'Dhoom machale' is for Sachin: Aamir Khan

`Dhoom machale` is for Sachin: Aamir Khan
Monday, November 11, 2013 12:58 IST
By Santa Banta News Network
Cricketer Sachin Tendular's retirement from test cricket has left Aamir Khan wanting to "celebrate his spectacular innings". The superstar has decided to dedicate the title track of his forthcoming film `Dhoom 3` to the master blaster.

"Through his entire career he has created 'Dhoom' in every step, on every pitch, in every cricketing country, in every bowler's nightmare, in our hearts, in every cricket field across the world, and in the hearts of every cricket fan across the world. So, very appropriately, we humbly dedicate our song 'Dhoom machale' to the genius," Aamir said in a statement Saturday.

Tendulkar is scheduled to play his 200th Test match against the West Indies in his hometown Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium next week (Nov 14-18), drawing curtains on a spectacular cricket career spanning over two decades.

The song will be launched before he starts playing in Mumbai.

"Dhoom 3", produced by Aditya Chopra, will release Dec 20 and also stars Abhishek Bachchan, Uday Chopra and Katrina Kaif.

Movie Review Mickey Virus is lovable but could have been better

Movie Review: `Mickey Virus` is lovable but could have been better
Saturday, October 26, 2013 14:47 IST
By Ankur Karan Singh , Santa Banta News Network
Star Cast: Manish Paul, Elli Avram, Manish Chaudhary, Varun Bandola, Puja Gupta, Vikesh Kumar, Nitesh Pandey

Director: Saurabh Varma

Rating: ***

Well finally it's once again proved that the thumb rule that, only big budget movies or the ones studded with glittering star-cast, own the potency to charm the masses, doesn't hold true any more. Featuring Manish Paul, Elle Avram, Manish Chaudhary, Varun Bandola, Nitesh Pandey et al cine saga with its roots embedded in virtual world made it's way to cineplexes. This comic techno-thriller received a bleak response at its opening and could only invite a foot-fall of approximately 4 percent due to some very obvious reasons.

Mickey Virus primarily narrates the story of a Delhi based sloppy "computer ka kidaa" Mickey (Manish Paul) who in the days hours sits in his Poppi's (mom's) grocery shop, selling those wafers and biscuits whereas at night his main job is to develop computer viruses and provide hacking solutions to those in need of them, and to perform these notorious yet non-hazardous activities he has his own band of hacker pals comprising Chutney (Puja Gupta), Pancho (Vikesh Kumar) and Floppy (Raghav Kakar). All was going fine for Mickey and his gang of pals till the time Mickey has a rendezvous ACP Siddanth (Manish Singh) and Inspector Bhalla (Vrun Badola) who in order to hunt down a gang of hackers which operates online decides to hire a street smart hacker.

Before going into the details of Mickey Virus' script it is pertinent to mention here that ever-since the release of "Vicky Donor" our Bollywooders seems to have become more courageous in trying their hands on off beat yet interesting story-lines and undoubtedly "Mickey Virus" is the one belonging to the ilk, where scriptwriter has quite praise-worthily tried to bank upon the novel story ideas pertaining to virtual world. Although Mickey Virus shares not even a single point of reference with the former but the novelty of premise, dialect and the milieu where story has its base certainly reminds you of Shoojit Sircar's masterpiece.

Anyhow getting back to the Mickey Virus, belonging to comic thriller genre primarily pertaining to the world of hackers "Mickey Virus" can safely be called an out-of-the box cine delight for the cine enthusiasts residing in this part of the world. With a sound dose of humor and thrill, "Micky Virus" is a fine blend of number of rib tickling and on-the-edge-of-the-seat moments. 

Despite being a first timer scribe Saurab Varma seemed to be well versed with the story-line and has quite confidently dealt with the entire plot of "Micky Virus". 

As we all know that till this age of Indian cinema despite many attempts seldom a full fledged cine chronicle has been developed on theme of "hacking." Although we got many opportunities to see their titbit appearances in many sci-fi sagas. But "Micky Virus" does a thorough justice to its theme and never makes you feel psychologically tired while watching it and for this all credit goes to movie's director and script writer Saurab Varma, who quite conveniently assorted mild humor along with thrill and that too without leaving much scope for practicability. As stated that first half of the movie is solely dedicated to some light moments, but on the other side of the loo-break lies a thrilling and gripping story line which keeps your attention glued to the celluloid. 

With a nicely tailored script screenplay of "Micky Virus" acts like a cherry on the cake, where first half of Micky Virus showcases Micky and his don't give it damn attitude, the second half altogether leaps into different shade i.e of thrill. Glued together both these halves make "Mickey Virus" at-least a sensible and watchable tale. 

Lingo used in the movie typically signify the Delhite dialect, which up-till an extent magnifies the appeal of the dialogues, but counting them as something thoroughly captivating will be wrong. 

In performance arena, Manish has thoroughly embraced his character and has performed his part with quite an ease. In a short yet sassy role even Elle has looked effortless and lovable, but the men who deserves the major part of "accolade cookie" are Manish Chaudhary and Varun Badola who not only perform there respective roles with thorough confidence but also keep you enthralled with their expressiveness. Nitesh Pandey along with Puja Gupta is just fine.

Music of Mickey Virus with songs like Pyaar China Ka Maal has already occupied some space in the iPad and lappi's of Youngistan. 

As far as BO potential of "Mickey Virus" is concerned then certainly it is not going to earn much at the ticket window and may end up being an average grosser. To sum up, if you can feel satiated with a mild dose of humor and thrill with its roots embedded in a novel story-line then you should get infected with Mickey Virus.

Movie Review Krrish 3 soars like a 'Diwali Rocket'

Movie Review: `Krrish 3` soars like a `Diwali Rocket`
Friday, November 01, 2013 18:05 IST
By Ankur Karan Singh, Santa Banta News Network
Cast: Hrithik Roshan, Priyanka Chopra, Vivek Oberoi, Kangana Ranaut

Director: Rakesh Roshan

Run Time : 2 Hrs 32 Mins

Rating: ***1/2

Well if we go back to identify the onset era of Sci-fi or Superhero movies in Bollywood, then fascination of B-town biggies for superhero movies dates back to sixth decade of last century, but the genre actually marked its onset in mid of 80s, when Anil Kapoor and Sridevi starrer Mr India came in to cine arena to charm the masses, post that a few more noteworthy flicks made to cine arena. And in the last almost 26 years despite a very lean number of flicks belonging to the genre of Sci-Fi or Superhero movie, the genre has taken a quantum leap.

Even if look at the "Krrish franchise" or "Brand Krrish" then probably ten years back even conceptualiser of "Brand Krrish" Rakesh Roshan wouldn't have foreseen that some day his flagship initiative "Krrish" will turn into one of the most sought after cine brands of Bollywood, but it did.

So with "Krrish 3" making its way to cineplexes all we Indian have got ample reasons to be boastful about having our most sought super hero "Krrish" in the league of Batman and Superman.

Anyhow, this larger than life dream project of Roshans, which kept masses await from almost last one and a half year finally made it to cine arena and recorded a decent foot-fall of approximately 60% at its opening. 

By now it's a known fact that Rakesh Roshan is one of the most exceptional story teller and even with "Krrish 3" he didn't forget to adhere to this trait of his. Right at the onset the premise of "Krrish 3" takes-off with a voice over where Big B narrates the past sequences and instances which subsequently lead to the emergence of current stage. And from there takes-off the premise of "Krrish 3", where Krrish aka Krishna ( Hrithik) after rescuing his father Rohit Mehra ( again played by Hrithik) returns to India. 

But now the circumstances have changed where Rohit has started working with Indian Research Institute as scientist, Krrish who is now married to Priya (Priyanka Chopra) is living a happy married life in Mumbai. 


Beyond the remotest ideas of this happily living family, is the existence of Kaal (Vivek Oberoi) the beast in the robe of human who is misusing his psychic brilliance to create a chaotic milieu in the world. And to meet his objective, Kaal, develops baneful viruses and besides that also owns a brigade of beasts which he calls "Maanvar" ( Manushya +Jaanwar) a deadly combo of human and animal traits which he creates by the DNA fusion of human and animals. 

In an effort of creating a devastation, Kaal tries to induce an epidemic in Mumbai through his virus, but his this plan gets ruined by Rohit and Krrish. And what follows next is a thrilling action packed journey in the world of Krrish. So do Krrish succeeds in demolishing Kaal and his brigade of beasts or not? to know watch Krrish. 


As stated, that Rakesh is an exceptional story teller who is not only well versed with the art of picking up the most entertaining tales, but at the same time also masters the art of narrating them in the most captivating manner and with "Krrish 3" the ace cinematographer has once again exhibited his deftness in the skill. 

Undoubtedly "Krrish 3" belong to the "Sci-fi" and "Superhero" genre of movie making, but Rakesh along with his team of writers comprising Robin Bhatt, Honey Irani, Irrfan Kamal , Akarsh Kurana and Sanjay Masoom has very well assorted the human factor in the script of the Krrish 3. 


Despite being perceived as a core Sci Fi saga story-line of "Krrish 3" exceptionally integrates the emotions, bonding, barbarity in quite a proportionate manner. And all this doesn't ends here what more embedded in the script of "Krrish 3 is a super-powerful antagonist heading a brigade of beasts and on top of it, "Krrish 3's script deserves kudos for never showcasing protagonists as something immortal or out of this world and antagonists as meager punching bag for our super hero. 

But yeah at same time keeping in view the notions of rationalists, who may discard the transformation of human into "Maanwar" or "Human Beasts" all we can say that if even cinema will start following the rational rubrics, then probably it will fail in delivering entertaining content. So kudos to entire team of writers for adroitly tailoring an entertaining script. 


As far as screenplay of Krrish is concerned then, probably nothing much needs to be said because by now Rakesh Roshan has turned into a virtuoso of Sci-fi genre. Despite Krrish 3's being a sequel of "Koi Mil Gaya", and "Krrish" it gets very clear right at the onset that Rakesh Roshan along with his screenplay-writer companion, Robin Bhatt want to establish "Krrish 3" as a standalone cine cantata. 

With first few minutes solely dedicated to the background which has its roots entrenched in the plot of "Koi Mil Gaya" and "Krrish" Rakesh tries to make audience well-aware of the the situation which has lead to current state of affair (so for all those who have not seen "Koi Mil Gaya" and "Krrish" nothing to worry about). Subsequently what follows is a smooth first half which without any hurry introduces the masses to the characters performing on the silver screen, whereas, it's the second half that holds your attention till the culmination. 


If we go by the technical aspect then with major chunk of "Krrish 3" made in VFX first half may disappoint you momentarily, where graphics appear a bit hazy and imprecise, but as soon as the second half arrives this specially induced feature along with believable action sequences strikes back with a bang. 

Coming to the music department of the movie then frankly speaking having those aural delights was no where required in "Krrish 3" but as it is a customary rule for our Bollywood Superheros to be adroit in dancing too, hence in order to meet that objective obviously we need some musical tadka also. Anyhow, with "Dil Tu Hi Bata" being the topper of the track list music of "Krrish 3" is strictly OK. 

Coming to the performances of our antagonists and protagonists, then in a dual role of Rohit and Krishna aka Krrish, Hrithik conveniently slips under the skin of his character. And in fact keeping in view those Greek god like looks and appropriate emotional expressiveness of Hrithik, it won't be wrong to say that , neither there could have been any other better choice than him nor anybody else could have succeeded in doing the justice to the the character of Krrish. 

With quite confined scope of performance Priyanka has looked lovable. After seeing him flunking in some of his recent cine stints Vivek has finally regained the momentum and up-till great extent has succeeded in doing a thorough justice to his character of, Kaal the attrocious antagonist. 

But the performer who in-spite of not being on the center stage surprises everyone by her performance is Kangana. Although in "Krrish 3" Kangs plays the character with grey shades, but even while doing that she has not only charmed the masses like anything, but at the same time has proved her acting potential too. Be it about exhibiting wickedness or showing that emotional side, Kangna has thoroughly improved herself on every front, so special bunch accolades for her. 


Well with so many brownie points in its favor, "Krrish 3" has got all the components to make it a decent BO grosser. And probably besides a good amount of entertaining quotient, it's the prevailing legacy of our Indian Superhero which may make "Krrish 3" one of the biggest BO grosser of the year. 

To sum up, with a grand entertainment quotient garnished with condiments like action, emotion romance and a unique technological perspective this Rakesh Roshan cine delight is truly a larger than life cine-experience which should not be missed. And hence keeping in view the stupendous efforts of Rakesh Roshan, Hrithik, Priyanka and Kangana, a half star extra for this somewhat first of its kind cine experience in India. Go watch it.

SRK, Salman can never be friends: Salim Khan on SRK-Salman

SRK, Salman can never be friends: Salim Khan on SRK-Salman
Friday, November 08, 2013 10:44 IST
By Santa Banta News Network
Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan are seen as rivals in Bollywood and Salman's father Salim Khan Thursday said that it's not possible for two competitors to appreciate each other's work.

Salim Khan just patched up with his writing partner Javed Akhtar to unveil the trailer of the 3D version of their 1975 cult film "Sholay". They parted ways about 32 years ago after writing together hit scripts like "Zanjeer", "Sholay", "Deewaar" and "Mr. India".

When asked would the hit pair of "Karan Arjun" (Shah Rukh and Salman) ever appear as Jai and Veeru in future, Salim Khan said: "They are individuals and grown up people, and such things happen, but there cannot be love between rivals. It's not possible. Only saints can do that."

"If Shah Rukh's film does well, Salman will not throw a party and vise versa. Dilip Kumar and Dev Anand had maintained, but now these kids are impatient. They feel bad for small things, but there should be courtesy amongst rivals," he added.

Caught Again! Ranbir, Kat's hide and seek continues

Caught Again! Ranbir, Kat`s hide and seek continues
Monday, November 11, 2013 13:57 IST
One of Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif's midnight rendezvous hit a roadblock on Saturday.

The star apparently took the driver's seat to pick up his ladylove from a preview theatre in Santa.Cruz.

Kat, along with several other Bollywood folk, was watching a private screening of the recent Hollywood film, Captain Phillips. After the movie was over, RK reached the spot along with friend Ayan Mukerji, but when the duo noticed that there are some photographers present at the venue, they took a hurried U turn and made a quick exit from the theatre. Minutes later Katrina left the place in her own car.

Says a source, "It was well past midnight when Ranbir arrived at the preview theatre. He did not step in. He had apparently arrived to pick up Katrina. Probably RK, Kat and Ayan had some late night dinner plans. But when they realised they might get caught on camera, Ranbir decided to drive away."

Adds the source, "He was spotted when the screening was almost complete and when people were stepping out. It was obvious that he had not come to watch the film, but only to pick up Katrina."

Director Kabir Khan and his wife Mini Mathur, Arjun Kapoor, Vidyut Jamwal and choreographer Bosco Martis were also present at the screening. The special viewing of the action thriller starring Tom Hanks was organised for these select few. The buzz is that Kabir Khan is planning a project on its lines.


Of late, Ranbir has been driving around Kat late at night quite often. Looks like he loves being Kat's chauffeur with her car tailing RK's vehicle. 

People orchestrate mood changes in 'Bigg Boss' house: Candy Brar

People orchestrate mood changes in `Bigg Boss` house: Candy Brar

Former model Candy Brar, latest to be evicted from "Bigg Boss - Saath 7", says she was a "nervous wreck" inside the house because of the atmosphere. She feels most of the contestants are actors and they manipulate their moods to be in the limelight.

"It was the atmosphere in there. Everybody was eager to make his or her presence felt. Most of them are actors, so they can orchestrate mood changes to suit their needs," said Candy, who was evicted Saturday.

"Someone like Aijaz Khan knows exactly how to manipulate his moods to provoke others. I couldn't do that. I am not someone from the limelight. I didn't know how to attract attention to myself. I didn't want to," she added.

This was not her first reality show -- she was the runner up of MTV's adventure reality show "Roadies 2".

But she feels that she is not cut out for something like "Bigg Boss".

"That place was not for me. I was there for barely two weeks, and it was suffocating. I just couldn't take it," said Brar, who currently looks after the business and marketing of Showman Entertainment.

"Not that anyone had a fight with me or was rude to me, or anything. Nothing like that. But there was so much negativity in there. If I had stayed one more week, I'd have fallen ill," she added.

Candy has no complaints against the contestants.

"They were all very nice to me. And I've come away with at least four very good friends - Armaan Kohli, Tanisha Mukherjee, Eli Avram and VJ Andy. And yes, from among the new entrants Sofia Hayat. Even the others were okay with me. Nobody raised his or her voice at me."

In fact, Armaan and Tanisha were heard imploring viewers to not eliminate Candy.

"Usually contestants go behind each other's backs and vote against the very people they swear are their friends. But here some of them were actually asking that I not be eliminated. It was heart-warming... but I had to get out."

Candy confesses that on many occasions she found herself on the verge of breaking down. 

"I am the kind of person who gets nervous at the slightest of negativity. Very frequently in there (inside Bigg Boss) when tempers flew high, my heart started palpitating. I'd try to find a corner away from the camera to cry. Maybe I shouldn't have gone in there." 

Candy says the reason she went in there was not money. 

"Nowadays Rs.50 lakh can't even even buy you a home. So money was not the criteria. I went in there because someone I didn't know at all (Vivek Mishra) took my name in the context of (her ex-boyfriend) Kushal Tandon. I suddenly began getting calls from all and sundry asking what was that all about. I am not used to being questioned by relative strangers. 

"I've a very small circle of close friends whom I'm comfortable with. Here I was suddenly getting calls and messages from strangers. I just wanted to go in there and confront this guy. And look at my luck. The guy, who had put me in a compromising position, left. So I was basically left to wonder what I was doing in there."


Candy comes away from "Bigg Boss" swearing never to be part of any reality show. 

"I was on 'Roadies', but it was nothing like 'Bigg Boss'. Here everyone was constantly playing mind games trying to provoke one another for no rhyme or reason. 

"This was no place for me... But it was a learning experience. I've come out maybe a little stronger. I value my loved ones even more now. I can't wait to meet my family again," she said. 

Right now Gauhar Khan, Kamya Punjabi, Pratyusha Banerjee, Aijaz, Tanisha, Andy, Armaan, Elli, Sofia and Sangram Singh are battling it out inside the house.