Aug 112017
 

Akshay KumarAkshay Kumar

Now that his film, Toilet: Ek Prem Katha has released, Akshay Kumar is gearing up for the shoot of his TV show, The Great Indian Laughter Challenge.

He will be shooting today for a promo at Mehboob Studios. As the super judge, he will choose the best stand up comedian. Known to be a morning person, he was keen the shoot start by 9am, if not earlier.

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Aug 112017
 

It looks like the entertainment industry can finally relax as Pahlaj Nihalani’s sanskari reign has come to an end. Nihalani’s tenure was a dark era for Bollywood and people’s artistic liberty suffered, because of his famous cuts. However, it’s time to rejoice. The Central Board of Film Certification has finally sacked Pahlaj Nihalani and way too many people are already celebrating this golden day.

11th August 2017, will go down in history books as the day Bollywood was liberated from sanskari Nihalani’s reign of terror. CBFC has finally given an ‘A’ certificate (A = axed) to Nihalani.

And now, famous lyricist and poet Prasoon Joshi will take the mantle. Many are optimistic about this change and feel Joshi is the right successor.

#BREAKING | #PahlajNihalani removed as #CBFC chief. Prasoon Joshi takes charge pic.twitter.com/1m0eK2sK7H

— EconomicTimes (@EconomicTimes) August 11, 2017

From treating the CBFC like his personal territory to asking for irrational cuts and imposing his sense of ethics and morals on the Hindi film industry, Nihalani was constantly in the line of fire. Clearly, he didn’t understand that his job was only to certify a film.

For people who are late, Nihalani has been in news for creating various issues while certifying various film. Be it Madhur Bhandarkar’s ‘Indu Sarkaar’ or Shah Rukh Khan’s ‘Jab Harry Met Sejal’, he had issues with the content, scenes, and words being used in the film. He kicked off the biggest controversy when he refused to certify “Lipstick Under My Burqa”, which talks about female sexuality and desire, calling it a “lady-oriented” film. Very recently he ordered 48 cuts in Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Bidita Bag starrer ‘Babumoshai Bandookbaaz’.

Now that the news of Nihalani being sacked is out, the Indian internet can’t keep clam and is already celebrating the decision. Check out the reactions here:

Replacing #PahlajNihalani with #PrasoonJoshi is swapping uncool with cool, silliness with brains. Hope Smriti Irani will overhaul system now

— Abhijit Majumder (@abhijitmajumder) August 11, 2017

#PahlajNihalani replaced by Prasoon Joshi as the Censor Board Chief.

Anurag Kashyap right now: pic.twitter.com/XAmKIm1pp3

— Sand-d Singh (@Sand_In_Deed) August 11, 2017

Yes yes yes finally the dark times for Indian entertainment is over #PahlajNihalani is finally GONE!!
Prasoon Joshi, high hopes from you

— Sharanya Narayanan (@iamsharz) August 11, 2017

Indian Film Industry right now. #PahlajNihalani pic.twitter.com/5suwLRZohz

— Nikhil Wad (@nikhilswad) August 11, 2017

Finally, flowers won’t have to touch each each other for the sex that humans have. #PahlajNihalaniSacked #PahlajNihalani Pahlaj Nihalani

— Mihir Ved (@itsmihir1993) August 11, 2017

#PahlajNihalani : cut this scene.

Everyone : ab tu cut le.

— RoAdSiDe BaBa (@Roadside_Monk) August 11, 2017

#PahlajNihalani  aka #SanskariNihalani sacked as the CBFC chief. Great positive move. To be replaced by @prasoonjoshi_
Kudos � pic.twitter.com/rwUBWy0RgI

— Sarthak Sahu (@sarthak9394) August 11, 2017

Pahlaj Nihalini is gone. Producers to shell out more for marketing of their movie. Free ki publicity khatam. #SanskariNihalani

— Shareq Inamdar (@itssrq) August 11, 2017

While some ain’t happy with the replacement:

Prasoon Joshi has pretty problematic views on freedom of speech by the way.  #PahlajNihalani #CBFC

— Zico Ghosh (@zico_gh0sh) August 11, 2017

Aug 112017
 

 

Pahlaj Nihalani, who treated the Censor Board as his personal fiefdom has finally been shown the door and will be replaced by adman, Prasoon Joshi. The controversial filmmaker used the Censor Board to propagate his own agendas and was always panned for his regressive views. Several films had been at the receiving end of his moral policing. Amongst those which, Pahlaj refused to certify was, ‘Udta Punjab’, ‘Lipstick Under My Burkha’, ‘KA Bodyscapes’, etc. He used to ask the directors to edit out crucial scenes and dialogues in the films, under the garb of ‘providing wholesome family entertainment’.

If sources are to be believed then Prasoon Joshi will soon be taking over as the new Censor Board chief.

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Aug 112017
 

Iulia Vantur, Salman Khan and Katrina KaifIulia Vantur, Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif

Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif are currently filming the final schedule of Tiger Zinda Hai in Abu Dhabi.

Interestingly, Khan’s rumoured ladylove Iulia Vantur has joined the duo on set and will stay there till the schedule ends in September.

While one would think of an obvious friction between Vantur and Khan’s ex-flame Kaif, they apparently share a close bond. The ladies spend time with each other and chat for hours between shots, we are told.

Also see: Who was Sitaram Panchal? The tragic story of actor who died
Who was Sitaram Panchal? The tragic story of actor who died

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Aug 112017
 

Superstar Amitabh Bachchan, who has wrapped up a tough, demanding schedule for Yash Raj Films’ mega flick ‘Thugs of Hindostan’ at Malta recently, shows what it takes to define professionalism and passion for cinema during this shoot. 

Mr Bachchan had wrapped up his portions and was all set to fly out after an extra day’s work when a shooting pain in his lower back kept growing exponentially. Filming for the action scenes in Malta for Thugs of Hindostan had actually resulted in a minor injury for the mega star. He cracked his upper left rib but continued to work despite excruciating pain. Given that the film’s shoot was working to a tight schedule, he continued to shoot, dealing with this pain. Which is why, on the last day, writer and director of Thugs of Hindostan Vijay Krishna Acharya wanted to avoid shooting given the pain Big B was facing. But instead, Mr Bachchan chose to complete the shoot. “To me, having Mr Bachchan on set, for ‘Thugs of Hindostan’ was an extra ordinary experience in itself. I have grown up idolising him and am an absolute fan of his 70s films like ‘Deewar’. That he would have to deal with pain had me worried. I had offered to reschedule the last day’s shoot but he insisted on completing these portions and actually did a fine job! The kind of professional focus, commitment and sheer love for cinema he has is quite unmatched. I am overwhelmed, as is the unit that also worked at 100 percent to make this day’s work easier.”

It was only on his return to Mumbai that an MRI was done on doctor’s orders, and the source of this terrible pain was found. Despite a cracked rib, Amitabh Bachchan continued to focus on the film’s shoot and push himself. Not many in the world of cinema anywhere can match up to his professionalism, one that leaves a lasting impression on his crews forever.

An entertainer that deals with a period of adventure and action on the high seas, ‘Thugs of Hindostan’ has been partially shot on two massive ships put up on the coast of Malta, Europe. An imaginative journey, this mega flick co-stars Aamir Khan with Amitabh Bachchan for the first time ever and also features Katrina Kaif and Fatima Sana Shaikh.

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Aug 112017
 

When you think of Jim Carrey, the first things that come to mind are his extremely expressive face and his incredible comic timing. With iconic comedy movies like Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, The Mask and Dumb and Dumber, and hits like The Truman Show or Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, he has proved his versatility as an actor time and again. 

But, after having some time away from the limelight, Carrey has returned, this time with a serious documentary showcasing his alternate persona of a painter.

Jim Carrey's New Documentary Chronicles His Journey As A Painter© Jim Carrey

The short documentary film, called ‘I Needed Color’, has been directed by David Bushell, and takes us on his journey as a painter. The film shows Carrey in his home painting on a canvas, while narrating how he developed his talent for imagery and colours.

Jim Carrey's New Documentary Chronicles His Journey As A Painter© Jim Carrey

In the voiceover for the documentary, Carrey says, “When I really started painting a lot, I had become so obsessed that there was nowhere to move in my home. Paintings were everywhere.

“It began on a bleak winter day in New York when I looked around and it got depressing for me. It was then that I thought ‘I needed color’.”

Jim Carrey's New Documentary Chronicles His Journey As A Painter© Jim Carrey

He shows off the several ways he creates art – heavy and measured brushstrokes, modelling clay, scraping paint off of canvases, and then pouring paint directly on them. Just like any artist, he’s trying to bring his thoughts, inner darkness and desires to life with his art, and, in his case, it’s quite vivid.

Jim Carrey's New Documentary Chronicles His Journey As A Painter© Jim Carrey

According to him, painting is very freeing for him. He said, “Free from the future, free from the past, free from regret, free from worry.”

The 6-minute-long film ends with Carrey saying, “I love being alive and the art is the evidence of that.”

Watch the whole thing here: 

Jim Carrey: I Needed Color from JC on Vimeo.

Aug 112017
 

He surprised everyone with his awesome performance in ‘Thor’ and the ‘Avengers’. And, there is literally no one who doesn’t love him. Well, Chris Hemsworth is undoubtedly amazing, a fabulous actor and a heartthrob to boot. Is there anything this man can’t do?

The Hollywood and Aussie hunk has been in some excellent films, proving his versatility as an actor. The ‘Thor’ star is surely a super busy man these days as his latest film ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ is set to hit theatres in November! And, we can’t wait. 

However, as the actor turns 34 today, we’ve compiled a list of some his most brilliant performances for y’all!

1. Star Trek (2009)

This popular reboot of one of the most popular science fiction franchises ever didn’t just kick start Chris’s career but he also managed to grab several eyeballs. Starring in a small yet a pivotal role as George Samuel Kirk (James’ father), he not just opens up the film but sets the whole story in motion. His aura and performance as a heroic father figure is so moving that you understand why Kirk wants to fulfil what his father wanted. 

2. A Perfect Getaway (2009) 

Well, this film didn’t really make it big in Hollywood but certainly gave Chris the presence he needed to prove his acting skills. In the film, he plays a Kale, a young hitchhiker who is accused of murder by a couple. Despite his limited screen presence, he was bright enough to get noticed and the rest is history. 

3. Thor (2011)

Best known for his role as the Marvel Comics superhero Thor, people went gaga over his performance. He and Tom Hiddleston, who ultimately played Loki, both had auditioned for the role. Just wondering would we want anyone else except Hemsworth playing this character? In 2012 he reprised his role again as Thor in The Avengers as one of the six superheroes and yet again impressed viewers. 

4. Snow White and the Huntsman (2012)

This wasn’t your normal fairytale. ‘Snow White and the Huntsman’ took a more sinister look inside the life of the raven haired princess. Pretty interesting, isn’t it? Donning Eric’s character, whose task is to murder Snow White (Kristen Stewart), he was equally scary and caring. His performance was loved by the critics, who didn’t love the film as much. 

5. The Cabin in the Woods (2012)

This film was a very different gig from his previous roles. The plot revolves arund four young adults who face unspeakable horrors on a weekend getaway. As Curt, he did a terrific job and many won’t believe it but this film’s got a cult following as well. 

6. Rush (2013)

This film, based on a true story, is worth a watch. The movie depicts the true rivalry between Formula One drivers Niki Lauda and James Hunt, where Hemsworth plays the latter character and garnered positive reviews for his performance. 

7. Thor: Ragnarok

This list couldn’t have been completed without mentioning this film. Yeah, we know the film is yet to be released but when he effortlessly entertained us in ‘Thor’, we are sure as shit that he will do the same this time as well. And he’s teaming up with the Hulk! The HULK!

Aug 112017
 

Narendra-HirawatShah Rukh Khan suffered a blow with his last release, Jab Harry Met Sejal turning out to be a box-office turkey. Six weeks before the release of Khan’s love story, his friend Salman Khan, too, lost his Midas touch as the much anticipated Tubelight failed to set the cash registers ringing upon release.

While both Khans are reeling under the setback, the biggest victim has been distributor Narendra Hirawat of NH Studioz. Rumours suggest he lost almost Rs 60 crore over the failure of the two projects.

Hirawat, who had bagged the all-India distribution rights of Tubelight, was in for a rude shock when the film did not recreate the magic of previous Salman movies. While Salim Khan had promised to compensate the distributors who suffered a setback, Hirawat denied receiving any compensation.

Speaking to mid-day, he said, “We haven’t received any money from Salman Khan. All these reports about distributors receiving money, are false.”

However, Hirawat is confident that Salim Khan will honour his word. “I have worked with them many times and we have always been on good terms. Salim saab has promised to compensate us for the loss. I’m confident they will do it. Whenever it happens, I will inform everyone about it.”

When asked if he expects a similar move from Shah Rukh Khan, he said, “The movie has not lived up to the expectations, because of which we have suffered a huge loss. Like Salman, I have worked with Shah Rukh in the past too. He is a nice person. I hope we get some kind of compensation for Jab Harry Met Sejal too, but it is all up to them [the producers]. As of now, there hasn’t been any word on it.”

We reached out to Salim Khan, who asserted that Salman Khan Films will soon provide the compensation, as promised. The celebrated screenwriter said, “Ek baar jo humne commitment kar di hai, toh woh patthar ki lakeer hai. We haven’t returned the money yet, as it takes time to calculate the amount. Many people are involved, so, it can’t be done overnight. We will definitely return the money.”

Aug 112017
 

Ranbir-Rishi-AnuragWhatever Rishi Kapoor said was just to protect him, feels Ranbir Kapoor in regard to his father’s criticism on his recent release, Jagga Jasoos.

“My father is an emotional man. I think he was only protecting me,” Ranbir said at the trailer launch of Sanjay Dutt’s comeback film Bhoomi yesterday, when asked what he thinks of his father’s take on his recently released Anurag Basu-directorial.

He added, “I don’t necessarily agree with what he said. We worked on Jagga Jasoos for three years and we knew what we were doing and how it was being made. Sometimes you succeed, sometimes you fail. I don’t look at it as failure. I look at it as a learning experience. I cannot answer for somebody else, but I don’t necessarily agree with anybody else.”

In an interview with mid day, the 64-year-old had slammed Basu for being irresponsible with the film.

Soon after the release of Jagga Jasoos, that didn’t fare well at the box office, the veteran actor had said that even after three years of making, the film was incomplete and that Basu was cutting it even two days before the release.

Aug 112017
 

ranbir_sanjayActor Ranbir Kapoor, who was present at Sanjay Dutt’s ‘Bhoomi’ trailer launch, revealed that he had approached the star for a guest appearance in his first production venture – ‘Jagga Jasoos’. Speaking at the event, Ranbir said, “I think every role written in the film industry goes to him first. It passes through him and then it filters down. It was my first production. It was a special appearance and we wanted to carry it in the second part. Anurag Basu (director) and I thought there was nobody better than Sanju sir to play the part.”

He further added, “The first time he (Dutt) heard it, he gladly agreed to do it. But there were some issues with the release of his first film. So, I thought may be the next time.”

Nonetheless, Nawazuddin Siddiqui gladly stepped in to play the part in the musical which also starred Katrina Kaif in the leading role.
Ranbir will be seen essaying Sanjay Dutt in the actor’s upcoming biopic helmed by Rajkumar Hirani, that is slated to release on March 30, 2018.