Rahman scores musical best

Ace composer AR Rahman's Azhagiya Thamizh Magan, his second Tamil album of the year after Sivaji that broke all records, has also become a hit.

Though it is not as good as the first one, but it disappeared from the market within moments of its arrival! That's the Rahman magic.

The award winning composer has himself lent voice to the opening number of the film that introduces the hero.

But there is one disappointing thing in the album that the gifted composer has fallen into the trap of remixes. One of the songs in the album is a remix of another popular Tamil song.

Rahman has used a lot of variations in the album including Hindustani classical, folk number with fast rhythm.

Courtesy: NDTVMusic.com

Rahman's 'qawwali' dropped from JODHAA AKBAR

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It may come as a shock to many that a spectacular 'qawwali' by the maestro, A R Rahman, has been dropped from Ashutosh Gowariker and UTV's republic week release, JODHAA AKBAR.

The traditional 'qawwali', from the movie that features the 'Indian Greek God', Hrithik Roshan and timeless beauty Aishwarya (Rai) Bachchan, had been extravagantly picturised, a while back. The music director of the magnum opus, A R Rahman, informs that it was a mutually agreed decision, as there was no situational demand.

Rahman also has interesting information regarding the above mentioned 'qawwali'. As per the composer, so impressed is Aishwarya Bachchan with the composition that she wants to use it in her next project/movie.

Well, for now we can only wait and watch whether Ashutosh concedes to the demand of the Bachchan 'bahu'!

Courtesy: glamsham.com

China grooves to Rahman hit

Yes. It is a fact that A R Rahman’s music has now become a rage in China. The fact remains that Rahman hasn't composed music for any Chinese film. Yet, his music has been used by Taiwanese singer Kelly Poon in her latest album. It is a known fact that Rahman had composed music for the Arjun-Manisha Koirala starrer 'Mudalvan'. Shakalaka baby song from this film was a huge hit in India when the film released. Now, the same song has the Chinese youngsters grooving to Rahman’s music.

Courtesy: IndiaGlitz.com

Sabesh-Murali covers for Rahman

Amidst continuing confusion of whether it might make it to Deepavali, Azhagiya Tamil Magan team has been working round the clock to wrap it up and present it to Vijay's fans for the festival season. Few special effects, color corrections and graphics are pending in addition to background score.

There seems to be some financial trouble too, which insiders feel will be resolved just in time. As everyone is aware of, A R Rahman scores music for the film and the songs tuned in by him are already a rage with the youth. There were also reports that the maestro had started working on the re-recording at his studio in Chennai. But now comes the news that the mantle has been passed over to Sabesh & Murali. Rahman's schedule being tight as usual, would have meant a delay in the proceedings. Hence to enable a timely release, the crew after getting the permission from Rahman and South Indian film musicians Association, has sought the help of Sabesh and Murali to help them with the background score. The musician duo also seems to have agreed. Rahman or the ATM crew could not be reached to confirm the news. Courtesy: Behindwoods.com

Get set go! for Kamal

Close on the heels of completing 'Dasavatharam', Kamal Haasan has reportedly commenced works for his next film. A mega-budget movie, it would be produced by Reliance Adlabs. Reports suggest that the movie has been titled 'Marmayogi' and it would be directed by Kamal Haasan himself. Touted to be an historical adventure film, 'Marmayogi' will have musical score by A R Rahman. Interestingly, it was the title of MGR's film released in 1951. Courtesy: Indiaglitz.com

A R Rahman debuts on small screen

A R Rahman has announced his willingness to join with UN and Endemol Productions, a production company working for a new Hindi television channel, to launch a show called Mission Ustaad. This will be an enlightening musical show to be launched on channel 9x which is planning to go on air by November. Developed to create awareness on the UN's Millennium Development Goals, the creators of the show believe that music unifies the human race and will hence prove the right vehicle to spread awareness for a good cause. A.R. Rahman, with a reputation for being socially and patriotically inclined, will prove the ideal mascot for the show which will feature some of the best entertainers from India. Rahman had already worked with the UN and composed an anthem on poverty and the underprivileged through his 'Pray For Me Brother'. “I am convinced that the partnership will bring about the desired awakening among Indian viewers, and the show will touch the hearts of the nation in a very entertaining manner,” Rahman said in a statement. Salil Shetty, director of United Nations Millennium Campaign who is planning the show holds the view that for the marginalized people of India like the Dalits and adivasis (tribals), minorities, the goals offer a real hope to achieve better education, health and livelihoods. Mission Ustad will act as a reminder that time is running out. Courtesy: IndiaGlitz.com

Now Lara to judge

BOLLYWOOD beauties seem to enjoy judging reality shows. After Ishaa Koppikar (Nach Baliye 3) and Urmila Matondkar (Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 2), it’s Lara Dutta’s turn.Lara will join A R Rahman to judge a mega musical show to be launched on Peter Mukerjea’s upcoming channel, 9X. The bi-weekly show is titled Mission Ustad. Ten singers will participate to provide engrossing musical entertainment for a cause. Mission Ustad has been put together by the United Nations, Endemol and 9X.
A source from Endemol confirms that Lara has agreed to be a part of the jury. “Lara will sign the papers in a day or two. She has loved the concept and the format of the show. It will be great to have her on the show,” he says.
There will be three judges. The third judge will be someone who is judging Nach Baliye 3 or Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 2, or has judged Indian Idol 3.
“That person is under some contract with another channel. So it would be unfair to divulge his/her name now,” the source adds.
Rajesh Kamat, Managing Director, Endemol India, does not deny Lara’s inclusion. “I can’t reveal the format of the show, but I can tell you that there will be no eliminations. The end result will be that all the singers will come to make a music album together,” he says.
“Mission Ustad will not only entertain but also enlighten. It will have a message,” Kamat adds.
Indrani Mukerjea, Promoter & Group Executive Director, INX Media, explains the message which will be driven home. “Besides entertaining millions of viewers on 9X, Mission Ustad will communicate the essence of the Millennium Development Goals across the length and breadth of the country,” she says.

Courtesy: thepost.com.pk

Rahman rocks in ATM

	Get Movies updates: What's this? Advertisement Latest MP3 Player, Ipod prices. Compare features of all MP3 player brands & get best deals in your city. Find all MP3 player brands here Running a business? Advertise on Rediff.com and get more customers for your business. Big results with small budgets. Leave a message, we�ll contact you. 5Rediff P4C Classifieds After the huge success of Sivaji, A R Rahman is back with another Tamil album, a rarity these days. Naturally much hope has been pinned on the music score for Azhagiya Tamizh Magan (ATM) starring Ilayathalapathy Vijay, who is described as the heir to the 'Super Star'. Interestingly, the heroine of this film is also Shriya, Rajni's heroine in Sivaji. Bogged down by heavy financial setbacks, Malayalam film producer Sargachithra Appachan has turned to Tamil films for a lifeline. Azhagiya Tamizh Magan with Vijay as the hero marks his foray into Tamil filmdom. The maverick composer himself has lent his voice to the opening number introducing the hero Ellapugazhum. The piece which is also the title track has lyrics by Valee who draws inspiration from Vijay's sobriquet Ilaya Dalapathy. The lyrics project not a larger than life of the protagonist but a logical and believable one. The smooth flow of Ballaielakka in Sivaji is missing here. The forceful chorus as a parallel track gives it added energy. Still instrumental pyrotechniques and Rahman's powerful and aggressive rendition changing the pitch and timbre make this a track suitable for the palate of today's youth and die-hard Vijay fans. It is a pity that the gifted Rahman has also fallen into the remix trap. Ponmagal Vanthal is a remix of the popular song, Ponmagan Vanthan, written by Alangudi Somu and rendered by veteran singer T M Sounderarajan (from the film, Sorgam, a Sivaji Ganesan-starrer in 1970). Rendered by Benny Dayel and Ujjayinee, this track with modern sound designs like rap and English lyrics, is the only jarring note in this otherwise rocking number. The following Nee Marilyn Monroe [Images] has all the potential to be a sure-shot chartbuster. Arranged in Western style the number begins and ends in a light-hearted manner with giggling and pleasing alapana by Ujjayinee. The fire in Ujjayinee's voice is perfect foil for Benny Dayel's nasal twang. Na Muthukumar's lyrics like one day mattum girl-friend aaga varaya? (Will you be my girlfriend for just one day?) project the ephemeral nature of modern day love. Nee nadaswaram pola vandha (valayappatti) by Naresh Iyer, Ujjayinee and Madhumitha is fast paced yet melodious. The lenghthy swara spells give it a classical touch. Naresh Iyer's fast paced rendition in full steam is well complemented by the teasing and playful velvetty vocals of Ujjayinee and Madhumitha. Kudos to Na Muthukumar for his lyrics; simple and full of quaint imagery. Kelamal kayyile by Sriram Parthasarathy and Sainthavi is another melodious number in the same genre as Nee nadaswaram pola vandha with a Hindusthani touch in certain places. The song has an old world charm. Thamarai's lyrics are as usual oozing with soft sentiments. But deployment of various instruments make the lyrics get drowned and lose clarity. Rahman signs off with Madhuraikku pogathadee by Benny Dayel, Archith and Darshana, a song and dance scenario with the newlyweds being received into the family. It is a folk number with fast rhythm and splendid chains of nadaswaram sallies. Pa Vijay's lyrics are simple yet remarkable with many layers of meaning; the lass is warned against going to Madhurai because the jasmine flowers there will cast eyes on her! Is there a more subtle way to describe a girl's beauty? Rahman rocks once again. Rediff Rating: Courtesy: Rediff.com

ATM confirmed for Diwali!

Now that the audio is released, Vijay's Azhagiya Tamil Magan will positively make it for Diwali. The producer 'Swargachitra' Appachan has preponed the release by a day from November 8 (Diwali Day) to November 7, stumping all the doubting people in the trade who were saying that the film will be postponed! Appachan after consulting a leading Kerala astrologer has gone for November 7, a more auspicious day being Pradosham. ATM is likely to open worldwide with around 410 prints. The re-recording of ATM is going on at A.R Rahman's Panchathan Record-Inn in Chennai, along with the composition of the stage adaptation of JRR Tolkien's 'Lord of the Rings' music. Rahman has promised to complete the entire re-recording and mixing by November 1, so that it can be censored by November 2 or 3. Pyramid Saimira, the distributors of ATM is going to start a pre-release campaign, once the music of the film becomes more popular."

Courtesy: Sify.com

Aamir Khan to produce a psychological thriller?

Aamir Khan is said to be captivated by a script that he apparently intends to produce into a film. If reports are to be believed, the reclusive Khan is thinking of producing a psychological thriller called ‘Seven Hours’. As the title suggests, the film’s story will span seven hours in the life of the characters. It is learnt that Aamir wants director A R Murugadoss to direct the film. Aamir is currently working in Murugadoss’s Hindi adaptation of Tamil hit Ghajini . The superstar is impressed by Murugadoss’s directorial skills and his vision as a director. Reports say Aamir is keen to have A R Rahman as the film’s music director. Aamir sat with Rahman during the composition of songs for the ‘Ghajini’ remake and was full of admiration for the talented composer. Aamir himself is expected to play the lead role in the film. However, work on ‘Seven Hours’ will begin in full swing after Aamir is through with the ‘Ghajini’ remake. Presently, Aamir is working on the background score of his next production Taare Zameen Pe ."

Courtesy: ApunKaChoice.com

Rahman’s second tryst with the UN

A R Rahman is returning to the small screen and this time the maestro back for a musical show “Mission Ustad.” The show, a joint venture between the United Nations and production house Endemol, will feature some of the best entertainers in the country. Mission Ustad will be on air on the new Hindi entertainment channel 9X.
A R Rahman

It aims at spreading awareness about the United Nations’ Millennium Development Goals (MDG).

Rahman in his press address said: “I am delighted to be part of 'Mission Ustad' on 9X. Many eminent names from the entertainment industry will join me on the show. I am convinced that the partnership will bring about the desired awakening among Indian viewers, and the show will touch the hearts of the nation in a very entertaining manner.”

Rajesh Kamat, who heads the entertainment channel, 9X, said that music was the only universal language that could reach and bind everyone. They felt this effort was very important and if India didn’t achieve the MDG by 2015, which aims at alleviating the lives of the socially marginalized, it would be detrimental to India’s future. When it comes to serving a cause, Rahman is one person you can count on. His earlier stint with the UN composing an anthem for poverty was another noteworthy effort.

Courtesy: Behindwoods.com

ATM soars!

Finally the audio of the much-awaited Azhagiya Tamil Magan is out and as soon as it hit the stands it disappeared from the shelves. Audio stores were open early and CD’s and cassettes sold like hot cakes. Reports suggest yesterday was a great day for Vijay’s fans as the audio of the ATM was out.

According to the reports the response to the audio ranges from great to mediocre and that isn’t new for Rahman’s albums. It is an assorted album that has something for everyone. Exact sales figures are not available yet but media reports suggest record sales. With the movie’s release date still remaining a mystery, the audio comes as the only form of solace for Vijay’s fans. Look out for our audio review, that’ll be up soon.

Courtesy: Behindwoods.com

A R Rehman to debut on 9X with 'Mission Ustaad'

Music director A R Rehman, the United Nations and Endemol have partnered with the soon-to-be-launched Hindi general entertainment channel, 9X, for an entertaining show titled 'Mission Ustaad', which will provide engrossing musical entertainment for a cause.

Indrani Mukerjea, Promoter & Group Executive Director, INX Media, said: "It gives us great pleasure to partner with A R Rehman, the United Nations and Endemol India to present this unique show on Indian television. Besides entertaining millions of viewers on 9X, 'Mission Ustaad' will communicate the essence of the Millennium Development Goals across the length and breadth of the country. We are confident that along with the rest of the line-up of the forthcoming programmes on 9X, 'Mission Ustaad' will truly capture the hearts of the Indian viewers."

A R Rehman said, "I am delighted to be part of 'Mission Ustaad' on 9X. Many eminent names from the entertainment industry will join me on the show. I am convinced that the partnership between 9X, the UN and Endemol will bring about the desired awakening among Indian viewers, and 'Mission Ustaad' will touch the hearts of the nation in a very entertaining manner."

Maxine Olson, UN Resident Coordinator said: "We want to make poverty history through awareness and action around the MDGs. We believe 'Mission Ustaad', our joint endeavour, will inspire millions to action and thereby fulfill every Indian's right to decent work, education and good health."

Rajesh Kamat, Managing Director, Endemol India, remarked: "Music is a universal language that binds people together irrespective of their nationality, religion or economic stature. With 'Mission Ustaad', we get the opportunity to reach out to our audiences and involve them in key issues using music as a binding factor. We are excited to partner 9X, the UN and Rehman on this distinct show that promises not just to entertain but also to enlighten!"

Salil Shetty, Director, United Nations Millennium Campaign, added, "If India does not achieve the MDGs by 2015, the world will not achieve them. For the marginalized people of India - the Dalits, the adivasis, the minorities, as particularly women - the Goals offer a real hope to achieve better education, health and livelihoods. 'Mission Ustaad' will act as a reminder that time is running out."

For the record, INX Media, along with INX News, is part of the INX Network, which is dedicated to producing quality television that will appeal to Indian viewers globally. INX Media will shortly launch 9X, a Hindi General Entertainment Channel, and 9XM, a Hindi Music Channel for youth. INX News will launch NewsX, an English News Channel, early next year.

Courtesy:Televisionpoint.com

Cate Blanchett delivers splendid performance in “The Golden Age”

In "Elizabeth: The Golden Age," director Shekhar Kapur and his crew almost succeed in exploiting the film's positive assets to cover up its flaws. By and large, the movie's obvious splendor overshadows an entire chain of plot holes and missteps, unless you look closely enough and manage to resist the pompous soundtrack and the dazzling camerawork. Yes, they nearly got you fooled.

A follow-up to 1998's award-winning "Elizabeth," which focused on the early years of the reign of Elizabeth I of England, "The Golden Age" centers on the complex relationship between the Virgin Queen (Cate Blanchett), a devout Protestant, and Sir Walter Raleigh (Clive Owen), an adventurer who traveled to the New World and is seeking approval to return and colonize the fertile land.

Although intrigued by the man's storytelling and his respect for his motherland, the Queen is forced to devote her attention to multiple challenges risking to drive her to insanity. For once, Mary Stuart (Samantha Morton), a Roman Catholic and longtime enemy of Elizabeth, is orchestrating a plot to assassinate the Queen. At the same time, Spanish King Philip II (Jordi Molla) is deploying his Armada in an attempt to wage holy war against England and restore it to Catholicism.

To those seeking the solid character study and consistent plot that made the first film so brilliant, "The Golden Age" should be no more than a disappointment. Clocking in at 114 minutes, the movie struggles to cover a horde of historical events surrounding Elizabeth I, but eventually fails to explore them in depth. Instead, the plot is a confusing one, with new characters coming and going at a fast rate, and scenes constantly switching between England and Spain, and between the Queen's palace and numerous other locations.

In short, the structure of the plot is at times bewildering and hard to follow, especially during the second part of the film when the Armada approaches the English coast and the movie repetitively jumps from interesting dialogue to loud and hasty battle sequences. By good fortune, the first hour of the film is neatly organized and provides a solid and compelling insight into Elizabeth's at times fragile psyche and her durable faith.

As I mentioned earlier, the film's collection of memorable aspects almost mask the chaos that reigns over the script. Besides great costumes and a fantastic set decoration, "The Golden Age" is a beautifully filmed drama in which nearly every scene is strengthened by a masterful score composed by Craig Armstrong and A.R. Rahman. The pomposity becomes a little excessive toward the end, although it works well for the sake of the entertainment level for most of the movie.

The real driving force behind the film is Cate Blanchett, who delivers an absolutely flawless performance as Elizabeth I. She was nominated for an Academy Award for "Elizabeth" in 1999 but didn't win, and it wouldn't surprise me if she made the list again next year. Assisting her are Clive Owen, who does a satisfying job playing the handsome womanizer, and Geoffrey Rush, who reprises his role as the stern Sir Francis Walsingham.

With "Elizabeth: The Golden Age," Shekhar Kapur has put together an above-average sequel to a first-class costume drama. The result would probably have been a better one had screenwriters Michael Hirst and William Nicholson only devoted more effort to the script, but if you are willing to overlook their faults, this journey inside of the mind of a fearless Queen is indeed, a compelling one.

Rating: B

Courtesy: Tnjn.com

'Azhagiya Tamil Magan' audio from today

Considered as the 'Mozart of Asia,' A R Rahman, the gem music director of India is all set to rock Kollywood after 'Sivaji' with 'Azhagiya Tamil Magan'.

The audio of the Vijay starrer will be released on Monday.

Mean while, the singer-composer has his hands full with a lot of films, the latest being Ashutosh Gowarikers 'Jodha Akbar' starring Hrithik Roshan and Aishwariya Rai Bachchan.

'Azhagiya Tamil Magan' is directed by Bharathan and produced by Appachan. Shriya plays his lady love in the movie. The movie has half-a-dozen songs which includes a retune of yesteryear hits from Sivaji's film.

The audio is available exclusively on Raaga.com . Vijay and Rahman coming together has created excitement among the music-lovers.

Courtesy: IndiaGlitz.com

Vijay to celebrate a mute Deepavali with Ajith

	We are getting reports that this time around Vijay may have to be content with watching films of other stars with his Azhagiya Tamil Magan most likely to give it a miss this Deepavali. The movie's post-production and some visual effects works are still underway, and with A R Rahman yet to score the back ground music,
Chances of ATM's release this festive season looks bleak. Perhaps, this is a first of sorts for Vijay, who seldom misses out on an opportunity like this. Ajith's fans too are in for a disappointed as the Billa team and the distributors Saimira has decided against releasing it for the festive season to avoid a clash with ATM. With these two movies playing spoilsport, Deepavali this time around is turning out to be a damp squib with only Polladhavan ready to hit the theatres along with Vel, which is racing against time to make it on time. Not much to rejoice for Vijay's fans, the audio release should keep them occupied till then or will it end up adding to the curiosity? Let's wait and watch. Courtesy: Behindwoods.com

Himesh takes on Rahman

Himesh Reshammiya's acting debut Aap Kaa Surroor has been nominated in three categories for the Bollywood Music Awards.

Reshammiya will compete with A R Rahman (Guru), Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy (Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna), Pritam (Dhoom: 2) and Jatin Lalit (Fanaa) for the award of Best Music Director, CEO of Bollywood Awards Kamal Dandona announced on October 17.

The nominations have been based on the preference expressed by Non Resident Indians in a poll conducted over last several weeks.

Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna [Images], Dhoom: 2, Omkara and Don have been nominated in two categories each.

Competing for the best male singers will be Himesh Reshammiya (Yeh Tera Mera Milna-Aap Kaa Surroor), Sukhvider Singh (Omkara-Omkara), Sukhbir (Dil Laga-Dhoom 2), Shaan (Main Hoon Don-Don) and Sonu Nigam [Images] (Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna-Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna).

Alisha Chinoy (It's Rocking-Kya Love Story Hai), Sunidhi Chauhan [Images] (Beedi-Omkara), Shreya Ghosal (Barso Re Megha-Guru), Chinmayee Keerthi (Maiya Maiya-Guru) and Alka Yagnik (Salaam-Umrao Jaan) have been nominated for best female singer.

For best song, Sunidhi Chauhan (Dhoom Machale-Dhoom 2), Himesh Reshammiya [Images] (Joot Nahi Bolna-Aap Kaa Surroor), Alisha Chinoy (It's Rocking-Kya Love Story Hai), Shaan (Main Hoon-Don) and Keerthi Chunmayee (Maiya Maiya-Guru) will compete.

The Bollywood music awards will be held on November 17 at a glittering star-studded ceremony at Trump Taj Mahal Casino in Atlantic City in New Jersey.

Courtesy: Rediff.com

Rahman is a busy bee

A R Rahman is now going places. A busy composer in Tamil and Hindi, Rahman is now scoring music for Shekar Kapoor's 'Elizabeth- the Golden Age', where he pairs up with Hollywood actor Craig Armstrong, he is very excited. 'It has been really a wonderful experience working with Craig', says Rahman. 'We traveled a lot in places like Glasgow...remotely working with the guys in London,' says Rahman. Some of he ongoing projects of Rahman include Ashutosh Gowariker’s 'Jodha Akbar' starring Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai and Subhash Ghai's 'Yuvaraj'. Rahman's songs in Rajnikanth starrer 'Sivaji-The Boss' was a blockbuster hit in Kollywood. The film is being dubbed in Hindi and Rahman is eagerly awaiting to see the response for 'Sivaji's' songs in Hindi. 'After a long time, I have decided to dub my songs in Hindi. I had almost stopped dubbing in Hindi but this time I am convinced that it will do well. The music is ready and will be released soon,' he says. Courtesy: IndiaGlitz.com

ATM release postponed!

Vijay fans were in for a disappointment on Monday when they flocked the audio shops expecting to get the CDs of Azhagiya Thamizh Magan. According to industry sources, the audio is expected to hit the stalls on the 22nd of October. It is likely to be released in Malaysia on the 19th. We hear that the delay is due to heavy plans involved in organizing an audio launch function.

Initially the team had planned to release the audio sans any function but felt it was needed, considering the expectations the movie has generated. And with Diwali fast approaching, they intend to somehow release the audio well in advance so as to keep the curiosity alive. This Vijay-A R Rahman combo is one of the much-awaited audio releases in the recent times. The fans are curious to see the dancing sensation shake his legs to the tunes of the Mozart of Madras. Sivaji has set the stage for the comeback of A R Rahman amongst Tamil audiences and ATM has raised the expectations even higher. Let’s see if they get their timing right this time around. Behindwoods will be out with review soon. Courtesy: Behindwoods.com

The much awaited Jodha Akbar

From Ashutosh Gowariker, the director of the Oscar nominee Lagaan and the critically acclaimed Swades, comes this big-budget extravaganza Jodha Akbar. This mammoth production of the epic love story, between the Mughal Emperor Jallaludin Akbar and the Rajput Princess Jodha, has been one of Bollywood's much-awaited movies.

Hrithik Roshan plays Akbar while Aishwarya Rai plays Jodha in this film with music by none other than A R Rahman. The movie was slated for an October 12, EID weekend release but was later postponed to January 25 due to delay in post production and visual effects.All those present at the Sathyam Cinemas on October 12th were in for a surprise as they got to see its trailer. The trailer received accolades from all quarters, and has managed to generate enough buzz about the movie - even to those who weren't aware of it. Those who saw the trailer were all awe about the scale of production and the Marhaba song played in the background. Guess Bollywood has mastered the art of making great trailers; let's hope the movie lives up to its expectations Courtesy: Behindwoods.com

ATM audio release

Vijay fans now have a reason to rejoice as their Ilaya Thalapathy’s much-awaited Azhagiya Tamizh Magan is going to hit the screens on Diwali. The film happens to have generated enough curiosity as it marks the coming together of A R Rahman and Vijay. Though the pair had worked together earlier for Udhaya, it did not create an impact due to its delayed release.

ATM on the other hand has been announced with much fanfare as Vijay pairs up with Shriya for the first time. And this is her first release after Sivaji, which has gone as per schedule. The final cut is being readied and theatres have also been blocked. The movie’s brisk pace is evident from the audio release date, which was announced recently. Rahman who has scored all the tunes and the audio is to hit the stores on 15th October. They have got their timing right! With just three weeks ahead of its release in theatres, it is just about enough time for Rahman’s tunes to grow on its listeners. The movie has five songs and sources say Vijay has crooned a number for this movie; the release of the CD’s should put an end to all this guessing!"

Courtesy: Behindwoods.com

Rahman’s Golden age has come

Not long ago, we heard that Rahman was composing songs for Shekar Kapur’s Elizabeth-the Golden Age. The movie was screened at the recently concluded Toronto International Film Festival, and is said to have received rave reviews. Elizabeth-the Golden Age released yesterday, received accolades from the critics, and some went on to say it is one the finest epic films in recent times.

The battle sequences were stunning, and according to some critics its visuals appear like a painting coming alive. What is heart warming is the fact that A R Rahman’s musical score has come in for a special mention. “A musical score by Craig Armstrong and A R Rahman is virtually a character in itself, huffing and puffing through nearly every scene, provoking tension and calling characters to action,” says the Hollywood Reporter. Chennaiites will have to wait a while before they can be witness to all the grandeur, as the movie is not going to hit the screens any time soon, for the restless souls there are trailers available on the net.

Courtesy: Behindwoods.com

Chinese plagiarism hurts Rahman

Gone are the days when Indian musicians composed music albums drawing inspiration from other sources. It's time now for us to share the limelight. Not so long ago, lovers of international music would come up with the name of the original version as soon as they heard an Indian film song; and this is not confined to Tamil songs alone. Now it is the other way round.

With the advent of the internet and the likes of Rahman at the helm of Indian music, it has been ensured that their tunes reach far and wide. This deserves special mention as it has not only spread our music across the continents but has even created awareness about Indian music in general. On the flip side, it has also ended up as 'inspiration' for other music composers. This is true in China where popular Taiwanese singer Kelly Poon has recorded Rahman's 'Shakalaka Baby' in her latest album, in Mandarin. Yao Chien, the composer and producer of the album claims his company, Ursa Major, has sought permission from Universal music, which takes care of the copyrights for Rahman's works. Kelly Poon on the other hand had stated that if she were to take the legal route to obtain the rights for the tune, it would have been tough to release the album. She added: "As it is a popular Indian song, I am just adapting the song and introducing it in China." Kelly might have her intentions right; just that the law happens to take a different view. Kelly Poon was a Project Superstar Champion 2005, a reality competition for singers across China, which is similar to the Indian TV show, Super Singer. This number especially has catapulted her to the status of singing sensation among the Chinese. So much for what was not hers! As for Rahman, he wasn't available for any comments. Guess success comes with its share of problems.

Courtesy: Behindwoods.com

Jodhaa Akbar, a preview

There was a buzz in the air.

And this time it was neither Shah Rukh Khan's Om Shanti Om nor Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Saawariya causing the stir.

Rather, it was Ashutosh Gowarikar's Jodhaa Akbar, which was about the epic love story between Emperor Akbar and a certain Rajput princess, that was causing a stir at the Adlabs theatre in Mumbai's Film City.

The occasion? The director was hosting the first ever preview of his huge film, starring Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. Jodhaa Akbar is scheduled for release on January 25.

Judging from the preview, the film holds a lot of promise. The promos sees Hrithik dressed in various avatars of the Emperor with A R Rahman's song, Marhaba, playing in the background. One scene sees him taming an elephant, while another sees meeting Ash for marriage.

Ash, on the other hand, doesn't speak much and is shown dressed in fine bridal wear, getting ready for her grand wedding.


Speaking about the film, Ashutosh said he did not focus completely on history though he has taken care not to hurt the religious sentiments of people.
"It is not history, but the epic romance of Jodhaa and Akbar," Ashutosh explains. Asked if the film would be in the league of the classic, Mughal-E-Azam, Ashutosh quipped, "This love story came first in history; then Mughal-E-Azam followed." He also brushed aside the fact that Hrithik hardly looked anything like Emperor Akbar; he simply looked like Hrithik Roshan "Hrithik looked like Hrithik in Krrish. In my film, he looks like Emperor Akbar," he said.




Haider Ali (actor in the popular television serial, Nukkad) was the one who came to me with the script of Jodhaa Akbar, after Lagaan," Ashutosh continued. "I loved it and wanted to do it but didn't have the time then. So I did Swades first."
But making Jodhaa was easier said than done for Ashutosh as he had to take the requisite permissions, and also do a lot of legwork before the film shoot. "I had to do a lot of homework," he said. "I met some historians like Irfan Habib of Aligarh Muslim University and also attended seminars to know more about the subject before I decided to make the film." The film, which will portray 15 years of the life of the emperor, has five songs. The music will be released on November 27.
Courtesy: Rediff.com

Great news for Surya's fans

All of Surya's fans are waiting in bated breath for his upcoming Diwali release Vel. It's been more than a year since they have had glimpses of their favorite hero. This comes as a pleasant surprise as his fans were all disappointed with the delay of Goutham Menon's magnum Opus Vaaranam Aayiram.

But there is good news, Goutham who recently decided to shoot a quickie "Chennaiyil Oru Mazhaikaalam", during the time Surya was not available for VA, is done with its first schedule. The entire schedule was completed in Ramoji Rao film city in Hyderabad. Now with Vel being wrapped and Surya available, he has decided to switch to VA from Chennayil'. Goutham plans to work on both the projects simultaneously with Chennayil being expected to be completed sooner. Goutham's fans too are waiting to see his next release, as both have big names associated with them, Goutham-Rahman combo with Trisha in the lead on one side and the successful trio of Goutham-Surya-Harris on the other. Courtesy: Behindwoods.com