Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan insists on doing his own thing as the host of the super-duper game show 'Kaun Banega Crorepati' than ape its illustrious former anchor mega superstar Amitabh Bachchan .
"With all humility, I will do it my way. Please allow me a chance to be me and respect me for that." This is what SRK had to say on being the chosen one to succeed Bachchan, while talking to the media in New Delhi.
Asked whether he would be able to match Bachchan in style and poise, rather "fit into his shoes," SRK said: "They are too big for me. I am too small for them."
But he was quick to add that it was the show's concept that made it so popular in as many as 106 countries. "Obviously, as time goes by, anchors change. I am not a permanent person, may be."
SRK said he will bring in his personality to the show but "maintain the beauty of Amitabh."
SRK, who has been signed on for two series or roughly 100 episodes for an undisclosed sum, is set to don the mantle of the quizmaster from January 2007.
"Shah Rukh is undoubtedly our reigning King of Indian cinema. His wit, charm, energy and style, coupled with the rock solid foundation of the show, will come together to give audiences an extraordinary TV viewing experience," Star Entertainment CEO Sameer Nair said.
Siddhartha Basu of Synergy Communication, the production house for the show, said SRK was "never the second choice to Bachchan but the next alternative."
Bachchan, for whom KBC served as the much-required catalyst to boost sagging professional fortunes in 2000, called it quits due to poor health and the TV network said it supported and respected his decision.
KBC will offer a mega prize money of Rs 2 crore to a contestant who answers 15 correct questions, and Star and Synergy said they add "some new things" to the format of the show in the new season with SRK.
Asked whether the re-entry into television would be at the cost of films, SRK said he was equally conscious to his career in cinema. "I do three films in a year and each film takes about 80-90 days. I still have a lot many days for this show," he said, adding: "I never went away from the small screen."
SRK said the "intelligence of the show" as well as its people-centric format were reasons that prompted him to take it up. "Through this, I can be interactive and will be able to meet people. I can come a lot closer to my audiences," he said, adding that he would make an effort to be a "loving friend" of the participants to make them comfortable.
SRK has had a sneak preview of KBC when he was invited as a guest on the show. Asked whether he would like to invite Bachchan to his show, he said: "I will go on bended knees to invite him."
Source: Apunkachoice
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Facts you never knew about SRK
Shahrukh Khan celebrates his 41st birthday today. We decided to do something special. We will tell you facts about Shahrukh that everyone might not know. Here is a sneak peak into Shahrukh’s life.
SRK says...
On Marriage
It’s nice to be married. You know you come back home from twenty thousand people who are screaming and shouting for you and than you come back to your wife… I think is a great leveler.
On Gauri
I was eighteen and she was fourteen when we met. What I liked about her was that I didn’t find it as difficult as I thought talking to a girl.
On Religion
Children should know about the value of God. Whether is a Hindu god or other Muslim god. So next to Ganeshji Laxmiji we have the Holy Kuran in our house.
On Parents
My Father was very sweet, soft spoken man.
He was the youngest freedom fighter for India actually. My mother was the opposite. She was outgoing and had a very attractive personality. She said I was like Dilip Kumar.
At Home
There are some unsaid rules. I will not make a phone call once I'm in the house. So you'll always see me making a phone call from the bathroom….. I close the door and then talk
On Mumbai
I think it's the greatest city in the world. It’s very important to my life and to me. I'll always be thankful that Mumbai has given me a family, and actually Mumbai has given me a life.
On Acting
For me, acting is very spiritual. It combines as sorts of soulful, religious and spiritual things that people do.
On time off
I don’t get excited going out but all my friends make fun that I keep saying that but I shop the most. I keep buying gadgets and stuff and I call them my “utterly useless shopping”.
On fans photographing
The only time I find people invasive is when I am eating. When I’m eating I don’t like people looking at me.
On time
I think time passes by very, very fast. I don’t ever have time to grow old. It’s so fast. I have this feeling that I am running a few days late in life.
Public persona
There has to be now a public face very clearly. And that public face is always smiling. And I’m tired. And I’m sometimes in a bad mood. But I cannot pass that onto people.
2nd November 1965. In New Delhi's Talwar Nursing Home, to parents Mir Taj Muhammad and Lateef Fatima, was born a young boy. For the family, that lived in Rajinder Nagar, a middle class locality in the national capital, it was time to rejoice and celebrate the newly born.
When he was just four years of age, Shah Rukh happened to throw a rock at a neighborhood boy because of which the latter's teeth broke. Late at night that day, the child's father came to the house in an inebriated state while wielding a knife. Shah Rukh's father coolly opened the door and when this man threatened to kill his son for what he had done, he crosschecked with Shah Rukh as to whether or not he had committed the act of mischief. When the child confessed, the dad asked him to go out and explain himself to the man who was not only drunk but also armed. Shah Rukh had to go outside and apologize for his deed.
Shah Rukh had won the Raman Subramanyam Award in Class X (1982-83) for character, all round performance in studies, sports and extra curricular activities and the Sword of Honour in Class XII (1984-85) for the Best all round performance, loyalty, obedience, integrity and sportsmanship.
The college where he studied was Delhi University's Hans Raj College, and Shah Rukh did his Economics Honours from the institution between 1985-88. When Hans Raj celebrated its Golden Jubilee, the college gave away 17 shields to its alumni who had excelled in their lives and professions and Shah Rukh was one of them.
After graduating from Hans Raj, he went on to join Jamia Milia Islamia's Mass Communications Research Centre to do his masters in filmmaking and journalism.
Shah Rukh had a solid theatre background and had worked with an institution like Barry John in New Delhi.
Shah Rukh was, in fact uncomfortably possessive about his lady love (Gauri), whom he lovingly calls Gaurima. So much so that he would pick up a quarrel with her even if she let her hair down…literally. Finally, Gauri lost her cool and without informing Shah Rukh, came down to Bombay. Shah Rukh followed her to the huge city and kept looking for her around the beaches because of his awareness that she was attracted to them in a big way. Later, a cab guy advised him to go to Aksa Beach and Gorai Beach. After searching frantically, he managed to track her down when she was standing in the water! Isn’t that filmi?
One of the reasons why Shah Rukh bought Mannat, his palatial bungalow, was since he wanted to have an exclusive prayer room. Shah Rukh says that if he were broke, he will sell everything except Mannat
Both the children, Aryan (13th November 1997) and Suhana (23rd May 2000) have been taught to revere the co-existence of Ganpati and Allah in the Khan household. How wonderfully they are being brought up manifests itself in the story that when Shah Rukh was having a critical neck surgery, Aryan went to the temple and said an Islamic prayer so that his father could get well soon.
Shahrukh Khan is a Muslim but celebrates Diwali and Christmas along with Eid every year. He keeps a Lakshmi Pooja every year in his office and at home. He even has a Christmas tree at home. From all the festivals Shahrukh’s kids love Christmas the most.
Shahrukh Khan has the holy Quran Bismillah kept along with the idols of Indian Gods at his place. His kids pray to both the God’s simultaneously.
Shahrukh Khan can be managed best only by his wife as she understands him the most. She is the only person who can command Shahrukh to do things. Infact Shahrukhs’s daughter Suhana imitates Gauri Khan very well by saying in a strict voice, “Shahrukh, eat your food.”
Shahrukh never asks anything for himself from God. It is always his family and his close people he asks for. But whenever he wants to ask for himself, he never goes to a temple but goes to his parent’s grave. He believes that whatever he will ask there will be fulfilled and yes most of them have come true which makes Shahrukh’s belief all the more strong.
Shahrukh requires a lot of his own space for himself and his near and dear ones understand that. Whenever Shahrukh is angry, he needs to be left alone or you will only make him angrier.
Shahrukh loves watching movies in the darkness of his car. He loves watching movies alone and peacefully.
Shahrukh is a complete game freak. In fact he turns everyone around him into a gaming freak. The latest game that Shahrukh is playing is Smackdown versus Raw which is a wrestling game. Shahrukh can’t wait to get his hands on the new Play Station 3 as he is not an XBOX fan.
Shahrukh studied at St. Columbus School and he believes that it is the best school in the whole world not because he studied in it, but because he feels they are very disciplined.
Shahrukh still remembers his first fan who is a lady. She was his fan even before he became a film star or a famous televison star. She remembers him since his theater days. She shouted Shahrukh’s name on the middle of the road when she spotted him. Shahrukh still cannot forget that moment.
For Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa, Shah Rukh had taken a signing amount of Rs 5,000 and did the entire film for Rs. 25,000.
Shah Rukh had signed a movie called Jadoo co-starring Raveena Tandon, Anupam Kher & Navneet Nishan to be directed by Pavan Kaul. But Shah Rukh refused to kiss Navneet who was playing a vampish role. Shah Rukh had promised himself that he would never kiss any actress on-screen. And, he has stuck to this till today.
Calcutta has a unique Shah Rukh Khan club that was founded by a Khan admirer Arnab Roy on 13th December 1995 after the release of DDLJ. The club established its own SRK museum in January 2002 and its members were thrilled when Shah Rukh himself visited them on 7th August 20.
SRK says...
On Marriage
It’s nice to be married. You know you come back home from twenty thousand people who are screaming and shouting for you and than you come back to your wife… I think is a great leveler.
On Gauri
I was eighteen and she was fourteen when we met. What I liked about her was that I didn’t find it as difficult as I thought talking to a girl.
On Religion
Children should know about the value of God. Whether is a Hindu god or other Muslim god. So next to Ganeshji Laxmiji we have the Holy Kuran in our house.
On Parents
My Father was very sweet, soft spoken man.
He was the youngest freedom fighter for India actually. My mother was the opposite. She was outgoing and had a very attractive personality. She said I was like Dilip Kumar.
At Home
There are some unsaid rules. I will not make a phone call once I'm in the house. So you'll always see me making a phone call from the bathroom….. I close the door and then talk
On Mumbai
I think it's the greatest city in the world. It’s very important to my life and to me. I'll always be thankful that Mumbai has given me a family, and actually Mumbai has given me a life.
On Acting
For me, acting is very spiritual. It combines as sorts of soulful, religious and spiritual things that people do.
On time off
I don’t get excited going out but all my friends make fun that I keep saying that but I shop the most. I keep buying gadgets and stuff and I call them my “utterly useless shopping”.
On fans photographing
The only time I find people invasive is when I am eating. When I’m eating I don’t like people looking at me.
On time
I think time passes by very, very fast. I don’t ever have time to grow old. It’s so fast. I have this feeling that I am running a few days late in life.
Public persona
There has to be now a public face very clearly. And that public face is always smiling. And I’m tired. And I’m sometimes in a bad mood. But I cannot pass that onto people.
Monday, October 23, 2006
People think I am a gay: SRK
Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, who likes to sprinkle his sentences with 'InshaAllah' (god willing), says he likes to fast during the holy month of Ramadan.
"I make it a point to fast at least three to four times during Ramadan," told Shah Rukh, who was recently in the capital to promote his film "Don".
But his hectic schedule does not permit him to fast the entire month.
"Because of my hectic schedule, I cannot fast the entire month. I do a lot of travelling, so it is tough. Besides, of late I have been on medication, so I have not been fasting," added Shah Rukh.
In an another candid interview, Shahrukh Khan talked about the gossips he hears about him. In this episode of Bollywood quotes, lets hear what the King Khan has to say.
King Khan reveals : “People think that I’m a gay. Recently somebody asked me if I’m still in touch with my feminine side. They ask me why did I do the Lux ad and things like that. They are very sweet about it but I know where they are heading. I think there is a feminine side to me, as people like to assume.”
So what else gossips did SRK hear about him. Shahrukh Khan spoke of the “gossip that I love fair women. And that’s why I don’t cheat on my family at home. I go abroad and am seen with fair ladies. Then there was this about my house that I have no windows at home because I want to make sure that nobody sees me.”
Source: Behindwoods
"I make it a point to fast at least three to four times during Ramadan," told Shah Rukh, who was recently in the capital to promote his film "Don".
But his hectic schedule does not permit him to fast the entire month.
"Because of my hectic schedule, I cannot fast the entire month. I do a lot of travelling, so it is tough. Besides, of late I have been on medication, so I have not been fasting," added Shah Rukh.
In an another candid interview, Shahrukh Khan talked about the gossips he hears about him. In this episode of Bollywood quotes, lets hear what the King Khan has to say.
King Khan reveals : “People think that I’m a gay. Recently somebody asked me if I’m still in touch with my feminine side. They ask me why did I do the Lux ad and things like that. They are very sweet about it but I know where they are heading. I think there is a feminine side to me, as people like to assume.”
So what else gossips did SRK hear about him. Shahrukh Khan spoke of the “gossip that I love fair women. And that’s why I don’t cheat on my family at home. I go abroad and am seen with fair ladies. Then there was this about my house that I have no windows at home because I want to make sure that nobody sees me.”
Source: Behindwoods
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
SRK to Play Bad Guy in Dhoom 3
Shahrukh makes ‘bad’ look ‘cool’. I’ve been saying it ever since ‘Don’ promos hit the air. Now, ‘Don’ is about to unveil his no-holds-barred villainous act soon but there’s more good news for SRK fans. According to a well placed source, King Khan will be essaying the bad-guy role in ‘Dhoom 3’. Bollywood is really getting confident when it comes to sequels it seems. For even before the release of ‘Dhoom 2’ the plans are already underway for ‘Dhoom 3’.
Another interesting bit of news is regarding Rishi and Neetu Kapoor’s hot looking son Ranbir Kapoor. He is currently wrapping up his debut venture in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s ‘Saawariya’ but his performance level has impressed the Yashraj banner so much that they’ve signed a three film contract with the Kapoor scion. And one of these films will be ‘Dhoom 3’. And no, Sanjay Gadhvi won’t be directing it.
It seems a lot of Dhoom is in store for all you guys out there….There’s always Vvvvrrrooooommm…For more excitement. Right!
Source: Indiaglitz
Another interesting bit of news is regarding Rishi and Neetu Kapoor’s hot looking son Ranbir Kapoor. He is currently wrapping up his debut venture in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s ‘Saawariya’ but his performance level has impressed the Yashraj banner so much that they’ve signed a three film contract with the Kapoor scion. And one of these films will be ‘Dhoom 3’. And no, Sanjay Gadhvi won’t be directing it.
It seems a lot of Dhoom is in store for all you guys out there….There’s always Vvvvrrrooooommm…For more excitement. Right!
Source: Indiaglitz
Preity and SRK walk away with the Lycra MTV Style awards
The Lycra MTV Style awards, the only award show in India which gives awards for being stylish and fashionable concluded last week. It was a grand affair that was attended by many high profile celebrities from all walks of life.
The evergreen Rishi Kapoor was bestowed the Maha Style Icon of the Year award. Preity Zinta & Shahrukh Khan were voted the Most Stylish Person in Film’s category in the male and female categories respectively, with their movie Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna also winning Most Stylish Film.
Hosted by the suave Karan Johar who was ably assisted by glamorous MTV VJs Anusha and Sophie, the show had trademark MTV wackiness effortlessly merged with music, style and fashion and punctuated with show-stopping displays
In an explosive finale, the stunning Preity Zinta, eternally sexy Salman Khan and king of cool, Akshay Kumar walked the ramp as a special promotion for their forthcoming film Jaan-e-Mann.
Also present at the event were Arjun Rampal, Ameesha Patel and Fardeen Khan along with a host of many other celebrities.
Source: Indiafm
The evergreen Rishi Kapoor was bestowed the Maha Style Icon of the Year award. Preity Zinta & Shahrukh Khan were voted the Most Stylish Person in Film’s category in the male and female categories respectively, with their movie Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna also winning Most Stylish Film.
Hosted by the suave Karan Johar who was ably assisted by glamorous MTV VJs Anusha and Sophie, the show had trademark MTV wackiness effortlessly merged with music, style and fashion and punctuated with show-stopping displays
In an explosive finale, the stunning Preity Zinta, eternally sexy Salman Khan and king of cool, Akshay Kumar walked the ramp as a special promotion for their forthcoming film Jaan-e-Mann.
Also present at the event were Arjun Rampal, Ameesha Patel and Fardeen Khan along with a host of many other celebrities.
Source: Indiafm
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Shah Rukh-Aamir together ?
Producer Bobby Bedi has dismissed reports that Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan will be seen together in a celluloid version of the mythological saga Mahabharata and says nothing has been finalised so far.
"Talks are still at a very early stage. The casting reports are just speculations and we have not yet arrived at any decision," Bedi, who is managing director of Kaleidoscope Entertainment.
Kaleidoscope Entertainment has produced films like "Bandit Queen", "Saathiya" and "Mangal Pandey".
The company has been contemplating a cinematic version of the Indian epic Mahabharata for quite some time, but it has not yet given final shape to the project - either in terms of the cast or the number of movies that will be made to retell the saga.
Said Bedi, "It is too early to talk. We might make one or two or even three. We are still in the process. We will let you know when we arrive at a decision."
If the speculation does finally come true, it would be the first time that the two top Khans would be sharing screen space.
Source: Santabanta
"Talks are still at a very early stage. The casting reports are just speculations and we have not yet arrived at any decision," Bedi, who is managing director of Kaleidoscope Entertainment.
Kaleidoscope Entertainment has produced films like "Bandit Queen", "Saathiya" and "Mangal Pandey".
The company has been contemplating a cinematic version of the Indian epic Mahabharata for quite some time, but it has not yet given final shape to the project - either in terms of the cast or the number of movies that will be made to retell the saga.
Said Bedi, "It is too early to talk. We might make one or two or even three. We are still in the process. We will let you know when we arrive at a decision."
If the speculation does finally come true, it would be the first time that the two top Khans would be sharing screen space.
Source: Santabanta
Shahrukh Khan- A muse to many!
Shahrukh Khan is here to rule hearts forever it seems. The ambitious Delhi go-getter who came to Mumbai with no godfather in the industry has achieved a hell lot and has had his tryst with destiny. He is rightly called the youth icon and is indisputably an inspiration to many!
His biography titled 'Still Reading Khan' written by Mustaq Shiekh is all set to unveil tomorrow. The 450 pages 4-kilo book is priced at Rs. 3000 and is basically a pictorial account of his journey from his early days to now.
"There is so much to SRK, Just one book is not enough, I think round about 90-95 books will do justice," Mustaq recently said in an interview. According to him, the book is the story of a survivor, a winner, an ongoing story of success.
For all you hardcore SRK fans, King khans autobiography is in the offing.
Not only that, as per reports in a daily, Anjanna Kuthiala will shortly showcase new sketches of the star on November 22. She did a series of 20 paintings on the star last year. The new sketches aren't for sale unlike the rest of her paintings, she informed the daily.
She thinks Shahrukh is very witty, charming and instinctive. She further added that SRK has been her muse ever since she met him.
Her muse??? We guess he is a source of inspiration for many across the globe!
Source: Glamsham
His biography titled 'Still Reading Khan' written by Mustaq Shiekh is all set to unveil tomorrow. The 450 pages 4-kilo book is priced at Rs. 3000 and is basically a pictorial account of his journey from his early days to now.
"There is so much to SRK, Just one book is not enough, I think round about 90-95 books will do justice," Mustaq recently said in an interview. According to him, the book is the story of a survivor, a winner, an ongoing story of success.
For all you hardcore SRK fans, King khans autobiography is in the offing.
Not only that, as per reports in a daily, Anjanna Kuthiala will shortly showcase new sketches of the star on November 22. She did a series of 20 paintings on the star last year. The new sketches aren't for sale unlike the rest of her paintings, she informed the daily.
She thinks Shahrukh is very witty, charming and instinctive. She further added that SRK has been her muse ever since she met him.
Her muse??? We guess he is a source of inspiration for many across the globe!
Source: Glamsham
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Dil Chahta Hai remake?
The guru is remaking SHOLAY. The chela has followed suit. Ramgopal Varma’s erstwhile assistant Rohit Jugraj [director of JAMES] is remaking the talked-about Farhan Akhtar film DIL CHAHTA HAI. At least that’s the speculation in the industry.
“Agreed, my next film is about female bonding and the plot revolves around three girls, but it’s not a remake of DIL CHAHTA HAI. Every two-hero film shouldn’t be mistaken as SHOLAY or a two-guy-one-girl love story can’t be a SAAGAR. It can be a HUM DIL DE CHUKE SANAM too,” Rohit enlightens.
So he’s not remaking DIL CHAHTA HAI? “Nahin, bilkul nahin! DIL CHAHTA HAI is a masterpiece, why should I tamper with it? My film looks at the relationship between three girls [Jhanvi, Ginny and Mansi], their bonding, the catfights, the sensitive moments, the ups and downs in a relationship… I am trying to understand women through my film,” he smiles.
Rohit hasn’t signed any actor yet, but the rumor mills are agog with the speculation that he has approached Sushmita Sen, Lara Dutta and Priyanka Chopra for the roles in question. True? “I am talking to five actors currently, of which three will be finalized in due course. Yes, we did approach Lara for one of the roles, but her dates posed a problem. I wouldn’t like to reveal the names of the other actors right now since nothing is on paper yet,” he clarifies.
Roopesh Gohil, a Mumbai-based entrepreneur, will produce the film, which is expected to roll in February 2007 at an overseas destination.
Source: IndiaFM
“Agreed, my next film is about female bonding and the plot revolves around three girls, but it’s not a remake of DIL CHAHTA HAI. Every two-hero film shouldn’t be mistaken as SHOLAY or a two-guy-one-girl love story can’t be a SAAGAR. It can be a HUM DIL DE CHUKE SANAM too,” Rohit enlightens.
So he’s not remaking DIL CHAHTA HAI? “Nahin, bilkul nahin! DIL CHAHTA HAI is a masterpiece, why should I tamper with it? My film looks at the relationship between three girls [Jhanvi, Ginny and Mansi], their bonding, the catfights, the sensitive moments, the ups and downs in a relationship… I am trying to understand women through my film,” he smiles.
Rohit hasn’t signed any actor yet, but the rumor mills are agog with the speculation that he has approached Sushmita Sen, Lara Dutta and Priyanka Chopra for the roles in question. True? “I am talking to five actors currently, of which three will be finalized in due course. Yes, we did approach Lara for one of the roles, but her dates posed a problem. I wouldn’t like to reveal the names of the other actors right now since nothing is on paper yet,” he clarifies.
Roopesh Gohil, a Mumbai-based entrepreneur, will produce the film, which is expected to roll in February 2007 at an overseas destination.
Source: IndiaFM
Shahrukh Khan's biography costs Rs3000
‘SRK’ will not just stand for Shah Rukh Khan anymore, but also for Still Reading Khan - A book about Shah Rukh that will be out this week.
The author, Mushtaq Shiekh, claims the book is not a biography neither is it a coffee table version of what King Khan epitomises. So what is this book that weighs four kilos and costs Rs 3,000, all about?
"I lovingly call it a movie in a book, high pitched drama, a story of a man, it has everything from a hardcore Hindi movie,” says Mushtaq.
But Still Reading Khan is not the only book on SRK that is set to hit the bookshelves.
Also in the wings is yet another biography by writer Anupama Chopra, and the one book that everybody's waiting for with bated breath - SRK's autobiography!
So does Mushtaq see competition ahead from his own subject?
"There is so much to SRK, Just one book is not enough, I think round about 90-95 books will do justice," he says.
Mushtaq's book is a pictorial journey of SRK from his days as a struggling actor in Delhi to his rise to fame as the Baadshah of Bollywood.
And going by Shah Rukh's popularity, you'll be still reading Khan for a long time.
Source: Santabanta
The author, Mushtaq Shiekh, claims the book is not a biography neither is it a coffee table version of what King Khan epitomises. So what is this book that weighs four kilos and costs Rs 3,000, all about?
"I lovingly call it a movie in a book, high pitched drama, a story of a man, it has everything from a hardcore Hindi movie,” says Mushtaq.
But Still Reading Khan is not the only book on SRK that is set to hit the bookshelves.
Also in the wings is yet another biography by writer Anupama Chopra, and the one book that everybody's waiting for with bated breath - SRK's autobiography!
So does Mushtaq see competition ahead from his own subject?
"There is so much to SRK, Just one book is not enough, I think round about 90-95 books will do justice," he says.
Mushtaq's book is a pictorial journey of SRK from his days as a struggling actor in Delhi to his rise to fame as the Baadshah of Bollywood.
And going by Shah Rukh's popularity, you'll be still reading Khan for a long time.
Source: Santabanta
Saturday, October 07, 2006
SRK or Salman?
The Big Friday 20th October is approaching fast and furious. And the plans have already started filling in. so, what’s your pick this festive season! SRK’s stylish ‘Don’ or Salman-Akshay’s paint-my-love ‘Jaaneman’… Both the pictures are looking extremely positive and Big Bollywood money is riding on them.
Ritesh Dishwani and Sajid Nadiadwala, the respective producers of ‘Don’ and ‘Jaaneman’ are leaving no stone unturned in ensuring a huge opening for their films.
They are determined to milk the Diwali Holidays from October 20th followed by Eid on 25th. It’s a well known fact that a sizable Muslim population stops watching films in the Ramzan and that’s one of the reasons why no big releases take place during the Ramzan month. With Diwali and Eid coming back to back, both ‘Don’ as well as ‘Jaaneman’ would surely try-n-cash-in on the long holiday period.
Bollywood is upbeat about the two releases and is hoping for an encore at the Box Office. This year has been phenomenal for the Hindi Film Industry and ‘Don’ and ‘Jaaneman’ may well carry that trend and create real history in the world of illusions. The commercial fate of these two movies will also decide who’s the bigger Khan…SRK or Sallu…Or will Akshay steal the thunder?
Source: Indiaglitz
Ritesh Dishwani and Sajid Nadiadwala, the respective producers of ‘Don’ and ‘Jaaneman’ are leaving no stone unturned in ensuring a huge opening for their films.
They are determined to milk the Diwali Holidays from October 20th followed by Eid on 25th. It’s a well known fact that a sizable Muslim population stops watching films in the Ramzan and that’s one of the reasons why no big releases take place during the Ramzan month. With Diwali and Eid coming back to back, both ‘Don’ as well as ‘Jaaneman’ would surely try-n-cash-in on the long holiday period.
Bollywood is upbeat about the two releases and is hoping for an encore at the Box Office. This year has been phenomenal for the Hindi Film Industry and ‘Don’ and ‘Jaaneman’ may well carry that trend and create real history in the world of illusions. The commercial fate of these two movies will also decide who’s the bigger Khan…SRK or Sallu…Or will Akshay steal the thunder?
Source: Indiaglitz
Top Scoop: Shahrukh Khan to coach girls
In what seems like a tongue-in-cheek homage to the spirit of sportsmanship, Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has been cast as the coach of a girls' hockey team in a film by "Ab Tak Chhappan" fame director Shimit Amin.
We have seen films about cricket and football, so a film on hockey comes as no surprise. In fact, Vivek Agnihotri is currently scripting a film on football.
Amin is seriously enthused about the film.
"It's a dying art form. While we continue to go into ecstasy over cricket we hardly seem to realise that hockey is a true-blue Indian game and we need to give it the respect it deserves," he told.
The reticent moviemaker admits he doesn't play any sport.
"But I watch a lot of them. I've never played any sport. And I knew nothing about hockey until I researched for my film. I feel a detachment from the subject always provides added insights into the film. If you look at Hollywood they invite directors from the outside to make films about their themes and culture.
"Sam Mendes, who made the very American 'American Beauty' is British. Likewise, when I came to India from the US to make 'Ab Tak Chhappan' for Ram Gopal Varma, I knew as much about the workings of the Indian police force and 'encounter' killings as I did about hockey. The challenge to me is making a film that allows me to go into unexplored territory."
The director has cast girls as hockey players in the team.
"The girls have to be sporty and swift hockey players. It isn't easy. The game is no longer that popular. It requires physically fit players. And it looks like a struggle ahead to get girl players in place before we go into production."
Jaideep Sahni has scripted this very unusual film.
"This is a very exciting time to be a film director in Hindi cinema. Last year we had several films that broke the mould. Once in a while something comes along to push the envelope. After 'Ab Tak Chhappan' I wanted to make a film that was completely Indian in spirit."
Amin is all praise for his producers.
"I'm so glad I came to Yash Raj Films for my second film. After Ram Gopal Varma, I needed a producer who would provide me with complete creative freedom. I'm not the least surprised if I withdraw into my own work-shell and not react to such stories. I'd rather be seen than heard."
The director says he loves the portrayal of families in films.
"I love the idea of families staying together, interacting through crisis and drama. In fact, the film is also about family ties."
Source: Santabanta
We have seen films about cricket and football, so a film on hockey comes as no surprise. In fact, Vivek Agnihotri is currently scripting a film on football.
Amin is seriously enthused about the film.
"It's a dying art form. While we continue to go into ecstasy over cricket we hardly seem to realise that hockey is a true-blue Indian game and we need to give it the respect it deserves," he told.
The reticent moviemaker admits he doesn't play any sport.
"But I watch a lot of them. I've never played any sport. And I knew nothing about hockey until I researched for my film. I feel a detachment from the subject always provides added insights into the film. If you look at Hollywood they invite directors from the outside to make films about their themes and culture.
"Sam Mendes, who made the very American 'American Beauty' is British. Likewise, when I came to India from the US to make 'Ab Tak Chhappan' for Ram Gopal Varma, I knew as much about the workings of the Indian police force and 'encounter' killings as I did about hockey. The challenge to me is making a film that allows me to go into unexplored territory."
The director has cast girls as hockey players in the team.
"The girls have to be sporty and swift hockey players. It isn't easy. The game is no longer that popular. It requires physically fit players. And it looks like a struggle ahead to get girl players in place before we go into production."
Jaideep Sahni has scripted this very unusual film.
"This is a very exciting time to be a film director in Hindi cinema. Last year we had several films that broke the mould. Once in a while something comes along to push the envelope. After 'Ab Tak Chhappan' I wanted to make a film that was completely Indian in spirit."
Amin is all praise for his producers.
"I'm so glad I came to Yash Raj Films for my second film. After Ram Gopal Varma, I needed a producer who would provide me with complete creative freedom. I'm not the least surprised if I withdraw into my own work-shell and not react to such stories. I'd rather be seen than heard."
The director says he loves the portrayal of families in films.
"I love the idea of families staying together, interacting through crisis and drama. In fact, the film is also about family ties."
Source: Santabanta
Read Shah Rukh Khan`s personal and professional achievements
'SRK-Still Reading Khan', a book chronicling Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan 's personal and professional achievements will be released on October 11.
The book is written by SRK's close friend and television scriptwriter Mushtaq Sheikh.
Mushtaq has over the years built close friendships with the film community and says that he has come to regard several colleagues as an extended family. "One such valued member is Shah Rukh. The close proximity with Shah Rukh's world and the firm ties of friendship and as a fellow traveller for a good part of our lives, led to destiny choosing me to be one who would chronicle the story of his journey," the writer said.
"There's always been a patriarch for every field. He leads, people follow. He takes new paths - praised if he's successful, derided if he fails. But then somebody has to do the job. Somebody has to invent for the others to reinvent. Somebody has to stand up for our fifty six year old philosophy - for the people, by the people, to the people. Shah Rukh Khan did just that. He invades areas where no actor has ever been," he added.
“Shah Rukh Khan had stepped into the film world as an outsider, a young man bereaved from the loss of his parents, seeking solace, work and passion in an alien world. Today, this outsider is the most familiar member in every fan's household. This book is therefore also the tale of a journey that led from a suburban housing colony in New Delhi into the homes, hearts and minds of innumerable fans all over the world, a journey that transcended boundaries of nations, and the artificial barriers of culture,” Mushtaq added.
According to him, the book is the story of a survivor, a winner, a never-ending story of success.
For TV, Mushtaq has also penned 'The Making of Asoka ', a film produced by SRK.
In the book, Mushtaq says that a clear brand philosophy and a brilliant understanding of mass psyche has been the strength of the SRK product.
"He is probably the best brand ever churned out by an Indian industry.
Outrageous and outspoken in his interviews, he played to the masses right. Then there is the proverbial pinch of salt with which SRK takes himself. While his work reflects his passion, there has always been that wry black humour that grounds his reality. He has consistently stripped the idealistic glamour from his profession by branding himself a performer," the writer says about his book.
One section of this story deals with the portrait of the artist as an individual, while the other would be an analytical commentary of his body of work and closer look at the SRK phenomenon through his films.
The book explains the strongest points of attraction that a SRK film holds for the audience. It talks about the emotions and economics of being the SRK Brand. The book would reveal a candid star talking unreservedly on his art and acting.
Source: Apunkachoice
The book is written by SRK's close friend and television scriptwriter Mushtaq Sheikh.
Mushtaq has over the years built close friendships with the film community and says that he has come to regard several colleagues as an extended family. "One such valued member is Shah Rukh. The close proximity with Shah Rukh's world and the firm ties of friendship and as a fellow traveller for a good part of our lives, led to destiny choosing me to be one who would chronicle the story of his journey," the writer said.
"There's always been a patriarch for every field. He leads, people follow. He takes new paths - praised if he's successful, derided if he fails. But then somebody has to do the job. Somebody has to invent for the others to reinvent. Somebody has to stand up for our fifty six year old philosophy - for the people, by the people, to the people. Shah Rukh Khan did just that. He invades areas where no actor has ever been," he added.
“Shah Rukh Khan had stepped into the film world as an outsider, a young man bereaved from the loss of his parents, seeking solace, work and passion in an alien world. Today, this outsider is the most familiar member in every fan's household. This book is therefore also the tale of a journey that led from a suburban housing colony in New Delhi into the homes, hearts and minds of innumerable fans all over the world, a journey that transcended boundaries of nations, and the artificial barriers of culture,” Mushtaq added.
According to him, the book is the story of a survivor, a winner, a never-ending story of success.
For TV, Mushtaq has also penned 'The Making of Asoka ', a film produced by SRK.
In the book, Mushtaq says that a clear brand philosophy and a brilliant understanding of mass psyche has been the strength of the SRK product.
"He is probably the best brand ever churned out by an Indian industry.
Outrageous and outspoken in his interviews, he played to the masses right. Then there is the proverbial pinch of salt with which SRK takes himself. While his work reflects his passion, there has always been that wry black humour that grounds his reality. He has consistently stripped the idealistic glamour from his profession by branding himself a performer," the writer says about his book.
One section of this story deals with the portrait of the artist as an individual, while the other would be an analytical commentary of his body of work and closer look at the SRK phenomenon through his films.
The book explains the strongest points of attraction that a SRK film holds for the audience. It talks about the emotions and economics of being the SRK Brand. The book would reveal a candid star talking unreservedly on his art and acting.
Source: Apunkachoice
Friday, October 06, 2006
Shah Rukh to play hockey coach in Chak De India
In what seems like a tongue-in-cheek homage to the spirit of sportsmanship, Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has been cast as the coach of a girls' hockey team in a film by "Ab Tak Chhappan" fame director Shimit Amin.
We have seen films about cricket and football, so a film on hockey comes as no surprise. In fact, Vivek Agnihotri is currently scripting a film on football.
Amin is seriously enthused about the film.
"It's a dying art form. While we continue to go into ecstasy over cricket we hardly seem to realise that hockey is a true-blue Indian game and we need to give it the respect it deserves," he told IANS.
The reticent moviemaker admits he doesn't play any sport.
"But I watch a lot of them. I've never played any sport. And I knew nothing about hockey until I researched for my film. I feel a detachment from the subject always provides added insights into the film. If you look at Hollywood they invite directors from the outside to make films about their themes and culture.
"Sam Mendes, who made the very American 'American Beauty' is British. Likewise, when I came to India from the US to make 'Ab Tak Chhappan' for Ram Gopal Varma, I knew as much about the workings of the Indian police force and 'encounter' killings as I did about hockey. The challenge to me is making a film that allows me to go into unexplored territory."
The director has cast girls as hockey players in the team.
"The girls have to be sporty and swift hockey players. It isn't easy. The game is no longer that popular. It requires physically fit players. And it looks like a struggle ahead to get girl players in place before we go into production."
Jaideep Sahni has scripted this very unusual film.
"This is a very exciting time to be a film director in Hindi cinema. Last year we had several films that broke the mould. Once in a while something comes along to push the envelope. After 'Ab Tak Chhappan' I wanted to make a film that was completely Indian in spirit."
Amin is all praise for his producers.
"I'm so glad I came to Yash Raj Films for my second film. After Ram Gopal Varma, I needed a producer who would provide me with complete creative freedom. I'm not the least surprised if I withdraw into my own work-shell and not react to such stories. I'd rather be seen than heard."
The director says he loves the portrayal of families in films.
"I love the idea of families staying together, interacting through crisis and drama. In fact, the film is also about family ties."
Source: IANS
We have seen films about cricket and football, so a film on hockey comes as no surprise. In fact, Vivek Agnihotri is currently scripting a film on football.
Amin is seriously enthused about the film.
"It's a dying art form. While we continue to go into ecstasy over cricket we hardly seem to realise that hockey is a true-blue Indian game and we need to give it the respect it deserves," he told IANS.
The reticent moviemaker admits he doesn't play any sport.
"But I watch a lot of them. I've never played any sport. And I knew nothing about hockey until I researched for my film. I feel a detachment from the subject always provides added insights into the film. If you look at Hollywood they invite directors from the outside to make films about their themes and culture.
"Sam Mendes, who made the very American 'American Beauty' is British. Likewise, when I came to India from the US to make 'Ab Tak Chhappan' for Ram Gopal Varma, I knew as much about the workings of the Indian police force and 'encounter' killings as I did about hockey. The challenge to me is making a film that allows me to go into unexplored territory."
The director has cast girls as hockey players in the team.
"The girls have to be sporty and swift hockey players. It isn't easy. The game is no longer that popular. It requires physically fit players. And it looks like a struggle ahead to get girl players in place before we go into production."
Jaideep Sahni has scripted this very unusual film.
"This is a very exciting time to be a film director in Hindi cinema. Last year we had several films that broke the mould. Once in a while something comes along to push the envelope. After 'Ab Tak Chhappan' I wanted to make a film that was completely Indian in spirit."
Amin is all praise for his producers.
"I'm so glad I came to Yash Raj Films for my second film. After Ram Gopal Varma, I needed a producer who would provide me with complete creative freedom. I'm not the least surprised if I withdraw into my own work-shell and not react to such stories. I'd rather be seen than heard."
The director says he loves the portrayal of families in films.
"I love the idea of families staying together, interacting through crisis and drama. In fact, the film is also about family ties."
Source: IANS
Shimit Amin on Shah Rukh Khan
We've seen films about cricket. And football….In fact Vivek Agnihotri is currently scripting a football film.
But hockey?! Shimit 'Ab Tak Chappan'Amin is directing a film centered around the game of hockey. In what looks like a seriously tongue-in-cheek homage to the spirit of sportsmanship, Shah Rukh Khan has been cast as the coach of an all-girls' hockey team.
Director Shimit Amin is seriously enthused about hockey. "It's a dying art form….While we continue to go into ecstasy over cricket we hardly seem to realize that hockey is a true-blue Indian game and we need to give it the respect it deserves."
The reticent movie maker admits he doesn't play any sport. "But I watch a lot of them. I've never played any sport. And I knew nothing about hockey until I researched for my film. I feel a detachment from the subject always provides added insights into the film . If you look at Hollywood they invite directors from the outside to make films about their themes and culture. Sam Mendes who made the very American
American Beauty is a Britisher. Likewise when I came to India from the US to make Ab Tak Chappan for Ram Gopal Varma, I knew as much about the workings of the Indian police force and encounter killings as I did about hockey. The challenge to me in making a film that allows me to go into unexplored territory."
The director has cast girls as hockey players in the team. "Yes we're working suitable girls who have to be sporty and swift hockey players. It isn't easy. The game is no longer that popular. It requires physically fit players. And it looks like a struggle ahead to get girl players in place before we go into production."
Jaideep Sahni has scripted this very unsual film. Says Shimit, "This is a very exciting time to be a film director in Hindi cinema. Last year we had several films that broke the mould. Once in a while something comes along to push the envelope. After Ab Tak Chappan I wanted to make a film that was completely Indian in spirit."
Shimit is all praise for his producers. "I'm so glad I came to Yashraj Films for my second film. After Ram Gopal Varma I again needed a producer who would provide me with complete creative freedom. I'm not the least surprised if I withdraw into my own work-shell and not react to such stories. I’d rather be seen than heard."
The director says he loves family ties as portrayed in films. "I love the idea of families staying together , interacting through crisis and drama. In fact the hockey film is also about family ties."
Source: IndiaFM
But hockey?! Shimit 'Ab Tak Chappan'Amin is directing a film centered around the game of hockey. In what looks like a seriously tongue-in-cheek homage to the spirit of sportsmanship, Shah Rukh Khan has been cast as the coach of an all-girls' hockey team.
Director Shimit Amin is seriously enthused about hockey. "It's a dying art form….While we continue to go into ecstasy over cricket we hardly seem to realize that hockey is a true-blue Indian game and we need to give it the respect it deserves."
The reticent movie maker admits he doesn't play any sport. "But I watch a lot of them. I've never played any sport. And I knew nothing about hockey until I researched for my film. I feel a detachment from the subject always provides added insights into the film . If you look at Hollywood they invite directors from the outside to make films about their themes and culture. Sam Mendes who made the very American
American Beauty is a Britisher. Likewise when I came to India from the US to make Ab Tak Chappan for Ram Gopal Varma, I knew as much about the workings of the Indian police force and encounter killings as I did about hockey. The challenge to me in making a film that allows me to go into unexplored territory."
The director has cast girls as hockey players in the team. "Yes we're working suitable girls who have to be sporty and swift hockey players. It isn't easy. The game is no longer that popular. It requires physically fit players. And it looks like a struggle ahead to get girl players in place before we go into production."
Jaideep Sahni has scripted this very unsual film. Says Shimit, "This is a very exciting time to be a film director in Hindi cinema. Last year we had several films that broke the mould. Once in a while something comes along to push the envelope. After Ab Tak Chappan I wanted to make a film that was completely Indian in spirit."
Shimit is all praise for his producers. "I'm so glad I came to Yashraj Films for my second film. After Ram Gopal Varma I again needed a producer who would provide me with complete creative freedom. I'm not the least surprised if I withdraw into my own work-shell and not react to such stories. I’d rather be seen than heard."
The director says he loves family ties as portrayed in films. "I love the idea of families staying together , interacting through crisis and drama. In fact the hockey film is also about family ties."
Source: IndiaFM
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Shah Rukh Khan with Anubhav Sinha?
Shah Rukh Khan is now busy till September 2008. After he is through with Yash Raj Films’ Shimit Amin directed 'Chak De India', he will shoot for Farah Khan's 'Om Shanti Om' and then he is committed to an Anubhav Sinha project.
According to King Khan himself, "Anubhav and I are interacting on the script regularly."
His acceptance of Shimit Amin's movie and Anubhav Sinha's new venture is a clear indication that that SRK is willing to work with directors outside his friends' circle.
Source: IndiaFM
According to King Khan himself, "Anubhav and I are interacting on the script regularly."
His acceptance of Shimit Amin's movie and Anubhav Sinha's new venture is a clear indication that that SRK is willing to work with directors outside his friends' circle.
Source: IndiaFM
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Shahrukh Khan- The modest Samaritan!
Shahrukh Khan has retained his humility, despite being one of the biggest superstars in the country. Unlike most people, this modest actor doesn't go tom-toming about his social endeavors.
Just recently he was in news for the unfortunate mishap that happened outside his bungalow. His business manager informed a daily that the actor has sponsored a huge amount to the bereaved family of the guard who was shot. He will provide financial assistance to his family. Though she didn't disclose the amount, it is learnt that the family was more than happy with the arrangement.
Way to go King Khan!
Source: Bollywood Trade News Network
Just recently he was in news for the unfortunate mishap that happened outside his bungalow. His business manager informed a daily that the actor has sponsored a huge amount to the bereaved family of the guard who was shot. He will provide financial assistance to his family. Though she didn't disclose the amount, it is learnt that the family was more than happy with the arrangement.
Way to go King Khan!
Source: Bollywood Trade News Network
Monday, September 11, 2006
Shah Rukh trashes Hollywood!
The presence of Amitabh Bachchan, Shahrukh Khan and Karan Johar notwithstanding, a press conference here ahead of the screening of "Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna" at the 31st Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), was rather sparsely attended.
Whether this was due to the 9.30 a.m. slot or otherwise, the press meet at the Sutton Place Hotel attracted more shutterbugs than pen pushers and more North America-based Indian freelancers than international journos.
Even so, the three high-profile men on the panel were in their elements as they fielded questions about their film as well as about Bollywood's position in the global context.
Both Karan and Shahrukh Khan stressed that it was crucial for Bollywood to constantly participate in international film festivals in order to further its overall strategy to go global.
Karan said: "I do not come to a major international platform like this because of any immediate commercial reason. Whether I am in Toronto or in Cannes, my primary intention is to sensitise the world not just to my own film but to Indian cinema as a whole.
"We have a unique format of storytelling and we should be proud of it. But it is always a good idea to look for global exposure for the beautiful movies that we make," said the super-successful Bollywood director.
Shahrukh said: "I have been to a few international film festivals. It is not enough to merely take a particular film to a global audience. It is important for us to explain to the market why Bollywood films continue to thrive despite growing competition from Hollywood.
"Conversely, we should also try and understand how global producers, distributors and exhibitors operate and tell them that we are ready to do business with them."
But both Karan and Shahrukh insisted that Bollywood must not sacrifice its internationally recognised USP - the song and dance and high drama-driven narrative style.
"We should find our place in the world without sacrificing our intrinsic character," Shahrukh asserted.
Source: Santabanta
Whether this was due to the 9.30 a.m. slot or otherwise, the press meet at the Sutton Place Hotel attracted more shutterbugs than pen pushers and more North America-based Indian freelancers than international journos.
Even so, the three high-profile men on the panel were in their elements as they fielded questions about their film as well as about Bollywood's position in the global context.
Both Karan and Shahrukh Khan stressed that it was crucial for Bollywood to constantly participate in international film festivals in order to further its overall strategy to go global.
Karan said: "I do not come to a major international platform like this because of any immediate commercial reason. Whether I am in Toronto or in Cannes, my primary intention is to sensitise the world not just to my own film but to Indian cinema as a whole.
"We have a unique format of storytelling and we should be proud of it. But it is always a good idea to look for global exposure for the beautiful movies that we make," said the super-successful Bollywood director.
Shahrukh said: "I have been to a few international film festivals. It is not enough to merely take a particular film to a global audience. It is important for us to explain to the market why Bollywood films continue to thrive despite growing competition from Hollywood.
"Conversely, we should also try and understand how global producers, distributors and exhibitors operate and tell them that we are ready to do business with them."
But both Karan and Shahrukh insisted that Bollywood must not sacrifice its internationally recognised USP - the song and dance and high drama-driven narrative style.
"We should find our place in the world without sacrificing our intrinsic character," Shahrukh asserted.
Source: Santabanta
Don - Farhan Shoots Two Climaxes !
According to our sources , two climaxes have been shot by Farhan Akhtar for his upcoming Shah Rukh Khan-Priyanka 'Diwali-Eid' release 'Don' . It is obvious that one of the two is to be used in the movie and it is still to be decided which one . We know about both but that will qualify as a huge spoiler .
Yes , it is quite different from that of the 1977 Amitabh 'Don' and is quite a unique one and even King Khan says " Don't miss the beginning and the end ! "
Don't worry we wont SRK !
Source: Planetbollywood
Yes , it is quite different from that of the 1977 Amitabh 'Don' and is quite a unique one and even King Khan says " Don't miss the beginning and the end ! "
Don't worry we wont SRK !
Source: Planetbollywood
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Shah Rukh and Sushmita in 'Dulha Mil Gaya'?
Though actors Shah Rukh Khan and Sushmita Sen are yet to sign on the dotted line, producer Viveck Vaswani seems set to cast them in his film 'Dulha Mil Gaya'.
Vaswani's Insight Productions will shoot this big budget film in Trinidad and Tobago, reports Bollywood Trade.
The first Indian film to be shot on the Carribean island may see some known cricket players, including Brian Lara. But Vaswani has brushed aside reports that he was keen to cast Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar in a small role as 'rumour'.
Vaswani who is all charged about the project said: 'The film has become the hottest title in the industry and we have been inundated with calls from producers asking us to part with the title.'
The film marks the directorial debut of Mudassar Aziz, writer of Tanuja Chandra's 'Zindaggi Rocks' and Mahesh Bhatt's 'Showbiz'.
'Mudassar is keen to work with Sushmita after 'Zindaggi Rocks'. We are planning to meet Sushmita,' said Vaswani, who is just back from Trinidad after filming probable locations.
Talking about Sushmita he said: 'I have known Sushmita since her first film 'Dastak' which was released 10 years ago. I have been closely following her career since.'
If Shah Rukh signs on the dotted lines, he will be featured as a rich Trinidadian millionaire.
It may be recalled that Vaswani had cast Shah Rukh in the early years of his career for 'Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman' which was directed by Aziz Mirza. The film was Mirza's directorial debut and made him the most sought after director and also boosted Shah Rukh's career.
Vaswani has written the story of 'Dulha Mil Gaya' and describes it as a warm and witty film set in Trinidad that will have many firsts to its credits.
'It is one of the finest stories I have written and will be the most promising directorial debut of 2007, with Mudassar doing the screenplay, dialogues, lyrics and the direction. He is an incredible powerhouse of talent,' he said.
Vaswani has decided to release the film in May 2007 and has already struck a deal for international rights of the film.
Source: Indo Asian News Service
Vaswani's Insight Productions will shoot this big budget film in Trinidad and Tobago, reports Bollywood Trade.
The first Indian film to be shot on the Carribean island may see some known cricket players, including Brian Lara. But Vaswani has brushed aside reports that he was keen to cast Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar in a small role as 'rumour'.
Vaswani who is all charged about the project said: 'The film has become the hottest title in the industry and we have been inundated with calls from producers asking us to part with the title.'
The film marks the directorial debut of Mudassar Aziz, writer of Tanuja Chandra's 'Zindaggi Rocks' and Mahesh Bhatt's 'Showbiz'.
'Mudassar is keen to work with Sushmita after 'Zindaggi Rocks'. We are planning to meet Sushmita,' said Vaswani, who is just back from Trinidad after filming probable locations.
Talking about Sushmita he said: 'I have known Sushmita since her first film 'Dastak' which was released 10 years ago. I have been closely following her career since.'
If Shah Rukh signs on the dotted lines, he will be featured as a rich Trinidadian millionaire.
It may be recalled that Vaswani had cast Shah Rukh in the early years of his career for 'Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman' which was directed by Aziz Mirza. The film was Mirza's directorial debut and made him the most sought after director and also boosted Shah Rukh's career.
Vaswani has written the story of 'Dulha Mil Gaya' and describes it as a warm and witty film set in Trinidad that will have many firsts to its credits.
'It is one of the finest stories I have written and will be the most promising directorial debut of 2007, with Mudassar doing the screenplay, dialogues, lyrics and the direction. He is an incredible powerhouse of talent,' he said.
Vaswani has decided to release the film in May 2007 and has already struck a deal for international rights of the film.
Source: Indo Asian News Service
Friday, September 01, 2006
It's true! Shah Rukh Khan sells
Just a year back there was a famous adage in Bollywood that either sex or Shah Rukh Khan sells at the box-office. While 'sex' is debatable, Shah Rukh surely sells.
The business figures of Shah Rukh's latest release Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna speak for themselves. The movie has become the biggest Bollywood opener at the box-office overseas. And in its third week since release, the film is still running to almost packed houses in many theatres in Delhi and Mumbai.
Though KANK is a multistarrer, SRK is the backbone of the movie. He is there from the opening reels right to the film's conclusion. It is to him the most footage is given. And, as expected, the fans of the superstar have immensely liked the film and his performance in it, no matter how some critics may have panned it.
Just to present some business figures, KANK has raked in an impressive amount of Rs. 31 crores in its run so far in the three major markets – US, UK and Australia.
Shah Rukh could not have hoped for a better resurgence after a long hibernation since the release of his film Paheli last year. While this year saw a good number of films featuring other no-less-talented stars, it is Shah Rukh who ends up stealing the thunder at the box-office.
And now, the deserving superstar is all geared up for another round in the coming months as Farhan Akhtar's Don readies for release in the Diwali weekend.
Judging by the movie's promos, it is going to be an adrenalin rushing thriller as Shah Rukh steps into the role immortalized by Amitabh Bachchan more than two decades ago.
At the 'Don' music launch in Mumbai recently, Shah Rukh gave his fans a teaser of what to expect from the movie when he delivered a few dialogues. The one that got the loudest applause was : Don ko pakadna mushkil hi nahin, namumkin bhi hai (To catch Don is not only difficult, it's impossible).
Well, the dialogue surely befits the superstar as far as the box-office earnings go.
ApunkaChoice
The business figures of Shah Rukh's latest release Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna speak for themselves. The movie has become the biggest Bollywood opener at the box-office overseas. And in its third week since release, the film is still running to almost packed houses in many theatres in Delhi and Mumbai.
Though KANK is a multistarrer, SRK is the backbone of the movie. He is there from the opening reels right to the film's conclusion. It is to him the most footage is given. And, as expected, the fans of the superstar have immensely liked the film and his performance in it, no matter how some critics may have panned it.
Just to present some business figures, KANK has raked in an impressive amount of Rs. 31 crores in its run so far in the three major markets – US, UK and Australia.
Shah Rukh could not have hoped for a better resurgence after a long hibernation since the release of his film Paheli last year. While this year saw a good number of films featuring other no-less-talented stars, it is Shah Rukh who ends up stealing the thunder at the box-office.
And now, the deserving superstar is all geared up for another round in the coming months as Farhan Akhtar's Don readies for release in the Diwali weekend.
Judging by the movie's promos, it is going to be an adrenalin rushing thriller as Shah Rukh steps into the role immortalized by Amitabh Bachchan more than two decades ago.
At the 'Don' music launch in Mumbai recently, Shah Rukh gave his fans a teaser of what to expect from the movie when he delivered a few dialogues. The one that got the loudest applause was : Don ko pakadna mushkil hi nahin, namumkin bhi hai (To catch Don is not only difficult, it's impossible).
Well, the dialogue surely befits the superstar as far as the box-office earnings go.
ApunkaChoice
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
If SRK can, why can't others?
Its sequel and remake time at Bollywood. Shahrukh Khan is all set to cast his spell on his fans with Faran Akhtar’s Don, the remake of Amitabh Bachchan starrer Don. Aishwarya Rai, Hrithik Roshan and Abhishek Bachchan appear in the Diwali release of Dhoom2, a sequel to Dhoom.
Bollywood has found a new formala. Just go after remakes and releases of superhit movies. This way, those who liked the older movie will surely turn up to see what happens in the newer version. Krissh was a Megahit recently and Phir Hera Pheri was a hit.
Ram Gopal is trying to remake Sholay with Big B Amitabh Bachchan as Gabbar. He knows remakes and sequels work these days and so he has named the Mohit Ahlawat and Nisha Kothari movie Shiva and labelled it as a newer version of Shiva.
Munnabhai Lago Raho releases in a few weeks in an attempt to create the same magic as MBBS.
Till now the remakes and sequels have been good... from Devdas to Krissh to Phir Hera Pheri. But with the Bollywood music industry getting flooded with remixes of old songs, one fears that this trend with movies will continue and soon will be over exploited by low quality remakes.
Atleast, this is much better than remaking (copying frame by frame) Hollywood movies !!
Source: Santabanta
Bollywood has found a new formala. Just go after remakes and releases of superhit movies. This way, those who liked the older movie will surely turn up to see what happens in the newer version. Krissh was a Megahit recently and Phir Hera Pheri was a hit.
Ram Gopal is trying to remake Sholay with Big B Amitabh Bachchan as Gabbar. He knows remakes and sequels work these days and so he has named the Mohit Ahlawat and Nisha Kothari movie Shiva and labelled it as a newer version of Shiva.
Munnabhai Lago Raho releases in a few weeks in an attempt to create the same magic as MBBS.
Till now the remakes and sequels have been good... from Devdas to Krissh to Phir Hera Pheri. But with the Bollywood music industry getting flooded with remixes of old songs, one fears that this trend with movies will continue and soon will be over exploited by low quality remakes.
Atleast, this is much better than remaking (copying frame by frame) Hollywood movies !!
Source: Santabanta
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
Kunal Kohli’s next with SRK?
After working with Hrithik Roshan [MUJHSE DOSTI KAROGE], Saif Ali Khan [HUM TUM] and FANAA [Aamir Khan], is Kunal Kohli working with Shah Rukh Khan next? That’s the buzz in the film industry. Kunal, who is turning producer with his next film [it’ll be presented by Yash Raj], sounded surprised when asked about SRK. “No… I haven’t signed SRK,” he pauses for a while, “Is that what people are saying?”
Reportedly, SRK and Kunal met recently and discussed the possibilities of working with each other. True? “Yes, we met at Ritesh’s [Sidhwani; producer of DON] party. But it’s wrong to assume that we are working together. I have just begun writing my new film. I don’t know whether the script I’m working on may excite me a few months later. The cast would follow only when I am convinced about the script,” he adds.
He continues in the same breath, “As of now, whom I cast, what I make and when I start filming are a mystery for me too,” he laughs.
Source: IndiaFM
Reportedly, SRK and Kunal met recently and discussed the possibilities of working with each other. True? “Yes, we met at Ritesh’s [Sidhwani; producer of DON] party. But it’s wrong to assume that we are working together. I have just begun writing my new film. I don’t know whether the script I’m working on may excite me a few months later. The cast would follow only when I am convinced about the script,” he adds.
He continues in the same breath, “As of now, whom I cast, what I make and when I start filming are a mystery for me too,” he laughs.
Source: IndiaFM
Friday, August 25, 2006
Shah Rukh is a hockey coach in 'Chak De'
Shah Rukh Khan finds himself playing a coach for a girls' hockey team in Shimit Amin's 'Chak De', filmed under the prestigious Yash Raj banner. The heroine of the film is Vidya Malvade (of 'Inteha' and 'Mashooka' fame). You may remember the two were paired earlier in a Santro ad.
Vidya has gone through an intensive two-month training at hockey camp, in order to be prepared for her role of a Sikh girl with strict parents. She wants to participate in an annual hockey tournament but her parents don't approve of it. It's somewhat similar to Parminder Nagra's role in 'Bend it like Beckham'.
Source: Bollyvista
Vidya has gone through an intensive two-month training at hockey camp, in order to be prepared for her role of a Sikh girl with strict parents. She wants to participate in an annual hockey tournament but her parents don't approve of it. It's somewhat similar to Parminder Nagra's role in 'Bend it like Beckham'.
Source: Bollyvista
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Mahesh Bhatt Supports SRK
Stars in the tinsel town can breathe easy as the Health Minister Ramadoss gave a clean chit to the Colas refuting claims by the Centre For Scientific Studies about high levels of pesticides. It may be a setback to the supporters of struggling politician Uma Bharti whose supporters lambasted actor Shahrukh Khan and tried to stop the screening of his latest blockbuster ‘Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna’.
Film maker and activist Mahesh Bhatt has strongly objected to the resistance shown towards the star. According to him, the repeated attempts by political parties to subdue actors like Aamir Khan and Shahrukh Khan was because they belonged to a minority group. Shahrukh hasn’t reacted so far to the campaign launched against him as to why only he was singled out as there were other stars who endorsed the Colas. It would be interesting to note if he does say something, maybe it will give the voyeuristic TV audience something to feast on.
IndiaGlitz
Film maker and activist Mahesh Bhatt has strongly objected to the resistance shown towards the star. According to him, the repeated attempts by political parties to subdue actors like Aamir Khan and Shahrukh Khan was because they belonged to a minority group. Shahrukh hasn’t reacted so far to the campaign launched against him as to why only he was singled out as there were other stars who endorsed the Colas. It would be interesting to note if he does say something, maybe it will give the voyeuristic TV audience something to feast on.
IndiaGlitz
KANK is the biggest first week spinner ever
For all the appreciation, criticism, good/bad word of mouth and some mixed bad of press support that Karan Johar's 'Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna' was getting since its August 11 release, the facts and figures have indeed painted a brilliantly lit bright picture for the film.
As per a reliable box office source, the film has gone on to net close to Rs. 28 crore in a matter of one week across cinemas in India. This clearly beats the 26.5 crore record created by 'Krrish' just 7 weeks back. Not just in India but even in overseas the film has already broken a number of records set over last few years by margin of crores.
The trade is now obviously enthusiastic with the figures being out and has all eyes set in two big releases coming up soon - 'Don- The Chase Begins Again' and 'Dhoom 2'.
Would the records tumble again? Come October/November and we should have all the answers out in open!
IndiaGlitz
As per a reliable box office source, the film has gone on to net close to Rs. 28 crore in a matter of one week across cinemas in India. This clearly beats the 26.5 crore record created by 'Krrish' just 7 weeks back. Not just in India but even in overseas the film has already broken a number of records set over last few years by margin of crores.
The trade is now obviously enthusiastic with the figures being out and has all eyes set in two big releases coming up soon - 'Don- The Chase Begins Again' and 'Dhoom 2'.
Would the records tumble again? Come October/November and we should have all the answers out in open!
IndiaGlitz
Saturday, August 19, 2006
Hollywood helps SRK to defy gravity
Stunt director Joe Jennings tells us about SRK's 'daredevilry', which includes jumping from a height of 15,000 feet.
After Hrithik Roshan's gravity-defying stunts in Krrish, it is now the turn of Shah Rukh Khan to take a turn in the air. Among other action sequences, King Khan will be jumping from a height of 15,000 feet. It is the first time that SRK is doing his own stunts.
"It might take very less print space but 15,000 ft is not a small height. It can be a nightmare for a person who is scared of heights," says director Farhan Akhtar.
And to make sure that everything goes by the script, Hollywood stunt expert Joe Jennings is calling the shots. Joe has already directed stunts for movies like Charlie's Angels, XXX, Wild California, Last Holiday and Air Force One.
"I know a lot about Shah Rukh now, but before this shoot, I wouldn't have known him from my dentist. Of course, I noticed the buzz around him on the sets, and I felt star struck despite having no clue about who he was. But SRK was very professional and gracious throughout the shoot," says Joe.
And was the shooting difficult given SRK's back problem? "There were apprehensions in Farhan's mind before making SRK do the stunt because of this, but the actor was more confident than the rest of us," Joe reveals.
What difference has he seen between a Bollywood and a Hollywood film? "The budget of a Hollywood movie is much bigger but the production and coordination here are handled just as professionally. I was really impressed by the people whom I met on this project," he says.
With an experience of over 12 years in filming aerial stunts, Joe is quite impressed with Farhan Akhtar. "Farhan is a pro. He was quite relaxed throughout the shoot and didn't want to control our work. Creatively, he told us clearly what he hoped to see, and then sent us off to do our work. I had the same sort of experience with director Mic Gee on Charlie's Angels. He was clear about what he wanted, and then just sent us off to do the job," he says.
Source: The Times
After Hrithik Roshan's gravity-defying stunts in Krrish, it is now the turn of Shah Rukh Khan to take a turn in the air. Among other action sequences, King Khan will be jumping from a height of 15,000 feet. It is the first time that SRK is doing his own stunts.
"It might take very less print space but 15,000 ft is not a small height. It can be a nightmare for a person who is scared of heights," says director Farhan Akhtar.
And to make sure that everything goes by the script, Hollywood stunt expert Joe Jennings is calling the shots. Joe has already directed stunts for movies like Charlie's Angels, XXX, Wild California, Last Holiday and Air Force One.
"I know a lot about Shah Rukh now, but before this shoot, I wouldn't have known him from my dentist. Of course, I noticed the buzz around him on the sets, and I felt star struck despite having no clue about who he was. But SRK was very professional and gracious throughout the shoot," says Joe.
And was the shooting difficult given SRK's back problem? "There were apprehensions in Farhan's mind before making SRK do the stunt because of this, but the actor was more confident than the rest of us," Joe reveals.
What difference has he seen between a Bollywood and a Hollywood film? "The budget of a Hollywood movie is much bigger but the production and coordination here are handled just as professionally. I was really impressed by the people whom I met on this project," he says.
With an experience of over 12 years in filming aerial stunts, Joe is quite impressed with Farhan Akhtar. "Farhan is a pro. He was quite relaxed throughout the shoot and didn't want to control our work. Creatively, he told us clearly what he hoped to see, and then sent us off to do our work. I had the same sort of experience with director Mic Gee on Charlie's Angels. He was clear about what he wanted, and then just sent us off to do the job," he says.
Source: The Times
Shah Rukh Khan was uncomfortable as straying husband in new movie
Bollywood leading man Shah Rukh Khan says he felt uncomfortable taking on the role of a husband who leaves his wife and child for another woman in his latest film.
Khan usually plays the reliable son or the devoted father and said it was difficult to play a man who turned away from his family in ``Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna,'' or ``Never Say Goodbye,'' which hit theaters last week.
He told Cine Blitz magazine that infidelity wasn't what ``a good man'' would do.
``I was embarrassed doing some scenes of this film, I felt shy doing them ... I am not a prude but I felt odd,'' said Khan, who has been married for 14 years and has two children.
The movie about troubled marriages, directed by well-known filmmaker Karan Johar, also stars Amitabh Bachchan and his son Abhishek, Rani Mukherjee and Preity Zinta.
Khan had some words of wisdom for those tempted by extramarital relationships: ``I think you have to work very hard after marriage to make it work. You can't go on believing that love will continue to take care of it.''
``Unreal expectations'' ruined relationships, he told the magazine.
Souce: The Hindu
Khan usually plays the reliable son or the devoted father and said it was difficult to play a man who turned away from his family in ``Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna,'' or ``Never Say Goodbye,'' which hit theaters last week.
He told Cine Blitz magazine that infidelity wasn't what ``a good man'' would do.
``I was embarrassed doing some scenes of this film, I felt shy doing them ... I am not a prude but I felt odd,'' said Khan, who has been married for 14 years and has two children.
The movie about troubled marriages, directed by well-known filmmaker Karan Johar, also stars Amitabh Bachchan and his son Abhishek, Rani Mukherjee and Preity Zinta.
Khan had some words of wisdom for those tempted by extramarital relationships: ``I think you have to work very hard after marriage to make it work. You can't go on believing that love will continue to take care of it.''
``Unreal expectations'' ruined relationships, he told the magazine.
Souce: The Hindu
Shah Rukh Khan was embarrassed doing role in KANK
Bollywood leading man Shah Rukh Khan says he felt uncomfortable taking on the role of a husband who leaves his wife and child for another woman in his latest film.
Khan usually plays the reliable son or the devoted father and said it was difficult to play a man who turned away from his family in ``Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna,'' which hit theaters last week.
He told Cine Blitz magazine that infidelity wasn't what ``a good man'' would do.
``I was embarrassed doing some scenes of this film, I felt shy doing them ... I am not a prude but I felt odd,'' said Khan, who has been married for 14 years and has two children.
The movie about troubled marriages, directed by well-known filmmaker Karan Johar, also stars Amitabh Bachchan and his son Abhishek, Rani Mukherjee and Preity Zinta.
Khan had some words of wisdom for those tempted by extramarital relationships: ``I think you have to work very hard after marriage to make it work. You can't go on believing that love will continue to take care of it.''
``Unreal expectations'' ruined relationships, he told the magazine.
Source: The Hindu
Khan usually plays the reliable son or the devoted father and said it was difficult to play a man who turned away from his family in ``Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna,'' which hit theaters last week.
He told Cine Blitz magazine that infidelity wasn't what ``a good man'' would do.
``I was embarrassed doing some scenes of this film, I felt shy doing them ... I am not a prude but I felt odd,'' said Khan, who has been married for 14 years and has two children.
The movie about troubled marriages, directed by well-known filmmaker Karan Johar, also stars Amitabh Bachchan and his son Abhishek, Rani Mukherjee and Preity Zinta.
Khan had some words of wisdom for those tempted by extramarital relationships: ``I think you have to work very hard after marriage to make it work. You can't go on believing that love will continue to take care of it.''
``Unreal expectations'' ruined relationships, he told the magazine.
Source: The Hindu
Friday, August 18, 2006
Is Shahrukh a split personality?
Playing doubles roles in movie like Duplicate and the new Don must be confusing the King Khan. Well, Shahrukh Khan definitely must be feeling a bit nauseated from all this because of some of the accusations from members of the film industry claiming that he is indeed a split personality.
According to SRK, at the very beginning of his career Mahesh Bhatt had called him a split personality. That is probably because he acts differently to different people. In fact, Bhatt is not the only one to notice this problem. Noted lyricist Javed Akthar too has found a hint of this in Shahrukh. Javed goes a step further however, by calling his Shahrukh Khan 1 and Shahrukh Khan 2. What is even funnier is that whenever Javed phones up Shahrukh’s place he asks his wife whether SRK 1 or SRK 2 is at home.
Karan Johar too seems to have caught on where Javed left off. He asks Gauri which SRK liked a particular film and Gauri gets into the act by saying SRK 2.
SRK agrees to these claims of having two different sides of himself but also says that he acts all the time except the time when he is with his children.
Source: IndiaFM
According to SRK, at the very beginning of his career Mahesh Bhatt had called him a split personality. That is probably because he acts differently to different people. In fact, Bhatt is not the only one to notice this problem. Noted lyricist Javed Akthar too has found a hint of this in Shahrukh. Javed goes a step further however, by calling his Shahrukh Khan 1 and Shahrukh Khan 2. What is even funnier is that whenever Javed phones up Shahrukh’s place he asks his wife whether SRK 1 or SRK 2 is at home.
Karan Johar too seems to have caught on where Javed left off. He asks Gauri which SRK liked a particular film and Gauri gets into the act by saying SRK 2.
SRK agrees to these claims of having two different sides of himself but also says that he acts all the time except the time when he is with his children.
Source: IndiaFM
KANK breaks box office record in US
'Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna' (Never Say Goodbye), aka KANK, a new Bollywood film shot in New York city, has set a box office record for a Hindi film in North America with a $1.4 million collection in the opening weekend.
The previous record for a Bollywood opening was $1 million for 2001's 'Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham', which like KANK was directed by Karan Johar, according to Indian American film journalist, Gitesh Pandya, who runs BoxOfficeGuru.com
With a $21,122 average collection from 64 locations KANK scored the best per-theatre average of any film in the Top 40, he said in his weekly box office report calling it as part of a trend of Indian films being set and shot in the South Asian diaspora.
The three-hour-plus extravaganza relating the tale of two soul mates, married to other people, who tackle the notion of true love, was given the widest release ever for a Bollywood film in North America opening on 95 screens in 64 theatre locations.
The previous record was 88 screens for 2004's 'Veer-Zaara', which also starred Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukherji, Preity Zinta, and Amitabh Bachchan, Pandya told South Asian Journalists Association (SAJA) Forum.
KANK was especially impressive at New Jersey's Regal Commerce Center in North Brunswick where the film grossed an astounding $61,470 over the weekend from two screens.
Typically, grossing $10,000 on a weekend is a major achievement. This 18-screen multiplex plays mostly Hollywood films, but also does phenomenal business from Bollywood films thanks to its location in the heart of one of America's largest South Asian communities.
Hopefully, KANK's strong numbers will encourage other American multiplexes in major markets to start programming Bollywood pictures, Pandya said.
It has been a big comeback year for the industry. Screen counts for 2006's other big Bollywood films were 61 for January's 'Rang De Basanti,' 72 for May's 'Fanaa,' and 59 for June's 'Krrish'. For the most part, the marketing push has been about the same for all of these big hits this year.
But freelancer Aseem Chhabra thinks it still makes no sense for him to pitch a KANK story to the mainstream press in the US as most editors will have no idea what this film is about.
KANK has opened only in the Indian market in the US. It's not just a question of box office. Bollywood films have not crossed over into mainstream or even art house theatres in the US, he told SAJA forum.
The Sony Classics experiment with 'Lagaan' that was released in a few art house theatres, including Film Forum in Manhattan, was just that - an experiment, with no significant results.
So far the only Indian/South Asian films that have succeeded in the US mainstream - more like art house- market are 'Bend it Like Beckham' that grossed over $32 million and 'Monsoon Wedding' ($13.9 million) and maybe 'Water', Chhabra said. He doubted if KANK will come anywhere near these films.
Asked why some Bollywood films get acronyms that catch fire, Chhabra said he thinks these are the creation of the new hip film-going generation in India.
'Did you know that Karan Johar is now referred to as KJo, like that woman who we call JLo here, and of course, everyone knows that Shah Rukh Khan is referred to as SRK. Amitabh is AB and Abhishek is AB Jr,' he said.
Everything is recycled in Bollywood- films, stories, titles, Chhabra said. Bollywood is currently remaking the classic films 'Umrao Jaan' and 'Sahib, Bibi Aur Ghulam'. There have been two 'Barsaats' since Raj Kapoor's original; one 'Barsaat Ki Raat', after the original Madhubala film.
Bollywood is also notorious for recycling successful Hollywood, and now even Asian films, said Chhabra suggesting the recent 'Zinda' was an exact copy of the award winning film 'Old Boy' from Korea.
Chhabra believes some non-desi Americans will watch Bollywood films like KANK. But the number of non-desi Americans watching Bollywood films is still very small -- especially if you look at Americans who go for other foreign language films -- European and most recently Asian films.
Source: Indo-Asian News Service
The previous record for a Bollywood opening was $1 million for 2001's 'Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham', which like KANK was directed by Karan Johar, according to Indian American film journalist, Gitesh Pandya, who runs BoxOfficeGuru.com
With a $21,122 average collection from 64 locations KANK scored the best per-theatre average of any film in the Top 40, he said in his weekly box office report calling it as part of a trend of Indian films being set and shot in the South Asian diaspora.
The three-hour-plus extravaganza relating the tale of two soul mates, married to other people, who tackle the notion of true love, was given the widest release ever for a Bollywood film in North America opening on 95 screens in 64 theatre locations.
The previous record was 88 screens for 2004's 'Veer-Zaara', which also starred Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukherji, Preity Zinta, and Amitabh Bachchan, Pandya told South Asian Journalists Association (SAJA) Forum.
KANK was especially impressive at New Jersey's Regal Commerce Center in North Brunswick where the film grossed an astounding $61,470 over the weekend from two screens.
Typically, grossing $10,000 on a weekend is a major achievement. This 18-screen multiplex plays mostly Hollywood films, but also does phenomenal business from Bollywood films thanks to its location in the heart of one of America's largest South Asian communities.
Hopefully, KANK's strong numbers will encourage other American multiplexes in major markets to start programming Bollywood pictures, Pandya said.
It has been a big comeback year for the industry. Screen counts for 2006's other big Bollywood films were 61 for January's 'Rang De Basanti,' 72 for May's 'Fanaa,' and 59 for June's 'Krrish'. For the most part, the marketing push has been about the same for all of these big hits this year.
But freelancer Aseem Chhabra thinks it still makes no sense for him to pitch a KANK story to the mainstream press in the US as most editors will have no idea what this film is about.
KANK has opened only in the Indian market in the US. It's not just a question of box office. Bollywood films have not crossed over into mainstream or even art house theatres in the US, he told SAJA forum.
The Sony Classics experiment with 'Lagaan' that was released in a few art house theatres, including Film Forum in Manhattan, was just that - an experiment, with no significant results.
So far the only Indian/South Asian films that have succeeded in the US mainstream - more like art house- market are 'Bend it Like Beckham' that grossed over $32 million and 'Monsoon Wedding' ($13.9 million) and maybe 'Water', Chhabra said. He doubted if KANK will come anywhere near these films.
Asked why some Bollywood films get acronyms that catch fire, Chhabra said he thinks these are the creation of the new hip film-going generation in India.
'Did you know that Karan Johar is now referred to as KJo, like that woman who we call JLo here, and of course, everyone knows that Shah Rukh Khan is referred to as SRK. Amitabh is AB and Abhishek is AB Jr,' he said.
Everything is recycled in Bollywood- films, stories, titles, Chhabra said. Bollywood is currently remaking the classic films 'Umrao Jaan' and 'Sahib, Bibi Aur Ghulam'. There have been two 'Barsaats' since Raj Kapoor's original; one 'Barsaat Ki Raat', after the original Madhubala film.
Bollywood is also notorious for recycling successful Hollywood, and now even Asian films, said Chhabra suggesting the recent 'Zinda' was an exact copy of the award winning film 'Old Boy' from Korea.
Chhabra believes some non-desi Americans will watch Bollywood films like KANK. But the number of non-desi Americans watching Bollywood films is still very small -- especially if you look at Americans who go for other foreign language films -- European and most recently Asian films.
Source: Indo-Asian News Service
Thursday, August 17, 2006
SRK danced to the tunes of a Marathi number!
By Manissha Despaande, Glamsham
Music directors Vishal-Shekhar are on cloud nine and this time it is not the musical success of the film that they are excited about but an ad film featuring ‘King Khan’, which has become the hot topic of discussion in the ad fraternity and also the film industry. The duo who have done the music for several jingles and ad films in the past, were in for a big surprise when choreographer friend, Farah Khan, recently requested them to compose a Marathi folk tune for an ad featuring Shahrukh Khan.
Recalls Vishal, “We have worked with Farah Khan on several ad films in the past but this time we were stunned because we had never recorded a Marathi song before. The ad was for a popular range of biscuits to be launched in Maharashtra and was to be essentially targeted at the Marathi-speaking crowd but having lived in Mumbai. We thought we knew the essence of Marathi culture. That’s why we chose the popular ‘lavani’ or tamasha music for the ad and gave it a very catchy tune.”
Needless to add, the ad agency which had given the lyrics to the duo were absolutely delighted with the results, so was Farah Khan and above all Shah Rukh, whose company, Red Chillies, has produced the ad.
The dance steps that Farah later chose for Shah Rukh were completely in sync with the beats of the music and the ad, which has just been released on all the Marathi channels, has become one to watch out for. Says Vishal, “The ad reflects a new beginning for the Maharashtrian community and the music and its looks go well with this concept.” So are they open to composing the music of a Marathi film in the future? “Why not, if the project interests us and is something above the ordinary? After all creativity, has no barriers,” smiles Vishal.
Music directors Vishal-Shekhar are on cloud nine and this time it is not the musical success of the film that they are excited about but an ad film featuring ‘King Khan’, which has become the hot topic of discussion in the ad fraternity and also the film industry. The duo who have done the music for several jingles and ad films in the past, were in for a big surprise when choreographer friend, Farah Khan, recently requested them to compose a Marathi folk tune for an ad featuring Shahrukh Khan.
Recalls Vishal, “We have worked with Farah Khan on several ad films in the past but this time we were stunned because we had never recorded a Marathi song before. The ad was for a popular range of biscuits to be launched in Maharashtra and was to be essentially targeted at the Marathi-speaking crowd but having lived in Mumbai. We thought we knew the essence of Marathi culture. That’s why we chose the popular ‘lavani’ or tamasha music for the ad and gave it a very catchy tune.”
Needless to add, the ad agency which had given the lyrics to the duo were absolutely delighted with the results, so was Farah Khan and above all Shah Rukh, whose company, Red Chillies, has produced the ad.
The dance steps that Farah later chose for Shah Rukh were completely in sync with the beats of the music and the ad, which has just been released on all the Marathi channels, has become one to watch out for. Says Vishal, “The ad reflects a new beginning for the Maharashtrian community and the music and its looks go well with this concept.” So are they open to composing the music of a Marathi film in the future? “Why not, if the project interests us and is something above the ordinary? After all creativity, has no barriers,” smiles Vishal.
SRK's son loves Preity more than Rani
Bollyvista
Wait till you hear this! Shah Rukh had organized a special screening for his kids, but didn't show Aryan the second half of the film because he knew Aryan would feel bad about the climax.
Aryan is very fond of Preity and he would not understand why his father ditches Preity aunty for Rani. Rani, are you feeling left out? Well, to gain something you have to lose something!
Wait till you hear this! Shah Rukh had organized a special screening for his kids, but didn't show Aryan the second half of the film because he knew Aryan would feel bad about the climax.
Aryan is very fond of Preity and he would not understand why his father ditches Preity aunty for Rani. Rani, are you feeling left out? Well, to gain something you have to lose something!
SRK wows the Maharashtrians!
By IndiaFM
Now this is something which has never been seen before. If you tune in to the Marathi TV channels, you just might see Shah Rukh Khan dancing to traditional Marathi lavani and tamasha music! It's for an ad for Sunfeast Marie biscuits which will be launched in Maharashtra. Other Bollywood biggies associated with this ad include Vishal-Shekhar who have composed the music and Farah Khan who has done the choreography. It has been produced by Shah Rukh Khan's company Red Chillies.
It was Farah who approached the musical duo to compose a Marathi folk tune, since the ad was targeted at the Marathi speaking crowd. They were quite excited since they have never done something like this before. They decided to use 'lavani' or 'tamasha' music to bring the quintessential Marathi flavor. Says Shekhar, "Even in the past, we have done a lot of work for Red Chillies. The funda of the ad was to forget the old Marie and start off with the new Sunfeast Marie. It was something very interesting because we have never done such work, before. It's a very cool lavani meets hip hop score, targeted at the Marathi speaking population."
The King Khan will be seen doing traditional dance steps in tune with the music. That's SRK for you, always up for trying something new! Well, they don't call him the King Khan for nothing, do they?
Now this is something which has never been seen before. If you tune in to the Marathi TV channels, you just might see Shah Rukh Khan dancing to traditional Marathi lavani and tamasha music! It's for an ad for Sunfeast Marie biscuits which will be launched in Maharashtra. Other Bollywood biggies associated with this ad include Vishal-Shekhar who have composed the music and Farah Khan who has done the choreography. It has been produced by Shah Rukh Khan's company Red Chillies.
It was Farah who approached the musical duo to compose a Marathi folk tune, since the ad was targeted at the Marathi speaking crowd. They were quite excited since they have never done something like this before. They decided to use 'lavani' or 'tamasha' music to bring the quintessential Marathi flavor. Says Shekhar, "Even in the past, we have done a lot of work for Red Chillies. The funda of the ad was to forget the old Marie and start off with the new Sunfeast Marie. It was something very interesting because we have never done such work, before. It's a very cool lavani meets hip hop score, targeted at the Marathi speaking population."
The King Khan will be seen doing traditional dance steps in tune with the music. That's SRK for you, always up for trying something new! Well, they don't call him the King Khan for nothing, do they?
SRK’s security guard kills fellow guard
By IndiaFM
A real life drama unfolded at Shah Rukh Khan’s residence, Mannat, late Monday night. One of the security guards, Hitendra Singh, fired at his colleague, Chandra Pratap Singh, who was part of the TOP security agency. Hitendra Singh fired with an imported firearm which took the life of his fellow guard. Hitendra Singh was arrested by the police. The weapon was also confiscated. The two guards were at the entrance of Mannat when the incident occurred. It is still unclear whether the firing was accidental or not.
A real life drama unfolded at Shah Rukh Khan’s residence, Mannat, late Monday night. One of the security guards, Hitendra Singh, fired at his colleague, Chandra Pratap Singh, who was part of the TOP security agency. Hitendra Singh fired with an imported firearm which took the life of his fellow guard. Hitendra Singh was arrested by the police. The weapon was also confiscated. The two guards were at the entrance of Mannat when the incident occurred. It is still unclear whether the firing was accidental or not.
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
SRK's fondness for beginning and end of his film
Joginder Tuteja, IndiaGlitz
As 'Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna' has released and is busy minting money all over, all eyes are now set on Shahrukh Khan's next 'Don - The Chase Begins Again' where he goes for a complete makeover from being a cynical Dev Saran to the suave'n'stylish 'Don'!
When asked about his upcoming film he said, "Don of 2006 is 'similar', though not 'same' as Don from the past. The subject remains the same but Farhan has given the film a completely different treatment." On being questioned on what was so different about the new 'Don', he said with a twinkle in his eye, "The best part of the film is its beginning and its end. It is going to completely take you by surprise, believe me! The rest of the film has great moments too but it is the beginning and the end that makes it's special."
Well, we are certainly waiting for the D-day, October 20, to catch the film King Khan!
As 'Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna' has released and is busy minting money all over, all eyes are now set on Shahrukh Khan's next 'Don - The Chase Begins Again' where he goes for a complete makeover from being a cynical Dev Saran to the suave'n'stylish 'Don'!
When asked about his upcoming film he said, "Don of 2006 is 'similar', though not 'same' as Don from the past. The subject remains the same but Farhan has given the film a completely different treatment." On being questioned on what was so different about the new 'Don', he said with a twinkle in his eye, "The best part of the film is its beginning and its end. It is going to completely take you by surprise, believe me! The rest of the film has great moments too but it is the beginning and the end that makes it's special."
Well, we are certainly waiting for the D-day, October 20, to catch the film King Khan!
SRK – Karan rift: Karan talks
By Taran Adarsh, IndiaFM
Not all’s well between Shah Rukh Khan and Karan Johar. At least that’s what the gossip mongers in Mumbai would want us to believe. The [loose] talk doing the rounds of the industry is that SRK and Karan have had a major tiff. Reason: Trouble erupted soon after SRK watched KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA and was upset with Karan for sidelining him in the film. With Abhishek getting interesting sequences and Rani walking away with a meatier role, SRK, the gossip mills swore, was extremely upset with Karan for giving him a raw deal in the film.
Karan laughs at the rumors when I broached the topic last evening. “Shah Rukh is very happy with his role and also with the film in totality. He’s not upset positively,” the film-maker clarifies, “In fact, he’s happy that he’s got a chance to play a role that’s not stereotype. And also a role that he hadn’t essayed earlier. Not just SRK, each member of the cast is more than proud of K.A.N.K.”
But how did these rumors originate in the first place? “A section of the trade is indulging in loose talk. Instead of encouraging a film from the fraternity, they are trying to pull it down by sending rubbish text-messages. I seriously feel I’ve become a veteran listening to all the muck being spread about my films. The industry wrote off KUCH KUCH HOTA HAI and KABHI KHUSHI KABHIE GHAM in their initial weeks. It doesn’t bother me anymore,” Karan hits back.
KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA too has had its share of back-biting. “The business of the film should silence the detractors. See, KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA is not the usual Karan Johar film. It’s raked up a lot of debates and discussions. I knew it all along that it would take time for the film to settle down. It’s an unusual film that comes as a jolt when you watch it the first time. It’s a reflection of reality, it’s not about unreal worlds. And a film like this grows with time,” he smiles.
Not all’s well between Shah Rukh Khan and Karan Johar. At least that’s what the gossip mongers in Mumbai would want us to believe. The [loose] talk doing the rounds of the industry is that SRK and Karan have had a major tiff. Reason: Trouble erupted soon after SRK watched KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA and was upset with Karan for sidelining him in the film. With Abhishek getting interesting sequences and Rani walking away with a meatier role, SRK, the gossip mills swore, was extremely upset with Karan for giving him a raw deal in the film.
Karan laughs at the rumors when I broached the topic last evening. “Shah Rukh is very happy with his role and also with the film in totality. He’s not upset positively,” the film-maker clarifies, “In fact, he’s happy that he’s got a chance to play a role that’s not stereotype. And also a role that he hadn’t essayed earlier. Not just SRK, each member of the cast is more than proud of K.A.N.K.”
But how did these rumors originate in the first place? “A section of the trade is indulging in loose talk. Instead of encouraging a film from the fraternity, they are trying to pull it down by sending rubbish text-messages. I seriously feel I’ve become a veteran listening to all the muck being spread about my films. The industry wrote off KUCH KUCH HOTA HAI and KABHI KHUSHI KABHIE GHAM in their initial weeks. It doesn’t bother me anymore,” Karan hits back.
KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA too has had its share of back-biting. “The business of the film should silence the detractors. See, KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA is not the usual Karan Johar film. It’s raked up a lot of debates and discussions. I knew it all along that it would take time for the film to settle down. It’s an unusual film that comes as a jolt when you watch it the first time. It’s a reflection of reality, it’s not about unreal worlds. And a film like this grows with time,” he smiles.
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
Abhishek takes away Shah Rukh's film
Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna has had a mixed reaction from the trade
While the new age people from film industry has been talking about the richness of the making and the thought behind the film, the old timers are shocked to see the unfamiliar ending given in the film stating that this was the big reason why the film has failed to touch hearts in the Indian belt. The film has some outstanding collections from the Overseas territory as Karan tells us. But in India, the film has taken a bit of a beating. "It is a great thought, but because of the subject smaller centres in India haven't liked the film so much. The film will make loads of money from bigger cities and overseas," says Vashu Bhagnani who feels that Abhishek Bachchan has emerged a star from the film.
Does that mean that the film did not benefit the man for whom it was made for – Shah Rukh Khan?
Monday, August 14, 2006
Would there be fire due to SRK's smoke?
Joginder Tuteja, IndiaGlitzRemember the hoopla that was caused a few months back when the government proposed a ban on depiction of onscreen smoking? While Bollywood was more or less unanimous in their objection against the ban, there was always uncertainty around the actual timeline when the ban would come into action.
Now one fears if the makers of Shahrukh Khan's next release 'Don - The Chase Begins Again' would be required to answer some questions due to depiction of 'smoke' in their latest promo of the film. The 1 minute song promo of 'Main Hoon Don' ends with a cloud of smoke around SRK's mouth as he looks at the screen. While the camera cleverly avoids showing any cigarette stick hanging in the frame, the cloud of smoke remains on screen for a good 5-7 seconds hence adding to the style appeal of SRK.
One wonders if this smoke would give rise to some more fire in the coming days. Wait and watch as the film's release is still a good 2 months away!
SRK not a King Khan anymore
SantabantaThe Hindi film industry has entered the second half of the year feeling triumphant as it has managed to get the audiences back into the halls without much extra effort.
But the audiences are still unpredictable. Critically acclaimed multi-starrer "Omkara" is holding well only in Mumbai and Delhi while Sanjay Dutt-starrer "Anthony Kaun Hai" is hovering between average and flop categories.
Going by early reports, this year's most-awaited mega-starrer "Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna" by the industry's blue-eyed boy Karan Johar has not had as spectacular an opening as was hoped.
The box-office collections of the film are likely to pick up after the five-day extended weekend but the film's characterisation and plot have not enthused critics much.
The film stars Shah Rukh Khan who claims to be the "icon of the industry". In the teaser of his new movie "Don", Shah Rukh says: "I am the king".
But box-office returns of his solo films are a clear indicator that even he cannot guarantee box-office success the way Amitabh Bachchan could in the good old days.
Though the audience has changed, a large movie-going population is still very much into hero-worshiping enabling some south Indian actors to command more money than Bollywood's "A-list" stars.
Scepticism tends to creep in when one hears Shah Rukh say: "This is King Khan. I'm the Ronaldinho (ace Brazilian footballer) of acting. I'll be there for another five to six years, then maybe you can think of some other actor."
Elsewhere, he can be heard saying: "No newcomer is around to oust me. It's terrific. I'm respected, recognised. Many magazines call me the icon of the country. The fact is I'm blessed, it has been a charmed life."
He has ruled the roost coming a long way from days of television series "Fauji" in 1988 to scale spectacular heights after "Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge".
But in today's scenario Shah Rukh needs to be accompanied by an ensemble cast including Amitabh, Rani Mukerji, Preity Zinta and Abhishek Bachchan as in "Kabhi Alvida..."
It has been a while since his solo-hero films made cash registers ring. In fact, a film starring a herd of stars cannot ensure a box-office success either.
Ram Gopal Varma's horror flick "Darna Zaroori Hai" could not stay on the marquees in spite of the presence of almost every star of the industry - Amitabh, Anil Kapoor, Riteish Deshmukh, Mallika Sherawat and Bipasha Basu.
Most of the multi-starrers in the past have witnessed great success. But when it comes to guarantee, there is none. Stars will only help, if the film is supported by a strong script and decent execution along with impressive performances.
Trade watcher Deepa Gehlot says: "Now that the audience is in a mellow, welcoming mood, this is the time to welcome new talent with fresh ideas into the industry."
Unfortunately, a lot of big-money corporate houses, who are getting into film production, are only looking at huge projects with stars.
So, it is left to a few like Pritish Nandy Communications, iDream Productions, Crossover Films and Metalight Productions, plus some enterprising individuals, to fund smaller films, apart from the old trouper National Film Development Corporation (NFDC).
"It is unfortunate, again, that a lot of small budget offbeat films turn out to be unwatchable. There is still a crisis of content, which, in this current self-congratulatory phase, the industry is not addressing," adds Gehlot.
One hears of a little blip of change here and there. Subhash Ghai has set up a script workshop and is looking at new ideas; iDream already has a script bank; UTV is getting scripts developed; NFDC is planning something on the lines of a script bank too.
Everyone complains of the shortage of good writers but no one seems to do anything about it.
"Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna" with its enviable stellar star-cast is first of this year's multi-starrer big-budget productions to hit the marquees.
Johar has spent Rs.500 million on the film and brought together Shah Rukh, Amitabh, Rani, Preity, Abhishek and Arjun Rampal.
Coming up soon will be "Eklavya" (Amitabh, Saif Ali Khan, Vidya Balan), "Umrao Jaan" (Aishwarya, Abhishek, Shabana Azmi, Suniel Shetty), "Salaam-e-Ishq" (Salman Khan, Priyanka Chopra, Govinda, Anil Kapoor, Juhi Chawla, John Abraham, Vidya), "Jaan-e-Man" (Akshay Kumar, Salman, Preity, Anupam Kher), "Dhoom 2" (Abhishek, Bipasha, Aishwarya, Hrithik) and "Lage Raho Munnabhai" (Sanjay Dutt, Arshad Warsi, Vidya, Boman Irani)
Stars and script apart, getting an apt release date has become another important criterion of box-office success.
A favourable release date for Johar's "Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna" is expected to play a key role in deciding the fate of the movie. The film will benefit from the two national holidays in the week ahead.
Similarly, the release of "Omkara" was planned keeping in mind that it must not clash with "Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna" while "Golmaal" producers made sure "Krrish" was not released the same week.
In fact, gone are the days when certain months were considered taboo for releasing films. News reports say that in September, UTV will release "Khosla Ka Ghosla", Ashtavinyak will unveil "Dil Diya Hai" and Vidhu Vinod Chopra will return with his "Lage Raho Munnabhai".
But good months are packed as always. So Oct 20 will see the release of J.P. Dutta's "Umrao Jaan", Farhan Akhtar's "Don" and Sajid Nadiadwala's "Jaan-E-Mann", reports say.
Sunday, August 13, 2006
It's 'Main Hoon Don' again
Joginder Tuteja IndiaglitzGet set for a rocking action again as fireworks happen all around this Diwali!
After a rocking beginning to the promotion of 'Don' with a 20 second teaser, Farhan Akhtar has now unleashed a one minute song promo of the title 'Main Hoon Don'. And no, it is not a remix version of popular 'Arrey Deewani Mujhe Pehchano' but a brand new track by Shankar Ehsan Loy with the only similarity being the song's conclusion with the words 'Main Hoon Don'.
A swanky looking song picturised on an elaborate set with a dark yet flashy look throughout', 'Main Hoon Don' is an extravagantly shot number with Shahrukh Khan coming across as a style guru! His gyrates along with Isha Kopikar while partying around with a few men (who appear to be baddies) as Priyanka Chopra watches the proceedings.
A song with a retro feel to it, it mixes the spirit of the original Don with a dash of new age lounge effect to come across as a highly intriguing track!
KANK off to a flier
Joginder Tuteja, IndiaGlitzYes, it has done it! At least as far as the initial reports indicate!
The way KANK was all over the town for last one month, it was becoming clearer with every passing day that the film would be unstoppable. The movie has indeed taken a great start at the box office and there are all indications that it would turn out to be the biggest first week grosser ever while surpassing the record of 'Krrish'. A 6 day long weekend at many places in the country has only helped the cause since the advance bookings are phenomenal.
The film may have opened to mixed reviews from critics but that doesn't seem to be deterrent at all for the audience who are sure to check out the film at least once due to coming together of some of the best in the business.
As the opening week records set by numerous films this year seem to be en route to being broken, the question on everyone’s lips is "Whether KANK would surpass the 60 crore plus [and still growing] collections of 'Krrish'? Three more weeks and we should have the picture clear!
Does Shah Rukh ham in 'Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna'?
By N. K. Deoshi, ApunkaChoiceSince it was a Shah Rukh Khan film coming after a gap of more than a year, I was hoping to see an improvised, subtler actor in the superstar.
The superstar in SRK has always dominated the actor in him. The sugar-coated, mushy and over-dramatic roles he has played in many films have, sort of, narrowed the superstar’s acting range and given him a fixed screen image into which he seems to slip with utmost ease. No doubt, people love this image – that is why we have seen films like Kuch Kuch Hota Hai , Kal Ho Na Ho and Veer Zaara becoming hits.
As an actor, SRK admittedly showed flashes of brilliance in Swades and Paheli . He slipped out of his typical screen persona in both the films, but the box-office verdict of these two films has perhaps prevented such further departures for the superstar.
So we see him replay himself in Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna . We see the same lofty brow, the same trembling of lips, the same heavy breathing, lump in the throat, the same twitching of facial muscles and the same overblown theatrics. Dev in KANK might have been called Raj or Rahul, the name doesn’t matter. The character enacted behind the name is fundamentally the same.
The eccentric hilarity of Dev in KANK apart, the emotional turbulences and dilemmas of the character have been brought out in no refreshing way by SRK.
SRK, the reigning superstar of Bollywood, throws no surprise in KANK. He does what he has been doing – play the over-acted tragedy king yet again.
'Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna' – the biggest blockbuster of the year?
ApunkaChoiceThe tremendous buzz around Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna , coupled with historic advance booking reports from all over the country, and even overseas, suggest that the Karan Johar magnum opus may well turn out to be the biggest blockbuster of the year.
Even before the film's worldwide release on Friday, there was a huge buzz around the film, which was evident from the historic advance booking for the film all over India as well as overseas.
Factors like the huge starcast of the film, its unique storyline, catchy promos and its songs like 'Mitwa', 'Where's the party tonight' and 'Rock and Roll Soniye' created a huge buzz around the film, resulting in unprecedented rush in advance bookings for the film.
Featuring an ensemble cast of Amitabh Bachchan , Shah Rukh Khan , Abhishek Bachchan , Preity Zinta and Rani Mukherjee , 'Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna' has also evoked a lot of curiosity due to its novel storyline.
Adding to the buzz for the film are its songs like 'Where's the Party tonight' picturised on Abhishek and Preity in the film, as also the ''Rock and Roll Sonie'' song picturised on Amitabh, Abhishek and Preity, which are already a huge rage among all sections, specially the youth and the children.
No wonder, theatres across the country reported tremendous rush in advance bookings for the film.
Both multiplexes and single screen theatre witnessed phenomenal advance booking.
Trade sources said the advance bookings of the film were full as soon as it opened on Monday.
Infact, almost all the cinema halls in Delhi and Mumbai, both the single screen as well as multiplexes have tickets for an entire week booked in advance considering that this week has two holidays on August 15 and 16 on account of Independence day and Janamashtmi.
Though the advance booking for multiplexes starts from Wednesday or Thursday, booking for 'Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna' at many multiplexes in Delhi opened on Sunday.
The phenomenal rush in advance bookings, coupled with the fact that the film is being released with nearly 1000 prints, makes it a distinct possibility that the film may turn out to be a bigger blockbuster that the recently-released Krrish , which has already netted a gross of over Rs 150 crore in just five weeks of its run.
Saturday, August 12, 2006
'KANK is not about Sexuality'
Santa BantaBollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan says that his character in the forthcoming film ''Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna''(KANK) is an absolute turnaround from the utopian lover roles he has portrayed so far.
Talking to reporters, Shah Rukh said unlike the 'Raj' and 'Rahul' characters he has played in blockbusters like ''DDLJ'' and ''Kuch Kuch Hota Hai'' respectively, his character ''Dev'' in KANK is cynical and scarce.
But due to Director Karan Johar's conviction, the character will be likeable, Shah Rukh said.
''I would not have done this film, if somebody else had been the director,'' he added.
Speaking about KANK, Shah Rukh said the movie has a bold theme.
''It is bold not in the sense of sensuality, sexuality or the language used. It deals with the subject of vulnerable relationships with dignity. The focus is on what happens when relationships go haywire,'' he added.
Speaking abouthis new venture -a VFX studio started by his production house 'Red Chillis', Shah Rukh said the effort is to bring quality into visual effects used in films. '' We have got a couple of visualisers and operators who are experts in this field and getting good business.
The company will take up work for outside producers as well. The special effects of my film Don directed and produced by Farhan Akhtar is done here. The company will also do the special effects of my home production ''Om Shanti Om'', he informed.
When asked about his co-star Abhishek Bachchan in KANK, Shah Rukh said, ''Abhishek is a well-behaved boy. Unfortunately, we do not have many scenes in the film. He is hard working and very funny.
We had good time shooting for the film in New York''.
To a question on who has been his best co-star so far, Shah Rukh replied, ''myself in the film Duplicate''.
KANK fails to live up to hopes!
Karan Johar's much-awaited "Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna" (KANK), revolving around modern day relationships, opened Friday to a rather lukewarm response.The multi-starrer, which has all the ingredients of a Johar film, has failed to live up to the lofty pre-release hype. KANK stars Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji, Preity Zinta and Abhishek Bachchan.
"It has got a lukewarm response at single screens and it is getting mixed reviews," said an informed source on condition of anonymity.
However, Saurabh Varma, vice president of PVR Cinemas, feels it is too early to give a verdict.
"Unlike other films, 'Kabhi Alvida...' has the advantage of a five-day extended weekend. It has got a phenomenal opening and the seats are booked till Wednesday. I think the ultimate verdict will come only after Wednesday," said Varma told.
However, trade pundits feel Johar splurged money on the film and that the film's box office collection might not be able to match its cost.
"Investment in the film is very high. It cost over Rs.500 million and therefore, a lot is at stake for Karan Johar," added the source.
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna Movie Review
By IndiaFM
The wait has finally ended!
KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA has generated tremendous heat within and outside the film industry. It's not the star cast alone that has resulted in unparalleled, unmatched and unprecedented craze for the film. It's also the person seated on the director's chair that makes KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA special. Very special.
With KUCH KUCH HOTA HAI and KABHI KHUSHI KABHIE GHAM, his directorial accomplishments, Karan Johar has set such high standards that an all-important question crosses your mind as you walk into the screening: Will Karan surpass his own achievements with KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA?
KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA is also an acid test for Karan for yet another reason. It's the first time that Karan has changed tracks. Agreed, the supremely talented director has tackled romance and relationships in the past, but KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA goes a step further. It takes a bold look at relationships and makes an equally bold statement on the institution of marriage.
Just don't expect KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA to be a typical candyfloss entertainer. Or an archetypal fare that Bollywood is known for. In those 3.06 hours/22 reels, Karan packs in some solid stuff. And the conclusion to the story is bound to hit the orthodox elements hard. A film like KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA is sure to have its share of advocates and adversaries no doubt, but it's a film that has the courage to say what it believes in.
There are bound to be comparisons with films of similar genre. But let's put certain myths to rest at the very outset. The story revolves around two couples, but it's not CLOSER [Julia Roberts, Jude Law, Natalie Portman, Clive Owen], it's not SILSILA either. The speculation should end there. Karan's take on relationships is fresh, bold and innovative. It takes you by surprise. It shocks you as well. And it's also trend-setting.
Frankly, a film like KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA is akin to a big gamble. The subject matter has to be treated cautiously and delicately, or else it can boomerang badly. It might even hurt the sensibilities if entrusted in wrong hands. But Karan's skilled directorial abilities take the film to a different level altogether. The film charters a novel path as it progresses and gets bolder gradually.
In a nutshell, KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA bears the unmistakable stamp of a genius -- Karan Johar. The master storyteller only polishes his skills further, proving yet again that he's a forward-thinker and also, a progressive storyteller.
KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA narrates the story of two families -- Sarans and Talwars -- both not connected to one another. But circumstances bring them together. Dev Saran [Shah Rukh Khan] has an uneasy and troubled relationship with his wife Rhea [Preity Zinta] and son Arjun [child artist Ahsaas]. He resents his wife's growing success and in the process, ends up turning all his anger towards his loved ones.
Maya Talwar's [Rani Mukherji] relationship with her husband Rishi [Abhishek Bachchan] is layered with a lot of self-doubt and question. She is unable to whip up enough passion for Rishi and is disappointed that her love for him does not match her own expectations of what it ought to be. This dilemma pulls her further apart from him, thereby causing a strain on their marital life.
One fine day, Dev and Maya's path cross each other…
KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA starts like a nice romantic drama, with Abhishek getting married to his childhood sweetheart and SRK talking to his wife about the $ 5 million deal after he has won a game of soccer. But minutes later, the film does a 180-degree turn and establishes the friction between the two couples.
The tension between the couples surfaces gradually, but reaches the crescendo 20 minutes before intermission. The spat between SRK and Preity on one hand [Preity: “I wear the pants in this house”], followed by the heated argument between Abhishek and Rani [Abhishek: “You can't even bear a child”] is amongst the most remarkable portions in the film. These sequences hit you like a ton of bricks!
It's not that the first half is laced with tense-filled moments. In fact, the first hour-and-a-half has light portions in abundance. Amitabh Bachchan's philandering lifestyle provides ample moments of laughter and of course, eye-candy, what with some gorgeous firang babes jumping out of the closet.
In the post-interval portions, infidelities occur, betrayals are discovered and the couples' worlds go upside down. The sequence at the dinner [Sr. Bachchan hosts a sit-down dinner on Kiron Kher's birthday], when SRK expresses his feelings, or when SRK opens up to Preity and Rani to Abhishek about the affairs are master strokes from the writing and execution point of view. Note another scene: SRK waiting with a bouquet of roses for Rani and by a sheer coincidence, Preity walks in at that time at the signal crossing. This sequence [it depends on treatment alone] deserves distinction marks.
The end is powerful, but disturbing. Disturbing for those who believe in the age-old traditions. The film moves about in a serpentine fashion. Just when you thought that the couples have decided to go separate ways, there's another twist in the tale and yet another, in the end.
Karan Johar takes colossal strides as a storyteller. Films like K.K.H.H. and K.K.K.G. were the tip of the iceberg. Karan's take on relationships and marriages is refreshingly different because there's tremendous identification with the characters. You see it happening all around you these days. Technically too, this is Karan's finest work to date; he balances style and substance beautifully.
KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA is not a date film and the writers [Karan Johar, Shibani Bathija] spell it out at the very outset. The screenplay balances the two extremes -- light moments and dollops of emotions -- with amazing ease. The relationship between the couples or even those between the parent and child [the Bachchans] is delicately handled. If there are moments that move you to tears, there are ample moments that bring a smile to your face as well. Another noteworthy aspect is its forthright dialogues [Niranjan Iyengar]. The lines sound straight of life and there also exist a host of interesting observations. Yes, the film is talky, but in a smart way. You never feel that the characters are talking to hear their own words or to fill up screen time.
Anil Mehta's cinematography is awesome. The film has been filmed in New York and the lensman captures the various seasons and colors with gusto. The outcome is easily comparable to the best in Hollywood. Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy's music is melodious. 'Mitwa', 'Rock N Roll Soniye' and 'Where's The Party Tonite' appeal also due to the vibrant choreography [Farah Khan]. The styling and the production values are topnotch. Editing could be tighter. A bit of trimming, in the first half mainly, would only sparkle the film further.
In KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA, the actors get a chance to shine and no one shines brighter than Shah Rukh Khan. Let's just state one thing here: This is SRK's finest work after D.D.L.J. His sequences with Preity specifically, when the couple has their spats, or in the climax, when he just stares at Rani from inside the train, proves that he's undoubtedly the best in the business. The ferocity with which he delivers his lines and the restless energy he imparts to his character electrifies every scene that he's in.
Rani is remarkable yet again. In fact, if you consider BLACK to be her most memorable performance so far, then watch her in KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA. This surpasses her work in BLACK or VEER-ZAARA and PAHELI. Her makeup as well as her overall appearance is tremendous. She's never looked as good before!
It would be unfair to describe either Abhishek Bachchan or Preity Zinta's performances as 'lesser'. Abhishek is brilliant, especially when he gets serious towards the end. His penultimate sequence, when he gives a golden advice to Rani, is outstanding. Preity not only looks gorgeous, but the dedication to her role shows at vital points. Her penultimate scene with Rani, when she confronts her at the marriage reception, is fabulous.
Amitabh Bachchan is in superb form. The naughty streak that he displays soon disappears in the second half, when he realizes that something is amiss. In fact, his expressions at the dinner first and also in the hospital only reiterates the fact that he's an icon. Kirron Kher excels in a brief but significant role. Arjun Rampal looks perfect for the part. Kajol and John Abraham [both appear in songs] add to the glamour quotient. Child artist Ahsaas looks cute and acts well.
On the whole, KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA is an outstanding film from the writing, performance and execution point of view. It has style, substance, it takes challenges and doesn't follow formulas -- and that is its biggest strength. At the box-office, the film will embark on a hurricane-like start, establishing new records in days to come. The first weekend will be superb, while the weekdays [15th and 16th August are also holidays] will result in a record-shattering first week billing. With no opposition in sight for the next few weeks, KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA will have a dream run at the box-office. Its business in Overseas will also be remarkable. Has the potential to prove the biggest money spinner in this territory.
KANK Opens to Historic Advance Booking
Faridoon Shahryar, IndiaGlitzKaranJohar’s Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna is expectedly creating a buzz as the countdown is heading towards the Big Release this Friday. With over 900 prints being flooded in the market and publicity blitzkrieg hitting the subconscious of masses, it goes without saying KANK had to have a huge opening. “The advance booking in all our multiplex theatres as well as single screen theatres has been wonderful,” says Girish S Wankhede, Manager, Public Relations, Cinemax, Mumbai.
The advance booking for multiplexes starts from Wednesday, but an exception was made in the case of ‘KANK’ as the advance started from Sunday itself. At a prominent single screen theatre Gaeity Cinema, all shows are houseful till the next Tuesday (15th August) repeating the magical opening of ‘Mangal Pandey’ last year around the same time. So, will KANK beat the stupendous show of ‘Krrish’? “The response is overwhelming. I think it is possible that KANK may beat Krrish as the star cast is powerful.”
Trade is jubilant with the ecstatic response received by KANK. It’s been the year that Hindi Cinema will remember for a long time as so many films have hit the Bull’s Eye at the Box Office breaking one record after another. Let’s wait and watch and see what Magic KANK manages as it unleashes this Friday.
KANK - a modern day atypical romance
Moving away from candyfloss romances and happily ever after tales, Karan Johar returns to the marquee this Friday after almost five years with his hugely anticipated multistarrer "Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna" that takes off from where most films begin.What after the couple walks into the sunset? That is what Johar attempts to explore here with his take on modern day relationships.
Johar is definitely treading an unknown path with the film, which has all his favourite stars -- Amitabh and Abhishek Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukherjee and Preity Zinta. The risks are high, but trade pundits say Johar understands the psyche of his viewers and his rather unusual film won't disappoint them.
This is his third directorial venture after "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai" and "Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham", both of which were big hits. He has tried to do something different in this one, which is extensively shot in New York.
The film focuses mainly on Shah Rukh and Rani, who are married to different people and are convinced that they are happy - until they meet each other.
The story goes something like this:
Dev (Shah Rukh) is a professional footballer, but becomes handicapped in an unfortunate incident. But his wife Rhea's (Preity Zinta) career is on an upswing. They have a son, Arjun. Dev's physical disability and failed career start to affect his married life.
He doesn't get any help from his mother Kamaljeet Saran (Kiron Kher), who loves her son but usually supports Rhea when it comes to giving advice or voicing her opinion.
Then there is Maya (Rani), a teacher married to her closest friend Rishi (Abhishek Bachchan), who works as a PR consultant. They pretend to be a happily married couple.
Rishi's father Sam (Amitabh Bachchan) is a fun-loving man and his life revolves around his son and daughter-in-law.
It is in this hustle-bustle of daily domestic life that Dev and Maya bump into each other. After a few meetings, they become conscious of a strong connect. They continue to meet and eventually fall in love, inevitably causing complications in their married lives.
Their relationship makes them look at their respective marriages with a new perspective. How they deal with this new development forms the crux of "Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna".
The film has an atypical love story, good music and bankable stars - is Johar going to strike gold again?
Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna Movie Preview
Today, times have changed and people are constantly on the run, juggling careers, living out of suitcase, trying to strike a balance between their so called 'personal life' and 'professional lives', leaving people with a sense of void and resentment. KANK (KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA) is one such film that attempts to throw light on the current societal scenario, the contemporary lifestyle rampant in today's fast paced lives."Human relationships have always perplexed me. These seemingly simple bonds between people can cause so much upheaval that lives change drastically with a minute change in these equations", quotes Karan Johar.
KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA delves deep into relationships and complexities of life. A layman can easily identify with the films intense and poignant story line, which is arguably the main USP of the film, besides the colossal star cast and the Dharma Productions Banner.
It is one of the most eagerly awaited films of 2006. There's Amitabh Bachchan, Shahrukh Khan, Rani Mukherjee, Abhishek Bachchan, Preity Zinta, Kiron Kher and Arjun Rampal along with 2 surprise elements namely Kajol and Ritesh Deshmukh. The rocking Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy trio has composed the music while Javed Akhtar has penned the lyrics. The best part about the film is, it gives us an insight into the complexities of human bonds and inspires us to resolve our own personal conflicts in some way.
A brief introduction of all the characters.
Shahrukh Khan (Dev Saran) plays a sensitive and cynical character who has a rather uneasy relationship with the world owing to an unfortunate mishap that turns his dreams upside down. He is unable to come to terms with the unfairness of life and resents his wife, Rhea's growing success and in the process ends up hating himself for feeling that way. Maya enters his life with a story of her own and together they take on a journey to heal each other...
Preity Zinta (Rhea Saran) is a confident modern girl with a strong sense of right and wrong. Her independence means the most to her. There are moments when she realizes that she is not playing the traditional role of a wife or a mother owing to her busy career but she refuses to feel guilty about it and strongly believes in her right to pursue her career as much as a man...
Abhishek Bachchan (Rishi Talwar) is an upcoming public relations professional. A sophisticated and stylish guy who has inherited his father's (Amitabh as Sam Talwar) fun-loving nature and his sense of humour. He is patient and loving to Maya but is unable to comprehend her complexity especially when it rears its ugly head in the most intimate moments of their personal relationship...
Rani Mukherjee (Maya Talwar) plays a compulsive cleanliness freak who compensates for her inability to have children by teaching in a nursery. Her relationship with her husband Rishi is layered with a lot of self-doubt and questions. However, while she is ready to discuss and analyze everything small or big, she fights this area of her life with remarkable silence that strains her marital life. To add to this complication, she encounters Dev in whom she finds all the ingredients to fire the passion she lacks in her marriage...
Kiron Kher (Kamaljeet Saran) a self-reliant woman with a combination of strong traditional values and a progressive mind-set. An example of a parent who has moulded herself to the changing world without losing her roots. While she is a silent spectator to her son, Dev and daughter-in-law Rhea's changing equations, she does not hesitate to voice her opinion as an elder when required. She is fearless in her decisions and takes a rather progressive stand for her daughter-in-law when the situation worsens...
Amitabh Bachchan (Samarjit Singh Talwar) a.k.a Sam is a flamboyant and fun loving man who believes in living his life to the fullest. His life revolves around the happiness of his son, Rishi and daughter-in-law, Maya. And despite indulging in all sensual pleasures, Sam does not lose focus on the ground realities of life and beneath his colorful exterior there lies a wise and sensitive parent who doles out brutal but practical solutions to his family.
Karan Johar has a sense of grandiose, which is palpable in all his films like KUCH KUCH HOTA HAI, KABHI KHUSHI KABHIE GHAM, KAL HO NA HO and now KABHI ALVIDA NAA KEHNA. He does everything with style and there are no two ways about it.
KANK hits the marquee this August and needless to say, it will surely witness a stupendous reception like all other films produced under the Dharma productions Banner. It has already created waves and seems like a huge hit much before its release.
So let's see what's in store for the audience this August!
SRK, Karan’s guests watch ‘K.A.N.K.’
By IndiaFMMore on Karan Johar and K.A.N.K.! The film-maker has decided against holding the premiere show of his new film and even the pre-release screenings have been very, very few this time. The guest-list has been limited to the friends/well-wishers of the Johars.
The first screening was held for the cast, crew and the Yash Raj family, the second for Karan’s friends, the third for Bachchans’ guests and the fourth, held on Tuesday night [August 8] at Yash Raj, was for Karan and SRK’s guests, including the Videocon people, the Moranis and several hi-profile dignitaries from all walks of life.
The heavy downpour [it’s raining heavily in Mumbai since Saturday] didn’t deter the guests from arriving on time and the auditorium was packed to capacity. In fact, the audience gave a standing ovation once the screening of this 22-reeler ended.
P.S.: Some interesting trivia on K.A.N.K.
- The promo of not just DHOOM 2 [amazing, astounding], but also KABUL EXPRESS is included with the prints of the film.
- Speculation is rife that Kareena Kapoor makes a guest appearance in the film. That’s not true. Only two actors appear in cameos -- Kajol and John Abraham.
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