Natalie Dormer on The Hunger Games: Mockingjay (Part 1)
Actress Natalie Dormer has performed for various mediums of entertainment, be it theatre, television or the big screen, and has earned great success everywhere. The 32-year-old, who turned heads with her decision to shave off the left side of her luscious locks for her latest release, The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 1, has never shied away from experimenting with her on-screen appearance. The same goes for her choice of characters in films and television shows, as she has featured in a variety of them, ranging from Private Lorraine in Captain America: The First Avenger, Victoria in Casanova, Margery Tyrell in the popular series Game of Thrones, and now, in The Hunger Games: Mockingjay as Cressida, a young media-savvy rebel, who makes “propos” - a mix of viral advertising, on-the-fly news clips and inspirational messages, that is the only way for rebels to communicate with the outside world.
Excerpts from an interesting tete-a-tete with the English actress.
How would you describe Cressida, your character's mission in The Hunger Games?
Cressida is a documentary film maker, who has been given the job of creating propos, the package that will galvanize the revolution. So its a very specific task.
Your look in the film has attracted several eyeballs. What do you have to say about it?
Well, you can see that Cressida comes from the Capitol. I think the whole hairstyle and tattoo tells you that she is different kind of a Capitol resident, or maybe, she has this hangover from a previous existence that she had. So, that’s one of the reasons why Francis Lawrence and I chose to shave off half my hair, as opposed to all of it, because we thought it maybe a more stylistic choice that a Capitol resident would have made. Kurt and Bart (costume designers) are just incredible. Whatever I say will never be enough. They are extraordinary!
Once you got your look right (the half shaved head), what was going on in your mind?
Um, well! I was feeling a lot lighter. Also, spending less time in the shower (laughs). Well, to be honest, it was very liberating. As a woman, you know so much of aesthetic, cosmetics and all, you know. Our identity is bound up in our hair as a woman, and it is also considered to be a sense of attractiveness. So, it is kind of liberating, to just, kind of get rid of half of that. It changed my look dramatically, and voila! There she was - Cressida.
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| Natalie Dormer sporting the half shaved hairstyle at the Screen Guild Awards earlier this year |
How was it working with the director, Francis Lawrence?
Francis Lawrence was fantastic, because he gave me free range, to sort of, ad-lib a bit. You know, I did not specifically stick to what was scripted for Cressida. I felt like I had the control and could order my camera crew, ask Jen (Jennifer Lawrence) to start a line, stop a line, without her knowing I was going to do that. And that, I think, was very useful for both of us. I was literally standing next to her for nearly nine months you know, as a documentary film maker would. Like just don’t mind me, you know, just carry on. So, I mean, it was very interesting.
And what was it like to work with Jennifer Lawrence?
The energy on set was very buoyant and a lot of fun, We joke around most of the times. Jen has that energy, and so does Liam (Hemsworth) and Josh (Hutcherson). So, you sort of get sucked into that kind of fun in between takes quite easily. And, you need it on that kind of long intensive shoot days, especially with that kind of subject matter, to lighten the load a bit. It was a really good experience.
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Master Class with Ramona Braganza - Part One (Office Exercises)
Finally, the master class that you have all been waiting for! It's been a week since we started off the Fitness Month campaign on our website and we are so grateful to all our readers, because the response have been amazing. While starting off the campaign, we promised you a series of fitness demonstration and advice videos featuring a popular celebrity trainer. Well, here we go!
Diary of a Dancebee brings you Master Fitness Class, with a popular celebrity fitness trainer, straight from Hollywood. She is none other than, Ramona Braganza. That's right, the name that is trusted by not just fitness enthusiasts, but also the who's who of the International film and music industry including Halle Berry, Jessica Alba, Anne Hathaway, Ashlee Simpson among many others. We have got exclusive tips and exercise demo videos coming up on our YouTube channel, all this month, where Ramona will answer your queries and help you get fit, the healthy way.
The trainer has recently launched her book, Feel Fit Look Fantastic in 3-2-1, published by Harper Collins. Well, we have already finished reading it and Oh boy! What a wonderful and inspirational read it has been. Don't worry folks, we have got a detailed review of the book coming up soon.
This week in our Master Class sessions, we have got Ramona talking about Office Exercises.
On Twitter and Facebook, most of you asked me to question Ramona about quick exercises, that can be performed in between work, without any hardcore training equipment. Keeping in mind the crazy lifestyle that we all deal with (and despite of being all optimistic), not everyone can afford to take out a precious hour or two to train in the gym (ask me, spending twelve hours in office was no joke). So, here's Ramona teaching a few exercises, which if done regularly, can not only help in maintaining your shape, but will also help improve your posture. Watch!
Keep watching this space (and subscribe to our YouTube Channel) for more Master Class videos.
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The Dancebee
Mickey Mouse moves the Shahid Kapoor way
We recently saw how our favorite Disney character, Mickey Mouse, went the Indian way by turning into a auto-rickshaw driver and zoomed across the nation with an adorable elephant as his passenger. We saw several other videos where we saw him travelling to different countries, in unique garbs and fancy locations. But ladies and gentlemen, this time, the iconic mouse is all set to blow your mind. The moment I saw this video, I just couldn't my eyes off the creativity with which the folks at Disney have come up with this Bollywood mix.
People, here's presenting Mickey Mouse and his friends going the Bollywood way.
And hey Shanatics, this one is special for you, as Mickey is all set to step into Shahid Kapoor's shoes. Hear him sing "Tu Mere Agal Bagal," composed by Pritam and sung by Mika Singh, like a pro in this brand new video posted by Disney India.
And peeps, don't miss those moves.
And peeps, don't miss those moves.
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The Dancebee
The Dancebee
A/W '15 Favourites | Emporio Armani Eyewear
At a recent press preview organised by the awesome folks at Luxottica, I was quite impressed by some stunning new pieces launched by eye wear brands, including Emporio Armani, Prada, Versace among others. To start off our obsession, here are some of our favorite, lust worthy pieces from Emporio Armani's A/W 14-15 collection, straight off the runway, which celebrates Modern Balance, with unisex features and some formal elegance. While most pieces rock the minimalist trend, those looking for some sophisticated bling will also find some 'eye-candy' here.
1. Men's EA 2027
This stunning pair of metal sunglasses come in minimalist designs and an elegant contrast of colors. There is a two-tone contrasting mix of hues on the front edges. which looks very sexy. This beauty is available in two shades - black and gold with brown or burgundy lenses, or in a gunmetal color with brown lenses. Wear it with an army print or the good ol' leather jacket, and you are ready to be the center of attraction.
2. Women's EA 4040 Bejeweled
The large mother of pearl placed on both sides of the frames will add some opulence and sophistication to even a dull outfit. Chic, feminine and absolutely charming, this bejeweled pair also comes in another option, with pastel shades on the front and black temples, adding a contrast. Available pastel shades include opal white and opal light blue. Definitely a must have if you have a thing for pearls or just want the perfect pair of sunglasses for your lace or vintage print dresses.
3. Women's EA 4039
This gorgeous beauty comes with double bridge frames, acetate temples and a stunning front with havana hues. This is the perfect example of comfort meets style and safety, as the polarized lenses of this beauty provide 100 per cent protection. Enough to spruce up your formal apparel, this range by Emporio Armani comes in three varieties - black and havana with brown polarized lenses, dove grey and havana with brown polarized lenses, purple and havana with purple polarized lenses.
4. Men's EA 4034
Who doesn't love a stylish pair of reflective sunglasses with matte frames? Boys, you have got some serious variety to choose from in this range. The linear profile of this beauty is light, flexible and we love its distinctly square design. The colors in this are inspired by the Emporio Armani Men’s Autumn/Winter 2014/2015 collection. The available options include matte burgundy with grey lens, matte grey with grey mirrored lens, and matte blue with blue mirrored lens.
and now, for those who can't get enough of stylish opticle frames.
5. Women's EA 3040
This sophisticated pair of women’s optical frames are just what you need, in order those replace those boring metal frames. With elegant lines, optical textures, fine details and tortoise shell designs on the side, this frame spells class. They come in double layer acetate with a blend of havana and bright complementary colors, on both the temple and the front. These optic frames are available in three options, including black and havana, olive green and havana, purple and havana.
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I was a misguided youth who didn't know what to do in life - Saif Ali Khan | Exclusive Interview
Around the same time, last year, actor Saif Ali Khan was busy promoting Tigmanshu Dhulia's Bullet Raja. The film may have failed to hit the bulls eye, but the actor, who was appreciated for his performance, quickly moved on to his next project, Humshakals. This one too, unfortunately, failed miserably. But the suave Nawab that he is, Khan accepted the failure of his last two projects and gracefully moved on to promote his latest flick, Happy Ending, which has hit the cinema halls today. Apart from playing two roles in the film, Happy Ending also happens to be his production venture under Illuminati Films.
While talking to us on a quiet Saturday afternoon, at the good ol' Mehboob studios, Khan sounded extremely positive. "We are just bringing the real genre of romantic - comedy back, without any experiments. I am not just saying this because it is my film, but this is good stuff," he stated. Dressed in his casual best and a beret cap to go with an otherwise relaxed outfit (taking a cue from his look in the film, maybe?), Khan settled down to chat with us about his role in Happy Ending, working with Govinda, the sequel to Go Goa Gone and why he doesn't want to play second lead roles anymore.
I am curious to know about the two characters that you will be seen portraying in this film. How are different are they?
They are very different. Yudi is a writer who lives in Los Angeles. He is a lazy guy, who keeps getting stuck in some funny problem or another. In a comedy like this, you enjoy the character and his problems, because they don't appear drastic and hence, one doesn't take them too seriously. There is a little vulnerability to the character, which is different for a romantic-comedy, because is losing his job and money to a girl, who he later falls in love with. The second character, Yogi, is more of an alter-ego. So, the two have different rhythms of talking and several scenes are shot with the two of them together. So, while shooting the film, it was just me, but when you see the film, you will think of it as two different people having a conversation. It was great fun.
Was there a certain level of comfort while working with directors Raj Nidimoru and Krishna D.K after Go Goa Gone?
Oh yes! And its not because of Go Goa Gone, but because of the kind of people that we are. We connect to each other's sense of humor and well, are not very mainstream. But, the use of humor is quite mainstream. They are smart guys and I like working with them. Since our sense of humor is common, when they write the dialogue and I enact the scenes, the result is very natural. Nothing looks forced.
So, can we expect a sequel to Go Goa Gone anytime soon?
Yes, it will definitely make for a good sequel. We are still working on the script. I think, the whole zombie thing was a little alienated. So, we want the sequel to be a little more universal. Maybe, a more adult comedy.
How would you describe the experience of working with Govinda for the first time?
He is amazing and I personally believe that people will enjoy watching him on screen in this role. He is a genius where comedy is concerned. But, there is something special about working with him this time, because since the last time we saw him on screen, we are shooting films a little differently. The colors are brighter, the cameras have advanced, so he is looking better than ever. Also, dancing next to him in G phaad ke was an interesting experience, because he makes every piece of choreography look very easy and I really love watching him dance on screen. In fact, back in the 90s, we were supposed to work together in a project helmed by Sanjay Chhel. But just after two days of work, the film got shelved.
Yes, it (Go Goa Gone) will definitely make for a good sequel. We are still working on the script. I think, the whole zombie thing was a little alienated. So, we want the sequel to be a little more universal
You recently mentioned that you watch very few Bollywood films. True?
Yes. The reason is quite simple, because I think of it as work. I don't want to come back home and put on a Hindi film, after being on the sets of a Bollywood film all day. If I do, I can't enjoy it just like a film. I will end up looking at the technical aspects or just think, "Oh! Even we should do something like this." But, having said that, I love watching television and I live for films. I remember, as a kid in Delhi, I would make it a point to watch every single English film from my video library. Sajid (Khan) and I have that in common, as we have almost seen every single film, but then, he has seen the Hindi ones too. I haven't (smiles).
Since you loved watching films as a kid, was Bollywood always on the cards for you?
No, not at all. In fact, I was a misguided youth and wasn't a very good example. I wasn't serious about studies, nor did I know what I want to do in life. I wasting time and was more interested in partying, girls, than serious work. It maybe normal and fortunately for me, things worked out as I grew up. But, there was never a specific aim that, "hey, this is what I wanna do."
Any particular reason why you stay away from Masala films or entertainers?
I don't know. There are so many different types of films that are being offered today. But, I think I have an appeal in at least a niche that is quite wide. I remember Aditya Chopra telling me that the kind of stuff that I am doing is fit for a multiplex hero. Today, the multiplex hero is a big slot. So, it is difficult to judge. Personally, I like to maintain a balance of light-hearted and artistic films. Like, the period between 2005-2006 was very good, because I had films like Salaam Namaste, Parineeta and Omkara releasing around the same time. All of them belonged to different genres, but it wasn't like I didn't fit the bill. The milieu of a Bengali character Shekhar suits me just as well as the urban vibe of a guy like Nikhil Arora living in Australia. And of course, something like a Langda Tyagi is never going to happen again.
I was a misguided youth and wasn't a very good example. I wasn't serious about studies, nor did I know what I want to do in life
Will we see you collaborate with Shah Rukh Khan or Vishal Bhardwaj again, since you have delivered great hits with them in the past?
Well, right now, working with Shah Rukh Khan would mean settling down with a small role. I would rather play the main role in a film produced by Illuminati. I don't think I will ever get a role like the one in Kal Ho Na Ho, along with Shah Rukh Khan. It was almost my film. It took a lot of work, in order to get out of working as the second lead in films. It is okay for actors to feel important in our own universes. So, I don't want to go back to doing that. As far as Vishal is concerned, he has to write something that will take us beyond Omkara.
What's next for your fans?
I have got a film with Reema Kagti, which will be produced by Excel Entertainment. Then, there is also Phantom. And right now, I am looking forward to the response that Happy Ending receives.
I don't think I will ever get a role like the one in Kal Ho Na Ho, along with Shah Rukh Khan. It was almost my film
-- By Priya Adivarekar --
Step Up | Fitness Month Outfit Post
"Physical fitness is not only one of the most important keys to a healthy body, it is the basis of dynamic and creative intellectual activity." - John. F. Kennedy
Being born in a family, where your father is a fitness freak, is quite something. I am used to the everyday "Learn to push your limits and never give up" conversations. I have been brought up with the mindset that taking out even 15 - 30 minutes from one's busy schedule can work wonders for your body. I have grown up seeing my father do that and till date, continue to take inspiration from his "never say never" attitude. But in the last 15 months, I did play hide and seek with my self styled fitness regime, every now and then. Blame it on work (or the fact that we often make those "I am so tired, I can't even walk" excuse), but I did not enjoy missing out on my daily routine. To top it all, my food habits went on for a toss. I did feel guilty, but then, the work culture today doesn't give enough time to eat food on time, let alone exercise. The result? More stress, tiredness and that feeling of losing all my flexibility (especially my full split).
So, I decided to get back and ended up dedicating a tiny area in my room for my workouts. I personally believe that you don't need expensive gym plans and costly diets to get fit. If you have got the will, then the road to fitness can be in any form. You can take a walk, sign up for a dance class, indulge in some yoga or just pick up a few essentials to set up your own home friendly gym, where you can work out any time. There are days when I am swamped with work for 16 hours at a stretch. On such occasions, if I can't follow my self styled fitness regime, I simply put on the music and dance my heart out, after reaching home. Trust me, dance is one of the purest, simplest and one of the most effective ways to get fit. Other favorites are Yoga and Gymnastics. So in this case, its not about having time, its about making time, for your own good.
But hey, you need to have some patience, alright. Walking on any path and expecting quick results is not the right thing. Allow your body to get used to the workout and enjoy the process, instead of pushing yourself too much in order to achieve a coveted look. It might just affect you in the longer run and then what? An injury. So remember, don't exercise to get skinny. Its an unhealthy obsession. Exercise to stay fit for life. Also, stay away from diet fads that come and go like a breeze. Just eat to nourish your body enough and make sure that you eat everything in the right proportion. I maybe a fussy eater when it comes to a few veggies, but I don't starve myself, nor do I follow any diet. When you eat well and follow it up with the right workout, it will show. Nothing can stop you from looking good and feeling fantastic.
Every individual is different and needs a workout that suits their personality. Not everyone can follow the Paleo diet and become the next Tiger Shroff, okay? Treat exercise like a road to self discovery, because it indeed is one. As you begin to work out regularly and set specific goals, you realize your potential, limitations and the way your body is reacting to it. Some sets might work for you, others won't. After a few weeks, your body will automatically start giving you signals around your work out timings and push you to start training, even if it is for a few minutes.
Exercise is also the best stress reliever you can ever ask for. Workout and notice the glow on your face. Yes, it does add a lot to your beauty as well. So, your fitness regime, no matter how long or short, should be a part of your daily routine. Just like the way you remember to apply that moisturizer and use a lip balm. Don't treat fitness activities like a formal drill, make it a way of life.
If you still find it difficult to pull yourself towards the fantastic world of fitness, add fun elements and own it your way. Good fitness gear is one such part. Who said gym wear has to be dull and boring? Play with colors, bring on those funky track pants, experiment with colorful shoes and most importantly, invest in a good sports bra (in some fun colors, of course). Pick up a colorful bag, where you can pack your gym essentials. Make sure you have an attractive sports water bottle in that bag. Anything attractive is good enough to divert your attention. At least that way, you will remember to hydrate yourself with some H2O post workout.
Add fun a equipment like hula hoop or skipping rope to your daily regime. It not only breaks the monotony, but also keeps you charged up. Another aspect is the music. In case you work out in a gym and don't have the liberty to change the in-house music, carry an iPod and train like a beast on your favorite tunes. Those at home, blast those speakers with the best numbers. It will instantly add more energy and good vibes to your workout (Also, please avoid talking to people while working out. Focus and dedication is a must).
Well, there is a lot more to fitness than what I can explain in just one blog post.
And so, in order to promote the idea of a healthy mind, body and soul,
Diary of a Dancebee is excited and proud to celebrate Fitness Month.
Starting today, going all the way till December 20, we will be talking all things fitness, with a dash of health, food, beauty and of course, the other big F - fashion. With exclusive interviews, exercise regimes, fitness videos, the blend of fashion - fitness and tons of other exciting activities, we are quite sure that several readers will soon be motivated to walk this beautiful path of fitness and good health.
Keep watching this space and remember,
Good health is the real wealth. So, get started today. Tell yourself, nothing in life is impossible. If you want something, you gotta work hard to achieve it. The road maybe difficult, but the struggle is always worth it.
Outfit Details:
Top: Zara
Sports Bra: Nike
Track pants with sequins: Zara
Shoes: Nike Pink Flex 2014 Running Shoes
Watch: Swatch
Aviators: Ray-Ban
Location Courtesy: Spa Le Vie by L'Occitane, Mumbai
Love,
Dancebee
The 16th Mumbai Film Festival | MAMI 2014
While we were busy with the routine hop-skip and jumping between one fashion week to another, we just didn't how realize that it's Mid - October. Well, for film buffs in the city, October means just one thing - Mumbai Film Festival. Yes, its that time of the year again when cinema aficionados are offered a delightful bouquet of world cinema, ranging from Russian, French, Japanese to Indian regional language films and more. Our rendezvous with World Cinema started on Day 1 at Cinemax Versova this year, but boy, did the election delay create a frenzy at the registration desk or what! Nevertheless, the going was good and we thankfully reached Screen 2 to witness the legendary Akira Kurosawa's magic unfold on screen, just in time.
No one can shoot a film with great aesthetics, harsh locations and flawless casting the way Kurosawa did. After all, his films were known to have expensive production requirements. Having seen some of his work including Throne of Blood, Rashomon, High and Low, Yojimbo among others (and being a self confessed fan), I was excited to watch his 1975 masterpiece, Dersu Uzala. A simple film based on the 1923 memoir (by the same name) penned by Vladimir Arsenyve, it explores the life of a Goldi hunter named Dersu Uzala, his knowledge of the wild, relationship with Captain Arseniev and more. The basic plot shows how those living in the wild were content with their lifestyle, until civilization took over and changed their life forever.
But what stayed with me were the beautiful moments brought to life on screen by Kurosawa and his team of actors. Maxim Munzuk as Uzala is simply delightful! His relationship with Arseniev, essayed beautifully by Yuri Gantman, might just make you shed a tear or bring a warm smile on your face. When Uzala realizes that he cannot hit the perfect aim anymore, he is devastated, and tries to hit the aim at his own glove, before realizing that something is indeed amiss. Kurosawa blends in an individual's struggle with old age with perfection. It also shows that merely assuming that a wild or village folk is an illiterate ain't fair. They may not go to a traditional school, but they memorize, grasp and learn from everything that they encounter in their daily life. Uzala does that too, and that's how his journey with Arseniev begins. Kurosawa indeed made my afternoon with this magical offering!
Moving from one maverick to another (and from Screen 2 to Screen 3), Kurosawa's Soviet and Japanese co-production venture was followed by a French documentary (albeit uniquely presented) titled Mr Leos CaraX. This melange of interviews, clips from his popular films like Boy Meets Girl, Les Amants du Pont-Neuf among others and anecdotes made for an interesting watch. It may not be an in-depth, insightful offering, but definitely proved to be a perfect window for those, who have never experienced his work in the past. Carax is not your usual film-maker, mind you! He is known for films with dream-like imagery, physical humour and dark romance.
Just as the closing credits of Mr. X rolled out, I got ready for another marvellous cinematic experience. This time, in my mother tongue - Marathi. I stood in a never-ending queue, to watch a Marathi film with film buffs (it was a full house) who were just as excited as I was. Maybe it was the popularity of Marathi cinema that drew them here, or perhaps the fact that this film had won the Golden Bear at the Berlinale earlier this year. There was something enchanting about the stills that we had all seen. And just when the film opened, we all witnessed a spectacular visual treat. Well, I shall discuss the film in detail in a separate post.
The film festival continued to keep me entertained with some spectacular films. Right from The Umbrellas of Cherbourg to Court, Siddhant to Chauranga, Fever to Barf, it was like traveling through different countries with the help of an eclectic mix of films made for the global audience. Was I impressed? Oh boy, I sure am. Every year, the Mumbai Film Festival mesmerizes me with the bouquet of films presented by them and this year was no different. Each film has stayed with me for various reasons and has taught me a lot more about the way cinema works.
And now, I am sure all the fellow film buffs have begun the countdown to the 17th edition and are missing the daily walk between Cinemax and PVR ECX (with the schedule in their hand) already.
Love,
The Dancebee
Top 5 picks | MAWI X KOOVS collection
Yes, its here! The Mawi x Koovs collaboration that most stylistas were waiting for was finally launched yesterday and honestly, we can't stop lusting over a few pieces. While some items are yet to be launched (and are placed under the 'coming soon' section), some others are up there on the Koovs website, vying for your attention. For those of you who have just arrived, Mawi is a popular luxury accessory brand, led by the company's Creative Director Mawi Keivom. What we love about the collaboration is the fact that each piece is unique and despite the affordable pricing, does not compromise on quality.
Here's presenting a list of our Top 5 favorite picks from the Mawi x Koovs collection. They range from pretty drop earrings to a lust worthy crop top and an embellished clutch that must top your wishlist this party season.
1. Heart Droplet Earrings
2. Leaf Gem Chain Bracelet
3. Embellished Glitter Purse Clutch
4. Box Chain Heart Necklace
5. Necklace Print Long Sleeve Crop Top
We have already filled our cart with some of these beauties and can't wait
Love,
The Dancebee
Top 5 moments from Veer Zaara
Love it or hate it (really?), but you definitely cannot ignore the magic of late Yash Chopra's romantic saga, Veer Zaara. On this day, a decade back, the film clashed at the box office with Abbas - Mustan's Aitraaz, during the 'big' Diwali weekend. While Aitraaz got a good response among the masses, it was Veer Zaara that went on to win everyone's heart. While a few critics and audience members argued that the slow pace and stretched climax may have affected the film, die-hard romantics and fans of Shah Rukh Khan (and may I add, fans of Chopra sir) overlooked their analysis and went on to become of the last few films to celebrate a winning silver jubilee at the cinemas. Some of the romantic and emotional moments in the film were enough to melt any heart.
So, as fans of Veer Zaara across the world celebrate their decade long affair with this epic saga, we list our top 5 favorite moments from the film, that will stay with us for years to come.
Review | Bed Head TIGI Small Talk
While a whole bunch of ladies can't stop getting their hair straightened or colored, the other lot is ready to shell out any amount of money in order to get thicker, smoother hair with incredible volume. Well, hair rituals maybe a way out, but that cannot be your one stop solution. One needs a product that can not only add volume, but give some much needed life and energy to limp hair. The first time I came across Bed Head TIGI's Small Talk was at the LFW Apartment, during a makeover with the Bed Head team. This adorable little bottle may just be the magic potion you are looking for. So, we decided to try the Bed Head TIGI Small Talk for a fortnight and came up with an honest review.
Product: Bed Head TIGI Small Talk 3-in-1
Price: Rs 950
Quantity: 200 ml
What does it promise?: Thickifier - Adds body and volume,
Energizer - gives life to limp hair, Stylizer - Defines, separates and controls.
What works for us: This handy product comes in an adorable purple bottle, with a neon green pump (again, extremely handy). Anywhere between a pea or hazelnut size should be enough for hair below shoulder length. If you keep in mind the quantity, amount used and price, the product sure is value for money. We like how the product not only adds volume, but also makes your hair smooth. A normal blow dry after use should be enough to make the product work wonders. You will notice how your hair doesn't clump up. The light consistency of the product will not weigh your hair down, which means, it is perfect to use even during those hot, humid afternoons. Another win-win is that the product smells good, with a mix of grape and blueberry. Small Talk is a miracle product for limp, flat hair.
What doesn't work for us: Nothing to do with the product, but the lack of instructions on the bottle might be a problem for some. Maybe!
Verdict: During the review period, a pea sized amount was enough for my hair to look fuller and shinier throughout the day (after a normal blow dry). I stepped out for several interviews and meetings during the afternoon, but the humid weather didn't affect my hair, nor did the product make it greasy. The product didn't make my locks stiff, but did add a nice texture (despite the fact that I changed my hair style twice - thrice on some days). We highly recommend this magic potion, Small Talk, that does yield big benefits!
Ratings: 4.5/5
Love,
The Dancebee
I have always preferred comfort over trends - Boman Irani | Exclusive Interview
Being multifaceted is one thing. But being immensely talented and excelling in everything that you do is a rare feat. Actor Boman Irani falls gracefully in the second category. The fifty-four-year young actor, who recently tasted success with his impeccable portrayal of the local Parsi chocolate boy, Tammy, in Happy New Year, is all set to make heads turn at the upcoming edition of the Blenders Pride Fashion Tour. This time, Irani has stepped into a brand new role, that of a Style Blender (and speaker) at the fashion fiesta.
The frenzy around him at a recent preview of the five city fashion tour was for all to see, as people couldn't stop complimenting the actor for his performance and dapper red carpet event appearances. Post photo shoots and television interviews, the actor settled down for an exclusive chat with Priya Adivarekar, where he spoke about his idea of style and comfort, association with Blenders Pride Fashion Tour and how he also designs his character look for a film.
Could tell us about your association with Blenders Pride Fashion Tour in detail? This is the first time that you are taking on the role of a Style Blender.
Initially, when they called up to say that they wanted me to be a part of the fashion tour, I asked - why me? (smiles) That's when I began to understand the whole idea of this five city tour. Its not just about a fashion designer showcasing his work. The tour celebrates the blend of attitude, inner self, substance, respect and comfort with style. We (designers associated with Blenders Pride Fashion Tour, Irani and writer Chetan Bhagat) are not here to hawk for big labels and brands. Its all okay and to each his own, but the main idea is to educate the whole country about the real essence of Fashion, which is all about finesse, refinement and turning out well. Fashion has least to do with expensive clothes.
Is that your personal style mantra too?
Absolutely! I may be in a better position to afford labels now, but there was a time when I couldn't and I would still be a refined dresser. Its all a myth when people believe that fashion is all about glitterati. I personally believe that real fashion is all about being the best you can be, in the most pure way, within your needs and parameters.
Does comfort always find priority over trends in your personal wardrobe?
Oh yes! Comfort will always come first. For me, comfort doesn't necessarily have to do with only fitting or fabric. One should also see if they are feeling awkward in that garb. The question to ask is - Am I uncomfortable and feeling awkward? So, you need to pick the right color, fabric and fitting that not only suits your age, but also allows you to feel relaxed and presentable. People get excited while picking or wearing a suit. But, if the style doesn't match your personality, it will eventually reflect. I will keep looking at myself in the mirror and say, "Bhai! Yeh barabar hain kya?" But at the same time, I am not the kind who believes that pyjamas and track pants are the most comfortable outfits. I just feel that when your outfit is respectful and presentable at a particular event, you are and will feel comfortable. Like, there are times when I have to wear a particular outfit. Say for instance, a traditional wedding. In a situation like this, I may not be comfortable in that outfit, but I have to abide by the requirement. But, at least I feel comfortable with the fact that I am respecting and honoring the people who have invited me.
Comfort will always come first. For me, comfort doesn't necessarily have to do with only fitting or fabric. One should also see if they are feeling awkward in that garb
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| Boman Irani walks on the runway at the Happy New Year first look launch |
Does the same rule apply when you are at work?
Of course! I always tell myself, "I should dress up a little more correctly." Its not that I am sitting in a car or my home, I am at work. In between shots or post shoot, there will be some kids who would end up approaching me for an autograph or picture. For them, it could just be their first picture with an actor and hence, you need to make it special for them. You can't be looking shabby, sloppy or drab. Wearing unironed clothes or making a poorly dressed appearance would be disrespectful to the child's emotions and his picture/autograph. Following such rules is the real comfort for me. Same thing applies when I step out for red carpet events. You need to respect the fact that 50 photographers are waiting there to click your pictures. Also, your body languages needs to match your outfit. The way you stand also shows your comfort level.
While your event appearances are quite dapper, your characters often wear a different look.
None of my characters in films have had a dapper appearance. Every character requires a different touch. For example, let's take Virus (3 Idiots). Now, that guy is frozen in time. If I think, hey, let's make the character look smashing, that's like not staying true to the character. On the other side, you have got Tammy (Happy New Year) who loves all things fashionable, so he will stick to that.
In between shots or post shoot, there will be some kids who would end up approaching me for an autograph or picture. For them, it could just be their first picture with an actor and hence, you need to make it special for them
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| While Boman handpicked the outfits worn by Virus (right), he was also involved in creating the right look for Tammy (left) |
Do you have a say in the costume department, when the team is busy creating your final look for a film character?
Yes, there have been times when I have given inputs and decided my outfits for a particular character. It helps, because I have understood and internalized the character. Without sounding like I am giving you a lesson in acting (smiles), in Classic acting, you first work the internals, think, heart, thought processes, mind and then work your way outwards. The moment you understand that part, you will know what you need to wear. Like, if I am playing a corporate person and I rehearse in a pair of jeans and casual tee, trust me, my rehearsal will not go well. But, the moment I wear an outfit suitable for my character, the body language, walk, bearing and even the way you hold your chin, will be determined by the internals, which blend with the externals. And then, it works.
If you ask me, if you don't work on the internals, the externals will never work. Its not just about putting on some fancy clothes.
Any character portrayed by you whose look was designed by you?
Virus! For that character, I didn't work with any filmy tailor. We locked a local tailor, and I didn't even show him my face (laughs). Through instructions, I told him to make super high waist trousers, in drill (fabric) and use thread buttons (not the fancy ones). For the shirts, when I visited a shop to buy the material, the store manager kept taking me to the area where the most expensive stuff was stocked. I kept saying, I need the cheapest material. But that guy insisted and kept saying, "Yaar, aisa mat karo! If you buy the Rs 50 per meter material, what will my customers say? I'll show you the best shirting." I made myself very clear, that I would only buy the cheap fabric now, and would come back to buy the better ones for personal use later. So, everything that you see on Virus is handpicked by me. Even for Tammy, I sat with Farah and designed the entire look on my own. We tweaked the outfits in between, especially during the Dubai parts, because he should look like a traveler. So, we added hats and other accessories. But, the sling bag was Farah's idea. Forget films, even for my daughter's wedding, people got fancy togs for me. But I just said, throw it all off. I put together the same, simple suit. And just jazzed it up by wearing a new tie.
Virus! For that character, I didn't work with any filmy tailor. We locked a local tailor, and I didn't even show him my face
-- By Priya Adivarekar --
