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Category: Movies

  • Rovio, SEGA & Prime Focus Studios announce The Angry Birds Movie 3

    Rovio, SEGA & Prime Focus Studios announce The Angry Birds Movie 3

    Mumbai: Rovio Entertainment Corporation, SEGA, and Namit Malhotra’s production company Prime Focus Studios, has announced that they are starting production on The Angry Birds Movie 3, with DNEG Animation attached as animation partner. Prime Focus Studios, Rovio, and SEGA will produce the movie in association with One Cool Group, Flywheel Media, and dentsu.

    The third installment in the franchise will follow the continuing adventures of Red and Chuck, voiced once again by Jason Sudeikis (Ted Lasso, SNL, We’re the Millers) and Josh Gad (Frozen, Beauty and the Beast, Gutenberg!, Murder on the Orient Express). Jason Sudeikis is represented by Brillstein Entertainment Partners and TAG. Josh Gad is represented by Sugar 23, CAA and JSSK. More casting news will be coming soon.

    The film follows the success of the first two Angry Birds movies, which together have grossed more than $500m at the worldwide box office and have demonstrated fantastic results on streaming platforms, signalling strong demand for the third installment.

    The Angry Birds Movie 3 will be directed by John Rice (Angry Birds, Beavis and Butt-Head Do The Universe). The screenplay will be written by Thurop Van Orman (Angry Birds 2, Adventure Time, Flapjack), who will also executive produce alongside Toru Nakahara (Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic Prime, Golden Axe). The film will be produced by John Cohen (Despicable Me, The Garfield Movie, Angry Birds), Dan Chuba (The Mitchells vs. the Machines), and Carla Connor (The Willoughbys).

    Returning to the Angry Birds design team is Jeanie Chang as production designer and Francesca Natale as character designer. The head of story is Vadim Bazhanov and the lead editor is Sarah K. Reimers. Storyboards, art development, and animation will be handled by DNEG Animation.

    Rovio and SEGA will produce alongside Namit Malhotra and his production company Prime Focus Studios, which recently co-produced The Garfield Movie with Alcon Entertainment. Prime Focus Studios is also currently in production on Animal Friends with Legendary Entertainment and Ryan Reynolds’ Maximum Effort, and Indian epic Ramayana with actor-producer Yash’s Monster Mind Creations.

    “The Angry Birds brand knows no bounds, and an all-new Angry Birds adventure underscores how the worlds and narratives crafted in our games can seamlessly transcend into the realm of film and beyond,” said Rovio Entertainment CEO Alexandre Pelletier-Normand. “Rovio is fully committed to creating entertainment that sparks imagination across various platforms. We’ve seen continuous success in everything from games and feature films to licensed products and amusement parks, and we are thrilled to return once again to the vibrant Angry Birds world with our new partners.”

    “The Angry Birds games are a global phenomenon and the film franchise has enjoyed worldwide success,” added DNEG Animation MD Crosby Clyse. “Our amazing DNEG Animation team is thrilled to be teaming up once again with Prime Focus Studios and with our new friends at Rovio to create an all-new high-velocity adventure set in this colourful, crazy world.”

    “Innovation is part of dentsu’s DNA and we are always looking for new and exciting projects to deliver differentiated, integrated growth opportunities for our clients. We believe in the positive impact of entertainment, creating meaningful connections between people and brands,” commented dentsu global president – global practices Jean Lin. “We are so proud to partner with Prime Focus Studios and DNEG Animation to help bring the next installment of the beloved global Angry Birds franchise to life.”

    “The Angry Birds brand truly reflects the size and scale of content Flywheel Media are focusing on,” said Flywheel Media founder and CEO Don McGregor. “We are thrilled to be joining forces with such incredible partners to deliver this film to audiences around the world.”

    The Angry Birds Movie opened at #1 in 50 countries on its release in 2016 and has grossed more than $350m at the worldwide box office. Rovio’s mobile games surpassed 5 billion downloads in 2022.

    “We are thrilled to announce that the brand-new film of the globally beloved and successful Angry Birds franchise is to be in production,” said SEGA president and COO Shuji Utsumi. “SEGA has been focusing on its Transmedia strategy to advance the value of its intellectual properties (IP) across games and diverse media landscapes. We believe that the upcoming The Angry Birds Movie 3 perfectly aligns with our strategy and presents a great opportunity for us to bring the charm of the Angry Birds brand to fans across the globe.”

    “I’m delighted to be partnering with Rovio, SEGA, One Cool, Flywheel, dentsu, and the incredible team of returning filmmakers and voice talent on this movie. It’s an honour to be part of the next chapter in the amazing Angry Birds story,” concluded producer Namit Malhotra. “Prime Focus Studios is in production on an impressive roster of high-profile features and I am excited that The Angry Birds Movie 3 will be the next big animated project on our slate after The Garfield Movie.”

    Angry Birds and all related properties, titles, logos, and characters are trademarks of Rovio Entertainment Corporation and are used with permission. All Rights Reserved.

  • Tejas to premiere on &Pictures on 9 June

    Tejas to premiere on &Pictures on 9 June

    Mumbai: &pictures, your one-stop destination for full-on blockbuster movies, is all set to showcase the spirit of bravery and resilience with the channel premiere of ‘Tejas’ on Sunday, 9 June at 11:30 am. Tejas, portrayed by the versatile Kangana Ranaut, takes flight to safeguard the nation’s honor and security. Directed by Sarvesh Mewara, and additionally featuring Anshul Chauhan, Varun Mitra, Ashish Vidyarthi, and Vishak Nair in significant roles. This adrenaline-pumping narrative follows the journey of a valiant Air Force pilot entrusted with a perilous mission amidst escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.

    In the heart of this gripping tale lies the unwavering resolve of Tejas, who embodies the essence of courage and determination. From her daring maneuvers in the sky to confronting her haunting past, Tejas epitomizes the indomitable spirit of India’s armed forces.

    With stunning aerial sequences, pulse-pounding action, and impactful dialogues, Tejas promises a rollercoaster ride of patriotism and suspense that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

    Speaking about the significance of Tejas, Kangana Ranaut expressed her excitement, stating, “Tejas holds a special place in my heart, and I am thrilled to bring its courageous narrative to television screens through &pictures. It’s an honor to portray a character as fearless and patriotic as Tejas, and I hope the audience enjoys the journey as much as we enjoyed bringing it to life.”

    Director Sarvesh Mewara remarked, “Working on Tejas has been an immensely gratifying experience. Bringing to life the journey of a brave Air Force pilot has been both a challenge and an honor. Kangana’s dedication to her craft and her embodiment of the character of Tejas truly elevated the entire production. It’s essential to tell stories like these that showcase the valor and dedication of our armed forces, reminding us of the sacrifices they make to safeguard our nation’s security. I thank the entire post-production team of the film as well for their dedication, I cannot wait for everyone to watch the film again on &pictures!”

    Join Tejas on her daring mission to thwart a looming terrorist threat and defend the nation’s sovereignty. Tune in to &pictures on Sunday, June 9th at 11:30 am for an unforgettable heart-pouncing experience that celebrates the undying spirit of heroism and sacrifice. Witness Kangana Ranaut in one of her most powerful roles to date, bringing to life the story of a fearless Air Force pilot whose courage inspires a nation. The breathtaking aerial combat scenes, intense action sequences, and poignant moments of personal struggle will keep you on the edge of your seat.

    Don’t miss out on this extraordinary tale of valor and patriotism, only on &pictures!

  • Yoodlee Films’ ‘Agra’ wins Best Film at Prestigious NYIFF Awards

    Yoodlee Films’ ‘Agra’ wins Best Film at Prestigious NYIFF Awards

    Mumbai: Globally acclaimed and celebrated film, ‘Agra’ has won two major awards at the New York Indian Film Festival Awards. The film won the award for Best Film, and actor Mohit Agarwal was awarded Best Actor Male for the film amidst eminent nominations. After receiving high praise across film festivals such as Cannes, Jio MAMI, Busan, and IFF Melbourne, Agra continues to put India on the global map by winning at the most celebrated NYIFF Awards. ‘Agra’ was one of the most awarded Indian films at NYIFF, with director Kanu Behl and actors Mohit Agarwal and Priyanka Bose nominated in principal categories.

    Alongwith the nominees, the film features a stellar cast led by Rahul Roy in a remarkable comeback, Ruhani Sharma, Vibha Chibber, Sonal Jha, and Aanchal Goswami. Directed by the renowned filmmaker Kanu Behl, the narrative delves into the complexities of love, desire, and familial bonds against the backdrop of a dysfunctional household in small-town India.

    Kanu Behl shared his excitement, “Cinema is truly a universal language, and it is overwhelming that something so personal to me is being recognized on a global stage. It is an honour to win such a prestigious award and a proud moment to represent India at this festival. The love and appreciation from audiences and critics globally have been exhilarating.”

    Saregama India Ltd. senior VP Siddharth Anand Kumar said, “Agra is a daring journey into the human psyche. For audiences across the globe to not just relate, but to celebrate the film, is a great honour for us. Representation at NYIFF is a proud moment, but winning Best Film and Best Actor is phenomenal. We are proud to continue this global journey for ‘Agra’.”

    Mohit Agarwal expressed his joy in winning the prestigious award, “I am ecstatic to receive the Best Actor award at the NYIFF film festival. It’s a recognition for our hard work and toil and to represent India on such a prestigious platform feels surreal!”

    The film is written by Kanu Behl and Atika Chohan.

     

  • Cinépolis celebrates Cinema Lovers Day with Rs 99 tickets

    Cinépolis celebrates Cinema Lovers Day with Rs 99 tickets

    Mumbai: Cinépolis India, the first international cinema exhibitor, is thrilled to announce a special initiative to rejuvenate the excitement and enthusiasm for the movie-going experience. In celebration of Cinema Lovers Day, Cinépolis is offering movie tickets at an incredibly affordable rate of Rs 99. This special offer is available for one day i.e. 31 May 2024 and is aimed at encouraging audiences to return to the theatres and rediscover the unique and irreplaceable experience that only cinemas can provide.

    In a country where cinema is celebrated as a religion, movie-watching is a great way to celebrate togetherness. Families, friends, colleagues all come together to celebrate cinematic brilliance to forget the outside world for those three hours. With a varied range of F&B offerings and a safe space of hanging out, cinema halls are truly a go-to place for entertainment. And thus, offers and celebrations like Cinema Lovers Day are a great draw for more and more people to visit their nearest multiplex. This year across Cinepolis multiplexes along with the box-office offer, we are also offering the popcorn and coke combo @ Rs 150 only just to give our movie lovers another compelling reason to watch their favourite movies on the 60mm silver screen.

    Cinépolis India MD Devang Sampat commented on this initiative and said, “At Cinépolis, we are deeply committed to enriching the movie-going experience beyond just attractive offers. Cinema Lovers Day is not just about affordable tickets; it’s about celebrating the magic of cinema. We want to offer a holistic experience that captures the essence of storytelling and community, creating lasting memories for our audience that they will cherish for a lifetime. This initiative is a testament to our dedication to bringing people together to share the communal joy of watching films on the big screen.”

    Cinépolis continually strives to innovate and improve its offerings, ensuring that every visit to the theatre is more than just a movie but an unforgettable experience. Join us on Cinema Lovers Day to celebrate the magic of movies and the joy of community. Let’s come together to create and share the joy of watching films in the way they were meant to be experienced – on the big screen.

  • GRB Media Ranch acquires three compelling political documentaries for international distribution

    GRB Media Ranch acquires three compelling political documentaries for international distribution

    Mumbai: Coinciding with the guilty verdict of the hush money/porn star payoff trial, GRB Media Ranch has announced its acquisition of #Untruth, a political documentary about the psychology of “TrumpISM” and the authoritarian strain that it seeded in the American political landscape.

    This documentary by director Dan Partland, multiple Emmy Award winning and executive producer, and president of Doc Shop Productions, accompanies two other Partland productions available through GRB Media Ranch on the topic: #Unfit: The Psychology of Donald Trump and God + Country, a look into the growth of white, Christian nationalism in the U.S.

    Released theatrically, God + Country (co-produced by Rob Reiner), opened to rave reviews in the New York Times, Christianity Today and the Hollywood Reporter and received an 88 per cent score on Rotten Tomatoes.

    Benz stated: “We acquired these programs just at the time that Donald J. Trump was found guilty by a jury of his peers. GRB Media Ranch is proud to include them in its portfolio of timely documentaries on compelling subjects produced by an acclaimed filmmaker – Dan Partland.  In a historic U.S. election year where the subjects of the films reflect the deep divisions within the nation, these riveting political documentaries are essential viewing!  At GRB Media Ranch, we get stories – riveting, topical, compelling.”

    Partland added: “Democracies around the world are under threat like we haven’t seen in 100 years.  Hopefully, yesterday’s verdict in New York is the beginning of an American recommitment to the fundamental values of liberal democracy that have been so eroded by the global wave of intolerance and authoritarianism, which is drowning our body politic.”

  • Soudah Development & Warner Bros Discovery International sign partnership to promote Soudah Peaks’ rich heritage

    Soudah Development & Warner Bros Discovery International sign partnership to promote Soudah Peaks’ rich heritage

    Mumbai: Soudah Development and Warner Bros. Discovery International signed a one-year partnership agreement to promote and celebrate the distinctive nature, culture, and heritage of Soudah and parts of Rijal Almaa, a region situated in southwest Saudi Arabia. This collaboration will focus on raising awareness of Soudah Peaks – an upcoming luxury mountain tourism destination set 3,015 meters above sea level, on the highest peak in Saudi Arabia – and showcase its unparalleled beauty and diversity to a global audience.

    The partnership agreement entails the production of three short-form documentaries that will highlight Soudah’s natural landscapes, cultural heritage, ancestral traditions, architectural aesthetics, local community and its wide range of unparalleled offerings including historical sites and monuments.

    These short forms will be airing this summer across Europe, US, Middle East, Africa, and India on WBD’s TV channels Discovery Channel, Travel Channel and Eurosport 1 and 2. Additionally, the short forms will air on digital across Discovery Youtube channel, on VOX MEDIA’s social networks and Discovery Channel Weibo in China.

    Soudah Development CEO Eng Saleh Aloraini commented on the partnership: “We are delighted to join forces with Warner Bros. Discovery to unveil the exceptional beauty and cultural significance of the Soudah region, along with the Saudi Arabia, on a global scale. This collaboration marks a pivotal step in our endeavor to position Soudah as a unique luxury mountain tourism destination, and we are confident that it will captivate travelers from around the world.”

    The Soudah region is home to a variety of fauna and flora, varied topography, and unique agricultural practices such as beekeeping, all of which will be highlighted in the content produced.

    Warner Bros Discovery, sports & lifestyle international brand partnerships head Mike Rich said: “Partnering with Soudah Development presents an exciting opportunity for us to showcase the unique appeal of the Soudah region through our influential media platforms. We are thrilled to bring captivating stories of Soudah’s natural wonders and cultural heritage to our viewers. We eagerly anticipate a successful collaboration ahead.”

  • New Docuseries ‘Fallen Idols: Nick and Aaron Carter’ to premiere in India on May 31

    New Docuseries ‘Fallen Idols: Nick and Aaron Carter’ to premiere in India on May 31

    Mumbai: Investigation Discovery, the leading true crime network, announced Fallen Idols: Nick and Aaron Carter a four-part docuseries that delves into the lives of Nick and Aaron Carter. From their outsized fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s to their headline-making struggles in recent years, the docuseries pulls back the curtain on the fraught dynamic of the Carter family and the dark side of such an abrupt rise to fame. At its core, FALLEN IDOLS explores the accusations of sexual assault against Nick Carter by three women, while also diving into his brother, Aaron Carter’s, struggles with mental health and substance abuse – and the rift that occurred after Aaron decided to support his brother’s accusers. ‘Fallen Idols: Nick and Aaron Carter will stream on discovery+ on Friday, 31 May.

    In 2017, Nick Carter was accused of sexual assault by singer and actress Melissa Schuman, former member of a popular girl group DREAM while Nick Carter and Backstreet Boys were at the height of their fame. In the years following Schuman’s decision to come forward, additional accusers, Ashley Repp and Shay Ruth spoke out with similar accusations. During this period, Aaron Carter decided to support Nick’s accusers, while battling addiction and struggling with his mental health, stoking a very public feud between the two brothers in the lead-up to Aaron’s tragic death in 2022. Fallen Idols: Nick and Aaron Carter delve into the accusations against Nick and how those intertwined with the volatile relationship between the two brothers.  

    Featuring exclusive interviews with Melissa Schuman, Ashley Repp, and Shay Ruth, who offer emotional, powerful insights and perspectives into their allegations against Nick, Fallen Idols: Nick and Aaron Carter not only offers a deeper understanding of the allegations but also chronicles the intense backlash Nick’s accusers have faced since they decided to speak publicly and the lasting impact that has had on their lives. The docuseries also features first-hand accounts from a member of the Carter family and close family friends, including Nick’s ex-girlfriend Kaya Jones and Aaron’s former fiancé Melanie Martin, to offer an intimate perspective on how intense fame and the spotlight caused a rift between two brothers. Over four parts, FALLEN IDOLS explores the dark side of fame and fraught family dynamics but also the intense challenges faced by accusers who come forward against celebrities and pop culture icons in today’s modern world.  

    Fallen Idols: Nick and Aaron Carter is produced for Investigation Discovery by Ish Entertainment.  

  • Sajni Shinde ka Viral Video premiere on &xplorHD

    Sajni Shinde ka Viral Video premiere on &xplorHD

    Mumbai: &xplorHD is all set to showcase a gripping narrative of Sajini Shinde ka Viral Video on 25 May at 9 pm. Directed by filmmaker Mikhil Musale, the film unfolds an enigmatic tale of Sajini Shinde who’s life is completely devastated by one viral video. The movie delves into the life of the school teacher who finds herself helpless in the middle of an unfortunate situation and the mysterious story that unravels Sajini’s truth. &xplorHD promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats with this UNroutine, UNexpected, UNformula film premiere on 25 May, 9 pm.

    The film boasts a stellar ensemble cast including Nimrat Kaur, Radhika Madan, Bhagyashree, Subodh Bhave, Soham Majumdar, and Sumeet Vyas whose performances lend depth and authenticity to the narrative.

    &xplorHD has also launched the “UNviralOnlineShaming” campaign to coincide with the television premiere of the movie. This campaign aims to raise awareness about the dangers of online shaming and the detrimental effects that viral content can have on individuals. Inspired by the poignant story of Sajini in the film, the campaign seeks to appeal to the public on the importance of responsible online behaviour and the critical need to think before sharing content that could harm others.

    Director Mikhil Musale said, “Every casting decision, every location choice was meticulously made. Radhika and Nimrat have done an exceptional job in portraying the true essence of their characters, bringing depth and authenticity to their roles.” Reflecting on the story of the film, Musale said, “The story of Sajini Shinde is one that everyone should know about. The movie is about uncovering Sajini’s truth and the repercussions that were faced by her and the people who did her wrong. The film is a mix of many characters and emotions I have personally seen in my life and it’s something which I truly believe in.  It’s a film that focuses on the real and the staged. I eagerly anticipate everyone’s response as ‘Sajini Shinde ka Viral’ premieres on &xplorHD.”

    The talented Radhika Mandan said ” My character in this movie is a simple girl who is a teacher, a dutiful daughter, a loving fiance whose life is changed by one mere video that goes viral. I consider myself lucky to be able to play this role as through this I can tell the world about it and address this issue. It is very unfortunate what happens to Sajini as in today’s day and age, even the smallest thing, which is of no importance, gets viral and it is essential for us to not give heed to it.  As ‘Sajini Shinde ka Viral Video’ prepares to grace the screens of &xplorHD, I can’t help but feel excited for the audiences to watch Sajini’s story from the comfort of their homes.”

    Nimrat Kaur shared her thoughts saying “My character in ‘Sajini Shinde Ka Viral Video’ is one of a cop that investigates the matter and strives to find the truth behind Sajini’s disappearance. It’s a very thrilling character, a woman in a man’s world, a no-nonsense cop who does not let the world take advantage of her gender by always putting on a tough exterior. I thoroughly enjoyed playing the role of Inspector Bela Barot. I hope the audience enjoys watching the movie on &xplorHD as much as I loved playing it.”

  • Lord Curzon Ki Haveli’ wins big at the UK-Asian Film Festival 2024

    Lord Curzon Ki Haveli’ wins big at the UK-Asian Film Festival 2024

    Mumbai: The debut Directorial of actor Anshuman Jha – ‘Lord Curzon Ki Haveli’ – bagged him the ‘BEST Director’ award & his leading man Arjun Mathur the ‘Best Actor’ Award at the prestigious UK-Asian Film Festival 2024.

    The black comedy thriller – which has been having a wonderful festival run over the past 6 months – got a standing ovation at packed theatre at the historic Regent Street cinema in London last Saturday.

    And the team was present to feel the audience loved. Says Anshuman ‘This win feels like a full circle for it has come in the UK. The film is about Asians in the West, identity, immigrants – thereby we are thrilled on the win in London. Because we shot the film in the UK & have been travelling with it around the world & now to win at our British Premiere is something I am truly grateful for. Especially for Arjun because I truly feel this film is one of his finest, if not, his best performance. Films need to entertain and ask questions. Can’t wait for it to release later this year.’

    Lord Curzon is the first mainstream Indian feature films which has been entirely shot on a single lens technique & has been garnering applause around the world for it.

  • NCPA & Zee Theatre partner to present Pratibimb Marathi Natya Utsav

    NCPA & Zee Theatre partner to present Pratibimb Marathi Natya Utsav

    Mumbai 2024: The National Centre for the Performing Arts’ Pratibimb Marathi Natya Utsav returns this summer. Co-powered by Zee Theatre, the three-day Marathi theatre festival (from the 17 to 19 May) encompasses a variety of vibrant activities such as poetry readings, venue tours, workshops and plays.

    The festival opens with the premiere of Patra Patri, a tongue-in-cheek epistolary play about changing times, featuring two stalwarts – Vijay Kenkre and Dilip Prabhavalkar. In stark contrast to this humorous offering is Kavi Jaato Tenvha, a musical play-reading on the poetic works of Manik Sitaram Godghate, known by his pen name Grace. The festival also offers two workshops; one on the fundamentals of acting by renowned actor Priyadarshan Jadhav and the other about stage design by noted art director Macchindra Shinde.

    NCPA head of theatre & films Bruce Guthrie shared, “The NCPA’s commitment to Marathi theatre and cultural groups is demonstrated through initiatives like Pratibimb. This festival aims to preserve and nurture Maharashtrian culture. It is a celebration and a collaboration between the NCPA and established and emerging artists, creating a vibrant space for artistic expression in the Marathi theatre community. The upcoming Pratibimb festival promises an enticing blend of mainstream and innovative performances. With no fewer than three premieres, it gives our audiences a chance to see the fantastic plays first at the NCPA. Alongside these, enriching readings, workshops, and tours will be held, all designed to provide a comprehensive experience of the vibrant world of Marathi theatre. This diverse lineup ensures there’s something for every theatre enthusiast eager to delve into the rich cultural heritage of Marathi theatre. We also offer greater access with many of the performances subtitled in English, so people who don’t speak Marathi can still experience the plays. We invite our audiences to join this celebration and immerse themselves in Pratibimb’s rich tapestry of experiences.”

    This year, Pratibimb also features two intriguing love stories. Playwright Irawati Karnik, renowned for delving into the complexities of human behavior and relationships, presents her highly acclaimed work, “Jar Tar Chi Goshta.”  Complementing this, Niranjan Pedanekar’s “Love is Hanikarak” offers a darker perspective on love.

    Emerging from the NCPA’s prestigious “Darpan” playwriting competition, “Golkonda Diamonds” by Yogeshwar Bendre explores the perennial struggle of individuals against the overwhelming forces of the system. Building on the success of last year’s winning play, “Kalgitura,” by Datta Patil, the festival also presents “Dagad aani Maati” that delves deeper into themes of provenance and identity.

    Witness these captivating stories unfold on stage and immerse yourself in this unique theatrical experience. Tickets are now available on BookMyShow.