Mahesh, Saranya Mattrum Palar Gallery:
Sakthi, Sandhya In Mahesh, Saranya Mattrum Palar
P. Vasu's son Sakthi made his debut in 'Thottal Poo Malarum'. The movie did an average business at the box-office while Sakthi won accolades for his performance. Shakthi has now signed a uniquely titled movie, 'Mahesh, Saranya Mattrum Palar' opposite Sandhya. The movie will be directed by V.Ravi, a former associate of Lingusamy. Ravi has penned the story and screenplay as well. 'Mahesh, Saranya Mattrum Palar' will be produced by Kool productions and the music will be rendered by Vidyasagar. This movie is expected to hit the theaters in 2008.
Mahesh, Saranya Mattrum Palar Gallery:
Mahesh, Saranya Mattrum Palar Gallery:
Umrao Jaan (starring Rekha)
Umrao Jaan was one of the first Bollywood movies I'd seen, so I decided to revisit it the other day to see if my opinion had changed a year (and several Bollywood films) later.
Two things came out of this experience. First, I realized I didn't remember much about it all, because I sort of felt like I was viewing it for the first time. Second, I actually enjoyed and appreciated the film much more.
During my initial viewing of Umrao Jaan, I lost interest towards the middle of the movie. Not so this time. In fact, I was quite absorbed in Umrao's woeful life, from beginning to end. I don't know, maybe I wasn't used to the length of a Bollywood movie back then, because this time I actually thought the movie flowed together pretty well...the script stuck to the story and the ending wasn't dragged out. That's something to applaud in Bollywood!
And although I must have thought Rekha was a natural as Umrao Jaan, this time I was actually mesmerized by her performance. Technically, she's not one of my favorite actresses, but I definately have a girl-crush on her! She was Umrao Jaan...Every bat of her long black eyelashes, every alluring glance, every purse of her ruby lips...she had it down to a science. Rekha made the perfect courtesan as she bewitched men with her charm, drawing them deep into her web of seduction.
Naweb Sultan illustrates this for us with this smitten stare...
Wow, look at the intensity in his left eye! How could Umrao resist?
But all jokes aside, Farooq Shaikh portrayed Sultan appropriately. He was refined and composed, yet had a weakness for Umrao he was unable to shake. His role was minor in comparison to Rekha's, but his entrance in the film was a relief because I was beginning to fear her love interest would end up being Naseeruddin Shah's annoying character. And thank God it wasn't.
Besides the performances, I also couldn't resist taking a bunch of screenshots for this blog's banner...there's just something about the look of the film. So classic yet not forced. I could watch the movie just for the visuals alone.
I'm aware that Umrao Jaan's music is considered timeless in Bollywood. Since I don't speak Hindi, I have no right to argue, but I really only enjoyed them because of Rekha's dance moves.
Poor, poor Umrao Jaan. She had such a tragic and lonely life, and my heart just bled for her. Yet her character seemed so human to me because she was longing for love more than anything else. I'm so glad I decided to watch her story again, because I literally saw it in a whole new light. Note to Bollywood: Give me more stories with a female at the center!
Text © Copyright 2008 Nida Nazir
Bitten By Bollywood
Jab We Met
Dear Kareena Kapoor,
I owe you an apology.
Frankly, I never liked you very much. I really don't know why. It could have been the way you and SRK pawed at each other in that dreadful hotel scene in Don. Or maybe it was the voice in the back of my head during Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham that kept shouting, "Paris Hilton!" every time you were onscreen. Or perhaps I thought you were arrogant after reading some comments you made about your peers on Bollywhat.com.
Whatever the case was, one thing was clear- you were not one of my favorite actresses.
Until I saw Jab We Met, a darling romantic comedy that delighted me from beginning to end. This movie made me realize I was wrong. How foolish I was to judge you off of two performances and some quotes about Salman Khan (who I happen to also think can't really act)!
You were awesome as Geet! I didn't know you had it in you, Bebo! I could learn to love you like this. You were spunky, witty, adorable, full of life... You even did a good job at fake-crying! And your au naturale look really showed off your hidden gorgeousness. For the first time I didn't think about the Paris Hilton thing!
Bravo, Kareena. Thank you (and mostly your production crew) for giving us a romantic comedy that doesn't consist of the two leads hopping into bed together and falling in love later (if ever). Pay attention, Hollywood...
And although I may be making a hasty decision here based off of one viewing, I'm going to say this next comment anyways: Forget the mild similarities to Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge. I liked this movie even better than DDLJ.
If it wouldn't be too awkward for you (Because let's not kid ourselves, we've all read the stories), please pass this message onto your costar: His portrayal of Aditya was just as memorable. This character was exactly what I would want in a man. The guy had just been dumped, and may have moped around for most of the beginning, but he dropped his baggage in a flash once he saw what a gem Geet was. He never said to her, "Well, I've just been through a lot, so I need some time to heal before jumping into anything serious". No. He wasn't going to let this one get away. And I appreciated that there was no cliched "resurfacing" of his ex towards the end, forcing him to choose between her and Geet. In fact, she was never mentioned again after the love story started to kick in. Aditya was falling for Geet, and never once looked back at the woman who had left him. He never made her feel like she would be second best. Whoo-hoo! Now that's a man.
I'm glad you and your ex turned out Jab We Met before things got ugly. The world is a better place because of it, I'm convinced. Your cute little movie was so good, I've moved it onto my favorites shelf, right next to Kuch Kuch Hota Hai and Dil Chata Hai. It deserves to be there.
Well, Kareena, you did it. You managed to change my opinion about you and give me a new movie to love, all in one shot. Thanks again for the good work-- I'll be looking forward to your next films. In the meantime, I'll be recommending this one to anyone who will listen.
Oh! And one more thing...If you didn't want Shahid, you could have just passed him along this way. Seriously.
Text © Copyright Nida Nazir 2008 Link to Home
Aishwarya Rai In Rajnikanth's Robot
It is all official now, Aishwarya Rai Bachan has signed the mega movie 'Robot' opposite Super Star Rajinikanth! It is believed that the actress would be paid a sum of Rs.1.5 crore for this Sci-Fiction project directed by Shankar! This will be the highest salary ever received by an actress in the Indian film industry!
Prasanna's Sadhu Miranda Trailer
Movie: Sadhu Miranda
Language: Tamil
Cast: Prasanna, Kavya Madhavan, Abbhas, Karunaas, Kotta Srinivasa Rao, Manivannan, M.S. Baskar
Music: Deepak Dev
Story, Screenplay & Direction: Siddique
Production: Ajaychandran
Language: Tamil
Cast: Prasanna, Kavya Madhavan, Abbhas, Karunaas, Kotta Srinivasa Rao, Manivannan, M.S. Baskar
Music: Deepak Dev
Story, Screenplay & Direction: Siddique
Production: Ajaychandran
Sivaji 175 Days Video
Watch Sivaji 175 days function video:
Part 1:
Part 2:
Part 3:
Part 4:
Part 5:
Part 6:
Part 7:
Part 8:
Part 9:
Part 10:
Part 11:
Part 12:
Part 13:
Rajini's Speech:
Kalaignar's Speech:
Part 1:
Part 2:
Part 3:
Part 4:
Part 5:
Part 6:
Part 7:
Part 8:
Part 9:
Part 10:
Part 11:
Part 12:
Part 13:
Rajini's Speech:
Kalaignar's Speech:
Endhan Vaanamum Needhaan: Vaazhthukkal Lyrics
Movie: Vaazhthukkal
Language: Tamil
Cast: Madhavan, Bhavana
Direction: Seeman
Music: Yuvan Shankar Raja
Song: Enthan Vaanamum Neethaan
Singers: Haricharan, Mahathi
Lyricist: Na. Muthukumar
(Music)
Uhohohohoh Uhohohohoh Uhohohohoh Uhohohohoh
(Music)
(Male)
Endhan Vaanamum Needhaan
Endhan Bhoomiyum Needhaan
Un Kangal Paarthidum Dhisaiyil Vaazhgireney
Endhan Paadhaiyum Needhaan
Endhan Payanamum Needhaan
Undhan Kaalgal Nadanthidum Vazhiyil Varugireney
Un Pechiley En Mugavari
Un Moochiley En Vaazhvadi
Endhan Vaazhvadi ohohohoh
Endhan Vaanamum Needhaan
Endhan Bhoomiyum Needhaan
Un Kangal Paarthidum Dhisaiyil Vaazhgireney
(Music)
Ahahahahahaahaa Ahahahahahaahaa
Ahahahahahaahaa Ahahahahahaahaa
(Male)
Neenadakkumbodhu Un Nizhalum
Mannil Vizhum Munney Endhikkolven
(Female)
Un Kaadhalin Aazhamkandu Kangal Kalanguthey
(Male)
Unnudaiya Kaalthadathai Mazhai Azhithaal
Kudaiyondrai Pidithu Kaaval Seiven
(Female)
Hmm Unnaalindru Pennaanadhin Artham Purindhathey
(Male)
ohohohoh Un Pechiley En Mugavari
Un Moochiley En Vaazhvadi
Endhan Vaazhvadi ohohohoh
(Music)
Oreoru Vaarthaiyil Kavidhai Endraal
Uthadugal Unpeyarai Uchcharikkum
(Female)
Hmm Enperaithaan Yaarumkettaal Unper Solgiren
(Male)
Oreoru Udalil Iruidhayam
Kaadhalenum Ulagathilthaan Irukkum
(Female)
Neeillaiyel Naanillaiyei Nenjam Solluthey
(Male)
Un Pechiley En Mugavari
Un Moochiley En Vaazhvadi
Endhan Vaazhvadi ohohohoh
Endhan Vaanamum Needhaan
Endhan Bhoomiyum Needhaan
Un Kangal Paarthidum Dhisaiyil Vaazhgireney
Endhan Paadhaiyum Needhaan
Endhan Payanamum Needhaan
Undhan Kaalgal Nadanthidum Vazhiyil Varugireney
A friendly request: Please do not post the above lyrics in blogs, forums or other websites. Thanks for your co-operation!
Language: Tamil
Cast: Madhavan, Bhavana
Direction: Seeman
Music: Yuvan Shankar Raja
Song: Enthan Vaanamum Neethaan
Singers: Haricharan, Mahathi
Lyricist: Na. Muthukumar
(Music)
Uhohohohoh Uhohohohoh Uhohohohoh Uhohohohoh
(Music)
(Male)
Endhan Vaanamum Needhaan
Endhan Bhoomiyum Needhaan
Un Kangal Paarthidum Dhisaiyil Vaazhgireney
Endhan Paadhaiyum Needhaan
Endhan Payanamum Needhaan
Undhan Kaalgal Nadanthidum Vazhiyil Varugireney
Un Pechiley En Mugavari
Un Moochiley En Vaazhvadi
Endhan Vaazhvadi ohohohoh
Endhan Vaanamum Needhaan
Endhan Bhoomiyum Needhaan
Un Kangal Paarthidum Dhisaiyil Vaazhgireney
(Music)
Ahahahahahaahaa Ahahahahahaahaa
Ahahahahahaahaa Ahahahahahaahaa
(Male)
Neenadakkumbodhu Un Nizhalum
Mannil Vizhum Munney Endhikkolven
(Female)
Un Kaadhalin Aazhamkandu Kangal Kalanguthey
(Male)
Unnudaiya Kaalthadathai Mazhai Azhithaal
Kudaiyondrai Pidithu Kaaval Seiven
(Female)
Hmm Unnaalindru Pennaanadhin Artham Purindhathey
(Male)
ohohohoh Un Pechiley En Mugavari
Un Moochiley En Vaazhvadi
Endhan Vaazhvadi ohohohoh
(Music)
Oreoru Vaarthaiyil Kavidhai Endraal
Uthadugal Unpeyarai Uchcharikkum
(Female)
Hmm Enperaithaan Yaarumkettaal Unper Solgiren
(Male)
Oreoru Udalil Iruidhayam
Kaadhalenum Ulagathilthaan Irukkum
(Female)
Neeillaiyel Naanillaiyei Nenjam Solluthey
(Male)
Un Pechiley En Mugavari
Un Moochiley En Vaazhvadi
Endhan Vaazhvadi ohohohoh
Endhan Vaanamum Needhaan
Endhan Bhoomiyum Needhaan
Un Kangal Paarthidum Dhisaiyil Vaazhgireney
Endhan Paadhaiyum Needhaan
Endhan Payanamum Needhaan
Undhan Kaalgal Nadanthidum Vazhiyil Varugireney
A friendly request: Please do not post the above lyrics in blogs, forums or other websites. Thanks for your co-operation!
Partner
The best thing about watching Partner was that I finally got to see Govinda really dance. And, boy, can he ever! His fluid movements made even the mighty Salman Khan look insecure.
The movie was, however, a reminder to myself that I may not be fully ready for comedy a la Bollywood. I enjoyed Jhoom Barabar Jhoom because it used its emptiness to be funny, but Partner wasn't really that type of film. Although I did get a few good laughs (Salman Khan's car being vandalized, Govinda being bum rushed at airport security...), most of the time I thought the movie was just chaotic. Then again, maybe I can only tolerate Govinda's voice in small doses (as in Salaam-E-Ishq), because I tend to find it annoying after awhile.
Salman Khan's no comedic genius, either, but he actually did better than I anticipated. This could be because his character, Prem, was supposed to be played with certain airs, something I think comes naturally for him. It could also be because of the way he treated Lara Dutta's Naina when he found out she had a son. They were a package deal, and Prem was more than willing to accept them both. Finally, Bollywood decides to show single mothers some love, too! And considering my opinion of Salman, it was very refreshing to see his character react this way, particularly when he popped up at the mall and told Naina a man should be "a husband in the drawing room, a boyfriend in the bedroom, and a cook in the kitchen." I'm not going to argue with you there, Sallu!
It's probably already common knowledge that Partner is Bollywood's attempt to duplicate Hitch. I decided before I started watching that I wasn't going to compare the two, but as the movie progressed I realized that was nearly impossible. Some of the scenes were direct copycats, which hurt Partner because it set the bar too high for Govinda and Salman. If there was one thing I loved about Hitch, it was the smooth comedy between Will Smith and Kevin James. Salman and Govinda were fun to watch onscreen (especially during the songs), but weren't that good.
Not only that, but Partner was about 45 minutes too long and didn't flow the way Hitch did. Since there was nothing really unique that would make Partner stand out from Hitch (other than the single mother bit), there is absolutely no reason for me to ever watch Partner again. I'll just rent the better-made Hollywood version.
Ahh, but alas, the real question of Partner is what kind of fashion statement whoever dressed Salman Khan was trying to make. One minute he looked like a wannabe gangsta, the next he was wearing a Tweety shirt. And although the black wifebeater/red scarf looked nice, it was hardly something I would have chosen for a "Love Guru".
I do have one final reason to thank Partner, though. I finally got my payoff for sitting through Don: The Chase Begins Again, which was this: I "got" the whole Chota Don spoof.
So Partner wasn't a total waste of the two dollars it cost me to rent it.
Text (c) 2008 Nida Nazir Link to Home
The movie was, however, a reminder to myself that I may not be fully ready for comedy a la Bollywood. I enjoyed Jhoom Barabar Jhoom because it used its emptiness to be funny, but Partner wasn't really that type of film. Although I did get a few good laughs (Salman Khan's car being vandalized, Govinda being bum rushed at airport security...), most of the time I thought the movie was just chaotic. Then again, maybe I can only tolerate Govinda's voice in small doses (as in Salaam-E-Ishq), because I tend to find it annoying after awhile.
Salman Khan's no comedic genius, either, but he actually did better than I anticipated. This could be because his character, Prem, was supposed to be played with certain airs, something I think comes naturally for him. It could also be because of the way he treated Lara Dutta's Naina when he found out she had a son. They were a package deal, and Prem was more than willing to accept them both. Finally, Bollywood decides to show single mothers some love, too! And considering my opinion of Salman, it was very refreshing to see his character react this way, particularly when he popped up at the mall and told Naina a man should be "a husband in the drawing room, a boyfriend in the bedroom, and a cook in the kitchen." I'm not going to argue with you there, Sallu!
It's probably already common knowledge that Partner is Bollywood's attempt to duplicate Hitch. I decided before I started watching that I wasn't going to compare the two, but as the movie progressed I realized that was nearly impossible. Some of the scenes were direct copycats, which hurt Partner because it set the bar too high for Govinda and Salman. If there was one thing I loved about Hitch, it was the smooth comedy between Will Smith and Kevin James. Salman and Govinda were fun to watch onscreen (especially during the songs), but weren't that good.
Not only that, but Partner was about 45 minutes too long and didn't flow the way Hitch did. Since there was nothing really unique that would make Partner stand out from Hitch (other than the single mother bit), there is absolutely no reason for me to ever watch Partner again. I'll just rent the better-made Hollywood version.
Ahh, but alas, the real question of Partner is what kind of fashion statement whoever dressed Salman Khan was trying to make. One minute he looked like a wannabe gangsta, the next he was wearing a Tweety shirt. And although the black wifebeater/red scarf looked nice, it was hardly something I would have chosen for a "Love Guru".
I do have one final reason to thank Partner, though. I finally got my payoff for sitting through Don: The Chase Begins Again, which was this: I "got" the whole Chota Don spoof.
So Partner wasn't a total waste of the two dollars it cost me to rent it.
Text (c) 2008 Nida Nazir Link to Home
Don: The Chase Begins Again
My brother said it best: Don:The Chase Begins Again could have been a pretty good movie, if it had been directed, edited, scripted and subtitled better.
But it wasn't.
Not even close. Beth's post warned about the poor subtitles in the film, but nothing could have prepared me for this. In fact, I think there were more lines with grammatical errors than those that actually made sense. I found it so distracting that it was hard to stay focused on the film, which was rapidly losing its credibility with me, for other reasons...
I've been tempted in the past to make a comment about this but since I'm not a medical professional (just yet) I didn't think I was qualified to criticize. But I've now been pushed to the point where I just don't care... What is up with the improbable deaths in Bollywood? We have Pooja in
Hum Aaapke Hain Koun (slides down the stairs face up with no apparent neck injury, then appears to be conscious in the hospital, says a few lines and dies), Tiger's mother in Hum (dies almost instantly for no apparent reason after her husband is crushed to death), and now Ramesh who drowns with one simple push into a pool by Don. I realize its possible he just couldn't swim, but there was no follow-up, simply a cut to a teary Kareena Kapoor. No kicking, gasping for air, or screaming for help. If they can come up with a fighting scene in midair, they can take a little more time to kill off Ramesh properly.
Unfortunately, Ramesh's death was just the beginning. I found myself constantly having to piece together where we were going, what was happening, who this new character was, etc. (i.e. Arjun Rampal's entrance, what Kamini was doing in the club after her hubby had just died, why later Kamini was lying on the floor and letting the elevator door hit her repeatedly, and the list goes on and on). Like I said, I'm no professional, but I'm willing to bet this is what one would call a choppy screenplay.
Thanks to this movie, I actually found myself repulsed by one of my favorite actors, Shahrukh Khan. Take the hotel scene with Kareena Kapoor (who I have yet to find it in my heart to like anyways). The music, the jerky movements between the actors, and the poor photography gave that entire scene a really sleazy vibe, in my opinion.
Luckily, as the movie progressed, and Shahrukh portrayed Vijay's transformation from a gullible scaredy cat to a confident action "hero", amidst vivacious dancing and trademark SRK faces, I grew more comfortable with him as "the Don". By the end of the movie, I decided Shahrukh was not the problem here...I actually thought he did a pretty good job in his fighting sequences. I would give him another shot in an action role if he chose to make one.
The second half of Don was better than the first, but by the time we got there I just really wanted the movie to end. So here's where editing would have been nice.
The music was passable, but just barely. I didn't know most of the songs were from the original Don, and I don't know if that would have made a difference to me or not. The sets and costumes were nice enough, but for some reason, the dance sequences lacked all the fanfare that I love about Bollywood songs. The audio was blah, the colors were all muted (except for Priyanka's stunning coral dress) and the presentation was shoddy. Another thing that could have been done better, especially when you have competent performers like Shahrukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra.
Shahrukh and the gang gave it their best shot, but probably had no idea the end result would turn out like this. Makes me wonder what that must be like for actors. I mean, you work on a film that seems like it will turn out great, put your all into it, then get to the premiere and realize with a sinking heart that your movie didn't turn out the way you expected it to. But by then its too late. I could imagine that happening here. Like I said, the plot outline is actually pretty interesting, the sets for some of the songs had potential, and the actors did a great job in the fighting scenes. If I were an actress, I would have signed on to do it. It's what should have happened behind the scenes and didn't that turned this into a bad movie. And that must have been frustrating for the cast.
I just want to make it clear that I don't mean to sound snobby about this stuff, and I realize my Hollywood-grown attitude needs to adjust to certain things if I'm going to kick back and have a good time in Bollywood. But since I am recording my journey through Indian cinema, its necessary for me to write my honest reactions and issues as they arise. I know I'm going to run into many more misspelled words and unexplained deaths. And although that may be frustrating at times, more often than not it will be worth overlooking because the film is so good.
But then there will be times like these.
Text © Copyright 2008 Nida Nazir Link to Home
But it wasn't.
Not even close. Beth's post warned about the poor subtitles in the film, but nothing could have prepared me for this. In fact, I think there were more lines with grammatical errors than those that actually made sense. I found it so distracting that it was hard to stay focused on the film, which was rapidly losing its credibility with me, for other reasons...
I've been tempted in the past to make a comment about this but since I'm not a medical professional (just yet) I didn't think I was qualified to criticize. But I've now been pushed to the point where I just don't care... What is up with the improbable deaths in Bollywood? We have Pooja in
Hum Aaapke Hain Koun (slides down the stairs face up with no apparent neck injury, then appears to be conscious in the hospital, says a few lines and dies), Tiger's mother in Hum (dies almost instantly for no apparent reason after her husband is crushed to death), and now Ramesh who drowns with one simple push into a pool by Don. I realize its possible he just couldn't swim, but there was no follow-up, simply a cut to a teary Kareena Kapoor. No kicking, gasping for air, or screaming for help. If they can come up with a fighting scene in midair, they can take a little more time to kill off Ramesh properly.
Unfortunately, Ramesh's death was just the beginning. I found myself constantly having to piece together where we were going, what was happening, who this new character was, etc. (i.e. Arjun Rampal's entrance, what Kamini was doing in the club after her hubby had just died, why later Kamini was lying on the floor and letting the elevator door hit her repeatedly, and the list goes on and on). Like I said, I'm no professional, but I'm willing to bet this is what one would call a choppy screenplay.
Thanks to this movie, I actually found myself repulsed by one of my favorite actors, Shahrukh Khan. Take the hotel scene with Kareena Kapoor (who I have yet to find it in my heart to like anyways). The music, the jerky movements between the actors, and the poor photography gave that entire scene a really sleazy vibe, in my opinion.
Luckily, as the movie progressed, and Shahrukh portrayed Vijay's transformation from a gullible scaredy cat to a confident action "hero", amidst vivacious dancing and trademark SRK faces, I grew more comfortable with him as "the Don". By the end of the movie, I decided Shahrukh was not the problem here...I actually thought he did a pretty good job in his fighting sequences. I would give him another shot in an action role if he chose to make one.
The second half of Don was better than the first, but by the time we got there I just really wanted the movie to end. So here's where editing would have been nice.
The music was passable, but just barely. I didn't know most of the songs were from the original Don, and I don't know if that would have made a difference to me or not. The sets and costumes were nice enough, but for some reason, the dance sequences lacked all the fanfare that I love about Bollywood songs. The audio was blah, the colors were all muted (except for Priyanka's stunning coral dress) and the presentation was shoddy. Another thing that could have been done better, especially when you have competent performers like Shahrukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra.
Shahrukh and the gang gave it their best shot, but probably had no idea the end result would turn out like this. Makes me wonder what that must be like for actors. I mean, you work on a film that seems like it will turn out great, put your all into it, then get to the premiere and realize with a sinking heart that your movie didn't turn out the way you expected it to. But by then its too late. I could imagine that happening here. Like I said, the plot outline is actually pretty interesting, the sets for some of the songs had potential, and the actors did a great job in the fighting scenes. If I were an actress, I would have signed on to do it. It's what should have happened behind the scenes and didn't that turned this into a bad movie. And that must have been frustrating for the cast.
I just want to make it clear that I don't mean to sound snobby about this stuff, and I realize my Hollywood-grown attitude needs to adjust to certain things if I'm going to kick back and have a good time in Bollywood. But since I am recording my journey through Indian cinema, its necessary for me to write my honest reactions and issues as they arise. I know I'm going to run into many more misspelled words and unexplained deaths. And although that may be frustrating at times, more often than not it will be worth overlooking because the film is so good.
But then there will be times like these.
Text © Copyright 2008 Nida Nazir Link to Home
Endhan Vaanamum Needhaan Video Song
Watch Endhan Vaanamum Needhaan video song from the movie 'Vaazthukkal':
Iru Vizhiyo Siragadikkum: Video Song
Watch Iru Vizhiyo Siragadikkum video song from the movie Pirivom Sandhipom:
Ragasiya Kanavugal: Bheemaa Video Song
Watch Ragasiya Kanavugal video song from the movie 'Bheemaa':
Jhoom Barabar Jhoom
Surprisingly, a lot funnier than I thought.
If you're going to enjoy Jhoom Barabar Jhoom, you'll have to be able to tolerate a few things and accept it for what it really is-- A glitzy comedy that is only funny because its ridiculous, and a showcase for flashy choreography with some smokin' fashion.
In order to appreciate the humor in JBJ, you'll probably have to be somebody who likes "stupid-funny" films. This is the first one I've encountered in Bollywood, but in Hollywood we give movies such as The Big Lebowski and Happy Gilmore this label (These are actually classics, and JBJ isn't really on par with them, but if I'm trying to think of other comedies that made me laugh at the same types of shallow jokes, these are the first that come to mind). Since I happen to be someone who is easily amused by meaningless comedies, I got a few good laughs out of JBJ.
The source of most of that laughter was none other than Abhishek Bachchan. I was pleasantly surprised with how easily he slipped into a comedic role. Hard to believe this was the same uptight cop from Dhoom 2. He played a goofball so effortlessly, and for some reason I found it really hilarious when:
1)He said words such as "Huffy Bhai" and "beautifuler" and "whatchasayin".
2)His phone said "Hey, Handsome" when it rang.
3)He made a pouty face in the song "Ticket to Hollywood"...which, by the way, had me cracking up just because it is a song titled "Ticket to Hollywood". I will never forget him and Lara Dutta prancing around to those insanely silly lyrics. Classic!
4)Ouch. Why'd he have to call Pakistani movies crap?
I didn't think Bobby Deol and Preity Zinta's scenes were quite as funny as Abhi's and Lara's, but they got better in the second half. Just a little bit.
Another thing you'll have to keep in mind when watching this movie is that it has a lot of music. A lot. I happen to love Bollywood music, so this was right up my alley, but if you're the type of person that doesn't get why a Hindi movie includes songs in the first place, you may have an issue with the dance contest that seems like it never ends. It's three rounds(that feels like four) of nothing but beautiful costumes and slick choreography. Then again, both women look amazing, if that sparks any interest in you. I was particularly wowed by Preity Zinta throughout the movie, whose clothes and makeup were hot, hot, hot!
Speaking of makeup, because I used to work for MAC, I really, really appreciated the scene done in front of a MAC counter. It was just awesome to see Preity Zinta standing in front of a shelf stocked with lipliners similar to the one I stood in front of for five years. Ahh, once a MAC girl, always a MAC girl...
There is one more bonus to watching Jhoom Barabar Jhoom that deserves to be mentioned. "Bol Na Halke" is extremely pleasing to the eye...The colors, clothes, and photography are just breathtaking. In my opinion, the music itself isn't even as beautiful as the presentation is. (Not that its not a pretty song, it is, but when I listen to it on my Ipod it seems to have lost some of its sparkle). I liked Abhi and Preity's friendship jodi in KANK, but here their contrasting looks make them a really striking romantic pair, too.
On a personal note, I need to know the actress's name that played Alvira's younger cousin. Does anybody know? She just looks so much like my sister! Here are the pictures to prove it:
The actress:
My sister:
The actress again:
And my sister again:
To be honest, I don't know if these pictures do the resemblance justice, but if you met my sister you would know where I'm coming from on this...Ahh, and they say we all have a twin somewhere...Either that or Papi Nazir has some explaining to do!
Basically, because of its shallow story, JBJ could technically be called an "awful" film...But that's what stupid-funny comedies are all about(if you don't get that sentence, then this movie is probably not for you)! At least it was directed well and had subtitles that made sense, which is more than I can say for the other movie I watched today. If you like dancing, fashion, and a few cheap laughs, you'll likely get a kick out of Jhoom Barabar Jhoom.
I have to confess that I did.
Text (c) Nida Nazir 2008 Link to Home
If you're going to enjoy Jhoom Barabar Jhoom, you'll have to be able to tolerate a few things and accept it for what it really is-- A glitzy comedy that is only funny because its ridiculous, and a showcase for flashy choreography with some smokin' fashion.
In order to appreciate the humor in JBJ, you'll probably have to be somebody who likes "stupid-funny" films. This is the first one I've encountered in Bollywood, but in Hollywood we give movies such as The Big Lebowski and Happy Gilmore this label (These are actually classics, and JBJ isn't really on par with them, but if I'm trying to think of other comedies that made me laugh at the same types of shallow jokes, these are the first that come to mind). Since I happen to be someone who is easily amused by meaningless comedies, I got a few good laughs out of JBJ.
The source of most of that laughter was none other than Abhishek Bachchan. I was pleasantly surprised with how easily he slipped into a comedic role. Hard to believe this was the same uptight cop from Dhoom 2. He played a goofball so effortlessly, and for some reason I found it really hilarious when:
1)He said words such as "Huffy Bhai" and "beautifuler" and "whatchasayin".
2)His phone said "Hey, Handsome" when it rang.
3)He made a pouty face in the song "Ticket to Hollywood"...which, by the way, had me cracking up just because it is a song titled "Ticket to Hollywood". I will never forget him and Lara Dutta prancing around to those insanely silly lyrics. Classic!
4)Ouch. Why'd he have to call Pakistani movies crap?
I didn't think Bobby Deol and Preity Zinta's scenes were quite as funny as Abhi's and Lara's, but they got better in the second half. Just a little bit.
Another thing you'll have to keep in mind when watching this movie is that it has a lot of music. A lot. I happen to love Bollywood music, so this was right up my alley, but if you're the type of person that doesn't get why a Hindi movie includes songs in the first place, you may have an issue with the dance contest that seems like it never ends. It's three rounds(that feels like four) of nothing but beautiful costumes and slick choreography. Then again, both women look amazing, if that sparks any interest in you. I was particularly wowed by Preity Zinta throughout the movie, whose clothes and makeup were hot, hot, hot!
Speaking of makeup, because I used to work for MAC, I really, really appreciated the scene done in front of a MAC counter. It was just awesome to see Preity Zinta standing in front of a shelf stocked with lipliners similar to the one I stood in front of for five years. Ahh, once a MAC girl, always a MAC girl...
There is one more bonus to watching Jhoom Barabar Jhoom that deserves to be mentioned. "Bol Na Halke" is extremely pleasing to the eye...The colors, clothes, and photography are just breathtaking. In my opinion, the music itself isn't even as beautiful as the presentation is. (Not that its not a pretty song, it is, but when I listen to it on my Ipod it seems to have lost some of its sparkle). I liked Abhi and Preity's friendship jodi in KANK, but here their contrasting looks make them a really striking romantic pair, too.
On a personal note, I need to know the actress's name that played Alvira's younger cousin. Does anybody know? She just looks so much like my sister! Here are the pictures to prove it:
The actress:
My sister:
The actress again:
And my sister again:
To be honest, I don't know if these pictures do the resemblance justice, but if you met my sister you would know where I'm coming from on this...Ahh, and they say we all have a twin somewhere...Either that or Papi Nazir has some explaining to do!
Basically, because of its shallow story, JBJ could technically be called an "awful" film...But that's what stupid-funny comedies are all about(if you don't get that sentence, then this movie is probably not for you)! At least it was directed well and had subtitles that made sense, which is more than I can say for the other movie I watched today. If you like dancing, fashion, and a few cheap laughs, you'll likely get a kick out of Jhoom Barabar Jhoom.
I have to confess that I did.
Text (c) Nida Nazir 2008 Link to Home
Water
Any movie with a topic like this is bound to be disturbing. It's just a given. I knew I was going to sit through Deepa Mehta's portrayal of a widows' colony in 1938 India and want to throw things at my tv screen. I knew I was going to get so deeply invested in the characters that a knot would form in the pit of my stomach, making me want to stop watching, yet keeping me glued to the screen at the very same time.
Water was all that and then some. Heartbreaking, yes, but also very engrossing. It's the type of film I won't soon forget, both because of the eye-opening message and the compelling way the story was told. I've seen other movies depict oppression or inhumane treatment, with nothing but tragedy after tragedy occurring to the bitter end. Those movies left me feeling as if the characters would have been better off if I'd never tuned in, since the minute I started watching things went from bad to worse.
I'm not saying these films don't have a right to be this way--most of the time they are based on history or cruel realities in our world that don't need to be sugarcoated. But there is another alternative, and Deepa Mehta found it in Water. In this film, the characters did experience hardships one after another, but Mehta made the wise choice of giving us a glimmer of hope at the end, right when we need it the most. The burst of love by two of the main characters for Chuyia's well being in the final scene sealed the movie as being more than just another heart sinker.
Perhaps it was because she reminded me of my own daughter, but Sarala's performance as Chuyia was my favorite by far. From the opening scene I wanted to swoop in and carry this child away from her devastating life.
Lisa Ray turns out an exquisite performance as Kalyani, but John Abraham could have emoted more as Narayan. Two glaring examples of the latter (***that contain spoilers***)were 1)John's poor display of what was supposed to be grief in the scene by the river after Kalyani's death and 2)the blank expression on John's face when Chuyia is handed to him on Gandhi's train at the end. The bright note to this was that John's character was extremely likable and, of course, hopelessly dreamy. And I am happy to say that in the more recent Salaam-E-Ishq, he appears to have improved somewhat.
There were also many relevant references to Gandhi in Water. After recently watching the Benjamin Kingsley movie and reading a book on Gandhi's life, I'm struck once again on the impact this man made on India. He used the simple concept of love to tackle some of the world's most controversial issues. Because of the effects his teachings had on his followers, he reshaped the thoughts of many. Would a man like John Abraham's Narayan have taken the stance he did on the treatment of widows if not influenced by a man like Gandhi?
Because of Water's subject, I expected to have all of these reactions. I did not, however, expect it to be such a well done film, with deeply developed characters and an ending that shows the difference a little bit of love can make. This film will stick with me for a very long time. Earth and Fire are next.
Text (c) 2008 Nida Nazir Bitten By Bollywood
Water was all that and then some. Heartbreaking, yes, but also very engrossing. It's the type of film I won't soon forget, both because of the eye-opening message and the compelling way the story was told. I've seen other movies depict oppression or inhumane treatment, with nothing but tragedy after tragedy occurring to the bitter end. Those movies left me feeling as if the characters would have been better off if I'd never tuned in, since the minute I started watching things went from bad to worse.
I'm not saying these films don't have a right to be this way--most of the time they are based on history or cruel realities in our world that don't need to be sugarcoated. But there is another alternative, and Deepa Mehta found it in Water. In this film, the characters did experience hardships one after another, but Mehta made the wise choice of giving us a glimmer of hope at the end, right when we need it the most. The burst of love by two of the main characters for Chuyia's well being in the final scene sealed the movie as being more than just another heart sinker.
Perhaps it was because she reminded me of my own daughter, but Sarala's performance as Chuyia was my favorite by far. From the opening scene I wanted to swoop in and carry this child away from her devastating life.
Lisa Ray turns out an exquisite performance as Kalyani, but John Abraham could have emoted more as Narayan. Two glaring examples of the latter (***that contain spoilers***)were 1)John's poor display of what was supposed to be grief in the scene by the river after Kalyani's death and 2)the blank expression on John's face when Chuyia is handed to him on Gandhi's train at the end. The bright note to this was that John's character was extremely likable and, of course, hopelessly dreamy. And I am happy to say that in the more recent Salaam-E-Ishq, he appears to have improved somewhat.
There were also many relevant references to Gandhi in Water. After recently watching the Benjamin Kingsley movie and reading a book on Gandhi's life, I'm struck once again on the impact this man made on India. He used the simple concept of love to tackle some of the world's most controversial issues. Because of the effects his teachings had on his followers, he reshaped the thoughts of many. Would a man like John Abraham's Narayan have taken the stance he did on the treatment of widows if not influenced by a man like Gandhi?
Because of Water's subject, I expected to have all of these reactions. I did not, however, expect it to be such a well done film, with deeply developed characters and an ending that shows the difference a little bit of love can make. This film will stick with me for a very long time. Earth and Fire are next.
Text (c) 2008 Nida Nazir Bitten By Bollywood
List of Bollywood Films
Bollywood Films I've Seen So Far
(in alphebetical order)
A
Aa Gale Lag Ja
Amar Akbar Anthony
Awaara
Arth
B
Bachna Ae Haseeno
Black
Bommarillu
Bunty Aur Babli
C
Chandni
Cheeni Kum
Chokher Bali
D
Devdas
Dhoom 2
Dil Chata Hai
Dil Se...
Dil To Pagal Hai
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge
Don: The Chase Begins Again
Dor
Dostana
E
Earth
F
Fanaa
G
Ghajini
Gol Maal
Guide
H
Hum
Hum Aapke Hain Kaun original post, after rewatching
Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam
Hum Tum
Hum Tumhare Hain Sanam
J
Jaane Tu...Ya Jaane Na!
Jab We Met
Jhoom Barabar Jhoom
Jodhaa-Akbar
K
Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna original post, after rewatching
Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham
Kal Ho Naa Ho
Kismat Konnection
Kuch Kuch Hota Hai
L
Laaga Chunari Mein Daag
Laawaris (or Why I Watched My First Bollywood Movie)
Lagaan
M
Main Hoon Na
Maine Pyar Kiya
Mughal-E-Azam
O
Om Shanti Om
P
Partner
Pukar
Q
Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak
R
Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi
Rang De Basanti
S
Saawariya
Salaam-E-Ishq
Salaam Namaste
Satyam Shivam Sundaram
Shree 420
Silsila
Slumdog Millionaire
T
The Namesake
U
U Me Aur Hum
Umrao Jaan (Starring Aishwayra Rai)
Umrao Jaan (Starring Rekha)
V
Veer-Zaara
Videsh:Heaven On Earth
Vivah
W
Water
Welcome
Y
Yeh Vaada Raha
Bitten By Bollywood
(in alphebetical order)
A
Aa Gale Lag Ja
Amar Akbar Anthony
Awaara
Arth
B
Bachna Ae Haseeno
Black
Bommarillu
Bunty Aur Babli
C
Chandni
Cheeni Kum
Chokher Bali
D
Devdas
Dhoom 2
Dil Chata Hai
Dil Se...
Dil To Pagal Hai
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge
Don: The Chase Begins Again
Dor
Dostana
E
Earth
F
Fanaa
G
Ghajini
Gol Maal
Guide
H
Hum
Hum Aapke Hain Kaun original post, after rewatching
Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam
Hum Tum
Hum Tumhare Hain Sanam
J
Jaane Tu...Ya Jaane Na!
Jab We Met
Jhoom Barabar Jhoom
Jodhaa-Akbar
K
Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna original post, after rewatching
Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham
Kal Ho Naa Ho
Kismat Konnection
Kuch Kuch Hota Hai
L
Laaga Chunari Mein Daag
Laawaris (or Why I Watched My First Bollywood Movie)
Lagaan
M
Main Hoon Na
Maine Pyar Kiya
Mughal-E-Azam
O
Om Shanti Om
P
Partner
Pukar
Q
Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak
R
Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi
Rang De Basanti
S
Saawariya
Salaam-E-Ishq
Salaam Namaste
Satyam Shivam Sundaram
Shree 420
Silsila
Slumdog Millionaire
T
The Namesake
U
U Me Aur Hum
Umrao Jaan (Starring Aishwayra Rai)
Umrao Jaan (Starring Rekha)
V
Veer-Zaara
Videsh:Heaven On Earth
Vivah
W
Water
Welcome
Y
Yeh Vaada Raha
Bitten By Bollywood
Hum
I contemplated even writing about Hum, because I didn't feel excited enough to either praise or criticize it.
The 1991 Amitabh Bachchan starrer Hum ended up in my possession by accident when the lady at the video store misunderstood what I was asking for(I had requested Hum Tum starring Saif Ali Khan and Rani Mukerjee), and placed it in my pile of films to rent. I didn't notice the mix up until I got home, and was too tired to go back. Anyways, I reasoned, it couldn't hurt to watch it for the sake of the blog, and I needed to start somewhere on my list of Amitabh Bachchan movies(So far I've seen a pathetic two, not counting the newer ones or this one, but I promise to get going on this asap).
I'm assuming Hum probably wasn't a very good place to start. For one, it just wasn't my kind of movie. I don't like violence, I'm not a fan of the goofy side of Anupam Kher(I like goofiness, just not when he does it), and I thought the women's roles were a bit degrading(I'm really talking about Tiger's girlfriend Jumma's first scenes in the film, in which she is portrayed like a sexual object and teased by an army of men. And they got her wet in almost every one of those introductory scenes). Amitabh Bachchan was Amitabh Bachchan, as I've seen him so far. It was kind of neat to see a younger Govinda, but by the time he came into the picture I was already leaning towards boredom.
Considering that Hum really isn't my cup of tea anyways, I don't think I'm qualified to write a productive review on it. But I will say that I went into it with a completely open mind, willing to watch a bit of overdramatized kicks and punches so I could have something to say about it.
And it just didn't give me much.
Text (c) 2008 Nida Nazir Bitten By Bollywood
The 1991 Amitabh Bachchan starrer Hum ended up in my possession by accident when the lady at the video store misunderstood what I was asking for(I had requested Hum Tum starring Saif Ali Khan and Rani Mukerjee), and placed it in my pile of films to rent. I didn't notice the mix up until I got home, and was too tired to go back. Anyways, I reasoned, it couldn't hurt to watch it for the sake of the blog, and I needed to start somewhere on my list of Amitabh Bachchan movies(So far I've seen a pathetic two, not counting the newer ones or this one, but I promise to get going on this asap).
I'm assuming Hum probably wasn't a very good place to start. For one, it just wasn't my kind of movie. I don't like violence, I'm not a fan of the goofy side of Anupam Kher(I like goofiness, just not when he does it), and I thought the women's roles were a bit degrading(I'm really talking about Tiger's girlfriend Jumma's first scenes in the film, in which she is portrayed like a sexual object and teased by an army of men. And they got her wet in almost every one of those introductory scenes). Amitabh Bachchan was Amitabh Bachchan, as I've seen him so far. It was kind of neat to see a younger Govinda, but by the time he came into the picture I was already leaning towards boredom.
Considering that Hum really isn't my cup of tea anyways, I don't think I'm qualified to write a productive review on it. But I will say that I went into it with a completely open mind, willing to watch a bit of overdramatized kicks and punches so I could have something to say about it.
And it just didn't give me much.
Text (c) 2008 Nida Nazir Bitten By Bollywood
Kaalai Trailer
Movie: Kaalai
Language: Tamil
Cast: Silambarasan, Vedhika, Sangeetha, Nila
Direction: Tarun Gopi
Music: G.V. Prakash
Language: Tamil
Cast: Silambarasan, Vedhika, Sangeetha, Nila
Direction: Tarun Gopi
Music: G.V. Prakash
Dil Chata Hai
Just when I thought I couldn't love Bollywood any more than I already do, my friends at Jaman recommend a movie like Dil Chata Hai to remind me that I ain't seen nothing yet.
Dil Chata Hai is a rare story about three male friends and their personal journey into a little thing called love. It's not too sappy or melodramatic,but it has has its touching moments. There's just enough romance for the chick flick lover in you, but the real heart of the movie lies in the changing relationship between the three friends played by Aamir Khan, Akshaye Khanna, and Saif Ali Khan.
These guys have an onscreen chemistry that I haven't seen between three men in a long time(I'm thinking since Three Men and A Baby. Quite a different film, but...humor me). Their personalities are each so different and balance the story out to perfection.
Aamir Khan as Aakash dazzles me with his talent once again, but I'm sure that's no surprise to those of you who grew up watching his films. Saif Ali Khan as Sameer continues to make me laugh by his voice, facial expressions, and body language alone. But it was Akshaye Khanna(who has the cutest chin ever)as Sid, the artist with a heart of gold who falls for a divorced woman with a drinking problem, who really caught me off guard. I had no idea Bollywood had it in her to come up with a story like this, but give me more! Being a single mother(and half Pakistani herself, a culture where this is seriously frowned upon), it always bothers me that women are labeled so harshly once divorced or widowed, and I loved that Sid was man enough to stand up against the ridicules and jokes from his own best friend because he just didn't care what people would think. How many men would do that?
The feud that situation created between Aakash and Sid is also brought to a moving end when Aakash admits he was wrong and Sid forgives him wholeheartedly. I'm embarrassed to think back to some of the friendships I had, particularly when I was a teenager, that ended on a stupid argument which I had too much pride to repair. I'm glad Aakash grew up and realized that was not going to happen to him, and happy that Sid didn't let things change their friendship after that. Just another beautiful touch to an already perfect film!
I have to mention Dimple Kapadia as Tara(Sid's love interest). She's amazing. Simply amazing. I won't say anymore, but if you see the movie, I won't have to.
Wow. When I come across a movie like this, it reminds me why I write about Bollywood in the first place!
Text (c) Nida Nazir, 2008 Bitten By Bollywood
Dil Chata Hai is a rare story about three male friends and their personal journey into a little thing called love. It's not too sappy or melodramatic,but it has has its touching moments. There's just enough romance for the chick flick lover in you, but the real heart of the movie lies in the changing relationship between the three friends played by Aamir Khan, Akshaye Khanna, and Saif Ali Khan.
These guys have an onscreen chemistry that I haven't seen between three men in a long time(I'm thinking since Three Men and A Baby. Quite a different film, but...humor me). Their personalities are each so different and balance the story out to perfection.
Aamir Khan as Aakash dazzles me with his talent once again, but I'm sure that's no surprise to those of you who grew up watching his films. Saif Ali Khan as Sameer continues to make me laugh by his voice, facial expressions, and body language alone. But it was Akshaye Khanna(who has the cutest chin ever)as Sid, the artist with a heart of gold who falls for a divorced woman with a drinking problem, who really caught me off guard. I had no idea Bollywood had it in her to come up with a story like this, but give me more! Being a single mother(and half Pakistani herself, a culture where this is seriously frowned upon), it always bothers me that women are labeled so harshly once divorced or widowed, and I loved that Sid was man enough to stand up against the ridicules and jokes from his own best friend because he just didn't care what people would think. How many men would do that?
The feud that situation created between Aakash and Sid is also brought to a moving end when Aakash admits he was wrong and Sid forgives him wholeheartedly. I'm embarrassed to think back to some of the friendships I had, particularly when I was a teenager, that ended on a stupid argument which I had too much pride to repair. I'm glad Aakash grew up and realized that was not going to happen to him, and happy that Sid didn't let things change their friendship after that. Just another beautiful touch to an already perfect film!
I have to mention Dimple Kapadia as Tara(Sid's love interest). She's amazing. Simply amazing. I won't say anymore, but if you see the movie, I won't have to.
Wow. When I come across a movie like this, it reminds me why I write about Bollywood in the first place!
Text (c) Nida Nazir, 2008 Bitten By Bollywood
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