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Immortals (Movie Review)

2011-11-18T00:53:00.000-08:00

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

Aishwarya gives birth to a baby-girl

2011-11-16T20:41:00.000-08:00

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".

Lady Gaga to adopt Indian kids‎?

2011-11-16T08:51:00.000-08:00

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.

J.Lo is sex mad, claims toyboy lover

2011-11-16T08:49:00.000-08:00

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."

Katrina is 'Chikni Chameli'

2011-11-16T08:47:00.000-08:00

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.

Reema weds Dr Shahab in Virginia

2011-11-16T08:44:00.000-08:00

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.

Rockstar ( Movie Review)

2011-11-16T00:51:00.000-08:00

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.

Ladies vs Ricky Bahl trailer released

2011-11-15T20:36:00.000-08:00

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.

Aishwarya Rai checks in for delivery

2011-11-15T20:35:00.000-08:00

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.

Brad Pitt set to quit acting at 50

2011-11-15T20:33:00.000-08:00

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)

DiCaprio fails to beat 'Immortals' at box office

2011-11-15T20:28:00.000-08:00

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)

Reema Khan all set to tie knot on Nov 18

2011-11-15T08:31:00.000-08:00

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.

Shah Rukh Khan's Don 2 release in doldrums

2011-11-14T08:25:00.000-08:00

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.

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

2011-11-13T08:30:00.000-08:00

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.

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

2011-11-13T08:27:00.000-08:00

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.

Olsen twins beat Middletons for best-dressed sisters

2011-11-13T08:26:00.000-08:00

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.

Less is more for Kate Winslet

2011-11-13T08:19:00.000-08:00

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.

Taylor Swift named 'Entertainer of the Year'

2011-11-12T08:47:00.000-08:00

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

Shakira honoured by father

2011-11-12T08:41:00.000-08:00

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.

Dannii Minogue gets honorary doctorate

2011-11-12T08:38:00.000-08:00

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.

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

2011-11-12T08:35:00.000-08:00

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.

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

2011-11-12T08:19:00.000-08:00

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.

Wax statue biggest honour: Kareena

2011-11-12T08:16:00.000-08:00

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".

Hema Malini, Jaya Prada to be honoured

2011-11-12T08:14:00.000-08:00

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.

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

2011-11-12T08:08:00.000-08:00

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.

Choreographer Subal Sarkar dead

2011-11-12T08:05:00.000-08:00

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".

Beyonce is highest paid performer per minute

2011-11-12T07:51:00.000-08:00

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.

Rihanna teases new album, climbs iTunes chart

2011-11-12T07:47:00.000-08:00

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)

Veena offered Rs45m for appearance, marriage on Indian TV

2011-11-11T02:23:00.000-08:00

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!”

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

2011-11-11T02:20:00.000-08:00

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.”

'Miracle' serum boosts cleavage in just 4 weeks!

2011-11-11T02:17:00.000-08:00

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.

The Adventures of Tintin (Movie Review)

2011-11-11T02:13:00.000-08:00

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.

Neha Dhupia to party with World-golf champion in Durban

2011-11-11T02:07:00.000-08:00

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.

Hospital labours for Ash

2011-11-11T02:03:00.000-08:00

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

Ameesha Patel bonds with Saif. Bebo listening?

2011-11-11T02:01:00.000-08:00

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

11.11.11 the hot favorite amid bookies for baby B!!

2011-11-11T01:59:00.000-08:00

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.”

Jackson doctor admits 'stupid' mistakes before death

2011-11-11T01:55:00.000-08:00

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)

Eddie Murphy out, Brian Grazer in at Oscars

2011-11-11T01:54:00.000-08:00

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)

Brangelina visit Japan to promote 'Moneyball'

2011-11-11T01:49:00.000-08:00

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)

Lady Gaga steals the show at MTV Awards

2011-11-08T13:49:00.000-08:00

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.

Katrina can't escape skin show

2011-11-07T08:30:00.000-08:00

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

Miley Naa Miley Hum (Movie Review)

2011-11-07T08:27:00.000-08:00

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.

Kim Sharma quits what she calls her terrible career

2011-11-07T08:24:00.000-08:00

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! ”

Miss Venezuela wins Miss World crown

2011-11-07T08:16:00.000-08:00

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)

Secrecy surrounds new James Bond movie 'Skyfall'

2011-11-07T08:11:00.000-08:00

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)

Loot (Movie Review)

2011-11-05T08:35:00.000-07:00

There is a Don (oh, there are many of them peeping out of every nook and cranny of this abominable comedy) played by Prem Chopra who loves Meena Kumari and Pakeezah.

Sighing loudly he tells another Don played with lipsmacking relish by Mahesh Manjrekar, “They don’t make heroines like Meena Kumari any more. She was someone you wanted to marry. Nowadays the heroines are good for only one thing. ”

That is just about the most subtle dialogue you will get to hear in this in-your-face farce where three small-time wastrels, Govinda, Jaffrey and Mahaakshay, and a scowling goon Suniel Shetty take off to Pattaya. What follows is a fiesta of fatuous gags and dialogues including of course bad puns on ‘pattaya’ and ‘guard’…. Wouldn’t miss out on that.

Loot looks like an unfinished product from a group of actors and technicians who lost their way in transit. This one should have ideally remained in the cans. Just why Suneil Shetty invested into this piece of filmed garbage is anyone’s guess.

Maybe he thought it would be a fun caper, a sort of Oceans 11 with lots of lowbow jokes about ‘andar daal’ and ‘baahar khol’. Come on!

Crudity by its very nature requires a very high amount of discipline and dedication to be convincing and inoffensive on sceeen.

The crassness in Loot is simply boring. The characters are most frequently seen lolling around in hotel rooms, waiting for the dialogue writer to come up with some more oafish innuendos.

In the meanwhile there is a whole truckload of gangsters, goons, dons and hoodlums waiting to pounce on the plot at the drop of a hat. The world never seemed more unsafe.

Govinda’s habitual abilities to improvise do see some of the scenes to a kind of culmination. And Suniel Shetty remains true to his character Manjrekar along with his sidekick Razaak Khan share the film’s only genuinely funny sequence.

But most of the time, the actors seem as clueless about their next move as the scriprwiter. So they just decide to have fun with the pun.

Somewhere in the initial reels singer Mika and starlet Kim Sharma (long time no see) pop up as part of a street gang in Pattaya. They add considerably to the overall confusion of the proceedings.

Really, you’d need nerves of steel to sit through this mishmash of misdirected mirth and over-done cockiness . The actors try hard not took bored.

The performances in this deflated farce are better than the recent Rascals where the actors tried hard to be funny. Here no one makes an effort except the dialogue writer who seems to be falling off his chair in delight at his torrent of double entendres.

If only we knew what was so funny. Loot is a hoot. And a painful reminder of the collapse of the comic caper in Bollywood in a heap of inadequacy. The writing reaches a stalemate even before the actors warm up to their roles.

And then it’s downhill all the way.

Deepika to promote sports during Olympics

2011-11-05T08:32:00.000-07:00

Actress Deepika Padukone has been approached for a motivational campaign during the 2012 London Olympics to encourage the young generation to take up sports.

"My first love continues to be sports and I would love to do any campaign that encourages people to take up sports in our country," Deepika said in a statement.

Daughter of veteran badminton player Prakash Padukone, Deepika has been a state level badminton player herself. She, however, chose to take up acting as a career.

"Yes, she has been approached. In all meetings, the board has been saying that she is the only one they would like do it because she has a very strong bond with sports," said an official spokesperson from Sports Development Corporation, the board promoting Olympics.

After a successful stint as a model, Deepika ventured into movies with blockbuster "Om Shanti Om" and also featured in hits like "Bachna Ae Haseeno" and "Love Aaj Kal".

The actress has also been approached to become the face of badminton in India.

"When we are looking for a celebrity to promote sports, we need people to believe that if this person can achieve so much at such a young age, so can we. In the case of Deepika, she is a true young achiever. She has achieved so much at such a young age," said the statement.

Drew Barrymore most overpaid actor

2011-11-05T08:28:00.000-07:00

Drew Barrymore has been named the most overpaid actor in Hollywood by Forbes magazine.
Barrymore tops Forbes 2011 list of Hollywood's Most Overpaid Actors list with a return average of 40 percent for every dollar movie studios spend on her.

The 36-year-old's films have failed to rake in moolah at the box office in the past five years. "Everybody's Fine" earned only $16 million globally and "Lucky You" brought in only $8 million.

The second position went to Eddie Murphy. He returns $2.70 for every dollar spent on him. Will Farrell is at the third position with a return average of $3.50, reports aceshowbiz.com.

Reese Witherspoon and Denzel Washington wrapped up the top five with return averages of $3.55 and $4.25 repectively.

Aniston and Pitt may ‘reunite’ at Oscars

2011-11-05T08:25:00.000-07:00

Hollywood hotties and ex-spouses Jennifer Aniston and Brad Pitt are planning to make their first public appearance together since 2004 at the Oscars.

Pitt and Aniston, who divorced in 2005 after five years of marriage, have been asked to present one of the gongs at next February’s Oscars ceremony, after their friend, film maker and video director Brett Ratner, landed the job of producing the Academy Awards show.

“They’re both considering it,” the Daily Telegraph quoted a source as telling the UK’s Now magazine.

“Brett knows that getting them on the podium together will make the ceremony the most talked about one ever,” the source added.

‘Twilight’ stars leave imprint on Hollywood

2011-11-05T08:23:00.000-07:00

LOS ANGELES: "Twilight" actors Robert Pattinson, Kristen Stewart and Taylor Lautner, made their mark on Hollywood on Thursday, leaving imprints of their hands and feet outside Grauman's Chinese Theater.

The "Twilight" stars were greeted by hundreds of screaming fans as they added their hand and footprints to those left by Charlie Chaplin, Frank Sinatra and dozens of other movie icons in past years, in the cement outside the movie theater.

Shifanjali Rao dating an Australian cricketer?

2011-11-03T08:54:00.000-07:00

The latest gossip on the Bollywood grapevine is that model, actress and item girl Shifanjali Rao is dating an Australian cricketer. Of course Shifanjali Rao denied it and said she meets a lot of people and attends a lot of Page 3 parties, so if she was seen dancing with someone doesn’t mean that she is dating him.

However, a source tells us that Shifanjali is very much in a relationship with a well-known Australian cricketer who was earlier linked to another Indian model and actress.The couple have been seen together at various locations including a 5-star hotel in Mumbai, Delhi and even Bangalore.

Shifanjali when contacted denied all these rumors and said that she has been doing a lot of events and stage shows and other celebrities are part of the troupe.

However, our source tells us that the couple were seen hugging and smooching at the J W Mariott hotel at Juhu in suburban Mumbai recently.

They have been spotted in each other's company almost ten times in the last two months and it is difficult to believe that there is nothing going on between the two, says our source.

As the old saying goes, there can be no smoke without a fire, what say Shifanjali...

Vidya to perform live at 'Ooh la la'

2011-11-03T08:51:00.000-07:00

Her oomph and chutzpah in the "Ooh la la" song from "The Dirty Picture" is already a rage. Vidya Balan is now gearing up to mesmerise fans with a live performance with other artists at the music launch of the film in Mumbai Friday.

"Vidya, Emraan (Hashmi), Naseeruddin Shah, Tusshar Kapoor, Bappi Lahiri and Shreya Ghoshal will perform at the event live, " Girish Johar, head of acquisition and distribution, Balaji Motion Pictures, told.

Asked if Vidya will perform to "Ooh la la", Johar said: "Yes of course!!!"

The event is to be held at the Inorbit Mall in Malad, starting 6 p.m. It is free for everyone.

"That's the novelty value. We wanted to take the film to the public directly so that they can interact with the stars and enjoy the music, " he added.

The actors themselves are quite excited about the colourful music launch.

Tusshar tweeted: "Hello people, on Friday, 4th Nov, pls come to 'The Dirty Picture' audio launch. It's at 6 pm at Inorbit, Malad and free for the public. It should be a first-of-its-kind audio launch where you will witness live performances by the star cast and singers.

"The Dirty Picture", produced by Ekta Kapoor, chronicles the rise to fame, gradual fall and death of southern actress Silk Smitha. The film is releasing Dec 2.

Kim Kardashian divorce sparks rumours of money-making 'Union' ploy

2011-11-03T08:47:00.000-07:00

Unlike other celebrities whose split is dogged by rumours of infidelity and extra-marital affairs, Kim Kardashian’s announcement to file for divorce against her husband of 72 days, Kris Humphries, is being viewed as a cynical money making ploy.

The 31-year-old TV personality’s decision to file for a divorce is being analysed as a calculated move as it came just hours before her mother’s book ‘Kris Jenner and All Things Kardashian’ was to go on sale.

Amidst all the chaos, Kardashian promoted the family’s new clothes store on Twitter, exhibiting a miscalculation of tone that she might live to regret as even her fans have started to question the reality behind the family’s money-spinning soap opera.

“Our store #KardashianKhaos is opening tomorrow at 9am at @TheMirageLV We are so excited!! Kardashian Khaos has arrived!’ Kardashian Khaos indeed…” the Daily Mail quoted her as tweeting.

Whatever the truth is, there is no doubt that her marriage to the 26-year-old professional basketball player has been lucrative for the Kardashian family as well as her abandoned spouse.

The couple netted a whopping 18 million dollars during their wedding ceremony, out of which almost 15 million dollars is thought to have been TV rights which formed part of the family’s exclusive deal with E!, meaning that the whole haul has earned the couple about 250,000 dollars per day.

The happy couple also bagged 1 million dollars from People magazine for exclusive shots of the apparently joyous occasion excluding the value of numerous other magazine covers.

Among others, the socialite was paid 500,000 dollars to host her bachelorette party at Tao in Las Vegas and the basketball player, who was earning around 40,000 dollars per game, has been hitting the quarter of a million mark each day since his marriage.

Lindsay Lohan jailed for 30 days in LA

2011-11-03T08:43:00.000-07:00

LOS ANGELES: Troubled US actress Lindsay Lohan was jailed for 30 days on Wednesday after admitting violating her probation terms for a previous offense.

Judge Stephane Sautner ordered the 25-year-old to surrender to county jail by November 9 to begin the sentence, while issuing a series of conditions to avoid serving another 270 days behind bars. (AFP)

James Bond aims to bounce back with new film launch

2011-11-03T08:40:00.000-07:00

LONDON: James Bond returns on Thursday with the launch of the 23rd instalment in the famous film franchise, and aims to bounce back after a studio bankruptcy put production on hold for months and the last movie earned mixed reviews.

As ever ahead of a major Bond announcement, unconfirmed rumours have been flying across cyberspace.

What can be said with certainty is that Daniel Craig returns for his third outing as the suave secret agent, and Sam Mendes, Oscar winner with "American Beauty" who worked with Craig on "Road to Perdition", will direct.

Spanish actor Javier Bardem and Britain's Ralph Fiennes are expected to join the cast, and Judi Dench is set to return as Bond's stern boss "M".

Other stars reported to be involved include Albert Finney, who would be making his first Bond appearance aged 75, and Naomie Harris as Miss Moneypenny.

Locations and plotline are largely unknown to the outside world, although some media have said scenes shot on a train in India are likely to feature.

A spokeswoman for Sony Pictures declined to give details about Thursday's event beyond what appeared on a press invitation -- that producers Michael Wilson and Barbara Broccoli would present Mendes and "key" cast members.

Sony Pictures, a unit of Sony Corp, will distribute the film, which is set to hit British theatres on Oct. 26, 2012 and U.S. cinemas on Nov. 9.

Next year is the 50th anniversary of the series, which began in 1962 with Sean Connery 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.

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.

The studios previously partnered on "Quantum of Solace" and Craig's 2006 Bond debut "Casino Royale."

The high-octane, action-heavy films are expensive to make and market, with Quantum of Solace estimated to have cost around $200 million.

But they have a good record commercially, and according to movie tracking website boxofficemojo.com, Casino Royale earned $594 million in global ticket sales and Quantum of Solace $586 million.

Craig's first appearance as Bond was hailed as a refreshing change in direction towards 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. (Reuters)

Deepika Padukone stuck to cycling routine during 'Desi Boyz'

2011-11-02T09:34:00.000-07:00

Deepika Padukone reportedly stuck to her exercise regime throughout the strenuous shoot of Desi Boyz.

The actress appears alongside Akshay Kumar and John Abraham in the action film.

A source told Hindustan Times: "Deepika is disciplined. She impressed everyone with her time management to squeeze in space for cycling.

"She didn't skip the routine even when she partied till late in the night or shot for 18 hours a day.

"Deepika was also eating simple and healthy food. And cycling helped her explore London, one of her favourite destinations."

Padukone recently returned to Race 2 after temporarily dropping out due to scheduling clashes with Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani.

She reportedly came back to the production after she was given a pay rise.

Despite her famously disciplined approach to her fitness, the actress recently admitted that she found promoting films "stressful".

LADY GaGa showed off her curves as she performed at the afterparty for the first ever Indian Grand Prix.

2011-11-02T09:28:00.000-07:00

Dressed in a skimpy outfit, which featured a thong, the singer looked a little more voluptuous than we are used to as she writhed on the stage.

The eccentric star has made good use of her time in the country, asking her management to shoehorn in trips to two local orphanages.

She asked for three hours at the children's homes to give music lessons to the kids.

The singer has revealed she plans to open her own foundation for disadvantaged children one day.

A source said: "GaGa would one day like to set up a foundation in her name to help children and, now her career has really taken off, she feels as if it's the right time to do something.

"She knows it will be a massive amount of work but she wants to start by getting involved in some orphanages that already exist and devote some of her time and money to helping them."

She still found enough time to add to her enormous wardrobe, spending an hour at a craft market before hauling home TEN bags of jewellery, material, and ornaments.

Was Akon SRK's original choice, not Lady Gaga?

2011-11-02T09:16:00.000-07:00

Only after the 'Chammak Challo' crooner apparently rejected an offer to perform at the F1 after party, Lady Gaga was approached

According to the latest buzz, international pop singer Akon was originally approached to perform at the much-hyped launch of Formula 1 after party hosted by Arjun Rampal's resto-bar.

Interestingly, it was only after the singer turned down the offer, Lady Gaga was roped in.

A source says, "Shah Rukh Khan wanted Akon instead of Gaga to perform at the Formula One after parties held at Arjun Rampal's lounge.

The event was being held soon after the release of RA.One, so SRK suggested Arjun, who also stars in the film, to rope in Akon.

The marketing genius thought it would be a perfect opportunity to do the post-release promotions of the film. Since the pop star has sung the Chammak Challo song, he could perform it at the party and help promote the film."

But alas! SRK's plan to kill two birds with one stone didn't work, as Akon didn't accept his offer. Reason? The singer wasn't apparently pleased with the money offered, which was half his market price.

It was only later that Arjun's team apparently decided to approach the pop diva Lady Gaga." Both SRK and Arjun Rampal remained unavailable for comment.

Courtesy: Mid-Day.com

Asif only has himself to blame: Veena Malik

2011-11-02T09:11:00.000-07:00

MUMBAI: Actress Veena Malik reacted to the spot-fixing trial verdict and said Mohammed Asif only had himself to blame.

Speaking with Geo News after a London court found Salman Butt and Mohammed Asif guilty in the spot-fixing trial Veena Malik said this was not a surprise although she hoped for a better outcome.

“Asif was involved in these types of activities” Veena said.

Veena said she would advise Asif to stay away from these sorts of activities. “I was the only person who would tell Asif not to take part in such activity.”

The actress added that she felt sorry for Mohammed Asif because he had always told her that cricket was his first love.

Halloween 2011 - Rebecca Romijn Reveals Daughter Dolly Scared of Pumpkins

2011-11-01T07:53:00.000-07:00

Actress Rebecca Romijn said her daughter Dolly is scared of pumpkins so isn't a fan of Halloween.

The 38-year-old is mum to twin girls Dolly and Charlie, two, and spoke about her plans for the holiday on The Talk.

She said: "I've always gone really scary [and] put a Grim Reaper in the corner with a low light over it, but you can't do that with kids.

"You know how you can go in two different directions for Halloween? Really scary or really cute Halloween - I'm now going really cute Halloween!"

She revealed Dolly and Charlie have both picked their outfits for Halloween - a princess and a cowboy.

She added: "I've been taking them to get manicures and [Dolly's] been painting her nails black. All of a sudden [she] decided that everything Halloween is too scary.

"She's been taking all of the pumpkins off the porch and putting them on the side of the house."

Megan Fox Heading to Broadway for Play

2011-11-01T07:48:00.000-07:00

Hollywood actress Megan Fox is heading to Broadway for one night only.

The 25-year-old will make her theater debut in The 24 Hour Plays at the American Airlines Theatre in New York City on November 14.

Other actors who have signed up for the project include Jesse Eisenberg, John Krasinski, Julia Stiles and Jason Biggs.

Each writer, director and actor team only has 24-hours to write and rehearse a 10-minute piece for the event.

Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit the Urban Arts Partnership, an organization that promotes arts-integrated education programs in underprivileged communities.

Nilofer Shahid to represent Pakistan at World Fashion Week

2011-11-01T07:44:00.000-07:00

Pakistan will be officially welcomed at the first annual World Fashion Week (WFW) to be held in New York City in 2012. As a prelude of the historic gathering, WFW will welcome leading fashion designer Nilofer Shahid as the official representative of Pakistan during the welcoming gala in NYC set to kick off on November 11, 2011. Nilofer will join forces to encourage entrepreneurship activities, women empowerment and the eradication of global poverty, launching the global campaign “Give your Light to the World”.

Nilofer will gather with fashion icons, influential leaders and international media from five continents in a celebration of cultural diversity expressed through the artistic fashion discipline. WFW’s global campaign, “Give your Light to the World”, will further the objectives of “Fashion for Peace”. WFW and leading fashion councils in Pakistan have nominated Nilofer Shahid due to her efforts made in social and human development and women empowerment.

“As small streams come together into a boundless ocean, they create high spiritual waves and eventually bring a change with the breath of our own spirits!” said Nilofer. Nilofer Shahid is one of the pioneering fashion designers in Pakistan. She brought couture wear to the limelight in Pakistan. Her fashion house, Meeras, has been looked up to as the benchmark for elegance and regality in Pakistan. Her acclaim is not withheld in Pakistan alone; she has participated at Paris Fashion Week where juries equated her work to Dior.

Former Miss World Aishwarya Rai Celebrates 38th Birthday

2011-11-01T07:40:00.000-07:00

MUMBAI: Aishwarya Rai Bachchan turns 38 today. The mom-to-be was recently seen at the Diwali party hosted by the Bachchans.

This birthday is all set to be a landmark one for the most beautiful woman in the world as she gets set to turn mother. For the woman who appears to have it all, there's probably not much else she can wish for as she gets set to take on the role of a lifetime. Some unconfirmed reports suggest though that several gifts will be showered on her today, including expensive jewellery, a car and even a home!

India's most awaited baby is expected on November 11.

Saif crowned as 'nawab'

2011-11-01T07:37:00.000-07:00

MUMBAI: Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan was made the new Nawab (Muslim prince) of Pataudi on Monday in a private ceremony at his ancestral home in northern India.

Khan became the 10th nawab of the former princely state after the death of his 70-year-old father, Mansur Ali Khan, in September.

The elder Khan, nicknamed "Tiger Pataudi" for his brilliant fielding, captained India at cricket while his father, Ifthikar Ali Khan, played for both India and England.

Saif Ali Khan, 41, is one of Hindi-language cinema's biggest stars and was recently seen in the thriller "Aarakshan" (Reservation) alongside Amitabh Bachchan.

Monday's ceremony was held at the family seat of Pataudi Palace in Haryana state and attended by relatives and local villagers, said Rohini Iyer, Khan's spokeswoman in Mumbai.

Village chiefs tied a turban around his head at a ceremony watched by his mother, former actress Sharmila Tagore and his two sisters, television footage showed.

Pataudi was a princely state in pre-independence India while the nawabs, who can trace their lineage back centuries, were its aristocratic rulers.

Like the heads of other erstwhile Indian princely states that were taken over after the British left in 1947, the title is now ceremonial with no formal powers. (AFP)

Stuntman dies on Stallone film shoot in Bulgaria

2011-11-01T07:34:00.000-07:00

LOS ANGELES: A stuntman has died and another was injured on a film shoot for star-studded Hollywood action sequel "The Expendables 2" in Bulgaria, the production company said.

The incident occurred while the two men were shooting a scene involving an explosion in a rubber boat near a dam on Lake Ognyanovo in southwestern Bulgaria last Thursday, media reports said.

The accident "resulted in one fatality and one injury," said a spokesman for the production, while the Sofia Echo English-language newspaper said the injured man underwent five hours of surgery.

The main production unit for the movie, written by Sylvester Stallone, was shooting in the mountain resort village of Bansko, two and a half hours away, said the spokesman.

"It is with great regret that we confirm this unfortunate accident," added a statement by producers Image/Millennium Films. "Our hearts go out to the families and those on the production affected by this tragedy.

"The filmmakers are working closely with the authorities in responding to and investigating this accident," it added, giving no further details of the incident.

"The Expendables 2," starring "Rocky" actor Stallone as well as Arnold Schwarzenegger, Bruce Willis and Jean-Claude Van Damme, is a follow-up to the 2010 action blockbuster.

The sequel is due for release in August next year. (AFP)

Hrithik's red-hot new girl,"Esha Gupta"

2011-10-30T13:14:00.000-07:00

It seems like searching for Hrithik's leading lady in Krrish 2 has become a game of musical chairs that will not end. A role which has some grey shades to it had been offered to Kangna Ranaut and Sonakshi Sonakshi at first but both of them refused to be part of the film.

Eventually, Chitrangda Singh accepted it only to walk out suddenly citing date problems (read tiff with the Roshans). And finally, when we heard the news of Jacqueline Fernandez pairing up with Duggu little did we know she'll depart soon as well making way for a newbie and a popular model Esha Gupta.

Esha won the Miss India International title in 2007, and represented the country in the Miss International 2007 contest. She has also featured in the Kingfisher calendar.

Her sex appeal had earlier won her a role in Bhatt's Jannat 2, which Prachi Desai and Paoli Dam were considered for.

Buoyant with her recent project fishing Esha considers herself as a serious contender for THE next Bollywood babe title.

"I think I'm going to make it really big. So I don't need a back-up plan. I might model till the age of 34 or 35, but by that time I will be already settled and have a family," she told a leading daily.

But when asked about how she plans to tackle the competition from star kids, and other models crossing over into B-town, she said: "I enrolled in an acting school and have been brushing up on my dancing skills. Fortunately, I have a good handle on my Hindi diction. But times are changing - on one hand we have models who have done really well onscreen and then there are actors who can't act."

"I guess it's easy to break into the industry, but not easy to make it big. I've been lucky because I got the best project," she added.

Spielberg confirms 'Jurassic Park 4'

2011-10-30T13:09:00.000-07:00

Hollywood director Steven Spielberg has confirmed that he is working on the fourth instalment of "Jurassic Park" and that the sequel will be an improvement from the last one, which was released in 2001.

"The screenplay is being written right now by Mark Protosevich. I'm hoping that will come out in the next couple of years. We have a good story. We have a better story for IV than we had for III, " contactmusic. com quoted the 64-year-old as saying.

Based on the best-selling Michael Crichton novel, "Jurassic Park" was a cult in itself and went on to gross $350 million in the US when released in 1993.

Starring Sam Neill and Jeff Goldblum, the movie spawned two sequels.

Rakhi seeks Anna Hazare's help for her 'Choos Le' song

2011-10-30T13:04:00.000-07:00

When Rakhi Sawant is angry, not many in the country can have the guts to stop her! The latest to face the ire of Bollywood’s biggest firecracker, is none other than the Censor Board, for having bleeped out the words ‘Choos Le’ (suck) from her song ‘Jawani Ki Bank Loot Le’ in her upcoming film Loot.

Rakhi insists that though the words could be controversial in nature when singled out, in her song, they have been used aptly and with the right connotations, without any vulgar or offensive meaning.

“If the Censor Board can pass songs like ‘Bhaag D.K. Bose’ (Delhi Belly) and ‘Jhak Maar Ke’ (Desi Boyz), why should they have a bias towards my song ‘Jawani Ki Bank Loot Le.’ Why am I being targeted by the Board, whereas John Abraham, Deepika Padukone and Imran Khan can get away with it,” Rakhi questions.

But since the Censor Board is in no mood to listen, Rakhi has decided to march straight up to India’s most famous anti- corruption crusader Anna Hazare with her plea.

Confirming this, her publicist Dale Bhagwagar says, “It is true that Rakhi has decided to approach Anna Hazare. She is currently doing her research on songs which she considers vulgar and objectionable.”

He adds, “She plans to carry their videos and CD’s to Mr Hazare’s village Ralegan Siddhi in Ahmednagar. Rakhi wants Mr Hazare to judge for himself, whether her song ‘Jawani Ki Bank Loot Le’ is vulgar compared to the others passed by the Censor Board.”

Just for the record, the lyrics of Rakhi’s song read, “Main russ malaai hoon, jannat se aayee hoon, saamne parosi hoon, aake choos le… hey… saiyaan jawani ki bank loot le.”

Celebrities: Caught on camera

2011-10-30T13:01:00.000-07:00

With every appearance watched and noted, celebrities have to live their lives appearing at their best — both physically and morally — or they risk a backlash as adulation turns to demonisation. However, more often are the times when standards slip and some surprising behaviour comes through.

One such case risking the wrath of his fans is Omar Sharif. The 79-year-old veteran actor was caught on video apparently slapping a persistant fan at an awards show in Qatar, revealed British newspaper the Daily Mail. Sharif, present at the Doha Tribeca Film Festival, rebuked a woman for queue-jumping. “My dear!” Sharif exclaimed in Arabic, as translated by the Washington Post, “I told you I’d get to you afterwards! I just said that and you’re standing here. Put something in your brain!” While his alleged blow was not seen from the camera’s position behind the woman’s head, celebrity gossip website TMZ quoted an unnamed journalist present as tweeting “Omar Sharif just hit a woman. Very stupidly, in front of a camera.”

Afterwards, however, Sharif became calmer and posed with the embarrassed looking — but still smiling — fan. The incident has led to much reflection on Sharif’s past bursts of violence — in 2003, he was convicted of violence towards a police officer in France, and in 2007 pleaded no contest to charges of battery against a parking attendant in the US.

Also catching attention for his behaviour — albeit ending up on the receiving end of aggression — was American singer Usher. He was confronted by an angry woman after apparently parking in a disabled bay, according to TMZ. Like the incident with Sharif, Usher’s confrontation was captured on video by an onlooker.

The R&B singer was accosted by a woman at a shopping centre in Atlanta near a Halloween parade after he took the liberty of parking his SUV in a handicapped spot. The video reavealed that the woman, apparently angered by the (able-bodied) singer’s illegal parking, approached his car and reportedly sprayed beer from a can at Usher while he was still sitting in the driver’s seat with the window down. Usher retaliated and splashed the woman with his water bottle, which prompted her to kick his driver’s side door until he exited the car, TMZ said. The woman angrily shouted, “You don’t belong here!” and repeatedly lunged at him, before being pulled away by her husband.

However, while Sharif and Usher would undoubtedly prefer their fans not seeing them in less-than-ideal situations, Hollywood actor Demi Moore went the exact same way. Moore has been accused of lashing out at a photographer, who followed her on a trip to a nail salon in Los Angeles, reported aceshowbiz.com.
On October 28, while exiting Jessica Nail Clinic in West Hollywood’s Sunset Plaza, Moore lashed out at a photographer when he approached her for a picture. She is said to have hurled obscenities at him before reportedly lunging at his camera, stunning on-lookers recalled.

An eyewitness disclosed to aceshowbiz.com that the paparazzo “physically jumped in front of [Demi], basically entrapping her, pushing his body and camera into her so she couldn’t walk or move.” The photographer also added, “Demi was crazy; she was totally losing it. I was just standing on the sidewalk, trying to get a few shots of her and she was going completely mad. She tried to jump on me and swipe my camera.” The actor, it’s said, is in stress following reports that her marriage to Ashton Kutcher is falling apart.

'The Adventures of Tintin' gets mixed reviews overseas

2011-10-30T12:57:00.000-07:00

LOS ANGELES: "The Adventures of Tintin: The Secret of the Unicorn," Steven Spielberg's 3-D take on Georges Remi's treasured comic books, is already a hit overseas with audiences. But what about the critics?

Overseas opinionators vary wildly in their assessments, with some heaping on the praise and one British critic reacting violently against it.

In Belgium, where the comic books originated, the newspaper Le Soir, takes a positive view of the film -- we think. According to the translation program we ran their review through, "The Adventures of Tintin" is "a popular and general public film, which alternates in a tasty way the exotic film of adventure, play of track Hitchcockian and the picaresque comedy."

So ... it's eclectic?

Alas, the film earned a huge thumbs-down from the Guardian's literary critic, Nicholas Lezard. A self-professed lifelong Tintin fan, Lezard likens the film to a sexual assault.

"Coming out of the new Tintin film directed by Steven Spielberg, I found myself, for a few seconds, too stunned and sickened to speak; for I had been obliged to watch two hours of literally senseless violence being perpetrated on something I loved dearly," Lezard writes. "In fact, the sense of violation was so strong that it felt as though I had witnessed a rape."

In France, Spielberg's interpretation of Tintin appears to be considered tres bien. L'Express lauds the filmmaker for crafting an adaptation that isn't afraid to break with Remi's vision, but remains lovingly faithful in its own way.

Spielberg allows to reinvent certain sides of history, and to make some winks," the paper notes. Even so, the review adds, "One feels all the affection which it carries to its characters."

France's Cinema Teaser praises the film's "sublime" opening-credits sequence, as well as the much-ballyhooed technology behind the film. It says that "The Adventures of Tintin: The Secret of the Unicorn" proves "that the performance capture can definitively cause life when it is used by a large scenario writer."

England's Empire Online also makes special note of the film's performance-capture technology, noting that it lends itself to "endless chase sequences." However, the review concludes that it's the heart beating underneath the bells and whistles that makes "The Adventures of Tintin" a captivating read.

"You have a job keeping up, but never at the expense of the sheer goodwill," the review posits. "While luxuriating in its pre-existing universe, here is a film imploring you to join in. It would take a hard heart to resist."

Overall, Empire concludes, "The Adventures of Tintin" is "action-packed, gorgeous, and faithfully whimsical." (Reuters)

Kareena Kapoor’s wax statue unveiled

2011-10-30T12:55:00.000-07:00

LONDON: Bollywood superstar Kareena Kapoor finally came face to face with her brand new wax figure at Madame Tussauds Blackpool on Thursday, October 27th.

The unveiling marked the launch of the attraction’s all new Bollywood exhibition, which will be at Madame Tussauds until January 2012.

The look of her wax statue, which was widely discussed in the industry and amongst fans, is from the popular song ‘Mauja Mauja’ from Jab We Met, a film that changed Kapoor’s career.

The actress arrived on the red carpet with her mother Babita Kapoor, a former Bollywood actress to unveil her statue.

Tell Me O Kkhuda is a dull fare (Movie Review)

2011-10-29T12:54:00.000-07:00

The story of Tell Me O Kkhuda, revolving around a girl, who upon discovering she was an orphan goes in search of her parents, immediately reminds you of the Hollywood film, Mamma Mia.

In Mamma Mia, however, the central character (played by Amanda Seyfried) is only looking for her father while her mother (Meryl Streep) is by her side.

There are three candidates as the potential papa in the Hollywood flick, and there are three potential fathers in this one too. But hold it, that's where the comparison ends. While Mamma Mia was a delightful musical, with stellar performances, Tell Me O Kkhuda is more or less a drag.

Tanya's (Esha) search for her parents also reminds us of Hema Malini's earlier direction, Dil Aashna Hai. After 26 years of being wonderfully brought up by her adoptive parents (Farukh Shaikh and Deepti Naval), novelist Tanya discovers that she is an adopted child. So her quest to find her 'real' parents begin and this leads her to Rajasthan, Turkey and Goa.

She has two friends (Arjun Bajwa and Chandan Roy Sanyal), who seem unemployed enough to accompany her wherever she goes.

In the course of her self-searching trip, she meets potential dads in the form of royalty (Vinod Khanna), a doting husband (Rishi Kapoor) and a don (Dharmendra).

A wonderful way to bring together three of the best looking yesteryears actors only if they had been utilised better. And of course, it is nice seeing Farukh and Deepti back together.

But only the feel-good factors (there are plenty) don't make a movie worth watching.

The story is outdated and not really exciting. I liked the first part better, because it deftly deals with the issue of female foeticide and also because of a gripping camel race.

The protagonist Tanya is largely a weepy character, even though she shows some gumption in parts. So there is not much that Esha Deol could do. Even then she could have done better.

Largely insipid, with some rare exciting moments, makes this film a dull fare.

Courtesy: Mid-Day.com

Ra.One makes highest ever Diwali collections

2011-10-29T12:45:00.000-07:00

While all movie buffs were anticipating the release of SRK’s Ra.One & been dying to know the shape of its fate, there are mixed views about how the movie has actually faired.

Released on 26th October, worldwide, on the auspicious day of Diwali celebrations, we barely expected unbeatable numbers due to the generic festive mood.

However, Shah Rukh Khan's Ra.One did surprise the people when the official numbers came out. So, the film grossed Rs. 26.5 crores with a net of Rs. 18.5 crores on Wednesday 26th October making it the highest ever Diwali day collection in the history of Indian cinema especially in the last 14 years.

The second day collections on Thursday 27th October were even more impressive with the film raking in Rs. 36 crores gross with a net of Rs. 25.10 crores net making it the highest collection ever for a single day for an Indian film.

What is to be seen is whether this is just another number game or this movie has managed to raise the bar for Indian Cinema with its vfx, marketing & a new story to tell.

For now, looks like the crab mentality of Indian cinema is about to breakfree.

Lady Gaga surprises India with tricolour hairdo

2011-10-29T12:39:00.000-07:00

Simple yet elegant - Lady Gaga chose to leave her bizarre dressing style back home for her first formal appearance here Friday. She wore a one-shoulder gown by an Indian designer, added the desi twist with a tricolour hairdo, and greeted the audience with a confident "Namaste".

"Namaste everyone! I am so glad to be here. I could never even imagine that I would get to come to India and perform and meet my new, amazing fans that are here in India. So I would like to say thank you to all of you. My deepest gratitude," Gaga told reporters.

The 25-year-old global pop icon, who is here to perform at the F1 after-party in Greater Noida Sunday, made a stylish entrance wearing a pair of black shades.

She wore a sparkling neckpiece with simple earrings to match, but what attracted was her bouffant, which had streaks of saffron and green - colours of the Indian flag.

"Today I am wearing a dress by Naeem Khan, an Indian designer based out of New York," she said.

Best known for songs like "Poker face", "Just dance", and her latest hit number "Born This Way", Gaga says she may be known for bizarre sense of style, but she is like any other girl.

"My personal style is like any girl really...I wake up and I put on whatever makes me feel good....quite often I end up wearing my old leather jacket with a pair of fishnets," added Gaga, who feels "the sights in India are beautiful, but the most beautiful sight is that of the people".

Though she is excited about performing for her fans Sunday, she is already looking forward to coming back to India soon, as she said: "I can't wait come back...to see more of India and to get to know more of the fans here."

My performance will have Indian influence
She claims to have been "dying" to come and perform in India, and now that she will finally take centrestage at the F1 after-party Sunday, international pop star Lady Gaga says fans will get a taste of her modern touch but with an Indian influence.

"I want to surprise you all...I've been working with the House of Gaga for a month now to make it beautiful. There will be some Indian influence (in my performance), but I have modernised it in my way. It will be a hybrid between my vision and the vision in India," Gaga told reporters here Friday.

The singer, who has made it big in the international music scene with her albums "The Fame" (2008), "The Fame Monster" (2009) and "Born This Way" (2011), is looking forward to the D-day.

The F1 after-parties, to be held as part of the Airtel Grand Prix of India, will take place at a special, 20,000 sq ft construction at the Jaypee Greens Golf and Spa Resort in Greater Noida. They are being hosted by lounge bar Lap, co-owned by actor Arjun Rampal and restaurateur A.D.Singh.

Gaga has special plans for her India gig.

"I worked very hard. I have built a special stage for this show - it is unique for India...it has never been done anywhere else in the world, and I will be incorporating also, the collaborations with some of the Indian DJs into the performance.

It will be shown on television here in India. And as I said, I have been working very hard on this, and I have been dying to come here and perform. I am excited about it," she added.

Her show is totally sold out, despite a whopping ticket price of Rs.40,000. But those who will miss the joy of watching the pop star live, can catch the action on UTV Stars in November.

Shah Rukh Khan 'to interview Lady GaGa in India'

2011-10-29T12:36:00.000-07:00

Actor Shah Rukh Khan will interview Lady GaGa during her visit to India this weekend.

The Hindustan Times reports that the two stars will meet for an exclusive face-to-face interview at Arjun Rampal's Delhi nightclub Lap on October 30.

Keith Alphonso, business head of UTV Bindass, said: "For the longest time we have felt that Lady GaGa personified the spirit of our channel and her trip to India to perform live during the F1 grand finale gave us an opportunity to fix a one-on-one interaction between the global popstar and Shah Rukh Khan, who is our own global rockstar.

"Her concert is only for a limited audience but for this encounter, which is an initiative of UTV Bindass, we have got her nod for having 25-40 of her young fans on board. This is the only time in India when she will be interacting with a real audience."

Khan reportedly wanted Lady GaGa to record a song for his superhero film RA.One, but they were unable to coordinate their schedules.

Khan previously said that he was inspired by Lady GaGa.

The interview will be aired on UTV Stars and UTV Bindass in November.

Lady GaGa: 'I love Bollywood'

2011-10-29T12:32:00.000-07:00

Lady GaGa has arrived in Delhi for a three day tour of India.

The singer will perform after the Formula One Indian Grand Prix, which is taking place in Uttar Pradesh.

Speaking to NDTV, the Born This Way singer said: "Thank you so much for having me. I'm so excited to be here. India is so beautiful and even more beautiful are the people. I am so excited to be here and I feel so welcome. Thank you."

When asked about her rumoured collaboration with Shah Rukh Khan, the singer said:

"There is nothing in the works right now, but I love the culture and I love Bollywood."

GaGa, who has previously met Priyanka Chopra, said that the Don star is one of her favourite Bollywood actresses.

"I love Priyanka. She's very beautiful and lovely. I'm very excited for her musical career. I don't think Priyanka needs any advice from me."

Sir Jimmy Savile dies, aged 84

2011-10-29T12:30:00.000-07:00

Sir Jimmy Savile has died at his home at the age of 84.

The DJ and TV presenter, most famous for his show Jim'll Fix It, was just two days away from his 85th birthday.

Police were called to his address in Roundhay, Leeds at 12.10pm, where they discovered his body. His death is not being treated as suspicious.

Last month, it was reported that Sir Jimmy had been taken to Leeds General Infirmary after suffering a bout of pneumonia. It is as yet unknown whether the illness was the cause of his death.

Friend and fellow DJ Dave Lee Travis paid tribute to Sir Jimmy, saying: "For some unknown reason, with Jim, you couldn't anticipate that he wasn't going to be around anymore - he was such a powerful presence.

"He was one of the first DJs that actually became a personality."

Born in 1926, Sir Jimmy was the youngest of seven children, and worked in the coal mines during the war.

He became a Radio 1 DJ before fronting the original series of Top of the Pops in 1964. In 1975, he landed his own family show, Jim'll Fix It. At its peak, the show attracted 20,000 letters every week from children and adults who wanted the host to grant their wish.

Renowned for his trademark tracksuits, gold chains and cigars, he was also extremely charitable, and is thought to have raised more than £40m for good causes in his lifetime. A long-time friend of members of the royal family, he was knighted by the Queen in 1990.

Former Radio 1 DJ Mike Read said: "He was an exceptional character in a world that's got greyer, more normal, more dull. He was a one off. He was the first to go into halls and clubs and play records. You knew it was Jimmy, he stood out in the crowd. He was pure, pure showbiz."

James Cameron unveils scenes from Titanic 3D

2011-10-29T12:26:00.000-07:00

Hollywood director James Cameron has unveiled an 18-minute footage from his new 3D version of the 1997 mega-blockbuster hit 'Titanic'.

The new version of the Oscar-winning film will arrive in theaters on April 6 next year, said the Hollywood Reporter.

Eight scenes were screened so far, including footage of Jack Dawson (Leonardo DiCaprio) and Rose DeWitt Bukater's (Kate Winslet) encounter on the Titantic's grand stairwell, their kiss on the bow of the ship and its sinking.

"There are certain films that aren't being brought back to the theater. There is a whole generation of people who haven't seen it at all," Cameron said.

The 1997 disaster epic is being converted into 3D at a cost of USD 18 million and the process, which is ongoing, is expected to take 60 weeks.

Titantic grossed USD 1.84 billion worldwide and won 11 Oscars, including those for best picture and best director.

It is the second highest grossing film of all time, behind Cameron's own Avatar, which grossed nearly double that amount.

Cameron also said that while he is typically very much against converting traditional films into 3D, he believes the conversion enriches the film.

"I totally believe 3D is an enhancement for the dramatic scenes not just the big action," he added.

The director said that there would be no changes to the content of the film.

Shah Rukh Khan to collaborate with Lady GaGa?

2011-10-28T10:17:00.000-07:00

Shah Rukh Khan is reportedly still keen on working with Lady GaGa despite failures to co-ordinate schedules for recording a Ra.One track.

The science fiction superhero film features music from Grammy nominee Akon, as well as cameos from Amitabh Bachchan and Rajinkanth.

A source told The Times of India: "Either Shah Rukh was busy with the post-production of RA.One or Lady GaGa's dates couldn't be worked out.

"The song couldn't be shot for the film, although composers Vishal-Shekhar had already composed a tune for Lady GaGa to record."

Director Abuhav Sinha confirmed that the Bollywood veteran had been in touch with the international pop icon.

"Shah Rukh was very keen on working with Lady GaGa," Sinha said. "In fact, we were supposed to shoot them together for a song that would have been used with the end titles of Ra.One.

"However, we couldn't co-ordinate Shah Rukh and Lady GaGa's dates. The idea of bringing them together is still very much alive. We're working on something."

In September, Khan said that he started listening to Lady GaGa in order to reinvent himself.

The actor also reportedly planned an international tour with Akon, who sings title track 'Chammak Challo'.

Lady GaGa's Delhi concert sold out

2011-10-28T10:15:00.000-07:00

Bollywood star Arjun Rampal has said that all tickets for Lady GaGa's concert in Delhi are sold out.

The Ra.One actor is hosting the Indian Grand Prix F1 after-party event on Sunday, Mid-Day reports.

"The maximum capacity for the party is 1,000, and GaGa's show is completely sold out," said the former model.

Lady GaGa has already arrived in India ahead of her first concert in the country.

"I am finally here + what a dream come true. Performing at Formula 1 in INDIA, and my first day here I reached #15millionmonsters (sic)," she posted on Twitter on Thursday.

Rampal defended the high cost of tickets to the gig, which went on sale at Rs40,000 (£533).

"One has to understand that the costs are very high. Maybe if we had a bigger venue with capacity for more people, we could have gone easy on the price," he explained. "But with less people, it becomes difficult to lower the price. After all it's business, and we have to break even."

DJ Roger Sanchez and Edward Maya will also be performing during the F1 three-day event.

GaGa's 'Born This Way' and 'Judas' have both released in Bollywood remix versions.

Egyptian actor Omar Sharif slaps fan

2011-10-28T10:06:00.000-07:00

DOHA: Egyptian veteran actor Omar Sharif lost his temper at a film festival in Qatar and angrily slapped her fan right on the red carpet.

Sharif was at the Doha Tribeca Film Festival for a screening of one of his movies ... when a woman approached him on the red carpet ... and tried to take a picture with the 79-year-old actor.

Sharif -- who was nominated for an Oscar in 1962 for his role in "Lawrence of Arabia" -- lashed out in Arabic ... telling the woman to wait her turn ... and then slapping her.

Moments later, the woman smiled and posed for a photo with Sharif like nothing ever happened.

Watching from the video, it's unclear if Sharif made contact with the woman's face -- but one reporter who was at the scene tweeted, "Omar Sharif just hit a woman. Very stupidly, in front of a camera."

Justin Timberlake goes rogue for "In Time"

2011-10-28T10:03:00.000-07:00

LOS ANGELES: Justin Timberlake may be riding a new wave of movie stardom as his new film, "In Time," sees its release in theaters on Friday, but the singer-dancer-actor still thinks he's an ordinary man.

Timberlake takes the lead role in the sci-fi, action thriller in which director Andrew Niccol takes audiences into a world where time has become the monetary currency.

"I found it (the movie) to be very provocative and it made me ask a lot of questions about myself, some of it which I still haven't come up with the answers for, but I like when a movie does that," "The Social Network" actor told Reuters.

In a world where everyone stops physically aging at 25, Timberlake's character, Will Salas, often finds himself with just 24 hours to live, in which he must find ways to earn time in order to prolong his life. (Reuters)

Ra One breaks single day box office record

2011-10-28T10:00:00.000-07:00

MUMBAI: After failing to break the opening day box office record, Shahrukh Khan’s ‘Ra One’ has managed to make history by breaking the record for highest ticket sales in one day.

In India alone the movie took in Rs23 million on the second day of its release. ‘Ra One’ which had the largest release of any movie to date can be seen in 5,000 theatres across the world and is the most expensive India movie in history.

The movie fell short of breaking Salman Khan’s ‘Bodyguard’ opening day record.

Indian models out of fashion overseas

2011-10-27T13:44:00.000-07:00

NEW DELHI - For top Indian model Apoorva Vishwanathan, the difference between success on the catwalks of her own country and an international modelling career can be measured in inches - two of them.”I wish I had endless legs. I could be cat-walking with the Heidi Klums of the world,” said the Bangalore-based Vishwanathan who stands five feet nine inches in her bare feet. “But you’ve got to be at least 5’11” for any international fashion house to come near you,” she told AFP during the recent New Delhi Fashion Week.

Compared to the West, career modelling is still in its infancy in India, although it has made huge strides on the back of rapid economic growth and the growing profile of Indian fashion designers. Only a handful of Indian models have tasted success abroad, with the likes of Lakshmi Menon and Ujjwala Raut modelling for Gucci and Yves Saint-Laurent. The financial pay-off for those who do break out of the relatively low-paid domestic scene can be enormous, and Raut is quite frank about why she is no longer seen working the Indian fashion shows. “They can’t afford me,” she said.

Whispered allegations of racism have been made by some who tried and failed overseas, but Vishwanathan believes the main barrier is the natural body shape of Indian women. “We are genetically more voluptuous and curvaceous,” she said. “Agencies abroad want girls who are really thin, almost skinny. It is tough for us to fit into their requirements.” Another factor is that Indian models tend to start their careers much later than their Western counterparts, with parental pressure often keeping them in college until their early 20s.

Once frowned upon in conservative India as an immodest career choice, modelling grew in popularity - and acceptability - in 1994, the year former Indian models Sushmita Sen and Aishwarya Rai took the Miss Universe and Miss World titles respectively. Both went on to successful and lucrative film careers, fuelling the aspirations of millions along the way. More recently, the launch of Vogue India in 2007 heralded the start of a new fashion era and an overhaul of wardrobes of the nouveau riche.

Rikee Chatterjee, a 24-year-old up-and-coming model said her family fully supported her decision to take up modelling even before she finished her college degree. But there are some limits. Indian models generally hesitate to do lingerie work, or other shows that involve baring a lot of skin, and most lingerie ads in Indian fashion magazines use foreign models. There are also complaints of a bias against darker-skinned models in India where a light complexion is widely considered synonymous with beauty

Prince Harry Spends A Night With Waitress

2011-10-27T13:40:00.000-07:00

England’s Prince Harry apparently spent a night wioth a cocktail waitress in the US.
Harry is three weeks into an advanced weapons training course in California, apparently invited brunette Jessica Donaldson to his hotel room after a late-night drinking session.

According to staff at the Marriott hotel in Solano Beach, near San Diego, the pretty 26-year-old wasn’t seen leaving until 10.30am the next day.

Despite insisting that it ‘must have been some other girl’, Jessica, who lives with her boyfriend of three years, burly nightclub promoter Brandon Thomason, was positively identified by at least two independent sources.

The 27-year-old prince, who is third in line to the throne, met Jessica, who has a rose tattoo running across her midriff, when he visited the Ivy nightclub in San Diego, a two hour drive from his base on Friday, October 7.

She works there as a ‘bottle girl’, selling over-priced vodka to tables of wealthy punters at £350 a time.

Harry, who was with a large group of army air corps colleagues as well as his Scotland Yard security detail, bought two bottles and began chatting to Jessica.

At the end of the night, a man she believed was one of his bodyguards asked for her number and said the prince would like to meet her for brunch the next day.

People think I am gay: Clarkson

2011-10-27T13:36:00.000-07:00

Singer Kelly Clarkson finds it tough to return home and meet friends and family in her native Texas because people there think that she is a gay.

For the 29-year-old, it is hard to find a boyfriend because of her busy career, but friends back home don't understand the fact and ask questions about her sexuality.

"I'm from a small town, so everyone's, like, married with children, having children or about to have children, so it's a little hard when you go home... and that's why people think I'm gay,? femalefirst.co.uk quoted Clarkson as saying.

"They're like, 'I don't understand why you're not married.' And I'm like, 'Well, it's not like that, it doesn't happen for everyone.' For Burleson, in Texas... I'm an old maid!" she added.

Actor Ronit Roy Arrested

2011-10-27T13:34:00.000-07:00

Actor Ronit Roy was arrested here Thursday after his car rammed into another car injuring three of its four occupants, including a woman who is in critical condition. A court later granted him bail.

The incident occurred on the Link Road near Amboliin the Andheri West suburb around 6.30 a.m. The other car was thrown off the road and overturned.

The 42-year-old actor was driving his Mercedes at a high speed when he rammed into the oncoming car in which a family was travelling.

The victims have been identified as Deepak Darera, 60, his wife Kanta, 55, and their daughters Pooja, 24, and Sneha, 28, police said.

Three of the four members of the Darera family from Lokhandwala Complex in Andheri were injured. One of them is reported to be critical at the Kokilaben Ambani Hospital.

Following a complaint by the victims, Roy was arrested and presented before a holiday magistrate in Bandra.

Charged under Indian Penal Code Section 279 (rash driving) and 338 (causing grievous injury endangering lives), Roy was released on bail of Rs.12,000 in the afternoon.

Police are awaiting his medical report to ascertain whether he was drunk at the time of the accident.

While Sneha escaped with negligible bruises, Pooja received a few cuts on her head which had to be stitched, while their father sustained hand injuries. Kanta Darera suffered severe injuries on the back and is undergoing treatment.

At the time of the incident, Roy was returning from a Diwali party and the Darera family was on way to spend the weekend at the Matheran hill station in adjacent Raigad district, police said.

Moments after the accident, Roy got out of his car and helped the victims by taking them to hospital in a cab, and left without informing police.

The police acted only after the victims complained and arrested Roy.

Pooja told mediapersons outside the police station that Roy was zooming at over 100 kmph speed and hit their vehicle.

The usually crowded Link Road, one of the main thoroughfares linking north-south suburbs from Borivli to Bandra in the city, was almost deserted on account of the festival holidays at the time of the incident.

The actor started his career with the movie "Jaan Tere Naam" in 1992 and later featured in "Kisna". Last year, he acted in film "Udaan".

He earned popularity on television with shows like "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi", "Kasautii Zindagi Kay" and "Bandini". Currently he stars as a successful lawyer in the weekly show "Adaalat".

Hot Esha Gupta to endorse international swimwear line?

2011-10-27T13:32:00.000-07:00

If all goes well, popular model Esha Gupta, who will make her acting debut with "Jannat 2", might become the face of an American lingerie brand in India.

The bold and beautiful girl is rumoured to have been offered the chance to be endorse the swimwear line of the lingerie label, details of which have been kept under wraps.

"The brand people want to shoot as soon as possible. But Esha is currently shooting for 'Jannat 2'. So she has asked them to wait till April 2012, " said a source close to Esha.

Esha won the Miss India International title in 2007, and represented the country in the Miss International 2007 contest.

She has also featured in the Kingfisher calendar.

Lewis Hamilton confirms Nicole Scherzinger split

2011-10-27T13:29:00.000-07:00

Lewis Hamilton has confirmed his split with Nicole Scherzinger.

Speaking for the first time following reports of the pair's break-up, the Formula One driver told PA that despite ending their four-year romance he will remain close with the singer and X Factor judge.

Hamilton said: "Yeah, we're friends at least and we can move forward. It's never easy going through tough times.

"It's these kind of times that are sent to try you, and it's about how you pull through them. I've my family who are helping, so I feel pretty good."

The 26-year-old added: "I've many more days coming up with my family over Christmas and all that, so I'm really looking forward to it.

"I'm just trying to look forward now, and we've three good races coming up, so I'm just trying to keep my mind focused on business."

Working with Shah Rukh Khan on Ra.One was a pleasure'

2011-10-26T08:20:00.000-07:00

Kareena Kapoor has spoken about her experience of working on Ra.One.

Talking to Digital Spy, the actress said that she was grateful to be a part of such a landmark movie.

"Just the fact that's it's India's biggest and most ambitious film, and it had me in it, is an absolute honour.

"I've known Shah Rukh and Gauri [Khan] for years and they are very, very dear friends of mine, so just working with [Shah Rukh] is the most pleasurable experience," she said.

Kapoor, who plays Khan's wife in the film, explained that, unlike the other members of the cast, she was not called on to do any stunts.

"That was my condition to signing on for this movie, that I didn't do stunts. I just wanted to be pretty and look glamorous. It was different playing the role of a wife, especially when my last film was as a college student. I love acting. I live for it. I like to play real people," she added.

The 31-year-old star is also due to travel to Blackpool tomorrow (October 27) for the unveiling of her waxwork at Madame Tussaud's touring exhibition.

Speaking about the unveiling, she said: "I'm very happy that my fans in the UK and all the Asian fans wanted me in Madame Tussaud's. It's such an honour. My mum is coming in tomorrow, so she will be there."

Vidya's 'jhatkas' catch attention

2011-10-26T08:11:00.000-07:00

The television campaign for The Dirty Picture has taken a full frontal approach (pun intended) with Vidya Balan's brazen act crossing even those boundaries that seemed unassailable when the first theatrical promo came out recently. While the makers seem to be pushing the envelope with every passing juncture, the latest being her song 'Ooh La La', many in the industry are questioning if Vidya's moves are justified for a film that boasts of such an A-grade setup.

"This is unbelievable," says a prominent director on condition of anonymity. "I understand that the makers of The Dirty Picture are attempting celebrating the life of a sexy screen diva, but what we see is beyond imagination. I guess what we saw so far in true terms was 'just a trailer'. I suppose it will take a while before we come to terms with Vidya Balan's daring new avatar."

A trade guru points out, "The tantalizing promos have done the initial trick. The makers have clearly shown that they have an eye on the box office run. And the fact that something so different is coming from Milan Luthria and Vidya Balan, who are known for a different kind of cinema, has also added to the shock and curiosity value."

"It is a conscious call," says Milan sounding surprisingly cool. "There is always a handful of people trying to become self-appointed moral crusaders and creating issues when there are none. This handful is not even representative of the Indian audience at large so no one takes them seriously. We have the Censor Board whose decision we will follow. In any case, when the audience watches the final film, all this talk will be put to rest."

He adds, "We have made a progressive film here. So much is changing on television that it's shocking. I am merely moving ahead with the times and exploring different genres. I could have gone ahead and made another gangster movie after Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai. However, I chose to change genres. I have done that even earlier in my career when Kachche Dhaage and Taxi No. 9211 worked. With The Dirty Picture, I thought it was finally time to come out with something that hasn't really been attempted before."

Milan concurs that the film has generated sufficient interest substantially in advance of its release. "I understand that people are floored, more so because it is Vidya on screen. However, I know the path I have followed. Some language and visuals might seem brazen but while certain directors may have kept it way too carnal and others way too subtle, I have found my own way."

Singer Amy Winehouse poisoned by alcohol: inquest

2011-10-26T08:06:00.000-07:00

LONDON: Singer Amy Winehouse was more than five times over the legal British drink-drive limit when she died, an inquest heard Wednesday, as a coroner delivered a verdict of death by misadventure.

Winehouse, 27, was found dead at her London home on July 23 following years of alcohol and drug addiction.

The inquest, in London, was told she had drunk heavily after abstaining from alcohol for three weeks and was poisoned by alcohol.

The singer had 416 milligrammes of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood. The legal drink-drive limit is 80mg.

Coroner Suzanne Greenway said: "She had consumed sufficient alcohol at 416mg per decilitre (of blood) and the unintended consequence of such potentially fatal levels was her sudden and unexpected death."

Her father Mitch Winehouse has said that his daughter made repeated attempts to quit alcohol but without any medical supervision.

Following her death, Winehouse's 2006 album "Back to Black" has become the Britain's highest-selling album of the 21st century. (AFP)
She rocketed to fame after winning five Grammy awards off the back of "Back
to Black" and famously sang about her refusal to seek treatment for her
addiction in her single "Rehab".

Jolie's 'In the Land of Blood and Honey' trailer revealed

2011-10-26T08:03:00.000-07:00

HOLLYWOOD: The trailer of Angelina Jolie's debut movie as director 'In the Land of Blood and Honey' has been released. The movie depicts a troubled relationship spanning the divide of the war in Bosnia

It is set against the backdrop of the Bosnian war, caused outrage when the media reported that the plot revolved around a Bosnian rape victim falling in love with her Serbian attacker.

According to the synopsis, the movie is a wartime love story between a Serb guard in a prison camp and his former girlfriend, a Bosnian Muslim detainee and does not contain any rape scenes. Jolie said that she was the victim of "unfair pressure based on wrong information" and eventually had her filming permissions restored.

Don 2 trailer released

2011-10-25T10:04:00.000-07:00

MUMBAI: Bollywood producers Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani unveiled the first look of their forthcoming sequel film 'Don 2: the Chase Continues’.

Akhtar, who is also the director of the film, interacted with media on the occasion. He admitted that he was not in favour of a sequel to his earlier gangster film, 'Don: The chase begins again' but the incredible fascination he had for the character finally did him in.

"A really fun, challenging, yet at the same time an extremely satisfying journey so far, to make this movie. I was guilty of saying that I probably won't do a sequel to Don when the first one was released. But my obsession with this character got the better of me. And of course, with amazing help and support and almost a sharing of vision with Ritesh and with Shahrukh Khan, and the rest of the team, we are here today and showing you the trailer and I hope that you do enjoy the film and do watch it," Akhtar added.

When asked about the decision to release the film in 3D computer graphics, Akhtar said that it was not pre-determined, and was decided much later after many brainstorming sessions with the cast and producers of the film. (Reuters)

British beauty reveals ‘votes for sex’ ordeal

2011-10-25T01:09:00.000-07:00

An international pageant turned out to be an ordeal for British beauty queen, Amy Willerton, after she was asked for sex in exchange for votes. Willerton, 19, was forced to flee Miss Asia Pacific World contest in South Korea after three ‘shambolic’ days.

She also claimed that she was sexually assaulted by organisers and sponsors, was fed just one meal per day, and was made to stay in a room with no bed.

“It was absolutely horrendous,” the Daily Mail quoted her as saying.

“I had two of the organisers sexually assault me - one tried to pull my top down.”

“When we posed with sponsors they also tried to stick a hand somewhere inappropriate.”

Willerton was completely aghast to see the atrocious conditions prevailing at the venue.

“Girls were pulled aside and told they knew what they had to do if they wanted to win - we all knew they meant sex.”

When she reported the matter to the police, she was shocked to see officials openly bribing local officers with cash.

After arriving home Amy was disgusted to learn that the eventual winner of the 12,700 pounds first prize was none other than the local entrant, Miss South Korea.

Amy is now looking to launch legal action against the competition organisers.

Veena Malik plays real-life sex worker

2011-10-25T00:17:00.000-07:00

After all the controversies in "Bigg Boss 4" and shooting an item song, Pakistani model Veena Malik has bagged the biographical role of a sex worker.

Veena will be playing the role of sex worker Madhuri, who has been moonlighting for years to support her family.

The actress has been very quietly meeting sex workers here, particularly Madhuri, for the film "Zindagi 50-50".

"This film has changed my life and my attitude to women and sex workers in particular.

"I insisted on playing Madhuri. Koi connect hai (some connection is there)... I don't know what it was. But I instantly empathized with Madhuri's responsibilities towards her large family," Veena said.

"Maybe because I come from a family of five daughters and one son. But I understand what it feels like to be a woman in a male-dominated society. I've always supported myself, been on my own since adulthood," she noted.

Veena spent hours with Madhuri to know about her dual life.

"In the daytime she's a normal middle-class girl. In the night she puts on her burqa and goes to work in the red-light area, just like any normal working girl," Veena added.

"I loved the dignity that Madhuri brings to her life and her work. I hope I am able to convey the same dignity in my performance," Veena stated.

"Who cares about sex workers? I am appalled by the way they live in the red-light areas, not just in India but across Asia. These women deserve a much better life," felt Veena.

Be-Careful - Don't watch this movie!

2011-10-25T00:14:00.000-07:00

High on testosterone and low on IQ, "Be-Careful" is an eyesore. Inspired by films like "Masti" and "No Entry", this comic drama is the story of two promiscuous and wanton husbands Sameer (Rajneish Duggal) and Anand (Zaid Hamid).

The movie begins with Sameer, a businessman, interviewing a prospective employee. "What's your name?" he asks. "Meri lele," comes the reply. Sameer pounces on the woman, she resists. Following the commotion, Sameer's business partner Anand enters the cabin, only to repeat the sequence.

Later, the candidate clears the confusion that her name is Mary and she is married to one Mr. Lele, hence her name in Mary Lele.

Fed-up with the antics of their husbands, their wives -- Anjali (Tanisha Mukherjee) and Kiran (Kiran Rathore), along with their fathers-in-law Asrani and Tiku Talsania, try to teach a lesson to the wannabe studs.

The men are banished without money to a Thailand hotel with several restrictions that would even put a monastery to shame. But Alas! They are hard to reform.

All the comedians in the film, right from Rajpal Yadav, Sanjay Mishra, Asrani, Tiku Talsania to Shakti Kapoor are wasted. With a wafer thin and a shoddily put script, non-energetic performances and a jarring screenplay, the film gives a jolt to one's sensibilities.

The film tilts heavily on done-to-death scenes, puns and linguistic errors. With heavy punning on names like - Lele, Bure Lal (Shakti Kapoor), Kujlee, U-ganda, this film is no laugh riot by any imagination. Also with dialogues like, "Hey, smart, dashing, handsome, awesome, how have you changed the mausam?" This film is sheer trash.

On the technical front, though Najeeb Khan's cinematography is decent, the visual impact is lost due to the various special effects, making the film look gimmicky.

The music is nothing to write about. The item number "Will you be my Maahiye" starring Tulip Joshi is run of the mill. The loud screechy background score and hollow audiography is another sore point of the film.

A word for director Chandrakant Singh. He has not improved since his first film "Rama Rama Kya Hai Drama".

Paranormal Activity 3 rules US box office

2011-10-25T00:05:00.000-07:00

NEW YORK: "Paranormal Activity 3" vanquished the box-office ghosts this weekend, taking in a whopping $54 million upon its premiere in the US, according to studio estimates.

The other two new films in wide release this weekend, however, flopped. An expensive 3-D version of "The Three Musketeers" grossed a disappointing $8.8 million. And "Johnny English Reborn," a comedy starring British comedian Rowan Atkinson, did not resonate with American audiences. While the film is a hit overseas, it collected a weak $3.8 million in the US this weekend.

Still, the results for Paramount Pictures' third "Paranormal" made for the first truly stellar box-office weekend of the fall, which has been characterized by middling performances from high-profile releases. Even past weekend winners such as "Contagion," "Real Steel" and "The Lion King 3-D" had failed to open much beyond $30 million.

"Paranormal's" opening, on the other hand, was the highest-ever October debut, and helped power the top 12 movies to their highest total, $110.3 million, since the middle of August. Analysts had anticipated $40 million to $45 million for the third instalment in the supernatural franchise.

The numbers for the Paramount release represented a significant increase over other horror films, which have struggled of late, and demolished the opening of "Paranormal Activity 2," which drew $40.7 million in its premiere on the same weekend last year.

"Horror fans came out in very large numbers this weekend, and that's a testament to the filmmakers and the enduring power of this franchise," said Rob Moore, Paramount Pictures vice chairman, alluding to the movie directed by Henry Joost and Ariel Schulman.

While Moore declined to elaborate on future plans for the franchise, the numbers all but assured there will be a fourth "Paranormal" film, and solidified "Paranormal's" status as the Halloween heir to the "Saw" series, which reliably yielded a hit every October for the past seven years.

In keeping with the general pattern for horror pictures, "Paranormal" drew a higher proportion of women, who came out to see "Paranormal Activity 3" at a ratio of 54% to 46% compared with men. About 53% of the total audience was under age 25.

The movie grossed an additional $26 million upon its debut in international territories, which included France, Australia and Russia, Paramount said.

Still, it remains to be seen how the movie will perform in the coming weeks. While filmgoers came out in sizable numbers to see the horror prequel, they didn't necessarily like what they saw: The film notched an average grade of C+, according to market research firm CinemaScore. The first "Paranormal Activity" took in $107 million in the U.S., while the second film garnered about $85 million. (Reuters)

Salman, Katrina safe in Turkey

2011-10-24T13:05:00.000-07:00

MUMBAI: Actors Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif, who are in Turkey shooting for Kabir Khan's film 'Ek Tha Tiger', are safe.

A source close to the unit said, "They are shooting in Istanbul which is far away from Van, which has been hit by a massive earthquake."

Salman Khan, who was in India for two days to shoot for Bigg Boss, landed on the morning the quake-hit Turkey. Kabir Khan, who earlier tweeted, "Every city has its own energy and character and I love capturing that.''

Salman will be shooting in Turkey for nearly a month and then flies to Iraq to shoot for the same film. A source said,

"Some portions of the film will be shot in the northern border of Iraq and some other middle east countries.''

'Ek Tha Tiger', which will be Salman's next Eid release is a spy thriller shot in five countries. A source said, "One will get to see a different kind of action not like Bodyguard or Dabanng. It is on the lines of Bourne Identity."

Aamir Khan to make TV debut with his 'most ambitious project'

2011-10-24T00:06:00.000-07:00

Aamir Khan is preparing to make his TV debut in what he has described as his "most ambitious project" yet.

The show will bring the real-life stories of people across India to the small screen, and will be broadcast in eight different languages.

"This show is my most ambitious project," Khan told NDTV. "This began as a dream some three-four years ago. Uday [Shankar, CEO of Star India] coaxed me with the idea that I should think of dominating television now. That is how the spark ignited. After that meeting I actually started thinking about it passionately.

"I have been offered game shows before, but I didn't find them very exciting... Not that they were not good but personally doing the same thing every day didn't excite me much. So that is how I started to think and brainstorm for an innovative concept.

"Moreover, I have realised in all these years that TV is a very strong and powerful medium and I should make use of this platform to reach [a] larger audience."

Shankar said: "It's a pan-India show. The show has been woven around Aamir, it is his vision. He did not want language to act as a barrier, he said 'I want all your regional channels for this show'."