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The sudden exit of actor Akshaye Khanna from Drishyam 3 has sparked industry-wide discussion, with director Abhishek Pathak revealing the reasons behind the decision and sending a message to the Dhurandhar star. In an interview with ETimes, Pathak said, “People around him suggested he should now focus on projects that revolve entirely around him. I wish him all the best and would say—try doing a solo film now.” The director added that attempts to resolve the issue were unsuccessful, noting, “I stopped trying because he seemed to be on some other planet.” Pathak explained that Akshaye left the film five days before shooting began, despite having approved the look, costumes, and narration, and enjoying the story. A major point of disagreement was Akshaye’s insistence on wearing a wig, which the director felt was inconsistent with the film’s continuity. Currently, Akshaye Khanna is enjoying success with Dhurandhar. Pathak emphasized the collaborative nature of filmmaking, stating, “It’s a team effort—writer, director, actors, and many others contribute. It’s not about one person.” Drishyam 3 is scheduled for release on October 2, 2026.   With inputs from NDTV

Bollywood stars gathered in Mumbai on Monday for a special screening of Ikkis, the final film of legendary actor Dharmendra, who passed away on November 24 at the age of 89. The event drew actors Salman Khan, Rekha, Tabu, Jeetendra, Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Agastya Nanda, and others. The film also features newcomers Simar Bhatia and Agastya Nanda in leading roles, alongside Jaideep Ahlawat, Sikandar Kher, and Vivaan Shah. Salman Khan was seen paying an emotional tribute to Dharmendra by standing beside a poster of the late actor. Sunny Deol also appeared moved but posed for photographs with a calm smile. Bobby Deol attended with his wife Tanya, son Aryaman, and cousin Abhay Deol. Ikkis marks Dharmendra’s final on-screen appearance and tells the story of Arun, played by Agastya Nanda, the son of Dharmendra’s character Brigadier ML Khetarpal. The film is scheduled for release on January 1, 2026. The screening reflected an emotional evening for the film industry as colleagues and fans honored Dharmendra’s legacy.   With inputs from NDTV

The Malayalam film industry stood out in 2025 with notable successes such as Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra and L2: Empuraan. The Indian film industry enjoyed an exceptional year in 2025, delivering everything from grand historical spectacles to heartfelt dramas. Films across languages and genres captivated audiences both in India and internationally. While Bollywood had its share of releases, South Indian cinema emerged as a dominant force at the box office worldwide. Among all regional industries, Malayalam cinema made a strong impact with standout films like Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra and L2: Empuraan, proving once again its strength in storytelling and production quality beyond regional boundaries. Kannada, Tamil, and Telugu industries also contributed major hits that earned both commercial success and critical praise. Here’s a look at the top 10 highest-grossing South Indian films of 2025. Kantara: Chapter 1Directed by Rishab Shetty, Kantara: Chapter 1 was produced on an estimated budget of Rs 125 crore. The film became a massive blockbuster, grossing over Rs 852 crore globally. Serving as a prequel to the 2022 hit Kantara, it earned acclaim for its stunning visuals, gripping narrative, and powerful action. The story delves into the origins of the Bhuta Kola tradition and the mythology surrounding divine guardians of the land. CoolieMade on a reported budget of Rs 400 crore, Coolie starred Rajinikanth in the lead role. Although expectations were high, the film received a mixed response from audiences. Still, it managed to earn Rs 518 crore worldwide. The storyline follows a former gold smuggler driven by vengeance, with Nagarjuna, Soubin Shahir, Shruti Haasan, and Sathyaraj playing key roles. Mahavatar NarsimhaDirected by Ashwin Kumar, Mahavatar Narsimha became a landmark success, emerging as India’s highest-grossing animated film. Produced on a modest budget of Rs 40 crore, the film went on to collect Rs 326.82 crore worldwide. It narrates the mythological tale of Lord Vishnu’s Narasimha avatar and the clash between the demon king Hiranyakashipu and his devoted son Prahlada. Lokah: Chapter 1 – ChandraThis film marked a historic milestone for Malayalam cinema by becoming its first movie to surpass Rs 300 crore globally. Produced by Dulquer Salmaan and featuring Kalyani Priyadarshan, the film was made on a budget of around Rs 30 crore. The plot follows a mysterious woman who uncovers her supernatural powers after surviving a near-fatal incident involving a bat bite. They Call Him OGWith worldwide earnings of Rs 293.65 crore, They Call Him OG also achieved remarkable overseas success, including a record-breaking North American premiere. Starring Pawan Kalyan, the film spans multiple decades and locations, from 1940s Japan to 1990s Mumbai. It centers on Ojas Gambheera, aka OG, who returns after a decade to reclaim his criminal empire and protect his mentor from rival gangster Omi Bhau. L2: EmpuraanThe second chapter in the Lucifer trilogy, L2: Empuraan, starred Mohanlal alongside Prithviraj Sukumaran, Tovino Thomas, and Manju Warrier. Produced with a budget of approximately Rs 175 crore, the film earned Rs 266.81 crore worldwide. The narrative follows crime lord Khureshi Ab’raam as he re-enters Kerala amid political unrest and rising extremist forces led by antagonist Balraj. Sankrathiki VastunamReleased in January 2025, this film quickly rose to become one of the year’s biggest South Indian earners, grossing Rs 255.2 crore worldwide. Featuring Venkatesh Daggubati, Aishwarya Rajesh, and Meenakshi Chaudhary, the story revolves around a retired police officer drawn back into action to rescue a kidnapped tech tycoon, with unexpected comedic twists involving his wife and former lover. ThudarumThudarum reunited iconic actors Mohanlal and Shobana after 15 years. The film tells the story of a humble taxi driver from Pathanamthitta who shares a deep bond with his old Ambassador car. The plot takes a darker turn when the car is confiscated in a drug-related investigation. The film earned over Rs 234.5 crore globally. Good Bad UglyDirected by Adhik Ravichandran, Good Bad Ugly starred Ajith Kumar, Trisha Krishnan, and Arjun Das. Ajith portrayed a former gangster striving for a peaceful life, only to be pulled back into violence after his son is falsely accused of a crime. Made on a budget of around Rs 300 crore, the film collected Rs 248.25 crore worldwide. Su From SoThis Kannada horror-comedy emerged as an unexpected breakout hit in 2025. Set in the coastal village of Marlur, the story follows a carefree young man who pretends to be possessed by a ghost named Sulochana to escape trouble. His act spirals into chaos as villagers conduct bizarre exorcisms. The film earned Rs 122.83 crore worldwide, gaining both commercial success and critical praise.

A Minecraft Movie, based on the popular video game, has emerged as one of the most significant films of 2025 after topping the US box office and drawing large global audiences, industry analysts say. The film, which stars Jack Black, has become the highest-grossing movie of the year in the United States and ranks among the top films worldwide. Its success highlights changing patterns in cinema-going since the Covid-19 pandemic, with audiences increasingly seeking shared and interactive viewing experiences. Although reviews were mixed, the movie performed strongly from its opening weekend, attracting families, young viewers and long-time fans of the game. Many screenings featured lively audience participation, including cheering, shouting familiar lines and recording moments for social media. The film’s popularity follows a broader trend in Hollywood, where video game adaptations have become major box office draws as superhero films lose dominance. Recent successes include The Super Mario Bros Movie, Sonic the Hedgehog sequels and television series based on popular games. Cinema owners and industry experts say such interactive screenings have helped revive theatres after years of disruption caused by streaming platforms and pandemic closures. Special participation-friendly shows of A Minecraft Movie have since been officially introduced in several markets. Observers note that the film’s rapid rise to cult status reflects how social media and smartphones now shape audience behaviour, turning movie-going into a communal event rather than a quiet, individual experience. With more studios exploring similar releases, analysts expect interactive cinema events to play a growing role in the film industry’s future.   With inputs from BBC

Drishyam 3 is generating strong buzz, especially after reports that Akshaye Khanna has exited the project following the success of Dhurandhar. Amid the excitement, actor Rajat Kapoor, who reprises his role as Mahesh Deshmukh—the husband of Tabu’s character, Meera Deshmukh—has shared a humorous take on his character’s journey in the upcoming film. What he said In a recent interview with SCREEN, Kapoor was asked whether his character would be given more depth in the third installment. Responding with wit, the actor dismissed the idea of a character arc, saying there was nothing new to explore. He joked that his role simply involved standing behind Tabu, adding that nothing had changed this time either. On playing officials in films Kapoor also reflected on his frequent casting as government officials. He has previously portrayed a senior income tax officer in Ajay Devgn’s Raid 2 and a police officer in Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s Raat Akeli Hai: The Bansal Murders. Speaking candidly, he said such roles can feel limiting when they lack depth. While he emphasized that every role is about reacting to the script, he noted that generic authority figures—especially those without a strong narrative purpose—often leave actors with little to do. He contrasted this with more layered characters, like Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s role, which offered greater scope. About Drishyam 3 The Hindi Drishyam franchise, adapted from the Malayalam original starring Mohanlal, has turned Ajay Devgn’s Vijay Salgaonkar into a memorable on-screen figure—a common man who relies on intelligence and emotional resilience to protect his family. Filming for the third chapter is currently in progress at multiple locations. The original cast, including Ajay Devgn, Tabu, and Shriya Saran, is set to return, along with other prominent actors. The makers have teased heightened suspense and intense drama as the story continues. The film is presented by Star Studios and produced by Panorama Studios. It is directed by Abhishek Pathak, who has also co-written the script with Aamil Keeyan Khan and Parveez Shaikh. Producers include Alok Jain, Ajit Andhare, Kumar Mangat Pathak, and Abhishek Pathak.   source NDTV

Universal Pictures has released the first trailer of The Odyssey, director Christopher Nolan’s upcoming epic based on Homer’s classic poem, offering audiences an early look at a large-scale battle and survival saga. The film follows Greek hero Odysseus, played by Matt Damon, as he struggles to return home after the Trojan War. The trailer opens with the aftermath of the war and shows Odysseus leading his men away from Troy, hoping to reunite with their families. The preview highlights a long and dangerous journey across seas and unfamiliar lands. Odysseus is seen sailing through violent storms, crossing harsh terrain and surviving shipwrecks, with strong visuals focusing on endurance and survival. One sequence confirms that the fall of Troy is part of the opening chapters, showing Odysseus and his men inside the Trojan Horse. Another dark scene hints at mythical threats, suggesting encounters with monsters without revealing them fully. Family ties are also central to the story. Tom Holland appears as Telemachus, the son of Odysseus, while Anne Hathaway plays his wife, Penelope. Dialogue in the trailer is limited, with the story largely driven by visuals. The film features a large ensemble cast, including Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Charlize Theron, Robert Pattinson, Mia Goth, Benny Safdie, Jon Bernthal, John Leguizamo, Elliot Page, Himesh Patel and Corey Hawkins. Written and directed by Christopher Nolan, The Odyssey is produced by Nolan and Emma Thomas and backed by Universal. The film was shot entirely using IMAX’s largest format and is scheduled for worldwide release on July 17, 2026.   With inputs from NDTV

Marvel Studios has confirmed the return of Chris Evans as Steve Rogers in the Marvel Cinematic Universe with the release of the first teaser for Avengers: Doomsday, ending days of speculation sparked by leaked footage. The teaser takes a reflective tone, showing Steve Rogers riding his motorcycle home as a soft piano version of the Avengers theme plays. Instead of action-heavy scenes, the preview focuses on memory and nostalgia, with Rogers seen unpacking his old Captain America suit, suggesting a past life he once left behind. One of the most notable moments in the teaser features Rogers holding a newborn baby, reinforcing the idea that he chose a different life after the events of Avengers: Endgame. The teaser ends with a clear confirmation of his return in Avengers: Doomsday. Steve Rogers was last seen stepping away from the role of Captain America after passing the shield to Sam Wilson and choosing to remain in the past with Peggy Carter. His reappearance signals a new chapter in the MCU, challenging the sense of finality surrounding his earlier departure. Marvel has indicated that Doctor Doom will be the main antagonist, with the storyline expected to span multiple timelines and universes. The film will also feature several familiar MCU characters, including Chris Hemsworth. Avengers: Doomsday is scheduled for global release on December 18, 2026.   With inputs from NDTV

Filming of Tom Holland starrer Spider-Man: Brand New Day has officially wrapped up, with the film set for a theatrical release on July 31, 2026. Director Destin Daniel Cretton shared the update on Instagram on Saturday, thanking the cast and crew and describing the project as one of the most rewarding experiences of his career. He praised the team’s dedication, creativity and hard work throughout production. Cretton also commended Tom Holland for his leadership, commitment and performances, both on and off screen, calling the completion of filming a significant milestone for the project. Alongside Holland, the film features Mark Ruffalo reprising his role as Bruce Banner, also known as the Hulk, Michael Mando returning as Scorpion, and Jon Bernthal joining the cast as the Punisher. Sadie Sink is also part of the ensemble in an undisclosed role, while Zendaya and Jacob Batalon return as MJ and Ned.   With inputs from NDTV

Hollywood actor and former professional wrestler Dwayne Johnson has dedicated his latest film, The Smashing Machine, to the memory of 15 friends he lost to addiction and suicide over the past two decades. In an interview with Variety, the 53-year-old actor said the biopic, which portrays the life of legendary UFC fighter Mark Kerr, reflects not only Kerr’s journey but also the struggles of countless people battling mental health issues. “In a way, The Smashing Machine is a love letter to the men and women who struggle, who have made it on the other side, and who didn’t,” Johnson said. Johnson, who has been open about his own battles with depression, revealed that losing friends over the years deeply influenced the project. “Over the past two decades, I lost exactly 15 friends to addiction and suicide, who just couldn’t handle the pressure,” he added. The actor also recalled his personal experiences with mental health challenges, including suffering from depression at the age of 23 after failing to qualify for professional football, and witnessing his mother attempt suicide when he was 15. He stressed the importance of support, encouraging people to talk openly about their struggles and reminding them that they are not alone. Johnson has previously spoken about helping those facing depression. In 2018, he advised on social media to support loved ones by listening and guiding them through difficult times. “Everybody is fighting demons, and a lot of people keep it in. A lot of people don’t talk about it,” he said, reflecting on lessons learned over the years. The Smashing Machine is set to reach audiences worldwide while Johnson continues to work on upcoming projects, including the live-action Moana, an untitled Jumanji sequel, and Fast X: Part 2.   With inputs from NDTV

From Disney’s Snow White to Dwayne Johnson’s The Smashing Machine, several high-profile Hollywood films failed to meet box-office expectations in 2025. Despite a number of global hits, many anticipated releases underperformed, highlighting challenges for cinemas as audiences increasingly stay home. Marvel’s Thunderbolts earned nearly $400 million worldwide, less than half of Avengers: Endgame’s 2019 total, while Captain America: Brave New World also struggled. Both films were criticised for feeling like leftover parts of the Marvel saga, unlike Fantastic Four: First Steps, which performed better. Disney’s live-action Snow White failed to recover its budget amid controversies over casting and politics. Similarly, Bong Joon Ho’s Mickey 17, delayed for months after his hit Parasite, disappointed critics and audiences. Other flops included After the Hunt starring Julia Roberts, the Christy Martin biopic Christy, teen horror revival I Know What You Did Last Summer, Bruce Springsteen drama Deliver Me from Nowhere, and Pixar’s Elio, all of which underperformed despite high expectations. Sequels and reboots like M3GAN 2.0 failed to replicate the original’s success, while The Smashing Machine starring Dwayne Johnson did not attract audiences seeking lighter entertainment. Experts suggest that a combination of misjudged timing, audience fatigue, and creative missteps contributed to these box-office failures.   With inputs from BBC