Entertainment
Showcasing glorious days of Jatra, Aruna Biswas’s debut film 'Ashomvob' releases today
Acclaimed Dhallywood actress Aruna Biswas’s debut directorial venture ‘Ashomvob’ is being released across 20 theatres across the country on Friday.
The state-financed movie features an ensemble cast of seasoned actors, including Abul Hayat, Aruna Biswas, Shatabdi Wadud, Sohana Saba, Gazi Abdun Noor, Shahed Sharif Khan, Swagta, and ‘Jatra Empress’ Jyotsna Biswas in a special role.
The film puts its special spotlight on ‘Jatrapala’, the glorious traditional medium of entertainment in Bengal. Additionally, the plot of the film also revolves around the everyday lives of the rural community and the 1971 Liberation War.
According to Aruna Biswas, the actress-turned-filmmaker, the story of ‘Ashomvob’ revolves around culture, patriotism, love, conflict and many other aspects, highlighting a simple yet passionate narrative.
Read: Aruna Biswas’s debut film 'Ashomvob' set to release this October
“My debut film ‘Ashomvob’ is being released in theatres around the country today. I am grateful to the actors/actresses, journalists/writers, cultural workers, and friends who have shown their support for ‘Ashomvob’ on television, Facebook, Instagram and other platforms,” Aruna Biswas wrote on her social media platforms.
“This is my modest request to the audience: please come and watch ‘Ashomvob’, support me, our artists and support the Bangladesh film industry. ‘Ashomvob’ is going to appeal to you, I believe,” she added.
Marking the release, the cast members along with director Aruna Biswas are visiting theatres in the city. The film is already receiving positive responses from moviegoers on its opening day.
Read: On big screen, moviegoers find new way to appreciate Bangabandhu in Shyam Benegal's biopic
In a recent interview with UNB, the film’s lead actor Gazi Abdun Noor said that It was a privilege for him to work in the movie 'Ashomvob'. “In this film, I played the role of Sri Amalendu Biswas, who is revered as the ‘Emperor of Jatra’ in the country. I got the chance to act alongside eminent actors in our industry including the legendary actor Abul Hayat This film is made with passion and care by Aruna Biswas, one of the most popular faces in our film industry - and I am happy to be a part of it.”
Initially scheduled to be released in October, the film postponed its release out of respect to the nationwide showcasing of the Bangabandhu biopic ‘Mujib: The Making of a Nation.”
Read more: Bongo BD to release South Indian comedy movie 'F2: Fun and Frustration' with Bengali version this week
Death of Homayra Himu: RAB arrests one from Dhaka’s Bangshal
Rapid Action Battalion (Rab) on Friday arrested a man in connection with the death of popular actress Homayra Himu from Dhaka’s Bangshal area.
The arrestee was identified as Mohammad Ziauddin Alias Rufi, said ASP Imran Khan of RAB Headquarters (Media Wing).
Further details relating to the arrest will be disclosed later, he said.
Homayra Himu, one of the renowned faces in the country’s television industry, died at her residence on Thursday.
She was brought to Uttara Bangladesh Medical College in the capital on Thursday afternoon and upon inspection, the on-duty doctor of the hospital pronounced her dead.
Born on 23 November, 1985 in Lakshmipur district, Himu completed her HSC from Ispahani College and later obtained her bachelors and master’s degrees from Eden Women's College in the capital.
She started her acting career in theatre, and her television acting career started with the 2006 drama "Chayabithi." Subsequently, she showcased her acting skills in several well-known drama serials, including "Housefull," "Gulshan Avenue," "Bari Bari Sari Sari," "Sonaghat," "Batighar," "Shonena Sey Shonena," "Chairman Bari" and more.
Himu made her silver screen debut with acclaimed filmmaker Morshedul Islam-directed 'Amar Bondhu Rashed' in 2011 and got critically acclaimed for her performance.
Renowned actress Homayra Himu passes away
Homayra Himu, one of the renowned faces in the country’s television industry, died at her residence on Thursday.
She was brought into the Uttara Bangladesh Medical College in the capital on Thursday afternoon and upon inspection, the on-duty doctor of the hospital pronounced her dead, according to Actors Equity Guild President and actor Ahsan Habib Nasim.
Although yet to be confirmed, all available information suggests that the actress took her own life. Details regarding her postmortem and other rituals are yet to be informed.
According to Nasim, the actress was brought to the hospital by her younger sister and another man who is suspected to be her lover. He went missing when the doctors called the police for an investigation regarding the death.
Born on 23 November, 1985 in Lakshmipur district, Himu completed her HSC from Ispahani College and later obtained her honours and masters degrees from Eden Women's College in the capital.
She started her acting career in theatre, and her television acting career started with the 2006 drama "Chayabithi." Subsequently, she showcased her acting skills in several well-known drama serials, including "Housefull," "Gulshan Avenue," "Bari Bari Sari Sari," "Sonaghat," "Batighar," "Shonena Sey Shonena," "Chairman Bari" and more.
Himu made her silver screen debut with acclaimed filmmaker Morshedul Islam-directed 'Amar Bondhu Rashed' in 2011 and got critically acclaimed for her performance.
Celebrities and her close acquaintances in the media have been sharing their grief and love for the acclaimed actress on their social media handles after being informed about her untimely and unfortunate demise.
Top 10 Highest-Earning Bangladeshi Films
The Dhallywood film industry has witnessed a compelling journey in the history of Bangladeshi cinema. The cinematic endeavors have resonated with the audiences and left an indelible mark on the Dhallywood box office. This article presents an exploration of the highest-earning Bangladeshi films to date. Let’s get a snapshot of Bangladeshi movies that have etched their names on the hearts of this film-loving nation.
Top 10 Dhallywood Box Office Toppers of All Time
Priyotoma | Tk 41.23 Crore
Priyotoma', produced by Arshad Adnan under the banner of Versatile Media, has carved its name in the domestic romantic action genre. Directed by Himel Ashraf, the film tells a tragic love story that leaves an indelible mark on audiences. The narrative was penned by the late Faruk Hossain, with Himel Ashraf contributing to the screenplay and dialogues. The film features Shakib Khan, the highest-paid leading actor in Bangladesh, and Idhika Paul, a small-screen actress from Kolkata.
Upon its release on June 29, 2023, 'Priyotoma' made a resounding impact by collecting BDT 10 crore in its first week, exceeding its budget of BDT 2.5 crore.
Notably, this cinematic masterpiece holds several box office records, standing as the highest-grossing Bangladeshi film of 2023 and all time.
The film's excellence is further underscored by its recognition at the 22nd BABISAS (Bangladesh Binodon Sangbadik Samity) Awards. There it received nine awards, including Best Actor and Best Actress in the Special Honors category.
Read more: List of English Language Netflix Originals Coming in November 2023
Beder Meye Josna | Tk 20 Crore
Directed and written by Tozammel Haque Bokul, this classic remains a shining example of storytelling that transcends generations. 'Beder Meye Josna' draws inspiration from a rural Bangla play of the same name, delving into a love story between a gypsy girl and a prince. Released on June 9, 1989, the film starred Ilias Kanchan and Anju Ghosh.
Notably, the movie's budget stood at a humble BDT 20 lakh, a far cry from the blockbuster budgets of today. Nevertheless, 'Beder Meye Josna' emerged as a financial titan, becoming the highest-grossing Bangladeshi film until the year 2023.
A survey conducted by the British Film Institute recognized this cinematic gem, ranking it among the top 10 films of Bangladesh.
The audio cassette of the film's songs sold one lakh copies within a month of its release. Written by Hasan Motiur Rahman and sung by Mujeeb Pardes, the song 'Ami Bondi Karagare' remained on people's lips for the next few decades. Except for this, the rest of the songs were penned by the director, Tozammel Haque Bokul.
The melodious tunes, including the title song 'Beder Meye Josna,' sung by Andrew Kishore and Runa Laila, cemented its immortality in the world of Bangladeshi cinema.
Read more: Coke Studio Bangla concert to return with an ensemble line-up on Nov 10 at Army Stadium
Shopner Thikana | Tk 19 Crore
'Shopner Thikana,' directed by MA Khalek, offers a window into the legacy of legendary hero Salman Shah. The film, which was scripted by Chatku Ahmed, takes its inspiration from a story by Nurul Islam Parvez. Released on May 11, 1995, 'Shopner Thikana' featured Shabnoor and Sonia as Salman Shah's lead co-artists.
'Shopner Thikana' presented a compelling narrative centered around the dynamics of rich-poor relationships and love triangles. Almost all of the cinema's songs, including 'Ae Din Se Din Koni Din,' acquired top positions of the radio charts. All thanks to the creative genius of renowned composer and music director Late Alam Khan.
Hawa | Tk 16 Crore
'Hawa' stands as a unique mystery-drama film that weaves a tale based on a myth. The production company, Sun Music and Motion Pictures Limited released the cinema on July 29, 2022.
Read more: ‘In time we will say more’: Friends stars say after Matthew Perry’s death
There was an ensemble cast under the direction of Mejbaur Rahman Sumon. Chanchal Chowdhury, Nazifa Tushi, Sariful Razz, Sumon Anowar, Shohel Mondol, Nasir Uddin Khan, and Rizvi Rizu were among the main actors.
The film portrays the intriguing journey of an all-men team aboard a fishing trawler. Their encounter with a beautiful yet mysterious young girl sets the stage for a series of inexplicable events.
The film was selected as Bangladesh's entry for the 'Best International Feature Film' category at the 95th Academy Awards. The film also garnered a place on the shortlist for the 80th Golden Globe Awards.
Read more: Shakib Khan set to star Pan-Indian film 'Dard' alongside Sonal Chauhan
Priya Amar Priya | Tk 15 Crore
This Badiul Alam Khokon-directed romantic action movie marked a turning point in Shakib Khan's career. Produced by Monir Hossain under the banner of Asha Production, this film was released on June 13, 2008.
The film's story was crafted by Puri Jagannadh, with the screenplay penned by Sachin Nag. 'Priya Amar Priya' showcases the performances of Sahara along with Shakib in the lead roles.
The movie established itself as the top-earning Bangladeshi film of 2008 and earned its place as one of the all-time highest-earners in Bangladesh. Furthermore, the movie stands as the pinnacle of Shakib's cinematic journey up to 2019.
His exceptional performance earned him the Meril-Prothom Alo Awards for Best Actor, the Euro-CJFB Performance Awards, and the Channel I Performance Awards.
Read more: Chirkutt’s Sumi to join global music conference in Norway
Coke Studio Bangla concert to return with an ensemble line-up on Nov 10 at Army Stadium
The much-anticipated live concert of the popular musical programme Coke Studio Bangla is returning for the second edition titled “Coke Studio Bangla Live 2.0” on November 10 at the capital’s Army Stadium.
This year, the fans will enjoy an exclusive Coke Studio Bangla experience like never before as the concert is set to feature an ensemble cast of seasoned and popular music artists from Coke Studio Bangla seasons one and two.
The lineup will feature Coke Studio Bangla’s artists from both seasons like Shayan Chowdhury Arnob, Animes Roy, Pantho Kanai, Momotaz Begum, Mizan Rahman, Ritu Raj, Sanzida Mahmood Nandita, Nigar Sultana Sumi, Jalali Set, Ripon Kumar Sarkar (Boga), Sunidhi Nayak, Soumyadeep Sikdar (Murshidabadi), Kaniz Khandaker Mitu, Md Makhon Mia, Rubayat Rehman, Jannatul Firdous Akbar, Shanila Islam, Armeen Musa and Ghashphoring Choir, Riad Hasan, Pollob Vai, Meghdol, Sohana (Daughter of coastal), Mukul Mojumder Ishaan, Pritom Hasan, Islam Uddin Palakar, Fazlu Majhi, Emon Chowdhury, Arfan Mredha Shiblu, Aleya Begum, Fuad Al Muqtadir, Tasfia Fatima Tashfee, Suchona Shelly, Bappa Mazumder and Hamida Banu.
Also read: Dilaram: Coke Studio Bangla concludes Season Two by paying tribute to Hason Raja
To enhance the festivities, the concert will also feature special guests including Elita Karim, Shuvo (D rockstar), Anuradha Mandal, Shawon Gaanwala, Moktadir Dewan Shanto as well as captivating band performances by Hatirpool Sessions and Lalon Band.
From the energetic notes of “Nasek Nasek” to the enchanting rhythms of “Kotha Koiyo Na” - this event promises to mesmerise audiences with one of the most unique concert experiences with stunning performances by Coke Studio Bangla artists.
Although the concert will officially start at 6 pm, the gates at the venue will be opened at 1:30 pm, and the pre-show will start at 3 pm. Audiences will be engaged in fun and refreshing activities at the venue during this period.
Also read: “Nodir Kul”: Coke Studio Bangla’s tranquil ode to Polli Kobi Jashimuddin
Abeer Rajbeen, Head of Marketing, Coca-Cola Bangladesh Limited said, “Coke Studio Bangla is hugely popular across Bangladesh and we have been inundated with requests from fans to once again host a live concert. A battalion of over 100 musicians on the platform is ready to regale the audiences with the taste of Coke Studio Bangla’s magic. We believe this time the fans will have a captivating and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
To secure tickets for the concert, music lovers have the option of obtaining them by unwrapping labels from selected limited-edition Coca-Cola ICC/ Coke Studio Bangla concert labelled 600 ml or 1.25-litre bottles to reveal unique codes.
Upon scanning the QR codes and entering the unique code found on the back of each bottle’s label, consumers will receive a digital coin. By accumulating 5 digital coins, individuals can win a ticket to the Coke Studio Live concert. Additionally, consumers can also acquire tickets using ICC World Cup coins.
Also read: ‘Deora’: Coke Studio Bangla’s latest featuring Pritom and Islamuddin Palakar is an instant hit
Besides purchasing Coca-Cola bottles, another alternative method to obtain tickets is by ordering food worth BDT 600 through Foodpanda and, on the same day, purchasing two of Coca-Cola’s 600ml or one 1.25-litre bottle from Pandamart.
Tickets are also available by purchasing Coca-Cola Combo meals at the following restaurants; Burger King, MadChef, Digger, Pagla Baburchi, Herfy, Crisp, Cheez, CP Five Star, and Chillox.
Coke Studio Bangla fans can also purchase tickets from Tickify.Com
Since its inception in February 2022, Coke Studio Bangla has released 22 songs with nearly 100 talented singers and musicians. The first edition of this concert took place in July last year, also marking the first large-scale, open-air concert featuring all Bangladeshi artists after the Joy Bangla Concert in 2020 and the global outbreak of COVID-19.
The platform has unearthed the hidden treasures of Bangla music and culture, allowing music enthusiasts, particularly the younger generation, to immerse themselves in the enchantment of Bangla music.
Also read: ‘Murir Tin’: Coke Studio Bangla launches season 2 with nod to local dialects
Throughout both seasons, fans have consistently expressed their love, making Coke Studio Bangla Live a gesture of gratitude from the platform to acknowledge and appreciate the fans and their unwavering love and support.
More information and updates are available on the official Coke Studio Bangla Facebook page.
Poran, Kura Pokkhir Shunne Ura jointly win National Film Award-2022 in Best Film category
Md Tamzidul Alam’s Poran, and Muhammad Quayum’s Kura Pokkhir Shunne Ura have been jointly announced as winners in the 'Best Film' category in National Film Award 2022.
The Information and Broadcasting Ministry issued a gazette notification announcing the names of recipients for the National Film Award 2022 on Tuesday (October 31).
Eminent artists Kamrul Alam Khan Khasru and Rawshan Ara Ranu, Rozina have been honoured with the 'Lifetime Achievement Award' for their contributions to the film industry.
Also read: National Film Award recipients for 2021 announced
Every year, the government honours artists in various categories, for their contributions to the film industry.
The award is considered to be the most prestigious prize given for films in Bangladesh.
Thirty-three awards will be given in 27 categories this year.
Chanchal Chowdhury received the best actor award in the lead role (male) for the film 'Hawa' while Joya Ahsan and Rikita Nandini Shimu jointly got the award for the best actress in the lead role (female) for the film 'The Beauty Circus' and 'Shimu' respectively.
Also read: PM gives away National Film Awards to 32 winners
The 'Best Director' prize will go to Syeda Rubaiyat Hossain, for "Shimu".
'Ghore Fera', directed by SM Kamrul Ahsan, won the award in the best short film category, while Bangabandhu and Dhaka University' got the award for the best documentary category.
The award for the best-supporting role award went to Nasir Uddin Khan for the film “Poran” while Afsana Mimi won the best supporting actress award for the film ' Paap Punya'.
Subhashis Bhowmik was awarded best actor in a negative role for the film 'Deshantor'. Deepu Imam got the award for comedy in the film 'Operation Sundarban’.
Muntaha Amelia won the best child artiste award for the film 'Birotto', while a special award in the children division went to Farzina Akter for the film ' Kura Pokkhir Shunne Ura'.
Ripon Khan (Mahmudul Islam Khan) bagged the best music director's award for the 'Paayer Chhap' film. Bappa Mazumder and Chandan Sinha jointly won the award in the best singer (male) category for 'E mon bhije jay' song in Operation Sundarban film and ‘Thikanabihin tomake’ in Hridita film.
Also read: Info Ministry announces national film awards 2020 winners
The best singer (female) award went to Atia Akhtar Anisha for ‘E Shohorer Pothey Pothey’ from the ‘Paayer Chhap’ film.
The best lyricist award went to Rabiul Islam (Jibon) for the 'Dhire Dhire Tor Shopne’ song of the 'Poran' film.
Shouquat Ali Imon won the best composer award for the film 'Paayer Chhap'.
Faridur Reza Sagar and Khorshed Alam jointly won the best story writer award for ‘Damal’ and ‘Golui’ respectively.
The other award winners are: Mohammad Abdul Qayyum (screenwriter), SA Haque Alik (dialogue), Sujan Mahmud (best editing), Himadri Barua (best art direction), Asaduzzaman Mojnu (best cinematographer), Ripon Nath (sound designer), Tansina Shawon (costume and design) and Md Khokon Molla (best makeup artists).
‘In time we will say more’: Friends stars say after Matthew Perry’s death
The world is mourning the untimely death of Matthew Perry, a beloved star of the iconic 90s’ TV sitcom, “Friends”. The actor, who portrayed the quick-witted Chandler Bing, passed away at the age of 54 on Saturday, leaving his co-stars and fans devastated.Perry was discovered unresponsive in a hot tub at his Los Angeles residence, and the cause of death remains inconclusive, pending toxicology test results, reports BBC.
Matthew Perry, Emmy-nominated 'Friends' star, dead at 54In a heartfelt joint statement, Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Matt LeBlanc, David Schwimmer, and Lisa Kudrow, Perry's close friends both on and off the screen, expressed their profound grief over his loss. They described the bond they shared as more than mere castmates, labeling themselves a "family." "We are all so utterly devastated by the loss of Matthew," the Friends cast said in a statement.
Which important ‘Friends’ character was almost recast?"We were more than just castmates. We are a family. There is so much to say, but right now we're going to take a moment to grieve and process this unfathomable loss. In time we will say more, as and when we are able."For now, our thoughts and our love are with Matty's family, his friends, and everyone who loved him around the world."
7 Things That Happened On the ‘Friends Reunion’Matthew Perry had faced well-documented struggles with addiction to painkillers and alcohol during the peak of his fame. In 2016, he disclosed on BBC Radio 2 that he couldn't recall three years of filming Friends due to substance abuse.The Los Angeles Fire Department reported that Perry was found deceased in the jacuzzi at his Pacific Palisades home by a bystander, added the reportFans worldwide paid their respects, with floral tributes left outside the iconic Friends apartment building in New York. Matthew Perry's death marks the loss of a beloved actor and a compassionate soul whose legacy extends far beyond the television screen.
First-ever Arka Fashion Week concludes in style
Showcasing a tantalising array of fashion and cultural celebrations with a mission to democratise fashion, the first-ever Arka Fashion Week draws its closure at the Aloki Convention Centre, Tejgaon in the capital.
Over 50 entrepreneurs and brands are participating in this three-day event which works with fashion, fashion accessories and fashion-related products, made in Bangladesh; and the event catered to more than 5,000 attendees in three days from October 26.
Amid the nationwide political unrest, the premises of Aloki Convention Center became bustling with fashion-loving youth, influencers and entrepreneurs on the concluding day.
Bringing a refreshing perspective to the nation's fashion industry, Arka Fashion Week got underway on October 26. Even though most of the attendees were the ‘Gen G’ fashionistas, people from all walks of life joined the fashion festivity with much curiosity as everyone wandered around, stopped by the stands of different fashion entrepreneurs, purchased their desired products and enjoyed the collective offerings at the event.
The biennial event was joined by 35 fashion companies and designers. These skilled and driven entrepreneurs had carefully chosen and curated their signature collections, showcased in an exclusive setting titled ‘Marketplace’ that included Western, fusion, traditional, sustainable, artistic, and unique clothes and accessories.
Read: Igniting the Fashion Revolution In Bangladesh, Arka Fashion Week begins
Along with the marketplace, there were eight fashion shows on its second and third day, and the inaugural day consisted of a pageant competition titled “Miss and Mister Celebrity Bangladesh 2024.” The new womenswear brand Kathal debuted through a special runway show and launched its first collection at Arka Fashion Week.
Matthew Perry, Emmy-nominated 'Friends' star, dead at 54
“Friends” star Matthew Perry, the Emmy-nominated actor whose sarcastic, but lovable Chandler Bing was among television’s most famous and most quotable characters, has died at 54.
The actor was found dead of an apparent drowning at his Los Angeles home Saturday, according to the Los Angeles Times and celebrity website TMZ, which was the first to report the news. Both outlets cited unnamed sources confirming Perry's death.
“Matthew was an incredibly gifted actor and an indelible part of the Warner Bros. Television Group family,” the company said in a statement. “The impact of his comedic genius was felt around the world, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of so many. This is a heartbreaking day, and we send our love to his family, his loved ones, and all of his devoted fans.”
Read: Meryl Streep, husband living separately for more than six years
Perry’s publicists and other representatives did not immediately respond to messages from The Associated Press seeking comment.
Asked to confirm police response to what was listed as Perry’s home address, LAPD Officer Drake Madison told the AP that officers had gone to that block “for a death investigation of a male in his 50s.”
Perry's 10 seasons on “Friends” made him one of Hollywood's most recognizable actors, starring opposite Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Matt LeBlanc, Lisa Kudrow and David Schwimmer as a friend group in New York.
As Chandler, he played the quick-witted, insecure and neurotic roommate of LeBlanc's Joey and a close friend of Schwimmer's Ross. During the show's hijinks, he could be counted on to chime in with a line like “Could this BE any more awkward?” or another well-timed quip.
Perry was open about his long and public struggle with addiction, writing at the beginning of his 2022 million-selling memoir: "Hi, my name is Matthew, although you may know me by another name. My friends call me Matty. And I should be dead.”
“Friends” ran from 1994 until 2004, winning one best comedy series Emmy Award in 2002. The cast notably banded together for later seasons to obtain a salary of $1 million per episode for each.
Read: Ayub Bachchu’s fifth death anniversary on Wednesday
By the “Friends” finale, Chandler is married to Cox's Monica and they have a family, reflecting the journey of the core cast from single New Yorkers trying to figure their lives out to several of them married and starting families.
The series was one of television’s biggest hits and has taken on a new life — and found surprising popularity with younger fans — in recent years on streaming services.
Perry described reading the “Friends” script for the first time in his memoir, “Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing.”
“It was as if someone had followed me around for a year, stealing my jokes, copying my mannerisms, photocopying my world-weary yet witty view of life. One character in particular stood out to me: it wasn’t that I was thought I could ‘play’ Chandler. I ‘was’ Chandler.”
Unknown at the time was the struggle Perry had with addiction and an intense desire to please audiences.
“'Friends' was huge. I couldn’t jeopardize that. I loved the script. I loved my co-actors. I loved the scripts. I loved everything about the show but I was struggling with my addictions which only added to my sense of shame,” he wrote in his memoir. “I had a secret and no one could know.”
“I felt like I was gonna die if the live audience didn’t laugh, and that’s not healthy for sure. But I could sometimes say a line and the audience wouldn’t laugh and I would sweat and sometimes go into convulsions,” Perry wrote. “If I didn’t get the laugh I was supposed to get I would freak out. I felt that every single night. This pressure left me in a bad place. I also knew of the six people making that show, only one of them was sick.”
He recalled in his memoir that Aniston confronted him about being inebriated while filming.
“I know you’re drinking,” he remembered her telling him once. “We can smell it,” she said, in what Perry called a “kind of weird but loving way, and the plural ‘we’ hit me like a sledgehammer.”
In the foreword to Perry's memoir, Lisa Kudrow described him as “whip smart, charming, sweet, sensitive, very reasonable, and rational.” She added, “That guy, with everything he was battling, was still there.”
An HBO Max reunion special in 2021 was hosted by James Corden and fed into huge interest in seeing the cast together again, although the program consisted of the actors discussing the show and was not a continuation of their characters' storylines.
Perry received one Emmy nomination for his “Friends” role and two more for appearances as an associate White House counsel on “The West Wing.”
Perry also had several notable film roles, starring opposite Salma Hayek in the rom-com “Fools Rush In” and Bruce Willis in the the crime comedy “The Whole Nine Yards.”
He worked consistently after “Friends,” though never in a role that brought him as much attention or acclaim.
Read: Seminar, film screening to commemorate late film personalities Syed Salahuddin Zaki and Mahbub Alam
In 2015, he played Oscar for a CBS reboot of “The Odd Couple” that aired for two seasons. He told the AP that playing Oscar Madison, the character originally made famous in the 1960s series by Walter Matthau, was a “dream role.” He also said he was surprised how much he enjoyed being filmed again in front of a live audience.
“I didn’t realize I missed it really until it actually happened, til we actually shot the pilot and there was a studio audience there and I realized, ‘Wow, I really like this. This is nice,’” he said. “You kind of ham up for the people in the audience. My performance never got better than when there was an audience there.”
Perry was born Aug. 19, 1969, in Williamstown, Massachusetts. His father is actor John Bennett Perry and his mother, Suzanne, served as press secretary of Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau and is married to “Dateline” correspondent Keith Morrison.
Top 10 Bollywood Movies Being Released in November 2023
Each month ushers the arrival of new movies in the Bollywood film industry, and November is no exception. Movie enthusiasts are eagerly waiting for hindi films spanning a spectrum of genres ranging from high-budget commercial films, to creative art films. Let’s take a look into the stories, and casts of the best10 Bollywood films being released in November 2023.
10 Most Anticipated Bollywood Films for November 2023
Hukus Bukus | November 3, 2023
Darsheel Safary, known for his performance in Taare Zameen Par, is set to return to the big screen in Hukus Bukus. It features Safary as a young cricketer, deeply inspired by the iconic Sachin Tendulkar. The cinema also stars Arun Govil in the role of Safary’s father.
Hukus Bukus explores the concept of molding one's entire personality after a sporting legend.
The movie was helmed by Vinay Bhardwaj and Saumitra Singh, with a script written by Ranjit Singh Mashiana. The cast also includes Mir Sarwar, Gautam Vij, Meenakshi Chugh, Manish Gaharwar, and Sujata Sehgal.
The production company associated with the project is Shining Sun Studios.
Read more: Shakib Khan set to star Pan-Indian film 'Dard' alongside Sonal Chauhan
Three Of Us | November 3, 2023
This touching relationship drama unfolds against the enchanting backdrop of Maharashtra's Konkan region. Notable actors Shefali Shah, Swanand Kirkire, and Jaideep Ahlawat take on the leading roles. The storyline follows a woman grappling with dementia, who reunites with her childhood sweetheart.
Directed by Avinash Arun, this film provides a captivating narrative of introspection, rediscovery, exploration, and the harsh realities of life. The music for the movie is crafted by Alokananda Dasgupta, while the cinematography is skillfully executed by Avinash Arun. The editing is the work of Sanyukta Kaza.
Lakeerein - Behind Closed Doors | November 3, 2023
This socio-drama film delves into the complex and often underreported issue of rape within the context of marriage. Durgesh Pathak and Surya Saxena's story has been adapted into a film by Durgesh Pathak with the screenplay written by Dilip Shukla.
Lakeerein is produced by Image & Creation, BTC Multimedia, and Blackpearl Movies, and distributed by Reliance Entertainment.
Read more: 12 Most Awaited South Indian Movies Releasing in November 2023: A Sneak Peek
Set in Lucknow and Ayodhya, the movie explores the legal, societal, and emotional challenges faced by the victims of this issue. the cinema's ensemble cast includes Ashutosh Rana, Bidita Bag, Gaurav Chopra, and Tia Bajpai.
Aankh Micholi | November 3, 2023
Aankh Micholi, a comedy film, is directed by Umesh Shukla and bankrolled by Ashish Wagh and Umesh Shukla. This film revolves around a family of misfits trying to hide some secrets from the NRI suitor. Their goal is to marry their daughter off to the NRI guy, and with it in the plot, the film takes a series of comical turns.
The cast includes Paresh Rawal, Abhimanyu Dassani, and Mrunal Thakur in leading roles. The cinema's cinematography is handled by Sameer Arya, and the editing is overseen by Steven H. Bernard. The music is composed by Sachin-Jigar.
UT 69 | November 3, 2023
UT 69 film revolves around Raj Kundra's time in jail and his endeavor to adapt to the challenging prison environment. Raj Kundra, a renowned entrepreneur and the spouse of Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty, portrays the lead role in this biographical feature. Directed and edited by Shahnawaz Ali, UT 69 offers a unique perspective on Kundra's prison life.
Read more Aruna Biswas’s debut film 'Ashomvob' set to release this October
The screenplay for this intriguing film is written by Vikram Bhatti.
Apart from Raj Kundra, UT 69 boasts a supporting cast that includes Kumar Saurabh, Sadanand Patil, Anand Alkunte, and Gaurav Mishra. Production companies involved in this creation are SVS Studio and The Bigger Picture Films.