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February News 2008
'With 'Jodhaa', I realised my dream'
February 27, 2008
Sonu Sood talks about Jodhaa Akbar and working with Hrithik.
Not only did the movie win rave reviews, but his role as Sujammal, Jodhaa's brother, was appreciated as well. "Priyanka Chopra cried when my character dies in the movie and Hrithik's mom said, 'You are a superstar now'. Those words mean a lot to me. With Jodhaa Akbar, Sonu has got a big break in his career in having worked with stars like Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. What was the experience like? "Both of them are great co-stars to work with. Hrithik would always praise me when I delivered a good shot and Aishwarya would give me a nod. The nod meant that what I did was perfect," he recollects.
JA DVD out soon
February 27, 2008
Due to the rampant piracy it looks like Jodhaa Akbar DVD will be released sooner than later.
Barely two weeks after its theatrical release, Jodhaa Akbar is facing yet another problem of rampant piracy in the very state of Rajasthan, where it was banned. "When there is prohibition, then people are bound to crave for alcohol. In the same way when the film is banned people will want to see the film," says Ex VP, Marketing and Revenue, UTV Motions Pictures, Siddharth Roy Kapur.
According to a study done by Television and Film Producers Guild of India last year, the Rs 3000-crore Hindi film industry loses around Rs 1,000 crore annually to piracy. UTV had taken pre-emptive measures before Jodhaa Akbar's release when around 500 top retail stores which stocked pirated material in the United States were sent legal warning letters.
"We know that piracy is unavoidable, now there is only one way to shrink your window of satellite release. Instead of releasing the film after 6 months, it is now become 3 months and if a DVD is released after 3 months then now the DVD is released after 6-8 weeks," says Siddharth Roy Kapur. However, even if UTV cannot fully curb piracy, the good news is that Jodhaa Akbar will have its official DVD release very soon.
Photos: Gr8 Awards ceremony
February 27, 2008
Hrithik Roshan attended gr8 Awards ceremony at ITC Grand Maratha Sheraton, Andheri, Mumbai, Tuesday night, February 26, some photos from SAWF, Indiaglitz, India Times
Video Download: Coca-Cola Akbar ad
February 26, 2008
In celebration of Jodhaa Akbar's success, Coca Cola has shot an ad with Hrithik. Manish has captured it, download here
Hrithik Roshan features in a stubble in his new campaign for a cola. It is celebration time for 'Akbar' as he makes merry with a group of friends by proclaiming Jashn Mana Le to the accompaniment of Sufi sounds a hangover after playing the Mughal king! Hrithik's campaign has been conceptualised by McCann Erickson and will air sometime this weekend. The ad is directed by Sabal Singh Shekhawat of Big Picture Company with the background musical score given by Ram Sampath. The commercial has a roadside eatery where a bunch of youngsters land up late at night to grab a quick bite. What follows is a tryst with the star (Hrithik) and a magical ride that leaves them in awe! The ad based on the Jashn Mana Le theme showcases how Hrithik and his friends create a moment of celebration with the bottle.
Video Download: Hrithik interview on Headlines Today
February 26, 2008
Manish has captured an interview with Hrithik on Headlines Today where he talks about his new Coca-Cola ad, download here
UTV wins case on Jodhaa Akbar ban in MP
February 26, 2008
Jodhaa Akbar will resume screening in Madhya Pradesh after the state high court rules in favour of UTV.
UTV has won its case against the Madhya Pradesh government on the state's ban on Ashutosh Gowariker-directed film Jodhaa Akbar. The MP ban came soon after the movie was prohibited in Rajashtan. The movie will resume screening in MP with immediate effect. "The Madhya Pradesh High Court has ruled in favor of UTV and we are commencing the screening of Jodhaa Akbar immediately across the state," said UTV executive vice president marketing, communication and distribution Siddharth Roy Kapoor. He added, "This is a huge boost to all advocates of creative freedom in our country and we are very grateful to the court for recognizing the validity of our stand and allowing Jodhaa Akbar to resume screenings."
Jodhaa Akbar emerges first hit Of 2008
February 25, 2008
Looks like it's official, Jodhaa Akbar is the first hit of 2008.
After 2008 seeing failure after failure there is relief at last. Jodhaa Akbar has emerged the first hit of 2008. The film is not a universal hit but business is similar to the first hits of the last two years Rang De Basanti and Guru where both films succeeded due to strong business in certain areas. Jodhaa Akbar has managed to do 10 crore nett business in its second weekend and this without Rajasthan and most centres of CP Berar and CI. The film is showing very good collections in Mumbai, Delhi-NCR and South.
The ten day business of Jodhaa Akbar stands at nearly 35 crore and it is expected to end its second week with business of 39 crore. The film's business is much lower than the likes of Om Shanti Om and Welcome but considering all the problems and obstacles the film faced and is still facing, it is a great result for the team of Jodhaa Akbar.
Video Download: Hrithik at 2008 Filmfare Awards
February 24, 2008
Himanshi has captured a clip of Hrithik and Sussanne arriving at the 53rd Annual Filmfare Awards, download here, some photos from Indiafm, IBN and SAWF, read a report here
Bollywood generates sold-out shows 10,000 miles from Bombay
February 23, 2008
A report on the screening of Jodhaa Akbar in Boston.
Jodhaa Akbar Collects 24.75 crore in week one
February 23, 2008
JA box office collection for the first week.
Jodhaa Akbar has collected 24.75 crore nett (40 crore Gross) from around 700 cinemas. The film showed a drop in collections mid week but has started week two well at multiplexes. The film is best in Mumbai and South. The film has surprisingly done well in Bihar, a territory with mainly small centres. Although there are two states Rajasthan and Madhya Pardesh which have banned it till now, it still looks like Jodhaa Akbar will emerge a winner due to its big city business. Full report
Jodhaa Akbar earns Rs 38.53 cr in 4 days
February 22, 2008
Jodhaa Akbar has collected Rs 38.53 crore from the box office (domestic and international) in the first four days of it's release.
If the first four days of box-office collections give any measure of the commercial success of a Hindi-film, then the Hrithik-Aishwarya starrer period film Jodhaa Akbar may create box-office record in both US and India for the first week collections. For the first four days of its running, Jodhaa Akbar — a UTV Motion Picture release — has collected Rs 38.53 crore from the box office (domestic and international), a close second to last year's Shah Rukh Khan starrer Om Shanti Om — that grossed about Rs 42 crore for the entire week. And there is three days of collections to be added.
Also, Jodhaa Akbar is the second highest Bollywood grosser after Om Shanti Om in the US collecting $1.6 million (about Rs 6.40 crore) during the first-four days of its release. Om Shanti Om collected Rs 6.90 crore in the first-four days of its release during Diwali, last year. In recent times, only Om Shanti Om could cross the Rs 40 crore-first week collections barrier. A close second so far has been Akshay Kumar starrer Welcome as it grossed about Rs 37 crore in the first week of its release, say the film-trade websites. But Jodhaa Akbar has already crossed this mark, says film trade analyst Taran Adarsh.
Jodhaa Akbar more liked than Lagaan: Ashutosh
February 22, 2008
Ashutosh Gowariker talks about Jodhaa Akbar in an interview with CNN-IBN.
But here I must tell you it's 50 per cent of what we created and 50 per cent is what Hrithik Roshan has brought to the table. It's a combination of what we created on paper and what he aligned himself with the part. - which I think is fantastic. His whole physical presence, his good looks, his sensuality, his physicality as a warrior - I find his eyes to be very truthful. And there's a searching look in it. Full interview
Mughal-e-Awesome
February 22, 2008
TOI has a nice article about Hrithik after the success of Jodhaa Akbar saying that he would be the face of Akbar in books that need fictional visual representation of Mughal emperor.
Success saga
February 21, 2008
Trade analyst Taran Adarsh explains the success of Jodhaa Akbar at the box office
Video Download: JA Delhi Premiere - IBN
February 20, 2008
IBN has another clip of Jodhaa Akbar premiere in Delhi with comments from Hrithik about the controversy, download here
Video Download: JA Interview - CNN-IBN
February 20, 2008
Update: Here's the hi-res version of the IBN interview from Manish, download part 1, part 2, part 3, part 4, part 5.
Jodhaa Akbar grosses Rs 385 mn worldwide
February 19, 2008
Latest report on Jodhaa Akbar's performance at the box office so far.
Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan starrer Jodhaa Akbar has grossed Rs 385 million (Rs 38.50 crore) worldwide in its opening weekend (inclusive of paid previews on Thursday). As per information available from UTV, the film has grossed Rs 28 million ($ 713,000) in the UK, Rs 64 million ($ 1,600,000) in the US, Rs 18 million ($ 460,000) in the Gulf, Rs 5 million ($ 135,000) in Australia, Rs 250 million in India ($ 6,250,000) and Rs 15 million ($ 380,000) in other territories across the world.
In the US, the film has had the second highest opening ever, after Om Shanti Om. United Motion Pictures (UMP) director Siddharth Roy Kapur says, "Jodhaa Akbar has performed and exceeded our expectations. We are thrilled with the response from audiences and critics worldwide. These collections are testimony to the fact that a great movie will find its audience." Additionally, Kapur is hopeful of the film's release in Rajasthan in a few days.
Hrithik brawn seduces women
February 19, 2008
Hrithik talks about his dad's praise after the later saw Jodhaa Akbar.
When Rakesh Roshan, currently in Los Angeles, saw Jodhaa-Akbar he did what he had never done before. He told his son that in Jodhaa-Akbar he has given his best performance to date. Hrithik can't stop smiling. "Dad completely floored me. He has never complimented me in my face. Whatever his opinion of my performance he never expressed it openly so far. It was always understand between us that he appreciated my performances. But this is the first time he has come out so openly to support my performance. I'm overwhelmed," said Hrithik from Delhi after attending the premiere.
The response to the film and to his performance has so far stunned Hrithik. "People are saying such wonderful things. We wanted to make Akbar relatable to today's generation, and that's how he has turned out to be." Speaking of how female fans have responded to his sinewy show of muscle power in the sword-practising sequence Hrithik laughs, "Why shouln't a woman in those Mughal times be shown deriving voyeuristic pleasure watching her husband exercizing? The idea was to make Akbar a timeless creation. I was apprehensive about reactions. But it all turned out fine, finally. Thank God for that. The reviews have been very kind.. We were lucky, I guess."
Big B is all praise for Duggu
February 19, 2008
Hrithik received highest praise from Big B. In another report, Big B throws a surprise party at J W Marriot for Jodhaa Akbar crew.
The compliments are still pouring in for Hrithik Roshan ever since Jodhaa-Akbar hit theatres on Friday. But the one compliment Hrithik says he will treasure forever came from the film's leading lady Aishwarya Rai's father-in-law, Amitabh Bachchan. On seeing Hrithik's trance dance during the qawaali Khwaja Mere Khwaja, Amitabh Bachchan observed that not since Stanley Kubrick's legendary sci-fi 2001: A Space Odyssey has there been such an apocalyptic moment on film!
"That compliment just blew my mind," says Hrithik emotionally. "Doing Jodhaa-Akbar wasn't easy for me. That dance in a trance was especially difficult. When Ashutosh Gowariker explained the situation I just didn't know how to go about it! In that moment of spiritual ecstacy what does my character experience? I was completely puzzled." Hrithik adds, "Then I was told that it was a moment when Akbar connects with divinity. I joined the qawaali singers to dance with one hand pointing towards heaven which was receiving the divine gift, while my other hand pointed to the ground which meant I was connecting the gift received from divinity to people down below. I was the medium, the recipient of divine communication."
Video Download: JA Interview - MTV
February 18, 2008
Manish has captured an interview with Hrithik, Ash and Ashutosh on MTV, download here.
Video Download: JA Interview - CNN-IBN
February 18, 2008
CNN-IBN has posted their interview with Hrithik, Ash and Ashutosh in the studio, watch video and read transcript here. Hi-res version will be available for download soon.
Jodhaa Akbar storms the overseas market
February 17, 2008
A report on Jodhaa Akbar's performance at the box office over the weekend.
Jodhaa Akbar has stormed the International markets with bumper openings in most overseas territories. The film seems to be heading for a half million pounds weekend gross in UK with total overseas gross looking to be 10 crore plus over the weekend. It is almost certain that Jodhaa Akbar will emerge Hrithik Roshan's biggest solo overseas hit. The business will easily surpass the likes of Koi Mil Gaya and Krrish and if it keeps up at the initial pace then even the 2006 blockbsuster Dhoom 2 may be surpassed. If the total overseas business was to reach 30 crore then this will ensure profits for UTV as a 18-20 crore share is a given from India even if collections were to fall badly.
Video Download: JA Press Junket - Movie Talkies
February 17, 2008
Movie Talkies has a junket interview with Hrithik, download here
My brother Hrithik
February 17, 2008
Sunaina Roshan talks about how Hrithik has been a pillar of strength to her when she was diagnosed with cervical cancer in September last year.
While Hrithik Roshan was dubbing and filming for Jodhaa Akbar during the last few months, he was also battling with personal crisis. The actor's sibling Sunaina, who is elder to her by two years, was diagnosed with cervical cancer in September last year. Since then the actor has been a pillar of strength to Sunaina.
He not only took time out to read up on the cancer type, but also accompanied mom Pinky to various cancer specialists in the city to determine the course of treatment. Says Sunaina, "Despite his busy schedule Duggu (Hrithik) used to accompany my mom to all the cancer specialists that we had consulted. He used to be up all night to do his research on the available treatment. He has been a constant support throughout right from the day I was diagnosed with cervical cancer."
After some consultations with specialists, a MRI scan and second opinion from oncologist Dr Sachin V Almel at Hinduja Hospital, it was decided that Sunaina will have to go through six sessions of chemotherapy. While Hrithik was not by her side during all of the six sessions of chemotherapy, he was always there back at home to welcome her with a warm hug and a pat on her back. Sunaina recalls, "I ploughed through six sessions of chemotherapy, which got over on January 28. I'm feeling much better now. If it weren't for Duggu and my family, I wouldn't have recovered and recuperated so soon." Full report
Video Download: JA Premiere - IBN & Indiafm
February 17, 2008
IBN has a clip of Jodhaa Akbar premiere in Delhi, download here and Indiafm has a clip from the Mumbai premiere, footage is the same from previous sources but this one is bigger and much clearer, download here
Video Download: JA Press Junket - Reuters & NDTV
February 17, 2008
Reuters has another comment from Hrithik regarding the many controversies surrounding "Jodhaa Akbar" by the media, download here and Manish has captured another interview from NDTV, download here
JA Fans reviews and reactions
February 16, 2008
You can read fans reviews of Jodhaa Akbar here and please post yours after you've seen it. Watch fans reactions from Lehren and Indiafm and MSN
No historical movie for a long time: Hrithik Roshan
February 16, 2008
In an interview with IANS Hrithik intends to work more this year and combine business with fun.
I'm sure "Buddha" would be a great subject and a wonderful character to explore. But again playing Siddharth is about armours and horses. And I've been there, done that. The ambience, country and language would require a similar discipline for me. I wouldn't mind doing a period-fantasy like "Pirates Of The Caribbean". It's always fun to bounce off into the other extreme. "Dhoom" helped me to get excited and challenged about "Jodhaa Akbar". It was a challenge for both Ash (Aishwarya Rai) and me. Now, I want to do something entirely contemporary. Full interview
'I'm grateful to Shah Rukh': Hrithik Roshan
February 16, 2008
Hrithik talks about Jodhaa Akbar, the fans and Krazzy 4 during the promo for JA.
"Do I really look fit and good?" asks the star as girls all around shout compliments at him, and then he goes on to add, "To be frank, I am absolutely tired right now. I have been keeping a crazy schedule of late and it has been a hell of a rush." So, what kept the star going as he came visiting the capital? "All these compliments," he points towards his fans. "I guess they keep me on my feet and keep me going." But it has not been an easy journey for him... what with a spate of flops before Koi... Mil Gaya and intermittent injuries? "But a satisfying one nonetheless. I wouldn't change things for anything," he says with a smile. He will only peg them up a notch higher now that he is doing his first item number?
He laughs and adds, "Yes I am doing a song for Krazzy 4 . In fact, the film, which is being produced by my dad, already has one item number by Shah Rukh Khan." Now, wouldn't that be a double treat for the audience? Hrithik, however, sees it as reflective of the unity in the industry. "By showing this generosity and respect towards my dad, SRK has done a great thing. We, as a family, are very grateful to him. And I believe it also shows the solidarity in the industry. This definitely goes beyond the song-and-dance routine." And what does the future hold for Hrithik? "Good things, I hope," he laughs, adding, "And that because your future is decided by the efforts you put in today."
Jodhaa Akbar review
February 16, 2008
More rave reviews of Jodhaa Akbar and Hrithik's performance, click on the link for full review, I'll be adding more as and when they come. Spoilers ahead.
Performances are quite extraordinary to say the least. Hrithik Roshan as Emperor Jalaluddin Akbar seems to be the perfect cast. Everything from the majestic mannerisms, to the twinkle in his eye fit the documented character that was Akbar. His approach of reading all he could about the protagonist, and then throwing the books out and playing the role from within seems to have worked beautifully. His attention to detail and perfectionist attitude were a must for such a role. The efforts given into the thrusting of the swords and the graceful elegance in his every step portray all that is royal. His shifty transformation from the innocent young emperor with a heart of gold into the self-confident and dignified Emperor is surreptitious and seamless. Yet, his performance would have seemed incomplete if it weren't for the princess presiding beside him. -- AVS TV.
Hrithik Roshan as Akbar is magnificent, giving a fantastic performance that has to be seen to be believed; his vocal intonations and commanding expressions, working every facial muscle in delivering his lines, makes you almost believe he is a Mughal. When he proclaims 'Yeh hamaara Mulk hai' or when he says 'Hamle ke liye tayyaar' or when he admonishes his religious adviser Saadir Adasi in his court for interfering in matters of governance, you realize what a fine actor Hrithik is. Gowariker may have taken his time to make this film, but the effort is all there on the screen. You see a mature Hrithik who not only delivers fine dialogue with great command, but Gowariker puts him through an elephant taming sequence, a sword duel with Jodhaa, battles, and a climactic combat with the main villain; making good use of the build and prowess of the star, the director makes this magnum opus as young and contemporary as possible and at the same time vividly detailed in time. -- Movie Talkies.
Ravishing Rai is convincing enough but its Roshan's majestic performance as the love-struck warrior that packs the punch; it's his film from start to finish. Don't let the running time put you off watching this unashamedly epic tale. -- BBC.
Coming to performances, the main stars showcase natural chemistry and personify their characters so much that you forget you are watching actors playing a role. Hrithik Roshan as Akbar is flawless. His mannerisms and expressions are perfect, especially when he explains to his advisors to stop bringing religion in political matters. He allows his personal barriers to be broken and shows how vulnerable Akbar was to make the right decisions. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan balances her co-star by being simple, straighforward, and fearless as Jodhaa. Even though, she has a meaty role, her best sequences include Hrithik in the frame. -- Planet Bollywood.
As for Rai and Roshan, they haven't been this good in quite some time. Roshan, in particular, gives his overworked facial muscles a little time off and taps into that well of talent that stood him in good stead in movies like Lakshya. Rai proves once again that all she needs is a director who isn't awed by her physical perfection to turn in a performance that hits all the right notes. -- Desi Critics.
Hrithik proves yet again that he can seep into any role and deliver not just with credibility but with amazing sincerity. -- Andhra Cafe.
Hrithik on the other hand makes it look effortless. He is wonderful as the young Mughal Emperor! This is one actor who has an extremely malleable face. A face that can look as easily retarded as it can look regal! In his relatively short career, Hrithik has already essayed a wide variety of roles, not all of them easy, and most of them very well. This is one guy who has the potential to dwarf every other megastar that Bollywood has seen! This writer personally believes that if he did indeed say that he will one day overtake Shahrukh Khan, he is setting his sights too low! -- Mutiny.
There's Akbar, in full regalia, watching a traditional 'sufi qawalli' when he suddenly goes into a spiritual trance and joins the qawwalls for a dance to divinity. This historic moment that takes us beyond the distending dynasties of Mughal history, couldn't have been possible without Hrithik Roshan's amazing capacity to infiltrate the portals of divinity through dance movements. -- Indiafm.
Video Download: JA Mumbai Premiere - Zee News & Star News
February 15, 2008
Manish and Himanshi have captured more JA premiere clips from Zee News and Star News.
Jodhaa Akbar review
February 15, 2008
More rave reviews of Jodhaa Akbar and Hrithik's performance, click on the link for full review, I'll be adding more as and when they come. Spoilers ahead.
Hrithik Roshan as Akbar is magnificent, giving a fantastic performance that has to be seen to be believed; his vocal intonations and commanding expressions, working on every facial muscle in delivering his lines, makes you almost believe he is a Mughal. When he proclaims 'Yeh hamaara Mulk hai' or when he says 'Hamle ke liye tayyaar' or when he admonishes his religious adviser Saadir Adasi in his court for interfering in matters of governance, you realize what a fine actor Hrithik is. Gowariker may have taken his time to make this film, but the effort is all there on the screen. You see a mature Hrithik who not only delivers fine dialogue with great command, but Gowariker puts him through an elephant taming sequence, a sword duel with Jodhaa, battles, and a climactic combat with the main villain; making good use of the build and prowess of the star, the director makes this magnum opus as young and contemporary as possible and at the same time vividly detailed in time. -- MSN
Hats off to Hrithik Roshan for playing the Mughal emperor with great finesse and restraint. The way he sits on his throne, with his palms resting gracefully on his thighs, the way he wield the sword and the way he walks and talks reeks of everything that's royal. Hrithik superbly brings a transformation in his character from an indecisive, kind-hearted king to a self-assured emperor who learns to take his own decisions. -- Apunkachoice
Several new talents match their histrionics with the lead actors and acquit themselves adequately but the film really belongs to Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. Aishwarya looks ethereal and acts convincingly too but it is Hrithik who steals the show from everyone. He is absolutely brilliant as the vulnerable lover, the benevolent emperor, the swordsman and the fighter and more than worth the price of the ticket. -- DNA
It's natural that Hrithik Roshan has the meatier part. And not for a moment does he disappoint. Watch him come completely into his own…even in a role that he is obviously far removed from. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan as the reticent, yet defiant Jodhaa is pleasing and pitches in a decent performance. -- Times Now
Hrithik Roshan, as Akbar, oozes confidence and delivers a career-best performance as the unflinching emperor. Not only does he transform physically to become the part, he gets under the emotional skin of the character and makes it his own. I cannot think of any other actor who could play this better. Fact or fiction, Jodhaa Akbar is an engaging, involving movie-going experience, and puts Gowariker right up there on the very short list of India 's finest filmmakers. No prizes for guessing, I'm going with four out of five and two thumbs up for Ashutosh Gowariker's Jodhaa Akbar, it's a modern masterpiece that will be celebrated for years to come. -- CNN-IBN
Hrithik Roshan as the Great Emperor Akbar is awe-inspiring. His performance is of dizzying heights, meticulously delivered without any room for criticism. Roshan epitomizes perfection, both physically and creatively resulting in the finest screen presence to be witnessed since Amitabh Bachchan. His Akbar is powerful and unflinching yet in a split second can transform to a smirking lover of loyalty towards his queen presenting a humane depiction of a figure who was obviously more than just a temerarious ruler. Roshan proves yet again just why he is the finest male lead to grace the screen since the millennium. -- Huliq
The film of course belongs to Hrithik Roshan - he was brilliant! -- SAWF
More good reviews from Smashits and Filmicafe
Video Download: JA Premiere - IBN, Times Now, MSN & NDTV
February 15, 2008
Clips of Hrithik at the premiere of Jodhaa Akbar from CNN-IBN, Times Now, MSN and NDTV
Video Download: JA Press Junket - Reuters & NDTV
February 15, 2008
Reuters has a junket interview with Hrithik, I'm putting the flv file up for download because converting it to wmv will result in bad audio but Times Now has the same interview in wmv format with different angle, download here. NDTV also has another interview, here
"Jodhaa Akbar has been tough" - Hrithik Roshan
February 15, 2008
Hrithik talks about Jodhaa Akbar in an interview with Indiafm.
Jodhaa Akbar Premiere
February 15, 2008
Jodhaa Akbar open in theaters worldwide today, of course Hrithik and Ash attended the premiere at IMAX in Mumbai, reports from CNN IBN and Bollywood Mantra
Jodhaa Akbar Premiere Photos
February 15, 2008
Photos from the Jodhaa Akbar premiere from CNN IBN, Indiaglitz, Bollywood Mantra, Indiafm, India Times and Rediff
Jodhaa Akbar review
February 15, 2008
Rave reviews of Jodhaa Akbar from various sources, here's what the critics have to say about Hrithik's perfomances, click on the link for full review, spoilers ahead!
Hrithik embodies the great emperor without ever becoming theatrical. He is regal, imposing, sometimes haughty but always human. -- Indiaglitz
On the performance graph, no one could have possibly played Akbar with such elegance as Hrithik. Hrithik is simply fabulous. It's not just his body and looks that impress but it is the way Hrithik carries himself throughout the film. He impresses in almost every sequence. Watch out for Hrithik's duel with the elephant, his sword fight with Aishwariya , his dialogue delivery and expressiveness when he is betrayed by his step-brother. Also the climax fight sequence has some great dialogue delivery from Hrithik. -- Indiaglitz
But it is suffice to say that the Akbar we see in the film is quite an intriguing, colourful and tough ruler. And Hrithik brings his muscular presence and charismatic personality to make the role his own. Watch him negotiating with Jodhaa their troubled marriage, and the tense scene in which he saves the life of a friend and tames a wild elephant. Also, watch him in one of the most moving scenes in the film when he reveals to Jodhaa a crucial aspect of his education. Watch also his expressions when he discovers the betrayal by one of the most trusted persons of the royal household and how he lets his mother (an impressive Punam Sinha) come back fully into his life. -- Rediff review 2
Roshan proves to be a very good Akbar. There are times when his inflection seems too modern, but the actor gives the performance his all, slipping into the skin of the character and staying there. He has the right air of cocksure arrogance and bearing, also managing to convey the Emperor's sharpness. Gowariker tosses him a topless sword-practice scene graphic enough to be labeled gratuitous, and not just does the actor take it in his stride impressively well, but even makes it charming in the way he smirks for his queen. Hrithik is an increasingly remarkable blend of tremendous screen presence and acting conviction, and seems to be getting better with each film. -- Rediff review 1
Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai Bachahan in the lead role, contrary to beliefs, have come out looking super cool. Both actors complement each other, and both have been given the space to build their characters. I would rate this as Aishwarya's best performance to date. This is credit to a good director who knows how to extract a performance from his actor. As for Hrithik, he soaks in the moment and one can see him completely surrender himself to Gowariker. He has worked hard on his body language and dialogue delivery. He portrays well the qualities of Akbar. He may not be the perfect Akbar, but he does enough to relive the role of the Emperor; that of a gentle and tolerant ruler with a love for his subjects who even put his life on the line to save his country. His dialogue towards the end where he subjects himself to the might of Sharifuddin Hussain for a sword fight, 'Hum Hindustan ko galat haaton mein jaate nahin dekh sakta', draws a huge applause. -- Glamsham
With the entire movie revolving around Akbar, Hrithik has all in his favour and does complete justice to what he gets. One cannot think of a better Akbar as Hrithik effortlessly gets into his character, which the audience can easily identify with. Aishwarya and Hrithik bring to life the splendid chemistry between Jodhaa and Akbar as it is delicately simmered amidst a political backdrop. While the romance doesn't get mushy, the action doesn't get too heavy. The film very smoothly switches genres from a war drama to a love story with no palpable jolts. -- India Times
The performances are first-rate too. Hrithik Roshan looks every inch the royal emperor he's meant to be. Everything about his persona, from body language to speech or even just the way he looks at his subjects, translate into a performance, which will win the actor a number of accolades. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan too matches up to Roshan, and carries off the queen's role with aplomb. Gowariker can easily take credit for extracting one the most finely-nuanced performance from her. -- DNA
'Jodhaa-Akbar' also works because of the right casting. It's difficult to imagine anyone else in the role of Emperor Akbar. Hrithik seems born to play this role and he enacts it with such precision, such flourish, such confidence that it leaves you asking for more. A mind-boggling performance without doubt! -- MSN
More good reviews from Times Online, San Francisco Chronicles, Mid-day Xpress4me and a video of Taran Adarsh reviewing the film.
Will Hrithik and Ash pull it off this time?
February 15, 2008
Hrithik gives Ashutosh Gowariker full marks for sincerity in Jodhaa Akbar.
Can Hrithik and Aishwarya pull off a Dilip Kumar and Madhubala in the new-age Mughal-e-Azam? Hrithik is unfazed by the challenge. "The expectations are definitely high. They always are, when it comes to an Ashutosh Gowariker film, and that too a historical. But there's a new aspect to the whole challenge, namely the fact that the pair which appeared so successfully in the previous film is now doing something radically different. But that's not something Aishwarya and I nor Ashutosh need to keep in mind. Our job was to be completely true to our film without bothering about the repercussions of what came before or after Jodhaa Akbar." Hrithik gives Ashutosh Gowariker full marks for sincerity. "By the grace of God, we've created another Dhoom this time."
Hrithik Roshan Spotlight
February 15, 2008
Bollyspice has a spotlight on Hrithik on the day of the release of Jodhaa Akbar.
Hrithik is happy with Jodhaa Akbar
February 13, 2008
Hrithik is happy with the final cut of Jodhaa Akbar after the private screening of the movie last night.
Hrithik saw the film last night at a private screening at Adlabs preview theatre with UTV head honcho Ronnie Screwvala, Ashutosh Gowariker, few technicians and family members. Our sources present at the venue revel that Hrithik was happy with the final outcome and it was evident on his face. Our sources also reveal that the film has undergone trimming of 20 minutes resulting in crispier product.
Video Download: JA Press junket - MSN
February 13, 2008
MSN India has a junket interview with Hrithik and Ash, download Hrithik's interview here. More interview with the cast and crew at Indiafm
First Jodhaa Akbar review
February 13, 2008
Taran Adarsh has given Jodhaa Akbar 4 stars out of 5 in his review of the movie.
To sum up, Jodhaa Akbar leaves you spellbound, enthralled, entranced and awestruck. Ashutosh Gowariker makes the legendary characters come alive on screen. Take a bow, Ashu! Jodhaa Akbar also works because of the right casting. It's difficult to imagine anyone else in the role of Emperor Akbar. Hrithik seems born to play this role and he enacts it with such precision, such flourish, such confidence that it leaves you asking for more. A mind-boggling performance without doubt! On the whole, Jodhaa Akbar is, without a shred of doubt, a brilliant film in all respects. This historical has all it takes to prove the first blockbuster of 2008. Very strongly recommended! Full review
Interview with Hrithik on CNN IBN
February 13, 2008
CNN IBN will have an interview with Hrithik, Ash and Ashutosh, the one hour special will air on CNN-IBN on February 16 at 10 pm with repeat telecast on Feb 17 at 1:30 pm. Speaking of interview, Ashutosh will be live on Bollywood Hungama's Celebrity Chat today at 4:30 pm IST.
Hrithik talks about his passion on B4U
February 13, 2008
Hrithik will appear on B4U's StarStop show this Valentine's Day.
Hrithik Roshan the actor talks about the passion and inspiration that motivates him to do the films that he commits to. He states his penchant for doing physically demanding and strenuous films and enjoys them. VJ Salil during the course of the interview brings to fore an important aspect of Hritihik's life; working relationship with his father. Hrithik talks about their views clashing and their professional relationship and the balance they maintain. His take on Hollywood and James Bond makes for very interesting viewing. Jodha Akbar his forthcoming film forms an integral part of this interview, he reminisces fondly about the film, costumes, his chemistry with Aishwarya and incidents related to the film.
Tune in for all this and much more on B4U Music on 14th and 15th Feb 2008 on B4U StarStop at 19.10 hrs.
Bindass Jodhaa Akbar contest ad
February 13, 2008
soumyadas2112 has uploaded Bindass and JA tie up contest ad at Youtube. Winners of the 'Acer Presents Bindass be with Hrithik Contest' will get to meet Hrithik at the premiere of the film on Valentine's Day.
Jodhaa Akbar in 26 countries and 1500 screens
February 13, 2008
UTV Motion Pictures will release Jodhaa Akbar in 26 countries on Friday. In India alone the film is to be released in more than 1,300 screens, of which 500 will be digital and 825 physical prints. In the US, 122 prints will be released, the highest ever for an Indian film. The film may also be screened in Pakistan sometime in March. UTV also said that UTV said that they have postponed the release of the Tamil version of Jodhaa Akbar for a while.
Gowariker clears controversy over Jodhaa Akbar
February 13, 2008
IBN has a video interview with director Ashutosh Gowariker where he talks about the controversy over Jodhaa Akbar. Rediff has an interview with producer Ronnie Screwvala and costume desiger Neeta Lulla talks about Jodhaa-Akbar's elaborate outfits.
Help promote Jodhaa Akbar
February 12, 2008
Vani has compiled a list of several ways on how you can help promote Jodhaa Akbar, the movie opens worldwide on Friday, February 15, it's time to do our part as fans and help promote this epic movie. Click here to see how you can help spread the word.
Making Jodhaa Akbar visually stunning
February 12, 2008
Jodhaa Akbar director of photography, Kiran Deohans talks about the making of the movie.
Video Download: Interview with Hrithik on NDTV 24x7
February 11, 2008
NDTV has posted the entire Hrithik's interview with Anupama Verma, download part 1 and part 2
Video Download: Interview with Hrithik on NDTV
February 11, 2008
Manish has captured another interview with Hrithik on NDTV, download at 4shared part 1, part 2 and part 3 or on HRO server, part 1, part 2 and part 3
Bollywood Princess, Hollywood Hopeful
February 11, 2008
The New York Times has a nice article on Hrithik and Ash.
Bindass rolls contest around Jodhaa Akbar
February 11, 2008
UTV's youth channel Bindass has rolled out a contest around the upcoming period film Jodhaa Akbar. Winners will get a chance to meet Hrithik. Viewers can watch Bindass and answer a simple question asked on the film Jodhaa Akbar. The contest is called Acer Presents Bindass be with Hrithik Contest. Winners of the Acer Presents Bindass be with Hrithik Contest will get to meet Hrithik at the premiere of the film on Valentine's Day.
JA is three and half hours long
February 11, 2008
Director Ashutosh Gowariker has revealed that the playing time for Jodhaa Akbar is three hours, 20 minutes.
Director Ashutosh Gowariker has revealed that the playing time for his much awaited historical romance 'Jodhaa Akbar' is three hours, 20 minutes. The dubbing for the film, which releases February 15, is over and mixing is underway.
"After editing and mixing it finally comes to 3 hours, 20 minutes of playing time, which is still less than my 'Lagaan'," Gowariker, who has just come back from a prolonged period of confinement due to a bad back, said.
The Hrithik Roshan-Aishwarya Rai starrer, produced by UTV, is set in the 16th Century and revolves around the romance between Mughal emperor Jalaluddin Akbar and Rajput princess Jodha Bai. Talking about his illness, the director said, "Though I've not fully recovered, I am now active." "It's quite a Valentine's Day release, don't you think? A legendary Hindu-Muslim love story," chuckled Gowariker.
Jodhaa Akbar cleared by Censor Board
February 7, 2008
Ashutosh Gowariker's epic romance Jodhaa Akbar has been cleared by the Censor Board with a UA certificate and without any cuts.
Scheduled to release on February 15, the Board has asked Gowariker to put a disclaimer on the various names of Jodhabai, and asked him to retain only the name Jodhabai. The director has already inserted a disclaimer in English but he has been asked to put it in Hindi too. It maybe recalled that there has been a debate over the name of Akbar's queen. Some historians state that she was called Harkhabai, Shai Bai and Man Mati, but Ashutosh Gowariker, reportedly, clarified that he consulted the royal family of Jaipur who gave him a clearance to use the name Jodha. Vinayak Azad, the regional officer of the Censor Board, said, "We have advised Ashutosh Gowariker to put an additional disclaimer stating that the historical facts shown in the film are just one version of history and there may be another version."
Video: Making of Jodhaa Akbar
February 7, 2008
Indiafm has posted the making of Jodhaa Akbar, not really the making but more of a press junket, I'm down with the flu at the moment, I'll grab and make it available for download probably on Sunday. Update: Since I'm online might as well do it now, download part 1 and part 2
Video Download: Interview with Hrithik on NDTV
February 7, 2008
NDTV has another clip of Hrithik talking about how he fights fears through his characters. The entire interview will be aired on Picture This on Friday on NDTV 24/7. I will put it up for download when it's available.
UTV goes it alone for Jodhaa Akbar
February 7, 2008
UTV announce that they are releasing Jodhaa Akbar themselves.
Siddharth Roy Kapur, executive vice-president, marketing, syndication, distribution at UTV however rebutted all talk of the Hrithik-Ash film finding to takers. "We are giving Jodhaa Akbar the biggest release ever for an Indian film with more than 1,500 screens in 26 countries across the world. In the USA we are releasing more than 120 prints, by far the biggest release ever in that market. In fact, for the first time in the US market more than 70 per cent of the theatres screening the film are in mainline multiplexes. In India, we are releasing more than 825 prints and another 500 digital prints. This is completely unprecedented and all of us at UTV and Ashutosh Gowariker Productions' are thrilled with the response we have already got from the trade," he told this newspaper.
Video Download: JA Dialogue Promo
February 5, 2008
Yesterday I posted the first dialogue promo from JA, now the official site has been updated with the other two dialogue promos, download here
Abhishek loves JA music
February 5, 2008
In an interview with TOI, Abhishek Bachchan mentioned his wife Aish and Jodhaa Akbar's music. "Yes, she has Jodha Akbar . I've seen the trailer and heard the music. I love it! And I'm not saying this because of my wife or dear friend Duggu (Hrithik). I really like her pairing with him. I think they looked good together in Dhoom 2 as well"
Win free tickets to Jodhaa Akbar
February 5, 2008
Buzz18 is giving away free tickets to see Jodhaa Akbar, details here
Video Download: Interview with Hrithik on NDTV
February 4, 2008
Hrithik talks about Hollywood and the Indian dream on NDTV, download here
Not about the money, honey?
February 4, 2008
Hrithik's comment on ads and endorsements.
Hrithik Roshan, who has upped his stake, signing on around eight more brands in last three months, which are estimated to bring an additional Rs 4-8 crore per year, says, "I wouldn't deny money plays a major part, but believe me or not, they can also be creatively satisfying for an actor. I look at ad films as these short, impactful films which are really interesting. The best thing is the film doesn't ride on your shoulders and the responsibility is far lesser than a film. An advertisement film not being accepted well, doesn't really affect the actor's status. Also, I see them as something where you can explore different characters and let yourself go. You can have lot more fun with them. Ads can really open you up as an actor," he says.
Video Download: JA Dialogue Promo 1
February 4, 2008
Himanshi and Manish has captured the first dialogue promo from Jodhaa Akbar, download here
Video Download: Jodhaa Akbar Press Junket - NDTV
February 3, 2008
Manish has captured an interview with Ashutosh on NDTV where he talks about selecting Hrithik as Akbar and Hrithik and Aish's working style, download part 1 and part 2. Another clip is an interview with the cast and a clip of 'Man Mohana' from Aaj Tak Special, download here.
Video Download: Jodhaa Akbar Tanishq commercial
February 3, 2008
Manish has a clip from Tanishq jewelry ad for Jodhaa Akbar, the clip contains new scene from the movie, watch and download here
Interview with Hrithik
February 3, 2008
More new interview with Hrithik talking about Jodhaa Akbar and more from DNA and Hindustan Times.
Making Jodhaa-Akbar dance
February 3, 2008
Choreographer Chinni Prakash takes us behind the scenes of Jodhaa Akbar with pics of Hrithik on the set.
King of fortune
February 1, 2008
In an interview with Express India, Hrithik talks about Jodhaa Akbar, Hrehaan, Krrish and Krazzy 4.
"The whole team would have wanted Jodhaa to release last October, but we can't tolerate mediocrity. We were ready to go the extra mile and work harder," says the actor who plays Emperor Akbar. He may wax serious but his enthusiasm can hardly be disguised. "I wish I could do 10 films each year. But fortunately or unfortunately, my movies like Krrish and Dhoom 2 take months to make," he says, adding he hasn't signed another film in the last year.
That, however, means more time for son Hrehaan. "He has been watching Dhoom 2 every day, since he was eight months old. Now he has taken to watching Krrish," he says indulgently. Roshan who has a huge fan following among children (besides women because of his natural good looks) has good news for Krrish fans. "We're working on the script of Krrish's sequel. We hope to begin shooting at the end of this year," he reveals. "At the right time, I'll be ready to jump from even higher buildings and swing across cities."
But before that special effects shenanigan, the actor has Anurag Basu's next film waiting for him, the shooting of which begins in May. "I am a fan of Anurag's work and I love his expression of human emotions," the 35-year-old actor says. While his fans will miss out on his fabulous dance moves in Jodhaa, he plans to make up with an item number in dad Rakesh Roshan's next production Krazzzy 4. "I am dancing after two years. I think it's the best item dance I have ever done," he says excitedly. Roshan had a chronic injury in his knees during his non-stop shooting schedules of Krrish and Dhoom 2. "I didn't rest," he says. "Thankfully, I'm fit enough to break my knees again."
Thank God, I'm not dancing: Hrithik
February 1, 2008
Hrithik talks more on Jodhaa Akbar in a separate interview with Hindustan Times.
I am a very shy person. Akbar was a commander. That gave me immense driving force. I read a lot about Akbar. I wanted the character to be my interpretation derived from what's available. I wanted it to come within me. So I put myself in his shoes, his surrounding keeping in mind his lineage and upbringing.
The film certainly explores the love-relationship of a couple, who got married some hundreds of years ago. But the basics of a successful relationship are no different than now. Akbar is somebody who is very identifiable. At least that's the way I've portrayed him. We have shot the film when Akbar is breaking out of his shell and how this love-story stimulates that. Jalal-Jodha are very real and identifiable. Thank god, I'm not dancing at all in this film. I am an actor, not a dancer. If I was a dancer, I would be saying something else right now. In this film, Akbar's life doesn't motivate such a situation.
Yeah, I have signed a contract with an actor management company. What's the big deal? I'm trying to explore what is out there, something that could possibly excite me to do an English language film. And I am equally looking for a good Hindi film. The language doesn't matter.
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