Showing posts with label Purani Jeans. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Purani Jeans. Show all posts
Entering the world of OTT was a last resort to prove myself-Tanuj Virwani
8:36 AM
Kanksha Vasavada (BOMBAY TIMES; July 19, 2023)
On how he deals with pressure of being a star kid
There has always been pressure to live up to the name and legacy created by my mother, Rati Agnihotri, especially when I started my career. I have often been referred to as a 'Nepo Kid,' which I have never liked because my journey has been very different. My mother was not in the industry for a long time before I entered films, so it would be unfair to say that I had easy access to opportunities. However, I am glad that things are changing now. I am being recognised and cast based on my previous projects, not solely because I am my mother's son
On his mother being his biggest critic
My mother (Rati Agnihotri) is my biggest critic. She watches all my shows and films, and there have been instances where my character is loved by the audience, but my mother would be unhappy. She points out the tiniest elements that I might need to improve. And if she loves my performance, she appreciates it wholeheartedly. Actor-to-actor communication is very helpful, especially when she has so much experience that comes in handy for me
On his interest in writing and direction
I never envisioned myself becoming an actor. I was overweight and had a severe stammer, which led me to believe that I could excel in behind-the-scenes roles. So, I began working as an assistant director in movies and also wrote and directed short films. Even now, I hold onto the hope that someday I can unleash my untapped potential in storytelling and direction
On his shift from films to OTT
Entering the world of OTT was not a conscious decision for me; rather, it was somewhat of a last resort to prove myself. Despite having done three films—Luv U Soniyo (2013), Purani Jeans (2014), and One Night Stand (2016)—I was still not getting offered interesting roles. Then, unexpectedly, OTT emerged as a viable option. Back in 2016-17, this medium was not as significant as it is now. However, I consider myself fortunate to have secured projects like Inside Edge, Code M, and Cartel in the initial years, which helped me maintain relevance within the OTT realm. Presently, I aspire to take another leap and reintroduce myself to the film industry, aiming for a successful career in both domains. Several projects are in the pipeline, and I hope to conclude this year on a high note
On his love for experimenting with roles
Each project has its own process, sometimes you play with your physique or your voice depending on the character. I focus a lot on how my character should look, because I believe if the look is correct half of your battle is won. Experimenting with your character is most important for any actor, otherwise you can keep on doing the same kind of role and that’s not what I like to do. For instance, as Vayu in Inside Edge I have paced up my speech since the character is like that, and in Cartel as Major Bhau, I have brought the thehraav that my character needs. Moreover, it is important to enjoy the process, and if you fail during experimenting it’s fine, not every dart sticks to the board, at least 1 out of 10 will
When you're working on a film, you know it will have a theatrical release, appealing to the masses and potentially eliciting varied responses. However, in the case of OTT, each streaming platform caters to a distinct audience base. This understanding helps in choosing the right projects and bringing your character to life in a way that doesn't disappoint the viewers.
I believe in staying true to the roles I select because it's easy for the audience to detect fake acting. I learned early in my career the saying, ‘You start acting when you stop acting,’ and this realization came to me when I had the opportunity to work with actors like Kay Kay Menon and Vijay Raaz. Being as authentic as possible on screen is what the audience loves.
I have had one-night stands while in college-Tanuj Virwani
7:46 AM
Renuka Vyavahare (BOMBAY TIMES; April 6, 2016)
It might be easy to presume
that acting is just a hobby for Tanuj Virwani. After all, the
29-year-old, who is the son of actress Rati Agnihotri, hails from an
affluent background. But when you meet him, his earnest attitude and
desire to succeed dispel these notions. He displays maturity as he
speaks of his past failures and his parents' turbulent relationship. In a
heart-to-heart chat with BT, he talks about playing peacemaker between
the two and why his upcoming film One Night Stand is crucial for his
career.
How difficult was it to cope with the struggles of being an actor, especially since you come from a well-to-do background?
I am a single child who has always been pampered by his parents. I have the advantage of not rushing into a decision and signing a film. But that's where it ends. The struggle is still there. I sat at home for eight months after my second film, Purani Jeans, didn't do well. I gave auditions but nothing was working out. I felt life was cruel but I had to let the dust settle. It was extremely frustrating as I am career oriented and have the hunger to do well. My mom told me that I should never sign a film for the wrong reason, no matter how long I have to wait. She said, 'You can't disown a film, so be proud of what you do'.
It's been a year since the news of your parents' alleged separation surfaced.
They haven't separated. Mom was going to file for a divorce but she didn't. My parents took some time off from their marriage to work out their differences and now, they are very much together.
Your mother had accused your father of domestic violence.
I don't want to get into details because it's a 'he said, she said' situation. As a son, I cannot say what they should or shouldn't have done. At that point, I had to be a mediator and a pillar of strength for both of them. Having said that, I cannot take credit for sorting out their differences as they are twice my age. Things are a lot better now. In fact, we went to Lonavala a few months ago to celebrate their anniversary.
Did that phase make you grow overnight?
When the news surfaced, I was away for a shoot. It was a difficult time and it affected me deeply. As a child, you are shielded by your parents from the harsh realities of life. So, when they are facing any issues, we have to take charge. It's tough because they become more rigid and childish as they grow old. I think in the past one year, I have grown a lot as an individual.
Has it changed your perception towards marriage?
All of us have to chart our individual paths in our lives. I would like to believe that whatever I have seen doesn't have a negative impact on my life. I have to stay positive.
Your upcoming film, One Night Stand, stars Sunny Leone. Do you think her presence ensures visibility to the project?
Yes, it's a big plus. You need a saleable star to draw the audience to watch the film. I make no bones about the fact that I am not a star, so if I have to piggyback on someone else's success to get noticed in a film, I don't have a problem.
The topic is morally unacceptable to many. Were you apprehensive about it?
Unless you are rubbing someone the wrong way, you are not doing your job right. You have to have a reaction to something, whether it's positive or negative. As far as the name of the film is concerned, the makers have made a smart decision. When you have a title like One Night Stand and a film that stars Sunny Leone, it will grab eyeballs. The crux of the film is what happens post a one-night stand and the damage it does to individuals and families.
Have you had one-night stands?
I have had one-night stands while in college. Personally, I have nothing against them but in the longer run, it's not the way ahead, especially if you are in a relationship or married. Priorities change. I think all of us go through this phase.
So you don't consider it to be a taboo?
Absolutely not. If it works for both parties who are we to judge.
How was it working with Sunny?
I used to call her Funny Leone on set because she has a deadpan sense of humour, which many people don't get. I found it hilarious and refreshing. We would chat and crack jokes.
Did you have a certain image of her in mind before you met her?
I was a little intimidated by her as she is a star. But she was extremely caring. I am a foodie but had to diet as I had to go shirtless for a few scenes in this film. She suggested that I should at least eat some fish.
Were you nervous during the love-making scenes?
I was a bundle of nerves. People would ask me if it was fun and I would say there are 50 people on set and a DOP is giving you instructions. It's mechanical but it has to look sensual. Sunny made me feel comfortable during the scenes. If people like me in this film, the credit should go to her and our director Jasmine Moses D'Souza.
How difficult was it to cope with the struggles of being an actor, especially since you come from a well-to-do background?
I am a single child who has always been pampered by his parents. I have the advantage of not rushing into a decision and signing a film. But that's where it ends. The struggle is still there. I sat at home for eight months after my second film, Purani Jeans, didn't do well. I gave auditions but nothing was working out. I felt life was cruel but I had to let the dust settle. It was extremely frustrating as I am career oriented and have the hunger to do well. My mom told me that I should never sign a film for the wrong reason, no matter how long I have to wait. She said, 'You can't disown a film, so be proud of what you do'.
It's been a year since the news of your parents' alleged separation surfaced.
They haven't separated. Mom was going to file for a divorce but she didn't. My parents took some time off from their marriage to work out their differences and now, they are very much together.
Your mother had accused your father of domestic violence.
I don't want to get into details because it's a 'he said, she said' situation. As a son, I cannot say what they should or shouldn't have done. At that point, I had to be a mediator and a pillar of strength for both of them. Having said that, I cannot take credit for sorting out their differences as they are twice my age. Things are a lot better now. In fact, we went to Lonavala a few months ago to celebrate their anniversary.
Did that phase make you grow overnight?
When the news surfaced, I was away for a shoot. It was a difficult time and it affected me deeply. As a child, you are shielded by your parents from the harsh realities of life. So, when they are facing any issues, we have to take charge. It's tough because they become more rigid and childish as they grow old. I think in the past one year, I have grown a lot as an individual.
Has it changed your perception towards marriage?
All of us have to chart our individual paths in our lives. I would like to believe that whatever I have seen doesn't have a negative impact on my life. I have to stay positive.
Your upcoming film, One Night Stand, stars Sunny Leone. Do you think her presence ensures visibility to the project?
Yes, it's a big plus. You need a saleable star to draw the audience to watch the film. I make no bones about the fact that I am not a star, so if I have to piggyback on someone else's success to get noticed in a film, I don't have a problem.
The topic is morally unacceptable to many. Were you apprehensive about it?
Unless you are rubbing someone the wrong way, you are not doing your job right. You have to have a reaction to something, whether it's positive or negative. As far as the name of the film is concerned, the makers have made a smart decision. When you have a title like One Night Stand and a film that stars Sunny Leone, it will grab eyeballs. The crux of the film is what happens post a one-night stand and the damage it does to individuals and families.
Have you had one-night stands?
I have had one-night stands while in college. Personally, I have nothing against them but in the longer run, it's not the way ahead, especially if you are in a relationship or married. Priorities change. I think all of us go through this phase.
So you don't consider it to be a taboo?
Absolutely not. If it works for both parties who are we to judge.
How was it working with Sunny?
I used to call her Funny Leone on set because she has a deadpan sense of humour, which many people don't get. I found it hilarious and refreshing. We would chat and crack jokes.
Did you have a certain image of her in mind before you met her?
I was a little intimidated by her as she is a star. But she was extremely caring. I am a foodie but had to diet as I had to go shirtless for a few scenes in this film. She suggested that I should at least eat some fish.
Were you nervous during the love-making scenes?
I was a bundle of nerves. People would ask me if it was fun and I would say there are 50 people on set and a DOP is giving you instructions. It's mechanical but it has to look sensual. Sunny made me feel comfortable during the scenes. If people like me in this film, the credit should go to her and our director Jasmine Moses D'Souza.
I’m happy if I get to sing five songs a month-KK
10:09 AM
In an industry where competition is growing by the day and his
contemporaries are getting to sing lesser number of songs, singer KK
speaks to Deepali Dhingra about staying free of insecurities and fears
Deepali Dhingra (MID-DAY; May 25, 2014)
When KK was in school, one of his teachers advised to send his son to a music tutor to learn the craft as he had a good voice. “I went for exactly two days and gave it up,” laughs the singer, who
has crooned some of the most melodious numbers in Bollywood, including
Yaaron from Rockford, Koi Kahe from Dil Chahta Hai, Tu Aashiqui Hai from
Jhankaar Beats, Aashayein from Iqbal and Khuda Jaane from Bachna Ae
Haseeno. Pal, that beautiful number, which became a love anthem for
many, was also delivered by this talented singer in 1999.
When we catch up with the musician at his Yari Road studio, it’s almost like meeting an old friend — he knows how to put you at ease. Guess the whole ‘media- shy’ image is a bit of a misnomer, although the Delhi-born singer does admit that he prefers to go unnoticed in crowds. “I’m not reclusive, but I feel that there should be something substantial for me to talk about,” he adds.
For somebody who admits to never being a prolific singer, KK says that he doesn’t know how he’s managed to survive for so long in the music industry. “People say one should be visible, but I haven’t done anything else besides singing. I’m happy if I get to sing five songs a month,” he says. He is grateful that music composers understood this side of his personality and cast him for their songs.
The year 2014 has been good for him, with songs such as Tune Maari Entriyaan from Gunday and Dil Aajkal from Purani Jeans getting a lot of attention from cine-goers. “Then there was a lovely song that didn’t get noticed from Parathe Wali Gali called Tere Bin Ho Na Sakega Guzara and Meri Ma from Yaaryian,” he adds to the list.
Unlike some of his contemporaries who sound bitter about the current musical scenario, KK has a different take. “As an artiste, I have only gained over the years, so I have only good things to talk about. Why would I want to say anything bad about new singers? One should appreciate what some of the new singers are doing and learn from them,” he adds. His focus has always been his music. “When I enter a recording studio, it’s like I have blinkers on. I keep my slate clean — I don’t think about what anyone else is doing,” he says.
Over the years, he admits to changing his approach towards his career, in some ways. He’s recently made his presence felt on Twitter, and is enjoying the feedback that he’s getting from his fans. “I think I kept KK, the singer, behind KK, the man for too long. I have started opening up now,” he says. There’s an added sense of rejuvenation, as the talented artiste, who has two albums to his credit, believes this is the right time for him to create some independent music again. “It might be just a single, but I feel like delving into my abilities as a musician,” says KK. Needless to say, his fans will be waiting to see what he comes up with.
Deepali Dhingra (MID-DAY; May 25, 2014)
When KK was in school, one of his teachers advised to send his son to a music tutor to learn the craft as he had a good voice. “I went for exactly two days and gave it up,” laughs the singer, who
has crooned some of the most melodious numbers in Bollywood, including
Yaaron from Rockford, Koi Kahe from Dil Chahta Hai, Tu Aashiqui Hai from
Jhankaar Beats, Aashayein from Iqbal and Khuda Jaane from Bachna Ae
Haseeno. Pal, that beautiful number, which became a love anthem for
many, was also delivered by this talented singer in 1999.When we catch up with the musician at his Yari Road studio, it’s almost like meeting an old friend — he knows how to put you at ease. Guess the whole ‘media- shy’ image is a bit of a misnomer, although the Delhi-born singer does admit that he prefers to go unnoticed in crowds. “I’m not reclusive, but I feel that there should be something substantial for me to talk about,” he adds.
For somebody who admits to never being a prolific singer, KK says that he doesn’t know how he’s managed to survive for so long in the music industry. “People say one should be visible, but I haven’t done anything else besides singing. I’m happy if I get to sing five songs a month,” he says. He is grateful that music composers understood this side of his personality and cast him for their songs.
The year 2014 has been good for him, with songs such as Tune Maari Entriyaan from Gunday and Dil Aajkal from Purani Jeans getting a lot of attention from cine-goers. “Then there was a lovely song that didn’t get noticed from Parathe Wali Gali called Tere Bin Ho Na Sakega Guzara and Meri Ma from Yaaryian,” he adds to the list.
Unlike some of his contemporaries who sound bitter about the current musical scenario, KK has a different take. “As an artiste, I have only gained over the years, so I have only good things to talk about. Why would I want to say anything bad about new singers? One should appreciate what some of the new singers are doing and learn from them,” he adds. His focus has always been his music. “When I enter a recording studio, it’s like I have blinkers on. I keep my slate clean — I don’t think about what anyone else is doing,” he says.
Over the years, he admits to changing his approach towards his career, in some ways. He’s recently made his presence felt on Twitter, and is enjoying the feedback that he’s getting from his fans. “I think I kept KK, the singer, behind KK, the man for too long. I have started opening up now,” he says. There’s an added sense of rejuvenation, as the talented artiste, who has two albums to his credit, believes this is the right time for him to create some independent music again. “It might be just a single, but I feel like delving into my abilities as a musician,” says KK. Needless to say, his fans will be waiting to see what he comes up with.
New releases disastrous; 2 States cross 90 crore
11:41 AM
Box Office India Trade Network
The new releases of the week - ANGRY YOUNG MAN, KAHIN HAI MERA PYAR, KYA DILLI KYA LAHORE and PURANI JEANS - had very poor results with none of the films even getting close to 1 crore nett for the weekend. KYA DILLI KYA LAHORE showed an upturn at some premium multiplexes but nowhere near enough to change its fate.
2 STATES remained the top Hindi film as it collected around 6.75 crore nett to take its total to around 90 crore nett in 17 days. The film has crossed 30 crore nett in Mumbai and 16 crore nett in Delhi/UP.
The business of 2 STATES in its third weekend was the second best of the year after QUEEN which had grossed around 7.50 crore nett.
Fenil's Bollywood Talk # 306
8:18 AM
SPIDER-MAN TO GIVE TOUGH TIME TO NEW RELEASES!
One of the biggest Hollywood films of 2014, The Amazing Spider-Man 2, is all set to release tomorrow in India extensively. The superhero is immensely popular and the first part that released in 2012 made a huge profit in India. Part 2 also looks exciting and a huge opening is on the cards. And no wonder that the 5 Hindi releases that also hit theatres would have a tough time especially when faced with a biggie. However, the Hindi releases would have gone unnoticed even if The Amazing Spider-Man 2 would not be releasing simultaneously. My views on the major Hindi releases:
KYA DILLI KYA LAHORE: It’s an unusual tale of a Hindustani and Pakistani solider and the unique bond they develop in the midst of the war between the 2 countries in 1948. The film was shot way back in 2011 and its launch happened at Wagah Border at the midnight of August 14-15, 2012. This was a great idea but sadly, the film is not a typical entertainer and hence couldn’t get buyers on time. The message of the film impressed Gulzar who came on board as presenter. The film stars Vijay Raaz (also credited as film’s director), Manu Rishi, Vishwajeet Pradhan and Raj Zutshi and surprisingly, Fiji Islands has been shown as Indo-Pak border in the film. This is a completely word of mouth flick and a positive response can help the film sustain
PURANI JEANS: Rati Agnihotri’s son Tanuj Virwani is back with his second film, Purani Jeans that also stars in leading roles Izabelle Leite and Aditya Seal (who was seen opp Manisha Koirala in Ek Chotisi Love Story). It’s a tale of friendship and love and as per the actors, the film doesn’t follow a linear narrative and keeps coming back and forth, from the present era to the 90s. Music by Ram Sampath has slowly picked up. The trailer of the film is quite okay but the good thing is the setting and characters don’t look fake and unconvincing. But this alone can’t be the reason why people will be attracted to see the film in theatres. Again, a positive word of mouth might help the film to an extent.
The other 3 releases – Kahin Hai Mera Pyar, Angry Young Man and The Dirty MMS – might sink without a trace though the latter might find patronage in mass belts.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE KYA DILLI KYA LAHORE OR PURANI JEANS AND WHY? DO LET ME KNOW!
Will Rajinikanth's Kochadaiiyaan's May 1 release impact Hindi films?
8:33 AM
Sonali Joshi Pitale (MID-DAY; March 29, 2014)
The makers of superstar Rajinikanth’s much anticipated film, Kochadaiiyaan, have now announced May 1 as the new release date for their film. This big budget film — it has cost approximately Rs 125 crore to make — will release in seven different languages all over India.
It is hardly surprising that no other South films are
releasing on this day. However, interestingly, some Hindi films have
already declared May 1 as their release date. Clearly, they are willing
to take on the challenge of competing against the Thalaiva ( it means
boss in Tamil). hitlist spoke to a few industry insiders to get their
take on whether these films can pass the box office test on May 1.So far, a total of three films — Indra Kumar’s Super Nani, Ashuu Trikha’s Koyelaanchal, Akhilesh Jaiswal’s Mastram, and Tanushri Chattrji Bassu’s Purani Jeans — are likely to release on same day as it is a holiday weekend. It may be pointed out here that May 1 is celebrated as Maharashtra Day as well as Labour Day and it falls on Thursday this year. Apart from these films, a Hollywood film, The Amazing Spider-Man 2, will also release in India on May 1.
A source points out that it’s surprising that Purani Jeans is clashing with Kochadaiiyaan, as they are both Eros productions. “It is bit odd for both of them to release them on the same day. It is likely that one of them will be pushed ahead.”
Trade expert Komal Nahata points out that Hindi films releasing on the same day as Rajini’s latest film will find it tough to do well at the BO. “After Robot’s resounding success, Rajinikanth’s star power has risen multifold across India and not just in the South. I am sure some filmmakers will change their release dates, as it is not advisable to clash with such a big film. But some of them will end up releasing their films as there are hardly any free weekends available now and they will invariably eat into each other’s business,” he says.
Anand Vishal, head of operation- sales, Fun Cinemas, says, “In some pockets of Mumbai, Rajini’s film will do well and we will factor this in while alloting screens. For example, in Matunga and some other Western suburbs, it will definitely do well. So we will give the film more screens in those areas. But yes, it is true that distribution becomes a tough task for us if more than two films release on the same day.” However, he is quick to point out that he expects Mastram to do well. “Youngsters like to watch such films as they deal with bold subjects,” he says.
Director Sangeeth Sivan, who has worked in both Bollywood and the South
film industry, feels that Rajini is a like a God in the South, so it is
understandable that no will consider a box office tussle with him. “However in Mumbai or elsewhere, I don’t think his films create a similar
mass hysteria. All said and done, it is an animation film. I agree that
Hindi cinemagoers will watch it, but it should have a limited impact on
other films. My guess is that Hindi directors will be more concerned
about cricket (IPL) than Rajini.” Mukesh Bhatt’s film, Citylights, that
is being directed by Hansal Mehta, was supposed to hit the screens on
May 1. But the film’s release has now been pushed ahead and it will
release on May 23.When asked if the reason behind this move was avoiding a clash with Rajini, Bhatt denied it. He said, “Our creative team decided to delay the film’s release ten days ago. The film is not complete as of now, and we don’t want to hurry it.” He also emphasised that with people having different tastes, all kinds of films can afford to release on the same day. “ One has to keep in mind that some films can’t avoid a clash as there are no free weekends available,” Bhatt said.
Director Ashuu Trikha offers a similar explanation for
changing the release date of his film, Koyelaanchal. He says, “I am
releasing my film on May 9 instead of May 1 and this decision was taken
long ago. I didn’t know anything about the release date of Rajinikanth’s
film back then.”Producer Sunil Bohra, whose film Mastram (right) is also slated to release on May 1, says, “I am not shifting the release date of my film. I think we have a different set of audience, so there is no harm in releasing the film on same day.”
Their confidence notwithstanding, how these films will actually fare remains to be seen.
Aditya Seal 'seals' his return into films
7:51 AM
Parag Maniar (BOMBAY TIMES; March 27, 2014)
Aditya Seal, who made his film debut as a teenager with Ek Chotisi Love Story opposite Manisha Koirala, is returning to the big screen with Purani Jeans.
The actor will play Samuel Joseph, a Himachal royal family member who loves music and friends. His world will be shaken when he and his bestie (Tanuj Virwani) fall for the same girl, Nayantara (Izabelle Leite).
Aditya says, “Sam lives on the edge and for-the-moment. He is so unlike me and that was challenging.” After Ek Chotisi... he deliberately chose to stay away from films. “I wanted to finish my studies,” he explains. Director Tanushri Chattrji Bassu says, “Aditya has played a complex role quite effortlessly.”
Producer Manju Lulla agrees. “I’m sure his efforts will pay off,” she says, adding, “He has been roped in for a three-film deal with us.”
Purani Jeans, produced by Eros International and NextGen Films, releases May 1.
Sarika tells Akshara to concentrate on film debut than Tanuj Virwani?
7:51 AM
Vickey Lalwani (MUMBAI MIRROR; March 26, 2014)
Sarika and Kamal Haasan's younger daughter Akshara's growing friendship with Rati Agnihotri's son Tanuj Virwani has not gone down well with the actress's mother, according to the grapevine.
Sources say that Sarika doesn't want Akshara to be "distracted" by ishq vishq. She has advised her to focus on her Bollywood debut, R Balki's next, in which she will share the screen with Amitabh Bachchan and Dhanush.
However, Akshara has turned a deaf ear to Sarika's counsel and continues to spend quality time with Tanuj. He was earlier linked with Izabelle Liete who is now spotted with Sidharth Malhotra.
Buzz is, Tanuj's Worli residence has become a meeting point for the young couple every Saturday. A few other friends join in too.
The romance also created ripples on the sets of Purani Jeans which stars Rati, Sarika and Tanuj.
Revealed a source close to the production, "Thankfully, Rati and Sarika did not have any scenes together. But Sarika made her displeasure clear when it came to shooting with Tanuj."
To add to Sarika's woes, Akshara visited her at the film's Manali location too and stayed on for several days. During this time, the two youngsters spent a lot of time together.
When Mirror contacted the film's director Tanushree Basu to enquire about the cold vibes between Sarika and Tanuj, she admitted, "Sarika is very strict when it comes to work. She likes to be focussed while shooting."
Added Tanushree, "As for Tanuj, I can only say that he was really nervous while shooting with Sarika. At the end of the day, she is a veteran, isn't she?"
Sarika chose not to respond to our calls and text messages.
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