Suspense and Supernatural thriller hovers over March with BIG Pictures two films ‘Sikandar’ and ‘13B’

January 29th, 2009

BIG Pictures, the motion pictures brand from Reliance Big Entertainment Ltd, brings two enthralling films back to back this March 2009. The suspense thriller ‘Sikandar’ starring Parzaan Dastur (of ‘Parzania’ fame) and Ayesha Kapoor (of ‘Black’ fame) and the supernatural thriller ‘13B’ starring R. Madhavan and Neetu Chandra, the first look of which would be unveiled with ‘Luck By Chance’, the directorial debut of Zoya Akhtar asserted to be released worldwide on 30th January, 2009. BIG Pictures has a slate of 18 films for 2009 of which the three films above are planned for release in the first quarter.

Ecstatic about this New Year’s slate Rajesh Sawhney, President, Reliance Big Entertainment assured –”This year BIG is bringing a variety of cinematic flavours on to celluloid. Beginning with ‘Luck By Chance’ based about slice of life from Bollywood, followed by ‘Sikandar’ and ‘13B’ to hit the theatres this March which will take suspense and thrillers to a whole new level. We have tried to bring in diverse directors, new actors and interesting mix of genres to entice all kinds of audiences in our slate.”

‘13B’, a supernatural thriller is about a middle class youth Manohar and his family living on the 13th floor. The new television show is dissonantly similar to their family and as the show progresses all the happenings in the show takes place in the family too. The film is directed by National Award winning director Vikram K. Kumar. The film has R. Madhavan and Neetu Chandra in the lead roles and Sachin Khedekar, Murali Sharma and Poonam Dhillon as the supporting star cast.

Directed by Piyush Jha ‘Sikandar’ on the other hand is a suspense thriller. The story of a 14 year old schoolboy Sikander living in Kashmir with his uncle and aunt. One day, on his way home from a school football match, Sikandar finds a gun lying on the path which changes his life forever. ‘Sikandar’ is a story about friendship, power, loyalty and triumph. Parzaan Dastur takes on the role of Sikandar after his heart wrenching performance in ‘Parzania’ and IIFA award winner for her exceptional performance in the film ‘Black’, Ayesha Kapoor plays his conscience keeper. Also has R. Madhavan and Sanjay Suri playing pivotal characters in the film.

After the tremendous response for Ghajini and Rock ON in 2008, this year BIG has 18 films stocked up in seven different languages catering to all sorts of audiences, national and international. BIG Pictures is working with a mix bag of directorial talent range from mavericks like Vidhu Vinod Chopra, David Dhawan, Shyam Bengal, Sudhir Mishra and Madhur Bhandarkar to visionaries like Farhan Akhtar and Abhinay Deo along with a fresh pool of budding talent like Zoya Aktar, Piyush Jha, Vikram.

Shruti Hassan to make her ad film debut replacing Amrita Rao

January 29th, 2009

Kamal Hassan and Sarika’s eldest daughter, Shruti Hassan will be making her debut with a TV commercial before the big screen one. Shruti has recently shot for an ice cream commercial for the brand Walls. Her first ever ad campaign features along with her young musician cum actor Raghav Sachar who is known for giving music to films like Kabul Express and One Two Three. However, it is learnt that Shruti has replaced Amrita Rao in the ad campaign.

Our source informs, “This particular TV commercial was earlier supposed to feature Amrita Rao with Pakistani band Jal singer Farhan Saeed. But with the diplomatic relations between India and Pakistan having turned sour post the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks and there being a ban called upon by local political parties on Pakistani artists, the makers thought it would be best to replace the whole concept and rope two totally fresh faces. Shruti was therefore chosen without any audition and since her background too is music, the makers thought a musical personality would suit her perfectly. Musician Raghav who is actually the music director of this very commercial was roped in at the last minute. It is learnt that the post production for the ad is presently on and it shall be on air in a few days time.”

Shruti is presently shooting for Soham Shah’s Luck opposite Imran Khan and also for Leena Yadav’s Teen Patti starring Amitabh Bachchan and R. Madhavan. Raghav who had given music to films like Yash Raj’s Kabul Express and One Two Three is also planning to make a career in acting and has been taking acting classes. He was supposed to star in the Manzar song in Sunday but was replaced by Tusshar Kapoor.

Nandana Sen’s bonding with Amrita Arora

January 29th, 2009

Till now one had only heard about cat fights between two actors especially when it came to the lesser species. But there’s some maha female bonding happening between Nandana Sen and Amrita Arora on the sets of Seasons Greetings. In fact Amrita reminded Nandana of Goldie Hawn. “Amrita’s oomph brought Goldie Hawn’s earlier roles to my mind. Amu is a totally chilled out and fun to work with–and not at all like the imperious diva she plays in the film! As for me I play this simple girl next door whose nose is sunk in a book, But she has an open heart and uncontrollably wild side,” said Nandana Sen.

Pranav MohanLal - One More son Rises in Movies

January 29th, 2009

Lead hero’s heir becoming heroes or heroines at a later date are almost a tradition in Indian film industry.

Malayalam film industry will remember Pranav Mohanlal, who has won the Kerala State award as a child artiste for his performance in the film Punarjani.

Malayalam superstar Mohanlal son Pranav Mohanlal is making his first appearance as an actor opposite his dad in the Mega movie Sagar alias Jackie- Reloaded.

Pranav , who is in 12th standard in a Ooty HEBRON Boarding School is likely to debut as a hero shortly.The scenes of the real life father and son have been shot on the streets of Dubai recently for the movie Sagar alias Jackie- Reloaded.

Mohanlal who was awarded the Padmashree by the Indian Government in 2001 has two children, Pranav Mohanlal and Vismaya Mohanlal.

Jiah's Heart Green For Asin

January 29th, 2009

As of now it’s a common news that Bollywood hottie ‘jiah Khan’ and gorgeous actress Asin not being able to get along during the making of ‘Ghajini’. Rumor has it that Jiah was peeved because Asin had more footage than her and also she was not happy with the promotion of the film because Ghajini was promoting Asin more than her.

Jiah clears the rumors by saying that people know me a little here and Asin needs to get a lot of publicity as it is her Bollywood debut and I don’t have any problem with her. Jiah will be seen next opposite to Shahid Kapoor and the buzz is that she will also work with the king of Bollywood Akshay Kumar.

Well! We hope after the huge success of Ghajini Jiah’s Jiya is not green now for Asin.

Kat, Bebo to rock at Miss India pageant

January 29th, 2009

Miss India Worldwide pageant 2009 is going to be a combination of glitz, glamour and talent. More glamour will be added to the show by serene beauty Katrina Kaif and ravishing Kareena Kapoor and they will be joined by sultry Yana Gupta. They will set the stage on fire by their dynamic performance.

Bollywood actor Deepak Tijori whose company is hosting the show with Kaleidovision, said at a press conference: "There will be a mix of beauty, talent and glamour at the finale of the pageant, with Bollywood beauties shaking a leg with the participants. It will be an evening to remember."

Before the finale, the 20 finalists will go through a 10 days question and answer session. Mehar Bhasin, who will look after the grooming of the contestants has been quoted as saying: "Training is not going to be a cakewalk for them. They will have to go through a tough and hectic regime of around 14 hours a day, which means they cannot take it easy."

Beauty expert Blossom and Samantha Kochhar will take care of the beauty and hair of the contestants while designer duo Rahul and Rohit Gandhi of the label Cue will design their outfits.

January 29th, 2009

The leading lady of Bollywood today, Priyanka Chopra seems to be building a fine working rapport with Rajasthan.

She has shot for her film Drona here, and then she came back in July last year to shoot for a commercial near Jaipur’s Jal Mahal, and now she’s back in Jodhpur again in just six months time to shoot for yet another commercial, this time for a beauty soap brand. Priyanka landed at the Jodhpur airport on Tuesday afternoon amidst heavy security. Our source present at the airport said, “Priyanka landed here around 1 pm. Though a large number of her fans had turned up to greet her and catch a glimpse of their star, she preferred to quickly push through the surging crowd and head for her hotel.” The actress will be in Jodhpur till today. On her earlier visit to Jaipur, Priyanka who was unavailable for comment on Tuesday, had told JT, “I just love the state and the fact that its people are still connected to their cultural roots. I want to go around the place, but my hectic schedule doesn’t allow me to do so.

Why does Neha hate Valentine's Day?

January 29th, 2009

Now when all are gearing up to celebrate this love-ly day, Neha Dhupia seems to be in a different mood altogether.

She tells us that she hates Valentine’s Day. Now let us assure you that everything’s alright between Neha and her boyfriend Ritwik Bhattacharya. Neha just finds the whole thing oh-so-stupid. “I think it’s really a stupid concept. I don’t understand why do we even need to celebrate that day? It’s not a festival to celebrate; so what’s the significance of it,” she asks. But there could be another reason for this hatred. “I was very fat when I was in school,” reveals Neha, “And very ugly, too. Every Valentine’s all girls used to get chocolates except me...” Now, now, that’s one sad story. But how much ever you may hate the day, we’re sure Rits can give you loads of chocolates for all those years that you didn’t get any! Cheer up Neha.

Akki's Hearty Expenses

January 29th, 2009

Akshay Kumar is in a charitable mood. When Akshay learnt that two of his closest friends, actor Manoj Joshi and producer Rakesh Upadhyay were organising a show of Manoj's play Chanakya for the family of late constable Tukaram Ombale, the actor promptly sent a cheque of Rs 5 lakh for Ombale's family.

That's not all. Akshay has also taken the responsibility of educating Ombale's younger daughters Vaishali and Bharti. Ombale lost his life while trying to nab terrorist Ajmal Qasab on the night of 26/11.

Although Akshay did not attend the play as he was busy, he made it a point to send his sister Alka to attend the show. Alka met Tukaram's daughter Vaishali and gave her the cheque.

We tried to get in touch with one of Ombale's elder daughters, Vandana whose husband Rajendra said, "Yes, Akshayji has given us a cheque of Rs 5 lakh. He has also offered financial assistance for Vaishali's as well as Bharti's education. Vaishali is doing her B.Ed while Bharti is a final year B.Com student."

And have they spoken to Akshay after receiving the cheque? "Unfortunately, we have not been able to speak to Akshayji as he has been very busy," said Rajendra.

Manoj Joshi said, "Although Tukaram only had a lathi to fight the terrorist, he did not care for his life even though he knew that Qasab had deadly weapons. Tukaram's bravery should not go unnoticed. Akshay has done what few people would do. I have newfound respect for him."

History rewritten

January 29th, 2009

With 1977, Supreme Star Sarath Kumar returns to playing his favourite dual role of a father and son, besides donning six different looks.

The film marks the debut of admaker GN Dinesh Kumar as director. According to the director, 1977- The History Rewritten will match Hollywood standards of filmmaking.

It is based on a real incident that happened in Tamil Nadu. As far as Sarath Kumar is concerned, I have known him for many years. He plays a very dignified role in the film. He is a hero with a mission! You will know the power of the hero when you watch the movie. Namitha plays a lawyer and has a vital role. Farzana, the second heroine, adds to the oomph factor.”

1977- The History Rewritten will cater to the taste of all sections of audience. Music for the film has been composed by Vidyasagar and cinematography is by Bhoopathy K. The film, which has a risky stunt sequence picturised in Malaysia, has three stunt masters! We hope that stunts are as unique as the title!

Vishal Bharadwaj's Kaminey to release on 5 June

January 29th, 2009

MUMBAI: UTV Motion Pictures' Kaminey, directed by Vishal Bharadwaj, is slated to release on 5 June.

Kaminey will be the first film to release post the IPL championship, which conclude on 29 May. With most filmmakers shying away from releasing their films during the IPL season, Kaminey has grabbed the first Friday, post the championship.

The publicist of the film confirms, "The release date for Kaminey has been locked for 5 June. That's the way Vishal Bharadwaj, the director and producer of the film likes to operate. Everything is in place and we have been able to follow all schedules, be it during shooting and or during post production which is going on now."

The month of March is a not a lucrative time to release films as exams hold centre stage. And now with the IPL matches starting from the second week of April, people in India will hardly be going to the theatres to see films.Kaminey has Shahid Kapur and Priyanka Chopra in lead roles.

Post(er)-script

January 28th, 2009

THE story goes that when Akshay Kumar asked director Nikhil Advani for the script of Chandni Chowk To China (CC2C) he showed him the movie poster. (For those who can't remember the poster, it shows Akshay in a Chinese get up with two swords which resemble kebab sticks!) When Akshay asked Advani what was the idea of the story, Advani again showed him the poster while admitting he neither has a script nor an idea.

He just had the poster.

To this, Akshay is supposed to have said, "Congratulations, this is a new way of working. I really like the poster, it's great, and I'm going to work in your film." And that sealed the fate of CC2C.

In his pre-release publicity blitzkrieg, Akshay told this story with unbridled excitement. Many termed him as cocky or overconfident but in my opinion, he was being honest. Come on, a top star rarely admits that the script is the last priority when he green lights a project. It must have taken huge courage on Akshay's part to admit that he gambled Rs 40 crore on a poster of a film. And for that reason itself Akshay deserves an honesty badge.

Akshay 'adopts' 6 wrestlers

January 28th, 2009

Mumbai : Bollywood action star Akshay Kumar has 'adopted' six wrestlers, who are economically backward, in a bid to popularise the sport, an official said.

"Akshay's decision came days before the 10th All India Wrestling Championship opens here on February 1. Participants and lovers of this sport from all over India are expected to gather here," said Sanjay Nirupam, Congress spokesman in Maharashtra and organiser of the event.

"Last year, when Akshay attended the programme, he had publicly expressed a desire to adopt a few wrestlers to encourage more to take up the ancient Indian sport. We are happy that he has honoured the commitment," Nirupam told.

Nirupam introduced six of the year's best wrestlers to Akshay and the star readily accepted the proposal. The wrestlers are - Bipin Varma, Ajay Yadav, Kallu Yadav, Gopal Yadav (all from Mumbai), Amol Patil (Jalgaon) and Ranjeet Nalawade (Kolhapur). Nirupam said that the 'adoption' means that Akshay will sponsor their diet for the next five years.

"Wrestlers usually hail from economically backward sections and are unable to afford the specialised diet to excel in the challenging sport. Akshay's sponsorship will go a long way in helping these six wrestlers confidently tackle domestic and international challenges, including the next Olympics - our prime target," Nirupam explained.

Kareena Kapoor to receive an award from Erin Brokovich

January 28th, 2009

Bollywood's eternal heartthrob Kareena Kapoor must surely be on cloud nine these days for reasons more than one. If you thought that her film 3 Idiots (her dream come true film with Aamir Khan) tops her list, then, its time for you to rearrange the 'toppings', as Bebo will now be presented an award for her contribution to art and cinema in February, by none other than the world-renowned environmental activist Erin Brokovich!

For starters, Erin Brokovich is an American legal clerk and an environmentalist despite no formal education in law. One may also recollect that the Hollywood hottie Julia Roberts had played the title of 'Erin' in the Hollywood flick Erin Brokovich, which fetched Julia an award for the Best Actress, no less!

To present the award to Kareena, Erin is reported to be air dashing to Mumbai. Needless to say, life couldn't have just been better for the Kareena girl!

Pokkiri remake to outdo Ghajini

January 28th, 2009

Director Prabhu Deva is now trying to complete the post production work of his Salman Khan-Ayesha Takia starrer Wanted, a remake of his Tamil film Pokkiri.

The Hindi version has Vinod Khanna playing Salman's father. Prabhu Deva, who has reportedly decided to take a break from Tamil films, has also announced that he is not interested in playing hero again.

This means that he will not be doing Thankar Bachchan's new film. Prabhu and Salman are planning to promote their film aggressively by appearing on all television channels this summer. Prabhu Deva vows to make this film even bigger than Ghajini, the remake of the Tamil super hit movie by the name same.

I am happy I saw failure early in life: Adhyayan

January 28th, 2009

You just turned 21... you can get married now? Yes, I know I can finally get married now, but fortunately I got married to my work two years ago! And it’s going pretty strong. It’s an amazing gift to receive the first print of your film on your birthday, because it was coincidentally the date when I got to watch the complete film for the first time. What was it like working with girlfriend Kangna Ranaut in Raaz, The Mystery Continues? Kangna is the most special person in my life. She is superbly talented and beautiful. It was a dream to work with an actor of her calibre. She is so dedicated and hardworking. It was such a good learning experience. You were quite upset with the way your role in your first film Haal-e-Dil turned out? I think it will be stupid of me to say I regret doing Haal-e-Dil because I did learn a lot from that experience and I think that learning will stand me in good stead. In fact, I feel blessed. And I am happy that I saw failure at the very first step of my life and inshallah now I will cherish my success with Raaz, The Mystery Continues, even more. You term your second film as your debut film... Yes, of course, in Haal-e-Dil I was only there for five minutes so it was really a cameo. Raaz... is my first opportunity to essay a full-fledged role, and so in many ways, yes, I consider this my real debut. Yours is a negative role... It’s about a character with shades of grey. And that’s what real people are like. They’re not black or white. They have a complex mix of good and bad characteristics. I certainly would not consider it a negative role, but a very interesting, even thought-provoking one. I’ve enjoyed every moment while the film was being made. How much does your dad Shekhar Suman help you with your career? He is my inspiration. I think I am what I am purely because of him. He is an amazing father and a fantastic actor, singer and producer. I have the deepest respect for him. He is always there to support me and help me out with my scripts, roles and everything related to work. I feel deep gratitude to have such an experienced and intelligent person offering me such unconditional support.

Shahrukh launches new show on television

January 28th, 2009

Mumbai : Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan launched a new show on television, a weekly sitcom Ghar Ki Baat Hai on Tuesday here.

Produced by Sharukhs production house, Red Chillies Entertainment Private Limited, the show is directed by Anant Mahadevan and Bhavana Sresht.

The cast of the show includes Sumeet Raghavan, Juhi Babbar, Swapnil Joshi, Ali Asgar, Jayati Bhatia and Deven Munjal.

The show is said to be based on the countrys first sitcom Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi of 80s, which remains one of the biggest hits on Indian television till date.

According to Shahrukh Khan, the show is not a copy but a tribute to Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi.

“I think the originality of this soap opera will depend on its presentation. Times have changed, so the way of presentation is also different, Shahrukh said while talking to reporters after the launch ceremony.

The show will be on air from January 30 on NDTV Imagine channel.