This entry was posted on January 26, 2012 at 8:48 AM and is filed under the ugly . You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed
You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
I agree. Rani’s look is the more intriguing than Aamir’s though. And according to a UTV exec on twitter all 3 of them have equal prominence in this film. I’m most excited for Rani’s performance out of the three. Interesting how Excel, Reema and Zoya have been able to get stars like Aamir and Hrithik to agree to ensemble films.
Yes, Looking forward to Aamir and Rani in this. However, I dont think I would categorize this as an ensemble. There have been 2 “heroine” and 1 hero projects in the past and they were never categorized as such. ZNMD agreed it falls under that. But regardless ensemble or no, We will hopefully get to see a good film.
I dnt think Aamir minds as long as the product/script itself is worth it….and I think every actor should think of the script before himself because at the end of the day its all abt teamwork
In case *my* views go unnoticed I have decided to repost it here. from that other thread which should now become redundant seeing that the teaser has been posted here.
*Must* Amir sport that ferocious scowl?!!!!
Especially when passing through the crowd with that “I’m angry, and I’m looking for someone…see my uniform? That’s what I’m supposed to do!! “(reminded me of his Gajhani expressions)
That’s called hamming IMO.
I wonder if he’s going to ham his way through the film like he did in Gajhani.
wow oldgold….how refreshingly different. I am shocked at your comment about Aamir. Didn’t see this one coming !! and yes anyone watching this teaser immediately thinks of the word ‘hamming’ Aamir comes on the screen.
Yes reactions have been superb! Thousands of likes, shares, comments on Facebook and Youtube in just 24 hours! It’s also the #1 most liked, top favorited, most discussed video on Youtube India today.
As much as I liked it, I think it’s not exactly going to be a record breaker. 3I is impossible. Even if Aamir manages to get this one close to Ready, Dabangg or Bodyguard it will be an achievement.
I don’t doubt Aamir’s star power – but the fact is box office depends on content. Content does not necessarily imply quality, it also includes stuff which is usually observed to have worked with audience – such as songs, dances, comedy etc.
From whatever I’ve read or heard about it, Talaash is a serious film. Songs are there, but no lip sync ones & totally situational. Ram Sampath himself tweeted its music is complete opposite of Delhi Belly. Aamir only insists it’s an ”entertainer” BUT in ”an emotional” manner. Action is there, but not the mainstay of the film or its highlight ala Ghajini!
Even comparing it to Ghajini is impossible. Talaash is commercial but does not have conventional elements of masala entertainers getting success in Bollywood these days.
KM: no way on earth that (what looks to be a ) dark/gritty thriller will be breaking any records, let alone those set by 3 Idiots. Don’t see that happening in any industry on earth, much less ours.
thank you for this! i am liking the look and feel of it.
but ill be honest the background music and his ‘scowl’ look was reminding me of Ghajni all over again. i wouldnt necessarily label it as hamming as oldgold has said but yeah i’ve seen it before. other than those two things i noticed this promo rocks. im already hooked.
LOL, oldgold has set the ball rolling immediately…perhaps it is to do with sheer apprehension of her and many other SRK fans today watching this bloody awesome trailer of Aamir’s new film & breaking out into cold sweat Can’t blame her or them, can we ?? LOL !!
“I wonder if he’s going to ham his way through the film like he did in Gajhani. “….Aamir never did a film called “Gajhani”…actually remember him doing a film called “Ghajini”
As a matter of fact, I have been on Twitter most of the day today mainly to follow updates on the classic Roger-Rafa tennis match today…wow, the overwhelmingly positive responses to the Talaash teaser was quite extraordinary !!
I’m waiting for this film eagerly, **not as a fan of AK**, but as an ardent fan of the genre. I’ve been starved for it for too long.
I’m glad that no other than Amir’sfan has corroborated my feelings of Gajhani look.
He may not support my other view of hamming, but like the Gajhani view this is a genuine opinion regardless of my being an *absolute* non fan (which makes my opinion to be taken lightly).
thats fair enough. i want this film to be good and interesting also. but the common man may think this is a ghajini rehash. if the next promo is full of songs…then itll only add to the ghajini comparison.
i think Aamir should keep the theme as a dark..gripping suspense thriller. i don’t really care about the box office i just want a good movie. 100cr to me looks hard only because of the genre.
It can no way be like Ghajini. Ghajini’s subsequent promos were rather bright, with Asin’s camaraderie & Aamir’s romantic songs/scenes with her. Rest assured Aamir isn’t going to appear shirtless romancing his heroines in any song of this film!
From whatever I’ve heard, its songs are nowhere like Ghajini. So Ghajini comparison is out of question!
Reema Kagti is among the rarest of breeds in Hindi (or in fact world) filmdom, a female director, joining the short list that’s come to prominence over the last 10 or so years — and Talaash is in a completely different vein than Honeymoon Travels…can’t help but root for her work…
The teaser IMO is fine. Nothing great or anything. It’s really hard to make a great teaser unless you are doing a full fledge trailer. What’s nice is to see Aamir in a completely different genre. I doubt that any record will be broken here though. A 70 – 75 CR opening followed by a 140 – 150 CR is what I am looking at here but Aamir has proven from his last two big movies that anything can happen.
Trailer looks good gripping. I like a good suspenseful thriller but this genre is mostly for the multiplex audiences. For this genre it will outgross other thrillers but this not a commercial masala movie.
However as I had written before this will be not be a 100
Crore. The reason being that there is no repeat value for a suspense movie. Also the theme for this is dark and gritty and may not appeal to kids and older people.
As an Aamir fan I am looking forward to the movie with an excellent opening due to his reputation but it will not have enough legs to cross the 100 crore.
This is another niche Aamir is exploring after Peeple Live(Satire), Delhi Belly(Adult humour), Dhobhi Ghaat(Art movie) so Talash will be better then those movies but not better then Ghajini.
Anyway the indian audience is more into the masala movies and satisfiled leaving their brains at home watching Dabbang, Ready, Golmaal series, Bodyguard that have no scripts.
Dhoom 3 is another story. That will be his mainstream masala commercial movie that can break records.
agreed on your central point.. do think 100 crores or more is possible because Aamir’s prestige should get this the strongest initial possible. It also has two important leads in the female stars. Given that Aamir is always strong on trending just 60 crores in week 1 will get him to a 100. Anything more and he should be able to clear that benchmark more easily. But yes it definitely isn’t a regular commercial genre. Aamir though will get the most out of it that’s possible.
I’d bet the aim of this one is to be a big one. Aamir is quite clear in his strategy from what I can see. His small films that gross 15-65crore are basically budgeted in 30cr less category. His big films, like Ghajini and 3 Idiots are marketed much more and budgeted much higher. He knows he needs commercial elements in these films to make big money.
Again Talaash has already been marketing in a loose way with this fake posters and the early teaser is a full 6months before release. You don’t do this unless your expecting a big one.
The trailer looks commercial to me. The idea that it will be less than 100 crore etc…well Aamir usually defies this and how. Track record is people felt RDB would not make more than 30 crore or TZP more than 30 crore or 3 Idiots more than 80-90 crore. If the film works, and it opens big, it will make big numbers. Opening and wide opening is key to gauging this.
these are fair points.. my contention is that even with a relatively dark, less conventionally commercial film 100 crores is in play. But you’re right that Aamir wouldn’t agree to a major budget (he’s also co-producing this) for a film he didn’t think could do a lot commercially. And as always his biggest trump card is that anyone with a pulse shows up for his films!
The trade wrote off ZNMD as having niche appeal as well. The first Delhi Belly teaser did not look encouraging at all. Don’t underestimate the Aamir-Akhtar team- I’m sure they’ll plan a brilliant marketing campaign and then the star power of Aamir along with Kareena/Rani will ensure a historic opening. This looks like it will be of a much higher quality than most Bollywood action/thrillers so WOM and trending should be good. I think that it could do a 100 crore first week easily and then another 100 crores including the international Market.
I agree with your points. But I think *maybe* it could somehow reach at least a 100 crore & as Satyam has said, the opening would be massive enough to ensure the film at least gets to 100 crore. Anything above 100 crore depends totally on how audience responds to the film.
All said and done, this is not exactly going to be a biggie – going by its serious feel.
But as thecooldude said, in the end you never know what would actually happen as Aamir Khan has managed ”the seemingly unlikely” stuff in the past.
More importantly, the film will be releasing at a very opportunate time just post IPL & also when the summer vacations are still on in most of the country…possibly with a huge screen count.
With Aamir you just never know…in fact remember distinctly that before the release of 3I, there was speculation on the film not being”commercial” enough as compared to a Ghajini…the rest is history !
I agree with you on its time of release being an opportune time. But we should also keep in mind that a lot of movies are releasing this year around the same months – AV, FKS, Rowdy Rathore etc. unlike previous years.
And also in previous years the post-IPL hit films have been all comedies or light-hearted entertainers like Housefull and Ready. Whereas Talaash does not fall into that category.
I remember how Fanaa got overshadowed by Phir Hera Pheri & later Krissh only because it was a tad more serious compared to more light-hearted conventional entertainers as other two films.
Fanaa made a lot more than PHP though even without Gujarat. Krrish was a different deal, the whole superhero thing and so on. But Fanaa did extremely well, especially so in the North.
Media & film fans online have been throwing whispers here and there about the film being inspired or based on X, Y, Z film or TV show (NDTV tried to compare to Dexter!) – but insiders insist Talaash is an original film (dunno how correct those *insiders* are!).
The hearsay about inspiration is uncalled for as the film has been kept totally under wraps & its teaser is too vague to reveal anything which might lead us to draw proper conclusions about the exact story of the film!
Which film or TV show or book it seems inspired from, can be discussed only after it has released!
@ami – I loved ZNMD and deserved better box office then what I got. However it had some humour and was more mainstream that all audiences could identify with except the small towns. Taalash looks more dark and
@Shubh. Yes it will release post IPL but this year unlike the last 2 years there are quite a few big movies (Housefull 2, Tezz, Agent Vinod, Jannat 2) and some other like Ferrari Ki Sawari releasing during the IPL so I think this time there is no gap.
@ Satyam and jayshah – It will be interesting to see how Aamir markets this movie since it is suspense thriller without giving too much away. 3 Idtiots was clearly a family entertainer for all audiences.
One thing Aamir only market to the target audience that he thinks the movie will appeal to.
Hoping to be proved wrong since we have not had a successful suspensful thriller since GUPT which I enjoyed.
I think it’s often less about genres (suspense or whatever) than it is about the film making an emotional connection with the audience. The reason a number of suspense films don’t work is because directors don’t focus enough on this aspect, always important for a commercial industry. This is not likely to happen though with Aamir who’s hyper-concerned about this aspect of things! So I’d think even with a somewhat darker, unconventional subject (which is to say commercial but not completely so) it’s hard to see a scenario where it does less than hard even with a 60 crore opening or so. On the other hand Aamir gets everyone in and he also has good trending all the time. So a 70 crore number could get him closer to that 150 mark. However if the film is more commercial than this preview looks then Jay is absolutely right that much more is possible. People forget that the two kinds of films that gross a lot are a) the obvious blockbuster types that please everyone b) the somewhat less universal ones in terms of subject that nonetheless strike a huge chord with cross-sections of the audience. So we’re looking at the 3I model in one case and the RDB model in the other. Both can bring in very big numbers. Obviously 3I is just the absolute biggest deal but Talaash could be working off a Ghajini model. We’ll have to wait for more previews but again Aamir’s greatest strength is that the audience trusts him so even less than exciting previews don’t quite impact him the way they do every other star. But I did like this preview a lot.
Haha! Aamir badly wanted the title Dhuan, but it was registered with some other producer. So they finally had to settle with Talaash!
BTW, agree with points made by Satyam.
Haha oldgold : u r really in form 2de
Forgot-did i give your ‘dose’ 4 today-joking
Btw note that u r wearing red today-hmm
Well, talaash is way too dull
Even’ dabang’ had a certain resonance to it
Imagine dabang been named as something drab..
Don’t mind anything in Hindi -something less cliche
Lots of Shammi kapoor films this time – finally caught up on his brand of cinema. Won’t describe the stories but I enjoyed them, particularly for the incredible soundtracks. One gem after another.
Memsaheb
A comedy with a young Meena Kumari and Kishore. Shammi plays the villain!
Junglee
Shammi’s first superhit. Saira Banu’s debut I think. SJ gave an awesome soundtrack. Ehsaan Tera Hoga Mujhpar, Din Saara Guzaara Tere angana, Kashmir Ki Kali Hoon Main, Suku Suku, Ja Ja Ja Mere Bachpan and of course Chaahe Koi Mujhe Junglee Kahe…Yaahoo!!!
Professor
Shammi Kapoor dressing up as an old man! Nice songs by SJ – Awaaz Deke Hamein Tum Bulaao, Aye Gulbadan, Main Chali Main Chali, Khuli Falak Mein Jhootha Ghussa
Kashmir Ki Kali
Sharmila Tagore’s first film. Story feels very familar but what songs by OP Nayyar!! Deewana Hua Baadal, Yeh Chaand Sa Roshan Chehra, Ishaaron Ishaaron Mein Dil Lene Waale.
Jaanwar
This felt slightly more serious than the other Shammi films. But still lots of fun. Tum Se Achha Kaun Hai, Lal Chhaddi, Meri Mohabbat Jawaan Rahegi.
Brahmchaari
I’d heard that this was Shammi’s best performance. He plays a guy who looks after lots of orphans. Vaguely reminded me of HHRPK. Mumtaz was lovely in Aaj Kal Tere Mere Pyar Ke Charche.
Andaaz
Hema looks so beaitiful in this film. I enjoyed it – about a widow and widower falling in love. I especially liked the way Hema’s mixed feelings were handled (though her acting as usual was competent at best…)
Hero
Can’t believe I sat through this! Definitley obvious this is an eighties movie. Watchable in a strange way. Meenakshi actually came across really well. Sanjeev Kumar always a pleasure to see. Jackie was okay… One of Shammi’s last big films i guess.
Entourage Season 8
Can’t believe the final season is over Remained brilliant till the end. Gonna really miss the gang.
Baaje Payal
I randomly came across this on youtube. It was made by Asha Parekh I guess in the early 90′s. Jaya Bhaduri interviews an actress each week about how she learnt to dance, her greatest dances and some thoughts from co-stars. I saw the episodes with Vjayantimala, Hema Malini, Saira Banu and Sridevi. Really good show. The Saira Banu episode was particularly good…I haven’t seen much of her work so didn’t realise what a good dancer she was. Would love to see more episodes but can’t find anymore…
Maryada
1971 film which i think is really interesting simply because it stars Mala Sinha in a double role, opposite Rajkumr (with whom she did several movies) but very surprisingly also opposite Rajesh Khanna, who was actually 6 years younger than her in real life. Yet she looks beautiful and they don’t look remotley awkward together. A really silly film though, with a complicated plot that i won’t bother to describe. Several nice songs though. Mukesh’s Zubaan Per Dard Bhari Dastaan, Lata-Kishore Chupke Se Dil Daide plus a few more. The cast make it just about bearable.
Dhan Daulat
This was a not so good film from 1980, with Neetu Singh and Rish Kapoor. Neetu seemed rather bored by the whole thing but Rish was decent. Mala Sinha plays his mum and is watchable. Rajendra Kumar plays the Sanjeev Kumar character from Trishul (though here he it was an accident that made him leave Mala then not be able to find her later). Not worth watching.
Nau Do Gyaarah
The last 15 mins of the film were cut sio I missed the climax! Brilliant soundtrack by SD Burman…Aankhon Mein Kya Ji, Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke etc. Dev Anand stars with his wife.
Tere Mere Sapne
Decent marital/medical drama with Dev Anand and Mumtaz. Good soundtrack.
Jagir
The latest rare Meena Kumari film I was able to find. Sadly not a good movie, but always a pleasure to watch my favourite actress. The search for the remaining 10-15 movies continues.
Aa Ab Laut Chale
I watched this cos I read in an interview of Manmohan Desai that this film was the closest to his heart but flopped. It was fun to watch actually, about a couple who get seperated due to a big misunderstanding, and there’s a child involved too. Sharmila Tagore and Shashi Kapoor make a good couple. Few nice songs too.
Sahib Bibi aur Ghulam
Was home for a few days so made my sister watch a few old films. And what better than Meena Kumari in her finest performance
Sujata
As above. One of my favourite films. Nutan is magic. And Jalte Hain Jiske Liye…aah!
Shaheed
Also saw this with my sister. I’ve watched it before. Def one of Manoj Kumar’s best films. Great performances and incredible music. The later versions cannot touch this one.
Of all Shammi Kapoor films, I have always liked Andaaz the best along with Teesri manzil.
And I think you mean ‘Aaa Gale Lag Jaa’ -Aa Ab Laut Chale is an unbearable movie!
When I saw TM a few years back i didn’t like it but I think that’s cos I was pretty anti-Shammi Kapoor at the time (i’ve loosened up a little now!). I’m sure I’d enjoy it if I saw it again…even if just for the songs.
Btw oldgold -what do u feel about these old songs vvvv
Were they as popular in those / your times or have they developed a more “nostalgic aura” now
Also what are your top ten ‘old’ songs currently -thanx
Yea ur right, though i’ve not yet seen TND – wil check it out at some point cos yes the songs are awesome
Found Jagir randomly online so I immedialey ordered the DVD. There are a few Meena Kumari films I’m still desperate to see but I doubt I’ll get hold of them
Yo salimjakhra–nice to hear from u-hope the lithium is flowing lol
Watched 20 min of kashmir ki kali–must say these films have their own charm now.. have a certain innocence…
Talkin of shammi kapoor–a song currently on my playlist
Blast from the past
ANd check out this one–
Apparently dev anand picked this as his OWN favorite in london few days before his death–(anecdotal report)
Didnt even watch the trailer–will watch this film…Why?
The ONE word to describe aamirs work ethic in the last decade has been “CONSCIENTIOUS”.
Audience feels that he wont ditch them and their goodwill for a good initial…
This “rapport” has been carefully built up over the years and dont remember many (infact any) such case over a prolonged period .
Even the great ones had duds in between
BUt remind me of any recent duds from aamir
And may someone sugggest a similar arallel–satyam, anything comes to your mind?
Talking of “talaash” or whateva this film will be called
there is only one thing in this setup which will hook audience interest and people wont hesitate giving it a try even with bad reviews
ps–all the others like kareena and rani and even Excel are merely incidental here. The former two specially here (maybe workig for free) to gain a quick hit and name in a good worthy product….
ps2-having watched the promo now –good but not as good as i expected–but am sure the aamir effect will take care of the film..
All this talk of “cerebral thriller” is ok but knowing aamir and the multiplex audience, suspect the “cerebral’ bit will be limited and only as a guise to the structure to lure people into believing that theyve finally watched and appreciated a niche product….lol
dont think..aamir can be tagged as the Shahenshah when the real emperor is still ruling the hearts of this nation ..even after 40 odd years of entertaining our people..in a country where they dont even spare his flops (Agneepath).
no lie i saw a commercial by ‘incredible india’ with amitabh bachchan on visiting the state of gujurat on CNN earlier today. im not sure if it was CNN that aired it or it was run by the cable company.
“real emperor is still ruling the hearts of this nation”
The ex emperor was ruling 20/30 years ago with the help of multi starrers. His era has ended already in 80′s.
Aamir is the top most star right now commercially and critically also. He is the new Shehenshah …
Disagree…..
and btw Dont behave like karan johar…. u dont need to appreciate someone by disrespecting and dementing some thing which is a reality…. Both are masters of their craft… this is the way world luks at them
if this guy makes a full on suspense thriller like this a 150cr grosser then ive just run out of words for him and how great his ‘greatness’ is. lol. if that makes any sense!
i think it will obviously open huge because of the heavy promotion and because of Aamir Khan but after that it might not have repeat value…like others have mentioned to last to a 100cr grosser.
i see it opening at 60-65 and ending up at 90-95cr which would be aamirs most poorly trended film in a while.
i would label ghajini as a suspense thriller but on a commercial basis which is why it trended decently. talaash seems like a very dark suspense thriller without any element of commercialism and thus another risk and challenge aamir likes to do. always against the tide.
Alright…works pretty well for me…almost as well as Don 2. Personally found the Don 2 trailer more gripping (but obviously I’m being biased because SRK starred in Don 2).
But, in all fairness, I would say it looks like a worthwhile watch. Aamir looks decent … like the new look, but, expressions so far remind me of Ghajini. But, I think I’ll be watching this one…looks good! Hopefully, the action will be as slick as Don 2. If it is and the story is up to par, then, I’m all up to watching this film!
I can’t compare Don 2 and Talaash already, because obviously, it’s only a trailer.
And just unbiasedly [if that's a word] speaking, I am looking forward to this more than I am for YRF’s next…guess the genre just excites me more.
OVERALL — I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO WATCHING THE MOVIE IN THEATRES EITHER ON THE 2ND OR THE 3RD DAY!
Appreciate your honesty Arsh. Story cannot really be doubted because its an Aamir Khan film & also because he himself has been raving about how much he loved the script & was excited by it.
Action part – I think it should neither be compared to Ghajini nor Don 2. It’s more of a suspense drama – emphasis is more on psychological elements and emotions (from what I’ve read about it) – action is there, but it is just a part of the film. It’s not at all an all out action film like Ghajini or Don series.
Good to know you liked the first look and are looking forward to it.
I mean, there’s always a hint of doubt in me…even for Shahrukh. Honestly speaking, Ghajini was kinda disappointing. It should have been action [personally speaking]…but, there were so many speed breakers in between. That’s the reason I like Don 2. There were no speed breakers [except for just 1 right at the start w/ Roma and Malik]. But, I have to give Aamir this…he has the best sense of movies in Bollywood!
Suspense part – I really hope they make this part interesting, and don’t fail like 8 x 10 Tasveer. Good luck to Aamir
Close to 7 Lac views on youtube For the Talaash Teaser within a Day Shows The POWER OF AAMIR KHAN !! Without revealing much in the Promo even the visuals Makes an IMPACT !! Talaash Teaser is a SURESHOT WINNER !! And if promoted well it ll easily cross 150 cr + ( Marketing Genius )
♫So, I was browsing through facebook, and what should I see?
But SRK fanboy’s “Aamir Khan is a copycat” plea!♫
Yeah, but, in all seriousness guys…just wanna say…please stop hating…the fanboys on facebook were posting crap that Talaash was a copy and Aamir is a copycat post. This really makes me…frustrated [to say the least].
So, I’m asking you guys … please keep THIS blog hate free.
I hate haters! that’s all! Thanks
I agree that this will be favoured more by the multiplex crowd..however this has been sold quite high and this starring Aamir…..the buildup to this will be immense.
I remember the Ghajni hype was amazing..it was obvious that it was going to be a monster at the BO.
I wouldn’t put it past Aamir to take this to 150cr
Wow — as with all Excel films, this is a bit too Hollywoody, but I am definitely intrigued. Really like Aamir’s and Rani’s look here. I hope Kareena isn’t playing a hooker here, but I think that is likely the case…
Posted On Tuesday, January 31, 2012 at 02:16:08 AM
Aamir Khan seems to have created a record yet again. Beating Shah Rukh Khan’s Don 2 by a margin of Rs 10 crore, the theatrical rights for his forthcoming film co-starring Kareena Kapoor and Rani Mukerji, Talaash has been sold to Reliance for Rs 90 crore.
The deal between producer Excel Entertainment and Reliance was finalised last week. A source close to the production house informed Mumbai Mirror, “Rs 90 crore is a huge amount. Don 2 sold for Rs 80 crore and that was already an established franchise. This however, puts a lot of recovery pressure on Talaash.”
Trade analyst Amod Mehra however, did not feel that the amount was too surprising. “I think it’s a reasonable amount,” said Mehra.
Excel Entertainment and Reliance remained unavailable for comment.
Never understood how such deals get through. From the teaser itself its evident that it will work only with a section of the audience. 90 cr is a lot of bucks to recover even considering nontheatrical revenues.
This is not going to be a Ghajini or 3 Idiots for sure.
not sure if these numbers are accurate so can’t comment either way. Will say that this film can make big money. The other 100 crore grossers don’t mean much because as I keep saying most of those are underperformers. Leaving this aside Aamir will never make a less than sensible investment as a producer, nor will he ever agree to a film that even if acceptable in every sense, has an unreasonable budget. He’s the smartest guy around in these matters. Even this film has three producers — Excel, Aamir, Reliance.
KM, by the standards the Bombay trade puts out regularly for these films it just needs to gross 40 crores! It’s already a hit! Everything else comes through satellite rights and what not. At 80 it’s a superhit. If it touches 100 crores it’s a massive one. I am not exaggerating at all. This is what they’ve been putting out on everything from Ra One to Agneepath!
Here’s the issue — the original Agneepath released today would have had the same numbers and the same graph as the current one. But in those days there were genuine standards. Today scams are practiced all the time in the name of the box office. so films with a trending ratio that wouldn’t be accepted as successes anywhere in the world, including in Bombay not so long ago, including in South India even today, are routinely called blockbusters by the Bombay trade and this narrative is then disseminated through the media. Of course it depends on the ‘good offices’ of certain stars and films to an extent. Ghajini was a called huge by everyone but didn’t get this sort of favorable coverage. Going by these standards Ghajini was one of the biggest hits ever! MP had it released today and done exactly what it did then (actually it would have done way better today with its masala credentials but let’s leave that aside) would have probably been minimally a 130 crore grosser. In 2005 it opened to over 17 crores, the biggest initial of its time and one where it edged out VZ, and ended up at 28-32 crores depending on who you believe. So even in the worst case scenario you’d be looking at a 60:40 split on initial week versus final total. That means that with an 80 crore week 1 (since it did have the biggest initial then) it would easily do the number I’ve just presented. That would put it well ahead of even Ready let alone Ra One and don 2 and almost certainly Agneepath. And the film was being called a flop then. 2005 isn’t a million years ago!
So it’s hard to answer these questions without context. I could say a 90 crore film needs to do 150 minimally or whatever. But this standard isn’t being applied to films that ‘cost’ 150 crores or more! The bar has just been pulled down so incredibly low unless a film had 20 crores or day 1, 10 crores on day 2, 5 on day 3 and 0 on day 4 they say it’s a success and it entered the 100 crore club! No number is an absolute. These are all underperformers even if not flops. Once they were saying the same stuff about 70 crore grossers and so on till one day Ghajini suddenly changed everything. Today it’s a 100 crore club when 3I has been sitting pretty at 200 for a while. No film has even done 150 so far! Somehow you just scrape 100 and you’re ok. But 100 doesn’t mean anything. It’s just the new 70 as 70 was once the new 40. If BnB released today (again a film that would be even more helped today) the film would make probably 140-150 crores off a 70 crore week 1 (at the time it had a big week 1 number but not the biggest.. it trended very well). Again all of this is not that long ago. And even today we have films in very different genres like Rajneeti or singham or ZNMD trending very well. There is just no excuse for these abysmal standards. But it’s become a propaganda game where if it’s not a disaster it can be sold like a hit and then everyone from the German govt to the UK one starts subsidizing costs and satellite deals and everything else goes sky high and every kind of budget is conveniently accounted for. This is not box office reporting. It’s a scam!
And so once more within these contexts it’s hard to answer the Talaash question in any sincere way.
I agree….Aamir has always been adamant that everyone involved in his movies….production/distribution should not lose money so he will ensure that this is sold at a sensible price
A very good trailer in the sense it creates the excitement. Not as awesome as I was expecting but still does the job as far as curiousity for he film is concerned.
The Trailer says Reliance Entertainment in association with Excel Entertainment and Aamir khan Productons . Aamir khan distributed Delhi Belly with UTV and Talaash will be distributed by Aamir , Excel and Reliance . So this news of Reliance buying Talaash rights is totally fake since they are themseleves producing it . Funny thing about all this the media which is reporting Talaash rights got sold for record price 90 cr that beats of Don 2 80 cr were reporting this earlier http://www.hindustantimes.com/News-Feed/Cinema/Rs-300-crore-riding-on-SRK/Article1-569194.aspx . The productuion cost of Talaash is no more than 40 cr http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-which-khan-will-rule-the-2012-box-office/20120123.htm . Anyway this is too early to talk about this and media too seems to be speculating quoting high numbers . We will know more on this when the release of Talaash gets closer .
I am almost certain that 1 and 3 won’t do it for different reasons. Talaash looks like a dark film, hard to see it get to the 3I number, I can see a scenario for 150 crores. Having said that with a ‘true’ film things are always a bit unpredictable. Anything can happen but 200 is very improbable. Unless of course the film has more commercial hooks than seems to be the case at this point.
Aamir Khan all set to rock! Talaash winning all polls & surveys on most awaited films! He was on a break for 2 years plus Talaash had no hype. Still humongous response! Youtube trending medals and now #1 most awaited film in India and globally Surpasses Salman Khan’s Ek Tha Tiger , Srk’s Next & Dabangg 2 !!!
Rosie? Is that a nod to Guide? I like the sound of the premise-it seems ‘viable’ enough- if you know what I mean-I doubt you could write a synopsis for most of our action/thriller films without the premise coming off sounding outlandish and/or stupid. But I highly doubt this is the official one- why would it be released in such a low-key way with only one foreign website publishing it?
And why is Aamir being so quiet on the marketing front- less than 3 months to go- and hardly any one is aware of the film. I don’t think the teaser really clicked with a lot of people either. Hope his marketing genius does not fail him this time.
You’re right. There are doubts about how true this synopsis might be.
But the bit about Kareena’s role is similar to what other articles have been saying all along. There was an article in Indian Express last year about a child actor in an underwater scene in Talaash. If that article is to be believed then maybe it points towards the child’s death as mentioned in this ”synopsis”. [Just an assumption!]
Heard from a reliable source that this synopsis which appeared online does indeed have similarities to the actual story of Talaash. [He was quite tight-lipped and revealed only this much when I asked! I trust that guy because so far whatever he's said about this film or its promotions has turned out to be true.]
This ”synopsis” is on a couple of other Australian websites too!
As for marketing, in past also Aamir has promoted his films only 2 months before their release. He never starts 3-4 months in advance! In fact, even the first teasers of Ghajini, TZP, 3I etc. released only 2 months before their release. I think he came out with the teaser earlier this time only to dispel rumours about Talaash (including the ones which insisted that the film had been delayed further and wouldn’t even release on June 1!).
The teaser has only been put up online (without any special launch event or something). It has got record hits on Youtube and that’s about it as of now.
It is not being shown on TV channels also.
BTW, how is Kareena being named Rosie (if this synopsis is true) a nod to Guide? Kareena’s playing a prostitute here while Rosie in Guide was only daughter of a prostitute (if I’m not mistaken), not a prostitute herself!
Had same thoughts seeing even images from the making of this film. And even more after reading tidbits about it, including this ”synopsis”. Talaash doesn’t even have 3 open weeks like Ready had last year when it released around same time.
Thanks for the info Prateek The thing is- back in the 3I and Ghajini days most films started marketing later- these days marketing campaigns need to be over a long period of time and very aggressive- take the Delhi Belly campaign for instance.
BTW- not sure at all if Rosie is a nod to Guide- just a guess. She doesn’t have to be the exact same as the Waheeda Rehman character though- it could be that just the name and some characteristics/ elements of her story arc are similar.
I hope this film does well- it seems to be one of the few genuine attempts to make a good film this year.
He wants to focus on his new TV show, apparently. But this means we will have three Khan films in quick succession: SRK’s YRF film on Diwali, Aamir’s Talaash in November, and Salman’s Dabangg 2 on Dec. 21 (Of course Salman will also have ETT on Eid, which is in August this year, so not so close before Diwali).
I just looked it up — Diwali is on Nov. 13 this year, a Tuesday. So, will YRF release their film on the Tuesday and have an “extended weekend”, which would still leave them with barely two weeks before Aamir’s film releases, or release theirs on the previous Friday (Nov. 9) and get about three weeks before Aamir’s film? Even this best case scenario would mean the three Khan films releasing with barely three weeks in between each. Quite unusual, indeed!
this is so damn frustrating. why announce a release date in the first place then??!! June was the perfect month for this movie. Aamir had the space all to himself. Now in Nov like sm mentioned..theres that huge YashRaj film…then D2 coming in dec. its way too damn crowded. i won’t be surprised if it moved to jan 13. this is a huge mistake i think. same thing happened with Ghajini i remember..it kept getting delayed.
also, will aditya chopra wait for aamir to do his TV show instead of starting D3?? i also wouldnt be surprised if Aamir was replaced by SRK in D3. I’m sure this news did not go down well in the YashRaj camp.
I agree that it is very disappointing that Talaash and Dhoom 3 have been constantly delayed (postponed). I wish Aamir’s television show had been postponed instead. I wish movie actors would leave television to the television actors. I’m not sure that 3 big Khan movies will come out in the span 3-4 weeks. One or two of those movies will be moved. Hopefully everything will work out.
The November 30 date is also not confirmed. Just notice how they’ve merely ”quoted” Ritesh Sidvani in the press release (like previous press releases!) whereas neither Farhan Akhtar, nor Aamir Khan or Ritesh Sidvani themselves have come out in open and confirmed it! Ritesh did tweet about its postponement. But he did NOT mention the exact date it would now release.
This is very very disappointing, Aamir is really making it difficult for his producers. I also don’t understand this postponement for a TV series. In fact it would be a disadvantage as he would have had so much visibility that the interest in the movie might be less
” I also don’t understand this postponement for a TV series”
I do.
Remember the stage performance wherein he needed a month by his own admission
Films are different where u can do umpteen takes and rehearsals (behind doors and @home)
But in stage shows and interactive tv
Shows. A certain amount of spontaneity and improvisation comes in
Not that he can’t do it
But its just that this doesmt cum naturally to him
Also he loaths to come up with sowmthig substandard and takes his presence in a project quite seriously -this is actually a good thing in a way
IF this is ture…that he is delaying talaash for his TV show…well in this case…Aamir needs to choose. he’s signed these two movies before the TV show commitment. he needs to fulfill the movie commitments first and foremost. thats only fair to his producers who are prob pissed(mainly aditya chopra).
Correction : Aamir did the TV show before he even looked at script of Talaash or D3. He’s revealed in interviews last year itself that his life has revolved around this TV show only since the last year & a half.
But I totally agree he should not have announced release date if he was not sure. Or better still, he should not have signed movies at all & focussed entirely on TV show if he was so obsessed with it.
It would have been better if the movie released first. It would have given him the visibility for his TV show! And if he was not ready with his TV show, why not postpone the TV show??
But he’s been working on the show for more than 2 years now! Besides it will last only for 13 weeks or so. It’s not a lengthy series and neither is each episode supposed to feature Aamir! It’s little about rehearsals…I feel he’s more worried because this is also produced by him and he’s totally new to territory of television, hence the nervousness or need to focus entirely on the show.
He’s still not sure of Talaash release date! In his interview today, he talks in circles about Talaash release date saying they are looking to release it either on November 30 or December 6! – http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-most-ambitious-project-of-aamirs-career/20120314.htm
I guess it will get shifted to 2013. No way it could release with so many other big films!
Confirmed again – The actual release date of Talaash is still not confirmed. Aamir & co., now looking at either November 30 or first week of December to release the film.
Yes, this news is extremely disappointing to everyone who wants to see Aamir back on the movie screen with Talaash and Dhoom 3. I also agree that Talaash could easily be postponed to come out in Jan. 2013 especially if it helps avoid 3 big Khan movies from clashing within weeks of each other (and eating into each others profits). So the wait will be between 8-10 months for Talaash which is way too long. This is all unfortunate. I don’t have any interest in the television show. But I wish Aamir all the best.
Aamir confirms he has read the script of PK and liked it. Also mentions that He will wait for Raju Hirani to make the announcement. So he is indeed doing it
Aamir doing D3 is looking less likely…Talaash is certain to release prob in Jan of 2013 now. which means Aamir will be busy with the promotions and such until Jan of 2013. Will D3 be ready for release by Dec of 2013? Will Hirani wait for Aamir until mid to late 2013?
As a fan of his, I have some sort of interest in the TV show..but living in the states, I don’t really watch Indian shows. So thats why I was really looking forward to June 1. But the possibility of 3 Aamir movies in 2 years sounds good…
Apparently there were some ‘pilot’ episodes of the tv show
Aamir seemed to be missing time slots, over running segments and getting too involved with the ‘public’
The tv channel and the makers of the serial weren’t happy really
But being aamir, it seems he has taken it as a challenge
This is probably not out in te media much but have been told by anecdotal reports by someone involved in telly
As for delaying talaash–aamir will never admit but has something to do with pahelis better than expected run
Not really bothered if he is not coming this year
My only qualm is that his innings infront of the camera is getting more and more limited
And the camera is not particularly nice to >50 ones
Ps-want to see an aamir-vidya movie wherein th two match their histrionics
But even if there is an offer, the former won’t agree
Ps2- amongst all the worthwhile khans or kumars or kapoors, the only hero never to star with Amitabh is aamir-is it just a coincidence ?
‘Paheli’s better than expected run’? You mean Kahaani? I feel that the film has set such a high standard, audience expectation-wise–Talaash is probably getting a re-look, so that it doesn’t fall short.
Aamir & Big B were supposed to star in 2-3 different films. But unfortunately all of them either got shelved or never took off at all. I remember watching a Lehren video of the launch of Indra’s Kumar’s film starring Amitabh, Madhuri & Aamir & produced by ABCL. Maybe it was called Rishta? It was shelved I think.
Mansoor Khan was supposed to direct a film with Aamir, Big B & Rani called “Happy Diwali”, Aamir had spoken about it in 2002. Even that got shelved when Mansoor Khan gave up filmmaking & took up farming while Aamir took breaks for personal reasons post DCH.
I’d love to see Aamir & Big B in one film! But it’s strange why circumstances have never favoured an Aamir-Big B film!
Let us see. Before he made his debut as an actor, people around him used to wonder how he could be an actor. But he did manage well and is still around. We could wait for 2-3 more months before declaring what A is made for and what not.
@oldgold Lol! When did Oscars start giving awards to tv shows? And that too foreign origin ones? Satyameva Jayate is a tv show and by no means a documentary! Don’t make irrational conclusions madam!
Madam it is a proper full fledged TV shows with different episodes, and will run for 13 weeks or so! It is NOT a documentary or small film! Reportedly there will also be another follow-up chat show after each episode on a news channel (after the episode is shown on all channels of STAR) which will be based on the particular episode of the day. He’s getting STAR to tie up with a major news channel (probably Aaj Tak) and even Doordarshan so that the show reaches maximum people.
It’s a big project and there are reasons why Aamir calls it the most ambitious project of his life! They’ve spent 3 years on research alone! And Satyajit Bhatkal has been developing this idea since 2003 – when he first discussed it with Aamir and Aamir told him to go ahead and they’ll produce it!
Why am I not surprised at this harsh taunt from Aamir’s prime hater–and as expected, how bloody unfair.
Aamir’s film being postponed for his tv show–it is obviously a facade– even aamir fans feel so. Kahaani has raised the bar of audience expectations–and Talaash being in a similar genre–will get a redoing job; some weak bits probably noticed and passed– may get redone–my guess.
If tv show is indeeed the reason–why take six months to release a near ready film like Talaash. My feeling is some re shooting, editing, promoting–all will be done in six months, then film released.
Even Talaash online posters had appeared–bearing legend–releasing june 1, 2012.
i just hope and pray that the postponement is worth it, that Talaash is perfect, a critical and commercial success. Incidentally aamir has taken pains to point out (during mediameet today), that Talaash is a suspense drama, not a thriller.
Why self centred egoist? Both the TV show and film are his own projects! He is co-producing the TV show with STAR and co-producing Talaash with Excel! It’s not like he’s just an actor for Talaash and is keeping Excel on tenterhooks! Both projects are important to him and he has equal responsibilities towards each!
How does ego figure in all this?
A film can be delayed. But a TV show cannot be delayed forever. He’s taking all channels under STAR network for the show and probably tying up with 2 more networks. The show has to be dubbed in 8 different languages. Channels have to overhaul their schedules in a major way to accommodate a new show. So they could not have kept waiting for Aamir forever! It’s not like whenever you get ready, you can get the channel to air your show!
Aamir was willing to come up with the show during IPL, but STAR made it clear that since the show was their biggest property, they could not launch it during IPL. The complete destruction of the show’s sets due to the fire only added to the delays in the show’s completion and launch.
If show was to come after IPL it would have directly clashed with Talaash and Aamir would not have been able to manage both Talaash promotions and TV show, because several parts of his show are supposed to be shot and telecast live as well [such is the format]. Besides it makes no sense to come up with a show on social issues when the star also has a film releasing (and film is far from being based on an issue!).
He’s producing both Talaash and this show and it’s natural that he chose the show over Talaash. He & Ritesh Sidhwani have clarified many times that the decision was mutually agreed upon by all of them (Aamir, Farhan, Ritesh and Reema).
So if they are all okay, then why are ordinary people smelling a rat here? And are quick to label Aamir selfish or egoist?
He’s already bearing the brunt of both Talaash and TV show delays and knows what challenges increasing delays can pose for him and his projects!
@ Prateek. Good reasoned reponse, based on published facts. Looks like postponement is due to various factors including tv show.
These lines from oldgold–absolutely laughable–’ He’s probably trying for an oscar from another angle. Award for documentary, like the Pakistani Oscar winning one.
I wish he would get one and be done with it.
In his efforts for this feather he walks rough shod over people involved with him in films.’
Why do Aamir haters-baiters talk continuously about so called Oscar obsession on part of Aamir ? Aamir has frequently been questioned on this topic, and he has made it clear, even as recently as last year–that he cares about one thing primarily and that is the film; he is not too concerned about sharing screen space and glory as long as the film benefits; commercial Indian awards don’t matter at all in his book and in fact he values the smaller awards like Gollapudi debut director award, far more. Oscar is instrumental in giving a film world-wide recognition–and that is it’s only value in his book.No, he doesn’t come across as somebody trying to get an oscar feather or whatever. He is simply a committed filmmaker with a social conscience and the brfains to make an entertaining commercially viable film.. at least that is what he strives to do, whatever be the result.
We should be lauding and encouraging such people, instead of decrying them in internet forums.
@ Oldgold–If you don’t take Aamir at face value–that is your concern. In any case, we none of us accept anything at face value–including the public image of all Bolly ‘kings’, whoever.
I am not a cynic. I think i have enough sense and sensibility to differentiate the genuine from the fake To me, Aamir comes across as a simple soul, with a lot of good in head and heart–but without the wit or the mouth of an SRK who charms his way into fan and media hearts– and SRK has his own quirks–the occasional and wierd use of the word ‘vulgar’ , to give an instance.
I have no major issues with any of these Bolly people, do not run them down at every given opportunity. But, yes, i do have soft corner for one favourite–and i cannot help speak up for him occasionally, when i feel that some unfair remarks need to be countered.
Is it so Oldgold ji? Then what about SRK’s ”jokes”? Do you take them at face value, i.e., as ”jokes” only or do you try to make sense of them and analyse the ”hidden” meanings behind them?
You are leading me on, I know.
So what? If my opinion is asked I’ll give it. LOL.
>Then what about SRK’s ”jokes”?
I don’t take them at face value either.
It’s my feeling that’s not really what he is like deep inside.
I’m not really interested in going into detailed analysis of his reasons.
He’s trying to **brazen out** through the situation he is in (less success/insecurity etc etc), and to show he won’t be embarassed because of his failures – very childish, really.
DON’T FORGET, both are actors
One trying to look intellectual and seedha sadhaa, the other *trying* to look ‘Kool’, sexy (but having the wrong idea of what it really is, anything western is deemed cool) , etc because both know that’s their public image which brings/brought them success.
Ok, maybe I was too quick with that answer. I am now wondering whether aamir’s complete involvement in the tv series and the pressure on him from tv channels–whether this has really got a lot to do with the postponement. But postponement by 3 months would ‘ve been the better move. Postponement by six months..does this mean that some Talaash editing, a bit of re-shooting maybe, all still needed, perhaps to come up with a film that can stand comparison with latest flavour of the month–Kahaani. Just my theory—I could be wrong.
Stories about TV show are true & not made up! The film was ready probably because they did announce the June 1 date in posters & teaser & posters were also put up in some theatres across the country. Obviously they couldn’t have put up posters if the film wasn’t ready!
I think it’s just that he wants to focus on TV show. He had no qualms in coming during IPL & thought he’d be able to convince STAR also to launch his show then. But they refused (as reported by India Today). So he couldn’t manage both Talaash promotions & shooting for TV show’s live segments at once. He postponed the film instead.
And here people are thinking he’s using TV as an excuse!
BTW TV is not a “refuge” for him. He’s had a great run as an actor & isn’t struggling to prove his films as “hits”. Needs no “refuge”.
Aamir was specifically asked questions about Salman and Vidya–and he answered. Otherwise he does not need to mention them, express his concern or whatever publicly. He and Salman seem to come across as geninely good friends and neighbours.
Whatever the release date for Talaash–i just hope Aamir doesn’t overpromote it, but just right, quietly maybe. As it is the film has been ijn public consciousness too long before release. Too much publicity results in heightened expectations– and that is not a good thing.
I just hope the postponement is worth it, that the cause is fit for the effect–that the tv show is as good and effective as Aamir would like it to be. As his well wisher and fan, my best wishes for same.
A “self centred egoist” would have shouted from the rooftops if he/she was confirmed for a director like Raju Hirani’s next film !!
Instead what Aamir in his unique style said in his presser yesterday was ( that too when specifically asked by a reporter if he was doing Hirani’s next ) : ” I would love to work with Hirani again…it is a very good script… However it is best that the director makes the official announcement “.
Can’t really really blame SRK fangirls for getting palpitations at the prospect of Aamir coming out with Talaash, D3 & now Hirani’s next, can we ?? :)
I was waiting eagerly for Talaash.
Though Kahani could have been called ‘Talaash’ as well
Hirani’s films, I always wait for.
D3 – nah. Don’t want to see him acting as a cool bad guy. He doesn’t ahve the personality for that, unless he thinks a severe frown will do the job and make him look tough, Gajhani style.
LOL @ Kahani could’ve been titled as Talaash! As if you already know the story of Talaash, eh? Did you co-write it with Reema Kagti & Zoya? Or do you think every suspense film is the same?
Btw aamir says he is not ‘mentally ready’ for dhoom
Feel he is also not ready fOr Kat
He said somewhere ‘jokingly’ that he needs some work to star opposite Kat (like padded shoes for a start)
Joking-I’m a aamir can myself folks
Ha Uday chopra maybe the guy with the highest hit rate who is unemployed inspite of that
Have a sense that aamir actually has developed cold feet at dhoom and wants to opt out
By delayiing etc, he wants yashraj to take the painful decision not him ie the decision to replace him!!!
And contrary to popular perception, knowing aamir, the tv show maybe only one of the reasons. He may have realised (late) that his chances of doing distinctly better than hritik in this sort of genre is definitely possible , but not fool proof!!!
Plus he has always had issues starring opposite much talller females
The reason for the likes of rani/priety etc havin a field day was not only due to their undoubted talent
He’s had issues acting with tall actresses?! LOL! He did work with Sonali Bendre in Sarfarosh & twice with Pooja Bedi in JJWS & Aatank Hi Aatank. Even Juhi Chawla is said to be a bit taller than Aamir. But he did many movies with her. The white actresses in Lagaan & RDB were also taller than him. So what difference did it make to him or the films?! It doesn’t affect at all!
Of all jokes on Aamir, the height one is the most useless & redundant.
Height difference is certainly not an issue bothering him. Everyone knows these things can be adjusted & one can work around them. Salman is also not known to be very tall but he’s worked with much taller actresses like Sushmita & Katrina.
By “mentally prepared” he only meant it’s not his priority yet (due to TV show & Talaash).
Wonder why is everyone so eager to jump to conclusions & think YRF will replace him! LOL! Seems like they secretly hope for their favorite hero to be taken in a plum project like D3!
Here’s another article which proves that Aamir indeed postponed all other projects only due to his TV show. Apparently, he’s now even asked brands he endorses to NOT to buy any ad slots for his show, as he doesn’t want to show any ads featuring him & dilute the seriousness & message of the show which is based on social issues! Such is his credibility & commitment towards his show and its message! – http://www.boxofficeindia.co.in/more-on-aamir-khan/
And as previous reports have suggested, some parts of his show are supposed to be live. He obviously couldn’t have brought the show & film around same time! He couldn’t have found time to shoot the live segments of his show in midst of Talaash promotions plus it would have seemed he’s using social causes on TV to get attention or publicity for his film!
It’s indeed only the fire incident which delayed his show & that in turn caused postponement of Talaash release.
One can write volumes and postulate infinite theories but to naked eye and seeing the pattern n time, It’s KAHAANI Affect…. Aamir fans are also now behaving like Bachchan, Srk and Akki fans… Defend Defend and Defend just for the heck of it. and now read this news Source @Zoom Tv :
@ZoomTV Aamir wants to re-shoot the climax of ‘Talaash’ as it is similar to Vidya’s ‘Kahaani’….
And what ”Kahani effect”? You’re saying as if you know the story! LOL!
And let me tell you frankly, any Khan film will do better than a Vidya Balan film no matter how similar or strong or weak it is, in terms of content! Okay? Khans’ films work on their names alone. They are at such a position that it’s others who fear them. They don’t need to fear anyone! And you’re trying to imply he got afraid of Kahani!
Even the Khans’ underperformers make more money, draw more eyeballs than a Vidya Balan hit!
Media is making up rumours simply because the film’s delay has given them opportunity to do so. [Earlier they had compared it to Agent Vinod!! ]
The climax of Talaash is an elaborate underwater sequence with a possible supernatural element in it. Tell me if these things were there in Kahani! Ha!
It was shot last year itself in London. And every report had mentioned how brilliant it had turned out to be. Why would they re-shoot it if they were totally satisfied with it?!
It’s clear – Aamir felt he’d be able to manage the TV show with films but he could not (especially due to accidents which led to delay of his show). So now the film has been delayed!
Neither do you know the story and what I said was not definitive but seeing the pattern and timing… and I don’t care about BO but about the substance… Khans sells doesn’t mean its always the best…
You seem to forget the one Operative word that is “Search” in both movies…
LOL! Dear Bliss, every suspense film involves some kind of “search”! Does it mean all of them are same?! Hahaha! Not a sufficient reasoning to call two films similar.
It’s only due to timing of further delay which has led people to deduce Talaash got postponed due to Kahani! Vidya Balan’s PR milking it to get more publicity for Kahani & implying she scared off a Khan!
I do not know the story of Talaash. But I do know of various elements in that film which are there in it but not in Kahani. Hence I commented.
Aamir is too caught up with his show right now. No time to look at Talaash or re-shoot it till he’s done with that show.
The shooting of Talaash got over last year in October-November.
Aamir & Ritesh made it clear that they were postponing it so that they have ample time for its marketing (which they couldn’t have got due to clash with his TV show).
Personally I also think Aamir might have delayed Talaash so that his show gets due attention. It’s his debut as a TV producer & host. He must’ve felt those who are too eager to see him should satisfy themselves with the show! (He did say in his press conference on his birthday, that those who’ve been eagerly waiting & missing him onscreen have the show to look forward to)
He’s made a mark in films already. But is totally new to TV. So seems extra conscious for the show, wants to focus more on it & ensure it doesn’t get overshadowed by his films & gets due attention!
I believe Kahaani poured cold water over Amir’s aspirations of being hatke. So now he’ll make changes to remove any remote similarity between the two.
He’s lucky that he can hold everyone to ransom while it is done.
Vidya has already stolen a march over him with this genre.
Of course his film will collect 3 even 4 times what Kahaani will collect even without the changes, but his ego is much much larger than him
I don’t know the reasons behind this change of date nor do I care enough to speculate baselessly about them- but I don’t think that it is right to dismiss Vidya so easily. Obviously she is nothing compared to Aamir in terms of box office draw. But Aamir has always been concerned about the ‘prestige’ of his projects- and in this sense Vidya and Kahaani are very much a valid concern for him.
Kahaani is one of the most critically acclaimed Hindi films to be released in the past few years- both in terms of the word of mouth and the critic’s reviews- and Vidya’s ‘prestige’ level is currently very high- in fact several people have christened her the ‘female Aamir’- whether this is warranted or not is a different argument- but the point is that this is a comparison that is happening quite often these days .
I’m not saying that Aamir did decide to reshoot the climax scene of Talaash out of insecurity- I find that highly improbable- but let’s not pretend that he is some untouchable god who can never be bothered by what mere mortals like Vidya are up to. Vidya has been delivering critical success after success and it reeks of arrogance for his fans to be so condescending towards her- and ridicule the idea that a Khan will ever be affected by a Kahaani.
I think the claim is somewhat laughable to be kind and pathetic to be honest. I think from what we have seen so far, they are different story lines.
Yes,Kahaani is a hit and Vidya’s recent run is laudable. As for some in media calling VB a female Aamir, thats what media does.
Mithun/Anil and a dozen others were called the next AB. To take that tag seriously or read anything into it is pointless. Of course
SRK fans are going to twist this story every which way possible and that is expected since they dont have anything better to do and they ned fodder to stoke their insecurity.
I dont think any Khan is invincible and if any female could challenge them, it is either katrina with her BO run and Vidya with her recent successes,assuming she continues to deliver in a similar vein. As of now, she is not a patch on Aamir. A small role in a decent film that made 35 crores ( NKJ), a stellar role in a big success which scored because of the titillation mainly and another 45-50 crore success in a fairly decent film with a good performance – looks good on any actors resume but doesnt make them a threat or a successor to Aamir.
I’m not making any claims that Vidya is a succesor or a threat to Aamir. She’s very obviously not- not yet anyway. But it’s pretty apparent that Kahaani has caused a stir and that when Talaash releases the two will be compared because of their similarities in genre and feel.
Talaash will definitely make more than Kahaani- most probably it will overtake Kahaani’s total in its first weekend itself. But thrillers are not Hindi cinema’s forte and Kahaani is easily one of the best that I’ve seen from contemporary Bollywood and also Balan’s best performance- there is a very good chance that Talaash- even with all its superior star power- will not be as enjoyable or positively received. And given Aamir’s obsession with the prestige of his projects I do not think that it is unreasonable to assume that Kahaani has influenced some decisions he has taken with regard to Talaash.
I’m not saying that Kahaani is the reason that Talaash is being postponed for sure- but I do not think that it fair to dismiss these claims as pathetic or laughable either.
Considering your prestige argument Ami, are you trying to imply that a film made by Aamir Khan Productions & Excel, with team like Anurag Kashyap, Farhan Akhtar, Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti, Javed Akhtar will have less quality?
Talaash does not just have star value! It has several other talented names working on it! You’re trying to say these guys got afraid of Kahani? Or got inferiority complex & self doubts seeing that film or its reception?
Come on!
Their film may or may not be as good as Kahani. But they have no reason to get afraid of it!
Also there was a 3 month gap between Talaash & Kahani! It’s not like they were releasing around same time!
@Oldgold
He’s not holding anyone to ransom. Both Talaash & TV show are his own productions. As a producer he has every right to decide which project will come first and
which one later.
As I said, fans of other stars are having a field day linking Talaash delay to either Rowdy Rathore, Agent Vinod, Housefull & now Kahani! If it gets delayed further still, then you guys will say he got afraid of Dabangg 2 & YRF romantic film! Keep up the tamasha!
Well if there was pressure to be “hatke” then he would not have postponed Talaash to June 1! He was well aware of the films releasing in 2012. He’d have stuck to the 26th January date only to be the “first one” to come with a “different” film (this genre).
It’s not just Aamir Khan. Lot of other stalwarts involved in making of Talaash – Farhan, Zoya, Javed Akhtar, Anurag Kashyap, Reema etc. I don’t think they can be doubted for coming up with quality content. So this notion of them being “baffled” by Kahani or its acclaim is useless & comical!
Aamir gets done with his show only around August end.
Can anyone tell me how will they re-shoot the entire film or major scenes, overhaul its story in just 2-3 months & release it by November – all so soon?
It’s just fans of other stars who’re jumping to make up all sorts of reasons to imply Aamir got afraid & postponed Talaash! And of course, PR teams of other stars who’re milking Talaash delay to promote/hype up their films!
I won’t be surprised if people wrote in May that Talaash was postponed due to “fear” of Akshay Kumar’s Rowdy Rathore! LOL!
It’s only that TV show for which he’s postponing the film. He & entire Talaash team confirmed it themselves. But still people have to make their own special theories! Carry on!
@Ami
Khans are not invincible. All I am saying is that the notion being spread by media that an Aamir Khan got afraid of a Vidya Balan is rubbish! Any of 3 Khans’ film will do better than Vidya ji’s biggest hit. So media & some sections trying to imply that a Khan “fled” because of her is laughable!
As an actress Vidya has achieved a lot. But it doesn’t mean she is comparable to heroes or a “threat” for them. She’s also been going overboard with her comments on Khans – how she doesn’t need any Khan or how Khans should add Balan to their names! Ha! Good that she’s made a mark. But it’s going way overboard if she compares herself to Khans or her PR tries to imply that Khans are affected by her films.
She keeps saying she does not need Khans but keeps using their names for publicity & show of “power”. Hypocritical to say the least.
I haven’t read all of your comment, just the beginning as I’m in a hurry.
NOBODY knew that kahaani was a thriller. It came as a surprise to everyone so your first para doesn’t do the defence of ‘Talaash’ any good
Nobody “in the general public” knew that Kahani was a thriller. Aamir & co. are very much a part of the industry. And as industry guys they do know which other films are being made.
No, I don’t think so.
Don’t start with the film fraternity business. Even Amir doesn’t tell anyone about his films.
Knowing ‘of’ a film is not the same as knowing ‘about’ a film.
”Knowing ‘of’ a film is not the same as knowing ‘about’ a film.”
Agreed madam.
But if it applies to Aamir Khan and industry people, then it applies even more to ordinary people like us!
So no use jumping to conclusions and saying Talaash is similar to Kahani or inferior to it, without even knowing concrete stuff about it or watching the film!
“She keeps saying she does not need Khans but keeps using their names for publicity & show of “power”. Hypocritical to say the least.”
Its not hypocritical. She keeps getting asked questions about starring with the Khans. As an actress who’s trying to carve the path for solo heroines in Bollywood its obvious frustrating for her when people keep trying to measure her success by whether she’s starring with a Khan or not- especially because she is not glamour heroine material.
She is not putting down the Khans at all. She’s always said that she is a huge SRK fan and that Aamir is an inspiration. Is it a crime for an actress to say that she can do without the most powerful men in the industry and stand on her two feet? I actually find it refreshing that she doesn’t act like being Khan arm candy is the pinnacle of success.
“Any of 3 Khans’ film will do better than Vidya ji’s biggest hit.”
Obviously Talaash will make 3-5 times as much as Kahaani. There is no question of Kahaani being a threat to Talaash at the box office- this is absurd because Kahaani will be out of of the theatres long before June.
But in terms of prestige there is a chance that Kahaani might outstrip Talaash. Talaash does have a great team behind it- but Kahaani is one of the most enoyable Bollywood thrillers I’ve seen- thrillers are not Hindi cinema’s forte and even with a team like Aamir, Reema and Zoya -Farhan/ Anurag only did the dialogues so they do not count- there is a chance that Kahaani could win in terms of content and novelty.
BTW- I really like both Aamir and Vidya and I’m really looking forward to Talaash – it looks very good. I’m not trying to put Aamir down- but I do not see the reason to put Vidya down either.
@amy- completely agree with u that in terms of prestige kahaani has a fair chance of outstripping talaash(a well-made point here). but as far as kahaani being a possible reason for aamir postponing talaash- i find this statement both baffling and baseless. firstly, i think aamir is one guy who is hardly paranoid/wary abt other project(he always believes that if a film is good it eill succeed, him released ‘TZP’ with ‘welcome’ when akshay was in the middle of a golden_run, is a testament to the above point).
Agree with you completely. There had been several patriotic films and films on Bhagat Singh prior to RDB. Even Aamir’s own underperformer MP had been there just some 6-7 months prior to RDB. If he were so afraid and conscious, then why would he come up with RDB (after himself giving an underperformer in genre of patriotic films!)?
If he were afraid of comparisons at ”SLIGHTEST SIMILARITY” with other films, then why would he have picked up a TZP when industry had already seen award winning films like Iqbal & Black about relationship & journey of a mentor/teacher with his student who was suffering from some disability?
The argument that Aamir got afraid either in terms of quality or box office comparisons and that’s the MAIN reason for postponement of Talaash is hollow! Given the man’s own past career moves & existence of an actual valid reason (his TV show which he’s producing & hosting).
Look, it’s no crime for her to be successful on her own. It’s her going to the extent of saying that ”Khans should add Balan to their names” which is OTT. I hope she remembers where she was when Khans were breaking records at box office or their films were getting nominated at Oscars and BAFTAs.
It’s one thing to reply to reporters’ questions. But it’s altogether different when you say they should add your surname to their name!
I agree that Talaash having a great team behind it DOES NOT mean that it would be a quality film or as great as the names behind it. But then, it’s also not necessary to assume that it would be DECIDEDLY inferior to Kahani! That too, without anyone actually knowing confirmed things about its story!
I am pointing out the absurdity of rumours & ”theories” being pedalled by certain sections of media and over-zealous fans & PR of some stars (including VB’s). That Talaash is all same as Kahani or Aamir or entire team got afraid of Kahani!
Why and most importantly, HOW will they overhaul the entire story of Talaash now? In such a short time? And how come people have concluded that climax of Talaash is similar to Kahani? So much so that Aamir is ”reportedly” re-shooting or changing it? Ha!
He will be done with his TV show only around mid or end of August. If people care to use their brains, then I’d like to know their opinion, how he will he re-shoot the climax, overhaul story as per changed climax and get it ready for release in just 2-3 months?
Any suspense film has to involve a ”search”. It does not mean all suspense films are the same! And so far, we’ve read about underwater sequences, possible extra-marital affair, death of a child, a film star’s murder, supernatural elements and psychological stuff in Talaash. I don’t think they are enough to imply or conclude similarity to Kahani!
This absurdity is what I am pointing at. And of course, the Kahani PR trying to cash on delay of Talaash to get more hype for their film.
I agree that the rumours of the Talaash reshoot do sound improbable. I wasn’t suggesting that the rumors were true- I was objecting to the condescending attitude towards Vidya.
I don’t see what is wrong with Vidya saying that the Khans should add Balan to their name. Its not like she went about giving such statements unprovoked. This is from an article featured in CNN IBN:
“On being asked whether she is the new female Khan in the industry, Vidya chuckled, “Well, the Khans can now add Balan at the end of their names, instead of me adding Khan to my name.”
The media ASKED her if she was going to add Khan to her name because she had a blockbuster – and she REPLIED to this question JOKINGLY to assert the fact that she had an identity of her own.
The Khans have all said much, much, much more presumptuous things about their own star power. But of course when a man says something its confidence and when a woman says it, it is arrogance. Vidya has said time and again that she is very appreciative of the Khans and she has never belittled them. It is absurd to object to such a harmless statement that she made just because she is woman who dares to not worship the ground that the Khans walk on.
No one expects VB to kiss the ground on which the Khans walk. It’s not just her comments. But I raised possibility of her fans and PR using Khans to hype her – by either implying they got affected by her film or its success or by saying they are not needed etc.
One cannot discount the fact that Kahani/VB PR is also milking the delay of Talaash to hype their film further and even going to the extent of saying that climax of Talaash was same as their film and that their film had given goosebumps to Talaash team so much so that they have to reshoot it now!
BTW, there’s no need to bring gender issues in every discussion. She can trash the Khans if she has achieved equal success. There is a world of difference in achieving great success on your own or in your own right and trumping someone else at their own game! A Marie Curie can try to put herself in same league as an Einstein, but not a female IIT topper – just to offer an analogy.
The Indian media likes to sensationalize things for no reason. I don’t see why you would jump to the conclusion that Vidya/ Kahaani’s PR team fed the media these theories . Its more likely that some journalist was having a slow news day- heard that Talaash was postponed soon after Kahaani released- put two and two together and started these rumours.
In any case the tabloids cannot go two days without having some rivalry rumours about the Khans. There were also rumours that Aamir was shifting his dates to sabotage SRK’s film. Are you going to suggest that SRK’s PR started these rumours? That every star’s PR is conspiring to use Aamir’s name to sell their films?
It seems really unreasonable to me to automatically assume the worst of Vidya just because you are an Aamir fan and the extremely unprofessional, unreliable media has concocted some rumours involving both of them.
And BTW – it was not Vidya’s PR but Anurag Kashyap would introduced the Aamir-Vidya comparison- and the Indian media probably ran away with it and decided that Talaash was being postponed for Kahaani. Are you suggesting that Anurag is on Vidya’s payroll? I think that she is unnecessarily being made the ‘villain’ or opportunist here.
I totally agree that media makes up useless news about every star. I pointed at VB because she’s been going on and on about the Khans and her PR has been going on and on calling her some hero etc.
I don’t say every star is using Aamir Khan’s name. Frankly speaking, there is more possibility of less big stars or recently successful/unsuccessful stars using Talaash delay to their advantage than an SRK or Salman or Aamir using each other’s films’ name to hype or sell their film. Hence I pointed at Vidya Balan whose PR has been in an overdrive since TDP days.
Look, Anurag called VB ”female Aamir Khan”.That comment by Anurag nowhere implies similarity of Talaash and Kahani so your point that he compared them and media compared Kahani to Talaash due to that comment does not sound convincing!
I never said she ”trashed” the Khans! I am saying it’s her fans and PR that’s been after the Khans to prop her up! And she herself has also commented on them, even if jokingly or on prodding by media.
“That comment by Anurag nowhere implies similarity of Talaash and Kahani so your point that he compared them and media compared Kahani to Talaash due to that comment does not sound convincing!”
He compared Vidya to Aamir. This is all the stimulus that the sensationalist Indian media needs to do this:
“Its more likely that some journalist was having a slow news day- heard that Talaash was postponed soon after Kahaani released- put two and two together and started these rumours.”
So I think my point is quite clear. Anurag did not try to compare the films -but by comparing the two stars- he gave the media ideas for their new rumour comparing the two films. Surely this is not so difficult to understand.
“I am saying it’s her fans and PR that’s been after the Khans to prop her up!”
Obviously if you make wild and baseless assumptions about her PR then you will reach these conclusion that they are targeting Aamir to prop her up. There have been a million conspiracy theories circulating about why Aamir postponed Talaash. If the media can make up rumours about him wanting to sabotage SRK, not being satisfied with the film and so on- why shouldn’t they have made up the Kahaani rumour as well? The same thing happened with ZNMD last year – there were rumours that it didn’t want to come soon after Ready, that Zoya fought with all the editors, that it was a copy of The Hangover. Its obvious when such an awaited film is postponed multiple times that the media will come up with some silly rumours to account for it- and this time circumstances are such that Kahaani gets dragged into these rumours.
Two suspense thrillers- one postponed just after the other is released- both stars being compared by a newsworthy filmmaker- it isn’t difficult to see what inspired these rumours- I don’t see why Vidya’s PR needs to have had a hand in this.
Anurag’s comment has nothing to do with media comparing Kahani to Talaash. This rumour was first started by some guy called ”cilemasnob” on Twitter (who’s been forever after Talaash, first calling it a rehash of KCK and now saying Kahani caused postponement of Talaash!).
I know media makes lot of theories and fans of stars take it to another new level altogether whenever a big film is postponed. It happened to Ra One last year when it was postponed from June to October and just on basis of that train sequence media started saying that SRK is re-shooting it or postponing it to due fear of comparisons and similarities with Shankar’s Robot!
I am pointing fingers at VB’s PR because everyone knows her PR has indeed been in an overdrive since TDP days, she’s commented on Khans in past herself and despite team of Talaash giving clarifications, media is still going to extent of saying that Talaash is similar to Kahani and needs an overhaul/re-shooting to avoid comparisons! And since Kahani is running at the box office as of now, this milking of Talaash delay is only likely to help hype and promote it further TO PROMOTE the agenda of her PR to prove her as the ”hero”. Unlike other films which are not releasing yet (SRK-YRF film, SOS, Dabangg 2 etc.).
Of course, my comments on VB’s PR are as much based on assumptions as comments of others (media included) on Talaash being ”scared off” by or being similar to Kahani.
It’s also possible that media is mischievously trying to shift focus on other stars and their films & diverting attention from actual cause of Talaash delay, aka, Aamir’s TV show!
And Ami, as much as you try to defend Vidya, take it from me in writing that her PR will compare her to Kareena and yak again about her ”power” in coming days, whether Agent Vinod succeeds or not! [If it succeeds they’ll say Bebo needs a Khan and needs to play a bimbo to get hits while VB can get hits without Khans and if AV fails they’ll trash Bebo even more in comparison to VB!). And her PR will be in overdrive even around the release of Heroine, comparing Bebo’s heroine oriented film’s fate to her heroine oriented film’s date!
“Considering your prestige argument Ami, are you trying to imply that a film made by Aamir Khan Productions & Excel, with team like Anurag Kashyap, Farhan Akhtar, Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti, Javed Akhtar will have less quality?”
Thrillers are not Bollywood’s forte- Don 2 which was also a thriller with the Excel-Farhan team was far less effective than Kahaani. Reema and Zoya are both decently good filmmakers but I have no idea how adept they will be at writing and directing a thriller- from what I can see they’re strongest depicting human relationships and internal conflicts onscreen. Anurag has only shared dialogue credits with Farhan – doubt his influence on the film will be very much.
Again- I like the teaser and I want this film to be good. I like Aamir, Rani and Kareena. But I do not think that this team is any guarantee that the film will definitely be superior to Kahaani in terms of quality- and that could be bothering Aamir. Its unlikely for sure- but I don’t think that it is as pathetic/laughable/ comical as you’re making it out to be.
Aamir knew that fact already before signing the film. He must have handled the film well aware of this fact.
And as far as capability or past records of Zoya or Reema or Farhan are concerned, I think it’s useless to attribute such things to delay of Aamir’s film! He’s had entire history of making good films with failed or totally new directors! We all know records of Abhinay Deo or Ashutosh Gowariker before DB and Lagaan. And of John Matthew Matthan both before and after Sarfarosh!
I agree that a good team is no guarantee of Talaash being great, but even Sujoy Ghosh has only surprised audiences with Kahani! No one expected him to make a good film!
Whatever Zoya or Reema are, they have better reputation than what Sujoy had before Kahani.
And AK has past record of making good products with unexpected filmmakers/writers.
There’s no guarantee of Talaash being great, BUT there is also NO guarantee of it being definitely inferior as you’re constantly trying to imply!
“BUT there is also NO guarantee of it being definitely inferior as you’re constantly trying to imply!”
I am NOT trying to imply any such thing. If you look at my earlier comments on this thread you’ll see that I loved the teaser- and I even defended the commercial potential of this film. I also said that it is highly improbable that Talaash is being postponed due to Kahaani. I’m largely in agreement with what you are saying – my only objection is that you should not dismiss Kahaani because there is a CHANCE that it could beat Talaash in the prestige stakes.
“Whatever Zoya or Reema are, they have better reputation than what Sujoy had before Kahani.”
Yes but the point is that Sujoy surprised everybody and proved them wrong – Reema and Zoya are yet to prove themselves as makers of effective thrillers. And prestige is not just about content but also novelty- Kahaani being a superbly atmospheric female-centric thriller with a pregnant heroine set in Kolkata and the first of its genre this year scores over Talaash which has a Policeman hero inhabiting the much seen Mumbai underbelly milieu and comes after another suspense thriller. None of this means that Kahaani will be a better film than Talaash for sure- but its not entirely out of question either.
BTW- I am really looking forward to this film- I want it to be good and I want it to succeed and I have higher expectations from it than I did from Kahaani. And if two female filmmakers can be recognized for having crafted an excellent thriller – that will also be a great thing. Again- I’m not trying to put Talaash or its team down- I’m merely pointing out that there is no need to completely dismiss Kahaani on terms of commercial appeal alone because it COULD trump Talaash in terms of prestige.
Zoya & Reema could surprise too. There is no need to dismiss them even without seeing their film. They can be trashed later if the film is indeed not upto the mark.
”Novelty”? So? Should the Talaash team scrape it altogether and never release it? Now that they’ve lost the novelty factor?
Or will delaying it by 2-3 more months suddenly make it more novel and avoid any comparison with Kahani or any other cop film or thriller?
I don’t think so. Then why attribute Kahani as MAIN reason for delay of Talaash?
“Zoya & Reema could surprise too. There is no need to dismiss them even without seeing their film. ”
I am not dismissing them! I am looking forward to the film! I hope it is better than Kahaani. The whole point of Kahaani was that it was a lovely surprise since a small film coming from Sujoy Ghosh. But from a film starring three talented star actors with a team comprising Aamir, Reema, Zoya and Farhan you obviously expect more.
All I’m saying is that Bollywood thrillers are hardly ever good- so even such a team is not a guarantee of a good product. But I’m not dismissing the film in the least- it is my most awaited Hindi film this year- and I want to see Reema get the kind of recognition than Zoya got for ZNMD last year and for Rani to make a comeback. Its also very rare to see a Hindi film involving big stars being made with sincerity- which is why I am always keen for Aamir films to succeed.
It’s not just about you, or your comments but general nature of comments being doled out by fans of some stars and media.
Of course Talaash carries a huge burden of expectations on its shoulders. It never had the advantage of low or no expectations like Kahani (which is one of the reasons for its over-celebration so much so to imply that a Khan film got scared of it! ).
All I’m saying its too early to dismiss Talaash or imply that its whole story has to be overhauled or something all due to Kahani when there’s clear evidence that there are other projects to which Aamir Khan wishes to pay more attention to.
I think he’s way more nervous about his TV show than any of his films! Totally new terrain for him (particularly because he’s producing it as well). Attributing his nervousness to Kahani or other films was like trying to hard to put him down or prop up everyone else in comparison to him. So I commented.
He has actually more to lose by delaying Talaash than he had to, if it released on June 1. If Talaash releases in November-December, it has additional pressure and competition both in terms of quality and box office. And say, let’s suppose it gets ”still” postponed to 2013 then it’s a gone case as it will have to deal with benchmarks of more stars’ films at BO and quality, more expectations and scrutiny due to bigtime delays and many people might have less interest in it.
All in all, it’s not a very prudent or safe decision by Aamir to have announced release dates and delaying film repeatedly. He should’ve kept quiet about it if he weren’t sure to release or focus on it. Or maybe he should just have done the TV show and not taken up film at all (and vice versa) if he could not manage both.
Hope it does well whenever ”scaredy cat” Aamir decides to release it!
“Hope it does well whenever ”scaredy cat” Aamir decides to release it”
I hope so too I actually commented on another thread that it was great to see films like Paan Singh Tomar and Kahaani do well while films like Jodi Breakers and Players failed- and that I hope that Talaash does better than Housefull.
Hehe! More than doing better than Housefull, hope it manages to at least somehow equal the toenail of Kahani – the greatest suspense film ever made in India!
secondly, i believe that thought both kahani and suspense thrillers, yet one can easily make out that both r as different as chalk and cheese. on don2, i found it a horrible film, it was a rare action thriller without having any ‘thrills’.(only film of excel which i have disliked till now). by the way, as u seem to be a fan of susp. thrillers, how did u find ‘karthik calling karthik’?(i liked the film apart from the culmination, found farhan’s acting effective)
I liked Karthik Calling Karthik mostly for Farhan’s fine performance and his chemistry with Deepika- also enjoyed the elegantly minimalistic atmosphere of the film- but it had far too many loopholes for me to take it seriously as a suspense thriller.
This is one genre that Bollywood is really terrible at. One of the reasons why I’m a little nervous about the quality of Talaash is that I found all of Excel’s previous attempts at suspense/ thriller/ mystery movies to be subpar- KCK, Don 2 and Game- although KCK is easily the best of these three.
I hope that Talaash is much better than all of these. And with the cast and crew behind the film – it will be disappointing if its not more fun than Kahaani as well- what worked in Kahaani’s favour were the minimal expectations- it being a Sujoy Ghosh film. With Talaash its the opposite.
BTW- the best suspense thriller I’ve seen lately is Martha Marcy May Marlene- have you watched it?
nope, haven’t heard of ‘martha marcy.’ a thriller i recently liked was ‘the girl with a dragon tattoo.’ thoroughly enjoyed ‘the constant gardener’(both ralph fiennes and rachel weisz were fantastic).’ also liked the german spy-thriller ‘the lives of others’(won foreign movie oscar that year). regarding thrillers made by ‘excel’, apart from kck, i am one of the few who liked ‘game’(more than the central suspense itself,i liked the way the entire mystery unfolded.also admired the slick ‘look’ of game)
NOw cmon guys
Comparing the probable box office of talaash to kahaani is an illogical thought
forget that–
comparing aamirs own ghajini to TZP is out of context
It suffices to say that VB has achieved a rare feat here
Being compared to aamirs film and being ‘alleged’ to have changed aamirs plans itself shows the ‘impact’
Knowing aamir-this may not be the only/main reason but HAS played on his mind
Also feel that the current bullrun by salman, hritik in ap has made him rethink , if not unnerved him
He knows his numbers will be compared to some really big ones and he doenst now be beaten
and dont think this ‘caution’ is a bad thing
thats what separates him from people like abhishrek who and others who despite all connections/genes/good offices/even ‘talent’ went with the flow
Its damn easy to go with the flow
Its this ‘holding back’
realising the damaging potential of even a small ‘kahani’ which has made aamir what he is today
Nothing to feel defensive/ wrong about this ‘caution’ from aamir
”VB has achieved a rare feat here
Being compared to aamirs film and being ‘alleged’ to have changed aamirs plans itself shows the ‘impact’”
Impact or clever PR? In May people will come up with ”reports” and ”allegations” that Talaash was postponed due to Rowdy Rathore or Shanghai – would it ”show impact” of Akshay Kumar and Emran Hashmi?
More than impact of other films on Talaash, it shows impact of Aamir Khan & his film – whose delay is being used & milked by other stars and their films to hype themselves and show their power! [They ''scared off'''Aamir Khan!]
minor/prateek–u r fighting a losing cause here, mates lol
‘Woman power” has risen in the form of vidya balan
Suggest we dont question it–suggest we jus applaud it and give credit where due..
when was a movie like kahani with NO known actor (besides the actress), ultralow budget, non gimmicky theme, no item nos and a director with a hat trick of flops (no, disasters) be accepted like this
in this scenario, numbers becum relatively immaterial
as a said earlier-’the public has spoken”
and aamir is bright enuf to sense that no actor(including himself) is bigger than the paying public. Its this close reading/rapport with his audience is what sets him apart.
Legends are created when they acknowledge even the “smaller” one.
ditto for bachchan
I am not discounting VB’s achievements. I’ve clarified many times that I am only pointing out absurd stuff like he got ”afraid” of her!
When it’s clearly visible that he’s busy with his TV show which is to come around same time – June and he’s producing both TV show and Talaash, then what’s this yakking about him ”re-shooting” Talaash as it is ”similar” to Kahani? Or being afraid of his own film’s reception compared to Kahani?! [When there's no clear evidence that both films have ''similar'' story or climax! And clearly evident that Aamir himself has no time to re-shoot or overhaul his film's story?]
More than Salman or Hrithik, he has his own past benchmarks (3I) too! I don’t discount the fact that his own previous benchmarks and success of rivals must be an influencer in his decisions.
But then if he were so damn worried about box office ONLY, then why would he have signed a dicey film like Talaash over more sureshot box office friendly films?
Paying public has spoken for Kahani. So what? The same paying public has spoken several times for years for an Aamir Khan film too. It has more faith in him & associates him more with quality than anybody else. He has no reason to be afraid of Sujoy Ghosh or Vidya Balan!
If at all, he’s under pressure then it’s pressure of his past benchmarks and this association/expectation of quality with anything he does – films AND TV show included.
His TV show is a new territory for him & his production house. And STAR didn’t let him postpone it further. So he decided to focus on it and postpone Talaash.
With his TV show around the corner, it was always a given that it would affect his films in some way or the other. Whether a Kahani released & succeeded or not. There was every possibility of Talaash being put on backburner due to that show he’s obsessed with. Kahani coming & Talaash being delayed are mere coincidence. It would have been delayed even if there was no Kahani (especially when this news came that the show had got affected due to fire & STAR was not keen on airing it around IPL).
prateek-u have rightly said had amir been so scared,he wouldn’t have taken up a dicey talash.lot of people r saying the cause of talash’s delay is that aamir is worried that if,released on the earlier date,his film may be ‘critically compared’ to kahaani as it has just received acclaim and would be fresh in cinegoer’s mind.so i ask- since kahaani has been liked greatly,how can it vanish from people’s minds by the time talaash comes,just in 4-5 months?would talaash not be compared to kahaani at all, later?
Director Reema Kagti speaks out! Dispels all rumours about Talaash & its delay, confirms there is no re-shooting being done & absolutely no similarities with Kahaani & that it was indeed their mutual decision to postpone Talaash to avoid clash with Aamir’s TV show.
You could be right. It reminds me of YRF’s attempt to refute all rumours about the Yash Chopra-SRK romantic film being a remake of his own “Daag”!
It’s only gossip mills that are right. Actual writers & directors of films don’t matter, don’t know about their films & lie bigtime!
BTW if you have any common sense then please do explain how will they overhaul the entire story of the film in just 2 months & get it ready for release as well? You seem to know more about them than even they do!
Now see the reasoning of Kagti in piece, ” I have heard lot about kahaani but not seen it”… If She has not seen it than how come she says its Different, Hearsay ?? She may be Right but reasoning is wrong and let us not forget She is just Pygmy compared to Aamir and Excel productions, Co- producers of the movie..
Well even by ”hearing” about it she might know what her film actually has or not. Okay? She does know for sure what she has in her own film!
”She’s just a pygmy” – WHAT? The writer and director of the film is ”just a pygmy” compared to stars and producer?
LOL! If Aamir himself keeps speaking about the film he is accused of hogging limelight, overshadowing his director etc. But if his director is speaking on the film, then he/she is dismissed as just a ”pygmy” or ”small fish”? Height of hypocrisy and double standards!
It’s not about speaking but Empowerment of taking Decisions . Now don’t tell me in Aamir, Srk, Salman films others have more power than them to take decisions . Its not Aamir specific, It’s this Star worship, be it Aamir, Srk, Salman or Bachchans… I see all fans never see wrong of there Fav stars and come up with long essays or showing other stars in bad light… Seen very very few fans of any star to say that there fav star was bad and movie was bad, except one instance where one srk fan said Don2 was Bad… Rest here from ravan to BG to BHTB to RA1 to Ghajini to Don2 are All hit and good movies in relative terms…
I don’t deny Aamir Khan will have final say on the film, also considering that he’s producing it. But I pointed out that one can’t even completely negate or ignore the writer-director’s statements!
It’s all hypocrisy. When the same writer cries foul everyone believes them and when the same writer/director is defending the film then he/she is lying or being remote-controlled by the star!
people like poor katgi are bit players here really
and so are the ‘heroines’
infact excel too is not the one taking the shots.
Hopefully , the one making crucial decisions is the one who SHOULD be making them
One shouldnt give the monkey a gun!!!
Remember ‘drona’–a ‘slick’ project boasting of loadsa sci fi effects and helped by a ‘talented’ visionary director called goldie (claim to fame–friend of who—an equally gifted visionary)
rotflol
Hopefully Aamir will maneuver and guide this project called ‘talaash@ (sic–want a better name ) to critical and financial safety by ‘hook or by crook’
“let us not forget She is just Pygmy compared to Aamir and Excel productions, Co- producers of the movie..”
Yes- why on earth should we think that the writer-director of the project has any control over it? Obviously she is just a ‘pigmy’- what does she have to do after all- only write the script and provide the vision for the movie- hardly relevant.
And BTW -she is a part of Excel productions and has been working with them for ages- including co-writing/ assistant directing ZNMD with the producer’s sister- she’s not some random outsider with no clout.
I do believe what she says- but it was unnecessarily over-defensive of her to say that she hasn’t seen Kahaani and yet that she knows there are no similarities. Classy statement though- glad she didn’t use it as an opportunity to put down Ghosh or Balan as ‘small fry’.
LOL- this has nothing to do with female emancipation- its sad the way Hindi movies always put the star’s ego/ image before the director’s vision- even with Agent Vinod I feel like Saif has deliberately compromised Shridhar Raghavan’s style so that he can become a member of the ’100 crore club’. And then promising directors like Farhan have become reduced to SRK fanboys meaninglessly making Don after Don with titles like the ‘King is Back’ or whatever and going about giving worshipful interviews about him to the media.
Aamir might be in complete control of the marketing of all his films but I don’t think that he has ever curbed the creativity of his writers/ directors/ editors in order to make films that glorify him as much as possible- kudos to him for that.
Well if Reema’s statements about Talaash are suspect in any way, then reasoning and ”statements” of people online is worse and even more ”un-trustworthy” than her statements! She can’t speak if she has not seen Kahaani and only heard about it (though she knows every bit about her own film!). But people online, 90% of who are not even remotely connected with the industry and know nothing concrete about Talaash can make all ”solid statements” about Aamir, Talaash and the team?
Whatever people are saying here is correct? And believable? Whatever a Zoom TV says is more believable than what Reema Kagti says?! [Though we all know these Zoom type guys are kept at arm's length from films especially by likes of Aamir Khan! ]
“people online, 90% of who are not even remotely connected with the industry and know nothing concrete about Talaash can make all ”solid statements” about Aamir, Talaash and the team?
Whatever people are saying here is correct? And believable? Whatever a Zoom TV says is more believable than what Reema Kagti says?! ”
I don’t know about Bliss- but I don’t understand why you keep insisting that I am against Talaash when I have explained so many times that I am not. I am saying that I BELIEVE what Reema has said- that she is not reshooting the film and that it does not bear any similarity to Talaash. But I also believe that she must have watched Kahaani- otherwise her statement about there being no similarity is meaningless- its not a big deal either way.
I am not against either talaash or Aamir but I question kagti’s statement on reasoning part… I said in my earliest comment that its all theories that are floating and one can’t discard other… Either accept or reject all as we don’t know what is Truth and have same principles when same things happens any other stars, which I don’t see here.
People here seem to be trying to ”accept” or ”prove” only one theory – that of Talaash team getting sleepless nights due to Kahaani and re-shooting the entire film or changing its entire story! Media only ”reported” about ”similarity” in climax, over-excited fans of other stars are taking it to whole new level by alleging that their entire story was similar to Kahaani or whole film will be re-shot and that Aamir’s other engagements (like TV show) probably influencing Talaash delay are baseless stuff!
Glad that Team Talaash is finally taking steps to shut up all the glee filled sceptics waiting hungrily on internet forums–http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/showbiz/bollywood/not-another-kahaani-334
‘Aamir Khan’s usual nonchalance towards industry rumours seem to have reached an expiry date, as the actor is highly disturbed about Talaash being touted as a me-too Kahaani. Ever since he postponed Talaash to November, it has been alleged that the real reason behind the move was the film’s similarity to Vidya Balan’s runaway hit. No amount of clarification from producers Riteish Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar, besides Aamir himself, could stop tongues from wagging.
With the situation going from bad to worse, Reema Kagti, who has so far maintained a stoic silence about Talaash, felt the need to clear the air. She said, “Talaash is completely original, so comparisons with Kahaani are surprising. I have said this before but some people like to get carried away by idle gossip while the truth blends into oblivion.” But she believes things will change once the promos of Talaash go on air. “Talaash is ready and Aamir will soon see the first cut.”
I think much as we argue her with a basic premise of honesty on part of all parties, some unfortunately dont have a shred of honesty in their arguments. The charge ( and the assertion by some who shall remain nameless)of Talaash being delayed due to its similarity to Kahaani or because of Aamir being unnerved by Khaani’s success is utterly wild, irresponsible,shameless and dishonest. It is a possibility ofcourse ( just because anything is possible) but we havent seen any evidence or argument supporting such a claim, other than dubious media reports and oppurtunistic fans of other stars. I think it is a matter of shame to resort to this kind of allegations without any evidence or information.
Agreed 100%! It’s nothing but over-excited fans of other stars who’re using this possibility to trash Aamir Khan and run down the film. And one can’t rule out the possibility of some stars’ PR milking delay of Talaash to hype up their films as well.
Rajen- I’m not sure if you’re referring to me here- but to clarify for the millionth time- I do not think that Talaash is ‘inspired’ by Kahaani or that it is a threat to Kahaani or that Aamir is intimidated by Vidya- but its equally wild/ irresponsible/ shameless/ dishonest to suggest that it’s Vidya and her PR that are behind this and to use this as an opportunity to put down Vidya when there is no evidence that she herself has said anything of this sort.
And I don’t see why everyone is getting so upset about this one particular rumour- for every big Khan film that comes out- the media cooks up a 100 similar improbable rumors- once the theatrical trailer comes out and its evident that the film is very different from Kahaani- the rumours will go away.
Not referring to you,Ami!
I dont think VB or her people are to blame either.
It is the ‘mischief makers” and oppurtunist fans of other Khan.
To some extent, I do understand your spirited defense of Ms.Balan but I also see a serious possibility of Ms.Balan starting to take herself too seriously. The GREATEST star of all times still remains humble as ever and would never even in his dreams say ( even jokingly and no matter what the provocation ) that other stars should attach his last name to theirs.
I don’t find the Khans adding her name statement to be arrogant but I do agree with this:
“I also see a serious possibility of Ms.Balan starting to take herself too seriously”
Her non-starry, down-to-earth quality is the best thing about her- and I hope that she doesn’t develop a Bollywood star ego. She’s still nowhere near as egoistic as SRK/ Salman/ Kareena – but she is a lot less humble than she was pre-TDP.
I feel you’re taking it all too personally. Anyone can see fans of which ”stars” are trying to make a big deal of Talaash delay. Don’t assume it’s particularly you or VB supporters. You can see for yourself how some fans of Aamir’s rivals have suddenly turned VB fans overnight only to trash Talaash in comparison to Kahani (even before its release!). It’s all politics played by fans and ”camps” of other stars.
As for other stars’ PR, not only VB in particular, others have also tried to pounce on Aamir alleging he got ”afraid” of Emran Hashmi’s Shanghai, Akshay Kumar’s Rowdy Rathore & Housefull 2 or was earlier ”trembling” due to Agneepath (when he postponed Talaash from January to June!).
As for VB, she’s no saint either. Even despite Reema Kagti’s official statements on this issue, media is still showing ”videos” of Aamir being ”scared” due to Kahaani or VB being bigger than Khans or being a threat to the Khans. Her PR working fulltime nowadays.
I’ve stayed out of this one but quite frankly it was so blatantly transparent that the moment Oldgold saw Kahaani she decided this would be a stick to beat Talaash with! And to be even more blunt about it I think if Hitchcock were directing Talaash Oldgold would still find it inferior to Kahaani! Incidentally I have seen Kahaani, liked it quite a bit, do plan to say something more on it but it too is indebted to Hollywood for a certain ‘key feature’ of its plot (which I won’t even hint at here). Surprised no one has noticed.
” but it too is indebted to Hollywood for a certain ‘key feature’ of its plot”
Actually there are lot of tributes/homage to bangla cinema in the movie too! Anyhow that is what Director says and I don’t think he is lying.
“Aamir Khan’s usual nonchalance towards industry rumours seem to have reached an expiry date, as the actor is highly disturbed about Talaash being touted as a me-too Kahaani. ”
So -as oldgold pointed out—the admission from the ‘horses mouth’—oldgold was right?lol
Aamir is ‘deeply disturbed’
“Talaash being touted as a me-too Kahaani”–now this is the height of idiocy. Team talaash is diggin a deep hole for themselves–who told em to give these crap labels to themselves–
lol@”me-too kahaani=talaash”
ps—Hiiya LS–dont worry bout aamir/talaash–he is competent enuf to handle it
What books are u reading? Anything for us mere mortalz?
Aamir is upset – if it all he is, it’s due to the struggle to handle both big projects TV show and Talaash together and also because even his fans have begun to lose patience and keep pestering him (whether online or when they meet him in person) on why his projects have got delayed & when will they come out, why he keeps fans waiting etc.
Amidst all this, the last thing he needs are bizarre rumours about his film or his equation with the film’s team!
One very important reason for Reema Kagti coming out to speak for Talaash are certain sections of media which reported that even she had now ”moved on” to her ”next project” and was busy writing and directing a new film, trying to imply as if nobody cared about Talaash (even its writer/director herself!).
The rumours were getting way too outlandish. No wonder they finally stopped ignoring them & came out to quash them!
The ”upsetness” has got nothing to do with Kahaani or legendary Vidya Balan ji.
Re: “Aamir Khan’s usual nonchalance towards industry rumours seem to have reached an expiry date, as the actor is highly disturbed about Talaash being touted as a me-too Kahaani. ”
So -as oldgold pointed out—the admission from the ‘horses mouth’—oldgold was right?lol
What part of it sounds like an “admission’ to you?
Stop playing mischief and sucking up to both sides.
Uncle rajen1 -Ok I will ‘suck up’ to only one side, obviously not yours!!!
Hahaha
Ie will prefer Oldgold here
Oldgold – I’ve been ‘forced’ to do this- hope u won’t mind
What all bad things people force me to do (no pun intended folks lol)
Since everyone is weighing on this, I must too…lolz
Truth is always somewhere in bet.
While Aamir/Katgi may not be *threatened* per se, it is always a welcome sign when bar is set a wee bit higher and the competition has to straighten/strengten their act.
It is like one superior product in market does well, then rest who want to stay in competition have to up their ante.
So AUDIENCE here is in win-win situation. Not sure why people always have to *fight* on this blog site and slight people in name of “intellectual debates”!!!!!
More the merrier. Well made movies, that is.
Glad that certain monopolistic tendencies are broken here and glad that as an audience, I got to see something other than boy-meets-girls-loses-halfbrother-goes-to-spain-on-road-trip singing insane songs blah-blah sadela stuff.
Instead of giving ALL credit to the horse (actor), we should also give kudos to the trainer/sponsor(producer) and so forth. I think in our world actors are not put on pedestal but on kailaash and worshipped for rest of their lives!!! no hyperbole here
Actors are worshipped? Ha! No way! Actors are trashed even without anyone knowing a thing about them. It takes a tweet of one lowlife critic hiding behind an anonymous Twitter handle to spread any kind of rubbish about a star or his/her films.
If some mischief maker decides to suddenly call an innocent woman a slut and a serial philanderer and the woman denies it – the truth is ‘somewhere in between”?
Unless, there is ANY evidence that htere is some truth in the rumors spread by some and latched onto by shameless oppurtunists ( and may be I should add idiots too), this charge belongs to the same catagory.
“If some mischief maker decides to suddenly call an innocent woman a slut and a serial philanderer and the woman denies it – the truth is ‘somewhere in between”?”
Dude…in all fairness…THAT analogy is not appropriate.
The movie was *ready* and then there was *delay* and then there were filmsy reasons (have to shoot for TV show…ya right….when did TV become MORE important than the philliums) and then there were reshoots.
And a suspence movie (of somewhat superior product) was released.
Tongues will wag. I really don’t care what the truth is AS LONG AS I get to watch good movies and as long as people don’t give me trash product to watch week after week and waste my time/money into watching there carelessly thrown together patchwork called “hindi movies”!!!
But you just wanted to give me a beating because you can’t give me a hug
RE: But you just wanted to give me a beating because you can’t give me a hug
LOL. Sorry if it felt like an attack but I do feel that sometimes you do make statements rather loosely. Like when you say – we cant compare two stars or here when you say truth is always inbetween. These are very arbitrary generalisations and I find them out of place in a serious argument anbd bordering on illegitimate editorialisation.
BTW: when a movie’s release is postponed, you continue to build up interest rate (high interest rates) and it continues to compound. SO there is always this “jaldi” to release a movie. Unless it is PST where the budget is so low, that the cost is already recovered by selling the satellite rights and they can wait one year to release the movie.
Desi Media will always go on a limb and PR team will do their “duties” but we all know how much of a *perfectionist* our Aamir is. So if he has to “reshoot” then he has to “reshoot”. It so happened that Kahani got released during the same time and maybe now instead of reshooting some scenes, they may be making the whole movie all over again…..hahahahahahha
What do I care!!!!
”then there were filmsy reasons (have to shoot for TV show…ya right….when did TV become MORE important than the philliums”
TV show is important to him because he is also producing it! He’s as much concerned about his & his banner’s foray in TV as much as he’s concerned about his films! And it’s obvious that he’s accomplished in films, but is totally new to TV, so he’s being extra conscious about the show. I hope you’ve seen Sukhwinder Singh’s interview about his show & how he described th scale of the show & Aamir’s involvement in every detail.
He had intended to come with TV show around March-April, but it got delayed due to fire in which all the sets were destroyed. Later STAR TV made it clear to him that they don’t wish to air the show till IPL gets over. So now the show has been postponed to the very period when Talaash was supposed to release!
Aamir himself keeps saying the show is the biggest and most ambitious project he’s ever attempted in his career.
For a layman TV show may not seem important for a movie star. But it is important for him! He & his team started the research work on TV show before he signed Talaash or any other film.
Films can be postponed or preponed, but TV shows can’t be brought out at any time one wants! He’s taking more than a dozen networks to air his show (14 different languages), they all have to overhaul their existing schedules to make a slot for his show.
Apparently, STAR is still struggling to find a slot for his show due to the delays. This is why the exact launch date of his show has also not been confirmed yet.
How can you or anyone of us call the already released suspense movie to be a ”superior product” in comparison to the one which is yet to be released? The superior or inferior comments can be made only after both films have released and been watched & compared by audience then!
““I also see a serious possibility of Ms.Balan starting to take herself too seriously”
Kaisey..kaha…kab. Bechari ko aab yohi badnaam naa karo.
She is hate-K in everyway. She always was confident (even when she was *nobody*) Now they will call her arrogant, bitch.
When a woman is success, she is a bitch (along with other adjectives).
When a man is success, he is “king”, “badshaH”, “god”……….
I would love her to be self-confident and not be denied in any way and that includes standing up for her status in the industry,her billig in films and her remuneration. She doesnt have to be coy or demure. She has always been very pleasant and that spills over in her performances. I just dont want her to develop any harsh edges. It is unpleasant enough in men but it is a major turn off in women ( call me sexist if you will). One can be confident without being strident, arrogant or disrespectful. Not saying that she has already become such but I do see a possibility. Today’s pop-culture and a society that gleefully consumes arrogant and disrespecful behaviour have weakened many a stars.It would be a shame if Ms.Balan falls a prey to the temptation of creating headlines with her interviews and statements when such wonderful things are happening in her career.
“It is unpleasant enough in men but it is a major turn off in women ( call me sexist if you will). ”
Major hugs to your wife. And while hugging her, I will wipe all her shed and unshed tears!
The inside info is that uncle rajen1 went home but was beaten by his better half , it seems
He is now taking it out here on poor vidya balan
Oops-should not be spilling the beans here lol
A few weeks ago, at the biggest and most farcical of the Hindi film award shows, Shah Rukh Khan and Ranbir Kapoor joshed about how Bollywood was ruled by three Ks: Khan, Kapoor and Kleavage, a sly dig highlighting exactly why they think The Dirty Picture was a smash hit.
They weren’t alone, with several industry commentators believing that despite the powerhouse performance at the core of an admittedly cheesy film, all irony was lost in what could undeniably be viewed as an exploitative film about exploitation.
Undeterred, Vidya Balan’s gone ahead and done her thing, having most recently shone the spotlight on that most important (and most criminally neglected) K of all, Kahaani.
Sujoy Ghosh’s finely crafted new film once again sees the actress sink her teeth into her kind of part: meaty as a 6oz. steak, cooked very rare. It is a nuanced film with a smashing ensemble, and while we may here hail Sujoy for digging deep after a pair of catastrophic misfires (Home Delivery, Aladdin), the fact remains that Balan is the reason his film – one otherwise destined for top reviews and warm indie-movie applause – has become a commercial sensation. And it has nothing to do with her body.
(Also, if all it took were curves and a willingness to flaunt them, Ameesha Patel and Malaika Arora’s kid sister would have flourishing careers.)
Currently, Bollywood’s not entirely sure what to make of Balan, the woman behind two unprecedented back to back hero-free hits. (I’d have counted No One Killed Jessica along with The Dirty Picture and Kahaani, but Rani Mukerji took on the traditional leading man archetype in that one.) Ours is a tragically sexist industry, and here’s a woman eschewing the trappings and making herself a star merely by insisting on cinema where the script gives her something to do. Hurrah. Compare that to Kareena Kapoor, who was in two historically humongous successes last year, excelling in the role of A-list arm candy.
Being able to fetch a film an opening at the box office without a popular leading man at its centre is no small feat, but being able to successfully carry off two highly commercial films where there isn’t even a ‘hero’ role in the script feels unprecedented. She started off prettily enough in Parineeta and Lage Raho Munna Bhai, but then stumbled around like a misfit, sticking out in mainstream entertainers while tabloids raced to find the cruelest adjectives to describe her wardrobe.
At which point she evidently decided the cookie-cutter mould just wasn’t woman enough for her, and started taking on challenging characters, eschewing both predictability and screen glamour. In her most recent film, she waddles around a sweaty city, so heavily pregnant as if with a teenager. In the one before that, her paunch eventually outdoes her décolletage. (Further comparison to Ms Kapoor is hardly necessary.) Clearly Balan is a woman who understands that sometimes the most unflattering angle actually shows you in the nicest light.
She isn’t our finest actress, but it’s fascinating watching her grow with each performance, all the while gathering nuances, like a snowball rolling determinedly down Mount Talent. Her simple but enviable ability to let the scene and the words do the acting for her, instead of spelling everything out for the camera, is a skill of its own amid her screechingly demonstrative peers.
The rest coasts on her skyrocketing confidence. She’s genuinely enjoying putting herself out on a limb, and that hunger is pushing her boundaries as an actress, honing her craft and making her better. That National Award might have come already, but we’re far from having seen the best of Vidya Balan. Like I said, she isn’t our finest actress. Yet.
yes…was reading Kareen’s interview. She says that she would have not acted in a movie which didn’t have producer backing (the way VB did for kahani).
At least now she won’t go around begging for roles and getting/facing rejection. I hope she selects good movies in future couple years before marrying and settling down/popping babies with SRK
Re:To fans and feminists, this is akin to the second coming of Christ
I have copy right on hyperbole on satyam shot…but join the gang dude
Feels good doesn’t it!!!
A good article even if it overstates things a little.
Re: Currently, Bollywood’s not entirely sure what to make of Balan
Thats certianly very true. But, it is such a rare occurence that no one knows what to make of her – general audience,fans,detractors.May be even herself.
To fans and feminists, this is akin to the second coming of Christ, for detractors – she is a flash in the pan. She seems to be enjoying it but I think mentally barely coping.
Just need to give it time and hope for the best.
Good article on VB. But while she’s definitely doing very well for herself as an actress and has surely stolen a march over other heroines as of now (success of TDP could be attributed to skin show etc.but Kahani’s success is a great achievement, considering the time in which it released! March is never considered a favourable period for releasing films due to exam time in India).
She is being ”over-celebrated” as well. Comparing her to heroes or calling her a threat to heroes is too much and so are her own constant digs at other heroines who’re giving hits with big male stars. If a Kahani has succeeded, let’s not forget there’s also a PST which has succeeded & got immense acclaim! But PST is not getting even half the hype & celebration as she/her Kahani is getting!
As for National Award, I don’t exactly think TDP deserved an NA! But it’s atleast better than Priyanka Chopra getting one for Fashion!
Woman has every right to bask in her glory. But she or her ”camp” need not compare themselves to their male counterparts or imply that her success even threatened the men!
As I said earlier in the day, she can call herself Goddess or Empress if she has topped her male counterparts’ achievements too (who she or her PR keeps comparing herself with). She is an amazing success as a heroine. But it’s not like her films have ”pwned” the Khans or threatened their position (as some media outlets are making headlines to prop her up!).
Kahani is her first film to make it to IMDb top 50 lists whereas Aamir Khan has several films which have made it to IMDb Top 50 & even Top 250. Same for SRK’s Swades & DDLJ. And as I said, even the Khans’ underperformers rake in more money than a VB film. So her PR calling her a ”threat” to Khans is totally outlandish! And so is her statement (even as a ”joke”) asking Khans to add Balan to their names! SRK is not exactly praised for calling himself king. If he is criticised for this despite all his formidable achievements over the decades, then how come you expect a recently successful VB to be spared of criticism?
This jumping around and her supporters saying that it was her film which ”forced” Aamir Khan to not just delay, but also entirely RE-SHOOT and overhaul the film is going completely overboard. Delay has happened. No re-shooting is being done!
And Khans have nothing to fear from her either in terms of quality or box office. Any Khan – not just Aamir.
Maybe the day a solo VB film breaks records of Gadar/DDLJ/3 Idiots/HAHK then she can say whatever she wants to and even ask for a legislation to get all heroes to add Balan to their names!
Rajen1 uncle-pray Kool down
We all are scared and infact shivering in our ‘boots’
The ladies here need my ‘support’ now
I am back after the (pleasant) job of ‘sucking up’ to Oldgold
Of all things she migh have done/said or not done/said,I would have applauded her if she had had a stinging comeback( it is not splet cumback,Alex) when SRK/Saif made fun of her sressing at those infamous FF awards.Dont care if they were staged. She should have insisted THEN that she be allowed a fair comeback. It was really uncomfortable to watch that thing on FF( even if it was staged)
“if she had had a stinging comeback”
but then you would say that she has “edges”.
I think job of actors is to act (in movies)…not do all this shenanigens. In HW too, some “actors” are known to inhabit drug rehabs instead of making movies!
I hope VB doesn’t lose focus and focusses only on her *work* instead of all this non-sense!!
What is it about vidya balan that is eliciting such OTT reactions from people
And now even from perhaps the biggest production houses currently aamir khan prod and excel
The females here like Amy , Di and Oldgold are not entirely wrong
This HAS made something somewhere uncomfortable
Forget about them–even some guys on this blog are not being able to tolerate her current position
C’mon guys-let a woman take ‘centrestage’ for a while!!
She is doing well JUST on the basis of her talent and aptitude and script choice
No godfathers or mothers , no item numbers
No fishy goings on
She’s not even misbehaving or anything like that
Shes just answering questions that she is being posed by over eager journos
To whom: she is replying in a normal witty manner
And nothing compared to the ridicule she was/has been subjected to by SRK/ others in award functions from her poor dress sense to her ‘auntiness’
Time to step back and let her enjoy her time
No point in being insecure guys
ESP Aamirs fans -he is more than capable of handling this ‘aftermath’ and will surely gross atleast 5 times kahaani
But y does this have to be ‘rubbed in’
This has more to do with the inequitable distribution of audience perception of male and female stars’ importance and worth rather than their talent alone!!!!
@Ami: ya..kudos to this lexy dude…I wanted to say somehting but then he is *dangerous* kind of guy..he will read too much into our congrats…next thing you know, he might be knocking on your front door and asking your roomie to leave, so he could have “alone” time with you….lolz
Thanx Amy and Di
Btw Oldgold is still recovering from the ‘sucking up’
“next thing you know, he might be knocking on your front door and asking your roomie to leave, so he could have “alone” time with you….lolz”
Thanx for the bright idea: Di
Dint think about it
And btw the ‘roomie’ girl (what was her name?) doesn’t need to leave either -don’t worry-more the merrier
Joking -whos got the time
”And now even from perhaps the biggest production houses currently aamir khan prod and excel”
LOL! Yeah yeah all official statements from AKP, Excel, Reema, STAR TV, Farhan, Ritesh, Aamir are fake and only gossip spread by Zoom is right!
Nothing to do with VB. Rather she and some of her supporters (particularly new ”converts”) seem obsessed with comparing her to Khans, other male stars and their films.
”No point in being insecure guys”
LOL!! WHO is ”insecure” of her? She and her supporters are hell bent on proving that not just heroines but even heroes are insecure of her!
When the box office worth of vidya to aamir khan is compared and it’s shown how the former is 5-10 times lesser than the latter–find it a bit perverse
Is it vidyas fault?
Is not a known fact that audiences have never supported a female centric film, forget one like kahaani which has nobody known other than that female?
I have joked about vidyas ‘auntiness’ myself but seriously speaking she HAS made an impact
And aamir is not becoming ‘small’ by altering his plans as per audience feedback
In my view, IF he has done it, I give him MORE credit !!
It takes special conscientousness to able to realise this and not letting ones self importance blind oneself
At the end of the day–aamir knows that it is all about the paying public and nobody (yes nobody) is bigger than them
Anyone who thinks he is bigger, is brought down to earth on the first weekend!!!
Yes–this is NOT the main reason for his delaying talaash
But probably ONE of the things
Aamir has a diff ult position to defend
He is not in the game to survive right now -like abhishrek
Or to produce hits by hook or by crook like ajay/akshay
Or to produce the biggest hits like Salman
Or to hold onto his ‘biggest’ vibe like SRK
He has to gross the highest AND ensure its a quality product AND ensure the product caters to his standing amongst his fans and his own eyes
Hence these ‘moves’-nothing working in them!!!
”Is it vidyas fault?
Is not a known fact that audiences have never supported a female centric film, forget one like kahaani which has nobody known other than that female?
I have joked about vidyas ‘auntiness’ myself but seriously speaking she HAS made an impact
And aamir is not becoming ‘small’ by altering his plans as per audience feedback”
She has made an impact in her own right. And if at all she has ”threatened” anyone, it’s her fellow heroines. Not heroes. Saying it as it is, it’s a fact, not some sexist statement or ”insecure defense” of a star!
What ”audience feedback”? I can believe if anyone says he probably postponed Talaash due to audience feedback in his own test screenings. But not if someone says he got scared due to success of other film! He’s simply not that kind! And in previous comments I and another member called Saurabh have given several examples from past, in his career, where he’s done films despite similar other films coming & succeeding prior to his own film.
Yes Aamir does not become ”small”. But it’s some mischievous and over-excited commentators online and in media who’re trying to belittle him by saying he got scared or ran away due to success of Kahani! Discounting all official statements and articles about Talaash and Aamir’s other projects! Here’s a guy who does not even want his ads to be shown with his show just because he does not want to divert attention from the essence & message of his TV show so why would he agree to release his film around the same time? Some of his show’s segments are live. How would he have shot for his show and managed film’s promotions all at the same time? And wouldn’t he have been accused of milking social causes and TV show to promote his film?! The intent for his making that show would have been defeated if he had come with it at same time as the film! And it’s reported in media that STAR didn’t allow him to further postpone the show! So he managed to convince Excel and delayed the film instead!
The point is that MAIN reasons for his delaying Talaash are being put aside while only this one is being given particular importance! Why so? Just to prop up the heroine and her film, connecting success of her film to delays of others films?! And going to the extent of making FALSE news that the film is being re-shot or its story is the ”same” as Kahani?!
His show will run for at least 2-3 months. He’ll take some weeks off after being done with it. I’d really like to know HOW will he re-shoot the film or entirely change its story AND promote it, release it in just remaining 2 months!
LOL!!
I see my name being taken in vain here – even by satyam. I do like your statement for me though – ‘using Kahaani as a stick to beat Talaash’!! LOL!! Good one.
There are so many statements I would have liked to rerspond, but now to search each and every one of them in the jungle of comments is beyond me.
But some clarifications regarding my view of this postponement;
- the news comes just after the release of Kahaani. If it were my film, I too would not want it’s release so close to another critically acclaimed, and fairly popular film of the **same genre**
-**because** the bar has been raised.
Amir always flexes his muscles in trying to achieve this ‘perfection’ that his fans think he has. He walks over everyone as we saw with TZP and even the lady director of PL who wasn’t pleased with him. So my conclusion that he wants to improve some things to be on par with the raised bar, so the postponement.
My view is based on these two things ONLY. Any other reason is not mine.
I really really loved Kahaani. Being a pure (almost) vegetarian (which means watching only Hindi films), it doesn’t bother me, Satyam, that it is similar to some Hollywood film. I don’t know this film nor do I care.
Did it bother the fans of Gajhani that it is an extremely inferior remake of another Hollywood film?
And yes, I’m not saying he’s worried about the BO. He isn’t. It’s the quality which I feel he found lacking and is now trying to improve to reach Kahaani standards.
I will go out of my way in praise and support for a woman’s achievement in a world where they praise men blindly.
Satyam will come up with a very condescending review of Kahaani like GF’s (who wears rose coloured glasses while watching foreign films), but Talaash, no matter how it is will be praised to the heavens.
Your dig has no basis, but still, I’d prefer my rose colored glasses to your cataracts when it comes to watching an Aamir film.
And my note on Kahaani wasn’t condescending. A critical perspective isn’t the same as condescension. Others (Qalandar, Shalini) had thought I was too kind on the film! The truth on my feelings is somewhere in between. I actually liked the film for the most part, said as much several times, even if I found certain parts of it less than impressive. One doesn’t have to “really, really love” Kahaani as you did to have a valid opinion on it.
Cataracts?? LOL!!
I despised him in Gajhani. In others (post Lagaan, haven’t seen the ones previous to that) he is OK. Liked him a lot in Dhobi Ghat.
AND I was looking forward to Talaash. Still am though I fear dimishing returns.
Don’t confuse my dislike of him as what he comes across to me as a person, with him in his films.
Actually GF has as far as I can recall not praised an Aamir film ‘to the heavens’ in many years. I on the other have praised 3I and TZP very highly but have not done the same for RDB or some others. Unfortunately your facts are not for the first time MIA!
The problem is that ever since you’ve seen Kahaani you’ve first of all decided that no matter what Talaash can’t be better. It would be one thing to do this for a more predictable subject and director but surely the film deserves the benefit of the doubt? Specially when Kahaani is hardly the stuff of Hitchcock! And in this regard I should say that Kahaani is a bit of a MacGuffin here because you just want to go after Aamir and Talaash!
But secondly this insinuation that Kahaani might have something to do with the delay of Talaash is a bit odd given that Aamir has had these patches preciously as well where he suddenly and inexplicably takes these long breaks. He also said recently that he wasn’t mentally ready for D3. Is that a fallout of Kahaani as well?
One can certainly dislike a star but these are rather flimsy grounds to go after him. Regrettably Aamir doesn’t quite offer the opportunities that some other stars do in this regard and hence the constant attacks directed at him always have to be a bit ‘hysteric’ in nature. I am not insulting you. Just being a bit theoretical. The attack or questioning of Aamir has to be entirely in excess of anything he’s actually saying or doing. It’s not like SRK where one can just restrict oneself to what he says and does in full glare!
>The attack or questioning of Aamir has to be entirely in excess of anything he’s actually saying or doing. It’s not like SRK where one can just restrict oneself to what he says and does in full glare!
Exactly!!
Amir doesn’t say ALL, leaving a lot unsaid, especially unshown (for the sake of his image) while SRK says too much, more than what he thinks and has in mind, thought of at the spur of the moment (for his image as well).
>The problem is that ever since you’ve seen Kahaani you’ve first of all decided that no matter what Talaash can’t be better
Yes, it is a problem…with you.
I haven’t decided that Talaash can’t be better. In fact I think NOW it has all chances to be equally good if not better.
>I on the other have praised 3I and TZP very highly
How is your high praise for TZP and 3I different from my high praise of Kahaani? Or is your opinion worth much more than mine?
>these are rather flimsy grounds to go after him.
My grounds to form an opinion about why he postponed his film seem very solid to me, even as they seem flimsy to you.
>Kahaani is hardly the stuff of Hitchcock!
I Like Hitchcock’s films, but I think Kahaani stands it’s ground in comparison.
>you just want to go after Aamir and Talaash!
You are right re: first part
>given that Aamir has had these patches preciously as well where he suddenly and *** inexplicably*** takes these long breaks.
Well, I’m giving you the explanation in this case. LOL!
1)It’s a bit weird that you authorize yourself to fill in the blanks as you wish for a man who leaves things unsaid and then present it as fact. Isn’t this a little disturbing?
2)My point on those Aamir films was the obvious. Your claim is that I praise everything to the heavens. I don’t. But it’s not my fault if Aamir does more meaningful stuff than most other actors!
3)If Kahaani is comparable to a Hitchcock film then I guess Talaash really cannot live upto this standard. If you see one of the world’s greatest and most influential directors being matched by Sujoy Ghosh (in a film with a twist I’ve seen a few times from Hollywood including one relatively recently) I guess I should just exit this debate!
>I guess I should just exit this debate!
You should. Because you seem to think seeing a **similar twist** in TWO or THREE HOLLYWOOD films is OK, but it’s presence in Kahaani makes it less worthy.
You even praise Gajhani – a copy.
Some of those Hollywood films are pretty mediocre efforts and I’d hardly commend them on any score!
Note how you give away the game here. This isn’t the first time you’ve called Ghajini a ‘copy’. Never saw you use the same word for Ra One, a film that in every other moment referenced a Hollywood genre film! Or Don for that matter where leaving aside the older Don so much of its aesthetics and in the new one even the plotline is so obviously derivative of Hollywood in tons of ways.
Satyam- While I don’t think that Kahaani is comparable to the work of Hitchcock in any meaningful way- I do think that it was more enjoyable and of a higher standard than any other Bollywood thriller that I’ve seen- save for Ek Haseena Thi.
I don’t understand why you’re comparing it to the best of Hollywood – since when have these been reasonable standards to hold a Hindi action/thriller film to?
No offense- but it does seem unfair when you don’t have a problem with films like Ghajini but you put down a Kahaani for being inspired by Usual Suspects. (I think that’s what you’re getting at- I could be wrong- I can’t find the earlier comments that lead to this debate between you and OG.)
Didn’t have Usual Suspects in mind but my larger point is:
1)With Ghajini the reason I valued this film a lot and still do is because I see it as an important attempt to rekindle a certain tradition. Which in turn isn’t an end in itself to my mind but a means of exploring certain questions that I don’t see other kinds of cinema engage in. In the South the tradition has been kept alive though I by no means think highly of much that is dished out in the name of masala there. The Tamil version of Ghajini was fairly enjoyable but nothing special for its contexts and there of course the obvious Memento rip. The Hindi which was better in some respects (I’ve talked about this elsewhere) was a valuable move within its contexts. This was in any case the prism through which I approached the film. When I praised a film like 3I I was relying less on contexts. Moreso with Ghajini though I did find it rather effective anyway.
2)I have no problems with Kahaani. I will get to this in a piece. But I also don’t think this is an extraordinary film. I am pleased the film got made, very pleased that it did well. I certainly enjoyed it. But if the point is that it’s something very special I disagree. Within this context the Hollywood point has to be made. If the film is going to be showered with the greatest adjectives (even compared to Hitchcock as with Oldgold) I think it only fair to bring this up. If I had talked about Ghajini in the very same ways the Memento point would be that much important but I did not! I think whenever a film is praised in absolute terms these questions become important. Otherwise I have no problem with borrowing either. As a matter of fact this Hollywood element has been handled interestingly. But check out my Ghajini piece and you’ll see what I’m driving at.
I liked Kahaani. Others like it a lot more than I do. That’s fine. But if a film is going to be offered as an example of something exceptional it is perfectly fair to debate this point. And certainly I said everything that I did in the context of Oldgold’s remarks on Talaash.
As a general matter I’d repeat another point (ad nauseam!). I think how much one likes a film or not relative to another person is less important. But I think a more interesting film or body of work lends itself to a variety of interpretations. I am for example a fan of many Dutta films. But these films can be approached from two directions. On the one hand a certain epic sensibility, a wonderful visual sweep, a willingness to explore raw political questions and so on. On the other hand the very male ethos of this world, the disturbing kind of violence that is sanctioned at points, the entire edifice eventually put at the service of a nationalistic narrative without adequate ‘translation’, etc. Both positions are defensible. The works are minimally doing both. I like this director a lot on his good days. Some of the movies are very strong. However it’s a question of that entry point into a film. Which isn’t completely arbitrary of course. It’s about what seems most crucial in a film given one’s perspectives. I love Dil Se (!). But this is a problematic film at many levels. Lots of ways to interpret different elements in a film. One could sound rather positive on the film as well as the opposite. Getting back to Ghajini my preferred frame of reference on the film was to see it as the attempt to re-trigger a certain tradition. The film is hardly earth-shaking otherwise.
It does happen quite often that films, specially those with any pretensions to being somewhat different or offbeat, tend to get lionized beyond all reasonable measure. It almost gets to a point where there is a pressure to ‘like’ it as much as everyone else. In such situations I am most often arguing against the reception of the work and not as much the work itself.
“It does happen quite often that films, specially those with any pretensions to being somewhat different or offbeat, tend to get lionized beyond all reasonable measure. It almost gets to a point where there is a pressure to ‘like’ it as much as everyone else. In such situations I am most often arguing against the reception of the work and not as much the work itself.”
I didn’t see your earlier comments- I thought that you were categorizing Kahaani as a bad film because of its derivativeness. Now that I know what you meant- I agree with a lot of what you’ve said- especially the bit above.
I had a lot of problems with Kahaani in terms of how the thriller aspect unfolded- but the wonderful atmosphere that the film evoked, the subversively strong heroine and Bidya’s lovely, subtle flirtation with Rana more than made up for that IMO. Its no Hitchcock masterpiece- but I think it has plenty to commend despite its flaws.
BTW- what did you think of her performance? I think that its her best so far.
@satyam and ami -after watching kahaani, which i loved(though the use of macguffin could have been smarter her), ithought i should ask this. without getting into this debate, i wanted to know ur views on ‘teen deewarein’(a thriller which worked for me on a lot of levels-find it more appealing then kahaani).the way it cleverly employed the ‘roshomon device’ is commendible. so satyam and ami, where would u rate ‘teen deewarein’ as a thriller? also which other bwood/hwood thrillers do u guys greatly like?
I haven’t seen Teen Deewarein- I don’t watch too many old Hindi movies. As for thrillers- I have way too many that I like- but my all time favorite is the 1960s French thriller Le Samourai. Recently I really liked Shutter Island, Martha Marcy May Marlene and the old German thriller Run Lola Run. In Bollywood- my favourite thriller is Ek Haseena Thi.
BTW- Martha Marcy is really good. Its an American Indie film about a young woman under the influence of a cult leader-released last year. You should see it.
@amy- teen deewarein is not so ‘old’. it released in 2003(directed by nagesh kukunoor, starring naseeruddin shah, jackie shroff and nagesh him who play three convicts in a prison.also has ‘juhi chawla’ as a reporter). i think u propababl mistook the name for ‘teen deviyan’. but seeing un abashed luv for thriller, do check out this kukunoor film, u will like it. i will try to get my hands on martha marcy, on ur recommmendation. have seen ‘shutter island’(liked it).also seen run lola run(for frank potente)
- It’s just a coincidence that this news came close to release of Kahani. I don’t believe it’s a reason sufficient enough to attribute delay of Talaash to it!
- As for the second point, it’s lame! Talaash is not a case of TZP or PL. And PL director only disapproved of some of his marketing strategies. Otherwise Aamir was never present during the making of PL.
Maybe he wants to focus more clearly on it after he’s gotten off the burden of TV show from his head. But allegations of Talaash’s story being ”same” as Kahani or ”re-shooting” the film, ”changing its story” are baseless. Sticking to them even despite the filmmaker denying those rumours and constantly comparing to VB seems like a desperate attempt to run down Talaash.
Prateek I admire your staunch support for the causes of ‘The Postponement’. On the other hand, I don’t find lameness, but a lot of logic in my deductions. And I will stick to it.
@satyam
To continue our discussion (???!!!) One point at a time.
The reasons why I really really love Kahaani (not at all for the reasons you think and why I think I’ll like Talaash less (again, not for the reasons you think
1. It will be a long long time before we see another woman oriented thriller let alone a woman oriented film.
YES!! I am 100% sure, even without watching the film that Talaash will not deliver.
I’d rather watch a woman searching around for someone than a macho man prowling around with that fierce superior frown in Talaash of something.
2. Kahaani came like a breath of fresh air. No, item song with a woman gyrating away in front of a bunch of drinking drooling men, no exploitation of women in the guise of ‘sexual liberation’, No hero surrounded by multiple near naked women falling over him. I love fresh air and this was really really fresh. It will be quite a long time before we see another film not trying to bring this angle by some means or other.
YES!! I’m sure Talaash will not be fresh (or at least not as much). We already know there is the prostitute angle with him getting seduced and we have seen a skimpily clad Kareena. How this is dealt with we have to see. Amir is very fond of kissing his heroines so perhaps there’s a seduction scene with Amir.
Whatever, regarding this it will be the same old same old….
3. Kahaani is one of the few (or only) recent films shot totally in the backstreets and alleys of a city. Very very authentic. I know Talaash was also shot in brothels etc and may show backstreets and alleys, but it has also been shot in London (not sure if it is only the underwater scene). This one has to wait and find out.
4. I love twists at the end, because I’ve reached a stage where ‘Khooni Kaun’ doesn’t thrill that much. Half way through and I have my suspicions which 99% of the time are proven correct. A twist throws a surprise and that satisfies me. This film did it well and proper. Perhaps Talaash will do it too.
As for your shock at equating it with Hitchcock films, well. The films I’ve watched are The Vanishing Lady, Notorious Birds etc I can’t help it if I enjoyed this somewhat more.
Anyway, I’m NOT fond of spy thrillers which some of his films were. These don’t interest me. That’s why I’m not interested in Agent Vinod.
5. Big Budget, super stars, famous stars, foreign shootings blah blah blah… I’ve had enough. Kahaani is a much needed relief from that. It is a simple film. It was very soothng to see a normal cop as opposed to the designer cops of Dabaang, Singham, and I fear Talaash too.
6. And last of all. Kahaani came first. It was a surprise. There was no building of anticipation, expectation, hopes etc. Talaash being of the same genre comes later. Come on. I’ve already been to a party
I’m still loking forward to Talaash very much- and I will not mind Kareena’s skimpy clothes as long as she has an interesting role and is not shown as the typical cliched prostitute with a heart of gold. But- I am surprised at how the women in the trailer are depicted considering that the writers and the director are women- Aamir is shown as the active subject doing things while the women are portrayed as objects- with introductory shots of the camera zooming in on them from behind and then followed by them gazing away into the distance passively- the gaze is very stereotypically male. Again- still looking forward to this very much- just surprising coming from a woman.
Your comments are curious! So now the only prism to judge Talaash or any other film, is gender-based one? Why do you feel the need to doubt or trash male centric films simply on your assumptions of portrayal of female characters in it?
And why should a film be celebrated to skies JUST because it is female centric? Your feminism seems to interfere with objectivity in your perception of any film!
What is ”surprising coming from a woman”? Tell me what positive portrayal has Farah Khan provided for female characters in her films, being a woman herself? Or what Ekta Kapoor does to women in her TV serials?! Why are you ready to point fingers only at Talaash, eh?
From available news & interviews about Talaash, both Rani & Kareena have author-backed roles in this film, one person praised it for being the rare Khan film in which actresses have such good roles & ample scope to perform (”perform” is not kissing or love-making scenes here!).
Playing a sex worker, automatically makes Kareena a sexual object? Huh?
So you guys have already made up your mind to call Talaash inferior, simply because it’s male centric (as opposed to female centric films which are always superior!) and because of your ”assumptions” about treatment of female characters in it vis-a-vis a Kahani/TDP?!
Finally, even if this film focusses more on Aamir compared to the heroines in it, it’s not a reason enough to trash it simply because unlike other stars Aamir does only 1 film a year or in this case, 1 film in 2-3 years! And he has his own loyal audience & fans too. Nothing wrong if he dominates the frame! He’s a totally reclusive star compared to all others, doesn’t even do many ads, so I don’t think it’s wrong or worthy of bashing if he dominates! His films are anyday better than films of other male stars which are designed purely to showcase them and their biceps or dimples! Kareena & Rani aren’t going to be mere arm-candy, like a Sonakshi in Dabangg or a mere damsel in distress like Kaajal in Singham!
You can do your feminist critique of Talaash after it releases & bash it to your hearts content, while comparing it to Kahani & celebrating woman power!
Here’s what I said on this very same thread- just a few comments down:
“But- I agree with you that just because Kahaani had a female lead it doesn’t mean that it will be superior or better than a film with a male lead just because the female lead is rarer. And in any case- I’m still hoping that Rani and Kareena have a lot to do and it doesn’t turn out to be another case of the hero dominating every frame with the women being served up as window dressing.”
But obviously its easier for you to hound me with your Aamir fanaticism if you selectively ignore some of the things I say and only respond to the comments that you can twistedly interpret as ‘Anti-Aamir’ sentiments.
My supposed Aamir ”fanaticism” is nowhere close to your obsession with feminism & doubting every film which has a big male superstar in it!
Whatever Talaash will be, it will be at least better than other stars’ films where the heroine is so clueless that she can’t even recognise her husband if he shaved off his moustache!
If you are unable to comprehend my painstaking explantation that I have no problem with this film on grounds of its male star and choose to ignore everything I’ve said completely and persist with your attempts at painting me as a man hating feminist- that is your problem not mine.
Especially since I’ve been very enthusiastic about this film from the beginning of this thread long before the Kahaani/ female protagonist issue crept in- and when I’ve said on this very thread that my favourite thriller is Le Samourai which is in fact male centric- your accusations of my feminism deterring me from enjoying any male-centric films is completely baseless. Clearly you don’t even know what feminism means.
I’m not going to continue with this pointless conversation any longer – If it pleases you to ignore everything I’ve said and insist that I am a man hater/ Aamir hater- please do so. Its impossible to engage in a debate with somebody when they aren’t responding to anything that I say and persisting with their own illogical assumptions.
I already replied to you in a comment below. Don’t assume I am just a blind Aamir fanatic and don’t assume about my knowledge or lack of it on feminism. I did clarify myself in a longer response below.
YEah- I just saw it- replied to it as well. I was reasoning with you patiently the whole time- but once you start making silly accusations about me hating films because they star men I cannot help but question your motivations- especially when from the beginning of this thread I’ve said that this film looks good.
And you are one to talk about not making assumptions- if you look at my reply to your clarification- its evident how many false assumptions you have made about me.
Prateek- If you’re going to read all kinds of sinister assumptions into my post you will obviously find loads to object to. Here is what I am saying: Male-centric films are NOT any less enjoyable than female centric ones and the male perspective is just as valid as the female one. However considering that a woman made this film I am surprised with the way it has been shot.
I do not watch Ekta’s serials but I’m always surprised at the way Farah portrays her female characters. And that surprise is quite reasonable. I did say that Kareena’s clothes do not detract from the film. I also said several times on this thread that the film will probably have good roles for the women.
I know you are an Aamir fan but you do not need to fanatically take apart any perfectly neutral statement I make regarding his film. I actually like him quite a lot- far more than the other Khans. You seem to have an irrational desire to attribute any less than adulatory comment about Aamir to some anti-Aamir ulterior motives. I’m not dissing the movie in any way in my comment.
As a woman- I obviously enjoyed the fact that Kahaani was the rare film with an intelligent female protagonist. Does that mean that Talaash is somehow inferior? Not at all- and I never said that! Stop attacking me for no reason. And just because I enjoy a film with a strong female character it does not mean I am incapable of enjoying a film with a male lead. Feminism does not imply misoandry. I’m not going to ‘bash a film because it doesn’t celebrate women power’.
And also- by surprise I only mean surprised at the way the women have been framed in the trailer. The film itself could turn out to be very different- I’m not making any judgments on that.
Also- when I said a ‘stereotypically male gaze’ I did not mean that in a derogatory way. Simply that it did not look like the work of a female director. If I thought that it was derogatory or sleazy- I would have said that. But I didn’t. So stop making wild accusations about my supposed judgement of the film.
”However considering that a woman made this film I am surprised with the way it has been shot.”
- You are judging the ENTIRE FILM and the way the WHOLE FILM has been shot merely on the basis of a small time teaser?
Why any surprise? I’d like to know what you thought of Zoya’s portrayal of females in ZNMD.
What according to you are female directors supposed to do? Please elaborate.
In case of Talaash, I believe Kareena has been portrayed the way she has, simply because she’s playing a sex worker. A sex worker herself behaves & carries herself to pander to ”stereotypical male gaze” if I’m not mistaken. I don’t see what wrong Reema Kagti has done, if at all she has as you say, in the way she projected Kareena in the teaser.
BTW, it’s just a teaser. You expect them to show all their cards in the first teaser itself? It’s obvious they’ll show more of Aamir and focus on him going about the affairs in the first look of the film. And gradually they’ll show other characters too in forthcoming trailers.
I don’t expect everyone to praise Aamir. If you notice, I and other fans have criticised him in older comments on this thread. I am only commenting about this constant alluding to Kahani in discussions about Talaash and now using feminism argument to ”cast doubt” on merits of a male superstar’s film.
I don’t care which Khan/Kumar/Kapoor you like or dislike. It’s not about Aamir only. You seem to be after every male superstar’s film!
Currently seem to be using Kahani to back your doubts about Talaash. Wonder which film you’ll pick when you have to go after Housefull, YRF film, ETT etc.
I know feminism does not spell misoandry, but sorry to say, your comments gave such impression only.
I know I said I wouldn’t continue this conversation but I cannot help it when your reasoning is so blantantly unfair
“your comments gave such impression only”
Obviously- if you look so determinedly for such impressions you will find them
“- You are judging the ENTIRE FILM and the way the WHOLE FILM has been shot merely on the basis of a small time teaser?”
Here is what I said earlier:
“I am surprised at how the women in the trailer are depicted” and also- by surprise I only mean surprised at the way the women have been framed in the trailer. The film itself could turn out to be very different- I’m not making any judgments on that.”
I NEVER judged the film negatively- only expressed my surprise at the trailer. Can you just READ what I write instead of imagining what I’m thinking and then arguing with my imagined opinions?
“I and other fans have criticised him in older comments on this thread. I am only commenting about this constant alluding to Kahani in discussions about Talaash and now using feminism argument to ”cast doubt” on merits of a male superstar’s film.”
Funny thing is- I was praising Talaash’s teaser without any comparisons. It was you who brought up the Kahaani rumours and put down Vidya so I defended her. I never intended to make this comparison on my own.
You really have absolutely no grounds for these accusations you keep making. I am not undermining Aamir or his film- I liked the teaser and I’m looking forward to it for crying out aloud!
I didn’t bring up any rumours about Kahani. It was already being discussed before I commented on it. I am not imagining anything. I am responding to your exact words only. Now please also tell me how I should read or perceive your comments, so that I don’t offend you & understand you more clearly.
Thanks a lot for liking Talaash teaser (which I myself didn’t like much, found it a tad underwhelming compared to the wait & big names associated with it). Great that you’re looking forward to the film.
Okay- sorry about that- I thought it was you. But whoever brought it up- it was your comment about Vidya that I responded to which started this whole debate. I had no intention of comparing the two- and even if you look at my earlier comments while I was defending Vidya and her PR- I kept stating that it was improbable that Talaash was postponed due to Kahaani.
And here are my earlier comments before the whole Kahaani controversy started:
“The trade wrote off ZNMD as having niche appeal as well. The first Delhi Belly teaser did not look encouraging at all. Don’t underestimate the Aamir-Akhtar team- I’m sure they’ll plan a brilliant marketing campaign and then the star power of Aamir along with Kareena/Rani will ensure a historic opening. This looks like it will be of a much higher quality than most Bollywood action/thrillers so WOM and trending should be good. I think that it could do a 100 crore first week easily and then another 100 crores including the international Market.”
“I hope this film does well- it seems to be one of the few genuine attempts to make a good film this year.”
Does this clarify that I am not anti-Aamir, anti-Talaash or anti-men?
It’s not just about anti-Talaash or anti-Aamir comments. I only (sorry for repeating myself the umpteenth time!) commented at assumptions about it or mentioning Kahani along with it, even before its release, or at least an official synopsis or proper theatrical trailer.
I myself will be the first one to voice my dissatisfaction or dislike in case I don’t like the film (Talaash) or something in it. But let it release first before cooking up whole lot of assumptions about its content or its merits & comparing it in advance with films already released.
That’s all.
Of course, some people (who seem perennially frustrated with certain stars associated with Talaash) can carry on with their assumptions about the film. I’ve commented enough. Now I’ll only step aside and see how much more outlandish the assumptions about Talaash get!
Coming to your next point.
I didn’t comment on Ra.one being copied because…where was the need? The film was being bashed, trashed, made fun of and that was more than enough I think.
Did I defend it?
Now I really don’t know what films Kahaani has been copied from, but it doesn’t really matter…. to me.
Did you talk about the various internet jokes 3I had copied from?
I enjoy the beauty of the forest rather than counting the trees, unless the forest has several diseased trees.
Actually you defended Ra One a great deal! But I don’t want to revisit all of that here. And going by that logic we shouldn’t also praise films that everyone else is praising. Why are you doing this for Kahaani?!
Didn’t say it was copied. All I suggested was, and in response to this film being presented as completely new and fresh and different and so on, is that it involves a series of thematic tropes that aren’t particularly new. Nor is frankly it’s frenetic depiction of Calcutta very new given prevalent global norms in this sense. I did like the movie. That’s not the point. On Ghajini again that’s a straw man. The Memento thing is obvious. I mentioned it in my piece nonetheless. And Kahaani isn’t like Ghajini on this score. So I am not using different standards here. And again I know you liked Kahaani. That’s where you’re sincere. But when you use it to club Talaash that’s another matter!
1)I must say that I was rather less surprised by Kahaani than you (so dramatically) were. While the film was a very welcome bit of entertainment and perhaps more I find it hard to endorse the idea that this was completely ‘unexpected’.
2)I would say that the spy thriller narrative has been incorporated into the film. In fact the film is essentially this spy thriller cum identity narrative that we have seen in very many permutations in all kinds of Hollywood films.
3)I wouldn’t compare those Hitchcock films or any others to Kahaani. Your preferences are perfectly legitimate but I just have questions about how these are framed. For example I could say ‘I like love stories, I don’t much care for war movies, hence to me the Notebook is as good as Apocalypse Now’!
4)I find it extraordinary that with each new response you continue to increase the number of possible objections you have with Talaash. A film which we know practically nothing about beyond the fact that it is a dark thriller with no songs (or only as part of the background score). Again you ‘want’ to argue against Talaash. You might like the film, I am willing to accept this, but you have pre-decided that it cannot possibly be better than Kahaani. Or because it’s an Aamir film he must not be allowed ‘first place’ in any sense.
5)Liking a film because there’s a woman playing the lead is simply ‘definitional’. In other words I too like this gesture when it comes about for its scarcity and certainly I liked some of the angles connected to this in Kahaani but I cannot say I endorse a film the moment a woman appears in it in the central part! Or to be more precise just this gesture cannot elevate this film over one with a male lead if the latter otherwise happens to be better. For example I liked Ishqiya reasonably but didn’t think it was great by any means. The more liberated woman at its center or the fact that she plays both men or whatever, all these are fine as gestures but just these don’t make Ishqiya a fantastic film. and this applies to anything else. Hollywood loves awarding films that have people with disabilities or Holocaust films and so on. Just because these things are being represented doesn’t make the cinema great. So Talaash could be a vastly superior film to Kahaani the female lead of the latter notwithstanding.
6)finally Kahaani did come with a reasonable with of anticipation. It was Balan’s first film after TDP. It had her in the lead once again. The trailers looked interesting. Obviously one can hardly expect it to come with something that’s mounted on a bigger scale and/or has a bigger star. The idea that there was ‘nothing’ in this sense isn’t something I agree with. But even if there’s lots of anticipation and lots of advertising that can hardly be held against the actual film nor can the lack thereof be a positive for a film that isn’t otherwise worthwhile. You were probably not expecting much here and were very surprised. That’s fine. But that was hardly the general perception.
In the final analysis we could keep arguing about some of these points but the central point here is that your entire response to Kahaani works through the prism of your feelings towards Aamir and hence Talaash. Since the day you’ve seen the film you’ve been unable to say much about it without saying something about Talaash. In US lingo this is called ‘pre-gaming’ (Talaash)!
We all react differently to different films. That’s fine. I am hardly objecting to your lionization of Kahaani. But the comparisons with Talaash are totally unfair based on what we know about the latter so far, not to mention the even more dubious questioning of that film’s delay as having something to do with Kahaani. I would disagree as strongly on the Hitchcock bit as well but that’s not your central claim here.
“In other words I too like this gesture when it comes about for its scarcity and certainly I liked some of the angles connected to this in Kahaani but I cannot say I endorse a film the moment a woman appears in it in the central part! ”
but:
“With Ghajini the reason I valued this film a lot and still do is because I see it as an important attempt to rekindle a certain tradition. ”
Isn’t it the same principle? You’re more partial towards Masala movies because they are a genre you love and there are hardly any serious attempts at Masala in Bollywood these days. OG is partial to Kahaani because there are hardly any films with non-sexualized female protagonists in Bollywood.
In any case with Kahaani the idea of femininity and female power was very central to the film- so its not just a token appreciation of a rare film with a female protagonist- its about appreciating the subversive way in which the female protagonist was portrayed.
But- I agree with you that just because Kahaani had a female lead it doesn’t mean that it will be superior or better than a film with a male lead just because the female lead is rarer. And in any case- I’m still hoping that Rani and Kareena have a lot to do and it doesn’t turn out to be another case of the hero dominating every frame with the women being served up as window dressing.
Not at all. I’ve made this point countless times including just yesterday in response to you that I don’t like most of the masala that comes out of the South even though I like the fact that they’ve kept this tradition alive. Similarly I’ve also said that I don’t like most of the Bombay attempts at masala these days even though I want these films to be made. On balance I’d rather have Bodyguard than not though I don’t watch it(!). I did like Ghajini more than just about every masala film that’s followed in its wake in Bombay. So it definitely wasn’t a case of simply endorsing a film on those grounds. And again my original piece also makes this clear. I should also repeat another point here because this too is often misunderstood. I am not ‘for’ masala as an end in itself. I just think that a certain set of questions were historically raised in this (super)genre that haven’t been replicated elsewhere. And in the absence of alternatives this is the only real model we have for those ‘formulations’ that I am interested in. But if those other options could be found I would stop insisting on masala, irrespective of my personal preferences.
I suspect the film you’re thinking about is Salt..and totally agree, there’s a definite parallel though I don’t think you mean this necessarily as a knock on Kahaani. I do agree that the ending isn’t some amazing reveal and besides this isn’t necessarily the point of what makes the movie otherwise enjoyable and interesting.
yes this was one I had in mind.. but even otherwise this idea of to (and to paraphrase Obama) [SPOILER] ‘I am the one I am looking for’ has seen a number of Hollywood permutations including most recently in the Double. Of course Hollywood has gone that extra ‘Hegelian’ step in this sense where in a final ‘synthesis’ (to use a crude formulation for Hegel that isn’t quite justified) stage there’s another ‘flip’ and though I am ‘who’ I was looking for it turns out that the original ‘I am’ is also ‘innocent’ in some way. So one learns that Gere himself (or Jolie) is that dread agent in the Double but one eventually finds out that the figure of that dangerous agent that everyone’s looking for and that he himself is is a kind of ‘state’ fiction. Some of these elements are present in the Bourne series as well. But yes Salt is the obvious one. Ami earlier mentioned Usual Suspects. Here the common element is that an entire fiction is constructed that ‘doubles’ with the film’s plot and when at the end the fiction is revealed the plot of the film gets unraveled too. It’s not just that the mystery is cleared but that the film weirdly collapses and the reality of the film comes into question at some level.
>I must say that I was rather less surprised by Kahaani than you
So? Should that make me retract my surprise?
>In fact the film is essentially this spy thriller cum identity narrative that **we have seen** in very many permutations in all kinds of Hollywood films.
Who *we*? Not me.
>I wouldn’t compare those Hitchcock films or any others to Kahaani.
You needn’t, but I may.
>Notebook is as good as Apocalypse Now’!
I haven’t seen either. There might be people who do think that.
>all of point 4.
Now you want to regulate my thoughts. My English is not that bad. I’ve clearly written and explained the points above….AS I SEE IT:
They are certainly not meant for you to believe/accept or anything. They are my clarifications of why I like Kahaani.
You love Amir so of course I understand you want to go on and on questioning my thoughts and preferences.
>I cannot say I endorse a film the moment a woman appears in it in the central part!
I can. But then, you are not a woman. Your thinking and appreciation of this cannot be like mine. It brought novelty for me, a different aura, a new angle from which I looked.
>You were probably not expecting much here and were very surprised.
I was.
>That’s fine. But that was hardly the general perception.
Not ONE POINT/COMMENT of mine is from the general perception.
>In the final analysis we could keep arguing about some of these points but the central point here is that your entire response to Kahaani works through the prism of your feelings towards Aamir and hence Talaash.
If you meant to use the word ‘fresh’ the way I did, then please note that the film was fresh for the reasons I’ve mentioned and unrelated to not having seen the films having similarities with Kahaani.
If I questioned your reasons for liking Gajhani there would have been another long argument, because I didn’t see the film as phoenix rising from the ashes of masala films, but rather a grotesque caricature of it.
”I am 100% sure, even without watching the film that Talaash will not deliver.”
- LOL! Of course being an SRK fan you have to be 100% sure that Talaash ”will NOT deliver”. Your constant comparisons of Kahani and Talaash, even before Kahani’s release already gave away your preset mindset about Talaash.
- ”I’d rather watch a woman searching around for someone than a macho man prowling around with that fierce superior frown in Talaash of something.”
- Fine! But you don’t represent even a sizeable chunk of whole movie-going audience and their mindset. Cold fact is that majority of audience will still turn out more for a male superstar’s film – even if he releases it without promotion – than a female centric film!
BTW, I wonder if your sudden surge of feminism is only pertaining to Talaash or you’d also extend it to SRK films! [Aamir at least gives ample scope for other actors in the film, SRK ensures his films usually revolve around him! And Salman's films are only about him - even villain is reduced to a dust particle!]
”I’m sure Talaash will not be fresh (or at least not as much). We already know there is the prostitute angle with him getting seduced and we have seen a skimpily clad Kareena. How this is dealt with we have to see. Amir is very fond of kissing his heroines so perhaps there’s a seduction scene with Amir.
Whatever, regarding this it will be the same old same old….”
- LOL! LOL!! So many assumptions about its story even without an official synopsis or proper theatrical trailer, let alone its release?! Proven that it’s a waste of time to ”debate” with you on anything related to an Aamir Khan film.
Kareena is playing a sex worker in it. So obviously she’ll be dressed like this! What else do you expect? Sarees or burqa?! If she had been playing a normal girl yet she’d been shown skimpily dressed, then that would have constituted deliberate sexual objectification of women, but NOT now, if her character is that of a sex worker!
And what ”same old”?! An SRK fan talking about ”same old” or ”fresh” stuff?! Then what are your views about the YRF-SRK film or Chennai Express? How come you don’t vocalise ”less excitement” for them for being ”same old same old”? Whatever Talaash is, it’s going to be ”fresher” than any film which your favorite star is doing as of now!
”I know Talaash was also shot in brothels etc and may show backstreets and alleys, but it has also been shot in London (not sure if it is only the underwater scene). This one has to wait and find out.”
- For your kind information, only the underwater sequence of Talaash has been shot in London. Otherwise it has been shot at hitherto unexplored locations in Mumbai and Pondicherry. And of course, height of double standards from an SRK fan, to complain about ”shooting at foreign locations”!
”Big Budget, super stars, famous stars, foreign shootings blah blah blah… I’ve had enough. Kahaani is a much needed relief from that. It is a simple film. It was very soothng to see a normal cop as opposed to the designer cops of Dabaang, Singham, and I fear Talaash too.”
- Yeah this blah blah blah also applies to every other Khan’s film. Not just Talaash!
And what kind of reasoning is this? Every cop film has to be same as Dabangg or Singham?!
Madam some years ago, there was a slew of cop films from Sarfarosh to Kurukshetra, Indian, One 2 Ka 4 etc. Tell me if any of these films or cops in them were all same! And BTW, Aamir’s previous cop character was way less ”designer” and as close to normal as it gets, than other films of that time! Even the Talaash teaser is enough to show that he’s not going to be jumping around in air like Ajay Devgn in Singham!
”I fear Talaash too” – HAHAHA! Even before seeing it, and despite its teaser not showing a dint of ”designer cop” stuff of Singham type, you still think it will be in similar vein? Yeah right!
Preparing ground to compare it to Singham/Dabangg next, after comparing & trashing it in relation to Kahani! Good going!
Sanjana –hahaha
Do u ONLY deal with good one-liners
Won’t make u ‘pay’ for more lines
” A sex worker herself behaves & carries herself to pander to ”stereotypical male gaze” if I’m not mistaken. I don’t see what wrong Reema Kagti has done, if at all she has as you say, in the way she projected Kareena in the teaser.”
Prateek: quite a spirted and insightful comments there
So oldgold wonders if u have a pseudonym as well
Infact yes-now I also wonder if Prateek is a female name as well
Keep it up girl / boy
Huh? If someone doesn’t comment here as regularly as some of you guys do, does it mean his identity is ”suspect”? What’s with this ”girl/boy”? [I remember you'd talked like this in response to me sometime last year also, I think it was around October-November!]
Deliberately trying to change the topic ( maybe to avoid answering to my comments! ) and hence casting doubts over my id!
Use some new tricks to divert attention from topic sir ji & madam ji!
I am Prateek (not the Babbar one! Lest someone starts thinking I’m defending my ”mentor” here! ) and I’m a male. What else do you want? To put up my identity card or driver’s license as some proof? When did Prateek become a female name, BTW?
@oldgold-talking about ‘srk’ and ‘freshness’- “attempting dismally to play the guitar inplace of the usual violin in his new yash raj film, is as close srk can ever get to being ‘fresh’”.kahaani was really well-done but putting it above talaash,even though we don’t anything substantial,abt the film, is being stupid.we just can’t dismiss aamir like that (even those who don’t like him).here is a man whose films have not only been huge hits but almost all of which hold a place in modern ‘pop-culture’
No use talking. She obviously seems to have made up her mind already on Talaash (her self-confessed notions about Aamir Khan notwithstanding!). Height of hypocrisy for an SRK fan to make arguments about ”freshness” for another star’s film or suddenly use cause of feminism to bash another star’s fllm (ignoring the state of females in her own favorite star’s films!).
I want to ask Oldgold if she would have said similar stuff if instead of Aamir, an SRK would’ve been doing a cop+suspense film?
As I already said Saurabh, the number of actual, genuine Kahani/Vidya Balan supporters on the net is suspect, considering how all of a sudden fans of other stars have started using her and her films to bash their own favorite stars’ rivals and their films!
It applies not only to heroes but such politics is even going on among fans of heroines (some of who are now using VB to bash Kareena Kapoor & Katrina Kaif!).
As for Aamir, it’s clear that he or his film can be judged only after its release or at least after something concrete is known about it, not on basis of mere assumptions or a 2 min teaser!
@prateek-it’s amply clear to me that u r a boy(and to be true even i do not find this ‘pseudonym’ thing very amusing even if said jokingly).u have made a no. of intelligent points, keep doing that.u r right abt fans using’kahani/vb’ to trash aamir and uphold their own fav star.this is a sad thing because it means either ‘their star’ isn’t good enough to be defended on his/her ‘own merits’ or the fans r incapable of bringing forth those merits in a comprehensible manner. i hope,it is the 2nd probability
Folks…let this *debate* go. It is so boring. We should have more meaningful dialogues (at least respecting serious blog site like this one), such as how slowly and surely, the script is evolving as real hero in india (as compared to a “badshah” or “king” actor).
Kahaani’s kahaani (script) did push the envelope. For a change hero is not male and neither is a sexually attractive object (pregnant woman) and yet there is subtle romance (there is this one scene where hero had so many expressions on his face and conveys everything without speaking a single word). Why don’t we discuss scenes we liked in a movie instead of something as vague and baseless as various causes of postponement of Aamir movie (neither party knows the truth but oldgold and the opposing party act as if they know the whole truth).
“For example I liked Ishqiya reasonably but didn’t think it was great by any means.”
hush….Satyam….!!!
“The more liberated woman at its center or the fact that she plays both men or whatever, all these are fine as gestures but just these don’t make Ishqiya a fantastic film.”
Sweety…you have left india for a very long time it seems!!!
In context of India, it is awesome movie…I would compare it to Sholey and it was just as entertaining to me!!!!
As a punishment for saying such things this morning, Satyam, I will time you out with new release of agneepath and all the “coming off age” movies starting ZNMD, till you change your opinion on Ishquiya.
BTW: what is your take on PST.
Kahani to OG is PST to me!!!
Too many comments, too many false conjectures, too much of assumption about a film whose one teaser has given its critics a billion ideas, mostly negative.
Let the film release in November; will be wonderful to watch all critics cum hater eat crow…I am positive about this film.Aamir did a terrific cop film with Sarfarosh, simply one of his finest roles and films, a mix of art and commerce, a solid political-cop drama; expect something equally good in Talaash. Forget comparison to Kahaani-vahaani–which I liked a lot, btw; just irritated with the assumption that Talaash will be inferior to Kahaani.
Only one person thinks it will be ”inferior” to Kahani. And ”one person” cannot influence fate or perception of a film which has to cater to an audience of a billion+ people!
‘sarfarosh’ was terrific .initially when i saw aamir,i thought he would feel like a fish out of the water,as a cop(was apprehensive abt his body language). but boy, i was wrong,aamir nailed it.the scene where goons attack him in the hospital and he retaliates by almost catching one of them who just escapes…after that aamir gives a “laconic sort of a laugh” over there-fav scene.easily his most likeable role.also the entire script was ‘taut’.a bit better and it would have been a ‘genre-bender’.
Hahaha ^^^
A new working title for a film
The power of ‘one’
Starring -Heroine -oldgold !!!
Villian -aamir khan
Ps–
Seems LS has stopped reading books nowadays
Only reads gossip columns
That’s y he has no good book recommendations
That’s the impact of bad company
Don’t put ”One” in the film’s title. Going by the fate of previous films with ”One” in their titles, this film could end up as a flop or an underperformer and you would have to resort to find ”workable reasons” to defend the fate of the film!
I don’t wish Oldgold’s debut film to flop or underperform. [Not worried about Aamir, he can't play villain though he's the nastiest and most sinister mind in the whole Indian film industry! ]
LOL
I don’t know whether to laugh or cry at the ridiculous and uneducated deductions that are being made from my comment .
-I DID NOT SAY Talaash will be inferior to Kahaani
**I said** – I THINK * I* WILL LIKE IT LESS than kahaani giving MY reasons for it.
-My comment is MORE FOR REASONS WHY I LIKE KAHAANI than for expressing anti Talaash sentiments.
The behaviour of Amir Fans is as obnoxious as they claim SRK’s fans to be.
LOL! ”Obnoxious behaviour”? First casting doubts on identity to divert from the topic, and now calling behaviour as ”obnoxious”! Tch tch! Nothing obnoxious is happening here madam.
Anyway, if you say your comments are INDEED ”more” for your reasons why you ”like” Kahani, then I’ll believe you.
What about mentions of Singham, Dabangg and foreign locations? Did you write it or did someone else fake your identity to write those comments? Is it obnoxious to respond to those comments?
Oldgolds comments vis a vis Aamir are hardly for serious consumption. It is pointless to respond. Devoid of either heft, consistency or logic, she changes the argument at the drop of a hat.
She has a right to dislike Aamir but no need to glorify the disingenuous remarks with response and least of all reason or logic as that has no place in OG’s discussion when it comes to Aamir.
NO!!
Don’t try to use fancy words to describe/analyse a perfectly normal dislike/hate for a super star like anyone else’s including *you and Co.*
While I express it openly (like SRK) you all disguise your dislike (Most of the time) in long so called “intellectual” articles” (like Amir) , even the picture chosen to head a post on him screams of it. We behave like the star whose fans we are
In addition there is this gang attack creating such a storm in a tea cup, exaggerating and twisting and colouring my comment, pulling it in all different shapes to make it look like I’m obsessed, without logic etc etc (If I am so are you all).
I don’t mind it. It sharpens my wits and can be quite an eye opener (about many things )…. but, it can get stale when done too often. I won’t play then. Plus it’s very time consuming. People around me are beginning to remark on the time I spend here.
“In addition there is this gang attack creating such a storm in a tea cup, exaggerating and twisting and colouring my comment, pulling it in all different shapes to make it look like I’m obsessed, without logic etc etc (If I am so are you all).
I don’t mind it. It sharpens my wits and can be quite an eye opener (about many things )…. but, it can get stale when done too often. I won’t play then. Plus it’s very time consuming. People around me are beginning to remark on the time I spend here.”
this one has to be the comment of the day. very smartly put, oldgod. i do not agree on any of the points u made in the debate but for this particular comment…i salute u.
Probably the arrogant and no nonsense actor must have seriously insulted someone personally.
I for one wont forgive either.
Can understand and sympathise.
Aamir’s Talaash similar to Vidya’s Kahaani? – Reema speaks up
By Joginder Tuteja,March 22, 2012 – 03:29 hrs IST
#
The makers of Talaash have had enough. Ever since they declared the release of the Aamir Khan starrer from June to November this year, there have been rumours floating around the ‘real reason’ behind that. Even though producers Farhan Akhtar and Riteish Sidhwani have categorically stated that postponement of the film is to avoid clash with Aamir Khan’s TV show, rumour mongers have had a field day attributing the delay to alleged similarities with Vidya Balan’s Kahaani. However there is no truth to the story, as confirmed by the ‘woman-of-the-moment’, Reema Kagti, herself.
“Reema, who has co-written the film with Zoya Akhtar and has directed Talaash, is amused that outsiders seem to know about the film more than her. There is no similarity whatsoever between Talaash and Kahaani but somehow mischief makers are hell bent on establishing that. She was forthcoming enough to tell everyone who cared to ask that the two films were dissimilar. Still, there are some out there who are unwilling to carry the right side of affairs. They are happy to build their own assumptions and spread false stories”, says a friend of the director.
No one associated with Talaash is overtly disturbed though with such loose talk and is just letting it pass by as yet another piece of gossip that comes in and then disappears in a jiffy. Also, the makers are of a strong view that the moment film’s promotional campaign kick-starts and newer visuals are revealed, all such comparisons with Kahaani would become a story of the past.
Says Reema, “Talaash is a totally original film and it is surprising that comparisons are being made with Kahaani. When someone called to ask me about this first, I clearly stated that there was no truth to it. However, it seems people only wanted to highlight the gossip part and in the process the real truth was lost somewhere.”
She reiterates that the delay was due to Aamir’s show and there is no other reason. “In fact Talaash is completely ready and its first cut would be seen soon by Aamir. However, contrary to some other rumours floating around, there is no re-shoot happening whatsoever, least of all due to its climax being allegedly similar to that of Kahaani. Puhleeze, it’s all untrue. For the record, Talaash is totally different form Kahaani.”
When contacted, Riteish Sidhwani maintained the stance. He said, “I haven’t seen Kahaani but whatever I have read about it or caught through the promos, it is not at all like Talaash.”
For a long time it was being debated if Aamir Khan would start Raju Hirani’s untitled film first or the much delayed Dhoom 3.
And now it is finally decided. The actor is doing the Hirani film and since he does only one film at a time, it now seems like Dhoom 3 will have to wait. Says an insider, “Aamir did not want to let go of Raju’s film. Raju wouldn’t have waited and would’ve started the film with Ranbir Kapoor.
Aditya Chopra has no choice but to wait for AK, so his dream project starring Aamir Khan, Abhishek Bachchan, Katrina Kaif and Uday Chopra has once again been pushed back.” So this means poor Katrina Kaif will not get her wish and have a film each with the reigning Khans – Aamir, Salman and Shah Rukh in the same year! We can almost hear Kareena Kapoor laughing out loud.
wow. I can’t believe Aditya Chopra is willing to essentially wait for Aamir. I am VERY excited about Raj hirani’s movie. this is great. More excited about this one than Talaash and D3 combined.
The arrival of his bonny baby boy a few months ago was an event in itself. And now, in addition to Azad Rao Khan, who is quite a handful and more, Aamir Khan has Talaash, Dhoom 3 and a lot more up his sleeve. It’s a full house indeed. Over multiple rounds of piping hot tea and scrumptious snacks, Aamir Khan bares it all to Mirror.
We hear there have been differences between Reema Kagti and you. Portions of Talaash need a reshoot.
That’s not true. Reema has done a fabulous job and I am very happy with the way Talaash has shaped up. It is my home production and I want to be there for it. Since the past few months, I have been too busy with my brainchild, my TV show.
Have you delayed Dhoom 3?
I have postponed it only by a month. I was supposed to start it in June. Now I will shoot for it from July. I play a circus artiste in the film and so I need to get into shape in the remaining time, which I hope to achieve soon under a trainer who has come down from the US.
Your decision to work with Victor Acharya, whose first film Tashan bombed, has surprised many people. What are your thoughts?
I worked with Ashutosh Gowariker in Lagaan but he had also directed Pehla Nasha and Baazi. Rakeysh Mehra hadn’t done well before Rang De Basanti happened. Success and failure is not in our hands. Victor may have gone wrong in Tashan but he is very talented. He has a very fine creative sensibility.
Rajkumar Hirani would have cast Ranbir Kapoor in Peekay had you refused it. But you went on to shatter Ranbir’s dreams…
(Laughs) Why would I not work with Hirani? We start Peekay in December.
We hear you took lessons in swimming for the underwater scenes in Talaash?
I had to do it. I didn’t know swimming at all. I learnt it at a five-star hotel pool. In fact, it took me a long time to get it right. Two full months to be precise.
The way you think before uttering every word, you must be also thinking before every move in the pool.
(Laughs) No. In fact, I react instinctively. I was asked to host a game show. What could be safer than that? If I was treading with caution, wouldn’t I have taken it up?
But you come across as someone who thinks before his every move. It is said that aapka dimaag bahut chalta hai…
(Smiles) I might appear like that. Go by my actions, not by my words (winks). Aur dimaag chalna koi buri baat toh nahin hai na?
Only news you want to share finds it way to the media. For instance, news about the IVF surrogacy came only when you were ready. Comments please?
One day, I shall tell you how I manage to keep things under wraps. But that isn’t going to be today.
But you surprised us by publicly admitting that Kiran and you opted for IVF surrogacy.
Had I done something wrong that I should have hidden it? We are very proud of the whole thing. She had a number of miscarriages. We realised that her uterus lining is very thin for her to carry the baby for nine months. Which is why we opted for this method. Biologically, the baby is ours.
That you are fond of Tiger Shroff is the talk of town.
Tiger is a fine guy with a fabulous physique. If I can find material where I can offer him work, I would be happy. Jackie is so warm. He and Ayesha are family to me. But honestly, Tiger doesn’t need me to become an actor.
Do you think ten years down the line, the likes of Imran Khan, Ranbir Kapoor and Shahid Kapoor will have the kind of fan following you, Shah Rukh and Salman do even at this juncture in your careers?
They are extremely talented and get lots of appreciation.
I am talking about the euphoria that you three Khans generate.
Mera kya euphoria tha early days mein? Abhi bhi nahin hai. Main bas ghodagiri kar raha hoon.
Are you refusing to admit that you are No.1?
I am not No.1. Salman is. Look at his fan following and you will know what I mean.
We hear Kiran and you are looking for a new place in Bandra. When are you shifting?
For now, I have dropped the idea to move into a new house. I want to continue staying where I am.
Of late, Junaid has been in the news. Does he plan to become a hero?
Not that I know of. Whatever he wants to do in life, Reena and I will support him all the way.
What’s Kiran working on?
She was working on a subject but she is not emotionally ready to continue with it, at least for sometime. Right now, she is enjoying motherhood with Azad. Waise this question should be addressed to her and not me. Main kuch bolunga toh joote padenge.
Why is it that every married man speaks exactly like this about the wife?
(Laughs) Why should I be scared of her? I love her. Why should she be scared of me? She loves me. While I directed Taare Zameen Par, I think her film Dhobi Ghat makes me even more proud.
TZP reminds me of Amol Gupte. Will you forgive him? And Chetan Bhagat too?
Who am I to forgive them?
If you bump into them someday?
(Pauses) I wish them well in life.
A bizarre story suggesting Shirish Kunder is re-working Inception (!) with Aamir in mind. I guess Kunder figured since Aamir was already in a Nolan remake, he’d look past the director on this!
January 26, 2012 at 8:52 AM
Looks FANTASTIC! Aamir’s look really works too..
January 26, 2012 at 12:05 PM
I agree. Rani’s look is the more intriguing than Aamir’s though. And according to a UTV exec on twitter all 3 of them have equal prominence in this film. I’m most excited for Rani’s performance out of the three. Interesting how Excel, Reema and Zoya have been able to get stars like Aamir and Hrithik to agree to ensemble films.
January 26, 2012 at 12:47 PM
Yes, Looking forward to Aamir and Rani in this. However, I dont think I would categorize this as an ensemble. There have been 2 “heroine” and 1 hero projects in the past and they were never categorized as such. ZNMD agreed it falls under that. But regardless ensemble or no, We will hopefully get to see a good film.
January 27, 2012 at 5:24 AM
I dnt think Aamir minds as long as the product/script itself is worth it….and I think every actor should think of the script before himself because at the end of the day its all abt teamwork
January 26, 2012 at 8:58 AM
ok kind.. will wait for proper promo.
looks to be a nice thriller with no unnecessary songs/items songs..
January 26, 2012 at 9:04 AM
Decent trailer. Certainly plays it close to the chest, and it’s good to see Aamir in a lead role after some time.
January 26, 2012 at 9:20 AM
In case *my* views go unnoticed I have decided to repost it here. from that other thread which should now become redundant seeing that the teaser has been posted here.
*Must* Amir sport that ferocious scowl?!!!!
Especially when passing through the crowd with that “I’m angry, and I’m looking for someone…see my uniform? That’s what I’m supposed to do!! “(reminded me of his Gajhani expressions)
That’s called hamming IMO.
I wonder if he’s going to ham his way through the film like he did in Gajhani.
January 26, 2012 at 9:39 AM
wow oldgold….how refreshingly different. I am shocked at your comment about Aamir. Didn’t see this one coming !! and yes anyone watching this teaser immediately thinks of the word ‘hamming’ Aamir comes on the screen.
January 26, 2012 at 9:57 AM
LOL!!
January 27, 2012 at 5:26 AM
I actually thought Aamir was brilliant in Ghajni…..he played it well
January 26, 2012 at 10:00 AM
The reaction to the Talaash have been amazing everywhere…
I think Talaash will easily beat any records set.
3i is the big one…if Aamir manages to beat that……it will be earth shattering!
Btw Agneepath is creating waves folks!
January 27, 2012 at 5:31 PM
Yes reactions have been superb! Thousands of likes, shares, comments on Facebook and Youtube in just 24 hours! It’s also the #1 most liked, top favorited, most discussed video on Youtube India today.
As much as I liked it, I think it’s not exactly going to be a record breaker. 3I is impossible. Even if Aamir manages to get this one close to Ready, Dabangg or Bodyguard it will be an achievement.
I don’t doubt Aamir’s star power – but the fact is box office depends on content. Content does not necessarily imply quality, it also includes stuff which is usually observed to have worked with audience – such as songs, dances, comedy etc.
From whatever I’ve read or heard about it, Talaash is a serious film. Songs are there, but no lip sync ones & totally situational. Ram Sampath himself tweeted its music is complete opposite of Delhi Belly. Aamir only insists it’s an ”entertainer” BUT in ”an emotional” manner. Action is there, but not the mainstay of the film or its highlight ala Ghajini!
Even comparing it to Ghajini is impossible. Talaash is commercial but does not have conventional elements of masala entertainers getting success in Bollywood these days.
January 30, 2012 at 10:28 AM
KM: no way on earth that (what looks to be a ) dark/gritty thriller will be breaking any records, let alone those set by 3 Idiots. Don’t see that happening in any industry on earth, much less ours.
January 26, 2012 at 10:01 AM
thank you for this! i am liking the look and feel of it.
but ill be honest the background music and his ‘scowl’ look was reminding me of Ghajni all over again. i wouldnt necessarily label it as hamming as oldgold has said but yeah i’ve seen it before. other than those two things i noticed this promo rocks. im already hooked.
January 26, 2012 at 10:02 AM
LOL, oldgold has set the ball rolling immediately…perhaps it is to do with sheer apprehension of her and many other SRK fans today watching this bloody awesome trailer of Aamir’s new film & breaking out into cold sweat
Can’t blame her or them, can we ?? 
LOL !!
“I wonder if he’s going to ham his way through the film like he did in Gajhani. “….Aamir never did a film called “Gajhani”…actually remember him doing a film called “Ghajini”
As a matter of fact, I have been on Twitter most of the day today mainly to follow updates on the classic Roger-Rafa tennis match today…wow, the overwhelmingly positive responses to the Talaash teaser was quite extraordinary !!
This film is going to be a quite a treat !!
January 26, 2012 at 10:15 AM
Shubh…shubh shubh bola karo.
I’m waiting for this film eagerly, **not as a fan of AK**, but as an ardent fan of the genre. I’ve been starved for it for too long.
I’m glad that no other than Amir’sfan has corroborated my feelings of Gajhani look.
He may not support my other view of hamming, but like the Gajhani view this is a genuine opinion regardless of my being an *absolute* non fan (which makes my opinion to be taken lightly).
I WANT this film to be fantastic and interesting.
January 26, 2012 at 1:37 PM
thats fair enough. i want this film to be good and interesting also. but the common man may think this is a ghajini rehash. if the next promo is full of songs…then itll only add to the ghajini comparison.
i think Aamir should keep the theme as a dark..gripping suspense thriller. i don’t really care about the box office i just want a good movie. 100cr to me looks hard only because of the genre.
January 27, 2012 at 5:36 PM
It can no way be like Ghajini. Ghajini’s subsequent promos were rather bright, with Asin’s camaraderie & Aamir’s romantic songs/scenes with her. Rest assured Aamir isn’t going to appear shirtless romancing his heroines in any song of this film!
From whatever I’ve heard, its songs are nowhere like Ghajini. So Ghajini comparison is out of question!
January 30, 2012 at 10:30 AM
Reema Kagti is among the rarest of breeds in Hindi (or in fact world) filmdom, a female director, joining the short list that’s come to prominence over the last 10 or so years — and Talaash is in a completely different vein than Honeymoon Travels…can’t help but root for her work…
January 26, 2012 at 10:30 AM
The teaser IMO is fine. Nothing great or anything. It’s really hard to make a great teaser unless you are doing a full fledge trailer. What’s nice is to see Aamir in a completely different genre. I doubt that any record will be broken here though. A 70 – 75 CR opening followed by a 140 – 150 CR is what I am looking at here but Aamir has proven from his last two big movies that anything can happen.
January 26, 2012 at 12:09 PM
Trailer looks good gripping. I like a good suspenseful thriller but this genre is mostly for the multiplex audiences. For this genre it will outgross other thrillers but this not a commercial masala movie.
However as I had written before this will be not be a 100
Crore. The reason being that there is no repeat value for a suspense movie. Also the theme for this is dark and gritty and may not appeal to kids and older people.
As an Aamir fan I am looking forward to the movie with an excellent opening due to his reputation but it will not have enough legs to cross the 100 crore.
This is another niche Aamir is exploring after Peeple Live(Satire), Delhi Belly(Adult humour), Dhobhi Ghaat(Art movie) so Talash will be better then those movies but not better then Ghajini.
Anyway the indian audience is more into the masala movies and satisfiled leaving their brains at home watching Dabbang, Ready, Golmaal series, Bodyguard that have no scripts.
Dhoom 3 is another story. That will be his mainstream masala commercial movie that can break records.
January 26, 2012 at 12:14 PM
agreed on your central point.. do think 100 crores or more is possible because Aamir’s prestige should get this the strongest initial possible. It also has two important leads in the female stars. Given that Aamir is always strong on trending just 60 crores in week 1 will get him to a 100. Anything more and he should be able to clear that benchmark more easily. But yes it definitely isn’t a regular commercial genre. Aamir though will get the most out of it that’s possible.
January 26, 2012 at 12:54 PM
I’d bet the aim of this one is to be a big one. Aamir is quite clear in his strategy from what I can see. His small films that gross 15-65crore are basically budgeted in 30cr less category. His big films, like Ghajini and 3 Idiots are marketed much more and budgeted much higher. He knows he needs commercial elements in these films to make big money.
Again Talaash has already been marketing in a loose way with this fake posters and the early teaser is a full 6months before release. You don’t do this unless your expecting a big one.
The trailer looks commercial to me. The idea that it will be less than 100 crore etc…well Aamir usually defies this and how. Track record is people felt RDB would not make more than 30 crore or TZP more than 30 crore or 3 Idiots more than 80-90 crore. If the film works, and it opens big, it will make big numbers. Opening and wide opening is key to gauging this.
January 26, 2012 at 1:23 PM
these are fair points.. my contention is that even with a relatively dark, less conventionally commercial film 100 crores is in play. But you’re right that Aamir wouldn’t agree to a major budget (he’s also co-producing this) for a film he didn’t think could do a lot commercially. And as always his biggest trump card is that anyone with a pulse shows up for his films!
January 26, 2012 at 12:18 PM
The trade wrote off ZNMD as having niche appeal as well. The first Delhi Belly teaser did not look encouraging at all. Don’t underestimate the Aamir-Akhtar team- I’m sure they’ll plan a brilliant marketing campaign and then the star power of Aamir along with Kareena/Rani will ensure a historic opening. This looks like it will be of a much higher quality than most Bollywood action/thrillers so WOM and trending should be good. I think that it could do a 100 crore first week easily and then another 100 crores including the international Market.
January 27, 2012 at 5:47 PM
I agree with your points. But I think *maybe* it could somehow reach at least a 100 crore & as Satyam has said, the opening would be massive enough to ensure the film at least gets to 100 crore. Anything above 100 crore depends totally on how audience responds to the film.
All said and done, this is not exactly going to be a biggie – going by its serious feel.
But as thecooldude said, in the end you never know what would actually happen as Aamir Khan has managed ”the seemingly unlikely” stuff in the past.
January 26, 2012 at 12:28 PM
More importantly, the film will be releasing at a very opportunate time just post IPL & also when the summer vacations are still on in most of the country…possibly with a huge screen count.
With Aamir you just never know…in fact remember distinctly that before the release of 3I, there was speculation on the film not being”commercial” enough as compared to a Ghajini…the rest is history !
January 27, 2012 at 5:52 PM
I agree with you on its time of release being an opportune time. But we should also keep in mind that a lot of movies are releasing this year around the same months – AV, FKS, Rowdy Rathore etc. unlike previous years.
And also in previous years the post-IPL hit films have been all comedies or light-hearted entertainers like Housefull and Ready. Whereas Talaash does not fall into that category.
I remember how Fanaa got overshadowed by Phir Hera Pheri & later Krissh only because it was a tad more serious compared to more light-hearted conventional entertainers as other two films.
January 27, 2012 at 8:19 PM
Fanaa made a lot more than PHP though even without Gujarat. Krrish was a different deal, the whole superhero thing and so on. But Fanaa did extremely well, especially so in the North.
January 26, 2012 at 12:56 PM
No resemblance to “The secrets in theie eyes” whatsoever.
January 27, 2012 at 5:58 PM
Media & film fans online have been throwing whispers here and there about the film being inspired or based on X, Y, Z film or TV show (NDTV tried to compare to Dexter!) – but insiders insist Talaash is an original film (dunno how correct those *insiders* are!).
The hearsay about inspiration is uncalled for as the film has been kept totally under wraps & its teaser is too vague to reveal anything which might lead us to draw proper conclusions about the exact story of the film!
Which film or TV show or book it seems inspired from, can be discussed only after it has released!
January 26, 2012 at 1:21 PM
@ami – I loved ZNMD and deserved better box office then what I got. However it had some humour and was more mainstream that all audiences could identify with except the small towns. Taalash looks more dark and
@Shubh. Yes it will release post IPL but this year unlike the last 2 years there are quite a few big movies (Housefull 2, Tezz, Agent Vinod, Jannat 2) and some other like Ferrari Ki Sawari releasing during the IPL so I think this time there is no gap.
@ Satyam and jayshah – It will be interesting to see how Aamir markets this movie since it is suspense thriller without giving too much away. 3 Idtiots was clearly a family entertainer for all audiences.
One thing Aamir only market to the target audience that he thinks the movie will appeal to.
Hoping to be proved wrong since we have not had a successful suspensful thriller since GUPT which I enjoyed.
January 26, 2012 at 1:33 PM
I think it’s often less about genres (suspense or whatever) than it is about the film making an emotional connection with the audience. The reason a number of suspense films don’t work is because directors don’t focus enough on this aspect, always important for a commercial industry. This is not likely to happen though with Aamir who’s hyper-concerned about this aspect of things! So I’d think even with a somewhat darker, unconventional subject (which is to say commercial but not completely so) it’s hard to see a scenario where it does less than hard even with a 60 crore opening or so. On the other hand Aamir gets everyone in and he also has good trending all the time. So a 70 crore number could get him closer to that 150 mark. However if the film is more commercial than this preview looks then Jay is absolutely right that much more is possible. People forget that the two kinds of films that gross a lot are a) the obvious blockbuster types that please everyone b) the somewhat less universal ones in terms of subject that nonetheless strike a huge chord with cross-sections of the audience. So we’re looking at the 3I model in one case and the RDB model in the other. Both can bring in very big numbers. Obviously 3I is just the absolute biggest deal but Talaash could be working off a Ghajini model. We’ll have to wait for more previews but again Aamir’s greatest strength is that the audience trusts him so even less than exciting previews don’t quite impact him the way they do every other star. But I did like this preview a lot.
January 26, 2012 at 3:13 PM
also the fact that aamir must have agreed with the title “Talaash” – as the word would gel well with even a non-multiplex audience….
January 27, 2012 at 6:02 PM
Haha! Aamir badly wanted the title Dhuan, but it was registered with some other producer. So they finally had to settle with Talaash!
BTW, agree with points made by Satyam.
January 26, 2012 at 3:44 PM
Good points, Satyam
January 27, 2012 at 8:36 AM
@cooltech-nothing^^
Just wanted to “@” u as well haha
Lol@”ferocious scowl”
Oldgold is “on fire” haha
Ps-somehow find this title “talaash” too insipid and boring …
January 27, 2012 at 9:20 AM
>somehow find this title “talaash” too insipid and boring …
Why??
Because the title’s not in English ? or some stupid mixture like JWM or some such nonsense)
January 27, 2012 at 9:29 AM
Haha oldgold : u r really in form 2de
Forgot-did i give your ‘dose’ 4 today-joking
Btw note that u r wearing red today-hmm
Well, talaash is way too dull
Even’ dabang’ had a certain resonance to it
Imagine dabang been named as something drab..
Don’t mind anything in Hindi -something less cliche
January 26, 2012 at 1:40 PM
trailer without dialogue hmmm
with dialogue promo one will get the clearer picture but ya it looks good
January 26, 2012 at 2:32 PM
Satyam ji ,
Nice to saw Talaash trailer & also poster .Great to saw Amir Khan in his new look. Thanks.
January 26, 2012 at 6:58 PM
A few films I’ve seen recently…
Lots of Shammi kapoor films this time – finally caught up on his brand of cinema. Won’t describe the stories but I enjoyed them, particularly for the incredible soundtracks. One gem after another.
Memsaheb
A comedy with a young Meena Kumari and Kishore. Shammi plays the villain!
Junglee
Shammi’s first superhit. Saira Banu’s debut I think. SJ gave an awesome soundtrack. Ehsaan Tera Hoga Mujhpar, Din Saara Guzaara Tere angana, Kashmir Ki Kali Hoon Main, Suku Suku, Ja Ja Ja Mere Bachpan and of course Chaahe Koi Mujhe Junglee Kahe…Yaahoo!!!
Professor
Shammi Kapoor dressing up as an old man! Nice songs by SJ – Awaaz Deke Hamein Tum Bulaao, Aye Gulbadan, Main Chali Main Chali, Khuli Falak Mein Jhootha Ghussa
Kashmir Ki Kali
Sharmila Tagore’s first film. Story feels very familar but what songs by OP Nayyar!! Deewana Hua Baadal, Yeh Chaand Sa Roshan Chehra, Ishaaron Ishaaron Mein Dil Lene Waale.
Jaanwar
This felt slightly more serious than the other Shammi films. But still lots of fun. Tum Se Achha Kaun Hai, Lal Chhaddi, Meri Mohabbat Jawaan Rahegi.
Brahmchaari
I’d heard that this was Shammi’s best performance. He plays a guy who looks after lots of orphans. Vaguely reminded me of HHRPK. Mumtaz was lovely in Aaj Kal Tere Mere Pyar Ke Charche.
Andaaz
Hema looks so beaitiful in this film. I enjoyed it – about a widow and widower falling in love. I especially liked the way Hema’s mixed feelings were handled (though her acting as usual was competent at best…)
Hero
Can’t believe I sat through this! Definitley obvious this is an eighties movie. Watchable in a strange way. Meenakshi actually came across really well. Sanjeev Kumar always a pleasure to see. Jackie was okay… One of Shammi’s last big films i guess.
Entourage Season 8
Remained brilliant till the end. Gonna really miss the gang.
Can’t believe the final season is over
Baaje Payal
I randomly came across this on youtube. It was made by Asha Parekh I guess in the early 90′s. Jaya Bhaduri interviews an actress each week about how she learnt to dance, her greatest dances and some thoughts from co-stars. I saw the episodes with Vjayantimala, Hema Malini, Saira Banu and Sridevi. Really good show. The Saira Banu episode was particularly good…I haven’t seen much of her work so didn’t realise what a good dancer she was. Would love to see more episodes but can’t find anymore…
Maryada
1971 film which i think is really interesting simply because it stars Mala Sinha in a double role, opposite Rajkumr (with whom she did several movies) but very surprisingly also opposite Rajesh Khanna, who was actually 6 years younger than her in real life. Yet she looks beautiful and they don’t look remotley awkward together. A really silly film though, with a complicated plot that i won’t bother to describe. Several nice songs though. Mukesh’s Zubaan Per Dard Bhari Dastaan, Lata-Kishore Chupke Se Dil Daide plus a few more. The cast make it just about bearable.
Dhan Daulat
This was a not so good film from 1980, with Neetu Singh and Rish Kapoor. Neetu seemed rather bored by the whole thing but Rish was decent. Mala Sinha plays his mum and is watchable. Rajendra Kumar plays the Sanjeev Kumar character from Trishul (though here he it was an accident that made him leave Mala then not be able to find her later). Not worth watching.
Nau Do Gyaarah
The last 15 mins of the film were cut sio I missed the climax! Brilliant soundtrack by SD Burman…Aankhon Mein Kya Ji, Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke etc. Dev Anand stars with his wife.
Tere Mere Sapne
Decent marital/medical drama with Dev Anand and Mumtaz. Good soundtrack.
Jagir
The latest rare Meena Kumari film I was able to find. Sadly not a good movie, but always a pleasure to watch my favourite actress. The search for the remaining 10-15 movies continues.
Aa Ab Laut Chale
I watched this cos I read in an interview of Manmohan Desai that this film was the closest to his heart but flopped. It was fun to watch actually, about a couple who get seperated due to a big misunderstanding, and there’s a child involved too. Sharmila Tagore and Shashi Kapoor make a good couple. Few nice songs too.
Sahib Bibi aur Ghulam
Was home for a few days so made my sister watch a few old films. And what better than Meena Kumari in her finest performance
Sujata
As above. One of my favourite films. Nutan is magic. And Jalte Hain Jiske Liye…aah!
Shaheed
Also saw this with my sister. I’ve watched it before. Def one of Manoj Kumar’s best films. Great performances and incredible music. The later versions cannot touch this one.
January 26, 2012 at 10:24 PM
Of all Shammi Kapoor films, I have always liked Andaaz the best along with Teesri manzil.
And I think you mean ‘Aaa Gale Lag Jaa’ -Aa Ab Laut Chale is an unbearable movie!
January 27, 2012 at 6:29 PM
When I saw TM a few years back i didn’t like it but I think that’s cos I was pretty anti-Shammi Kapoor at the time (i’ve loosened up a little now!). I’m sure I’d enjoy it if I saw it again…even if just for the songs.
Haha, yes I meant Aa Gale Lag Jaa!
January 27, 2012 at 5:31 AM
What fun it must’ve been watching all these films.
Junglee wasn’t Shammi’s first super hit. It was Tumsa Nahin Dekha which set his trademark acting style. Fabulous songs.
I’d never heard of Jagir. Where’d you get it from? Lucky you.
January 27, 2012 at 10:15 AM
Btw oldgold -what do u feel about these old songs vvvv
Were they as popular in those / your times or have they developed a more “nostalgic aura” now
Also what are your top ten ‘old’ songs currently -thanx
January 27, 2012 at 6:30 PM
Yea ur right, though i’ve not yet seen TND – wil check it out at some point cos yes the songs are awesome
Found Jagir randomly online so I immedialey ordered the DVD. There are a few Meena Kumari films I’m still desperate to see but I doubt I’ll get hold of them
January 26, 2012 at 7:16 PM
Yo salimjakhra–nice to hear from u-hope the lithium is flowing lol
Watched 20 min of kashmir ki kali–must say these films have their own charm now.. have a certain innocence…
Talkin of shammi kapoor–a song currently on my playlist
Blast from the past
ANd check out this one–
Apparently dev anand picked this as his OWN favorite in london few days before his death–(anecdotal report)
My current favorite bollywood old films fave—
January 27, 2012 at 6:33 PM
Phoolon Ke Rang Se is a song i’ve been addicted to the past few days too. Though I’m not keen on Dev Anand from that phase of his career…
January 26, 2012 at 7:28 PM
The Conscientious Aamir
Didnt even watch the trailer–will watch this film…Why?
The ONE word to describe aamirs work ethic in the last decade has been “CONSCIENTIOUS”.
Audience feels that he wont ditch them and their goodwill for a good initial…
This “rapport” has been carefully built up over the years and dont remember many (infact any) such case over a prolonged period .
Even the great ones had duds in between
BUt remind me of any recent duds from aamir
And may someone sugggest a similar arallel–satyam, anything comes to your mind?
Talking of “talaash” or whateva this film will be called
there is only one thing in this setup which will hook audience interest and people wont hesitate giving it a try even with bad reviews
ps–all the others like kareena and rani and even Excel are merely incidental here. The former two specially here (maybe workig for free) to gain a quick hit and name in a good worthy product….
ps2-having watched the promo now –good but not as good as i expected–but am sure the aamir effect will take care of the film..
All this talk of “cerebral thriller” is ok but knowing aamir and the multiplex audience, suspect the “cerebral’ bit will be limited and only as a guise to the structure to lure people into believing that theyve finally watched and appreciated a niche product….lol
January 26, 2012 at 9:15 PM
Excellent. This might not break 3I’s record but certainly will be second Biggest grosser ever. Aamir is truly the Shehensah of Bollywood.
January 26, 2012 at 10:34 PM
dont think..aamir can be tagged as the Shahenshah when the real emperor is still ruling the hearts of this nation ..even after 40 odd years of entertaining our people..in a country where they dont even spare his flops (Agneepath).
January 26, 2012 at 10:39 PM
no lie i saw a commercial by ‘incredible india’ with amitabh bachchan on visiting the state of gujurat on CNN earlier today. im not sure if it was CNN that aired it or it was run by the cable company.
January 26, 2012 at 10:53 PM
“real emperor is still ruling the hearts of this nation”
The ex emperor was ruling 20/30 years ago with the help of multi starrers. His era has ended already in 80′s.
Aamir is the top most star right now commercially and critically also. He is the new Shehenshah …
January 27, 2012 at 5:36 AM
Disagree…..
and btw Dont behave like karan johar…. u dont need to appreciate someone by disrespecting and dementing some thing which is a reality…. Both are masters of their craft… this is the way world luks at them
January 26, 2012 at 10:36 PM
if this guy makes a full on suspense thriller like this a 150cr grosser then ive just run out of words for him and how great his ‘greatness’ is. lol. if that makes any sense!
i think it will obviously open huge because of the heavy promotion and because of Aamir Khan but after that it might not have repeat value…like others have mentioned to last to a 100cr grosser.
i see it opening at 60-65 and ending up at 90-95cr which would be aamirs most poorly trended film in a while.
i would label ghajini as a suspense thriller but on a commercial basis which is why it trended decently. talaash seems like a very dark suspense thriller without any element of commercialism and thus another risk and challenge aamir likes to do. always against the tide.
January 26, 2012 at 10:44 PM
This teaser makes an impact in the theater.
January 27, 2012 at 12:01 AM
Alright…works pretty well for me…almost as well as Don 2. Personally found the Don 2 trailer more gripping (but obviously I’m being biased because SRK starred in Don 2).
But, in all fairness, I would say it looks like a worthwhile watch. Aamir looks decent … like the new look, but, expressions so far remind me of Ghajini. But, I think I’ll be watching this one…looks good! Hopefully, the action will be as slick as Don 2. If it is and the story is up to par, then, I’m all up to watching this film!
I can’t compare Don 2 and Talaash already, because obviously, it’s only a trailer.
And just unbiasedly [if that's a word] speaking, I am looking forward to this more than I am for YRF’s next…guess the genre just excites me more.
OVERALL — I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO WATCHING THE MOVIE IN THEATRES EITHER ON THE 2ND OR THE 3RD DAY!
January 27, 2012 at 6:10 PM
Appreciate your honesty Arsh.
Story cannot really be doubted because its an Aamir Khan film & also because he himself has been raving about how much he loved the script & was excited by it.
Action part – I think it should neither be compared to Ghajini nor Don 2. It’s more of a suspense drama – emphasis is more on psychological elements and emotions (from what I’ve read about it) – action is there, but it is just a part of the film. It’s not at all an all out action film like Ghajini or Don series.
Good to know you liked the first look and are looking forward to it.
January 28, 2012 at 12:35 PM
I mean, there’s always a hint of doubt in me…even for Shahrukh. Honestly speaking, Ghajini was kinda disappointing. It should have been action [personally speaking]…but, there were so many speed breakers in between. That’s the reason I like Don 2. There were no speed breakers [except for just 1 right at the start w/ Roma and Malik]. But, I have to give Aamir this…he has the best sense of movies in Bollywood!
Suspense part – I really hope they make this part interesting, and don’t fail like 8 x 10 Tasveer. Good luck to Aamir
January 27, 2012 at 2:43 PM
Close to 7 Lac views on youtube For the Talaash Teaser within a Day Shows The POWER OF AAMIR KHAN !! Without revealing much in the Promo even the visuals Makes an IMPACT !! Talaash Teaser is a SURESHOT WINNER !! And if promoted well it ll easily cross 150 cr + ( Marketing Genius )
January 28, 2012 at 1:20 PM
♫So, I was browsing through facebook, and what should I see?
But SRK fanboy’s “Aamir Khan is a copycat” plea!♫
Yeah, but, in all seriousness guys…just wanna say…please stop hating…the fanboys on facebook were posting crap that Talaash was a copy and Aamir is a copycat post. This really makes me…frustrated [to say the least].
So, I’m asking you guys … please keep THIS blog hate free.
I hate haters! that’s all! Thanks
January 29, 2012 at 12:07 AM
It has 1.1 million views already as of Sunday morning
January 30, 2012 at 9:50 AM
considering the hype already..I think this will beat Agneepath which I think will be the biggest hit until Talaash releases.
January 30, 2012 at 10:23 AM
This will probably be a multiplex hit like ZNMD. Expect it to do 100 cr at least, which will be great.
January 31, 2012 at 12:23 PM
I agree that this will be favoured more by the multiplex crowd..however this has been sold quite high and this starring Aamir…..the buildup to this will be immense.
I remember the Ghajni hype was amazing..it was obvious that it was going to be a monster at the BO.
I wouldn’t put it past Aamir to take this to 150cr
January 30, 2012 at 10:25 AM
Wow — as with all Excel films, this is a bit too Hollywoody, but I am definitely intrigued. Really like Aamir’s and Rani’s look here. I hope Kareena isn’t playing a hooker here, but I think that is likely the case…
January 30, 2012 at 4:41 PM
Aamir scores Rs. 90 crore deal
Vickey Lalwani
Posted On Tuesday, January 31, 2012 at 02:16:08 AM
Aamir Khan seems to have created a record yet again. Beating Shah Rukh Khan’s Don 2 by a margin of Rs 10 crore, the theatrical rights for his forthcoming film co-starring Kareena Kapoor and Rani Mukerji, Talaash has been sold to Reliance for Rs 90 crore.
The deal between producer Excel Entertainment and Reliance was finalised last week. A source close to the production house informed Mumbai Mirror, “Rs 90 crore is a huge amount. Don 2 sold for Rs 80 crore and that was already an established franchise. This however, puts a lot of recovery pressure on Talaash.”
Trade analyst Amod Mehra however, did not feel that the amount was too surprising. “I think it’s a reasonable amount,” said Mehra.
Excel Entertainment and Reliance remained unavailable for comment.
January 30, 2012 at 5:27 PM
Never understood how such deals get through. From the teaser itself its evident that it will work only with a section of the audience. 90 cr is a lot of bucks to recover even considering nontheatrical revenues.
This is not going to be a Ghajini or 3 Idiots for sure.
January 31, 2012 at 11:53 AM
woah….that’s been sold at a really high price.
Satyam…..at what stage will this film be a hit in terms of recovery at the BO
January 31, 2012 at 12:03 PM
not sure if these numbers are accurate so can’t comment either way. Will say that this film can make big money. The other 100 crore grossers don’t mean much because as I keep saying most of those are underperformers. Leaving this aside Aamir will never make a less than sensible investment as a producer, nor will he ever agree to a film that even if acceptable in every sense, has an unreasonable budget. He’s the smartest guy around in these matters. Even this film has three producers — Excel, Aamir, Reliance.
January 31, 2012 at 12:44 PM
Dont think Reliance is the producer, it seems they bought the theatrical rights at 90 cr.
January 31, 2012 at 1:21 PM
The trailer says Aamir and Excel.. Nahta said Reliance are part of it also. Check out his trailer review video above..
February 1, 2012 at 7:17 AM
Let’s say this has been sold at 90crs….what sort of BO collections would make it a genuine hit/blockbuster?
February 1, 2012 at 7:31 AM
KM, by the standards the Bombay trade puts out regularly for these films it just needs to gross 40 crores! It’s already a hit! Everything else comes through satellite rights and what not. At 80 it’s a superhit. If it touches 100 crores it’s a massive one. I am not exaggerating at all. This is what they’ve been putting out on everything from Ra One to Agneepath!
Here’s the issue — the original Agneepath released today would have had the same numbers and the same graph as the current one. But in those days there were genuine standards. Today scams are practiced all the time in the name of the box office. so films with a trending ratio that wouldn’t be accepted as successes anywhere in the world, including in Bombay not so long ago, including in South India even today, are routinely called blockbusters by the Bombay trade and this narrative is then disseminated through the media. Of course it depends on the ‘good offices’ of certain stars and films to an extent. Ghajini was a called huge by everyone but didn’t get this sort of favorable coverage. Going by these standards Ghajini was one of the biggest hits ever! MP had it released today and done exactly what it did then (actually it would have done way better today with its masala credentials but let’s leave that aside) would have probably been minimally a 130 crore grosser. In 2005 it opened to over 17 crores, the biggest initial of its time and one where it edged out VZ, and ended up at 28-32 crores depending on who you believe. So even in the worst case scenario you’d be looking at a 60:40 split on initial week versus final total. That means that with an 80 crore week 1 (since it did have the biggest initial then) it would easily do the number I’ve just presented. That would put it well ahead of even Ready let alone Ra One and don 2 and almost certainly Agneepath. And the film was being called a flop then. 2005 isn’t a million years ago!
So it’s hard to answer these questions without context. I could say a 90 crore film needs to do 150 minimally or whatever. But this standard isn’t being applied to films that ‘cost’ 150 crores or more! The bar has just been pulled down so incredibly low unless a film had 20 crores or day 1, 10 crores on day 2, 5 on day 3 and 0 on day 4 they say it’s a success and it entered the 100 crore club! No number is an absolute. These are all underperformers even if not flops. Once they were saying the same stuff about 70 crore grossers and so on till one day Ghajini suddenly changed everything. Today it’s a 100 crore club when 3I has been sitting pretty at 200 for a while. No film has even done 150 so far! Somehow you just scrape 100 and you’re ok. But 100 doesn’t mean anything. It’s just the new 70 as 70 was once the new 40. If BnB released today (again a film that would be even more helped today) the film would make probably 140-150 crores off a 70 crore week 1 (at the time it had a big week 1 number but not the biggest.. it trended very well). Again all of this is not that long ago. And even today we have films in very different genres like Rajneeti or singham or ZNMD trending very well. There is just no excuse for these abysmal standards. But it’s become a propaganda game where if it’s not a disaster it can be sold like a hit and then everyone from the German govt to the UK one starts subsidizing costs and satellite deals and everything else goes sky high and every kind of budget is conveniently accounted for. This is not box office reporting. It’s a scam!
And so once more within these contexts it’s hard to answer the Talaash question in any sincere way.
February 2, 2012 at 7:33 AM
I agree….Aamir has always been adamant that everyone involved in his movies….production/distribution should not lose money so he will ensure that this is sold at a sensible price
January 30, 2012 at 4:46 PM
January 31, 2012 at 12:55 PM
A very good trailer in the sense it creates the excitement. Not as awesome as I was expecting but still does the job as far as curiousity for he film is concerned.
expect it to be another huge grosser for Aamir.
February 1, 2012 at 9:43 AM
The Trailer says Reliance Entertainment in association with Excel Entertainment and Aamir khan Productons . Aamir khan distributed Delhi Belly with UTV and Talaash will be distributed by Aamir , Excel and Reliance . So this news of Reliance buying Talaash rights is totally fake since they are themseleves producing it . Funny thing about all this the media which is reporting Talaash rights got sold for record price 90 cr that beats of Don 2 80 cr were reporting this earlier http://www.hindustantimes.com/News-Feed/Cinema/Rs-300-crore-riding-on-SRK/Article1-569194.aspx . The productuion cost of Talaash is no more than 40 cr http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-which-khan-will-rule-the-2012-box-office/20120123.htm . Anyway this is too early to talk about this and media too seems to be speculating quoting high numbers . We will know more on this when the release of Talaash gets closer .
February 2, 2012 at 7:29 AM
Imo this year only 3 movies have a chance of breaking or getting near the 3i BO total:
1. Dabang2
2. Talaash
3. Ek Tha Tiger
The rest will be happy to break the 100cr barrier
February 2, 2012 at 8:58 AM
I am almost certain that 1 and 3 won’t do it for different reasons. Talaash looks like a dark film, hard to see it get to the 3I number, I can see a scenario for 150 crores. Having said that with a ‘true’ film things are always a bit unpredictable. Anything can happen but 200 is very improbable. Unless of course the film has more commercial hooks than seems to be the case at this point.
February 2, 2012 at 11:27 AM
4 months to go still…why so long?
February 3, 2012 at 7:45 AM
Has Aamir agreed to Hirani’s film?
It’d be brilliant if Aamir could release 2 films nxt year :
D3 – summer release
Hirani’s film – xmas
February 2, 2012 at 10:09 AM
what…no KYA SUPER COOL HAIN HUM on this list?
February 6, 2012 at 3:06 PM
Waiting for Talaaash.. Aamir kitna wait karate ho…
February 17, 2012 at 12:05 PM
Aamir Khan all set to rock! Talaash winning all polls & surveys on most awaited films! He was on a break for 2 years plus Talaash had no hype. Still humongous response! Youtube trending medals and now #1 most awaited film in India and globally Surpasses Salman Khan’s Ek Tha Tiger , Srk’s Next & Dabangg 2 !!!
http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movies/slideshow/type/view/id/1053/Results+of+The+Most+Awaited+Movies+of+2012
March 5, 2012 at 2:45 PM
Here’s a rumoured synopsis of Talaash (not sure if it’s indeed official) – http://www.hoyts.com.au/Movies/details/Talaash.aspx
March 5, 2012 at 2:54 PM
Sounds good if it is true. And even happier to hear that it’s not based on The Secret in their Eyes.
March 5, 2012 at 3:19 PM
Sounds intriguing, although the Kareena angle, if not handled well, risks ending up as no more than a stock noir cliche…
March 5, 2012 at 3:29 PM
Interesting but am not sure of the commercial viability. Sound a little dark.
March 5, 2012 at 8:08 PM
Rosie? Is that a nod to Guide? I like the sound of the premise-it seems ‘viable’ enough- if you know what I mean-I doubt you could write a synopsis for most of our action/thriller films without the premise coming off sounding outlandish and/or stupid. But I highly doubt this is the official one- why would it be released in such a low-key way with only one foreign website publishing it?
And why is Aamir being so quiet on the marketing front- less than 3 months to go- and hardly any one is aware of the film. I don’t think the teaser really clicked with a lot of people either. Hope his marketing genius does not fail him this time.
March 6, 2012 at 3:06 AM
@Ami
You’re right. There are doubts about how true this synopsis might be.
But the bit about Kareena’s role is similar to what other articles have been saying all along. There was an article in Indian Express last year about a child actor in an underwater scene in Talaash. If that article is to be believed then maybe it points towards the child’s death as mentioned in this ”synopsis”. [Just an assumption!]
Heard from a reliable source that this synopsis which appeared online does indeed have similarities to the actual story of Talaash. [He was quite tight-lipped and revealed only this much when I asked! I trust that guy because so far whatever he's said about this film or its promotions has turned out to be true.]
This ”synopsis” is on a couple of other Australian websites too!
As for marketing, in past also Aamir has promoted his films only 2 months before their release. He never starts 3-4 months in advance! In fact, even the first teasers of Ghajini, TZP, 3I etc. released only 2 months before their release. I think he came out with the teaser earlier this time only to dispel rumours about Talaash (including the ones which insisted that the film had been delayed further and wouldn’t even release on June 1!).
The teaser has only been put up online (without any special launch event or something). It has got record hits on Youtube and that’s about it as of now.
It is not being shown on TV channels also.
BTW, how is Kareena being named Rosie (if this synopsis is true) a nod to Guide? Kareena’s playing a prostitute here while Rosie in Guide was only daughter of a prostitute (if I’m not mistaken), not a prostitute herself!
March 6, 2012 at 3:09 AM
@Rajen
Had same thoughts seeing even images from the making of this film. And even more after reading tidbits about it, including this ”synopsis”. Talaash doesn’t even have 3 open weeks like Ready had last year when it released around same time.
March 6, 2012 at 2:33 AM
Agreed completely. Even India Today describes Kareena’s role in Talaash same as the synopsis I posted above –
”she is a prostitute who tempts Aamir Khan, a married policeman investigating a superstar’s death in Mumbai.”
Link – http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/bollywood-heroines-kareena-vidya-balan-get-bigger-roles-better-brands-in-2012/1/176119.html
[Though there's a difference between ''tempting'' a cop & helping him investigate the case as mentioned in the rumoured synopsis above!]
March 6, 2012 at 8:08 AM
Thanks for the info Prateek
The thing is- back in the 3I and Ghajini days most films started marketing later- these days marketing campaigns need to be over a long period of time and very aggressive- take the Delhi Belly campaign for instance.
BTW- not sure at all if Rosie is a nod to Guide- just a guess. She doesn’t have to be the exact same as the Waheeda Rehman character though- it could be that just the name and some characteristics/ elements of her story arc are similar.
I hope this film does well- it seems to be one of the few genuine attempts to make a good film this year.
March 6, 2012 at 12:15 PM
Sukhwinder Singh on Aamir’s TV Show http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/more/videos/view/id/1419989
March 13, 2012 at 9:26 AM
http://www.indiafm.com/more/news/view/id/1421660
Talaash has been postponed!!!!!!
March 13, 2012 at 10:11 AM
Strange.. quite disappointing also.. he’s not had a major release in so long.. but now he will have this and D3 relatively close to each other.
How ironic the film’s title suddenly becomes..
March 13, 2012 at 10:18 AM
He wants to focus on his new TV show, apparently. But this means we will have three Khan films in quick succession: SRK’s YRF film on Diwali, Aamir’s Talaash in November, and Salman’s Dabangg 2 on Dec. 21 (Of course Salman will also have ETT on Eid, which is in August this year, so not so close before Diwali).
March 13, 2012 at 10:23 AM
I just looked it up — Diwali is on Nov. 13 this year, a Tuesday. So, will YRF release their film on the Tuesday and have an “extended weekend”, which would still leave them with barely two weeks before Aamir’s film releases, or release theirs on the previous Friday (Nov. 9) and get about three weeks before Aamir’s film? Even this best case scenario would mean the three Khan films releasing with barely three weeks in between each. Quite unusual, indeed!
March 14, 2012 at 6:03 AM
SRK-YRF movie, Khiladi 786 and “may be” Son of Sardar will be releasing on November 14th Wednesday for a 5 day weekend.
Next weekend will be free before Talaash comes.
They wont be releasing it on Tuesday itself as collections usually suffer badly post noon time on Diwali days….
In total the movies will have 16 days to themselves, which are more than enough in todays dynamics to post big numbers.
March 13, 2012 at 10:19 AM
That’s really too bad. Was looking forward to seeing this sooner rather than later.
March 13, 2012 at 6:00 PM
this is so damn frustrating. why announce a release date in the first place then??!! June was the perfect month for this movie. Aamir had the space all to himself. Now in Nov like sm mentioned..theres that huge YashRaj film…then D2 coming in dec. its way too damn crowded. i won’t be surprised if it moved to jan 13. this is a huge mistake i think. same thing happened with Ghajini i remember..it kept getting delayed.
also, will aditya chopra wait for aamir to do his TV show instead of starting D3?? i also wouldnt be surprised if Aamir was replaced by SRK in D3. I’m sure this news did not go down well in the YashRaj camp.
March 13, 2012 at 6:02 PM
that said…Aamir has certainly earned his fans benefit of the doubt…but it is still so damn frustrating to be his fan sometimes….
March 13, 2012 at 7:53 PM
I agree that it is very disappointing that Talaash and Dhoom 3 have been constantly delayed (postponed). I wish Aamir’s television show had been postponed instead. I wish movie actors would leave television to the television actors. I’m not sure that 3 big Khan movies will come out in the span 3-4 weeks. One or two of those movies will be moved. Hopefully everything will work out.
March 13, 2012 at 10:26 PM
The November 30 date is also not confirmed. Just notice how they’ve merely ”quoted” Ritesh Sidvani in the press release (like previous press releases!) whereas neither Farhan Akhtar, nor Aamir Khan or Ritesh Sidvani themselves have come out in open and confirmed it! Ritesh did tweet about its postponement. But he did NOT mention the exact date it would now release.
March 14, 2012 at 4:42 AM
This is very very disappointing, Aamir is really making it difficult for his producers. I also don’t understand this postponement for a TV series. In fact it would be a disadvantage as he would have had so much visibility that the interest in the movie might be less
March 14, 2012 at 5:00 AM
” I also don’t understand this postponement for a TV series”
I do.
Remember the stage performance wherein he needed a month by his own admission
Films are different where u can do umpteen takes and rehearsals (behind doors and @home)
But in stage shows and interactive tv
Shows. A certain amount of spontaneity and improvisation comes in
Not that he can’t do it
But its just that this doesmt cum naturally to him
Also he loaths to come up with sowmthig substandard and takes his presence in a project quite seriously -this is actually a good thing in a way
March 14, 2012 at 5:25 AM
IF this is ture…that he is delaying talaash for his TV show…well in this case…Aamir needs to choose. he’s signed these two movies before the TV show commitment. he needs to fulfill the movie commitments first and foremost. thats only fair to his producers who are prob pissed(mainly aditya chopra).
March 14, 2012 at 5:25 AM
*true
March 16, 2012 at 7:52 AM
@Aamirsfan
Correction : Aamir did the TV show before he even looked at script of Talaash or D3. He’s revealed in interviews last year itself that his life has revolved around this TV show only since the last year & a half.
But I totally agree he should not have announced release date if he was not sure. Or better still, he should not have signed movies at all & focussed entirely on TV show if he was so obsessed with it.
March 14, 2012 at 5:27 AM
It would have been better if the movie released first. It would have given him the visibility for his TV show! And if he was not ready with his TV show, why not postpone the TV show??
March 14, 2012 at 6:24 AM
But he’s been working on the show for more than 2 years now! Besides it will last only for 13 weeks or so. It’s not a lengthy series and neither is each episode supposed to feature Aamir! It’s little about rehearsals…I feel he’s more worried because this is also produced by him and he’s totally new to territory of television, hence the nervousness or need to focus entirely on the show.
He’s still not sure of Talaash release date! In his interview today, he talks in circles about Talaash release date saying they are looking to release it either on November 30 or December 6! – http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-most-ambitious-project-of-aamirs-career/20120314.htm
I guess it will get shifted to 2013. No way it could release with so many other big films!
March 14, 2012 at 6:36 AM
Confirmed again – The actual release date of Talaash is still not confirmed. Aamir & co., now looking at either November 30 or first week of December to release the film.
And here’s Aamir apologising to fans!
http://www.boxofficeindia.co.in/aamir-apologises-to-his-fans/
If they are still not sure and are only ”looking at” probable release dates, then this film could get pushed to 2013 only!
March 14, 2012 at 7:00 AM
Here is the original article this info came from:
Right now my life revolves around TV show: Aamir
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-interviews/Right-now-my-life-revolves-around-TV-show-Aamir/articleshow/12261589.cms
Yes, this news is extremely disappointing to everyone who wants to see Aamir back on the movie screen with Talaash and Dhoom 3. I also agree that Talaash could easily be postponed to come out in Jan. 2013 especially if it helps avoid 3 big Khan movies from clashing within weeks of each other (and eating into each others profits). So the wait will be between 8-10 months for Talaash which is way too long. This is all unfortunate. I don’t have any interest in the television show. But I wish Aamir all the best.
March 14, 2012 at 11:36 AM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5He6snebTso&feature=player_embedded
Aamir confirms he has read the script of PK and liked it. Also mentions that He will wait for Raju Hirani to make the announcement. So he is indeed doing it
March 14, 2012 at 1:36 PM
Aamir doing D3 is looking less likely…Talaash is certain to release prob in Jan of 2013 now. which means Aamir will be busy with the promotions and such until Jan of 2013. Will D3 be ready for release by Dec of 2013? Will Hirani wait for Aamir until mid to late 2013?
March 14, 2012 at 2:20 PM
Loved this video, the way aamir joked and spoke freely with media.
March 14, 2012 at 1:38 PM
As a fan of his, I have some sort of interest in the TV show..but living in the states, I don’t really watch Indian shows. So thats why I was really looking forward to June 1. But the possibility of 3 Aamir movies in 2 years sounds good…
March 14, 2012 at 2:17 PM
Apparently there were some ‘pilot’ episodes of the tv show
Aamir seemed to be missing time slots, over running segments and getting too involved with the ‘public’
The tv channel and the makers of the serial weren’t happy really
But being aamir, it seems he has taken it as a challenge
This is probably not out in te media much but have been told by anecdotal reports by someone involved in telly
As for delaying talaash–aamir will never admit but has something to do with pahelis better than expected run
Not really bothered if he is not coming this year
My only qualm is that his innings infront of the camera is getting more and more limited
And the camera is not particularly nice to >50 ones
Ps-want to see an aamir-vidya movie wherein th two match their histrionics
But even if there is an offer, the former won’t agree
Ps2- amongst all the worthwhile khans or kumars or kapoors, the only hero never to star with Amitabh is aamir-is it just a coincidence ?
March 14, 2012 at 3:56 PM
‘Paheli’s better than expected run’? You mean Kahaani? I feel that the film has set such a high standard, audience expectation-wise–Talaash is probably getting a re-look, so that it doesn’t fall short.
Just my theory.
March 14, 2012 at 4:04 PM
@Alex
Aamir & Big B were supposed to star in 2-3 different films. But unfortunately all of them either got shelved or never took off at all. I remember watching a Lehren video of the launch of Indra’s Kumar’s film starring Amitabh, Madhuri & Aamir & produced by ABCL. Maybe it was called Rishta? It was shelved I think.
But it’s strange why circumstances have never favoured an Aamir-Big B film! 
Mansoor Khan was supposed to direct a film with Aamir, Big B & Rani called “Happy Diwali”, Aamir had spoken about it in 2002. Even that got shelved when Mansoor Khan gave up filmmaking & took up farming while Aamir took breaks for personal reasons post DCH.
I’d love to see Aamir & Big B in one film!
March 14, 2012 at 3:29 PM
Seems there is talaash for Talaash release. TV and A are not made for each other.
March 14, 2012 at 5:40 PM
“Seems there is talaash for Talaash release.”
” TV and A are not made for each other.”
Haha
Sanjana seems the queen of one liners
March 15, 2012 at 12:40 AM
Let us see. Before he made his debut as an actor, people around him used to wonder how he could be an actor. But he did manage well and is still around. We could wait for 2-3 more months before declaring what A is made for and what not.
March 14, 2012 at 4:04 PM
What a self centred egoist!!!
March 14, 2012 at 4:14 PM
He’s probably trying for an oscar from another angle. Award for documentary, like the Pakistani Oscar winning one.
I wish he would get one and be done with it.
In his efforts for this feather he walks rough shod over people involved with him in films.
Whatever he may say, and the fans, it is Kahani that has jolted him.
March 14, 2012 at 5:25 PM
@oldgold Lol! When did Oscars start giving awards to tv shows? And that too foreign origin ones? Satyameva Jayate is a tv show and by no means a documentary! Don’t make irrational conclusions madam!
March 14, 2012 at 5:48 PM
I see. It’s not a docu?
A small film then?
March 15, 2012 at 12:23 AM
Madam it is a proper full fledged TV shows with different episodes, and will run for 13 weeks or so! It is NOT a documentary or small film! Reportedly there will also be another follow-up chat show after each episode on a news channel (after the episode is shown on all channels of STAR) which will be based on the particular episode of the day. He’s getting STAR to tie up with a major news channel (probably Aaj Tak) and even Doordarshan so that the show reaches maximum people.
It’s a big project and there are reasons why Aamir calls it the most ambitious project of his life! They’ve spent 3 years on research alone! And Satyajit Bhatkal has been developing this idea since 2003 – when he first discussed it with Aamir and Aamir told him to go ahead and they’ll produce it!
March 15, 2012 at 10:21 AM
Hmmm. Seems like a good place to take refuge.
March 14, 2012 at 4:25 PM
Why am I not surprised at this harsh taunt from Aamir’s prime hater–and as expected, how bloody unfair.
Aamir’s film being postponed for his tv show–it is obviously a facade– even aamir fans feel so. Kahaani has raised the bar of audience expectations–and Talaash being in a similar genre–will get a redoing job; some weak bits probably noticed and passed– may get redone–my guess.
If tv show is indeeed the reason–why take six months to release a near ready film like Talaash. My feeling is some re shooting, editing, promoting–all will be done in six months, then film released.
Even Talaash online posters had appeared–bearing legend–releasing june 1, 2012.
i just hope and pray that the postponement is worth it, that Talaash is perfect, a critical and commercial success. Incidentally aamir has taken pains to point out (during mediameet today), that Talaash is a suspense drama, not a thriller.
March 14, 2012 at 4:31 PM
And Aamir has invested more money in Talaash as compared to Excel–who are co-producers with little to lose.
But this postponement is a disturbing thing–will get the film more scrutinized than before.
And where is the documentary angle ? oh, aamir’s tv show? highly doubtful that it may catch oscar eye–and i’m sure aamir knows it.
Oh, but what fun times for aamir haters. Let the bile churn.
Unfortunately, there is so much negativity running through filmi forums.
March 15, 2012 at 12:35 AM
@Oldgold
Why self centred egoist? Both the TV show and film are his own projects! He is co-producing the TV show with STAR and co-producing Talaash with Excel! It’s not like he’s just an actor for Talaash and is keeping Excel on tenterhooks! Both projects are important to him and he has equal responsibilities towards each!
How does ego figure in all this?
A film can be delayed. But a TV show cannot be delayed forever. He’s taking all channels under STAR network for the show and probably tying up with 2 more networks. The show has to be dubbed in 8 different languages. Channels have to overhaul their schedules in a major way to accommodate a new show. So they could not have kept waiting for Aamir forever! It’s not like whenever you get ready, you can get the channel to air your show!
Aamir was willing to come up with the show during IPL, but STAR made it clear that since the show was their biggest property, they could not launch it during IPL. The complete destruction of the show’s sets due to the fire only added to the delays in the show’s completion and launch.
If show was to come after IPL it would have directly clashed with Talaash and Aamir would not have been able to manage both Talaash promotions and TV show, because several parts of his show are supposed to be shot and telecast live as well [such is the format]. Besides it makes no sense to come up with a show on social issues when the star also has a film releasing (and film is far from being based on an issue!).
He’s producing both Talaash and this show and it’s natural that he chose the show over Talaash. He & Ritesh Sidhwani have clarified many times that the decision was mutually agreed upon by all of them (Aamir, Farhan, Ritesh and Reema).
So if they are all okay, then why are ordinary people smelling a rat here?
And are quick to label Aamir selfish or egoist?
He’s already bearing the brunt of both Talaash and TV show delays and knows what challenges increasing delays can pose for him and his projects!
March 15, 2012 at 2:03 AM
@ Prateek. Good reasoned reponse, based on published facts. Looks like postponement is due to various factors including tv show.
These lines from oldgold–absolutely laughable–’ He’s probably trying for an oscar from another angle. Award for documentary, like the Pakistani Oscar winning one.
I wish he would get one and be done with it.
In his efforts for this feather he walks rough shod over people involved with him in films.’
Why do Aamir haters-baiters talk continuously about so called Oscar obsession on part of Aamir ? Aamir has frequently been questioned on this topic, and he has made it clear, even as recently as last year–that he cares about one thing primarily and that is the film; he is not too concerned about sharing screen space and glory as long as the film benefits; commercial Indian awards don’t matter at all in his book and in fact he values the smaller awards like Gollapudi debut director award, far more. Oscar is instrumental in giving a film world-wide recognition–and that is it’s only value in his book.No, he doesn’t come across as somebody trying to get an oscar feather or whatever. He is simply a committed filmmaker with a social conscience and the brfains to make an entertaining commercially viable film.. at least that is what he strives to do, whatever be the result.
We should be lauding and encouraging such people, instead of decrying them in internet forums.
March 14, 2012 at 4:49 PM
Aamir’s b’day-press-fans meet; full video. The man looks and sounds perfectly straight and seedha saadha–not the monster his haters make him out.
http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/more/videos/view/id/1422163
March 14, 2012 at 4:56 PM
I was waiting for you, LS
>The man looks and sounds perfectly straight and seedha saadha
I can’t help it. I sense whatever I say about him. I never take things at face value.
March 15, 2012 at 1:44 AM
@ Oldgold–If you don’t take Aamir at face value–that is your concern. In any case, we none of us accept anything at face value–including the public image of all Bolly ‘kings’, whoever.
I am not a cynic. I think i have enough sense and sensibility to differentiate the genuine from the fake To me, Aamir comes across as a simple soul, with a lot of good in head and heart–but without the wit or the mouth of an SRK who charms his way into fan and media hearts– and SRK has his own quirks–the occasional and wierd use of the word ‘vulgar’ , to give an instance.
I have no major issues with any of these Bolly people, do not run them down at every given opportunity. But, yes, i do have soft corner for one favourite–and i cannot help speak up for him occasionally, when i feel that some unfair remarks need to be countered.
March 15, 2012 at 3:57 AM
”Never take things at face value”
Is it so Oldgold ji? Then what about SRK’s ”jokes”? Do you take them at face value, i.e., as ”jokes” only or do you try to make sense of them and analyse the ”hidden” meanings behind them?
March 15, 2012 at 9:08 AM
You are leading me on, I know.
So what? If my opinion is asked I’ll give it. LOL.
>Then what about SRK’s ”jokes”?
I don’t take them at face value either.
It’s my feeling that’s not really what he is like deep inside.
I’m not really interested in going into detailed analysis of his reasons.
He’s trying to **brazen out** through the situation he is in (less success/insecurity etc etc), and to show he won’t be embarassed because of his failures – very childish, really.
DON’T FORGET, both are actors
One trying to look intellectual and seedha sadhaa, the other *trying* to look ‘Kool’, sexy (but having the wrong idea of what it really is, anything western is deemed cool) , etc because both know that’s their public image which brings/brought them success.
March 14, 2012 at 7:05 PM
Doubt it’s being postponed just because of Aamir’s tv show – doesn’t sound beievable. The movie probably just needs more work.
March 14, 2012 at 11:41 PM
Perfect reply, ha ha!
March 15, 2012 at 12:50 AM
Ok, maybe I was too quick with that answer. I am now wondering whether aamir’s complete involvement in the tv series and the pressure on him from tv channels–whether this has really got a lot to do with the postponement. But postponement by 3 months would ‘ve been the better move. Postponement by six months..does this mean that some Talaash editing, a bit of re-shooting maybe, all still needed, perhaps to come up with a film that can stand comparison with latest flavour of the month–Kahaani. Just my theory—I could be wrong.
March 15, 2012 at 9:12 AM
>The movie probably just needs more work.
…and what’s wrong in saying just *that*, instead of stories about TV shows and what not?
It’s being dishonest. It shows lack of integrity.
March 16, 2012 at 7:43 AM
@Oldgold
Stories about TV show are true & not made up! The film was ready probably because they did announce the June 1 date in posters & teaser & posters were also put up in some theatres across the country. Obviously they couldn’t have put up posters if the film wasn’t ready!
I think it’s just that he wants to focus on TV show. He had no qualms in coming during IPL & thought he’d be able to convince STAR also to launch his show then. But they refused (as reported by India Today). So he couldn’t manage both Talaash promotions & shooting for TV show’s live segments at once. He postponed the film instead.
And here people are thinking he’s using TV as an excuse!
BTW TV is not a “refuge” for him. He’s had a great run as an actor & isn’t struggling to prove his films as “hits”. Needs no “refuge”.
March 16, 2012 at 9:47 PM
ha, that’s a bit harsh – most marketing is not exactly honest, its all about selling your product.
March 14, 2012 at 7:34 PM
Aamirs ‘concern’ for Salman
March 15, 2012 at 12:57 AM
Aamir was specifically asked questions about Salman and Vidya–and he answered. Otherwise he does not need to mention them, express his concern or whatever publicly. He and Salman seem to come across as geninely good friends and neighbours.
Whatever the release date for Talaash–i just hope Aamir doesn’t overpromote it, but just right, quietly maybe. As it is the film has been ijn public consciousness too long before release. Too much publicity results in heightened expectations– and that is not a good thing.
I just hope the postponement is worth it, that the cause is fit for the effect–that the tv show is as good and effective as Aamir would like it to be. As his well wisher and fan, my best wishes for same.
March 15, 2012 at 2:10 AM
Some more info on Aamir’s tv show–http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/Bollywood/Why-Aamir-Khan-delayed-Talaash-release/Article1-825656.aspx
March 15, 2012 at 4:09 AM
Oldgold,
“Self-centred egoist” ????!!! LOL
A “self centred egoist” would have shouted from the rooftops if he/she was confirmed for a director like Raju Hirani’s next film !!
Instead what Aamir in his unique style said in his presser yesterday was ( that too when specifically asked by a reporter if he was doing Hirani’s next ) : ” I would love to work with Hirani again…it is a very good script… However it is best that the director makes the official announcement “.
Can’t really really blame SRK fangirls for getting palpitations at the prospect of Aamir coming out with Talaash, D3 & now Hirani’s next, can we ??
:)
March 15, 2012 at 9:20 AM
I was waiting eagerly for Talaash.
Though Kahani could have been called ‘Talaash’ as well
Hirani’s films, I always wait for.
D3 – nah. Don’t want to see him acting as a cool bad guy. He doesn’t ahve the personality for that, unless he thinks a severe frown will do the job and make him look tough, Gajhani style.
March 16, 2012 at 8:16 AM
@Oldgold
LOL @ Kahani could’ve been titled as Talaash! As if you already know the story of Talaash, eh? Did you co-write it with Reema Kagti & Zoya? Or do you think every suspense film is the same?
March 15, 2012 at 4:15 AM
Haha shubh is bak!!!
Btw aamir says he is not ‘mentally ready’ for dhoom
Feel he is also not ready fOr Kat
He said somewhere ‘jokingly’ that he needs some work to star opposite Kat (like padded shoes for a start)
Joking-I’m a aamir can myself folks
March 15, 2012 at 9:17 AM
I read on twitter- Aamir needs to mentally prepared for Dhoom 3 because it’s very mentally exhausting to act alongside Uday Chopra.
March 15, 2012 at 10:57 AM
Ha Uday chopra maybe the guy with the highest hit rate who is unemployed inspite of that
Have a sense that aamir actually has developed cold feet at dhoom and wants to opt out
By delayiing etc, he wants yashraj to take the painful decision not him ie the decision to replace him!!!
And contrary to popular perception, knowing aamir, the tv show maybe only one of the reasons. He may have realised (late) that his chances of doing distinctly better than hritik in this sort of genre is definitely possible , but not fool proof!!!
Plus he has always had issues starring opposite much talller females
The reason for the likes of rani/priety etc havin a field day was not only due to their undoubted talent
March 16, 2012 at 8:10 AM
@Alex
He’s had issues acting with tall actresses?! LOL! He did work with Sonali Bendre in Sarfarosh & twice with Pooja Bedi in JJWS & Aatank Hi Aatank. Even Juhi Chawla is said to be a bit taller than Aamir. But he did many movies with her. The white actresses in Lagaan & RDB were also taller than him. So what difference did it make to him or the films?! It doesn’t affect at all!
Of all jokes on Aamir, the height one is the most useless & redundant.
Height difference is certainly not an issue bothering him. Everyone knows these things can be adjusted & one can work around them. Salman is also not known to be very tall but he’s worked with much taller actresses like Sushmita & Katrina.
By “mentally prepared” he only meant it’s not his priority yet (due to TV show & Talaash).
Wonder why is everyone so eager to jump to conclusions & think YRF will replace him! LOL! Seems like they secretly hope for their favorite hero to be taken in a plum project like D3!
March 15, 2012 at 6:09 AM
Alex,
Am back indeed !
March 18, 2012 at 5:26 PM
Here’s another article which proves that Aamir indeed postponed all other projects only due to his TV show. Apparently, he’s now even asked brands he endorses to NOT to buy any ad slots for his show, as he doesn’t want to show any ads featuring him & dilute the seriousness & message of the show which is based on social issues! Such is his credibility & commitment towards his show and its message! – http://www.boxofficeindia.co.in/more-on-aamir-khan/
And as previous reports have suggested, some parts of his show are supposed to be live. He obviously couldn’t have brought the show & film around same time! He couldn’t have found time to shoot the live segments of his show in midst of Talaash promotions plus it would have seemed he’s using social causes on TV to get attention or publicity for his film!
It’s indeed only the fire incident which delayed his show & that in turn caused postponement of Talaash release.
March 20, 2012 at 5:55 AM
One can write volumes and postulate infinite theories but to naked eye and seeing the pattern n time, It’s KAHAANI Affect…. Aamir fans are also now behaving like Bachchan, Srk and Akki fans… Defend Defend and Defend just for the heck of it. and now read this news Source @Zoom Tv :
@ZoomTV Aamir wants to re-shoot the climax of ‘Talaash’ as it is similar to Vidya’s ‘Kahaani’….
March 20, 2012 at 12:04 PM
@Bliss
You believe Zoom TV? Well they had also ”reported” that YRF’s next with SRK is a remake of Daag! – http://twitter.com/#!/ZoomTV/status/164703883090862081
And what ”Kahani effect”? You’re saying as if you know the story! LOL!
And let me tell you frankly, any Khan film will do better than a Vidya Balan film no matter how similar or strong or weak it is, in terms of content! Okay? Khans’ films work on their names alone. They are at such a position that it’s others who fear them. They don’t need to fear anyone! And you’re trying to imply he got afraid of Kahani!
Even the Khans’ underperformers make more money, draw more eyeballs than a Vidya Balan hit!
Media is making up rumours simply because the film’s delay has given them opportunity to do so. [Earlier they had compared it to Agent Vinod!!
]
The climax of Talaash is an elaborate underwater sequence with a possible supernatural element in it. Tell me if these things were there in Kahani! Ha!
It was shot last year itself in London. And every report had mentioned how brilliant it had turned out to be. Why would they re-shoot it if they were totally satisfied with it?!
It’s clear – Aamir felt he’d be able to manage the TV show with films but he could not (especially due to accidents which led to delay of his show). So now the film has been delayed!
March 20, 2012 at 1:37 PM
@prateek
Neither do you know the story
and what I said was not definitive but seeing the pattern and timing… and I don’t care about BO but about the substance… Khans sells doesn’t mean its always the best…
You seem to forget the one Operative word that is “Search” in both movies…
March 20, 2012 at 5:49 PM
LOL! Dear Bliss, every suspense film involves some kind of “search”! Does it mean all of them are same?! Hahaha! Not a sufficient reasoning to call two films similar.
It’s only due to timing of further delay which has led people to deduce Talaash got postponed due to Kahani! Vidya Balan’s PR milking it to get more publicity for Kahani & implying she scared off a Khan!
I do not know the story of Talaash. But I do know of various elements in that film which are there in it but not in Kahani. Hence I commented.
Aamir is too caught up with his show right now. No time to look at Talaash or re-shoot it till he’s done with that show.
The shooting of Talaash got over last year in October-November.
Aamir & Ritesh made it clear that they were postponing it so that they have ample time for its marketing (which they couldn’t have got due to clash with his TV show).
Personally I also think Aamir might have delayed Talaash so that his show gets due attention. It’s his debut as a TV producer & host. He must’ve felt those who are too eager to see him should satisfy themselves with the show! (He did say in his press conference on his birthday, that those who’ve been eagerly waiting & missing him onscreen have the show to look forward to)
He’s made a mark in films already. But is totally new to TV. So seems extra conscious for the show, wants to focus more on it & ensure it doesn’t get overshadowed by his films & gets due attention!
March 20, 2012 at 5:58 PM
I believe Kahaani poured cold water over Amir’s aspirations of being hatke. So now he’ll make changes to remove any remote similarity between the two.
He’s lucky that he can hold everyone to ransom while it is done.
Vidya has already stolen a march over him with this genre.
Of course his film will collect 3 even 4 times what Kahaani will collect even without the changes, but his ego is much much larger than him
March 20, 2012 at 6:57 PM
I don’t know the reasons behind this change of date nor do I care enough to speculate baselessly about them- but I don’t think that it is right to dismiss Vidya so easily. Obviously she is nothing compared to Aamir in terms of box office draw. But Aamir has always been concerned about the ‘prestige’ of his projects- and in this sense Vidya and Kahaani are very much a valid concern for him.
Kahaani is one of the most critically acclaimed Hindi films to be released in the past few years- both in terms of the word of mouth and the critic’s reviews- and Vidya’s ‘prestige’ level is currently very high- in fact several people have christened her the ‘female Aamir’- whether this is warranted or not is a different argument- but the point is that this is a comparison that is happening quite often these days .
I’m not saying that Aamir did decide to reshoot the climax scene of Talaash out of insecurity- I find that highly improbable- but let’s not pretend that he is some untouchable god who can never be bothered by what mere mortals like Vidya are up to. Vidya has been delivering critical success after success and it reeks of arrogance for his fans to be so condescending towards her- and ridicule the idea that a Khan will ever be affected by a Kahaani.
March 20, 2012 at 7:19 PM
I think the claim is somewhat laughable to be kind and pathetic to be honest. I think from what we have seen so far, they are different story lines.
Yes,Kahaani is a hit and Vidya’s recent run is laudable. As for some in media calling VB a female Aamir, thats what media does.
Mithun/Anil and a dozen others were called the next AB. To take that tag seriously or read anything into it is pointless. Of course
SRK fans are going to twist this story every which way possible and that is expected since they dont have anything better to do and they ned fodder to stoke their insecurity.
I dont think any Khan is invincible and if any female could challenge them, it is either katrina with her BO run and Vidya with her recent successes,assuming she continues to deliver in a similar vein. As of now, she is not a patch on Aamir. A small role in a decent film that made 35 crores ( NKJ), a stellar role in a big success which scored because of the titillation mainly and another 45-50 crore success in a fairly decent film with a good performance – looks good on any actors resume but doesnt make them a threat or a successor to Aamir.
March 20, 2012 at 7:36 PM
I’m not making any claims that Vidya is a succesor or a threat to Aamir. She’s very obviously not- not yet anyway. But it’s pretty apparent that Kahaani has caused a stir and that when Talaash releases the two will be compared because of their similarities in genre and feel.
Talaash will definitely make more than Kahaani- most probably it will overtake Kahaani’s total in its first weekend itself. But thrillers are not Hindi cinema’s forte and Kahaani is easily one of the best that I’ve seen from contemporary Bollywood and also Balan’s best performance- there is a very good chance that Talaash- even with all its superior star power- will not be as enjoyable or positively received. And given Aamir’s obsession with the prestige of his projects I do not think that it is unreasonable to assume that Kahaani has influenced some decisions he has taken with regard to Talaash.
I’m not saying that Kahaani is the reason that Talaash is being postponed for sure- but I do not think that it fair to dismiss these claims as pathetic or laughable either.
March 20, 2012 at 8:16 PM
Considering your prestige argument Ami, are you trying to imply that a film made by Aamir Khan Productions & Excel, with team like Anurag Kashyap, Farhan Akhtar, Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti, Javed Akhtar will have less quality?
Talaash does not just have star value! It has several other talented names working on it! You’re trying to say these guys got afraid of Kahani? Or got inferiority complex & self doubts seeing that film or its reception?
Come on!
Their film may or may not be as good as Kahani. But they have no reason to get afraid of it!
Also there was a 3 month gap between Talaash & Kahani! It’s not like they were releasing around same time!
@Oldgold
He’s not holding anyone to ransom. Both Talaash & TV show are his own productions. As a producer he has every right to decide which project will come first and
which one later.
As I said, fans of other stars are having a field day linking Talaash delay to either Rowdy Rathore, Agent Vinod, Housefull & now Kahani! If it gets delayed further still, then you guys will say he got afraid of Dabangg 2 & YRF romantic film! Keep up the tamasha!
March 20, 2012 at 6:06 PM
^^A telling, priceless cumment there oldgold
hahaha
Dont know how much of this factor is involved, but one cant totally discount this
March 20, 2012 at 7:55 PM
Well if there was pressure to be “hatke” then he would not have postponed Talaash to June 1! He was well aware of the films releasing in 2012. He’d have stuck to the 26th January date only to be the “first one” to come with a “different” film (this genre).
It’s not just Aamir Khan. Lot of other stalwarts involved in making of Talaash – Farhan, Zoya, Javed Akhtar, Anurag Kashyap, Reema etc. I don’t think they can be doubted for coming up with quality content. So this notion of them being “baffled” by Kahani or its acclaim is useless & comical!
Aamir gets done with his show only around August end.
Can anyone tell me how will they re-shoot the entire film or major scenes, overhaul its story in just 2-3 months & release it by November – all so soon?
It’s just fans of other stars who’re jumping to make up all sorts of reasons to imply Aamir got afraid & postponed Talaash! And of course, PR teams of other stars who’re milking Talaash delay to promote/hype up their films!
I won’t be surprised if people wrote in May that Talaash was postponed due to “fear” of Akshay Kumar’s Rowdy Rathore! LOL!
It’s only that TV show for which he’s postponing the film. He & entire Talaash team confirmed it themselves. But still people have to make their own special theories! Carry on!
@Ami
Khans are not invincible. All I am saying is that the notion being spread by media that an Aamir Khan got afraid of a Vidya Balan is rubbish! Any of 3 Khans’ film will do better than Vidya ji’s biggest hit. So media & some sections trying to imply that a Khan “fled” because of her is laughable!
As an actress Vidya has achieved a lot. But it doesn’t mean she is comparable to heroes or a “threat” for them. She’s also been going overboard with her comments on Khans – how she doesn’t need any Khan or how Khans should add Balan to their names! Ha! Good that she’s made a mark. But it’s going way overboard if she compares herself to Khans or her PR tries to imply that Khans are affected by her films.
She keeps saying she does not need Khans but keeps using their names for publicity & show of “power”. Hypocritical to say the least.
March 20, 2012 at 8:06 PM
I haven’t read all of your comment, just the beginning as I’m in a hurry.
NOBODY knew that kahaani was a thriller. It came as a surprise to everyone so your first para doesn’t do the defence of ‘Talaash’ any good
March 20, 2012 at 8:23 PM
LOL @ Oldgold!
Nobody “in the general public” knew that Kahani was a thriller. Aamir & co. are very much a part of the industry. And as industry guys they do know which other films are being made.
I hope you get it more clearly now.
March 20, 2012 at 8:32 PM
No, I don’t think so.
Don’t start with the film fraternity business. Even Amir doesn’t tell anyone about his films.
Knowing ‘of’ a film is not the same as knowing ‘about’ a film.
March 20, 2012 at 10:53 PM
@Oldgold
”Knowing ‘of’ a film is not the same as knowing ‘about’ a film.”
Agreed madam.
But if it applies to Aamir Khan and industry people, then it applies even more to ordinary people like us!
So no use jumping to conclusions and saying Talaash is similar to Kahani or inferior to it, without even knowing concrete stuff about it or watching the film!
March 20, 2012 at 8:16 PM
“She keeps saying she does not need Khans but keeps using their names for publicity & show of “power”. Hypocritical to say the least.”
Its not hypocritical. She keeps getting asked questions about starring with the Khans. As an actress who’s trying to carve the path for solo heroines in Bollywood its obvious frustrating for her when people keep trying to measure her success by whether she’s starring with a Khan or not- especially because she is not glamour heroine material.
She is not putting down the Khans at all. She’s always said that she is a huge SRK fan and that Aamir is an inspiration. Is it a crime for an actress to say that she can do without the most powerful men in the industry and stand on her two feet? I actually find it refreshing that she doesn’t act like being Khan arm candy is the pinnacle of success.
“Any of 3 Khans’ film will do better than Vidya ji’s biggest hit.”
Obviously Talaash will make 3-5 times as much as Kahaani. There is no question of Kahaani being a threat to Talaash at the box office- this is absurd because Kahaani will be out of of the theatres long before June.
But in terms of prestige there is a chance that Kahaani might outstrip Talaash. Talaash does have a great team behind it- but Kahaani is one of the most enoyable Bollywood thrillers I’ve seen- thrillers are not Hindi cinema’s forte and even with a team like Aamir, Reema and Zoya -Farhan/ Anurag only did the dialogues so they do not count- there is a chance that Kahaani could win in terms of content and novelty.
BTW- I really like both Aamir and Vidya and I’m really looking forward to Talaash – it looks very good. I’m not trying to put Aamir down- but I do not see the reason to put Vidya down either.
March 20, 2012 at 8:27 PM
@amy- completely agree with u that in terms of prestige kahaani has a fair chance of outstripping talaash(a well-made point here). but as far as kahaani being a possible reason for aamir postponing talaash- i find this statement both baffling and baseless. firstly, i think aamir is one guy who is hardly paranoid/wary abt other project(he always believes that if a film is good it eill succeed, him released ‘TZP’ with ‘welcome’ when akshay was in the middle of a golden_run, is a testament to the above point).
March 20, 2012 at 9:31 PM
@Saurabh
Agree with you completely. There had been several patriotic films and films on Bhagat Singh prior to RDB. Even Aamir’s own underperformer MP had been there just some 6-7 months prior to RDB. If he were so afraid and conscious, then why would he come up with RDB (after himself giving an underperformer in genre of patriotic films!)?
If he were afraid of comparisons at ”SLIGHTEST SIMILARITY” with other films, then why would he have picked up a TZP when industry had already seen award winning films like Iqbal & Black about relationship & journey of a mentor/teacher with his student who was suffering from some disability?
The argument that Aamir got afraid either in terms of quality or box office comparisons and that’s the MAIN reason for postponement of Talaash is hollow! Given the man’s own past career moves & existence of an actual valid reason (his TV show which he’s producing & hosting).
March 20, 2012 at 9:23 PM
Look, it’s no crime for her to be successful on her own. It’s her going to the extent of saying that ”Khans should add Balan to their names” which is OTT. I hope she remembers where she was when Khans were breaking records at box office or their films were getting nominated at Oscars and BAFTAs.
It’s one thing to reply to reporters’ questions. But it’s altogether different when you say they should add your surname to their name!
I agree that Talaash having a great team behind it DOES NOT mean that it would be a quality film or as great as the names behind it. But then, it’s also not necessary to assume that it would be DECIDEDLY inferior to Kahani! That too, without anyone actually knowing confirmed things about its story!
I am pointing out the absurdity of rumours & ”theories” being pedalled by certain sections of media and over-zealous fans & PR of some stars (including VB’s). That Talaash is all same as Kahani or Aamir or entire team got afraid of Kahani!
Why and most importantly, HOW will they overhaul the entire story of Talaash now? In such a short time? And how come people have concluded that climax of Talaash is similar to Kahani? So much so that Aamir is ”reportedly” re-shooting or changing it? Ha!
He will be done with his TV show only around mid or end of August. If people care to use their brains, then I’d like to know their opinion, how he will he re-shoot the climax, overhaul story as per changed climax and get it ready for release in just 2-3 months?
Any suspense film has to involve a ”search”. It does not mean all suspense films are the same! And so far, we’ve read about underwater sequences, possible extra-marital affair, death of a child, a film star’s murder, supernatural elements and psychological stuff in Talaash. I don’t think they are enough to imply or conclude similarity to Kahani!
This absurdity is what I am pointing at. And of course, the Kahani PR trying to cash on delay of Talaash to get more hype for their film.
March 20, 2012 at 9:35 PM
I agree that the rumours of the Talaash reshoot do sound improbable. I wasn’t suggesting that the rumors were true- I was objecting to the condescending attitude towards Vidya.
I don’t see what is wrong with Vidya saying that the Khans should add Balan to their name. Its not like she went about giving such statements unprovoked. This is from an article featured in CNN IBN:
“On being asked whether she is the new female Khan in the industry, Vidya chuckled, “Well, the Khans can now add Balan at the end of their names, instead of me adding Khan to my name.”
The media ASKED her if she was going to add Khan to her name because she had a blockbuster – and she REPLIED to this question JOKINGLY to assert the fact that she had an identity of her own.
The Khans have all said much, much, much more presumptuous things about their own star power. But of course when a man says something its confidence and when a woman says it, it is arrogance. Vidya has said time and again that she is very appreciative of the Khans and she has never belittled them. It is absurd to object to such a harmless statement that she made just because she is woman who dares to not worship the ground that the Khans walk on.
March 20, 2012 at 10:06 PM
@Ami
No one expects VB to kiss the ground on which the Khans walk. It’s not just her comments. But I raised possibility of her fans and PR using Khans to hype her – by either implying they got affected by her film or its success or by saying they are not needed etc.
One cannot discount the fact that Kahani/VB PR is also milking the delay of Talaash to hype their film further and even going to the extent of saying that climax of Talaash was same as their film and that their film had given goosebumps to Talaash team so much so that they have to reshoot it now!
March 20, 2012 at 10:10 PM
@Ami
BTW, there’s no need to bring gender issues in every discussion. She can trash the Khans if she has achieved equal success. There is a world of difference in achieving great success on your own or in your own right and trumping someone else at their own game! A Marie Curie can try to put herself in same league as an Einstein, but not a female IIT topper – just to offer an analogy.
March 20, 2012 at 10:13 PM
The Indian media likes to sensationalize things for no reason. I don’t see why you would jump to the conclusion that Vidya/ Kahaani’s PR team fed the media these theories . Its more likely that some journalist was having a slow news day- heard that Talaash was postponed soon after Kahaani released- put two and two together and started these rumours.
In any case the tabloids cannot go two days without having some rivalry rumours about the Khans. There were also rumours that Aamir was shifting his dates to sabotage SRK’s film. Are you going to suggest that SRK’s PR started these rumours? That every star’s PR is conspiring to use Aamir’s name to sell their films?
It seems really unreasonable to me to automatically assume the worst of Vidya just because you are an Aamir fan and the extremely unprofessional, unreliable media has concocted some rumours involving both of them.
March 20, 2012 at 10:16 PM
“She can trash the Khans if she has achieved equal success.”
But WHEN did she trash the Khans???
March 20, 2012 at 10:20 PM
And BTW – it was not Vidya’s PR but Anurag Kashyap would introduced the Aamir-Vidya comparison- and the Indian media probably ran away with it and decided that Talaash was being postponed for Kahaani. Are you suggesting that Anurag is on Vidya’s payroll? I think that she is unnecessarily being made the ‘villain’ or opportunist here.
March 20, 2012 at 10:22 PM
@Ami
I totally agree that media makes up useless news about every star. I pointed at VB because she’s been going on and on about the Khans and her PR has been going on and on calling her some hero etc.
I don’t say every star is using Aamir Khan’s name. Frankly speaking, there is more possibility of less big stars or recently successful/unsuccessful stars using Talaash delay to their advantage than an SRK or Salman or Aamir using each other’s films’ name to hype or sell their film. Hence I pointed at Vidya Balan whose PR has been in an overdrive since TDP days.
March 20, 2012 at 10:28 PM
@Ami
Look, Anurag called VB ”female Aamir Khan”.That comment by Anurag nowhere implies similarity of Talaash and Kahani so your point that he compared them and media compared Kahani to Talaash due to that comment does not sound convincing!
I never said she ”trashed” the Khans! I am saying it’s her fans and PR that’s been after the Khans to prop her up! And she herself has also commented on them, even if jokingly or on prodding by media.
March 20, 2012 at 10:52 PM
“That comment by Anurag nowhere implies similarity of Talaash and Kahani so your point that he compared them and media compared Kahani to Talaash due to that comment does not sound convincing!”
He compared Vidya to Aamir. This is all the stimulus that the sensationalist Indian media needs to do this:
“Its more likely that some journalist was having a slow news day- heard that Talaash was postponed soon after Kahaani released- put two and two together and started these rumours.”
So I think my point is quite clear. Anurag did not try to compare the films -but by comparing the two stars- he gave the media ideas for their new rumour comparing the two films. Surely this is not so difficult to understand.
“I am saying it’s her fans and PR that’s been after the Khans to prop her up!”
Obviously if you make wild and baseless assumptions about her PR then you will reach these conclusion that they are targeting Aamir to prop her up. There have been a million conspiracy theories circulating about why Aamir postponed Talaash. If the media can make up rumours about him wanting to sabotage SRK, not being satisfied with the film and so on- why shouldn’t they have made up the Kahaani rumour as well? The same thing happened with ZNMD last year – there were rumours that it didn’t want to come soon after Ready, that Zoya fought with all the editors, that it was a copy of The Hangover. Its obvious when such an awaited film is postponed multiple times that the media will come up with some silly rumours to account for it- and this time circumstances are such that Kahaani gets dragged into these rumours.
Two suspense thrillers- one postponed just after the other is released- both stars being compared by a newsworthy filmmaker- it isn’t difficult to see what inspired these rumours- I don’t see why Vidya’s PR needs to have had a hand in this.
March 20, 2012 at 11:13 PM
@Ami
Anurag’s comment has nothing to do with media comparing Kahani to Talaash. This rumour was first started by some guy called ”cilemasnob” on Twitter (who’s been forever after Talaash, first calling it a rehash of KCK and now saying Kahani caused postponement of Talaash!).
I know media makes lot of theories and fans of stars take it to another new level altogether whenever a big film is postponed. It happened to Ra One last year when it was postponed from June to October and just on basis of that train sequence media started saying that SRK is re-shooting it or postponing it to due fear of comparisons and similarities with Shankar’s Robot!
I am pointing fingers at VB’s PR because everyone knows her PR has indeed been in an overdrive since TDP days, she’s commented on Khans in past herself and despite team of Talaash giving clarifications, media is still going to extent of saying that Talaash is similar to Kahani and needs an overhaul/re-shooting to avoid comparisons! And since Kahani is running at the box office as of now, this milking of Talaash delay is only likely to help hype and promote it further TO PROMOTE the agenda of her PR to prove her as the ”hero”. Unlike other films which are not releasing yet (SRK-YRF film, SOS, Dabangg 2 etc.).
Of course, my comments on VB’s PR are as much based on assumptions as comments of others (media included) on Talaash being ”scared off” by or being similar to Kahani.
It’s also possible that media is mischievously trying to shift focus on other stars and their films & diverting attention from actual cause of Talaash delay, aka, Aamir’s TV show!
And Ami, as much as you try to defend Vidya, take it from me in writing that her PR will compare her to Kareena and yak again about her ”power” in coming days, whether Agent Vinod succeeds or not! [If it succeeds they’ll say Bebo needs a Khan and needs to play a bimbo to get hits while VB can get hits without Khans and if AV fails they’ll trash Bebo even more in comparison to VB!). And her PR will be in overdrive even around the release of Heroine, comparing Bebo’s heroine oriented film’s fate to her heroine oriented film’s date!
March 20, 2012 at 11:15 PM
Correction – I meant fate not date.
March 20, 2012 at 8:26 PM
“Considering your prestige argument Ami, are you trying to imply that a film made by Aamir Khan Productions & Excel, with team like Anurag Kashyap, Farhan Akhtar, Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti, Javed Akhtar will have less quality?”
Thrillers are not Bollywood’s forte- Don 2 which was also a thriller with the Excel-Farhan team was far less effective than Kahaani. Reema and Zoya are both decently good filmmakers but I have no idea how adept they will be at writing and directing a thriller- from what I can see they’re strongest depicting human relationships and internal conflicts onscreen. Anurag has only shared dialogue credits with Farhan – doubt his influence on the film will be very much.
Again- I like the teaser and I want this film to be good. I like Aamir, Rani and Kareena. But I do not think that this team is any guarantee that the film will definitely be superior to Kahaani in terms of quality- and that could be bothering Aamir. Its unlikely for sure- but I don’t think that it is as pathetic/laughable/ comical as you’re making it out to be.
March 20, 2012 at 9:39 PM
@Ami
”Thrillers are not Bollywood’s forte-”
Aamir knew that fact already before signing the film. He must have handled the film well aware of this fact.
And as far as capability or past records of Zoya or Reema or Farhan are concerned, I think it’s useless to attribute such things to delay of Aamir’s film! He’s had entire history of making good films with failed or totally new directors! We all know records of Abhinay Deo or Ashutosh Gowariker before DB and Lagaan. And of John Matthew Matthan both before and after Sarfarosh!
I agree that a good team is no guarantee of Talaash being great, but even Sujoy Ghosh has only surprised audiences with Kahani! No one expected him to make a good film!
Whatever Zoya or Reema are, they have better reputation than what Sujoy had before Kahani.
And AK has past record of making good products with unexpected filmmakers/writers.
There’s no guarantee of Talaash being great, BUT there is also NO guarantee of it being definitely inferior as you’re constantly trying to imply!
March 20, 2012 at 9:51 PM
“BUT there is also NO guarantee of it being definitely inferior as you’re constantly trying to imply!”
I am NOT trying to imply any such thing. If you look at my earlier comments on this thread you’ll see that I loved the teaser- and I even defended the commercial potential of this film. I also said that it is highly improbable that Talaash is being postponed due to Kahaani. I’m largely in agreement with what you are saying – my only objection is that you should not dismiss Kahaani because there is a CHANCE that it could beat Talaash in the prestige stakes.
“Whatever Zoya or Reema are, they have better reputation than what Sujoy had before Kahani.”
Yes but the point is that Sujoy surprised everybody and proved them wrong – Reema and Zoya are yet to prove themselves as makers of effective thrillers. And prestige is not just about content but also novelty- Kahaani being a superbly atmospheric female-centric thriller with a pregnant heroine set in Kolkata and the first of its genre this year scores over Talaash which has a Policeman hero inhabiting the much seen Mumbai underbelly milieu and comes after another suspense thriller. None of this means that Kahaani will be a better film than Talaash for sure- but its not entirely out of question either.
BTW- I am really looking forward to this film- I want it to be good and I want it to succeed and I have higher expectations from it than I did from Kahaani. And if two female filmmakers can be recognized for having crafted an excellent thriller – that will also be a great thing. Again- I’m not trying to put Talaash or its team down- I’m merely pointing out that there is no need to completely dismiss Kahaani on terms of commercial appeal alone because it COULD trump Talaash in terms of prestige.
March 20, 2012 at 10:02 PM
@Ami
Zoya & Reema could surprise too. There is no need to dismiss them even without seeing their film. They can be trashed later if the film is indeed not upto the mark.
”Novelty”? So? Should the Talaash team scrape it altogether and never release it? Now that they’ve lost the novelty factor?
Or will delaying it by 2-3 more months suddenly make it more novel and avoid any comparison with Kahani or any other cop film or thriller?
I don’t think so. Then why attribute Kahani as MAIN reason for delay of Talaash?
March 20, 2012 at 10:32 PM
“Zoya & Reema could surprise too. There is no need to dismiss them even without seeing their film. ”
I am not dismissing them! I am looking forward to the film!
I hope it is better than Kahaani. The whole point of Kahaani was that it was a lovely surprise since a small film coming from Sujoy Ghosh. But from a film starring three talented star actors with a team comprising Aamir, Reema, Zoya and Farhan you obviously expect more.
All I’m saying is that Bollywood thrillers are hardly ever good- so even such a team is not a guarantee of a good product. But I’m not dismissing the film in the least- it is my most awaited Hindi film this year- and I want to see Reema get the kind of recognition than Zoya got for ZNMD last year and for Rani to make a comeback. Its also very rare to see a Hindi film involving big stars being made with sincerity- which is why I am always keen for Aamir films to succeed.
March 20, 2012 at 10:48 PM
@Ami
It’s not just about you, or your comments but general nature of comments being doled out by fans of some stars and media.
Of course Talaash carries a huge burden of expectations on its shoulders. It never had the advantage of low or no expectations like Kahani (which is one of the reasons for its over-celebration so much so to imply that a Khan film got scared of it!
).
All I’m saying its too early to dismiss Talaash or imply that its whole story has to be overhauled or something all due to Kahani when there’s clear evidence that there are other projects to which Aamir Khan wishes to pay more attention to.
I think he’s way more nervous about his TV show than any of his films!
Totally new terrain for him (particularly because he’s producing it as well). Attributing his nervousness to Kahani or other films was like trying to hard to put him down or prop up everyone else in comparison to him. So I commented.
He has actually more to lose by delaying Talaash than he had to, if it released on June 1. If Talaash releases in November-December, it has additional pressure and competition both in terms of quality and box office. And say, let’s suppose it gets ”still” postponed to 2013 then it’s a gone case as it will have to deal with benchmarks of more stars’ films at BO and quality, more expectations and scrutiny due to bigtime delays and many people might have less interest in it.
All in all, it’s not a very prudent or safe decision by Aamir to have announced release dates and delaying film repeatedly. He should’ve kept quiet about it if he weren’t sure to release or focus on it. Or maybe he should just have done the TV show and not taken up film at all (and vice versa) if he could not manage both.
Hope it does well whenever ”scaredy cat” Aamir decides to release it!
March 20, 2012 at 10:56 PM
“Hope it does well whenever ”scaredy cat” Aamir decides to release it”
I hope so too
I actually commented on another thread that it was great to see films like Paan Singh Tomar and Kahaani do well while films like Jodi Breakers and Players failed- and that I hope that Talaash does better than Housefull. 
March 20, 2012 at 11:18 PM
@Ami
Hehe! More than doing better than Housefull, hope it manages to at least somehow equal the toenail of Kahani – the greatest suspense film ever made in India!
March 20, 2012 at 8:35 PM
secondly, i believe that thought both kahani and suspense thrillers, yet one can easily make out that both r as different as chalk and cheese. on don2, i found it a horrible film, it was a rare action thriller without having any ‘thrills’.(only film of excel which i have disliked till now). by the way, as u seem to be a fan of susp. thrillers, how did u find ‘karthik calling karthik’?(i liked the film apart from the culmination, found farhan’s acting effective)
March 20, 2012 at 8:55 PM
I liked Karthik Calling Karthik mostly for Farhan’s fine performance and his chemistry with Deepika- also enjoyed the elegantly minimalistic atmosphere of the film- but it had far too many loopholes for me to take it seriously as a suspense thriller.
This is one genre that Bollywood is really terrible at. One of the reasons why I’m a little nervous about the quality of Talaash is that I found all of Excel’s previous attempts at suspense/ thriller/ mystery movies to be subpar- KCK, Don 2 and Game- although KCK is easily the best of these three.
I hope that Talaash is much better than all of these. And with the cast and crew behind the film – it will be disappointing if its not more fun than Kahaani as well- what worked in Kahaani’s favour were the minimal expectations- it being a Sujoy Ghosh film. With Talaash its the opposite.
BTW- the best suspense thriller I’ve seen lately is Martha Marcy May Marlene- have you watched it?
March 20, 2012 at 9:55 PM
nope, haven’t heard of ‘martha marcy.’ a thriller i recently liked was ‘the girl with a dragon tattoo.’ thoroughly enjoyed ‘the constant gardener’(both ralph fiennes and rachel weisz were fantastic).’ also liked the german spy-thriller ‘the lives of others’(won foreign movie oscar that year). regarding thrillers made by ‘excel’, apart from kck, i am one of the few who liked ‘game’(more than the central suspense itself,i liked the way the entire mystery unfolded.also admired the slick ‘look’ of game)
March 20, 2012 at 8:51 PM
NOw cmon guys
Comparing the probable box office of talaash to kahaani is an illogical thought
forget that–
comparing aamirs own ghajini to TZP is out of context
It suffices to say that VB has achieved a rare feat here
Being compared to aamirs film and being ‘alleged’ to have changed aamirs plans itself shows the ‘impact’
Knowing aamir-this may not be the only/main reason but HAS played on his mind
Also feel that the current bullrun by salman, hritik in ap has made him rethink , if not unnerved him
He knows his numbers will be compared to some really big ones and he doenst now be beaten
and dont think this ‘caution’ is a bad thing
thats what separates him from people like abhishrek who and others who despite all connections/genes/good offices/even ‘talent’ went with the flow
Its damn easy to go with the flow
Its this ‘holding back’
realising the damaging potential of even a small ‘kahani’ which has made aamir what he is today
Nothing to feel defensive/ wrong about this ‘caution’ from aamir
March 20, 2012 at 10:15 PM
@Alex
”VB has achieved a rare feat here
Being compared to aamirs film and being ‘alleged’ to have changed aamirs plans itself shows the ‘impact’”
Impact or clever PR? In May people will come up with ”reports” and ”allegations” that Talaash was postponed due to Rowdy Rathore or Shanghai – would it ”show impact” of Akshay Kumar and Emran Hashmi?
More than impact of other films on Talaash, it shows impact of Aamir Khan & his film – whose delay is being used & milked by other stars and their films to hype themselves and show their power! [They ''scared off'''Aamir Khan!]
March 20, 2012 at 9:35 PM
Amy-cmon lemme take u for some ‘lessons’ as well
minor/prateek–u r fighting a losing cause here, mates lol
‘Woman power” has risen in the form of vidya balan
Suggest we dont question it–suggest we jus applaud it and give credit where due..
when was a movie like kahani with NO known actor (besides the actress), ultralow budget, non gimmicky theme, no item nos and a director with a hat trick of flops (no, disasters) be accepted like this
in this scenario, numbers becum relatively immaterial
as a said earlier-’the public has spoken”
and aamir is bright enuf to sense that no actor(including himself) is bigger than the paying public. Its this close reading/rapport with his audience is what sets him apart.
Legends are created when they acknowledge even the “smaller” one.
ditto for bachchan
March 20, 2012 at 9:55 PM
@Alex
I am not discounting VB’s achievements. I’ve clarified many times that I am only pointing out absurd stuff like he got ”afraid” of her!
When it’s clearly visible that he’s busy with his TV show which is to come around same time – June and he’s producing both TV show and Talaash, then what’s this yakking about him ”re-shooting” Talaash as it is ”similar” to Kahani? Or being afraid of his own film’s reception compared to Kahani?! [When there's no clear evidence that both films have ''similar'' story or climax! And clearly evident that Aamir himself has no time to re-shoot or overhaul his film's story?]
More than Salman or Hrithik, he has his own past benchmarks (3I) too! I don’t discount the fact that his own previous benchmarks and success of rivals must be an influencer in his decisions.
But then if he were so damn worried about box office ONLY, then why would he have signed a dicey film like Talaash over more sureshot box office friendly films?
Paying public has spoken for Kahani. So what? The same paying public has spoken several times for years for an Aamir Khan film too. It has more faith in him & associates him more with quality than anybody else. He has no reason to be afraid of Sujoy Ghosh or Vidya Balan!
If at all, he’s under pressure then it’s pressure of his past benchmarks and this association/expectation of quality with anything he does – films AND TV show included.
His TV show is a new territory for him & his production house. And STAR didn’t let him postpone it further. So he decided to focus on it and postpone Talaash.
With his TV show around the corner, it was always a given that it would affect his films in some way or the other. Whether a Kahani released & succeeded or not. There was every possibility of Talaash being put on backburner due to that show he’s obsessed with. Kahani coming & Talaash being delayed are mere coincidence. It would have been delayed even if there was no Kahani (especially when this news came that the show had got affected due to fire & STAR was not keen on airing it around IPL).
March 22, 2012 at 1:14 AM
Alex,Aamir is a alegend?
March 22, 2012 at 8:57 AM
Re:,Aamir is a alegend?
Defintely.
May be not as big as Akki. But the, who is?
March 21, 2012 at 2:52 AM
prateek-u have rightly said had amir been so scared,he wouldn’t have taken up a dicey talash.lot of people r saying the cause of talash’s delay is that aamir is worried that if,released on the earlier date,his film may be ‘critically compared’ to kahaani as it has just received acclaim and would be fresh in cinegoer’s mind.so i ask- since kahaani has been liked greatly,how can it vanish from people’s minds by the time talaash comes,just in 4-5 months?would talaash not be compared to kahaani at all, later?
March 21, 2012 at 12:04 PM
Director Reema Kagti speaks out! Dispels all rumours about Talaash & its delay, confirms there is no re-shooting being done & absolutely no similarities with Kahaani & that it was indeed their mutual decision to postpone Talaash to avoid clash with Aamir’s TV show.
All here, straight from THE actual person behind the film – http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/Bollywood/Talaash-not-similar-to-Kahaani-Reema-Kagti/Article1-828819.aspx
Guess now overactive PR of some stars & eager-to-trash-Aamir types have egg on their face!
Wait for the actual film’s release to bash it, haters!
March 21, 2012 at 12:15 PM
And what did you expect Reema Katgi to say?? Did you Really expect a confirmation of the truth?
Of course the film will be very different when released. Isn’t why it’s release has been postponed?
March 21, 2012 at 2:31 PM
@Oldgold
Try harder lady!
You could be right.
It reminds me of YRF’s attempt to refute all rumours about the Yash Chopra-SRK romantic film being a remake of his own “Daag”! 
It’s only gossip mills that are right. Actual writers & directors of films don’t matter, don’t know about their films & lie bigtime!
BTW if you have any common sense then please do explain how will they overhaul the entire story of the film in just 2 months & get it ready for release as well? You seem to know more about them than even they do!
March 21, 2012 at 12:24 PM
Now see the reasoning of Kagti in piece, ” I have heard lot about kahaani but not seen it”… If She has not seen it than how come she says its Different, Hearsay ?? She may be Right but reasoning is wrong and let us not forget She is just Pygmy compared to Aamir and Excel productions, Co- producers of the movie..
March 21, 2012 at 2:41 PM
@Bliss
Well even by ”hearing” about it she might know what her film actually has or not. Okay? She does know for sure what she has in her own film!
”She’s just a pygmy” – WHAT? The writer and director of the film is ”just a pygmy” compared to stars and producer?
LOL!
If Aamir himself keeps speaking about the film he is accused of hogging limelight, overshadowing his director etc. But if his director is speaking on the film, then he/she is dismissed as just a ”pygmy” or ”small fish”? Height of hypocrisy and double standards!
March 21, 2012 at 3:06 PM
It’s not about speaking but Empowerment of taking Decisions
. Now don’t tell me in Aamir, Srk, Salman films others have more power than them to take decisions 
. Its not Aamir specific, It’s this Star worship, be it Aamir, Srk, Salman or Bachchans… I see all fans never see wrong of there Fav stars and come up with long essays or showing other stars in bad light… Seen very very few fans of any star to say that there fav star was bad and movie was bad, except one instance where one srk fan said Don2 was Bad… Rest here from ravan to BG to BHTB to RA1 to Ghajini to Don2 are All hit and good movies in relative terms…
March 21, 2012 at 3:46 PM
@Bliss
I don’t deny Aamir Khan will have final say on the film, also considering that he’s producing it. But I pointed out that one can’t even completely negate or ignore the writer-director’s statements!
It’s all hypocrisy. When the same writer cries foul everyone believes them and when the same writer/director is defending the film then he/she is lying or being remote-controlled by the star!
March 21, 2012 at 12:36 PM
people like poor katgi are bit players here really
and so are the ‘heroines’
infact excel too is not the one taking the shots.
Hopefully , the one making crucial decisions is the one who SHOULD be making them
One shouldnt give the monkey a gun!!!
Remember ‘drona’–a ‘slick’ project boasting of loadsa sci fi effects and helped by a ‘talented’ visionary director called goldie (claim to fame–friend of who—an equally gifted visionary)
rotflol
Hopefully Aamir will maneuver and guide this project called ‘talaash@ (sic–want a better name ) to critical and financial safety by ‘hook or by crook’
back to some more work hahaha
March 21, 2012 at 12:57 PM
“let us not forget She is just Pygmy compared to Aamir and Excel productions, Co- producers of the movie..”
Yes- why on earth should we think that the writer-director of the project has any control over it? Obviously she is just a ‘pigmy’- what does she have to do after all- only write the script and provide the vision for the movie- hardly relevant.
March 21, 2012 at 12:59 PM
And BTW -she is a part of Excel productions and has been working with them for ages- including co-writing/ assistant directing ZNMD with the producer’s sister- she’s not some random outsider with no clout.
March 21, 2012 at 1:02 PM
I do believe what she says- but it was unnecessarily over-defensive of her to say that she hasn’t seen Kahaani and yet that she knows there are no similarities. Classy statement though- glad she didn’t use it as an opportunity to put down Ghosh or Balan as ‘small fry’.
March 21, 2012 at 1:17 PM
Amy should be given the ‘female emancipation award’ -special category in Bollywood
Well done amy
March 21, 2012 at 2:53 PM
LOL- this has nothing to do with female emancipation- its sad the way Hindi movies always put the star’s ego/ image before the director’s vision- even with Agent Vinod I feel like Saif has deliberately compromised Shridhar Raghavan’s style so that he can become a member of the ’100 crore club’. And then promising directors like Farhan have become reduced to SRK fanboys meaninglessly making Don after Don with titles like the ‘King is Back’ or whatever and going about giving worshipful interviews about him to the media.
Aamir might be in complete control of the marketing of all his films but I don’t think that he has ever curbed the creativity of his writers/ directors/ editors in order to make films that glorify him as much as possible- kudos to him for that.
March 21, 2012 at 2:49 PM
@Ami & Bliss
Well if Reema’s statements about Talaash are suspect in any way, then reasoning and ”statements” of people online is worse and even more ”un-trustworthy” than her statements! She can’t speak if she has not seen Kahaani and only heard about it (though she knows every bit about her own film!). But people online, 90% of who are not even remotely connected with the industry and know nothing concrete about Talaash can make all ”solid statements” about Aamir, Talaash and the team?
]
Whatever people are saying here is correct? And believable? Whatever a Zoom TV says is more believable than what Reema Kagti says?! [Though we all know these Zoom type guys are kept at arm's length from films especially by likes of Aamir Khan!
March 21, 2012 at 2:57 PM
“people online, 90% of who are not even remotely connected with the industry and know nothing concrete about Talaash can make all ”solid statements” about Aamir, Talaash and the team?
Whatever people are saying here is correct? And believable? Whatever a Zoom TV says is more believable than what Reema Kagti says?! ”
I don’t know about Bliss- but I don’t understand why you keep insisting that I am against Talaash when I have explained so many times that I am not. I am saying that I BELIEVE what Reema has said- that she is not reshooting the film and that it does not bear any similarity to Talaash. But I also believe that she must have watched Kahaani- otherwise her statement about there being no similarity is meaningless- its not a big deal either way.
March 21, 2012 at 3:14 PM
I am not against either talaash or Aamir
but I question kagti’s statement on reasoning part… I said in my earliest comment that its all theories that are floating and one can’t discard other… Either accept or reject all as we don’t know what is Truth and have same principles when same things happens any other stars, which I don’t see here.
March 21, 2012 at 3:57 PM
@Bliss
People here seem to be trying to ”accept” or ”prove” only one theory – that of Talaash team getting sleepless nights due to Kahaani and re-shooting the entire film or changing its entire story! Media only ”reported” about ”similarity” in climax, over-excited fans of other stars are taking it to whole new level by alleging that their entire story was similar to Kahaani or whole film will be re-shot and that Aamir’s other engagements (like TV show) probably influencing Talaash delay are baseless stuff!
March 21, 2012 at 1:00 PM
hahaha
My word ‘pygmy’ seems to have caught on
Disclaimer–no offence meant to any race/ethnicity/gender/height/length/width/girth/chest span
lol
March 21, 2012 at 1:51 PM
Glad that Team Talaash is finally taking steps to shut up all the glee filled sceptics waiting hungrily on internet forums–http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/showbiz/bollywood/not-another-kahaani-334
‘Aamir Khan’s usual nonchalance towards industry rumours seem to have reached an expiry date, as the actor is highly disturbed about Talaash being touted as a me-too Kahaani. Ever since he postponed Talaash to November, it has been alleged that the real reason behind the move was the film’s similarity to Vidya Balan’s runaway hit. No amount of clarification from producers Riteish Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar, besides Aamir himself, could stop tongues from wagging.
With the situation going from bad to worse, Reema Kagti, who has so far maintained a stoic silence about Talaash, felt the need to clear the air. She said, “Talaash is completely original, so comparisons with Kahaani are surprising. I have said this before but some people like to get carried away by idle gossip while the truth blends into oblivion.” But she believes things will change once the promos of Talaash go on air. “Talaash is ready and Aamir will soon see the first cut.”
We will wait for the real kahaani to unfold.’
March 21, 2012 at 1:53 PM
I think much as we argue her with a basic premise of honesty on part of all parties, some unfortunately dont have a shred of honesty in their arguments. The charge ( and the assertion by some who shall remain nameless)of Talaash being delayed due to its similarity to Kahaani or because of Aamir being unnerved by Khaani’s success is utterly wild, irresponsible,shameless and dishonest. It is a possibility ofcourse ( just because anything is possible) but we havent seen any evidence or argument supporting such a claim, other than dubious media reports and oppurtunistic fans of other stars. I think it is a matter of shame to resort to this kind of allegations without any evidence or information.
March 21, 2012 at 2:53 PM
@rajen1
Agreed 100%! It’s nothing but over-excited fans of other stars who’re using this possibility to trash Aamir Khan and run down the film. And one can’t rule out the possibility of some stars’ PR milking delay of Talaash to hype up their films as well.
March 21, 2012 at 3:04 PM
Rajen- I’m not sure if you’re referring to me here- but to clarify for the millionth time- I do not think that Talaash is ‘inspired’ by Kahaani or that it is a threat to Kahaani or that Aamir is intimidated by Vidya- but its equally wild/ irresponsible/ shameless/ dishonest to suggest that it’s Vidya and her PR that are behind this and to use this as an opportunity to put down Vidya when there is no evidence that she herself has said anything of this sort.
And I don’t see why everyone is getting so upset about this one particular rumour- for every big Khan film that comes out- the media cooks up a 100 similar improbable rumors- once the theatrical trailer comes out and its evident that the film is very different from Kahaani- the rumours will go away.
March 21, 2012 at 3:19 PM
Not referring to you,Ami!
I dont think VB or her people are to blame either.
It is the ‘mischief makers” and oppurtunist fans of other Khan.
To some extent, I do understand your spirited defense of Ms.Balan but I also see a serious possibility of Ms.Balan starting to take herself too seriously. The GREATEST star of all times still remains humble as ever and would never even in his dreams say ( even jokingly and no matter what the provocation ) that other stars should attach his last name to theirs.
March 21, 2012 at 3:26 PM
I don’t find the Khans adding her name statement to be arrogant but I do agree with this:
“I also see a serious possibility of Ms.Balan starting to take herself too seriously”
Her non-starry, down-to-earth quality is the best thing about her- and I hope that she doesn’t develop a Bollywood star ego. She’s still nowhere near as egoistic as SRK/ Salman/ Kareena – but she is a lot less humble than she was pre-TDP.
March 21, 2012 at 3:28 PM
BTW- one star today who really is the epitome of unsubstantiated arrogance- Ranveer Singh. Has he signed anything at all post Ladies Vs Ricky?
March 21, 2012 at 3:29 PM
@Ami
I feel you’re taking it all too personally. Anyone can see fans of which ”stars” are trying to make a big deal of Talaash delay. Don’t assume it’s particularly you or VB supporters.
You can see for yourself how some fans of Aamir’s rivals have suddenly turned VB fans overnight only to trash Talaash in comparison to Kahani (even before its release!). It’s all politics played by fans and ”camps” of other stars.
As for other stars’ PR, not only VB in particular, others have also tried to pounce on Aamir alleging he got ”afraid” of Emran Hashmi’s Shanghai, Akshay Kumar’s Rowdy Rathore & Housefull 2 or was earlier ”trembling” due to Agneepath (when he postponed Talaash from January to June!).
As for VB, she’s no saint either. Even despite Reema Kagti’s official statements on this issue, media is still showing ”videos” of Aamir being ”scared” due to Kahaani or VB being bigger than Khans or being a threat to the Khans. Her PR working fulltime nowadays.
March 21, 2012 at 3:24 PM
I’ve stayed out of this one but quite frankly it was so blatantly transparent that the moment Oldgold saw Kahaani she decided this would be a stick to beat Talaash with! And to be even more blunt about it I think if Hitchcock were directing Talaash Oldgold would still find it inferior to Kahaani! Incidentally I have seen Kahaani, liked it quite a bit, do plan to say something more on it but it too is indebted to Hollywood for a certain ‘key feature’ of its plot (which I won’t even hint at here). Surprised no one has noticed.
March 21, 2012 at 3:43 PM
” but it too is indebted to Hollywood for a certain ‘key feature’ of its plot”
Actually there are lot of tributes/homage to bangla cinema in the movie too! Anyhow that is what Director says and I don’t think he is lying.
March 21, 2012 at 3:53 PM
“‘key feature’ of its plot”
I guess I kinda know what you are alluding to…and agree with ya
March 21, 2012 at 2:03 PM
“Aamir Khan’s usual nonchalance towards industry rumours seem to have reached an expiry date, as the actor is highly disturbed about Talaash being touted as a me-too Kahaani. ”
So -as oldgold pointed out—the admission from the ‘horses mouth’—oldgold was right?lol
Aamir is ‘deeply disturbed’
“Talaash being touted as a me-too Kahaani”–now this is the height of idiocy. Team talaash is diggin a deep hole for themselves–who told em to give these crap labels to themselves–
lol@”me-too kahaani=talaash”
ps—Hiiya LS–dont worry bout aamir/talaash–he is competent enuf to handle it
What books are u reading? Anything for us mere mortalz?
March 21, 2012 at 3:41 PM
@Alex Adams
LOL! Very smart, eh? Oldgold was right! Ha!
Aamir is upset – if it all he is, it’s due to the struggle to handle both big projects TV show and Talaash together and also because even his fans have begun to lose patience and keep pestering him (whether online or when they meet him in person) on why his projects have got delayed & when will they come out, why he keeps fans waiting etc.
Amidst all this, the last thing he needs are bizarre rumours about his film or his equation with the film’s team!
One very important reason for Reema Kagti coming out to speak for Talaash are certain sections of media which reported that even she had now ”moved on” to her ”next project” and was busy writing and directing a new film, trying to imply as if nobody cared about Talaash (even its writer/director herself!).
The rumours were getting way too outlandish. No wonder they finally stopped ignoring them & came out to quash them!
The ”upsetness” has got nothing to do with Kahaani or legendary Vidya Balan ji.
March 21, 2012 at 3:49 PM
“Legendary Viday balan ji”
Lol
These days media uses such adjectives very lightly, even John abraham and murli karthik are legendary
March 21, 2012 at 3:26 PM
Re: “Aamir Khan’s usual nonchalance towards industry rumours seem to have reached an expiry date, as the actor is highly disturbed about Talaash being touted as a me-too Kahaani. ”
So -as oldgold pointed out—the admission from the ‘horses mouth’—oldgold was right?lol
What part of it sounds like an “admission’ to you?
Stop playing mischief and sucking up to both sides.
March 21, 2012 at 3:47 PM
Uncle rajen1 -Ok I will ‘suck up’ to only one side, obviously not yours!!!
Hahaha
Ie will prefer Oldgold here
Oldgold – I’ve been ‘forced’ to do this- hope u won’t mind
What all bad things people force me to do (no pun intended folks lol)
March 21, 2012 at 3:53 PM
Thanks, GRAMPS.
March 21, 2012 at 3:52 PM
Since everyone is weighing on this, I must too…lolz
Truth is always somewhere in bet.
While Aamir/Katgi may not be *threatened* per se, it is always a welcome sign when bar is set a wee bit higher and the competition has to straighten/strengten their act.
It is like one superior product in market does well, then rest who want to stay in competition have to up their ante.
So AUDIENCE here is in win-win situation. Not sure why people always have to *fight* on this blog site and slight people in name of “intellectual debates”!!!!!
More the merrier. Well made movies, that is.
Glad that certain monopolistic tendencies are broken here and glad that as an audience, I got to see something other than boy-meets-girls-loses-halfbrother-goes-to-spain-on-road-trip singing insane songs blah-blah sadela stuff.
Instead of giving ALL credit to the horse (actor), we should also give kudos to the trainer/sponsor(producer) and so forth. I think in our world actors are not put on pedestal but on kailaash and worshipped for rest of their lives!!! no hyperbole here
March 21, 2012 at 4:47 PM
@Di
Actors are worshipped? Ha! No way! Actors are trashed even without anyone knowing a thing about them. It takes a tweet of one lowlife critic hiding behind an anonymous Twitter handle to spread any kind of rubbish about a star or his/her films.
March 21, 2012 at 3:57 PM
Re: Truth is always somewhere in bet.
Really? I mean ,really?
If some mischief maker decides to suddenly call an innocent woman a slut and a serial philanderer and the woman denies it – the truth is ‘somewhere in between”?
Unless, there is ANY evidence that htere is some truth in the rumors spread by some and latched onto by shameless oppurtunists ( and may be I should add idiots too), this charge belongs to the same catagory.
March 21, 2012 at 4:04 PM
“If some mischief maker decides to suddenly call an innocent woman a slut and a serial philanderer and the woman denies it – the truth is ‘somewhere in between”?”
Dude…in all fairness…THAT analogy is not appropriate.
The movie was *ready* and then there was *delay* and then there were filmsy reasons (have to shoot for TV show…ya right….when did TV become MORE important than the philliums) and then there were reshoots.
And a suspence movie (of somewhat superior product) was released.
Tongues will wag. I really don’t care what the truth is AS LONG AS I get to watch good movies and as long as people don’t give me trash product to watch week after week and waste my time/money into watching there carelessly thrown together patchwork called “hindi movies”!!!
But you just wanted to give me a beating because you can’t give me a hug
March 21, 2012 at 4:11 PM
RE: But you just wanted to give me a beating because you can’t give me a hug
LOL. Sorry if it felt like an attack but I do feel that sometimes you do make statements rather loosely. Like when you say – we cant compare two stars or here when you say truth is always inbetween. These are very arbitrary generalisations and I find them out of place in a serious argument anbd bordering on illegitimate editorialisation.
March 21, 2012 at 4:12 PM
BTW: when a movie’s release is postponed, you continue to build up interest rate (high interest rates) and it continues to compound. SO there is always this “jaldi” to release a movie. Unless it is PST where the budget is so low, that the cost is already recovered by selling the satellite rights and they can wait one year to release the movie.
Desi Media will always go on a limb and PR team will do their “duties” but we all know how much of a *perfectionist* our Aamir is. So if he has to “reshoot” then he has to “reshoot”. It so happened that Kahani got released during the same time and maybe now instead of reshooting some scenes, they may be making the whole movie all over again…..hahahahahahha
What do I care!!!!
March 21, 2012 at 4:43 PM
@Di
”then there were filmsy reasons (have to shoot for TV show…ya right….when did TV become MORE important than the philliums”
TV show is important to him because he is also producing it! He’s as much concerned about his & his banner’s foray in TV as much as he’s concerned about his films! And it’s obvious that he’s accomplished in films, but is totally new to TV, so he’s being extra conscious about the show. I hope you’ve seen Sukhwinder Singh’s interview about his show & how he described th scale of the show & Aamir’s involvement in every detail.
He had intended to come with TV show around March-April, but it got delayed due to fire in which all the sets were destroyed. Later STAR TV made it clear to him that they don’t wish to air the show till IPL gets over. So now the show has been postponed to the very period when Talaash was supposed to release!
Aamir himself keeps saying the show is the biggest and most ambitious project he’s ever attempted in his career.
For a layman TV show may not seem important for a movie star. But it is important for him! He & his team started the research work on TV show before he signed Talaash or any other film.
Films can be postponed or preponed, but TV shows can’t be brought out at any time one wants! He’s taking more than a dozen networks to air his show (14 different languages), they all have to overhaul their existing schedules to make a slot for his show.
Apparently, STAR is still struggling to find a slot for his show due to the delays. This is why the exact launch date of his show has also not been confirmed yet.
March 21, 2012 at 4:49 PM
@Di
”of somewhat superior product)”
How can you or anyone of us call the already released suspense movie to be a ”superior product” in comparison to the one which is yet to be released? The superior or inferior comments can be made only after both films have released and been watched & compared by audience then!
March 21, 2012 at 3:58 PM
““I also see a serious possibility of Ms.Balan starting to take herself too seriously”
Kaisey..kaha…kab. Bechari ko aab yohi badnaam naa karo.
She is hate-K in everyway. She always was confident (even when she was *nobody*) Now they will call her arrogant, bitch.
When a woman is success, she is a bitch (along with other adjectives).
When a man is success, he is “king”, “badshaH”, “god”……….
March 21, 2012 at 4:07 PM
I would love her to be self-confident and not be denied in any way and that includes standing up for her status in the industry,her billig in films and her remuneration. She doesnt have to be coy or demure. She has always been very pleasant and that spills over in her performances. I just dont want her to develop any harsh edges. It is unpleasant enough in men but it is a major turn off in women ( call me sexist if you will). One can be confident without being strident, arrogant or disrespectful. Not saying that she has already become such but I do see a possibility. Today’s pop-culture and a society that gleefully consumes arrogant and disrespecful behaviour have weakened many a stars.It would be a shame if Ms.Balan falls a prey to the temptation of creating headlines with her interviews and statements when such wonderful things are happening in her career.
March 21, 2012 at 4:15 PM
“It is unpleasant enough in men but it is a major turn off in women ( call me sexist if you will). ”
Major hugs to your wife. And while hugging her, I will wipe all her shed and unshed tears!
March 21, 2012 at 4:46 PM
The inside info is that uncle rajen1 went home but was beaten by his better half , it seems
He is now taking it out here on poor vidya balan
Oops-should not be spilling the beans here lol
March 21, 2012 at 4:12 PM
This is very true Di- Topical new article on VB-
A few weeks ago, at the biggest and most farcical of the Hindi film award shows, Shah Rukh Khan and Ranbir Kapoor joshed about how Bollywood was ruled by three Ks: Khan, Kapoor and Kleavage, a sly dig highlighting exactly why they think The Dirty Picture was a smash hit.
They weren’t alone, with several industry commentators believing that despite the powerhouse performance at the core of an admittedly cheesy film, all irony was lost in what could undeniably be viewed as an exploitative film about exploitation.
Undeterred, Vidya Balan’s gone ahead and done her thing, having most recently shone the spotlight on that most important (and most criminally neglected) K of all, Kahaani.
Sujoy Ghosh’s finely crafted new film once again sees the actress sink her teeth into her kind of part: meaty as a 6oz. steak, cooked very rare. It is a nuanced film with a smashing ensemble, and while we may here hail Sujoy for digging deep after a pair of catastrophic misfires (Home Delivery, Aladdin), the fact remains that Balan is the reason his film – one otherwise destined for top reviews and warm indie-movie applause – has become a commercial sensation. And it has nothing to do with her body.
(Also, if all it took were curves and a willingness to flaunt them, Ameesha Patel and Malaika Arora’s kid sister would have flourishing careers.)
Currently, Bollywood’s not entirely sure what to make of Balan, the woman behind two unprecedented back to back hero-free hits. (I’d have counted No One Killed Jessica along with The Dirty Picture and Kahaani, but Rani Mukerji took on the traditional leading man archetype in that one.) Ours is a tragically sexist industry, and here’s a woman eschewing the trappings and making herself a star merely by insisting on cinema where the script gives her something to do. Hurrah. Compare that to Kareena Kapoor, who was in two historically humongous successes last year, excelling in the role of A-list arm candy.
Being able to fetch a film an opening at the box office without a popular leading man at its centre is no small feat, but being able to successfully carry off two highly commercial films where there isn’t even a ‘hero’ role in the script feels unprecedented. She started off prettily enough in Parineeta and Lage Raho Munna Bhai, but then stumbled around like a misfit, sticking out in mainstream entertainers while tabloids raced to find the cruelest adjectives to describe her wardrobe.
At which point she evidently decided the cookie-cutter mould just wasn’t woman enough for her, and started taking on challenging characters, eschewing both predictability and screen glamour. In her most recent film, she waddles around a sweaty city, so heavily pregnant as if with a teenager. In the one before that, her paunch eventually outdoes her décolletage. (Further comparison to Ms Kapoor is hardly necessary.) Clearly Balan is a woman who understands that sometimes the most unflattering angle actually shows you in the nicest light.
She isn’t our finest actress, but it’s fascinating watching her grow with each performance, all the while gathering nuances, like a snowball rolling determinedly down Mount Talent. Her simple but enviable ability to let the scene and the words do the acting for her, instead of spelling everything out for the camera, is a skill of its own amid her screechingly demonstrative peers.
The rest coasts on her skyrocketing confidence. She’s genuinely enjoying putting herself out on a limb, and that hunger is pushing her boundaries as an actress, honing her craft and making her better. That National Award might have come already, but we’re far from having seen the best of Vidya Balan. Like I said, she isn’t our finest actress. Yet.
March 21, 2012 at 4:20 PM
yes…was reading Kareen’s interview. She says that she would have not acted in a movie which didn’t have producer backing (the way VB did for kahani).
At least now she won’t go around begging for roles and getting/facing rejection. I hope she selects good movies in future couple years before marrying and settling down/popping babies with SRK
March 21, 2012 at 4:40 PM
Re:To fans and feminists, this is akin to the second coming of Christ
I have copy right on hyperbole on satyam shot…but join the gang dude
Feels good doesn’t it!!!
March 21, 2012 at 4:43 PM
Di,
Its a metaphor not hyperbole.Dont get your figures of speech mixed up!
March 21, 2012 at 4:29 PM
A good article even if it overstates things a little.
Re: Currently, Bollywood’s not entirely sure what to make of Balan
Thats certianly very true. But, it is such a rare occurence that no one knows what to make of her – general audience,fans,detractors.May be even herself.
To fans and feminists, this is akin to the second coming of Christ, for detractors – she is a flash in the pan. She seems to be enjoying it but I think mentally barely coping.
Just need to give it time and hope for the best.
March 21, 2012 at 5:23 PM
Good article on VB. But while she’s definitely doing very well for herself as an actress and has surely stolen a march over other heroines as of now (success of TDP could be attributed to skin show etc.but Kahani’s success is a great achievement, considering the time in which it released! March is never considered a favourable period for releasing films due to exam time in India).
She is being ”over-celebrated” as well. Comparing her to heroes or calling her a threat to heroes is too much and so are her own constant digs at other heroines who’re giving hits with big male stars. If a Kahani has succeeded, let’s not forget there’s also a PST which has succeeded & got immense acclaim! But PST is not getting even half the hype & celebration as she/her Kahani is getting!
As for National Award, I don’t exactly think TDP deserved an NA! But it’s atleast better than Priyanka Chopra getting one for Fashion!
March 21, 2012 at 5:05 PM
@Di
Woman has every right to bask in her glory. But she or her ”camp” need not compare themselves to their male counterparts or imply that her success even threatened the men!
As I said earlier in the day, she can call herself Goddess or Empress if she has topped her male counterparts’ achievements too (who she or her PR keeps comparing herself with). She is an amazing success as a heroine. But it’s not like her films have ”pwned” the Khans or threatened their position (as some media outlets are making headlines to prop her up!).
Kahani is her first film to make it to IMDb top 50 lists whereas Aamir Khan has several films which have made it to IMDb Top 50 & even Top 250. Same for SRK’s Swades & DDLJ. And as I said, even the Khans’ underperformers rake in more money than a VB film. So her PR calling her a ”threat” to Khans is totally outlandish! And so is her statement (even as a ”joke”) asking Khans to add Balan to their names! SRK is not exactly praised for calling himself king. If he is criticised for this despite all his formidable achievements over the decades, then how come you expect a recently successful VB to be spared of criticism?
This jumping around and her supporters saying that it was her film which ”forced” Aamir Khan to not just delay, but also entirely RE-SHOOT and overhaul the film is going completely overboard. Delay has happened. No re-shooting is being done!
And Khans have nothing to fear from her either in terms of quality or box office. Any Khan – not just Aamir.
Maybe the day a solo VB film breaks records of Gadar/DDLJ/3 Idiots/HAHK then she can say whatever she wants to and even ask for a legislation to get all heroes to add Balan to their names!
March 21, 2012 at 4:13 PM
Rajen1 uncle-pray Kool down
We all are scared and infact shivering in our ‘boots’
The ladies here need my ‘support’ now
I am back after the (pleasant) job of ‘sucking up’ to Oldgold
March 21, 2012 at 4:17 PM
Of all things she migh have done/said or not done/said,I would have applauded her if she had had a stinging comeback( it is not splet cumback,Alex) when SRK/Saif made fun of her sressing at those infamous FF awards.Dont care if they were staged. She should have insisted THEN that she be allowed a fair comeback. It was really uncomfortable to watch that thing on FF( even if it was staged)
March 21, 2012 at 4:18 PM
Re: when SRK/Saif made fun of her sressing
dressing
March 21, 2012 at 4:23 PM
“if she had had a stinging comeback”
but then you would say that she has “edges”.
I think job of actors is to act (in movies)…not do all this shenanigens. In HW too, some “actors” are known to inhabit drug rehabs instead of making movies!
I hope VB doesn’t lose focus and focusses only on her *work* instead of all this non-sense!!
March 21, 2012 at 4:21 PM
What is it about vidya balan that is eliciting such OTT reactions from people
And now even from perhaps the biggest production houses currently aamir khan prod and excel
The females here like Amy , Di and Oldgold are not entirely wrong
This HAS made something somewhere uncomfortable
Forget about them–even some guys on this blog are not being able to tolerate her current position
C’mon guys-let a woman take ‘centrestage’ for a while!!
She is doing well JUST on the basis of her talent and aptitude and script choice
No godfathers or mothers , no item numbers
No fishy goings on
She’s not even misbehaving or anything like that
Shes just answering questions that she is being posed by over eager journos
To whom: she is replying in a normal witty manner
And nothing compared to the ridicule she was/has been subjected to by SRK/ others in award functions from her poor dress sense to her ‘auntiness’
Time to step back and let her enjoy her time
No point in being insecure guys
ESP Aamirs fans -he is more than capable of handling this ‘aftermath’ and will surely gross atleast 5 times kahaani
But y does this have to be ‘rubbed in’
This has more to do with the inequitable distribution of audience perception of male and female stars’ importance and worth rather than their talent alone!!!!
March 21, 2012 at 4:31 PM
Well said Alex
*applause*
Rajen- when did SRK/ Saif take a potshot at her dress sense? During her Heyy Babyy days?
March 21, 2012 at 4:36 PM
Yes
March 21, 2012 at 4:38 PM
@Ami: ya..kudos to this lexy dude…I wanted to say somehting but then he is *dangerous* kind of guy..he will read too much into our congrats…next thing you know, he might be knocking on your front door and asking your roomie to leave, so he could have “alone” time with you….lolz
March 21, 2012 at 4:41 PM
LOL! Ami and Di – fell for the shameless pandering!!!!
March 21, 2012 at 4:55 PM
Thanx Amy and Di
Btw Oldgold is still recovering from the ‘sucking up’
“next thing you know, he might be knocking on your front door and asking your roomie to leave, so he could have “alone” time with you….lolz”
Thanx for the bright idea: Di
Dint think about it
And btw the ‘roomie’ girl (what was her name?) doesn’t need to leave either -don’t worry-more the merrier
Joking -whos got the time
March 21, 2012 at 5:34 PM
@Alex
”And now even from perhaps the biggest production houses currently aamir khan prod and excel”
LOL!
Yeah yeah all official statements from AKP, Excel, Reema, STAR TV, Farhan, Ritesh, Aamir are fake and only gossip spread by Zoom is right!
Nothing to do with VB. Rather she and some of her supporters (particularly new ”converts”) seem obsessed with comparing her to Khans, other male stars and their films.
”No point in being insecure guys”
LOL!!
WHO is ”insecure” of her? She and her supporters are hell bent on proving that not just heroines but even heroes are insecure of her!
March 21, 2012 at 4:21 PM
Damn shame about the delay – typical wait for an Aamir film but I guess its always worth the wait.
March 21, 2012 at 4:31 PM
When the box office worth of vidya to aamir khan is compared and it’s shown how the former is 5-10 times lesser than the latter–find it a bit perverse
Is it vidyas fault?
Is not a known fact that audiences have never supported a female centric film, forget one like kahaani which has nobody known other than that female?
I have joked about vidyas ‘auntiness’ myself but seriously speaking she HAS made an impact
And aamir is not becoming ‘small’ by altering his plans as per audience feedback
In my view, IF he has done it, I give him MORE credit !!
It takes special conscientousness to able to realise this and not letting ones self importance blind oneself
At the end of the day–aamir knows that it is all about the paying public and nobody (yes nobody) is bigger than them
Anyone who thinks he is bigger, is brought down to earth on the first weekend!!!
Yes–this is NOT the main reason for his delaying talaash
But probably ONE of the things
Aamir has a diff ult position to defend
He is not in the game to survive right now -like abhishrek
Or to produce hits by hook or by crook like ajay/akshay
Or to produce the biggest hits like Salman
Or to hold onto his ‘biggest’ vibe like SRK
He has to gross the highest AND ensure its a quality product AND ensure the product caters to his standing amongst his fans and his own eyes
Hence these ‘moves’-nothing working in them!!!
March 21, 2012 at 5:50 PM
@Alex
”Is it vidyas fault?
Is not a known fact that audiences have never supported a female centric film, forget one like kahaani which has nobody known other than that female?
I have joked about vidyas ‘auntiness’ myself but seriously speaking she HAS made an impact
And aamir is not becoming ‘small’ by altering his plans as per audience feedback”
She has made an impact in her own right. And if at all she has ”threatened” anyone, it’s her fellow heroines. Not heroes. Saying it as it is, it’s a fact, not some sexist statement or ”insecure defense” of a star!
What ”audience feedback”? I can believe if anyone says he probably postponed Talaash due to audience feedback in his own test screenings. But not if someone says he got scared due to success of other film! He’s simply not that kind! And in previous comments I and another member called Saurabh have given several examples from past, in his career, where he’s done films despite similar other films coming & succeeding prior to his own film.
Yes Aamir does not become ”small”. But it’s some mischievous and over-excited commentators online and in media who’re trying to belittle him by saying he got scared or ran away due to success of Kahani! Discounting all official statements and articles about Talaash and Aamir’s other projects! Here’s a guy who does not even want his ads to be shown with his show just because he does not want to divert attention from the essence & message of his TV show so why would he agree to release his film around the same time? Some of his show’s segments are live. How would he have shot for his show and managed film’s promotions all at the same time? And wouldn’t he have been accused of milking social causes and TV show to promote his film?! The intent for his making that show would have been defeated if he had come with it at same time as the film! And it’s reported in media that STAR didn’t allow him to further postpone the show! So he managed to convince Excel and delayed the film instead!
The point is that MAIN reasons for his delaying Talaash are being put aside while only this one is being given particular importance! Why so? Just to prop up the heroine and her film, connecting success of her film to delays of others films?! And going to the extent of making FALSE news that the film is being re-shot or its story is the ”same” as Kahani?!
His show will run for at least 2-3 months. He’ll take some weeks off after being done with it. I’d really like to know HOW will he re-shoot the film or entirely change its story AND promote it, release it in just remaining 2 months!
March 21, 2012 at 5:40 PM
LOL!!
I see my name being taken in vain here – even by satyam. I do like your statement for me though – ‘using Kahaani as a stick to beat Talaash’!! LOL!! Good one.
There are so many statements I would have liked to rerspond, but now to search each and every one of them in the jungle of comments is beyond me.
But some clarifications regarding my view of this postponement;
- the news comes just after the release of Kahaani. If it were my film, I too would not want it’s release so close to another critically acclaimed, and fairly popular film of the **same genre**
-**because** the bar has been raised.
Amir always flexes his muscles in trying to achieve this ‘perfection’ that his fans think he has. He walks over everyone as we saw with TZP and even the lady director of PL who wasn’t pleased with him. So my conclusion that he wants to improve some things to be on par with the raised bar, so the postponement.
My view is based on these two things ONLY. Any other reason is not mine.
I really really loved Kahaani. Being a pure (almost) vegetarian (which means watching only Hindi films), it doesn’t bother me, Satyam, that it is similar to some Hollywood film. I don’t know this film nor do I care.
Did it bother the fans of Gajhani that it is an extremely inferior remake of another Hollywood film?
March 21, 2012 at 5:52 PM
And yes, I’m not saying he’s worried about the BO. He isn’t. It’s the quality which I feel he found lacking and is now trying to improve to reach Kahaani standards.
I will go out of my way in praise and support for a woman’s achievement in a world where they praise men blindly.
Satyam will come up with a very condescending review of Kahaani like GF’s (who wears rose coloured glasses while watching foreign films), but Talaash, no matter how it is will be praised to the heavens.
March 21, 2012 at 6:10 PM
Your dig has no basis, but still, I’d prefer my rose colored glasses to your cataracts when it comes to watching an Aamir film.
And my note on Kahaani wasn’t condescending. A critical perspective isn’t the same as condescension. Others (Qalandar, Shalini) had thought I was too kind on the film! The truth on my feelings is somewhere in between. I actually liked the film for the most part, said as much several times, even if I found certain parts of it less than impressive. One doesn’t have to “really, really love” Kahaani as you did to have a valid opinion on it.
March 21, 2012 at 6:17 PM
Cataracts?? LOL!!
I despised him in Gajhani. In others (post Lagaan, haven’t seen the ones previous to that) he is OK. Liked him a lot in Dhobi Ghat.
AND I was looking forward to Talaash. Still am though I fear dimishing returns.
Don’t confuse my dislike of him as what he comes across to me as a person, with him in his films.
March 21, 2012 at 6:41 PM
Actually GF has as far as I can recall not praised an Aamir film ‘to the heavens’ in many years. I on the other have praised 3I and TZP very highly but have not done the same for RDB or some others. Unfortunately your facts are not for the first time MIA!
The problem is that ever since you’ve seen Kahaani you’ve first of all decided that no matter what Talaash can’t be better. It would be one thing to do this for a more predictable subject and director but surely the film deserves the benefit of the doubt? Specially when Kahaani is hardly the stuff of Hitchcock! And in this regard I should say that Kahaani is a bit of a MacGuffin here because you just want to go after Aamir and Talaash!
But secondly this insinuation that Kahaani might have something to do with the delay of Talaash is a bit odd given that Aamir has had these patches preciously as well where he suddenly and inexplicably takes these long breaks. He also said recently that he wasn’t mentally ready for D3. Is that a fallout of Kahaani as well?
One can certainly dislike a star but these are rather flimsy grounds to go after him. Regrettably Aamir doesn’t quite offer the opportunities that some other stars do in this regard and hence the constant attacks directed at him always have to be a bit ‘hysteric’ in nature. I am not insulting you. Just being a bit theoretical. The attack or questioning of Aamir has to be entirely in excess of anything he’s actually saying or doing. It’s not like SRK where one can just restrict oneself to what he says and does in full glare!
March 21, 2012 at 7:04 PM
>The attack or questioning of Aamir has to be entirely in excess of anything he’s actually saying or doing. It’s not like SRK where one can just restrict oneself to what he says and does in full glare!
Exactly!!
Amir doesn’t say ALL, leaving a lot unsaid, especially unshown (for the sake of his image) while SRK says too much, more than what he thinks and has in mind, thought of at the spur of the moment (for his image as well).
>The problem is that ever since you’ve seen Kahaani you’ve first of all decided that no matter what Talaash can’t be better
Yes, it is a problem…with you.
I haven’t decided that Talaash can’t be better. In fact I think NOW it has all chances to be equally good if not better.
>I on the other have praised 3I and TZP very highly
How is your high praise for TZP and 3I different from my high praise of Kahaani? Or is your opinion worth much more than mine?
>these are rather flimsy grounds to go after him.
My grounds to form an opinion about why he postponed his film seem very solid to me, even as they seem flimsy to you.
>Kahaani is hardly the stuff of Hitchcock!
I Like Hitchcock’s films, but I think Kahaani stands it’s ground in comparison.
>you just want to go after Aamir and Talaash!
You are right re: first part
>given that Aamir has had these patches preciously as well where he suddenly and *** inexplicably*** takes these long breaks.
Well, I’m giving you the explanation in this case. LOL!
March 21, 2012 at 7:14 PM
1)It’s a bit weird that you authorize yourself to fill in the blanks as you wish for a man who leaves things unsaid and then present it as fact. Isn’t this a little disturbing?
2)My point on those Aamir films was the obvious. Your claim is that I praise everything to the heavens. I don’t. But it’s not my fault if Aamir does more meaningful stuff than most other actors!
3)If Kahaani is comparable to a Hitchcock film then I guess Talaash really cannot live upto this standard. If you see one of the world’s greatest and most influential directors being matched by Sujoy Ghosh (in a film with a twist I’ve seen a few times from Hollywood including one relatively recently) I guess I should just exit this debate!
March 21, 2012 at 7:37 PM
>then present it as fact
As much a fact as with your opinion
>I guess I should just exit this debate!
You should. Because you seem to think seeing a **similar twist** in TWO or THREE HOLLYWOOD films is OK, but it’s presence in Kahaani makes it less worthy.
You even praise Gajhani – a copy.
March 21, 2012 at 10:59 PM
Some of those Hollywood films are pretty mediocre efforts and I’d hardly commend them on any score!
Note how you give away the game here. This isn’t the first time you’ve called Ghajini a ‘copy’. Never saw you use the same word for Ra One, a film that in every other moment referenced a Hollywood genre film! Or Don for that matter where leaving aside the older Don so much of its aesthetics and in the new one even the plotline is so obviously derivative of Hollywood in tons of ways.
March 21, 2012 at 8:21 PM
Satyam- While I don’t think that Kahaani is comparable to the work of Hitchcock in any meaningful way- I do think that it was more enjoyable and of a higher standard than any other Bollywood thriller that I’ve seen- save for Ek Haseena Thi.
I don’t understand why you’re comparing it to the best of Hollywood – since when have these been reasonable standards to hold a Hindi action/thriller film to?
No offense- but it does seem unfair when you don’t have a problem with films like Ghajini but you put down a Kahaani for being inspired by Usual Suspects. (I think that’s what you’re getting at- I could be wrong- I can’t find the earlier comments that lead to this debate between you and OG.)
March 21, 2012 at 10:55 PM
Didn’t have Usual Suspects in mind but my larger point is:
1)With Ghajini the reason I valued this film a lot and still do is because I see it as an important attempt to rekindle a certain tradition. Which in turn isn’t an end in itself to my mind but a means of exploring certain questions that I don’t see other kinds of cinema engage in. In the South the tradition has been kept alive though I by no means think highly of much that is dished out in the name of masala there. The Tamil version of Ghajini was fairly enjoyable but nothing special for its contexts and there of course the obvious Memento rip. The Hindi which was better in some respects (I’ve talked about this elsewhere) was a valuable move within its contexts. This was in any case the prism through which I approached the film. When I praised a film like 3I I was relying less on contexts. Moreso with Ghajini though I did find it rather effective anyway.
2)I have no problems with Kahaani. I will get to this in a piece. But I also don’t think this is an extraordinary film. I am pleased the film got made, very pleased that it did well. I certainly enjoyed it. But if the point is that it’s something very special I disagree. Within this context the Hollywood point has to be made. If the film is going to be showered with the greatest adjectives (even compared to Hitchcock as with Oldgold) I think it only fair to bring this up. If I had talked about Ghajini in the very same ways the Memento point would be that much important but I did not! I think whenever a film is praised in absolute terms these questions become important. Otherwise I have no problem with borrowing either. As a matter of fact this Hollywood element has been handled interestingly. But check out my Ghajini piece and you’ll see what I’m driving at.
I liked Kahaani. Others like it a lot more than I do. That’s fine. But if a film is going to be offered as an example of something exceptional it is perfectly fair to debate this point. And certainly I said everything that I did in the context of Oldgold’s remarks on Talaash.
As a general matter I’d repeat another point (ad nauseam!). I think how much one likes a film or not relative to another person is less important. But I think a more interesting film or body of work lends itself to a variety of interpretations. I am for example a fan of many Dutta films. But these films can be approached from two directions. On the one hand a certain epic sensibility, a wonderful visual sweep, a willingness to explore raw political questions and so on. On the other hand the very male ethos of this world, the disturbing kind of violence that is sanctioned at points, the entire edifice eventually put at the service of a nationalistic narrative without adequate ‘translation’, etc. Both positions are defensible. The works are minimally doing both. I like this director a lot on his good days. Some of the movies are very strong. However it’s a question of that entry point into a film. Which isn’t completely arbitrary of course. It’s about what seems most crucial in a film given one’s perspectives. I love Dil Se (!). But this is a problematic film at many levels. Lots of ways to interpret different elements in a film. One could sound rather positive on the film as well as the opposite. Getting back to Ghajini my preferred frame of reference on the film was to see it as the attempt to re-trigger a certain tradition. The film is hardly earth-shaking otherwise.
It does happen quite often that films, specially those with any pretensions to being somewhat different or offbeat, tend to get lionized beyond all reasonable measure. It almost gets to a point where there is a pressure to ‘like’ it as much as everyone else. In such situations I am most often arguing against the reception of the work and not as much the work itself.
March 21, 2012 at 11:22 PM
“It does happen quite often that films, specially those with any pretensions to being somewhat different or offbeat, tend to get lionized beyond all reasonable measure. It almost gets to a point where there is a pressure to ‘like’ it as much as everyone else. In such situations I am most often arguing against the reception of the work and not as much the work itself.”
I didn’t see your earlier comments- I thought that you were categorizing Kahaani as a bad film because of its derivativeness. Now that I know what you meant- I agree with a lot of what you’ve said- especially the bit above.
I had a lot of problems with Kahaani in terms of how the thriller aspect unfolded- but the wonderful atmosphere that the film evoked, the subversively strong heroine and Bidya’s lovely, subtle flirtation with Rana more than made up for that IMO. Its no Hitchcock masterpiece- but I think it has plenty to commend despite its flaws.
BTW- what did you think of her performance? I think that its her best so far.
March 22, 2012 at 2:55 AM
@satyam and ami -after watching kahaani, which i loved(though the use of macguffin could have been smarter her), ithought i should ask this. without getting into this debate, i wanted to know ur views on ‘teen deewarein’(a thriller which worked for me on a lot of levels-find it more appealing then kahaani).the way it cleverly employed the ‘roshomon device’ is commendible. so satyam and ami, where would u rate ‘teen deewarein’ as a thriller? also which other bwood/hwood thrillers do u guys greatly like?
March 22, 2012 at 9:39 AM
I haven’t seen Teen Deewarein- I don’t watch too many old Hindi movies. As for thrillers- I have way too many that I like- but my all time favorite is the 1960s French thriller Le Samourai. Recently I really liked Shutter Island, Martha Marcy May Marlene and the old German thriller Run Lola Run. In Bollywood- my favourite thriller is Ek Haseena Thi.
BTW- Martha Marcy is really good. Its an American Indie film about a young woman under the influence of a cult leader-released last year. You should see it.
March 22, 2012 at 11:34 AM
@amy- teen deewarein is not so ‘old’. it released in 2003(directed by nagesh kukunoor, starring naseeruddin shah, jackie shroff and nagesh him who play three convicts in a prison.also has ‘juhi chawla’ as a reporter). i think u propababl mistook the name for ‘teen deviyan’. but seeing un abashed luv for thriller, do check out this kukunoor film, u will like it. i will try to get my hands on martha marcy, on ur recommmendation. have seen ‘shutter island’(liked it).also seen run lola run(for frank potente)
March 21, 2012 at 5:58 PM
@Oldgold
- It’s just a coincidence that this news came close to release of Kahani. I don’t believe it’s a reason sufficient enough to attribute delay of Talaash to it!
- As for the second point, it’s lame! Talaash is not a case of TZP or PL. And PL director only disapproved of some of his marketing strategies. Otherwise Aamir was never present during the making of PL.
Maybe he wants to focus more clearly on it after he’s gotten off the burden of TV show from his head. But allegations of Talaash’s story being ”same” as Kahani or ”re-shooting” the film, ”changing its story” are baseless. Sticking to them even despite the filmmaker denying those rumours and constantly comparing to VB seems like a desperate attempt to run down Talaash.
March 21, 2012 at 6:04 PM
Prateek I admire your staunch support for the causes of ‘The Postponement’. On the other hand, I don’t find lameness, but a lot of logic in my deductions. And I will stick to it.
March 21, 2012 at 6:06 PM
>constantly comparing to VB
Duh?
March 22, 2012 at 8:39 AM
Vidya Balan is the female Emran Hashmi.
March 22, 2012 at 9:52 AM
@satyam
and why I think I’ll like Talaash less (again, not for the reasons you think 
To continue our discussion (???!!!) One point at a time.
The reasons why I really really love Kahaani (not at all for the reasons you think
1. It will be a long long time before we see another woman oriented thriller let alone a woman oriented film.
YES!! I am 100% sure, even without watching the film that Talaash will not deliver.
I’d rather watch a woman searching around for someone than a macho man prowling around with that fierce superior frown in Talaash of something.
2. Kahaani came like a breath of fresh air. No, item song with a woman gyrating away in front of a bunch of drinking drooling men, no exploitation of women in the guise of ‘sexual liberation’, No hero surrounded by multiple near naked women falling over him. I love fresh air and this was really really fresh. It will be quite a long time before we see another film not trying to bring this angle by some means or other.
YES!! I’m sure Talaash will not be fresh (or at least not as much). We already know there is the prostitute angle with him getting seduced and we have seen a skimpily clad Kareena. How this is dealt with we have to see. Amir is very fond of kissing his heroines so perhaps there’s a seduction scene with Amir.
Whatever, regarding this it will be the same old same old….
3. Kahaani is one of the few (or only) recent films shot totally in the backstreets and alleys of a city. Very very authentic. I know Talaash was also shot in brothels etc and may show backstreets and alleys, but it has also been shot in London (not sure if it is only the underwater scene). This one has to wait and find out.
4. I love twists at the end, because I’ve reached a stage where ‘Khooni Kaun’ doesn’t thrill that much. Half way through and I have my suspicions which 99% of the time are proven correct. A twist throws a surprise and that satisfies me. This film did it well and proper. Perhaps Talaash will do it too.
As for your shock at equating it with Hitchcock films, well. The films I’ve watched are The Vanishing Lady, Notorious Birds etc I can’t help it if I enjoyed this somewhat more.
Anyway, I’m NOT fond of spy thrillers which some of his films were. These don’t interest me. That’s why I’m not interested in Agent Vinod.
5. Big Budget, super stars, famous stars, foreign shootings blah blah blah… I’ve had enough. Kahaani is a much needed relief from that. It is a simple film. It was very soothng to see a normal cop as opposed to the designer cops of Dabaang, Singham, and I fear Talaash too.
6. And last of all. Kahaani came first. It was a surprise. There was no building of anticipation, expectation, hopes etc. Talaash being of the same genre comes later. Come on. I’ve already been to a party
March 22, 2012 at 10:01 AM
I’m still loking forward to Talaash very much- and I will not mind Kareena’s skimpy clothes as long as she has an interesting role and is not shown as the typical cliched prostitute with a heart of gold. But- I am surprised at how the women in the trailer are depicted considering that the writers and the director are women- Aamir is shown as the active subject doing things while the women are portrayed as objects- with introductory shots of the camera zooming in on them from behind and then followed by them gazing away into the distance passively- the gaze is very stereotypically male. Again- still looking forward to this very much- just surprising coming from a woman.
March 22, 2012 at 12:38 PM
@Ami
Your comments are curious! So now the only prism to judge Talaash or any other film, is gender-based one? Why do you feel the need to doubt or trash male centric films simply on your assumptions of portrayal of female characters in it?
And why should a film be celebrated to skies JUST because it is female centric? Your feminism seems to interfere with objectivity in your perception of any film!
What is ”surprising coming from a woman”? Tell me what positive portrayal has Farah Khan provided for female characters in her films, being a woman herself? Or what Ekta Kapoor does to women in her TV serials?! Why are you ready to point fingers only at Talaash, eh?
From available news & interviews about Talaash, both Rani & Kareena have author-backed roles in this film, one person praised it for being the rare Khan film in which actresses have such good roles & ample scope to perform (”perform” is not kissing or love-making scenes here!).
Playing a sex worker, automatically makes Kareena a sexual object?
Huh?
So you guys have already made up your mind to call Talaash inferior, simply because it’s male centric (as opposed to female centric films which are always superior!) and because of your ”assumptions” about treatment of female characters in it vis-a-vis a Kahani/TDP?!
Finally, even if this film focusses more on Aamir compared to the heroines in it, it’s not a reason enough to trash it simply because unlike other stars Aamir does only 1 film a year or in this case, 1 film in 2-3 years! And he has his own loyal audience & fans too. Nothing wrong if he dominates the frame! He’s a totally reclusive star compared to all others, doesn’t even do many ads, so I don’t think it’s wrong or worthy of bashing if he dominates! His films are anyday better than films of other male stars which are designed purely to showcase them and their biceps or dimples!
Kareena & Rani aren’t going to be mere arm-candy, like a Sonakshi in Dabangg or a mere damsel in distress like Kaajal in Singham!
You can do your feminist critique of Talaash after it releases & bash it to your hearts content, while comparing it to Kahani & celebrating woman power!
March 22, 2012 at 12:46 PM
What a reply!
March 22, 2012 at 1:47 PM
Here’s what I said on this very same thread- just a few comments down:
“But- I agree with you that just because Kahaani had a female lead it doesn’t mean that it will be superior or better than a film with a male lead just because the female lead is rarer. And in any case- I’m still hoping that Rani and Kareena have a lot to do and it doesn’t turn out to be another case of the hero dominating every frame with the women being served up as window dressing.”
But obviously its easier for you to hound me with your Aamir fanaticism if you selectively ignore some of the things I say and only respond to the comments that you can twistedly interpret as ‘Anti-Aamir’ sentiments.
March 22, 2012 at 2:42 PM
My supposed Aamir ”fanaticism” is nowhere close to your obsession with feminism & doubting every film which has a big male superstar in it!
Whatever Talaash will be, it will be at least better than other stars’ films where the heroine is so clueless that she can’t even recognise her husband if he shaved off his moustache!
March 22, 2012 at 2:52 PM
If you are unable to comprehend my painstaking explantation that I have no problem with this film on grounds of its male star and choose to ignore everything I’ve said completely and persist with your attempts at painting me as a man hating feminist- that is your problem not mine.
Especially since I’ve been very enthusiastic about this film from the beginning of this thread long before the Kahaani/ female protagonist issue crept in- and when I’ve said on this very thread that my favourite thriller is Le Samourai which is in fact male centric- your accusations of my feminism deterring me from enjoying any male-centric films is completely baseless. Clearly you don’t even know what feminism means.
I’m not going to continue with this pointless conversation any longer – If it pleases you to ignore everything I’ve said and insist that I am a man hater/ Aamir hater- please do so. Its impossible to engage in a debate with somebody when they aren’t responding to anything that I say and persisting with their own illogical assumptions.
March 22, 2012 at 3:31 PM
@Ami
I already replied to you in a comment below. Don’t assume I am just a blind Aamir fanatic and don’t assume about my knowledge or lack of it on feminism. I did clarify myself in a longer response below.
March 22, 2012 at 3:33 PM
YEah- I just saw it- replied to it as well. I was reasoning with you patiently the whole time- but once you start making silly accusations about me hating films because they star men I cannot help but question your motivations- especially when from the beginning of this thread I’ve said that this film looks good.
March 22, 2012 at 3:34 PM
And you are one to talk about not making assumptions- if you look at my reply to your clarification- its evident how many false assumptions you have made about me.
March 22, 2012 at 3:22 PM
Good one Prateek.
March 22, 2012 at 1:42 PM
Prateek- If you’re going to read all kinds of sinister assumptions into my post you will obviously find loads to object to. Here is what I am saying: Male-centric films are NOT any less enjoyable than female centric ones and the male perspective is just as valid as the female one. However considering that a woman made this film I am surprised with the way it has been shot.
I do not watch Ekta’s serials but I’m always surprised at the way Farah portrays her female characters. And that surprise is quite reasonable. I did say that Kareena’s clothes do not detract from the film. I also said several times on this thread that the film will probably have good roles for the women.
I know you are an Aamir fan but you do not need to fanatically take apart any perfectly neutral statement I make regarding his film. I actually like him quite a lot- far more than the other Khans. You seem to have an irrational desire to attribute any less than adulatory comment about Aamir to some anti-Aamir ulterior motives. I’m not dissing the movie in any way in my comment.
As a woman- I obviously enjoyed the fact that Kahaani was the rare film with an intelligent female protagonist. Does that mean that Talaash is somehow inferior? Not at all- and I never said that! Stop attacking me for no reason. And just because I enjoy a film with a strong female character it does not mean I am incapable of enjoying a film with a male lead. Feminism does not imply misoandry. I’m not going to ‘bash a film because it doesn’t celebrate women power’.
March 22, 2012 at 1:52 PM
And also- by surprise I only mean surprised at the way the women have been framed in the trailer. The film itself could turn out to be very different- I’m not making any judgments on that.
Also- when I said a ‘stereotypically male gaze’ I did not mean that in a derogatory way. Simply that it did not look like the work of a female director. If I thought that it was derogatory or sleazy- I would have said that. But I didn’t. So stop making wild accusations about my supposed judgement of the film.
March 22, 2012 at 3:13 PM
@Ami
”However considering that a woman made this film I am surprised with the way it has been shot.”
- You are judging the ENTIRE FILM and the way the WHOLE FILM has been shot merely on the basis of a small time teaser?
Why any surprise? I’d like to know what you thought of Zoya’s portrayal of females in ZNMD.
What according to you are female directors supposed to do? Please elaborate.
In case of Talaash, I believe Kareena has been portrayed the way she has, simply because she’s playing a sex worker. A sex worker herself behaves & carries herself to pander to ”stereotypical male gaze” if I’m not mistaken. I don’t see what wrong Reema Kagti has done, if at all she has as you say, in the way she projected Kareena in the teaser.
BTW, it’s just a teaser. You expect them to show all their cards in the first teaser itself? It’s obvious they’ll show more of Aamir and focus on him going about the affairs in the first look of the film. And gradually they’ll show other characters too in forthcoming trailers.
I don’t expect everyone to praise Aamir. If you notice, I and other fans have criticised him in older comments on this thread. I am only commenting about this constant alluding to Kahani in discussions about Talaash and now using feminism argument to ”cast doubt” on merits of a male superstar’s film.
I don’t care which Khan/Kumar/Kapoor you like or dislike. It’s not about Aamir only. You seem to be after every male superstar’s film!
Currently seem to be using Kahani to back your doubts about Talaash. Wonder which film you’ll pick when you have to go after Housefull, YRF film, ETT etc.
I know feminism does not spell misoandry, but sorry to say, your comments gave such impression only.
March 22, 2012 at 3:29 PM
I know I said I wouldn’t continue this conversation but I cannot help it when your reasoning is so blantantly unfair
“your comments gave such impression only”
Obviously- if you look so determinedly for such impressions you will find them
“- You are judging the ENTIRE FILM and the way the WHOLE FILM has been shot merely on the basis of a small time teaser?”
Here is what I said earlier:
“I am surprised at how the women in the trailer are depicted” and also- by surprise I only mean surprised at the way the women have been framed in the trailer. The film itself could turn out to be very different- I’m not making any judgments on that.”
I NEVER judged the film negatively- only expressed my surprise at the trailer. Can you just READ what I write instead of imagining what I’m thinking and then arguing with my imagined opinions?
“I and other fans have criticised him in older comments on this thread. I am only commenting about this constant alluding to Kahani in discussions about Talaash and now using feminism argument to ”cast doubt” on merits of a male superstar’s film.”
Funny thing is- I was praising Talaash’s teaser without any comparisons. It was you who brought up the Kahaani rumours and put down Vidya so I defended her. I never intended to make this comparison on my own.
You really have absolutely no grounds for these accusations you keep making. I am not undermining Aamir or his film- I liked the teaser and I’m looking forward to it for crying out aloud!
March 22, 2012 at 3:36 PM
I didn’t bring up any rumours about Kahani. It was already being discussed before I commented on it. I am not imagining anything. I am responding to your exact words only. Now please also tell me how I should read or perceive your comments, so that I don’t offend you & understand you more clearly.
Thanks a lot for liking Talaash teaser (which I myself didn’t like much, found it a tad underwhelming compared to the wait & big names associated with it). Great that you’re looking forward to the film.
March 22, 2012 at 3:41 PM
“I didn’t bring up any rumours about Kahani.”
Okay- sorry about that- I thought it was you. But whoever brought it up- it was your comment about Vidya that I responded to which started this whole debate. I had no intention of comparing the two- and even if you look at my earlier comments while I was defending Vidya and her PR- I kept stating that it was improbable that Talaash was postponed due to Kahaani.
And here are my earlier comments before the whole Kahaani controversy started:
“The trade wrote off ZNMD as having niche appeal as well. The first Delhi Belly teaser did not look encouraging at all. Don’t underestimate the Aamir-Akhtar team- I’m sure they’ll plan a brilliant marketing campaign and then the star power of Aamir along with Kareena/Rani will ensure a historic opening. This looks like it will be of a much higher quality than most Bollywood action/thrillers so WOM and trending should be good. I think that it could do a 100 crore first week easily and then another 100 crores including the international Market.”
“I hope this film does well- it seems to be one of the few genuine attempts to make a good film this year.”
Does this clarify that I am not anti-Aamir, anti-Talaash or anti-men?
March 22, 2012 at 4:18 PM
@Ami
Okay madam! Peace!
You’re not anti Aamir. Such a glad news for him.
It’s not just about anti-Talaash or anti-Aamir comments. I only (sorry for repeating myself the umpteenth time!) commented at assumptions about it or mentioning Kahani along with it, even before its release, or at least an official synopsis or proper theatrical trailer.
I myself will be the first one to voice my dissatisfaction or dislike in case I don’t like the film (Talaash) or something in it. But let it release first before cooking up whole lot of assumptions about its content or its merits & comparing it in advance with films already released.
That’s all.
Of course, some people (who seem perennially frustrated with certain stars associated with Talaash) can carry on with their assumptions about the film. I’ve commented enough. Now I’ll only step aside and see how much more outlandish the assumptions about Talaash get!
March 22, 2012 at 10:06 AM
Coming to your next point.
I didn’t comment on Ra.one being copied because…where was the need? The film was being bashed, trashed, made fun of and that was more than enough I think.
Did I defend it?
Now I really don’t know what films Kahaani has been copied from, but it doesn’t really matter…. to me.
Did you talk about the various internet jokes 3I had copied from?
I enjoy the beauty of the forest rather than counting the trees, unless the forest has several diseased trees.
March 22, 2012 at 10:20 AM
Actually you defended Ra One a great deal! But I don’t want to revisit all of that here. And going by that logic we shouldn’t also praise films that everyone else is praising. Why are you doing this for Kahaani?!
March 22, 2012 at 10:26 AM
Because I’m SRK’s fan and thought enough was being said already, and was NOT trying to defend the copied part anyway.
Kahaani doesn’t involve fandom, I genuinely appreciate it because of the points mentioned.
Your constant chanting of ‘Kahaani’s story is copied …’ made me bring up Gajhani’s copying. You see
March 22, 2012 at 10:31 AM
Didn’t say it was copied. All I suggested was, and in response to this film being presented as completely new and fresh and different and so on, is that it involves a series of thematic tropes that aren’t particularly new. Nor is frankly it’s frenetic depiction of Calcutta very new given prevalent global norms in this sense. I did like the movie. That’s not the point. On Ghajini again that’s a straw man. The Memento thing is obvious. I mentioned it in my piece nonetheless. And Kahaani isn’t like Ghajini on this score. So I am not using different standards here. And again I know you liked Kahaani. That’s where you’re sincere. But when you use it to club Talaash that’s another matter!
March 22, 2012 at 10:18 AM
1)I must say that I was rather less surprised by Kahaani than you (so dramatically) were. While the film was a very welcome bit of entertainment and perhaps more I find it hard to endorse the idea that this was completely ‘unexpected’.
2)I would say that the spy thriller narrative has been incorporated into the film. In fact the film is essentially this spy thriller cum identity narrative that we have seen in very many permutations in all kinds of Hollywood films.
3)I wouldn’t compare those Hitchcock films or any others to Kahaani. Your preferences are perfectly legitimate but I just have questions about how these are framed. For example I could say ‘I like love stories, I don’t much care for war movies, hence to me the Notebook is as good as Apocalypse Now’!
4)I find it extraordinary that with each new response you continue to increase the number of possible objections you have with Talaash. A film which we know practically nothing about beyond the fact that it is a dark thriller with no songs (or only as part of the background score). Again you ‘want’ to argue against Talaash. You might like the film, I am willing to accept this, but you have pre-decided that it cannot possibly be better than Kahaani. Or because it’s an Aamir film he must not be allowed ‘first place’ in any sense.
5)Liking a film because there’s a woman playing the lead is simply ‘definitional’. In other words I too like this gesture when it comes about for its scarcity and certainly I liked some of the angles connected to this in Kahaani but I cannot say I endorse a film the moment a woman appears in it in the central part! Or to be more precise just this gesture cannot elevate this film over one with a male lead if the latter otherwise happens to be better. For example I liked Ishqiya reasonably but didn’t think it was great by any means. The more liberated woman at its center or the fact that she plays both men or whatever, all these are fine as gestures but just these don’t make Ishqiya a fantastic film. and this applies to anything else. Hollywood loves awarding films that have people with disabilities or Holocaust films and so on. Just because these things are being represented doesn’t make the cinema great. So Talaash could be a vastly superior film to Kahaani the female lead of the latter notwithstanding.
6)finally Kahaani did come with a reasonable with of anticipation. It was Balan’s first film after TDP. It had her in the lead once again. The trailers looked interesting. Obviously one can hardly expect it to come with something that’s mounted on a bigger scale and/or has a bigger star. The idea that there was ‘nothing’ in this sense isn’t something I agree with. But even if there’s lots of anticipation and lots of advertising that can hardly be held against the actual film nor can the lack thereof be a positive for a film that isn’t otherwise worthwhile. You were probably not expecting much here and were very surprised. That’s fine. But that was hardly the general perception.
In the final analysis we could keep arguing about some of these points but the central point here is that your entire response to Kahaani works through the prism of your feelings towards Aamir and hence Talaash. Since the day you’ve seen the film you’ve been unable to say much about it without saying something about Talaash. In US lingo this is called ‘pre-gaming’ (Talaash)!
We all react differently to different films. That’s fine. I am hardly objecting to your lionization of Kahaani. But the comparisons with Talaash are totally unfair based on what we know about the latter so far, not to mention the even more dubious questioning of that film’s delay as having something to do with Kahaani. I would disagree as strongly on the Hitchcock bit as well but that’s not your central claim here.
March 22, 2012 at 10:29 AM
“In other words I too like this gesture when it comes about for its scarcity and certainly I liked some of the angles connected to this in Kahaani but I cannot say I endorse a film the moment a woman appears in it in the central part! ”
but:
“With Ghajini the reason I valued this film a lot and still do is because I see it as an important attempt to rekindle a certain tradition. ”
Isn’t it the same principle? You’re more partial towards Masala movies because they are a genre you love and there are hardly any serious attempts at Masala in Bollywood these days. OG is partial to Kahaani because there are hardly any films with non-sexualized female protagonists in Bollywood.
In any case with Kahaani the idea of femininity and female power was very central to the film- so its not just a token appreciation of a rare film with a female protagonist- its about appreciating the subversive way in which the female protagonist was portrayed.
But- I agree with you that just because Kahaani had a female lead it doesn’t mean that it will be superior or better than a film with a male lead just because the female lead is rarer. And in any case- I’m still hoping that Rani and Kareena have a lot to do and it doesn’t turn out to be another case of the hero dominating every frame with the women being served up as window dressing.
March 22, 2012 at 10:55 AM
Not at all. I’ve made this point countless times including just yesterday in response to you that I don’t like most of the masala that comes out of the South even though I like the fact that they’ve kept this tradition alive. Similarly I’ve also said that I don’t like most of the Bombay attempts at masala these days even though I want these films to be made. On balance I’d rather have Bodyguard than not though I don’t watch it(!). I did like Ghajini more than just about every masala film that’s followed in its wake in Bombay. So it definitely wasn’t a case of simply endorsing a film on those grounds. And again my original piece also makes this clear. I should also repeat another point here because this too is often misunderstood. I am not ‘for’ masala as an end in itself. I just think that a certain set of questions were historically raised in this (super)genre that haven’t been replicated elsewhere. And in the absence of alternatives this is the only real model we have for those ‘formulations’ that I am interested in. But if those other options could be found I would stop insisting on masala, irrespective of my personal preferences.
March 22, 2012 at 10:30 AM
SPOILER:
I suspect the film you’re thinking about is Salt..and totally agree, there’s a definite parallel though I don’t think you mean this necessarily as a knock on Kahaani. I do agree that the ending isn’t some amazing reveal and besides this isn’t necessarily the point of what makes the movie otherwise enjoyable and interesting.
March 22, 2012 at 10:50 AM
yes this was one I had in mind.. but even otherwise this idea of to (and to paraphrase Obama) [SPOILER] ‘I am the one I am looking for’ has seen a number of Hollywood permutations including most recently in the Double. Of course Hollywood has gone that extra ‘Hegelian’ step in this sense where in a final ‘synthesis’ (to use a crude formulation for Hegel that isn’t quite justified) stage there’s another ‘flip’ and though I am ‘who’ I was looking for it turns out that the original ‘I am’ is also ‘innocent’ in some way. So one learns that Gere himself (or Jolie) is that dread agent in the Double but one eventually finds out that the figure of that dangerous agent that everyone’s looking for and that he himself is is a kind of ‘state’ fiction. Some of these elements are present in the Bourne series as well. But yes Salt is the obvious one. Ami earlier mentioned Usual Suspects. Here the common element is that an entire fiction is constructed that ‘doubles’ with the film’s plot and when at the end the fiction is revealed the plot of the film gets unraveled too. It’s not just that the mystery is cleared but that the film weirdly collapses and the reality of the film comes into question at some level.
March 22, 2012 at 10:50 AM
>I must say that I was rather less surprised by Kahaani than you
So? Should that make me retract my surprise?
>In fact the film is essentially this spy thriller cum identity narrative that **we have seen** in very many permutations in all kinds of Hollywood films.
Who *we*? Not me.
>I wouldn’t compare those Hitchcock films or any others to Kahaani.
You needn’t, but I may.
>Notebook is as good as Apocalypse Now’!
I haven’t seen either. There might be people who do think that.
>all of point 4.
Now you want to regulate my thoughts. My English is not that bad. I’ve clearly written and explained the points above….AS I SEE IT:
They are certainly not meant for you to believe/accept or anything. They are my clarifications of why I like Kahaani.
You love Amir so of course I understand you want to go on and on questioning my thoughts and preferences.
>I cannot say I endorse a film the moment a woman appears in it in the central part!
I can. But then, you are not a woman. Your thinking and appreciation of this cannot be like mine. It brought novelty for me, a different aura, a new angle from which I looked.
>You were probably not expecting much here and were very surprised.
I was.
>That’s fine. But that was hardly the general perception.
Not ONE POINT/COMMENT of mine is from the general perception.
>In the final analysis we could keep arguing about some of these points but the central point here is that your entire response to Kahaani works through the prism of your feelings towards Aamir and hence Talaash.
LOL!!
March 22, 2012 at 10:58 AM
“Who *we*? Not me.”
won’t go over the rest again but this stood out. Could I say that Ghajini is completely fresh because I’d never seen Memento or the Tamil original?
March 22, 2012 at 11:02 AM
You could, by all means.
What impact the film had on you is not for me to question.
March 22, 2012 at 11:08 AM
If you meant to use the word ‘fresh’ the way I did, then please note that the film was fresh for the reasons I’ve mentioned and unrelated to not having seen the films having similarities with Kahaani.
If I questioned your reasons for liking Gajhani there would have been another long argument, because I didn’t see the film as phoenix rising from the ashes of masala films, but rather a grotesque caricature of it.
March 22, 2012 at 12:00 PM
You guys have already done “Baal ki Khaal nikaal li hai”..Other threads need your attention!
ps – Check Korean drama “Pasta” on Netflix..
March 22, 2012 at 1:10 PM
hadn’t heard of this.. will check it out.. thanks..
March 22, 2012 at 11:16 PM
It is a TV drama..20 episodes..1 hour each…
March 22, 2012 at 12:19 PM
@Oldgold
”I am 100% sure, even without watching the film that Talaash will not deliver.”
- LOL!
Of course being an SRK fan you have to be 100% sure that Talaash ”will NOT deliver”. Your constant comparisons of Kahani and Talaash, even before Kahani’s release already gave away your preset mindset about Talaash. 
- ”I’d rather watch a woman searching around for someone than a macho man prowling around with that fierce superior frown in Talaash of something.”
- Fine! But you don’t represent even a sizeable chunk of whole movie-going audience and their mindset. Cold fact is that majority of audience will still turn out more for a male superstar’s film – even if he releases it without promotion – than a female centric film!
BTW, I wonder if your sudden surge of feminism is only pertaining to Talaash or you’d also extend it to SRK films!
[Aamir at least gives ample scope for other actors in the film, SRK ensures his films usually revolve around him! And Salman's films are only about him - even villain is reduced to a dust particle!]
”I’m sure Talaash will not be fresh (or at least not as much). We already know there is the prostitute angle with him getting seduced and we have seen a skimpily clad Kareena. How this is dealt with we have to see. Amir is very fond of kissing his heroines so perhaps there’s a seduction scene with Amir.
Whatever, regarding this it will be the same old same old….”
- LOL! LOL!!
So many assumptions about its story even without an official synopsis or proper theatrical trailer, let alone its release?! Proven that it’s a waste of time to ”debate” with you on anything related to an Aamir Khan film.
Kareena is playing a sex worker in it. So obviously she’ll be dressed like this! What else do you expect? Sarees or burqa?! If she had been playing a normal girl yet she’d been shown skimpily dressed, then that would have constituted deliberate sexual objectification of women, but NOT now, if her character is that of a sex worker!
And what ”same old”?! An SRK fan talking about ”same old” or ”fresh” stuff?!
Then what are your views about the YRF-SRK film or Chennai Express? How come you don’t vocalise ”less excitement” for them for being ”same old same old”? Whatever Talaash is, it’s going to be ”fresher” than any film which your favorite star is doing as of now!
”I know Talaash was also shot in brothels etc and may show backstreets and alleys, but it has also been shot in London (not sure if it is only the underwater scene). This one has to wait and find out.”
- For your kind information, only the underwater sequence of Talaash has been shot in London. Otherwise it has been shot at hitherto unexplored locations in Mumbai and Pondicherry. And of course, height of double standards from an SRK fan, to complain about ”shooting at foreign locations”!
”Big Budget, super stars, famous stars, foreign shootings blah blah blah… I’ve had enough. Kahaani is a much needed relief from that. It is a simple film. It was very soothng to see a normal cop as opposed to the designer cops of Dabaang, Singham, and I fear Talaash too.”
- Yeah this blah blah blah also applies to every other Khan’s film. Not just Talaash!
And what kind of reasoning is this? Every cop film has to be same as Dabangg or Singham?!
Madam some years ago, there was a slew of cop films from Sarfarosh to Kurukshetra, Indian, One 2 Ka 4 etc. Tell me if any of these films or cops in them were all same! And BTW, Aamir’s previous cop character was way less ”designer” and as close to normal as it gets, than other films of that time! Even the Talaash teaser is enough to show that he’s not going to be jumping around in air like Ajay Devgn in Singham!
”I fear Talaash too” – HAHAHA!
Even before seeing it, and despite its teaser not showing a dint of ”designer cop” stuff of Singham type, you still think it will be in similar vein? Yeah right! 
Preparing ground to compare it to Singham/Dabangg next, after comparing & trashing it in relation to Kahani! Good going!
March 22, 2012 at 12:39 PM
Hmmm
Now whose pseudonym are you?
March 22, 2012 at 3:18 PM
@Oldgold
LOL!
I am nobody’s pseudonym madam. Don’t try to change the topic. 
March 22, 2012 at 1:26 PM
Can anyone sweeten poison?
March 22, 2012 at 3:28 PM
Sanjana –hahaha
Do u ONLY deal with good one-liners
Won’t make u ‘pay’ for more lines
” A sex worker herself behaves & carries herself to pander to ”stereotypical male gaze” if I’m not mistaken. I don’t see what wrong Reema Kagti has done, if at all she has as you say, in the way she projected Kareena in the teaser.”
Prateek: quite a spirted and insightful comments there
So oldgold wonders if u have a pseudonym as well
Infact yes-now I also wonder if Prateek is a female name as well
Keep it up girl / boy
March 22, 2012 at 3:55 PM
@Alex
Huh? If someone doesn’t comment here as regularly as some of you guys do, does it mean his identity is ”suspect”? What’s with this ”girl/boy”? [I remember you'd talked like this in response to me sometime last year also, I think it was around October-November!]
Deliberately trying to change the topic ( maybe to avoid answering to my comments!
) and hence casting doubts over my id!
Use some new tricks to divert attention from topic sir ji & madam ji!
I am Prateek (not the Babbar one!
Lest someone starts thinking I’m defending my ”mentor” here! 
) and I’m a male. What else do you want? To put up my identity card or driver’s license as some proof? When did Prateek become a female name, BTW?
March 22, 2012 at 2:01 PM
@oldgold-talking about ‘srk’ and ‘freshness’- “attempting dismally to play the guitar inplace of the usual violin in his new yash raj film, is as close srk can ever get to being ‘fresh’”.kahaani was really well-done but putting it above talaash,even though we don’t anything substantial,abt the film, is being stupid.we just can’t dismiss aamir like that (even those who don’t like him).here is a man whose films have not only been huge hits but almost all of which hold a place in modern ‘pop-culture’
March 22, 2012 at 3:27 PM
@Saurabh
No use talking. She obviously seems to have made up her mind already on Talaash (her self-confessed notions about Aamir Khan notwithstanding!). Height of hypocrisy for an SRK fan to make arguments about ”freshness” for another star’s film or suddenly use cause of feminism to bash another star’s fllm (ignoring the state of females in her own favorite star’s films!).
I want to ask Oldgold if she would have said similar stuff if instead of Aamir, an SRK would’ve been doing a cop+suspense film?
As I already said Saurabh, the number of actual, genuine Kahani/Vidya Balan supporters on the net is suspect, considering how all of a sudden fans of other stars have started using her and her films to bash their own favorite stars’ rivals and their films!
It applies not only to heroes but such politics is even going on among fans of heroines (some of who are now using VB to bash Kareena Kapoor & Katrina Kaif!).
As for Aamir, it’s clear that he or his film can be judged only after its release or at least after something concrete is known about it, not on basis of mere assumptions or a 2 min teaser!
March 22, 2012 at 5:52 PM
@prateek-it’s amply clear to me that u r a boy(and to be true even i do not find this ‘pseudonym’ thing very amusing even if said jokingly).u have made a no. of intelligent points, keep doing that.u r right abt fans using’kahani/vb’ to trash aamir and uphold their own fav star.this is a sad thing because it means either ‘their star’ isn’t good enough to be defended on his/her ‘own merits’ or the fans r incapable of bringing forth those merits in a comprehensible manner. i hope,it is the 2nd probability
March 22, 2012 at 4:17 PM
Kool it Prateek babbar:-)
March 22, 2012 at 4:20 PM
@Alex
LOL!!!
I knew someone would bring Babbar here! 
March 22, 2012 at 10:15 AM
Folks…let this *debate* go. It is so boring. We should have more meaningful dialogues (at least respecting serious blog site like this one), such as how slowly and surely, the script is evolving as real hero in india (as compared to a “badshah” or “king” actor).
Kahaani’s kahaani (script) did push the envelope. For a change hero is not male and neither is a sexually attractive object (pregnant woman) and yet there is subtle romance (there is this one scene where hero had so many expressions on his face and conveys everything without speaking a single word). Why don’t we discuss scenes we liked in a movie instead of something as vague and baseless as various causes of postponement of Aamir movie (neither party knows the truth but oldgold and the opposing party act as if they know the whole truth).
March 22, 2012 at 10:23 AM
“For example I liked Ishqiya reasonably but didn’t think it was great by any means.”
hush….Satyam….!!!
“The more liberated woman at its center or the fact that she plays both men or whatever, all these are fine as gestures but just these don’t make Ishqiya a fantastic film.”
Sweety…you have left india for a very long time it seems!!!
In context of India, it is awesome movie…I would compare it to Sholey and it was just as entertaining to me!!!!
March 22, 2012 at 10:27 AM
As a punishment for saying such things this morning, Satyam, I will time you out with new release of agneepath and all the “coming off age” movies starting ZNMD, till you change your opinion on Ishquiya.
BTW: what is your take on PST.
Kahani to OG is PST to me!!!
March 22, 2012 at 1:48 PM
Shekhar Kapoor Interview-
http://www.newslaundry.com/2012/03/shekhar-kapur-on-movies-marketing-and-being-on-the-pms-advisory-board-for-innovation/
March 22, 2012 at 3:33 PM
Too many comments, too many false conjectures, too much of assumption about a film whose one teaser has given its critics a billion ideas, mostly negative.
Let the film release in November; will be wonderful to watch all critics cum hater eat crow…I am positive about this film.Aamir did a terrific cop film with Sarfarosh, simply one of his finest roles and films, a mix of art and commerce, a solid political-cop drama; expect something equally good in Talaash. Forget comparison to Kahaani-vahaani–which I liked a lot, btw; just irritated with the assumption that Talaash will be inferior to Kahaani.
NO.
March 22, 2012 at 4:02 PM
@LS
Only one person thinks it will be ”inferior” to Kahani. And ”one person” cannot influence fate or perception of a film which has to cater to an audience of a billion+ people!
March 22, 2012 at 6:07 PM
‘sarfarosh’ was terrific .initially when i saw aamir,i thought he would feel like a fish out of the water,as a cop(was apprehensive abt his body language). but boy, i was wrong,aamir nailed it.the scene where goons attack him in the hospital and he retaliates by almost catching one of them who just escapes…after that aamir gives a “laconic sort of a laugh” over there-fav scene.easily his most likeable role.also the entire script was ‘taut’.a bit better and it would have been a ‘genre-bender’.
March 22, 2012 at 4:24 PM
Hahaha
The power of ‘one’
Starring -Heroine oldgold !!!
March 22, 2012 at 4:24 PM
Hahaha ^^^
A new working title for a film
The power of ‘one’
Starring -Heroine -oldgold !!!
Villian -aamir khan
Ps–
Seems LS has stopped reading books nowadays
Only reads gossip columns
That’s y he has no good book recommendations
That’s the impact of bad company
March 22, 2012 at 5:14 PM
@Alex
Don’t put ”One” in the film’s title. Going by the fate of previous films with ”One” in their titles, this film could end up as a flop or an underperformer and you would have to resort to find ”workable reasons” to defend the fate of the film!
I don’t wish Oldgold’s debut film to flop or underperform. [Not worried about Aamir, he can't play villain though he's the nastiest and most sinister mind in the whole Indian film industry!
]
March 22, 2012 at 4:47 PM
LOL
I don’t know whether to laugh or cry at the ridiculous and uneducated deductions that are being made from my comment .
-I DID NOT SAY Talaash will be inferior to Kahaani
**I said** – I THINK * I* WILL LIKE IT LESS than kahaani giving MY reasons for it.
-My comment is MORE FOR REASONS WHY I LIKE KAHAANI than for expressing anti Talaash sentiments.
The behaviour of Amir Fans is as obnoxious as they claim SRK’s fans to be.
March 22, 2012 at 5:07 PM
@Oldgold
LOL!
”Obnoxious behaviour”? First casting doubts on identity to divert from the topic, and now calling behaviour as ”obnoxious”! Tch tch! Nothing obnoxious is happening here madam.
Anyway, if you say your comments are INDEED ”more” for your reasons why you ”like” Kahani, then I’ll believe you.
What about mentions of Singham, Dabangg and foreign locations?
Did you write it or did someone else fake your identity to write those comments? Is it obnoxious to respond to those comments? 
March 22, 2012 at 5:18 PM
That was to emphasise the NORMALCY of the cop in Kahaani.
Ask away, you or anyone, when I have the time I’ll answer and expose your warped deductions.
March 22, 2012 at 5:25 PM
Foreign locales was mentioned to glorify the alleys and backstreets of Kolkotta because of the authenticity it represented.
March 22, 2012 at 7:10 PM
Oldgolds comments vis a vis Aamir are hardly for serious consumption. It is pointless to respond. Devoid of either heft, consistency or logic, she changes the argument at the drop of a hat.
She has a right to dislike Aamir but no need to glorify the disingenuous remarks with response and least of all reason or logic as that has no place in OG’s discussion when it comes to Aamir.
March 23, 2012 at 6:30 AM
NO!!
Don’t try to use fancy words to describe/analyse a perfectly normal dislike/hate for a super star like anyone else’s including *you and Co.*
While I express it openly (like SRK) you all disguise your dislike (Most of the time) in long so called “intellectual” articles” (like Amir) , even the picture chosen to head a post on him screams of it. We behave like the star whose fans we are
In addition there is this gang attack creating such a storm in a tea cup, exaggerating and twisting and colouring my comment, pulling it in all different shapes to make it look like I’m obsessed, without logic etc etc (If I am so are you all).
I don’t mind it. It sharpens my wits and can be quite an eye opener (about many things
)…. but, it can get stale when done too often. I won’t play then. Plus it’s very time consuming. People around me are beginning to remark on the time I spend here.
March 23, 2012 at 7:16 AM
“In addition there is this gang attack creating such a storm in a tea cup, exaggerating and twisting and colouring my comment, pulling it in all different shapes to make it look like I’m obsessed, without logic etc etc (If I am so are you all).
I don’t mind it. It sharpens my wits and can be quite an eye opener (about many things
)…. but, it can get stale when done too often. I won’t play then. Plus it’s very time consuming. People around me are beginning to remark on the time I spend here.”
this one has to be the comment of the day. very smartly put, oldgod. i do not agree on any of the points u made in the debate but for this particular comment…i salute u.
March 22, 2012 at 8:20 PM
Ha
In other words-oldgold is unique
Cheers oldgold
March 22, 2012 at 11:18 PM
Probably the arrogant and no nonsense actor must have seriously insulted someone personally.
I for one wont forgive either.
Can understand and sympathise.
March 22, 2012 at 11:47 PM
And empathise.
March 23, 2012 at 8:12 AM
Aamir’s Talaash similar to Vidya’s Kahaani? – Reema speaks up
By Joginder Tuteja,March 22, 2012 – 03:29 hrs IST
#
The makers of Talaash have had enough. Ever since they declared the release of the Aamir Khan starrer from June to November this year, there have been rumours floating around the ‘real reason’ behind that. Even though producers Farhan Akhtar and Riteish Sidhwani have categorically stated that postponement of the film is to avoid clash with Aamir Khan’s TV show, rumour mongers have had a field day attributing the delay to alleged similarities with Vidya Balan’s Kahaani. However there is no truth to the story, as confirmed by the ‘woman-of-the-moment’, Reema Kagti, herself.
“Reema, who has co-written the film with Zoya Akhtar and has directed Talaash, is amused that outsiders seem to know about the film more than her. There is no similarity whatsoever between Talaash and Kahaani but somehow mischief makers are hell bent on establishing that. She was forthcoming enough to tell everyone who cared to ask that the two films were dissimilar. Still, there are some out there who are unwilling to carry the right side of affairs. They are happy to build their own assumptions and spread false stories”, says a friend of the director.
No one associated with Talaash is overtly disturbed though with such loose talk and is just letting it pass by as yet another piece of gossip that comes in and then disappears in a jiffy. Also, the makers are of a strong view that the moment film’s promotional campaign kick-starts and newer visuals are revealed, all such comparisons with Kahaani would become a story of the past.
Says Reema, “Talaash is a totally original film and it is surprising that comparisons are being made with Kahaani. When someone called to ask me about this first, I clearly stated that there was no truth to it. However, it seems people only wanted to highlight the gossip part and in the process the real truth was lost somewhere.”
She reiterates that the delay was due to Aamir’s show and there is no other reason. “In fact Talaash is completely ready and its first cut would be seen soon by Aamir. However, contrary to some other rumours floating around, there is no re-shoot happening whatsoever, least of all due to its climax being allegedly similar to that of Kahaani. Puhleeze, it’s all untrue. For the record, Talaash is totally different form Kahaani.”
When contacted, Riteish Sidhwani maintained the stance. He said, “I haven’t seen Kahaani but whatever I have read about it or caught through the promos, it is not at all like Talaash.”
Guess that would finally silence wagging tongues!
March 26, 2012 at 3:29 PM
Dhoom 3 pushed back again!
For a long time it was being debated if Aamir Khan would start Raju Hirani’s untitled film first or the much delayed Dhoom 3.
And now it is finally decided. The actor is doing the Hirani film and since he does only one film at a time, it now seems like Dhoom 3 will have to wait. Says an insider, “Aamir did not want to let go of Raju’s film. Raju wouldn’t have waited and would’ve started the film with Ranbir Kapoor.
Aditya Chopra has no choice but to wait for AK, so his dream project starring Aamir Khan, Abhishek Bachchan, Katrina Kaif and Uday Chopra has once again been pushed back.” So this means poor Katrina Kaif will not get her wish and have a film each with the reigning Khans – Aamir, Salman and Shah Rukh in the same year! We can almost hear Kareena Kapoor laughing out loud.
March 26, 2012 at 4:28 PM
was expecting this with Aamir saying he wasn’t mentally ready and Abhishek suddenly being in the news for a couple of other projects.
March 26, 2012 at 6:00 PM
wow. I can’t believe Aditya Chopra is willing to essentially wait for Aamir. I am VERY excited about Raj hirani’s movie. this is great. More excited about this one than Talaash and D3 combined.
May 8, 2012 at 1:25 PM
http://www.mumbaimirror.com/article/30/201205032012050321373612563d7bd8/%E2%80%98Instinctive-not-cautious%E2%80%99.html
The arrival of his bonny baby boy a few months ago was an event in itself. And now, in addition to Azad Rao Khan, who is quite a handful and more, Aamir Khan has Talaash, Dhoom 3 and a lot more up his sleeve. It’s a full house indeed. Over multiple rounds of piping hot tea and scrumptious snacks, Aamir Khan bares it all to Mirror.
We hear there have been differences between Reema Kagti and you. Portions of Talaash need a reshoot.
That’s not true. Reema has done a fabulous job and I am very happy with the way Talaash has shaped up. It is my home production and I want to be there for it. Since the past few months, I have been too busy with my brainchild, my TV show.
Have you delayed Dhoom 3?
I have postponed it only by a month. I was supposed to start it in June. Now I will shoot for it from July. I play a circus artiste in the film and so I need to get into shape in the remaining time, which I hope to achieve soon under a trainer who has come down from the US.
Your decision to work with Victor Acharya, whose first film Tashan bombed, has surprised many people. What are your thoughts?
I worked with Ashutosh Gowariker in Lagaan but he had also directed Pehla Nasha and Baazi. Rakeysh Mehra hadn’t done well before Rang De Basanti happened. Success and failure is not in our hands. Victor may have gone wrong in Tashan but he is very talented. He has a very fine creative sensibility.
Rajkumar Hirani would have cast Ranbir Kapoor in Peekay had you refused it. But you went on to shatter Ranbir’s dreams…
(Laughs) Why would I not work with Hirani? We start Peekay in December.
We hear you took lessons in swimming for the underwater scenes in Talaash?
I had to do it. I didn’t know swimming at all. I learnt it at a five-star hotel pool. In fact, it took me a long time to get it right. Two full months to be precise.
The way you think before uttering every word, you must be also thinking before every move in the pool.
(Laughs) No. In fact, I react instinctively. I was asked to host a game show. What could be safer than that? If I was treading with caution, wouldn’t I have taken it up?
But you come across as someone who thinks before his every move. It is said that aapka dimaag bahut chalta hai…
(Smiles) I might appear like that. Go by my actions, not by my words (winks). Aur dimaag chalna koi buri baat toh nahin hai na?
Only news you want to share finds it way to the media. For instance, news about the IVF surrogacy came only when you were ready. Comments please?
One day, I shall tell you how I manage to keep things under wraps. But that isn’t going to be today.
But you surprised us by publicly admitting that Kiran and you opted for IVF surrogacy.
Had I done something wrong that I should have hidden it? We are very proud of the whole thing. She had a number of miscarriages. We realised that her uterus lining is very thin for her to carry the baby for nine months. Which is why we opted for this method. Biologically, the baby is ours.
That you are fond of Tiger Shroff is the talk of town.
Tiger is a fine guy with a fabulous physique. If I can find material where I can offer him work, I would be happy. Jackie is so warm. He and Ayesha are family to me. But honestly, Tiger doesn’t need me to become an actor.
Do you think ten years down the line, the likes of Imran Khan, Ranbir Kapoor and Shahid Kapoor will have the kind of fan following you, Shah Rukh and Salman do even at this juncture in your careers?
They are extremely talented and get lots of appreciation.
I am talking about the euphoria that you three Khans generate.
Mera kya euphoria tha early days mein? Abhi bhi nahin hai. Main bas ghodagiri kar raha hoon.
Are you refusing to admit that you are No.1?
I am not No.1. Salman is. Look at his fan following and you will know what I mean.
We hear Kiran and you are looking for a new place in Bandra. When are you shifting?
For now, I have dropped the idea to move into a new house. I want to continue staying where I am.
Of late, Junaid has been in the news. Does he plan to become a hero?
Not that I know of. Whatever he wants to do in life, Reena and I will support him all the way.
What’s Kiran working on?
She was working on a subject but she is not emotionally ready to continue with it, at least for sometime. Right now, she is enjoying motherhood with Azad. Waise this question should be addressed to her and not me. Main kuch bolunga toh joote padenge.
Why is it that every married man speaks exactly like this about the wife?
(Laughs) Why should I be scared of her? I love her. Why should she be scared of me? She loves me. While I directed Taare Zameen Par, I think her film Dhobi Ghat makes me even more proud.
TZP reminds me of Amol Gupte. Will you forgive him? And Chetan Bhagat too?
Who am I to forgive them?
If you bump into them someday?
(Pauses) I wish them well in life.
May 19, 2012 at 10:07 PM
A bizarre story suggesting Shirish Kunder is re-working Inception (!) with Aamir in mind. I guess Kunder figured since Aamir was already in a Nolan remake, he’d look past the director on this!
http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/Bollywood/Aamir-Khan-in-desi-Inception/Article1-858089.aspx
May 19, 2012 at 10:41 PM
Kunder might need Inception like miracles to get Aamir to sign on!
May 21, 2012 at 3:18 AM
even then he might just get skr not aamir
May 21, 2012 at 3:20 AM
aamir can directly hire nolan i believe – for the same or another script – why work with kunder guy???
May 21, 2012 at 3:11 AM
http://daily.bhaskar.com/article/ENT-exclusive-aamir-shot-talaash-climax-secretly-3275649.html Aamir Reshoots Talaash Climax !! Yet another Rumour..or TRUTH? The Answer Lies Within ;p