Special Chabbis, Shootout At Wadala And ABCD-Any Body Can Dance Movie Poster

The filmmakers have done it in the past and are back at it again. One of the latest strategies to attract the younger brigade, to sound hip and cool and to generate that extra amount of interest in the viewers, the cinema makers tend to name their creations in a language with which the Generation Y can easily connect.

There are a few makers like Imtiaz Ali who barring Socha Na Tha, has tried this formula on almost all the movies, be it Jab We Met, Rockstar or Love Aaj Kal. Imtiaz Ali was the writer for Cocktail and is currently busy shooting for his ‘emotionally charged, physically strenuous’ – Highway, slated to release by the end of the year.

Go Goa Gone, Desi Boyz And Mere Brother Ki Dilhan Movie Poster

In recent history there have been films like: Go Goa Gone, Mere Dad Ki Maruti, Commando, Bombay Talkies, Mujhse Fraandship Karoge, Desi Boyz, Ladies v/s Ricky Bahl, Mere Brother Ki Dulhan, who have tried cashing on this formula. In fact more than half of the mainstream releases this year have had a similar connection.

Hum Hain Raahi Car Ke And Ishq in Paris Movie Poster

And in store this week are a flight of flicks on the same thread, be it – 3rd in the lineage, Dev Goel’s Hum Hain Raahi Car Ke, Veena Mallik-Riya Sen’s Zindagi 50 : 50 or the much delayed PZNZ’s Ishkq in Paris. Preity Zinta’s comeback home production movie was ready almost half a year ago but was in limbo after Director Prem Raj Soni was diagnosed with Cancer and had to undergo a surgery. The movie also stars Rhehan Malliek and two-time Oscar nominee French actress Isabelle Adjani.

Ugly, Shortcut Romeo, And D-Day Movie Poster

Other than these, Ankur Arora Murder Case, Shortcut Romeo, B.A.Pass, Nikhil Advani’s much talked about- Rishi Kapoor starrer D-Day, Shaadi Ke Side Effects, Kashyap’s Cannes premiered Ugly, Bombay Velvet etc. are some other notable movies that follow the paved path.

Gangs of Wasseypur And Shor in the City Movie Poster

Just like the movies, the titles also reflect the socio-economic revolution, and the gradual change that reflects the audiences’ sensibility. Actually, to a certain extent it makes sense, with Bollywood going international and as the chunk of movies based on the ‘Youth’ increase, there is definitely a race to grab the maximum eyeballs and a cheeky title, helps. Take for example Shor in the City, a la remembrance of Sex in the City! Gangs of Wasseypur, somewhere inspired from the Gangs of New York title. It’s the title that matters too along with the script and stars.

As long as the movies do well and generate that initial buzz the Hinglish titles are here to stay.

P.S: For that matter, even Akon croons for you every time in usual baritone – ‘Wanna be my Chammak Challo ?’. And ya, the Zombie Killer – Borris also has a Delhi heart. Point taken?

Setting up Illuminati films with Dinesh Vijan, who had earlier produced his English film Being Cyrus, the production house created for itself a distinct space in the cinematic sensibilities of the audiences. As Illuminati’s next Go Goa Gone is scheduled to hit the theatres tomorrow, Koimoi traces the Box Office journey of Saif Ali Khan as a producer and whether Go Goa Gone is an apt successor of his distinguishable idea of cinema.

Love Aaj Kal (2009)

Love Aaj Kal Movie Poster

Exploring a newfangled perspective on love, how its notion has altered over the years, and where it stands in contemporary times, this venture from Imtiaz Ali was a sharp take on devaluation of romance in the new age era. Love Aaj Kal was a smartly made film that alternates between past and present making the differences of the times rather starkly visible. Saif Ali Khan along with Dinesh Vijan helmed the production and the film’s script along with a wonderfully designed publicity management ensured it was a superhit, making a business of 67 crores at the India Box Office. The film scored as one of the year’s biggest hits only after 3 Idiots which turned out to be the biggest money spinner of 2009.

Agent Vinod (2012)

Agent Vinod Movie Poster

Attempting to give India its very own James Bond, Agent Vinod was a damp squib as it largely failed to recreate anything remotely close to the colossal stature of a suave secret agent. The film despite trying to cash in the glittering chemistry of the real life couple Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor, did not show an exceedingly promising growth at the box office. Cumulatively raking up an average sum of 44.06 crores, the film failed to attain the hilt of excitement it had drawn out for itself.

Cocktail (2012)

Cocktail Movie Poster

Teaming up with Homi Adajania, with whom Saif had previously worked in Being Cyrus, Cocktail came across as a gusty romantic tale. Revolving around the lives of three friends, critics lauded the well etched out roles of its female protagonist. Starring Deepika Padukone and Diana Penty along with Saif in lead roles, the film’s flat premise did not have an overwhelming impact. However, Deepika’s impeccable portrayal of ‘Veronica’ with vigor and strength nails as the film’s stronghold. The film’s collections however remained steady all through its hilt period and finally zeroed on 76 crores making the film a hit at the domestic box office.

Go Goa Gone

Go Goa Gone Movie Poster

Go Goa Gone being the fourth venture from his production house has high expectations from it. Introducing a brand new paranormal premise of Zombies for the first time in Bollywood, the film is mostly a comedy. Starring Kunal Khemu, Anand Tiwari and Vir Das in lead roles, one can expect hilarity given their accurate sense of comic timing. The film has built up an average buzz for itself so far and will hence open to a favorable mood from the audiences. Given the script and its overall appeal, the film will gradually move towards its target audience. By the look of its trailers and the impression it has emitted, it mostly intends to be a multiplex oriented affair, but given its genre, it might evoke a better response from the single screens than expected.

Saif Ali Khan, as a producer, has always preferred radiant script. Though mostly sticking to romantic comedies, this time he is trying his luck with a first-of-its-kind concept. Tracing Saif’s track record as a producer, his brand name, though new, has a strong footing in the market and will surely deliver an above average response. Personally, I sincerely hope that for the sake of boosting out of the box thinking, the film fares well.

The voting weekend for IIFA was held in mid March and reflects the multi-themed stories that ruled Bollywood in 2012.

Anurag Basu’s Barfi!, which was brilliant in terms of screen vision and remarkable cinematography, is a warm romantic tale which tugs warmly at the hearts of audiences. The film reigned at almost all Award Functions this year and has grabbed maximum nominations at IIFA too.

Closely following Barfi!, is Shoojit Sircar’s Vicky Donor. In all its hilarity, the film stands out out for its quirky concept unraveling the life of a sperm donor.

Anurag Kashyap’s Gangs of Wasseypur and Karan Malhotra’s Agneepath joins them after.

Besides these unanimously acclaimed films, the other notable ones at IIFA this year will be Kahaani for Vidya Balan’s breathtaking enactment and Paan Singh Tomar for Irrfan Khan’s blazing performance.

English Vinglish, Barfi, Kahaani, Paan Singh Tomar Movie Poster

Besides the nominations, what will overwhelm IIFA this year will be the occasion of 100 years of cinema and the death of legendary veteran film maker Yash Chopra.

Yash Chopra’s last film Jab Tak Hai Jaan starring Shah Rukh Khan, though opened to average and mixed reviews from critics, have garnered nominations for being the last of Yash Chopra’s overpowering brilliance.

IIFA director Sabbas Joseph exclaimed in an interview, “It’s been a phenomenal year for the Indian film industry and the nominations for this year will definitely reflect this. The growth has been remarkable.”

The contenders for the Directors’ trophy are Anurag Basu-Barfi!, Anurag Kashyap-Gangs of Wasseypur-Part I, Sujoy Ghosh-Kahaani, Tigmanshu Dhulia-Paan Singh Tomar and Shoojit Sircar-Vicky Donor. Fighting it out for the best picture award are Barfi!, English Vinglish, Gangs of Wasseypur – Part I, Kahaani, Paan Singh Tomar, Talaash and Vicky Donor.

The best performance in a leading role (male) category will see Hrithik Roshan(Agneepath), Ranbir Kapoor(Barfi!), Manoj Bajpai(Gangs of Wasseypur – Part II), Shah Rukh Khan(Jab Tak Hai Jaan), Irrfan Khan(Paan Singh Tomar) and Ayushmaan Khurrana(Vicky Donor), in the run which will easily pass as the toughest call for the jury to pick out!

Best performance in a leading role (female) are between Priyanka Chopra (Barfi!), Deepika Padukone (Cocktail), Sridevi  (English Vinglish), Huma Qureshi (Gangs of Wasseypur-Part I), Kareena Kapoor (Heroine) and Vidya Balan (Kahaani).

Music director Pritam has bagged two nominations in the category for best music direction for Barfi! and Cocktail, along with A.R. Rahman (Jab Tak Hai Jaan), Ajay-Atul (Agneepath) and Sneha Khanwalkar (Gangs of Wasseypur – Part I).

Top notch audit firm KPMG audited the IIFA voting weekend and the voting for final results will begin their official website from 1st May.

Race 2 Movie Poster                                          Cocktail Movie Poster

Eventually, the film now stands at 75 crores in one week which is a huge number by all standards. Let’s not forget that the film’s promotion hadn’t quite hit the roof, music was released only digitally (which did lead to lesser visibility and popularity) and the end product by itself wasn’t any great shakes. Still, it is due to good credentials attached to this Abbas-Mustan directed flick that resulted in a big number like this being achieved.

The film has now almost equated the lifetime collections of Saif Ali Khan’s Cocktail (76 crores) in one week itself. At the time of this piece going Live, Saif Ali Khan would have enjoyed his biggest money-spinner till date. It’s a wait and watch game to see how close does it come to the 100 crore mark. As things stand today, it should be touch and go. For John Abraham though, this would be his second highest grosser after Housefull 2 (114 crores). As for Deepika Padukone, the film is now all set to be her biggest success ever, hence beating the collections of Om Shanti Om (80 crores), which was ironically her first film.

For his second film Akaash Vani, director Luv Ranjan didn’t enjoy any such luck as there were hardly any collections to boast about. With collections reading a mere lakhs on a daily basis, this Kartik Tiwari-Nushrat Bharucha film has turned out to be an unfortunate disaster at the box office. Ditto for Main Krishna Hoon which had just seen a formality release and came with no chances whatsoever to begin with.

Joginder Tuteja tweets @tutejajoginder

Diana Penty

Diana Penty, who made her Bollywood debut last year in Cocktail, says modelling and acting are two different worlds.

The actress was recently spotted at an event held to unveil the cover page of Women’s Health magazine, which features her. Talking about acting and modelling, Diana said, “(They are) very different, extremely different – the nature of the job and what is required from you. Acting is way more demanding and it has a lot more involvement – physically, emotionally and mentally.”

Diana started modelling in 2005 for Italian designers Trussadi and Ferre and later for Indian designers like Rina Dhaka, Rohit Bal and Wendell Rodricks.

Diana also shares how her inexperience in Bollywood proved to be a boon while the cast of Cocktail was being finalised.

“I was from a completely different world, (with), no film background, I had no acting experience and no training. So I wasn’t sure what I was doing there exactly. I just knew I had to meet these people (Imtiaz Ali and Homi Adajania) and I didn’t know how I will tell them I am not at all prepared, but I want to meet you anyway,” Diana said.

“So all that hesitation and that I was absolutely not confident about myself came through. It so happened that they were looking for somebody like that as the character had all of that in her, and I fit the bill,” she added.

Diana was appreciated for her portrayal of a shy Indian girl Meera in the film, which also starred Saif Ali Khan and Deepika Padukone.

Saif Ali Khan

After an eventful 2012, Saif Ali Khan is looking forward to a racier 2013. The Race 2 actor is at peace with his personal and professional life.

His last film Cocktail managed to do well at the box office, he wed his lady love Kareena Kapoor, and for his forthcoming action thriller Race 2, he got the chance to drive around in high-end cars, shoot in locations like Istanbul and be besides some of Bollywood’s gorgeous girls.

Life’s set, Saif, isn’t it? asked a reporter. “It feels great! It seems my life is quite set… nazar mat lagao yaar (don’t jinx it),” said the actor, who looked extremely stylish and fit at a promotional event here Monday.

Saif was joined at the Audi car showroom here by his Race 2 co-stars Deepika Padukone and Ameesha Patel, who looked as glamourous as the film looks by its songs and trailers.

The Abbas-Mustan movie, set to release Jan 25, is the sequel to 2008 hit film Race. It also features Anil Kapoor, John Abraham and Jacqueline Fernandez.

Saif, who was part of the earlier movie too, says times have changed a lot for cinema in the country, and sequels are accepted.

“When I did Main Khiladi Tu Anari (1994), we were contemplating on a sequel to it. But then the idea was dropped because at that time, sequels didn’t used to happen. But things change… There are some films that lend themselves to a sequel, and the Race franchise lends itself perfectly,” he said.

Honey Singh

If notoriety is a stepping-stone to stardom, then the recent controversies surrounding some of his songs have taken rapper Honey Singh to another level of popularity. If things work out, he may end up singing for Hollywood film Diehard 5.

The singer courted controversies for his songs allegedly based on sexual themes.

Honey sang hit songs last year in the films Cocktail and Khiladi 786. He is now in the process of cracking deals for at least seven new Bollywood projects for topnotch filmmakers including Sajid Nadiadwala and Anurag Kashyap.

But the topping on the controversial cake is the Hollywood deal likely to be cracked with the producers of Diehard 5, the latest instalment of the franchise.

Apparently, Honey is game for his first international film-song except for the time-factor.

“They need the song in a week. I take at least three weeks to write and compose a song. If it’s my first international song and that too for a franchise as well-known as ‘Diehard’ I’ve to make sure it’s an effort worth listening to,” said Honey.

Honey is working on the song. He will deliver to the producers only if he is fully satisfied with the number.

Speaking on the various FIRs filed against him in different parts of the country accusing him of composing misogynistic songs, he said, “My lawyers have been busy. Only now have I been able to get out of the tangle. Now, I can again think straight. But it hasn’t been an easy time for me. I was unnecessarily attacked and ripped apart.”

Honey has written a song about the whole experience that he went through earlier this month when the moral police slammed down on him. The song titled “Bring Me Back” will be premiered later this week on MTV.

Here are women who did get a heads up from the fashion police:

Deepika Padukone in Cocktail

Deepika Padukone in a still from Cocktail Movie

This fiery bold diva of Bollywood looked her best this year. By playing the character of Veronica in Cocktail, Deepika Padukone not only gathered a lot of fan-base through her performance, but looked smoldering with her fashion sense. The actress happily flaunted her body in some chic and sexy clothes, blazing make-up and messy yet classy hair styles. Designer Anaita Shross Adajania created a blend of high street trend with luxury designer fashion that enormously uttered Veronica’s personality.

Deepika did manage to create a niche for herself with her brand new avatar that was loved by all.

Kareena Kapoor in Agent Vinod

Kareena Kapoor in a still from Agent Vinod Movie

Kareena Kapoor has always been an experimenter, when it comes to her body and style. Her svelte figure and incredible fashion sense helps her turn heads, always. In Agent Vinod, the actress wore both traditional and western clothes. Not only did she carry her formal outfit with grace, but looked equally fabulous in the traditional attires.

Kareena opted for a bright, simple and appealing zeal with a tinge of sensuousness taking her style quotient a mark higher last year.

Sridevi in English Vinglish

Sridevi in a still from English Vinglish Movie

Sridevi is true diva when it comes to dressing good and looking fab. The actress definitely knows her style and body type. Sridevi’s come-back with English Vinglish, helped her create an aura of her own. Playing a role of a Marathi housewife, Sridevi’s cotton saris, light jewelry, braid and a bindi looked absolutely appealing.

The cherry on the cake was however the light make-up that made her look like a women next door.

Alia Bhatt in Student Of The Year

Alia Bhatt in a still from Student Of The Year Movie

This new entry into Bollywood definitely did symbolize style, cuteness and oomph at ones. Alia Bhatt made her Bollywood debut with Karan Johar’s Student Of The Year and got a thumbs up for her fashion sense and loveliness.

Her entire look in the movie was elegant, minimalist and graceful. Paying attention to every small detail, she was given the right accessories to carry with each dress. However the best part was the blood red lip color that did catch trend amongst a lot of college girls. In all, Alia did manage to become the Diva Of The Year.

Anushka Sharma in Jab Tak Hai Jaan

Anushka Sharma in a still from Jab Tak Hai Jaan Movie

Anushka Sharma is one actress who knows her style and carries it off with utmost élan. The actress carried a tom-boy look in Jab Tak Hai Jaan. Manish Malhotra, Urvashi Shah, and Shiraz Siddiqui gave her clothes that rightly complemented her body type. Her casual day look with a cargo and a tank top, funky sneakers, aviators and open hair made Anushka look like a sporty girl. Her look harmonized her character quite well.

Katrina Kaif in Jab Tak Hai Jaan

Katrina Kaif in a still from Jab Tak Hai Jaan Movie

Katrina Kaif never fails to look fabulous in any given attire. Katrina’s avatar in Jab Tak Hai Jaan was totally different from what she or any other heroine has ever carried.

Manish Malhotra, Urvashi Shah, and Shiraz Siddiqui’s combination of maxi skirts and fur jackets definitely made a niche. Considering her body type, Katrina looked fab in long gowns and maxis. Not only did the actress look great in these winter fashion clothes, but she looked evenly appealing in her traditional salwar-kameez and sari attire.

The star power is something that influences the audiences and is one factor that helps a movie in reaching the 100 crore target.

Koimoi lists down movies of 2012 that were rich in content and performance but couldn’t make it to the chart.

Kahaani

Kahaani Movie Poster

Kahaani marked one of the best performances by actress, Vidya Balan. The movie had those clever twists and some convincing acting that made the viewers stuck to their seats till the end. The direction, the cinematography, the acting and the screenplay, you may get confused about what not to like. Inspite of all these factors, Kahaani failed to reach the 100-crore benchmark because it lacked the inclusion of a superstar. This was one women-oriented movie of 2012 that was ought to but couldn’t reach the target.

Vicky Donor

Vicky Donor Movie Poster

Out of all the movies released in 2012, Vicky Donor was one that came out to be a shock. The movie was rich in content and even richer in performance. The concept was new and so were the characters, which made it to the critics best listed movies of 2012. Inspite of all these positive factors, Vicky Donor was the movie that did not hold a heavy star cast and so did not reach the 100-crore club.

OMG Oh My God!

OMG Oh My God! Movie Poster

With God’s Grace, Akshay Kumar and Paresh Rawal starrer OMG Oh My God! got a good response from the audience and critics alike. The movie was a merger of good spoof, well-written story and an element of desire. The movie revolved around the main protagonist and his relationship with God. A fresh new concept, praiseworthy performances and witty dialogues, could not help the movie reach the 100-crore club. Because the movie had some known names, it did manage to get close to the benchmark set.

Cocktail

Cocktail Movie Poster

From holding a smart cinematography to some convincing performances and lively and peppy music, Cocktail had it all. The fairy tale three way love triangle between the main leads made it a fun and refreshing movie. However the film did mark its way close to the 100-crore club because of its loose plot and story line.

Ishaqzaade

Ishaqzaade Movie Poster

Just as Vicky Donor, Ishaqzaade too had some new names in it, who gave some laudable performances, making the movie a hit. Inspite of its unique storyline, appealing climax, wonderful songs and bankable performance, the movie failed to make a 100 crore business. However it did help the star cast get recognized for their work.

Be it Ranbir Kapoor’s mute avatar or the lover-boy-turned-angry-young man Shah Rukh Khan or the haasi-se-lotpot comical vendetta king Ajay Devgn, we bring you the top 8 star performances that robbed us of our hearts last year.

Hrithik Roshan for Agneepath

Hrithik Roshan in a still from Agneepath Movie

Revamping an iconic character was difficult, and when it’s Amitji’s Vijay Dinanath Chauhan to be re-enacted on screen, the pressure is well on the actor. Hrithik Roshan scorched screens with a strong and gritty performance in KJo’s remake of Agneepath. With the zeal and fire burning within Vijay inevitable through Hrithik’s eyes and emotions, we lived a fairy tale and how.

Akshay Kumar for Rowdy Rathore

Akshay Kumar in a still from Rowdy Rathore Movie

The ultimate rockstar who cashed in the most moolahs for the industry this year with all his films setting benchmarks, Akshay Kumar is riding real high on his successes. But over the year, it was his Rowdy Rathore edition that stood out among all his other works. Playing the zabardast cop with no paunch, Akshay made his way into our list so easy-breezy.

Saif Ali Khan for Cocktail

Saif Ali Khan in a still from Cocktail Movie

Whilst his ambitious Agent Vinod went down the drains, it was Homi Adjania’s love story Cocktail that brought Saif Ali Khan back into the race. Saif’s character touched hearts and his performance deserved applause.

Ranbir Kapoor for Barfi!

Ranbir Kapoor in a still from Barfi! Movie

While all his contemporaries tasted success with the verve in their dialogues, this man made the earth stand still with no dialogues and only expressions. Be it the sweet and extremely charming proposal scene between Barfi and Shruti or the mind blowing rejection scene where Barfi vents out his anger and temper, only through his eye work! Ranbir Kapoor spelled magic with a capital M yet again as he moved on to Being Barfi!.

Salman Khan for Ek Tha Tiger

Salman Khan in a still from Ek Tha Tiger Movie

The first ever association between India’s biggest star and India’s biggest production house made way for our own Being Human superstar trying his hands into something oh-so-different and trendy. Essaying the role of Tiger, the Indian spy agent was one which Salman pulled off with assumed comfort but it was the panache and the starry aura that made Salman Khan’s Ek Tha Tiger stand out!

Ajay Devgn for Son of Sardaar

Ajay Devgn in a still from Son of Sardaar Movie

A hysterical series of comical vengeance where vindication was redefined on terms of laughter giggles and humour, Son Of Sardaar with Ajay Devgn in the lead scored high, more because of Ajay’s earnest comic caper act and the delicious Po-Po song.

Shah Rukh Khan for Jab Tak Hai Jaan

Shah Rukh Khan in a still from Jab Tak Hai Jaan Movie

It was the Yash Chopra-SRK duo, the first time on screen jodi SRK-Kat, the Rahman-Gulzar collision that were mighty reasons for this monumental film, a milestone in the history of Indian cinematic romance. But Jab Tak Hai Jaan would never have been the same without our lovely and hugely creative Shah Rukh Khan. Infusing life into Samar Anand, playing the loverboy and the high-on-attitude army officer with equal aplomb, SRK kept his romantic flags flying real high.

Salman Khan for Dabangg 2

Salman Khan in a still from Dabangg 2 Movie

When Robinhood Pandey turned Kung- Fu Pandey in Dabangg 2, we went rip roaring in laughter, smiling every moment, and at times slipping back into the emotional backseat. Salman relived his almost iconic Chulbul Pandey with astonishment as the elements of emotions missing from Dabangg’s first edition were instilled in this one, through an excellent performance stealing the show all over again. The West might have Batman and the Supermans, India has its Salman packing in the punch!

In a year filled with some oh-so-brilliant performances, be it the scintillating Kahaani or the high on verve Cocktail and the lovingly scandalous Heroine, our pick for the season is up for grabs. Have a check!

Vidya Balan for Kahaani

Vidya Balan in a still from Kahaani Movie

The new Big B in the tinsel town, Miss Balan has been setting some records straight for the past three years, grabbing almost all awards. The most bankable actress in B-town today, Vidya Balan marveled as Vidya Bagchi, a wife on a relentless search for her missing husband in Sujoy Ghosh’s beautifully written Kahaani. Vidya, the actress scored milestones with this flick that boasted of a gripping narrative and some brilliant performances.

Deepika Padukone for Cocktail

Deepika Padukone in a still from Cocktail Movie

Stylish, trendy and in vogue, our lovely Khuda Jaane lady moved away from her showpiece theorems and showed the hidden actress inside her. Deepika Padukone excelled as Veronica in the film Cocktail, which is definitely the biggest turning point in the leggy diva’s career graph! She agrees, we agree too!

Parineeti Chopra for Ishaqzaade

Parineeti Chopra in a still from Ishaqzaade Movie

A chulbuli and effervescently volatile actress in the maiden Bolly venture and then an entire drift apart to a feisty and fiery Zoya in Ishaqzaade, Parineeti Chopra the versatile performer shot to instant fame, with more audience connect as she donned the two different roles with equal aplomb. While LVRB got her all debut awards last year, Ishaqzaade triggered her to the powerful list of A grade actresses, merely with her second film!

Katrina Kaif for Ek Tha Tiger

Katrina Kaif in a still from Ek Tha Tiger Movie

Kabir Khan, the maverick brought out India’s best action superstar actress to the fore in the form of our Mashallah Katrina Kaif who delved into the better versions of emoting on screen with Ek Tha Tiger and made sure her action sequences come just perfect. For an actress who is hardly applauded for her performance, ETT was a nice changeover.

Priyanka Chopra for Barfi!

Priyanka Chopra in a still from Barfi! Movie

In an obvious male centered film, making a mark isn’t a cakewalk for the actress. But our sweet and adorable Jhilmil Chatterjee from Barfi! made it possible and how. Playing the role of an autistic girl with assumed conviction, Priyanka Chopra won hearts. Essaying all the elements of emotions with equal ease and earnestness, Priyanka is definitely a strong contender for the throne this year. When she twitched the small finger into her beloved’s one, we tried doing the same.

Kareena Kapoor for Heroine

Kareena Kapoor in a still from Heroine Movie

Madhur Bhandarkar’s gamble on Bollywood, revealing the nitty-gritties of its core, emphasizing on the relations prevalent in the industry was quite a bore but what saved the ship from sinking completely was a brilliant act by Mahi Aroa aka our lovely Bebo. Kareena Kapoor made Mahi, the Heroine look absolutely natural and evoked equal amount of rage, anger, brashness, sympathy and equal empathy with the course of the protagonist’s life.

Sridevi for English Vinglish

Sridevi in a still from English Vinglish Movie

Living almost as a recluse in a world where her contemporaries were making comebacks, some good and some too dull, Sridevi took time to make an astounding comeback of sorts, one with an immensely refreshing plot in English Vinglish. Sridevi’s comeback vehicle was more elegant than sexy, and Gauri Shinde assured the presence of a Shashi in most middle class Indian housewives. The queen of expressions bamboozled us with her magical maneuvers, and we were awed by her terrific screen presence. Sridevi, even in a light blue ordinary sari can still make wonders!

Katrina Kaif for Jab Tak Hai Jaan

Katrina Kaif in a still from Jab Tak Hai Jaan Movie

She came running in an exquisite orange ghagra choli, dolled up with a lovely red fur coat around her, and we knew what we were going to witness. Staging the throne as the leading lady of the last Yash Chopra directorial venture, Katrina Kaif rose to pinnacles in her career, making all her dreams come true with Jab Tak Hai Jaan. The genius instilled within Mr. Chopra was enough to drive and flesh out the best from Katrina as Meera. Her emotions surpassed all her previous encounters and she stood out in an arena ruled by King Khan.

Undoubtedly, Padukone’s hard work, dedication and love for films and acting is transforming her into a fine actor. Her last film Cocktail, despite gathering mixed reviews from critics, was quite a win-win film for her. Her acting was unanimously praised and suddenly she is catapulted years ahead of her colleagues.

2013 will be crucial for her as Race 2 is gearing up release and she is filming for Ayan Mukherji’s Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani with Ranbir Kapoor. Also lined up with it is Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Ram Leela and Rohit Shetty’s Chennai Express with Shah Rukh Khan.

With her kitty full of mixed bag, diverse scripts and different actors, KoiMoi glances through Deepika’s best on screen team ups.

Deepika – SRK

Shahrukh Khan And Deepika Padukone In Chennai Express Movie Poster

Deepika’s debut vehicle in Bollywood was Farah Khan’s Om Shanti Om opposite Shah Rukh Khan. The film was a blockbuster and Deepika was appreciated as the new flavour of Bollywood. Her right personality, attitude and looks made looked in sync with Shah Rukh’s overpoweringly magnanimous stature. They teamed up together again for an item song in Billu which was quite a sizzling number. They are all set to ‘Ready Steady Po’ with Rohit Shetty’s Chennai Express which is being produced by Gauri Khan.

Deepika – Ranbir

Deepika Padukone And Ranbir Kapoor Bachna Ae Haseeno Movie Stills

Their relationship was under media scrutiny all through and so was their high profile break up. But surely Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone do make a nice pair, at least on screen. Their behaviors quite complimentary enhance each other. Though Bachna Ae Haseeno wasn’t able to explore fully the on screen chemistry of the two! The duo will be seen again in Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani and since Ayan’s previous venture Wake Up Sid was more than a mere breath of fresh air, hopes are extremely high from this one as well.

Deepika – Akshay

Deepika Padukone And Akshay Kumar In Chandni Chowk to China Movie Stills

Their chemistry didn’t quite work well the audiences. In Chandni Chowk to China, she looks lost and confused for a large part of the film. In Housefull, Deepika was noticeable more because of her beauty and less for her chemistry with Akshay.

Deepika – Saif

Deepika Padukone And Saif Ali Khan In Cocktail Movie Stills

Audiences have got quite a taste of this pair. They have definitely evolved with time and films, and Deepika has got better with her acting. Imtiaz Ali’s Love Aaj Kal was a great film for its story. But Deepika’s acting could not really do justice do the character Imtiaz had envisioned for her. Aarakshan and Cocktail both come as a pleasant surprise to you when you see how her acting has seasoned up with time for the better and the pair look great in both films.

Deepika- Farhan

Deepika Padukone And Farhan Akhtar in Karthik Calling Karthik Movie Stills

As a supportive partner to a schizophrenic in Karthik Calling Karthik, Deepika does justice to her role finally. Her chemistry with Farhan in the film leaves enough space for greater delving.

Deepika – Neil

Neil Nitin Mukesh And Deepika Padukone in Lafangey Parindey Movie Stills

A blind girl working towards winning a skating competition, now that’s an inspiring tale. Lafangey Parindey was a well made film. One will be mesmerized by Deepika’s acting and that in turn overshadows her chemistry with Neil.

Deepika-Imran

Imran Khan And Deepika Padukone in Break Ke Baad Movie Stills

Now this jodi had a significant amount of potential. There were heart wrenchingly cute moments between the two in Break Ke Baad. Imran’s endearing role and how he warmly draws the brat towards him, was quite a tale.

Deepika – Abhishek

Deepika Padukone And Abhishek Bachchan in Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey Movie Stills

I think we all must have missed this one. Though Deepika’s acting was impressive in Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey, the chemistry was worse than doom!

Deepika – John

Deepika Padukone And John Abraham In Desi Boyz Movie Stills

One would expect two such beautiful looking people to have a hot chemistry. But both, the film Desi Boyz and their chemistry were epic disasters!

Deepika – Ranveer

Deepika Padukone And Ranveer Singh

Little birdies inform us that the duo were caught cozying up besides work as well. They were seen on a lunch date on New Year as well. Though the actors have rubbished these stories of their alleged link ups, Ram Leela will be worth it for a new chemistry to brew!

KoiMoi wishes Deepika Padukone a Very Happy Birthday!

With 2012 being a testimony to some groovy, peppy, high octane numbers on one hand, and some soothing melodious romantic tracks on the other, we at Koimoi list down this year’s ten of the best music albums that set all dance floors on fire and pepped up each happening party in the town and amplified the footfall of discotheques and the regular bistro-bars!

Off to some Sa-re-ga-ma-pa-dha-ni-sa now:

Agneepath

Agneepath Movie Poster Wallpaper

An excellent album that was not just high on tempo with a raunchy Chikni Chameli but also had the highly urbane Gun Gun Guna but it was the soulful tearjerker Abhi Mujh Mein Baaki by Sonu Nigam that left our lachrymal glands wanting for tissue papers and our hearts feeling all empty! Ajay-Atul had the perfect mix of all emotions and rocked the music arena with their scintillating album.

Vicky Donor

Vicky Donor Movie Poster

A film that really stood out, not just for its unconventional theme and content but also because of the superlative soundtracks that followed bay. Vicky Donor saw an array of composers in Abhishek-Akshay, Donn-Bann, Rochak Kohli but it was the versatile Ayushmann Khurrana who left everyone spellbound with a mesmerizing Paani Da Rang. Mar Jaiya and Rum Rum Whisky were the bonus cherries that we all savored.

Rowdy Rathore

Rowdy Rathore Movie Poster

The reigning rulers of the Music territory today, Sajid Wajid set all tongues waging for more with a rural and rustic Aa Re Pritam Pyare that not just made the naughty thumkas a trend but also redefined boisterousness. Chinta Ta Ta grew onto you but Chikni Kamar was a little bland! Nevertheless, Rowdy Rathore was much better than being rowdy on the music front!

Cocktail

Cocktail Movie Poster Wallpaper

Pritam spell magic with an awesome album in the form of Cocktail which had an amalgamation of everything. From the groovy Second Hand Jawaani to the sharp Main Sharaabi number and the somber Daaru Desi number, Cocktail the album was a product of Pritam’s creative genius. How can we forget Tum hi Ho Bandhu which became the Friendship anthem for all?

Barfi!

Barfi! Movie Poster

After weaving his magic wand round with Cocktail, Pritam, the master player created a gem of an album with Anurag Basu’s Barfi!. Soulful, melodious and candilyciously sweet, Barfi! had no item numbers to hail through but the beautiful renditions in the form of Ala Barfi, and Phir Le Aaya Dil were heart warming. And selecting this in the top 10 list was inevitable, almost! Main Kya Karu, Dil yeh mera bas main nahi! Get the cue, dahling?

Gangs Of Wasseypur 1

Gangs Of Wasseypur Movie Poster Wallpaper

Quirky and loaded with underlined sexuality, Gangs Of Wasseypur had the nation ablaze with an effective and a little lovingly-perverted number in I am A Hunter but it was O Womaniya that broke all barriers and merged boundaries! Piyush Mishra took hold of the banter but newbie Sneha Khanwalkar did a stellar job of putting forward the album after her unconventional successes in LSD and Oye Lucky Lucky Oye!

Student Of The Year

Student Of The Year Movie Poster Wallpaper

The uber cool, highly chic and most stylish film of the year was sky high on the music quotient too, let aside fashion maneuvers! Rendering the world of Vele-s with a party mixer or nicknaming debutante Sid Kukkad Malhotra, Vishal-Shekhar prove their excellence by sticking to their forte. It was definitely the rehashed and revamped Nazia Hassan number Disco Deewane that tried taking away all the cake, but the fusion Radha track gave stiff competition to its own teammate. We must admit!

Son Of Sardaar

Son Of Sardaar Movie Poster Wallpaper

Nothing short of a sardaar-d though content wise, this Ajay Devgn comedy had just two things going right: the bubbly Juhi Chawla and the catchy and racy dance numbers. The Raja Rani track was high on humour and packed in some hilarious laughs, while the Po Po beats got the nation trying the cheeky step! Aha! Himmesh again, no wonder why! Fitting the mad comic caper bill with perfection, this album was definitely a nice timeout.

Khiladi 786

Khiladi 786 Movie Poster

A multi faceted personality once again was at the fore front with some of the best renditions this year that grabbed eyeballs and created a stir almost immediately. Himmesh Reshammiya, the composer belted out some amazing spicy numbers with Balma, O Baawariya, Khiladi Bhaiya and the popular Hookah Bar rocking music charts worldwide! Some people should seriously stick to what they do best! Wink!

Dabangg 2

Dabangg 2 Movie Poster Wallpaper

While the year started with a bang, one wondered how Salman’s Dabangg 2 would fare on the home ground, but Sajid Wajid stored their best for the last, we feel! Creating an almost replica of the precursor and matching upto the expectations was not just difficult but next to impossible. The music composer duo made everything possible with a delicious album that had everything: a touch-your-heart romantic Dagabaaz Re and Saanson Ne, a high on tempo Pandeyji Seeti Maare, a powerful Dabangg Reloaded and the orgasmic-to-the-ears Fevicol Se.

Now with a lot more star studded entrances into the supporting crew list this year, we revisit the Top 5 Supporting actresses of 2012 who not only wowed the masses with a brilliant performance but also were at par with the lead actors, if not better!

Kareena Kapoor – Talaash

Kareena Kapoor in a still from Talaash Movie

While one was wondering who the lead star of Aamir Khan’s Talaash is, the director clearly called the shots bringing Rani to the fore as the leading lady! Even though Rani was the leading lady of this suspense drama, it was Kareena Kapoor who stole the show with an uber chic act of a prostitute with consummate ease as she essayed Rosy. While critics critically attacked the film for its mystery revelation, they called Kareena’s role as the consort battleship that could never even show a sign of sinking! Supporting and making Aamir’s Talaash is successful, Kareena as the friendly ghost drew a lot of cheers from all and sundry.

Diana Penty – Cocktail

Diana Penty in a still from Cocktail Movie

Some say Models don’t act but this leggy supermodel really made the statement a myth as she scorched screens alongside Deepika Padukone and Saif Ali Khan in Cocktail! Touted as a blend of friendship, fashion and love, Diana Penty’s portrayal of the three central themes were aptly perfect. Diana easily metamorphosed from a typical introvert girl to a mature romantic lovelorn lady in the film, thereby hammering upon her acting prowess and what she has in store for all. With such a critically acclaimed supporting act up her sleeve, it would be nice to see how she fares in future.

Anushka Sharma – Jab Tak Hai Jaan

Anushka Sharma in a still from Jab Tak Hai Jaan Movie

The complete jackpot of the classic yet contemporary romantic filler by Yash Chopra, Anushka Sharma’s Akira was gritty, strong-willed, determined, spunky and deliciously effervescent. With not much of a contrast to Anushka in real life, she played Akira Rai to eased perfection and helped the chemistry between the lead Katrina Kaif and Shah Rukh Khan come out even stronger. Much a time you empathized with this wonder girl of sorts, but then you are shuddered with realizations of this vivacious doll eating away all the cake from the lead actress, somewhat on the acting front. She completely lived it, ‘Jiya Re’ style and how!

Ileana D’Cruz – Barfi!

Ileana D’Cruz in a still from Barfi! Movie

With a career defining debut in an enthralling film like Barfi!, South superstar Ileana D’Cruz infused life into Shruti when she stepped into her shoes from frame one. Playing the docile yet urbane Shruti with elegance, poise and grandeur, this actress packed in the best support of its kind to lead actors Ranbir Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra. A piece of marvel, Ileana played her part to cinematic brilliance as she not only looked stunning, but performed with all her heart and passion. Barfi and Jhilmil could never have been the same, had Shruti not existed!

Richa Chadda – Gangs of Wasseypur

Richa Chadda in a still from Gangs of Wasseypur Movie

Fiery, feisty and a firecracker, Nagma Khan, the character from Gangs Of Wasseypur was all so enviable because of this one wonder woman. Transforming from a teenager to an old lady in the film, our Miss Fire set the stage on fire with such a scintillating performance backing the pivotal characters in the film, ushering in all the glory and fame. While one credits Manoj Bajpai and Nawazuddin Siddiqui  for their effective portrayal of sorts, one cannot even dare to miss our darling Richa Chadda from the film’s USP list!

In this period the star power has risen yet again with Salman Khan, Akshay Kumar, Hrithik Roshan, Ajay Devgan booking the top 5 slots with their respective films grossing over the 100 Crore benchmark in this period. But surprise surprise as Vidya Balan starrer Kahaani has made a fair entry in the list of the rockers of the first half. It goes without doubt that the delightful Barfi! is supposed to make a home run given the brilliant reception and has taken a great lead in our list which sadly evaded Kareena Kapoor starrer Heroine’s fate.

Although Akshay Kumar’s OMG Oh My God!, releases this September end but we still go ahead with our list as it takes merely 3 days of the month. With an assortment of comedy, action, drama and thriller we present the list of flicks grabbing the top slot and rounding up the first nine months of the industry.

The 9 month report card offers a mix of drama, action, comedy, dirty comedy and speaking loud and clear that star power and content both do work independent of each other.

Ek Tha Tiger

Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif starrer Ek Tha Tiger Movie Poster

The imminent winner with no hiccups on the way is Sallu Bhai’s Ek Tha Tiger which saw an Independence Day opening with a fabulous 32.92 crores on its opening day itself. The Yash Raj’s experiment with high dosage of stunts and reworking of the hit pairing of Katrina Kaif and Salman Khan did box office wonders for the multi Crore venture. The film has said to have earned about a staggering 198 crores and no wonder rules our list as the top grosser till now.

Rowdy Rathore

Akshay Kumar and Sonakshi Sinha starrer Rowdy Rathore Movie Poster

Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s gaudy adventure into the comic genre has surely proved lucky. The Prabhu Deva directed action masala with Akshay Kumar and the recent Bollywood lucky charm, Sonakshi Sinha gave the box office a severe jolt to make way for an astounding 131 Crores. The film’s return to the flashy attires and smarty one liners with quirky dance moves has aptly secured the film the second slot in our list.

Agneepath

Hrithik Roshan and Priyanka Chopra starrer Agneepth Movie Poster

The third position has been retained by the action drama Agneepath, a remake of Yash Johar’s 1990 film with the same name. The film produced by Karan Johar boasted of a heavy star cast containing Hrithik Roshan, Sanjay Dutt and Priyanka Chopra. With high hopes pinned the film broke the opening day record of Bodyguard with 2 3.00 crores, later to be overrun by Ek Tha Tiger. Gradually a box office blockbuster the film has grossed about 123 Crores.

Housefull 2

Akshay Kumar, John Abraham, Shreyas Talpade, Ritesh Deshmukh, Asin, Zarine Khan, Jacqueline Fernandez and Shazahn Padamsee starrer Housefull 2 Movie Poster

When you have a mad house with unpredictable characters what do we hint at….obviously Sajid Nadiadwala’s Housefull 2. The film did manage to steal the limelight with earnings of about a staggering 114 Crores. A long line of stars lead by Akshay Kumar and the charm of yesteryear actors like Mithun Chakraborty, Rishi Kapoor and Randhir Kapoor made the success of the movie seem inevitable.

Bol Bachchan

Ajay Devgan, Asin, Abhishek Bachchan and Prachi Desai starrer Bol Bachchan Movie Poster

Rohit Shetty and Ajay Devgan’s super hit pairing struck the bull’s eye yet again and this time with Abhishek Bachchan in the trio’s laughter riot Bol Bachchan. Claiming to be the official remake of Gol Maal (1979) the film ran to packed theatres garnering an impressive 102 crores ranking in the top five positions. The female leads were played by Asin Thottumkal and Prachi Desai.

Barfi!

Ranbir Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra and Ileana D’Cruz starrer Barfi! Movie Poster

Anurag Basu’s warm and vivacious romantic comedy Barfi! has created ripples enough to place it in our list of highest earners. Since its release in 14^th September the film has already collected about 101.50 Crores plus and has been chosen as India’s Official Entry to 85^thAcademy Awards. With rave reviews on Ranbir Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra’s brilliant performance, the heart rendering  romantic comedy is Rabir’s ticket to the 100 Crore Club.

Cocktail

Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone and Diana Peny starrer Cocktail Movie Poster

A notable gross of 76 Crores puts Cocktail at the seventh spot as per our rankings. The casual story revolving around friendship, love, trust involving three friends received mixed reviews and made for a great business confirming the film’s success rate. Deepika Padukone as the wild and brash Veronica made for the film’s USP added to which was Saif Ali Khan’s jovial presence along with pretty thing Diana Penty.

Raaz 3

Emraan Hashmi, Bipasha Basu and Esha Gupta starrer Raaz 3 Movie Poster

Vishesh Film’s horror sequel Raaz 3 released in the first week of this month has managed to pull the audience drawing about 70 Crores up till now. The Vikram Bhatt direction has Bipasha Basu return to the Raaz series since its first installment, with Emraan Hashmi and Esha Gupta in the lead. Well going by the collections it seems the chill must have gone down with the audience pretty well.

Kahaani

Vidya Balan starrer Kahaani Movie Poster

No high end budget no reputed actors yet the lone pregnant Vidya Balan stole the show slowly and steadily for Sujoy Ghosh’s Kahaani which has earned about 59 Crores. The Kolkata centric film shot with women oriented subject in the crore became one of the most talked about films of the year and received great critical reviews.

Kyaa Super Kool Hain Hum

Ritesh Deshmukh, Tusshar Kapoor, Sarah Jane Dias, and Neha Sharma starrer Kyaa Super Kool Hain Hum Movie Poster

Ekta Kapoor produced sexual comedy Kyaa Super Kool Hai Hum has made a great statement earning 45 Crores in total and 33 Crores in its opening weekend. The film with Ritesh Deshmukh and Tusshar Kapoor is a sequel to the 2005 hit, Kyaa Kool Hain Hum.

The list stands rock solid till September and is to experience a major shift with prominent releases lined up in the coming months. An interesting wait would be for Shah Rukh Khan’s Jab Tak Hain Jaan, Aamir Khan and Kareena Kapoor’s Talaash, Akshay Kumar’s Khiladi 786, Ajay Devgn and Sonakshi Sinha’s Son of Sardaar and the majorly anticipated Salman Khan’s Dabaang 2.

With these power packed grand releases a huge dislodgement is anticipated in the Top 5 positions of the list. An exciting battle is brewing for the year end as one expects the crucial competition for the top slot between Shah Rukh, Aamir, Salman and Akshay. So will it be Shah Rukh’s evergreen romance again, Khilladi’s return to action or Salman again knocking off his own record like always or might it be Aamir taking forward what he started with 3 Idiots.

It will be a wait and watch exciting situation, but you can guess, comment, vote and hope that the best wins the race.

Esha Gupta in a Still from Jannat 2 and Raaz 3 Movie

This year’s earliest draw was the Bhatt clan’s leading lady for the sequel Jannat 2, Esha Gupta. Originally a model from Delhi, the 26 year old has won the Miss India Pageant in 2007 and modeled for the Kingfisher Calendar (2010). Even though Esha Gupta got mixed reviews on her debut, she went to be labeled with glamour quotient. She was the talk of industry with her sexy sari and diva like look. The pretty lady attracted ample attention and grabbed the successful horror series follow up Raaz 3 which released just recently. One lucky girl we have to say! She worked with Emraan Hashmi then Bipasha Basu and now she is playing a tough IPS officer in the Prakash Jha political thriller, Chakravyuh opposite the likes of Abhay Deol and Arjun Rampal. Vishesh Films has her signed for another of its upcoming production. In the words of the former model itself the public demand is of “beautiful girl on screen…That’s how it works…”

Diana Penty in a Still from Cocktail Movie

The coy and sweet Meera, archetypal of Indian girl and that is Diana Penty in her super hit movie Cocktail. The tall lissome lady caught the attention with ease in the movie’s first trailer itself. She was approached for Rockstar by Imtiaz Ali but was later replaced. Diana has modeled and endorsed reputed brands like Garnier, Maybelline and Virgin Mobile.  She had replaced Deepika Padukone as the brand ambassador for Maybelline and has graced several magazine covers over the time. Diana Penty began walking the ramp in 2005 for Italian designers and has worked with Wendell Rodricks, Rina Dhaka and Rohit Bal. Diana wishes to pursue acting seriously and we surely anticipate her next appearances.

Ileana D'Cruz in a Still from Barfi! Movie

Anurag Basu’s delightful treat Barfi! has become even sweeter with Ileana D’Cruz’s charming and poignant presence. Ileana D’Cruz is not new to stardom, an established actress she has Telugu movies like Pokri (2006), Kick (2009), Devadasu (2006), Jalsa (2009) and Juliya in 2012 to her credit. She began her career hesitantly modelling in Fair & Lovely, Electrolux and Emami Talc’s advertisements. Ileana D’Cruz has been the focus of gossip and a source of hype for the movie. Her role has been much talked about after being turned down by Katrina. But the charming actress has held true to her ground and delivered a memorable act in spite of the presence of Ranbir Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra which could jolly well fetch her meatier roles. She has been signed for next Hindi film opposite Shahid Kapoor, Phata Poster Nikla Hero due for release next year. Currently Ileana is on house hunting spree wishing to shift base in Mumbai.

Alia Bhatt in a Still from Student Of The Year Movie

And in this rain of new faces of Bollywood we cannot but look forward to Mahesh Bhatt’s daughter, Alia Bhatt who is making her grand launch in Karan Johar’s Student Of The Year.

Deepika Padukone

Actress Deepika Padukone received rave reviews for her portrayal of the outspoken and devil-may-care attitude Veronica in Cocktail. Little did she know she would have to play a similar role again.

Deepika who will be seen in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Ram Leela is playing the role of Juliet, who is from a village in Kutch.  Sans her Prada and Gucci outfits from Cocktail, Deepika will be seen wearing ghagra-cholis and oxidized jewelry in Ram Leela. Not just this but Deepika will also be shown to abuse frequently and play a total street smart girl. For her role, Deepika had to shed a lot of her inhibitions and behave like a local from Kutch to get in the skin of the character. She is said to have worked hard to get a perfect gujju accent and took time out to work on her diction.

Deepika is said to have also approved to doing a lot of intimate scenes for her role of Juliet. Sources say that SLB who loved her role in Cocktail, wanted Deepika to shed her inhibitions a notch further and made sure her personality also moulded into that of an earthy, daughter-of-the-soil woman.

Rowdy Rathore, Agneepath Movie Poster

A look at the Pre-July Releases:

Superstars Rule:

Talking about the rulers, it is actually Akshay Kumar who leads the race. With 2 blockbusters of the year till date- Housefull 2 and Rowdy Rathore- the Kumar has changed his continued string of flops (read: Action Replayy, Tees Maar Khan, Patiala House and Thank You) into major box office earners. While Housefull 2 collected Rs. 114 crores in India alone, Prabhudeva’s masala flick Rowdy Rathore garnered a massive Rs. 130 crores in the domestic market, making Kumar the undisputed King of the box office of the 1^st half of the year.

Not much behind in the race is Bollywood’s Greek God Hrithik Roshan with his mega-film Agneepath, co-starring Priyanka Chopra and Sanjay Dutt. The film kick-started Bollywood’s fate at the 2012 BO in an impressive way, earning Rs. 123 crore, and giving Hrithik a new high after a successful Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara in 2011.

None of the three ‘big’ Khans had any release, but our Chhote Nawab Saif Ali Khan did have his home production Agent Vinod, co-starring his soon-to-be wife Kareena Kapoor. The film was a major disappointment but ‘Pungi’ saved it from being a complete disaster.

Bhatt-favorite Emraan Hashmi has contributed in his own way to the semi-annual Profit & Loss Statement of 2012 through his films like Shanghai and Jannat 2.

But from among all the Kumars, Roshans and Khans, emerges a ‘Silk’ Balan who proved her mettle once again in Sujoy Ghosh’s Kahaani, which raked in Rs. 60 crores, carrying forward her hit streak of ‘The Dirty Picture’ that had earned Rs. 80 crores in 2011.

New Talents on the Rise:

Ayushmann Khurrana In Vicky Donor, Arjun Kapoor Ishaqzaade Movie

The first half of the year witnessed new talents making their debut in the industry and bringing in some real good money. Ayushmann Khurrana turned out to be the surprise package, with his Vicky Donor receiving a thumbs-up from the audiences and critics alike. The film, made on a modest budget of Rs. 5 crores, earned Rs. 46 crores at the box office, adding to the numbers.

Similarly, Boney Kapoor’s son Arjun Kapoor made his debut with Ishaqzaade, which was also well-received at the BO. The film grossed more than Rs. 45 crores, and worked out due to the catchy music and the appreciable performances of the lead pair. Needless to say, Parineeti Chopra shone again in the film.

The Different Cinema and the True Performers:

When you have talented stars like Irrfan Khan and Manoj Bajpai in your film, chances are rare that the film won’t work or get noticed. Irrfan’s Paan Singh Tomar and Bajpai’s Gangs of Wasseypur re-affirmed that these actors are their best in off-beat and artistic cinema. The films contributed Rs. 15 and 25 crores respectively to the Profit & Loss Statement of the half year.

The Break-even Points:

The first half of 2012 saw a number of films which had fresh content to offer and turned out to be decent box-office earners. Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu, Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya and Ferrari Ki Sawaari had new and interesting stories to tell, and were among the ‘good’ films that we saw pre-July.

The Losses:

While some films struck right with the audiences, there were numerous others which failed to leave an impact. Players, Ek Deewana Tha, Jodi Breakers, Teri Meri Kahani, Department, Dangerous Ishq, Blood money, Hate Story, Bittoo Boss, and many others, featured big names but did nothing to make their fate ‘big’ at the BO.

Hollywood comes to Town:

Mission Impossible Ghost-Protocol, The Amazing Spider-Man Movie Poster

To save you from the terrible impact of some of the worst yawnathons of 2012, a bunch of Hollywood films released in India and emerged as major earners. Mission Impossible 4, Men In Black 3 and The Amazing Spiderman confirmed that India is not just about Bollywood, but also about Hollywood lovers!

A Look at Part-II so far:

Kyaa Super Kool Hain Hum, Bol Bachchan Movie Poster

A soaring first half has sent expectation levels high from the second half of the year. Rohit Shetty hit the blockbuster jackpot with his Bol Bachchan, and Saif Ali Khan compensated for Agent Vinod by delivering Cocktail. The film grossed Rs. 80 crore till now, thanks to uber cool DPs (Deepika Padukone and Diana Penty, silly!) and the superb foot-tapping chartbusters.

Kya Super Kool Hain Hum and the much-awaited Jism 2 (starring Canadian adult-star Sunny Leone) have projected good numbers.

In the run-up to Eid this month will be the most-anticipated film of the year- Salman Khan’s Ek Tha Tiger. The YRF production will see Katrina Kaif opposite her ex-beau. The music is already topping charts and the film is expected to break all blockbuster records!

Not far behind is Akshay-Sonakshi starrer Joker, which seems to be one to look out for. Other films that have sent excitements levels soaring for the second half of the year are Anurag Basu’s Barfee, Madhur Bhandarkar’s Heroine, Ajay Devgn starrer Son of Sardar, Talaash and SRK-Katrina-YRF untitled film!

With so much on the platter, 2012 sure is going to be one helluva box office wonder! Sit back and watch the game!

Saif Ali Khan In Cocktail Movie Stills

The fact that he was obviously ‘high’ (no pun intended) on ‘Cocktail’ further made him loosen up all the more that made him ‘reveal’ this ‘information’ which was nothing but his way to ‘entertain’ himself for a change.

“Saif is plain amused to see so much being said and written about his personal life as well as certain career decisions. Right from being married off to Kareena every second month to the newer dates being announced to the questions coming his way about playing a lover boy to actually getting some of the biggest successes whenever he has wooed his girls on screen, Saif is finding himself in the thick of things. It was one such moment when a journalist asked him about his future plans and Saif decided to have some fun”, says a close associate of the actor.

It was then when instead of coming with the denials or evasive answers, he built up a story around a film with Natalie. After all, he pretty much knew that a quote stated by him in jest would actually make headlines and to some extent, this was also his own way to have some good time while being on the other side of the table.

“He was obviously grinning from ear to ear when everyone picked the news about Natalie and there was a new round of speculations that started making the rounds. The biggest question was around how did he actually make this Bollywood-Hollywood collaboration happen, especially when so many other actors are said to be planning it without fail for years”, the associate continues, “Saif’s phone was ringing day in and night out for the last couple of days but he chose to keep mum as this time around the amusement level took a different proportion.”

However, Saif has now decided to break his silence otherwise the entire weekend would have gone into further media overdrive about the film, something that he felt was avoidable.

“It was a joke, I am sorry”, smiles Saif, “It’s just that I am very annoyed with speculations on all the aspects of my life. If this goes on, I might just start making up stories like these to entertain myself. Hope people will understand that.”

Wishful thinking, shall we say?

Deepika Padukone, Saif Ali Khan, Diana Penty In Movie Cocktail

After an opening week collection of 55 Crores, the movie actually had no competition except for the Hollywood release ‘The Dark Knight Rises‘. Considering the fact that both the movies, i.e. Cocktail and The Dark Knight Rises were a multiplex movie, there was no doubt about the fact that the Batman would eat up huge holes in Cocktail’s box office collections.

Cocktail made a fair 12 Crores on it’s 2nd week at the Box Office. However, the movie saw a huge drop on Monday. As compared to last Friday the movie dropped to a 60% low on Monday. The collections were merely 1.25 Crores. If the numbers keep dropping this way ‘Kya Super Kool Hain Hum‘ might just do away with Cocktail this coming weekend. Cocktail’s Box Office Collections as of now stands at 68.25 Crores nett.