Category: TV & FILM

The fourth Bangladesh Short and Documentary Film Festival runs May 27-31 across eight divisional cities, organized by Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy. From 322 submissions, 89 films were selected (60 fiction shorts, 29 documentaries). Awards include Best Film (TK 150,000), Best Director (TK 100,000), and special categories. Filmmaker Anam Biswas will inaugurate; Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostafa Sarwar Farooki will close the festival.READ FULL

Scarlett Johansson’s directorial debut “Eleanor the Great” received a five-minute standing ovation at Cannes Film Festival. Starring June Squibb, the film follows a 94-year-old woman navigating grief and friendship after personal tragedy. Johansson called the premiere “a dream come true” while praising her cast’s performances. She also appears in Wes Anderson’s “The Phoenician Scheme,” which premiered at this year’s festival.READ FULL

During the Cannes press conference for “Eddington,” Pedro Pascal made a personal political statement about Trump’s America. The actor shared his family’s experience fleeing Chile’s dictatorship and emphasized storytelling as resistance against fear-driven politics. His comments come as the US reinstates stricter immigration policies, including a voluntary return program offering $1,000 to undocumented migrants.READ FULL

Bangladesh’s popular talent competition Lux Channel i Superstar is returning after a seven-year break, with registration now open for women aged 18-27. The show, which launched careers of celebrities like Mehazabien Chowdhury and Bidya Sinha Mim, has added content creation skills to its judging criteria. Actress Jaya Ahsan, former winner Mehazabien, and filmmaker Raihan Rafi will lead this season’s revamped format.READ FULL

Veteran actor Paresh Rawal has confirmed his departure from “Hera Pheri 3” due to creative differences, shocking fans of the iconic comedy franchise. Many have expressed disappointment online, with some calling for the film’s cancellation. Despite feeling “suffocated” by his Babu Rao character, Rawal maintains a busy schedule with upcoming projects including “Bhooth Bangla” and “Welcome to the Jungle.”READ FULL

In celebration of Rabindranath Tagore’s birth anniversary, four notable film adaptations of his works are highlighted: Rituparno Ghosh’s “Chokher Bali” (2003), which powerfully portrays a widow’s autonomy; Anurag Basu’s Netflix series “Stories by Rabindranath Tagore” (2015), featuring strong female characters; Ghosh’s “Chitrangada: The Crowning Wish” (2012), exploring gender identity; and Bangladeshi film “Shasti” (2004), depicting the harsh realities women faced in male-dominated society.READ FULL

Actress Jenna Ortega reveals she’s been developing a personal script for nearly ten years and is now taking concrete steps toward directing it. While currently balancing acting and executive producing roles in projects like “Wednesday” and “Death of a Unicorn,” Ortega says directing is her ultimate goal. She views her current on-screen presence as a strategic stepping stone toward a future behind the camera..READ FULL

After four weeks in theaters, Shakib Khan’s “Borbaad” leads Eid releases with an impressive Tk 62.57 crore gross across 72 venues. The film continues strong with 39 weekly screenings at Star Cineplex. Meanwhile, “Daagi” has earned over Tk 7 crore, while “Jongli” reports Tk 2.31 crore from multiplexes, with both films maintaining steady showtimes.READ FULL

Netflix has finally set July 2, 2025, as the premiere date for “The Old Guard 2,” nearly three years after filming wrapped. Charlize Theron returns as Andy, alongside both original cast members and newcomers including Uma Thurman and Henry Golding. Directed by Victoria Mahoney, the sequel follows the immortal warriors facing new threats as Andy deals with her newfound mortality.READ FULL

Information and Broadcasting Adviser Mahfuj Alam announced multiple measures to enhance the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation’s operational capacity. During a ministry focus group discussion, he emphasized utilizing the film industry’s market potential and expediting the Kabirpur film city project. Officials stressed the need for infrastructure renovation and skill enhancement, with BFDC’s managing director requesting government support for ongoing reforms.READ FULL

Lucasfilm has announced “Star Wars: Starfighter,” starring Ryan Gosling and directed by Shawn Levy, set for release on May 28, 2027. Revealed at Star Wars Celebration in Tokyo, the film will take place five years after “The Rise of Skywalker” with an entirely new cast of characters. Production begins this fall, following Levy’s successful “Deadpool & Wolverine” and preceding “The Mandalorian & Grogu” in the theatrical lineup.READ FULL

Three weeks after Eid, Siam Ahmed’s film “Jongli” continues to attract audiences with sold-out showings. Daily screenings have nearly tripled since its release, reaching 28 shows across all multiplexes today. The M Raahim-directed film is now running in numerous single-screen theaters and will release internationally on April 25. Meanwhile, Shakib Khan’s “Borbaad” maintains strong performance with 35 daily multiplex screenings.READ FULL

New forensic evidence reveals 19 of 20 fingerprints from the crime scene don’t match prime suspect Mohammad Shariful Islam. The Mumbai Police chargesheet, submitted April 8, shows only one print links Shariful to actor Shehzad Saif’s murder. Police claim unmatched prints may belong to others present. The investigation also alleges illegal money transfers to Bangladesh through Shariful’s connections.READ FULL

Legendary Bollywood actor-filmmaker Manoj Kumar, known as ‘Bharat Kumar’ for his patriotic films, died at 86 from a heart attack at Mumbai’s Kokilaben Hospital. He had been battling liver cirrhosis. Prime Minister Modi expressed condolences, praising Kumar’s “patriotic zeal” in cinema. The Padma Shri and Dadasaheb Phalke Award recipient starred in classics like “Upkar,” “Shaheed,” and “Kranti,” leaving behind a remarkable legacy in Indian cinema.READ FULL

“Avatar: Fire and Ash,” the third film in James Cameron’s sci-fi saga, revealed its first trailer at CinemaCon. The footage introduces two new Na’vi tribes – the peaceful Wind Traders and their rivals, the Ash People who’ve abandoned their goddess Eywa. Following the events of “The Way of Water,” the Sully family faces both human threats and new enemies. The film is on schedule for December 19 release.READ FULL

Val Kilmer, 65, has passed away after battling throat cancer. The Hollywood star, famous for roles in “Top Gun,” “Batman Forever,” “The Doors,” and “Heat,” made his final appearance in “Top Gun: Maverick.” The New York Times confirmed his death today. His career was celebrated in the 2021 documentary “Val,” and his films have earned over $3.5 billion worldwide.READ FULL

Emraan Hashmi announced “Awarapan 2”, a sequel to his 2007 cult classic, set to release on April 3, 2026. Directed by Nitin Kakkar and written by Bilal Siddiqi, the film continues the story of a hitman’s destiny. Hashmi shared a teaser video highlighting the original film’s themes and dramatic moments.READ FULL

Hollywood star Tom Cruise will be honored with the prestigious BFI Fellowship on May 12, 2025, in London. The award recognizes his 40+ years of filmmaking in the UK. BFI Chair Jay Hunt praised Cruise’s contributions to British film industry, including his work on the Mission: Impossible series. The latest installment, “Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning,” releases May 23, 2025.READ FULL

Director Carl Erik Rinsch was arrested for allegedly defrauding Netflix of $11 million meant for his sci-fi show “White Horse.” Prosecutors claim Rinsch diverted funds to cryptocurrency investments and personal purchases, including multiple Rolls-Royces, a Ferrari, luxury furniture, and designer goods. After losing half the money in investments, he reportedly used crypto profits to fund his lavish spending spree.READ FULL

Mymensingh’s historic Purobi Cinema Hall is being demolished to make way for a commercial market, with potential plans for a future cineplex. The demolition comes earlier than expected, just before Eid-ul-Fitr film releases. Purobi was one of five original cinema halls in the city and survived a deadly 2002 bombing by militant group JMB that killed 17 people. Only one cinema hall, Chayabani, will remain in Mymensingh.READ FULL

Christopher Nolan’s upcoming adaptation of Homer’s “The Odyssey” has generated excitement after photos emerged showing filming on a real wooden ship in Greece. The film stars Tom Holland alongside an all-star cast including Matt Damon, Zendaya, and Robert Pattinson. Fans are praising Nolan’s commitment to practical effects over CGI. The highly anticipated epic is scheduled for release on July 17, 2026.READ FULL

Alia Bhatt has confirmed she will make her debut at the 78th Cannes International Film Festival, scheduled for May 13-24, 2025. During a recent press conference, she expressed her excitement with a brief statement: “I am looking forward to it.” This marks another prestigious international appearance for Bhatt, who has previously attended the Met Gala and made her Paris Fashion Week debut in 2024. Other Indian celebrities who regularly attend Cannes include Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Sonam Kapoor, and Deepika Padukone.READ FULL

Filmmaker Jon Bolerjack’s upcoming documentary exposes the troubling final years of Marvel legend Stan Lee, who died in 2018 at age 95. The film contrasts Lee’s energetic public persona with his private struggles, showing him physically exhausted while maintaining a grueling schedule. Bolerjack, who became part of Lee’s inner circle, documents the comic creator’s battles with betrayal and financial issues, presenting what he calls a cautionary tale about fame’s dark side.READ FULL

Sharon Stone is reportedly in talks to join HBO’s “Euphoria” season 3, alongside new cast additions including Rosalia, Marshawn Lynch, and Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje. Production has resumed after a three-year hiatus, with Martha Kelly and Chloe Cherry promoted to regular roles. The new season will feature a time jump beyond high school years and is expected to premiere in 2026.READ FULL

Police have directed Tollywood star Allu Arjun to keep his planned hospital visit to an injured eight-year-old stampede victim private to maintain public order. The incident, which occurred during a “Pushpa 2” promotional event on December 4, resulted in the death of the child’s mother. Meanwhile, “Pushpa 2: The Rule” has become India’s highest-grossing film, surpassing “Baahubali 2” with Rs 1,438 crore in domestic earnings.READ FULL

Jared Leto has been cast as Skeletor in the upcoming “Masters of the Universe” film, joining Nicholas Galitzine as He-Man. Directed by Travis Knight, the cast includes Alison Brie, Camila Mendes, and Idris Elba. Leto is also in final negotiations to join “Assassination,” a JFK thriller featuring Al Pacino and Jessica Chastain, where he’ll add to his portfolio of villain roles.READ FULL

Blake Lively has filed a sexual harassment lawsuit against Justin Baldoni, her co-star and director of “It Ends with Us.” The lawsuit alleges inappropriate behavior during filming, including unwanted sexual content additions and personal comments. Following the allegations, WME agency dropped Baldoni. His lawyer denies all claims, calling them “categorically false” and accusing Lively of making demands that could have impacted the film’s release.READ FULL

Telugu actor Allu Arjun was released from jail on Saturday after being arrested in connection with a fatal theatre stampede during ‘Pushpa 2’ screening. His lawyer claimed the detention was illegal, arguing the jail didn’t comply with a Telangana High Court bail order. One woman died and her son was injured during the incident on December 4 when Arjun appeared at the Sandhya Theatre.READ FULL

Bollywood actress Triptii Dimri has been named IMDb’s Most Popular Indian Star of 2024, surpassing established stars like Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone. The ranking is based on page views from IMDb’s global monthly visitors. Known for her role in “Animal,” Dimri will appear in three films this year: “Bad Newz,” “Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video,” and “Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3.” She expressed gratitude for her fans’ support.READ FULL

In a recent BBC interview, actress Cate Blanchett expressed deep concerns about artificial intelligence, warning of its potential to harm humanity. While promoting her film “Rumours”, she highlighted AI’s ability to replicate voices and criticized technological advancements as potentially destructive, emphasizing the broader societal implications beyond her own profession.READ FULL

“Gladiator II” premieres in Bangladesh today, ahead of its November 22 US release. Directed by Ridley Scott, the $310 million sequel follows Lucius’s story years after the original film, starring Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, and Denzel Washington. The film features notable scenes, including an intense rhino battle. The original “Gladiator” (2000) earned $465 million worldwide and won five Oscars, including Best Picture.READ FULL

South Korean actor Song Jae-rim, 39, was found dead in his Seoul residence on November 12, 2024, with a two-page note discovered at the scene. Originally a model for major fashion brands, Song transitioned to acting in 2009 and gained fame through dramas like “Moon Embracing the Sun” and “We Got Married.” His final roles included performances in “Queen Woo” and “My Military Valentine” in 2024. A funeral is scheduled for November 14 at Yeouido St Mary’s Hospital.READ FULL

Quincy Jones, legendary music producer and cultural icon, died Sunday at age 91. Known as “Q,” he shaped modern music through collaborations with artists from Frank Sinatra to Michael Jackson, producing landmark albums including “Thriller.” In his 65-year career, Jones won 27 Grammys, scored numerous films, and produced “We Are the World.” He helped create Jackson’s biggest hits and revolutionized pop music. His work with Jackson’s “Thriller” led to the best-selling album of all time.READ FULL

Shah Rukh Khan’s Mumbai mansion Mannat has been decorated with dazzling Diwali lights ahead of both the festival and his 59th birthday on November 2. A viral video shows the beautifully lit residence with fans gathering outside. Known for hosting grand Diwali parties for Bollywood celebrities, the Khan family continues their festive tradition. Other celebrities like Rohit Shetty and Kartik Aaryan have also decorated their homes for the celebration.READ FULL

“Ritu Kamini,” a new Bangladeshi film directed by Zahid Hossain and produced by Moazzem Hussain, focuses on Bangladesh’s battle with climate change. The film portrays communities struggling with rising sea levels and erratic weather patterns. Starring Abdun Noor Shajal, Adhora Khan, Fazlur Rahman Babu, and Deepa Khandakar, it highlights the intimate connection between nature and people’s lives while addressing environmental challenges faced by vulnerable populations.READ FULL

Hollywood star Timothée Chalamet made a surprise appearance at his own lookalike contest in New York’s Lower Manhattan. The event, which offered a $50 prize, was initially held at Washington Square Park before being dispersed by police. The contest relocated to a nearby playground, where Miles Mitchell, dressed as Willy Wonka, won the competition. The organizers were fined $500 for hosting an unauthorized costume contest, and one participant was reportedly arrested.READ FULL