The lives of our Bollywood Celebrity is quite interesting, always! There is something or the other which keeps them in the news for either good things or things they wouldn’t want to be in the limelight for. Here are the 10 most interesting things in Bollywood right now.
The legendary Milkha Singh is bowled over by Farhan Akhtar’s depiction of him in the movie. Says the original sprinter, “He is exactly how I wanted to see myself on screen. Full credit to Rakeysh for seeing me in Farhan. Many actors, including Akshay Kumar, wanted to play Milkha Singh. But the boy (Farhan) has done kamaal. He has replicated me on screen. He even resembles me. The body language and the discipline Farhan adopted to play me… yeh koi maamooli baat nahin hai (it was not easy).”
Admits the fashion diva, “Very thoughtfully I tried not to do much with my father. It’s a very selfish decision, as I just wanted my own identity. So even when Aisha was produced, my sister (Rhea Kapoor) produced it. It was her first film. I never asked my father to do this for me. I think I have a man’s ego in a lot of ways.”
Apparently, Piggy Chops is so mightily pissed about her look test for the Mary Kom biopic being leaked online that she has expressed her desire to do the make-over all over again. However, the latest we hear is that the actress will not resemble Mary Kom in terms of looks, but will only sport the boxing champ’s hairstyle.
Actress Priyanka Chopra, who will be essaying the role of Olympic Bronze medalist Mary Kom, visited the boxer’s hometown Imphal to get first hand information about her. The National Award winning actress, who has been taking notes on Mary Kom’s life, was guided by none other than the player herself. Here is a picture of the Desi Girl with Mary and her husband K Onler Kom and their twin sons, Rechungvar and Khupneivar.
Jacqueline Fernandez felt like home while in Macau. Double thumbs up for that pretty face and the cheerful and peppy pic!
Wearing colored bottoms, Rani, Kats and Parineeti took in the recent movie screening. Kangana joined the ladies wearing hot pants. Any favorites?
Time and again, this Besharam star is clicked showing off the wrong finger. Way Ranbir why? We certainly expect much better from you.
Shahrukh Khan and Madhuri Dixit relived the Dil Toh Pagal Hai magic, on the sets of Jhalak Dikhla Ja. The duo danced to the tune of ‘Are Re Are’.
Imran Khan and Kareena Kapoor seem to be living it up while filming director Punit Malhotra’s film Gori Tere Pyaar Mein. These stills from the film’s sets reveal some candid moments between the trio.
10 most interesting things in Bollywood right now
Labels:
Bollywood,
Imran Khan,
KAREENA KAPOOR,
Madhuri Dixit,
Ranbir Kapoor,
Shahrukh Khan
Hot & steamy scenes from Bollywood movies, 2013
Nowadays, every Bollywood movie has to have at least two to three bold and sexy scenes. Even a serious film like Shootout at Wadala had a few steamy scenes between the lead actors. We bring to you some of the boldest views featured in recent Bollywood movies, 2013.
The film starred newbies Arjun Kapoor and Sasha Agha. Their lovemaking scene in the film scorched the screens. Interestingly, Sasha, who is the daughter of notable Pakistani actress and singer Salma Agha, debuted with Aurangzeb and was bold & comfortable enough to don a bikini, despite coming from a culture that expects women to be more modestly dressed.
Starring John Abraham and Kangana Ranaut in the lead, Shootout at Wadala saw some intense and raw lovemaking scenes. Apparently, the entire set had to be emptied out for the shoots and just the key technicians were permitted. Sanjay Gupta, the director of the film stated that these are the first-of-their-kind scenes for a Bollywood movie; sexual yet aesthetically shot.
This glamorous flick had a steamy scene between Saif Ali Khan and Deepika Padukone. One of the most loved on screen couples, Saif and Deepy took their sizzling chemistry to a whole new level. Apparently, Deepika, who has never shied away from on-screen intimacy, this time was a bit reluctant. However, a pro that she is, the actress finally said yes to the lovemaking scene, considering its relevance to the script.
The movie, like it’s prequel, was packed with bold scenes. Mahie Gill did what she does best: portrayed her sexy self. Buzz was that the lovemaking scene was too bold and so the actress had a word with the director to tone it down.
Ranveer Singh and Sonakshi Sinha made love on screen in their latest flick Lootera. Ranveer reveals,“Vikramaditya made a closed set for our comfort where there was only the cameraman, Vikram, me and Sonakshi. He gave us our own space and was very supportive.”
AURANGZEB
SHOOTOUT AT WADALA
RACE 2
SAHEB BIWI AUR GANGSTER RETURNS
LOOTERA
Labels:
Bollywood,
Hot or Not,
Movies
5 Best Dance Moves Of Hrithik Roshan
Remember that hand pump dance move from Kaho Na Pyaar Hai? It was a move that launched Hrithik Roshan’s career and the aspirations of millions of wannabes trying to copy their new found dance guru. Any thoughts that Roshan Jr was a one hit wonder drowned in the mass hysteria that was girls chorusing “Ae mere dil too gaye ja, aye ya e ya o, a e ya!” Remember that? (Big fan, don’t hate)
So time went on and Hrithik’s movies would be houseful as much for the strong movie content as for his dancing skills. And his dancing skills are second to none.
Shahrukh pretty much sums up how we feel when Hrithik starts dancing.
He’s inspired a whole generation to try styles as diverse as locking & popping, jazz and just generally set-dance-floor-on-fire style. We all have our favourites but here’s a list of 5 that Team Celebden absolutely loves! And this is not a ranking, because who are we to even criticize such mastery?
So time went on and Hrithik’s movies would be houseful as much for the strong movie content as for his dancing skills. And his dancing skills are second to none.
Shahrukh pretty much sums up how we feel when Hrithik starts dancing.
He’s inspired a whole generation to try styles as diverse as locking & popping, jazz and just generally set-dance-floor-on-fire style. We all have our favourites but here’s a list of 5 that Team Celebden absolutely loves! And this is not a ranking, because who are we to even criticize such mastery?
Main Aisa Kyun Hoon – Lakshya
Lazy Hrithik transforms into bravery medal winning soldier and, along the way, sizzles waltzs the screen in a strait jacket.
Fire – Kites
Probably the best Bollywood representation of an underground dance culture till date.Prabhu Deva’s ABCD came close, but that was only in the bits where he danced.
Ek Pal Ka Jeena – Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai
After this dance step, there was no way Hrithik was not going to be a superstar. Just look at him go!
Dhoom Again – Dhoom 2
He taught Aishwarya Rai a few steps. ‘Nuff said.JAANE KISKE KHWAAB – GUZAARISH
Best solo dance performance ever. There are few performances that can be considered art, and Hrithik’s portrayal in this one is one such instance.
There are so many more Hrithik moments that we love, but these 5 take the cake. Here’s hoping Krrish 3 blows our minds!

Labels:
Dance,
Hrithik Roshan,
Video,
Video Songs
Top 6 most powerful actresses in Bollywood
Power is sexy and seductive. It’s like a drug one would never want to let go off. In a male dominated country like ours, where women find it hard to break out, there are some sectors where feminine strength has begun to hold strong. Here’s a look at some of the leading ladies of Bollywood who inspire everyday women with their bold choices and strong personality.
She is a woman of substance. With the kind of competition in the world of Bollywood today, unlike other actors who prefer playing it safe, our lady Vidya Balan is doing just the opposite – the unimaginable. Busting the myth that leading actresses fade with age, Vidya has become a symbol of women power and emancipation. Marrying Siddharth Roy Kapur at the peak of her career shows how comfortable she is in her skin. The actress has proved to the audiences that one doesn’t really need a ‘Khan’ in their films to deliver superhits.
She is the reigning queen of Bollywood. Every actor, be it new or established ones, craves to act opposite her. In a span of 13 years,Kareena has done it all, from acting in critically acclaimed movies like Chameli and Omkara to comedy flicks like Jab We Met and Golmaal 3. Her thumkas and jhatkas added to her glamour, proving that she’s the embodiment of an all-round movie star. She also became the first actress to be part of three back-to-back blockbusters (3 Idiots, Golmaal 3 and Bodyguard). Kareena is currently the highest paid actress and charges as much as her male counterparts.
She is the ultimate diva and is absolutely worth all the attention, praise and appreciation she gets. Right from the age of 21, Aishwarya Rai has won millions of hearts. Whatever she does inevitably becomes a topic of discussion. Shutterbugs love her and go literally wild even if they manage to catch a glimpse of the actress. Needless to mention, Aish is the global face of India. She is an ideal, an example or whatever you may call it, to a million of young ladies. Currently, the actress is enjoying motherhood, But Aish, we really really REALLY miss you, on screen.
Every filmmaker wants a piece of her. The Barbie doll of Bollywood,Katrina Kaif sloughed it out really hard, to earn the respect and reputation that she has today. The actress is considered as one of the most bankable stars in the industry. Her pretty face and that Brit accent is only a bonus. She is an inspiration to many young dreamers. Despite being an outsider, Katrina is a proof that with hard work, everything is possible. Today, the actress is doing extremely well for herself in the big, bad world of movies. Her role in the upcoming Dhoom 3 with perfectionist Aamir Khan, is much awaited and Kats popularity only seems to be soaring by the day.
She’s a super talented and absolutely brilliant actress, an amazing singer and most importantly, a beautiful human being. Her diversifying talent is what makes her a hotter property with every passing day. The Dostana babe has done it all, from anchoring shows, to acting and even singing. Ok! She has not always tasted hits but I guess, a film like Barfi! is enough to overlook all her flops, no?
She is one actress who has created a tremendous impact on filmmakers and continues to do so even today. Kajol is a powerhouse of performance and continues to give her counterparts a race for their money. Though the actress may not have had a single release in the past two years, we hear that she is currently reading a lot of scripts, and hence news of her next film is eagerly awaited.
VIDYA BALAN – BOLLYWOOD’S MOST VERSATILE ACTRESS
KAREENA KAPOOR – THE FIRST BOLLYWOOD ACTRESS TO CHARGE IN CRORES
AISHWARYA RAI – A TRUE GLOBAL ICON WHO REPRESENTS BOLLYWOOD
KATRINA KAIF – A LUCKY CHARM
PRIYANKA CHOPRA – AN ALL ROUNDER
KAJOL – DIVA DU JOUR
Who else do you think is a woman of substance in the industry?
Labels:
AISHWARYA RAI,
Bollywood,
KAJOL,
KAREENA KAPOOR,
KATRINA KAIF,
PRIYANKA CHOPRA,
VIDYA BALAN
Shahid Kapoor desperately needs a hit to compete with Ranbir/Ranveer!
When Shahid Kapoor made his Bollywood debut with Ishq Vishk, people said he was just a copy of Shahrukh Khan but if you look from another angle, people actually saw a hint of the King Khan in this new actor. But now, you might just find a bit of Salman Khan in Shahid Kapoor when his movie Phata Poster Nikla Hero releases.
Looking at the past and how all the new actors like Ranbir Kapoor, Ranveer Singh and Imran Khan have become so bankable, Shahid Kapoor desperately needs a huge hit. The actor entered Bollywood almost a decade ago and has appeared in 19 movies and was also hailed as the next big thing in Bollywood. But his journey hasn’t been the way he wanted to and delivered six straight flops.
He somehow managed to lose Karan Johar’s Gori Tere Pyaar Mein and Yash Raj Film’s Shudd Desi Romance with his not-so-friendly attitude and with not many movies under his belt except for Rambo Rajkumar & Phata Poster Nikla Hero, he really needs to start working hard enough to compete with the new crop of stars!
Labels:
Bollywood,
Movies,
Ranveer Kapoor,
Ranvir Kapoor,
Shahid Kapoor,
Upcoming Movies
Deepika to play Shahrukh’s leading lady in Happy New Year
Even before their film Chennai Express released on August 9, Deepika has bagged another lead role opposite SRK in Farah Khan’s next
Slow and steady wins the race, they say, and it recently turned true for Deepika Padukone. The Chennai Express actor has bagged the coveted role opposite Shahrukh Khan in Farah Khan’s next directorial venture, Happy New Year. A little birdie tells us that Deepika had been eyeing the role for quite some time, but she was patient since her dates were being worked out.
After a lot of speculation as to who will star opposite the Baadshah in his next home production, we are glad that we will get to see SRK and Dippy together on screen again soon. First it was Jennifer Winget Grover of Saraswatichandra fame and then it was Sushant Singh Rajput’s girlfriend Ankita Lokhande who were rumoured to play SRK’s leading lady, as Farah was looking for a fresh face.
Later, it was Katrina Kaif whom Shahrukh was rooting for, especially after their movie Jab Tak Hai Jaan did well.
Deepika has been finalised now. She debuted in SRK’s production Om Shanti Om that was directed by Farah. So she is Farah’s baby, so to speak.
Happy New Year is to go on floors in September 2014. The film also stars Abhishek Bachchan, Boman Irani, Vivaan Shah and reportedly Prithviraj who was last seen opposite Rani Mukerji inAiyya and also in a supporting role in Aurangzeb.
Now that sounds like a package deal. We all just hope that there are no changes in the cast!
Labels:
Bollywood,
Chennai Express,
Deepika Padukone,
Movies,
Shahrukh Khan
Interview: "Smurfs 2" Director Raja Gosnell
Sony's Smurfs 2 continues the live action/CG animation franchise based on the world-famous comic-book series created by the Belgian comics artist Peyo. This time the Smurfs team up with their human friends to rescue Smurfette, who has been kidnapped by Gargamel since "she knows a secret spell that can turn the evil sorcerer's newest creation - creatures called the Naughties - into real Smurfs". The film opens Wednesday - and I had a chance to ask it's director Raja Gosnell a few questions.
Lights-Camera-Jackson: You began your career as a film editor, and have a lot of credits as an editor. How did you go from that to becoming as major Hollywood director?
Raja Gosnell: I was really lucky. I worked with some great people. I had edited a lot of big family comedies and so I was looking for something different - they don't give out Oscars for that sort of thing. I wondered if I should start editing dramas or...should I start directing. My wife and I wrote a couple of screenplays, which actually didn't go anywhere. But I got the attention of some agents. So I got representation as a "director hopeful". And it was actually John Hughes who gave me my big break. I had edited the first two "Home Alone" movies and they wanted to do a third "Home Alone" and Chris Columbus, the director the first two, either wasn't available or interested so it was like - "who we gonna get? Well this guy must know how they work." So it was just good timing, and a touch from above from John Hughes. That was my first film and it went well and it got me in with the people at 20th Century Fox. They introduced me to Drew Barrymore and my next movie was "Never Been Kissed."
LCJ: "The Smurfs" was a major success. Did you think, while you were working on it, that it was going to be big?
RG: We knew there was a lot of Smurf affection in the world. The property has existed in Europe since the 50's and a lot of people there grew-up on the books. Here in the states, of course, we had the Hanna Barbara cartoons in the 80's and 90's. So our hope was that people who grew-up on it were having kids about this time and there might be a nostalgic factor. But the answer is "no", we didn't realize it was going to be a hit. You never know - you just make the best movie you can and hope.
LCJ: I really enjoyed this sequel. Much of the film takes place in Paris. I know you made a lot of the movie in Quebec but you did do some shooting in Paris. What were the highlights of filming there?
RG: I was amazing! There is a general Smurfs love in the French culture - the original language of The Smurfs is french. Because we were so close to the ancestral grounds of The Smurfs were got a lot of access from the French authorities and the people of Paris. We were able to shoot on the stage of the Palais Garnier - the Paris Opera House - which is very rare. That was beautiful and the HUGE highlight. This is an incredibly historical building - where Phantom of the Opera took place. It's an unbelievable architectural treasure - and there we were shooting, and the set was fantastic. We also got to shoot all over Notre Dame Cathedral. There's a sequence where Smurfette, Vexy and Hackus are riding storks and they do a joy ride through the famous flying buttresses of Notre Dame. And there we are - up there with Steadicams. One time on a scout we walked through the attic of Notre Dame, which is an incredibly magical place that most people never get to see - it's not on the tours. It was just a beautiful place to be and we felt very welcomed by the Parisians.
LCJ: In this new story you are kinda breaking new ground by adding new animated characters (Vexy and Hackus) to the Smurf universe. Was that a difficult decision?
RG: No it wasn't. Fans know that Gargamel created Smurfette. So using that as a jumping-off place we reasoned that if Gargamel was able to create Smurfette then he'd be able to create new, Smurf-like characters. He could never make them true-blue Smurfs, and that's his quest throughout the movie - " How am I going to make these creatures true-blue Smurfs so I can extract their essence and continue my magical reign?" We were using mythology directly created by Peyo. We felt he'd be OK with the idea and his family, which still runs the Smurf business, was on board.
LCJ: Speaking of Gargamel, once again Hank Azaria is just incredible. When you originally cast this role did you have him in mind or did he just blow you away when he read for the part?
RG: Actually he never read for the part. We had him in mind all the time. He was a little hesitant to take the part at first. Of course, he's amazing at creating characters and had done so many character voices for The Simpsons. I think the voice came to him first and that was his way into Gargamel. The first week of shooting we were sort of finding the character a little bit, but we all knew when we hit the zone. Hank is an amazing addition to The Smurfs. And he operates on so many levels - he's hilarious for the kids but also just so quick and witty for the adults.
LCJ: Brendan Gleason joins the live-action cast as Patrick's step-father. How important was it to include the relationship storyline between the two of them.
RG: It was the reason to make the movie, to be honest. We always wanted a human element to go along with the Smurf element. We thought that it's a wonderful message to put into the world that families can be many different things. In what Peyo created, Papa is essentially Smurfette's step-father. And in the movie Brendan Gleason's character is Neal Patrick Harris' step-father. And so the two, parallel stories of these two step-fathers trying to re-connect with their step-children just felt like a natural. And I think Brendan did such an amazing job. He's so bright, whenever he comes on screen everything just lights-up. And he's so easy to like. And yet was able to keep it all real. This is a movie with little blue people running around. To find the zone where that all feels normal, and yet the character's motivations seem real and grounded, is a hard target to hit. And he hit naturally.
LCJ: He's especially good in the more dramatic scenes. The voice cast is tremendous: Katy Perry, George Lopez, Christina Ricci, Jeff Foxworthy, Jimmy Kimmel, even Shaq. I bet no one says "no" when you ask if they want to be a Smurf.
RG: We don't get a lot of no's. It's mostly people who do have kids and we try to make it fun. Everyone knows who the Smurfs are. Jimmy Kimmel being Passive-Aggressive Smurf - I think that was an easy "yes" for him. We always try to cook-up new Smurfs for different people to play. It seems to be a fun train to jump on and enjoy the ride.
LCJ: The great Jonathan Winters, who voices Papa Smurf, passed away earlier this year after he had finished his voice work for the film. What do you remember most about working with him.
RG: Working with him is like attending a Jonathan Winters stand-up comedy show. He was fantastic and very focused on the work when it was time to work, but anytime the projector would stop and there would be a moment he would launch into a fantastic story, that would have 3-4 characters, and he'd do all the voices. He was a warm guy, a complicated guy. And he loved, LOVED being Papa Smurf. He was very near the end of his life and I think he felt a little bit forgotten. The opportunity to be Papa Smurf and then have the movie be such a worldwide success meant a lot to him. On this second film, when he was in failing healthy, we told his kids that we didn't want to stress him and not to worry - we could work it out. They said "No, no. This is the most important thing to him. Please come up here, please record him. This is what he loves to do." So it worked out on both ends - we got to work with a legend but also to give him a sense of purpose at the end of his life.
LCJ: It was reported less than two-weeks into shooting "The Smurfs 2" that the 3rd movie was set. Are you committed to directing "The Smurfs 3"?
RG: I have committed. Obviously the movie gods and the audiences have to smile-upon "Smurfs 2" before there will be a "Smurfs 3". So we are in wait-and-see mode. I've had a little interaction with the writers and they're sort of getting the script into shape, but we're not really in the "we're making this movie" mode yet. We'll see how "Smurfs 2" does and we'll go from there.
LCJ: Alright - time for some "Lightning Round" questions: Is your favorite color blue?
RG: It is! I've surfed my whole life, and the ocean is blue, so yes, my favorite color is blue.
LCJ: This is a personal one: Can I make a pitch for a Movie Critic Smurf? - and I'm available to do the voice.
RG: That is a fantastic idea. You know we have to be a little careful how we treat critics because they're not our biggest fan-base, let's say. But I think that's a wonderful idea, so we'll ponder that one.
LCJ: Last question: Who's you're favorite Smurf and why?
RG: Oh, that's like asking who my favorite child is. It's not fair. But I guess I would have to say, in this particular movie, John Oliver as Vanity Smurf is really adult and sly and just freakin' hilarious so, at this moment, having to say something, I'd say it would be Vanity Smurf. He always makes me smile.
Lights-Camera-Jackson: You began your career as a film editor, and have a lot of credits as an editor. How did you go from that to becoming as major Hollywood director?
Raja Gosnell: I was really lucky. I worked with some great people. I had edited a lot of big family comedies and so I was looking for something different - they don't give out Oscars for that sort of thing. I wondered if I should start editing dramas or...should I start directing. My wife and I wrote a couple of screenplays, which actually didn't go anywhere. But I got the attention of some agents. So I got representation as a "director hopeful". And it was actually John Hughes who gave me my big break. I had edited the first two "Home Alone" movies and they wanted to do a third "Home Alone" and Chris Columbus, the director the first two, either wasn't available or interested so it was like - "who we gonna get? Well this guy must know how they work." So it was just good timing, and a touch from above from John Hughes. That was my first film and it went well and it got me in with the people at 20th Century Fox. They introduced me to Drew Barrymore and my next movie was "Never Been Kissed."
LCJ: "The Smurfs" was a major success. Did you think, while you were working on it, that it was going to be big?
RG: We knew there was a lot of Smurf affection in the world. The property has existed in Europe since the 50's and a lot of people there grew-up on the books. Here in the states, of course, we had the Hanna Barbara cartoons in the 80's and 90's. So our hope was that people who grew-up on it were having kids about this time and there might be a nostalgic factor. But the answer is "no", we didn't realize it was going to be a hit. You never know - you just make the best movie you can and hope.
LCJ: I really enjoyed this sequel. Much of the film takes place in Paris. I know you made a lot of the movie in Quebec but you did do some shooting in Paris. What were the highlights of filming there?
RG: I was amazing! There is a general Smurfs love in the French culture - the original language of The Smurfs is french. Because we were so close to the ancestral grounds of The Smurfs were got a lot of access from the French authorities and the people of Paris. We were able to shoot on the stage of the Palais Garnier - the Paris Opera House - which is very rare. That was beautiful and the HUGE highlight. This is an incredibly historical building - where Phantom of the Opera took place. It's an unbelievable architectural treasure - and there we were shooting, and the set was fantastic. We also got to shoot all over Notre Dame Cathedral. There's a sequence where Smurfette, Vexy and Hackus are riding storks and they do a joy ride through the famous flying buttresses of Notre Dame. And there we are - up there with Steadicams. One time on a scout we walked through the attic of Notre Dame, which is an incredibly magical place that most people never get to see - it's not on the tours. It was just a beautiful place to be and we felt very welcomed by the Parisians.
LCJ: In this new story you are kinda breaking new ground by adding new animated characters (Vexy and Hackus) to the Smurf universe. Was that a difficult decision?
RG: No it wasn't. Fans know that Gargamel created Smurfette. So using that as a jumping-off place we reasoned that if Gargamel was able to create Smurfette then he'd be able to create new, Smurf-like characters. He could never make them true-blue Smurfs, and that's his quest throughout the movie - " How am I going to make these creatures true-blue Smurfs so I can extract their essence and continue my magical reign?" We were using mythology directly created by Peyo. We felt he'd be OK with the idea and his family, which still runs the Smurf business, was on board.
LCJ: Speaking of Gargamel, once again Hank Azaria is just incredible. When you originally cast this role did you have him in mind or did he just blow you away when he read for the part?
RG: Actually he never read for the part. We had him in mind all the time. He was a little hesitant to take the part at first. Of course, he's amazing at creating characters and had done so many character voices for The Simpsons. I think the voice came to him first and that was his way into Gargamel. The first week of shooting we were sort of finding the character a little bit, but we all knew when we hit the zone. Hank is an amazing addition to The Smurfs. And he operates on so many levels - he's hilarious for the kids but also just so quick and witty for the adults.
LCJ: Brendan Gleason joins the live-action cast as Patrick's step-father. How important was it to include the relationship storyline between the two of them.
RG: It was the reason to make the movie, to be honest. We always wanted a human element to go along with the Smurf element. We thought that it's a wonderful message to put into the world that families can be many different things. In what Peyo created, Papa is essentially Smurfette's step-father. And in the movie Brendan Gleason's character is Neal Patrick Harris' step-father. And so the two, parallel stories of these two step-fathers trying to re-connect with their step-children just felt like a natural. And I think Brendan did such an amazing job. He's so bright, whenever he comes on screen everything just lights-up. And he's so easy to like. And yet was able to keep it all real. This is a movie with little blue people running around. To find the zone where that all feels normal, and yet the character's motivations seem real and grounded, is a hard target to hit. And he hit naturally.
LCJ: He's especially good in the more dramatic scenes. The voice cast is tremendous: Katy Perry, George Lopez, Christina Ricci, Jeff Foxworthy, Jimmy Kimmel, even Shaq. I bet no one says "no" when you ask if they want to be a Smurf.
RG: We don't get a lot of no's. It's mostly people who do have kids and we try to make it fun. Everyone knows who the Smurfs are. Jimmy Kimmel being Passive-Aggressive Smurf - I think that was an easy "yes" for him. We always try to cook-up new Smurfs for different people to play. It seems to be a fun train to jump on and enjoy the ride.
LCJ: The great Jonathan Winters, who voices Papa Smurf, passed away earlier this year after he had finished his voice work for the film. What do you remember most about working with him.
RG: Working with him is like attending a Jonathan Winters stand-up comedy show. He was fantastic and very focused on the work when it was time to work, but anytime the projector would stop and there would be a moment he would launch into a fantastic story, that would have 3-4 characters, and he'd do all the voices. He was a warm guy, a complicated guy. And he loved, LOVED being Papa Smurf. He was very near the end of his life and I think he felt a little bit forgotten. The opportunity to be Papa Smurf and then have the movie be such a worldwide success meant a lot to him. On this second film, when he was in failing healthy, we told his kids that we didn't want to stress him and not to worry - we could work it out. They said "No, no. This is the most important thing to him. Please come up here, please record him. This is what he loves to do." So it worked out on both ends - we got to work with a legend but also to give him a sense of purpose at the end of his life.
LCJ: It was reported less than two-weeks into shooting "The Smurfs 2" that the 3rd movie was set. Are you committed to directing "The Smurfs 3"?
RG: I have committed. Obviously the movie gods and the audiences have to smile-upon "Smurfs 2" before there will be a "Smurfs 3". So we are in wait-and-see mode. I've had a little interaction with the writers and they're sort of getting the script into shape, but we're not really in the "we're making this movie" mode yet. We'll see how "Smurfs 2" does and we'll go from there.
LCJ: Alright - time for some "Lightning Round" questions: Is your favorite color blue?
RG: It is! I've surfed my whole life, and the ocean is blue, so yes, my favorite color is blue.
LCJ: This is a personal one: Can I make a pitch for a Movie Critic Smurf? - and I'm available to do the voice.
RG: That is a fantastic idea. You know we have to be a little careful how we treat critics because they're not our biggest fan-base, let's say. But I think that's a wonderful idea, so we'll ponder that one.
LCJ: Last question: Who's you're favorite Smurf and why?
RG: Oh, that's like asking who my favorite child is. It's not fair. But I guess I would have to say, in this particular movie, John Oliver as Vanity Smurf is really adult and sly and just freakin' hilarious so, at this moment, having to say something, I'd say it would be Vanity Smurf. He always makes me smile.
7 JAMES FRANCO Films You Need To Watch
- 7 JAMES FRANCO films you need to watch – all women stalk
- Cory Monteith died from an overdose of alcohol and heroin – Farandulista
- Taylor Swift performs with Fall Out Boy’s Patrick Stump – wambie.com
- Kanye West’s A.P.C. line for American apparel sells out in hours – yeeeah!
- Jenny McCarthy joins “The View” – GIRLSTALKINSMACK
- Adam Levine and Behati Prinsloo engaged – Bitten and Bound
- Rihanna feels as if world is not giving her enough attention – BOHOMOTH
- Emma Roberts arrested for domestic violence – allie is wired
- Lady Gaga’s weight gain is today’s entertainment – COLLEGE CANDY
- Jennifer Lopez gets all glammed up – HQ-celebrity.com
Carrie Underwood Wears Shorts Underneath Every Skirt, Every Dress
We like her modesty. Carrie Underwood reveals her style secret. With celebrity wardrobe malfunctions happening here and there, the country music star doesn’t want to add to the statistics. During concerts, awards ceremonies, and literally, you can count on the fact that Carrie is ready for anything, e.g., a snafu.
True to her down-to-earth image, Carrie reveals her trick to be always safe in case something unexpected happens. She shares to Allure magazine:
“Underneath every skirt, every dress, I’m wearing shorts. So that everyone in the world knows, if I ever fell down, nobody would get a peek at anything.”
Well, it’s always good to be well-prepared.
The singer covers the February issue of Allure magazine and looks glamorous in her shots. She wears Gucci, Burberry, and Calvin Klein, but it’s the rock on her ring finger that catches our attention. She’s happily married to hockey player Mike Fisher.
Who Will Sing the Super Bowl National Anthem?
Girl on Fire Alicia Keys will.
The Grammy-winning singer will be performing at the NFL super event for the third time. She will sing the national anthem on February 3 for the opening of the Super Bowl XLVII in New Orleans. She also performed for the NFL back in 2005 and 2008, but this is the first time she will be doing the national anthem.
Music superstars who have sung the national anthem in the past at the Super Bowl include Kelly Clarkson, Mariah Carey, and Whitney Houston. This year’s Super Bowl will also see another superstar, Beyonce. The singer will be performing at the halftime show. She also sang the national anthem back in 2004 in Houston.
One of the most talked-about national anthem performances happened in 2011 in Dallas, when Christina Aguilera got her lyrics mixed up.
Do you think Alicia Keys will pull off one of the best national anthem renditions in Super Bowl history?
The President and First Lady’s Inaugural Ball Dance
The president then continued expressing his appreciation for the lady ‘who inspires’ him ‘everyday.’ Michelle Obama was radiant in a red chiffon gown from Jason Wu and shoes from Jimmy Choo.
It was a sweet, romantic take on an already-iconic dance. We wonder which couple are we going to see dancing next, in four years’ time!
Labels:
Barack Obama,
Celebrity,
Jennifer Hudson
Kate Middleton Prank Call Tragedy: DJ Mel Greig Sues Her Employe

One of the Australian DJs behind the prank call to a London hospital that purportedly prompted one of Kate Middleton's nurses to commit suicide has filed a lawsuit against her employer. The complaint, filed by Mel Greig with Fair Work Australia, accused Southern Cross Austereo of failing to provide a safe workplace.
Steven Lewis, a lawyer for the 2Day radio personality, told E! News: "I can confirm that a general protection application has been filed with Fair Work Australia on behalf of Mel Greig against Southern Cross Austereo. The application alleges Southern Cross Austereo failed to maintain a safe workplace." He added, "The matter will proceed to confidential conciliation under the Fair Work Act."
Jennifer Aniston, Adam Sandler Talk Sex On The First Date

Which begs the question: How does the cast feel about getting down and dirty on the first date? Good idea? Great idea? Or you-gotta-be-crazy bad idea? That's what MTV News wanted to know when we hit the film's red-carpet premiere earlier this week.
"Terrible idea. Don't do it!" Sandler declared. "You got to hold it back."
In fact, Sandler said that if viewers take away one thing from the new comedy, it should be, "Block it! Block it and lock it!"
Aniston agreed. "I don't think it's a good idea," she told us.
Decker, too, approved of that keep-it-in-your-pants counsel, even if her big-screen counterpart did not. "Total no-no. A complete no-no," the model-turned-actress said. "My character, Palmer, did it. Shame on Palmer! Make him wait. That should be something kind of special."
Lest you think everyone involved with "Just Go With It" is advising randy Americans to wait until, say, the second date to bump and grind, one co-star told us that, hey, if it feels good, go for it.
"I think it probably depends. Seems like a good idea at the time, doesn't it?" said Dave Matthews, who has a small but memorable role as an egocentric resort-goer. "If you're both into sleeping together on the first date, I can't think of a reason not to. Good idea!"
Check out everything we've got on "Just Go With It."
Noam Murro to Direct DIE HARD 5

Though Murro is relatively unknown, THR’s report points out that he’s a highly acclaimed commercials director, having been nominated by the DGA for Director of the Year five times, as well as having won the Gold Lion at the Cannes Gold Lion awards. Hit the jump for more on Murro.
While it may seem an odd choice to hire someone with little to no action experience for a Die Hard movie, Michael Bay started in commercials, so I’ll reserve judgment until we see what the guy can do (if he’s winning awards, he’s gotta be doing something right).
There’s currently no word on what the plot of DieImpossible Hard 5 will entail, though Willis previously stated that this film will be “worldwide.” However, so many different rumors about the project have arisen in the last year, there’s no telling what the film actually looks like now. The previous franchise installment, the Len Wiseman-helmed Live Free or Die Hard, was a commercial success (thanks to the PG-13 rating) having grossed $383.5 million worldwide, but was met with a mixed reaction from both audiences and critics.
Labels:
Movies,
watch movie
Venture capitalists give pep-up pill to start-ups in hard times
Mahesh Murthy, a partner at Seedfund, is at one of the nine start-ups his venture capital firm has invested in everyday, to help companies stay afloat in these troubled times.
Murthy and his two other partners would till a few months ago visit these companies only once in more than a month. Now, they visit these firms daily, to guide the start-ups in cutting and saving costs and improving operational efficiencies. The whole idea is to ensure that the start-ups smoothly sail through the economic downturn.
What Murthy and his partners do is a new norm among venture capital funds. "We are now spending 50 per cent of the time with investee companies," said Hemir Doshi, senior investment adviser, IDG Ventures India. "We have to ensure none of them should fall by the way and continue to remain healthy." Visits to companies have now become once a week from once a month earlier, Doshi said. IDG is a $150 million early-stage venture capital firm investing in technology and technology-enabled companies.
"Companies are being advised to let employees travel between cities like Mumbai and Pune or Bangalore and Chennai only by road, and not by air. For travel to distant cities, normal fare airlines are strictly banned," Seedfund's Murthy, told HT. "We tell companies to use only low cost carriers if officials have to travel to distant cities."
Seedfund has made early stage investments in firms like Carwale.com, an online used card market, and online agencyfaqs.com, an online resource for advertising, media and marketing.
According to Doshi, IDG is looking at altering the employee compensation structure by reducing the fixed component and increasing the variable component. "Companies are advised to increase the variable pay to 30-40 per cent wherever possible from 10-20 per cent," he said. Doshi was addressing a gathering of aspiring entrepreneurs organised by Headstart Network Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation that brings together people with start-up ideas and venture capital funds.
Venture capital funds have made sales and revenues top priority at start-ups they have funded and are impressing upon the companies to bring down cash burn as much as possible. Start-ups are being told they need to behave as if they are already in a recession.
Murthy and his two other partners would till a few months ago visit these companies only once in more than a month. Now, they visit these firms daily, to guide the start-ups in cutting and saving costs and improving operational efficiencies. The whole idea is to ensure that the start-ups smoothly sail through the economic downturn.
What Murthy and his partners do is a new norm among venture capital funds. "We are now spending 50 per cent of the time with investee companies," said Hemir Doshi, senior investment adviser, IDG Ventures India. "We have to ensure none of them should fall by the way and continue to remain healthy." Visits to companies have now become once a week from once a month earlier, Doshi said. IDG is a $150 million early-stage venture capital firm investing in technology and technology-enabled companies.
"Companies are being advised to let employees travel between cities like Mumbai and Pune or Bangalore and Chennai only by road, and not by air. For travel to distant cities, normal fare airlines are strictly banned," Seedfund's Murthy, told HT. "We tell companies to use only low cost carriers if officials have to travel to distant cities."
Seedfund has made early stage investments in firms like Carwale.com, an online used card market, and online agencyfaqs.com, an online resource for advertising, media and marketing.
According to Doshi, IDG is looking at altering the employee compensation structure by reducing the fixed component and increasing the variable component. "Companies are advised to increase the variable pay to 30-40 per cent wherever possible from 10-20 per cent," he said. Doshi was addressing a gathering of aspiring entrepreneurs organised by Headstart Network Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation that brings together people with start-up ideas and venture capital funds.
Venture capital funds have made sales and revenues top priority at start-ups they have funded and are impressing upon the companies to bring down cash burn as much as possible. Start-ups are being told they need to behave as if they are already in a recession.
Labels:
VC Funding
IDG Ventures India invests $ 5 million in Myntra.com

Commenting on the funding Mukesh Bansal, Founder, CEO of Myntra.com said, “Myntra.com has found growing acceptance among consumers, campuses and companies looking for creative products, gifts and merchandize. We have enabled creative designers to find a hitherto non existing market. Our combined value proposition is thus both attractive and sustainable which is why we continue to attract investor interest. The investment received will be used to increase our geographical reach, further expansion of our product portfolio and hiring of a few high quality talent to select senior management positions.”
Sudhir Sethi, Founder, Chairman and Managing Director of IDG Ventures said “We found Myntra.com to be significantly ahead of the competition and having a strong and committed founding team, which makes them very well positioned to target accelerated growth in this space.”
In her remarks, Vani Kola, Managing Director for Indo-US Ventures, said, “The initial momentum of Myntra.com clearly points to the latent, untapped potential in the on-demand personalization space. In these 18 months, Myntra.com has demonstrated excellent execution skills which convinced us to invest.” added.
According to Gagan Kumar, Partner, Accel India, ”Our staying invested simply means we continue to remain committed to the business model and vision of Myntra.com in pioneering the on-demand personalization space in India. The addition of two well known funds further adds to the network and expertise that Myntra.com can tap into and this will allow the company to pivot itself even better in the times ahead.”
About IDG Ventures: IDG Ventures is a global network of venture capital funds with over $2 billion under management and a portfolio of over 220 companies built over the last 15 years. IDG Ventures India manages a US$150 Million venture capital fund focused on helping entrepreneurs grow innovative companies on a global basis. IDG Ventures India’s portfolio consists of Manthan Systems, Kreeda Games, ConnectM, iViZ, 3D Solid Compression, Perfint and Aujas Networks.
About NEA-IndoUS Ventures: NEA-Indo US Ventures is a leading venture capital firm which provides early and mid-stage funding to new or growing businesses in India. Our team comprises experienced entrepreneurs and executives who understand the model of incubating ideas and transforming them into successful enterprises. We understand that entrepreneurs are driven by an inner urge to foster change and build enduring companies. These entrepreneurs create path-breaking ideas, enable inorganic growth, and work to transform society for the better. We believe entrepreneurship is not about qualifications or past track records; visionary entrepreneurs can emerge from all walks of life.
About Accel India: Accel India is preferred partner for seed and early stage companies, helping build a vibrant venture capital eco-system in India. Accel’s vision is to create world class organizations out of India working with India’s best entrepreneurs, leveraging Accel’s Global Platform. Accel India’s portfolio of companies includes DoveTail, HolidayIQ, Inbiopro, Kaati Zone, Kirusa, MuSigma, Myntra, Perfint, Sconce and Virident.
About Myntra.com: Myntra.com is the leading on-demand personalization company in India. Myntra.com was started in late 2006 by a group of IIT/IIM graduates and the primary concept of Myntra.com is to provide a platform for personalized products and gifts. During last 18 months, Myntra.com has found a strong appeal among consumers, colleges and companies looking for creative products, gifts and merchandize. Myntra.com has developed India’s largest community of Creative Designers who have published over 20,000 designs in the last 12 months. Leveraging Myntra.com’s strong designer community, Myntra.com is able to help its clients with creative designs for just about any topic, theme or product. Myntra.com has developed a strong supplier base and acquired state-of-the-art technology for on-demand personalization that enables Myntra.com to offer largest portfolio for creative on-demand products.
Labels:
VC Funding


