Rajnikanth in 'Ra.One'?

Is the biggest star of the country -- Rajnikanth -- making a guest appearance in SRK's big-budget extravaganza RA.ONE? There is tremendous speculation on that front. According to a section of the media, there's a sequence in the film that requires the presence of Rajnikanth and reportedly, SRK has requested the veteran actor to be a part of his ambitious venture.

However, RA.ONE director Anubhav Sinha states that they haven't shot the sequence with Rajnikanth yet. "We would love to have Rajni Sir in the film, but the fact remains that we haven't shot the sequence yet. See, we have a deadline to meet [RA.ONE releases worldwide on 26 October]. Only if we manage to film the sequence in the next few days, we would be able to go ahead with it. Else, it won't be possible to have his esteemed presence in our film," Anubhav sets the record straight. 

Meanwhile, RA.ONE is being dubbed in Tamil and Telugu, besides various international languages, and will be released simultaneously with the Hindi version.

Read more »

Anushka Sharma to be brand ambassador of Gitanjali Jewellery?

Anushka Sharma is surely one babe who is on a roll. Be it her smashing debut with Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi or her run away hit Band Baaja Baaraat, albeit not forgetting the bandwagon of brand endorsements, this babe has seen it all and done it all.

Her performance is not just restricted to mesmerizing Bollywood, but also extends to the world of brands. According to Rockunlimited reliable sources, Anushka Sharma has now been signed up as the brand ambassador of Gitanjali Jewellery. 

The official announcement of the same is being awaited.

Read more »

Delhi Belly re-edited and re-dubbed for TV

One of this year's most successful films Delhi Belly is all set to debut on television. But before the world TV premiere, the film is being re-edited and re-dubbed. 

Delhi Belly is a comedy with an adult theme, crass dialogues and explicit scenes.The satellite rights of the movie have been bought by Sahara. The television censor committee had suggested the makers to delete some of the intimate scenes, dialogues and wild gestures. Deleting the scenes and dialogues would spoil the continuity and create a jerk in the story leaving the audience confused; the makers then decided to re-edit and re-dub the film. 

There were rumors that producer Boney Kapoor who bought the satellite rights of the film for Sahara, asked Aamir Khan to re-shoot for the satellite version of the film for which the film is being re-shot at Mumbai's Mehboob Studio for satellite view. But director Abhinay Deo denied it saying, "We have not re-shot any scene, we have only re-edited and re-dubbed the movie for family viewing. I have seen to it that there is no effect on the continuity of the film due to the editing so that the viewers don't feel disconnected and confused." 

Speaking about the explicit dialogues being re-dubbed, Abhinay said, "The film was not about bad language so that won't affect the new version. We have changed the dialogues but the essence and premise of the film is still the same. The film will be different but it will still be funny and the audience will enjoy it"

Read more »

Sameera Reddy injured while shooting for South film Vettai

Sameera Reddy recently injured herself during the filming of a song sequence in her upcoming Tamil film Vettai in Coimbatore.

The film's shooting was being held in the scenic Kutralam locality. Sameera plays actress Amala Paul's elder sister in the film and for a particular sequence Sameera and Amala Paul were required to ride on their respective bikes. It was a part of their introductory song sequence which was elaborately planned by director Lingusamy. Both Sameera and Amala were clad in paavadai-dhavani (Half Saree-a kind of costume which is worn mostly by teenagers). As the shoot was taking place, the outfit got caught in the bike's wheel and she fell on the ground along with co-star Amala Paul. Sameera Reddy's leg was stuck under the wheel and she got severely bruised on her hands and legs. Both actresses were rushed to a nearby hospital for first aid. After taking up first aid at the hospital, the director Lingusamy asked her if she wanted to postpone the shoot as she was badly injured. But the thorough professional that she is, Sameera realized that it could bring in a lot of losses and wanted to continue the shooting. The films unit was impressed by her dedication.

Vettai is directed by N. Lingusamy. The film stars Aarya & Amala Paul along with R. Madhavan and Sameera Reddy. The movie is produced by Lingusamy's home production Thirrupathy Brothers.

Read more »

Salman to remake Manjrekar's Shikshanachya Aaicha Gho in Hindi

Salman Khan is on a high these days with the recent success of his films Wanted, Dabanng and Ready and now, he is all set with his next film Bodyguard co-starring Kareena Kapoor. Though a number of film offers are lined up in front of the star, Sallu is also contemplating to produce act in the Hindi remake of Mahesh Manjrekar's Marathi film Shikshanachya Aaicha Gho.

Salman is very keen to produce the film under Salman Khan Being Human banner, and the proceeds of the movie will entirely go towards the actor's charity foundation.

Although the deal is yet to be confirmed, it is said that Salman is likely to play father to two kids in the film. While on the other hand, we hear rumours that Kangna Ranaut will play the female lead in the film.

However, it is yet to be seen when the film will actually hits the floor as Salman is packed with back to back shoots of Yash Raj Films' Ek Tha Tiger with Katrina Kaif, followed by Sher Khan and Dabangg 2

Read more »

London Indian Film Festival award winners announced

Indian independent cinema's groundbreaking director Ketan Mehta's Rang Rasiya (Colours Of Passion) has won the Audience Award at the 2nd London Indian Film Festival (June 30 - July 12). Audiences voted for their favourite films across 28 screenings during the festival.

Mehta said, "I am thrilled that my passion project has won the coveted audience award at the London Indian Film Festival. The premiere in the historic surroundings of the Victoria & Albert museum was wonderful and the interaction with London audiences was great. This award is the icing on the cake."

The Satyajit Ray Foundation's Short Film Award for 2011 goes to a film that the judges felt was a well crafted, beautifully observed and honest 'day-in-the-life' portrait of a poor but aspirational young boy - "Amar" by filmmaker Andrew Hinton. Hinton said that he would share his £1,000 prize money with the boy. Jury member Menhaj Huda (director of "Kidulthood" and "Everywhere and Nowhere") presented the award.

The festival opened with the World Premiere of Abhinay Deo's Delhi Belly, produced by Aamir Khan Productions and UTV Motion Pictures and closed with the UK premiere of Srijit Mukherji's hit film Autograph, both at the Cineworld Haymarket. The closing night screening was preceded by a performance by chart-topping musician Raghu Dixit and followed by a lively Q&A with Autograph star Nandana Sen, who also stars in Rang Rasiya.

The festival also hosted the UK premiere of Anurag Kashyap's That Girl In Yellow Boots at the BFI and the film has secured UK distribution on the back of the sold out screening. Other highlights were the premieres of Memories in March and Aarekti Premer Golpo (Just Another Love Story) with director turned actor Rituparno Ghosh participating in Q&As about the films that explore gay and transgender experience.

Festival Director Cary Sawhney said, "It's been an amazing year for us, in spite of the recession, many people have got behind our festival and really made it work, including our internationally known team. In just two years we are pleased to have brought to London some of India's top talent, including the World Premiere of Delhi Belly from the Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan stable, which has become a global hit; to sold out Q&As with leading independent directors Anurag Kashyap, Rituparno Ghosh and the legendary Ketan Mehta, at some of London's top venues. Excited about next year."

Read more »

Shazahn Padamsee to be the brand ambassador of Classmate Pens?

Who in India doesn't know the genius of the ad world Alyque Padamsee, who revolutionized the advertising in our country in his own way! Just like him, his daughter Shazahn Padamsee has made her mark in Bollywood by some commendable performances in films like Dil Toh Baccha Hai Ji and Rocket Singh - Salesman Of The Year.

Read more »

Katrina Kaif to go on stage for Mere Brother Ki Dulhan 'Live' gigs

It's fun time for Katrina Kaif. It looks like she has decided to discard her habitually solemn demeanor to have some serious fun. And if 'serious fun' sounds like a contradiction in terms, it nonetheless describes her state of mind to perfection.

And if she has decided to be in the fun zone at the moment, a lot of that zest to be happy comes from the company that she's been keeping lately. Imran Khan, her co-star in Mere Brother Ki Dulhan, has been "really cool company" for Katrina.

Says a friend of the actress, "Katrina found herself warming up not only to Imran but also to his family Avantika. She felt she was part of a family."

And the 'family' has convinced Katrina to go on stage for what is secretly being termed the 'Dulhan' gigs.

Says a source, "The Mere Brother Ki Dulhan producers Yash Raj plan to put Katrina, Imran and Ali Zafar on stage to promote the film. Ali who plays one of the leads asked Katrina if she too would accompany him for the gigs that would take them to several metros. At first Katrina laughed off his suggestion. When Ali was adamant, she wanted to know what she would do on stage. Ali suggested she join him to sing. And Katrina is game."

As things stand the Mere Brother Ki Dulhan live concerts would be Katrina's first ever live concerts. Katrina can't wait.

Read more »

Bbuddah gets U/A certificate

As far as audience-profile is concerned the big starrer Bbuddah...Hoga Terra Baap is already one-up on the Aamir Khan production Delhi Belly. Both release on July 1. But while Delhi Belly has been passed by the censor board with an 'A' certificate (for adults only) Bbuddah... was cleared on Wednesday with a 'U/A' certificate.

The flamboyant new Big B flick Bbuddah...Hoga Terra Baap with the mega-star wearing the most colourful clothes and mouthing the most flamboyant dialogues was passed with almost no cuts with U/A certificate on Wednesday afternoon.

That means, kids can watch the film with their parents. The Wednesday-afternoon censorial approval of the film put to an end all the speculation about the film being too over-the-top for the Big B's image.

Relieved with the censor certificate Bbuddah director Puri Jagannath said, "The censors loved it. They said it's a clean and neat movie."

Only one shot was censored in the entire film.

Says Puri proudly, "It's an action shot. It shows a small-time villain firing bullets in the head. That apart not a shot was censored."

Read more »

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan pregnant

Super model turned actress turned star wife, Aishwarya will soon be turning mother. The actress, who has been steadily gaining weight for the past couple of months, is pregnant.

Though initial reports said that the obvious weight gain was for role in her forthcoming film with Madhur Bhandarkar, at quarter past ten, last night, Amitabh Bachchan gave everyone the good news.

The overjoyed soon to be grandfather Amitabh Bachchan tweeted last night, "NEWS NEWS NEWS !! I AM GOING TO BECOME A GRANDFATHER .. AISHWARYA EXPECTING .. SO HAPPY AND THRILLED !!!"

Later he added, "The child of Abhishek and Aishwarya shall be the first Bachchan of the generation after my brother and me ... Clarifying: Amitabh and Ajitabh , first generation Bachchan ... then Abhishek and Bhim and now Abhisheks and Aishwarya's ..."

The big question however is, what happens to Madhur Bhandarkar's Heroine which stars Ash in lead role. News has it that Madhur will be shooting the film in a start to finish 45 day schedule. The film will be going on floors soon.

Rockunlimited gives its heartiest congratulations to Aishwarya, Abhishek and the Bachchan family.

You too can wish the couple by posting your wishes in the comments section below.

Read more »

Vishal-Shekhar to compose music for The Dirty Picture

There is no denying that music composer duo Vishal-Shekhar are certainly among the most in demand music directors. While they have certain big projects in hand such as Ra.One, Kahaani, Rascals and Bbuddah...Hoga Terra Baap. Now the talented duo has been signed by Ekta Kapoor and Milan Luthria to compose music for their much talked project The Dirty Picture which begins shooting today.

This is the first time that Vishal & Shekhar are working with Balaji. They had been previously approached to score the music of Shor In The City, but things hadn't worked out.

The duo will also be working with director Milan Luthria after a long gap. They had last scored the soundtrack for Luthria's hit John Abraham-Nana Patekar starrer Taxi No. 9211.

The Dirty Picture, a controversial musical entertainer, stars Vidya Balan, Naseruddin Shah, Emraan Hashmi and Tusshar Kapoor.

The soundtrack, featuring five tracks (dance and romantic) is expected to be a killer in true V-S style.

Read more »

'Ready' not postponed, confirmed for 3 June

An irresponsible tweet can cause unimaginable harm to a film-maker. More so if it's tweeted by a media person. Producers Bhushan Kumar and Rajat Rawail were shocked on Tuesday evening when someone tweeted that READY has been pushed ahead by one week. Meaning, it won't arrive on 3 June. The truth is that READY is 100% confirmed for 3 June. The film has also been censored [U/A certificate] and the distributors are all set to take the delivery of prints of this keenly-anticipated film. So there's no question of postponement at all.

Read more »

Arjun Rampal and Jacqueline to do some steamy scenes in Jai Ramji

Arjun Rampal and Jacqueline Fernandez who shared a fleeting moment of song-and-dance camaraderie in Housefull are all set to get really cosy as husband and wife in Tigmanshu Dhulia's Jai Ramji.

Dhulia, who never shies away from hot breathy love-making sequences, recently shot some torrid scenes with Randeep Hooda and Mahie Gill in Sahib Bibi Aur Gangster. For Jai Ramji too he has some extra-special plans for the bedroom.

The idea of casting Jacqueline came to Tigmanshu after he saw the lately-emboldened actress comfortably cuddling up to Emraan Hashmi in the stills of Murder 2.

It's time for the actress to carry her sizzle further in the inspiring company of Arjun Rampal who lately did an semi-x-rated love-making sequence with TV actress Shruti Seth in Raajneeti .

After Preity Zinta, it's Jacqueline Fernandez who has been added to the cast of Tigmanshu Dhulia's rustic tale Jai Ramji. And he plans to add a number of more glamorous babes from Mumbai in even the smaller female parts. He has already spoken to number glam-dolls for even the cameos and walk-on parts. They've all agreed to be part of Dhulia's glamour bazaar.

Tigmanshu's logic is simple. Going rustic and real doesn't mean relinquishing glamour. "This is a logic we've inherited from the art-house films where realism was equated with a lack of glamour. My film is set in a small town. But it will feature sexy glamorous Bollywood actresses. We need to break the stereotypical image of the non-metropolitan cinema as being dry and unexciting. I think women in small town can be very sexy."

Director Tigmanshu Dhulia is rather irked with the lack of glamorous sexy women in commercial Hindi films about semi-rural characters.

Jacqueline Fernandez will play Arjun Rampal's wife in Tigmanshu Dhulia's Jai Ramji. And with good reason. Dhulia wants to add an element of urbane glamour to the rustic saga.

Says the director, "Her role is very similar to Pooja Batra's in Priyadarshan's Viraasat. Remember the girl from abroad who comes to Anil Kapoor's village? Jacqueline faces the same cultural heat. Suddenly this metropolitan girl from Mumbai has to go and live in Lucknow with her husband. She resents the heat dust and boredom. Jacqueline was perfect for the part since she has the correct body language of the city-bred girl placed in a semi-rural environment."

Tigmanshu intends to hold workshops to make Arjun and Jacqueline comfortable before they get cosy for the camera.

Read more »

Aadesh Shrivastava's brother dies in car accident

Life couldn't have got more cruel than this for musician Aadesh Shrivastava. On one hand, he just fought his way out of cancer and on the other hand, he got a sudden shock when he got the news of his brother's death.

His brother, Chitresh Srivastava, was working as the noted singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan's manager since the last few years. Chitresh, met with a car accident and died on the spot, in Chicago where they were travelling for a concert. Reports have it that, his car was trailing Rahat's vehicle when the incident occurred. Unfortunately, Chitresh died on the spot while three others including Rahat's cousin were very badly injured. They are arranging to fly down Chitresh's body to India for the cremation.

Readers may note that, Chitresh, prior to joining Rahat, had assisted his brother Aadesh, and has also worked as an assistant music director in films like Aankhen, Zameen, Veergati, Major Saab etc.

Read more »

Kalki Koechlin to star in Dibakar Banerjee's Shanghai

Kalki Koechlin was recently in the news for her wedding to Anurag Kashyap. However, the actress with a French connection is now in the news for professional reasons. Kalki has been signed for Dibakar Banerjee's Abhay Deol- Emraan Hashmi starrer Shanghai.

Kalki will be paired opposite Emraan in the film. Besides Abhay, Emraan and Kalki, Bengali superstar Prosenjit and veteran actor Farooque Sheikh too form important members of the cast of Shanghai.

Read more »

Anushka to slim down further…

Anushka Sharma has been asked to get leaner and toned than ever before!
The reason? Yash Raj Films has asked her to shed any extra inches gained before she begins shooting for her next film Ladies Vs Ricky Bahl. The actress has had a long break after the shoot of her last project Band Baaja Baraat.
The production house is very strict when it comes to the fitness of their heroines. While signing a film, their contract insists they be of a certain weight and have a specific Body Mass Index.
A source reveals, “A foodie she binged on her favourite delicacies and let herself go. YRF has instructed her to go slow. The actress began working out with her trainer and got a toned look. Since she has a high metabolism rate, losing weight quickly isn’t a problem.”

Those who have worked with the banner insist that they are pretty weight-specific when it comes to the women. “Every one from Kareena to Deepika have followed the YRF diktat of getting the right digits on the weighing scale. It’s a rule they don’t let anyone break.”

Read more »

Salman Khan's ladies only bash

Salman Khan, one of the most sought after bachelors in filmdom, threw a ladies-only bash recently and his co-star Asin Thottumkal says the girls were happy to be partying with the Bollywood star.

The party was on Monday. After the music release of " Ready", Salman decided to have an impromptu bash in his pad that has been put up for him at Film City for the shooting of his brother-in-law Atul Agnihotri's " Bodyguard". His "Ready" co-star Asin and Zarine Khan immediately accompanied Salman.

"Well, it's true. Salman invited all the female actors from 'Ready'. We all went up to his very comfortable and large pad with a view. It has a garden and it has a beautiful view outside. Salman makes a wonderful host. The ladies were all happy to be partying. Suddenly Salman remembered their husbands and invited them too," said Asin, who worked with him in " London Dreams" as well.

"It was great fun though. I was the odd one out since I don't drink. After a while it gets boring for both me and the others guests to keep wondering why I am not drinking," she added.

Asin is impressed by Salman's bonding with the women in the cast. "All the ladies who play his aunts and relatives just dote on him. He makes them all feel like part of his extended family," said the actress who is taking a break and going home.

"I am taking off for Kerala for a couple of weeks. At the moment I've no other Hindi film on hand. So I can afford the time off."

Asin has apparently been offered everything from Anurag Basu's "Barfee" to Sajid Nadiadwala's "Kick". But after films with Aamir Khan, Salman and Ajay Devgn, she's at the moment looking at a film with a leading man of her own age group.

Apparently Asin has been offered Sajid Nadiadwala's "2 States" with Shah Rukh Khan. Again, another generation altogether!

Read more »

Akshay Kumar returns in Khatron Ke Khiladi - 4

COLORS' flagship show Fear Factor Khatron Ke Khiladi is all set to present an innovative 'integrated product' for the first time on Indian television. This summer, the audiences can expect the best of action unfold as India's thrilling reality show Khatron Ke Khiladi returns with the Akshay Kumar as the host. Season 4 promises 'Torchaar' and extreme adventure and inculcates the spirit of pushing boundaries to experience that one moment of thunder.

After three successful seasons COLORS' 'Khatron Ke Khiladi - Torchaar' reaches the wild land of South Africa with 13 striking hunks and 13 female partners. An exciting bouquet of 13 women from different walks of life will be paired along with common heroes! The participants will be pushed off their comfort zone, the level of stunts and tasks will be extreme and intense than ever before, making this a deadly combination of drama and action on small screen! The winner will not only be bestowed with the coveted title of being the 'Khiladi' but also chosen as the 'Thums Up Thunder Star'. The 'Thums Up Thunder Star' will get an exclusive opportunity to feature with the Thums Up brand ambassador Akshay Kumar in the brands new communication campaign.

Ashvini Yardi, Head of Programming, COLORS says, "With every season of Fear Factor Khatron Ke Khiladi, our endeavor is to present something new, exceptional and clutter breaking to the viewers. Akshay Kumar returns as the host along with 13 men attempting the deadliest stunts shot in the exotic locales of South Africa, Khatron Ke Khiladi - 'Torchaar' making it a must watch this summer."

Akshay Kumar who believes in performing every stunt prior to the boys has gone through rigorous training himself. Straining every muscle of his body, he is back with a vengeance only to break hell loose on the boys.

Talking about his comeback on Khatron ke Khiladi - 'Torchaar' Khilaadi of Bollywood, Akshay Kumar says, "It feels good to be back to my home ground with Khatron Ke Khiladi and it is exciting to do something which I love to do - adventurous stunts. As the name suggests it will be 'torchaar' to the core and the boys will be expected to perform some really edgy stunts. The girls too can shed their vanities and nervous giggles and be prepared to face challenges thrown their way. I am going to be absolutely tough and brutal with the boys and yes it will be worth watching."

Read more »

SRK to do cameo in Always Kabhi Kabhi

It has been known for some time now that Karim Morani's daughter Zoa is being launched by Shah Rukh Khan's Red Chillies Entertainment in Always Kabhi Kabhi. However, there was much speculation about SRK's presence in the film.

Well, it has now been confirmed that King Khan will not be a part of the film but he will do a promotional video for it. The said promotional video will feature SRK talking about his school days.

With the backdrop of high school students, their issues and their relationships, the film is expected to hit the screens on June 17. Besides Zoa, the film also stars Love Aaj Kal damsel Giselle Monteiro, Ali Fazal and Satyajeet Dubey.

Read more »

Suniel Shetty & his wife to be brand ambassadors of Raheja Waterfront

Gone are the days when actors were only actors on the silver screen. Today, they are springing from almost everywhere as not just mere actors, but producers, directors, script writers and last, but not the least brand ambassadors (although, the last option is the most lucrative one of all of them).

That 'Mr. Muscleman' Suniel Shetty is synonymous with hospitality business is well known. He has now taken this a step ahead and has become the brand ambassador of Raheja Waterfront . The source added that Suniel will be sharing his 'brand ambassadorship' with his wife Mana Shetty.

Repeated attempts to establish contacts with the Shettys proved futile.

Read more »

Vidya Balan's cameo in Dum Maaro Dum

Vidya Balan seems to be seen in more cameos these days. Only recently we informed you about her cameo in the multi-starrer comedy Thank You. Now news has it that Vidya would also be seen doing a cameo in Rohan Sippy's Dum Maaro Dum.

The buzz is that Vidya plays Abhishek Bachchan's wife in the film. It may be recalled that AB Jr. and Vidya did make for a cute pair in Paa, hope they are able to re-create the same magic once again in Dum Maaro Dum.

Read more »

Kangna Ranaut to play Abhishek's life partner in RGV's Department

Day by day, Kangna Ranaut is becoming the talk and the toast of the town. At a time when the industry folks started hurling comments like being 'typecast' as an actress who plays the damsel in distress kind of roles, came a film called Once Upon A Time In Mumbai, in which she played the 'heroine' to the hilt! Post OUATIM came Tanu Weds Manu, a film in which she was appreciated to the core.

Well, the good time seems to be on a 'role' for Kangs, as the reports state that she met with RGV to be finalized as the leading lady for his forthcoming film Department, a film about three cops and the extra-constitutional activities they engage in to maintain a civil society. Reports also have it that she will be playing the role of Abhishek Bachchan's soul-mate and life partner.

With Game's release just around the corner (in which she plays a police officer), one would be more than eager to know about her role in Department!

Read more »

Get ready for Sheetalbhabhi.com, the film

This summary is not available. Please click here to view the post.

Read more »

Lucasfilm - Prime Focus to convert Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace to 3D

Lucasfilm, one of the world's leading film and entertainment companies, and Prime Focus, the global visual entertainment services company have announced their collaboration on the 3D conversion of Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace for theatrical release, heralding a new era in Star Wars entertainment.

Utilizing Prime Focus' proprietary View-D process, the conversion is scheduled to hit 3D theater screens on February 10, 2012. Involving meticulous crafting and attention to detail by Prime Focus' global contingent of artists, the 3D release promises a wonderfully immersive experience for devotees of the original, and a big screen introduction for a whole new generation.

"It was incredibly important to me that we have the technology, the resources and the time to do this right," said Star Wars creator George Lucas. "I'm very happy with the results I've been seeing on Episode I."

Prime Focus founder and CEO Namit Malhotra said, "Wherever you are in the world, the Star Wars films have become part of the very fabric of filmmaking - the epitome of the big screen experience. To be chosen by Lucasfilm as a trusted partner, and to be given the time and the opportunity to re-present this series as a new experience to both old and new audiences alike, is an incredible honor. For a project of this importance and magnitude, Lucasfilm and ILM would only have chosen a company with the best talent in the industry, leading proprietary technology and infrastructure, a production-proven pipeline and unmatched scale. I am hugely proud that Prime Focus is that company."

The extensive conversion process is being completed under the close supervision of John Knoll, Visual Effects Supervisor for ILM.

"Getting really good results from stereo conversion requires a lot of attention to detail and it is imperative that you take the time to get it right - and that's just what we're doing," said Knoll. "We're taking a different approach than you might expect. George's vision has been to add dimension to the film in subtle ways. This isn't a novelty conversion, with things jumping out at the audience; our ambition is been to enhance the Star Wars theatrical experience, utilizing the latest tools and techniques."

Prime Focus has delivered work on films such as Avatar, Shrek, Tron: Legacy, Narnia: Voyage of The Dawn Treader and most recently Sucker Punch. Deploying its global View-D conversion crew on the Star Wars project, led out of the Prime Focus Hollywood office, artists in Los Angeles, London and Mumbai are delivering shots via Prime Focus' 'Global Digital Pipeline.' In collaboration with ILM, the meticulous conversion is being completed with the utmost respect for the source material, and with a keen eye for both technological considerations and artistic intentions.

Read more »

John and Bipasha signed up as brand ambassadors for Wella Hair Colour

John Abraham and Bipasha Basu make the hottest couple not just onscreen but off screen as well. The couple will now been seen together for a huge brand endorsement.

Bollywood Hungama's reliable sources said that John and Bipasha have now been signed up as brand ambassadors for Wella Hair Colour. Wella has been a respected brand world over for hair products.

The official announcement of the same is awaited

Read more »

News Break: 'Ready' first look

Are you ready for the first look of the latest Salman Khan starrer READY? Post WANTED and DABANGG, Salman Khan has emerged one of the biggest crowd pullers of Hindi cinema and every film of his carries humungous expectations. While READY is confirmed to hit the screens globally on 3 June, the producers will reveal the first look poster of this keenly anticipated film on 5 April, while the first promo will be unleashed on 15 April. "We are trying to plug it during the IPL as well," READY producer Bhushan Kumar informs me.

Meanwhile, the worldwide theatrical distribution rights of READY have been picked up for a fantastic price.

Read more »

Sid Jain talks about animated Andaz Apna Apna and other line up of IRock this yea

At the on-going FICCI-FRAMES 2011 convention in Mumbai, Sidhartha M Jain of iRock announced quite a few interesting films which his company would be making in the days to come. iRock is the name behind films such as the forthcoming flick Ragini MMS and Shaadi Of The Dead.

Speaking at FICCI-FRAMES 2011, Sidhartha said, "We are ready with Ragini MMS which is India's first found footage reality horror film. The film is made in association with Balaji's ALT Entertainment. Post that we have India's first zombie comedy film Shaadi Of The Dead starring Abhay Deol and we are in the process of finalizing a few other actors. It's a never before seen concept of zombies gate-crashing a big fat Punjabi wedding. We also have a film called Bloody Veer in the pipeline and also have plans to make India's first space adventure film."

However the last project which Sid announced took everyone by surprise. He said, "We would also be making an animation sequel to a very popular film - Andaz Apna Apna. We are pretty focused that we are creating content for the youth in the age group of 13-35 years."

iRock, which received initial funding form Manmohan Shetty, also has Mr.Shekar Kapur on board as a Mentor. In fact, Shekhar is closely involved with iRock's forthcoming project Shaadi Of The Dead.

Read more »

James Cameron visits Priyan's Malayalam film set in Abu Dhabi

The Titanic-Avatar's director James Cameron is planning a film based in India. In Abu Dhabi earlier this week, for a media summit, Cameron suddenly landed up on location to watch Priyadarshan shoot a Malayalam film with Mohanlal.

Cameron spent a good two hours with Priyan and his leading man. "He didn't know anyone from the Indian film industry except Vidhu Vinod Chopra. He didn't know me or my work. But had an insatiable curiosity about what I was doing and where I came from. He is going to watch my Kanchivaram," says Priyadarshan proudly.

When James Cameron suddenly dropped in on location at Abu Dhabi to meet Priyadarshan, the Avatar director only knew he was going to meet a prolific South Indian filmmaker. When Cameron heard Priyadarshan's output he was shocked.

Cameron, who has directed barely 32 films in 33 years of his career, thought he had heard wrongly. And considering Priyan's thick accent, it'd be easy for a Canadian to misunderstand.

Speaking from Abu Dhabi, Priyan laughs, "When I told him that I had made 81 films he just couldn't believe it, and asked me to repeat the number. Cameron makes one film every 3-4 years. For him to understand how we filmmakers operate in India is impossible."

Cameron was under the impression that Priyadarshan only directed South Indian films. On hearing of Priyan's track-record in Hindi, Cameron desired to watch his Bollywood films. But Priyan shied away from exposing his Bollywood side to Cameron.

Recounts Priyan, "When he got to know I make Hindi films too, he wanted to see some of my work in Bollywood. But I am not showing him my Hindi films. I want him to watch my Kanchivaram. Most, including me, consider it my best work. It is also my most Indian work. I want him to get a feel of the real India through Kanchivaram."

Priyan will send Cameron a DVD copy of Kanchivaram. "We exchanged email IDs and phone numbers and I intend to keep in touch with him, and not only because I admire his work so much but also because he was such a humble down-to-earth man. He kept telling me to shoot as it was approaching dusk and the light would fade."

Priyan wanted to attend Cameron's lecture on the 3D technique in Abu Dhabi. "But I couldn't get the time. I'm going to connect with Cameron now and we'll exchange ideas. A joint venture? Why not?"

In fact, Priyan and Cameron have already discussed a collaborative endeavour. We are not supposed to know about it. But it's apparently a film that Cameron will produce and Priyadarshan will direct.

Read more »

Kareena Kapoor to be brand ambassador of Lavie range of handbags

The charm and the magic of Bebo is not just restricted to Bollywood but has reached the shores of ad world too!

Well, after having lent her name and face to a million products, Kareena Kapoor will now be seen as the brand ambassador of Lavie range of handbags, inform Bollywood Hungama's reliable sources. The source also added that Kareena will be shooting for a TVC and also press ads that revolve around the theme 'Me, Myself & I'.

Read more »

Zarine Khan signed for Housefull 2

The cast of Sajid Nadiadwala's Housefull 2 directed by Sajid Khan seems to get bigger by the day and the latest addition to the cast is Zarine Khan.

Zarine, who debuted opposite Salman Khan in Veer, joins Asin and Jacqueline as the female leads of the film. Meanwhile the 3 male leads are of course Akshay Kumar, Riteish Deshmukh and John Abraham. However it's not yet revealed whom Zarine is paired opposite as the story is full of twists and turns.

With such a mammoth cast, the makers sure have a House Full of stars.

Read more »

Celina Jaitly injures her hand

The gorgeous Celina Jaitly had a freak injury when she sprained her hand while doing some household work. Though it's not a major scare, the actress has been advised to take it easy for a few days.

Celina has a major film Thank You releasing next month (April 8) so she would be hoping she recovers soon so that she could take active part in the promotions of the film.

We wish Celina a speedy recovery.

Read more »

Yash Raj Films launches youth films studio called Y-Films

A while ago we had informed you that Yash Raj Films is planning to launch a new division targeting the youth. The wait has now ended as Yash Raj Films has launched its youth films studio called Y-Films. The new division is a dynamic, vibrant start-up at the intersection of films, creativity and youth culture that hopes to challenge the norm and detonate boundaries. It promises to give the youth a creative outlet and voice that will entertain and unite on films and beyond.

The youth is the largest movie going audience - both in India as well as overseas. However, currently there has been no focused attempt to create films for them, unlike the West where the teen film is a genre of its own. And given the fact that over 70% of India is below the age of 35 - it's too big an audience to ignore.

Y-Films is headed by Ashish Patil, formerly head of youth music channel MTV in India. Patil adds, "Y-Films promises to deliver kick ass films of the youth, by the youth, for the youth. And be a platform for new talent - both on screen and behind the scenes - who will challenge, break and set new rules of story telling. Get ready to spread the Y-rus!"

The films will be laser-focused on the universe of the young covering all genres - thrillers, comedies, chick-flicks, capers - with some really fresh music. It's an aggressive slate with the first film - Luv Ka The End, an 'anti-rom-com' - gearing up for release on 6th May, 2011 starring Shraddha Kapoor and a fresh new cast. The promos for this are expected to break at the launch event end-March.

Read more »

Veteran actor Naveen Nischol passes away

Naveen Nischol was one of the very few actors who were successful in films as well as television. The talented actor passed away this morning due to heart attack.

After having made his debut with the Hindi film Sawan Bhadon in the year 1970, Naveen went on to do films like Buddha Mil Gaya, Victoria No. 203, Dhund… to name a few and of course the most recent being Khosla Ka Ghosla and Break Ke Baad. He also became a big name on television in the 90s due to the popular TV serial 'Dekh Bhai Dekh'.

Rockunlimited prays for his soul to rest in eternal peace.

Read more »

Priyanka Chopra to be brand ambassador of Nikon?

Priyanka Chopra is one person who rightly belongs to the place where she is now: 'Numero Uno'. Be it her films, hosting reality shows or brand endorsements, she is the reigning queen.

Bollywood Hungama's reliable sources inform that Priyanka has now been signed up as the brand ambassador of Nikon cameras. The source also added that the brand was looking for someone who is nothing short of a Bollywood diva. And Priyanka Chopra is someone who fitted the bill to a 'T'.

The official announcement of the same is awaited.

Read more »

Gul Panag to marry boyfriend Rishi Attari

It seems to be the year of weddings, with Lara Dutta tying the knot with Mahesh Bhupathi, and now we hear that Gul Panag will soon be walking down the aisle as well. Yes folks, the Turning 30 actress will be tying the knot with long time boyfriend and former classmate Rishi Attari, who is a pilot by profession.

Gul, who recently had a gala bachelorette party in Delhi, has her wedding scheduled to take place this Sunday in Delhi. However, the mehendi and sangeet ceremonies will be held in Chandigarh. Gul will also have a wedding reception in Mumbai for her Bollywood friends.

Read more »

Major changes in Shah Rukh's film production methods

Shah Rukh Khan's Red Chillies Production house is no more a one-man show. In what seems to be major revision in his working methods, Shah Rukh, known to have his finger in every pie, has decided to delegate more authority and power to his extremely efficient colleagues and directors.

This critical decision must be weighed in the light of Shah Rukh's decision to devote the most time to what he really loves doing the most: acting and being with his family.

Says a source close to SRK, "All these years Shah Rukh has been able to devote himself with equal passion to a number of activities both within his own production house and outside. But now, he wants to focus on what he loves best. He wants to build his equity as an actor. At the same time he doesn't want to miss out on his children's growing years."

To implement his new energy-conservation policy, Shah Rukh has withdrawn his responsibilities towards the post-production of Ra.One.

Says the source, "Earlier whenever Shah Rukh produced films, he was hand-on in every department. This time he has left the entire production and post-production in other professional hands, so much so that he hasn't even watched the rushes of Ra.One as yet. As far as he is concerned, his job as an actor and producer in Ra.One is done. His team has now taken over."

Most of Shah Rukh's associates have observed that he has now become a team player.

Says a close friend, "Earlier he took personal charge of everything that flowed out of his production house. That has changed now. Maybe it's the IPL effect on Shah Rukh. But he now insists on other professionals in his production house doing their jobs while he does his own."

Director Anubhav Sinha confirms that Shah Rukh Khan has not seen the rushes of Ra.One yet. "I've been persuading him to watch it. But he has been shrugging it off. As far as he's concerned he's moved on. 'Picture ban gayi na. Now is the time to focus on its marketing,' Shah Rukh told me. He has always been a restless soul. Now he is even more so."

This refusal to rest on laurels and to linger on current production activities is an indication of the direction Shah Rukh's life will take in the coming years.

It's time for the superstar to let others in his company make their presence felt. It's also time for the mega-star to stop being taken for granted.

For years Shah Rukh has played cameos, done guest appearances and voiceovers for friends and strangers. Now, we are told, he won't be taken for granted.

Read more »

Asha Bhosle to make her big screen acting debut in Maaee

Talent is a strange thing. It often makes the talented do things that the world looks at and says, "Why?" Or "Why now?" Talent often has no answer other than to say, "Well, it just felt right." And so you see artistes often branching out into fields other than their own, sometimes related to what they acquired fame in, sometimes not really related. So Tagore took up painting at a later stage in his life leaving an indelible mark on the field, actors like Aamir Khan and Robert Redford decided to direct. And now it is that living legend Asha Bhosle - whose voice has been instrumental in shaping the characters that actresses were trying to portray on screen - has decided to step in front of the camera herself.

Perhaps the signs of her acting ability were already seen in her music videos and even her on-camera interviews. No one who has seen Ashaji in her music videos can deny that she has an irresistible magnetism and undeniable charm on camera. It is that magnetism and charm that made producer Nitin Shankar decide on Ashaji as the perfect person to embody the title role in his debut Hindi Feature film Maaee. The film tells the poignant tale of what happens when a woman is abandoned by her only son and then goes to live with her daughter and son-in-law. It is a complex role, but director Mahesh Kodiyal has no doubt that Ashaji will be able to pull it off.

When asked what it was that drew her to make her big screen acting debut, Ashaji said in her inimitable style, "Well, to start with, it was something that I hadn't done so far. My fans know very well that I do whatever my heart says is good to do. And the moment this story was narrated to me, I connected so very strongly with it as a mother and a human being even though it was so far removed from my own life and experience. I knew then and there that there was no way I could let the opportunity to essay this character pass me by." It also added to her comfort that in this touching story of a mother-daughter relationship in the present day, the critical role of her daughter was being played by Padmini Kolhapure, not only another well regarded actress of Indian Cinema, but also someone she has worked with and knows well and last but not the least her son Anand Bhosle who felt that the script was great and whose opinion she trusts immensely.

Maaee goes on the floor in April this year and will be shot entirely in Mumbai. Ashaji is already bubbling with the creative energy that she brings to everything that she touches.

Read more »

Housefull 2 to be shot in virgin locales like Chile and Argentina

Housefull 2 will be shot in Chile and Argentina where no Hindi film has been shot before. "Besides these virgin locales, we're also shooting Housefull 2 in the UK, Phuket and Hong Kong," informs Sajid. It's not just virgin locations that turn on Sajid Khan. It's also virgin pairs. "That's why I've replaced all the girls. I've paired Asin for the first time with Akshay, John Abraham for the first time with Jacqueline Fernandez. We're looking for a leading lady for Riteish Deshmukh," informs Sajid Khan. Now that Riteish's good friend and co-star Jacqueline has moved on to John on screen, one wonders whom Riteish will get paired with in Housefull 2! Sajid is also excited about bringing the two brothers Randhir and Rishi Kapoor together. "I'm their huge fan. I had so much fun working with Dabooji in Housefull. And Chintuji is arguably the most natural entertainer we've ever had in our films. And guess what? I'm naming them 'Daboo' and 'Chintu' in the film as well." Sajid Khan is in principal against sequels. "I dropped plans of doing a sequel to my Heyy Babyy. But Housefull is a franchise. My producer Sajid Nadiadwala and I want to carry it forward. We've retained the name and the basic premise of a house crammed full with character chaos and comedy. Everything else is completely different from the first Housefull."      View Comments   |    Post Comments

Read more »