The film which might perform well in the multiplexes, is more directed at the single screen audiences who might prefer this film more compared to the weekend’s other release Bombay Talkies.

John Abraham in a still from Shootout At Wadala Movie

Similar hype was created before the release of Jab Tak Hai Jaan. With the demise of Yash Chopra, the interest on his last directorial venture was sky rocketingly high. The team decided to cash in by using the hype correctly. A week before the film’s release, the advance bookings had begun in all the single screen theaters. Even the Salman Khan-Katrina Kaif starrer Ek Tha Tiger was met with a similar fate.

Shootout at Wadala is attempting to recreate the same vein of publicity for the film by attacking the single screens mainly. The predecessor of the same – Jab Tak Hai Jaan has to its credit more than 50% booked of its four shows in Bangalore. The advance bookings is important for SAW, as it has already risen the expectation of it by raising the bar of their hype!

The film’s prequel Shootout at Lokhandwala was a surprise hit despite bad reviews from most critics and it can be predicted that this John Abraham starrer will rightfully claim the domain of single screens in the most thriving circuits in the next few weeks to come!

However, now, in what appears to be a hasty and clever business manoeuvre, Eros International has announced the Japanese release of their 2007 Shah Rukh Khan blockbuster Om Shanti Om on 16th March, 2013.

Om Shanti Om Movie Japanese Poster

Titled Koi Suru Rinne, with Japanese subtitles, Om Shanti Om would get a 15-print release across Japan on March 16.

Hindi Cinema is becoming exceedingly popular in Japan and there is a need to make Bollywood more accessible to the Japanese audiences.

Ek Tha Tiger Movie Japanese Poster

Ek Tha Tiger, which released in Japan couple of days back, saw a great response complimented by cheering and clapping.

Don 2 Movie Japanese Poster

The Shah Rukh Khan, Priyanka Chopra starrer Don 2, is also scheduled to release later in this year in Japan. Don 2, is the fourth highest earning film at the overseas market earning - $12,550,000 and it will be interesting to see how this Farhan Akhtar directorial fares at the Japan Box Office.

3 Idiots Movie Japanese Poster

This Aamir Khan-R.Madhvan-Sahrman Joshi film, 3 Idiots, broke My Name Is Khan‘s record and became the highest grossing film overseas when released in China in December 2011. We wonder, what will happen when the film releases in Japan this year.

English Vinglish Movie Cantonese Poster

Well, yes this is not a Japanese Poster. But, this weekend English Vinglish is releasing in seven screens in Hong Kong with Cantonese subtitles, with 29 shows a day, this is the widest opening any Indian film has ever got in Hong Kong. What’s also interesting is they are also screening the film at ‘The Directors Club’ screen, which is like Red lounge and Hindi films are not released in these screens ideally

The screening saw director Kabir Khan in attendance along with eminent personalities such as the Vice Commissioner for International Affairs, Japan National Tourism Organization - Mr. Kato Takashi, Indian Ambassador to Japan - Ms. Deepa Gopalan Wadhwa and renowned Japanese actress - Sugimoto Aya.

The movie renamed in Japan as Tiger-The Legendary Spy won applause from the 300 strong Japanese and Indian viewers who were present at the event and it was clear that Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif and the tunes of the popular song Mashallah had won the audiences’ heart!

Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif (Ek Tha Tiger Movie Poster)

“I am really happy that my film Ek Tha Tiger which released in about 40 countries around the world very successfully is now coming to Japan and it’s the first mainstream release for a Hindi Film that is happening in Japan. I am really excited to be here,” Kabir Khan said.

Ek Tha Tiger premiered in Japan with the collaboration of Yash Raj Films and Nikkatsu Cooperation and it will be released in 30 screens across the country.

This will be followed by Yash Chopra’s Jab Tak Hai Jaan, starring Shah Rukh Khan, Katrina Kaif and Anushka Sharma releasing later this summer.

Salman Khan In Ek Tha Tiger Movie Poster

Yash Raj Films makes a major breakthrough in Japan – a significant territory that has eluded an Indian cinema presence in a big way until now. But things are about to change. And this change has been made possible by YRF tying up with Japan’s oldest major movie studio and entertainment company known for its film and television productions - Nikkatsu Corporation, who will be releasing the Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif historic blockbuster, Ek Tha Tiger, directed by Kabir Khan. The release is planned for 7th March i.e. today with a grand premiere in Tokyo. This will be followed by Yash Chopra’s Jab Tak Hai Jaan, starring Shah Rukh Khan, Katrina Kaif and Anushka Sharma releasing later this summer.

As part of the exciting week planned in Japan, a press conference was held yesterday in Osaka -’Bollywood Meets Kansai’, and was attended by Ek Tha Tiger Director, Kabir Khan, Head of YRF Overseas - Avtar Panesar and Head of YRF Production - Aashish Singh. The conference was hosted by the Consul General of India, Mr. Vikas Swarup (also the well-known writer of Q&A – a book which went on to be made in to Slumdog Millionaire) along with more than 30 representatives of leading media outlets, including  TV crews from MBS and KTV, who were present at the event.

The Consul General along with Kabir Khan and the esteemed guests of honour, touched upon the vibrant Indian Film Industry and its emergence as a major export from India and how the arrival of Indian Films is extremely thrilling for the Japanese people and the 26,000 Indians that live there. Kabir Khan spoke about how the film was made, the stars and the locations used in the film and his desire to shoot in Japan in the near future.

Aashish Singh was quite impressed by the locations he saw during his visit to Japan and Avtar Panesar stressed upon the business of Bollywood in the international Markets and the dynamic association of YRF with Nikkatsu, a reputed company that has a 100 year history. He also touched upon how this release is being watched closely not just by YRF but the entire Indian film industry.

Stay tuned for more as we get details of the premiere of Ek tha Tiger which took place today!

“Flying to Tokyo tonight for the release of ‘Ek Tha Tiger’ in Japan. I can’t wait to see Salman speaking Japanese on screen,” Khan tweeted Saturday.

“‘Ek Tha Tiger’ is releasing all over Japan. I will be travelling to Osaka, Kyoto and Tokyo for interviews and publicity. Looking forward to it,” he further posted.

Kabir Khan

Directors worth Rs.100 crore!

In this, Salman Khan bettered his own record set by Bodyguard as his Ek Tha Tiger entered the Rs. 100-crore club just within six days of release.

Filmmakers and distributors too are known to leave no stone unturned in their attempt to cross over to the right side of the much-coveted figure, say industry observers. And to recognise the importance of this coveted club and honour the entrants, the Zee Cine Awards 2013 introduced a new award, The Power Club Box Office. Winning this prestigious honour were nine directors whose films crossed the Rs.100-crore mark.

Bollywood star Priyanka Chopra — who herself is a part of two Rs.100-crore films this year, Agneepath and Barfi! — handed out the trophies.

Arbaaz Khan (Dabangg 2), Sajid Khan (Housefull 2), Kabir Khan (Ek Tha Tiger), Rohit Shetty (Bol Bachchan), Ashwini Dhir (Son of Sardaar), Karan Malhotra (Agneepath), Anurag Basu (Barfi!) and Prabhudeva (Rowdy Rathore) were recipients of this award. Late filmmaker Yash Chopra was posthumously awarded for his Shah Rukh Khan-starrer Jab Tak Hai Jaan.

Filmmaker Anurag Basu shared with the audience the tip given by producer Ronnie Screwvala. According to Anurag, Ronnie said, “No matter how many awards we win, keep getting this Rs.100-crore trophy back every year!” This had everyone in the audience in splits

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.

With this, the film has now left behind ‘Rowdy Rathore‘ to emerge as the second biggest money-spinner of the year gone by. Also, Salman Khan now has the record of seeing two biggest hits of 2012 against his name. Of course ‘Dabangg 2‘ would come nowhere close to ‘Ek Tha Tiger‘ (198 crore) but that is of more academic relevance than anything else.

Salman Khan and Sonakshi Sinha in a still from Dabangg 2 Movie

Strangely, a section of trade has questioned whether ‘Dabangg 2‘ is indeed as big a hit ‘as it is made out to be’. Well, any reasoning whatsoever couldn’t have been more misplaced than this! After all, the film is all set to reach a total of around 160 crores and emerge as a clear cut superhit. It has made profits for all involved. It has brought money into the industry. It has stayed stable after a hefty weekend. It has brought to fore a new director in the form of Arbaaz Khan. And last but definitely not the least, it has further consolidated Salman Khan’s place as the Numero Uno superstar in the country.

Frankly, if collections and overall outcome like these could raise doubts amongst a select few, nothing else could be even remotely convincing. As for setting high expectations and then spreading a sense of discontentment then well, there is no stopping dreaming big but at the end of the day and start making relative comparisons (in this case with ‘Ek Tha Tiger‘ and ‘3 Idiots‘). However as long as aforementioned factors work for all involved, such expectations hardly hold any weight.

Joginder Tuteja tweets @tutejajoginder

With some high octane action packed films to some masala potboilers and an out and out romantic drama, 2012 stands as a testimony to some of the beautiful gems when it came to Bollywood’s best on screen couples who scorched the B-town arena with some oh-so-lovely moments and some cute lovey-dovey romantic sequences.

Swaying away from the clichéd cupid struck couples, we present to you the best couples of 2012, who not only set the eyeballs rolling but were sensuous enough to infuse in blossoming love between their characters.

Saif Ali Khan – Kareena Kapoor (Agent Vinod)

Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor in a still from Agent Vinod Movie

A real life couple jumped into reel, yet another time playing the lead cast in Saif Ali Khan’s productional venture Agent Vinod. The film tanked at the box office without much of a trace but the couple emerged victorious in setting out as perfect emblems of love and romance to the new generation. Though the Bond meets Bourne espionage thriller lacked a coherent script and slickness in treatment, the film definitely showed how the two in-love lovebirds swayed to each other’s tunes. And one can never forget the Raabta number; so melodious and oh-so-romantic!

Ayushmann Khurrana – Yami Gautam (Vicky Donor)

Ayushmann Khurrana and Yami Gautam in a still from Vicky Donor Movie

The most refreshing pair on the block this year undoubtedly would be when the Punjabi meets the Bong charm in one of the biggest successes of the year, Vicky Donor! Exuberating freshness and vivacity in all the frames, Ayushmann Khurrana and Yami Gautam were so much in love and their brewing romance took the film to new heights. For more, there was Paani da to suffice!

Arjun Kapoor – Parineeti Chopra (Ishaqzaade)

Arjun Kapoor and Parineeti Chopra in a still from Ishaqzaade Movie

He was hot and she was feisty and when they met, there were firecrackers all around! A dynamite pair of sorts, these young Ishaqzaade‘s reciprocated love like no other. With a beautiful and admirable ending to the film that stands as a sign of togetherness and true love the couple was a perfect match! While Arjun Kapoor woo-ed the audience with his dimpled flamboyance, Parineeti Chopra’s feisty yet naughty nonchalance served more than a compliment to her love-zaada!

Akshay Kumar – Sonakshi Sinha (Rowdy Rathore)

Akshay Kumar and Sonakshi Sinha in a still from Rowdy Rathore Movie

When our desi Khiladi turned Rowdy Rathore Akshay Kumar fell for Sonakshi Sinha’s Chikni kamar, what resulted was in an epic love story. Fulltoo South Indian ishtyle! Though major chunks of the film dealt with Akki in grueling action sequences with Sona getting very little scope to deliver, they had the perfect fusion of love, spunk and notoriousness in their love. Courtesy, the couple of songs that featured both doing some crazily mad maneuvers!

Ranbir Kapoor – Priyanka Chopra (Barfi!)

Ranbir Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra in a still from Barfi! Movie

A pair whose chemistry failed to entice the masses in their last venture together must have been apprehensive about their on screen pairing while signing this film. But love got a new definition and chemistry got a new dimension when the physically disabled Barfi! fell in love with the autistic Jhilmil. What followed was an array of events but Anurag Basu’s script helped Jhilmil and Barfi! stand out as characters and make its way en route to the Bollywood Hall of Fame!

Salman Khan – Katrina Kaif (Ek Tha Tiger)

Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif in a still from Ek Tha Tiger Movie

Once upon a time, they were a ‘rumoured’ couple and now they are ‘just friends’. But the chemistry they shared in Ek Tha Tiger set the screens ablaze and the money ticking at the box office! Be it the groovy Mashallah number or the lovable Saiyaara melody, and obviously the die-to-watch-for action sequences, Katrina Kaif matched steps with Salman Khan in everything he did! Our very own demigod and her queen made hearts skip a beat with the love and passion flaming through their gleaming eyes.

Ajay Devgn – Sonakshi Sinha (Son Of Sardaar)

Ajay Devgn and Sonakshi Sinha in a still from Son Of Sardaar Movie

A hilariously funny act and an even more hilarious dialogue delivery made Son Of Sardaar almost a painful enjoyable comedy, but what infused life into the film was the, again, hilarious cupid struck couple Ajay Devgn and Sonakshi Sinha. The age old formula was twisted and love at first sight worked wonders as Ajay and Sonakshi made heads spin and stand out as a couple, in a film that was low on content, except an enviable comic caper act by Juhi Chawla!

Shah Rukh Khan – Katrina Kaif (Jab Tak Hai Jaan)

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

He is 47. She is 28. But their nineteen year age difference was shut when passion and compassion took over the two actors, on a ride for an unforgettable journey in search of love. Yash Chopra’s last romantic drama was classic yet contemporary but the chemistry that the lead pair Shah Rukh Khan and Katrina Kaif shared throughout turned it into a masterpiece. It was just one look in the eyes and we were all floored. When they grooved and gyrated to the peppy Ishq Shava, we watched with mouths wide open and the intimate scenes including the famous SRK kissing scenes were a lot more to deliver! Love is forever, love remains Jab Tak Hai Jaan!

Salman Khan – Sonakshi Sinha (Dabangg 2)

Salman Khan and Sonakshi Sinha in a still from Dabangg 2

An on screen couple that had ignited a lot of fire in the first edition of Dabangg is back with an even more interesting Dabangg 2. With Sonakshi Sinha getting lot more than mouthing a single dialogue and just standing as a show piece this time, family man Chulbul Pandey’s love for his ladylove Rajjo is palpably visible in the sweet ‘Cooker ki seeti’ dialogue promo and in the bike ride sequence of Saanson Ne. With the film releasing in a day, Salman and Sonakshi are all set to create thunderstorms with their portrayal of chemistry in B Town! We so agree!

What results into is a series of masaledaar and at times, slick action frames blend into a typical pot boiler that keeps us glued to the edge of our seats and how!

Here is the list for the best Action Films for 2012:

Agneepath

Sanjay Dutt and Hrithik Roshan in a still from Agneepath Movie

Taking a cue from the 1990 classic, Karan Johar took off the grand route to celebrate his father’s film like never before with Agneepath. Kancha Cheena here was a lot more menacing, dangerous and deadly and the action sequences devised by Abbas Ali Moghul kept the pace of the film running just appropriate. The climax scene, the Fight to Finish between Hrithik’s Vijay Dinanath Chauhan and Sanju Baba’s gory Kancha Cheena was top notch but it was the exciting battle between Vijay and Rauf Lala (Rishi Kapoor) that we pick!

Agent Vinod

Saif Ali Khan in a still from Agent Vinod Movie

A slick, stylish romcom agent thriller, made on the lines of Bond and Bourne was just an Indianised version of the tow, but one lacking a good plot. While Saif made everyone go itchy with the 242 suspense, it was only Peter Heins action packed stunts, bike ride, car chases and multiple fight sequences that made Agent Vinod look the way it aimed to be. Nothing too good about this movie, the action was a lot more stylish, excruciating and deft!

Rowdy Rathore

Akshay Kumar in a still from Rowdy Rathore Movie

Typical Southern masala, Prabhu Deva’s Rowdy Rathore, like all his other flicks was a chuckle of too many bloody action scenes and bland emotions. But Mahinder Verma’s raw action gifted Akshay Kumar with a fresh new slice of Life, just what Wanted did to Salman Khan. Some totally impossible but energetic and laborious hot shots stamped on the rowdiness quotient of the film, thereby sailing the film through with an easy breezy 130 crore knock!

Ek Tha Tiger

Salman Khan in a still from Ek Tha Tiger Movie

While everyone went gaga over Salman’s return to films almost after a year, one thing that people failed to appreciate was that Ek Tha Tiger was less a Salman film, and more a Conrad Palmisano film. The film, with a first-hand coherent plot (thanks to Kabir Khan) was again a love story of an agent, but more than romance, Ek Tha Tiger was overloaded with some polished and uber cool stunts with Katrina Kaif defining her status as Bollywood’s number 1 action heroine, doing some super stunts with convinced ease and Salman, as usual rocked the floor, and made his through a war of ceetees! What an advantage of having a Hollywood action expert, that too, one straight out of Sylvester Stallone’s books, who made the Bourne series look so snappy!

Son Of Sardaar

Ajay Devgn in a still from Son Of Sardaar Movie

Ajay Devgn put his action genes to work as he himself took over the reins as the action co-coordinator for his production venture, just the way his father, ace action director Viru Devgan did. Planning the actions, just the way the character of Jassi Randhawa needed, putting in dollops of humour in this madcap saga of comical vendetta. Be it the achaar sequence, or the animated versions of the epic battle, it was the stupidly infectious yet laughable action scenes that added to the film’s almost deadpan humour. Vengeance seriously was funny, courtesy a certain Devgn superstar!

Dabangg 2

Salman Khan in a still from Dabangg 2 Movie

The heavyweight of the lot, the ultimate biggie that set tongues wagging for more this Christmas, Salman’s Dabangg 2 did a lot of breakage to ultimately break open some box office records, yet again. Playing the adorable yet fierce cop Chulbul Pandey, Salman broke some laws and few more jaws amidst a lot of crank calls, creating immediate audience frenzy. Anal Arasu designed the action which gave in an adrenaline rush, putting in the perfect concoction of masala with power! Be it the opening rescue scene or the shirtless, err effortless climax sequence, Sal-man was the new Indian superhero born!

‘Ek Tha Tiger‘ had created a new record for first three days collections of 57 crores. Now ‘Dabangg 2‘ has managed to rake in 63.6 crores. This is still in the top of the league as competition for the third and fourth best are far away. Salman has shown once again that in the current scenario, he is his own competition.

Salman Khan in a still from Dabangg 2 Movie Stills

What is notable is the fact that ‘Ek Tha Tiger‘ had released on Independence Day and carried a major advantage. Moreover, more than half of these record collections had come on its first day itself. On the other hand ‘Dabangg 2‘ opened at around 21 crore mark and the collections remained around the same lines on Saturday before havoc was created on Sunday. Now it has to be seen that whether ‘Dabangg 2‘ would eventually turn out to be Salman’s highest grosser. ‘Ek Tha Tiger‘ had managed 190 crores for itself but first and foremost ‘Dabangg 2‘ needs to cross 145 crores total of ‘Dabangg’, something which is quite feasible and should be possible within two weeks.

Whether that would turn out to be the case and when are all speculations but one thing is for sure that Salman has yet again managed to find audience for himself and in the process, a fifth straight success in a row after ‘Dabangg‘, ‘Ready‘, ‘Bodyguard‘ and ‘Ek Tha Tiger‘, hence consolidating his position as a Number One superstar in the country.

One has to credit Arbaaz Khan for delivering a successful film amidst major hype and expectations. As is the case with all major films, there are more detractors willing to pull you down and this was no different in case of Arbaaz and his film. However he stuck to his convictions and put together a film which was always going to be akin to walking a thin rope. He has made a huge kick-start as a director and it would be interesting to see how he shapes his career from this point on. As for Sonakshi Sinha, she is riding a wave and now has third 100 crore biggie in the making after ‘Son of Sardaar‘ and ‘Rowdy Rahore‘ this year.

Actor Imran Khan has been nominated for his acting in Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu and Anushka Sharma has been nominated for her work in Jab Tak Hai Jaan.

Others competing in the worst actor (male) category are Ajay Devgn for Son of Sardaar and Bol Bachchan, Sanjay Dutt for Agneepath, Siddharth Malhotra and Varun Dhawan for Student Of The Year. Akshay Kumar’s name too figures in this list for Housefull 2, Rowdy Rathore, Joker and Khiladi 786.

Apart from Anushka, those nominated for the worst actress trophy are Deepika Padukone and Diana Penty for Cocktail, Farah Khan for Shirin Farhad Ki Nikal Padi, Alia Bhatt for Student Of The Year and Sonakshi Sinha for all her films this year.

Shirish Kunder’s Joker will compete in the worst film category along with Housefull 2, Son Of Sardaar, Khiladi 786, Dabangg 2 and Jab Tak Hai Jaan.

Salman Khan in a still from Dabangg 2 Movie

The nominees for worst director are Shirish Kunder for Joker, Arbaaz Khan for Dabangg 2, Karan Johar for Student Of The Year, Kabir Khan for Ek Tha Tiger and Sajid Khan for Housefull 2.

The numbers nominated in the most irritating song category are “Chinta ta chita chita” (Rowdy Rathore), “Son of sardaar” (Son of Sardaar), “Anarkali disco chali” (Housefull 2), “Disco deewane” (Student Of The Year) and “Hookah bar” (Khiladi 786).

The nominations of the most atrocious lyrics are “Ishq wala love” (Student of the Year), “Halkat jawani” (Heroine), “Bipasha Bipasha” (Jodi Breakers), “Pon pon” (Son Of Sardaar), “Chinta ta chita chita (Rowdy Rathore) and “Hookah bar” (Khiladi 786).

The nominees for worst sequel are Dabangg 2, Housefull 2, Jannat 2, Jism 2, Raaz 3, Kya Super Kool Hain Hum, Bhoot Returns and 1920 Evil Returns.

There is another category– Why Are You Still Trying? Award, which has Karisma Kapoor, Chandrachur Singh, Aftab Shivdasani, Shiney Ahuja, Prachi Desai and Jackky Bhagnani as nominees.

The awards will be announced in March.

Let’s take a sneak peek into this year’s nomination for Koimoi’s ‘Best Poster 2012’ crown.

Agneepath:

Hrithik Roshan In Agneepath Movie Poster

The year started on the Big Bang note with a power packed poster from the Karan duo, as they took the pictorial romancing road catching Priyanka Chopra and Hrithik Roshan sharing an up close and personal intimate moment with each other through the camera lens. The other one was a bigger hit with the face off between Hrithik’s Vijay Dinanath Chauhan and Sanjay Dutt’s menacing Kancha Cheena act. And another with the angry young ‘Vijay’s’ solo poster. What added to the gravitas? The fiery and feisty inclusion of the burning Fire in the backdrop!

Vicky Donor

Ayushmann Khurrana In Vicky Donor Movie Poster

A film that crossed the traditional barriers, bringing in a sensational but deliberately hidden issue to the forefront, Vicky Donor scored huge on its first look. Ayushmann Khurrana who calls himself ‘Lakhon mein ek’ for valid reasons openly confessed: ‘I Am a Sperm donor’ with his various ‘roops’ all behind him and guess what, The ‘O’s of Donor had a lot to tell! Ahem.

Kahaani

Vidya Balan In Kahaani Movie Poster

A pregnant Vidya Balan, a wife entangled in her earnest voyage on a relentless search for her lost husband standing against the busy city life and streets of Kolkata as the backdrop, Sujoy Ghosh’s Kahaani was a mesmerizing watch from the first frame, the first look! Vidya emblemized and epitomized Ma Durga, the Goddess of Strength with a beautiful graphic design transforming the usually sweet, docile Lolita to a consort of a battleship. We loves!

Housefull 2

Boman Irani, Mithun Chakraborty, Rishi Kapoor, Randhir Kapoor, Shazahn Padamsee, Ritesh Deshmukh, Asin Thottumkal, Akshay Kumar, Zarine Khan, Shreyas Talpade, Jacqueline Fernandez And John Abraham In Housefull 2 Movie Poster

Sajid Khan is a man of words, we must admit; when he promised for fun worth a dozen in his mad cap comic caper, he delivered just what he sought for. The film was a laugh riot and the poster, boisterous! With everyone from the veterans like Mithunda and Chintu Kapoor to the actresses like Asin and Jacqueline Fernandez, Zarine Khan and our loved Khiladi Kumar, Riteish Deshmukh, John Abraham under one shade, the poster was magnanimously a peek-a-boo into the madness that awaited!

Rowdy Rathore

Akshay Kumar In Rowdy Rathore Movie Poster

Akshay Kumar, the “Faulad ki Aulad” attempted his hand at another masala action comedy, another South Indian remake in his rebellious avatar with a poster as rambunctious as Rowdy Rathore. Moreover the poster punch came with a hand painted look and seemed to be for the masses, by the masses, from the people who belonged to the masses.

Ishaqzaade

Arjun Kapoor And Parineeti Chopra In Ishaqzaade Movie Poster

Another youthful film that made a huge impact was Ishaqzaade. With such a gripping plot and the effervescent chemistry and tiff between the two lead characters aptly portrayed with the poster where a feisty Parineeti Chopra poses in Arjun Kapoor‘s arms, with a fearless look.

Jism 2

Sunny Leone And Randeep Hooda In Jism 2 Movie Poster

Bold, sexy and completely vivacious, Jism 2 set new standards in the territory of posters by taking the whole nation on a stormy roller-poster ride! Raunchiness got a new definition and Seduction got a new dimension when the makers released the first look poster of the film showing a completely nude anonymous model showing her assets, covered in a stretch of white satin cloth. The poster went viral, crowd went beserk as the film makers stamped onto what to expect out of the first Sunny Leone starrer Hindi film. Results were stunning as the film, although with a poorly written script, garnered the necessary moolah, courtesy the tantalizing much-expected skin show. Here’s another steamy poster of Miss Leone getting intimate with Randeep Hooda.

Ek Tha Tiger

Salman Khan And Katrina Kaif In Ek Tha Tiger Movie Poster

The story of an Indian intelligent agent, Tiger aka Salman Khan falling prey to the lovely and gorgeous Katrina Kaif was always in the news from its announcement, but once the digital poster released, there was an habitual mass hysteria, after all its a Salman Khan film! Set against the backdrop of a city under threat and helicopters flying all around, Tiger shuns the world with his silhouetted appearance along with a gun in one hand and Kat staring fearlessly behind him. The poster reminded many of the numerous PC games we play: from Max Payne to Assasin’s Creed, ETT had it all.

Raaz 3

Emraan Hashmi And Bipasha Basu In Raaz 3 Movie Poster

With the dusky damsel, the evil Bipasha ‘Shanaya’ Basu enveloped by spooky hands served the best poster for a film belonging to this genre. While Bipasha’s oomph and the skimpy outfit made the crowd go ‘Oo-la-la’, Emraan’s blood red eyes did all the talking.

Barfi!

Ileana D’Cruz, Ranbir Kapoor And Priyanka Chopra In Barfi! Movie Poster

The most light hearted yet the most touching film of the year, Barfi! opened to rave reviews after its first look was revealed. The poster that captured the Kapoor rockstar in his different avatars served for a fun outline of the character Murphy- the man of troubles, from the film. Being chalu, loved, charming, happy, and crazy and most importantly Being Barfi became the new flavour of the season. And how we adored him! Later, the makers also unveiled a poster featuring Ranbir sitting on  a bench between ‘Jhilmil’ Priyanka Chopra and the sweet lady Ileana D’Cruz.

OMG Oh My God!

Akshay Kumar And Paresh Rawal In OMG Oh My God! Movie Poster

The Kanjibhai versus God battle was taken to new heights with a stunning poster of sorts, in the form of OMG: Oh my God’s first poster. While Akshay played the Kishan Kanhaiya in disguise, the modern day treatment was effectively visible in the way Akki, the God was handed over a cosmopolitan bike as his ‘vahan’, Paresh Rawal’s Kanjibhai mocked the unnecessary and gibberish superstitious social beliefs at large.

Student of The Year

Sidharth Malhotra, Alia Bhatt And Varun Dhawan In Student Of The Year Movie Poster

Two hot dashing dudes, one smocking hot diva, and an interwoven story of Love, Friendship, Life and Competition was the base for Student of The Year’s posters. The poster was brilliantly chic and was efficacious in bringing out KJo’s larger than life depiction of college verve, harking back to the Kuch Kuch era! Oh-so-Hot, we almost melted!

Jab Tak Hai Jaan

Shah Rukh Khan, Katrina Kaif And Anushka Sharma In Jab Tak Hai Jaan Movie Poster

Torn apart from pages of Major Samar Anand’s life, this Yash Chopra classic romantic saga, unfortunately his last had a masterpiece in the making. Yes, we are talking about the poster that created a huge frenzy on the day of its release. Featuring the lead stars of the film, the poster effectively captured the two sides of Shah Rukh’s character: the cute loverboy as well as the strong army officer laced with oodles of attitude. With another sensational poster featuring the strong and fierce army officer with stubble on a bike with a backpack, Jab Tak Hai Jaan is a mesmerizing imagery with stunning visuals, one that remains a Yash Chopra trademark.

Son Of Sardaar

Ajay Devgn In Son Of Sardaar Movie Poster

The first poster featured Ajay Devgn entering through a majestic doorway in a Patiala Sikh makeover. A thorough mark of genius graphic designing could be apparent in another poster as almost half a dozen tried to get hold of Ajay Devgn, the Sardar who tries to run away with our desi-femme-fatale-turned-Punjabi-kudi Sonakshi’s picture and what leads to is an entailment for Life! Aptly delineated for a mad comic cracker like this, the Poster definitely made Vengeance look extremely funny! You bet.

Talaash

Kareena Kapoor, Aamir Khan And Rani Mukerji In Talaash Movie Poster

With the top cop protagonist standing against the backdrop and the backlash of an entire city, troubled with some serial accident cases, the Talaash posters grabbed quite a few eyeballs. Alongside, a pensive Rani Mukherjee and a suspicious Kareena by the side added to the dash of suspense in this Aamir Khan thriller. Having an uncanny resemblance to Balan’s Kahaani posters, debates on its originality came as eruptions within moments. And guess what, the answer did lie within!

Khiladi 786

Akshay Kumar from Khiladi 786 Movie

The poster in itself was a comeback of sorts as India’s biggest action superstar was back to where he belonged, playing Khiladi! Decorated with colours of all sorts, from the lighter ones to the shocking neons and the too-much-of-green, Khiladi 786 posters stamped upon the masala that the film promised on. With the red lined aviators and the kada in hand, Akshay’s hand packed in the perfect punch.

Dabangg 2

Salman Khan In Dabangg 2 Movie Poster

All it said was ‘Here comes Chulbul Pandey’ and the four words were enough to create a sensation in the industry. Salman Khan, who is a phenomenon himself today, struck a Chulbul pose in his mustached archetype, adorning his famous goggles and the thaanedar uniform. And the bullet fire drove millions crazy and the attitude robbed several hundreds of their hearts. The Dabangg 2 poster did make a statement: Pandeyji is here to stay and how! We agree, without a hitch!

Now that almost all the movies are out, and all posters are available on the Internet, take a glimpse of all the nominated posters and choose the best of the best for the coveted crown.

As we say it, let the best poster walk away with the cake! Rain votes for your favourites.

Said Salman Khan, “I haven’t watched Talaash yet. But my father has watched it. And he has loved the film. He loved Aamir’s work. He apparently spoke to Kareena and complimented her for her work in the film.”

Speaking about breaking records of Ek Tha Tiger, Salman said, “I don’t know about breaking records and stuff. But, if the film is good, I hope it does break Ek Tha Tiger‘s record. But anyhow, I want to see the film. Aamir had texted me about the screening of the film. However, I was stuck in Dabangg 2 promotion and recording and thus couldn’t watch it.”

Salman Khan talks about Aamir Khan’s Talaash

Coming to the upcoming releases, we have Akshay Kumar’s Khiladi 786 and Aamir Khan’s Talaash that will surely make good business at the Box Office. Khiladi 786 has created quite a good hype amongst the fans and we believe that the single screens would be the one to lend a helping hand for the film to get a place in the 100 crore club. Hope it doesn’t turn out to be another Joker!

Knowing Mr. Perfectionist Aamir Khan’s penchant for good content in his films, it will be the Multiplexes that will find a way to the 100 crore club for Talaash.

Coming towards the end of December, the Salman Khan starrer Dabangg 2, which is scheduled to release on 21st of the month, will undoubtedly or rather blindly cross 100 crore mark. Salman has ruled the 100 crore club consistently since few years now, and his upcoming film Dabangg 2 will be no exception to it.

OMG Oh My God!, Bol Bachchan and Cocktail will surely be evicted from this list post Talaash, Son Of Sardaar and Dabangg 2‘s release.

Ek Tha Tiger, Khiladi 786 and Son Of Sardaar Movie Posters

In Koimoi Top 10 Indian Movies 2012, Salman may end up with 2 movies in Top 2 position i.e. Ek Tha Tiger at No. 1 position and Dabaangg 2 at No. 2. Whereas, Akshay Kumar may have 3 movies in his credit – Rowdy Rathore, Housefull 2 and Khiladi 786. Others including Hrithik Roshan (Agneepath), Shah Rukh Khan (Jab Tak Hai Jaan), Ajay Devgn (Son Of Sardaar), Ranbir Kapoor (Barfi!), and Aamir Khan (Talaash) will have single movies in their kitty.

To summarise, all the Top 10 movie list will be occupied by 100 crore club members. Take a look at the current list and the projected list here below:

Koimoi.com Bollywood Box Office – Top 10 Indian Movies 2012

CURRENT LIST (all-India net collections) (in Rs. crores)

***EXPECTED LIST*** By December 2012 (all-India net collections) (in Rs. crores)

Having 21 Overseas Box Office Hits to his credit, SRK’s Jab Tak Hai Jaan has earned 61.50 crores in 13 days at the overseas box office. Whereas, Ek Tha Tiger  has an overseas  lifetime collection of approx 60 crores in its kitty.

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

When it comes to the Overseas Box Office collection, Shah Rukh Khan has always lived up to the expectations and his films do wonders out there without fail.

Take a look at Shah Rukh Khan’s overseas filmometer for your reference:

Look Feminine, Urbane, and Romantic Like Katrina in JTHJ

Katrina Kaif is all that a Yash Raj banner heroine is expected to be – romantic, dreamy, uber-feminine, and superlatively beautiful. JTHJ offers a stark contrast to her previous flick Ek Tha Tiger when it comes to Katrina’s ensembles, and it certainly looks like a pleasant change to us fans of fashion. I am particularly smitten by her magically charming maxi dresses and gowns – the white one with subtle lavender prints in the Saans song is a style wonder!

And then, a snowy setting and Katrina wearing a long peach dress/skirt with a red quilted crop jacket with fur trimmings is right on my agenda for winter shopping. The outfit is a clear demonstration of how one can feel warm and look stylishly feminine both at once – time to stow away the boring everyday pants and embrace the maxi skirt and fur jacket or a wrap.

Katrina Kaif In Jab Tak Hai Jaan Movie Stills

The burnt orange Burberry trench coat reminds me a little of Audrey Hepburn’s orange topcoat in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, yet I like it better on our Bollywood beauty Katrina!

Katrina Kaif And Shah Rukh Khan In Jab Tak Hai Jaan Movie Stills

So if you want to look urbane-chic, smart, and sophisticated while being timelessly graceful, just wear the pieces in your wardrobe like Katrina does in JTHJ – frankly, all it takes is a bit of imagination, another bit of aesthetic layering, and a small bit of space in your closet holding some pretty dresses, a trench, knee-high boots, and little accessories for added definition.

P.S. For the sequences shot back home in India, Katrina is seen in some pretty embroidered salwar-kameez and saris which give her wardrobe quite a typical YRF finishing touch.

Anushka as Akira: The Cool-Tough-Sporty Girl

Anushka’s wardrobe in JTHJ is sure going to be an inspiration for all the tomboyish young ladies out there who’d rather be ready-at-the-moment to conquer the world in combat boots and cargoes than sit pretty in a frock. She is playing a documentary maker who works at Discovery Channel, and definitely looks the bit with fuss-free clothes, sneakers, androgynous aviators,a Canon camera and an ultra-portable Intel laptop.

Anushka Sharma In Jab Tak Hai Jaan Movie Stills

I love the cargo and tank top outfit teamed with a literal animal print scarf that adds just a tinge of dressiness to the carefree appearance – a look that any girl can don and rock with ease.

Anushka Sharma In Jab Tak Hai Jaan Movie Stills

The Challa Has Our Hearts Swaying – a Peek into SRK’s JTHJ Avatar

Shah Rukh Khan In Jab Tak Hai Jaan Movie Stills

While ladies are the ones who catch the spotlight first, it would be grave injustice to leave the men out while discussing the wardrobe of the most awaited film of 2012. My eye for fashion that never sleeps has noticed some nice things about SRK’s looks in JTHJ that well deserve to be mentioned here! I loved watching him through the movie in his boyish avatar. The moustache was no disappointment either. Military uniforms and adventure gear from Wildcraft completed Shah Rukh Khan’s JTHJ look as an army officer; well, men in the forces have always had a magnetic appeal for us girls, and when the king-of-romance, SRK, plays one, we just can’t help swooning.

Agneepath, Ek Tha Tiger, Rowdy Rathore and Bol Bachchan Movie Posters

Koimoi has classified movies based on the below parameters:

Hit: Film which doubles the investment; Super-Hit: Film which more than doubles the investment; Average: Film which only recovers investment; Plus: Film which recovers investment & yields some profit; Flop: Film which loses 50% or more of investment; Losing: Film which does not recover the investment but loses less than 50% of it.

Based on these parameters, Koimoi has established that the following movies has more than just doubled the investment. We have listed starting from the highest to lowest, ranking based on estimated multiples in Returns of Investment.

Kahaani, Vicky Donor, English Vinglish and Barfi! Movie Posters

The Complete Box office table for 2012 can be checked at: Box Office Movies 2012. Also koimoi.com has compiled a list of the 100 crores club and also Koimoi Top 10 – Box Office India 2012 for your ready reference.

MKS tweets at @mksmukulsharma

Shah Rukh Khan and Katrina Kaif from Jab Tak Hai Jaan and Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif from Ek Tha Tiger Movie

Comments an insider, “Despite enjoying the best strike rate in Bollywood as far as delivering hits was concerned, she was missing that one weapon in her armour – a 100 crore hit. Call it a necessarily evil but this club has pretty much turned out the talking point for the best and the biggest of film personalities out there. Katrina Kaif came precariously close to that in Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara and Raajneeti but had to bow down in the 90s. Now that she has ended up scoring a near double century with Ek Tha Tiger, one would expect her to be all smiles. After all the monkey is off her back.”

However question Katrina and she refuses to term it as a ‘huge monkey’ off her back. On the contrary she adds that as an actress, what counts for her is the fact that there are successful films of varied degree being delivered with existing superstars and the ones who would be one tomorrow.

“I disagree with such talks about figures and clubs. There are certain films that merit your growth as an actor and allow you to show a different facet of your talent. I may not have a Shah Rukh or a Salman as your co-star in every film. Yes, such a pairing does promise a success but then you have to deliver with others as well who may not have a huge medium to succeed today. You have to look at your career in totality. So when a Mere Brother Ki Dulhan does so well with Imran Khan, who is relatively newer, you have reasons to be elated as well. All these things give me good enough satisfaction”, concludes Katrina.