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Showing posts from October, 2025

BREAKING: Korean producer Hyunwoo Thomas Kim approaches Akshay Kumar for an exciting project: “Sujoy Ghosh has already worked on its draft”

Since almost 10 years, Korean producer Hyunwoo Thomas Kim of Kross Pictures has quietly set up base in Mumbai and has been making some interesting, out-of-the-box Indian films like Te3n (2016), Jaane Jaan (2023), Blind (2023), Saakini Daakini (2022) etc. An article in Mid-Day, by Mayank Shekhar, documented his journey in India and a lot more. Hyunwoo Thomas Kim explained how he decided to set up an office in India. He revealed that in 2014, he regularly received emails from a company named 'Balaji' and he initially assumed that it was spam! One day, when he opened the mail, he realized that the prominent production house, Balaji Motion Pictures, has been mailing and asking for the rights of The Devotion Of Suspect X for a Hindi remake. Hyunwoo Thomas Kim wanted to know who would direct the remake. He was told that Sujoy Ghosh has been signed. Hyunwoo saw Sujoy’s Kahaani (2012) and was so impressed that he flew down to Mumbai to meet Sujoy and others. After the meeting, he gav...

Dharmendra hospitalised after breathlessness; condition stable at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital

Bollywood legend Dharmendra, fondly known as the 'OG He-Man,' has been admitted to Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital after complaining of breathlessness. The news sparked immediate concern among his millions of fans and the wider film fraternity. The 89-year-old veteran actor is currently under observation in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), but latest updates from the hospital indicate his condition is stable. Journalist Vickey Lalwani shared an update on social media after reportedly contacting the hospital, providing reassuring details directly from a staff member. “Dharmendra came in complaining of breathlessness. He is in the ICU and he is sleeping now. Nothing to worry, I asked? No, right now nothing to worry. He is stable. His parameters are okay—the heart rate is 70, the blood pressure is 140 by 80. His urine output is also good,” he stated in a social media post. While initial reports had suggested the visit was for a routine check-up, the hospital’s confirmation tha...

Peter Watkins, Oscar-winning director of The War Game, dies aged 90

Radical English director who clashed with the BBC over his ‘horrifying’ film about nuclear war, was forced to look abroad to continue working Peter Watkins, the radical British film-maker who won an Oscar for his controversial drama-documentary The War Game, about a nuclear attack on Britain, has died aged 90. In a statement, his family said he had died in hospital on Thursday in Bourganeuf, close to the small town of Felletin in central France, where he had lived for 25 years. They added: “The world of cinema loses one of its most incisive, inventive, and unclassifiable voices. We would like to thank all those who supported him throughout this long and sometimes solitary struggle.” Watkins was an uncompromising figure who clashed with the BBC after the latter failed to show The War Game on broadcast TV, and subsequently led a peripatetic film-making existence, looking overseas for backing. He was wary of the press . In a rare interview he spoke to the Guardian in 2000, saying he wa...

The Beatles: actors playing the spouses of the Fab Four in Sam Mendes’ films confirmed

Mia McKenna-Bruce, Saoirse Ronan, Anna Sawai and Aimee Lou Wood have been cast in the forthcoming four-part film series Sam Mendes’ ambitious four-part Beatles film has confirmed the casting of four main female roles. Sony Pictures officially announced that Mia McKenna-Bruce will play Maureen Cox, with Saoirse Ronan as Linda Eastman, Anna Sawai as Yoko Ono and Aimee Lou Wood as Pattie Boyd. All four had been strongly rumoured to have been in line for their parts, but only now has their participation been confirmed. Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/g13reqk via IFTTT

Sameer Wankhede calls The Ba***ds of Bollywood a “calculated hit job” aimed at settling personal scores: “Shha Rukh Khan, Aryan Khan can’t hide behind satire”

IRS officer and former NCB Mumbai Zonal Director Sameer Wankhede has strongly objected to Shah Rukh Khan-owned Red Chillies Entertainment's defense of its Netflix web series The Ba***ds of Bollywood, calling the show "a calculated hit job designed to settle personal scores.” In his rejoinder filed before the Delhi High Court, Wankhede dismissed the production house's claim that the show is satire, stating the series is a deliberate attempt to malign his reputation following the 2021 cruise ship drug raid case involving Aryan Khan, who directed the series. Wankhede alleged, "the character of a government officer depicted in the series was deliberately modelled on him, citing striking resemblances in appearance, speech, and the use of his trademark phrase 'Satyamev Jayate.' He said the scene amounted to a 'premeditated, targeted campaign' intended to ridicule and destroy his reputation." He further added, "the defendants cannot hide behind the...

Ranbir Kapoor to relaunch RK Studios with his directorial debut and collaborations with Ayan Mukerji, Deepika Padukone: Report

Actor Ranbir Kapoor is embarking on a heartfelt mission to revive the iconic RK Studios, originally established by his legendary grandfather Raj Kapoor, according to a report by Mid-Day. The revival is not just a business move but a tribute to the Kapoor family legacy, with Ranbir focusing on producing films that carry the spirit of RK Studios while infusing a modern voice to resonate with today’s audience. The report mentions that plans are well underway, with several scripts shortlisted and production anticipated to begin soon. As part of the revival, Ranbir aims to re-establish the studio as a prominent creative hub in Mumbai, possibly including an office space and screening theater to foster collaboration in the industry. The initiative also marks a continuation of his late father Rishi Kapoor’s dream to carry forward the family’s cinematic heritage. Alongside Ranbir’s directorial debut, the revived studio will back projects featuring some of Bollywood’s top talents, including col...

Red Chillies hits back at Sameer Wankhede’s plea against The Ba***ds of Bollywood; says his image was already subjected to scrutiny

Red Chillies Entertainment has filed its official reply to Sameer Wankhede’s defamation suit against The Ba***ds of Bollywood, the Netflix show he claims was designed to tarnish his reputation. Wankhede, the former NCB officer who led the 2021 drugs case involving Shah Rukh Khan’s son Aryan Khan, had approached the court alleging that the makers had portrayed a character resembling him in both appearance and mannerisms. In its response, Red Chillies Entertainment maintained that the series is a Bollywood satire, and all characters in it are depicted with deliberately exaggerated traits to heighten the humour. The production house argued that the complaint was an attempt to curtail artistic and creative freedom and described Wankhede’s stance as an instance of “hypersensitivity.” The reply further pointed out that Wankhede’s image had already been subject to widespread public scrutiny long before the show’s release. According to the filing, the former officer’s involvement in the Arya...

SCOOP: Amazon Prime Video bags Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1 for a staggering Rs. 110 cr; beats Netflix’s Rs. 100 cr offer

After making a mark in cinemas, Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1 will find its way on OTT, on October 31. Prominent streaming giant Amazon Prime Video will stream the film’s original Kannada version, as well as dubbed versions in Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam, for now. The Hindi version of the period drama will be released digitally a month later. Bollywood Hungama has learned of an interesting development that took place with regard to the digital deal. A source told Bollywood Hungama, “The makers of Kantara: A Legend Chapter – 1 asked for Rs. 125 crores for the OTT rights, considering the buzz around the film. They approached Netflix and it agreed to offer Rs. 100 crores. Meanwhile, Amazon Prime Video gave a better deal and offered Rs. 110 crores for the streaming rights. This is how the film has made its way on Prime Video.” This marks the second-highest OTT deal ever for a Kannada film. KGF - Chapter 2 (2022) still holds the top spot, with its digital rights fetching over Rs. 300 crore...

Jaya Bachchan on grandson Agastya Nanda in Ikkis: "He's determined to forge his own path just like I once did"

The Bachchan legacy continues as Agastya Nanda steps into the spotlight once again this time in Sriram Raghavan’s much-awaited war drama Ikkis. The film’s trailer introduces Agastya as Param Vir Chakra awardee Arun Khetarpal, one of India’s youngest and most celebrated war heroes. Directed by Sriram Raghavan, known for acclaimed thrillers like Ek Haseena Thi, Badlapur and Andhadhun, Ikkis brings to screen the extraordinary courage and humanity of a soldier who laid down his life in the 1971 war. The trailer hints at a sensitive and restrained take on patriotism a hallmark of Raghavan’s storytelling. The film also stars Dharmendra and Jaideep Ahlawat, with Agastya Nanda leading the narrative as the brave, idealistic officer whose story continues to inspire generations. A third-generation actor from the iconic Bachchan family, Agastya, son of Shweta Bachchan and grandson of Amitabh and Jaya Bachchan, who made his acting debut in Zoya Akhtar’s The Archies. With Ikkis, he takes a sharp t...

I won’t apologise for The Lost King – Leicester University’s treatment of Philippa Langley is a profound injustice | Steve Coogan

I was sued over my film that gave a voice to the committed ‘amateur’ whose pivotal role in the search for the remains of Richard III was drowned out by louder voices in academia About 15 years ago, Philippa Langley set out on a mission to find the remains of King Richard III, the last Plantagenet king of England. Almost everyone regarded this as an impossible task. His remains had gone undiscovered for more than 500 years. It was a folly, a fool’s errand. She was out of her depth, an amateur. No letters after her name. But Philippa diligently did the work and did her research. She had an inner conviction that she would find him, and she did. It was a staggering achievement, and yet when the news broke of this startling discovery, and it was beamed round the world, there was little to no mention of her. Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/4YOoyvH via IFTTT

EXCLUSIVE: Runtime Breakdown - First Half of Baahubali: The Epic is 1 hour 42 minutes, second half is over 2 Hours

This Friday will see the release of Baahubali: The Epic. It combines two Baahubali: The Beginning (2015) and Baahubali 2: The Conclusion (2017) into one part, as part of the tenth anniversary celebrations of the former. This is a novel experiment and has probably never been done before in the world. Some moviegoers and industry personalities doubted if viewers would rewatch a film that they have consumed repeatedly and that too in this unique form. However, the risk seems to have paid off. The advance booking down South and Overseas for the original Telugu audience is outstanding. It is common knowledge that Baahubali: The Epic has a run time of 3 hours and 45 minutes. Bollywood Hungama has now learned about the duration of the first half and second half of the film. A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “The pre-interval portion of Baahubali: The Epic is 1 hours 42 minutes and 33 seconds long. The second half is longer than 2 hours. The exact length of the second half is 2 hours, 3 ...

Ananya Panday’s 27th birthday to mark first look reveal of Tu Meri Main Tera…, trailer to drop on Kartik Aaryan’s big day: Report

Actress Ananya Panday is just a day away from turning 27 on October 30, 2025. While social media hints that her birthday celebrations have already begun, fans might also have a surprise waiting for them. As per the latest buzz, the first look of her upcoming film Tu Meri Main Tera, Main Tera Tu Meri is set to be unveiled on her birthday, followed by the trailer launch on co-star Kartik Aaryan’s 35th birthday, November 22. Yes, you read that right! A report by Mid-Day quoted a source saying, “The team wanted the first-look reveal to feel special, and Ananya’s birthday felt like the perfect occasion.” The insider further added, “Through their marketing strategy, the makers want to celebrate both leads—first Ananya with the poster, then Kartik with the trailer.” Meanwhile, Kartik recently opened up about reuniting with Ananya after Pati Patni Aur Woh. In a conversation with Hindustan Times, he said, “The film has shaped up beautifully; it’s got that perfect mix of heart, fun, and festiv...

Dia Mirza and Rahul Bhat team up for Kanwal Sethi’s next romantic drama

Actors Rahul Bhat and Dia Mirza are all set to share the screen for the first time in an untitled love story helmed by Indo-German filmmaker Kanwal Sethi. The upcoming film, produced by Kovid Gupta Films, is said to explore love and human emotions through a mature and soulful lens, blending poetic storytelling with contemporary realism. Rahul Bhat, known for his sharp script choices and impactful performances, continues to strengthen his reputation as one of Indian cinema’s most versatile actors. Following his acclaimed role in Black Warrant and his festival-favourite turn in Kennedy, Bhat will soon be seen in The Wives directed by Madhur Bhandarkar, as well as his Hollywood debut Lost & Found In Kumbh, alongside other upcoming projects. The film also marks a refreshing collaboration with Dia Mirza, whose grace and emotional authenticity have long resonated with audiences. Having consistently chosen meaningful and socially conscious projects, Dia brings her characteristic depth a...

Partner duo Salman Khan and Govinda to reunite for a new film after 18 years

Fans of Partner have reason to rejoice — Salman Khan and Govinda might soon share screen space again. After weeks of speculation, a source close to the development has confirmed that the two stars are indeed coming together for a new project. “Yes, Salman Khan and Govinda are coming together for a project. The film is currently in the early stages and yet to be titled. Details are being kept under wraps for now, but fans can definitely expect a grand reunion of this iconic duo,” the source revealed. The duo last worked together in David Dhawan’s 2007 comedy Partner, which became a massive box office hit and remains one of Bollywood’s most loved comedies. Their effortless chemistry and comic timing were widely appreciated, making them one of the most memorable on-screen pairs of that era. The news gained traction after Salman Khan recently hinted on an episode of Bigg Boss that a collaboration with Govinda might be on the cards. While no official announcement has been made yet, fans ...

Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc review – gore-soaked demonic anime squats in the manopshere

Tatsuki Fujimoto’s coming-of-age saga continues with a surreal encounter with a chainsaw-wielding demon living in a teenager’s soul Shortly after last month’s Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle – confirmed last weekend as the highest-grossing anime feature of all time – a big-screen outing for a movie adaptation of what, in manga terms, is a relative upstart: Tatsuki Fujimoto’s gore-soaked coming-of-age saga, first serialised in 2018. Standard critical guidance applies: what will doubtless be catnip for fans is likely to prove varyingly baffling for newcomers, arriving late to a frenetic game offering few chances for catchup. The latter camp might, however, cling to the Halloween-adjacent release date as a partial decryption device: Fujimoto’s teenage hero Denji (voiced by Kikunosuke Toya) has a chainsaw-wielding demon squatting in his soul, suggesting the twin influences of Tobe Hooper and Shinya Tsukamoto. The fallout from this will be, to coin a phrase, exaggerated – but the underlyin...

June Lockhart obituary

American stage and screen actor who enjoyed huge success on the television shows Lassie and Lost in Space June Lockhart, who has died aged 100, started her career in films, but made her name after switching almost exclusively to television. Having been given little chance to scintillate in the movies from her debut as a child in 1938 until 1947, she shone on the small screen in scores of popular series, above all in Lassie. Taking over from Cloris Leachman in 1958, Lockhart continued in the show until 1964. She played Ruth Martin, married to the farmer Paul Martin (Hugh Reilly), and the adoptive mother of seven-year-old Timmy Martin (Jon Provost), whose collie was the titular hero of the series. Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/D6ISrno via IFTTT

Writing Hawa review – Afghan woman fights for freedom as the Taliban close in

Najiba Noori’s thought-provoking documentary follows her mother, finally getting her chance at autonomy just as the Taliban retake the country Shot in Afghanistan shortly before the 2021 Taliban takeover, Najiba Noori’s thought-provoking debut juxtaposes the private transformation of a woman with the public unravelling of the nation. At age 13, Noori’s mother, Hawa, was married off to a man 30 years her senior. Now with grownup children, she can finally embark on her own mission: to learn how to read and write, and to open her own textile business. Even though supported by her family, Hawa’s hopes and dreams are suffused with melancholy; soon, even more draconian laws will be imposed on Afghan women. During the calm before the storm, Noori’s roving camera serves as a facilitator for intergenerational dialogue. With stunning candour, Hawa speaks of her unhappy married life, and her past desire to elope with another man. In a painful twist of fate, the cycle continues with Zahra, Hawa’...

Parvathy Thiruvothu to star in Don Palathara’s next directorial with Dileesh Pothan

National Award-winning actor Parvathy Thiruvothu is set to spearhead Don Palathara’s next directorial venture, co-starring the acclaimed filmmaker-actor Dileesh Pothan, in what promises to be one of Malayalam cinema’s most compelling creative unions. This project marks Parvathy’s first collaboration with Don Palathara and Dileesh Pothan, two of the most respected creative voices in Malayalam cinema today. Director Don Palathara's cinema is known for its subtle emotional layers and exploration of human relationships - a perfect match for Parvathy’s nuanced performances. Her co-star in the upcoming film - Dileesh Pothan is one of Malayalam cinema’s most formidable forces, an award-winning director and an actor praised for his restrained yet impactful screen presence. Though details about the storyline are currently under wraps, the film is touted to be an emotionally power-packed drama that will be shot extensively across Kerala and is set to go on floors soon. Parvathy says, ...

Did Pakistan designate Salman Khan a terrorist after Riyadh remarks? Here’s what we know!

Actor Salman Khan is at the center of a major international controversy after reportedly being declared a terrorist by the Balochistan government. The development follows his comments during an address at the Riyadh Forum, where he appeared to refer to Pakistan and Balochistan as separate countries—a statement that quickly went viral and sparked intense debate online.​ According to widely shared posts on social media platform X, it is alleged that the Balochistan government has added Salman Khan’s name to Pakistan’s ‘Fourth Schedule’ under the country’s Anti-Terrorism Act (1997). This schedule is used to monitor individuals suspected of connections to extremist or banned organizations. If Salman Khan’s name is indeed on the list, it would subject him to strict legal scrutiny, travel restrictions, and ongoing government vigilance. A notification dated October 16, 2025, attributed to social media user Nasir Azeem, has been circulated as evidence of the declaration. The document names S...

BREAKING: Max Marketing to present Zee Studios’ Marathi blockbuster Dasavatar in Malayalam, a first in Indian Cinema

In a groundbreaking move that redefines regional film exchange in India, Max Marketing has made cinematic history. The company will be presenting Zee Studios’ recent Marathi blockbuster Dasavatar for the first time ever in Malayalam cinemas — without dubbing the film into any major national language like Hindi or English. This marks a historic first in Indian cinema — where a regional film will be released directly in another regional language market, not as a Hindi or pan-India version, but as a culturally rooted cinematic experience intended for another linguistic audience. Directed by Subodh Khanolkar and produced by Ocean Film Company and Ocean Art House, Dasavatar will hit Malayalam cinema screens on November 21, 2025. This unprecedented initiative bridges India’s vibrant regional film industries in a way never attempted before. For decades, cross-regional film releases have almost always passed through a national filter — either dubbed in Hindi or adapted for pan-India audienc...

SCOOP: Rs. 20 crores spent on the GRAND Bhediya scene in Thamma; was shot under Amar Kaushik’s supervision

The grand Diwali release Thamma is a part of the much-loved Maddock Horror Comedy Universe and hence, it was expected that characters from the earlier films will make it in the Ayushmann Khurrana-starrer. Way back in July, Bollywood Hungama had revealed that Varun Dhawan appears in the film, reprising the role of Bhediya. We also stated that the actor shot for 6 days and the scene in question would be a visual spectacle. Bollywood Hungama has now stumbled upon some fascinating details. A source told us, “The makers decided to go all out with the scene of Betaal vs Bhediya. Hence, a mind-boggling amount of Rs. 20 crores was spent just on that sequence. Producer Dinesh Vijan was clear – the fight scene should have top-class VFX that should stun the viewers. After all, the scene is very crucial for the future of the universe.” The source further said, “Amar Kaushik, the founder and mentor of the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe, serves as the producer of Thamma. But for the crucial scene ...

EXCLUSIVE: Has Paresh Rawal signed Drishyam 3? Actor clarifies, “Not true. The makers did approach me…its script is VERY good…”

Drishyam (2015) was a box office success, and as the years passed, it developed a cult following. This resulted in a fabulous opening for Drishyam 2 (2022), shocking the trade and industry. As the film emerged as a blockbuster, all eyes are now on Drishyam 3. It's all set to release on October 2, 2026 and the film was in the news recently after it was reported that Paresh Rawal might be a part of the cast. However, it turns out that the veteran actor has not signed Drishyam 3. Bollywood Hungama exclusively spoke to him recently and when asked if he has bagged a role in the thriller as speculated, he replied, “No, I have not. There’s no truth to these reports at all.” Was he offered a role in Drishyam 3? Paresh Rawal said, “Yes, the makers did approach me. But I didn’t feel that the rule was suitable for me. Maza nahin aaya (on reading about my part).” Paresh Rawal added, “But the script is very good. I was really impressed. But even in a compelling script, you need a role that y...

Bhushan Kumar and Sandeep Reddy Vanga teases Prabhas’ Spirit on his birthday

Director Sandeep Reddy Vanga dropped a special birthday surprise for rebel star Prabhas, giving fans a glimpse into their much-awaited collaboration, Spirit, backed by producer Bhushan Kumar. The gesture has stirred excitement across the industry, with anticipation now running high for this powerful duo’s next venture. On the occasion of Prabhas’s birthday, the Animal director unveiled what he called a “Sound Story” an audio teaser that introduces the tone and atmosphere of Spirit in an innovative way. Sharing the announcement on social media, Vanga wrote, “Happy Birthday Prabhas anna. Presenting a ‘SOUND-STORY’ in five Indian languages straight from the heart, for every fan who’s felt his…” The “Sound Story” opens with a prison sequence where a jailer instructs his team to treat a former police officer-turned-prisoner like any other inmate. The moment that captured everyone’s attention is when Prabhas’s voice calmly declares, “Sir, since childhood I have one bad habit.” Backed by ...

Sunny Deol announces new film Ikka, unveils first look motion poster

Sunny Deol has set social media alight with the announcement of his next venture titled Ikka, unveiling a gripping motion poster that promises a hard-hitting cinematic experience. On his Instagram page, Sunny shared the motion poster along with the caption, “Naa koi ghulam, naa koi badshah sirf IKKA.” The phrase immediately set the tone suggesting a story of resistance, authority and personal power.   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Sunny Deol (@iamsunnydeol) The first look arrives soon after Sunny also announced another film, Gabru, which is slated for release in theatres on 13 March 2026. While details such as cast and storyline for Ikka are still under wraps, the poster has already become a talking point among fans and media alike. Actress Ameesha Patel responded to the reveal by commenting simply, “Handsomee.” Sunny, whose recent revival in the blockbuster Gadar 2 reaffirmed his action-hero credentials, appears to be returning to his forte with Ikka. G...

EXCLUSIVE: Shakti Shalini goes on floors in January 2026; Amar Kaushik explains how Aneet Padda came on board, “We saw Saiyaara and knew that she perfectly…”

Before the audience sat down to watch the grand Diwali release, Thamma, they were treated to a 60-second-long announcement promo for Shakti Shalini. The film earlier starred Kiara Advani and there were reports that Aneet Padda of Saiyaara (2025) fame has replaced the former. The announcement teaser confirmed the speculations and also revealed that the next film of the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe will be out on December 24, 2026. In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama, Amar Kaushik, the mentor of the universe and also the producer of Munjya (2024) and Thamma, opened up about this film. Earlier, the plan was to bring 2 more films of Maddock Horror Comedy Universe, namely Bhediya 2 and Chamunda, in cinemas in 2026. When asked if the plan remains or will Shakti Shalini be the sole release of the universe next year, Amar Kaushik said, “There might be just one film (from the universe in 2026). We feel that there should not be an overdose and we should not give too many films in...

Boman Irani pens heartfelt tribute to late actor Asrani: “His commitment to the camera will remain with me forever”

Veteran actor and filmmaker Govardhan Asrani, fondly known as Asrani, passed away in Mumbai on October 20 after a prolonged illness. He was 84. Remembered for his impeccable comic timing and a career spanning over five decades, Asrani’s passing has left the Indian film fraternity mourning the loss of a true legend. Among the many who paid their respects was actor Boman Irani, who took to social media to share a heartfelt note about his recent experience of working with the late actor. Reflecting on their time together, Irani revealed that they had collaborated just ten days before Asrani’s passing. In his post, Irani wrote, “Around ten days ago, I had the privilege of working with Asrani ji for the first time. For the shot, I was meant to be injured and on the floor. He, the doctor, had to rush in and help me. While he needed a little help in the dark walking around the crowded set, the magical word ‘action’ had another meaning for him.” The actor went on to describe how Asrani, des...

Regretting You review – sudsy Colleen Hoover adaptation is no It Ends with Us

The second big screen take on one of the hugely successful author’s trauma dramas is a bland misfire and wastes Girls actor Allison Williams in the lead It’s hard to remember now, nearly a year into the legal and reputational slugfest that is Justin Baldoni v Blake Lively , that It Ends With Us , the film at the heart of so much litigious mudslinging – predominantly and relentlessly, it should be noted, by Baldoni’s legal team – was a Hollywood success story. The first big-screen adaptation of bestselling author Colleen Hoover, an initially self-published romance writer catapulted by BookTok to cult-figure status under the mononym CoHo, successfully elevated what many have dismissed as trauma porn fetishizing abuse into glossy, but effective and emotionally mature, adult theatrical fare. Lively, a Taylor Swift-adjacent style icon (to some) who excels at warm-hearted melodrama, was the perfect anchor for a film targeting what celebrity gossip columnist Elaine Lui termed the “miniva...

The Hand That Rocks the Cradle review – serviceable 90s thriller remake

There are some smart updates to the psycho-nanny hit, but without the searing presence of Rebecca De Mornay, this one is unlikely to stick around for quite so long The yuppie-in-peril thriller, a multiplex mainstay throughout the late 80s and early 90s, tried to expose the vulnerabilities of our day-to-day, suggesting that danger could emerge from anyone and anywhere. It could be a co-worker (The Temp, Disclosure), a spouse (Sleeping With the Enemy, Dream Lover), a lover (Fatal Attraction, Don’t Talk to Strangers), a lodger (Pacific Heights, Single White Female), a parent (Mother’s Boys, Benefit of the Doubt), even a child (The Good Son, The Crush), a subgenre that insisted we maintain militant in spaces we’d assumed were safe. One of the era’s most creepily effective examples was Curtis Hanson’s The Hand That Rocks the Cradle, because it played on a specifically awful fear for parents – that the person you’d entrusted to protect your child had a nefarious agenda. Rebecca De Mornay’s...

Diablo review – Scott Adkins enters Cormac McCarthy territory in over-the-border revenge thriller

Its deranged antagonist might be an Anton Chigurh rip-off, but some fantastically flailing fight scenes almost lift this otherwise humdrum action romp No Country for Old Men’s Anton Chigurh was the scariest thing to come out of Latin America since Argentinian inflation. So it’s taken a surprisingly long time to see a direct imitator: the dark-clad avenger El Corvo, played here by Marko Zaror. Not only does he have the gauche coiffuring (bald on top this time), but also the philosophical penchant, asking imminent victims if they’ve given themselves a present recently. If the Cormac McCarthy rip-off wasn’t enough, Ernesto Díaz Espinoza’s ponderous thriller also gives El Corvo a couple of scenes lifted from The Terminator, and the villain from Enter the Dragon’s blade-hand for good measure. Diablo isn’t all cliches though: martial arts multitool Scott Adkins has a potentially interesting role inverting the usual over-the-border revenge mission. He plays former bank robber Kris, who’s be...

BREAKING: Aneet Padda’s Shakti Shalini to release on December 24, 2026

Bollywood Hungama was among the first ones to confirm that Aneet Padda, who became a nationwide sensation with Saiyaara (2025), has replaced Kiara Advani in Shakti Shalini. On October 19, we also brought to you the news that Shakti Shalini’s announcement video is attached with Thamma, the grand Diwali release. And now, we bring to you another exciting update from the film. It has come to light that Shakti Shalini will release in cinemas on December 24, 2026. Just like Thamma, Shakti Shalini also belongs to the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe. The blockbuster franchise began with Stree (2018) followed by Bhediya (2022). Munjya (2024) came next and it was a sleeper super-hit. Stree 2 (2024) emerged as the highest Bollywood grosser of all time. Thamma is the fifth film of the universe. When Shakti Shalini starred Kiara Advani, the plan was to release it on December 31, 2025. With the Aneet Padda-starrer having moved to 2026, it means that three films of the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe...

‘I said goodbye to Heath Ledger at this urinal’: a stroll round Terry Gilliam’s pivotal places

The studio where he crashed the Life of Brian spaceship, the stage where he put on a Faust that caused fights, the pub where he last spoke to Heath Ledger … the ex-Python takes a hilarious and evocative stroll down memory lane Down an alley in Covent Garden, on a building that was once a banana warehouse, there is a blue plaque. “Monty Python, Film Maker, Lived Here, 1976-1987,” reads the inscription. It’s easy to miss: the plaque is not at eye level as they normally are, but up on the first floor, almost as if the blue plaque committee lost confidence in their uncharacteristic joke. Or perhaps John Cleese put it up. Terry Gilliam arrives. I like his jacket. It looks like it’s been stitched together from bits of blankets. “Me too,” he says. “I got it 30 years ago in a secondhand store in New York.” We’re going to wander around London, revisiting places that have played significant parts in his career, as he approaches his 85th birthday. Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian...

Story of Indigenous activist’s murder takes top prize at London film festival

Jury says documentary about killing of Argentinian campaigner Javier Chocobar brings ‘a measure of the justice’ denied by the courts A documentary about the murder of the Indigenous activist Javier Chocobar has taken the top prize at the London film festival, with the jury calling it “a measure of the justice” that has long been denied by the courts. The Argentine film-maker Lucrecia Martel’s first documentary, Landmarks, won the best film award in the festival’s official competition, it was announced on Sunday. Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/M6stjEV via IFTTT

Wilfred Buck review – rewarding life of Indigenous American astronomer laid out in the stars

This hybrid documentary about the Cree astronomer offers evocative, poetic insight into a formidable community leader For Cree astronomer Wilfred Buck, the stars hold an immense power that extends beyond the realm of science. Coming from an Indigenous group whose stories have been systematically effaced by official narratives, he looks to these clustered dots of light as both historical document and spiritual manifestation. Echoing Buck’s holistic approach to astronomy, Lisa Jackson’s hybrid documentary draws from a wealth of eclectic visual styles, all woven into a stunning portrait of a formidable community elder. Someone always on the go, Buck is often seen behind the wheel, heading from one job to another. Speaking at academic conferences and workshops, and leading lectures and presentations for young students, he not only makes astronomy accessible but also builds lasting connections between different generations. This sense of togetherness is especially touching considering Buc...

Ayan Mukerji steps back from Dhoom 4; shifts his focus on Brahmastra 2 with Ranbir Kapoor & Alia Bhatt

After the debacle of War 2, director Ayan Mukerji has decided to take a backseat as the director of Dhoom 4. Sources close to the development confirm that Ayan has backed off from Dhoom 4 and, in a closed-door conversation with Aditya Chopra, conveyed his reservation. "Ayan believes that films like War 2 and Dhoom 4 were never meant for him, and he wants to do something a lot wider with scope for romance, drama with spectacle vibes and storytelling," an insider told Bollywood Hungama. The insider informed Bollywood Hungama, "Ayan was just executing what was written on paper by Shridhar Raghavan, and had little say on the script and screenplay. He does not want to be on another journey of just execution, as he is a passionate filmmaker who prefers to exclusively work on the written material and bring more to the screen than what's written." The source also confirms that the decision to step back from Dhoom 4 has been taken after a series of conversations with A...

Rajesh Khanna-Dimple Kapadia’s granddaughter Naomika Saran to be launched opposite Vedang Raina

The third generation of the illustrious Khanna family is all set to enter the movie industry. Yesteryears’ superstar Rajesh Khanna and Dimple Kapadia’s granddaughter Naomika Saran will make her screen debut in film being produced by Dinesh Vijan of Maddock Films. Naomika is the daughter of Rajesh and Dimple’s younger daughter Rinke Khanna who was once an aspiring actress in Filmistan. Rinke did films like Pyar Mein Kabhi Kabhi and Jis Desh Ganga Mein Rehta Hai. When she was removed by Ram Gopal Varma from his film Company and replaced by Manisha Koirala, Rinke quite the film industry, got married and migrated to the West. Now, her daughter is all set to rekindle the Khanna magic on screen. Naomika’s co-star in her debut film is the talented Vedang Raina, Alia Bhatt’s co-star in Jigra, currently shooting for a film with Imtiaz Ali in Punjab. Also Read: Naomika Saran, Rajesh Khanna’s granddaughter, to debut in romantic comedy opposite Vedang...

‘Why are our black boys hurting each other?’ Letitia Wright on the deaths that inspired her directorial debut

The Black Panther star made her name with intense roles in indie films before Marvel came calling. Now she’s telling her own stories, starting with a cast of ‘young kings’ Days before we meet, Letitia Wright found herself cheek-by-jowl with a far-right march in London. This is the year when St George’s flags have been displayed in suburban windows and tied to lamp-posts, and when thousands of people – some more intimidating than others, especially to people of colour – have marched on the centre of the capital and beyond. A friend of Wright’s was visiting the city, and they had moseyed down to the South Bank, unaware of what awaited them. “It was jam-packed,” she says, recalling their struggle to get out of the fray. “I  was in the middle of it, and then I was out of it. They were doing their thing – and I was doing mine.” The actor has played refugees twice: once in the BBC Three drama Glasgow Girls , where she portrayed a Somali teenager, Amal, and then in the 2022 film Aisha,...

Giant review – Prince Naseem biopic with Pierce Brosnan on hand misses the punch

London film festival Despite the odd laugh, the story of the boxer’s path from Sheffield gyms to global stardom and his break with mentor Brendan Ingle feels dramatically underweight There’s a really good cast here, in a movie with a real-life story to tell: how Irish boxing trainer Brendan Ingle mentored a cheeky Sheffield kid from migrant Yemeni parents, “Prince” Naseem Hamed, teaching him to stand up to racist bullies and turning him into a media-friendly world champ in the late 90s, nurturing his showboating arrogance and his lethal fists. But, after becoming wealthy, Hamed brattishly turned against Ingle, cutting him out of the action, and turning him into a combination of John Falstaff and Broadway Danny Rose. Pierce Brosnan plays Ingle; Amir El-Masry is Hamed and Toby Stephens is bullish London promoter Frank Warren who saw the goldmine that Ingle had discovered. But the movie frankly lacks the Prince’s fancy footwork: the boxing sequences run smoothly but the all-important dr...

Ayushmann Khurrana, Sara Ali Khan, Wamiqa Gabbi and Rakul Preet Singh starrer Pati Patni Aur Woh Do to release on Holi, first poster unveiled

Bollywood is gearing up for a star-studded treat next year as the first poster and announcement of Pati Patni Aur Woh Do has been unveiled. The film brings together an ensemble cast of Ayushmann Khurrana, Sara Ali Khan, Wamiqa Gabbi, and Rakul Preet Singh in what promises to be a fun, dramatic, and entertaining ride. Directed by the popular filmmaker Mudassar Aziz, Pati Patni Aur Woh Do introduces audiences to the world of Prajapati Pandey, setting the stage for a quirky, vibrant narrative filled with drama, comedy, and romance. The makers have confirmed that the film is scheduled to release on Holi, 4 March 2026, marking a perfect festive launch that aligns with the film’s colourful and lively theme.   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by tseriesfilms (@tseriesfilms) The film is produced by Bhushan Kumar and Renu Ravi Chopra, with creative production led by Juno Chopra. Industry insiders suggest that the combination of Ayushmann’s impeccable comic timing, Sara’...

Zaira Wasim ties the knot in an intimate wedding ceremony; see pics

Actress Zaira Wasim has officially announced her marriage. She took to Instagram to share the joyous news with the caption, “Qubool hai x3.” The post featured two serene glimpses from her wedding ceremony, one showing her signing the nikah papers adorned in henna and jewelry, and another capturing her and her husband from behind, gazing at the full moon, symbolizing a sacred new beginning. Zaira, who stepped away from the film industry in 2019 citing her spiritual journey, made a rare social media appearance to share the personal milestone. She did not reveal her husband’s identity or show his face, choosing to maintain the privacy she has long valued. Dressed in a red embroidered bridal ensemble with golden detailing, Zaira looked every bit the traditional bride in a ceremony that seemed intimate and elegant.   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Zaira Wasim (@zairawasim_) Fans and well-wishers flooded the comments section with blessings and congratulatory mes...

EXCLUSIVE: CBFC reduces kissing scene in Thamma by 5 seconds; replaces ‘Azaadi doonga’ with ‘Aiyaashi karata hoon’

Three days are left for the release of the grand Diwali biggie, Thamma, and the excitement is gradually building up. The makers, Maddock Films, completed the censor process on time and in this article, Bollywood Hungama will exclusively focus on the cuts suffered by the horror comedy. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) asked for audio cuts in three places and one visual modification as well. The word 'Alexander' was replaced with ‘Sikandar’. In another dialogue, the word ‘Ashwathama’ was muted. In the second half of the film, the words 'Azaadi doonga' were replaced with 'Aiyaashi karata hoon'. The Examining Committee also asked the makers to ‘reduce the slurping sound of drinking blood to minimum’. Finally, a kissing scene in the second half was reduced by 30%, that is, by 5 seconds. The last modification may dampen the excitement of the moviegoers but on the positive side, this is the shortest intimacy cut asked by the CBFC in recent times. In Su...

Neurodiverse collective wins award for ‘creative audacity’ at London film festival

The BFI and Chanel film-maker awards were won by a docufiction film, a queer BDSM biker romance and a film about police corruption in India An experimental feature film co-created by a collective of autistic artists, a queer biker romance, and a film about police corruption in India are the winners of this year’s BFI and Chanel film-maker awards. The awards, which champion “creative audacity” and ambition, come with a £20,000 prize for the three sets of winners. Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/Hmv6jZy via IFTTT

EXCLUSIVE: Thamma vs Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat screen-sharing battle begins; makers of Ayushmann Khurrana-starrer demand ALL shows in single and two-screen cinemas

The much-anticipated Diwali releases, Thamma and Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat, are just days away, and the excitement across the trade, industry, and audiences is palpable. As with every major festive clash, the battle for screens has intensified. Bollywood Hungama has learned that the first round of this tussle between the distributors of both films has already begun. A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “Thamma, starring Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna, is being distributed by PVR Inox Pictures. Its distributor-partner in the Mumbai circuit, August Entertainment, has sent a mail to cinemas in the territory informing them about their screen-sharing requirements. They have asked for all shows in single-screen cinemas and two screen theatres. They have also asked for 12 shows in three-screen multiplexes; it means 100% showcasing in two of the three screens and a show or two in the third screen as well.” The mail from August Entertainment further states that they want 15 shows o...

Deepika Padukone becomes Meta AI’s first Indian voice, joins global roster including Awkwafina, Judi Dench and more!

Deepika Padukone has created history by becoming the first Indian to lend her voice to Meta AI, the virtual assistant integrated into Meta’s ecosystem, including the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, joining the list of the global lineup of voices for the AI assistant, including Hollywood celebrities Awkwafina, Judi Dench, etc. The collaboration marks a powerful intersection of technology and culture, positioning Deepika as a bridge between global innovation and Indian identity. Meta announced that users in India will now be able to interact with Meta AI through Deepika’s voice, available in Indian English. Alongside this, the company introduced full Hindi language support and UPI Lite payments, making the experience more localised and personal. Yet, the biggest talking point remains Deepika’s voice — warm, poised, and unmistakably familiar. Known for her global influence and grounded presence, Deepika brings authenticity and emotion to a space often dominated by synthetic tones. Her voice...

‘Theatre is an elitist artform for privileged people’: Daniel Day-Lewis talks class, cinema and his crush on Mary Poppins

Speaking at the London film festival, the triple Oscar-winner mounted a fierce defence of movies and method acting, although he conceded My Left Foot couldn’t be made today The actor Daniel Day-Lewis railed against audiences being priced out of theatres, and what he perceived as a continued snobbery concerning cinema in the UK at an event at the London film festival. Speaking to the critic Mark Kermode for a lengthy conversation in front of an audience at the BFI Southbank, Day-Lewis said he felt “there’s still an elitism in this country that theatre is the superior form”. His drama training at the Bristol Old Vic school had encouraged in him the sense that theatre work was the goal. “Then there’s films: bit dodgy. Television: like, really? OK, you gotta pay the gas bill. That was the thinking. Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/iFf2R3C via IFTTT

Ranveer Singh ignites the screen in his fiercest avatar; fans go wild over his ‘Agent’ mode transformation

Ranveer Singh has done it again — setting the internet ablaze with his most intense and electrifying look to date. The superstar, known for constantly reinventing himself, has unveiled a new avatar that’s all grit, command, and raw power. Dressed in full combat gear, his expression steely and unrelenting, Ranveer looks like a man on a mission — focused, fearless, and ready for war. The newly released stills and short clips have left fans speculating about what exactly this project could be. While official details remain tightly under wraps, industry chatter suggests that this could either be a high-octane film or a big-budget brand commercial that’s part of a larger cinematic-style universe. What’s certain, though, is that this reveal marks the beginning of something massive. Adding to the intrigue is the star-studded combination at the center of it all. The project brings together Ranveer Singh, Bobby Deol, and Sreeleela — an unexpected yet thrilling trio sharing the screen for the ...

Akshay Kumar moves Bombay High Court to protect his personality rights amid AI deepfake threat

Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar has approached the Bombay High Court seeking protection of his personality rights, becoming the latest A-list actor to take legal recourse amid growing concerns over the unauthorised use of celebrity identities through artificial intelligence and deepfake technology. The matter will be heard by the court on Wednesday. According to reports, the actor has filed a suit to safeguard his name, image, voice, likeness and overall persona from misuse by unknown individuals and digital entities. The move comes shortly after fellow actor Hrithik Roshan filed a similar plea before the Delhi High Court to protect his personal and digital identity from unauthorised commercial use. The issue of AI-generated deepfakes and digitally manipulated content has become a serious concern in the entertainment industry, with several high-profile figures recently turning to the courts for relief. Earlier this month, Justice Arif Doctor of the Bombay High Court granted interim ...

Hrithik Roshan moves Delhi High Court to protect his personality rights amid rising AI misuse

Hrithik Roshan has moved the Delhi High Court by filing a petition seeking safeguards for his name, image, likeness and other aspects of his persona against unauthorised commercial use and misuse. This comes days after veteran playback singer Kumar Sanu sought legal protection for his personality rights, and the matter is expected to be heard on Wednesday, according to a report by Bar and Bench. With the increasing use of generative AI and deepfake technologies, several Indian celebrities have been turning to the courts to protect their digital and personal identities. Hrithik joins a growing list of public figures — including Amitabh Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Jackie Shroff, Anil Kapoor, Abhishek Bachchan, Kumar Sanu, and even the late Ratan Tata — who have sought injunctions to prevent unauthorised exploitation of their name or likeness, often through AI-generated content. Personality rights, also known as publicity rights, give individuals legal control over how their name,...

Drew Struzan, poster designer for Star Wars and Indiana Jones films, dies aged 78

Artist behind posters for Harry Potter, The Thing and Back to the Future had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease Designer Drew Struzan, known for some of the most iconic movie posters of all time, has died aged 78. His work included posters for films such as Back to the Future, The Empire Strikes Back, The Goonies, The Shawshank Redemption, The Thing and Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/Kvbx6XG via IFTTT

Siddhant Chaturvedi’s Netflix film Ramree, backed by Ajay Devgn, shelved due to budget constraints: Report

After earning acclaim for his performance in Dhadak 2, Siddhant Chaturvedi seemed set to continue his momentum with Ramree, a two-hero OTT project backed by Ajay Devgn. However, the ambitious period drama has now reportedly been shelved before going on floors. According to a report by Mid-Day, Ramree was conceived as a large-scale film set in 1945. The project, which had been under development for over a year, aimed to blend historical events with cinematic storytelling. However, given its elaborate setting and production requirements, the film’s mounting budget became a major hurdle. A source close to the development told the publication, “For an OTT film, this would have set a benchmark in scale and imagination, but budget constraints caught up with it. Even though the platform heads were excited about the story, there was too much at stake financially. So, they decided not to move forward with it.” Another insider offered a different perspective, suggesting that Ramree never reac...

‘I lost a friend of almost 40 years’: Nancy Meyers pays tribute to Diane Keaton

Film-maker who directed Keaton in Something’s Gotta Give, and wrote Baby Boom and Father of the Bride, says ‘we have lost a giant’ Film-maker Nancy Meyers has paid tribute to the late Diane Keaton, her “friend of almost 40 years” and collaborator on celebrated comedies Something’s Gotta Give, Baby Boom and Father of the Bride. On Monday, Meyers wrote on Instagram that she’d had a difficult 48 hours since Keaton’s death was announced on Saturday, but “seeing all of your tributes to Diane has been a comfort.” Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/TFc820j via IFTTT

Our Fault review – ultra-glossy Spanish step-sibling melodrama is too bland to be annoying

Third film adapted from the romance novels by Mercedes Ron, originally written in Spanish, feels clunky and cliched This is the third film in a series, after My Fault in 2023 and Your Fault in 2024 , that have been adapted from the Culpable trilogy, romance novels by Mercedes Ron, originally written in Spanish. It’s obviously aimed at a specific market that expects a certain blend of melodrama, softcore sex and lush lifestyle porn, and (more importantly) is invested already in the trilogy’s story. Given those parameters, it probably delivers – although the dialogue, at least judging by the subtitles, is super clunky and cliched. Complete outsiders coming to this cold may be a little baffled by what’s going on, since this concluding instalment makes no effort to fill in any blanks. But even total newbies will get the gist that heroine Noah (Nicole Wallace) still has feelings for her ex Nick (Gabriel Guevara) – who also, somewhat disturbingly, was once her stepbrother, although their ...