Thursday, March 31, 2022
Neeraj Pandey's upcoming production Operation Romeo to hit the screens on April 22
With a video of a group of people bullying a young couple for sitting alone in the park going viral, the conversation around moral policing has again taken center stage on social media. Now, highlighting this archaic societal problem, the two powerhouses Neeraj Pandey and Shital Bhatia's Friday Filmworks and Reliance Entertainment have announced their next, 'Operation Romeo,' with the intriguing motion poster.
Starring Sidhant Gupta and Vedika Pinto in the lead roles with Sharad Kelkar, Bhumika Chawla, and Kishor Kadam, the motion poster of Operation Romeo has the tone of the upcoming powerful drama high!
Reliance Entertainment & Neeraj Pandey Present A Friday Filmworks Production Operation Romeo, produced by Shital Bhatia & Reliance Entertainment and directed by Shashant Shah, Operation Romeo will hit the screens on 22nd April 2022.
Rimi Sen duped of Rs. 4.4 crore by a man who invited her to invest in a LED light company
Actor Rimi Sen has allegedly been duped of Rs. 4.4 crore. Khar Police has registered a case against Ronak Jatin who allegedly duped Sen. He had reportedly offered high returns to Sen if she invested in his company that deals with LED lights.
Rimi Sen, who owns the Mamlo Film Production house in Khar complained that Jatin promised 40 percent profit if she invested in his company. In her complaint, Sen revealed that she met Jatin at a gym in 2019 where he came with the offer after they became friends.
According to a report, the police said that the case was filed after the suspect ignored Sen's phone calls. When the due date was up, Sen began to call Jatin asking for the money. However, he stopped receiving her calls. When Sen realised that she has been duped, she enquired about the same and learnt that he never started the company.
Sen has appeared in films like Baghban, Dhoom, Garam Masala, Kyon Ki, Phir Hera Pheri, and Golmaal: Fun Unlimited (2006).
Sajid Nadiadwala’s Bawaal starring Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor to be shot in Paris
Post their successful innings with Chhichhore (which bagged Best Hindi Feature Film National Award), Sajid Nadiadwala and filmmaker Nitesh Tiwari announce their new project- Bawaal, featuring Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor, to release on 7th April 2023.
The shoot of the much-anticipated film, which is a love story, is all set to take place in four European countries including the city of Love - Paris. The film shoot will also take place in three locations in India. With such a vast shoot schedule, the technicians and the production team is also very ecstatic.
The award-winning producer-director duo are collaborating forces yet again for Bawaal, which will see Varun and Janhvi sharing screen space opposite each other for the first time.
Though further details of the project have been kept under wraps by the makers, the big announcement is exciting enough for the fans of Varun and Janhvi who can’t wait to watch the two young superstars sizzle on the big screen together soon and with a film titled Bawaal, you can't expect anything short of maximum fun and entertainment.
Produced by Sajid Nadiadwala and directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the untitled next featuring Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor is scheduled to go on floors soon and will hit the screens on 7th April, 2023.
The Wanted singer Tom Parker dies of terminal brain cancer at the age of 33
Tom Parker, member of British-Irish band The Wanted, has died at the age of 33 after being diagnosed with a brain tumor. The band announced that Parker died Wednesday, “surrounded by his family and his band mates.”
As BBC reports, the singer announced in October 2020 that he had an inoperable tumour and underwent chemotherapy and radiotherapy. “Our hearts are broken, Tom was the centre of our world and we can't imagine life without his infectious smile and energetic presence,” Parker's wife Kelsey Hardwick wrote on Instagram. "We are truly thankful for the outpouring of love and support and ask that we all unite to ensure Tom's light continues to shine for his beautiful children.”
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“Thank you to everyone who has supported in his care throughout, he fought until the very end. I'm forever proud of you,” she concluded. The couple married in
2018 and had two children, a daughter Aurelia Rose, and a son Bodhi. The popular U.K. band said in a statement that Parker “passed away peacefully at lunchtime” where he was surrounded by his family and band mates.
“Tom was an amazing husband to Kelsey, and father to Aurelia and Bodhi," the band wrote on Instagram. "He was our brother, words can't express the loss and sadness we feel. Always and forever in our hearts.”
The Wanted was formed in 2009, with with 5 members: Tom Parker, Max George, Siva Kaneswaran, Nathan Sykes and Jay McGuiness. Kaneswaran also shared a post on Instagram, writing a touching letter that reads, “Hey Tom, hope you're having a blast up there. I am so grateful that I had a chance to witness your true courage. It has been a pleasure of my life Tommy Boy. Thank you for letting us see you light up the world. Talk to you soon and see you later. Love you brother x.”
Parker had posted a picture with his bandmates earlier this week on Instagram along with a simple cation that read, "Dream team."
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Celebrities and fans mourned the news of Parker's death. “Very sad day, what a lovely guy,” Ed Sheeran said on Instagram. Former One Direction star Liam Payne said he is “heartbroken” at the news. “He was so full of life and humour, and the memories I have of him with (sic) stay with me forever," Payne said on his Instagram story. "Sending my thoughts out to his family and his brothers in 'The Wanted.'"
Tabu and Ali Fazal to fly to Canada for the final schedule of Vishal Bharadwaj's Khufiya
Tabu and Ali Fazal will soon be seen in 'Khufiya' that takes them to the shadowy world of spies. Produced and directed by Vishal Bhardwaj, it also stars Wamiqa Gabbi and Ashish Vidyarthi besides the two actors. News is that the film is going to be wrapped up soon as the cast and crew have already started shooting the last schedule of the film in Canada.
According to a source close to the unit of Khufiya, 'the final schedule of the film is set to commence soon. Ali Fazal and Tabu are soon going to leave the country and will start shooting with Vishal sir in Canada. They were meant to do this earlier but due to the omicron variant wave in January, it was pushed further. Joining them will also be Wamiqa Gabbi.
As soon as this film shoot wraps up, the film will go into edit and is expected to come out towards the end of the year”.
Wednesday, March 30, 2022
Abhimanyu Dassani, Shirley Setia and Shilpa Shetty starrer Nikamma to release on June 17, 2022
Sony Pictures Films India and Sabbir Khan Films have announced the release date of the much-awaited and anticipated action entertainer Nikamma. The Abhimanyu Dassani, Shirley Setia, Shilpa Shetty, and Abhimanyu Singh starrer is set to hit the screens on 17th June 2022. The action entertainer Nikamma is now all set to entertain the audience with its wholesome package of action, romance, and explosive entertainment on the silver screen. The film is from the director of the original Heropanti and Baaghi and is a film to watch out for this summer.
Director Sabbir Khan is happy that the film is releasing in the theatres, he says, “The whole team has been waiting very patiently for the times to be right for the world and I am just happy to see our film finally getting a theatrical release, which is what the film was conceived for. The fresh new pairing of Abhimanyu and Shirley will surprise everyone, with Shilpa in a totally different avatar. I hope that the audiences will show the same love for Abhi and Shirley as they had done for Tiger and Kriti in their debut Heropanti."
After the internationally acclaimed debut with Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota and the impressive performance in his first digital film Meenakshi Sundareshwar, Abhimanyu ventures onto the big screen with Nikamma. Yielding fruits to the long wait through the pandemic, Abhimanyu reveals, "They say good things take time, I believe the same when it comes to 'Nikamma'. Working on this film has been an adventure I'm glad we chose to wait for a theatrical release for it. ‘Nikamma’ is a total family entertainer that is best enjoyed in a community viewing experience of a theatre with popcorn and samosas."
The girl next door Shirley Setia who has already charmed the audiences with her music is ecstatic to mark her first major theatrical release. She says, "I have been waiting for this day to arrive and I am elated and thankful for our makers to make this happen and at the right time. I hope that my fans support us with all their love, as they have always done till now."
Shilpa Shetty says, “I am glad our film Nikamma has a release date set and I cannot wait for audiences to see me in another avatar. As an actress, it is great to be back in the theatres after a hiatus of 15 years. It's the first film I said yes to after my sabbatical, and I was convinced by Sabbir’s grasp on the craft and the unusual and exciting part he had to offer. Avni has been one of my most challenging roles yet, but also a part I enjoyed playing to the hilt. Can’t wait for people to enjoy ‘Nikamma’ in the theatres.”
Nikamma promises to unfold the different facets of Abhimanyu's versatility while marking Shirley Setia's first theatrical release. Bringing back Shilpa Shetty to the silver screen after a long time, the film is a treat for audiences across all spectrums.
Nikamma will release on 17th June 2022.
ALSO READ: Shehnaaz Gill talks to Shilpa Shetty about the trolling she faced after Sidharth Shukla’s demise- “He never told me to stop smiling”
“I don’t know why Vivek Agnihotri would say something so absurd,” 'Bhopali' Rumi Jaffery is puzzled
The Kashmir Files’ director Vivek Agnihotri’s remark on the term ‘Bhopali’ being synonymous with homosexuality has puzzled Vivek’s close friend writer-director Rumi Jaffery who is from Bhopal.
“I don’t know why Vivek would say such a thing. My first response was that of disbelief. I thought he was being misquoted. Then I saw the video, and it seems he did say it. Baaton baaton mein kuch ajeeb sa keh diya. Hota hai,” says Rumi, adding that he did not want to comment on it.
“Vivek is a dear friend. We have worked together. In fact, during the pandemic, we completed a film together which I wrote and he directed. We have the same circle of friends. If it was someone else saying something like this, I would be much more vocal. However, Vivek… I do not know where he got his statistics. There are so many well-known artists from Bhopal in Bollywood,” says Rumi.
Somy Ali deletes her post after warning 'Harvey Weinstein of Bollywood'; says the women he abused will share their truth just like Aishwarya Rai Bachchan
Somy Ali has taken to social media to warn the 'Harvey Weinstein of Bollywood' that the said person will be one day exposed. The former actress took to her Instagram handle on Wednesday to share a still silhouette still from a Bollywood music video and said that one day, he will be exposed by the people who he abused. She even mentioned Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in her note.
"The Harvey Weinstein of Bollywood! You will be exposed. The women you abused will come out one day and share their truth. Just like @aishwaryaraibachchan_arb," Somy wrote in her now-deleted Instagram post. She did not mention the name of the said person.
Interestingly, the still was from Salman Khan and Bhagyashree's song 'Aate Jaate Haste Gaate' from the film Maine Pyar Kiya.
In 2018, at the height of the #MeToo movement, Somy Ali had shared, "As a survivor of sexual abuse at the age of 5 and rape at 14, I would like to salute all those that have spoken up and plan on doing so. I know it is very difficult to do it because I have been there and it took me many years to be able to talk about it. It takes immense amount of courage to share this with the world. It's even harder when you tell those that are close to you and they are supposed to protect you, yet they do nothing. I have been there too and it hurts like hell."
"I want these survivors to know it is truly liberating and completely worth it. Do not let the nonbelievers stop you. This is your truth. Do not ever be afraid to speak your truth. Do not let this opportunity pass you. This is a moment that has been long overdue for all of us. This is your chance to be heard and finally obtain justice. I believe you," added Somy.
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Ranbir Kapoor confirms marriage plans with girlfriend Alia Bhatt: 'We have all the intentions of getting married soon'
Marriage is on the minds of Brahmastra couple Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt but when it will happen is yet to be decided. Ranbir, who was recently promoting his father Rishi Kapoor's last film Sharmaji Namkeen, confirmed that the pair has all the plans to get married soon but he won't give out a day.
The actor spoke to NDTV too and said, “I won’t give out a date during a media interaction. But Alia and I have all the intentions of getting married soon, so yes, hopefully soon.”
While Mahesh Bhatt told a tabloid that these are all rumours which have been going around for a while.
Ranbir Kapoor, while speaking to Film Companion recently, said, “I don’t know when I’m going to get married. We haven’t really decided on a date. But that’s definitely on the cards. We’ve not printed those cards yet, but it is on the cards!”
Meanwhile, Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt recently wrapped their film Brahmastra after five years of shooting. The film is scheduled for September 9, 2022 release.
ALSO READ: Sharmaji Namkeen: Aamir Khan, Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor, and others feature in special music video as tribute to Rishi Kapoor
The Kashmir Files to release in UAE on April 7 with zero cuts, Vivek Agnihotri calls it a 'big victory'
The Kashmir Files, helmed by Vivek Agnihotri and starring Anupam Kher in the lead, is making waves at the box office in India. Not just that, it has led to a lot of discussions around it. From politicians to cricketers to actors, many have had views about the film. With that being said, with the ongoing mixed reactions to the film, the film is finally set for UAE release. A few days ago, Vivek Agnihotri had revealed that the film was banned in the country and the reasons for the same were unknown. But, the director on Wednesday took to Twitter to reveal that the film will release in UAE on April 7 with zero cuts.
“BIG VICTORY: FINALLY, got the censor clearance from UAE. Rated 15+ passed without any cuts. Releasing on 7th April (Thursday). Now, Singapore. (Thanks Sanu for this portrait)," he tweeted. The lead actor Anupam Kher also celebrated the news.
हर हर महादेव! #TheKashmirFiles finally releasing in #UAE on 7th April! ???????? https://t.co/VHdcGUiWwE
— Anupam Kher (@AnupamPKher) March 30, 2022
Several states in India, including Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Tripura, Goa, and Uttarakhand, have made the film tax-free. The Kashmir Files stars Anupam Kher, Darshan Kumaar, and Pallavi Joshi in pivotal roles. The film is directed by Vivek Agnihotri.
ALSO READ: Trending Bollywood News: From The Kashmir Files director Vivek Agnihotri denying signing a film with Kangana Ranaut, to Ranveer Singh receiving a UAE Gold Visa, to Ranbir Kapoor talking about his late father Rishi Kapoor, and Diana Penty being signed opposite Shahid Kapoor, here are today’s top trending entertainment news
Trending Box Office: From Vivek Agnihotri’s The Kashmir Files crossing Rs. 300 cr at the Worldwide Box Office, to Ram Charan – Jr. NTR’s RRR surpassing The Batman, to the SS Rajamouli film entering the Rs. 100 crore Club, here are some of the latest box office trends this week
Over past two years the box office window has been a ghost town thanks to the covid pandemic either shutting down theatres, or filmmakers opting to release their ventures on OTT platforms. But now, with the lockdown being lifted and threatres reopening we see a plethora of films hitting the big screen. From last year’s release Sooryavanshi to the latest film in the form of the Alia Bhatt starrer Gangubai Kathiawadi, the audience have been patronising new releases. If that wasn’t all, even regional films, viz. Pushpa – The Rise have found acceptance among the audience. In this compendium, Bollywood Hungama takes a look at some of the latest and most rending box office reports this week, from Vivek Agnihotri’s The Kashmir Files crossing Rs. 300 cr at the Worldwide Box Office, to Ram Charan – Jr. NTR’s RRR surpassing The Batman, to the SS Rajamouli film entering the Rs. 100 crore Club, here are this week’s top trending and latest box office updates.
The Kashmir Files Box Office: Vivek Agnihotri directorial crosses the Rs. 300 cr mark at worldwide box office; collects Rs. 303.27 cr in 19 Days
The Vivek Agnihotri directorial featuring Anupam Kher, The Kashmir Files, was released a while back. After opening on a modest note, the business of the film witnessed exponential growth in collections over its opening weekend and the first week in theatres. If that wasn’t enough, with positive critic reviews and strong audience word of mouth, the makers of the film who had opted for a limited release across 650 screens, increased the total number of screens to 2000 to accommodate audience demand. Now, after a run of 19 days, The Kashmir Files has managed to hold its own at the box office despite releases in the form of Bachchhan Paandey and RRR has managed to cross the Rs. 300 cr mark at the worldwide box office. Read More.
RRR Worldwide Box Office: Film beats The Batman to occupy the no. 1 spot globally; collects nearly Rs. 480 cr. in opening weekend
The SS Rajamouli directed film RRR was released last week on Friday. Starring, Ram Charan, Jr. NTR, Alia Bhatt, and Ajay Devgn the film has been raking in the moolah at the domestic and international box office alike. In fact, RRR which has been one of the most talked-about and keenly anticipated releases of recent times opened with a bang with positive reviews from the critics and audience. If that wasn’t enough, the film also features one of the widest releases in both markets post the pandemic. Now, after a stellar opening weekend, RRR has emerged as a leader at the worldwide box office, even managing to surpass the business of the Hollywood release The Batman. See details Here.
RRR Box Office: SS Rajamouli’s film enters Rs. 100 cr club; collects Rs. 107.59 cr in 5 Days
The much-talked-about and keenly anticipated release RRR directed by SS Rajamouli was released last week on Friday. After receiving positive reviews from the critics, the business of the film opened with a bang. In fact, RRR starring Ram Charan, Jr. NTR, Alia Bhatt, and Ajay Devgn stormed the box office on its opening weekend raking in Rs. 74.50 cr in just three days. On Day 4, its first Monday, the business of the film remained steady drawing in a further Rs. 17 cr, taking the total collections to Rs. 91.50 cr. Continue Reading.
The Kashmir Files Box Office: Files beats Bajrangi Bhaijaan & Bahubali; ranks as the 9th all-time highest 3rd Tuesday grosser
The Vivek Agnihotri directed film The Kashmir Files that released over two weeks ago is still going strong. After a stellar opening weekend and first week, the business of the film saw yet another spurt in collections on its second weekend. Following this, despite new releases hitting screens the collections of The Kashmir Files has been rock steady. Now in its third week, the business of the film has begun to show signs of slowing down. Click here for More.
Trending Bollywood News: From The Kashmir Files director Vivek Agnihotri denying signing a film with Kangana Ranaut, to Ranveer Singh receiving a UAE Gold Visa, to Ranbir Kapoor talking about his late father Rishi Kapoor, and Diana Penty being signed opposite Shahid Kapoor, here are today’s top trending entertainment news
Each day a lot of things happen in the world of Bollywood. From new film announcements to celebrities being spotted with their rumoured partners, to of course social engagements, Bollywood News, and celebrations. Rounding up the rather active day in a comprehensive way, Bollywood Hungama brings to you a specialized way to catch up on the latest Bollywood news. So, from The Kashmir Files director Vivek Agnihotri denying signing a film with Kangana Ranaut, to Ranveer Singh receiving a UAE Gold Visa, to Ranbir Kapoor talking about his late father Rishi Kapoor, and Diana Penty being signed opposite Shahid Kapoor, here are today’s latest top trending entertainment and Bollywood news.
Vivek Agnihotri denies signing a film with Kangana Ranaut; says, “My films don’t need stars. They need actors”
Vivek Agnihotri is currently the most sought-after filmmaker in India. A-listers may be shy of publicly acknowledging his stupendous success with The Kashmir Files. But secretly many of them now want to work with him. One story doing the rounds is that Kangana Ranaut and Vivek Agnihotri will be working together when in truth there is no such project in the pipeline. Vivek is currently going around the country and the globe promoting The Kashmir Files, after which The Delhi Files which is complete, will be released. He has not even started to think of what he would like to make thereafter. Speaking generally about working with stars Vivek Agnihotri in an interview with me this weekend said, “My films don’t need stars. They need actors.” Continue reading for More.
Yas Island brand ambassador Ranveer Singh and his family receive UAE Golden Visas
Following the announcement of Ranveer Singh as the brand ambassador of Yas Island Abu Dhabi, one of the world’s leading leisure and entertainment destinations, the Bollywood icon and his family have been awarded UAE Golden Visas by the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture & Tourism. Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, CEO of Miral, handed Ranveer the prestigious 10-year residence visa at the Island’s Yas Marina Circuit HQ in the presence of Abdulaziz Al Dosari, Chief Support Services, and Badreyya Al Mazrooei, Head of Government & Travel Services from TwoFour54. With the aim of inviting travellers from India to experience a vacation like no other, Yas Island recently launched the viral marketing campaign, ‘Yas Hai Khaas’ with Bollywood’s most boundary-pushing star, Ranveer Singh in a mesmerizing video showcasing an electrifying journey of the destination’s plethora of attractions, diversity of offerings and the warm Yas Island welcome. Read More.
Ranbir Kapoor reveals dad Rishi Kapoor was anxious during cancer treatment about working again: ‘I’ve label of a patient, will people give me work?’
Ranbir Kapoor has been quite busy with his work schedule but ensuring that his father Rishi Kapoor's last film Sharmaji Namkeen receives all the buzz and more. The actor has been attending promotions and special screenings. In one of his first interviews in years, Ranbir Kapoor spoke about how the makers of the film planned to work on VFX after his father's death but it was too expensive technology. He also said that the sentiment that the son to complete the project was beautiful but they needed someone of Paresh Rawal's caliber in order to take forward Rishi Kapoor's character's story in the film. Continue Reading.
Diana Penty to star opposite Shahid Kapoor in Ali Abbas Zafar’s next
It’s raining film announcements and releases this year, and the movie lovers are having the time of our life! Recently, filmmaker Ali Abbas Zafar announced the wrap of his yet-to-be-titled film with Shahid Kapoor through an Instagram post, leaving fans super excited for his next action drama. See details Here.
Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor pair up for the first time for Nitesh Tiwari’s Bawaal, set to release on April 7, 2023
Post their successful innings with Chhichhore (which bagged Best Hindi Feature Film National Award), Sajid Nadiadwala and filmmaker Nitesh Tiwari announce their new project- Bawaal, featuring Varun Dhawan & Janhvi Kapoor, to release on 7th April, 2023. The award winning producer-director duo are collaborating forces yet again for Bawaal, which will see Varun and Janhvi sharing screen space opposite each other for the first time. Continue Reading.
Zoë Kravitz calls out Will Smith for slapping Chris Rock onstage at Oscars 2022 - "We are apparently assaulting people on stage now"
Zoë Kravitz reacted to Will Smith's outburst at the 94th annual Academy Awards Sunday night. The Batman star took to social media to share her thoughts on the controversial evening and criticized Smith’s actions at the awards ceremony where he slapped comedian Chris Rock onstage.
On Tuesday, Zoë shared her looks from the Oscars in a pair of posts on Instagram, making her feelings about the incident clear. “Here's a picture of my dress at the show where we are apparently assaulting people on stage now,” she captioned her first post.
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In a follow-up post of her after-party look, further alluding to the altercation, Zoë added, “And here is a picture of my dress at the party after the award show -where we are apparently screaming profanities and assaulting people on stage now.”
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On Sunday March 27, at the 94th Academy Awards, comedian-actor Chris Rock was left stunned at the 2022 Oscar night after Will Smith stormed to the Academy Awards stage and slapped the comedian across the face as he poked fun at Smith’s spouse, Jada Pinkett Smith, about her shaved head. In his subsequent acceptance speech for winning Best Actor Oscar, Smith apologized to the Academy and his fellow nominees, though he did not address Rock during the evening. However, Smith later released an apology to Rock through social media on Monday afternoon, expressing remorse over his actions.
“Violence in all of its forms is poisonous and destructive. My behavior at last night’s Academy Awards was unacceptable and inexcusable. Jokes at my expense are part of the job, but a joke about Jada’s medical condition was too much for me to bear and I reacted emotionally,” Smith wrote. “I would like to publicly apologize to you, Chris. I was out of line and I was wrong. I am embarrassed and my actions were not indicative of the man I want to be. There is no place for violence in a world of love and kindness.”
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Lionsgate Play announces the first Indian Gaming show: ‘Gamer Log’ as part of its diverse slate of Originals
Lionsgate Play, a premium streaming platform is home to blockbuster content that has provided viewers with a well-rounded slate across genres for its Indian Originals – from quirky comedy with Hiccups & Hookups to college drama with Jugaadistan. Taking this forward, Lionsgate Play is gearing up for yet another exciting show ‘Gamer Log’; an uproarious, coming-of-age sitcom set against the backdrop of competitive E-sports. This will be a first-of-a-kind Indian gaming show that will follow the adventures and misadventures of a team of professional gamers.
Gamer Log is produced by RDP Pulp Fiction Entertainment, which is headed by Abhinay Deo & Neeta Shah, who believe that content is the king. This high-spirited production house has developed “out-of-the-box”, dynamic & versatile content of various genres ranging from romantic, slice-of-life, and thriller films to action-packed web series. The company now arms itself for another exhilarating series “Gamer Log”. The show has been created by Karmanya Ahuja.
Speaking on the title announcement, Rohit Jain, Managing Director South Asia and Networks - Emerging Markets Asia at Lionsgate said, “It’s an exciting moment for Lionsgate Play as we add yet another feather in the growing list of impressive originals with Gamer Log. This announcement reiterates our mission to bring compelling stories and new content for viewers across the globe. E-sports is a booming industry in India; 350+ million online gamers were recorded last year, and it’s an upward growth from here. Gamer Log will essentially showcase the lives of these very Gamers. We look forward to working with Abhinay and Neeta on a show that will be funny, youthful, and mainstream.”
Mrinalini Khanna, VP, Originals, Lionsgate Play said, “Gamer Log embodies the exact principles of content coming out of Lionsgate stable – innovation blended with entertainment. The series is placed in an enthralling universe but has the classical challenges of a coming of age”
Abhinay Deo, Producer & Showrunner of “Gamer Log” said, “We are thrilled to be working with Lionsgate Play for Gamer Log. E-sports in India is growing in popularity with each passing year, but that’s an untouched subject in terms of Entertainment. With Gamer Log, we plan to tap into an unexplored world, bringing audiences a story about friendship, camaraderie, hopes, dreams, and ambition.”
Neeta Shah, Producer of “Gamer Log” said, “Gamer Log is a unique concept with peculiar characters who are quirky yet extremely relatable, managing internal dysfunction and navigating the competitive world of E-sports with comedy, drama, entertainment, and a lot of gaming. Abhinay & I believe that Lionsgate Play’s ethos works best for ‘Gamer Log’ – it’s a story for the mass with an innovative thought. I’m glad that Rohit & Mrinalini are in complete sync with our vision of the show.”
Lionsgate Play will announce a lot more information on Gamer Log soon – watch out the space for the cast, release date in the upcoming months
Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor pair up for the first time for Nitesh Tiwari's Bawaal, set to release on April 7, 2023
Post their successful innings with Chhichhore (which bagged Best Hindi Feature Film National Award), Sajid Nadiadwala and filmmaker Nitesh Tiwari announce their new project- Bawaal, featuring Varun Dhawan & Janhvi Kapoor, to release on 7th April, 2023.
The award winning producer-director duo are collaborating forces yet again for Bawaal, which will see Varun and Janhvi sharing screen space opposite each other for the first time.
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Though further details of the project have been kept under wraps by the makers, the big announcement is exciting enough for the fans of Varun and Janhvi who can’t wait to watch the two young superstars sizzle on the big screen together soon for a love story, you can't expect anything short of maximum fun and entertainment.
Jim Carrey 'sickened' by standing ovation for Will Smith after Oscar Slap - "Hollywood is just spineless"
Jim Carrey slammed Will Smith for slapping Chris Rock at the Oscars 2022 night and disagrees with how Smith's outburst at the Oscars was immediately handled as the audience of A-listers subsequently gave the actor a standing ovation.
While speaking on CBS Mornings about his new movie Sonic the Hedgehog 2, the legendary actor-comic reacted to what unfolded, saying he felt Hollywood is “spineless” for applauding Will after what had transpired. “I was sickened. I was sickened by the standing ovation. I felt like Hollywood is just spineless, en masse,” Jim said. “It really felt like, 'Oh, this is a really clear indication that we're not the cool club anymore."
As for Chris Rock not choosing to file assault charges, Jim said he “would've announced this morning that I was suing Will for $200 million, 'cause that video is gonna be there forever. It's gonna be ubiquitous. That insult is gonna last for a very long time. If you wanna yell from the audience and disapprove or show disapproval or say something on Twitter or whatever — you do not have the right to walk up onstage and smack somebody in the face because they said words.”
As People magazine reports, talks for “having Will removed was definitely discussed seriously,” a source shared with the outlet. “You can't plan for something like this and make a split-second decision that needs everyone's buy-in, and in any iteration that would have consequences.”
Jim Carrey made it clear that he believes the “selfish” outburst “came out of nowhere because Will has something going on inside him that's frustrated, and I wish him the best, I really do. I don't have anything against Will Smith. He's done great things. But that was not a good moment.”
On Sunday March 27, at the 94th Academy Awards, comedian-actor Chris Rock was left stunned at the 2022 Oscar night after Will Smith took to stage and slapped the comedian across the face Chris poked fun at Smith’s spouse Jada Pinkett Smith about her shaved head. For the unversed, Jada is suffering from auto-immune disease alopecia which results in hair loss.
Not only was Will Smith not removed from the event, but he got a standing ovation shortly thereafter when he won the Best Actor Oscar for King Richard. Smith issued an apology on social media Monday, March 28. Rock, who declined to press charges on Smith, has yet to publicly address the matter. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will conduct a formal review.
Also Read: The Weeknd’s new album Dawn FM features Jim Carrey in ‘Phantom Regret’ track honouring Prince
Vivek Agnihotri denies signing film with Kangana Ranaut; says, “My films don’t need stars. They need actors”
Vivek Agnihotri is currently the most sought-after filmmaker in India. A-listers may be shy of publicly acknowledging his stupendous success with The Kashmir Files. But secretly many of them now want to work with him. One story doing the rounds is that Kangana Ranaut and Vivek Agnihotri will be working together when in truth there is no such project in the pipeline.
Vivek is currently going around the country and the globe promoting The Kashmir Files, after which The Delhi Files which is complete, will be released. He has not even started to think of what he would like to make thereafter.
Speaking generally about working with stars Vivek Agnihotri in an interview with me this weekend said, “My films don’t need stars. They need actors. When I started my journey 12 years ago I decided I will make my kind of films and I will never make a star-driven film. I firmly believe cinema is the writer and director’s medium.”
Also Read: The Kashmir Files director Vivek Agnihotri says he owes a lot to Varun Dhawan; here’s why
Yas Island brand ambassador Ranveer Singh and his family receive UAE Golden Visas
Following the announcement of Ranveer Singh as the brand ambassador of Yas Island Abu Dhabi, one of the world’s leading leisure and entertainment destinations, the Bollywood icon and his family have been awarded UAE Golden Visas by the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture & Tourism. Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, CEO of Miral, handed Ranveer the prestigious 10-year residence visa at the Island’s Yas Marina Circuit HQ in the presence of Abdulaziz Al Dosari, Chief Support Services, and Badreyya Al Mazrooei, Head of Government & Travel Services from TwoFour54.
With the aim of inviting travellers from India to experience a vacation like no other, Yas Island recently launched the viral marketing campaign, ‘Yas Hai Khaas’ with Bollywood’s most boundary-pushing star, Ranveer Singh in a mesmerizing video showcasing an electrifying journey of the destination’s plethora of attractions, diversity of offerings and the warm Yas Island welcome.
Upon receiving the UAE Golden Visa, Ranveer Singh said, “My family and I are honoured to receive our UAE Golden Visas right here on Yas Island and I would like to thank the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture & Tourism for this privilege. As the Island’s brand ambassador, I hope to spread its message of fun and excitement while highlighting Abu Dhabi as a must-visit destination.”
On the work front, Ranveer Singh will next star in Jayeshbhai Jordaar, Cirkus, Anniyan remake, and Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani.
ALSO READ: "Ranveer Singh has delivered the performance of a lifetime" - Maneesh Sharma reveals how the special screening of Jayeshbhai Jordaar at YRF left everyone speechless
Tuesday, March 29, 2022
Ranveer Singh, Akshay Kumar, and Alia Bhatt are the most valued actors, according to the celebrity brand valuation report by Duff & Phelps
Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt's equity is on a meteoric rise, according to the Celebrity Brand Valuation Report by Duff & Phelps. Ranveer’s brand valuation currently stands at 158 Million USD, an impressive growth from his number of 102.93 Million USD in 2020. Thus, Ranveer ranks number 2 at this year’s report compared to Rank 3 last year.
According to Duff & Phelps report, Alia Bhatt emerged as the most valued female celebrity in 2021. With a valuation of $68.1 million, Alia Bhatt moved up two ranks with a brand value of $68.1 million at the fourth slot.
Here are the top 10 celebrities and their valuation in 2021 in million dollars:
Virat Kohli – 185.7
Ranveer Singh – 185.7
Akshay Kumar – 139.6
Alia Bhatt – 68.1
MS Dhoni – 61.2
Amitabh Bachchan – 54.2
Deepika Padukone – 51.6
Salman Khan — 51.6
Ayushmann Khurrana – 49.3
Hrithik Roshan – 48.5
In 2020, the following celebrities comprised the Top 10 rankings (value in million dollars)
Virat Kohli- 237.7
Akshay Kumar - 118.9
Ranveer Singh - 102.9
Shah Rukh Khan - 51.1
Deepika Padukone - 50.4
Alia Bhatt - 48.0
Ayushmann Khurrana - 48.0
Salman Khan - 45.0
Amitabh Bachchan - 44.2
Hrithik Roshan - 39.4
Ranveer’s brand value shot up with several new endorsements in 2021. The actor now has close to 40 brands across industries! Ranveer is also the hugely trusted face for multiple top brands in India, given his incredible acting credential and his ability to deliver back-to-back blockbusters on the big screen. He also has over 65 million followers across social media platforms.
BTS' Jungkook tests positive for COVID-19 upon arriving in Las Vegas for Grammys 2022, under self-quarantine
South Korean juggernaut BTS' member Jungkook has been diagnosed with COVID-19. The announcement was made on March 29, 2022 following which the musician has been getting treated and is under self-quarantine in the US. The musician arrived in Las Vegas this past weekend for Grammys 2022.
BIG HIT Music, on Tuesday, took their social media platform Weverse to release the statement that read, "Jung Kook was tested negative on a PCR test in Korea, and he departed for the United States on Sunday, March 27 (KST) in preparation for the Grammy Awards performance. After arriving in Las Vegas, he felt a slight discomfort in his throat and promptly took a rapid PCR test (COVID-19 molecular PCR test) and a standard PCR test (COVID-19 quantitative PCR test) on the afternoon of Sunday, March 27 (PT). While being under self-quarantine as a proactive measure, the result of both tests came back positive, and Jung Kook was confirmed with COVID-19 on Monday, March 28 (PT)."
"Jung Kook has been currently under self-quarantine and treatment, following the guidelines of health authorities in the United States. He is not exhibiting any symptoms other than a mild sore throat, and we will attentively monitor his health during the quarantine. Jung Kook's participation in the later schedule in the United States will be determined by the local regulations on COVID-19, while we are actively in discussion with the awards organizer," it further read.
"We would like to extend our sincerest apologies to our fans for causing you concern despite our effort to take all necessary measures for our artists’ health prior to and throughout the schedule in the United States. We ask for your generous understanding and support from all our fans. We will continue to provide support for the rapid recovery of Jung Kook, placing our highest priority on the health and safety of our artists. We will also continue to fully cooperate with the requests and guidelines of healthcare authorities," the statement concluded.
Jungkook becomes the seventh member to contract COVID-19 following SUGA, RM, Jin, Jimin, V, and J-Hope.
BTS are set to attend Grammys 2022 as nominees and performers. This marks the second year in a row that BTS, the first Korean pop act to be nominated and perform at the GRAMMYs, are considered for an award, and presenting a solo performance on the stage. Last year, the GRAMMY nominees staged a dazzling performance of their smash hit “Dynamite,” taking their dynamic gig from the GRAMMY stage to a rooftop overseeing a breathtaking night view of Seoul.
ALSO READ: BTS’ J-Hope diagnosed with COVID-19, undergoing treatment at home in self-quarantine
Monday, March 28, 2022
Pachinko star Jin Ha apologizes for sharing "inappropriate" photos of older Korean women on his blog without consent
Korean-American actor Jin Ha, who currently stars as Solomon Baek in Apple TV+ original series Pachinko, apologized for uploading photos of women without consent on his Tumblr account back in 2010-2011.The actor had reportedly uploaded around 90 photographs of middle-aged and elderly Korean women to his now-deleted blog “Korean Flowers in Bloom” in 2010 and 2011. The blog subsequently began to draw attention after the series premiered last week.
As reported by The Korea Times, many of the photographs were taken in public areas like metro stations and streets with their faces revealed without pixilation. His posts were also often accompanied by overtly sexual captions. However, over the weekend on March 26, Jin Ha shared an apology statement on his personal website. “Thank you for giving me the opportunity to talk about my mistakes,” he began.
“I completely accept all the criticism I have received. It is true that my Tumblr account, “Korean Flowers in Bloom,” which I’ve had since 2011, should never have existed,” the statement continued. “I trespassed on the privacy of the women in the photos on the account, and the comments I added to the photos were inappropriate. I regret my actions and am sincerely sorry.”
“I did wrong in taking those photos and uploading them online 11 years ago. Furthermore, I failed to take into consideration the negative impact and left the account as it was for many years. I sent a request to Tumblr to delete my account and they have now done so. “Korean Flowers in Bloom” no longer exists,” wrote the actor.
Jin Ha further added, “Once again, I apologize to the women in the photos that I took. I also apologize to those who felt uncomfortable at the content of my Tumblr account. I can only be grateful that my lack of judgment in 2011 has been criticized by more clear-eyed readers than me. Thank you again for giving me the opportunity to rectify my mistakes.”
Finishing his apology letter, he wrote, “I should have been better from the start, but even if I realized too late, thank you for helping me realize what I’d done wrong. I will work hard and study in future so as not to repeat the same mistakes. Sincerely, Jin Ha.”
Prior to Pachinko, Jin Ha starred in American TV shows like Devs and Love Life, as well as the musical Hamilton.
Also Read: Lee Min Ho, Youn Yuh Jung, Jin Ha starrer Pachinko first photos unveiled by Apple TV+
Snoop Dogg confirms collaboration with BTS - "It's official like a referee with a whistle'
American rapper Snoop Dogg will officially collaborate with South Korean juggernaut BTS on an upcoming project. During the American Song Contest red carpet, Snoop Dogg revealed that collaboration is indeed in the works.
During a talk with The A.V. Club, he confirmed that he would be collaborating with BTS on new music but that he was waiting for BTS to reveal the details to the public. “The BTS experience you keep talking about. I’m going to let them tell you about it. It’s official, like a referee with a whistle.”
“I love that entertainment world,” he added emphasizing on his love for K-Pop. “It’s good music. It’s [a] vibe. I make good music. They make good music. And we end up doing this. This is what it’s always about, bringing our worlds together.”
Earlier in January, Snoop Dogg revealed that BTS had contacted him about a potential collaboration. “I got a group named BTS that’s waiting on me to do a song with them right now. And I’m trying to figure out if I got time to do that,” said the rapper in an interview with the Mogul Talk podcast.
The 50-year-old global rapper has previously collaborated with various Korean artists including Girls’ Generation, 2NE1, PSY, and MONSTA X while musical sensation BTS has also collaborated with a number of solo artists from Hollywood including Steve Aoki, The Chainsmokers, Nicki Minaj, Halsey, Lauv, Coldplay, Megan Thee Stallion among others.
Also Read: Snoop Dogg sued over alleged sexual assault and battery ahead of Super Bowl Halftime performance
BREAKING: The Kashmir Files to release on Zee5 only after completing 8 weeks in cinemas; OTT premiere might be delayed if the film continues its golden run at the box office
Before the pandemic struck, it was mandatory that all Bollywood films can be released on digital platforms only after completing 8 weeks in cinemas. This rule was relaxed in the pandemic era. As a result, films were allowed to be streamed only after 4 weeks of release on the big screen. Nevertheless, a few films are going the pre-pandemic way. Alia Bhatt’s hit film, Gangubai Kathiawadi, will be released on Netflix 8 weeks after its theatrical release. Interestingly, the makers had decided upon this strategy even before it was released in cinemas. Meanwhile, this week’s big-budget film, RRR, will be released on Netflix 75 to 90 days later.
And now, Bollywood Hungama has learnt that The Kashmir Files too shall follow suit. There were reports that the blockbuster flick will be released on Zee5 in the third week of April, that is, in its 6th week. A source, however, told, Bollywood Hungama, “The Kashmir Files will not be out on Zee5 before completing 8 weeks in cinemas.”
When prodded for details, the source said, “Even before the film was out, it was decided that it’ll not premiere on OTT before 8 weeks. Now that the film is doing extraordinary business, the idea is to keep pushing it in cinemas as much as possible. Not just the usual moviegoing audience, many who haven’t stepped in a cinema hall for years have gone to see The Kashmir Files. The film is in the third week and even right now, there’s a lot of demand for the film, with the makers getting requests even from far-flung areas. It has managed to sustain itself despite the release of the much loved film, RRR. Hence, Zee Studios and the other stakeholders haven’t decided on a date for the digital release. However, it won’t be out on Zee5 before 8 weeks. There’s no need to compromise on the blockbuster theatrical run.”
The Kashmir Files was released in cinemas on March 11. It’ll complete 8 weeks on April 29. In other words, the film will be out on digital not before May 2022.
Starring Anupam Kher, Mithun Chakraborty, Pallavi Joshi and Darshan Kumaar, The Kashmir Files is directed by Vivek Agnihotri. The film is in the news thanks to its unbelievable box office collections. Its day 1 earnings were just Rs. 3.55 crore. But the collections jumped dramatically from day 2 and in no time, it got an entry into the Rs. 100 crore club and even Rs. 200 crore club, After 17 days, its collections stand at around Rs. 228.18 crore. The trade expects The Kashmir Files to hit the Rs. 250 crore mark soon.
After Radhe Shyam debacle, makers of Prabhas starrer Salaar to undergo script revisions, reshoots and re-edits?
Not yet a panic attack; but there is definitely a sense of anxiety among the producers and directors of Prabhas starrers in Andhra Pradesh after the abysmal non-performance of Radhe Shyam at the Indian box office. Radhe Shyam, touted as the Baahubali superstar’s first unalloyed love story, sank not only in the Hindi belt but also in Prabhas home-state Andhra and Telangana, thereby sending shock waves in the distribution business.
The most immediately affected project is Prabhas’ next Salaar, directed by Prashanth Neel the Kannada director of the cult hit KGF. According to sources from Hyderabad, Salaar has gone back to the drawing board for some serious script revision. Some scenes will be re-shot. Some will be edited out; Salaar is going through a pre-release revamp.
The informed source reveals, “Prabhas cannot afford any risks at this sensitive juncture of his career. He now knows his fans want him doing action. Salaar is being modified accordingly.”
Saif Ali Khan and Jacqueline Fernandez announced as brand ambassadors for Goldmedal Electricals
Goldmedal Electricals today announced that it has onboarded Bollywood superstars Saif Ali Khan and Jacqueline Fernandez as its brand ambassadors. The duo will be the new faces for the brand and play a pivotal role in consolidating Goldmedal’s foothold across the nation.
Over the last decade, Goldmedal has displayed an impressive growth trajectory to become a prominent brand in the sector. The brand has built a reputation in the industry for manufacturing high-quality and innovative electrical products. Goldmedal’s extensive product portfolio includes switches, home automation systems, LEDs, wires & cables, DBs, PVC pipes, electrical accessories, and more. Goldmedal has recently ventured into the fans segment and launched a range of premium and standard fans.
Goldmedal has a pan-India presence through its branches and a wide and established network of dealers and retailers. To connect with their consumers more closely, Goldmedal is collaborating with two of Bollywood’s most stylish and popular actors, Saif Ali Khan and Jacqueline Fernandez. This association with the attractive pair will not only strengthen Goldmedal’s connection with its consumers but also emphasize the amazing aesthetics of their products. The announcement is part of Goldmedal’s brand outreach plans.
Commenting on the new brand ambassadors, Kishan Jain, Director at Goldmedal Electricals said, “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Saif and Jacqueline to the Goldmedal family. Our focus has always been on innovation, design, and uncompromising quality. Saif Ali Khan and Jacqueline Fernandez, with their talent, stylish demeanour, iconic on-screen chemistry, and wide appeal, were an obvious choice to represent our brand.”
Commenting on the association, Saif Ali Khan said, “My association with Goldmedal goes way back and it is good to collaborate with them again. Goldmedal’s brand philosophy of innovation in design and performance is truly amazing and I am looking forward to working with the brand.”
Commenting on the collaboration, Jacqueline Fernandez said, “I am thrilled to collaborate with a brand like Goldmedal that has such an incredible line of products. To me, hi-tech products should be as stylish as they are functional and Goldmedal products perfectly aligned with that ideology. I am excited to work with Saif and the Goldmedal team.”
Saif Ali Khan and Jacqueline Fernandez will feature across Goldmedal brand and product communication in the form of advertisements on television, print, outdoor and social media.
ALSO READ: John Abraham teaches dance to Shilpa Shetty, Jacqueline Fernandez and Rakul Preet; watch
Lee Minho and Gong Hyo Jin confirmed to star in new space romance comedy drama Ask The Stars
South Korean star Lee Minho will reportedly share screen with Gong Hyo Jin for an upcoming romanctic space comedy drama titled Ask The Stars.
According to Soompi, Ask The Stars will follow the story of an astronaut and a tourist who meet and fall in love at a space station. On March 28, it was confirmed that Lee Minho will play the lead role of Gong Ryong, a responsible OB-GYN (obstetrician-gynecologist) who arrives at the space station as a tourist. Gong Hyo Jin will transform into a Korean-American astronaut Eve Kim.
Currently slated to premiere in 2023, the upcoming romantic comedy is penned by writer Seo Sook Hyang and helmed by It’s Okay to Not Be Okay’s Park Shin Woo. Ask the Stars reportedly also has a massive filming budget with a filming set of a space station costing around 40 billion KRW (approximately 33.8 million USD), and is scheduled to begin filming in April.
Lee Minho is currently starring in the Apple TV+ original series Pachinko, based on the best-selling novel of the same name. Meanwhile, Gong Hyo Jin last appeared in the smash hit drama When the Camellia Blooms. The new drama will mark the first project together for the two stars.
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