Cinema
Robert Pattinson jokes about ageing as Batman amid sequel delay
Robert Pattinson has expressed his reluctance to portray an older version of Batman as the long-awaited sequel faces further delays.
The actor, who starred in Matt Reeves’ 2022 blockbuster “The Batman”, recently discussed the sequel’s status while speaking with his “Mickey 17” co-star Naomi Ackie for Hero magazine, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
When asked if he would be reprising his role soon, Pattinson joked, “I bloody hope so. I started as young Batman, and I’ll be an old Batman by the time the sequel comes out.”
The Twilight star, now 38, added, “I’m old—but healthier. I think I’ve actually reversed my biological age a little.”
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The sequel has been in development for some time, with production set to begin in late 2025. After multiple delays, it is now scheduled for release in October 2027.
While it is not part of James Gunn and Peter Safran’s restructured DC Universe, Gunn explained that the postponement was due to Reeves refining the script.
“Matt is dedicated to making the best film possible, and no one can predict how long writing will take,” Gunn stated on Threads last December. He added that once the script is finalised, major films require about two years for pre-production, filming, and post-production.
Despite disappointing some fans, Gunn defended the delay, saying, “A five-year gap or more is quite common for sequels.”
Following its 2022 release, “The Batman” was both a critical and commercial success, grossing over $772 million worldwide.
9 months ago
Rani Mukerji’s ‘Mardaani 3’ set to go on the floor in June
Bollywood star Rani Mukerji is set to return as the fearless cop Shivani Shivaji Roy in ‘Mardaani 3’, with filming expected to commence in June 2025.
Director Abhiraj Minawala has begun pre-production work, and the makers are currently conducting look tests for key characters.
The highly anticipated sequel was officially announced in August 2024, sparking excitement among fans eager to see Mukerji don the police uniform once again. According to a report by Mid-Day, the screenplay is being fine-tuned while auditions are underway to cast a powerful antagonist.
The production team is also finalising primary shooting locations, with major sequences planned for Mumbai and Delhi. Additional locations in North India are being scouted and will be confirmed in the coming weeks.
Speaking about the film’s progress, Rani Mukerji expressed her enthusiasm for the franchise. “I’m truly proud of my Mardaani franchise. It is a series that continues to inspire and resonate with audiences. The love, adulation, and respect I have received from Mardaani is truly humbling. I look forward to bringing back Shivani Shivaji Roy on the big screen. It has been a while since I have donned the cop uniform and paid tribute to the women police force of our country.”
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Mukerji had previously confirmed her involvement in Mardaani 3 in 2023, stating, “I’m excited to see how Mardaani 3 shapes up! I am crossing my fingers because I would love to play the part of Shivani once again.”
The Mardaani franchise began in 2014, with the first film receiving critical and commercial acclaim. The sequel, released in 2019, also proved to be a box office success. Fans are now eagerly awaiting the next chapter in the action-thriller series, which continues to spotlight the challenges and triumphs of law enforcement officers in India.
With pre-production progressing steadily, Mardaani 3 is poised to deliver yet another gripping cinematic experience when it hits the big screen.
Source: Indian media
10 months ago
Tom Hardy faces his past in Netflix’s crime thriller ‘Havoc’ trailer
Netflix has released the trailer for ‘Havoc’, an intense crime thriller starring Tom Hardy. The film, directed and written by Gareth Evans, is set to premiere on April 25.
The star-studded cast includes Forest Whitaker, Timothy Olyphant, Justin Cornwell, Jessie Mei Li, and Luis Guzmán, reports The Hollywood Reporter.
The story follows Walker (Hardy), a weary detective who must confront his past while searching for a politician’s estranged son, who vanished after a failed drug deal. The trailer teases tense moments, including a confrontation between Hardy’s character and an authority figure played by Whitaker.
“Don’t forget, I know what you did,” Whitaker’s character warns, to which Hardy’s Walker replies, “You have no idea what I did.”
Evans not only directed but also penned the script for ‘Havoc’, with Hardy, Evans, Ed Talfan, and Aram Tertzakian producing.
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Hardy recently starred in The Bikeriders (2024) alongside Austin Butler and Jodie Comer, as well as Venom: The Last Dance, the final installment in Sony’s Venom trilogy. He is also set to appear in the Paramount+ series MobLand, produced by Guy Ritchie.
Evans, known for The Raid franchise and Netflix’s Apostle (2018), previously shared his enthusiasm for the action-packed Havoc.
In a 2020 interview, he described the project as an opportunity to channel years of pent-up energy into large-scale action sequences.
10 months ago
DC Studios faces uncertainty with Batman franchise, Penguin series
DC Studios is grappling with uncertainty over its Batman-related projects, as the future of “The Batman” sequel and “The Penguin” TV series remains unclear.
Despite previous speculation, DC Studios co-head James Gunn firmly ruled out the possibility of Robert Pattinson’s Batman joining the DC Universe (DCU), according to The Hollywood Reporter.
During a press event, Gunn responded to rumours about Pattinson's role in “The Brave and the Bold” by clarifying there had been no serious discussions about sharing the actor between projects. Gunn’s comments followed an interview with “The Batman” director Matt Reeves at January's Golden Globes, where he hinted at uncertainty over Pattinson’s involvement in the broader DCU.
The Batman (2022), which grossed an impressive $722 million, introduced Pattinson’s Bruce Wayne, but a sequel has faced multiple delays. Although “The Batman” Part II is slated for release in autumn 2027, it will be over five years since the original film's debut.
According to DC Studios co-chief Peter Safran, Reeves has yet to submit a complete script, though what has been shared so far is "incredibly encouraging."
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The sequel and the spin-off series “The Penguin”, starring Colin Farrell, exist in a separate universe from the DCU. Safran said that while work continues on “The Brave and the Bold”, which focuses on Batman and his son, Damian Wayne, the involvement of director Andy Muschietti is no longer clear.
Gunn has taken a more hands-on approach with the project, working closely with an unnamed writer on the script. As for “The Penguin”, the series' second season is far from certain.
Safran acknowledged that several factors are in play, notably Colin Farrell’s availability and the significant makeup involved in the role, which has made the series’ future unclear.
With so many moving parts, the direction of DC Studios’ Batman-related projects remains in limbo, leaving fans uncertain about what the future holds for their favourite caped crusader.
10 months ago
Aamir Khan on his dream project Mahabharata’
Renowned Bollywood actor and producer Aamir Khan has reiterated his long-held aspiration to create an epic adaptation of Mahabharata.
Speaking at the recent ABP conference, the Laal Singh Chaddha star shared his excitement about the project while also highlighting his passion for children's content.
Aamir expressed his deep desire to work on Mahabharata, stating, "It is my dream to make Mahabharata, so maybe now I'll be able to think of that dream. Let’s see if I’ll have a role in it to play."
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Beyond his dream project, the actor also emphasised the need for more children-centric content in Indian cinema. “I believe in India, we make lesser children-related content. Usually, we import that from abroad, dub it here, and release it. I want to make stories about children,” he said.
The actor-producer further elaborated on his evolving role in the industry, noting that while he prefers to focus on one acting project at a time, he intends to produce more films in the future.
“As an actor, I do one film at a time and I’m happy with it. I’m trying to do more films as a producer. Next month I’ll turn 60, and for the next 10 to 15 years, I want to do more work and give opportunities to newer talent,” Aamir shared.
Bapparaj finally finds ‘Hena’ but…
Aamir also spoke about his latest production, Laapataa Ladies, directed by Kiran Rao. The film introduced fresh talent, including Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, and Sparsh Shrivastava, reflecting Aamir’s commitment to nurturing young artists in the industry.
As the Bollywood stalwart gears up for the next phase of his career, his focus on Mahabharata and children’s storytelling signals a new chapter in his creative journey.
Source: Indian media
10 months ago
12 Most Anticipated South Indian Movies Releasing in March 2025
South Indian cinema—spanning Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada film industries—continues to captivate audiences with its larger-than-life storytelling. March 2025 is packed with highly anticipated releases across action, thriller, fantasy, romance, comedy, and horror genres. With star-studded casts and ambitious storytelling, these films are set to make a big impact at the box office. Here’s a look at the most hyped South Indian movies hitting the big screen this March.
Top 12 South Indian Movies Premiering This March
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Court - State Vs. A Nobody | Telugu Legal Drama | March 14, 2025
Produced by Wall Poster Cinema, this courtroom drama unravels the journey of a young married couple entangled in a relentless pursuit of justice. What begins as a tender love story soon escalates into a legal battle. It delves deep into the judicial system's complexities of power, morality, and emotional turmoil.
Besides writing the screenplay, Ram Jagadeesh debuts as a director with this drama. Writing credits also go to Vamsidhar Sirigiri and Karthikeya Sreenivas.
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The cast comprises Rohini, Sai Kumar, Rajasekhar Aningi, Priyadarshi Pulikonda, and Sivaji.
Hari Hara Veera Mallu | Telugu Historical Action | March 28, 2025
Subtitled Part 1 - Sword vs Spirit, this historical adventure, based on legendary outlaw Veera Mallu, stars Pawan Kalyan in the titular role.
Besides scripting with Sai Madhav Burra, Krish Jagarlamudi also directed this movie along with A. M. Jyothi Krishna.
Set against the grandeur of the 17th century, this action spectacle follows the fearless warrior, Veera Mallu. He is tasked with an audacious mission to steal the legendary Koh-i-Noor diamond from the formidable Mughal empire.
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The ensemble cast includes Nidhhi Agerwal, Bobby Deol, Nora Fatehi, Nargis Fakhri, Dalip Tahil, Jisshu Sengupta, and Vikramjeet Virk.
Crafted under the production of Mega Surya Production, this film features music by Academy Award winner M. M. Keeravani.
Robinhood | Telugu Crime Romance | March 28, 2025
Starring Nithiin and Sreeleela, this modern-day adaptation is a fresh take on the legendary tale of Robin Hood, weaving together romance, action, and humor.
Venky Kudumula’s directing and writing elevate the crime movie. It has a supporting cast of Vennela Kishore, Kyle Paul, Lal, Rajendra Prasad, Dayanand Reddy, and Keshav Deepak.
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The film goes to theaters courtesy of the production house- Mythri Movie Makers.
Aalambana | Tamil Fantasy | March 07, 2025
Directed and scripted by debutant Pari K Vijay, this fantasy comedy boasts Kotapadi J. Rajesh as producer under the banner KJR Studios with co-production of Koustubh Entertainment.
Lead cast members are Parvati Nair and Vaibhav, while the supporting cast includes Anandaraj, Munishkanth, Kabir Duhan Singh, Yogi Babu, Murali Sharma, Robo Shankar, Kaali Venkat, and Pandiarajan.
Rooted in the struggles of a kind-hearted yet destitute farmer, this fantastical tale takes an extraordinary turn when fate leads him to an ancient lamp concealing a powerful genie.
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Kingston | Tamil Horror Fantasy | March 07, 2025
This epic fantasy movie is brought to life by Zee Studios and Parallel Universe Pictures, with G. V. Prakash Kumar producing and stepping into the lead role.
Promising an unparalleled visual treat, this film blends high-seas adventure with spine-chilling horror. While its storyline remains shrouded in mystery, NewsBytes hints at an enthralling mix of treasure hunts, supernatural forces, and ancient legends.
Penned and directed by Kamal Prakash, the adventure film also excels with Divyabharathi, Chetan, Elango Kumaravel, Azhagam Perumal, Sabumon Abdusamad, and Antony as the supporting cast.
Veera Dheera Sooran: Part 2 | Tamil Thriller | March 27, 2025
Bankrolled by Riya Shibu under HR Pictures, this action movie thrives with S. U. Arun Kumar as writer and director. The prequel, Part 1, has yet to begin production.
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At the heart of this thriller is Kaali, a humble provision store owner and devoted family man whose entanglement in a perilous crime network leads him on a clandestine mission.
Featuring Vikram in the titular role, the thriller movie stars S. J. Suryah, Dushara Vijayan, Siddique, Pavel Navageethan, and Suraj Venjaramoodu in his Tamil debut.
10 months ago
Bapparaj finally finds ‘Hena’ but…
Recently, a viral dialogue "Chacha, Hena Kothay?" from the 1996 Bangladeshi film ‘Premer Shamadhi’ has taken social media by storm, flooding it with countless memes and videos. The resurgence of this classic scene has amused fans and even brought joy to the original stars of this scene, Bapparaj and Shabnaz.
In a fittingly dramatic twist, Bapparaj finally found his Hena on Wednesday, as the much-anticipated reunion took place in Tangail at an event hosted by actor Nayeem, Shabnaz's real-life husband, at his ancestral home, Saheb Bari. Bapparaj and other guests attended the gathering, where a playful recreation of the viral scene unfolded.
A video shared on Shabnaz 's Facebook page captured the moment, as Bapparaj arrives in a car, asking Nayeem the viral question: "Nayeem Bhai, Hena kothay?" (Nayeem Bhai, where is Hena?).
In response, Nayeem, with a mischievous grin, replied: "Bappa, you’re too late! Hena married me long ago." In mock despair, Bapparaj dramatically exclaims, "No, I don’t believe this!" - which is the artist’s widely popular dialogue-turned-meme, running in recent times on social platforms.
Adding to the fun, guests break into chorusing the song “Premer Shamadhi Chhere…” from the film; and just as the moment peaks, Shabnaz, the real-life ‘Hena’ - made a surprise entrance, delighting everyone.
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The dialogue originates from the 1996 film ‘Premer Shamadhi’, directed by Iftekhar Jahan, with a story, screenplay, and dialogues penned by Delwar Jahan Jhantu. Shabnaz played Hena in the film, while Bapparaj portrayed Bakul.
As of this report, the video has garnered over 12 million views on Facebook, and the nostalgic and humorous reunion has proved once again the magic of classic Bangladeshi films endures through generations.
10 months ago
March 2025 Bollywood Movie Releases: Top 10 Most-Anticipated Hindi Films to Watch
Bollywood, a powerhouse of storytelling and spectacle, is set to captivate audiences this March 2025 with an exciting lineup of highly anticipated releases. From action-packed thrillers and spine-chilling horrors to heartwarming musicals and gripping biopics, there’s something for every movie lover. With A-list stars and acclaimed directors leading the charge, these films are already generating major buzz. Here’s a curated look at the top 10 Hindi movies poised to dominate the box office and captivate audiences this March.
Top 10 Must-see Hindi Movies Coming this March
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The Diplomat | Thriller | March 07, 2025
Starring John Abraham, this intriguing thriller is directed by Shivam Nair and written by Ritesh Shah.
At the heart of this gripping narrative lies an Indian diplomat’s relentless quest to bring an Indian girl back home from Pakistan.
Sadia Khateeb, Bhawani Muzamil, Kumud Mishra, Sharib Hashmi, Amitoj Mann, Jagjeet Sandhu, Sehar Shehnaz, and Vidhatri Bandi round out the supporting cast.
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The cinematic venture unites the production houses- Fortune Films, JA Entertainment, Seeta Films, T-Series, and Wakaoo Films.
Hindi Vindi | Musical Drama | March 08, 2025
This musical follows Kabir, a teenage musician caught in a whirlwind of self-discovery as he races against time to compose a song in a language he does not speak. His internal conflict deepens when his Indian grandmother moves to Sydney, confronting him with a cultural and linguistic divide.
Besides directing the film, Ali Sayed wrote it with Jayant Sharma and Swarnima Singh.
Mihir Ahuja and Neena Gupta led the cast supported by Guy Sebastian, Mathew Swift, Davida Tal, Simran Gulati, and Pranam Janney.
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The production credit goes to 24Six Films, Drishya Sharma Productions, and Shah Entertainment Media (Mumbai).
Kesari Chapter 2 | Courtroom Drama | March 14, 2025
Also known as ‘The Untold Story of C Sankaran Nair’, this legal drama takes shape under the direction of Karan Singh Tyagi. The writing team includes Amritpal Bindra (Screenplay), Akshat Ghildial(dialogue), Sumit Saxena, and Tyagi.
This biographical drama delves into the life of C. Sankaran Nair, a distinguished lawyer and former President of the Indian National Congress. The narrative unravels his unyielding pursuit of truth in exposing the grim reality behind the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
Bankrolled by Cape of Good Films, Dharma Productions, and Leo Media Collective, the film stars Akshay Kumar, Madhavan, and Ananya Panday as lead characters.
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The additional cast members are Steven Hartley, Mark Bennington, Sammy Jonas Heaney, Krish Rao, and Moumita Pal.
Kesari Veer | Historical Action | March 14, 2025
Penned by Kanu Chauhan and Shitiz Srivastava, this historical film boasts Prince Dhiman as the director.
Rooted in history, this epic tale brings to life the valor of Hamirji Gohil, a fearless warrior who stood against the formidable Tughlaq Empire. His unwavering resolve to protect the Somnath Temple and uphold Hinduism transforms his story into a saga of sacrifice and unshakable devotion.
Produced by Chauhan Studios, this action movie thrives with Sooraj Pancholi, Suniel Shetty, Akanksha Sharma, and Vivek Oberoi as lead actors.
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Aruna Irani, Barkha Bisht, Kiran Kumar, Meenakshi Chugh, and Vikas Bangar portray the supporting characters.
Rai | Crime | March 15, 2025
Directed and written by Ram Gopal Varma, this crime movie features Vivek Oberoi as the titular character, with Karishma Tanna as the female lead.
Inspired by real events, this riveting crime drama unpacks the life of Muthappa Rai, a wealthy businessman entangled in allegations of running a criminal empire.
The film’s production is spearheaded by RGV Film Company and Eros Worldwide.
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10 months ago
First look at Matt Damon in Christopher Nolan’s epic ‘The Odyssey’
The first image from Christopher Nolan’s highly anticipated film, The Odyssey, has been unveiled, offering a glimpse of Matt Damon as the legendary Greek hero Odysseus.
The image, which shows Damon with his back to the camera, depicts him in a warrior’s robe, seemingly just returning from battle after the Trojan War.
Produced by Universal Pictures, this star-studded adaptation of Homer’s classic epic poem features an impressive cast, including Tom Holland, Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong'o, Anne Hathaway, Charlize Theron, Benny Safdie, and Jon Bernthal, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
The film follows Odysseus, the King of Ithaca, on his treacherous 10-year journey home after the Trojan War. Along the way, he encounters numerous obstacles, including interventions from gods, encounters with mythical beings such as Cyclopes, and challenges posed by his wife's suitors, who are vying for his throne in his absence.
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Although details about the film remain scarce, reports suggest that Mia Goth could be playing a siren, a mythical creature whose enchanting voice lures sailors to their doom. Another possibility is that she portrays a deity or a statue. Universal Pictures has yet to confirm these speculations.
The supporting cast includes Elliot Page, Himesh Patel, Bill Irwin, and Samantha Morton. With its exploration of heroism, resilience, and intelligence, The Odyssey remains one of Western literature’s most revered works. Nolan’s adaptation is set to bring this timeless tale to the big screen on July 17, 2026.
10 months ago
Will Smith wins $1.7m copyright lawsuit over Gemini Man
Actor Will Smith has been cleared of all claims in a $1.7 million copyright lawsuit concerning the 2019 sci-fi film Gemini Man. According to In Touch, a federal judge dismissed the allegations against him on 31 January, though the lawsuit against other defendants remains active.
Sci-fi author Kissinger Sibanda had filed the case against Will, along with Skydance Productions, Gemini Pictures, Paramount Pictures, David Ellison, and other companies, alleging that Gemini Man was plagiarised from his 2011 novel The Return to Gibraltar.
While Will is no longer involved in the case, the author is expected to continue legal proceedings against the remaining defendants.
Kissinger claims that his book tells the story of an African American who is cloned and used in a time-travel programme without consent. He alleged that elements such as themes, characters, and cultural aspects were lifted from his work.
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He also noted that the film had been in development since 1997 but struggled to progress until after his book’s release. Additionally, he stated that he had shared a copy of his novel with Will’s stunt double in 2012, though he could not recall their name.
The lawsuit further alleged that copies of his book were sent to a major Hollywood talent agency. In 2020, Kissinger sent a legal notice regarding the matter but received no response.
Will and the production companies responded to the case in November 2024, arguing that the author had previously filed a similar lawsuit that was dismissed due to a lack of registered copyright.
A week after that dismissal, Kissinger refilled his complaint.
Despite a production budget of $138 million (excluding marketing costs), Gemini Man earned $173 million worldwide.
10 months ago