Another gem from Salim-Sulaiman
Music directors: Salim Merchant-Sulaiman MerchantLyricist: Niranjan IyengarSingers: Sukhwinder Singh, Kailash Kher, Marianne D'Cruz Aiman, Salim Merchant, Vishal Dadlani, Sonu Niigaam, Shruti Pathak and Shreya GhoshalSalim-Sulaiman have slowly emerged as creators of amazing and impressive music. With their next album for the movie "Kurbaan", which stars Saif Ali Khan, Kareena Kapoor and Vivek Oberoi, they have proved their prowess yet again. The album boasts of songs that grow on you and are not typical. There are five originals and one remix in the album. "Ali Maula", brilliantly sung by Salim Merchant himself, has a dark, edgy beginning. The slow-paced devotional number has minimal musical arrangements and makes an impact. The track also has a remixed version, which is faster and introduces more orchestration. Up next is "Dua" - it exudes freshness and gets an edge with the vocals. Crooned by two very talented singers - Sukhwinder Singh and Kailash Kher - the song begins with English lyrics rendered by Marianne D'Cruz Aiman. It has strong musical backing and a qawwali touch, which makes it interesting. Then comes the title track "Kurbaan hua" that has Vishal Dadlani behind the mike. It reminds of "Nazara hai" from the film "8 x 10 Tasveer". Nonetheless, "Kurbaan hua" is a power-packed rock number that does create an impact. Next is "Rasiya", which is the best song of the album. With the deep and extremely engaging voice of Shruti Pathak, the sensual number instantly strikes a chord with the listener. A semi-classical song like this has come in the forefront after a long time. Finally there is a pleasing romantic number "Shukran allah" sung by Sonu Niigaam, Shreya Ghoshal and Salim Merchant. Its mellow arrangements make it a soothing and likeable song. On the whole, the album is worth checking out. Salim-Sulaiman have done a great job yet again.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Ramchand Pakistani (Movie Review)
Stellar performances make it an emotionally engrossing watch
by Arpana
Cross border problems is the basic theme of first time Pakistani director Mehreen Jabbar's "Ramchand Pakistani". Since partition in 1947, India and Pakistan have fought three wars, excluding the Kargil conflict. Six decades after partition, the common man continues to pay a heavy price for the tension between the two countries. There are several cases of innocent people from India and Pakistan who are caught and sent to jail on mere suspicion. Mehreen's film focuses on the human sufferings on both sides of the border and she has succeeded in giving it unbiased treatment. The stellar performances by the entire cast make "Ramchand Pakistani" an emotionally engrossing watch.Set in 2002, the film, inspired by a true story, is about the accidental crossing of the Pakistan-India border by a boy and his father."The film is based on actual events. My father (former Pakistani politician and filmmaker Javed Jabbar) works a lot in the areas close to the desert. One day he came across a father-son duo who narrated their story to him. That is where we got the inspiration to make this film. I am sure it will reach out to audiences," said Mehreen.The film revolves around Ramchand, an eight-year-old Dalit Hindu boy. He lives with his parents - mother Champa (Nandita Das) and father Shankar (Rashid Farooqui) - in a village in the border area of Pakistan.One day, after a fight with his mother, Ramchand runs away from home. While walking aimlessly, he accidentally crosses the border not knowing this will cost him his freedom. His father spots him crossing the line of control and tries to stop him. In doing so, he too crosses the border. As expected, the boy and his father are caught and put in a jail in India. After that starts their long battle to prove their innocence and secure freedom.While at the mercy of jail authorities, Shankar tries to cope with the trauma of forced separation from his mother. His mother is shattered by their sudden disappearance. Nandita is the only non-Pakistani actor in "Ramchand Pakistani". Well-known Pakistani TV and stage actors like Rashid Farooqi, Maria Wasti and Farooq Pario's performances are specially noteworthy.Fazal Hussain, who plays the eight-year-old protagonist Ramchand, has been particularly appreciated for his outstanding performance."The younger Ramchand has been played by Fazal Hussain. A friend of mine who is a director himself suggested him after a lot of search. The older one, however, is 14 years old. He is the son of a mechanic in Pakistan and has acted for the first time ever in any film," said Mehreen. The no-frills film is made at a nominal budget. Technically, the film is not of high quality, but Mehreen's narrative manages to hold the viewers' attention till the credits roll out.Cast: Nandita Das, Rashid Farooqui, Noman Ijaz, Syed Fazal Hussain, Navaid Jabbar Maria WastiDirector: Mehreen JabbarIndo-Asian News Service
'Fruit And Nut' (Movie Review)
Likely to drive you nuts
by Joginder Tuteja
Cast: Cyrus Broacha, Dia Mirza, Boman Irani, Mahesh Manjrekar, Rajit KapoorDirector: Kunal Vijaykar"Fruit And Nut" is a film which is neither sweet as a fruit not crunchy as a nut. In fact the best way to describe it is that its makers must have actually gone totally nuts in sanctioning a film - if it can actually be termed so - like this. It is one thing to go bizarre, break the norms and come up with a quirky affair, but it's an altogether different thing if the makers become completely overconfident, try to be extra smart and ultimately fall flat on their face. "Fruit And Nut" falls in the latter category. For a movie that has been sold as a quickie comedy, there is not even a single scene that actually makes you roll with laughter. At most, there could be a faint smile or two at a few junctures. The film by itself is not even silly enough to be laughed at, if not laughed along with. In fact the latter half is so unbearable that you actually contemplate walking out of the auditorium. Thankfully, it is the 'unusual suspect' Mahesh Manjrekar who actually manages to make you at least remain seated till the end credits start rolling. "Fruit And Nut" tries to pack a lot in the overall narrative by introducing newer situations and characters practically every 10 minutes. Cyrus Broacha is a loser who doesn't fit into any role, whether it is being an office clerk, radio jockey, watchman or even a help at a pizza shop. He fumbles at every step, literally so. Exaggeration is the name of the game here and though one understands where director Kunal was coming from when he created a character like this, it becomes a little too much to digest just 15 minutes into the film. Dia Mirza as the "lady in sari" is a pleasant watch though and carries a touch-me-not persona around her for most of the film. As a young woman who has been kidnapped, she does exude vibes of being someone who deserves to be rescued. However, the kidnapper in question, Boman Irani, gets annoying at places with his 'Breakfast Kiya' phrase. Of course the purpose here was to irritate but then there is always a thin line between an irritating character and an irritating actor. Thankfully, this is where Mahesh Manjrekar comes in handy as his one liners do manage to bring on smiles at frequent intervals. Yes, just like all other characters in the film, he too is quite bizarre. One doesn't quite mind that since the dialogues mouthed by him - a mix of Hindi, English and plain gibberish - belong to never-heard before variety. His novelty too starts fading as the reels progress. In between all this 'hardly amusing' madness, there are additional characters like the villain's henchmen, a cop, hired assassins Salim & Sulaiman, a beggar turned RAW agent and a scientist - all of whom only make this 100-minute film seem like double its length. In the past, there have been quite a few quirky movies made and all have met with diverse results. "Honeymoon Travels Pvt. Ltd" worked while "Bheja Fry" paved the way for many more humorous films to come. However, in the last few months, there have also been releases like "Aagey Se Right" and "Quick Gun Murugan", none of which managed to make any impact whatsoever at the box office. "Fruit And Nut" is all set to suffer a worse fate at the theatres. Indo-Asian News Service
Wasim Akram bowled over by Sushmita Sen
Former Pakistani cricketer finds her 'incredible'
by Radhika Bhirani
Wasim Akram is currently co-judging the reality TV show "Ek Khiladi Ek Hasina" with Sushmita
Guess who's making former Pakistan cricket captain and swing king Wasim Akram sway to her tunes nowadays? Bollywood actress and former beauty queen Sushmita Sen.Akram, who is currently co-judging an Indian reality TV show "Ek Khiladi Ek Hasina" with Sushmita, is totally gaga over the actress."I think she is an incredible person, very helpful, extremely professional and, yes, she has really made me comfortable on the show," Akram told IANS in an interview.Akram first interacted with Sushmita in Dubai in 2006."I met her about two years ago in Dubai. We did a telethon for Imran Khan's cancer hospital together. That was two days in a row and almost three hours live on TV. So I got to interact with her. We managed to raise quite a bit of money," he said.Sushmita was also one of the reasons why he agreed to be on the judging panel of this show."So far the game is really exciting and fun. It's something very different and that's why I agreed to the show and, plus, I was told that Sushmita would be there; so I agreed.""Ek Khiladi Ek Hasina" airs on Colors and pits six pairs of a cricketer and a TV actress each to display their dancing skills. The cricketers on the show include S. Sreesanth, Harbhajan Singh, Vinod Kambli, Irfan Pathan, Dinesh Kartik and Nikhil Mehra.In one of the recent episodes, Akram has been seen reciting shayari (Urdu couplets) to flatter the actress, but he has not shaken a leg with her so far. Any plans?"Maybe. In fact, they have tried to make me dance, but I really can't handle that sort of pressure. Playing the world cup final twice was okay, but not this," he says.Akram is also entirely dependent on Sushmita to judge the dancing capabilities of the contestants, as he "can't make out the head or tail of dancing"."I wanted to see how the cricketers behave on the stage. I'm not judging the technicalities of their dance. For that Sushmita is there. I have no clue about dancing, what would I comment. I'm not looking at their steps at all. For me, their passion is important," he said.He added: "We are not looking for a dance icon who would go into Bollywood and dance. The idea is to have cricketers dancing and see how they do on the stage. The girls, all six of them, are very talented and excellent. But, for the boys, it's a new thing."So what is his criterion for judging? "For me it's like one day cricket - perform on the day, if you play well, you'll win."Akram feels that though such a show will be a hit in Pakistan, not many cricketers there will agree to take part in it."It will be a big hit there no doubt, but where will the Pakistani cricketers dance there? I don't think the Pakistani cricketers will dance. First let them play well at least," he said and laughed.A lot of actors in India and Pakistan are looking to make a mark in Bollywood, but Akram feels otherwise."I do enjoy acting and watching movies. But acting is a proper profession; you have to learn for it. I've seen cricketers who have done films. But after one or two films, they are not seen any more and I don't want to be one of them."I am happy to leave acting in Bollywood to Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan and Amitabh Bacchan - all these great actors," said Akram.Indo-Asian News Service
'Nothing was planned in my career'
Actor Boman Irani earlier tried his luck at selling potato chips, photography and theatre
In his first movie "Josh", he had a fleeting appearance. Eight years later Boman Irani is known as a niche actor with the ability to pull audiences. But he doesn't like to be labelled a star and says he is just an average person who loves it when kids approach him."I'm not a hero or a superstar. I'm an everyday guy. I feel happy when children approach me. I feel that something good is happening in life when little kids recognise me," Boman told IANS in an interview.After a humble beginning with Mansoor Khan's "Josh", Boman shot to fame as the eccentric Dr. J.C. Asthana in Rajkumar Hirani's 2003 hit comedy "Munnabhai M.B.B.S.".He has since then won kudos for his powerful performances in films like "Lage Raho Munna Bhai", "Khosla Ka Ghosla", "Don - The Chase Begins Again" and "Honeymoon Travels Pvt. Ltd".Boman says he doesn't mind people remembering him more for "Munnabhai" than for his other roles."I don't mind being identified as any character as long as I'm doing a good job as an actor. I have done all kinds of roles - from an editor, judge, police officer, murderer to a corrupt businessman. And if people identify me as Dr. Asthana or Lucky Singh from 'Munnabhai' movies, I am happy," said Boman."After 'Munnabhai M.B.B.S.' happened, I haven't looked back," added the actor who was in New Delhi to shoot for his forthcoming film "99".Talking about "99", he said: "It is based in the year 1999 and I play a gambler who wants the world to know him as a normal office-goer. I sport a French beard in the film," said Boman.The film is being directed by US-based Indian directors - Raj Nidimuro and Krishna D.K. - who have earlier made "Shor" and "Flavors"."99" also stars Soha Ali Khan, Kunal Khemu, Cyrus Broacha, Simone Singh, Mahesh Manjrekar and Vinod Khanna.On being asked what kind of roles he prefers, Boman asserted: "The moment you say I want to do a role, the story suffers. I don't set priorities in terms of roles or scripts."Although he is not choosy about roles, his favourite character is Lucky Singh from the National Award-winning movie "Lage Raho Munna Bhai"."I like Lucky Singh a lot because he is a confused character. He is a good man but does things in the wrong way. Despite that he is a family man," he said."My favourite co-stars are Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan and Shabana Azmi."Before moving on to the big screen, Boman tried his luck at the family business of selling potato chips, photography and theatre. He also did TV commercials."Nothing was planned in my career. I just went with the flow and took everything that came to me. Selling potato chips was obvious as it was a family business. When friends suggested I should try theatre, I gave it a shot. Then I did a lot of advertisements and then movies happened."However, photography is the only thing that I wanted to do. I still carry my camera wherever I go and keep on taking pictures of anything and everything that excites me. I have thousands of pictures in my collection."I don't know when, but it is definitely in my mind to exhibit my photographs some day."Besides "99", Boman will be seen in "Little Zizou", "Fruit & Nut", "Maharathi", "Three Idiots", "Sorry Bhai", "Banda Yeh Bindaas Hai", "Yuvraaj" and the sequel to "Don...".He has also lent his voice to Nikhil Advani's animation movie "Ab Dilli Door Nahin".Dabbling between his various projects, the actor is satisfied as "acting gives the luxury to create something new every time".Indo-Asian News Service
'I'm not in love with Rahul Mahajan'
Monica Bedi also has no plans to get married, she tells masala.com
by Sonia Sharma
It’s hard to not sympathise with Monica Bedi. Beneath the label of a gangster’s moll lies a delicate, ultra-feminine girl with a steely resolve. Perhaps it was this resolve that made her stick by gangster boyfriend Abu Salem’s side even when he was on the run. Or maybe it was plain and simple love. Whatever it was, all it brought her was nasty jibes and unflattering labels. Now that the storm has passed, calm prevails over Monica. After months of keeping mum, she’s bared her soul finally and is also inking an autobiography on her experiences. She’s ready for a new lease of life, one that reality show “Bigg Boss” has given her, and is working towards making her way back into showbiz. In a frank conversation with masala.com, Monica speaks about why she’s a stronger person today. Excerpts:How’s life treating you these days? Have things changed after Bigg Boss?Yes. A lot for that matter. Life’s a little easier post the show. I am getting good film offers and people have become a little more charitable towards me. They are willing to know me for the person I am and are less judgemental about my past. Do you watch Bigg Boss?Sometimes. Whenever I get the time. Not regularly. Rahul Mahajan was given the song Monica, O My Darling to dance to. What’s your reaction? (Laughs) Jaan bhoojke (deliberately). They did it just to tease Rahul. They don’t want Rahul to forget me.Ahem! Do you want to forget him? You were with him all the time on the show…I’m not in love with him! He is like that with every girl. Does my being with him all the time imply something? I don’t think so. We heard you’re penning an autobiography. Will you bare all in it?I am working on it. If all goes well, I will be done in a few months. Everything I write in it will be 100 per cent truth. I’ll reveal every part of my life, right from my childhood to now. I want people to know about my life. I’m not ashamed of anything I have done. Whatever happened is a part of everything I am. And I have accepted that. Life’s been hard for you. How has your perspective changed?I have become a stronger person due to my experiences. I have also become more careful. Now I try not to see the bad in people. I just accept them as they are. Also, I have become a stronger person – mentally and emotionally. To whom did you turn for support when you were undergoing trial? God. My release has made my belief stronger that there is God. I just wanted the court to acknowledge that I am innocent. I prayed throughout my ordeal that I am proven innocent. I spent five years battling trials, accusations and humiliation. No one can return to me those five wasted years but yes, I am glad I have come out of it. My family too supported me in my bad times. Did anyone from the film industry stick by you?No, not a single person. Even my best friends left me when I was in trouble. Will you allow your autobiography to be made into a film?Let me finish writing it first. Lots of filmmakers have approached me to make a film on my life, but I will decide only after I complete my book. The director should be good – something who does full justice to my story. I wouldn’t want a masala film to be made on my life. Will you act in it too?Yes, I will. I want my acting career back. You have worked earlier with David Dhawan and Rajiv Rai. Have you approached them for a comeback? No, I haven’t approached anyone. But I have been getting offers, some of them pretty good. How has the film industry changed since you were here?There’s a lot of difference. Earlier it was more about the big screen. Film people didn’t want to do television. Now the small screen has grown so much that big stars are also on it. There’s a lot more work available and more opportunities to be tapped.Post Bigg Boss, what’s keeping you busy?Interviews, photo shoots and so on. My autobiography also needs attention. I want to release it in four months. But I hardly get time for it. Suddenly you’re on your own. Does that scare you?Not really. Being independent always feels good. I have been working since the age of 16 years. So I have been on my own for quite some time. It’s not a new feeling. Any plans of getting married? No, not at this point. I want to concentrate solely on acting.
It’s All About Gauri
“The greatest mum, the hottest wife, the best friend – there just isn’t anything that Gauri Khan is not,” says her best friend Karan Johar.
“SRK-Gauri are karmically connected – they are soulmates. I think they’re very lucky to have met one another at such a young age and have had such a beautiful marriage.”At home...“She is the same person at home as she is outside – that’s why she is so special. There’s nothing different – and this is what makes her unique.”As a mum...“She is a totally hands-on mum. She is obsessed with her kids and spends 20 hours of the day with them. They fight like cats and dogs, which is cute. Shah Rukh and Gauri are not strict parents, they are lenient, but are grounded and know where to draw the line.”The first time you met her...“It was with SRK on the sets of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and we connected immediately. We started chatting and in three days we became friends. I knew she was going to be a part of my life forever then.”As a chef...“Gauri can’t cook but tries her hand at desserts. My favourite is this one dessert she makes with ice cream, biscuits and chocolate sauce. The strange concoction tastes great.”As a food lover...“She loves Indian food, but doesn’t like restaurants at all. She prefers being at home.“As a wife...“Gauri is an honest person. What you see, is what you get. She gives SRK his space, and fills that space beautifully. She is his reality check at almost every juncture and keeps everything on level.”As a friend...“She is a very live-and-let-live friend and will always be there for you in whatever circumstances. She is my best friend and will always be.”As the woman SRK fell in love with...“If anyone knew Gauri Khan the way SRK did then, they would have fallen in love with her too. She is one of the nicest human beings I have ever met – very solid. She is clean, honest, and always positive about everything. Her strength of character makes her the way she is – she is a strong woman. Everything that you could look for in a woman or want, you can find in Gauri. She is a beautiful and loving wife.”
‘Mr Bachchan is fun'
She may be new to B’wood, but Miss Sri Lanka Jacqueline Fernandes knows exactly what to say!
She’s already set a record as the first Sri Lankan beauty queen in Bollywood. And she’s making her Bolly debut in a film starring none other than Amitabh Bachchan! Look out for the sexy and savvy Jacqueline Fernandes. She may just emerge as the hottest Gen Y heroine.How did you feel about coming to Bollywood?Before I came into Bollywood a lot of people told me it’s a corrupt industry and you need a godfather to survive in it. Nothing’s really happened to me. I think no one can force you to do things you don’t want to. It all comes down to how you conduct your own self.What was your first day on the sets of Aladin like?I was nervous. I think no matter how many times you have been there and done that in front of the camera, you still have those first-day butterflies every time.How did you react when you met Amitabh?It was great meeting a legend like Mr Bachchan. I was in a state of awe. It’s quite a crazy feeling when you meet an icon. But once you know him he is like any normal person, but with a heart of gold. He is very energetic and fun. Do you think Sanjay is evil enough for his role as ringmaster?I don’t know about how evil he is in real life, but Sanjay is a fantastic actor and manages to pull off any character. He has done something really extraordinary as the ringmaster, as you’ll see.
Genelia's learning Greek!
She wants to be prepared for her trip to Greece
The “Jaane Tu Jaane Na” girl Genelia D'Souza, who is not conversant with Hindi, is all set to learn Greek now! Apparently she is preparing for her visit to Greece where she will be shooting for Anees Bazmee's “It’s my Life” with Harman Baweja. Genelia is learning the basics of the language but she finds it quite difficult. According to sources, she has learnt to speak some basic words in Greek like Good Morning, Good Afternoon etc. As far as we know, Genelia generally finds languages difficult, especially Hindi!
Kareena to launch her own website
It is going to be fashion oriented
Joining the league of international stars like Victoria Beckham, Madonna and Jennifer Lopez, Bollywood actress Kareena Kapoor is all set to launch her own website.The site would inform netizens about the actress' latest fashion trends."Kareena's official website is going to be on an absolutely tech savvy format. It's going to be on the lines of the sites of international stars like Victoria Beckham, Madonna and Jennifer," a source close to the actress revealed on Tuesday.The source added: "Her website is going to be more fashion oriented. The site will have updates not only of Kareena's fashion trends but also other trends that take place all over the globe". The actress has been known for her fashion presence even in the fashion fraternity and looks forward to sharing her trend sense with her fans through the site."She has sound knowledge about the fashion industry and the website will give her a chance to share her fashion knowledge with her fans. There have been a number of occasions when Kareena has even actively participated in designing her own costumes for films," said the source.Kareena is also the brand ambassador of a global fashion retail chain Globus.Indo-Asian News Service For www.masala.com/newsletter
Oscar bound film’s director denied US visa
US consulate in Mumbai did not know Paresh Mokashi
Paresh Mokashi, whose Marathi film "Harishchandrachi Factory" has been selected as India's official entry to the Oscars, is stuck without a visa to the US.The US consulate in Mumbai refused to give him the visa, saying they didn't know him or that his film is going for the Oscars. "I don't really blame them. I didn't have a face that was instantly recognisable. They didn't know who I was. And I had no papers to prove that this disoriented looking man had made a film that had been sent to the Oscars," Mokashi told IANS. The director had no papers, not even a letter from the Academy Awards committee to prove his eligibility for the visa because he had given all the documents to his producers - UTV. "Whatever intimation I received about the Oscar entry from the US, I handed over to UTV. But, of course, the US consulate didn't say I was lying. They rightly felt I was not eligible until I had the documents. This was my first encounter for an American visa. And naturally my first trip to the US," said Mokashi. "The only time I've been abroad was to London to shoot a part of 'Hrishchandrachi Factory'. So I was completely unaware of how things work. I don't know how to handle it," added the director who had to mortgage his property to make the film. UTV had to step in to rescue the director, who needs to be in LA from Nov 2. "The US consulate has promised to give me a visa after taking my passport. They said they'd grant me a visa. Let's see. They had yet to decide for how long and in what capacity. They seem to have a very thin line dividing the people who want to visit for genuine reasons from those who are wrongly motivated," he said. Mokashi hopes to be in the US for 25 days in November to promote the film for the Oscars. "I need to understand the situation. I've never been to the Oscars, have no idea of how the Oscars work. I also need to be back for the film's release in India. Then I return to the US to be with the film till the Oscars," he said. Indo-Asian News Service
Kalki and beau Anurag Kashyap scripting a film together
He thinks she’s a better writer than him
"Dev D" actress Kalki Koechlin says her boyfriend Anurag Kashyap, who has written screenplays and dialogues for memorable films like "Satya" and "Black Friday", thinks she is a better writer than him."Anurag thinks he is a useless writer. He thinks I'm a much better dialogue writer than him. He thinks a lot about the whole plot and not so much about the individual dialogues," Kalki, who made her acting debut with Kashyap's directorial venture "Dev D", told IANS in an interview in New Delhi. "But I don't think I can ever direct anything like him because I don't have that overall vision. I can never think of the whole script, which I think is the director's forte. I can only write for the moment," added the 26-year-old who is co-scripting a film with her beau. "Anurag and I are doing a film together, which is very exciting. But I can't talk anything about it right now except that it's a thriller. "It's his idea. He narrated it to me a year back and asked me if I wanted to write it. I initially denied because I didn't think I could take that responsibility but then I wrote the first draft and he transformed it by adding more pieces and putting them together to give it the form of a story," she explained. Kalki describes Kashyap as an open minded director. "He gives you the space and lets you do things on your own. He always gives a chance to the deserving," she said, on the sidelines of the 11th edition of the annual Osian's Cinefan Film Festival of Asian and Arab Cinema. Talking about her relationship with Kashyap, she said: "Being together with him has worked a lot in our professional life too because we have been constantly challenging our creative sensibilities. Both of us are very intense in the way we think and take things." Before venturing into films with "Dev D", she studied "drama and theatre in university" and "majored in scriptwriting and acting". The film is a contemporary interpretation of Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay's classic novel "Devdas" and Kalki played the role of a prostitute Chanda in it. Born to French parents, Kalki apparently took Hindi lessons for "Dev D" and is still working on her dialect and diction. "I still have to work a lot on it (Hindi)," said the actress who is fluent in French and Tamil. Her other projects are Bijoy Nambiar's "Shaitan" and Kaizad Gustad's next. Kalki's wish list also includes penning "a book someday". Indo-Asian News Service
Ranbir, Katrina dazzle on the ramp
Saturday, 31 October, 2009Everything about Rohit Bal’s show was grand
Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif sashayed down the ramp at the grand finale of the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week (WIFW) for designer Rohit Bal (pictured left), bringing down the curtains on the five-day event in style on Wednesday (Oct 28) night.Dressed in an embroidered white sherwani, Ranbir managed to steal the hearts of many girls in the audience, who couldn't stop gushing about the star's chocolaty looks. Pretty Katrina Kaif, attired in a short white dress, looked like a Barbie doll. Another highlight of the show was a live performance by Orissa's Prince Dance Group that recently won the dance reality show "India's Got Talent". Since Bal is always associated with grandeur, the sets reflected flamboyance and style. The glass ramp had gold lotus flowers underneath. The main show area was draped with golden curtains. Complementing the ambience perfectly were the clothes that talked about the Mughal era when India was the land of maharajas (kings). The collection was appropriately called Yasas, which means grand in Sanskrit. Talking about his collection, Bal said: "The collection is a reflection of incredible talent that we have in India in terms of artisans and craftsmanship. The line is an ode to India's rich heritage." "It is about India, which was once known as the 'Golden Peacock'. Through this line, I am bringing that golden era back to India," he added. The collection had a mix of brocades, velvets in the pre-Mughal and Mughal designs like long and short anarkalis, sherwanis, jodhpuri pants, dresses and long coats. The collection will also be retailed through Wills Lifestyle outlets across India. Indo-Asian News Service
Only brother Farhan has been finalised among cast
Saturday, 31 October, 2009He was her last resort for her critically-acclaimed directorial debut "Luck By Chance". But for her second film Zoya Akhtar has specially written a part for brother Farhan."It's a road movie set in Spain about three boys and one of the three characters is definitely Farhan. I knew I wanted him. I was very clear that I wanted to work with him again," said Zoya. Daughter of well-known lyricist Javed Akhtar, Zoya informed that her writer filmmaker-actor brother will not only act in the film, but also pen the dialogues for it. "I am writing this film with Reema Kagti. I'm wrapping up the script but as of now it is not locked yet. Then probably I'll sit with Farhan for the dialogues and the casting," she said. Throwing light on the film, she said: "It's a coming of age genre. But it'll be simpler than ‘Luck By Chance' and simpler to understand. A feel-good factor will be there in that sense," said Zoya on the sidelines of the ongoing 11th annual Osian's Cinefan Film Festival of Asian and Arab Cinema in New Delhi. Asked is her movie was in any sense a follow up to the upcoming Abhay Deol-starrer "Road Movie", she said: "The trend's been there. Look at ‘Jab We Met'. It is a road film. It's got that vibe of a road movie. And the promos to the ‘Road Movie' are gorgeous too."Indo-Asian News Service
The uninhibited spa: Goa, India
Ayurvedic massage, decadent body oils and exotic aromas.
By Carly Milne
By Carly Milne
The Spa at The Leela Kempinski hotel, Goa, India, theleela.com/hotel-goa.html.
Situated on 75 acres of land, The Spa at the Leela Kempinski Goa is the perfect seaside getaway. With an open-air lobby, a carved stone embellishment and a majestic statue of Shiva at the end of a seemingly endless hallway, the spa exudes tranquility. On the grounds, there are fruit plantations and a spice farm, and daily yoga and meditation classes promote health and wellness. While the spa offers typical Western services in its eight treatment rooms, it specializes in traditional Indian treatments. After stripping down for my Ayurvedic massage, I don my cloth robe and select a soundtrack of serene chanting. As the massage begins, warm oil is poured onto my head and then slathered all over my naked torso—which is not covered by a towel or sheet. This is not a treatment for the bashful spa-goer. Putting my inhibitions aside, I get into the zone and let go. It’s well worth it—the end result is soft, supple, glowing skin. In your own backyard:
Vida Spa, The Sutton Place Hotel, 845 Burrard St., Vancouver, 604-682-8410, vidawellness.com. For Vida’s 90-minute Ayurvedic Shirodhara treatment ($190), custom-blended oil is heated and poured over your naked body from head to toe (albeit under a sheet), following an all-over body massage. —Adriana Ermter
Find out how to get this spa experience at home.
Situated on 75 acres of land, The Spa at the Leela Kempinski Goa is the perfect seaside getaway. With an open-air lobby, a carved stone embellishment and a majestic statue of Shiva at the end of a seemingly endless hallway, the spa exudes tranquility. On the grounds, there are fruit plantations and a spice farm, and daily yoga and meditation classes promote health and wellness. While the spa offers typical Western services in its eight treatment rooms, it specializes in traditional Indian treatments. After stripping down for my Ayurvedic massage, I don my cloth robe and select a soundtrack of serene chanting. As the massage begins, warm oil is poured onto my head and then slathered all over my naked torso—which is not covered by a towel or sheet. This is not a treatment for the bashful spa-goer. Putting my inhibitions aside, I get into the zone and let go. It’s well worth it—the end result is soft, supple, glowing skin. In your own backyard:
Vida Spa, The Sutton Place Hotel, 845 Burrard St., Vancouver, 604-682-8410, vidawellness.com. For Vida’s 90-minute Ayurvedic Shirodhara treatment ($190), custom-blended oil is heated and poured over your naked body from head to toe (albeit under a sheet), following an all-over body massage. —Adriana Ermter
Find out how to get this spa experience at home.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Fall/Winter 2009-2010 Jewelry Trends
Lanvin, Jason Wu (Susan Tabak of chic in paris/mediasugar.com) Statement Necklaces
These necklaces flaunt large gemstones and/or over-sized shapes against muted color schemes. Look for eclectic bold pieces that infuse various textures within the design such as ribbons vs. metal and woods vs. gemstones. These necklaces are to be worn with little if any other jewelry. They are a great way to stay on trend while exuding a look that seems like it required a minimal effort.
Fall/Winter 2009-2010 Jewelry Trends
Armani (Susan Tabak of chic in paris)Statement Necklaces
These brassy accessories are still making a huge impact in the fashion world. Designers such as Lanvin, Stella McCartney, Giorgio Armani and Chanel are adorning their models with these bold pieces in a variety of gasp-inducing ways.
Winter 2009 Trends: Fur Snoods
Matthew Williamson, Michael Kors, Nicole Miller, Peter Som, Rachel Comey
Snoods are this season’s style essential and the chicest way to stay warm this fall. What can add an elegant touch and distinctive look to your fall ensemble more than a luxurious fur snood?
To elevate your cool weather chic, loop it around your neck with sweater dresses, slouchy knits, or wear it on your head with lots of layering.
To elevate your cool weather chic, loop it around your neck with sweater dresses, slouchy knits, or wear it on your head with lots of layering.
Winter 2009 Trends: Fur Snoods
Matthew Williamson, Michael Kors, Nicole Miller, Peter Som, Rachel ComeySnoods are this season’s style essential and the chicest way to stay warm this fall. What can add an elegant touch and distinctive look to your fall ensemble more than a luxurious fur snood?
To elevate your cool weather chic, loop it around your neck with sweater dresses, slouchy knits, or wear it on your head with lots of layering.
Winter 2009 Trends: Fur Snoods
Snoods are this season’s style essential and the chicest way to stay warm this fall. What can add an elegant touch and distinctive look to your fall ensemble more than a luxurious fur snood?
To elevate your cool weather chic, loop it around your neck with sweater dresses, slouchy knits, or wear it on your head with lots of layering.
To elevate your cool weather chic, loop it around your neck with sweater dresses, slouchy knits, or wear it on your head with lots of layering.
Donna Karan, Douglas Hannant, Giles, Iceberg, Isaac Mizrahi
Winter 2009 Trends: Fur Snoods
Snoods are this season’s style essential and the chicest way to stay warm this fall. What can add an elegant touch and distinctive look to your fall ensemble more than a luxurious fur snood?
To elevate your cool weather chic, loop it around your neck with sweater dresses, slouchy knits, or wear it on your head with lots of layering.
To elevate your cool weather chic, loop it around your neck with sweater dresses, slouchy knits, or wear it on your head with lots of layering.
Burberry, Christian Dior, Christian Lacroix, Cushnie et Ochs, DKNY
Friday, October 9, 2009
Faux yet fabulous wristwatches in clear or coloured plastic keep you rocking around the clock.Editor’s Tip: Looking good has never felt this good. A percentage of every Bobby H Bobby sale goes toward helping the Darfur crisis.Bobby H Bobby watch, $150. Visit bobbyhbobby.com.
METALLIC CLUTCHES,
This season, gold, silver and bronze are the colours of choice when it comes to accessorizing. Try the trend with a cute clutch—it’s the easiest way to add a bit of bling to your wardrobe without investing in the real thing.Lauren Merkin clutch (gold), $325, and Felix Rey clutch (silver), $295. Both at Augustina (5 Old York
Thursday, October 8, 2009
WILFRED"S FAUX-LEATHER LEGGINGS
So much for not shopping! I blew that big time when I deked out of work early recently to hit Aritzia (aritzia.com). I am absolutely blown away by their in-house Wilfred line. I’ve been watching it for a few seasons but WOW has it ever exploded–great styling and just the prices I’m willing to shell out for all the season’s “it” pieces. Faux-leather leggings (shown) are a such a steal at $98 (looking ever so much like the Helmut Lang ones at 10, count ‘em 10 times the price!!), that they’ve found their way into numerous FASHION editors’ closets. But I didn’t stop there–a perfect boyfriend jacket, floaty tunic dress and perfectly-shaped black cardigan later I’m a happy camper.
Winter 2009-10 Beauty Trends
Geisha Graphics:
Beauty travelled farther East this season with references to Japanese fiction popping up at Betty Jackson and Dior. Make like Manga and lift your look straight outta Japanese comic books, for a twisted take on colour and cartoon á la Ashish, or opt for a dreamier approach with a cherry blossom palette, adopted by Make-up Artist Romi Soleimani for Adam; “[This look is] inspired by Japanese watercolour and the way the colours mix, diffuse and blend.” Either way, we intrepid beauty junkies can’t get enough of this contemporary turn on the classic Geisha. Konnichiwa! As seen at: Ashish
Autumn/Winter 2009-10 Beauty Trends
…Twilight… The nation’s current obsession with all things ‘Vampire’ has extended to the realms of beauty as catwalks showcased stony, sculptured faces with ethereal complexions and berry stained lips. “Highlighting and contouring is seriously back,” says Make-up Artist Charlotte Tilbury, “…thinking about the contrasts between matte and shimmer, and light versus dark.” Whilst faces at Alessandro Dell’ Acqua teamed icy shimmer with burnished red for an other-worldly, statue-style finish, Moschino Cheap & Chic teamed waxy skin and wet-look eyes with Vampire-esque just-bitten pouts. This look has all the qualities of a classic Gothic romance, so get ready to fall in love Twilight-style. As seen at: Bottega Veneta
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
FALL 2009 TREND GUIDE
This fall, be simply irresistible in ‘80s-flavoured dresses. Paint the town red. Give them the strong shoulder. Rediscover the suit. Get back to fashion.
FALL 2009 BEAUTY GUIDE
This fall has two faces: Electric ’80s and soft glam. Fuschia lips and dizzying pompadours share a season with soft curls and eyelids layered with the new neutrals. Revel in the season’s split personality.
Winter 2009
WHO?
Liisa Winkler
WHAT'S SHE WEARING?
Dress, price on request, by Dolce & Gabbana, shoes, $750, by Chanel, and bracelets from top: $45, by Accentrix, $115 and $115, both by Merx, $980, by Yves Saint Laurent, $160, by Merx, $45, by Accentrix and $115, by Merx.
Photographed by Miguel Jacob and styled by George Antonopoulos for artistgrouplimited.com. Hair and makeup by Greg Wencel for Plutino Group.
Photographed by Miguel Jacob and styled by George Antonopoulos for artistgrouplimited.com. Hair and makeup by Greg Wencel for Plutino Group.
CREDIT
Photographed by Miguel Jacob and styled by George Antonopoulos for artistgrouplimited.com. Hair and makeup by Greg Wencel for Plutino Group.
Perfume with Perks
We’ve found the calorie-free equivalent of your 3 p.m. sugar fix. Scents that include ginger or mandarin are instant mood boosters. Simply spritz for a quick pick-me-up.Editor’s Tip: Light fragrances like these are a great alternative for those who find perfume overpowering. Decléor Arôme Euphoric Uplifting Body Treatment Fragrance, $61. Available at The Bay
The Power Hour
Build your watch wardrobe with an oversized men’s-style watch for work or weekend. Editor’s Tip: Want to up the elegance factor? Opt for mother-of-pearl and crystal details for a feminine touch. You’ll be right on trend…and time.Guess watch, $165. Available at The Bay, Sears and Guess across Canada. Call 800-263-0981.
Nautical Style
Polka-dot bikinis and nautical stripes are best with gorgeous skin. To achieve your best glow? Exfoliation is an easy way to give your legs and arms a delicate sheen. De-Lovely Sugar Body Scrub, $25, in “Vanilla Blossom.” Visit delovelybeauty.com.
Crafty Accessories
Feathers, beading…have all of this season’s crafty designer threads given you a bad case of runway envy? You can still get the look with a well-chosen accessory. For boho style with an urban twist, try just a touch of crochet or macramé.Casa di Minea earrings, $145. At select Holt Renfrew stores across Canada, holtrenfrew.com.
Jetsetter: Bahia
South America offers something for everyone, at a fraction of the cost.
By Viia Beaumanis
By Viia Beaumanis
If you really want to get away from it all, you’d be hard pressed to find a more stunning hideaway than Txai Resort. A two-hour flight and 50-minute drive from São Paolo, the 40-villa compound in Brazil’s eastern province of Bahia is nestled in the rainforest and flanked by five kilometres of private white-sand beach. Just five years old, its carefully developed 96 acres offer a self-sustaining, eco-friendly ultraluxury escape. Unpublicized, too-chic-to-advertise Txai is frequented by wealthy Brazilians and Europeans and offers a library, two restaurants, a hilltop spa and an art-filled main house. Its bungalows are strewn along a beachfront equipped with two wonderfully glam pools. From horseback riding and surfing classes to sailing and river tours, an array of excursions can be arranged. After dinner, visit the vibrant town of Itacaré, where the festive, dance-happy vibe is fuelled by capetas, a cocktail of chocolate, ground peanuts, condensed milk and energy-boosting guarana, as well as vodka or cachaça.
The Body Glossary: Scars
The ingredients you need to deal with this body issue.
By Liza Finlay
By Liza Finlay
Scars can make an unsightly impression. They form whenever skin is damaged—whether from a small trauma (a popped pimple), an injury (a fall from skyscraper stilettos) or invasive surgery. In response to the injury, the skin attempts to repair itself by releasing growth factors, which then induce collagen production. The type of scar you get depends on how assiduously your collagen-production plants work. If they’re the lazy sort, you’ll wind up with a skin depression called an atrophic scar. If your collagen factories go into overdrive, collagen cells will build up at the site of the injury, resulting in a raised red (hypertrophic or keloid) scar.
The trick to treating scars—apart from avoiding heels and developing a fondness for ballet flats—is to control those crazy collagen cells while they’re at work on a developing scar. “You want to optimize the healing process,” says Toronto dermatologist Dr. Lisa Kellett of DLK on Avenue. “Keeping the wound clean, moist and infection-free is key—and above all, no picking, which can increase the scarring.” Once fully formed, scars have limited treatment options, but the development of over-the-counter remedies is an area of keen interest to many dermatologists, so stay tuned.
Antibiotic ointments: Because an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of concealer, regular application of a topical antibiotic to a developing scar will keep it both moist and infection-free—and that may mean the difference between an ugly mark and one that is virtually invisible. Where to get it: Polysporin Complete Antibiotic Ointment Heal-Fast Formula ($10, at drugstores) and Band-Aid Antibiotic Bandages ($5, at drugstores).
Silicone: Sold in a gel or a sheet (much like bandages), synthetic silicones are the interior decorators of the cosmetic world; they remodel collagen, causing it to flatten out and tone down. It is unclear exactly how silicone manages this feat (the most widely held theory is that silicone has an occlusive effect, locking out air and locking in water to hydrate the scar); what is certain is that silicone is particularly useful for the raised red (hypertrophic) variety of scar. Where to get it: Elastoplast Scar Reducer ($30, at drugstores), Dermatix Topical Silicone Gel ($50, plasticsurgeryinfo.ca), Sudden Change Scar Zone Topical Scar Diminishing Cream ($14, at drugstores) and Polysporin Scar Solution Silicone Scar Sheets ($45, at drugstores).
Vitamin A acid: Effective at marshalling the troops, vitamin A acid has been shown to help remodel collagen, creating subcutaneous uniformity and a smoothing effect to the eye. Prescription tretinoin is the most potent derivative, while the grocery store variety (called retinol) offers a milder version of this powerful collagen-booster. Whichever you choose, these products prove most useful in treating concave (atrophic) scars.Where to get it: Vaseline Intensive Care Renewal Lotion (from $6, at drugstores), Guinot Institut Longue Vie Cellulaire ($102, at 800-361-6089) and Korres Body Butter ($23, sephora.com).
The trick to treating scars—apart from avoiding heels and developing a fondness for ballet flats—is to control those crazy collagen cells while they’re at work on a developing scar. “You want to optimize the healing process,” says Toronto dermatologist Dr. Lisa Kellett of DLK on Avenue. “Keeping the wound clean, moist and infection-free is key—and above all, no picking, which can increase the scarring.” Once fully formed, scars have limited treatment options, but the development of over-the-counter remedies is an area of keen interest to many dermatologists, so stay tuned.
Antibiotic ointments: Because an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of concealer, regular application of a topical antibiotic to a developing scar will keep it both moist and infection-free—and that may mean the difference between an ugly mark and one that is virtually invisible. Where to get it: Polysporin Complete Antibiotic Ointment Heal-Fast Formula ($10, at drugstores) and Band-Aid Antibiotic Bandages ($5, at drugstores).
Silicone: Sold in a gel or a sheet (much like bandages), synthetic silicones are the interior decorators of the cosmetic world; they remodel collagen, causing it to flatten out and tone down. It is unclear exactly how silicone manages this feat (the most widely held theory is that silicone has an occlusive effect, locking out air and locking in water to hydrate the scar); what is certain is that silicone is particularly useful for the raised red (hypertrophic) variety of scar. Where to get it: Elastoplast Scar Reducer ($30, at drugstores), Dermatix Topical Silicone Gel ($50, plasticsurgeryinfo.ca), Sudden Change Scar Zone Topical Scar Diminishing Cream ($14, at drugstores) and Polysporin Scar Solution Silicone Scar Sheets ($45, at drugstores).
Vitamin A acid: Effective at marshalling the troops, vitamin A acid has been shown to help remodel collagen, creating subcutaneous uniformity and a smoothing effect to the eye. Prescription tretinoin is the most potent derivative, while the grocery store variety (called retinol) offers a milder version of this powerful collagen-booster. Whichever you choose, these products prove most useful in treating concave (atrophic) scars.Where to get it: Vaseline Intensive Care Renewal Lotion (from $6, at drugstores), Guinot Institut Longue Vie Cellulaire ($102, at 800-361-6089) and Korres Body Butter ($23, sephora.com).
Deseo: Scent number eight from JLo
Jennifer Lopez throws a garden party for her latest fragrance.
By Kim Izzo
Photography by Maya Carvalho
By Kim Izzo
Photography by Maya Carvalho
The description “diamond in the rough” isn’t one that instantly conjures up an image of Jennifer Lopez; on the contrary, the sultry performer is more likely to evoke a vision of finely spun silk. In the hundreds of photographs we’ve seen of JLo strutting on the red carpet, onscreen or onstage, the word “rough” doesn’t exactly typify. Yet that was the exact phrase used by Catherine Walsh, senior vice-president of American fragrances at Coty Prestige, to describe how Lopez looked one night when they met to discuss her new fragrance, Deseo (from $46, at department stores). Upon hearing herself thus described, Lopez is said to have envisioned the flacon for the scent. Set to hit store shelves in March, Lopez’s eighth fragrance is her most sophisticated so far.
Lopez is reclining in the corner of a banquette in a penthouse at Manhattan’s Royalton hotel. Her soft grey dress hangs loosely, but it is still obvious that she is several months into her first pregnancy. Her energy is upbeat and she’s excited as she discusses Deseo—which means “desire” in Spanish. The creation of the fragrance didn’t come as easily to her as her earlier ones, like Glow. In fact, it was only after several meetings with Coty’s creative minds but not nailing “it” that it just occurred to Lopez to take Walsh on a tour of the garden at her new L.A. home. “I’m lucky enough to have a really beautiful English rose garden,” explains Lopez. “We have, I don’t know, 30 types of roses, and there’s lavender and rosemary and lemon trees. And when the people from Coty came to talk about doing our next fragrance, I thought to myself, you have to walk through the garden with me. There’s this one area where the stairs are, and when it rains the wood gets wet, and with the combination of all the other smells of the garden, it’s just so amazing.”
The finished scent takes in all of these floral and herbal elements with top notes of watery bamboo leaves, Sicilian bergamot and freesias. The middle notes offer up star jasmine, orange blossoms and French mimosa. The base of the scent, with warm amber, oak moss, sandalwood, atlas cedarwood and patchouli, is where it gets its lingering sex appeal.
“I look at Deseo and I look at the other things we’ve done, and I’m very proud of all of them, but they feel a little girlish to me, and this one feels more like a woman,” Lopez explains. “You can’t keep trying to act like you’re something you’re not anymore. You mature, you evolve, you grow, and that’s what makes people respond to you—they can grow with you. The girls who were buying Glow are not in the same place they were then. They’re different now.”
Personal evolution is something Lopez embraces. It is, after all, the key to remaining at the top of a fickle entertainment biz. Having gone from Fly Girl to romantic comedy heroine and back to her roots with the Spanish-language album Como Ama una Mujer and the film El Cantante with her husband, Marc Anthony, Lopez understands how to navigate the system, so she doesn’t get lumped into a category where less talented stars languish. Reinvention and aging gracefully are things Lopez, at 38, manages to make look easy.
But does aging bring her any anxiety about her career and her beauty? “I still feel very new as an artist, just because I haven’t accomplished all I want to accomplish, and in that sense I don’t think of it in terms of age,” she explains. “So long as you look like you should be singing that song and it’s truthful, or you fit that role, then it’s OK. But as far as beauty, just like any other woman, I start thinking, oh, wow, what do I do when this starts happening? How do I feel about this? You worry about it. You remember when you were 18 and how easy everything was, and things aren’t as easy anymore, and you don’t look exactly the same. But it’s really about who you are on the inside, and what you bring to people around you.”
Given the immense success Lopez has had professionally, the question remains, what is it she personally desires the most now? “Oh, gosh, when you’re somebody like me…there’s always desire. I think I’ll be 80 years old and trying to think of something else to do. There will be something else I want to accomplish. There will be something else I want to create. Honestly, I believe that’s just how God made me.”
Lopez is reclining in the corner of a banquette in a penthouse at Manhattan’s Royalton hotel. Her soft grey dress hangs loosely, but it is still obvious that she is several months into her first pregnancy. Her energy is upbeat and she’s excited as she discusses Deseo—which means “desire” in Spanish. The creation of the fragrance didn’t come as easily to her as her earlier ones, like Glow. In fact, it was only after several meetings with Coty’s creative minds but not nailing “it” that it just occurred to Lopez to take Walsh on a tour of the garden at her new L.A. home. “I’m lucky enough to have a really beautiful English rose garden,” explains Lopez. “We have, I don’t know, 30 types of roses, and there’s lavender and rosemary and lemon trees. And when the people from Coty came to talk about doing our next fragrance, I thought to myself, you have to walk through the garden with me. There’s this one area where the stairs are, and when it rains the wood gets wet, and with the combination of all the other smells of the garden, it’s just so amazing.”
The finished scent takes in all of these floral and herbal elements with top notes of watery bamboo leaves, Sicilian bergamot and freesias. The middle notes offer up star jasmine, orange blossoms and French mimosa. The base of the scent, with warm amber, oak moss, sandalwood, atlas cedarwood and patchouli, is where it gets its lingering sex appeal.
“I look at Deseo and I look at the other things we’ve done, and I’m very proud of all of them, but they feel a little girlish to me, and this one feels more like a woman,” Lopez explains. “You can’t keep trying to act like you’re something you’re not anymore. You mature, you evolve, you grow, and that’s what makes people respond to you—they can grow with you. The girls who were buying Glow are not in the same place they were then. They’re different now.”
Personal evolution is something Lopez embraces. It is, after all, the key to remaining at the top of a fickle entertainment biz. Having gone from Fly Girl to romantic comedy heroine and back to her roots with the Spanish-language album Como Ama una Mujer and the film El Cantante with her husband, Marc Anthony, Lopez understands how to navigate the system, so she doesn’t get lumped into a category where less talented stars languish. Reinvention and aging gracefully are things Lopez, at 38, manages to make look easy.
But does aging bring her any anxiety about her career and her beauty? “I still feel very new as an artist, just because I haven’t accomplished all I want to accomplish, and in that sense I don’t think of it in terms of age,” she explains. “So long as you look like you should be singing that song and it’s truthful, or you fit that role, then it’s OK. But as far as beauty, just like any other woman, I start thinking, oh, wow, what do I do when this starts happening? How do I feel about this? You worry about it. You remember when you were 18 and how easy everything was, and things aren’t as easy anymore, and you don’t look exactly the same. But it’s really about who you are on the inside, and what you bring to people around you.”
Given the immense success Lopez has had professionally, the question remains, what is it she personally desires the most now? “Oh, gosh, when you’re somebody like me…there’s always desire. I think I’ll be 80 years old and trying to think of something else to do. There will be something else I want to accomplish. There will be something else I want to create. Honestly, I believe that’s just how God made me.”
Femme Fatale
Taking its cue from Tinseltown once again, the minds behind fashion and beauty trends for Fall 2007 sent models down the catwalk looking as though they’d stepped out of a George Hurrell photograph. At Valentino, Gucci and Roberto Cavalli, the look was all red lips, strong brows, precise liner, wavy tresses and complexion perfection.
“Cavalli reminisced about 1940s Old Hollywood—a time when masculinity was introduced into the Western female’s genre, creating beautifully simplistic, strong, feminine looks,” explains Lisa Butler, the makeup artist behind the Italian designer’s show. “Veronica Lake was iconic of this period, not just for creating a trend of peekaboo hairstyles, but also because she captivated audiences with her sultry, strong, glossy makeup look. I chose her as my inspiration because of this.”
Who wouldn’t want to channel Hollywood glamour goddesses such as Lake, Rita Hayworth, Ava Gardner and the like? Even today’s stars are hopping on the trend, both on- and off-screen—take Scarlett Johansson in The Black Dahlia or at the Golden Globes, for one. The look was so strong in The Good German that you knew Cate Blanchett’s lips were red, even though the movie was shot in black and white. Jennifer Connelly and Penélope Cruz have all sported the look.
This December, Keira Knightley will show her 1940s face in the highly anticipated film Atonement. Keeping up such a polished appearance may seem like too much bother in these times of quick fixes, but with a stroke of red across the lips or a hit of charcoal on the eyelid, anyone can summon her inner Lauren Bacall—and keep her cool, no matter what the day may bring.
“Cavalli reminisced about 1940s Old Hollywood—a time when masculinity was introduced into the Western female’s genre, creating beautifully simplistic, strong, feminine looks,” explains Lisa Butler, the makeup artist behind the Italian designer’s show. “Veronica Lake was iconic of this period, not just for creating a trend of peekaboo hairstyles, but also because she captivated audiences with her sultry, strong, glossy makeup look. I chose her as my inspiration because of this.”
Who wouldn’t want to channel Hollywood glamour goddesses such as Lake, Rita Hayworth, Ava Gardner and the like? Even today’s stars are hopping on the trend, both on- and off-screen—take Scarlett Johansson in The Black Dahlia or at the Golden Globes, for one. The look was so strong in The Good German that you knew Cate Blanchett’s lips were red, even though the movie was shot in black and white. Jennifer Connelly and Penélope Cruz have all sported the look.
This December, Keira Knightley will show her 1940s face in the highly anticipated film Atonement. Keeping up such a polished appearance may seem like too much bother in these times of quick fixes, but with a stroke of red across the lips or a hit of charcoal on the eyelid, anyone can summon her inner Lauren Bacall—and keep her cool, no matter what the day may bring.
Kim Izzo reports on the resurgence of Old Hollywood glamour.
Photography by Peter Stigter.
Photography by Peter Stigter.
Scoop: Your winter beauty roundup
THE BRIGHT SIDE
Cheer up beauty. All the frazzle of party prep shouldn't get you down. All your winter beauty news is right here.
CALL ME KELLY
We covet Kelly, whether she’s original angel Kelly Garrett or ABC sweetheart Ms. Ripa. But the most beloved of all: Grace Kelly and her Hermès namesake handbag, the Kelly. Recently, a new incarnation was born with the Kelly Calèche fragrance (from $88, at Hermès) by Parisian luxury house Hermès.
And the name’s ancestry is not lost on the bottle; designer Philippe Mouquet incorporated the bag’s leather straps, turn-lock clasp and metal plates. Combine it all with a fresh, sexy scent, and we’re contemplating a pseudonym.
FIRST AID
We channel Calamity Jane, so we’re pawning off our belly-aches, bumps and bruises to Niche (from $6, productsbyniche.com), a line of wellness and healing products for the bath, body and beyond. Each environmentally friendly product, including the Muscle Ease Balm, Calendula Cream, Immunity Bath Soak and Bruise Aid, contains a therapeutic combination of essential oils to relieve our every whimper. And all are packaged in recyclable glass.
A FULL SET
The girls have grown. They’re bigger and fuller than ever before. And we’ve got fashion and the arts to thank for the flapper trend for lashes. Erin Fetherston’s Spring 2008 runway gazelles left us wide-eyed, while Cirque du Soleil’s Zumanity performance inspires with uninhibited style.
Flaunting the perfect set: M.A.C’s clear-banded, intentionally imperfect and shorter-width false eyelashes in 11 unique new styles ($13, at M.A.C). When it comes to the girls, perky is always better.
Cheer up beauty. All the frazzle of party prep shouldn't get you down. All your winter beauty news is right here.
CALL ME KELLY
We covet Kelly, whether she’s original angel Kelly Garrett or ABC sweetheart Ms. Ripa. But the most beloved of all: Grace Kelly and her Hermès namesake handbag, the Kelly. Recently, a new incarnation was born with the Kelly Calèche fragrance (from $88, at Hermès) by Parisian luxury house Hermès.
And the name’s ancestry is not lost on the bottle; designer Philippe Mouquet incorporated the bag’s leather straps, turn-lock clasp and metal plates. Combine it all with a fresh, sexy scent, and we’re contemplating a pseudonym.
FIRST AID
We channel Calamity Jane, so we’re pawning off our belly-aches, bumps and bruises to Niche (from $6, productsbyniche.com), a line of wellness and healing products for the bath, body and beyond. Each environmentally friendly product, including the Muscle Ease Balm, Calendula Cream, Immunity Bath Soak and Bruise Aid, contains a therapeutic combination of essential oils to relieve our every whimper. And all are packaged in recyclable glass.
A FULL SET
The girls have grown. They’re bigger and fuller than ever before. And we’ve got fashion and the arts to thank for the flapper trend for lashes. Erin Fetherston’s Spring 2008 runway gazelles left us wide-eyed, while Cirque du Soleil’s Zumanity performance inspires with uninhibited style.
Flaunting the perfect set: M.A.C’s clear-banded, intentionally imperfect and shorter-width false eyelashes in 11 unique new styles ($13, at M.A.C). When it comes to the girls, perky is always better.
Our report on the latest beauty news and products.
By Adriana Ermter
Photography by Peter Stigter
By Adriana Ermter
Photography by Peter Stigter
Heritage tweeds enforced fall's ladylike message.
Heritage tweeds enforced fall's ladylike message. {FALL 2009 TRENDS GUIDE}
ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Fall 2009
Fall 2009 runway report: Texture message
Rich velvets, sumptuous suedes and heritage tweeds lend a soft touch to hard-shell chic. {FALL 2009 TRENDS GUIDE}
Photography by Peter Stigter
Photography by Peter Stigter
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Dreamy Lula is a London Fashion Week "must read"
The cover of new fashion magazine, Lula, is seen in this undated handout photo.[Agencies]
LONDON - A new fashion magazine built on daydreams, fantasy and fairy-tales in an unashamed flirtation with teenaged girls has become this season's "must read" at London Fashion Week.
Praised in internet forums and fashion blogs, and squabbled over in shops, Lula's mix of soft, feminine clothes explored in wistfully nostalgic stories has gained cult status and led to a relationship with Britain's highly successful Topshop store.
In the get-rich quick world of fashion, Lula has opted for the minimum advertising and has managed to get celebrity editors such as U.S. movie star Kirsten Dunst to heighten the sense of intimacy which has entranced the young fashion crowd.
It started in 2005 when British photographer Damon Heath and Canadian stylist Leith Clark, decided to create a unique magazine, something which would be distinct from, "the rest of the pack, the run of the mill magazines."
"The exact genesis is quite hard to place," Heath told Reuters. "But I had already worked with Leith maybe 10 times. We had done some work in magazines, but a lot of them look a bit shoddy. That set me thinking that it couldn't be that expensive to do it, and I thought that if we can make it look as good as possible, that will even out any editorial quirks."
Editorial quirks, however, when Leith Clark is the editor, are no bad thing. The 30-year-old has never shied away from the fact that she never really wanted to grow up, and the magazine is a real reflection of this.
Indulging itself in the world of daydreams, fantasies and all things feminine, Clark's one aim from the start was, "to make a magazine that I wanted to read."
In fact it was Clark's unique take on fashion and style that enabled Lula to quickly establish a loyal, fervent, and most importantly international fan base.
Australian sub-culture website twothousand.com described Lula magazine as: "the kind of girl you'd have a crush on. Or be intimidated by. Or want to be best friends with. Or all three," Lula is a vision that has captured the imagination of the young teens who idolize people such as model Kate Moss.
FANTASIES AND DREAMS
"To me," Clark explains, "fantasies and dreams are vital." There are very few adverts, and Heath says that this was a conscious decision.
"I don't really like materialism. So that's what we wanted to get away from. Nothing has come from a commercial starting point, it's not been, 'what's the best way to make money?' It's come from an aesthetic feeling."
The aesthetic feeling, as you would expect from a magazine created by a photographer and a stylist, is strong. Printed on thick glossy paper with an arthouse feel, the layout is minimal yet soft and the editorial content thought-provoking.
Celebrities, such as Karen Elson, Eva Mendes, Keira Knightley and Dunst, have all graced its pages. Interviews are intended to feel like late night chats with old friends.
"Guest editors give the magazine something distinctive, and bring it a certain profile," said Heath.
In Benin
Established on September 27, 1988, the Chinese Cultural Center in the Republic of Benin is located at the Avenue Jean-Paul II in Cotonou City, with a floor space of 4,062 square meters. The building impresses people with rich traditional Chinese architectural styles. The center comprises an open air theatre, a grand multi-functional hall, various sized classrooms, a library for adult readers and a library for children.
Under the support and joint efforts of the Chinese Ministry of Culture and the Benin Government, the Chinese Cultural Center was officially set up in Benin on September 27, 1988. It was the first cultural center the Chinese government instituted in the African Continent. The cultural center is expected to serve as a platform promoting all-round cultural exchanges, following a ribbon cut at the opening ceremony under high concerns of all parties.
The center furnishes a Chinese language course, a martial art course and a shadowboxing course. In addition, it frequently sponsors all kinds of cultural activities, such as book and artwork exhibitions, drama performances, concerts, and ceremonies commemorating students to complete courses. From time to time, it shows movies, DVDs and all sorts of documentaries on China. The center also offers rooms for Benin government organs and mass organizations to hold cultural and artistic education activities.
When requested, the center will assist organizing exhibitions on China in other parts of Benin. On all accounts, the center assumes the mission of promoting Chinese culture and facilitating the prosperity of the African culture, particularly full flourish of Benin culture.
The following is the channels to come into contact with the Chinese Cultural Center in the Republic of Benin.
Tel: 00229-21313174/97161030
Fax: 00229-21314833
E-mail: ccccoo@culturalink.gov.cn
Related links:
China cultural network:
www.culturalink.gov.cn;
http://www.chinaculture.org/
Under the support and joint efforts of the Chinese Ministry of Culture and the Benin Government, the Chinese Cultural Center was officially set up in Benin on September 27, 1988. It was the first cultural center the Chinese government instituted in the African Continent. The cultural center is expected to serve as a platform promoting all-round cultural exchanges, following a ribbon cut at the opening ceremony under high concerns of all parties.
The center furnishes a Chinese language course, a martial art course and a shadowboxing course. In addition, it frequently sponsors all kinds of cultural activities, such as book and artwork exhibitions, drama performances, concerts, and ceremonies commemorating students to complete courses. From time to time, it shows movies, DVDs and all sorts of documentaries on China. The center also offers rooms for Benin government organs and mass organizations to hold cultural and artistic education activities.
When requested, the center will assist organizing exhibitions on China in other parts of Benin. On all accounts, the center assumes the mission of promoting Chinese culture and facilitating the prosperity of the African culture, particularly full flourish of Benin culture.
The following is the channels to come into contact with the Chinese Cultural Center in the Republic of Benin.
Tel: 00229-21313174/97161030
Fax: 00229-21314833
E-mail: ccccoo@culturalink.gov.cn
Related links:
China cultural network:
www.culturalink.gov.cn;
http://www.chinaculture.org/
In Paris
The old building of the Chinese Cultural Center in Paris
The new building of the Chinese Cultural Center in Paris
French people largely put traditions and cultural atmosphere at a premium. In Paris, people are particular about sectors of an area when they come to taking up their abode. The Chinese Cultural Center in Paris, located in downtown areas opposing the celebrated historic sites of Grand Palais and Petit Palais across the Seine River, sits next to a spate of stately, handsome and elegant classical architectures that have witnessed the evolution of Paris at various historical stages. It conforms to the status of China, a great power with a lasting civilization of several thousand years in the East, to set the Chinese Cultural Center in this exact place.The center has been open to the public for more than a month since it officially went into operation. It has attracted high attention from all circles of life in France, particularly local residents who are fond of the Chinese culture. It is the first time for China to set up a cultural center in western developed countries. France, a major cultural power, was the first among western countries to set up diplomat relations with the People’s Republic of China. On this account, China selected Paris to host its cultural center to meet the requirements of continuously expanded cultural exchanges between the two countries. The center will serve as a platform to enhance friendly dialogue between the ancient yet thriving Chinese civilization and the romantic French civilization. It will also furnish French people a channel to better understand China in a wider scopeThe amazing progress in smoothly selecting the site for the Chinese Cultural Center and putting it into operation in downtown Paris in such a short period was attributed to high priority of the Chinese government, constructive cooperation of the French party, and arduous yet effective performances of the task force of the center. Wu Jianmin, Chinese ambassador to France, said with emotion, “We have our own cultural center in Paris at last, and we have eventually realized the long-cherished wish of my predecessors in the Chinese embassy.” Hou Xianghua, the first director of the Chinese Cultural Center in Paris, said the center will stick up with its “non-governmental” nature and greet people from all walks of life, in addition to serving the mainstream society.
19th CENTURY COUNT RESIDENCE
French people largely put traditions and cultural atmosphere at a premium. In Paris, people are particular about sectors of an area when they come to taking up their abode. The Chinese Cultural Center in Paris, located in downtown areas opposing the celebrated historic sites of Grand Palais and Petit Palais across the Seine River, sits next to a spate of stately, handsome and elegant classical architectures that have witnessed the evolution of Paris at various historical stages. It conforms to the status of China, a great power with a lasting civilization of several thousand years in the East, to set the Chinese Cultural Center in this exact place. The Chinese Cultural Center went into official operation on November 29, 2002, marked with a red-carpet ceremony. “It is worthwhile to come a long way here, just think about the specific site,” said Zhao Wuji and Zhu Dequn, renowned painters of Chinese origin, on-scene.
Located at the cross point where BOULEVARD DELATOUR-MAUBOURG meets QUAID’ORSAY in the seventh arrondissement of Paris, the center is a close neighbor of the famous Les Invalides Square to the west, adjoining the Seine River.
The office building of the center, constructed of stones nearly 150 years ago, has imposing windows extending to the roof. It was a private residence of the French Count Montesquieu Fusansack of the 19th century. The stone structure on its right side was actually a sister building, currently owned by the France Association of Mayors. They were designed and constructed under the orders of the Countess in 1858 for her two sons.
Step into the building, and you will instantly revel in the flavor of the stairs. The marble stairs, placed at the west side of the building, remain to look brand-new, despite the passage of time. Ascend the luxury and fancy stairs step by step upon scarlet carpets. You will see pendant lamps hung from ornamented roofs. Two nude women sculptures stand loftily at the upper parts of the pillars on each side. The walls, also decorated with marbles of simple and elegant natural patterns, look just like inartificial artworks as they are circled with frames. Experts say that wall decorations are made of imitated marbles, which are more expensive than natural marbles. It is thus evident the original house owner was of very high artistic taste.
The building has four floors, with the first and second floors most often used. Light and spacious rooms are joined in the building. Though short of decorations, the walls remain rarefied in style. The wooden decorations are fine in workmanship, actually “works of consummate skills”. The lacquers upon some doors look coarse, as they are dark and lackluster. However, they are of best quality. They have been enrolled in the cultural heritage protection list, just as the overall building is, because the technique to mix such lacquers might have been lost.
PROMPT DECISION FOR PROCUREMENT
China and France have talked it over for a long time to set up a cultural center in each other’s land. They eventually signed an agreement in 2001. On April 19, 2001, Chinese vice-premier Li Lanqing and French foreign minister Hubert Védrine subscribed a minutes of talks in Paris, deciding to settle the cultural centers in the capital cities.
It subsequently became an urgent affair to select sites for the forthcoming cultural centers. The Chinese government did everything and finally singled out the present building. Although it was built about 150 years ago, the building remains to have good conditions. It is a classical architecture under the French government’s list for cultural heritage protection. Besides, it sits in an ideal section of land, with the Seine River flowing in the front. As a part of the “most splendid areas” in Paris in all ages, the building shows off history and modernity. It accords with the weight of China, an oriental civilization, to set up the cultural center in the building.
The next thing was to bargain with the landlord to fix upon sales price. The building was sold for some times over the past century. The current owner was a descendent of old-time aristocrats. Two families, aunt and nephew, lived in the building. On the reasons of economy, they decided to sell the building and move to other places. The building was finally sold at a price accepted by both parties. The Chinese Cultural Center became the new owner of the building.
On December 29 last year, Chinese Cultural Center in Paris went into official operation with a grand inauguration ceremony. Senior Chinese and French officials and celebrities from the cultural and artistic circles put in an appearance. Chinese vice-premier Li Lanqing revisited Paris to unveil the center sign. At the same day, the Chinese and French governments officially signed an agreement to set up cultural centers in each other’s capital and confirm their roles, turning over a new page in the history of cultural exchanges and cooperation between the two countries.
MULTI-FUNCTIONAL CULTURAL CENTER
Chinese Cultural Center in Paris has a building area of 1,700 square meters. It plans to renovate the old building in the near future and have a new building constructed in the courtyard. When the project is completed, the center will have a building area of 4,000 square meters and serve as a multi-functional place for cultural activities with rich Chinese characteristics. It will host such facilities as small theatre, lecture hall, classroom and reading room.
The center has mapped out plans for seminars, forums, performances, concerts and exhibitions. It will sponsor and participate in cultural and technological exhibitions to popularize China’s progress in these fields. Other projects comprise: recommend and show movies and video programs; print and distribute program prospectus, painting albums, and cultural, teaching and scientific documents in other mediums; open up library, reading room, and data room; invite Chinese artists, researchers, and seminar lecturers; and open up Chinese language courses and other training courses.
Website: http://www.cccparis.org/
19th CENTURY COUNT RESIDENCE
French people largely put traditions and cultural atmosphere at a premium. In Paris, people are particular about sectors of an area when they come to taking up their abode. The Chinese Cultural Center in Paris, located in downtown areas opposing the celebrated historic sites of Grand Palais and Petit Palais across the Seine River, sits next to a spate of stately, handsome and elegant classical architectures that have witnessed the evolution of Paris at various historical stages. It conforms to the status of China, a great power with a lasting civilization of several thousand years in the East, to set the Chinese Cultural Center in this exact place. The Chinese Cultural Center went into official operation on November 29, 2002, marked with a red-carpet ceremony. “It is worthwhile to come a long way here, just think about the specific site,” said Zhao Wuji and Zhu Dequn, renowned painters of Chinese origin, on-scene.
Located at the cross point where BOULEVARD DELATOUR-MAUBOURG meets QUAID’ORSAY in the seventh arrondissement of Paris, the center is a close neighbor of the famous Les Invalides Square to the west, adjoining the Seine River.
The office building of the center, constructed of stones nearly 150 years ago, has imposing windows extending to the roof. It was a private residence of the French Count Montesquieu Fusansack of the 19th century. The stone structure on its right side was actually a sister building, currently owned by the France Association of Mayors. They were designed and constructed under the orders of the Countess in 1858 for her two sons.
Step into the building, and you will instantly revel in the flavor of the stairs. The marble stairs, placed at the west side of the building, remain to look brand-new, despite the passage of time. Ascend the luxury and fancy stairs step by step upon scarlet carpets. You will see pendant lamps hung from ornamented roofs. Two nude women sculptures stand loftily at the upper parts of the pillars on each side. The walls, also decorated with marbles of simple and elegant natural patterns, look just like inartificial artworks as they are circled with frames. Experts say that wall decorations are made of imitated marbles, which are more expensive than natural marbles. It is thus evident the original house owner was of very high artistic taste.
The building has four floors, with the first and second floors most often used. Light and spacious rooms are joined in the building. Though short of decorations, the walls remain rarefied in style. The wooden decorations are fine in workmanship, actually “works of consummate skills”. The lacquers upon some doors look coarse, as they are dark and lackluster. However, they are of best quality. They have been enrolled in the cultural heritage protection list, just as the overall building is, because the technique to mix such lacquers might have been lost.
PROMPT DECISION FOR PROCUREMENT
China and France have talked it over for a long time to set up a cultural center in each other’s land. They eventually signed an agreement in 2001. On April 19, 2001, Chinese vice-premier Li Lanqing and French foreign minister Hubert Védrine subscribed a minutes of talks in Paris, deciding to settle the cultural centers in the capital cities.
It subsequently became an urgent affair to select sites for the forthcoming cultural centers. The Chinese government did everything and finally singled out the present building. Although it was built about 150 years ago, the building remains to have good conditions. It is a classical architecture under the French government’s list for cultural heritage protection. Besides, it sits in an ideal section of land, with the Seine River flowing in the front. As a part of the “most splendid areas” in Paris in all ages, the building shows off history and modernity. It accords with the weight of China, an oriental civilization, to set up the cultural center in the building.
The next thing was to bargain with the landlord to fix upon sales price. The building was sold for some times over the past century. The current owner was a descendent of old-time aristocrats. Two families, aunt and nephew, lived in the building. On the reasons of economy, they decided to sell the building and move to other places. The building was finally sold at a price accepted by both parties. The Chinese Cultural Center became the new owner of the building.
On December 29 last year, Chinese Cultural Center in Paris went into official operation with a grand inauguration ceremony. Senior Chinese and French officials and celebrities from the cultural and artistic circles put in an appearance. Chinese vice-premier Li Lanqing revisited Paris to unveil the center sign. At the same day, the Chinese and French governments officially signed an agreement to set up cultural centers in each other’s capital and confirm their roles, turning over a new page in the history of cultural exchanges and cooperation between the two countries.
MULTI-FUNCTIONAL CULTURAL CENTER
Chinese Cultural Center in Paris has a building area of 1,700 square meters. It plans to renovate the old building in the near future and have a new building constructed in the courtyard. When the project is completed, the center will have a building area of 4,000 square meters and serve as a multi-functional place for cultural activities with rich Chinese characteristics. It will host such facilities as small theatre, lecture hall, classroom and reading room.
The center has mapped out plans for seminars, forums, performances, concerts and exhibitions. It will sponsor and participate in cultural and technological exhibitions to popularize China’s progress in these fields. Other projects comprise: recommend and show movies and video programs; print and distribute program prospectus, painting albums, and cultural, teaching and scientific documents in other mediums; open up library, reading room, and data room; invite Chinese artists, researchers, and seminar lecturers; and open up Chinese language courses and other training courses.
Website: http://www.cccparis.org/
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