Exclusive Interview: Honor Society on New Album and Touring With Jonas Brothers

Honor Society exclusively tell AceShowbiz about what they have to offer in their upcoming debut studio album "Fashionably Late". Also, this band share what it was like to hit the road with Jonas Brothers and what part they have in "Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakuel" film.

The band, who want to work with Jordin Sparks for a future collaboration, are set to release their first studio project in United States on September 15. In a bid to promote the effort, they will travel across the country for a roadshow, starting from September 13 to December 31.

ASB: How did you guys band together?

Honor Society: Initially, Michael Bruno and Jason Rosen were friends who had wanted to start a band. We all met through a series of mutual friends. It really was like all the pieces fell into place once we all met. We knew right away that this was who the band was going to be.

ASB: You chose to name your band Honor Society. Any special meaning to this?

Honor Society: The name was chosen because we think it best describes the brotherhood of our band both as friends and musicians. It's also a cool way for us to include our friends and fans. We want people to think that they can also be part of Honor Society.

ASB: How did you land a deal with Jonas Group?

Honor Society: One of our EPs that we released a little over a year ago [A Tale of Risky Business (EP)] found its way to them. They really liked what they heard so they came out to check a few live shows. We all hung out a few times and there was this instant creative connection.

ASB: About your new album "Fashionably Late", what were the challenges in getting it done?

Honor Society: There weren't really all that many hurdles actually. It was a pretty easy process thanks to both the Jonas Brothers and our producer, John Fields. It was incredible to have the Jonas Brothers come in a co-write and -produce a few songs too. If anything, first albums are always hard in that you have this lifetime of material, of music that you have to whittle down to about 12 songs. Cutting some of the songs that you have been performing for so long was a little bit of a challenge.

ASB: Since this would be your debut album, what kind of idea do you want to deliver to your fans about the band?

Honor Society: From the beginning when we started the band, we all had a very clear idea of what we wanted Honor Society to be and sound like. We kept that at the front of our minds as we recorded the album. The album is something that we are proud of and it definitely represents us. It's a funky, uptempo rock album and we hope people like the vibe.

ASB: If you are given a chance to make a duet with any musicians, who do you want to tag?

Honor Society: Jordin Sparks. She is this incredible vocalist and we became such good friends during this summers' tour. It would be outstanding to get in the studio with her.

ASB: Please finish this sentence: Hitting the road with Jonas Brothers was ....

Honor Society: ...The summer of our lives. Really. It was a dream come true to be part of such world class entertainers as the Jonas Brothers and Jordin Sparks.

ASB: Your upcoming Fashionably Late tour is kicked off on Sept. 13, what kind of preparation have you done?

Honor Society: We learned so much performing on such a huge tour this summer. Especially in terms of how to play in front of audiences that ranged from 15,000 to 50,000 people. We have learned to take that same energy and focus and apply it to the club scene. We'll be rehearsals leading up to the first show and I think we have some cool things in store that people are going talk about.

ASB: Rolling Stone named you as one of the breakout bands to watch from 2009 Bamboozle Fest, how do you feel about that?

Honor Society: Rolling Stone is such an incredibly important publication that to even be mentioned is such an honor. We are all from the New Jersey and New York areas and I remember going to that show when I was younger. It was crazy to play there for the first time and be on the main stage where I used to watch all my favorite bands.

ASB: We heard that you have a part in "Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakuel", tell us about your part in there!

Honor Society: We have a scene in the film and we are playing ourselves as the band Honor Society. It's a cool scene. We also have a song on the soundtrack. What was really cool was being able to be on set and see for the first time what goes on to produce a film. It's pretty amazing.

ASB: You also recorded a song for movie "Bandslam", how did you you get involved with that film?

Honor Society: The song was brought to us actually. We jumped at the chance especially since we liked the song so much. Plus it was an opportunity to shoot our first music video.

ASB: If you are once again given an opportunity to write a song or involved in any movie project, which film do you want to make contribution to?

Honor Society: So far this year, we have been involved with three different movies and they have all been difference experiences. What we would really like to do is get in on the ground floor and score a movie. Not necessarily with pop songs but more cinematic or orchestral music. That would be cool.

ASB: Personally, do you all have the same character traits?

Honor Society: Well, we are all really good friends and see eye to eye. But there are little quirks that distinguish each of us.

ASB: With you being teenage idols, how have the female fans been treating you?

Honor Society: I guess good so far! But all the fans, not just the female fans, have been so amazing. They have really embraced us and each show around the country had such a distinctiveness to it. We can tell you something different and unique about each show and that was a really interesting and cool part of being able to tour nationally for the first time.

ASB: Please give a shout out to your fans in AceShowbiz and tell them why they should buy your album.

Honor Society: Hey everyone at AceShowbiz! Thank you for speaking with us. We have waited our whole lives to put out this album and we hope you like it. We are so proud of all the hard work that went into it and how far we have come as artists. Our early fans will see the growth in the music and new fans will get to experience a funky, cool pop music album with a rock band vibe.

Wes Anderson Explains E-Mail Directing for 'The Fantastic Mr. Fox'

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Although director Wes Anderson has never intended to be "an in-box auteur" for "The Fantastic Mr. Fox", he ended up being one as he gave direction to his staff via e-mail instead of being on the set in person. Discussing about the matter with Chris Lee of Los Angeles Times, the 40-year-old filmmaker reasoned that he "didn't want to be at Three Mills Studios for two years."

On the complaints thrown by director of photography Tristan Oliver over his lack of knowledge about stop-motion, he responded, "It's not the most pleasant thing to force somebody to do it the way they don't want to do it." He added, "In Tristan's case, what I was telling him was, 'You can't use the techniques that you've learned to use. I'm going to make your life more difficult by demanding a certain approach.' "

"The simple reality is," he further continued, "the movie would not be the way I wanted it if I just did it the way people were accustomed to doing it. I realized this is an opportunity to do something nobody's ever seen before. I want to see it. I don't want afterward to say, 'I could have gone further with this.' "

"The Fantastic Mr. Fox" revolves around Mr. Fox who steals chickens, ducks, and turkeys from three mean, stinky and wealthy farmers, Boggis, Bunce and Bean, to feed his family. When the farmers had enough with his action, they are determined to kill him, endangering not only Mr. Fox's beloved family, but the whole animal community. Trapped underground and with not enough food to go around, he comes up with a plan. He gets the animals band together to fight back.

Based on the novel by author Roald Dahl, this animated feature comes from director/producer/writer Wes Anderson and animator Mark Gustafson. Scheduled to open the 53rd Times BFI London Film Festival on October 14, the movie is set to open wide in the U.S. November 13. Among those contributing for the characters' voices are George Clooney, Meryl Streep, Bill Murray, Owen Wilson, Adrien Brody and Willem Dafoe.

Atif Aslam: Hum Mustafavi Hain

The Naat/Qawwali is done by Atif Aslam for Engro foods which produces milk products. The naat is done for the Holy month of Ramzan which is starting soon. Engro Foods started its business operations in March 2006 and with the successful launch of Olpers Milk, Tarang, Olwell, and Olpers cream, it has established itself as [...]

Fashion & Style

NEW YORK (Reuters) – New York’s reputation as a global fashion capital is under threat with the city’s once bustling garment district facing.
Just steps from runways of the semi-annual Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in midtown Manhattan, design patterns are drawn, fabric chosen and samples sewn for top designers such as Nanette Lepore and Anna Sui.
But the [...]

Michael Jackson This is It Lyrics

Michael Jackson This is It Lyrics, A previously unreleased song by Michael Jackson entitled ‘This Is It’ was unveiled to the world on Monday almost four months after the star’s death.

Entertainment said in a statement. The recording features backing vocals by Michael’s brothers and will be played during the closing sequence of the forthcoming film “Michael Jackson’s This Is It” and feature on a two-disc CD set of the same name.

A new photo of Jackson taken during rehearsals at the Staples Center in Los Angeles will also be unveiled, the record label said. The album will go on sale later this month to coincide with the worldwide release of the movie on October 28.

Disc one of the album features some of Jackson’s biggest hits such as “Billie Jean,” “Smooth Criminal,” “Human Nature,” and “Thriller” arranged in the same sequence as they appear in the film.

Mad Men's Christina Hendricks Weds!

Mad Men star Christina Hendricks owes Vincent Kartheiser big-time.

The 34-year-old actress, who plays Joan Holloway on the Emmy-winning AMC series, wed her actor beau, Geoffrey Arend, Sunday at II Buco restaurant in New York, according to People.

The couple became engaged in December 2008 after Kartheiser, Hendrick's Mad Men costar, introduced them.

Hendricks, who called her Carolina Herrera bridal gown "timeless," said she and her 31-year-old hubby wanted to keep the ceremony small.

"We really wanted it to be filled with our absolute best friends and our family", Hendricks told E! News in September. "We didn't want to spread ourselves too thin and we really wanted it to have a warm environment, so we kept it with the tightest people."

A wedding and all that Mad Men Emmy love? Definitely not a bad year for the saucy TV secretary.

Boy Band Singer Found Dead

Universal Int'l

Boyzone singer Stephen Gately died Saturday while on vacation in Mallorca, Spain, the group confirmed on their official website Sunday.

"We are truly sorry to confirm that Stephen tragically died [Saturday] whilst on holiday, with his partner Andrew," a posting on the site said. "We are unable to give any other details at this time."

Bandmates Ronan Keating, Keith Duffy, Mikey Graham and Shane Lynch said in a statement: "We are completely devastated by the loss of our friend and brother, Stephen. We have shared such wonderful times together over the years and were all looking forward to sharing many more. Stephen was a beautiful person in both body and spirit. He it up our lives and those of the many friends he had all over the world. Our love and sympathy go out to Andrew and Stephen's family. We will love you and will miss you forever, 'Steo.'"

The 33-year-old (second from the left in the photo) shook up the pop world a decade ago when he announced he was gay. The Irish pop group had a huge teenage female fan base at the time and had sold millions of albums before splitting in 2000. The band reunited in 2008 for a successful tour.

Gately and his partner, Andrew Cowles, wed in a civil union in 2006.

The cause of death is not yet known.

UNRELEASED MICHAEL JACKSON SONG "THIS IS IT" TO BE UNVEILED at MIDNIGHT ON OCTOBER 12TH ON MICHAELJACKSON.COM

UNRELEASED MICHAEL JACKSON SONG "THIS IS IT" TO BE UNVEILED at MIDNIGHT ON
OCTOBER 12TH ON MICHAELJACKSON.COM

SONY MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT DISCLOSES
TRACKLISTING OF MICHAEL JACKSON ALBUM
THIS IS IT

NEW YORK, NY - At the stroke of 12 a.m. (midnight) EST on October 12th, a never-before released song from Michael Jackson - a single entitled "This Is It" - will be unveiled to the world on www.MichaelJackson.com. "This Is It," a brand new song, marks yet another exciting moment in music history for one of the world’s most revered artists; featuring backing vocals by Michael’s brothers The Jacksons, the song plays during the closing sequence of Sony Pictures' forthcoming film MICHAEL JACKSON'S THIS IS IT and is on the 2-disc CD set Michael Jackson's This Is It, which is the stand-alone companion to the motion picture. The single artwork - a new photo of Michael taken recently at his Staples Center rehearsals - will also be disclosed.

Later this month, Sony Music Entertainment's Columbia/Epic Label Group will release the two-disc album Michael Jackson's This Is It internationally on October 26th and North America on October 27th to coincide with the worldwide release of the motion picture, which arrives in theaters on October 28th and runs for a limited two-week engagement.

Disc one features the original album masters of some of Michael's biggest hits such as "Billie Jean," "Smooth Criminal," "Human Nature," and "Thriller" arranged in the same sequence as they appear in the film. The disc ends with two versions of "This Is It," the original and an orchestral version. "This Is It" is featured in the film's closing sequence and includes backing vocals by Michael's brothers, the Jacksons.

Disc two offers fans a rare listen to the early demo versions of classics "She's Out Of My Life," "Wanna Be Startin'," "Somethin'," and "Beat It." This disc also features a recently discovered spoken word poem from Michael Jackson entitled "Planet Earth."

Michael Jackson's This Is It also includes a 36-page, commemorative booklet featuring exclusive photos of Michael from his last rehearsal.


THIS IS IT – COMPLETE TRACKLISTING

Disc 01

1. Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’
2. Jam
3. They Don’t Care About Us
4. Human Nature
5. Smooth Criminal
6. The Way You Make Me Feel
7. Shake Your Body (Down To The Ground)
8. I Just Can’t Stop Loving You
9. Thriller
10. Beat It
11. Black Or White
12. Earth Song
13. Billie Jean
14. Man In The Mirror
15. This Is It
16. This Is It (Orchestra Version)
    

Disc 02

1. She’s Out Of My Life (Demo)
2. Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’ (Demo)
3. Beat It (Demo)
4. Planet Earth (Poem)
   

The motion picture MICHAEL JACKSON’S THIS IS IT will offer Jackson fans and music lovers worldwide a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the performer as he developed, created and rehearsed for his sold-out concerts that would have taken place beginning this summer in London's O2 Arena. Chronicling the months from March through June, 2009, the film is drawn from more than one hundred hours of behind-the-scenes footage, featuring Jackson rehearsing a number of his songs for the show. Kenny Ortega, who was both Michael Jackson's creative partner and the director of the stage show, is also directing the film, which is being produced by Randy Phillips, Kenny Ortega and Paul Gongaware. Executive producers are John Branca and John McClain. The film will be distributed worldwide by Sony Pictures Releasing. For more information about the film please visit www.thisisit-movie.com.

Fox Urged To Set Better Green Example

The Transformers beauty, Megan Fox, 23, has admitted that she insists on keeping her home well-lit to avoid returning to a dark, empty place.
She said, "I've been afraid of the dark my whole life. If I go into my house at night and the lights have been turned off... I have to run from the door to the light switch to turn it on... I'm just afraid of what I can't see." But Fox's comments have prompted campaigners at an NGO to call on the actress to set a better example to her young fans and be more environment friendly.
A representative for the NGO says: "Everyone's allowed an irrational fear or two, but it's pretty easy to keep your house well-lit without wasting energy. Megan can install a programmable light timer or even some motion-sensor lighting.”

Brangelina Will Not Star Together In Film

Hollywood actress Angelina Jolie doesn't think it is likely that she and Brad Pitt will star in another film with each other, because they have their hands full raising their children.
The Oscar-winning actress thinks it would be fantastic to work with him again but doesn't have the time because they raise six children together.
"I'd love to work with him but we have a lot of kids!" she said.
Angelina says being parents to Maddox (8), Pax (5), Zahara (4), Shiloh (3), and 15-month-old twins Knox and Vivienne is hard work as she and Brad try and make sure all their kids are happy and fulfilled.
"We try to find a balance in our lives because we want to educate our children and fulfill our dreams as artists and as people. So, before making a decision we think about it thoroughly because our family is our top priority," she added.

Genelia On Celluloid

This perky actress has rocked down south as well as Bollywood. And now, Genelia D’Souza is all set to reach a bigger audience through TV. But it wasn’t a calculated move, she says. “I didn’t plan any of the things that have happened to me. Whether it’s acting, modelling or this TV show I’ll be hosting, it’s my fans who’ve decided for me,” says Genelia.
And TV isn’t just for out-of-work Bollywood actors, she maintains. “I don’t think it’s a back-door entry to the limelight. Television is the best way to reach out to a lot of people,” she says, adding, “I’ve always lived by my own fundas. When I started my film career down south, people told me it was a place for Bollywood drop-outs. But I’ve proved them wrong and made a place for myself there.” So, does this mean that Genelia is in the same league as Salman Khan and Farah Khan, who are now hosting TV shows? “Oh, no! They’re great. I’ll be glad if I get anywhere close to them,” she replies.
She’s also the new face in the advertisement world after Preity Zinta and Rani Mukerji. “If anyone shows 10 per cent confidence in me, I’ll give them my 100 per cent. I feel privileged to endorse quite a few prestigious brands because it comes with huge responsibility,” says the actress.

Nawal Just Wants To Be Free

Nawal Zoghby is trying to rebuild her life after getting a divorce from her husband and ex-manager, Elie Deeb.
The Lebanese star recently said: "Nobody knew how much I suffered. I am a wounded woman, but I don't have a grudge against anybody. During sixteen years, every day since the day I was married, I cried.
My husband was the first man of my life. My only aim was to have a family and to take care of his parents and mine."
Zoghby got married at 18, a few months after starting her career. While Zoghby's successful career has earned her a fortune, she said that Deeb never allowed her to sign cheques.
She also discovered recently that her songs were not registered in her name, but in Deeb's. "I am young and talented, I still can work and count on myself," she said.
"I just want to be free. I feel as if I was in jail. I don't want to go back to the ugly past," she confessed. "I do not regret anything because we learn from our experiences."

Salman Floors Kareena With His Generosity

It is a known fact that Salman Khan is quite generous, and this time the recipient of his generosity was the beautiful Kareena Kapoor, Salman’s co-star in Main Aur Mrs. Khanna.
In Melbourne on the shoot, the two stars who are friends would always be laughing, cracking jokes and having fun. And when pack-up was announced, Kareena would often go shopping. Once, Salman accompanied her to carry the bags! At one particular store, Bebo went on a shopping spree, picking up things for friends, family and herself.
When she went to settle the bill, she was told that it was already paid. Seeing Salman grinning from ear-to-ear, Kareena realised who her benefactor was. Of the things that Salman apparently ‘gifted’ her was a limited edition bag worth Rs 2.5 lakh! She uses the bag in the film too. When asked about the incident, Kareena replied, “Salman’s generosity cannot be matched. It was a very sweet gesture on his part. He is a wonderful person at heart.”

SRK Special

So Did You Know That SRK...
· Can eat chicken (preferably grilled) for breakfast, lunch and dinner. He’ll finish everything handed to him on a plate but doesn’t accept a second helping.
· Can spend three-four hours at a stretch in the bathroom.
· Would prefer to stay at home for an entire week and not miss the rest of the world (contrary to the belief that he likes to party hard and hang out at night clubs).
· Loves opening presents, be it a book (he’s a voracious reader), plants or portraits. A hoarder, he doesn’t like to junk any of his belongings.
· Is very particular about the comfortable fit of his pair of jeans. Not brand-fussy, the jeans must fit right or he’ll be in a ‘grrrr’ mood.
· Teaches his kids their school subjects at times ‘over-teaching’ and taking them to a different level.
· Has his house equipped with the high-end Crestron – an automated system which is largely used in Hollywood – to control various systems like lights, curtains and the video and music systems.
· Doesn’t listen to much music nowadays. Doesn’t see much movies either unless he’s dragged to the screenings.

And Did You Know That Gauri Khan...
· Doesn’t like getting presents and would rather get shoes, bags or whatever for herself.
· Is a people’s person --– very loyal to her friends and vice versa (contrary to popular perception that she’s shy and aloof)
· Can’t cook. Could rustle up two special ice-creams – including a scoop of chocolate with crushed biscuit but has stopped even that now.
· Is a tea person.
· Has inculcated the values of secular faith in the kids.
· Was 14 when she first met SRK at a party, he was 17.
· Is not crazy about chicken. She is a sea-food person.
· Has an eye for art – bought the works of Chitrabhanu Mazumdar before he became hugely coveted.
· Loves visiting London – she likes any destination in Europe, particularly Rome for its architecture.
· Is into all genres of music: classical, trance, pop and rock. She cherishes the memory of a rocking George Michael concert.

FASHION FANTASY

Autumn's bounty of fashion is marked by an abundance of embellishments, from studs to zippers and sequins, all trendy touches that point to designers' simultaneous resurrection of looks from the '70s, '80s and '90s. Same was the case at the recently concluded Women's Week in Milan.
The style to go by is anything that makes you feel comfortable. While sleeveless and off-shoulder are always a good choice, for the more conservative three-quarter or full length sleeves with structured shoulders will do the trick. For an understated approach, cinch a snug sheath dress with a wide, neutral-hued belt and Viola! You're all set to go.

Print Bottoms

After seasons of solid bottoms, Fall 2009 puts the print into leggings, skirts and pants.
Wear It: Print leggings are one of the hottest looks on the fall runway, but you need to wear them with care. The easiest way to pull off slim print pants or leggings is to wear the with a longer sweater or tunic. Print skirts can pull double duty worn with matching print tops for a dress look or mixed with solids for more versatility.

Versatile Chic: The Never-Ending Cocktail Dress

How many dresses do you own that you can wear more than 100 different ways? I am totally intrigued by this dress they call "The Fancy." It comes in a reversible fabric -- one side matte, the other shiny --and can be tied more than 100 ways according to a company rep. The dress comes in 5 colors (I love this violet), costs $280 and is a one-size-fits all that can be adjusted to even work as a maternity dress. (Photo Credit: Hayley Starr)

Pirates of Bollywood: Film to expose murky world of piracy

New Delhi, Oct 8 (IANS) Here's a crime thriller that could be Bollywood's first feature film exposing the murky world of piracy - a problem that costs the world's largest movie industry millions every year. Titled "Pirates", it is being made by Percept Picture Company close on the heels of Divya Khosla's short film on the subject.

"'Pirates' is a platform for the industry to unite for this cause and I am extremely glad to receive an enthusiastic response from like-minded companies," said Shailendra Singh, joint MD Percept Ltd in a statement released here Thursday.

To be directed by Ashu Trikha, "Pirates" will also highlight the trials and tribulations of a filmmaker and his personal attempt to stop piracy.

Singh says that from companies such as Pritish Nandy Communications, T Series, Sanjay Ghodawat Group, Maxwell Entertainment, and Prasad Labs to individuals like David Dhawan, and Sanjay Gupta are supporting him in his endeavour.

Every year India's entertainment industry bears a loss of Rs.16,000 crore and 820,000 jobs due to piracy as reported by Ernst & Young, India, one of the world's leading professional service organisation.

"Pirates", which will be shot at real locations, will be realistic and investigative in nature. It will be showcased at prominent international film festivals to create global awareness and garner support.

"Percept has always recognised the power that cinema has in making a social difference. We were pioneers in Cause Cinema, through our film 'Phir Milenge' (2004) addressing AIDS. We are approaching many more partners and talent to truly make this a film by the industry for the industry," adds Singh.

Sneak Peek: 2008 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show Video

The Fountainbleau Hotel in Miami was sick with scantily clad supermodels and celebrities this weekend as the angels worked in on the runway. Usher kicked off the show as 35 supermodels wearing lingerie, bondage and wings walked the runway in 68 new outfits..coming to a catalog near you soon.

Adrianna Lima had the honor of wearing the ridiculous fantasy bra this year, “I always wanted to wear the Fantasy Bra. It’s the first time that Victoria’s Secret makes a black diamond bra,” Lima said. “A woman could definitely buy it if they love it and men too.”

Ok, supermodel…most of us don’t want or need a diamond and ruby enrusted bra…just keep your mouth shut and look pretty.

I kid. I love Adrianna.

But really…shut up.

The hot models weren’t the only eye candy at the newly refurbished Fountainblaeu Hotel. Celebrities spotted on the pink carpet included P. Diddy, Russell Simmons, Michelle Trachtenberg, John Stamos, Kim and Kourtney Kardashian and Martha Stewart.

The 2008 Victoria’s Secret Fashion will be aired December 3rd at 10:00pm on CBS.

Birthday wishes for Bollywood actress Rekha

NEW DELHI, India : Birthday wishes for Bollywood actress Rekha, Her glamorous persona still has men gawking. Bollywood actress Rekha, who turns 55 on Saturday, metamorphosed into a diva from the overweight young actress she once was and inspires the current league of actresses.

“She is a dreamer… she lives in her own world. She imagines a lot of things that suit her psyche as an actor. She is a very genuine, warm and a very sensitive person… And no denying the fact a very good learner. It has been an amazing experience to work with her; she is a perfect actress,” said Muzaffar Ali.

“Post-Umrao Jaan, she has kind of withdrawn herself… perhaps because that role was a very cerebral, cultural and classical one that raised her to a pedestal that cannot be surpassed ever… not by her or by anyone else,” he added.

Daughter of southern star Gemini Ganesan, Rekha bagged overnight success with her debut vehicle Sawan Bhadon in (1970) and gradually became India’s sex symbol. What catapulted her to the Bollywood zenith was Muzaffar Ali’s period drama Umrao Jaan (1981) that even won her a National Award.

Having acted in more than 150 films, she made her presence felt with her versatility and different avatars in films like Do Anjaane (1976), Ghar (1978), Muqaddar Ka Sikander (1978), Khubsoorat (1980), Silsila (1981), Baseraa (1981), Utsav (1984), Khoon Bhari Maang (1988), Ijaazat (1988), Kama Sutra (1996) and Zubeidaa (2001) to name a few.

Last seen in a cameo for Shah Rukh Khan-starrer Om Shanti Om (2007), industry insiders have often spoken of Rekha as a “capable, disciplined actress with immense range, ability and mastery of precise detail”.

“Rekha is nearest to the parallel of Swedish actress Greta Garbo… they both came from poor backgrounds and climbed great heights… As an artist she was first noticed in Ghar and after that she was no more termed as only a voluptuous artist in Hindi cinema because then came films like Khubsoorat and Umrao Jaan that set her apart,” said noted film historian Gautam Kaul.

“She is enigmatic… because she is hard to get. She only moves in a small circle of senior film people and she shuns the media. That’s also because she is a tragic figure with failed relationships… none of which succeeded, so she has withdrawn into herself. The only place she is now noticed is award functions, which are also picked and chosen. But she still doesn’t give any interviews,” he added.

All said and done, Rekha is also known for her lifestyle and glossy image.

“Rekha is a diva… In fact, the term diva (in India) was coined for Rekha. The way she has metamorphosed herself from what she was when she came into the industry is mind blowing… She has worked on her language, body, diction, everything and apart from that she’s a fantastic actress,” said renowned film critic Omar Qureshi.

“There was a special ‘Rekha Diet’ compiled by Chunky Pande’s mother, Dr. Snehlata Pandey. Her looks and style are copied throughout India and she even has her book (on yoga and exercises) called ‘Rekha’s Mind and Body Temple’ (1983). She has remained a mystery and what keeps her a legend is that how she has kept it intact so beautifully. She is a complete Jane Fonda,” he added.

She still inspires the current league of actresses.

“She is a very good actress… I enjoy seeing her movies. She is very humane and caring. I wish her blessings and good wishes for her birthday,” said Gul Panag.

Item girl Rakhi Sawant feels that Rekha’s wax statue should also be made.

“There is no one in the industry to compare with Rekhaji as a beauty and as a performer… she is so good. For me, she is the perfect style icon. Jitna chamak unke face par hai, kisi ke chehre par nahin (the glow on her face is incomparable).

“She has a perfect nose, pretty eyes and the best part is that she does her make-up on her own. She is in perfect shape. I just love her and adore her. I think she should have a wax statue at Madame Tussaud’s. I wish her a very Happy Birthday,” Rakhi said.

Mugdha Godse: “I admire her and she is the one actress I look up to. I love her unforgettable films like ‘Khoobsurat’. She’s a living legend. I wish her many more happy birthdays and wish to see her more often on the silver screen.”

Rekha is also rumoured to be penning her autobiography and is also tentatively to appear in the sequel to Krrissh.

Giselle Monteiro gracing the cover of Elle

After earning accolades for her acting and walking the fashion ramps for the couture weeks, Brazilian model and Indian actress Giselle Monteiro is now to be found gracing the cover of Elle. The slender model is welcoming winter by posing with elan in monochromatic black and white.

Here, Harleen Kaur of Love Aaj Kal is singing a different tune with disheveled hair, never ending legs and an awestruck look; she is ‘Who’s that girl’ for Elle India’s October issue.

The stunning starlet has already bagged another Bollywood movie named ‘Purani Jeans’ and has also started learning Hindi.

Phir Milenge for sure.

First Look Into DJ AM's 'Gone Too Far' Via Trailer

The trailer of DJ AM's "Gone Too Far" finally gets to see the light. MTV has shared the first look into the reality series which was pitched by the late DJ before he died on August 28 at the age of 36. Among the footage seen in the trailer is the one time when AM encourages a teen that "it's not too late" to get a clean life.

As of Monday, October 6, MTV announced that they would resume with the airing of the show based on the consent from AM's family. In an open letter, the family wrote, "After careful consideration we have decided to air the show. Adam felt strongly that by doing this series, he could help other addicts who were at a crisis point to get sober. Adam was fully aware that if it were not for his own sobriety, he never would have achieved the level of success and happiness he had found."

Big B on Bigg Boss

Bachchan spoke recently about why India appears hooked on reality TV and why he would never survive life inside the "Bigg Boss" house.

Q: What made you say yes to hosting "Bigg Boss"?

A: "I felt that the format of the show was such that I could do something different with it. If you keep a person locked up inside a house, with no access to phones or newspapers, no clocks, and if this person has some companions in the house, how will he behave? What emotions will arise? Can we pinpoint the reasons for these emotions? I hope we can answer some of these questions."

Q: You ended your stint on "Who Wants to be a Millionaire" in 2006. What made you resist the lure of TV for so long?

A: "There were a lot of people that came to me and we discussed many opportunities but we didn't come to any solution. It wasn't the lure as such, just the concept of the shows."

Q: Do you see yourself participating in a show like this?

A: "No, no, never. How will I ever live like that? How can you not have newspapers in the morning, not have TV? Or a clock? You aren't able to do anything. I wouldn't be able to do it."

Q: Is it going to be a tough assignment for you?

A: "Yes, it will be. Whenever you meet a stranger, you don't ask them personal questions straight away. If I meet you on the street, I won't ask you why are you wearing a bindi, or are you married. I will have to do that, because the format of the show demands it. That will be tough on me."

Q: How do you see the growth of Indian reality TV? There have been so many controversies surrounding it lately.

A: "It is all part of the growing-up of society and it had to come some time or the other. The rest of the universe is moving ahead and with so many communication facilities available, it would be difficult to keep anything away. That, and the fact that we have 400 channels. It is unbelievable, nowhere in the world do you have that. It just shows that the nation is growing. And we must give it time. In time, as a nation, as a society, as a people, we will say, we do not like this, we don't want this and we will get rid of it. But it is too early to pass a judgement."

Ranbir Kapoor punched Katrina Kaif on Nose

Not many heroes can get away after punching their heroines on the movie sets. But such was the camaraderie between Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif on the sets of Rajkumar Santoshi’s film Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani that Kat had the good sense to crack a joke after getting accidentally hit on her nose by Ranbir while shooting a scene.In a scene in the film, a few goons eve-tease Katrina, and Ranbir comes to her rescue. While shooting the ensuing scuffle with the goons, Ranbir accidentally ended up smacking a punch on Katrina’s nose.

While any other actress would have huffed and puffed, Katrina took the punch in her own funny stride.

According to a source, she immediately retorted: “Ranbir, are you trying to save me from the goons or are you saving the goons from me.”

That funny gem from Kat had everyone in splits on the sets.

In another scene it was Ranbir’s turn to get his nose injured. It was a sequence in which Katrina elopes with him on his bike. Since it was a funny scene, Ranbir had to drive the bike into a wooden house and crash through it. After the scene Katrina noticed that Ranbir’s nose was bleeding and she helped him nurse it.

Ah! Such care and affection from Katrina almost melts our heart.

Deepika Padukone won’t gush about Ranbir

MUMBAI , India : Deepika Padukone won’t gush about Ranbir, The Mediterranean tan sits pretty on Deepika Padukone who has just returned from Italy where she wrapped up Sajid Nadiadwala’s Housefull with

I was in London, then Italy for the longest time, so I didn’t get to enjoy the success of my last film Love Aaj Kal,” says the pretty South Indian, her large brandy-coloured eyes dancing. She’s clear though that she now has to move on to her next two releases — Kartik Calling Kartik with Farhan Akhtar and Housefull, both of which will come in 2010. Deepika has also signed Pradeep Sarkar’s gritty thriller to be shot on the streets of Mumbai with Neil Nitin Mukesh. “Producer Aditya Chopra had promised me a film right after Bachna ae Haseeno,” she recalls. “I’m glad Adi remembered that.”

For now, she too has made a promise to herself — she’s a girl in love but she will not gush about Ranbir Kapoor. On a recent television show when she was asked to analyse her superstar-boyfriend, Deepika was very pragmatic in her answers. “I know that I was expected to gush about Ranbir,” she smiles. “However, I believe that people who are closest to a person, must always give them a reality check. I’m aware that Ranbir is a superstar. But, I will always be rational when I speak about him.

Deepika, who spent 12 days in Bhopal by her boyfriend’s side where he is shooting for Prakash Jha’s Rajniti with Katrina Kaif, says, “Ranbir and I have been away from each other for long spells because of our individual work schedules. Our career is of prime importance to us. However, I don’t wish to be one of those actors who is so caught up in work that I forget to keep in touch with life. Hence, I make it a point to spend time with him whenever I can. Work definitely makes my world go around but a short break here and there makes life so much more special.

The story goes that she flew to Bhopal just to keep Katrina at bay? “Certainly not,” says Deepika. And, though she is too professional to make any comment on Ranbir’s co-stars, her calm demeanour has a way of signalling that she’s secure in her new-found success. The actress is in a cushy place with a new set of friends like Ayan Mukerji and Vicky Singh, who are common to both Ranbir and her. “I knew Ayan would make a good film when he gave his first narration to Ranbir,” she says. Is she in Vicky’s new film with Ranbir, as is suggested by the trade? “It’s a bit premature to talk about that project,” she says. “Vicky is still undecided on what he wants.