It's here!! The first look of AISHA has finally dropped. I have been waiting and waiting to see what direction they were going to take the film and ohmahgah, in spite of my sky high expectations, I'm not in the least disappointed! (Btw, if you're wondering who/what/where/when Aisha is... remind yourself here.)
HOW CAN YOU NOT LOVE THE FIRST PICTURE? It's sooo fitting for the character. The second looks like a magazine spread-- very chic/elegant which, again, is fitting. Abhay Deol looks so very dapper in the last picture.
There's only a few in Bollywood who can carry off the fashion required for this film, but Sonam obviously fits the bill so I loved that she's casted in this. I don't think I have ever anticipated a Hindi film for its clothes, but I deffo am for Aisha. Let's hope they get it right, which according to these stills they are. As anxious as I am to catch whatever glimpse I can, I hope they keep the promos minimal so that the movie remains an enigma until its release.
The other day I finally got around to listening to Rajneeti songs. I totally wasn't anticipating the soundtrack or anything because based off the promos I thought, "enh... will it even have a soundtrack?" I, unfaithfully (to Bollywood), didn't bother to check the music director(s) or anything. Lucky for me, I caught a song promo on B4U and I'm glad I did. The music is surprisingly good so you should definitely check it out. But that's not why I'm posting. It's something I saw in the video that caused this post. Barkha Bisht has/had an item number in the film! Barkha = a television actress, a fabulous dancer and a killer body. I call her "The Shilpa Shetty of Tellywood" in my head.
Is it becoming a trend to feature television actresses/models in item songs? Remember Gauhar Khan's featured in Once Upon a Time in Mumbai? I don't mind at all. If you haven't figured out by now, I'm on a crusade to bring back quality female dancing in Bollywood (a pent up rant I've been saving to post) and I've always said TV actresses are better than film actresses. Shama Sikandar also has a dance number in the upcoming comedy, Kushti.
Here's Barkha's item from Rajneeti (sorry for the poor quality this was the best I could find):
The only complaint I have about all of this is the song doesn't match the OVERDONE club scene. It does, but it doesn't. There was so much potential to run with this and do a ghagra-wearing tumka dance, but of course... we must feature a club scene. It probably doesn't even work into the story line, but we still should do it because that's what India loves. Ugh, SO OVER IT! Okay, in their defense, I'm sure a ghagra-wearing tumka dance didn't work into the story either... but still! Anyhow, I hear this entire song was cut from the film. Someone clarify?
Shama Sikander's item number for Kushti:
They got everything right except for that horrifically annoying voice. I know it's supposed to be a rustic-folk feel, but they failed and it kills the entire song. What a shame. Isn't it sooooo refreshing to see a dancer who can complete her moves?! Ah. I'm glad she's sticking to item numbers though and not dipping into the acting pool anymore 'cause that was a train wreck.
I've been a fan of Shama and Barkha's dancing, an extreme fan of Gauhar's dancing but I'm an absolute die-hard fan when it comes to Mouni Roy's moves. Glad 3/4 have been featured. Now someone give Mouni a beautiful mujra number for us to marvel over!
Okay, so it's not awards season nor is the Cannes really an award function (but it kind of is) but I didn't know where else to place this post.
Our lovely Desi stars graced the red carpet this year as they have been (and been serving on the jury... this year being represented by Mr. Shekhar Kapur). Our Cannes regular Mrs. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has been gracing the red carpet, photo calls and parties. Have a looksies, my friends:
Aishwarya Rai in I'm guessing Gucci because it was a Gucci party
Aishwarya Rai in Gucci
Aishwarya Rai in Gucci again
Wow, Abhishek did you steal that ugly outfit from Dhai Akshar Prem Ke?
Enough of Ms. Rai... let's move onto a rookie. Lady Deepika Padukone went to the festival for the very first time and I think she fared pretty well. People were hating on her haphazardly put together sari, but I don't care because with a face like that she could wear a trash bag and still draw positive attention.
Deepika Padukone in Rohit Bal
Aaaand lastly the cast of Udaan (the only Indian movie being featured at the festival).
Rajat Barmecha, Vikramaditya Motwane, Ronit Roy and Ram Kapoor
This isn't really on location, but more like a still from the film Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey. Remember when I told you about it? Anyway have a gander at Deepika in traditional clothing:
Ohhh how typical. How Bollywood. How Dharma Productions. Am I complaining? Nope! Oh wait, I do have one thing to complain about...THE SPELLING OF THE TITLE. The creators of these films are educated people, they know it's incorrect so is it all the superstitious stuff? I don't know, but I hate it... more than Imran Khan's character hates 'luv storys.' Oh gag me. Dumb down the youth a little more, why don't you. Sigh. On a brighter note, I think it is totally refreshing seeing Sonam and Imran in these roles... especially Sonam. So far we've only seen her in marvelous desi attire on screen or in marvelous high fashion off screen so seeing her in casual clothes is a welcome change. I look forward to this film (as I do to pretty much every movie it seems) 'cause who doesn't love a good ol' Bollywood flick? Not to mention I have a sneaky suspicion they're going to spoof a lot of K Jo's flicks so that will be fun to see.
Raavan Theatrical Trailer
OH MY GOD that very last shot with Abhi is just psychotic in a good way... if that even makes sense. Oh and confession... I think I might be an Aishwarya fan again because I got excited seeing her in the trailer. Anyway, there are a few song promos up as well click here to watch!
While we're here talking about the magnificent man who brought A. R. Rahman to the Hindi Film Industry which in turn into our livesv(Mani Ratnam), can I just go ahead and tell you about this movie of his I stumbled across the other day? It was an old '80s Tamil film (dubbed in Hindi) titled "Anjali." It's about how a family/community deals with having a mentally handicapped four year old girl in their lives. Holy cow, it was such a real film which made it a feel good film as well. The kids in it were unbelievably talented actors so I wasn't surprised to find that they had won National Awards for Best Child Artiste. The movie also won for best regional film. It's not shocking to see he dealt with a film like this so beautifully because 'real issues', per se, are his forte-- which makes me curious to see how he'll play out Raavan since it's based on mythology. Anyway, this is my two-decades-later PR for the movie so if you ever happen to see it on (I caught it on Z Cine) or are looking for a good watch... watch it.
Once Upon a Time in Mumbai Theatrical Trailer:
Okay, not the biggest Ajay fan (slay me). I kind of really despise Emraan-- though I am guilty of enjoying some of his films. Feel indifferent towards Kangana (she's talented, I know but so type-casted) and Prachi is adorable, hasn't disappointed, but still needs to prove herself. Basically what I'm saying is that this film has a lot of things going against it, for me personally, but then I watched this trailer... and I'm totally feelin' it? I love the '70s feel, the '70s drama, the '70s gang wars. It all seems very 'blow' esque. I think I could like this and if anything I'll watch 'cause the gorgeous Gauhar Khan has an item number, holla! This excites me not only cause I'm a fan of her's but because that means there will be some very legit. dancing... assuming Saroj Khan's laadla son, Raju Khan does justice to her (Gauhar's) talent. Judging from the trailer I'm guessing it's a cabaret number... meh, not the biggest cabaret fan but at least it's something.
Rumor has it Freida Pinto is supposed to be the next Bond girl. Here's the catch, I've only heard about this through Desi sources and I have no idea if it's confirmed or what.
The film's supposed to take place in Afghanistan so a brown girl only makes sense. I love Freida, I do, but aren't Bond girls supposed to be voluptuous? She's petite... gorgeous, but petite. Now if I were to have it MY way (and wouldn't we all love that?) I think Shilpa Shetty would be PERFECT. Wasn't she being considered at one point and time or did I make that up? I think I made that up, because when Aishwarya was being considered I think I went on the same rant about how it should be Lady Shetty.
Okay so she's making a weird face. We all know she's attractive... but look at that body!!
Saif Ali Khan and Rekha received the Padma Shri this year for their contribution to Indian Cinema. Past winners have been Shahrukh Khan, Amir Khan, A.R. Rehman, Madhuri Dixit, Hema Malini, Shekhar Kapoor, Hariharan... all who are immensely talented. Rekha receiving this I understand... Saif? Mmm, not so much. No offense. He's talented forrr sure. I think about Omkara and am stunned by his acting skills, but I don't know if he's earned himself this award just yet. Either way... I can't help but marvel at how regal him and his arm-candy Kareena looked. He completely looks the title of "chote nawab" here.
Why don't our Bollywood men don sherwanis or kurta salwars more often? It takes their handsome level about ten notches higher than when they wear clothes intended for the youth. Just saying.
If I were to sit and post every magazine cover that our lovely stars grace I would be so behind... but this particular one was so stellar I couldn't not share.
WOW. Right? Right.
Waheeda Rehman Ji, Hema Malini Ji, Karisma Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor, Sonam Kapoor and Deepika Padukone ALL ON ONE COVER? It kind of just takes your breath away... and then that record halting noise kicks in. Where the hell are the late '80s/early '90s ladies? Obviously getting all of these women on same date must have been hell and beyond but it would've just been perfect if Madhuri, Sridevi or Juhi were there. Regardless, I thought this cover was awesome.
Hrithik Roshan is the latest actor to join the singing bandwagon. When I read about this I kind of rolled my eyes because I figured all reports were using the term loosely. I mean, remember when Amir Khan "sang" "Kya Bolti Tu" or Shahrukh "sang" "Apun Bola" but really both were just speaking in sing-songy ways. Or before the music of Devdas released everyone was talking about how Madhuri was being classically trained for a song and we heard... and it was good, but not the full-on singing we were all expecting.
Of course I had to check it out and I was pleasantly surprised! So surprised it's currently my latest obsession. This kind of music strikes a chord with me (pun unintended). I love it so much I'm willing to forgive the line "lovers forever." I mean, it's no secret that I hate when English is used in Hindi songs because it usually sounds ridiculous (not always). Anyway have a listen!
Btw, while we're all here talking about actors singing don't you feel like Kareena's singing in "Jab Nahin Aaye The Tum" from Dev was sort of shunned? It's not supposed to be wonderfully melodious, but it's so real and charming:
Laaastly, in my previous post I mentioned the film Sadiyaan... well here's a gem of a song that will probably go uncelebrated due to the film it's associated with. You'll only like it if you're into Richa Sharma and/or Qawwali-type songs. If that's up your alley check it out:
(hahah what a random and totally inappropriate picture)
So there's this film I accidentally stumbled across, I have no idea how... titled "SADIYAAN." So I did some investigating. Generally, it wouldn't be a film I would even think to blog about but there are a few reasons why I've decided to share it with you. A) It stars Rekha, Hema Malini and Rishi KapoorB) It's about Partition.
Point A is pretty self-explanatory... I mean, that's just a little too epic for anyone's own good. I'm wondering how much money they got out of this because... everything else about the movie is lacking. Let me fill you in, it's directed byRaj Kanwar (the wonderful man who brought Priyanka Chopra into our Bollywood lives), the lead actors are newbies Luv Sinha(Shatrugan Sinha's son) and Ferena Wazir and the music was composed by Adnan-I-miss-his-mota-self-Sami.
Point B... even though movies based on partition usually fall flat because the story is either biased and/or inaccurate I still want to watch because... Confession: I kind of have an obsession with partition. No, really. I think this quote sums up why "The ifs and buts of history... form an insubstantial if intoxicating diet." That's from one of my favorite books, A Suitable Boy, which incidentally takes place a few years after partition. Anyway, I never got the chance or was brave enough to ask the super-buzurgh-folk (basically the elderly) in my family about it. Learnin' about the Civil Rights Movement in the '60s during my U.S. History classes was intriguing and all, but this kind of history my family was a part of. You know? I don't know why I went on that spiel, but it's been festering inside for years now. Basically all I'm sayin' is that I like to see/read about anything dealin' with that and that's one of the reasons why this movie might have me as audience... some day. Not to mention the music is catchy. I'm not even going to bother subjecting you to the floptastic looking trailer. If you're curious look it up. Luv Sinha's acting makes Tushar Kapoor seem Oscar-worthy.
I keep forgetting to mention the upcoming film TEES MAAR KHAN directed by Farah Khan, starringAkshay Kumar, Akshay Khanna andKatrina Kaif (wow, lots of Ks going here). The music's being done by Vishal-Shekhar. From the looks of it, it's a typical love triangle and that the two men are con-artists. Reaaaaal original, Bollywood, real original. Farah Khan is the master behind this and I've liked her first two movies (Main Hoon Na and Om Shanti Om). Her films have been clever, satirical and funny with an OD of Bollywood masala... just the way I like it so we'll just have to wait for promos to drop before I judge any further. That will be a while though because the film's expected to drop late December.
Priyanka Chopra, who tried to keep her whereabouts an enigma, is currently in Kashmir shooting for Vishal Bhardwaj's Saath Khoon Maaf. Here are some absolutely lovely pictures of her whilst shooting there.
OMG. She looks so beautiful in that second picture! I can't get over it. There's also a picture of her in a full blown burqa. It's pretty tight.
From what I'm gathering, the film is about a woman who has seven husbands (I'm assuming at different times) and kills them off one by one... thus the title "Saath Khoon Maaf" (Seven Forgiven Murders/Forgiven Seven Murders). It's apparently based off of the book, Susanna's Seven Husbands by Ruskin Bond(another book adaptation. Is this Bwood's latest trend?). She claims the role is a really difficult one and is taking a toll on her. Oh, but Priyanka we have full faith in you! I mean, Shahrukh Khan didn't call you the greatest actress in Bollywood today for no reason. Anyway, the seven leading men are John Abraham, Vivaan Shah, Mohan Lal, Anu Kapoor, Neil Nitin Mukesh, Naseeruddin Shah, and Irrfan Khan. Did your eyes glimmer with delight upon reading "Naseeruddin Shah?" Mine too. I mean, Naseeruddin + Priyanka + Vishal Bhardwaj... how can you go wrong. Oh... it's all too promising, so I'm going to calm down a bit and lower my expectations. Saath Khoon Maaf is expected to release sometime in 2011. I hope I'm misinformed and it's actually earlier. Haha, here's to hoping!
FINALLY! The much much awaited and talked about KITES trailer has dropped. The film stars Hrithik Roshan, Barbara Mori, and Kangana Ranaut. It's directed by Anurag Basu and produced by daddy-dearest, Rakesh Roshan. The chemistry between Hrithik and Barbara is supposed to be incredibly hot. So hot that there were rumors of an alleged affair, but those died when wifey Sussanne Roshan claimed her and Barbara were friends. The dancing in this is supposed to be spectacular and I don't doubt it. It looks action packed, thrilling and passionate. Here's the theatrical trailer, you judge for yourself.
Next up is a promo for BADMASH COMPANY, the Shahid-Anushka starrer I talked about earlier.
This looks like Bunty aur Babli meets Dhoom, but honestly I don't mind. I'm loving the cast. Seeing Shahid-Anushka on screen is sooo refreshing. Nice, adorable, young and promising faces. AND IS THAT MEIYANG CHANG FROM INDIAN IDOL?? Oh, but it is. How did that even happen? I don't know nor do I care. I'm just glad to see him on screen again. (Btw, if you're wondering how/why there is a Chinese man who can speak Hindi so well don't be alarmed. He was born and raised in India. His family has been living in India for three generations. He's more Indian than I am American. Weird.) Also, I'm going to cross my fingers and hope for a good dance number... but all I sense are annoying club bangers... that are catchy and I grow to love and hate. P.S. this film is directed by Parmeet Sethi. Parm-who? "Kuljeet" from DDLJ,"Raj Malhotra" (the boss) from Jassi Jaisi Koi Nahin. He's also Archana Puran Singh's husband. Archana Puran Singh = "Ms. Borganza" from KKHH and "Preeto" from Mohabbatein.
...AND FRIENDS
So I made a mistake in one of my previous posts. Arjun Rampal IS in Ra.One. How exciting!
Other upcoming films are BREAK KE BAAD which stars Deepika Padukone and Imran Khan. I haven't decided what it is about the two of them that's similar, but they are similar and I hope good things happen for them with this film.
Somedays I find it ironic that I use the term "firangi."
Remember when Singh is King featured a song by Snoop Dogg and all the hooplah it caused, but then we heard the song and kind of laughed? And then remember when A. R. Rehman roped in Kylie Minogue for a song in Blue and everyone went buck wild until we heard the gibberish song-title, "Chiggy Wiggy" (still trying to figure out what that is exactly). Okay, so ready for this? Akon is the next to join the Bollywood bandwagon.
Mmmhm. Akon was roped in to feature a song in Anubhav Sinha's superhero film, Ra.One starring Shahrukh Khan and Kareena Kapoor. Vishal-Shekhar are the music directors of the film and claimed to have a great time recording with Akon. I am so super curious to hear this track. It's the most promising yet, but judging from previous Desi-American collaborations I'm not going to keep my expectations high. Oh, but it's sooo hard not to!
Okay, so while we're here talking about Ra.One, let me just give you the lowdown. It's supposed to be the second most expensive film made (Blue being the first most) and supposedly a science-fiction thriller. I bet Rakesh Roshan is pleased with himself for starting the "superhero" trend with Krrish. Arjun Rampal was supposed to play the villain. Man, that would've been awesome. Unfortunately he can't and was reportedly replaced by... Vivek Oberoi? This could work. I haven't decided how I feel about any of this superhero business yet. Thinking of SRK playing a superhero I'm instantly reminded of this hilarious scene from Om Shanti Om:
I can't decide if the title of this post is really cute or really perturbing?
Anyway, is this where life has come?! Actresses I watched as a child are now popping out children. Aah.
The very preggers Karishma Kapoor finally gave birth to a baby boy whom they've named "Kiaan." Hot. Baby Kiaan was born March 12, 2010. Lady Kapoor/Kapur? is already a mother to her five year old daughter, Samaira. I've gotta give it to the couple, they pick lovely names.
Whilst one just popped one out, we've got another fellow '90s actress waiting on deck. It's been reported that Kajol is pregnant with her second child. The Devgan couple has a seven year old daughter named Nysa. Ooh, so exotic.
So many little bolly babies running around, I wonder if any of them will follow their parent's footsteps. Shahrukh's got two kids he often fondly tweets about and Arjun Rampal has two daughters (can I get a collective "awww"). Oh I hope one of these kids continue the legacy, but the day that happens I will feel horrifically old.
I can't believe I let something like school get in the way of Bollywood! Sad days, man. I've been keeping up just never got around to gathering it and putting it here for your reading pleasure.
Of course I have missed a lot of major Bollywood moments i.e.: Bal Thackeray vs MNIK, MNIK meeting/exceeding expectations, Imran Khan officially engaged and um... my memory fails me. My point is, instead of trying to recap everything I'm just going to act like everything's already up to date.
Promos: Alright, I hate getting trailers/promos from unofficial people but the EROS account doesn't let you embed :( So, I'm thankful for all the sketchoes who steal and upload trailers. On that note, here's one of EROS Ent.'s latest ventures, PAATSHAALA, starring Shahid Kapoor, Ayesha Takia, Nana Patekar & Sunil Shetty. Ah yes, I too, feel a yawn coming on. It has nothing with the actors individually, but seeing that group just doesn't sound promising. Here's the theatrical trailer
Here's a song I keep hearing (about) from the film, Aye Khuda, it makes it look a little more promising. ClICK HERE TO LISTEN.
After having watched both... are you instantly reminded of School of Rock too? No worries, it is probably only inspired by it because this film is a commentary on the shortcomings of the Indian education system. I shan't lie, I'm curious to watch it but probably will when it's on Colors or Imagine in a couple of months. The film is set to release April 9, 2010.
Next we've got Sajid Khan's second directorial venture (first being Heyy Babyy)"HOUSEFULL" starring: Akshay Kumar, Riteish Deshmukh, Arjun Rampal, Deepika Padukone, Lara Dutta & Jiah Khan. It's like the A and A minus of Bollywood but I'm totally down with all six of them (yes, even Jiah Khan) this could make for a cheeky comedy... the trailer doesn't really disappoint, but you judge for yourself:
Riiight? That could be really cute. I love the last scene where Riteish goes nuts because he's all confused. It looks like, what my brothers and I call, "a Frasier situation." (That only makes sense if you watch(ed) Frasier... but basically it's where a whole bunch of misunderstandings occur, cleverly causing all kinds of hilarious drama.) Okay, one question though. Jiah Khan is actually from the UK so wouldn't it have made more sense to have her play Lara Dutta's role? Of course, they're actors they should be able to adapt to any role yada yada, but I mean really. I will admit though, seeing Jiah Khan in a "ghareloo" traditional role is going to be hella interesting. Btw, I have reason to believe that Akshay and/or Riteish's character(s) are into old-school songs/dance moves. We'll have to wait 'til April 30, 2010 to find out 'cause that's when the film releases. Also, on a semi-related note I forget how wonderfully handsome and stunning Arjun Rampal is... goooood God!!
Thirdly, we have pretty much the antithesis of Housefull aka a serious, artsy, targets real issues film titled THE GREAT INDIAN BUTTERFLY starring Sandhya Mridul, Aamir Bashir and Koel Puri. The film is supposed to release this weekend on March 26th. Won't say much else just watch the teaser:
... I love how they bleep out the word "sex." Yes, bleeping it out suddenly denies its existence. But that's another argument for another time. All I gotta say is that Sandhya Mridul is, like, the epitome of "bindaas." Anyway, all the other films had song promos and I skimmed through some and though some are worth showing I'm trying to keep this post "short" (for me, that is) but this song Thoda Thoda from The Great Indian Butterfly (okay guys, I keep chuckling as I type that...immature?) is really catchy: CLICK HERE TO LISTEN
Next up is JAANE KAHAN SE AAYI HAI (JKSAH) starring Riteish Deshmukh and Jacqueline Fernandez. A cute little love story about a human and... an alien. Interesting. I have a feeling it will have the same fate as Aladin without all the pre-release hype or maybe a little better. Here is the trailer... and again it's the Riteish moment at the end that makes me laugh (happens around the 1:49 mark):
This next one isn't for the easily disturbed. PANKH starring Bipasha Basu, Maradone Rebello and Mahesh Manjrekar. I kept finding this title all over indie-cinema art-lovin' blogs but never got around to watching the trailer until just now. Just watch...
P.S. Tellywood fans, the adorable Sanjeeda Sheikh is set to star in this film as well. A desperate attempt to get her foot into films or is she an art-film-savvy kind of girl? Only time will tell...
What an interesting premise. I'm pretty sure the film is aiming for a "we're all trying to figure ourselves out" message but what a unique approach to take. This makes me worry for Ahsaas Channa. Say who?? The adorable little "boy" from Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna and random commercials. Aha! Just as I had suspected. I discovered some (not too reliable) articles claiming Pankh was inspired by her story. I once read somewhere that her father and mother have separated over the issue. If I remember correctly it was the dad who was against it. Bichari, what a crazy childhood.
Friends:
I hardly ever have anything under my "and friends" categories, but today we do! So here's a quick update on poster-less/trailer-less films: Sonam Kapoor and Imran Khan just finished shooting for I Hate Luv Stories... like I mean JUST as in less than 24 hours ago. Karan Johar's Stepmom remake just began its last schedule of shooting. Apparently Kajol, Arjun and Kareena are shooting for a song. I'm trying really hard to place where in the story all three of them could have a fun song but failing miserably. Oh Bollywood, how I love thee. Don 2 is set to start shooting this summer/early September (that's by memory don't hold me to that). Dostana 2 is a 99% go. We know John and Abhi are back in but unsure as to whom the leading lady is. Mani Ratnam's Raavan is done filming and dubbing is almost complete as well. Kunal Kohli's Deepika-Imran starrer, Break Ke Baad, just began shooting in Delhi. Lastly, omfg! Vishal Bharadwaj recasted Priyanka Chopra in his next venture, tentatively titled "Saath Khoon Maaf." He got her to be a Marathi girl, I wonder what he'll make her do next? Here's to hopin' for great things for ALL of these films.
Shoot, I'm beat. More trailers to come soon, I swear it!
Spotted. Ranbir Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra in NYC shooting for Anjaana Anjaani. Just from the looks of it, their chemistry seems like it could potentially be a winner.
Have a gander.
Also spotted was Ranbir Kapoor at the Lakers-Knicks game and he managed to get a picture with Kobe Bryant. RK's wearing Knicks attire though, I wonder if that was awkward...
I haven't done my normal research so I only have two trailers to show you.
Uno being a MNIK song promo to "Tere Naina." I forgot the warm and fuzzy feeling I get upon seeing the Shajol chemistry. Eeeeeks!
A trailer for Atithi Tum Kab Jaago:
Okay so it looks like the typical Indian comedy, but look at the actors. All three are great. And I am ashamed/proud to admit I l-o-led when Aitithi was gargling.
Don't be confused. The National Awards that were recently announced are, not for the year 2009, but for 2008! Yeah... only slightly delayed.
Here is a list of most of the winners with a citation as to why they were chosen.
BEST FEATURE FILM: Antaheen (Bengali)- For lyrical blend of technical devices in the right proportion to depict shifting human relationships in an urban scenario. [P.S. the film's cast has a few names familiar to Bollywood: Sharmila Tagore and Rahul Bose]
INDIRA GANDHI AWARD FOR BEST FIRST FILM OF A DIRECTOR: A Wednesday (Hindi)- For slick and searing exposure of the tension below the normal rhythm of life and the angst of the common man in Mumbai. Loved this film, glad it received recognition.
BEST POPULAR FILM PROVIDING WHOLESOME ENTERTAINMENT: Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye! (Hindi)- For its intelligent treatment of an off-beat subject that makes it different within the popular format.
BEST DIRECTION: Bala for Naan Kadauul (Tamil)- For its powerful handling of an extraordinary subject that focuses on marginal characters with great convection.
BEST ACTOR:Upendra Limaye for Jogva (Marathi)- For his restrained yet powerful depiction of a complex character.
BEST ACTRESS: Priyanka Chopra for Fashion (Hindi)- For convincing portrayal of a whole range of emotions within a single character,
BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR: Arjun Rampal for Rock On (Hindi)- For his moving performance as a musician trying to rise above personal tragedy.
BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS:Kangana Ranaut for Fashion (Hindi)- For compelling portrayal of a down and out supper model that enriches the impact of the film.
BEST MALE PLAYBACK SINGER: Hariharan for the song Jeev Dangla Gungla Rangla (Marathi)- For his soulful rendition reflecting the agony of unfulfilled emotions.
BEST FEMALE PLAYBACK SINGER: Shreya Ghoshal for the song(s) Pherari Mon & Jeev Dangla Gungla Rangla (Bengali & Marathi)- for her wide ranging rendition of human emotions.
A lot of people are questioning the validity of these awards, because the jury is never really acknowledged and no one knows who the nominees are, so it's kind of sketch. But of all the film awards that go on in India (to my knowledge) these seem the closest to being somewhat valid and the closest reflection of the critics' choice.
So there's a lot of outrage as to why Hindi Films got so many nods (particularly Arjun Rampal, Priyanka Chopra, Kangana Ranaut and Roadside Romeo). I can't really sit here and argue which is deserving and which isn't because I'm not well versed with all the other regional films made. I read an insane amount of hateful comments (all on one website, though) about Priyanka Chopra's win being an undeserved one. Putting my die-hard fanaticism aside, I watched Fashion again yesterday. I really, truly, do think that was her career's best thus far (I think her best is yet to come). To be a hundred percent honest the first time I watched it I thought she did well, but it was the second time around that I really noticed what a fantastic job her performance was. I think a lot of people might be upset at her winning because she's a super mainstream-commercial-epitome-of-Bollywood actress who does films like "Pyaar Impossible." Or I might just sound like a crazed fan giving an irrational argument, I can't decide. Anyway, the last time the Best Actress Award was given to a Hindi film actress was in 2002 (Tabu for Chandni Bar) so, irrespective of what people have to say, props to PC! Arjun receiving Best Supporting, does make me wonder a teeny bit. He did a good job, no doubt. I even mentioned how I felt that he was underrated, but think about Paresh Rawal's performance in Mumbai Meri Jaan. I mean, there's no denying he owned the role in true Paresh fashion. Or even his role(s) in Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye! Speaking of Mumbair Meri Jaan, I do wish it was recognized a little more. For what? I don't know, but I do know it was a good film. Laastly, What did Kangana do differently in Fashion from any of her other films? Okay, that's just me hating... but I do kind of mean that.
The dissection of these awards could go on and on so I'm just going to end this, but before I do...
Can I get a "HELL YEAH!" for (my absolute absolute favorite) Shreya Ghoshal on her win for two songs?? This is her FOURTH National Award win and she's only twenty-five! [Btw, if you're curious she's won for: Bairi Piya (Devdas), Dheere Jalna (Paheli), and Yeh Ishq Hai (Jab We Met)]
Before I do this past weekends, there's one I forgot to post from last weekend that I think deserves a nod. Kruti Mahesh's performance in the "Dance ki Kasowti." Firstly, I think she's a strong contender to make it near, if not to, the finals. One of those "slowly but surely" situations. Secondly, a dance to a shayari/kavita fused with "Albela" from HDDCS what. a. concept. Terrance was right, there is no one but Kruti who would do justice to the performance. I adore this:
Onto this week. I really really liked almost every dance barring a few so I'm having a really hard time picking which ones I loved the most. First choice is obvious, our lady-love Shakti, who performed a hat trick and got a Grand Salute from Mithun for the third consecutive week. Something similar happened to Salman (last year's winner) then he had a dip, but came out a winner. Anyway the Shakti-Kunwar duo performed to "Aankhon ki Gustakhiyan" from HDDCS. Props to Terrance, he reinvents played out songs with his innovative choreography/themes. First Khuda Jaane and now this song.
Next performance is Binny's from Dance ki Kasowti. I'm going to secretly admit I didn't like her in the tryout rounds, but she's really proved herself through her performances once the actual show began. This act, in particular, won my respect for her. Whenever she's using the metal contraption (that moves beyond her control) there isn't a trace of trepidation to be seen on her face. Seee for yourself. Binny dancing to O Re Piya from Aaja Nachle:
Next is a typical Dharmesh act a.k.a amazing no words to be said, but I will say that I'm ready to see something new from him. I realize I'm probably going to be taken to the gallows for that comment. Don't get me wrong I REALLY REALLY enjoy his performances and he is, undoubtedly, one of the bests in his forte', but for the sake of versatility I would love to see something else. I don't doubt he could do it. Anyway here's his dance to "Churake Dil Mera" from Main Khiladi Tu Anari:
Laaastly, is another "slowly but surely" type: Parvez Rehmani. What a talented guy. His performance to "Beete Lamhe" from The Train was a completely different genre from his previous hip-hop performance to "Pag Ghungroo" I can't wait to see what he does next, until then watch this:
Music Ka Maha Muqabla
First up we've got the talented (and winner of Star Voice of India- chote Ustaads) Aishwarya Majmudar singing "Laga Chunari Mein Daag" it's really refreshing to hear it in a female voice. No embedding allowed so click here to watch :)
Next fave video was Sharib Sabri's performance to, his own creation, O Soniyo from Raaz 2. I can't get the entire video because the MKMM account uploads the episode, not by performances, but by time limit. Grr. So here's the second half of his preformance. You can still get a feel for why it was so amazing. I felt like "jhooming" while listening to this:
YOU can have a hand in voting for the Filmfare Awards. It doesn't specify, but my guess is that it's for the "popular" category, but who cares? You get to vote for Best Movie, Best Director, Best Actor and Best Actor Female.
1) 3 idiots 2) Anurag Kashyap for Dev D 3) Amir Khan 4) ... haven't decided yet. Too torn. I haven't even narrowed it down from this lengthy list: Konkona Sen Sharma (for Wake Up Sid) Priyanka Chopra (for Kaminey), Kareena Kapoor (for Kurbaan), Vidya Balan (for Paa) or Mahi Gill (for Dev D).
In all honesty I think my heart strings are tugging at Priyanka Chopra or Mahi Gill... maybe Kareena? I don't want to turn away from the other performances though. Like I said, I'm torn.
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