Film: Avatar (U/A)
Cast: Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, Michelle Rodriguez
Director: James Cameron
It took him 12 years (after Titanic)and many dreams to create this technological marvel and the long wait, I must say,was definitely worth it! Cameron kept himself occupied in the intervening years with underwater explorations, lending his name to several other movie productions, while nurturing this baby to completion. His coming back to the helm, as director with Avatar, is definitely a moment worth rejoicing. The story is basically a reverse of the aliens invading earth plot
Avatar, set in year 2154 has earthlings as the aliens invading a lush, beautiful and serene Pandora, a planet several light years away from Earth, hoping to mine it for its rich deposits of unobtanium - a much sought after energy source mineral that sells at several thousand dollars per kilo, on Earth. A paralysed Marine veteran confined to a wheelchair, Jake Sully (Sam Worthington), who was not supposed to be part of the Avatar project, is roped inwhen his scientist twin brother is killed. To add teeth to the story, there's a scientist Dr Grace (Sigourney Weaver) researching the planet and its species and the usual warriors led by Colonel Miles Quaritch (Stephen Lang), who are looking for all-out massacre while Parker Selfridge (Giovanni Ribbisi) retains the guiding influence. Matters are further complicated by the developing relationship between a fierce Na'vi beauty Neytiri (Zoe Saldana) and the virtualised Jake Sully.
The movie kicks off with glimpses of intergalactic spaceships, weightless crew members and avatars floating in liquid-filled cylinders. The story has shades of Mel Gibson's Apocalypto, dollops of philosophy, spiritualism and psycho-babble thrown in for added measure, but these elements never really get the full-on treatment. They are just relegated to the backburner, while the narrative gets fuelled into a brilliant fire by some astounding visuals of breathtaking majesty.
As a viewer, you are bound to be completely entranced by the technique that the story itself is almost rendered redundant. The detailing is exquisitely layered while the background story development is wonderfully crisp and believable. The Na'vi speak, the creatures inhabiting the planet, the flora and fauna, the history of the race, are all remarkably entrenched within the narrative. Not for a minute do you doubt the veracity of such a unique world. Even James Horner's background score and Leona Lewis' 'I See You' lends romance to the visual grandeur.
The technological transitions are seamlessly incorporated - live-action, CGI backdrops, animation, performance capture and post-production effects conjure up imagery that makes every frame look even more beautiful and exciting than the previous one. The 3D imagery has incredible depth and finesse and the action especially when seen on Imax 3D renders close-in experiences like never before. This is by far the most expensive, technically ambitious and superbly realized film ever made. James Cameron's creation simply boggles the mind with its amazing virtuosity and unalloyed beauty. He must be congratulated for having pulled it off so splendidly!
Showing posts with label Telugu. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Telugu. Show all posts
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Rush is one 3-D Avatar Bangalore city had not seen
Director James Cameron's 1998 film Titanic bagged 11 Oscars; with science-fiction epic Avatar, set for release in city theatres this Friday, will he score even better? That's the question Bangaloreans are asking, as they queue for tickets. Multiplexes and theatres in the city have been flooded with advance booking requests.
Vishal Vikram, manager, Priya Village Roadshow (PVR) said, "About 75% of the tickets have been booked till the weekend. For paid reviews, the tickets are already completely sold out. We are installing a three-dimensional screen only for the gold class; so the cost of tickets in that class will be higher -- Rs700 each for a weekday, and Rs1,000 for the weekend." Other screens at the PVR will be playing the movie on the two-dimensional screen, and you can watch the film there at Rs250 on a weekday and Rs450 on a weekend.
Owner of Urvashi theatre, Amit Gowda, said, "We have already sold 4,500 tickets for Avatar. We've received a tremendous response, and tickets here will cost Rs200-Rs250, and the tickets will come with some freebies too -- popcorn and coke."
Monish Nipani, unit manager, INOX, said, "About 95% of the first-day shows are booked; 80% of the tickets are already booked for the weekend shows. We will have one 3-D screen; cost of the tickets there will range from Rs120-350. We will also be providing a special glasses to our viewers. These will be sterilised and packed. We will be collecting Rs200 as a refundable advance for the use of these glasses, just to ensure their safety."
Amit Gowda, owner of Urvashi theatre, said, "For the first time, we will be getting the 3D screen from the US; we will also be providing what are called 'active shutter glasses' with the LCD crystalline glass, which will prevent bacteria from entering the eye. We are equipped to sterilize the glasses after each use."
Gowda added that at Urvashi, booking for the film opened on Tuesday, and nearly 30% of the tickets have already been sold for the first three days.
"We will be charging Rs100 extra for the 3D glasses," he said.
Don't let Avatar leave you poorer. Watch out that you return the special glasses you are provided for the 3-D effect in good shape. You might end up paying much more than the price of the ticket for a damaged pair of glasses--theatres are planning to impose a
fine of Rs2,500 for any damage. Urvashi theatre is even equipped with a device to identify the extent of damage.
The film will soon play in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu at city theatres. Meanwhile, it has already been nominated for four categories of the Golden Globe awards.
Vishal Vikram, manager, Priya Village Roadshow (PVR) said, "About 75% of the tickets have been booked till the weekend. For paid reviews, the tickets are already completely sold out. We are installing a three-dimensional screen only for the gold class; so the cost of tickets in that class will be higher -- Rs700 each for a weekday, and Rs1,000 for the weekend." Other screens at the PVR will be playing the movie on the two-dimensional screen, and you can watch the film there at Rs250 on a weekday and Rs450 on a weekend.
Owner of Urvashi theatre, Amit Gowda, said, "We have already sold 4,500 tickets for Avatar. We've received a tremendous response, and tickets here will cost Rs200-Rs250, and the tickets will come with some freebies too -- popcorn and coke."
Monish Nipani, unit manager, INOX, said, "About 95% of the first-day shows are booked; 80% of the tickets are already booked for the weekend shows. We will have one 3-D screen; cost of the tickets there will range from Rs120-350. We will also be providing a special glasses to our viewers. These will be sterilised and packed. We will be collecting Rs200 as a refundable advance for the use of these glasses, just to ensure their safety."
Amit Gowda, owner of Urvashi theatre, said, "For the first time, we will be getting the 3D screen from the US; we will also be providing what are called 'active shutter glasses' with the LCD crystalline glass, which will prevent bacteria from entering the eye. We are equipped to sterilize the glasses after each use."
Gowda added that at Urvashi, booking for the film opened on Tuesday, and nearly 30% of the tickets have already been sold for the first three days.
"We will be charging Rs100 extra for the 3D glasses," he said.
Don't let Avatar leave you poorer. Watch out that you return the special glasses you are provided for the 3-D effect in good shape. You might end up paying much more than the price of the ticket for a damaged pair of glasses--theatres are planning to impose a
fine of Rs2,500 for any damage. Urvashi theatre is even equipped with a device to identify the extent of damage.
The film will soon play in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu at city theatres. Meanwhile, it has already been nominated for four categories of the Golden Globe awards.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Another mind game in the offing
Films having psychological manipulation as the concept are not new in Tollywood. Be it Missamma, Nandanavanam or the recent Katha, such films have their niche market.
Yet another film on the subject is going to come before the audience. Titled Koffi Bar, the film stars Sashan and Biyanka Desai. It is simultaneously being made in Tamil and Kannada too. Produced and directed by Geetha Krishna of Kokila and Keechurallu fame, the film was launched in the month of January in this year, but took time to complete.
Then the director-producer said that the film will set a new trend and that it belongs to a separate genre. Reportedly, the film also stars Girish Karnard, Atul Kulkarni and others.
A multi-talented guy, Mr. Krishna is also scoring the music. Vanamali has written the lyrics. So, will Koffi Bar prove a break for Sashank?
Many can expect Geetha Krishna to become more popular with this one in the mainstream category, which so far has been limited.
Yet another film on the subject is going to come before the audience. Titled Koffi Bar, the film stars Sashan and Biyanka Desai. It is simultaneously being made in Tamil and Kannada too. Produced and directed by Geetha Krishna of Kokila and Keechurallu fame, the film was launched in the month of January in this year, but took time to complete.
Then the director-producer said that the film will set a new trend and that it belongs to a separate genre. Reportedly, the film also stars Girish Karnard, Atul Kulkarni and others.
A multi-talented guy, Mr. Krishna is also scoring the music. Vanamali has written the lyrics. So, will Koffi Bar prove a break for Sashank?
Many can expect Geetha Krishna to become more popular with this one in the mainstream category, which so far has been limited.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Kamal launched Gouthami's tele - serial!
Actor Kamal Hassan has launched a new TV serial Abhirami in which Gouthami makes her re entry! Produced by Abhirami Ramanathan under his banner Abhirami Mega Mall, Kutti Padmini plays the role of creative head in this serial. The grand inauguration of the serial was done Monday morning at a function held at the Abhirami Mega Mall. Kamal Hassan switched on the camera while Rama Narayan, president of the powerful producers council gave the first clap.
Present on the occasion were dignitaries Amirtham of Kalaingar TV, Khushboo, Kasturi Raja, Kutty Padmini, Kalpana, VC Guhanathan, TV actor Srinivasan, KRG, Kalaipuli Thanu and Kalaipuli Sekar amongst others. Abirami Ramanathan announced his future projects in small screen and explained why he had made the inaugural function in cinema puja style. "Earlier we had made serials like Devathai, Maayavi Mareechan and a few others but now we have decided to go into serials in a big way since the reach is enormous.”
Gauthami was happy about this re entry and says, "Many people have been asking me when I am not returning to acting and this is my step in that direction. More details of my role will be announced later." Kamal says that small screen is the best medium to promote cinema. The actor urged to implement the copy right plan in small screen too.
Present on the occasion were dignitaries Amirtham of Kalaingar TV, Khushboo, Kasturi Raja, Kutty Padmini, Kalpana, VC Guhanathan, TV actor Srinivasan, KRG, Kalaipuli Thanu and Kalaipuli Sekar amongst others. Abirami Ramanathan announced his future projects in small screen and explained why he had made the inaugural function in cinema puja style. "Earlier we had made serials like Devathai, Maayavi Mareechan and a few others but now we have decided to go into serials in a big way since the reach is enormous.”
Gauthami was happy about this re entry and says, "Many people have been asking me when I am not returning to acting and this is my step in that direction. More details of my role will be announced later." Kamal says that small screen is the best medium to promote cinema. The actor urged to implement the copy right plan in small screen too.
Prakash Raj to produce Radha Mohan's next project
Finally Prakash Raj has come to the rescue of his friend and director Radha Mohan. Yes.. he will produce his next directorial venture titled Payanangal. According to the sources, the film is a Tamil and Telugu bilingual thriller, loosely based on the book Buy Flight into Fear written by Devi Saran, who was the captain of the ill fated Indian Airlines flight IC 814 involved in the 1999 Kandhar hijack.
Nagarjuna will play the role of the pilot while Prakash Raj is going to do the role of Union Home Secreatary. The script has been changed to suit local nativity with the flight taking off from Chennai instead of Kathmandu, and some local flavour added.
Nagarjuna will play the role of the pilot while Prakash Raj is going to do the role of Union Home Secreatary. The script has been changed to suit local nativity with the flight taking off from Chennai instead of Kathmandu, and some local flavour added.
Kollywood discovers international film fests
It is pack up' call of a different kind from Tamil film directors. They are busy packing their bags, as they head towards Goa, Dubai and other venues where international film festivals are being held. Tamil film directors are turning into globetrotters.
"Directors and producers of Tamil films are waking up to the world of international film festivals, numbering 1300 in 80 countries, ranging from Albania to Zimbabwe," says director Ameer. And with good result. "International movie merchants are asking for Tamil film DVDS ," say directors Arun Vaidyanathan and Ameer.
Arun Vaidyanathan, whose film Achchamundu Achchamundu' has been selected for screening at the Indian Panorama of the Indian International Film Festival (IIFF). Director Pandiraj, whose film Pasanga' has also been selected for the Panorama, has entered the same film the Indian Film festival, Los Angeles . He is surfing the Net for information on other festival entry deadlines.
Yogi', featuring director Ameer, as the hero will enjoy a world premiere in the competition round of the Dubai International Film Festival. Ameer's earlier directorial ventures, Raam' and Paruthiveeran' made it to some of the prestigious film fests such as the ones at Cyprus and Berlin, and walked off with a couple of awards. Two other Tamil films, Aval per tamizhaci' and Rettachuzhi' have also made it to the screening round of the Dubai International Film Fest. (from November 15).
The recent trend among young filmmakers to take their films abroad, not merely to satisfy the Tamil diaspora, but also to gain a foothold in the competitive world of international cinema, and earn both revenue and respect for Tamil filmmakers is long overdue, says director Vasanth. "The world of cinema has seen a perfect marriage between commercial and parallel movies, and awareness over world markets and the importance of taking Tamil cinema to a world audience is growing, " says director S m Vasanth, who headed the jury for the international documentary and short films of the forthcoming IIFF.
"Global merchants are looking at the biographies and career graphs of our directors and this upswing is good for our cinema, " says producer K S Sivaraman, who has sent his Naan Kadavul' to the Cairo International Film Festival. Tamil cinema has had pioneers like Mani Ratnam in this field, but it is only now that other film makers are waking up to the outside world, beyond box office collections, says Pandiraj. Mani Ratnam himself is a regular at the festivals of UCLA, California, Berlin, Toronto, Venice, Amsterdam and Washington DC. "There is a huge demand for DVD rights of his films in many of those countries, " say a spokesperson of Madras Talkies, the director's production house.
"The benefits of being part of such events are huge, " says Ameer. "You can earn as much as you do in Indian markets, and the brand value of Tamil cinema has consistently gone up in recent years, " he adds.
While entering a film, directors and producers need to ensure quality sub titling, sleek editing (running time not above 2 hours) and keeping to the deadline. The cost of entering a festival may range between Rs 20, 000 to Rs one lakh, depending upon the work involved. While the top draw festivals do not offer money, others such as the Taipei and Washington film festivals may offer a film maker between $ 500 to $ 1000.
However, making it to such fests is still a part of the learning curve for many directors, says Pandiraj. "Many of us do not know how to package our films for a global audience as yet, " he adds. Ameer agrees. "It takes a lot of effort to send a film to a festival, and it is time policy makers appoint a separate jury at a national level to screen and send Indian films to such venues," he adds.
"Directors and producers of Tamil films are waking up to the world of international film festivals, numbering 1300 in 80 countries, ranging from Albania to Zimbabwe," says director Ameer. And with good result. "International movie merchants are asking for Tamil film DVDS ," say directors Arun Vaidyanathan and Ameer.
Arun Vaidyanathan, whose film Achchamundu Achchamundu' has been selected for screening at the Indian Panorama of the Indian International Film Festival (IIFF). Director Pandiraj, whose film Pasanga' has also been selected for the Panorama, has entered the same film the Indian Film festival, Los Angeles . He is surfing the Net for information on other festival entry deadlines.
Yogi', featuring director Ameer, as the hero will enjoy a world premiere in the competition round of the Dubai International Film Festival. Ameer's earlier directorial ventures, Raam' and Paruthiveeran' made it to some of the prestigious film fests such as the ones at Cyprus and Berlin, and walked off with a couple of awards. Two other Tamil films, Aval per tamizhaci' and Rettachuzhi' have also made it to the screening round of the Dubai International Film Fest. (from November 15).
The recent trend among young filmmakers to take their films abroad, not merely to satisfy the Tamil diaspora, but also to gain a foothold in the competitive world of international cinema, and earn both revenue and respect for Tamil filmmakers is long overdue, says director Vasanth. "The world of cinema has seen a perfect marriage between commercial and parallel movies, and awareness over world markets and the importance of taking Tamil cinema to a world audience is growing, " says director S m Vasanth, who headed the jury for the international documentary and short films of the forthcoming IIFF.
"Global merchants are looking at the biographies and career graphs of our directors and this upswing is good for our cinema, " says producer K S Sivaraman, who has sent his Naan Kadavul' to the Cairo International Film Festival. Tamil cinema has had pioneers like Mani Ratnam in this field, but it is only now that other film makers are waking up to the outside world, beyond box office collections, says Pandiraj. Mani Ratnam himself is a regular at the festivals of UCLA, California, Berlin, Toronto, Venice, Amsterdam and Washington DC. "There is a huge demand for DVD rights of his films in many of those countries, " say a spokesperson of Madras Talkies, the director's production house.
"The benefits of being part of such events are huge, " says Ameer. "You can earn as much as you do in Indian markets, and the brand value of Tamil cinema has consistently gone up in recent years, " he adds.
While entering a film, directors and producers need to ensure quality sub titling, sleek editing (running time not above 2 hours) and keeping to the deadline. The cost of entering a festival may range between Rs 20, 000 to Rs one lakh, depending upon the work involved. While the top draw festivals do not offer money, others such as the Taipei and Washington film festivals may offer a film maker between $ 500 to $ 1000.
However, making it to such fests is still a part of the learning curve for many directors, says Pandiraj. "Many of us do not know how to package our films for a global audience as yet, " he adds. Ameer agrees. "It takes a lot of effort to send a film to a festival, and it is time policy makers appoint a separate jury at a national level to screen and send Indian films to such venues," he adds.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Sana Khan eyeing Telugu
The sensuous beauty Sana Khan has already set the screens on fire in Kollywood. She is considered to have lot of sex appeal and made her mark opposite Simbu.
According to sources, she is already busy with few more assignments in Kollywood. Meanwhile she seems to be setting her eyes on Tollywood as well.
Sources indicate that she is in talks with some of the producers here and also with few big banners. The buzz is that she might get her breakthrough soon and a formal announcement would soon be made on that.
Let us wait and see how she is accepted in Tollywood by the audience. For now, it is good luck to Sana and her Tollywood entry.
According to sources, she is already busy with few more assignments in Kollywood. Meanwhile she seems to be setting her eyes on Tollywood as well.
Sources indicate that she is in talks with some of the producers here and also with few big banners. The buzz is that she might get her breakthrough soon and a formal announcement would soon be made on that.
Let us wait and see how she is accepted in Tollywood by the audience. For now, it is good luck to Sana and her Tollywood entry.
Tollywood loses out once again
Once again, the year 2009, will go down as an immensely forgettable one for Tollywood, as the local film industry draws a blank at the 55th National Film Awards.
Why have the National Awards been so elusive to an industry which churns out the biggest money-spinners in southern cinema? The last films to have bagged national honours were: Kamli (Best Feature Film at the 54th National Awards) and Hope (Best Feature Film for social issues at the 54th National Awards).
The Telugu entries for the 55th National Awards, Happy Days and Mee Shreyobilashi failed to make any impact on the jury. Earlier Telugu films have won the National Award in categories like best regional film, playback singing and music. Only three actresses Sharada (Nimajjanam in 1977), Vijayashanti (Karthavyam in 1990) and Archana (Daasi in 1981) have won the coveted Best Actor (female) Award. The top three honours — best film, best actor and best direction—has not come to Tollywood yet!
“It’s very unfortunate. We’ve been getting National Awards on and off, maybe it’s time to get them more frequently and in more important categories,” feels actor Venkatesh who’s won several state film awards and popular film awards. He says, he’ll make a “serious effort” to grab the big one. Filmmaker Neelakanta who won two National Awards including best screenplay for his debut Telugu film Show says, “It’s sad that our film industry didn’t win anything at the 55th National Film Awards. I think a potential award winning film should have a tight script and wholesome entertainment like Chak De! India or Taare Zameen Par.”
A couple of Tollywood bigwigs say that Malayalam filmmakers have lobbied for the national honours and ensured a richer haul of awards for Mollywood. But filmmaker Chandra Siddharth feels otherwise. “It’s better to dish out refreshing plots and experimental films than indulging in the blame game,” he confesses. He feels that at the “national level”, competition is “tough”. “I had no regrets when my film Aa Nalaguru didn’t impress the national jury while it bagged awards everywhere else,” he reasons. Supporting his view, filmmaker Mohana Krishna Indraganti also feels that Telugu films have “earned” enough “prejudice” by churning out sub-standard films for years. “We have to undo all that,” he says, going on to add that filmmakers should “introspect and see where the local film industry stands vis-à-vis Indian films and world cinema. It’s wrong to bifurcate films as art and commercial, since awards are given purely for ‘artistic’ excellence.” Indraganti’s Grahanam was the best film of a debutant director at the 52nd National Awards. “One can’t make a film on a social issue and force it on the audience,” he says.
Unfortunately, even the Telugu film audience seems to have no fascination for award-winning films. Even after bagging national awards, films like Kamli, Show, Grahanam, and Hope did not the set box-office on fire, unlike award-winning Malayalam and Tamil films which were well received. “Telugu audiences don’t watch award-winning films because they feel these films are ‘art-house’ and not entertaining enough,” laments filmmaker Arunprasad. He elaborates, “For the Telugu audience only entertainers
work, not realistic stuff.”
Seems like, Telugu filmmakers still have long way to go to before they get consistent national recognition.
Why have the National Awards been so elusive to an industry which churns out the biggest money-spinners in southern cinema? The last films to have bagged national honours were: Kamli (Best Feature Film at the 54th National Awards) and Hope (Best Feature Film for social issues at the 54th National Awards).
The Telugu entries for the 55th National Awards, Happy Days and Mee Shreyobilashi failed to make any impact on the jury. Earlier Telugu films have won the National Award in categories like best regional film, playback singing and music. Only three actresses Sharada (Nimajjanam in 1977), Vijayashanti (Karthavyam in 1990) and Archana (Daasi in 1981) have won the coveted Best Actor (female) Award. The top three honours — best film, best actor and best direction—has not come to Tollywood yet!
“It’s very unfortunate. We’ve been getting National Awards on and off, maybe it’s time to get them more frequently and in more important categories,” feels actor Venkatesh who’s won several state film awards and popular film awards. He says, he’ll make a “serious effort” to grab the big one. Filmmaker Neelakanta who won two National Awards including best screenplay for his debut Telugu film Show says, “It’s sad that our film industry didn’t win anything at the 55th National Film Awards. I think a potential award winning film should have a tight script and wholesome entertainment like Chak De! India or Taare Zameen Par.”
A couple of Tollywood bigwigs say that Malayalam filmmakers have lobbied for the national honours and ensured a richer haul of awards for Mollywood. But filmmaker Chandra Siddharth feels otherwise. “It’s better to dish out refreshing plots and experimental films than indulging in the blame game,” he confesses. He feels that at the “national level”, competition is “tough”. “I had no regrets when my film Aa Nalaguru didn’t impress the national jury while it bagged awards everywhere else,” he reasons. Supporting his view, filmmaker Mohana Krishna Indraganti also feels that Telugu films have “earned” enough “prejudice” by churning out sub-standard films for years. “We have to undo all that,” he says, going on to add that filmmakers should “introspect and see where the local film industry stands vis-à-vis Indian films and world cinema. It’s wrong to bifurcate films as art and commercial, since awards are given purely for ‘artistic’ excellence.” Indraganti’s Grahanam was the best film of a debutant director at the 52nd National Awards. “One can’t make a film on a social issue and force it on the audience,” he says.
Unfortunately, even the Telugu film audience seems to have no fascination for award-winning films. Even after bagging national awards, films like Kamli, Show, Grahanam, and Hope did not the set box-office on fire, unlike award-winning Malayalam and Tamil films which were well received. “Telugu audiences don’t watch award-winning films because they feel these films are ‘art-house’ and not entertaining enough,” laments filmmaker Arunprasad. He elaborates, “For the Telugu audience only entertainers
work, not realistic stuff.”
Seems like, Telugu filmmakers still have long way to go to before they get consistent national recognition.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
‘Aarumugam’ comes to Tollywood!!!!!
Noted director Suresh Krishna who has been known for his commercial ventures with good messages comes up with ‘Aarumugam’ this time. The film has the talented Bharath and the buxom beauty Priyamani in the lead and it will be released in Tamil and Telugu simultaneously.
Currently, it is in post-production stage and the dubbing process will be happening soon. There is also news that popular Telugu producer E V V Sathyanarayana has bought the Telugu rights.
This will be Bharath’s second film in Tollywood after ‘Premisthe’. The film also has the ravishing seductress Ramya Krishna doing a role that she did in ‘Narasimha’.
Currently, it is in post-production stage and the dubbing process will be happening soon. There is also news that popular Telugu producer E V V Sathyanarayana has bought the Telugu rights.
This will be Bharath’s second film in Tollywood after ‘Premisthe’. The film also has the ravishing seductress Ramya Krishna doing a role that she did in ‘Narasimha’.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
NRIs celebrate Chiranjeevi's birthday
The US-based Pravasa Chiranjeevi Organization NRI Praja Rajyam Party organized a grant birthday celebration of mega star Chiranjeevi in association with Seera Theatres Management and Blue Sky Cinema (distributors of Magadheera in USA) on Vinayaka Chaturthi on Sunday at Seera Theatres, Milpitas. More than 400 NRIs attended the celebrations, which started with big fanfare of attendees wearing Chiranjeevi T-shirts and entering Seera Theatres to view the super hit Magadheera starring Chiranjeevi's son Ram Charan Teja. During the intermission, a mega cake was cut by kids, singing the birthday song for Chiranjeevi.
Shaam’s Tamil movie to be remade in Telugu
Shaam started off with lots of promise in Kollywood but could not sustain the success he garnered. He made his Telugu debut with “Kick” and the movie went on to be a smash hit. Many feel that he has the opportunity to make up in Tollywood.
His last Kollywood venture “Anthony Yaar” was also average. However according to latest news, this Tamil flick will be remade in Telugu as well but with more masala. This will also star Shaam and Mallika Kapoor in the lead. Will this movie turn out to be successful in Telugu needs to seen when it arrives.
For now, Shaam is said to be quite happy with the response he has been getting from the Telugu folks.
His last Kollywood venture “Anthony Yaar” was also average. However according to latest news, this Tamil flick will be remade in Telugu as well but with more masala. This will also star Shaam and Mallika Kapoor in the lead. Will this movie turn out to be successful in Telugu needs to seen when it arrives.
For now, Shaam is said to be quite happy with the response he has been getting from the Telugu folks.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Devisri doing role in ‘Sayyata’?
The dynamic and talented music maker Devisri Prasad has always been the most sought after when it comes to composing tunes and songs. He has come up with some of the best hits in the Telugu circuit and later he also made his presence felt strongly in Kollywood too.
However, there is news that Devisri will also be seen making his foray as an actor and this would be happening for the film ‘Sayyata’.
Buzz is that Devisri will be playing the second male lead and has got about twenty minutes role in it. Incidentally, the film also has the charming beauty Charmee in it and this has raised few eyebrows.
But then, sources close to Devisri quash all this as rumors and said that he is currently focusing on his music only and not any acting.
However, there is news that Devisri will also be seen making his foray as an actor and this would be happening for the film ‘Sayyata’.
Buzz is that Devisri will be playing the second male lead and has got about twenty minutes role in it. Incidentally, the film also has the charming beauty Charmee in it and this has raised few eyebrows.
But then, sources close to Devisri quash all this as rumors and said that he is currently focusing on his music only and not any acting.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Hyd Chord-ial
That's the genesis of their debut album Samhitha brought to you by Times Music. But as they say, neither their coming together nor the samhitha or the bringing together of two distinct classical styles of carnatic and western music, would have been possible without the expertise of their guru Sangeetacharya Dr Vyzarsu Balasubrahmanyam, a classical musician, musicologist and composer of high repute.
So, what's their kind of fusion? It is a classical cohesion of elements as disparate as varnams, kritis and tillanas of carnatic music and western orchestration. And contrary to the popular belief that classical music has a limited appeal due to its complexity, this bold experimentation is both contemplative and energetic. The group in one breath claims it has caught the imagination of music lovers across tastes and age groups. And as Avinash the lyricist of the group puts it, "Our classical fusion tracks are entertaining to all classes of audience but particularly to young people."
And to put all doubt and cynicism to rest, all the eight members of the band are well grounded in both light and classical styles of music. And young as they are, they already have the distinction of releasing a private album or as Pranavi reels off, "Deepu, Harshika,Chaitanya and I have done solo and duets for many Tollywood films like Happy Days, Yamadonga, Sri Ramadasu, Notebook and Vinayakadu." No mean feat this!
The group has come together with the express purpose of showcasing local talent and to change the present trend in Tollywood of what they call "outsourcing talent" from other states. "We would like Tollywood to draw on local talent and would also like to take our music to the world stage, says Raghuram.
And if the overwhelming response to the concert and the presence of music stalwarts like MM Keervani, Koti and Dr Yella Venkateswara Rao is anything to go by, this may not be so distant a dream!
So, what's their kind of fusion? It is a classical cohesion of elements as disparate as varnams, kritis and tillanas of carnatic music and western orchestration. And contrary to the popular belief that classical music has a limited appeal due to its complexity, this bold experimentation is both contemplative and energetic. The group in one breath claims it has caught the imagination of music lovers across tastes and age groups. And as Avinash the lyricist of the group puts it, "Our classical fusion tracks are entertaining to all classes of audience but particularly to young people."
And to put all doubt and cynicism to rest, all the eight members of the band are well grounded in both light and classical styles of music. And young as they are, they already have the distinction of releasing a private album or as Pranavi reels off, "Deepu, Harshika,Chaitanya and I have done solo and duets for many Tollywood films like Happy Days, Yamadonga, Sri Ramadasu, Notebook and Vinayakadu." No mean feat this!
The group has come together with the express purpose of showcasing local talent and to change the present trend in Tollywood of what they call "outsourcing talent" from other states. "We would like Tollywood to draw on local talent and would also like to take our music to the world stage, says Raghuram.
And if the overwhelming response to the concert and the presence of music stalwarts like MM Keervani, Koti and Dr Yella Venkateswara Rao is anything to go by, this may not be so distant a dream!
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.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Tollywood’s Peace Procession On Dec 14
The president of Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce, KS Rama Rao organized a press meet today on 11th Dec, to brief the press about a peace procession that has been planned. The entire Telugu cinema comes together for this event to condemn the Mumbai carnage and to express homage to the brave soldiers.
During the meet, he told that the procession will be taking place on Dec 14th. And members from every division of the film industry will be a part of it.
President of MAA Murali Mohan, President of Directors Association N.Shakar, Chief Secretary AP Film Employees Federation Venu, C.Kalyan, Kota Srinivasa Rao, Benarjee, Hema, Vijayanand, Kadambari Kirankumar, Vijayendar Reddy and other members participated in the meet.
During the meet, he told that the procession will be taking place on Dec 14th. And members from every division of the film industry will be a part of it.
President of MAA Murali Mohan, President of Directors Association N.Shakar, Chief Secretary AP Film Employees Federation Venu, C.Kalyan, Kota Srinivasa Rao, Benarjee, Hema, Vijayanand, Kadambari Kirankumar, Vijayendar Reddy and other members participated in the meet.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Lifetime achievement award for K. Balachander at IFFI 08
Eminent director K. Balachander, who added a new style to filmmaking, was bestowed with lifetime achievement award at IFFI 08
Eminent director K. Balachander, who added a new style to filmmaking, was bestowed with lifetime achievement award at IFFI 08. Do you know who handed over the award to him?! His own student Kamal Haasan, who is one the chief guests at IFFI 08! It was "the" picture-perfect moment. Imagine the surge of emotions they would have felt. There can be no more memorable and honourable moment for a mentor and his student than this!
K. Balachander entered Kollywood as a writer with great ambitions of becoming a successful director in the 60s. Soon, his talent saw him climb the ladder of fame and become a prominent personality in the film world. He is also responsible for discovering many of Kollywood's brightest stars, including Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth, and honing their skills.
It was an evening that both this guru and sishya will cherish forever.
Eminent director K. Balachander, who added a new style to filmmaking, was bestowed with lifetime achievement award at IFFI 08. Do you know who handed over the award to him?! His own student Kamal Haasan, who is one the chief guests at IFFI 08! It was "the" picture-perfect moment. Imagine the surge of emotions they would have felt. There can be no more memorable and honourable moment for a mentor and his student than this!
K. Balachander entered Kollywood as a writer with great ambitions of becoming a successful director in the 60s. Soon, his talent saw him climb the ladder of fame and become a prominent personality in the film world. He is also responsible for discovering many of Kollywood's brightest stars, including Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth, and honing their skills.
It was an evening that both this guru and sishya will cherish forever.
Nayantara in Paiya
Director Lingusamy stated that Nayan is very much part of the project
Director Lingusamy has thrashed all rumours that actress Nayantara is no longer part of his pet project Paiya, saying that Nayan is very much part of the project. The hero is Karthi, who is currently busy with Ayirathil Oruvan directed by Selvaraghavan. Karthi has disclosed that as soon as he winds up Ayirathil Oruvan, he will start shooting for Paiya.
Nayantara is basking in the glory of being known as the queen of South India and her hands are full with big budget projects. Karthi, on the other hand, is very careful in choosing films after his highly successful debut in Paruthiveeran. The film brought him fame, accolades and honours. He garnered the Filmfare Best Actor award and was nominated for the National Award (Best Actor) for his stunning performance in the film. Apart from Paiya, he has also signed another film, Neeyum Naanum.
Source : http://www.starboxoffice.com/kollywood/article/article.aspx?bid=2008/December/News_20081202_6
Director Lingusamy has thrashed all rumours that actress Nayantara is no longer part of his pet project Paiya, saying that Nayan is very much part of the project. The hero is Karthi, who is currently busy with Ayirathil Oruvan directed by Selvaraghavan. Karthi has disclosed that as soon as he winds up Ayirathil Oruvan, he will start shooting for Paiya.
Nayantara is basking in the glory of being known as the queen of South India and her hands are full with big budget projects. Karthi, on the other hand, is very careful in choosing films after his highly successful debut in Paruthiveeran. The film brought him fame, accolades and honours. He garnered the Filmfare Best Actor award and was nominated for the National Award (Best Actor) for his stunning performance in the film. Apart from Paiya, he has also signed another film, Neeyum Naanum.
Source : http://www.starboxoffice.com/kollywood/article/article.aspx?bid=2008/December/News_20081202_6
Richa Pallod boomerangs to Telugu
‘Nuvve Kavali’ was the movie that debuted actress Richa Pallod to the Telugu screens. Tarun played the hero in this movie, made in the direction of K. Vijaybhaskar and produced by Ramoji Rao on Usha Kiran Movies. Her first movie itself became a big hit and Richa became a popular heroine in Tollywood.
Afterwards Richa played opposite Tarun once again in 'Chiru Jallu', and with UdayKiran in 'Holi'. Both the films failed miserably at the box office and she packed her bags to her hometown Bombay.
Now she has boomeranged back to Telugu Cinema after a long gap to work with 'Vennela' team Raja and Manjari, who enacts the hero and heroines. Richa plays the second heroine. She aspires to make it big in Tollywood on her comeback. Hope her dreams come true this time.
Afterwards Richa played opposite Tarun once again in 'Chiru Jallu', and with UdayKiran in 'Holi'. Both the films failed miserably at the box office and she packed her bags to her hometown Bombay.
Now she has boomeranged back to Telugu Cinema after a long gap to work with 'Vennela' team Raja and Manjari, who enacts the hero and heroines. Richa plays the second heroine. She aspires to make it big in Tollywood on her comeback. Hope her dreams come true this time.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Low occupancy for films in Hyderabad
Telugu film industry, which is considered the second biggest in India after Bollywood, received the onslaught of the terror strikes in Mumbai. The occupancy in theatres of twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad showed a drastic dropping by more than 40 per cent since four days.
"Our film got released last Saturday. Collections in the first week are very important for any film. But, unfortunately there is a big fall in the number of people coming to the theatres. They are damn afraid of the terrorist strikes that happened in Mumbai. The effect is clearly seen," according to Saikiran Adivi, director of the film Vinayakudu
Producers say incidence of bomb blasts in the country is leaving Tollywood with massive losses. They maintain that whenever there is a terror strike in the country, it is resulting in the decrease of occupancy rate in the cinema halls. Blade Babji, the film starring Allari Naresh and directed by Devi Prasad received hit talk at the very opening day and the success streak continued till the day before the Mumbai terror. There is a sudden fall in the occupancy rate in the theatres showing the film. "Yes. The impact of Mumbai tragedy hovered on our collections. Whether the theatres initiated security norms or not, the fear psychosis among the audience is strong and it might continue for some more while. Definitely, it is a big shock to the producers, distributors and exhibitors," said its director Devi Prasad.
Mr. KS Rama Rao, the Andhra Pradesh Film Chamber of Commerce (APFCC) president, says that in the last five days, the Tollywood received a blatant shot in its face with the collections dipping down somewhere between 35-40 percent. He pointed out that particularly the women and children were not seen in the theatres. He sought the government to immediately launch measures to upgrade the security norms at all theatres and that alone would create confidence in the audiences. He said that similar was the scene in the neighboring states of Tamilnadu and Karnataka. He said that the effect was also felt in star hotels and other night clubs in the city.
"Our film got released last Saturday. Collections in the first week are very important for any film. But, unfortunately there is a big fall in the number of people coming to the theatres. They are damn afraid of the terrorist strikes that happened in Mumbai. The effect is clearly seen," according to Saikiran Adivi, director of the film Vinayakudu
Producers say incidence of bomb blasts in the country is leaving Tollywood with massive losses. They maintain that whenever there is a terror strike in the country, it is resulting in the decrease of occupancy rate in the cinema halls. Blade Babji, the film starring Allari Naresh and directed by Devi Prasad received hit talk at the very opening day and the success streak continued till the day before the Mumbai terror. There is a sudden fall in the occupancy rate in the theatres showing the film. "Yes. The impact of Mumbai tragedy hovered on our collections. Whether the theatres initiated security norms or not, the fear psychosis among the audience is strong and it might continue for some more while. Definitely, it is a big shock to the producers, distributors and exhibitors," said its director Devi Prasad.
Mr. KS Rama Rao, the Andhra Pradesh Film Chamber of Commerce (APFCC) president, says that in the last five days, the Tollywood received a blatant shot in its face with the collections dipping down somewhere between 35-40 percent. He pointed out that particularly the women and children were not seen in the theatres. He sought the government to immediately launch measures to upgrade the security norms at all theatres and that alone would create confidence in the audiences. He said that similar was the scene in the neighboring states of Tamilnadu and Karnataka. He said that the effect was also felt in star hotels and other night clubs in the city.
Ileana D'Cruz becomes the Yoga girl
In the days of Size zero mania, actress Ileana posed the most sought after figure ever since her first stint in movies. ‘Devadasu’ debuted Ileana which was a box office hit and she soared high with her very next film ‘Pokiri’ opposite Mahesh Babu. She became the heartthrob of many youngsters within a short span of time.
Presently, she is the busiest actress in Tollywood sharing screen space with Ravi Teja, Nithin, Vishnu and NTR. Ileana has now started preaching Yoga whenever she finds an opportunity. The story behind a naïve girl becoming the yoga girl is that she had started practicing Yoga from 29th November.
The slim and sleek actress has now gained a few pounds which makes her no way less appealing.
Presently, she is the busiest actress in Tollywood sharing screen space with Ravi Teja, Nithin, Vishnu and NTR. Ileana has now started preaching Yoga whenever she finds an opportunity. The story behind a naïve girl becoming the yoga girl is that she had started practicing Yoga from 29th November.
The slim and sleek actress has now gained a few pounds which makes her no way less appealing.
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