Faridoon Shahryar's Blog


Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Bodyguard: Incredulous, Paisa Vasool Entertainer

Bodyguard Lovely Singh is shot on the shoulder. He goes to the railway station and stays there all day, without medical attention. Obviously. Well, leave aside such 'unbelievable' herogiri and by the end of 'Bodyguard' you are suitably charmed with a light, groovy feeling smeared with a smile. 'Bodyguard' doesn't have the drab-n-needless digression of 'Dabanng' (Arbaz Khan-Vinod Khanna track) and it doesn't have the loud, double meaning dialogues of 'Ready'. Its a clean entertaining film, a fun taut ride that has a fine mix of action, romance and comedy.

In the Bollywood Hungama interview that I did with Salman Khan and Kareena Kapoor recently, Salman said, that his chemistry with Kareena is one of the best ever. (http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/broadband/video/Interviews/RAjAxx66/3/Salman-Khan-And-Kareena-Kapoor-s-Bollywood-Hungama-Exclusive.html). I'd second that completely. The love between the two is 'incredulous' and hard-to-digest with Karisma Kapoor playing a coy-catalyst. But still there's a simplicity in the romance that is highly touching and endearing.

Lovely Singh doesn't like keeping anyone's 'ehsaan' (favour) and thrashes goons by-the-dozen with an effortless ease. When he is not earning copious whistles for his bare body antics, he remains busy on his cell phone with a whacky ring tone that is bound to keep the cell phone companies busy for some time at least. Songs are spaced out well and are delightful scenic-n-aural breaks. 'I Love You' is a wonderful romantic track while 'Teri Meri' has been shot exceptionally and is very melodious.

Vijayan's action is one of the biggest attraction and a bait for the repeat viewing of the film. Sejal Shah's camera work is competent. Sanjay Sankla's editing is sharp, the dragging moments are missing. There's nothing much in the story and its hard-to-believe. But director Siddique's treatment is simple, engaging and keeps you hooked till the end.

Salman Khan excels like never before. His action is top notch, the dancing is cool, looks very young-n-in-shape and acts well. Like Chulbul Pandey, you will be treated to Lovely Singh and not Salman Khan. Kareena Kapoor in her traditional avatar appeals immensely. Her wardrobe will be emulated in a big way. The sarees in 'Teri Meri' and the way Kapoor carries them, is simply gorgeous. As an actress, she will be extremely satisfied with this performance. Rajat Rawail as Tsunami brings in funny (mostly) South Indian brand of humour that keeps you in splits.

'Bodyguard' is a masala entertainer with just-the-right-dosage of action, romance, comedy and emotions. You wouldn't want to believe most of what you'll see on screen. But you'll enjoy yourself for sure. Go for it.

Star Rating: 3 1/2 stars

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

TGIYB, Karan Johar Interview, SRK-Salman Wish Their Fans

'That Girl In Yellow Boots' is, as expected, as 'Real' as it gets. Chained lover, demented don, cheap sex and torn walls. Haunting background score, fine camerawork, superb acting by Kalki and Kalki's kick-ass parlour friend are the saving grace of a film that grips you partially for its unpredictable narrative but by the end of it, leaves you with quite an exhausting drab feeling.

Here's the Karan Johar interview where he has spoken about his dad's affiliation with 'Agneepath', the "great on screen chemistry" between Hrithik Roshan and Priyanka Chopra, promotional plans and more

http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/broadband/video/Interviews/hQ7SyL28/3/Karan-Johar-Speaks-About-Agneepath.html

Here's a teaser of the Katrina Kaif, Ali Zafar and Imran Khan's Bollywood Hungama exclusive interview

http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/broadband/video/Special-Features/176IP288/3/Teaser-1-Imran-Katrina-Ali-s-Exclusive-Interview.html

Salman Khan, Shahrukh Khan, Shahid Kapoor, Katrina Kaif, Ali Zafar, Kareena Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra, Sonam Kapoor and many more stars wish you guys Eid Mubarak and Ganesh Chaturthi

http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/broadband/video/Special-Features/PWRXdy21/3/Stars-Wishes-Eid-Mubarak-And-Happy-Ganesh-Chaturthi.html

Shahrukh, Priyanka, Hrithik at the Ganesh Hegde album launch

http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/broadband/video/Parties-and-Events/Shc9Zs79/3/SRK-Priyanka-Hrithik-At-Ganesh-Hedge-s-Album-Launch.html

Eid Mubarak to all of you guys. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi.

Agneepath Promo on Bollywood Hungama:135698 video views (15 hours)

The first look promo of 'Agneepath' has generated 135698 video views on Bollywood Hungama in a span of 15 hours. A few more videos that have generated substantial response in the past week on Bollywood Hungama are as follows:

15 sec teaser of 'Chammak Challo' (Ra.one): 280254
15 sec teaser of 'The Dirty Picture': 200718
Kareena Kapoor's interview part 1: 102576
Salman and Kareena's interview: 81270 (in mere 18 hours, phenomenal response)

Here's the link to the video of the first look promo launch of 'Agneepath'

http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/broadband/video/Parties-and-Events/X7X0fR69/3/First-Look-Launch-Of-Agneepath.html

A lot of you were confused why the first part of Shahid Kapoor's interview on Bollywood Hungama was deleted on saturday Aug 27. Well, the producer had given us embargo dates and according to that, Shahid's interview could be featured only after August 29. Our team had accidentally featured it on August 27. I am glad that this interview has generated such a great response. Second part has a few fan questions. Coming soon ;)

The four parts of the 'Karma: 25 August Years' documentary on Bollywood Hungama has been received very well. With over 2 lac video views for this documentary, it feels great that the effort that our entire team put into this venture has paid off brilliantly. It took us over 4 months for us to put this documentary. It was the brainchild of our Co Founder and Head of Bollywood Hungama, Mr Suleman Mobhani.

Initially we approached at least three production houses to shoot and package this documentary for us. For some reason or the other, it didn't materialise. Finally I had to take up the mantle of writer-director albeit reluctantly. Mr Subhash Ghai was a great help. He provided us with the behind the scenes video footage, working stills and background score of the film. Mr Ghai was constantly encouraging and meetings with him enriched me with lots of stories on the functioning of Bollywood back in the late 70s, 80s and 90s.

We did exhaustive interviews with Mr Ghai, Jackie Shroff, Pyarelal ji (Laxmikant Pyarelal), Anupam Kher, Anil Kapoor and Poonam Dhillon. Th editing was the tough part, as it always is. What to keep and what to chuck is a dicey proposition. We had several rough cuts before we finally got the final cut. The video footage of the Mahurat and the Special Screening of 'Karma' shot way back in 1986 had glitches and it was a painstaking job to iron out the creases. We have a good final product but it could have been better. Many lessons learnt for future projects.

Check out the 'Karma: 25 August Years' documentary in four parts


http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/broadband/video/Special-Features/HLvvfG40/3/Karma-25-August-Years-Part-1.html

http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/broadband/video/Special-Features/PbLw7m50/3/Karma-25-August-Years-Part-2.html

http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/broadband/video/Special-Features/Lsq9Jx15/3/Karma-25-August-Years-Part-3.html

http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/broadband/video/Special-Features/auTuNS14/3/Karma-25-August-Years-Part-4.html

There are two press shows of 'That Girl In Yellow Boots' today. Hopefully I'll catch the afternoon one. 'Bodyguard' press show is tomorrow and there's a screening today but its way too late in the night :(

At the Ganesh Hegde album launch last night, the highlight was Shahrukh, Priyanka, Hrithik and Zayed dancing with Hegde on stage.

Four promos coming up on Bollywood Hungama today

Rockstar
Rascals
Damadumm
The Dirty Picture

Enjoy!!!

Monday, August 29, 2011

"You Say Aamir And Shahrukh Na...": Salman Khan

Here are a few main highlights of the Salman-Kareena interview and the link below it. Hope you guys enjoy it!


1) Salman is not going to get married till 2025: Kareena

2) One day I say I want to marry. One day I say I don't want to. One day I say I am already married: Salman

3) 'Source' wahi hota hai jo basically coward hai: Salman

4) This is a good time. I am sure, time will get better: Salman

5) I am a lucky girl to have a bodyguard like Salman: Kareena

6) Lolo (Karisma) is lovely. I've done 12-13 films with Lolo. Once I've done,
12-13 films with Bebo, Lolo will come back: Salman

7) After Jab We Met, Bodyguard is my career best role: Kareena

8) I've seen Bodyguard. It is super. I would have been jealous if i wasn't a part of it: Kareena

9) Don 2 (promo)...ab nahin hai to kya kar sakte hain...For my next film, if it releases before 'Ra.one', for you (Kareena), I will have the promo: Salman

10) Rumours (about Salman's treatment in USA) nahin honge. I'll be in touch (with my fans): Salman

http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/broadband/video/Interviews/RAjAxx66/3/Salman-Khan-And-Kareena-Kapoor-s-Bollywood-Hungama-Exclusive.html

Here's the theatrical trailer of Agneepath

http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/broadband/video/Movie-Promos/NFTtrb49/3/Theatrical-Trailer-Agneepath.html

What did you guys think of it? What did you guys think of the live webcast of Agneepath promo launch on Bollywood Hungama today? I did a one on one with Karan Johar before the event. This interview should be up by tomorrow. The first look promo launch of 'The Dirty Picture' happening in Bombay tomorrow. Vidya Balan is looking stunning in the 15 sec teaser. Looking forward to the theatrical now.

Cheers and Eid Mubarak to all those who will be celebrating it tomorrow.

"Aamir Is A Marketing Genius": Shahid Kapoor

Here's the first part of Shahid Kapoor's Bollywood Hungama exclusive interview. Hope you guys like it.

http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/broadband/video/Interviews/rsSzYU50/3/Shahid-Kapoor-Speaks-About-Mausam-Part-1.html

Sunday, August 28, 2011

Katrina-Imran-Ali, Agneepath, SRK

I did an interview with Katrina Kaif, Ali Zafar and Imran Khan today. It was a joint interview. Fun 25 minutes. They've sung, pulled each other's legs and shelled out interesting anecdotes while working on 'Mere Brother Ki Dulhan'. We shall be presenting this interview in two parts. Will try and share a 60 sec teaser of this interview soon.

The first look promo launch of 'Agneepath' is happening in Mumbai tomorrow. We are all set to bring the live webcast of this event on Bollywood Hungama. Priyanka, Hrithik, Karan Johar, Sanjay Dutt and Rishi Kapoor will be present tomorrow. Hope it goes well and all you guys enjoy all the live proceedings. Here's the link for 'Agneepath' promo launch live webcast:

http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/livetv/agneepath/index.html

Two more events for tomorrow are:

1) Ganesh Hegde's music album (Let's Party) launch. Shahrukh Khan will be present.

2) The premiere of 'That Girl In Yellow Boots'.

We, at Bollywood Hungama shall be featuring the Salman-Kareena and Shahid Kapoor's part 1 interviews tomorrow morning. Hopefully you guys will like them.

Enjoy!

Saturday, August 27, 2011

"Jab We Met Is Kareena's Best Performance": Salman Khan

Finally managed to do a joint video interview with Salman Khan and Kareena Kapoor. Karisma Kapoor also joined in and looked on as the interview went ahead. I've dedicated this interview primarily to fan questions. And the end result is very satisfying. Salman considers 'Jab We Met' as Kareena's best performance. He liked her chemistry with Shahid. Salman spoke on how stories are planted about him in the media especially before the release of a film.

Salman, considering, 'Bodyguard' is releasing on August 31 which is a wednesday, and there will be a five day weekend, can we see the opening weekend record of 'Dabanng' being broken this Eid? Kareena, if you have to choose between 'Bodyguard', Ra.one or Aamir's forthcoming film as the most satisfying film as an actress, which one will be it? How does Salman react to this question?

Ayesha asked Salman, if she steals his passport and refuse to give it back till he agrees to marry her, what will Salman do? Lensa wanted Kareena to define 'Bodyguard' and Salman Khan in one word. Harshita enquired, how come 'Rockstar' promo is showcasing with Bodyguard considering Salman is known to have differences with Ranbir? Salvin Khan had dreamt that Salman and Kareena had got married in real life. What is Salman and Kareena's reaction?

Link of Agneepath Promo Launch Live Webcast On Bollywood Hungama

You guys can check out the live webcast of 'Agneepath' first look promo launch
on Bollywood Hungama at 11 am (IST) through this link...Enjoy!

http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/livetv/agneepath/index.html

"Salman Is A Religion...": Kareena Kapoor

Check out the first part of Kareena Kapoor's Bollywood Hungama exclusive interview. Here are a few main highlights in text for the fans to savour as well. Enjoy!

1) Salman is a religion..he is somebody whom people follow blindly...

2) This is the most exciting phase of my career. I am feeling quite loved.

3) I am here to do my work. I don't want to get into anyone's personal space. I am very close to Salman, and I am as close to Shahrukh. Its not my area what their problems are.

4) The way Shahrukh has made Ra.one, the kind of power Shahrukh has put into it, I have such a lovely role in the film. I hope on Diwali it will be quite record breaking.

5) I think Agent Vinod, Imran's film and Aamir's film will happen next year.

6) I hope me and Aamir can create the same magic (in Reema's film). I think we make a great pair. I can't talk about my role but I think people once again will go quite crazy.

7) I've never spoken about money, and I never will in the press. Every actor gets what they deserve. I want to work with Madhur and he knows that. I am very excited about Heroine. It will be a great movie.

8) I don't want to do movies just for the awards.

9) I would love to work with Imtiaz again. All my fans want that to happen.

10) There is no item song by Priyanka in Ra.one. She has done a scene in the movie.

11) I think they were contemplating Karisma to do a voice over for the film (Bodyguard). These days Karisma is absolutely radiating. I hope me and Karisma can come together.

http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/broadband/video/Interviews/V7wxzI94/3/Kareena-Kapoor-s-Bollywood-Hungama-Exclusive.html

Friday, August 26, 2011

Kareena Interview, The Dirty Picture, Bodyguard Public Opinion, Agneepath Live Webcast,

I've received some superb questions for Salman Khan and Kareena Kapoor today. But the news is that the joint interview with Salman and Kareena didn't happen. Salman is leaving for US tomorrow for treatment and gave a few solo interviews today. I spoke to him and enquired about his health. "Super," he said. I suggest to all the fans not to pay heed to the rumours. Yes, Salman is in discomfort but the rumour mongering shouldn't be encouraged.

We did get a one on one with Kareena Kapoor. It went well. She looked great in Punjabi salwar kameez n wonderful accessories. I told her that she looked like Geet Dhillon from 'Jab We Met'. Kareena says that her fans should look forward to 'Bodyguard' as her role and performance has turned out very well. She referred to Salman Khan as a "religion with a huge following". Kapoor spoke on mom Babita n Karisma, has Karisma done the VO in 'Bodyguard'? Did Kareena jus spill the beans? :)

Kareena spoke on 'Ra.one', 'Chammak Challo' and Reema's film (she says its a supernatural film). She thinks 'Agent Vinod' will be pushed to next year. Kapoor clarified that Priyanka Chopra has not done any song in 'Ra.one'. "She is there in a scene," she said. As for 'Heroine' she said that a lot of rumour mongering is going on with regards to her role n remuneration but things are yet to be finalised. Is she doing Imtiyaz Ali's film for Sajid Nadiadwala opposite Hrithik Roshan? What are her birthday plans? What is her fitness regimen like? First part of Kareena Kapoor's Bollywood Hungama exclusive tomorrow morning.

Live Webcast of 'Agneepath' promo launch is now happening on August 29, Monday at 11 AM (IST). I am glad the webcast has generated such a tremendous buzz.

Here's the Bollywood Hungama exclusive Public Opinion of 'Bodyguard' where we spoke to cine goers in multiplex as well as single screen theatres in Bombay.

http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/broadband/video/public-opinion/BhLdHo82/3/Public-Opinion-Of-Bodyguard.html

There is a chance of Salman-Kareena's joint video interview tomorrow. I've noted all the questions. I really hope it happens as it'll be a special video for sure.

Here are a few movie teasers

Chammak Challo (Ra.one)

http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/broadband/video/Movie-Promos/PB4SX56/3/Chhamak-Challo-Ra-One.html

The Dirty Picture

http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/broadband/video/Movie-Promos/pBXg7145/3/Teaser-1-The-Dirty-Picture.html

Na Aaja Veh (Speedy Singh)

http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/broadband/video/Movie-Promos/cHov3i77/3/Ne-Aaja-Veh-Speedy-Singhs.html

Eesha Koppikhar's youtube link where she blasts Ram Gopal Varma




As I always say at the end of my interviews...Keep on watching! :)

Shahid's Interview Teaser, Chammak Challo Promo On Bollywood Hungama

Here's the 60 sec teaser of Shahid Kapoor's Bollywood Hungama exclusive interview...first part will be up on Monday August 29

http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/broadband/video/Special-Features/qHntbr83/3/Teaser-1-Shahid-Kapoor-s-Bollywood-Hungama-Exclusive-Interview.html

Chammak Challo promo from Ra.one will be coming up on Bollywood Hungama today afternoon

Making of I Love You (Bodyguard)

http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/broadband/video/making-of-the-music/hiTBTg8/3/Making-Of-I-Love-You-Bodyguard.html

We have done a public opinion of Bodyguard in multiplex and single screen theatres in Mumbai. The video will be up soon.

Enjoy!

Thursday, August 25, 2011

Send Your Questions For Salman Khan and Kareena Kapoor

Doing a joint interview with Salman Khan and Kareena Kapoor tomorrow. You guys can send in your questions at faridoonshahryar@gmail.com or post in the comments section. Will try and take a few.

Live Webcast Of 'Agneepath' Promo Launch On Bollywood Hungama

Live Webcast of the first look promo launch of 'Agneepath Remake' on Bollywood Hungama, Monday August 29 at 12 Noon. Hrithik Roshan, Priyanka Chopra, Rishi Kapoor, Sanjay Dutt and Karan Johar will be present. Don't miss it!

Here's the link where you can watch the webcast on Bollywood Hungama


http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/livetv/agneepath/index.html

"Don Might Miss Me": Eesha Koppikhar

Shankar, Ehsan and Loy celebrated 15 years of their association by throwing a party for their friends from Bollywood yesterday August 24 in Bombay. Karan Johar, Aamir Khan, Gauri Khan, Ashutosh Gowariker, Shaan, Farhan Akhtar, Zoya Akhtar, Shabana Azmi, Javed Akhtar, Nagesh Kukkoonoor, Sudhir Mishra, Nikhil Advani, Kaliash Kher, Sunidhi Chauhan etc were present. A few of the highlights of the evening were Aamir asking the trio to sing the 'Dil Chahta Hai' title track, Farhan getting into the 'Rock On' mode, Shaan and Shankar singing 'main Hoon Don', while Shankar dedicating 'Sajda' from 'My Name Is Khan' to Karan Johar, Sunidhi enjoyed herself with 'Bum Ro' (Mission Kashmir) and Sonu Nigam made everyone moist eyed with 'Kal Ho Na Ho' title track. I spoke to Shankar yesterday morning. Hopefully, we shall be doing a jhoint video interview with the trio soon. This concert was also meant to dispel rumours of the trio having broken up and going their separate ways.

I interviewed Eesha Koppikar and 'Shabri' director Lalit Marathe yesterday. When I reminded Lalit about an interview he gave to 'The Hindustan Times' in 2009 where he had said that he'd never work with Ram Gopal Varma again after what has happened to his directorial debut film, he chose not to react to it much. Instead he praised RGV. Eesha on the other hand was more animated and blasted RGV. It was very clear that the five year delay in the release of her film has affected her a lot. Eesha also said that 'Don' might miss her since she is not in 'Don 2'. Here is Eesha's interview link:

http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/broadband/video/Interviews/DicAD289/3/Eesha-Koppikhar-Speaks-About-Shabri.html

Lalit has also written a novel 'A Dog's Friday' which is about the ordeal of waiting for five long years before his first film finally is all set to release in theatres.

Here's the youtube link to Anurag-Kalki's interview



The youtube link of the second part of Ranveer Singh's interview



The youtube link of Siddique's interview

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

What Is Shahid Kapoor's Take On Kaminey 2?

I interview stars on a daily basis. Due to professional requirements, the frequency has risen by manifolds in the last few months. I try and retain high energy in all the interactions but there are a few celebrities I look forward to interviewing the most. Shahid Kapoor is one of them. We chatted for half an hour yesterday and this is by far the most comprehensive interview that I've done with SK till now. Comprehensive, because, I tried raising subjects that we had not discussed before.

Shahid spoke on Mausam, sang 'Rabba' and also clarified on the reports of the film going over budget and whether he sat on the edit of the film. He says Mausam, in all probability will be his biggest release ever. The producers are looking at 2000-2200 screens worldwide. Yes its going to have a release in all the key overseas sectors like Germany, Australia etc and even at places like Austria.

Kapoor also spoke on his secular credentials, something that comes naturally to him since his dad is a Hindu and mom is a Muslim. He spoke about his idea of being an Indian and what he feels about it in his own way. I've had many interactions with Shahid's fans over the last two years. I remember once I discussed with two of his fans simultaneously on twitter, why they were, at times, dissatisfied with Shahid's choice of scripts. We discussed that in this interview. So, what's the dope on Kunal Kohli's film, whats the status quo on Heer Ranjha and what about Kaminey 2? Well, if you want to know all this, you gotta watch the interview which is coming in two parts. When is it coming? How about some mystery? :) Would you guys like to see a teaser of this interview? Trust me, it'll be fun 60 sec trip :)

Yes, I've taken a few fan questions and wishes but I've tried to take those who haven't yet been part of the earlier interviews. Yes, Komal187, I got your email and yes your questions would have been fun, as they always are, had you sent it in time. Some other time.

Bye for now...till later...

Take care and All The Best!










Monday, August 22, 2011

Send In Your Questions For Shahid-Sonam

Guys, i am doing an interview with Shahid Kapoor and Sonam Kapoor tomorrow. You can send in your questions for them at faridoonshahryar@gmail.com

Anurag-Kalki, Rockstar Promo, MBKD Premiere

It is always interesting to interview Anurag Kashyap. The man is controversial, is willing to answer any n every sort of questions and has a vulnerable ease around him thats comforting in a strange manner. In fact i did a joint interview with Anurag and Kalki. Apart from 'That Girl In Yellow Boots', we spoke about their thoughts on Payal Rohatgi's barbs at their relationship, futue plans etc. When I asked what was it in Kalki that attracted Anurag, he simply said that the fact that she did not 'judge' him when he was passing through a very bad phase was something that was special for him. Its a long interview and a satisfying one. There are moments when the two indulge in typical husband-wife bantering. We are planning to include a few vignettes from such interactions in the final edit of the interview. It will make for alluring content :)

I saw the promo of 'Rockstar' today. Well, 'fantastic' has to be the word to describe it. Ranbir Kapoor shells out a wide palette of emotions. And does exceedingly well in various hues-n-shades. There is a reference to Jim Morrison, Rahman's music is captivating (wide palette of genres). But for me the surprise packet was Nargis. In an emotional outburst, she really looked like a seasoned actress. Also, she can be funny and the romantic moments between Ranbir-Nargis are scorching. The 'comfort level' between the duo is there for everyone to savour. It was great to see a glimpse of Shammi Kapoor sahab in the promo.

It is confirmed that the premiere of 'Mere Brother Ki Dulhan' is happening in Abu Dhabi on September 7. At least three concerts are planned to happen in India from August 26 onwards and there's a press conference in Ahmedabad on August 25 where the MBKD team will be present.

Sunday, August 14, 2011

Shammi Kapoor: Entertainer Par Excellence

Its my misfortune that I couldn't meet Shammi Kapoor sahab in person. We covered the music launch of 'Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na' outside his residence where Aamir and Imran spoke to the media but only one video cameraman was allowed inside Shammi ji's house to capture his interaction with the JTYJN team. Well, I grew up on the Sunday evening movie excitement of Doordarshan in the nineteen eightees where I saw many of Shammi ji's famous films like 'Kashmir Ki Kali', 'Professor', 'Teesri Manzil', 'Brahmchari', 'Dil Deke Dekho', 'Janwar', 'Rajkumar' etc.

Shammi Kapoor was an entertainer par excellence. He will be remembered for his style and the aura that he commanded. In the 1960s he delivered several hits and was in the driver's seat as far as deciding the key players of a film starring him. I read a book on R D Burman recently and how Kapoor decided to back him after seeing the young composer's enthusiasm. 'Teesri Manzil' happened and the music of that film is one of the biggest highpoint of Shammi's career as an entertainer.

His home in a housing society at Malabar Hills in Mumbai has been buzzing with activity after his demise today morning at 5:15 am. Aamir Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Subhash Ghai, Jaya Bachchan, Imran Khan, Rishi Kapoor, Randhir Kapoor, Tanuja, Vinod Khanna, Bobby Deol, Saif Ali Khan, Kareena Kapoor and many other Bollywood celebrities and other eminent people from various walks of life have visited Kapoor's house since morning. His last rites will be performed tomorrow August 15 at Baandhganga in Bombay between 11 am-12 Noon.

This is what a few of the Bollywood celebrities said about Shammi Kapoor

Amitabh Bachchan: 'Shammi ji ... An entire life full of optimism and happy spirit, caring loving to all ... Now suddenly silent.'

Priyanka Chopra tweeted: 'sometimes no amount of kind words can compensate for a loss! bhole baba ki jai shammi maharajji.. he was our guruji..im at a loss.. nothing will ever fill the void u have left @shamsheraj . im sorry i didnt try RESSEE.. but wil do.. only for u.. R.I.P'

Mahesh Bhatt tweeted: 'The narrative of Shammi Kapoor will not end with his passing away. His movies will continue to enchant the future generations!'

Shabana Azmi received the sad news at Brussels airport. 'At brussels airport learned d sad news about shammi kapoorji.we mourn the loss of d most zinda dil man I've ever met. condolence to d family,' she wrote.

Farhan Akhtar tweeted: 'Mr. Shammi Kapoor. Never before - Never again. Thank you for the wonderful cinematic memories and life lessons. RIP.'

Deepika Padukone will miss the veteran too: 'He was an inspiration not just for his style and the films he did,but also his attitude towards life...we will miss you Shammi uncle...#RIP.'

Dia Mirza tweeted: 'The happiest, caring, kind and considerate man...You leave with us memories that are precious... @shamsheraj RIP Shammi Kapoor love u forever.'

Shekhar Kapur tweeted. 'The great iconic Shammi Kapoor who defined an era n influenced music, dance n song even today has passed away, leaving a hollow vioid,' he updated.

Karan Johar said he was one of the strongest men he knew. 'One of finest and strongest men I knew...we will truly miss you shammi uncle....RIP,' he tweeted.

Manoj Bajpayee
tweeted: 'May god bless shammiji's soul.may he rest in peace!ian era comes to an end with his demise!'

Neha Dhupia tweeted: 'RIP Shammi kapoor ji ... Ur magic will always be remembered !'

Minissha Lamba was saddened by the news. 'Deeply saddened by the news of @shamsheraj sir's demise, No1 in d fraternity can ever fit in your shoes. You will be missed, sir. R.I.P.' she wrote.

A few of the films starring Shammi Kapoor

Jeevan Jyoti (1953)
Rail Ka Dibba (1953)
Thokar (1953)
Laila Majnu (1953) Nutan
Ladki (1953)
Gul Sanobar (1953)
Khoj (1953)
Shama Parwana (1954)
Mehbooba (1954)
Ehsan (1954)
Chor Bazar (1954)
Tangewali (1955)
Naqab (1955)
Miss Coca Cola (1955)
Daku (1955)
Sipahsalar (1956)
Rangeen Raatein (1956) Mala Sinha
Memsahib (1956)
Hum Sab Chor Hain (1956)
Tumsa Nahin Dekha (1957 film) Ameeta
Maharani (1957)
Coffee House (1957)
Mirza Sahiban (1957)
Mujrim (1958)
Dil Deke Dekho (1958) Asha Parekh
Ujala (1959) Mala Sinha
Raat ke Raahi (1959)
Mohar (1959)
Basant (1960)
College Girl (1960) Vyjayanthimala
Singapore (1960) Padmini
Boyfriend (1961)
Junglee (1961) Saira Banu
Dil Tera Diwana (1962) Mala Sinha
Professor (1962) Kalpana
China Town (1962) Shakeela/Helen
Bluff Master (1963)
Shahid Bhagat Singh (1963)
Jab Se Tumhe Dekha Hai (1963)
Pyar Kiya To Darna kya (1963)
Rajkumar (1964) Sadhana
Kashmir Ki Kali (1964) Sharmila Tagore
Janwar (1965) Rajashri
Teesri Manzil (1966) Anil Kumar
Preet Na Jaane Reet (1966)
Budtameez (1966)
An Evening in Paris (1967) Sharmila Tagore
Laat Saheb (1967) Nutan
Brahmachari (1968) Rajashri
Prince (1969) Vyjayanthimala
Tum se Acchaa Kaun Hai (1969) Babita
Sachchai (1969) Sadhana
Pagla Kahin Ka (1970) Asha Parekh/Helen
Andaz (1971) Hema Malini/Simi
Jawan Mohabbat (1971) Asha Parekh
Jaane Anjane (1971) Leena Chandavarkar
Parvarish (1973)
Zameer (1973)
Manoranjan (1974) Zeenat Aman
Chhote Sarkar (1974) Sadhana
Shalimar (1978)
Meera (1979) .... Raja Vikramjeet Singh Sesodia
Professor Pyarelal (1981)
Rocky (1981)
Naseeb (1981)
Prem Rog (1982) Sushma Seth
Vidhaata (1982)
Desh Premee (1982)
Hero (1983) Urmila Bhat
Betaab (1983)
Sohni Mahiwal (1984)
Hukumat (1987)
Ijaazat (1988)
Ajooba (1991)
Tahelka (1992)
Chamatkar (1992)
Sukham Sukhakaram (1994) (Malayalam)
Aur Pyar Ho Gaya (1996) Shammi
Kareeb (1998)
Jaanam Samjha Karo (1999)
East Is East (1999)
Yeh Hay Jalwa
Waah! Tera Kya Kehna (2002)
Bhola in Bollywood (2005)
Sandwich (2006)
Rockstar (film) (2011)

A very interesting video interview of Shammi Kapoor

http://www.youtube.com/user/shammiweb

Infectious energy of Shammi Kapoor will continue to live on. So many have already said it, but here's saying it once again, 'Yahoo'!

Tuesday, August 2, 2011

"Its A Line That Suits Aamir Quite Well": Farhan Akhtar

“I think as far as Aamir’s track record goes and his performances, I think it’s a line that suits him quite well,” said Farhan Akhtar in a video interview I conducted with him recently for a special feature on Dil Chahta Hai completing 10 years. And, what’s the line that we are talking about? Perfection ko improve karna mushkil hota hai. “It feels nice to know that ke pehli film jispe aapne kaam kiya tha woh logon ko 10 saal baad bhi itni pasand hai, itni yaad hai. It feels good,” Farhan said. Yes, DCH is remembered, not only for an entertaining storyline but also for wonderful performances and a superb technical team that worked in tandem to give a new direction to Bollywood at the turn of this century.

It was said at the time of the film’s release, that it was inspired by the real life friendship of Farhan, Uday Chopra and Hrithik Roshan. “There was a time when Uday, Hrithik myself and many other friends we used to go to Goa and spend wonderful time there. Some very funny and strange things also happened there.” Farhan also said, that there were reference points from his real life in DCH but several moments were fictionalized as well to keep the dramatic momentum flowing. Akshaye slaps Aamir in the film, it was said that something similar had happened between you and Uday. “No such thing. You do certain things for movies, you want to create a cinematic drama. Of course, there is drama in life but the kind of drama we are talking about did not happen in my life with my friends,” Farhan said.

Being the son of Javed Akhtar and Honey Irani, were things easy for you in anyway? “I really did not want my parents to get involved in helping me to get actors on board. The only person my mom helped me with, was Dimple, to get to meet her but apart from that, whether its Aamir, I really did not want them to do this film because they felt obliged to do it because of my father or my mother.” Did you have a Bound Script when you approached the actors? “I had a bound script, it wasn’t completely detailed but it was like a start to end story.”

Alright, Nakul Kamte did the sound design in DCH. He had earlier worked in Lagaan, so did Aamir suggest him for sync sound? “No, Nakul Kamte was suggested to Aamir for Lagaan by me. Nakul went up there and then got on to DCH,” It was the first film in sync sound for Saif, Akshaye, Preity and Dimple Kapadia.

Looking back at Dil Chahta Hai, is there anything you’d like to change about the film? “The only thing I would like to change if I had a choice but now I don’t is that probably I would not get Akshaye to meet that girl at the end of the film. I think I should have left him just with the friends. Somehow I wanted a slightly satisfying end, you know, bechara why should he be alone at that point, but when I see it now I really wish it would have been a much more heartwarming end for his character to just being with the memory of this women and how his friends were back. It would have been a nice end," Farhan said

These are only a few excerpts from a long interview that I’ve done with Farhan. We shall be paying a tribute to Dil Chahta Hai in a two part special feature on Bollywood Hungama as Farhan goes down the memory lane interspersed with some footage from the film. There will be 60 and 30 sec teasers of this feature that will start on BH from today. The first part of this feature will come on August 10th, the 10th anniversary of the release of Dil Chahta Hai. Hope you guys will like it.