The Talented Mr. Anglerfish!

The carnivorous Anglerfish is often referred to as the most ugly animal on the planet. This ferocious fish is capable of attacking and eating a prey twice its size! The Anglerfish lives a lonely existence at the bottom of the Atlantic ocean.

The picture depicts a female Anglerfish.
Do you notice the dorsal spine portruding above the mouth? Strange isn't it? The skin of the Anglerfish emits a blue light that is used to attract its prey.

There are close to 170 species of Anglerfish and these are much sought after across the world. The Japanese are very fond of the Anglerfish and its taste is very similar to that of a lobster's. Hungry anyone?

Review: The Hoax

'The Hoax' is solid proof of Richard Gere's acting prowess. Ably supported by Alfred Molina, Gere does a wonderful job as writer Clifford Irving. This movie is a tale of conceit intertwined with humor and emotion. Clifford manages to convince a major publishing house that he is writing an autobiography for the recluse Howard Hughes. He gets a contract and also is paid a handsome advance.
What follows is a rollercoaster ride as doubts arise about Irving's claims. How Clifford Irving finally manages to get his book published forms the gist of the story.

Look out for the following performances:
i. Alfred Molina as Dick Suskind, Irving's best friend.
ii. Marcia Harden as Edith, Irving's wife.
iii. Hope Davis as Andrea Tate, Irving's contact in the publishing house.
iv. Stanley Tucci as the publishing honcho.

This movie is already out on DVD and immensely enjoyable. A must-see!

Where's my Jackie Shroff gone?

Jackie Shroff has always been my greatest influence. While growing up as a gawky teenager in Dubai, I practically gorged on his movies for most of my adolescence. Jaggu Dada had a dream debut with Subhash Ghai's 'Hero' and was an instant hit with the audiences. He then went on to star in hit movies that include 'Karma', 'Andhar Baahar', 'Kaash', 'Yudh', 'Parinda', 'Ram Lakhan', 'Tridev', '1942: A Love Story', 'Rangeela', 'Khalnayak' and 'Agnisakshi'.

In the late-nineties, Jackie started accepting all offers that came his way. He never chose to verify the credibility of scripts and ended up in horrible movies with bit roles. Currently, Jackie's star power has diminished completely and he has lost favor with most prominent directors, including Subhash Ghai.

His transition from saleable star to 'supporting actor' status has been swift and heartbreaking. Didn't Jackie ever think about his fans when he took roles in disastrous movies? Can we expect him to get strong and meaty roles in the future?

As for me, I have cherished memories of Jaggu that will keep me going. Jackie, wish you all the best!

Hemant Karkare, India salutes you!

A lot has been said about the cold-blooded murder of Mr. Hemant Karkare, the ATS Chief. I only wish that the Indian Govt. is more strict and vigilant in matters of terrorism. India witnesses several attacks by coward terrorists each year but nothing is done to stop such mindless bloodshed.

The US has miraculously warded off attacks on its soil after 9/11 and probably the Indian politicos can learn a thing or two on how they handled such situations.

India salutes the bravery of Karkare, Salaskar and Kamte. You will always be etched in our minds.

The Indian public also condemns the way the Govt. functions and also the buffonery that Mr. Shivraj Patil has showcased in times of distress and terrorism.