Star Cineplex is gearing up to bring two much-anticipated Hollywood films to Bangladeshi screens this Friday, November 22: the epic musical fantasy “Wicked” and the Christmas-themed action-comedy “Red One”. Directed by Jon M. Chu, “Wicked” stars Cynthia Erivo and Grammy-winning pop sensation Ariana Grande in lead roles. The supporting cast boasts a star-studded lineup, including Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, Bowen Yang, Marissa Bode, Peter Dinklage, Michelle Yeoh, and Jeff Goldblum. The film is an adaptation of the Broadway musical of the same name, which was itself inspired by Gregory Maguire’s 1995 novel. This is the first of a two-part cinematic adaptation produced by Universal Pictures and Marc Platt. The decision to split the story into two parts ensures no key plot points or songs from the stage production are excluded. “Wicked” premiered on November 3 at the State Theatre in Sydney, Australia, where it received positive reviews. Critics have praised Ariana Grande's performance, with many calling it one of the standout elements of the film. For those seeking festive cheer with an action-packed twist, “Red One” offers a fresh take on Christmas. Directed by Jake Kasdan and written by Chris Morgan, the movie features Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and “Captain America” star Chris Evans in lead roles. The plot centers on an ambitious mission to rescue Santa Claus, played by Academy Award winner J.K. Simmons, after his abduction on Christmas Eve. Johnson portrays Callum Drift, the head of North Pole security, while Evans takes on the role of Jack O'Malley, a notorious hacker turned bounty hunter. Together, they navigate a high-stakes adventure to save Christmas. The film also features Lucy Liu, Kiernan Shipka, Bonnie Hunt, Nick Kroll, Kristofer Hivju, and Wesley Kimmel in key roles. Produced by Amazon MGM Studios in collaboration with Seven Bucks Productions and Chris Morgan Productions, “Red One” has been touted as the beginning of a potential holiday franchise. Released internationally on November 15 by Warner Bros. Pictures, the film has already garnered attention for its unique premise and dynamic performances. Star Cineplex anticipates that both films will captivate Bangladeshi audiences in the coming weeks. With “Wicked” offering a sweeping musical narrative and “Red One” delivering a festive action-comedy spectacle, moviegoers are in for a treat this holiday season.  

Snakes have slithered their way into Hollywood, captivating audiences with their menacing presence and deadly allure. These reptiles have become iconic in horror and adventure films, from giant anacondas to venomous vipers. Let’s delve into the spine-chilling journey and discover the best Hollywood snake films celebrating the most thrilling snake moments on the silver screen. Greatest Movies Involving Snakes Made in Hollywood Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows | Grossing $330 Mn Part 1 (2010); $1.3 Bn Part 2 (2011) These cinematic gems comprise the two-part adaptation of J. K. Rowling’s 2007 novel, ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows’, concluding the acclaimed Harry Potter film series. Directed by David Yates, these movies chronicle Harry Potter’s quest, at Dumbledore’s behest, to locate and destroy Lord Voldemort’s Horcruxes – keys to his immortality. Daniel Radcliffe stars throughout the franchise as the titular character, alongside Emma Watson and Rupert Grint. Read more: ‘Emon Jodi Hoto’: a unique rendezvous of popular Bengali literary characters on television While snakes aren’t central to any single instalment of the franchise, an integral character named Nagini, a snake, plays a pivotal role. Its scenes are intense and suspenseful, especially knowing it is both a deadly predator and a crucial part of Voldemort's plan. The franchise’s final chapter earned acclaim, securing the Best Special Visual Effects accolade at the British Academy Film Awards. Part 1 has an IMDb rating of 7.7/10 and a Rotten Tomatoes score of 77%, while Part 2 is rated 8.1/10 on IMDb and holds a Rotten Tomatoes score of 96%. The Jungle Book | 2016 | Grossing USD 966 Million Directed and produced by Jon Favreau, this fantasy adventure film is a live-action reimagining of Disney’s beloved 1967 animated classic. Neel Sethi shines as Mowgli, the orphaned human child guided by his animal mentors. He embarks on a journey of self-discovery while navigating the perilous threats of Shere Khan. Ben Kingsley, Bill Murray, Idris Elba, Scarlett Johansson, Lupita Nyong'o, Christopher Walken, and Giancarlo Esposito lend their talents through motion capture and voice performances in the film. Read more: ‘Toofan’ storms in global ticket sales, scheduled for India release on July 5 In ‘The Jungle Book’, Kaa the python is a hypnotic and deadly predator. The fear she instils comes from her ability to manipulate and deceive Mowgli, making her a lurking, ever-present threat in the jungle apart from Shere Khan. Celebrated for its ground-breaking visual effects, this movie garnered prestigious awards at the Academy Awards, British Academy Film Awards, and Critics' Choice Awards. The film has an IMDb rating of 7.4/10 and a Rotten Tomatoes score of 94%. Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark | 1981 | Grossing USD 354 Million This famous action-adventure movie stars Harrison Ford stars as Indiana Jones, an intrepid archaeologist. The U.S. government enlists him to locate the Ark of the Covenant before the Nazis harness its formidable powers.  Apart from Ford, the action-adventure movie, directed by Steven Spielberg, stars Paul Freeman, Karen Allen, Ronald Lacey, Denholm Elliott, and John Rhys-Davies. Read more: Top 12 South Indian Films Releasing in July 2024 Although not a snake-focused film, the unforgettable scene of Indiana Jones and Marion sealed into the snake-infested Well of Souls remains one of cinema's most iconic snake moments. The legendary film earned five Academy Awards, including Best Visual Effects. The movie boasts an IMDb rating of 8.4/10 and a Rotten Tomatoes score of 93%. Beowulf | 2007 | Grossing USD 196.4 Million  Bringing the Old English epic poem Beowulf to life, Robert Zemeckis produced and directed this animated fantasy film. The action film features the voices of popular actors like Anthony Hopkins, Angelina Jolie, Ray Winstone, Brendan Gleeson, Robin Wright Penn, John Malkovich, Crispin Glover, and Alison Lohman. The movie delves into the legendary exploits of Beowulf, a renowned monster hunter who ventures to Denmark to confront a terrifying beast. However, his journey takes an unexpected turn, plunging him into a shocking experience unlike any he has ever faced before. Read more: Top 10 Bollywood Movies to Watch in July 2024: Thrillers, Dramas, and Comedies Unveiled While not entirely focused on snakes, ‘Beowulf’ includes a terrifying depiction of the monster, which has serpent-like qualities. However, the main twist awaits the audience in the end, weaving a sense of epic horror more than any snake movie. Anaconda | 1997 | Grossing USD 136.8 Million Directed by Luis Llosa, this adventure horror film features an ensemble cast including Jennifer Lopez, Jon Voight, Ice Cube, Owen Wilson, Eric Stoltz, and Jonathan Hyde. The movie follows a documentary crew in the Amazon rainforest led by a skilled snake hunter in pursuit of a colossal, mythical green anaconda. The suspenseful atmosphere, combined with the snake's sheer size and strength, creates a sense of dread. The film's use of practical effects and animatronics makes the snake appear more realistic and menacing, heightening the horror. Read more: Star Cineplex to premiere 'A Quiet Place: Day One' on June 28

Hollywood icon Will Smith recently shared his profound appreciation for the Quran, describing the Muslim holy book as “crystal clear” and lauding its simplicity.  In a conversation reported by Al Arabiya, Smith recounted his experience of reading the Quran last Ramadan. “I loved the simplicity; the Quran is so clear; it is crystal clear. It is hard to walk away with misunderstanding,” Smith remarked.  He was moved by the spirit of the Quran, which he found to be “so beautiful and clear.” Read more: Reasons Why Ramadan Fasting is More Beneficial Than Dieting Delving deeper into his spiritual journey, Smith revealed that he has explored the holy texts of Judaism and Christianity as well. He expressed amazement at the deep connections between the Quran, Torah, and Bible.  “I was surprised how it is like one story, from the Torah through the Bible and into the Quran. I never totally understood Abraham as the father and then the split with Isaac and Ishmail and it was beautiful to get the completion of that comprehension,” he shared. Smith, who is currently visiting Saudi Arabia, also opened up about his affinity for the Middle Eastern country and its culture during a podcast with MBC.  With a touch of humor, Smith, who portrayed the Genie in the live-action movie "Aladdin," quipped: “I think I was a Genie in a past life. I am so at home; I love it here.”  Read more: 10 Best Free Apps for Ramadan on Android and iOS

As we usher in 2024, the cinematic landscape is abuzz with excitement. Hollywood is set to release a diverse lineup of films, offering something for everyone in January 2024. From horror to comedy, thriller to drama, these top 10 Hollywood films are not to be missed. Whether you're a fan of edge-of-your-seat suspense, heartwarming tales, or groundbreaking special effects, these January 2024 releases in theaters are sure to captivate audiences worldwide. 10 Must-see Hollywood Films Coming to Theaters in January 2024 Self Reliance | January 3, 2024 Jake Johnson's directorial debut "Self Reliance" is a comedy-thriller that is set to kick off the new year with a bang. Johnson not only directs but also stars in and writes this film, which features a stellar cast including Anna Kendrick, Mary Holland, and Christopher Lloyd. The plot revolves around a man trapped in a deadly reality game, where he discovers profound life insights. This film, which premiered at the SXSW Film Festival, is a collaboration between MRC Film, Lonely Island Classics, and Walcott Productions, and is a notable addition to the top 10 Hollywood films releasing in January 2024. Read more: January 2024 Amazon Prime Video Line-up: Must-See Shows and Movies Night Swim | January 5, 2024 Bryce McGuire's "Night Swim" marks his feature directorial debut in the supernatural horror genre. The film, a spine-chilling tale involving a family's haunted swimming pool, stars Wyatt Russell and Kerry Condon. Produced by horror maestros James Wan and Jason Blum, and set for release by Universal Pictures, "Night Swim" promises to be a compelling watch for horror aficionados among the January 2024 Hollywood movie releases. The Painter | January 5, 2024 "The Painter," directed by Kimani Ray Smith and written by Brian Buccellato, is an action thriller that adds another dimension to the January 2024 releases. The story of a young woman teaming up with a former CIA agent for an unauthorized case features a strong cast including Madison Bailey and Jon Voight, making it a compelling watch for action movie enthusiasts. He Went That Way | January 5, 2024 In the true-crime thriller genre, Jeffrey Darling's "He Went That Way" is set to make waves. Based on Conrad Hilberry's non-fiction book about Luke Karamazov and the notorious Larry Lee Ranes, this film stars Jacob Elordi and Zachary Quinto in lead roles. Read more: 10 Must-Watch Bollywood Films Releasing in January 2024 The story of an animal trainer entangled with a hitchhiker who is a serial killer adds a riveting dimension to the list of top Hollywood films releasing in January 2024. The Book of Clarence | January 12, 2024 Jeymes Samuel's "The Book of Clarence" is an epic comedy-drama featuring an ensemble cast including LaKeith Stanfield, James McAvoy, and David Oyelowo. This film, which premiered at the BFI London Film Festival, is set in 29 A.D. Jerusalem and follows the journey of Clarence, a man seeking glory by pretending to be a new Messiah. With its release by TriStar Pictures, it's a must-watch among the new Hollywood releases.

The coming year is going to redefine the cinematic experience forever. Marvel and DC are bringing an epic showdown of superhero saga worldwide. And that’s just some of the biggest attractions that include sci-fi and action as well. As the curtain rises on sequels and prequels, classic franchises eagerly await their everlasting hype. Overriding all this is the desire to see dialogues and stunts of favorite actors and sensational stars. Let’s see what the most exciting Hollywood movies of 2024 promise to offer. 10 Most Anticipated Hollywood Movies of 2024 The Fall Guy | 1st March, 2024 Directed by the seasoned David Leitch, This action comedy unfolds as an adaptation of the iconic 1980s TV series by Glen A. Larson. Scripted by Drew Pearce, this cinematic endeavor brings to life the excellence of Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt. In a collaboration between Universal, 87 North Productions, and Entertainment 360, the film navigates the story of Colt Seavers, a once-retired stuntman. Seavers is reluctantly drawn back into the industry when the lead actor of a mega-budget studio production, mysteriously disappears. However, the production was done under the direction of his former partner. Read more: Netflix Originals Dec 2023 Lineup: List of Movies, Series, and Other Shows Dune: Part Two | 15th March, 2024 Denis Villeneuve's directorial prowess takes center stage in Dune: Part Two, an epic science fiction masterpiece. A seamless continuation from its predecessor in 2021, this film serves as the second chapter in the two-part adaptation of Frank Herbert's 1965 novel. The stellar cast including Timothee Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson, Josh Brolin, and Zendaya reprising their roles. The movie is made under the banner of Legendary Pictures and distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures. The storyline of this installment of Dune centers against the backdrop of Paul Atreides' quest to unite with the Fremen people of Arrakis. As they face the daunting House Harkonnen, they get involved in political intrigue, war, and the vast landscapes of the desert planet. Read more: Something Like An Autobiography: Real Story or Just a Film? Godzilla X Kong The New Empire | 12th April, 2024 Directed by Adam Wingard, this sequel to the 2021 blockbuster Godzilla vs. Kong is a monster film that propels audiences back into the awe-inspiring MonsterVerse. This Legendary Pictures production will be distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures. The film brings together the mighty Kong and fearsome Godzilla to confront a hidden, colossal threat within the human world. Delving into the mysteries of Skull Island and beyond, the storyline ventures into the origins of Hollow Earth. Starring Dan Stevens, Rebecca Hall, Brian Tyree Henry, and Fala Chen, this cinematic spectacle is waiting to explore the ancient Titan battles that forever bind man and monster. Read more: Top 10 Highest Earning South Indian Films of All Time Rebel Moon: Part 2 | 19th April, 2024 Zack Snyder's visionary prowess takes shape in Rebel Moon, a space opera co-written by himself, Kurt Johnstad, and Shay Hatten. The movie boasts an ensemble cast including Sofia Boutella, Charlie Hunnam, Michiel Huisman, Ray Fisher, Cleopatra Coleman, Jena Malone, Ed Skrein, and Anthony Hopkins. Set against the backdrop of a distant moon threatened by a tyrannical force, this fantasy film unfolds as a tale of survival. The mysterious stranger living among the villagers emerges as their beacon of hope. As the first part, A Child of Fire, gears up for release on December 22, 2023, by Netflix, anticipation for the sequel heightens. Read more: Top 10 Highest-Earning Bangladeshi Films Deadpool 3 | 3rd May, 2024 The third installment of the Deadpool film franchise follows the success of Deadpool (2016) and Deadpool 2 (2018). This film, rooted in Marvel Comics, is a joint production of Marvel Studios and Maximum Effort. Distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures, Deadpool 3 is under the adept direction of Shawn Levy. The script is a joint effort by Paul Wernick, Rhett Reese, Zeb Wells, Levy, and Ryan Reynolds. Ryan Reynolds reprises his role as the irreverent Deadpool, joined by the likes of Hugh Jackman, Morena Baccarin, Brianna Hildebrand, and Jennifer Garner. Wolverine teams up with the "merc with a mouth," amplifying the anticipation for this superhero extravaganza. Read more: 12 Most Awaited South Indian Movies Releasing in November 2023: A Sneak Peek

Meryl Streep and her husband Don Gummer have been living separately for more than six years, reports CNN. In a statement to People on Saturday, one of Streep’s representatives said, “Don Gummer and Meryl Streep have been separated for more than 6 years, and while they will always care for each other, they have chosen lives apart.” Also read: 12 Most Awaited South Indian Movies Releasing in November 2023: A Sneak Peek The three-time Oscar winner and Gummer, a sculptor, got married in 1978. Last month marked their 45th wedding anniversary. Streep and Gummer were photographed at numerous events together over the years but largely kept their personal lives out of the press. Also read: List of English Language Netflix Originals Coming in November 2023 In 2012, Streep paid tribute to Gummer in her best actress Oscar acceptance speech for her performance in “The Iron Lady”. “First, I’m going to thank Don because when you thank your husband at the end of the speech, they play him out with the music, and I want him to know that everything I value most in our lives, you’ve given me,” Streep said at the time. Also read: Aruna Biswas’s debut film 'Ashomvob' set to release this October

After much speculation, it has been confirmed that a fan favorite character will be returning to the "Fast & Furious" franchise. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, last Thursday (June 1, 2023), revealed the news on social media that he is "one hundred percent confirming" that his character Luke Hobbs will be returning to the fray. Aslo read: The Rock announces wedding on Instagram Johnson also praised viewers for their enthusiasm and support for his unexpected appearance in "Fast X," which came out in May, reports CNN. The Rock also hinted that there would be more between Hobbs and Jason Momoa's character Dante, it said. “If you thought that ‘The Rock’ versus ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin headlining three WrestleManias was earth-shattering, well, wait until you see Dante and Hobbs collide,” he said, calling back to his days as a professional wrestler. Also read: 'Hobbs & Shaw' is No. 1 but trails 'Fast & Furious' pace While Johnson wasn’t explicitly clear on what the next “Fast” installment is, The Wrap is reporting that an untitled Hobbs movie is in the works at Universal Pictures that will be a “bridge” between “Fast X” and “Fast X: Part II,” instead of Johnson returning in a “Hobbs & Shaw” sequel film (“Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw” was a 2019 “Fast & Furious” spinoff starring Johnson and Jason Statham as Deckard Shaw) The "Black Adam" actor starred as Hobbs in 2011's "Fast Five" and went on to star in five more flicks in the franchise.

A spokesman for Robert De Niro confirmed to CNN on Tuesday (May 09, 2023) that the actor has once again become a father. The Oscar winner broke the news in an interview with ET Canada on Monday, where he was promoting his new film, coincidentally titled “About My Father”. When the topic of paternity came up during the conversation, the 79-year-old gently corrected the interviewer when she said that De Niro had six children. “Seven, actually. I just had a baby,” the actor said. Read More: Netflix Originals in English Coming in June 2023

Filming on the Western movie “Rust” could resume this week in Montana, the production copany said Wednesday, in the aftermath of the fatal shooting of a cinematographer during a rehearsal with actor Alec Baldwin on the original production in New Mexico. Baldwin will continue his involvement as an actor and coproducer, and Rust Move Productions attorney Melina Spadone said via a representative that filming will restart Thursday at the Yellowstone Film Ranch. The production company finalized a settlement last month with New Mexico workplace safety regulars over “serious” violations, agreeing to a $100,000 fine to resolve a scathing safety review that detailed unheeded complaints and misfires on set before cinematographer Halyna Hutchins was shot and killed in October 2021. Also read: Alec Baldwin to be charged with manslaughter in set shooting Plans to resume filming were outlined last year by widower Matthew Hutchins in a proposed settlement to a wrongful death lawsuit that would make him an executive producer on a rebooted “Rust.” Prosecutors in Santa Fe are pressing forward with involuntary manslaughter charges against actor Baldwin and a weapons supervisor Hannah Gutierrez-Reed. Baldwin and Gutierrez-Reed have pleaded not guilty. Baldwin was pointing a pistol at Hutchins during a rehearsal when the gun when off, killing Hutchins and wounding director Joel Souza. Baldwin has said the gun went off accidentally and that he did not pull the trigger. An FBI forensic report found the weapon could not have fired unless the trigger was pulled. New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham this month signed a new $360,000 allowance for prosecution of the case. Evidentiary hearings are scheduled in early May in state District Court to decide whether to proceed toward trial. Baldwin has indicated that he won't attend those hearings. Santa Fe District Attorney Mary Carmack-Altwies says her office is pursuing justice in the death of Hutchins and wants to show that no one is above the law when it comes to firearms and public safety. She says the Ukrainian-born cinematographer’s death was tragic and preventable. “Rust” safety coordinator and assistant director David Halls pleaded no contest in March to a conviction for unsafe handling of a firearm and a suspended sentence of six months of probation. Souza, the director, has said he'll return to the “Rust” production to honor the legacy of Halyna Hutchins. Parts of a documentary about Hutchins' life will be filmed simultaneously with “Rust.”

Indian actor Priyanka Chopra Jonas has said that Bollywood’s everlasting “obsession with fair skin” was one of the reasons she left the industry to try her luck in Hollywood eight years ago. Priyanka, also a former Miss World, was at the height of her success in India’s Bollywood when she unexpectedly declared her decision to relocate to the United States, reports The Guardian. The actress had previously declined to clarify her reasons for leaving Bollywood, but recently told Dax Shepard on the podcast “Armchair Expert” that she was “tired of the politics and certain cliques” that needed to be “grovelled” to. Priyanka described how “dark skinned” actresses, such as her, were treated in Bollywood. Read More: True story behind Rani Mukerji’s latest film “Mrs Chatterjee Vs Norway” “I was lightened up in many movies. Through makeup and then blasting lighting. There was a song which I still remember. It was called Chitti Dudh Kudi which means a girl who is as white as milk and I ain’t that but I was playing her and I was really lightened up in the movie,” she was quoted as saying. Priyanka Chopra said that fair-skinned actresses had a higher chance of getting picked for lead roles and succeeding, and that even a celebrity like her suffered prejudice. “If you were darker – I’m not even that dark – for darker girls it was: ‘Let’s lighten you up’.” Priyanka, who is married to American musician and actor Nick Jonas, expressed guilt for appearing in an early advertisement for a fairness cream, said the Guardian report. She now believes that such advertisements are harmful to the self-esteem of Indians with dark complexion. She said she then agreed to the ad because big cosmetic companies give prominence and revenue for female celebrities. “A beauty brand is a really big part of an actress’s trajectory,” she said. Read More: Oscars 2023: Vogue misidentifies Deepika Padukone as Camila Alves Moving to Hollywood is risky for Indian actors, but Priyanka has had success – appearing in US TV shows such as “Quantico” and starring in the film “The White Tiger”. Priyanka has maintained a large fan base in India, and her comments have gained widespread attention. They are unlikely to alter much, either in the Bollywood film industry or in wider society, where light skin is still regarded as more attractive, the report said.