Mohan Lal Latest Venture

Thiruvananthapuram: Malayalam superstar Mohanlal, whose latest blockbuster "Kurukshetra" tells the tale of the Kargil war, has shown interest in joining the Territorial Army (TA), a voluntary part-time civilian force, as an officer.
A senior official commanding the TA battalion said on condition of anonymity that feelers have been send by the 48-year-old actor, saying that he is interested in joining up.

"The biggest impediment is that the upper age limit for entry into the battalion is 42 and after that if anyone has to be included, it has to be referred at the highest level, which is a tough ask," said the official.

Recently, former India Cricket team captain Kapil Dev was inducted into the Territorial Army after it was cleared at the highest level.

"Veteran theatre and film personality Nana Patekar's application for entry into the battalion is still being considered," said the official.

Mohanlal had his first major role as an army officer in the movie "Keerthi Chakra". Released in 2006, the film was directed by Major Ravi, a former commando with the National Security Guards (NSG).
In August 1991, Ravi headed the team that shot dead Sivarasan, the mastermind behind the killing of former Indian prime minister Rajiv Gandhi.
He quit the army due to his passion for movies.
Ravi, who also directed the superstar in "Kurukshetra", confirmed that Mohanlal is interested in joining the Territorial Army.

"Yesterday only we discussed this and he is very keen. He is now getting his papers ready to be sent for processing. It was after the role he played as a Major in 'Keerthi Chakra' and Lt. Col. in 'Kurukshetra' that he became really interested," said Ravi.
Courtesy Manorama News

Lara Dutta is back in the city for shooting her upcoming David Dhawan film Do Knot Disturb

After having shot for her hit film Partner in Abu Dhabi last year, Bollywood actress Lara Dutta is back in the city for shooting her upcoming David Dhawan film Do Knot Disturb.

“This place is like a lucky mascot as my last release also had many portions shot here and it turned out to be a super-hit. We have been shooting at the Emirates Palace hotel and you just got to see the hotel to believe how wonderful it is,” said Lara.

The actress is also touched by the hospitality of the public there.

“It’s a wonderful place, the people are very warm and it’s quite a film-friendly place as well. I guess with the amount of films being shot here, Abu Dhabi has become the new Switzerland,” said Lara, who has been a part of films like No Entry, Zinda, Jhoom Barabar Jhoom and others.

Diwali gift for Lata Mangeshkar fans

It will be a rare Diwali gift for Lata Mangeshkar fans. An unreleased song of the nightingale - Chanda ki Chandni - that she had sung for the 1997 hit Dil To Pagal Hai, is being repackaged by Yashraj Films for release during the festive season.

For Lata, the news of the song’s release has come as cheerful news, what with arthritis of the knees continuously troubling her.

She happily recalls the song. “It was supposed to be part of Yashji’s Dil To Pagal Hai. But the song didn’t fit into the story. So they took it out. I never thought they’d use it later,” said Lata, who turned 80 recently.

It was Yash Chopra’s idea to release the song.

“When Yash-ji came to know about the unreleased song in their archives, he immediately wanted it released as a Diwali gift for Lata-ji’s fans. So you could say this song Chanda ki Chandni is Yash-ji’s gift to Lata-ji for Diwali,” a source said.

“Yash Chopra calls Lata as his Saraswati Mata and shares an extremely emotional bond with her. The two share the same star sign and their birthday is separated by only a day. They get along like a house on fire. Yash-ji keeps Lata-ji entertained with his jokes. Lata-ji reciprocates with her songs.

“Yashji in fact insists that as long as she is around no one else will sing in his films. That of course has changed now, what with the new guard led by Aditya Chopra opting for other voices,” the source said.

Lata hardly sings film songs nowadays, her last film song was A.R. Rahman’s lullaby Luppa Chuppi for Rang De Basanti (2006).

For Lata, it’s a quiet Diwali at home with the family. No special plans were set after the celebrations earlier this week when her brother Hridaynath Mangeshkar turned 72 Sunday.

“Every year there’s a kind gentleman in Pune who organises a musical event for my brother’s birthday. This year was no different. We’ve all been involved with that until Sunday. So Diwali would be slightly low-key. Of course the children would have their fun with the usual Diwali celebrations,” says Lata.

After Diwali she intends to get her knees operated for arthritis. The operation would be undertaken at the Mangeshkars’ hospital in Pune.

Although her knees give her more trouble these days than she had ever bargained for, the nightingale’s throat continues to be in tremendous shape.

Lata has recorded Sai Baba bhajans with sister Usha Mangeshkar.

On the eve of her 60th birthday, Bollywood ‘dream girl’ Hema Malini

On the eve of her 60th birthday, Bollywood ‘dream girl’ Hema Malini says she is thrilled to play erstwhile Gwalior queen Vijayraje Scindia in the movie Ek Thi Rani Aisi Bhi, but says unlike her other films the role needed a lot of preparation and she had to spend considerable time with the Scindia family. “I’m honoured to be playing the Rajmata. Do you know she was the founder of the BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) and today I’m a proud member of the BJP and getting a chance to play her on screen,” Hema said. “I think this role requires a fair amount of preparation. Something I haven’t done for too many of my characters except Razia Sultan and Meera. Both were very close to my heart. And now I think this will be the third role that’s very close to my heart,” she added. To be directed by Gulbahar Singh, Ek Thi Rani Aisi Bhi went on the floor Tuesday. It will be made in close collaboration with the Scindias. “Though I didn’t know the great lady personally, I’ve known her late son Madhavrao Scindia (late Congress leader) and her daughter Vasundhara (BJP leader and Rajasthan chief minister) quite well through my parliamentary work. “In fact, I had been to Gwalior last year in summer with my daughter Ahana for a dance performance on the invitation of Madhavraoji’s son Jyotiraditya Scindia. My colleagues in parliament were outraged. ‘How could you go at his invitation when he’s from the Congress?’ But I think culture and art should be put above politics, don’t you think?” “I hope I can carry off the Rajmata’s royal dignity and confidence,” Hema said. Aishwarya Rai was supposed to play Gayatri Devi, the Rani of Jaipur in J.P. Dutta’s biopic, but the project was shelved

Mixed day for india

Even though Indian managed a fight back through tail enders but really the failure of top order continues.Having scored 68 runs with out loss of wicket India went to third day on a confident note with both Sehwag and Gambhir in full flow.But unfortunately both opener failed to capitalize on the start they got on second day ,both went very cheaply.Having lossed both the opener it was up to the highly rated Indian middle order to take India forward.But they failed again,even though Dravid and ganguly fighted out,with Dravid scoring 54 runs and Ganguly on 47, the other fammed middle players like Sachin and Laxman failed again.

Yes,the condition was tough,but after having lots of experience over the years the middle order should have contributed more to the cause. Sachin falling to slower one and Laxman knicking one to wicket keeper for a duck made things really difficult until came Harbhajan and Zaheer.Both the bowlers took attack to the Aussies and they added very crucial runs with Harbhajan went for well played 54 and a impressive 35 not out from zaheer.If they havent put on a partnership things would have gone unglier for Indian.Now having scored 313 runs with 2 wickets in hand India looking for a fight back.Still with 117 runs behind India another 50 or 60 runs to stay on the hunt.

Kelly

Kelly got a amount of $ 3.4 million as an award against his former tour promoter and he asking judge from to help him collect.

R. Kelly Touring, which represents the singer, filed court documents on Monday seeking a judge’s confirmation of the award an arbitrator granted against Georgia-based Rowe Entertainment last month.

Kelly’s company claimed that Rowe Entertainment and owner Leonard Rowe failed to pay him in full for shows scheduled for late last year and early 2008. An arbitrator agreed with Kelly’s claims. Documents show Rowe disputed the arbitration, but did not offer any defense during a recent hearing.

An after-hours phone message left for Rowe’s attorney in Atlanta was not returned Monday.

Kelly won three Grammys in 1997 for the song I Believe I Can Fly, but is known for his sexually charged music. He was acquitted earlier this year of child pornography charges and is scheduled to release a new album before year’s end.

Singer Ne-Yo recently won a $700,000 judgment against Rowe after he sued because he was dropped from Kelly’s tour after only two shows.

Important series for India

Indian now currently placed at number 3 behind south africa.They have great chance to move to second spot if they manage to win against Australia with a margin of 3-0,3-1 or 2-0.India team which currently 29 points behind aussies have great chance if they beat them by margin of two matches or more.

However scoreline like 1-0,2-1will only make India to close the gap between them and south African’s they wont go ahead of them.But if a win of 4-0 will not only make India to go ahead of south Africa,they can even close the gap to 7 points with Australia.But if Aussies wins the series by 2 or more scoreline it will widen the Gap or if they make 4-0 it will make India almost an impossible to task to catch the top spot.

The series is also an important one for India’s big three-Sehwag(10th), VVS Laxman (15th) and Rahul Dravid (16th) a good in the series will see them improve their ranking.It also important series for Indian Legend Tendulkar which will make him break into the top 20 once again now he is currently in 23 spot.

Important series for India

Indian now currently placed at number 3 behind south africa.They have great chance to move to second spot if they manage to win against Australia with a margin of 3-0,3-1 or 2-0.India team which currently 29 points behind aussies have great chance if they beat them by margin of two matches or more.

However scoreline like 1-0,2-1will only make India to close the gap between them and south African’s they wont go ahead of them.But if a win of 4-0 will not only make India to go ahead of south Africa,they can even close the gap to 7 points with Australia.But if Aussies wins the series by 2 or more scoreline it will widen the Gap or if they make 4-0 it will make India almost an impossible to task to catch the top spot.

The series is also an important one for India’s big three-Sehwag(10th), VVS Laxman (15th) and Rahul Dravid (16th) a good in the series will see them improve their ranking.It also important series for Indian Legend Tendulkar which will make him break into the top 20 once again now he is currently in 23 spot.

Jankovic The New world No 1

Jankovic is the new number one in the world,this was after william’s second round loss to china’s Li Na last week in Stuttgart. Now Jelena Jankovic was officially confirmed as the new world N.O in the world replacing Serena Williams from the top.

Serena held the honour for last four weeks after defeating Jankovic in the US Open final.However William’s loss in stuttgart made Jelena the new world number one.

Jankovic went on to win in Stuttgart, clinching back-to-back titles following her victory in Beijing a week earlier.

When she was asked about it, she said”I’m happy the hard work I’ve put in is paying off,”.She furthur added that”I’ve been playing very well since the US Open and my confidence is quite high. My main goal is to finish the season at number one.”

Lata didi

A couple of hundred patients and employees of the Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital here chose a novel way to join millions of music lovers in showering best wishes on living legend Lata Mangeshkar to mark her 80th birthday - they wrote their hearts out in fond one-liners on a big-size board and sent its photograph to the nightingale.

The patients, including participants of a healthy heart-walkathon comprising discharged hospital inmates and employees wrote beautiful birthday wishes for Lata-didi in their own language with some of them drawing up tiny pictures of flowers or caricature of the world’s most loved singer,” said a hospital source.

The most touching among the wishes was perhaps a line plucked from a famous Lata Mangeshkar song from a Hindi film Dil Apna aur Preet Parayee that goes …Tumhe aur kya doon mein dil ke sivay, tumko hamari umar lag jaye (What else can we give you other than our heart may our remaining years be added to your life). The poetic wish was signed by a few seriously ill patients, the source said.

The hospital was constructed five years ago with funds donated by the singer in the memory of her father music maestro Deenanath Mangeshkar.

Britney selling her lucky house

Pop singer Britney Spears is selling her home that has not been very lucky for her.

Spears has put her six bedroom mansion home in the Los Angeles suburbs on the market for 4 million pounds ($7.9 million) after living there for less than two years. She had to leave the house twice earlier this year to be forcibly hospitalised, reports said.

Her father Jamie Spears, who remains in legal control of her until Dec 31, sought permission from a court June this year to sell the home.

Spears is also rumoured to be viewing a new home in Los Angeles.

Harry-puttar

Hari Puttar - A Comedy of Terrors, which Hollywood studio Warner Bros alleged was a copyright violation of their Harry Potter franchise, bears no similarity to the English film series and is actually the story of a lonely kid played by Zain Khan.

The film, which releases Friday, is directed by Lucky Kohli and Rajesh Bajaj. Produced by Mirchi Movies, it also stars talented Sarika along with Jackie Shroff.

“It is a fun film and a family entertainer. The film has nothing in common with the Harry Potter franchise as the story suggests. The Hari Puttar name has been in the news and has appeared at places for the last 18 months,” Munish Purii, COO of Mirchi Movies, said.

The story seems to be loosely based on hit Hollywood series Home Alone. It revolves around 10-year-old Hari Prasad Dhoonda (Zain Khan) or Hari Puttar, as he is fondly called.

Hari’s father (Zakir Khan) is a professor and is assigned to work on a secret project at a remote location in Britain. So Hari moves there from India with his father and mother (Sarika).

Hari’s father has access to confidential information that is stored on a chip and safely kept at his house.

Within days of their arrival in London, Hari’s aunt (Lilette Dubey) and uncle DK (Jackie Shroff) visit them with their children. The kids of DK’s boss also accompany them.

Now, accommodating so many children in the house becomes a problem. At one point everything goes for a spin for Hari - not only he is thrown out of his room, he is also ragged and ridiculed by all the other kids.

Hari suddenly feels unwanted. But then when people try and steal his dad’s secret chip, he displays valour and wit that shock everyone.

“It talks about the freedom of a child when he is left alone in the house with his cousin and the funny situations that follow when two burglars try getting into the house to get hold of a chip that his father has been secretly working on,” said Purii.

So far very few children’s films have made it big at the box office. But the legal controversy surrounding the movie may help draw some curious moviegoers.

Britney spears come back

Pop star Britney Spears, who is working on a comeback, will release her sixth album Circus on her birthday.

The album will be out on Dec 1. For the album, she has collaborated with Swedish pop producer Max Martin with whom she had worked on her earlier hits. Martin is considered a genius by many.

Both Martin and Spears had struck gold with her earlier hits like Baby, One More Time, Lucky and Oops! I Did It Again.

Spears is also catching up with her mom and celebrated her two sons’ birthdays at a family gathering. According to thesun.co.uk, Spears’ elder boy Sean Preston turned three and her younger one Jayden James had turned two just two days earlier.

Spears, 26 and her mother Lynne, 53, watched the two kids as they played with their gifts in their Los Angeles home.

, who is working on a comeback, will release her sixth album Circus on her birthday.

The album will be out on Dec 1. For the album, she has collaborated with Swedish pop producer Max Martin with whom she had worked on her earlier hits. Martin is considered a genius by many.

Both Martin and Spears had struck gold with her earlier hits like Baby, One More Time, Lucky and Oops! I Did It Again.

Spears is also catching up with her mom and celebrated her two sons’ birthdays at a family gathering. According to thesun.co.uk, Spears’ elder boy Sean Preston turned three and her younger one Jayden James had turned two just two days earlier.

Spears, 26 and her mother Lynne, 53, watched the two kids as they played with their gifts in their Los Angeles home.

Britney in charity

Britney Spears and her family have donated an autographed portrait of the pop star for charity, with a starting bid of $10,000 on an auction site.

The five-by-four-foot oil painting of the singer was given to the Los Angeles-based Promises Foundation, which provides behavioural health services to low-income women and their children.

“The Spears family gave us this painting out of their generosity,” the organisation’s director Lisa Rogg was quoted saying. “It was their idea for the auction.”

The website’s page shows several photos of Spears standing next to the artwork, as well as a letter of authenticity from her father Jamie.

The letter states: “I hereby verify that the portrait of my daughter, Britney, has been in our home since it was completed by the Daniel Maltman Studio.”

Pop star Pink has reportedly turned to Scientology

Pop star Pink has reportedly turned to Scientology to help her move on after her split from husband Carey Hart.

The pair’s two-year marriage ended earlier this year and friends reveal the singer has sought comfort from pal Juliette Lewis, who is introducing her to the controversial religion, reports said.

“Pink is in the beginning stages of checking out the religion, but she has taken to it and she wants to get more involved, a source said.

The religion is also popular with superstars Lisa Marie Presley, Tom Cruise and John Travolta.

Gwen Stefani is all set to design uniforms for the female staff of a top hotel chain

Singer turned designer Gwen Stefani is all set to design uniforms for the female staff of a top hotel chain.

Gwen, the founder of the L.A.M.B. label, has announced that she will launch an exclusive line of work-wear for W Hotels.

Starting this autumn, female staff members at the luxury hotel chain’s Living Room lounges will be outfitted in the custom L.A.M.B. design. And Gwen’s touch is instantly apparent: the black jersey dresses are combined with a fitted ’80s silhouette and asymmetrical styling with ’60s seam detailing and side vents, reports said.

When creating the design, she knew it would have to not just look good, but be functional for active employees.

Gwen said: “I wanted to design a super cute dress that I would be excited to have in my own closet and approached it in the same way I think about my clothing for a tour.”

She added: “We’ve designed a sexy and comfortable outfit for these women to wear out on their own stage every night.”

Indian rock music is superficial’

Acclaimed lyricist Javed Akhtar says Indian rock music is very superficial, with most songs having archaic lyrics, but he has experimented with words for his son Farhan Akhtar’s acting debut Rock On to make the songs interesting.

“In India, rock music is a very shallow and superficial genre. They dress and style themselves like American rockers but the words and lyrics are archaic and obsolete. The words in an average Indi-Rock number revert to trite filmy clich s like balma, baliye and mahiya,” Akhtar said.

“When they came to me to write lyrics for my son Farhan in Rock On, I wasn’t really sure I could pull it off. I had never done a rock album before and I’m not familiar with the genre.

“The language in Dil Chahta Hai was that of traditional lyrics… zamana, dewaana. In Rock On, where Farhan makes his debut as an actor, I’ve moved completely away from the traditional lyrics,” he added.

“In Rock On, I wanted to create a new idiom that I don’t think I had been able to do in Dil Chahta Hai in spite of its modern context and characters. There I was still falling back on traditional thoughts and rhymes.

“In Rock On I’ve experimented with words and thoughts. For example, songs about dreamers have been done to death. I’ve used the parallel of ‘Sinbad The Sailor’ to bring out the theme of derring-do. Then I was asked to write a song about an individual’s losses in a week. Writing about a laundry bill, denim jacket, chandi ka ring… you can’t use angoothee for ring… This is the lingo of rock,” the lyricist said.

Asked about Farhan’s performance in the film, Akhtar said, “I can’t separate the father from the critic. But yes, Farhan has acted very well. As for his singing, I leave that to the audience to decide.”

Bollywood superstar in another contreversy

" Punjab government didnt send any report to the union Health Ministry," this was statement given by the punjab health minister Laxmu chawla,after a controversial report that Bollywood super star was given a notice by the union health ministry,following the punjab government complaint on smoking in khalsa college in Amritsar.Added to the above statement given by Mr Chawla he also said "i dont know were these reports came.But we didnt failed any complaint against khan"

"I don't know where these reports are coming from. We have not filed any complaint (against Khan). I have again just checked with the health director. I cannot even say anything about whether he smoked there or not," Chawla said.

When asked with the college funtionaries,said they were shown a picture of super star Khan was smoking.But they coudnt recognise whether the backgroung was from there college.Many said its not from there college.Anyway no sikh organistion didnt make any protest against khan.

Dr. Dre’s son Andre Young Jr. found dead

Andre Romelle Young Jr., the son of Dr. Dre has been found dead. His body was found in his Woodland Hills, California, home Saturday morning. As yet the cause of death of the 20-year old is still not known.

An autopsy has been conducted but the results of a toxicology report are still pending. Young was found in his bed by his mother Saturday morning, she tried to wake him but Young was unresponsive. She then called the paramedics; they tried their best to revive him but was produced dead at the scene.

In a statement made by the coroner’s spokesperson, Young had spent the previous evening with his friends. His mother had told police that her son had returned home by 5.30 Saturday morning; she then said that she had heard him in his bedroom. Police do not suspect foul play.

Dr. Dre’s spokesperson has said “Dr. Dre is mourning the loss of his son Andre Young Jr. Please respect his family’s grief and privacy at this time.” Dr. Dre has seen huge support on his MySpace page.

Steve Fossett:mystery continues

Personal items thought to belong to Steve Fossett have been found by a hiker in eastern California. Among the items found was a pilot’s license, which is assumed to belong to Fossett, who went missing more than a year ago while on a solo flight.

Preston Morrow, the hiker who found the items said that along with the pilot’s license, there was also a Federal Aviation Administration identity card as well as a third ID and $1,105. The items were found tangle in a bush just west of Mammoth Lakes.

Search teams have now been dispatched to the area, as well as air and ground effort. Marrow did say that there was not any sign of human remains.

Steve Fossett:mystery continues

Personal items thought to belong to Steve Fossett have been found by a hiker in eastern California. Among the items found was a pilot’s license, which is assumed to belong to Fossett, who went missing more than a year ago while on a solo flight.

Preston Morrow, the hiker who found the items said that along with the pilot’s license, there was also a Federal Aviation Administration identity card as well as a third ID and $1,105. The items were found tangle in a bush just west of Mammoth Lakes.

Search teams have now been dispatched to the area, as well as air and ground effort. Marrow did say that there was not any sign of human remains.

Dance With Stars

Kim Kardashian was the third celebrity to booted from Dancing with the Stars, following her lackluster rumba routine. Kardashian’s and her professional dancing partner, Mark Ballas, received a score of 17 out of a possible 30.

Brooke Burke and partner Derek Hough wowed the judges yet again, and have remained in the top spot. The pair of them tied this week with Warren Sapp and partner Kym Johnson, both couples scored 24 out of 30.

The other celebrities that remain in the show are, Toni Braxton, Maurice Greene, Rocco DiSpirito, Lance Bass, Misty May-Treanor, Susan Lucci, Cody Linley and Cloris Leachman.

Janet Jackson was all set for her concert on Monday but became ill

Janet Jackson was all set for her concert on Monday but became ill and had to be rushed to hospital. She had fallen ill just before the concert was due to start.

The singer had to cancel the concert which was due to take place in Montreal on Monday. A statement made by W&W Public Relations, has said that she “got suddenly ill” during a sound check before the concert.

The statement also said that Janet Jackson is being monitored and hopes to be able to reschedule her show. As yet there is no information as to what the illness is.

Steelers beat Ravens 23-20

Despite their injuries Steelers managed to beat the Ravens 23-20. It was a shock that the Pittsburgh Steelers were able to pull out a win, considering they played terrible for most of the three quarters. The win makes them first place in the AFC North.

The NFL game was physical, but you would expect that when playing the Baltimore Ravens. The game was a costly one for the Ravens, Kendall Simmons tore his Achilles and Rashard Mendenhall suffered a fractured shoulder.

At the end of the game, you could see that the Steelers were so beaten up. They finished the game with just one healthy running back, Mewelde Moore.

Sexy actress Heather Locklear has been arrested

Sexy actress Heather Locklear has been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of controlled substances, by the California Highway Patrol. The star was booked around 8 p.m on Saturday night in Montecito.

Locklear, is no longer in custody, but was arrested after a member of the public called 911 to report that a woman was driving erratically. This is according to Tom Marshall, a spokesman for the CHP.

Heather Locklear was showing strange behavior, she was driving back and forth over a pair of sunglasses that was on the pavement. She then left the parking lot, stopped her car and then stumbled onto the street and into the traffic lane. Locklear was tested for alcohol and drugs, the actress tested negative for alcohol. The drugs tests will return in a few days.

Entourage recap

The start of the Entourage Season 5 episode 4 opener was one much like everyone’s lives, the morning hangover. The writers did not go over the top with this episode, instead they went for the subtle way, and I have to say they pulled it off.

Johnny Drama it seems is on a mission to wreck his life, or his liver. He is seen in the back of his SUV drinking a huge amount of airplane bottles of alcohol.

He thinks that he has good reason to be going down this path; he is still distraught over losing his French paramour Jacqueline. Well he be able to get over this, or will he get even worse?

Paul Newman dies of cancer

Paul Newman famous for playing Cool Hand Luke has died of cancer; he lost his battle aged 83. Newman died on Friday while at his home in Westport, Connecticut.

Paul Newman also starred in a number of other movie roles, from The Hustler, ‘Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and The Sting. Newman also did a lot of charity work and was a keen motorsport fan.

Paul Newman was born on January 26, 1925, in Shaker Heights, Ohio. In his long career in movies, Newman received 10 Academy Award nominations. Paul Newman is survived by his wife, actress Joanne Woodward, and five children.

Blessthefall, Beau Bokan

If you are a fan of Blessthefall, then you will be pleased to hear that their first track To Hell and Back from their untitled album will feature the vocal talents of Beau Bokan. The song is about those times when your back is against the wall and the odds are stacked against you.

With Beau Bokan as the front man and an awesome new single and album, it shows that Blessthefall are moving forward since former frontman, Craig Mabbit left the band. This happened in the middle of their 07 European tour, during this time the band seemed to go on autopilot.

The band said that it was not an easy task finding a replacement for Mabbit, but it seems that Bokan is able to sing as well as rock. The most important thing is fitting in with the band, and it seems as if they have gelled.

Emraan Hashmi promotes Raaz - The Mystery Continues on Radio One 94.3 FM pictures,Raaz - The Mystery Continues event photo gallery,Emraan Hashmi at Radio One 94.3 FM for Raaz - The Mystery Continues images,Raaz - The Mystery Continues stills

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2

It's been three years since the lifelong quartet of best friends established the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants. Now they face the biggest change of all: college. Carmen is studying drama at Yale, Tibby is learning to direct at NYU, Bridget is getting to know her grandmother for the first time, and Lena is torn between two romances. Through it all, the girls maintain their bond despite the distance between them, and use their friendship (and pants) as a source of strength in the face of their obstacles.

Three Good Reasons

• 1 When the last movie came out, it was all about seing Rory (Gilmore) and Joan (of Arcadia). Now it's all about (Ugly) Betty and Serena (van der Woodsen). It's rare indeed that the stars of four different hit TV shows can share the big screen in such perfect harmony.
• 2 Unlike most movies involving teenage girls, the characters in this one come in varieties other than "friendless outcast" or "backstabbing harpy."
• 3 Returning to the story of these girls is like wearing your favorite pair of jeans straight out of the dryer: fresh and familiar at the same time.

Bet You Didn't Know

The film's director, Moroccan-American Sanaa Hamri, knows all about girl power -- she is one of the few women to have achieved success in the music video industry, directing such videos as Mariah Carey's "Crybaby" and Prince's "Musicology.

Swing Vote

Bud Johnson doesn't have much to show for his life. He's a good-hearted bum, a single dad whose only loves in life are beer and his twelve-year-old daughter, Molly. Molly is the woman of the house, more grown up than her dad will ever be, and hoping to make a difference in the world. Little does she know that she's about to make American history. Thanks to her Election Day mischief, her father ends up being the owner of the one single vote that will decide the next President of the United States.

Three Good Reasons

• 1 After being something of a slacker himself for a while, Kevin Costner recently earned some attention by playing a killer in the chilling Mr. Brooks. But now he's back where he always shined brightest: in a comedy.
• 2 Attention "Lost" junkies: remember Annie, Ben's cute little childhood sweetheart? If so, you'll recognize Madeline Carroll in he role as adorable overachiever Molly.
• 3 Frasier vs. Shooter? When your choices for President are Kelsey Grammer and Dennis Hopper, America wins either way.

Bet You Didn't Know

Kevin Costner's own reputation for independence is well earned. In 1982, he was cast in a bit role opposite Jessica Lange in Frances, but he refused to say his single line of dialogue, feeling that it wasn't true to his character. By doing so, he kept himself from earning a highly sought-after Screen Actors Guild card.

Step Brothers

Brennan is a spoiled, immature, middle-aged loser who still sponges off his mom. Dale is a spoiled, immature, middle-aged loser who still sponges off his dad. When the parents of these two socially- challenged slackers fall in love and get married, the results are very anti-Brady. Brennan and Dale hate each other at first sight (and to be honest no one else likes them much either). But unless the two stepbrothers find a way to get along, get a job, and get out of the house, their parents' marriage may be doomed.

Three Good Reasons

• 1 Did Talladega Nights rock your world? If so, this is a no-brainer for you, as it reunites the two stars (Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly) with the director, Adam McKay.
• 2 After having massive successes with the R-rated Knocked Up and Superbad, producer Judd Apatow is out to prove that middle-aged guys can swear just as hilariously as the kids.
• 3 The movie will serve as a real ego boost for those 40-year-olds out there who live with just their moms.

Bet You Didn't Know

Director Adam McKay's daughter Pearl, the foul-mouthed toddler from the viral video "The Landlord," recently came out of retirement to wish her dad's website, FunnyOrDie.com, a happy birthday.

Mamma Mia!

Swedish songsters ABBA inspire a musical feast that's both sweet and surprisingly spicy. Sophie Sheridan is about to be married to her true love, Sky, but has no father to give her away. What's a bride to do but go poking through Mom's past for answers? In the pages of an old diary she finds a shocking secret: any of three men could be her father. She sends a letter to each one, hoping to discover who has the right to escort her down the aisle... and throwing a big fat Greek monkey wrench into Mom's life.

Three Good Reasons

* 1 The legendary, luminous Meryl Streep scores points for 50+ women everywhere by stealing the show from her equally gorgeous onscreen daughter (Amanda Seyfried of Mean Girls).
* 2 Fans of the stage show may have thought there was no way to improve on it, but the Greek scenery (including Pelion and Skopelos) provides a breathtaking backdrop for the tale.
* 3 This is the type of musical where you go into the theater humming the songs. So grab your friends and go prove to the world that disco never died.

Bet You Didn't Know

The region of Mt. Pelion, where parts of this movie were filmed, has also been graced by another legendary wedding. Tradition names it as the site of the marriage of Thetis and Peleus, parents of the mythical hero Achilles.

X-Files

We're afraid that's classified information. But we can tell you what it's not about. It's not about bees. It's not about oil. It's not about brain implants or stolen ova. It's not about a virus. It's not about shapechanging alien bounty hunters. We're also pretty sure it's not about chimps in space. But that's really all we know. Rumors say it's a nice, tidy, one-shot storyline in the suspense-thriller genre, and that Mulder and Scully's son will be involved in some way. But don't trust us on that. Trust no one.

Three Good Reasons

• 1 Newcomers to the X-Files universe won't be lost, as the story was written to be accessible and enjoyable to those who have never watched the show.
• 2 Mulder and Scully, together! It's refreshing to see a romance in the movies that is a true affair of the intellect and a meeting of minds. (Plus, there's been talk that they make out!)
• 3 Some intriguing new cast members -- including Billy Connellly, Xzibit, and Amanda Peet -- will be mingling with some old friends from the show, including fan favorite Mitch Pileggi.

Bet You Didn't Know

The title of course comes from the poster of a flying saucer that Mulder had on the wall of his basement office. While they were shooting the series, the set decorators had to replace the poster constantly because it kept getting stolen right off the wall. Props from Mulder's office were displayed at the Hollywood Entertainment Museum until it closed in July 2006. Could the Cigarette Smoking Man have had something to do with shutting it down?

This month release: Space Chimps

f Ham III weren't the grandson of the first hominid ever to travel in space, there is no way he would have been chosen to go on this prestigious NASA mission along with the heroic Titan and the courageous Lt. Luna. These three hapless chimps are sent to retrieve an errant space probe, but instead find themselves caught up in the plight of a peaceful planet that has been taken over by the evil overlord Zartog. Will Ham III discover his hidden hero genes and help save the day?

Three Good Reasons

• 1 Oh come on, people! It's chimps... in space. Do you really need two other reasons?
• 2 If you're sad that you didn't catch SNL's Andy Samberg kickin' it with part two of The Chronic(WHAT?)cles of Narnia, you'll hear his famous slacker wit in the voice of space ape, Ham III.
• 3 The film is produced by John H. Williams (Shrek) and Barry Sonnenfeld (Men in Black), so they've got the whole "funny animated aliens" thing pretty well covered.

Bet You Didn't Know

The fictional Ham III's real-live grandpa was in space for less than 17 minutes, and even in that short span of time he was nearly burned to death, depressurized, and/or drowned. The chimp was saved only by his space suit (seemingly just about the only thing on the mission that actually worked).

Charlie Barlette-A Review

"Don't Leave the Kids Alone!" Here comes a film that was actually released last year in Hollywood. It's called Charlie Bartlett, directed by Jon Poll.

You may even find it on DVD now. But whether you catch it at home, or at the cinemas, I think you could consider watching it for sure.

Charlie Bartlett is a delinquent teenager and a rich brat. He is the only son, whose father is serving time in the prison. He's been kicked out of every school for some nefarious activity or the other.

It's a story like this that reminds you how important it was to be popular while growing up. Peer pressure is truly the doom of childhood.

Robert Downey Jr plays an alcoholic principal of the school that Charlie studies in. He becomes a self-appointed psychiatrist for the entire campus. Charlie begins to peddle anti-depressants and other drug addicts. He is also dating the principal's little daughter.

The principal of course will tolerate none of that. Eventually, there is an anti-establishment outcry in the school.

The film, set in the early '80s, carefully examines the lives of the wayward young. It tells you that they're also quite often, misunderstood.

The boy Anton Yelchin, to be honest, didn't impress me so much. But then with Robert Downey Jr around, it's difficult not to be convinced.

Another aspect of this film is that it gives you a peek into the culture of parenting in America, or the West, as it were. It's disturbing as a subject.

I don't know about you, but I felt the same watching the Oscar favourite Juno a few months back. Now that was about a teenaged girl who wants to bear a child.

You can't be taken so seriously when you're so young. And don't get me wrong. There is no question of being conservative here. Children no matter how old, must be treated as equals. But that doesn't mean treating them as adults. They may not know better.

Get Smart-A Review

Maxwell Smart -- a gung-ho but bumbling analyst for U.S. intelligence agency CONTROL -- has always dreamed of being a superstar field operative like Agent 23. When the crime syndicate KAOS exposes the identities of CONTROL's agents, the Chief is forced to make Smart's day by sending him on a mission to thwart a plot for world domination. To help him out, the Chief partners the overeager Smart with sexy veteran Agent 99. Will her brains and beauty, along with his... enthusiasm... be enough to save

Three Good Reasons

• Steve Carell: action hero! Michael Scott of The Office has been writing himself into adventure scripts for years -- now it's time to live the fantasy. Coming soon: Threat Level: Midnight!
• Anne Hathaway had to take a walk on the cinematic dark side to shake her Princess Diaries image, but in this movie she's back to making us laugh. Her wry deadpan style is an ideal fit for the stylish and unflappable Agent 99.
• This movie contains enough explosions, shattering glass, tuxedos and world domination plots to meet your recommended summer allowance of spy movie mayhem.

Bet You Didn't Know

As a child, Steve Carell used to hide in the hall closet patiently, just for the pleasure of jumping out and startling his father when he came to hang up his coat. Every. Single. Time.

Viewers Rating

B+

Face Of Shiseido drops Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie has been dropped from Japanese cosmetics giant 'Shiseido's ad-campaign.

The company now wants a new face for its products and has in fact roped in British supermodel model Agyness Deyn to fill in the 33-year-old actress' place.

It was in 2006 that Jolie was signed as the brand's ambassador, and after two years of appearing in commercials and print ads for Shiseido, she has been replaced by Deyn.

Reports suggest that Deyn would be representing the company as its spokesmodel in their Fall 2008 Maquillage ad campaign.

Meanwhile, the 'Tomb Raider' star has also parted ways with fashion house St. John last month after a three-year contract with the company.

Journey To Center Of The Earth

Trevor is used to being laughed at. He's the type of guy whose colleagues use finger-quotes when describing him as a "scientist." But the joke's about to be on those guys, because apparently the center of the earth contains fish and dinosaurs and stuff! When Trevor's brother disappears, the only clues to finding him are the notes he scrawled in a copy of Jules Verne's classic adventure novel. Trevor takes a leap of faith and journeys to the uncharted worlds beneath the surface in search of his missing bro.

Three Good Reasons

• Witness moviemaking history! This is the first narrative live-action movie to be shot in digital 3D, and the dazzling special effects make full use of the technology.
• for a great family bonding session, as the mix of action and humor will appeal to adults and older kids alike.
• It's possible that Tomb of the Dragon Emperor didn't quite satisfy your need to see scary things chasing Brendan Fraser.

Bet You Didn't Know It

The former Soviets are the ones who have actually explored furthest into the earth's crust, with the 8-mile-deep Kola Superdeep Borehole, started back in 1970. Sorry, no dinosaurs.
The most exciting thing they discovered was some trapped subterranean water and hydrogen gas.

Disney's Next Plan-A Camp Rock

Tweens ready for another summer at “Camp Rock” should start packing their bags, as a sequel is in the works. Pending a script, production will begin in spring or summer 2009, according to Hollywood repoorter .

The Disney Channel original movie starred rockers the Jonas Brothers and was a showcase for Access Hollywood rising star Demi Lovato, widely touted as the next Miley Cyrus. Both are launching their own TV shows on the network, “J.O.N.A.S.” and “Welcome to Mollywood,” respectively.

The “Camp” premiere was a hit last weekend, scoring 8.9 millions views on Friday and another 3.6 million on ABC on Saturday night, making it Friday’s highest rated show and the year’s biggest cable entertainment program.

But it pales in comparison to the channel’s “High School Musical 2,” which scored a staggering 17.3 million viewers last year and has its own sequel due in October.

Next Month Big Release

HANCOCK


What happens when a wisecracking, homeless, alcoholic superhero meets a determined PR exec? Hancock, who just saved the life of idealistic Ray Embrey, is about to find out. Embrey is determined to rehabilitate the down-and-out Hancock, clean up his image, and make him into a true hero the world can adore. Embrey's wife Mary, on the other hand, isn't so sure it's a worthy endeavor, particularly when Hancock starts hitting on her in the midst of his big comeback. The "Big Blue Boy Scout" he ain't.

Three Good Reasons

• Will Smith and Jason Bateman are both masters of dry comic timing. This is the first time we've had the chance to see them play off of each other, and the results should be classic.
• The market's a bit flooded right now with weighty epics of tortured-yet-beloved superheroes... so it's a bit refreshing to get a look at great power without great responsibility.
• It's the Fourth of July weekend. That means three things: cookouts, fireworks, and Will Smith blockbusters.

Bet You Didn't Know

That poor stranded gray whale that Hancock tosses back into the ocean in the trailer? The one that lands on a sailboat? That whale would weigh about the same as two city buses (with passengers).

Summer Special

WANTED


This Month's Hot Release

Wesley Gibson is living a pathetic, bleak, colorless cubicle existence until his father's death sets into motion a series of stunning revelations. Revelation One: a super-hot chick is actually checking him out. Two: the aforementioned chick, "Fox," worked with Dad, who by the way was a superstar assassin answering to a supernatural authority. Three: Wesley has inherited Dad's special talents, which unsurprisingly involve killing people. Four: Dad was murdered, and it's Wesley's job to avenge him and set things right. Unless, of course, he's really attached to that day job.

Three Good Reasons

• 1An ordinary desk monkey, approached by a deadly babe and told that he has a special destiny? Obeying the instructions of a sonorous guru to protect a world oblivious to its enslavement by a higher power? Nah... that'll never work.
• 2We know Angelina Jolie is a great mom, and a philanthropist, and a respected dramatic actress. But what we really want to see her do is kick some butt again.
• 3In addition to the usual bullets, cars, and explosions, the action incorporates parkour, or "free running": precise methods of movement and obstacle navigation that will blow your mind.

Bet You Didn't Know

In the graphic novel the movie is based on, the characters are more like comic book super-villains than assassins. The character of "The Fox" is inspired by Batman's adversary/flame Catwoman. Angelina Jolie, who plays Fox in the movie, is said to answer to the nickname "Catwoman" in real life.

A Legend

MARLON BRANDO

An Academy Award-winning American actor whose body of work spanned over half a century. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential actors of all time. As a young sex symbol, he is best known for his roles as Stanley Kowalski in A Streetcar Named Desireand Terry Malloy in On the Waterfront, both directed by Elia Kazan in the early 1950s. In middle age, his well-known roles include his Academy-Award winning performance as Vito Corleone in The Godfatherand Colonel Walter Kurtz in Apocalyps Now the latter two directed by Francis Ford Coppola in the 1970s.

He made a strong impression in 1951 when he brought his performance as Stanley Kowalski to the screen in Kazan's adaptation of Tennessee Williams A Streetcar Named Desire. He was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor for that role, and again in each of the next three years for his roles in Viva Zapata! in 1952, Julius Caesar in 1953 as Mark Antony, and On the Waterfront in 1954. These first five films of his career established Brando as perhaps the premier acting talent in the world, as evidenced in his winning the BAFTA Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role three consecutive years, 1951 to 1953.

In 1953, he also starred in Lee Falk's play Arms and the Man. Falk was proud to tell people that Marlon Brando turned down an offer of $10,000 per week on Broadway, in favor of working on Falk's play in Boston. His Boston contract was less than $500 per week. It would be the last time he ever acted in a stage play.

Brando became a hero for the younger generation by playing motorcycle rebel Johnny Strabler in 1953's The Wild One. He created the rebel image for the rock-and-rollera. Brando's explosive screen presence exuded a raw sexuality that drew repeat ticket purchases among female theater goers of all ages. Theater managers related accounts of sold out weekday matiness where small children ran up and down the aisle making motorcycle noises while their mothers sat transfixed.

Director Nick Ray took the gang image from the movie The Wild One and brought it to his movie, Rebel Without A Cause, and thus emphasized Brando's effect on youth.

Aspects of the rebel culture that included motorcycles, leather jackets, jeans and the rebel image, which inspired generations of rebels, came thanks to that film and Brando's own unique image and character. The sales of motorcycle related paraphernalia, leather jackets, jeans, boots and t-shirts skyrocketed throughout the country. The film had a similar effect on overseas audiences. Local authorities and religious figures lamented the effect it was having on the youth of their respective countries.

Under Kazan's direction, and with a talented ensemble around him, Brando won the Oscar for his role of Terry Malloy in On the Waterfront. For the famous I coulda' been a contender scene, Brando convinced Kazan that the scripted scene was unrealistic, and with Rod Steiger, improvised the final product.

Brando followed that triumph by a variety of roles in the 1950s that defied expectations: as Sky Masterson in Guys and Dolls, where he managed to carry off a singing role; as Sakini, a Japanese interpreter for the U.S. Army in postwar Japan in The Teahouse of the August Moon as an Air Force officer in Sayonara, and a Nazi officer in The Young Lions Although he won an Oscar nomination for his acting in Sayonara, his acting had lost much of its energy and direction by the end of the 1950s.

His performance as Vito Corleone in 1972's The Godfather was a mid-career turning point. Director Francis Ford Coppola convinced Brando to submit to a "make-up" test, in which Brando did his own makeup (he used cotton balls to simulate the puffed-cheek look). Coppola was electrified by Brando's characterization as the head of a crime family, but had to fight the studio in order to cast the temperamental Brando, whose reputation for difficult behavior and demands was the stuff of backlot legend. However, Paramount studio heads wanted to give the role to Danny Thomas in the hope that Thomas would have his own production company throw in its lot with Paramount. Thomas declined the role and actually urged the studio to cast Brando at the behest of Coppola and others who had witnessed the screen test.

Eventually, Charles Bludhorn, the president of Paramount parent Gulf + Western, was won over to letting Brando have the role; when he saw the screen test, he asked in amazement, "What are we watching? Who is this old guinea?"

Brando won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance, but turned it down, becoming the second actor to refuse a Best Actor award (the first being George C. Scott for Patton). Brando boycotted the award ceremony, sending Native American Rights activist Sacheen Littlefeather to state his reasons, which were based on his objections to the depiction of Native Americans by Hollywood and television.

The actor followed with one of his greatest performances in Bernardo Bertolucci's 1973 film, Last Tango in Paris, but the performance was overshadowed by an uproar over the erotic nature of the film. Despite the controversies which attended both the film and the man, the Academy once again nominated Brando for the Best Actor.

His career afterward was uneven. He was paid one million dollars a week to play the iconic Colonel Kurtz in 1979's Apocalypse Now. He was supposed to show up slim, fit, and to have read the book Heart of Darkness. He showed up weighing around 220 pounds and hadn't read Heart of Darkness. This is why his character was shot mostly in the shadows and most of his dialogue was improvised. After his week was over, director Francis Ford Coppola asked him to stay an extra hour so that he could shoot a close up of Brando saying, "The horror, the horror." Brando agreed for an extra $75,000. After this film his weight began to limit the roles he could play.

1940's Classic Movie - Casablanca

During World War II, Europeans who were fleeing from the Germans, sought refuge in America. But to get there they would first have to go Casablanca and once they get there, they have to obtain exit visas which are not very easy to come by. Now the hottest spot in all of Casablanca is Rick's Cafe which is operated by Rick Blaine, an American expatriate, who for some reason can't return there, and he is also extremely cynical. Now it seems that two German couriers were killed and the documents they were carrying were taken. Now one of Rick's regulars, Ugarte entrusts to him some letters of transit, which he intends to sell but before he does he is arrested for killing the couriers. Captain Renault, the Chief of Police, who is neutral in his political views, informs Rick that Victor Laszlo, the European Resistance leader, is in Casablanca and will do anything to get an exit visa but Renault has been "told" by Major Strasser of the Gestapo, to keep Laszlo in Casablanca. Laszlo goes to Rick's to meet Ugarte, because he was the one Ugarte was going to sell the letters to. But since Ugarte was arrested he has to find another way. Accompanying him is Ilsa Lund, who knew Rick when he was in Paris, and when they meet some of Rick's old wounds reopen. It is obvious that Rick's stone heart was because of her leaving him. And when they learn that Rick has the letters, he refuses to give them to him, because "he doesn't stick his neck out for anyone"

The Happening- A Review

The Story

Elliot Moore is an under appreciated schoolteacher whose marriage is on the rocks. But nothing helps you forget your worries like a sudden global apocalypse! When people begin dying en masse, rumors fly about terrorist attacks or botched government experiments, but soon it becomes obvious that even the government couldn't botch things this badly. Confused and terrified, with their links to the rest of the world rapidly vanishing, Elliot and his family must go on the run in what is fast becoming a post-apocalyptic wasteland.

Three Good Reason

• This is writer/director M. Night Shyamalan's first R-rated thriller, so odds are you too will be seeing dead people. Lots and lots of grotesque, horrific dead people.
• 
  
• Mark Wahlberg is an acclaimed actor who looks great with "what the heck is going on" lines etched on his brow. Shyamalan wrote the part of Elliot specifically for him.
• 
  
• The hints are that the disaster in the film is an environmental one, so perhaps the movie will scare a few young city-dwellers into trading in their Hummers.

Veiwers Rating

C

Euro 2008

Van der sar says Caution

Holland captain Edwin van der Sar says he is too long in the tooth to be carried away by his team's sensational start to Euro 2008.
The Dutch have taken the tournament by storm in smashing a total of seven goals past 2006 World Cup finalists Italy and France to secure top spot in Group C and cruise into the quarter-finals.

Along with Spain and Portugal, they are now favourites to lift the title, with their vast array of forwards in sublime form and their often suspect defence holding up in their opening two matches.

But skipper Van der Sar, a veteran of more than 120 caps for his country, is preaching caution ahead of the knockout stages.

"We are only in the quarter-finals," the Manchester United goalkeeper, 37, warned.

"I have been going around for a long time and to be in the quarter-finals is nice, but it doesn't bring you any silverware.

"It's a great start for us - nobody expected us to come out and beat the world champions and then France.

"We will enjoy it but we still have to focus on our next game. And then we still have maybe three more games to play."

Holland produced a lesson in counter-attacking football to blow away France in Bern on Friday, the same way they destroyed Italy four days earlier in the same city.

Les Bleus have not conceded four goals in a match since 1982, and their defence has been one of the strongest in world football over the past few years.

But it could not cope with the brio and pace of the Dutch attacks, especially in the second half of the 4-1 victory at the Stade de Suisse Wankdorf.

Dirk Kuyt had opened the scoring with a simple header from a corner in the eighth minute, but it was after the break that the Oranje really put on a show as France pushed forward and left gaps at the back.

Second-half substitutes Arjen Robben and Robin van Persie exposed the French by finishing off flowing team moves in some style, before Wesley Sneijder added gloss in injury time with a trademark strike from long range.

"Holland must have had five or six chances, and scored four goals," said France right-back Willy Sagnol, who set up Thierry Henry for Les Bleus' only riposte.

"We had 10 of them (chances) and it finished 4-1 - it doesn't reflect the match.

"But if they continue like that, they will go far."

It could all have been so different had Henry, returning from a thigh injury, made the most of a host of opportunities that came his way at the start of the second half.

The first saw his goalbound effort strike the hand of Andre Ooijer, but French penalty appeals were waved away by German referee Herbert Fandel.

Henry was then set free by Florent Malouda's spectacular overhead kick but, one on one with Van der Sar, the Barcelona star lofted his lob clear of the bar.

The former Arsenal skipper's glancing finish in the 71st minute made it 2-1 but Robben's glorious strike just seconds later restored Holland's two-goal cushion and the game was up for the French.

"We have a good all-round team," said Holland coach Marco van Basten.

"We have an excellent goalkeeper, strong defenders, intelligent players in midfield and an excellent attack.

"The team spirit is really, really good. We played excellently against Italy and to offer a performance against France four days later is a feat.

"This indicates there is a great team spirit."

France now need to beat Italy in their final game to stand a chance of finishing second in the group.

But even a victory over their old rivals in Zurich on Tuesday would be made redundant if Romania, who are a point ahead of Les Bleus, defeat what will surely be a second-string Dutch team on the same night.

"When everything is going well, life is beautiful and everyone is happy," said philosophical France coach Raymond Domenech.

"When you lose, life is not so beautiful. In high-level football, you have to keep on hoping.

"The team is still here, there is another match left."

After four years in charge, Domenech could face the boot if France fail to qualify for the knockout stages but he is putting those concerns to one side for the moment.

"My big worry is the next match against Italy," he added.

"That is more important than the future of the staff and the manager."

Britney Spears Set To Be Nominated For Emmy Award

Britney Spears is all set to be nominated for an Emmy Award, for her cameos in US television sitcom - 'How I Met Your Mother.'

While the 26-year-old popstar is walking a recovery path, things are looking brighter for the 'Toxic' star, as producers of the show are pushing for her to be nominated for an Emmy.

Spears is now part of the official ballot as a possible nominee to receive an award for her two guest appearances on the sitcom.

Running for nomination, the singer turned actress will be joining the likes of Mary-Kate Olsen for 'Weeds', Alyssa Milano for 'My Name is Earl' and 'Scrubs' star Sarah Chalke for guest-starring as Brit's boss on the show.

Out of 41 actresses, only a few will be short-listed as final nominees before the September ceremony.

Incredible Hulk Review

The Story

What began as a sequel has become a complete do-over for our not-so-jolly green giant. This time around, Bruce Banner is on the run from General Thunderbolt Ross as he desperately searches for an antidote to the gamma radiation that has given new meaning to "anger issues." As if it's not bad enough that his ultra-ripped bod is designated official military property, a new nemesis emerges! When Emil Blonsky toys with the power that has made Banner into the Hulk, it transforms him into a true abomination.

Three Good Reason

• Edward Norton, whose struggles to deal with rage made him famous in Fight Club and American History X, is the perfect choice to play an ordinary guy with an all-consuming alter ego.
• If the first attempt at a Hulk movie left you feeling a little green, good news! This version has a whole new cast, a whole new mood, and even a whole new retelling of The Hulk's origin.
• The filmmakers have said this movie is directly inspired by the "Incredible Hulk" TV show from the 1970s. If you need proof, listen carefully to the music at the end of the latest trailer.

Viewers Rating

B-

James Bond's martinis secret to be reveiled

In order to celebrate the birth anniversary of Ian Fleming, the creator of the world's most famous secret agent, Professor Charles Spence and Dr Andrea Sella will be unveiling the secrets of 007's favourite drink and a range of other cocktails at a lecture at the Cheltenham Science Festival in England on June 4.

Spence is a psychologist who has worked with molecular gastronomist Heston Blumenthal to unravel the secrets of how we interpret taste, while his fellow Bond fan is a chemist at University College London.

In Canada in 1999, a group of students at the University of Western Ontario decided to test Bond's preference in a series of experiments on gin and vodka martinis, reports Sydney Morning Herald.

They studied the martini's ability to deactivate hydrogen peroxide , a substance used to bleach hair or disinfect scrapes and a potent source of the free radicals linked to ageing and disease.

The detailed chemistry is not fully understood but martinis were much more effective than their basic ingredients, such as gin or vermouth, at deactivating hydrogen peroxide - and about twice as effective when shaken.

In their analysis of the results, published in the British Medical Journal, the team concluded, reasonably enough, that Bond's excellent state of health "may be due, at least in part, to compliant bartenders".

And Sella believes that shaken martinis are not only healthier but also taste better.

This is due to what experts call "mouth feel". The shaken martini has more microscopic shards of ice, making its texture more pleasing. He plans to test this hypothesis at the Cheltenham Festival, where he is expecting no shortage of volunteers.

'The Sigma Protocol' is penned by iron man writers

The film focuses on an American economist who becomes the target of professional assassins, reports the Hollywood Reporter.

When a U.S. intelligence agent investigating his case finds herself discredited, the two end up on the run and uncover a multinational conspiracy manipulating the global economy and world events.

The book was one of the last books written by Ludlum, who is the creator of the studio's ultra-successful 'Bourne' franchise.

The project was set up at the studio several years ago, and at one point had Jonathan Jakubowicz on board to write and direct.

Paul Sandberg and Strike Entertainment's Marc Abraham and Eric Newman are producing.

USD 1 million were offered to lindsay lohan to admit she's a lesbian!

There were already rumours of her having a close relationship with best pal DJ Samantha Ronson, and when they were spotted kissing and cuddling one another at the Cannes Film Festival last month (May08), the rumours intensified.

The offer had apparently been made by OK! magazine to Lohan, however editors at the magazine have refused to confirm the reports.

From Lohan's side, her representatives revealed to the New York Post that the offer was true.

"They sent offers and we passed," Contactmusic reported New York Daily as quoting the representative.

The whole episode started just days after Lohan's mother Dina gave the pair her blessing that is if they really were lovers.

"If she's happy, I'm happy. That's all I'll say," Dina said.

"Samantha's great. I've known her and her family for 10 years," she added.

Meanwhile, more rumours have come up about the two, the latest being that the two of them are planning an engagement, though neither sides are confirming anything.

Anand went down to Ivanchuk in Leon chess final

Indian Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand paid for costly blunders at crucial junctures to lose a closely-fought final and relinquish the Magistral Ciudad De Leon chess crown to Vassily Ivanchuk in Leon, Spain.

Ukrainian Grandmaster Ivanchuk, fresh from his triumph in the MTel Masters, scored a 2.51.5 victory to deny the Indian his eighth title in Leon.

The first game set the tone of the match as Ivanchuk took the lead over the world champion with the black pieces.

Anand launched a kingside attack against the Taimanov variation of Sicilian defence, but could not make much headway as Ivanchuk created sufficient counter play on the queen side.

The Indian drifted into a disadvantageous position as Ivanchuk’s heavy pieces penetrated down the queenside. The game came to a rather abrupt end when Anand made a serious miscalculation on the 38th move which cost him a piece and brought about his immediate resignation.

Anand bounced back in the second game with a thumping victory in 26 moves from the black side of the Sicilian defence. Ivanchuk adopted a positional approach against the Sicilian Najdorf and Anand neutralised it easily with skillful play.

Ivanchuk was left without a concrete plan and lost an exchange in his attempt to stir up some activity for his pieces. Anand consolidated his advantage and Ivanchuk resigned in a hopeless middlegame position.

The third game was the most keenly contested, but was marred with some errors from both sides. The two Grandmasters repeated the opening from their first game with Anand varying from that game on the 17th move.

His improvement fetched him a small advantage but the position was quite complicated.

Ivanchuk exchanged queens on the 24th move but failed to equalise. Anand won a pawn, but later made some technical errors in the endgame and allowed Ivanchuk to escape with a draw.

The fourth game created a sensation as Anand lost it in just 16 moves to hand over the crown to his opponent. Ivanchuk decided not to test Anand’s play in the Sicilian defence and played the Queen’s Pawn Opening.

Anand chose to reply with the Nimzo Indian defence and the game proceeded along an established theoretical path. Anand then got a slightly inferior position due to a transposition of moves but the game seemed to be headed for a long fight.

A terrible blunder on the 14th move, however, cost Anand a piece and realising the hopeless nature of his position, he resigned two moves later.

BookMark at :

Cinthol ad has more action than ‘Dhoom 2′: Hrithik

From free-running to bungee jumping to diving into the ocean, Hrithik Roshan is seen doing all that in the Cinthol ad. He says he accepted the offer because it was about movement and progress.

“There was more action in the Cinthol ad than in ‘Dhoom 2′. It was so much fun. I [...]

Hell boy is back (Hellboy 2 : The Golden Army)

Hellboy II: The Golden Army is a 2008 film directed by guillermo del torm. The film is a sequel to 2004's Hell boy, also directed by Del Toro. Hellboy II: The Golden Army is written by Guillermo del Toro and Mike Mignalo Universal Pictures finances and distributes the film, which has a target release date for july 11 2008.

he Golden Army begins when an ancient truce existing between humankind and the invisible realm of the fantastic is broken; Hell on earth is ready to erupt. Hellboy II tells the tale of a ruthless elven prince who treads the world above and the one below, defies his bloodline and awakens an unstoppable army of creatures. It's up to the planet's toughest, roughest superhero to battle the merciless dictator and his marauders.

The Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defense (BPRD) will travel between the surface world and the unseen magical one, where creatures of fantasy become corporeal, along with his expanding team pyrokinetic girlfriend Liz Sherman (Selma Blair), aquatic empath Abe (Doug Jones), and protoplasmic mystic Johann Krauss (James Dodd), the newest member of the BPRD. Hellboy, a creature of two worlds who is accepted by neither, must choose between the life he knows and an unknown destiny that beckons him.

Check out this new trailer of dark knight

Starbucks’ Sound

For most of us, coffee drinkers, Starbucks have become an addiction and a way of life. That’s why they picked out the best books, best movies and best music that their market would surely love!
Hear Music–chooses the songs that are played in Starbucks coffeehouses and are placed in unique album compilations! It’s one of the […]

Van Halen’s ‘The Reunion Tour’ Rescheduled

You Are There: The Reunion Tour’ is Van Halen’s return to the road which began in fall 2007. David Lee Roth, the band’s original lead singer got together with the band for the first time in more than twenty years for this reunion tour.
The band has postponed their tour dates this month of March due […]

5 asian film to start up

My earliest childhood memory (seriously) is watching Star Wars, and that started a lifelong love affair I’ve had with the movies. However, if you’re like me at all, most of the film you grew up watching was in English and the only real Asian film you were exposed to usually involved a big guy named Godzilla. But the truth is there is some great and innovative film coming out of Asia that unfortunately gets next to no attention from North American audiences. As a matter of fact, most people I talk to are still surprised when I tell them “The Ring” was originally an Asian film.

Now, the reality is that I am FAR from being an expert on Asian film. I’m just a film fan who has started to develop an appreciation for some Asian cinema. So I thought it would be a good idea, as a casual Asian film fan who is also just in the process of developing my understanding for the genre, to introduce some of you who are interested in expanding your horizons, to 15 movies to get your feet wet in Asian film. Some of you have seen lots of these films already, but I know a bunch of you haven’t.

So without any more delay, here are 15 benchmark Asian films to get you started. In no particular order:

1) Ju-On (The Grudge)

Yes, the original version that the inferior North American Grudge (with Michelle Gellar) was based on. To this day maybe the scariest film I’ve ever seen apart from American Werewolf in London. The main difference between most North American horror and Asian horror, is that American horror tries to scare you with gross visuals and “startle scare” (when something jumps out at you), whereas a lot of Asian horror freaks the hell out of you with your own imagination… with concepts and atmosphere… with tension and mood. Ju-On makes you want to check yourself into a mental ward your nerves take such a beating. FROM THE IMDB: “An evil curse and vengeful spirits seem to linger upon a house where the horrific murder of a woman and child took place and anyone who sets foot inside the house is marked for a terrifying haunting which will not rest. One by one, those who have been tainted by the house begin to die, and nowhere is safe”

2) Fist of Legend

Not the deepest, or the most artful, or the best… but hands down my favorite Jet Li film of all time. Set during the Japanese occupation in China, the political and cultural tensions are really just a backdrop to total non-stop ass kicking deliciousness. Everything you expect to find in a great old style kung-fu film and more. Revenging a slain master, settling even the most trivial dispute with to-the-death combat to be followed by more ass kicking. The action is amazing, funny at times, always pretty lighhearted. FROM THE ROTTENTOMATOES: “A martial arts protege (Li) leads his classmates in revolt after their teacher is poisoned by the invading Japanese. The final fight scene is arguably one of the best of all time. Fights choreographed by Yuen Wo Ping, action director of THE MATRIX”

3) Sympathy for Mr Vengeance

Have you ever had a day where nothing seems to be going right… so you try something to improve the situation by doing something a little drastic, but that only leads to the situation getting even worse, then you try to fix what you did wrong and it gets even worse still… and then a giant elephant shits on your face? Yeah well… that’s Sympathy for Mr Vengence. A heart breaking, brutal and viciously violent story that leaves you wondering if you should be cheering for the “hero” or not all the way through. FROM MSN MOVIES: “Korean director Park Chan-wook followed up his highly acclaimed Joint Security Area with this tale of a deaf mute named Ryu (Shin Ha-kyun) trying to help his sister (Lim Ji-Eun) get a kidney transplant. Because his blood type is incompatible and no donors are available, he turns to a group of black-market organ dealers who offer to find one in return for one of his and ten million won. The dealers rip him off, so Ryu conspires with his girlfriend, a political activist, to kidnap his former boss’ young daughter and ransom her for the ten million won. But a horrible complication ruins their plans and things begin to spiral out of control as the girl’s father (Song Kang-ho) decides to take matters into his own hands with the help of a sympathetic cop.”

4) Hero

One of the rare films that actually got a North American wide release so I probably shouldn’t even put it on this list… but I know ludicrous numbers of people who haven’t seen it, so here it is. Forget just Asian film… Hero is one of the most beautifully shot films in the history of cinema. Every single solitary frame of this movie is a pure work of art. The use of color is like nothing I have ever seen before. You could watch this film on mute and you’d still have a rich experience watching it. FROM TRIBUTE: “At the height of China’s Warring States period, the country was divided into seven kingdoms: Qin, Zhao, Han Wei, Yan, Chu and Qi. For years, the separate kingdoms fought ruthlessly for supremacy. The Qin King was obsessed with conquering all of China and becoming her first Emperor. He had long been the target of three legendary assassins. To anyone who defeated the assassins, the King promised great power, gold and a private audience with the King himself. For ten years no one came to claim the prize. So when the enigmatic county sheriff, Nameless (Jet Li), came to the palace bearing the legendary weapons of the slain assassins, the King was impatient to hear his story. Sitting in the palace, only ten paces from the King, Nameless told his extraordinary tale. But then something unexpected happened - the King had a different story to tell of how Nameless really came to sit there. In the center of the intrigue sits Nameless and the ruler of the Kingdom, with only ten steps between them. Within those ten steps holds an earth-shattering tale of love, honor and duty, a story that moves beyond the reaches of history.”

5) Battle Royale

This list is in no particular order… but if it was in order, and someone asked me “what is the one Asian film I should go out and grab” the words “Battle Royale” would come out of my lips before they even finished the question. An interesting mixture of social commentary, violence and dilemma tension (where you as an audience member think “what the hell would I do?”). We all always knew those asshole teachers wanted to see us dead! This movie just fucking RULES! There have long been rumors of a North American remake of this gem… I’m open to that… but it stands very little chance at being as good as the original. FROM SPOUT: “In a future where society is on the verge of collapse, the government takes drastic action against the problem of rebellious teenagers in this violent sci-fi opus from Japan. In the year 2002, Japan’s economy has taken a dramatic turn for the worse, and massive unemployment and inflation have thrown most adults into a state of chaos; the nation’s youth culture responds with unprecedented violence, delinquency, and truancy. Desperate to restore order, the Japanese parliament responds by creating the Millennial Reform School Act, in which groups of junior high students are selected at random, sent to an isolated island, and forced to play a rigorous war game, in which all but one of their number are killed. Kitano (Beat Takeshi) is an embittered school instructor who guides the 44 students of the Zentsuji Middle School’s Class B through the deadly game known as “Battle Royale,” as they struggle to survive against the elements and each other.”