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Nepali Review

Starring: Bharath, Meera Jasmine, Prem

Direction: VZ Durai

Music: Srikanth Deva

Production: Rama Saravanan
‘Nepali, the name itself suggests that something different is on offer. But everything that is different need not always be interesting. In a way, Nepali has nothing new in terms of its basic plot. It’s the same boy meets girl, love at first sight, marriage, tragedy and revenge plot, but the script takes a slightly offbeat route.
Nepali is the story of a young man, Bharath, who does odd jobs in many places during the day but assumes a dangerously sadistic persona at times. It is as if he knows things that few others know, doing things for reasons that only he knows. His hands hold steady as he sends people to their death, often in the most grueling ways. The law is behind him. But one thing puzzles us: why is he dressed in such a peculiar manner- those pointed brows and small eyes. Is he from Nepal?

Nepali is also the story of another young man, played by Bharath again, who has to face bitter experiences that change him forever. To start with, Bharath is shown as a software engineer, young and happy and in love with a girl in Ooty, Meera Jasmine. Facing opposition from her family, the lovers have no option but to elope and marry. It is a happy and contented life in a world of their own –and it couldn’t get better. But the evil shadow of a police officer who has developed a desire for Meera Jasmine lurks over them. Desire becomes obsession and tragedy follows close behind.


Nepali tells the story of one other young man- Bharath again! who ends up in jail for a crime that he could not avoid committing. In jail he meets a man who holds many secrets that could knock down many big names in the city. In the dark shadows of the gallows, the secrets change hands while no one notices. The hunted man with secrets does not survive but leaves his unfinished tasks in the hands of the young man he met.

This is basically what Nepali is all about. You might be a bit confused, and that’s exactly how the script is - confusing. You might also think that there are many layers to the story but it is actually a simple linear story that has been convoluted back and forth to produce a movie that falls just short of being interesting. The film is set in three time periods and the script moves back and forth between then and now. This kind of narration can be interesting, but the talented director, V.Z. Dhorai (remember the excellent Mugavari?), somehow misfires. This see-sawing narrative movement only makes the movie lose momentum far too many times, always moving in fits and starts, never settling into a steady pace.

Cameron Diaz W Magazine May 2008 Cover photo

Kamal’s current getup, a trailer of his next?

Dasavatharam the magnum opus of Kamal in ten different get ups directed by K S Ravikumar would be ready for release soon. Kamal’s fans are eagerly awaiting the release of this film and its audio release is slated to be held soon with the luminaries like Jackie Chan and Amitabh Bachchan in the invitees list. Meanwhile the ever professional Kamal has already started work on his next project Marmayogi. Industry sources divulge that the story of Marmayogi has been recorded in his laptop and from time to time, the veteran actor is making some kind of changes and bringing the same to a shape. There are also talks going on in the industry that Kamal’s recent bearded appearance is also an indicator of his role in the film. Marmayogi which is said to be a period film set in 7th century will be costlier than Dasavatharam and Walt Disney and Bharath Bala are touted to be the producers of the same.

Kamal identified me"

Anjaathe, the recent hit of director Mysskin brought out many talents to the fore. Prasanna proved himself as a capable villain and heaps of plaudits have been showered upon Ajmal Ameer who had donned the role of Kripakaran in the film. His character which was a mix of good and bad was much talked about. This reel life actor is a doctor in real life who hails from Cochin. He has acted as hero in a Malayalam film titled Pranaya Kalam which was a damp squib at the box office but for a song which was a chartbuster and was a ticket to a call from director Mysskin's office for Kripa's role in Anjaathe.

Ajmal is an ardent fan of Kamal Hassan and like any other Kamal fan, has grown up seeing and relishing his movies. Recently at the protest fast which was held in Chennai regarding the Hogenakkal issue, Ajmal was almost catapulted to stratosphere in ecstasy when Kamal recognized him and appreciated his work in Anjaathe. The young actor is yet to come out of his bliss.

Kamal in Mani Ratnam’s next!

We had to wait nearly 20 years after Nayagan to see this day. The duo that created one of the 100 all time greatest movies in the history of cinema is back together and there can be no bigger or better reason for celebration. Yes, Kamal and Mani Ratnam will work together in 2008, the only regret being that it will be a short association, a cameo. But never mind, at least we get that after all these years.

Mani will soon start work on his next movie, Hindi again, with Abhishek and Aishwarya. It will be an urbane love story showing the problems that newly married coupes face, Alai Paayuthey-like, but yet different. Music, no doubt will be courtesy Rahman and so we have another chartbuster in early 2009 for sure. But the biggest news now is that of Kamal’s entry into the project.

In Guru, Mani gave Madhavan a cracker of a role. In this move he was actually planning on giving Vikram the chance of essaying an arresting cameo, as we had reported some time back. But, on second thoughts, the role seemed to suit his old friend, ally and genius, Kamal. So, Mani Ratnam asks Kamal the question, explains the role, which Kamal simply loves and there we have it: the best combination in Indian cinema. The role, as we said, will be short and sweet, but just the fact that Mani called on Kamal to do it suggests that the role will be something very special, something ‘Kamal-worthy’. The wait has ended, or in another sense- just begun. We can’t wait for it to release.

One other thing: we had told you earlier today that Kamal was sporting a beard as part of his Marmayogi look. Maybe that’s not correct, maybe it is for the Mani movie! Perhaps for both. Let’s just wait and watch.

Oh! No… Not Vijay… says Dhanush

Dhanush was recently interviewed by a popular Tamil weekly in which the actor answered many questions candidly. Some of the questions were like: Would you act as a villain in a Rajinikanth film? Which of the three actresses do you like the most – Trisha, Asin or Nayanthara? Though Dhanush did not expect the question – Would you dance with Ilaya Thalapathy Vijay for a song… his apprehension was evident when he replied that he would prefer to appear in guest role rather than dance with Vijay as the latter has mastered the art so well and it would be impossible to match his performance.

Robot - The meaningless rumors!

We had reported that Sujatha’s unfortunate demise would be a stumbling block for Robot while praying that the prediction should fail. But how can the loss of a great writer such as Sujatha not affect a creative team, it has, and as a result Robot will be delayed. Bad news, but that is the truth. Though we don’t now the full details of the reschedule in the making of Robot it is confirmed that the movie won’t go on floors by April-May, the start will be postponed at least until May. This is due to the script and dialogue works that have to be completed in the void created by Sujatha’s absence. It might be fair enough to estimate that the movie will not take off until after June.

While this might not look to be of great significance given that Rajini has made himself available without any other commitments after Kuselan, the real problem is going to b with the dates of Aishwarya Rai. She is currently at the peak of her powers with offers flooding her and it is pretty well known that she has granted her dates to Mani Ratnam’s next project which will have Abhishek with her once again after Guru. This film will mark the return of Mani Ratnam to the small, charming romance. Aishwarya has reportedly given dates up until June for the proposed shoots of Robot and plans to join the sets of Mani’s film immediately after that. Now, this delay will throw all her plans into turmoil. Though Mani might understand the situation that Robot is in, and being a close friend of Rajini might try to work out some kind of arrangement, that might not be of great help because even Abhishek is in no position to make any adjustments. He is currently in the US shooting for Karan Johar’s production Dostana. Also, his movies such as Drona and Dilli 6 are in various stages of production.

So, the casting and planning of Robot is in a spot now. Various suggestions and ideas are doing the rounds that include shooting all of Rajini’s solo portions and fights first and scheduling Aishwarya’s shoots for later. But only Shankar, the one man who knows fully the requirements of Robot can take a decision on this. Meanwhile, there have been some meaningless rumors that have started floating around saying that Aishwarya Rai has opted out of Robot. Now, this is blasphemous, at least at this stage. Aishwarya’s casting was a carefully made decision after much thought from both sides and a mere two month delay will not undo that. If Aishwarya has opted out of any movie, it is Pan Nalin’s Buddha, where she was cast as Yashodhara.

With the current troubles Robot needs all the support that it can get, being Tamil cinema’s biggest dream yet. We have to be patient because the movie is a coming together of all that is big and mighty in Indian cinema- Superstar, Shankar, Eros, Ayngaran and Aishwarya-such combinations are not very easy to handle. Let’s hope everything is sorted out and Robot gets a free run until completion - even if it means a couple of months or even more of a delay. Good things never happen in a hurry.

16 hoardings and 2000 posters

Vallamai Thaaraayo directed by debutant Madhumitha who had apprenticed with Gautham Menon is complete and ready for release. This film has Parthiban and Chaaya Singh in the lead roles. Recently the audio release function of the film was held at Chennai and hero Parthiban was conspicuous by his absence. It was said that he was out of station.However he has something totally different to say to this. According to the actor, he was not happy with the treatment that was meted out to him and as he had given his commitment, he continued to act in the film and was honoring his commitment. Parthiban was also much cut up with his name not being found in the audio release invitation.

When director Madhumitha was contacted by Behindwoods, she had this to say, "Parthiban sir has been involved in this film right from the initial stage to the final stage. We have definitely not neglected him or ignored him. There are around 16 hoardings and 2000 posters in the city for Vallamai Thaaraayo and he figures in all of them". For a poser on the invitation, she said that it did not have anybody's names leave alone Parthiban's

Ajith and Nayanthara under surveillance

Aegan, the current project of Ajithkumar being directed by dance master Raju Sundaram is getting canned at a steady pace. After completing shooting at overseas locations, the unit is currently stationed at Vizag and is quickly wrapping up the schedule there. Director has chosen Vizag so as to avoid the crowd that generally throngs around the lead stars here. However he has been proved wrong and the shooting spot at Vizag is being continuously visited by fans of both Ajith and Nayanthara who are very popular.

Fans are very eager to take pictures with their favorite stars and talk to them and spend time with them. As a result shooting gets interrupted. Having found it an uphill task to protect the lead stars from the fans, director has opted for a private security that will be in charge of the star’s protection and ensure that the shooting proceeds smoothly.

‘24 drinks to say-I LOVE YOU’

U,Me Aur Hum

‘25 years ago, it took me 24 drinks to say ‘I love you’. 25 years ago, I stole into your cabin and read your diary. 25 years ago I took lessons to dance with you. I lied and did a lot of things that I never would to win your heart. Then I confessed. You got angry and left.’-This is the preview to U, Me aur Hum

Subtle strains of a soothingly

romantic love story, U Me aur Hum, this Friday in theaters. Ajay Devgan’s directorial debut and Kajol coming back to the big screen after two years, this time with the love of her life. Previews suggest that the movie is full of love, romance and all that can make the heart sing along. The music sounds good, especially the ‘Jee Le’ number with the Spanish touch and ‘U, Me aur hum’ song in Shreya Ghoshal’s honey sweet voice. If you are not yet convinced then take a look at the official ‘U, Me aur Hum’official website, one of the best in recent times.

Krazzy 4

Four crazy dudes, one angry, one obsessed, another’s got multiple personality disorder and one is frightened to his bones of everything- the Krazzy 4.

Now, when these 4 are let loose in the city all hell can break out into the peaceful life of a metropolis. The irresistible comic actors, Arshad Warsi, Rajpal Yadav and Suresh Menon work in tandem and behind them is their doctor, Juhi Chawla. Comedy to bring down the roof. Music is not worth much of a mention. There has been enough of controversy with the High Court ruling that the music has been lifted off a Sony Erricson ringtone, ordering compensation to be paid and lots of psychiatrists protesting the way in which mentally challenged patients have been pictured. And, interestingly, they’ve done all this without watching the movie!

Kahaani Gudiya Ki

Comments reserved till after release!

Music This Week

Bhoothnath

The only music release of the week. Came with high expectations and fell flat on its nose. Big B as a ghost befriending a young boy. Fodder enough for a few fun numbers but all that comes to naught as only ‘Mere Buddy’ shows signs of lingering on in the mind.

From Last Week
Three low profile releases

1. Shaurya
Took off slow but grew with word of mouth and did well in multiplexes. Safe in the profit zone. Another good one for Rahul Bose and Kay Kay Menon.


2. Khuda Kay Liye
Good word of mouth but sunk by lack of publicity.

3. Brahm
Average content, nil publicity-close to a washout. Needed more backing.

NEXT CHANGE:
‘Hope and a little bit of sugar’-no kidding, that is the name of the movie.
News Link

Not just Surya and Dhanush, says Tamanna

Though she marked her entry to the Tamil film industry with Kedi, Tamanna shot to fame with Kalloori, which provided her with the biggest break. The movie also gave her great scope for acting, which she had wisely utilized to the maximum. She is also considered as a director’s heroine, as many feel that she listens attentively to what her director has to say and grasps the nuances of acting.With her career graph moving up high, there were reports that she prefers to act only with well-established heroes like Surya and Dhanush. When Tamanna was questioned about this, she diplomatically replied that before rising to the present position she was a starlet herself. She also made it very clear that the story tops her priority list and everything else comes a distant second.

After Happy days was a hit, she disclosed that she has many offers lined-up in Telugu Desam. The actress, to prove the point that she is here to stay for a long time to come, added that she is learning both the languages – Tamil and Telugu.

Britney makes breakthrough

Ever since her separation from her second husband Kevin Federline, Britney Spears has been going through rough times. She seems to have been fighting with her own public image, damaging it time and again with her rather outrageous behaviour.

She was in an out of rehab owing to her alcoholic problems, and has even gone in for psychiatric evaluation following some inexplicable outbursts. Losing custody over her kids to Kevin only escalated her instability. Her comeback stage performance at the MTV Awards was a disaster and every other public appearance since has been blown out of proportion. Now however, after years of snubbing the media and being snubbed in return, at last the there is something good to write about the star.

Britney’s recent appearance on the TV show ‘How I Met your Mother’, which at first was criticized, turned out to be the best thing she’s done in ages! While shooting for the show, Britney said that she was having a blast and when the show was aired, the TV station had a blast! TRPs for the show increased manifold as viewership increased by over 3 million people! And now they want to have her on one more show as well, but she has to be available, of course!

It’s like her song goes, whether she’s neck-deep in scandal or washed spotlessly clean, somebody always wants a piece of her!

Madonna to adopt Indian kid

It’s taken six months to get Malawian officials to let Madonna mother a Malawian child, and one would think she would be over with her adopting dreams. But no!

Madonna, in spite of Guy Richie’s difference of opinion, wanted to adopt an African child. However, the adoption procedures were a total putoff and so the pop legend decided to let go of the aspiration for the time being. The couple were busy working their way through Malawian law and have at last been declared okay to adopt a Malwaian kid who will now move in with them into their London home. But instead of sitting back and enjoying being with her newly-adopted son, is now considering her next adoption. This time Madonna has decided it will be a child from India!

Guy Richie, however, is not too inclined towards the idea, but Madonna always has her way. The couple and their kids were recently in India and she was very much taken in with the country, its people and their culture. And has hence set her mind on giving an underprivileged Indian tot a life.

Superstar's super daughters!

Though their father is reigning in the Tamil film industry both the daughters chose to take a different path, well not too far away for the film field.

Soundarya Rajinikanth, the second daughter is as busy as a bee with her Ocher Studios and the filming of the 3D movie 'Sultan-The Warrior'.

And now Aishwarya Dhanush, the first daughter of Rajinikanth and wife of actor Dhanush has divulged her interest in directing films.

As the next step to attain her mission, reports indicate that Aishwarya has joined as the assistant director to Selvaraghavan in his film 'Ayirathil Oruvan'. This flick features Karthik of 'Paruthi Veeran' fame in the lead role.

Now again Selvaraghavan is the brother of Aishwarya's hubby, Dhanush. Aishwarya had joined as Selva's assistant recently, to be exact from the second schedule of 'Ayirathil Oruvan'.

It was actress Sonia Agarwal and wife of Selvaraghavan who was the assistant director for this film.

Shriya's slap

On the day of Ugadi Shriya slapped a fan.

Shriya visited the Tirupathi temple at 2.30 in the morning to worship the deity on the Telugu New Year Day. The local M.L.A. had made all the arrangements. That dutiful M.L.A. had also arranged for the lone security.

After the worship she left the premises at 4 in the morning. A fan that was fascinated by her divine look followed her very closely. It is said that he tried to shake hands with Shriya.

As if stung, Shriya pulled back her hand.Not discouraged by this, the fan tried to touch her thigh and a thunderous slap hit his cheek. It is just that Shriya slapped him.

What a way for Shriya to start the New Year with action!

Aamir leads, many blog along

When some men take the lead others follow. Only a few men can make people follow without persuasion and Aamir Khan seems to be one of them. Following a good example is not a bad thing, the only condition being that the pioneer must not be replicated. Every inspiration must have its own identity, only time will tell whether everyone has managed a distinct identity. We are talking about the new craze that Aamir seems to have sparked off in Bollywood. No, it is not the shaving of the head or refusing awards, it is as simple as blogging. Well, blogging was a simple thing just a few a months back but after Aamir’s personal blog became very popular with his fans many film personalities have discovered that it is indeed a great way to keep in touch with fans, get constructive feedback and realize certain ground realities without having to go into a crowd and running the risk of being mobbed, as Shriya might know.

So, as an offshoot of Aamir Khan’s blog we now have three other personalities who have launched their own. Amrita Rao, then item girl Koena Mitra and the latest addition - ace director Kunal Kohli. Now, each of them claims to be different. And they are different. Kunal Kohli has said that he will not use his blog to promote his films, only to receive feedback from the audience first hand. Amrita Rao’s is more of a full-fledged site with filmographies, biographies etc, while Koena Mitra’s blog is a lot more personal. It seems like a means to counter the umpteen number of stories that keep circulating about her in the media, all thanks to her item girl image.

Aamir lead and 3 followed. Any other takers?

Rajini’s statement and the aftermath

Looks like superstar Rajinikanth’s opinion about the Hogenakkal water issue has stirred more than a hornet. While Karnataka fumed over his statement that bashed the miscreants who disrupted peace in the lives of poor Tamils who made Bangalore their abode and asked for an unconditional apology, the superstar reiterated his opinion and further declared that he did not hurt the sentiments of people in Karnataka.

Rajini also snubbed reports that claimed to ban his movies in Karnataka until he offered an unconditional apology. The extremist factions in Karnataka have refused to accept Rajini’s statement and are stubborn for an unconditional apology warning to refuse his entry into the state.

Following this, Rajini fans have staged a protest in Coimbatore and distributed posters that contained slogans supporting the superstar. The demonstration also witnessed announcements being made by the fans on widespread protests if organizations in Karnataka did not drop charges against Rajini.

First Tamil movie in iPod

That Vallamai Thaaraayo, starring Parthiban and Chaya Singh, is going to be different is evident right away. Directed by a woman – Madhumitha – a filmmaker of short film from the U.S., the film affirms that there is life after divorce for a woman. Its audio release held last evening at the Rani Seethai hall had the grandeur and excitement of a wedding. For onlookers outside and those inside, the hall was decorated tastefully. Skipping conventional ways of releasing an audio (with a CD or a cardboard cutout of a CD) the people behind Vallamai Thaaraayo released it with an iPod. The team members received the first copy. And instead of merely screening the songs, they had playbacks singers (Anuradha Sriram, Baradwaj) and dancers actually sing and dance the tracks live on stage. Legendary singer P.B. Srinivas released the iPod-CD combo. Bharadwaj is the music composer.

Vallamai Thaaraayo is produced by the director’s parents, Nalini Sunderaman and SriSakthi Sunderaman, and they intended the function to also be a time of honoring seasoned artists such as MN Rajam, A.L. Ragahavan, Veneeradai Nirmala, Manjula and Vijaykumar, Ravichandran, Srkanth, Sankar Ganesh, Sathya Priya and Veeraswamy – all of whom came up on stage and received mementos. Also starring in the film are Anandraj, Kuyili, Devi Priya and Karna, all of whom were present.

Director Madumitha said Vallamai Thorai is “a sensitive portrait of a woman, her feelings and her desires. It explores my convictions that life does not need to be accepted as it is.” Like the movie, the songs have a very different feel to them.

Director Ameer Supports

Dhanush emerging director?

Directors are becoming actors and vice versa. The latest name to be added to this actor-turning-director list will be that of Dhanush, the son-in-law of superstar Rajinikanth.

The young actor revealed about his passion for direction in a recent interview to a local newspaper. Dhanush has been shooting for his film 'Padikadhavan' at Guindy, Chennai. Dhanush revealed his desire to the news man and even told him that he is even ready with the script.

On query as to whether he will begin to direct immediately, the actor revealed that he has plans to start directing a film next year. Dhanush will be a director for this film and also hopes to direct a hero. But if the hero is not able to do justice to the role than he might himself have to don the role of the protagonist he described.

When asked if his passion for direction was a new-found interest, the actor revealed that he had been doing his home work for the past four to five years.

Dhanush sure seems to be a man with a mission. Here is wishing him the very best for his directorial venture.

Swarnamalya in trouble

It has become a habit with Swarnamalya to get into trouble one a year.

First her name was mentioned in the issue of Kanchi monks. Then every other month ghosts were coming out with Swarnamalya in scandalous video, her intimate photographs and so on. But they were all total lies.

She kept away from controversies and concentrated on her dancing. There is a danger for that too.A photograph of Swarnamalya kissing a young person is going around in the Internet and she is a divorcee. It is said that that young person is a married man with children.All are coming together to talk about this unwanted relationship.

A big lineup leading to Robot

EROS INTERNATIONAL ANNOUNCES THE LARGEST LINE-UP OF FILMS FOR AN INDIAN MEDIA & ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY EVER

Studio set to dominate market with over 35 releases this year
Mumbai / London / New York / Los Angeles: 7th April, 2008: Eros International, the leading company in the Indian media and entertainment sector announces an unprecedented line-up of films for 2008 by an Indian studio. Following a highly successful 2007 with some of the biggest blockbusters including Namastey London, Partner, Heyy Babyy and Om Shanti Om, Eros has further raised the stakes by releasing an unrivaled line-up of more than 35 releases this year including many groundbreaking Tamil films.

In the regional cinema space, leading integrated Tamil media & entertainment company Ayngaran International, an Eros International company, has at least 15 films lined up for release this year. Films by directors like Prabhu Deva, Raju Sundaram, Jhananthan, Vishnu Vardhan, Selva Raghavan and other leading filmmakers will be part of the Eros-Ayngaran bouquet.

Robot would be Eros International-Ayngaran’s mega project in Kollywood which involves the crème-la-de-crème of the Indian film industry viz. Super Star Rajnikanth, former Miss World Aishwarya Rai, renowned director Shankar and Mozart of Madras A R Rahman. This combination has raised the expectations not only in the national arena but also in the international horizon

In addition to Robot the Eros International-Ayngaran slate includes Aegan by Raju Sundaram starring south superstars Ajith and Nayanthara, a yet untitled project by dancing legend Prabhu Deva in the director’s chair with Vijay and Nayantara in the leads, Peraanmai by Jhananathan having Jeyam Ravi as the lead star, Sarvam by Vishnu Vardhan and Arya along with Trisha in the lead roles, two untitled projects by Selva Raghavan and a host of other films.
The international line-up of Tamil films include Kuruvi by Dharani starring Vijay and Trisha, Jeeva and Aneez’ Dhaam Dhoom with Jeyam Ravi and Kangana Ranaut in the lead, Varanam Ayiram by Gautam Menon and starring Surya with Sameera, Kanthaswamy with Vikram and Shriya, the Surya and Tamanna starrer Ayan and more.

With this unprecedented line-up, Eros International will again raise and set the bar for the Indian Media and Entertainment industry this year.

TAMIL TITLES
FILM TITLE PRODUCER DIRECTOR CAST
Aegan Ayngaran Raju Sundaram Ajith, Nayanthara
Yet to be titled Ayngaran Prabhu Deva Vijay, Nayanthara
Peraanmai Ayngaran Jananathan Jeyam Ravi
Sarvam Ayngaran Vishnuvardhan Arya, Trisha
Yet to be titled Ayngaran Selvaraghavan Dhanush
Yet to be titled Pokkiri Ramesh Selvaraghavan Not fixed
Angadi Theru Ayngaran Vasantha Balan Mohan, Anjali
Muniyaandi Thiru Pictures Thirumurugan Bharath
Sevvel Chinna Creations Hari Bharath
Durai Rajalakshmi Films A.Venkatesh Arjun, Padmapriya
Yet to be titled Kavithalaya TBC Jeeva
Yet to be titled Kavithalaya TBC Arjun
TAMIL SLATE
INTERNATIONAL RIGHTS

FILM TITLE DIRECTOR CAST
Kuruvi Dharani Vijay, Trisha
Dhaam Dhoom Jeeva & Aneez Jeyam Ravi, Kangana Ranaut
Vaaranam Aayiram Gautham Menon Surya, Sameera
Kanthaswamy Susi Ganesan Vikram, Shriya
Ayan K.V Anand Surya, Tamanna
Arai En 305il Kadavul Simbudevan Prakashraj, Santhanam

The award goes to Mohanlal and Meera Jasmine

The Kerala Government’s 38th Annual Film Awards was announced yesterday (April 8, 2008). The best actor and actress awards were bagged by Mohanlal and Meera Jasmine for the films Paradesi and Ore Kadal respectively.

Director Sasi won the best director award for the film Adayalangal, which was also adjudged the best film of the year. The best playback singer’s award for the male and female section went to Vijay Jesudas and Shwetha, respectively. Murali and Lakshmi Gopalswamy were declared the best character artistes in the male and female category.

Katha Parayumbol was voted as the best film by the fans. Incidentally, this film is being remade in Tamil, as Kuselan, with Rajinikanth playing the lead role.

This film has nothing that you expect!

Director Jananathan of the Iyarkai and E fame is currently directing a film – Peraanmai – that features five heroines. If you think with five heroines and all new faces, it would be nothing short of a glamorous riot; then you are absolutely wrong. According to the director, there are no separate songs for each of the heroine as most of the multi-heroine subject generally have, which itself makes it a unique film.

Interestingly, Jananathan has accommodated all the five heroines in the same house and is having them trained in martial arts, swimming, rifle shooting etc. “While many consider it essential to learn dancing to enter the film industry, it is not necessary for my film,” said the director. As it is an out-and-out action flick, the heroines are trained to suit their roles to perfection. Well, it needs to be seen what it is all about.

Vijay’s back to back episode to begin

Kuruvi, the project that Ilaya Thalapathy is involved currently is getting ready for release on the 9th of May. This project of the actor in association with director Dharani and Trisha has evinced interest among his fans. It has been reported that there will be no special function to release the audio and arrangements have been made to ensure availability of audio in stores directly. Meanwhile, his next project with Prabhu Deva and Nayanthara is slated to commence on May 9th on the same day as that of Kuruvi’s release. This is certainly interesting fact to rejoice for all his fans.

Danush's mega comedy alliance

Dhanush’s Padikadhavan ran into rough weather when FEFSI issued a ban against the actor in a case of complaint received from Gemini Labs that he did not honor his commitment towards them. Now this issue has been solved amicably between the concerned parties much to the relief of everyone involved. As per this, Dhanush, after completing the first schedule of Padikadhavan, will be working for a project with Gemini Labs and then onwards has agreed to work simultaneously in both the projects. Now that the problem is put to rest, Padikadhavan’s shooting has resumed.

Danush's films have always been rich in comedy. What Padikkathanvan offers is Danush plus Vadivelu – a potent combination that hasn't been explored so far. Joining Vadivelu are a team of comedians such as Mayilsamy, and Ganesh. The film's director, Suraj, is known for bringing out the best in Vadivelu. What was special about Thalainagaram and Marudhamalai was Vadivelu's antics. In Padikathanvan, Vadivuelu is called Alert Arumugam.

Director Suraj says both the title for the movie and the story is something he came up with, and Danush gladly accepted both. A. Venkatesh will wield the camera, while Mani Sharma will compose music.

S J Suryah’s sacrifice

Newtonin Moonram Vidhi is the title of S.J. Suryah’s next film. As like the unusual title, the film’s storyline will also be different, says the director-turned-actor. Though avenging a murder forms the crux of the story, he claims that the method employed will be very different and interesting.Speaking about his future plans, Suryah made it quite clear that he has no intentions to tie the nuptial knot now, as it would hamper his growth in the film industry. He reiterated his stand by stating that he still has miles to go before achieving something worthwhile in the industry. That’s a true sacrifice indeed!

Priyamani’s desire…

Priyamani is riding high with projects from big banners lined up for her. Presently, she has bagged the lead role in the film that is to be produced by Gemini Film Circuit. This is a remake of the hit Malayalam film – Classmate. According the actress, who would be sharing the screen space with Prithiviraj, the audience would see a different Priyamani –neither resembling Paruthiveeran Muthazhagi nor Thotta Priyamani. The film’s shooting is scheduled to commence from June onwards.

Another project that has her busy is Hare Ram – a Telugu film, where she dons a comedy character. She is so smitten by her role in this film that she has expressed her desire to star in such a character in at least one Tamil film some time soon.

Sarath supports Rajinikanth

Superstar Rajinikanth came under a lot of flak from Kannadigas for supporting the Tamil film fraternity. The people of Karnataka have threatened to boycott his films. Sarathkumar, talking on this issue, has expresses disappointment over this treatment meted out to one of the biggest stars of Indian Cinema.

As President of the Nadigar Sangam, he has asked all those not present at the hunger strike on April 4th to show cause for thier absence.

Trisha going strong

It seems Trisha is having a whale of time in both Tamil and Telugu filmdom. She is awaiting the release of 'Kuruvi' opposite Vijay.

Meanwhile, 'Abhiyum Nanum', directed by Radha Mohan is nearing completion. Also she is tipped to act in director Vishnuvardhan's next opposite Arya. Also she has been assigned to act in a Goutham Menon's film soon.

Buzz is that she has bagged the plum role to play Nagarjuna's heroine in Telugu film King besides a couple of big projects.

She is flying soon to New Zealand to shoot a song sequence for 'Kuruvi'.

Jalsa images

Piya in 'Ekan'

Filming for 'Ekan' is happening at a rapid pace. Raju Sundaram directed the action scenes with the bearded Ajith. But now, Ajith has removed his beard.

Director has given more importance to romantic and sentiment scenes.

Going by the story, Ajith's father has two wives. Ajith is the son of the first wife. Suhasini is the second wife whose son is Navdeep.There is a pair for Navdeep in the film. Not having found any one suitable in Tamilnadu, they have imported her from the North. Her name is Piya, a popular Mumbai model.

For the first time Piya is acting in a Tamil film.

Trisha to participate in a Film festival

Indo Cine Appreciation Foundation (ICAF) is jointly promoting a film festival with the European Union and South Indian Film Chamber of Commerce.European Union leader Anton Kokala is inaugurating the festival which starts today and continues up to 17th. Kannan, the president of Indo Cine Appreciation Foundation is presiding over the function.

Films from Europe will be screed at this 13th European Union Film Festival.

In this inauguration, Film Chamber President K.R.G., Producers' Council President Ramanarayanan, actor Trisha, Sai Mira company Executive Director P.S.Swaminathan will participate.20 films will be screed during the festival. Films from Finland, Germany Poland, Nederland Sweden and Austria are also included in it.

Robot producer dreams bigger

No entertainment company has created as wide a global platform for Indian cinema as Eros International. They operate in over 50 countries, releasing more than 35 new films globally every year in English, Hindi and Tamil. But more significantly, it has a library (which is growing rapidly by the day) of films that total
more than 1900 titles. And now Eros has just signed a 3-year content licensing deal with Aksh Optifibre Ltd (a large-scale manufacturer of cable and optical fibre) on an upfront fee plus revenue share basis. Through this agreement Eros’ Bollywood content will be distributed on A-Tel, Aksh’s IPTV platform.

This will be a video on demand service, allowing A-Tel subscribers access to Bollywood movies in the comfort of their homes. In addition to movies, they will air music videos, new film promos, celebrity interviews, and award nights. “The collaboration with Eros International, said A-Tel’s MD, Dr. Choudhari, “is to provide world class entertainment to our A-Tel subscribers."

In turn, Ms. Jyoti Deshpande, Commercial director of Eros International, spoke of the agreement, saying, "Eros is a leading pioneer in new media initiatives within the Indian Entertainment sector and is pleased to be providing Aksh with a movie service for their IPTV platform, leveraging our blockbuster film content."

Action against Shankar, Manirathnam, A.R.Rahman & others?

The hunger strike called by the Film Producers’ Council to protest against Karnataka’s stance in the Hokkenakal project was a massive success. Many top film artistes, producers, technicians, TV artistes and directors participated in the daylong strike to show their solidarity in the issue. However, some notable personalities were conspicuous with their absence. Among them were Shankar, Manirathnam, Thangar Bachan, Illayaraja, A.R. Rahman, Karthik, Napoleon, Asin, Revathi, Suhasini etc. According to our sources, most of them are sending in their apologies and reasons for their absence to pacify the respective affiliations they are associated with. With the hunger strike turning out to be a great success, it looks like there might not be any strong action against them if they provide a valid reason.

Surya replaces Vishal

It was reported earlier that Vishal had bagged the superhero role for Mysskin’s next venture and Vikram Krishna would produce the same. With the actor pulling out suddenly, uncertainty looms large as to who would be the superhero. The latest buzz, however, is that Surya has been offered the role and Radaan and Sun TV together intends to produce the venture. However, we will get a clear picture of this project only when director Mysskin comes out with a clear-cut statement. Meanwhile, the director’s full concentration seems to be focused towards his forthcoming venture Nandalala.

Hunger Strike

Rajini says Kannadas also watch his films

The hue and cry over some remarks made by Rajinikanth reached its pinnacle with some Kannada outfits torching the star’s effigy. It has also been declared that his films would be banned from the state until he renders an unconditional apology. Reacting to these sentiments, the actor said that not only Tamilians but Kannadigas also see and enjoy his films. The superstar also came up with a counter clarifying the statement he made in the strike. According to the actor, his statement that those instigating violence should be beaten has been misconstrued as all Kannadigas should be beaten. Condemning it strongly, he said that some sections of the society are falsely spreading such statements.

The speech made by him is being represented out of context in order to instigate violence, he felt. He also challenged that if people like Parvathamma Raj Kumar, Girish Karnad, Ambarish, Vishnu Vardhan and Aswath feel that what he has spoken has hurt the sentiments of Kannadigas then he is ready to render an unconditional apology.

Linguistic chauvenist!

'Sathyaraj's speech during the event of hogenakkal fast is intolerable. Speaking in Thalaivar's word Sathyaraj the so called puratchi tamizhan is an example (of how a person should not live!) for us. How jealous, crooked and greedy he is! God are you still there or not!

Sathyaraj cannot call himself a human any more. If he calls himself a "tamilian" henceforth then its a shame for all cultured tamilians.

He not only criticized Rajini but also yelled at the tamilians describing them as "Maram etc., (also 'Maram'-dead body)". Since Sathyaraj is a tamilian (MGR and him are malayalees aren't they) can he say anything!

By his speech he also has created a fear in the minds of all communities. If tamilians alone can come up in tamilnadu and if they alone can live in the state then sure the tamilians from all other states and countries will be kicked out as the same rule will apply to everyone.

In India everyone can go anywhere and work anywhere. We all have the freedom to speak, learn and earn anywhere. Who the hell is he to say like this. Is he the godfather of tamilnadu?

I would like to request all the people belonging to different communities (Hindi, telugu, Malayalam etc.,) to be united in this time of crisis. Or else you will be a prey of guys like Sathyaraj (Linguistic chauvenist) who dislikes other community groups progressing in their state.

There are some politicians who are resisting such a speech (i know they would have loved his criticism on rajini. But do they also agree that they are 'Marams'. I hope guys like Sathyaraj should be nipped in the budding stage itself at any cost). He also said, 'he would die rather then uttering Rajini's name'. Will anyone care if he dies?

Vairamuthu in his speech said that Sathyaraj is another 'Periyaar'. Is Periyaar a fellow who is that cheap! Who knows may be he is right. Atleast now God gave an opportunity for our Thailavar to understand whom his real friends are.

Innocence is also a crime. Our Thalaivar is so innocent as he was easily caught into the trap as a result of this event. I hope atleast now he realises the truth and will act accordingly. As a result of his speech he now has his own state (Karnataka) against him. This is what everyone (whole tamil film industry and politicians) were waiting for. They want to destroy our Thalaivar's image by all means. But this is only temporary.

Superstar denies insulting Kannadigas

Bangalore: Under fire from pro-Kannada outfits and political party leaders for his reported remarks about the protests in Karnataka against the Hogenakkal water project, actor Rajnikant on Sunday rejected the allegation that he insulted Kannadigas.

“It is a malicious propaganda unleashed against me by some people. I am not an unwise person to pass remarks that offend the sentiments of the people of Karnataka,” he said in a recorded statement released to some regional television channels here.

He clarified that during the fast by members of the Tamil film industry in Chennai on Friday, he only decried those who were creating trouble, asking that such people be “kicked.” He was not referring to all.

Upset by the storm of criticism his remarks evoked in Karnataka, including a demand for his apology and threats to block screening of his films, the actor said: “Do these people who are demanding my apology represent 5.5 crore Kannadigas?

“I haven’t done any wrong. But I am not averse to tendering an apology if I had committed any wrong,” he said. “If stalwarts like Parvathamma Rajkumar, Vishnuvardhan, Girish Karnad demand my apology, I will certainly tender

80 scenes, 70 locations, 5 heroines, one love

Director Jagannath, director of Raman Thediya Seethai, disclosed that it was not so difficult to direct five heroines at a time. Speaking about his project RTS, he said that Kajala, Navya Nair, Vimala Raman, Ramya Nambisan and Karthika were all very cooperative. Though the theme is about searching a bride, the entire movie does not revolve around that. The story also has three love stories weaved into it. RTS comprises only about 80 scenes and it was shot in 70 locations in Chennai, Nagercoil and Pondicherry. With just two songs remaining to be shot, the film is expected to hit the theatres during the second week of June.

Trisha foundation

One of the top actresses in the Tamil film industry, Trisha stakes claim to the first woman’s fan club. And her birthday saw her launch the Trisha Foundation, which also has a connection to her fan club.

“It’s a foundation started by my fan club head Jassi. We just do different things like helping out children and starting new projects like where you have more people coming in to help us. Everything is taken care of by them and I just help them whenever I’m in town and I guess if I probably tell someone, they’ll listen to me and come forward, that’s what we want,” Trisha said.

More details about Trisha foundation can be found at http://www.trishafoundation.org. The website has quite good details about the service that they provide and the gallery of Trisha in her foundation service.

The contact address of Trisha Krishnan foundation is :
No:20 Flowers Street, Detective Complex,
Near Saidapet Police Station,
Chennai.
Tamilnadu.
Mobile : + 0 94440 16106, 99400 16808.
E-Mail : contact@trishafoundation.org
Hats Off Trisha for your great services. Keep the good work.