cinema
English Language Netflix Originals Coming in October 2023
Netflix continues to be a global entertainment powerhouse for audiences worldwide with its original programming and vast selection of movies and TV shows. Every month the platform captivates viewers with a diverse range of original contents. From thought-provoking documentaries to thrilling crime dramas and captivating comedies, there's a wide array of entertainment waiting to be discovered on the streaming platform. Let’s take a look into October’s Netflix English Original contents.
English Netflix Originals Releasing in October 2023
Everything Now
Everything Now," is an upcoming British limited series set to debut on Netflix on October 5, 2023. Developed and written by Ripley Parker, with direction by Alyssa McClelland and other notable directors, the series follows Mia Polanco, a 17-year-old recovering from anorexia who embarks on a bucket list adventure to catch up with the experiences she missed during her illness.
The show aims to shed light on mental health issues, particularly surrounding food and body image, among British teenagers. The cast includes Sophie Wilde, Vivienne Acheampong, Stephen Fry, and more, making it a highly anticipated exploration of recovery and self-discovery.
Read more: First-ever Bangla-dubbed Thai movie ‘Bad Genius’ to be released on Bongo tomorrow
Reptile
Reptile" is a gripping 2023 American crime thriller film that marks Grant Singer's remarkable directorial debut. It premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 7, 2023, and is about to land on Netflix on October 6, 2023, the movie is a tense exploration of a brutal murder mystery.
The story follows a hardened detective portrayed by Benicio del Toro as he delves into the enigmatic murder of a real estate agent. The film delves into a world where appearances are deceiving, unraveling both the case and the detective's own illusions.
The ensemble cast includes Justin Timberlake, Alicia Silverstone, Michael Pitt, and Ato Essandoh.
"Reptile" is not a sequel but a standalone cinematic experience that promises intrigue and suspense.
Read more: Top 12 South Indian Films Being Released in September 2023
The Fall of the House of Usher
The Fall of the House of Usher" is a highly anticipated gothic horror drama miniseries set to captivate audiences on Netflix starting October 12, 2023. Created and written by the talented Mike Flanagan, the series draws inspiration from Edgar Allan Poe's iconic short story, weaving a dark and mysterious tale. The narrative revolves around the CEO of a corrupt pharmaceutical company, played by Bruce Greenwood, who confronts his sinister past when his children meet gruesome and enigmatic fates.
With a stellar ensemble cast featuring Carla Gugino, Mary McDonnell, Mark Hamill, and more, this miniseries promises to deliver chilling thrills in a contemporary gothic setting. It's a standalone series, not a sequel, offering a fresh take on classic horror themes.
Fair Play
Fair Play is a 2023 American salacious thriller film marking Chloe Domont's directorial debut. The movie, which premiered at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival, explores the tumultuous journey of a young couple, played by Phoebe Dynevor and Alden Ehrenreich, whose relationship is pushed to its limits when an unexpected promotion at a ruthless hedge fund firm disrupts their lives.
With supporting roles by Eddie Marsan and Rich Sommer, the film promises to deliver a tense and passionate narrative. Set to release in limited theaters on September 29, 2023, and on Netflix on October 13, 2023, "Fair Play" delves into themes of ambition, desire, and the price of success, offering a fresh take on the erotic thriller genre. It's a standalone film, not a sequel, offering a unique and captivating story.
Read more: Chorki to bring ‘Shurongo’ with extended Director’s Cut version
The Devil on Trial
Netflix's "The Devil on Trial" is a gripping documentary that delves into the infamous "Devil Made Me Do It" case, retracing the trial of Arne Cheyenne Johnson, who attempted to prove his innocence by claiming demonic possession.
The film explores the first and only time that "demonic possession" was used as a defense in a U.S. murder trial, featuring firsthand accounts of alleged possession and a shocking murder. Directed by Christopher Holt, the documentary offers an extraordinary and chilling narrative, forcing viewers to confront their fear of the unknown. Executive producers Julia Nottingham and Sam Starbuck, along with a talented production team, bring this compelling story to life.
"The Devil on Trial" is not a sequel but a unique exploration of a historic legal case. It is set to premiere globally on Netflix on October 17, 2023 promising a thought-provoking and unsettling viewing experience.
Read more: Don 3: Bollywood’s New Don Ranveer Singh Replaces Shah Rukh Khan
Neon
Neon," a vibrant and comedic series, explores the world of reggaeton in Miami, following the journey of three friends striving to make it big in the music industry. Co-created by Shea Serrano and Max Searle, with Searle as the showrunner, the series blends larger-than-life dreams with the humorous realities of navigating the reggaeton scene.
Executive-produced by the "King of Reggaeton" himself, Daddy Yankee, the show promises an exciting cameo of the global music star.
"Neon" features an ensemble cast including Tyler Dean Flores, Emma Ferreira, Jordan Mendoza, and Courtney Taylor. All eight episodes of Season 1 are set to premiere on October 19, 2023.
Read more: Upcoming Netflix Originals in September 2023
Shah Rukh Khan starrer ‘Jawan’ makes historic debut in Bangladesh
The much-anticipated Bollywood film "Jawan" starring Shah Rukh Khan, made its debut in Bangladesh yesterday, marking a historic moment as it became the first Hindi film to simultaneously release in the country alongside its global debut.
Directed by South Indian Director Atlee Kumar, the film was released in multiplexes across the country soon after "Jawan" was cleared by the censor board yesterday afternoon.
Read : Is Jaya Ahsan making her debut in Hindi cinema?
According to Anonno Mamun, the film's distributor in Bangladesh, "Jawan" is set to captivate audiences with a staggering 237 screenings across 48 cinema halls, including all the single-screen theatres across the country today (September 8).
The anticipation among Baadshah's fans in Bangladesh surrounding the release of "Jawan" has reached a fever pitch since the initial announcement.
The film's release has sparked a festive atmosphere, with many people gathering in theatres to watch it in groups, marking a first-of-its-kind experience in the country.
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This level of enthusiasm among the audience is reminiscent of the frenzy often seen among Indian fans following the release of films featuring Bollywood's Khans. Now, it is clear that the audience in Bangladesh is also revelling in the same level of excitement and passion around the release of "Jawan".
“Pathan, another Shah Rukh Khan movie which was released earlier this year made history in Indian cinema with its remarkable earnings.
However, it did not quite resonate with the audience compared to his previous films.
However, there was a palpable sense of anticipation among fans regarding the upcoming film from Bollywood's King Khan. The optimism surrounding "Jawan" was particularly high, thanks in part to the involvement of Atlee Kumar.
Read : Telugu Film RRR: Lifetime Record Breaker and the Pride of Indian Cinema
Southern Indian directors have recently established a global reputation for their innovative storytelling on the silver screen.
Among the already star-studded cast is another southern superstar, Vijay Sethupathi, who was revealed as a surprise cast member in "Jawan".
With a budget of Rs 300 crore, this film has managed to not only meet but surpass the lofty expectations it set.
In the film, Shah Rukh Khan takes on a double role, portraying both a father and son—Vikram Rathore and Azad Rathore.
The star-studded cast of the film also included Nayanthara, Priyamani, Sanya Malhotra, Sunil Grover, and several other actors.
Additionally, Deepika Padukone made a special guest appearance, adding to the film's allure.
Shah Rukh Khan starrer ‘Jawan’ releases tonight in Bangladesh, making history
After much drama, debate, and speculation regarding the release of Shah Rukh Khan starrer "Jawan" in Bangladesh, the film is now set to be finally screened on Thursday as it has received clearance from the Censor Board.
This is the first time any Indian film has been released in Bangladesh on the same day as its global release.
According to filmmaker-distributor Anonno Mamun from Action Cut Entertainment, "Jawan" received an uncut censor certificate from the board at 12:00 pm after the board members saw the film.
Also read: Nagad offers ‘Jawan’ movie tickets on ‘Add-Money’ transactions
The importers, Action Cut Entertainment and Rongdhonu Group, have confirmed that the film will start screenings tonight. Primarily, the film is set to be screened in 41 theatres across the country, according to its overseas distributor, Yash Raj Films.
Several of Shah Rukh Khan's fans and admirers in Bangladesh have already joined forces to celebrate their fandom. "True SRKians BD" - a Facebook fan page of Shahrukh Khan in Bangladesh, has booked the "first-day first show" of the film at Blockbuster Cinemas in the capital’s Jamuna Future Park.
Another Shah Rukh Khan fan group, 'SRK Universe Bangladesh' has announced the premier show of the film for its registered fans and members at Star Cineplex, Bashundhara City branch at 6 pm on Thursday. The Facebook post of Star Cineplex Sony Square branch also indicates that they are gearing up to premier the much-hyped film as soon as possible.
Also read: ‘Hero or villain?’ Shah Rukh Khan teases with new ‘Jawan’ poster
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting granted permission for "Jawan's" import on August 27, and its screening on the same day as its global release.
Earlier, another Shah Rukh Khan film, "Pathaan" was released in Bangladesh in May and got massive responses from the fans.
However, several artists and filmmakers, namely Delwar Jahan Jhantu, expressed anger and frustration over the release of Hindi films in Bangladesh.
"Jawan" features an ensemble cast with South Indian superstar Nayantara, Bollywood's acclaimed actress Deepika Padukone, South Indian actor Vijay Sethupathi, and SRK himself in multiple characters, alongside Sania Malhotra, Priyamani, Sunil Grover, and Yogi Babu, among others.
Since its release in the early hours of Thursday, the film has been getting rave reviews from both critics and moviegoers.
First-ever Bangla-dubbed Thai movie ‘Bad Genius’ to be released on Bongo tomorrow
Bongo, Bangladesh's first OTT platform, is going to release Bangla-dubbed version of Thai heist thriller movie ‘Bad Genius’ for the first time in the country tomorrow (Friday).
The internationally acclaimed Thai movie co-written and directed by Nattawut Poonpiriya is coming to the Bongo app on September 1.
In the lead character of the movie, Lynn is a brilliant student from a lower-middle-class family and her dad is the only person in her family.
Read: Startup Bangladesh invests Tk 5cr in Bongo
Due to her talent, she obtained a scholarship to a prestigious school where students are mostly rich kids.
Lynn befriends a rich student named Grace on her first day at school. Grace asks Lynn to let her copy her answer sheet for the sake of friendship.
Initially, Lynn is against it but later she agrees. Subsequently Grace's boyfriend Pat offers money to Lynn to cheat on the exam.
Read: 'Ei Mon Tomake Dilam': Award-winning Chinese drama dubbed in Bangla on Bongo BD
However, there's a catch! It's not just Pat, his other rich friends want Lynn's help too. In return, Lynn's gonna make a fortune!
After witnessing her poor father's lifelong struggle and economic inequality in the society, she decides to commit the misdemeanors.
Having aced local exams, Lynn challenged herself to cheat in international exams! Will Lynn be able to cheat on the international exam? Is it that simple?
To know the answers, you have to see "Bad Genius" on the Bongo app with Bengali dubbing.
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Mostofa Sarwar Farooki makes acting debut in Chorki's 'Something Like an Autobiography'
Acclaimed filmmaker Mostofa Sarwar Farooki is making his acting debut with his web film "Something Like an Autobiography" as part of Chorki’s "Ministry of Love" anthology film series.
Farooki, along with his wife, actress Nusrat Imrose Tisha, will be coming together on screen for the film as their first-ever acting project, for which they have also co-written the screenplay.
Also read: No filmmaker should experience what I did: Farooki
Chorki revealed the first look of this film on its social media handles on Wednesday afternoon.
"For almost the last 25 years, I have been trying to tell different stories. Those stories have impacted our audiences more or less, and my experiments regarding acting and storytelling always continued for those stories, but the one thing I always kept myself distant from was acting."
"When I was writing this film with Tisha, we realised that we both had to act in this film. I was initially hesitant about it, but Rony (Chorki CEO) and Tisha insisted. Tisha motivated me by saying that this story could be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for me, so I moved forward," Farooki posted on Facebook regarding his acting debut on Wednesday.
Also read: Farooki’s "No Land’s Man" wins Prix du Public award in France
Farooki also revealed that the film has been selected to compete at the 28th Busan International Film Festival’s main competition section in October, along with having its world premiere at the festival.
According to Chorki, "Something Like an Autobiography" will be competing with some of Asia's most prominent filmmakers this year, including Filipino master filmmaker Brillante Mendoza, Sri Lankan powerhouse Prasanna Vithanaga, and Indonesia's Yosep Anggi Noen, among others, in the ‘Kim Jiseok competition category’ for established filmmakers from Asia.
Tisha is returning to work after motherhood with this film. "I had no idea I would be able to start working so soon," she added. "Farooki has given me the confidence to get back into shape and work, and I thank the Almighty for allowing me to work on such an emotional story, especially after the birth of our daughter Ilham," the actress remarked.
Also read: Chorki to bring ‘Shurongo’ with extended Director’s Cut version
Like every other artist, I also hold expectations regarding my works, but I have great expectations regarding this particular film, as this is our special story. This film is like our second child. Farooki is a brilliant filmmaker, and with 'Something Like an Autobiography', the audiences will get to see how good of an actor he is," Tisha said.
Chorki CEO Redoan Rony said, "This film is very special from other films, as Farooki Bhai acted for the first time in this movie. We are all looking forward to seeing him on screen. Also, this is the first Chorki Original film to go to the Busan Film Festival, which is a great matter of pride for us."
Farooki has directed two web films for Chokri’s "Ministry of Love" anthology series while overseeing the project, which is set to bring 12 new web films with 12 acclaimed filmmakers. His other film, "Last Defenders of Monogamy," stars Chanchal Chowdhury and singer Xefer in the lead roles.
Top 12 South Indian Films Being Released in September 2023
In the swiftly evolving landscape of pan-Indian cinema, a carnival of splendid narratives is set to grace screens this September. The allure of the Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Tamil film industries remains. These industries offer a diverse cinematic experience, from heartwarming tales to high-octane action. Captivating visuals are a natural feature of these films. Their popularity inevitably extends beyond regional boundaries. Let's get into the top 12 South Indian films set to release in September 2023.
12 Most Anticipated South Indian Movies for September 2023
Sapta Saagaradaache Ello – Side A / Kannada / 1 September 2023
Directed by Hemanth M Rao, this is a romantic drama starring Rakshit Shetty and Rukmini Vasanth. Charan Raj's music complements the tale of Priya and Manu, whose passionate relationship faces a hurdle when Manu is imprisoned.
Set before the pandemic, the film explores love's endurance. Penned by Gundu Shetty and Hemanth, the story unfolds in two interconnected parts. "Side A", weaves a tale of their journey, while "Side B" advances a decade later.
The movie promises an emotional and resonant narrative, highlighted by the director's dual-part vision and compelling performances.
Read more: Chorki to bring ‘Shurongo’ with extended Director’s Cut version
Kaddha Chitra / Kannada / 8 September 2023
This is a highly anticipated film starring Vijay Raghavendra, known for his intense roles. Directed by Suhas Krishna, the film delves into the shadowy world of gangsters and their nefarious activities.
Joining Raghavendra are Raghu Shivamogga and Namrata Surendranath, adding their own layer of complexity to the tale. With power-packed performances and high-octane drama, it promises to leave an indelible mark on the audience.
Produced by Sandeep H.K. and Suhas D., the movie brings together a talented team that promises a visually stunning and emotionally charged cinematic experience.
Read more: Don 3: Bollywood’s New Don Ranveer Singh Replaces Shah Rukh Khan
Tatsama Tadbhava / Kannada / 15 September 2023
It marks a significant moment in actor Meghana Raj's career, making her comeback to the silver screen. Directed by Vishal Atreya, the movie pairs Meghana with Prajwal Devraj, promising emotionally charged performances.
A seasoned police inspector embarks on a journey to uncover the truth behind a mysterious missing person case. Eventually, audiences can expect a roller-coaster of emotions and intrigue.
The film's trailer, released earlier, offers a tantalizing glimpse into the suspense and tension that await. "Tatsama Tadbhava" is set to captivate audiences with its spellbinding storytelling and powerful performances.
Read more: Upcoming Netflix Originals in September 2023
Kushi / Telugu / 1 September 2023
This upcoming romantic comedy promises a delightfully filmy approach to audiences. Directed and written by Shiva Nirvana, the film pairs Vijay Deverakonda with Samantha Ruth Prabhu.
Set against the realm of state-run telecom and corporate professionalism, the narrative explores the blossoming romance between Viplav and Aradhya. With its heartwarming story and relatable characters, "Kushi" is expected to strike a chord with viewers of all ages.
Produced by Mythri Movie Makers, the movie's release has generated anticipation for eye-soothing entertainment.
Read more: ‘Hero or villain?’ Shah Rukh Khan teases with new ‘Jawan’ poster
Skanda / Telugu / 15 September 2023
This film, directed by Boyapati Srinu, takes audiences on a thrilling ride into a world of valor and justice. With Ram Pothineni and Sree Leela in the lead roles, the movie promises performances that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Set against the backdrop of a fictional kingdom, the narrative centers around Skanda, a fearless warrior who champions the cause of the oppressed. The film is written by M. Rathnam and Boyapati, known for their ability to create engaging stories.
S.S. Thaman's musical compositions add to the experience, and Santosh Detake's cinematography captures the action and emotion. All of these leave Skanda geared up to be a blockbuster.
Produced by Srinivasaa Silver Screen and Zee Studios, the film's release has fans excited for an epic cinematic journey.
Read more: 'Ei Mon Tomake Dilam': Award-winning Chinese drama dubbed in Bangla on Bongo BD
Salaar Part 1 – Ceasefire / Telugu / 28 September 2023
Helmed by Prashanth Neel, the film holds the promise of being an adrenaline-pumping action thriller. With Prabhas in the lead role as the titular character, supported by a stellar ensemble cast, expectations are high.
The trailer has already set the stage for heart-pounding confrontations and intense drama. This inception part of Salaar is produced by Hombale Films, a name synonymous with quality and grandeur. Bhuvan Gowda's cinematography and Ravi Basrur's music are expected to enhance the storytelling.
The movie's release is eagerly awaited by fans of gripping narratives and spectacular action sequences.
Read more: Bollywood superstar Alia Bhatt makes her Hollywood debut in Netflix's 'Heart of Stone'
‘Blue Beetle’ unseats ‘Barbie’ atop box office, ending four-week reign
The DC superhero film “Blue Beetle” led weekend ticket sales with a modest $25.4 million opening, according to studio estimates Sunday, dethroning “Barbie” from the top spot after a record-setting run that left movie theaters colored pink for a month.
The “Barbie” phenomenon is far from over. Greta Gerwig’s film, which earlier this week became the highest grossing Warner Bros. release ever domestically, nearly managed to stay No. 1 again with $21.5 million in its fifth weekend. It’s up to $567.3 million in North America and an eye-popping $1.28 billion globally.
The other half of “Barbenheimer” also continues to perform remarkably well for a movie so far into its run.
Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer” took in $10.6 million in its fifth week. With a $285.2 million domestic total, “Oppenheimer” now owns the distinction of being the biggest box-office hit never to land No. 1 at the weekend box office. The previous record-holder for that unlikely stat is 2016’s “Sing,” which grossed $270.3 million in the shadow of “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” and “Hidden Figures.”
Read: Barbie: Interesting Facts to Know Before Watching the Movie
Universal Pictures’ “Oppenheimer” has done even better overseas. Its global gross stands at an estimated $717.8 million through Sunday.
“Blue Beetle,” starring Xolo Maridueña, came in on the lower side of expectations and notched one of the lower debuts for a DC Comics movie. Though earlier planned as a streaming-only release, Warner Bros. elected to put “Blue Beetle,” the first DC movie to star a Latino superhero, into theaters in the late summer, a typically quiet period at the box office.
The production price tag of about $105 million was lower for “Blue Beetle” than the average superhero film. It’s one of the last releases produced under an earlier regime at DC Studios, which James Gunn and Peter Safran took the reins of last year.
The film, directed by Ángel Manuel Soto and written by Gareth Dunnet-Alcocer, drew solid reviews – certainly better than the three previous DC releases this year (“The Flash,” “Black Adam” and “Shazam! Fury of the Gods”). “Blue Beetle” (76% fresh on Rotten Tomatoes) is the rare comic-book film to put a Hispanic cast front and center.
Read: He’s ‘just Ken’ but will the ‘Barbie’ movie change his popularity?
But it also faced some tough luck, and not just in the unexpected staying power of “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer.” Southern California was bracing Sunday for Hurricane Hilary — potentially dampening ticket sales in the region. (Los Angeles was still its top market.) And like recent releases, “Blue Beetle,” which added $18 million internationally, didn’t have its cast available to promote the movie due to the ongoing actors strike.
Universal’s raunchy R-rated canine comedy “Strays” showed even less bite. The film, with a voice cast including Will Ferrell and Jamie Foxx, landed in fifth place with $8.4 million. Comedies have generally struggled in theaters in recent years, but “Strays” had it particularly rough given that its starry cast was unavailable.
“Strays” was very narrowly bested by “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem.” The Paramount Pictures animated release earned $8.4 million in its third weekend, bringing its domestic total to $88.1 million.
Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Comscore. Final domestic figures will be released Monday.
Read: Algeria bans 'Barbie' almost a month after movie's local release
1. “Blue Beetle,” $25.4 million.
2. “Barbie,” $21.5 million.
3. “Oppenheimer,” $10.6 million.
4. “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem,” $8.4 million.
5. “Strays,” $8.3 million.
6. “Meg 2: The Trench,” $6.7 million.
7. “Talk to Me,” $3.2 million.
8. “Haunted Mansion,” $3 million.
9. “Mission: Impossible — Dead Reckoning Part One,” $2.7 million.
10. “The Last Voyage of the Demeter,” $2.5 million.
Chorki to bring ‘Shurongo’ with extended Director’s Cut version
Afran Nisho starrer debut film 'Shurongo' is coming to the popular OTT platform Chorki in a new extended director's cut version.
This new version of 'Shurongo', which has conquered the cinema halls at home and abroad, will be seen on Charki on August 24 at 8 pm, which Chorki says is going to be a new gift for the cinema audience and an additional gain for the OTT audience.
Read: Sharey Showlo is full of suspense: Mamo
‘Shurongo’ was released on the day of this year’s Eid-ul-Azha, June 29, across several cinemas and multiplexes. Popular television actor Afran Nisho made his silver screen debut with this film directed by Raihan Rafi, jointly produced by Chorki and Alpha-i Studios Ltd.
The film also features Tama Mirza, Mostafa Monwar and Shahiduzzaman Selim in the lead roles, while Nusraat Faria performed in an item number which enthralled the audiences.
Regarding the OTT release of his debut film, Afran Nisho stated, "This film is the culmination of our (the Shurongo team) hard work, creativity, and team effort, and our moviegoers truly honoured us with love and admiration by witnessing our work in the theatres. For those who couldn’t obtain the chance to see the movie, now you can watch it on Chorki.”
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Chorki CEO Redoan Rony said, “Although ‘Shurongo’ became a blockbuster and received applause from our moviegoers, a large number of Bengali-speaking viewers are yet to see the film; and they will be now able to watch the film through ‘Chorki’ with this extended version.”
Algeria bans 'Barbie' almost a month after movie's local release
The “Barbie” movie was pulled from theaters in Algeria this week almost one month after its release in the North African country.
Online news outlet 24H Algerie said Algeria's Ministry of Culture and Arts notified cinemas in Algiers, Oran and Constantine to “immediately” pull the movie.
Neither the ministry nor the Algerian Audiovisual Regulatory Authority commented on the reported directive or provided a rationale for it.
“Barbie” opened in some some Algerian cinemas last month. The film’s distributors removed the Hollywood blockbuster from their screening schedules starting this week..
The move comes after authorities in Kuwait and Lebanon banned the live action movie based on the American fashion dolls for allegedly threatening conservative values.
Some people in Algeria protested the cancellation on social media, posting their complaints along with the hashtag “#IAmBarbie.” Others denounced it as “censorship” and “bigotry."
“The ‘Barbie’ film ‘is a threat to morality,’ they say," writer Leila Belkacem posted on her Facebook page. "What morality are they talking about when the censors gorge on porn films at home? Aren’t you tired of dragging the country into your dark delusions?”
Read: He’s ‘just Ken’ but will the ‘Barbie’ movie change his popularity?
Fatima Ait Kaci, a retired teacher, told The Associated Press she had promised to take her two granddaughters, who were visiting from Canada, to see the movie. Ait Kaci said she heard what had happened to “Barbie” only when they arrived at the Riadh El Feth cinema in Algiers and discovered another film showing in the 3 p.m.-5 p.m. time slot.
Algerian authorities “don’t have the courage to take responsibility for this shameful act of censorship,” she said.
Last week, the Audiovisual Regulatory Authority announced its decision to “temporarily” suspend all programming by private TV channel Es Salam for allegedly broadcasting “in an irresponsible and unprofessional manner, a program containing scenes contrary to the precepts of Islam and the way of life of Algerian society.”
Read: Barbie: Interesting Facts to Know Before Watching the Movie
“Barbie” contains no overt sexuality or references to LGBTQ+ rights. But it seems to have drawn fire because of its sheer flamboyance and broad message of inclusion and gender equality in a region where homosexuality is widely seen as taboo.
The Warner Bros. film has grossed over $1 billion worldwide since it's release.
Read more: Barbie ‘biggest film of 2023’ in US and Canada, Warner Bros says
Don 3: Bollywood’s New Don Ranveer Singh Replaces Shah Rukh Khan
Don, the well-known anti-hero spanning two generations of Bollywood, is set to return to the production stage after an era. Created in 1978 by the renowned writer duo Javed Akhtar and Salim Khan, the character came to life through the legendary Amitabh Bachchan, famously known as Big B. Thanks to Bollywood King Shah Rukh Khan, the 2006 and 2011 installments propelled the character to soaring stardom. This time, in the upcoming film Don 3, Ranveer Singh will be taking over the reins. Let's get to know how this significant change is going to impact movie lovers.
Don 3: A New Era in the Don Franchise
On Wednesday, August 9th, the production company Excel Entertainment released the teaser for Don 3. Ranveer Singh's appearance as the new Don introduced an explosive approach to a new era in the franchise.
Excel Entertainment acquired the rights to the 1978 film titled "Don" and remade it in 2006. Following the success of the film, its sequel was released five years later. Now, after a twelve-year gap, the same producer and director are gearing up for the third installment.
Farhan Akhtar will be writing and directing the movie, produced by Ritesh Sidhwani. The film is currently in its early stages of production, with a target release date of 2025. The story has already been completed, and co-written by the director himself and Gayatri.
Read more: Upcoming Netflix Originals in September 2023
The musical trio Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy will continue to compose the film's music. The team, consisting of Shankar Mahadevan, Ehsaan Noorani, and Loy Mendonsa, is renowned for creating the iconic theme music of Don.
The most significant change will be in the casting. Just as the lead actor is changing, so is the female lead. However, the actress set to portray the character Roma has not yet been officially announced.
The 1978 version featured Zeenat Aman, while Priyanka Chopra delivered a standout performance in the remake and sequel. Although Kiara Advani has joined the Don 3 team, her role as Roma has not been confirmed yet.
The teaser has been promoted in theaters during "Gadar 2" and "OMG 2." Ranveer Singh will commence shooting for this film immediately after completing Sanjay Leela Bhansali's "Baiju Bawra". The production team is also weaving a grand plan for future Don movies in collaboration with Singh.
Read more: ‘Hero or villain?’ Shah Rukh Khan teases with new ‘Jawan’ poster
How the Role Went to Ranveer Singh from Shah Rukh Khan
During the Covid-19 pandemic, Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani engaged in several discussions with Shah Rukh Khan about the film. Unfortunately, King Khan expressed no interest in reprising this role. He has shifted his focus towards world-class commercial films. He aims to attract diverse audiences from various cultures. He intends to keep himself occupied with these types of movies, and he didn't find the Don movie aligns well with his vision.
To sustain the franchise's vitality, the team aimed to emphasize Don's evolution over time. Based on this vision, they chose to introduce a rising star. However, SRK, who recently completed "Dunki" and "Jawan," did not embrace the idea.