In a shocking turn of events, actress Sridevi passed away last night. The legendary star, along with her family members, was in Dubai to attend a wedding. While initially, reports suggested that the actress suffered a massive cardiac arrest. However, it was only after some investigations and procedures in Dubai that the cause of her demise was stated to be 'Accidental Drowning'.

According to a news report on Indian Express, brother-in-law Sanjay Kapoor confirmed the news about Sridevi's demise. He further added, "I just landed here. I was in Dubai, and now I am flying back to Dubai. It happened around 11:00 - 11:30. I don't know anymore details yet." The actress was in Dubai to attend Mohit Marwah's wedding and was accompanied by husband Boney Kapoor and daughter Khushi. She was 54.

 With her untimely death, the actress has left behind a legacy that is simply unmatchable. The Padma Shri awardee was India's First Female Superstar in the Hindi film industry, and went to earn awards, accolades and millions of hearts across the globe. Her contribution to cinema is nothing less than a glorious chapter. In a career spanning multiple decades, Sridevi worked in several renowned films across industries and languages, including - Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam. She made her first appearance as a child artist at the age of four. Tamil film Moondru Mudichu marked her first role as an adult, where she was paired opposite two of South India's biggest superstars - Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan. Sridevi delivered some of Hindi cinema's finest gems in the 80s and 90s. With films like Chandni, Sadma, Lamhe, Mr India, Chaalbaaz among others, the actress had cemented her position as a Superstar and went on to deliver super hits, that too as the lead protagonist in most films. Of course, she was a rage down South and delivered smashing hits. She is one of the few female actors to have a great success ratio across various industries. 

The actress starred in Judaai (1997) as Kajal - a middle class wife with big dreams. Her effortless portrayal earned her rave reviews and multiple nominations. Sridevi filmed portions of this film while being pregnant with her first child. However, the actress decided to take a break after the child - Jahanvi, was born. A few years later, the actress was blessed with another child - Khushi.

After a sabbatical of close to 15 years, Sridevi made a brilliant comeback with English Vinglish (2012). As a homemaker who takes up an English speaking course and gains immense self respect in the process, the actress was appreciated by her fans and critics alike. Fans couldn't get enough of the simplicity and honesty with which she had essayed the role of Shashi Godbole. After the comeback, we also got frequent glimpses of her at red carpet events, where the stunning actress always made a splash with her stylish looks. Sridevi also turned showstopper at a jewellery fashion show in 2014 and looked every inch a goddess. Some of her recent pictures from the family wedding in Dubai created immense buzz, as Sridevi dazzled in custom Manish Malhotra outfits. Nobody would have ever thought that these would turn out to be some of her last images.

Her last release - Mom, earned her an award for Best Actress at the Zee Cine Awards 2018, apart from nominations at various award functions. There were reports doing the rounds that she was being approached for some films. She has also shot for a special appearance in Shah Rukh Khan's next - Zero. It is devastating to know that we won't get to see the charming actress on the silver screen ever again. The fact that she is no more is yet to sink in. But, her timeless classics will continue to inspire. They shall ensure her stories, performances and legacy lives on forever.

A legendary actress who ruled the silver screen with her supreme talent. A diva, who turned heads with her impeccable style and picture perfect looks. It wouldn't be wrong if we call it - The End of an Era.

Rest in Peace, Chandni! 

Love,

The Dancebee

Click the image to watch the full song

The much anticipated trailer of Tiger Shroff's next - Baaghi 2, was launched earlier today and needless to say, it was a grand affair. If the power packed trailer is anything to go by, the film - sequel to Nadiadwala's production venture Baaghi (2016), promises to be a high octane action drama.

Ronnie (Shroff) is an army officer, who goes in search of his ex-lover's (Patani) child, who has been kidnapped. That sets the basic premises of the film. Of course, not without larger than life action sequences and daring stunts. The ensemble cast looks really interesting. As the trailer progresses, you are introduced to other key characters in the film, portrayed by Manoj Bajpayee, Randeep Hooda, Prateik Babbar among others. Bajpayee and Hooda's character looks particularly interesting, and we feel their performances will be one of the film's biggest strengths. Shroff looks ripped, strong and totally geared up to kick, punch and fly on repeat! His look is sure to become extremely popular and we feel the actor is all set to create an impact with his performance in the film. We get to see very few glimpses of Patani, who plays the lead actress. However, we hope her character stands out and makes a mark in the film, just like Shraddha Kapoor did in the previous instalment.

Interesting to note that Baaghi 2, helmed by film maker - choreographer Ahmed Khan, has been creating immense buzz ever since its announcement last year. The makers have been treating the audience (on social media) with some cool updates, and raised the anticipation level a notch higher. They even invited fans to be a part of the 'rebel' campaign by joining an activity.

Neeraj Pandey has given us some of the best 'edge of the seat' thrillers in recent times. Films like A Wednesday and Special 26 happen to be some of my all time favourites. And, when a film maker of his calibre brings together a fresh mentor - protégé pair in the form of Manoj Bajpayee and Sidharth Malhotra - two artists who have created a niche of their own (add to that, a massive fan following), one cannot help but get a little excited to watch the drama unfold on the big screen!

The film is an out and out thriller, where one dot connects to the other in true 'Neeraj Pandey' style. So much, that one cannot even afford to take a restroom break! If you end up missing the opening scene or make a fashionably late entry, be prepared to scratch your head till you can find the missing gaps and get back on track. Col Abhay Singh (Bajpayee) and Major Jai Bakshi (Malhotra) are part of a special Military unit. While the latter goes rogue after coming across explosive details related to an arms deal, the former takes it upon himself to find Bakshi and understand the reason as to why he picked the wrong path. One thing leads to another, the mentor - protégé face a fallout and thus, the cat-and-mouse chase begins (across Delhi, London, Kashmir among other key locations, where the film has been shot).



Apart from the lead protagonists, other principal characters who have performed well include Vikram Gokhale as the Army General, Kumud Mishra as an ex-Army Man, Adil Hussain as an arms dealer among others. Naseeruddin Shah's cameo as Baburao Shastri is good. There is also Sonia Gupta (Rakul Preet Singh) who plays a hacker, and Bakshi's love interest, and Pooja Chopra as a unit member. Sadly, the female characters in this film had very little to do and their performances were strictly okay. The film primarily focuses on the lead duo's journey, with characters from the ensemble cast intelligently interspersed in the narrative.

Aiyaar is an individual who disguises himself skilfully, leaving those around him completely baffled and surprised. Someone with magical, wizard like powers. In this film, there is a scene where Singh (Bajpayee) is referred to as an Aiyaar. Needless to say, Bajpayee's act will make you believe that there is nothing he can't do. Like a chameleon, he can transform into anything and leave you impressed. His powerful performance is a clear winner and it won't be wrong to say - the industry is blessed to have artists like Bajpayee. Another highlight is Malhotra's impeccable portrayal of the soldier gone rogue - Major Jai Bakshi. It is a treat to watch him play the forthright and smart Bakshi with such great ease. With every film, Malhotra has proved his mettle as an actor, adding a lot of effort and value to every character that he has portrayed on screen. And, this film is no different. Both Bajpayee and Malhotra's performance is the heart and soul of this film.

Sanjoy Chowdury's background score is fabulous and adds great value to the overall presentation. Rochak Kohli's music is interesting, though the film retains only one song. The dialogues are well penned, with some memorable lines that create an impact. While most of Pandey's favourite artists make a comeback, it is Bajpayee and Malhotra's fresh equation that leaves a mark. Their confrontation scenes are brilliant, with both actors staying true to their characters with the perfect personality, attitude and fine dialogue delivery. All this, without going too OTT!

While the film does well in some important departments, there some low points that stops Aiyaary from soaring higher than the sky. The film has a weak screenplay, which doesn't do much for the plot. Add to that - sloppy editing, especially in the second half. While the film has a good pace, it could have been a bit more crisp. Having said that, the performances and other key elements like BG score, dialogues hold fort and save the film from sinking completely. Plus, the film has a strong message that needs to be taken seriously, especially for the sake of current (read: us) and future generations.



With an important takeaway and some stellar acts, Aiyaary is an intelligent whodunnit! Fans of this genre will definitely enjoy the film. And of course, fans of Bajpayee and Malhotra - you guys are in for a well deserved treat.

Verdict: Do watch the film for Bajpayee and Malhotra's remarkable performances!
⭐⭐1/2

Love,
The Dancebee

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