Another Sarfarosh For Aamir

Aamir Khan-Sonali Bendre starrer created waves when it got released some years ago. Now its director John Mathan will be back with the sequel of 'Sarfarosh'…
The director is planning to start on the project soon and is currently working on its script. Also he has plans to rope in Aamir for the sequel as well and would talk to the actor once he finishes the script. “Hopefully, the script should be ready soon. Only after I complete it and provided I like it, I will talk to Aamir,” said Mathan. With a nationalistic backdrop, 'Sarfarosh' garnered rave reviews and had enjoyed successful box office collections. The film portrayed the fight of a police officer against terrorism. Sharing story about the sequel, sources revealed, “The villain in Sarfarosh, played by Naseeruddin Shah, was not an Indian. In the sequel, John wants to dwell upon the enemy within.”
Filmmaker who is said to be busy wrapping up another project, ‘A New Love Ishtory’ at present, is serious over the sequel alongside as well. Lets wait and watch..

One More Remake For Sallu

AR Murugadoss will be having yet another Khan on his remake venture. Sallu will be seen in the ‘Ghajini’ famed director’s next flick. Titled ‘Kick’, the film is said to be a remake of a Telugu romantic-action adventure with the same title. This film will be produced by Sajid Nadiadwala and will have tall beauty Deepika Padukone opposite Salman.
The producer were initially hesitating to approach Deepika to act with Salman, as she has good rapport with Shahrukh Khan. But she made it very clear to the producer that she is open to work with any actor. The original version is directed by Surender Reddy. However, the producer was sure about not getting the original Telugu director. For, Nadiadwala stated, “I don't believe in letting the South Indian directors do the Hindi remakes.”
The film ‘Kick’ is expected to take further the fashion of action drama and to be more exciting than 'Ghajini' and 'Wanted'. Nadiadwala doesn’t want ‘Kick’ to look like ‘Wanted 2’. He said that they will be shooting the action scenes in Tokyo. The film will pull in Abhijat Joshi had done the script for Munnabhai. Everyone can wait to see Salman again kicking some new thrilling action scenes!

How Kat sign De Dana Dan?

Award winning ‘Kanchivaram’, filmmaker Priyadarshan is back in pavilion wielding megaphone for a comedy entertainer. Now, he brings back the ‘Hera Pheri’ team back in action with a substantial tale well packed with situational comedy. Before Akshay could get away his buffs with ‘Blue’ mania, ‘De Dana Dan’ is getting ready for release. The film casts Akshay Kumar, Sunil Shetty, Paresh Rawal, Katrina Kaif and Sameera Reddy in lead roles. The fun full promos for the film across satellite channels have mounted everyone’s hopes looking out for the release.
Apart, Katrina Kaif seems to be more on the top of world for having paired with a ‘super-hit’ team. Katrina says, “I never wanted to miss this flick as it has a power-packed humor sure to savor the tastes of every audience...”. On the pars, Kat admits that she was bit wedged in dilemma while signing for ‘De Dana Dan’ as she had a wrong presumption that her role may get overshadowed by the three leading superstars - Akki, Paresh and Sunil Shetty. But now, the actress feels more elated for having donned a substantial role in this film.
Wait for the movie release on nov27th, sure to hit the floor on...

KING DHAWAN’S SON ROHIT MARKS WITH AKKI ‘COME ON PAPPU’

King of Comedies David Dhawan sons Rohit Dhawan is making a directorial debut with ‘Come on Pappu.’ This movie will be produce by Percept Picture Company and is said to go on floors by March 2010.

Same as his father, Rohit will bring this as a comedy movie and will have a chimpanzee playing the main character, similar to the Hollywood film ‘Dunston Checks In’.
As per some sources reveled, Akshay Kumar and Sonam Kapoor will be the lead pair. Another interesting news is that the movie will also have John Abraham. After becoming a hit comedy pair in ‘Garam Masala’, Akki and John will be coming together in this movie. But the confirmation from the production house about the final cast is yet to be made.

Well lets see whether son will become the king!!

T-SERIES BAGS MUSIC RIGHTS OF KITES AND ACTION REPLAY

We all know that One of the biggest players in the music industry is T-Series. Most of the recent hit music films' has been released on T-Series label and even in the future T-Series has a promising line up with Blue, 3 Idiots in its hand.
T-Series has gone ahead and bagged the music rights of two more biggies - namely Rakesh Roshan's Kites and Vipul Shah's Action Replay. While Action Replay stars Akshay Kumar and Aishwarya Rai in lead roles, Kites stars Hrithik Roshan, Barbara Mori and Kangna in principal roles.

After bagging the music rights of these two most awaited films, T-Series has yet again mark its pinch in the music industry.

Aamir-Kat in Guru Dutt’s movie

Older generation can look forward to refresh their memory. People will be now talking and comparing their cinema era with the contemporary ones. Thanks to Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra.

This ‘Rang De Basanti’ director is said to be planning to bring a biographical movie on Guru Dutt. A remake of the original, ‘Kaagaz Ke Phool’, actors Aamir Khan and Katrina Kaif are going to repeat the role of Guru Dutt and Waheeda Rehman. Both the actors have impressively made to look exactly like the yesteryear classic’s original couple and their photo has already become a cover-page of the popular magazine, ‘Cineblitz’. The biography was already attempted by Guru Dutt himself, but the movie turned out to be a flop. Written by Nasreen Munni Kabeer, the biography includes the life story of Guru Dutt.

This movie is expected to go on floors in October, let us hope the modern version and the modern couple hit the target.

MJ Introduces Hrithik to Western Dancing, Hrithik-Zayed as a Mythological hero

This Greek faced hero floored the audience with his mind-blowing dance movements in his debut movie, ‘Kaho na Pyaar Hai’. Then after, he went on to give impressive twists and turns in most of his movies. Think Hrithik and people will imitate his ‘stop-stop’ dance steps of his song ‘Ek pal ka jeena’ from ‘Kaho na pyaar hai’.

Hrithik Roshan would be next seen as the mythological hero Ram in ‘The Legend of Rama’, but did you know that this green-eyed heartthrob used to imitate MJ in his childhood? Hrithik's sister, Sunaina revealed that the tall actor is an avid fan of the late King Of Pop. She said, “Duggu must’ve been eight or nine years old when he used to imitate Jackson’s moonwalk. MJ’s ‘Thriller’ was his favourite, the moment that song used to play on TV, Hrithik used to get up and dance. In fact, it was MJ’s music videos that introduced Duggu to western dancing. He did a Michael Jackson at every family function.”

Now, is that the secret behind his striking grooves?

Yes, it’s true! Hrithik Roshan and Zayed Khan are to be featured as the mythological characters in Sanjay Khan’s ‘The Legend of Rama’. This movie is going to be co-scripted by Zayed’s father and Hrithik’s father-in-law Sanjay Khan and Briton-based author Faroukh Dhondy. And any guess who will don the King Dashrath’s role? The Bollywood daddy, Amitabh Bachchan!
With the script in its final stages, Faroukh Dhondy feels that both Hrithik and Zayed are perfect for the role of Ram and Laxman respectively. He terms the movie as a modern format of Ramayan. “It's not a modern but a traditional adaptation but with the grammar of a modern films. This means it would be the Ramayan in The Lord of the Rings genre,” he adds.

Hmm, wonder how these stunning, handsome heroes will look with bows and arrows. Lets waits and watch..

MJ's FUNERAL AT STAPLES CENTRE

DRUG SEDATIVE - NURSE QUOTE
Several narcotics found in late King of Pop Michael Jacksons rented home in Los Angeles included powerful sedative Propofol, also known as Diprivan, according to a law enforcement source. used as part of inducing general anaesthesia in the operating room, and for heavy sedation of patients who are intubated in the intensive care unit. Cherilyn Lee, a nurse who worked for Jackson, has revealed that the singer begged her for the drug. Nurse said that just 4 days before his death, a member of Jackson's staff called her, and that she could hear the singer in the background saying: "One side of my body is hot, it's hot, and one side of my body is cold. It's very cold." "He wasn't looking to get high or feel good and sedated from drugs. This was a person who was not on drugs. This was a person who was seeking help, desperately, to get some sleep, to get some rest," Fox News quoted. police investigate the possible involvement of prescription drugs in Jackson's death.

MJ'S FUNERAL
MJ’s former wife, Debbie Rowe says she is undecided over whether to fight for custody of their two children. Ms Rowe’s lawyer issued the statement after media reports that she had vowed to fight for custody of the two children she had with the late pop icon. At the time, MJ’s family has announced that a memorial service will be held next Tuesday in Los Angeles for the pop star. Some 11,000 free tickets will be made available for the event, which will be held in the city’s Staples Center Arena. Meanwhile footage of Jackson on stage two days before he died has been released. The film which was recorded on the 23rd of June shows him rehearsing a routine at the Staples Center for a series of UK comeback concerts which had been planned for this month.

Fans are asking me similar questions, but instead wondering whether Michael Jackson's funeral may be Muslim. In 2007, his brother Jermaine Jackson told the media that Michael had shown interest in the religion, and there was brief speculation that Jackson converted from Jehovah's Witness to Islam. Michael Jackson Funeral Set for July 7 at Staples Center The Michael Jackson funeral is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Tuesday, July 7, at Los Angeles’ Staples Center. Somehow it seems appropriate. It will be a day for the Greatest Show on Earth to follow The Biggest Funeral in History. Jackson would love this, that’s for sure.

Earlier speculation had the funeral being held everywhere from Neverland to Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. "The family and I are very proud to see all of you come out here and help us with this whole situation because we know that we do have fans all over the world and we know that we're loved all over the world”. "But one thing that I wish could have happened — I wish that Michael could be here to see all of this. (We) had to wait until something happened like this before it could be realized. Michael was a superstar ... he was loved all over the world."

IIFA Awards 2009 - Winner

Best Film
Jodhaa Akbar

Best Actor in a Leading Role – Male
Hrithik Roshan - Jodhaa Akbar

Best Actor in a Leading Role - Female
Priyanka Chopra - Fashion

Best Director
Ashutosh Gowariker - Jodhaa Akbar

Best Actor in a Supporting Role - Male
Arjun Rampal - Rock On!!

Best Actor in a Supporting Role - Female
Kangna Ranaut - Fashion

Best Actor in a Negative Role
Akshaye Khanna - Race

Best Debutant Star - Male
Farhan Akhtar

Best Debutant Star - Female
Asin

Outstanding Achievement by an Indian in International Cinema
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

Best Actor in a Comic Role
Abhishek Bachchan - Dostana

Best Music
A R Rahman - Jodhaa Akbar

Best Lyrics
Javed Akhtar - Jashn-E-Bahara (Jodhaa Akbar)

Best Playback Singer - Male
Javed Ali - Jashn-e-Baharaa (Jodhaa Akbar)

Music Director of the Decade
A R Rahman

Best Playback Singer - Female
Shreya Ghoshal - Teri Ore (Singh is Kinng)

Best Dailogue
Manu Rishi - Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye!

Best Screenplay
Neeraj Pandey - A Wednesday!

Sound Editing
Ghajini

Sound Recording
Ghajini

Best Action
Ghajini

Special Effects
Ghajini

Best Sound Recording
Rock On!!

Best Editing
Jodhaa Akbar

Best Make-up
Jodhaa Akbar

Art Direction
Jodhaa Akbar

Best Costume Award
Jodhaa Akbar

Best Background Score
A R Rahman

Star of the Decade - Male
Shah Rukh Khan

Star of the Decade - Female
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

Riteish Deshmukh to act in RGV’s 3-D Horror film titled WARNING

After a long time people will wear red glasses! We've heard many times RG Varma being tagged as a 'mad' director more than a 'maverick' one. But his madness can reach such heights that he might just about warn you that something creepier, scarier and nastier is slowly going to engulf one and all. Urmila in Bhoot looked creepy, his crow in Phoonk looked scary and wait till you see Riteish Deshmukh look nasty in Ram Gopal Varma's first ever 3-D horror film titled WARNING. Doing by RGV's wacky sense of humour, he also stated that his underline concept of the film is going to be - Ram Gopal Varma's warning. He says, 'If you think you have experienced everything there is to experience in fear, just wait for Warning. It's a 3-D horror film with an extraordinary experience of an extremely heightened sense of realism because the viewer is no longer removed from the happenings on screen and would feel that he is up there along with the characters on the location and is in as much danger as they are." RGV adds, "The tag line of Warning is - You Might Die. It is also going to be a film with the first ever 4-D experience, the fourth dimension being 'Death'. So far, I have finalized Riteish Deshmukh as one of the cast."

The director needs to take care of two things before his warning fails to ignite the fear. Working with 3-D poses unusual challenges for the horror genre. First, the filming process requires a lot of light, which is not especially conducive to creating spooky basements and lurking shadows. Marketing is also a challenge. So far the 3-D films that have been released in theatres in India since its inception have all geared to peoples and families.

RGV is the mother of invention when it comes to experimenting with different subjects and genres, but if there was ever a moment when horror needed to be reinvented, this is it, because we aren't telling you....we're warning you! Wait and watch the magic of RGV’s WARNING with red glasses on the eye.

Doctorate for A.R.Rahman from AMU

Oscar-winning music maestro A.R. Rahman was Sunday conferred an honorary doctorate by the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) at its 59th convocation. The composer, who said he was overwhelmed with the honour, urged more young people to join creative fields like arts and media.
Rahman also urged the youth to learn and join him in building a strong, harmonious India. 'I find a transcendent language that all can understand that can bring all together -- a language that awakens in each of us an awareness that all energy is spiritual energy and the fate of one is linked to the fate of all,' said Rahman.
Excellent line by Nelson Mandela, he said: 'Education shall be directed to the full development of the human personality and strengthening of respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. Education alone can eradicate poverty.' He ended his speech with 'Jai Ho', the song for which he got an Oscar.
Apart from Rahman, eminent Urdu writer Gopi Chand Narang also received an honorary doctorate. 'Urdu is a language of plurality and openness. I denounce all kinds of totalitarianism and regimentation. 'To me Urdu is a way of life representing more than a thousand years of composite culture drawing sustenance from Amir Khusrau, Nanak, Nizammuddin and the contributions of Ghalib, Mir, Iqbal, Faiz, Firaq and Prem Chand,' he said. West Bengal governor Gopal Krishna Gandhi was the chief guest along with Justice A.N. Ahmadi.

Most awaited movie of the year BLUE releasing worldwide on Diwali

At last:
The music of the mega- budget and this year’s most awaited film, 'BLUE' has been bought by T-Series (Hindi language rights). The film is produced by Shree Ashtavinayak Cine Vision Ltd. and directed by Anthony D’Souza.
This action packed and adventure movie promises spectacular stunts and breathtaking underwater sequences and stars Sanjay Dutt, Akshay Kumar, Lara Dutta, Zayed Khan, Katrina Kaif and Rahul Dev. With an unlimited action with live sharks (man eater).The music is given by none other than the country’s maestro today A.R Rahman.The movie is slated to release in October, making it the perfect Diwali release!

Makeover for Big B takes 5 hours!

Amitabh Bachchan is one man who still continues to give the young heroes a run for their money! Paying no heed to the age factor, Big B has gulped all roles that has come his way and that too to perfection. Films like ‘Nishabd’, ‘Cheeni Kum’ and ‘Black’ stand hits to his shoulder.

Big B has a number of films under his name which are under various levels of production, one film worth mention is director Balki’s project titled ‘Pa’. Though much of this film has been under tight wraps we have had instances of news leaking at some point or the other. We have all heard that ‘Pa’ sees Big B in a different makeover with professionals from London being called to work on him.

But people who have seen the look have been shocked. We have sources telling us that Big B will have a complete tonsured look, inclusive of his eye brows! Sources indicate that prosthetics had to be put in place for the right effect. The make-up for the look takes five hours to put on and once it is on big B cannot even drink water, say unit. Yet another shocking factor is that the film will see Big B as the mentally challenged son of junior Bachchan and Vidya Balan!

In this movie Big B has been pictured as a kid with a mental as well as an aging disorder where he will age very fast when compared to the rate at which normal children age. We just can’t wait to watch this film once it hits theatres. We are sure you are feeling the same to. Let’s wait a watch.

Vijay singh of Fox Star in talks with Karan Johar to under take MY NAME IS KHAN

After distributing SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE in India, the international entity Fox Star Studio is planning to expand its library, reportedly, keen on acquiring the global rights of Karan Johar's much-awaited biggie MY NAME IS KHAN, which stars the unbeatable combo of SRK and Kajol, yet again.

"It's not only MY NAME IS KHAN, we're in talks with several production houses at the moment," Vijay Singh of Fox Star Studio – and also says " we're keen to build relationships with the best of Bollywood."

"Well, we already have a 2-film deal with Vipul Shah [ACTION REPLAY, directed by Vipul himself, and the Sanjay Khanduri-directed Sunny starrer have been acquired by them], but I wouldn't like to reveal the names right now - Vijay states.

He continues "We also have an alliance with Murugadoss [GHAJINI] for making Tamil films. Besides, we're also in talks with several notable names in the Hindi industry." With Fox Star Studio entering the fray, the unit is only going to brighten in up coming years !

A R Rahman to open new studio in LA

Another great news

Yes, it's true! The 'Mozart of Madras' has just become 'Mozart across continents'! A.R. Rahman will officially be setting up a recording studio in the heart of Los Angeles. The superstar of music composer has been poured with offers this year, and has to divide his time between continents.

Rahman has been busy setting up four different teams that will work in future with him. The first team will be home team Chennai; all Bollywood music will be recorded at a second studio in Mumbai. And there will be two more teams, functioning in London and Los Angeles.

Los Angeles, the heart of the movie world, as Rahman popular in this modern world. But he prefers to record in Chennai! He also has a bulk of projects in Tamil and Hindi which he will complete by the end of this year. The number of calls he is getting from abroad has not abated.

Rahman recently met actor Vince Vaughn and many more Hollywood greats who have expressed their desire to work with him. Saying he didn't expect Slumdog Millionaire to be such a big success, he attributes all its success to his supporters and thanked his well wishers.

In the meantime, the country is getting ready to rock to Rahman's beats, as he continues to go places with his 'Jai Ho' concert. His next live performance will be in Pune on May 31st, 2009.

Apart from this Rahman scores in Couples Retreat, another Hollywood movie. Lets wait and watch for another big success.

Mixed feelings for new Terminator - ARNOLD

Terminator hero, Actor-turned-California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, went with his family to watch the latest movie from the super hits franchise and came out with mixed feelings. He enjoyed the movie, but his kids sort of hurt his ego by enjoying it a tad too much!

He says, "Oh yeah, the whole family went to see it. It's a great film, I was very excited. McG has done a great job as have Bale and the others. The only thing about it was, I was a little upset because when we came out, I said, 'What did you think of it?' and they said, 'That was the best Terminator movie ever!' So that's really, like thanks a lot that really helped my ego!" But Terminator is not without Arnold’s appearance. Arnold did not shoot for the movie; apart from it scenes from the previous movies with Arnold in it were inserted at a few points in the movie.

Aishwarya to perform at IIFA

The International Indian Film Academy Awards (IIFA) enters its tenth edition this year, and promises to be one of the biggest entertainment extravaganza.

The event will be choreographed by none other than Prabhu Deva. A number of Bollywood stars are expected to perform at the awards function. Amitabh Bachchan is the brand ambassador for IIFA and the event is held every year to commemorate the best in Indian cinema.

Bollywood beauty and ex-Miss World Aishwarya Rai will perform along with several other dancers; the event will commence on June 11th and end on June 13th.

Some of the biggest names in Bollywood and other eminent personalities of Indian cinema are expected to participate.

Saif-Vivek, almost handcuffed!

The location was New York and shooting was going on in full swing. The film is Rensil D’Silva’s ‘Qurbaan’ that sees Saif Ali Khan, beau kareena Kapoor and Vivek Oberoi in the lead. The ‘Qurbaan’ team was shooting a car chase scene in a hilly area will trouble took shape of a cop.

Reports indicate that Saif was driving in full throttle with Vivek in tow. Despite numerous takes things were not coming as expected and the director was asking for a once more. The locals of the place who became irate seeing two guys breaking traffic rules promptly called the troopers.

The cops who immediately materialized before the Bollywood stars asked them to step out to carry out the usual procedure for breaking speed limit rules. The Bollywood stars’ repeated requests regarding their identity fell on deaf ears. Just as the Bollywood duo was about to be handcuffed the production team arrived and produced the relevant documents confirming the statement of the actors.

Only then were the actors released but not before their documents were promptly and thoroughly scanned by the cops. ‘Qurbaan’ sees Saif playing a Muslim activist and Kareena Kapoor as his wife.

First look of Pyaar Impossible!

We recently had the heroine of ‘Pyaar Impossible’, Priyanka Chopra “click” start the official website of the film. Here we have for you now the official first look of the film ‘Pyaar Impossible’ that will be churned out by the Yash Raj banner.

‘Pyaar Impossible’ has Uday Chopra and Priyanka coming together for the first time. The film is being directed by the talented actor-director Jugal Hansraj. The film went on floors this last April and the team has been busy shooting since then. The film belongs to the rom-com category.

‘Pyaar Impossible’ is the story of Abhay (Uday Chopra) who is a nerdy, awkward, socially challenged and bespectacled geek and Alisha who is the epitome of beauty that any man would willingly rip his heart out for!

And when these two worlds collide you get:

Rajesh Khanna to be felicitated with Lifetime Achievement Award at IIFA

In the 60s, there came euphoria, a phenomenon, sweeping women across India off their feet with those naughty eyes, stylish shake of the head and enigmatic smile. It belonged to none other than superstar Rajesh Khanna, whom the IDEA IIFA Awards salutes this year.

The legend will be honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Videocon IIFA Weekend, which will be held at The Venetian Macao-Resort-Hotel from June 11 to 13 in Macau.

Stalwarts of Indian cinema like Mumtaz and Dharmendra have previously been recipients of this prestigious Award. Each year, IIFA 2009 honours a member of the Indian film fraternity with the Lifetime Achievement Award, who has made innumerable contributions to Indian cinema.

Keeping this in mind, the IIFA Advisory Board and the IIFA Management recognizes Rajesh Khanna in its tenth year.

Katie replaced by Lindsay

Katie Holmes' commitment to Broadway play 'All My Sons' forced the pretty actress to pull out of director David Michael’s The Other Side. And surprisingly, David approached Lindsay Lohan to fill the spot, in spite of discouraging reports on her unprofessional behaviour during the filming of her previous movies. Lindsay, who vouches that she has turned a new leaf, has been on the lookout for a substantial script to prove it, and has jumped at this opportunity with gusto.

"Katie would call me from Berlin at 4 a.m. her time to go over ideas and notes. We did this over successive weeks while she was there with Tom (Cruise) when he was filming Valkyrie. The result of our collaboration has tremendously improved the arc and dynamics of the lead character," says David, with a hint of disappointment that Katie is no longer in the movie. "Lindsay's very aware of people's perceptions of her. She's really committed to doing what she has to in order to change that," he adds.

Karishma Kapoor and David Dhawan to judge reality show

The IPL is over and the television viewers seem to be getting back to their soaps. No wonder then that new TV shows are being launched on such a big scale currently. One of the latest shows featuring Bollywood celebrities is 'Hans Baliye', a reality show featuring Karishma Kapoor and director David Dhawan as judges.

David Dhawan said that he opted to be a judge on the show as it promised uniqueness and of course the comic aspect. He also added that comedy is something he personally enjoys and watching couples showcasing their humorous side will surely be a treat to watch. The show promises to be interesting and engaging.

Karishma Kapoor said that the unique and amazing concept to search for India's best real life comedy couples attracted her towards the show. 'Hans Baliye' gives a platform to real life couples to showcase their talent to a wider audience.

'Hans Baliye' will go on air from May 30 on Star One.

Mallika has a big bite!

Mallika Sherawat, the lady sans inhibitions seems to be eagerly awaiting the release of her thriller film ‘Hissss’. The lady is going places bagging international film one after the other. She is at the moment looking forward towards the release of her bilingual film ‘Hissss’ that will be released in Hindi as well as in English.

‘Hissss’ has completed the filming and is at the moment in the final stages of post production. There have been recent reports which suggest that the film has been taken by Endeavour. This is the same firm that took over the milti Oscar winning film ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ that was directed by Danny Boyle.

‘Hissss’ deals with the story of a naagin and her revenge. Mallika plays the role of the naagin. She avenges the traitors who have captured her pair. The trailer of the film that has been released is simply fantastic. Mallika seems to have worked hard for the film which also stars Irfaan Khan. The makers of the film have decided to showcase the film at the Toronto Film Fest this September.

Bollywood hunks getting real

Bollywood heroes are no more interested in playing larger than life characters anymore. They are more interested to portray characters that provide more scope for acting rather than giving scope for special effects. This can be witnessed by the number of new roles and characterizations that are being taken by numero uno heroes of Bollywood.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali is coming up with a film that will see Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai come together once more, but this time it is not going to be for a magnum opus epic but for a down-to-earth realistic story titled ‘Guzaarish’.

Hrithik will be playing the role of a man who is paralyzed from leg down. Aish plays a married woman, as well as a nurse, taking care of Hrithik. The twist in the tale comes when she gets attracted to Hrithik. Sources also reveal that the film deals with mercy killing, which is banned in the Indian sub-continent. This film is being canned amidst lot of expectations.

Sources also suggest that this will be the first full fledged film where Hrithik will be seen in a serious role. Yet another film will be My Name is Khan which has Shah Rukh Khan playing the lead. The film sees SRK as an Asperger's Syndrome patient.

To look at it another way these films will also increase the general awareness of the public about the diseases which otherwise will not be paid heed to.

Rahman in Couples Retreat!

Universal Studios has officially signed up A.R. Rahman who to score the music for their forthcoming project. Rahman has been busy ever since he won the prestigious Academy awards this year and has made several trips to the United States to meet filmmakers and finalize his next projects. The name of the film is Couples Retreat; the cast and the crew have not been confirmed yet.

The film, a romantic comedy, will be directed by Peter Pelensky. Rahman was not available for immediate comment. The 'Mozart of Madras', as he is popularly known, is expected to start working on this project very soon and may have to set up a high tech studio in Hollywood where he can mix and record music instantaneously.

Couples Retreat is expected to be released by end of this year. Another major project that Rahman is working on is 19th Step, directed by Bharat Bala.

We hope Rahman's Hollywood score is a musical treat and bring encores in terms of Oscars!

Salim-Sulaiman nominated for Emmy Awards

Indian music composer duo Salim-Sulaiman has been nominated for the prestigious television production awards Emmy for their composition in popular American show 'Wonder Pets'. The composers bagged the nomination for the song 'We like being small" in the outstanding original song category in the Children’s animation section. The awards ceremony will be held in Los Angeles on August 30.

The duo, brothers Salim Merchant and Sulaiman Merchant, have been composing music for over a decade, having scored for several Indi-pop performers and movies such as Chak De India, Bhoot, Mujhse Shaadi Karogi, Matrubhoomi and Fashion.

"It gives me great joy to be nominated for this award, as I remember while we were working on this project I experienced a kind of musical fulfillment and moments that will remain with me for a long time to come," Salim said.

While talking about the nomination, Sulaiman said, "We hardly expected this and were rather taken aback when we received the call from America. It’s honestly fantastic being nominated for this Emmy. Internationally, Indian music is being recognized and enjoyed, be it film music or classical, the appetite is simply growing and we look forward to creating more music."

Subhash Ghai impressed by music composer Wajid's work on Paying Guest

Sajid and Wajid have given quite a few chartbusters for number of Salman Khan starrers in the capacity of composers. However, when Wajid decided to lift the pen for the track 'Jack & Jill' in Paying Guest, he managed to impress none other than Subhash Ghai, the producer of the film.

"I wasn't meant to do lyrics for Paying Guests. In fact officially I have never been in charge of the lyrics department, though on and off I do come up with suggestions. However, it was by default that I ended up writing a song for Paying Guests", informs Wajid.

The song had traveled quite a few hands before it reached Wajid. The basic requirement was to come up with a song that revolved around the nursery rhyme 'Jack & Jill' and would appeal to both children and youth. When none of the other lyricists succeeded in delivering the required results, Wajid took up the challenge on himself.

"I asked Paritossh Painter, the film's director, for a couple of days and assured him that I would revert with the appropriate lyrics for 'Jack & Jill'. When I returned to him with the song, he liked what he saw but the biggest reaction came from Subhash Ghai himself", says Wajid in an excited tone.

And what exactly was the reaction?

"He was very impressed with the song and complimented me in as many words. Coming from a man like him who has been known for his great taste of music for decades, it was nothing but an honour", says Wajid.

This was not all as Subhash Ghai now wanted him to sing for Paying Guests as well. On his insistence, Wajid went on to sing the title song Paying Guests where he has gone solo. "He loved the base rhythm of the song that I hummed to him", says Wajid, "He then and there insisted that I sing the song as well and wasn't even willing try any other singer."

Incidentally, Ghai hadn't heard any of his songs from other films earlier and heard him for the first time only during the recording of Paying Guests.

"Thankfully, the song was completed in almost a single take and I was relieved because Ghai saab was there in the studio and seeing it all. It was a very good experience to be working under the mentorship of the Showman himself", gushes Wajid.

In fact, Wajid is wearing an all rounder cap today by not just composing the music but also frequently coming behind the mike for rendering a song or two. Most recently he flexed his vocal chords for films like Kal Kissne Dekha, Dhoondte Reh Jaaoge and Hello as well besides composing the music along with Sajid.

Dare devil stunts in Sallu film

Dance choreographer and actor turned director Prabhu Deva directed film ‘Wanted’ is gearing up for completion. The film is the remake of the blockbuster film in Tamil as well as Telugu titled ‘Pokiri’. The film is reported to have hair-raising stunts, the filming for which recently took place in Bangkok.

The stunt director for this film is Vijayan. The stunt scene shot was a duel between a couple of female boxers from Thailand and a crowd of spectators watching the fight. ‘Wanted’ is being produced by Sahara One Motion Pictures and Boney Kapoor.

'Wanted’ is getting ready for a July release and the post production works are going on in full swing.

The film deals with a gang of goons battling and finally good pervading over evil. There are also unexpected twists in the film which is being eagerly awaited by Salman fans.

The film sees Salman Khan in the lead role with Ayesha Takia playing is heroine. The music for the film is by Sajid-Wajid. The film also features south Indian artist Prakash Raj. It was Prakash Raj who played villain in the Tamil version.

Barbara Mori knew no English before she began Kites

Did anyone in India know who Barbara Mori was until the Roshans brought her over for Kites? And now after Cannes, Barbara is being recognized on an international podium.

It's not just fame that Kites has brought Ms. Mori. She knew no English before she started shooting for Kites. But by the time the shooting concluded, she could grope around the English language, thanks to Hrithik Roshan.

Apparently, Barbara and Hrithik made a pact. Hrithik would teach Barbara English and Barbara would teach him Spanish.

"I don't know how much of the promised linguistic exchange worked. But Hrithik knows enough Spanish to understand Mori better than his character in Kites, who can't follow a word of what she says in the film," says a crew member.

As for Barbara's angrezi, she has picked up enough to conduct herself coherently with the media in Cannes. Although apparently, she would often turn to Hrithik to get the right word.

Says Hrithik's father Rakesh Roshan, "Barbara knew only Spanish when she started shooting for Kites. That suited us fine since her character is supposed to understand only Spanish. During shooting, she needed to communicate with her co-stars and the crew. She was forced to learn English. Now she speaks just enough to make herself understood."

The film's shooting is over but the editing remains. Rakesh Roshan is hoping for an October release. "All the prospective buyers and media persons loved the trailer we took to Cannes. This was my first official visit to Cannes, though I've been to this city on holiday," says Rakesh Roshan.

Asin in Hollywood?

Asin dreams big, thinks quick and acts faster! The actress made it big in Bollywood with Ghajini directed by A.R. Murugadoss. Now, she already has a string of projects lined up in Bollywood! Asin will soon be seen in London Dreams opposite Salman Khan, and has also signed up for 19th Step directed by Bharat Bala.

Looks like she has now set her sights on Hollywood. Rumourmongers say she will soon be be seen in a Hollywood film. According to recent reports, A.R. Murugadoss has just entered into an agreement with Fox Star Studios to jointly produce and direct movies, and speculations have already started on whom he would cast for the lead roles.

Director Murugadoss, who shot to fame with Ghajini in Bollywood, will now be working on some new projects and Asin might find a berth in at least one of his forthcoming flicks. But is this a Hollywood project?

The actress has just moved shifted residence to Mumbai and is believed to be doing up her new house by herself. She now has actress Sridevi and Tabu as her neighbours and hopes to rule Bollywood too! All the very best, Asin!

Shilpa Shetty turns down Akon

Shilpa Shetty was supposed to perform with the American R&B star Akon at the IPL finals on Sunday night. But she decided to opt out at the last minute.

When contacted Shilpa explained, "I was just not prepared. It was an international platform, not some village nautanki. I had to be fully ready. And I just didn't get time to rehearse. So I regretfully had to say no. But I'd rather not give anything less than my best when I'm representing my country."

Shilpa says she was happy to be just a spectator at the finals. "So what if my team wasn't playing. I think I'm sporting enough to enjoy the game as just a part of the audience."

Christian slept through Scene one

Christian Bale insists that he is so calm and composed on set when the camera starts rolling that he has often fallen asleep! This even happened while filming the first scene for Batman Begins, he admits! "I fall asleep on sets all the time. I've done it in the middle of scenes. In Batman Begins, in the first scene I had with Michael Caine and Morgan Freeman, I fell asleep," he said. Adding, "I didn't hear 'action'. Michael and Morgan were talking and I was supposed to join in. I woke up with Michael Caine poking me in the ribs, going, 'Look at that! He's bloody fallen asleep.

Vashu postpones 'Kal Kissne Dekha', releasing in June

There's a dramatic twist in the producers/distributors versus multiplexes tale. Vashu Bhagnani's film KAL KISSNE DEKHA, which was slated for release on 29th May, has been shifted ahead, to some time in June. The release date is uncertain, as of now.

Vashu had decided to release the film in single screens and standalone multiplexes the coming Friday [29th May], standing by the directive issued by his association. But there were rumours throughout the week that Vashu had decided "to break the unity" by releasing the film at the national chain of multiplexes.

In fact, there was talk that the national chain of multiplexes were trying hard to convince Vashu to release the film in their properties, in view of the fact that KAL KISSNE DEKHA happens to be Vashu's son Jakky Bhagnani's film.

But Vashu has decided to put an end to all controversies and postpone the film, till the issue with multiplexes is sorted out. When this writer spoke to Vashu on Saturday afternoon [23rd May], the prolific producer confirmed the development, "Yes, KAL KISSNE DEKHA is not arriving on 29th May. I've decided to release the film after 2 or 3 weeks. I just hope that a solution comes out in a couple of days."

Vashu has spent a fortune publicising the film and now that the film has been shifted ahead, Vashu will have to spend an additional amount to keep the promotion in the same gear.

Paris’ phone goes missing

Paris Hilton, currently at the French Riviera for the Cannes Film Festival, is having a rather traumatic time trying to find her missing Blackberry phone. In 2005, her phone was hacked into and all her celebrity contacts were leaked on the Internet. Paris is absolutely terrified at that happening yet again. She was spotted rushing through Antibes' Hotel Du Cap on Friday trying to retrace her steps, hoping it would lead to her phone, but in vain.

"I don't know where or when it went missing but I know I've got to find it. It's the worst thing that could have happened. It has all my contacts in it and the last thing I want is for it to fall into the wrong hands," she said to the press.

Big B's new wax statue unveiled at Madame Tussauds New York

Who doesn't want to live forever… if not in real then at least as a wax statue! Well, Bollywood's Big B, Amitabh Bachchan, is one person who will surely live for ages to come. The man has created history with his films and has won world acclaim for his work. Now, there is yet another honour that has come his way. After London, Madame Tussauds New York unveiled Amitabh Bachchan's new wax statue.
The figure dressed in a traditional black sherwani suit with a gold and black scarf draped around the neck, is the first to be part of Madame Tussauds New York's all new 'Bollywood Zone' at Times Square.

Rann to release on Gandhi Jayanti

While it was confirmed last week itself that Ram Gopal Varma's much hyped and already in controversy Rann would be releasing in the month of October, the latest piece of news that has just come in is that 2nd October has been locked in as D-day for the film's release. Considering the fact that the film comes with a volatile theme and is expected to boast of a power house drama, a Gandhi Jayanti release is obviously not just a coincidence.

"The world knows that 2nd October was the day when the Father of the Nation was born. He taught the world the power of tolerance. Now on the same day, Rann will show the world something that will make them lose their faith in this blinded tolerance to each and everything", comes a very strong statement from an insider who wished to be unnamed.

With Rann already been in controversy due to it's theme track 'Jana Gana Rann', isn't it's 2nd October release adding fire to the fuel?

"To each his own", says the source, "Why don't we also look at the business angle of affairs. Any film would like to come over a long weekend and with 2nd October being a Friday (a National holiday), the film is already looking at an extended weekend. Which film won't want to arrive in such productive time frame?"

However, one can't deny the fact that by choosing 2nd October as D-day, Rann has made a smart move by making quite a few other films do a rethinking around their release strategy. With this Ram Gopal Varma film being one of the biggest to arrive this year, what with a power packed star cast spear headed by Amitabh Bachchan and well aided by others like Riteish Deshmukh, Paresh Rawal, Sudeep, Rajat Kapoor, Gul Panag, Neetu Chandra, Rajpal Yadav and Mohnish Behl, it is only bound to create ripples amongst other production houses that may be looking at bringing their film over the stated weekend.

Says a member of Rann, "The film has been shaping up exceedingly well and it will not just wake you but shock you. And please, it is not an out and out political drama per se, as is being speculated by a few out there. In fact that's just one part of it. Believe me, when you will walk out of the film, you won't want to move on to doing something else. Instead you will want to sit down and put your thinking cap on to retrospect on the drama that just unfolded."

Though Ram Gopal Varma was unavailable for comment, the know-how of the industry are quite sure that he won't miss the opportunity of bringing his topical Rann on 2nd October.

Lindsay back to acting

Lindsay Lohan has been partying hard in her effort to prove that she is over Samantha Ronson and their nasty split. But now, she has realized that it's time to get back to what she started out doing – acting! Bosses of her last movie Geaorgia Rules were very upset with her nonchalant attitude and lack of professionalism, but now she has decided to change that perception. She has landed the lead roles in fantasy comedy The Other Side, the story of a graduate science student on a remote island. She will share screen space with Woody Harrelson and Alanis Morissette in the movie for which shooting will begin in October. David Michales, the director, says, "Lindsay's very aware of people's perceptions of her. She's really committed to doing what she has to in order to change that."

Mahesh Bhatt: My book 'A Taste Of Life' will outlive all my movies

The irrepressible Mahesh Bhatt is ready with his latest shocker.

This time, it isn't a film. No way. Bhatt says he will never return to direction. "It's something far more vital. It's my book 'A Taste Of Life'. It will outlive all my movies. It's the diary of my last days with the breath of my life U.G. Krishnamurthy. This is by far the best work I've ever done in my life. It's the most naked expression of my heart. It's going to be a shocker."

The book hits stores at the end of May. "It tears down the sacred ideas of the human race. It stares unflinching into the face of death. And it celebrates life."

Speaking on the end of his career as a director, Bhatt says, "The page has turned. Chances of me directing another film are almost nil. I now want to watch the young directors in our production house make films. When you teach the young you touch the future. Some people have said I ghost-directed our latest production Jashn. The film is the brainchild of the co-directors Raksha and Hasnain. It is unfair to strip them of the credit."

Excited about the release of his book, Bhatt concludes, "It's not as though I've given up on creativity. I'm now more vigorously engaged with the stream of life than ever before. Like the flower that blooms, gives its fragrance and then fades away, I'm also moving on. As a creative artiste I'm right now most excited about my book."

Sonam Kapoor all set to walk the red carpet at Cannes

Despite the poor performance of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Saawariya at the B.O., one saw its debutant hero Ranbir Kapoor's career zooming to dizzying heights, while it took some time for Sonam Kapoor to make it to the 'it' list. But when she did, she simply did it in style! Today, Sonam has not only become the face of cosmetic major L'Oreal, but will also be walking the prestigious red carpet at the forthcoming Cannes International Film Festival for the brand. In fact, she will be walking the red carpet with none other than Aishwarya Rai Bachchan!

On this development, an excited Sonam says, "The name L'Oreal Paris is immediately evocative of the brand's signature phrase: 'Because I'm worth it'. Representing L'Oreal Paris as a woman and an artiste is an honour and a privilege, and the pleasure is mine!" Sonam also added that for her, being on the same platform as Aishwarya was a big deal in itself and that she has always adored her, but met her only once, during the Delhi 6 Premiere.

Not just that, this pretty young lass is confident of carrying off Indian outfits by designers Anamika, Manish and Gaurav, on the red carpet. If that's not enough, then the icing on the cake is that she will also be dressed by an international designer for one of the events!

It is also learnt that Sonam will be accompanied by her daddy dearest Anil Kapoor to Cannes. Way to go, Sonam!

Storyline of Big B starrer Teen Patti

We all have read about the various Hollywood celebrities going in and out of Leena Yadav's Teen Patti but what we are really interested is what the film is all about. Some say it's the remake of a Kevin Spacey starrer 21, a high powered gambling movie. But now the entire speculations end here as we at Bollywood Hungama bring you the exclusive preview watch of what Teen Patti is all about. Here's a sneak peek into the film.

Perci Trachtenberg (Ben Kingsley), widely regarded as the world's greatest living mathematician, meets Venkat Subramaniam (Amitabh Bachchan), a reclusive math genius from India, who has cracked a theory that could redefine the principles of probability and randomness. Aware that he is on the precipice of an extraordinary discovery, one that could find applications across various sciences, Venkat is encouraged to test his theory in the real world. But what starts out as an experiment between a charismatic young professor and an eccentric older one soon descends into a game neither of them can control. Convinced that Venkat's discovery has the originality and significance to change the narrative arc of mathematics, Perci understands that Venkat's theory, in essence, questions the idea of what is random and what is fated. A surprising and deeply moving redemption, initiated by Perci, closes this stupendously modern film that is as much about the private equations of honour and chance, as it is about knowledge that can change the world.

Is kunal unhappy with Imran?

Reports in sections of the media suggesting that Kunal Kohli submitted the same script to Ranbir Kapoor and Imran Khan have intrigued not just the director but also his colleagues from the filmmaking fraternity who wonder why the two actors needed to make a public issue of the matter, and if Yash Raj Films, from whom Kunal is supposed to have broken away with some acrimony, are in way behind these 'stall' tales.

Says a director - colleague also a part of Yash Raj once, "I wonder which is more unethical! To give the same script to two actors or for the actors to compare notes and gloat in the press about it?"

Kunal is reluctant to speak on the matter. When coaxed he finally says, "I know Ranbir would never speak to damage my project, regardless of whether he does my film or not. Besides I did not submit the same script to the two actors."

That leaves us with the question on why Imran Khan has been comparing notes about his scripts with his colleagues and tomtomming the fact in the press when in fact Kohli says he has just finished his script and will now approach the suitable actor (apparently, it's Saif again).

According to Kohli, he's producing two films. One of the subjects is to be directed by Kunal's assistant while the other is a political satire which he will co-produce with BIG Pictures.

A theory doing the rounds is that sections of Yash Raj Films from where Kohli broke away last year were spreading the rumours in the bid to stop top actors from working with him.

But Kunal Kohli gives Yash Raj a clean chit. "My wife Raveena still works for Yash Raj and my relations with them are cordial. Aditya Chopra is too above all these things. But I would like to say that no actor should disclose which project comes to him. Have you ever heard Mr. Bachchan or Shah Rukh talking about what they are offered? My Hum Tum went to Hrithik Roshan and Vivek Oberoi before it came to Saif. Did you ever hear those two actors talking about Hum Tum? Are you aware of how many actors were offered Lagaan? All these premature efforts to talk about my cast are just so annoying."

In brief, Imran Khan's statements suggesting that Kunal Kohli came to him with the same script that he gave to Ranbir are premature and unethical.

Hrithik-Barbara Mori to promote Kites at Cannes

By now, it is common knowledge that Rakesh Roshan is taking his ambitious project Kites to the prestigious Cannes film festival this year. However, the film won't be screened for the public or the media at Cannes; instead, this is just a screening for potential buyers from the West.

Kites is a story of love that goes beyond barriers, boundaries and cultures. The film stars Hrithik Roshan, Kangna Ranaut and Latin sensation Barbara Mori. The chemistry between Hrithik and Barbara is said to be among the high points of the film.

Kites is the first film by Filmkraft that has a truly international appeal. Hence the makers are leaving no stone unturned to promote the film at various international platforms. The Kites unit, comprising Hrithik Roshan, Rakesh Roshan, Barbara Mori and director Anurag Basu, will be in Cannes from May 14-17. A specially-prepared trailer will also be screened to attract potential international buyers.

Indeed, the makers of Kites are going full throttle to ensure that the film gets maximum publicity across various media.

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Katrina Kaif meets Royal challengers contest winners

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