TV actor Parth Samthaan to debut opposite Shahid’s sister Sanah

Television actor Parth Samthaan is all set to make his Bollywood debut opposite Shahid Kapoor’s sister Sanah Kapoor. Sanah recently made her acting debut with brother Shahid Kapoor’s film ‘Shaandaar’ starring Alia Bhatt.  Parth has been signed opposite Sanah for an untitled romantic comedy.

“It is true. I don’t want to talk about it much because we are trying to keep it a little low key for now. The film is about to start and we are figuring out a few details.It is a romantic comedy backed by lot of strong characters,” Parth told PTI.

The film will be directed by Karan Kashyap, who has assisted filmmaker Mani Ratnam, and assisted directors on films like ‘Chak De India!’, ‘Don’ and ‘Saathiyaa’. The film also stars Paresh Rawal and Sanah’s father Pankaj Kapur.

“We have Paresh Rawal, Pankaj Kapur on board. I am nervous to share screen space with them. I will soon start my workshop and will try matching up to these great actors,” Parth said.

Best known for playing Manik Malhotra in the popular show ‘Kaisi Yeh Yaariyan’. Parth says his role in the film will be a mature one and not youthful. “It is not a ‘youth’ film. My show is youthful, but the film will be a proper mature, family drama with well written characters. It is in that genre,” he said.

He is excited to team with the ‘Shaandaar’ actress. “I am very happy. Sanah is very exciting. We will soon start working on our roles. Next month we will have our sitting where we will discuss the film, narration and everything,” the actor said.

The film will hit the floor on February 2016 and will hit the screens later next year.

Karisma, Sunjay not getting divorced?

Actress Karisma Kapoor and estranged husband Sunjay Kapur who had filed a divorce petition by mutual consent in 2014, have both decided to withdraw the petition for separate reasons.

Reportedly the couple have not been able to reach a consensus on the set terms of a certain welfare Trust that Sunjay is setting up for their children — Samaira and Kiaan,  aged 10 and five respectively.

The court set the matter for decision on Friday, November 27 after their conversation with Sunjay over video conferencing, as he is currently in the US. The court had directed both parties to file replies to each other’s applications.

The couple have been arguing over the terms of the Trust. According to Karisma’s lawyer Kranti Sathe, Sunjay was not complying with the terms and is refusing to handover control of the Trust as well as the flat in Mumbai to the children’s mother.

Sunjay’s counsel Aman Hingoran on the other hand said that  Sunjay doesn’t want to handover the control of the Trust to Karisma. He alleged that because of this, the actress was not allowing Sunjay to meet his children, and also added that Karisma and both the children were well provided for financially by Sunjay.

Karisma’s lawyer, however, slammed reports of her withholding child visitation rights.

“Whenever he visits, he has been getting regular access to his children and he has not been denied the right to meet his kids,” Karisma was also quoted by leading daily.

 Karisma and Sunjay tied the knot on September 29, 2003. Karisma separated from Sunjay after the couple’s second child, son Kiaan was born in 2010. After a little over a decade of marriage, they filed for legal separation in 2014 in Bandra Family Court.

Meanwhile, Karisma is rumoured to be romantically involved with one Sandeep Toshniwal, who is into Pharma business, while Sunjay has been linked to Delhi-based socialite Priya Chatwal.

Cute photo: Lara Dutta smiles wide with daughter Saira

Lara Dutta and her adorable daughter Saira Bhupathi looked cute in the latest photo shared by the actress. The mother-daughter duo matches smile in the picture.

Lara captioned the picture as follows, "The smiles that happen after mother and daughter re-unite!!!"

Lara looks lovely as always while her bundle of joy sports fun pink braids and clips in her hair.

In the past, Lara Dutta shared a picture when she was snapped enjoying a sunny afternoon with daughter Saira during the US Open. Tweeting this picture, Lara wrote: "Mother and daughter take in a bit of the US Open experience at flushing meadows!"

Lara Dutta and ace tennis player Mahesh Bhupathi got married on 16 February 2011 in a civil ceremony in Bandra and blessed with a baby girl, Saira in January 2012.

Sonam Kapoor starrer biopic ‘Neerja’ to hit screens on Feb, 2016

‘Neerja’, the biopic on the life of the late air hostess Neerja Bhanot starring Sonam Kapoor in the titular role, is set to hit screens on February 19, next year. The ‘Khoobsurat’ actress took to Twitter to announce the release date of her upcoming film.

“A 23 year-old-girl did something extraordinary. #Neerja's inspirational story is set to release on Feb 19 @foxstarhindi @BlingLive,” Sonam posted on the micro-blogging site on Thrusday, along with a picture of her look in the movie.

Twenty-three-year-old Neerja Bhanot was a flight attendant of Mumbai-based Pan Am airlines. The brave lady gave up her life while saving the lives of passengers from terrorist on board a hijacked Pan Am flight in Karachi in September, 1986.

Neerja posthumously became the youngest recipient of India's highest civilian award for bravery, The Ashok Chakra, while Pakistan also bestowed the prestigious Tamgha-e- Insaaniyat Award to her for showing incredible human kindness during the hijack.

Noted adfilmmaker Ram Madhvani is making a biographical film on the late flight attendant which is being produced by celebrity photographer Atul Karbekar under the banner Fox Star Studios. The film also stars veteran actress Shabana Azmi who plays the role of Neerja’s mother Rama Bhanot. ‘Neerja’ went on floors in May this year.

"Neerja is one of the unsung heroes of India whose story should be an inspiration for everyone... We will be releasing Neerja on February 19 for the people the world over to know and celebrate the story of a 23-year-old girl who found courage and self-sacrifice in an extraordinary moment in her life," said Vijay Singh, CEO, Fox Star Studios.

Neerja's story is one that just "had to be told", according to Atul.

Snapped: Aamir Khan moves out of India with his family

Perfectionist Aamir Khan, who off-late roped in a controversy over his latest remark on ‘Intolerance’, headed to the USA for his upcoming film, ‘Dangal’. Wrapping up Ludhiana shoot quickly, the perfectionist takes the flight to the USA amid high security.   

He was spotted at the Mumbai International airport surrounded by extra security. A source confirmed, “After finishing the Ludhiana schedule of Dangal, the actor will soon leave for US for a short while!” It is also learnt that the actor is moving out of the country for few days with his family to until things come to normal. A source said, “We don’t know anything yet. It’s absolutely chaotic. You saw how it is. They’re planning to go to US for few days, and will be back when it all settles.”

While shooting in Ludhiana for ‘Dangal’, Aamir Khan’s security tightened up. Paparazzi spotted Aamir at the airport last night heavily guarded.

It was also reported earlier that Aamir, who has gained too much weight for ‘Dangal’ might be flying to the USA with his trainer to come to the normal shape to enact the younger version of his character.

The 50-year-old actor plays the role of Haryanvi wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat in the sports biopic. Mahavir is the father as well as the coach of Indian women wrestlers Geeta Phogat and Babita Kumari Phogat.

Actress Sakshi Tanwar will play the role of his wife in the film while newbies Fatima Shaikh and Sanya Malhotra will play the couple’s daughters Geeta and Babita respectively. Zaira Wasim and Suhani Bhatnagar will play the younger versions of the daughters. Rajkummar Rao will also feature in the film. ‘Dangal’ is being directed by Nitesh Tiwari and is slated to release in December, 2016.

Bigg Boss 9: Rimi Sen to move out of the house tonight?

From day one, Bollywood actress Rimi Sen has shed enormous tears to quit the show and often seen regretting her decision to take part on the show. Rimi, who regrets being part of the show did not actively, took part in any of the tasks and now tonight it will be decided whether she will prefer to stay or leave the house. Uncountable times, she said that she wants to go home. Now it’s time to see whether she really wants to go or it’s a part of her game plan to stay longer on the show and emerged as a winner.

It is heard that in tonight ‘Bigg Boss’ episode, a historic announcement will be made. Bigg Boss will open the main gate and ask the contestants to move out of the house whoever is feeling so. The gate will be opened for 5 minutes and any contestants are free to go outside with their own will. If we recall, Rimi shed bucket of tears when Salman Khan gave her the ticket to the finale.

On one hand, Rami sheds bucket of tears saying she wants to leave the show, but on the other hand she says that she is making “bank balance by staying in the house.” Rimi Sen’s dual mind will be understood today when Bigg Boss will open the gate for few minutes.

Colors channel tweeted #In a @BiggBoss first, the main door has been opened! Who will decide to leave the #BB9 house? @suyyashrai @manizhe

Whether, Rimi will go home or stay back will be cleared at tonight’s episode. Stay tuned!

Bigg Boss 9: Priya throws urine on Kishwer to earn captaincy and immunity

The captaincy and immunity task of sitting inside the car continued on day 47 in the Bigg Boss house as it entered the ugly second phase. While Kanwljeet, Rishabh and Suyyash had already quit the game the previous day, Kishwer also leaves the task and the contest was now among Prince, Rochelle and Priya.

To make the task more interesting, Bigg Boss announces that housemates outside the car can trouble the contenders of the task so that they are forced to leave the car.

Soon, the housemates start irritating Prince, Rochelle and Priya by throwing kitchen waste, garbage, food and even pesticide spray.

Rishabh targeted Rochelle and started cutting her seat belt and as he pulled the belt, it hurt her and she was in tears. He also attempted to pull her leg and make it touch the ground so that she is eliminated, just like it happened with him. However, Mandana, who is the ‘sanchalak’ asks Rishabh to stop.

Kishwer targets Priya and tries to infuriate her. Kishwer and Priya get into an ugly fight when Priya throws her urine that she stored in a bottle the previous day, on Kishwer. She retaliates by spraying mosquito repellent on her and it was one of the worst kinds of fights the house has witnessed so far.

Eventually Priya wins the task as she kept sitting inside the car till everybody was out. Bigg Boss appoints her the new captain and also gains the benefit of two weeks immunity.

In a twist, Bigg Boss announces that there is a storm coming in the house and gives the contestants an opportunity to walk out of the house and leave the show for good. The main door of the house is kept open for a whole five minutes.

Rimi had been cribbing about leaving the show since day one and she has also not been taking the tasks seriously. But, surprisingly, she refuses to leave, saying it could be some trick of Bigg Boss and that she doesn’t have faith in Bigg Boss.

Juhi Parmar: Television no longer small medium

Popular TV actress Juhi Parmar feels that Bollywood biggies entering the small screen space is an encouraging trend and proves that television is no longer a small medium.

Juhi Parmar
From megastar Amitabh Bachchan, superstars Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan to actors Anil Kapoor and Farhan Akhtar, a bevy of film stars has made its way on the small screen in the recent past.
"It's a great thing that big film actors are doing shows on television. Actors like Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, Anil Kapoor doing television shows... It shows that this medium is not small," Juhi told PTI.
The actress pointed out unlike in India, in the West there is no specific demarcation among actors only doing television or films.
"In the West, there is no demarcation of television and film actors doing TV or films. There, movie actors are doing TV... TV actors are doing films. Here, we need to look at it that way. I think we all are performers and the medium shouldn't matter as only the technique of the shoot might be different," she said.
Juhi, who became popular with her daily soap 'Kumkum', has been part of the television industry for quite sometime.
The 34-year-old actress is happy with the growth the small screen has witnessed over the years.
"The growth has been huge and tremendous. Today the number of channels and shows have also increased. There is variety offered to audience and one can choose to watch what they want according to their taste and preferences," she said.
According to Juhi, though the content is undergoing a change, 'typical' daily soaps will continue to run.
"There is growth in terms of content as we have shows like '24'. Indian audience is emotional. The main primary audience of television shows are women, who are emotional. So, shows have to be on lines which they would like to see, like drama, emotions. So, the (saas-bahu) shows will exist," she said.
Juhi will be seen next in mythological serial "Santoshi Maa", to be aired on &TV from November 30.

'Bigg Boss 9': Keith Sequeira to make a comeback on the show

A few weeks after Bigg Boss Double Trouble kicked off, viewers were taken by shock as contestant Keith Sequeira made an emergency exit owing to his brother’s sudden demise. A wave of uncertainty and unpredictability took over the house as Keith’s unexpected exit led to many unanswered questions about what could have transpired. And now, as his girlfriend Rochelle’s birthday comes along, Keith Sequeira is back…with a bang!

Keith Sequeira A composed, intelligent and strong contender on the show, Keith had risen rather quickly on the popularity charts. His presence on the show was not only a visual bliss for all his ardent fans, but his personality was like a breath of fresh air for loyal viewers of the show. And when a contestant is immensely loved, his exit is bound to create strong waves – both inside and outside the Bigg Boss house. Initially perturbed by Keith’s exit, girlfriend Rochelle eventually took it in her stride while showcasing strength and conviction. In fact, when Kishwer tried to instigate Rochelle by passing comments about Keith during the Highway task, Rochelle held her own and stayed strong.
Speaking about his imminent return to the Bigg Boss house, Keith Sequeira said, “Through what has been the toughest few weeks of my life, I want to thank my family, friends, fans and viewers for all the love, support and messages that I have received! It means so much to my family and I and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts! To see Rochelle handle herself so well in the house and grow so beautifully while I have been away has been a real source of strength for me and I have taken comfort in that each day. Although the healing process will take time and I have a long journey ahead, with your continued strength and support I feel positive about being part of the show again and what makes it special is that I'm able to go back and be there on Rochelle’s birthday!”
Keith’s popularity among viewers is evident through the comments made by the newest wild card entrant and Big Brother Australia finalist Priya Malik. Prior to her entry, Priya spoke highly of Keith and said that she believes that she would get along with Keith if he were to return to the Bigg Boss house. Aman Verma, too, kept his promise to watch out for Rochelle in Keith’s absence until his untimely exit last weekend. As Keith returns to the Bigg Boss house, we cannot help but wonder how the relationships will change this time?!

Karishma Tanna's shoe craze!

Karishma Tanna became a household name after her stint in 'Bigg Boss' and then 'Nach Baliye' propelled her popularity and increased her fan base. The actress is now in Shimla shooting for her new reality show with beau Upen Patel.

Upen Patel and Karishma Tanna It’s a known fact that Karishma loves her make-up and enjoys looking fab for the camera. However, we discovered her love for shoes on the sets of 'Love School'. The actress carried a change of over 30 pairs of shoes for the shoot. She displayed them right at the entrance of her room to make it easier to pick from.

Karishma Tanna's shoe craze!
No matter the terrain or the weather conditions, Karishma walked with her head held high in her high-heeled stilettos all over Shimla. That is indeed some extreme love for shoes.

Pranali Ghoghare: I am done with saas-bahu shows

After her debut in 'Mere Rang Mein Rangne Waali' opposite Samridh Bawa, Pranali Ghoghare says she doesn’t want anything to do with the typical saas bahu shows. Sources claim that the actress has bagged a new and interesting show with Monkey Media Productions. This show apparently would be very different and experimental and will air bi-weekly.

Pranali Ghoghare
When contacted Pranali Ghoghare said, “I have not signed anything as yet. I am in talks for a show, but cannot divulge any details. It is not a saas bahu show and, for now, I have only given a look test. I am not even sure if I’ve got the show.”
The actress claims that after her first stint she wants a break from a typical saas bahu drama. “I am done with saas-bahu shows. I want to do something that is interesting and fun. It has to be something which doesn’t involve too much melodrama.”

Little big impact: Casting kids in television shows a hit formula

Are child prodigies a better bet than older actors to keep TRPs soaring? We ask a few TV writers and producers 

It's easy to fall in love with the innocent child who depicts a gazillion emotions all at once. With their angelic faces and disarming smiles, little actors have been working their charm on the small screen audience rather unwittingly. Television producers and writers, however, are aware of the effect a kid has on viewers — and consequently, on TRPs.

Spandan Chaturvedi in a still from 'Udaan' Records show that when children play the protagonist in a daily soap, there is greater probability of it doing better than other shows. Television soaps like 'Chakravartin Ashoka Samrat' has a tryst with history and started off with a young and vulnerable Ashok, who learns about his lineage later in life.

Siddharth Nigam in 'Chakravartin Ashoka Samrat'
It has 15-year-old Siddharth Nigam jumping through hoops, performing stunts and going through the emotional turmoil of hating and then loving his father. The innocence and desperation to know where he comes from and his family background had audiences glued to the television. Today, it is regarded as one of the top running shows.

Ruhana Khanna plays a child widow in 'Gangaa'
Even 'Gangaa', which traces the journey of a child widow, has enjoyed a great nine-month run and is now set for a leap. But are the makers worried about losing TRPs?

Rajita Sharma, writer, 'Gangaa'
Says the show's writer Rajita Sharma, "'Gangaa', as a series, would not have happened unless we showed her childhood. That became the basis of her character. I wanted to highlight a girl whose spirit does not give in even in the most difficult of times. Yes, this also works because children by their very nature of being innocent can garner a lot of viewership, and they can be bold and questioning in their characters — because they are yet not coloured by the society or conditioned by them."

Bhavesh Balchandani and Harshita Ojha in 'Ek Veer Ki Ardaas... Veera'
'Balika Vadhu' co-writer Shekhar Purendu, who has also penned 'Ek Veer Ki Ardaas Veera', explains there are two kinds of leaps — time leap and generation leap. "When there is nothing to do with a character, you take a generation leap. However, when we take a time leap, the main story is still intact and the story goes on. After two years of 'Balika Vadhu', we took a six-year leap whereby the main character Anandi turned 18. After that, I started struggling with the story. I was in talks with the channel to introduce a change. The story was getting stale and then we decided to bring Anandi's daughter, Nimboli, into the picture."

Gajra Kottary, co-writer of 'Balika Vadhu'
While several channels use child actors as key characters in a show to up their TRPs, Rajita claims that there have also been instances when it doesn't work. "Take for example Uttaran. It was only after the show took a leap that the numbers picked up. When a story gets repetitive, one resorts to a time leap to bring in some freshness," she adds.
However, in case of 'Bharat Ka Veer Putra Maharana Pratap', which garnered great numbers with child protagonist Faisal Khan in the lead, could not maintain the TRPs post a leap. And apparently that was what prompted them to end the show. "It doesn't depend on the audience or TRPs. If we don't have a story to tell and explore all angles with children, it is logical to take a time leap,” said Gajra Kottary, co-writer of 'Balika Vadhu'.

Gracy Goswami aka Nimboli in 'Balika Vadhu'
Shekhar believes that these shows have worked in the past and will continue to do so provided it is backed by a good story and children are showcased as children. But Guroudev Bhalla, producer of 'Udaan', argues that kids don't bring in the TRP; it's the storyline that draws viewers, he asserts, before adding, "In television soaps, characters work and not stories with 'children'. Every story has its own unique requirements and that needs to be followed. 'Udaan' works because of its narrative and characterisation which is done under the guidance of successful cinema writers like Robin Bhatt and Javed Siddique. There is no formula in fiction writing. Stories with kids will always work if told in correct cinematic grammar"

Bollywood take
In pictures: Child artists who stole our hearts

Shilpa Shetty Kundra on 'Comedy Nights With Kapil'

Stand up comics Kapil Sharma and Sunil Grover had Shilpa Shetty Kundra in splits with their gimmicks and witty one-liners on a laugh-out-loud television show

Parineeti Chopra, Ranveer Singh on sets of Big B's show

Parineeti Chopra and Ranveer Singh were spotted on the set of Amitabh Bachchan's new show 'Aaj Ki Raat Hai Zindagi'.

Parineeti Chopra
Ranveer Singh
The actor looked quite quirky in his outfit.

Saanvi Talwar in more trouble post slap gate controversy

Tiffs between lead actors are a common thing in the telly industry. That's why when we heard about the rift between lead actors Karan Kundra and Saanvi Talwar of 'Yeh Kahan Aa Gaye Hum', it was nothing out of the ordinary.


Saanvi Talwar
According to the latest gossip in the media circuit, the two actors were supposed to shoot a kissing sequence, where Karan kisses Saanvi and she retaliates with a slap. However, during the shoot, Kundra began kissing before his cue and the actress responded with a slap, just as the script demanded. Unfortunately, Saanvi hit Karan a little too harder than expected. The actor lost his cool and post their sequence approached Saanvi, slapped her and then verbally abused her.
While all this happened in front of the whole cast and crew of the show, no one came to her rescue or her defense. The actress reported the incident to the production house, but everyone paid no heed to her complaints. We spoke to a source close to the show to find out more details on the slap gate controversy. "Yes, it is true that the Saanvi slapped Karan according to the script, but no one expected Karan to retaliate by slapping her. We were all shocked, but that's not all. No one has taken any action against it, in stead now they are maligning her name by saying that she had a soft corner for Karan. Frankly, Saanvi has been ordered not to talk to the media about the incident or give her comments on it."
Saanvi Talwar has decided to continue working on the show, because she has no choice as per her contract.

Also see...

In pictures: TV celebs who courted controversy

Aishwarya Sakhuja goes on a shopping spree in Argentina

'Khatron Ke Khiladi – Kabhi Keeda Kabhi Peeda' contestant Aishwarya Sakhuja, who usually doesn't enjoy shopping, went on a shopping spree the day they got an off from shooting in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Aishwarya Sakhuja
Talking about her shopping expedition in Argentina, Aishwarya said, "We finally got a day off and we utilized it to the fullest. I picked up this one pint of beer which is from southernmost tip of the world. There were also a lot of artists there and so I ended picking up pillow covers and funky bags which have the authentic Argentinian paintings on it. I bought things which you won’t easily find in a shopping mall. Other than the regular shoot I am also enjoying being a tourist."

Parth Samthaan to make Bollywood debut opposite Sanah Kapur

Television actor Parth Samthaan, of "Kaisi Yeh Yaariyan" fame, is all set to make his big screen debut opposite Shahid Kapoor's sister Sanah.

Parth Samthaan and Sanah Kapur
The actor will team up with Sanah, who made her debut in "Shaandaar", in a yet-to-be-titled romantic comedy.
"It is true. I don't want to talk about it much because we are trying to keep it a little low key for now. The film is about to start and we are figuring out a few details.It is a romantic comedy backed by lot of strong characters," Parth told PTI.
The film will be directed by Karan Kashyap, who has assisted filmmaker Mani Ratnam, and worked on films like "Chak De India!", "Don" and "Saathiyaa".
It also stars Paresh Rawal and Sanah's father Pankaj Kapur.
"We have Paresh Rawal, Pankaj Kapur on board. I am nervous to share screen space with them. I will soon start my workshop and will try matching up to these great actors," Parth said.
The actor is best known for playing Manik Malhotra in the popular youth show "Kaisi Yeh Yaariyan". Parth, however, says the film will be mature and not in the "youthful" zone.
"It is not a 'youth' film. My show is youthful, but the film will be a proper mature, family drama with well written characters. It is in that genre," he said.
He is excited to work with the "Shaandaar" actress.
"I am very happy. Sanah is very exciting. We will soon start working on our roles. Next month we will have our sitting where we will discuss the film, narration and everything," the actor said.
The shooting for the movie will begin in February 2016 and it will hit the theatres sometime later next year.

'Bigg Boss 9' Day 47: Priya Malik throws 'pee' on Kishwer Merchantt

Things are about to get spiced up in the 'Bigg Boss 9' house as the new wild card entry, Priya Malik will throw pee on Kishwer Merchantt.
Kishwer Merchantt fights with Priya Malik
In the previous episode, during the captaincy and immunity task, Priya who remained seated in the car for long hours, was seen peeing inside the bottle as other contestants Suyyash, Prince, Kishwer and Rochelle, who was also sitting inside the car with her, got embarrassed and turned away their faces.
Without showing concern for others, Priya felt relief as she peed inside her pants.
In Friday's episode, Priya will be seen throwing pee on fellow contestant Kishwer Merchantt as the fight between them will take an ugly turn.

Mona Singh injured on the sets of 'Pyar Ko Ho Jaane Do'

Mona Singh, who essays the role of Preet in the show 'Pyar Ko Ho Jaane Do', injured herself while shooting for an upcoming sequence.
Mona Singh
"Hot wax got splashed on Mona's face while she was blowing the candles which were placed in the room. She was shooting for a romantic sequence where the room was decorated with the candles. A doctor was called immediately on the set as she suffered with burn patches on her face and arms."
Confirming the incident, Mona said, "Yes it did happen. I was so involved in the scene that I got a little burnt, but I got medication immediately and I am fine now. There are a few burn patches on my skin but they are not that bad."

Harrison Ford: J.J. Abrams an enormously skilled filmmaker

Los Angeles: Actor Harrison Ford has heaped praise on his 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' director J.J. Abrams.


Harrison Ford
"He's very thoughtful and very wise about human nature and the development of character and relationships. He brings a real sincerity and emotional understanding to relationships, which is something I was very pleased to see," Ford, who reprised his role as Han Solo in the film, said about Abrams in a statement.
"He's an enormously skilled filmmaker and very efficient director and producer. So it has been a real pleasure to work with him and all of the members of his team as this film has gone on," he added.
The film also stars Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Oscar Isaac, Lupita Nyong'o, Andy Serkis, Domhnall Gleeson, Anthony Daniels and Max Von Sydow.
It has been produced by Kathleen Kennedy and Bryan Burk, besides Abrams, with Jason McGatlin as its executive producer.
The movie's script is written by Abrams, Lawrence Kasdan and Michael Arndt.
The seventh instalment of the popular "Star Wars" movie series, is slated for a release in India this Christmas, on December 25.

Paul Walker's father sues Porsche for wrongful death

Los Angeles: Almost two years after Paul Walker's death in a car crash in Santa Clarita, California, the late actor's father has sued automobile company Porsche for wrongful death and negligence.


Paul Walker. Pic/Santa Banta
In a lawsuit filed on Wednesday and obtained by ew.com, Paul William Walker III says that the Porsche Carrera GT that the actor was riding in lacked safety features that could have saved his life, and that Porsche knew the model had a history of instability and control issues.
He has sought unspecified damages.
Walker was sitting in the passenger seat when his friend Roger Rodas lost control of the car and crashed into a tree, causing the car to burst into flames. Both Walker, 40, and Rodas, 38, died in the crash.

Chris Hemsworth loves surfing

Los Angeles: Actor Chris Hemsworth says that he loves surfing despite his fear of getting attacked by sharks.


Chris Hemsworth. Pic/Santa Banta
He said: "My beach where we lived, directly out the front, someone got bit six to eight months ago. My love and obsession for surfing some days outweighs that kind of fear."
However, Hemsworth also said his attitude isn't based on common sense.
"It's probably naivety or stupidity on my part," he told channel The Project, reports femalefirst.co.uk.

Dev Patel: Learning the art of putting my foot down

Dev Patel, the young boy from 'Slumdog Millionaire', is all grown up as he plays the mathematics genius 'S Ramanujan in The Man Who Knew Infinity'. Excerpts from a chat with the affable, goofy actor

Q. Playing Ramanujan must be quite a challenge, considering the age in which he existed and his background, which is completely different from yours.A. I spent about a month with my coach Raghuveer Joshi working on the accent and the pitch. We couldn't refer to anything as there is no found footage of the great man, so there was no way I could mimic his voice. What I tried imitating is the resilience that he had, trying to capture the essence of his personality. I never knew this man existed, which is a travesty. When the script landed in my lap, I was blown away. The script has been floating around for 10 years and I am lucky to have finally gotten the role. It is a big challenge because people are quick to judge a book by its cover. It isn't a documentary; it's a movie and we are dramatising certain aspects.

Dev Patel. Pic/Getty Images

Q. It is surprising that you are not on social media.
A. I am a technophobe. I am more of a face-to-face person. I don't feel the need to document all that I do. I value my privacy very much because of the kind of work I do. As long as I can keep to myself, it is better for my family and for everyone.

Q. It is admirable in a way that you are not desperate to be part of the crowd.
A. (Laughs) The coolest thing is to be uncool.

Q. After Slumdog Millionaire, your life changed drastically. But after that, some of your films didn't do well. Also, you maintained that you feel like an outsider.
A. It's really interesting. Sometimes, box office success doesn't mean critical success. After Slumdog, I kind of fell into a project that the critics didn't like. Even though the films made a lot of money, I had no say in the matter. I don't think success defines a human being, failures do. It is very humbling and also quite freeing in a way. Slumdog came with the baggage and I never felt I was worthy of the attention I got. In any other profession you get the time to practice. But, for us, it was all so soon. I would feel so unworthy when I walked those red carpets.

Dev Patel. Pic/Getty Images

Q. That quick fame could have gone into your head; you didn't let that happen.
A. I don't know if it is because I am a grounded person or it is my natural propensity or low self-esteem.

Q. Or, maybe, because of the kind of upbringing you've had?
A. Yes. My parents are rockstars. They are such simple people. My father is an accountant. You stay normal when you live with your parents. I have never grown up around luxury and I am aware of how lucky I am. Luxury is a wonderful thing but too much of it is dangerous, especially for an actor. For an actor, his profession is to project humanity and if we lose touch with reality and our feet don't touch the ground, how can we play roles to move the masses? It is a double edged sword. With success comes fame and with fame comes bigger need for privacy. You have got to stay where you came from. I am a small fry and I admire people like Shah Rukh Khan who manage to not let themselves get carried away. Fortunately, I have led a simple life. I have simple yet talented young men as friends. My best friend Simon Raghu inspires me with the clarity with which he leads his life. What's that word in Hindi? Tehrav. I want to achieve that. I know my hyper-activeness and restlessness wouldn't go. This ants-in-pants attitude helps me, but I would also want to achieve that tehrav at some point.

Q. Is it because of some hard lessons you have learnt along the way?
A. Yes. My natural energy is to be goofy and laugh at things. But then people take you for granted if you are a good guy. They don't take you seriously if you know how to have a good laugh and are down to earth. I am slowly learning the art of putting my foot down. I now know how to communicate to people that I am actually an artiste and take my work seriously.

Q. Is your next film, 'Lion'? The one where you play Nicole Kidman's son?
A. Yes, and that's been a nourishing experience for me. I had to go to the gym and get bigger and get the Australian accent. That's really tough.

Q. Also, the big moment when you were part of 'The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel'.
A. That was the time when I would look around, see all these huge stars and keep thinking I am so lucky. We were in Rajasthan and I was feeling proud of my Indian heritage, because they were enjoying it.

Q. Why don't you do some Indian films then?
A. If I get offers, I will.

Q. After Freida Pinto, have you moved on? Are you seeing anybody?
A. No, no. I am just busy working.

In pictures: Indian-origin artistes in Hollywood

Remembering the Dragon: A tribute to martial arts legend Bruce Lee

If Bruce Lee were alive, he would have been 75 today. Mumbai's martial arts students and teachers hail the king and say his Lee-gacy lives on in the kiai (martial arts war cry) that resonates in training halls across the world

If the Little Dragon, as he was known, who stripped the martial arts of its shroud of secrecy and intrigue and whose doctor according to Lee lore (the folklore that surrounds Bruce Lee) told him that he had the body of an 18-year-old at 32, were alive today, he would be blowing out 75 candles on his birthday cake, one suspects with the same ease he blew away his opponents in the martial arts world.

Faction

There is plenty of Lee lore so much in fact, that sometimes, myth coalesces with reality making his life and his feats seem the stuff of faction (a mix of fact and fiction) but, like Sensei (a Sensei is a teacher in Japanese) Hosi Batlivala, karate teacher says, "So good was Bruce Lee that he sounds supernatural. But, it was all true, he was the real thing."


Bruce Lee readies to deliver his devastating stop side kick complete with fearsome kiai

Batlivala claims that it was Bruce Lee's movie, Enter the Dragon that, "ignited young minds and bodies. Suddenly, everybody wanted to become a Bruce Lee here, the movie was a catalyst for the martial arts boom in India."

Batlivala adds, "The Bruce Lee one sees in movies, some of those techniques and movements may be trick photography but certainly, even on celluloid one got the impression that this man was deadly. Lethal, quick and especially strong on basics he was technically perfect."

Honey trap

Bruce Lee devised a fighting style called Jeet Kune Do. Literally translated, it means the way of the intercepting fist. "Bruce Lee's way of fighting has not seen the same popularity as karate or even judo perhaps because youngsters today want certificates, grades, ranks and belts (belts of different colours denote the rank in martial arts) and Bruce Lee never believed in any of that," explains Batlivala.

Batlivala who travels to Japan sporadically, where karate found a homeland, says that international martial artistes still talk about the awesome Bruce Lee in traditional karate schools, "on the Japanese island of Okinawa," signs off Batlivala, who believes that Bruce may have been killed by an actress who acted as a honey trap poisoning him, because it was believed he had so many enemies.

Lightning

Poison may have stilled the body that had earned Bruce Lee the epithet of the fittest man in the world but his spirit lives on from Okinawa in Japan to Andheri in Mumbai. Harish Kanchan, martial artiste says, "My generation was hugely influenced by Lee. When we were growing up and learning karate, Lee was at his peak," remembers Kanchan who is now a businessman.

The Andheri resident recounts, "I was particularly impressed with the way small-statured Lee could ward off opponents much bigger than him because of his phenomenal speed. When watching his movies, observe his roundhouse (to the side of the face) kick - it was a bolt of lightning. Then of course, was the shuffling side kick, both signature Bruce Lee moves, both to die for."

Sculpture

Martial arts teacher, Sensei Yagness Shetty and his students are giving Bruce Lee a unique 70-gun salute. Shetty and his young students will pay homage to Lee by making, "a 70-foot wood sculpture of Bruce Lee, which is going to be painted by students," says Shetty. The sculpture is to be put in the S M Shetty School hall at Hiranandani Powai. 

For Sensei Sandeep Salvi, international karate referee, "Lee influenced me as a practicing karateka I was inspired to continue training despite the toughness and rigours of karate training when I started (much before the Bruce Lee craze, of course). I used to always say if he can overcome such odds and adversity, physical and mental, in his life why can't I? Now, I tell my students the same, never give up.

I tell them, "You have really lost when you stop trying to succeed. All other setbacks are lessons in life. If you learn from them you have not lost." Salvi says, "Bruce Lee's philosophy, 'to have no limits as limits, to have no style as style'. was his strength." Aficionados will know that the seemingly esoteric statement means that Bruce Lee stressed that one should take what works in a street fight, borrow from all fighting forms and go for strikes that are practical not flashy.
Genius
Sensei Pervez B Mistry calls Bruce Lee a, "natural genius" and adds, "I am fascinated by Bruce Lee and a huge fan." He was before his time in some ways, says Mistry who adds that, "Lee was a thinker, he was a very deep person.

I still refer to his books and I remember having met Linda Lee (Bruce Lee's widow) with Ed Parker (martial artiste) in the US, in 2005." For Sensei Rajesh Thakkar, "There was an explosion of numbers in karate class after Enter the Dragon released in India. I remember people coming in from Nasik, Surat to train in karate in the city."

Death
As fast as he shot to fame, Lee,was gone. It was Exit the Dragon in 1973, at 32 and the reason of his death continues to be debated to this day.

In one of those numerous books on Lee, a closing paragraph says: 'In the red light district of Wanchai, a Hong Kong suburb, is a gigantic poster of Lee and written in Chinese characters is the simple message: 'The Spirit of Lee Lives On...' Wanchai's moving message rings true even today, from a poster in Hong Kong to a sculpture at the Hiranandani Gardens, Powai, one can feel Lee's soul in the sweat and blood that drops to the floor in thousands of martial arts training halls across the world.

A life, a death
Bruce Lee was born on November 27, 1940 in San Francisco, California, USA. He died on July 20, 1973 in Hong Kong.
Birth Name: Lee Jun Fan
Height: 5' 7 " (1.71 m)
Family
Bruce Lee married Linda Lee in the 1960s. He had two children - son, Brandon Lee and daughter, Shannon Lee. Brandon was killed in a freak accident on the sets of The Crow (1994). Linda Lee and Shannon Lee live in the USA.
Conspiracy theories
A number of theories that arose after his death continue to swirl, even though the medical reason given was cerebral edema.

Some of these theories are: Bruce Lee was killed by poisoning by old masters and monks who were unhappy at what he did to the martial arts.

He died due to overtraining, an exhausted body could not cope any longer.
His enemies poisoned him.
He died of too much sex.

'Creed' - Movie Review

'Creed'
A; Drama, Sport
Director: Ryan Coogler
Cast: Michael B. Jordan, Sylvester Stallone, Tessa Thompson, Phylicia Rashad, Tony Bellew
Rating: 
Warner Bros sure know how to encash on an age-old (40 years) successful studio property. The film that transported the monosyllabic, expressionless Sylvester Stallone to big-ticket super stardom and continued to rake in the millions in all it's sequel editions since, becomes the basis for this new-gen spin-off helmed by a fresh new director. Ryan Coogler (of 'Fruitvale Station' fame) sets up story and direction credits with this formulaic revisit of the 'Rocky Balboa' story- albeit with a new and relatively fresh young player to help stir up the passions.
Watch the trailer of 'Creed'
Adonis Creed a.k.a Donnie (Michael B. Jordan), the illegitimate son of former heavyweight champion Apollo Creed is a troubled young orphaned kid who goes through the state reform process before he gets picked-up by Apollo's widow for a rehab of homely love and affection. Her only condition being that he stay away from the sport that killed his father (in an eponymous title fight with Ivan Drago). But the kid, now an adult with a well-paying job, can't resist the lure of the boxing ring. Adonis resigns from his job and moves to Philadelphia in search of his late fathers' nemesis-turned-best friend, Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone), in the hopes of enlisting him as his trainer. Balboa, now running a successful Italian restaurant, is not so keen but the young Creed's dedication and fire persuades him to give it a shot. And they both work up some sweat towards a one-off big-ticket title shot, while banking on the famous name to pull off the further spin-offs. It's quite obvious this film is meant to re-energise the sub-genre while instilling fresh new heritage infused blood into the franchise.
Despite the obviousness and the formulaic template that it follows, there's some fresh vitality and energy springing forth here. And thankfully, it doesn't have to get an ageing Stallone into the ring( for which we are very grateful) to do the needful. Stallone hogs the sidelines while Michael B Jordan does all the hard work. As an abandoned son out to claim his legacy, he manages to keep to the form and tenor of what's expected. A large part of the runtime is spent on getting Rocky and Donnie to connect. And with monosyllabic responses from both sides it's quite a tough ask I say. Yet the Director manages to invest enough time and effort to make that part of it credible enough. Unfortunately that doesn't leave enough room for any great fight-drama in the boxing ring. For an upstart, riding on an inherited name, to get a shot at a World heavyweight title seems a little far-fetched. And it doesn't seem reason enough even when the current heavyweight title holder stands discredited and a month away from suspension. It's a rocky formula at best and there aren't enough feints to put us off the scent. The sentimental buttons are pushed in orchestrated fashion and the revisits to former glory don't amount to any great attachment.
Romance, melodrama and fantasy-fulfillment add milestones to the manipulative plotting. A first-off fight is all too conveniently arranged to establish the upstart's potential. And then it's a fast-track to that high-stakes title fight with Conlon (Tony Bellew) - arranged for Adonis far earlier in his career than would ever be the case in real life.
It's all about positioning and Coogler sets it up quite smartly. The first bout in the East Coast is captured with fluency through an agilely held steadicam. And it comes half way through the runtime- timed perfectly to pep you up after the yawn-inducing bonding between Balboa and Donnie and stuttering romantic scenes between Donnie and Bianca (Tessa Thompson). Bianca gets our empathy right away because she has a progressive hearing defect while Donnie raises his own value by pursuing her as a love interest. The problem here is not the relationships but the fights. Though well staged it does not get you entirely involved. There's a degree of disbelief that just doesn't get overcome here. Jordan doesn't appear to have the muscle mass to fix the Big Irishman as assayed by Bellew and the staging is such that he scores big hits much before you can believe in his punches. Despite all these shortcomings, this film is a fairly decent representation of a new-gen spin-off of the age-old studio hit formula.

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 2- Movie Review

'The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 2'
U/A; Sci-fi/Action
Director: Francis Lawrence
Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Julianne Moore, Philip Seymour Hoffman
Rating: 

'The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 2' poster. Pic/Santa Banta
'Mockingjay Part 1' was not much of a primer for this second part. It was so enmeshed in procedure and set-up that the pay-off was way too miniscule to be rousing. But part 2 manages to get the formula right. There's far more involvement, enough empathy and greater revelry in this final segment than there was in the first part. But it's also riddled with a great deal of sameness.
It's also heartening that this young adult motion picture property has finally achieved culmination. It's been an exhaustive and oftentimes appealing journey of discovery but the stretching thin of the third installment (into two parts) took away most of the excitement from the enterprise. It may have made commercial sense but it just did not give the audience enough buck value to make it gainful. The second part of the bifurcated movie adaptation of Suzanne Collins final book is sleeker, bleaker and de rigueur in its expansiveness.
Katniss (Lawrence), after recovering from her former lover Peeta's attempt to kill her, decides to put an end to Snow's relentless puppetry by leading a revolution against him. And she has her regular supporters cheerleading and protecting her along the way. This second part is less stretched and is far more concerted and assured in its outcomes. All the loose ends are tied up neatly. The love triangle between Katniss, Peeta and Gale is rendered irrelevant quite conveniently and the evil is also vanquished just as easily. But of course she has to go through the usual preordained gamey ordeal (different levels including tunnels, slimy alien-like creatures and land-mine like explosions all across her pathway) before she can achieve her self-professed goal of assassinating her tormentor.
While the special effects are rendered with aplomb and the action remains credible, there's not much newness to endear here. The performances are the major connect for an audience tired out by repetitiveness. Despite truncated roles, the A list actors make it all look good. The darkness of war is well represented but the message of its futility doesn't carry through. By the end of it all (including the neat epilogue) you are just relieved that the exhausting series has finally ended. 'Catching Fire' did take it to the pinnacle just as 'Mockingjay Part 1' toppled it back to the ground level. Part 2 manages to save the blushes. It doesn't catch fire but does a fair impersonation of it.

Johnny Depp talks about the 'darkest period' in his life

Los Angeles: Johnny Depp says the "darkest period of my life" was when his daughter Lily-Rose spent time at London's Great Ormond Street with kidney failure.

Johnny Depp. Pic/Santa Banta
During an appearance on the 'Graham Norton Show', the 52-year-old revealed his daughter - who he shares with his long-term ex-partner Vanessa Paradis - was admitted to the children's hospital for nine days in 2007, reports mirror.co.uk.
The now 16-year-old was treated for kidney failure caused by E.coli poisoning while Depp was filming at Pinewood Studios.
After the ordeal, he explained that he often returns to the hospital to cheer up patients dressed as his "Pirates of the Caribbean" character Captain Jack Sparrow.
The actor said: "For me it's a gift. They gave me the gift."
"When my daughter was ill in Great Ormond Street, it was the darkest period of my life. I'd always done these visits but after that experience the visits became more and more important. The kids are so courageous but to be able to bring a smile or a giggle to the parents means everything in the world to me."

'Men in Black 4' will feature female agent

Los Angeles: 'Men in Black 4' will have a "prominent Woman in Black", says producer.
According to BBC, producer Laurie MacDonald promises that "there will be a prominent Woman in Black in the fourth (film)", which she's developing with husband Walter Parkes, reports variety.com.
While 1997's 'Men in Black' seemingly inducted Linda Fiorentino’s character into the agency at the end of the film, she was absent from the two sequels.
'Men in Black II' featured Lara Flynn Boyle as the villainous Serleena, but the franchise has yet to have a female agent take a lead role.
Original franchise star Will Smith is currently not attached to the project, but Parkes said the actor could be lured back, telling the BBC: "Never count Will out."
The original movies centred on Smith's Agent J and his alien-hunting partner K (Tommy Lee Jones) as they tracked down aliens on the Earth and tried to keep their existence hidden from civilians.
"We tried to tell a story about those two characters and that relationship," Parkes said. "It sounds silly because it’s a fun, science fiction comedy but when you work on these things you sort of try to find some thematic basis underneath it."

Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin spend Thanksgiving together

New York: Former star couple Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin spent the Thanksgiving holiday together with their two children Apple, 11, and Moses, 9.
The actress shared an image of the family on Instagram, reports people.com.
"Happy Thanksgiving from us to you," she captioned the group portrait, which is the first time Paltrow, 43, and the Coldplay frontman have shared a photograph of themselves together following the announcement of their split in March 2014.
Just a couple of days before, the actress and Martin, 38, were spotted at West Village hotspot The Lion with their children and her mother Blythe Danner, as well as brother Jake.
The family seemed "super happy and chummy" and "looked like a happy, regular family having a big pre-Thanksgiving dinner", an onlooker said of the outing.

Emraan Hashmi to kiss on screen in 'Azhar'

'Azhar', the upcoming biopic on former Indian cricketer Mohammed Azharuddin, will have kissing and romantic scenes, actor Emraan Hashmi has said.
'Azhar', being directed by Tony D'Souza, is based on the career and personal life of Azharuddin who was allegedly involved in a match-fixing scandal in 2000.
"In biopics, people kiss and I am sure Azhar also had kissed. In fact, biopics lend themselves more into that.

Kissing scenes are there in the movie. We will compensate (for not having kissing scenes in his new music video)...(sic)," Emraan told reporters here at the launch of his single 'Main Rahoon Ya Na Rahoon'.
Emraan, 36, is sporting a clean-shaven look for the film.
"I clean shaved after 15 years. Besides, my cricketing skills are improved now. Azhar bhai has been coaching me," the actor said.
Azharuddin captained the Indian cricket team for much of the 1990s.
The former sportsman, whose personal life has always been under media glare, was first married Naureen with two sons before divorcing her after nine years.
He then wed model-actor Sangeeta Bijlani in 1996. The couple separated in 2010.
Azhar's son Ayazuddin, aged 19, died in a road accident in 2011.

Emraan Hashmi mum on Sanjay Leela Bhansali film

Actor Emraan Hashmi has chosen to stay mum on a film offered by Sanjay Leela Bhansali.

Emraan Hashmi and Sanjay Leela Bhansali
"I am working on 'Azhar' then I have 'Raaz 4'. I am offered lot of films. I only talk about films that I do. But work is in progress," Emraan said in a media interaction here.
There are reports that Emraan may star in Bhansali's next production. The movie will be directed by Krish, who previously helmed 'Gabbar Is Back'.
Reportedly the 35-year-old actor has liked the script of the film.
'Azhar' is a biopic on former Indian skipper Mohammed Azharuddin.

Shah Rukh-Kajol's aura still affects Farah Khan

She may have worked with the iconic on-screen pair of Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol numerous times, but choreographer-director Farah Khan, like any other fan, still gets mesmerised by the magic they create infront of the camera.

Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol and Farah Khan
"Shah Rukh's movie ('Dilwale')(is) my movie. I shot 'Gerua' song with SRK and Kajol in Iceland. I have seen their magic. When a person like me gets affected by their aura then a normal person too would get affected by it," Farah told reporters yesterday on sidelines of 'Viaan Mobiles' launch.
The 'Happy New Year' helmer, who was at the event with Shilpa said, the actress has grown even more beautiful with age.
"I should stay away from Shilpa (Shetty) as everyone would look bad in front of her. She is like this (slim) since I know her...since 'Baazigar' (1993). People usually deteriorate with age but she is becoming beautiful," she said.
Directed by Rohit Shetty and also starring Varun Dhawan, Kriti Sanon "Dilwale" will hit the theatres on December 18.

Sonam Kapoor starrer Neerja Bhanot biopic to release on February 19

'Neerja', a biopic on the life of 23-year-old Neerja Bhanot who gave up her life trying to save the lives of hijacked passengers on PanAm flight in Karachi in 1986, is set to release on February 19, next year.

Sonam Kapoor
Actress Sonam Kapoor plays the lead role of Neerja in the movie by Fox Star Studios and Bling Unplugged.
Neerja posthumously became the youngest recipient of India's highest civilian award for bravery, The Ashok Chakra while Pakistan also bestowed the prestigious Tamgha-e-Insaaniyat Award to her for showing incredible human kindness during the hijack.
"Neerja is one of the unsung heroes of India whose story should be an inspiration for everyone... we will be releasing 'Neerja' on Feb 19 for the people the world over to know andcelebrate the story of a 23-year-old girl who found courage and self-sacrifice in an extraordinary moment in her life," said Vijay Singh, CEO, Fox Star Studios.
Atul Kasbekar, producer, Bling Unplugged said, Neerja's story is one that just "had to be told".
The movie has been directed by the celebrated ad film director Ram Madhvani.
Actress Shabana Azmi plays the role of Neerja's mother in the movie.

Prakash Jha: There should be no censor

Filmmaker Prakash Jha, who is known for his socio-political films, is in favour of scrapping the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) as he questions “why should someone else have control over our morality and liking”.

Prakash Jha
Jha asserted that self-censorship should be the next step.
“I'm against censor. There should be no censor. People who want to see will see it anyway. There should be self-censorship. Why should someone else have control over our morality, understanding and liking,” Jha told IANS on the sidelines of Film Bazaar here.
The Indian censor board has often attracted flak from members of the film fraternity and society for its cuts and diktats. A recent example is the reduction in time of a kissing scene in Hollywood film “Spectre”.
The maker, known for “Gangaajal”, “Apaharan”, and “Raajneeti”, went on to add that vulgarity in cinema dies a natural death due to audience’s taste.
“There was a time when suddenly there were many vulgar, double meaning songs being made and they started becoming a hit. But they died a very quick and natural death because people stopped listening to it. There is inherent goodness (in people) for clean entertainment,” he said, adding that “So why do we have to give it in someone else's hands”.

Ridhima Sud: Was overwhelmed when Priyanka praised me in 'Kajarya'

Actress Ridhima Sud says she could not believe when her 'Dil Dhadakne Do' co-star Priyanka Chopra complimented her for the upcoming docu-drama 'Kajarya'.

Ridhima Sud
Ridhima, who made her debut in the Zoya Akhtar-directed multi-starrer and will be seen as a journalist in Madhureeta Anand's drama about female foeticide.
"Priyanka (Chopra) was the first one to message me after watching 'Kajarya'. She said I had done well in the movie and she was extremely proud of me. I couldn't believe I was getting compliments for my work from her... "As an actor you are very hard on yourself. But I was overwhelmed when the feeling sunk in," Ridhima told PTI.
"Even Farhan (Akhtar) said 'well done'. Aamir Khan called me and said 'people are loving the film, they are loving you'. It was an amazing feeling for me because these people are not only stars, not only talented but amazing human beings," she added.
'Kajarya' chronicles the story of two women from different backgrounds- one who lives in a village and has the job of killing the baby (played by Meena Hooda), while the other is an opportunistic journalist from New Delhi.
For Ridhima, there were times her role took a toll on her, draining her "emotionally" and pushing her to realise things beyond the realms of acting.
"It was emotionally draining... While performing a breakdown scene, I got sucked into it so badly I didn't leave my bed for three days after the shoot. I was training with a journalist in 2013 and one day, during the Nirbhaya rape case trail, I was in a room with the three accused men.
"That experience was very moving, it pushed me to realise that it is not always about acting, it is also about being a part of something bigger... to contribute towards such issues."
'Kajarya' was shot before "Dil Dhadakne Do" and the actress says she feels blessed to do be part of two diverse projects within a year.
"It is overwhelming really, too much to take in, but in a very good way."
'Kajarya' is scheduled to release on December 4.

After 'Bajrangi Bhaijaan', Salman's 'Prem Ratan Dhan Payo' strikes gold

Salman Khan's good boy roles seem to be finding patronage among Hindi movie audiences. After 'Bajrangi Bhaijaan', the superstar's 'Prem Ratan Dhan Payo' (PRDP) has managed to zoom past the Rs 200 crore mark in India, thereby becoming only the second Bollywood film this year to cross the figure.

'Prem Ratan Dhan Payo'
The Hindi version of PRDP brings back the superstar to a family drama film as Prem, and marks Salman's reunion with his 'Maine Pyar Kiya' and 'Hum Saath Saath Hain' director Sooraj Barjatya after 16 years.
PRDP has collected Rs 201.52 crore in 14 days since its release, read a statement from the makers.
The film, with a royal tale, also stars Sonam Kapoor, Anupam Kher, Swara Bhaskar, Armaan Kohli and Neil Nitin Mukesh. Salman has a double role -- as an arrogant prince, and another as a jovial peace-making person.
Made on a budget of Rs 60 crore with Rs 20 crore spent on publicity and advertising - the film released on November 12.
Trade analyst Komal Nahta tweeted: "PRDP becomes the second film to cross 200 crore in 2015. Total all-India net for 14 days (it opened on a Thursday): Rs 201.52 crore!"
Presented by Fox Star Studios, the family entertainer is produced by Rajshri Productions. It also released in Tamil and Telugu.
Meanwhile, 'Bajrangi Bhaijaan' managed to cross Rs.300 crore in the country. It was a film whose story about a Hindu man taking a mute Pakistani girl back to her country, tugged at the hearts of the audiences.
It's interesting how while in 'Bajrangi Bhaijaan', Salman's character Pawan was shown as a devotee of lord Hanuman, in PRDP, one of his characters worships lord Ram.

Court dismisses suit seeking ban on 'Bajirao Mastani'

Mumbai: A Pune court today dismissed a suit seeking a ban on Sanjay Leela Bhansali's upcoming film "Bajirao Mastani" for allegedly distorting history relating to late king Shrimant Bajirao Peshwe and his family members.

The court opined that the plaintiff could approach the Central Board of Film Certification, commonly known as Censor Board, with his grievances about the release of the film.

"The film cannot be released without the authority of the Censor Board. The plaintiff can approach the concerned authority if he has any grievances about the release of the picture. Hence, the (civil) suit is not maintainable under section 91 of CrPc. The plea is rejected," said S S Gulhane, Chief Judge, Senior Division, Pune, in his order.

Under section 91 of C.Pc, a suit is maintainable if it is a case of nuisance or other wrongful act likely to affect public life. Production of a film cannot be termed as public nuisance. The act merely of affecting sentiments of a particular class do not amount to public nuisance. Hence, the suit is dismissed," the judge noted.

The suit, filed by Hemant Patil, president of NGO Bharat Against Corruption, alleged that historical facts had been wrongly portrayed in the film while showing late king Bajirao Peshwe and his wives Kashibai and Mastani.

The "Pinga" song in the film shows leading heroines Priyanka Chopra and Deepika Padukone dancing together, which, the plaintiff said "distorts" history.

'Pinga' dance is an integral part of Marathi culture and has been portrayed as an 'item song' in the film, advocate Wajid Khan argued on behalf of the plaintiff.

Earlier, Prasadrao Peshwe, the descendant of Bajirao Peshwa I, had also alleged that historical facts have been "altered" while portraying the late king and his wives in the film.

In a letter written to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Prasadrao demanded that the government look into the matter, review the soon-to-be-released film, investigate the matter and take a decision accordingly.

The film is set for release on December 18.

Sandhya Mridul and Sarah Jane Dias

The all-woman star cast of an upcoming film 'Angry Indian Goddesses' has been on a promotional spree.

Sandhya Mridul

Sarah Jane Dias

Anushka Manchanda
Sandhya Mridul, Sarah Jane Dias and the others were spotted at a local pub talking about the festival success of their film.