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  • World Storytelling Day Special: From humor to inspirational, check out these four entertaining stories

    World Storytelling Day Special: From humor to inspirational, check out these four entertaining stories

    Mumbai: Sudhanshu Rai has weaved magic with his stories that are more than 500 in number. While Detective Boomrah and Dr Shekhawat are popular characters created by him, thrillers and horror mysteries by Sudhanshu are lapped up by the audience. However, Sudhanshu shows his versatility as his other stories are also equally popular among the masses. From humor to inspirational stories, Sudhanshu enthralls the listeners with every word of his. So here are some stories by Sudhanshu Rai that you can enjoy on World Storytelling Day.

    Bhai Sahab Chale Bangkok

    Set in a village of Uttar Pradesh, this story revolves around Bhai Sahab, a teacher who has never set foot outside his village but is widely respected for his ethics, knowledge and benevolence. His world turns upside down after one of his student’s father who happens to be a travel agent gifts him a tour to Bangkok. As the news spreads like a wildfire, the teacher becomes the subject of gossip. Unware of the fun that Bangkok offers, the teacher decides to go ahead and revels in the pride of his first foreign visit. Ram & Bhagat, two of his notorious friends who have travelled till the outskirts of Lucknow but claim in their village to be urbanely, suggest Bhai Sahab that he should not venture alone to a foreign destination. After much deliberations teacher decides to tag them along. This trip to Bangkok turns out to be a life changing event for him, who grapples to come to terms with the diversity while keeping intact his principles and habits.

    Adhyapak Ram

    This is the story of a teacher who has devoted his life to teaching the less fortunate kids in a remote village. For more than two decades, the man has been changing the lives of hundreds of people by helping them get educated. But when he is asked to leave his home for more than 20 years by government officials, he suffers the greatest blow of his life. In the last stages of his life, the small things that mean the most to him—like a banyan tree—will no longer be by his side. However, when a high-ranking government official pays him a visit, something unexpected occurs. Will the memories of life turn into mere nostalgia  for him? Or will his good deeds reward him? You are sure to get inspired with this heart-touching story by Sudhanshu Rai.

    Mangu Chitrakaar

    The touching tale of Mangu Chitrakaar is about a young child who was raised by his maternal grandmother after experiencing the death of both parents at a young age. His ability to communicate with paint and canvas, a god-gifted talent, is what sets him apart. When his poverty forces him to part from his grandmother, it is devastating. The distance is easy for neither of them, for they were inseparable when together. But because of his talent and enthusiasm, he makes sure that he returns stronger than before. He ensures that the tears flowing from his grandmother’s eyes are that of happiness, not sadness.

    Pappan Bata Gappan

    This Hindi horror comedy is set in the small tourist hamlet of Panpan. Pappan and Gappan, two street smart guides, want to earn quick money. They start fooling tourists by taking them to an abandoned train coach. Encountering weird and dark events, their journey becomes a nightmare as they face the unseen. The story is in two parts and keeps the listeners hooked on till the very end.

  • Award-winning and nominated titles that you won’t want to miss at Red Lorry Film Festival

    Award-winning and nominated titles that you won’t want to miss at Red Lorry Film Festival

    Mumbai: Lights, camera, action! Prepare to be spoilt with silver screen magic by the finest in storytelling, performance and execution from across the globe with a stellar lineup at BookMyShow’s Red Lorry Film Festival. Amidst the buzz of excitement, one thing is certain, a showcase of top-notch excellence!

    BookMyShow, India’s leading entertainment destination introduced Red Lorry Film Festival, a curated cinematic universe featuring the finest content from across the globe, all under one roof from April 5th to 7th, 2024 at state-of-the-art cinemas Maison INOX at Jio World Plaza and Maison PVR at Jio World Drive, Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), Mumbai.

    As we countdown the days to the International Film Festival, cinephiles can expect a visual treat unlike any other, where the very best in filmmaking takes center stage. So get ready to witness the brilliance of outstanding cinema unfold before your eyes at Red Lorry Film Festival.

    Grab your popcorn and get ready to be swept away by the magic of these award-winning and nominated masterpieces. Don’t miss out!

    1.   The Beasts (Spanish, French, Galician): The story immerses viewers into the serene landscapes of Galicia, Spain, where a French couple seeks solace in nature. However, their idyllic pursuit turns into a nightmare when a feud erupts with their neighbours, the formidable Anta brothers. As tensions escalate, the once-tranquil town becomes a battleground of conflicting ideologies and primal instincts.

    The claim to fame: Winner of 56 Awards, including the Goya Award, César Award, San Sebastián International Film Festival and more, this gripping thriller drama is a testament to the power of storytelling while diving deep into the complexities of human relationships.

    2.   The Goldman Case (French): This is a compelling courtroom drama focusing on Pierre Goldman, a prominent left-wing intellectual in France. Accused and convicted of several thefts and murder, Pierre’s life takes a mysterious turn when he is assassinated under puzzling circumstances. The film delves into the complexities of Pierre’s case, exploring themes of justice, politics, and the human condition.

    The claim to fame: Lead actor, Ariel Worthalter shone as he bagged Best Actor at César Awards and Lumiere Awards in France and Magritte Awards in Belgium, and ‘The Goldman Case’ has garnered critical acclaim and received nominations for a total of 16 nominations across categories including César Awards for Best Picture.

    3.   Consent (French): Directed by Vanessa Filho, this is a powerful adaptation of Vanessa Springora’s book, ‘The Consentment: A Memoir’. The film delves into the disturbing relationship between a young teenage girl and a writer three times her age. Set against the backdrop of Paris in 1985, it explores the complexities of desire, manipulation, and the blurred lines of consent. The film unflinchingly portrays the emotional turmoil faced by the young girl, drawing chilling parallels to real-life versions of Lolita and Last Tango in Paris.

    The claim to fame: The biographical drama received two nominations at the 2024 César Awards for Most Promising Actress and Best Adapted Screenplay.

    4.   Hesitation Wound (Turkish): The storyline presents a gripping narrative centred around a criminal lawyer grappling with urgent matters in her personal and professional life. As she navigates through a myriad of challenges, she is confronted with a crucial choice that reverberates through multiple lives. Delve into the depths of morality and consequence in this mesmerizing thriller that blurs the lines between reality and illusion.

    The claim to fame: Director of the film, Selman Nacar saw many accolades at International Film Festivals globally with four wins and five nominations including Winner of the Best International Feature Film at the Zurich Film Festival. This compelling tale premiered in the Orizzonti section at the 80th Venice International Film Festival.

     5.  Oxen (Danish): From the Emmy-winning screenwriting duo Mai Brostrøm and Peter Thorsboe, ‘Oxen’ is a TV thriller following the journey of Niels Oxen, Denmark’s decorated war hero, as he battles his inner demons following a dishonourable discharge from the military. However, his life takes an unexpected turn when he becomes entangled in the investigation of a series of brutal murders, all linked to a powerful faction within Danish society. As ‘Oxen’ delves deeper into the dark underbelly of his homeland, he must confront his past while navigating treacherous waters fraught with danger.

    The claim to fame: ‘Oxen’ received critical acclamation at the Danish Film Awards (Robert) for Best Actor and Best Supporting Actress for TV Series.

     6.  Agent (Danish): Embark on a hilarious journey with Joe, an ambitious talent agent navigating the twists and turns of the Danish entertainment industry. As he juggles the demands of work and life, Joe finds himself caught in a whirlwind of comedic mishaps and unexpected challenges.

    The claim to fame: Selected as an official selection at the prestigious Berlin International Film Festival 2023, ‘Agent’ promises laughter and entertainment at every turn. The Danish TV series stood as a top contender at Berlin International Film Festival and also at Danish Film Awards (Robert) for Best Actor and Best TV series.

    7.   The Fortress (Norwegian): Step into the dystopian world of 2037, where Norway has opted for isolation, barricading itself behind an immense wall to safeguard its inhabitants. However, when a deadly epidemic strikes, the once-protective barrier becomes an unescapable prison. Trapped within the confines of their own creation, the people of Norway must confront their deepest fears and darkest secrets as they fight for survival against an invisible enemy.

    The claim to fame: Winner of the Best Screenplay award at Series Mania 2023, ‘The Fortress’ offers a gripping portrayal of survival and sacrifice in a world turned upside down.

  • “Storytelling has been a part of cultures across the world”

    “Storytelling has been a part of cultures across the world”

    Mumbai: On 20 March every year, people around the globe come together to celebrate World Storytelling Day. This occasion honors the art of storytelling and recognises its impact on societies throughout history. From ancient oral traditions to modern-day literature, storytelling has been a fundamental means of communication, education, and cultural preservation.

    At its core, storytelling is about sharing experiences, emotions, and ideas. Through narratives, we can explore different perspectives, empathize with others, and forge connections across cultures and generations. Whether conveyed through spoken word, written prose, visual imagery, or digital media, stories have the power to inspire, educate, entertain, and provoke change.

    On this special occasion Indiantelevision.com caught up with storyteller actor & filmmaker Sudhanshu Rai, where he talked about the evolution of storytelling in India and lot more..

    Edited excerpts

    On oral storytelling evolving in modern times

    The cave engravings were possibly the very first form of storytelling, at times depicting enchanting stories through pictures that were universal and on many occasions passing on knowledge to the next generation. Storytelling has been a part of cultures across the world, probably since the evolution of mankind. Most of us for instance remember stories by our grandparents who would tell tales of Panchatantra, of kings and queens and fairies and demons. We all have fond memories of those stories.

    In modern times, storytelling has also evolved drastically and explored dimensions that were unheard of. While a definitive role has been played by growth of social media and other digital podcast streaming platforms, storytelling is a proven success in radio format. Another example of the evolution of the ancient art is LIVE storytelling, which is an unparalleled form of wholesome entertainment. Furthermore, there are many genres that are being explored by the best storytellers in India. There is newfound adulation for stories that hail from genres such as detective, sci-fi, horror, thriller etc, even as comedy, romantic and inspirational stories remain the all time favourites.

    On Indian storytellers adding new dimensions to this traditional art

    Through storytelling we are not just passing on art and stories to the next generation, we are preserving history, culture and language, and also creating a time capsule that can take us back in that time every time we listen to it. The new age Indian storytellers are taking the simple storytelling forward with a multi-pronged approach. With digital and social mediums like YouTube etc, one can now share stories with a much wider listener base. Timed with jump scares, voice modulations, music and sound effects, they can create stories that are remembered for a long time. And then there is a growing affinity for Live Storytelling. Ensuring a theatre or concert like experience, here the storyteller takes the audience virtually to unexplored worlds. Through impactful oration, ambient lighting and curated music, the storyteller weaves an old kingdom, a jungle or a hitherto unknown land where nobody has ever been before. The point to note here is that LIVE storytelling has even proven to be one of the most impactful employee engagement & entertainment activities, while it’s also known to enhance the imagination skills of growing children.

    On elements that make live storytelling a wholesome experience

    These Live Storytelling shows have captured the attention of the audience like never before. While sound designers and engineers work on the production to make it a seamless experience, there are many more artists involved. At times a visual representation is also accompanying the storytelling enabling the audience to have a beautiful experience. Experimentation is also being seen in the storylines and genres. The audience loves a great thriller or a horror story and even those with time travel or mystical elements. And all of this comes together to create an experience for the audience that they have never had before.

    On fictional characters including the iconic ones like Detective Boomrah

    When I sit down to create any character, the intention is always to create somebody with their own distinct personality, yet relatable. So many of my characters are based on personality traits of real-life people. Even the naming of characters is a long drawn process. So, if it is a story of a common girl, let’s say Mausami in one of my popular stories, Gulabi Rang, then the name will be a not so common one, but one that is relatable. People often think, oh yes, we know a Mausami around us. But when I am naming characters like Detective Boomrah, then the name should resonate with his personality. It is a unique name, something which many of us haven’t heard earlier. And in this quest, I will think and search till I find the right name.

    On Dr Shekhawat setting to make its on-screen debut in your upcoming feature film

    Dr Shekhawat has solved many cases dealing with supernatural and psychiatry in stories written by me. He has the ability to decipher phenomena and events that maybe beyond the understanding of a normal person. Immensely intelligent, he is sharp, has a great understanding of the parallel word and is the right culmination of brain and brawn. He is charismatic, and has great physical prowess. And Dr Shekhawat is an integral part of our upcoming sci-fi thriller film that is gearing for launch soon. Tarun Khanna has essayed the character of Dr Shekhawat and he has done full justice to the character.

    On being a storyteller helping you as an actor and filmmaker

    As a storyteller I have already shared hundreds of stories with my fans and continue to fulfil their demand by releasing new stories on my official YouTube channel regularly. Being a storyteller primarily strengthens my fundamentals as an actor and a storyteller, because ultimately it’s a story that is at the crux of any format of cinema, whether it’s a feature film or a web series. Chaipatti, Chintaa Mani and Detective Boomrah, all our previous projects had story at its centre, rather than a conventionally popular name or face. Being the writer of the stories further helps me understand the intricacies of a character better as an actor.

    My upcoming Hindi feature film is a never-seen-before sci-fi thriller. The audience will see the Hindi heartland of the country in its true and real form, but with unimaginable elements thrown in that will surprise them every time. For more, you will have to watch the film in theatres. An announcement on the release will be made shortly.

  • Top five reasons to watch ‘Imaginary’

    Top five reasons to watch ‘Imaginary’

    Mumbai: Looking for a horror movie that breaks the mould of a haunted house narrative? Look no further than the upcoming horror masterpiece “Imaginary,” a chiller take on childhood imagination and the potential danger which lurks behind the surface. The movie dives into the dark depths of a child’s fantasy. This gripping movie goes above the realm of cheap thrills to create an engrossing mystery that will keep you on your toes. The movie is set to release on 22 March 2024 in your nearest PVR INOX cinemas. Come along as we reveal five strong reasons to put “Imaginary” at the top of your watch list.

    An Un‘IMAGINARY’ suspense & mystery:

    ‘Imaginary’ presents a gripping storyline filled with mystery and suspense. Follow Jessica, a successful children’s author, as she delves into her haunting past while dealing with the eerie presence of her stepdaughter’s imaginary friend.

    Yet another must-see horror from Jeff Wadlow:

    Directed by Jeff Wadlow, known for his work in the horror genre, ‘Imaginary’ promises a thrilling cinematic experience. Wadlow’s expertise in crafting tension-filled narratives ensures audiences will be on the edge of their seats throughout the film.

    Unravelling psychological complexity:

    The movie hints at a deep connection between Chauncey and Jessica’s past, setting the stage for a psychological journey into the depths of trauma and its lasting effects. As Jessica uncovers the dark secrets surrounding her childhood imaginary friend, Chauncey, the film delves into the supernatural realm. With twists and turns at every corner, “Imaginary” offers a fresh take on the horror genre, seamlessly blending psychological thrills with supernatural elements.

    Compelling performances:

    Prepare to be captivated by the stellar performances of the cast, including DeWanda Wise, Tom Payne, Taegen Burns, Pyper Braun, Matthew Sato, Veronica Falcón, and Betty Buckley. These talented actors bring the characters to life with their amazing acting skills. From Jessica’s journey of self-discovery to the menacing presence of Chauncey, each performance adds depth and authenticity to the story.

    Conversation starter:

    Beyond mere jump scares, Imaginary sparks meaningful discussions about childhood fears, the eternal struggle between good and evil, and the haunting power of buried memories. Its exploration of these themes ensures that the film lingers in the mind long after the credits roll.

    If you’re drawn to the eerie realms of horror and appreciate stories that intertwine suspense with raw intensity, don’t miss the premiere of ‘Imaginary’ this Friday at your nearest PVR INOX cinemas.

  • “The offer came as a delightful surprise, tinged with a hint of disbelief”: Laapata Ladies’ screenwriter Sneha Desai

    “The offer came as a delightful surprise, tinged with a hint of disbelief”: Laapata Ladies’ screenwriter Sneha Desai

    Mumbai: As the latest Kiran Rao-directed movie “Laapata Ladies” continues to make waves since its release on 1 March 2024, let us applaud the lady behind the screenplay, Sneha Desai.

    A prominent figure in film, television, and theatre, Desai has crafted compelling narratives not only for the silver screen but also for hit shows like ‘Pushpa Impossible’ and ‘Wagle Ki Duniya’. With over 1200 shows to her credit on stage, Desai is not just a prolific writer but also an actor, gracing both stage and screen with her talent, enriching the world of entertainment with her diverse skills and contributions.

    Indiantelevision.com in conversation with Sneha Desai discussed her journey in the entertainment industry, about portraying strong female characters, on being multifaceted and more…

    Edited Excerpts:

    On your journey into entertainment, and could you share some memorable moments along the way

    Transitioning from the world of stage performances to the dynamic realm of screen productions felt like a natural progression. The sheer love and admiration poured in by audiences have been the driving force behind my pursuit in this industry. Not to mention, the humbling experience of receiving critical acclaim and prestigious awards has only fuelled my passion further. Over time, I found myself delving into the art of writing almost instinctively, realising that audiences don’t just watch but truly absorb and resonate with the content. It’s these moments of connection and resonance that continually inspire me to push boundaries and delve deeper into the world of storytelling.

    On writing for “Laapataa Ladies,” and your reaction to Aamir Khan’s offer during lockdown

    My journey with “Laapataa Ladies” began unexpectedly during the unprecedented times of the COVID lockdown. It all started with a casual narration session for a different project, but fate had other plans. Months later, I received a call from none other than Aamir Khan himself, presenting me with the opportunity to bring life to a story they had in mind. The offer came as a delightful surprise, tinged with a hint of disbelief. Who wouldn’t be awe-struck when approached by a personality of Mr Khan’s calibre? However, amidst the surrealism, there was an underlying sense of responsibility and pressure to deliver nothing short of excellence.

    On your preference in writing for a specific genre

    With my journey still in its early stages, I’ve consciously avoided confining myself to a particular genre. Instead, I’m eager to explore through the diverse landscape of storytelling, embracing various styles and narratives along the way. After all, the beauty of storytelling lies not in the limitations of genres but in the boundless possibilities of expression and creativity.

    Your works feature strong female characters; what drives crafting such empowered perspectives

    Crafting strong and empowered female characters has always been an organic process for me, rooted in my firm belief in individual rights and freedom. Whether male or female, I strive to infuse my characters with depth, agency, and relatable flaws, allowing them to evolve and resonate with audiences on a profound level. It’s this commitment to authenticity and complexity that breathes life into my characters, making them not just figures on a screen but embodiments of resilience and empowerment.

    On the challenges that you have faced in the industry and how did you overcome them

    Navigating through the legalities, contracts, and rights can often be a daunting task, especially for someone relatively new to the industry. However, with the guidance of experienced mentors and the support of a professional network, I’ve learned to tackle these challenges head-on while keeping my focus firmly grounded in my passion for storytelling. Additionally, in an era where audience attention spans are fleeting and competition is fierce, capturing and retaining viewers’ interest presents its own set of hurdles. Nevertheless, by staying true to my creative vision and adapting to changing landscapes, I’ve managed to navigate through these challenges with resilience and determination.

    On the industry evolution in terms of women’s representation, and the changes you hope to see

    While the entertainment industry has made significant strides towards inclusivity and gender representation, there’s still ample room for growth and improvement, particularly concerning women’s roles and opportunities. Beyond just representation on screen, I believe in creating a conducive environment that prioritises the safety, security, and well-being of women behind the scenes as well. This entails measures such as flexible working hours, pay parity, and job security, ensuring that women have the support and resources they need to thrive in their respective roles. Ultimately, by fostering a culture of empowerment and equality, we can pave the way for a more diverse and inclusive industry for future generations.

    On challenging yourself creatively as a writer wearing multiple hats

    Juggling various roles within the creative sphere, from writing scripts to penning lyrics and stepping into the shoes of diverse characters on screen, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for growth. Each project serves as a canvas for exploration and self-discovery, allowing me to push beyond my comfort zone and tap into different facets of my creativity. Whether it’s experimenting with new storytelling techniques or delving into uncharted territories of expression, I constantly challenge myself to evolve and innovate, keeping the spark of creativity alive and thriving.

    On the upcoming projects or aspirations that you have for the future

    Exciting ventures lie on the horizon, with YRF’s ‘Maharaj’ set to grace screens on Netflix as my next release. Additionally, a long-awaited Gujarati play is in the pipeline, alongside discussions for intriguing film projects that hold promise. With optimism and enthusiasm, I eagerly await the next chapter of my creative journey, embracing the unknown with open arms and a heart full of aspirations.

  • Alex Garland’s ‘Civil War’: Provocative action epic unveils turmoil in near-future America

    Alex Garland’s ‘Civil War’: Provocative action epic unveils turmoil in near-future America

    Mumbai: Alex Garland’s latest endeavor seeks to engage audiences worldwide in 2024, a year marked by significant political milestones. The film presents the USA at war with itself, in which ordinary citizens take up arms against each other and blood runs in the streets. ‘Civil War’ imagines America’s worst-case scenario right around the corner.

    In India, amidst a surge of political cinema (i.e. The Kashmir Files, The Kerala Story, Article 370, JNU, etc), ‘Civil War’ promises to fuel a thought-provoking conversation as we approach the 18th Lok Sabha elections.

    America is in a rough place right now — Right vs. left, blue vs. red, blind faith vs. biased truth. What was once an ideological divide now seems like an unbridgeable chasm. Imagining a not-so-distant future that you might accidentally mistake it for the present, in which the USA is once more at war against itself. The premise is a perfect opportunity to take a cold, hard, genre-inflected look at the American experiment’s current slouching toward self-destruction.

    By exploring the unwavering commitment to truth through the lens of journalism, “Civil War” has the potential to spark vital discourse and inspire viewers to critically evaluate the information they encounter.

    Alex Garland’s latest which is a wholly consuming thought-provoking war epic, is a deeply fascinating intimate piece that uses the experience and motivations of a group of military-embedded journalists to highlight the chilling reality of living in a world that never learns.

    Academy Award nominee Kirsten Dunst plays a jaded photojournalist documenting the end of democracy as we know it in what’s sure to be one of the year’s most controversial films. This gritty, war-torn film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Wagner Moura, Cailee Spaeny, Stephen McKinley Henderson, and Jesse Plemons.

    One of the most anticipated movies in a contentious Red vs. Blue election year, A24‘s Civil War made its grand splash Thursday night in the Texas democratic stronghold of Austin.

    If one is to engage honestly with “Civil War,’ one must also engage with the state of journalism. It is impossible not to in a country that has seen fascism rear its ugly head and reactionary conspiracies take hold in response to cascading existential crises. In the case of “Civil War” it culminates in violence that consumes the country.

    The dystopian future movie depicting the harrowing & senseless realities of war is set in the U.S. in which a three-term demagogue president rules (sound scary familiar? He’s played by Nick Offerman). Civil War follows a war journalist, played by Kirsten Dunst, as she traverses a very hostile America.

    Given the election year we’re in and the feeling that we’re about to reprise a truly contentious contest for the country’s highest office, however, it’s hard not to think we’re on the brink of a second conflict between citizens on our own soil. It can happen here. It can happen again.

    There Garland said he wanted to make journalists the heroes in Civil War because in “every democracy they aren’t a luxury, but a necessity.”

    “Civil War” follows a group of journalists. At the center of this is veteran war photographer Lee, played by an understated yet completely enthralling Kirsten Dunst, who has seen more death than many would in a lifetime. Now, she must cover a conflict in her own country and grapple with what this means. She takes aspiring young photographer Jessie (Cailee Spaeny) under her wing as she plans to travel across the country with her colleagues Joel (Wagner Moura) and Sammy (Stephen McKinley Henderson) to interview the president (Offerman) before what is believed to be the violent end of his regime.

    While political films often touch upon pressing social issues, they frequently oversimplify the role of journalists. However, Alex Garland’s “Civil War,” backed by A24 as their most ambitious project yet, courageously confronts this flawed narrative.

    The film delivers a raw portrayal of the physical and psychological hardships journalists endure in conflict zones – risking their lives amidst bullets, shelling, kidnappings, and death threats to uncover the unvarnished truth.

  • Homi Adajania says Vijay Varma is a top dog, on the IMDb original series ‘Burning Questions’

    Homi Adajania says Vijay Varma is a top dog, on the IMDb original series ‘Burning Questions’

    Mumbai: Sara Ali Khan, Karisma Kapoor, Tisca Chopra, Vijay Varma, Sanjay Kapoor, Suhail Nayyar, and Homi Adajania recently appeared on the IMDb original series ‘Burning Questions’ to talk about their film Murder Mubarak. The movie is an official adaptation of the murder mystery novel, ‘Club You To Death’ by Anuja Chauhan. Together, the cast shared insights on their collaboration and provided interesting anecdotes about the film.

    When asked what she would steal from the cast of Murder Mubarak if she were a kleptomaniac in real life just like her character in the film, Sara Ali Khan replied, “I think I would take Tisca (Chopra) ma’am’s bilingual eloquence. Yeah, it’s amazing. I think Lolo’s (Karisma Kapoor) infectious energy while singing. Sanjay (Kapoor) sir’s selflessness. I admire Vijay’s (Varma) versatility. I’d covet Homi (Adajania) sir’s patience, and Suhail’s (Nayyar) undiscovered talent. From Dimple (Kapadia) aunty, I would steal her timeless beauty and her hair. And from Pankaj (Tripathi) sir, I would take everything he embodies.”

    When asked which cast member’s real-life personality is closest to their character, and why, Vijay Varma responded, “I think it’s me. I mean, this character is an outsider on the inside, so I feel a connection with him.” Homi Adajania added, “Yes, I agree. Akash Dogra is a bit of an underdog. Not that Vijay Varma is an underdog anymore. He once was, and he’s still trying to hold onto that part of his identity. But now he’s become a star, so he’s the top dog.”

    Regarding Karisma Kapoor’s character in Murder Mubarak, Homi Adajania remarked, “Lolo is portraying a B-grade slasher flick, cult heroine in the film, which is quite different from her usual roles.” Kapoor herself added, “Yes, I think she was very different, eccentric, quirky, and a bit crazily weird. So yeah, she was very different from me.”

  • Celebrating 10 years of LGBTQIA+ Voices: Five Films For Freedom

    Celebrating 10 years of LGBTQIA+ Voices: Five Films For Freedom

    Mumbai: British Council, the UK’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities, in partnership with BFI Flare: London LGBTQIA+ Film Festival, has announced the return of Five Films for Freedom for its tenth anniversary. This global event showcases five captivating short films from the Philippines, India, Spain, the UK, and the USA. In India, in partnership with The Queer Muslim Project, 12 screenings of the films will be held across ten cities across India with ten partners.

    Free to watch online from 13 March to 24 March, Five Films for Freedom shines a spotlight on LGBTQIA+ narratives that embody resilience and authenticity. Through these films, the audience will get to know more about the emerging LGBTQI+ cinema across the world and understand the life and challenges faced by the community, with themes including identity, love, family, and acceptance.

    From the historic defiance captured in Compton’s 22 in San Francisco to the heartfelt exploration of love and understanding in Halfway, this year’s selection promises to captivate audiences with its diverse and impactful stories. Each of the films touches upon themes of family, identity, and the universal pursuit of acceptance, this lineup offers powerful perspectives on the LGBTQIA+ experience.

    One of the films is the award-winning “Halfway,” directed by Kumar Chheda (India), a moving portrayal of love and reconciliation set against the backdrop of Juhu Beach in Mumbai.

    The other films on the list are:

    •    Little One, Directed by Clister Santos (Philippines)
    •    Cursive, Directed by Isabel Steubel Johnson (UK)
    •    The First Kiss, Directed by Miguel Lafuente (Spain)
    •    Comptons’22, Directed by Drew de Pinto (USA)

    The films will be available to the audiences to view online from 13-24 March. Audiences in India are encouraged to watch the films and share their experiences using the hashtag #FiveFilmsForFreedom. For more information and to access the films, visit the British Arts YouTube channel.

    https://www.youtube.com/@britishartschannel/featured 

  • Jack Black hints at Kung Fu Panda 4 triumph: ‘Possibly the Best Yet’

    Jack Black hints at Kung Fu Panda 4 triumph: ‘Possibly the Best Yet’

    Mumbai: PVR INOX continues to bring international cinema closer to movie buffs across India with exciting initiatives. The cinema chain deputed well-known film critic Sucharita Tyagi to interview the cast and crews of Kung Fu Panda 4 in Los Angeles. The interview featuring the charismatic actor Jack Black, who has voiced “Po” from Kung Fu Panda is now available on PVR’s and INOX’s YouTube channels.

    At the premiere of Kung Fu Panda 4, the atmosphere buzzed with joyous applause and enthusiastic cheers from the audience. When asked about Kung Fu Panda 4 being better than its predecessor, Jack Black responded, “I think it might be the best Kung Fu Panda. The laughs were coming strong. We were killing it, and James Hong and Bryan Cranston were killing me the most. I was dying. Judging from the audience reaction, we were getting tons of laughs.”

    Kung Fu Panda 4 is the latest installment where Po juggles two challenges: becoming the spiritual leader of the Valley of Peace and finding a new Dragon Warrior. However, when a powerful shape-shifting sorceress sets her eyes on his staff of wisdom, he suddenly realizes he is going to need some help. Teaming up with a quick-witted corsac fox, Po soon discovers that heroes can be found in the most unexpected places. Get ready for laughs, heartwarming moments, and epic kung fu battles in this action-packed adventure! The film releases on 15 March 2024 and can be watched at your nearest PVR INOX cinemas.

  • Five reasons to watch ‘Bastar: The Naxal Story’ this weekend

    Five reasons to watch ‘Bastar: The Naxal Story’ this weekend

    Mumbai: Bastar: The Naxal Story delves into the real-life incidents of Naxalism in Chhattisgarh, particularly focusing on the Bastar rebellion that erupted in the region. Scheduled to hit the screens on 15 March 2024, at your nearest PVR INOX cinemas, this film is helmed by Sudipto Sen and stars Adah Sharma, best known for performance in The Kerala Story. This marks their second collaboration after the success of their previous project. If you’re pondering whether to watch Bastar: The Naxal Story, here are five compelling reasons why you shouldn’t miss this gripping masterpiece:

    Adah Sharma’s outstanding performance

    Following her emotionally charged portrayal of Shalini Unnikrishnan in The Kerala Story, Adah Sharma returns as IPS Officer Neerja Madhavan in Bastar: The Naxal Story. With a singular mission to root out threats to India’s sovereignty, Sharma’s performance is nothing short of captivating. Her portrayal will swell your chest with pride and linger in your thoughts long after the credits roll.

    Sudipto Sen’s exceptional direction

    With only two films to his credit, including The Last Monk and The Kerala Story, Sudipto Sen showcases his directorial prowess once again in Bastar: The Naxal Story. His meticulous direction exposes how internal strife undermines the nation’s peace and harmony. Supported by stellar performances from the entire cast, Sen’s tribute to the armed forces resonates deeply, evoking goosebumps and admiration.

    Exploration of relevant themes

    Bastar: The Naxal Story sheds light on pertinent issues plaguing our country, particularly the Naxal insurgency, which has claimed thousands of lives and devastated national assets worth trillions over the past five decades. It stands as one of the gravest human tragedies in independent India’s history.

    Empowering female representation

    Amidst the rise of women-centric films that have found success at the Indian box office, Bastar: The Naxal Story stands out by placing Adah Sharma’s character at the forefront. Portraying a strong advocate for India’s sovereignty, Sharma’s character breaks barriers and challenges traditional norms, embodying power-packed female empowerment.

    Visual spectacle

    One cannot overlook the breathtaking cinematography in Bastar: The Naxal Story. Cinematographer Ragul Dharuman skillfully captures the film’s action sequences, the picturesque landscapes where it unfolds, and the myriad flashbacks and present-day scenes, creating a visual feast for the audience.

    If you’re a fan of films that illuminate societal issues and showcase the valor of our armed forces, don’t miss the premiere of ‘Bastar: The Naxal Story’ this Friday at your nearest PVR INOX cinemas.