Nuvvostanante Nennodantana (2005)

Siddharth. The only reason that made me watch this movie. Oh, did I forget lovely Trisha ? No, not at all. How can I deny the love of the lead pair and not to watch this wonderful movie?

NVNV is a Telugu film a mish-mash of few Hindi movies. Elements are taken from three of the Salman Khan movies : Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya, Maine Pyar Kiya and Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam. Yet, the treatment and acts are something that makes it worth watch. And yes, a worthy mention is the cinematography that makes it a must 'watch'. The greenery of hilly villages, is captured exquisitely, making it a treat to eyes.

Directed by Prabhu Deva, NVNV tells story of Santosh [Siddharth], a young NRI guy who is in India to attend a wedding. Meets Siri [Trisha] the only sister of over protecting Krishna [Srihari]. And go through clashes with her, but finally ends up in love instead. He straightly goes to the village to win trust of Siri's brother

Most of the first half is deja vu for Hindi film viewer. Though the scenes are almost similar to the epic Hindi films i have mentioned above, it has been treated differently that we don't feel annoyed, but love them.Siddharth charms with his own style. While Trisha mostly remain silent. Yet, a lovely performance. The second half goes a little bit over the top by Hindi films' standard. With some loud comedy and scenes where Santosh is being harassed by Krishna's men. But still, the flow keeps moving without any glitch. Music by Devi Sri Prasad goes quite well with the story. Personal favorite are Niluvadhamu & Something Something.

We already grew up watching the movies NVNV is based on. Yet, the movie charms you with its own moments, acts and sweetness. Must see for Siddharth fans, must see as a starting point to Southie cinema, coz this will give clear idea how the movies are lovingly made down south.

100% Love (2011)

Was keen on watching this Telugu movie after hearing praise from fellow twitter friends. Also, I had heard much about how 'good' Tamanna is, and Naga Chaitanya whom I already liked in his short appearance in VTV. So, there finally I watched 100% Love and totally loved it.

100% Love is story of Balu [Naga], who always stands first in his college. Enter Mahalakshmi [Tamanna], his distant relative from village, who stays in his house to study in city college. How both compete with each other in studies and later help each other through further issues they face, that's a treat to watch. After a misunderstanding, the two separates - only to meet again after three years, to create yet another round of charming moments.

The movie takes itself so lightly that it doesn't burden the viewer with extra emotions or heavy moments. Sparks of funny moments are always there. First half where both the leads are young, college students - has utterly charming moments. And while in second half, they are a bit mature but fun is still there. Personal favorite is the Raj-Senorita track. [yes, Shahrukh-Kajol one ;)]

Music of Devi Sri Prasad is peppy, catchy and instantly likeable. I already loved all the songs before watching the movie, especially Dhooram Dhooram and That is Mahalakshmi, but after watching the movie, the song I loved the most on screen was Diyalo Diyala, which I least liked when heard as an audio track. Its a kinda wedding song cum item song. A riot of colors and fun lyrics.

Out and out entertaining, young and lovely movie 100% Love is. No doubt Bollywood is fighting over getting its remake rights.


Tags: 100% Love movie, full, download, telugu, with subs, hindi remake, naga chaitnya, tamanna, hot, south indian actress, wallpapers

Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa - VTV remake is still on !

Yes I'm living in a nutshell, don't know what's happening in and around the world. But when I knew this news somehow - I jumped around. Yes ! The remake is still on [named 'Prem Katha!!!! eww] ! Yes, after Pratiek's [reportedly] denial to act with Trisha [pagal guy] I thought [and read too] that remake of Gautham Vasudev Menon's musical superhit "Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa" - is still on its track. Jessie's role is now played by Amy Jackson [!] a British model and actress. [she was last seen in Madrasapattinam - tamil fli

ck] [P.S. OMG She's really hot ;) hope she can fit herself inside Saaree for most of the frames]

If reports are to be believed, the schedule of Kerala is almost over, and similarly, schedule of [the most crucial part] US, is over on 6th June. Earlier schedules were shot in Mumbai and Goa. What's more - A R Rahman is STILL with the team. Yes, the movie can't be the same without his music. [oh, and the dialogues +lyrics are by Javed Akhtar !]

Eagerly waiting for the remake. Pratiek - please don't disappoint.

btw, see the fan art I found on PremKatha's Wiki page.

Tags : VTV remake, Prateik at Karthik, Amy Jackson as Jessie, Trisha, Gautham Menon, Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa remake, Hindi VTV songs, Rahman, Amy Jackson pictures

Favorite Southie Songs : A Beginner's Guide to Southie Music

Well, I have already explained in this post why do i like South Indian films, now its time for the music. Yes, its very tough to understand and loving the songs other than your language. So South Indian music took long for me to getting used to - and now I am addicted to find and listen music of many of the Southie languages. Thanks to friends on twitter @mad_nad & @FagunB for recommendations. Here I would like to list out some of my current favorite soundtracks - that anyone who's new to the genre, would love to listen.

Vinnaithaandi Varuvaaya: [Tamil]

My first encounter with Tamil songs - and how I loved it ! I just can't get enough of gorgeous songs composed by A R Rahman, by far one of my most favorite by him. While Kannukkul Kannai is a foot tapping number, Anbil Avan is fab with its 'big' sound. Omana Penne - combined with Tamil and Malayalam lines -steals your heart at first listen, 'rock'ish Aaromale and soothing Title song are just fantastic. But there are two tracks which has stolen my heart - Mannipaaya and Hosanna.

Shreya Ghoshal and Rahman sings this gorgeous melody, Mannipaya, with continued strings of Piano, a lovely LOVELY track.


And hosanna...oh, HOSANNA !!! This track by Vijay Prakash, Suzanne D'mello and Blaaze - is simply out of this world [for me atleast :P] the strings, the flute, the rap ..ah the works !



Varanam Aayiram : [Tamil]

Harris Jayraj - I have many recommendations of him. The one I have heard is Varanam Aayiram. Breezy soundtrack. From traditional Annul Maelae and Ava Enna, to rocking Adiyae Kolluthey - its addictive.

While it has two versions of song 'Oh Shanthi Shanthi', my most favorite is the slow one. 'Nenjukkul Peidhidum' sung by Hariharan, the lyrics are just wonderful. calm strings and dreamy voice makes it so special.




Second Favorite is Mundhinam. Sprinkled with 70's fun beats- the duet is a -fun-romantic song.




Anwar : [Malayalam]

This latest movie from down south has some really good songs composed by Gopi Sunder. Njan is a commendable effort of rap in English as well as Malayalm. Vijanatheeram sounds like a warrior's song sung by Sukhwinder. Kanninimma is a really addictive tune with its breathless singing.

Kavithapol is a favorite - sung by Gopi Sunder and A V Uma. A haunting track.



while Kizhakku Pookkum was a surprise to me. Arabic vocals by Sabri Brothers, accompanied by sweet voice of Shreya Ghoshal - excellent fusion.




En Swasa Kaatrea : [Tamil]

Well, this is an old Rahman soundtrack, as old as 11 years. But still it sounds fresh as all Rahman songs do. This is the movie which has original sources of 'Que Sera Sera [pukar]' and Jumbalika [Thakshak] - my favorite 90's Rahman numbers. Kadhal Niagara and Jumbalakka. While title track is a silent slow number, Chinna Chinna is a Tamil Garba !! Only Rahman could think of such arrangements.

Theendai Mei Theendai - is quite an innovative track, with its 'Enigma'ish sounds and Church choir singing. Sung by the perfect pair - SP Balasubramaniyam and Chitra.



and Thirakkaatha Kaattukulle is a really sweet song with naughty singing by Chitra and Unni Krishnan. Arrangements are gorgeous.



and finally,

The first southie movie I had seen,

Bommarillu : [Telugu]

Love love love Genelia, and this movie, and Sidhu. And why not the songs? All songs are fun fun. Bommani Geesthe - the romantic song to We have a Romeo - a fun college song. Kaani Ippudu - hmmmm.... and a typical 'shaadi' song - Laloo Darwaja with the lines Love makes life beautiful.... What's there to not love this soundtrack?

And the most favorite of mine - just for its fabulous singing by Siddharth himself. Appudo Ippudo !! Love its choreography love the lyrics love Genelia !!

Tags : Vinnaithandi Varuvaaya, Varanam Aayiram, Rahman, Harris Jayraj, Gopi Sunder, Anwar, En Swasa Katrae, VTV, Hosaanna, Mannipayya, Oh Shanthi Shanthi, Tamil Songs, Telugu Songs, Malayalam Songs

Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa [2010] : Just Love....nothing else.

Hell Yeah ! Great question there... So, here comes another from 'A film about films'. VTV ! "Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa' [Will you Cross the Skies for Me?]

This is a movie, which I can blindly suggest to people who love Romantic movies. Written and Directed by Gautham Menon- Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa is absolutely lovable tale of - Karthik & Jessie. Played by Silambarasan Rajendar and Trisha Krishnan.

As you know, I am not a regular watcher of Southie movies. Its been just a few movies I've seen so far. But I was so curious about this one, just because I've heard a lot about its music via my fellow Twitter friends. I came to know that Rahman has created a magical score for this one. So I got hold of the soundtrack, and believe me, the songs still can't get out from my head. Wonderful songs. For the first time I am listening to Tamil songs, and can't get enough. To Start off with - Hosanna.

Then absolutely touchy - Mannipaya sung by Shreya Ghoshal and Rahman. And Omanna Penne... and more. Just love all.

Oh, I was talking about the film, no?. VTV is story of a Hindu boy and a Christian Girl. Got the story? Father of the girl don't like boy from other caste seeing his girl. Menacing brother of heroine is also there. But hey... the cliches stop there. And fresh treatment starts. Story moves on with interestingly different track. How the girl denies facts though she's also in love, how further twists add more problems to life of these lovers and finally how destiny plays its role. Really refreshing storytelling. And underplayed lead characters makes it more special.

There is subtle charm in the love story which won me over. And can't get enough of re-watching the songs and the moments. Also what complements the movie most after music, is its breathtaking visuals. Beautiful Kerala captured with equally beautiful Trisha. See my thoughts spoken by Karthik....

Camera work is also different from usual stuff. Many scenes have hand-held camera like effects. Even the animation is used brilliantly in a song toward the end. To say in few words, the movie scores high with technical beauty.

As mentioned earlier, performances are underplayed, but leaves impact. Silambarasan has his own style of speaking, which I found interesting. While Trisha looks stunning in Saarees and plays her part flawlessly. It must be tough for her to play such character. A scene near finale, made me cry throughout Ten minutes of it. Just one word for the actors - Fantastic !

Steal it.. download it.. or buy it - but must watch it !

Magadheera : The XXL Experience

After my post about Southie movies, I got many recommendations to watch Magadheera [Telugu]. Also, Nicki's suggestion was always there. Another reason I was curious to watch this because many rumours going on in recent past about remake of this movie in Hindi with Hrithik and Aamir !! [I think now one would try to make such movie in Bollywood.] So I had to see this movie.

Directed by S. S. Rajamouli, Magadheera has everything 'large' in it. AS most of the Southies are. But this one got me hooked with all the visuals from the past. And if you give great visuals to me, I 'm always up for such movie. Didn't know that Ram Charan Teja is son of Chiranjeevi, untill he came in first song. And Kajal Agarwaal looks exceptionally good. Sigh...why southie actresses are so good that I fall instantly for them. :)

Magadheera is story of Harsha [Ramcharan] and Indu[Kaajal] who meet just by an accident. Harsha just can not find out what is there in Indu, that whenever he meets him, he gets to see images of past in his mind. Enter devil Raghubeer [Dev Gill] who wants to make Indu his wife. Soon Raghuber finds out about his past. What happened in 16th century and why he's getting attracted to Indu. Twists and turns in the story and things go 400 years back to 16th century where everything gets unfold. Mysteries get resolved.

I found the movie was lagging a little bit in first half, as the love story was under developed. unlike other mushy Southie movies I saw But some sparkling shots of beautiful Kaajal Agarwaal, and some mushy moments, it was watchable. And brilliant idea of putting crucial scene at opening shot of the movie, director made a really wise decision. That viewer gets hooked to know what had happened in past. Also the overall execution of things in 16th century, is mind blowing. History with dash of masala. A perfect combination for an entertaining movie. Oh, and in very few movies I saw a 'perfect' timing for intermission. I was like whistling on the entry of 'KaalBhairava' - the past avatar of Ramcharan. Huge sets of palaces are fantastic, I was surprised that all of them were actually 'sets', constructed in Ramoji Film city !! Also, both deserts of India, Rajasthan and Gujarat - were gorgeous on screen. Sigh... why I could not make it to see this on big screen.Ramcharan Teja's acted well. But looking at competition, I feel he needs to learn more dance steps. Kaajal was lovely in each frame [that's what a girl should be in "Hero's" film, right?] and the baddie, Dev Gill, was really BAD. Music, besides 'Dheera Dheera', none of the song I can remember now. May be because I'm new to these movies. Or may be causeDheera dheera 's picturisation was grandeur. I think Rahman could have done huge wonders for such movie.

A must watch if you love movies on Large canvas. Pure masala ! No matter its in a language other than Hindi.

Happy : When Allu Arjun & Genelia made 'us' Happy !

Yes, you have read that right. 'Us' is the word now. After all, I have got married in recent past, so 'she' is also being a partner in my movie watching spree. As Bommarillu was my first Telugu movie, I insisted that she should watch Happy with me. And by Nicki's review, I knew it will going to be an enjoyable watch. And indeed it was.

Happy is an absolutely colorful movie. And with Genelia as lead actress, I can fall for it instantly. No doubt about it. Being first movie of Allu Arjun, I was curious why he has a great fan following. And now I know why. He has great dancing skills, fantastic comic timing and nice acting skills. Though sometimes I felt he was going little bit OTT, [like in climax] but maybe its just because I am new to Southies.

Ooh, and Genelia !!! Haaye!! I can never go tired of watching her on screen. Though she was quite calm in this one, but in second half, she was at it again. Bubbly as always she is. In serious moments she shines too. More and more movies of her I must see now. :)

Directed by A. Karunakaran, movie is almost flawless. There is hardly any place where movie lacks its grip over screenplay. One by one the twists and turns take place and making movie more interesting as it progresses. What was more surprising to me was the humor. Its absolutely funny throughout. Even serious actor like Manoj Bajpai made me laugh. Equally, romance is so cute in the movie. Loved mushy moments between both Bunny and Madhumita. Only glitch in the movie are its Political moments. I never find politics interesting. Not in movies too. So for me, it was boring part of the movie. But thank God, there were pretty less moments.

Song and dance are always a highlight of Southie movies. Besides language barrier, I found all songs interesting. Add fabulous dancing of Allu Arjun in it, pretty enjoyable the songs are. The songs I liked most were, Ossa Ossa - mad mad fun. And I hate You had cute moments innit. While title song Happy, reminded me of my bachelorhood days. :) Wonderful vocals of Shankar Mahadevan made me fall for Nee Kosam.

All in all, the movie is lovable. Enjoyable one with all elements of masala in it. We both had great fun watching this one. Looking forward to more such movies :)

Why do I like South Indian films?

When Blogger Dost Nicki, tweeted she's doing blog post about 'why do I like South Indian Films', I instantly decided to do a similar post. Here is her fantastic post which describes power of cinema, which is not bound by barriers of languages.

Talking about that barrier, I would say there are so many barriers in India itself. It feels sad, but our country is currently in very delicate phase where everyone is emphasizing on making their own language superior, while completely ignoring others. And that's one reason, why -still being in India- I was away from the movie world of South India.

I live in Gujarat-a western state of India. Where it is really tough to get Southies on DVDs. Even in the biggest chain of DVD store, Crossword, they don't have any regional movies other than Gujarati, which is local language here. Thanks to multiplexes, there are some one or two of them, which releases new southies-only the big releases. But only, without subtitles. So, that way, I was untouched by the awesomeness of south Indian movies. Only a few I saw, which were dubbed ,mostly Kamal Hassan's movies, which are always fantastic.

Thanks to Blogger, I got to meet Bloggers who are not even Indian, but still love South Indian movies. And by their recommendation, I got to see Bommarillu. The first Telugu movie I saw. And instantly fell in love it. Both Genelia and Siddharth were awesome in the movie. Which made me more curious about their movies. And then, Nicki sent me 4 movies of Genelia !!!! Humbled I am. So far I managed to see Happy. Starring Genelia and superstar Allu Arjun. I absolutely enjoyed that one too. A really entertaining one.

So, by watching only two movies, I can't comment on southies. But having watched many dubbed movies, and the famous remakes, I can say Southies are far more entertaining then the average Bollywood products which these days makers are churning out. Mind it, I am a DIE HARD Bollywood fan, but whatever they are making these days, is neither Hollywood nor Bollywood. Its somewhere in between that makes me disappointed. Fresh example is MNIK, where KJo lost his sense in balancing between desi and videsi things. Good old KJo with comedy, drama and naach gaana was more enjoyable then this mediocre stuff.

Somewhere I agree with people who says Southie movies sometimes have over the top act and ''oh, i can't believe this'' kind of stuff. But hey, that makes it more enjoyable. After all, its only one little harmless movie, not a true to life documentary. Remember, most of the biggest hits of recent times, are the remakes or the southie formula movies. Sample Om Shanti Om, and you instantly remind Yanna Rascala !! Mind it! . Or the complete entertainment package Wanted. And of course, biggest money churner Ghajini. And oh, my faaaavvv Saathiya. List can go on and on..

What I liked most is how they shape up romance on screen. Its always so cute. See Saathiya. See Hasini in Bommarillu. See Happy. See Kalpana of Ghajini. It always touches your heart instantly. The dance ! And ability to make audience glued to seats.

Thing is not that South Indian movies v/s Hindi movies. But thing is, such nice movies are made here in our country, but still, it can't reach to all movie lovers. Bad, bad. Do something about that dear film makers. And oh, don't forget to release movies with subtitles, Please !!

Wanted : Movie Review

It was everywhere. Each channel each newspaper everyone, was telling Salman is going to make it big with 'Wanted'. Still I wasn't looking forward to it at all ! It happens to me many times that if the movie doesn't have good, my kinda music, I would never watch the movie. And 'Wanted' had very much above average soundtrack. So I wasn't thinking of watching it. Also, Action is not my favorite genre at all. Unless theBollywoodFan insisted me on watching it. And also, I found ajnabi, Louella and Nicki's views on Pokiri, made me watch this film. And want to thank all for direct/indirect recco. cause Wanted is such a fantastic experience !!

First and foremost, yes it is like a 90's movie, masala stuff full with action, emotion, comedy. But hey, wait, where was the Technical brilliance in 90's?? Or the thumping sound of action and brilliant screenplay + editing?? Similarity ends instantly. Its only the theme that is always a tried and tested one in Bollywood. But the treatment of the storyline and projection on screen is what makes Wanted worth ceetees and shout outs, and yes House Fulls!!! No doubt the original movies must be great in all senses, cause I think no movie can come closer to originals when they are remade [in that case, please don't argue abt Ghajini, as I still haven't replaced my broken DVD of Tamil Ghajini].

Wanted clearly goes to Salman for his full of arrogance, attitude filled act. He plays what he is. And that works best for his role of Radhey who is a careless, 'self employed' guy whose job is, well, to kill/thrash people but still he has his virtues. Being a 'Hero', he has his girl too. Swweeeet sugary Aayesha Takia playing Jhanvi. He has his own share of baddies. Mahesh Manjrekar as Inspector Talpade, is in a role, you will hate him like you used to hate Prem Chopra in older times. And biggest of them all, Don Ghani Bhai, played by Prakash Raj - unique character who makes you laugh even though he is THE villain !! A Perfect mixup for a Masala entertainer.

Salman carries the movie on his own. He is here, there everywhere, and wins ceetees and shouts from everyone. Director Prabhudeva makes him dance too, and man, He IS DANCING!! First song is fantastic [Jalwa]. Other songs are also not bad at all, all have the 'dhinchak' feeling, but works well only in the movie. I feel movie could have fared more than this if it had some memorable tracks. The romantic track is so lovely. Each and every scene between Salman And Aayesha is so cute, you would instantly fall for both. Ayesha is always a treat to watch. Also most of the scenes has a touch of humour which makes it more enjoyable. and hey, did I mention that both of them look great together?? :)

Supporting cast including Inder Kumar, Vinod Khanna and Govind Namdeo have acted quite well. Most interesting to me was Prakash Raj as Ghani Bhai. A Don who has great sense of humour and brutal strategies. [thanks @louella for reminding me about him]. I have seen him in only one movie [Bommarillu] so this took me surprised cause he is playing baddie in this one.

Technically the movie is near perfect. Everything is larger than life, a usual thing in a southie. Background score is great by Salim-Suleiman. And action is - mind blowing. Screenplay loses its pace a little bit after first half, but soon the movie gets a 'Fantastic' twist and audience gets on their edges of seat. Is this Prabhudeva???? The ace dancer who directs such fundoo movies !! Great work da...Keep it up. But yes, keep an eye on Music next time.

My Rating : 3.75 / 5 !! [thoroughly enjoyable]
Favorite Scenes : Lift scene between Radhey+Jhanvi, Shirtless Sallu :P, The Pasta treat

Dhamal NachGana + SweetRomance + FundooAction + Shirtless SALLU = CeeTee + Shout Out + HOUSE FULL = #Wanted Rocked! (LOVED @ayeshatakia :-)

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Lastly, Here are some funny Tweets by @sakshijuneja a big Sallu fan, tweeted while watching the movie. :-) [Tweets in order of movie sequences]

• Wanted Wanted Wanted Wanted Wanted Tonight Tonight Tonight Tonight Tonight Drooling Drooling Drooling Drooling Drooling
• Teri maa ..... Kasam. Sal Man rocks!
• B grade corny shit and I'm loving it!
• Torn ripped jeans never looked this good. Salman I lub you.
• When will he remove his shirt. Shirtless sallu is what I paid 300 bucks for me.
• Okay now this guy is sexier villan than Gajni himself.
• Sal Man Sal Man Sal Man Sal Man
  
• Nikali nikali shirt nikali and WOW! There you Aamir takloo sucker!
• Okay folks that's it for the night. B grade A class phillum. Sal is the Man!!!!