cinema
Tere Naam look inspired by former president: Salman Khan
Actor Salman Khan has revealed that his iconic look in the 2003 film Tere Naam was inspired by none other than former Indian President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam.
Known for setting fashion trends with his hairstyles and outfits, Salman’s long hair parted down the middle in Tere Naam became one of his most memorable looks.
While appearing as the first guest on Season 3 of The Great Indian Kapil Show on Netflix, the actor shared an interesting anecdote about the inspiration behind the look,reported Hindustan Times.
Makers Of The Raja Saab Warns About "Serious Action" Over Leaked Teaser Of Prabhas's Film
(My hair in Tere Naam is inspired by Abdul Kalam sir, even Rahul Roy had the same hairstyle. I thought a small town hero would have long hair like this. The yesteryear heroes all had long hair, which inspired me.)
In Tere Naam, Salman played Radhe Mohan, a jobless rowdy youth with a strong sense of justice, a character far removed from the dignified figure of Dr. Kalam. The contrast, however, adds a unique depth to the film’s cultural legacy.
The third season of The Great Indian Kapil Show premiered on June 21 with Salman Khan as the opening episode's guest.
5 months ago
Son of Sardaar 2: Ajay Devgn’s action comedy set for July 25 release
Fans eagerly waiting for the sequel to Son of Sardaar were in for a surprise as Ajay Devgn took to social media on Thursday to announce the release date of his upcoming action comedy, Son of Sardaar 2.
“Sardaar is back!” the actor declared, sharing the poster on his X account. “The Return of the Sardaar #SOS2 in cinemas near you on 25th July,” he wrote. The poster shows Ajay sporting a turban, standing atop two army tanks, confidently twirling his moustache.
Directed by Vijay Kumar Arora, Son of Sardaar 2 features Mrunal Thakur in the lead alongside Ajay. Unlike the original 2012 film which starred Sonakshi Sinha, the sequel is reportedly starting afresh rather than continuing the earlier storyline, according to HT.
Akshay Kumar's controversy with Paresh Rawal: "Whatever is happening, is happening in front of you"
The film has been surrounded by controversy from the outset. According to Pinkvilla, actor Vijay Raaz was removed from the project due to unprofessional behaviour.
Additionally, Sanjay Dutt, who was originally cast to play Jassi opposite Ajay’s Billu, was reportedly dropped over visa issues. He has been replaced by actor Ravi Kishan.
Meanwhile, Ajay is also gearing up for the release of Maa, a film he has co-produced, starring his wife Kajol.
Directed by Vishal Furia, the film sees Kajol as a fiercely protective mother defending her daughter from mysterious forces. Maa is set to hit theatres on June 27.
Ajay was last seen in Raid 2, reprising his role as IRS officer Amay Patnaik.
5 months ago
Akshay Kumar's controversy with Paresh Rawal: "Whatever is happening, is happening in front of you"
Paresh Rawal’s abrupt departure from Hera Pheri 3 has deeply disappointed fans of the popular film series. Although viewers were eager to see him return as Baburao, Rawal had previously described the character as a “gale ka fanda” (a noose around the neck) during an interview with The Lallantop, suggesting his hesitation to reprise the role.
Meanwhile, Akshay Kumar, who is currently engaged in promoting his upcoming film Kannappa, addressed the ongoing controversy. He expressed confidence that things will eventually work out, reassuring fans that he believes everything will turn out well.
What's Happening· Akshay Kumar shared fresh insights regarding Hera Pheri 3 and the ongoing conflict with Paresh Rawal.
· In an interview with Pinkvilla, he said, “Whatever is happening is unfolding in front of everyone. I’m keeping my fingers crossed. I hope everything turns out well. It definitely will—I’m sure of it.”
The Raja Saab creative producer claims there was a negative campaign against prabhas's film
What Paresh Rawal's Public Withdrawl From Hera Pheri 3 Resulted inParesh Rawal’s departure from the project prompted Akshay Kumar’s production house, Cape of Good Cinema, to file a ₹25 crore lawsuit against him. The suit was based on Rawal initially committing to the film but later causing disruption to the project’s schedule and planning due to his abrupt exit. As the situation escalated into a legal dispute, Rawal eventually returned the signing amount he had received for Hera Pheri 3, along with interest.
Paresh Rawal On Not Wanting To Repeat Previous MistakesParesh Rawal has repeatedly stated in multiple interviews that he was dissatisfied with the way Phir Hera Pheri (2006) deviated from the original brand of humour the franchise was known for. Citing this concern, he insisted on reading the script before agreeing to be part of Hera Pheri 3.
Source: NDTV
5 months ago
The Raja Saab creative producer claims there was a negative campaign against prabhas's film
Sreenivas Kumar Naidu (SKN), the creative producer of Prabhas’s upcoming horror fantasy film The Raja Saab, claimed on Monday that a producer from the Telugu film industry had attempted to sabotage the project during its initial stages.
Speaking at the teaser launch event in Hyderabad, SKN refrained from naming the individual but alleged that a Tollywood producer ran a deliberate negative campaign against the film when shooting began.
“I know very well how a producer tried to malign the film in its early days. But just wait — that same person will soon start praising the film,” SKN said at the event.
Directed by Maruthi and produced by People Media Factory, The Raja Saab is scheduled for release on December 5. SKN expressed unwavering confidence in the project’s potential and Prabhas’s performance.
Makers Of The Raja Saab Warns About "Serious Action" Over Leaked Teaser Of Prabhas's Film
“Everyone who doubted this film will change their opinion. Audiences will get to see the ‘rebel god’ version of Prabhas they’ve been missing for the last ten years,” he added.
He also lauded Prabhas for his commitment to the film despite early criticism. “This movie became possible only because Prabhas gave it his all, ignoring the negativity,” SKN noted.
Reflecting on his own journey, SKN shared how Prabhas’s trust in him helped him stay motivated during challenging times. “I often questioned why he believed in me so much. But then I reminded myself that I didn’t come to Hyderabad to give up,” he said.
SKN also spoke about his long-standing friendship with director Maruthi, which spans over two decades. “Just like a wife understands her husband best, only a friend can truly know another friend’s potential,” he remarked.
The Raja Saab has generated significant buzz in Tollywood, especially after the recent teaser release. The film features Prabhas in a mass avatar, the kind that earned him the moniker ‘rebel star’, and fans are eagerly anticipating his return to such a role.
The film also stars Nidhhi Agerwal, Malavika Mohanan, Riddhi Kumar, and Sanjay Dutt. Last week, the teaser was leaked online, prompting the makers to issue a warning and vow strict action against those responsible for the breach.
Source: NDTV
5 months ago
‘How to Train Your Dragon’ takes off with $83.7M opening, surpassing ‘Lilo & Stitch’
The live-action remake of How to Train Your Dragon had a strong lift-off at the box office this weekend, earning an impressive $83.7 million in its North American debut, according to Comscore’s Sunday estimates.
Directed by Dean DeBlois, who returns to the franchise, the film follows the story of Hiccup (played by Mason Thames), a young Viking, and his unlikely bond with the dragon Toothless. The movie outperformed the 2019 animated installment, The Hidden World, which debuted with $55 million.
Internationally, the film brought in an additional $114.1 million, pushing its global earnings to $197.8 million.
“This is a prime example of a live-action remake fulfilling the promise of its promotional campaign,” said Paul Dergarabedian, a senior analyst at Comscore. “Summer releases like this continue to perform exceptionally well.”
The film dethroned Disney’s Lilo & Stitch, which had been No. 1 for three consecutive weekends. The hybrid live-action version of the animated classic earned another $15 million, raising its domestic total to over $386.3 million.
In third place was Materialists, a modern romantic comedy set in New York and starring Dakota Johnson, Pedro Pascal, and Chris Evans. It debuted with $12 million and centers on a savvy matchmaker entangled between a struggling actor ex and a wealthy new suitor.
Mission: Impossible — The Final Reckoning came in fourth with $10.3 million, just holding on to double digits.
Ballerina, a spinoff of the John Wick franchise starring Ana de Armas and featuring Keanu Reeves in a supporting role, earned $9.4 million to land in fifth place. Despite good reviews, it has yet to break out, though analysts suggest it could follow the slow-burn success of the original John Wick after streaming.
Other notable entries in the top 10 included:
6th: Karate Kid: Legends – $5 million
7th: Final Destination: Bloodlines – $3.9 million
8th: The Phoenician Scheme – $3 million
9th: The Life of Chuck – $2.1 million
10th: Sinners – $1.4 million, notable for still drawing audiences two months after release and while being available for home streaming
Overall, the 2025 box office is currently 23% ahead of this time last year. Dergarabedian expressed optimism for upcoming summer releases like Eilo, F1, Superman, and 28 Days Later to keep momentum strong.
Weekend Top 10 (Domestic Box Office Estimates):
How to Train Your Dragon – $83.7M
Lilo & Stitch – $15.5M
Materialists – $12M
Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning – $10.3M
Ballerina – $9.4M
Karate Kid: Legends – $5M
Final Destination: Bloodlines – $3.9M
The Phoenician Scheme – $3M
The Life of Chuck – $2.1M
Sinners – $1.4M
5 months ago
‘True Detective’ duo reunite as McConaughey eyes Mike Hammer role
Matthew McConaughey and “True Detective” creator Nic Pizzolatto are reuniting for another epic detective story, a feature film adaptation of the iconic private investigator Mike Hammer.
McConaughey is in talks to lead the Skydance film based on the bestselling crime novels by Mickey Spillane and Max Allan Collins, with Pizzolatto writing the screenplay.
According to Variety, the project marks the pair’s first major collaboration since the acclaimed first season of HBO’s “True Detective” in 2014.
Skydance has acquired the rights to the Mike Hammer franchise and is developing the adaptation as a high-profile crime thriller. The film will be produced by Skydance’s David Ellison, Dana Goldberg and Don Granger, along with Guymon Casady of Entertainment 360.
Benjamin Forkner and Ken F Levin are also producing, with Collins as executive producer and Jane Spillane as co-producer. Carin Sage will oversee the project for Skydance.
How Johnny Depp once earned $10m per minute, outshining Hollywood’s top stars
McConaughey recently returned to acting after a six-year break with “The Rivals of Amziah King”, and will next star in Apple TV+’s “The Lost Bus” alongside America Ferrera.
“I needed to write my own story, direct my own story on the page,” he said earlier this year, reflecting on his time away from the screen.
Pizzolatto, a multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominee, is known for his literary and television work, including his recent directorial debut “Easy’s Waltz” and a Netflix project in development.
Pizzolatto is represented by WME, Gillett Management, Eric Brooks of Goodman, Genow, Schenkman, Smelkinson & Christopher.
6 months ago
Makers Of The Raja Saab Warns About "Serious Action" Over Leaked Teaser Of Prabhas's Film
The teaser for Prabhas's upcoming horror-comedy The Raja Saab was originally set to release on June 16, 2025. However, several clips from the teaser have reportedly been leaked online ahead of schedule.
The makers have taken serious note of the incident and issued an official warning, vowing to take strict legal action against those involved in sharing or circulating the unauthorized footage.
How Johnny Depp once earned $10m per minute, outshining Hollywood’s top stars
What's Happening
·The teaser of the Prabhas-led horror comedy The Raja Saab was all set to release on June 16, 2025.
·Just days before its launch, some leaked stills and clips from the film have started making the rounds online.
·The makers shared a statement on their official page, addressing the same. The post read, "Strict action will be taken and handles will be suspended immediately if any leaked content from #TheRajaSaab is found. We request everyone to cooperate and stand with us in protecting the experience. Let's celebrate responsibly. Be aware."
How The Fans ReactedFans have been heartbroken by the recent development.
They reacted to the post stating, "It's the audience and the responsibility of fans to take a stand for the movie content. Let's celebrate the cinema with the best experience."
Another internet user said, "Heartbreaking to see the leakages these days. Strict action needs to be taken to save the film's significance.
Source: NDTV
6 months ago
How Johnny Depp once earned $10m per minute, outshining Hollywood’s top stars
In an industry where A-list actors command millions per film, Hollywood icon Johnny Depp once secured a deal that redefined star power—earning nearly $10 million for every minute he appeared on screen in a major blockbuster.
While actors like Tom Cruise and Dwayne Johnson continue to dominate headlines with paychecks upwards of $100 million, Depp quietly pulled off a remarkable feat over a decade ago.
In 2008, Depp signed on to play the Mad Hatter in Tim Burton’s adaptation of Alice in Wonderland. Though the role was more of a glorified cameo, his star power at the time allowed him to negotiate a staggering $68 million for the part.
In the film, which runs for 108 minutes, Depp appears for just seven. This translates to nearly $10 million per minute of screen time, making him the highest-paid actor on a per-minute basis in history—by far exceeding today’s industry standard of $1–1.5 million per minute for top-tier actors.
To put that in perspective, Tom Cruise reportedly earned between $100–120 million for Mission Impossible – The Final Reckoning, with screen time translating to about $1 million per minute.
Is Shah Rukh Khan’s Swades film inspired by a ’90s TV Serial? Here's What We Know
Robert Downey Jr is expected to earn $80 million for less than 60 minutes across two upcoming Avengers films. Even global draw Dwayne Johnson typically earns $80–100 million per movie, usually appearing on screen for over an hour.
Depp’s extraordinary paycheck wasn’t just about screen time—it was about brand value. Disney and Burton heavily featured his image in the promotional campaign, using his Mad Hatter persona on posters and merchandise to sell the film.
In 2001, back-to-back commercial failures like Blow and From Hell led many to speculate that Depp’s career was on the decline. However, he made a stunning comeback just two years later with his iconic portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow in Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, which grossed $654 million and earned him an Oscar nomination.
He followed up with hits like Finding Neverland, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and more Pirates sequels, cementing his position as a top box office draw.
By the time Alice in Wonderland came around, Depp wasn’t just a movie star—he was a billion-dollar brand.
With inputs from HT
6 months ago
Aamir Khan reflects on divorce, marriage, choosing honesty over appearance
Aamir Khan, known for being open about his personal life, recently spoke candidly with Zoom about marriage, divorce and his current relationship with Gauri Spratt, whom he publicly introduced on his 60th birthday (March 14, 2025).
Though previously married to Reena Dutta and Kiran Rao, Aamir maintains a respectful and friendly relationship with both.
In the interview, Aamir addressed public curiosity surrounding rumors of a third marriage.
Sharing his thoughts on the institution of marriage, Aamir said, "In India, marriage is very serious. When your marriage falls apart and you get divorced... people don't like that, even emotionally. I know that too, and I also believe that marriage is a very important thing and shouldn't be taken lightly. I completely agree with that. That's why I can present this matter truthfully in front of people, and I should."
In a candid conversation with Zoom, Aamir also said that he divorced because he was not happy; neither his (ex) wives. "Like with my marriage with Reena, I had to say truthfully that we can't be married anymore, same is the case with Kiran. It was a loss for all of us, even for our families. We were not happy to do this but there were some circumstances where we realised that our relationship has changed," said Aamir Khan.
Aamir also admitted that he and Kiran could have pretended to stay married for the sake of the world. But the superstar said that it didn't feel "right" to them.
"I thought I could have either lied to the world and pretended that me and Kiran were very happy together, and stayed married. And we could have stayed like that forever. Personally, we could have done whatever we wanted but stayed married for the world. But that would be a lie. And it would be unfair for the institution of marriage because then you would be devaluing marriage. That wasn't acceptable to me and Kiran," he said.
Aamir also cracked a joke on himself, saying, he is an expert at divorces. "People often divorce each other because things turn sour, they are fighting, but that didn't happen in my case because we respected each other. We did what we felt was right and we didn't hide it," he said.
"Shaadi mein main kamyab nahi hua hun, lekin divorce mein main hua hoon (I haven't been successful in marriage, but I've been successful in divorce)," said an uninhibited Aamir.
Aamir was asked about his take on the institution of marriage after two divorces. He shared, "I still have the same outlook on marriage. It's a very old institution and I have the deepest regard in my heart for it. It's a very beautiful feeling when someone discovers that they want to spend the rest of their life with this person. I would want that every person gets to experience this."
When asked about his views on marriage after two divorces, Aamir reaffirmed his belief in it. He described marriage as a deeply meaningful bond and expressed hope that everyone gets the chance to experience a love strong enough to build a life around.
Aamir married Reena Dutta at age 21 in 1986; they divorced in 2002 and have two children, Ira and Junaid.
His second marriage to Kiran Rao began in 2005 and ended in 2021. They share a son, Azad.
Despite the divorces, Aamir and his family presented a united, modern image at Ira’s wedding, reflecting a blended family dynamic grounded in mutual respect.
Source: NDTV
6 months ago
June 2025 South Indian Film Slate: Top 12 Pan-Indian Releases
With South Indian films driving the big-screen excitement, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada cinema continue to raise the standard. The most anticipated releases in several genres, like thriller, fantasy, comedy, horror, action, and drama, are scheduled for this June. Fans are already going crazy over the teasers' and trailers' explosive dialogues and intense visuals. Let’s dive into the South Indian movie lineup for June 2025.
12 Most-Hyped South Indian Movies Debuting This June
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Hari Hara Veera Mallu: Part 1 | Telugu Historical Action | June 12, 2025
Featuring Pawan Kalyan in the titular role, this historical movie showcases the directing prowess of A. M. Jyothi Krishna and Krish Jagarlamudi. Jointly with Sai Madhav Burra, Jagarlamudi also oversees the screenplay.
Chronicling the saga of the legendary outlaw Veera Mallu, this 17th-century tale unfolds in the Mughal Empire, where he is tasked with stealing the Koh-i-Noor diamond from imperial hands.
Bobby Deol, Nidhhi Agerwal, Nora Fatehi, and Nargis Fakhri play the pivotal roles.
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Scored by Oscar-winning music director M. M. Keeravani, this adventure film makes its way to theatres courtesy of Mega Surya Production.
Kuberaa | Telugu Thriller | June 20, 2025
This social thriller is brought to fruition by the director Sekhar Kammula, who also wrote it with Chaithanya Pingali. Bankrolled by Kammula, Puskur Rammohan Rao, and Suniel Narang, the cinematic venture is simultaneously shot in Hindi, Telugu, and Tamil.
‘Kuberaa’ stars Dhanush, Rashmika Mandanna, Nagarjuna, Dalip Tahil, Jim Sarbh, and Sayaji Shinde.
Read more: Housefull 5 Review: Akshay Kumar’s Comedy Thriller Hits Box Office Milestone
Framed around a gritty journey through crime and consequence, the narrative follows a beggar’s transformation driven by greed and ambition. Meanwhile, it culminates in a search for his redemption.
Kannappa | Telugu Fantasy | June 27, 2025
Helmed by Mukesh Kumar Singh, this fantasy film flourishes with Vishnu Manchu as its writer.
Rooted in the ancient legend of Kannappa, the tale follows an atheist hunter’s unwavering devotion to Lord Shiva, climaxing in an act of self-sacrifice.
Besides producing it, Mohan Babu also portrays an important character in the movie.
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With Vishnu Manchu starring in the titular role, the cast includes Arpit Ranka, R. Sarathkumar, Kaushal Manda, Mukesh Rishi, Rahul Madhav, Madhoo, Devaraj, Brahmanandam, Raghu Babu, and Preity Mukhundhan. The film also includes a cameo by Akshay Kumar (marking his first Telugu film), Prabhas, Kajal Aggarwal, and Mohanlal.
Thug Life | Tamil Gangster Drama | June 5, 2025
Starring Kamal Haasan in the lead, this crime movie thrives under the direction of Mani Ratnam, who co-wrote the script with Haasan. This latest gangster venture marks the first collaboration between Haasan and Ratnam since their iconic 1987 film ‘Nayakan’.
The additional cast consists of Silambarasan, Abhirami, Trisha Krishnan, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Joju George, Ashok Selvan, Nassar, Pankaj Tripathi, Baburaj, Ali Fazal, and Rohit Saraf.
Anchored in a turbulent underworld dynamic, the plot sees gang leader Sakthivel raising Amaran as his own. All these issues turn into suspicion and betrayal to erupt years later in a storm of vengeance.
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A. R. Rahman’s exotic music compositions set the tone for this crime epic. Sanya Malhotra makes her special appearance in a vibrant track ‘Jinguchaa’.
The production unit is led by Raaj Kamal Films International, Madras Talkies, and Red Giant Movies.
Madras Matinee | Tamil Comedy | June 6, 2025
A seasoned sci-fi author is urged by his caretaker to explore the life of the everyman. Hesitantly, he begins Kannan’s tale, a TukTuk driver, only to uncover the quiet power within everyday struggles.
With this plot, ‘Madras Matinee’, backed by Madras Motion Pictures, boasts Karthikeyan Mani as its director and writer.
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Kaali Venkat, Roshini Haripriyan, Shelly Kishore, Sathyaraj, and Vishva assume the key cast.
Maargan | Tamil Fantasy Thriller | June 27, 2025
Starring Vijay Antony as the protagonist, this thriller flourishes with Vijay as its music composer. The movie is produced under the banner of Vijay Anthony Film Corporation.
Besides writing the script with Vishnu, Leo John Paul directs this film with Prabu Kuppuswamy. This is Leo’s first movie direction. The supporting cast members are Samuthirakani, Mahanathi Shankar, Ajay Dhishan, and Brigida Saga.
Unfolding as a gripping pursuit of justice, the account follows Dhruv’s hunt for a sadistic serial killer. In this process, he gradually realises that he is going to confront a sinister force far beyond initial suspicion.
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6 months ago