BHOOTHNATH

B.R. Films are characterised by their themes of social relevance and firm, often conservative moral positions. Producer Ravi Chopra continues the tradition laid down by his father – B. R. Chopra in films like the popular Baghban (2004) the less popular Babul (2006)and in his latest offering – Bhoothnath. The custodians of the most laudable values in all these films have been patriarchal characters played by Amitabh Bachchan.

Yet Bhoothnath is different because it seems to be pitched more at children with about two-thirds of the film dedicated to light-weight, cartoon-like scenarios that had me wondering if I’d come to the wrong film. It felt “wrong” in the sense that I was an adult trying to assess whether kids would like what was on offer. The ending however, confirmed that this was indeed a B. R. Film, delivering a powerful universal message economically and effectively and confirming that debutante director Vivek Sharma does know his craft. Sharma, who has worked in post-production and as an associate director for the last 10 years, also wrote the screenplay for this film wherein lies the problem.

The more impressive scenes only kick in towards the end. In true B.R. Chopra form, Aman and a buddy perform a play about the bhoot at a school concert. This triggers a sequence of events that changes the tone, style and impact of the film. The ghost’s back-story is presented in flashback with strong resonances of Baghban and an added layer of meaning. According to Sharma, the impasse occasioned by inter-generational conflict needs to be reassessed in the light of forgiveness. The segue into the song Samay Ka Pahiya was beautifully done and the song itself was well picturized, affirming the values that B. R. Films so lovingly endorse.

In reality Bhoothnath is two rather mismatched films in one. It’s a light film for young children with a much weightier adult oriented ending. Some younger children may find some of the later scenes distressing but they covey a clear message to more sophisticated youngsters and adults.

Shah Rukh to stay away from Knight Riders matches

Kolkata, (IANS) Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan has decided to stay away from Indian Premier League (IPL) matches involving his team Knight Riders until he has a clear understanding of the code of conduct.
Shah Rukh was reportedly peeved after being not allowed to sit in the players' dug-out by ICC Anti-Corruption officials.
"I am still trying to understand the code of conduct expected of me at the matches of the IPL... ICC etc. After I understand it, I will decide whether to accept it or not. Till such time, I will be with you guys at the hotel, in the meeting but will not come for the matches," Shah Rukh said in a lengthy SMS to the Knight Riders team members.
Shah Rukh said his absence from the field had nothing to do with the team's poor performance.
"Please do not ever feel it is anything to do with us as a team. I am as dedicated to my Knights as I am to my kids. Only, I won't be coming to the class room till the headmasters' rules are understood by me. I am a bit anti-establishment kind of a guy, so I apologise for this quirk to you all."
Shah Rukh also denied reports of any rift with Knight Riders captain Sourav Ganguly and coach John Buchanan.

Shah Rukh to stay away from Knight Riders matches

Kolkata, (IANS) Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan has decided to stay away from Indian Premier League (IPL) matches involving his team Knight Riders until he has a clear understanding of the code of conduct.
Shah Rukh was reportedly peeved after being not allowed to sit in the players' dug-out by ICC Anti-Corruption officials.
"I am still trying to understand the code of conduct expected of me at the matches of the IPL... ICC etc. After I understand it, I will decide whether to accept it or not. Till such time, I will be with you guys at the hotel, in the meeting but will not come for the matches," Shah Rukh said in a lengthy SMS to the Knight Riders team members.
Shah Rukh said his absence from the field had nothing to do with the team's poor performance.
"Please do not ever feel it is anything to do with us as a team. I am as dedicated to my Knights as I am to my kids. Only, I won't be coming to the class room till the headmasters' rules are understood by me. I am a bit anti-establishment kind of a guy, so I apologise for this quirk to you all."
Shah Rukh also denied reports of any rift with Knight Riders captain Sourav Ganguly and coach John Buchanan.