Tattle: Carrie Prejean gets thumbs-up from the Donald

OUR NOT-SO-LONG national nightmare is over: Miss California, Carrie Prejean, can keep her title.

(By Howard Gensler) --- Donald Trump descended from a skyscraper yesterday to make his ruling. We still think he should have named Carrie the "Celebrity Apprentice" and Joan Rivers Miss California, but what can you do.It's been a busy week for Trump but once again he used his Solomonic wisdom to do what he does best - get publicity for Donald Trump and properties owned by Donald Trump.

Really, were there a dozen people in America who actually cared about the Miss USA pageant? Are there a half-dozen who can recall who won? In allowing Carrie to retain her crown and simultaneously saying he would love to have Perez Hilton back as a judge, Trump has appealed to both sides in the gay-marriage divide.

"We've reviewed the pictures carefully," Trump said at a packed news conference at Trump Plaza in Manhattan. "We've made a determination that the pictures taken were acceptable. Some were risque, but we are in the 21st century." We're still having beauty pageants, dude. We're fighting over gay marriage. We're at war with fanatics who stone women for going to school. Are we really in the 21st century?

"It's the same answer the president of the United States gave," Trump said of Carrie's response to Perez's gay-marriage query. "It's the same answer many people gave. She gave an honorable answer. She gave an answer from her heart, and I think for that she has to be commended." We're with you, Donald. We have said repeatedly during this ridiculous controversy that Carrie is absolutely entitled to the opinion she stated. It's a beauty contest, for pete's (or Trump's) sake. Carrie was catwalking in high heels, not running for office. She was wearing a sash, not a judge's robe.

Sure we think her higher authority might frown on the nudie shots and the fake boobs, but that's just us - and we frown on neither. So we were 100 percent with The Donald's decision and with Carrie retaining her title and her important runner-up status should anything happen to whoever actually won. But then Carrie had to open her mouth.

"On April 19 on that stage I exercised my freedom of speech, and I was punished for doing so," said Prejean, who described Perez's question as "politically charged" with a "hidden personal agenda." "This should not happen in America."

Take a breath, dear. Perez's question was only "politically charged" because you gave him an answer he didn't want to hear and he made an issue of it. If you want your answer to be respected as coming from your heart, then his question should be respected for coming from his heart.

His "hidden personal agenda"? What's "hidden" about it? He's an out gay man who writes a snarky gossip blog. He believes he should have the right to marry a man. You don't. You both have a "personal agenda" and neither one is hidden.

As for the line "This should not happen in America," to what do you refer? Judges shouldn't ask "politically charged" questions of pageant babes (that's playing into a stereotype) or people shouldn't have "hidden personal agendas" even if they're not hidden?

'American Idol': More judging, less singing!

By Michael Slezak - May 12, 2009

Remember the good old days of American Idol, when Top 3 Night featured nine individual performances? Tonight, though, "the three amigos" were limited to two songs apiece, which allowed the production to focus on the things that really count: Simon and Kara trying to top each other with petulant quips (and with the score at 0-0, it's a draw!); Simon and Paula continuing their grade-school-level flirtation/disgust pas de deux; the Dawg rambling on and on, as though anyone actually cared; and Ryan and Simon coughing up one more fetid homophobic nugget before things move to the Nokia. [West coaster: Beware of SPOILERS!] 

Despite the judges' best (worst?) efforts, though, the stars of the night were Adam, Kris, and Danny. Because, as Randy and Simon both reiterated tonight, American Idol is a singing competition, and as Paula would say, we're just here for the music. When it all shook out, nobody exactly tanked, but one puppy-eyed crooner covered Kanye West, and proved great risks can yield great rewards. (Yes, Kris, I surrender: I will buy your record the day it comes out.) One glam-rock belter served vocals so huge, they may cause potential tidal waves on remote Pacific islands over the next 24 hours. (Note that Simon begged his fan base not to get complacent; Mom, are you voting?) And one goofy Wisconsin dude tackled a song that former Idol champ Taylor Hicks covered during Top 3 week in season 5, and his reboot did not match up. I know the smart money is probably on an Adam-Danny finale, but my crazy/sentimental/optimistic bucks say it's gonna be Adam-Kris. How about you? 

Post your thoughts about tonight's show below, and as for me, well,I'll be back in the early a.m. with my full TV Watch recap. In the meantime, don't forget to make your pick in the EW.com Idol Prediction Challenge! Oh, and a word of warning: There won't be an On the Scene at Idol report on PopWatch tomorrow morning, but fret not: Adam B. Vary will be in the Idoldome for results night on Wednesday, and back with his usual brand of jaunty on Thursday morning.

Source: http://popwatch.ew.com

Rexona Destination Unlimited on ATN

Cultural Correspondent - May 13, 2009

Travel show ‘Rexona Destination Unlimited’ will be aired on ATN Bangla at 8:00pm. Anchored by popular model Nova and directed by Shahriar Shakil, the programme is about travelling and discovering interesting places around the world. Breaking away from the traditional travel shows, the programme showcases the culture and customs of different communities. Today’s show features some eye-catching natural beauties in Malaysia.

Source: http://www.newagebd.com

Ishkool on Ekushey TV tonight

Cultural Correspondent - May 13, 2009

Ekushey TV will air the entertainment-educational programme “Ishkool” tonight at 7:45 pm. The programme aims at generating awareness on the public education system in Bangladesh.

Jointly produced by Ekushey TV and Plan Bangladesh, the programme focuses on issues like corporal punishment at schools, drop outs, absence of students and teachers in the classrooms, an education system that forces students to memorise without understanding the study material and so on. A live discussion follows, highlighting the problems shown in the drama section of the programme, and possible ways to change the situation. A government officer working in the education sector, a representative of Plan Bangladesh and three invited guests participate in the discussion.

"Ishkool" is written by Anzir Liton and directed by Atik Rahman. Swagota, Majnun Mizan, Arman Parvez Murad, Abul Hayat and others are featured in the drama part. Produced by Rishita Jahan and Saiful Islam, the programme is hosted by Prabak Karim.

Source: http://www.thedailystar.net

Freida Pinto becomes new face cosmetic giant

ANI - May 13, 2009

Freida Pinto and Evangeline Lilly are the latest beauties to join the list of celebrities to endorse products by cosmetic giant L’Oreal. 

While there have been persistent Internet rumours that the ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ star would be the face of Estee Lauder, Pinto has said that she is excited to be the face of L’Oreal. 

“I am very moved to be joining the great L’Oreal Paris family and all these personalities: a family I am now proud to be a part of,” ‘People’ quoted Freida as saying in a statement. 

And the other A-lister, to step in front of the lens for L’Oreal, is ‘Lost’ star Lilly, who says: “It is a source of great pride for me to represent a brand whose ambition is to respond to every person’s aspirations to beauty and contribute to the fulfillment and well-being of everyone.”

Source: http://www.screenindia.com

‘Britney wants to turn to teaching’

ANI - May 13, 2009

Britney Spears is thinking of swapping her music career with teaching, according to her cousin Alli Sims. 

Sims, who grew up with the pop princess and assisted the singer in 2007, had been fired by the star’s father Jamie. But the 28-year-old said the Womanizer hitmaker often spoke of her wish to work with kids and become a school teacher. 

"Britney would always say, ''Maybe I just want to be a teacher. I just want to do something on a normal level. I've been something big for so long," ‘Contactmusic’ quoted Sims as telling British magazine Reveal.

Source: http://www.google.com

Lohan ‘ha haaas’ pregnancy rumours

ANI - May 13, 2009

Lindsay Lohan has laughed off reports suggesting that she’s 7 weeks pregnant. 

It was also being claimed that she is booked in for an abortion later this week. The 22 year-old Lohan, who recently broke up with her partner Samantha Ronson, was reported to be pregnant by blogger and journalist Ian Halperin, reports ‘The NZPA’. 

However, MTV UK reported that Lohan is unsure of who the father is. The Mean Girls star had allegedly slept with a number of men following her split from Ronson, and apparently doesn’t know who the child’s father is. 

“I swear she’s carrying,” a source had earlier said. 

“She’s going through big emotional turmoil. She’s not sure if she’ll have it or go through with an abortion that she booked to have in the next few days. 

“Saddest part is she has no idea who the father is. She must have slept with more than two dozen men in the past couple of months,” the source added.

But when questioned by ‘E!’ Online, Lohan laughed off the reports. 

"Ha ha ha," was all the star said. 

In a recent interview with Closer Magazine, Lohan has said she wants to focus more on her movie career and shed her paparazzi party life image. 

“When I was a kid, I thought movie stars were people who wanted to act in great movies- It’s all I ever wanted to do. I didn’t get into this business to be a celebrity - I’ve been a target for a long time,” she said.

Source: http://www.screenindia.com

Lennon’s bloody clothes displayed

BBC - May 13, 2009

A new John Lennon exhibition, due to open in New York later, will feature a paper bag containing the bloody clothes from the night he was shot dead.

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Annex display also features the piano from his apartment and handwritten lyrics. His widow Yoko Ono, who has created the display, said the clothes were ‘hard to include’ and she feared she ‘might be criticised as well’ for including them. Lennon was murdered outside the Dakota apartment building on 8 December 1980.

John Lennon: The New York Years, which will run for the rest of the year, includes a sleeveless New York City t-shirt worn in a famous photograph of the former Beatle, as well as other items of his clothing.

Source: http://www.newagebd.com

10th IIFA to have 'Best of the Decade', 'Green IIFA' awards

Agencies - May 13, 2009

The International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) will be celebrating the 10th edition of IIFA Weekend in Macau next month with special awards like 'Best of the Decade' and 'Green IIFA'. 

'Best of the Decade' will be given for the five popular categories of Best Film, Director, Actor, Actress and Music Composer, Sabbas Joseph, Director of IIFA said. 

'Green IIFA' will be presented to a film personality who has been working in the area of creating environment awareness, he said. 

Speaking about the choice of the venue of the 10th IIFA, Sabbas said Macau presents a meeting ground for Indian, Chinese and Hong Kong film industries. 

"IIFA was working closely with the Macau government and 'The Venetian', venue of the three-day event to give finishing touches to organisation of the gala event," he said. 

Choice of the film for the premiere would be decided in a few days depending upon how producers who had stopped new releases in multiplexes since last month, take a decision on fresh release dates, he said. 

"We will also showcase films like Kaminey, Aladin during the three day event. Three more films are in the process of being finalised," he said. 

Sonam Kapoor will perform live for the first time on stage. Ritesh Deshmukh and Boman Irani, hosts of last year's IIFA awards event in Bangkok, will continue this time too, Sabbas said. 

IIFA's 'Green Agenda' will continue this year too. TERI's campaign 'Lighting a Billion Lights' in association with IIFA has been well received, he said. 

Sabbas said IIFA has discussed the possibility of a separate event to celebrate non-Hindi language films. "We are sure that it will take shape", he said. 

He said it would not be possible to incorporate non-Hindi language films in awards categories along with that of Hindi will make the IIFA awards nite. 

The three-day IIFA event will commence on June 11 and the award ceremony will take place on June 13.

Source: http://www.screenindia.com

‘Madonna shuns the sun to stay young’

ANI - May 13, 2009

Pop queen Madonna keeps out of the sun to stay young, says a leading expert. 

Dr Fredric Brandt, the self-styled “Baron of Botox”, had advised the Material Girl to stay away from sun to preserve her youthful looks. 

However, he refuses to confirm whether the 50-year-old songtress had the anti-wrinkle injections. 

“Madonna is my client. She’s got great skin and she’s very disciplined,” the ‘Daily Star’ quoted him as saying on US telly show ‘The Insider’. 

“She listens to me about staying out of the sun. But I will not tell you what she does,” he added.

Source: http://www.screenindia.com

Posh and kids ‘to move to Italy this summer’

ANI - May 13, 2009

Victoria Beckham is planning to move to Italy this summer along with her three kids, it has emerged. 

The former Spice Girl, who is currently living in Los Angeles with her sons while soccer star husband David plays for AC Milan, wants them all to live under the same roof, reports ‘The China Daily’. 

A source said: "Victoria loves America but all the flying back and forward is starting to take its toll, and being apart from David has been really hard for them both. She loves her friends and her life in Los Angeles, but it doesn't make up for the fact she is so far away from her husband. 

"Victoria hated the idea of moving to Milan at first, but she's warmed to it. Plus, she doesn't want David to be on his own too long away from her and the kids,” the source added. 

David - who has been in Italy since January - is due to return to America next month to resume his contract with Los Angeles but it is thought AC Milan want to sign him on a permanent basis for next season, which starts in August. 

The source added to Britain's ‘Star’ magazine: "Victoria has said the kids were hoping to stay in Los Angeles, where they have settled in, especially Brooklyn. But they are used to moving a lot now. They're well-rounded kids, so Victoria isn't worried about them adjusting to a new home and a new school."

Source: http://www.news.google.com

Punjabi film dominates overseas box office

Bollywood Hungama - May 13, 2009

The flow of new films should begin from this week onwards in the international markets too. Meanwhile, the Friday gone by witnessed the release of the well-publicized Punjabi film ‘Munde U.K. De’, which was well received in the international markets. 

Weekend: May 8 - 10, 2009. 

U.K. BOX-OFFICE 

‘Munde U.K. De’ [Punjabi film] has debuted at No. 16 position. In its opening weekend, the film has collected £ 33,273 [approx. Rs. 25.13 lacs] on 6 screens, with the per screen average working out to £ 5,546. 

‘Mini Punjab’ [Punjabi film; last weekend: No. 33, this weekend: No. 47]: In its fourth weekend, the film has collected £ 1,722 on 4 screens, with the per screen average working out to £ 431. Total: £ 48,986 [approx. Rs. 37 lacs].

Source: http://www.screenindia.com

Jackson preparing a Moonwalk-beating dance move for O2 shows

ANI - May 13, 2009

Pop sensation Michael Jackson is trying his best to ensure that fans watching his O2 shows leave with the desperation to copy his dance moves, for he has hired world-famous choreographer Kenny Ortega to come up with a fresh move that will beat the singer’s signature Moonwalk. 

Kenny has already worked with Jacko on his Dangerous and History world tours. 

“To be invited to partner him again is a dream come true,” the ‘Sun’ quoted him as saying. 

“He is a creative mastermind and inspires every one of us to climb to new places and conquer new challenges. 

“He is the most significant artist and entertainer of our generation,” he added. 

The tabloid has also revealed that Jacko has hired Kenny to produce the 50 dates at the London venue is a massive coup. The paper says that secret rehearsals are well under way in Burbank, California. 

Jackson and Kenny will be joined by 10 dancers—eight men and two women—who were selected after an audition of 700 dancers in Los Angeles last week. 

AEG’s Randy Phillips, a senior official at the firm which is staging Jackson’s shows, has given a few tantalising hints of what to expect. 

He said: “The stage set, choreography, costumes, lighting, effects and overall production will be of the highest standard and are pushing state-of-the-art.” 

He also revealed the budget was north of 13millionpounds, and would pay for 22 different stage backdrops. He said that there would be 18 to 22 songs on the setlist. 

As regards Jackson’s Moonwalk-beating move, Phillips said: “He’s working on it, but I’m sworn to secrecy.”

Source: http://www.google.com

Swapne Basabas on Banglavision tonight

Ariful Islam Mithu - May 13, 2009

The fifteenth episode of drama serial ‘Swapne Basabas’ will be aired on Banglavision at 8:15pm. The play portrays the story of an honest police officer who does not give in to anything unjust. Alea, an influential Member of Parliament and whose son and daughter often take advantage of her position, does not hesitate to do the meanest task. They think that the law is in their hands. One day, a police officer named Habib, arrests them without considering Alea’s position. Alea tries her level best to release them from the police custody that she fails in disastrously but however manages to release them from the court. Alea then throws an open challenge to the police officer who becomes her enemy.

The drama is scripted by Aftab Bin Tomiz and directed by Kawsar Ahmed. The cast includes Toni Dias, Srabonty, Litu Anam, Tonima Hamid, Shams Sumon, Mukti, Dolly Zahur, Falguni Hamid, Pijush Bondopadday, Jotika Joti, Sattar.

Source: http://www.newagebd.com

Play featuring Partha Paratim Majumder receives Molière Award

Cultural Correspondent - May 13, 2009

French play "Cochons d'Inde," featuring Paris-based Bangladeshi mime artiste Partha Pratim Majumder, recently received the prestigious Molière Award 2009 as the best theatre production. The play also featured popular French theatre actor Patrick Chesnais, Anna Gaylour and others. Chasnais won the Molière Award for best actor for this play. 

"Cochons d'Inde," which is French for Guinea pig, is a production that falls into the category of 'absurd theatre.' An affluent French national goes to a Bank to draw money from his account. He was informed that an Indian tycoon has recently bought the bank. The new owner, who apparently is a staunch believer in the Hindu caste system, confronts and detains the French client, blaming him of breaking the caste rules. According to the bank owner, the French national's caste is 'Shudra.' The bank owner suggests that only by sharing his wealth (money in the bank account) can the Frenchman evade his impending punishment. Through absurd humour, the play thus conveys a deep social message. Chasnais plays the French citizen while Majumnder plays the Indian bank owner. Interestingly enough, all of Majumder's dialogue is in Bengali in the play. Partha Pratim Majumder moved to Paris in 1981 with a scholarship on mime. He also studied the art under the iconic French mime artiste Marcel Marceau from 1983 to '85. In Bangladesh, Majumder has been a pioneer in the field of mime. This talented mime artiste has performed in Europe, America, Asia and beyond. He has received awards such as 'Master of Mime' (by the Jogesh Mime Academy in India) and 'Master of the World' (Malaysia) and many more. 

Majumder expressed his content over the play winning a Molière Award, saying, "The Molière Award is regarded as the most prestigious recognition in France after the Cannes. In the field of theatre, it is the best. Every theatre production is a teamwork, so I feel privileged to be a part of it. Added to my satisfaction is the fact that I represent the Bengali community through my character in the play.”

The play has won the award competing with almost 2000 productions.

Source: http://www.thedailystar.net

Ty Murray eliminated from `Dancing With the Stars'

By SANDY COHEN - May 13, 2009

LOS ANGELES — The King of the Cowboys has left the ballroom.

After weeks of less-than-stellar scores, rodeo champ Ty Murray was eliminated from "Dancing With the Stars."

The 39-year-old bull rider came into Tuesday's semifinal results show in last place with 48 points out of 60.

"We might be at the bottom this week, but week one we were the 13th-worst couple," Murray joked of his unlikely success in the ABC dance-off.

The nine-time world champion rodeo cowboy joined the hit show with wife Jewel, who was sidelined by an injury before the competition began. Alongside professional partner Chelsie Hightower, Murray plodded ahead with stiff hips and a positive attitude that moved fans to bring him back week after week. Judges praised Murray for his hard work and can-do approach.

"If the others have climbed hills, you've climbed mountains," head judge Len Goodman said Tuesday. "With that dedication and work ethic, you've been a credit to everyone on the show."

On Monday, judge Carrie Ann Inaba named Murray "the most valuable player of season eight."

The lovable cowboy said he knew dancing would be "a giant stretch" but that he approached it with the same vigor he does bull riding. "There's not one ounce of quit in this entire body," he said Monday.

The ballroom audience rose to its feet to bid Murray farewell Tuesday. He smiled, saying he has "a whole new respect" for dancing. He also thanked his partner.

"Teaching me to dance is like trying to teach a blind guy to paint," Murray quipped.

Tuesday's results show also included a performance by Raphael Saadiq and the continuation of the new professional dance competition: Two pro dancers are vying for viewer votes and a spot on the next season of "Dancing With the Stars," slated to begin in September.

Actor Gilles Marini, Olympian Shawn Johnson and "The Bachelor" reject Melissa Rycroft will compete for the mirrorball trophy on Monday.

A new "Dancing" champ will be crowned May 19.

Source: http://www.google.com

Trinar Golpo on ntv

Cultural Correspondent -  May 13, 2009

Drama serial "Trinar Galpo" will be aired tonight at 9:45pm on ntv. Written by the late playwright Selim Al Deen, the play is directed by Golam Sohrab Dodul.

The play sheds light on human relationships with all their limitations, conflicts, dreams and despair. The storyline centres on Trina, a young woman known for her integrity both in her professional and personal life. Trina never engages in office politics, nor does she ponder over the 500 love letters she has received. Trina is infatuated with an absent minded chatterbox, Abid.

Tarin plays the lead role in the serial. The cast also includes Intekhab Dinar, Wahida Mallik Jolly and Abul Hayat.

Source: http://www.thedailystar.net

Nandita Das: Going full steam ahead

Compiled by cultural correspondent - May 13, 2009

Remember the smouldering Nandita Das in films such as "Earth" and "Fire"? Since those days the actress and filmmaker has lost none of her spunk. Of late she has made her directorial debut in "Firaaq" which has won a number of national and international awards. Apart from this powerful film, she is to star in "Midnight's Children," along with the immensely talented Shabana Azmi. The film has been adapted by Deepa Mehta from Salman Rushdie's 1981 historical novel of the same name, which won him the prestigious Booker Literary Prize.

The award winning "Firaaq," though a work of fiction, is based on numerous true stories and is set a month after the Gujarat carnage in 2002. The film encapsulates multiple stories over 24 hours as the characters grapple with the effects of violence, some as victims, some perpetrators and some as mere silent spectators. The film's stellar cast includes Naseeruddin Shah, Raghubir Yadav, Deepti Naval, Paresh Rawal and others.The film got top honours at the Asian Festival of First Films 2008 in Singapore, where it won awards for Best Screenplay and Purple Orchid Award for Best Film. Talking to Radio Sargam about "Firaaq," Nandita said, “Human emotions are universal...It's been said that the film gave a voice to so much that remains silent and that it should be seen at least once. Though it's always great to win awards at every competitive festival we entered the film in, it's actually the audience reaction that really matters.”

Nandita has been active on several other fronts. She was the storyteller in "Under the Banyan," an audiobook series for children by Karadi Tales. She has also been the narrator in Charkha Audiobooks, "The Story of My Experiments with Truth," based on Mahatma Gandhi's autobiography. In the children's series, "The Wonder Pets," she has given voice to the character of the Bengal Tiger. And it is not just in Hindi films where she has won notice. She starred in the Oriya film "Parinati" (1989), "Janmadinam" in Malayalam (1998), "Shubho Mahurat" in Bengali (2003) and "Maati Maay" in Marathi (2005), among others.

Nandita also strives to make a difference. She has spoken around the world about her films and the need for powerful social movements in India. Apart from this, she has spoken out on issues such as HIV/AIDS and violence against women. Nandita is the daughter of renowned Indian artist Jatin Das and Varsha Das, a writer. After her schooling at the Sardar Patel Vidyalaya in New Delhi, she went on to do her bachelor's degree in Geography and Master's from the Delhi School of Social Work. A former teacher at the Rishi Valley School, she began her acting career with a theatre group called Jannatya Manch. Her major film successes have been Deepa Mehta's "Fire" and "Earth" (alongside Aamir Khan), "Bawandar" (directed by Jagmohan Mundhra) and "Amaar Bhuvan" (directed by Mrinal Sen).

Nandita is going full steam ahead since those films. And anyone who has seen her on the silver screen will return time and again to view her films.

Source: http://www.thedailystar.net

Book fair by Muktadhara

Arif Mahmud - May 13, 2009

On the occasion of the birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore and Kazi Nazrul Islam, famous publication house Muktadhara is arranging a 20-day book fair on the premises of the Central Public Library in Shahbagh.

The organisers have displayed some of their rare books at a concession rate. The custormers will get a commission of 35 to 70 percent on every purchase. According to the organisers, if a customer buys books worth Tk 300 they will get a one-year membership of the readers’ association of Muktadhara.

The organisers further said that customers who purchase books worth Tk 500, will get a lifetime membership.The fair that began on May 8 will remain open to all from 10:00am to 8:00pm till May 28.

Source: http://www.newagebd.com

Stars gather for opening of Cannes Film Festival

Associated Press - May 13, 2009

CANNES, France — The red carpet is unfurled and the crowds are gathering on the French Riviera for the start of the 62nd Cannes Film Festival.

Festival jurors led by actress Isabelle Huppert will attend Wednesday's gala opener, Disney and Pixar Animation's 3-D adventure "Up."

It's the first animated film to open the world's most prestigious film festival. The next 12 days will see plenty of weightier fare, including movies by Quentin Tarantino, Lars von Trier, Jane Campion, Pedro Almodovar and Ang Lee.

The lineup looks strong, but festival organizers and industry attendees are apprehensive about how the worldwide recession will affect the glamorous, big-money event. The festival runs through May 24, when the top prize — the Palme d'Or — will be announced.

Source: http://www.google.com

Hrithik-Ash set to dazzle silver screen again

Agencies - May 12, 2009

Actors Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan are all set to dazzle the silver screen again with Sanjay Leela Bhansali's ‘Guzaarish’. 

The film, being co-produced by UTV, goes on floors in July. The high point is that Bhansali has turned music composer with ‘Guzaarish’, sources said. 

According to sources, Bhansali has completed four of the proposed eight tracks in the film. The two good looking actors have been earlier paired in ‘Dhoom 2’ and ‘Jodhaa Akbar’, both huge successes. 

Presently, Hrithik is busy with his home production ‘Kites’ and Aishwarya is shooting for Mani Ratnam's bilingual Hindi-Tamil film ‘Ravan’.

Source: http://www.screenindia.com

Charlize Theron punched on the face by Will Smith

Agencies - May 13, 2009

Charlize Theron was once punched on the face by actor Will Smith on the sets of their first movie. 

Smith was preparing to portray legendary boxer Muhammad Ali in a film when he starred alongside the blonde beauty in 'The Legend of Bagger Vance' in 2000 and accidentally punched her while displaying his boxing skills, reported ‘Femalefirst’. "The first time I worked with him he punched me in the face. He was training for 'Ali'. I encouraged him to show me a couple of moves. I was completely knocked out!" said the 33-year-old Theron. 

But the painful experience did not stop the actress from working with the actor again, who teamed up with the 40-year-old actor in 'Hancock' in 2008. The Academy winning actress also insisted that she loves working with Smith, despite falling victim to his powerful punch. 

"Seriously, though, I'd be happy to be punched out by Will anytime. He swore to me that it was an accident," said the actress.

Source: http://www.news.google.com

Hrithik and Barbara Mori to promote ‘Kites’ at Cannes

Bollywood Hungama - May 12, 2009

By now its common knowledge that Rakesh Roshan is taking his ambitious project ‘Kites’ to the prestigious Cannes film festival this year. However, the film won't be screened for the public or the media at Cannes; instead this is just a screening for potential buyers from the West. 

‘Kites’ is a story of love that goes beyond barriers, boundaries and cultures. The film stars Hrithik Roshan, Kangna Ranaut and Latino sensation Barbara Mori. The chemistry between Hrithik and Barbara is said to be among the high points of the film. 

‘Kites’ is the first film by Filmkraft that has a truly international appeal. Hence, the makers are leaving no stone unturned to promote the film at various international platforms. The Kites unit comprising of Hrithik Roshan, Rakesh Roshan, Barbara Mori and director Anurag Basu will be in Cannes from May 14-17. A specially prepared trailer will also be screened to attract potential international buyers. 

Indeed, the makers of ‘Kites’ are going full throttle to ensure that the film gets maximum publicity across various media.

Source: http://www.bollywoodhungama.com

Bidders respond to lower prices for contemporary art

By Christopher Michaud - May 13, 2009

NEW YORK (Reuters) - The first spring sale of contemporary and postwar art saw a fairly solid result on Tuesday as Sotheby's, and its clients adjusted to a scaled-down art market struggling with smaller auctions and sharply lower prices.

The sale's $47 million total including commission fell just shy of its low pre-sale estimate of $52 million, with 81 percent of the 48 lots on offer finding buyers.Sotheby's officials said they were pleased by the result, despite the sale's having come in at less than half the take just six months ago.

"The contemporary art market is alive and well" and "has responded to the recalibration," said Tobias Meyer, Sotheby's worldwide head of contemporary art, and the auctioneer.Officials pointed out that the sale moved some 80 percent of its offerings, by both number of works and their cumulative dollar value, versus the autumn sale when the figure was closer to two-thirds.

"We've seen a pullback in prices, of course," Meyer said, but not in activity. New buyers have joined an increasingly international bidding pool, while 25 percent of Tuesday's prices came in above the high estimates, he said.

In contrast, bidders at the November sales "got to the low estimate and just stopped," said senior international specialist Anthony Grant. "The ground feels a little bit more solid now."Both Sotheby's and rival Christie's tried to keep estimates conservative and secure works that have never or rarely been offered at auction. 

Tuesday's sale saw reasonably lively bidding, with several lots drawing up to half a dozen active bidders.The top lot, Jeff Koons' "Baroque Egg With Bow (Turquoise/Magenta)" sold for $5.5 million, but that was still short of the low estimate, hinting that buyers are still flinching at large cash outlays.On the other hand, Martin Kippenberger's untitled self-portrait from 1988 fetched $4,114,500, smashing the record for the German artist, who had major recent retrospectives at the Tate Modern and the Museum of Modern Art.

Alexander Calder's "Ebony Sticks in Semi-Circle," one of the artist's seminal mobiles, also did well, selling for $3.5 million, or more than three times the low estimate.Among casualties were works by Robert Rauschenberg and Robert Gober, estimated around $5 million and $3 million, respectively.

The auctions wrap on Wednesday with Christie's sale of postwar and contemporary art.

Source: http://uk.reuters.com

Beckham's childhood house fails to attract buyers

Agencies - May 12, 2009

In the times of recession, even the name of a celebrity like David Beckham is no guarantee to attract a good price. 

The childhood home of football star David Beckham had to be taken off the market after bidding stopped at a meager 215,000 pounds. The current owner of the house, Iftikar Mehmood had hoped that 'Becks effect' will fetch him a price of at least 500,000 pounds. 

Beckham lived in the East London house from his birth until he was two year old. The sports star, now with AC Milan, owns homes in Beverly Hills and Hertfordshire, ‘Daily Mail’ reported. The accountant, who had bought the house five years ago, did not know about its celebrity connection until local historian Colin Evans visited the house. Evans is now helping Mehmood to sell the house. 

However, only two buyers showed interest in the house but their bidding did not go beyond 215,000 pound. Evans still hopes that the house will fetch double the market value. 

"My faith in brand Beckham is 100 per cent still," Evans said.

Source: http://www.dailymail.com

Cyrus admits he’ll consider a movie career only if his films do well

Dipti Nagpaul D’Souza - May 12, 2009

You can never be prepared for Cyrus Broacha. We’re meeting at his Malabar Hill building for a toddle at the nearby Hanging Gardens and the funny man shows up in an old tee and boxers to walk his adopted stray. At the sight of our photographer, he quickly runs up and changes into a more respectable pair of shorts. “I think clothes are overrated. And I love the horrified look I get from guests when I turn up at events in jeans and loafers,” laughs Broacha as he feeds his pet a biscuit. 

The 38-year-old VJ, who shot to fame with his show Bakra on MTV, has explored theatre, live shows and radio. Now it is cinema, with his film 99 about to release. “It is supposed to be a fast-paced thriller with Kunal Khemu and me in the lead. But don’t ask me the story because I didn’t read the script beyond the first eight pages. All I remember is that I was made to wear a fat suit for the movie. But people don’t even realise I’m looking overweight; they think this is how I am!” 

Fruit N Nut, his next film, brings him together with his pal Kunal Vijaykar, who has directed the movie. “This one’s an infantile comedy — you’ll see us falling, cracking one-liners. Even Andaz Apna Apna seems serious when compared with it,” he blabbers on as he bribes Sandy, whom he adopted in 2000 after her injured mother delivered a litter, with another biscuit to pose for a picture. Broacha, however, isn’t too optimistic about either of the films. “I signed them in 2007 when anyone with Rs 5 crore became a filmmaker and there were more small directors than tigers in India. If even one of these films does well, I’ll seriously consider a career in acting. Else, I’ll work to make money till I can make my own film.” 

Despite having spent over a decade with MTV where he started his career as a VJ, the chap hasn’t moved on. Often, viewers hope that he would re-invent his brand of humour. But Broacha laughs off the suggestion, attributing it to his laziness and lack of ambition. “Besides, I’ve done some of my best interviews for MTV. I remember the first time I was to interview Amitabh Bachchan, we were all nervous because he was going through a low phase in career and was known to be moody. Upon introduction, he pulled out two pairs of glasses — one must have been from Shaan and the other from Yaarana — and asked me which one looked better. When I told him that both looked ugly, he said he thought so too and laughed out loud.” 

An avid cricket fan, Broacha gets animated when we start talking cricket. Even Sandy, who is now beginning to get bored, can sense it. So which team is he supporting? “Technically, I am supposed to promote Mumbai Indians but I haven’t even flown to South Africa, so I’m not sure I want to support them anymore,” he says, refusing to part with his wisecracks. “But I must say, Dr Vijay Mallya must be really happy. With his Royal Challengers in form, finally, something’s working out for him in sports.”

Source: http://www.screenindia.com

Vanessa Hudgens will get naked for right role

‘When the time is right,’ 20-year-old ‘High School Musical’ star will bare all

People.com - May 12, 2009

With her own nude photo scandal well in herpast, Vanessa Hudgens says she'd bare it all – for the right role.

"I will show nudity in a film when the time is right," Hudgens, 20, said in an interview with E! Online. "Right now, I wouldn't feel comfortable doing it."

So what would make her comfortable enough to be filmed in her birthday suit? "When the time's right, if it's an amazing movie that I'm really passionate about and that's what it calls for, then we'll see."

But the "High School Musical" star has more family-friendly fare in her future: She's currently attached to a film called "Beastly," billed as a modern day "Beauty and the Beast," and "Sucker Punch" about a young girl institutionalized by a wicked stepfather.

Source: http://www.msnbc.msn.com