Cinema
Much-Watch Bollywood Films Releasing in May 2024
Thanks to top-notch storytelling and rapid advancements in film technology, a touch of diversity is often evident in Bollywood releases. And, this influx of Hindi cinema with diverse genres is observed throughout the year. As a result, film enthusiasts throughout the subcontinent eagerly anticipate the latest Bollywood movies. Let’s take a sneak peek into the must-see Bollywood film lineup for May 2024.
Most Hyped Bollywood Movies Coming This May
Pyar Ke Do Naam | Romantic Drama | May 3, 2024
Written, directed, and co-produced by Danish Javed, the film stars Bhavya Sachdeva, Ankita Sahu, Namita Lal, and Kanika Gautam. This captivating love story unfolds at the iconic Aligarh Muslim University, where two scholars, Aryan and Kaira, clash over their beliefs in togetherness versus commitment during a prestigious peace seminar. The expression of the screenplay embodies the ideologies of Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi.
Srikanth | Biographical Drama | May 10, 2024
This film chronicles the journey of Srikanth Bolla, an Indian industrialist who founded Bollant Industries despite being visually impaired. Directed by Tushar Hiranandani, it features Rajkummar Rao in the titular role, alongside Alaya F, Jyothika, Jameel Khan, and Sharad Kelkar.
Read more: Must-watch South Indian Films Hitting the Screens in April 2024
‘Srikanth’ follows Blind Srikanth's journey to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and his establishment of Bollant Industries. The storyline portrays his pursuit of goals for the visually impaired while facing entrepreneurial challenges and navigating personal sacrifices. Through this life struggle the obstacles overcome by the blind in academics and business are highlighted.
Tipppsy | Adventure-Thriller | May 10, 2024
The film, directed by and starring Deepak Tijori, takes its title from the initials of five girls' names in the movie. ‘T’ stands for Tanya, ‘I’ for Iris, ‘P’ for Pony, ‘S’ for Seline, and ‘Y’ for Yami.
Natasha Suri, former Miss World India, portrays Tanya. Nazia Hussain, Sanjay Dutt's niece, plays Iris, a tomboyish DJ and the bossy among the group. Alankrita Sahai takes on the role of Pony, while Sonia Birje, also a DJ and daughter of Hemant Birje, plays the role of Seline, an independent and adventurous woman. And, Lastly, Kainaat Arora portrays Yami, a Haryanvi character.
Read more: Most-hyped Bollywood Movies Releasing in April 2024
The girls started journey to visit Goa for Pony's bachelorette party, but things take a turn for the worse.
Kartam Bhugtam | Psychological Thriller | May 17, 2024
Directed and written by Soham P. Shah, the film stars Shreyas Talpade and Vijay Raaz in lead roles, with Madhoo and Aksha Pardasany in the supporting roles.
The story revolves around the immutable laws of karma and destiny, deeply rooted in the ancient wisdom of Vedic astrology. It offers a cinematic exploration of the belief that every individual's actions inevitably shape their future.
Read more: May 2024 Netflix English Originals Lineup: Must-see Releases
OJ Simpson, fallen US football hero acquitted of murder, dies at 76
O.J. Simpson, the decorated football superstar and Hollywood actor who was acquitted of charges he killed his former wife and her friend but was found liable in a separate civil trial, has died. He was 76.
The family announced on Simpson’s official X account that Simpson died Wednesday after battling prostate cancer. Simpson’s attorney confirmed to TMZ that he died in Las Vegas.
Simpson earned fame, fortune and adulation through football and show business, but his legacy was forever changed by the June 1994 knife slayings of his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend Ronald Goldman in Los Angeles.
Live TV coverage of his arrest after a famous slow-speed chase marked a stunning fall from grace.
He had seemed to transcend racial barriers as the star Trojans tailback for college football’s powerful University of Southern California in the late 1960s, as a rental car ad pitchman rushing through airports in the late 1970s, and as the husband of a blond and blue-eyed high school homecoming queen in the 1980s.
“I’m not Black, I’m O.J.,” he liked to tell friends.
The public was mesmerized by his “trial of the century” on live TV. His case sparked debates on race, gender, domestic abuse, celebrity justice and police misconduct.
A criminal court jury found him not guilty of murder in 1995, but a separate civil trial jury found him liable in 1997 for the deaths and ordered him to pay $33.5 million to family members of Brown and Goldman.
A decade later, still shadowed by the California wrongful death judgment, Simpson led five men he barely knew into a confrontation with two sports memorabilia dealers in a cramped Las Vegas hotel room. Two men with Simpson had guns. A jury convicted Simpson of armed robbery and other felonies.
Imprisoned at age 61, he served nine years in a remote northern Nevada prison, including a stint as a gym janitor. He was not contrite when he was released on parole in October 2017. The parole board heard him insist yet again that he was only trying to retrieve sports memorabilia and family heirlooms stolen from him after his criminal trial in Los Angeles.
“I’ve basically spent a conflict-free life, you know,” said Simpson, whose parole ended in late 2021.
Public fascination with Simpson never faded. Many debated whether he had been punished in Las Vegas for his acquittal in Los Angeles. In 2016, he was the subject of both an FX miniseries and five-part ESPN documentary.
“I don’t think most of America believes I did it,” Simpson told The New York Times in 1995, a week after a jury determined he did not kill Brown and Goldman. “I’ve gotten thousands of letters and telegrams from people supporting me.”
Twelve years later, following an outpouring of public outrage, Rupert Murdoch canceled a planned book by the News Corp.-owned HarperCollins in which Simpson offered his hypothetical account of the killings. It was to be titled “If I Did It.”
Goldman’s family, still doggedly pursuing the multimillion-dollar wrongful death judgment, won control of the manuscript. They retitled the book “If I Did It: Confessions of the Killer.”
“It’s all blood money, and unfortunately I had to join the jackals,” Simpson told The Associated Press at the time. He collected $880,000 in advance money for the book, paid through a third party.
“It helped me get out of debt and secure my homestead,” he said.
Less than two months after losing the rights to the book, Simpson was arrested in Las Vegas.
David Cook, an attorney who has been seeking since 2008 to collect the civil judgment in the Ron Goldman case, said he spoke with Fred Goldman, father of Ron, on Thursday about Simpson’s death. Cook declined to say what Fred Goldman said or where he was.
“He died without penance,” Gook said of Simpson. “We don’t know what he has, where it is or who is in control. We will pick up where we are and keep going with it.”
Simpson played 11 NFL seasons, nine of them with the Buffalo Bills, where he became known as “The Juice” on an offensive line known as “The Electric Company.” He won four NFL rushing titles, rushed for 11,236 yards in his career, scored 76 touchdowns and played in five Pro Bowls. His best season was 1973, when he ran for 2,003 yards — the first running back to break the 2,000-yard rushing mark.
“I was part of the history of the game,” he said years later. “If I did nothing else in my life, I’d made my mark.”
Of course, Simpson went on to other fame.
One of the artifacts of his murder trial, the carefully tailored tan suit he wore when acquitted, was later donated and placed on display at the Newseum in Washington. Simpson had been told the suit would be in the hotel room in Las Vegas, but it turned out it wasn’t there.
Orenthal James Simpson was born July 9, 1947, in San Francisco, where he grew up in government-subsidized housing projects.
After graduating from high school, he enrolled at City College of San Francisco for a year and a half before transferring to the University of Southern California for the spring 1967 semester.
He married his first wife, Marguerite Whitley, on June 24, 1967, moving her to Los Angeles the next day so he could begin preparing for his first season with USC — which, in large part because of Simpson, won that year’s national championship.
Simpson won the Heisman Trophy in 1968. He accepted the statue the same day that his first child, Arnelle, was born.
He had two sons, Jason and Aaren, with his first wife; one of those boys, Aaren, drowned as a toddler in a swimming pool accident in 1979, the same year he and Whitley divorced.
Simpson and Brown were married in 1985. They had two children, Justin and Sydney, and divorced in 1992. Two years later, Nicole Brown Simpson was found murdered.
“We don’t need to go back and relive the worst day of our lives,” he told the AP 25 years after the double slayings. “The subject of the moment is the subject I will never revisit again. My family and I have moved on to what we call the ‘no negative zone.’ We focus on the positives.”
Sky-high Laughs with a Hint of Turbulence: 'Crew' starting Tabu, Kareena, Kriti Takes Off!
Get ready for a comedic jaunt through the skies with "Crew," the latest sensation to hit cinemas on March 29, 2024. This comedy-drama chronicles the adventures of three glamorous flight attendants navigating the collapse of the airline they work for and plotting a daring scheme for revenge. Will their plan soar to comedic heights or crash into the realm of absurdity? Fasten your seatbelts for an entertaining journey in "Crew."
Read more: Bollywood movie ‘Crew' premieres at Star Cineplex
Director, Production Team, and Cast
Helmed by Rajesh A Krishnan, "Crew" showcases the talents of Tabu, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Kriti Sanon as spirited air hostesses. With support from Diljit Dosanjh and Kapil Sharma, the film is a production marvel under Balaji Motion Pictures and Anil Kapoor Films & Communication Network, with producers Ekta Kapoor, Rhea Kapoor, Anil Kapoor, and Digvijay Purohit steering the project to success.
Star Cineplex brings ‘Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire’ for cine lovers
To enthral the moviegoers and the fans of the critically acclaimed and commercially successful ‘MonsterVerse’ franchise, Star Cineplex is bringing the new Hollywood film ‘Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire,’ on the same day of its global release.
The film is going to be released internationally on March 29, and will also be released in Star Cineplex branches across Bangladesh on the same day.
Must-watch South Indian Films Hitting the Screens in April 2024
The fifth film in the MonsterVerse franchise, the 38th film in the Godzilla franchise and the 13th film in the King Kong franchise, the film is a sequel to ‘Godzilla vs. Kong’ (2021) which was a great commercial and critical success despite being released during the COVID-19 global pandemic.
With Adam Wingard once again in the director’s chair, the film stars Rebecca Hall, Brian Tyree Henry, Dan Stevens, Kaylee Hottle, Alex Ferns, and Fala Chen. Among the artists, Rebecca Hall, Henry, and Hottle reprised their roles from the previous film.
One inhabits a forested desert island, while the other is a prehistoric-looking monster rising from the depths of the Pacific Ocean. One lives on a mysterious island called Skull Island - while the other is from beneath the ocean. With their two distinct origins, Kong and Godzilla get together to combat a mystery Hollow Earth menace while simultaneously focusing on the Titans' and Skull Island's unexplored origins.
Most-hyped Bollywood Movies Releasing on March 2024
The popularity of Legendary Film's MonsterVerse franchise is evident from the fact that the films in the MonsterVerse franchise have brought a completely different appeal to the audience due to their eye-catching graphics and skilful editing, according to the cinephiles.
Must-watch South Indian Films Hitting the Screens in April 2024
South Indian movie releases are always a mega festive affair. The Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada film industries have already started releasing teasers, trailers, and posters. Movie lovers are on a quest to enrich their watchlist across action, comedy, and thriller genres. Let’s get a sneak peek into the finest lineup of April 2024 releases.
12 Most-hyped South Indian Movies Set to Rock This April
Indian 2 | Tamil | April 11, 2024
This vigilante action film, directed by S. Shankar, serves as a sequel to "Indian" (1996). In this second installment, Kamal Haasan reprises his role as Senapathy, an aging freedom fighter turned vigilante who combats corruption. Senapathy returns to India from Hong Kong after discovering the ongoing corruption and injustice in the country through social media.
‘Indian 2’ boasts an ensemble cast including S. J. Suryah, Rakul Preet Singh, Priya Bhavani Shankar, Kalidas Jayaram, Kajal Aggarwal, Siddharth, and Gulshan Grover.
The film was split into two parts, with the latter titled "Indian 3", shot simultaneously in the second half of 2023.
Read more: March 2024 South Indian Films Line-up: Must-watch Releases
Rathnam | Tamil | April 26, 2024
Directed and written by Hari, this action film was initially titled "Vishal 34", as it marks Vishal's 34th lead role. This project marks Vishal's third collaboration with Hari after "Thaamirabharani" (2007) and "Poojai" (2014).
The lyric video of the first single, ‘Vaarai Rathnam’, offers a glimpse of an action-packed plot. In the video, Vishal was seen battling against goons in front of a deity's idol and displaying intense rage by beheading a man.
This film presents Vishal in the titular role, alongside Priya Bhavani Shankar, Ramachandra Raju, Samuthirakani, Gautham Vasudev Menon, and Yogi Babu.
The music and background score are composed by Devi Sri Prasad, marking his debut collaboration with Vishal.
Read more: Amazon Prime Originals in March 2024: List of New Shows and Movies
Train | Tamil | April 30, 2024
Under the directorial guidance and musical composition of Mysskin, the movie showcases the talents of Vijay Sethupathi and Dimple Hayati in leading roles. This film marks Sethupathi's second collaboration with director Mysskin, following an extended cameo role in the unreleased horror thriller 'Pisasu 2'.
‘Train’ is anticipated to be a gripping dark action thriller, with the narrative unfolding during a train journey. The ensemble cast includes Ira Dayanand, Bhavana, Yugi Sethu, Nassar, Vinay Rai, Babloo Prithviraj, Sampath Raj, KS Ravikumar, Thrigun Arun, Ganesh Venkatraman, Kaniha, Diya Seetipalli, Raichal Rabecca, Singam Puli, Sriranjani, and Ajay Rathnam.
Family Star | Telugu | April 5, 2024
Directed and written by Parsuram Petla, the movie stars Vijay Devarakonda in the central role. This signifies the second creative venture shared between Vijay Deverakonda and Parsuram. Within the frames of 'Family Star', Vijay collaborates with Mrunal Thakur and Divyansha Kaushik, while Rashmika Mandanna graces the screen with a special cameo appearance.
The storyline of this family-oriented film revolves around a working-class hero who is willing to resort to violence if his family faces any threat. Portrayed as a middle-class individual, he demonstrates his toughness by breaking beer bottles and confronting goons. Despite being a family man, he also exhibits frugality by expecting the girl to contribute to petrol expenses if he offers her a ride.
Read more: Netflix English Originals Coming in March 2024
Sasivadane | Telugu | April 5, 2024
Directed and penned by Sai Mohan Ubbana, the romantic movies feature the dynamic pairing of Rakshit Atluri and Komalee Prasad.
‘Sasivadane’ narrates the tale of Sasi and Raghava, traversing through the realms of love against the picturesque backdrop of Konaseema. The ensemble cast includes Rangasthalam Mahesh, Jabardasth Bobby, Sriman, Deepak Prince, and Praveen Yandamuri.
Geethanjali Malli Vachindi | Telugu | April 11, 2024
Choreographer Shiva Turlapati makes his directorial debut with this horror-comedy film. Serving as the official sequel to Raj Kiran's 2014 movie ‘Geethanjali’, it also commemorates the 50th film for its female lead, Anjali.
The movie also stars Srinivas Reddy, Satya, Satyam Rajesh, Ravi Shankar, Shakalaka Shankar, Mohammad Ali, and Brahmaji.
To provide a sneak peek into the film's theme and storyline, the 'Geethanjali Malli Vachindi' team selected the Begumpet graveyard in Hyderabad for the teaser launch.
Read more: February 2024 Amazon Prime Originals: Most-Hyped Shows, Series, and Movies
Most-hyped Bollywood Movies Releasing in April 2024
Bollywood movies consistently deliver incredible cinematic experiences each month, securing a significant place in the Asian film industry. With world-class storytelling and rapid advancements in film technology, Hindi cinema has set its own standard. Consequently, movie lovers across the entire subcontinent eagerly await new Bollywood releases. Let’s take a sneak peek into the 10 must-see Bollywood films hitting screens in April 2024.
Top 10 Picks from April 2024 Bollywood Releases
Dukaan | Drama | April 5, 2024
This drama marks the directorial debut of the screenwriter duo Siddharth Singh and Garima Wahal, renowned for their work on films such as ‘Ram-Leela’ (2013) and ‘Kabir Singh’ (2019).
Set in Gujarat, ‘Dukaan’ unfolds the tale of Jasmine, a young woman engaged in surrogacy, offering solace to couples facing fertility issues. The movie features Monika Panwar, Sikandar Kher, Monali Thakur, and Soham Majumdar.
Read more: Sadi Mohammad laid to eternal rest at Mohammadpur
JNU | Political Thriller | April 5, 2024
Directed and written by Vinay Sharma, the film's ensemble cast includes Urvashi Rautela, Siddharth Bodke, Piyush Mishra, Rashami Desai, Sonnalli Seygall, Kunj Anand, Ravi Kishan, and Vijay Raaz.
The plot revolves around Sourabh Sharma, a student at JNU, who becomes entangled in the complex interplay of education and nationalism.
The resemblance of the university name to Jawaharlal Nehru University and the inclusion of a student political storyline have sparked significant controversy among netizens.
Maidaan | Sports Biography | April 11, 2024
Co-written and directed by Amit Sharma, this sports film stars Ajay Devgn as Syed Abdul Rahim, a football coach during the period from 1952 to 1962.
Read more: March 2024 South Indian Films Line-up: Must-watch Releases
‘Maidaan’ chronicles the life and journey of Syed Abdul Rahim, credited with transforming the Indian Football Team into the 'Brazil of Asia' with their innovative 4-2-4 formation.
The movie's cast also includes Priyamani, Gajraj Rao, and Rudranil Ghosh. The sports action sequences are meticulously planned and choreographed by Rob Miller, known for his outstanding work in ‘83’ (2021), ‘Bhaag Milkha Bhaag’ (2013), and ‘Chak De! India’ (2007). Adding to the film's allure, the music is composed by the maestro AR Rahman.
Amar Singh Chamkila | Musical Biography | April 12, 2024
In Imtiaz Ali's latest directorial spectacle, audiences are introduced to Amar Singh Chamkila, a pivotal figure in Punjab's folk music scene. Known as the highest record-selling artist of his time, Chamkila was often hailed as the 'Elvis Presley of Punjab'.
Portraying the titular role is Diljit Dosanjh, while Parineeti Chopra steps into the role of Amarjot, Chamkila’s wife and singing partner. With music helmed by the legendary AR Rahman and lyrics penned by Irshad Kamil, the movie promises to be a musical extravaganza.
Read more: Amazon Prime Originals in March 2024: List of New Shows and Movies
Heightening the intrigue, both Diljit and Parineeti have contributed their vocal talents to select tracks featured in the film's soundtrack.
Bade Miyan Chote Miyan | Action Thriller | April 12, 2024
This Yash Raj Films production is made under the script and direction of Ali Abbas Zafar. The film stars Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff in the lead roles, alongside Prithviraj Sukumaran, Sonakshi Sinha, Ronit Bose Roy, Manushi Chhillar, and Alaya F.
‘Bade Miyan Chote Miyan’ follows two elite soldiers with contrasting personalities and maverick methods. Despite their differences, they must collaborate to transport offenders to justice and save the day.
This Hindi movie is also scheduled for release in dubbed versions in Tamil, Kannada, Telugu, and Malayalam.
Read more: Netflix English Originals Coming in March 2024
Most-hyped Bollywood Movies Releasing on March 2024
Springtime in Bollywood brings a bouquet of cinematic delights. Directors' artistic flair and the magnetic allure of star actors turn into a kaleidoscope of diverse genres – from comedy to thriller. As the season unfolds, anticipation mounts for stunts, dialogues, and music. Let's see what surprises Bollywood films releasing in March 2024 have in store for movie lovers.
10 Must-see Bollywood Films Coming This March
Accident or Conspiracy: Godhra / March 1, 2024
This drama, produced by OM Trinetra Films and Artverse Studios, is directed by M.K. Shivaaksh. It delves into the intricacies surrounding the 2002 Godhra train burning in Gujarat, India.
Drawing from the authoritative findings of the Nanavati-Mehta Commission, assigned to investigate the incident, the film aims to unearth the truth. Was it an impulsive act borne of chaos, or a meticulously orchestrated scheme?
Accident or Conspiracy: Godhra has an ensemble cast including Ranvir Shorey, Denisha Ghumra, Manoj Joshi, and Hitu Kanodia. The movie’s inaugural song is performed by the renowned Kailash Kher under the composition of V. Rakx.
Read more: February 2024 Amazon Prime Originals: Most-Hyped Shows, Series, and Movies
Operation Valentine / March 1, 2024
This historical action thriller marks the directorial debut of Shakti Pratap Singh Hada and is produced by Sony Pictures and Sandeep Mudda, with co-production by God Bless Entertainment and Nandkumar Abbineni.
Set to be a patriotic, edge-of-the-seat entertainer, the movie will spotlight the Indian Air Force heroes on the front lines, depicting the challenges they faced during one of India's biggest aerial attacks.
Simultaneously shot in Telugu and Hindi, it stars Manushi Chhillar, Varun Tej, Mir Sarwar, and Navdeep in pivotal roles. Mickey J Meyer crafted the evocative soundtrack and background score.
Shaitaan / March 8, 2024
This supernatural horror thriller, directed by Vikas Bahl, is produced under Ajay Devgn FFilms, Jio Studios, and Panorama Studios. The film stars Ajay Devgn, Janki Bodiwala, Jyothika, and R. Madhavan, and is a remake of the 2023 Gujarati film ‘Vash’.
Read more: Netflix English Originals Coming in March 2024
The story follows a happy family on vacation to a secluded village, where they encounter a mysterious man claiming to be their well-wisher. However, his intentions turn sinister as he resorts to black magic to manipulate and torment them. As the family realizes they are in grave danger, they must fight for survival against the malevolent forces at play.
Yodha / March 15, 2024
Directed by Sagar Ambre and Pushkar Ojha, this action thriller movie is bankrolled by Karan Johar, Hiroo Yash Johar, and Apoorva Mehta under Dharma Productions. The film features Raashii Khanna, Sidharth Malhotra, and Disha Patani in leading roles.
The story unfolds as terrorists hijack a passenger plane, prompting an off-duty soldier aboard to devise a strategy for defeating the hijackers and ensuring the passengers' survival amidst engine failure.
Yodha's music is composed by Tanishk Bagchi and B Praak, with lyrics penned by B Praak and Manoj Muntashir.
Read more: Top South Indian Films Hitting the Screens in February 2024
Bastar: The Naxal Story / March 15, 2024
Directed and written by Sudipto Sen, this crime genre movie is produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah. Adah Sharma portrays I.G. Neerja Mathur, alongside an ensemble cast including Shilpa Shukla, Raima Sen, Yashpal Sharma, and Subrat Dutta.
‘Bastar’ draws inspiration from the real-life events surrounding the Naxals in Chhattisgarh. The narrative is rooted in the historical context of the Bastar rebellion that erupted in 1910, offering a poignant reflection on the region's tumultuous past.
March 2024 South Indian Films Line-up: Must-watch Releases
As the vibrant colors of spring become more prominent, the South Indian film industry prepares to dazzle audiences with a spectacular array of new releases. Brilliant movie creators from each of the Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada cinema are coming to showcase their best craft in diverse genres. This upcoming festive season promises an eclectic mix of entertainment for cinephiles of all tastes. Explore the cinematic landscape of this March with these 12 unmissable releases.
12 Must-see South Indian Movies Premiering in March 2024
Por | Tamil | March 1, 2024
The action-drama is crafted in both Tamil and Hindi versions, titled 'Por' and 'Dange' respectively. 'Por' features master actor Arjun Das and Kalidas Jayram, with Sanchana Natarajan in a supporting role. In the Hindi version, Harshvardhan Rane and Ehan Bhatt lead, supported by Nikita Dutta. However, TJ Bhanu appears in both versions.
Bejoy Nambiar, the director and co-writer of the film, also serves as a producer alongside Prabhu Antony and Madhu Alexander.
The movie extends its narrative up to explore cultural identity, friendship complexities, and intense rivalry. Set against a vibrant college festival backdrop, it delves into the intricate dynamics between two friends whose paths diverge, sparking fierce competition.
Read more: Amazon Prime Originals in March 2024: List of New Shows and Movies
J Baby | Tamil | March 8, 2024
Directed by Suresh Mari, a former associate of Venkat Prabhu and Pa Ranjith, this drama film stars Dinesh, Urvashi, and Lollu Sabha Maaran. This Pa Ranjith production centers around Urvashi's portrayal of the titular character.
'J Baby' primarily explores the theme of motherhood, depicting the poignant journey of a son in search of his lost mother.
Rebel | Tamil | March 22, 2024
The film, starring music composer and actor GV Prakash, is directed and written by debutant Nikesh. Set in the 1980s in Munnar, it portrays the story of a rebellious student, employing a non-linear screenplay to unravel the tales of the town's inhabitants.
Making her debut as a female lead is Mollywood actress Mamitha Baiju. The cast also includes Shalu Rahim, Venkitesh VP, Adhithya Baskar, Subramaniya Siva, Kalloori Vinoth, and Karunas.
Read more: Netflix English Originals Coming in March 2024
Double iSmart | Telugu | March 8, 2024
This is a science fiction action film written and directed by Puri Jagannadh, who co-produced the film with Charmme Kaur under the banner of Puri Connects. The movie stars Ram Pothineni and Sanjay Dutt in the lead roles and serves as a sequel to the 2019 film, ‘iSmart Shankar’.
The latest installment revolves around a plot where a deceased police officer's memories are transplanted into another's brain, with an assassin aiding the authorities.
‘Double iSmart’ is set to be released in multiple versions, including Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Hindi languages.
Bhimaa | Telugu | March 8, 2024
This action drama film, directed by A. Harsha and written by Ajju Mahakali, features Gopichand in the titular role.
Read more: Most Hyped Bollywood Films Releasing in February 2024
Set in a rural backdrop, Gopichand portrays a police officer who stands taller than the malevolent forces plaguing the land, dedicated to protecting the people through decisive action.
The supporting roles in ‘Bhimaa’ are played by Priya Bhavani Shankar, Malvika Sharma, Nassar, and Vennela Kishore. Ravi Basrur was roped in for the music composition of the movie.
Tillu Square | Telugu | March 29, 2024
This romantic crime comedy film is directed by Mallik Ram, with a screenplay by Ravi Anthony and Sidhu Jonnalagadda. This installment serves as the sequel to the 2022 film "DJ Tillu," featuring Siddhu Jonnalagadda reprising his role alongside Anupama Parameswaran as the female lead.
As Tillu finds himself embroiled in a mysterious murder, the movie plot takes unexpected twists and turns.
Read more: February 2024 Amazon Prime Originals: Most-Hyped Shows, Series, and Movies
‘The Cord of Life’ bags best film as curtain falls on 22nd DIFF
The 22nd Dhaka International Film Festival (DIFF) concluded on Sunday, awarding Qiao Sixue-directed Chinese movie ‘The Cord of Life’ as the Best Film this year.
As for the Bangladeshi and Bengali language films, the Syam Benegal-directed biopic on Bangabandhu titled ‘Mujib: The Making of a Nation’ received the Audience Award, while the Special Audience Award was given to the Abhijit SriDas-directed Indian-Bengali film ‘Bijoyar Pore’ (Autumn Flies).
Pantho Prosad-directed ‘Sabittri’ (A Burning Soul) received the FIPRESCI Award for Best Full-Length Feature Film, Baishaki Somadder directed ‘Laila’ received the FIPRESCI Award for Best Short Film, Best Cinematography went to the Bangladesh-France-Greece joint-production film ‘Mighty Afrin - In the Time of Floods’ and ‘Surot’ (Reflection of Life) won the Special Mention at the Spiritual Film Section,
A total of 18 awards were given in different categories at the closing ceremony of the 22nd Dhaka International Film Festival, at the Bangamata Sheikh Fazilatunnesa Mujib Auditorium of Bangladesh National Museum in the capital, organised by the Rainbow Film Society.
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The closing ceremony was joined by the State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Mohammed Ali Arafat, while globally acclaimed Iranian filmmaker Majid Majidi, eminent Indian-Bengali actress Sharmila Tagore, Secretary of the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism Secretary Mokammel Hossain, and Bangladesh National Museum Director General Md Kamruzzaman, among others.
Presided over by DIFF Chief Patron and former State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shahriar Alam MP, the ceremony was also joined by Dhaka International Film Festival’s maestro Director Ahmed Muztaba Zamal, festival committee member M Hamid, and DIFF Chairperson Kishwar Kamal.
In the Asian Cinema Competition Section, the Best Director award went to Jagath Manuwarna for ‘Rahas Kiyana Kandu’ (Whispering Mountains). Popular Indian-Bengali singer-filmmaker Anjan Dutt received the Best Actor Award for his brilliant performance in the role of his maestro Mrinal Sen in his directorial film ‘Chalchitra Ekhon’ (Kaleidoscope Again), while the Best Actress Award went to the Chinese actress Badema for ‘The Cord of Life’, the Best Film at the 22nd DIFF.
The award for Best Screenplay Writing went to Dov" (Fortune), directed by Muhiddin Muzaffar (Tajikistan), and the Best Cinematography award was handed over to ‘Mighty Afrin - In the Time of Floods’, directed by Angelos Rallis (Bangladesh, France, Greece).
As for the Women Filmmakers Section, Nancy Svendsen (USA) directed ‘Pasang: In the Shadow of Everest’ won the Best Documentary Award, while the Best Feature Film Award went to the Iranian film ‘Ashghal-ha va Arousak-ha’ (Junks & Dolls), directed by Manijeh Hekmat. South Korean filmmaker Gyeongmu NOH won Best Director for the film ‘How to Get Your Man Pregnant’, and Bangladeshi filmmaker Chaitali Somadder received the Special Mention for ‘Mukti’ in this section.
The Spiritual Films Section recognised this year’s submission by awarding the Best Feature Film to the Russian film ‘Tuda I Obratno’ (There and Back), directed by Oleg Asadulin, and ‘Kunanfinda: The Land of Death’, directed by Hansel Leyva Fanego (Cuba) received the award for the Best Documentary while Golam Rabbani-directed Bangladeshi film ‘Surot’ received the Special Mention award.
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Meanwhile, the Best Children Film Badal Rahman Award went to ‘Pravas’ (Pravas the Tour), directed by Vipul Sharma (India).
From January 20, the 22nd DIFF featured 252 films from 71 countries, including Bangladesh, India, China, Turkey, Iran, the United States, Sri Lanka and others. Films were screened at the Bangamata Sheikh Fazilatunnesa Mujib Auditorium (main auditorium) and Poet Sufia Kamal Auditorium of the Bangladesh National Museum, National Art Gallery Auditorium and Jatiya Sangeet and Nrityakala Auditorium of the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA), Ministry of Foreign Affairs' Academy Auditorium, and Alliance Française de Dhaka (AFD), Dhanmondi in the capital.
Besides the screenings, the 22nd DIFF also featured the '10th International Women Filmmakers Conference' on the role of women in films from January 21-22 and West Meets East: Screenplay Lab from January 15 to 18 at Alliance Francaise de Dhaka.
This year, the festival also hosted a day-long master class with eminent film scholar Dr Shi Chuan, Deputy Chair of the Shanghai Film Association of China, globally renowned Iranian filmmaker Majid Majidi and Indian filmmaker, actor and singer Anjan Dutt.
Rainbow Film Society has been organising the Dhaka International Film Festival since 1992 with the theme Better Film, Better Audience, Better Society.
The 23rd DIFF will be held between January 11-19 in 2025, according to the festival director Ahmed Muztaba Zamal.
February 2024 Amazon Prime Originals: Most-Hyped Shows, Series, and Movies
Amazon Prime's content list spans genres and cultures, from gripping originals to international titles. As the valentine's month approaches, this popular platform presents a diverse selection of romantic films and series, ensuring a heartwarming streaming experience. Thrillers, action, and even dark-themed narratives are also included in this collection. Let's take a look at what surprises await the entertainment lovers in the lineup of Amazon Prime for February 2024.
10 Must-See Amazon Prime Shows Streaming in February 2024
Mr. & Mrs. Smith - American Spy Comedy Series - February 2
Crafted by Francesca Sloane and Donald Glover, this TV series is a modern take on Simon Kinberg's 2005 film. Starring Glover and Maya Erskine, with supporting roles from Alexander Skarsgard, Sarah Paulson, and Ron Perlman, and guest appearances by John Turturro, Paul Dano, and Michaela Coel.
The plot centers on a duo of spies strategically teamed to assume the identities of a married couple, John and Jane Smith.
All eight episodes will be released simultaneously for an uninterrupted streaming experience.
Read more: Top South Indian Films Hitting the Screens in February 2024
Upgraded - American Romantic Comedy - February 9
Helmed by Carlson Young, the film features Camila Mendes, Archie Renaux, Lena Olin, Marisa Tomei, and Thomas Kretschmann. The writing credits go to Christine Lenig, Luke Spencer Roberts, and Justin Matthews.
The storyline unfolds around a twist of fate that occurs when Ana is upgraded to first class during a work trip, leading to an encounter with the charming Will. Mistaken for her boss, Claire, Ana's white lie sets in motion a series of glamorous events, entwining romance, and opportunities, until the falsehood she spun threatens to unravel.
Silent Service: The Battle of Tokyo Bay - Japanese Action Series - February 9
This series is an adaptation of the renowned Japanese manga franchise created by artist Kaiji Kawaguchi. Directed by Kohei Yoshino, Teppei Nakamura, Masatoshi Kurakata, and Yuki Kishizuka, screenplay credits go to Hikaru Takai and Tetsuo Kamata.
The diverse ensemble cast features Takao Osawa, Hiroshi Tamaki, Aya Ueto, Yusuke Santamaria, Tomoya Nakamura, Aoi Nakamura, and more.
The narrative centers on Shiro Kaieda, assigned as the captain of Japan’s inaugural nuclear submarine, a joint project between Japan and the United States conducted in utmost secrecy. However, Kaieda and his 76 crew members veer off the established path, exploring themes of nuclear war, international politics, and world peace.
The series unwraps over six episodes, with the final two episodes set to be released a week later.
Read more: February 2024 Lineup of Netflix Originals in English
Five Blind Dates - Australian Romantic Comedy - February 13
Directed and scripted by actor and influencer Shuang Hu alongside actor and comedian Nathan Ramos-Park, this romantic comedy film is directed by Shawn Seet featuring an ensemble cast led by Hu. Other notable roles are portrayed by Ilai Swindells and Desmond Chiam.
The storyline revolves around a woman who, guided by a fortune teller, anticipates meeting her soulmate within the next five dates. The film delves into themes of Chinese culture and family dynamics, offering a lighthearted exploration of love and destiny.
This is Me... Now - American Musical Film - February 16
Inspired by Jennifer Lopez's inaugural studio album, 'This is Me... Now,' this film is set to coincide with the album's release. A narrative-driven, intimate, and reflective production, the movie offers a sensational, funny, and fantastical musical and visual reimagining of Lopez's widely scrutinized love life.
Helmed by Dave Meyers and co-written by Lopez and Matt Walton, the film boasts a star-studded cast, including Sofia Vergara, Ben Affleck, and Trevor Noah.
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