Shahid Kapoor and Sonam Kapoor On Filmfare Magazine Cover September 2011
Aug 31, 2011
The Dirty Picture Movie Theatrical Trailer Vidya Balan
Aug 29, 2011
Celina Jaitley Announced that she is already married with Peter Haag
Celina Jaitley Announced that she is already married with Peter Haag
Announces her marriage to her Dubai-based Austrian beau Peter Haag last month on her micro-blogging site
Celina Jaitly has announced her marriage to Dubai-based Austrian beau Peter Haag on her micro-blogging site. The starlet stated: With great pleasure I would like to announce my wedding with Peter Haag on the 23rd of last month at a 1,000-year-old monastery in Austria. We seek your blessings and good wishes, and apologise for the delayed announcement due to a family tragedy.She also posted a snapshot and said: Here is a picture of the most cherished moment of our lives. The picture features myself and my beloved husband, flanked by my dearest father-in-law to my left, and my brother-in-law to Peter's right.
The actress got engaged to the hotelier last year. A while back, she had denied rumours the two were already married, claiming that they had only had an engagement ceremony.
She had also stated that she would wed in Egypt (for which she is the cultural ambassador) in September, but now all that is history.
Announces her marriage to her Dubai-based Austrian beau Peter Haag last month on her micro-blogging site
Celina Jaitly has announced her marriage to Dubai-based Austrian beau Peter Haag on her micro-blogging site. The starlet stated: With great pleasure I would like to announce my wedding with Peter Haag on the 23rd of last month at a 1,000-year-old monastery in Austria. We seek your blessings and good wishes, and apologise for the delayed announcement due to a family tragedy.She also posted a snapshot and said: Here is a picture of the most cherished moment of our lives. The picture features myself and my beloved husband, flanked by my dearest father-in-law to my left, and my brother-in-law to Peter's right.
The actress got engaged to the hotelier last year. A while back, she had denied rumours the two were already married, claiming that they had only had an engagement ceremony.
She had also stated that she would wed in Egypt (for which she is the cultural ambassador) in September, but now all that is history.
Agneepath Theatrical Movie Trailer Hrithik Roshan
Bodyguard Movie Review, Review Of Bodyguard Movie
For most of us, the festive season is also about entertaining ourselves with a Bollywood biggie. Following two blockbuster Eid releases in the last two years, WANTED [2009] and DABANGG [2010], Salman Khan, the darling of the masses, unleashes yet another entertainer this Eid [this time, it coincides with Ganesh Chaturthi] -- BODYGUARD. The buzz around a Salman movie only got bigger this year, but the pertinent question is, will Salman deliver yet another festive hit with BODYGUARD? After having set such high standards for himself, will Salman surpass his previous achievements? Well, that should be easy to pull off taking into account [a] Salman's current form at the box-office and [b] The film has the merits to stand on its feet.
A section of the industry feels that Salman is limiting himself to hardcore masala films that defy logic. That he's slowly getting typecast in similar genre movies. Perhaps, you may assume that BODYGUARD is no exception. You may also assume that BODYGUARD is an extension of what we've witnessed in DABANGG and READY. But it is not so. Let me say, BODYGUARD is atypical Salman entertainer, yet there are moments [in its second hour specifically] that make it stand apart from all Salman starrers we have witnessed in the recent past, which includes WANTED, DABANGG and READY.
Let me elaborate. You expect Salman starrers to be larger-than-life, superhero films. You expect him to be the messiah of the masses. BODYGUARD presents Salman exactly the way we expect him to be presented, but, at the same time, the film brings back memories of the soft, romantic roles that Salman essayed in his initial films. What makes the film tick is that Salman and director Siddique have done something hatke within the limitations of the typical Bollywood formula, which, I am sure, should appeal to the Hindi movie buff abundantly.
Final word? BODYGUARD is a perfect family entertainer that compliments the spirit of the festive season.
When it comes to being punctual and doing his duties perfectly, Lovely Singh [Salman Khan] is unmatchable. Taking great pride in what he does, he spares no effort in giving his everything to his profession.
Lovely is summoned for an assignment of guarding Divya [Kareena Kapoor], the daughter of Sartaj Rana [Raj Babbar], a business tycoon. Lovely accompanies her to her campus, but ends up rubbing her the wrong way with his over-protective nature. She finds him to be a major obstacle in leading a regular campus life. To throw him off-track and get him out of the way, she comes up with a 'master plan' -- that of trapping him in a fake love affair. 'Once he's smitten by the girl of his dreams and is reveling in his new-found romance, he will leave us alone and we shall be free to do our own thing unhindered', says Divya to her friends.
She becomes an anonymous admirer of his and starts hounding him, expressing her 'feelings' in no uncertain terms. Lovely, however, proves to be a tough nut to crack and it takes quite a bit of doing from her side to penetrate his fort-like exterior. But once she succeeds in doing so, he transforms into a completely different person. Divya is triumphant and is all set to relish her regained freedom.
But things take an unexpected turn when she learns a few things about Lovely. Things that she could've never even imagined. And she soon finds herself trapped in a dilemma that she's unable to resolve. And with her, soon enough, Lovely finds himself trapped in a web of lies, trickery and deceit.
BODYGUARD is a simple-n-sweet tale of love that's engaging and relatable. At the same time, there's an unexpected twist in the pre-climax which shocks you completely. At no point does the director swerve from the main plot to provide a few extra laughs or thrills. Besides, this is a script which gives actors a lot of room to emote. And both Salman and Kareena seize the opportunity with both hands. More on that later!
Like I pointed out earlier, with BODYGUARD, Salman returns to a genre he started out with -- love story. Sure, BODYGUARD is a remake of a Malayalam film [remade in various South Indian languages as well], which has all the trappings of a perfect masala film -- action, music, comedy -- but BODYGUARD is essentially a love story at heart. Salman's intro may give an impression that it's a hardcore masala film, especially the song and fight sequence [frankly, the first half of the film is routine, with not much happening in the plot]. The director reserves the best for the second half, when it transforms into a love story. The action scene in the second half -- when Salman and Aditya Pancholi get into a fist fight -- is outstanding and will send his fans in raptures. Especially the moment when Salman's shirt rips off and his ripped muscles can be seen. The twist in the tale is a complete shocker. In fact, the penultimate reels of the film catches you complete unaware since you don't expect the story to change so dramatically.
Director Siddique, who has directed the same script for the third time, ensures that a simple story is narrated with simplicity and unfussiness. The twist in the tale comes at the right time, the songs are smartly integrated in the plotline and of course, there are ample comic moments, courtesy Rajat Rawail. The best thing about the film is that Siddique has made a very conscious effort to project Salman as a sensitive human being and not as a demigod, which is why the character becomes all the more relatable and endearing.
The soundtrack fits the genre of the film well. The title track at the very start [Salman's intro] will draw whistles and claps, while 'Teri Meri' is undoubtedly the pick of the lot. Soulfully rendered, this one's simply mesmerizing. Overall, it's a hit score from Himesh Reshammiya and Pritam. Sejal Shah's cinematography is appropriate. Vijayan's action sequences are stylish. Though not an action film, the action sequences do stand out.
Salman delivers one of his best performances in recent times. He makes magnificent use of his tough physique and soft face. Salman's fans are sure to lap this knockout performance in a big way. BODYGUARD would be incomplete without Kareena's contribution. Some roles are tailor-made for actresses who can deliver with aplomb and who better than Kareena to infuse life in a challenging character. She looks gorgeous [as always] and gives this character the dignity that it deserves. Raj Babbar is perfect. Mahesh Manjrekar is as usual. Aditya Pancholi, in a cameo, stages a welcome comeback. He's first-rate. Rajat Rawail is a joy to watch. He's truly funny. Hazel is quite good. Asrani and Vidya Sinha are okay in their respective parts.
On the whole, BODYGUARD works for varied reasons -- it has a simple, but captivating story with a dramatic twist in the tale, the chemistry between the lead actors is perfect and the music is well juxtaposed in the narrative. But its biggest USP is, without doubt, Salman Khan. He carries the film on his broad and brawny shoulders and that alone is the imperative reason for watching this film. BODYGUARD should emerge his third festive hit and fourth super-success at the ticket window. Expect a hurricane called BODYGUARD to strike at the box-office.
Ratings :
Bol Movie Review, Review Of Bol Movie
Shoaib Mansoor is one of the brightest names to come out of Pakistan. A few years ago, his film KHUDA KAY LIYE, which tackled the theme of terrorism, won wide acclaim and praise. The supremely talented storyteller is back with another bold and hard-hitting effort called BOL, which unmasks the dual standards prevalent in the society. In fact, we make tall claims about the rights of women and how they are equal to men, but if one looks around, especially in the under-developed countries, the disparity and inequality is for all to see.
Shoaib is indeed a courageous storyteller and this film must have sparked off a debate when it released in Pakistan several weeks ago. Like KHUDA KAY LIYE, BOL addresses the religious extremism in the neighboring country. It's about a daughter who stands up against her father, but most importantly, she dares to defy the age-old societal norms that treat women as lesser beings. The fact that a Pakistani film-maker has had the courage to tackle this theme makes it all the more commendable and praiseworthy.
BOL makes you peep into the lives of a family living in Pakistan, making us aware of the predicament, the anguish, their determination to survive against all odds. The family decides to solve their problems, but get into deeper troubles gradually. The struggle for life and death is what catches your eye.
BOL shocks and stuns also because of the sub-plots in the plotline and the twists and turns in the story. Of course, I wouldn't like to reveal the details and spoil the fun of watching this brilliant fare, but I'd like to add that one has rarely witnessed such themes on the big screen. It serves as a wake-up call for the orthodox types on both the sides of the border.
BOL has a striking story to tell. It's about a Hakeem Sahab's quest to have a son that sees his wife give birth to fourteen children, but only seven daughters survive. The eighth is a hermaphrodite, much to Hakeem's embarrassment. The film throws light on this family's problems and how each member of the family reacts to them, taking contradicting decisions and handling awkward situations.
BOL takes you on a roller coaster journey of emotions. A story that dares to bare the troubles of a certain society: the status of women in the neighboring country, the life of a hermaphrodite and of course, the quest for a male heir to keep the family name alive. Admiring BOL and not appreciating Shoaib would be doing a great disservice to the individualist film-maker. He deserves brownie points for not just choosing a controversial subject, but also handling it with aplomb. That's not all, for Shoaib has extracted wonderful performances from the principal cast.
Shoaib is a fantastic raconteur and you realize how talented he is at several points of the narrative. The difference of opinion between the eldest daughter [portrayed by Humaima Malik] and her father [Manzar Sehbai] is electrifying. You can feel an undercurrent of tension every time they share the screen space. Also, the start of the film, when Humaima begins to narrate her story and the way her story unfolds, is shocking.
On the flip side, the narrative dips, albeit sporadically, during Iman Ali's portions. Besides, a song filmed on her wasn't necessary in the first place and looks like a complete add-on. Even her performance isn't as invigorating as the remaining cast. Yet, despite the minor aberrations, BOL leaves you spellbound at the conclusion of the story.
BOL belongs to both Humaima Malik and Manzar Sehbai, who stand out with terrific portrayals. Both are splendid in their respective parts. Atif Aslam and Mahira Khan don't get much scope and they are strictly okay. In fact, Atif Aslam's screen space is limited to a few sequences and a song or two. Shafqat Cheema is exceptional; it's a character that works very well in the plot. Zaib Rehman [the mother] is most effective.
On the whole, BOL is a courageous film that has the guts to expose issues plaguing the society. It raises questions, challenges the age-old customs and mirrors a reality most convincingly. A brilliant film embellished with bravura performances. Not to be missed!
Ratings :
Aug 26, 2011
Yeh Dooriyan Movie Review, Review Of Yeh Dooriyan Movie
There's an interesting dialogue in YEH DOORIYAN that mirrors the mindset of a number of people. In one of the crucial moments of the story, Deepshikha tells her estranged boyfriend, Kaishav, that the society won't object if a woman marries a man twice her age, who also has kids from his previous marriage. But it would raise eyebrows if a man marries a woman twice his age. Well, that sets you thinking!
A divorcee with two kids. Is life tough? For a single mother, who wears the pants and calls the shots, plus manages home and kids, it's a challenge for sure. So what happens when she ends up falling in love with a much younger guy? How does the society react to a situation like that? That, in a nutshell, is the gist of YEH DOORIYAN.
YEH DOORIYAN may not be that perfect film that talks of life after divorce, but you can't deny that Deepshikha makes an effort to portray the reality with a lot of honesty. Though it's a first-time effort, the writing and even the handling of a few scenes does spring a pleasant surprise.
A woman in her 30s, Simmi [Deepshikha Nagpal] is strong, beautiful and a famous chorographer. A divorcee, she lives by herself with her two kids. Her friends and also her parents want her to settle down again.
Simmi meets a good-looking model Raj [Kaishav Arora], who joins her dance academy. Raj loves the kids and vice-versa. Gradually, Simmi too falls in love with him. But a section of the society doesn't like the idea of watching a bachelor involved with a divorcee with two kids and create obstacles in their story. Meanwhile, Simmi's ex husband [Inder Kumar] wants her back in his life.
Beginning a new relationship, after divorce, is not easy. You either become negative or you pick up pieces of your life and start afresh. Deepshikha shows exactly that in YEH DOORIYAN. This may be Deepshikha's debut film as a director, but she has handled a number of sequences realistically. For instance, the scene at the interval point, when the mother [Kunika] lands up and creates chaos in their lives, is very well executed. Also, the lengthy confrontation between Deepshikha and her estranged husband and even the climax are interesting. But there are rough edges too. Kaishav's reasons to stay away from Deepshikha aren't convincing. Similarly, his apology in the end doesn't cut ice either.
The film has a couple of songs, but the best one is reserved for the end credits. Cinematography is strictly okay.
Deepshikha enacts her part with utmost conviction. In fact, she has handled a number of tough sequences without going overboard. Kaishav has screen presence, but needs to work hard on dramatic sequences. Ayub Khan appears in a cameo. Inder Kumar does well. Achint Kaur is wasted. Ditto for Rajesh Khera. Chitrashi Rawat and Delnaaz Paul don't really get much to do. Kunika is superb in a small, but significant role.
On the whole, YEH DOORIYAN is a decent attempt.
Ratings :
Stand By Movie Review, Review Of Stand By Movie
Several interesting films on sports/sportsmen have been made the world over. In India, a film on sports -- cricket, football and hockey -- has caught the attention of viewers quite a few times, in the past. Most of them starred relative newcomers or unknown faces, but registered an impact nonetheless because the viewer was able to connect with not just the sport, but also the drama integrated in the plot. STANDBY does not have any mainstream actor or a recognizable star on the posters/billboards, but it has a riveting story to tell and that's what makes it a watchable experience.
STANDBY is helmed by eminent film-maker Sanjay Surkar, who has four National Awards to his credit. And he chooses sports as the topic. The dirty politics in the field of sports, to be specific. He also makes an attempt to highlight the fact that like cricket, football is an equally loved sport, but the high adrenalin game is ignored in our country, with cricket and cricketers being given more prominence. Also, the politicians' constant meddling in sports can hinder a sportsman's career. Surkar tells this in very clear words in STANDBY.
STANDBY is not just about sports, but also talks of friendship gone sour. How ambitions can create a rift and drive a wedge between thick pals. Though the film is a notch above the ordinary, with Surkar keeping the viewers glued to the proceedings in most parts, what acts as a roadblock, at places, are the songs that have been juxtaposed in the plotline. Frankly, STANDBY should have been a songless film; that would've only made it stand apart from films of its ilk.
STANDBY tells the story of Rahul [Adinath Kothare] and Shekhar [Siddharth Kher], two football players from Maharashtra, sharing a common passion -- football. It is their desire to represent India one day on the international stage. They get this opportunity to fulfill their dream when Maharashtra wins the prestigious Santosh Trophy after a decade.
But things take an ugly turn as Shekhar, the son of an influential industrialist J.P. Verma [Dalip Tahil] and the captain of Maharashtra team, is not selected in the main squad. The Selection Committee Chairman, who has close ties with J.P. Verma, and the Federation President select Shekhar as a standby striker with the hope of getting him in the team by removing one of the players. What follows is dirty politics.
Recall soccer flicks like SAAHEB, GOAL and the recent CYCLE KICK. STANDBY is about football as well and I must add, it's an earnest effort that stays with you after the movie has concluded. In fact, there are moments in the film [when the coach confronts the minister on two occasions] and also the finale [when the two friends battle it out on the field] that are brilliantly executed.
But, like I pointed out earlier, the songs could've been avoided. One of the songs -- on a chessboard set -- though imaginatively filmed, wasn't needed in the first place. Ditto for the item song on Yana Gupta. Also, the love story is half-baked and serves no purpose. Yet, despite the hiccups, one cannot deny the fact that Surkar has made an absorbing film. The on-field games as well as the games people play off the field are well handled.
STANDBY works also because of the fresh casting. Siddharth, seen earlier in TEEN PAATI, gets it right. He's got the attitude to carry off his part well. But it is Adinath Kothare who catches you with complete surprise in a challenging role that offers him ample scope to exhibit his range as an actor. Here's a talent to watch out for! Sachin Khedekar is a fine actor and proves his credentials yet again. Manish Chaudhary, as the coach, is top notch. In fact, he steals the show every time he appears on screen. His piercing eyes do a lot of talking in those silent moments. Dalip Tahil, Avtar Gill, Surendra Pal and Nagesh Bhosle are perfect for their parts.
On the whole, STANDBY is a fairly good effort that drives home a point. Regardless of how it fares at the box-office, you can't deny the fact that it's a well-made, sincere effort.
Ratings :
Shabri Movie Review, Review Of Shabri Movie
Earlier, those revolting against the negative forces would seek shelter in the jungles. But, over a period of time, more and more films with urban themes started getting made and the new poster boys of the have-nots were born and raised in slums and chawls.
SHABRI, directed by Lalit Marathe, tells the story of a gangster from the slums. The difference is, it's a woman this time. She's wronged, she's livid, she seeks vengeance. Come to think of it, I am sure, slums may have women as gang leaders, those who call the shots, but a movie on a woman gangster has never been attempted in Bollywood earlier. That makes SHABRI the first of its kind.
Though well executed with several interesting moments, the problem with SHABRI is that it comes too late in the day. I mean, haven't we had an overdose of gangster movies in rapid succession? Besides, SHABRI is atypical RGV flm [though it's directed by Lalit Marathe] in terms of mood, setting and even shot compositions.
SHABRI tells the story of an ordinary slum woman who takes to the world of crime. Working in a flour mill to support her family, Shabri [Isha Koppikar] struggles hard to make an honest living. Her life takes a dramatic turn when a cop puts Shabri's brother behind bars and tortures him, which results in his death. An uncontrollable rage seizes Shabri that sees her kill the cop, triggering off a mayhem of violence.
Director Lalit Marathe has categorically denied that the film is inspired by a real-life character, so that makes SHABRI a work of fiction. Hard-hitting and laced with several nail-biting episodes, SHABRI manages to keep your attention alive intermittently. But the film loses its fizz in the second hour, when a top cop [Zakir Hussain] starts the investigations. The problem with his character is that he's not doing anything to put an end to Shabri or the underworld. Moreover, the pacing also drops at this point.
The setting is real and so are the performances. Isha Koppikar delivers the most striking performance of her career. She's dynamic! Raj Arjun is highly competent and his acting skills come to the fore in several scenes. Pradeep Rawat is excellent, striking terror every time he appears on screen. Zakir Hussain suffers due to an ill-conceived role.
On the whole, SHABRI comes too late in the day. Sure, it holds your attention in parts, but there's no novelty whatsoever in its plot.
Ratings :
First Look : Vidya Balan Upcoming Movie The Dirty Picture Poster
First Look : Vidya Balan Upcoming Movie The Dirty Picture Poster. Vidya Balan portrays the southern siren Silk Smitha in the movie. The movie also stars Naseeruddin Shah, Emraan Hashmi and Tusshar Kapoor.
Ranbir Kapoor N Priyanka Chopra On Upcoming Movie Barfee Sets
Ranbir Kapoor N Priyanka Chopra On Upcoming Movie Barfee Sets
After starring together in Anjaana Anjaani, the duo of Ranbir Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra will next be seen together in Anurag Basu's Barfee. Besides Ranbir and Priyanka, the film also stars South sensation Ileana D'Cruz.
Ranbir will be essaying the role of a happy-go-lucky deaf-mute character in the film who goes by the name Murphy. Since he is mute, he mumbles his name as Barfee and hence the title. Priyanka Chopra meanwhile plays the role of a mentally challenged girl. To get her act right, reports have it that she has even met up with many people suffering from the mental condition.
Priyanka with a bob cut in a light maroon printed top and Ranbir sporting a pencil thin moustache shot for some important scenes recently amidst a lot of crowd in one of the many by-lanes of Kolkata. From the looks of it, the actors seemed at ease in spite of shooting amidst the aam-junta.
Barfee, a UTV production, releases in January 2012.
After starring together in Anjaana Anjaani, the duo of Ranbir Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra will next be seen together in Anurag Basu's Barfee. Besides Ranbir and Priyanka, the film also stars South sensation Ileana D'Cruz.
Ranbir will be essaying the role of a happy-go-lucky deaf-mute character in the film who goes by the name Murphy. Since he is mute, he mumbles his name as Barfee and hence the title. Priyanka Chopra meanwhile plays the role of a mentally challenged girl. To get her act right, reports have it that she has even met up with many people suffering from the mental condition.
Priyanka with a bob cut in a light maroon printed top and Ranbir sporting a pencil thin moustache shot for some important scenes recently amidst a lot of crowd in one of the many by-lanes of Kolkata. From the looks of it, the actors seemed at ease in spite of shooting amidst the aam-junta.
Barfee, a UTV production, releases in January 2012.
Aug 25, 2011
First Look: Imran Kareena Upcoming Movie Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu
First Look: Imran Kareena Upcoming Movie Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu
Post Imran Khan's path breaking film Delhi Belly, the performance bar for the actor has been set pretty high. With YRF's Mere Brother Ki Dulhan set to release soon, the first look of Imran and Kareena starrer for Dharma Productions is out.
The Karan Johar and UTV Motion Pictures' film Short Term Shaadi, starring Kareena Kapoor and Imran Khan, is now re-titled as Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu.
Clarifying this change, Karan says that Short Term Shaadi was just a working title that attached itself to this film through the making. Neither director Shakun Batra nor Karan was happy with it from the start. Hence, the change to Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu.
Besides this, KJo adds that the new title fits this rom-com perfectly well. "Short Term Shaadi wasn't giving the right vibe. This story is about the conversational chemistry between these two very beautiful people. EMAET is a witty, feel-good, slice-of-life comedy and it conveys the energies of this couple.''
Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu will release on February 10, 2012 and KJo recommends it as the perfect Valentine's Day flick.
Post Imran Khan's path breaking film Delhi Belly, the performance bar for the actor has been set pretty high. With YRF's Mere Brother Ki Dulhan set to release soon, the first look of Imran and Kareena starrer for Dharma Productions is out.
The Karan Johar and UTV Motion Pictures' film Short Term Shaadi, starring Kareena Kapoor and Imran Khan, is now re-titled as Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu.
Clarifying this change, Karan says that Short Term Shaadi was just a working title that attached itself to this film through the making. Neither director Shakun Batra nor Karan was happy with it from the start. Hence, the change to Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu.
Besides this, KJo adds that the new title fits this rom-com perfectly well. "Short Term Shaadi wasn't giving the right vibe. This story is about the conversational chemistry between these two very beautiful people. EMAET is a witty, feel-good, slice-of-life comedy and it conveys the energies of this couple.''
Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu will release on February 10, 2012 and KJo recommends it as the perfect Valentine's Day flick.
First Look : Akshay Kumar Upcoming Movie Rowdy Rathore Poster
First Look : Akshay Kumar Upcoming Movie Rowdy Rathore Poster
Cast: Akshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha
Rowdy Rathore is an upcoming Bollywood action film directed by Prabhu Deva starring Akshay Kumar and Sonakshi Sinha in the lead roles.
Produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Ronnie Screwvala, the filming started on 10 August 2011. It is the third remake of the Telugu film Vikramarkudu.
Synopsis
Rowdy (Akshay Kumar) is a small-time thief and crook who is crazy about acts of daredevilry. One day, he gets the shock of his life when a young girl turns up and claims him to be her father.
After recovering from the stunning blow, he slowly starts to find out the truth behind the claim. It turns out that the girl is the daughter of IPS Police officer Vikram Singh Rathore (also Akshay Kumar).
Vikram is the long-lost twin of Rowdy. After the two meet, in an excitement shock, Vikram Rathore is confronted by underworld-gangsters who then murder him right infront of Rowdy, and therefore Rowdy has to fill into Vikram's position in the police force aswell as his home, and find out who his murderers' were and why they killed him.
Cast: Akshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha
Rowdy Rathore is an upcoming Bollywood action film directed by Prabhu Deva starring Akshay Kumar and Sonakshi Sinha in the lead roles.
Produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Ronnie Screwvala, the filming started on 10 August 2011. It is the third remake of the Telugu film Vikramarkudu.
Synopsis
Rowdy (Akshay Kumar) is a small-time thief and crook who is crazy about acts of daredevilry. One day, he gets the shock of his life when a young girl turns up and claims him to be her father.
After recovering from the stunning blow, he slowly starts to find out the truth behind the claim. It turns out that the girl is the daughter of IPS Police officer Vikram Singh Rathore (also Akshay Kumar).
Vikram is the long-lost twin of Rowdy. After the two meet, in an excitement shock, Vikram Rathore is confronted by underworld-gangsters who then murder him right infront of Rowdy, and therefore Rowdy has to fill into Vikram's position in the police force aswell as his home, and find out who his murderers' were and why they killed him.
Not A Love Story Movie Review By Taran Adarsh
Ramgopal Varma is controversy's favorite child. And it's not the first time that there is so much of a hullabaloo over an RGV film. Be it his choice of subjects or his tweets, RGV is truly distinct, known for walking the untrodden path and speaking his mind. Like him or not, you can't disregard him. This time around, the maverick film-maker chooses to narrate a crime story on an extremely contentious theme, a heinous murder.
In 2008, the nation woke up to a dreadful, deplorable news -- a man was murdered and his body was chopped into pieces in suburban Mumbai. It was too horrific an incident to be forgotten. When one thinks of it, one wonders what could've provoked this brutal deed.
It is evident at the very outset that RGV's NOT A LOVE STORY is inspired by the gruesome murder, the savage deed. It also raises a very pertinent question: How could something so brutal happen in a city like Mumbai? The film also drives home a point of view that no one is intrinsically bad and that a murder of this kind can also happen because of irrepressible emotions, in a fit of rage, at the spur of the moment. There are some compelling circumstances that force people to commit such heinous crimes.
Though RGV borrows from real life, the differences cannot be overlooked either. The protagonist in the film is not a South Indian actress and her fiancé is not a Navy Lieutenant. Also, the film is just an interpretation of what could have occurred and not a reporting on what actually transpired. The drama is transfixing and even if you aren't too aware of what may've occurred in real life, the film tries to recreate the events that changed the lives of three people. What makes the goings-on even more interesting is the fact that RGV maintains a neutral stand while narrating the story, not tilting towards any particular character or giving his point of view on the film.
In 2008, an aspiring actress [Mahie Gill] was doing the rounds of the Mumbai film industry. In the course of her efforts, she met a person [Ajay Gehi] who lent her a helping hand. One fateful morning her boyfriend [Deepak Dobriyal] landed up when she was with that man in her apartment. What followed thereafter shook the entire nation.
In order to remain as real as possible, RGV has filmed the movie in the same building, which gives the viewer an idea about how the dastardly act was committed in actuality in the apartment. The scenes of the murder and its aftermath give you goose pimples. The murder and what transpired thereafter, including Dobriyal chopping the body into pieces and the accused couple making out in front of the dead body, have also been incorporated.
The second hour -- the investigations -- is captivating as well. At this juncture, a number of fresh characters are introduced: the cops, the lawyers, the hapless parents of the deceased. Not once is there a slack moment and RGV succeeds in keeping your attention arrested till the finale.
RGV is an accomplished storyteller and there's no denying that NOT A LOVE STORY would rank amongst his best works. The film leaves you shocked, stunned and aghast and at the same time, you feel sad for the lovers in the final sequence, when Mahie pours her heart out to Dobriyal. Though the film depicts a brutal crime, there's hardly any blood [except when the guy is murdered] or gore here. The screenplay [writer: Rohit G. Banawlikar] is captivating and RGV's execution of the material, spellbinding.
NOT A LOVE STORY stands out in the technical department. The sound design is perfect, while the camerawork [shot in natural light] is eye-catching. In fact, the zany camera movements may bother you initially, but you become a participant in the goings-on subsequently. Also, there are times when the constant shaking of the camera compliments the tension-filled atmosphere depicted in the film. But the highest praise, after RGV, should be reserved for Sandeep Chowta's background score. It's electrifying and augments the impact of a well-told story. The movie has two songs, one of which is the revisited version of the song 'Rangeela Re' from RGV's RANGEELA, which is cleverly integrated in the narrative.
The intensity of emotions between the couple is very high in NOT A LOVE STORY. Both Deepak Dobriyal and Mahie Gill vie for top honors. Mahie gives it all to this rather complex role and emerges trumps. Though she delivers a stunning performance all through, her work in the second hour, when the investigations begin, prove what a fine talent she is. Deepak carries the look of a maniac and also a possessive lover very well. In fact, the actor gets few lines to deliver and expresses the varied emotions through his eyes/expressions.
Ajay Gehi is first-rate in a brief role. Zakir Hussain is excellent, yet again. In fact, the actor surprises you in film after film. The film has a number of talented actors essaying significant roles like Neil Bhoopalam, Darshan Jariwala, Ganesh Yadav and late Rasika Joshi and each one stands out in their respective parts.
On the whole, NOT A LOVE STORY shocks and stuns, which only goes to prove how impactful the film is. But, most importantly, it reiterates the age-old adage, anger is short-lived madness and how things can change for worse at the spur of the moment. It must be said that NOT A LOVE STORY is amongst Ramgopal Varma's best works. An intense mindbender, NOT A LOVE STORY is a wonderful illustration of how the accurate approach to storytelling can levitate a film. Try not to miss this one!
Ratings :
Sahi Dhandhe Galat Bande Movie Review By Taran Adarsh
The clash between development and displacement has, most of the times, resulted in controversy. I strongly feel that if there was an issue that was crying out for a movie of its own, it's the acquisition of land in the name of development. The incident makes news, but dies a premature death most of the times. Lessons are learnt but discarded with speed. The sufferers are unheard and uncared for...
SAHI DHANDHE GALAT BANDE brings back memories of two films which address the issue of land acquisition, though, I wish to add, the stories of each of these films are different and distinct...
THE CASTLE, a 1997 Australian film, was about a family living near the airport in Melbourne. It is forced to leave its home, since the government and airport authorities have plans for the extension of the airport. How they fight to remain in their house, taking their case as far as the High Court, forms the crux of the story.
PUTTAKKANA HIGHWAY, a Kannada film, narrates the story of farmers who will have to give up their land for the construction of a highway. Puttakka, the protagonist, is also about to lose her land. But not the one to give up easily, she puts up a brave fight against the corrupt system. This film bagged the prestigious National Award in the best regional film category.
SAHI DHANDHE GALAT BANDE also tries to capture the ramifications of displacement and development on people and focuses our attention to this issue. It comes with a new grammar - written and directed by actor Parvin Dabas - who puts his distinctive contemporary signature on this present-day story. It is what I would call a socially responsible, thought-provoking and stimulating cinema that has scope for discussion and debates. The first-time film-maker succeeds in his attempt to focus on and draw our attention to the burning issue, but at the same time, it's not a 'dry film'. The first-time director ensures that the film has its share of entertaining moments that the viewer thirsts for in film after film.
SAHI DHANDHE GALAT BANDE is about a gang of four friends Rajbir [Parvin Dabas], Sexy [Vansh Bhardwaj], Ambani [Ashish Nayyar] and Doctor [Kuldeep Ruhil], who are given a job which will give them enough money to make all their dreams come true, but to achieve the same they will have to go against their conscience and the village to which they belong. Goading them on to make this job successful is their boss, Fauji [Sharat Saxena], who stands to gain the most from the job's success and realize his dreams of becoming a politician.
On the road to completing this mission, they come across a multitude of crazy characters which includes a guru and his wrestlers, a Chief Minister [Kiron Joneja Sippy], a scheming businessman [Anupam Kher], the leader of the villagers [Yashpal Sharma], an angry aunt [Neena Kulkarni], a college-going athlete [Udit Khurana] and a photographer girlfriend [Tena Desae].
SAHI DHANDHE GALAT BANDE highlights the plight of land owners who are told to sacrifice their land in the name of development. The movie not only highlights the issue, but also brings to light the nexus between politicians and industrialists. The story depicts the frantic efforts of land owners on one hand and the exploitation and manipulation by industrialists on the other, who use their clout and finances to acquire the land.
Like PEEPLI [LIVE], which drew our attention to farmers' suicide and the consequent media and political response, Parvin Dabas chooses to highlight the plight of farmers/land owners who are facing the consequences of dislodgment and expansion. The only thing that I don't agree to is the conclusion to the story. The fight for right gets mellowed by a rather filmy and formulaic conclusion, when the minister's son joins the protest. Are issues resolved so easily? A film depicting a reality should've had a more persuasive conclusion.
On the face of it, one may draw parallels with KHOSLA KA GHOSLA, which, incidentally, starred Anupam Kher, Kiron Joneja Sippy and Parvin Dabas. Also, like KHOSLA KA GHOSLA, this one's set in North India. But the fact is Parvin Dabas, the director, has his individualistic style of narrating a story. As for the soundtrack, the songs are smartly integrated in the narrative, while the locations add a lot of authenticity to the subject.
Performances by the lead actors carry the film farther. The four pals, enacted by Parvin Dabas, Vansh Bhardwaj, Ashish Nayyar and Kuldeep Ruhil, are perfect for their parts. In fact, Parvin avoids being the character in focus despite being the man behind the project. Kiron Joneja Sippy is first-rate, Anupam Kher gets minimal scope, Sharat Saxena is wonderful, Yashpal Sharma is efficient, Neena Kulkarni excels, Vipin Sharma is good, while Udit Khurana is perfect and Tena Desae adequate.
On the whole, SAHI DHANDHE GALAT BANDE is what I would call a topical, socially responsible, thought-provoking cinema. A film that has scope for discussions and debates. It addresses, quite successfully at that, an existing critical issue that the country faces -- the effect of dislodgment of people. A decent watch!
Ratings :
Chatur Singh Two Star Movie Review By Taran Adarsh
At the cost of repeating myself, I wish to state that comedy is serious business and making people laugh is a herculean task. Not all directors can pull it off. Also, not all actors have the impeccable timing to carry off comic roles with flourish.
In the recent past, a lot many films that defied logic worked big time with viewers of all ages because they were rich as far as the entertainment quotient was concerned. CHATUR SINGH TWO STARS throws logic to the winds. It tries hard to tickle your funny bone. The on-screen characters -- most of them -- indulge in buffoonery. There's a conscious effort to pack one joke after another. Yet, CHATUR SINGH TWO STARS doesn't work as a film. That's because the writing is ridiculously silly and the jokes are bland and unappealing.
He knows everything about nothing... and he's on a mission to destroy himself! He is Chatur Singh 2 Star [Sanjay Dutt], an infamous member of the Mumbai Police Department who, in his career, has been most successful at botching up cases and making a fool of himself. Inspite of being a disgrace to the team, Chatur Singh has just been handed the biggest case in the department's history and of course, this is the perfect chance for him to prove everyone why he is the best officer they have.
Chatur Singh takes off on the secret mission to South Africa. His bumbling mannerisms, clumsiness and of course, his 'super intelligence' sets off a string of events which lead to more chaos and confusion than anyone could have ever imagined.
CHATUR SINGH TWO STARS is based on a novel, but it also has influences of THE PINK PANTHER. The film delivers some genuine laughs here and there, but there's never that prominent sequence/s that have the audience rolling in the aisles. Also, this is nowhere funny to THE PINK PANTHER or even those films that Sanju has been part of.
Ajay Chandhok is saddled with an outrageously childish script. While we viewers have witnessed the most ridiculous films in the recent past, this one hits a new low when it comes to writing. The escapades in South Africa and the climax in particular are so childish that it's unbelievable how they were conceived in the first place. The soundtrack is equally monotonous. The sole silver lining is the cinematography and some striking locales of Cape Town.
Sanju's mannerisms are not just over the top, but also cross all lines of buffoonery. Ameesha looks out of place in a comic caper. Anupam Kher, Satish Kaushik and Suresh Menon make a sincere attempt to get their characters right. Shakti Kapoor does his villainous act yet again. Gulshan Grover has a brief role, while Rati Agnihotri looks far from convincing. Murli Sharma, Vishwajeet Pradhan and Ganesh Yadav are mere gap fillers.
On the whole, CHATUR SINGH TWO STARS tries hard to make you laugh, but fails in its endeavour.
Ratings :
Aug 16, 2011
