Showing posts with label Hungama 2. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Hungama 2. Show all posts
In Hungama 2, there was a lot that was narrated, but didn’t make it to the screen-Shilpa Shetty
8:07 AM
Playing a prominent role in Nikamma, Shilpa discusses staying relevant with reality shows and upcoming web series
Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; June 15, 2022)
Almost 14 years after Apne (2007), she returned to movies last year with Hungama 2. But like her fans, Shilpa Shetty Kundra considers the upcoming Nikamma her comeback vehicle. “It’s a comeback of sorts because I haven’t graced the big screen in 14 years. Doing a massy entertainer is a high point for me,” she says. Nikamma, also starring Abhimanyu Dassani and Shirley Setia, is an official remake of the Telugu film, MCA Middle Class Abbayi (2017).
There was much excitement around her last release, Hungama 2. However, the OTT film turned out to be a damp squib. “That wasn’t supposed to be my [comeback] film, but I couldn’t say no because it was offered to me by the makers [Ratan Jain] who had [launched] me in Hindi movies. Plus, I always wanted to work with Priyan sir [Priyadarshan]. For me, the only takeaway was Chura Ke Dil Mera. There was a lot that was narrated, but didn’t make it to the screen. I think people were let down when they saw me in such a minuscule role,” she says.
Where she went missing from movies in the past decade, the actor became a frequent face on television, judging reality shows. She is now set to foray into the OTT world with Indian Police Force. Point out that she manages to stay relevant at 47, and Shetty says, “There isn’t any formula to stay relevant. You have to [see] what’s working around you, and give it your own tadka. Whatever I am doing today is to impress my children. It’s hard to impress this generation. After watching Nikamma, my son called me his favourite actor. That was a big compliment for me.”
The actor went through a trying phase last year when husband Raj Kundra was arrested in a pornography case. Shetty, who faced the situation with dignity, reflects, “The courage came from my immovable faith and patience.”
The love and fame I continue to receive is all thanks to television-Shilpa Shetty
8:22 AM
Divya Kaushik (BOMBAY TIMES; February 13, 2022)
Shilpa Shetty Kundra, who can currently be seen on the show, India's Got Talent, believes that she owes the fame and popularity she has continued to receive over the years to reality shows. “I’ve been working for over 29 years now. In these 29 years, I haven’t done films for a very long time now, but the love, fame and popularity that I have still received from the audience is thanks to television. When you do films, the audience recognizes you for your work as a character, but the love that I receive from people now is for being me and the personality that people see on reality shows. It is thanks to television that people got to know the real me. This is the reason I have been associated with TV shows, and while I try to strike a balance between the different roles that I play — from being a mother to managing my own projects — I try to do one reality show too,” says Shilpa.
The actress talks to us about her return to movies after 12 years, why she feels OTT can never replace the big screen experience and all that she’s learnt from her reality show stints.
‘I BELIEVE THAT OTT CANNOT REPLACE THE CHARM OF FILMS’
Shilpa is keen to do more films this year — the big screen kind. “I believe that OTT cannot replace the charm of films. In the last few years, OTT has definitely given a lot of opportunities to actors and there has been an influx of content, but for me, doing films for the big screen will always remain special. I might start shooting another film this year, depending on what the pandemic situation will be,” she says.
The actress, who made a comeback to films after a hiatus of almost 12 years with Hungama 2 last year, is a tad disappointed that the film that was supposed to be her comeback film, Nikamma, is still awaiting its release date.
“I was going to make a comeback to films with a very different film, but that couldn’t happen and I couldn’t say no to Hungama 2 when it was offered to me, so everything changed. But I want to do more films this year, at least one film a year,” says Shilpa.
She adds that she decided to take a break from films as she wanted to focus on her own projects and also as a mom she needed to spend time with her children. “My son is nine now and is very busy with his school, while my daughter Samisha is two. So, I think I will be able to take up at least a film a year now,” says Shilpa.
‘LIKE EVERY SHOW AND FILM, REALITY SHOWS NEED DRAMA AND EMOTION TOO’
After being a judge on a number of dance reality shows, it is for the first time that Shilpa is a part of a show like India's Got Talent, that focuses on different talent and skills from across the country. The actress says that she agreed to do the show because her son Viaan is a big fan. “I thought he would like watching meon the show,” says the actress.
The actress adds that being on reality shows has been a learning experience for her. “I get to know so many stories of struggle, talent and how people beat all odds to achieve what they aim for in life. I come from a middle-class family too and I have also seen some hardships. I relate to so many stories that I come across,” says Shilpa.
To all those who might feel that the contestants’ struggle and background narrative are sometimes mere props to garner TRPs, the actress says, “These contestants are characters of these reality shows and like in films, one needs a background to support the characters’ stories, even these shows need those kind of stories and emotions. To all those who think this is drama, well, some drama is supposed to be part of shows.”
Disney+ Hotstar, with 4.75 crore subscribers, is the top streaming platform in India by a distance
8:15 AM
Box Office India Trade Network
Disney+ Hotstar is the top streaming platform in India in terms of paid subscribers and that too by a distance. The main reason for this is live IPL coverage. The surprise is Sony LIV which is third best but that is also due to live sporting events.
The difference in subscribers between a Disney+ Hotstar and a Netflix means the number of views when it comes to films in India has to be taken with a pinch of salt. It is being seen that films on Disney+ Hotstar gets far more views than other platforms and that is the case with a film like HUNGAMA 2 which in no way can be called popular but the views are higher than many other bigger films.
It is basically like you are getting a 5000 screen release on Disney+ Hotstar but 500 screens on Netflix if we translate into cinema. The difference being that in cinema you get it on merit and the demand of the film but in streaming its about which platform and not about the film.
LAXMII (2020) probably remains the biggest film in terms of a streaming premiere though the numbers of this film have been surpassed by a film or two but it has to be looked in terms of the numbers of subcribers when the film was released. LAXMII (2020) also is the biggest blockbuster on satellite of all the films that premiered on OTT.
Also looking at the box office results of SOORYAVANSHI and PUSHPA: THE RISE - PART 01, it can be now said with certainty that this would have been the only film to become a HIT which did not release in cinemas in the last two years. LAXMII again would have been driven by Maharashtra, Gujarat and the Central belts.
The status quo of all these platforms can change as the IPL rights are up for renewal this year and another player Jio is expected to come into the foray.
The top streaming platforms and apprx paid subscribers in india at the beginning of 2022 were as follows.
1. Disney+ Hotstar - 4.75 crore
2. Amazon Prime - 2 crore
3. Sony LIV - 1.2 crore
4. Zee5 - 75 lakh
5. Netflix - 55 lakh
I cannot wait to work with Varun Dhawan and Ranveer Singh-Pranitha Subhash
8:12 AM
Actor Pranitha Subhash looks forward to making a mark in the Hindi film industry
Titas Chowdhury (HINDUSTAN TIMES; September 15, 2021)
Pranitha Subhash marked her foray into Bollywood with Hungama 2 and then followed it up with Bhuj: The Pride Of India. While she’s happy to have turned a new leaf in her career, she is perturbed that her films didn’t get a theatrical release. “I was looking forward to promoting the films in Mumbai but Coronavirus proved to be a deterrent. That bothered me,” she remarks.
The actor, who was excited to watch herself on the big screen, believes that there lies a big difference between films and the web. She says, “They’ve a separate set of audiences. More than in Mumbai, people in the South revere the experience of watching a film on the big screen. I’m not sure if they have downloaded all the OTT platforms yet. And that’s something which was making me nervous.”
Subhash shares that Bollywood was always the goal as it would help her up the game and reach out to a wider audience. Ask her if she has any qualms about starting a career in Mumbai from the scratch and she says, “You have to start from somewhere. Having said that, I believe that the lines between the film industries within our country are getting blurred. People are now watching and enjoying films made in regional languages. It’s a good time to be a part of the movies.”
So, how does Subhash want to be known in the Hindi film industry? “I would want to be taken seriously,” the Bheema Theeradalli (2012) actor says, adding, “I want to be known to be as a versatile and uninhibited actor. In the South, I’ve only done commercial cinema and I want to continue do that in Bollywood as well. I cannot wait to work with Varun Dhawan and Ranveer Singh.”
(Crisp) Movie Review: HUNGAMA 2 by FENIL SETA
11:39 PM
Hungama is a classic comic film and is in the list of ‘all-time favourite films’ of many. But Hungama 2 shockingly is a poor show. The humour is hardly there though the story has all the ingredients of a laugh-a-minute riot. However, the script turns it into a dry and unexciting affiar. The various subplots don’t come together the way it happens organically in a Priyadarshan film. Also, though one doesn’t have to look at logic in such films, it still should be convincing to some extent. Here, anything happens anytime and it’s shocking how it got passed. Meezaan Jafri is strictly okay and his comic timing is a bit off. Pranitha Subhash is quite better and manages to impress with her performance. Shilpa Shetty looks ravishing and gives a first-rate performance. But her screen time is limited. Paresh Rawal also doesn’t get sufficient screen time. Ashutosh Rana in fact is like the second lead and is quite good. Tiku Talsania leaves a mark. Johny Lever is fine in the cameo while Manoj Joshi is average. Rajpal Yadav is the funniest part of the enterprise and its thanks to him that the film doesn’t emerge as an outright disaster. The child actors are nice but they mysteriously disappear after a ‘dhamakedaar’ entry. Akshaye Khanna looks dull. All in all, Hungama 2 is an epic disappointment.
My rating - ** out of 5!
Fenil's Bollywood Talk # 683
9:00 AM
A COMIC CAPER AND ROMCOM TO ENTERTAIN AUDIENCES THIS WEEKEND
While theatres are still shut, two films that were supposed to release on the big screen have now made their way on digital. These two films – Hungama 2 and 14 Phere – are now releasing tomorrow online.
Hungama 2 will be released on Disney+ Hotstar and like the first part, it is directed by Priyadarshan. But the story and characters are not the same as in the 2003 original. The sequel stars Meezaan Jafri, Pranitha Subhash, Shilpa Shetty and Paresh Rawal. The trailer has been alright but the film seems like a fun entertainer aimed at families. Also, Hungama is a much-loved film and continues to get good ratings even today. Hence, the sequel will also get viewership, regardless of the reviews.
The film has been in the news thanks to the remix of the song 'Chura Ke Dil Mera'. The original featured Shilpa Shetty in a sensuous avatar and the same happens in the remix as well. While some criticized the recreation, the discussion around the song kept the film in news.
This is also Shilpa Shetty’s first film in 14 years. All was going well and she was enjoying the promotions. However, the arrest of her husband, Raj Kundra, that too in a porn racket case led to a lot of ridicule for the actress. It is expected that hopefully, the negativity will not spill over to Hungama 2.
The other film of this week is 14 Phere. It’ll premiere on Zee5 and stars Vikrant Massey and Kriti Kharbanda. The film looks like a nice romantic comedy and the title is novel. Sadly, the buzz is negligible. Many moviegoers and netizens are not even aware that such a film is being released. The soundtrack has gone unnoticed. The film will need to be really good to get viewership and also sustain the competition from Hungama 2.
Interestingly, 14 Phere is a film that went on floors post lockdown, in November 2020. It was initially scheduled to release on July 9 in cinemas this year.
My father Jaaved Jaaferi never gives me pointers about acting-Meezaan Jafri
8:28 AM
Jaaved Jaaferi’s son, Meezaan, on consciously trying not to imitate his father in Hungama 2
Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; July 18, 2021)
After extensive training for Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s film, Malaal, Meezaan Jafri joins a new school of acting and learns spontaneity on the set of Priyadarshan’s Hungama 2. “I remember Priyadarshan advising me not to copy anybody and that is what I have done,” says the one-film-old actor. “It was a different world from Malaal — there were no workshops or homework — I was just thrown into the battlefield. Not much thinking goes on his sets and that is a good thing. [You learn] to perform on instinct.”
Matching his comic timing with co-star Paresh Rawal always made him “nervous”, but the actor says he “tried his best”. “Paresh ji will obviously kill it, so I wanted to be at par with him,” adds the actor of the Disney+ Hotstar outing.
While he often seeks father Jaaved Jaaferi’s advice, he explains that he never tried to emulate him on screen. “Priyadarshan’s films are situational comedy. I don’t think my father has done these kinds of films. If I get stuck somewhere, I always approach him, but he never gives me pointers about acting. He has always given me life lessons and that is of more value,” he says.
I was told Hungama 2 makers are planning to reprise Chura Ke Dil Mera. After that, I couldn’t say no-Shilpa Shetty
8:19 AM
Returning to acting after 14 years with 'Hungama 2', Shilpa Shetty Kundra says Hindi cinema’s landscape has changed to benefit the actors
Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; July 16, 2021)
When producer Ratan Jain approached Shilpa Shetty Kundra for 'Hungama 2', her first reaction was, “How can I be paired opposite Paresh ji [Rawal]? He has played my father in a movie!” Her initial shock soon gave way to excitement as the producer familiarised her with the premise of the comedy.
“The story revolves around a man who is insecure about his wife who is 15-20 years younger than him. When I heard the story, it made sense [to portray Rawal’s wife]. Then, I was told they were planning to reprise Chura Ke Dil Mera [her song from Main Khiladi Tu Anari]. After that, I couldn’t say no,” laughs Shetty.
While the Disney+ Hotstar film — also starring Meezaan and Pranitha Subhash — revolves around an older man romancing a younger woman, Hindi cinema hasn’t fully explored the theme of an older woman-younger man relationship. Game to bring such stories to life, the actor says, “Gone are the days when only conventional content worked. The audience is smart now with [the advent of] OTT and will be open to the concept. It has to be treated beautifully.”
Shetty, who enjoyed success in the late ’90s and early 2000s, believes she has better command over her craft today as she returns to movies 14 years after Apne (2007). She counts herself lucky to be back in the game when Hindi cinema is undergoing a radical change. “I have come into my own now. I was only 17 when I started out, and by the time I left, films were just about evolving. I got good parts in Dhadkan and Life In A Metro, but today, I am offered roles where I can do more than just being glam.”
Priyadarshan’s comedies have innocence; there is nothing vulgar about them-Paresh Rawal
8:18 AM
Reuniting with Priyadarshan for Hungama 2, Paresh Rawal says filmmaker’s brand of innocent humour sets him apart
Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; July 12, 2021)
Pick any Hindi film directed by Priyadarshan, and chances are Paresh Rawal plays a pivotal role in it. The duo has collaborated on over 10 films together, including Hera Pheri (2000) and Bhool Bhulaiyaa (2007). So, when the director developed Hungama 2, the second instalment in the franchise, Rawal was an obvious choice.
The senior actor says, “Priyadarshan’s comedies have innocence; there is nothing vulgar about them. Also, he has a keen sense of economics and will never overshoot [the budget]. He knows how much leeway to give to his actors. As a result of these factors, the experience of working with him becomes unmatchable.”
True to the filmmaker’s style of situational comedies, Hungama 2 revolves around the confusion that ensues when Rawal’s character believes that his wife — essayed by Shilpa Shetty Kundra — is having an affair. “If you have a wife looking like Shilpa Shetty, any husband would be insecure. What I like the most about her is that she is so passionate about her work.”
The senior actor adds that the film — also featuring Meezaan and Pranitha Subhash — is the perfect example of a well-written laugh riot, which does justice to every character. “One should not sacrifice a character for the sake of laughter. As an actor, if you go in believing that you’ll make everyone laugh, that’s not the right approach. The comedy has to be situational and spontaneous.”
Originally designed for a theatrical outing, the movie will drop on Disney+ Hotstar. While he has had his share of movie premieres online, Rawal has yet to try his hand at a web series. “I want to do a show that gives you an opportunity to develop your character, like Kay Kay Menon’s in Special Ops or Manoj Bajpayee’s in The Family Man.”
Shilpa Shetty remakes Chura Ke Dil Mera; sparks debate among fans
8:18 AM
The recreation of this iconic track from the 1994 film Main Khiladi Tu Anari has die hard fans questioning why is there even a need for such endeavours
Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; July 7, 2021)
Remaking old classics is a trend which refuses to die down. And the latest to join the list is Chura Ke Dil Mera, which featured in the 1994 Akshay Kumar-starrer Main Khiladi Tu Anari. Filmed on Kumar and Shilpa Shetty Kundra, the song has been a favourite for decades, and has now been recreated by the original composer, Anu Malik for Hungama 2.
Taking over the vocals are Benny Dayal and Malik’s daughter Anmol. Fans, however, are not pleased with it.
Ever since the song dropped on Tuesday, social media has been abuzz with people missing the original singers Kumar Sanu and Alka Yagnik.
“#ChuraKeDilMera is one of my fav 90s songs... STOP ruining 90s classics... nothing can bring the old charm back... (sic),” wrote a Twitter user. “They Couldn’t Match the 1% of the Original Song... don’t spoil the old songs please” wrote another.
Many liked Kundra’s avatar, but missed Kumar. Meezaan, actor Jaaved Jaffery’s son, has stepped in his shoes.
When we reached out to Sanu and Yagnik to know their take, the former tells us, “Mujhe naya wala sunke bauhaut achha laga. I didn’t know it was being recreated.” Yagnik, too, says she did not know about this new version coming out. “It sounds cute, very different from the original,” she adds.
People who have been in the music world for long are not too pleased with this trend. Lyricist Sameer, who has seen a lot of his songs such as Ankhiyon Se Goli Maare and Dilbar be recreated, says, “The question is not about recreation, it is about not destroying the originality. Try not to disturb the basic structure. If there is a song Lata Mangeshkar ji has sung, and you take a new singer (for recreation); what are you doing? You will ruin the song.”
Singer Abhijeet adds that he liked Anmol’s voice, but is not in favour of old songs being touched. “The original music director recreated it. I won’t say this is a good attempt, but gaali mile ya tareef, it is for the original composer. In this song, the male voice dominates, that has been changed. I didn’t like it. Logon ke dimaag mein original baitha hua hai,” he asserts.
We wanted to retain Chura Ke Dil Mera's original signature step-Brinda Parameshwar
8:13 AM
As Shilpa gives a spin to ’90s chartbuster Chura Ke Dil Mera for Hungama 2, choreographer on paying tribute to late Saroj Khan with reprised version
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; July 6, 2021)
In 1994, Shilpa Shetty Kundra, with her animal print outfits and graceful moves, immortalised Chura Ke Dil Mera on screen. Almost 26 years later, little has changed about Shetty’s grace as she revisits the chartbuster for Hungama 2. “She still looks 16. She hasn’t put on any weight,” laughs choreographer Brinda Parameshwar, who reunited with the actor for the reprised version.
The original song from Main Khiladi Tu Anari (1994), featuring Akshay Kumar and Shetty, was choreographed by the late Saroj Khan. Parameshwar says that her version for Priyadarshan’s upcoming comedy is a tribute to the master choreographer. “She was a guru to all of us. My master Raghu ji and Saroj ji used to be close friends. She has often visited me in Chennai, and I was a great fan of her work,” says the choreographer, pointing out that she left the iconic step untouched. “We wanted to retain the signature step from the original. That was a fantastic [move]. I can never replace her style.”
If Khan had brought the romantic number alive by highlighting the chemistry between the leads, and peppering it with her ingenuous dance moves, Parameshwar has reimagined it as a dance number. “In our version, we have added more dance elements and brought in background dancers. The song fits the situation beautifully, and Shilpa’s presence adds a nostalgic value. Her energy levels have remained unchanged. Dance is about expressions, and her expressions are spot-on. A choreographer feeds off the energy of her actors. While Shilpa has always been fantastic, it was Meezaan who surprised me. I am a fan of Jaaved Jaaferi [Meezaan’s father]. Meezaan practiced only for a day and cracked the steps.”
The number was shot at a Mumbai studio over two-and-a-half days.
I am disappointed as Hungama 2 is a kind of film that people will enjoy watching together-Priyadarshan
8:14 AM
With Hungama 2 originally designed for a theatrical outing, director Priyadarshan is disappointed about the Shilpa Shetty-starrer taking the digital route
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; May 30, 2021)
Earlier this week, producer Ratan Jain announced that Hungama 2, the sequel to Priyadarshan’s 2003 laugh riot of the same name, will have a digital premiere on Disney+ Hotstar. While the Shilpa Shetty Kundra, Paresh Rawal and Meezaan Jafri starrer was originally designed for the big screen, the theatre shutdown across most states in the country has led the makers to take the web route.
The decision is disappointing for Priyadarshan, who was set to return to Bollywood after his last Hindi release, Rangrezz (2013). Speaking to mid-day from Chennai, the National Award-winning filmmaker says, “I am naturally disappointed as it’s the kind of film that people will enjoy watching together. It is my first Bollywood movie after eight years, and I was looking forward to it releasing in theatres. It is not meant for people to watch alone at home. But you cannot blame anybody. How long can a producer wait for theatres to open? There are about 70 films ready to release, so where will they get the platform? I am confident about the product. It’s a comedy entertainer, and I have made some good films in the genre, including Malamaal Weekly [2006], Hulchul [2004], Hera Pheri [2000] and Khatta Meetha [2010].”
The film’s post-production has been stalled due to the ongoing lockdown. “While the shoot and edit are complete, sound mixing and a bit of dubbing is left. I have shut down my Chennai studio. Hopefully, we can complete the post-production after a month,” says the director, who has recreated Shetty’s hit number, Chura Ke Dil Mera, in the comedy.
My next with Akshay Kumar is a comic thriller-Priyadarshan
9:21 AM
Priyadarshan is waiting for the situation to improve to shoot the climax of Part 2 of Hungama and also decide on release date of his dream project
Himesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; December 11, 2020)
He makes a comeback in Bollywood with Hungama 2, eight years after his last directorial Rangrezz. “It’s my first sequel and like Hera Pheri, Hungama too is a strong brand,” he asserts. The upcoming comedy features Paresh Rawal, Shilpa Shetty, Meezaan Jaaferi and Pranitha Subhash and the director reveals that Paresh plays a husband who is always suspicious of his wife because of the age difference between them. “He thinks that every man is behind her, which leads to a lot of confusion and misunderstanding,” he explains.
Prod him on the new pairing of Meezaan and Pranitha and he reasons, “Meezaan comes from a family of great actors and can be easily moulded. When the actors look your character, half the problems are solved. Both of them are good students.”
Speculations are rife that he will helm Hera Pheri 3 with Akshay Kumar, Paresh and Suniel Shetty. He sets the record straight, “I am not involved with Hera Pheri 3, I have told the makers that I am not interested. A lot of people think I made Part 2 as well, but that too wasn’t my film,” he reminds.
Marakkar - The Lion Of Arabian Sea was set to release on March 26 but was pushed ahead following the nationwide lockdown. It features Mohanlal in the lead with Suniel in a pivotal role. The director points out that had the shutdown been announced five days after its release, the producer would have been on the road. “I am not worried about the delay. The film has tremendous hype and will bring in the audience whenever it releases,” he says confidently, adding that it has actors from across industries—Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam. “It’s my dream film and the biggest challenge was to recreate the 16th century. It’s made on a budget of Rs 100 crore, the highest in my career. Half of it is about a naval war and set in the sea. The lead character is the first Indian Naval Commander and I’m happy with the result.”
Priyan believes that apart from Hungama, Hulchul is another film that has the potential to be spun into a franchise, but is waiting for the response to Hungama 2 before taking a step forward. “I am yet to shoot the climax of Hungama as I need around 300 to 400 people. I am waiting for the Coronavirus situation to improve and after it is done, we will decide on the release,” he signs off.
Most stars in the South film industry are disciplined-Paresh Rawal
8:23 AM
Making his Tamil debut with Suriya-led Soorarai Pottru, Paresh Rawal discusses how the South industry is streamlined
Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; November 8, 2020)
At 65, Paresh Rawal is ready to chart a new inning—the actor is set to make his Tamil debut with Soorarai Pottru, which is based on the life of Air Deccan founder G R Gopinath and features Suriya in the lead. In his first brush with the South film industry, the veteran is evidently impressed with its efficiency.
"It is such a joy to work with Suriya. He is such a huge star with [a massive following] across the nation, but he never behaves like one. Most stars here are so disciplined and focused; they don't throw a tantrum on set or throw their weight around. In the '90s, people appreciated the working style of the South industry. Here, your shoot gets over on time, you get your payment on time, and so on. If the director has called for a 9 am shift, the entire team will be present, regardless of how big a star one is," he says.
Rawal, who had collaborated with then-newcomer Jyothika in Doli Saja Ke Rakhna (1998), is amused how fate has now united him with Suriya. "After so many years, here I am, working with her husband!"
The actor plays an antagonist in the Guneet Monga-backed offering that drops on Amazon Prime Video on November 12. If finding his rhythm in another industry was easy, learning the language was an uphill task. "The people are simple, but their language is difficult for me. The team was patient with me as I learnt all the lines by heart. They constantly helped me with the dialogues."
On the Bollywood front, Rawal recently wrapped up shooting for Hungama 2. Talking about filming in the post-COVID world, he says, "The Coronavirus is not [abating] anytime soon, and we can't be sitting at home. So, one has to be alert and maintain social distancing while working. I will head to Chandigarh soon to shoot another film."
I am not some Shah Rukh or Salman Khan who has the luxury of choosing films-Meezaan Jafri
8:13 AM
After an underwhelming debut in Malaal, Meezaan Jafri hopes to bounce back in the game with Priyadarshan's comedy, Hungama 2
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; November 7, 2020)
After being confined to his house for months on end due to the pandemic, Meezaan Jafri was ecstatic when director Priyadarshan informed him that the unit would resume Hungama 2 shoot soon. Last month, the actor headed to Manali with co-stars Shilpa Shetty, Paresh Rawal and Praneetha Suresh to complete the final schedule of the comedy. If shooting for his second film was a cakewalk, he says the credit lies with Shetty and the director. "I was ecstatic to be finally able to get out of my house. I'd never been to Manali before. The weather was beautiful. I felt people are now appreciating the little joys in our life. Every shot was making us jubilant. The film has shaped up insane. It's visually striking. I hope people watch this in theatres."
A large part of his energy on set came from Shetty, his co-star. "There is such a positive vibe about her. She lightens up the set. One should learn how to have a ball of a time on their own. Even though she is such a senior actor, she doesn't let you feel that barrier. Sometimes experienced people evoke that hesitation but on this set I opened up like never before. Priyan sir (Director) treats me like I am his own son and guides me for the future. He teaches me these little nuances that improve my craft. He is the kind of filmmaker who will have your back and bring out the best in you."
With his first film Malaal (2019) failing to catapult him into overnight stardom, Meezaan is choosing his projects wisely, with greater gumption. "Malaal was presented by Sanjay Leela Bhansali; my second film is with Priyadarshan. I will here on, have to maintain a certain standard of choices. I have to take it a notch higher hereon. There are some great offers in the pipeline. I am not some Shah Rukh or Salman Khan who has the luxury of choosing films. I am waiting for good projects and making the best of what's coming my way. I don't know what the audience expects of me so I want to do all of it and showcase my range. Filmmaking is my passion and I don't want to limit myself within set genres."
He hints that the announcement of an actioner is in the vicinity. Buzz also suggests that the actor has been roped in to headline Sooraj Barjatya's son Avnish's directorial debut, a destination wedding project. Meezaan chooses to be tight-lipped about it, only offering, "I will let producers make their announcements. Things will take their course in due time. COVID has set people back on timelines."
Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh see a rise in film shoots amid the pandemic
8:29 AM
Niharika Lal (BOMBAY TIMES; October 16, 2020)
With the nation gradually opening up amid the Coronavirus pandemic, several filmmakers are eyeing hill stations for shooting. It seems that the hills have become a safe haven for B-Towners. Among the first few to resume the shoot, Shahid Kapoor has already wrapped up Jersey’s Dehradun schedule. Priyadarshan’s Hungama 2, starring Shilpa Shetty, Paresh Rawal, Meezaan Jaffery and Pranitha Subhash, is being shot in Manali. While Himachal Pradesh is now granting film shoot permits, Uttarakhand, which allowed film shoots in June, has seen higher numbers.
‘GIVEN PERMISSIONS FOR OVER 50 SHOOTINGS IN UTTARAKHAND’
Officials from the Uttarakhand Film Development Council say they have seen a confident return of filming in Uttarakhand in the last couple of months. K S Chauhan, Nodal officer, Film Facilitation Office, Uttarakhand, says, “From the end of June till now, we have given permissions for over 50 shootings, which includes films, web series, video songs and so on. Almost every day, I get three to four queries from big production houses for permission. They want to know if it’s safe to film in Uttarakhand or not, and we are assuring them that they can visit and shoot with all safety measures in place.”
Last month Sanjay Mishra shot for a film at Garhi Cantt and Shakti Kapoor shot for The Dark Jungle in Mussoorie, Maldevta and Dehradun. Sources say as schools in Dehradun are closed, production houses are even getting to shoot there, something which didn’t happen often earlier. Rati Shankar, a line producer, says, “From web series to films, everyone is coming to the hills for shooting — be it Himachal or Uttarakhand. Due to these film shoots, technical staff members who had left during the lockdown have also come back and joined their crews. Currently, we are handling two projects — one is a web series and the other project is a movie, which needs to be shot higher in the mountains. We are finalising a location for it.”
PRIVATE PROPERTIES FOR ACTORS, ENTIRE HOTELS BOOKED FOR CREW
In the pre-COVID days, actors used to stay at hotels, but now private properties are being booked to minimise exposure. Mayank Tiwari, a line producer says, “For instance, Shahid Kapoor, who is currently shooting for Jersey in Dehradun, is staying at a private resort. Similarly, there are hotels for crew members, where no outsiders are allowed and it is fully booked for the crew.” Nitin Pundir, another line producer, adds, “We are renting resorts for 25-26 days. This is the most prominent change that we have noticed during the current shoots as stars are trying to avoid exposure as much as possible.”
SANITISATION SERVICE PROVIDERS FROM DELHI ARE BEING HIRED
Before visiting hills, the entire cast and crew is being tested for COVID-19, and then weekly tests are organised to ensure that the whole crew is safe. Even though there’s no mandatory rule now to carry a COVID-19 negative certificate, they are still doing tests before visiting. For these film shoots, they are also hiring sanitisation service providers from Delhi.
SAFETY MEASURES BEING TAKEN
- COVID-19 test before visiting the hills
- Stars booking private resorts
- Entire hotels are booked for crew, no outsiders are allowed
- Sanitisation services are hired from Delhi
Image: Meezaan Jafri, Paresh Rawal, Shilpa Shetty take off to Manali to resume Hungama 2 shoot
7:54 AM
The Hungama sequel to resume filming this week
Himesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; October 5, 2020)
On Sunday, Meezaan air-dashed to Manali to resume shooting for the Hungama sequel being directed by Priyadarshan. The team will be shooting in the hills for 12 days. Scenes include the madcap climax featuring the entire cast comprising Shilpa Shetty, Paresh Rawal, Rajpal Yadav, Manoj Joshi, Ashutosh Rana and Pranitha Subhash. “It’s going to be a lot of fun,” the asserts actor, adding, “I’ve never been to Manali before. Besides the climax, we’ll also be shooting two songs at a remote location.”
Meezaan goes on to inform that after the Himachal schedule, the team will reunite for a two-day shoot in Mumbai, before calling it a wrap. With cinema halls slowly opening up across India, he is hopeful of a theatrical release. “Comedy is a universal and evergreen genre, meant to be enjoyed collectively. Our film is meant to be consumed on the big screen,” he shares.
The film also features Johnny Lever in a pivotal role, and the actor has already wrapped up shooting for his part during the Ooty schedule. Ask Meezaan about how it feels to be surrounded by so many actors known for their comic timing, and he confesses it’s intimidating and he is in awe of them. “I was scared on the first day of the shoot as the scene was with Paresh sir, Manoj sir and Ashutosh sir, but they were all really supportive.”
The actor considers himself fortunate to get back to a film set in the midst of a pandemic and promises to be cautious during the shoot. “The entire cast and crew have already been tested twice, and before we took off for Manali, another Covid test was taken. We took off on a charter flight and it is as if the whole team is being quarantined together,” he laughs, adding that while he is wary of comparisons with the 2003 original fronted by Akshaye Khanna and Paresh Rawal, he is confident that the sequel won’t disappoint.
“The story has nothing to do with the first film, but the majority of the cast is the same. Priyan sir has made over 100 movies and I know even this one is going to be amazing. So I’m not worried at all,” he signs off.
Shilpa Shetty consistently strives to be better-Priyadarshan
8:34 AM
Set to take the last leg of Hungama 2 on floors in October, Priyadarshan talks of Shilpa Shetty's role in the film
Uma Ramasubramanian (MID-DAY; September 20, 2020)
[Shooting of the] last leg of the Shilpa Shetty Kundra-starrer will take place in Manali. "There is a 15-day leg left to wrap up the film. We plan to start from October 1. We need to follow the rules and regulations to shoot, because it's tough to gauge where one can contract the virus from," Priyadarshan tells mid-day, adding that he has reduced his staff to 30 per cent.
"It is not difficult for me to shoot with limited people because I am used to making films in the Malayalam [industry] with minimal crew. Whenever I shoot in Bollywood, I get irritated with the crowd moving around. It's tough to maintain distance from the camera; half of the staff isn't doing anything anyway. So, I am happy to be working with a small unit."
Shetty, says Priyadarshan, plays a pivotal role in the film; her character is the cause of several misunderstandings, which are instrumental in delivering laughs.
"I am surprised to see her enthusiasm. Despite proving herself over the years, she strives to do better. That is a great quality," says Priyadarshan, his hopes pinned on the fact that the film can see a theatrical release.
Bombay High Court quashes ban on film & TV shoots for crew aged 65-plus
8:19 AM
‘Condition Is Discriminatory, Arbitrary, Violates Right to Dignity’
Rosy Sequeira (THE TIMES OF INDIA; August 8, 2020)
Mumbai: In a relief for film and television cast and crew aged over 65 years, the Bombay High Court on Friday struck down a condition in two state government circulars that barred them from shoots. The court observed the condition is discriminatory, arbitrary and violates their right to live with dignity.“Having permitted the film industry to operate and open, subject to conditions, the introduction of the impugned condition that places absolute restriction on persons above the age of 65 years from carrying out their occupation or trade, whilst not similarly restricting persons of the same age who are engaged in other trades or occupations permitted to operate and open, would amount to an unreasonable restriction and hence a violation of their right under Article 19 (1) (g) (right to practice any profession) of the Constitution,” said a bench of Justice Shahrukh Kathawalla and Justice Riyaz Chagla.
The judges quashed and set aside the condition in the May 31 and June 23 government resolutions (GR) to restart the media entertainment industry as part of ‘Mission Begin Again’. It stated that “any cast/crew member above the age of 65 years will not be allowed at the site”.
The verdict was delivered on petitions by artiste Pramod Pandey and Indian Motion Pictures Producers Association, both represented by advocate Ashok Saraogi.
The judges held there is discrimination in the disparate treatment of persons who are aged 65 years or above in the film and TV industry and in the other permitted sectors and activities.
They further said the condition failed to consider relevant material—relaxation in the ministry of home affairs (MHA)’s May 30 order and the state government’s May 31 order. The state’s reply had said the condition is based on these two orders that require persons aged 65 years and above to stay home, except for essential or medical purposes.
The judges agreed with amicus curiae senior advocate Sharan Jagtiani that unlike the mandatory nature of guidelines issued in the previous lockdown phases, MHA’s May 30 order was advisory.
While the MHA order had contained relaxations, there was no corresponding easing with regard to film and television in the state’s May 31 GR. This aspect was not considered by the state, especially in addressing clarifications in the June 23 GR. Rather, in its July 25 reply to the court, it stated if the Centre relaxes this condition, it will issue a similar relaxation.
The judges noted having concluded the condition is discriminatory and arbitrary, they are satisfied that absolute prohibition violates the petitioners’ right to live with dignity under Article 21 (right to life).
They mentioned government pleader Poornima Kantharia’s submission that no coercive will be taken against those above 65 years who choose to remain present on sets.
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Court sets aside conditions in two government resolutions that bar cast and crew above 65 from shoots
Sharmeen Hakim (MUMBAI MIRROR; August 8, 2020)
Observing that there is “discrimination” in the treatment of people above 65 years in film and TV industry, the Bombay High Court has set aside conditions in two government resolutions that bar cast and crew above 65 from participating in shoots.
The ruling will come as a boost to senior citizens in the entertainment industry, who were barred from earning a livelihood due to the state government’s restrictions, issued on May 31 and June 23. The government orders were challenged by a 70-year-old actor named Pramod Pandey.
A division bench comprising justices Sharukh Kathawalla and Riyaz Chagla held that the decisions to bar those above 65 from the entertainment industry, while allowing them to take part in other day-to-day activities—taking public buses, going to offices, etc—were against Article 14 of the Constitution, especially since they failed to provide a solid reason for the discrimination.
The state claimed that its guidelines were based on central government directives.
However, the bench relied on the submissions of the amicus curiae, senior advocate Sharan Jagtiani, to say that central and state government orders dated May 30 and 31 relaxed their general conditions, making restrictions on those above 65 years advisory in nature.
“In our view, there is discrimination in the disparate treatment of persons who are 65 years of age or above in the film or television industry and in the other permitted sectors and activities. The same is not based on any intelligible differentia and no explanation to this effect is to be found in the reply of the state government. The impugned condition, therefore, cannot be sustained in view of the well-settled principles enunciated under Article 14 of the Constitution of India,” the bench said.
The bench further said that for a restriction to be reasonable under Article 19 of the Constitution, material would be required to support the distinction.
“Having come to the conclusion that the impugned condition cannot be sustained on account of it being discriminatory and arbitrary, we are satisfied that the absolute prohibition as regards persons above the age of 65 years who earn their livelihood from the film industry (which is allowed to operate), is a measure that violates the petitioner’s right to live with dignity under Article 21 (right to life) of the Constitution. And the restriction imposed by the impugned condition in relation to a specific sector or industry that is now allowed to operate, cannot constitute a valid procedure established by law,” the bench held.
The court, however, said that general advisories recommending all those people above 65 years not to venture out for their own good would apply to cast and crew of the film industry as well.
Actor Pandey, represented by advocate Ashok Saraogi, had said that the state government’s decision had brought people like him to the brink of starvation.
The government, represented by pleader Poornima Kantharia, however, said that the guidelines were issued for the benefit of those above 65.
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With their productions starring veterans, filmmakers cheer as HC revokes state government guideline banning artistes over 65 on set
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; August 8, 2020)
The state government's regulation that barred actors and technicians over 65 years of age from shooting, as a precautionary measure amid the Coronavirus pandemic, had come under heavy fire from some stalwarts of the industry. On Friday, the Bombay High Court dismissed the regulation after a petition was filed by the Indian Motion Pictures Producers' Association (IMPPA) and senior Bollywood actor Pramod Pandey.
The move comes as a relief to several filmmakers, including Nikkhil Advani, who has envisioned his next, Mughal, with Shabana Azmi as one of the leads. "We are thrilled as several of our productions were being spearheaded by some superlative senior talent. Kanwaljit Singh [69] features in my production that is being directed by Kaashvie Nair. Fortunately, we can now have him on set when the shoot begins by the month-end," says Advani.
Priyadarshan, whose in-the-works Hungama 2 features senior talent, observes that the regulation would have hindered the industry that has veterans Amitabh Bachchan, Naseeruddin Shah and Azmi, among others, at the top of their game. "If these stars couldn't work till the situation improved, it would have resulted in huge losses for the producers," he says.
Hungama 2 director Priyadarshan compelled to resume shoot by September
8:39 AM
Hungama 2 director Priyadarshan compelled to resume shoot by September as child actors are growing up, threatening film's continuity
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; July 22, 2020)
Unlike other filmmakers who are tackling the seemingly Herculean task of seeking a fresh set of dates from stars and reworking their films' schedules, director Priyadarshan finds himself in a unique dilemma. Besides Shilpa Shetty Kundra, Paresh Rawal, Meezaan Jafri and Pranitha Subhash, the cast of Hungama 2 includes five child actors who are pivotal to the narrative. In the four months since the shoot was halted due to the Coronavirus lockdown, four child artistes — aged between eight and 11 — have been growing steadily in height. Worried that their growth may pose a continuity problem, the filmmaker has decided to resume work on the comedy by September 15."At this age, children grow up rapidly; there are changes in facial structure and height. While the physical changes that have happened in the past four months will not make a huge difference on screen, it will be difficult [to retain continuity] if we have to wait for some more months. Fortunately, only a song has to be shot with them," says Priyadarshan. The director, who returns to Bollywood after seven years with the comic caper, will be heading to Kullu and Manali with the cast and crew for the final 15-day schedule. Following precautionary measures, the unit will self-quarantine before commencing the shoot.
The four children aside, an 18-month baby is also part of the sequel to the 2003 hit, Hungama. Producer Ratan Jain informs, "Thankfully, we had completed filming the baby's portions in Ooty in March. The four children will be required only for four days on the set."
The producer adds that the Himachal Pradesh government has assured him that shoots can be conducted in the hill stations, in adherence with the state's safety guidelines. "The songs and sequences require us to film on the streets of Kullu and Manali. Considering an outdoor schedule is not possible during the monsoon, we are likely to resume work from September 15," adds Jain.
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