Immortals (Movie Review)

Freida Pinto, I'm afraid, is turning into a bit of a running joke within the English film reviewing community, given her incredible luck of working with acclaimed Hollywood filmmakers and then delivering extremely forgettable performances.

In Singh's Immortals, she gets the longest screen-time of her career as Phaedron, the virgin oracle who can predict the future as long as she remains 'undefiled' by man.

Her best moment in the film, however, is completely unintentional. As she tends to the wounded peasant warrior Theseus (Cavill), it's clear that a sex scene is in the offing.

Suddenly, within the blink of an eye, Pinto is underneath Cavill and talking about how she wants to be 'defiled' by him. Cut.

Emotions, dialogue and logic go out the window, and a number of us at the press screening collapsed into a fit of giggles at this jarring transition. No credit to Pinto; full credit to the Indian Censor Board and its ridiculous policies.

Singh, known for making visually stunning films like The Cell (2000) and The Fall (2006), helms this gorgeous looking disappointment (from the makers of 300, say the ads) which is let down by a wafer-thin storyline, poor characterisation and inconsistent acting.

Set in ancient Greece, it revolves around the evil King Hyperion (Rourke, one of the few actors who can make sadism look awesome) and his search for the legendary Epirus bow, with which he plans to destroy all of humanity.

This bow is the only weapon that can release the Titans, a mythical race of immortal beings that has been imprisoned by the Gods. Theseus, who has been unknowingly trained by the god king Zeus in mortal form (Hurt), is the chosen one to save humanity.

There is a stunning sequence towards the end, where the Gods clash against the Titans, juxtaposed against a fierce hand-battle between Theseus and Hyperion.

Singh's visual sensibilities come out all guns blazing here as body after body is poetically slashed open, and it is glorious to behold. After more than an hour of underwhelming battle scenes that aren't even a patch on 300, this scene is an admirable attempt at redemption.

Except it can't, especially when it's that late into the movie and your hero is no King Leonidas. Cavill tries hard, but he has neither the screen presence of Gerard Butler, nor a line of memorable dialogue to deliver. The other actors range from bad (Pinto, Evans as young Zeus) to serviceable (Dorff as the thief Stavros). Rourke delivers the only really enjoyable performance here.

Much of the movie is uninteresting, with a few set pieces proving to be of brief interest. Immortals looks gorgeous for the most part (barring a couple of sequences where the CGI looks less-than-impressive), but what it lacks is cohesiveness and style. Singh may reputedly be a visual genius, but he's no Zack Snyder.

Credit: Mid-Day.com

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Aishwarya gives birth to a baby-girl

MUMBAI: Bollywood actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has given birth to a baby-girl at the Seven Hills Hospital here, Geo News reported.

Aishwarya who is married to Abhishek Bachchan was expecting her first child and reported to have checked in Seven Hills Hospital Tuesday evening.

"IT'S A GIRL!," Abhishek, also a top actor, wrote on his Twitter account,
@juniorbachchan, without giving any further details.

Bachchan's father, Bollywood legend Amitabh, tweeted his joy at the new arrival: "A dada ji (a grandfather)...Ecstatic!", calling his new granddaughter "the cutest baby girl".

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Lady Gaga to adopt Indian kids‎?

Pop star Lady Gaga, who recently visited India, is reportedly planning to adopt three kids from an Indian orphanage and one from America.

Gaga has set up the not-for-profit group Born This Way Foundation to help people worldwide develop a new standard of care towards one another.

"...She's already set up her Born This Way Foundation in India and visited two orphanages while she was there last time.

"The plan is to adopt three Indian orphans before adopting more from around the world. She wants at least one American child, too," dailystar.co.uk quoted a source as saying.

"She's always wanted to adopt, ever since she was a little girl.

"She tells friends she feels she was put on this planet for a reason and since achieving fame she sees it as a sign that she has to give back the good fortune she's received," the source added.

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J.Lo is sex mad, claims toyboy lover

Jennifer Lopez's latest flame Casper Smart claims that the pop diva has an insatiable appetite for sex.

The 24-year-old dancer says that the 42-year-old Latin beauty has the body of a woman half her age, and is not afraid to use it.

"Casper said J-Lo has an amazing body and she's in better shape than any other girl he's ever been with," the Sun quoted a pal a saying.

"He said she's got the body of a 20-year-old. They're inseparable right now.

"It's just about sex - and no one's sure if it has much of a future. But he's having a good time finding out," the friend added.

Dancer Casper started working on the singer's world tour six months ago, but in recent weeks the pair have been getting to know each other on a series of dates.

They have been spotted partying in Las Vegas and leaving hotels after nights together.

A source close to Lopez has confirmed their relationship has developed into "a fun fling", adding: "They're dating and having a good time."

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Katrina is 'Chikni Chameli'

After becoming a rage with item number "Sheila ki jawaani", Katrina Kaif is set to gyrate to "Chikni chameli" in Karan Johar's remake of his father's 1990 critically acclaimed "Agneepath".

"Katrina Kaif is doing a full on item song in AGNEEPATH....its a total swinging number called CHIKNI CHAMELI....we shoot it in a week, " Karan posted on his Twitter page Tuesday.

The British-born actress danced to "Sheila ki jawaani" in Farah Khan's "Tees Maar Khan". But she was also the lead actress of the film. In "Agneepath", Katrina will just be seen in the song "Chikni chameli".

The original Amitabh Bachchan-starrer "Agneepath" featured Archana Puran Singh in item number "Alibaba".

The new "Agneepath" is being directed by debutant Karan Malhotra. Releasing Jan 26 next year, it will see Sanjay Dutt in the villain's role.

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Reema weds Dr Shahab in Virginia

LAHORE: Lollywood barbie doll Reema Khan has officially tied knot with American cardiologist surgeon Dr Tariq Shahab Wednesday in Virginia court, Geo News reported.

According to sources, the Nikkah took place at a local court in Virginia according to American law while Rukhsati will take place on November 18.

While talking to Geo News on telephone, Reema said that she considers herself very lucky as she will be a part of an educated and respected family.

Regarding wedding preparations, the actress told that she has put amazing Henna designs on her palms and her family members have created a joyful wedding mood all around.

Hassan Shehryar, who is a Pakistani fashion designer of international repute, has prepared the wedding dresses for the bride and groom.

The wedding ceremonies began from Monday with the Mayun function.

Reema is in the US with her parents and relatives who will attend the wedding functions. After marriage, the actress will stay in America for few weeks in a house bought by Dr Shahab for his wife.

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Rockstar ( Movie Review)

Jim Morrison once said, 'Film spectators are quiet vampires'... and in case you are planning to catch his self-confessed disciple Janardan ‘Rockstar’ Jakhar (Ranbir Kapoor) in action this weekend, you are in for a feast.

In Imtiaz Ali’s most complex project till date, Ranbir has delivered a performance which hardly any of his competition can hope to emulate. From being a downtown North Dilli boy JJ to an angry and bitter Jordan, he makes up for all the holes you can pick in Imtiaz Ali’s plot with his brilliant histrionics.

Yup, Ali’s Rockstar lacks depth... just like its protagonist Janardan’s life. With a hairdo and clothes that resemble the fashion of the early 1970s, Janardan, or JJ as he calls himself, is constantly trying to ape rockstar Jim Morrison and is constantly seeking a formula to become one.

His confidants, college mates and college canteen owner Kattara Bhai tell him that to be a rockstar one needs to experience life altering love, heartbreak and self discovery. And his mind ticks till he spots Heer (Nargis Fakhri).

Heer is the diva of the college, poised and polished very lady like. Their union seems unfeasible. After a few scenes, we learn that she is to be married off within 20 days and wants to experience all that is forbidden.

The duo makes a list and bond over soft-porn cinema in a seedy Delhi theatre and country liquor but without emotions for each other. In due course, JJ is christened Jordan, which seems to be an apt name for a rockstar.

As the mystery unfolds over layers of flashbacks, it takes the story to a designated plateau and halts.

At stages, you feel you are watching a documentary, full of montages of memories lined up over good music. Be it Sufi music or the shehnai-guitar jugalbandi, A.R. Rahman's music touches your heart.

Performances are superb. Nargis is a sure threat to Katrina Kaif. Shammi Kapoor sharing screen space with Ranbir touches a raw nerve. Over all, Ranbir carries away accolades for his histrionics.

Coming from a director who has given wonderful hits like "Jab We Met" and "Love Aaj Kal", "Rockstar" fails to match the hype. It's evident that there is something amiss with the characterisation of this love story.

During the entire transition it is not revealed how Jordan becomes a symbol of rage nor does it reveal the 'junoon' of Nargis' character. But even Imtiaz Ali's non-linear and jerky story telling can’t eclipse the rise of a Rockstar.

With some beautiful wide angle shots, the film captures scenic Kashmir, Prague and Delhi in a way that has not been seen in the recent past.

The editing too is crisp but the last half hour is agonisingly similar to Shahid Kapoor's "Mausam". It just goes on and on.

The dialogues are refreshingly rustic and funny. An extra star in the rating for Ranbir's performance. He along with AR Rahman’s stellar music makes ‘Rockstar’ a great one-time watch.

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Ladies vs Ricky Bahl trailer released

MUMBAI: Official trailer of Ladies vs Ricky Bahl starring sizzling Anuskha Sharma and Ranveer Singh has been released.

Ladies vs Ricky Bahl is all set to hit the cinemas on December 9.

Maneesh Sharma's latest direction is about Ricky Bahl, a ‘classy’ conman, who cheats women across different cities for a living and finally meets his match in the sizzling Anushka Sharma in Goa.

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Aishwarya Rai checks in for delivery

MUMBAI: Bollywood actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has checked into Seven Hills Hospital according to Indian media reports.

Aishwarya who is married to Abhishek Bachchan is expecting her first child this week. According to reports, Aishwarya has been visiting the hospital for regular checkups and Abhishek told an Indian news paper that all he wants is a healthy child.

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Brad Pitt set to quit acting at 50

SYDNEY: Hollywood superstar Brad Pitt has revealed he plans to quit acting in three years, but the 47-year-old admitted he is not sure what he will do after ditching a career which made him a household name.

During an interview with an Australian current affairs show in Tokyo to promote his latest movie "Moneyball", the American actor was asked how much longer he would like to "do your business for".

"Three years," he said.

When the reporter pressed him on what would happen then, he replied: "Hell if I know. I am really enjoying the producing side and development of stories and putting those pieces together."

Pitt also revealed that he and partner Angelina Jolie were open to expanding their brood of six children, in the interview screened on Australia's "60 Minutes".

"You know, I don't know that we're finished. I don't know yet," Pitt said, adding that he enjoyed the chaos of having children around despite the lack of sleep this entailed.

"I mean, because those late nights are so fun when one of them's up or those mornings when they get up and make pancakes or something. That's what it's about."

Pitt said his family with Jolie had changed his career, and influenced the kinds of films he wanted to make.

"If I'm choosing a film now, I want it to be maybe less immature than things I have done in the past," he said.

"I'm very conscious, when they're adults I want it to mean something to them. I want them to think, 'Dad's alright'. It changes everything. Everything."

The actor, who rose to prominence in 1991's "Thelma and Louise" and went on to star in "Ocean's Eleven" and "Fight Club", said he had not dealt well with fame in the past and was worried about media attention on his children.

"Sure I worry. It's the only thing I get hot about, I'm ready to fight about," he said.

"But on the other hand you know, it's a trade-off, like anything.

"And we, these guys, I'm so happy for them, because they get to see the world. And their lives are so enriched by it. The privacy issues are something we're always battling."

The actor, who has received critical acclaim for "Moneyball", said he was content with life.

"I think happiness is overrated, truthfully. I do. I think sometimes you're happy, sometimes you're not. There's too much pressure to be happy," he said.

"Satisfied, at peace, those would be more goals for myself." (AFP)

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DiCaprio fails to beat 'Immortals' at box office

LOS ANGELES: Big-budget 3-D epic "Immortals" reigned supreme at the North American box office this weekend, beating an Adam Sandler comedy and a Leonardo DiCaprio biopic, industry data showed Monday.

Set in ancient Greece, "Immortals" scored $32.2 million in weekend receipts, pushing it past Sandler's "Jack and Jill," in which he plays both a successful Los Angeles advertising executive and his needy twin sister Jill.

The comedy came in second with $25 million, according to monitor Exhibitor Relations.

Animated kids' romp "Puss in Boots," last week's leader, took third place with $24.7 million. The flick features voice work by Antonio Banderas, Salma Hayek, Zach Galifianakis and Billy Bob Thornton.

In fourth was "Tower Heist," with an all-star cast led by Eddie Murphy -- who quit as Oscars host last week after a row over anti-gay comments by the film's and the Oscars' producer Brett Ratner -- at $12.7 million.

It was trailed by Clint Eastwood's "J. Edgar," which stars DiCaprio as late FBI director J. Edgar Hoover and raked in $11.2 million.

Comedy sequel "A Very Harold and Kumar 3D Christmas" fell to sixth place, with $5.9 million, besting futuristic thriller "In Time" starring Justin Timberlake and Amanda Seyfried at $4.1 million.

Dropping to the eighth spot was "Paranormal Activity 3," with $3.6 million over the weekend but an impressive total of $100.8 million over four weeks in theaters.

A remake of the hit 1980s dance romp "Footloose" slipped to ninth at $2.7 million, ahead of the boxing robots of "Real Steel," with the Disney hit for children starring Hugh Jackman taking in $1.9 million. (AFP)

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Reema Khan all set to tie knot on Nov 18

LAHORE: Famous Lollywood actor and director Reema Khan is all set to tie the knot with an American cardiologist surgeon Dr Tariq Shahab on November 18.

The wedding ceremonies have kicked off from Monday with the Mayun function while Nikkah will be held on November 18.

Reema is in the US with her parents and relatives who will attend the wedding functions. After marriage, the actor will stay in America for few weeks.

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Shah Rukh Khan's Don 2 release in doldrums

MUMBAI: The release of Bollywood mega star Shah Rukh Khan's next movie Don 2 is said to be doldrums over a copyright infringement.

The allegation of copyright violation has emanated from none other than the production house Nariman Films that produced the original Don movie starring Amitabh Bachchan in 1978, said reports.

According to Nariman films, Excel Entertainment, headed by Farhan and Ritesh, only had the copyright to remake the original Don movie which they did in 2006 with Don: The Chase Begins Again. The agreement for the remake expired in 2009 and was not renewed by Excel Entertainment.

Excel Entertainment has been served a legal notice for the infringement of copyright.

It has been reported that Nariman films will be approaching the courts to halt the release of Don 2 on December 23.

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Marilyn Monroe's never seen before photographs exhibited in New York

Several never seen before photographs of Marilyn Monroe, are being featured in a new exhibit devoted to the legendary actress.

The exhibition titled ‘Picturing Marilyn’, opened on Thursday at the Milk Gallery in New York and is set to run through the weekend.

According to the organisers, it spans Monroe’s life in front of the camera lens, starting with her teenage years, when she was photographed on the beach by Andre De Dienes,

It was timed to coincide with the release of the film ‘My Week with Marilyn,’ which stars Michelle Williams as Monroe.

The exhibit is made up of more than 60 images of the actress, shot by some of the most famous photographers, including her photo shoot with Philippe Halsman for the Life magazine cover when she was 26 years old.

Co-organiser Bert Stern’s photograph of Monroe in a black Dior dress shot for Vogue magazine is the centrepiece of the show.

He also shot Monroe’s final portraits, a series known as “The Last Sitting,” in 1962.

In total Stern shot more than 2,500 images of Monroe, but has released only a few for public viewing.

Among other previously unseen images is a De Dienes shot taken of Monroe when she was 23 in a rare moment, where she was without make-up, the Telegraph reported.

Another picture from 1954, by Bruno Bernard, shows Monroe casually stretched out across rows of movie theatre seats and dressed in head-to-toe white.

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Sarah Ferguson's cleavage inspired Chris Martin's 1st song

Coldplay’s Chris Martin has revealed that his first song was inspired by the former Duchess Of York Sarah Ferguson’s cleavage.

The rock frontman was 11 years old when he penned his first song, and the ex-royal redhead’s boobs provided the spark.

“I was 11 years old when I wrote my first song,” the Sun quoted the rockstar as saying.

“It was a terrible song about people being more obsessed with Sarah Ferguson’s t*ts than what was really happening in the world.

“I kept it clean as you couldn’t swear where I was from. I was singing very high and no one was listening,” he added.

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Olsen twins beat Middletons for best-dressed sisters

The Olsen sisters are on the cover of Vogue’s best-dressed supplement for this issue.

Vogue is looking at stylish sisters this time, with sisters from the Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton and her sister Pippa, to celebrity singers Beyonce and Solange Knowles.

“It''s been a year of sisters, most famously with Catherine and Pippa Middleton,” the Daily Mail quoted Mark Holgate, Vogue Fashion News Director and Editor of the best dressed issue, as saying.

The four Courtin-Clarins sisters came in second, followed by Dakota and Elle Fanning, the Duchess of Cambridge and Pippa Middleton and Ruby and Lily Aldridge.

The Olsen sisters were famous US TV child stars and now have their own high-end designer labels The Row and Elizabeth and James.

“They get it right a lot of the time and then sometimes they don''t get it right. That''s actually great because it shows that it''s their hands reaching into their wardrobes,” Holage said.

“Look at what they''ve done with (their fashion labels) The Row and Elizabeth and James,” he said.

“They are legitimate fashion forces,” he added.

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Less is more for Kate Winslet

Oscar winning actress Kate Winslet, a mother of two, says her beauty rule is to go simple and minimal.

"I like to do my own make-up. I believe in less is more," dailymail.co.uk quoted Winslet as saying.

"Recently, I wore a simple, black Victoria Beckham column dress with long sleeves and small, gold belt detailing on the front. I knew that a curly hairdo would have completely gone against the dress, so we went for a high sculpted ponytail with a little bit of height in the front. It pulled the whole look together," she added.

The 36-year-old looked stunning in a recent photoshoot.

"Glamour to me is about remaining graceful and understated. For example, with very bold lip colours, you can't overdo the rest of your face. With a bright-red party lipstick, just go with lots of mascara and keep everything else clean," she said.

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Taylor Swift named 'Entertainer of the Year'

Taylor Swift has become only the second woman to receive Entertainer of the Year at the County Music Awards for the second time on Wednesday night.

The 21-year-old singer followed in the footsteps of Barbara Mandrell - in recognition of her worldwide success and thanked fans for their support when she picked up the accolade.

"This is thanks to all the fans who filled the stadiums and arenas all over the world this year," Contactmusic quoted her as saying.

"I am so happy we had so many to play for this year. You have made my year."

"To win Entertainer of the Year twice was like the coolest thing ever happening to me, happening twice," she added.

Country Music Awards 2011 full list of winners:
Entertainer of the Year:
Taylor Swift
Song of the Year:
'If I Die Young' - Kimberly Perry
Single of the Year:
'If I Die Young' - The Band Perry
Album of the Year:
'My Kinda Party' - Jason Aldean
Male Vocalist of the Year:
Blake Shelton
Female Vocalist of the Year:
Miranda Lambert
Vocal Duo of the Year:
Sugarland
Vocal Group of the Year:
Lady Antebellum
Musician of the Year:
Mac McAnally
New Artist of the Year:
The Band Perry
Musical Event of the Year:
'Don't You Wanna Stay' - Jason Aldean with Kelly Clarkson
Music Video of the Year:
'You and Tequila' - Kenny Chesney featuring Grace Potter

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Shakira honoured by father

Singer Shakira broke down in tears as her father William Mebarak serenaded her during a star-studded dinner in Las Vegas.

The 34-year-old was named the Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year at the special tribute Wednesday.

Shakira wiped away tears as Mebarak sang the classic song Mi Nina Bonita (My Pretty Girl), while pictures of the father and daughter appeared on a big screen behind him, reports femalefirst.co.uk.

"Thank you, daddy, for that song," the 34-year-old later told him.

Also present at the occasion were Black Eyed Peas rapper Taboo and Mexican rocker Alejandra.

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Dannii Minogue gets honorary doctorate

Australian singer Dannii Minogue has been conferred with an honorary doctorate in recognition of her services to the entertainment industry.

"I'm honoured to receive this award, it came as a complete shock," femalefirst.co.uk quoted Minogue as saying.

Minogue wore a traditional cap and gown while accepting an honorary Doctor of Media award from Southampton Solent University, England.

"Her international career stands as evidence of the personal success that can be achieved with talent, persistence and hard work. Dannii Minogue has made a major contribution to the entertainment industry and is an outstanding role model," said a spokesperson of the university.

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Salma Hayek hates men 'talking' only to her breasts!

Salma Hayek has revealed that she detests men looking at her breasts all the time.

Hayek, who is one of Hollywood’s most glamorous actresses, said that men talk to her most famous assets, even if she is fully clothed.

“Sometimes I talk to guys and even though I’m fully covered up they talk to my chest.”

“They don’t know they’re doing it and I don’t like to tell them,” said the 45-year-old.

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Porn star Sasha Grey refuses to withdraw from kids' school reading program

Former adult film star Sasha Grey has claimed that she is not going withdraw from an elementary school reading program despite outcry from angry parents, a new report revealed.

According to TMZ.com, news broke that on Friday that a Los Angeles area elementary school was facing some major criticism from parents, after the district invited Grey to read to a group of first graders as part of the Read Across America program.

“I committed to this program with the understanding that people would have their own opinions about what I have done, who I am and what I represent,” Fox News quoted the actress as saying.

“I am an actor. I am an artist. I am a daughter. I am a sister. I am a partner.

“I have a past that some people may not agree with, but it does not define who I am.

“I believe in the future of our children, and I will remain an active supporter and participant in education-focused initiatives,” she added.

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Wax statue biggest honour: Kareena

Bollywood actress Kareena Kapoor, who has been immortalised in wax at Madame Tussaud's, says it is an honour to be in the league of Indian luminaries like Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan and Sachin Tendulkar.

"I think being waxed at Madame Tussaud's is one of the biggest honours I have ever received. In my whole career, I think to be given this particular honour is very rare," said Kareena.

The 31-year-old, who made her debut with "Refugee" in 2000, gives credit to her fans.

"It is obviously because of you guys and all my fans who have made it possible and made my dream come true," she said.

Kareena's wax statue, which cost 150,000 pounds, was unveiled at the musuem in Blackpool Oct 27, a day after the release of her latest film "RA.One".

"I never really thought that I would be waxed or that my statue would stand besides that of famous personalities in museum. Whether it is Mr. Bachchan, or Shah Rukh or Sachin Tendulkar.... really never thought I would be standing next to them. But thank you guys for making my dream possible," she said.

Currently, the actress has her kitty full with projects like "Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu", "Agent Vinod", Reema Kagti's untitled project and Madhur Bhandarkar's "Heroine".

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Hema Malini, Jaya Prada to be honoured

Yesteryears actresses Hema Malini and Jaya Prada will be honoured with Aadhi Aabadi Women Achievers awards for their contribution to Indian cinema.

The award aims at recognise women who have achieved success and emerged as role models.

"It’s an achievement in itself to be able to honour legends like Hemaji and Jayaji”, said Dinesh Kumar of Dinesh Telefilms, organiser of the awards.

Apart from Hema and Jaya, TV actress Juhi Aslam, popularly known for her role as Bharti, a dwarf girl, in Imagine TV's "Baba Aiso Var Dhoondo", beauty expert Vandana Luthra and producer-actress Deepti Bhatnagar will be honoured.

Actress Zohra Sehgal, 99, will be honoured with the lifetime achievement award.Chief Minister Sheila Dixit and Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar would present the awards.

The guest list includes Raj Babbar, Navin Jindal, Raju Kher, Suniti Yadav and Pradeep Jain, Union Minister of State for Rural Development.The awards function will be held Nov 18 at Kamani Auditorium.

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'Rockstar' earns Rs.11 crore plus on opening day

Ranbir Kapoor starrer “Rockstar” has got off to a flying start with the film managing to earn Rs.11 crore plus on the opening day itself.

Directed by director Imtiaz Ali, known for making films like "Jab We Met" and "Love Aaj Kal", the story revolves around a Jat boy who aspires to become a famous rockstar like Jim Morrison.

The interesting pairing of Ranbir and Nargis Fakri topped with melodious music by A.R. Rahman has managed to draw in the crowds.

According to a press release, the film has managed to earn Rs. 11.25 crore plus on the opening day Friday, across all cinemas in India.

Even though the film has received a mixed response at the box-office, Ranbir's performance has been appreciated by everyone - audience and the critics.

Co-produced by Eros International and Shree Ashtavinayak Cine Vision, the film was made on a budget of more than Rs.60 crore and has been extensively shot in Delhi in locations like St. Stephen's College, Connaught Place and Nizamuddin, among others.

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Choreographer Subal Sarkar dead

Mumbai, Nov 12 : Renowned dancer and choreographer of Marathi film industry Subal Sarkar died here Saturday following a prolonged illness, a family friend said. He was 76.Sarkar breathed his last at his Dadar residence in the morning. He is survived by his wife, a son and a daughter.

Sarkar, hailing from West Bengal, started his career as a choreographer with the Marathi movie "Soyarik" in 1975.Since then, he never looked back and choreographed for nearly 100 films in the last 37 years.

Sarkar was noted for his earthy and robust dance styles, including the state’s folk dance, "Laavni", which he implemented on top Marathi stars including Dada Kondke and Ashok Saraf among many others.

Among his notable movies in Marathi are: "Maherchi Sari", "Ram Ram, Gangaram", "Pandu Havaldar", and Hindi movies like "Andheri Raat Me, Diya Tere Haath Me", "Tere Mere Beech Me", "Aage Ki Soch", "Khol De Meri Zubaan", and a few Gujarati movies.

Expressing deep grief over Sarkar’s death, state PWD and Tourism Minister Chhagan Bhujbal said that Marathi film industry and the state has lost “a highly respected choreographer who experimented with different dance styles, but never repeated himself".

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Beyonce is highest paid performer per minute

Beyonce Knowles has been named the highest earning entertainer in the world who charges per minute for appearing on the stage.

The "Love on Top" singer topped a poll by social media website saucytime.com by earning 1.25 million pounds for a five-song performance at a private New Year's Eve 2010 party, equating to 71,040 pounds for each minute she was on the stage, reports femalefirst.co.uk.

In second place was Mariah Carey, who earned 630,000 per minute for a four-song set at a similar party held the previous year on the same Caribbean island.

Third highest earner per minute was Kylie Minogue, who commanded 33,000 pounds every sixty seconds or two million for her whole hour set. She had sung at the launch party of the Atlantis Hotel in Dubai, November 2008.

Next was Jennifer Lopez, who received the equivalent of 25,000 pounds a minute from Russian tycoon Andrei Meinichenko to appear at his wife's birthday party in 2007.

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Rihanna teases new album, climbs iTunes chart

LOS ANGELES: Rihanna on Thursday released track teasers online from her upcoming album "Talk That Talk," pushing the album up to no. 12 on the iTunes chart ahead of its November 21 release.

The snippets from all 11 songs on the album comes after the singer posted a picture on her official Facebook page last week, revealing the track listing. (Reuters)

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Veena offered Rs45m for appearance, marriage on Indian TV

Celebrity Veena Malik has been offered Indian Rs15 million — over and above a Rs30 million contract — to get married on-screen to the winner of the Indian reality TV show “Swayamvar,” the Times of India (TOI) reported on Thursday.

The amount is in addition to an initial offer of Rs30 million for Malik to feature on the show.
TOI reported that, “the television channel has drawn up two contracts for Veena. If she walks off without an actual marriage with one of the prospective grooms from the show, she will get only Rs3 crore.”

The TOI report stated that “Malik said she was not allowed to speak about the Rs 4.5 crore contract.”
During Malik’s last visit to India back in January, she informed the Indian media that she wants to be “India ki bahu”. While she was busy rehearsing for the grand finale of reality show “Bigg Boss” in January, the actor managed to reveal her fascination with Indian men.

The actor, who made headlines for her ‘close association’ with Ashmit Patel in a reality show, said, “Mujhe ab rishta chahiye. I feel Indian men are wow!”

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Kim Kardashian may have to pay $2mn to keep engagement ring

Kim Kardashian may have to hand over millions of dollars to her soon-to-be ex-husband, Kris Humphries, to be able to retain her 20.5-carat diamond ring after their divorce.

According to sources close to the couple, the 31-year-old TV celebrity loved the flashy ring so much that she included a clause in her pre-nuptial agreement, which allows her to buy the ring from the NBA star for the original price in case of a divorce, TMZ reported.

As far as the price of the massive engagement ring goes, the socialite never disclosed how much the basketball player plunked down, but according to multiple reports, it is worth an estimated 2 million US dollars (1.927 million dollars).

Merely after 72 days of her marriage to the 26-year-old professional basketball player, Kardashian announced last week that she was divorcing Humphries on the grounds of “irreconcilable differences.”

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'Miracle' serum boosts cleavage in just 4 weeks!

A new body serum that claims to boost women's cleavage by as much as three-quarters of a cup size in just four weeks has become a hit in the UK market.

The 'boob job in a tube' works by stimulating the formation and storage of naturally occurring fat cells in the breasts, thus boosting the size, the Daily Mail reported.

The Bust Fix serum developed by the UK company, NIP + FAB, is flying off the shelves at a rate of 1,000 tubes a minute at its peak and, in the last fortnight alone, sold 100,000 in Boots stores nationwide and online.

The bust serum uses an ingredient called mangosteen, taken from the skin of the fruit, to prompt the production fatty acids in the breast tissue.

It also 'plumps up' and enlarges the fat cells, which already exist to more than 100 times their size.

The serum, which cost 16.29 pounds, differs from rival collagen-boosting creams that tend to target the skin around the bust - rather than the fat stores under the skin - to lift and plump up the breasts.n independent trials on 6,000 women, two-thirds of women saw an increase of half a cup size after 12 weeks, while almost a quarter went up by three-quarters of a cup size.

Tests by dermatological scientists found the Bust Fix increased the production of fatty acids, a process known as lipogenesis, by 57 per cent in five hours.

The cream also uses plant ingredients such as green algae and quince-hydrogel to firm and lift the breasts.

NIP + FAB said the serum "provides essential nutrients to the bust" to improve the skin's elasticity and thus help to smooth and lift the breasts.

During trials, 85 per cent of women agreed that it "visibly plumped, smoothed and firmed the skin" around the bust and neckline.

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The Adventures of Tintin (Movie Review)

The sheer thrill of seeing one's favourite childhood comic being transposed on to a different medium (film) combined with technology and the best of hands from Hollywood surely sets one's expectations soaring. Steven Spielberg's "The Adventures of Tintin" features superb animation and the most refined use of motion capture technology thus far.

This film attempts to bond three different Tintin stories -- most notably "The Secret of the Unicorn" (which is the film's subtitle) as well as "The Crab with the Golden Claws" and "Red Rackham's Treasure".

What 'The Adventures of Tintin' boils down to is essentially an Indiana Jonesesque movie, and is very much in that vein; a rollicking tour around the globe, hunting for mysterious treasures with various complex outcomes and action set pieces.

Set in the 1930s, Tintin's (Jamie Bell) adventure starts at a market place in Brussels. A few seconds after he purchases a miniature sailing ship he gets exorbitant offers to sell it off. He learns that the miniature is a replica of a 17th century sailing ship called the Unicorn.

Apparently the Unicorn was navigated by Captain Haddock's (Andy Serkis) ancestor and was carrying huge treasures in its vaults when it was raided and sunk by the pirates. This ancestor was the only person who knew the exact location of the sunken treasures. So he left behind a clue on a parchment in the three identical miniatures of the Unicorn.

Mild humour is infused in this film by the bumbling police officers Thompson and Thomson (Simon Pegg and Nick Frost) and Tintin's faithful canine Snowy.

The treasure hunt takes Tintin along with Captain Haddock through exciting and visually delightful chases. Easily the most stunning and ambitious of these is a chase through the streets of a Moroccan port.

They are chasing a mysterious man by the name of Sakharine (Daniel Craig) who is also trailing the Unicorn treasure. The sequence is about five minutes long and is conducted in one single, unbroken shot which, given the ludicrous ambition, complexity and pacing of the action, would have been simply impossible if the film had been live action.

It also takes place in a photo-realistic environment, which gives the sequence a physicality that should be at odds with the exaggerated characters, but actually heightens the tension and excitement of the whole scene.

Robert Zemeckis' design and creation of this film knocks anything he has attempted before. Zemeckis' earlier films, "Polar Express", "Beowulf" and "A Christmas Carol" failed to create that photo realistic version of humanity, because trying to motion capture and animate real people in that photo realistic way just makes humans look plastic and dead behind the eyes. Here there is a valid reason for this use. It could be done in no other way.

The animation is attempting photo realism but still has that cartoonish quality. They have the Herge tropes, the funny noses and weird hairstyles. Captain Haddock still looks like Captain Haddock from the comics but it's Haddock as if he were a real life being.

That technique, however, is incredibly effective, and never distracting.

Unfortunately the sequences aren't the most inventive. Beyond its gorgeous visuals the film resembles a conflation of "Raiders of the Lost Ark" and "Pirates of the Caribbean" with John Williams's music always on the point of bursting into the Indiana Jones triumphal march, the film has very little to offer and it is a great shame.

Discussing Tintin's action sequences makes it sound like it's little more than a series of set pieces strung together around a wafer-thin plot.

The script is, quite frankly, all over the place, chock full of ellipsis which can sometimes be very helpful to a film but here it is just lazy and sloppy. The talented trio, Joe Cornish, Steven Moffat (of Doctor Who fame) and Edgar Wright haven't done a very good job of covering the exposition.

The plot depends heavily on too-perfect coincidences. It sets out to deliver thrills, spills and chills with as little extraneous stuff as possible, and at that it succeeds beautifully. Also, the dialogue delivery, I am sure would be an issue for the Indian audience.

This grand scale adventure story directed by Spielberg is a clean family film pitched to a much younger audience, probably those below eight years, for the slapstick comedy and good natured fun that does not resort to crass, lowest common- denominator pandering.

There are some very good parts in the film, but as a whole this film is disappointingly unremarkable.

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Neha Dhupia to party with World-golf champion in Durban

World- golf champion Gary Player, regarded as arguably the biggest star of the game with 9 championship victories under his belt, is all set to celebrate his birthday in style over the coming weekend in Durban. Handpicked guests from all over the world have been invited for the 4-day binge this weekend in Durban

And the only invitee from Bollywood and apparently from India, on the guest list is Neha Dhupia.

The sultry actress was pleasantly surprised to receive the invitation and has begun preparing for the event.

Says Neha, “I’m very excited. Though I am not much of a golf player, my father is. And who doesn’t know Gary Player? The birthday celebrations would go on over a 3-day weekend. There’s a golf tournament, a gala dinner and a charity event. I am bracing myself for a weekend of hard partying.

Neha says there is “a little bit of a jinx” on her visits to South Africa. “Every time I am scheduled for a visit to South Africa something or the other goes wrong at the last minute. So I’ve never really been to South Africa or Durban. This time I hope nothing goes wrong. ”

Neha will be the only representative from the Indian entertainment business rubbing shoulders with sports superstars and film personalities from across the world.

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Hospital labours for Ash

12-hour security shifts; mobile ban to be imposed to ensure complete privacy for her delivery

To ensure complete privacy to Bachchan bahu for her delivery, authorities at Seven Hills order security staff to work 12-hr shifts; mobile ban to be imposed

The entire country is waiting with bated breath for Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's baby, and the staff at Seven Hills Hospital, where the Bachchan bahu is supposed to give birth is not far behind.

But for those who thought the doctors at the Marol hospital were on edge, they are wrong. In fact, it is the security and cleaning personnel, who are burning the midnight oil to ensure that the medical facility is ready and safe for her delivery.

The actress is ready to give birth anytime and while bets are on about the exact date of her delivery, sources say that the actress will have a planned delivery on November 11. In an attempt to maintain security till the Bachchan family leaves, the administration has ordered the security staff to work a 12-hour shift instead of the usual six-hour shift.

Also, a suite on the fifth floor of the hospital has been completely refurbished for the Bachchan bahu.

According to sources, the suite is one of the most expensive suites on the level, which houses a spa too.

And if all this was not enough to maintain privacy, sources told MiD DAY that once Aishwarya is admitted to the hospital, staff members will not be allowed to carry mobiles into her room. "The authorities are afraid that a staffer will click a picture of the family that would hurt their reputation. Hence, they have imposed a ban on phones," said a source.

Sources further explained that the reason why Aishwarya chose the Marol facility was because her sister-in-law Srima, reportedly gave birth to her son at the same facility. "The hospital is not crowded allowing the star family to maintain a certain level of privacy," said a hospital doctor.

Credit: Mid-Day.com

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Ameesha Patel bonds with Saif. Bebo listening?

Guess who has been bonding big time during the shoot of Race 2 in Filmcity? Ameesha Patel and Saif Ali Khan.

Nah, once-upon-a-time jaani dushman Kareena Kapoor need not worry.

Her Nawab and Ameesha were reminiscing their experience from Humraaz, which they did together with Akshaye Khanna some years ago.

If you're asking why they didn't talk about Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic, the answer is obvious: it tanked big time.

And in B-Town, there's no time or inclination to mull over flops. Anyway, the two were soon joined by Anil Kapoor who went ga ga over Ameesha's professionalism. Ho hum...

Credit: Mid-Day.com

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11.11.11 the hot favorite amid bookies for baby B!!

MUMBAI: 11.11.11 seems to be bookies’ favorite bet on when Baby B would be born. Till recently, focus was on whether Ash will have a baby girl or a boy. But now, everyone’s focus has shifted to the date of the birth of the baby.

If rumors are to be gone by, then Rs150 crore is being bet on the date of the baby’s birth.

“There are a lot of bets being placed on dates between November 9 and 14, confirms a Mumbai-based bookie. The money riding on it is at least 150crores which may go up. November 11 is the hot favourite amongst bookies. The second most speculated date is November 14, which is Children’s Day.”

“If the kid is born on 11.11.11, then he/she will be governed by the moon and his birth number would be 2, says numerologist Sanjay Jumani.

Many superstars in Bollywood have their birth number as 2 including Amitabh Bachchan (Oct 11), Shahrukh Khan (Nov 2), Ajay Devgn (April 2), Sanjay Dutt (July 29), Dilip Kumar (Dec 11), Rajesh Khanna (Dec 29) and many more.

Also, with the moon being the planet with the maximum influence on the day, the kid’s creative abilities would be much sharper. Many musicians, actors and painters are ruled by the moon. On the flipside, the moon also has side effects, which can make the person very sensitive and moody.”

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Jackson doctor admits 'stupid' mistakes before death

LONDON: Conrad Murray, the doctor convicted of Michael Jackson's manslaughter, admitted in comments broadcast Thursday that he made mistakes on the day of the pop icon's death but denied criminal culpability.

Murray recalled how he went into the room next to Jackson's bedroom to make telephone calls while the star lay dying - and justified not telling police about having given him propofol, as "I did not think it was important."

The doctor's previously unheard comments were made to British journalist Steve Hewlett and aired on Channel 4 immediately before the showing of a controversial documentary charting the singer's demise.

Murray, 58, claimed Jackson had requested "milk" - his slang term for propofol - at 10:40 am on June 25, 2009, to help him sleep after a restless night.

In accounting for the one hour and 40 minutes between administering the drug and emergency services being called, Murray said he had sat with Jackson, checking his vital signs until he believed the effects had worn off, before moving to the adjacent room at 11:20 am.

Murray did not inform police that Jackson had taken the drug because "they never asked me" and "I did not think it was important."

The doctor also accepted he had made a mistake in not keeping medical notes on Jackson, but argued this failure "was not responsible for his death".

The managers of Jackson's estate on Wednesday condemned as "reprehensible" the documentary "The Man Who Killed Michael Jackson", shown in Britain immediately after the interview was broadcast.

Jackson's executors demanded US broadcaster MSNBC withdraw plans to screen the program - along with an interview in which Murray quotes Jackson's last words in 2009 as "begging" for propofol. (AFP)

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Eddie Murphy out, Brian Grazer in at Oscars

LOS ANGELES: In a day of drama befitting Hollywood, Oscar organizers on Wednesday said comedian Eddie Murphy was bowing out as host of the world's top film honors and producer Brian Grazer was stepping in to run the show.

The dual announcements by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences follows Tuesday's departure of producer Brett Ratner who earned the wrath of academy members after using a gay slur at a weekend screening of his new movie, "Tower Heist," which co-starred Murphy.

Ratner had lured the "Beverly Hills Cop" funnyman into the coveted job as Oscar host and after he quit, Murphy tendered his resignation on Wednesday. It appeared to be the first time a host quit the show that annually is among the most-watched programs on U.S. TV and is seen by tens of millions worldwide.

Murphy's departure paved the way for the academy to bring on "A Beautiful Mind" producer Grazer to guide the show from concept to curtain this coming February. It will be up to Grazer to pick a new host for the awards that honor the top films, performances and other movie work of 2011.

"Brian Grazer is a renowned filmmaker who over the past 25 years has produced a diverse and extraordinary body of work," academy president Tom Sherak, said in a statement.

Earlier in the day, on announcing Murphy's departure, Sherak had said, "I appreciate how Eddie feels about losing his creative partner, Brett Ratner, and we all wish him well."

On Tuesday Ratner resigned from the high-profile job in the face of an industry firestorm over his answer to a question at a "Tower Heist" screening about using rehearsals ahead of the film shoot. Ratner replied, "rehearsing is for fags."

Gay rights groups and some members of the academy took issue with his use of the word that is largely viewed as a slur, and Ratner later apologized publicly. But adding fuel to the fire was an interview he gave on the Howard Stern radio show about his sex life. The damage was done.

In his own statement, Murphy seemed almost apologetic for bowing out of the show.

"First and foremost, I want to say that I completely understand and support each party's decision with regard to a change of producers for this year's Academy Awards ceremony," he said.

"I was truly looking forward to being a part of the show that our production team and writers were just starting to develop, but I'm sure that the new production team and host will do an equally great job."

Fortunately for Oscar organizers, the show does not take place until the final Sunday of February, 2012, giving the group plenty of time to put on a show. (Reuters)

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Brangelina visit Japan to promote 'Moneyball'

TOKYO: Actor Brad Pitt praised the "tenacity" of Japan in its post-quake recovery efforts Thursday, as the star brought his partner Angelina Jolie and family to a nation still confronting a nuclear crisis.

"You are bringing everything forward to rebuilding and reclaiming the lives for yourselves and for others. It's valued and inspiring to us," Pitt told a news conference ahead of the Japan release of his new movie "Moneyball."

"Your tenacity and perseverance and survival has a great effect on us, to the world community, and I applaud you all for that," he said.

Pitt's visit to Japan, together with Jolie and their six children comes nearly eight months after a 9.0 magnitude earthquake triggered a devastating tsunami that left 20,000 dead or missing, while sparking the worst nuclear crisis since Chernobyl 25 years ago.

The global community is "greatly and painfully aware of the cataclysmic catastrophe," Pitt said. "Our hearts and thoughts are still with you who have been touched by this event."

In the film directed by Bennett Miller, Pitt plays the Oakland A's general manager Billy Beane who turns to a statistician with a radical new system to evaluate players and put together a competitive team at a quarter of the cost.

Baseball is hugely popular in Japan both as a professional sport and among children, and the nation has exported stars to US Major League Baseball such as Ichiro Suzuki of the Mariners and Hideki Matsui of the Oakland A's.

At the film's preview Wednesday, Pitt gave autographed balls to 10 teenage baseball players from the quake-hit northeast. (AFP)

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Lady Gaga steals the show at MTV Awards

BELFAST: Lady Gaga stole the show at the MTV Europe Music Awards in Belfast on Sunday, scooping four prizes and going one better than 2010 when she also led the field with three.

The flamboyant 25-year-old New Yorker won best female artist, best song and video for her hit single Born This Way as well Way as well related stories as the biggest fans award.

"I knew that this song was very special when I wrote it and I just didn't know when I first started out ... how special you would all be to me," a tearful Gaga told a packed, boisterous Odyssey Arena as she accepted the best song award.

"This is the single most important song that I've ever written and the single most important album. I love you little monsters to the end!" she added, using the term she employs to describe her fans.

Canadian teen sensation Justin Bieber was among the other multiple winners, picking up best pop act and top male singer.

Much of the attention in the run-up to the awards has been on the 17-year-old, who has denied allegations made by a US woman that he fathered her child when he was 16.

Bieber's girlfriend Selena Gomez, an actress and singer, hosted the MTV event, and the pair were photographed out the previous night in the city in a public show of togetherness.

Los Angeles rockers Thirty Seconds to Mars won two awards -- best alternative act and best world stage - as did Bruno Mars, honoured as the best new act and "push" artist who was promoted by MTV as an up-and-coming talent.

Katy Perry was voted best live act by more than 150 million MTV voters who decided most of the prizes. Eminem won best hip-hop artist, repeating his 2010 success, and Linkin Park scooped best rock.

Birth of MTV Brian May and Roger Taylor of Queen accepted the previously announced Global Icon prize. "We were there at the birth of MTV," May said.

"How wonderful for us to be here 40 years later ... and here in Belfast which is finally showing its beauty and setting an example to the world by finding, out of grief and tragedy, the beginnings of truth and peace."

British rockers Coldplay kicked off one of the biggest nights of pop music outside the United States with Every Teardrop Is a Waterfall from their new album Mylo Xyloto.

Host Gomez underwent multiple costume changes -- at least eight -- while lasers and flames lit up the darkened arena.
LMFAO performed Party Rock Anthem, a high octane disco hit that brought over 20 dancers to the stage where they strutted under tinsel "snow" that fell from the roof.

Red Hot Chili Pepper and Northern Irish favourites Snow Patrol played at other venues around Belfast, while Bieber earned the loudest screams when he sung his new track Under the Mistletoe followed by Never Say Never.

Lady Gaga sang Marry the Night from the top of a giant moon structure, and presenter and actress Hayden Panettiere was joined on stage by a naked man in a scripted appearance.

There was also a video tribute to late singer Amy Winehouse, who died in July aged 27.

The event closed with a medley of Queen hits including The Show Must Go On and We Will Rock You.

Belfast had been overtaken by Biebermania ahead of the show with hundreds of girls camped outside his hotel to catch the briefest glimpse of their idol.

"He's beautiful, he's like an angel," said Aya Lawlor, a 14-year-old Belfast girl who stood for hours on a cold Saturday night just to see Bieber. "He's proven that anyone can do it."

Thousands watched the main concert and other performances in the open and in smaller venues around Belfast, and millions tuned in around the world to see it via live stream on the web.

The awards are generally dominated by US acts even though they are held in a different European city each year.

Last year Gaga picked up prizes for best female artist, best pop act and best song for Bad Romance. This year she led the way with six nominations.

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Katrina can't escape skin show

She may have evaded the bikini but has to flaunt tank top and shorts for a sequence in the film

The bikini boogey has not really been exorcised out of Katrina Kaif's presence in Dhoom 3. Though she has convinced producer Aditya Chopra that the bikini is not essential for the scene where she was supposed to flaunt one, the issue is far from resolved.

Apparently the core team of Dhoom 3 continued to persuade the actress to take forward the tradition of bikini-clad leading ladies in the flick.

Says a source, "Though Katrina signed on the dotted line for Dhoom 3 only on condition that the bikini sequence be removed, they reluctantly removed the bikini. But the question of what she wears in lieu of the skimpy apparel has only now been resolved."

For the sequence, Katrina would now be wearing shorts and a suitable top.

Says the source, "Aditya Chopra and director Vijay Krishna Acharya were not willing to do away with the sequence where Katrina was to be seen in beach wear.

The sequence was to be shot on an exotic beach. After she said no to wearing a two-piece, there was talk of doing away with that sequence altogether. But it is felt by the entire team that the beach location is lucky for the series.

Since Katrina is required for that sequence, her clothes have been suitable modified to go by her aesthetic comfort and the requirement of the sequence." Interestingly, her role requires her to be more lean and athletic than the present.

Says a source from Istanbul where she is shooting for Ek Tha Tiger, "Katrina has a round-the-clock trainer with her in Istanbul who is currently training her in the rudiments of the physical-type required. She gets into advanced training on her return."

Apparently Katrina's character in Dhoom 3 would be "a mixture of Catwoman and Lara Croft, with a bit of Hema Malini from Seeta Aur Geeta thrown in." Katrina remained unavailable for comment.

Credit: Mid-Day.com

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Miley Naa Miley Hum (Movie Review)

There are some unexprected surprises in this sleeper rom-com, the newcomer Chirag Paswan being one of them.

In a tailormade role that projects him as an ideal son, considerate boss, supportive friend and sensitive lover Chirag doles out the schmaltz and the sweetness without tripping over his own goodness.

This is a benign film, innocuous in its intentions and harmless if somewhat pointless too. There are absolutely no villains in the script. In fact some of the people populating the plot seem to belong to another planet in their goodness.

Dalip Tahil in a turban stops his spunky daughter (Neeru Bajwa)’s engagement when he gets to know his best friend Kabir Bedi nursed a secret desire to see his hon-haar son (Chirag) married to the almost-engaged girl.

The hero is an angel in designer-disguise. He drives the best cars, wears the best sunglasses, romances a struggling model (Ranaut, struggling to shrug off her emotionally traumatized image) and yet sits with the staffers of his imperious father’s sprawling vineyard for a meal of roti and achaar.

The core idea of the film is to propagate a kind of picture-postcard bonhomie into the plot. The worst thing that happens in the hero’s life is that his parents are separated.

But that’s hardly a deterrent for his life being a seriously satirical celeberation of slow-motion joys that include romancing three ladies, two chosen by his respective parents and one chosen off a hoarding by Chirag himself.

Kangna as the struggling model who keeps bumbling into hard surfaces (including hero) has an interesting believable part. She starts off being a casualty of her own ambitions and then gradually gets closer to her real emotions.

Nice touch, that one. The tennis backdrop, though never done with the professionalism that hockey achieved in Chak De (and never mind Sagarika Ghosh the actress who played one of the hockey players in Chak De, surfacing in Miley Na Miley Hum as Chirag’s potential Biwi).

It’s all too pretty, too predictable and too soft and gentle to make a lasting impact.

But the heart is the right place. And you can’t help smiling at the world that the film encompasses with such tender hands that don’t want to brush against any evil.

Debutant Chirag Paswan is likeable when he isn’t caught out ‘acting’. He comes with the added burden of having to prove he isn’t just the brat with the golden spoon.

He conducts himself with reasonable aplomb in a film that’s just a wee bit different from the boy-meets-girl routine.

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Kim Sharma quits what she calls her terrible career

Kim Sharma’s career never took off. And now she has put an official end to her Bollywood career. Coincidentally both she and Shamita Shetty started their careers in Aditya Chopra’s Mohabbatein.

The film clicked. But the careers of all the newcomers in the film—Kim, Shamita, Preeti Jhangiani, Uday Chopra, Jimmy Shergill and Jugal Hansraj—failed to take off.

Now bizarrely enough, Shamita and Kim have quit films one after another. Kim who recently married Kenya-based businessman Ali Punjani is being seen for the last time in Loot released this week. In the film she is paired with singer Mika. Not a major or noticeable role.

Thereafter she says it’s goodbye to Bollywood.

Says Kim, “I am very happily married. Luckily and happily, Loot is the last of my terrible film career. ”

Kim now divides her time in three citires, Kenya, Dubai and Mumbai and sees no reason to cling to a non-existent Bollywood career. “So it’s farewell to Bollywood. My message to Bollywood, see you later, Beautiful! ”

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Miss Venezuela wins Miss World crown

LONDON: Miss Venezuela, Ivian Lunasol Sarcos Colimenares, was crowned the 2011 winner of the Miss World beauty pageant at a glittering final ceremony in London on Sunday.

Miss Philippines, Gwendoline Gaelle Sandrine Ruais, was named the runner-up, while Miss Puerto Rico, Amanda Victoria Vilanova Perez, came third.

Sarcos Colimenares, 22, who works for a broadcasting company and has a degree in human resources, gasped and threw her hands to her face as she was announced the winner.

Some 113 beauty queens from Albania to Zimbabwe took their place on the stage, with the show being broadcast live to an estimated audience of more than one billion viewers in 150 countries. (AFP)

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Secrecy surrounds new James Bond movie 'Skyfall'

LONDON: Daniel Craig will be back dodging bullets and vanquishing villains from China to Turkey in the 23rd installment of the James Bond film franchise, but the stars and director of "Skyfall" are keeping the who, what and how under wraps for now.

As previously announced, Oscar-winning director Sam Mendesdirects his first Bond adventure, which celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2012 when Skyfall is released.

One of the few details Mendes revealed to more than 100 reporters from around the world at the film's London press launch were his cast and the locations of the blockbuster, which starts production on Monday.

Bond regulars Craig and Judi Dench, as his stern spymaster M, return to their roles, Spanish actor Javier Bardem plays the villain and French actress Berenice Marlohe and Britain's Naomie Harris are Bond girls.

All five were at the press briefing, where they were joined by Bond producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael Wilson.

In addition, Mendes said the latest installment in one of cinema's longest and most successful film franchises will feature Ben Whishaw "who will be playing a part I can't tell you about in scenes I can tell you nothing about.

"And Albert Finney, who will also be playing a part I can tell you nothing about in scenes that I can't really tell you about and Ralph Fiennes, who, similarly, I can give you very little information about."

Asked whether he had not named all of the characters the leading actors would be playing because Bond fans might recognize them, the "American Beauty" director replied: "They might do. On the other hand they might not."

What producers have confirmed is that Skyfall will take Bond on another action-packed mission to London, Shanghai, Istanbul and Scotland.

A press release gave a brief plot outline, saying Bond's loyalty to M is tested "as her past comes back to haunt her.

"As MI6 (British intelligence) comes under attack, 007 must track down and destroy the threat, no matter how personal the cost."

NO "AUSTERITY" BOND

Mendes and his producers sought to reassure fans that tough economic conditions in the real world would not make the fictional exploits of the suave superspy any less spectacular.

"It, I think, has all the elements of a classic Bond movie, including, to quell any rumors, a lot of action," Mendes said.

Wilson added: "I think it's in the same (cost) range as the last film and we really haven't had to change anything in the script. We haven't had to sacrifice anything."

The 22nd Bond movie, "Quantum of Solace," cost an estimated $200 million to produce, more than the previous installment and Craig's Bond debut "Casino Royale," which cost a reported $150 million.

Any extra outlay did not translate into higher ticket sales, however, with Casino Royale earning $594 million at the global box office and Quantum of Solace $586 million, according to website www.boxofficemojo.com.

Sony Pictures, part of Sony Corp, will distribute Skyfall, which is set to hit British theaters on October 26, 2012 and U.S. cinemas on November 9 after a studio bankruptcy put production on hold for months and the last movie earned mixed reviews.

Next year is the 50th anniversary of the series, which began in 1962 with Sean Connery -- breathing life into the character created by former intelligence officer and novelist Ian Fleming -- on Her Majesty's secret service in "Dr. No."

Debt-laden Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc, known for its roaring lion logo and behind some of Hollywood's most fabled films including "The Wizard of Oz," filed for bankruptcy in November last year.

But two months later it confirmed Bond 23 would hit theatres in November, 2012, and in April MGM and Sony announced they would co-finance and distribute the next two Bond movies.

Craig's first appearance as Bond in 2006 was hailed as a refreshing change in direction toward a tougher, more serious 007, and reviews were overwhelmingly positive.

Quantum of Solace fared less well with the critics, although positive reviews still outweighed the negative and both films were commercially successful.

When Craig was asked if he would continue in one of cinema's most recognizable roles for a few more years, Broccoli interjected and said: "Yes, definitely." (Reuters)

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