Showing posts with label Attack. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Attack. Show all posts
A good film will find its audience; everybody knows that Shershaah was a hit, or everybody was talking about Freddy-Rakul Preet Singh
8:36 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; February 27, 2023)
Rakul Preet Singh clocked in five releases in 2022 and one at the beginning of 2023. It’s obviously a busy time in her career. Lately, the actress has also been making news for matters of the heart as she is dating actor-producer Jackky Bhagnani. Rakul, who is enjoying this phase of her career, believes that her work will speak for her. Excerpts from a chat with the actress:
Right after the pandemic, you had five releases (in 2022) — Attack, Runway 34, Cuttputlli, Doctor G and Thank God. What do you think is working in your favour?
I don’t put much thought into what I have done right because I always live in the present. The moment my films release, it becomes the past. My energies are always on what I need to do next and how I can do better projects and grow as an actor. I am grateful that things panned out the way they have. I am also grateful to all the makers who believed in me as I got to do diverse films — from a commercial movie like Cuttputlli to a thriller like Runway 34 and the campus comedy Doctor G, in which I played a small-town doctor. What’s most important is the love of the audience because box-office numbers are driven by too many factors.
You have been doing South films long before the audience started consuming them widely across the country, the way they are now. Lately, there has been a lot of debate about the content of South films being better than Bollywood.
We are creating a debate where there is none. It’s just an outcome of there being so many platforms and the fact that everyone has an opinion on social media. South Indian cinema has been celebrated for the longest time on Hindi GECs (general entertainment channels), where people watch these films. It’s the influx of too much consumption during the pandemic, which is why it became a talking point, and I am glad because those films needed to be celebrated. Regional and Hindi cinema both are a part of the Indian industry, so there is no comparison. Today, if a film is good, it will find its audience. We should rather speak about the amazing time that we are in, where a great exchange of content, artistes and directors is happening, and the fact that we can make such great international-level cinema using talent across the country.
There are a lot of films releasing directly on OTT these days. Do you think your film Chhatriwali , which was released on OTT, would have done well in theatres?
No, I haven’t had that thought because it was never meant to be for the theatres. Today it’s not about which medium the film releases on. Everybody knows that Shershaah was a hit, or everybody was talking about Freddy. A good film will find its audience, whether it’s through OTT or theatres. Sometimes, good movies like Runway 34 get way more appreciation on OTT. Of course, the box-office numbers matter when a film is released in the theatres, but I think we understand that we are going through a re-correction phase currently, and the box office alone does not define whether the film is good, or whether you are good.
But it does matter when it comes to cementing your position in the industry, right?
Fortunately or unfortunately, it does to some extent. There has been a backlog of films for two years. Films are being released every week; sometimes, there are two releases. How do you expect the audience to come and watch every film? It’s an expensive affair. In the South, there is a cap that the government has on the pricing of the tickets, which you do not have here. So, they pick that one film a month but that doesn’t mean that your movie is bad. It just means that people possibly don’t have money right now. This can be one of the factors. While numbers give you a positioning, the industry realises that it’s a sensitive time today. So, your work is possibly not just looked through the prism of your box-office numbers.
You aren’t hiding your relationship with actor-producer Jackky Bhagnani. Recently, there was buzz about your marriage…
The thing is that I have always been vocal and whenever that conversation happens, I will be open. Given the films I am shooting and the ones Jackky is producing, where do you think we have the time? Whenever it happens, I will be the first one to announce it. As of now, we are extremely busy with our work.
Why is Bollywood missing in action? Experts speak up
8:35 AM
Ashish Kumar Singh (HINDUSTAN TIMES; December 13, 2022)
This year saw action films featuring big stars, including Ayushmann Khurrana’s Anek, John Abraham’s Attack, Akshay Kumar’s Bachchhan Paandey and Ranbir Kapoor’s Shamshera, tank at the box office. When we ask experts on what’s wrong and how this can affect the future of the genre, the opinion is varied. Trade analyst Atul Mohan feels, “If a movie is good, it will work, irrespective of the genre. We don’t lack anywhere when it comes to the final product, but maybe, we lack in storytelling compared to films from the South. They tell stories rooted in their culture. But, Bollywood movies have lost their way.”
Actor Angad Bedi, who has featured in action films such as Tiger Zinda Hai (2017) and Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl (2020), says, “We have Pathaan releasing next year and (actor) Salman Khan’s Tiger Zinda Hai 3. I love action films.”
Action director Sham Kaushal says Bollywood has “witnessed a drastic change post Covid-19”. “People refrained from going to theatres in the first half of 2022. The fraternity will get back on its feet and things are positive now.” Having wrapped up the Shah Rukh Khan-starrer Dunki, Kaushal adds, “Nobody can predict how a film is going to work. But action movies will always be part of Bollywood.”
Trade analyst Taran Adarsh feels if a few action films don’t work at the box office, it doesn’t mean the future of the genre is in danger. “It (success or failure of a film) all depends on the merit. Let us not blame a genre for it. These are mere phases.”
Action director Ejaz Gulab feels “filmmakers have started roping in a lot of action directors from Hollywood” and that’s not working: “The makers execute only what is told, hence their work lacks the Indian flavour.”
Bedi adds, “We also have great action masters. Hollywood action masters are good for their techniques. But there is a personality that suits Indian people and that can only come from Indian action masters.”
I reminded Allu Arjun that he had told me during Sarrainodu that he wants to put Telugu cinema on world map-Rakul Preet Singh
8:27 AM
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; April 23, 2022)
After a two year lull due to the pandemic, life is more than looking up for Rakul Preet Singh — be it with a string of films set to release in theatre this year or matters of the heart. In a conversation with Bombay Times, the actress opens up about the many exciting experiences she’s been through recently, like reuniting with Ajay Devgn after De De Pyaar De (2019) for Runway 34, which is also being directed and produced by the actor and headlining interesting projects featuring her in diverse characters. Excerpts…
Runway 34 is your second film hitting the big screen within a month. Isn’t that really exciting after a lull for over two years?
It’s a great relief to be back in the theatre… I’ve been missing it a lot. There have been times when the wait seemed too long, but now I am very excited because of the films that have been lined up for release this year. My role in each of these films is distinct, and they are all theatrical experiences.
So, the wait has worked in your favour. You have always emphasized the desire to play diverse characters from the beginning of your career. Do you see that happening now?
Well, if you ask me what excites me to go to the set, then this is precisely the reason — doing something different as an actor every day! If I am stepping into the shoes of a character I’ve never played before, then the amount of work it requires from me gives me an adrenaline rush. Besides, I am an actor, my job is not to just play myself in every film. Having said that, I would like to add that I want to do commercial films as well — the naach-gaana type. A movie like De De Pyaar De (DDPD) had immense scope to perform. I believe I can attain that kind of diversity; I hope the makers see that, too. I have been lucky with scripts that have come to me so far — right from DDPD, Sardar Ka Grandson to Attack and Runway 34. Fortunately, the films releasing this year will give a glimpse into the diversity that I have explored. I hope they will change the kind of scripts that come my way, and I am hungry for that.
You had said that when a movie releases in a theatre, it gives an actor a reality check. Do you worry about the box-office figures?
I would be lying if I say that I don’t. Like it or not, the box-office numbers define the success of a film. Personally, success, for me, is standing by a good project. However, your position in the market changes with the box-office numbers a film rakes in, even if your role is inconsequential. Sometimes, an actor may have delivered a great performance in a smaller film, but people don’t know about it because that project is not a box-office success. The influx of digital has changed that — the films and performances get appreciated, irrespective of the scale or lack of box-office numbers. There has to be a balance between the two, so don’t decide the fate of everyone associated with a film on the basis of the box-office numbers. It shouldn’t take away from the efforts put in by the director and the actors. We have been through challenging times in the past two years, and the need of the hour is to come together to support every film.
You are reuniting with your De De Pyaar De hero Ajay Devgn in Runway 34, and this time around, he is also directing the film. How was the experience?
It’s been an amazing experience. I have always heard that Ajay sir is one of the most technically-aware actors. Being directed by him was a novel experience. Runway 34 is not an easy film. He is producing, directing and acting in it… I don’t know how he dons multiple hats at a time. It’s difficult to shoot on a plane and capture that kind of turbulence and emotions. He had seven cameras in the cockpit to avoid missing out on any expression and used a real simulator cockpit. It was a completely new experience for me to see someone directing a difficult film and acting in it. The space I worked in with Ajay sir earlier was a slice of-life film, but Runway 34 is a serious and hard-hitting one, so the temperament was very different on the set.
So, who do you like more — Ajay the actor or Ajay the director?
Why do I have to choose? (laughs!). On a serious note, Ajay sir knows exactly what he wants. He is extremely aware, focused and there is so much to learn from him. He has been in the industry for so many years, so it’s amazing to learn the craft from his understanding of it.
You have struck a fine balance between Bollywood and South cinema. Earlier, the popular opinion was that Bollywood was the ultimate destination for every actor, but the scenario has changed today. How does it feel to see the regional cinema flourish and prosper today?
It’s great. I began my journey there and owe my learning and growth to Southern cinema. I also get my punctuality from there (smiles!). The amount of love I got from the industry and people is irreplaceable and to see that cinema flourish makes my heart happy. When I was shooting with Bunny (Allu Arjun) for Sarrainodu (2016), he said that he wanted to put Telugu cinema on the world map. So, when Pushpa released, I called him and reminded him of that. It’s heartening to see them do so well. Ultimately, that’s how it should be. The language should not be a deterrent or the deciding factor. Imagine the kind of varied content these industries can produce as one unit. Only we can do it because we are such a diverse country.
You have spoken about the importance of the three F’s — films, fitness and food in your life, now there is an ‘L’ as well (she is dating actor producer Jackky Bhagnani).In fact, in an interview, you had mentioned that you wanted to date a guy who was taller than you, and you should be able to look up to him even when you are wearing heels…
And that happened (laughs!). I think I send my message out to the universe. Love is important in everyone’s life. Having a partner is as normal as having friends and family. It’s a happy space to be in. Why does any relationship have to be baggage? No relationship, whether it is your partner, friends or parents, should give you stress in life. If it’s stressful, then it’s not needed.
(Crisp) Movie Review: ATTACK - PART 1 by FENIL SETA
11:59 AM
Attack - Part 1 is the story of India’s and the world’s first super soldier. This whole concept and certain scenes remind one of several Hollywood films. Yet, it’s a watchable fare. The first half is entertaining and the way John turns into the super soldier is worth watching. And it’s explained in a mass-friendly manner. The Parliament attack track starts well and raises the tension level. A few scenes here are very convenient though. The finale is underwhelming and the makers should have been a little more imaginative here. Speaking of performances, John Abraham is in a very fine form after a long time. He gives it all and one can see that he’s enjoying playing the part. Jacqueline Fernandez is lovely in a small role. Rakul Preet Singh puts up a great act. Both the heroines have a crucial part and are not mere eye candy in the movie. Elham Ehsas is okay as the villain. Prakash Raj is excellent, as always. Ratna Pathak Shah is great but vanishes after a point. Rajit Kapur is decent. All in all, Attack - Part 1 is a timepass action entertainer and worth watching once.
My rating - *** out of 5!
Fenil's Bollywood Talk # 719
8:45 AM
WILL ATTACK END THE SEASON OF FLOPS FOR JOHN ABRAHAM?
John Abraham had a great 2018 and 2019. 3 out of 5 films – Parmanu, Satyameva Jayate and Batla House – were huge hits. Even the 2 flops – Romeo Akbar Walter and Pagalpanti – had a decent opening and would have worked if the reports were positive. In 2020, the actor had no release due to the pandemic. In 2021, Mumbai Saga was one of the first films to be released in cinemas. But due to low excitement, fears of the second wave and negative word of mouth, the film flopped miserably. A lot of hopes, meanwhile, were pinned on Satyameva Jayate 2 as the first part was a smashing success. Sadly, the second part failed to generate any buzz. It opened at just Rs. 2.92 crore and ended its run with a paltry Rs. 13.10 crore as the audience found it very poor.
John Abraham is now back with Attack, which releases tomorrow. The film was supposed to release on January 28 and was pushed due to the third wave. The teaser promised a tale of a super soldier who saves the Parliament of India from terrorists. Not just one, but two theatrical trailers were released, with the second promo getting a good response from the audience. There’s a curiosity to see the movie due to its unique concept. Besides John, the film also stars Jacqueline Fernandez and Rakul Preet Singh.
During Satyameva Jayate 2, John had made several tall claims. However, while promoting Attack, he’s avoiding a repeat and wants the content to talk for itself. Interestingly, this is the first part of the Attack franchise with the sequel already being planned, even before the release of part 1!
The hype for Attack, however, is limited. Moreover, many haven’t yet seen the big-budget RRR, which was released last week, and has been unanimously loved. Hence, for a section of the audience, RRR will be the first choice. Attack will open in the range of Rs. 3-4.50 crore and can grow if public reports are encouraging. There’s no major Hindi release next week and hence, Attack will have a clean run till April 13.
The other big release is the Hollywood film, Morbius. It is a Marvel movie and connected to the Spider-Man and Venom universe. Marvel is a big brand but for Morbius, the excitement is hardly there. Many are not even aware of its release and if they are aware, some don’t know that it’s a Marvel film. An opening of Rs. 1-1.50 crore is expected.
Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone to shoot a flamenco dance number for Pathaan in Spain
8:19 AM
After a 10-day schedule in Mallorca, Pathaan’s unit moves to Cádiz to shoot flamenco dance number with leads Shah Rukh and Deepika
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; March 25, 2022)
Only days after we got a sneak peek into the latest schedule of Pathaan by way of some leaked pictures, there is more news trickling in about the espionage thriller. mid-day has learnt that Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone, who were shooting in Mallorca over the past 10 days, have now moved to Cadiz — a port city in southwestern Spain — for the next leg. Director Siddharth Anand has lined up a lavish song shoot in the picturesque locales of Jerez de la Frontera. What makes the dance number all the more special is that it will see the superstars try their hand at flamenco, a popular dance form that originated in southern Spain.
Earlier this week, the leads began their stint in Cadiz by canning a chase sequence on the streets of the port city. On Thursday, it was time for Khan and Padukone to put on their dancing shoes. A trade source says, “Jerez de la Frontera is known for its flamenco music and dance. The song, which is currently being filmed, has a flamenco influence and is choreographed by Bosco Martis. By the time Siddharth completes the song shoot, John Abraham — who had flown down to India for the promotions of Attack — will return to Spain. He will film some confrontation scenes with Shah Rukh, after which the director can call it a wrap on the Spain schedule. The unit is expected to fly back by March-end, and will then turn their attention to the patchwork shoot in Mumbai.”
Considering Pathaan is one of the biggest releases of 2023, there has been tremendous curiosity about the spy thriller. The fans’ interest piqued further when the pictures from Mallorca hit the Internet. The source reveals that over the last week, the unit shot a song in Mallorca. “The track, titled Nasha, is sung by Shilpa Rao and choreographed by Vaibhavi Merchant. The lyrics are a mix of Spanish and Hindi. Apart from the number, Shah Rukh also shot an elaborate action scene with John in the coves of the island.”
Pushpa: The Rise - Part 01 brings cheer to BO collections even as theatre owners fear implications of restrictions
8:28 AM
Allu Arjun’s offering brings cheer to BO collections even as theatre owners fear implications of restrictions
Mohar Basu, Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; January 11, 2022)
Box-office collections had barely begun to see an up-tick when the fresh set of curfews were imposed in Maharashtra amid soaring Coronavirus cases. With this state imposing a night curfew, and Delhi continue to down the shutters of its cinema halls, losses are being incurred by not only film producers, but also theatre business-owners.
Manoj Desai, executive director of G7 multiplex and Maratha Mandir, says that the night curfew will impact business since late night shows were running to packed audiences. “It’s been a full house for our night shows within the permissible 50 per cent occupancy. Now we will have to stop that. A lot of viewers prefer the 9.30 pm show that ends at 12.00 midnight, but those shows have been cancelled. We don’t even have new releases, so we are airing reruns of '83, and Pushpa: The Rise - Part 01 among others,” he says, adding that the Allu Arjun starrer’s performance has been surprisingly pleasant. “Despite releasing on OTT, the film is going strong. We have around four shows of Pushpa, all of which have attracted large crowds.”
Trade analyst Taran Adarsh says that at the end of its fourth weekend, Pushpa earned Rs 80.48 cr.
Ranveer Singh’s 83 too, despite soaring cases in Mumbai, continued to pull crowds and clock numbers that match its previous week record. Adarsh reveals that it has crossed the Rs 100 crore mark at the domestic box office. A trade source says, “83 hasn’t fared as expected but due to the lack of other releases, it is enjoying a free run.”
Meanwhile, producers are revisiting the release dates of their films. As reported earlier, both Attack and Prithviraj are rumoured to be moving their film from the scheduled Republic Day release. Though there is no official announcement yet, trade sources say Shaabash Mithu and Badhaai Do will also revisit their dates. A new slate will be arrived at only after the ongoing wave is behind us.
Fenil's Bollywood Talk # 707
9:59 AM
MANY MORE FILMS GETS POSTPONED DUE TO THE COVID-19 THIRD WAVE
Last week, we had informed viewers how the Shahid Kapoor-starrer Jersey, which was scheduled for a release on December 31, 2021, was pushed indefinitely. The decision was taken due to the rapid rise in Coronavirus cases and also after the Delhi government ordered cinemas to shut down. It gave an indication that soon many more states would either impose restrictions and that the release of more and more films would get postponed.
As expected, RRR’s makers announced that their grand period actioner won’t be able to make it to cinemas on January 7. Yesterday, on January 5, it was announced that Radhe Shyam, which was supposed to arrive in cinemas on January 14, will now release at a later date. Similarly, Akshay Kumar-starrer Prithviraj, too, won’t be arriving on the scheduled date of January 21. In short, most of the January releases have moved ahead. Only the John Abraham-starrer Attack has stuck to it’s January 28 release date. But the industry is sure that the action film will also get pushed.
Besides Delhi, cinemas in Bihar have also been ordered to shut. In Haryana, cinemas are told to close in five districts with a high number of cases. In Punjab, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha and Rajasthan, a night curfew has been imposed and cinemas are told to operate with 50% occupancy. In Gujarat, a night curfew is in place in 8 major cities. All cinemas in the state can function with 100% occupancy. Meanwhile, in Uttar Pradesh, districts with more than 1,000 active cases are asked to run cinemas with 50% occupancy. In Tamil Nadu, cinemas are told to operate at 50% and the state will have a lockdown on Sundays. As for Karnataka, a weekend curfew has been imposed, when cinemas will have to shut shop. And on the weekdays, theaters can run with 50% occupancy.
These are the rules in place as of January 6, 2021. At any time, these states can impose more restrictions. Also, other states can also go for curbs. The crucial state of Maharashtra, surprisingly, is still running as before but with 50% occupancy. The government of the state is very strict and prefers to shut cinemas first and open them at the end of the unlock process. As a result, the industry is wondering how Maharashtra is still allowed to reopen though no one is complaining. However, with the daily number of cases all set to cross the 20,000 mark in Mumbai alone, it is believed that it’s only a matter of time before cinemas will be asked to halt operations in the state.
Hence, it can now be safely said that there won’t be a single Bollywood release in January, and also in the first 2 weeks of February. The good news is that the rate of hospitalization is minimal as the Omicron variant is causing mild illness. Many are recovering in home isolation. And experts have predicted that cases should peak in the next 10-12 days. As a result, one can expect the unlock process to begin as early as next month. It now remains to be seen if cinema halls would also be allowed to restart in February or will it be once again a very long wait for the industry.
This can’t keep going on forever. We’ve to be able to defeat the virus-Rakul Preet Singh
8:27 AM
Rakul Preet Singh is worried about Omicron harming livelihoods in film industry
Titas Chowdhury (HINDUSTAN TIMES; January 4, 2021)
With four films lined up for release this year – Attack, Runway 34, Doctor G and Thank God, actor Rakul Preet Singh feels 2022 is going to be “a super important year” for her. Talking about it, she says, “I’ve been waiting for my work to come out. I’m glad that four of my films have announced their theatrical release dates. Hopefully, there will be more releases.”
However, the surge in Coronavirus cases is a matter of concern for Singh, much like anyone else. Worried that the theatrical release of many films might be delayed again, she adds, “A lot of people have been struggling with getting their films out. There’s so much money riding on each film. The livelihoods of so many people, apart from actors, directors and producers, depend on films.”
Currently, the fear of an impending lockdown affecting film schedules and shutdown of theatres all across the country is looming in the air. And the 31-year-old prays for brighter days. “The rise in Omicron cases is a sad reality. Everything is unpredictable. All we can do is hope that people get vaccinated, take necessary precautions and follow protocols. This can’t keep going on forever. We’ve to be able to defeat the virus,” she shares.
The film industry suffered significant losses over the last two years due to the pandemic. Ask her if she feels that showbiz is mentally prepared for another wave, and Singh says, “I guess, yes. However, the industry may suffer a hit again. The films that released in 2021 did well. We were all going back to our normal lives. But we have to wait and see what the future has in store for us.”
Cinema closure: After Jersey and RRR, Attack and Prithviraj could bite the dust?
9:19 AM
Spiking cases, closure of Delhi theatres egg filmmakers to defer theatrical releases again. After Jersey and RRR, Attack and Prithviraj could bite the dust
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; January 3, 2022)
Barely five months ago, movie buffs were celebrating the reopening of cinema halls in the aftermath of a devastating second wave. Three days into 2022, and it appears as though the events of 2020 are unfolding again. After makers of Shahid Kapoor’s Jersey, and RRR, helmed by S S Rajamouli, post-poned the release of their films, other offerings lined up for a cinematic outing this month are also apparently heading back to their calendars. With cinemas in Delhi and Haryana being shut, this move only seems imminent.
A source tells mid-day, “Obviously, [Attack and Prithviraj] will follow suit. The films will incur losses if a sector as massive as Delhi is inaccessible. While the production houses are yet to announce their decision, all the films are possibly going to be moved.”
Only if the lockdown leads to a timely drop in Coronavirus cases, encouraging governments to allow theatres to run, will the films stick to their schedule, adds the source.
As Jersey defers release amid soaring cases, distributors brave for another period of lull
8:30 AM
Mohar Basu, Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; December 30, 2021)
In the wake of soaring Coronavirus cases, a sense of fear has gripped the film industry. Discussions about an impending halt on theatrical releases finally took centre-stage after makers of Shahid Kapoor’s Jersey pushed the film from its December 31 release date.
Cinema halls in Delhi have been temporarily shut down, and a similar development in Mumbai is anticipated as cases inch close to the 1400-mark daily.
Trade analyst Taran Adarsh doesn’t deny that the theatre industry could see another period of lull, but he doesn’t see the need to fret, just yet. “As of now, S S Rajamouli has assured us that RRR, which is the biggest pan-India film of recent times, will release on January 7. They have hosted an event in Kerala today as well.”
He acknowledges that the closure of cinema halls in the capital has come as a blow. “It’s a big market for Bollywood,” he says, but highlights that with RRR releasing as scheduled, other film’s from the distributor’s stable are also likely to hit the marquee. “Pen Films’ Jayantilal Gada is the Hindi distributor of the film. He will also distribute Attack, that releases late in January. The next few weeks are crucial to predict the fate of Hindi films. Akshay Kumar’s Prithviraj is also among them.”
While filmmakers’ decision is only one part of the issue, Adarsh admits that box-office collections won’t look promising unless people are willing to head to theatres. The lukewarm performance of Ranveer Singh-starrer '83, he says, has only aggravated their fears. “The film held fort in the metros, but it hasn’t [earned] as much as people had expected.” The word-of-mouth promotions too, he suggests, did little to improve its performance.
While one may blame the rising cases as reason behind the film’s lack-lustre Rs 60 crore collection, Adarsh points to the fact that collections of Spider-Man or Pushpa, which also released recently, weren’t compromised.
“We can make several excuses, but that won’t change the fact that a lot of people didn’t watch 83 in theatres. It is worrisome, but as the industry adage goes, you win some, you lose some.”
Meanwhile, Gaiety Galaxy owner Manoj Desai says that while they are currently functioning at 50 per cent capacity, they may be forced to air re-runs if filmmakers continue to defer releases. “This may continue until a huge announcement of another release is made. Now, filmmakers are again scared to release their films. It is a scary situation.”
Cinema shutdown in Delhi will impact major Bollywood releases, say stakeholders
8:28 AM
Industry stakeholders say the move will lead to ‘irreparable losses’, and urge the govt to instead introduce safety measures such as allowing only double vaccinated audiences
Niharika Lal (BOMBAY TIMES; December 30, 2021)
The Delhi government’s order on Tuesday shutting down cinema theatres and multiplexes, in view of the sharp rise in omicron cases in the city, has come as a big jolt to the industry that was just getting back on its feet. An exhibitor says, “We have seen packed theatres this month for films like Spider-Man: No Way Home. The last week of the year is when people prefer going out and watching films. This will be a huge revenue loss for cinemas. ”
‘CINEMA SHUTDOWN COMES AT THE BUSIEST TIME OF THE YEAR’
Theatres in the rest of the country, including other parts of NCR and Mumbai, remain open for now. However, with Coronavirus cases rising across the country, exhibitors fear more cities will soon introduce restrictions and lockdown measures.
Akshaye Rathi, director, Aashirwad Theatres, and an industry expert, says, “This is the holiday season, when kids are on winter break, and business is robust across the sectors, including cinemas. It’s unfortunate that a sector is being closed at this specific time of the year, especially taking into account the scenario in the last one-and-a-half years when cinemas were closed for months. Be it Delhi, or other state governments who are contemplating lockdown, authorities need to find a more pragmatic approach. For example, only allowing double vaccinated audiences to enter cinemas, and other such measures.”
Girish Johar, a producer and film business expert, asks, “Why only cinemas? Cinemas are not being treated as a business. After Sooryavanshi opened big, people were coming back to the cinema. We have seen how Spider-Man: No Way Home changed everything and is now clocking around 200 crores at the Indian box office, which is a big deal. So, what now? Thoda gire, thoda uthe, phir se ye chot. We really hope Delhi gives some relaxation to cinemas.”
Rajendra Singh Jyala, Chief Programming Officer, INOX Pvt Ltd, adds, “Whether it was Spider-Man or '83, theatres had good occupancy, and moviegoers came out to watch these films because they found cinemas to be safe. We’ve worked so hard to gain this confidence. This year-end week is one of the busiest weekends for cinemas. In fact, even on Monday-Tuesday, we had over 50% occupancy in cinemas across NCR, which is a good number for weekday occupancy. We had almost 100% occupancy last weekend. While a few moviegoers may go to watch films in Noida and Gurgaon as Delhi cinemas are closed, this shutdown will adversely affect not just the business of films which are currently running, but upcoming releases, too.”
CONSIDER DOUBLE VACCINATION, REINTRODUCE 50% CAPACITY, BUT RETHINK SHUTDOWN: MULTIPLEX ASSOCIATION OF INDIA
The Multiplex Association of India has urged the Delhi government to consider introducing a double vaccination requirement to enter cinemas, instead of a complete shutdown. Kamal Gianchandani, President, Multiplex Association of India, said in a statement, “The Delhi Government’s decision to shut down cinemas in Delhi while enforcing the ‘yellow’ alert of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) has caused massive uncertainty and could lead to irreparable damage for the Indian film industry. After being allowed to reopen, cinemas have already demonstrated an ability to operate safely for the public and employees via usage of enhanced ventilation systems, hygiene, and other safety protocols. Not a single outbreak of COVID-19 anywhere around the world has been traced to a cinema. While we fully understand the need at the government’s end to take necessary preventive measures, we’d request that cinemas should get equal treatment with comparable industries and institutions.”
“Instead of closing the cinemas, we’d urge the Delhi government to consider introducing a double vaccination requirement to enter cinemas, as is the case in some of the other states (including Maharashtra). Alternatively, the seating capacity restriction of 50% can be reintroduced at cinemas. We call on the government to recognise the unique social, cultural and economic value of the Indian film industry, and to provide the support it so desperately needs to survive this unprecedented period,” the statement added.
DELHI’S THE SECOND-BIGGEST MARKET FOR BOLLYWOOD; THIS WILL IMPACT FUTURE RELEASES: INDUSTRY EXPERTS
Producer and film business expert Girish Johar says that the closure of cinemas in Delhi can have a ripple effect. “The reason is that Delhi is one of the top two cities from the revenue point of view of Bollywood films. I don’t think that producers will release films when they are on tenterhooks.”
Akshaye Rathi, director, Aashirwad Theatres, and an industry expert, says, “The biggest territory for Bollywood films is Maharashtra, which is already operating at 50% capacity. Now, with the second biggest market – Delhi – shutting down, it is too much of a compromise revenue-wise for producers to continue releasing films, especially films which do well in Hindi-speaking markets. For a film like Valimai, there may not be that big of an impact because its main market is Tamil Nadu, but for an RRR or Prithviraj, it is a very tricky situation.”
Makers of Shahid Kapoor-starrer Jersey, have already postponed its release while upcoming films like Prithviraj and John Abraham’s Attack may also be impacted.
I can’t visualize myself on OTT; I am a big screen hero-John Abraham
7:41 AM
Birthday boy John Abraham shares why he isn’t likely to do web projects any time soon
Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; December 17, 2021)
Actor John Abraham doesn’t believe in crafting answers to please other people. He would rather say what he truly feels, and that’s evident when we ask him whether he would follow in the steps of his contemporaries and release a film on OTT platforms for any reason.
“I believe, in my head, I am a big screen hero, and I will appear on the large screen,” he continues, “At this point, I can’t even visualise myself appearing for a subscription fee (on OTT). All my films have been designed for the big screen for the next three years. I don’t have the time to do anything else outside of big screen films at this point... But never say never.”
The 49-year-old, who celebrates his birthday today, also believes that nothing can match the experience of watching a film in a theatre. “Take Sooryavanshi, for example. Watch it [in the theatre] with an audience and see the experience you have. Then go back home and see the experience you have watching a film on a tablet. You tell me the difference,” Abraham says, adding, “Don’t get me wrong. We make OTT films, we respect those platforms. But some films are not OTT films.”
Busy with a packed schedule, the actor’s 2022 is set to be hectic. He confirms that he is starring in the film Pathan, also said to co-star Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone.
“My film Attack releases on Republic Day 2022, then there’s Ek Villain Returns somewhere in June, on Eid. I have no idea about Pathan’s release, because we have not yet finished shooting for it, so I cannot comment on it,” Abraham concludes.
Makers confirm theatrical release of Gangubai Kathiawadi, RRR, Attack
8:19 AM
BOMBAY TIMES (September 9, 2021)
Denying the rumours that Gangubai Kathiawadi, RRR and Attack could have an OTT release, the makers in a statement said that the films will be released in theatres.
Producer Jayantilal Gada’s banner, which has produced the movie, in a statement posted on their website, said, “We would like to clarify that Gangubai Kathiawadi, RRR & Attack will release in cinemas. There have been several rumours doing the rounds about these films releasing on OTT platforms before cinemas which are untrue. These magnum opus films are made for the big screen experience and would be releasing in theatres — Dr Jayantilal Gada Chairman and MD Pen Studios.”
Starring Alia Bhatt, Gangubai Kathiawadi is directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. The actress also features in S S Rajamouli’s magnum opus RRR, which is headlined by Jr NTR, Ram Charan and Ajay Devgn, among others. Attack, featuring John Abraham, Jacqueline Fernandez, and Rakul Preet Singh in lead roles, is an action-thriller. The film is the Hindi remake of the Malayalam movie Ayyappanum Koshiyum.
Save the dates: Bollywood all set to woo audience with theatrical releases
12:32 PM
After 'Bellbottom' locks big-screen release amid buzz that theatres may reopen in July, John Abraham’s 'Attack' books I-Day slot; 'Bunty Aur Babli 2' and '83' join fray
Uma Ramasubramanian, Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; June 17, 2021)
On Tuesday, Akshay Kumar announced that his spy thriller, 'Bellbottom', will have a big-screen release on July 27. The announcement came amid trade buzz that theatres across the country may soon throw their doors open. While the Punjab government has allowed cinemas to operate at 50 per cent capacity from June 15, it is heard that other states may follow suit by July 1.
Amit Sharma, MD, Miraj Entertainment, breaks it down, stating, “In Maharashtra, districts on Level 2 can have theatres functioning at 50 per cent occupancy. So, we’ve procured permission to reopen cinemas in Chandrapur and Vasai. Unless we go to Level 1, we can’t get 100 per cent occupancy.”
Kunal Sawhney, senior vice president, operations, Carnival Cinemas, says that exhibitors and filmmakers are hoping that movie halls will be up and running latest by July 15. “We heard that Telangana might reopen theatres soon. On our part, we have begun the sanitisation process and getting our cinemas [in order].”
This has created a flurry of activity in Bollywood as makers are quickly lining up releases that have been awaiting their turn at the marquee over the past six to 10 months. While Kumar is leading from the front with 'Bellbottom', trade analyst Komal Nahta says, “People were expecting the announcement of 'Sooryavanshi'’s [release]. The makers are perhaps waiting for every state to open completely before making an announcement.”
In all likelihood, John Abraham will follow the superstar as his 'Attack' will hit screens over the Independence Day weekend. An insider reveals, “While John’s Eid release 'Satyameva Jayate 2' had to be deferred, 'Attack' will meet its August 13 release. The exhibitors want to give 'Sooryavanshi' and '83' their due for standing by them through 2020. It is possible that the cop caper will arrive in October, followed by Ranveer Singh’s cricket drama in November.”
Yash Raj Films, a staunch supporter of the exhibitors’ community, has four movies in the pipeline. “They will get into action by September with the 'Bunty Aur Babli 2', followed by 'Shamshera', 'Jayeshbhai Jordaar', and finally 'Prithviraj',” adds the source.
No Coronavirus spreed-breaker for John Abraham
8:30 AM
Abraham shot for ads and movies all through the lockdown as he didn’t want to let a pandemic stall things timeout
Prashant Singh (HINDUSTAN TIMES; October 27, 2020)
Back in March-end, when the Covid-19-induced lockdown brought things to a standstill, the Hindi film industry, too, came to a grinding halt. But regardless of the nationwide shutdown, a few actors such as Akshay Kumar and John Abraham refused to let Coronavirus become an impediment for a long period of time.
So, while Kumar’s exploits during the lockdown are well known, not many are aware that Abraham, too, “was at work throughout”. “Initially, (around March-April), when he couldn’t step out of his home or office for shoots, even then John constantly kept himself busy with (digital) narrations and prep work for his upcoming movies,” says a source.
In terms of shooting, during the lockdown itself, Abraham started with wrapping up his special appearance in a Nikkhil Advani-produced and Arjun Kapoor-Rakul Preet Singh starrer project. And then, he finished work on Sanjay Gupta’s Mumbai Saga, too. “John was very keen to finish work on Saga because the film’s shoot was abruptly stopped in March due to the lockdown, and so he went all out to finish the shoot, and that too at multiple locations,” says the insider.
Not just that, Abraham also shot for two-three ad films, recently. And a few days back, he flew to Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, to start shooting for Satyameva Jayate 2, where he is currently working on the Milap Zaveri directorial. The source says, “John never wanted to let the pandemic stall things for him. Even though the fear is still around, especially when he is shooting at public places, John always believed that sitting at home for too long can’t be an option as everyone has to start work at some point.”
Next up for Abraham is his home production, Attack, that got “a bit delayed” due to the pandemic. “He will wrap up work on Satyameva... in a month or two. And then, the work on Attack will kick off,” says the insider, adding, “John knows that people are still scared (of Coronavirus), but with all the precautions and guidelines in place, he is happy to have started work, especially since a number of livelihoods depend on film shoots.”
We will be back to work full steam, but by then, who knows how much time we may have lost-John Abraham
8:30 AM
Rachana Dubey (BOMBAY TIMES; July 31, 2020)
With the government announcing Unlock 3.0, the film industry is gearing up to start more shoots in the weeks to come. The makers of the John Abraham-starrer, Mumbai Saga, had talked about their plans to go back on the floors soon. In conversation with BT, the actor spoke about what he feels about returning to a set after a long spell, and the lessons learnt during the Coronavirus lockdown. Excerpts...
Several TV shows have gone back on floors and film units are also planning to resume shoots gradually. Your film, Mumbai Saga, has a few days of work left. What are your thoughts about going back on a set after so many months?
Various industry associations have come together and laid down detailed guidelines for sanitisation, health and safety. The problem is implementing those on a long-term basis, that is what the concern is. Things have changed drastically, and there will be a new normal now. Will everything get back to exactly how it was before? Even if it does, it will take a long, long time. We will get back to work full steam, but by then, who knows how much time we may have lost. Talking about Mumbai Saga, it requires four days of work from me. We were half-way done with Attack; we had a crew from London and South Africa working on it, so perhaps, we will have to wait to get our forces back together on that one.
While we are unlocking in phases, did the last few months give you time to introspect?
I have realised that self-introspection and being able to live with yourself is what you need to do. We don’t want to face a lot of things in life and that is why we constantly try to stay busy. This situation has taught us that we have no option, but to deal with uncomfortable realities. We have all learnt to work from home. I hope people become more considerate and cleaner than before. I hope that we return to cleaner sets and a cleaner environment. It took a pandemic to make India a cleaner place. I always focus on the good things that will come out of this.
Did you use the time to cultivate new hobbies or learn something new? Also, in these months of lockdown, we saw a lot of actors being active on social media. We didn’t see much of you out there…
I can’t suddenly start cultivating new hobbies and putting it all out on social media. I am sorry, but I enjoy the space I am in. I am not a social media slave, though I think that it’s a fantastic space to convey messages at the right time. But, I can’t go beyond that. I’d rather belong to the stone age than allow myself to go down that route.
So, what kept you engaged all these months?
I’ve been reading a lot, as I enjoy it. Pre and post lockdown, I am the same person, nothing has changed for me. Even before all this happened, I hardly went out and have always relished home food. That part about me hasn’t changed. On the work front, we have used the time to build our content bank. We have to understand where we are heading, and my team and I are focussed on doing that. It takes up a lot of my time.
I would’ve had 3 releases this year-Rakul Preet Singh
2:11 PM
During career’s longest break due to lockdown, Rakul Preet Singh is studying business management online and hoping for the best
Akash Bhatnagar (MUMBAI MIRROR; May 21, 2020)
Rakul Preet Singh made her Bollywood debut in Divya Khosla Kumar’s directorial debut, Yaariyan, in 2014. But it was last year, that she caught the eye with Luv Ranjan’s De De Pyaar De, in which she played Londoner Aisha, who falls in love with Ajay Devgn’s Ashish, a man almost double her age. The actress hails it as a “special film as it kickstarted my career” and gave her the opportunity to work with two of her idols. “I am a fan of both Ajay sir and Tabu ma’am (who plays Ajay’s ex-wife in the film). On the sets, they treated me like an equal,” she gushes, adding that it was the story’s tone and her part that sealed the deal for her. “I was getting to play my age in a film that talked about age-gap in relationships in a new way.”Sometimes, the theme inevitably transcended the screen. “I remember telling Ajay sir that I was two when I sang for the first time. It was 'Rukk Rukk Rukk' (from Ajay and Tabu’s 1994 action-drama Vijaypath). He laughed and told me not to mention it again. I just quipped, ‘Isn’t it what our film is about?’” Rakul laughs.
Recently, Bhushan Kumar informed Mirror (May 7) that a follow-up to the 2019 romcom is on the cards. Ask Rakul about it and she shares excitedly, “I used to message Akiv sir (director, Ali), asking when we would do a sequel. I got to know from the news, too, and I am already looking forward to working with the same team again,” she says.The actress was looking at a busy year at work before the Coronavirus-induced lockdown broke the momentum. “I would have had three releases this year, Attack (with John Abraham), a film with Arjun (Kapoor) and Indra (Kumar) sir’s film with Ajay sir and Sid (Sidharth Malhotra),” she sighs, confident that after watching her in these films, “people will definitely approach me with more diverse work”.
Prod her on Indra Kumar’s film that reunites her with her De De Pyaar De and Marjaavaan co-stars and was to start last month, and she says, “Now, I don’t know when it will begin, but I am excited about it. It is a fun film in the social-comedy-drama space. Indra sir has an amazing comic timing.”
Till that happens, she’s keeping herself busy with yoga and reading scripts, some of which have got her nod. Recently, she also enrolled for an online crash course in Business Management. “I believe in living in the present. All of us thought of doing a lot of things in 2020, but here we are, sitting at home,” she points out, adding that she is used to choc-a-bloc schedules. “Even down South, I have worked for 350-360 days in a year. This is the longest break I’ve ever had, and I am just waiting to spring back to my normal routine.”
Someone joked that ‘John’s life in quarantine and outside is practically the same’-John Abraham
8:26 AM
John Abraham is using the forced break to sit back and reflect, and is focusing on creating content
Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; May 9, 2020)
Bikes, action, fitness — these three words are enough to sum up actor John Abraham. In the past one-and-a-half months of Coronavirus lockdown, while fitness has been a constant as he works out at home, the action has stopped completely with no shoots. And bike rides? Well, hear it from the man himself.
“Someone joked with me ‘John’s life in quarantine and outside is practically the same’! (laughs) Barring my motorcycle rides, I have never been the person who goes out, so I am not finding this period very difficult. As someone who is not wholly dependent on social media — and I say this with a lot of pride today — neither looking at social media to influence my actions, what I need to do, or validate what I am doing, I feel a sense of liberation there,” says the 47-year-old.
On what all has kept him busy, Abraham shares that creating new content has been on his mind. “I’m sure we would all say ‘watching, streaming and chilling’, but I’ve been reading more than watching. I’m in touch with my team, we’re in the process of creating good content. We are seeing it from a different scope today. The language of filmmaking is also going to change partly, so here’s a new normal. I think things are changing,” he says.
Is he going to focus more on creating OTT content? He tells us the platform isn’t something he is thinking about, as of now. “I am just creating content, we will see what we need to do in terms of platforms. Right now, it’s a good time to sit back. There are things I’ve never done in my life, and that’s doing nothing. This is the first time and I make no bones about it, there’s no shame. I am sitting back and reflecting on life. It’s good, I think. There’s a lot being done while doing nothing — a lot of thinking,” he shares.
With all shoots stalled since March, Abraham’s films, including Attack and Mumbai Saga, too were affected. “We’d finished 50% of the shoot for the former. The people I am working with are from South Africa and England, and we’re now at the mercy of international flights, to resume. Mumbai Saga has got three-four days [of shooting] left. Satyameva Jayate 2 is to begin,” he signs off.
Leaving home felt like going to war-Rakul Preet Singh
8:34 AM
Rakul Preet Singh recalls her last day at work before the industry-wide shutdown, till March 31, came into force
Akash Bhatnagar (MUMBAI MIRROR; March 21, 2020)
Earlier this week, Rakul Preet Singh shared a group selfie from an ad film shoot. The actress and the people around her posed with face masks and hand sanitisers. “Please don’t step out unless absolutely necessary! Could not cancel today’s shoot but the entire team took precautions! Don’t be paranoid but wise. Think positive and fight Coronavirus with a smile,” she wrote.
Harking back to the day, Rakul says, “Leaving home felt like going to war. We made sure that there was a doctor on set and a limited crew. It was the toughest shoot, considering the paranoia (around the outbreak). No one was allowed inside my van except my entourage.” Meanwhile, work on two of her upcoming films, the John Abraham co-starrer Attack and a yet-untitled project with Arjun Kapoor has been put on hold.
On March 15, film bodies including the Indian Film and Television Directors’ Association, Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association and the Indian Film and TV Producers Council directed all film, TV and OTT productions to be halted till March 31 for safety reasons. As a consequence, Rakul informs, all her shooting dates have gone for a toss. “I was supposed to be shooting every single day during this time. All of that is now going to fall in April for both my films. On April 10, I was to start work on Thank God (with Ajay Devgn and Sidharth Malhotra). But now, I don’t know what’s going to happen. This is the longest break of my life,” she sighs.
Rakul, who made her Bollywood debut with Yaariyan in 2014, didn’t return to the Hindi big screen till Aiyaary four years later. “At the time of my Hindi debut, I was a naïve 20-year-old who didn’t know one had to be in Mumbai to find more work. I had started shooting for my Telugu debut by then, which became a hit. Before I knew it, I had signed two-three big films there and decided to stick around,” she explains.
She goes on to inform that she was supposed to feature in the M S Dhoni biopic, in the role that eventually went to Disha Patani due to scheduling conflicts. Neeraj Pandey’s Aiyaary, in which she featured alongside Sidharth and Manoj Bajpayee, gave her the impetus she needed to return to Hindi films. “During the four years away from Mumbai, I did 18 films down South. I understood that people didn’t know my body of work in Mumbai. I met everyone again and De De Pyaar De (Luv Ranjan’s production co-starring Ajay and Tabu) came my way. And I felt it was time to make the transition (back to Bollywood),” she says.
Ask her about the challenges of making it as an outsider and Rakul says, “When I decided to become an actor, I knew it wouldn’t be served on a platter to me but that’s the fun of it. Being an outsider, you might not get the first opportunity, but at the end of the day, it’s talent that survives. Alia Bhatt is one of the finest actors today, not because she is Mahesh Bhatt’s daughter. She has proven herself. Today, outsiders are welcomed so warmly, be it Ayushmann (Khurrana), Vicky (Kaushal), Anushka (Sharma), Taapsee (Pannu) or Rajkummar (Rao). I understand it will take time for me but you can either crib about it or you can work towards your goals. I choose the latter.”
Does she feel the pressure to stand out among the current generation of actors, like Ananya Panday, Janhvi Kapoor and Nushrat Bharucha? “I don’t get into these pressures. We all have our pros and cons and different personalities. There are bigger and better things to worry about,” Rakul signs off.
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