematography is bright and top-notching. Editing trivializes the visual enhancements as there are some discontinuities in transition.

Usage of cell phones over the top of trees, project of festivals and describing the qualities of culture and Asin – the cow cupid engrosses the audiences. If Pandiraj had tried to invent something new with the screenplay during second half, the film would have been far better. The filmmaker could have limited himself from establishing his overdosed brilliancies of presenting more infotainment on village, different lineages, newfangled murdering and its pre-n-post dramas.

What works: First half, Star-casts, Cinematography, Direction
What doesn’t work: Second half, too much details, music, editing and predictable screenplay
Verdict: Watch it once

Main Cast: Balaji Balakrishnan, Meghana Raj, Sabesh Karthik
Direction: Boopathy Pandian
Camera: Rana
Music: Yuvan Shankar Raja
Producer: Jayakumar and Meena Jayakumar

Comedy and romance are the biggest strength of Boopathy Pandian. He proved it in his previous films like Devadayai Kandein and Thiruvilayadal Aarambam. Once again he has come out with a same formula. Kadhal Solla Vandhen speaks about a boy’s desperate love for a girl, who is 2 years elder than him. Though it begins as a routine commercial style in a college campus, it takes twists and turns and ends on an interesting note.

Buzz up!
Prabhu (Balaji), is a fun-loving, happy-go-lucky guy, who always loves to tease others. But all of a sudden, he completely changes his thought process and falls in love at first sight with Sandhya (Meghana Raj). He starts loving her without even knowing her name or any other details. Things starts getting worser when he realizes that Sandhya is 2 years elder to him. But, Prabhu finally decides to stick on his love and decides her to win at any cost. What happens next should be seen on-screen.

Though the film starts comically, it gets a bit serious towards the climax. Balaji has shown maturity in the film and his performance is better in this flick than his debut film Pattalam. Sabesh Karthik is refreshing and gives a relief through his lively comedy. His body language and dialogue delivery evokes instant laughter. Meghana Raj looks like Nayanthara in some angles. She is gorgeous and its tailor made role for her. The plus point of the film, is the outstanding music of Yuvan Shankar Raja and photography of Rana. K.L. Praveen and N.B. Srikanth’s Editing is okay. The drawback of the film is climax, which is a predictable one. Director could have handled it better. Nonetheless, Kadhal Solla Vandhen is a time pass movie.

Verdict: Above Average

Earlier rumors buzz around white milky beauty Tamannaah that she has been demanding Rs. one crore as remuneration to act in a movie, but later she denied them as silly rumors. Now once again the same news is making rounds in the industry on this beauty.

Giving further clarification on these rumors making around her, the actress says “My salary is decided by market forces and not by me or anyone else. Normally a film’s budget is fixed based on the market value of the cast and crew working in it. So producers decide my salary considering these factors and never had I demanded high remuneration from them.”

Tamannaah adds further “I get what I deserve. And I always try to add the best possible value to the movie in which I am acting. Because, a lot of investment is being made to make each and every film.”