Bollywood Bites Plus

Tears of Joy vs Tears of Sorrow

Aishwarya Rai and Madhur Bhandarkar

By: Kamini Elisha, Special Contributor to MyBindi.com

 I'm sure that everyone at some point has heard or read about the much anticipated movie Heroine starring Aishwarya.

Ash was to portray the journey of an actress who sees ups and downs on her path to superstardom and faces many emotional battles on the way.

All of Bhandarkar's films like Chandini Bar, Page 3, Traffic Signal, Corporate and Fashion gave me insight into what happens behind the scenes within certain industries, and Heroine was to be no exception.  I for one was looking forward to this film and the opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes look at a new genre, compliments of Bhandarkar.

Now, however, my gears have shifted.  What was supposed to be a beautiful collaboration between some very talented people has turned into … well, basically a fight.

Many of you already know that Bhandarkar is upset after he got knowledge of Ash's pregnancy through the media like the rest of us.  He believes that Ash should have told him months earlier so that he could've made adjustments which could have evaded his loss of money and time spent on his dream project.  Basically I think he feels a little jipped.

Now be that as it may, I don’t think any person should be under any obligation to divulge personal information until they feel it is the right time for them, especially something like pregnancy.

I can understand Bhandarkar's stance on feeling like he was left in the dark, but he is an employer not a family member.  Ash is not under any obligation to tell anyone until she feels that her pregnancy is in the "safe" zone now and she can relay this information to others.

Furthermore, Bhandarkar is the one to cut Ash from the film based on the fact that he feels the film's shooting schedule and action sequences would be too physically stressful for a pregnant woman to handle.  He goes on to say that if something happened to her he would never forgive himself.

Mr. Bhandarkar, a pregnant woman has an enormous amount of resilience.  The female body is made to deal not just with the physical stress of birthing, but the emotional and mental stress as well.  I think the expectant mother would be in a better position to determine what her limitations are and make those calls herself.  She, above all, would be the person most concerned about her baby's well being and avoid anything that could potentially harm them both. Her concern for her child would supersede your concern for her by far.

Let's be honest.  Just admit that Heroine needs the lead actress to look very glamorous and if your lead actress is pregnant, gaining weight and looking chubby, you've got a problem.

Speaking from personal experience, my pregnancies were healthy ones and I was very active during both of them. I did kickboxing, boot camp, took long walks and maintained my house work.  It's something my body was used to pre-pregnancy and it's a regime I retained throughout.  How can anyone assume that a woman becomes incapable of doing her job if she becomes pregnant?  If you're healthy and the pregnancy is healthy, then you're capable.

This incident has some production houses toying with the idea of placing a pregnancy clause in their contracts before they sign on a heroine for a film.

Have we gone backwards in time?  Am I still allowed to vote?  Hell, can I even work?  Women's rights issue anyone?

Sometimes people just get pregnant without planning to.  What kind of consequences would these women be faced with if they've signed a contract?

Women make the world go round in the truest sense.  If we didn't birth everyone on this planet there would be no one to run it, yet some of us are chastised through loopholes for doing so.

Boohoo, your dream project is postponed or shelved altogether because your heroine is pregnant and your conscience doesn’t allow you to put her into harm's way.  This is your decision not Ash's.

I don't know either of these people personally and have no preference for one over the other, but the facts are quite simple.  Employee gets pregnant, employer wants her out.

My husband and I have had some healthy debates over this, and I would like to now open this debate up to you.  What's your opinion?

I say draw up a contract so that you can't be dropped from a film just because you get pregnant.  If you're pregnant, willing to work and your doctor has given you the green light then the medical expertise of your employer can go….

Mr. Bhandarkar, I understand that this film is your baby, but Aishwarya is actually having a baby.  Maybe you should stop acting like one and grow up!

Singham Makes the 'Masala Movie List'

The trend of atypical masala entertainers began all over again with WANTED, which was effectively emulated by the super-successful DABANGG. The larger-than-life hero knocks down 50 thugs and sends them flying in the air with just one punch. He romances the heroine. Puts his life at stake by catching the bull by the horns. Emerges victorious in the finale... Come to think of it, the Indian audience is starved for true-blue masala entertainers that were admired and revered in the 1970s and 1980s. Oh, can we ever forget the serpentine queues outside cinema halls to watch those movies, starring our fav stars? With SINGHAM, the Ajay Devgn - Rohit Shetty team goes back to their roots; both started with action films, if you recall -- PHOOL AUR KAANTE and ZAMEEN, respectively. SINGHAM is one of those earthy, traditional, uncomplicated masala movies that most of us grew up on. The protagonist of SINGHAM is not the desi version of James Bond, nor is he any kind of a superhero.

SINGHAM pays homage to the action films of 1970s, which was known for the heroism, death-defying action sequences and pulse pounding thrills. It's an acknowledgement to one of the most successful genres of Bollywood -- action movies -- known for the trademark good versus evil themes and well choreographed stunts. Unlike many films recently, SINGHAM revives memories of the bygone era that stressed on raw action and was rich in fist-to-fist combat scenes. In fact, it has traces of action that Ajay's father [Veeru Devgn] and Rohit's father [Shetty] immortalized in their movies. But SINGHAM is a film of today, hence the stunts are extremely stylized and polished in keeping with the times. It's raw power presented in a slick demeanor.

Since the time the first promo of SINGHAM went on air, for some strange reason, I've heard people calling it yet another adaptation of DABANGG. The sole similarity between the two films is that both Salman and Ajay wear uniforms in the film. Also, like DABANGG, it's a hero-villain drama. But beyond these two factors, there's no commonality actually. For those who aren't aware, SINGHAM is the remake of the Tamil hit SINGAM, a role made memorable by the towering talent Suriya.

SINGHAM works for varied reasons: The conflict between the protagonist [Ajay] and antagonist [Prakash Raj], the high quality dramatic scenes, the raw action and of course, it mirrors the viewpoint of the common man on the rampant corruption, fraudulent politicians and spineless goons. In short, SINGHAM works as an entertainer, a complete package and if I may say so, it's Rohit Shetty's best work so far.

The backdrop is Shivgad, a small village on the border of Maharashtra and Goa. The film tells the story of an honest, diligent cop Bajirao Singham [Ajay Devgn], who fights against injustice and prejudice using his own ethics and principles. A sudden strike of destiny sets up Singham against the powerful criminal/politician Jaykant Shikre [Prakash Raj], challenging his morals and beliefs. Jaykant's powerful planning and force makes Singham land up in the ruling city of Jaykant Shikre, where he leaves no stone unturned to make Singham's life a nightmare to live.

Singham's supportive girlfriend Kavya [Kajal Aggarwal] and his tryst with late Rakesh Kadam's family [Sonali Kulkarni] makes him realize the importance to bring a change in the system by eradicating the root cause -- Jaykant Shikre -- by not going against the law of force, but by being a powerful part of it.

Though a remake of a super-successful film, director Rohit Shetty ensures that he keeps a tight rein on the writing of the film throughout those 2 + hours. Oh yes, the hero is spotlessly white and the villain, all black, but despite the fact that you know it all, there's no boring or humdrum moment at all. In fact, the drama and also the execution of the written material keeps you completely hooked to the proceedings. Also, Rohit proves that he can deliver a masala flick with as much ease and proficiency as he can deliver a slapstick comic caper.

I'd like to make a special mention of the action scenes [designed by Rohit Shetty and executed by Jai Singh]. At a time when most film-makers opt for action directors from abroad for gadget-driven thrills, SINGHAM goes for the desi flavor and it works luminously. The raw, hardcore action is easily amongst the high points of the movie. On many occasions than one, you have your hearts in your mouths while watching the scenes and what makes it really special is the fact that Ajay has done those death-defying and hazardous stunts himself.

For any good versus evil film to click, it ought to have the protagonist and the antagonist on the same podium. In SINGHAM too, it's not just the hero who's powerful and mighty; the villain is equally ferocious. That's what makes the conflict all the more enjoyable -- it's a fight of the equals. Besides the sequences involving them, a number of dramatic sequences leave an indelible impression. Like the sequence when Ajay bashes up the goons who misbehave with Kaajal in a movie theatre. Also, the sequence between Ajay and the minister [Anant Jog] is terrific. And, of course, the finale, which is simply outstanding. The writing [screenplay: Yunus Sajawal], in a nutshell, is aimed at the masses and works big time.

But even roses have thorns and the aspect that doesn't really gel is the romance between Ajay and Kaajal. In fact, the romance-and-song routine comes across as a road block and mind you, it has nothing to do with the lack of chemistry between the two actors. It's because the drama is so powerful, commanding and omnipotent that you want every other aspect to be sidetracked. Ajay-Atul, who came up with a lilting soundtrack in the Marathi film NATARANG, don't get the opportunity to deliver a sparkling soundtrack in SINGHAM. Yet, the title track [rendered with a lot of fervor by Sukhwinder] is the sole track that works. Dudley's cinematography is eye-catching. Farhad-Sajid's dialogue are the icing on the cake, especially during the confrontational moments. I'd like to make a special note of Amar Mohile's effectual background score. It deserves immense praise!

The title means 'Lion' and Ajay is in the centre of the battle between good and evil. The embodiment of screen masculinity, Ajay enacts the central character of a righteous, hardhearted cop with flourish. He brings alive on screen a larger-than-life hero character with determined conviction, which renders you thunderstruck. One of the few actors who underplays his part admirably, he returns to the over-the-top-action genre of films with this one. In a nutshell, his performance plays a pivotal role in carrying the film to the winning post.

Kaajal doesn't really get much of an opportunity to prove her talent and the film cannot be regarded as an ideal Bollywood debut for her. However, it's not the amount of screen space that she gets, but it's all about the quality work she delivers in that much time and space. This may be an out-and-out Ajay-Prakash Raj film, but she makes her presence felt nonetheless. Prakash Raj is simply marvelous and in fact, walks shoulder to shoulder with Ajay in dramatic scenes. The film has a number of actors in supporting roles and the ones who register the maximum impact are Sonali Kulkarni, Ashok Saraf and Govind Namdev. Amongst negative characters, Ashok Samarth, Murli Sharma and Anant Jog are most effective. Sudhanshu Pandey leaves a mark in a cameo. Sachin Khedekar's comedy track doesn't work at all.

On the whole, SINGHAM is a full-on masala film that works big time for varied reasons: The energetic drama, the terrific confrontations, the raw stunts and of course, for the three 'heroes' -- Ajay Devgn, Prakash Raj and director Rohit Shetty. It's a complete package of entertainment for the masses and devoted fans of masala movies. This one is sure to roar at the box-office. It has Blockbuster written all over it! Singham in now plying locally at Albion and Woodside Cinemas.

Singham is NOW playing at Albion Cinemas and Woodside Cinemas. Click HERE for showtimes and tickets.

MyBindi.com is a proud promotional partner of Albion and Woodside Cinemas - delivering the best of Bollywood Cinema in the GTA!

Aisa Masala! Mehndi! Masti! Na milega dobara!

Back to its roots, Masala! Mehndi! Masti! (M!M!M!) is going to stage its aMMMazing FREE annual festival from Aug 19-21 at the Harbourfront Centre where, 10 years ago, at the dawn of the new millennium in 2001, it bursted onto the Toronto arts and culture scene to forever leave an incredible and indelible mark.

For its film segment this year, M!M!Movies! featured personality will be none other than Bollywood’s new wunderkind, Abhay Deol. Fresh from his latest superhit ‘Zindagi na milegi dobara’ that has received rave reviews worldwide, Abhay is now definitely a force to be reckoned with.

Abhay hails from the legendary Bollywood family of the Deols and is superstar Dharmendra’s nephew, son of his younger brother, Ajit Deol. From being nominated for best male debut actor in 2005 in his first film- Socha Na Tha, Abhay has come a long way in 6 years.

His second film was Ahista Ahista in 2006. In 2007, he became more prolific, acting in three movies. His first 2007 release was Honeymoon Travels Pvt. Ltd. which had a multi-star cast and emerged as a box office success. His second release for the year was Ek Chalis Ki Last Local. His third film in 2007 was Manorama Six Feet Under, which won the Best Film at the Mahindra Indo-American Arts Council Film Festival in New York City . He also won the Best Actor award for his role in the same movie. His 2008 release was Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye!, which won an award for most popular film.

Deol devised and enacted the title role of Devdas in the Hindi film Dev.D. Nikhat Kazmi, the critique for Times of India gave the movie a perfect 5 out 5 stars in his review. This chef d’oeuvre swept away 6 Filmfare awards rivaling the success of Aamir Khan’s ‘3 Idiots’.

In 2010, his film Road, Movie had a special screening right here in the mighty Toronto at the Toronto International Film Festival.

Deol has been on the cover of Man's World and Time Out Mumbai, with titles such as "the new face of Indian cinema". He was placed seventh on Zoom's "50 Most Desirable Hotties" poll for 2009.

Deol has also started producing films through his company Forbidden Films. For Basra, the first film under his new production company, Deol learned the Israeli martial art, Krav Maga. He also trained to be a deep-sea diver for his latest hit film Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara which was filmed in scenic and sunny Spain.

He is currently filming Shanghai.

M!M!Movies will be hosting a Q&A session with Abhay Deol and will also be holding an ‘In conversation with Abhay Deol’ discussion. Everybody is invited. There will also be a retrospective of his movies including (subject to change):

• Dev D
• Honeymoon Travels PVT. Ltd.
• Oye lucky! Lucky Oye
• Manorama six feet Under
• Ek Chalis Ki Last Local

Session times: Friday, Aug. 19, 7pm & 11pm | Saturday, Aug. 20, 12:30pm, & 10pm | Sunday, Aug. 21, 12:30 pm
Where: Studio Theatre

In addition, rising Canadian star, Vinay Virmani, who is the protagonist in the yet to be released movie ‘Breakaway’ will also take part in an interactive conversation with the public. Breakaway is a cross-cultural drama of a hero caught between his family’s traditional expectations and a dream to make it big in hockey, the national winter sport of his adopted country, Canada.

The Masala! Mehndi! Masti! Festival of 2011 runs from August 19-21 at the Harbourfront Centre in Toronto. Click HERE for a complete schedule of events.

MyBindi.com is a proud sponsor and programming partner of Masala! Mehndi! Masti! 2011. 

 

 

Disney Releases Indian Films on DVD

Today, Disney has released its first Indian films into the home entertainment market across North America. This includes the award-winning Rishi Kapoor comedy DO DOONI CHAAR, the special effects-filled fantasy adventure ONCE UPON A WARRIOR, and the superhero film ZOKKOMON.

All three films are available now simultaneously on multiple platforms including DVD, video-on-demand, and digital download.  DVDs will be in stores, Netflix, Amazon.com, and other outlets. Numerous providers are offering the films on VOD including Comcast, Time Warner Cable, Cox, Verizon, AT&T, DirecTV, InDemand, TVN, Charter, Playstation, and Xbox. And those that prefer digital download can get the films on iTunes and on other popular platforms.

More information on the films and their availability can be found on the official site: www.DisneyWorldCinema.com.

SYNOPSES

Zokkomon

Kunal (Darsheel Safary), an orphaned boy, discovers how cruel life is when he is abandoned by his heartless uncle (Anupam Kher). Left to fend for himself, Kunal soon realizes the hero within and begins his epic journey of adventure and transformation to become Zokkomon. Zokkomon will soar into the hearts and lives of audiences everywhere, to take his place alongside the world's most beloved heroes.

Once Upon a Warrior

Set in the fictitious teardrop-shaped land of Sangarashtra, Once Upon A Warrior follows the epic journey of Moksha, a nine year old girl with special healing powers. As she embarks on a quest to save her homeland from the tyranny of an evil Queen, Moksha joins forces with the swash-buckling blind warrior, Yodha, and his gypsy girlfriend, Priya. Working together, will all three be able to save their village from the evil Queen's army?

Do Dooni Char

Life can be tough for an honest, principled school teacher, Santosh Duggal, who is constantly coping with the demands of his family versus his ever-decreasing salary. His teenage daughter is an independent rebel, his ambitious son is involved in illegal gambling and his wife has a taste for the finer things in life: just a typical, middle-class dysfunctional family. When the Duggal family decide to follow their dream and upgrade from a scooter to a car, they embark on a roller-coaster ride filled with chaos and laughter and ultimately, they learn to celebrate the true meaning of family.

FILM: Bollywood and Beyond at the ROM

This documentary film series presents a multifaceted view of Bollywood culture, industry, celebrity and beyond.

FILM: Shot in Bombay

A fast-paced, often surreal documentary film exploring the thin lines that separate crime from punishment and fiction from reality in and around the Bombay film industry.

With unprecedented behind-the-scenes access to a star-studded Bombay gangster movie, Shot in Bombaytells three entwined stories: the rise of the city's underworld in the 90s, the tribulations of superstar, Sanjay Dutt, on trial for alleged involvement in India's largest terrorist attack, and a young director's quest to master the delicate art of making a Bollywood blockbuster.

When: Thursday, September 22, 2011
Where: Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto
Time: 7pm to 9pm
Admission: Public $12| Members $10 |FICC Members $8

Click HERE for more information.
 
FILM: The Sound of Mumbai, A Musical 

Dir. Sarah McCarthy, India/United Kingdom, 2010

The Sound of Music, with its imagery of mountains and edelweiss, may not seem like a natural fit for India’s Maximum City, but the Bombay Chamber Orchestra begs to differ. Recruiting kids from the slums - home to half the city’s population - the Orchestra sets out to stage a choral performance of the Rogers & Hammerstein score. In capturing the process, The Sound of Mumbai: A Musical overflows with emotion. It doesn’t matter whether you’ve previously embraced or resisted The Sound of Music, after this rendition your association will never be the same.

At the center of the story is eleven-year-old Ashish, whose wide smile and optimism defy his family’s constricted slum shelter. He admits to lacking confidence as he copies out in his notebook, "I will not be self-conscious." His natural charisma suggests that he could go far if given the right opportunity. Now he’s tasked to perform a solo piece from The Sound of Music at Mumbai’s National Centre for the Performing Arts, normally inaccessible to the poor. He can’t help but attach dreams to the event; he hopes to win the affections of an upper-class girl and inspire a patron to sponsor his education. With so many hopes riding on this single performance, the stakes are high for everyone, and viewers are pulled straight into the excitement.

When: Tuesday, September 22, 2011
Where: Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto
Time: 7pm to 9pm
Admission: Public $12| Members $10 |FICC Members $8

Click HERE for more information.

 

These events are part of an ongoing exhibition at the Royal Ontario Museum - Bollywood Cinema Showcards: Indian Film Art from the 1950s to the 1980s. On NOW and until October 2nd, 2011.

Click HERE for more information.

Amitabh's Look in Aarakshan

Amitabh Bachchan characters and the style they carry have always been inspirational and quite the trend setters.  Be it the Jai of “Sholay” to Auro of “Paa”, people have loved and admired his characters and followed his style.  Amitabh Bachchan strives to entertain, and thus he not only works on the role given to him but also adapts and carries any new look and style that is associated with the role with a open mind and taking inspiration from real life - be it the director of the film. 

Any director having worked with Mr. Bachchan or planning to work with him really does his due diligence in visualizing and implementing the details of the character he is to play from costume to mannerism. The look and style of Dr. Prabhakar Anand, the character played by Amitabh, has a somewhat of a different approach in Prakash Jha’s next film – AARAKSHAN.  Even though we have seen Mr. Bachchan in a similar character, the audience with not only get to see him in a new dramatic avatar as it would be the first time when the look of the character is inspired by the director himself.

The character is designed while keeping Prakash Jha’s look in real life in mind: the way he keeps his hair; to the thick rimmed frames; and to the solid kurta colors, the khaadi jacket and the checked muffler to complete the entire look. Amitabh Bachchan is all ready to appear in  theatres this August in his next film AARAKSHAN. Priyanka Mundada, the costume designer of the film, said, “It was an interesting sitting I had with Prakash ji and Mr. Bachchan when we were discussing the look of his character in the film. When looking at Mr. Jha, he points out and says ‘That's it, that is Prabhakar,’ both Prakash ji and I were quite taken a back.”

Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara Merits 3.5 Stars

By and large, after graduating from school/university, before one steps into a fresh phase in life, friends do settle on having some fun… It could be an extended bachelor party. It could be an excursion. Living each moment to the fullest is what most of us are thinking at that point of time. ZINDAGI NA MILEGI DOBARA is also about living each precious moment, as if there's no tomorrow. It's a film that also deals with surmounting and overpowering our personal fears. In this case, it changes the lives of three youngsters who embark on a road trip to Spain.

Zoya Akhtar represents the new brigade in Bollywood. But the talented storyteller is mired in controversies pertaining to ZINDAGI NA MILEGI DOBARA. Is it similar to HANGOVER? Or is it a present-day adaptation of Farhan Akhtar's directorial debut DIL CHAHTA HAI?

Sure, ZINDAGI NA MILEGI DOBARA is a buddy film like DIL CHAHTA HAI or like any other film that focuses on friends. But comparing DIL CHAHTA HAI and ZINDAGI NA MILEGI DOBARA won't be correct. For, the difference lies in the fact that the individuals in both the films face diverse problems. Aamir, Akshaye and Saif's dilemma is different from that of Hrithik, Farhan and Abhay. Perhaps, people tend to draw parallels between the two films because both focus on male bonding and are also produced by the same production house [Ritesh Sidhwani, Farhan Akhtar]. While DIL CHAHTA HAI was about the friendship between three youngsters and the individual journey each of them undertakes subsequently, ZINDAGI NA MILEGI DOBARA is poles apart in terms of content [screenplay: Reema Kagti and Zoya Akhtar] as well as execution of the written material.

There's concern that ZINDAGI NA MILEGI DOBARA caters to the urban centres of India chiefly. People beyond the metros wouldn't be able to relate with the goings-on. Sure, ZINDAGI NA MILEGI DOBARA is a refined film, a metro-centric film primarily, so what's wrong with that? Yes, it's unlike the masala films some of us relish with glee. But if masala means entertainment, amusement, hilarity, escapade, emotions and drama, yes, ZINDAGI NA MILEGI DOBARA has it all. Only thing, it's treated differently. Everyone has his/her style of interpreting a tale, after all.

ZINDAGI NA MILEGI DOBARA is real and can be rightly termed as a slice of life film. The protagonists don't play 'heroes' in the conventional terms; they are not presented as larger than life here. Zoya's ability in bringing offbeat elements in mainstream cinema needs to be applauded and appreciated. Zoya understands the intricacies of human behavior, which was evident in her debut film, and ZINDAGI NA MILEGI DOBARA strives to impeccably integrate authentic characters and bona fide situations on celluloid.

But the film is not without its share of blemishes. To start with, the drama is missing in the first hour. In fact, the first half comes across as a collage of some well executed sequences. Also, the comic scenes fail to evoke mirth. The three protagonists' attempt to scare strangers in a restroom, bar and on a lonely street doesn't gel well with their suave personalities on-screen. However, if the intention was to evoke laughter, sorry, these scenes fall flat. Besides, mocking at Doordarshan seems out of place and also appears in poor taste. Most importantly, the first half comes across as a showreel to promote Spain Tourism.

Another aspect that goes against the film is its running time. One tends to get restless after a point. In addition, the pacing is lethargic at places and it also gets talk-heavy. Zoya could've been ruthless in bringing down the length of the film. It would've only been more impactful.

Three young men take a holiday that changes their lives forever. Kabir [Abhay Deol] is engaged to Natasha [Kalki]. Kabir decides to go on an extended bachelor party, before he gets married. A 3-week road trip with Imraan [Farhan Akhtar] and Arjun [Hrithik Roshan], his two best friends since school. The only problem is Arjun is too tied up with work. After much emotional blackmail and cajoling, the boys set off on a journey they were meant to take four years ago. A fantasy holiday they had planned to take after college, which never happened. A road trip where each one gets to do the ultimate sport of his choice and the other two just have to do it with him. Whether they want to or not!

Kabir, Imraan and Arjun meet up in Barcelona and set off on an adventure that not only make them iron out their differences, but also face their fears, alter their perception, unravel their fabric, force them to break out of the box and teach them to seize the day. This holiday changes their lives forever.
 
A travel film is tough to shoot. And it gets all the more difficult when you have a story involving multiple characters. Unlike LUCK BY CHANCE, Zoya does something visually and thematically diverse this time around. In ZINDAGI NA MILEGI DOBARA, Zoya chooses an attention-grabbing story and garnishes it well with moments that may seem straight out of a person's memoirs. In fact, it's a completely novel take on comrades and camaraderie. While the first half has several wonderful moments [the strain between the two friends is well presented], the post-interval portions -- right till the well-thought-of culmination -- keeps your attention arrested.

Reema and Zoya have penned the script with a lot of care and concern, borrowing incidents from real life. Besides, the fresh dialogue [Farhan Akhtar] augment the impact of numerous sequences. The exquisite cinematography is another aspect that catches your attention. The spectacular locales of Spain have been captured on celluloid with dexterity by Carlos Catalan. In an era where earsplitting and tawdry tunes are working big time, Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy come up with tunes that the youth would take a fondness for instantaneously. The songs that appeal the most are 'Ik Junoon' and 'Senorita'.

The film boasts of an exuberant on-screen ensemble cast. As a matter of fact, it's an unusual mix of actors who are not prisoners of any image as such and one is curious to see how well they coagulate in this film. Hrithik takes up challenges for himself with every project he chooses to do and tries to outdo himself by pushing his limits. He is in terrific form here, interpreting an extremely intricate and exceptional character fluently, channelizing every emotion in the book through his eyes. The much-talked-about kissing scene in the film is also aesthetically filmed.

Farhan's character is totally different from his previous roles since he is playing the funster here. But beneath all the fun and jokes is a person who's looking for answers. He's concealing something even from his buddies, something that's disconcerting him persistently. Again, for someone who's not a veteran at acting, this is a character that needs to be handled with a lot of understanding and Farhan, thankfully, gets it right. In fact, Farhan is quite a scene-stealer on more occasions than one.

Abhay's choice of roles has always been offbeat and ZINDAGI NA MILEGI DOBARA reaffirms his stand on the kind of movies he wants to be associated with. Enacting the role of a rich, well brought-up youngster, Abhay is in supreme form, striking a super balance between light and dramatic moments. In fact, Abhay portrays the role with plentiful charm and magnetism.

Katrina is a revelation. In fact, the actress continues to surprise you with her performances in film after film. Besides making an impact as a glamour girl, she's all out to prove her mettle as an actress of substance with ZINDAGI NA MILEGI DOBARA. Kalki plays a Mumbai girl belonging to the upper crust and though it's not a typical 'heroine' role, Kalki infuses life into the character, fitting into the conceived character accurately. Naseeruddin Shah is remarkable in a cameo and so is Deepti Naval. Ariadna Cabrol doesn't get much scope.

On the whole, ZINDAGI NA MILEGI DOBARA has its share of plusses and minuses, highs and lows. It's definitely not for ardent fans of kitsch or those with an appetite for typical masala entertainers. This one's more for spectators with refined tastes and sensibilities. It's a film for a more evolved, mature and cinema-literate audience that's geared up to embrace and support newer genres of cinema.

Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara is NOW playing at Albion Cinemas and Woodside Cinemas. Click HERE for showtimes and tickets.

MyBindi.com is a proud promotional partner of Albion and Woodside Cinemas - delivering the best of Bollywood Cinema in the GTA!

Murder 2 Review

We live in an era wherein brands and franchise have become the order of the day. When a movie works with the audience and also has strong recall value, the film-makers plan to keep the franchise breathing by either making a prequel or sequel. Though MURDER had released more than seven years ago [April 2004], it continues to linger in public memory for varied reasons and not only for its sizzle factor. MURDER had a spellbinding story, great music and proficient performances by its principal actors. In fact, MURDER catches the attention of spectators to this date and obtains high TRPs, despite several telecasts on TV. 'Tremendous repeat value', like they say in filmi parlance.

Mahesh Bhatt and Mukesh Bhatt choose not to make movies with big stars. Instead, they substitute stars with big initiatives and innovative concepts. In fact, their penchant to work with a new cast and crew is simply unstoppable. Besides, the success ratio indicates that their strategy has paid off rich dividends even with fresh talent. What sets apart their films, besides the above said reasons, is the fact that their films are high on sexual content. An innovative story with generous doses of eroticism has always proved a winning blend.

The Bhatts' new offering is the sequel to MURDER. This one's set in Goa during Christmas and New Year, when vacationers flock this hugely popular touristy destination. The bustling streets and beaches make it impossible for the authorities to keep tabs on everyone and everything.

Before I begin analyzing MURDER 2, let me clear a few misconceptions. The writer of this film may have drawn some inspiration from the Korean film THE CHASER [2008], but it's not a blatant rip-off. Nor is it a remake or adaptation of the American action film 12 ROUNDS [2009]. MURDER 2 deals with the crimes related to the flesh trade and exposes the murkier side of the society.

MURDER 2 offers edge of the seat entertainment, thus taking the MURDER brand forward. It's not a sequel in the true sense of the word. It has a completely new story to tell with fresh characters, is bolder and far more erotic, plus the clash between the good and the evil is one of the key components of the franchise.

Mohit Suri, who had directed the sequel to RAAZ [RAAZ THE MYSTERY CONTINUES], is also entrusted the responsibility of taking the MURDER series forward. Compared to what Anurag Basu did in MURDER, MURDER 2 is a dark film. Mohit is an efficient, stylish storyteller and he leaps notches above the prequel in every aspect. There are some scenes that may appear disturbing, but that's the strength of this movie. It's not for the weak-hearted. In point of fact, Mohit and writer Shagufta Rafique take the story to a heightened violent level.

Arjun [Emraan Hashmi] is an ex-cop who earns his bread doing the odd jobs for gangsters and flesh traders. Arjun meets Sameer, a Goan flesh-peddler, who has been suffering a huge loss as his hookers have been disappearing mysteriously. He assigns Arjun the responsibility of tracing the missing girls. Priya [Jacqueline Fernandez], a model, loves Arjun. However, he is hesitant to commit to this relationship.

Arjun realizes that the missing hookers are connected by one cell phone number. He decides that in order to catch the lion one must feed him the lamb. He devises a plan that involves sending a girl to the particular customer.

Reshma [Sulagna Panigrahi], a college student, takes to prostitution to support her family. She becomes the innocent prey and is sent to the antagonist Dheeraj's [Prashant Narayan] house. The unexpected happens. In the meantime, Arjun and Dheeraj cross paths. Arjun gets into a tiff with Dheeraj and they both land up at the police station. Dheeraj admits to a crime so heinous that even the police are stunned by his outrageous behavior.

Now it's all up to Arjun. He has just one night to find proof against Dheeraj and also trace Reshma.

Director Mohit Suri and writer Shagufta Rafique come to the point at the very start, when a gruesome murder takes place. Thereafter, we are introduced to the varied characters in the plot and what makes it all the more interesting is that all characters are either grey or black. Also, the identity of the serial killer is never concealed, but the motive is, which one realizes much later. It comes as a jolt, honestly!

While the screenplay gives you no time to ponder since it unravels at a feverish pace, the assorted characters and their tracks keep you on tenterhooks throughout. The victim finds herself cornered, the ex- cop is looking for evidence, the serial killer finds himself being shielded by a powerful and influential person... the sequence of events that lead to the culmination are truly nail-biting.

On the flip side, the story stagnates slightly towards the beginning of the second hour. The sequence between Emraan and Jacqueline at the former's home, with Jacqueline in an inebriated state, appears like a forced add-on. Also, one misses the chartbusting 'Bheege Honth Tere' kind of track in this hour, since the two songs that are hugely popular have been placed in the first hour.

Director Mohit Suri reignites the flicker that he illustrated in his early films. He's a skilled, competent storyteller and this film reiterates the fact yet again. Ditto for writer Shagufta Rafique, who's supremely talented as well. Though she may seem inspired from a source, Shagufta gives MURDER 2 her own color and shade. Both Mohit and Shagufta push the limits in terms of the characters and the situations that have been created. You just can't guess what's up in store next, which has ample scenes that would leave you startled and dazed. The Bhatts have always had a good track record as far as music goes and MURDER 2 is no exception. If one avoids comparing the soundtrack with the prequel, this film has a rich soundtrack that works well. 'Haal E Dil' [music: Harshit Saxena] and the track filmed on Yana Gupta at the onset, 'Aa Zara' [music: Sangeet Haldipur-Siddharth Haldipur], are first-rate compositions. Ravi Walia's cinematography is top notch.

Both Emraan and Prashant Narayanan vie for top honors. Emraan delivers a spirited performance, playing the angry guy to perfection. He's so with the character. In fact, this would rank amongst Emraan's most accomplished performances. Prashant is a dynamic actor -- a fact that has been proved time and again. This film is sure to make people sit up and notice this wonderful talent. Stepping into Mallika's shoes in the sequel is Jacqueline. Like Mallika, she takes the boldness quotient to the next level with her sexy avatar. She should grab a lot of eyeballs for the oomph factor, while her performance is decent. In fact, she gets little scope to display histrionics, but she makes a sincere attempt to portray her character with care.

Sulagna Panigrahi is a talent to watch out for. She's first-rate. Sudhanshu Pandey enacts his part with a lot of confidence. Sandiip Sikcand surprises with a stellar act. Though a brief part, his performance adds a lot of spice to the proceedings. Shweta Kawatra shines in that lone sequence. Yana Gupta sizzles in the opening track.

On the whole, MURDER 2 is one of the finest crime stories to come out of the Hindi film industry. Also, as a film, it lives up to the expectations that you may associate from a sequel of a smash hit. This one's bolder, more erotic and has a story that will astound and astonish you. The Bhatts have a winner on hand!

Murder 2 is NOW playing at Albion Cinemas in Etobicoke. Click HERE for showtimes and tickets.

MyBindi.com is a proud promotional partner of Albion and Woodside Cinemas - delivering the best of Bollywood Cinema in the GTA!

IIFA 2011: Fab or Faux?

By: Kamini Elisha, Special Contributor to MyBindi.com

I don't know if anyone else was in the same predicament as me on award night.  Should I order? Should I not order? OMG, it's 40 bucks and really I could get this on DVD in a couple of weeks for $1.50 … etcetera, etcetera.

Then I started watching the OMNI coverage (comical and infuriating) and decided … hey, why not!

Well, the show started promptly on Indian standard time; almost an hour late.  This, along with a flustered and tongue-tied Lisa Ray filling in that hour gap, set the tone for the IIFA evening.

At least for me.

So the dignitaries from the Indian film industry are all seated on comfy black fold-out chairs with their names written in black marker on torn sheets of paper to identify who sits where.  Wow...classy!  What's Rogers’ profit for the first half of this year?

Anyway the hosts, Ritesh Deshmukh and Boman Irani, finally get the evening rolling and manage to get some laughs out of me, along with some blank glazed-eye stares.  Overall, I like them.  I especially enjoyed the trailer remakes they starred in and the banter with SRK.

Suddenly a grown man has lunged towards SRK and is now clinging to his legs.  I, along with some members of the audience, wasn't sure if this is scripted, or if the entire security team has gone on a collective coffee break.

Okay SRK is saying "kya kar rahe ho, pair pe laga hai."  Meanwhile the grown man is still petrified to SRK's leg reminding me of a toy monkey I had that could do the same thing, only around your neck.  This can't be real, right?

The question still haunts me.

On we go to a very lackluster performance by Kangana Ranaut (who looks as glazed as I did earlier) followed by a no-show by Priyanka Chopra for her green award.  We stared at our TV for 30 seconds listening to the IIFA theme in the background before we (and the award presenters) are told she is getting ready for her performance.  Nice job stage director.

I decide that I have already lost my $40.00 and am committed to watching this thing if only to get my money’s worth.  Second wind kicks in, and, besides, I have been waiting with bated breath for Asha ji's tribute by Priyanka.  Asha ji is my favourite singer and this will surely get me my money’s worth, right?  Wrong.

They had a Rangeela, a Rang De, a Aiye Meherban and some others.  Priyanka did a good job of grooving as she always does, but if you are going to pay tribute to an icon who has given us music for over 60 years, you should've picked a song from each decade, no?

Give me:

Reshme Rumal Kurta Jaali Ka

 

Hum Intezaar Karenge Tera Qayamat Tak

Jaaiye Aap Kahan Jaaenge

Chura Liya Hai Tumne Jo Dil Ko

Pyar Mein Dil Pe Maar De Goli

Jawane Jaaneman

Dil Cheez Kya Hai

These are just a few examples of her diversity in love songs, ghazals and disco numbers.  It also showcases her journey throughout her career which did not start in the late 60's.

Okay so to hear Asha ji accept her award in her sweet voice and sing live for us definitely gave me $25.00 worth. Where do I find my outstanding $15.00?

I attempted to find it in comical and awkward moments.

I loved Dharm ji's speech/babble.  He is all heart and all honesty and although he did carry on, it was genuine enough for me to enjoy. 

I found it comical when Anil Kapoor said Urdi Shairu before saying Urdu Shairi.  That made me giggle like a fool for a while (remember I am grasping at straws here). And then there was Sunny Deol's expression the entire time he was on stage with his dad.  He clearly looked uncomfortable and out of place just standing there. I got the feeling he was praying for Harry Potter's invisibility cloak the whole time.

I thought the most awkward moment was when Lisa Ray was presenting an award to Anushka Sharma and called her Anushka Shankar.  You were reading from a teleprompter for God's sake.  I can't make up an excuse for you even if I tried.  Karan Johar had to yell from the sidelines that "it's Anushka Sharma not Shankar."

The "Grand Finale" was supposed to be SRK shaking a leg to his hits, but the drugs were wearing off and the hour of evening was beginning to show its effects.

I have to say SRK is a real sport.  He really did try to move and groove, but he just couldn’t ignore his body's request to chill.  I appreciated the fact that he couldn't dance so he decided to help choreograph a number for the audience.  He even had some hankies distributed, but I didn't pay to see a bunch of Indians getting jiggy with it.  I've seen that plenty of times at my family's Punjabi wedding reception.

SRK had to listen to his body at which point I decided to listen to mine.  I turned off the telly (before the show ended), cut my losses and made a vow to always watch these awards shows at a cost of $1.50 a DVD from now on, AMEN.

Murder 2 Preview

Arjun Bhagwat is a Goan ex-cop who earns his bread doing all the wrong and odd jobs. His family was so troubled by their poverty that it became difficult for them to survive. For Arjun, money became a priority and the basis for any job he took up.

Arjun meets Sameer, a Goan gangster who has been suffering a huge loss as his hookers have been running away. He immediately assigns Arjun for the job offering him a huge sum and knowing his skills of investigation as an ex-cop in order to find those girls.

Priya, a young girl who plays a model in the film, is deeply in love with Arjun. However, he is hesitant to admit it as for him the only thing that matters is money. Thru his investigation, Priya does not understand his hesitance in giving a name to their relationship.

Whilst investigating, Arjun realizes that the girls missing are connected by one cell phone number. He decides that in order to catch the lion one must feed him the lamb. He devises a plan that involves sending a girl to that particular customer.

Here comes in Reshma, a young college girl who is into the profession of prostitution in order to feed and support her family. She becomes the innocent prey, and is then sent to the antagonists' house, Dheeraj Pandey. The unexpected happens as we reveal that Dheeraj is a serial killer who plays a eunuch in the film. He is a sex addict and hence, decides to brutally murder women.

But as fate has it, through the journey of investigation, Arjun and Dheeraj cross paths. Arjun gets into a tiff with Dheeraj and they both land up at the police station. Dheeraj being the sociopath admits to a crime so heinous that even the police gets shocked by his behaviour.

Now it's all up to Arjun Bhagwat. He has one night to find some proof in order to keep Dheeraj in jail. He needs to find Reshma because he begins to feel guilty about his plan of sending her as bait. He realizes that Reshma's background is similar to his and hence, feels compassion towards her. Through his investigation, he meets several people who have had an encounter with this serial killer including his family and a hooker who managed to escape.

Things don't go as planned and Dheeraj leaves the police station as a free bird as there is no evidence against him. Meanwhile, the next victim on his list turns out to be Priya. The road for Arjun is now difficult. Will he be able to gather substantial evidence? Will he find Reshma and save Priya or will it be too late?

Starring: Emraan Hashmi, Jacqueline Fernandez
Director: Mohit Suri

Murder 2 is releasing Friday, July 8th at Albion Cinemas. Click HERE for showtimes and tickets.

MyBindi.com is a proud promotional partner of Albion and Woodside Cinemas - delivering the best of Bollywood Cinema in the GTA!