Weekends are like a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of daily life. This period offers a precious window for rejuvenation and self-expression. However, avoiding the pitfalls of idleness and monotony during these treasured days is pivotal. It is the time to shun procrastination and embrace creativity, ensuring these moments are not squandered in lethargy. Engaging in diverse entertaining and stimulating activities can transform weekends into an enriching experience, igniting a sense of fulfilment. 10 Creative Ways to Spend Your Weekends Reading You may immerse yourself in a captivating book during the weekend to explore new worlds, gain knowledge, and engage your mind. Reading goes beyond mere entertainment; it expands horizons, fosters empathy, and acquires knowledge.  Read more: Benefits of Reading Habit for Mind and Body Traversing the lines of a well-crafted story or delving into informative texts engages your mind in discovery and enrichment. Relaxation blends with mental stimulation as reading deepens your understanding of the world. Altogether it is a perfect choice for a fulfilling weekend activity.

As a new month is approaching, fans of South Indian movies are waiting to watch a variety of films from the Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada film industries. Like every month, in November 2023, the action, music, and drama are set to hit the screens. Now, get ready to be entranced, as this sneak peek unveils the 12 most anticipated South Indian movies releasing in November 2023. Top 12 Most Hyped South Indian Films Coming This November  Maa Oori Polimera 2 | Telugu | November 2, 2023 Maa Oori Polimera, the enigmatic thriller that enthralled audiences back in 2021, is set to return with a highly anticipated sequel. The original film was steeped in mysticism, superstitions, and a series of perplexing deaths. This second part promises to venture even deeper into the world of ancient superstitions and sorcery. This time, the story follows a police officer who delves into the connection between a string of gruesome murders in Mahabubnagar and the domain of black magic. Accompanied by an archaeologist, they set out to unravel the mysteries surrounding the village temple. Read more: After death threats, Shah Rukh to get beefed up security Key cast members, including Satyam Rajesh, Kamakshi Bhaskarla, Getup Srinu, Baladitya, Chilam Sheenu, and Ravi Vermal, reprise their roles in this sequel. Dr. Anil Viswanath, who also directed the movie, penned the screenplay and dialogues. Adding an eerie and atmospheric dimension to the storyline, the music is composed by Gnani. Cinematography is handled by Kushedar Ramesh Reddy, while Sree Vara takes on the role of the editor. The film's producer is Gowr Kriesna under Shree Krishna Creations. Aadikeshava | Telugu | November 10, 2023 Directed by debutant director Srikanth N Reddy, Aadikeshava features a musical score by G V Prakash Kumar and cinematography by Dudly. Bankrolled by Sithara Entertainments, the cinema will be brought to life on the edit table by National Award-winning editor Navin Nooli. Aadikeshava will uncover the world of Rudra, portrayed by Panja Vaisshnav Tej, as he fearlessly takes on goons at a Shiva temple. With Sreeleela in the lead female role, Joju George and Aparna Das play supporting roles. Read more: Khufiya: All eyes on Badhon Mangalavaram | Telugu | November 17, 2023 Acclaimed director Ajay Bhupathi, known for hits like 'RX 100' and 'Maha Samudram,' is ready to captivate audiences again with Mangalavaram. This highly anticipated film features the talented Payal Rajput in the lead role. What sets this film apart is its versions in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, and Hindi. Described as a rustic action thriller, the cinema offers a unique rural backdrop for the storyline. Mangalavaram boasts an ensemble cast, including Payal Rajput, Shree Tej, Chaitanya Krishna, Ajay Ghosh, and Laxman. The cinematography is done by Dasarathi Shivendra, with music composed by B. Ajanish Loknath. Editing by Madhav Kumar Gullapally ensures a seamless flow of the story. Read more: English Language Netflix Originals Coming in October 2023 Jigarthanda DoubleX | Tamil | November 10, 2023 Also known as Jigarthanda 2, this action comedy film is directed by Karthik Subbaraj. The film is produced by Kaarthekeyen Santhanam, Alankar Pandian, and S. Kathiresan. A seqel to the 2014 hit Jigarthanda, it stars Raghava Lawrence and S. J. Suryah in lead roles. The plot centers around a filmmaker who collaborates with a dreaded gangster to make a western movies. Santhosh Narayanan has contributed for the soundtrack and background score. The cinematography and editing are handled by S. Thirunavukkarasu and Shafique Mohamed Ali respectively. This film will also be released in Telugu and Hindi versions. Read more: Bongo BD to release South Indian comedy movie 'F2: Fun and Frustration' with Bengali version this week Japan | Tamil | November 12, 2023 This crime comedy-thriller film was written and directed by Raju Murugan. Produced by S. R. Prabhu under Dream Warrior Pictures, the cinema stars Karthi and Anu Emmanuel in lead roles. Apart from Tamil, this film’s dubbed versions in Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada are also scheduled for release. Japan, a notorious maestro of theft, orchestrates the heist of jewels valued at ₹200 crore from an upscale jewelry store. Thus, it set the stage for a high-stakes cat-and-mouse pursuit by the relentless police force. G. V. Prakash Kumar is the music composer, with Ravi Varman handling the cinematography and Philomin Raj taking on the editing. Read more: Top 12 Most Anticipated South Indian Films Releasing in October 2023 Dhruva Natchathiram | Tamil | November 24, 2023 Dhruva Natchathiram: Chapter One – Yuddha Kaandam is an action spy film made under the direction of Gautham Vasudev Menon. The film features Vikram, Ritu Varma, Vinayakan, R. Parthiban, Simran, and Radhika Sarathkumar in prominent roles. The movie's music is composed by Harris Jayaraj, with editing by Praveen Antony. The cinematography section was jointly looked after by Manoj Paramahamsa, Jomon T. John, and Santhana Krishnan Ravichandran. The story revolves around a New York City-based undercover operative and his team on a secret mission to find their missing team leader. Read more: Bongo BD presents heartwarming love story of two nameless tourists in "Hello Stranger"

Sound box or speakers are essential components of any audio system, whether it's for personal use or a public event. The quality of sound boxes plays a crucial role in delivering an immersive and engaging audio experience. Sound boxes made by diverse international and local brands are available in the markets of Bangladesh. However, not all sound boxes can offer high-quality sound and durability. Let's take a look at some of the top sound boxes available in Bangladesh in 2023. Things to consider when buying a Speaker or Sound Box When considering purchasing a sound box, there are a few important factors to keep in mind. Here are some things to consider before deciding: Sound Quality: It is important to choose a sound box that produces high-quality sound and delivers crisp, clear audio. Read More: Home Theater Buyer's Guide with Price Ranges in Compatibility: Ensure that the sound box is compatible with your device, whether it is a smartphone, laptop, or any other device you intend to use with it. Connectivity: Check the connectivity options available, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and wired connections such as USB and HDMI. Size and Portability: Consider the size and portability of the sound box, especially if you plan to use it on the go or in different locations. Durability: Look for a sound box that is built to last and can withstand wear and tear over time. Read More: Bluetooth Headphones Buyer Guide and Price Ranges in Bangladesh Price: Set a budget for yourself and look for a sound box that fits within your price range while also meeting your requirements. Popular Sound Boxes in Bangladesh in 2023 under different Price Ranges Sound Systems Under BDT 5000 F&D W24 Portable Bluetooth Speaker The F&D W24 Portable Bluetooth Speaker is a great choice for those who want an affordable, portable speaker with excellent sound quality. With a 1.5-inch full-range neodymium driver, this speaker offers powerful and clear sound. It has a waterproof design (IPX4 grade) and is easy to carry thanks to its slim and polygon shape.  The F&D W24 has a frequency range of 20Hz - 20kHz and a signal-to-noise ratio of >-75dB. It comes with a 4400mAh rechargeable battery and has a Bluetooth range of up to 15 meters. The price of an F&D W24 Speaker in Bangladesh starts from 2,900 BDT. Read More: New device puts music in your head - without headphones

Eid Ul Fitr, the largest festival of Muslims, is right around the corner. Like every year, television channels, OTT platforms, and production houses in Bangladesh are gearing up for week-long festivities. One of the largest parts of the entertainment bonanza of the Eid-ul-Fitr 2023 is the Bengali Eid Natoks, telefilms, and web series. This year too, Bengali dramas performed by renowned artists are lined up to entertain the viewers during the Eid holidays. Let’s have a look.  12 Bengali Dramas Coming to Eid-ul-Fitr 2023 Priyo Poribar  Like every year, the popular TV actor Apurba features in several upcoming Eid projects including Priyo Poribar.  In Priyo Poribar, Apurba plays the role of an elderly patriarch of a middle-class family. The storyline shows how a family-head deals with his growing children, and changing times. The struggle of a father to hold onto his family makes up the premise of the telefilm. Veteran actress Tarin will be seen alongside Apurba in the lead role. With the story by Mezbah Uddin Sumon, the telefilm is directed by Rubel Hasan. The telefilm will be available on Club 11 Entertainment’s official YouTube channel.  Read More: 6 Bangladeshi Movies Releasing on Eid-ul-Fitr 2023  Mon Jurey  This Eid, Jovan, and singer-turned-actress Poushi are pairing up for an upcoming comedy telefilm titled Mon Jurey.  The basic theme of the drama centers around how two love birds living in a small locality go about their day and hide their love from the family.  Mon Jure has been produced by Shahed Ali Pappu. Jakaria Showkhin and Sohel Rana Srabon wrote the story. The telefilm will be available on CMV Entertainment’s official YouTube channel.  Read More: Govt allows import of foreign films on five conditions  Shubhashini  Shubhashini is another project of Apurba this Eid ul Fitr. Keya Payel also stars in this drama. The story follows a quintessential romance between two different people who came across each other by chance.  Shubhashini has been directed by Syed Shakil with the story from Mezbah Uddin Sumon. In addition to Apurba and Keya Payel, viewers will see Dilara Zaman, Samanta Shimu, and Khalequzzaman in supporting roles.  The telefilm will be broadcasted on Maasranga TV. Read More: May 2023 New Releases: Netflix Original English Movies, Series  Irsha  Following Shubhashini, viewers will see another Apurba–Payel pair up in Irsha. This is a story of two couples constantly finding each other’s opposition. Yet the storyline will show how the couple overcame the crisis and stayed together.  Irsha is directed by Syed Shakil while the script is written by Mezbah Uddin Sumon. The telefilm will be available this Eid ul Fitr on CMV Entertainment’s official YouTube channel.  Read More: Nurul Alam Atique's 'Pyara Subash' at 45th Moscow Film Festival

If you are a movie or music enthusiast, then you know that having a great sound system can make all the difference in your entertainment experience. A home theater system is a perfect way to enjoy your favorite movies, TV shows, and music in the comfort zone of your own home. But with so many different options available, choosing the right system for your needs can be overwhelming. This article aims to provide a comprehensive buying guide along with the basics, key components, and an overview of the price ranges of home theater systems in Bangladesh. Things to Consider to Buy a Home Theater When buying a home theater system, there are several important factors to consider to make an informed decision. Here are some things to keep in mind: Size Consider the space where you plan to set up your home theater system. The size of the room will determine the size and power of the system you need. A larger room will require more power and a larger speaker system, while a smaller room may be better suited for a compact system. It's also important to consider the placement of the speakers to ensure that they are positioned correctly for optimal sound quality. Read More: Air Conditioner Brands, Buyer Guide, Models, with Price in Sound Quality Consider the audio quality of the system. A home theater system's audio quality depends on the speakers, the amplifier, and the audio source. Look for a system that can handle high-quality audio formats such as Dolby Atmos or DTS:X, and make sure that the speakers can produce a balanced and immersive sound. Video Quality Then comes the video quality of the system. If you plan to watch movies or play games on your home theater system, you will want to ensure that it can handle high-quality video formats such as 4K Ultra HD or HDR. Look for a system with a high-quality display, whether that be a TV or projector. Connectivity You should also check the connectivity options of the system. Look for a system with multiple input options, such as HDMI or Bluetooth, so you can easily connect all your devices to the system. Also, consider whether the system has Wi-Fi or Ethernet connectivity for streaming content. Read More: Walton Home Appliance & Electronics products can make your life convenient Cost Lastly, consider the overall cost of the system. A high-end home theater system can be a significant investment, but it's important to consider the value that it will provide. Determine your budget and look for a system that fits within that range while still meeting your needs and providing good-quality components. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect home theater system that meets your needs and fits within your budget. Price Range of Home theater in Bangladesh - Features with Price Top Home Theater models under TK 10000 Redmi MDZ-34-DA The Xiaomi Redmi MDZ-34-DA TV soundbar is a type of speaker that can be connected to a TV using Bluetooth or wired connectivity. It has an output power of 30W and a frequency response range of 80Hz-20KHz. The speaker has an impedance of 4ohm and accepts inputs from AUX, Bluetooth, and SPDIF interfaces. Read More: Air Purifier Price in Bangladesh: A Comprehensive Buying Guide The body of the speaker is made of ABS and metal, and it is black in color. The dimensions of the speaker are 64 x 63 x 780mm, and it weighs 1.50 kg. The packet includes the soundbar, a SPDIF cord, screws, an expansion rubber plug, an EVA foam pad, and a manual. The part number for this soundbar is MDZ-34-DA, and it comes with a 6-month warranty. The soundbar is made and assembled in China. The soundbar costs around 4,000 taka. F&D T200X 2:1 Bluetooth Soundbar The F&D T200X is a Bluetooth soundbar with a 2:1 channel system that can be connected both wirelessly and with wires. Each channel has an RMS of 17.5 watts and the subwoofer has an RMS of 35 watts, providing an output power of 70 watts. The satellite speakers have a frequency range of 135Hz-20kHz, while the subwoofer has a range of 30Hz-104Hz. The soundbar also has a memory card slot that can support SD cards and a USB port. The Bluetooth range is up to 15 meters with version 4.0. The device also features LED lighting, automatic multi-color LED on the subwoofer, and a bright white LED display. The soundbar is sleek and can fit discreetly under flat-panel TVs. Read More: Best Vacuum Floor Cleaner under Tk10000 in Bangladesh The subwoofer and satellite speakers can be used separately or combined to form a soundbar. The device also has crystal clear sound and heart-thumping bass, an uninterrupted digital FM with up to 100 station storage, and a plug-and-play USB/SD card reader. The device comes with a one-year warranty, with no warranty for the remote. It will cost you around 9,000 taka. Top Home Theater models under TK 20000 F&D F5060X The F&D F5060X is a Bluetooth-enabled multimedia home theater system with a 5:1 channel configuration. It has an output power of 135 watts, with each of the five channels providing 15 watts of RMS power and the subwoofer providing 60 watts of RMS power. The frequency response range is between 60Hz-20KHz for the satellites and 25Hz-85Hz for the subwoofer, and it has a signal-to-noise ratio of 73dB. The system is equipped with multicolored LED themes, PLL FM storage, and a 2-way acoustic design, and it features a sleek matte finish with a minimalistic yet elegant design. Additionally, the F&D F5060X comes with a full-function remote control and an app for multi-functional control. The system also includes a 1-year warranty. Read More: Microwave Oven price in Bangladesh with Buying Tips Philips B5305 2.1 Channel Soundbar The Philips B5305 Soundbar System boasts a Wireless Subwoofer that enhances the audio experience. It has two Full-range drivers (15W x 2), Bluetooth, and an array of inputs including 3.5mm audio, optical, Aux-In, Bluetooth, Optical, and HDMI (ARC), which can be conveniently controlled with your TV remote. Our evaluation revealed that the Philips B5305 performed remarkably well, particularly for video playback. The LED indicates the audio mode; white for Music, green for Movies, and red for News. The Philips B5305 Soundbar Speaker has an attractive design and durable build quality, providing reliable and optimized performance for movies and games. However, it does not come with a parts warranty. The latest price of the Philips B5305 2.1 Channel Soundbar Speaker in Bangladesh is 20,000 taka. Top Home Theater models around TK 30000 JBL Bar 2.1 Soundbar The JBL Bar 2.1 Soundbar has a more streamlined appearance, featuring Dolby Digital and JBL Surround Sound. The audio performance for your movies and music is great with its 300W power output, and JBL Surround Sound brings your movies to life without the need for extra wires or speakers. Read More: Projector Buyer Guide and Price Ranges in Bangladesh It comes with a 6.5" (165mm) wireless subwoofer, which provides rich and deep bass and flexible placement. Bluetooth 4.2 powers it, enabling you to stream all of your favorite music wirelessly from any mobile device. You can connect your devices with HDMI IN/ 1 HDMI out (ARC) and make your home entertainment setup simpler. This JBL soundbar works with several of the latest TV remote controls, so you can use your current TV remote control for both your TV and soundbar. With a frequency response range of 40Hz to 20KHz and a maximum SPL of 99db, you can enjoy a broad range of audio performance. It offers various input options, including 1 Analog, 1 Optical, Bluetooth, and USB audio. There is no warranty provided with it. The present price of a JBL Bar 2.1 Soundbar with a Subwoofer in Bangladesh is 32,000 taka. Sony HT-S350 is a 2.1ch Soundbar The Sony HT-S350 is a 2.1ch Soundbar that boasts a powerful wireless subwoofer and a total output of 320W, making it an excellent choice for anyone who wants to enhance their home theater experience. Thanks to the S-Force PRO Front Surround technology, you can enjoy cinematic sound without the need for additional rear speakers. Read More: Power Bank Buyer guide with Price Ranges in Bangladesh The soundbar also features a 16 cm speaker unit and a 28-liter volume that delivers a deeper, richer bass sound, perfect for enjoying your favorite music tracks and dramatic action scenes. It's effortless to set up and can be connected to your TV via HDMI ARC with a single cable. If your TV isn't compatible with HDMI, you can connect via the optical input. Plus, with Bluetooth v5.0 connectivity, you can easily stream all your favorite music wirelessly from your smartphone or tablet. The Sony HT-S350 comes without any warranty, and it's priced at 31,500 taka. Samsung HW-Q60T 5.1ch Soundbar The Samsung HW-Q60T 5.1 Ch Bluetooth Soundbar offers a more powerful audio experience with clear tones. Samsung's Acoustic Beam technology delivers sound that appears to be precisely where the action is taking place on screen, providing an immersive viewing experience. With Q-Symphony technology, the soundbar syncs with Samsung TVs to create a harmonious sound. Read More: Gaming PC Buyer guide & Price Ranges in Bangladesh It also supports HDR 10+ content for an even more impactful audio experience. The soundbar can be controlled with a Samsung TV remote and can also be connected to a Samsung TV via Bluetooth for easy access to your favorite content. The Samsung HW-Q60T 5.1ch Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer comes with a 1-year service warranty and is priced at 33,500 Taka. Conclusion Choosing the right home theater system is quite confusing. Our discussion has covered how to buy a home theater. We have also discussed some popular home theater systems under various price ranges in Bangladesh. Take your time to do your research and make an informed decision that fits your needs and budget. Investing in a home theater system can enhance your movie and music experience in the comfort of your own home. Read More: WiFi Wireless Router Buyer Guide with Price Ranges in

New movies like “Plane” and “House Party” were no match for “Avatar: The Way of Water” and the killer doll horror “M3GAN” at the box office this weekend. The two holdovers topped the charts again according to studio estimates Sunday. In first place for the fifth weekend in a row was James Cameron’s “Avatar” sequel, which added an estimated $31.1 million through Sunday. That total will likely balloon to $38.5 million by the end of Monday’s Martin Luther King holiday. As of Sunday, the film's domestic total now rests at $562.9 million (the 13th biggest of all time) and its global total is $1.89 billion. “Avatar 2” needs to pass $1.92 billion to trump “Spider-Man: No Way Home,” which is currently the sixth highest grossing film of all time globally. “There were such huge expectations and a lot of naysayers that opening weekend,” said Paul Dergarabedian, the senior media analyst for Comscore. “But ‘Avatar,’ for a James Cameron movie, is moving at lightning speed up the domestic and global box office chart. I think he always knew this would be a $2 billion movie." Second place went to Universal and Blumhouse’s “M3GAN” which in its second weekend in theaters added $17.9 million through Sunday and an estimated $21.2 million including Monday. The modestly budgeted thriller that cost a reported $12 million to produce has made $59.8 million in North America. Read more: 10 Most Anticipated Movies of 2023: Unleash the Craze of Movie Mania Horror movies typically have very steep second weekend drop offs in ticket sales, but “M3GAN” only fell 41%. Dergarabedian said that’s almost unheard of for a horror picture and shows “world class staying power.” Universal also claimed the third place spot, with “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish,” which audiences continued to seek out in theaters even though it’s currently available to rent at home. The family-friendly animated film added $13.4 million in its fourth weekend, bringing its domestic total to $110.3 million. “A Man Called Otto,” from Columbia Pictures, expanded to 3,802 theaters this weekend, adding $12.7 million through Sunday, and $15 million including Monday, to take fourth place. Directed by Marc Forster, the adaptation of “A Man Called Ove” starring Tom Hanks is proving to be something of a rarity in the theatrical marketplace as an adult-targeted drama that is doing well. The Gerard Butler action pic “Plane,” a Lionsgate acquisition for release in North America, rounded out the top five with a better-than-expected $10 million in its first three days. In the film, Butler plays a pilot whose crash landing on an island is only the first of his troubles. On the island, most of the passengers are taken hostage. “Plane” got better-than-average reviews with 75% positive from critics on Rotten Tomatoes. Sixth place went to the second major new offering this weekend, “House Party,” a reboot of Reginald Hudlin’s 1990 hit that spawned several spinoffs. The film, which made $3.9 million through Sunday from 1,400 locations, was originally intended as a straight-to-HBO Max property but Warner Bros. pivoted to a theatrical release as a gesture to audiences and exhibitors hungry for new films. The R-rated, youth-oriented comedy did not score well with critics. Overall, the three-day box office total is going to net out around $100 million, which is not quite at pre-pandemic levels, but still up some 44% from the same weekend last year. "January is not going to be the slow month we thought. It’s a great combination of films out there that's not just dominated by ‘Avatar: The Way of Water,’" Dergarabedian said. “Theaters need movies and the studios are supplying those.” Read more: 2022 Highest Grossing Movies Worldwide Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Comscore, with Wednesday through Sunday in parentheses. Final domestic figures will be released Monday. 1. “Avatar: The Way of Water,” $31.1 million. 2. “M3GAN,” $17.9 million. 3. “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish,” $13.4 million. 4. “A Man Called Otto,” $12.7 million. 5. “Plane,” $10 million. 6. “House Party,” $3.9 million. 7. “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” $2.2 million. 8. “The Whale,” $1.5 million. 9. “I Wanna Dance With Somebody,” $1.2 million. 10. “Waltair Veeraya,” 905,000.

SS Rajamouli’s South Indian blockbuster ‘RRR’ won the best original song for ‘Naatu Naatu’ at the Golden Globes. The film, which earned over Rs 1,200 crore globally, was also nominated for the Best Non-English Language Film. ‘Argentina, 1985’ from Argentina won in that category, reports NDTV. Read more: Telugu Film RRR: Lifetime Record Breaker and the Pride of Indian Cinema ‘RRR’ director and stars – Rajamouli, Jr NTR and Ram Charan – represented the film at the Golden Globe Awards. Jr NTR and Ram Charan play freedom fighters Komaram Bheem and Alluri Seetharamaraju in the period drama, set in British India during the 1920s. The ensemble cast also includes Alia Bhatt and Ajay Devgn as well as British actors Ray Stevenson, Alison Doody and Olivia Morris. Read more: 10 Best South Indian Movies Releasing in December 2022 ‘RRR’ has already won international honours including Best Director for Rajamouli at the New York Film Critics Circle awards. Comedian Jerrod Carmichael hosted the 80th Golden Globes from the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California, with little of the fanfare that usually opens such ceremonies.

The Blumhouse evil-doll horror film “M3gan” got off to a killer start, debuting with $30.2 million in ticket sales, according to studio estimates, while “Avatar: The Way of Water” continued its box-office reign in the top spot. Universal Pictures’ “M3gan,” about a robot companion built for a young girl after her parents are killed in a car accident, rode strong buzz and viral dancing memes to an above-expectations debut. In the low-budget slasher, starring Allison Williams, Blumhouse and producer James Wan crafted Hollywood’s first hit of the new year, likely spawning a new high-concept horror franchise. Audiences gave the PG-13 film a “B” CinemaScore — though reviews (94% fresh on Rotten Tomatoes) were stronger for the modern, techy twist on a “Child’s Play”-like thriller. It added $10 million internationally. But while “M3gan” drew audiences largely in 2D showings, large-format screens continued to be soaked up by James Cameron’s “Avatar: The Way of Water.” The 3-D three-hour sequel remained No. 1 for the fourth straight week in U.S. and Canadian theaters with $45 million in sales. Cameron’s sci-fi spectacle has now surpassed $500 million domestically and $1.7 billion globally. After dominating the otherwise lackluster holiday corridor, the “Avatar” sequel is nearly matching the original’s pace; the 2009 “Avatar” scored $50.3 million in its fourth weekend. “The Way of Water” already ranks as the seventh highest grossing film ever, not accounting for inflation — a total particularly owed to its strong overseas performance. The film’s $1.2 billion in international ticket sales exceeds that of any film released since the start of the pandemic. “M3gan” was the only new film in wide release, though Sony Pictures’ “A Man Called Otto,” starring Tom Hanks, played in 637 theaters after first launching in four theaters. The film, a remake of the Swedish film “A Man Called Ove,” managed a solid $4.2 million ahead of its nationwide release on Friday. Third place went to “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish,” with $13.1 million in its third week of release. The animated Universal Pictures sequel has tallied $87.7 million in three weeks, plus $109.7 million internationally. While many awards contenders have struggled in recent months at the box office, Darren Aronofsky’s “The Whale” is proving a modest exception. The A24 indie starring Brendan Fraser ranked seventh in its fifth week of release with $1.5 million and a cumulative total of $8.6 million — a good return for a film that cost an estimated $3 million to make. Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Comscore. Final domestic figures will be released Monday. 1. “Avatar: The Way of Water,” $45 million. 2. “M3gan,” $30.2 million. 3. “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish,” $13.1 million. 4. “A Man Called Otto,” $4.2 million. 5. “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” $4 million. 6. “Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody,” $2.4 million. 7. “The Whale,” $1.5 million. 8. “Babylon,” $1.4 million. 9. “Violent Night,” $740,000. 10. “The Menu,” $713,000.  

Blockbusters like “Top Gun: Maverick,”“Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” and “Avatar: The Way of Water” and pop stars like Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift and Rihanna just got one step closer to getting Oscar nominations. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences on Wednesday announced shortlists in 10 categories for the 95th Oscars, including documentary feature, international film, makeup and hairstyling, score, original song, sound, visual effects and shorts. Alejandro González Iñárritu’s “Bardo, False Chronicle of a Handful of Truths” was along the 15 films shortlisted in the international film category, one of the most competitive. The category also includes already decorated films like “Holy Spider” (Denmark), “All Quiet on the Western Front” (Germany), “Saint Omer” (France), “Corsage” (Austria), “EO” (Poland), “Return to Seoul” (Cambodia), “Decision to Leave” (South Korea), “Close” (Belgium) and “Argentina, 1985” (Argentina). The inclusion of “Joyland” marks the first time Pakistan has ever made the shortlist. Most of the directors are first-timers on the shorlist too, with the exception being Iñárritu. India’s official submission was not S.S. Rajamouli’s popular action epic “RRR,” but rather Pan Nalin’s “Last Film Show” which made the cut becoming the first film from the country to do so in over 20 years. “RRR” could get nominations in other categories, including for the shortlisted original song “Naatu Naatu.” Jafar Panâhi was also not put forward to represent Iran, whose selection was not among the 15 and Russia did not submit a film this year. Read: Iran authorities arrest actress of Oscar-winning movie Documentaries advancing to the next stage of voting include Laura Poitras’s Venice-winning “All the Beauty and the Bloodshed,” about photographer Nan Goldin’s work and activism, Brett Morgen’s David Bowie film “Moonage Daydream,” Daniel Roher’s “Navalny,” about the Russian opposition leader, “The Janes ” about pre-Roe v. Wade activists, “All that Breathes,” “Descendant,”“Fire of Love” and “Hallelujah: Leonard Cohen, a Journey, a Song.” It is a rather diverse group of stories and filmmakers: Eight were directed by women and four by people of color. With many below-the-line categories at hand, big budget sequels like “Avatar,”“Top Gun,” and “Black Panther” were well represented in the effects and sound categories, as well as original song which included Gaga’s “Hold My Hand,” The Weeknd’s “Nothing is Lost” from “Avatar: The Way of Water” and Rihanna’s “Lift Me Up” from “Black Panther.” Also on the original song shortlist are Swift’s “Carolina” from “Where the Crawdads Sing,” Drake’s “Time” from “Amsterdam,” LCD Soundsystem’s “New Body Rhumba” from “White Noise,” Selena Gomez’s “My Mind and Me” from the documentary of the same name and Rita Wilson’s “Til You’re Home” from “A Man Called Otto.” Diane Warren also gets another shot at a competitive Oscar with “Applause” from “Tell It Like a Woman.” Doja Cat’s song from “Elvis” was not eligible. For the most part shortlists are determined by members in their respective categories, though the specifics vary from branch to branch: Some have committees, some have minimum viewing requirements. “All Quiet on the Western Front” got quite a few spots on the shortlist, including original score, makeup and hair, sound and visual effects. Read: Oscar winners cut off their hair to support Iran protests Among the visual effects selections were “Jurassic World Dominion, “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” and “Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore,” while makeup and hairstyling includes films David Cronenberg’s body horror “Crimes of the Future.” Other films advancing in makeup and hairstyling include “The Whale,” in which Brendan Fraser transforms into a 600-pound man, “Elvis, “Emancipation,” “The Batman” and the Marilyn Monroe film “Blonde.” The 15 original scores selected were winnowed for from 147 eligible and include “Women Talking” from Hildur Guðnadóttir, “The Fabelmans” from John Williams, “The Banshees of Inisherin” from Carter Burwell, “Babylon” from Justin Hurwitz, “Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio” from Alexandre Desplat and “The Woman King” from Terence Blanchard. Also in the mix are Ludwig Göransson (“Black Panther: Wakanda Forever”), Nicholas Britell (“She Said”) and Son Lux (“Everything Everywhere All At Once”). Guðnadóttir’s “Tár” score was not eligible, nor was the “Top Gun: Maverick” score, written by Hans Zimmer, Harold Faltermeyer, Lorne Balfe and Gaga. Nominations for all categories will be announced on Jan. 24. The 95th Oscars will be held on Sunday, March 12 and broadcast live on ABC.

Biplob Sarkar-directed Bangladeshi feature film ‘Agantuk’ (The Stranger) has recently been conferred as the unanimous winner of the Prasad DI award by the Film Bazaar Recommends jury in Goa, India in the Viewing Room section. The Viewing Room presents Indian and South Asian films, in-production or completed, looking for film festivals, world sales, distribution partners and also finishing funds. A total of 247 films were selected for the Viewing Room this year, out of which 30 films made it to the Film Bazaar Recommendations Section which includes 20 full-length, 2 mid-length and 8 short films.  Film Bazaar, held on November 20-24, dedicated to discovering, supporting and showcasing South Asian content is increasingly becoming a place of great interest for young filmmakers from South Asia. This event provides Film Bazaar with an opportunity to interact with renowned producers, distributors, sales agents and festival organisers from around the world. Read more: ‘Hoyto-Noyto': A satire on the times This win will allow the recipients to make a complete DI DCP and to use Qubewire to transmit the film to film festivals and exhibitors. However, due to visa complications, director Biplob Sarkar could not attend the Film Bazaar and receive the award in person. “The Prasad Lab in Hyderabad, India is a pioneer in film and video post-production for our creative industry over the years, and this is a great opportunity for us to conduct the post-production works of our film,” Biplob Sarkar told UNB.  With editing being completed, the director and producers are now preparing for other post-production works. After completing the post-production at Prasad Lab, the target is to focus on its distribution and compete in global film festivals around the world, he added. The story of Agantuk revolves around a 10-year-old boy named Kajal, living in a rural area of Bangladesh with their mother and terminally ill grandmother struggles with their gender identity.  Kajal’s father, Javed, has been absent for a long time.  One day, Javed returns home. This change in dynamics creates a rift in the family; Kohinoor doesn’t interact with Javed and Javed’s mother doesn’t recognize him. This return forces Kajal to share the bed with their grandmother.  Read more: Chanchal returns to theatre with Aranyak's 'Rarang' – 'cry to rise up' Kohinoor fears Kajal’s mental state, worrying about their cross-dressing as well as their attachment to their father. This hits a crescendo one night when Javed demands that Kajal be sent away to boarding school. ‘Agantuk’ features eminent actress Ferdousi Mazumder, alongside Sahana Rahman Sumi, Ratan Dev, Mahmud Alam, Ehan, Rafsan, Hriday, Hasimun and Nayeema Tasnim in the major roles. The film is produced by Ramya Rahim Chowdhury, Tazul Haque, Saifur Rahman Lenin and Biplob Sarkar. It received a government grant for the 2019-2020 fiscal year. In 2019, Biplob Sarkar's short documentary ‘Life Is Elsewhere’ won the Tarek Shahriar Best Independent Short Award at the 15th International Short and Independent Film Festival held in Dhaka. In 2020, another of his documentaries ‘Bismritajan’ won Exposition Young Film Talent Grant organised by Liberation War Museum. Earlier, he had worked as coordinator and faculty moderator of the film department at Pathshala South Asian Media Institute. He had also worked as chief assistant director in 'Meghmallar' and 'Chander Amavasya' directed by Zahidur Rahim Anjan.