Showing posts with label Amitabh Bachchan. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Amitabh Bachchan. Show all posts
Amitabh Bachchan, Aamir Khan's Thailand Sojourn for Thugs of Hindostan
With less than a fortnight left for the release, Yash Raj Films' much awaited action adventure - Thugs of Hindostan, has been creating immense buzz. The film, which boasts of breath-taking visuals and scale, was shot in several exotic locations like Malta and Thailand. Let's give you a quick sneak peek into what exactly unfolded during their Thailand schedule.
The team shot in rain forests and the picturesque Bora Island, but little did they know that it would turn out to be an adventure. Amitabh Bachchan, who plays the interesting character - Khuda Baksh, stated “I couldn't understand Viktor’s philosophy of wanting to go to Thailand to shoot this sequence, but he said we found a wonderful location and was keen on exploring that. I must admit that when I went there and saw the location, it was absolutely awe inspiring." The actor added that it was a massive cave, which was almost 20 to 30 stories high, and he confessed that it was difficult to imagine how nature was able to create this. "While we were shooting on two or three locations, we had visitors without a pass on our location. Huge snakes would suddenly appear out of the rocks. Many a times there were little pranks that everyone was playing by throwing rubber snakes,” quipped Bachchan.
Film maker Vijay Krishna Acharya [fondly called Viktor] chose a cave on the island to be Khuda Baksh’s hide out. But, reaching the set was cumbersome for Sr Bachchan, who had to walk for more than half an hour to reach the cave. So, just for him, the team built a palkhi!
“I had a lot of problems for the final walk. It had a climb, as it was mountainous. I have breathing problems. I tried a couple of times, but it was just not happening. They generously made a Palkhi for me. So, I was lifted and taken to the location, looking very regal,” added Bachchan. Aamir Khan, who plays Firangi Malla in the film, says he was wowed by the location in Thailand. He says, “When I walked in there for the first time, I was taken aback by the beauty of Poda Nui Island. It also felt like a real hideout. It had a massive cave with a huge ceiling and a river flowing through it. It’s a fantastic location.”
With visually grand, immersive experiences and jaw dropping action sequences, Thugs of Hindostan, co-starring Katrina Kaif and Fatima Sana Shaikh, is all set for a grand Diwali release. The film is set to release on November 8, 2018 in three languages - Hindi, Tamil and Telugu.
Are you excited to watch Thugs of Hindostan?
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102 Not Out | Film Review
You don't always need larger than life sets, fancy locations or opulent outfits for a film to leave an impact. Sometimes, simplicity can do wonders. And, that's exactly the reason why film maker Umesh Shukla's latest offering - 102 Not Out, left us impressed. Personally, I have always believed that good content has the power to go a long way. 102 Not Out - which calls itself an 'ageless comedy', is built on that trustworthy foundation. It has the perfect combination of flawless writing, presentation and performances. It's the simplicity of this film that captivates the audience, and it clearly didn't need any of the so called 'formulas' to create magic.
Set in Mumbai, the film brings together two of Indian Cinema's most loved and respected stalwarts - Amitabh Bachchan and Rishi Kapoor. The two power house performers, who have entertained generations with their incredible films, are seen playing real and raw characters, that strike a chord. After the opening credits, which explores the city of Mumbai rather beautifully, we are quickly introduced to the lead protagonists - Babulal Vakharia (Kapoor), a 75-year-old man who prefers to live a rather dull and boring, morose life. Enter Dattatreya Vakharia (Bachchan), father of Babulal and a 102-year-old veteran, who believes in living life to the fullest. His only aim? To break the record of the world's oldest living man - a Chinese veteran who is 118 years old. And what's his only hindrance towards this goal, you may ask? His uninterested and insipid son, who lives a rather monotonous life. Clearly, both father and son are poles apart. In an attempt to bring some much needed cheer in his son's life, Dattatreya tries one trick after another to change 'Babu' (as he lovingly calls him) for good, but the latter takes some time to get comfortable with these changes, till fate decides to bring its own twist to the tale.
Through some poignant, yet impactful moments, this wonderful slice of life film goes on to teach us how life deserves to be appreciated, and why it is important for us to love ourselves, before anyone else. It teaches an individual to respect and care for oneself. Being sulky, with one step hanging in the past is no good, as it only ends up hurting an individual, more than ever. It highlights the simple joys of life and positivity, while ditching any hint of negativity that often engulfs an individual. Shukla wonderfully takes the audience through a roller coaster ride of emotions, without being too preachy. Likewise, the film maintains a smooth flow, and does not stretch unnecessarily, keeping the audience entertained right through the 102 minutes of running time (interesting how it matches the title and Dattatreya Dadu's age as well).
Laxman Utekar's cinematography breathes life in to the humble journey of the Vakharias, who reside in Suburban Mumbai's Vile Parle. Every little detail of the city stands out beautifully. Saumya Joshi's writing is like a breath of fresh air. It is one of the key elements that keeps this film going strong. Bodhaditya Banerjee's editing is crisp, and maintains a smooth flow. There is not a single moment that feels unnecessary or out of place (a rarity in today's times). The soundtrack composed by Salim-Sulaiman is decent, with 'Bachche ki Jaan' and 'Kulfi' being the most prominent ones. Both tracks are well sung, especially the latter, where Sonu Nigam's vocals add an emotional touch to the scenes that unfold. While the two superstars dominate every scene in the film, Jimit Trivedi makes a mark as the humble local chemist wala Dada - Dhiru, who often visits the Vakharias (and ends up spending most of his time with them).
With Sr Bachchan and Kapoor leading the front, 102 Not Out rests comfortably on two strong, powerful shoulders. After sharing the screen space in blockbuster films of the 70s and 80s, Bachchan and Kapoor are back together after a span of 27 years. However, it won't be wrong to say that the wait was indeed worth it! The incredible actors breathe life into their respective characters with such ease. Well, there is a reason why they are among the 'Real Superstars' of Indian cinema. Bachchan and Kapoor light up the screen with their endearing chemistry, and their charm is sure to melt your heart. So much, that you might just end up feeling like giving the two grand old gentlemen (on screen) a 'jhappi' in this film.
Kapoor's portrayal of the 'self confessed buddha' Babulal is top notch! The actor has been successfully experimenting with his characters in the recent past, ranging from an adorable grandfather in Kapoor & Sons to the menacing Rauf Lala in Agneepath and more. Once again, Kapoor leaves a delightful impression with his effortless act.
Every time you watch Bachchan create magic on the big screen, you can't help but wonder - How? Just how does he do this? One cannot imagine anyone but Senior Bachchan to do complete justice to this jovial, witty and spirited man named Dattatreya. The actor goes all out with his act, while flawlessly stepping into the shoes of a 102-year-old fun loving man. He sings, dances and skilfully makes his way into your heart, and leaves you with goosebumps all over, just before the end credits roll out. Honestly, one cannot have enough adjectives to describe Bachchan's incredible prowess as an actor. All one can say is -- he is the 'Jaan' of this film!!
As captain of the ship, film maker Shukla does a brilliant job of presenting this lovely slice of life film, that beautifully celebrates life. 102 Not Out is all heart, and a pure delight to watch. Please keep a box of tissues ready, you guys. The lovable duo will make you laugh and cry, all through this marvellous ride. The takeaway is a big smile, with warmth and happiness all around. And of course, the joy of watching Bachchan and Kapoor - Indian cinema's finest actors - bond together in an adorable way, is simply priceless!
Verdict: Highly recommended!! Watching a beautiful, yet simple film after ages is pure bliss. Go out with your loved ones, and enjoy every moment.
⭐⭐⭐1/2
⭐⭐⭐1/2
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Love,
The Dancebee
Pink | Film Review
From the opening scene of the film till the climax, Bengali film director Aniruddha Roy Chaudhary’s debut hindi social thriller - Pink, which hits the screens tomorrow, will keep you hooked on to your seat. The film, produced by Shoojit Sircar, speaks about an important and relevant issue in our society. The message in this film is conveyed and presented with an impact, which will remain with you for a long time, even after you leave the cinema hall. There are many films made on social issues concerning women, but the courtroom drama in Pink makes it outstanding an outstanding cinematic experience.
The story revolves around three girls who get trapped into a situation with the rich brats compelling them to fight a battle for their dignity as women. Casting of the film is bang on. Tapsee Pannu (as Minal), Kirti Kulhari (as Falak) and Andrea Tariang’s (as Andrea) stellar performances will make you feel connected to their characters throughout the film. Of course, the film is incomplete without Amitabh Bachchan, as he is the soul and heart of Pink. He is the mystery piece in the first half, who weaves the film together in the end with his closing statement. Pink churns you emotionally - making you feel scared, angry, sympathetic, helpless and finally, victorious.
Pace of the film is slightly slow, while the story has an unsettling mood throughout. There are very few dialogues in the first half, which keeps the curiosity intact as to what has really gone wrong in the film. A special mention for the costumes, that helped add a layer to the characters. In the second half of the film, when the main female characters are interrogated in the witness box, they have been dressed in light pastel colors, thus making a strong point of the characters being suppressed. Ritesh Shah's screenplay and dialogues form the backbone of this film, making it gripping. The film highlights some of the screwed notions in our Indian society surrounding women and men, making it an eye opener, especially when it comes to women safety.
Whether you decide to watch Pink alone, with friends, family or neighbours; we simply suggest that you watch it at least once! Highly recommended.
Verdict: Pink is a must watch! And remember, don’t judge the colour by its appearance.
Share your feedback on the film with us by leaving a comment below or join the conversation on Twitter!
Going in front of the camera is not an easy task | Amitabh Bachchan - Exclusive Interview
Our interview with actor Amitabh Bachchan was lined up on a rather hot and sunny afternoon. Our venue, a popular suburban hotel, was buzzing with the news of Bachchan's arrival. And once he did, visitors, media persons and tourists could not stop clicking pictures. Amidst all the hullabaloo, Bachchan, with a smile on his face, waved back at every fan and entered the interview area. It was a packed day ahead for the actor, we were told, with back to back interviews for his recently released film, Te3n, which has earned several accolades and tons of appreciation for the legendary actor. But, all the buzz and madness around didn't seem to affect the legend, who battled every question that came his way, mixed with his timeless wit and humour. After exchanging pleasantries and taking the mandatory 'aashirwad' from him, we settled down for a pleasant chat, where Amitabh Bachchan spoke about shooting in Kolkata, being scared of ghosts as a youngster, Saat Hindustani and how he continues to consider himself a struggler. Plus, a few fan questions got answered too. Excerpts from a delightful and heart warming conversation:
What was it about TE3N that attracted you the most?
The people who are making it. I have worked with both Ribhu and Sujoy before. Plus, the opportunity of another job.
You had earlier worked with Ribhu (Dasgupta) on Yudh, which was a television show, and now, you worked together on a film. How different was the experience for the two of you?
Yudh was supposed to be directed by Anurag Kashyap, who had to step out due to a busy schedule. But, he ensured that he will get somebody and Anurag would overlook the project. One of the first things that Anurag told me, when we started working on the show, was to take time to say or do anything, feel what you want to feel and don't be conscious of the cameras around (since there were 2 -3 cameras). Also, sync sound can help you hear everything, right from your own heartbeat to the things around. It also allows you to take time to emote something, which was a benefit. Ribhu continued to do that during the show, and even during Te3n. A lot of it has also got to do with technology. But, making the serial was a lot like shooting for a movie.
You have always praised Nawazuddin Siddiqui for his talent. How was it sharing screen space with him?
He is just such an exceptional talent. I personally feel that a good co-actor can enhance your work. You maybe the best actor in the world, but if your colleague is not good, then it shows. He reflects your goodness.
You got back to shooting in Kolkata for TE3N, just after Piku in 2015. How was the experience?
In fact, we were supposed to shoot the film in Goa. But, the necessary permissions couldn’t be obtained. During discussions to zero in on the right location, I suggested Kolkata and everyone was fine with the idea. Of course, Kolkata is a special place. I have spent 7-8 years in the city, and got my first job as an executive at a firm. There will obviously be some nostalgic value.
Since the film is shot in real locations, was there any point where the crowds in Kolkata got difficult to handle in between a shot?
Not at all! The crowd in Kolkata is passionate, loving and absolutely wonderful. They are naive and would cheer for you every now and then. But, they are also very considerate and despite being there in large numbers, would never cause any trouble during the shoot. If they know that a shot is going on, they would move away and maintain silence. They know the creative side of film-making very well, so we didn’t face any problem.
There were a few locations used in the film that were touted to be haunted. As a kid, did you believe in haunted areas or ghosts, as such?
Of course, when you are young, you do feel scared. If you are sitting out in the lawn area, it turns dark and suddenly someone goes, “Andar jaakar light jalana,” toh haalat kharab ho jaati this (laughs). You just run and try to get the task done as fast as you can. And then you had people narrating scary ghost stories or saying, “Wahan jaana mat, varna woh aa jayega.” It’s all about the atmosphere created around us.
So, do you try some of these tricks with your grand daughter, Aaradhya?
Oh no, not at all. Now you can’t do any of that, because they are well aware about everything. But yes, if you don’t run their favourite cartoon show, they won’t eat.
Taking you back in time. A lot of your fans wanted to know, how was it working on Saat Hindustani with Khwaja Ahmed Abbas?
Khwaja Ahmed Abbas sahab thought like a common man, and had a very socialistic thinking. All his writings were centred around these thoughts, and the IPTA movement. When he wrote Saat Hindustani, he was very conscious about the secular socialist concept of India. He chose seven Indians because each one of them belonged to a different caste, creed and language. This idea was to show that we are one and we are fighting for a common cause - which is our country. His choice of artists were deliberate, as you had one actor from every background, but the roles given were completely opposite to where they came from. So, you had Utpal Dutt, a Bengali playing a Punjabi, and an Amitabh Bachchan, a Hindu playing a Muslim. For the film, we shot in the forests of Goa during monsoon, traveled third class and slept in Government circuit houses without a bed or electricity.
After you have been approached and you understand the requirements for your character, is there any rehearsal or a process that you follow before the shoot?
Nothing specific, as such. But, all of us go through various script reading sessions and discussions, to understand the character. Every project requires a different method. Like during Wazir, we had 8-9 script reading sessions with Vidhu Vinod Chopra. We did the same for Te3n and Pink. I think it helps, because it helps you to get familiar with what you and the others around you are doing. So, when you start shooting, you don’t waste time thinking about what your co-star or someone else is doing.
You have seen the evolution of technology in the film industry over a period of four decades. What do you have to say about it?
Back in time, there was no celluloid, no film, which was the most expensive commodity of that time. We could not afford retakes. But now, with everything digital, you can shoot for hours and keep correcting yourself. So, in that respect, it works. We just finished a film called Pink, where we have used digital cameras. Shoojit used 6 -7 cameras at a time for a sequence, which we shot for 15 - 20 minutes nonstop.
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| Image credit: Daboo Ratnani Photography 2016 |
Twitter Fan Questions
Ans: Yeah! Why not? If there is a suitable opportunity on television like Yudh that comes my way, I will be very happy to take it up. As for Kaun Banega Crorepati, I still have a contract with them. Somehow, it couldn't work out this year. Let's see how things go. Maybe next year.
Ans: Going in front of the camera is not an easy task. It’s tough. You have sleepless nights, you feel nervous and you don’t know what’s going to happen when the camera starts to roll. As an actor, you question yourself and even the director, to check if you are doing okay. You suddenly wake up in the night and feel, ‘Gosh! I should have enacted that scene in some other way.’ These are some of the things that all of us go through. I mean, I don’t know about the rest, but at least I definitely do.
Ans: I am still struggling. But, what keeps you going is work. Looking for work, what work is gonna come tomorrow, whether I will get it or not. Also, thinking about how I can make myself capable enough to not let that work go.
By Priya Adivarekar
Love,
The Dancebee
Review | 5 reasons why you must watch Shamitabh
So, one of 2015's much anticipated release - Shamitabh, has been viewed and that too, twice (press show and then, another trip with the family). While I can't stop raving about how handsome Mr.Bachchan looks in the film and how Dhanush wins our heart with his incredible act, we must give it to R.Balki for experimenting with a fresh and unique plot. Being a voice actress, I do understand the importance that voice acting plays, be it in a television commercial or film. It can make or break an individual's career and hence, several actors have opted for voice over artistes in their early films. While some critics may argue over the length and pace of Shamitabh and analyse it in their own way, I thought we needed this kind of a film that not only celebrates cinema, but also the support behind it. We give you 5 reasons why we loved Shamitabh and why you must watch it soon!
1. Amitabh Bachchan
The name says it all. Mr.Bachchan's performance in any film needs no introduction or recommendation. He is known to raise the bar and make any role look real. So real, that you tend to cry while seeing him shed tears on screen. And he does that exactly that to the cynical, old and drunken Amitabh Sinha, his character in the film. The energy, emotion, expression and above all, his charisma is absolutely phenomenon. There couldn't have been a better tribute than making a film that is dedicated to his rich, priceless baritone. Remember how the receiver would burst into tears on the phone after hearing, "Hello, Main Amitabh Bachchan bol raha hoon..." on Kaun Banega Crorepati? Yes, his magical voice has got that effect and his performance in Shamitabh is absolutely flawless. Be it mouthing those dialogues in style or walking inside the graveyard while looking dapper in a velvet blazer, you have to witness the Bachchan magic. Do not miss the last 15 minutes of the film. It left me with a lump in my throat. Respect!
2. Dhanush's incredible act
I loved his performance in Raanjhanaa. But in Shamitabh, Dhanush goes a notch above with a great act. As the film fanatic Danish, Dhanush wins your heart with his journey from struggling to find a foothold in the industry to becoming the biggest superstar in Bollywood. One can witness the change in his body language and style, as the film progresses. Dhanush has confidently pulled off scenes where he challenges Mr.Bachchan and has performed some emotional scenes in the most natural way. Don't miss a sequence where Dhanush stylishly poses for the shutterbugs, while playing around with Phantom cigarettes. It will remind you a lot of Rajini sir. With Shamitabh, Dhanush has proved that if an actor gives it his best, he can deliver a memorable performance, even without mouthing a single dialogue.
3. Illaiyaraaja's music and background score
This is not your usual Bollywood fare. The music in Shamitabh is unconventional and yet, the compositions touch your heart. Mr.Bachchan sings Piddly effortlessly and the stylish tunes that go with it make this song extremely addictive. Stereophonic Sannata and Ishq-e-fillum fit the script perfectly, with the latter proving to be an ode to film buffs, who can never get enough of cinema. There is also a track called Lifebuoy, which again, is included keeping the plot in mind. I love Caralisa's rendition of Shamitabh, another stylish track that you might continue humming even after the film. The background score is apt and does not overpower the scenes.
4. Understanding why Ego is useless
Ego does nothing except harming an individual. And Shamitabh puts this across very well. With fame comes ego and Danish's (Shamitabh) greed for doing everything his way. Well, that does not go down too well with Amitabh, who decides to teach him a lesson in his own way. Needless to say, both fail and things that follow only prove that both were incomplete without each other. It was ego that led them and their success towards destruction. Shamitabh is a lesson in letting go of both internal and external conflicts as well as the 'E' word (ego, I mean).
5. Dialogues
The subtle yet sharp humor and brilliantly penned dialogues add an additional charm. Although the whiskey-paani dialogue was a tad bit overplayed, we still love it. There are tons of memorable dialogues that will stay with you after the film. And, don't miss portions where the dialogues mouthed by Dhanush and Mr.Bachchan mirror the situations faced by them in real life (jokes on Dhanush's persona or rejection as an RJ for Bachchan). We love how the writers have thrown in witty lines to keep the flow going. There are references to the way things work in Bollywood, be it a journalist's question about Dhanush's six pack abs or the scene where Dhanush mumbles that award functions are fixed; it is amazing how the film that celebrates cinema, sportingly takes a dig at it too.
and a special mention
We love how Balki has moved up the names of Mr.Bachchan, Dhanush and Akshara's valets in the closing credits. Don't know if you noticed, but for me, it was lovely to see their names appear before the rest of the crew. Even they deserve some love, right? (And I am sure Amitabh Sinha will agree, because he frowned after looking at his own name appear towards the end, as Shamitabh's valet - Robert).
Well, these reasons should be enough for you to drag yourself to the cinema hall. Now!
Watch Shamitabh and let me know your feedback on Twitter - @priyaadivarekar
Love,
The Dancebee
