Cinema
Oppenheimer: 10 Fascinating Facts to Know Before Watching the Movie
The much-anticipated release of "Oppenheimer" took place on July 21, 2023. Directed by renowned filmmaker Christopher Nolan, the movie sheds light on the remarkable physicist Julius Robert Oppenheimer, famously known as the “Father of the Atomic Bomb”. This cinematic masterpiece promises to be a gripping and thought-provoking exploration of Oppenheimer's genius, his pivotal role in the Manhattan Project, and the profound moral dilemmas he faced during a critical juncture in human history. As you gear up to watch the film, let's explore some intriguing and lesser-known facts about the remarkable man behind the title.
Father of the Atomic Bomb
Julius Robert Oppenheimer, also known as the "Father of the Atomic Bomb," was a true wonder, a fifth element, who reshaped the course of history. Driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge, a strong sense of social responsibility, and an unwavering dedication to scientific exploration, Oppenheimer left an indelible mark on the world, leaving us pondering the mysteries of the universe. Oppenheimer followed his curiosity wherever it led, leaving an indelible imprint on the 20th century. He is both the hero and the villain of his story, with a life transcending the boundaries of science and politics.
Interesting Facts to Know about the Physicist Oppenheimer Before You Watch the Movie
A Quintessential Historical Figure
Born on April 22, 1904, Oppenheimer emerged as one of the most influential figures in the world. In the words of Christopher Nolan: "Oppenheimer was the most important person who ever lived in human history." Such high praise from the esteemed filmmaker attests to Oppenheimer's profound impact on the world and the filmmaker. Nolan's film, "Oppenheimer," based on the book "American Prometheus," delves into the life of this enigmatic figure and the monumental Trinity test.
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A Film with a Subjective Narrative
"Oppenheimer," deemed Christopher Nolan's most ambitious film to date, revolves around the events leading up to the first atomic bomb test on July 6, 1945, seen through the eyes of Oppenheimer himself. Nolan and his team have emphasized the film's subjective narrative in interviews, aiming to offer a unique perspective on Oppenheimer's life. Therefore, exploring the critical events of Oppenheimer's journey can remarkably enrich your movie-watching experience.
Affinity for Sanskrit and Hinduism
The world associates the Holy Bhagavad Gita’s famous verse, “I am become death, the destroyer of worlds,” with Oppenheimer. After the successful detonation of the Trinity bomb, Oppenheimer found solace in these lines from the Gita, expressing his inner emotional turmoil. While not a devout follower of Hinduism, Oppenheimer often expressed deep admiration and reverence for Hinduism, its literature, and especially Sanskrit.
Oppenheimer's fascination with Sanskrit began during his undergraduate years at Harvard University, where he explored various languages, including Sanskrit. The language's ancient history, intricate grammar, and profound philosophical texts captivated him. His study of Sanskrit became a gateway for him to explore the philosophical depths of Hinduism. His affinity for Hindu philosophy extended beyond academia, encompassing various aspects like cosmic cycles, interconnectedness of all life, and the nature of existence.
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Top 12 South Indian Films Being Released in August 2023
As we go into a scorching August, the South Indian film industry is all set to dazzle audiences with an enthralling array of cinematic marvels. The Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada films releasing in August 2023 will likely leave a lasting impact on the hearts of the fans. Let's take a closer look at the most anticipated South Indian films coming next month.
12 Best South Indian Movies Releasing in August 2023
Most-hyped Tamil Movies for August 2023
Jailer / August 10, 2023
This is nothing but a rollercoaster ride into the world of action comedy, masterfully penned and directed by Nelson. Jailer is a tale of rescue, rebellion, and redemption, all enmeshed in a web of humour and action.
Produced by Kalanithi Maran of Sun Pictures, this cinematic spectacle boasts a star-studded ensemble, spearheaded by the legendary Rajinikanth. The supporting actors are Mohanlal, Ajith Kumar, Tamannaah Bhatia, Shiva Rajkumar, Jackie Shroff, Ramya Krishnan, and Mirnaa Menon.
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Iraivan / August 25, 2023
This captivating dramedy is the result of the directorial and writing prowess of I Ahmed. Sudhan Sundaram and G. Jayaram under the banner of Passion Studios produced the film. It stars Jayam Ravi and Nayanthara in the lead roles, accompanied by Lachu Gram in a prominent supporting role.
In the film’s enigmatic plot, a man sets out on a mission seeking revenge, fueled by a burning rage that drives him into the heart of darkness. As the narrative unfolds, the tale of love, vengeance, and redemption entwines into a tapestry of emotions.
Thupparivaalan 2 / August 12, 2023
Vishal takes the reins not only as the lead but also as the director of this sequel to Thupparivaalan, the 2017 film directed by Mysskin.
Loosely inspired by the legendary fictional detective, Sherlock Holmes, and his confidant John Watson, Mysskin's creation comes to life through Vishal's work. His portrayal of Kaniyan Poongundran is a detective with unparalleled observational and deduction skills. He was supported by Prasanna, Rahman, Munna Simon, and Adithya Menon.
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Behind the scenes, Vishal himself orchestrates the production, ensuring that every frame resonates with the story.
Most Anticipated Malayalam Movies for August 2023
King of Kotha / August 24, 2023
This adrenaline-pumping film was directed by Abhilash Joshiy as his directorial debut. Produced by Wayfarer Films and Zee Studios, this action-packed thriller stars Dulquer Salmaan in the lead role. Alongside him, the movie stars an ensemble cast of Prasanna, Shabeer Kallarakkal, Gokul Suresh, Nyla Usha, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Anikha Surendran, and Shammi Thilakan.
Amidst heart-racing action, the tale of a man torn between his inherited legacy and his yearning for a different life unfolds. Love finds its way into the dark alleys, as epitomised by the charming encounter between Tony and Tara.
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Olam / August 4, 2023
Under the direction of VS Abhilash, the movie features Arjun Ashokan in the lead role. Lenaa, The female lead, also proves her prowess as the scriptwriter. Olam enthrals with an eclectic supporting cast including Noby Marcose, Binu Appu, Harisree Ashokan, and Chandra Menon.
The film’s gripping plot follows a man's quest to see his friend. But fate has something else in store when a mysterious and vibrant woman enters his life, altering the course of events forever.
Naufal Punathil on behalf of Punathil Productions produced the film.
Kannur Squad / August 25, 2023
Directed by debutant cinematographer Roby Varghese Raj, this action-packed venture marks Mammootty Kampany's fourth production. Penned by the talented duo, Muhammad Shafi and Rony David Raj, this film promises an electrifying cinematic experience.
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Kannur Squad sets out to catch the culprits and unearth the secrets that remain in the shadows. The stellar cast, featuring Mammootty, Resh Lamba, Rony David, Shebin Benson, Shabareesh Varma, Deepak Parambol, and N.P. Nisa, drives the narrative forward.
Barbie ‘biggest film of 2023’ in US and Canada, Warner Bros says
“Barbie” has become the “year's biggest movie” in the United States and Canada, according to the film’s distributor Warner Bros.
The movie generated an estimated $155 million in its first weekend, according to the distributor, reports BBC.
Also read: Barbie movie: Their life in plastic looks fantastic
Meanwhile, Universal Pictures said that “Oppenheimer”, which was also released on Friday, grossed $93.7 million in the United States.
The films arrive at a time when cinemas in general are faltering as a result of streaming competition.
Meanwhile, in the United Kingdom, Vue said both films contributed to the cinema chain's busiest weekend in four years.
Vue, which operates 91 theatres throughout the UK and Ireland, had its best weekend in four years and the second best weekend in history in terms of admissions, with filmmaker Greta Gerwig's “Barbie” set to be the largest film of 2023, surpassing “Super Mario Bros”, said the report.
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The narrative of “Oppenheimer”, starring Cillian Murphy and directed by Christopher Nolan, is about the building of the first atomic bomb.
Meanwhile, “Barbie” delivers a children's character's coming-of-age narrative in which she explores her personality and helps pal Ken to develop uniqueness.
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Both films were released on Friday, and the rivalry between them was dubbed "Barbenheimer" on social media.
Jaya to play Srijit's 'Dasham Avatar' along with a bunch of stars
A few months ago, there were rumors that popular actress Jaya Ahsan will be seen in West Bengal’s director Srijit Mukherji's film again. Those rumors are going to come true. Jaya will be seen in Srijit's “Dasham Avatar”.
A bunch of Kolkata stars including Prosenjit Chatterjee, Rupam Islam, Anirban Bhattacharya, Anupam Roy, Jisshu Sengupta and Indradeep Dasgupta will play the film.
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Jaya confirmed the news by posting several photos of the logo launch ceremony of the name of the film on her verified Facebook page. Jaya is seen with all the famous stars of West Bengal in the photos.
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On the other hand, Srijit told Kolkata media that there are many reasons to cast Jaya. First, she can give time. She also has acting skills and her performances over the last few years was considered, he said.
Also read: Is Jaya Ahsan making her debut in Hindi cinema?
Barbie movie: Their life in plastic looks fantastic
For someone who's 11.5 inches tall and weighs under 8 ounces, poor Barbie's had to carry an awfully heavy load over the years on that slender, plastic back of hers.
Welcomed as a trailblazer in 1959 — An adult doll! With actual breasts! — she was nonetheless branded an anti-feminist a decade later when women's rights marchers chanted "I Am Not a Barbie Doll," referring to her unrealistic body type (and perhaps ignoring the fact that she was single, a homeowner and a career woman).
As years went by, Barbie had her hits (adopting a more inclusive body type, running for president) and misses (exclaiming "Math class is TOUGH!" — ouch). Through it all, this lightning rod in tiny pink heels remained uniquely talented at reinventing herself.
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Which is why it makes sense that now, writer-director Greta Gerwig takes Barbie in more than one direction – in every direction, really – in her brash, clever, idea-packed (if ultimately TOO packed) and most of all, eye-poppingly lovely "Barbie," the brand's first live action movie.
Is it a celebratory homage to Barbie and her history? Yes. Also a cutting critique, and biting satire? Yes, too. The film is co-produced by Mattel, and they must have felt skittish about some elements — perhaps not Will Ferrell's reliably buffoonish Mattel CEO, but a far more serious scene where a young girl accuses Barbie of making girls feel bad about themselves. The movie's also about gender dynamics, mothers and daughters, insidious sexism ... and more.
But the neatest trick is how "Barbie," starring a pitch-perfect Margot Robbie — and after a minute you'll never be able to imagine anyone else doing it — can simultaneously and smoothly both mock and admire its source material. Gerwig deftly threads that needle, even if the film sags in its second half under the weight of its many ideas and some less-than-developed character arcs.
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In any case, boy — or should we say, girl — life in plastic looks fantastic.
A head-spinning opening credits sequence begins with a Barbie history lesson, narrated by Helen Mirren. Then it's off to Barbie Land, where Barbie lives in her flamingo-pink Dreamhouse, surrounded by other Barbies in theirs.
Other Barbies? Well, we know how many Barbie versions exist on store shelves, and Gerwig and her writing (and life) partner Noah Baumbach take this one step further: If they're all Barbies, that means "Barbie" is all of THEM. There's no one Barbie — although Robbie, who plays Stereotypical Barbie (and also produced the film), is the focal point.
And every day's perfect for Stereotypical Barbie, who wakes in her heart-shaped bed, waves to neighbor Barbies, and heads to the shower, which is dry (there's no actual water, wind, sun or gravity in Barbie Land.) Her day's outfit awaits, perhaps a Chanel number, protected by shiny plastic as in a Barbie box. Then she swoops down her hot pink slide to the pool-with-no-water. The sky above is painted blue, the mountains purple. Gerwig was inspired by old soundstage musicals. Architectural Digest even did a piece on the house.
Equally stunning is "Beach" — a place, and also the name of Ken's career. (Sorry Ken, we should have mentioned you before the 11th paragraph, but we had so much to say about Barbie). The beach is also apparently where Ken lives, because, have you ever heard of Ken's house? In any case, a very blond Ryan Gosling gleefully chews the scenery — or, inhales it — and is never better than when conveying Ken's forced enthusiasm with an edge of desperation plus a sprinkle of menace. Also, when dancing.
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Speaking of dancing, one night at Barbie's "giant blowout party," she suddenly starts thinking about … death. The next morning she has bad breath, and OMG, her famously arched feet go flat! Also gravity happens, so she falls off her house.
After consulting with Weird Barbie (Kate McKinnon — who else?) Barbie heads to LA to solve a tear in the boundary between Real World and Barbie Land, singing the Indigo Girls' "Closer to Fine," her signature road song. (The film's high-powered soundtrack features Dua Lipa, Nicki Minaj, HAIM, Lizzo, Billie Eilish, and many others.) There, she and Ken encounter a world with a wrinkle: Men have the upper hand. No all-female Supreme Court here! Hmm, thinks Ken.
On the run from Mattel, Barbie encounters Gloria (America Ferrera), mother of tween Sasha, who has mixed feelings about Barbie, not to mention Mom. In her spare time, Gloria sketches ideas for new Barbies — as in Thoughts of Impending Death Barbie (not to be confused with Depression Barbie.) Gloria helps rescue Barbie and also proves of crucial help when they later discover that Ken and the other Kens — Simu Liu, Kingsley Ben-Adir and others — are up to no good.
There's so much more, and we're over our word limit — which may just be the feeling Gerwig had when trying to fit her ideas under two hours. And all her actors: It would've been great to see more Issa Rae as President Barbie, Emerald Fennell as pregnant, discontinued Midge, and Michael Cera as Allan-who-can-wear-Ken's-clothes. In any case, the snappy pace starts to lag.
Not to discount Ferrera's eloquent monologue, in which Gloria educates newly conscious Barbie about the landmines women face trying to navigate social rules that don't seem to apply to men, like how to be a mom and also a professional, the need to be "thin" but call it "healthy," and other things.
And if, Gloria concludes, all this is true for a doll just trying to represent a woman ... what does that mean for the rest of us? Which is, perhaps, the essential Barbie dilemma — she's always been judged by rather impossible standards.
Nevertheless, she persists. All 11.5 inches of her. And now she's Movie Star Barbie.
"Barbie," a Warner Bros. Pictures release, has been rated PG-13 "for suggestive references and brief language." Running time: 114 minutes. Three stars out of four.
Three national award-winning actors coming together in Puja telefilm
Dhaka, Jul 18 (UNB) - As the Puja seasons are coming closer, the entertainment industry is gearing up to showcase multiple television and OTT content - among which, an upcoming telefilm will feature three national award-winning actors sharing the screen together.
The telefilm, titled "Protima Bisarjan," directed and written by Liton Karim, features the talented trio of Shatabdi Wadud, Jayraj, and journalist-actor Ahmed Sabbir Romeo.
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Shatabdi Wadud received a national award in 2011 for his outstanding performance in the film "Guerilla," while Jayraj was honored with a national award in 2022 for his role in "Lal Moroger Jhuti," and Ahmed Sabbir Romeo secured the top position as a child artist in the 1980s for his remarkable acting skills at the national level.
The plot of the drama revolves around the story of the village known as Kumar Para. In this village, almost everyone earns their livelihood by crafting clay products. Naren resides there with his two children, Nitai and Nimai (played by Jayraj and Akam Hassan), who have gained a reputation as skilled artisans in their community.
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Although Dayaram Babu, the former landlord of the area, no longer holds his zamindari, he is still respected by the locals. Dayaram Babu, portrayed by Shatabdi Wadud, has a daughter named Chandramukhi (Setu). Nimai, Naren's son, secretly harbors feelings for Chandramukhi but is unable to express them due to his disadvantaged background.
The story takes an intriguing turn when Dayaram Babu decides to organize the Lakshmi Puja at his house for the first time after his wife's passing. It has been several years since the puja was last celebrated in their household. Nimai, known for his exceptional idol-making skills, is entrusted with the responsibility of crafting the idol of Goddess Lakshmi.
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However, Nimai unintentionally creates a statue of Chandramukhi instead of the intended deity. This incident triggers chaos within the village, leading to a series of events.
The shooting of the drama has recently concluded in Rajbari Pangsha Kumarpara, according to the makers of the telefilms.
END/UNB/MIH/ssk
"Mission: Impossible" sequel tops North American box office
"Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One" topped the North American box office, bringing in 56.2 million U.S. dollars in its opening weekend and 80 million dollars in five days, data from the measurement firm Comscore showed on Sunday.
Directed by Christopher McQuarrie, the seventh of Paramount and Skydance's spy action film franchise carries a hefty 290-million-dollar price tag.
Why is the Barbie movie banned in Vietnam?
The film presently enjoys positive reception from the audience, according to ratings on Rotten Tomatoes and poll results from CinemaScore, a market research firm.
Overseas, the film took in additional 155 million dollars from nearly 70 international markets for a total of 235 million dollars worldwide, including around 26 million dollars from the Chinese mainland.
Flash actor Ezra Miller 'grateful' after harassment order lifted
‘Female 3’ shatters records with unprecedented viewership
Following the immense success of the previous instalments, "Female" and "Female 2," Director Kajal Arefin Ome has crafted "Female 3" to coincide with the Eid-Ul-Adha festival."Female 3" premiered on the Bongo YouTube channel on the 4th day of Eid. The drama earned 5 million views within 24 hours setting a new record as no other production on the YouTube channel has ever achieved such a viewership in such a short span of time, said a press release.Similar to its predecessors, "Female 3" showcases the exceptional acting skills of popular actors such as Mishu Sabbir, Ziaul Hoque Polash, Marzuk Russel, Chashi Alam, Sharaf Ahmed Jibon, Saidur Rahman Pavel, Musafire Syed Bacchu, Schumonn Patwary, Lamima Lam, Shimul Sharma, Arfan Mridha Shiblu, and many others, the release reads.Kajal Arefin Ome's debut web series, "Hotel Relax," was released on Bongo during Eid-Ul-Fitr and garnered significant popularity, breaking the record for the highest number of subscriptions on the platform. Recently, "Hotel Relax" achieved yet another impressive milestone by accumulating 5 crore paid minute views.
‘Surongo’ to hit theatres in Saudi Arabia
Amidst the success of Bangladeshi films in theatres across the country on the festive occasion of Eid-ul-Azha, makers of Afran Nisho’s debut feature film ‘Surongo’ have said that the film is all set to make its global release across different continents.
However, a particular country being on that list sparked interest among film enthusiasts, as this is reportedly the first time a Bangladeshi film will hit theatres in Saudi Arabia.
On Monday (July 03, 2023), the film’s lead actors Afran Nisho and Tama Mirza, director Raihan Rafi, Chorki CEO Redoan Rony and Alpha-i Managing Director Shahriar Shakil addressed several issues regarding the film, including the global release details, to journalists during a press briefing at Star Cineplex in SKS Tower, Mohakhali, Dhaka.
Why is the Barbie movie banned in Vietnam?
Addressing the media, Shahriar Shakil said, “As part of our global release, ‘Surongo’ will be released in seven countries in the Middle East in phases. This is most probably the first Bangladeshi movie to be released in Saudi Arabia, a country which has a great fanbase of Nisho among the expat Bangladeshi community.”
“We have also finalised Surongo's release in the United States, Canada, and Australia as well. It will be released on July 7 in six cities, including Melbourne, Canberra, Sydney, and Darwin in Australia, and then on July 21 in New York, USA, and Canada. Then will be released in other states across the US from July 28,” Shakil added.
At the press briefing, the makers of ‘Surongo’ informed that the film is slated to be released by India's Shree Venkatesh Films (SVF) under import-export policy.
Dhallywood eyes a festive Eid as movies become the talk of the town again
SVF is one of the film conglomerates in India, and Surongo has already been sent to the Indian censor board for approval. If the film gets approved, it will be released across India on a large scale, makers of the film said.
In the Middle East, ‘Surongo’ is scheduled to be released with Arabic subtitles, they added.
Released on the day of Eid-ul-Azha, ‘Surongo’ has been successfully running at multiplexes and single-screen movie theatres across the country.
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Flash actor Ezra Miller 'grateful' after harassment order lifted
Actor Ezra Miller says they are "grateful" that a temporary harassment order filed by the mother of a 12-year-old has been lifted.
Last year, the “Flash” actor was issued a harassment prevention order after the woman accused him of inappropriate behaviour, reports BBC.
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Although Miller “made mistakes” at times, these were “false allegations,” according to the actor's lawyer.
It was an “egregious misuse of the protective order system,” Miller said.
According to the Daily Beast, the order was issued after Miller yelled at the child's adult family members and neighbours, as well as other behaviour that made the child uncomfortable, such as paying them undue attention.
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Miller's lawyer said during a court hearing on Friday, the actor was “never alone with the child and never interacted with the child outside of two brief encounters which occurred in the presence of several other adults.”
It was one of several claims and legal troubles that the actor has encountered in the last 18 months. Miller, who uses the pronouns they/them, began treatment for “complex mental health issues” in August of last year, the report also said.
The actor’s lawyer also said, “Ezra does not deny that in the midst of their struggle that they have made mistakes and behaved at times in ways they wish they could take back.
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“That, however, does not make every allegation, rumour, or false accusation true. There are real world consequences when claims like these are heedlessly amplified, without any regard for the facts or the truth.
“These false allegations, fanned by unscrupulous media, have threatened Ezra's recovery, and done terrible damage to their reputation and career.”
In a statement on Instagram, Miller wrote: “I'm encouraged by today's outcome and very grateful at this moment to everyone who has stood beside me and sought to ensure that this egregious misuse of the protective order system was halted.”
“On a personal note, I want everyone to know that I am continuing to do my best to preserve my own wellness and what I can to reverse the collateral damage this ordeal has brought upon me and those close to me.”
Miller starred in the DC Comics superhero film “The Flash,” which was released recently. Its North American box office take of less than $100 million in three weeks is usually viewed as a failure, the report concluded.