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Showing posts from June, 2026

A look back at Sam Neill's versatile acting career – video obituary

Sam Neill, the New Zealand actor whose career spanned five decades, has died at the age of 78. From Oscar winners to blockbusters such as The Piano and Jurassic Park, Neill built a career playing dashing romantic leads and charismatic villains across film and television Sam Neill’s 20 best performances A life in pictures ‘A true gentleman’: actors, directors and leaders pay tribute to Sam Neill Obituary Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/HNyWTGn via IFTTT

Gaurav Khanna breaks silence on Akanksha Chamola divorce rumours; says, “Main humesha support karunga Akanksha ko, meri biwi hai yaar”

Actor and Bigg Boss 19 winner Gaurav Khanna has finally reacted to the ongoing speculation surrounding his personal life after his wife, Akanksha Chamola, made a startling revelation on the stage of Lock Upp Season 2. Before entering the reality show's prison, Akanksha claimed that she and Gaurav have been living separately for over a year and are currently in the process of getting divorced, leaving fans surprised. Amid the buzz surrounding their relationship, Gaurav has chosen to focus on extending his support to Akanksha and her participation in the reality show. The actor was recently spotted outside the sets of the comedy-cooking reality show Laughter Chefs, where paparazzi asked him about how he has been coping with the ongoing attention around his personal life. Responding to the questions, Gaurav said, “Bas yaar, wahi yaar jo pehle tha wahi haal hai abhi bhi. Pyaar abhi bhi utna hai, support abhi bhi utna hai… Main toh humesha support karunga Akanksha ko, meri biwi hai yaa...

‘Get away from there – run!’ The stunning film about love blossoming amid the carnage of Aleppo

Birds of War is an award-winning docudrama in which its own directors fall in love while reporting the horrors in Syria. They explain why they needed a psychotherapist to complete it The air is thick with smoke and dust, the ground littered with the twisted remains of burning vehicles. Children scream and sirens blare as activist and videographer Abd Alkader Habak rushes to help the injured after the bombing of an evacuee convoy in Aleppo at the height of Syria’s civil war in 2017. A voice note bubble pops up on Habak’s phone screen. “My bird are you OK?” says BBC journalist Janay Boulos. “Get away from there, run.” For more than a year, Habak and Boulos have been working to document Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad ’s atrocities against his own people, their connection deepening all the time despite the physical distance. But this exchange represents the moment the pair’s relationship shifts from colleagues to something more. “I don’t want footage,” Boulos says, fear clearly detectable...

Enola Holmes 3 review – Netflix mystery franchise is starting to lose steam

Millie Bobby Brown returns, along with the creative team behind Adolescence, for an often thoughtful yet ultimately lesser threequel Despite the ever-increasing size and dominance of Netflix, the streamer has continued to struggle with its most obvious aim. While viewers might flock there for smooth-brained dating shows, tawdry true crime, Harlan Coben thrillers and junky romcoms, the platform is yet to be known for creating original movie franchises, the bread and butter of most old-fashioned Hollywood studios, for better or worse. The problem Netflix often faces is that to turn a big-budget bet into a cultural event, it requires more than a low-stakes click at home and a brief weekend’s worth of chatter. Big numbers might have met wannabe franchise-starters Red Notice and The Grey Man but a lack of real long-term interest has meant that sequels haven’t followed, while its most expensive film ever, Chris Pratt vehicle The Electric State, sank with both audiences and critics. It’s why ...

Executioner review – sleazy MP hams it up with sex worker in darkly comic blackmail thriller

Based on actor-director Peter Benedict’s own play this tiny-budget thriller has the feel of a stagey recording as the double-crosses pile up higher than an MP’s promises The fictional shadow cabinet minister at the centre of this darkly comic blackmail thriller is offended when the male prostitute he has hired describes his reputation as “colourful”. Colourful MPs support bloodsports and wear bow ties, he says; he prefers the term “maverick”. It’s never said out loud, but clearly he sits on the right in political terms; you can tell from the sneer in his voice as he utters the word “proletariat”. Executioner is adapted by Peter Benedict from his play Deadlock, with a staginess that feels a bit much for the screen. Benedict also co-directs and stars as the MP, called Robert Marlowe, giving a lip-smacking performance that makes Hannibal Lecter look like a character from kitchen sink realism. The entire film is set in the basement studio of Marlowe’s country pile, where he dabbles in pott...

Priyadarshan confirms he is not part of Hera Pheri 3 after Firoz Nadiadwala's clarification; says film's future remains uncertain

Filmmaker Priyadarshan has confirmed that he is not associated with Hera Pheri 3, shortly after producer Firoz Nadiadwala clarified that the veteran director is not involved in the much-awaited comedy sequel. While Nadiadwala maintained that the project is progressing in the right direction, Priyadarshan offered a more cautious outlook, stating that the film's future remains uncertain due to legal and personal issues. Firoz Nadiadwala says Priyadarshan is not part of the film During an interview with Variety India, producer Firoz Nadiadwala was asked about Priyadarshan's reported association with Hera Pheri 3. Dismissing the speculation, he said, "No, Priyadarshan is not part of it." Sharing an update on the film's progress, the producer added, "Things are on track and moving in the right direction." Hera Pheri 3 has witnessed several delays and changes in direction over the years, leading to frequent speculation surrounding its development. While Nadi...

Kareena Kapoor Khan joins MINI family; becomes face of MINI Countryman C campaign

Actor Kareena Kapoor Khan has entered into a new association with luxury automobile brand MINI. The company announced that the Bollywood star has joined the MINI family and become a part of the MINI Inner Circle, marking the beginning of her journey with the MINI Countryman C. The announcement brings together one of India's most recognised film personalities with a brand known for its distinctive design and driving experience. According to MINI, the partnership reflects a shared identity built around confidence, individuality and style. Sharing the news on social media, MINI wrote, "What happens when two icons with a bold personality share one frame? The real fun begins.” Their caption further read, “We're thrilled to welcome @KareenaKapoorKhan into the MINI inner circle as she finds her perfect companion in the MINI Countryman C, the SUV of MINI. More space. More character. Unmistakable MINI attitude 👏 / A partnership built on individuality.”   View this post on Instag...

Fragments of Ice review – fascinating chronicle of Soviet collapse through the lens of a Ukrainian ice skater

Film-maker Maria Stoianova mines her father’s video diaries from the 1980s and 90s to document the decline of communism – and his obsession with western shopping malls Here is an interesting film which does not render up its meaning easily: a personal piece about memory, and an enigmatic essay about the decline and fall of the Soviet Union as it was experienced by one family in Ukraine, based entirely on home-movie video footage. It is innocent and transparent, and yet subtly encumbered by the sadness of history. I can imagine Adam Curtis quoting this in its entirety for some new compilation about the post-communist 20th century. Film-maker Maria Stoianova presents us with video clips shot by her dad, Mykhailo Stoianov, an ice skater and ice dancer with the Ukrainian national ice ballet company who, throughout the communist 1980s and into the new era, toured the US, Canada, the Middle East and western Europe. (Mykhailo even played Blackpool in the UK.) The skaters were a privileged cul...

Yash Raj Films partners with Rusk Media to develop next-generation digital entertainment IP

On June 29, 2026, Yash Raj Films (YRF) announced a strategic investment in Rusk Media, one of India’s leading digital-first entertainment companies that specialises in original vertical storytelling IPs for Gen Z and Gen Alpha audiences. The investment backs Rusk Media’s vision to build the next generation of enduring digital IP for India and the world. Under the partnership, YRF will oversee the creative direction of original animation and vertical micro-drama IP, while Rusk Media will produce and distribute the content through its proprietary Alright! TV platform and global digital channels. The collaboration aims at fuelling YRF & Rusk Media’s shared ambition of establishing India as a creative force in the vertical entertainment economy through original IPs across animation and vertical micro-drama, distributed across Rusk Media’s proprietary Alright! TV platform and global digital channels. Akshaye Widhani, CEO, Yash Raj Films, said: “The instinct to evolve has always been ce...

Shraddha Kapoor's Eetha sparks title row: NCP and Vithabai Narayangaonkar's family seek title change

Shraddha Kapoor's upcoming film Eetha has landed in controversy even before its theatrical release. While the recently unveiled teaser drew appreciation for the actress's transformation into legendary Lavani and Tamasha artist Vithabai Narayangaonkar, the film's title has now become the subject of criticism. After the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) questioned why the biographical drama was not named after Vithabai Narayangaonkar, members of the late folk icon's family have also urged the makers to reconsider the title and rename the film in her honour. NCP questions the choice of title According to a report by TV9 Marathi, the NCP's Film and Cultural Department has objected to the title Eetha, arguing that a film based on the life of Vithabai Narayangaonkar should carry her name. The party has suggested that titles such as Vitha or Vithabai would be more appropriate and would acknowledge her immense contribution to Maharashtra's Lavani and Tamasha traditions....

‘We’re up against forces that have all the money in the world’: Erin Brockovich on her battle against AI datacentres

In 1993, she squeezed a $333m settlement from a Californian energy company in a scandal over contaminated water. Three decades later, she has a new target in her sights – and it’s global When Erin Brockovich woke to find 30 emails from people from the same town, she realised something was going on. People email Brockovich all the time because of what happened in 1993, when she was instrumental in suing Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) on behalf of residents of the town of Hinkley, California, whose groundwater had been contaminated. The case resulted in a settlement of $333m – then the largest ever payout for a direct-action lawsuit. When she was immortalised by Julia Roberts in the 2000 film Erin Brockovich, she became the hero we didn’t know we needed, a modern day Joan of Arc. She had won against PG&E with no formal legal training. The emails she received a few weeks ago were about datacentres. In April, she put a callout on her website asking for anyone with concerns...

I’m a psychiatrist who was terrified of horror films – until I learned about ‘cinematic neurosis’

Why do scary movies thrill some viewers and send others running for the hills? Our writer gets to the bottom of his fear of the genre – with the assistance of Freud, clinical researchers and his six-year-old self I am six years old, and I am watching a man turn into a werewolf. The film is Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein, a 1948 comedy. I am staring up at our black-and-white TV fixated on the werewolf transformation unfolding in slow motion and I begin to scream so inconsolably that my parents must carry me upstairs to calm me down. That night was the beginning of my lifelong fear of horror films and of the supernatural, of darkness and of being alone in a house. Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/nwdHRqF via IFTTT

Still blazing after all these years: Mel Brooks at 100

The director of The Producers hits his century as a uniquely beloved entertainer who embodies his conviction that ‘comedy is the opposite of death’ Mel Brooks’ story is that of the US and Jews and American Jewish comedy. He was born on the kitchen table of a tenement in Brooklyn a century ago in the same month Marilyn Monroe made her own entrance on the opposite coast. The son of European immigrants, Brooks was brought up by his mother after his father died when Melvin was just two years old. He was a small, sickly child and the youngest of four brothers, perhaps an explanation for an almost pathological desire for attention. In the words of his colleague Larry Gelbart : “Mel thought when he got slapped in the ass by the doctor who delivered him that was applause, and he has not stopped performing since.” In his youth, Brooks’ preferred method of making a noise was playing the drums and he was actually taught the instrument by Buddy Rich. Neither could possibly have known at the time t...

Tearing up the screen: BFI’s Rip It Up season rebels against tired teen stereotypes

Young people have chosen this six-month season, and though rebel classics such as Quadrophenia and If … are here, the picks show youth culture in flux Seventy-five years ago, the Festival of Britain offered a vision of a modern, forward-looking nation emerging from the austerity of the second world war. It also coincided with the emergence of a new cultural figure in the US: the teenager. For the first time, young people were beginning to be recognised as a distinct social group with their own tastes, fashions, anxieties and aspirations. That evolution forms the basis of Rip It Up, a new nationwide season from the BFI Film Audience Network running from May to October, exploring how British film and television have captured youth culture across seven decades. Bringing together screenings, archive material, talks, live events and youth-led programming, the season traces a journey from postwar rebellion and working-class aspiration to contemporary questions of identity, belonging and self...

Shahid Kapoor becomes Bvlgari’s first Friend of the House for fragrances in India; says, “It feels like a partnership that makes sense to me”

Shahid Kapoor has added another milestone to his career by becoming Bvlgari's first-ever Friend of the House for fragrances in India. The announcement marks a significant development for the Italian luxury maison, as it is also the brand's first fragrance collaboration with a male personality in the Indian market. The partnership comes at a time when Shahid Kapoor is enjoying the success of his recently released film Cocktail 2, which has received a positive response from audiences. Beyond the big screen, the actor has continued to expand his presence in the luxury and lifestyle space with this latest association. As part of the collaboration, Shahid will represent a curated selection of Bvlgari's fragrance portfolio, including the widely recognised Bvlgari Man and Bvlgari Le Gemme collections. The brand stated that Shahid's personality and style align with Bvlgari's identity of timeless luxury, craftsmanship and contemporary sophistication, making him a natural ch...

EXCLUSIVE: Tanishk Bagchi gets engaged to Payal Dangodra in a close-knit ceremony at Mahaveer Jain’s home; Amruta Fadnavis attends

One of the most prominent composers of the film industry, Tanishk Bagchi, is now engaged. Bollywood Hungama has exclusively learned that the engagement took place yesterday, Friday, June 26. Tanishk Bagchi's engagement took place with Payal Dangodra, a prominent fashion, beauty, food, travel and lifestyle content creator. The engagement ceremony was a close knit one and took place in the Mumbai residence of producer Mahaveer Jain. Only close friends and family members were present to indulge in the celebrations and bless the couple. As per inside sources, Amruta Fadnavis, wife of the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, was one of the guests and she even sang songs. Interestingly, Tanishk Bagchi has now turned producer along with dynamic young producer Divyansh Jain under 'MJF NXT', a platform by Mahaveer Jain Films to present a platform for emerging creative talents in the entertainment industry landscape. Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Tanishk Bagchi of Saiyaara fame...

Akshay Kumar, Saif Ali Khan starrer Haiwaan locks September 11, 2026 release date

The wait is finally over for fans eager to see Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan share screen space once again. The makers of Haiwaan have officially announced that the much-anticipated thriller, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Priyadarshan, will hit cinemas worldwide on September 11, 2026. Backed by KVN Productions in association with Thespian Films, Haiwaan is being positioned as an edge-of-the-seat thriller that promises suspense, gripping drama and high-stakes storytelling. The film marks a significant collaboration as Priyadarshan reunites with Akshay Kumar while also bringing together Akshay and Saif Ali Khan for a much-awaited on-screen reunion. Announcing the release date on social media, KVN Productions shared an intriguing poster along with the caption, “One obsession. One relentless pursuit. One date you’ll want to remember. #Haiwaan - A Priyadarshan Film starring Saif Ali Khan and Akshay Kumar… In cinemas 11th September 2026. Mark your calendars”. The announcement has already...

The Mission review – a surgeon saves lives in war-torn Gaza in a visceral portrait of human endurance

Mohammad Tahir and his colleagues operate through bombing and blackouts in barely functional hospitals – but there are moments of relief amid the documentary’s tragedy and gore What this documentary might lack in film-making finesse it makes up for with sheer visceral and emotional impact. British nerve surgeon Mohammad Tahir and his colleagues, who also work the cameras, toil in Gaza’s barely operational hospitals during some of the worst days and nights of the war in the winter of 2024-25. Supported by US-based charity FAJR Global , who provide medical care to the world’s most in need, Tahir operates through bombings and blackouts with a bare minimum of medical supplies, sometimes treating patients lying on the floor in puddles of blood because there are no gurneys. This is often hard to watch, and not just because of all the gore; many of the victims are children, out of whom Tahir and the others dig bullets as well as tiny tungsten cubes, new-fangled shrapnel designed to cause maxi...

Ramayana makers revive plans for grand Dubai premiere: Report

Director Nitesh Tiwari's much-awaited film Ramayana may have a grand international premiere in Dubai if ongoing plans materialise. According to a report by Mid-Day, the makers have resumed discussions about hosting the film's premiere in the UAE after earlier putting the idea on hold. The event is reportedly being planned for October 28 and is internally being referred to as the "Desert Premiere." Ramayana premiere plans revived after earlier pause As per the report, director Nitesh Tiwari and producer Namit Malhotra had initially considered Dubai as the venue for the film's premiere. However, those plans were paused earlier this year due to the conflict in West Asia. The report states that discussions have now resumed following the easing of the regional situation, with the team once again exploring the feasibility of hosting the event in Dubai. Location scouting reportedly underway According to Mid-Day, preliminary groundwork has already begun, with location sc...

Jacqueline Fernandez withdraws Supreme Court plea in Rs 200 crore money laundering case linked to Sukesh Chandrashekhar

Actor Jacqueline Fernandez has withdrawn her special leave petition before the Supreme Court that challenged proceedings initiated against her in the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) Rs 200 crore money laundering case linked to alleged conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar. As per an IANS report, a Bench comprising Justices B.V. Nagarathna and Joymalya Bagchi on Thursday allowed the actor to withdraw her petition after the matter was taken up for hearing. Petition challenged Delhi High Court and trial court orders Jacqueline had approached the Supreme Court after the Delhi High Court refused to quash the ED's prosecution complaint and the trial court's order framing charges against her under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). With the withdrawal of the petition, the legal proceedings against the actor will continue before the trial court. Matter was reassigned after judge recused himself The case was initially listed before a Bench of Justices Prashant Kumar Mishra and A...

Bello! Why gen Alpha subconsciously speaks the language of the Minions

From global loanwords and garbled Italian, the slang of the children of millennials doesn’t just share elements with Minionese – it may have absorbed it I was four years old when Despicable Me was released in cinemas and the banana-coloured, overall-clad Minions took the world by storm. By the time I was seven, my siblings and I were using The Official Minion Manual to teach ourselves Minionese. Minionese is, of course, the made-up language spoken by Kevin, Stuart, Bob and company, which consists of a combination of melodic gibberish and variations on genuine vocabulary from a diverse array of world languages . When the Minions shout “kanpai” (“cheers” in Japanese) or “para tú!” ( a variation on the Spanish “para ti” ), it might remind you of how gen Alpha slang, which primarily consists of nonsensical words such as “cap” and “mogging”, also draws on world languages. Consider the Bulgarian scat origins of “skibidi”, for example. Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https...

The Furious review – dial-shifting dadsploitation mayhem as father goes in search of kidnapped daughter

There’s more than a whiff of Taken in Kenji Tanigaki’s exhilarating martial-arts movie, in which a handyman goes after some evil people traffickers It keeps happening: every few years, usually during a run of lethargic Hollywood spectacles, the Overton window of screen violence gets recalibrated by a muscular wonder from the east. Thundering along in the bloody footsteps of the Raid films and the Hindi punch-’em-up Kill, this martial-arts showcase from Japanese-born, Hong Kong-based director Kenji Tanigaki opens in generic dadsploitation territory. “Somewhere in Southeast Asia”, as a caption has it, mute Chinese handyman Wang Wei (Miao Xie) tears off after the traffickers who have nabbed his daughter (Enyou Yang). Having Hulk-smashed its way out of the Taken box, though, The Furious starts to crank it up. Boy, does it crank it up; the closing half-hour achieves a pummelling intensity unlikely to be matched by any other release this year. There are one or two plot developments. Cribbing...

Jacob Elordi, Jenna Ortega and Stephen Fry among new invited Oscar voters

Annual list of creatives invited to join the Academy also includes Josh O’Connor, Teyana Taylor and Jon Bernthal Jacob Elordi , Jenna Ortega and Stephen Fry are among the 529 creatives invited to join this year’s member class of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. “We are delighted to invite this remarkable group of film artists and professionals from around the world to join the Academy,” said CEO Bill Kramer and Academy president Lynette Howell Taylor in a statement. “Through their commitment to filmmaking, this year’s exceptionally talented class has made significant contributions to our global movie industry.” Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/YRBbmwh via IFTTT

EXCLUSIVE: Ali Fazal's fierce new poster from Mirzapur: The Movie raises anticipation ahead of teaser launch

Ahead of the teaser launch tomorrow, the makers have just dropped a striking new poster featuring Ali Fazal, from the much-awaited Mirzapur: The Movie, and it is everything fans have been waiting for. With the teaser set to drop tomorrow, the buzz around the film has officially hit fever pitch. The poster showcases Ali Fazal in his iconic avatar, radiating intensity and power. With a fierce expression and commanding presence, the character's look hints at the high-stakes drama, revenge, and power battles that have become synonymous with the Mirzapur franchise. While the poster offers no clues about the storyline, it successfully reignites excitement among fans eager to witness the return of one of the most loved characters from the Mirzapur universe. The visual serves as a reminder that the battle for power is far from over and that the world of Mirzapur is gearing up for an even grander cinematic experience. As excitement builds, all eyes are now on the teaser, which promises to ...

Deja viewing: the return of the cheapo compilation film

While movie mixtapes served a purpose in the pre-video era, Jackass, Demon Slayer, Peppa Pig and other theatrically released assemblages of old material risk looking like cynical cash grabs today Johnny Knoxville has declared that the fifth Jackass movie, Best and Last, will mark the end of the franchise, and the trailer suggests a victory lap celebrating 25 years of broken bones, injured genitals and general stupidity you shouldn’t try at home. There are new stunts, and conversations with the cast about growing old gracelessly as they enter their 50s, but the most striking thing is how much archive footage there is. And the cast have not been hiding in interviews that it will be heavy on scenes from prior movies. In other words, it’s the cinematic equivalent of a greatest hits album that has a couple of new songs tossed on to entice fans to part with their money. Or a clip show episode of a US sitcom which is based on flashbacks to older episodes, created so that overworked writers ca...

Hold the Fort review – gory goings-on at the neighbours association get-together

A couple move from the city to a seemingly clean-cut suburb in this enjoyable comedy-horror that breezes through the grisly deaths of characters you won’t care about In this short, sharp, comedy-horror-siege movie, youngish couple Jenny (Haley Leary) and Lucas (Chris Mayers) are the newcomers in a clean-cut – or is it? – suburban neighbourhood, having moved away from the big city. Lucas is a world-class red-flag-ignorer, while in contrast, Jenny is adept at spotting the signs that something is off. When the perky moustachioed head of the local homeowners’ association Jerry (Julian Smith) invites the pair to a party celebrating the equinox, he assures them “it’s to DIE for!” in the tone of voice Ned Flanders might use in a Simpsons Halloween special. Jenny immediately asks the reasonable question: “Why would you say it like that?” Roles are soon reversed at said homeowners’ association party, as an ample helping of the local moonshine blunts Jenny’s natural caution, leaving Lucas to not...

The Morrigan review – spirit of pagan demon queen unleashed in Irish burial chamber horror

Archaeologists blunder into an ancient and unwittingly release a vengeful monster – with predictable and conventional results In Irish folklore, the Morrígan is a powerful goddess of death and war. This horror movie imagines her as an actual historical figure: a pagan queen massacred with her followers by Christians. A quick scene at the start of the film shows the dirty deed. The Morrígan’s rage against misogyny has screamed down through the centuries – so it’s a shame the film frames her not as a feminist icon but a highly conventional horror movie nemesis; a malign vengeful female to be crushed and destroyed. There is nothing to punch the air about in the end. Saffron Burrows plays an archaeologist called Fiona who has been repeatedly passed over for tenure at her US university. When Fiona presents her radical theory that the myth of the Morrígan may have a basis in real life, her slippery colleague Jonathan (Jonathan Forbes) is made the lead on the dig. Fiona is forced to bring al...

Landship review – soldiers yearn for tinned pies in muddy first world war drama that stays inside the tank

It’s too murky to distinguish one stiff upper lip from another in Callum Burn’s drama about a real-life mission that came unstuck Based loosely on a true story, this British first world war drama deploys a few cunning stratagems to keep the budget down – starting with setting almost the entire story inside a tank; this one is nicknamed the Fray Bentos after the popular tinned pie. In addition, whenever the British soldier characters venture outside this extremely confined space, it’s almost always night-time, or exactly the moment when a miasma of smoke and fog is so thick, you can’t see the Germans skulking behind papier-mache hillocks of mud, ready to pounce on our plucky heroes. Unfortunately, all that gloom and grot makes it a little hard to make out what is going on at times. That means the noble chaps become almost indistinguishable from each other – although over time it’s possible to work out that the officers are the ones with tidy, manly moustaches and sound posh, while the n...

Emraan Hashmi returns to horror after 5 years with Rooh, set for 2027 release

After redefining horror for a generation and becoming one of the most recognisable faces of the genre in Indian cinema, Emraan Hashmi is set to headline Rooh, a high-concept musical-horror spectacle designed for a theatrical experience. The film is slated for a 2027 theatrical release in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu. Directed by Mayank Sharma, the creator-director of the highly acclaimed Prime Video’s Breathe Franchise, Rooh brings together a unique blend of new-age horror, music and emotion, envisioned as a spine-chilling cinematic experience. Known for his command over psychological depth, atmosphere and character-led storytelling, Mayank brings his immersive vision to a film built for the big screen. Rooh brings Emraan Hashmi into a world that is close to his heart and deeply connected to the kind of cinema audiences have always loved him for. The film is written by Mayank Sharma and Vishal Kapoor, known for Lapachhapi and Chhorii, and produced by Vikram Khakhar and Sunny Khanna, a Vick...

Welcome To The Jungle to have one of the WIDEST releases; distributor demands ALL shows in single screens, 3 shows per screen in 6+ screen multiplexes

The month of June is expected to end on a comic note thanks to the release of Welcome To The Jungle. It is arguably the biggest multi-starrer of Hindi cinema and hence, the excitement is expected to be tremendous. Accordingly, the distributing partner, Star Studio18, has gone all out with the release strategy. As per the mail sent to the exhibitors, the distributor has asked for all shows in single-screen cinemas. In two-screen cinemas, they have asked for 7 or 8 shows, while they require 9 or 10 shows in three-screen cinemas. In 4-screen multiplexes, the requirement is 11 or 12 shows, while 13 or 14 shows are required in 5-screen plexes. For cinema halls with 6 screens, Welcome To The Jungle needs to be played in 15 or 16 shows. Finally, in multiplexes with more than 6 screens, the studio has asked them to play 3 shows of the comic caper per screen. A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “Welcome To The Jungle is a grand film meant for the big screen. Due to the humour quotient and s...

Shadows of Willow Cabin review – secrets fester beneath horny hookup in low budget horror

Two men’s romantic getaway turns creepy in a talky elevated chiller about escaping the binds of the past The best elevated horror makes a metaphor out of its writhing emotional subtext, but writer-director Joe Fria sadly can’t make the leap in this low-budget debut that undoubtedly has issues on its mind: repressed homosexuality, compulsive hookups and generational trauma. For much of the film the horror elements abruptly waylay what is otherwise a fraught two-handed gay drama. After meeting on the apps, middle-aged English teacher Albert (Bryan Bellomo) and lithe paramedic Devon (John Brodsky) are finally getting cosy at Willow Cabin – the former’s childhood summer getaway, named for a line in Twelfth Night. But secrets fester beneath this ostensibly horny hookup. In Albert’s case, he has a wife and son – and this spot, which once belonged to his uncle, is where he first explored the other side of his sexuality, with his cousin. As for Devon, Albert is the latest in a long line of unf...

Pankaj Tripathi’s brother hospitalised after alleged sharp-weapon assault in Bihar

Bijendra Nath Tiwari, the brother of acclaimed actor Pankaj Tripathi, has reportedly sustained serious injuries following an alleged attack in Bihar. According to reports, the incident took place in Belsand village, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Madhopur police station. As per information shared by news agency IANS, Tiwari was injured in a sharp-weapon assault that is believed to be connected to a long-standing dispute. Following the attack, he was initially taken to a local medical facility before being shifted to Patna for advanced treatment due to the severity of his condition. Attack on Pankaj Tripathi’s brother allegedly linked to old rivalry Reports suggest that the attackers had allegedly been waiting in the village and targeted Tiwari over an old feud. According to the complaint cited in media reports, the assailants allegedly launched a sudden attack using sharp weapons, leaving him with serious injuries. IANS shared an update on social media regarding the inciden...

The Fabulous Gold Harvesting Machine review – scavenger’s story reveals a rich seam to mine

Alfredo Pourailly De La Plaza’s absorbing documentary about an ageing Chilean gold panner is meticulously detailed and doubles as its own act of visual prospecting Out on the remote archipelago of Tierra del Fuego in Chile, Toto Gesell holds on to a profession that hails from bygone times: gold prospecting. Every day, come rain or shine, he puts on his rubber boots and heads to a local creek, where he searches for specks of gold the old-fashioned way: with a pan, a shovel and a homemade sluice. His daily routines are documented with great tenderness in Alfredo Pourailly De La Plaza’s absorbing documentary, shot over nearly a decade. The camera often lingers on Toto’s wrinkled hands, as he carefully handles tiny flecks of the precious metal, or writes down his hopes and dreams in a neatly kept diary. Despite his contentment with this simple way of life, his body is etched with the physical toil of the demanding work. When Jorge, Toto’s worried son, decides to build a trommel from scratc...

Karan Deol calls Sunny Deol “my first hero” on Father's Day 2026 note; shares glimpses from Batwara 1947 ahead of release

After creating a strong impact with its gripping motion poster, Batwara 1947 has now unveiled a compelling series of character posters that reflect courage, innocence, resilience, and unwavering determination. Presented by Aamir Khan Productions, the film promises a deeply emotional story of sacrifice, hope, and the indomitable human spirit. As excitement for the film continues to build, Karan Deol, son of Sunny Deol, who will be sharing screen space with his father for the first time in Batwara 1947, penned a heartfelt note on Father's Day. Taking to social media, Karan Deol shared some adorable stills from the film and expressed his love and admiration for his father, Sunny Deol. While the duo is set to share screen space in Batwara 1947, Karan conveyed his immense affection and respect for his father through an emotional message. He also shared the caption: "There are moments that feel destined. Telling Papa once on his set about my dream of acting with him was one of them...

Toxic release date announced: Yash-starrer to arrive in cinemas on August 26, 2026

After months of speculation and multiple postponements, the makers of Toxic have finally announced a new release date for the highly anticipated film. Headlined by Yash and directed by Geetu Mohandas, the action drama is now slated to release in cinemas worldwide on August 26, 2026. The announcement comes a day after the film's official social media handles sparked excitement among fans with a cryptic post that read, “Got plans for tomorrow?” The message immediately fuelled speculation that a major update was on the way. As expected, the makers have now confirmed the film's theatrical release date, bringing an end to months of uncertainty surrounding the project. A Long Journey to the Big Screen Toxic has witnessed an eventful release journey. When the film was first announced, it was scheduled to arrive in theatres on April 10, 2025. However, the ambitious scale of the production and an extensive shooting schedule resulted in delays. Honour Thy Father...#Toxic In Cinemas Worl...

Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Janhvi Kapoor, Kiara Advani, and Bhumi Pednekkar show how to ace the corset look

Corsets have often brought a sense of regal charm to the fore when it comes to fashion that blends tradition with sophistication. And our Bollywood divas have shown just how to pull traditional corset looks, especially in golden. Take a look: Kareena Kapoor Khan: Kareena Kapoor Khan stunned in a handwoven silver tissue saree with a golden corset, featuring detailed embellishments that nearly define the outfit’s mood. Letting the outfit speak for itself, the actress layers her look with selective silver jewellery and a statement bindi.   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Rhea Kapoor (@rheakapoor) Bhumi Satish Pednekkar: Bhumi Satish Pednekkar looks straight out of an Egyptian frame, dressed in a golden outfit by Ekaya Banaras, featuring a body-hugging matching corset. The Daldal star lets her ensemble steal the spotlight while she fuels her look with statement, heavy jewellery pieces.   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Bhumi Satish Ped...

Film producer’s 50 firms struck off companies register, leaving workers unable to chase fees

Scores of Alan Latham’s firms were removed by Companies House, including one set up for movie starring Liz Hurley A prolific film producer, whose projects have starred the likes of Frasier’s Kelsey Grammer and Four Weddings and a Funeral’s Anna Chancellor , has had scores of his production businesses forcibly removed from the UK’s companies register, leaving workers unable to chase unpaid fees. Alan Latham, whose low-budget films have previously raised questions over his use of tax credits , has seen 50 of his film businesses compulsorily struck off by Companies House, according to data compiled by the film workers’ union, Bectu. Continue reading... from Film | The Guardian https://ift.tt/NP6U0Wa via IFTTT

SCOOP: Sunny Deol-Akshaye Khanna's Netflix film Ikka expected to have fan screenings before release

Veteran actors Sunny Deol and Akshaye Khanna are clearly on a high right now. Sunny’s career got a boost with the blockbuster success of Gadar 2 (2023). Jaat (2025) was a decent grosser while Border 2 (2026) was a huge hit, which proved that Gadar 2’s success was not a fluke. Meanwhile, Akshaye Khanna went on another level with his performance as Rehman Dakait in Dhurandhar (2025). Both these stars will now share screen space in Ikka. The film will release directly on Netflix on July 10; however, lucky fans are expected to get a chance to catch the film on the big screen. A Twitter handle named ‘LegendDeols’ revealed on June 19 that fan screenings of the film will be held in July 8 in 3-4 cities, that is, two days before the release. The handle further asked the fans to show interest in the post so that they can get tickets to this screening. Bollywood Hungama enquired about it and learned that such a screening is indeed in the works. A source told us, “The makers are indeed planning ...

Delhi HC postpones hearing on Salman Khan's petition against Kala Hiran; next hearing on July 1

 The Delhi High Court on Friday deferred the hearing on actor Salman Khan's plea seeking to restrain the filming, promotion, and release of the proposed film Kala Hiran: The Battle for Legacy. The matter was postponed after counsel representing the filmmakers sought additional time to file a response to the application. The case was heard by the vacation bench of Justice Madhu Jain, which has now listed the matter before the roster bench on July 1. Salman Khan has approached the court alleging that the proposed film and its promotional material are based on incidents linked to him and unlawfully exploit his personality and publicity rights. Salman Khan seeks interim relief During the hearing, Senior Advocate Sandeep Sethi, appearing on behalf of Salman Khan, urged the court to grant interim protection against the film's release and promotional activities. "He is producing a film on my life and tearing up the notice. He has no right to make a film of my life. I am seeking ...

Pulkit Samrat makes cameo in Shahid Kapoor, Rashmika Mandanna and Kriti Sanon's Cocktail 2

Cocktail 2 has struck a chord with audiences thanks to the crackling chemistry between Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon and Rashmika Mandanna. Amid the romance, drama and entertaining twists, viewers were treated to an unexpected surprise as Pulkit Samrat made a special cameo appearance in the film. The makers successfully kept Pulkit's role under wraps, making his entry one of the film's biggest wow moments. Pulkit features in a fun and playful sequence alongside Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon and Rashmika Mandanna, bringing an added dose of entertainment to the narrative. The light-hearted interaction between the four actors creates one of the film's most enjoyable moments, adding to the overall charm and leaving audiences pleasantly surprised. Released yesterday (June 19), Cocktail 2 has been receiving praise for its engaging storyline and the chemistry shared by Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon and Rashmika Mandanna. While the lead trio has won hearts, Pulkit Samrat's surprise cam...

In the Hand of Dante review – Gerard Butler is jaw-dropping in bizarre Renaissance mafia reverie

Julian Schnabel’s combustible mix of lowlife cynicism and high art – along with cameos from Martin Scorsese and Al Pacino – powers this outrageous black comedy revolving around Dante’s Divine Comedy The worlds of Renaissance manuscript scholarship and organised crime come together like a mix of Umberto Eco and George V Higgins in this flawed but fascinating reverie from director and co-writer Julian Schnabel. Switching between monochrome and colour, and freely adapted from the Nick Tosches novel of the same name, it is hilarious and shocking, at least at first, with a quite extraordinary tough-guy role for Gerard Butler. It is a mysterious, scabrous and bizarre adventure in violent larceny and spiritual crisis which unfortunately unwinds in the end into sentimental fantasy. In the Hand of Dante amounts to an epic and self-aware jeu d’ésprit with amazing cameos from Martin Scorsese, Al Pacino and Franco Nero, beckoning its audience over to peep into the fathomless abyss of heaven and ...

Vvan: Force of the Forest team heads for additional shoot to enhance climax and key sequences: Report

The makers of Vvan: Force of the Forest are leaving no stone unturned to ensure that the upcoming folk thriller delivers a compelling cinematic experience. The team has reportedly planned a 10-day additional shoot to expand and enhance certain portions of the film, with particular focus on the climax and a few other crucial sequences. According to a report by Mid-Day, the decision was taken after the makers reviewed the film's latest cut. While the team is satisfied with the overall progress of the project, they identified opportunities to further elevate some moments that play an important role in the story's emotional and dramatic payoff. The report quoted a source associated with the film, saying, “The team simply felt there was scope to make some scenes bigger and more dramatic. When you're building a world as unique as Vvan, every detail matters.” Sharing further insight into the team's approach, the source added, “The makers are extremely happy with the film. The...

Eetha teaser attached with Cocktail 2; Shraddha Kapoor seen in an all-new avatar 

On June 16, Bollywood Hungama was among the first to inform readers that the teasers of Rajkummar Rao’s Prahaar – The Ujjwal Nikam Story and Shraddha Kapoor’s Eetha would be attached to Cocktail 2. The romcom released this Friday and, as predicted, both assets have indeed been hard-locked into the prints of the Shahid Kapoor-Kriti Sanon-Rashmika Mandanna starrer. In this article, we take a look at the Eetha teaser. Eetha features Shraddha Kapoor in the role of legendary Marathi Tamasha artist Vithabai Narayangaonkar. Directed by Laxman Utekar of Chhaava (2025) fame, the film also stars Randeep Hooda and Mohd Zeeshan Ayyub. It is scheduled to release in cinemas on August 28 on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan. The teaser was passed by the CBFC with a U/A 13+ rating on June 17 and has a runtime of 2 minutes and 18 seconds. The teaser opens with a crowd demanding a performance from a dancer named Eetha. One expects a typical massy entry for the lead actress. Instead, Shraddha Kapoor appear...

Voicemails for Isabelle review – Netflix romcom picks creepy over cute

Zoey Deutch and Nick Robinson stumble in this mushy, overlong story of a woman leaving voicemails for her dead sister There’s a fine line between romantic comedy and creepy thriller, and while redefining the genre’s lovelorn leads as often incredibly oddball stalkers is nothing new (see the Sleepless in Seattle trailer recut as a horror movie 20 years ago), an online deluge of memes and thinkpieces have elevated post-movie bar jokes to commonly accepted theory. Some film-makers have slowly tried to catch up and capitalise – last year’s dark comedy I Love You Forever showed how epic acts of romance can be rooted in manipulation while a great deal of what makes current box office record-breaker Obsession so effective is its horror movie perversion of the day-to-day realities of all-consuming true love. Netflix’s latest romcom Voicemails for Isabelle is made with some awareness of how unsettling its premise is, as if it was originally written in the 2000s and then dusted off and tweake...

REVEALED: NO IMAX release for Spider-Man: Brand New Day as Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey EXCLUSIVELY blocks IMAX screens for three weeks

July is expected to be huge for Hollywood in India, as two highly anticipated films are set to arrive in cinemas. The Odyssey will release on July 17, while Spider-Man: Brand New Day will hit theatres in India on July 30. Though both films are still a month away from release, their advance bookings have already opened for Indian audiences. The bookings of The Odyssey went live on June 8, while yesterday, June 17, viewers got a chance to book tickets for Spider-Man: Brand New Day. The tickets of both films are selling like hot cakes, indicating that they are headed for a strong start at the box office. Spider-Man films have traditionally enjoyed an IMAX release, but Spider-Man: Brand New Day will be an exception. As of now, bookings have opened only in PXL, 4DX, ScreenX, Marco XE and other such premium formats. A user asked in the comments section of the film’s trailer, posted by Sony Pictures India, whether Spider-Man: Brand New Day would release in IMAX. Sony confirmed, “No IMAX rele...

Salman Khan in talks with Farhan Akhtar for two-part historical epic: Report

Salman Khan's upcoming slate continues to expand. After signing an action-comedy with filmmaker duo Raj Nidimoru and Krishna D.K., and while shooting for his untitled film with director Vamshi Paidipally and co-star Nayanthara, the superstar is now reportedly exploring another major project. According to a report by Pinkvilla, Salman is currently in discussions with actor-filmmaker Farhan Akhtar for a large-scale historical action drama that could mark their first collaboration. A source close to the development told the publication, “Salman Khan and Farhan Akhtar have been meeting regularly over the last month and discussing a potential collaboration. Salman has loved what he has heard so far and has shown keen interest in the project.” The source added that conversations are still in the early stages. “The talks are still at an early stage and have not yet reached the paperwork phase, but both sides are excited about the possibility of coming together for the first time.” If the...

‘The masturbation scene wasn’t a big deal’: Théodore Pellerin on tackling his new film Nino’s challenges

Locked out of his apartment, a cancer-stricken Parisian is caught in a race against time to freeze his sperm. The rising star who plays him explains how he tackled a very initimate quest Just six months after the world rallied to defend poor Paul Dano , vulnerability may now be a hot commodity for an actor. What is “weak sauce” for Quentin Tarantino, who attacked Dano, can be mighty savoury for others. So it’s good timing that Théodore Pellerin, with his gangly frame and huge eyes, exudes that quality in the new French character study Nino. Gauche, hesitant and withholding, Pellerin is magnetic as a young Parisian locked out of his apartment for a weekend after a papillomavirus (HPV)-related cancer diagnosis. Pellerin explains Nino’s predicament, his inability to be candid with his loved ones, almost down to the cellular level. “His throat cancer isn’t insignificant,” he says. “It’s the part that links the head to the body. There’s a dissociation from the body – a distancing of his emo...