Friday, January 13, 2012
Don't want to only do remakes: Hrithik Roshan
Hrithik Roshan is working in a remake for the first time, but the
Bollywood heartthrob is determined not to continue with the genre
post-"Agneepath". As far as comparison goes with the original, he is
unperturbed.
"I don't want to do remakes only. My premise is that I should not do remakes. Earlier, I didn't even want to hear about it. Now at least I will hear it," Hrtihik told IANS in an interview.
Filmmaker Karan Johar decided to give a makeover to his dad Yash Johar's 1990 production venture "Agneepath", in which Amitabh Bachchan gave one of his best performances as Vijay Deenanath Chahuhan and won a national award.
Karan roped in Hrihik to play the protagonist and with "Agneepath" ready to hit screens Jan 26, expectations are high and people are likely to compare Hrithik with Amitabh. But he is unruffled and believes that "if you do something in your own way, in your individual way, then it will stand out. People will not compare."
The 38-year-old's performance was critically acclaimed in films like "Jodhaa Akbar" and "Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara" and he even gave blockbusters like "Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai", "Krrish" and "Dhoom 2".
Despite having such an impressive body of work, he says he can't "act".
He said: "My premise is that I can only act well if I am in that character. I have to know everything about my character. If I am not living it, then I can't act. If you ask me to imitate or act, I can't do it. Others can because they have that talent. I can't act, so I am bad actor."
The new age Vijay Deenanath Chahuhan says shooting for the climax, which is full of blood and gore, was the most difficult part of the movie, helmed by first-time director Karan Malhotra, a former assistant of Karan Johar.
"The climax was shot in Diu and throughout I had to fight with Sanjay Dutt with a bare and bleeding body and the shoot went on for 22 days. It ended up being the toughest schedule of my life," said Hrithik.
If the "Agneepath" promos are creating curiosity, the new villian in B-town - Sanjay Dutt - has grabbed the limelight with his scary look.
Sanjay's look has scared not just the audiences but Hrithik too.
"Once during the shoot Sanjay Dutt gave me such a harsh look that I was taken aback. I thought is this Sanjay Dutt? I was like what's happening," he said.
"In the beginning audiences would feel that it's impossible and Vijay is nothing. If it would have looked easy, then you would not enjoy the journey."
Hrithik was quite sceptical before signing the film, but the strong script convinced him to get on board.
"Karan Johar being a friend forced me and asked me to read the script. When I read the script I was shocked. As an actor it touched me. I was defenceless. I had no reason to say no," said the actor who has teamed up with Priyanka Chopra in the movie.
"I don't want to do remakes only. My premise is that I should not do remakes. Earlier, I didn't even want to hear about it. Now at least I will hear it," Hrtihik told IANS in an interview.
Filmmaker Karan Johar decided to give a makeover to his dad Yash Johar's 1990 production venture "Agneepath", in which Amitabh Bachchan gave one of his best performances as Vijay Deenanath Chahuhan and won a national award.
Karan roped in Hrihik to play the protagonist and with "Agneepath" ready to hit screens Jan 26, expectations are high and people are likely to compare Hrithik with Amitabh. But he is unruffled and believes that "if you do something in your own way, in your individual way, then it will stand out. People will not compare."
The 38-year-old's performance was critically acclaimed in films like "Jodhaa Akbar" and "Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara" and he even gave blockbusters like "Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai", "Krrish" and "Dhoom 2".
Despite having such an impressive body of work, he says he can't "act".
He said: "My premise is that I can only act well if I am in that character. I have to know everything about my character. If I am not living it, then I can't act. If you ask me to imitate or act, I can't do it. Others can because they have that talent. I can't act, so I am bad actor."
The new age Vijay Deenanath Chahuhan says shooting for the climax, which is full of blood and gore, was the most difficult part of the movie, helmed by first-time director Karan Malhotra, a former assistant of Karan Johar.
"The climax was shot in Diu and throughout I had to fight with Sanjay Dutt with a bare and bleeding body and the shoot went on for 22 days. It ended up being the toughest schedule of my life," said Hrithik.
If the "Agneepath" promos are creating curiosity, the new villian in B-town - Sanjay Dutt - has grabbed the limelight with his scary look.
Sanjay's look has scared not just the audiences but Hrithik too.
"Once during the shoot Sanjay Dutt gave me such a harsh look that I was taken aback. I thought is this Sanjay Dutt? I was like what's happening," he said.
"In the beginning audiences would feel that it's impossible and Vijay is nothing. If it would have looked easy, then you would not enjoy the journey."
Hrithik was quite sceptical before signing the film, but the strong script convinced him to get on board.
"Karan Johar being a friend forced me and asked me to read the script. When I read the script I was shocked. As an actor it touched me. I was defenceless. I had no reason to say no," said the actor who has teamed up with Priyanka Chopra in the movie.
I felt I was not worthy enough to do 'Krrish 3', says Hrithik
In 'Koi Mil Gaya', a science-fiction, he played a mentally challenged
individual, which seemed like a risk but Hrithik pulled it off with
ease. Then came 'Krrish', which claimed to be Bollywood's first
superhero movie and had Hrithik jumping around in trenchcoat and a mask.
It was an instant hit with kids. But while shooting for 'Krrish 3',
Hrithik got injured badly at the Filmistan Studios after he fell down.
Earlier, he was also admitted to Breach Candy hospital as he had injured
his back while shooting for 'Agneepath'.
"My dad was like should we make 'Krrish' now or not should we make it in 2013 but I was sure that if we don't make it now then it will not happen. We had taken dates of everyone. After two years we had reached here and if we don't start now then it will not happen. So we had to start and I get to get into right shape," Hrithik said in a interview.
With injuries, it seemed that the actor was not able to cope up with the training for the sequel. Despite all this, for 'Krrish 3', Hrithik went ahead. "I had to get into best shape health wise. I had to achieve a pain free body, I am like damaged goods...knee, elbow, shoulder.. all injured..," he said.
"It is a good thing that people think of me as a superhero. Two months back I did not feel like superhero. I took my 'Krrish' jacket it did not fit me, I was like I am not worthy enough to do 'Krrish' so to make myself worthy, I hunted for best trainers from UK...I had ten weeks of transformation. I lost 10 kgs in 10 weeks," he said.
"Earlier, I was like I can't do action because of the slip disc..back problem I felt it was over...what to do there was depression..I used to smoke a lot. But then I thought I had to improve my health," he said. Hrithik also showed keen interest in playing the villain for 'Krrish 3', which is now essayed by Vivek Oberoi.
"When I heard the script I wanted to play the hero and the villain. I wanted to play double role. I pushed dad to let me do both things..I nudged him...I used to tell him there is no actor to do it. But then he was like we will get someone and he signed Vivek. When I saw him (Vivek) giving the shot he was too good in that role. I couldn't have done justice to it. I am happy my father stopped me from doing it," Hrithik said.
Also, the actor feels, this is the best script his father Rakesh Roshan has written. "This is my father's best picture till date. Colors, songs, item songs, action etc are decoration...script is more important...anything else is decoration. I have confident in the script," he said. On why it is called 'Krrish 3', he said, "First came Koi Mil Gaya, then Krrish and now we have another sqeuel so its a journey of three films." The film featuring Hrithik, Priyanka Chopra, Kangana Ranuat and Vivek Oberoi will hit cinema houses this month.
"My dad was like should we make 'Krrish' now or not should we make it in 2013 but I was sure that if we don't make it now then it will not happen. We had taken dates of everyone. After two years we had reached here and if we don't start now then it will not happen. So we had to start and I get to get into right shape," Hrithik said in a interview.
With injuries, it seemed that the actor was not able to cope up with the training for the sequel. Despite all this, for 'Krrish 3', Hrithik went ahead. "I had to get into best shape health wise. I had to achieve a pain free body, I am like damaged goods...knee, elbow, shoulder.. all injured..," he said.
"It is a good thing that people think of me as a superhero. Two months back I did not feel like superhero. I took my 'Krrish' jacket it did not fit me, I was like I am not worthy enough to do 'Krrish' so to make myself worthy, I hunted for best trainers from UK...I had ten weeks of transformation. I lost 10 kgs in 10 weeks," he said.
"Earlier, I was like I can't do action because of the slip disc..back problem I felt it was over...what to do there was depression..I used to smoke a lot. But then I thought I had to improve my health," he said. Hrithik also showed keen interest in playing the villain for 'Krrish 3', which is now essayed by Vivek Oberoi.
"When I heard the script I wanted to play the hero and the villain. I wanted to play double role. I pushed dad to let me do both things..I nudged him...I used to tell him there is no actor to do it. But then he was like we will get someone and he signed Vivek. When I saw him (Vivek) giving the shot he was too good in that role. I couldn't have done justice to it. I am happy my father stopped me from doing it," Hrithik said.
Also, the actor feels, this is the best script his father Rakesh Roshan has written. "This is my father's best picture till date. Colors, songs, item songs, action etc are decoration...script is more important...anything else is decoration. I have confident in the script," he said. On why it is called 'Krrish 3', he said, "First came Koi Mil Gaya, then Krrish and now we have another sqeuel so its a journey of three films." The film featuring Hrithik, Priyanka Chopra, Kangana Ranuat and Vivek Oberoi will hit cinema houses this month.
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Hrithik Roshan celebrates birthday with family and friends Hrithik Roshan turned 38 on January 10. ... Sonakshi's 'Lootera' to be released on Oct 26
ashing in on the success of films releasing on 'Eid' the makers of Ranveer Singh-Sonakshi Sinha starrer 'Lootera' are all set to release the film on Bakri Eid, on October 26.
Eid is considered a lucky time for Salman Khan, as his previous three films 'Wanted' (2009), 'Dabangg' (2010) and 'Bodyguard' (2011) managed to cash in on the festival hype and rake in the moolah at the box office.
Salman's 2012's Eid release is Aditya Chopra's 'Ek Tha Tiger' with Katrina Kaif. Interestingly, Sonakshi, who made her acting debut opposite Salman in 'Dabangg', also finds Eid lucky for her.
Reportedly, Sonakshi had asked the makers of this film to release the movie on Eid as she considers it as auspicious day for her. However, the Eid slot is already blocked by Salman for 'Ek Tha Tiger' and to play it safe, the makers of 'Lootera' have decided to release the film on Eid-ul-Zuha.
"Lootera is set to release on October 26, which is Bakri Eid. And looks like an extremely good day to release the film. Sonakshi Sinha had an outing last year for 'Dabangg' on Eid," producer Vikas Bahl said. 'Lootera' a classic love story set in the 1950s, is directed by Vikramaditya Motwane of 'Udaan' fame.
Eid is considered a lucky time for Salman Khan, as his previous three films 'Wanted' (2009), 'Dabangg' (2010) and 'Bodyguard' (2011) managed to cash in on the festival hype and rake in the moolah at the box office.
Salman's 2012's Eid release is Aditya Chopra's 'Ek Tha Tiger' with Katrina Kaif. Interestingly, Sonakshi, who made her acting debut opposite Salman in 'Dabangg', also finds Eid lucky for her.
Reportedly, Sonakshi had asked the makers of this film to release the movie on Eid as she considers it as auspicious day for her. However, the Eid slot is already blocked by Salman for 'Ek Tha Tiger' and to play it safe, the makers of 'Lootera' have decided to release the film on Eid-ul-Zuha.
"Lootera is set to release on October 26, which is Bakri Eid. And looks like an extremely good day to release the film. Sonakshi Sinha had an outing last year for 'Dabangg' on Eid," producer Vikas Bahl said. 'Lootera' a classic love story set in the 1950s, is directed by Vikramaditya Motwane of 'Udaan' fame.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Sunday, January 08, 2012
Players review by Taran Adarsh
Players
By
Taran Adarsh, 6 Jan 2012
It's
a given that hi-voltage action thrillers enthrall and electrify viewers
no end. The existing inclination within the industry is to opt for
remakes [of South Indian films specifically], though Abbas-Mustan have
continuously, in their three decade career, tilted towards western
thrillers to be specific. PLAYERS, their latest offering, is the
official remake of THE ITALIAN JOB. But it's not a scene to scene
adaptation of the classic that was attempted twice in the West. The core
conception remains the same, but the screenplay is amended
significantly to suit the Indian sensibilities.
A recreation or adaptation always leads to comparisons with the original work. And Abbas-Mustan will have to pass this acid test, since THE ITALIAN JOB is no regular film. Made twice in Hollywood [first in 1969 and then in 2003], THE ITALIAN JOB is a heist film with a variation. Like I pointed out earlier, PLAYERS is an altered version of THE ITALIAN JOB, catering more to the desi sensibilities. It's about a gang of skillful, stylish and sharp players who join hands to carry out a heist. Prepare yourself for a masala film with ample twists and turns, stunning and gorgeous locales, stylized stunts and adrenaline-pumping chases, lots of style and attitude and of course, the mandatory songs and comic sequences... In that respect, PLAYERS is in a completely different zone when one draws parallels with THE ITALIAN JOB.
One more clarification! When the promos of PLAYERS came on air, a lot of people felt that it seemed like an updated version of DHOOM. But let's spell this out at the very onset: There's no similitude between PLAYERS and DHOOM, apart from the fact that both belong to the action genre. DHOOM revolved around the cops-robbers face off, while the characters in PLAYERS are all thieves.
Adventure movies made in Bollywood, by and large, stress on modish imageries, while the actual concept takes a backseat. That's precisely the trouble with PLAYERS. While a one-page synopsis of the film would evoke euphoric and ecstatic reactions, it's the screenplay, with a running time of almost 2.45 hours [20 reels], that lacks the power to keep you enthralled and enchanted. In short, PLAYERS has style and attitude, but what it lacks is soul and spirit!
PLAYERS is about a team of skilled and sharp group of people -- Charlie [Abhishek Bachchan], Ronnie [Bobby Deol], Spider [Neil Nitin Mukesh], Riya [Bipasha Basu], Bilal [Sikander Kher] and Sunny [Omi Vaidya] -- who rob the gold bullion from Russia successfully. But one of them double crosses the players and the team sets out, with Naina [Sonam Kapoor] also included in their task now, to retrieve the booty and also settle scores.
First things first! PLAYERS is an escapist fare, packed with ingredients that are considered mandatory in a Bollywood film. So if you are under the impression that Abbas-Mustan may have shunned the commercial trappings since it is an official adaptation of THE ITALIAN JOB, you're mistaken. PLAYERS doesn't imagine itself to be cinema that educates, enlightens or mollifies an academician. Furthermore, Abbas-Mustan's movies are never simplistic by nature. There are twists at the start, twists in the middle and twists towards the finale and just when you think that the movie's about to conclude, the director duo usually toss yet another twist in your face, leaving you startled for a minute or two. PLAYERS stays true to their style, but the twists here aren't the type that shock, amaze or astonish. One of the twists -- about the double crosser -- does catch you by surprise, but the remaining ones don't and that's where the screenplay falters.
It's a screenplay of convenience. The manner in which the gang sets out to execute the heist in Russia seems like a cakewalk or child's play, which is so damn difficult to absorb. Common guys, you are talking of robbing a nation's assets in broad daylight and the convenience with which things fall into place makes the entire heist phony and fake. Ditto towards the finale, when the chase ensues. Though the train robbery [in the first hour] and the chase sequence [climax] leave you awe-struck, the approach with which the gang sets out to achieve the goal is what appears counterfeit. In fact, given the genre of the film [a hi-octane thriller], one would've expected the writers to integrate a dash of realism in the plot for the goings-on to look plausible and credible, but the haphazard screenplay and the excessive length only dilutes the impact generated by some wonderful moments that PLAYERS has to offer.
It is accepted that Abbas-Mustan are forward-thinking directors. Not only do they opt for varied plots for their films, but also think out of the box when it comes to execution of the written material. Irrespective of how their films are received at the ticket window, you cannot turn a blind eye to the fact that they never pursue the trodden trail. But it's the screenplay that lets them down this time. Since a large part of the movie involves action and chase sequences [Allan Amin], the amalgamation of thrills and daredevil stunts keeps you on the edge. Also, the scale of the film is overwhelming. Filmed at the panoramic locales of Russia, Netherlands, New Zealand and of course, India, the DoP [Ravi Yadav] bestows the film with an international look. In fact, it's an incredibly good looking film!
Pritam's music is, to put it bluntly, a minus point. One misses a captivating soundtrack here. The music is deficient of the dynamism and passion that one witnessed in Pritam's preceding works in this variety [DHOOM, DHOOM 2 and RACE].
ZAMEEN was the first movie wherein Abhishek Bachchan's characteristic macho style was detected by the spectators. Movies like DHOOM, DUS, BLUFFMASTER and last year's DUM MAARO DUM strengthened his image further. The actor flaunts his popular style and attitude with panache in PLAYERS. Bobby Deol is wasted. Seriously, why is he sidelined in the plot? Bipasha enacts the role of a con artiste with super confidence. She looks fab and emotes with conviction. It's an image transformation for Sonam in PLAYERS. She has never done a full-on glamorous role before and PLAYERS should change the perception. However, the rawness, as an actor, shows in a variety of scenes.
Neil Nitin Mukesh is entrusted with a challenging role, but he lacks the charisma and skill to carry off the part with dexterity. Sikander Kher has an insignificant role. As for Omi Vaidya, the less said the better. He irritates and hams incessantly. Vinod Khanna is not in his element either. Johny Lever is hilarious as the car dealer. Aftab Shivdasani appears in a cameo.
On the whole, PLAYERS rides mainly on the clout of its credible director duo [Abbas-Mustan], daredevil stunts and stunning visuals. But, most importantly, it is deficient of a captivating screenplay. Also, the film could have done with judicious trimming for an enhanced impact. I for one went in with colossal expectations, but came out feeling downcast and disheartened.
A recreation or adaptation always leads to comparisons with the original work. And Abbas-Mustan will have to pass this acid test, since THE ITALIAN JOB is no regular film. Made twice in Hollywood [first in 1969 and then in 2003], THE ITALIAN JOB is a heist film with a variation. Like I pointed out earlier, PLAYERS is an altered version of THE ITALIAN JOB, catering more to the desi sensibilities. It's about a gang of skillful, stylish and sharp players who join hands to carry out a heist. Prepare yourself for a masala film with ample twists and turns, stunning and gorgeous locales, stylized stunts and adrenaline-pumping chases, lots of style and attitude and of course, the mandatory songs and comic sequences... In that respect, PLAYERS is in a completely different zone when one draws parallels with THE ITALIAN JOB.
One more clarification! When the promos of PLAYERS came on air, a lot of people felt that it seemed like an updated version of DHOOM. But let's spell this out at the very onset: There's no similitude between PLAYERS and DHOOM, apart from the fact that both belong to the action genre. DHOOM revolved around the cops-robbers face off, while the characters in PLAYERS are all thieves.
Adventure movies made in Bollywood, by and large, stress on modish imageries, while the actual concept takes a backseat. That's precisely the trouble with PLAYERS. While a one-page synopsis of the film would evoke euphoric and ecstatic reactions, it's the screenplay, with a running time of almost 2.45 hours [20 reels], that lacks the power to keep you enthralled and enchanted. In short, PLAYERS has style and attitude, but what it lacks is soul and spirit!
PLAYERS is about a team of skilled and sharp group of people -- Charlie [Abhishek Bachchan], Ronnie [Bobby Deol], Spider [Neil Nitin Mukesh], Riya [Bipasha Basu], Bilal [Sikander Kher] and Sunny [Omi Vaidya] -- who rob the gold bullion from Russia successfully. But one of them double crosses the players and the team sets out, with Naina [Sonam Kapoor] also included in their task now, to retrieve the booty and also settle scores.
First things first! PLAYERS is an escapist fare, packed with ingredients that are considered mandatory in a Bollywood film. So if you are under the impression that Abbas-Mustan may have shunned the commercial trappings since it is an official adaptation of THE ITALIAN JOB, you're mistaken. PLAYERS doesn't imagine itself to be cinema that educates, enlightens or mollifies an academician. Furthermore, Abbas-Mustan's movies are never simplistic by nature. There are twists at the start, twists in the middle and twists towards the finale and just when you think that the movie's about to conclude, the director duo usually toss yet another twist in your face, leaving you startled for a minute or two. PLAYERS stays true to their style, but the twists here aren't the type that shock, amaze or astonish. One of the twists -- about the double crosser -- does catch you by surprise, but the remaining ones don't and that's where the screenplay falters.
It's a screenplay of convenience. The manner in which the gang sets out to execute the heist in Russia seems like a cakewalk or child's play, which is so damn difficult to absorb. Common guys, you are talking of robbing a nation's assets in broad daylight and the convenience with which things fall into place makes the entire heist phony and fake. Ditto towards the finale, when the chase ensues. Though the train robbery [in the first hour] and the chase sequence [climax] leave you awe-struck, the approach with which the gang sets out to achieve the goal is what appears counterfeit. In fact, given the genre of the film [a hi-octane thriller], one would've expected the writers to integrate a dash of realism in the plot for the goings-on to look plausible and credible, but the haphazard screenplay and the excessive length only dilutes the impact generated by some wonderful moments that PLAYERS has to offer.
It is accepted that Abbas-Mustan are forward-thinking directors. Not only do they opt for varied plots for their films, but also think out of the box when it comes to execution of the written material. Irrespective of how their films are received at the ticket window, you cannot turn a blind eye to the fact that they never pursue the trodden trail. But it's the screenplay that lets them down this time. Since a large part of the movie involves action and chase sequences [Allan Amin], the amalgamation of thrills and daredevil stunts keeps you on the edge. Also, the scale of the film is overwhelming. Filmed at the panoramic locales of Russia, Netherlands, New Zealand and of course, India, the DoP [Ravi Yadav] bestows the film with an international look. In fact, it's an incredibly good looking film!
Pritam's music is, to put it bluntly, a minus point. One misses a captivating soundtrack here. The music is deficient of the dynamism and passion that one witnessed in Pritam's preceding works in this variety [DHOOM, DHOOM 2 and RACE].
ZAMEEN was the first movie wherein Abhishek Bachchan's characteristic macho style was detected by the spectators. Movies like DHOOM, DUS, BLUFFMASTER and last year's DUM MAARO DUM strengthened his image further. The actor flaunts his popular style and attitude with panache in PLAYERS. Bobby Deol is wasted. Seriously, why is he sidelined in the plot? Bipasha enacts the role of a con artiste with super confidence. She looks fab and emotes with conviction. It's an image transformation for Sonam in PLAYERS. She has never done a full-on glamorous role before and PLAYERS should change the perception. However, the rawness, as an actor, shows in a variety of scenes.
Neil Nitin Mukesh is entrusted with a challenging role, but he lacks the charisma and skill to carry off the part with dexterity. Sikander Kher has an insignificant role. As for Omi Vaidya, the less said the better. He irritates and hams incessantly. Vinod Khanna is not in his element either. Johny Lever is hilarious as the car dealer. Aftab Shivdasani appears in a cameo.
On the whole, PLAYERS rides mainly on the clout of its credible director duo [Abbas-Mustan], daredevil stunts and stunning visuals. But, most importantly, it is deficient of a captivating screenplay. Also, the film could have done with judicious trimming for an enhanced impact. I for one went in with colossal expectations, but came out feeling downcast and disheartened.
check out vidya balan next 'Kahaani'
Kahaani
to watch the trailer click here
www.youtube.com/watch?v=wuOOu2IhwGc
Friday, January 06, 2012
Kahani Trailer – Vidya Balan
AFter the success of ‘The Dirty Picture’ Vidya Balan has been hailed as one of the few actresses in the industry, who can bring audiences to theaters, by her presence.
Her next release is Kahani directed by Sujoy Ghosh (director of Aladin, Home Delivery, Jhankar Beats). It’s set for a theatrical release on March 9th 2012.
check out the trailer
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j1wEeuAosNM
Her next release is Kahani directed by Sujoy Ghosh (director of Aladin, Home Delivery, Jhankar Beats). It’s set for a theatrical release on March 9th 2012.
check out the trailer
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j1wEeuAosNM
Thursday, January 05, 2012
Wednesday, January 04, 2012
Sherlock Holmes: A Game Of Shadows - Movie review
sympathise with the appeal of sequels.
Good sequels raise the bar, elevating the stakes to make it more fun
than the first film. Unfortunately, Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows
is not one of those.
Guy
Ritchie's bigger budgeted follow up to 2009's Sherlock Holmes is a
poorly done rehash that uses plot points as excuses to move from one
piece of unoriginal slow motion fight choreography to the next. The
ultra-slow-motion bullet shots are wow-inducing effects, but on the
narrative level the film shoots blanks. To label Sherlock Holmes 2 as a
bad movie would be harsh. It's not bad, just that it is an
earth-shattering disappointment, a high gloss bore that gives you an ice
cream headache.
The lack of novelty in this sequel is astounding. And the story is so convoluted I doubt that it'd make much sense even if you had the time or interest to concentrate. It is 1891, Watson (Jude Law) prepares to get married to his fiance, and Holmes (Downey Jr) is obsessed with a Math professor named Moriarty (Jared Harris), whom he believes to be responsible for the murders of a string of business magnates. Holmes intercepts a letter meant for fortune-teller Madame Sizma (Noomi Rapace) that sends him and Watson on a quest to stop the bombing at a Switzerland peace summit, and quash Moriarty's plan of jeopardising the entire Western civilization. The first film was fascinating because of the supernaturally-inclined villain, but Moriarty in the sequel is merely a standard-issue conspiring bad guy with delusions of grandeur.
There is more CGI wizardry, more fights, more stunts, more back and forth between Holmes and Watson. But more, in this case, adds up to less, and Ritchie makes sure the audience is turned numb. The video game-like jump cutting punches and kicks get tedious, and it becomes hard to believe that they were choreographed by Guy Ritchie, even though he is to blame for the inception of this style. The 19th century London production design is amazing, but there is so much thrown at you with little plot payoff that it makes for an endless charade of pointless expensive buffoonery.
Just like in the first film, Sherlock Holmes 2 contains the crackerjack comic touch of its diminutive star Downey Jr. You'd have to be made of stone to not to be entertained by him. Jude Law is a lot more jaded, quite like the bloated, repetitive film. Noomi Rapace, the original Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is hilariously uncomfortable in her English speaking role. Eddie Marsan as Lestrade, Rachel McAdams as Irene Adler and Geraldine James as Holmes' landlady are wasted in thankless miniscule turns. Stephen Fry as Holmes' brother Mycroft in his extended cameo nudges in a few fun bits. Jared Harris is elegantly menacing as Dr Moriarty. But that's little consolation amidst the meandering plot and aimless set pieces.
If you love CGI razzle-dazzle and recurrent eye candy action, Sherlock Holmes 2 delivers. But ultimately you'll have witnessed style over substance. Downey Jr is an exceptionally engaging actor, and he deserves much better than this elementary sequel.
The lack of novelty in this sequel is astounding. And the story is so convoluted I doubt that it'd make much sense even if you had the time or interest to concentrate. It is 1891, Watson (Jude Law) prepares to get married to his fiance, and Holmes (Downey Jr) is obsessed with a Math professor named Moriarty (Jared Harris), whom he believes to be responsible for the murders of a string of business magnates. Holmes intercepts a letter meant for fortune-teller Madame Sizma (Noomi Rapace) that sends him and Watson on a quest to stop the bombing at a Switzerland peace summit, and quash Moriarty's plan of jeopardising the entire Western civilization. The first film was fascinating because of the supernaturally-inclined villain, but Moriarty in the sequel is merely a standard-issue conspiring bad guy with delusions of grandeur.
There is more CGI wizardry, more fights, more stunts, more back and forth between Holmes and Watson. But more, in this case, adds up to less, and Ritchie makes sure the audience is turned numb. The video game-like jump cutting punches and kicks get tedious, and it becomes hard to believe that they were choreographed by Guy Ritchie, even though he is to blame for the inception of this style. The 19th century London production design is amazing, but there is so much thrown at you with little plot payoff that it makes for an endless charade of pointless expensive buffoonery.
Just like in the first film, Sherlock Holmes 2 contains the crackerjack comic touch of its diminutive star Downey Jr. You'd have to be made of stone to not to be entertained by him. Jude Law is a lot more jaded, quite like the bloated, repetitive film. Noomi Rapace, the original Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is hilariously uncomfortable in her English speaking role. Eddie Marsan as Lestrade, Rachel McAdams as Irene Adler and Geraldine James as Holmes' landlady are wasted in thankless miniscule turns. Stephen Fry as Holmes' brother Mycroft in his extended cameo nudges in a few fun bits. Jared Harris is elegantly menacing as Dr Moriarty. But that's little consolation amidst the meandering plot and aimless set pieces.
If you love CGI razzle-dazzle and recurrent eye candy action, Sherlock Holmes 2 delivers. But ultimately you'll have witnessed style over substance. Downey Jr is an exceptionally engaging actor, and he deserves much better than this elementary sequel.
Imran to promote 'Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu' in on 'Bigg Boss'
Actor Imran Khan and producer Karan Johar would appear on hit TV reality show 'Bigg Boss' to promote their upcoming film 'Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu'. "Imran and Karan both are coming on the show for the finale.
They would be promoting their film 'Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu'," sources said. Directed by debutant Shakun Batra the romantic-comedy stars Imran and Kareena Kapoor in the lead.
The film produced by Johar is up for release in February this year. The lead actress, Kareena is holidaying with beau Saif Ali Khan and so she won't be able to make it for the show.
The fifth season of 'Bigg Boss' is in the final leg with five constestants - Amar Upadhay, Akashdeep Saigal, Siddharth Bhardwaj, Juhi Chawla and Mahek Chahal.
The show hosted by Salman Khan and Sanjay Dutt started with one male contestant - Shakti Kapoor and 13 females. Also, Salman reportedly did not want Hrithik Roshan to come on Bigg Boss, due to their cold war. Hence Imran and Karan were zeroed in.
The film produced by Johar is up for release in February this year. The lead actress, Kareena is holidaying with beau Saif Ali Khan and so she won't be able to make it for the show.
The fifth season of 'Bigg Boss' is in the final leg with five constestants - Amar Upadhay, Akashdeep Saigal, Siddharth Bhardwaj, Juhi Chawla and Mahek Chahal.
The show hosted by Salman Khan and Sanjay Dutt started with one male contestant - Shakti Kapoor and 13 females. Also, Salman reportedly did not want Hrithik Roshan to come on Bigg Boss, due to their cold war. Hence Imran and Karan were zeroed in.
Beti B to be named after January 15
Beti B, a nickname given by Abhishek Bachchan’s good friend Shahana Goswami to the youngest member of Bachchan family, will be named after January 15th.
The delay in the naming ceremony is because of the inauspicious Kharwas period. The Bachchans who are considered to be superstitious are waiting for this period to end. The naming ceremony will now take place after Makar Sankranti which falls on January 15 this year.
Sources say that the family wants to name the baby with a name that stars from the alphabet ‘A’ since Amitabh, Abhishek and Aishwarya share the same initials ‘AB’. Zeroing down on one name out of the many shortlisted is a tough job says dad – Abhishek.
All the Bachchan fans will have to wait a little longer for the suspense to be revealed.
The delay in the naming ceremony is because of the inauspicious Kharwas period. The Bachchans who are considered to be superstitious are waiting for this period to end. The naming ceremony will now take place after Makar Sankranti which falls on January 15 this year.
Sources say that the family wants to name the baby with a name that stars from the alphabet ‘A’ since Amitabh, Abhishek and Aishwarya share the same initials ‘AB’. Zeroing down on one name out of the many shortlisted is a tough job says dad – Abhishek.
All the Bachchan fans will have to wait a little longer for the suspense to be revealed.
Don 2 Box office Update – Week 2
The film remained steady on it’s second Friday, picked up on Saturday and was strong at multiplexes all over on Sunday. The second weekend collections was around 20 crores (including the regional versions).
We expect Don 2 to collect about 30 crores in Week 2 taking it’s 2 week total to 104 crores. But with the release of Players this week, the collections in Week 3 is expected to drop by 60%.
- Week 1 – 74 crores
-Week 2 – 30 crores
-Week 3 – 11 crores (expected)
-Week 4 – 5 crores (expected)
-Week 5 – 2 crores (expected)
-Rest of the weeks – 1.5 crores (expected)
-Lifetime collections – 123.5 crores (expected)
If it manages better numbers in Week 3, there are chances that Don 2 could go past the lifetime collections of Salman Khan’s Ready (125 crores). Please note – that the expected figures of Don 2 includes collections from non-hindi versions.
But with lesser shows / screens in Week 3 and competition from Players, a film that belongs to a similar genre, Don 2 might find it difficult to go past the 125 crore mark.
Rani Mukherjee with Aditya Chopra
The reclusive Aditya Chopra and his girlfriend Rani Mukherjee were spotted at the airport on Monday.
What was even more surprising was when Adi didn’t shy away from the shutterbugs, when our cameraman approached him for pictures.
Rani Mukherjee arrived first and barely 5 minutes later, the Chopras returned from their New Year vacations. There are rumours that Aditya and Rani are planning to get married soon!
Check out these rare pictures of Aditya Chopra, who doesn’t talk to the media even before the release of his films and has stayed away from the limelight ever since he made his directorial debut with Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge.
Aditya Chopra at the Airport, arrived 5 minutes after Rani
What was even more surprising was when Adi didn’t shy away from the shutterbugs, when our cameraman approached him for pictures.
Rani Mukherjee arrived first and barely 5 minutes later, the Chopras returned from their New Year vacations. There are rumours that Aditya and Rani are planning to get married soon!
Check out these rare pictures of Aditya Chopra, who doesn’t talk to the media even before the release of his films and has stayed away from the limelight ever since he made his directorial debut with Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge.
Aditya Chopra at the Airport, arrived 5 minutes after Rani
Gali Gali Chor Hai: Veena Malik's item number
Vivek Oberoi happy to get a role in 'Krrish 2'
Actor Vivek Oberoi, who was away from the arc-lights last year, says
that being offered a role in 'Krrish 2' was one of the most memorable
moments of 2011 for him.
"A very special memory for me of 2011 was that I got a chance to be a part of such a big film, 'Krrish'. The first time I went to meet Rakesh (Roshan) uncle in his office and he gave me the script. I read the script there in his office only. After reading the script, I went up to him, hugged him and received his blessings. Then I signed the film," the 35-year-old actor said while talking about his performance at the Country Club of India on New Year's Eve.
Meanwhile, Vivek has started shooting for his latest film 'Kismat Love Paisa Dilli' with Mallika Sherawat. The film requires Vivek to spend a lot of time in the capital and the actor has called over his family to stay with him till the shoot schedule ends.
"I am very family-centric. So, I like living with my family. When I live in hotels, I miss that a lot. Hotels at the end of the day feel like a hotel. So, I prefer that where ever I go, I get an apartment or rent a place. So, I can call my entire family and it feels like home," said Vivek, whose co-production "Watch Indian Circus" in 2011 won awards at the Busan International Film festival and the 47th Chicago International Film Festival.
After a dull 2011, the new year looks promising for Vivek who has 'Krrish 2' and 'Zilla Ghaziabad' in his kitty.
"A very special memory for me of 2011 was that I got a chance to be a part of such a big film, 'Krrish'. The first time I went to meet Rakesh (Roshan) uncle in his office and he gave me the script. I read the script there in his office only. After reading the script, I went up to him, hugged him and received his blessings. Then I signed the film," the 35-year-old actor said while talking about his performance at the Country Club of India on New Year's Eve.
Meanwhile, Vivek has started shooting for his latest film 'Kismat Love Paisa Dilli' with Mallika Sherawat. The film requires Vivek to spend a lot of time in the capital and the actor has called over his family to stay with him till the shoot schedule ends.
"I am very family-centric. So, I like living with my family. When I live in hotels, I miss that a lot. Hotels at the end of the day feel like a hotel. So, I prefer that where ever I go, I get an apartment or rent a place. So, I can call my entire family and it feels like home," said Vivek, whose co-production "Watch Indian Circus" in 2011 won awards at the Busan International Film festival and the 47th Chicago International Film Festival.
"Who knew 'Kolaveri Di' would go so far"-- Dhanush
Kolaveri di might have become a landmark on the 2011 music
calendar, but unfortunately, the man behind the popular number, Dhanush
is unable to reap any monetary benefit out of the situation.
Apparently, Dhanush sold the rights for Kolaveri to Sony Music for a pittance, not knowing how far the song was fated to go. And now when there are various versions of the number making their way around the world (in Pakistan, as well), Dhanush's family and friends are dismayed at his meagre income from the deal.
In fact, there is nothing the South star can do to curb the myriad versions of Kolaveri that are floating around. Also, he has no control over the various versions of the song that the actor has served up for future release. Shockingly the Hindi version of Kolaveri is out of Dhanush's hands.
The star-singer says, "I can't release any version of Kolaveri without Sony's approval. And I'll have to share every version of the song with them. So essentially I'll get paid only for my singing. Like the Tamil version, the Hindi version of Kolaveri is with Sony Music. There's nothing I can do about it."
Ask Dhanush why he didn't retain the rights for the song, and he replies, "Who knew the song would go so far? But it's okay. I don't regret it. I am content with what I've got from this song. And what I've got is priceless."
About the song being used for a political campaign in Pakistan, Dhanush says, "The song has crossed a very important boundary." Apparently, plans are afoot for the Tamil star-singer to float his own music company for future Kolaveris.
A collaboration with A R Rahman is also on the cards. The maestro recently singled Dhanush out for praise, referring to him as the Aamir Khan of the South and comparing Kolaveri di to his Aati Kya Khandala.
Responding to Rahman's compliments, Dhanush says, "Coming from him, it's a great honour. I'd love to work with him."
Apparently, Dhanush sold the rights for Kolaveri to Sony Music for a pittance, not knowing how far the song was fated to go. And now when there are various versions of the number making their way around the world (in Pakistan, as well), Dhanush's family and friends are dismayed at his meagre income from the deal.
In fact, there is nothing the South star can do to curb the myriad versions of Kolaveri that are floating around. Also, he has no control over the various versions of the song that the actor has served up for future release. Shockingly the Hindi version of Kolaveri is out of Dhanush's hands.
The star-singer says, "I can't release any version of Kolaveri without Sony's approval. And I'll have to share every version of the song with them. So essentially I'll get paid only for my singing. Like the Tamil version, the Hindi version of Kolaveri is with Sony Music. There's nothing I can do about it."
Ask Dhanush why he didn't retain the rights for the song, and he replies, "Who knew the song would go so far? But it's okay. I don't regret it. I am content with what I've got from this song. And what I've got is priceless."
About the song being used for a political campaign in Pakistan, Dhanush says, "The song has crossed a very important boundary." Apparently, plans are afoot for the Tamil star-singer to float his own music company for future Kolaveris.
A collaboration with A R Rahman is also on the cards. The maestro recently singled Dhanush out for praise, referring to him as the Aamir Khan of the South and comparing Kolaveri di to his Aati Kya Khandala.
Saif's 'Agent Vinod' vs Ajay's 'Tezz'
Saif Ali Khan is apparently a worried man. His long-in-the-making Agent Vinod is finally releasing on March 23. The same days as the Ajay Devgn-starrer Tezz which is also an action flick.
Shah Rukh Khan in Hindi remake of Tamil film 'Ramana'?
Director Sanjay Leela Bhansali, who at the moment is writing his next
directorial venture and will start casting for it in a month's time,
has bought the remake rights of the 2002 Tamil blockbuster Ramana, with a strong anti-corruption message. And apparently, SRK has already given a nod to play lead in the project.
Interestingly, word is that several prominent producers were vying for the Bollywood rights of the film, especially now when anti-corruption statements have acquired a profound relevance, thanks to Anna Hazare.
Says a close friend of Bhansali, "After acquiring the rights of the Telugu film Vikramarkurdu which he has remade as Rowdy Rathod with its original director Prabhu Deva helming the Hindi remake, Sanjay was not really open to another South remake.
He did Rowdy... for the experience. But then someone recommended Ramana to him. When Sanjay saw the film, he was blown away. Made nine years ago, it is still as relevant. He had to acquire the remake rights and he had to get the director of the Tamil original to do it."
The film will be directed by A R Murugadoss, who is said to have
already approached Shah Rukh Khan to play the lead. Murugadoss
confirmed, "I will be directing the Hindi version of Ramana. Shah Rukh and I have talked about the film."
Interestingly, word is that several prominent producers were vying for the Bollywood rights of the film, especially now when anti-corruption statements have acquired a profound relevance, thanks to Anna Hazare.
Says a close friend of Bhansali, "After acquiring the rights of the Telugu film Vikramarkurdu which he has remade as Rowdy Rathod with its original director Prabhu Deva helming the Hindi remake, Sanjay was not really open to another South remake.
He did Rowdy... for the experience. But then someone recommended Ramana to him. When Sanjay saw the film, he was blown away. Made nine years ago, it is still as relevant. He had to acquire the remake rights and he had to get the director of the Tamil original to do it."
Rowdy Rathore New Poster
New Poster of Rowdy Rathore directed by Prabhu Deva (Wanted). The film stars Akshay Kumar and Sonkashi Sinha in lead roles and is produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali.
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