Promos, Trailers and Friends

Thanks to my hiatus I have plenty of trailers to show you. Yaaaay.

First off we finally get a glimpse of Prakash Jha's, much talked about, RAJNEETI. Eeks.

Watch the trailer, then we shall discuss:



I said "eeks" earlier because it's going to be hella interesting to see Arjun Rampal, Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif in this type of film. I won't be surprised if Rampalshines, he's an underrated actor. As for the latter two, I hope it displays a new dimension in their actings skills. More than Ranbir though, it's Katrina I'm anxious to see. I'm curious to see how she handles the role.

Neeext we've got a song promo of KARTHIK CALLING KARTHIK featuring the song Uff Teri Ada (psssst, the music has released, but I have yet to check it out. Let me know if you have). Oh boo, embedding's been disabled so here's the link, enjoy! The song is nothing special, maybe a little catchy. I like the picturisation of it though. It seems like it develops their relationship and characters well.

Lastly, here are a bunch of song promos for VEER. Oh boo embedding has been disabled AGAIN. Is it because people like me post it on blogs?? Doesn't that help their promotion though? Odd. I'll just have to, graciously, provide the links I suppose.

Meherbaniyan Promo
Surili Akhiyon Wale Promo
Taali Promo: This was picturised almost exactly how I had envisioned it. Creepy. Also, isn't Neena Gupta a little too old to be playing (what she was once best at) 'nautanki'esque roles? (Sidenote: If you can't remember who Neena Gupta is, think the other chick from Choli Ke Peeche.)

I get the same creeped out feeling from all the Veer promos as I did while watching Lucky- no time for love. The sets and costume are all well done and I appreciate it. It's just personal taste, I don't like it.

"Wah-Wah" Worthy Reality TV

So I've been really bad at this and missed last weekend, but I promise I'll be consistent starting this weekend!

Here are the top three performances from DID from this past weekend and one from the weekend before. I have a lot, but for length's sake I'm going to post a few to keep it short.

Yes, there's a huge Shakti bias going on on this site... haha, but this dance is just so lovely!



I knew Parvez was good but this dance just proves him to be near the ranks of Dharmesh. This was just pure entertainment, I loved every moment of it.



And anyone who follows the show, or even if they don't most probably have seen this AMAZING number by Kunwar and... who else? Shakti. I used to love the song "Khuda Jaane", then it got played out and now watching it again I've falling in love all over again. What a beautiful dance and HOW CLEAN ARE SHAKTI'S LINES?



Onto MKMM here are four videos I recall loving. Forgive if I've missed some, this is what happens when you don't update consistently. Sigh.

This one's for the classical lovers a la moi. Man Mohana from the film Seema rendered wonderfully by Anwesha:



A classic and one of my all-time favorite songs, Nah To Caravan from the film Barsaat Ki Raat, rendered by Abhaas:



This next fave. performance came as a surprise. I didn't really know about Neeti Mohan, but I figured she must be talented if Shankar picked her to be on his team. This performance to Namak Laga was well done. Her attitude was perfect and her dancing just added to the performance. After the performance I was google-ing her when I realized I've seen her live! She sang at the A.R. Rehman concert. The entire concert we were trying to figure out who this talented chick was and a year and some odd months later my question's been answered. Hooray! Sorry for the rant, but I was excited:



Laaastly, how I could I NOT post something Shreya-related? Her live performances sound like a recording! I only hope to hear her live someday. this is her performance of "Yeh Zindagi Ussi Ki Hai" from the film Anarkali.



sorry I didn't really provide much analysis or opinion in this post, but in the weeks to come I'll do it I promise!

Forthcoming Films

KHELEIN HUM JEE JAAN SEY (KHJJS): Before anything, can I just say how old school that poster looks? Like a flop movie from 1995. Just saying. Anyway, it's directed by Ashutosh Gowarikar, stars Deepika Padukone, Abhishek Bachchan and is produced by Ashutosh Gowariker Productions and PVR Pictures. The release date is undecided but is expected to be sometime at the end of 2010. KHJJS is based on Manini Chatterjee's book Do and Die: The Chittagong Uprising 1930-1934.

I feel like I wouldn't be able to sum up the uprising properly so here's a link to the Wikipedia article. I have no idea how accurate it is. It's nice to see a film will be showcasing what present-day Bangladesh was like in the pre-independence era. I'm not sure if Bangladesh allows Bollywood films to be shot there. I'm going to guess not because they've been shooting in Goa. Hm, I wonder why they didn't film in West Bengal? On another note, let's hope Manini is aware of how much of the film is based on the book and where in the film she's going to recieve credit ;) Glad to see Gowarikar is slipping back into his comfort zone after the disastrous What's Your Rashee? The film originally had Asin the leading role, but she opted out a month after signing claiming the role wasn't substantial enough. I wonder what the script of London Dreams had over this one? Maybe her choosiness is a result of London Dreams not doing well? So many question, no answers so let's just move onto the next film.

ATITHI TUM KAB JAAOGE? Directed by Ashwani Dhir, stars Konkona Sen Sharma and Ajay Devgan and produced by Wide Frames Films and Warner Bros. The film's about a distant relative (Paresh Rawal) who overstays his welcome in a happily married couple's home. Licences to Wed anyone? Paresh looks very Baburao Ganpatrao Apte from Hera Pheri, but this looks so funny and the following picture literally made me l-o-l:

The film's expected to release February 26, 2010.

Next up we have a Shyam Benegal movie, yaaaay. He's going the comedy route again, after Welcome to Sajjanpur, with WELL DONE ABBA which was formerly titled Abba ka Kuan. It stars Boman Irani, Minnisha Lamba, Sameer Dattani, and Ila Arun This film, too, is inspired by a book! I'm not even going to make jokes about whether it'll be controversial or what not because that's so beneath Benegal's caliber. Anyway the books he was inspired by were Narsaiyyan Ki Bavdi (I really want to say that word is "bawli") by Jeelani Bano and Phulwa Ka Pul by Sanjeev and a short film. The plot is about Arman Ali (Boman Irani) who takes leave from his work in Mumbai to find a groom for his daughter (Minnisha Lamba) who lives somewhere near Hyderabad (represent!). He goes back to his job after three months where he's waiting to be fired. Story's simple but I can't wait to see how Benegal plays it all out. It's going to be cool to see Irani under Shyam's direction. What a talented combo. Also, I'm really happy that Lamba was casted, I feel like she has potential. Even though Yahaan (her debut film) wasn't appreciated I fell in love with her in it and I think she did well with what she had in the story Pooranmasi in Dus Kahaniyaan. Maybe I just like seeing her in conservative roles, which may be the case for this film too.

Well friends, I'm pretty tired but watch out for posts mentioning 'Action Replay' starring Jr. Bachchan and Wifey Rai-Bachchan, 'Striker' starring Southern sensation Siddharth (best alliteration ever) and 'Crooked' starring Farhan Akthar, Hrithik Roshan and a third unsure party. Whoa, all those titles are in English.

Peace out.

[Photo Courtesy: Bollywood Hungama]

"Wah-Wah" Worthy Reality TV

I'm ashamed to admit that I'm an Indian reality TV fiend. Particularly the talent show ones. I'm aware of all the flaws and how some of the drama's fabricated, but I don't care. Two shows I'm currently following are Music Ka Maha Muqabla (MKMM) and Dance India Dance (DID). MKMM has a stellar judge line up (Shankar Mahadevan, Shreya Ghoshal, Shaan, Himmesh Reshammiya, Mohit Chauhan and Mika), but the only downfall of the show is that it's filmed in a concert atmosphere so the competition focuses on performances and hype as opposed to raw talent. It will pick up pace soon though, I hope.

I decided to post standout performances from this past weekend and will hopefully continue to do so every weekend.

Anyway here are my favorite videos from DID from this past week:

The beginning is cut off and I'm so pissed, but here's Shakti performing to Loosen Up My Buttons by the Pussycat Dolls. Because she's a trained dancer, she takes the performance from trashy sexy to pure sultry, something rarely seen in India (in my opinion). Be sure to listen to Mithun's reaction, it's hilarious:



On Saturday almost ALL the performances were amazing so this was one I could think of off the top of my head. He's pretty much captured everyone's heart. It's not that well known, but Dharmesh was the winner of Boogie Woogie's Mahayudh or maybe it was Ustaadon Ke Ustaad (can't remember the title) competition about a year maybe two ago.



America's a week behind in MMKM. Star Plus is so annoying when it comes to reality TV. Zee and Sony always have their ish up to date w/ us. Anyway here's my fave performance for the weekend:

Vineet, who was the runner up of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Challenge 2005 went on to participate in other singing shows such as Joh Jeeta Wohi Superstar and now MKMM. Personally, I'm not that big of a fan, but there's no denying he's talented:



More next week :)

Musical Madness

Music for MY NAME IS KHAN released in India today! I am eagerly eagerly anticipating to listen to it. After hearing a clip in the Sajda promo, I think we may have a potential love affair in the making. Anyway, here's the incredibly promising audio list:

The music is directed by Shankar Ehsaan Loy and lyrics by Niranjan Iyengar who's better known for writing dialogues.

1)Allah Hi Rahem
Singers: Ustad Rashid Khan

2)Khan Theme

3)Noor E Khuda
Singers: Adnan Sami, Shankar Mahadevan, Shreya Ghoshal

4)Rang De
Singers: Shankar Mahadevan, Suraj Jagan

5)Sajda
Singers: Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Shankar Mahadevan, Richa Sharma

6)Tere Naina
Singers: Shafqat Amanat Ali

Also, my verdict on VEER is a good one. I wasn't disappointed by the tracks at all. I like the songs in this order:

1) Kanha - A sultry Rekha Bhardwaj thumri... there's no going wrong. I just really, really love this style of music.

2) Salaam Aaya - A playful romantic number that hits all the right chords (pun intended).

3) Taali- Chorus version - Sukhwinder Singh's fierce voice is matched with a lot of percussion. This could have potentially been number two, but the song gets a little too repetitive.

4) Surili Ahkiyon Duet - I hate to see a Rahat number so far down on my list! All the other songs are just that good and this number doesn't sound all that different from his other tracks, but it's still lovely and I really like the lyrics.

5) Meherbaniyaan - This song I was disappointed with. I was hoping to hear some magic from Sonu Nigam, though he didn't let down with his singing (does he ever?). This song just hits me the wrong way and sounds out of place with the rest of tracks. I think it's supposed to be an upbeat old Western piece, but I'm personally not feeling it but again Sonu Nigam's singing is commendable.

Overall the songs are good the first time around but really grow on you. The only ones I instantly loved were Kanha and Salaam Aaya.

Promos, Trailers and Friends

Wohoo! The first teaser of KARTHIK CALLING KARTHIK finally dropped!



A little birdie tells me (and I do mean that almost literally because I'm referring to Twitter) that Karsh Kale is helping with the background score! Along with Midival Punditz and Farhan Akhtar. If you're in the dark about who Karsh Kale and Midival Punditz are, they're both amazing fusion artists. I can't express how soulful and soothing their music is so I'm going to leave you with this video I stumbled upon with both of them performing at The Paleo Festival in Geneva. You're seriously in for a treat:



If you're curious, the soundtrack is being directed by the Amar Akbar Anthony of music Shankar Ehsaan Loy.

Another promo for Rann has been released. This one's a song promo titled "Vande Mataram":



I know I'm supposed to feel really empowered by this, but the only thing that really intrigues me in this entire mess of a trailer is Riteish. The rest of it is so stereotypical Ram Gopal Varma that I've become immune to it. You?

All Izzn't Well

... but MOST izz well with 3 IDIOTS.

Let's start with the plus points. To begin with, this movie was easily one of the most anticipated movies of the year so obviously it had a huge opening weekend. Number two, not only did it open huge it totally met up to ALL the hype that was built up before the release. This film is breaking records and here are some stats to prove it. According to India's Business Standard Newspaper, 3 Idiots has made 51 million dollars (2.4 billion rupees) from the global market taking the title of the biggest Bollywood blockbuster, moving Ghajini down a spot which had made 2.25 billion rupees.

Truth be told, I was really nervous about this movie for two reasons. Firstly, Amir Khan (AK) was to be playing a college student, how on earth was that going to be pulled off? But it somehow did. I caught myself trying to disassociate myself from the charm, while watching the movie, to see if he did look too old for the part but I couldn't see it so AK succeeded. Who's surprised though? Secondly, how many directors manage a hat trick? Let alone a newbie director? Rajkumar Hirani met awesome success with his directorial debut, Munnabhai M.B.B.S.. He then went on to create a sequel, Lage Raho Munnabhai and proved the skeptics wrong and the nation was swept with Gandhigiri. Could he really have a third superhit? Welp, he did... who thinks he can go for a fourth with Munnabhai Chale Amerika?

Now for the negative... er 'negative.' Those who keep up with the Bollywood world know that 3 Idiots was inspired by Chetan Bhagat's Five Point Someone - What not to do at IIT. Now those of you who really really keep up with the Bollywood world/live in India know that there is/was a feud between Bhagat and The 3 idiots team. So here's what I've gathered: Chetan, like any blogger, expressed how he felt on his blog. He felt cheated. Upon reading the script, he was under the impression that the film was only going to be 5% of his book. After watching the film, he claims there were countless similarities and that he he wasn't recognized properly. Which, irrespective of how much was borrowed, I do think the film makers should have given recognition at the beginning instead of the ending during the credits. At the same time, however, Bhagat should've paid attention while signing the contract. So, in my opinion, it goes both ways. Also, during a press conference with the 3 Idiots teams one duffer of a journalist inquired/accused the team about the Bhagat controversy without having read the book. So Mr. Chopra doesn't have any of it and speaks without thinking and the journalists, in turn, are outraged and demand an apology. I'm reminded of a scene out of some sort of Madhur Bandharkar film. Watch the video:

To my knowledge, no solution was really reached just a lot of drama but the dispute's finally ended.

Trailers, Promos and Friends

I wish I had an excuse for my hiatus from blogging, but I don't. I let winter break get the best of me and I went into 100% lazy mode. So I apologize.

Here are some overdue trailers and stills:


Here's the first song promo, Sajda, from MY NAME IS KHAN:


The song is so divine. I can't wait to hear it in its entirety. I'm also pleased to see the Shajol (as the duo's been christened) magic is alive and evident. I was afraid it wouldn't meet up to it's insanely high expectations thanks to the hype.

Next up is RGV (Ram Gopal Verma)'s upcoming film, RANN. It features Riteish Deshmukh, Amitabh Bachchan, Sudeep, Neetu Chandra, Mohnish Behl, Paresh Rawal and Gul Panag. I'm happy/surprised Riteish was casted, even if RGV films haven't been up to par as of late. Hopefully it will reveal a shade of Riteish's acting skills we haven't seen before. Paresh, it appears, will be taking on the role of a villain. Something we haven't seen a while and something he is pretty freakin' good at.

The film's plot centers around the corruption of the media. An appropriate topic to approach because, evidently, there has been a lot of resentment toward the media in India as of late. According to the celebs, anyway but do they ever like the media?? Anyhow check out this trailer of RANN:


After the success of his two critically acclaimed films (Khosla Ka Ghosla and Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye! )Dibakar Banerjee is ready to drop his latest directorial venture, LOVE, SEX, AUR DHOKA also known as LSD. The film is about voyeurism and was inspired by an incident that occurred in Delhi. Apparently, a girl was getting intimate with her boy toy while he recorded her on his phone and later sent a mass text with the footage and soon it went viral all over Delhi. Sound familiar? Anurag Kashyap featured a similar scene in Dev D. The Delhi incident isn't the only instance and these scandals have caused quite some drama. Director Banerjee says,

The film is not just about the MMS scandal but shows what happens before it. It is about love in our real life and love in Bollywood. It is about what media makes of spy camera investigations

. he also goes on to say it's about "the digital eyes that surround us everywhere." It's a bold film and I'm excited to see what he does with it. The film's produced by the queen of telly, Ekta Kapoor's Balaji Motion Pictures. I love how the topic of her soaps are so insanely unrealistic (I'm guilty of watching some, though) and this movie touches upon a very real subject. See for yourself, check out this trailer:



Lastly, here is the movie poster for KARTHIK CALLING KARTHIK. Deepika looks freaksihly like Priyanka Chopra... again. Last time I thought that was in Om Shanti Om.



Oh and if for some freakish reason you haven't caught the My Name Is Khan trailer check it out! We've seen the Bollywood touch on the terrorist drama multiple times before (most recent being Kurbaan) but because of the big names involved this one seems like it may come out a winner, plus the whole autism twist helps. Which, that angle too, isn't all that original. Taare Zameen Par, Koi Milgaya, Main Aisa Hi Hoon all feature a character with a type of disability. I'm sure I'm forgetting some. Here's the trailer:



Lots more to blog about. Hopefully I'll have it up by tomorrow night!

Am I Nuts? Sisters From Another Mister

Mmm... maybe not "sisters from another mister" in this case but more like long-lost-daughter or something like that.

A couple of days ago Chaudvin Ka Chand was on TV, and as a devout Waheeda fan (and even Guru Dutt and that entire camp) it was only appropriate I watch it again. So I did. As I'm watching something strikes me that never has before...

Doesn't Sonam Kapoor look like Waheeda Rehman? Not a carbon copy or anything, but there are definitely "jhalaks" er factors that strongly remind me of her. Both of them have large expressive eyes and semi-pouty lips on their beautifully petite faces. Here's a picture of the two. You decide:



Now, I don't know if I'm really delayed in making this comparison and if it's a commonly said thing or... I am completely nuts. I'm going to go ahead and guess that it's not a commonly said thing because remember when Cine Blitz launched their book? The cover was an homage to Pyaasa in which they had Katrina Kaif pose as Waheeda. Still scratching my head on that one... it should have OBVS been Sonam! Again, I could be really off because I go through phases where I make really outrageous comparisons. When I went through my Shilpa Shetty phase, I thought Jennifer Aniston looked like her. When I went through my Dimple Kapadia phase, I thought Sandra Bullock looked like her (I still agree with that one).

Anyway, holla at a sista and let me know what you thank!

p.s. I'm not sure why this thought didn't dawn on me when they starred together in Delhi 6 together. Odd.

Am I Nuts? "Inspiration"

Once, a long time ago (in a far away land), I did some major Sharmila Tagore stalking via Youtube so now I get suggestions to watch videos of hers and one such video was the song "Kisi Raah Mein" from Mere Hamsafar. I forgot what a gem-of-a-song it was so I decided to watch/listen to it. As am I'm listening, I feel like I'm experiencing deja vu and I can't decide why when it dawns upon me. I'm listening to the words "mere humsafar" with that classic beat from the song "mere humsafar" from Refugee.

One of Anu Malik's most celebrated pieces, "Mere Humsafar" from Refugee wasn't as original as we'd hoped. I know Anu is notorious for jacking tunes and such, but I really wish Refugee wasn't on that list of stolen/inspired tunes. Alright, so it's not completely stolen but that note-worthy tabla-beat in the background of the song "Mere Humsafar" was used in "Kisi Raah Mein." Coincidence? I think not. Maybe it is, but that's doubtful. Here are both the videos. Am I nuts??

Kisi Raah Mein If you haven't heard this song before wait 'til 0:21 to understand why I find them similar:


Mere Humsafar:


P.S. I'm mad, but the song "Mere Humsafar" is way too divine to dislike. I used to equally credit Anu, Alka and Sonu. Now Sonu and Alka get a little more than Anu, that's all.

Musical Madness

OMFG, I think the music of Veer is going to be awe-some. I should've thought twice about it, but didn't and now I've come across an audio list of the songs and judging from the titles/singers/lyricists it seems like it's going to be good stuff. Here's the list, judge for yourself:

The music directors are Sajid-Wajid and the lyrics by the oh-so poetic Gulzaar Saab (I feel like it's, almost, sinful to not add the 'saab' after his name).

1)Kanha - Thumri
Singers: Rekha Bhardwaj, Sharib Sabri, Toshi Sabri, Shabaab Sabri

2)Meherbaniyan
Singers: Sonu Nigam

3)Salaam Aaya
Singers: Roop Kumar Rathod, Shreya Ghoshal

4)Spirit Of Veer - Instrumental

5)Surili Akiyon Wale
Singers: Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Suzanne D'Mello

6)Surili Akiyon Wale - Duet
Singers: Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Sunidhi Chauhan, Suzanne D'Mello

7)Taali
Singers: Sukhwinder Singh, Sonu Nigam, Wajid, Neuman Pinto

8)Taali - Solo
Singers: Sukhwinder Singh

Okay, an album that features Sonu Nigaam, Shreya Ghoshal, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Sunidhi Chauhan, Sukhwinder Singh, Roopkumar Rathod, The (new age) Sabri Brothers, Rekha Bhardwaj and a Thumri (yeah, I'm an old woman at heart)... you've got to be REALLY talented in order to screw that one up. I am hyped. I love when good soundtracks come out because I want to prove all the folks (who's 'all'? The haters on Youtube, artists from yesteryear, etc.) that in this day and age we DO have awesome talent and can create legendary, traditional INDIAN music. No pressure, Sajid-Wajid.

The music is expected to release December 18th.

If my ramblings weren't enough, LISTEN TO... rather than check out, this VEER promo of 'Salaam Aaya.' I highly suggest you play the video, but not watch it the first time through. It's more charming to simply listen to it.

Noooo, it won't let me embed it! They just put it up three hours ago, maybe some rookie did it. Here's the link: Salaam Aaya

Enjoy!

Promos, Trailers and Friends

Finally, something that falls in the "friends" category. This isn't a trailer, but more like a sneak peek that aired in India on Star One. A sneak peek of what, you ask? MY NAME IS KHAN a.k.a. the HIGHLY HIGHLY anticipated film reuniting the magical trio Kajol, Shahkrukh Khan and Karan Johar.

Once the real thing is up on the internet I will put that here stat, but until then enjoy this boot-legged version (okay, I don't support piracy, etc. BUT COME ON IT'S MNIK!)

Ripped

Two MORE actors have jumped on the "ripped-six-pack-yeaaah" (read in jock voice) bandwagon. Mr. Riteish Deshmukh (for Housefull) and Emraan Hashmi (for Once Upon A Time in Mumbai).

I'll admit, Riteish's 'new look' makes me go "damn" but... I still cringe looking at Emraan Hashmi.


Riteish Deshmukh


Emraan Hashmi

[Photo Source: Glam Sham]

Happy Birthday, Legend!

I don't think I'll be celebrating every single celebrity's birthday on here, but when you're a legend, it's a must. So...

Happy 87th Birthday to Yusuf "Dilip Kumar" Khan!



Mr. Kumar has been associated with some of the greatest films in India Cinema. He holds the most award for "Filmfare Best Actor"(eight) and was honored the Dadasaheb Phalke Award so it's safe to say he's the REAL King Khan though his nickname "Tragedy King" is fitting. It's so awesome to have an actor from the Golden Era alive today. When Mughal-E-Azam was re-released in color, he was the only existing cast memeber. Imagine!

Just wanted to wish the big guy, that's all :)

[Photo Source: Movie Talkies]

Internat'l Appearance

Yippie Ay Oh Kye Ay! Priyanka Chopra is currently in South Africa gearing up to be one of the ten judges for the Miss World contest. HOLLER! Okay, so I guess it shouldn't be that surprising or exciting seeing how she is an alumni of the competition.

Priyanka Chopra won the Miss World competition in the year 2000 at the tender age of 18, apparently one of the youngest winners. Here's a video of her crowning moment:



I held my breath when they announced the winner as if I didn't already know results.

FUN FACT FOR THE POST:

India has held the Miss World title five times.

1)

Reita Faria Miss World 1966

2)
Aishwarya Rai Miss World 1994

3)
Diana Hayden Miss World 1997

4)
Yukta Mookhey Miss world 1999

5)
Priyanka Chopra Miss World 2000

Seriously, how cool must it be to say "Yeah, I was Miss World 2000." Nobody will get to have that cool of a year in the next 990 years.

Promos, Trailers and Friends

Stills of KARTHIK CALLING KARTHIK (KCK) have finally slipped out! Quick sidenote: does the title 'Karthik Calling Karthik' remind you of "Kramer VS Kramer"? Me too. Anyway check the stills out!





I really like the close-up shot. Something very chilling in the way Deepika's looking at the camera.

Next fillum. I'm so so so ashamed, I didn't know about this film earlier. I came across it while doing some Vidya Balan stalking. It's titled ISHQIYA, slated to release January 29th, directed by Abhishek Chaubhey (writer for Omkara), produced by Shemaroo Ent. & Vishal Bhardwaj and stars Naseerudding Shah, Arshad Warsi and Vidya Balan. I accidentally read a plot of the story, but I think it may have revealed too much so I'll spare you the info. Watch the trailer and enjoy! Um... since the film IS associated with Vishal Bhardwaj don't be surprised by the vulgar language. Just warnin' ya!



at 0:46 I'm reminded of 'City of God', you? This looks like it could work... for a select crowd. Omkara, obviously, had a lot of the same flavor as this movie but it also had a lot of big names that brought in a crowd who, otherwise, wouldn't enjoy such films. Just a guess, anyway. It will probably receive a lot of critical acclaim. What do you think?

So, I randomly caught this on TV the other day and remember reading about it a while ago. It completely slipped my mind to post it here until I saw it on TV. The film is titled RAAT GAYI BAAT GAYI (RGBG), starring Neha Dhupia, Vinay Pathak & Rajat Kapoor, directed by Saurabh Shukla, and produced by Rangita Pritish Nandy & Rajat Kapoor. It's slated to release on New Years Eve... hm ironic (once you watch the trailer, you'll understand). Anyway, Vinay and Rajat are both fine actors and I've always said that I'm probably the only Neha Dhupia fan out there (alllright, so from the looks of it, I'm a lot of celebs' fans. I guess it's why I love the movie industry!). It has already won a lot of acclaim at many film festivals, which doesn't surprise me. So check out this lovely trailer:



Yes, yes, yes I realize it seems heavily inspired by The Hangover and most people are probably under that impression which is why Director Saurabh had a statement ready to deny it. He says,

"It's untrue; both these films are nothing alike. Let me clarify that I started Raat Gayi Baat Gayi much before The Hangover was made. I thought of Raat Gayi Baat Gayi when I attended a certain house party a while back. I was feeling terribly bored and kept staring at people aimlessly. The next morning, I narrated the episode to Rajat, who suggested that I write a story revolving around a party. That's how the story of Raat Gayi Baat Gayi took shape."

Since I want to believe it, I'm going to. It is a pretty simple storyline.

Next up. I've held back from showing you every single Rocket Singh promo there's been, cause there are a lot. But this one I had to... it has Gauhar Khan (the chick at 0:13). :)



Not sure why I'm still dropping promos of the films seeing as how it just released today. An insider of Filmfare who just got done watching the film and I mean JUST got done (technology, how I love thee) says,

"Rocket Singh, definitely one of the best movies this year!. Ranbir as a sardar is awesome, so is supporting cast"

I'm also reading from others that...

"[it] orbits sales world charmingly. Adorable, drama-free, super-witty, superbly paced-story & dialogues. Plot flows smoothly."

and

"Jerry Maguiresque sincerity rooted in Indian middle class values and the degenerate crprt culture of the last decade"

Woohoo! Hope all this is true.

That's all for now, folks!

[Photo Source: Miday Masala]

Am I Nuts? Sisters From Another Mister

So about a year or two ago, I went on a wild wild rampage searching for the movie 'Rang.' I don't know why. It wasn't a hit, but I HAD TO WATCH IT... mostly because I'm a Divya Bharti fan (I don't know if it's because she's forever young, or what but I love her). Anywhere it was NOWHERE to be found on the internet, which is just really bizarre because every movie and their mom is on the internet. Anyway, now when it comes on TV I feel it is only my duty to watch or DVR it. It's only come on twice... a couple of days ago being the second time. Anywaaay, I was watching it today and I cannot get over how similar Anushka Sharma and Divya Bharati look. I said it right when I saw the promos for Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi and I'll say it again. They should have used Anushka in Om Shanti Om because I'm convinced the story of the film was inspired by Divya's death.

Anyway, I pulled together a picture of the two sisters from another mister and I want your opinion. Am I nuts?? Holler at a sister.

Paa-tastic!

PAA released this weekend and, as was expected, is doing wonderfully or as my cheesy title suggests, 'Paa-tastic.'

Like I said earlier, I try to refrain from reading reviews until I've seen the film myself. What I've gathered, though, is that it's a feel good film that is definitely worth watching because it's a different story told in a heart-warming manner. That's pretty much the universal opinion. Amit Ji is to have done a phenomenal job. Such a good job that people forget it's him playing 'Auro.' And recieiving just as much hype as Big B, is NOT Jr. Bachchan, but Ms. Balan! I'm really, really happy to hear that. She claims she hasn't recieved this much attention since Parineeta. I freaking loved her in Parineeta. Mr. Masand (famed critic) tweeted this while watching the film:

"Best Actress race just widened. Priyanka (Kaminey), Konkona (LBC), Kareena (Kurbaan) please make room for Vidya Balan. She's superb in Paa."

I felt like Vidya was cheated out of awards for her performance in Bhool Bhulaiyaa. I mean I was, legitimately, mortified during the 'exorcism' scene but then again Kareena was also really deserving that year. Wow, my heart just warmed at the thought of all the talented actresses currently in Bollywood. Anyway, Rajeev Masand also went on to say that she carried the film (along with AB, of course). I don't know why, but I'm really excited. Like a child of mine is being praised or something. Remember when I posted the promo and I said I liked the scene where they're jumping in the puddle? I feel like I subconsciously knew... haha okay, yes I realize I'm getting carried away. Any how the premiere was as star-studded as ever... here are a few pictorials for you to enjoy!



The Bachchan Family



Kabbab mein haddi (third wheel), Vidya. JK, it's Aish who should feel weird since she's not in the film.



Big B w/, I'm assuming, the kids in the film. He looks genuinely happy.



SRK charming the charming Vidya. I love this.



The 3 Idiots team also showed face and Amir Khan ACTUALLY suited up! (he never goes the whole 9 yards w/ formal clothing)



I couldn't resist, I had to show the twinkiness.

The premiere also saw: Kajol & Ajay Devgan, Dia Mirza, Shamita Shetty, Anil Kapoor, Shammi Kapoor, Zeenat Aman, Hema Malini, Tina Ambani (wow lots of yesteryear actors), Jacqueline Fernandez, Yash Chopra, Akshay Kumar, Juhi Chawla, Mahdevan, Twinkle Khanna, Ranbir Kapoor, Karan Johar, Neeta Lulla... really this list goes on and on and on. Basically if you're someone who is anyone, you were there.

The following pics are from a press meet held right before the release. Vidya looked stunning and because my cousin finds her to be "lajawaab" (don't blame him) I thought I'd post these as well:



The whole married angle looks pretty damn believable here.



She OWNS both of her Sabyasachi Saris at both events, agree?

Anyway, that's enough Vidya Balan PR work for the day :)

[Photo Source: Hamara Photos]

Forthcoming Films

So, this completely slipped my mind in my past 'Forthcoming Films' posts.

ANJAANA ANJAANI starring Priyanka Chopra and Ranbir Kapoor (definitely just wrote 'Priyanka Kapoor and Ranbir Chopra' it was awkward, but don't those names flow?, directed by Siddharth Anand of Salaam Namaste/Ta Ra Rum Pum/Bachna Ae Haseeno fame and produced by Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment Pvt. Ltd.. Judging from his previously directed movies I guess it's safe to assume this is going to be another young, life as an 'NRI' flick. The only difference with this film compared to his previous ones is that it's under a different production camp, but what a difference that's made. When I think of his three previous movies I automatically imagine the title to be in bright yellow/blue/white colors (am I alone on that?), and the leading duo dressed in flamboyantly colored yet trendy clothes. I'm really digging this sleek monochromatic mature-clothing look. It really speaks volumes about the film.

The film is slated to release October 1, 2010. Hoo-wee. They just started shooting for it, so makes sense. Priyanka Chopra just recently returned from a shooting schedule in Bangkok for the film (Shahid Kapoor was also there for another film. They supposedly had din din... maybe for closure's sake). I have high hopes for this Priyanka-Ranbir jodi.

[photo source: HHC]

Trailers, Promos and Friends

Man, the promos just never stop dropping. I'm not complaining. They're not spectacular by any means, but I'll take it.

A lovey-dovey number from Chance Pe Dance titled "Pal Mein Hi":



I get a very "Bakhuda Tumhi Ho" vibe. You? Also, I must admit I didn't really think much of the Genelia-Shahid pairing, but it seems to be really cute in this video. I am horrified by one thing though and that is how at 1:50 it looks like Genelia is teaching Shahid how to dance. Come on... don't tell me she's a dance instructor! At least get someone who can dance! Okay, I'm being a drama queen she's not baaaad but she's not good either. Ugh.

The other promo is a song titled '10 on 10' from Pyaar Impossible:



So... I hate to say this. I really really do, but doesn't this whole thing (minus the last part w/ Uday's fantasy sequence) remind you of a climatic scene in a severely teeny bopper film like, "Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen" or some Disney Channel Original? Anyway, if anyone can pull off playing a young college 'rocker' chick without looking absolutely ridiculous it is Priyanka (or I could just be really biased). Anyhow, I'm still looking for that trailer because it was better than these song promos.

Also, I was asked what this movie was about so here's what little I can reveal: It's just a typical story about beauty and the geek. I think The Beauty may currently be in a dead-end relationship (with Dino Morea) or is confused and thinks that he's the one when it's, obviously, The Geek. Yeah, sorry there isn't much to be said. Oh, the film is directed by the masoom bacha from Masoom, the bhola naujavaan from Mohabbatein/Papa Kehte Hain, the director aadmi of Roadside Romeo, the guy who has KJO as a BFF but still can't seem to find success a.k.a Jugal Hansraj. He seems talented, just not doing the right thing at the right time.

That is all for now, I'm waiting for a new 3 Idiots promo to drop... I want more insight on that film!