Aparna Nair, famous as a stage performer, is making her debut in Tamil. Sources say that she has almost finished shooting her film titled Ethuvum Nadakkum. One of the main location for the film was in Cochin, Kerala.
Aparna has performed in many stage shows of actors like Mammootty and Mohanlal. The movie
is a love-story and will be seen in screens soon.
Showing posts with label Mollywood. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mollywood. Show all posts
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Monday, November 9, 2009
Genelia opposite Dhanush?
South India's tantalizing damsel Genelia is reported to be the heroine of Kollywood's upcoming remake king Dhanush's new film, a remake of super hit Ready (Telugu). Notably, Genelia was the heroine in the original version, directed by Srinu Vytla. This is the first time Genelia will share screen space with Dhanush.
Directed by Dhanush’s favourite director Mithran Jawahar, the Tamil version of Ready will be produced by Appa Rao and Ramesh. Director Mithran Jawahar will make some basic nativity changes and retain Sri Devi Prasad’s original music track. The film will start rolling soon.
Ready is the story of a final year engineering student. One of his friends falls in love with a girl, whose father arranges her marriage with some other person. So his friends kidnap the bride out of the marriage hall to arrange their marriage. However, Chandu's gang mistakenly rushes into another marriage hall and kidnaps Pooja. Later, Chandu falls in love with Pooja. What happens next makes up the rest of the film.
Directed by Dhanush’s favourite director Mithran Jawahar, the Tamil version of Ready will be produced by Appa Rao and Ramesh. Director Mithran Jawahar will make some basic nativity changes and retain Sri Devi Prasad’s original music track. The film will start rolling soon.
Ready is the story of a final year engineering student. One of his friends falls in love with a girl, whose father arranges her marriage with some other person. So his friends kidnap the bride out of the marriage hall to arrange their marriage. However, Chandu's gang mistakenly rushes into another marriage hall and kidnaps Pooja. Later, Chandu falls in love with Pooja. What happens next makes up the rest of the film.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Kalabhavan Mani in 'Yanthram'
The versatile and talented Kalabhavan Mani is a popular Malayalam actor who has impressed many in other languages as well. He is known for his talented performance and his mimicry. Many in Tollywood still remember him for his role in 'Gemini' which starred Venkatesh in the lead.
According to reports, he has been roped in for 'Yanthram'. This flick being directed by Shankar is the talk of the town since it stars superstar Rajnikanth in the lead. It also stars Aishwarya Rai as the female lead.
The shooting has been going on at fast pace with a huge budget but then it is not sure as to what is the role that Kalabhavan would be seen in.
According to reports, he has been roped in for 'Yanthram'. This flick being directed by Shankar is the talk of the town since it stars superstar Rajnikanth in the lead. It also stars Aishwarya Rai as the female lead.
The shooting has been going on at fast pace with a huge budget but then it is not sure as to what is the role that Kalabhavan would be seen in.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
I blasted Priyadarshan: Prakash Raj
Prakash Raj, the 'Chellam' of Tamil cinema, is on cloud nine. The actor, who won a National Award for his role of Vengadam, a humble silk weaver in Priyadarshan's 'Kanchivaram', has swept aside the likes of Shah Rukh and Aamir Khans in the race.
"When Priyadarshan narrated the story, I was shaken and stirred. My hands were shivering, I was in tears and I simply walked out. After a cup of coffee, I was able to call him and blasted him for keeping the story to himself for 12 years," he says.
Interestingly, the actor did not take any money for the film. "It was a painful role. It was mind blowing professionally as well as personally. I had to unlearn all that I had to learnt as an actor," he says.
On winning the National Award, he says, "all credit should go to Priyadarshan and his team. He was hitherto called as commercial filmmaker. Had he wanted, he could have gone ahead and done some commercial ventures and made enough money. But he had the guts and conviction to do meaningful movie. I dedicate this award to Priyan, our art-director Sabu Cyril and cinematographer Thiru".
Saying that the award has encouraged him to do more realistic movies, Prakash adds: "It is what my production house 'Duet Movies' is striving for. The joy of doing such films is great. I want my contemporaries in the industry to experience it".
"When Priyadarshan narrated the story, I was shaken and stirred. My hands were shivering, I was in tears and I simply walked out. After a cup of coffee, I was able to call him and blasted him for keeping the story to himself for 12 years," he says.
Interestingly, the actor did not take any money for the film. "It was a painful role. It was mind blowing professionally as well as personally. I had to unlearn all that I had to learnt as an actor," he says.
On winning the National Award, he says, "all credit should go to Priyadarshan and his team. He was hitherto called as commercial filmmaker. Had he wanted, he could have gone ahead and done some commercial ventures and made enough money. But he had the guts and conviction to do meaningful movie. I dedicate this award to Priyan, our art-director Sabu Cyril and cinematographer Thiru".
Saying that the award has encouraged him to do more realistic movies, Prakash adds: "It is what my production house 'Duet Movies' is striving for. The joy of doing such films is great. I want my contemporaries in the industry to experience it".
Priyan happy, Adoor double happy
Filmmaker Priyadarshan is thrilled with the fact that his 'Kanchivaram' has managed to won two National Awards-one in the Best Film category and the other for Prakash Raj (Best Actor).
He says: "People call me comedy director. Form now on, they can call me a ‘comical serious’ director. We made the movie with a purpose. All the artistes, crew and technicians gave their best effort and the result is here to see".
"Doing such films gives one immense satisfaction. When it is recognised with such awards, it motivates and encourages one more", he adds.
Malayalam filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan has won his seventh National Award. For 2007, he was adjudged the best director the movie 'Naalu Pennungal'.
"I am happy on winning the honour, my seventh overall and fifth for my direction skills," he says.
"When we made the movie we had no such aspirations. It was screened at various international film festivals and was welcome with glee and joy. The recognition goes on to prove that masses do accept movies that touch their heart and are close top reality", Adoor adds.
He says: "People call me comedy director. Form now on, they can call me a ‘comical serious’ director. We made the movie with a purpose. All the artistes, crew and technicians gave their best effort and the result is here to see".
"Doing such films gives one immense satisfaction. When it is recognised with such awards, it motivates and encourages one more", he adds.
Malayalam filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan has won his seventh National Award. For 2007, he was adjudged the best director the movie 'Naalu Pennungal'.
"I am happy on winning the honour, my seventh overall and fifth for my direction skills," he says.
"When we made the movie we had no such aspirations. It was screened at various international film festivals and was welcome with glee and joy. The recognition goes on to prove that masses do accept movies that touch their heart and are close top reality", Adoor adds.
Monday, September 7, 2009
This award proves all the naysayers wrong: Priyadarshan
Filmmaker Priyadarshan whose social drama Kanchivaram bagged two awards at the 55th National Awards including the nod for the Best Film, says that the recognition has proved his detractors wrong.
The filmmaker, who is known for his commercial superhits like Hera Pheri and Hungama, is delighted with his first national award.
"It has to feel great, because I am a commercial filmaker and it proves those wrong who though I could do nothing but comedies," the filmmaker said.
Priyadarshan's Kanchivaram a period drama revolving around the weaver community of the famous temple town in Tamil Nadu, also won for actor Prakash Raj, the National award for the Best Actor.
The movie, which was premiered last year at the Toronto International Film Festival, is set in the 1920s and revolves around the life of a weaver who finds himself in the middle of communist movement in the state.
The Malayalam director is also pleased about the fact that he beat off competition from none other than film legend Adoor Gopalakrishnan, also from Kerala, who won his seventh National Award, the Best Director nod for his film Naalu Penungal.
"Adoor is a legend and the fact that I will receive an award in the same ceremony itself is a thrilling thing. And to top it off I also beat him as a competitor, What could be better," says Priyadarshan who said that the awards came as a surprise.
"I was not surprised by Prakash's win, because he was superb in his role, but mine came as a bit of a surprise. I make films to make people laugh and this was a completely different film and I had my doubts whether it will pay off," said the director during a television interview.
Priyadarshan who was born in Thiruvanathapuram is a close friend of Malayalam superstar Mohan Lal who was a junior of his at college and both entered the film industry at the same time.
Their partnership has produced many cult films including, Chitram and Kilukkam.
The filmmaker, who is known for his commercial superhits like Hera Pheri and Hungama, is delighted with his first national award.
"It has to feel great, because I am a commercial filmaker and it proves those wrong who though I could do nothing but comedies," the filmmaker said.
Priyadarshan's Kanchivaram a period drama revolving around the weaver community of the famous temple town in Tamil Nadu, also won for actor Prakash Raj, the National award for the Best Actor.
The movie, which was premiered last year at the Toronto International Film Festival, is set in the 1920s and revolves around the life of a weaver who finds himself in the middle of communist movement in the state.
The Malayalam director is also pleased about the fact that he beat off competition from none other than film legend Adoor Gopalakrishnan, also from Kerala, who won his seventh National Award, the Best Director nod for his film Naalu Penungal.
"Adoor is a legend and the fact that I will receive an award in the same ceremony itself is a thrilling thing. And to top it off I also beat him as a competitor, What could be better," says Priyadarshan who said that the awards came as a surprise.
"I was not surprised by Prakash's win, because he was superb in his role, but mine came as a bit of a surprise. I make films to make people laugh and this was a completely different film and I had my doubts whether it will pay off," said the director during a television interview.
Priyadarshan who was born in Thiruvanathapuram is a close friend of Malayalam superstar Mohan Lal who was a junior of his at college and both entered the film industry at the same time.
Their partnership has produced many cult films including, Chitram and Kilukkam.
Kanchivaram wins best movie at National Film Awards
Filmmaker Priyadarshan's Tamil film Kanchivaram, a period drama about silk weavers of the south, was chosen as the best movie at the 55th National Film Awards announced here.
Tamil actor Prakash Raj beat off competition from Bollywood actors Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan to bag the Best Actor award for his role in Kanchivaram, which depicts the lives of silk weavers of Kanchipuram during the pre-Independence era.
Raj had earlier won the Best Supporting Actor award for his Iruvar in 1998 and also a special Jury Award in 2003.
Veteran filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan has got the Best Director's award for his Malayalam film Naalu Pennungal. This will be his seventh national award.
He was named among the host of other winners of the National Film Awards announced for the year 2007 by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting here today.
Actress Umashree has bagged the Best Actress award for her performance in Girish Kasaravalli's Kannada film Gulabi Talkies, which depicts the transformation of the people of a small fishing village after their exposure to colour television.
The Best Child Actor award has gone to Sharad Goyekar for his role in the Marathi film Tingya.
Actor Darshan Zariwala has won the best supporting actor award for his role in Feroz Abbas Khan's film Gandhi- My Father, which is the only Hindi film to bag two more awards for Best Screenplay for Khan and Special Jury award.
Shah Rukh Khan-starrer Chak De India bagged the national award in the Wholesome Entertainment Category, while Aamir Khan-directed Taare Zameen Par won the award in Family Welfare Category.
Playback singer Shankar Mahadevan won the award for the song Maa in the film Taare Zameen Par, while Prasoon Joshi won the award for the Best Lyrics for the same song.
Filmmaker Sai Paranjpe headed the jury for feature film category, documentary filmmaker Ashoke Viswanathan chaired the jury for the non-film category and writer Namita Gokhale chaired the jury for best writing on Indian films.
The winners were selected from among 102 films and 106 non-feature films.
Sources in the ministry said though the list had been finalised last week, the announcement was deferred due to the death of Andhra Pradesh chief minister YSR Reddy.
Among other notable winners was Hindi film Frozen, which won the Indira Gandhi award for the Best Debutante Director for Shivajee Chandrabhushan. The film also won the best cinematography award.
Another Hindi film Dharm won the Nargis Dutt award for Best Feature Film on national integration. The film was directed by Bhavna Talwar and starred Pankaj Kapoor.
Foto (Hindi) won the Best Children's Film award, while Inimey Naangathaan (Tamil) won the Best Animation Film award.
Actress Shefali Shah won the Best Supporting Actress award for English film The Last Lear and Shreya Ghoshal won the Best Female Playback Singer award for the film Jab We Met. The movie also won the award for best choreography for the song Yeh Ishq Hai....
Om Shanti Om won the award for Best Art Direction. Malayalam film Naalu Pennungal won the Best Editing award.
Hindi film 1971 won the best audiography award and the Best Film in Hindi under the language specified in schedule VIII of the Constitution category.
In the same category, Bengali film Ballygunge Court won the best film award, while Gulabi Talkies was named the best Kannada film.
Ore Kadal won the Best Malayalam film, Nirop won the award for Best film in Marathi. Periyar got the award for Best film in Tamil, while The Last Lear won the award for the Best film in English.
Tamil actor Prakash Raj beat off competition from Bollywood actors Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan to bag the Best Actor award for his role in Kanchivaram, which depicts the lives of silk weavers of Kanchipuram during the pre-Independence era.
Raj had earlier won the Best Supporting Actor award for his Iruvar in 1998 and also a special Jury Award in 2003.
Veteran filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan has got the Best Director's award for his Malayalam film Naalu Pennungal. This will be his seventh national award.
He was named among the host of other winners of the National Film Awards announced for the year 2007 by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting here today.
Actress Umashree has bagged the Best Actress award for her performance in Girish Kasaravalli's Kannada film Gulabi Talkies, which depicts the transformation of the people of a small fishing village after their exposure to colour television.
The Best Child Actor award has gone to Sharad Goyekar for his role in the Marathi film Tingya.
Actor Darshan Zariwala has won the best supporting actor award for his role in Feroz Abbas Khan's film Gandhi- My Father, which is the only Hindi film to bag two more awards for Best Screenplay for Khan and Special Jury award.
Shah Rukh Khan-starrer Chak De India bagged the national award in the Wholesome Entertainment Category, while Aamir Khan-directed Taare Zameen Par won the award in Family Welfare Category.
Playback singer Shankar Mahadevan won the award for the song Maa in the film Taare Zameen Par, while Prasoon Joshi won the award for the Best Lyrics for the same song.
Filmmaker Sai Paranjpe headed the jury for feature film category, documentary filmmaker Ashoke Viswanathan chaired the jury for the non-film category and writer Namita Gokhale chaired the jury for best writing on Indian films.
The winners were selected from among 102 films and 106 non-feature films.
Sources in the ministry said though the list had been finalised last week, the announcement was deferred due to the death of Andhra Pradesh chief minister YSR Reddy.
Among other notable winners was Hindi film Frozen, which won the Indira Gandhi award for the Best Debutante Director for Shivajee Chandrabhushan. The film also won the best cinematography award.
Another Hindi film Dharm won the Nargis Dutt award for Best Feature Film on national integration. The film was directed by Bhavna Talwar and starred Pankaj Kapoor.
Foto (Hindi) won the Best Children's Film award, while Inimey Naangathaan (Tamil) won the Best Animation Film award.
Actress Shefali Shah won the Best Supporting Actress award for English film The Last Lear and Shreya Ghoshal won the Best Female Playback Singer award for the film Jab We Met. The movie also won the award for best choreography for the song Yeh Ishq Hai....
Om Shanti Om won the award for Best Art Direction. Malayalam film Naalu Pennungal won the Best Editing award.
Hindi film 1971 won the best audiography award and the Best Film in Hindi under the language specified in schedule VIII of the Constitution category.
In the same category, Bengali film Ballygunge Court won the best film award, while Gulabi Talkies was named the best Kannada film.
Ore Kadal won the Best Malayalam film, Nirop won the award for Best film in Marathi. Periyar got the award for Best film in Tamil, while The Last Lear won the award for the Best film in English.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Kollywood gods’ pay packs get bigger despite slump
At a time when most employees in corporate India are happy to forego salary increases just as long as they can keep their jobs, the pay
packets of top movie stars in Tamil filmdom are something of an anachronism. In 2005, Vijay was paid Rs 3 crore for starring in the hugely successful ‘Sivakasi.’ Another blockbuster followed the next year in the form of ‘Pokkiri.’
But since then, he has hit a rough patch with consecutive box-office flops in ‘Azhagiya Tamizh Magan’ (2007), ‘Kuruvi’ (2008) and ‘Villu’ (2009). If you think the actor is due for a pay cut, you are mistaken.
The ‘Ilaya Thalapathy,’ or ‘young commander’ to followers, is said to be taking home a cool Rs 6-7 crore plus distribution rights for Chennai city for his forthcoming ‘Vettaikaran,’ produced by M Balasubramaniam and B Gurunath Meyyappan. Ajith is taking a leaf out of superstar Rajnikanth’s book.
The actor, busy shooting for ‘Asal’ in Malaysia, is said be charging Rs 5-6 crore plus a 30% share in profits from the sale of rights (including, distribution, satellite and international rights) for his next movie. In an industry where top actors are few and far between and most not compromising on the pay front, producers have to select from a handful of them at the top or settle for niche actors. They can’t do much to change the situation, but at least they can grumble about it.
The main target of their ire is the production houses run by corporates, those such as Pyramid Saimira, Ayngaran International, UTV Movies and Moser Baer. They are accused of knowing little about the local market or ruling rates and spoiling the production culture in the Tamil movie industry.
“Corporates pay much higher than current market rates to secure bulk dates from artistes and technicians, artificially pushing prices northwards,” a leading producer (whose movie is set to release in the next couple of months) told ET on condition of anonymity.
He cited movies where the leading men were paid more than a fourth of the total budget only for them to flop at the box office. Some producers are of the view that actors’ current rates are exorbitant compared to the market available for Tamil films. The Tamil film industry churns out around 110-120 movies a year with a combined budget of about Rs 500 crore.
Sales are estimated at Rs 850 crore-Rs 1,000 crore, including international markets. “Salaries are very high these days. There are hardly any repeat audiences either. This, coupled with overall increase in production costs and long production schedules adds to the producer’s burden,” says K Muralidharan of Lakshmi Movie Makers, who is also secretary of the Tamil Film Producers Council.
Although the international markets, Malaysia, Singapore, US and parts of Europe, are slowing opening up to Tamil flicks, it does not justify the amounts top artistes charge these days, said another producer. Moser Baer COO C Dhananjayan, while agreeing that artiste salaries were at times “not justified for regional films,” felt they were a function of demand and supply.
Ajith, whose profit-sharing model has been welcomed by those who believe it reduces the burden on producers, thinks that how much an actor is paid “boils down to compatibility” between the negotiating parties. Vijay was not available for comment.
The Hindi movie industry, which also saw salaries for top actors skyrocketing in the past couple of years mainly due to corporates investing huge sums of money, seems to be seeing a correction.
Akshay Kumar is said to have charged Rs 30 crore for Kambakht Ishq but other A-list actors have started taking pay cuts, those aware of the situation say.
Artiste fees, that were just 10-15% of movie budgets in 2006-07, went as high as 60% in 2008. While current salary levels for Hindi film stars are rationalising at 30-35% of the budget with further scope for correction, it remains to be seen if Tamil moviedom will go the same way.
packets of top movie stars in Tamil filmdom are something of an anachronism. In 2005, Vijay was paid Rs 3 crore for starring in the hugely successful ‘Sivakasi.’ Another blockbuster followed the next year in the form of ‘Pokkiri.’
But since then, he has hit a rough patch with consecutive box-office flops in ‘Azhagiya Tamizh Magan’ (2007), ‘Kuruvi’ (2008) and ‘Villu’ (2009). If you think the actor is due for a pay cut, you are mistaken.
The ‘Ilaya Thalapathy,’ or ‘young commander’ to followers, is said to be taking home a cool Rs 6-7 crore plus distribution rights for Chennai city for his forthcoming ‘Vettaikaran,’ produced by M Balasubramaniam and B Gurunath Meyyappan. Ajith is taking a leaf out of superstar Rajnikanth’s book.
The actor, busy shooting for ‘Asal’ in Malaysia, is said be charging Rs 5-6 crore plus a 30% share in profits from the sale of rights (including, distribution, satellite and international rights) for his next movie. In an industry where top actors are few and far between and most not compromising on the pay front, producers have to select from a handful of them at the top or settle for niche actors. They can’t do much to change the situation, but at least they can grumble about it.
The main target of their ire is the production houses run by corporates, those such as Pyramid Saimira, Ayngaran International, UTV Movies and Moser Baer. They are accused of knowing little about the local market or ruling rates and spoiling the production culture in the Tamil movie industry.
“Corporates pay much higher than current market rates to secure bulk dates from artistes and technicians, artificially pushing prices northwards,” a leading producer (whose movie is set to release in the next couple of months) told ET on condition of anonymity.
He cited movies where the leading men were paid more than a fourth of the total budget only for them to flop at the box office. Some producers are of the view that actors’ current rates are exorbitant compared to the market available for Tamil films. The Tamil film industry churns out around 110-120 movies a year with a combined budget of about Rs 500 crore.
Sales are estimated at Rs 850 crore-Rs 1,000 crore, including international markets. “Salaries are very high these days. There are hardly any repeat audiences either. This, coupled with overall increase in production costs and long production schedules adds to the producer’s burden,” says K Muralidharan of Lakshmi Movie Makers, who is also secretary of the Tamil Film Producers Council.
Although the international markets, Malaysia, Singapore, US and parts of Europe, are slowing opening up to Tamil flicks, it does not justify the amounts top artistes charge these days, said another producer. Moser Baer COO C Dhananjayan, while agreeing that artiste salaries were at times “not justified for regional films,” felt they were a function of demand and supply.
Ajith, whose profit-sharing model has been welcomed by those who believe it reduces the burden on producers, thinks that how much an actor is paid “boils down to compatibility” between the negotiating parties. Vijay was not available for comment.
The Hindi movie industry, which also saw salaries for top actors skyrocketing in the past couple of years mainly due to corporates investing huge sums of money, seems to be seeing a correction.
Akshay Kumar is said to have charged Rs 30 crore for Kambakht Ishq but other A-list actors have started taking pay cuts, those aware of the situation say.
Artiste fees, that were just 10-15% of movie budgets in 2006-07, went as high as 60% in 2008. While current salary levels for Hindi film stars are rationalising at 30-35% of the budget with further scope for correction, it remains to be seen if Tamil moviedom will go the same way.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Govt reception for Rahman
Oscar award winner musical maestro A.R. Rahman was honored, with a reception by the State government here on Sunday. The function at Kadavu Resorts, which was conducted a few hours before his Jai Ho concert, was well attended with ministers like Elamarom Kareem, Benoy Viswam and MN K Premachandran waiting for hours for the Madras Mozart to complete his rehearsals before the concert.
Rahman who appeared in a blue jeans and white Kurta was presented with a memento, jointly by the three ministers, on behalf of the State Government. Rahman, in hi short speech expressed his happiness to be in Kerala, where he was longing to perform for the last 15 years.
Kozhikode Mayor M. Bhaskaran, District Collector P.B. Salim, P. Sathi Devi, MP P.V. Abdul Wahab, MP and chairman of Global Kerala Initiative – Keraleeyam (the organiser of the ‘Jai Ho’ show); Deputy Speaker Jose Baby; MLAs A. Pradeep Kumar and P.M.A. Salam and the former Minister M.K. Muneer were also among the celebrities who attended the function.
Rahman who appeared in a blue jeans and white Kurta was presented with a memento, jointly by the three ministers, on behalf of the State Government. Rahman, in hi short speech expressed his happiness to be in Kerala, where he was longing to perform for the last 15 years.
Kozhikode Mayor M. Bhaskaran, District Collector P.B. Salim, P. Sathi Devi, MP P.V. Abdul Wahab, MP and chairman of Global Kerala Initiative – Keraleeyam (the organiser of the ‘Jai Ho’ show); Deputy Speaker Jose Baby; MLAs A. Pradeep Kumar and P.M.A. Salam and the former Minister M.K. Muneer were also among the celebrities who attended the function.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Oscar man Pookutty studied under a kerosene lamp
Slumdog Millionaire undoubtedly has brought the best out of Kerala-born sound
engineer Resul Pookutty besides helping him win an Oscar.
Pookutty has also won a BAFTA and a Cinema Audio Society (CAS) award for best sound mixing for the film. Hailing from a small village of Vilakkupara in Kerala's Kollam district which didn't have electricity, he studied under a kerosene lamp.
He then went to the Film and Television Institute of India, Pune from where he graduated in 1995. The sound designer accepted the Oscar along with re-recording mixers Ian Tapp and Richard Pryke.
He made his debut in 1997 in Rajat Kapoor's Private Detective and went on to work in films like Sanjay Leela Bansali's Black, Gandhi My Father and Ghajini. His film credits include Saawariya, Zinda, Musafir and Amu.
He won the Zee Cine award for the best Sound Designer for Musafir while he won critical acclaim for his work in Black and won all the major awards in India.
engineer Resul Pookutty besides helping him win an Oscar.
Pookutty has also won a BAFTA and a Cinema Audio Society (CAS) award for best sound mixing for the film. Hailing from a small village of Vilakkupara in Kerala's Kollam district which didn't have electricity, he studied under a kerosene lamp.
He then went to the Film and Television Institute of India, Pune from where he graduated in 1995. The sound designer accepted the Oscar along with re-recording mixers Ian Tapp and Richard Pryke.
He made his debut in 1997 in Rajat Kapoor's Private Detective and went on to work in films like Sanjay Leela Bansali's Black, Gandhi My Father and Ghajini. His film credits include Saawariya, Zinda, Musafir and Amu.
He won the Zee Cine award for the best Sound Designer for Musafir while he won critical acclaim for his work in Black and won all the major awards in India.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
AR Rahman turns 43
AR Rahman turned 43 on Tuesday, as television and FM channels played special programmes to mark the day but the music maestro said the celebrations were low key due to Muharram.
Speaking at the South India launch of a mobile phone, Rahman said the day was usual for him and there were not much celebrations as the Muslims mourn during the month of Muharram.
Rahman is an inspiration for many. For instance, acclaimed singer Sukhwinder Singh gives the credit of his success to the composer.
“Rahman has been a catalyst in my success because when everyone turned me down and ridiculed my song Thaiyan thaiyan, he was the only one to believe in me. With a few changes in lyrics, he gave me my first big success in the form of Chaiyyan chaiyyan," Sukhwinder said.
With 11 Filmfare Awards to his credit, Rahman has achieved the status of legend in the lives of upcoming singers who dream to work with the composer, at least once.
“Rahman can easily be termed as the living legend in Bollywood. He is one of the few people who made Indian music popular internationally. It will be a dream come true if I get an opportunity to work with him,” said Abhijeet Sawant, who won the first season of musical reality show Indian Idol.
Said Harshit Saxena, runner-up of Amul Star Voice of India: “Rahman always does an excellent job. Everybody has a dream to work with him, and being a great fan of his, I possess the same.”
The musician got his first big break in Mani Ratnam's Roja and later Rahman composed for many films in the south. The film was dubbed in Hindi and the songs like Dil hai chota sa, came as a whiff of fresh air for music lovers who wanted more from this musical genius.
Winner of numerous prestigious awards, Rahman has recently been nominated for the Golden Globe Awards for his score in Slumdog Millionaire.
So what is in Rahman's music that clicks so well with audiences the world over?
“Rahman's music spells magic. We actually wait for his albums. You can see his soul, hard work and dedication in his songs. He never compromises with his style, which is so distinct,” shared Prajakta Shukre, a finalist of Indian Idol 1, who is currently singing for regional films.
Abhijeet Sawant added: “Rahman has never gone with formula music and is on a different level altogether. A calm and soft individual, he has a very different vision. His music is never dictated by popular demand. He always experiments and that is what people like about him.”
With his upcoming projects Delhi-6 and Blue, Rahman's fans will have no dearth of good music to hear and hum.
Speaking at the South India launch of a mobile phone, Rahman said the day was usual for him and there were not much celebrations as the Muslims mourn during the month of Muharram.
Rahman is an inspiration for many. For instance, acclaimed singer Sukhwinder Singh gives the credit of his success to the composer.
“Rahman has been a catalyst in my success because when everyone turned me down and ridiculed my song Thaiyan thaiyan, he was the only one to believe in me. With a few changes in lyrics, he gave me my first big success in the form of Chaiyyan chaiyyan," Sukhwinder said.
With 11 Filmfare Awards to his credit, Rahman has achieved the status of legend in the lives of upcoming singers who dream to work with the composer, at least once.
“Rahman can easily be termed as the living legend in Bollywood. He is one of the few people who made Indian music popular internationally. It will be a dream come true if I get an opportunity to work with him,” said Abhijeet Sawant, who won the first season of musical reality show Indian Idol.
Said Harshit Saxena, runner-up of Amul Star Voice of India: “Rahman always does an excellent job. Everybody has a dream to work with him, and being a great fan of his, I possess the same.”
The musician got his first big break in Mani Ratnam's Roja and later Rahman composed for many films in the south. The film was dubbed in Hindi and the songs like Dil hai chota sa, came as a whiff of fresh air for music lovers who wanted more from this musical genius.
Winner of numerous prestigious awards, Rahman has recently been nominated for the Golden Globe Awards for his score in Slumdog Millionaire.
So what is in Rahman's music that clicks so well with audiences the world over?
“Rahman's music spells magic. We actually wait for his albums. You can see his soul, hard work and dedication in his songs. He never compromises with his style, which is so distinct,” shared Prajakta Shukre, a finalist of Indian Idol 1, who is currently singing for regional films.
Abhijeet Sawant added: “Rahman has never gone with formula music and is on a different level altogether. A calm and soft individual, he has a very different vision. His music is never dictated by popular demand. He always experiments and that is what people like about him.”
With his upcoming projects Delhi-6 and Blue, Rahman's fans will have no dearth of good music to hear and hum.
Toyota Camry, a ring of body-guards, Asin is quite a force
South Indian actress Asin Thottumkal is doing something which no other Bollywood actress has done before! This svelte beauty travels with a convoy of no less than four cars whenever she’s out doing promotional campaigns or public appearances.
Asin’s convoy includes two cars which have Kerala number plates, including her personal vehicle — a Toyota Camry. There are two other Mumbai cars which insiders say carry bodyguards.
Asin confirms the news saying, “Calling it a convoy would be an overstatement. But yes, I have a car in which I travel with my dad who also manages me. In another car I have my hair dresser, make-up man and other assistants. They go with me wherever I go.
I’m a little bit of a perfectionist, so I like them being around and overseeing things for me.” As for the other two cars spotted? “I think you saw some other cars when I was travelling for Ghajini’s promotions…I didn’t get them,” says Asin.
When we probed for more information, a source told us, “This (convoy) has been with her since she was in Mumbai. She is a big star down South and she always has her personal assistants with her. But the hiring of bodyguards is most probably from the production front. She doesn’t know the city too well. Ghajini has brought her into the spotlight and she’s become quite a buzzword here. Maybe the film-makers are worried about her security.”
Asin’s convoy includes two cars which have Kerala number plates, including her personal vehicle — a Toyota Camry. There are two other Mumbai cars which insiders say carry bodyguards.
Asin confirms the news saying, “Calling it a convoy would be an overstatement. But yes, I have a car in which I travel with my dad who also manages me. In another car I have my hair dresser, make-up man and other assistants. They go with me wherever I go.
I’m a little bit of a perfectionist, so I like them being around and overseeing things for me.” As for the other two cars spotted? “I think you saw some other cars when I was travelling for Ghajini’s promotions…I didn’t get them,” says Asin.
When we probed for more information, a source told us, “This (convoy) has been with her since she was in Mumbai. She is a big star down South and she always has her personal assistants with her. But the hiring of bodyguards is most probably from the production front. She doesn’t know the city too well. Ghajini has brought her into the spotlight and she’s become quite a buzzword here. Maybe the film-makers are worried about her security.”
Monday, December 22, 2008
Nayanthara is back in Tollywood
In a sudden turn of events, top heroine Ileana has been replaced by Nayanthara.
The buzz is that Ileana and her mother who was giving enough and more tantrums to the unit even before the shooting started, was asked to give back the advance that she had received.
Nayanthara who is director VV Vinayak’s favourite was roped in to replace Ileana. Nayantara who has just come out of a Tamil movie recently is in Kerala shooting for a Malayalam movie.
She has gone out of her way to accommodate this film for which she will be paired opposite NTR for the first time and with this film, Nayan hopes to bounce back in Telugu.
Remember that her dream was to make it big in Kollywood and after doing so, she is back to Tollywood where she has a huge fan base.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Happy Birthday Rajinikanth
His is typically the story that adorns the adage- From rags to riches. Rajinikanth, then known as Sivaji Rao began his service as a ticket collector in a local shuttle in Bangalore. But it is easy to envision the fact that though he handled a nondescript job, young Sivaji must have cast his innate charisma on a majority of the commuters in his bus line.
Apparently, when he was unearthed by the legendary K.Balachander and rechristened as Rajinikanth, it was the same magnetism that made an impression in the experienced director’s mind. Moonru Mugam was Rajni’s debut. Incidentally, an action-entertainer, the film took Rajini to great heights. Most of Rajni’s initial films happened to be double-hero starrers. He paired up with Kamal Haasan in Aval Oru Thodargadhai, Moonru Mudichu, Aboorva Raagangal.
However, since the actor played his part to perfection, his remarkable style and heroism began to attract the masses. His stunts, his body language, his dialogue delivery, even his romantics captured all kinds of viewers. Audiences cheered and screamed in delight whenever their favourite actor appeared on screen. And, all the appreciation raised his star-status. From ‘Style Mannan’, he became the invincible Superstar. As a matter of fact, till date, no performer has achieved such an iconic status in the industry. Such was the audiences’ fondness for the actor and his rise was truly spectacular. All Rajni films ran to packed houses, his film releases were celebrated as major events, his cut-outs were showered with milk and honey and adorned with a hefty garland strings comprising lovely and exotic flowers.
At the centre of all the fanfare and celebration stood Rajni the modest individual. Though he acknowledged the popularity and his fans’ adoration and chose scripts and designed his characters to primarily suit their tastes and expectations, the Superstar never altered his personality. An absolute professional at heart and spirit, he continued to remain as the same simpleton Sivaji. He remained approachable for his fans and prodded them to think for their own good yet continued to guide them in his own way. Disciplining and prompting them to progress in the right direction and never letting them falter, Rajni continues to be their mentor and godfather.
Following the magnum opus Sivaji directed by Shankar, Kuselan, a remake of the Malayalam film Katha Parayumbol scripted by his dear friend Srinivasan was Rajini’s most recent release. Needless to say, the responses to both the films prove the fact that still he is the ‘reigning raja’ of Kollywood. Even actors who are stars in other industries hold great appeal and reverence for Rajini. In fact, his powerful appeal and strong impressions go beyond just movies. His comments and statements in specific contexts have knocked rulers off their thrones, influenced leaders’ perspectives and toppled governments in the state.
Rajni’s family has always been one far removed from all the glitz and glamour. Rajni’s elder daughter Aishwarya is married to Dhanush, another hero in Kollywood; the couple have a one-year-old son named Yatra. His second girl Soundarya is into graphics and designing. She has set up her own company Ocher Studios in Chennai. Soundarya’s very first project is an animation movie Sultan which will feature the Superstar in the animates form. While Soundarya worked on the framework of Sultan’s hero, the Superstar participated in the shoot and performed taking his daughter’s directions.
Endhiran, with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is Rajni’s next. So many news and rumours about the movie and Rajni’s role fill the industry grapevine. Yet, when it releases, it will be another magnificent production in Rajni-Shankar combo. And at times like these, it feels so good just to discern the fact that the next Superstar movie will be here in a year to entertain and fascinate his diehard audiences and fans as it has for years till now.
Long live Rajni! Happy Birthday Thalaiva!
Apparently, when he was unearthed by the legendary K.Balachander and rechristened as Rajinikanth, it was the same magnetism that made an impression in the experienced director’s mind. Moonru Mugam was Rajni’s debut. Incidentally, an action-entertainer, the film took Rajini to great heights. Most of Rajni’s initial films happened to be double-hero starrers. He paired up with Kamal Haasan in Aval Oru Thodargadhai, Moonru Mudichu, Aboorva Raagangal.
However, since the actor played his part to perfection, his remarkable style and heroism began to attract the masses. His stunts, his body language, his dialogue delivery, even his romantics captured all kinds of viewers. Audiences cheered and screamed in delight whenever their favourite actor appeared on screen. And, all the appreciation raised his star-status. From ‘Style Mannan’, he became the invincible Superstar. As a matter of fact, till date, no performer has achieved such an iconic status in the industry. Such was the audiences’ fondness for the actor and his rise was truly spectacular. All Rajni films ran to packed houses, his film releases were celebrated as major events, his cut-outs were showered with milk and honey and adorned with a hefty garland strings comprising lovely and exotic flowers.
At the centre of all the fanfare and celebration stood Rajni the modest individual. Though he acknowledged the popularity and his fans’ adoration and chose scripts and designed his characters to primarily suit their tastes and expectations, the Superstar never altered his personality. An absolute professional at heart and spirit, he continued to remain as the same simpleton Sivaji. He remained approachable for his fans and prodded them to think for their own good yet continued to guide them in his own way. Disciplining and prompting them to progress in the right direction and never letting them falter, Rajni continues to be their mentor and godfather.
Following the magnum opus Sivaji directed by Shankar, Kuselan, a remake of the Malayalam film Katha Parayumbol scripted by his dear friend Srinivasan was Rajini’s most recent release. Needless to say, the responses to both the films prove the fact that still he is the ‘reigning raja’ of Kollywood. Even actors who are stars in other industries hold great appeal and reverence for Rajini. In fact, his powerful appeal and strong impressions go beyond just movies. His comments and statements in specific contexts have knocked rulers off their thrones, influenced leaders’ perspectives and toppled governments in the state.
Rajni’s family has always been one far removed from all the glitz and glamour. Rajni’s elder daughter Aishwarya is married to Dhanush, another hero in Kollywood; the couple have a one-year-old son named Yatra. His second girl Soundarya is into graphics and designing. She has set up her own company Ocher Studios in Chennai. Soundarya’s very first project is an animation movie Sultan which will feature the Superstar in the animates form. While Soundarya worked on the framework of Sultan’s hero, the Superstar participated in the shoot and performed taking his daughter’s directions.
Endhiran, with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is Rajni’s next. So many news and rumours about the movie and Rajni’s role fill the industry grapevine. Yet, when it releases, it will be another magnificent production in Rajni-Shankar combo. And at times like these, it feels so good just to discern the fact that the next Superstar movie will be here in a year to entertain and fascinate his diehard audiences and fans as it has for years till now.
Long live Rajni! Happy Birthday Thalaiva!
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Ashwathy: Fazil's latest discovery
Director Fazil, who is famous for having introduced some of the biggest names in films in South India, including superstar Mohanlal (Manjil Virinja Pookkal), Nadia Moidu (Nokketha Doorathu Kannum Nattu), Shalini Ajith (Ente Mamattukkuttiyammakku), Kunchacko Boban (Aniyathipraavu) and Nagma (Killer), is all set to introduce yet another face: Ashwathy Ashok.
Ashwathy, TV anchor and a final year graduate student at St. Theresa's College, Ernakulam, will be launched on the big screen with the upcoming Moss D. Samuel, a comedy entertainer starring actor Dileep in the lead. Reports said that this bubbly young actress was in fact Fazil's choice for his Tamil flick, which has yet to begin.
Ashwathy dons the role of Nandana, a bold yet sweet and lovable girl in this film which revolves around two thieves, Moss D. Samuel (Dileep) and Kunninmel Sankaran (Harisree Asokan). Other cast members include Baby Niveditha, Janardhanan, Sudheesh, Anoop Chandran, Krishna Kumar and Sudheer.
Veteran music director Ouseppachan will set music for lyrics written by Kaithapram. Camera is handled by Anandakuttan. Moss D. Samuel, shooting for which has already commenced, is expected to grace theatres on January 26, 2009.
Ashwathy, TV anchor and a final year graduate student at St. Theresa's College, Ernakulam, will be launched on the big screen with the upcoming Moss D. Samuel, a comedy entertainer starring actor Dileep in the lead. Reports said that this bubbly young actress was in fact Fazil's choice for his Tamil flick, which has yet to begin.
Ashwathy dons the role of Nandana, a bold yet sweet and lovable girl in this film which revolves around two thieves, Moss D. Samuel (Dileep) and Kunninmel Sankaran (Harisree Asokan). Other cast members include Baby Niveditha, Janardhanan, Sudheesh, Anoop Chandran, Krishna Kumar and Sudheer.
Veteran music director Ouseppachan will set music for lyrics written by Kaithapram. Camera is handled by Anandakuttan. Moss D. Samuel, shooting for which has already commenced, is expected to grace theatres on January 26, 2009.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Will Kollywood learn from Mollywood?
At a time when even two-hero subjects are a rarity in Tamil Cinema, the neighboring Malayalam film industry has gone several steps ahead to come out with a movie titled 'Twenty:20', which has all the artistes including Mammootty, Mohanlal, Jayaram, Suresh Gopi, Dileep, Prithviraj among others sharing the screen together.
Interestingly, the movie was produced by Dileep for AMMA and has been made at a shoe-string budget of just Rs 6 Crores. However, the film has managed to collect huge amounts at the box office. Fans of all the actors are reportedly relishing the film. Reports also indicate that collections are quite good in other places outside of Kerala.
Will Kollywood take a cue from Mollywood and make a film along the lines of 'Twenty:20'? 'With the industry suffering huge losses due to a series of flops, it is not a bad idea to come out with a film that stars all the big actors,' opine industry men.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Samida releasing on December 6th
Director Vadivudayan's much-talked-about film Samida (also referred to as Sameda) releases on December 6th
Director Vadivudayan's much-discussed Samida (also referred to as Sameda) releases on December 6th. Produced by S. Poornapriya, Samida is the first film to be shot completely in Kasi, the holy city for Hindus. Many are curious to know why it was shot there and does it have to do anything with sadhus like Naan Kadavul. Well, sadhus are the main highlight of this film too, but the film does not entirely concentrate on them. In fact, it has two parallel plots; the story of a thug who develops a conscience after falling in love with a beautiful girl and a battle between two religious factions. The film never compromises on the "commercial elements of Kollywood Cinema" while attempting a serious juxtaposition of terrorism and spirituality. Adequately filled with glamour, romance, action, Samida will definitely prove to be a good entertainer.
Renowned producer Sembian turned hero for this film, and the heroine is an attractive newcomer Tanusha. Cinematography by Srinivasa Reddy is one of the strong points of the film; he has captured the beauty of Kasi effectively. Director Vadivudayan's story and screenplay are the other strong points; he has the experience of earlier assisting renowned Mollywood director Shaji Kailash. Apart from writing the story and screenplay and directing this film, this multi-talented personality has also written its dialogues and songs. Music is by Indrajith, a talented newcomer.
Director Vadivudayan's much-discussed Samida (also referred to as Sameda) releases on December 6th. Produced by S. Poornapriya, Samida is the first film to be shot completely in Kasi, the holy city for Hindus. Many are curious to know why it was shot there and does it have to do anything with sadhus like Naan Kadavul. Well, sadhus are the main highlight of this film too, but the film does not entirely concentrate on them. In fact, it has two parallel plots; the story of a thug who develops a conscience after falling in love with a beautiful girl and a battle between two religious factions. The film never compromises on the "commercial elements of Kollywood Cinema" while attempting a serious juxtaposition of terrorism and spirituality. Adequately filled with glamour, romance, action, Samida will definitely prove to be a good entertainer.
Renowned producer Sembian turned hero for this film, and the heroine is an attractive newcomer Tanusha. Cinematography by Srinivasa Reddy is one of the strong points of the film; he has captured the beauty of Kasi effectively. Director Vadivudayan's story and screenplay are the other strong points; he has the experience of earlier assisting renowned Mollywood director Shaji Kailash. Apart from writing the story and screenplay and directing this film, this multi-talented personality has also written its dialogues and songs. Music is by Indrajith, a talented newcomer.
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