entertainment
British actor Tom Wilkinson, known for 'The Full Monty' and 'Michael Clayton,' dies at 75
Tom Wilkinson, the Oscar-nominated British actor known for his roles in “The Full Monty," “Michael Clayton” and “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel,” has died, his family said. He was 75.
A statement shared by his agent on behalf of the family said Wilkinson died suddenly at home on Saturday. It didn't provide further details.
Wilkinson was nominated for a best actor Academy Award for his work in 2001's family drama “In The Bedroom” and in the best supporting actor category for his role in “Michael Clayton,” a 2007 legal thriller that starred George Clooney.
Read: Shilpacharya Zainul Abedin’s 109th birth anniversary being observed
He is remembered by many in Britain and beyond for playing former steel mill foreman Gerald Cooper in the 1997 comedy “The Full Monty," about a group of unemployed steel workers who formed an unlikely male stripping act.
Wilkinson was born in Yorkshire in northern England in 1948 and spent part of his childhood in Canada. He attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in the 1970s.
He starred in dozens of other TV dramas and movies, from “Rush Hour” and “Batman Begins" to “Shakespeare in Love,” “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" and “Valkyrie."
He most recently reunited with his “Full Monty” co-stars, Robert Carlyle and Mark Addy in a Disney+ series of the same name.
“He’ll be sorely missed by everyone who had the pleasure of working with him,” Carlyle said in a statement. “Such a huge performer, a real titan of an actor, one of the greats of not only his, but of any generation.”
Read: 'Parasite' actor Lee Sun-kyun dies
Wilkinson was recognized for his services to drama in 2005 when he was appointed a member of the Order of the British Empire.
He also won a 2009 Golden Globe and 2008 Emmy for his role as Benjamin Franklin in the HBO series “John Adams.”
Wilkinson married actress Diana Hardcastle in 1988. The couple had two daughters.
The year in films: A ‘cinematic’ 2023 for the industry
Like the rest of the world, Bangladesh's cultural and entertainment scene saw a lot of exciting events throughout the year, and enthusiasts across the country were kept occupied by everything that the nation's superstars, artists, and cultural mediums had to offer. The landscape of films in Bangladesh, as a result, observed and celebrated 2023 as one of the most eventful years in memory.
Not only did the year witness the jovial return and continuity of audiences in theatres, it also welcomed a handful of local and foreign films - most notably, the Bollywood blockbusters.
This year marked the importation of Hindi movies once again in the country under the SAFTA agreement, which has been a long-standing demand of cinema hall owners. The demand was fulfilled with the arrival of Shah Rukh Khan starrer Bollywood blockbuster film ‘Pathaan’ in May this year, followed by his other history-making film ‘Jawan’ which marked the same-day release for a Bollywood film in the country’s multiplexes and single screens.
Among other films, Salman Khan starrer 'Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan' failed to entertain local audiences while Ranbir Kapoor’s career-best commercial film ‘Animal’ and Shah Rukh Khan’s latest film, Rajkumar Hirani-made ‘Dunki’ performed moderately in terms of captivating the moviegoers.
The industry was surrounded by talks, opinions, controversies and incidents throughout the year, marking it a special year for the industry - but leaving stakeholders with unfulfilled hopes but significant objectives.
From ‘Mujib’ - the much-anticipated biopic of the Father of the Nation, to the industry’s long-crowned king Shakib Khan’s mega-blockbuster ‘Priyotoma’ and television’s seasoned actor Afran Nisho’s silver screen debut ‘Surongo’ - the film industry in Bangladesh welcomed a total of 51 films, with some achieving economic success and others failing in terms of attracting the moviegoers.
However, a long-standing frustration remained once again the recurring theme in Dhallywood this year, which is the dependency on Eid-based film releases. Festive seasons are understandably the most awaited moments for the filmmakers and hall owners, but other films which were scheduled throughout the year failed to grab a large chunk of the audiences in theatres.
This year, a total of eight films got released across a hundred movie theatres including single-screens and multiplexes on Eid ul Fitr, including the Shakib Khan starrer ‘Leader Amie Bangladesh’, Ananta Jalil’s ‘Kill Him’, Jaaz Multimedia’s ‘Jinn’ and ‘Paap’, alongside four other films - ‘Shotru’, ‘Local’, ‘Adam’ and ‘Prem Pritir Bandhan.’
On the other hand, audience demand for quality films in Eid ul Azha were fulfilled with five movies - 'Priyotoma', 'Surongo', 'Prohelika', 'Lal Shari' and 'Casino'.
That being said, the Eid releases this year include Shakib Khan starrer ‘Leader Amie Bangladesh’ and ‘Priyotoma’ - the latter of which spellbound the viewers with a never-seen-before look of the superstar, and the much-anticipated Raihan Rafi-Afran Nisho-Chorki film ‘Surongo’ captivated the audiences during the Eid festivities.
Aside from Eid, there have been some other films which were able to keep the interest and conversations going and also entertained the moviegoers. The major player in this category was undoubtedly the Shyam Benegal-directed Bangabandhu biopic ‘Mujib-The Making of a Nation’ with Arifin Shuvoo’s valiant portrayal as the Father of the Nation.
Proving the doubters wrong, Shuvoo stunned the audiences and critics with his stellar performances alongside seasoned co-artists Nusrat Imrose Tisha, Tauquir Ahmed, Chanchal Chowdhury, Fazlur Rahman Babu and others. The storyline portrayed Bangabandhu as not only the unsung hero and leader of the nation but also a caring family man who was brilliantly portrayed by Shuvoo, ultimately stunning the moviegoers. Speaking of the actor, his other much-anticipated film ‘Black War’, the sequel to the popular action film ‘Mission Extreme’, also received appraisals from the audiences.
January 2024's Top 10 Hollywood Films: A Cinematic Feast for Movie Lovers
As we usher in 2024, the cinematic landscape is abuzz with excitement. Hollywood is set to release a diverse lineup of films, offering something for everyone in January 2024. From horror to comedy, thriller to drama, these top 10 Hollywood films are not to be missed. Whether you're a fan of edge-of-your-seat suspense, heartwarming tales, or groundbreaking special effects, these January 2024 releases in theaters are sure to captivate audiences worldwide.
10 Must-see Hollywood Films Coming to Theaters in January 2024
Self Reliance | January 3, 2024
Jake Johnson's directorial debut "Self Reliance" is a comedy-thriller that is set to kick off the new year with a bang. Johnson not only directs but also stars in and writes this film, which features a stellar cast including Anna Kendrick, Mary Holland, and Christopher Lloyd.
The plot revolves around a man trapped in a deadly reality game, where he discovers profound life insights. This film, which premiered at the SXSW Film Festival, is a collaboration between MRC Film, Lonely Island Classics, and Walcott Productions, and is a notable addition to the top 10 Hollywood films releasing in January 2024.
Read more: January 2024 Amazon Prime Video Line-up: Must-See Shows and Movies
Night Swim | January 5, 2024
Bryce McGuire's "Night Swim" marks his feature directorial debut in the supernatural horror genre. The film, a spine-chilling tale involving a family's haunted swimming pool, stars Wyatt Russell and Kerry Condon. Produced by horror maestros James Wan and Jason Blum, and set for release by Universal Pictures, "Night Swim" promises to be a compelling watch for horror aficionados among the January 2024 Hollywood movie releases.
The Painter | January 5, 2024
"The Painter," directed by Kimani Ray Smith and written by Brian Buccellato, is an action thriller that adds another dimension to the January 2024 releases. The story of a young woman teaming up with a former CIA agent for an unauthorized case features a strong cast including Madison Bailey and Jon Voight, making it a compelling watch for action movie enthusiasts.
He Went That Way | January 5, 2024
In the true-crime thriller genre, Jeffrey Darling's "He Went That Way" is set to make waves. Based on Conrad Hilberry's non-fiction book about Luke Karamazov and the notorious Larry Lee Ranes, this film stars Jacob Elordi and Zachary Quinto in lead roles.
Read more: 10 Must-Watch Bollywood Films Releasing in January 2024
The story of an animal trainer entangled with a hitchhiker who is a serial killer adds a riveting dimension to the list of top Hollywood films releasing in January 2024.
The Book of Clarence | January 12, 2024
Jeymes Samuel's "The Book of Clarence" is an epic comedy-drama featuring an ensemble cast including LaKeith Stanfield, James McAvoy, and David Oyelowo. This film, which premiered at the BFI London Film Festival, is set in 29 A.D. Jerusalem and follows the journey of Clarence, a man seeking glory by pretending to be a new Messiah. With its release by TriStar Pictures, it's a must-watch among the new Hollywood releases.
Shilpacharya Zainul Abedin’s 109th birth anniversary being observed
The 109th birth anniversary of the master painter and pioneering art educator Zainul Abedin, widely revered as the 'Shilpacharya' (great master of fine arts) and the most respected artist in the country.
Shilpacharya Zainul Abedin was born on December 29, 1914, in Kishoreganj in then-British India, and was a key figure in the establishment of the Dhaka University Faculty of Fine Art (FFA) and the Folk Art Museum in Sonargaon, Narayanganj.
The artist community is celebrating the 109th birth anniversary of the Shilpacharya with a variety of celebrations, most notably the traditional ‘Zainul Utshab’ by Dhaka University's Faculty of Fine Art and Bangladesh Folk Art & Crafts Foundation.
This year, the Faculty of Fine Art is also celebrating its 75th founding anniversary alongside the three-day ‘Zainul Utshab’. The festivity is decorated with rickshaw art, paying homage to its latest UNESCO-recognition.
Read: Bangla Academy felicitates rickshaw painters for achieving UNESCO recognition
DU Vice-Chancellor Professor ASM Maksud Kamal inaugurated the festival as its chief guest on Friday at the Bakultala of the FFA premise. The inauguration ceremony was chaired by DU FFA Dean Nisar Hossain and was also joined by DU FFA Emeritus Professors and eminent artists Hashem Khan and Rafiqun Nabi who handed over the prestigious ‘Zainul Award 2023’ to the respective art luminaries.
Dhaka University Pro VC Professor Dr Muhammad Samad, Treasurer Professor Mamtaz Uddin Ahmed, Bkash CMO Mir Nawbut Ali, Bangladesh Folk Art and Crafts Foundation director Kazi Nurul Islam, and Shilpacharya’s youngest son Engineer Mainul Abedin also joined the inauguration ceremony as the special guests.
Renowned artist Kazi Giasuddin and honorary professor Md Abdus Sattar of the oriental art department received the Zainul Sammanana 2023, while Supriya Kumar Ghosh from the Department of Sculpture was awarded the Zainul Abedin Gold Medal 2023.
Earlier, the Faculty of Fine Art and other art organisations placed floral wreaths on the grave of the Shilpacharya in the morning.
Zainul Abedin earned global respect for his 1943 illustrations of the Bengal famine. He visited Palestinian camps in Syria and Jordan in 1970 and made 60–70 paintings of the refugees there, adding another example of his calibre as a modern, international artist.
Read: ‘Gallery on Wheels’: Cosmos Foundation felicitates Rickshaw Painters as the medium enlisted as UNESCO heritage
During childhood, he discovered his love of art while a young child frolicking by the Brahmaputra river.
His motherland, Bangladesh (then East Pakistan), welcomed him back after he graduated from the Government Art School in Kolkata in 1932. However, shortly after the Indian subcontinent was divided in 1947, he permanently departed Kolkata and returned to his motherland in Bangladesh.
The Dhaka Art Institute was subsequently founded with active help from Zainul Abedin, who was appointed as the institute's principal in 1949. The institute later developed into Dhaka University's Faculty of Fine Art.
The institute became the hub of fine arts practices in then East Pakistan and actively participated in historical foundation events of independent Bangladesh such as the 1952 Language Movement and the 1971 Liberation War under the artistic leadership of Zainul.
He retired from the Dhaka Art Institute in 1967 and was conferred the honorary title of Shilpacharya (great master of fine arts) by the institute.
Before taking the mantle of Shilpacharya, Zainul Abedin received two years of training from the Slade School of Fine Art in London and developed a new style of art called the 'Bengali style' featuring folk art forms with their geometric shapes including the usage of semi-abstract representation and primary colours.
However, he lacked the sense of perspective, realised the limitations of folk art, and went back to nature, rural life and the daily struggles of people to make art that would be realistic but modern in appearance, thus being the pioneer of modern artistic style in the subcontinent.
Known for the simple yet majestic projection of natural and social hazards, Zainul painted the 1970 Bhola cyclone that devastated then East Pakistan, portraying the effect of the cyclone through his painting ‘Monpura’.
January 2024 Amazon Prime Video Line-up: Must-See Shows and Movies
Amazon Prime Video ushers in 2024 with a stellar line-up of shows and movies, elevating the entertainment experience for its viewers. This January, Prime Video is set to captivate audiences with a diverse array of Amazon Prime movies and TV shows, solidifying its position as a leading platform for digital content. Here’s an in-depth look at what Amazon Prime Video has in store, showcasing the unique appeal of each title in the January 2024 roster.
Kickstart the New Year with Must-Watch Amazon Prime Shows
Marry My Husband - South Korean TV Series - January 1
From the creative mind of Shin Yoo-dam, this romantic thriller stars Park Min-young and Na In-woo. An Amazon original produced by Studio Dragon, it weaves a tale of love, betrayal, and revenge, resonating deeply with fans of K-dramas.
James May: Our Man in India - Travel Show - January 5
The latest in the 'James May: Our Man in…' series, this travelogue takes viewers on a culturally rich journey through India. Helmed by director Tom Whitter, the series promises to be a feast for the senses, following the success of its predecessors in Japan and Italy.
Read more: Must-see South Indian Films Releasing in January 2024
Role Play - American Movie - January 12
Starring Kaley Cuoco and David Oyelowo, this action-comedy-thriller explores the hidden life of Emma, a suburban housewife with a secret identity. This Prime original movie, set in New Jersey, blends humor, suspense, and dramatic twists.
Drag Den with Manila Luzon - Philippines TV Show - January 18
Returning for a second season, "Drag Den with Manila Luzon" showcases the vibrant drag scene in the Philippines. Hosted by the charismatic Manila Luzon, the show features judges Nicole Cordoves and Sassa Gurl, promising high energy and fierce competition.
Indian Police Force - Indian Web Series - January 19
Directed by Rohit Shetty, this action-packed series is a part of Shetty's Cop Universe. Featuring Sidharth Malhotra and Shilpa Shetty Kundra, the narrative focuses on an officer's unwavering commitment to justice, weaving a gripping tale of courage and sacrifice.
Read more: Jan 2024 Lineup of Netflix Originals: List of English Movies, TV Shows
'Parasite' actor Lee Sun-kyun dies
Actor Lee Sun-kyun of the Oscar-winning movie “Parasite" has died, South Korea’s emergency office said Wednesday.
Lee was found dead at a car in a central Seoul park on Wednesday, it said.
Police earlier said an unconscious Lee was discovered at an unidentified Seoul location.
Today in History: Actor Paul Walker dies in Porsche crash at age 40
South Korean media outlets including Yonhap news agency reported that police had been searching for Lee after his family reported he left home after writing a message similar to a suicide note earlier Wednesday.
Actor Lee Sun-kyun of the Oscar-winning movie “Parasite” has been found unconscious, South Korean police said Wednesday.
Police officers discovered an unconscious Lee at an unidentified Seoul location on Wednesday but gave no further details, police said.
South Korean media including Yonhap news agency reported that Lee was found dead in a car at a Seoul park. Yonhap cited police as saying they had been searching for Lee after his family reported he left home after writing a message similar to a suicide note earlier Wednesday.
Yonhap said a man was later found unconscious at the Seoul park and that police identified him as Lee. Yonhap said Lee was later confirmed dead. It said a charcoal briquette was discovered in the passenger seat of the car.
Nachiketa's 30th anniversary concert set to enthrall Dhaka
Lee was best known for his role in “Parasite,” in which he played the head of a wealthy family. In 2021, he won a Screen Actors Guild award for “cast in a motion picture” for his role in the same film.
He was nominated for the best actor at the International Emmy Awards for his performance in the sci-fi thriller “Dr. Brain” last year.
Lee was a familiar figure on Korean screens for decades before his “Parasite” fame abroad. He became well-known for his role in a popular drama series, “Coffee Prince (2007),” and gained mainstream popularity with the medical drama “Behind The White Tower,” followed by “Pasta (2010)” and My Mister (2018).”
Beyoncé's childhood home in Houston burns on Christmas morning
Beyoncé’s childhood home caught fire early on Christmas morning, though the family living there escaped safely.
The fire was reported at about 2 a.m. Monday and the Houston Fire Department arrived on the scene of the two-story brick house within three to five minutes, the Houston Chronicle reported.
Read: Charlie Puth set to perform live in Dhaka in February
“We had it contained in about 10 minutes,” Houston Fire Department District Chief Justin Barnes told the newspaper.
Beyoncé Knowles' family bought the home on the 2400 block of Rosedale in 1982 and Beyoncé lived there until she was 5 years old. She was seen taking photos of the property when she was in her hometown for her Renaissance World Tour.
The home in the historic Riverside Terrace neighborhood was built in 1946.
Read: Today in History: Actor Paul Walker dies in Porsche crash at age 40
A messages sent to Beyoncé's publicist was not immediately returned late Monday.
The cause of the blaze was under investigation.
10 Must-Watch Bollywood Films Releasing in January 2024
January 2024 ushers in an array of eagerly anticipated Bollywood films, promising a rich tapestry of storytelling that ranges from high-budget spectacles to pioneering art films. This guide, specially curated for movie enthusiasts and cinephiles, delves deep into the heart of these productions, exploring their captivating plots, star-studded casts, and the unique essence that makes each of them a must-watch.
10 Must-See Bollywood Attractions in the New Year
Fire of Love: RED | January 5
Produced by the trio of Rajeev Chaudhari, Jagannath Waghmare, and Rekha Surendra Jagtap, "Fire of Love: RED" is a labor of love by filmmaker Ashok Tyagi. The film stars Payal Ghosh, Kanchan Bhor, and Krushna Abhishek, with co-producer Shantanu Bhamare in a significant role. It tells the story of Rajveer, a renowned novelist caught in a perplexing blend of fiction and reality.
The movie's allure is further enhanced by Hriju Roy’s melodious music and Akram Khan’s captivating cinematography, presented by Avantika Dattatray Patil under Avanti Prajakta Arts.
Read more: Netflix’s holiday highlights: Top English Christmas films and series of 2023
Tauba Tera Jalwa | January 5
Directed and penned by Akash Aditya Lama, this romantic thriller stars Ameesha Patel, Jatin Khurana, Rajesh Sharma, and Angela Krislinzki. The Altair Media production weaves a tale of romance and danger, centering on the entwined lives of Romi, a daring real estate magnate, and Rinku, a dreamer in search of fairy-tale love.
Their idyllic world is disrupted by an unexpected third person, leading to unforeseen consequences. The film's music by Vikram Montrose and the cinematography duo of Sanjay Mehta and Shakil A. Khan add layers of depth to this gripping story.
Merry Christmas | January 12
Directed by Sriram Raghavan, "Merry Christmas" is a romantic thriller shot simultaneously in Hindi and Tamil. Starring Vijay Sethupathi and Katrina Kaif, with special appearances by Ashwini Kalsekar and Radhika Apte, the film marks the Tamil debut of Raghavan, Kaif, and music composer Pritam, while showcasing Sethupathi's growing presence in Hindi cinema.
Read more: 10 Most Hyped Bollywood Films Releasing in December 2023
The story, shrouded in mystery, unfolds over a fateful Christmas Eve, transitioning from romance to a nightmare scenario. Madhu Neelakandan's cinematography brings this enigmatic tale to life, produced by Tips Films and Matchbox Pictures.
Ruslaan | January 12
"Ruslaan," an action-packed offering from director Katyayan Shivpuri and producer KK Radhamohan under Srisathyasai Arts, features Aayush Sharma, Sushrii Mishraa, and Telugu star Jagapathi Babu.
The film's teaser, released in April 2023, hinted at exhilarating action sequences, with Aayush Sharma in a dynamic avatar. The story by Kewal Ram Shiva and dialogues by Yunus Sajawal are visually brought to life by G. Srinivas Reddy's cinematography.
Read more: 12 Must-watch South Indian Films Releasing in December 2023
Kalki 2898 AD | January 12
Directed by Nag Ashwin, "Kalki 2898 AD" is a sci-fi dystopian epic, emerging as a standout in Indian cinema for its ambitious scale and budget. Produced by C. Aswani Dutt of Vyjayanthi Movies, the film boasts an impressive cast including Amitabh Bachchan, Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Kamal Haasan, and Disha Patani.
The movie, with a budget of approximately Rs. 600 crore, is a testament to the grandeur of Indian filmmaking. Santhosh Narayanan’s music and Djordje Stojiljkovic's cinematography elevate the film, which is set to release in Hindi, Telugu, Malayalam, Tamil, Kannada, and English.
Ferdous' door-to-door electoral campaign charms Dhaka-10 voters
Prominent actor and National Film Award winner Ferdous Ahmed, who has become a candidate for the upcoming national election from the Dhaka-10 constituency from Awami League, has been enthralling the voters of this constituency with his marathon electioneering.
The actor launched his election campaign on December 18, marking his first-ever candidacy for the desired seat in the national parliament.
Ever since Ferdous launched his campaign, the actor has been showered with love from people across the constituency, not only as a debut candidate from the ruling party but also for his massive stardom as an actor.
He has been seen visiting the locals in Dhanmondi, Kalabagan, Newmarket and Hazaribagh areas with his campaign, distributing leaflets and talking to the voters while asking for their votes and prayers.
Read: AL picks actor Ferdous for Dhaka-10
As the newest candidate in this constituency, Ferdous Ahmed is equipped with logistics and manpower for the campaign from Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) Mayor Barrister Sheikh Fazle Noor Taposh, the former MP elected from this constituency.
Voters are seen charmed and overwhelmed while meeting the superstar and asking for selfies, and the actor was seen tirelessly dealing with the requests with his signature, charismatic smile which many of his voters have previously seen from a distance, only on silver screens or television and other mediums.
Ferdous campaigned in Ward 18 of Newmarket on Sunday throughout the day. During that time, he said, “If I get elected, I will make Dhaka-10 seat a perfect 10 out of 10. This seat is one of the most important and populous constituencies in the whole country. It's time to make the cluttered yet smarter city even smarter.”
His colleagues in Dhallywood are also seeking votes for the actor from the voters. Veteran silver-screen actor Misha Sawdagar, the longtime on-screen nemesis in many of Ferdous’ movies, was seen campaigning for him on Sunday night in the capital’s Rayerbazar area.
Read: Ferdous Wahid returns home after successful bypass surgery
“Ferdous has always been a close younger brother to me and one of the most decent, educated and smart co-workers in Dhallywood for us. He has a clean image without any scandals and we wholeheartedly believe that he is a great choice for this constituency, and our gratitude to the ruling party for nominating him,” Misha told media during the campaign.
Rubel, a local tea staller in the Kalabagan area, said: “As a Dhallywood movie lover, I have been an avid fan of Ferdous. Today he smiled at me, shook my hands and asked for the vote. Never imagined seeing him in person, this close to me.”
“I couldn't resist the urge to take photos with Ferdous Bhai in front of me. It was very crowded. Still, after asking to take a picture, he stood and took a picture with us with a smile on his face,” Rony, another fan who met the actor during this campaign, told UNB.
Must-see South Indian Films Releasing in January 2024
As the South Indian film industry continues to captivate audiences globally, January 2024 is set to be a landmark month with an impressive lineup of films from Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada cinema. These industries, known for their diverse offerings, are ready to enthrall film enthusiasts with a variety of genres and star-studded casts. This preview delves into the most anticipated South Indian films scheduled for release in January 2024, promising a rich tapestry of storytelling, performances, and cinematic experiences.
12 Must-Watch South Indian Movies to Kick Off the New Year
Guntur Kaaram | Telugu | January 12
"Guntur Kaaram" (GK), a dynamic action film directed by Trivikram Srinivas and produced by Haarika & Hassine Creations, features a star-studded cast including Mahesh Babu, Sreeleela, and Meenakshi Chaudhary.
The movie centers around GK, the ruler of the city's underground, who unexpectedly falls for a journalist committed to exposing hidden criminal networks. Thaman S's captivating music, combined with Manoj Paramahamsa's stunning cinematography and Naveen Nooli's seamless editing, creates a thrilling cinematic experience.
Read more: Netflix’s holiday highlights: Top English Christmas films and series of 2023
Hanu Man | Telugu | January 12
Prasanth Varma's "Hanu Man" introduces the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe (PVCU) with a new superhero narrative set in the mythical village of Anjanadri. Teja Sajja, Amritha Aiyer, and Varalaxmi Sarathkumar lead the cast in this innovative tale. Siddhartha Nuni's visual mastery and Arjun Janya's musical brilliance work in tandem to bring this extraordinary story to life, marking a significant moment in Telugu cinema.
Naa Saami Ranga | Telugu | January 24
"Naa Saami Ranga," directed by Vijay Binni, is a period-action drama featuring stars like Nagarjuna, Allari Naresh, and Raj Tarun. Adapted from the 2019 Malayalam hit "Porinju Mariam Jose," the narrative is set in the historical context of Thrissur during the 1980s and 1990s.
Oscar-winner M. M. Keeravani composes the film's music, adding a layer of authenticity and depth to this adaptation, which draws from real-life events. Shivendra Dasaradhi's cinematography and Chota K. Prasad's editing further enhance the film's appeal.
Read more: 10 Most Hyped Bollywood Films Releasing in December 2023
Lal Salaam | Tamil | January 12
Aishwarya Rajinikanth's "Lal Salaam," produced by Subaskaran Allirajah under the banner of Lyca Productions, is a sports drama that brings together Vishnu Vishal and Vikranth in lead roles. The film also features special appearances by megastar Rajinikanth and cricket legend Kapil Dev.
The narrative focuses on the challenges faced by two cricketers amidst religious and communal tensions. A. R. Rahman's musical genius, Vishnu Rangasamy's engaging cinematography, and B. Pravin Baaskar's editing skills make "Lal Salaam" a must-watch for sports and drama enthusiasts.
Captain Miller | Tamil | January
Directed by Arun Matheswaran, "Captain Miller" is an action-adventure set in the tumultuous period of British India during the 1930s-1940s. The film, originally titled D47, features Dhanush in a challenging role, supported by a talented cast including Priyanka Arul Mohan and Shiva Rajkumar.
Read more: 12 Must-watch South Indian Films Releasing in December 2023
G. V. Prakash Kumar's music, Siddhartha Nuni's cinematography, and Nagooran Ramachandran's editing combine to create a riveting tale of rebellion and resistance. Scheduled for a Pongal release, the film is expected to captivate audiences with its portrayal of historical struggles and heroism.
Thangalaan | Tamil | January 26
"Thangalaan," directed by Pa. Ranjith and produced by K. E. Gnanavel Raja, stars Vikram in his 61st film role. This historical action drama, set against the backdrop of the British colonial era in India, focuses on the resistance led by a tribal leader against British exploitation.
G. V. Prakash Kumar's score and A. Kishor Kumar's cinematography bring depth and authenticity to the narrative, which highlights the struggle for justice and independence during a pivotal time in Indian history.
Read more: Top Hyped Hollywood Films of 2024: The Blockbuster Bonanza