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REVIEW MOVIE CALENDAR
Bol Bachchan Director: Rohit Shetty
Leave your brains at home!
13 JULY 2012
by Bhawana Somaaya
20 JULY 2012
Story: Abbas Ali and his sister Sanya are fighting a property case with their relatives and the court moves the judgment in their relative’s favour. On the advice of a well wishing uncle, the siblings move out of Delhi in search of livelihood to a small town Ranakpur. In Ranakpur through a series of coincidences Abbas unwittingly gets embroiled in circumstances where he is
Mere Dost Picture Abhi Baki Hai I Am 24 Gattu Jalpari – The Desert Mermaid The Dark Knight Rises (Eng. & Hindi) Challo Driver
forced to lie about his identity. Employed as a supervisor by Ranakpur’s feudal lord Prithvisingh Raghuvanshi, Abbas lives in fear of being exposed but cannot muster courage to tell his plight to his volatile master. What Works: There is madness to the film and it is inoffensive. All characters, situations and emotions are exaggerated and there are no pretensions about it. The screenplay is a series of action and comedy items and the dialogues outrageously crazy! There is chemistry between Ajay Devgan and Abhishek Bachchan and it is a treat to watch their well synchronized action sequences as they jump into cars and mansions breaking bones and glass doors. Writers Sajid Farhad serve a bhelpuri concocted out of the English language and prepare scrambled eggs out of Hindi language to evoke laughter and they succeed. Music directors Himesh Reshamiya and Ajay Atul go berserk and colour to the crazy banquet. What Doesn’t: The film and the characters are predictable and there are no surprises in content or technique. The narrative
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FORTHCOMING RELEASES
BLOCKBUSTER JULY 7, 2012
Cocktail Aliens 2012 (Dubbed)
gets rhetoric; the action sequences after Singham appear childlike andAmar Mohile’s background score breaks your eardrums. The characters take too long to confess so the climax drags unnecessarily. There is absolutely nothing to take home.
27 JULY 2012
Performances: Ajay Devgan as the large hearted, simpleton obsessed with speaking faulty English is sincere and engaging. Abhishek Bachchan cast in a sort of double role effortlessly transforms from macho Abhishek B (his name in the film) to effeminate Abbas Ali punctuating his dialogue with ‘Na dhin dhinna!’ His dance medley to entertain Prithvisingh has you in splits!! Supporting actors Neeraj Vora and Archana Puran Singh (also in double role as Zora and Madhmati) have better roles than the two heroines Asin and Prcahi Desai who are most of the time relegated to the background.
Jism 2 Yeh Jo Mohabbat Hai Krishna Aur Kans (Animation) Total Recall (Dubbed)
Directors Cut: Rohit Shetty has, from his debut film, flirting with comedy and action genres. With Bol Bachchan, Shetty proves that he can and will balance all kinds of films in his kitty. His target is box-office and unabashedly combines all the ingredients of a blockbuster, as a result the script explores every issue under the sun be it urbanrural, sibling-parent, job-marriage, items-jigs, English –transgender, Hindu –Muslim, double roles and double entendre. The opening song of the film where Amitabh Bachchan makes a guest appearance and emerges from an egg shell speaking breathlessly a la Anthony Gonsalves in Amar Akbar Anthony and his explanation of Bol Bachchcan is the USP of the film.
Kyaa Super Kool Hain Hum Aalaaap Mumbai Cutting Bhedion Ka Aatank (Dub.) Nagina Club (Dub.) 3 AUG. 2012
10 AUG. 2012 Gangs Of Wasseypur 2 Main Krishna Hoon (animation) Humse Na Takrana (Dub.) 15 AUG. 2012 Ek Tha Tiger 5 Ghantey Mein 5 Crore 17 AUG. 2012 The Expendables 2 (Eng. & Hindi) 24 AUG. 2012 Chasme Baddoor remake Shirin Farhad Ki Toh Nikal Padi 31 AUGUST 2012 Joker Dinosaur V/s Dinosaur (Eng. & Hindi) 7 SEPT. 2012 Raaz 3 Ata Pata Lapata Jeena Hai Toh Thok Daal 14 SEPT. 2012 Barfi! 21 SEPT. 2012 Heroine English Vinglish Ishkq In Paris 28 SEPT. 2012 Oh! My God Kamaal Dhamaal Malamaal
PUBLISHER'S PAGE
Landmark Beijing Treaty on Audiovisual Performances (Part 1)
T. P. Aggarwal PUBLISHER
F
Illustration by Pradeep Nayak
or Blockbuster’s first issue, I am a new treaty for audiovisual performers was thrilled to write about the landmark successfully concluded on June 26, 2012 as 2012 Beijing Treaty that was finalized negotiators from WIPO’s member states signed at the WIPO Diplomatic Conference the Beijing Treaty on Audiovisual Performances– on the Protection of Audiovisual so-named in recognition of the city that hosted Performances. I was there in China in the capacity the final round of negotiations. The new treaty of the First Vice-President of FIAPF (International brings audiovisual performers into the fold Federation of Film Producers Associations) of the international copyright framework in a from June 20 to 26, and would like to share my comprehensive way, for the first time. experiences through the hectic, yet wonderful The Beijing Treaty on Audiovisual six days. Performances (BTAP) will strengthen the First, I would like to give a background economic rights of film actors and other of WIPO. The World Intellectual Property performers and could provide extra income from Organization (WIPO) is the United Nations their work. It will potentially enable performers agency dedicated to the use of intellectual property to share proceeds with producers for revenues (patents, copyright, trademarks, designs, etc.) as a generated internationally by audiovisual means of stimulating innovation and creativity. productions. It will also grant performers moral The Diplomatic Conference was attended by rights to prevent lack of attribution or distortion of 156 member states, six intergovernmental their performances. organizations and 45 non-governmental organizations. This is the highest level of participation ever at a WIPO Diplomatic (To be continued next week…) Conference! TP Aggarwal, Managing Director of Star Entertainment There were small and big countries—countries Worldwide Pvt. Ltd, is in the business of media & entertainment and education. He is the First Vice-President with a thriving film industry like ours and also of FIAPF (International Federation of Film Producers countries where hardly a few films are released Associations), President of IMPPA, Ex-President of FFI, in a year. I was pleasantly surprised to see the Chairman of Film Makers Combine and President of CMTPP representation of Nepal and Bangladesh. (Chamber of Movie & TV Programme Producers). The most positive thing about the conference was that all the OUT OF THE BOX [OFFICE] countries used to have their meetings and present their statements separately, but we would have breakfast together every day. It was interesting to know the points of views of people from various countries. The diplomatic conference to finalize
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COVER STORY Rohit Shetty
“There will be more action in Bol Bachchan than in Singham”
A
fter last year’s blockbuster film Singham director Rohit Shetty is back with Bol Bachchan, an action-comedy starring Ajay Devgn, Abhishek Bachchan, Asin and Prachi Desai. Blockbuster brings a tête-à-tête with the hugely successful director.
Is it true that Bol Bachchan is inspired by 1979’s Golmaal? We have just used the core idea of 1979’s Golmaal flick, and apart from that nothing is similar between Bol Bachchan and Golmaal. But yes, we did buy the rights of the original Golmaal film because Ajay (Devgn) and I thought that it would be ethical to buy its rights even if we were not adapting the film entirely. The audience seems to be very excited about Bol Bachchan, considering the response it got online- Comment I am obliged that the public has liked the trailer and the songs of Bol Bachchan, but it’s very important that the film is also liked by them.We are hoping that the hard work which my team has put in the making of this film is appreciated by the audience. How is it working with the same team on many films? It’s wonderful. Actually for the last six films I am working with the same team,
so we all are like a family now. All of our shooting schedules are like a family outing for all of us. We have fun and play pranks on each other; even our spot-boy is not spared! Tell us more about Bol Bachchan… I have heard people referring to Bol Bachchan as a comedy film, but I’ll say that it’s an action-comedy. In fact, there will be more action in Bol Bachchan than in Singham! Even after being the only director to have two 100-crore grossing films to your credit, you do not seem to be a favorite among the critics. Comment… All I can say is that I make movies that cater to my audience’s taste, which entertains them, and about which I am 100 percent confident. Earlier I used to
feel humiliated about my films receiving flak from the critics but now it doesn’t bother me. If someone watches my film in a theater and comes out with the satisfaction that it was a total paisa vasool film, then my work is done. And if I have two 100-crore films, then obviously the masses have loved my work. Tell us more about your upcoming film Chennai Express? Chennai Express is a large- canvas film, which I am doing with Shah Rukh Khan. And contrary to the rumors doing the rounds about whether Deepika Padukone or Kareena Kapoor is going to be the heroine of Chennai Express, let me tell you that we haven’t decided the female lead yet. Right now I am busy with Bol Bachchan, so once it’s released then Shah Rukh Khan and I will sit together and finalize our heroine. After Bol Bachchan is Golmaal 4 in the pipeline? Lots of people have asked me when Golmaal 4 is hitting the theaters, but after Bol Bachchan, I am busy with Chennai Express. Actually I am still looking out for an apt script to take forward the Golmaal brand. The day when I have a script about which I am 100 per cent confident, I’ll definitely announce Golmaal 4.
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COVER STORY Prachi Desai
I had to give 27 retakes for my first shot! T
aking a big leap from television to silver screen and delivering hits like Rock On!! and Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai, Prachi has come a very long way since her television days. With Bol Bachchan, she makes her foray into the comedy genre. Blockbuster brings you a tete-a-tete with the bubbly actress on her experience of working in Bol Bachchan, and her upcoming projects. by Pooja Sharma How was your experience working with Rohit Shetty for the first time? Before signing Bol Bachchan I had only watched Rohit on Comedy Circus. He was very cool and seemed to be enjoying himself. But after starting the shoot for the film, I came to know that what I had perceived was completely different. On sets he can be quite serious but at the same time he is so much fun. I think what makes it easier for him is that he has worked with the same team for a long time and they are like family for him. They are all on the same page. If someone was playing a prank on me, everybody knew what was going on, except me (Laughs). So what pranks did they play on you? On my very first day of the shoot in Jaipur, I had this really long dialogue to say. The rest of the crew had been shooting there for some time, and only I was joining them later. My first scene was with Abhishek, in which I was supposed to be extremely angry with him. It took us around 27 takes to complete this simple shot because Abhishek used to start laughing. I kept asking, “Is something wrong with him or have I done something wrong? What was it?” Only some time back, Abhishek
told me that he was instructed by Rohit very strictly, “Make her nervous, just laugh at every shot and just don’t let her say any of her dialogues.” For me, it was completely like being ragged by seniors. Was working on Bol Bachchan a different experience for you, considering the fact that this is your first comedy flick? Yeah absolutely, actually apart from me every one in the cast— Asin, Ajay and Abhishek has done a comedy film before. So for me, it was very alien. I have done serious films before, it was like suddenly being thrown into a mad house. It took me a week to adjust! But as far as work was concerned, I think Rohit Shetty is a director with a magic wand. He makes everything so fabulously entertaining!
Describe your co-stars Ajay and Abhishek and what was it like working with them? Ajay and Abhishek are completely contrasting personalities. Talking about Ajay, onscreen he has a completely different aura and as a person he is very calm, very quiet. He loves his profession and that’s the reason I respect him a lot. On the other hand, Abhishek is like a house on fire! He loves to enjoy himself no matter whether it’s a serious scene, comic scene or a dance sequence. When he is around it’s a totally different environment. And I really loved working with both of them.
What is your character in Bol Bachchan all about? I play an educated and modern girl who is Ajay’s sister. My character is spunky and I am a pampered girl, but at the same time, I am very scared of my brother.
So what are you working on next? I have my next film titled I, Me aur Main in which I am paired opposite John Abraham. I am excited about this film because unlike my previous roles, I’ll be playing my age in this film.
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COVER STORY Ajay Devgn
Viewers want to get entertained, not educated
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jay Devgn has had an eventful two decades with years of back-to back flops and then celebrating one success after the other. One of the few actors who has defied genres—he has seen success in action, comedy and drama—Devgn is now back with Bol Bachchan, which he calls an “action comedy”. by Sonia Chopra As a producer, it’s applaudable that despite Bol Bachchan not being an exact adaptation of Golmaal, you still went ahead and bought the official rights… I believe if you’re inspired by a film, it’s only ethical you buy the rights. It’s like paying a tribute. You have to set an example. We have been in the industry since 20 years, if we don’t do it, how can we expect the others to follow? What are the similarities of your character with Utpal Dutt’s role in Golmaal? Is it true that you had to gain weight for the role? As far as my character is concerned, there is no similarity. When you adapt an old film, most of it changes eventually. Only the core idea remains the same. I play a very funny character—he’s a landlord and wrestler from a small town who insists on speaking in English, even though he doesn’t know the language. But since everyone is scared of him, he is never corrected. In Singham, I was very lean, so I did have to gain weight for Bol Bachchan. Pehelwanon ke six-pack nahin hote hai, so I started eating all the foods I had restricted. How did the song with all three actors—you and the two Bachchans come about? That was our director Rohit Shetty’s idea. He thought it would be wonderful to begin the film with a song where all of us are there. I share a great rapport with both the Bachchans. It was very kind of Amitji to agree to do the song. You’ve seen success as a producer, writer and director. Do you feel you’ve understood the nerve of the commercial cinema? No I have not. But I believe filmmakers will have to make the product that the audience
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COVER STORY wants. Today the ticket prices are expensive; they are spending that money to get entertained, not educated!. But you have done experimental cinema like Apaharan and Gangaajal… Yes, but both are very entertaining films. That’s Prakash Jha’s knack— he takes a realistic idea and turns it into an engaging film. There are other filmmakers who turn them into documentaries. I am doing another film with him called Satyagraha, again very entertaining! When a film crosses the 100-crore mark, it’s often rubbished by a section of the industry. Comment. Grapes are sour, no? If a film has done 100 crore business, then it means a big chunk of the audience has gone to watch it. So are they saying these viewers are wrong? Who are you making films for? Otherwise you make a movie for yourself and watch it at home. What are the positive and negative changes that have taken place in the industry over the years? The biggest positive change is that we are going global. Markets and theatres are increasing. The most negative change is that our budgets are not matching up to the collections. So even of a film is doing a business of 100 crore, the producer is still just breaking even. What about action? Do you think it has become more challenging now? No, it has become too easy (Laughs). The things we used to do, aajkal ke bachche soch bhi nahin sakte!
film before we start Golmaal 4. And then there is Prabhudeva’s film. A lot of corporates are now preferring co-productions. Your about the Gangaajal The positive change is that we are What opinion… sequel? My experience with some of the going global. The negative change We’re thinking of it. We might work corporates is that they are very good on it after Satyagraha. at marketing and presenting the film. is that even if a film is doing a But they don’t have the experience You dabbled in animation business of 100 crore, the producer with Toonpur Ka Superrhero. of making a film. If a shooting is disrupted due to sudden rains and Anything along those lines? is still just breaking even. has to be shifted to another location No, because I think we need more to avoid further losses, one can’t budgets to compete with Hollywood wait for a written sanction. These when it comes to animation. decisions are taken on the spot. In With 20 years behind you in the industry, is it a a corporate set-up, by the time the paperwork is approved, comfortable position, where you know the ins and the film will be shot and ready! So right now it’s a dicey outs of the industry… situation, but hopefully, it’ll come around. (Laughs) After two decades, everything is comfortable and What are your forthcoming projects? nothing is comfortable. Every day you wonder whether you I am doing Himmatwala. Then there is Son of Sardar and will be able to perform, and that’s a good thing. The day you Satyagraha. Plus Rohit (Shetty) and I are planning an action stop feeling that, you should quit.
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COVER STORY Asin:
I’ve worked with all the pranksters in the industry S
he smiles when you tell her the success of Bol Bachchan would mean a hattrick for her. Her last two films Ready and Housefull 2 have been a part of what is known as the ‘100-crore club’. Humble yet confident, Asin speaks about her role in Bol Bachchan and her journey so far in Bollywood.
by Sonia Chopra What role do you play in Bol Bachchan? In Golmaal, the female characters were hardly there… You’re right. The female leads in Golmaal did not have much to do, but the story has been re-written. Which is why I also did not have a reference point for my performance. I play a character called Sanya Bachchan. Of all the characters, she is the most grounded and down-to-earth. But it was not a kind of character that needed homework or preparation from my side. Have you even played the character of a bol bachchan? I think my character in Ghajini was a total bol bachchan. Otherwise, in real life, I don’t make tall claims but I can be quite a chatter-box. You’ve worked with some of the top directors of Bollywood. How was the experience working with Rohit Shetty? I keep calling Rohit a South Indian director. For one, he doesn’t like his heroines thin. When I started shooting, I had lost some weight, which for any other Bollywood director would have been a good thing. But no, he hated it, and kept forcing me to eat. He ordered special food for me, and pulled me out of the gym in the evenings. Of course Ajay and Abhishek joined in the fun and kept torturing me to keep eating. He also has the South sensibility when it comes to discipline and punctuality. Housefull and Bol Bachchan are both comedies. How would you compare Sajid Khan’s approach vis-a-vis Rohit Shetty? Rohit prefers sticking to the script and likes to rehearse. He’s very organized. In fact he figures out everything from the camera angles to the positions, before the actors arrive on the set. On the other hand, Sajid is very spontaneous and believes in improvising. He takes inputs very easily, and in fact welcomes them. In Housefull 2, we hardly stuck by the script and improvised in every
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COVER STORY scene. So, both follow very different styles of filmmaking. You’ve consistently worked with Bollywood’s best pranksters. This time you had Ajay and Abhishek for company… Yes, I’ve worked with all the pranksters in the industry from Salman, Askhay, Ajay, Abhishek to Aamir! Ajay being the co-producer was very busy. But Abhishek was like a kid; a complete livewire. The day he was not shooting, we could feel the instant drop in energy levels. When he’s on sets, everyone’s on their toes. You don’t know whose case he’s going to take—most of the times his victims used to be the junior assistants and light men. But he’s also a sore loser. When we’d play games on our outdoor schedules, he’d argue till you just let him win. Four films down, do you still feel like a newcomer in Bollywood? No I am quite comfortable now. I now consider myself as a part of the Indian film industry whether it is Hindi, Malayalam or Tamil. You haven’t really shown any inclination towards doing any offbeat cinema yet.
Right now, I am concentrating on the commercial space because it reaches a larger number of people. If in this space, I get a fleshed-out character, I will be very happy. The best example would be Ghajini, where Kalpana’s character had a graph. That would be the ideal combination for me, but you pick from what comes your way. Fingers crossed! Do you keep a tab on the business side of films like collections etcetera? No, I don’t think actors should take that load on their head.
I am concentrating on the commercial space because it reaches a larger number of people. If in this space, if I get a fleshed-out character, I will be very happy
It’s better to concentrate on your acting. While it’s nice to have that knowledge, it should not be an actor’s concern. It’s the producer’s area, not ours. How much of Khiladi 786 is shot? We’re already done with one schedule. It’s an action comedy like the Khiladi franchise. One keeps hearing rumours that you are doing Sajid Nadiadwala’s 2 states? I don’t know that myself. Even I have heard the rumours. I love the book and many people have said I’d be the perfect fit to Ananya Swaminathan’s character as I relate to the Chennai culture etcetera. But the frank ruth is that the makers have not approached me. Any plans to do South films in the future? Not at the moment. I have a body of work in the South. And unless something really different comes along, I wouldn’t like to repeat myself. BLOCKBUSTER JULY 7, 2012
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COVER STORY
Abhishek Bachchan
Bol Bachchan is comedy with a tadka of action D
espite being known for his comic prowess, Abhishek Bachchan talks about why Bol Bachchan proved to be his most difficult film. True to the texture of the film, this interview is also full of humour, emotion, and a hint of drama…
by Sonia Chopra There’s an interesting story attached to the Bol Bachchan song with your father… You know, we were shooting the portion where he does reprises the Anthony Gonsalves act. While having lunch on that day, my father told me about it. He got emotional and told me that when he was shooting the Anthony Gonsalves song for Amar Akbar Anthony, I had come on the sets in a pram. And now I was dancing with him for the same portion of the song. It was a special moment. You worked in director Rohit Shetty’s first film Zameen in 2003. Do you notice a change in him, now that he’s one of the most successful directors in the industry? I know Rohit since he was an assistant and I was a production assistant. He’s like an elder brother to
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me. He is more confident now. Other than that, he is exactly as hardworking, humble and dedicated as before. And he’s a machine—he works 20 hours a day—he just doesn’t stop! He’s the kind of director that allows his actor to discover the character along with him. So that gives the actor lot of space to contribute. Another thing he does is blow up cars! How many cars were blown up for Bol Bachchan? I honestly lost count. After pack-up, we were scared getting into our own cars. So as a rule, we don’t park our cars around him anymore. If it’s a romantic song, other directors will put a fog machine, but Rohit will blow up cars in the background (Laughs). You’ve also known Ajay Devgn for a long time, apart from having worked together in Zameen and Yuva… I know Ajay since we were kids; we’re both Juhu boys.
COVER STORY He’s one of the most supportive co-stars I’ve worked with. He’ll be there on the sets to help, even if his shots are not scheduled for the day. He’s loads of fun, and a big bully also! This was the first time you’ve worked with Asin and Prachi… Yes. Asin has achieved so much in the Hindi film industry in a short span. What I like about Asin, is that she’s a team player. After her shot, she’ll never go back and sit in her van. She wants to be on the set and be involved. She also loves to ask questions. Prachi is always smiling. I’ve never seen her upset! Maybe because of her TV background, she learns dialogues super-fast. So when you give her five pages of dialogues, she’ll say “only five pages?” And the rest of us will be like “five pages!!” (Laughs). Have you seen the original Golmaal and can you outline the similarity between Amol Palekar’s character and yours? I’ve seen Golmaal. There’s no similarity except that we both have a moustache. And that we pretend to be someone we’re not. That’s the only thread to the film we’ve taken. Bol Bachchan has a completely different feel—it’s a comedy with a tadka of action. How was the experience of working on a comedy after a long time? Exhausting! I thought it’ll be a holiday, but this was the kind of film that made me want to go on a holiday (Laughs). It turned out to be the most difficult film of my career, and I’ve done some pretty tough films. Was it because of a different comedic wavelength and pitch? Exactly. There’s a pitch to every film and you have to match that. My style of comedy is very deadpan and straight-
faced, but Bol Bachchan’s pitch was very high-energy. I had to unlearn and re-learn, which was very difficult. How long did it take for you to adapt? A full week! The first few days were tough. I came prepared to enact the role in a particular way, and Rohit had a completely different idea. But he kept working with me—we’d rehearse and discuss over dinner and after the pack-up. You’re taking on fewer projects. Is it because you’ve become very cautious with the films you pick? When I started my career, we were all doing 5-6 films. Today, I think demands on a lead pair are a lot more. Also, I don’t want to point fingers at anybody. I want to have the satisfaction that I did everything possible for my film. Often, actors are not available for the previous film’s patch-work as they’ve taken on a new project. Since there’s so much money involved, I think it’s only fair that the actor is available throughout. Do you feel you’ve been given your due as an actor? No. I think I have been given too much due. People think me to be a much better actor than I actually am. I have a lot more to do and improve. I am very harsh on myself. I’m not being fakely humble; I really am my worst critic. How has life changed after becoming a father…? How do you pamper Baby Aradhya? For one, there’s another person you’re willing to do anything for and the responsibilities are there. Now I am making pictures and earning money, so I can give her the best. I don’t know how it changes you. I don’t follow any rule-books, I prefer going by instinct. The process of discovery is the fun of being a parent. She’s too little for me to pamper her, so I am waiting for her to grow a little. In any case, she’s the focus of everyone’s attention at home! Was it difficult shooting the film just after becoming a dad? Yes, but thankfully most of the film was wrapped up before she was born. What’s next? There’s Dhoom 3 for now. I am very happy that my friend Victor will be directing the film. And I’m really excited to be working with Aamir Khan. He’s an actor I’ve literally grown up watching. I still remember when Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak released, I was 11 years old. I can now tick “Worked with Aamir Khan” off my list.
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COVER STORY Sajid-Farhad:
The Comedy Titans
Were the characters of Bol Bachchan based on the qualities of real people? Of course, 101 per cent! When you meet new people you interact with them, you get ideas from them, you get lines from them also. So of course common people will relate to their characters. What was the inspiration for this movie’s storyline? The story line is based on the original Golmaal so definitely that was the inspiration as that film is a classic! Even if you watch it today on television you will still feel it is a superb film. So we have tried to reach that expectation level; we don’t want to overtake them or be more over-smart. They are great people, they have made a classic. This is an attempt to make a classic and for just this attempt we are very happy.
S
ajid Samji forms one part of the Sajid-Farhad duo that has written scripts for some of the most hilarious films like Golmaal 3, Ready, Double Dhamaal and Housefull 2. Here is what Sajid has to say when asked about their sense of humour and their new film Bol Bachchan. by Aliya Mukadam You have written some of the most hilarious and amusing comedy films. What inspired you to write comedy? Inspiration can come to you from anywhere at any place; life is the biggest inspiration for our films. We have always been movie buffs and the more we watch films, the more we get inspired to write. How do you come up with such comical gags and dialogues? If you remember a dialogue in Golmaal, “Hamaari body mein 206 haddiyan hai”. I can add to this by saying that we brothers have a total of 412 funny bones, so obviously humour has to be there! We like to make others laugh and have a good time. So I can say that we are blessed with humour. You have co-written Bol Bachchan how did it feel to work with Rohit Shetty as a director? The chemistry with Rohit Shetty as a director is incredible; we started with Golmaal 2 and Golmaal 3, All the Best, Singham and now Bol Bachchan. Writing for this film was so much fun because comedy is our forte and the
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chemistry or tuning with the director is to the core; we know what he wants and he knows what he can get out of us. What can the audience expect from this movie? The expectations of the public will always increase after every film. People liked Golmaal 2 and so for Golmaal 3 we had to deliver, then with Singham, and now with Bol Bachchan. So the anticipation will be more. Insha-Allah I think we will deliver.
Hamaari body mein 206 haddiyan hai, I can add to this by saying that we brothers have a total of 412 funny bones!
Even though the makers have bought the rights of the original Golmaal, except the core everything has changed. What was the brief given to you? We had to make a lot of changes. That film was made in the late 70s and now it is 2012, so it had to be adapted to today’s time. The characters are different, the premise is different, and the scenes have been changed. Are you currently working on any other movie projects? Rohit Shetty is starting a film called Chennai Express which stars Shah Rukh Khan. We have already written the script, Shah Rukh has read and locked it. Another one that we are very thrilled to write for is Akshay Kumar’s next film. There is a film with Sanjay Dutt which is very exciting called Saamy, directed by well-known South director KS Ravikumar. Then there is the remake of Himmatwala starring Ajay Devgn and directed by Sajid Khan. So God has been great; we have a lot set out for us. Describe the rapport you share with each other. We are real brothers, but we don’t look alike and we are different from each other. However, we have cross-checked with our parents separately [chuckles]. We are definitely real brothers! So we don’t care about the world, we love each other greatly. We are very critical about our work. If we feel there is something that needs to be improved in each other’s work or if we want to change something, we say it. But we are the best buddies in the world!
CORPORATE CALL Sanjay Dutt in Saamy remake
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roducer T.P. Aggarwal of Star Worldwide Entertainment Pvt. Ltd and Sanjay Dutt have come together for the remake of Tamil hit Saamy. Vikram played the hero in the original. Later it was remade in Telugu as Lakshmi Narasimha with Balakrishna. The original was even dubbed into Telugu as Saamy IPS. Both the languages were box office success. The Tamil version had grossed Rs. 16 crore and was the biggest hit of 2003. Prakash Raj plays the villain. He did the same role in Telugu version too. Prachi Desai has been finalised to play the female lead. The Southern superstar K.S. Ravi Kumar with many box-office hits to his credit and currently directing Rajnikant in Rana is going to direct it.
Eros reappoints Jyoti Deshpande as CEO
E
ros Group has recalled back Jyoti Deshpande as its Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director. Deshpande who had played a significant part in the company for well over a decade had gone a sabbatical from 1 January 2011. Kishore Lulla, currently Chairman and CEO of Eros International plc, will revert to his previous role of Executive Chairman. Deshpande will also be appointed as executive director of Eros International Media.
In and Out
PVR plans to roll out 80 news screens each year for the next two years. The management said focus will be on tier-II cities as they will contribute more to growth going ahead. On bowling alley front, four new centers will be added in FY13E. This robust expansion plan will help increase occupancy for both exhibition and gaming business.
Salman Dawns a New Look in Sher Khan
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alman Khan will undergo a makeover for the film Sher Khan and will be sporting long locks. Initially
B
alaji Telefilms Group Chief Executive Officer Puneet Kinara who has been with the company since October 2008 has quit and will join a film-focused private equity company. Meanwhile Alpana Mishra, who has earlier with UTV Motion Pictures, has been appointed as CEO of Ekta Kapoor’s ALT Entertainment.
PVR profits decline!
T
he operating profit for the first quarter of multiplex operator PVR Ltd.’s has sharply declined by 4% because of the rising costs of rent which had more than doubled to Rs. 27 crore. Further poor operating performance and service tax has spoiled the show at the net level, resulting in the company posting a loss for the quarter. According to Nitin Sood, the chief financial officer of PVR, it will lower multiplex operator’s cost by nearly 20%. The PVR stock has delivered good returns to investors and has considerably outperformed the BSE small-cap index and the benchmark Sensex in the past year. The firm has decided to exit its loss-making movie production business, a move that seems to have gone down well with investors. Shanghai was the last movie in PVR’s production pipeline; which was released this quarter. Broadly, a roll-out of new screens and a higher ATP (average ticket price) are expected to boost PVR’s financials in the days to come.
Salman’s character was going to be similar to fearless action hero avatar in Dabangg, but now the makers have had a change of heart and mind. They want to impress Salman’s biggest fan followers, who always expect something out of the ordinary. The character of Sher Khan is now based on the Biblical superhero Samson, whose undefeatable strength lay in his long hair locks. This means the Ek Tha Tiger superstar is the latest to join the bandwagon of Bollywood superheroes like Hrithik Roshan’s Krrish and Shah Rukh Khan’s G.One.
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TRADE TALK Saif – Milan team up once again!
Neeraj Vora to direct Hera Pheri 4
S
T
aif Ali Khan will play the main lead in director Milan Luthria’s mega project. It will be jointly produced by Bhushan Kumar of T-Series and Milan Luthria under the banner of Vertex Motion Pictures. The leading lady of the film is still under wraps. It will be a wholesome entertainer filled with action, adventure, suspense with a strong romantic angle and music playing a significant role. It will be Kumar’s big venture after Ready which has crossed Rs 100 crore plus. The filming will start in 2013. Milan who is riding high after two back to back super hits The Dirty Picture and earlier Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai is all set to begin filming the sequel of Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai…Again in August. With this film Saif Ali Khan and Milan Luthria reunite once again after Kachche Dhaage which happened 13 years ago!
he sequel to Hera Pheri produced by Firoze Nadiadwala will finally roll. It will be directed by Neeraj Vora, who directed Hera Pheri 3. Earlier Anees Bazmee who had scripted the movie was supposed to direct the project of the successful franchise but it has changed hands. Anees Bazmee the king of slapstick comedy seems to have hit a rough patch. Hera Pheri 4 had been announced with Abhishek Bachchan and Riteish Deshmukh in the lead roles replacing Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty. Nana Patekar is said to take over from Paresh Rawal.
David in 3 languages
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eliance Entertainment’s action movie with gangster background titled as David, which is being made simultaneously in Tamil and Hindi, is now being dubbed in Telugu as well. Directed by Bejoy Nambiar (of Shaitan fame), the film has Vikram in the title role. Neil Nitin Mukesh is playing another lead character in the film, while Jiiva is playing the third leading role. Jiiva’s role in Tamil will be done by Vinay Virmani in Hindi. Tabu
2 States finally moves
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ne of the most keenly awaited films, which has also been in doldrums for the longest time was expected to start early next year. Titled as 2 States it is based on Chetan Bhagat’s novel by the same name, it is expected to start early next year. It is an ambitious co-production by Sajid
Nadiadwala and Karan Johar. Sajid had bought the rights of the film a couple of years back. It was to be directed by Vishal Bhardwaj with Shah Rukh Khan in the lead. Then Ranbir Kapoor was being top lined for the role. However, talks fizzled out and the project was lying in the cold storage for long. Now, with Imran Khan agreeing to play the lead, everything was falling into place. But he too has backed out citing date problems. Finally after a lot of speculation, the makers have zeroed in on Arjun Kapoor to play the lead which will be directed by debutante Abhishek Verma. 2 States is a love story of a South Indian girl and a typical Delhi Punjabi boy and the roller coaster ride that they go on before finally tying the knot.
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and Isha Sharvani are the heroines in the film. Isha is said to playing the female lead opposite Vikram. Remo Fernandes, the Indian pop singer appears as himself in the film. Nishan, Prahlad Kakkar and many others are also in the film. Based on a script by Bejoy Nambiar and Natasha Sahgal, the film has cinematography by R. Rathnavelu and R. Madhi and music is by Prashant Pillai, Anirudh Ravichander, Remo and Modern Mafia. The filming with a Goan backdrop was held in Alleppey, Kerala and Kuttanad and Kapu in Karnataka.
Prateik’s first action film
A
fter starring as a lover boy in his last release Ek Deewana Tha, Prateik Babbar’s upcoming film Isaaq will see him in a different avatar altogether. Directed by Manish Tiwary of Dil, Dosti, Etc fame, the film is an action film flick. The post-production of the film is in progress and is expected to release soon. Prateik who made his debut with Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na was also seen in Dhobi Ghaat and Aarakshan.
TRADE TALK Super Kool gets hotter!
T
he all-India rights of Ekta Kapoor and Balaji Motion Pictures’ Kyaa Super Kool Hain Hum which has been made on a budget of around Rs. 14 crore has been bought by Nagpur based firm Heera Laxmi Amusement for Rs. 21.60 crore. The film which was originally scheduled to release on
August 3 has been pre-poned by a week. The film will be now released on July 27, the time when Balaji’s blockbuster Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai had released two years back. Directed by Sachin Yardi for producers Ekta Kapoor and Shobha Kapoor under the banner of Alt Entertainment, the film features Tusshar Kapoor and Ritesh Deshmukh reprising their roles from the previous 2005 hit Kyaa Kool Hai Hum. Others in the cast include Neha Sharma, Sarah Jane Dias, Chunkey Pandey, Anupam Kher, Angela Johnson and Rohit Shetty. Vishal Shekhar has provided the musical score.
UTV acquires Joker for lesser price!
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t is reliably learnt that UTV had acquired the worldwide theatrical rights as well as satellite, video and audio rights of Joker for around Rs. 40 crore. Akshay Kumar is currently the box office favourite with two back to back blockbusters Housefull 2 and Rowdy Rathore. Both the films have crossed the Rs. 100 crore mark in India. Despite the success of those films, Akshay’s film being sold at a lesser price comes as a surprise. But according to sources, the Shirish Kunder film was made on a medium budget and had made profits. The idea behind selling the film on a less press is to make sure that everyone who buys the film makes decent profits. The film will be released in 2D format on September 14.
Sircar’s next take is on LTTE
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resh from the success of Vicky Donor, Shoojit Sircar’s next film is titled as Jaffna. It is a dark political thriller and is based on the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and the civil war in the Sri Lankan city. John Abraham apart from playing the lead will also produce it. The two had earlier teamed up for Vicky Donor, a film on sperm donation which has grossed around Rs. 46.2 crore worldwide. Jaffna would have all the known political personalities from the LTTE episode of Indian history including Prabhakaran, the LTTE’s founder.
Rajni-starrer Kochadaiyaan by year end
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he much-anticipated multi-lingual Rajnikanth-starrer Kochadaiyaan, filmed on the lines of James Cameron’s Avatar will be released this year end. Producers Eros International Media are planning multi-city premieres across Los Angeles, London and India, besides unveiling the audio in Tokyo, where the popular star has good fan following. Besides Rajnikanth, the film includes Deepika Padukone, Jackie Shroff, R. Sharath Kumar and Shobana. It is being directed by Rajnikanth’s daughter Soundarya R Ashwin with supervision by famous director K.S. Ravikumar. Jaya TV has bagged the satellite rights of the Tamil version while Lakshmi Ganapathy Films in Hyderabad has been awarded the Telugu rights. In a marketing blitzkrieg, the makers have tied-up with Karbonn mobiles to launch five lakh of Kochadaiyaan merchandise in September/October during the audio launch of the film.
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TRADE TALK Unfolding magic once again!
SNIPPETS
A
• Viacom18 Media has appointed Sudhanshu
Ishqiya sequel in September
• The biggest comic icon Charlie Chaplin is all set to be animated in colour not only to entertain kids but also the adults who grew up admiring him. It will be soon aired on POGO channel.
fter giving two back to back hits The Dirty Picture and earlier Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai for Ekta Kapoor’s Balaji Motion Pictures, director Milan Luthria is all set to begin filming the sequel of Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai…Again in August. The film set in the early 80s will again take a retro route with Akshay Kumar stepping in place of Ajay Devgn, Sonakshi Sinha for Prachi Desai and Imran Khan for Emraan Hashmi who featured in the original.
T
he black comedy thriller Ishqiya produced by Raman Maroo of Shemaroo and Vishal Bharadwaj and directed by debutante Abhishek Chaubey had performed much better than expected at the box-office. The film had Vidya Balan, Arshad Warsi, Naseeruddin Shah and Salman Shahid in the lead roles. The film was released on 29 January 2010 and a sequel to the film was announced with the same cast and crew. The film is titled as Dedh Ishqiya and will roll in September. Madhuri Dixit-Nene has stepped into the shoes of Vidya Balan whose kiss and intimate scene with Arshad Warsi became one of the talking points of the movie. Everyone is curious about Madhuri’s character in the film. The film will also star Arshad and Naseeruddin Shah.
Madhuri Dixit in Gulab Gang
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nternational Woman’s Day is marked on March 8 every year. In different regions the focus of the celebrations ranges from general celebration of respect, appreciation and love towards women to a celebration for women’s economic, political and social achievements. On that day, next year Anubhav Sinha’s home production, Benaras Media Works’s Gulab Gang, a film about women power is being planned for release worldwide. Gulab Gang is not about gangsters but vigilantes played by a group of women who help other women and solve their problem. It is a story of a gang of women fighting against social injustice. Madhuri Dixit plays the main protagonist and is said to have a strong role. The film is directed by former film journalist Soumik Sen and is likely to have Mahie Gill and Shilpa Shukla as a part of Madhuri’s gang. The film will go on floors post monsoon.
Dharma – Balaji Co-Venture By Year End
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he co-venture by Balaji Productions and Dharma Productions is said to take off by this year end. Last December, Ekta Kapoor and Karan Johar had announced their co-production venture. The yet-to-be-titled romantic comedy is an urban take on love. It is a heroine-oriented film and will star Deepika Padukone opposite Emraan Hashmi. Akash Roy makes his debut as the director.
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Vats as its group CEO. Vats will join the company in August. He will be responsible for growth of all Viacom18 brands including Colors, Comedy Central, MTV, Nick, Sonic, Vh1 and Viacom18 Motion Pictures.
• While Bol Bachchan releases this week, ace director from South Shashank is gearing up to make a Kannada film titled BachchanThe Angry Young Man from July 10 with movie stars Sudeep, Jagapathi Babu, Parul and Bhavana. It is produced by Uday Mehta. • Tanuja Chandra’s next titled Raakh is a horror-thriller set in rural Bihar and is scheduled to release in August/September. The film stars Rajeev Khandelwal, Ramia Sen and Vir Das in the leads. • After teaming up for Hollywood films like Slumdog Millionaire and 127 Hours, music composer A.R. Rahman and Hollywood filmmaker Danny Boyle will work together again. This time, Rahman will compose a part of the score for the opening ceremony of London Olympics 2012 (July 27 – August 12) while Boyle will be directing the ceremony. • Pooja Bhatt whose last directorial venture Kajraare starring Himesh Reshammiya was released in a hush-hush situation in midOctober 2010 is back with an erotic thriller with sexy scenes Jism 2. The film marks the debut of Indo-Canadian pornographic actress Sunny Leone with Randeep Hooda and is slated to release on August 3 worldwide. • Apoorva Lakhia’s remake of Zanjee will have two item songs. Mahie Gill, the Dev.D debutante will feature in one item song with also a cameo while Indo Canadian porn star Sunny Leone will shake her booty in another. • The 59th Idea Filmfare Awards (South) will be held at Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu, (Nehru Indoor Stadium) in Chennai on July 7. • The 90-scecond teaser of Sanjay Gupta’s Shootout At Wadala will be screened with Ek Tha Tiger. • After tasting success with Kahaani, filmmaker Sujoy Ghosh is currently writing his next film starring megastar Amitabh Bachchan. The film might also see actors Vidya Balan and Naseeruddin Shah in prominent roles.
CENSOR CUT HINDI BANNER
FILM
NATURE
C.C. NO.
DATE
LENGTH REELS (in meters)
Shree Ashtavinayak Cine Vision Pvt. Ltd.’s
Bol Bachchan
Social
DIL/2/23/2012 (U/A)
22nd June
--
--
Alok Sanskar Vision Films’
Maharana Pratap – The First Historical Freedom Fighter
CIL/2/86/2012 (U/A)
22nd June
4157.60
18
Sanjiv Jaiswal’s
Shudra – The Rising
Social
CIL/2/89/2012 (U/A)
27th June
2826.42
13
Big Animation (I) Pvt. Ltd.’s
Krishna Aur Kans (3D)
Mythological
CIL/1/57/2012 (U)
29th June
--
Kapishlok Films Pvt. Ltd.’s
This Weekend
Thriller
CIL/2/90/2012 (U/A)
29th June
3561.85
Maddock Films Pvt. Ltd.’s
Cocktail
Social
DIL/2/28/2012 (U/A)
29th June
2 hrs 13 mts
Mannsa Productions’
Ussey Kya Ho Jayega?
Social
DIL/1/25/2012 (U)
4th July
Shemaroo Entertainment Ltd.’s
War On Terror – Khandhar
Social
DIL/1/26/2012 (U)
4th July
---
------
Harsh Creations’
Gailya (The Ghost Of Night)
Comedy
DIL/2/30/2012 (U/A)
4th July
130 minutes
--
REGIONAL : MARATHI BANNER
FILM
NATURE
C.C. NO.
DATE
LENGTH (in meters)
REELS
Bhansali Films’
Yere Yere Paisa
(Social)
CIL/1/55/2012 (U)
26th June
3188.81
16
REGIONAL : BHOJPURI BANNER
FILM
NATURE
C.C. NO.
DATE
LENGTH (in meters)
REELS
A.S. Film International’s
Hum Hai Banke Bihari
Social
DIL/3/69/2012 (A)
29th June
169.48 minutes
R.G. Production Houses’s
Nandu Nikamma
Social
CIL/2/91/2012 (U/A)
2nd July
4235.14
---
Saranjan Art International’s
Shivguru Mahima
Social
CIL/3/45/2012 (A)
4th July
4171.68
16
REGIONAL : CHHATTISGARHI BANNER
FILM
NATURE
C.C. NO.
DATE
LENGTH (in meters)
REELS
Anamika Singh Thakur’s
Bin Jawar Korisan Bhawar
Social
DIL/2/29/2012 (U/A)
2nd July
164.40 minutes
--
APPLIED : HINDI DATE
BANNER
FILM
LENGTH (in meters)
REELS
29th June
SRK Media Entertainments’
3rd July
K.K. Media’s
Billo Rani
2120.89
110
Bloody D – The Night Of Horror
2759.87
10
APPLIED : MARATHI DATE
BANNER
FILM
LENGTH (in meters)
REELS
29th June
Matrubhoomi Productions’
Ek
3226.88
14
APPLIED : BHOJPURI DATE
BANNER
FILM
LENGTH (in meters)
REELS
2nd July
Srishti Pictures (P) Ltd.’s
Zaroor Kaunno Baat Ba
3904.68
16
APPLIED : GUJARATI DATE
BANNER
FILM
LENGTH (in meters)
REELS
4th July
Naag Nath Films’
Prem Ek Jung Chhe
4027.47
15
APPLIED : ENGLISH DATE
BANNER
FILM
LENGTH (in meters)
REELS
3rd July
Warner Bros. Pictures (India) Pvt. Ltd.
The Dark Knight Rises
4540.62
8
BLOCKBUSTER JULY 7, 2012
31
ON THE SETS SIGNED Deepak Tijori to direct
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lue Berry Films Pvt. Ltd. and director Deepak Tijori are searching a new girl to play the lead for a heroine oriented untitled suspense thriller film. It is produced by Denis Selarka and Mehul Simaria. Denis Selarka is the ex - CEO. of Shree Ashtavinayak Cine Vision Ltd.
Satyaprakash to direct
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oldspouse Films from Netherlands have signed Satyaprakash Mangtani to direct two Hindi films to be made in 3D format. One is a romantic thriller titled as 48 Ghante and will introduce Sunaina from Netherlands in the lead. It is slated to launch on July 14. The second one is titled as Khoon Pasina Aur Aansoo.
ANNOUNCEMENTS C.M. Bhaiya Ji
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ctor-producer Sarvesh Saini’s next titled C.M. Bhaiya Ji is based on a political fare in U.P. It is being made under the banner of Heera Film Entertainment. Rajesh Pandey is the writer while Heera Saroj is the director of photography.
Dual ventures
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yramid Productions’ Pyar Ka Panga will mount the sets from July 10 in Kathmandu with a 20-day shooting stint. Written and directed by Salim Reza for producer Jatin Bhagat, the film features Saiyyam Khanna and Karan Mishra in its cast. S. Dinesh is the director of photography. Another film by the same team titled Haunted Child based on the killings of female foeticide will also roll shortly.
Atal Faisla
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ollex Moovee’s next is titled as Atal Faisla. The film is based on a true story and will mount the sets soon. It is written, produced and directed by Abdul Sattar (who produced Ek Baar Chale Aao and Tujhe Nahin Chhodunga). Sagar Maher and Nilamshree will play the lead. Music director has recorded two songs for the film in the voices of Richa Sharma, Sunidhi Chauhan and Udit Narayan. Lyrics are penned by Ibrahim Ashq and Prem Darshan. Raj Shekhar Naidu is the cinematographer.
LAUNCHINGS Phir Wahi Veeraana
J
ayaa’s Film & Music’s Phir Wahi Veerana will mount the sets in the first week of July in Ambikapur (Chattisgarh) with a month-long stint. To be directed by Rakesh Sawant for producers Pankaj Jain, Rajesh Sinha and Jitendra Singh Saabu, the film stars Shawar Ali and Deepshikha in the lead with Shakti Kapoor, Raza Murad, Kiran Kumar, Upasna Singh, Mushtaq Khan and Rakhi Sawant. The film introduces
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newcomers Akshita, Shikha, Tanisha and Sushil Sinha. Meanwhile, music directors Sayed Ahmed and Bapi-Tutul have recorded all the songs in the voices of Kumar Sanu, Alka Yagnik, Udit Narayan, Sunidhi Chauhan, Pamela Jain and Sukhwinder Singh. Guru Kumar and Jagminder will crank the camera. Bobby Khan will choreograph the dances.
SONG RECORDINGS L’il Champ renders first time
E
leven-year-old Azmat Hussain, SaReGaMaPa L’il Champs winner on Zee TV rendered his first song; a qawwali number for Bollywood film Raambhajjan Zindabad. Penned by Vishal Vijay Kumar who has also written the script, the song was recorded at Kailasa Studio on July 3 under the baton of music director Ripul Sharma. Being jointly produced by Khalid Kidwai and Chetan Parikh under the banner of Atlantic Adventure Ltd., with Madhav Chitale as the co-producer, the film is directed by Ranjeet Guptaa. Earlier, Om Puri who features in the lead had also rendered a patriotic number. Others in the cast include Kulbhushan Kharbanda, Seema Azmi (Chak De! India fame), Jagdeep, Zakir Hussain, Khushboo Kamal and Ram Sethi. Cinematography by Chandan Kowli and editing by Dilip Deo are the other credits.
UNDER PRODUCTION Major spell for YRF’s romantic movie
Y
ash Raj Films’ Shah Rukh Khan, Katrina Kaif and Anushka Sharma starrer, yet untitled is having a major shooting spell in London. The film is directed by Yash Chopra who wields the megaphone after Veer-Zara, the 2004 hit romantic drama. The film also brings together the award winning pair of A.R. Rahman and Gulzar, who along with Yash Chopra, are working on creating some wonderful and meaningful music. The film is scheduled for a Diwali 2012 release.
Kajol in a cameo
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harma Productions is under a busy schedule preparing for its upcoming movie Student of the Year. The recent addition to this wonderful team is Kajol, who is going to do cameo in the movie. This is Kajol’s association with Dharma productions after My Name Is Khan. She has played the lead actress for several of Karan’s films and their association dates back to various movies. The movie revolves around campus life and tells a tale of three youngsters in their college days. The movie features fresh faces of Alia Bhatt, Varun Dhawan and Siddharth Malhotra. This is Karan Johar’s directorial venture after My Name Is Khan. The film is slated for its release on the 19th October 2012.
ON THE SETS UNDER PRODUCTION On The Ramp
T
he songs for R. Moviekrafts’ On The Ramp will be shot abroad this month. Produced by Rajeev Bhatia and Nitin Arora and directed by Imran Khalid, the film stars Ranvir Shorey, Urvashi Sharma, Supriya Karnik, Saidah Jules, Khushboo Gupta, Hridaya Bannerjee, Aarti Randhawa, Khushbu Goel, Mrinalini and Bhavna Bakshi. Sadhu Ram Agarwal is the associate producer. Neelabh Kaul is the cinematographer. Music is by Sharib Toshi. U.B. Films presents the film.
Jalsa Ghar Ki Devi
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n item song for R.G. Sagonakha Films’ Jalsa Ghar Ki Devi was canned on Monika Raj at Dehradun recently. Produced by wellknown singer Devi, the film is directed, cinematographed and edited by R.G. Sagonakha. It stars Devi, Shareen Khan, Ali Khan, Birbal, Neeti, Pashupati Nath, Shakal, Bhanu Agarwal and Rajniti Prasad (M.P.). Based on a script by Dr. Pramod Kumar, the film has lyrics by Ravindra Jain, Chandrabhushan and Santosh Puri and has joint music compositions by Ravindra Jain and Chandrabhushan.
Charlie Ke Chakkar Mein
P
roducer Karan Arora (of Bhindi Bazaar…) and debutant director Manish Shrivastava’s Charlie Ke Chakkar Mein is nearing completion. The final 3-day shooting stint will be canned in the second week of July. The investigative thriller stars Naseeruddin Shah with group of youngsters from theatre named Amit Sial, Anand Tiwari, Subrat Datta, Disha Arora, Aanchal Nandrajog, Manasi Rachh, Nishant Lal, Sanam Singh Talwar, Siraj Mustafa, Auroshikha Dey and Sandeep Vasudevan.
COMPLETED
POST PRODUCTION Qayamat Hi Qayamat post-production
T
he D.I. for Mamta Films Entertainments’ maiden venture Qayamat Hi Qayamat has been completed at After Studio and the final mixing is in progress at Empire Sounds. Directed by Vicky Ranawat for producers Santosh Chopra and Mamta Pathrod, the film introduced Saagar and Easter Noronha in its lead. The film co-stars Aryan Vaid, Gracy Singh, Ranjeet, Puneet Issar, Raaj Premi, Mushtaq Khan, Aroon Bakshi, Zakir Husain, Upasna Singh, Govind Namdev, Prem Chopra and Sikander Khan. Sambhavana Seth features in an item number. Based on a story by Jugal Kishore, it has screenplay by Vicky Ranawat and Sachinder Sharma and dialogue by Sachinder Sharma. Lyrics are penned by Sudhakar Sharma with Anchal Talesara, Manoj Tikaria and Suraj Kanodia providing the musical composition. Cinematography by S. Pappu and Gagreen Mishra, sound by Yasin Khan, choreography by Ricky Gupta and J.D., art by Pradeep Singh and editing by Sanjay Verma are the other major credits. Subhash Soral is the executive producer. It is being planned for August release.
Pyaar Ki Miss Call
Tara….Ek Banjaran towards first copy
C
K
horeographer Anthony and Vicky Khan picturised the last song for S.A. Films’ Pyaar Ki Miss Call at a huge set of Lord Ganesha erected at Ajua village in Vadodara (Gujarat) on lead pair Shawar Ali and Zara Naaz. The entire shooting has been complete. The film is produced by Shakeela S. and directed by Razul Alam on his own story. The film co-stars Gaurav Prateek, Arnesh Raj, Mushtaq Khan, Aparna Choudhary, Sharmila Goenkar, Javed Haider, Ehsaan Khan and Dalip Tahil. Lyrics are penned by Dr. Lalit and Sanam Gazipuri with Sunil Patni and Iqbal Sargam providing the musical composition. Cinematography by Salim Suma and action by Dilip Yadav are the other major credits of the film.
umar Raj Productions’ Tara…. Ek Banjaran is fast heading towards its first copy. The postproduction work for the film is in progress. Produced and directed by Kumar Raj with Dharm as the co-producer, the film features Rekha Rana in the title role with Rohan Shroff, Ashish Salaam, Ujwala, Rohit Raj and Brijesh Kori. Based on a script by Dr. Prof. Kishan Pawar, the film has cinematography by Suresh Beesaveni, editing by Anirudra Reddy Challa and music by Prakash Prabhakar. The film is co-produced by Dharm. Vinod Kumar and Girish are the executive producers. The film will feature in all festivals worldwide. BLOCKBUSTER JULY 7, 2012
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ON THE SETS DUE FOR RELEASE Mere Dost Picture Abhi Baki Hai on July 20
F
ilmyBox’s Mere Dost Picture Abhi Baki Hai is scheduled to release on July 20 all over. Meanwhile director Rajnish Raj Thakur has picturised a promotional song under the supervision of choreographer Feroz Khan with actors Suniel Shetty, Udita Goswami, Mumaith Khan, Shawar Ali and Rajpal Yadav in Chandivali Studios recently. Narendra Singh produces the film.
leased online on June 27 while it hit the theatres from June 29. The first ever teaser released in May had created ripples. The film is produced by Aditya Chopra and directed by Kabir Khan. Pritam has provided the musical score.
Jeena Hai Toh Thok Daal on Sept. 7
R
ash Productions’ Jeena Hai Toh Thok Daal is slated to release on September 7 all over. Produced by Aparna Hoshing and directed by Manish Vatsalya, the film features Ravi Kissen,
Aalaap on July 27
F
ilmyBox and Shri Shankaracharya Arts’ Aalaap is slated for July 27 release all over. The music was out recently. The film is all about youth power and music. It is the journey of a rockband that promises to be the voice of the youth, a band that promises to fight violence with music. Produced by Nishant Tripathi and Abhishek Mishra, the film is directed by Manish Manikpuri. The film stars Raghubir Yadav, Onkardas Manikpuri, Rituparna Sengupta, Amit Purohit, Ruhi Chaturvedi, Harsh Rajput, Pitobash, Aabid Shamim, Vijay Raaz, Abhimanyu Singh, Murli Sharma, Krishna Shrivastava and Gamya Wijayadasa (Miss Sri Lanka). The film also marks the Hindi movie debut of India’s number one rock band Agnee as full fledged music directors. The film set in Chhattisgarh is the first Hindi movie indigenously produced out of the Central Indian State
Good over Evil on Aug. 3
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eliance Animation is releasing their animated feature film Krishna Aur Kans in 2D and 3D formats. It is directed by Vikram Veturi who makes his debut. Om Puri, Juhi Chawla, Manoj Bajpai, Anupam Kher, Sachin Pilgaonkar, Supriya Pilgaonkar, A.K. Hangal have given the voice-overs for the film.
Main Krishna Hoon on Janmashtmi
E
ros International Media Ltd. (EIML) will release their 3D animation composite film Main Krishna Hoon on August 10 worldwide to coincide with Janmashtami, the birthday of Lord Krishna. Directed by Rajiv S. Ruia of My Friend Ganesha fame, for producers Nandan K. Mahto and Promila Hunter, the film features animated Lord Krishna with Juhi Chawla and Master Namit. It has also special appearances by Hrithik Roshan and Katrina Kaif.
Ek Tha Tiger to roar on Eid
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ash Raj Films’ most awaited Ek Tha Tiger is all set to storm the screens worldwide on Eid (Aug. 15). This is a film about a story that became a legend, a story that is spoken about only in hushed whispers… a story that shook the very foundation of a dark world of intelligence and espionage… where there are shadows without faces. And where Governments fight shadow battles through soldiers of the unknown… The film stars Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif in the romantic lead. The first ever theatrical promo was re-
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Manish Vatsalya, Hazel Croney, Pooja Welling, Rahul Kumar, Yashpal Sharma, Murli Sharma, Govind Namdeo, Sharat Saxena, Ashwini Kalsekar, Shubha Khote and Mukesh Bhatt. Cinematography by Neelabh Kaul, choreography by Ganesh Acharya and music by Aiddhant Madhav and Shadab Abhik are the major credits.
Rabba Main Kya Karoon soon
A
fter making a sterling debut with the National Award winner 1971, director Amrit Sagar Chopra next Rabba Main Kya Karoon is ready for September / October release. The film stars Arshad Warsi, Paresh Rawal, Raj Babbar, Shakti Kapoor and introducing Akash Sagar Chopra. Salim Suleman have provided the musical score.
Second Marriage Dot Com soon
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oon a movie is releasing in the name of Second Marriage Dot Com. In this film a relationship between a father-son and motherdaughter is shown by director Gaurav Panjwani. The film revolves around the story as to how a son and a daughter decide to put an end to the loneliness of their parents and both wish that their parents should start afresh with a new life partner. Being made under the banner of Vin Mehta, the film is produced by Vinod Mehta and stars Mohit Chauhan, Vishal Nayak, Sayani Gupta, Charu Rohatgi, Manjeet Tiger and Nikita More. The film is being readied for early release.
NAAZ BEAT by Ashok Anchan & K. Z. Fernandes
BOL BACHCHAN OPENS TO MIXED RESPONSE
R
ohit Shetty’s much anticipated Bol Bachchan opened to mixed response all over. The advance booking scenario was dull and on Friday, the single-screen theatres in the interiors and
Khoon Bhari Maang and an untitled one. His earlier produced venture Gola Barood created ripples in Punjab.
SILVASA M’PLEX DOWNS SHUTTERS
T
he 4-screem M’plex, Empress in Silvasa has been closed down from 29th June because the collector has objected to its additional illegal construction of the floor.
IMPERIAL CINEMA TO GO UNDER RENOVATION
S
alimbhai, the controller of Imperial cinema at Lamington Road, Mumbai has plans for extensive renovation work of the theatre.
GAUTAM INTO BOMBAY DISTRIBUTION many others picked up to some places, the reason it being the big solo release. The film was released in Gujarat and Saurashtra a day before at mid-night. The occasion was celebration of Jayaparvati where the girls and ladies pray the entire night. Shringar Films released the film with 93 prints all over Bombay circuit. It also released the film in many UFO and other digital formats across.
SPIDER-MAN AMAZES B.O.
T
he Amazing SpiderMan posted the highest opening in history for a Hollywood film in India, setting several records and, once again, comprehensively consolidating Spider-Man’s position as India’s favourite superhero by far. The film grossed approximately Rs. 34 crore (approx. USD 6m) in its three day opening weekend starting 29 June with a final tally of 1236 prints in four languages – English, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu and in 3D, 2D and IMAX formats. The film also posted record-breaking highs for each day – Friday, Saturday and Sunday respectively.
PRADEEP SINGH ON A RELEASING SPREE
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eading Bombay film distributor Pradeep Singh who is a specialist of Bhojpuri films, is on a buying spree. After releasing a chunk of Bhojpuri films, including Jaan Tere Naam recently is all geared up to release a dozen of more films in quick succession. Next week he is going to release Andha Kanoon to be followed by Jwala Mandi, Janwar, Narsanhar and many others. Meanwhile he is producing two Bhojpuri films; viz;
Leading satellite and electronic rights buyer, Gautam has floated his distribution concern by the name Tridev Arts. Meanwhile, he has clinched a package-deal for the dubbing re-issue rights of Rowdy Inspector, Captain Bharwani, Ek Anari Do Khiladi, Zulm Ka Badshah and Indra – The Tiger.
CHANDRESH ON THE ROLL
F
ormer staffer of leading Bombay exhibitor – distributor and producer Gul Achra (fondly called Gul Seth), Chandresh has turned Bombay distributor. Now he is even controlling single screens like Silver (Play House), Shree Krishna (Bhandup), Bhagat Hanuman (Vitthalwadi). Shri Ram (Ulhasnagar) and Shri and Laxmi (Ambernath).
KSL TO UNVEIL ITS NEW M’PLEX
K
SL Group which had started multiplexes in cream centers like Silvasa, Vapi and Nagpur will unveil their their fourth property, a 4-screen multiplex in Dombivali (East) shortly.
CINEMAX’S NEW PROPERTY IN PUNE
C
inemax will unveil their 4-screen multiplex at Shankar Seth Road, Swargate in Pune this month or August. This is their second plex in Pune, the first being at Nagar Road.
TIME PASS WITH MUKTA
V
asai’s new 4-screen multiplex, Time Pass Digiplex come up at Babhola in the west region is being controlled by Mukta Movies. It has a seating capacity of 252 seats each.
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DEALS C.P.CI. RAJ
BOMBAY Jism 2
Raksha Entertainment Pvt. Ltd. V.I.P. Cinemas
Kya Super Kool Hai Hum
C.P.
3 Bachelors
Heera Laxmi Amusement
Yeh Jo Mohabbat Hai
Shringar Films
Yeh Jo Mohabbat Hai
C.P.
Sanman Exhibitors Pvt. Ltd.
Overtime
Multimedia Combines
C.I.
Red Sun Enterprises
Bhedion Ka Aatank (Dub.)
Ravi Enterprises
Kya Super Kool Hai Hum Yeh Jo Mohabbat Hai
C.I. & Raj
Bharati Film Distributors
Humse Na Takrana (Dub.) Ravi Enterprises Ek (Marathi)
Sameer Dixit
Tendulkar Not Out (Marathi)
Zee Entertainment (Sadik Chitalekar)
Pavli Chalali Tuljapurchi Vaat (Marathi)
Super Movies Entertainment rel. thru Raju Kamble
Saatvi Paas (Marathi)
Omkar Films rel. thru Raju Kamble
Baila Ho Baikola Kho! (Marathi)
Shri Sati Aai Production rel. thru Raju Kamble
Ek Bihari Sau Pe Bhari (Bhoj.)
Mhatre Enterprise
Jwala Mandi (Bhoj.)
Green Chilly Media & Films Pvt. Ltd.
Odhaniya Dhamal Karela (Bhoj.)
Lotus Media & Films
Laga Do Chunariya Mein Hook Raja Ji (Bhoj.)
Lotus Media & Films
Dil To Paagal Hola (Bhoj.)
Al-Makdoom Enterprises
Pagal Premi (Bhoj)
Al-Makdoom Enterprises
Dabang Damad (Bhoj)
Al-Makdoom Enterprises
Bajrang (Bhoj.)
Al-Maqdoom Enterprises
Kaaliya (Bhoj.)
Al-Makdoom Enterprises
Odhniya Dhamal Karela (Bhoj.)
Lotus Media & Films
Ranveer (Bhoj.)
Altura Films rel. thru Devendra Shah
SOUTH
DELHI - U.P. Kya Super Kool Hai Hum
UTV
Yeh Jo Mohabbat Hai
Kapur Films
Odhniya Dhamal Karela (Bhoj.)
Lotus Media & Films Pvt. Ltd.
EAST PUNJAB Kya Super Kool Hai Hum
Vijay Tandon
Yeh Jo Mohabbat Hai
Mukta Movies
EASTERN CIRCUIT Kya Super Kool Hai Hum Yeh Jo Mohabbat Hai
Amu Moviez W. Bengal
Yeh Jo Mohabbat Hai Bihar Cocktail
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Damani Films Damani Films
W. Bengal
BLOCKBUSTER JULY 7, 2012
Venkatesh 2000
Kya Super Kool Hai Hum
Nizam & Andhra
Indra Films
Yeh Jo Mohabbat Hai
Nizam & Andhra
Indra Films
Yeh Jo Mohabbat Hai
Mysore
Pal Enterprises
Yeh Jo Mohabbat Hai
Tamilnadu & Kerala
Hansa Pictures
Kya Super Kool Hai Hum
Mysore
Bahar Enterprises
OVERSEAS Yeh Jo Mohabbat Hai
Madhu Entertainment & Media Pvt. Ltd. MUSIC
Yeh Jo Mohabbat Hai
Sa Re Ga Ma Pa
Neethane En Ponvasantham
Sony Music
WANTED REPRESENTATIVES We need all India Representatives for our new weekly film trade journal Blockbuster, who can provide us with weekly box-office figures, news, and other aspects Please email us on editorial@blockbuster.com
HOLLYWOOD Spider-Man truly Amazing! The Amazing Spider-Man marked the highest opening in history for a Hollywood film in India, setting several records, making Spider-Man India’s most loved super hero till date. The film grossed approximately INR 34 crore (approx. USD 6m) in its three day opening weekend starting 29 June with a final tally of 1236 prints in four languages – English, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu and in 3D, 2D and IMAX formats. The film also posted record-breaking highs for each day – Friday, Saturday and Sunday respectively.
James Cameron sees obstacles for 3D Veteran producer-director James Cameron, an ardent believer in 3D, predicts various obstacles for 3D home-viewing. Cameron said, “The biggest hurdle right now is the experience in the home. While it’s quite good, it requires committing to wearing
glasses.” The three-dimensional films gained popularity during the 2000s and achieved a breakthrough with Cameron’s Avatar in 2009, which became the top box-office earner ever. Cameron’s Titanic was re-released this year in April in a 3D version. Work is in progress to release in HD Blu-ray in 2D and 3D. But the main glitch in this concept is that only a few will be able to enjoy the 3D version; as just 18 million households will have the television set, player and glasses necessary to play Blu-ray 3D at home. The dual perspective creates challenges for viewing; without glasses, the image has to be focused for the audience in another way, which is easier for single viewers than for groups of people. For that reason, Cameron said, 3D was likely to catch on faster on tablets and laptop computers, where viewers normally watch on their own, than on large screens at home. The 3D pioneer certainly has a point!
Jackie Chan a True Hero World-famous martial arts star and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Goodwill Ambassador Jackie Chan will travel to Mandalay to discuss the increased need for lawmakers and politicians to break down the multi-billion dollar enterprise of child trafficking and enhance task forces across the nation. Jackie Chan states, “Trafficking and exploiting children are horrific crimes. They leave lifelong scars and rob children of their childhoods. Children are not for sale. For the sake of the world’s children, we must work hard to stamp out these damaging and criminal practices.” Chan will meet kids and teach them important survival techniques. UNICEF representative Ramesh Shrestha is thankful that the Hollywood star is taking a stand. Ramesh said, “Jackie Chan is hugely popular in Myanmar and he is a strong and dedicated advocate of child rights. Children and teenagers are inspired by his martial arts skills, bravery, adventure and humour. He will be a source of inspiration and encouragement.”
Tom-Kat Call it Quits Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes are divorcing after five years of marriage. The Hollywood couple famously known as ‘Tomkat’ are calling it quits. An attorney for Katie Holmes confirmed the news calling it a private matter for the family. They wed in 2006 in an Italian castle after Cruise famously declared his love for her by jumping on Oprah Winfrey’s couch. This will be the third divorce for 50-year-old Cruise who was also married to Mimi Rogers and Nicole Kidman. The couple has a six year old daughter Suri. Katie is said to dislike and distrust Scientology - of which Tom is a vocal believer. She didn’t want their daughter to be raised in accordance with its doctrines. Reports say that Holmes wanted out of the marriage so that she could raise her daughter away from Scientology.
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FESTIVAL CALLING AMOUR WINS PALME D’OR AT CANNES Michael Haneke’s film Amour has been awarded the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival. The film is a sober and emotional exploration of the love between an elderly couple, as one of them has a stroke and gradually deteriorates. In announcing the award, jury president Nanni Moretti singled out the film's two stars, iconic French actors Jean-Louis Trintignant and Emmanuelle Riva. Even more impressively, this is Haneke’s second Palme d’Or in three years; he also won the top prize in 2009 for The White Ribbon. He now ranks alongside Shohei Imamura, Alf Sjöberg, Francis Ford Coppola, Bille August, Emir Kusturica and the Dardenne brothers, Luc and Jean-Pierre, as a two-time Palme winner.
LA FILM FESTIVAL GETS A FEMALE TOUCH The LA Film Festival hosted the world premiere of Brave, an adventure story to the Film Fest audience. Brave is Disney Pixar’s first film with a female protagonist. This year, the Los Angeles Film Festival shines the spotlight on the contributions of women to the world of animation; therefore this movie fits perfectly with the celebration. The special panel “Women of Wonder – A Celebration of Women in Animation” on Sunday, June 17 celebrates the accomplishments in this field, examine the broader challenges for women in the industry and explore the models that better cultivate and draw on the talents of women as film artists, producers executives.
NYFF’S HISTORIC GOLDEN JUBILEE The New York Film Festival (NYFF) celebrated its 50th year on June 14th till the 28th. The NYFF stands as the second-oldest film festival in North America, and
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one of the oldest in the world. In its historic 50th edition in 2012, the Film Society presented a year-long retrospective of highlights from the festival’s first 49 years, as curated by past and present members of the NYFF selection committee. New York Film Festival highlights the best in world cinema, featuring top films from celebrated filmmakers as well as fresh new talent. It is organized by the Film Society of Lincoln Center.
ANAND MAHINDRA ON SUNDANCE INSTITUTE’S BOARD OF TRUSTEES Anand Mahindra, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of the Mahindra Group of India, one of India's leading corporations, has been nominated to the Sundance Institute’s Board of Trustees along with Sean Bailey, President of Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture Production, and Jacki Zehner, the youngest woman and first female trader to be invited into the partnership of Goldman Sachs and a well-known American philanthropist. Under the leadership of President and Founder Robert Redford and in close coalition with Executive Director Keri Putnam, the 23-person Board is responsible for the governance of Sundance Institute and works to dynamically advance creative and financial support for artists developing original stories for the screen and stage.
SCRATCH! EUROPEAN ANIMATION FILM FESTIVAL OPEN FOR SHORTS Scratch! is a European Animation Film Festival at its first edition open to short movies (with a maximum length of 20 minutes). The festival took place on the 22nd, 23rd and 24th of June at Cineteatro Don Bosco in Lecce (Italy). The festival includes three days of screenings open to the public free of charge, during which they will be screened animated films selected at the preliminary stage by a special commission art. It includes three broad categories. The first category is traditional animation, 2D digital, mixed media and stop motion the second is 3D and Visual Effects and the third is Music Videos. A Jury composed of leading personalities from the world of animation will award one film per category. There will also be a retrospective dedicated to an important artist of the European animation film scene and a thematic workshop during the three days of Scratch!
TRAILER Cocktail
Plot:
Cast: Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone, Diana Penty Director: Homi Adajania. Music: Pritam, Yo Yo Honey Singh.
USP of the Film: Intoxicating music with a cool and contemporary look.
Director Homi Adajania’s Cocktail is written by Imtiaz Ali. The film stars Saif Ali Khan and Deepika Padukone opposite each other for the third time after their successful on-screen chemistry in Love Aaj Kal and Aarakshan. The story is based on love triangle with debutant Diana Penty also staring opposite Saif Ali Khan. The film is filled with high energy and has a complete fresh look. Also p featuring Boman Irani, Dimple Kapadia and Randeep Hooda in key roles the film is scheduled for July 13 release. The story of the film revolves around three friends Gautam Khanna (Saif Ali Khan), Veronica D’costa (Deepika Padukone) and Meera Gupta (Diana Penty). At first Meera hates Gautam and Gautam loves it. While Gautam falls for Veronica, slowly and slowly Meera starts liking Gautam. And with the tagline of the film -‘Friendship is confusing and g love is complicated’, the film is all about the confusing se three friends friendship and the complicated love story among these friends. The music of the film given by Pritam has already created a buzz among the music lovers. Conflict: - The conflict arises when Meera realizes her feelings for Gautam, who is already in love with Veronica! Contest: - Who will Gautam end up with—Meera or Veronica? Send us your views on editorial@starblockbuster.com and you may be the lucky one to see your name in print.
Siyaah
Plot:
Directed by Aziz Nazer, Siyaah is a horror film. The film is all about super natural powers and its effect on the life of human beings. Ved leads a very sad life after the sudden and cruel death of his wife. But one day he feels that his wife is back from grave and all of a sudden the trouble begins in his life. From the trailer it can be made out that there is lots of twist and turns in the film. Conflict: Is it possible for someone to be back from grave. And do super natural powers really exist?
Cast: Faheem Ul Haq, Zarine Ali, Irfan Jafer, Aziz Nazer. Director: Aziz Nazer
Contest: Is his wife really back from dead? Send us your views on editorial@starblockbuster.com and you may be the lucky one to see your name in print.
Music: Rajesh and Srinu
USP of the Film: Spine-chilling scenes and cutthroat dialogues.
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TELLY TIME News
Landmark tie-up will see Sur-Kshetra simulcast on Colors and Sahara
I
n a first-of-its-kind strategic tie-up, Colors and Sahara One have joined hands to simulcast a new singingbased reality show–the highly awaited Indo-Pak musical extravaganza, Sur-Kshetra. This is the first time two players from within the Hindi General Entertainment segment have tied-up to present content to audiences. Produced by Sahara One in association with Saibaba Telefilms, Sur-Kshetra will be a cross-border musical battle between the Indian Team, captained by Himesh Reshammiya and the Pakistani Team, captained by Atif Aslam. The jury is highly impressive with three legends— Asha Bhosle (India), Abida Parveen (Pakistan), and Runa Laila (Bangladesh) onboard. Bollywood actress Ayesha Takia will be anchoring the show. The episodes will also have musical stalwarts like Ghulam Ali, Hadiqa Kiani and Sajjad Ali from Pakistan, and Suresh Wadkar, Ismail Darbar, Alka Yagnik and Sapna Mukherjee from India. Raj Nayak, CEO, Colors said, “Music has the unique ability to unify people and today, it has brought two channels together.” Adding to this, Suresh Mishra, Assistant Director Worker, Sahara One said, “Even though the boundaries have divided the two nations, music has always fostered a common and harmonious bond.”
Sameer Kochhar all set to join Bade Achhe Lagte Hain
Y
ou have seen Sameer Kochhar hosting the IPL seasons and battling it out in Star Plus’s Survivor India. Now, he will be seen in Sony Entertainment Television’s popular show Bade Acche Lagte Hai produced by Balaji Telefilms.
TV Today CEO to start his own channel
G. Krishnan, after a 16-year stint with Aroon Purie-promoted TV Today Networks Ltd., that runs English-Hindi news channels like Aaj Tak and Headlines Today, now plans to start his own television venture. Former editorial head and Aaj Tak news director Qamar Waheed Naqvi has been roped in for the venture. Krishnan who had joined the group in 1995 was the key man behind the launch of Aaj Tak, Headlines Today, Delhi Aaj Tak and Tez and also its radio station, Oye FM. He has already resigned and is venturing out to launch two channels – a news channel and a crime-based programming channel.
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TRP and GRP ratings Television Shows
TRPs (This week)
TRPs (last week)
Diya Aur Baati Hum
5.1
5.0
CID
4.0
3.6
Saath Nibhana Saathiya
3.9
3.2
Balika Vadhu
3.5
3.3
Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai
3.2
3.5
Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behna Hain
3.2
3.3
Bade Acche Laggte Hain
3.1
2.8
Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon?
2.8
2.9
Punar Vivah
2.8
2.9
Uttaran
2.6
2.9
Madhubala - Ek Ishq Ek Junoon
2.6
2.8
Pavitra Rishta
2.6
2.6
Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah
2.6
2.5
Crime Patrol
2.5
3.5
Mann Kee Awaaz Pratigya
2.5
2.6
Phir Subah Hogi
2.5
2.2
Mrs. Kaushik Ki Paanch Bahuein
2.4
2.2
Kya Huaa Tera Vaada
2.2
2.4
Sasural Simar Ka
2.2
2.3
Parichay Nayee Zindagi Kay Sapno Ka
2.1
2.6
Devon Ke Dev. Mahadev
2.1
1.6
GEC
TRPs (This week)
TRPs (last week)
Star Plus
270
272
Zee TV
203
233
Sony Tv
201
206
Colors
200
221
Gold
144
127
Life Ok
122
112
ZCN
121
109
SAB Tv
120
121
Max
112
183
69
68
Movies Ok
Reliance – RTL to launch new channel Thrill
A
nil Ambani’s Reliance Broadcast Network Ltd. (RBNL), which signed an equal joint venture with Luxembourg-based RTL Group SA, is set to launch its first action entertainment channel, Thrill. The Channel is slated to launch by the end of the Q1FY12 – 13.
TELLY TIME Interview
Siddharth Shukla : a Treat to Telebiz S
iddharth Shukla has taken the popular TV serial Balika Vadhu by storm playing Anandi’s love prospect Shivraj Shekhar. The charming actor shares his experience with us about his life, Balika Vadhu and sports... by Aliya Mukadam Can you tell us a little more about your role in Balika Vadhu? I am the new man in Anandi’s life. I play the role of Shivraj Shekhar, a District Collector. Shiv is honest, straightforward and very particular about his work. You started your career as a model and you were the winner of Gladrags Manhunt, how did you get into acting? I was done with modelling, well not really done, but I had done what I wanted to like ramp walks and my commercials. I wanted to do something more and learn another art. How does it feel to have bagged a strong role in one of the most watched serials Balika Vadhu? I am very delighted to be a part of Balika Vadhu, this show introduces strong characters that anyone would jump to be part of. It was the best feeling. But initially I would wonder if they would accept me and if I would be able to stand at par with everybody else. Now I’m happy. There are phenomenal actors in the show and I will get to learn so much from them. What do you think about the serial Balika Vadhu? Well I think very honestly, the show from the start has been able to uphold an interesting storyline. Something like this already exists in our society so how much ever we like to deny it, if you go to the interiors it still happens and it’s still happening. It’s a tradition, a custom that has been happening since a long time and I’m sure the show will be able to change that. What feedback are you getting for your character from the viewers? People are relating to the character. It’s nice to know that whatever you are doing is being appreciated by viewers and people you know, and at least you’re standing strong as you did. What do you do when you get a break from shooting? I sleep myself out, because I have such a hectic schedule. You’re an athletic person, what is your favourite sport? I’m into a lot of sports; I participate actively in most of the
sports, so there is no particular sport that I like. I’m very good at table tennis, cricket and football. Do you watch football and did you follow the UEFA EURO league 2012? Which team did you support? EURO I watched for a few hours. I’m an ardent supporter of Italy. I managed to watch the matches whenever possible. If not an actor what would you have been in life? I would have been an Interior Designer. Any special message you would like to give your fans? Just keep having faith and you shall get what you desire.
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TELLY TIME Feature
Satyamev Jayate: The Public’s Voice
S
ince its initiation the television show Satyamev Jayate has created various impressions among its viewers. So far the show has had a great influence on the public, and many people have started voicing their opinions. Here are some of them…
another talk show. Satyamev Jayate has a celeb host [Aamir Khan] who brings to you issues that are printed in newspapers every day. I would have been happier if he invited the CM or HM on the show in front of a live audience to find permanent solutions to these problems.
by Aliya Mukadam
Faizan Shaikh 25 years Operations Executive Satyamev Jayate is an exceptional show that pinpoints all the problems that the Indian society faces. Social problems are not only faced by mediocre families but upper class families as well. SJ is a simple show but with a hard-hitting concept. About honour killing, all I can say is that we are in the 21st century, it’s a disgrace to know this is still happening in our country. Life is getting more advanced but backward thinking is pulling down the progress of our country.
Anubhav Malhotra 17 years Student of Architecture Satyamev Jayate (SJ) is a TV show which shows us the true state of India, unlike others that only showcase talents. All episodes of SJ have given me goose bumps! Alcohol abuse is definitely one such issue that consumes the lives of our youth and leaves families in pain and trauma. Only the wearer knows where the shoe pinches! Zeba Officewala 18 years Medical Student Aamir Khan has made a very sincere effort to help improve the mentality and attitude of the Indian people via SJ. Core issues related to medical fraternity including FDI in pharmaceuticals were discussed on the show. SJ also recommended that instead of using pesticides, organic farming should be encouraged. The episode about female foeticide, child sexual abuse and domestic violence were real eye-openers! That’s why I feel SJ is a phenomenal show! Rahul .J. Sheth 21 years Student and Working It’s is an eye-opener for the “mango” people, who are angry with all the crime in the country without the law taking any action. It’s the best reality show I have seen in the recent times. Hats off to Amir Khan. Abid .M 40 years Managing Director Anyshow that just talks about an issue without coming to a solution is nothing but just
50
BLOCKBUSTER JULY 7, 2012
Jshree Chikhalikar 47 years Homemaker SJ is a programme that is apt for people of the lower middle class and backward societies as most of the incidents are prevalent in their lifestyle. In the case of killing a girl child I think people should realize that in India, the number of girls is less than boys. Why don’t people understand that there should be a perfect balance between both genders? As a mother of two lovely daughters I am truly blessed and I think it is a boon to have such a show. Afreen .K.A 35 years Beauty Therapist I think Satyamev Jayate is a good show; however the team should also start solving issues on TV rather than just disclosing them. They have the contacts and the ability to solve the small issues and leave larger ones to the judiciary as they do already. The TRPs of the show are slowly slipping, but if they start solving issues, it will make a greater impact. I believe in practicality and not just all talk. Anyone can build castles in
the air; it’s time to stop talking and actually start acting. By just voting, is it actually solving any problems? And is the Indian Judiciary really acting immediately on them? First and foremost our basic Indian infrastructure needs to change and improve incalculably! Hussain Arif 19 years Student of Engineering We cannot agree more to Aamir’s tag line for the show ‘Dil par lagni chahiye, dil pe lagegi toh hi baat banegi!’ The sound of ‘O Re Chiraiya’ still reverberates in my mind. This show has succeeded in touching the pulse of the nation. SJ’s theme is so hardhitting that we focus on the sufferings of the real people and Aamir is hosting the show with perfection. Razia Khan 66 years Homemaker I think Indian television needs a show like SJ that creates a positive impact on the viewers. It’s about time that people start accepting the advancement of this era. I have watched three generations grow up and I have always tried to understand them all the while teaching them moral values. I have three beautiful daughters and two adorable independent granddaughters; they are a blessing in my life. That is why when I hear about the problems in India and all the harshness girls face like female foeticide, honour killing and dowry it just breaks my heart. That is why I truly bless Aamir Khan and the entire crew of Satyamev Jayate as they are doing a splendid job of revealing all these disturbing events that take place in our country. Dinesh Kadam 27 years Office Peon SJ is not about TRPs; it is a sincere effort that makes people aware and stand up for what is right. Talking about the emotional connect, there are moments when your eyes fill up with tears. I place my right hand on my heart and say “Satyamev Jayate!”
With the blessings of my father
DEV ANAND I extend my
Heartiest Congratulations To
THE DYNAMIC LEADER & PUBLISHER
T.P. AGGARWAL EMINENT CO-PUBLISHER
ABHAY SINHA AMIABLE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
BHAWANA SOMAAYA And The Entire Team On Their New Journey With Their New Film Journal
SUNEIL ANAND M/s. Navketan International
COLLECTIONS BOMBAY CIRCUIT FILM
TERRITORY
DISTRIBUTOR
WEEK
Bol Bachchan
Saurashtra
Shringar Films
Maximum * The Amazing Spider-Man Teri Meri Kahaani
Mumbai
Ishaqzaade
Mumbai
Mumbai
DDLJ
TOTAL (`)
GRAND TOTAL ( `)
1st day
CINEMAS 16
97,38,322
PVR SPE Films Of India
1 2
8 186
14,18,806 14,648,617.57
---
Raksha Entertainment Pvt. Ltd. Yash Raj Film Distributors
4
Yash Raj Film Distributors
1 (6
8 871 Comb. Week
shows) 1 (7 shows)
19,23,616
8,11,34,975
5,350
4,79,34,130
16,608 (7 shows)
12,32,67,677
DELHI-U.P. FILM
TERRITORY
DISTRIBUTOR
WEEK
CINEMAS
TOTAL
GRAND TOTAL
Maximum*
PVR
1
13
12,95,910
--
The Amazing Spider-Man
SPE Films Of India
1
--
8,24,00,000
--
CINEMAS TOTAL
EAST PUNJAB FILM
DISTRIBUTOR
WEEK
Maximum*
TERRITORY
PVR
1
The Amazing Spider-Man
SPE Films Of India
1
--
7
GRAND TOTAL
7,06,016
--
3,38,00,000
--
EASTERN CIRCUIT FILM
TERRITORY
DISTRIBUTOR
WEEK
CINEMAS TOTAL
GRAND TOTAL
Maximum*
W. Bengal
PVR
1
1
--
The Amazing Spider-Man W.Bengal
SPE Films Of India
1
--
1,46,00,000
--
The Amazing Spider-Man Bihar
SPE Films Of India
1
--
81,00,000
--
The Amazing Spider-Man Assam
SPE Films Of India
1
--
3,35,00,000
--
The Amazing Spider-Man Orissa
SPE Films Of India
1
--
2,45,00,000
--
75,134
C.P.C.I.RAJASTHAN FILM
TERRITORY
DISTRIBUTOR
WEEK
CINEMAS TOTAL
GRAND TOTAL
C.P.C.I.
PVR
1
4
2,80,235
--
The Amazing Spider-Man
C.P.
SPE Films Of India
1
--
2,03,00,000
--
The Amazing Spider-Man
C.I.
SPE Films Of India
1
--
1,32,00,000
--
The Amazing Spider-Man
Raj.
SPE Films Of India
1
--
2,06,00,000
--
TERRITORY
DISTRIBUTOR
WEEK
CINEMAS TOTAL
GRAND TOTAL
PVR
1
5
7,19,227
--
Nizam
SPE Films Of India
1
--
1,77,00,000
--
SPE Films Of India
1
--
1,59,00,000
--
SPE Films Of India
1
--
5,10,00,000
--
Maximum
*
SOUTH CIRCUIT FILM Maximum
*
The Amazing Spider-Man The Amazing Spider-Man The Amazing Spider-Man
Tamilnadu / Kerala
* Collections of PVR only
52
BLOCKBUSTER JULY 7, 2012
COLLECTIONS HOLLYWOOD BOX OFFICE FILM
DAYS
SCREENS
GRAND TOTAL
6
4,318
$ 59,202,809
13
3,239
$ 79,614,625
Disney
20
3,966
$149,357,744
Witness Protection
Lionsgate
13
Magic Mike
Warner Bros.
13
2,930
$ 52,614,360
Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted
Paramount / DreamWorks
34
3,715
$ 186,489,929
People Like Us
Disney
13
Vampire Hunter
Fox
20
2,757
$ 31,509,405
Marvel’s The Avenger
Disney
69
1,352
$ 608,482,552
Snow White and the Huntsman
Universal
41
1,641
$ 147,545,140
Prometheus
Fox
34
1,384
$ 120,145,980
Men in Black 3
Sony / Columbia
48
1,117
$ 171,063,435
Rock Of Ages
Warner Bros. / New Line
27
1,250
$ 36,096,963
That’s My Boy
Sony / Columbia
27
1,030
$ 35,283,735
Moonrise Kingdom
Focus
48
854
$ 21,414,718
The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel
Fox Searchlight
69
419
$ 41,085,984
End of the World
Focus
20
621
$
6,997,521
Safety Not Guaranted
FilmDistrict
34
164
$
1,873,413
The Hunger Games
Lionsgate
111
278
$ 403,995,077
Battleship
Universal
55
308
$ 64,009,235
Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax
Universal
132
Expecting
Lionsgate
55
203
$ 40,195,442
The Dictator
Paramount
55
130
$ 59,151,430
The Three Stooges
Fox
90
117
$ 43,847,770
The Cabin in the Woods
Lionsgate
90
149
$ 41,984,687
The Intouchables
Weinstein Company
42
68
$
2,774,832
Breasts of the Southern Wild
Fox Searchlight
13
7
$
334,446
Lola Versus
Fox Searchlight
34
30
$
248,547
The Amazing Spider-Man Ted Brave
DISTRIBUTOR Sony / Columbia Universal
Tyler Perry’s Madea’s 2,161
2,055
$ 33,526,218
$
6,449,678
Abraham Lincoln:
Seeking a Friend for the
202
$ 213,324,380
What to Expect When You’re
as on 4th July
BLOCKBUSTER JULY 7, 2012
53
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE MOST DYNAMIC PERSONALITY OF BOLLYWOOD
SHRI T.P. AGGARWAL WHOSE NEW ROLE AS PUBLISHER OF
WILL BE THE TALK-OF-THE-TRADE AND TO THE MOST DEPENDABLE EDITOR
BHAWANA SOMAAYA WHOSE NAME ITSELF SPELLS A SUPER SUCCESS NOW WE WILL HAVE THE FIRST COMPLETE TRADE WEEKLY OF THE FILM TRADE FOR SURE VINAY CHOKSEY VIP FILMS, Mumbai
OFFER
BUMPER
50%
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AMT ( `.) 1,00,000/60,000/35,000/35,000/30,000/-
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Dear T.P. Aggarwal, WE ARE THRILLED TO KNOW THAT YOU ARE THE BEST EVER PRESIDENT OF IMPPA (INDIAN MOTION PICTURES PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION) . NOW YOU HAVE TURNED A PUBLISHER OF BLOCKBUSTER, AN ALL NEW FILM TRADE WEEKLY WHICH IS DESTINED TO ATTAIN THE SPOT OF
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COVER STORY POST - MORTEM
Anurag Kashyap:
Redefining the Mainstream I
n true Bollywood style, Anurag Kashyap recently threw a success party celebrating the success of Gangs of Wasseypur. He is recently back from Cannes showcasing two films—Gangs of Wasseypur and Peddlers. With Ranbir Kapoor in his next film Bombay Velvet, Kashyap, whose debut film Paanch still remains unreleased, is on a high. And more significantly, he’s changing the face of Hindi cinema, meshing the unconventional and the commercial.
by Sonia Chopra Tell us about the Cannes experience…Your two-part Gangs of Wasseypur featured in the Directors’ Fortnight, while Peddlers, which you coproduced was shown in the Critics’ Week. It was great; Cannes is a very prestigious film festival. The idea is to reach out to as wide an audience as possible. Markets are opening around the world, and our agenda was to widen the markets for our films. We
are now collaborating with Parisbased international sales agent Elle Driver, who has taken on Gangs of Wasseypur and Peddlers and we are working to work closely with them to expand the market for these films. Gangs of Wasseypur is a success. Can you tell us a bit about the film and the challenges in making the film in two parts? I’ll answer the second part of your question first. Yes, it was a challenge, but the biggest struggle was to get the funding. It was difficult to make people understand why I wanted to
make such a long film and that too with two parts, that are independent, and yet form a story. But I knew the story would need that much time. Gangs…is mainly a revenge drama, with the story incorporating historic and social issues. The characters comprise the lower rungs of the mafia, and it spans six decades from 1941 to 2009. Gangs of Wasseypur (GoW) marks an interesting merging of the unconventional and mainstream …In fact you have proved to one of the pioneers of such cinema. BLOCKBUSTER JULY 7, 2012
57
You’re right in that GoW is straddling two worlds. We have an unconventional cast, but the film is equally commercial as Bollywood forms a huge part of the film’s story. Plus it’s still a funded by a huge studio (Viacom18 Motion Pictures). So these lines are constantly blurring aren’t they? Another example would be your casting Ranbir Kapoor for Bombay Velvet. The mainstream is getting redefined and the current crop of actors like Ranbir are all game for this change. They belong to a different sensibility— they want to explore and push limits. You’ve always said you’re on the fringes of the industry. With your casting Ranbir Kapoor for Bombay Velvet, do you now feel you are in the Bollywood central league? I don’t know about that. All I can say that I am really happy that
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BLOCKBUSTER JULY 7, 2012
I managed to get Ranbir onboard. He fits the role perfectly, he loves the role, and I can also breathe easy. I think Ranbir is a very fine actor. I was impressed with his talent from the time I saw Rocket Singh. What’s the film about? Bombay Velvet is based on Bombay of the ‘50s and `60s, showing the changing face of the city, the subculture and the jazz age. It’s a film noir, fictional story derived from the book Mumbai Fables. Is it true that Bombay Velvet and Bombay Fables were written together? Absolutely. Gyan Prakash, who is a renowned historian, has been writing the book and the film together. The idea is to let the book and film evolve together. Hasn’t it taken six years for the film to come together? Yes, six years! I have been trying to make this film since that long. I was
just not getting the kind of money and actors I wanted. Everything has to fall in place for a film to start. Thankfully it has happened now. What about the rest of the cast? We’re talking to a lot of people. Thoda ruko. We’ll announce in a couple of months. You’ve turned producer with AKFPL (Anurag Kashyap Film Private Limited), yet you’ve said you hate being a producer but have no choice? I say I have no choice, because there’s no other way to make the films I believe in. I am a creative person. As a producer, you have to handle the finances, not so much the creative aspect. I am awful with accounting; I don’t even understand the basics. I wish I could just concentrate on writing and direction. But you have to produce to make the films you believe in. Like Udaan…. Yes, look at Udaan’s example. When it was stuck for years, none of the studios saw the director’s vision. Some people gave bizarre suggestions like casting Anil Kapoor and his son in the film. I got onboard as producer with UTV and that’s how the film released. There’s a paucity of the creative producer in India. So creative people have no choice but to turn producers. What are the films you’re looking forward to in 2012? There are so many like Talaash and Miss Lovely. I am looking forward to my own films. I feel this is going to be a great year for Hindi cinema! Who are the filmmakers that inspire you? Martin Scorsese, David Fincher, Fritz Lang, Vittorio De Sica, Francis Ford Coppola, Guru Dutt. The list is endless!
HAPPENINGS
Success and failure are both facts of life.
Sneak-Peek into the glitterati world Weddings, book launch, fashion shows or award parties, our shutterbugs give you a sneak-peek into the glamour world.
Priyanka Chopra with Ileana D'cruz
Director Anurag Basu along with actor Priyanka Chopra, Ranbir Kapoor, Ileana D'cruz and Producer Siddharth Roy Kapoor at Barfi’s first look event Special screening of Bol Bachchan with star cast giving away tickets from box office at Fame theatre
BLOCKBUSTER JULY 7, 2012
63
HAPPENINGS
Director Ken Ghosh with actor Aditi Rao Hydari and Anupam Kher at launch of Komal Mehta’s book Nick Time
Actors Tusshar Kapoor , Ritesh Deshmukh, Sarah Jane Dias and Neha Sharma at the music launch of Kya Super Kool Hain Hum
Veteran Actor Naseeruddin Shah along with writer Satyen Nabar at the launch of latter’s bookA Bolt of Lightning
Cast and crew of Life is Good’s at its trailer launch
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BLOCKBUSTER JULY 7, 2012
Cast and crew of Aalaap at its music launch
HAPPENINGS
Anurag Kashyap at success party of his film Gangs of Wasseypur Part-I
Actor Salman Khan and Nargis Fakhri at Indo- American Awards function
Richa Chadda, Huma Qureshi and Reema Sen at Gangs of Wasseypur’s success party
Sonam Kapoor and Abhay Deol at the launch of home decor brand The Pure Concept.
Sushmita Sen receiving the Power Brand award
Irrfan Khan at press meet of The amazing Spider-man
BLOCKBUSTER JULY 7, 2012
65
HAPPENINGS
Actor Esha Deol with hubby Bharat Takhtani at their reception party
Actor Esha Deol with hubby Bharat Takhtani and mother Hema Malini at their reception party
Madhuri Dixit with husband Dr Shriram Nene at Suraj and Monali Godambe’s wedding reception.
Actor Vidyut, Priyanka and Ayushman along with designer Manish Malhotra walking the ramp at Caring with Style.
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BLOCKBUSTER JULY 7, 2012
Deepika unveils Melange's lifestyle ethinic look for Cocktail.
ISSUE
Habib Faisal –
‘Zoya had to be brutalized’ H
abib Faisal’s directorial debut Do Dooni Chaar explored the equations of a middle-class family and now Ishaqzaade has brought forth gender and societal issues. Did Faisal, in killing Zoya’s character in the end, disappoint those who wanted the strong female character to survive and thrive? This is what the maverick writer-director says… I’ll get a pat on the back from feminists or critics.” It does not work that way.
by Sonia Chopra
Q
Ishaqzaade’s Zoya (Parinneti Chopra) was rebellious and keen to break patriarchal conventions. Yet many feel that her tragic end gave an anti-woman message…
A
A writer or director creates with their instincts. The audience is made up of all kinds of people, and each is bound to have a different opinion. Several celebrities and hardcore feminists have praised the film. So, you can never be sure if you went wrong or right, because it’s rare to get a unanimous feedback on your work. All I can say is that I stand by The heroes are my story. As for people feeling the film is anti-woman, I say, let the Big Moose; the women decide.
Q
Your directorial debut Do Dooni Chaar too had interesting female characters.
Can you comment on why Zoya’s character was made to die in the end?
According to me, there is still loads of unfairness and gender bias in the society. That is why Zoya is brutalized in the end. Because that’s the reality. Of course, those who fight oppression and manage to overcome become role-models.
it’s Veronica who is always more interesting.
A
That’s because women excite me a lot. They are more exciting. The heroes are the Big Moose; it’s Veronica who is always more interesting. I don’t say that as a hardcore feminist. I am sensitive to all kinds of inequalities—from gender, to caste, to creed. The thing is, women all around me are so strong, their spunk inspires me.
Q
Do you think directors are under pressure to include more contemporary female characters?
A
Q A
I think writers, directors and creative people make films about what matters to them. You don’t make a film thinking, “If I add such- and-such feminist character,
But if a girl watches Ishaqzaade and says I want to be a spunky girl like Zoya and fight unfairness— even if that dream has been sold— I think one has succeeded. And that is what one strives for.
Q
Do you think more positive female characters in film will have an off-screen effect as well?
A
I doubt it. The audience may make such films a success, but do they treat the women in their lives any differently? The success of women onscreen does not mean that attitudes are changing. That is a long battle and will take time.
BLOCKBUSTER JULY 7, 2012
67
JUKE BOX Personality– Shabbir Ahmed
The lyrics of Chalao na are inspired from my childhood memories L yricist Shabbir Ahmed, the man behind last year’s extremely popular romantic song ‘Teri meri prem kahani’ from mega hit Bodyguard is back with a bang. His song ‘Chalao na naino se’ from upcoming film Bol Bachchan is already being appreciated by the masses and he is all geared up to deliver some smashing hits this year too. Blockbuster presents you a rendezvous with the man himself, whose feet are firmly on the ground despite giving some back-to-back hits like Soni de nakhre, Dupatta tera nau rang da, Dil mein baji guitar to name a few. by Pooja Sharma
Having worked with most of the dignitaries of Bollywood who are you looking forward to work with? Frankly speaking I would love to work for Salman exclusively. Even after giving hits like Partner and God Tussi Great Ho, I was unemployed for two years! Making ends meet was next to impossible for my family. At that time of severe crisis in my life Salman Bhai offered me Bodyguard and the rest you know is history. He has a golden heart.
As a lyricist how was your journey in Bollywood so far? All I can say is that my journey so far has been good.There are ups and downs in everyone’s career. Sometimes your work is appreciated while sometimes it’s criticized. But all you can do is work harder and then of course the results will be fruitful. You got married recently…so how is life post marriage? I am enjoying my married life. Post marriage my responsibilities have increased. Along with my work I have to manage my family life too. Then you become more concerned towards your family and the responsibilities that come along with it. After Bodyguard you have teamed up again with Himesh Reshammiya for Bol Bachchan... So should we look forward to some more chartbusters from you? Talking about Bodyguard everyone knows that the Salman-Himesh combination is hit, so I had just added my lyrics to this combination. And Salman Bhai has a terrific music sense. That’s the reason why Teri meri prem kahaani did so well. And talking about Bol Bachchan, for this film I have again teamed up with Himesh.So Insha-Allah we hope to re-create the same magic. I have been receiving positive response for my song Chalao na from Bol Bachchan. Friends and well-wishers have started sending me congratulatory messages stating
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BLOCKBUSTER JULY 7, 2012
There is a fun story behind the lyrics of this song, during my childhood days, whenever my parents used to scold me, I used to warn them that I’ll jump in the well and become bhoot (ghost) and scare them. So from that incident I penned the lyrics which goes like Shaamil na ho…Shaamil na ho humra bhooton mein naam re. Bol Bachchan is a very nice film and already the music of the film is being appreciated so Insha-Allah I pray that the movie is liked by the audience equally and it becomes a huge hit.
the song is going to be a sure-shot hit. And I am very glad with such kind of response. Tell us more about your song Chalao na naino se from Bol Bachchan… Himesh Bhai composed a tune and I wrote the lyrics Chalao na naino se baan re. And when Rohit Shetty and Ajay Devgn heard the song, they instantly fell in love with it. In fact Rohit said “I was looking out for such kind of song only.Don’t change anything, just give it a romantic touch’’. The lyrics of this song are very desi.
But still isn’t there anyone on your wish-list with whom you would love to work with? Oh yeah definitely there is a person whom I would love to work with. It’s my long cherished dream to work with the legendary A.R. Rahman. We are already in talks but on which project we’ll be working together isn’t finalized yet. So all I can do is keep my fingers crossed and hope for the best. What are your upcoming projects? I am doing Son of Sardar, Khiladi 786 and Ohh My God with Himesh again. Then I have also penned a song for Priety Zinta’s debut venture as a producer Ishqk In Paris whose music is given by Sajid –Wajid. Then there is Zilla Ghaziabad, Swami and Romeo Juliet whose music is given by Ismail Darbar.
JUKE BOX Music Review
Pritam’s Cocktail
is intoxicating W by Pooja Sharma
ith an array of songs from different genres assembled together in one album,the soundtrack of Cocktail justifies its title aptly. Pritam’s composition and Irshad Kamil’s lyrics have turned out to be a fabulous combination, with the duo churning out some of the most peppy and foot-tapping numbers. Tumhi Ho Bandhu is a song full of high-energy music, coupled with rustic vocals of Kavita Sheth and Neeraj Shridhar. The song is already topping the charts. Pritam’s attempt of mixing Hindustani classical vocalist Kavita Seth’s voice with youthful music pays off handsomely. Next on the list comes Daaru Desi rendered by the gifted Benny Dayal and
Shalmali Kholgade. Pritam has created an innovative track using the acoustic guitar. Though the best part about the song is Irshad Kamil’s beautiful lyrics, which goes like ‘Chadhi mujhe yaari teri aisi, jaise daaru desi’. After listening to this number anyone would love to dedicate it to their beloved friends. In Yaariyan’s rock version, both Agnee’s K Mohan and Shilpa Rao have done a commendable job. But Sunidhi Chauhan and Arijit Singh’s rendition of
its reprise version, which has more of an acoustic feel to it, is more soulful. Up next is peppy Second Hand Jawani the only song penned by the gifted Amitabh Bhattacharya.Its lyrics ‘Teri banned jawani, nahi chahiye mujhko teri second hand jawani’ ,are very mischievous and in some ways this number reminds you of the song Twist from Love Aaj kal. The song has received an apt treatment from singers Miss Pooja, Neha Kakkar and Nakkash Aziz. Tera Naam Japdi Phiraan is a groovy number. Javed Bashir’s vocal has done wonders to the song. With its Hinglish lyrics and the English part crooned by Nikhil D’souza the song is already a hit among the masses. Its remix version sung by the same singers, is also worth listening, though
Top 5 Songs of the week 1. Tumhi ho Bandhu - Cocktail 2. Daaru Desi - Cocktail 3. Pani Da Rang - Vicky Donor 4. Chinta Ta Ta Chita Chita Rowdy Rathore 5. Dhadang Dhadang Rowdy Rathore
Cocktail Music Director: Pritam Lyricist: Irshad Kamil, Amitabh Bhattacharya. Tracks: 11 Ratings:
it retains the touch of the original version but its speedy tempo and faster beats makes it commendable. Luttna (Saif Ul Malook) has the elements of rock, Sufi and qawwali all mashed up together. Pritam earns brownie points with the energetic dubstep sound arrangements which make the song innovative and aggressive in its appeal. The song is sung by Masuma Anwar, Sahir Ali Bagga and Anupam Amod. Last on the list is Jugni. Arif Lohar’s mesmerizing vocals accompanied by Harshdeep Kaur is pure bliss, to be enjoyed to your heart’s content. Not included in the soundtrack ensemble are the two bonus tracks composed by Honey Singh i.e. Angreji Beat and Main Sharaabi. Angreji Beat is sung by Gippy Grewal while Honey Singh and Imran Aziz Milan has contributed their voice for Main Sharaabi. Angreji beat is outrageously foot-tapping and a highly intoxicating number. It’s a very edgy number, high with the elements of club and Bhangra track. With Cocktail Pritam delivers one of his best works after a very long time and undoubtedly it’s one of the year’s best albums so far. Cocktail is directed by Homi Adajania. The film is scheduled for a theatrical release on 13 July 2012.
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SIGNATURE
VOL 1 ISSUE 1 • JULY 7, 2012
Rain & Romance PUBLISHER T.P. Aggarwal CO-PUBLISHER Abhay Sinha EDITOR IN CHIEF Bhawana Somaaya ASSISTANT EDITOR Sonia Chopra SENIOR CORRESPONDENT Ashok Anchan REPORTERS Aliya Mukadam Pooja Sharma ART DIRECTOR P G Ghawali ASST GRAPHIC DESIGNER Suman Vishwakarma CEO Ashish Kaul HEAD-PROD & ADMIN Narendra Gupta NATIONAL HEAD SALES & MARKETING Abhijeet Thakar EXEC-SALES & MARKETING Jean D’souza CO-ORDINATOR Shainaz Sheikh For Advertising and Business Enquiries please contact : Abhijeet Thakar abhijeet.thakar@starblockbuster.com +91 9967111399 Printed & Published by T.P. Aggarwal for Star World Wide Infotech Ltd,Star House, Plot No. 217/239, S.V.P. Nagar, Mhada,4 Bungalows, Andheri (W), Mubai—400053. Tel: 022-26375442. Printed At Taco Vision Pvt. Ltd., 38-A&B, Govt press(es) is /are installed Industrial Estate, Charkop, Kandivali (W), Mumbai-67. All rights reserved. Reproduction or interpretation of any matter published in thismagazine, in part or whole, or in any language or format, without the prior permission of the publishers, is strictly prohibited and will be liable for legal action, and cost and consequences thereof. REG: R.N.I. MAHENG1386/13/12012-TC
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omance in Hindi films has remained synonymous with rain sequences and songs. Who can forget the spunky Aishwarya Rai dancing to ‘barso re megha…’ in Guru or even a candid Kareena Kapoor splashing in the rain entertaining Rahul Bose in Chameli and prior to that Madhoo going wild with ‘Dil hai chota sa…’ in Roja. Bhawana Somaaya Whether it was ‘Pyar hua iqrar hua…’ featuring EDITOR IN CHIEF Nargis and Raj Kapoor walking under a wind blown umbrella in Shri 420, or more recently Aamir Khan and Gracy Singh dancing to ‘Kaale megha kale megha…’ in Lagaan, the poet has repeatedly drawn his muse from the monsoon season in cinema. On top of my rain favorites is ‘Kaali ghata chaye mora jiya ghabaraye...’ from Bimal Roy’s Sujata, the story of a Harijan girl reared by a Brahmin family. Self assured in her simplicity Nutan spends major part of the day attending to household chores. One such day, the sky line changes colour and the clouds thunder. Sujata runs to her room and throws open the windows to let the first rain drops fall on her face. The close-up shot of Nutan smiling at the clouds and expressing her desire for a companion is refreshing and sensitive. Equally desolate yet beautiful is Mithu (Shabana Azmi) in Gulzar’s Namkeen, when she sets out for her morning stroll shrouded in a flowing black shawl, mesmerised by the mist and fresh dew drops. Shot amidst swaying trees and rendered by Asha Bhosle, ‘Phir se aiyo Barkha bidesi …’ is among the memorable lyrics of Gulzar. It is interesting how perceptions alter with time. Four decades ago, a shy Jaya Bhaduri taking shelter inside a cave and singing ‘Bol re papi hara…’ in Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s Guddi was heart rending. Later we were as charmed by an uninhibited Kajol gyrating to ‘Mere khwabon mein jo aaye…’ in Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge that is appealing. I would say that to a great extent Zeenat Aman singing ‘Hai hai ye majboori…’ draped in a clinging saree alluring Manoj Kumar to join her in the water splash in Roti Kapda Aur Makaan was the beginning of rain sequences. The hero has to appear for a job interview and resists her advances but she is too tempting and the hero finally relents but remains self conscious. In contrast Amitabh Bachchan and Smita Patil surrender to the monsoon madness in ‘Aaj rapat jaiyo…’ in Prakash Mehra’s Namak Halaal. The song is a celebration of love and carnal desire. A trend setter of sorts is also ‘Kaate nahin kat te…’ in Mr. India where Seema (Sridevi) sways seductively, allowing her chiffon saree to fly with the breeze. Her abandon is a reaction to love. In contrast Akshay Kumar’s ‘Dekho zara dekho barsaat ki jhadi…’ in Yeh Dillagi is a reaction to the moment, a physical and an emotional release! Moushumi Chatterjee and Amitabh Bachchan walking down Marine Drive hand-in-hand in slashing rains to ‘Rimjhim gire saawan…’ in Manzil is an ever green image of torrential rain in the city of Mumbai.
bhawanasomaaya@gmail.com www.bhawanasomaaya.com
HIGHLIGHTS Cover Story: Ajay Devgn talks about Bol Bachchan
Telly Time: Satyamev Jayate— The Public’s Voice
Post-Mortem: Anurag Kashyap on Gangs of Wasseypur
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QUOTE UNQUOTE Celebrity Tweets BOLLYWOOD
Sunidhi Chauhan @SunidhiChauhan5 Loving the response for Indian Idol 6 :) thank you for your love and affection people! Humbled. Dia Mirza @deespeak My favorite season in Mumbai has begun!!! Love the rains :) Neil Nitin Mukesh @NeilNMukesh Saw a beautiful Hanuman ji temple in nadi fiji. Went with my entire unit and prayed for everyones happiness. Felt good. :) be happy always! Karan Johar @kjohar25 Every single day i have a new ambition...and all of it is work related...i aspire to change that and wish for personal peace...i never do... Mahesh Bhatt @MaheshNBhatt Ponderings: Do you want to be right, or do you want to be happy? Especially hard when you ARE right! Anupam Kher @AnupamPkher What is important in Life is LIFE and not the result of life. :)
Bipasha Basu @bipsluvurself Lil Baby Bino wanted to play with my bangles! Adorable!Amazing time at the singapore zoo! Akshay Kumar @akshaykumar Since Rowdy Rathore released, my son had only been talking about Rowdy. Until today! I took him to see Madagascar 3 and he’s still laughing. Amitabh Bachchan @SrBachchan When you play your opponent in his country, you play not one but two players - your opponent, and the crowds in the stands. Aamir Khan @aamir_khan My congrats to all the people who’ve been working in the field of childcare. The bill being passed is a result of your hard work. Thank you! Shahid Kapoor @shahidkapoor @FarOutAkhtar looking forward to the iifa weekend madness with you man ........ Brrring it Singapore. Priyanka Chopra@priyankachopra Some serious girl bonding... IIFA 2012!
HOLLYWOOD
Jennifer Lopez@JLo Been so busy with tour rehearsals... hope you are all having an amazing day! Remember to thank God for all your blessings! #grateful Gwyneth Paltrow@GwynethPaltrow Just arrived in Raleigh, N.C. to start Ironman 3! Any restaurant recommendations? Darren Hayes@darrenhayes Gay customers may not have the same (equal) rights as most - but our dollars are worth the same http://bit.ly/ MpgEzA #equalmarriage Tiffani Thiessen@TAThiessen After an amazing lunch @ ABC Kitchen I fall asleep!
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Bruno Mars @BrunoMars I want you guys to know that I’m halfway done with my second album. I couldn’t be happier :) Tom Bergeron @Tom_Bergeron Every time I see John Malkovich sweettalking Siri in the iPhone ad, I feel a little creeped out. William Shatner @WilliamShatner With Starbuck safe, I am off to South Africa tonight. I do not know what my connectivity will be like while away. My best, Bill. Emma Caulfield@emmacaulfield It’s amazing how far we went to uncover gross violations of our civil liberties with Watergate, and now we have The Patriot Act. —Sonia Chopra
MEMORIES Amrish Puri
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ne of the most dreaded villains of his time Amrish Puri has created a benchmark in the world of cinema that till date remains untouched .With his venomspewing dialogue delivery skills and horrifying on-screen looks, he gave some of his most stellar performances in the history of Hindi cinema. His portrayal of a ruthless villain will always remain an inspiration for generations to come.June 22nd marked the 80th birth anniversary of our beloved villain,and on this occassion Blockbuster revisits the legend’s enviable career graph in Bollywood. Born in Punjab, Amrish came to Mumbai after completing his graduation.Interestingly, Amrish had come to Mumbai with the dreams of becoming a hero but destiny had something else in store for him. The first film he was signed for was Reshma Aur Shera. Prior to his entry in mainstream Hindi cinema, he was a well known stage actor having worked with the likes of Satyadev Dubey and Girish Karnad. Very few people knew that he was the sibling of Madan Puri, a wellestablished actor who was known for essaying negative roles in Bollywood. Debuting in Bollywood at the age of 40, Amrish’s dominating screen presence and power-packed performance won him many accolades. In his career spanning three decades he worked in more than 400 films .Unbelievably, he worked in Hindi, Kannada, Marathi, Hollywood, Punjabi, Malayalam , Telugu and Tamil films and was equally successful in all these industries. But his performance as Mogambo in Shekhar Gupta’s Mr. India (1987) became the turning point of his career. When he delivered the dialogue ‘Mogambo khush hua’ in his trademark baritone, Bollywood witnessed the birth of a legend. He also became extremely popular for his role Mola Ram in Steven Spielberg’s
MOGAMBO Yaad Aata Hai...
Hollywood film Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984) .To make his character appear authentic in this film he even shaved off his head. But even after finishing Spielberg’s film he kept his head shaved so that the wigs he used in his films looked more convincing. Spielberg was left spell-bound by Amrish’s acting prowess and later he was often heard quoting in interviews that,” Amrish is my favorite villain- The best the world has ever produced and ever will! " Apart for his villainous acts he is also remembered for his character based performances. He appeared in
Some less known facts about our beloved Mogambo: • Amrish Puri had entered Bollywood at the age of 40. • Before entering Bollywood Amrish was working with Employees State Insur ance Corporation. • In spite of ‘Mogambo’ becoming an iconic character, he was not even nomi nated at any of the award functions for his stellar performance in Mr. India. • Unlike his on-screen avatars he was a complete teetotaler. • He had a successful career in Hindi, Kannada, Marathi, Hollywood, Punjabi, Malayalam, Telugu and Tamil films as well!
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several films in positive supporting roles like the conservative father in 1995’s blockbuster Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge, a kind-hearted businessman in Pardes and the genial grandfather in Mujhe Kuch Kehna Hai. Amrish’s role in the 1998 comedy Chachi 420 was evidence of his versatility. He was one of those rare actors who used to work hard even when he was aware about the script’s incapability to do wonders at the box-office. On the personal front, he was married to Urmilla Divekar and had two children Rajiv and Namrata. Unlike his screen avatars, in real life, Amrish was a completely different personality. Says Namrata, his daughter,”As a father he was very protective. The world had a perception of him being the hardest person but in reality he was the softest person I have ever known.” When asked about her most cherished moment with her beloved father, she quickly adds, “The time when I went out with him on his film locations was our special bonding time. I usually used to accompany him on most of his sets but during the filming of Jaan, the time we spend in Kulu –Manali will be etched in my memories forever.” This gentleman had always led a disciplined lifestyle, exercised regularly and was a teetotaler. Even at the age of 72 he was completely fit but unfortunately on 12th January 2005 due to cerebral hemorrhage this legendary villain of Bollywood bid adieu to his fans and film fraternity. Mogambo was no more and Bollywood lost one of its most cherished gems forever.
TRENDS
Taking Stock:
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2012 So Far!
t the beginning of each year, speculations are made, bets laid, and the worth of stars tabulated. And yet, each year, without fail springs its share of surprises. The mega-budget multi-starrers flop miserably, a little-big film steals the limelight, and a new star storms out of nowhere. Now that half of 2012 is over, we thought it was the perfect time to reflect back and take stock of the six months gone by. Here’s presenting a broad-sheet of the glass full and glass empty. by Sonia Chopra
The Predictable Successes: The Formula Still Works! The more things change, the more they remain the same. Even though our cinema has expanded to become more inclusive of different kinds of films, the song-and-dance routine with traditional roles for hero and heroine still seems to work. Rowdy Rathore One of the many South films remade in Hindi, the ‘rowdy’ genre of films began with Wanted. Most of our leading men have had their go at this genre—the torchbearer being Salman Khan. In Rowdy Rathore you have Akshay Kumar beat up the baddies, play the comedian, and romance the beauteous Sonakshi Sinha.
were delighted by Hrithik being the one filling in for Amitabh Bachchan and loved his performance. Agneepath 2012 had the colourcorrected frames, a visually striking landscape, and Chikni Chameli, but it could not beat the classiness of the original. Still, the item song was a hit, and while purists were upset, the film went on to cross the 100-crore mark. Housefull 2
Agneepath The film, a remake of the Late Mukul Anand’s Agneepath, disappointed and delighted the audience equally. Many
The ‘ Hat Ke’ Hits Breaking Bollywood conventions of a larger-than-life hero, victimized heroine, and multiple songs shot in foreign locations, these films dared to tell different stories and were applauded by the audience. . Kahaani A female central protagonist, a murdermystery, no item songs, dark humour, and no hero. The film defied all conventions and yet was a resounding
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An illogical story, loud humour, dozens of songs, and gorgeous stars— Housefull 2 proved that this formula still works. A huge success, the film was panned by critics for its devoid-of-logic story and juvenile humour. But that is exactly what connected with the audience. The audience also adored the multi-star cast and music. Housefull2 was Akshay Kuamr’s first film crossing the 100 crore mark. Jannat 2 Emraan Hashmi may not be in the 100-core bracket as yet, but the opening of Jannat 2 cemented his position as a mass star. While multiplexes opened fairly well, the single-screens were packed to capacity. The film’s music by Pritam also pulled in the audiences. The film proved that the Bhattformula—Emraan Hashmi+glamorous heroine+Pritam’s music is infallible at the box-office.
hit. The film, both a commercial and critical hit, cemented Vidya Balan as a thinking actor who could also draw in the audience. Ishaqzaade A heroine that prefers guns over jhumkaas, a morally confused hero, and a “sad ending”. The film was the opposite of the formula mainstream films that prefer ending the story on a happy note. But despite writer-director
Habib Faisal’s tearful ending the film was a hit, catapulting Parineeti Chopra and Arjun Kapoor into A-list stardom.
The Critically-Acclaimed Flops: These films may not have been super-hits, but were critically acclaimed for the unique subjects and masterful storytelling. The Forest Oscar-nominee Ashwin Kumar’s chilling film was about a holidaying couple stuck in a jungle lodge with a maneating tiger on prowl. The film had a pro-nature message.
Paan Singh Tomar The true story of a sportsman-turneddacoit, the film had a non-star in the leading role, no running-around-the trees romance, and zero candycoloured frames. But what made the film a commercial and cirtical success was the extraordinary story, Irrfan Khan’s masterful performance and Tigmanshu Dhulia’s astute storytelling.
Shanghai A gripping political drama, this film has been hailed by the critics, some
Vicky Donor Marking John Abraham’s debut as producer, the film had unknown faces as its leading cast, and a story revolving around sperm donation. But the humour and earnest performaces were loved by the viewers, the A-certificate notwithstanding.
calling it the best they’ve seen in 2012. But despite the positive reviews, the film has opened to a luke-warm response. Love Wrinkle-Free The film told the story about an endearing, dysfunctional family in Goa. Chaos breaks loose when the middle-aged couple realizes they are pregnant. Question Mark ‘?’ Made with rank newcomers, the horror film was about a few college kids celebrating their graduation in a farmhouse that turns out to be haunted. Arjun: The Warrior Prince The film, focusing on Arjuna’s transformation from into a warrior prince, before the war, was praised for its visual wizardry.
The Star-Studded Flops Who said stars guarantee hits? Each year throws up several star-studded flops, that make us question the importance we give to stars. Teri Meri Kahaani Priyanka Chopra has the success of
the film performed poorly. Agent Vinod Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor’s onscreen pairing was expected to attract a massive response, but we all know what happened to the film!
Department Directed by Ram Gopal Varma, Department Included big names like Sanjay Dutt and Amitabh Bachchan in its cast, and yet failed to make a mark. Players The film was an adaptation of Hollywood hit The Italian Job. Despite the story and stars like Abhishek Bachchan, Bipasha Basu and Sonam Kapoor, the
Agneepath and Don 2 behind her. Even Shahid enjoys a huge following. That the two stars had dated should’ve worked for the film. But despite the pairing of the much-in-demand stars,
film flopped miserably. Tezz Ajay Devgn, AniL Kapoor, Mohanlal, Kangna Ranaut—all these multiple stars could not save the fate of the film.
Dangerous Ishhq Karisma Kapoor a major star in the 90s was the USP of this reincarnation drama, but the film flopped miserably. Jodi Breakers Bipasha Basua and Madhavan have a list of successful films behind them, but they could not help the fate of the film. BLOCKBUSTER JULY 7, 2012
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TREASURE BOX Rekha a
The pic was taken in 1998 by ace photographer Jayesh Seth. This image remains one of his personal favourites, as he feels it portrays the complete beauty of an Indian woman.
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I take great pleasure in conveying our best wishes for a blockbuster success to the entire team of Blockbuster, especially, Mr.T.P.Aggarwal – Publisher; Mr.Ashish Kaul (CEO) and Ms. Bhawana Somaaya- Editor.
We are sure that Blockbuster will deliver great value for the entire Indian entertainment Industry. The Entertainment & Media Industry of India has grown from strength to strength in the international arena over the past decade, and Blockbuster will help to showcase the phenomenal range of innovations, talent and creativity that our industry has to offer to the world at large.
Here's looking forward to the real Blockbuster every Saturday!
With Best Wishes,
Harindra Singh Vice Chairman & Managing Director Percept Limited
percept limited p22, raghuvanshi estate, 11/ 12, s b marg, lower parel, mumbai 400 013, india. T: + 91 22 30448400 F: + 91 22 24911281 W: www.perceptindia.in