Category: TV & FILM

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

Ekushey Padak laureate Abul Hayat’s autobiography “Robi Poth” is set to launch on November 2 at Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy. The book release event, organized by the Actors’ Association, will feature critic Syed Manzoorul Islam as chief guest. Additionally, Hayat stars in a new web-film “Ondhokarer Gaan,” directed by Vicky Zahed, where he plays a wealthy father. The veteran actor expresses his intention to be more selective with future projects.READ FULL

Popular Indian crime show “CID” is set to return on Sony TV after a six-year hiatus, with original cast members Shivaji Satam and Aditya Srivastava reprising their roles. The show’s teaser has been released, with a full promo launching today. Expected to air in December, the revival brings back the beloved series that ran for 20 years (1998-2018) with 1,547 episodes. Production will begin soon.READ FULL

During her recent visit to Mumbai, Priyanka Chopra discussed the key differences between working in Bollywood and Hollywood in a Forbes India interview. She highlighted Hollywood’s extensive paperwork and strict scheduling, contrasting it with Bollywood’s more flexible ‘jugaad’ approach. The actress, who misses Bollywood’s dancing and lip-syncing, is set to appear in upcoming Hollywood projects “Heads of State” and “The Bluff.”READ FULL

Star Cineplex in Bangladesh is releasing three Hollywood films today. The highly anticipated “Joker: Folie a Deux,” sequel to Todd Phillips’ 2019 “Joker,” headlines the lineup. This release comes five years after the original film’s debut, which set high expectations for the follow-up. Alongside “Joker 2,” audiences can also enjoy the horror sci-fi film “Alien: Romulus” and the latest installment in the Transformers franchise, “Transformers One.” These releases offer diverse options for moviegoers at Star Cineplex.READ FULL

Netflix is developing a new series adaptation of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice,” with author Dolly Alderton writing the script. While casting and official approval are pending, this follows Netflix’s 2022 adaptation of Austen’s “Persuasion.” The classic novel has seen multiple screen adaptations, including the popular 2005 film and 1995 BBC miniseries. Alderton, known for her memoir “Everything I Know About Love,” has previously adapted her work for television. This news comes alongside BBC’s announcement of a spinoff series focused on Mary Bennet.READ FULL

Actress Kushum Shikder’s directorial debut “Shoroter Joba,” adapted from her 2017 short story, premieres today at Star Cineplex and Jamuna Blockbuster. The film, which Shikder wrote, produced, and stars in, tells the story of a reclusive woman dealing with unrequited love and mysterious deaths. Despite concerns about releasing during Durga Puja, Shikder proceeded with the launch. The film features a strong cast including Yash Rohan and Jeetu Ahsan.READ FULL

Six Bengali films with Durga Puja festivities at their core.”Ekannoborti” (2021), exploring three generations of women; “Asur” (2020), a romantic thriller set around Kolkata’s largest Durga idol; “Durgeshgorer Guptodhon” (2019), an adventure mystery; “Mahalaya” (2019), depicting a historical radio controversy; “Uma” (2018), about fulfilling a dying girl’s wish; and “Durga Sohay” (2017), a suspenseful family drama. These films showcase how the festival enriches Bengali cinema’s storytelling.READ FULL

“Latika,” a Bangladeshi documentary by Samsul Islam Shopon, will represent Bangladesh at the COP29 climate summit in Baku, Azerbaijan this November. The film, which chronicles the life of a woman from the Malo community in Narail and her family’s traditional otter-fishing practice, has already garnered international recognition at various film festivals. The documentary highlights both cultural preservation and environmental issues facing Bangladesh’s indigenous communities.READ FULL

Bollywood actor Govinda, 60, was injured when his licensed revolver accidentally misfired at his Mumbai home. The incident occurred early morning as he prepared to leave for a flight to Kolkata. Govinda sustained a bullet wound to his leg and was briefly hospitalized. His manager reported that the revolver fell and discharged while being stored. Police confirmed the incident, though no formal complaint was filed.READ FULL

Superstar Rajinikanth, 73, was admitted to Apollo Hospitals in Chennai due to severe abdominal pain. He’s scheduled for a medical procedure on Tuesday, with his condition reported as stable. Rajinikanth’s upcoming film “Vettaiyan,” his 170th, is set for release on October 10. The movie features a star-studded cast including Amitabh Bachchan and Fahadh Faasil. His previous film “Jailer” was a major box office success.READ FULL

The Bangladeshi film “Boli” has premiered in Canada at Mississauga’s Central Parkway Cinema, marking its international debut. Directed by Iqbal Hossain Chowdhury, the film has won accolades at several international festivals, including Busan and Shanghai. Set against the backdrop of Jabbar’s Wrestling Competition in Chattogram, “Boli” stars Nasir Uddin Khan. While it’s yet to be released in Bangladesh, the director aims for a domestic release by year-end, pending clearance from the Film Certification Board.READ FULL

Maggie Smith, known for her role as Professor McGonagall in the Harry Potter series, has passed away at 89. Daniel Radcliffe, who played Harry Potter, paid tribute to the iconic actress. He recalled first meeting Smith at age nine while working on “David Copperfield” and praised her intellect and wit. Radcliffe expressed gratitude for having worked with Smith, describing her ability to both intimidate and charm. The Harry Potter community mourns the loss of the beloved actress.READ FULL

Indian megastar K Chiranjeevi received a Guinness World Records certificate in Hyderabad for being the most prolific actor in Indian cinema. Over his 45-year career, he performed 24,000 dance moves in 537 songs across 156 films. Bollywood actor Aamir Khan and Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy praised the achievement. Chiranjeevi, known for his work in multiple languages, expressed surprise at the honor and gratitude for the recognition of his extensive career in dance and acting.READ FULL

Veteran actress Shabnam, 79, was offered a position on the newly renamed Bangladesh Film Certification Board but declined due to health reasons. The board, formerly known as the Film Censor Board, approached Shabnam to fill one of two vacant positions following recent resignations. Despite being honored by the offer, Shabnam explained that her current health condition and regular doctor visits prevent her from taking on such responsibilities. She expressed gratitude to the ministry for considering her for the role.READ FULL

Acclaimed Bollywood director Karan Johar is set to create his first solo OTT series for Netflix. The high-budget project, described as a personal labor of love, will feature prominent female actors. Screenplay completion has been announced, with filming scheduled to begin in early 2025 and a 2026 release planned. The series is entering its casting phase, aiming to assemble a star-studded lineup. After this, Johar plans to return to cinema with an epic-scale action film.READ FULL

Johnny Depp will receive a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Rome Film Festival, where his directorial feature “Modì” will be showcased. The film, about Italian artist Amedeo Modigliani, stars Riccardo Scamarcio and depicts a crucial 72-hour period in the artist’s life during World War I. The festival runs from October 16 to 27, with “Modì” featuring in the non-competitive Grand Public section. This project marks one of Depp’s first major undertakings following his highly publicized defamation trial against ex-wife Amber Heard.READ FULL

The film “Unplugged,” directed by Sheikh Al Mamun, is in production, depicting the struggles of a remittance worker. Co-produced by Saiful Jarnal and supported by the Korean Film Council, it’s 40% complete with filming expected to finish by October. The screenplay has won an award, and the film is set to be showcased at international festivals. This marks Mamun’s feature film debut after creating several documentaries on workers’ lives.READ FULL

The Emmy Awards honored top television achievements, with historical drama “Shogun” winning best drama series and acting awards for its Japanese stars Hiroyuki Sanada and Anna Sawai. In a surprise upset, “Hacks” claimed best comedy series over favorite “The Bear.” Netflix’s “Baby Reindeer” took home the award for best limited series. The ceremony celebrated diverse storytelling, with winners spanning historical epics, contemporary comedies, and intense limited series.READ FULL

Indian filmmaker Soham Shah has sued Netflix for allegedly copying the plot of his 2009 film “Luck” for the hit series “Squid Game.” Shah claims striking similarities in plot, characters, and themes. Netflix denies the allegations, stating “Squid Game” was created by Hwang Dong-hyuk. Shah seeks compensation and a court order to stop Netflix from violating his copyrights. “Squid Game” became Netflix’s most successful launch, with 1.65 billion hours streamed in four weeks. A second season is set to debut on December 26, with a final season planned for 2025.READ FULL

Star Cineplex, Bangladesh’s first multiplex chain, is offering a “buy one, get one free” ticket promotion from September 10-12. The offer applies to all pre-evening shows and in-person counter purchases only. Senior marketing officer Mesbah Uddin announced the promotion, which aims to enhance the movie-going experience. Current screenings include “Toofan,” “Twisters,” and “Deadpool vs Wolverine.” Star Cineplex, operating since 2004, now has seven locations across the country, with plans to open six more branches soon.READ FULL

Legendary actor James Earl Jones, best known as the voice of Darth Vader in “Star Wars”, has died at 93. His agent confirmed he passed away peacefully Monday morning. Jones had a distinguished career in film, TV, and theater, winning multiple awards including Tonys, Emmys, and an honorary Oscar. He voiced iconic characters in “The Lion King” and “Field of Dreams”. Tributes poured in from fellow actors and the entertainment industry, praising his talent, grace, and lasting influence on cinema.READ FULL

The 81st Venice Film Festival concluded with Pedro Almodovar’s “The Room Next Door” winning the Golden Lion. Nicole Kidman and Vincent Lindon won Best Actress and Actor respectively. The Silver Lion went to Maura Delpero’s “Vermiglio,” while Brady Corbet won Best Director for “The Brutalist.” Other winners included Murilo Hauser and Heitor Lorega for Best Screenplay, and Paul Kircher for Best Young Actor. The festival, known for launching Oscar contenders, featured a jury headed by French actress Isabelle Huppert.READ FULL

Beloved actor Abul Hayat celebrates his 80th birthday, reflecting on his illustrious career with The Daily Star. He expresses gratitude for his long life and continued passion for acting. The Drama Artists’ Association plans a special event to honor him. Hayat acknowledges his wife’s crucial support throughout his career. He remains optimistic about Bangladesh’s future and the younger generation. Hayat also reveals the completion of his autobiography, “Robi Poth,” a decade-long project covering various aspects of his life journey.READ FULL

Keanu Reeves, now 60, continues to be a major Hollywood star with five upcoming film projects. These include a potential “John Wick” sequel, a role in “Sonic the Hedgehog 3,” and a part in Ruben Östlund’s “The Entertainment System is Down.” Reeves is also working on a live-action adaptation of his comic book “BRZRKR” for Netflix. Additionally, he’s ventured into literature with his debut novel “The Book of Elsewhere” and maintains successful business ventures in motorcycles and publishing. READ FULL

Shakib Khan’s Eid-ul-Azha release “Toofan” has been a massive hit in theaters, both in Bangladesh and internationally. After its successful theatrical run in nearly 20 countries, the film is now set for its OTT debut. Director Raihan Rafi announced on Facebook that “Toofan” will be released simultaneously on two major Bangladeshi streaming platforms, Chorki and Hoichoi. This rare collaboration is expected to be a treat for audiences, though the exact release date is yet to be announced.READ FULL

Netflix is reportedly developing a sequel series to “One Tree Hill”, with original stars Sophia Bush, Hilarie Burton, and Daneel Ackles as executive producers. Becky Hartman-Edwards will write and produce. Warner Bros Television is expected to produce. Bush and Burton are likely to reprise their roles, with Ackles in talks to return. Other original cast members’ involvement is uncertain. The original creator, Mark Schwahn, accused of assault and harassment, is not involved. The new series marks a return of the popular show that ran for nine seasons on The WB and The CW.READ FULL

Angelina Jolie stars as opera legend Maria Callas in Pablo Larrain’s biopic “Maria,” premiering at the Venice Film Festival. The film focuses on Callas’s final years in Paris, reflecting on her life and career. Jolie, returning to the screen after a hiatus, studied for six months to capture Callas’s voice and persona. The movie is part of Larrain’s trilogy on iconic women and competes for the Golden Lion prize at the festival.READ FULL

Actress Rokeya Prachi has been removed from her position as vice president of the Television and Digital Program Producers’ Association of Bangladesh (Telepab) amid allegations of disciplinary breaches. This comes in the wake of broader reforms following events on August 5. Prachi, known for her involvement in Awami League politics, was attacked on August 14 while paying respects on National Mourning Day. She had held the Telepab vice president position for less than two months before her dismissal. Daily Star

The film “Toofan,” starring Shakib Khan, has been released in Malaysia after two delays. It’s currently screening in 12 theaters with 25 daily shows, most of which are selling out. The film is particularly popular among expatriates. Showtimes vary across different theaters in Kuala Lumpur, Jahur Baru, and Penang City. Advance tickets are available online. Directed by Raihan Rafi, the film features a star-studded cast including Chanchal Chowdhury and Mimi Chakraborty. Daily Star

Francis Ford Coppola’s “Megalopolis” trailer debuted, starring Adam Driver. The film, set for release on September 27, presents a fantastical “Roman Epic in reimagined Modern America.” Coppola addresses past critics and recent backlash in the trailer. The production faced budget overruns and delays. Allegations of sexual harassment during filming emerged, which Coppola denies. The movie explores themes of utopian ambition and conflicting ideologies, with Driver’s character mirroring Coppola’s visionary outlook.

Kareena Kapoor Khan’s much-anticipated crime thriller “The Buckingham Murders” is set to hit theaters in September. Directed by Hansal Mehta, the film marks Kareena’s debut as a co-producer and her first collaboration with the acclaimed filmmaker. The actress takes on a darker, more intense role as a detective investigating the murder of a child. The gripping teaser has already generated excitement among audiences. Daily Star

Filmmaker MK Zaman is set to direct “Mother of Democracy,” a biopic about BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, following Sheikh Hasina’s regime end. The film, produced by Akhond Entertainment PLC, is scheduled to begin shooting on September 25. Zaman claims to have obtained Khaleda Zia’s permission and says the film will reveal “true democracy in Bangladesh.” The cast remains undisclosed, with the director promising surprises in the announcement. Daily Star

The Bangladeshi blockbuster film “Toofan,” starring Shakib Khan, is set to release in Malaysia on August 23 after success in multiple countries. The film will be screened in about 15 theaters in Bangladeshi community areas. Initially planned for August 2, the release was postponed due to political tensions in Bangladesh. JTG Enterprise, the distributor in Malaysia, expects a positive response from eager viewers in the region. daily Star