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Raavan earns Rs.20 crore worldwide on opening day
4 million) worldwide on its opening day, its co-producer Reliance BIG Pictures said. All three versions - "Raavan" (Hindi), "Raavanan" (Tamil) and "Villain" (Telugu) - co-produced by Reliance BIG Pictures and Madras Talkies, was released simultaneously in about 2, 200 screens worldwide, said a press statement.
While the star cast of "Raavan" includes Abhishek Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai and southern star Vikram, "Raavanan" features Vikram, Aishwarya and Prithviraj. The Tamil version was dubbed in Telugu to reach a wider audience.
For foreign screens, the Hindi and Tamil versions have been released with English sub-titles. In the Hindi version, Aishwarya plays Ragini, a dance teacher who is married to a policeman, played by Vikram.
In the course of events, she is abducted by Beera (Abhishek) and held hostage at his jungle hideout. In the Tamil version, Vikram plays Beera.
The music for both the versions is by Oscar winner A.R.
Rahman and the cinematography has been done by Santosh Sivan
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Azim looks up to Salman, SRK and Aamir Khan
To make his character in "Qasam Se Qasam Se" appear realistic, Azim frequented call centre offices to absorb the finer nuances of the people working there. "It was quite a relevation for me as an actor.
I witnessed not only people's mannerisms but also the activities they indulge in during the break hour. Looking into the mirror, some guys would be busy ruffling their hair and taking care of their looks, while some would busy binging.
And there would others catching up with family and friends over their cell phones. This has helped shaped my character in the film.
" Azim feels that all our veteran actors were keen observers and would translate that on screen. "Whether it were the legendary actors like Dilip Kumar or the late Raj Kapoor or Dev Anand , they were schools in themselves.
I am a great fan of Salman Khan , Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan and look at them as a student who looks upon his guru. I am mastering the art of acting watching their films," he smiles
(less)Mahek Chahal reveals her beauty secret
My absolute must haves are browns, bronze and red shades of make-up, as they give my skin tone a very nice shine and suit me very well. I always carry these colors in my bag because I never know when I might show up at an event and feel completely under-dressed.
Also, any of these shades really adds that extra glow."
(less)Priyanka Chopra goes house hunting
She's been scouting for real estate in Juhu and Khar for a while now as she wants a bigger house. She also wants privacy, which one can't get in an apartment building.
Besides, it's been her dream to own a sea-facing bungalow." The source adds that PC wants a big garden that will include a space for her pets.
She also wants to accommodate a gym. When asked, Priyanka confirms that she's looking for a bungalow in the suburbs and adds, "I'm looking for a bigger place.
I'm very happy with the success of my last two films, so this is a good time for me to go house-hunting." Stars with sea- facing bungalows Akshay Kumar Rani Mukerji Shah Rukh Khan Rajesh Khanna Rekha Farhan Akhtar
(less)Riteish and Genelia Deshmukh marries again
While talking about the honeymoon plans, Riteish had told us, "We can't have a honeymoon this month. Our producer Kumar Taurani has strictly forbidden us to go anywhere till our film releases this month as he wants Genelia and me to promote the film in various cities.
David Dhawan's son Rohit gets married on February 10, so immediately after our wedding Genelia and I will have to rush to Goa for that again. After that, will be my brother Dheeraj's wedding during the end of the month to Honey Bhagnani .
I have to be there for all the pre-wedding arrangements so going for our honeymoon this month seems impossible now."
(less)I never thought I'd be a desirable woman: Sameera Reddy
"My name in the list means a lot to me. As as a young girl, I never thought even in my wildest dreams that I would become a desirable woman.
I yearned for a perfect body as I was ugly duckling in school. But now that I have entered films, I believe that beauty is hidden in the imperfections of people and it all depends on how you use them.
That's my definition of desirable and I am glad to have made it to the list," says Sameera. The actor is basking in the success of her last Tamil release opposite Madhavan and has Padma Shri Priyadarshan's Tezz to look forward to.
Sameera has now decided that she will do a mix of performance-oriented and glamorous characters on screen, something that Simran and Jyothika did in Kollywood. So is the report true that Sameera wants to become the next Simran and Jyothika? "You cannot become another person.
I had said that I look up to both Simran and Jyothika, who had a mixed bag of roles- performance-oriented and cute characters. Both had their own fan following .
They are my role models and I want to have a beautiful lineup of characters like them," says the actor
(less)Sherlyn Chopra likes being unconventional
Be it politics, cinema, sports, business or any other arena, women across the globe including India are in great form mentally, physically and consciously to undertake greater responsibilities and tougher challenges that are often encountered on paths less travelled." Sherlyn is also happy that she has gone from being just a pin-up girl to an entrepreneur.
Says she, "The rapid metamorphosis in my case would not have been possible had the mindsets of the majority of the people in the Hindi film industry continued to be goverened by prejudices. I look upto entrepreneurs who command respect and attention for daring to think out of the box and act accordingly.
They do not have a herd mentality. What they have is unadulterated creativity which is set on fire by courage.
" Naming films like " The Dirty Picture ", " Erin Brokovich ", " No One Killed Jessica "," The Black Swan " as cinema that has changed the way we think, Sherlyn says, "Unconventionality is no longer a taboo. It is being applauded and celebrated by both the classes and the masses.
The pulse of the youth is racing towards liberalisation. And I'm truly loving it.
" Asked why she decided to give us photographs that resembled those of the " Jism 2 " campaign, the actor quips, "I have pushed the envelope by choosing to cover my nakedness with nothing but pure consciousness."
(less)Kangana’s weird dressing at Fashion’s launch | Bollywood News and Gossip
Kangana Ranaut who left mouths wide open at her movie Fashion’s first look held at Cinemax. She was wearing something small in shining yellow and guess what she claims she has designed that dress herself.
Hold on… if you think this is the end then please wait, there’s more to come) She was also flaunting some red color false flowers and feathers on her made-up hair. Also a yellow color strap on her neck which resembled a dog collar.
If that wasn”t enough she also carried herself on shinning red heels and a matching red color bag. Thankfully Priyanka Chopra and Mugdha Godse too were present and were looking extremely stunning and beautiful.
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(less)Aishwarya attends Riteish, Genelia's reception
Aishwarya was briefly spotted and clicked when the Bachchans hosted media mogul Oprah Winfrey at their home during her first India visit. Later, she drove with Oprah, father-in-law Amitabh Bachchan and husband Abhishek to a party hosted by Parameshwar Godrej to welcome Oprah.
Do check back for pictures from the reception. Tweet
(less)Flash mob greets Imran at New York University
"I had a blast at NYU. Everyone was so enthusiastic, they put on a very polished, confident show, and the surprise flash mob at the end was perfectly executed.
My best wishes to all the students involved," Imran said in a statement. The students had been practising for the performance for over two weeks, ahead of Imran's visit to New York as part of the promotional tour.
"As the president of NYU Dillagi, a Bollywood dance team, I knew we had to have simpler steps that the general public would be able to do and we sent videos out to the public. I thought that the flash mob came out even better than expected since people kept joining the mob throughout the sequence and it definitely surprised those that did not know of it ahead of time," Mohit Chhatpar, coordinator of the flash mob, said.
"It was really fun to be doing a flash mob and having Imran among us was all the more fun. He was very sporting and interacted with the students.
We are excited about this movie as well and are glad he could come and be among us to talk about his movie," he added. The Dharma Productions' film, also starring Kareena Kapoor, is set to hit theatres Feb 10.
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(less)Mohit Suri to direct Aashiqui 2 with fresh faces
"It's been 20 years for that film. So, obviously now I will have to upgrade this story.
It will be the same realistic love story but with a modern theme," Suri told IANS. Aashiqui won critical accolades after its release at the time.
It also catapulted the careers of lead actors Rahul Roy and Anu Agarwal, who forayed into Bollywood with this film. Suri is also set to hunt for new faces for the sequel.
"I will cast fresh faces with a new boy and a new girl," said Mohit. While some are referring to Aashiqui 2 as a sequel, others are calling it a remake.
However, producer Mukesh Bhatt of Vishesh Films sets the record straight. "It is neither a sequel nor a remake.
It can be said as the musical series of Aashiqui ..
.a new generation is making this film," he said.
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(less)Similar Results
Bollywood movies going the 3-Dimensional way
The latest is that Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar, producer and director of Don 2 , are keen to take their sequel of the Shah Rukh starrer to the new level. And apart from dubbing in Tamil and Telugu, Don 2 will also be released in 3D in the two south-Indian languages, besides Hindi, on December 23.
"Looking at the demand for the brand Don , we decided on the 3D format. We first did a few 3D conversion tests on the earlier Don and the outcome was very good," enthuses Ritesh, adding that while shooting the sequel, the 3D version was always at the back of Farhan's mind.
The producer further continues, "Since Farhan felt that the new format would make the Don experience even more memorable and exciting, we decided to go ahead with the 3D format. I was in Los Angeles recently and saw some 3D conversion tests and was totally blown by the effect.
" Moving on after Haunted, Bhatt is making not one, but two movies in 3D; Raaz 3 and Dangerous Ishq . Shirish Kunder has completed a schedule of Joker , his 3D film with Akshay Kumar and Sohail Khan will start his Sher Khan with Salman Khan next year.
Some of the upcoming films in 3D are RA.One, Don 2, Raaz 3, Joker, Dangerous Ishq and Sher Khan.
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(less)DAM 999 released in 550 cinema houses in India
In Kerala, the film is being shown in 50 theatres. The Tamil Nadu government had banned the movie yesterday amid mounting political pressure, saying its title refers to the Mullaperiyar dam row between the state and Kerala.
The government said that its release could disturb cordial ties between the two states and create law and order problem. Debutant director Sohan Roy, who plans to move the Supreme Court against the ban had termed it as "totally unfortunate.
" He said the film is based on real life incidents, bringing to life memories of the 1975 Banqiao dam disaster in China, which killed an estimated 2.5 lakh people.
"Shot in a single start-to-end schedule DAM 999 has 16 national and international award-winning cast and crew," he said. DAM 999 is about a corrupt mayor who builds a new dam for political gains, a mariner desperate to save his sister from evil, two lovers, a woman on a mission to win her family back, a little boy battling a deadly disease, a devoted wife wanting to be with her husband even in death and an astrologer who has foreseen their fate -- nine lives entwined by the impending disaster.
The multi starer, released in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam along with English, has been produced by UAE based BizTV Networks. The ban came even as Tamil Nadu and Kerala are locked in a war of words over the 116-year-old dam, which Kerala wants brought down to build a new one while Tamil Nadu opposes it.
The dam in Idukki district of Kerala is under Tamil Nadu's control and meets irrigation needs of farmers in Southern districts. Tweet
(less)Bollywood scripts huge success at Pak box office
Aamir Khan's 3 Idiots collected Rs 5 crore across the border and the Shah Rukh Khan-starrer My Name Is Khan raked in Rs 5.25 crore.
The Salman Khan-starrer Bodyguard outdid them both by earning Rs 6 crore. Another Shah Rukh-starrer, Don 2, meanwhile, is expected to pull in Rs 7.
25 crore. In fact, some experts say Pakistan is now one of Bollywood's top five overseas markets and could soon rival the business done in Australia.
The ban on Indian films was lifted across the border in 2006, but things began really hotting up a year later. Riffat Siddiqi, a well-known distributor in Pakistan, said, "From the time the market opened up in 2007, Indian films became the source for rebuilding cinema in the country.
Within just four years, the entertainment business grew by 300% at the box office." Bollywood can't ignore Pakistan now as an overseas market.
Trade pundits said the business pattern in Pakistan is similar to that of the Punjab territory in India. When the ban was lifted, the John Abraham-starrer 'Goal' was the first new Indian release to open there in November 2007.
It released with seven prints, but within two years the print run of Hindi films multiplied thrice over. '3 Idiots', released in 2009, was shown on 22 screens.
'Don 2', released in 2011, had 38 screens. Currently, there are about 80 cinema halls there and trade pundits say another 20 could be added in two years.
About 50 Hindi films release in Pakistan now every year and the big ones have the ability to do business of US $1 million (Rs 4 crore to 5 crore) or more, said Pakistani sources. All the top Khan films are sold for $200,000 to $300,000 (Rs 1 crore to 1.
5 crore). Hrithik Roshan, Saif Ali Khan and Akshay Kumar films go for $75,000 to $150,000 (Rs 37.
5 lakh to 75 lakh), said experts. India-based Amrita Pandey, of UTV Motion Pictures, said, "I think the growth has been significant -- from no release before 2007 to now, where the box office gross for an average film is $400,000 (Rs 2 crore).
With 50 Hindi films releasing there every year, Pakistan figures in the top five of the international markets." Siddiqi added, "India has six territories and Pakistan has two, Sindh and Baluchistan is one and Punjab and Frontier the other.
The growth of cinema at the moment remains in Sindh and Punjab only. Around 60% of the cinemas remain in Punjab, like in south India.
" Mahesh Ramanathan, of Reliance Entertainment, who takes the credit for tapping the Pakistan market, said that some frontier areas are now opening up. He said, "We have been at the forefront of the rapidly expanding market in Pakistan for Hindi films with '3 Idiots', 'Bodyguard' and 'Don 2' setting new marks there.
The screen count is set to increase in two to three years, he added, and "Pakistan can rival a major international market like Australia for Hindi films". Pakistan's film industry was able to release only 10 films last year, but there is a chance these numbers will go up.
Pakistani film producer Sevy Ali said, "The government has made it mandatory for every mall that is being built to have a multiplex, which will help the business of cinema grow. We only released 10 films last year, but this year there will be 20.
" Incidentally, late last year there were calls from within the Pakistani film industry and media to ban Indian films so that local efforts would get a boost. Indian film producers have to look for partners outside the country to get their films into Pakistan.
India-based Vikas Mohan, vice president of the Association of Motion Pictures and Television Programme Producers, said, "Production house are releasing their films through partners in Dubai or London. Pakistan is capable of being a territory that can generate a revenue of up to Rs 15 crore for any big film.
Unfortunately, there are still unresolved issues which deprive both sides from benefitting from the business of cinema." In the past year, the increase in multiplexes and introduction of digital cinema has boosted the business.
Nadeem Mandviwalla, of Mandviwalla Entertainment in Pakistan, said, "Digital cinema boosted the film exhibition business in Pakistan with the release of 'Ra-One' and 'Don 2'. 'Don 2's' opening week was better than other films with a business of nearly Rs 4 crore.
" Earlier, Indian films were sold in Pakistan for only a few lakhs, but now the price of big films has jumped by more than 40%. Pakistani film distributor Amjad Rashid, currently in India to buy films, said, "Today, the price for Salman Khan films is the highest in Pakistan.
Shah Rukh Khan's latest release, 'Don 2', has done record business at the box office. The buying of their films is likely to double this year.
" Bollywood's official foray into Pakistan may have been a recent occurrence, but despite the over 40-year ban, Bollywood, its icons, its music and its dancing have always remained an integral part of life in Pakistan. Yusra Askari, a mediaperson in Lahore, said, "Bollywood's impact appears everywhere, from the mainstay of a Pakistani wedding to street lingo.
" She added. "In the past decade, Bollywood-based artistic exchanges between India and Pakistan have initiated increased cultural interaction between the two countries.
Bollywood has not only gained a huge fan following in Pakistan, it has often attracted aspirants and sometimes even Pakistani cricketing icons try their luck at filmdom." Despite an increased cultural dialogue between Islamabad and Delhi, visas to travel to India may be still hard to come by for the average Pakistani, Askari added.
"Nevertheless, Pakistanis can always rely on Bollywood cinema to bring home a slice of Mumbai magic," she said. Currently about half-a-dozen actors and singers work in Bollywood films.
Rashid said, "We have only been importing films. It is high time we started exporting Pakistani television serials, which are very popular, and also the music, a high point of Pakistani culture.
I feel there is a need for India to do business with Pakistan and there should be relaxations in granting visas to artistes." Filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, considered a cultural ambassador, added, "There is abundant talent in Pakistan crying to be discovered.
Indian cinema is moving from strength to strength. We can add new colour to our products by taking fresh talent from Pakistan.
We both stand to benefit if we partner one another and make a co-production." But there is also an opinion that the presence of Pakistani artistes won't really help a film.
Producer Ali said, "Pakistanis want to see the Khans or maybe an Akshay Kumar or Hrithik Roshan. A Pakistani actor is a novelty in India, not in Pakistan.
"
(less)Bollywood bids for larger screen space
"A lot depends upon the budget of the film, the starcast and the director, in deciding the number of screens that film will be releasing in," Mumbai-based film distributor Narendra Hirawat told IANS. "If the plot of the film is good, star cast is good and audiences are impressed, the film is bound to do wonders, otherwise there are times when we have suffered losses," he added.
Made at a budget of Rs. 150 crore, Shah Rukh Khan's superhero flick "RA.
One" was released in more than 3000 screens, and Salman Khan's blockbuster hit "Bodyguard" was released in 2,250 screens. While "Delhi Belly" released in 1,400 screens, another blockbuster "Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara" (ZNMD) hit 1,800 screens.
Ranbir Kapoor-starrer "Rockstar" has also been released in 2,500 screens and cinema halls are running 14 to 15 shows in a day. Ritesh Sidhwani's "Don 2-The Chase Continues" may surpass "RA.
One" as an even bigger release during Christmas. The film is slated to release Dec 23.
Describing the change in movie business, Delhi-based distributor Joginder Mahajan says unlike previous years, the fate of the film is now decided in three days. "The days of running a film for 25 weeks in a theatre are over.
Today, the first three days of the film predict its fate at the box office. Even if the reviews of the film are bad, but it has a powerful star cast and is promoted well, then it easily recovers it costs in first three days," Mahajan told IANS.
Mahajan's views could be supported by facts that although "Bodyguard" and "RA.One" got mixed reviews the films managed to recover their cost in first three to four days.
Made at an approximate budget of Rs.60 crore, "Bodyguard" released on Eid and earned an estimated Rs.
86 crore in the first four days of its screening. "RA.
One" also recovered its cost by collecting Rs. 170 crore worldwide in the opening weekend.
On the other hand, ZNMD was made at the budget of Rs. 55 crore, and, over the weekend the film managed to earn Rs 59 crore.
Mahajan also blames piracy for making the competition fierce. "In days like today, piracy is so prevalent that on the second day of the film's release, one can get hold of the pirated version and download it online as well.
Thus the fate of the film relies on first three days," Mahajan added. Trade analyst Taran Adarsh admits that the market of films have opened up and thus filmmakers plan extensive release.
"The market of films has opened up, multiplexes are increasing and filmmakers are increasingly tapping in smaller cities. The business has come down to weekends thus they plan extensive release," Adarsh said, adding digitization of cinema is also contributing towards increasing the number of screens
(less)Rahman unveils romantic album at Taj Mahal
Rahman. "The movie has so many romantic songs, so what can be the perfect way to project my songs with Taj as a backdrop.
I always want people to recognise my music and this is what I am trying to do (through this album)," Rahman told reporters here on the sidelines of the music launch. "The film is the perfect expression of love and that's what the songs speak," he added.
Rahman was accompanied by the film's cast, Prateik and Amy Jackson. Even Prateik is excited to have got a chance to work with The Mozart of Madras.
"I love Taj, especially because it is a symbol of love. Also, working with Rahman was such a delight," said Prateik.
The album has an interesting mix of romantic and emotional numbers. While two of them are fresh Hindi songs, the remaining five are Hindi versions of original songs sung in Tamil and Telugu.
The lyrics are penned by Javed Akhtar. Directed by Gautham Menon, the film revolves around an aspiring filmmaker from Mumbai, who falls in love with a woman from a strict orthodox Christian family.
It is the remake of Tamil film Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa , which was also directed by Menon. Tweet
(less)American star Amy Rasimas in Bollywood flick
According to sources, the decision to take in Amy was reached when the unit was in the US some months ago, and decided to have a special version for its worldwide release. "Since the movie is set in USA and is on the plight of Sikhs post 9/11, it required an overdose of foreign element.
A separate character was created which is played by Amy," said the source. It is also been said that Amy has been paid around Rs 1.
5 crore for the project and that she might also groove in film's title song 'Sher jeha dil sada, I am Singh'. The movie has two versions, one for the Indian market and the other for international audiences.
Confirming this, Puneet said, "Yes the international version is scrunched to 90 minutes from the original 2.05 hours.
Amy is present in both the versions, but she's more prominent in the film's foreign variant." However, the names in both the versions remain the same and it will release simultaneously.
Amy, who has worked in dozens of films, including "Dinocroc vs. Supergator" and "The Unit", is happy to have reserved a berth in Bollywood.
When contacted, Amy said, "Indian film industry is vast and I would want to do more projects here." On "I am Singh" she said, "It's a challenging role and with this I am learning the finer nuances of acting, especially in Hindi movies.
" Standing tall at 5'.10", Amy plays the role of a lawyer who represents South Asian community.
"Her role is designed in keeping her personality," said Puneet. Notably, Amy's also a model and is keen to work in Indian reality shows.
"I have many Indian friends and that's another reason I am inquisitive about Indian cinema," said Amy, who after graduating from the Los Angeles County High School joined Brian Riese acting studio in Hollywood. Tweet'; var stindex=100; var stp=150; var taglen=0; var tmp; var tagcheck = new Array("div","span","br","font","a"); if(storymetalinks==true) { var storydiv=document.
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(less)Don 2 to release in 41 countries
"Learnt yesterday that Don 2 will release in 41 countries worldwide. Wow!! I guess that's the number of countries now out to catch him!!," Farhan wrote on twitter.
Don 2 will release in UK two days before its December 23 opening in India and the rest of the world. "Feel so proud to see the extent to which interest in Hindi movies has grown.
. Thanks to you.
. the Fans (pat yourself on back moment)," Farhan said.
The film is set to release on 23 December, in both 2D and 3D formats and will also be available in Tamil and Telugu. Tweet
(less)B'town wants a ban on Hindi dubbing of English movies
Speaking to DT, Bhatt said, "There are similar apprehensions in Bollywood and everyone is planning to come together and fight this practice of Hollywood films being dubbed in Hindi or Tamil. We cannot allow them to have a right over our mother tongue and use it to their advantage just because they have the budget.
Hollywood studios have big budgets for promotions and we can never match that. Hindi film producers are now planning to come together against this.
Letters have been written to the I&B ministry secretary in the past also, and I can say with full certainty that something similar is on the cards now. We face similar issues in other states at times.
For instance, I cannot get my movie dubbed in Bengali." In fact, in south India, English movies can only be dubbed in Tamil and Telugu and no other language, says Ravi Kottarakara of the South Indian Film Chamber of Commerce, adding, "As far as the association is concerned, I cannot say anything.
But on a personal level, I can say that we do face a loss of revenue when an English movie is dubbed in a regional language and released. If such a step is taken by Hindi film producers, we'll certainly support it, as I'm sure will other producers in south India.
It's just like the self-imposed code of conduct we have in place for the Kannada industry. It's a very fragile industry and no movie is dubbed in Kannada, to prevent competition for local cinema.
" While the industry may seem to be uniting against English releases, they will certainly face stiff resistance from the cinema owners' lobby. Deepak Sharma of PVR Cinemas says, "This is not a practical move.
If they do something like this, then international studios will also react. Also, I don't agree that English movies dubbed in regional languages result in a loss of revenue.
We have released 30 English films so far and only one has been dubbed in all three languages - Hindi, Tamil and Telugu. There are other factors too.
When there is no Hindi content in cinemas, it's usually English films or English films dubbed in Hindi that get patrons to cinemas. So the cinema lobby will never agree to this.
" In other states - Karnataka does not allow screening of dubbed films - In Andhra Pradesh, says Suresh Babu, president of the AP Film Chamber of Commerce, "there are serious concerns regarding Hollywood films eating into the market of Hindi and vernacular movies. The general consensus is, let Hollywood release their films in India in English with subtitles for various local markets.
If Bollywood takes a call on restricting dubbed Hollywood films, we will stand by them. The other problem we face is an onslaught of dubbed films from other Indian languages as well.
Such is the buzz around the dubbed version of "RA.One" that not a single Telugu film is releasing this Diwali.
We'd request stars like SRK or Rajini to release their films in the original languages." - In April this year, some members of the Bengali TV industry put their work on hold for a day to protest the airing of Bengali-dubbed Hindi serials on a local channel.
As for movies, Arijit Dutta, vice president, Eastern India Motion Pictures Association, says, "There is no official ban on dubbing Hollywood, Bollywood and Mollywood movies into Bengali. But EIMPA restricts such efforts.
" (Inputs from Sarah Salvadore and Priyanka Dasgupta)
(less)Rs. 64 crore opening for ‘Rockstar’ | Bollywood News and Gossip
The film co-produced by Shri Ashtavinayak Cine Vision Ltd. in association with Eros International Media Ltd.
released across more than 2,000 screens worldwide on 11th November 2011 and was the seventh largest first day India opening in Bollywood’s history. Hailed as Ranbir’s finest performance to date and his biggest ever opener, ROCKSTAR has grossed Rs.
53 crore in India (Net collection: Rs. 37crore) and Rs.
11 crore overseas in its first three days. Pranab Kapadia, President – Distribution – Eros International plc added, “Eros International adds another feather to its cap with ROCKSTAR which has been appreciated worldwide.
It has taken a fantastic opening overseas and has fared very well in UK, USA and the Middle East.” Sphere: Related Content Posted in
(less)RA.One nets highest ever Diwali day collections
5 crore with a net of Rs 18.5 crore on Wednesday (October 26th) making it the highest ever Diwali day collection in the history of Indian cinema.
The second day collections on Thursday, 27th October, were even more impressive with the film raking in a whopping Rs 36 crore gross with a net of Rs 25.10 crore net, making it the highest collection ever for a single day for an Indian film.
RA.One released on Diwali and while some critics gave it a thumbs up for blending elegance of Hollywood with Indian sensibilities, others panned the superhero drama by labelling it a 'video game'.
The reviews notwithstanding, the film managed to collect Rs 18 crore at the home box office on the opening day. Earlier, as predicted by trade pundits, the film couldn't break the first day collection records of Salman Khan-starrer Bodyguard , which earned Rs 22 crore in the domestic market on the opening day.
In the overseas market, the Red Chillies Entertainment and Eros International co-production raked in Rs 6.5 crore.
If reviewers have a different take on the film, viewers are also reacting differently but theatre owners predict good business in the coming week. "Although the film has got mixed reviews, the first day has been really good.
We witnessed more than 80 percent occupancy," a source in PVR said. "Moreover, the extensive marketing of the film has created a curiosity among people, who are eager to see what is the film all about," the source added.
Cinemax witnessed an average footfall on the first day. "There could be two reasons -- the 3D version of the film was made available a little late.
Although in metros it was fine, but in other cities due to delayed release in 3D we had to cancel some of the shows," said Sunil Punjab, CEO of Cinemax. "Also, we saw a decline in the occupancy in the evening as it was Diwali time and people were busy in Diwali puja.
But today (Thursday) the response has been encouraging since morning we have had good number of people coming to see the film," he added. Directed by Anubhav Sinha, the Rs 150-crore film, which also stars Kareena Kapoor and Arjun Rampal in prominent roles, was released in as many as 3,500 screens across the world.
Even before the film reached the theatres, its makers earned money by selling its satellite rights reportedly for Rs 35 crore and the distribution rights for Rs 77 crore. The film's highlight is high-tech VFX shots, which were outsourced from multiple specialty studios in London, Paris and Bangkok, as also the US.
Puneet Sahay of Spice Cinemas, however, informed that the film is not appealing to adults. "Although Shah Rukh's acting is good, RA.
One is basically a film for children as it boast of lot of animation and special effects. Adults are not actually liking the film.
However, it is likely to do well in the coming days," Sahay said. "Actually, it's nothing more than a video game," said college student Akhil Sharma.
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(less)RA.One nets highest ever Diwali day collections
5 crore with a net of Rs 18.5 crore on Wednesday (October 26th) making it the highest ever Diwali day collection in the history of Indian cinema.
The second day collections on Thursday, 27th October, were even more impressive with the film raking in a whopping Rs 36 crore gross with a net of Rs 25.10 crore net, making it the highest collection ever for a single day for an Indian film.
RA.One released on Diwali and while some critics gave it a thumbs up for blending elegance of Hollywood with Indian sensibilities, others panned the superhero drama by labelling it a 'video game'.
The reviews notwithstanding, the film managed to collect Rs 18 crore at the home box office on the opening day. Earlier, as predicted by trade pundits, the film couldn't break the first day collection records of Salman Khan-starrer Bodyguard , which earned Rs 22 crore in the domestic market on the opening day.
In the overseas market, the Red Chillies Entertainment and Eros International co-production raked in Rs 6.5 crore.
If reviewers have a different take on the film, viewers are also reacting differently but theatre owners predict good business in the coming week. "Although the film has got mixed reviews, the first day has been really good.
We witnessed more than 80 percent occupancy," a source in PVR said. "Moreover, the extensive marketing of the film has created a curiosity among people, who are eager to see what is the film all about," the source added.
Cinemax witnessed an average footfall on the first day. "There could be two reasons -- the 3D version of the film was made available a little late.
Although in metros it was fine, but in other cities due to delayed release in 3D we had to cancel some of the shows," said Sunil Punjab, CEO of Cinemax. "Also, we saw a decline in the occupancy in the evening as it was Diwali time and people were busy in Diwali puja.
But today (Thursday) the response has been encouraging since morning we have had good number of people coming to see the film," he added. Directed by Anubhav Sinha, the Rs 150-crore film, which also stars Kareena Kapoor and Arjun Rampal in prominent roles, was released in as many as 3,500 screens across the world.
Even before the film reached the theatres, its makers earned money by selling its satellite rights reportedly for Rs 35 crore and the distribution rights for Rs 77 crore. The film's highlight is high-tech VFX shots, which were outsourced from multiple specialty studios in London, Paris and Bangkok, as also the US.
Puneet Sahay of Spice Cinemas, however, informed that the film is not appealing to adults. "Although Shah Rukh's acting is good, RA.
One is basically a film for children as it boast of lot of animation and special effects. Adults are not actually liking the film.
However, it is likely to do well in the coming days," Sahay said. "Actually, it's nothing more than a video game," said college student Akhil Sharma.
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(less)It's RA.One vs Bodyguard
Despite all the hoopla surrounding the release, the opening figures of the film didn't match up to the numbers of his arch-rival Salman Khan's Eid release, Bodyguard . It's another thing, however, that the superhero and special effects extravaganza in the former made new records of highest numbers at the BO during Diwali.
However, trade experts are biding time till Monday to give their verdict, whether it is a hit or not, on the film directed by Anubhav Sinha. At the onset, veteran trade analyst Amod Mehra states that there's no comparison between RA.
One and Bodyguard . "Shah Rukh's film has about 800 screens more, and therefore, more shows.
The ticket prices have been hiked and it's playing in 3D in many theatres," he points out, adding that as far as first day collections are concerned, " RA.One has lost in the opening numbers.
"It earned about Rs 15.5 crore (Rs 14 cr from Hindi and Rs 1.
5 crore from Tamil, Telugu) as against over Rs 21 crore netted by Bodyguard on day one," he says, attributing the figures to low turnout in evening shows due to Laxmi Puja. However, the film's distributors peg their first day India figures at Rs 18.
5 crore and Rs 25 crore on Thursday. Sharing Mehra's opinion that Laxmi Puja was bound to affect the collections of RA.
One , Komal Nahta, trade expert and editor, koimoi.com, asserts: "Due to Laxmi Puja, you should compare first day numbers of Bodyguard with second day earnings of RA.
One . By that benchmark, RA.
One has earned more than Bodyguard ." Nahta, who pegs the first day collections at Rs 18 crore, is sure that in five days, RA.
One 's net collection will surpass that of Bodyguard . However, both Mehra and Nahta, share the opinion that the overseas numbers will give the best idea of the fate of the film, said to cost Rs 150 crore.
A Mumbai-based distributor, on condition of anonymity, wondered where would RA.One stand at the end of nine days, coming Thursday.
"Although everyone seems to be happy with the opening numbers, they're not exactly confident of making a decent profit," he said, pointing out that the first two days' collections are not strong on their merit. "Considering more screens and shows, exhibitors are in panic mode over RA.
One in the coming days." Another distributor based in central India said that the reports were not good, thereby causing a drop on Friday.
"Never mind if it's Bhai-Dooj, the concept of the movie has been rejected," he said, declining to be named. "I don't know how much it will sustain on Saturday-Sunday.
It's another Tees Maar Khan ." However, Suniel Wadhwa of 52 Weeks Entertainment Inc is optimistic.
Dismissing comparisons with Bodyguard , he says, " RA.One is high on graphics and visual effects.
So the cost is more than double of Salman's film. It's not right to compare the revenue aspect but ignore the costs.
Going by the current trend, it looks to cross Rs 90 crore in five days." Delhi-based distributor Sanjay Ghai of Mukta Arts Ltd tells us that Friday morning registered a drop of about 20-25 per cent due to Bhai-Dooj.
Further, he feels that SRK's film could net Rs 100 crore in five days. "However, if it drops on Monday, then it's a cause for concern.
More so, because it's an expensive film. RA.
One has to maintain the momentum till November 11 to make money over and above its high investment," he declared. No wonder, the favourable verdict of the film lies with the overseas fans of SRK.
As Mehra puts it: "Shah Rukh is a huge star overseas. Over there, there's no comparison between him and Salman.
" Tweet
(less)14 Tamil flicks to hit screens this Friday
More than a dozen small budget flicks and those starring new comers will be released this Friday, the last for the year, in order to make them eligible for the government's subsidy for small films for 2011. Films in the race this week are Ammaana Summa Illai , Padhinettaan Kudi , Paavi , Karuthakannan Rekla Race , Vinaayaga , Vazhividu Kanne Vazhividu , Maharaja , Mahaan Kanakku , Abaayam , Vettaiyaadu , Madhuvum Mythiliyum , Vettai Naayakan (dubbed version of Telugu flick Golimaar ), Puyal Veeran (Tamil version of Storm Warriors ) and Speed- 2 (in Tamil).
"All these films have new or upcoming heroes, and have been made on a considerably small budget of less than Rs 2 crores. They seem to be aiming at the state government's annual subsidy for small films," pointed a popular theatre owner, on condition of anonymity.
The state government offers a subsidy of Rs 7 lakh for select, small budget, quality films, which have Tamil titles. For the year 2005, 34 films were chosen for the subsidy, while for 2006, 36 films were chosen.
However, no announcement regarding the films eligible for subsidy for 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010 has been made. And yet, several small-time producers have rushed in their films for this weekend, observed the theatre owner.
A star campaigner for the AIADMK, Polur Jayagovindhan, whose film Ammanna Summa Illada is releasing this Friday, denied that his film was releasing this week only to be eligible for the subsidy. "My film has been in the cans for the last five years, and distributors during the DMK regime wanted me to change the film's title as they saw a reference to Amma in it.
My production house is also called Amma Kalaikoodam. I found people willing to release it only now, and thought This would be an ideal week as no big films will hit the screens till Pongal," he said.
If films eyeing the government subsidy are waiting for screen availability, those filmmakers aiming for awa-rds are keen on their films being certified this year. In order to appear in most national and international film festivals for this year, it is a prerequisite that the film is certified by the Central Board of Film Certification in 2011.
The CBFC has received 33 applications for certification this month alone. On an average, 15 films are certified every month by the certifying body.
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(less)Salman Khan: Star on ascendant, never mind the film
The lukewarm reviews and the thumping success of the Salman-Kareena Kapoor film across single theatres in India's hinterland and multiplexes in metro malls could be perplexing for some. But not for his fans queuing up to get entertained as only Salman it seems can; so what if the film isn't top-notch? If his 2009 release Wanted revived single screen theatres, his 2010 release Dabangg was the top grosser of the year.
This year his first release Ready did decent business at the ticket window but Bodyguard , released this Eid, is breaking records, beating the opening day collections of Dabangg and 3 Idiots . Bodyguard , the remake of a Malayalam film, has broken Dabangg's opening day record by a huge margin of about Rs.
7.5 crore and the second day collections at Rs.
18 crore is bigger than any film's Sunday collection. The film has been co-produced by Reliance Entertainment and Atul Agnihotri, Salman's brother-in-law.
And distributors can't stop celebrating. "The film is going 100 per cent occupancy in Uttar Pradesh.
Single screens are also going houseful. Both distributors and exhibitors are likely to rake in the moolah.
Although the reviews have been not very good, the film will cross the Rs.100- crore mark," Joginder Mahajan, a Delhi-based distributor, said.
T.N.
Kapoor of Bharti Film Distributors in Indore said: "The response has been fantastic. The occupancy is not going less than 90-95 per cent.
The film is likely to be the highest earner in Madhya Pradesh. We also manage Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and the response has been very good there too.
" "The film is not as good as Dabangg , but it is still doing fantastic business in small cities. While Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan are popular in metro cities, Salman is more popular among the masses in the interiors; hence the excitement is more," he added.
On the opening day, the film had already crossed over Rs 20 crore, which is much more than Dabangg and the film is likely to do much more business. Bihar-based distributor Ranjan Sinha said: "Any film in Bihar normally opens in 113-115 centres and Bodyguard is the first one to open in 150 centres.
If we compile numbers, the film has earned over Rs.1 crore in Bihar itself.
" The star, known to be close to his family, has helped his family cash in on his success. Brother Arbaaz hit the gold mine when he produced Dabangg and now brother-in-law Atul is raking it in with Bodyguard .
"We were expecting a good opening, but the number has gone beyond our prediction", said Atul. "Even in Cochin where people have seen both its Tamil and Malayalam versions, the film is doing extremely well," he said.
Sanjeev Lamba, CEO, Reliance Entertainment, said expectations from a Salman film at Eid are sky high. "We expect that the film will continue to create new milestones at the box office.
For Reliance Entertainment 'Bodyguard' caps an extremely successful summer." However, the star is himself missing the action as he is sitting miles away in a hospital in Pittsburgh and recuperating after a surgery to fix his nerve problem.
Film critic Khalid Mohammad feels the news of his health trouble, which came five days before the release of Bodyguard , has worked in favour of Salman. "Salman Khan has a good fan following and his presence in itself is charismatic.
There's also a sympathy wave riding on the actor, who is being treated for a medical condition," he said. "He has this glamorous presence and poster boy image; as a result he is getting such roles even at the age of 45.
Moreover, his time is also good; so whatever he does works well for him," Khalid said. Salman is the reigning Khan of the moment, the star who it seems is bigger than any film.
How long will the magic last, cinegoers wonder. Tweet
(less)DAM999 screenplay in Oscar library
Earlier, the screenplays of other Indian films like Chak De! India , Devdas and Lagaan have been placed in the library. DAM999 is about nine lives entwined by an impending disaster due to a dam.
The movie deals with a social cause -- the hazards posed by dams, and creates awareness among the masses about the dangers that can be caused by a dam collapse, if not attended on time. The Sohan Roy-directorial, produced by BizTV Network, features Rajit Kapur, Joshua Fredric Smith, Linda Arsenio, Gary Richardson, Jaala Pickering, Ashish Vidyarthi, Vinay Rai, Vimala Raman, Megha Burman and Jineet Rath.
The movie, to be distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, will be released nationwide Nov 25, in three regional languages - Hindi, Tamil and Telugu along with English.
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(less)Gautham Menon to relaunch Aditya Roy Kapoor
But now it turns out he has been busy in the south shooting for a Tamil-Telugu-Hindi movie, being directed by Menon. Menon, who is in the news for his new Hindi film "Ek Deewana Tha", confirmed the news.
"Yes, I am working with Aditya Roy Kapoor in a film that I am making in three languages - Tamil, Telugu and Hindi. The Hindi version with Aditya is called 'Assi Nabbe Poorey Sau'," he said.
About Kapoor, Menon said: "I spotted him on the location for Vipul Shah's 'Action Replayy'. I immediately knew he was right for 'Assi Nabbe Poorey Sau'.
" Menon has apparently shot almost the entire film already. The movie also features Samantha Ruth Prabhu.
While Kapoor plays the lead in the Hindi version of this adventure-comedy-drama, Tamil superstar Jeeva and Telugu star Nani play the lead in the other two versions of the film. Interestingly, Samantha, whom Menon introduced in Telugu film "Ye Maaya Chesave" in 2010, features in all three versions of the film.
"I already have three different heroes in three different languages to deal with. In addition, three heroines would have been impossible to handle.
So Samantha stars in all three languages," said Menon. The director says shooting a tri-lingual is like making three different films.
"I do one shot with Aditya and then the same shot with Jeeva and Nani. We go through every shot three times over in exactly the same way.
I've never done a film simultaneously in three languages," he said. However, Menon is worried about other things for now.
"At the moment, my full focus is on the release of 'Ek Deewana Tha'. It's a simple, old-fashioned love story," he said
(less)Salman Khan on a remake roll
Allu Arvind played the lead in the original."
(less)RA.One nets highest ever Diwali day collections
5 crore with a net of Rs 18.5 crore on Wednesday (October 26th) making it the highest ever Diwali day collection in the history of Indian cinema.
The second day collections on Thursday, 27th October, were even more impressive with the film raking in a whopping Rs 36 crore gross with a net of Rs 25.10 crore net, making it the highest collection ever for a single day for an Indian film.
RA.One released on Diwali and while some critics gave it a thumbs up for blending elegance of Hollywood with Indian sensibilities, others panned the superhero drama by labelling it a 'video game'.
The reviews notwithstanding, the film managed to collect Rs 18 crore at the home box office on the opening day. Earlier, as predicted by trade pundits, the film couldn't break the first day collection records of Salman Khan-starrer Bodyguard , which earned Rs 22 crore in the domestic market on the opening day.
In the overseas market, the Red Chillies Entertainment and Eros International co-production raked in Rs 6.5 crore.
If reviewers have a different take on the film, viewers are also reacting differently but theatre owners predict good business in the coming week. "Although the film has got mixed reviews, the first day has been really good.
We witnessed more than 80 percent occupancy," a source in PVR said. "Moreover, the extensive marketing of the film has created a curiosity among people, who are eager to see what is the film all about," the source added.
Cinemax witnessed an average footfall on the first day. "There could be two reasons -- the 3D version of the film was made available a little late.
Although in metros it was fine, but in other cities due to delayed release in 3D we had to cancel some of the shows," said Sunil Punjab, CEO of Cinemax. "Also, we saw a decline in the occupancy in the evening as it was Diwali time and people were busy in Diwali puja.
But today (Thursday) the response has been encouraging since morning we have had good number of people coming to see the film," he added. Directed by Anubhav Sinha, the Rs 150-crore film, which also stars Kareena Kapoor and Arjun Rampal in prominent roles, was released in as many as 3,500 screens across the world.
Even before the film reached the theatres, its makers earned money by selling its satellite rights reportedly for Rs 35 crore and the distribution rights for Rs 77 crore. The film's highlight is high-tech VFX shots, which were outsourced from multiple specialty studios in London, Paris and Bangkok, as also the US.
Puneet Sahay of Spice Cinemas, however, informed that the film is not appealing to adults. "Although Shah Rukh's acting is good, RA.
One is basically a film for children as it boast of lot of animation and special effects. Adults are not actually liking the film.
However, it is likely to do well in the coming days," Sahay said. "Actually, it's nothing more than a video game," said college student Akhil Sharma.
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(less)Not cashing on success of south remakes in B/wd: Gautham Menon
But it does not mean that if south film remakes are doing well so I am here or it is the right time for me to make a film in Hindi. I have already made Ek Deewana Tha in Tamil and Telugu and it did well.
I was always looking to do this film in Hindi..
.I thought it would be universally appealing," Gautham told PTI in an interview.
"It took us some time to come up with the Hindi version as we had pre-production work - planning dialogues to getting dates of Prateik. Since February 2010, we wanted to do this film much before the hindi version of Bodyguard, Ready and Singham came out and became hits," he said.
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(less)Sivaji changed my life completely: Shriya Saran
It did give me a lot of respect. It did open a lot of doors for me.
Deepa Mehta saw me in Sivaji and took me for Cooking With Stella and again in Midnight's Children . A lot of Hindi movie directors approached me after Sivaji ," said 29-year-old Shriya Saran.
The 2007 movie that had superstar Rajinikanth in the title role was one of the top earners of the year. Though she has made it big in southern cinema, Shriya is still struggling for name and fame in Bollywood and her last Hindi release was 2009 movie Ek: The Power of One .
After a three-year break, she will be seen in a Hindi movie titled Gali Gali Shor Hai which she said "is a political satire. It's not that we are slapping the system.
It's just that we are trying to bring a change." Shriya has teamed up with Mugdha Godse and Akshaye Khanna in Gali Gali Shor Hai , which is hitting screens Feb 3.
"Don't know whether it's a comeback or a long gap, but when I am doing a Telugu film people often ask me, 'Why aren't you doing Tamil films? When I am doing a Tamil film, they ask me why aren't you doing Hindi films. It was never a conscious effort.
I would like to do Hindi films as I am comfortable talking in Hindi," she said. Not only Hindi, she speaks other languages effortlessly.
"Hindi comes naturally to me because it's my mother tongue. Of course, even English! Telugu I have learnt and it is my third language.
I have also learnt Tamil but Malayalam is difficult." She may be working with people from different culture, background and languages, but the actress feels there is no cultural difference when it comes to work.
"Language changes with people, language changes with the sense of humour. The way stories are told changes.
The story said in Telugu will be different, Malayalam will be different and Hindi will be different. But the work culture doesn't really depend on the industry; it depends on the director you work with.
It depends on the people working on the film," Shriya stated. She would love to do more and more films, but remakes do not excite her so much.
"I don't enjoy remakes so much. I mean I am not sure whether I would be interested in remaking my own film.
Sometimes when story is changed and done well, then it's fantastic like Ghajini and Bodyguard . Dabangg and 3 Idiots have been remade in Tamil.
Story line should be changed in remakes," she said. Tweet
(less)Ra.One Smash Opening All Over India | Bollywood News and Gossip
In theatres playing the 3D version of the film, the opening was 100 per cent. Cinemas playing the 2D version of Ra.
One witnessed 70 ? 100 per cent occupancy. The less than 100 per cent collections is not surprising as today being Diwali, considered to be a little dull for the box-office as a lot of Hindus do not go to the cinemas, busy with pooja, guests and other festivities at home.
Salman Khan’s Bodyguard was released across 2,700 screens and collected Rs 22 crore net on day one and Rs 85 crore net on the extended five-day weekend. The cost of making the film has been approximately Rs 150 crore, which includes print and marketing costs.
Producers Eros International and Red Chillies Entertainment (SRK’s company) have already recovered up to Rs 102 crore through the sale of cable & satellite rights (Rs 35 crore), music rights (Rs 15 crore) and brand tie-ups (Rs 52 crore). Ra.
One has tied up with 25 brands – one of the biggest ever marketing blitzkrieg for any Indian film. Kamal Jain, Chief Financial Officer of Eros International says: “Most of the marketing cost was borne by the brands which are associated with the movie.
” Eros is also distributing the film worldwide. Ra.
One will release in dubbed versions in Telugu and Tamil and is releasing in 250 screens across the South. Bodyguard grossed almost Rs 10 crore from the South.
With dubbed versions and a much wider release, Ra.One, according to Eros, should bring in at least double of what Bodyguard did.
With superstar Rajinikanth doing a cameo in Ra.One, the film offers an added attraction to the viewers in the South.
Bodyguard was a Southern remake and the Southern audiences had already seen the original version. Sphere: Related Content Posted in
(less)RA.One collects Rs.170 crores over the weekend
170 crore worldwide in the opening weekend. The superstar is congratulating his business partners on the superhero's box office success.
Eros International Media Ltd (Eros International) released the collection report stating that the film has got a record breaking opening--the highly anticipated Diwali collected of Rs. 137.
25 crore (net collection Rs. 96 crore) in India and Rs.
32.75 crore overseas.
Apart from this, Shah Rukh Khan had reportedly sold the satellite rights for Rs.37 crore, the music rights for Rs.
8 crore and ancillary rights for Rs.10 crore even before the film had hit the screens.
"As always, my heart doesn't crunch numbers and heroes don't count zeros..
.but it's nice to know how RA.
One is flying," he further tweeted. "Ga Ga ooh la la.
..
Ra Ra Ra.One.
Thrilled with response. Congratulations to my business partners.
" Made at a budget of Rs.150 crore, the film, described as best in terms of technology, opened across more than 4,000 plus screens worldwide--3,100 plus screens in India and 904 prints internationally, including 3D and has become the biggest Hindi grosser in southern market too.
" RA.One released to packed houses across the country on Diwali day and has already created history by taking over the mantle of the biggest domestic earner so far.
|The film continues to be on its record breaking spree with several new achievements since its release. It has touched the highest individual collection in circuits such as Mumbai, Delhi, Punjab and Rajasthan," Nandu Ahuja, senior vice president, distribution, Eros International Media Ltd said in a statement.
"We see repeat viewings of the movie with the 3-D version being equally sought after. With the Eid holiday also coming up next week and no other major film release, we are anticipating the film to continue doing huge numbers," he added.
Speaking on the film's overseas performance, Pranab Kapadia, president, distribution, Eros International, said: "The film is enjoying a superb run across all major regions including UK, North America, Europe, Australia and the Middle East. "Overseas, the film has broken SRK's own previous first weekend record established by My Name Is Khan and occupies the position of biggest Indian first weekend grosser overseas as well.
" Eros plans to take the film to non-traditional markets-- RA.One is scheduled for theatrical release in the first quarter of 2012 across several territories including South Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Russia , Lebanon, Jordan, Syria and Palestine, Brazil, Spain, Italy and Greece .
Directed by Anubhav Sinha, RA.One saw the King Khan as G.
One along with Arjun Rampal as RA.One and Kareena Kapoor.
Though the critics didn't give it a thumbs up, the film's visual effects and state of the art production techniques have set a new standard in the Indian film industry. Tweet
(less)Mahesh Babu's Dookudu smashes box-office records abroad
The Los Angeles Times says " Dookudu , the biggest hit you've never heard of. While Hindi-oriented Bollywood movies sometimes land on domestic box-office charts, reminding the American film industry of the shadow economy that is Indian cinema in the US, it's rarer for a Tollywood film to pull off the feat," it says.
The super show of this action entertainer brings a great breather to the Telugu film industry, reeling from a lean patch with no hits for a long time. Besides, Mahesh Babu, Telugu cinema's "Prince" is back in the saddle.
The dashing actor was in fear of losing his "Prince" status with just one hit in the last five years. An emotional Mahesh Babu tweeted: "Will always b indebted 2my super director seenu vytla for givin me d biggest hit in my career:)thankyou sir:)" With no Telugu films releasing in the next two weeks, Dookudu has a clear shot at beating the record of highest collections, held by the 2009 action flick Magadheera, starring Ram Charan Teja and Kajal Agarwal.
Magadheera had the biggest-ever release worldwide for a Telugu film. So what makes Dookudu so special? "SuperStar's Action & Entertainment.
..
WHAT MORE DO YOU NEED?" screams a Facebook fan page. On Twitter fans call the movie "awesome" and "inspiring", while crediting "Prince" for his deft footwork and power-packed action.
Meanwhile, it's party time for the makers and cast of Dookudu . "Love u guys.
..
.now off2 party with my dookudu team.
..
.gonna b a long night:):)," tweeted Mahesh Babu.
You bet. Dookudu released worldwide on September 23.
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(less)The Dirty Picture gets the cash registers ringing
Overseas also, the movie has improved Vidya Balan's star status. Christening the film, The Lovely Picture , Komal Nahta, trade expert and editor of koimi.
com said, "The Hindi version has netted Rs 29.75 crore while the Tamil-Telugu versions have made Rs 1.
6 crore. Even on Monday, the morning and afternoon shows in many theatres were full.
" Concluding that he sees the film netting Rs 60 crore, he said, "That means distributors' share of Rs 30 crore from India alone." In the same vein, Amod Mehra, another trade veteran, attributes the movie' success to the promotions that connected with the audience immediately.
"The music has worked well. And the content was strong," he observed, pointing out that had the content been just sleazy without a sound story, then it wouldn't have worked.
If one thought the movie would not have clicked so well in the northern and eastern parts of the country, because of the inspiration from South siren Silk Smitha, it'd be wrong. Delhi-based distributor Sanjay Ghai of Mukta Arts Ltd says that the film delivered more than their expectations.
"I thought it would net about Rs 23 crore in the first three days, but about Rs 30 crore is mind-blowing. A movie can't work so well just on the masses, but needs the gentry and the youth to come in to watch it too.
Despite the 'A' rating, the film has done fabulously," he said. Aditya Choksi of Indore-based Akshar Enterprises shares Ghai's opinion.
He had expected the movie to do well in Central India, as he said, "I had faith in director Milan Luthria, the shock value of his subject and the correct promotion. When a film holds strong on Monday, it proves that content and right marketing are king.
The first three days' numbers of this film are more than Rockstar and Desi Boyz ." On Tuesday too, the trade gurus are expecting the film to continue its good run, due to Muharram being a bank holiday.
As Manoj Desai, Executive Director of Maratha Mandir and G7 Cineplex tells us, "Non-Muslim audience will come in to see the film that is already getting its repeat audience. People are enjoying the film and applauding often for many scenes and dialogue.
And not to forget Vidya Balan, for the bold way in which she's portrayed the part of Silk." Mehra is certain the film will continue to do well in its second weekend too, never mind Yashraj's Ladies VS Ricky Bahl with Ranveer Singh and Anuska Sharma releasing this Friday.
" Ladies VS Ricky Bahl is not looking great. So whatever numbers The Dirty Picture does in its second weekend is additional bonus.
It's already done enough numbers to be a super hit," he concluded. Tweet
(less)14 Tamil flicks to hit screens this Friday
More than a dozen small budget flicks and those starring new comers will be released this Friday, the last for the year, in order to make them eligible for the government's subsidy for small films for 2011. Films in the race this week are Ammaana Summa Illai , Padhinettaan Kudi , Paavi , Karuthakannan Rekla Race , Vinaayaga , Vazhividu Kanne Vazhividu , Maharaja , Mahaan Kanakku , Abaayam , Vettaiyaadu , Madhuvum Mythiliyum , Vettai Naayakan (dubbed version of Telugu flick Golimaar ), Puyal Veeran (Tamil version of Storm Warriors ) and Speed- 2 (in Tamil).
"All these films have new or upcoming heroes, and have been made on a considerably small budget of less than Rs 2 crores. They seem to be aiming at the state government's annual subsidy for small films," pointed a popular theatre owner, on condition of anonymity.
The state government offers a subsidy of Rs 7 lakh for select, small budget, quality films, which have Tamil titles. For the year 2005, 34 films were chosen for the subsidy, while for 2006, 36 films were chosen.
However, no announcement regarding the films eligible for subsidy for 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010 has been made. And yet, several small-time producers have rushed in their films for this weekend, observed the theatre owner.
A star campaigner for the AIADMK, Polur Jayagovindhan, whose film Ammanna Summa Illada is releasing this Friday, denied that his film was releasing this week only to be eligible for the subsidy. "My film has been in the cans for the last five years, and distributors during the DMK regime wanted me to change the film's title as they saw a reference to Amma in it.
My production house is also called Amma Kalaikoodam. I found people willing to release it only now, and thought This would be an ideal week as no big films will hit the screens till Pongal," he said.
If films eyeing the government subsidy are waiting for screen availability, those filmmakers aiming for awa-rds are keen on their films being certified this year. In order to appear in most national and international film festivals for this year, it is a prerequisite that the film is certified by the Central Board of Film Certification in 2011.
The CBFC has received 33 applications for certification this month alone. On an average, 15 films are certified every month by the certifying body.
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(less)Review: Kannada Movie Body Guard
Tamil remake was titled Kavalan and Vijay and Asin Thottumkal starrer received a satisfactory response at the ticket window, and the Hindi version starring Salman Khan and Kareena Kapoor was a hit too. While the earlier three versions were directed by Siddique, Anand wielded the megaphone for the Kannada remake.
In fact, he returned to direction after a long time. The film suffers on many counts.
The artists selected for lead roles are miscast. Actor-director Guru Datt, who plays heroine's father, doesn't fit the bill either.
Jaggesh, who does well in comedies, doesn't look good in his role. Poor production values has also affected the film badly.
Though the Kannada version has followed the Malayalam original, its screen presentation is of low quality. The melodramatic twist in the last 20 minutes is certainly a treat for the viwers who have not seen the original or the other two versions.
Jaggesh has tried his best to salvage the film by his comic timing and peculiar dialogue delivery. But Jaggesh's effort will not overshadow the weak points in the film which includes lack of depthness in the narration.
The film moves at snail's pace and crucial sequences are marred by poor writing. When a politician is attacked by his opponents, safety of his and his family members becomes an issue.
So, Ashokanna hires Jayakrishna as his daughter Ammu's bodyguard. Jayakrishna accompanies her even to her college, which makes things awkward for Ammu.
Ammu pretends to love Jaykrishna and even calls him from a private number. But Ammu's pretence becomes reality and she actually falls for her bodyguard.
Meanwhile Ammu's friend Poorna plays a spoil sport. How Jayakrishna and Ammu are united in the end forms the rest of the story.
Daisy Shah looks artificial and her performance leaves much to be desired. Spoorthi is just okay.
Sadhu Kokila shines in comedy sequences. Ashok's camera work and Vinaya Chandra's music are much better when compared to other technical work in the film.
Body Guard is just an average flick which can be enjoyed only by ardent Jaggesh fans. Tweet
(less)Richa drops her Bollywood film
Shortcut Romeo is the remake of the Tamil hit Thiruttu Payale , which was directed by Susi Ganesan. The Hindi version has Neil Nitin Mukesh and Ameesha Patel in the lead roles.
Richa was to play the role that Sonia Agarwal had played in the Tamil version. "Before I signed the film, both the director and the actor were flexible with the dates and I had also informed them that I would be simultaneously doing a Telugu project.
But after the agreement was signed and film confirmed, Neil Nithin Mukesh was slightly pushy about the dates and wanted me to commit for three full months for this film," says the actress. The upset actress has even explained her situation to them.
"In fact, they promised to close the shoot by February. But it's already December and the shooting is yet to start," added the actress.
However, Richa is inclined to do the movie. "I really liked the script and the photoshoot has also been done.
But because of a simple logistics issue, I had to terminate the agreement. It's formally over now.
Presently, I'm doing only a Telugu project," the actress informed. Tweet
(less)RA.One collects Rs.170 crores over the weekend
170 crore worldwide in the opening weekend. The superstar is congratulating his business partners on the superhero's box office success.
Eros International Media Ltd (Eros International) released the collection report stating that the film has got a record breaking opening--the highly anticipated Diwali collected of Rs. 137.
25 crore (net collection Rs. 96 crore) in India and Rs.
32.75 crore overseas.
Apart from this, Shah Rukh Khan had reportedly sold the satellite rights for Rs.37 crore, the music rights for Rs.
8 crore and ancillary rights for Rs.10 crore even before the film had hit the screens.
"As always, my heart doesn't crunch numbers and heroes don't count zeros..
.but it's nice to know how RA.
One is flying," he further tweeted. "Ga Ga ooh la la.
..
Ra Ra Ra.One.
Thrilled with response. Congratulations to my business partners.
" Made at a budget of Rs.150 crore, the film, described as best in terms of technology, opened across more than 4,000 plus screens worldwide--3,100 plus screens in India and 904 prints internationally, including 3D and has become the biggest Hindi grosser in southern market too.
" RA.One released to packed houses across the country on Diwali day and has already created history by taking over the mantle of the biggest domestic earner so far.
|The film continues to be on its record breaking spree with several new achievements since its release. It has touched the highest individual collection in circuits such as Mumbai, Delhi, Punjab and Rajasthan," Nandu Ahuja, senior vice president, distribution, Eros International Media Ltd said in a statement.
"We see repeat viewings of the movie with the 3-D version being equally sought after. With the Eid holiday also coming up next week and no other major film release, we are anticipating the film to continue doing huge numbers," he added.
Speaking on the film's overseas performance, Pranab Kapadia, president, distribution, Eros International, said: "The film is enjoying a superb run across all major regions including UK, North America, Europe, Australia and the Middle East. "Overseas, the film has broken SRK's own previous first weekend record established by My Name Is Khan and occupies the position of biggest Indian first weekend grosser overseas as well.
" Eros plans to take the film to non-traditional markets-- RA.One is scheduled for theatrical release in the first quarter of 2012 across several territories including South Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Russia , Lebanon, Jordan, Syria and Palestine, Brazil, Spain, Italy and Greece .
Directed by Anubhav Sinha, RA.One saw the King Khan as G.
One along with Arjun Rampal as RA.One and Kareena Kapoor.
Though the critics didn't give it a thumbs up, the film's visual effects and state of the art production techniques have set a new standard in the Indian film industry. Tweet
(less)It's RA.One vs Bodyguard
Despite all the hoopla surrounding the release, the opening figures of the film didn't match up to the numbers of his arch-rival Salman Khan's Eid release, Bodyguard . It's another thing, however, that the superhero and special effects extravaganza in the former made new records of highest numbers at the BO during Diwali.
However, trade experts are biding time till Monday to give their verdict, whether it is a hit or not, on the film directed by Anubhav Sinha. At the onset, veteran trade analyst Amod Mehra states that there's no comparison between RA.
One and Bodyguard . "Shah Rukh's film has about 800 screens more, and therefore, more shows.
The ticket prices have been hiked and it's playing in 3D in many theatres," he points out, adding that as far as first day collections are concerned, " RA.One has lost in the opening numbers.
"It earned about Rs 15.5 crore (Rs 14 cr from Hindi and Rs 1.
5 crore from Tamil, Telugu) as against over Rs 21 crore netted by Bodyguard on day one," he says, attributing the figures to low turnout in evening shows due to Laxmi Puja. However, the film's distributors peg their first day India figures at Rs 18.
5 crore and Rs 25 crore on Thursday. Sharing Mehra's opinion that Laxmi Puja was bound to affect the collections of RA.
One , Komal Nahta, trade expert and editor, koimoi.com, asserts: "Due to Laxmi Puja, you should compare first day numbers of Bodyguard with second day earnings of RA.
One . By that benchmark, RA.
One has earned more than Bodyguard ." Nahta, who pegs the first day collections at Rs 18 crore, is sure that in five days, RA.
One 's net collection will surpass that of Bodyguard . However, both Mehra and Nahta, share the opinion that the overseas numbers will give the best idea of the fate of the film, said to cost Rs 150 crore.
A Mumbai-based distributor, on condition of anonymity, wondered where would RA.One stand at the end of nine days, coming Thursday.
"Although everyone seems to be happy with the opening numbers, they're not exactly confident of making a decent profit," he said, pointing out that the first two days' collections are not strong on their merit. "Considering more screens and shows, exhibitors are in panic mode over RA.
One in the coming days." Another distributor based in central India said that the reports were not good, thereby causing a drop on Friday.
"Never mind if it's Bhai-Dooj, the concept of the movie has been rejected," he said, declining to be named. "I don't know how much it will sustain on Saturday-Sunday.
It's another Tees Maar Khan ." However, Suniel Wadhwa of 52 Weeks Entertainment Inc is optimistic.
Dismissing comparisons with Bodyguard , he says, " RA.One is high on graphics and visual effects.
So the cost is more than double of Salman's film. It's not right to compare the revenue aspect but ignore the costs.
Going by the current trend, it looks to cross Rs 90 crore in five days." Delhi-based distributor Sanjay Ghai of Mukta Arts Ltd tells us that Friday morning registered a drop of about 20-25 per cent due to Bhai-Dooj.
Further, he feels that SRK's film could net Rs 100 crore in five days. "However, if it drops on Monday, then it's a cause for concern.
More so, because it's an expensive film. RA.
One has to maintain the momentum till November 11 to make money over and above its high investment," he declared. No wonder, the favourable verdict of the film lies with the overseas fans of SRK.
As Mehra puts it: "Shah Rukh is a huge star overseas. Over there, there's no comparison between him and Salman.
" Tweet
(less)Agneepath overwhelms global box office, earns $3.2 mn
160 million) since it opened on January 26. Eros International released the Hrithik Roshan-starrer on 337 screens worldwide.
The film, directed by debutant Karan Malhotra, grossed 347,000 pounds in Britain in the first four days. In the US, the four-day collections were $1.
3 million and in the UAE, Agneepath collected more than $800,000. " Agneepath has done extremely well in all the overseas markets making it the first blockbuster of the year.
The tremendous response has been very encouraging with all major markets indicating remarkable box office results," Pranab Kapadia, president, marketing and distribution, Eros International, said in a statement. Meanwhile, after a record first day opening, the film is on its way to join the Rs.
1 billion club as it has already earned Rs.750 million in the five days of its release.
If trade experts are to be believed, the film is likely to do better as there is no big release in the coming weekend. "All of us at Dharma Productions are ecstatic with the collections.
It truly is the director Karan Malhotra's vision that has made it all possible. Revisiting a cult classic is a dating task.
..
.and he along with his brilliant cast and crew have helped create box office magic," said an overwhelmed Karan Johar, the producer.
Agneepath is the remake of 1990 film of the same name, but it was not a commercial success. However, Amitabh Bachchan got a national award for his performance.
The new version of the movie has Hrithik playing the iconic Vijay Dinanath Chauhan. Rishi Kapoor and Sanjay Dutt are getting rave reviews for their portrayals of Rauf Lala and Kancha Cheena respectively.
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(less)Mahesh Babu's Dookudu smashes box-office records abroad
The Los Angeles Times says " Dookudu , the biggest hit you've never heard of. While Hindi-oriented Bollywood movies sometimes land on domestic box-office charts, reminding the American film industry of the shadow economy that is Indian cinema in the US, it's rarer for a Tollywood film to pull off the feat," it says.
The super show of this action entertainer brings a great breather to the Telugu film industry, reeling from a lean patch with no hits for a long time. Besides, Mahesh Babu, Telugu cinema's "Prince" is back in the saddle.
The dashing actor was in fear of losing his "Prince" status with just one hit in the last five years. An emotional Mahesh Babu tweeted: "Will always b indebted 2my super director seenu vytla for givin me d biggest hit in my career:)thankyou sir:)" With no Telugu films releasing in the next two weeks, Dookudu has a clear shot at beating the record of highest collections, held by the 2009 action flick Magadheera, starring Ram Charan Teja and Kajal Agarwal.
Magadheera had the biggest-ever release worldwide for a Telugu film. So what makes Dookudu so special? "SuperStar's Action & Entertainment.
..
WHAT MORE DO YOU NEED?" screams a Facebook fan page. On Twitter fans call the movie "awesome" and "inspiring", while crediting "Prince" for his deft footwork and power-packed action.
Meanwhile, it's party time for the makers and cast of Dookudu . "Love u guys.
..
.now off2 party with my dookudu team.
..
.gonna b a long night:):)," tweeted Mahesh Babu.
You bet. Dookudu released worldwide on September 23.
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(less)Salman refuses to believe Bodyguard is a success: Atul Agnihotri
"He is not totally convinced. He is thinking that we are saying this to cheer him up.
This is because he is totally cut off from his regular sources. If he had been in Mumbai, he would have had more interaction, seen more TV and read editorials.
There he is totally depending on what we are saying," said Atul, who co-produced the film with Reliance. Bodyguard, which released on Eid, has surpassed the opening day box-office collection of Dabangg (Rs 14.
5 crore) and 3 Idiots (Rs13 crore) by garnering Rs 22 crore in the domestic market. Salman, 45, is expected to be home in 10 days.
He is currently under observation, said Atul. "First, they did some test on him and then he was subjected to the first medical procedure.
The surgery went for eight hours. Now he is under three-day observation.
I think tomorrow night (Saturday) or day after (Sunday) morning they will review and go for the next step. He will be there for a week or 10 days more," he said.
Atul is riding high on the unprecedented success of the Salman-Kareena Kapoor starrer action-drama, which has received overwhelming response from the audiences despite bad reviews. "We were expecting a good opening but the number has gone beyond our prediction.
For us, before the release (of Bodyguard), Dabangg was the benchmark. That we have surpassed, which is a great thing," he said.
The film is scoring high even in south despite being a Hindi remake of Malayalam film of the same name. It was also made in Tamil.
"Even in Cochin where people have seen both its Tamil and Malayalam version, the film is doing extremely well. Till yesterday (Thursday) we had two theatres, today (Friday) we have opened up third screen so that's an indicator of the reaction of the audience in south," said the 41-year-old actor-director-producer.
Atul is expecting the box office collection to touch Rs 85 crore by this weekend. "As 31st was a holiday, we did a business of around Rs 21.
57 crore, then yesterday (Thursday) we have touched about Rs 19 crore again. In that sense we have already done around Rs 41 crore and above, across India.
Today is a Friday. In three days (including weekends) there is a possibility that we would cross Rs 80 to Rs 85 crore in India," said Atul.
Here's the trailer for the film: Tweet
(less)Amitabh unveils first look of Sayali Bhagat's film
The film will be released in three languages -- Hindi, Tamil and Telugu
(less)Rockstar earns Rs 64 crore over the weekend
Veteran actress Shabana Azmi has praised Ranbir Kapoor's performance and said that the film "tugged at my heartstrings..
.Hindi cinema is finally coming of age".
Co-produced by Shree Ashtavinayak Cinevision Ltd and Eros International, the film released on more than 2,000 screens worldwide and registered Rs.53 crore in India and Rs.
11 crore overseas in first three days of its release, said a statement. The musical thriller, made on a budget of over Rs.
60 crore, opened with mixed reviews, but everyone praised Ranbir's performance as an aspiring singer who turns into an aggressive lover after being jilted. Both critics and fans describe it as young actor's finest performance to date and Shabana agrees too.
"Ranbir's performance in Rockstar is totally original he inhabits Jordan's complex world and infuses it with childlike honesty that's believable," she posted on micro-blogging site Twitter. "Imtiaz Ali's writing in Rockstar is surprising and unpredictable.
Tugged at my heartstrings..
.Hindi cinema is finally coming of age.
.wow," she further added.
Rockstar introduces two new faces--Pakistani-American model Nargis Fakhri and Brazilian model Moufid Aziz. Tweet
(less)Sonam Kapoor in Mani Ratnam’s next film
Mumbai Mirror has learnt that the actress has been approached by the filmmaker for his next Tamil project. Initially, Ratnam was to direct a Hindi film with Abhishek and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan , but since the couple recently became parents, the director had to put the project on the back burner.
Sonam's friend revealed to us that initially the actress was skeptical about working in a regional film. "Sonam's dad convinced her to do the film, since Anil himself had started his career with a Telugu film.
She will be required to learn enough of the language to understand her dialogue, however, her lines will ultimately be dubbed," explained Sonam's friend. Apparently, the romantic film is not only a first for Sonam.
Reportedly, the project will launch the career of Tamil actor Karthik's son Gautham. When we asked Sonam about her decision to star in a regional project, the actress said, "We (the Hindi film industry) are always remaking regional movies.
I would rather be a part of the original. I wouldn't like to comment on working with Mani sir.
But yes, I would love to do something amazing, after Players. However, nothing is confirmed yet.
"
(less)Don 2 grosses Rs.15.3 crore on first day
The film is a sequel to Farhan Akhtar's 2006 Don , which was a remake of the 1978 Amitabh Bachchan starrer of the same name. In overseas markets, Don 2 broke the record for the highest single day gross for a Hindi film in Australia with estimated earnings of US$82,000 Friday.
The earlier record was Reliance Entertainment's Bodyguard at US$74,000. Don 2 , also starring Priyanka Chopra, Boman Irani, Kunal Kapoor and Lara Dutta earned $550,000 in North America, beating My Name is Khan opening day gross of $445,000.
Don 2 released with 3,000 movie prints in the domestic market and a 3D release on another 550 screens. Tweet
(less)Review: Kannada Movie Body Guard
Tamil remake was titled Kavalan and Vijay and Asin Thottumkal starrer received a satisfactory response at the ticket window, and the Hindi version starring Salman Khan and Kareena Kapoor was a hit too. While the earlier three versions were directed by Siddique, Anand wielded the megaphone for the Kannada remake.
In fact, he returned to direction after a long time. The film suffers on many counts.
The artists selected for lead roles are miscast. Actor-director Guru Datt, who plays heroine's father, doesn't fit the bill either.
Jaggesh, who does well in comedies, doesn't look good in his role. Poor production values has also affected the film badly.
Though the Kannada version has followed the Malayalam original, its screen presentation is of low quality. The melodramatic twist in the last 20 minutes is certainly a treat for the viwers who have not seen the original or the other two versions.
Jaggesh has tried his best to salvage the film by his comic timing and peculiar dialogue delivery. But Jaggesh's effort will not overshadow the weak points in the film which includes lack of depthness in the narration.
The film moves at snail's pace and crucial sequences are marred by poor writing. When a politician is attacked by his opponents, safety of his and his family members becomes an issue.
So, Ashokanna hires Jayakrishna as his daughter Ammu's bodyguard. Jayakrishna accompanies her even to her college, which makes things awkward for Ammu.
Ammu pretends to love Jaykrishna and even calls him from a private number. But Ammu's pretence becomes reality and she actually falls for her bodyguard.
Meanwhile Ammu's friend Poorna plays a spoil sport. How Jayakrishna and Ammu are united in the end forms the rest of the story.
Daisy Shah looks artificial and her performance leaves much to be desired. Spoorthi is just okay.
Sadhu Kokila shines in comedy sequences. Ashok's camera work and Vinaya Chandra's music are much better when compared to other technical work in the film.
Body Guard is just an average flick which can be enjoyed only by ardent Jaggesh fans. Tweet
(less)Bollywood's highest paid stars
"But they're also producers of their films, like Aamir for Talaash , SRK for Don 2 , Salman for Bodyguard , Dabangg 2 . So a major portion of their remuneration comes from the revenue the movie earns," says a trade veteran.
Actresses : Reports may insinuate that Katrina Kaif was offered Rs 20 crore by Vashu Bhagnani to star in his next film but sources maintain that Kareena Kapoor is the highest paid of the lot. After being paid over Rs 3.
5 crore for Golmaal 3 , the Heroine is being paid Rs 5 crore plus a share in the profits for Heroine. But this is most likely to be a one-off instance, given the circumstances.
Directors : Rajkumar Hirani is known for a bigger hit every time, starting with Munnabhai MBBS till the mammoth 3 Idiots . Trade experts peg Hirani's fees at Rs 15 crore plus at least 25 percent of the revenue the film earns.
Writers : Abhijat Joshi, with help from Rajkumar Hirani, salvaged the position of good writers. He's the highest paid writer on the block with his paycheck bulked up to Rs 3 crore after 3 Idiots .
Production designers : This pack is clearly led by Nitin Chandrakant Desai. His fee alone is at least a crore; in addition he recommends his own ND studio, the rent of which of course, is earned separately.
Close behind is Sabu Cyril, whose take home too is over Rs 75 lakh. Cinematographers : Ravi K Chandran earned over Rs 1 crore for SRK's RA.
One . This fee may be justified by the fact that the movie cost about Rs 150 crore to make.
In the same league is Binod Pradhan, who shot films like Devdas, Rang De Basanti , but was paid a fee of Rs 1.5 crore for South star Pavan Kalyan's Puli .
"What is amazing that Binod had signed the package deal of Rs 4 crore for cinematography, including fees of his assistants," reveals a source. It is learnt that Pradhan has acquired a high-end camera and henceforth will shoot only on it.
"So now he will also charge the rent for the equipment," pointed out our source. Music composers : Without doubt, A R Rahman features on top.
The Oscar winner earns Rs 5-8 crore per film, which also include his fees for creating the background score. Pritam comes second, with about Rs 3 crore per film.
"And that works out at Rs 25 lakh per song, including fees for the singers, studio rentals etc," says our source. Sound designers : Thanks to the Oscar award, Resul Pokuttu beats everyone else in this department.
He is said to charge Rs 50 lakh per film. He also earns through rent of his studio, as he doesn't like working in any other studio.
Action directors : Though a considerable amount of the budget is set aside for an action film, the men who call the shots are paid comparatively lesser. However, they make up for it in the daily expenses, reveal our sources.
South based Peter Hein and Allan Amin, who directed the thrills for the Dhoom series, are the most expensive in their domain. They charge Rs 30 lakh per film, but to shoot with them costs an additional Rs 2.
5 lakh upwards per day for the harnesses, cables and other equipment. Choreographers : Farah Khan and Remo D'Souza, are among the highest paid choreographers along with Ganesh Hegde and Vaibhavi Merchant.
Sources peg their fees (per song) at a minimum of Rs 25 lakh, going up to Rs 50 lakh. Editors : Production sources swear by Shreekar Prasad, who edited films like Raavan , National Award winning Tamil film Kutty Shrank, Kaminey , etc.
He's believed to charge Rs 25 lakh per film, plus another R 8 lakh to cut the promos. Lyricists : Javed Akhtar takes the credit as he's said to charge Rs 10 lakh per song.
Not far behind is Prasoon Joshi, who's believed to demand Rs 8 lakh per number. Playback singers : Sonu Niigam makes the most among the male playback singers, earning a cool Rs 10 lakhs per song.
Among the females, Sunidhi Chauhan and Shreya Ghoshal rule the roost, making Rs 2.5 lakh per song.
"And of course, the singers make extra moolah by singing those songs in shows." Tweet
(less)It's RA.One vs Bodyguard
Despite all the hoopla surrounding the release, the opening figures of the film didn't match up to the numbers of his arch-rival Salman Khan's Eid release, Bodyguard . It's another thing, however, that the superhero and special effects extravaganza in the former made new records of highest numbers at the BO during Diwali.
However, trade experts are biding time till Monday to give their verdict, whether it is a hit or not, on the film directed by Anubhav Sinha. At the onset, veteran trade analyst Amod Mehra states that there's no comparison between RA.
One and Bodyguard . "Shah Rukh's film has about 800 screens more, and therefore, more shows.
The ticket prices have been hiked and it's playing in 3D in many theatres," he points out, adding that as far as first day collections are concerned, " RA.One has lost in the opening numbers.
"It earned about Rs 15.5 crore (Rs 14 cr from Hindi and Rs 1.
5 crore from Tamil, Telugu) as against over Rs 21 crore netted by Bodyguard on day one," he says, attributing the figures to low turnout in evening shows due to Laxmi Puja. However, the film's distributors peg their first day India figures at Rs 18.
5 crore and Rs 25 crore on Thursday. Sharing Mehra's opinion that Laxmi Puja was bound to affect the collections of RA.
One , Komal Nahta, trade expert and editor, koimoi.com, asserts: "Due to Laxmi Puja, you should compare first day numbers of Bodyguard with second day earnings of RA.
One . By that benchmark, RA.
One has earned more than Bodyguard ." Nahta, who pegs the first day collections at Rs 18 crore, is sure that in five days, RA.
One 's net collection will surpass that of Bodyguard . However, both Mehra and Nahta, share the opinion that the overseas numbers will give the best idea of the fate of the film, said to cost Rs 150 crore.
A Mumbai-based distributor, on condition of anonymity, wondered where would RA.One stand at the end of nine days, coming Thursday.
"Although everyone seems to be happy with the opening numbers, they're not exactly confident of making a decent profit," he said, pointing out that the first two days' collections are not strong on their merit. "Considering more screens and shows, exhibitors are in panic mode over RA.
One in the coming days." Another distributor based in central India said that the reports were not good, thereby causing a drop on Friday.
"Never mind if it's Bhai-Dooj, the concept of the movie has been rejected," he said, declining to be named. "I don't know how much it will sustain on Saturday-Sunday.
It's another Tees Maar Khan ." However, Suniel Wadhwa of 52 Weeks Entertainment Inc is optimistic.
Dismissing comparisons with Bodyguard , he says, " RA.One is high on graphics and visual effects.
So the cost is more than double of Salman's film. It's not right to compare the revenue aspect but ignore the costs.
Going by the current trend, it looks to cross Rs 90 crore in five days." Delhi-based distributor Sanjay Ghai of Mukta Arts Ltd tells us that Friday morning registered a drop of about 20-25 per cent due to Bhai-Dooj.
Further, he feels that SRK's film could net Rs 100 crore in five days. "However, if it drops on Monday, then it's a cause for concern.
More so, because it's an expensive film. RA.
One has to maintain the momentum till November 11 to make money over and above its high investment," he declared. No wonder, the favourable verdict of the film lies with the overseas fans of SRK.
As Mehra puts it: "Shah Rukh is a huge star overseas. Over there, there's no comparison between him and Salman.
" Tweet
(less)Bollywood's highest paid stars
"But they're also producers of their films, like Aamir for Talaash , SRK for Don 2 , Salman for Bodyguard , Dabangg 2 . So a major portion of their remuneration comes from the revenue the movie earns," says a trade veteran.
Actresses : Reports may insinuate that Katrina Kaif was offered Rs 20 crore by Vashu Bhagnani to star in his next film but sources maintain that Kareena Kapoor is the highest paid of the lot. After being paid over Rs 3.
5 crore for Golmaal 3 , the Heroine is being paid Rs 5 crore plus a share in the profits for Heroine. But this is most likely to be a one-off instance, given the circumstances.
Directors : Rajkumar Hirani is known for a bigger hit every time, starting with Munnabhai MBBS till the mammoth 3 Idiots . Trade experts peg Hirani's fees at Rs 15 crore plus at least 25 percent of the revenue the film earns.
Writers : Abhijat Joshi, with help from Rajkumar Hirani, salvaged the position of good writers. He's the highest paid writer on the block with his paycheck bulked up to Rs 3 crore after 3 Idiots .
Production designers : This pack is clearly led by Nitin Chandrakant Desai. His fee alone is at least a crore; in addition he recommends his own ND studio, the rent of which of course, is earned separately.
Close behind is Sabu Cyril, whose take home too is over Rs 75 lakh. Cinematographers : Ravi K Chandran earned over Rs 1 crore for SRK's RA.
One . This fee may be justified by the fact that the movie cost about Rs 150 crore to make.
In the same league is Binod Pradhan, who shot films like Devdas, Rang De Basanti , but was paid a fee of Rs 1.5 crore for South star Pavan Kalyan's Puli .
"What is amazing that Binod had signed the package deal of Rs 4 crore for cinematography, including fees of his assistants," reveals a source. It is learnt that Pradhan has acquired a high-end camera and henceforth will shoot only on it.
"So now he will also charge the rent for the equipment," pointed out our source. Music composers : Without doubt, A R Rahman features on top.
The Oscar winner earns Rs 5-8 crore per film, which also include his fees for creating the background score. Pritam comes second, with about Rs 3 crore per film.
"And that works out at Rs 25 lakh per song, including fees for the singers, studio rentals etc," says our source. Sound designers : Thanks to the Oscar award, Resul Pokuttu beats everyone else in this department.
He is said to charge Rs 50 lakh per film. He also earns through rent of his studio, as he doesn't like working in any other studio.
Action directors : Though a considerable amount of the budget is set aside for an action film, the men who call the shots are paid comparatively lesser. However, they make up for it in the daily expenses, reveal our sources.
South based Peter Hein and Allan Amin, who directed the thrills for the Dhoom series, are the most expensive in their domain. They charge Rs 30 lakh per film, but to shoot with them costs an additional Rs 2.
5 lakh upwards per day for the harnesses, cables and other equipment. Choreographers : Farah Khan and Remo D'Souza, are among the highest paid choreographers along with Ganesh Hegde and Vaibhavi Merchant.
Sources peg their fees (per song) at a minimum of Rs 25 lakh, going up to Rs 50 lakh. Editors : Production sources swear by Shreekar Prasad, who edited films like Raavan , National Award winning Tamil film Kutty Shrank, Kaminey , etc.
He's believed to charge Rs 25 lakh per film, plus another R 8 lakh to cut the promos. Lyricists : Javed Akhtar takes the credit as he's said to charge Rs 10 lakh per song.
Not far behind is Prasoon Joshi, who's believed to demand Rs 8 lakh per number. Playback singers : Sonu Niigam makes the most among the male playback singers, earning a cool Rs 10 lakhs per song.
Among the females, Sunidhi Chauhan and Shreya Ghoshal rule the roost, making Rs 2.5 lakh per song.
"And of course, the singers make extra moolah by singing those songs in shows." Tweet
(less)Salman Khan in Kanchana
Also, Salman had opted out of the film, as he decided to do Dookodu instead. However, a source informed us that the film has now been taken over by Sahara One Motion Pictures.
According to the source the production company has approached Salman to play the lead in the film. The source explained, "Salman was extremely keen to remake the film with Sohail.
However, since the original director of Kanchana, Lawrence Raghuvendra, wanted to direct the Hindi version as well, the plan to remake the film was put on hold. But now Sahara One Motion Pictures has taken over the project.
" When contacted Vikram Singh , advisor project development of Sahara One Motion Pictures said, "Kanchana was made in Tamil and dubbed in Telegu. Sohail bhai liked it and I showed the film to Arbaaz bhai.
Lawrence sir, the director of the film, asked me to accompany him during the screening, as I'm working with him on his next film. I was keen to have Salman bhai play the lead role.
I myself saw Kanchana thrice, but nothing has been finalised yet. I would love if Sahara produces it and Salman bhai acts in it.
We are constantly in touch with Arbaaz bhai and Lawrence sir and so, we will take a decision very soon."
(less)DAM 999 released in 550 cinema houses in India
In Kerala, the film is being shown in 50 theatres. The Tamil Nadu government had banned the movie yesterday amid mounting political pressure, saying its title refers to the Mullaperiyar dam row between the state and Kerala.
The government said that its release could disturb cordial ties between the two states and create law and order problem. Debutant director Sohan Roy, who plans to move the Supreme Court against the ban had termed it as "totally unfortunate.
" He said the film is based on real life incidents, bringing to life memories of the 1975 Banqiao dam disaster in China, which killed an estimated 2.5 lakh people.
"Shot in a single start-to-end schedule DAM 999 has 16 national and international award-winning cast and crew," he said. DAM 999 is about a corrupt mayor who builds a new dam for political gains, a mariner desperate to save his sister from evil, two lovers, a woman on a mission to win her family back, a little boy battling a deadly disease, a devoted wife wanting to be with her husband even in death and an astrologer who has foreseen their fate -- nine lives entwined by the impending disaster.
The multi starer, released in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam along with English, has been produced by UAE based BizTV Networks. The ban came even as Tamil Nadu and Kerala are locked in a war of words over the 116-year-old dam, which Kerala wants brought down to build a new one while Tamil Nadu opposes it.
The dam in Idukki district of Kerala is under Tamil Nadu's control and meets irrigation needs of farmers in Southern districts. Tweet
(less)Sivaji changed my life completely: Shriya Saran
It did give me a lot of respect. It did open a lot of doors for me.
Deepa Mehta saw me in Sivaji and took me for Cooking With Stella and again in Midnight's Children . A lot of Hindi movie directors approached me after Sivaji ," said 29-year-old Shriya Saran.
The 2007 movie that had superstar Rajinikanth in the title role was one of the top earners of the year. Though she has made it big in southern cinema, Shriya is still struggling for name and fame in Bollywood and her last Hindi release was 2009 movie Ek: The Power of One .
After a three-year break, she will be seen in a Hindi movie titled Gali Gali Shor Hai which she said "is a political satire. It's not that we are slapping the system.
It's just that we are trying to bring a change." Shriya has teamed up with Mugdha Godse and Akshaye Khanna in Gali Gali Shor Hai , which is hitting screens Feb 3.
"Don't know whether it's a comeback or a long gap, but when I am doing a Telugu film people often ask me, 'Why aren't you doing Tamil films? When I am doing a Tamil film, they ask me why aren't you doing Hindi films. It was never a conscious effort.
I would like to do Hindi films as I am comfortable talking in Hindi," she said. Not only Hindi, she speaks other languages effortlessly.
"Hindi comes naturally to me because it's my mother tongue. Of course, even English! Telugu I have learnt and it is my third language.
I have also learnt Tamil but Malayalam is difficult." She may be working with people from different culture, background and languages, but the actress feels there is no cultural difference when it comes to work.
"Language changes with people, language changes with the sense of humour. The way stories are told changes.
The story said in Telugu will be different, Malayalam will be different and Hindi will be different. But the work culture doesn't really depend on the industry; it depends on the director you work with.
It depends on the people working on the film," Shriya stated. She would love to do more and more films, but remakes do not excite her so much.
"I don't enjoy remakes so much. I mean I am not sure whether I would be interested in remaking my own film.
Sometimes when story is changed and done well, then it's fantastic like Ghajini and Bodyguard . Dabangg and 3 Idiots have been remade in Tamil.
Story line should be changed in remakes," she said. Tweet
(less)RA.One collects Rs.170 crores over the weekend
170 crore worldwide in the opening weekend. The superstar is congratulating his business partners on the superhero's box office success.
Eros International Media Ltd (Eros International) released the collection report stating that the film has got a record breaking opening--the highly anticipated Diwali collected of Rs. 137.
25 crore (net collection Rs. 96 crore) in India and Rs.
32.75 crore overseas.
Apart from this, Shah Rukh Khan had reportedly sold the satellite rights for Rs.37 crore, the music rights for Rs.
8 crore and ancillary rights for Rs.10 crore even before the film had hit the screens.
"As always, my heart doesn't crunch numbers and heroes don't count zeros..
.but it's nice to know how RA.
One is flying," he further tweeted. "Ga Ga ooh la la.
..
Ra Ra Ra.One.
Thrilled with response. Congratulations to my business partners.
" Made at a budget of Rs.150 crore, the film, described as best in terms of technology, opened across more than 4,000 plus screens worldwide--3,100 plus screens in India and 904 prints internationally, including 3D and has become the biggest Hindi grosser in southern market too.
" RA.One released to packed houses across the country on Diwali day and has already created history by taking over the mantle of the biggest domestic earner so far.
|The film continues to be on its record breaking spree with several new achievements since its release. It has touched the highest individual collection in circuits such as Mumbai, Delhi, Punjab and Rajasthan," Nandu Ahuja, senior vice president, distribution, Eros International Media Ltd said in a statement.
"We see repeat viewings of the movie with the 3-D version being equally sought after. With the Eid holiday also coming up next week and no other major film release, we are anticipating the film to continue doing huge numbers," he added.
Speaking on the film's overseas performance, Pranab Kapadia, president, distribution, Eros International, said: "The film is enjoying a superb run across all major regions including UK, North America, Europe, Australia and the Middle East. "Overseas, the film has broken SRK's own previous first weekend record established by My Name Is Khan and occupies the position of biggest Indian first weekend grosser overseas as well.
" Eros plans to take the film to non-traditional markets-- RA.One is scheduled for theatrical release in the first quarter of 2012 across several territories including South Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Russia , Lebanon, Jordan, Syria and Palestine, Brazil, Spain, Italy and Greece .
Directed by Anubhav Sinha, RA.One saw the King Khan as G.
One along with Arjun Rampal as RA.One and Kareena Kapoor.
Though the critics didn't give it a thumbs up, the film's visual effects and state of the art production techniques have set a new standard in the Indian film industry. Tweet
(less)Piracy check for Bodyguard
This essentially means that in no way can anyone illegally copy the movie. And as far as physical piracy (pirated DVDs) is concerned, the movie's team is conducting across all known piracy hubs in the country, including Delhi's notorious Palika Bazaar.
The movie's producer Atul Agnihotri told DT, "We have found a few thousand jackets of the movie that have already been printed and realised that this can kill the prospect of a movie. Therefore, the step to nip piracy in the bud was imperative.
" Sanjay Tandon, VP, anti piracy at Reliance Entertainment, agreed with Agnihotri and told us, "We've taken a pre-emptive measure by getting this order. While we know of certain entities that do this, we do not know of many others who indulge in such acts.
This order ensures that whenever we catch someone, we don't have to get into the rigmarole of filing a civil case. We can simply seek punishment, which ranges between one week to three years of imprisonment, along with fine ranging between `50,000 and `2,00,000.
" Earlier too, Reliance had sought the same order during the release of the Ajay Devgn starrer "Singham", with a view to minimise losses through piracy. Says Tandon, "In the case of "Singham", it was pirated 40% less than it would have been, had we not taken the order.
For "Bodyguard", we are hoping to cut down piracy by 50-60%. Piracy cannot be eradicated, but it certainly can be curtailed.
For the same reason, we are conducting extensive raids across the country at known piracy hubs." The step taken by the producers of "Bodyguard" comes in the wake of the severe piracy that has impacted Bollywood in recent times.
Unofficial figures estimate the worth of the industry at `4,000 crore. To deal with it, last year, director Sajid Khan had announced that his movie "Housefull" was being released with an in-built anti-piracy software.
Anti-piracy raids were also conducted at the time of the release of "I Hate Luv Storys", since the movie lost `20 lakh to piracy in its opening weekend
(less)Don 2 to release in 41 countries
"Learnt yesterday that Don 2 will release in 41 countries worldwide. Wow!! I guess that's the number of countries now out to catch him!!," Farhan wrote on twitter.
Don 2 will release in UK two days before its December 23 opening in India and the rest of the world. "Feel so proud to see the extent to which interest in Hindi movies has grown.
. Thanks to you.
. the Fans (pat yourself on back moment)," Farhan said.
The film is set to release on 23 December, in both 2D and 3D formats and will also be available in Tamil and Telugu. Tweet
(less)Bollywood went from gloom to glory, singing 'Ooh la la'
6 million)-mark in 2011. And, sure enough, a pot of gold lay at the end of the rainbow year thanks to the "real hero" Vidya Balan.
Bollywood rediscovered hits with "Bodyguard", " Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara", "Ready", "Singham" and "Ra.One" this year.
According to Box Office India, while Salman Khan's "Bodyguard" and "Ready" collected Rs.229 crore and Rs.
179 crore respectively, multi-starrer "Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara" raked in Rs.152 crore.
Ajay Devgn's "Singham" joined the jakpot with Rs.139-crore earnings.
Made at a budget of over Rs.60 crore, Ranbir Kapoor-starrer " Rockstar" is expected to earn Rs.
105 crore while Shah Rukh Khan's "Ra.One", the first of its kind in terms of technological use, pocketed Rs.
240 crore. "It has been a very positive year.
..
this year has proved fruitful with more hits than last year," film historian S.M.
M. Ausaja told IANS.
It won't be wrong to say that the Vidya- and Rani Mukerji-starrer "No One Killed Jessica" - the first big release of the year - turned out to be the lucky mascot. Based on the Jessica Lall murder case, it brought the masses and classes to the theatres and the footfalls did not stop thereafter.
Made at a budget of Rs.10 crore, it grossed Rs.
49 crore. 2011 can also be called Vidya's year.
She came dancing on "Ooh la la" as the sex symbol Silk Smitha in "The Dirty Picture" and rocked the box office. The film earned rave reviews and earned Rs.
66 crore net in the first 11 days. The joyride wasn't for biggies alone; small fry too cruised happily side by side.
The approximate earnings of "Yamla Pagla Deewana", "Tanu Weds Manu", and "Delhi Belly" were Rs.87 crore, 54.
50 crore and Rs.89.
50 crore respectively, while their budgets were Rs.26 crore, Rs.
17.5 crore and Rs.
25 crore respectively. Also "Chalo Dilli", "7 Khoon Maaf", "Shor in the City" and "Force" walked away with critical acclaim.
The content of "Stanley Ka Dabba" and "Pyaar Ka Punchnama" too got a thumbs up. "Small budget films doing well at the box office is another good sign, as at least new producers and directors will get motivated.
People used to be scared of making such films because there was no audience. But the audiences have opened up and they are largely appreciating the content," said Ausaja.
"Films like 'No One Killed Jessica' or 'Delhi Belly' are niche films and their star value has added to the saleability. It's nice to see that people are experimenting and their experiments are reaping benefits at the box office," said film critic Omar Qureshi.
In between, the box-office journey was impeded by the poor response to "Patiala House", "Game" and "Dum Maaro Dum", but only temporarily. The industry witnessed many changes this year - extensive use of technology, the focus on weekend collections and aggressiveness in film promotion.
"The business no longer spreads across 25 weeks. It has come down to weekends and I would say that this year's movies have been able to capture the weekend very well.
No movie gives you enough time. It just dazzles you.
It is either good or bad," said Qureshi. Ausaja pointed out that the revenue expanded because "marketing and promotion tactics turned aggressive.
Then there are so many mediums available - whether it is the internet, mobile or television. The number of screens has increased.
" Filmmakers adopted macro marketing devices like live concerts and travelling to two-tier and three-tier cities to create awareness about their films. "Marketing plays a crucial role in telling the audience what a film stands for.
The strategies have indeed changed. We have now moved away from a micro-marketing approach," said Priti Shahani, chief strategy and marketing officer, Reliance Entertainment.
"It is important to have a consistency between content and communication for the audience. Connecting with the audience is of paramount importance.
We now release films on as many as 2,000 screens and it becomes important to get the audience," he added. There were moments of sorrow and pain when luminaries like Shammi Kapoor and Dev Anand bid their final adieu.
Filmdom also halted to mourn the death of Jagmohan Mundhra, Jagjit Singh, Bhupen Hazarika, Manish Acharya and Gautam Rajadhyaksha. "Don 2 - The King Is Back" will be the last big release of the year and trade analysts are optimistic that the box office will reach its zenith with it
(less)Don 2 rings in over Rs.48 crore on opening weekend
Director Farhan Akthar thanks fans for making it a hit. "Thank you all.
. our film has taken a super start and your support has everything to do with it.
..
Thanks for the incredible feedback on the film. We're glad to have entertained you.
..
Do keep it coming..
.," tweeted Farhan.
Made at a budget of about Rs.75 crore and shot in exotic locales in Malaysia and Germany, the film earned Rs.
15.30 crore Friday, Rs.
15.09 crore Saturday and approximately Rs.
18 crore Sunday, making a grand total of Rs.48.
39 crore. The opening day earnings are said to be the highest first-day collection on a non-holiday Friday.
"We are very happy with the response that the film has got so far in domestic as well as international markets. It has had a record opening on a non-holiday Friday and the word of mouth response is also good," Reliance Entertainment CEO Sanjeev Lamba told IANS.
A sequel to 2006 movie, the last big release of the year has reportedly earned Rs.37 crore by selling the satellite rights to Zee TV.
Directed by Farhan Akhtar, it has other big names like Priyanka Chopra, Lara Dutta, Boman Irani and Kunal Kapoor. In the overseas market, the film has grossed more than Rs.
26 crore till Saturday. "The USP of the film is that it is a sequel to an already established film and it has a completely new style as well as story.
Moreover, it is a Shah Rukh Khan film. The film is not only being appreciated across the country, but also in the international markets like North America, Britian and Australia," he added.
The film released in both 2D and 3D formats. Although the screens for 3D were less, Lamba says response has met with their expectation.
"Considering the few number of screens that we have here for 3D the response has been equally good as 2D," he said. The occupancy in theatres has been around 90 percent, says Munish Sharma, general manager (marketing) Satyam.
"It has been a very good weekend. The occupancy stayed around 90 percent.
Although people are appreciating the content, some feel that the first half of the film is a little stretched compared to the second. But the film is likely to end 2011 on a good note," said Sharma.
Yogesh Raizada of Waves Cinemas predicts good second week for Don 2 in the absence of a big release before Players , which is coming out Jan 6. "We see a mix of young and family crowd.
The film will do a good business in the second week also as there is no strong film slated for release next week," he said. Tweet
(less)Not cashing on success of south remakes in B/wd: Gautham Menon
But it does not mean that if south film remakes are doing well so I am here or it is the right time for me to make a film in Hindi. I have already made Ek Deewana Tha in Tamil and Telugu and it did well.
I was always looking to do this film in Hindi..
.I thought it would be universally appealing," Gautham told PTI in an interview.
"It took us some time to come up with the Hindi version as we had pre-production work - planning dialogues to getting dates of Prateik. Since February 2010, we wanted to do this film much before the hindi version of Bodyguard, Ready and Singham came out and became hits," he said.
Tweet
(less)SRK wants Ra.One to surpass recent Box Office hits
Hinting at the success witnessed by the movies of his friend-turned-foe Salman Khan, SRK said although he is not competing with anyone he would still like for his movie to rise to those heights. "Every film has its own space.
I am happy that in the recent past there are three or four films which have done great business. When it comes to box office, I hope even my film is good enough.
We hope we will be able to touch the success of those films," Shah Rukh told reporters. Ra.
One is superhero film directed by Anubhav Sinha, starring SRK, Kareena Kapoor and Arjun Rampal in lead roles. It is the most expensive film till date and will be released in 3D format worldwide, along with its dubbed versions in Tamil, Telugu and German.
"When I started making this film it was a very expensive proposition but I thank all our partners not for the money that they have put in but for the belief that they have shown towards this film. And to recover the money the film will have to do business that has never been done before.
The business exists..
.the return exists," he said.
The film releases on October 26. Tweet
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