Highway/An unforgettable journey

Cast: Alia Bhatt, Randeep Hooda

Release Date: February 21

On the threshold of marriage, Veera (Alia Bhatt) is travelling on the highway with her fiancé. Her life, however takes a complete turn when she is abducted by a gang. The gang leader Mahavir Batti (Randeep Hooda) is adamant to not let her go and demand’s a huge ransom from her father, who is a well known industrialist. But as the days pass by, Veera notices that the journey has changed her life, as she develops a bond with the very man who had abducted her.

Screen forecast

Since the music of Highway composed by A.R Rahman has picked up well and there is curiosity about the unusual lead pair (Alia Bhatt and Randeep Hooda) and the storyline, Highway is expected to get a decent opening at the box office, ranging between 65 – 75 percent. The film will hold well if the word of mouth publicity is strong, especially in the urban centres. It will do moderate business in the interiors. If it fails to impress, Highway will face tough competition from Shaadi Ke Side Effects, which releases next week.

The Monuments Men/ Reality strikes

Director: George Clooney

Producr: George Clooney

Cast: George Clooney, Matt Damon, Bill Murray, Cate Blanchett, John Goodman, Bob Balaban

Release Date: February 21

Monuments Men is based on a true story about a group of men — including art historians and museum directors — who went behind enemy lines during World War II to rescue great artworks that were being looted by the Nazis. They risked their lives to protect and defend mankind’s greatest achievements.

The buzz

Daniel Craig was the original choice for the character of James Granger, but he dropped out due to scheduling conflicts and the role ultimately went to Elysium star Matt Damon.

Pompeii 3D/ Against all odds

Director: Paul W.S Anderson

Producer: FilmDistrict, Constantin film, TriStar Pictures

Cast: Kit Harington, Emily Browning, Kiefer Sutherland, Jared Harris, Jessica Lucas, Carrie Ann – Moss

Release Date: February 21

Based in AD 79, the film follows the life of Milo (Kit Harington), a slave turned gladiator. He has to surmount obstacles in order to save his love Cassia (Emily Browning),  who has been unwillingly betrothed to the corrupt Roman Senator Corvis (Kiefer Sutherland). As the once  historical Roman city of Pompeii crumbles around him, Milo must fight  in order to save his beloved.

The buzz

The first official teaser trailer of the movie was released on August 21, 2013, six months before the theatrical release in USA