‘Ek Tha Tiger’ makes Rs 100 crores in just 5 days!

Mumbai: This was expected. Salman Khan’s ‘Ek Tha Tiger’ has created a new record of sorts by earning the much ‘acclaimed’ Rs 100 crores the fastest. The film, which beat ‘Agneepath’ and had the biggest opening-Rs 32 crores on its first day of release has made to the elite 100 crore club in just 5 days!

Trade analyst and movie critic Taran Adarsh tweeted, “#EkThaTiger - India *actuals* Sun 23.06 cr. Total: 100.16 cr nett. SUPERB. Fastest 100 cr grosser ever - 5 days [Hindi films]. NEW RECORD!(sic)”

Salman’s sister, Arpita Khan happily tweeted the numbers. “Total 100.16 C in 5 days.. And the TIGER ROARS! Tiger Tiger Tiger.(sic)"

Produced by the Yash Raj banner and directed by Kabir Khan, ETT was in news also for its pairing as it was the first film that Salman and Katrina signed post their break up in 2010.

Expectations were also high from the film as three of Salman’s previous films-‘Dabangg’, ‘Ready’ and Bodyguard’, were declared blockbusters.
Taran Adarsh tweeted, “#EkThaTiger is @BeingSalmanKhan `s 4th century [100 cr], the other three being #Dabangg [147 cr], #Ready [122 cr] and #Bodyguard [148 cr].(sic)”

Incidentally, ETT is Yash Raj’s first film to get into the 100 crore club, Adarsh added. And now, trade pundits and hoping that ETT breaks the record of ’3 Idiots’ which had grossed more than 200 crores at the Box Office.

Salman, who has been having Eid releases for the past few years, had ensured that ETT gets released on Eid this year. While the collections continue to increase every day, one thing is for sure, that Salman has cemented his place in the industry and can easily be called the undisputed king of Bollywood.

Ek Tha Tiger smashes Agneepath collection at Box Office

Hrithik Roshan's Agneepath, which was released on Republic day, January 26, 2012, has shattered several previous records and has become the highest grosser movie of the year. Now, Salman Khan's latest film Ek Tha Tiger, which has already beaten its first day collection, has smashed its first weekend collection in just four days. With one day left to complete its first weekend, it has already set a new bench mark.

Agneepath had collected Rs 23 crore nett at the domestic Box Office on the first day. Ek Tha Tiger, which got a mind-blowing response, has broken this record with its collection crossing Rs 32.92 crore on the opening day. But like Agneepath, Salman-Katrina starrer too witnessed a big downfall in its business on the following days.

The collections of Ek Tha Tiger fell down by more than 50% on Thursday with its two day collection reaching Rs 14.5 crore. Its business continued to fall on Friday too. It added Rs 12.90 crores to its three day total Rs 60.35 crores nett. Trade experts expected it to beat the weekend collection of Agneepath in just three days, but it could not.

Ek Tha Tiger had an average response in morning and matinee shows on Saturday. But the movie witnessed a big jump in its business in the afternoon and evening shows. The movie has collected nearly Rs 16.75 crores at the Box Office taking its four day collection to Rs 77.10 crore nett.

However, Agneepath had collected Rs 67.5 crores nett at the Indian Box Office in the four day extended weekend. Ek Tha Tiger has crossed this mark on Saturday. It is expected to do better collection on Sunday. If it does, the movie would cross Rs 100 crore mark in the five-day extended first weekend.

Ek Tha Tiger Review – Eid feasting for Salman fans!

Thanks to the super hype and hullabaloo surrounding Ek Tha Tiger, I along with few of my friends went to watch the Salman-Katrina starrer film, produced by Aditya Chopra and directed by Kabir Khan. ETT is also Salman's first film with Yash Raj Films. Music is by Sohail Sen and has a guest composition by Sajid-Wajid.

There is no doubt that Sallu makes a 'cool' entry. All 'bhais' will definitely love the way Salman Khan enters (kicking a person's face and cigarettes flying). First part is slow but definitely you will enjoy Katrina Kaif and Salman's humorous jokes. But before you say 'whow,' wait just for a while!

The second half seemed boring, and I bet you will start yawning if you are not watching it on the big screen! There is no logic; I mean though I agree that love can happen anytime and anywhere, but here it all happens too fast - falling in love, accepting and running away. I can't imagine as to how a dedicated agent can take out bulk money, run away from place to place...silly!

There is more of illogical stuff out there....Stopping the train by hanging overcoat to the antenna of train (I don't know what you call that) and the shirt doesn't catch fire; jumping from one building to another, bus-car....whatever comes on the way.

Honestly, I saw more of running and jumping in the movie which reminded me of Sanjay Leela Bhansali as he makes all his heroines run so much (excluding jumps).

As for Katrina, her expressions were rather dull, though I must admit that she has improved a lot. Needless to say, the hottie has done the 'action' and dance' bit very well. It's a pleasure to see the chemistry between Salman and Katrina. They look awesome together.

Music is good, though not very impressive.

Ek Tha Tiger's only 'saving grace' is TIGER - Salman Khan! Sallu's innocent face, style and stunts is what that has taken the film so far!

I would give two and half stars for this. One and a half for Salman, half star each for Katrina Kaif and music.

Who will like ETT:
1) Only 'Die-hard' Salman Khan fans will like this.
2) Action lovers.

Movie of Salman Khan's Ek Tha Tiger crosses 100 crore mark at Box Office in 5 days

Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif starrer latest Hindi movie Ek Tha Tiger, which released on August 15, has done superb collections at the Indian Box Office. The movie has broken the first weekend collection of Sallu's previous film Bodyguard, which had grossed Rs 85.50 crore in five day extended first weekend. It has set new bench mark by crossing Rs 100 crore mark at the domestic collection centres in its opening weekend.

Ek Tha Tiger opened to an earth-shattering response at the Box Office. The Kabir Khan directed flick registered 100% occupancy at both single screens and multiplexes across the country and raked in Rs 32.92 crore on its opening day. With this, it shattered the first day collection record of Hrithik Roshan starrer Agneepath, which had grossed Rs 23 crores nett.

But the business of Ek Tha Tiger dipped more than 50% on Thursday and it further went down on Friday. The movie witnessed a big jump in its collection on Saturday and Sunday. Trade analyst Taran Adarsh tweeted yesterday, "#EkThaTiger *India* Sunday trends: Better than Saturday. Another BIG jump expected today."

Ek Tha Tiger has scored Rs 77.10 crores nett at the Indian collection centres in four days. Its breakup is Rs 32.92 cr on Wed, Rs 14.5 cr on Thur, Rs 12.90 cr on Fri and Rs 16.75 cr on Sat. As per the trade experts' calculations, the film would add Rs 23 crores nett on Sunday to make it Rs 100 crore in its first weekend at the Box Office.

However, Ek Tha Tiger has become all time highest grosser movie in the first weekend. Salmania is the main reason for its huge response. The makers of the film had massive promotion for it. Salman and Katrina's superb performance, real storyline, amazing music and camera work are its major attractions. In addition, the movie received positive reviews from film critics and viewers.

Ek Tha Tiger breaks first weekend record

Salman Khan's Ek Tha Tiger is making fresh records with each passing day. Now the film which has garnered about Rs. 59 crore at the box office in 3 days holds the highest ever first weekend collections record in Indian history.

"Ek Tha Tiger made an approx 11.75 Crores on it’s 1st Friday at the box office. After opening a humongous 32.92 Crores and grossing 14.55 Crores on it's 2nd day, Ek Tha Tiger looks pretty steady with  59.22 Crores in it’s pocket," reports Koimoi.com.

The movie might have seen a steady fall in its last two days but one can surely account that to working days not being huge grossing days. However, Ek Tha Tiger has created a new record at the Indian Box Office. In its 1st weekend (i.e. 1st 3 days run) it has grossed about 59 crores which is the highest ever in Indian history. Post Monday, when the fasting season of Ramadan gets over, there is no saying what collections will the movie make," adds the website.

2nd day collections
"After shattering every record possible to shreds Ek Tha Tiger moved to its 2nd day. As per early estimates the movie would have made 16 crores on it’s Day 2 at the Indian Box Office. Ek Tha Tiger had grossed a humongous 32.92 crores on its Day 1 and its total box office collections till date stands at 48.92 crores," reported Koimoi.com.

"The fall was quite expected as Thursday was a working day and not a holiday unlike Wednesday. However, the movie is expected to hit the chords again this weekend. There is no doubt that Ek Tha Tiger will prove to be an all time blockbuster at the box office if it sustains its momentum even for a weekend," added the website.

1st day fever
"#EkThaTiger biz on Wed is humungous, historic. But wait for Eid celebrations. It will create History *again*. Picture abhi baaki hain!" Taran Adarsh wrote.

"The 1st day box office collections of Ek Tha Tiger can be simply termed in one word as 'spectacular'. Something like this has never before happened in Bollywood. The movie made an approx. 30 crores (as per early estimates) on it's Day 1 at the Indian box office. Ek Tha Tiger did not just do good in a few circuits as there is really no circuit where the movie didn't break apart a set record," reports Koimoi.com.

"Ek Tha Tiger has smashed the opening day collections of Hrithik Roshan's Agneepath which had amassed a mammoth 23 crores. The movie also broke the much hyped Shahrukh Khan's Ra.One opening day record of 25 crores. Salman is out to break all the box office records ever set in India," adds the website

CRITICS' TAKE

Salman Khan’s ‘Ek Tha Tiger’ roars; Box Office collection estimated around Rs 35 cr

Mumbai: Salman Khan’s most awaited film ‘Ek Tha Tiger’ might have received mixed response from critics, but the Kabir Khan film has kept the Box Office ringing since its release.

Produced by Yash Raj Films, ETT has been shot at expensive locales spread across 5 countries. The Rs 75 crore budget film has reportedly made a business of Rs 32 crore on the first day itself!

Popular trade analyst Taran Adarsh took to Twitter to write, “#EkThaTiger Wed biz still being compiled. Yashraj still getting data. So one can only estimate. Anywhere between 32 to 35 cr nett. Ab bolo!(sic), and added, “To state that #EkThaTiger has created History would be wrong. Wed figures are BEYOND HISTORIC(sic).”

The film has received unprecedented response in just a day’s time. Wonder what the weekend will unfold!

By Zeenews Bureau

Salman Khan's Ek Tha Tiger gets massive opening at Chennai Box Office

Chennai: Salman Khan's Ek Tha Tiger has got an earth-shattering opening in Chennai. The movie, which is released in 45 screens in Tamil Nadu, ran to packed houses in and around the city.

Traders say that as there were no big Tamil releases, Ek Tha Tiger was grandly welcomed by Tamil audience. It is noted that very rarely a Hindi movie gets such an opening in the state, as the Bollywood movies are still not so popular in Tamil Nadu.

While Ek Tha Tiger did an amazing business in and around Chennai, the other regions got decent response, say traders. The Salman Khan starrer movie is distributed by Sathyam Cinema and it is released in 20 screens in Chennai alone. In the recent times, Shahrukh Khan's Ra.One and Akshay Kumar's Rowdy Rathore, the Hindi version of Siruthai, did notable business at the Chennai Box Office.


Watch the movie review of EK THA TIGER

The theatres across the country screening Ek Tha Tiger were overflowing with movie buffs within and outside in the morning shows. In many places, the theatre owners had to call the police to control the mob. Trade analysts have already predicted that Ek Tha Tiger would collect Rs 27 to 30 crores nett on the first day.

Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif starrer Ek Tha Tiger is an out-and-out action entertainer. It is directed by Kabir Khan and produced by Yash Raj Films. Sathyam Cinemas is distributing the movie in Tamil Nadu.

‘Ek Tha Tiger’ Review: Kabir Khan fails to impress; film thoroughly disappointing

What would you expect when Salman Khan, Kabir Khan and Yash Raj Films team up- a super masala entertainer, right?

‘Ek Tha Tiger’ looked very promising prior to its release and the film does entertain you to an extent but also compels you to wonder if you truly want to ridicule your intelligence.

After ‘Wanted’, ‘Dabangg’ and ‘Bodyguard’, ‘Ek Tha Tiger’ - yet another Eid release of Salman Khan - might just make it to the Rs100 crore club, courtesy his incredible fan following and an intriguing first half. But the film sadly falls in the same trap like other Salman films which lack content.

Salman Khan plays Tiger, a code name given to him by Research & Analysis Wing (RAW) of India. But the role of an intelligence officer has been manipulated to the core to befit a masala entertainer!

After a successful mission in Iraq, Tiger is now entrusted with the task of collecting external intelligence by spying on a Trinity College Professor, who has apparently been approached by the ISI for sharing missile technology secrets.

Tiger flies down to Dublin, the Irish capital, to follow the Professor. And that is where he ends up meeting his ladylove (Zoya) Katrina Kaif, the professor’s residence caretaker. Tiger introduces himself as Manish Chandra, a writer, and seeks her help in getting an appointment with the professor.

Zoya extends all possible help to a shelter-less Manish and befriends him. And that is when seeds of romance are sowed!

Though Tiger knows that he is on a mission and he dare not fall in love, he loses his heart to Zoya, who could act as a catalyst in providing information about the professor. Tiger is constantly reminded of his duties by Gopi (Ranvir Shorey), his colleague, not to lose his heart while on a mission but he does approve of Tiger’s choice of a Bhabhi for him!

Zoya, who also happens to be a dance instructor, invites Tiger for a show and here is where you would find a twist in the tale!

After an incredible ‘Kabul Express’ and somewhat gritty `New York`, a masala entertainer like ETT wasn’t expected from director Kabir Khan. Yash Raj Films has certainly spent a whopping amount on the exotic locations that are a treat to watch but haven’t helped the film gain a cult status.

However, the film does have superbly directed action sequences, foot-tapping songs by Sohail Sen and Sajid-Wajid, and a tinge of Salman Khan`s special comedy that does make you cheer.

And mostly importantly, though Salman and Katrina deny being in a relationship in real life, their chemistry onscreen looks every bit convincing. And the duo is an absolute delight to the eyes!

But over all, the film does disappoint you for it fails to deliver what it promised.

If you are a Salman Khan fan, you would love it for sure and the movie might rake-in the moolah because of the superstar! It will certainly entertain you if you leave your brains outside the theatre!



By Zeenews (Gayatri Sankar)

Movie Review: Ek THA TIGER

 Cast: Salman Khan as Tiger, Katrina Kaif as Zoya, Ranvir Shorey as Gopi, Girish Karnad as Shenoy


Director: Kabir Khan

Producer: Aditya Chopra

Music Director: Sohail Sen , Sajid Ali , Wajid Ali

Lyricst: Neelesh Misra

 
"Maine jo ek baar committment kar di, toh main apni bhi nahi sunta"- believe in the tiger's words, he has fulfilled his committment. Salman Khan does it once again with the year's most-awaited movie Ek Tha Tiger, that has released today. Directed by Kabir Khan, Ek Tha Tiger, that features Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif, is an action, spy thriller, with a dose of romance too. The film has been making headlines ever since it was conceptualised. And if the promos of the movie is any indication, Ek Tha Tiger has all the ingredients to make it to the top five movies of the year.

What is the story all about?

Ek Tha Tiger is a romantic thriller that revolves around the story of a Trinity College scientist, suspected of selling missile technology secrets to Pakistan. The Indian government sends a secret agent, codenamed Tiger (Salman Khan) to find out about the professor's activities. Tiger gradually falls in love with the professor's caretaker Zoya (Katrina Kaif), who is studying at a fictional dance academy. The film engages you strongly with several twists and turns. What happens next? Will Tiger gain victory in his mission or will love take an upper hand? Katrina conceals her real identity behind her barbie doll face. What's that? Will that endanger Tiger's mission?

Verdict on performances:

Termed as the mass entertainer, Salman Khan needs no verdict on his acting skills. What makes us love him in the movie is his rugged Tiger-like attitude, that suits him the best. Salman gets into the skin of his raw, rugged, edgy character and makes you admire over his marvellous performance.

When Kabir Khan claimed that everyone will get to see Katrina Kaif's acting potential in the film, it wasn't just a mere statement. He meant it and Kats did it. For all those who believe, Katrina is nothing, but, just a pretty face, Ek Tha Tiger is the answer for them. Katrina Kaif, not only looks super stunning in the movie, but, the girl proves that she's no less in acting as well. The girl definitely gets a thumbs up for her improvised hindi diction and good performance in Ek Tha Tiger.

Ek Tha Tiger, high on action:

The film starts with some heavy dose of action and introduces you with the Tiger Khan. Salman's entry in the film is sure to give you goosebumps. Khan's kingly and smashing entry is just wow and makes you say, "The real tiger is back with a bang." The action sequences in Ek Tha Tiger looks real yet, retains the element of larger-than-life heroism. Katrina Kaif is a surprise here. She is much more than just a barbie doll. Katrina lives up to Salman's Tiger image, with some good action, which is generally not expected from a sweet, petite girl.

Positives: The second half is gripping. Ek Tha Tiger will rock because of two strong points- good story and Salman's action packed performance, which is completely different from his other movies. On the other hand, despite the alleged break up, Salman and Katrina haven't lost an iota of the chemistry, that makes them Bollywood's ultimate power couple, which they have proved in Ek Tha Tiger. The comfort zone that the couple have shared in the second half of the movie, makes their romance look genuine and real. Ek Tha Tiger gives us the larger than life picture, with some beautiful and exotic scenaries.

Negatives: Katrina Kaif could have worked more on her facial expressions. The first half lacks passion and romance. In fact, at times, romance looks very dull and lacklustre between Salman and Katrina. The film leaves a big question that how can the Indian Government leave Tiger (Salman), a RAW agent so easily? What's more illogical is that how can such a tough RAW agent fall for a girl so easily, especially when he is on a mission?

Verdict: Ek tha Tiger gets a thumbs up. Ek Tha Tiger leaves a strong message on this Independence day. The film conveys that love goes beyond border. No matter if it's India or Pakistan, love and friendship always an upper hand.

BOX OFFICE: Salman Khan’s ‘Ek Tha Tiger’ Breaks All Opening Records

MUMBAI: Today morning India saw the magic of a ‘movie-star’. They queued up for ‘Ek Tha Tiger’ tickets even before the sun rose, while 80% of tickets were already sold out when the advance booking opened.

‘Ek Tha Tiger’ registers 100% opening in almost all centers.

Maddening crowds conquered cinemas for the ‘First Day, First Show’ of the movie, which features their ‘icon’ – Salman Khan. This is not the story of just a city, or a single-screen cinema, but almost entire country experienced this ‘mind-numbing’ phenomena.

‘Ek Tha Tiger’ has opened to full-houses, registering 100% opening in Gujarat, Punjab, Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Bihar regions. All opening shows in Mumbai too saw 100% occupancy.

It’s too early to put a figure to the collections so far by ‘Ek Tha Tiger’, but going by the 100% opening at not just few cities, but almost entire country, it would not be early to say that Salman Khan’s ‘Ek Tha Tiger’ has taken the biggest opening ever, surpassing by far all the previous opening records.

Stay tuned for more!

Watch out all Video Songs From the latest Movie of Salman - Katrina "Ek Tha Tiger"

Let's Check out all the Video songs From Ek Tha Tiger

1.  Watch MashAllah Full Video Song Ek Tha Tiger - Salman Khan, Katrina Kaif
2. Watch Laapata Song From Ek Tha Tiger

3. Watch the Banjaara Song From Ek Tha Tiger
4.Watch Saiyaara Song From Ek Tha Tiger

Salman Khan was the first choice for 'Ek Tha Tiger'

Mumbai: Kabir Khan is currently waiting with bated breath for the release of his upcoming film, starring Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif. The former documentary filmmaker started his Bollywood career with 'Kabul Express', followed by 'New York'.

During the course of the conversation, while Khan admits that the industry today is indeed driven by numbers, he doesn’t wish to conform to the media’s make-believe clubs. In a freewheeling chat, he talks about his experience with Salman, the actor’s chemistry with former ladylove Katrina and the Rs 100-crore club...

Salman had a surgery during the making of the film. Did it affect the overall outcome?

No, it happened at the very beginning of the project. He took a proper break to get his nerve disorder in the face treated. We commenced only after his surgery, so there was no delay or interruption of any sort.

Is it true that Hrithik Roshan was the first choice for the film?

These were mere speculations. Yash Raj banner makes many films at the same time and at the end of the day, how many actors can you call Tiger in the industry? Also, I’m one of those filmmakers who write a story keeping the actor’s personality in mind.

So Salman it was from the beginning...?

Absolutely. He has the inherent qualities of the character I had envisioned even before we got down to shoot. In the film, Salman’s simply a legend and needless to say, he fits to the tee. Today, I can’t see anyone else in this role.

Did his personal equation with Katrina ever come in the way of the film?

As far as I could see, they were extremely friendly and comfortable in each other’s presence throughout the shoot. After all, they’ve known each other for almost a decade now. Their chemistry speaks for itself on the screen.

What do you think of the Rs 100 crore club?

It’s just a media creation. (Laughs) I don’t know where this club is or where its headquarter is located. Is it in Lokhandwala? (Laughs again) The box office collection is indeed a parameter of success but it’s not the only one. Earlier, we used to judge a film by its silver or golden jubilee. Personally, I believe numbers don’t always justify success. Just because Spider-Man rakes in more money doesn’t make it a superior film than Rain Man.

There are talks about you moving away from the Yash Raj camp and working with Sajid Nadiadwala. Is it true?

As of now, there are only talks going on. Nothing has been finalised yet. Anyway, it’s not like I’ll leave this production house for good and not come back to work again. Aditya (Chopra) has supported me from the very beginning and I’ll always remain thankful for that.

Salman eyeing Aamir, SRK, Hrithik's records

Ek Tha Tiger releases tomorrow and trade, industry as well as soothsayers have only one question on their lips - 'Will Salman Khan end up creating new records with this film?' Such is the buildup of hype around the film that while it is a given that the film would cross the Rs.100 crores milestone, the debate is around several other records that are coming under the scanner.

"To begin with, Salman is now all set to regain the opening day record that was created with Bodyguard last Eid", comments an insider, "It was tipped by Hrithik Roshan with Agneepath earlier this year but with expectation of nothing less than Rs. 30 crores opening day for Ek Tha Tiger, not just Hrithik but even Shah Rukh's Ra.One'' record of highest day ever would be smashed."

Meanwhile bets are being placed on the number of days in which Ek Tha Tiger would cross the Rs. 100 crore milestone. The record is currently held by Salman himself whose Bodyguard had managed this total in its extended week last year. Now for Ek Tha Tiger it is expected that Salman would manage this huge moolah in five-six days flat.

"With ticket rates being hiked and the film releasing at record number of screens, this is not impossible either", an exhibitor adds, "However that is just the beginning. Real fun would begin from Monday onwards after Eid. If the film is indeed appreciated, sky would be the limit as Muslim audiences are expected to flock the theatres on weekdays as well. It would be the best Eid haul ever for Bollywood if the film lives up to the hype."

That would result in another round of calculations for the film because it would be Aamir Khan's record of 3 Idiots that would come under the scanner.

"For Salman it is pretty much assured that Bodyguard total of over Rs. 148 crores would be comfortably beaten. However, he is challenging Rs. 202 crores that 3 Idiots had accumulated", comments a source, "With everything going in the film's favour, no competition in sight and no major release for three more weeks, getting on the top of the game would be the real deal for Salman."

Watch Promo of Ek Tha Tiger:

'Ek Tha Tiger' promises full on Entertainment

Wait is over for all Salman Khan fans as the star is coming to cinema halls Wednesday with 'Ek Tha Tiger' to celebrate Independence Day followed by Eid. High on action, the spy thriller has an interesting dose of romance too.

 The 2009 release 'Wanted' was a turning point in Salman's career. Ever since his success rate has been rising with hit after hit - 'Dabangg', 'Ready' and 'Bodyguard'.

Not only these entered the Rs.100 crore club, they were all high on action and 'Ek Tha Tiger' too belongs to the same genre.

Another high point of the film is that Salman will be seen with his ex-girlfriend Katrina Kaif after four years. Their last film together was 'Yuvvraaj'.

Many feel that the 'jodi' will attract more and more footfalls to theatres and critically acclaimed director Kabir Khan claims Katrina will show her acting potential in the movie.

The story is by Aditya Chopra and the film's screenplay has been co-written by Kabir Khan and well-known journalist-turned-lyricist-writer Neelesh Misra.

Before turning to feature film, Kabir Khan was known as a fearless documentary filmmaker and, Misra too proved his writing skills by penning book like '173 Hours in Captivity: The Hijacking of IC-814'.

When two such great minds get together, expectations are bound to be high from the film that revolves around Tiger, a rugged, handsome and mysterious bachelor, played by Salman, who is a Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) officer.

He is sent on a safe mission to Dublin, Ireland, to observe an Indian origin scientist who is suspected of sharing his research findings with the Pakistan defence establishment.

He attempts to meet the scientist but is not successful. He then tries to befriend the scientist's part-time home caretaker, Zoya (Katrina).

As Tiger begins to get closer to Zoya, he discovers his human side and for the first time in his life he falls in love.

What follows is a tumultuous journey that Tiger and Zoya embark upon, battling the dark world of intelligence that forbids its soldiers from falling in love.

Another good actor, Ranvir Shorey will be seen as Gopi, a RAW officer and Tiger's close friend.

The film's cost is said to be above Rs.50 crore and 'Ek Tha Tiger' marks Kabir Khan's third collaboration with Yash Raj Films after 'Kabul Express' in 2006 and 'New York' in 2009.

Kabir Khan describes the movie as complete package and adds: "There is not one USP of the film and I think that is the reason why people like the promo too. 'Ek Tha Tiger' is a complete package film. It has the whole package of Salman-Katrina, action and Yash Raj productions."

The film has been exclusively shot at five foreign locales like Dublin, Cuba and Istanbul.

The film is coming out on Independence Day and then Monday is Eid. Multiplex chains have decided to cash in on the festive atmosphere by hiking ticket price by 12 to 16 percent.

After all the buzz and hype around the movie, it would be interesting to see how audiences and critics receive the film and if it would also enter the Rs.100 crore club.

By IANS

I will only play larger than life roles: Salman Khan

New Delhi (PTI) Be it a zany cop in Dabangg or a sturdy bodyguard in Bodyguard, Salman Khan says he likes to portray heroic characters on-screen.

The 46-year-old actor says he likes it when his movies are larger than life and whether its romance, drama or action, he will continue depicting heroism.

"I want to portray heroism in every walk of life. It's not that I only want to do action films, if I get good comedy or romantic movies I will take them up but whatever I do has to be larger than life. I will do films which make people happy.

I want families to go and watch films in theatres like we did before," said Salman Khan, who was in the Capital recently to promote his upcoming film Ek Tha Tiger.

Directed by Kabir Khan, the movie also stars Katrina Kaif and will hit the theatres on August 15.

In his 24-year-old career, it is for the first time that he has teamed up with Yash Raj Films.

"I enjoyed shooting for the film, in fact I think I enjoyed so much that others weren't able to have fun. It took many days to shoot the film and Kabir was nice enough to let us enjoy and visit the places we wanted to see," he said.

Salman Khan plays a RAW agent in Ek Tha Tiger and he says he chose the film not because of the banner or star cast but because of the script.

"I liked the script. That is why I did the film. It is true that you get attracted to all other factors like money, star cast, banner, but it is very important that the script is good. That is the reason sometimes we compromise with the story but I think that should never happen because you won't be able to do justice to it," Salman Khan said.

Talking about working with Sooraj Barjatya after a long gap, the actor said, "He has narrated a script and I like it a lot. The tentative title is Bade Bhaiya. I like it but he is not sure if he wants to keep it."

Katrina Kaif visits Fatehpur Sikri shrine for EK THA TIGER success?

That Katrina Kaif has profound faith in 'sufi' saints and is a regular visitor to the shrines ('dargahs') is old news. One such shrine is that of Khwaja Saleem Chishti at Fatehpur Sikri (near the Taj City Agra), which Kat has visited quite a few times for the success of her films.

Ever since her visit to Fatehpur Sikri for her film 'Mere Brother Ki Dulhan' (the shooting of which took place extensively in and around Agra), Katrina has been a regular visitor to the shrine.

On Saturday, the audience's favourite heroine was at the 'dargah' of the revered saint to pay her obeisance. The actress arrived early morning at around 6 A.M and after performing a few rituals which involved some sort of subservient service ('Fakir Ki Chaakri'), like polishing the wood of the 'mazaar' etc. She then bowed down and prayed. After that she untied the 'mannat ka dhaga' (wish thread) that she had tied on an earlier and tied a new one, and after staying near the main shrine for around ten minutes she went back to her hotel.

Although it is not clear, nor did Katrina make any sort of comment as to whether she was there for her upcoming Eid release EK THA TIGER, but it is obvious!

By glamsham

Kabir Khan calls 'Ek Tha Tiger' complete package

New Delhi, Aug 12 (IANS) The much awaited Yash Raj Films' romantic action thriller "Ek Tha Tiger", which sees Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif coming together after four years, is a complete package and it has many USPs, says its director Kabir Khan.

"There is not one USP of the film and I think that is the reason why people are liking the promo too. 'Ek Tha Tiger' is a complete package film. It has the whole package of Salam-Katrina, action and Yash Raj productions," said Khan, who got critical acclaim for his movies "Kabul Express" and "New York", at a press conference here Sunday.

The director also was present and both of them came wearing 'Being tiger' T-shirts.

Talking about his favourite shot, the 46-year-old actor said since the film is so well made, he cannot pick one shot.

"It will take me at least a day to think and tell you my one favourite shot from the film. When the movie is not good, then it is easy to pick one best shot. But in a movie like 'Ek Tha Tiger', where every shot is so good, one cannot tell which is the best one," he said.

Releasing on Independence Day, Wednesday, "Ek Tha... is Salman-Katrina's first release after they parted ways. Their last film together was 2008 release "Yuvvraaj".

Salman appreciates Katrina's performance in the film and says she is very good in the film.

"Sonia in 'Maine Pyaar Kyun Kiya' was okay, Anushka in 'Yuvvraaj' was good but Zoya in 'Ek Tha Tiger' is too good," he said.

Katrina, who was also expected at the conference, did not turn up, as she was not well.

Both Salman and Kabir Khan apologised for her absence.

My films are beyond box-office records: Kabir Khan

New Delhi, Aug 12 (PTI) Known for his reality-inspired projects "New York" and "Kabul Express", filmmaker Kabir Khan says he makes films not to set or break any record at the Box Office. Kabir, who is back with Salman Khan starrer "Ek Tha Tiger" after a gap of three years, said he just wants his films to be remembered even after five years.

"There is a lot of anticipation with 'Ek Tha Tiger' - whether the film would enter the 100 crore club or set a new record of 200-crore box office earnings. "My films are beyond all these records. I just want my films to meet certain boundaries in terms of storyline and performance so that the audience remember my films after five years," said Kabir, who was in the Capital today to promote "Ek Tha Tiger" with Salman. The action thriller revolves around the adventures of a secret agent titled Tiger, who is out to foil the attempts of anti-national elements.

He also denied rumours that the central character of the film is inspired from real-life Indian spy late Ravindra Kaushik, insisting the film is not about India and Pakistan. "I read about him in the papers.

This is the first time I've heard of him. It's an interesting story. But it's not the story of my film. It's a fictitious film and there is no resemblance to intelligence agencies of India and Pakistan," he added. Produced by Yash Raj films, "Ek Tha Tiger" will hit theatres on August 15.

Salman Khan unhappy about Ek Tha Tiger's tickets price hike!

Bollywood Dabangg Actor Salman Khan's upcoming film Ek Tha Tiger has already created a lot of buzz. To cash in on the popularity of Ek Tha Tiger many multiplexes have decided to increase the prices of the tickets by 15-20 percent. But superstar Salman Khan in not very happy with the decision and says it is not the right thing to do.

Talking to a website, Salman Khan said, "As much as I think that it is not the right thing to do, I can't do anything about it. I know the difference is only about twenty or thirty odd rupees, and it will not make much of a difference. But given a choice, I would like to make the film more accessible to everyone."

However, Ek Tha Tiger director Kabir Khan says, "That is not something that I can dictate to the multiplexes. They have said it is a standard practice they follow. When they feel a film is much-anticipated and is running during a holiday period or a festive period, they tend to mark up the price."

Well, we don't think the price hike will stop Salman Khan's fans from watching Ek Tha Tiger!

EK THA TIGER music review: World music with a Bollywood tadka!

Music: Sohail Sen, Sajid-Wajid
Lyrics: Kausar Munir, Anvita Dutt, Neelesh Misra
Singers: Wajid, Sukhwinder Singh, Shreya Ghosal, Mohit Chauhan, KK, Palak Muchhal, Tarannum Malik
Rating: ***

Everything about Ek Tha Tiger is on a huge scale – produced by Yash Raj Films, starring two of Bollywood’s biggest stars, Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif in the lead, and exotic locations, larger than life stunts and visuals that spark lively interest.

The music has to be on the same level too and Sohail Sen has been given the responsibility to do just that. He uses a variety of sounds and instruments, aptly so, since the film has been shot in various international locations including Istanbul, Dublin and Havana. Guest composers Sajid-Wajid have been roped in to compose the song Mashallah.

The album kicks off with Julius Packim’s Tiger’s Theme – a racy, suspense inducing track that’s typical of thrillers. Interspersed with East European sounds, it’s full of electronic grooves and digital beats. It will surely be an effective background score as action unfolds on screen. Yet, it leaves you with a ‘been there heard that’ kind of feeling.

Guitars, violins, bongos and drums lead you into Banjaara. The marching effect (due to the foot tapping) invokes great rhythm. But it has a very obvious Dil hara (from Tashan) hangover, especially since both the songs have been sung by Sukhwinder Singh. The orchestration and the chorus add loads of festivity to the number. The lyrics are average. Sohail Sen blends a mainstream Bollywood composition with Irish influences to come up with Banjaara – The High Kings meet Anu Malik kind of track! Looks like this one’s for the Dublin portion of the movie.

Lapata uses Latin rhythms and Spanish acoustic guitars for the authentic Cuban touch, since it has been set in Havana. The song was recorded locally in Cuba and the orchestration is of good quality. The chorus does well and newcomer Palak Muchhal matches up to KK’s vocals. Still, it comes over as a very average song, thanks to the ordinary core composition.

For Saiyaara, Sen keeps it simple and uses more traditional instruments like santoor and drums, keyboards and guitar. Mohit Chauhan brings loads of passion to the song. Tarannum Malik’s voice is refreshing and her low-key notes complement the high-pitched singing by Chauhan. It’s a song that you’ll start humming without even realising it, whether you like it or not. Lyricist Kausar Munir’s writing in this one is poetic. The use of the word Saiyaara – which means ‘lonely planet’ – has been done beautifully to portray the distance between the two lovers.

Mashallah is a straight lift from an Arabic wedding song. So no points to Sajid-Wajid for creating the best tune on this soundtrack! It’s a groovy and hummable number with Arabic lyrics by Kausar Munir. Wajid is decent, but Shreya Ghosal sings beautifully. She uses a husky tone and sounds completely in sync with the middle-eastern melody. Benny Dayal sings the Arabic portions with ease.

The zingy chorus intercepts the music. Use of Middle Eastern instruments like the hand-tapped tambourine, the djembe and the darbuka transports you to Arabic lands. The violin and finger cymbals add a new dimension. Mashallah is a winner!

The remixes of Lapata, Mashallah and Banjaara are nothing special and the song writing could have definitely been better. Don’t expect a Dabangg or a Bodyguard; the music of Ek Tha Tiger is meek in comparison. There is no item number and no playing to the gallery. Sen makes a good musical effort to create interesting sounds that set the backdrop for this thriller, and Salman Khan’s attitude can and will definitely make it work.