THE Sandalwood film industry underperformed and is feeling the heat of failure towards the end of 2009. While the number of films released in 2009 (119) was almost the same as the number in 2008 (118), the success rate was way below the mark. And, as always, the ‘filmy’ fraternity had its share of controversies.
The year began with the release of Prajwal Devaraj-starrer Gulaama followed by Nagendra Magadi film Chikpete Saachagalu. The much hyped Ganesh starrer Circus also released in January but the film failed to get the cash registers ringing at the box office.
Yogesh starrer Ambari began with average collections but later picked up and completed 100 days at the Sagar theatre.
Vijay’s film Jangli, released in February, brought some cheer to its producer.
However, Chethan’s film Birugaali and Ramesh Aravind’s Venkat In Sankata, expected to do well at the box, failed to impress.
Pooja Gandhi’s film Anu and Shivaraj Kumar’s film Nanda failed to have a positive impact on the box office.
The films Josh and Savaari are the only films that did well at the box office in March. Vijay’s film Thakath completed 50 days. While July was unlucky for Komal’s film Chamkaayisi Chindi Udaayisi, it proved lucky for his brother Jaggesh’s film Eddelu Manjunatha.
Malashree’s Kiran Bedi brought cheers to her husband Ramu. Love Guru and Housefull also succeeded at the box office, while Manasaare is still going great guns.
Ganesh’s film Maleyali Jotheyali and Agni Sridhar’s Kallara Santhe films were released in December and it is too early to classify them as hits or flops.
Controversies
Ramya retains the tag of the controversial heroine of sandalwood. Her quarrels with journalists and her outbursts against choreographer Harsha on the sets of Just Maath Maathalli have propelled her to the unpopular position.
Her decision to walk out of the film Naanu Nanna Kanasu did not help either.
Nagathihally Chandrasekhar and Aindrita Ray were in the lime light due to ‘misunderstandings’ between them.
MP Ambareesh resigned as the president of Kannada Cine Artistes’ Association and later withdrew it.