Cinema
First-ever Bangla-dubbed Thai movie ‘Bad Genius’ to be released on Bongo tomorrow
Bongo, Bangladesh's first OTT platform, is going to release Bangla-dubbed version of Thai heist thriller movie ‘Bad Genius’ for the first time in the country tomorrow (Friday).
The internationally acclaimed Thai movie co-written and directed by Nattawut Poonpiriya is coming to the Bongo app on September 1.
In the lead character of the movie, Lynn is a brilliant student from a lower-middle-class family and her dad is the only person in her family.
Read: Startup Bangladesh invests Tk 5cr in Bongo
Due to her talent, she obtained a scholarship to a prestigious school where students are mostly rich kids.
Lynn befriends a rich student named Grace on her first day at school. Grace asks Lynn to let her copy her answer sheet for the sake of friendship.
Initially, Lynn is against it but later she agrees. Subsequently Grace's boyfriend Pat offers money to Lynn to cheat on the exam.
Read: 'Ei Mon Tomake Dilam': Award-winning Chinese drama dubbed in Bangla on Bongo BD
However, there's a catch! It's not just Pat, his other rich friends want Lynn's help too. In return, Lynn's gonna make a fortune!
After witnessing her poor father's lifelong struggle and economic inequality in the society, she decides to commit the misdemeanors.
Having aced local exams, Lynn challenged herself to cheat in international exams! Will Lynn be able to cheat on the international exam? Is it that simple?
To know the answers, you have to see "Bad Genius" on the Bongo app with Bengali dubbing.
Read more: Symon-Mahi's LIVE movie is coming to Bongo!
Mostofa Sarwar Farooki makes acting debut in Chorki's 'Something Like an Autobiography'
Acclaimed filmmaker Mostofa Sarwar Farooki is making his acting debut with his web film "Something Like an Autobiography" as part of Chorki’s "Ministry of Love" anthology film series.
Farooki, along with his wife, actress Nusrat Imrose Tisha, will be coming together on screen for the film as their first-ever acting project, for which they have also co-written the screenplay.
Also read: No filmmaker should experience what I did: Farooki
Chorki revealed the first look of this film on its social media handles on Wednesday afternoon.
"For almost the last 25 years, I have been trying to tell different stories. Those stories have impacted our audiences more or less, and my experiments regarding acting and storytelling always continued for those stories, but the one thing I always kept myself distant from was acting."
"When I was writing this film with Tisha, we realised that we both had to act in this film. I was initially hesitant about it, but Rony (Chorki CEO) and Tisha insisted. Tisha motivated me by saying that this story could be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for me, so I moved forward," Farooki posted on Facebook regarding his acting debut on Wednesday.
Also read: Farooki’s "No Land’s Man" wins Prix du Public award in France
Farooki also revealed that the film has been selected to compete at the 28th Busan International Film Festival’s main competition section in October, along with having its world premiere at the festival.
According to Chorki, "Something Like an Autobiography" will be competing with some of Asia's most prominent filmmakers this year, including Filipino master filmmaker Brillante Mendoza, Sri Lankan powerhouse Prasanna Vithanaga, and Indonesia's Yosep Anggi Noen, among others, in the ‘Kim Jiseok competition category’ for established filmmakers from Asia.
Tisha is returning to work after motherhood with this film. "I had no idea I would be able to start working so soon," she added. "Farooki has given me the confidence to get back into shape and work, and I thank the Almighty for allowing me to work on such an emotional story, especially after the birth of our daughter Ilham," the actress remarked.
Also read: Chorki to bring ‘Shurongo’ with extended Director’s Cut version
Like every other artist, I also hold expectations regarding my works, but I have great expectations regarding this particular film, as this is our special story. This film is like our second child. Farooki is a brilliant filmmaker, and with 'Something Like an Autobiography', the audiences will get to see how good of an actor he is," Tisha said.
Chorki CEO Redoan Rony said, "This film is very special from other films, as Farooki Bhai acted for the first time in this movie. We are all looking forward to seeing him on screen. Also, this is the first Chorki Original film to go to the Busan Film Festival, which is a great matter of pride for us."
Farooki has directed two web films for Chokri’s "Ministry of Love" anthology series while overseeing the project, which is set to bring 12 new web films with 12 acclaimed filmmakers. His other film, "Last Defenders of Monogamy," stars Chanchal Chowdhury and singer Xefer in the lead roles.
Top 12 South Indian Films Being Released in September 2023
In the swiftly evolving landscape of pan-Indian cinema, a carnival of splendid narratives is set to grace screens this September. The allure of the Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Tamil film industries remains. These industries offer a diverse cinematic experience, from heartwarming tales to high-octane action. Captivating visuals are a natural feature of these films. Their popularity inevitably extends beyond regional boundaries. Let's get into the top 12 South Indian films set to release in September 2023.
12 Most Anticipated South Indian Movies for September 2023
Sapta Saagaradaache Ello – Side A / Kannada / 1 September 2023
Directed by Hemanth M Rao, this is a romantic drama starring Rakshit Shetty and Rukmini Vasanth. Charan Raj's music complements the tale of Priya and Manu, whose passionate relationship faces a hurdle when Manu is imprisoned.
Set before the pandemic, the film explores love's endurance. Penned by Gundu Shetty and Hemanth, the story unfolds in two interconnected parts. "Side A", weaves a tale of their journey, while "Side B" advances a decade later.
The movie promises an emotional and resonant narrative, highlighted by the director's dual-part vision and compelling performances.
Read more: Chorki to bring ‘Shurongo’ with extended Director’s Cut version
Kaddha Chitra / Kannada / 8 September 2023
This is a highly anticipated film starring Vijay Raghavendra, known for his intense roles. Directed by Suhas Krishna, the film delves into the shadowy world of gangsters and their nefarious activities.
Joining Raghavendra are Raghu Shivamogga and Namrata Surendranath, adding their own layer of complexity to the tale. With power-packed performances and high-octane drama, it promises to leave an indelible mark on the audience.
Produced by Sandeep H.K. and Suhas D., the movie brings together a talented team that promises a visually stunning and emotionally charged cinematic experience.
Read more: Don 3: Bollywood’s New Don Ranveer Singh Replaces Shah Rukh Khan
Tatsama Tadbhava / Kannada / 15 September 2023
It marks a significant moment in actor Meghana Raj's career, making her comeback to the silver screen. Directed by Vishal Atreya, the movie pairs Meghana with Prajwal Devraj, promising emotionally charged performances.
A seasoned police inspector embarks on a journey to uncover the truth behind a mysterious missing person case. Eventually, audiences can expect a roller-coaster of emotions and intrigue.
The film's trailer, released earlier, offers a tantalizing glimpse into the suspense and tension that await. "Tatsama Tadbhava" is set to captivate audiences with its spellbinding storytelling and powerful performances.
Read more: Upcoming Netflix Originals in September 2023
Kushi / Telugu / 1 September 2023
This upcoming romantic comedy promises a delightfully filmy approach to audiences. Directed and written by Shiva Nirvana, the film pairs Vijay Deverakonda with Samantha Ruth Prabhu.
Set against the realm of state-run telecom and corporate professionalism, the narrative explores the blossoming romance between Viplav and Aradhya. With its heartwarming story and relatable characters, "Kushi" is expected to strike a chord with viewers of all ages.
Produced by Mythri Movie Makers, the movie's release has generated anticipation for eye-soothing entertainment.
Read more: ‘Hero or villain?’ Shah Rukh Khan teases with new ‘Jawan’ poster
Skanda / Telugu / 15 September 2023
This film, directed by Boyapati Srinu, takes audiences on a thrilling ride into a world of valor and justice. With Ram Pothineni and Sree Leela in the lead roles, the movie promises performances that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Set against the backdrop of a fictional kingdom, the narrative centers around Skanda, a fearless warrior who champions the cause of the oppressed. The film is written by M. Rathnam and Boyapati, known for their ability to create engaging stories.
S.S. Thaman's musical compositions add to the experience, and Santosh Detake's cinematography captures the action and emotion. All of these leave Skanda geared up to be a blockbuster.
Produced by Srinivasaa Silver Screen and Zee Studios, the film's release has fans excited for an epic cinematic journey.
Read more: 'Ei Mon Tomake Dilam': Award-winning Chinese drama dubbed in Bangla on Bongo BD
Salaar Part 1 – Ceasefire / Telugu / 28 September 2023
Helmed by Prashanth Neel, the film holds the promise of being an adrenaline-pumping action thriller. With Prabhas in the lead role as the titular character, supported by a stellar ensemble cast, expectations are high.
The trailer has already set the stage for heart-pounding confrontations and intense drama. This inception part of Salaar is produced by Hombale Films, a name synonymous with quality and grandeur. Bhuvan Gowda's cinematography and Ravi Basrur's music are expected to enhance the storytelling.
The movie's release is eagerly awaited by fans of gripping narratives and spectacular action sequences.
Read more: Bollywood superstar Alia Bhatt makes her Hollywood debut in Netflix's 'Heart of Stone'
‘Blue Beetle’ unseats ‘Barbie’ atop box office, ending four-week reign
The DC superhero film “Blue Beetle” led weekend ticket sales with a modest $25.4 million opening, according to studio estimates Sunday, dethroning “Barbie” from the top spot after a record-setting run that left movie theaters colored pink for a month.
The “Barbie” phenomenon is far from over. Greta Gerwig’s film, which earlier this week became the highest grossing Warner Bros. release ever domestically, nearly managed to stay No. 1 again with $21.5 million in its fifth weekend. It’s up to $567.3 million in North America and an eye-popping $1.28 billion globally.
The other half of “Barbenheimer” also continues to perform remarkably well for a movie so far into its run.
Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer” took in $10.6 million in its fifth week. With a $285.2 million domestic total, “Oppenheimer” now owns the distinction of being the biggest box-office hit never to land No. 1 at the weekend box office. The previous record-holder for that unlikely stat is 2016’s “Sing,” which grossed $270.3 million in the shadow of “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” and “Hidden Figures.”
Read: Barbie: Interesting Facts to Know Before Watching the Movie
Universal Pictures’ “Oppenheimer” has done even better overseas. Its global gross stands at an estimated $717.8 million through Sunday.
“Blue Beetle,” starring Xolo Maridueña, came in on the lower side of expectations and notched one of the lower debuts for a DC Comics movie. Though earlier planned as a streaming-only release, Warner Bros. elected to put “Blue Beetle,” the first DC movie to star a Latino superhero, into theaters in the late summer, a typically quiet period at the box office.
The production price tag of about $105 million was lower for “Blue Beetle” than the average superhero film. It’s one of the last releases produced under an earlier regime at DC Studios, which James Gunn and Peter Safran took the reins of last year.
The film, directed by Ángel Manuel Soto and written by Gareth Dunnet-Alcocer, drew solid reviews – certainly better than the three previous DC releases this year (“The Flash,” “Black Adam” and “Shazam! Fury of the Gods”). “Blue Beetle” (76% fresh on Rotten Tomatoes) is the rare comic-book film to put a Hispanic cast front and center.
Read: He’s ‘just Ken’ but will the ‘Barbie’ movie change his popularity?
But it also faced some tough luck, and not just in the unexpected staying power of “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer.” Southern California was bracing Sunday for Hurricane Hilary — potentially dampening ticket sales in the region. (Los Angeles was still its top market.) And like recent releases, “Blue Beetle,” which added $18 million internationally, didn’t have its cast available to promote the movie due to the ongoing actors strike.
Universal’s raunchy R-rated canine comedy “Strays” showed even less bite. The film, with a voice cast including Will Ferrell and Jamie Foxx, landed in fifth place with $8.4 million. Comedies have generally struggled in theaters in recent years, but “Strays” had it particularly rough given that its starry cast was unavailable.
“Strays” was very narrowly bested by “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem.” The Paramount Pictures animated release earned $8.4 million in its third weekend, bringing its domestic total to $88.1 million.
Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Comscore. Final domestic figures will be released Monday.
Read: Algeria bans 'Barbie' almost a month after movie's local release
1. “Blue Beetle,” $25.4 million.
2. “Barbie,” $21.5 million.
3. “Oppenheimer,” $10.6 million.
4. “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem,” $8.4 million.
5. “Strays,” $8.3 million.
6. “Meg 2: The Trench,” $6.7 million.
7. “Talk to Me,” $3.2 million.
8. “Haunted Mansion,” $3 million.
9. “Mission: Impossible — Dead Reckoning Part One,” $2.7 million.
10. “The Last Voyage of the Demeter,” $2.5 million.
Chorki to bring ‘Shurongo’ with extended Director’s Cut version
Afran Nisho starrer debut film 'Shurongo' is coming to the popular OTT platform Chorki in a new extended director's cut version.
This new version of 'Shurongo', which has conquered the cinema halls at home and abroad, will be seen on Charki on August 24 at 8 pm, which Chorki says is going to be a new gift for the cinema audience and an additional gain for the OTT audience.
Read: Sharey Showlo is full of suspense: Mamo
‘Shurongo’ was released on the day of this year’s Eid-ul-Azha, June 29, across several cinemas and multiplexes. Popular television actor Afran Nisho made his silver screen debut with this film directed by Raihan Rafi, jointly produced by Chorki and Alpha-i Studios Ltd.
The film also features Tama Mirza, Mostafa Monwar and Shahiduzzaman Selim in the lead roles, while Nusraat Faria performed in an item number which enthralled the audiences.
Regarding the OTT release of his debut film, Afran Nisho stated, "This film is the culmination of our (the Shurongo team) hard work, creativity, and team effort, and our moviegoers truly honoured us with love and admiration by witnessing our work in the theatres. For those who couldn’t obtain the chance to see the movie, now you can watch it on Chorki.”
Read: Tasnia Farin ties the knot with teenage sweetheart
Chorki CEO Redoan Rony said, “Although ‘Shurongo’ became a blockbuster and received applause from our moviegoers, a large number of Bengali-speaking viewers are yet to see the film; and they will be now able to watch the film through ‘Chorki’ with this extended version.”
Algeria bans 'Barbie' almost a month after movie's local release
The “Barbie” movie was pulled from theaters in Algeria this week almost one month after its release in the North African country.
Online news outlet 24H Algerie said Algeria's Ministry of Culture and Arts notified cinemas in Algiers, Oran and Constantine to “immediately” pull the movie.
Neither the ministry nor the Algerian Audiovisual Regulatory Authority commented on the reported directive or provided a rationale for it.
“Barbie” opened in some some Algerian cinemas last month. The film’s distributors removed the Hollywood blockbuster from their screening schedules starting this week..
The move comes after authorities in Kuwait and Lebanon banned the live action movie based on the American fashion dolls for allegedly threatening conservative values.
Some people in Algeria protested the cancellation on social media, posting their complaints along with the hashtag “#IAmBarbie.” Others denounced it as “censorship” and “bigotry."
“The ‘Barbie’ film ‘is a threat to morality,’ they say," writer Leila Belkacem posted on her Facebook page. "What morality are they talking about when the censors gorge on porn films at home? Aren’t you tired of dragging the country into your dark delusions?”
Read: He’s ‘just Ken’ but will the ‘Barbie’ movie change his popularity?
Fatima Ait Kaci, a retired teacher, told The Associated Press she had promised to take her two granddaughters, who were visiting from Canada, to see the movie. Ait Kaci said she heard what had happened to “Barbie” only when they arrived at the Riadh El Feth cinema in Algiers and discovered another film showing in the 3 p.m.-5 p.m. time slot.
Algerian authorities “don’t have the courage to take responsibility for this shameful act of censorship,” she said.
Last week, the Audiovisual Regulatory Authority announced its decision to “temporarily” suspend all programming by private TV channel Es Salam for allegedly broadcasting “in an irresponsible and unprofessional manner, a program containing scenes contrary to the precepts of Islam and the way of life of Algerian society.”
Read: Barbie: Interesting Facts to Know Before Watching the Movie
“Barbie” contains no overt sexuality or references to LGBTQ+ rights. But it seems to have drawn fire because of its sheer flamboyance and broad message of inclusion and gender equality in a region where homosexuality is widely seen as taboo.
The Warner Bros. film has grossed over $1 billion worldwide since it's release.
Read more: Barbie ‘biggest film of 2023’ in US and Canada, Warner Bros says
Don 3: Bollywood’s New Don Ranveer Singh Replaces Shah Rukh Khan
Don, the well-known anti-hero spanning two generations of Bollywood, is set to return to the production stage after an era. Created in 1978 by the renowned writer duo Javed Akhtar and Salim Khan, the character came to life through the legendary Amitabh Bachchan, famously known as Big B. Thanks to Bollywood King Shah Rukh Khan, the 2006 and 2011 installments propelled the character to soaring stardom. This time, in the upcoming film Don 3, Ranveer Singh will be taking over the reins. Let's get to know how this significant change is going to impact movie lovers.
Don 3: A New Era in the Don Franchise
On Wednesday, August 9th, the production company Excel Entertainment released the teaser for Don 3. Ranveer Singh's appearance as the new Don introduced an explosive approach to a new era in the franchise.
Excel Entertainment acquired the rights to the 1978 film titled "Don" and remade it in 2006. Following the success of the film, its sequel was released five years later. Now, after a twelve-year gap, the same producer and director are gearing up for the third installment.
Farhan Akhtar will be writing and directing the movie, produced by Ritesh Sidhwani. The film is currently in its early stages of production, with a target release date of 2025. The story has already been completed, and co-written by the director himself and Gayatri.
Read more: Upcoming Netflix Originals in September 2023
The musical trio Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy will continue to compose the film's music. The team, consisting of Shankar Mahadevan, Ehsaan Noorani, and Loy Mendonsa, is renowned for creating the iconic theme music of Don.
The most significant change will be in the casting. Just as the lead actor is changing, so is the female lead. However, the actress set to portray the character Roma has not yet been officially announced.
The 1978 version featured Zeenat Aman, while Priyanka Chopra delivered a standout performance in the remake and sequel. Although Kiara Advani has joined the Don 3 team, her role as Roma has not been confirmed yet.
The teaser has been promoted in theaters during "Gadar 2" and "OMG 2." Ranveer Singh will commence shooting for this film immediately after completing Sanjay Leela Bhansali's "Baiju Bawra". The production team is also weaving a grand plan for future Don movies in collaboration with Singh.
Read more: ‘Hero or villain?’ Shah Rukh Khan teases with new ‘Jawan’ poster
How the Role Went to Ranveer Singh from Shah Rukh Khan
During the Covid-19 pandemic, Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani engaged in several discussions with Shah Rukh Khan about the film. Unfortunately, King Khan expressed no interest in reprising this role. He has shifted his focus towards world-class commercial films. He aims to attract diverse audiences from various cultures. He intends to keep himself occupied with these types of movies, and he didn't find the Don movie aligns well with his vision.
To sustain the franchise's vitality, the team aimed to emphasize Don's evolution over time. Based on this vision, they chose to introduce a rising star. However, SRK, who recently completed "Dunki" and "Jawan," did not embrace the idea.
Bollywood superstar Alia Bhatt makes her Hollywood debut in Netflix's 'Heart of Stone'
Alia Bhatt had been weighing her Hollywood options for a few years. A popular star of Hindi films for over a decade with nearly 79 million Instagram followers, she'd been interested in making an English-language film, but nothing had been working out. Then Bhatt got word of a new action franchise led and produced by Gal Gadot and within a week of reading the script, the deal had closed. It was, she concluded, fate.
"Your first film chooses you," Bhatt said in an interview with The Associated Press in June. "Technically, this is my first English-language movie. It chose me and I'm so happy it did."
"Heart of Stone," a globe-trotting spy thriller co-starring Gadot and Jamie Dornan, debuts globally Friday on Netflix. Bhatt's role as a tech prodigy named Keya is one that's hard to describe without spoiling the twisty plot, but it's an important one. In India, the actor had grown accustomed to being a lead, but here she was happy to delve into a more supporting part — as long as it had substance to it.
In reading the script, she wanted to make sure that her character wasn't just there to fill a "South Asian" slot, and that she was involved in — and impacting — the storyline.
"The way I judge it is if you take the character out of the story and you still have a film, then that character's not important," Bhatt said.
But most of all, she was excited to be second to a woman who was also producing. Director Tom Harper called Bhatt a "formidable talent" and said that it was the dynamic between Keya and Gadot's character, Rachel Stone, that most excited him about the film.
"The two bounce off each other brilliantly and you get real electricity," Harper said. "Some of my favorite parts of the movie are when they riff off each other and the banter that they have."
Bhatt was struck by how similar Hollywood sets are to the ones she's spent a decade on in India — with the main difference being the hours. The days were shorter on "Heart of Stone," but so were the breaks. In India, she said, there would be an hour for lunch, 30 minutes for snacks and a later finish time.
She was also pregnant during the shoot and was tickled to see some of the things she "did" in the finished film (with the help of stunt doubles and digital effects).
"I'm like, 'Wow, I did that?'" she laughed. "I don't think so, but it looks like I did."
The release of "Heart of Stone" caps off what has been a banner year for the 30-year-old, in which she also welcomed her first child, attended her first Met Gala and was named the first Indian house ambassador for the luxury label Gucci. She had a small part in the Telugu-language action epic "RRR," which became an international sensation, and also has been making a name for herself as a producer.
The first film she produced, "Darlings," was a Netflix production as well, and the experience has been "challenging and scary and fruitful all at the same time."
Bhatt hails from a Bollywood family. Her father, Mahesh Bhatt, is a well-known filmmaker, and her mother, Soni Razdan, is a former actress. She made her debut in Karan Johar's teen drama "Student of the Year" in 2012, garnered accolades for playing a kidnapping victim in the drama "Highway," from 2014, and last year she married fellow Bollywood star Ranbir Kapoor.
"My parents from the very beginning have been very careful with the words of encouragement that they give me. … It helps when you grow up in a family that's seen the highs and the lows and seen everything in between," she said. "At the end of the day, my dad always says, you most definitely cannot be the first member of your own fan club. So, try to have a 10-foot distance from it all."
She doesn't have a grand plan for her future in Hollywood and does not see herself moving to the U.S., like her friend Priyanka Chopra Jonas.
"I think what Priyanka did was extremely brave and very different from what anyone has ever done. She's such an inspiration to every young girl from India that has that big dream to be a global icon and a global star," Bhatt said. "I don't think I could do that. I want to continue to do movies in India. And I want to be able to get these one-off, amazing international opportunities."
"I still don't know what I'm doing," she added. "It's just this one film and we'll see how it goes from here."
‘Hero or villain?’ Shah Rukh Khan teases with new ‘Jawan’ poster
Shah Rukh Khan has reminded fans that they still have to wait for a month till his movie “Jawan” addresses the question: Is he really the baddie in the film?
SRK shared a new poster of “Jawan”, featuring his bald appearance, with the caption: "Main achha hoon, ya bura hoon (am I good or am I bad)... You have 30 days to find out. Are you ready?"
Also read: Shah Rukh Khan: The making of a genuine Bollywood star
The king of Bollywood also included the hashtag #1MonthToJawan.
“Jawan” will be released in three languages on September 7: Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu.
Also read: The King is Back: Upcoming Movies of Shahrukh Khan in 2022, 2023Within minutes following Shah Rukh Khan's tweet, the comments thread exploded. "Readyyyyy," actor Dino Morea wrote. Actress Huma Qureshi sent out an emoji, NDTV reported.“The only actor who looks so good without hair,” a fan commented. “Bas ek mahina aur phir theatres me milenge aap se Khan sahib (just a month to go before we meet you in cinemas again),” posted another.
Also read: Shah Rukh Khan is back on social media!“Jawan”, directed by Atlee, features Nayanthara, Vijay Sethupathi, and Deepika Padukone in special appearances. The big draw, though, is Shah Rukh Khan, who was revealed to be grey, if not overtly dark, in a "prevue" teaser.Whether as a hero, a villain, or somewhere in between, Shah Rukh Khan's baldness is a smash hit.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are back, and perhaps better than ever
There are some good gags and clever innovations in the animated “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem,” but there is one brilliant idea: casting Ice Cube as the voice of the movie’s mutant insect supervillain Super Fly.
It might have once been hard to foresee the value of having the emcee who rapped of “dropping bombs on your moms” as the MVP of a PG-rated kids movie. But we’re now up to the seventh “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” film, not counting all the series and videogames. That’s a lot of movies for a bit of IP that’s clung more firmly to lunch boxes than it has to pop culture. For the turtles, it was getting to be time to either, as Ice Cube would say, “chickity-check yo’ self” or try something new.
“Mutant Mayhem,” which opens in theaters Wednesday, can’t entirely get over the feeling of trodding over well-covered turtle ground. But if we must go once more into the ooze, the film by director Jeff Rowe (co-director of “The Mitchells vs. the Machines” ) and co-written by co-producers Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, is probably the best of a not-so-stellar franchise. It’s certainly the one most invested with that “teenage” part of the turtles’ name. Plus, it’s got Ice Cube as a fly who quotes from the O’Jays.
Read: Barbie: Interesting Facts to Know Before Watching the Movie
The animation is vividly textured, the beat is persistently hip-hop (Lauryn Hill, De La Soul, Ol’ Dirty Bastard and others pack the electronic score by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross) and the New York of the film is impressively detailed. But the most important twist to this “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” iteration may be diving into the teenage-ness of its 15-year-old turtles.
If “Barbie” was balanced between Greta Gerwig’s childhood memories and her adult feminism, “Mutant Mayhem” gives itself over more fully to the mindset of adolescence. That’s in the gross-out humor and the comic book-like feel of the animation. But these are also recognizable teenagers who watch movies (“Ferris Bueller’s Day Off”), pine for concert tickets and make goofy phone videos of themselves slicing watermelons.
Read: Oppenheimer: 10 Fascinating Facts to Know Before Watching the Movie
What Donatello (Micah Abbey), Michelangelo (Shamon Brown Jr.), Leonardo (Nicolas Cantu) and Raphael (Brady Noon) really want is to fit in and go to high school like other teens. They have been relegated to the sewer ever since Splinter, a rat voiced by Jackie Chan, happened upon them after they were exposed as hatchlings to the same ooze that spawned Super Fly — who himself was the product of experiments by scientist Baxter Stockman (Giancarlo Esposito, fated to dubious laboratories).
Splinter has much the same opinion of the majority of the rats in “Ratatouille”: Humans can’t be trusted. (Splinter’s particular fear is that they will “milk” him.) So the turtles have grown up underground, a little like the homeschooled family of “The Wolfpack,” while yearning for the wider world.
They find a hint of it with a high-school journalist named April O’Neil (Ayo Edebiri), who wants to document, and thus prove to humankind, their decency. At the same, the turtles meet the charismatic Super Fly (voiced with bombastic aplomb by Ice Cube) and his band of mutants. At first, they’re fast-friends — “cousins,” Super Fly says — but the turtles then start hearing of Super Fly’s plans to turn all animals into mutants and eradicate the world of humans.
“Peoples, they got to go,” chimes one mutant.
Read: Hoichoi reveals ’Sharey Showlo’s' character looks
Some of the thunder of “Mutant Mayhem” has been stolen by “Into the Spider-Verse” and this year’s “Across the Spider-Verse” — films that likewise upend the typical look of studio animation and do it with a pulsing soundtrack; but they did it more eclectically.
Yet this “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles,” while a half shell of those films, has its own low-key charms. It’s goofier, grosser and mostly fun. The four turtles are never more than a hard-to-differentiate bale of overlapping dialogue of doubt and anxiety. But that first word in their name finally feels genuine. Seven films in, it’s only right that Donatello, Michelangelo, Leonardo and Raphael should get a renaissance.
“Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem,” a Paramount Pictures release, is rated PG by the Motion Picture Association for sequences of violence and action, language and impolite material. Running time: 99 minutes. Three stars out of four.