tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44106279797341634782024-03-05T06:43:46.890-08:00REELLUSIONSA blog about Bollywood Movies, Music, Bollywood News, Bollywood Box Office, Opinion, Hindi Music, Regional movies, and Bollywood StarsREELUSIONSnoreply@blogger.comBlogger49125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4410627979734163478.post-33192733430275487962010-06-19T07:41:00.000-07:002010-06-19T07:45:10.527-07:00Raavan - My Review<img src="http://www.bollysingh.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/27029_10150177840290454_862925453_12066652_6758161_n.jpg" /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><br /><br />In a religious country like India, where people have ended up fighting over Rama and Allah, it needs some courage to take up one of the two greatest epics written and show our worshipped Lord Rama having a grey side to him. It takes even more courage to start telling the story from the villain Raavan’s point of view and justify his actions. Mani Ratnam is his latest film does exactly that when he gives the mythological story a realistic setting in today’s world and twists the story a bit to make people sympathize for the villain of the epic.<br /><br />Abhishek Bachchan plays an outlaw called Beera(Raavan) in the film. Though he goes against the law, the villagers believe in him, his actions, and his ideology which makes him a character like Don Vito Corleone or the Sarkar. The only difference is he is wilder than those. The wildness, ofcourse is to draw parallelism to Raavan’s character in Ramayana. He kidnaps Raagini(Sita) played by Aishwarya Rai Bachchan to kill her for reasons told later in the film. But instead of killing her, he starts falling for her beauty, her bravery. This is where we see the film getting similar to RGV’s Jungle where the lead bandit started falling for Urmilla Matondkar and starts taking wrong decisions.<br /><br />Mani Ratnam goes back to what he is most known for and does the best, depicting violence and terrorism on screen. Though Raavan isn’t exactly a film about terrorism, its style is very similar to those. He might not have come back to his real best, but it seems like he is on his right way now after Guru where I thought he completely lost his way and like other directors got pulled and attracted by commercial brand of cinema. With Raavan, he seems to be coming back to his own.<br /><br />The most pleasing thing in this film is the visuals, the cinematography. Santosh Sivan is really a master of camerawork. He has never disappointed me with his camera work. While Terrorist is his best piece of work for me, Raavan isn’t very far behind. Though shooting infront of the waterfalls, and naturally beautiful scenes makes it easier for him to make the picture look beautiful, he is equally good in indoor scenes and close-up shots. He and Manikandan make the film a visual treat and worth watching just for the visuals alone.<br /><br />Read more from <a href="http://virtuallyreel.wordpress.com/2010/06/19/raavan/">HERE</a>Caulfieldnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4410627979734163478.post-67509876913988492922010-06-17T06:23:00.002-07:002010-06-17T06:49:54.759-07:00The King of Comedy - Govinda<div><img src="http://www.movieinf.com/wp-content/images/2009/08/govinda11.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div>A few funny scenes featuring Govinda. There are lots more and even more funnier ones like Govinda's imitation of SRK, Sunny Deol and his comparison of India and cow, but I could not find it on YouTube.<br /><br /><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/hyWsDfzyvVY&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/hyWsDfzyvVY&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br /><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/SXW3rGSPldE&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/SXW3rGSPldE&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br /><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/sCUcybujJd8&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/sCUcybujJd8&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br /><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/kIETJ_mktu8&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/kIETJ_mktu8&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br />SLAP FEST -<br /><br />The funniest one. -<br /><br /><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/sD8JZiJ1TCY&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/sD8JZiJ1TCY&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br /><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/KCH5JKhkfPE&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/KCH5JKhkfPE&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object>Caulfieldnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4410627979734163478.post-55570362808592260862010-06-15T16:45:00.000-07:002010-06-15T23:59:40.840-07:00Govinda's Gems!<a bitly="BITLY_PROCESSED" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF9W4dN16pJyFUBZSuuoMUYqTDhq1d0vsSgnzotPgm7PfJVIJvcJURMTZXEqG8TyL_IEW1wnXZP9C2WVbhaKhm48Px0sACSIBihIPPoxgDi22fZJciSAsHtQPBqRSAdAfijFtoaXeGTlY/s1600/images-1.jpeg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483171926084186482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF9W4dN16pJyFUBZSuuoMUYqTDhq1d0vsSgnzotPgm7PfJVIJvcJURMTZXEqG8TyL_IEW1wnXZP9C2WVbhaKhm48Px0sACSIBihIPPoxgDi22fZJciSAsHtQPBqRSAdAfijFtoaXeGTlY/s400/images-1.jpeg" style="display: block; height: 138px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 132px;" /></a><br />
<br />
RL is dedicating an entire week in honour of Govinda and his amazing song and dance numbers! So, this is a post on all the crazy wacky songs of Govinda that can be put in the so-bad-its-good category. Please enjoy and add your faves to the collection!<br />
<br />
1. Mera ghoosa bhi sexy mera thappad bhi sexy....Epic song from the 90s!<br />
<br />
<object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/OWdUNZ8TWFo&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/OWdUNZ8TWFo&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br />
<br />
2. This one is dedicated to Shakti Kapoor's awesomeness !<br />
<br />
<object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/aCU_tnnuwEs&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/aCU_tnnuwEs&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br />
<br />
3. It just doesn't get any better than this one!!<br />
<br />
<object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/NwFStpIoJc0&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/NwFStpIoJc0&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br />
<br />
4. What lyrics! Unbeatable!!<br />
<br />
<object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/HhHrV5UsQ_Q&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/HhHrV5UsQ_Q&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br />
<br />
5. And finally who can forget this one? Mere bhi dil ne kholi phir chahat wali file...aankhon aakhon mein matter...LMAO!<br />
<br />
<object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/zmi1C8QMEtE&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/zmi1C8QMEtE&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br />
<br />
Enjoy!!Minnienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4410627979734163478.post-82495546016986377412010-06-13T10:47:00.000-07:002010-06-15T12:39:45.324-07:00My favorite rain songs<a bitly="BITLY_PROCESSED" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZC6CTCNEdSjSr_-8rXExvI586Gn__n-8nGXlUqFHqv5f6FrfyH0CHM_LyJ0h_eq6WTxoRhYzstQQNyidrw0iWyXw8OeohgYHxHikYVVdEHFbqGsdmdpT0bX-N8zc7bCq_Zy_U1Woeowc/s1600/three-leaf-clover-in-rain.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482335438590017058" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZC6CTCNEdSjSr_-8rXExvI586Gn__n-8nGXlUqFHqv5f6FrfyH0CHM_LyJ0h_eq6WTxoRhYzstQQNyidrw0iWyXw8OeohgYHxHikYVVdEHFbqGsdmdpT0bX-N8zc7bCq_Zy_U1Woeowc/s400/three-leaf-clover-in-rain.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
Rain. So beautiful and calming yet so fascinating and magical. As I sit next to the bedroom window, I see the trees adorned with sparkling jewels of moisture and smell the air thick with the scent of the wet earth. As I hear the sounds of the patter of raindrops, the mind relaxes and the heart sings reminding me of a line I read somewhere- “All those who love sunshine have never danced in the rain!” <br />
<br />
As a tribute to the weather in my part of the world, here are my top ten rain songs from bollywood.<br />
<br />
1. Old is Gold! The immortal song from Awaara; completely <span style="font-style: italic;">sui generis</span>! <br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/IyMHuNTJfbk&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/IyMHuNTJfbk&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
2. Zeenie baby swinging in a wet sari and Kaka’s romantic mood! Love this song! <br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/j6ss_Uuf8JM&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/j6ss_Uuf8JM&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
3. Hot! Hot! Hot! Sultry Smita with BigB...need I even say more? Sexiest rain song ever!<br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/l-xpb2ZwFnQ&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/l-xpb2ZwFnQ&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
4. Mumbai monsoon and old school romance. Absolutely nostalgic. <br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/cmD6GfZgKX8&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/cmD6GfZgKX8&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
5. The ethereal beauty of Manisha and RDB’s brilliant composition! Anil Kapoor...ahem... the less said, the better !! <br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/2kzCg1AQ0Og&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/2kzCg1AQ0Og&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
6. Madz magic, Shahrukh’s charm, and Shaimak's superb choreography… Simply Fab!<br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/xnoPwt0ljEU&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/xnoPwt0ljEU&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
7. Melodious song, beautiful picturisation and Shreya’s sweet voice...love Ash in this one! <br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/DEqn32uq7B4&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/DEqn32uq7B4&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
8. Gorgeous Sri and soulful lyrics ! Makes me sad everytime I hear this number.<br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/-FV_eD6gttQ&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/-FV_eD6gttQ&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
9. The good old days when Raveena- Akki affair was at its peak! A bit raunchy but scorching chemistry !!<br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Qid6akj2bB4&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Qid6akj2bB4&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
10. Lastly, a Gulzaar number.… his incredible poetry always manages to move me! <br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/x9oJXgbK8QI&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/x9oJXgbK8QI&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
I’ll end with the lyrics of the classic Beatles Rain Song- <br />
<br />
If the rain comes <br />
they run and hide their heads <br />
They might as well be dead <br />
If the rain comes <br />
If the rain comes<br />
<br />
Of course, there are so many more great rain songs picturised; I look forward to listening to your fave ones!Minnienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4410627979734163478.post-57340672207628196712010-06-10T19:11:00.000-07:002010-06-10T19:24:36.915-07:00Sultry mood is not enough - Before the Rains<img alt="" src="http://www.indiantvtoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/before_rains210809.jpg" title="BTR" class="alignnone" width="400" height="250" /><br />I had to hunt down where this film was playing - it was 70 miles away and I took a road trip to go catch it. The reviews have been so good, it is made by Sivan, has Nandita Das AND Rahul Bose so it seemed well worth the effort. Unfortunately I feel really let down by the film. It seems specifically made to cater to a Western audience and is less Indian than Darjeeling Limited! Sivan tells an engaging enough tale that the 90+ minutes do not hang heavy on your hands but the characters are not well etched at all. I went in expecting an Indian Ink (Stoppard) or a Passage to India (EM Forster), at the very least I was hoping for a Heat and Dust, but this is lower than that Ruth Praver Jhabvala fare.<br /><br />Nandita Das plays Sajani, a woman who works as maidservant to the Moores family headed by Linus Roache as Henry Moores. While the wife (Jennifer Ehle) and son are away, Henry gets into an adulterous love affair with Sajani. With the help of TK, a local village man who is English educated, Henry is trying to build a road to improve the spice trade. Sajani is married to a brutish fellow, he does find out and all hell breaks loose. There is the obligatory tragic ending but you watch it from the outside with clinical detachment. The white man is a spineless fellow, the white woman a large hearted up-standing woman (like the white women in Lagaan, RDB).<br /><br />Nandita Das has a meaningless role that she cannot sink her teeth into, Rahul Bose is equally wasted in the role of a man who is neither fish nor fowl, but caught between two cultures. So much could have been made of this character. Linus Roach plays the gutless white man exceedingly well, you hate him and yet you also know where he is coming from. Jennifer Ehle is wonderful in a small role as the woman full of empathy.<br /><br />What Sivan does best is showcase the canvas, the photography is absolutely stunning. The locales are full of magic and every shimmering dew drop, the frog jumping into the pond, the mist rising from the tree tops, is all magically captured by his lens. Where he loses out is in etching the characters better, and having more to the story itself. This is a thin tale....<br />Read more <a href="http://pakhipakhi.wordpress.com/2010/06/09/sultry-mood-is-not-enough-before-the-rains/"a>HERE</a>Pardesinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4410627979734163478.post-27801198344070994292010-06-09T18:55:00.000-07:002010-06-09T19:44:08.134-07:00Love in the times of Cholera - The Painted Veil<img alt="" src="http://www.moviewallpaper.net/wpp/Edward_Norton_in_The_Painted_Veil_Wallpaper_3_800.jpg" title="poster" class="alignnone" width="400" height="300" /><br />The Painted Veil is my favorite Somerset Maugham novel so I was concerned about how much justice could be done to this hauntingly beautiful story of revenge, love and redemption. Is it possible to take a masterpiece and make a decent film out of it in Hollywood? Apparently yes! Could the movie have been better - absolutely, but does it get the job done well? I'd say yes.<br /><br />Ed Norton is Walter - a bacteriologist stationed in Shangai. In London he meets and falls in love with the beautiful Kitty (Naomi Watts), hasty marriage and honeymoon in Venice later they are both in China. He is busy - she is bored. And what better way to relieve boredom than an extramarital affair with Charlie - the philandering consular official (Liev Schrieber)? But Walter discovers the affair and decides to volunteer to a cholera stricken province and take Kitty with him. Charlie was never serious anyway so off they go into the jaws of death. In the cholera infested back of beyond Walter and Kitty discover more about each other than they did in many months of marriage. A mutual respect grows into something else but it is a cholera infested region after all. So the tale must have a tragic ending and it does. But it leaves one with a sense of relief as the camera finally moves away from the oppressive dark tones and into light.<br /><br />The movie has beautiful performances by Ed Norton and Ms. Watts. His serious, then almost sinister, then enlightened Walter is the perfect foil to her luminous, wicked and then vulnerable Kitty. Liev Schrieber is good in the brief role as Charlie and all the supporting cast is very good indeed. The locale is stunning and the mood is brilliantly captured in the dark, the shadows and moments of light.<br /><br />Read more <a href="http://pakhipakhi.wordpress.com/2010/06/08/love-in-the-times-of-cholera-the-painted-veil/"a>HERE</a>Pardesinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4410627979734163478.post-45122863521713150112010-06-08T09:58:00.000-07:002010-06-10T19:45:28.690-07:00The beginning of Kalyug - Raajneeti!<img class="alignnone" title="review" src="http://img.indiaglitz.com/hindi/reviews/rajneeti040610_1.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="200" /><br />Prakash Jha's films are political, usually on explosive subjects, and rooted in the hinterland. His return to movie making after several years still had Ajay Devgan (except somewhere along the way Ajay dropped an "a" to become Devgn), the film was still on a political subject, and non-metro in focus. Despite by Bihari roots, I am not a huge fan of the earlier Jha films, so I did not have many expectations from Raajneeti.<br /><br />It was amply clear that Rajneeti would have many elements of the epic Mahabharata once the son born out of wedlock (Karn) was abandoned to be picked up and adopted by a lower-caste couple. However, this is not an exact re-telling of the epic in a modern setting, though much is retained. The battle for political power between two brothers and their progeny is at the heart of this tale, replete with the older getting handicapped, the banishment of the progeny of the younger brother, and the siding of the bastard with the enemies of his half-brothers! But also mixed in is a tale of political intrigue, machinations, explosions, and assassinations. Some parallels to the Godfather are apparent, as is the most obvious parallel to the Gandhi family! Here we have two brothers instead of 5, and the older dies a violent death in a blast. Then his wife picks up the reins of power after his death. Raajneeti is a taut thriller with a relentless pace through the first half, that takes an abrupt turn into a game of political chess with checks after checks in the second half. The pace does slacken and the tale gets a little more outlandish in the latter third of the film, but not enough to let the interest flag.<br /><br />There are enough deaths and attempted deaths to hint at utter lawlessness in the state that is the arena for this story. But the storyteller's prerogative directs that he tell the story in his own way, creating a reality that he draws us into, while not necessarily creating a "REAL" reality. After all a paralyzed party president would not wield power for months after his incapacitation, nor would elected politicians expect their seat to be inherited. The best way to enjoy Raajneeti is to simply let go of preconceived notions, put aside all thoughts of the Mahabharata and the Indian constitutions and plunge headlong into the story being spun by Mr. Jha and co-writer Anjum Rajabali. This is Raajneeti after all, where women are mere pawns in the game, and where men fight lawfully and illegally, with fists and guns and bombs, and sometimes simply with a quiet statement that pulls the carpet out from under the opponent's feet.<br /><br />The characters are all shades except white, and the game is a simple one - to win at all costs. The seemingly innocent are not, and most of the conniving is behind the scenes by three of the quietest characters in the film - Nana Patekar, Ajay Devgn and Ranbir Kapoor. The firebrands are Manoj Bajpai and Arjun Rampal, yet they are constantly manipulated by the quiet ones. The women are place holders until we see the alliance between Prithvi Pratap (Arjun Rampal) and Indu (Katrina Kaif), and the setting up of a successor in Indu. However, Jha does present us women with political ambitions. Thus Bharati (Nikhila Tirkha) is a leftist activist influenced by Naseeruddin Shah, Shruti Seth wants the Satara ka ticket, and Indu (Katrina) promises Samar (Ranbir Kapoor) that she will be a minister before he returns. The only woman with no political ambitions is Sarah (Sarah Jane Thompson), the white girlfriend of Samar Pratap. We barely get a glimpse of the woman who tends to her paralyzed husband (as Gandhari did), so she does not quite count. It is also interesting that every woman, except the "knowing and using" Shruti, ends up pregnant. However, it is only the Naseer Nikhila episode that follows a rain drenched 70s "roop tera mastana" type track, the other two are couples who have been in or have begun a committed relationship. But except for Shruti, they are more idealist and pure of heart; the blackness that envelops the menfolk, spares the women. The men start out with a conventional Kaurav badness (Veerendra Pratap - Manoj Bajpai) and Pandav goodness (Prithvi and Samar - Arjun Rampal, and Ranbir Kapoor). But while Manoj Bajpai stays in his role of all for power, and end justifying the means, the brothers rapidly turn to darker and darker shades of gray as the film progresses. Nana Patekar is an adviser and well wisher of the Pandav branch. He is a Vidur like character, as he advises the paralyzed leader to give up his powers to his younger brother, much as Vidur negotiated the transfer of power from Dhritarashtra to Pandu. But later Nana also takes on the role of Krishna and becomes an adviser to the sons Prithvi and Samar as the political battle for succession ensues. The transformation of Samar Pratap seems to happen in the span of a few minutes, but Jha uses the subtlest hints from the youngest member of his cast effectively to show the dying and then dead father, the punch to the face from a policeman, and the arrest of his elder brother. This is enough to awake the inner demons and start Samar off in a game to outmanoeuvre Veerendra Pratap and get his brother Prithvi into power. His intentions are read (and approved) by his uncle, and together they start the game of chess with Veerendra Pratap and Sooraj (the abandoned illegitimate son).<br /><br />The acting by the male cast is top notch. Leading the pack we have Nana Patekar in a subtle and effective role that subdues his histrionic ability and instead brings out the most nuanced performance from him in a long time. Next comes the performance from Manoj Bajpai. He excels as the conniving and selfish Veerendra Pratap. He wants power and will not wait for it. The anger, the fits of the sullens, and the drunken episodes are all exceptionally well done. Ranbir Kapoor is going from strength to strength and here as the academic who turns into a violent schemer, he is subtle, and with the barest quiver in his cheeks or flicker of an eyelid he conveys a lot. It is not easy to shine in a cast like the one in Raajneeti, but Ranbir manages to do exactly that. Ajay Devgn does not have a big role on screen, though many of the events in the film are set into motion by him in moments not portrayed on screen. I wonder if large chunks of his role ended up on the editing table. He is intense and intense and has very few other emotions. There are two standout moments - one of extreme indecision when he cannot shoot Samar as he now knows the man is his half brother, and the other of shock and disbelief when Samar shoots him. Arjun Rampal does well as the suave Prithvi who wants to be a politician, and one can only blame Jha for turning him into a psychopath in the ending moments of the film. There is no indication in his character graph that he would take such a turn. The women do not amount to much nor do they have much of a role to talk about. The mother, Nikhila Tirkha, is just not a good actress, so her moments on screen drag the film down a bit. Shruti Seth plays the slutty party worker appropriately. Samar's girlfriend Sarah is ok, but her talking is almost like she is teaching an ESL class, enunciating each word carefully. Last but not least, Katrina Kaif is no doubt a big draw in the film, but she is also a big letdown until the final moments. Her lips are inflating at an alarming rate and soon she will not be able to talk at all. The dubbed parts are poor with little sync between lip movements (when the silicone permits movement) and what we hear, and when she does speak it hardly wows as it is supposed to.<br /><br />Mr. Jha shows mastery over the crowd scenes to the point where one can feel the crush of bodies and smell the dust. This gives the large political canvas a reality that is not usually seen in such films. Enough is shown of the families, their milieu and their interactions to make the lives of these people real and not a cardboard facade. The action sequences are taut and provide thrills enough to keep the audience engaged for the almost 3 hour run time. The end of the Mahabharata signified the beginning of Kalyug, and Rajneeti shows the ugly side of politics in this Kalyug. The characters seem beyond redemption and hopeless. Then in one stroke we have the rise to power of the most idealistic among the group, a woman who wants to distinguish between good and evil, and whose hands have no blood on them. This lifts the film out of bleakness and into a realm of hope.<br /><br />While thoroughly engaging, this is by no means a flawless film. The casting of Katrina Kaif is incongruous in the mix of mostly excellent actors. The mother is totally miscast....<br /><br />Read more <a href="http://pakhipakhi.wordpress.com/2010/06/07/the-beginning-of-kalyug-raajneeti/"a>HERE</a>Pardesinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4410627979734163478.post-20218333156186804562010-06-04T14:57:00.000-07:002010-06-04T16:27:23.518-07:00Raajneeti – Disappointing<img src="http://bhaskarranjan.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/raajneeti2.jpg?w=500&h=333" /><br />
<div><br />
</div><div>One of the most awaited films this year, due mostly to the director and the stellar star cast, Raajneeti carried a lot of expectations on its shoulders. But here we are let down first and foremost by the director himself. Prakash Jha deals with too many characters in this film and in the end it turned out to be a disadvantage for him and the film. I felt a few characters should have been developed more. Ranbir Kapoor’s and Manoj Bajpai’s character were among the very well written ones. Ajay Devgn’s character too had “dome” motive in the start, but in the second half even his actions were not well justified. Katrina Kaif was hardly even there in the first half.<br />
<br />
The major problem of Raajneeti is the scripting; Jha gave more preference to how to bring in Mahabharata in the film than to concentrating on the current politics, which should have been the main plot. The elements and characters of Mahabharata should have been add-ons. He was concentrating more on the character of Dhrithrashtra who was a less important character in Mahabharata, at least if we are only using elements of Mahabharata in a different story to tell. And Raajneeti wasn’t staying so true to Mahabharata that it should have characters like Dhrithrashtra when there are only 2 Pandavas and Dhrithrashtra has only one son.<br />
<br />
The film turns into an unintentional comedy because of all these extra doses of Mahabharata going on and a few more scenes of poor writing. Katrina Kaif saying “I love you” to Arjun Rampal and when Ranbir/Arjun’s mother tries to tell Ajay Devgn that she is his real mother are laughable moments. And in a film which is supposed to connect with the youth, who uses words like ‘<i>jaisth</i>’ (meaning eldest) in the dialogs - “<i>Tum mere jaisth putra ho</i>.”<br />
<br />
It also turns illogical sometimes, when you see a mother going to meet someone when she has just lost her son and hasn’t even performed the antim sanskar. The film really misses the word EMOTION. Everyone here including brother, sister, mother, father was more interested in politics than their personal relationship. It is true in politics, people are more concerned about winning and losing, but even a mother? I can’t take that. Katrina Kaif was married to Arjun Rampal because he was standing up for the post of chief minister. I don’t see why a father of a girl will sell her daughter to a person and give over 50 crores rupees as dowry; especially when her daughter is Katrina Kaif. And Katrina Kaif did not turn the match down, which again was unjustified. The script really needed more effort and even though the duration of the film was around 170 mins, it still was incomplete. Although after seeing how the things going in the film and emotional moments turning into hilarious scenes, I was happy it was left incomplete. It would have been difficult to take more.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Read more from <a bitly="BITLY_PROCESSED" href="http://virtuallyreel.wordpress.com/2010/06/05/raajneeti-disappointing/">HERE</a></div>Caulfieldnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4410627979734163478.post-84549787730149337272010-06-03T10:05:00.000-07:002010-06-04T16:27:59.009-07:00Discovering a continent and an ideology - Motorcycle Diaries!<img alt="" class="alignnone" height="600" src="http://www.viewclips.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/motorcycle_diaries.jpg" title="poster" width="400" /><br />
The year is 1952, and Ernesto "Fuser" Guevara is a 4th year medical student in Buenos Aires, his friend Alberto Granado a biochemist. They embark on an epic journey on an aging Norton 500 motorcycle (called The Mighty One) - their goal to traverse the continent of South America and end up in Peru working at a leper colony. They are affluent, indulged, and fun seeking. Their journey takes them across the Andes, Chilean coast, the Atacama desert, across the Amazon into Venezuela. The Mighty One barely holds up, and the men's attempt to pick up women lead them into one scrape after another, until in one hasty attempt to flee the motorcycle is turned into a tangled mess. Thereafter the journey is by carts, lorries, and even boats. And along the way they meet more people of the Americas, appreciate that all are one people, come to see the plight of the indigenous people, forced to flee their homes and work at hard labor in mines. Finally they arrive in Lima and then go to the San Pablo leper colony. There the patients live on one side of the Amazon, and the attendants, doctors and nurses on the other. This great divide parallels the divide between the haves and the have-nots and changes Guevara forever. On his final night he embarks on a symbolic swim across the swollen and dangerous river, giving us a foretaste of what is to become of him as he will embark on a dangerous journey to try and better the lives of the underprivileged across the continent.<br />
<br />
The film is dreamily shot and the travelogue part could well belong in a National Geographic video. The steppes, the snow covered Andes, the ruins of Machu Pichchu, the Amazon, the bleak mines all come vividly into life. Based on the book by Che Guevara (of the same name) and supplemented by information from Back on the Road: A Journey Through Latin America by Alberto Granado, the story is a simple one, that of a journey of self discovery. And for the most part it is a humorous and fun filled tale of young men on the road. Mexican actor Gael García Bernal plays Guevara.....<br />
More <a a="" bitly="BITLY_PROCESSED" href="http://pakhipakhi.wordpress.com/2010/06/02/discovering-a-continent-and-an-ideology-motorcycle-diaries/">HERE</a>Pardesinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4410627979734163478.post-85970952463227546132010-05-26T19:10:00.000-07:002010-05-26T19:57:05.638-07:00Goodbye Shrek !<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a bitly="BITLY_PROCESSED" href="http://image3.examiner.com/images/blog/EXID30697/images/Shrek_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://image3.examiner.com/images/blog/EXID30697/images/Shrek_4.jpg" width="273" /></a></div><br /><br /><span style=" ;font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:small;">Loosely based upon a story by children’s author William Steig (Sylvester and the Magic Pebble), Shrek is a satiric fairy-tale love story which has been genuinely funny and entertaining since its inception. Having watched all the previous three movies of this franchise multiple times, I must admit I was quite looking forward to the final chapter and hoping that the beloved ogre leaves us on a high note. And he does. Heartfelt and hilarious, this sequel is inspired heavily from Capra’s “Its a Wonderful Life”. </span><br /><div style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:small;">The film starts brilliantly by showing a montage of Shrek’s life replete with three squalling and rambunctious li’l ogres, a loving wife Fiona and a great friend Donkey. In short, a perfect but boring life. And of course Shrek hates it like any other man going through a mid-life crisis! The images are then shown in rapid succession where every passing day is worse than the previous day, until one day Shrek finally throws a royal fit on one of the kid’s birthday and wishes aloud that things could go back to what they were before he had ever met Fiona! As they say, you never know how good things are until they are gone! </span></div><br /><a bitly="BITLY_PROCESSED" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiazjNt_FQBMfCOuWxWMSYJOp5Vi8u_FSLJMFfZ8CfVPApm3cr_uy_89bwo_TlhwBoK4lLS83zdQ7ZCwXLTb-DvQBdxF8U-YAPV3HEQ3lPbas9TcmSuePVRxqq23XgT9XCdE1p7jIeKi2s/s1600/alg_shrek.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475767593828965778" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiazjNt_FQBMfCOuWxWMSYJOp5Vi8u_FSLJMFfZ8CfVPApm3cr_uy_89bwo_TlhwBoK4lLS83zdQ7ZCwXLTb-DvQBdxF8U-YAPV3HEQ3lPbas9TcmSuePVRxqq23XgT9XCdE1p7jIeKi2s/s400/alg_shrek.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 298px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br /><br /><div style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:small;">Enter the sleazy snarky villain Rumpelstiltskin (Walt Dohrn), the famous trickster from Brothers Grimm fairy tales. The vengeful devil with ridiculous spiky red hair and predatory eyes convinces the naive ogre to sign away any one day of his childhood. In return, Shrek gets to live one day of his life the way he would have liked; a life of no responsibilites, a life where he can make mud angels till the cows came home, a life where the villagers are still scared of his mighty roar! And, of course the evil guy chooses the day Shrek was born. What follows then is life in an alternate universe where Rumpelstiltskin is the ruler of the kingdom and witches rule the roost! Shrek has never met Fiona and his friends Donkey and Puss don’t recognize him. But of course, there is a way to fix all things! Shrek discovers that a “true love’s kiss” is the only way to undo the contract, but can he do it by the end of the day? </span></div><div style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:small;">This story is by far the most interesting of all. It doesn’t rely on gimmicks and pop culture references throughout like the first one. The wit and the humor is quite fast-paced. The characters are very engaging and the voices are as sharp and funny as ever. Shrek (Mike Myers) as always is the endearing slob that we all have grown to love and Fiona (Cameron Diaz) is the warrior ogre-princess who is a tough nut to crack. She doesn’t wait to be rescued in this one, she rescues herself, quite a nice change from the usual !! Both of them bring immense warmth to their characters. Donkey (Eddy Murphy) is still as howlarious and cheeky as ever, and Puss (Antonio Bendares) is a pampered house cat now who is too fat to fit in his boots! He still uses his big sad eyes expression eliciting a major awwww in the theater !! </span></div><div style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:small;">I’m not sure if the 3D animation really added to the overall experience of the movie. For the most part, I found the glasses annoying and would have preferred watching the sharper, crisper colors without the 3D effect. </span></div><div style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size:small;">After having gone horribly wrong with Shrek The Third, the makers went back to telling a simple story with its heart in the right place. And they score with this one. If this really is the final chapter of this terrific franchise, I for one am quite sad to bid goodbye to beloved ogre!</span></div>Minnienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4410627979734163478.post-20341038570025535202010-05-24T14:07:00.000-07:002010-05-24T15:43:16.440-07:00A grand opera or Kati Patang? KITES!<img alt="" class="alignnone" height="744" src="http://bollywood.celebden.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/hrithikbarbara.jpg" title="Kites" width="420" /><br />
A film like Kites can really be reviewed at two levels. Is it indeed a crossover film that strikes most of the right notes, or is it mushy 3 penny romance masquerading as a grand opera? The film was two years in the making and came to us carrying HUGE expectations. Hrithik was on an all time high, not having had a misstep since 2002 (Mujhse Dosti Karoge). I think one can discount Main Prem Ki Diwani Hoon (2003) as he also had a mammoth Koi Mil Gaya that year. But the law of averages looks to have finally caught up with him. In an attempt to create a cross-over film, the Roshan combine has created something that is neither chalk nor cheese and is dull and boring into the bargain.<br />
<br />
How does one review Kites? Should I talk about the fact that a film that is supposed to be foreign pasta and not desi biriyani, fails to take into account the fact that Las Vegas is a desert and it almost never rains there, that there is no ocean with reefs withing any reasonable radius of the city, the Mexico is FAR FAR away, that it is OK for movies like Singh is KINGG to show Melbourne being run by the Sikh mafia, but a crossover film should not show a family of Indian origin running a city and state in the US in a mafia like hold? I could go on and on, but that would be cruel to a film like Kites. It really does not stand up to such scrutiny. So what is Kites then? Is it a breathless frothy romantic actioner? Is it a desi/bidesi Romancing the Stone or even a slicker Dhoom 2? I really wish that were the case. I wish the film was a fun filled romp that kept me entertained and engaged so I did not have to start analyzing the inane plot and the slow pace. <br />
<br />
What are the positives then?<br />
<br />
1. Barbara Mori does come out as a surprise, I did not expect acting competence but there is that in decent measure (though her ultra toothy smile got on my nerves after a while).<br />
<br />
2. The cinematography was really superb, slick and sophisticated, and world class, We expect that with people like Santosh Sivan and Ravi Chandran, but this was Ayananka Bose, a job well done.<br />
<br />
3. Hrithik's FIRE dance sequence starts out very 90s but the spin on his head is gold. Why a Salsa teacher does break dancing in a competition is anyone's guess. He is sincere and tries very hard in the film, so marks for effort.<br />
<br />
What does not work at all:<br />
<br />
1. The Las Vegas mafia is laughable, and the Reservoir Dogs moment is shoddy. In fact the film lifts many moments from many films, but then you never expect an original product from director Anurag Basu.<br />
<br />
2. The chases are interminable and laughable, the one on the big rig is particularly bad, as the cop cars wait for car after car to crash into them, and they never move to the next lane (I am not even going to talk about the oblivious big-rig driver).<br />
<br />
3. Hrithik and Barbara chemistry is okayish, but one never warms up to it, as we have no idea why they even fell in love. <br />
<br />
4. The villain is laughably bad, and really drags down the film. And I do not mean cult bad in a Mogambo-ish way, but plain bad.<br />
<br />
Read more <a a="" bitly="BITLY_PROCESSED" href="http://pakhipakhi.wordpress.com/2010/05/24/a-grand-opera-or-kati-patang-kites/">HERE</a>Pardesinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4410627979734163478.post-50950026725859028822010-05-23T16:13:00.000-07:002010-05-24T01:12:38.156-07:00Robin Hood- I’d rather wait for the sequel !!<a bitly="BITLY_PROCESSED" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeWN9sZ8P3NEHDA6n_b_SyYbxWumr_YduORw4VUTkqwuQBl767lR6zpUEOLJTz3IM6qyFq3dHZp9_x1IuBXiz1syVDJ2hQq5Nlzs1F7SU5FcmdRV63wVHgqBNDRj3wIiCK1oJEh5u5-ZU/s1600/images-1.jpeg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474653782768823234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeWN9sZ8P3NEHDA6n_b_SyYbxWumr_YduORw4VUTkqwuQBl767lR6zpUEOLJTz3IM6qyFq3dHZp9_x1IuBXiz1syVDJ2hQq5Nlzs1F7SU5FcmdRV63wVHgqBNDRj3wIiCK1oJEh5u5-ZU/s400/images-1.jpeg" style="display: block; height: 145px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 98px;" /></a><br />
<br />
As I stepped in the theater last weekend with a large bucket of popcorn in my hand, I expected to see a feel-good familiar tale of everyone’s favorite childhood hero Robin Hood who robs the rich to give to the poor. I expected a tale full of adventure and comedy and goodness and above all, fun! Sadly enough, Ridley Scott’s Robin Hood is none of those. Instead it is a gritty, overly serious epic all jazzed up with brilliant technology. Well, we already knew that the terrific duo of Ridley Scott and Russell Crowe could deliver “epic”- after all, their impeccable history speaks for itself ! But where their vision faltered, was in not giving this brilliantly shot film a “soul” and a bit of “merry”- after all, isnt that why we fell in love with that vagabond thief in the first place? <br />
<br />
Robin Hood is played by Russel Crowe with an extremely serious, and grouchy expression, often times appearing uninterested- definitely NOT the merry, and more importantly, the inspiring Robin Hood I anticipated! I think the first hint of a smile appeared on his face after three fourth of the movie was over! The film is set in the England of 12th century where our hero is an expert archer in the army of King Richard the Lionheart (Danny Huston). The plot is extremely convoluted (sometimes appearing like a documentary) where the English are fighting the French. After the King dies, Robin Longstride assumes the identity of a nobleman to bring back the crown to the future King John, the tax-happy brother of Richard (played superbly by Oscar Isaac). <br />
<br />
<a bitly="BITLY_PROCESSED" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK74PLDsdfMWE7IyJaIEHHNm7dJHGh9IB8aN8ec4Jx04SDh9HCUwjElJYVqnTyUuU_LOcWIwkKsz_2JNjx0cmr0hG_-R-dR4TjMVTXkRNGrWAuG-h-hxpvRWj87Ed84uxi93DjmKk_XyE/s1600/2010_robin_hood_004.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474639491406203874" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK74PLDsdfMWE7IyJaIEHHNm7dJHGh9IB8aN8ec4Jx04SDh9HCUwjElJYVqnTyUuU_LOcWIwkKsz_2JNjx0cmr0hG_-R-dR4TjMVTXkRNGrWAuG-h-hxpvRWj87Ed84uxi93DjmKk_XyE/s400/2010_robin_hood_004.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 284px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
<br />
Robin also has another mission to accomplish- return the sword to the dead nobleman’s blind father (von Sydow) in Nottingham. There he meets the nobleman’s widow, the proud and fiesty Lady Marian played brilliantly by Cate Blanchett. This is where you see the phenomenol actors that Crowe and Blanchett really are! Their scenes together can only be defined in one word- Awesomeness! The climax battle scenes are perfectly shot -quite muddy and bloody! Quite a cinematic experience seeing those aerial shots of the English and French armies and all the arrow wizardry going on! But with a runtime of 140 minutes, by the time the movie reached its climax after a long winding history lesson, my popcorn was all gone and I was more than ready to leave! The last few scenes show Robin Hood as an outlaw- FINALLY!<br />
<br />
In the end, the movie just attempts doing too much- an epic revisionist drama with a complex political narrative but ends up being a heavy mishmash of a not-so-engaging tale. It has been accurately described as a story behind the legend- a prequel to the story we all know and love. I left the theater wishing I had waited for the sequel instead!!Minnienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4410627979734163478.post-18749470475629369352010-05-12T10:30:00.000-07:002010-05-13T07:24:31.963-07:00Melodies of Mumtaz<a bitly="BITLY_PROCESSED" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw_DDB0Uq29-3BZlv9IOtD82RozqNAivqrI6T5bt8KuQgcKocp4znxlF_iopzn_U0iJqY7c54R3SLSpTWBLqWhBwVUgHXlhLcCMpEi1ctgCyHtaI7rQNDYT4t56j2u8k27-OwGlsngz1w/s1600/mumtaz-3.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469446564490458930" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw_DDB0Uq29-3BZlv9IOtD82RozqNAivqrI6T5bt8KuQgcKocp4znxlF_iopzn_U0iJqY7c54R3SLSpTWBLqWhBwVUgHXlhLcCMpEi1ctgCyHtaI7rQNDYT4t56j2u8k27-OwGlsngz1w/s320/mumtaz-3.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 300px;" /></a><br />
Mumtaz, the beautiful and bubbly actress from the golden 60s and early 70s is often remembered by today’s generation for the scintillating song and dance numbers she performed in her movies. Her mesmerizing appeal lay in her sparkling eyes and dazzling smile and of course, in the oodles of oomph she possessed! To quote Shobhaa De, “she was in the Marilyn Monroe mould- every man’s fantasy woman”! Even though she won filmfare best actress award, Mumtaz was by and large typecast for eye candy roles probably due to her infectious charm and inherent <span style="font-style: italic;">joi de vivre</span>. She was offered fewer performance-oriented roles than her contemporaries like Sharmila Tagore. However, she was eventually recognized for her contribution to Hindi cinema by a Lifetime achievement award in 1996. For the last few years, Mumtaz has been battling cancer in her life with the same indomitable spunk and never-say-die spirit which had once made her the heartthrob of millions. Here’s wishing Mumtaz a very happy and healthy long life! <br />
<br />
Enjoy my top dozen picks from her vast repertoire of brilliant songs!<br />
<br />
1. Super-energetic Shammi, gorgeous Mumu, crazy music, and twist dance….need i even say more?<br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/wJHiOOzuwM4&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/wJHiOOzuwM4&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
2. A gem from Lakshmikant Pyarelal ! Lata’s voice has a mischievious quality in this song that used to be Asha’s trademark style! <br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/c1fkyWVKHk0&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/c1fkyWVKHk0&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
3. The iconic number from the magical duo of RD Burman and Asha superbly picturized on screen by the awesome pair of Rajesh Khanna and Mumtaz. Just wish Mumu’s damned wig wasn’t so yellow and Kaka wasn’t such a pathetic dancer!! <br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/YfjnEqMbBpg&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/YfjnEqMbBpg&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
4. When Lakshmikant-Pyarelal, Anand Bakshi and Mohd. Rafi come together, what else can one expect in a song other than perfection….and perfection it is in this romantic poetry! Mumtaz looked stunning in this one!<br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/kY3UpGqU7vY&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/kY3UpGqU7vY&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
5. An absolute masterpiece duet by RD Burman ! The beautiful rendition by Kishore and Lata, scorching chemistry of Rajesh-Mumtaz and brilliant picturization- What more could one ask for? <br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/pOUlaUBI_gU&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/pOUlaUBI_gU&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
6. I don’t think the festival of Holi goes by any year without this number being played everywhere! The crazy abandon of Rajesh-Mumtaz after a shot of bhaang...beyond awesome! <br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/xApijNIJBt8&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/xApijNIJBt8&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
7. A brilliant song by Rafi! A handsome Dharmendra steals the show here from Mumtaz- but that could clearly be my bias speaking! Confession- I absolutely adore Dharam Paaji….according to me, he is the most good-looking star we have ever had in Bollywood! <br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/YhTu1oa7JGk&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/YhTu1oa7JGk&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
8. The seductive voice of Asha and a sexy Mumtaz playing a vamp and trying to seduce Biswajeet with her beguiling charms- Deadly combo!! <br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/t78PcMCFDeg&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/t78PcMCFDeg&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
9. An unforgettable classic by Lakshmikant Pyarelal! Mumu dancing in rain in those tight churidars with a young Rajesh Khanna...so retro 60s and yet so cool ! <br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/YKCH9qd77y0&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/YKCH9qd77y0&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
10. The super-glamorous Mumtaz dances with gay abandon here... What a presence! She literally burnt the screen here with her shimmering sensuality and owned the scenes completely inspite of the presence of heavyweights like Dharam, Feroz, and Saira! <br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/TVxCAwqONcI&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/TVxCAwqONcI&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
11. Soft and melodious- penned by the poet Neeraj, such profound lyrics and soul-stirring music!! <br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Ucj4G5kMAHk&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Ucj4G5kMAHk&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
12. A terrific romantic duet by Kishore and Lata! A personal fave of mine! <br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/5LbTE3o3sL8&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/5LbTE3o3sL8&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
Enjoy these golden classics and I look forward to your choices !!<br />
<br />
P.S. I apologize for flooding this post with Rajesh-Mumtaz duets, but before I get accused of die-hard romanticism here, I think most of her unforgettable songs are romantic duets with Rajesh Khanna!Minnienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4410627979734163478.post-9400823897819257792010-05-09T01:10:00.000-07:002010-05-09T16:45:25.135-07:00How to tell if it’s a great thriller – that certain sense of unease!<img alt="" class="alignnone" height="300" src="http://www.fearwerx.com/images/thrill_me.jpg" title="thrill" width="300" /><br />
I recently re-watched (for the nth time) that great Vijay Anand thriller Jewel Thief. Clearly there is no mystery left in the film for me, and yet it never fails to entertain me, more so if I happen to watch it with someone untutored in the way this film keeps us guessing until the last 15 minutes. The reactions it evokes always manage to refresh the film for me. They also remind me of reactions I have had to other great thrillers. After much thinking, I can only sum these up as a sense of unease that stays with you until the mystery is revealed. <br />
<img alt="" class="alignnone" height="380" src="http://theviewspaper.net/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/race.jpg" title="Race" width="300" /><br />
A poor thriller is one where you have no clue what is going on, and the script is not designed to give you any hints at all! Then at the last minute a surprise is thrown at you and you go - WTF! Some films I can think of that fall into this category are the recent Abbas Mustaan thriller RACE, Nagesh Kukunoor's 8X10 Tasveer (though the latter tried somewhat to bring in a psychological angle but it was an epic fail). The worst ones do not even throw the viewer a red herring, let alone any real clue.<br />
<br />
A great thriller is one where the filmmaker plays with the viewer, throwing enough subtle hints around to create a sense of unease in our minds. Of course the goal is to keep the viewer guessing, but with a buy-in into the mystery. So the hints are there but camouflaged, now revealed and then cleverly cloaked again. And it is this hide and seek game that creates a sense of unease in the viewer, making him subconsciously aware that all is not as it seems, yet overtly engaged in the way the story progresses. This sort of structure is what makes a thriller successful for me. And it forces me to revisit the film, and then the second (or nth) time around to take immense pleasure in seeking out the various hints and enjoying them and marveling at how they managed to stay there yet hidden on first view.<br />
<img alt="" class="alignnone" height="424" src="http://www.uiowa.edu/%7Eincinema/jewelthief.jpg" title="Jewel Thief" width="300" /><br />
I want to describe a few such moments from my favorite thrillers and also to discuss where that sense of discomfort came from (is a spoiler warning necessary? - then be warned please, SPOILERS COMING UP!!). Let me start with Jewel Thief and the almost doppelganger in the film. Vinay (Dev Anand) is being deliciously set up to take the fall for the Jewel Thief, and in a most persistent manner. The presence of Amar is so real, that you expect him to appear at any minute, yet he has no corporeal form! He has henchmen, girlfriends, wives, enemies; he writes notes, steals jewelry, disappears moments before Vinay can see him and the only thing that distinguishes him from Vinay is an extra toe on his left foot. The sense of unease is in HOW CLOSE we are to seeing him so many times, and how we are thwarted at every turn. By the time we find out the truth the film is almost over and we still cannot tell if Vinay knows or not! This is masterful story telling and makes Jewel Thief a classic for the ages.<br />
<img alt="" class="alignnone" height="434" src="http://www.mybindi.com/images/bollywood/Don2006.jpg" title="Don" width="300" /><br />
One sees an almost similar graph in the "remake" of the 1978 film Don. The new avatar is Don - The Chase Begins again, and now we are dealing with true doppelgangers, with no extra toe to distinguish them. Part of the unease starts with how familiar most film-goers are with the old classic. We know what to expect, and we want it to happen the same tested and tried way in this new slicked and souped-up version. And it almost seems to do the perfect remake job, helped along with the reuse of some iconic song numbers. Yet we have a sense of unease because there is entirely too much focus on Don and too little on Vijay. And then, when we do see Vijay, he seems too perfectly fit and trained for the the masquerade, giving us little hints all along (the Looney Tunes viewing, the hesitation in recognizing Deepu, the almost gleeful announcement about having regained his memory of all the bad deeds he did as Don) that we keep missing, but that keep increasing our sense of unease. The biggest whammy is almost at the end, and leaves us and Roma gasping at the audacity of the entire scheme thought up by Don. The film turns out to be a thriller and we were expecting a straight actioner, just like its predecessor! In the first one, we are completely in on the masquerade, comfortably carried along. In the successor, we think we know, yet we do not quite like this Vijay, he is too menacing, almost too predatory with the ladies, thus we feel something is amiss all along! And it is only at the very end that we realize what a con was played on us, and on poor Roma. The twists and turns in the tale propel the otherwise somewhat laid-back film along to a thrilling climax.<br />
<img alt="" class="alignnone" height="435" src="http://periscopedepth.files.wordpress.com/2009/12/shutter_island_movie_poster2.jpg" title="SI" width="300" /><br />
In the recent Shutter Island we start out with something that should have made us so uneasy - why did the cabin on the boat have handcuffs and manacles dangling from the roof? But it is almost like a shadow seen from the corner of the eye, registered and yet not fully recorded by the mind. The Escher like mind-bending staircases, the surreal WWII recollections - all these increase the sense of unease and tell us all is not as we see it. Yet the film is moved forward as a thrilling quest for a murderer among the criminally insane. It is only at the end that we discover the truth behind Marshall Teddy Daniels and only at the very end to we know what the Marshall has discovered about himself!<br />
<img alt="" class="alignnone" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTpkzedFo2KA26GDiWv_g8WHALLgsxYfqnVAvqxQB7WDX1wbPveNP3OyQojpA2vrit6LEQNlLqC-EwOpFvME_wWro8_KrL8s4stfwAQIBe_77Z0KfwEvz7-H4Nvd1CwWiMLgrljLfJ9gOf/s1600/The+Sixth+Sense.jpg" title="SS" width="300" /><br />
In the Sixth Sense, another excellent mystery/thriller, we should register, but do not, though not for lack of telling, that Dr. Malcolm Crowe (Bruce Willis), for some strange reason can or does only communicate with the child Cole (Haley Joel-Osmont). <b>Read more <a a="" bitly="BITLY_PROCESSED" href="http://pakhipakhi.wordpress.com/2010/05/08/how-to-tell-if-it-is-a-great-thriller-that-certain-sense-of-unease/">HERE</a></b>Pardesinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4410627979734163478.post-26681812464967029282010-05-06T22:47:00.000-07:002010-05-06T23:07:46.150-07:00Laughing gas that makes you weep - Housefull!<img alt="" class="alignnone" height="351" src="http://www.bollynewz.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/04/deepika-padukone-1.jpg" title="Deepika" width="250" /><br />
Sajid Khan's career as a TV anchor, who had pungent criticisms of hamming and copying in Hindi films, is far behind him! These days he is the director of super-hit films, and man who scorns critics and calls the viewers the only critics he cares for. After an unacknowledged, albeit highly successful, down-market and low brow rip-off of Three Men and a Baby (is that even possible?), Sajid returns with his self-avowed biggest film of the year in Housefull! This time he stays away from any accusations of plagiarism by copying scenes, plot-lines, dialogs, from so many films that your head is in a whirl trying to keep them all duly accounted for. At some point you throw your hands up and simply stop counting. But honestly, what can one expect, when the producer (Sajid Nadiadwala) goes on the debut show being hosted by a leading box office analyst, and tells him his film is unique and ground breaking because while there have been tales with mixups with two wives in the past, they have now introduced a unique element, a third wife!!!!! It reminded me of how comic genius plays with stuff like that - there was the famous SEVEN minute abs sequence in Something About Mary!! Have a look:<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/vntyaIWlbmQ&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/vntyaIWlbmQ&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
However, this was said with a completely straight face and in all seriousness by Mr. Nadiadwala, as he and Mr. Nahata went on a mutually congratulatory spree. <br />
<br />
So there we have it - it is a unique tale of a man who is a LOSER, a panauti (and we are never allowed to forget this). He is employed by a casino to sweep in and sweep out the good luck of the customers! He proposes to a girl (Malaika Arora in a strangely dentured look) and is rejected soundly, marries the casino owner's daughter (a strangely and shapelessly buxom Jiah Khan), breaks up with her, tries to drown himself, is saved by an Amazon of a girl (Deepika Padukone), who falls in love with him, has to pretend to be married to a third girl (Lara Dutta), and so on and so forth. <br />
<br />
Along the way we have innumerable copied scenes - the wrecking of an apartment by a wayward vacuum cleaner (a la Mr. Bean), the tiger in the house (Hangover), the slapping monkey (Night at the Museum), the lie detector tests (Meet the Parents), wife swapping (last seen in All The Best), near identical beach and ocean vistas in romance (Bacha Ae Haseeno), the gay jokes (Kal Ho Naa Ho), Lilette Dubey as the aging sex-starved woman (Kal ho Naa Ho), and there is even a random baby thrown into the mix (Heyy Babyy?)!!! There are the obligatory songs that sounded quite good by themselves, but alas do not get any justice in the film. <br />
<br />
Is there anything unique in tthis product? Yes, there are several poor jokes, and several jokes in really poor taste. Those can be attributed to Sajid Khan, unless he sees films I have not been able to catch. The incessant slapping between the leads and Boman does not start out funny, and degenerates into the realm of distasteful after about 6 repeats. Buckingham Palace is turned into Uckingham Palace - when Santa is told by Banta to Be SILENT! Phone in Tub becomes Phone TUBBLE, and a black baby is a piece of "Dambar" (Tar). Sajid's respect for his audience's IQ is quite evident when the baby (a ploy to get Boman Irani from India to London) is speedily removed from the scene and no one cares any more. And it really dawns on us that this man is either an idiot or thinks we are, when coolant is replaced by laughing gas and causes an entire hall to burst into uncontrollable laughter for 15 minutes. Coolant? Is that not supposed to go into some cooling coils in an AC unit? Unless Sajid was thinking gas chamber, and by the time this episode rolls around, that option does not seem so bad.<br />
<br />
Read more <a a="" bitly="BITLY_PROCESSED" href="http://pakhipakhi.wordpress.com/2010/05/06/laughing-gas-that-makes-you-weep-housefull/">HERE</a>Pardesinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4410627979734163478.post-74243295462152272802010-05-04T10:27:00.000-07:002010-05-04T10:32:31.368-07:00Housefull – How big a loser are you?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.imagine18.com/wp-content/uploads/housefull-4e.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 512px; height: 384px;" src="http://www.imagine18.com/wp-content/uploads/housefull-4e.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Akshay Kumar, depressed with his life, swims for a very long time, until he gets tired and tries to commit suicide by drowning himself. Deepika Padukone, just like Clint Eastwood in Spaghetti Western films, comes out of nowhere, lifts him up and carries him towards the shore that is some miles away. And we call Akshay Kumar a Khiladi!!!!<br /><br />The film starts with the most hilarious disclaimer of the decade. Sajid Khan mentions the names of 5 very important directors in Bollywood who have influenced him to direct films. And that includes Hrishikesh Mukherjee. Heyy babyy and Hrishikesh Mukherjee? HouseFull and Hrishikesh Mukherjee? Ohhhh, that was joke as the film is supposed to be a comedy. Such is the humor in the film that you yourself would need to find out the humorous moments if you want to laugh as the film hardly is humorous.<br /><br />This is hardly an Akshay Kumar kind of comedy. If you want to watch Akshay Kumar kind of comedy, I think you are better off watching Jaane Kahaan Se Aayi Hai. He manages to make you laugh more in his two and half minutes special appearance than this two and half hours long film. Being a fan of his comic timings and his work in films like Mr. and Mrs Khiladi, Garam Masala, Bhool Bhulaiya, this one surely is a disappointment. The film mainly belongs to the ‘Timepass’ genre films which Sajid or Farah makes. While Farah tries to spoof The Matrix, Karz, Madhumati, Youtube videos in her films and manages to get some laughs, Sajid Khan straightaway copies them with no intention of even spoofing if he can’t get original. He plays the game of wife swapping in the film, something we just saw 6 months ago in All The Best. The game is not even half as funny in Housefull as in All The Best.<br /><br />Five years ago, filmmakers in India started to feel that a film that does not have the King Khan has to have an item song to make it a hit. The latest trend in ‘Timepass-Filmmaking’ says a film has to have some gay humor in it. Housefull tries having both of them. And since it is a Sajid Khan film, he does not even try putting in efforts in the item song. Instead he simply took up an old Bollywood hit number and remixed it. Though it is wonderfully sung song by Mika, IMO, who manages to keep the craziness alive in the song, the video is very disappointing, thanks to the Arjun Rampal. For most of the film Arjun Rampal plays an angry man with one expression on his face, and for once he was asked to enjoy and he ends up ruining a song, How can one fail to get the right expressions in that song? It should have come out naturally given that song is so crazy. The video really missed the craziness I was expecting it to have.<br /><br />Read more from <a href="http://virtuallyreel.wordpress.com/2010/05/04/housefull-%E2%80%93-how-big-a-loser-are-you/">HERE</a>Caulfieldnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4410627979734163478.post-83216267919088195542010-04-24T19:16:00.000-07:002010-04-25T10:56:07.695-07:00Pancham Unmixed - a preview!<a bitly="BITLY_PROCESSED" href="http://njisacf.files.wordpress.com/2008/08/image002.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://njisacf.files.wordpress.com/2008/08/image002.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 266px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
<br />
Yes, it is a preview of a review I am about to write. But I thought I would share this clip with you so you could walk, jog, run, to the nearest shop and BUY this DVD package. It is truly memorable, an excellent inside look at the genius of a man who changed the game forever!<br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/cCYZJ_LMQMo&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/cCYZJ_LMQMo&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object>Pardesinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4410627979734163478.post-38571507442645083362010-04-24T17:48:00.000-07:002010-04-25T11:04:58.826-07:00All those W(AK)OW moments – Asha Bhosle in concert!<a bitly="BITLY_PROCESSED" href="http://www.masalablitz.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/asha_bosle.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.masalablitz.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/asha_bosle.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 360px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 300px;" /></a><br />
<br />
On the spur of the moment I made the decision to try my luck at the Flint Center where Asha Bhosle was supposed to be singing, along with Sudesh Bhosle. We rushed madly through traffic, arrived late, were told only cash could be used for ticket purchase and the ATM was out of money please! After everyone turned their wallets and pockets inside out we had enough money to get middling good seats, and walked in to see Asha ji on stage, spotlighted, in a baby blue bejewelled saree, talking of how RD Burman asked her to sing a song, which she was unsure of ever being able to do. It was for a Nasir Hussain film, and a bet was on between Nasir and RD about whether Asha or Rafi would do a better job! RD won and the song was a lusciously mad number Aaja Aaja Main Hoon Pyaar Tera with the signature hyperventilation in the mukhda. She started to sing and the clapping and dancing in the seats and out of the seats began! Magic was ON stage and I was viewing it. (Thankfully NO male accompaniment, just pure Asha magic!!). We were told to not do any video photography - so to invoke the magic of Aaja Aaja, I post here the original version from Teesri Manzil:<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/uSYQd2Q1N7I&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/uSYQd2Q1N7I&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
The concert was an amazing blend of anecdotes, outstanding music from talented and very competent musicians, some male accompaniment from Sudesh Bhosle (more on that towards the end), and Asha Asha Asha in full charismatic and flamboyant mode. She was magical, had the range, the power and that indefinable "sexiness" that made her THE voice of all the sexiest songs in the 60s and 70s! <br />
<br />
The acoustics at the Flint Center did full justice to the magic of her vocals. But this was no staid behind the podium singer that her sister is known to be, that is when she is not wagging her finger at you in annoyance if you so much as stir from your seat! Asha was a dynamo, constantly in motion, constantly swaying, and moving to the music, and sometimes breaking into dance steps that flashed her diamond wristcuffs with dangling strings of glitter! She quipped - now that I am 76 years old, and neither in heaven nor on earth, but somewhere in between, let me dance if I want to, who cares!!! And dance she did, evoking the magic of Helen and Bindu and countless other cabaret dancers of the movies! Age sucks all of us into its maw, but I have to say that that day watching Asha ji dance as she sang was a sublime experience, nothing short of magical! <br />
<br />
She sang most of her iconic songs, to cheers and claps and sing-alongs and encores! She mentioned that her audience included those who had bunked school and college to see her films (and were now in their 40s and 50s) and those who simply had listened much much later! That described the demographic at the concert rather well. The songs included Chura Liya Hai, Ek Main Aur Ek Tu, and the first half ended with O Haseena Zulfon Wali - sung to a crowd that was mostly on its feet in nostalgia and ecstasy!<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/zwN9Mgq0aSc&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/zwN9Mgq0aSc&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
After a break Asha ji came back, this time in a stark black Sari, glittering in the spotlights! She recounted how she and Kishore Da prepared for singing Jaane Jaan, she gleeful as she had sung it before in Bangla, he glum and struggling with the notes! Then there was Dum Maro Dum, and the classic WAKOW song. Sudesh Bhosle displayed his excelle mimicry talents by singing all the male voices in Hum Kisi se Kum Nahin - RD Burman, Rafi and Kishore, and then Asha ji chimed in and danced away in the number. The concert rightfully closed with Piya Tu Ab to Aaja from Caravan. <br />
<br />
Trolling Youtube I did find one video from this same concert in Phoenix, a short clip, but it give a flavor of the concert, the magic, the moments.<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Jg6kyg_zBmw&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Jg6kyg_zBmw&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
<br />
Read more here<a a="" bitly="BITLY_PROCESSED" href="http://pakhipakhi.wordpress.com/2010/04/24/all-those-wakow-moments-asha-bhosle-in-concert/">HERE</a>Pardesinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4410627979734163478.post-69639480627827518412010-04-22T20:19:00.000-07:002010-04-23T11:00:51.125-07:00A thing of beauty is a joy forever!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a bitly="BITLY_PROCESSED" href="http://cnyskeptics.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/moon_over_manhattan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://cnyskeptics.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/moon_over_manhattan.jpg" width="205" /></a></div><br />
Continuing with the tradition of a top ten post....the word of the week is "Chand"! Since eons, the beauty of the moon has been incomparable except perhaps with that of a woman's ! It is also a symbol of romantic mood and bollywood songs have fully exploited this epitome of beauty to the hilt! Here are my top dozen picks for the songs with the word "chand" :<br />
<br />
1. A true masterpiece from Rafi.... Images of Waheeda’s exquisite beauty and a besotted Guru Dutt singing praises of her on their wedding night remain etched in cinema lovers’ memories forever!<br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/QMZjk5DblOE&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/QMZjk5DblOE&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
2. Another immortal song! A perfect combination of enchanting music, superbly sung by Rafi and Lata, and of course the timeless romance of Meena Kumari and Raaj Kumar!<br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/oCiMjNWfHw8&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/oCiMjNWfHw8&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
3. A quintessential Dev Anand song- those swinging arms and yearning-for-your-love lyrics! Rafi’s magical voice elevated the song to another level.<br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/XeCh08II2Cc&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/XeCh08II2Cc&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
4. Soft and melodious...one of Sachin Dev Burman's best compositions! Of course the ethereal beauty of Madhubala mesmerises me every time I see her onscreen!<br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/vBnJCyx3nxk&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/vBnJCyx3nxk&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
5. Shammi Kapoor’s amazingly energetic dance, Sharmila’s innocent charm, OP Nayyar’s musical genius, Rafi’s awesome voice and Kashmir’s heavenly beauty all combine together to create magic onscreen in this electrifying number!<br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/txv7RCe8DXM&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/txv7RCe8DXM&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
6. Another classic song from the superb team of Kalyanji-Anandji and Mukesh! <br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/eOx5HUTeyv8&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/eOx5HUTeyv8&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
7. This song from the movie Hum kisi se kum nahin became a rage with the youngsters. Pancham Da and Rafi combination again creates magic...awesome lyrics by Majrooh!<br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/spvqBMwnFrk&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/spvqBMwnFrk&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
8. A brilliant romantic number beautifully rendered by Kishore Kumar….A guitarist’s delight….this one is a personal favorite of mine!<br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/irHW4udsmTo&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/irHW4udsmTo&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
9. For all the SRK and Madz fans...this one’s for you! <br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ch78R2kf6kM&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ch78R2kf6kM&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
10. A dazzling duet by Udit Narayan and Alk Yagnik…..this album is clearly Ismail Darbar’s best work till date.<br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Pc5-SWxHJWk&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Pc5-SWxHJWk&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
11. The poetic lyrics sung in Shaan’s sweet voice resulted in this chartbuster number. Highlight of the song-its whistling melody!<br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/6XZDuN2OOtA&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/6XZDuN2OOtA&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
12. This one made the cut purely due to Hrithik :-) Roshan’s music and Kumar Sanu’s voice didnt really amount to anything spectacular, but as i said earlier, this is for Hrithik fans!<br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/_xRtP_OUnWQ&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/_xRtP_OUnWQ&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
Enjoy...and post your faves!!Minnienoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4410627979734163478.post-39251113395306918372010-04-12T21:13:00.000-07:002010-04-12T22:49:39.369-07:00Your favorite ITEM songs!<a bitly="BITLY_PROCESSED" href="http://im.in.com/connect/images/profile/b_profile2/Helen_%28actress%29_300.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://im.in.com/connect/images/profile/b_profile2/Helen_%28actress%29_300.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 360px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 300px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
First off - what exactly does Item song mean? People think it means a song that is otherwise not integrated into the story, it is just an isolated item. BUT that is NOT the case. Item is a bastardization of the term Atom - the girl dancing was supposed to be an Atom Bomb - hence ITEM song. The songs evolved from cabaret numbers where the dancing lady was usually a vamp or side character, and turned into full fledged interludes usually not relevant to the film. I LOVE ITEM SONGS! So it is hard to pick my top 10 favorites but I will try. Here goes:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
1. <b>Madhuri - Choli ke Peeche kya hai! There is a reason why Rahman chose this one to pay tribute to in Ringa Ringa from Slumdog Millionaire. The decadent lyrics and voice matched by an outstanding performance from the Dhak Dhak girl.</b><br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/_X4_YZJWWO4&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/_X4_YZJWWO4&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
2. <b>How can one forget Helen? One of my favorite Helen numbers is Baithe Hain Kya uske paas! Helen in a red rooster dress on the bar, Anju Mahendru on the floor - outstanding!</b><br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/L0JwfiAoYxU&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/L0JwfiAoYxU&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
3. <b>Bachchan parivar ka tarana - Kajrare - yes, it is fantastic! The trio have a wonderful chemistry, and Aish looks stunning!</b><br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/plUxChXs3w8&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/plUxChXs3w8&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
4. <b>Beedi - the composition is fantastic and Bipasha stuns with her sultry dance moves, ably assisted by the guys cutting loose!</b><br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/cIMptEPJ95U&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/cIMptEPJ95U&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
5. <b>Next up is Helen again - O Haseena Zulfon Waali - ICONIC song and dance, not to be missed, the fact that it has Shammi Kapoor is an added bonus!</b><br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/zwN9Mgq0aSc&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/zwN9Mgq0aSc&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
6. <b>Heck I might as well get my Helen numbers out of the way - MONICAAAAAA O my darling! Remixed by the Kronos Quartet, loved by one and all, RD Buramn and Asha magic, and Helen on screen!</b><br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/dX-gSSLmxUU&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/dX-gSSLmxUU&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
7. <b>Crazy Bhojpuri and Hinglish - Dil Dance Maare from Tashan (Akshjay, Saif and Kareena in blond wigs). An Item song out of nowhere, and set nowhere, my absolute favorite!</b><br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ASLrFTjzrUw&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ASLrFTjzrUw&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
8. <b>Ishq Kameena - Aishwarya as the dream girl, SRK as the drifter, magical number!</b><br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/6x6d6qgMD1I&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/6x6d6qgMD1I&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
9. <b>Dhoom Machaale - people dislike Esha Deol, for me she reflects some of her mother's charm, and ROCKS here with Uday Chopra!</b><br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/7bs1i2CAlt0&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/7bs1i2CAlt0&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
10. <b>Mera Naam Hai Shabnam - pyar se log mujhe shabbo kehte hain!! Bindu gyrates to this number from Kati Patang.</b><br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/OqZV5wKs5ik&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/OqZV5wKs5ik&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
POST YOUR FAVORITES! Try to save the mujra type numbers for a post coming up soon!Pardesinoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4410627979734163478.post-62406892890922351462010-04-07T09:58:00.000-07:002010-04-07T10:10:43.680-07:00The Adventures of Prince Achmed<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.cinemagora.co.uk/images/films/91/5091-b-the-adventures-of-prince-achmed.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://www.cinemagora.co.uk/images/films/91/5091-b-the-adventures-of-prince-achmed.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Eleven years before Walt Disney came up with its first animated feature film, The Adventures of Prince Achmed was made. The Adventures of Prince Achmed isn’t the first animated feature film made, but it is the oldest surviving animated film. Two other films, The Apostle and Without a Trace by Quirino Cristiani are considered to be lost.<br /><br />The film uses Silhouette animation technique where the characters and other things appear dark while the background is light in color. The director of the film explains about how she animated her film using this Silhouette technique –<br /><br />“…The technique of this type of film is very simple. As with cartoon drawings, the silhouette films are photographed movement by movement. But instead of using drawings, silhouette marionettes are used. These marionettes are cut out of black cardboard and thin lead, every limb being cut separately and joined with wire hinges. A study of natural movement is very important, so that the little figures appear to move just as men and women and animals do. But this is not a technical problem. The backgrounds for the characters are cut out with scissors as well, and designed to give a unified style to the whole picture. They are cut from layers of transparent paper.”<br /><br /><div style="text-align: right;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; ">- Lotte Reiniger,Sight & Sound (1936).</span></div><div style="text-align: right;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; "><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; "><img src="http://virtuallyreel.files.wordpress.com/2010/04/pa.jpg?w=300&h=222" /></span></div><br />The Adventures of Prince Achmed isn’t all about the effort put behind the animation and the technicalities. The story of the film is based upon the characters taken from different stories from the collection 1001 Arabian Nights and made into a fascinating tale on how Prince Achmed wins Princess Pari Banau from the evil African magician.<br /><br />The film was full of imagination both in terms of story as well as the technique behind animation. Taking in different characters from different stories of Arabian Nights and making a good supernatural story with romance in it was a real treat. The film took 3 years to complete because of the animation technique, which required lots of effort to make the simple photographs of cardboard cutouts to appear in motion. The scenes are very much detailed and every movement is shown flawlessly and with lot of clarity. It was a lot more difficult to make the animation in those pre-computer days compared to today where we mostly make the animation digitally (I don’t mean digital animation is easy). It involved taking pictures of every frame of every movement a character or object is making and juxtapose them to make it appear in motion. Given that there are normally 25 frames a second, it means it required 25 different still photographs for every second of the film and putting them together with every photo differing very slightly from the previous one.<br /><br />Read more from <a href="http://virtuallyreel.wordpress.com/2010/04/07/the-adventures-of-prince-achmed/">HERE</a>Caulfieldnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4410627979734163478.post-14351982384553916272010-04-03T16:20:00.000-07:002010-04-03T01:16:26.910-07:00Life before and after MNIK<b><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></b><br />
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;">BEFORE THE EVENT</span></b></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Year 2006 - I convinced my wife that we had to watch KANK, and cannot MISS it. So she obliged, and i have regretted ever since the mistake i made :) Bottomline - I was told in future no more KJo movie watching. PERIOD. I was not worried at that time, since i never knew what Karan had in store... <br />
<br />
Year 2009 - Kadz my idol was in my town for MNIK shoot. Since i had my priorities right, managed to go and watch the shoot, at just the cost of a work day. Now i made a vow that i will watch MNIK no matter what.</span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a bitly="BITLY_PROCESSED" href="http://images.ientrymail.com/developerfox/2008/08/14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://images.ientrymail.com/developerfox/2008/08/14.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
Late 2009 - MNIK's release date is out.. “Feb 12th 2010”. I mark it up on the calendar and start plotting to watch it, after 18 months of drought of movie watching in theatres. Then the light goes off in my head. Why not take the spouse for MNIK on Feb 14th, as a Valentine's day surprise... <br />
<br />
Feb 12th 2010 - D-Day.. Movie gets released, and it gets a mixed review, and even good friends who are SRK fans give it a lukewarm review. So now I am in a state of PANIC.. I don’t want to screw up my Valentine surprise, and be in the dog house for the rest of the year.. So changed the plans, and moved out MNIK watching for a later date.. </span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">THE MOVIE - MNIK - Nomadic Journey from San Francisco to Sacramento</span></b></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a bitly="BITLY_PROCESSED" href="http://www.glamsham.com/movies/scoops/10/jan/my-name-is-khan-shahrukh-khan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://www.glamsham.com/movies/scoops/10/jan/my-name-is-khan-shahrukh-khan.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Here are my scattered thoughts about the movie:<br />
<br />
One rarely hears SRK talking about doing research for his character, and going to town with that. For MNIK he did both, and i think the disciplined approach to the role shows in the movie. He has delivered a very good performance as Rizwan with lot of consistency through out the movie. I would rate this is as his best performance to date. <br />
(Individual Score = 4.5)<br />
<br />
Kajol as Mandira has ably supported SRK, but that’s just about it. For a Kadz fan in me, it was a disappointment. She has acted as though she walked off from K3G sets. Her mannerisms and interaction with her son in the movie is so K3Gish. Her Screams were very jarring. OFC she has excelled in emotional scenes.<br />
(Individual Score = 3.0)<br />
<br />
Technically the movie is of a high calibre. Especially, Ravi Chandran has done a marvelous job of capturing the city by the Bay, in all its magnificent splendor. Editing is good within the context of lack of screenplay (more about it later). Background score is passable. <br />
(Individual Score = 4.0)<br />
<br />
Post K3G, Karan has been trying to move towards serious contemporary cinema and his sincerity shows in MNIK. He clearly lacks touch and vision and it shows in the second half. Second half is very poorly executed.<br />
(Individual Score = 2.0)<br />
<br />
Rizwan who could “repair anything” probably could not repair the script. Shibani has continued her downward spiral as a script writer with MNIK. <br />
(Individual Score = 1.5)<br />
<br />
Overall the movie did not live up to my lowered expectations. First half of the movie was like driving through the Mojave desert. Flat and emotionless, even though there were few good moments and chemistry between SRK & Kajol was exceptional, as usual.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a bitly="BITLY_PROCESSED" href="http://rmltman.files.wordpress.com/2008/05/dscn2704.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://rmltman.files.wordpress.com/2008/05/dscn2704.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Second half of the movie was like driving DOWN the CROOKED street (in SF). The journey part of the movie is its biggest letdown. The timeline of the journey has been unnecessarily extended to include most recent political events in US, and hurricane episode just did not fit in.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a bitly="BITLY_PROCESSED" href="http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f146/cjmyers009/LombardStreet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f146/cjmyers009/LombardStreet.jpg" width="210" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
<br />
In short, it is a movie of many missed opportunities. I feel for SRK who has delivered an exceptional performance only to be let down by other aspects of the movie.<br />
<br />
<b>Rating: 3 STARS (4.5 + 3 + 4 + 2 + 1.5 = 15/25) </b></span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">AFTER THE EVENT</span></b></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">As Rizwan Khan starts to shake his hands with the POTUS and the end credit starts to roll, my mind starts going into over drive. Usually, the walk from the theatre to the car is the toughest 5 min walk of life, if the movie is NOT to the Spouse's liking. More so if i am the ONE who chose the movie.<br />
<br />
Then as we are about to walk out of the unreal world, light bulb goes again (trust me, it does not happen too often) in my head. I immediately act upon it. Placed a call to the Baby sitter who was taking care of the Lil one...and was hoping that she will stay on the line till we reach home... Luck was on my side I guess, as i was talking, the better half took over the phone to talk.. and i got home before the end of conversation. For the rest of the day, it was all about Lil one at home, and thus i thought i had dodged the 'bullet'.<br />
<br />
Now i had to do something to avoid any reference to MNIK... Worked out a plan, and told the better half.. "I have a surprise" Response - "Oh yeah". Me – “Yes i will take you to a place and show you something which you never seen before, just like Rizwan did :)”.. "Ok. Will wait" is the response.<br />
<br />
One fine afternoon took the family to workplace and then took the better half to the open patio on the 25th floor.. and asked her "Had you seen this before ?" showing the overview of the bay :-)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a bitly="BITLY_PROCESSED" href="http://www.sanfranciscoshop.com/images/SF-Overview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="http://www.sanfranciscoshop.com/images/SF-Overview.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
<br />
It worked, and here i am narrating my life story.</span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>DISCLAIMER: All the characters and incidents in BEFORE and AFTER THE EVENT are fictitious and any resemblance to any real people and real incidents are intentional.</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b><br />
</b></span>The Illusionistnoreply@blogger.com88tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4410627979734163478.post-6888225602582944562010-04-02T14:40:00.000-07:002010-04-03T01:18:40.139-07:00Favorite Theme Songs- The eyes have it!<a bitly="BITLY_PROCESSED" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1erbUVTl9cQQ2sPizHy661m-vSaHdJRNQe7WnxWKJAGrRo0EzCDpLbkLI4n_i8BYWkaCLAyj9_pFTzKlskktBzrYq0UPsLY4fgutAmZ7Cw8fQcRQn_QpfYD1GAe8S3PIxe5bya0xyb3g/s1600/eyes+images.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455674406334326386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1erbUVTl9cQQ2sPizHy661m-vSaHdJRNQe7WnxWKJAGrRo0EzCDpLbkLI4n_i8BYWkaCLAyj9_pFTzKlskktBzrYq0UPsLY4fgutAmZ7Cw8fQcRQn_QpfYD1GAe8S3PIxe5bya0xyb3g/s320/eyes+images.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 93px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 124px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
As some of us were discussing on KP, it would be a great idea to continue the tradition of posting theme songs regularly at RL. We had a great beginning with Pardesi's brilliant post of her favorite Road songs and everyone pitched in with their personal favorites! While I was looking for a theme, it struck me that numerous hindi songs have been written to describe the beauty of eyes....so chose this week's word- Aankhein! Join in the fun and let's see who can come up with how many songs! <br />
<br />
Here are my top ten picks:<br />
<br />
1. A masterpiece! This gem from the film Khamoshi simply blows me away everytime I listen to it. Gulzar’s incredible lyrics and use of complex metaphors impart the most profound meaning to this song….lyrical poetry at its best!<br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/0XVRP5EUJck&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/0XVRP5EUJck&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
2. This classic song from C.I.D. sung with great gusto by Mohd. Rafi and Geeta Dutt transcends time and fashion. Its popularity can be gauged by the fact that it has almost become an idiom now while conveying subtle hints in real life situations!<br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/--sA1FZ7slY&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/--sA1FZ7slY&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
3. A lilting soulful melody sung beautifully by KK and picturised on a divine looking Deepika and of course Shahrukh…need I even say more? A personal favorite of mine!<br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="600"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/d0jIbm_Xv1E&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/d0jIbm_Xv1E&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="600" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
4. A soft and melodious number sung beautifully by Kavita Krishnamurthy and Kumar Sanu. An amazing reel and real life chemistry between Salman and Aishwarya took this playful romantic song to another level. <br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="600"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/90uRgwR8hro&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/90uRgwR8hro&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="600" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
5. This magical number sung by Asha Bhonsle from the movie Umrao Jaan is the stuff classics are made of! Rekha’s mesmerizing kathak as the famous courtesan only adds to the beauty of this gorgeous ghazal.<br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/WpuyubZqD8s&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/WpuyubZqD8s&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
6. An awesome team came together to compose this song….music by RD Burman, lyrics by Gulzar and sung by Kishore Kumar and Lata Mangeshkar. Add sultry Rekha to this heady mix and you get near-perfection!<br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/3bZ45auFtAU&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/3bZ45auFtAU&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
7. Pyaasa remains a masterpiece of Indian cinema and all songs of the movie are timeless classics. This peppy number sung by Rafi and Geeta Dutt was made immortal by the legendary Guru Dutt and Mala Sinha. An all time favorite of mine!<br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/8UkEcMxjGO8&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/8UkEcMxjGO8&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
8. Incredible poetry! This song has romance, emotions, philosophy and melancholy all rolled in one. The combination of Kishore Kumar and Rajesh Khanna was lethal….I doubt there will be a woman on this planet who wouldn’t melt listening to those words! <br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/pMa6BeIUVm0&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/pMa6BeIUVm0&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
9. A soulful song capturing the beauty and innocence of a youthful romance! Ravindra Jain’s melodious music combined with Hemlata’s enchanting voice make this song very touching.<br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/KqpIIaCJggY&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/KqpIIaCJggY&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
10. One of Madan Mohan’s great compositions! A handsome Sunil Dutt sings this soft romantic number to woo Asha Parekh making it unforgettable for all music lovers.<br />
<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/cA7_T3wA0x8&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/cA7_T3wA0x8&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
Enjoy!Minnienoreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4410627979734163478.post-48127755576497614212010-04-01T22:48:00.000-07:002010-04-06T08:27:25.192-07:00Ghoda-gadi ka chakkar! Victoria 203<img alt="" src="http://www.thehotspotonline.com/eyecandy/70s2/116b.JPG" title="203" class="alignnone" width="291" height="400" /><br /><br />I finally managed to watch Victoria no. 203 (1972), a rip-roaring comic crime caper. The roots of so many films of modern times could be traced back to this gem. It began with a museum display of diamonds, a thief who knows the sewage system runs under the museum, and he will exit from a manhole a block away after stealing the diamonds! Dhoom 2 anyone? The diamonds are stolen but have to be stashed away in a hurry as a double cross scheme goes awry. The rocks find their way into a Victoria (yes, the ghoda-gadi) standing nearby as the thief is stabbed. After this, the story rapidly gets layer upon layer of intrigue that involves a railway station locker, a scrap of paper with the number of the Victoria, and a key hidden under a toupee! There is a chocolate boy hero (Navin Nischol) who mostly just dallies with various girls while he waits for the real thing. There is a leading lady (Saira Banu) with so much oomph then no item girl is needed in the film. In fact the leading lady dons a towel after a rain drenching, while the item girl of the time (Helen) merely walks by in a scene, fully dressed! But the real fun starts when Raja (Ashok Kumar) and Rana (Pran), two petty thieves come out of jail, are “gifted” a car they think they are stealing, and chance upon the toupeed gentleman, now dead, and the KEY! The duo are in fine form as they rampage through Mumbai looking for the taala to go with the chabhi! The 60+ year-old Ashok Kumar mostly skirt chases women of all shapes, sizes and ages (Sexy Sam of the 70s!), and drinks desi tharra like a fish imbibes water. The villainous villain Anwar Hussain has numerous henchman, who fall like flies as they try to double cross him at every turn. In the end there is a climax in a warehouse with ropes and barrels and a coal fire pit, and tricks with fake diamonds and real diamonds! Mr. Santoshi was taking careful notes at this point in the film – watch this and then Andaz Apna Apna to see what inspired the climax of that one!<br /><br />The story and screenplay are attributed to KA Narayan. Upon checking his filmography you find story credits for Jewel Thief, Johnny Mera Naam. Victoria no. 203 certainly matches those others in the quality of the story and screenplay. The plot never sags at any point, and the twists and turns in the story keep coming at a fast pace. The comic genius of Ashok Kumar and Pran carries the entire film. There is a point in the climax when Ashok Kumar asks for a dying wish – can he pray? And then queries the baddies “Bhai Sahab Farrukhabad kis taraf hai?” Pran reacts in horror and says “Mathura, Raja, Mathura”. Sheer genius!<br /><br /><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/nhJymZ7zB3Y&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/nhJymZ7zB3Y&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br />Read more <a href="http://pakhipakhi.wordpress.com/2010/04/01/ghoda-gadi-ka-chakkar-victoria-203/">HERE</a>Pardesinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4410627979734163478.post-20407636416045771742010-03-27T00:12:00.000-07:002010-03-29T10:33:12.336-07:00Favorite ROAD songs from films!<a bitly="BITLY_PROCESSED" href="http://www.thereheis.com/nucleus3.22/media/gallery/20071114-melodyroad.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.thereheis.com/nucleus3.22/media/gallery/20071114-melodyroad.jpg" style="float: left; height: 300px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
The best road songs!<br />
<br />
You get in the car or get ready to board a plane and there is this flashback moment. You hurriedly search for just the right song to play on your iPOD as you travel! Here are some of my favorites:<br />
<br />
Pukarta chala hoon main (Mere Sanam)! Forget that Biswajit is just a footnote in Hindi film history now, this is THE quintessential road song, an avenue of tall trees (poplars?), the girls on bikes, the guy in an open jeep:<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/q3vE0ELvo8o&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/q3vE0ELvo8o&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
How about the guy walking on a road and trying his best to obstruct the way of a bevy of beauties in a car? Only Dev Anand could carry off this song, singing and walking in his signature loping walk with a big white plastic fish dangling on the line! And Tanuja was cute as a button – unforgettable in this film.<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/itV1mH930uE&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/itV1mH930uE&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
Next up are two phenomenal road songs with a similar graph – the girl is on a train and the guys on cars and there is ample romance and nok jhonk between the two. In Jab Pyaar Kise se Hota Hai we have Dev romancing Asha Parekh on the train. Rafi’s singing is divine and Shakar JaiKishen are unforgettable here:<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/9depTtY5Obs&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/9depTtY5Obs&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
No doubt this was the inspiration for Shakti Samanta and the SD Burman/RD Burman duo as they spun this most famous number between Rajesh Khanna and Sharmila Tagore in Aradhna:<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/vo1MykK4u8U&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/vo1MykK4u8U&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
Pride of place in train songs has to belong to Chaiyya Chaiyya! Not satisfied with dance and romance in a train or on the road, here the romance is near dead - “Duniya ki sabse choti prem kahani”, as the girl is gone! And the hero is on the rooftop of a train in an exuberant number as he details the qualities of love. Gulzaar, AR Rahman, and Farah Khan combined to make this Shahrukh Khan and Malaika Arora number one for the history books.<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/-_2gW3zwMMQ&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/-_2gW3zwMMQ&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
Then there is this unusual road song, part patriotic, part self-discovery, sung while driving a motorhome – again AR Rahman combines with Ashutosh Gowarikar and Javed Akhtar to bring this Shahrukh Khan and Makarand Deshpande song to us.<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/sxb5w7udUbY&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/sxb5w7udUbY&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
I want to end with a bicycle song – from Padosan! The one and only Saira Banu and her gang on sakhiyaan, singing while they take to the road on bicycles!<br />
<object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/szFxM9KBNMA&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/szFxM9KBNMA&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
Happy trails! List you favorites…..<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
See more in the comments section <a bitly="BITLY_PROCESSED" href="http://pakhipakhi.wordpress.com/2010/03/26/main-hoon-raasta-hai-woh-ho-ya-na-ho/">HERE</a>Pardesinoreply@blogger.com17