Awarapan - Movie Review

    Choosing an interesting story is difficult. But doing justice to the story is nothing short of an achievement. AWARAPAN, directed by Mohit Suri, gets it right on both the levels -- on paper first, on celluloid later.

    For Hindi moviegoers, the story may remind you of Rakesh Roshan's KOYLA [SRK, Madhuri, Amrish Puri], but in actuality, AWARAPAN borrows from director Kim Ji-woon's Korean film A BITTERSWEET LIFE [2005; Korean title: DALKOMHAN INSAENG; starring Lee Byung-Hun, Kim Young-Cheol, Shin Mina]. Nothing wrong with being inspired, since every director has his way of interpreting a story. Also, Mohit adapts the content to suit Indian sensibilities.

    AWARAPAN is as raw as a gash inflicted by a rod. A number of Hindi films have plunged into the underbelly of the underworld/mafia in the past, so how different is AWARAPAN from films of its ilk? AWARAPAN packs in all this and something extra in those 2 hours -- a love story and spirituality.

    More than anything else, AWARAPAN marks the coming of age of one of the most under-rated actors on this side of the Atlantic -- Emraan Hashmi. Shunning and discarding his by-now-famous casanova image, Emraan enacts a role that every actor craves for in his heart since the opportunities are limited in the masala set-up. And the youngster interprets it with aplomb.

    To sum up, AWARAPAN has style and substance, both. The film packs a solid punch in those 12 reels.

    AWARAPAN is the story of man called Shivam [Emraan Hashmi], who searches for joy but finds pain and loneliness. It is the journey of a heartbroken lover who, in order to escape from the ghosts of his tragic past, dedicates himself to serve his gangster boss Malik [Ashutosh Rana], who runs a chain of hotels in Hong Kong.

    One day, Malik asks Shivam to do an unusual job for him. He asks him to keep an eye on his young mistress Reema [Mrinalini Sharma] while he is away on a brief business trip. Reema is a young Pakistani girl who is a victim of human trafficking. Malik had 'bought' her in the flesh market in Bangkok.

    The brief is clear: If Reema is found cheating behind Malik's back, Shivam has to eliminate her. From the moment Shivam sets his eyes on Reema, his frozen past begins to raise its head. He is reminded of his lost love [Shriya Saran] and how he had failed to save it from a catastrophe.

    And then one night Shivam is shocked to discover that the innocent looking Reema has a secret boyfriend [Rehaan Khan], whom she has tucked away and is planning to run away with. Does Shivam remain loyal to Malik and execute his orders or does he take on his wrath by daring to go against him?

    Frankly, you need to have a strong stomach to absorb a film like AWARAPAN. The film is dark, serious and violent. The romance, therefore, is minimal, but whenever injected in the plotline acts as a coolant.

    Director Mohit Suri continues to grow as a storyteller. Note the sequence when Shriya's father catches Shriya and Emraan red-handed and the confrontation that ensues, leaving Emraan's life devastated. Note another sequence: Emraan walking up to Ashutosh Rana and after a verbal duel, fires at him from point-blank range. There're more sequences that only illustrate the fact that Mohit is amongst the finest storytellers today.

    But, on the flip side, the excessive violence can be off-putting for a section of viewers. Emraan being buried alive or the constant gunshots and gore can compel you to take your eyes off the screen. This film is definitely not for the faint-hearted.

    Pritam's musical score is refreshing. The tunes are fresh and so are the voices. Cinematography [Raaj Chakravarti] is good, although a few sequences could've been better lit in some scenes. The background score [Raju Singh] is excellent. Dialogues are a highpoint. The dialogue between Ashutosh Rana and Mrinalini, drawing parallels with a sick puppy, is superb.

    As mentioned at the outset, Emraan delivers a magnificent performance. When the year draws to a close and the 'Best Actor' nominations are being formalized, including this performance would only be appreciating and acknowledging qualitative work.

    Ashutosh Rana is splendid and all you want to ask the actor is, aap kahan thhe itne mahine? Shriya Saran has a small role, but she sparkles every time she appears on screen. Mrinalini is a talent to watch out for. She's outstanding!

    Purab Kohli is superb as the eccentric nephew of Ashutosh Rana. Ashish Vidyarthi is wasted. Salil Acharya is a welcome addition to the list of talented actors. Shaad [introduced in WOH LAMHE] is very good. Rehaan Khan [introduced in JAANA] is hardly there. Atul Parchure is nice.

    On the whole, AWARAPAN is a well-made product that should appeal to its target audience -- the youth, especially those who appreciate genuinely hatke themes. At the box-office, the film will be affected due to multiple releases in a week. Releasing the film in an open week, without oppositions, would've only helped. However, AWARAPAN should grow with a strong word of mouth.
    Source URL: http://trendgrafitiinternasional.blogspot.com/2007/06/
    Visit Trend Grafity for daily updated images of art collection

Awarapan - Movie Review

    Choosing an interesting story is difficult. But doing justice to the story is nothing short of an achievement. AWARAPAN, directed by Mohit Suri, gets it right on both the levels -- on paper first, on celluloid later.

    For Hindi moviegoers, the story may remind you of Rakesh Roshan's KOYLA [SRK, Madhuri, Amrish Puri], but in actuality, AWARAPAN borrows from director Kim Ji-woon's Korean film A BITTERSWEET LIFE [2005; Korean title: DALKOMHAN INSAENG; starring Lee Byung-Hun, Kim Young-Cheol, Shin Mina]. Nothing wrong with being inspired, since every director has his way of interpreting a story. Also, Mohit adapts the content to suit Indian sensibilities.

    AWARAPAN is as raw as a gash inflicted by a rod. A number of Hindi films have plunged into the underbelly of the underworld/mafia in the past, so how different is AWARAPAN from films of its ilk? AWARAPAN packs in all this and something extra in those 2 hours -- a love story and spirituality.

    More than anything else, AWARAPAN marks the coming of age of one of the most under-rated actors on this side of the Atlantic -- Emraan Hashmi. Shunning and discarding his by-now-famous casanova image, Emraan enacts a role that every actor craves for in his heart since the opportunities are limited in the masala set-up. And the youngster interprets it with aplomb.

    To sum up, AWARAPAN has style and substance, both. The film packs a solid punch in those 12 reels.

    AWARAPAN is the story of man called Shivam [Emraan Hashmi], who searches for joy but finds pain and loneliness. It is the journey of a heartbroken lover who, in order to escape from the ghosts of his tragic past, dedicates himself to serve his gangster boss Malik [Ashutosh Rana], who runs a chain of hotels in Hong Kong.

    One day, Malik asks Shivam to do an unusual job for him. He asks him to keep an eye on his young mistress Reema [Mrinalini Sharma] while he is away on a brief business trip. Reema is a young Pakistani girl who is a victim of human trafficking. Malik had 'bought' her in the flesh market in Bangkok.

    The brief is clear: If Reema is found cheating behind Malik's back, Shivam has to eliminate her. From the moment Shivam sets his eyes on Reema, his frozen past begins to raise its head. He is reminded of his lost love [Shriya Saran] and how he had failed to save it from a catastrophe.

    And then one night Shivam is shocked to discover that the innocent looking Reema has a secret boyfriend [Rehaan Khan], whom she has tucked away and is planning to run away with. Does Shivam remain loyal to Malik and execute his orders or does he take on his wrath by daring to go against him?

    Frankly, you need to have a strong stomach to absorb a film like AWARAPAN. The film is dark, serious and violent. The romance, therefore, is minimal, but whenever injected in the plotline acts as a coolant.

    Director Mohit Suri continues to grow as a storyteller. Note the sequence when Shriya's father catches Shriya and Emraan red-handed and the confrontation that ensues, leaving Emraan's life devastated. Note another sequence: Emraan walking up to Ashutosh Rana and after a verbal duel, fires at him from point-blank range. There're more sequences that only illustrate the fact that Mohit is amongst the finest storytellers today.

    But, on the flip side, the excessive violence can be off-putting for a section of viewers. Emraan being buried alive or the constant gunshots and gore can compel you to take your eyes off the screen. This film is definitely not for the faint-hearted.

    Pritam's musical score is refreshing. The tunes are fresh and so are the voices. Cinematography [Raaj Chakravarti] is good, although a few sequences could've been better lit in some scenes. The background score [Raju Singh] is excellent. Dialogues are a highpoint. The dialogue between Ashutosh Rana and Mrinalini, drawing parallels with a sick puppy, is superb.

    As mentioned at the outset, Emraan delivers a magnificent performance. When the year draws to a close and the 'Best Actor' nominations are being formalized, including this performance would only be appreciating and acknowledging qualitative work.

    Ashutosh Rana is splendid and all you want to ask the actor is, aap kahan thhe itne mahine? Shriya Saran has a small role, but she sparkles every time she appears on screen. Mrinalini is a talent to watch out for. She's outstanding!

    Purab Kohli is superb as the eccentric nephew of Ashutosh Rana. Ashish Vidyarthi is wasted. Salil Acharya is a welcome addition to the list of talented actors. Shaad [introduced in WOH LAMHE] is very good. Rehaan Khan [introduced in JAANA] is hardly there. Atul Parchure is nice.

    On the whole, AWARAPAN is a well-made product that should appeal to its target audience -- the youth, especially those who appreciate genuinely hatke themes. At the box-office, the film will be affected due to multiple releases in a week. Releasing the film in an open week, without oppositions, would've only helped. However, AWARAPAN should grow with a strong word of mouth.
    Source URL: http://trendgrafitiinternasional.blogspot.com/2007/06/
    Visit Trend Grafity for daily updated images of art collection

Aap Kaa Surroor - Movie Review

    Television producer. Music composer. Singer. And now actor. Oh yes, Himesh Reshammiya wears many caps. Literally! Everyone's curious to know how HR is as an actor? Is he a fine actor? Or has he strolled into the wrong alley?

    Don't expect miracles. HR is no Dilip Kumar, Amitabh Bachchan, SRK or Aamir Khan when it comes to histrionics. He's not the best looker in town either, not anywhere close to Salman Khan, Hrithik Roshan or Akshay Kumar.

    But you've to hand it over to HR for being the most courageous and confident person around. Can you ever imagine actors like Amitabh Bachchan or SRK turning music composers overnight? It's difficult to take risks, especially when you're under a scanner constantly. Like the famous lines go, every step you take, every move you make, the world'll be watching you…

    Let's get one more thing straight. AAP KAA SURROOR is no amar prem kahani. The love story is the type we've watched a zillion times on the screen before. But what saves the ship from sinking is the fact that the turn of events unfold at a feverish pace and before you realize you've been there, seen that, you're already watching the next link to this story.

    So what's the verdict on AAP KAA SURROOR? It's crystal clear. The curiosity to watch HR 'act' will ensure his fans and foes making a beeline for movieplexes at least once. HR is sure to have his share of bouquets and brickbats. Bouquets, because the musical score of AAP KAA SURROOR is tremendous. Besides, he has handled a few emotional moments without trying to ape any actor. He's natural. Brickbats, because the film rests on a thin plot. Plus, the writing gets so filmy that you know exactly what the film is all about, at the start itself.

    All said, watch it for Himesh Reshammiya take a giant leap. At least he has the guts to chase his dreams!

    AAP KAA SURROOR begins with a dead body of a TV journo, Nadia Merchant, being found in a remote area, somewhere in Germany. Soon after, HR is arrested after a concert for murdering the television journalist. HR is put behind bars and the incidents begin to unravel as the movie goes into a flashback.

    While on a concert in Germany, HR meets the event organizer [Darshan Jariwala] and his partner [Mallika Sherawat]. He also meets the event planner [Hansika Motwani] and its love at first sight. Love blossoms. After initial reservations, Hansika's father [Sachin Khedekar] approves of the match.

    Things take a turn when HR is arrested. He asks Mallika, also a lawyer, to bail him out. But hell hath no fury like a woman scorned. Mallika is in love with HR, but the rockstar loves Hansika. He escapes from his prison cell after taking the murdered TV journalist's father [Raj Babbar] as captive. He has to find the actual murderer in one single day, or else his sweetheart will be married off to someone else.

    AAP KAA SURROOR starts off as a love story, but gets into the thriller drive subsequently. A key factor that goes in its favor is that the events unfold at a feverish pace, giving no time to the viewer to think or break into a yawn. Besides, the film bears a stylish and glossy look and the viewer is enamored by the stunning locales of Germany as also the melodious musical score that has been filmed on some striking locations. This one's an eye candy!

    But what acts as an eyesore is the screenplay; the way the writers have penned a script of convenience. Take for instance the climax. The villain's confession is telecast 'Live' after a deadly chase, so much so that even the dulhan [Hansika] and her father call off the saat pheras after watching the television that's placed next to the mandap. Even the auto-rickshaw sequence looks so weird. Besides, the writers should've kept the identity of the killer concealed right till the end, like it happens in Abbas-Mustan's movies. That's the hallmark of a thriller!

    Prashant Chadha knows the technicalities right. The film bears a stylish look all through, but Prashant should've been a bit more real and believable as far as the scripting is concerned. Latching on to the tried and tested stuff doesn't do justice to the tagline of the film -- 'The Real Luv Story'. HR is in form as a composer and every song is a musical gem. However, 'Mehbooba' deserved a better placement. Cinematography [Manoj Soni] is superb. Dialogues are alright.

    As mentioned earlier, HR looks confident all through, although he depicts emotions like anger, anguish and sadness far more effectively towards the post-interval portions. Of course, there's room for improvement, but for someone who's playing a 'hero' for the first time, it's a fine attempt.

    Hansika is a powerhouse of talent. Although she's no stranger to movies [having done a few films as a child artiste], she makes her big screen debut with supreme confidence. She's extremely photogenic too. Mallika Sherawat is interesting, although her switchover [from negative to positive] looks abrupt and artificial.

    Shravan [introduced in KUCH MEETHA HO JAYE], as HR's friend, excels. Bani is fair. Sachin Khedekar does well. Darshan Jariwala goes over the top at times.

    On the whole, AAP KAA SURROOR has tremendous curiosity-value attached to it. And that, in turn, will ensure a fantastic opening for the film. The superb promotion [quality and quantity] has created tremendous excitement for the film, which will result in the box-office singing a glorious tune in the final tally. For its distributors, the fabulous opening will have them singing and laughing all the way to the bank. Critics be damned, this one's for the masses!
    Source URL: http://trendgrafitiinternasional.blogspot.com/2007/06/
    Visit Trend Grafity for daily updated images of art collection

Aap Kaa Surroor - Movie Review

    Television producer. Music composer. Singer. And now actor. Oh yes, Himesh Reshammiya wears many caps. Literally! Everyone's curious to know how HR is as an actor? Is he a fine actor? Or has he strolled into the wrong alley?

    Don't expect miracles. HR is no Dilip Kumar, Amitabh Bachchan, SRK or Aamir Khan when it comes to histrionics. He's not the best looker in town either, not anywhere close to Salman Khan, Hrithik Roshan or Akshay Kumar.

    But you've to hand it over to HR for being the most courageous and confident person around. Can you ever imagine actors like Amitabh Bachchan or SRK turning music composers overnight? It's difficult to take risks, especially when you're under a scanner constantly. Like the famous lines go, every step you take, every move you make, the world'll be watching you…

    Let's get one more thing straight. AAP KAA SURROOR is no amar prem kahani. The love story is the type we've watched a zillion times on the screen before. But what saves the ship from sinking is the fact that the turn of events unfold at a feverish pace and before you realize you've been there, seen that, you're already watching the next link to this story.

    So what's the verdict on AAP KAA SURROOR? It's crystal clear. The curiosity to watch HR 'act' will ensure his fans and foes making a beeline for movieplexes at least once. HR is sure to have his share of bouquets and brickbats. Bouquets, because the musical score of AAP KAA SURROOR is tremendous. Besides, he has handled a few emotional moments without trying to ape any actor. He's natural. Brickbats, because the film rests on a thin plot. Plus, the writing gets so filmy that you know exactly what the film is all about, at the start itself.

    All said, watch it for Himesh Reshammiya take a giant leap. At least he has the guts to chase his dreams!

    AAP KAA SURROOR begins with a dead body of a TV journo, Nadia Merchant, being found in a remote area, somewhere in Germany. Soon after, HR is arrested after a concert for murdering the television journalist. HR is put behind bars and the incidents begin to unravel as the movie goes into a flashback.

    While on a concert in Germany, HR meets the event organizer [Darshan Jariwala] and his partner [Mallika Sherawat]. He also meets the event planner [Hansika Motwani] and its love at first sight. Love blossoms. After initial reservations, Hansika's father [Sachin Khedekar] approves of the match.

    Things take a turn when HR is arrested. He asks Mallika, also a lawyer, to bail him out. But hell hath no fury like a woman scorned. Mallika is in love with HR, but the rockstar loves Hansika. He escapes from his prison cell after taking the murdered TV journalist's father [Raj Babbar] as captive. He has to find the actual murderer in one single day, or else his sweetheart will be married off to someone else.

    AAP KAA SURROOR starts off as a love story, but gets into the thriller drive subsequently. A key factor that goes in its favor is that the events unfold at a feverish pace, giving no time to the viewer to think or break into a yawn. Besides, the film bears a stylish and glossy look and the viewer is enamored by the stunning locales of Germany as also the melodious musical score that has been filmed on some striking locations. This one's an eye candy!

    But what acts as an eyesore is the screenplay; the way the writers have penned a script of convenience. Take for instance the climax. The villain's confession is telecast 'Live' after a deadly chase, so much so that even the dulhan [Hansika] and her father call off the saat pheras after watching the television that's placed next to the mandap. Even the auto-rickshaw sequence looks so weird. Besides, the writers should've kept the identity of the killer concealed right till the end, like it happens in Abbas-Mustan's movies. That's the hallmark of a thriller!

    Prashant Chadha knows the technicalities right. The film bears a stylish look all through, but Prashant should've been a bit more real and believable as far as the scripting is concerned. Latching on to the tried and tested stuff doesn't do justice to the tagline of the film -- 'The Real Luv Story'. HR is in form as a composer and every song is a musical gem. However, 'Mehbooba' deserved a better placement. Cinematography [Manoj Soni] is superb. Dialogues are alright.

    As mentioned earlier, HR looks confident all through, although he depicts emotions like anger, anguish and sadness far more effectively towards the post-interval portions. Of course, there's room for improvement, but for someone who's playing a 'hero' for the first time, it's a fine attempt.

    Hansika is a powerhouse of talent. Although she's no stranger to movies [having done a few films as a child artiste], she makes her big screen debut with supreme confidence. She's extremely photogenic too. Mallika Sherawat is interesting, although her switchover [from negative to positive] looks abrupt and artificial.

    Shravan [introduced in KUCH MEETHA HO JAYE], as HR's friend, excels. Bani is fair. Sachin Khedekar does well. Darshan Jariwala goes over the top at times.

    On the whole, AAP KAA SURROOR has tremendous curiosity-value attached to it. And that, in turn, will ensure a fantastic opening for the film. The superb promotion [quality and quantity] has created tremendous excitement for the film, which will result in the box-office singing a glorious tune in the final tally. For its distributors, the fabulous opening will have them singing and laughing all the way to the bank. Critics be damned, this one's for the masses!
    Source URL: http://trendgrafitiinternasional.blogspot.com/2007/06/
    Visit Trend Grafity for daily updated images of art collection

Apne - Movie Review

    With SHRADDHANJALI, his directorial debut, Anil Sharma proved that he could make you moist-eyed. With HUKUMAT, he proved that he could pull off a vendetta fare with gusto. With GADAR, he proved he could handle a love story with two neighboring countries as the backdrop with remarkable ease.

    APNE, his new endeavor, is all about familial bonding. In a way, the storyteller goes back to his roots in his new outing -- emotions.

    APNE casts a father [Dharmendra] and his two real-life sons [Sunny, Bobby] in roles that suit their personalities. Besides, the backdrop of boxing makes the conflict in the story look convincing.

    APNE is rich in emotions and a number of sequences, especially those between Dharmendra and Sunny, are electrifying. Also, the boxing matches [Chris Anderson] are pulse-pounding and you clench your fists tightly due to the tension that's depicted on screen.

    But APNE has its share of shortcomings as well. Ideally, the film should've had a concise format of 2.15 hours, instead of 2.54 hours. Besides, the screenplay, although tight at most times, succumbs to mediocrity at places. Music too is another aspect that should've had a lingering effect, since it's not everyday that the three Deols come together.

    To sum up, APNE is desi at heart and holds appeal for those who swear by desi flicks. A worthy effort nonetheless!

    Baldev Singh Choudhary [Dharmendra] won a silver medal in the Olympics and made India proud. His only dream was to make history by becoming India's first World Heavyweight Boxing Champion. But sometimes dreams get shattered before they can be realized.

    When in the U.S., fighting for the World Heavyweight Championship, the betting mafia conspires against him and gets doping charges leveled against him, which gets him banned from boxing.

    For an athlete nothing can be worse than doping charges. Baldev wants to get rid of this stigma and pain by training his elder son Angad [Sunny Deol] in the sport of boxing and make him a World Heavyweight Champion and create history which eluded him.

    But Angad has some other dreams, other aspirations, other commitments… Karan [Bobby Deol], the younger son, a musician, in spite of wanting to fulfill his father's dreams, is helpless. But the story takes a turn when Karan decides to live his father's dream. The situation spirals out of hand subsequently…

    APNE grips you gradually. Anil Sharma and writer Neeraj Pathak open the cards at the very outset. The uneasy relationship shared by the father and son [Dharmendra, Sunny], Dharmendra's failed ambition, the turning point in the tale [when Bobby steps in to fulfill his father's dreams] make the goings-on watchable. The narrative only gets absorbing when the focus shifts to the boxing ring and the opponent [Luca] steps into the picture.

    But there's a flip side too. The choreography of these sequences [in the boxing ring] is so real that it can be off-putting as well, especially for the faint-hearted. Also, the climax is well crafted, but, ideally, it should've ended when Sunny overpowers the opponent. The subsequent portions [Bobby's liver problem] only add to the excessive length.

    Director Anil Sharma handles the emotional sequences brilliantly. In fact, a number of scenes bear the stamp of a solid storyteller. The screenplay [Neeraj Pathak] is taut, except for a few loose ends. Himesh Reshammiya's music is a complete letdown. Barring the title track, the remaining songs are uninspiring. Kabir Lal's cinematography is topnotch. The lush green fields and locales of North India give the film a rich texture.

    APNE belongs to Dharmendra. No two opinions on that. The veteran roars like never before and proves yet again that he's a magnificent actor. Sunny is first-rate. Bobby is alright, but the one complaint that you hold against him is, why didn't he work on his physique when he accepted this role? If he's playing a boxer, he can't afford to show his flabby chest and stomach.

    The leading ladies don't have much to do. Shilpa at least gets a few scenes, while Katrina is there to flutter her eyelashes only. Kirron Kher is superb yet again. In fact, she has a far meatier role than the two ladies. Divya Dutta is wasted. Victor Banerjee is natural. Jawed Sheikh gets minimal scope. Aryan Vaid is alright. Luca is excellent.

    On the whole, APNE is rich in emotions and has the potential to strike a chord with families. Those who love emotional fares are bound to take a liking for its theme. At the box-office, it has the power to grow with a strong word of mouth. Business in North India will be the best. However, trimming the film will only elevate its status.
    Source URL: http://trendgrafitiinternasional.blogspot.com/2007/06/
    Visit Trend Grafity for daily updated images of art collection

Apne - Movie Review

    With SHRADDHANJALI, his directorial debut, Anil Sharma proved that he could make you moist-eyed. With HUKUMAT, he proved that he could pull off a vendetta fare with gusto. With GADAR, he proved he could handle a love story with two neighboring countries as the backdrop with remarkable ease.

    APNE, his new endeavor, is all about familial bonding. In a way, the storyteller goes back to his roots in his new outing -- emotions.

    APNE casts a father [Dharmendra] and his two real-life sons [Sunny, Bobby] in roles that suit their personalities. Besides, the backdrop of boxing makes the conflict in the story look convincing.

    APNE is rich in emotions and a number of sequences, especially those between Dharmendra and Sunny, are electrifying. Also, the boxing matches [Chris Anderson] are pulse-pounding and you clench your fists tightly due to the tension that's depicted on screen.

    But APNE has its share of shortcomings as well. Ideally, the film should've had a concise format of 2.15 hours, instead of 2.54 hours. Besides, the screenplay, although tight at most times, succumbs to mediocrity at places. Music too is another aspect that should've had a lingering effect, since it's not everyday that the three Deols come together.

    To sum up, APNE is desi at heart and holds appeal for those who swear by desi flicks. A worthy effort nonetheless!

    Baldev Singh Choudhary [Dharmendra] won a silver medal in the Olympics and made India proud. His only dream was to make history by becoming India's first World Heavyweight Boxing Champion. But sometimes dreams get shattered before they can be realized.

    When in the U.S., fighting for the World Heavyweight Championship, the betting mafia conspires against him and gets doping charges leveled against him, which gets him banned from boxing.

    For an athlete nothing can be worse than doping charges. Baldev wants to get rid of this stigma and pain by training his elder son Angad [Sunny Deol] in the sport of boxing and make him a World Heavyweight Champion and create history which eluded him.

    But Angad has some other dreams, other aspirations, other commitments… Karan [Bobby Deol], the younger son, a musician, in spite of wanting to fulfill his father's dreams, is helpless. But the story takes a turn when Karan decides to live his father's dream. The situation spirals out of hand subsequently…

    APNE grips you gradually. Anil Sharma and writer Neeraj Pathak open the cards at the very outset. The uneasy relationship shared by the father and son [Dharmendra, Sunny], Dharmendra's failed ambition, the turning point in the tale [when Bobby steps in to fulfill his father's dreams] make the goings-on watchable. The narrative only gets absorbing when the focus shifts to the boxing ring and the opponent [Luca] steps into the picture.

    But there's a flip side too. The choreography of these sequences [in the boxing ring] is so real that it can be off-putting as well, especially for the faint-hearted. Also, the climax is well crafted, but, ideally, it should've ended when Sunny overpowers the opponent. The subsequent portions [Bobby's liver problem] only add to the excessive length.

    Director Anil Sharma handles the emotional sequences brilliantly. In fact, a number of scenes bear the stamp of a solid storyteller. The screenplay [Neeraj Pathak] is taut, except for a few loose ends. Himesh Reshammiya's music is a complete letdown. Barring the title track, the remaining songs are uninspiring. Kabir Lal's cinematography is topnotch. The lush green fields and locales of North India give the film a rich texture.

    APNE belongs to Dharmendra. No two opinions on that. The veteran roars like never before and proves yet again that he's a magnificent actor. Sunny is first-rate. Bobby is alright, but the one complaint that you hold against him is, why didn't he work on his physique when he accepted this role? If he's playing a boxer, he can't afford to show his flabby chest and stomach.

    The leading ladies don't have much to do. Shilpa at least gets a few scenes, while Katrina is there to flutter her eyelashes only. Kirron Kher is superb yet again. In fact, she has a far meatier role than the two ladies. Divya Dutta is wasted. Victor Banerjee is natural. Jawed Sheikh gets minimal scope. Aryan Vaid is alright. Luca is excellent.

    On the whole, APNE is rich in emotions and has the potential to strike a chord with families. Those who love emotional fares are bound to take a liking for its theme. At the box-office, it has the power to grow with a strong word of mouth. Business in North India will be the best. However, trimming the film will only elevate its status.
    Source URL: http://trendgrafitiinternasional.blogspot.com/2007/06/
    Visit Trend Grafity for daily updated images of art collection

Koffee With Madhuri Dixit On This Sunday


    She is the most beautiful woman ever… she has the most magnificent smile ever… and is truly the most fantastic actress ever… they don't make them like her anymore… This Sunday, Karan chats up with none other than the gorgeous Madhuri Dixit! Watch her talk about her comeback in Bollywood after six years, what all has changed since then, her family, life in the US and lots more only on Koffee with Karan

    Madhuri, who is all set to make her much-awaited comeback in Bollywood with 'Aaja Nachle' shares that after a long hiatus of six years, she was a little hassled to face the camera on day one! In fact, she admits on the show that when Aditya Chopra approached her for the film she told him, “You really think people want to watch me?” Madhuri tells Karan that a lot has changed in the industry in the last six years, everything now is very disciplined, it is all planned well in advance, what the scene is going to be, what you are going to wear, everything is set and is therefore very easy for the actors. She also shares how she met her husband Ram, the fact that they complement each other very well and that he has always been very supportive of her decisions! That's not all, on this week's exciting episode, watch out as one of Bollwood's finest and talented actress who is a die-hard Madhuri fan makes a surprise visit! Who is she? Well… you will just have to wait and watch!

    And just when the Q&A wraps up, the fun doubles with the fiery rapid fire round! Who according to Madhuri is the hottest hunk in Hindi Cinema? Other than Ram, the sweetest marriage proposal she has received. Sooraj Bharjatiya' s next or Sanjay Bhansali's next? Sridevi or Juhi? Who does Madhuri choose? How does Madhuri combat Karan's volley of questions? Was there enough fire in her answers? Tune-in to this week's exciting episode!

    Excerpts from the interview:

    Karan: How does it feel … you know you are back after such a long time… do you feel things have changed in the industry … the work ethic… things like that?

    Madhuri: Yes… simple things

    Karan: Like what

    Madhuri: Like… you know you have a whole bound script and that's not a very simple …

    Karan: And that didn't happen during your time?

    Madhuri: Oh No, it didn't … sometimes we used to go on the sets, we didn't even know what we were going to say in the scene… we used to get the dialogues right then…
    Karan: Last minute

    Madhuri: Ya… last minute… learn them and just say them and the whole economics was different at that time of film making… and I think because of the corporate kind of culture that has come in now, its great, because everything is so organized now

    Karan: Everything is streamlined…

    Madhuri: Everything is disciplined … you know it is worked out before hand… what the scene is going to be and what you are going to wear… what you're look is going to be … everything is set for you … it is so easy for the actors

    Karan: What else has happened is, this whole emergence of the paparazzi and the media… do you think…

    Madhuri: That has shocked me

    Karan: Like what

    Madhuri: I was invited for this opening and I saw this barrage of cameramen and the press was like falling all over each other… and I was like what is happening …

    Karan: And that wasn't the case earlier

    Madhuri: No, it wasn't... I mean there were a few photographers… same familiar faces who used to be there everywhere to cover… but now it's like you know new people, new faces and I went to this Siddhivinayak temple …

    Karan: Oh ya… they have the tendency to follow people at that particular temple

    Madhuri: Ya, you know… I came out and it was like… oh my God, and I thought my kids are going to be scared and I was holding on to them… but you should have seen my little one…

    Karan: What did he do?

    Madhuri: He was fluttering his eyes and smiling and my other kid was also enjoying all that attention…

    Karan: But darling, he is an actresses' son, he has got it in his genes

    Madhuri: That's what my husband says… “bachche kiske hai”

    Karan: Actresses like Rani and all are huge fans of yours…

    Madhuri: Ya, she has told me that

    Karan: Have you seen her work?

    Madhuri: Yes, I have, and I think she is a very good actress… I have always liked her… and I envy her in a way … because my dad is a big fan of hers …

    Karan: Really?

    Madhuri: Ya, really

    Karan: You must see her in Black… she is fantastic

    Madhuri: Ya, I should

    Karan: What about your male co-stars, have you met them all, after you are back?

    Madhuri: No, not all of them, because everybody is busy… but, I have met Shah Rukh and I think he is only co-star I have met
    Source URL: http://trendgrafitiinternasional.blogspot.com/2007/06/
    Visit Trend Grafity for daily updated images of art collection

Koffee With Madhuri Dixit On This Sunday


    She is the most beautiful woman ever… she has the most magnificent smile ever… and is truly the most fantastic actress ever… they don't make them like her anymore… This Sunday, Karan chats up with none other than the gorgeous Madhuri Dixit! Watch her talk about her comeback in Bollywood after six years, what all has changed since then, her family, life in the US and lots more only on Koffee with Karan

    Madhuri, who is all set to make her much-awaited comeback in Bollywood with 'Aaja Nachle' shares that after a long hiatus of six years, she was a little hassled to face the camera on day one! In fact, she admits on the show that when Aditya Chopra approached her for the film she told him, “You really think people want to watch me?” Madhuri tells Karan that a lot has changed in the industry in the last six years, everything now is very disciplined, it is all planned well in advance, what the scene is going to be, what you are going to wear, everything is set and is therefore very easy for the actors. She also shares how she met her husband Ram, the fact that they complement each other very well and that he has always been very supportive of her decisions! That's not all, on this week's exciting episode, watch out as one of Bollwood's finest and talented actress who is a die-hard Madhuri fan makes a surprise visit! Who is she? Well… you will just have to wait and watch!

    And just when the Q&A wraps up, the fun doubles with the fiery rapid fire round! Who according to Madhuri is the hottest hunk in Hindi Cinema? Other than Ram, the sweetest marriage proposal she has received. Sooraj Bharjatiya' s next or Sanjay Bhansali's next? Sridevi or Juhi? Who does Madhuri choose? How does Madhuri combat Karan's volley of questions? Was there enough fire in her answers? Tune-in to this week's exciting episode!

    Excerpts from the interview:

    Karan: How does it feel … you know you are back after such a long time… do you feel things have changed in the industry … the work ethic… things like that?

    Madhuri: Yes… simple things

    Karan: Like what

    Madhuri: Like… you know you have a whole bound script and that's not a very simple …

    Karan: And that didn't happen during your time?

    Madhuri: Oh No, it didn't … sometimes we used to go on the sets, we didn't even know what we were going to say in the scene… we used to get the dialogues right then…
    Karan: Last minute

    Madhuri: Ya… last minute… learn them and just say them and the whole economics was different at that time of film making… and I think because of the corporate kind of culture that has come in now, its great, because everything is so organized now

    Karan: Everything is streamlined…

    Madhuri: Everything is disciplined … you know it is worked out before hand… what the scene is going to be and what you are going to wear… what you're look is going to be … everything is set for you … it is so easy for the actors

    Karan: What else has happened is, this whole emergence of the paparazzi and the media… do you think…

    Madhuri: That has shocked me

    Karan: Like what

    Madhuri: I was invited for this opening and I saw this barrage of cameramen and the press was like falling all over each other… and I was like what is happening …

    Karan: And that wasn't the case earlier

    Madhuri: No, it wasn't... I mean there were a few photographers… same familiar faces who used to be there everywhere to cover… but now it's like you know new people, new faces and I went to this Siddhivinayak temple …

    Karan: Oh ya… they have the tendency to follow people at that particular temple

    Madhuri: Ya, you know… I came out and it was like… oh my God, and I thought my kids are going to be scared and I was holding on to them… but you should have seen my little one…

    Karan: What did he do?

    Madhuri: He was fluttering his eyes and smiling and my other kid was also enjoying all that attention…

    Karan: But darling, he is an actresses' son, he has got it in his genes

    Madhuri: That's what my husband says… “bachche kiske hai”

    Karan: Actresses like Rani and all are huge fans of yours…

    Madhuri: Ya, she has told me that

    Karan: Have you seen her work?

    Madhuri: Yes, I have, and I think she is a very good actress… I have always liked her… and I envy her in a way … because my dad is a big fan of hers …

    Karan: Really?

    Madhuri: Ya, really

    Karan: You must see her in Black… she is fantastic

    Madhuri: Ya, I should

    Karan: What about your male co-stars, have you met them all, after you are back?

    Madhuri: No, not all of them, because everybody is busy… but, I have met Shah Rukh and I think he is only co-star I have met
    Source URL: http://trendgrafitiinternasional.blogspot.com/2007/06/
    Visit Trend Grafity for daily updated images of art collection

The news is not true at all. Rani is busy with her work, Mukherji

    The Queen B of Bollywood probably wants to remain the queen in every sense possible. Rani might have had liaisons with co stars Anil Kapoor and Govinda, when it comes to marriage she is not going to settle for anything less.

    This explains her huge friendship with Abhishek Bachchan in the past and her repoted deep willingness to be the next Mrs Bachchan.

    But after Rani was allegedly dropped like a hot potato by the Bachchans for her foul mouth, bad behavior and supposed lowly family background and Abhsihek getting settled down with arch rival, the ethereally beautiful Aishwarya Rai barely two months back, comes the news that she has got engaged to the brain behind the multi-crore Chopra empire, Aditya Chopra.

    Apparently the duo had a hush-hush engagement sometime back and is planning to tie the knot soon.

    “The ‘roka’ took place at the same Chopra bungalow where Chandni was shot. Only family and friends attended the ceremony that included Rani’s parents Ram and Krishna Mukherjee, brother Raja and his wife.

    Present from the Chopra clan were brother Uday, dad Yash Chopra and mum Pamela Chopra. Pam aunty didn’t seem very happy, as she has a soft corner for Adi’s ex-wife, Payal. Another function will take place at Rani’s house next week”, claimed a source close to the Chopras.

    So this confirms the reports all this while that something was brewing between the two and also explains the casting of Rani in every other Yash Raj Film. It also makes the straining of Aditya and his wife Payal Khanna’s relationship over the involvement with Rani true.

    If reports are anything to go by, Adi's divorce with Payal is creating a dent in his relationship with his family and also putting the multi crore Chopra empire in jeopardy. The buzz is that after marriage Rani is not going to live in the Chopra house.

    Instead Aditya will live in the house Rani has recently bought. But it seems the madly in love Aditya couldn’t care less. As for Rani, when it comes to settling down she will only do it Queen B style.

    But Monika Bhattacharya, a spokesperson for Yash Raj Films has denied that actress Rani Mukherjee was engaged to producer-director Aditya Chopra in a secret ceremony. Rani's father Ram Mukherjee issued a press release on Wednesday, denying the speculation.

    "This is a rumor. the news is not true at all. Rani is busy with her work and she will not do anything secretly," he said.

    Actor Anupam Kher, who reportedly attended the "Roka" ceremony has also rubbished the report.

    Significantly, neither Rani Mukherjee nor Aditya Chopra have denied the reports. They are also not available for comments.
    Source URL: http://trendgrafitiinternasional.blogspot.com/2007/06/
    Visit Trend Grafity for daily updated images of art collection

The news is not true at all. Rani is busy with her work, Mukherji

    The Queen B of Bollywood probably wants to remain the queen in every sense possible. Rani might have had liaisons with co stars Anil Kapoor and Govinda, when it comes to marriage she is not going to settle for anything less.

    This explains her huge friendship with Abhishek Bachchan in the past and her repoted deep willingness to be the next Mrs Bachchan.

    But after Rani was allegedly dropped like a hot potato by the Bachchans for her foul mouth, bad behavior and supposed lowly family background and Abhsihek getting settled down with arch rival, the ethereally beautiful Aishwarya Rai barely two months back, comes the news that she has got engaged to the brain behind the multi-crore Chopra empire, Aditya Chopra.

    Apparently the duo had a hush-hush engagement sometime back and is planning to tie the knot soon.

    “The ‘roka’ took place at the same Chopra bungalow where Chandni was shot. Only family and friends attended the ceremony that included Rani’s parents Ram and Krishna Mukherjee, brother Raja and his wife.

    Present from the Chopra clan were brother Uday, dad Yash Chopra and mum Pamela Chopra. Pam aunty didn’t seem very happy, as she has a soft corner for Adi’s ex-wife, Payal. Another function will take place at Rani’s house next week”, claimed a source close to the Chopras.

    So this confirms the reports all this while that something was brewing between the two and also explains the casting of Rani in every other Yash Raj Film. It also makes the straining of Aditya and his wife Payal Khanna’s relationship over the involvement with Rani true.

    If reports are anything to go by, Adi's divorce with Payal is creating a dent in his relationship with his family and also putting the multi crore Chopra empire in jeopardy. The buzz is that after marriage Rani is not going to live in the Chopra house.

    Instead Aditya will live in the house Rani has recently bought. But it seems the madly in love Aditya couldn’t care less. As for Rani, when it comes to settling down she will only do it Queen B style.

    But Monika Bhattacharya, a spokesperson for Yash Raj Films has denied that actress Rani Mukherjee was engaged to producer-director Aditya Chopra in a secret ceremony. Rani's father Ram Mukherjee issued a press release on Wednesday, denying the speculation.

    "This is a rumor. the news is not true at all. Rani is busy with her work and she will not do anything secretly," he said.

    Actor Anupam Kher, who reportedly attended the "Roka" ceremony has also rubbished the report.

    Significantly, neither Rani Mukherjee nor Aditya Chopra have denied the reports. They are also not available for comments.
    Source URL: http://trendgrafitiinternasional.blogspot.com/2007/06/
    Visit Trend Grafity for daily updated images of art collection

No Bachchans only Khans

    There are only two ways to go for a Bollywood citizen. The Khan way or the Bachchan way. And the highway is the camp that has the least no. of big names.

    We know for sure though that Shilpa is a big name (however and whatever), so which Bollywood camp is she inclined towards?

    This is how we speculate the things are:

    During a surprise event organised by IIFA to celebrate her 32nd birthday during the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Weekend, a party was organised at the Victoria Quarters which was attended by several film personalities, the guest list being as interesting as that of AbhiAsh wedding one!

    Considering during the day she had inaugurated the IIFA Celebrity Cricket Match along with brand ambassador Amitabh Bachchan at the Headingley stadium she would definitely call Big B or atleast somebody from his camp, but learning from Big B, Shetty cleared her preferences by inviting some special people for her birthday party.

    Participation in her birthday celebrations was by invitation only and the media was not invited for the bash To name a few biggies on the guest list, Salman Khan, Karan Johar, Shah Rukh Khan were all present and this is just the crust.Nobody by the Bachchan surname was invited.

    Shilpa is very close to Salman Khan and this is a well known fact especially since the time he helped her during the Praful Sarees case. Shilpa on her part has tried to be a true friend whenever Salman needed her.

    The Khan-dan seems to be growing by the minute, so any one at all except the family with u, Mr. Bachchan?
    Source URL: http://trendgrafitiinternasional.blogspot.com/2007/06/
    Visit Trend Grafity for daily updated images of art collection

No Bachchans only Khans

    There are only two ways to go for a Bollywood citizen. The Khan way or the Bachchan way. And the highway is the camp that has the least no. of big names.

    We know for sure though that Shilpa is a big name (however and whatever), so which Bollywood camp is she inclined towards?

    This is how we speculate the things are:

    During a surprise event organised by IIFA to celebrate her 32nd birthday during the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Weekend, a party was organised at the Victoria Quarters which was attended by several film personalities, the guest list being as interesting as that of AbhiAsh wedding one!

    Considering during the day she had inaugurated the IIFA Celebrity Cricket Match along with brand ambassador Amitabh Bachchan at the Headingley stadium she would definitely call Big B or atleast somebody from his camp, but learning from Big B, Shetty cleared her preferences by inviting some special people for her birthday party.

    Participation in her birthday celebrations was by invitation only and the media was not invited for the bash To name a few biggies on the guest list, Salman Khan, Karan Johar, Shah Rukh Khan were all present and this is just the crust.Nobody by the Bachchan surname was invited.

    Shilpa is very close to Salman Khan and this is a well known fact especially since the time he helped her during the Praful Sarees case. Shilpa on her part has tried to be a true friend whenever Salman needed her.

    The Khan-dan seems to be growing by the minute, so any one at all except the family with u, Mr. Bachchan?
    Source URL: http://trendgrafitiinternasional.blogspot.com/2007/06/
    Visit Trend Grafity for daily updated images of art collection

King Khan to be honoured by French Govt.

    Shah Rukh Khan will be awarded the Officier dans l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (Officer of the Order of Arts and Letters) by the French government for his prolific career and his contribution to the development of Indo-French cooperation in the field of cinema.

    French ambassador Dominique Girard said that it gives the French Government has chosen to give the honour of the Officier dans l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres to Shah Rukh Khan, who is a very talented actor with unmatched popularity. Shah Rukh will be given the honour on a later date.

    The French government presents the Officier dans l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres award to persons who have distinguished themselves by their creativity in the field of art, culture and literature or for their contribution to art in France and other parts of the world. Some other Indians like artist S.H. Raza and author Mahasweta Devi are the ones who have received this honour before.
    Source URL: http://trendgrafitiinternasional.blogspot.com/2007/06/
    Visit Trend Grafity for daily updated images of art collection

King Khan to be honoured by French Govt.

    Shah Rukh Khan will be awarded the Officier dans l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (Officer of the Order of Arts and Letters) by the French government for his prolific career and his contribution to the development of Indo-French cooperation in the field of cinema.

    French ambassador Dominique Girard said that it gives the French Government has chosen to give the honour of the Officier dans l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres to Shah Rukh Khan, who is a very talented actor with unmatched popularity. Shah Rukh will be given the honour on a later date.

    The French government presents the Officier dans l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres award to persons who have distinguished themselves by their creativity in the field of art, culture and literature or for their contribution to art in France and other parts of the world. Some other Indians like artist S.H. Raza and author Mahasweta Devi are the ones who have received this honour before.
    Source URL: http://trendgrafitiinternasional.blogspot.com/2007/06/
    Visit Trend Grafity for daily updated images of art collection

Jhoom Barabar Jhoom - Movie Review

    Really big expectations? Oh yes! With the premier production house [Yash Raj] at the helm of affairs and Shaad Ali in the director's seat, JHOOM BARABAR JHOOM is expected to strike like a hurricane.

    Let's come to the point straightaway. Don't look for a story in JHOOM BARABAR JHOOM. For, there's none here. What you get to see is a collage of interesting moments. It's not one of those conventional prem kahanis that have the lovers drifting apart or a misunderstanding creating havoc in their lives.

    What goes against the film is the fact that you feel a vacuum at the end of the screening. Something is amiss. Sure, you are enamored by the gloss. You are awe-struck by the stunning locales of U.K. and France. You are hooked to the performances of Abhishek and Preity mainly. But, deep inside, it doesn't satiate you.

    To sum up, JHOOM BARABAR JHOOM is all gloss, no substance. Body beautiful, minus soul. In desi lingo, unchi dukaan, phika pakwaan.

    Busy London station. Delayed train from Birmingham. Two strangers waiting for the train... Rikki Thukral [Abhishek Bachchan], born in Bhatinda, living in London; and Alvira Khan [Preity Zinta], more Brit than the Queen herself, however with Lahori blood in her veins.

    Crowded café. One table to share. Two hours to kill. Perfect setting for the start of a love-story. Hitch? Both Rikki and Alvira are engaged and have come to pick up their fiancés, who are coming by the same train. To kill time, they end up telling each other their “how I met my fiancé” stories.

    Rikki met his fiancé Anaida [Lara Dutta] at The Ritz, Paris. Alvira discovers her prince at Madame Tussaud's. When a gigantic wax model of Superman falls from the ceiling, Alvira is a sitting target. But Steve [Bobby Deol], a lawyer by profession, saves her life, but steals her heart.

    Stories unfold, time passes, the two strangers start enjoying each other. Actually, they have gotten alarmingly attracted to each other!

    Director Shaad Ali has handled a number of sequences well. Actually, come to think of it, you do enjoy a few moments in this 14 reeler. But can you stretch a rubberband beyond a point? That's what the writer does.

    Writer Habib Faisal's screenplay is as taxing as driving in monsoons on a road full of potholes. When you realize the film offers no story, you sit motionless, flexing your facial muscles at times, but remaining indifferent to the goings-on generally. The director and writer have substituted the script with stunning visuals. But that's no compensation. Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy's music is quite good. 'Ticket To Hollywood' is the track you carry home. The title track is another foot-tapping composition. Cinematography is exceptional. The film is a visual treat. Choreography [Vaibhavi Merchant] is different, but Abhishek carries it off very well. Aki Narula's costumes are smashing.

    JHOOM BARABAR JHOOM belongs to Abhishek first and Preity next. Abhishek is in terrific form. It wouldn't be erroneous to state that his performance makes the goings-on watchable at times. A lesser actor would've fallen flat on his face in the absence of a cohesive script.

    Preity is lovely and takes to her character like a fish to water. In fact, the two actors make an attractive pair. Bobby is relegated to the backseat. Also, would someone please tell Mr. Deol to chop off those locks? Lara Dutta is confident, though she's not in the forefront either. Amitabh Bachchan adds to star-value. He only appears in one song, flashed throughout the movie.

    On the whole, JHOOM BARABAR JHOOM is no patch on Yash Raj's illustrious films. The film is all gloss, no substance. Body beautiful, minus soul. At the box-office, the all-powerful Yash Raj brand coupled with the lack of biggies will ensure substantial revenue for its producers/distributors in the initial days, proving that sometimes, a bad film also makes money.
    Source URL: http://trendgrafitiinternasional.blogspot.com/2007/06/
    Visit Trend Grafity for daily updated images of art collection

Jhoom Barabar Jhoom - Movie Review

    Really big expectations? Oh yes! With the premier production house [Yash Raj] at the helm of affairs and Shaad Ali in the director's seat, JHOOM BARABAR JHOOM is expected to strike like a hurricane.

    Let's come to the point straightaway. Don't look for a story in JHOOM BARABAR JHOOM. For, there's none here. What you get to see is a collage of interesting moments. It's not one of those conventional prem kahanis that have the lovers drifting apart or a misunderstanding creating havoc in their lives.

    What goes against the film is the fact that you feel a vacuum at the end of the screening. Something is amiss. Sure, you are enamored by the gloss. You are awe-struck by the stunning locales of U.K. and France. You are hooked to the performances of Abhishek and Preity mainly. But, deep inside, it doesn't satiate you.

    To sum up, JHOOM BARABAR JHOOM is all gloss, no substance. Body beautiful, minus soul. In desi lingo, unchi dukaan, phika pakwaan.

    Busy London station. Delayed train from Birmingham. Two strangers waiting for the train... Rikki Thukral [Abhishek Bachchan], born in Bhatinda, living in London; and Alvira Khan [Preity Zinta], more Brit than the Queen herself, however with Lahori blood in her veins.

    Crowded café. One table to share. Two hours to kill. Perfect setting for the start of a love-story. Hitch? Both Rikki and Alvira are engaged and have come to pick up their fiancés, who are coming by the same train. To kill time, they end up telling each other their “how I met my fiancé” stories.

    Rikki met his fiancé Anaida [Lara Dutta] at The Ritz, Paris. Alvira discovers her prince at Madame Tussaud's. When a gigantic wax model of Superman falls from the ceiling, Alvira is a sitting target. But Steve [Bobby Deol], a lawyer by profession, saves her life, but steals her heart.

    Stories unfold, time passes, the two strangers start enjoying each other. Actually, they have gotten alarmingly attracted to each other!

    Director Shaad Ali has handled a number of sequences well. Actually, come to think of it, you do enjoy a few moments in this 14 reeler. But can you stretch a rubberband beyond a point? That's what the writer does.

    Writer Habib Faisal's screenplay is as taxing as driving in monsoons on a road full of potholes. When you realize the film offers no story, you sit motionless, flexing your facial muscles at times, but remaining indifferent to the goings-on generally. The director and writer have substituted the script with stunning visuals. But that's no compensation. Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy's music is quite good. 'Ticket To Hollywood' is the track you carry home. The title track is another foot-tapping composition. Cinematography is exceptional. The film is a visual treat. Choreography [Vaibhavi Merchant] is different, but Abhishek carries it off very well. Aki Narula's costumes are smashing.

    JHOOM BARABAR JHOOM belongs to Abhishek first and Preity next. Abhishek is in terrific form. It wouldn't be erroneous to state that his performance makes the goings-on watchable at times. A lesser actor would've fallen flat on his face in the absence of a cohesive script.

    Preity is lovely and takes to her character like a fish to water. In fact, the two actors make an attractive pair. Bobby is relegated to the backseat. Also, would someone please tell Mr. Deol to chop off those locks? Lara Dutta is confident, though she's not in the forefront either. Amitabh Bachchan adds to star-value. He only appears in one song, flashed throughout the movie.

    On the whole, JHOOM BARABAR JHOOM is no patch on Yash Raj's illustrious films. The film is all gloss, no substance. Body beautiful, minus soul. At the box-office, the all-powerful Yash Raj brand coupled with the lack of biggies will ensure substantial revenue for its producers/distributors in the initial days, proving that sometimes, a bad film also makes money.
    Source URL: http://trendgrafitiinternasional.blogspot.com/2007/06/
    Visit Trend Grafity for daily updated images of art collection

iifa awards 2007 - Winners



    Best Film
    Rang De Basanti

    Best Actor
    Hrithik Roshan - Krrish

    Best Actress
    Rani Mukherjee - Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna

    Best Director
    Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra - Rang De Basanti

    Best Story
    Lage Raho Munnabhai

    Best Dialogue
    Lage Raho Munnabhai

    Best Screenplay
    Rensil D'Silva, Rakesh Mehra, Kamlesh Pandey - (Rang De Basanti)

    Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Male)
    Arshad Warsi - Lage Raho Munnabhai

    Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Female)
    Soha Ali Khan - Rang De Basanti

    Best Actor in a Comic Role
    Tusshar Kapoor - Golmaal

    Best Actor in a Negative Role
    Saif Ali Khan - Omkara

    Best Music Direction
    A.R. Rehman - Rang De Basanti

    Best Lyrics
    Prasoon Joshi - Chand Sifarish (Fanaa)

    Best Playback (Male)
    Shaan - Chand Sifarish (Fanaa)

    Best Playback (Female)
    Sunidhi Chauhan - Beedi (Omkara)

    Best Debut (Female)
    Kangana Ranaut

    Best Debut (Male)
    Upen Patel

    Outstanding Achievement Award
    Dharmendra

    Brightest Indian director abroad Award
    Deepa Mehta - Water

    Outstanding contribution to cinema
    Basu Chaterjee

    Best Cinematic contribution for litery work
    Vishal Bhardwaj

    Idea Creative Film
    Krrish

    The most glamourous face
    Hrithik Roshan & Aishwarya Rai
    Source URL: http://trendgrafitiinternasional.blogspot.com/2007/06/
    Visit Trend Grafity for daily updated images of art collection

iifa awards 2007 - Winners



    Best Film
    Rang De Basanti

    Best Actor
    Hrithik Roshan - Krrish

    Best Actress
    Rani Mukherjee - Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna

    Best Director
    Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra - Rang De Basanti

    Best Story
    Lage Raho Munnabhai

    Best Dialogue
    Lage Raho Munnabhai

    Best Screenplay
    Rensil D'Silva, Rakesh Mehra, Kamlesh Pandey - (Rang De Basanti)

    Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Male)
    Arshad Warsi - Lage Raho Munnabhai

    Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Female)
    Soha Ali Khan - Rang De Basanti

    Best Actor in a Comic Role
    Tusshar Kapoor - Golmaal

    Best Actor in a Negative Role
    Saif Ali Khan - Omkara

    Best Music Direction
    A.R. Rehman - Rang De Basanti

    Best Lyrics
    Prasoon Joshi - Chand Sifarish (Fanaa)

    Best Playback (Male)
    Shaan - Chand Sifarish (Fanaa)

    Best Playback (Female)
    Sunidhi Chauhan - Beedi (Omkara)

    Best Debut (Female)
    Kangana Ranaut

    Best Debut (Male)
    Upen Patel

    Outstanding Achievement Award
    Dharmendra

    Brightest Indian director abroad Award
    Deepa Mehta - Water

    Outstanding contribution to cinema
    Basu Chaterjee

    Best Cinematic contribution for litery work
    Vishal Bhardwaj

    Idea Creative Film
    Krrish

    The most glamourous face
    Hrithik Roshan & Aishwarya Rai
    Source URL: http://trendgrafitiinternasional.blogspot.com/2007/06/
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Box Office Top 5

    Midweek: 'Fool N Final' is average!



    Fool N Final
    Sunny Deol, Vivek Oberoi, Shahid Kapoor,
    Ayesha Takia, Sameera Reddy, Arbaaz Khan,
    Chunkey Pandey, Om Puri, Sharmila Tagore,
    Paresh Rawal, Johny Lever, Gulshan Grover
    Average

    Shootout At Lokhandwala
    Amitabh Bachchan, Sanjay Dutt, Suniel Shetty, Vivek Oberoi, Arbaaz Khan, Tusshar Kapoor, Rohit Roy, Aditya Lakhia, Shabbir Ahluwalia, Amrita Singh, Dia Mirza, Neha Dhupia, Aarti Chhabria, Abhishek Bachchan [sp. app.] Hit

    Cheeni Kum
    Amitabh Bachchan, Tabu, Paresh Rawal, Zohra Sehgal, Swini Khara Above
    Average

    Metro
    Shilpa Shetty, Shiney Ahuja, Kay Kay Menon, Irrfan Khan, Konkona Sen Sharma, Sharman Joshi, Kangana Ranaut, Dharmendra, Nafisa Ali Average

    Ta Ra Rum Pum
    Saif Ali Khan, Rani Mukerji, Jaaved Jaaferi, Bharat Dabholkar, Angelina Idnani, Ali Haji Above
    Average

    (Ratings are based on the box office collections and the cost of the film)

    Source URL: http://trendgrafitiinternasional.blogspot.com/2007/06/
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Box Office Top 5

    Midweek: 'Fool N Final' is average!



    Fool N Final
    Sunny Deol, Vivek Oberoi, Shahid Kapoor,
    Ayesha Takia, Sameera Reddy, Arbaaz Khan,
    Chunkey Pandey, Om Puri, Sharmila Tagore,
    Paresh Rawal, Johny Lever, Gulshan Grover
    Average

    Shootout At Lokhandwala
    Amitabh Bachchan, Sanjay Dutt, Suniel Shetty, Vivek Oberoi, Arbaaz Khan, Tusshar Kapoor, Rohit Roy, Aditya Lakhia, Shabbir Ahluwalia, Amrita Singh, Dia Mirza, Neha Dhupia, Aarti Chhabria, Abhishek Bachchan [sp. app.] Hit

    Cheeni Kum
    Amitabh Bachchan, Tabu, Paresh Rawal, Zohra Sehgal, Swini Khara Above
    Average

    Metro
    Shilpa Shetty, Shiney Ahuja, Kay Kay Menon, Irrfan Khan, Konkona Sen Sharma, Sharman Joshi, Kangana Ranaut, Dharmendra, Nafisa Ali Average

    Ta Ra Rum Pum
    Saif Ali Khan, Rani Mukerji, Jaaved Jaaferi, Bharat Dabholkar, Angelina Idnani, Ali Haji Above
    Average

    (Ratings are based on the box office collections and the cost of the film)

    Source URL: http://trendgrafitiinternasional.blogspot.com/2007/06/
    Visit Trend Grafity for daily updated images of art collection

Bollywood - Movie Release Dates

    June 8, 2007
    - Dharm
    - Kabhi Socha Bhi Na Tha
    - mp3 - Mera Pehla Pehla Pyaar
    - Red Swastik
    - Swami
    - The Train

    June 15, 2007
    - Ghutan
    - Jhoom Barabar Jhoom

    June 22, 2007
    - Bombay To Goa
    - Chain Kulii Ki Main Kulii

    June 29, 2007
    - Aap Ka Surroor - The Moviee
    - Apne
    - Awarapan

    July 6, 2007
    - Jahan Jaaeyega Hamen Paaeyega

    July 13, 2007
    - Fear
    - Naqaab
    - Pachas Lakh
    - The Challenge

    July 20, 2007
    - Cash
    - Partner

    July 27, 2007
    - Kaafila
    - Marigold: An Adventure In India

    July 2007
    - Kaise Kahe...

    August 3, 2007
    - Darling
    - Gandhi My Father
    - Ru Ba Ru

    August 10, 2007
    - Chak De India

    August 22, 2007
    - Speed

    August 24, 2007
    - Heyy Babyy

    August 31, 2007
    - Ek - The Power Of One
    - Goal
    - Ram Gopal Varma Ke Sholay

    August 2007
    - Agar
    - Black N White
    - Chooriyan
    - De Taali
    - Dus Kahaniyaan
    - Familywala
    - Halla Bol
    - Hum Laakh Chhupayein Pyaar ... Magar
    - Mr. Black Mr. White
    - Wednesday
    - Welcome
    - Woodstock Villa

    September 7, 2007
    - My Name Is Anthony Gonsalves

    September 14, 2007
    - Johny Gaddar

    September 21, 2007
    - Dhol

    September 2007
    - Bhool Bhulaiyaa
    - Buddha Mar Gaya
    - God Tussi Great Ho
    - Nanhe
    - No Smoking

    October 12, 2007
    - Jodhaa Akbar
    - Laaga Chunari Mein Daag

    October 2007
    - Summer Of 2007

    November 2, 2007
    - Hanuman Returns

    November 9, 2007
    - Mr. Fraud
    - Saawariya

    November 23, 2007
    - Dulha Mil Gaya

    November 30, 2007
    - Aaja Nachley

    November 2007
    - Love Story 2050
    Source URL: http://trendgrafitiinternasional.blogspot.com/2007/06/
    Visit Trend Grafity for daily updated images of art collection

Bollywood - Movie Release Dates

    June 8, 2007
    - Dharm
    - Kabhi Socha Bhi Na Tha
    - mp3 - Mera Pehla Pehla Pyaar
    - Red Swastik
    - Swami
    - The Train

    June 15, 2007
    - Ghutan
    - Jhoom Barabar Jhoom

    June 22, 2007
    - Bombay To Goa
    - Chain Kulii Ki Main Kulii

    June 29, 2007
    - Aap Ka Surroor - The Moviee
    - Apne
    - Awarapan

    July 6, 2007
    - Jahan Jaaeyega Hamen Paaeyega

    July 13, 2007
    - Fear
    - Naqaab
    - Pachas Lakh
    - The Challenge

    July 20, 2007
    - Cash
    - Partner

    July 27, 2007
    - Kaafila
    - Marigold: An Adventure In India

    July 2007
    - Kaise Kahe...

    August 3, 2007
    - Darling
    - Gandhi My Father
    - Ru Ba Ru

    August 10, 2007
    - Chak De India

    August 22, 2007
    - Speed

    August 24, 2007
    - Heyy Babyy

    August 31, 2007
    - Ek - The Power Of One
    - Goal
    - Ram Gopal Varma Ke Sholay

    August 2007
    - Agar
    - Black N White
    - Chooriyan
    - De Taali
    - Dus Kahaniyaan
    - Familywala
    - Halla Bol
    - Hum Laakh Chhupayein Pyaar ... Magar
    - Mr. Black Mr. White
    - Wednesday
    - Welcome
    - Woodstock Villa

    September 7, 2007
    - My Name Is Anthony Gonsalves

    September 14, 2007
    - Johny Gaddar

    September 21, 2007
    - Dhol

    September 2007
    - Bhool Bhulaiyaa
    - Buddha Mar Gaya
    - God Tussi Great Ho
    - Nanhe
    - No Smoking

    October 12, 2007
    - Jodhaa Akbar
    - Laaga Chunari Mein Daag

    October 2007
    - Summer Of 2007

    November 2, 2007
    - Hanuman Returns

    November 9, 2007
    - Mr. Fraud
    - Saawariya

    November 23, 2007
    - Dulha Mil Gaya

    November 30, 2007
    - Aaja Nachley

    November 2007
    - Love Story 2050
    Source URL: http://trendgrafitiinternasional.blogspot.com/2007/06/
    Visit Trend Grafity for daily updated images of art collection