Friday, January 28, 2011

Yamla Pagla Deewana - Movie Review

Read more! Cast :: Dharmendra, Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Kulraj Randhawa

In the 1970s and 1980s, Bollywood churned out hardcore masala films by the dozens. Those films appealed to the 'Balcony Class' as well as the 'Stall Audience' (terminology used for dissecting the audience then). Even today, films like SHOLAY, AMAR AKBAR ANTHONY, NAMAK HALAAL, DON, ROTI KAPADA AUR MAKAAN, DHARAM-VEER, MUQADDAR KA SIKANDAR et al, the most popular films of that era, appeal to the guy riding an auto rickshaw as well as the CEO of a multinational company. Masala films, in my opinion, can never go out of vogue. The gargantuan success of films like DABANGG and GOLMAAL 3 last year endorses this viewpoint.

The reason why masala films tick to this date is because they have the power to entertain. I've often heard my non-film friends comment that cinema, for them, symbolizes an outing with their family. They want to be transported to a world of make-believe in those 3 hours and forget their worries/sorrows/trials/tribulations in the process. YAMLA PAGLA DEEWANA does that and does so most convincingly.

YAMLA PAGLA DEEWANA is a tribute to the cinema of yore. Every rule in the book that made hardcore commercial films major money spinners then have been read minutely and integrated in the plotline of this one. Generally, movie makers often claim that their film is hatke, that it boasts of stuff that the viewer hasn't watched on screen before, but YAMLA PAGLA DEEWANA makes no such claims. It is old wine bottled and packaged in a new avatar.

What makes YAMLA PAGLA DEEWANA work? A variety of reasons, if you ask me. One, watching the Deol parivaar in one frame is an experience in itself. Two, drama, emotions and light moments are smartly integrated in the narrative. Three, the punches (most of them) are thoroughly enjoyable. Four, the entertainment quotient. Most importantly, it delivers what it promised in its promos: Laughter and amusement. It's a film that caters to the aam aadmi, who's keen on having a good time at the movies. It's definitely NOT for the hard-nosed critics or fakes who masquerade as champions of art house cinema.

But YAMLA PAGLA DEEWANA has a flipside too: The romantic sequences are a bore and the music, barring the title track and 'Charha De Rang', is a earsore. Even the climax fight is very, very formulaic. But, thankfully, the plusses outnumber the minusses by leaps and bounds here. The second half, to be specific, salvages the show to a major extent.

Final word? The fans of Deols, even those who had drifted away, are sure to lap it up in a big way. Triple masti, triple mazaa, triple magic... Go, get entertained without using your intellect. The film begins in Canada, travels to Banaras and eventually makes its way to Punjab. The father-son duo of Dharam Singh and Gajodhar Singh (Dharmendra and Bobby Deol) are the biggest con-men in Banaras. Their happy-go-lucky existence involves drinking and pulling off hilarious cons on unsuspecting people. The only hitch in their perfect albeit notorious life arrives in the form of Paramveer Singh Dhillon (Sunny Deol).

A brawny and honest NRI from Vancouver, Paramveer lands up in Banaras claiming to be Gajodhar's elder brother separated at childhood. The duo willingly accepts Paramveer into their fold only to exploit his muscle power to serve their con games.

Meanwhile, Gajodhar falls in love with Sahiba (Kulraj Randhawa), a beautiful girl from Punjab. As their romance reaches its peak, her brothers (Anupam Kher and company) arrive and forcibly take her away. Paramveer saves the day with a crazy plan to win the girl back for Gajodhar, which leads them to the rustic heartlands of Punjab.

Like I pointed out at the very outset, YAMLA PAGLA DEEWANA borrows from here, there, everywhere. You can draw parallels with Mirza-Sahiba, the legendary folklore that is popular to this date. Memories of BUNTY AUR BABLI and also DILWALE DULHANIA LE JAYENGE come alive while watching this one. The climax, of course, is straight out of 1970s cinema. In fact, writer Jasvinder Singh Bath makes it a point to offer the viewer a new punch every 15/20 minutes. Of course, some are enjoyable, some aren't.

From the writing point of view, the first half leaves you with mixed feelings. The undercurrent of emotions is electrifying and how one wishes director Samir Karnik and the writer would've tapped this aspect, instead of wasting precious celluloid on the romance between Bobby and Kulraj Randhawa. On the brighter side, the action at the start - Sunny saves Dharmendra and Bobby from Johny Lever's goons - is dazzlingly executed. It's aimed at the masses entirely. Also, a number of comic scenes tickle your funny bone in this hour.

The film redeems itself in the post-interval portions. The graph zooms upwards the moment the focus shifts from Banaras to Punjab. The introduction of Anupam Kher's character, his assorted brothers, the sequence when Sunny and Bobby ask for Kulraj's hand in marriage, the arrival of Dharmendra and also Sunny's Canadian wife Emma Brown Garrett subsequently, Sunny's speech in English at the election rally... the fun never stops. Of course, the villain's track (Puneet Issar) is an obstacle and the climax fight, like I pointed out earlier, tries so hard to be funny. Also, the film could've done with trimming.

Director Samir Karnik has targeted the film at the hoi polloi and that segment of moviegoers would love his effort. In fact, the film has several mass-appealing moments that would either send the masses in a tizzy of excitement or make them clap in delight. However, the clap-trap moments are more towards the second hour. Writer Jasvinder Singh Bath seems inspired by the cinema of Manmohan Desai and Prakash Mehra and if one overlooks the hiccups in the first hour, his screen writing does justice to the genre of the film. The songs aren't appealing, except for the remix version of 'Yamla Pagla Deewana', the yesteryear hit and 'Charha De Rang', which is melodious to the core. 'Tinku Jiya' should appeal to the front-benchers. The cinematography (Kabir Lal) is captivating; the lush green locales of Punjab are well captured on moving picture. Dialogue are well worded. The action sequences (Analarasu) are deftly executed.

Casting the Deols together is a trump card and their real-life bonding reflects delightfully on screen. Dharmendra is endearing and charming as ever. He enacts his part with effortless ease. Sunny is wonderfully restrained. The audience will love him as a sober guy and the ones who expect the brawny star to flex his muscles or raise his voice (the angry man persona) won't be disappointed either. Bobby is equally convincing, matching up to his iconic father and brother every time they appear on screen together. Kulraj looks beautiful and makes an extremely confident big screen debut.

Anupam Kher is outstanding. This is amongst his most lovable acts. Johny Lever is funny in a brief role. Nafisa Ali is graceful as ever. Sucheta Khanna is first-rate. Amit Mistry does very well. Mukul Dev should stage a comeback to movies with this one. He's too good! Himanshu Malik is okay. Puneet Issar is wasted. Emma Brown Garrett (Sunny's wife) is amazing. Ditto for the two child artists, enacting the role of Sunny's kids. Ajay Devgn's voiceover at the start sets the tone for the film.

On the whole, YAMLA PAGLA DEEWANA is a hardcore mass entertainer that fulfils the expectations of the aam junta. Those who love Deols will adore this one, while those who don't, won't ignore it either. The film works big time for its mass-appealing second half and loads of entertainment it has to offer. The target audience is the masses and it is this segment of movie-going audience that should carry this film to success. Business at single screens should be exceptional, while the film should set new benchmarks in North India (Punjab specifically). Internationally too, the film should perform the best in U.K., U.S.A. and Canada.

Download Yamla Pagla Deewana MP3 Songs
01 - Yamla Pagla Deewana@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
02 - Charha De Rang@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
03 - Tinku Jiya@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
04 - Sau Baar@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
05 - Chamki Jawaani@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
06 - Son Titariya@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
07 - Kadd Ke Botal@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
08 - Yamla Pagla Deewana (House Mix)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
09 - Charha De Rang - 1@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
10 - Charha De Rang - 2@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
11 - Charha De Rang - 3@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
12 - Gurbani@review-of-movies.blogspot.com

01 - Yamla Pagla Deewana@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
02 - Charha De Rang@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
03 - Tinku Jiya@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
04 - Sau Baar@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
05 - Chamki Jawaani@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
06 - Son Titariya@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
07 - Kadd Ke Botal@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
08 - Yamla Pagla Deewana (House Mix)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
09 - Charha De Rang - 1@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
10 - Charha De Rang - 2@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
11 - Charha De Rang - 3@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
12 - Gurbani@review-of-movies.blogspot.com

Watch Yamla Pagla Deewana Videos

Saturday, January 8, 2011

Patiala House - Music Review

Read more! Cast :: Akshay Kumar, Anushka Sharma & Rishi Kapoor

Without an iota of doubt, expectations surmount whenever a filmmaker like Nikhil Advani, who has always been a connoisseur of excellent music, teams up with music giants of the stature of T-Series and so is the case in their latest venture, PATIALA HOUSE. The film stars "Khiladi" Akshay Kumar whose films have always boasted of chartbusting music and Anushka Sharma who too has been very lucky as far as music of her films is concerned. And it is just a coincidence that the music of both their latest, TEES MAAR KHAN and BAND BAAJA BAARAAT respectively is topping the charts presently. And we are quite sure that their next, PATIALA HOUSE, will follow suit. The reason being the multitalented Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy who have been assigned the task of handling the music department this time too, very much like Nikhil's last three ventures, KAL HO NA HO, SALAAM-E-ISHQ and CHANDNI CHOWK TO CHINA.

Since the film is about a UK based Sikh family, it's but natural that the music will have heavy Punjabi influences and the very first song, "Laungda Lashkara", is one such number. Hard Kaur, who also features in the film, spices up the mood and sends the tempo racing as she starts the proceedings with her much loved characteristic rap which features intermittently during the whole song and is one of the highlights of the track. Jassi ("Dil Legayi Kudi.." fame) is in cracking form as he renders this very different Punjabi love song, along with the sweet sounding Mahalaxmi Iyer, who modulates her vocals to match Anushka's husky ones. The tune that Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy choose is very rhythmic and foot tapping and the arrangements are not too harsh and loud, after all it's SEL and they never go over the top! It's after quite a while that we have had a sweet Punjabi favoured love song that we fall in love with instantly (like in LOVE AAJ KAL), one which leaves the listener asking for more. Anvita Dutt deserves credit for conjuring up lyrics that are not heavy duty and has just the right mix of Punjabi, English and Hindi, yet simple and comprehensible, one which most people can understand without taxing their brains. The remix version "Laungda Lashkara" by Harry Anand is more pacy making the song even more dance oriented targeting the youth and GenX.

All those who have loved S-E-L in their last chartbusting yet classy outing, MY NAME IS KHAN, this one is for them as the next song is pretty much in the same corridor as "Noor-E-Khuda". Soothing piano notes, just the right precursor that sets up the somber mood and commences the song, "Kyun Main Jaagoon", a semi-philosophical, introspective, soulful number. Shafqat Amanat Ali is excellent as his vocals convey the cry of anguish of the main protagonist played by Akshay Kumar (who not being allowed to pursue his passion) with ease and aplomb.

The soft flowing melody combined with just the right minimal music arrangements, especially the piano interludes, blend seamlessly with the vocals and make this song a pleasure to listen to. Anvita's lyrics once again deserves brownie points as the crux of the film is conveyed easily through some brilliant words- "Mujhe yun hi karke khwabon se juda, Jaane kahan chhup ke baitha hai khuda."

The song also appears in two more versions. First is "Kyun Main Jaagoon" Unplugged and "Kyun Main Jaagoon" Remix. The unplugged version is for those who like things soft, subtle .with minimal music arrangements, just guitar and piano and crystal clear vocals. The remixed version has been handled classily by Asia Dub Foundation and converts the soft soothing number into a happening track, fit enough for clubs and discotheques.

The title "Rola Pe Gaya" was just an indication that we were in for some rollicking fun in the upcoming track and how right we were because this song has everything that we were expecting and even more! The start is a bit misleading as one gets the impression of a traditional Punjabi "mehdi" wedding number, but Hard Kaur puts things right on track with her superb rap. With S-E-L's "Where's The Party Tonight" (KANK-2006) still popular, here is the follow up to the iconic party number as Shankar gets behind the mike for this fun celebratory track, and one is forced to jive, such is the groovy rhythm of the "dhamaal" track. Master Saleem, Earl and Mahalaxmi Iyer join in the fun with renditions that exude energy. Shades of Lata's evergreen "Rangeela Re" is very evident but the way SEL have used it to suit their style is commendable.

There was no need for a remix version and "Rola Pe Gaya Remix" by Harry Anand can be called space filler but the fun continues here as well so one does not mind at all.

Soft guitar strums evoke feelings of timeless romance as the next song "Aadat Hai Voh" unfolds and this song is nothing short of a marvel, and the reason is that SEL have not followed a beaten path as seemed from the start. The song has contrasting shades of soft love ballad converging into a superb hard rock crescendo and a back up chorus, which is absolutely mind-boggling, a tad, Vishal Bhardwaj style. And after SEL it's our rocker Vishal Dadlani who deserves kudos for an excellent rendition, superlative control over his vocals and magical voice modulations, from soft to husky. Just brilliant. Lyrics too are very good, "Usko banane wala kuch kuch toh behka hoga, Jab bhi padi hogi uspe nazar". A number one can hear over and over again until it becomes an "dat".

Suraj Jagan and Alyssa Mendonsa come behind the microphone for "Baby When You Talk To Me" which is a classy and clever fusion of soft rock (reminiscent of Beatles /Elvis era) and typical SEL melody and they succeed in their effort of providing thorough entertainment. The highlight of the track is the main chorus, "Baby when you talk to me, Manzil mili gali gali" which is also the "mukhda" of the song and as one can make out a light hearted fun filled love ditty. The song also appears as a remix version by Andrew T Mackay (produced and mixed by Shantanu Huldikar) and it's even better than the original. More zing, more fun!

Renowned Punjabi "sufi" singer, Hans Raj Hans(of Dil Tote Tote fame) continues the celebrations in his usual grand style as we come across another wedding track, "Tumba Tumba" (Tumba - A musical instrument, a plucked spike lute used in rural Punjabi folk songs) that sounds straight out of Sooraj Barjatya films (read HUM AAPKE HAIN KAUN). The composition is partly sung in the "qawwali" mode, and that is the best part about this song. Lyrics are full of humour and in parts a bit Punjabish, especially the start, but the rest of the song has simple wordings that fit in the situation, and one can imagine the whole setting of the song through the wordings. Indian musical instruments like "sitar", "ektara" and also harmonium have been used to good effect.

Last up is "Aval Allah", a very popular Sikh devotional song (hymn), which provides just the right finish to a classy album. A brief soul cleansing, spiritually enlighting number that sends the strong message of equality of all and is rendered superbly by Richa Sharma, whose strong and clear vocals are picture perfect for this track. The Shabad Gurbani, "Aval Allah noor upaaeiaa, Kudrat ke sab bandey, Ek noor te sab jag upajaiaa, Koun bhalae ko mande?" Roughly translated it means, "First Allah Almighty created the light, then by his creative power, he made all mortal beings. From one light, the entire universe welled up, so who is good and who is bad?"

To sum up, one is spellbound as Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy prove once again that whenever they have been entrusted with the task of composing for a big project they always rise to the occasion and deliver the goods. Last year it was Shah Rukh Khan's MY NAME IS KHAN, where they showed their class and versatility, and they have come out with flying colours once again in case of PATIALA HOUSE.

Download Patiala House MP3 Songs
01 - Patiala House - Laung Da Lashkara@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
02 - Patiala House - Kyun Main Jaagoon@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
03 - Patiala House - Rola Pe Gaya@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
04 - Patiala House - Aadat Hai Voh@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
05 - Patiala House - Baby When You Talk To Me@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
06 - Patiala House - Tumba Tumba@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
07 - Patiala House - Kyun Main Jaagoon (Unplugged)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
08 - Patiala House - Aval Allah@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
09 - Patiala House - Kyun Main Jaagoon (Remix)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
10 - Patiala House - Baby When You Talk To Me (Remix)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
11 - Patiala House - Rola Pe Gaya (Remix)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
12 - Patiala House - Laung Da Lashkara (Remix)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com

01 - Patiala House - Laung Da Lashkara@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
02 - Patiala House - Kyun Main Jaagoon@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
03 - Patiala House - Rola Pe Gaya@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
04 - Patiala House - Aadat Hai Voh@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
05 - Patiala House - Baby When You Talk To Me@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
06 - Patiala House - Tumba Tumba@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
07 - Patiala House - Kyun Main Jaagoon (Unplugged)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
08 - Patiala House - Aval Allah@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
09 - Patiala House - Kyun Main Jaagoon (Remix)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
10 - Patiala House - Baby When You Talk To Me (Remix)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
11 - Patiala House - Rola Pe Gaya (Remix)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
12 - Patiala House - Laung Da Lashkara (Remix)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com

Watch Patiala House Videos






Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Dil Toh Baccha Hai Ji - Music Review

Read more! Cast :: Ajay Devgn, Emraan Hashmi & Omi Vaidya

There are good expectations from the music of Dil Toh Baccha Hai Ji for multiple reasons. Firstly and most importantly, the film bings together the team of Pritam, Emraan Hashmi and Ajay Devgn which did wonders in Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai earlier this year. Secondly, the film showcases a new side of Madhur Bhandarkar with romcom being the chosen flavour. For his last musical Fashion, he had extracted some fantastic musical score from Salim-Sulaiman. One expects him to have done something similar for his newest endeavour as well. Neelesh Mishra, Kumaar, Sanjay Chhel and Sayeed Quadri write.

The album begins with a song which is pretty much the kind that one expects from a Pritam-Emraan combo. A soft love song with a childlike feel to it, hi Kuch Dino Se has a quintessential Mohit Chauhan stamp to it as the singer gets behind the mike. Also, one can't miss the countryside melody to it as Pritam spins a tune that is easy on ears and becomes catchy after a single listening itself. While the mukhda hooks you instantly, the 'antara' is set in the 70s and brings one close to the kind of middle-of-the-road cinema which was made in that era. A song by Neelesh Mishra which should get popular in weeks to come.

The song which should appeal instantly to all those who have grown on Sonu Nigam%s songs from Deewana, Yaad and Jaan (three cult non-film albums that the singer made a few years ago) is %Tere Bin%. Easily the song of the album, 'Tere Bin' has some heart felt lyrics by Kumaar (the young man is indeed spinning some very good words film after film) that make an instant connect with those deeply in love. Yet again, the 'sur' of the album doesn%t see any deviation whatsoever with first 'hi Kuch Dino Se' and now %Tere Bin% ensuring that the melody being created here remains intact.

No wonder, this song is special enough to be repeated in a 'remix version' (one doesn't quite mind that here) as well as the 'reprise version' (by Naresh Iyer). Though there is absolutely nothing wrong with Naresh%s version here (in fact it doesn%t even sound much different either), one would still want to go back to what Sonu renders.

To bring in some variety in the album comes 'Yeh Dil Hai Nakhrewala' which is a jazz track sung by new find Shefali Alvaris. Frankly, this is one sing that one takes time to warm up to. Again, the song doesn't offend one by any means. However, in an album where one was primarily hunting for a few more love songs, a naughty track like this which is written by Neelesh Mishra and has a 50s/60s setting to it, isn't quite the kind that one was expecting to come soon after. The 'remix version' though (by Antara Mitra) is spunkier and does catch your attention.

Nevertheless, one moves on to 'Jadugari' which again ends up giving what one was expecting from a Pritam soundtrack here. A rhythmic number which again has soft undertone to it, 'Jadugari' has a soft feel to it, courtesy the manner in which Kunal Ganjawala sings it. While one is tempted to believe that this would be picturised on Emraan Hashmi, it won't be surprising if Ajay Devgn manages to bag it as well. A song with a trademark Pritam feel to it, 'Jadugari' appears effortless and this is where its win lies.

Last to come is 'shuba' which is the first and the only duet in this album made of solo tracks. Antara Mitra is in her elements once again after 'Bheegi Si' (Raajneeti) and it is just apt that she takes the lead in this love song which has some new lyrics by Sayeed Quadri. She is later joined by Kunal Ganjawala who further adds on to the youth appeal of the album. Yet again, 'shuba' is one of those songs where just one listening can confirm that it is a song composed by Pritam.

Dil Toh Baccha Hai Ji is a good album which has a consistent sound to it (except for 'Yeh Dil Hai Nakhrewala' which is not bad but does deviate a little from the rest of the songs). As expected from Madhur Bhandarkar, he makes Pritam compose some classy tunes which go well with the urban romcom genre. Due to this reason, the album doesn't have any hardcore massy number that could have possibly acted as an anchor on which Dil Toh Baccha Hai Ji could have entirely depended upon. This also means that the album would need a certain time period in which it can be nurtured so that it finds widespread all around acceptability. This Pritam soundtrack would find more audience for itself once the film releases and turns into a (possible) success.

Download Dil Toh Baccha Hai Ji MP3 Songs
01 - Abhi Kuch Dino Se@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
02 - Tere Bin@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
03 - Yeh Dil Hai Nakhrewala@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
04 - Jadugari@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
05 - Beshuba@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
06 - Tere Bin (Reprise)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
07 - Yeh Dil Hai Nakhrewala@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
08 - Tere Bin (Remix)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com

01 - Abhi Kuch Dino Se@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
02 - Tere Bin@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
03 - Yeh Dil Hai Nakhrewala@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
04 - Jadugari@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
05 - Beshuba@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
06 - Tere Bin (Reprise)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
07 - Yeh Dil Hai Nakhrewala@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
08 - Tere Bin (Remix)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com

Watch Dil Toh Baccha Hai Ji Videos


Saturday, December 25, 2010

Tees Maar Khan - Movie Review

Read more! Cast :: Akshay Kumar, Katrina Kaif & Akshaye Khanna

Farah Khan’s comic caper has a lot riding on it. It’s Farah breaking out on her own, free from collaborations that were safe bets from within a comfort zone. In some way it’s a comeback for Akshay Kumar whose had a horrible year of releases. And it’s also Katrina Kaif strongest claim for the top Bollywood heroine slot. (if she doesn’t already own it?)

A lot of question surround this movie but you forget about all of that within minutes when Tees Maar Khan theme song kicks in.

I’ll try my best not to spoil too much of the movie as I was fortunate enough to catch an early preview in London; but honestly speaking I could only spoil some of the comedic beats,not much of the plot.

It’s a pretty straight forward masala caper and most of the set up is in the trailers.

Tees Maar Khan urf Tabrez Mirza Khan ,the biggest con artist in the world, is hired to rob a train carrying an immense treasure for a set of conjoint twin “villains”. He also is a shameless plugger of his own name. There was maybe one too many reference to the title of the movie to my taste but all that is not important for what we get is easily one of the funniest and most entertaining entertainers of the year.

It’s what Housefulll wishes it was, what Action Replayy could never accomplish and what Golmaal lies in bed at night crying it could be one day.

First, I would suggest that if you have a chance, go and watch this movie on the big screen. Partly because it’s the kind of movie that is elevated with a participating audience and partly because it needs the big canvas so you can soak up all the gorgeousness in every shot.

I have a pretty good media set up at home but in no way could I understand the awesomeness of Sheila Ki Jawaani until I saw it today.

There were many discussions the previous weeks about which was the best item number of the year: Munni Badnaam Hui from Dabangg or Sheila Ki Jawaani.I am still not sure I have an answer for that question but what I can tell you is that there were moments in Sheila ki Jawaani that Katrina Kaif took the entire audience’s breath away.

It is EPIC and if I could, I would rewind it and watch it again. You might not be able to do that in a cinema (unless you’re Raja Babu) but what you do get in the theatre experience is the full force of Vishal- Shekar‘s “saaand” blaring through the speakers and every minute detail of Katrina’ s performance elevating the song to a whole new level.

In my opinion Katrina delivers the strongest female comedic performance since Kareena Kapoor in Jab We Met. She is hilarious in every scene as Anya Khan the wannabe Starlet/Item girl and I really hope people stop asking her to prove herself over and over again. I think she has been doing that in her recent roles and this is probably one of her bests.

When reviewing our best Bollywood soundtracks of 2010 (click here) we thought that the Tees Maar Khan OST was maybe not the greatest (I am still not convinced of the Sonu Nigam’s Chipmunk voices) but it could only be fully judged when seeing it picturized. And lo and behold I was humming the songs exiting the theatre and want to get my hands on the soundtrack as soon as I can.

Although Salman Khan’s cameo in Wallah Re Wallah is featured in the promos, it still manages to send a bolt of excitement through your spine.

The first half of the movie just breezes by and the second half has a bit of a slower start but manages to put in a lot more heart in the movie.

So now on to the Khiladi. See I’ve always been fond of Akshay Kumar (especially his work ethic and just plain sincerity) but somewhere his lovable loud mouthed buffoon shtick and those indistinguishable Priyadarshan comedies just turned me away from him.

A movie that I unashamedly loved back in the day was “Mr. and Mrs. Khiladi” ,probably not the most discerning of choices, I admit but Akshay was amazing in it. That’s the kind of Akshay we get here. he is again ahead of the world, a real hero character kids would want to emulate (those fluorescent Jersey Shore Shirts can be omitted) . Someone who is witty, funny and confident. I don’t know if he ad-libs some of his lines in that throw away manner but it makes me crack up everytime and actually believe in Akshay as a leading man again.

Unfortunately for my non-hindi speakers the subtitles were not able to catch every joke thrown in but there are so many if you miss one you’ll surely catch the next one.

There are even “Inception- like” levels of joke-within-a-joke which film geeks can play filmi-bingo with. I would suggest inventing a drinking game around it, someone catches a reference and everyone drinks. Even I jumped with joy seeing Anil Kapoor’s most iconic dance and the whole Master India sequence. (Boney for reals, can we get that Mr.India sequel already??)

But you can also just enjoy the movie just as a fun masala caper with great dances and and performances from the lead as well as the supporting cast (woohoo Avtaar Gill!!) and we even get the final sequence where the whole team apears.

Akshay Khanna is hilarious as the oscar obsessed Bollywood superstar, some will claim it’s inspired by Amir or Shahrukh but I don’t see it really or at least nothing to create news stories about but I’m sure that won’ stop people.

There are certain moment that I did feel the ghost of Shahrukh Khan, who was rumoured as the main lead, loom over Tees Maar Khan. In some of Akshay’s hero poses, comedic repartés and even some of the choreography, you can can almost imagine what Shahrukh would have done with it. Even a few of the sets and décors were eerily similar to Om Shanti Om. But although fun to speculate that’s just context with no real importance to the film.

All in all I think this movie is a great move for Farah, Shrish Kunder and her production company in developing her Manmohan desai style even further. I am truly looking forward to her next paisa vasool flick but until then: go watch Tees Maar Khan on the big screen NOW!

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Saturday, December 11, 2010

No Problem - Movie Review

Read more! Cast :: Anil Kapoor, Sanjay Dutt, Akshaye Khanna, Suniel Shetty, Sushmita Sen, Kangna Ranaut, Paresh Rawal, Neetu Chandra

Take two petty crooks (Sanjay Dutt and Akshaye Khanna), a mean gangster and his moll (Suniel Shetty and Neetu Chandra), a bumbling cop and his schizophrenic wife (Anil Kapoor and Sushmita Sen), a bimbette on the beach (Kangana Ranaut), a bank heist and a puppet in the hands of all these people (Paresh Rawal) and shake them all together in madcap measure...End result: a bunch of clueless people hunting for a cachet of stolen diamonds and relentlessly stepping on each other's toes.

Anees Bazmee is fast donning the mantle of the comedy king in commercial Bollywood. Having delivered big laugh riots like Singh is Kinng, Welcome and No Entry, Bazmee seems to be spinning box office magic in a style reminiscent of David Dhawan's oeuvre during the 1990s. There's a similar incoherence and a method in his madness as he spins implausible yarns that have just one objective. They want to tickle your funny bone, any which way, even if means throwing reason and logic out of the window. But hey, when did the desi box office ever bother about inanities like sense and sensibility.

So go ahead and have a blast with a film that celebrates chaos and hopes to be the stress buster you have been looking for after a hectic twenty-tenner. And yes, don't forget your crispies because this one's meant to pop the corn with its crazy characters and its cornball humour. Leading the brat pack is Anil Kapoor who tries a desi Pink Panther with his foolish cop act. He may have the responsibility of nabbing all the criminals running around in sylvan South Africa, but rest assured his handcuffs -- meant for the bad guys -- are always going to hang loose on his hips and the bullets in his gun will never meet their target. Small wonder then, H@rdC0re robber Marco (Suniel Shetty) can barely stifle a yawn when the bumbling officer announces his arrival. But his foolishness elicits the best response from his wife, Sushmita Sen, who is torn between loving her husband or killing him for his stupidity. Her murderous bouts are the high point of the film, as are Paresh Rawal's attempts to set things right by setting them all wrong. Both Sanjay Dutt and Akshaye Khanna too seem to get their comic timing right as the goon buddys who are out to make a fast buck. Sadly, Kangana Ranaut's attempts to re-fashion her image from girl interrupted to giggly-headed beauty queen don't seem to have an edge.

The film does seem to be roughly edited in places and could do with some nips and tucks. Even the music (Sajid Wajid, Pritam, Anand Raj Anand) doesn't have the chartbuster flavour of the Singh is Kinng audio track. But rest assured, No Problem will make you forget your problems, provided you are willing to get goofy and give up your quest for meaning in masala.

Download No Problem MP3 Songs
01 - No Problem (2010) - No Problem@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
02 - No Problem (2010) - Shakira@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
03 - No Problem (2010) - Babe Di Kripa@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
04 - No Problem (2010) - We Are Innocent@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
05 - No Problem (2010) - Mast Punjabi@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
06 - No Problem (2010) - Babe Di Kripa (Remix)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
07 - No Problem (2010) - Shakira (Remix)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
08 - No Problem (2010) - Mast Punjabi (Remix)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com

01 - No Problem (2010) - No Problem@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
02 - No Problem (2010) - Shakira@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
03 - No Problem (2010) - Babe Di Kripa@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
04 - No Problem (2010) - We Are Innocent@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
05 - No Problem (2010) - Mast Punjabi@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
06 - No Problem (2010) - Babe Di Kripa (Remix)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
07 - No Problem (2010) - Shakira (Remix)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
08 - No Problem (2010) - Mast Punjabi (Remix)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com

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Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Yamla Pagla Deewana - Music Review

Read more! Cast :: Dharmendra, Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Kulraj Randhawa

One does expect the soundtrack of Yamla Pagla Deewana to be loaded with Punjabi flavoured songs from beginning till the end. Reason is obvious - the film has the entire Deol family coming together and unlike Apne, their last outing together, this one is far more 'desi' in appeal. However, one is a tad taken aback to see that instead of one single composer being entrusted with the responsibility to create an out and out masala soundtrack, there are RDB, Nouman Javaid, Anu Malik, Sandesh Shandilya and Rahul B. Seth getting a song or two apiece. Really, at this point one is not really sure about what would actually be in the offing.

Thankfully, the album takes a positive start, what with Dharmendra's smash hit chartbuster 'Yamla Pagla Deewana' making a comeback decades after it first made a country-wide impression. A rearranged version of the Laxmikant-Pyarelal song, 'Yamla Pagla Deewana' retains its overall flavour not just composition-wise but also when it comes to Anand Bakshi's lyrics. RDB does contribute a little with additional lyrics and interludes but the song doesn't loose it's originality at all. Sonu Nigam is just an apt choice to sing this one and along with Nindy Kaur, he indeed does a good job in this song. 'Yamla Pagla Deewana' arrives again in a 'House Mix' version that should find its way into the DJ's list of most preferred songs this season.

Nouman Javaid composes 'Charha De Rang' and one gets a solid impression that the makers were most confident about this track. Reason being that it appears as many as four times in the album. None of them are 'remixes' though and are just different parts of the song. A soothing track sans any Western influence whatsoever, 'Charha De Rang' retains its Indian flavour right through its four and a half minutes duration. A love song which has Ali Pervez Mehdi, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Shweta Pandit, Mahalaxmi Iyer and Rahul B.Seth coming in different parts, at places it does remind of 'Saudebaazi' [Aakrosh]. However, the similarity is just restricted to a strong Indian flavour but that's about it. Written by Rahul B.Seth and Nouman Javaid, it is a decent track where female singers actually end up bringing in far more energy than their male counterparts.

One is not too sure about what exactly do the lyrics 'Tinku Jiya' stands for. However, the fact still remains that this Anu Malik composition is what promises to be a 'masala' outing for the masses. Rest assured, if this song is choreographed on the same lines as a 'Beedi Jalaile' [Omkara] or 'Munni Badnaam' [Dabangg] then there won't be anything stopping this one from finding good audience, especially in interiors of the country. A kind of track that one would associate with a 'Bhojpuri' film, 'Tinku Jiya' (which has Anu Malik turning lyricist as well) promises to be a raunchy number with Mamta Sharma and Javed Ali going all out to keep the momentum on.

In an album like Yamla Pagla Deewana, one didn't expect a quintessential love song. However, there is 'Sau Baar' which is inspired by Pakistani-pop and actually reminds one of many a songs that have been sung by Atif Aslam. This time around it is Omar Nadeem at the helm of affairs and while his 'mukhda' is good, the 'antara' that he shares with Shreya Ghoshal turns out to be barely ordinary. Though one would have really wanted this song to be exciting enough, considering the fact that composer Sandesh Shandilya and lyricist Irshad Kamil come together all over again, the results aren't fantastic.

After 'Tinku Jiya', composer/lyricist Anu Malik and singer Mamta Sharma come together all over again for 'Chamki Jawaani'. Initial portion of the song is on the same lines as 'Kajraare' [Bunty Aur Babli]. However, what follows next is not even close as 'Chamki Jawaani' hardly manages to excite. Now this is a surprise since the male singers behind the mike are Daler Mehndi and Master Salim but still, the song turns out to be hardly foot tapping. At this point, one starts getting doubts around the rest of the album since 'Chamki Jawaani' fails to impress.

Unfortunately the album only continues to go downhill with 'Son Titariya', yet another item number with a 'desi' flavour to it, doesn't catch your attention. In fact one starts wondering at this time around that why is Yamla Pagla Deewana taking a UP/Bihar route when one would have expected a trip to Punjab. Is it the 'munni badnaam' factor, one wonders, even as composer Rahul B.Seth doesn't quite succeed in creating any magic whatsoever along with singer Krishna Beura.

Thankfully there is some Punjabi flavour (finally) in the album with 'Kadd Ke Botal' which is written by Dharmendra himself. A celebration track which is put to tune by Rahul B.Seth and has Sukhwinder Singh, Harshdeep and Rosalie Nicholson teaming up for this 'dhol' and 'bhangra' track, 'Kadd Ke Botal' is decent but again not the kind that would top the charts in 'Yamla Pagla Deewana'. The album concludes with a much expected 'Gurbani'. A minute long piece from Shri Guru Granth Sahib, it is a devotional track which is put to tune by Sanjoy Chowdhury and sung by Shahid Mallya.

Even though the album is a loaded affair with as many as seven original pieces, the few tracks that manage to make an impression are (expectedly) the title song from the past and an item number 'Tinku Jiya'. 'Charha De Rang' can be given a few listening as well but the rest don't quite manage to make an impression despite an attempt at winning over the massy audiences. Really, one expected a far better outcome from Yamla Pagla Deewana than what it eventually has to offer.

Download Yamla Pagla Deewana MP3 Songs
01 - Yamla Pagla Deewana@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
02 - Charha De Rang@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
03 - Tinku Jiya@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
04 - Sau Baar@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
05 - Chamki Jawaani@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
06 - Son Titariya@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
07 - Kadd Ke Botal@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
08 - Yamla Pagla Deewana (House Mix)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
09 - Charha De Rang - 1@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
10 - Charha De Rang - 2@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
11 - Charha De Rang - 3@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
12 - Gurbani@review-of-movies.blogspot.com

01 - Yamla Pagla Deewana@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
02 - Charha De Rang@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
03 - Tinku Jiya@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
04 - Sau Baar@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
05 - Chamki Jawaani@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
06 - Son Titariya@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
07 - Kadd Ke Botal@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
08 - Yamla Pagla Deewana (House Mix)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
09 - Charha De Rang - 1@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
10 - Charha De Rang - 2@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
11 - Charha De Rang - 3@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
12 - Gurbani@review-of-movies.blogspot.com

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Saturday, December 4, 2010

Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey - Movie Review

Read more! Cast :: Abhishek Bachchan , Deepika Padukone

Adapting a work of literature into a movie is an arduous task. Satyajit Ray's 'Apu Trilogy' [PATHER PANCHALI, APARAJITO and APUR SANSAR] was based on two Bengali novels written by Bibhuthibhushan Bandopadhyay. Ray's SHATRANJ KE KHILADI was based on Munshi Premchand's short story of the same name. In fact, film-makers have always been fascinated by best-selling books/novels for adapting into feature films. Mira Nair's THE NAMESAKE, P.C. Barua, Bimal Roy and Sanjay Leela Bhansali's DEVDAS, Pradeep Sarkar's PARINEETA, Rajkumar Hirani's 3 IDIOTS, Atul Agnihotri's HELLO and the recent AISHA have been adapted from literary works. Even in Hollywood, LORD OF THE RINGS, HARRY POTTER, NARNIA and many more have been successfully adapted from novels by reputed names.

However, if you analyze the past, you will realize that not all movies adapted from novels/short stories have set the cash registers jingling at the box-office. Films like PINJAR, PAHELI, RAINCOAT and international experiments like BRIDE AND PREJUDICE and THE MISTRESS OF SPICES have found very few takers in the past.

This is not the first time Ashutosh Gowariker has adapted a book into a film. KHELEIN HUM JEE JAAN SEY is yet another book-to-movie adaptation by this talented storyteller [this one is based on the book 'Do And Die: The Chittagong Uprising 1930-34' by Manini Chatterjee]. Again, this is not the first time Ashutosh Gowariker has revisited the bygone era. He did it successfully in LAGAAN [period], then JODHAA AKBAR [historical] and now KHELEIN HUM JEE JAAN SEY [period].

Recreating the bygone era is indeed demanding, laborious and strenuous. It's a challenge to present the era convincingly. Besides extensive detailing to lend authenticity, the director carries the responsibility of making the characters come alive to the present-day generation. Gowariker has successfully done that in the past and does it successfully yet again in KHELEIN HUM JEE JAAN SEY.

Once the film-maker takes on the task of depicting a chapter from history, it's imperative that he/she remains factual to the depiction of the revolution, giving an accurate account of what actually transpired in that period. But details alone won't help, it needs to be well dramatized for the big screen. There's a vast difference in the style novels are written, but one needs to take extra care to make it film friendly. While I may not be able to comment on whether Gowariker has been faithful to the book or tampered with it or implemented some changes, which may be necessary to suit the tastes of the present-day spectators and make it more palatable, I would definitely like to say that what comes across on screen is very absorbing, truly informative and exceptionally inspiring.

Final word? The expectations from KHELEIN HUM JEE JAAN SEY are minimal, but you can't overlook the fact that it's a genuinely honest effort that needs to be encouraged and appreciated. I would like to add here that the promotional posters/billboards/promos don't create any impact whatsoever. Wish the makers would've looked into this very important aspect as well!

1930, British India: In the province of undivided Bengal lies the sleepy, peaceful port of Chittagong. In this unassuming little town, a revolution is about to begin; a revolution which will forever wake all of Chittagong and inspire the entire nation.

April 18. 1 night. 5 simultaneous attacks. A band of 64 - 56 innocent yet fearless young boys, 5 defiant revolutionaries, 2 determined young women, and an idealistic leader [Surjya Sen], a school teacher by profession.

This group of 64 represents a little-known chapter in history; a forgotten night that reigned terror on the British through a series of calculated attacks. This is a true story of these forgotten heroes and the narrative takes us through every step of the action from the initial trepidation, to the thrill of the attack, to the underground movement, daring escapes and tragic captures, and most importantly, their undying legacy.

A film-maker of extensive aptitude and sensitivity, Gowariker's tryst with period films continues. Seems like he has worked himself to the grind in order to attain perfection. The writing [screenplay: Raoul V. Randolf and Ashutosh Gowariker] and execution of the material are so credible that it influences you to wonder if the writers and director were part of the revolution. The Bengali ethos and the behavioral patterns of the characters, recreating the etiquette and body language of people who lived in a different era along with their attire and styling and also their dwellings come across as very pragmatic. In fact, Gowariker has left no stone unturned to make a film that does justice to the event.

KHELEIN HUM JEE JAAN SEY has almost entirely been shot in Goa and not Chittagong [now Bangladesh] because the location that was there in the 1930s no longer exists in that shape, I understand. However, the film captures the spirit and intensity to perfection. On the other hand, with Gowariker's films, the length/running time of the film is always a topic of discussion and that's a problem with KHELEIN HUM JEE JAAN SEY as well. The film has a running time of approx. 2.48 hours and the editor [Dilip Deo] and director could've easily trimmed a few fight sequences in the second half, to make the goings-on crisper.

Musically, KHELEIN HUM JEE JAAN SEY is embellished with soft and soothing compositions, but I have an issue with that. Sure, the album is high on patriotic sentiment, but the songs in the first hour act as a roadblock in the narrative. Ideally, it should've been a songless film. However, the background score [also by Sohail Sen] enhances every scene, making it more impactful. The production design [Nitin Chandrakant Desai] transports you to that era. It's that authentic. The stunts [Ravi Dewan] are true to life. Kiran Deohans and Seetha Sandhiri's cinematography captures the era to perfection.

Abhishek as Surjya Sen suits the character right. His character appears very fervent, but at the same time truly tranquil, incredibly unperturbed and really unruffled, which merges very well with the character of an educationalist that he illustrates. A freedom fighter with these attributes hasn't been presented in a motion picture before. Abhishek gets to the character a certain authority. The rebelliousness and boisterousness are depicted to perfection.

Deepika sheds her glam look and looks every bit the character she illustrates. Kudos to her first of all for accepting a challenging role [of a woman revolutionary of the 1930s] so early in her career and then almost living that character in the film, continuing to prove her mettle far ahead of her poise and exquisiteness.

Sikander Kher leaves a terrific impression. He excels in several scenes. Vishakha Singh is a complete natural. She catches one's attention instantly. Samrat Mukerji, Maninder and Feroz Wahid Khan, each actor is earnest and sincere to the core. In fact, every actor in the film looks most convincing in their respective parts. I would like to make a special mention of the young artists [most of them seem like first-time performers], who have a very unpolluted/uninfluenced approach to acting. Brownie points to each one of them.

On the whole, KHELEIN HUM JEE JAAN SEY, based on the Chittagong rebellion, is an enlightening experience of a poignant, but little-known chapter in history. It's a film of immense significance which evokes a colossal patriotic fervor. A motion picture like KHELEIN HUM JEE JAAN SEY isn't created targeting the box-office solely. It's also made for the gratification of the senses. And that it does in sufficient measure. In an industry obsessed by opening weekend business and box-office records, this is one of those rare films that doesn't compromise on its gracious objectives for the sake of becoming more box-office friendly. At the same time, a film like KHELEIN HUM JEE JAAN SEY, although very well made, may not appeal to those who relish the customary kitsch and masala. Therefore, the film will have to rely on a very strong word of mouth to create any kind of an impression or impact at the box-office.

Download Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey MP3 Songs
01 - Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey - Yeh Des Hai Mera@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
02 - Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey - Naiyn Tere@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
03 - Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey - Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
04 - Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey - Sapne Saloney Hai Sach@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
05 - Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey - Vande Mataram (Revised Sanskrit To Hindi)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
06 - Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey - Long Live Chittagong@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
07 - Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey - The Teenagers Whistle@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
08 - Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey - Surjya's Sorrow@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
09 - Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey - Vande Mataram@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
10 - Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey - The Escape@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
11 - Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey - Naiyn Tere (Sad)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
12 - Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey - Revolutionary Comrades (Soft)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com


01 - Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey - Yeh Des Hai Mera@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
02 - Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey - Naiyn Tere@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
03 - Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey - Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
04 - Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey - Sapne Saloney Hai Sach@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
05 - Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey - Vande Mataram (Revised Sanskrit To Hindi)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
06 - Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey - Long Live Chittagong@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
07 - Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey - The Teenagers Whistle@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
08 - Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey - Surjya's Sorrow@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
09 - Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey - Vande Mataram@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
10 - Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey - The Escape@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
11 - Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey - Naiyn Tere (Sad)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com
12 - Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey - Revolutionary Comrades (Soft)@review-of-movies.blogspot.com


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