#DDLJ cast

[jgroffdaily]

From a new interview with Roshan Sethi and Karan Soni:

Interviewer: Jonathan Groff is a perfect casting here, and I think a part of that is that his fans have probably dreamed of seeing this man in a rom-com. It’s like a fan-fiction come to life in that way. Did that aspect play into your decision to cast him, that you’d be satisfying a horde of fans of Mindhunter and Spring Awakening and a bunch of other stuff?

Roshan: We thought of Jonathan right away, not because of Mindhunter, which we’re too gay to have been big fans of, but he is an icon in the gay community. He came out at a time when it was very difficult to come out as a public figure. He has proceeded since then so openly, with such love and clearness of who he is, and those are the qualities we were looking for in that character.

[ihave3frigs]

did you have the opportunity to see come fall in love / the ddlj musical? do you have any Specific Thoughts?

call me crazy for NEVER checking my inbox but haha HERE WE ARE A YEAR LATER I JUST SAW THIS BUT I WILL NEVER PASS UP AN OPPORTUNITY TO TALK ABOUT COME FALL IN LOVE, NO ONE KNOWS ABOUT IT AND ITS A CRIME BC I SWEAR YALL WILL SOON

I somehow got lucky enough to see it twice and I absolutely loved it!! I'm coming from the background of not having seen ddlj before the musical, which I liked since I didn't have any expectations for the story and I thought it was really well done. Also, for context, I'm white so I'm coming from an outsider's perspective on that side too. Now having seen the movie (several times) I can say that I think they did a pretty good job of staying faithful to the heart of the story while updating it for a new audience (but nostalgia is hard to beat, and they definitely fell victim to changing random things that lovers of the original may not like). I loved the show so much that not only did I go back and see it AGAIN but it inspired me to watch ddlj, fall in love with it, and in turn introduced me to a lot more films that i wouldn't have thought to see otherwise.

Also: the songs were SO GOOD. They still get stuck in my head a year later. Party and Spend Daddy's Money is my JAM. I CRIED when I realized how long it would be before a cast album.

And ofc I HAVE to talk about the sets/props. It was absolutely beautiful and such good design. I used to stage manage, and the amount of props that would come on and off stage for five seconds in a single song, NEVER TO BE SEEN AGAIN, gave me a heart attack. Where were they keeping that boat? The BEAR?? THE VESPAS???? I was DAZZLED.

And finally I have to talk about the cast because they frickin KILLED IT. Shoba obviously was amazing, and I think the perfect person to embody this new version of Simran (a bit more nerd-working-on-her-thesis-about-love-at-harvard). And this show also introduced me to Austin Colby (he's in Great Gatsby rn actually!) who obviously had big shoes to fill and was a controversial choice. But five seconds into his performance I can say with all honesty that he was an incredible Rog (not Raj this time) and instantly became one of my favorite performers. Austin perfectly captured Rog's charisma, humor, and heart. And you could see that he put EVERYTHING into it. The ensemble was just as energetic, and I would be remiss not to highlight Jack Sippel, whose hotel sequence (where he changed costumes behind a desk in rapid succession, embodying a completely new and hilarious character every time) got the whole audience roaring with laughter.

That was a lot longer than intended but...I loved this show?!? And no one else is talking about it so...

The Old Globe is working on transferring to New York, but they haven't been able to find a theater yet. I have my suspicions that Chopra's reimagining of Raj/Rog as white may have doomed them from the beginning, but I really hope not. I just hope everyone gives this show, and Chopra's reimagined story, a chance because I truly think it could be a fan favorite. The next legally blonde perhaps??

[raplinesmoon]

bollywoodtan sonyeondan: bts in 2010s rom-coms

Listen, I’ve had a filmy weekend, okay? First my friends got engaged and threw a party, then my other friend and I had a sleepover and binged The Romantics, and on top of that, I think I’ve watched five other different Bollywood movies this weekend and I need to channel this energy somehow so please enjoy my explanations for casting BTS in these 2010s Bollywood rom-coms which I hope one day me (or anyone else) can turn into fics thank you very much

Ok, let’s begin:

Kim Namjoon - Baar Baar Dekho

Listen, I know this movie was critically panned? Do I fucking care? No. I love this movie, I would go to war for this movie because Sidharth and Katrina induce massive amounts of bi panic within me. I love Jai and Diya, I love their love, I love the time travel, I love Kala Chashma. So that’s why I’m choosing none other than Bangtan’s resident intellectual Mr. Namjoon to fill those shoes, okay? Namjoon’s expressed his own profound thoughts about marriage, just like Mr. Jai, and him as a genius mathematician who gets caught in a time loop. Drooling

Kim Seokjin - Hasee Toh Phasee

Again, I would d word for this movie bc it’s just so??!!! My crush on Sidharth Malhotra non-withstanding, this movie is chaotic and beautiful in the best way. It doesn’t try to be flashy or suave, and instead embraces its inner dork. Who does that remind you of, huh? Mr. Kim Seokjin, that’s fuckin who. Nikhil and Meeta just give major OTP vibes, him being a through and through himbo and her being a neurodivergent genius who he can’t help simping over!! Give me Seokjin and OC causing major chaos I beg! And put Zehnaseeb on in the background while you’re at it!

Min Yoongi - Khoobsurat

Am I biased bc I’m Pakistani? Am I biased bc it’s Fawad? Maybe, maybe not! But to quote Lizzie McGuire, this is what dreams are made of!! An off-beat physiotherapist meets a tsundere prince?? And he gradually warms up to her while they get into their own royal shenanigans? You can’t tell me this role wasn’t written for Yoongi, and long haired Yoongi specifically. The grumpy x sunshine trope is super strong with this one, and I love the brightness that Milli brings to the entire family, not just the prince. The Disney movie of everyone’s dreams <3

Jung Hoseok - Mere Brother Ki Dulhan

Listen, this movie doesn’t get enough credit for just being fun the entire way through!! The comedy is top-tier and the characters are just so likeable and wholesome!! And just this big, amazing hare-brained matchmaking effort that is so Bollywood!! And Imran Khan’s Kush being in love with Katrina’s Dimple, who is definitely bisexual (Dhunki, anyone?!). It’s giving King Hobi vibes, not only because he would go out of his way to do anything for someone he loved, but also because Choomantar is definitely siblings with Daydream and I need to see him bust it down to Do Dhaari Talwar thank you for coming to my TED Talk

Park Jimin - Aisha

Let’s all agree that Gal Mitthi Mitthi Bol is a banger, and then let’s all swoon over Jimin in this adaptation which is based on Emma!! I literally can’t decide if I want Jimin in Aisha or Arjun’s role, but it’d be so fun either way!! I kinda like the idea of him trying to set up all his guy friends and them just being such a fun group who all have their own individual love stories sighhhh. And OC being Arjun who’s all no nonsense and the grounding presence in Jimin/Aisha’s life!! Also the style in this movie was inspired by Clueless, and our mans models for Dior so that’s enough for me to want to make it happen

Kim Taehyung - I Hate Luv Storys

Fun fact - I once watched this movie instead of studying for an exam that was happening at the end of the weekend and had so much fun I passed out on my friend’s couch until 3pm the next day!! This is another one of those nostalgic movies that pays homage to all the fun romantic Bollywood tropes!! And all the DDLJ references made me totally think Taehyung! Except he’s not Jay, he’s Simran, and OC will be Jay, and Taehyung has to convince her to believe in romance!! I think that’s a fitting task for the man I consider to be the most romantic member of Bangtan (he’s SRK’s Korean incarnation imo)

Jeon Jungkook - Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania

If there’s one himbo I stan, it’s Humpty Sharma. If there’s another himbo I stan, it’s Jungkook. I literally have a severe emotional attachment to this movie and could probably quote most of the lines to you. What I love about this is how Humpty literally shatters all the stereotypes about toxic masculinity - he cries, he’s vulnerable, he believes in love. It just screams bby boi Jungkook vibes. Also pls him doing the most to get Kavya her wedding lehenga - that’s some of the cutest shit Bollywood has pulled in a while and I’m 10000% here for it (pls bring in Jimin and Tae as Shonty and Poplu too)

Anyways, thanks for listening to me ramble!! If anyone is interested, I’d love to do more of these, like maybe 2000s rom-coms or action movies!! I’m here for any discourse you guys have too, let’s be film nerds together 💜

[elvain]

ddlj changed the industry by casting a 26 year old as a romantic lead and realizing they didnt have to keep casting young af actors in these roles but now these people are 60 and still playing the same roles. bollywood let people age with grace challenge

[synaanand]

Unveiling the No. 1 Hindi Romantic Movie 2024 - A Must-Watch

Hindi romantic movies have been the heartbeat of the Indian film industry, casting an enchanting spell on audiences worldwide. But what makes a Hindi romantic movie rise above the rest? Which film, in its unending pursuit of unrequited love, stands as the quintessential example of this genre’s allure? In this detailed exploration of Indian cinema's most cherished category, we not only uncover the epitome of Hindi romantic cinema but also analyze its historical significance, current trends, and future projections.

The Enduring Charm of Hindi Romantic Movies

Bollywood romances aren't just cinematic; they're cultural phenomena steeped in the fabric of Indian society. These tales of love are an intrinsic part of life, music, and celebrations in the subcontinent. They are escapades into a world where love conquers all, taking viewers through an emotional rollercoaster filled with passion, heartbreak, and ultimately, heartwarming conclusions.

A Love Story Across Generations

From the classics of yesteryears featuring the likes of Raj Kapoor and Nargis to the contemporary portrayals by actors like Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone, Hindi romantic cinema has evolved through time. Each era has given birth to love stories that reflect the social dynamics, cultural ethos, and zeitgeist of the age, ensuring that the genre remains a kaleidoscope of Indian life and values. Pre Wedding Honeymoon is well craft romantic web series by Sensationz media and arts production.

A Filmography of Love

Which Hindi romantic movie speaks to your heart the most? Is it the heartbreaking 'Mughal-e-Azam', the eternal 'DDLJ', or the bittersweet 'Aashiqui'? Our top 8 must-watch list captures the full spectrum of love from the reels of Bollywood. Here, storyline intricacies, musical charm, and memorable performances have collectively propelled these films into a league of their own, and the reasons for their inclusion will be thoroughly dissected.

Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013): A coming-of-age drama that traces the journey of four friends as they navigate life, love, and self-discovery.

Ram Leela (2013): A modern-day retelling of Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet' set in the backdrop of Gujarat, showcasing a fiery romance amidst familial conflicts.

Manmarziyaan (2018): A love triangle between a free-spirited girl, her responsible fiancé, and the unpredictable man she falls for.

Pre Wedding Honeymoon (2024): A web series that explores a couple's journey before tying the knot, filled with laughter, love, and lessons.

Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016): A complex tale of unrequited love, friendship, and self-discovery, showcasing the fine lines between passion and obsession.

Aashiqui 2 (2013): A musical journey of two struggling musicians who fall in love but face challenges as they pursue their dreams.**

Kabir Singh (2019): An intense and controversial love story that follows a self-destructive man's obsession with the girl he loves.

Dum Laga Ke Haisha (2015) – A heartwarming tale of an arranged marriage between a mismatched couple and their journey towards understanding, acceptance, and love.

Trends and The Future of Hindi Romantic Cinema

As the world changes, so do our expressions of love, and Hindi romantic movies are no exception. From unconventional story arcs to diverse casting choices, the genre is evolving with the times. With streaming platforms providing an  even larger reach, we can expect to see more experimentation and innovation in the future. The rise of independent filmmakers is also a promising sign for unique and authentic stories to be told.

Conclusion

Hindi romantic movies have stood the test of time, capturing our hearts with their poignant and relatable tales. From iconic classics to modern-day gems, this genre will continue to enchant

Watch Pre Wedding Honeymoon web series Online On MX Player for free, Because in the world of Hindi romantic movies, every film is a love letter waiting to be unfolded.

[daughterofruins]

Movie recommendations

Umm hi idk what you've watched or not but here it is

Hollywood:-

1. 10 THINGS I HATE ABOUT YOU

This movie is so good and just..it's perfect, it shows the whole enemies to lovers thing so well and i just love it so much

2. YOU'VE GOT MAIL.

Just.the best movie ever. Watch it. Trust me you won't regret it.

3.PRETTY WOMAN

Again, epic classic. Deserves every ounce of fame it has received because damn! The whole 'i wasn't supposed to fall in love with you' troupe serves so well!

4. PRINCESS DIARIES both but the second one specifically because Anne Slay Queen Hathaway ate and left no crumbs

5. FOOLS RUSH IN

GOD THIS MOVIE HAS SO MANY REASONS FIRST MATTHEW PERRY MAN HE JUST NAILS IT AND C'MON DUDE IT HAS SALMA HAYEK WHAT MORE DO YOU NEED

but seriously it serves the whole i love you and want you but I'm strong enough to survive on my own trope so well aaah God I love it!

Okay now, BOLLYWOOD:-

This list could go on, but I'll just give you my comfort ones

1. MOHABBATEIN

Need I say more? SRK as Raj Aryan in oversized blazers and warm sweaters is a treat to the eye I don't take constructive criticism okay and plus the students arw their romances the "darwaza tod do" scene the mean evil BigB scene Godd perfection!

2. KABHI KHUSHI KABHI GAM

Please srk kajol rocked this movie especially after ddlj it was perfect. Kajol served the "talks too much" girl like she was meant for it and the banter the dialogues the songs God perfect. I especially love the "paise ke ameer dil ke gareeb kabhi na jaayein Eshwar ke karerb" part so much. Plus Kareena and Hritik has such amazing chemistry

and the dadi dies so they all live happily ever after

3. DILWALE DULHANIYA LE JAYENGE

THIS MOVIE IS THE IN LOVE MOVIE. IT ACTUALLY SERVES THE "COME FALL IN LOVE" IT HAS WRITTEN ON IT'S POSTERS I KNOW WHAT IT FEELS LIKE TO CONSTANTLY WANT PARENTAL APPROVAL AND ALWAYS CHANGE JUST TO MAKE SURE MY PARENTS ARE HAPPY AND ITS SO FREAKING GOOD ITS SO NICE IT'S COMFORT ITS-

4. JAB WE MET

Comfort movie 2.0

Waise toh sab mujhe is movie ki Geet bulatein hain lekin baat ye hai ki mujhe Aditya abhi tak nahi mila aur mera Aditya na, I'm sure, marr raha hoga kahin kyunki use mai nahi mili lekin kismat ki baat hai-

Overall, jao yeh movie dekho. ABHI.

5. Okay this one's pretty new but DILWALE

Seeing srk kajol share screen after so long was just pure bliss and srk as a don? Dude who did this casting it's heaven personified and kajol as evil mean woman? And the 5 minute date? Bhai mujhe le chalo paanch minute ke date pe mai saath janam peecha na chodun (iykyk)

Thats it. I have loads more for bollywood tho, so drop in and ask anytime. Also, tell me your reviews about them. Love ya anon!

[cinemapremi]

Dunki Teaser: Shah Rukh Khan's Epic Comeback with Sonu Nigam! Must-See Bollywood Magic Revealed!

Shah Rukh Khan, the beloved Bollywood superstar, has recently released the teaser for his upcoming movie, 'Dunki.' This teaser has created quite a buzz among his fans, and it's not just because of SRK's charm. Here's an in-depth look at the teaser, the return of Sonu Nigam, and the anticipation surrounding 'Dunki.' Shah Rukh Khan Birthday A Midnight Wish Granted to Fans

Sonu Nigam's Return and Nostalgia

One of the most exciting aspects of the 'Dunki' teaser is the return of Sonu Nigam as the playback singer for Shah Rukh Khan. Fans have fond memories of the magical music duo from the '90s, and this collaboration has rekindled that nostalgia. Many fans expressed their joy, with one enthusiast stating, "The only thing missing in SRK's movie was Sonu Nigam's voice. The legendary duo is back." It's clear that this reunion is a cause for celebration for fans of both artists. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LOzucm1jbzs

Shah Rukh Khan's Star Power

Shah Rukh Khan's magnetic appeal is undeniable. He has consistently charmed audiences with his performances over the years. Even in 'Dunki,' his presence is a significant draw for moviegoers. As one fan aptly put it, "You can ignore Bollywood, but you can't ignore Shah Rukh Khan." This reaffirms his status as one of the most iconic actors in the industry.

Rajkumar Hirani's Influence

Another crucial element of 'Dunki' is the director, Rajkumar Hirani. Known for delivering heart-touching films, Hirani has combined glimpses of his iconic works like 'Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham,' 'Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi,' 'Dilwale,' and 'DDLJ' in 'Dunki.' Fans can expect the same unique and soul-stirring music that has become synonymous with his movies. Rajkumar Hirani's involvement only adds to the excitement surrounding the film.

A Shift in Theme

What makes 'Dunki' even more intriguing is its departure from the action-oriented themes of SRK's recent films. The teaser promises a refreshing cinematic experience that breaks away from the norm. As one fan pointed out, "This looks so fun and refreshingly different. Plus, hearing Sonu Nigam's voice gave me chills!" This shift in theme suggests that 'Dunki' will be a unique addition to SRK's filmography.

'Dunki Drop 1' Teaser and Cast

The title of the teaser, "Dunki Drop 1," coincides with Shah Rukh Khan's 58th birthday, which falls on November 2. The teaser also features Taapsee Pannu, Vicky Kaushal, and Boman Irani, making it a star-studded affair. Taapsee Pannu's first collaboration with Hirani and Vicky Kaushal, who previously worked in Hirani's 'Sanju,' add to the film's appeal. Additionally, the teaser hints at a second installment, heightening the anticipation. Sam Bahadur Vicky Kaushal Unveils Intriguing Poster Ahead of Trailer Release

Audience Reactions to the Teaser

After the teaser's release, fans flocked to express their reactions. Some declared it as the "Greatest film ever," while others eagerly await its release. The teaser's cinematic quality has already won the hearts of many, promising an unforgettable experience for the audience. https://x.com/iSoldier___/status/1719962370251116704?s=20

Teaser Details

The 'Dunki' teaser opens with a group of individuals crossing a desert, setting the tone for an exciting adventure. A sharpshooter takes aim at their backs, creating a sense of suspense. As the teaser unfolds, it delves into the aspirations of a group of friends who seek to work and settle in London, featuring Shah Rukh Khan, Vicky Kaushal, Taapsee Pannu, and others. This teaser has successfully piqued the interest of fans, leaving them eager for more.

Release Date

'Dunki' is set to hit theaters in India on December 22. With the teaser creating so much buzz, the release date can't come soon enough for fans eager to witness this enchanting cinematic journey. In conclusion, 'Dunki' is not just a movie; it's a much-anticipated event that brings together the magic of Shah Rukh Khan, the musical charm of Sonu Nigam, and the directorial genius of Rajkumar Hirani. It promises to be a refreshing departure from the routine and is set to make waves in the Bollywood industry. Don't miss out on the excitement—'Dunki' is a must-watch. FAQs : When will 'Dunki' be released? 'Dunki' is scheduled to hit theaters in India on December 22. Who is the director of 'Dunki'? 'Dunki' is directed by Rajkumar Hirani, known for his heart-touching films. What makes 'Dunki' different from Shah Rukh Khan's recent movies? 'Dunki' marks a departure from the action-oriented themes of SRK's recent films, offering a refreshingly different cinematic experience. Why is the return of Sonu Nigam significant in 'Dunki'? Sonu Nigam's return as a playback singer for SRK evokes nostalgia for the magical music duo from the '90s. Who are the notable cast members in 'Dunki'? The film features Shah Rukh Khan, Taapsee Pannu, Vicky Kaushal, and Boman Irani, making it a star-studded affair. Also checkout: Read the full article

[toiletpotato]

BEND IT LIKE BECKHAM THE MUSICAL!

You'll find more South Asian diaspora theatre in the UK than the US due to the larger diaspora presence there. There is Bombay Dreams, as some have mentioned, but Farah Khan (who worked on it), didn't feel it was very representative. Shoba Narayan has been doing a lot of work for South Asians in American musical theatre- she was the first South Asian Jasmine in Broadway's Aladdin (previously Jasmine had been played mostly by Southeast Asian/or other Asian actresses, mostly). She's also Simran in the stage adaptation of DDLJ (which I have thoughts on- the existence of that musical, not her casting). There are some Bollywood adaptations but they aren't as accessible today unless you can find the book.

For a musical that centers on a character from the South Asian diaspora, worked on by a South Asian creative (Gurinder Chadha, the director of the original movie), Bend it Like Beckham the Musical is your best bet. (They also used soccer balls on stage! And one of the guys from Stranger Things played the soccer coach- pretty cool!)

Since there’s been a lot of discourse about Miss Saigon lately, I was wondering if anyone here knows any good musicals that center on/feature characters from the South Asian community. The only shows I can think of are Aladdin — which is kind of a stretch and contingent upon casting — and Bollywood adaptations, which I don’t care for much. The Life of Pi seems to be the only show out there, but that’s a play. Anyone know something I don’t?

I will leave this out to see if anyone has an answer!

[korusalka]

The original DDLJ was supposed to happen with a very white Tom Cruise starring. Thankfully, that didn't happen. The Broadway people were supposed to take this as a divine sign from above that a white Raj is the worst way to update the original

[serotaejin]

2, 4, 9 and 22 for the desi army ask 🌶

hello 💕💕💕 thank you for the ask !!!

2. pick a dessert to share with BTS

definitely mishti doi! that's my tag for jungkook bc he does love milk based stuff & i just know that they all would love mishti doi <3

4. who would win in a pani puri/fuchka eating contest, you or your bias?

i'm gonna say me even though my spice tolerance is pretty shit for a desi person. i say me, cause i'm used to eating pani puri and they wouldn't be able to make it past 2, just from sheer shock of spicy it is fkjf

oh i wouldn't even think of subjecting tae to this fkjf

9. they’ve decided to remake dilwale dulhania le jayenge (it was unavoidable) - which member do you want to see casted as Rahul?

okay so i've never watched DDLJ nfj please i refuse to watch the "iconic" bollywood movies bc I did watch k3g in 2018 for the first time & got v angry at how anti-feminist it is. I should have known better than to expect ???? but fnjf I didn't expect it to be THAT bad but anyways!

i did read the summary tho and who better than your resident fanfic jungkook to play a wildly romantic bad boy. raj ?? would definitely be written as an e-boy in the remake lmaooo

22. what is the first word or phrase you would share with BTS in your language?

i'd probably tell them about my tags for them & the reason why i picked each word ! <3

[newsmoviesportfolio]

Shahrukh Khan and Salman Khan to play Aamir Khan’s Lala Singh Chadha, their iconic characters Raj and Prem: Bollywood News – Bollywood Hungama In 2019, the year of Bollywood's big crossovers is going on. It was earlier reported that Shah Rukh Khan shot for Aamir Khan's cameo…

[newzzhub]

DDLJ turns 25: What if Nysa elopes with Aryan Khan? Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol react in this throwback video Image Source : INSTAGRAM/TEAMSRKNEPAL Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jaayenge turns 25 Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol starrer Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge has turned 25 today.

[mirambles]

Didn’t like romcoms ever - watched a handful of movies, never read Mills & Boons. Still haven’t. What were my handful favourites then?

Pride and Prejudice - Darcy and Elizabeth. I enjoy period novels, dramas and romance. This was the perfect combination. It ruined me cause nothing ever came close to this book, series and this pair. Two strong willed , opinionated personalities clashed and how! Read the book as a 11 year old and that was the romance I desired. Mr Darcy was flawed and perfect, brooding and charming, intense and loving. He was every woman’s desire and dream come true. Elizabeth was equally matched - intelligent, sharp witted, confident , loyal and loving. A match made in heaven that’s what it was. It was the perfect push you far away but will draw you back in romance. Angst and desire. And then there was Jennifer Ehle and Colin Firth - they exceeded my expectations of how I had imagined Elizabeth and Darcy to be. Colin Firth made sure Darcy would rule my heart for decades. Still does!

North and South : Thornton and Margaret. A tale told amidst the class divide and industrial changes that Britain underwent. A soft, subtle , slow burn romance. That kiss between Armitage and Denny-Ashe on the platform is one of most swoon worthy kisses ever in any drama series or movie! The book equally good to read.

You Have Got Mail - Tom Hank and Meg Ryan. Neither are drop dead gorgeous people - but both being an endearing charm to the screen and created magic twice - Sleepless in Seattle and then You Have Got Mail. I never really got drawn by the former , but the latter has my heart. The charm of 90s online chats, the mysterious stranger who could be the love of your life , the guy next door. It was so formulaic that you predicted exactly how the story would go and yet these two made you fall in love with it.

When Harry Met Sally - My favourite romantic trope. Friends turned lovers. The bickering, the banter, the I know you better than anyone else. And yet again Meg Ryan - Flawless

Notting Hill - Julia Roberts’ wide smile and Hugh Grant looking dreamy as ever. When i moved to London , I wanted to visit that cute little bookstore where the romance began! The soundtrack of the movie and gorgeous London setting.

Love Actually : Alan Rickman, Hugh Grant, Colin Firth, Emma Thompson, Keira Knightley - and Christmas. I was sold - I watch this movie as a Christmas ritual every year. The 6 stories interlinked and I enjoy it even today - cliched maybe but the cast nailed it!

Me Before You - Has there been a more gut wrenching and yet so wonderfully told positive love story? Clarke and Will were a match made in heaven - but were never meant to be. And yet in the short time they spent together they gave each other a whole new world and life! ‘Just live well….just live’ I go back to the last scene a million times - it’s so important to count our blessings and live well - because we only get to do so once!

Bollywood romance never worked for me - I loved a lot of movies , hell I grew up on them but none really made me go weak in my knees. We girls then teenagers all wanted to go on a Europe trip after watching DDLJ, but we didn’t really want to meet a Rahul on the trip. The actors and actresses were lovely to watch, the stories were heartfelt but they did not make my heart flutter.

And post the ‘00s - even Hollywood romance turned cliched, the scripts were same old, the chemistry was alright. Good one time watch and then to be forgotten.

And then last year before pandemic hit I was intrigued by a trailer on Netflix - Army romance is my weak point. Hyun Bin looked stunningly handsome in the trailer and it intrigued me , so I started watching CLOY on my flight to USA and fell in love with Yoon SeRi and Captain Ri! I binged the entire series on my round trip and I couldn’t believe I had enjoyed a pure romcom! Great storytelling, terrific characterisations, picture perfect men - what world is this and how had I not discovered it for so long!

So 18 months down the line having watched over 70+ Kdramas - here I’m finally penning down my thoughts. If you enjoy my posts - drop in and say hi!

[poorlittleyaoyao]

Xiyao Hindi mix annotations

Explanations for all the songs on the Xiyao portion of the massive Hindi fanmix, including links to full translations as well as videos of the songs themselves!

These six songs were chosen with more deliberation than the others on the playlist, so I uh, may have gotten a little carried away in providing film context. Enjoy! Sorry in advance for ruining your day!

--

1.) “Dil Se Re” (from Dil Se)

If there's a heart, there will be pain If there's pain, there will be a heart The seasons keep on passing by From the heart, from the heart The heart is after all a heart It's a sweet problem My beloved

As I mentioned on the notes for the Nieyao part of the mix, Dil Se is a beautiful, complicated movie whose songs function as windows into how one character perceives another--and that perception never, ever matches reality. “Dil Se Re” and “Satrangi Re” both reflect how Amar (who sees himself as a romantic hero) sees Meghna (who is an enigma to both Amar and the viewer for the first half of the film). While “Satrangi Re” casts Meghna as a seductress, “Dil Se Re” casts her as a pastel-clad ingenue ready to run into Amar’s arms. The real Meghna is neither of these things; we eventually learn that Meghna has been radicalized by her past trauma and brought into a terrorist organization, and is using Amar’s obsession with her to orchestrate an attack.

If you just listen to “Dil Se Re,” it sounds very sweet! The visuals, however, are all about destruction; Amar and (his idealized innocent version of) Meghna gaze at each other through barbed wire and embrace as shells explode around them. In the moment I chose for the artwork, they lie together in a grave as falling leaves bury them--foreshadowing their eventual deaths together. While LXC and JGY’s relationship is certainly more mutual than Amar and Meghna’s (if you were feeling bad for Amar, don’t--he constantly violates Meghna’s boundaries in every sense), both feature a man who has no idea what’s going on in his beloved’s head, and both end in destruction.

2.) “Mehndi Laga Ki Rakhna” (from Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge)

Keep looking for me on the road Keep your doors open To take you away, fair one Your beloved is coming Now don't say anything else Now don't do anything else Keep the matters of the heart Enclosed in your heart

Now for something more cheerful: the hideout song! This is the song that started this whole project, because this stanza in particular reads like Meng Yao reassuring Lan Xichen while he’s on the run.

DDLJ is one of those movies that EVERYONE has seen. Simran and Raj fall in love during a trip to Switzerland... but Simran’s extra-conservative father has already arranged a marriage for her, and disapproves of Raj as a concept so hard that he relocates their family from the UK back to India. Raj follows Simran to India, resolved to win her father’s approval so they can be together with her family’s blessing. During this song, Simran and Raj covertly flirt with and reassure each other even as they keep their distance to avoid detection by Simran’s father. For the art, I wanted to maintain the look of the veil that Simran wears, which is why LXC looks like he’s fresh out of Rivendell.

3.) “In Lamhon Ki Daaman Mein” (from Jodhaa Akbar)

What has time done? It has completely changed everything I've attained you You've attained me We have met in such a way Just like two tunes are playing softly No one is high or low In these tunes

Jodhaa-Akbar is a historical epic about the Mughal emperor Akbar the Great and his Rajput wife Jodhaa going from political marriage to friends to lovers in an excruciating slow burn. While Wangxian got the cute pining song, Xiyao get the song where Jodhaa and Akbar finally consummate their marriage after several months of in-universe time and three hours of movie runtime. I think of this scene every time the debate about Sex In Movies(TM) flares up, because while both characters are fully clothed and there’s no groping or even kissing on the lips, it is emotion-centered, sensual, and thus fully unambiguous about what is happening.

Though this song is sweetly romantic in lyrics, context, and usually in sound, the bridge is in this intense minor key that, as @rated-r-for-fear​ put it, “sounds like a THREAT.” GENTLE YET OMINOUS: THE ENTIRE XIYAO VIBE.

4.) “Mere Haath Mein” (from Fanaa)

When I have your hands in mine I have all of paradise with me This world is nothing when you're close I want to get destroyed in your love

If I had a nickel for every song on this mix from a movie where secondary lead is secretly a terrorist, I’d have two nickels, but it’s weird that it happened twice!

In Fanaa (which translates to DESTRUCTION, in case you had any doubts about where this was going), a Kashmiri woman named Zooni travels to Delhi and has a whirlwind romance with rakish tour guide Rehan, until he dies tragically in a terrorist attack... except not really, because Rehan is HIMSELF the terrorist and faked his death. Years later, he becomes wounded during a mission and collapses at Zooni’s house in the mountains. Some sickfic and h/c tropes ensue, and Zooni and Rehan rekindle their old romance. Unfortunately, Rehan is in fact still a terrorist who shows himself capable of murdering Zooni’s loved ones, which, you know, puts a damper on things. Zooni is forced to kill Rehan and cradles him in her arms as he dies.

This song is half stylized and imaginary, half montage of what the leads are actually up to. The stylized half has some lovely dreamy visuals... but in the IRL half, we see that Rehan lives in fear of Zooni inevitably finding out about his past (and present), and by turns bursts into tears or disengages from her. In the moment I borrowed to draw, Rehan pulls Zooni’s hand away as she reaches for his face--gently, but still, the distance is there. The tragedy of Xiyao for me lies not in its ending, but in how it must have deteriorated during those 16 years as JGY goes on his whole Macbeth trajectory and LXC either doesn’t notice or won’t notice.

5.) “Maar Dala” (from Devdas)

I hid every sorrow I faced all the problems smilingly I even hugged the thorns And was hurt by the flowers My happiness has killed me

There’s a Devdas song on the Wangxian mix (from Paro’s POV) and one from Dev.D on the Nieyao one (from Dev’s POV), so now it’s Chandramukhi’s turn! After torpedoing his relationship with his childhood sweetheart Paro, rich fuckboy Devdas takes up drinking and visits a brothel, where he meets a courtesan named Chandramukhi. While Chandramukhi inexplicably falls for Devdas, she’s also Done with his one-man pity party and calls him out on it. This song is partly Chandramukhi trolling, partly a callback to Paro’s earlier mistreatment, and partly foreshadowing for Devdas’s eventual death.

(Chandramukhi in the 2002 film also gets a great scene where she stands up to an aristocrat who insults her caste and profession by straight-up SLAPPING the guy in front of his whole upper-caste family. Meng Shi would approve.)

Though this is one of Chandramukhi’s earlier scenes, something about the tone sounds like a regretful swan song, and I chose it for its sound and lyrics rather than its context. “My happiness has killed me,” indeed. :(

6.) “Mere Dholna Sun” (from Bhool Bhulaiyya)

Listen, dear one To the beat of my love My love for you Will stay through the monsoons It will survive and live It will remain till the end

This translation was taken from a YouTube lyrics video because none of my usual lyrics sites had an English translation!  Which is a shame, because this banger of a song is far and away the best part of this film. A woman who believes herself possessed by the ghost of a Bengali court dancer relives the moment of her husband’s death through one hell of a kathak routine. Please watch the video, because Vidya Balan’s intensity is CAPTIVATING.

And as you watch, consider LXC in seclusion, unhinged and vividly hallucinating in his grief. If I have to think about this, then so do you. :D