United News of Bangladesh

The release of Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan's film “Pathaan” in Bangladesh on Friday was greeted by sold-out tickets. The moment finally arrived for Bangladesh fans. The movie was released at 41 movie theaters around the country. Every day, there will be 206 shows of the film. “Pathaan” has been released in Bangladesh under SAFTA agreement. According to the import conditions, Shakib Khan's “Panku Jamai” has been exported to India. “Pathaan” has been imported in Bangladesh by Action Cut Entertainment. Another Bollywood star John Abraham shared the screen with Shah Rukh Khan for the first time in Siddharth Anand's “Pathaan”. Deepika Padukone has once again shown glimpses against the King of Bollywood. “Pathaan” has already made history in Bollywood. It has broken the records of many films of the past. And even in the international arena, “Pathaan” was the result of a long wait for Shah Rukh fans. With “Pathaan”, the box office is opening for the first time in some halls of Bangladesh. Ananya Mamun, owner of Action Cut Entertainment, said initially 15 halls will be arranged for the box office. There will be an extension from the second week.    

Samaresh Majumdar, the renowned Bengali novelist from West Bengal, India passed away on May 8, 2023. He was not only a prolific writer but also a source of inspiration for many filmmakers and TV drama producers. Majumdar's works were known for their realistic portrayal of social issues and human emotions. Some of his novels have been adapted into critically acclaimed films and TV dramas. From the Naxal movement in "Kalbela" to the character of detective Arjun in "Buno Haansh," Majumdar's works have taken the Bengali literary and cinematic world to a new height. Let’s explore some of the most memorable films and dramas based on Samaresh Majumdar's novels. 7 Films and TV Dramas based on Samaresh Majumdar’s Works to Watch Kaalbela Directed by Goutam Ghose the film "Kaalbela" was released on May 19, 2016. This film features a stellar cast including Soumitra Chatterjee, Santu Mukherjee, Parambrata Chatterjee, Rudranil Ghosh, Bratya Basu, Anandi Ghose, and others.  The story, based on a novel by Majumdar, revolves around the disillusionment of young Bengali students who take up the cause of revolution, only to be left with unanswered questions regarding the conduct of those who change their tracks midway.  The story is set against the backdrop of the political unrest in Kolkata during the 1960s, where we see Madhabilata fighting against societal norms as an unwed mother, while Animesh questions the ideology he once fought for. The film highlights the struggles faced by these young revolutionaries and the impact it has on their lives. The film manages to capture the essence of the novel and brings it to life on screen. Overall, "Kaalbela" is a compelling drama that is worth watching for its stellar performances and thought-provoking storyline. Read More: Netflix Originals in English Coming in June 2023 Buno Haansh “Buno Haansh” is a Bengali action thriller film directed by Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury, based on a novel by Samaresh Majumdar. The film was one of the high-budget films of Tollywood and was released on 15 August 2014. The main theme centres around Amal, who gets deeply involved in smuggling and eventually realises that he is a part of a dangerous game.  The film features Srabanti Chatterjee and Tanusree Chakraborty as the female leads and Moon Moon Sen as the central character.  “Buno Haansh” was produced by Bhushan Kumar and Arindam Sil served as the executive producer. The film was shot in various locations, including Mumbai, Bangladesh, and Thailand. Read More: ‘Deora’: Coke Studio Bangla’s latest featuring Pritom and Islamuddin Palakar is an instant hit   Arjun – Kalimpong E Sitaharan Bengali thriller film titled "Arjun - Kalimpong E Sitaharan," directed by Prem Prakash Modi and produced by Mukul Sarkar, was released in 2013. The movie starred Om Prakash Sahani and Sabyasachi Chakraborty as the lead actors.  Arjun is a famous Bengali fictional character created by the renowned novelist Samaresh Majumdar, primarily for a young audience. The film's storyline is based on two novels of Samaresh Majumdar, "Sitaharan Rahasya" and "Khunkharapi."  The storyline revolves around Sita, a teenage girl on the brink of adulthood, born and raised in the United States, who is brought to Kalimpong by her father to keep her away from her boyfriend, whom he considers a bad influence. The situation gets complicated when everyone appears to be part of a conspiracy and deception. The climax reveals that Sita's father is the culprit, as disclosed by Amol Shome (played by Sabyasachi Chakraborty). Arjun (starring Om) helps his mentor Amol solve the case in Kalimpong.  The film was shot in different locations in West Bengal and Sikkim, including the scenic spots of Kalimpong with misty mountains and dense jungles. Critics and reviewers gave the film mixed reviews, with some criticising the weak dialogues and loud background score. Nonetheless, Om's depiction of Arjun, a sleuth of the Gen X, received praise. Read More: May 2023 New Releases: Top 10 Upcoming South Indian Films Garbhodharini “Garbhodharini” is a TV adaptation of Samaresh Majumdar's novel that narrates the story of four friends who want to change the outlooks and values of their society.

At the MTV Movie & TV Awards on Sunday, Tom Cruise, the "Top Gun: Maverick" actor, got an award for best performance in a movie for his role in the 2022 picture, and delivered his acceptance speech in a pre-recorded video that showed him flying a jet. Cruise thanked viewers for voting for him and stated, "I love you, I love entertaining you," reports CNN. Cruise piloted the jet personally, according to a Paramount spokesman who verified this to CNN on Sunday. She went on to say that the jet Cruise was flying was his, and that it was the same P-51 Mustang he flew in “Top Gun: Maverick.” Cruise is known for performing his own stunts, and he even thanked audiences for their support of the blockbuster sequel in a video released to his verified Instagram last year, in which he was shown free-falling from a jet. Steven Spielberg himself dubbed Cruise the "Savior of Movies," and he ended his speech on Sunday by adding, "See you at the movies." "Top Gun: Maverick," the sequel to the 1986 hit "Top Gun," was the highest-grossing movie of 2022, following years of instability at the box office caused by the pandemic, and is Cruise's first film to exceed the billion-dollar mark. Overall, Cruise flying a jet to receive an award adds new meaning to the line from "Top Gun: Maverick" character Rooster (Miles Teller), "It's not the plane, it's the pilot," the report concluded.

Movies have always been one of the biggest forms of entertainment around the world. In recent times, the four industries of South Indian movies- Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada - have become hugely popular among film enthusiasts for their unique storyline, engaging content, powerful acting, creative cinematography, etc. Let’s take a look at the 10 most anticipated South Indian films releasing in May 2023. Top 10 South Indian Movies to Release in May 2023 Dhruva Natchathiram  Dhruva Natchathiram is one of the most hyped South Indian movies of 2023 that started production in 2016. It is a Tamil spy thriller film. Gautham Vasudev Menon directed and wrote the story and screenplay of the film. In this movie the main casts are Vikram, Ritu Varma, and Aishwarya Rajesh. Vikram played the central character John who is on a New York based undercover operation. John with his team rescues their team leader after his unexplained and mysterious disappearance. The budget for this film is unknown. This movie will be released on 19 May, 2023. Read More: Bongo BD releasing south Indian movie ‘Mersal’ in Bangla Custody Custody is expected to be a blockbuster this year. This movie is an action thriller produced by Srinivasaa Silver Screen. In this film Venkat Prabhu is the director and screenplay writer. Naga Chaitanya Akkineni is in lead role along with Arvind Swamy and Krithi Shetty. Priyamani, Sarathkumar are playing the supporting roles.  The movie was filmed in both Telugu and Tamil languages at the same time. The budget for this movie is approximately Rs 30 crore. It is dated to be released on 12 May, 2023. Ugram  According to expectations, the upcoming film "Ugram" is anticipated to become a blockbuster hit this year. This movie is an action thriller produced by Sahu Garapati and Harish Peddi. In this film Vijay Kanakamedala is the director and screenplay writer both.  Allari Naresh is the lead actor, with Mirnaa and Indraja also featuring in the film. Additionally, Sharath Lohithaswa and Shatru will be playing supporting roles. The amount of money allocated for the production of this movie is around Rs 20 crore. "Ugram" is set to release on May 9th, 2023. Read More: 12 Bangla Dramas to Watch During Eid-ul-Fitr 2023 Hanuman  Hanuman, a Telugu superhero film, is produced by Primeshow Entertainment. The movie is both written and directed by Prasanth Varma. Teja Sajia plays the main role as Hanuman. Supporting cast includes Amritha Aiyer, Varalaxmi Sarathkumar, and Raj Deepak Shetty.  The story is set in an imaginary village called Anjanadri. The plot is inspired by and dedicated to Hindu God Hanuman. This film has a budget of  Rs 17 crore. On 12 May, 2023 the movie is scheduled to be released in Telugu along with ten different dubbed language versions. Furthermore, it will be available on online platforms like Zee5.  Rama Banam  Telugu film Rama Banam offers a blend of action, drama, and romance. It is directed by Sriwass and the screenplay is penned by Bhupathi Raja. Vivek Kuchibhotla and T.G. Vishwa Prasad has produced this movie under the name People Media Factory.  The film stars Gopichand, Dimple Hayathi, Nassar, and Jagapathi Babu in the lead roles, while Vennela Kishore, Ali, Raja Ravindra, and Sapthagiri are in supporting roles. The budget for the production of this movie is not disclosed. The audiences can enjoy the movie from 5 May 2023.  Read More: 6 Bangladeshi Movies Releasing on Eid-ul-Fitr 2023

There is something for everyone at the movies this summer, both in theaters and streaming at home. In May, audiences can bid farewell to the Guardians of the Galaxy, go to Italy with Jane Fonda, Diane Keaton, Mary Steenburgen and Candice Bergen, or under the sea with Halle Bailey and Melissa McCarthy. June brings “Indiana Jones 5,” a “Spider-Verse” sequel, “The Flash” a new Pixar pic and one film many have already called the best of the year (“Past Lives”). And things get really exciting in July with the highly anticipated debuts of “Oppenheimer,” “Mission: Impossible 7,” “Barbie,” while August promises a new take on the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and introduces a new DC superhero, Blue Beetle. Here’s a month-by-month guide of this summer’s new movies. May 5 “ Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 ” (Disney/Marvel, theaters): Nine years after the non-comic obsessed world was introduced to Peter Quill, Rocket, Groot and the rest of the Guardians of the Galaxy, the misfits are closing out the trilogy and saying goodbye to director James Gunn, who is now leading rival DC. “ What’s Love Got to Do with It? ” (Shout! Studios, theaters): Lily James plays a documentary filmmaker whose next project follows her neighbor (Shazad Latif) on his road to an arranged marriage in this charming romantic comedy.  

Prosecutors on Friday formally dismissed an involuntary manslaughter charge against Alec Baldwin in the fatal 2021 shooting of a cinematographer on the set of the Western film “Rust, ” citing new evidence and the need for more time to investigate. In a stunning turnaround for the 65-year-old A-list actor, special prosecutors Kari Morrissey and Jason Lewis filed the notice to dismiss the only remaining criminal allegation against Baldwin in state District Court in Santa Fe. Prosecutors say the investigation of the shooting that killed Halyna Hutchins and injured director Joel Souza is ongoing. An involuntary manslaughter charge against Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the weapons supervisor on the film, is unchanged. Friday's court filing echoed early statements from prosecutors that new facts had been revealed that demand further investigation and forensic analysis. On Thursday, after Baldwin's attorneys announced the decision, the special prosecutors said the “decision does not absolve Mr. Baldwin of criminal culpability and charges may be refiled.” They have declined further comment and only vaguely addressed the matter during a virtual status conference Friday in Gutierrez-Reed's case. Also read: 'Rust' movie reboots after Alec Baldwin shooting Los Angeles-based entertainment litigator and defense attorney Kate Mangels, who is not involved in the “Rust” case, said opportunities for further charges against Baldwin are narrowing. “If they don’t have the evidence now, I don’t see what evidence they could obtain or that could develop. …It looks like they already had 30 people on a witness list, a cooperative (codefendant) witness, investigations done by various law enforcement agencies. It seems like this has already been pretty well investigated. I can’t imagine what would arise to bring new charges.” Authorities have not determined how live ammunition found its way into the .45-caliber revolver made by an Italian company that specializes in 19th century reproductions. Baldwin has said the gun fired accidentally after he followed instructions to point it toward Hutchins, who was behind the camera. Baldwin said he pulled back the hammer — but not the trigger — and the gun fired. An August FBI report on the agency’s analysis of the gun found that, as is common with firearms of that design, it could go off without pulling the trigger if force was applied to an uncocked hammer — such as by dropping the weapon. The only way the testers could get it to fire was by striking the gun with a mallet while the hammer was down and resting on the cartridge, or by pulling the trigger while it was fully cocked. The gun eventually broke during the testing. After reading the FBI report, retired Seattle police Detective Donald Ledbetter said it was unlikely the gun would have gone off without the trigger being pulled. In March, “Rust” safety coordinator and assistant director David Halls pleaded no contest to a conviction for unsafe handling of a firearm and received a suspended sentence of six months of probation. He agreed to cooperate in the investigation of the fatal shooting. A defense attorney for Halls said Friday that he is happy for Baldwin and also wishes the best for the Hutchins family. “Mr. Halls never believed Mr. Baldwin should be charged with a crime. It was a tragic accident that is best resolved out of criminal court,” defense attorney Lisa Torraco said in an email. When the manslaughter charges were announced in January, Santa Fe District Attorney Mary Carmack-Altwies said the case was about equal justice under the law and accountability in Hutchins’ death, regardless of the fame or fortune of those involved. She said the Ukrainian-born cinematographer’s death was tragic — and preventable. A new legal team took over prosecution of Baldwin and Gutierrez-Reed in late March, after the original special prosecutor appointed in the case resigned. When word of the dismissal came, Baldwin was at Yellowstone Film Ranch on the set of a rebooted “Rust” production, a representative for Rust Movie Productions said. Preparations for filming were underway at the film's new location in Montana, 18 months after the shooting shut it down. Gutierrez-Reed’s attorneys said they fully expect her to be exonerated in the judicial process. A preliminary hearing scheduled in May was pushed back to August on Friday after prosecutors said they need more time. “The truth about what happened will come out and the questions that we have long sought answers for will be answered,” the lawyers, Jason Bowles and Todd Bullion, said in a statement. Before Friday's dismissal, the case against Baldwin had already been diminishing. In February, a weapons enhancement to the manslaughter charge was dropped, reducing the maximum prison sentence from five years to 18 months. Baldwin's 40-year career has included the early blockbuster “The Hunt for Red October” and a starring role in the sitcom “30 Rock,” as well as iconic appearances in Martin Scorsese’s “The Departed” and a film adaptation of David Mamet’s “Glengarry Glen Ross.” In recent years, he was known for his impression of former President Donald Trump on “Saturday Night Live." Baldwin has worked little as an actor since the shooting but hardly went into hiding. He stayed active on social media, making Instagram videos, posting podcast interviews and pictures of his wife and seven children. He and his wife posted pictures on their Instagram accounts Thursday embracing each other. Plans to resume filming were outlined last year by the cinematographer's widower, Matthew Hutchins, in a proposed settlement to a wrongful death lawsuit that would make him an executive producer. Souza has said he will return to directing “Rust” to honor the legacy of Halyna Hutchins. Gloria Allred, attorney for other Hutchins relatives who filed their own lawsuit, and for “Rust” script supervisor Mamie Mitchell, who witnessed the shooting and filed the first suit over it, said Friday that her clients will press forward with their civil litigation against Baldwin, regardless of what happens with the criminal charges. “Mr. Baldwin should know that we remain committed to fighting and winning for our clients and holding him accountable for pointing a loaded gun at Halyna Hutchins, pulling the trigger, and killing her,” Allred said in a statement.

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.”

Bongo BD is releasing the Bangla dubbed version of the popular South Indian film ‘Mersal’. ‘Mersal’ is an action packed romantic movie featuring Vijay Thalapathy, Samantha, Nithya Menon and Kajal Aggarwal. The movie, which has garnered critical acclaim and mass appeal in the south, is now set to enthrall audiences in Bangladesh with its unique storyline, powerful performances and stunning visuals, according to a Bongo BD media release. As the leading OTT platform in Bangladesh, Bongo BD has always strived to bring the best entertainment to its viewers. With the release of ‘Mersal’ in Bangla, Bongo aims to further their commitment to providing top-quality content to Bangladeshi audiences, it said. ‘Mersal’ tells the story of a doctor, played by Vijay, who sets out to expose the corruption in the medical industry. With a mix of action, drama and romance, the movie is a complete package of entertainment that will keep you hooked till the very end, it read. The Bangla dubbed version of ‘Mersal’ will be available exclusively on Bongo BD from April 21, it added.

After fasting for a month during Ramadan, the biggest religious festival for Muslims, Eid-ul-Fitr, arrives. Along with the celebrations, the occasion also brings new hopes and excitement to the entertainment and film industry of Bangladesh. Every year, filmmakers target this festive season to release their big-budget movies, featuring top stars and promising storylines. Eid-ul-Fitr 2023 is no exception. With a lineup of much-awaited movies, Dhallywood and Bangla OTT platforms are all set to entertain their audiences. From action thrillers to romantic dramas, this year's Eid releases promise to cater to a diverse range of tastes. Here's a look at the upcoming Bangladeshi movies that will hit the theaters during Eid-ul-Fitr. 6 Most Anticipated Bangladeshi Movies Releasing on Eid-Ul-Fitr 2023 Leader: Amie Bangladesh Bangladeshi film enthusiasts have been waiting for months for the release of "Leader: Amie Bangladesh." Directed by Topu Khan, the movie features popular actors Shakib Khan and Shobnom Bubly. Directed by Topu Khan, the film is his first directorial venture, and it has been produced by Syed Ashik Rahman, director of Bengal Multimedia. Though started in February 2021, the film’s shooting was halted due to the pandemic. The movie's production was finally wrapped up in October 2022. After getting clearance from the Censor Board, the film is now ready for release. The movie's first look poster was unveiled in May 2021 at a press conference, and a 51-second teaser was released on National Film Day on April 3, 2023. The film is now set to be released during the upcoming Eid ul Fitr in 2023. Read More: Govt allows import of foreign films on five conditions Jinn Jinn, an upcoming Bangladeshi psycho-thriller film, is finally set to hit the theaters after multiple attempts to release it. Directed by Nader Chowdhury and co-produced by Abdul Aziz and Alimullah Khokon under the banner of Jaaz Multimedia, the film features a star-studded cast including Puja Cherry, Ziaul Roshan, Shajal, Jannatun Nur Moon, and Shahid un Nabi in important roles. The story of the film, penned by Abdul Aziz, revolves around the lives of Rafsan, a professional photographer portrayed by Shajal, and his wife Monalisa, played by Puja Cherry.  The film’s shooting began in August 2019, and after numerous delays, it is now scheduled to release in the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr 2023. With Saiful Shahin behind the camera, Mohammad Kalam handling the editing, and Javed Ahmed Kislu composing the music, Jinn promises a gripping cinematic experience for Bangladeshi moviegoers. Read More: May 2023 New Releases: Netflix Original English Movies, Series Kill Him Fans of Bangladeshi cinema can look forward to the release of the action-thriller film "Kill Him" in 2023, featuring popular actors Ananta Jalil and Afiea Nusrat Barsha in lead roles. Directed and produced by Mohammad Iqbal under the banner of Sunan Movies, the film promises to be an exciting addition to the Dhallywood film industry.  In the film, the intense action sequences of Ananta and Rubel will entertain the audience. Fans were recently given a sneak peek of what's to come, as Ananta unveiled the poster of "Kill Him" on 10 April 2023. The film is expected to hit theaters on Eid-ul-Fitr this year. This film marks the first film of Ananta and Barsha outside of their own productions. Read More: True story behind Rani Mukerji’s latest film “Mrs Chatterjee Vs Norway”

Nurul Alam Atique's “Pyara Subash” or “The Scent of Sin” has made it to the competition category in the 45th edition of the Moscow International Film Festival, according to the official website and Facebook page of the festival.“Pyara Subash” is one of the 12 films in the competition category. There are also films from Argentina, Russia, China, France, and Japan in this category.Jaya Ahsan played the lead role in the film while Tariq Anam Khan, and Ahmed Rubel, among others, have played as other lead characters.The 45th edition of the Moscow International Film Festival will take place from April 20 to 27.Bangladeshi film “Adim” was also on the list of competition sections in the last edition of the film festival.