Rocket Singh' going great guns in US

Bollywood's latest offering "Rocket Singh - Salesman Of The Year" is going great guns in the US with its review currently the number one most read movie story on the New York Times site.

The Times review, beating stories on the Golden Globe nominations and reviews of all US films, calls "Rocket Singh: Salesman of the Year," with Ranbir Kapoor "a smart, focused Bollywood movie".

Shimit Amin, "who directed the delightful 'Chak De! India', about a girls' hockey team, dispenses with Bollywood's normal tangle of subplots and mashup of genres", it says. "There's music, but no big production numbers. Even romance is back-burnered. Instead, Mr. Amin sticks to the story at hand."

"Kapoor, a heartthrob who has quickly become a star playing cads, turns in a skilfully understated performance," says the review. "His Harpreet is an old-school hero: solid, righteous, compassionate. You can't help cheering for him."

In an equally flattering review, Film Journal International says: "David-and-Goliath workplace drama from India goes unexpected places, and hits satisfying chords."

The posters for the Bollywood import "promise a workplace satire or a light-hearted employee caper" it says. "Instead we get a sharply observed drama of an honest man trying to survive in the usual business world."

"In the exploding modern India, it's a very American story: How do you succeed in business without really trying to compromise your ethics?"

"Not all Bollywood movies are big, colourful musicals, of course, and this one offers only a couple of plot montages set against songs, it says, "But with uniformly excellent performances-particularly by (Naveen) Kaushik and (Shantanoo) Bhagyaraj as the conflicted and not-so-conflicted antagonists, respectively."

In addition, there is "a no-nonsense pace and storytelling sense by director Shimit Amin, and a truly universal and credible office mise-en-scene, 'Rocket Singh' is instantly accessible to any stateside audience," the Journal adds.

Harpreet Singh, the protagonist, "may be a prisoner of the system, but he can proudly say, 'I am not a number. I am a free market'." it says.

'Veer' songs reflect 18th century colonial culture: Sajid

Music director Sajid says he and his brother Wajid have tried to reflect 18th century colonial culture through their music in Salman Khan starrer period drama "Veer".

"The film focuses on British culture in India and how they used to mix with each other then. So while making the music, we combined the music of two cultures to give the actual feel of that time," Sajid told IANS at the music launch of "Veer" here Monday.

Before starting work, Sajid-Wajid did research on the instruments extensively used during that time.

Asked if they utilised original musical instruments used during that period, he said: "I made use of keyboards. When things are available, better make use of that because finally it's the sound that matters."

"Veer" is about bravery, treachery and love. The story revolves around Pindaris who preferred death to dishonour and fought to their last breath to save their land. In the film, Salman plays a Pindari soldier.

The film has five songs and Gulzar has penned them.

'My Name Is Khan' to screen at Berlin film festival

The latest Shah Rukh Khan-Kajol film "My Name Is Khan" has been selected to screen at the 60th annual Berlin International Film Festival, next year, according to the festival organisers.

Directed by Karan Johar and set in the US, "My Name Is Khan" will screen at one of the oldest and most respected film festivals in the world and in a country that has a growing appetite for Indian cinema.

The Berlin International Film Festival runs from Feb 11 to 21, 2010 and will host premieres from top filmmakers from dozens of countries including the world premiere of Martin Scorsese's next film "Shutter Island" starring Leonardo DiCaprio.

Both Johar and Scorsese will be debuting their fourth feature films with actors Khan and DiCaprio, respectively.

"The Competition of the 60th anniversary Berlinale will be marked by a mix of styles and genres, by exciting newcomers and renowned directors," says festival director Dieter Kosslick.

"My Name Is Khan" is set to be released in theatres in India and over 40 countries including the US, Canada, Britain, Australia, New Zealand and the Middle East on Feb 12 on Valentine's Day weekend.

In North America, it will be released by Fox Searchlight Pictures which previously released "The Namesake", "Bend It Like Beckham", "Water", and "Slumdog Millionaire".

An exclusive first-look trailer for "My Name Is Khan" will air on STAR TV Wednesday, at 10:00 p.m. IST and will then be beamed across 70 countries worldwide.

In the film, Shah Rukh stars as Rizvan Khan, an unconventional hero who embarks on an incredible journey across America in order to win back the love of his life. Along the way his unique brand of goodness and humanity touches the lives of many and inspires a nation.

"My Name Is Khan" reunites Shah Rukh, named by Time magazine as "the world's biggest movie star", and Kajol for the first time in eight years. They were last seen together in "Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham" (2001).

They have previously starred in five films together, including "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai" and "Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge", all of which were blockbuster hits that established the pair as Bollywood's hottest on-screen couple.

The film also marks a re-teaming of Karan Johar and Shah Rukh Khan, who most recently collaborated three years ago on "Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna" (2006).

Over the years, Karan and Shah Rukh have enjoyed an unbelievable run at the box office, working together on such hit films as "Kal Ho Naa Ho" and "Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham", some of the most successful Indian films at the international box office.

Celina Jaitley at Accident at Hill Road film event

Priyanka chopra unveiling the music of Pyaar Impossible

Climate change issue is about morals, ethics: Rahul Bose

Indian leaders at Copenhagen should remember that future generations were watching them closely, says Bollywood actor Rahul Bose, amongst the many well-known faces who have flown to Copenhagen to push for a fair deal on climate change.

"The essential issue on the climate change debate is one of morals, ethics and justice. If a group of people are responsible for 90 percent of the damage to a house, surely when it comes to the cost of repairs they should volunteer to pay 90 percent of the expenses," said Bose, also the brand ambassador for international NGO Oxfam India.

"Now is not the time for developing countries to budge from this stance - a stance well articulated in the Kyoto protocol. Indian leaders should remember that future generations are watching them closely," he said in a statement.

Besides Bose, celebrities like Danish model Helena Christensen and British actress Helen Baxendale are also here to take part in the protests.

Nothing impossible for uncle Dev Anand and me: Shekhar Kapur

Internationally acclaimed filmmaker Shekhar Kapur, who has made up with his uncle Dev Anand after eight years, describes the legendary actor as a "karmyogi, completely fearless" and says he is in many ways like the evergreen star.

"It was a time of great reflection for me. As I looked back, I suddenly realised I hadn't met this amazing man, Dev saab, for almost eight years. I told myself it's time to learn a little bit about life from Dev saab," Kapur told IANS.

"He's a karmyogi, completely fearless. I admire myself for being completely fearless. But I think he is even more fearless than I am," he said about his 86-year-old uncle.

Kapur regrets not having been in touch with Dev saab.

"I didn't even meet him after Goldie (Vijay Anand) saab's death. My fault. I was constantly travelling in recent years. I needed to re-connect with this amazing man who has gone through so many ups and downs in his life and yet continues to be tireless in his enthusiasm to make films.

"Wherever he goes, he's cheered and applauded. Maybe people don't like to see his films any more. But the love for the man simply grows wherever he goes," he said.

One of the greatest stars of the Hindi film industry, Dev Anand epitomised the suave, urban gentleman's image in Hindi films in movies like "Munimji", "CID", "Hum Dono", "Jewel Thief" and "Johny Mera Naam". He also directed hits like "Hare Rama Hare Krishna" and "Des Pardes".

Kapur says he loves challenges just like his uncle. "Tell me something can't be done and I'll do it. Ever since I was a kid, I'd swim into the deep ocean. I'd ride the motorcycle the wrong way to see if death can get me. Don't turn to me or Dev saab and say something is impossible. They told me it was impossible for an accountant to be a director. I proved them wrong."

Kapur made his mark as a director in Bollywood with "Masoom", "Mr. India" and "Bandit Queen". Later he moved to Hollywood and carved a niche for himself by making "Elizabeth" and "Four Feathers".

The talented filmmaker has come away from his meeting with his indefatigable uncle determined to correct the sparseness of his output.

"I know I haven't made that many movies. Look at Dev saab's output. But the the fact is after directing 'The Golden Age' (sequel to 'Elizabeth'), I became keenly interested in New Media.

"Two guys in a garage got together and conceived YouTube. That made the way we access the world completely different. I started learning and lecturing on New Media because I thought sharing information and not harping on copyrights was the new mantra," said Kapur.

Kapur will now concentrate on making more films.

"There's no point in doing something unless your heart is in it. Right now my heart is completely into making movies, and not the Hollywood comic book kind of spectacles, please. Such films merely use my skills.

"And I'm a very skilful visualist. I'll make the films that I'll come out of satisfied after two years. I made three short films that gave me immense satisfaction," said Kapur who recently made the short film "New York I Love You".

He says it taught him the value of experimentation.

"Why can't a film be like a symphony? Why are we stuck on telling stories. Nobody looks at a painting and asks what's the story. I want to make films that make suggestions and create an emotional connect with the audience."

He is also designing a whole array of art on the theme "Frozen In Time".

"They are all in celebration of how we use water. I had become a water activist, led greenpeace movements against global warning. I led a conference and designed a chandelier which will soon be in the market. Now it's time to make movies."

Kapur, who turned 64 on Dec 6, says he has also resolved to spend more time with his nine-year-old daughter Kaveri. The father and daughter have been travelling extensively together.

"It's fascinating to get into a mindscape so young. Kaveri is inquisitive, defiant and wise. I must say being with her is of prime importance at this stage of my life."

My character in 'Ishqiya' oozes sensuality: Vidya Balan

After playing an ideal mother in "Paa", Vidya Balan says she is ready to surprise audiences with a completely different avatar in forthcoming movie "Ishqiya". She will be seen as a conniving, scheming woman in Vishal Bharadwaj's dark drama.

"For the first time I'll be playing a woman who is conniving, scheming and in whom there is a sexual aggression," Vidya told IANS in an interview.

"She is an aggressive person. She is someone who is unapologetic about her own choices. Bold is the word I'll use for the lack of a better word. In the Indian context, she would be Rambha, Durga or Kali. She is someone who is dressed from top to toe but oozes sensuality," the actress said.

Set in eastern Uttar Pradesh, "Ishqiya" is a tale of romance between individuals caught in a web of crime, suspense, passion and deceit. Made by first time director Abhishek Chaubey and produced by Bharadwaj, the film also stars Arshad Warsi and Naseeruddin Shah in pivotal roles.

In the film, Vidya sports a deglamourised look and mouths expletives.

Asked if Bharadwaj was the reason she signed "Ishqiya", she said: "It's always very reassuring when the producer is an established guy because when you take a film, you want to know that no compromises will be made while making the film and even after it gets released.

"Of course Vishal comes with a certain brand and credibility...but more importantly I loved the role offered to me. I wouldn't have given it up. Along with that I loved Abhishek's passion and sensibility. So it was a combination of all these things when I made my decision."

The 31-year-old is also looking forward to Sanjay Leela Bhansali's "Chenaab Gandhi" in which she plays Amitabh Bachchan's daughter.

After receiving flak for doing glamorous roles, Vidya has moved to author-backed characters in "Paa", "Chenaab Gandhi" and "Ishqiya". But she says her choice of roles is not a conscious effort to change her image.

"It's not a conscious decision to try and stay away from a particular kind of roles. There is no effort for an image change. It's just that I'm just being offered a lot of exciting work and I've tried to pick and choose different things to keep it very exciting for me," she said.

"Of course, candyfloss is still welcome if it comes with substance, but the very fact that it's candyfloss takes away the substance. So I don't do that much candyfloss because it compromises on substance," added the actress.

Vidya has earlier been seen in films like "Parineeta", "Heyy Babyy", "Bhool Bhulaiyaa" and "Kismat Konnection".

Katrina again voted as Asian sexiest women

Bollywood beauty Katrina Kaif has once again topped as the list of world's 50 sexiest Asian women.

The British Bollywood babe beat off tough competition from other actresses (like Priyanka Chopra, Kareena Kapoor and Bipasha Basu), former beauty queens, models and pop stars to hold on to the Eastern Eye crown she won last year and she retained the top spot in an annual list of the World’s 50 Sexiest Asian Women published by the newspaper Eastern Eye.

Freida Pinto came third on the list, while Aishwarya Rai took the eighth spot. British television star Laila Rouass and Pakistani actress Mehwish Hayat are the only two non-Indians in the list.

The Eastern Eye 50’s top ten includes Katrina Kaif, Priyanka Chopra, Freida Pinto, Laila Rouass, Kareena Kapoor, Bipasha Basu, Lara Dutta, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Mehwish Hayat and Deepika Padukone.

Recently, Handsome and Sexy Bollywood Actors Ranbir Kapoor has been voted as the sexiest man alive by the popular magazine ‘People’ this year.

When Anupam Kher met celebrated Israeli actor Topol

It was a dream come true for actor Anupam Kher to have met "Fiddler On The Roof" legend Topol recently.

There were two international cine-persons that Anupam Kher wanted to meet or work with.

"And by some quirk of faith I managed to work with Woody Allen and meet Topol within one year," says the satiated actor Anupam, just back in Mumbai after an exciting visit to Israel attending the international film festival where his film "A Wednesday" was screened.

"'A Wednesday' was the opening film on December 6. It made a huge impact. The Israelis totally empathized with the theme of terrorism. And that's where I met Topol, the Israeli super-actor from 'Fiddler On The Roof' and 'Galileo'. He was a delight. We spent a good four hours discussing world cinema and Bollywood."

Anupam was delighted to know that Topol was a very close friend of the late and great Raj Kapoor.

"They were very close friends. They met on several occasions and Topol saw a lot of himself in Raj Saab. Topol also knew about Mr Amitabh Bachchan and asked quite a few questions about him," he said.

As far as Anupam's work is concerned, Topol had seen Gurinder Chadha's "Bend It Like Beckham".

"We actually had something very unique in common. We both played old men in our most celebrated works when we were very young. I did 'Saraansh' when I was just 28. And Topol was 36 when he did 'Fiddler On The Roof'."

More unique occurrences in Isreal. Anupam met the celebrated comic actress Hannah Lazslo who had won the best actress award at Cannes in 2005 for "Free Zone".

"We didn't know one another's work at all. But to our surprise we discovered we had both been doing a one-character autobiographical play for years. Her play Life Of Lazslo has had numerous shows all over the world. Luckily so has my one-actor play 'Kuch Bhi Ho Sakta Hai'. We promised to watch each other's play in the near future."

Anupam was also in Israel for the 6-D film India In Motion in which he's the narrator. "It will soon be screen at international airports in India and two shopping malls in Delhi," says Anupam happily.

It's impossible to remake 'Awara': Randhir Kapoor

Randhir Kapoor says he is not interested in remaking his father Raj Kapoor's 1951 classic "Awara" as it would be impossible to find actors of the same calibre that the film's original cast had.

"Many people came to me and my brothers (Rishi and Rajiv) and asked why don't we remake 'Awara'. I told them that it is absolutely impossible to imitate the classic 'Awara' which is loved so much till today," Randhir told reporters at the launch of the book "The Dialogue of Awara; Raj Kapoor's Immortal Classic".

Written by author-documentary filmmaker Nasreen Munni Kabir, the book was released Saturday, two days before the 85th birth anniversary of legendary Raj Kapoor.

"Where will I get Prithviraj Kapoor, Raj Kapoor, Nargisji and where will I get that innocent looking Shashi Kapoor? I would be making a fool of myself by trying to imitate the film because I won't have actors of that calibre again, even if I copy it frame by frame," he added.

Raj Kapoor was only 27 when he made "Awara". Released in 1951, it became one of the most successful films in his career.

"The Dialogue of Awara..." has the original story, dialogues and screenplay along with the screen shots of the movie.

"When Nasreen Munni Kabir approached me with the idea to transform this great film into a book, I got very excited as it's one of my favourite films ever. I discussed it with my brothers and they were also very keen to bring this film in book form for today's generation to see, read and understand what 'Awara' was all about," said Randhir.

Thanking the Kapoor family, Kabir said: "I'm extremely thankful to the Kapoor family. Without their support this wouldn't have been possible. It's by continuously finding new ways to talk about iconic films, we can keep them alive. A book is a way of keeping record of a film in a different way."

Rishi Kapoor was also present at the event.

I don't get commercial films: Raima Sen

Actress Raima Sen says that she is not seen in commercial films because she doesn't get offers to do such movies.

"I don't get commercial films. But I'm happy doing the kind of films I get to do and the directors I work with," said Raima, who was the showstopper at the Gitanjali Lifestyle bridal fashion show here Sunday.

Her forthcoming releases include Aparna Sen's "Japanese Wife", Rituparno Ghosh's "Nouka Dubi", Vinay Shukla's "Mirch" and Leena Yadav's "Teen Patti" -- all would get released soon.

"I'm offered only these kind of films. If a good commercial film will come my way, I would love to do it. As of now, I'm going back to Kolkata to shoot for another Bengali film," she added.

At the fashion show, Raima walked the ramp in a lace lehenga designed by Pria Kataria Puri.

"I really loved the lehenga I was wearing and the other gowns were equally nice," said Raima.

At the show 14 models walked the ramp displaying bridal creations by designer Varija Bajaj, Monica and Karishma, Puri and Prriya and Chintan.

Adding glamour to the show was a power packed performance by Manasi Scott.

Bipasha to perform at New Year eve bash

Actress Bipasha Basu and singer Sudesh Bhosle will add glitz to the New Year eve celebrations at the Sahara Star Hotel here, says an official.

"Bipasha Basu will perform in our hotel on New Year eve," Vivek Kumar, CEO of hotel, told IANS.

He, however, refused to reveal how much Bipasha was charging for her performance.

"She is priceless. We do not attach any price to art, but yes, there are certain commitments that will be fulfilled," said Kumar, and added that Sudesh Bhonsle would also perform.

Asked about other performers, he said: "We are in very advanced talks with some other celebrities and I think it will be confirmed very soon who else are going to be there."

Kumar informed that they have designed various packages and priced them differently for those who want to enjoy the New Year eve extravaganza.

"There are different packages. The food and beverage package will cost Rs.11,500 per head. There are other packages for those who book a room in the hotel for that night."

Bipasha's manager confirmed the news to IANS, saying: "Yes, it's true (that she is performing)."

I'm selective while choosing movies: Giselle Monteiro

Brazilian model Giselle Monteiro, who played Saif Ali Khan's love interest in "Love Aaj Kal", says she is getting movie offers but she is being selective while choosing them.

"I'm living in Mumbai, doing some modelling here and there and also going for auditions. I'm happy with the offers I'm getting, but haven't signed any as yet. I'm kind of selective about the movies," Giselle told IANS at the Gitanjali Lifestyle Bridal Fashion show.

She walked the ramp Sunday for Monica and Karishma's Jade Collection. "This is not the first time I'm doing this, I have done it for Ritu Kumar also," she said.

Praising the designers' clothes, Giselle, who wore a green lehenga-choli at the show, said: "The colours are lovely. They (outfits) are not heavy at all. I feel very beautiful in these clothes."

Big B launches Vikram Phadnis store at Juhu

All my love moments had been impossible:Uday Chopra

Actor Uday Chopra says he took inspiration from his own love life to write his forthcoming movie "Pyaar Impossible", a love story about a beauty and a geek.

"All my moments in love had been impossible. So, I have written this story," he said.

Uday has teamed up with Priyanka Chopra in the film -- while he plays a geek, Priyanka will be seen as the most sought after beauty. Directed by Jugal Hansraj, "Pyaar Impossible" is a romantic comedy that shows how Uday and Priyanka come together by a twist of fate and love blooms amidst all odds.

The film is releasing early next year and Uday is worried about audiences' reaction to his endeavour.

"It was good so far. I am really waiting to see how public takes the film," Uday told reporters at the RK Studio. He was here with Priyanka to cheer the participants of Sony's talent hunt show Dance Premier Leauge (DPL).

Graces Resort Collection Preview

Former Miss World Priyanka announced as special guest at 59th Miss World Final

Former Miss World and Bollywood superstar actress Priyanka Chopra will appear before an estimated global TV audience of one billion when she takes to the stage as a very special guest at the 59th Miss World Final 2009, on Saturday 12 December.

The glittering two-hour spectacular from Gallagher Convention Centre in the City of Gold, Johannesburg will showcase the beauty and talent of 112 of the World’s most incredible young women, who have spent one month enjoying the wonders of South Africa.

Presenters of the show will be China’s leading TV presenter Angela Chow and South African TV host Michelle McLean. They will be joined by special guest from India, former Miss World Priyanka Chopra, who won the Miss World crown in 2000 and has now established herself as one of the leading actresses in Bollywood.

The show will be screened around the globe, with many countries taking it live to a massive TV audience. Broadcasters include United States (E! TV), India (Zee TV, Hindi and English language versions), South Africa (SABC3), China (CCTV2), and Russia (CTC).

As well as showcasing the 112 contestants, the live broadcast will feature exciting presentations by South African and international artists, as well as some of the contestants’ own talent performances, including Canada and Sierra Leone who jointly won the recent Miss World Talent Show.

Ranbir Kapoor at the Big Adda Yamaha Bike Rally