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This soupy Christmas drama based on Paul Kelly’s song tips into corny sentimentalism – and comes dangerously close to suggesting that gravy is actually magic Get our weekend culture and lifestyle email How to Make Gravy is a rare example of a film that originated as a song – in this case, the beloved ballad by Paul Kelly. Maybe, given the entertainment industry’s addiction to recycling pre-existing IP, transforming popular tracks into movies will one day become a thing. Not that I’m looking forward to it: this soupy Christmas drama from first-time feature director Nick Waterman demonstrates how lyrics can become a series of reference points, with an obvious temptation to be very visual and literal – to give us that shot of a gravy boat being passed reverentially around the dinner table. Waterman deploys the gravy early in the runtime, staging it as a moment of quasi-religious significance. This is not a subtle film – some scenes made my face react not like I’d consumed a delicious...

A 32-year-old woman has accused Bollywood actor Sharad Kapoor, best known for his roles in films like Josh, Tamanna, Dastak, Trishakti, and Iski Topi Uske Sar, of attempted sexual harassment. Reportedly, the woman filed a formal complaint with the Khar police, who have registered a case under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (Indian Penal Code) and are now investigating the matter. The Allegations Against Sharad Kapoor According to the woman's statement, she was invited to Sharad Kapoor's residence under the pretext of discussing professional work. However, upon arriving at what she believed to be a meeting location, she discovered that it was, in fact, the actor's personal home. The victim, who is also an actor and producer, claimed that Sharad Kapoor invited her into his bedroom and attempted to hug her inappropriately. The woman described the sequence of events as follows: after entering the building in Khar, she was directed to the actor's bedroom, ...

Businessman Raj Kundra has issued his first official statement following the Enforcement Directorate (ED) raids on his properties in connection to the ongoing pornographic content case. Raj Kundra Responds to Media Speculation Late on Friday night, Raj Kundra took to his Instagram stories to address the media coverage surrounding the raids. In his statement, he confirmed that he is fully cooperating with the investigation, which has been ongoing for four years. "I’m fully complying with the ongoing investigation that has been unfolding for the last four years," Kundra wrote. "As for the claims of ‘associates’, ‘pornographic’, and ‘money laundering’, let’s just say that no amount of sensationalism will cloud the truth. In the end, justice will prevail!" Kundra also expressed his frustration with the media, particularly regarding reports involving his wife, Shilpa Shetty. He urged the public to refrain from dragging her name into the controversy. “It’s unacceptable...

After the massive success of Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior (2020), actor-producer Ajay Devgn and director Om Raut are reportedly planning a sequel centered on India’s unsung heroes. Sources reveal that Devgn is eager to cast Hrithik Roshan in a significant antagonist role, making it a potentially groundbreaking collaboration in Indian cinema. Yes, you read it right! Plans for a Film Franchise on Unsung Heroes If a report by Mid-Day is something to go by, then Ajay Devgn envisioned creating a franchise celebrating India's forgotten warriors. Although delayed due to other commitments, the project appears to be gaining momentum. Recent meetings between Devgn and Raut at the actor’s office suggest discussions have restarted on the sequel. Initially, the duo planned to bring the story of Maratha general Baji Prabhu Deshpande to the screen, who is known for his valor in the Battle of Pavan Khind (1660). Baji Prabhu sacrificed his life defending Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. However, the r...

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted a series of raids on Friday, November 29, 2024, targeting businessman Raj Kundra, along with several others, as part of an ongoing investigation into a money laundering case linked to the alleged distribution of pornographic content. The raids are being carried out across multiple locations in Mumbai and Uttar Pradesh. Raids Across Multiple Locations According to a report by PTI, approximately 15 locations are being searched as part of the probe. The investigation revolves around the suspects’ alleged involvement in distributing pornographic material through various channels, including mobile applications and other digital platforms. Raj Kundra and Others Named in Case Raj Kundra, who is married to Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty, is at the center of the investigation. This comes after an FIR was registered in connection with the distribution of pornographic videos. Along with Kundra, other individuals, including actors Sherlyn Chopra and ...

The highly anticipated espionage thriller War 2, directed by Ayan Mukerji, promises to deliver a breathtaking climax featuring an epic showdown between Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR. To ensure the action lives up to expectations, the production has enlisted top stunt directors who have previously worked on Hollywood blockbusters like Venom and Avengers: Age of Ultron as well as Bollywood hits like Jawan and Pathaan. An Action-Packed Climax in the Making The final leg of the shoot is set to begin in mid-December, with a 15-day schedule in Mumbai at Film City and YRF Studios. A massive set replicating Jr NTR’s hideout is under construction, setting the stage for the ultimate clash. The sequences will transition from a hangar to the villain’s hideout, promising a blend of high-octane action and visual spectacle. A report by Mid-Day quoted a source saying, “From the second week of December, Hrithik and Jr NTR will film their final face-off. The late Rajat Poddar designed most of the sets, an...

Over a career that spanned seven decades, Pinal was a muse to director Luis Buñuel, appearing in 60s classics such as Viridiana Silvia Pinal, an actor from Mexico’s Golden Age of cinema and muse to the director Luis Buñuel, has died aged 93. Pinal got her start in theatre in the 1940s, working with the director Rafael Banquells – the first of her four husbands. She became a star in 1950 aged 18, when she appeared opposite two of Mexico’s biggest comedic film stars: Germán Valdés (Tin-Tan) in The King of the Neighborhood and Mario Moreno (Cantinflas) in The Doorman. In 1952 she appeared alongside heartthrob Pedro Infante in A Place Near Heaven. Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/SaDZBtY via IFTTT

Fiennes is broodingly compelling as a potential English pope caught up in murky Vatican intrigue around choosing the next pontiff Who knew that the laborious process of democracy, of simply voting over and over again, could be so exciting and so amusing? Edward Berger’s drama is adapted with masterly flair by screenwriter Peter Straughan from the Robert Harris pageturner; Ralph Fiennes is on sumptuous form as the deeply troubled Cardinal Lawrence at the centre of a murky Vatican plot. The result is a high-camp gripper, like the world’s most serious Carry On film. Fiennes’ character is Italian in Harris’s book, but Straughan makes him an Englishman: an unquiet soul who is theoretically on the verge of becoming the first English pope since Adrian IV, although no one is so vulgar or nationalistic as to point that out. With the ailing pope in extremis, Cardinal Lawrence arrives at His Holiness’s death bed to find other ambitious cardinals, who have all cultivated an opaque, unreadable ma...

The industry and fans are gearing up for the release of Pushpa 2 – The Rule on December 5 and the excitement is tremendous. This is because Pushpa: The Rise – Part 01, which was released on December 17, 2021, was a sleeper super-hit. The film continues to remain memorable and the lead character has earned a sizable fan following. The first part was released in Hindi by Manish Shah of Goldmines Telefilms. Both Manish Shah and the franchise benefited hugely from each other and it was expected that the makers will continue their partnership with Goldmies for Pushpa 2 – The Rule as well. Shockingly, that hasn’t happened. A trade source told Bollywood Hungama why Goldmines Telefilms is not associated with Pushpa 2 – The Rule, “The producers, Mythri Movie Makers, had certain differences with Goldmines. Manish Shah acquired the Hindi dubbed version of Pushpa: The Rise – Part 01 for around Rs. 30 crores on MG. Back in the day, everyone in the i...

The writer and director, who died this week, helped to define what big screen spoofs would look like in the decades after Jim Abrahams, co-creator of Airplane! and The Naked Gun, dies aged 80 Very few people can honestly claim to have changed the direction of comedy, but Jim Abrahams – who died this week – is one of them. Thanks to the procession of spoof movies he made, both alone and with his fellow writer-directors David and Jerry Zucker, Abrahams helped to carve out a brand new genre of comedy, equal parts straight-faced and scattergun. The most enduring Zucker, Abrahams and Zucker (ZAZ) film remains Airplane! After leveraging the show they honed at University of Wisconsin–Madison into the entertaining if directionless sketch film The Kentucky Fried Movie, the trio came across the 1957 aviation thriller Zero Hour! on television. They were so taken by the silly plot and wooden acting that they decided to parody the whole thing, by hewing so closely to the original that they en...

Fascinating documentary about Margaret Moth, whose footage from war zones almost killed her in 1992, lives up to her motto ‘don’t be boring’ When TV news camerawoman Margaret Moth was shot through the face by a Serbian sniper in Sarajevo in 1992, her CNN colleagues were told that it was touch and go. One medic said that her face was so badly injured it might be better if she died. But not only did Moth survive, she went back to the frontline. “She didn’t do less war after she was shot,” remembers one colleague and friend. “She did more.” This documentary about her life, directed by the actor Lucy Lawless, is a fascinating portrait of a woman who had two mottoes: “no regrets” and “don’t be boring”. With her jet-black hair, thick black eyeliner and army combat boots (which she slept in on the job) Moth looked more like a punk singer than a camera operator. Born and raised in New Zealand, she officially changed her name from Margaret Wilson to Margaret Moth in her 20s and went to court ...

Actor Sunny Deol is heading back to the sets of Lahore 1947 after the perfectionist actor-filmmaker Aamir Khan suggested key additions to enhance the film. Directed by Rajkumar Santoshi, the project delves into the emotional upheaval and resilience of individuals during the Partition. Aamir Khan’s Vision for Lahore 1947 Aamir Khan, who is producing the film, reviewed the first cut of Lahore 1947 and felt certain sequences could benefit from heightened dramatic intensity. A report by Mid-Day quoted a source close to the production saying, “Aamir shared his thoughts with Rajkumar Santoshi, and they agreed on incorporating additional shots to elevate the visual and emotional impact. The changes aim to ensure the narrative is as compelling as the story demands.” Sunny Deol Aligns Schedule for Patch Shoot Sunny Deol, fresh from completing Jaat, readily adjusted his schedule for the patch shoot. A crew member revealed, “The team will film a song and additional scenes that will amplify cruci...

Famed comedy writer and director, who was also involved in Ruthless People and Hot Shots!, died of natural causes Jim Abrahams, the writer-director involved with hit comedies Airplane! and The Naked Gun, has died at the age of 80. According to his son Joseph, who confirmed the news to the Hollywood Reporter , he died of natural causes at his home in Santa Monica. Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/wcYVBRg via IFTTT

Tafakory’s blend of reality and fiction is ‘a compelling exploration of displacement, memory and resistance’ according to the judging panel Iranian artist Maryam Tafakory has won this year’s Film London Jarman award , which recognises British excellence in the field of moving image. Tafakory took the £10,000 prize for her work, which combines found footage with the cinematic traditions of post-revolutionary Iran. Her 2020 film Irani Bag used a split-screen technique to show how handbags were often deployed in films as stand-ins for human touch. The censorship of intimacy is a theme through Tafakory’s work – from the abstract, non-linear narrative film Nazarbazi (2022) to the following year’s Mast-del , which explored a forbidden relationship between two women. Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/WIc64V3 via IFTTT

Director and producer Raaj Shaandilyaa and Vimal Lahoti have acquired the Hindi remake rights of Fouja, a film that has won three National Awards this year. This project will be produced under their banner, Kathavachak Films. Fouja has won three National Awards. With themes of resilience, patriotism, and humanity, the original film resonated with audiences across the country. The Hindi remake aims to bring this narrative to a broader audience. Sharing his thoughts, Raaj Shaandilyaa said, “I am honored to bring Fouja to Hindi cinema. It’s a story of extraordinary courage and emotion that deserves to be experienced by a larger audience. My goal is to remain faithful to the soul of the original while crafting a version that resonates with Hindi-speaking viewers and beyond.” Producer Vimal Lahoti also expressed his enthusiasm for the project said, “Producing the Hindi adaptation of Fouja is an incredible opportunity to retell a story that has already touched so many lives. We are commit...

Javed Akhtar has clarified his earlier blunt remarks about the blockbuster success of Sandeep Reddy Vanga's 2023 family crime drama Animal, starring Ranbir Kapoor in the lead role. In an interview with Mojo Story, he explained that his comments were directed at the audience rather than the film itself. “I did not opine on Animal, I opined on the audience. Honestly! I believe if 10-12-15 people have made a film with wrong values… if 10-12 people produce a song which is vulgar, crude, obscene… that's not the problem. If 15 out of 140 crore people are perverts or have wrong values, it's okay, doesn't matter. When that thing goes out in the market and becomes a superhit, that’s the problem,” Javed Akhtar explained. When the veteran lyricist and screenwriter was asked why he thought Animal succeeded, he joked, “I think the basic title tells you why. The title is self-explanatory.” Earlier this year, Javed had mentioned at an event that although he hadn't seen Animal, h...

In the latest episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati 16, Anshuman Mathur and Paritosh Gupta faced off in the Challenger's round, where Paritosh emerged victorious and claimed the hot seat. He works as a consultant for a cybersecurity company and resides in a chawl measuring less than 100 square feet. He shared, “I lived there with my parents, and now I live there with my wife.” “My dream is to buy a home, and I hope to achieve that with the prize money,” he said. The game begins with Rs 20,000 question: In Mumbai, which of these names refers to both a railway station and a racecourse? A. Goregaon, B. Parel, C. Mahalakshmi, D. Dadar. He correctly answers option C. Big B talks about the racecourse and said that often people go there and get addicted. Then he shares an interesting story and said, “I am saying all this because there was a time, when I used to work in Kolkata, there is also a race course. I used to earn Rs 300-400 but it was no enough for a living. I used to visit that ...

She became famous in the late 00s as Effy in Skins, and now she’s back in Netflix drama Senna. She talks about growing up poor in London, why she loves doing action films – and the pitfalls of taking her kids to work As well as an eight-year-old son and a two-year-old daughter, Kaya Scodelario is the dedicated parent of a 10-year-old French bulldog called Arnie. She is hiding from at least one of them during our video call, and says it’s the dog. She is in the cosy and, crucially, locked spare bedroom of her home in north London, where she sits cross-legged on the floor. The mood is decidedly wholesome, and spiritually a million miles away from the place where audiences first encountered her, on Channel 4’s landmark teen drama Skins. Her character, Effy Stonem – sister to Nicholas Hoult’s Tony – uttered barely a word in series one and two; by series three she was the lead, captivating the boys of Bristol’s Roundview sixth form, not least by challenging them to sniff glue and start fi...

Sanjay Leela Bhansali's much-awaited epic, Love & War, is creating a lot of excitement, thanks to its impressive cast featuring Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal. During the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa, Ranbir expressed his enthusiasm about working with the renowned director once more, sharing that he was "extremely excited" to collaborate with him again, according to The Indian Express. While speaking on stage, Ranbir shared, "I am extremely excited. He is my godfather. Everything I know about films, everything I know about acting, it is something I learnt from him." Ranbir is no stranger to collaborating with the renowned director. He previously worked as an assistant director on Bhansali's Black (2005) and made his acting debut in Saawariya (2007). Reflecting on their continued partnership, Ranbir said, “He hasn’t changed at all. He is extremely hard-working. All he thinks about is his movies. He just wants to s...

Combined $270m of worldwide ticket sales for Ridley Scott and Jon Chu movies leads to one of 2024’s busiest weekends With a combined $270m in worldwide ticket sales, Wicked and Gladiator II breathed fresh life into a box office that has struggled lately, leading to one of the busiest moviegoing weekends of the year. Jon M Chu’s lavish big-budget musical Wicked, starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, debuted with $114m domestically and $164.2m globally for Universal Pictures, according to studio estimates on Sunday. That made it the third-biggest opening weekend of the year, behind only Deadpool & Wolverine and Inside Out 2. It’s also a record for a Broadway musical adaptation. Wicked, $114m. Gladiator II, $55.5m. Red One, $13.3m. Bonhoeffer: Pastor Spy Assassin, $5.1m. Venom: The Last Dance, $4m. Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/fALOieD via IFTTT

Diljit Dosanjh, who typically avoids controversies, found himself caught in one when the Telangana state government issued him a notice, warning him not to perform songs promoting alcohol and violence during his concert in Hyderabad. In response, the singer altered the lyrics of his songs while performing. After his Hyderabad show, while performing in Ahmedabad, Diljit addressed the legal notice. During his set, he clarified that he does not promote alcohol, and that only a few of his songs touch on the topic, which he can easily modify. Expressing his frustration over being singled out for this issue, he declared that if every state in India becomes alcohol-free, he would stop making songs about alcohol altogether. The Chamkila star received backing from his fans when he openly expressed his feelings. Recently, his industry peer and close friend, Badshah, also came to his defense. During an appearance at the Aaj Tak event, Badshah criticized the apparent double standards, pointing ou...

Washington also rolled back on his earlier claim the scene was cut from the film, calling the kiss a ‘peck’ The director of Gladiator II has denied claims by its star, Denzel Washington, that a same-sex kiss was cut from the final version of the film. Speaking last week, Washington – who plays a bisexual slave trader in the film – said: “I actually kissed a man in the film but they took it out, they cut it, I think they got chicken. I kissed a guy full on the lips and I guess they weren’t ready for that yet.” Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/yMK9vpF via IFTTT

Former Bigg Boss contestant and actor Ajaz Khan ventured into politics by contesting the Maharashtra assembly elections from the Versova constituency under the Aazad Samaj Party (Kanshi Ram) banner. According to the Election Commission's latest tally, he garnered only 131 votes. Despite having over 5.6 million Instagram followers, Ajaz Khan's social media popularity did not convert into votes. In the Versova constituency, Haroon Khan leads with 58,047 votes, while the NOTA (None of the Above) option has received 1,022 votes—nearly six times Ajaz Khan's total of 131 votes. The voter turnout in Versova stood at 42.2%. Traditionally a Congress stronghold, the Versova constituency had 16 candidates contesting in this election. Maharashtra witnessed its highest voter turnout in over three decades, reflecting the intense competition between the Mahayuti alliance (BJP-Shiv Sena-NCP) and the Maha Vikas Aghadi (NCP(SP)-Shiv Sena (UBT)-Congress). Early trends on Saturday indicat...

Bringing back the legendary cast - Shivaji Satam as ACP Pradyuman, Dayanand Shetty as Daya, and Aditya Srivastavaa as Abhijeet, CID, which has captivated audiences for over two decades, is set to make an explosive return next month, on Sony Entertainment Television. Fans have been eagerly celebrating this revival, reliving their childhood memories. To add to their excitement, the makers have now unveiled a new promo that has piqued their interest. In the last promo, fans were left shocked to see the deadly bullet hit the popular cop – Inspector Daya which was allegedly fired by his best friend and cop, Abhijeet. However, in the freshly released promo, in a jaw-dropping twist, Daya is seen making a heroic return with his signature style and enters “darwaza todkar”, with a hard-hitting dialogue:  "Dushman bhi mujhe mita nahi paaye, main wapas aagaya, apne liye ladne aur jo bhool gaya hai, usse yaad dilane ki liye (Enemies couldn’t destroy me, I am back to fight for myself and to re...

One of the most loved films of Indian cinema, Karan Arjun (1995), had a grand re-release yesterday, November 22. Starring Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan, it managed to open at Rs. 26 lakhs, and is thus, now the third biggest opening day grosser for a re-release. The re-release trend picked up big time this year and the biggest grosser in this regard was Tumbbad at Rs. 1.50 crores. This was followed by Laila Majnu, which opened at Rs. 30 lakhs. Karan Arjun, meanwhile, earned Rs. 26 lakhs and that’s more than the re-release first-day collections of Veer-Zaara (Rs. 20 lakhs), Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein (Rs. 20 lakhs), Kal Ho Naa Ho (Rs. 12 lakhs) and Rockstar (Rs. 7 lakhs). Interestingly, Karan Arjun also collected more than Ajay Devgn’s Naam, a two-decade-old film, which finally had a release yesterday. It collected Rs. 20 lakhs. Pushpa also arrived yet again in cinemas as its sequel will be ou...

On Tuesday, AR Rahman took the nation by shock as he announced separation from his wife after 29 years of marriage. While his kids have requested privacy and addressed the media showcasing their support towards their family and parents, another divorce note which was from the musical maestro’s bassist Mohini Dey has further added to the speculations. Considering that the musician announced soon after the maestro shared this life update has got netizens talking. Mohini Dey, who has performed for AR Rahman for many years, incidentally announced her divorce on the same day as the latter which has fueled up rumours. After the musician’s lawyers addressed the same earlier this week, now Dey too has decided to speak up on it. While she maintained silence all this while, on Friday, she took to her Instagram handle to share a note on her story which asserted her stance on the ongoing rumours as she wrote about the innumerable interview calls coming her way. “I've been getting a humongous ...

In Edward Berger’s Oscar-tipped drama, the three actors play cardinals vying to become pope. Ahead of the film’s UK release, they form a huddle to discuss fame, food – and why Trump won Faith, death and vengeful vaping: of all the Oscar contenders this year, Conclave is the one that best combines chewy religious inquiry and lavish side-eye. Adapted by Wolf Hall screenwriter Peter Straughan from the Robert Harris novel, Conclave has been directed by All Quiet on the Western Front ’s Edward Berger as a heavy-breathing battle for hearts, minds and power. Ralph Fiennes stars as Cardinal Lawrence, who, after the sudden death of the pope, must park his own religious doubts to wrangle the 113 cardinals who have descended on the Vatican. These men will be sequestered until they can elect one of their number as the new pontiff. Among them are the gentle progressive Bellini (Stanley Tucci) and smooth traditionalist Tremblay (John Lithgow). Both have secrets. But are they as lethal as those of ...

Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman and his wife, Saira, have chosen to part ways after almost 30 years of marriage. Their lawyer, Vandana Shah, confirmed the mutual decision and requested privacy for the family during this challenging period. Rahman and Saira's lawyer spoke out Vandana Shah told ANI, “The divorce hasn't happened yet. I am representing both of them. I can't reveal the reason, but it is a marriage of 29 years. In every marriage, ups and downs are common. It is a painful decision, but it is a joint decision. Family's privacy must be respected at this point of time.” The news was first announced through a joint statement issued by Saira's lawyer, Vandana Shah. The couple cited "significant emotional strain" as the reason for their decision to part ways. “On behalf and instruction of Mrs. Saira and her husband renowned musician Allahrakka Rahman (A.R. Rahman), Vandana Shah and Associates issue the following statement regarding the couple'...

A new report suggests that the individual arrested for issuing death threats to actor Shah Rukh Khan was monitoring his activities and attempting to gather private details about his family. The accused, identified as Raipur-based lawyer Faizan Khan, is in custody for allegedly threatening the actor and demanding extortion. According to a report by The Times of India, investigations revealed that Faizan Khan conducted extensive online searches to gather information about Shah Rukh Khan's family's security arrangements and movements. He also tracked the movements of the actor and his son, Aryan Khan. This discovery was made through a forensic analysis of Faizan's second mobile phone, recovered by the Bandra Police investigation team. Reports indicate that Faizan, currently in judicial custody for ten days, has been providing investigators with evasive and contradictory explanations for his searches related to Shah Rukh Khan and his family's movements. Both Shah Rukh and...

A couple who discover that three of their four children have a degenerative eye disease go on a round-the-world family holiday in this beautifully shot but saccharine documentary An active, boisterous French-Canadian family of six, led by mum Edith Lemay and dad Sébastien Pelletier, discover that three out of their four kids have the gene for the disease retinitis pigmentosa . That means eldest sister Mia, and younger boys Colin and Laurent will gradually go blind, first by losing their ability to see in the dark. Only middle child Léo got lucky and didn’t inherit it. When the parents asked a doctor what they would do if their child got such a diagnosis, the doctor said they would help their children make as many visual memories as they could while they still had time, so the Lemay-Pelletiers decided to take a year out and go travelling around the world, funded by shares Sébastian had just recently gained. As well as presumably some kind of financial or at least logistical support fro...

Washington also rolled back on his earlier claim the scene was cut from the film, calling the kiss a ‘peck’ The director of Gladiator II has denied claims by its star, Denzel Washington, that a same-sex kiss was cut from the final version of the film. Speaking last week, Washington – who plays a bisexual slave trader in the film – said: “I actually kissed a man in the film but they took it out, they cut it, I think they got chicken. I kissed a guy full on the lips and I guess they weren’t ready for that yet.” Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/Bt62qhM via IFTTT

Legendary composer and singer AR Rahman and his wife, Saira, have announced their separation after 29 years of marriage. The couple tied the knot in Chennai on March 12, 1995, and share three children—Khatija, Raheema, and Ameen. Official Statement from Saira’s Lawyers In a statement issued on Tuesday, November 19, Saira's lawyers confirmed the decision, citing emotional strain as a key factor. "After many years of marriage, Mrs. Saira has made the difficult decision to separate from her husband, Mr. AR Rahman. This decision comes after significant emotional strain in their relationship. Despite their deep love for each other, the couple has found that the tensions and difficulties have created an insurmountable gap between them, one that neither party feels able to bridge at this time," the statement read. The statement further added, "Mrs. Saira emphasised that she has taken this decision out of pain and agony. She requests privacy and understanding from the publ...

Rashida Jones read the speech her father had drafted ahead of his honorary Oscar, while Richard Curtis called on the industry to ‘create a mechanism that helps change things’ Quincy Jones died too soon to accept an honorary Oscar at the Governors awards on Sunday night – so the ceremony in Los Angeles became a moving celebration of the life of a music legend. Jones, who died on 3 November aged 91, was one of five Hollywood luminaries due to be honoured at the 15th Governors awards. In his absence, his daughter Rashida Jones read the speech he had drafted, alongside a spirited performance by Jennifer Hudson. Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/LETGjHr via IFTTT

Plucked from near-obscurity to more than hold her own as Rey in the Star Wars franchise, Ridley will be here to answer your questions Daisy Jazz Isobel Ridley was working in a pub when she was cast as Rey in Star Wars: The Force Awakens , having previously only appeared in a small number of short films and the 2015 horror-thriller Scrawl. Around her subsequent Star Wars duties for the remains of the sequel trilogy – which she reprises for a yet untitled upcoming Star Wars film – Ridley swapped her lightsaber for assorted big-screen tales of homicide (Kenneth Branagh’s first Poirot outing Murder on the Orient Express , a take on Hamlet from the point of view of Ophelia ) and rabbits (voicing Cottontail in the massively successful Peter Rabbit cartoon opposite James Cordon). Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/aVDn2mZ via IFTTT

Dilip Joshi, known for his iconic portrayal of Jethalal in Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah (TMKOC), has addressed the viral rumours about an alleged fight with the show’s producer, Asit Modi. The actor denied these reports, calling them baseless and hurtful. "False Stories Hurt Us and Our Fans" Responding to claims that he had a heated argument with Asit Modi, even holding the producer by his collar, Joshi issued a heartfelt statement. He expressed frustration over the spread of false information, saying: "There have been some stories in the media about me and Asit Bhai that are completely false, and it really saddens me to see such things being said. Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah is a show that means so much to me and millions of fans, and when people spread baseless rumors, it hurts not only us but also our loyal viewers." "Negativity Around the Show Is Disheartening" Joshi emphasised the impact of such rumours on the cast, crew, and fans of the belov...

Madhuri Dixit shocked many by stepping away from acting at the height of her career to get married. In 1999, she tied the knot with Dr. Shriram Nene and relocated to Colorado, where they lived a quiet life away from the spotlight for several years. In 2011, the family, including their two sons, Arin and Ryan, returned to India. Recently, Madhuri, who appeared in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, shared her thoughts on moving abroad after marriage, saying she didn’t miss anything about her earlier life. In an interview with Galatta India, Madhuri Dixit shared, “I was very happy because for me, the paraphernalia was not very important to me. I loved what I do. I love acting, dancing and everything to do with my profession. Anything else is just bonus like people considering you as a star. But I haven’t ever felt that way about me. So for me, it was never like, ‘Oh my god, I am going away from the public eye. I am getting married at the peak of my career.’ I never thought of it that way.” She further ...

Pedro Speroni’s documentary follows Iván Bilbao’s return from prison to a family full of troubles and tenderness Fresh out of prison after a five-year stint in maximum security, Iván Bilbao comes home to the open arms of his family in Chascomús, a small town two hours south of Buenos Aires. Looking to return to professional boxing, he maintains his muscular physique through rigorous training, all while keeping his old job as a moneylender. Seeing beyond Iván’s criminal past, Pedro Speroni’s soulful documentary reveals the fragility that lies behind his tough-guy facade. Bearing the marks of his difficult life, Iván’s handsome, weathered face softens when he is with his girlfriend Yamila and her daughter Luz. When the day winds down, laughter fills the house as the three of them share a meal together. At the same time, the emotional baggage of family traumas, along with economic insecurity, also threaten to disrupt Iván’s efforts at rehabilitation. A tender scene where he serenades Ya...

One of the most celebrated films in Indian cinema, Karan Arjun (1995), starring Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan, is gearing up for a grand re-release on November 22, 2024. Directed by Rakesh Roshan, this blockbuster will mark the biggest worldwide re-release ever for a Hindi film. In a conversation with Bollywood Hungama, Rakesh Roshan reminisced about working with the two superstars during the making of the film. "A Simpler Time on Set": Roshan on Working with Shah Rukh and Salman When asked about the difference between working with stars then and now, Rakesh Roshan fondly recalled the simpler times of filmmaking in the 1990s. "You won't believe it," he shared. "I made the entire film in 80-90 days. When we went for outdoor shoots, Shah Rukh’s room was 15 by 15 feet, and Salman’s was the same. Kajol and the others had similar rooms too. There was an ashram nearby, under construction. There were no hotels in that village. I gave them money and asked them t...

Sajid Nadiadwala’s action franchise Baaghi 4, starring Tiger Shroff, is set to hit theaters on 5th September 2025. The release date and the filming were announced with a powerful new poster showcasing Tiger in an intense, never-before-seen avatar. Directed by A. Harsha, known for films like Bajrangi and Veda, Baaghi 4 is set to deliver intense man-to-man action. With this fourth installment, Tiger Shroff continues his role in one of Bollywood's prominent action franchises, marking his presence across four films. Baaghi 4 is expected to push the boundaries of the action genre, bringing more intense and thrilling sequences to the screen. The success of the previous films sets high expectations for the latest installment, promising fans an even more exciting cinematic experience.   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Nadiadwala Grandson (@nadiadwalagrandson) Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment, in the coming year celebrates 75 years of delivering top-notch entertai...

Aamir Khan is working to repair his relationship with his daughter, Ira Khan. The actor shared that they are attending joint therapy to address and resolve their issues. In a Netflix India video, Aamir joined Ira and Dr. Vivek Murthy to discuss mental health. During the chat Aamir said, “Therapy is so helpful. I think she (Ira) pushed me down that path. I would strongly recommend therapy to anyone who feels the need for it? It has been helpful for me. In fact, Ira and I also have started joint therapy. The two of us go to a therapist for our own relationship. To work on how to make that better and issues which have been there for over years.” In a candid conversation on Rhea Chakraborty’s podcast “Chapter 2,” Aamir Khan expressed regret over his absence from his children’s lives, which he believes contributed to his decision to leave the film industry. Aamir Khan, a prominent figure in Indian cinema for over three decades, acknowledged that the pandemic gave him a harsh wake-up call...

The British film star issued a statement after accusations were made against the director but now says ‘I don’t think it’s the responsibility of his actors to speak to that situation’ ‘I’ve had a wild, chaotic, beautiful life’: Rebecca Hall on race, regrets and learning to be herself The leading British actor and director Rebecca Hall regrets making a public apology for having worked with Woody Allen , she has revealed. Actors, she now believes, should not feel pressured into taking positions on contentious issues. The film star, who starred to great acclaim in Allen’s 2008 film Vicky Cristina Barcelona , made her high-profile statement six years ago in the initial wake of the Harvey Weinstein abuse story when she was due to appear on screen in Allen’s 2019 romantic comedy A Rainy Day in New York , alongside Timothée Chalamet, Selena Gomez and Jude Law. Her comments were made when she was in an emotional “tangle” and pregnant, she tells the Observer magazine this weekend . She h...

Actor and director Rebecca Hall has always had to fight to define herself. Now, more comfortable than ever with where she is, she opens up about painting, working with Woody Allen, her BYO wedding – and her greatest indulgence We all thought that we knew Rebecca Hall – English rose, on stage since childhood, daughter of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s founder Sir Peter Hall, regularly described in Hollywood as one of the best actors of her generation. But in 2021 she took what she calls now “a big swing” and suddenly the whole story cracked in half. The big swing was her directorial debut, Passing , a film about two women of colour, one of whom is “passing” for white; Hall had been working on the story for 15 years, but thinking about it for far longer. Her maternal grandfather, a doorman from Detroit, passed as white, as did Hall’s mother the opera singer Maria Ewing , whose experience of growing up with internalised racism contributed to mental health issues that Hall had to navig...

Punjabi music sensation Diljit Dosanjh addressed the controversy surrounding the Telangana government’s ban on some of his songs during his electrifying Hyderabad concert on Saturday night. Despite the restrictions, the singer entertained a packed stadium, taking a humorous yet pointed approach to the censorship. Telangana Govt’s Ban on Diljit’s Songs The Telangana government had earlier issued an order prohibiting Diljit from performing songs referencing alcohol, drugs, and violence during his Hyderabad concert. While performing, Diljit subtly criticized the decision without naming anyone directly. “When artists come to India from other countries, they are allowed to do whatever they like, sing whatever they want, koi tension nahin… But when an artist from your own country is singing, people have so many problems,” he remarked. Diljit Dosanjh's reply to Telengana government who asked him to censor lyrics related to violence or alcohol. byu/sheilakijawani_gone inBollyBlindsNGossi...

Actor and Shiv Sena leader Govinda was rushed to a Mumbai hospital on Saturday after experiencing health issues during a roadshow in Jalgaon as part of his campaign for the MahaYuti alliance. According to a report by IANS, the incident occurred while the actor was addressing voters in Pachora, one of the stops in his campaign across Muktainagar, Bodwad, Pachora, and Chopda. Health Concerns During Campaign Initially, Govinda reported mild physical discomfort but soon began experiencing severe chest pain and leg discomfort. Following doctors' advice, he was urgently airlifted to a Mumbai hospital for immediate medical attention. His family accompanied him during the emergency transfer, and he received initial treatment upon arrival. As of now, Govinda has not issued a statement about his condition, leaving fans and supporters concerned. Campaign for MahaYuti in Jalgaon Govinda has been an active supporter of the MahaYuti alliance, campaigning for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), S...

June Squibb’s star turn as a ninetysomething gran, scammed and out for justice, joins a club of indomitable seniors in the movies, from Anne Reid to Jack Nicholson June Squibb’s career has run on a different timeline to that of most movie stars: she made her film debut, in Woody Allen’s Alice , at the age of 60, and it was another 23 years before she landed her breakthrough role in Alexander Payne’s Nebraska . Her performance as an embittered pensioner who saltily badmouths past acquaintances and flashes the gravestone of an ex got her an Oscar nomination. It also got her a run of progressively less amusing naughty-granny roles. In Hollywood, older people can be blandly comforting support or quirky joke fodder but not much more. In Thelma , however, the now 95-year-old Squibb gets her first leading role, as a phone-scam victim tracking down those who robbed her, and adds some welcome human shading to the pensioner-behaving-badly stereotype. Its heroine may ride a scooter on her quest...

In a no-holds-barred open letter, celebrated actor Nayanthara has addressed long-standing issues with fellow actor-producer Dhanush K Raja. The letter sheds light on the hurdles she faced in obtaining the necessary permissions for her Netflix documentary, which chronicles her journey in cinema and her personal life. Nayanthara Alleges Personal Grudge Behind Denial Nayanthara accused Dhanush of deliberately refusing a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to use elements from their hit film Naanum Rowdy Dhaan in her documentary. Despite two years of attempts to secure permission, including requests for songs, visuals, and photographs, Dhanush allegedly declined approval. The actor expressed her disappointment in the letter, noting that the songs of Naanum Rowdy Dhaan were deeply personal and integral to the narrative of her documentary. She stated: "Your refusal to give us the opportunity to use the songs, or even just the lyrics, broke my heart." Legal Dispute Over Documentary Foo...

Disha Patani and her family have come in news after her father Deputy Superintendent of Police, Jagdish Patani has filed a complaint against four individuals for fraud and duping him of a whopping Rs. 25 lakhs in the name of providing a high position in a government commission. The names of the accused that have come to light include Shivendra Pratap Singh, Diwakar Garg, Acharya Jayaprakash, Preeti Garg, among others. The police investigation is currently underway and an FIR has been lodged regarding the same at Kotwali police station in Bareilly. Confirming the details, the in-charge of Kotwali police station DK Sharma was quoted saying to NDTV, “A case has been registered against Shivendra Pratap Singh, Diwakar Garg, Acharya Jayaprakash from Juna Akhara, Preeti Garg, and one unidentified person for cheating, criminal intimidation, and extortion. Efforts are underway to arrest the accused and take strict action”. Meanwhile, as per reports, Jagdish Patani had invested a certain trust ...

Producer Nikhil Dwivedi is set to revitalize the iconic folklore of Naagin with his upcoming project, casting Shraddha Kapoor in the legendary role. In a recent interview with India Today Digital, Dwivedi revealed that Shraddha was his first choice for the character. Dwivedi shared an update on the film. He said, “Finally, the script is ready now. It has taken us three years to script it. We have redone the entire script three times, and now I can say that it's finally ready.” Further discussing his decision to make Naagin, Dwivedi explained, “Firstly, it's a completely brand-new subject. It has no connection with previous films. The reason for me making this film is that Indian folklore is actually very rich in ideas. We get very excited when a spider bites a man, and he becomes Spider-Man. But we kind of look down upon a woman turning into a snake. Give us a chance, and we’ll turn it on its head, and you will see quite a supernatural and different film.” When asked about h...

The Fable, directed by writer-director Raam Reddy, has made history as the first Indian film to win the prestigious Best Film award in the main international competition (Constellation Features Competition) at the Leeds International Film Festival 2024. This marks a milestone achievement for Indian cinema, as no Indian film has previously received this honor at the festival since its inception in 1987. The award follows The Fable's recent success, including its world premiere at the Berlinale Film Festival 2024, and the Special Jury Prize at the 2024 MAMI Mumbai Film Festival. Director Raam Reddy said, “Leeds is an incredible festival, not just because of its amazing heartfelt curation but also because it is an Academy Award qualifying festival that screened nearly 250 amazing films this year! I got a chance to present The Fable in person in Leeds for the UK premiere and the audience reaction to the film was so engaging, it was amazing. This recognition of Best Film in such an imp...