United News of Bangladesh

Ajay Devgn’s comedy sequel Son of Sardaar 2, initially slated for release on July 25, 2025, has been pushed back to August 1 in hopes of securing more theatrical screens. However, the delay may not be enough to turn the tide. The unexpected breakout success of Mohit Suri’s Saiyaara—a romantic drama featuring newcomers Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda—has disrupted the box office landscape. Since its release on July 18, the film has grossed an impressive ₹266 crore in just 12 days, becoming the highest-earning Hindi film led by debutants. This strong performance has forced other films, including Son of Sardaar 2, to recalibrate their release strategies. Despite the date shift, Devgn’s film is still struggling to secure enough shows, especially in single-screen cinemas and smaller multiplex chains. Distributor PVRINOX had aimed to claim 60% of total Indian screens for the film, but reports suggest it may only receive around 35%. According to Pinkvilla, PVRINOX is lobbying for at least four daily shows at single screens. But many theatres are choosing to stick with Saiyaara and another surprise hit—Mahavatar Narsimha, an animated mythological feature from Hombale Films, the studio behind KGF and Kantara. Mahavatar Narsimha has pulled in ₹29.26 crore within its first five days and continues to perform strongly. To complicate matters further, Shazia Iqbal’s Dhadak 2—a reimagining of the 2018 hit Dhadak starring Siddhant Chaturvedi and Triptii Dimri—is also scheduled to release on August 1. Dharma Productions is taking a modest approach by opening the film on just 1,000 screens, with the potential to expand if it receives positive word of mouth. Both Son of Sardaar 2 and Dhadak 2 are offering 50% ticket discounts through select promo codes to draw audiences, but with Saiyaara still dominating and Mahavatar Narsimha holding firm, the road ahead remains challenging for these new entrants. Source: NDTV

After a successful seven-week run in the country’s multiplexes since its Eid-ul-Azha release, Tanim Noor-directed film 'Utshob' and Raihan Rafi-directed, Shakib Khan starrer 'Taandob' are all set for its digital premiere on popular Bangladeshi OTT platform Chorki. The platform announced on its verified Facebook page that viewers from both home and abroad will be able to stream 'Utshob' and 'Taandob' starting at 12:01 am on August 7 (midnight, August 6).   Known for the bold tagline “Not to be watched without family,” 'Utshob' brought viewers of all ages to cinema halls. Now, director Tanim Noor hopes the digital release will bring that festive feeling into every household. Speaking about the film’s journey, Tanim Noor said, “In my childhood, watching TV dramas and films with family was a tradition. With Utshob, I wanted to bring families back to theatres. Whether I succeeded is up to the audience, but their reactions have been heartwarming and inspiring.” South Indian Movies Launching in August 2025: 12 Must-watch Films Hitting Screens On the film’s OTT release, he added, “OTT has emerged as a new distribution channel for films. Chorki is a trusted platform for Bangla-speaking audiences worldwide. With this release, those in remote areas without cinemas and international viewers can finally watch 'Utshob'; and I hope they enjoy it at home with their families, just like in the old days.” Presented by BRAC Bank and powered by Edison Real Estate, 'Utshob' features a star-studded cast including Zahid Hasan, Jaya Ahsan, Aupee Karim, Chanchal Chowdhury, Afsana Mimi, Tariq Anam Khan, Azad Abul Kalam, Intekhab Dinar, Sunerah Binte Kamal, Soumya Jyoti, and Sadia Ayman. The story was developed by Tanim Noor, Ayman Asib Shadhin, Susmoy Sarkar, and Samiul Bhuiyan, while the screenplay and dialogues were written by Shadhin and Bhuiyan. Rashed Zaman worked as the director of photography. Meanwhile, the much-anticipated Taandob' - directed by Raihan Rafi - is produced by SVF Alpha-i Entertainment Limited in collaboration with Chorki, with production support from Deepto TV. The film features an ensemble cast including Afzal Hossain, Tariq Anam Khan, Fazlur Rahman Babu, Salauddin Lavlu, Gazi Rakayet, Shahiduzzaman Selim, Ashok Bepari, Dr Ejajul Islam, Rosey Siddiqui, Suman Anwar, A K Azad Setu, FS Nayeem, and Shiba Shanu. With both 'Utshob' and 'Taandob' premiering simultaneously, August 7 promises to be a landmark date for Bangladeshi OTT cinema lovers, according to Chorki.

Saiyaara wrapped up its first week with a staggering Rs 172.75 crore and continues its dream run into the second weekend. Directed by Mohit Suri, the film collected an impressive Rs 30 crore on its second Sunday, bringing its domestic total to Rs 247.25 crore. It has now become the second-highest-grossing film of the year, setting its sights on overtaking Vicky Kaushal’s Chhaava. Performance Overview According to Sacnilk, Saiyaara earned Rs 30 crore on Day 10 and Rs 56.5 crore overall during its second weekend. Released on July 18, the film benefited from a clear run at the box office, with no major Hindi releases up until July 25. Since its premiere, the film has consistently delivered double-digit earnings. First-week earnings closed at an impressive Rs 172.75 crore. Sunday’s turnout reinforced the film’s unstoppable momentum: Afternoon shows recorded 56.38% occupancy Evening shows rose to 63.46% Night shows maintained a strong 42.99% attendance Industry Buzz Film trade analyst Taran Adarsh shared his thoughts on Saiyaara’s second Saturday: "SPLENDID SATURDAY – 'SAIYAARA' REMAINS A MAJOR FORCE... Now eyeing the ₹300 crore mark after crossing ₹200 crore on its second Saturday. What's extraordinary: its second Saturday outperformed its first Saturday [₹26.25 crore] – a rare accomplishment these days. This blockbuster shows no signs of stopping!" About the Film Produced by Yash Raj Films, Saiyaara explores themes of love, loss, and emotional turmoil. The story follows Krish Kapoor (played by newcomer Ahaan Panday), a struggling musician, and Vaani Batra (played by Aneet Padda), a young writer grappling with early-onset Alzheimer’s. In Summary Saiyaara, Mohit Suri’s musical drama, is proving to be a record-breaking success at the box office. With only Chhaava left to surpass, the film is on track to become the year’s biggest hit. Source NDTV  

With Saiyaara, starring Ahaan Panday (Ananya Panday’s cousin), making a strong impact in cinemas, romance lovers are in for a heartfelt ride. Directed by Mohit Suri — known for portraying heartbreak with depth — and co-starring Aneet Padda, the film explores themes of passionate love, loss, and emotional turmoil. Its soulful music and powerful performances have resonated deeply with audiences. If Saiyaara left you emotional and reflective, here’s a curated list of 10 other romantic dramas on OTT platforms you shouldn’t miss. Fair warning: keep some tissues handy. 1. Aashiqui 2 – Prime Video (2013)Directed by Mohit Suri, this tragic love story between Rahul (Aditya Roy Kapur) and Arohi (Shraddha Kapoor) is heartbreaking yet calming. Their struggle to stay in love amid chaos, accompanied by a stirring soundtrack, will move you. 2. Rockstar – Zee5 (2011)Ranbir Kapoor’s portrayal of Jordan — a musician shaped by pain — and his stormy connection with Heer (Nargis Fakhri) reveals how love can liberate and destroy. 3. Raanjhanaa – Zee5 (2013)This film presents imperfect love through Kundan (Dhanush), who remains devoted to Zoya (Sonam Kapoor) even without reciprocation, eventually realizing love isn’t always about getting chosen. 4. Ae Dil Hai Mushkil – Prime Video (2016)Ranbir Kapoor’s Ayan and Anushka Sharma’s Alizeh navigate the ache of unreturned love. The film also celebrates deep friendship, echoing the belief that love and friendship are deeply entwined. Ahaan Panday's 'Saiyaara' emerges as ablockbuster, crosses Rs 150 crore mark 5. Laila Majnu – Netflix (2018)Qais (Avinash Tiwary) and Laila (Triptii Dimri) are trapped in a doomed love affair that explores longing, madness, and emotion. The soundtrack and performances are hauntingly beautiful. 6. Sadma – YouTube (1983)Starring Kamal Haasan and Sridevi, this unique tale shows Somu caring for Nehalata, who has mentally regressed. It’s a gentle, selfless romance with a final scene that’s unforgettable. 7. Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak – YouTube (1988)Aamir Khan and Juhi Chawla play Raj and Rashmi, two lovers fighting societal barriers. This film offers intense emotions, memorable songs, and strong dialogues in a tragic love tale. 8. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind – Netflix (2004)Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet shine in this poetic story about erasing painful memories of love, only to discover that emotional connection endures beyond memory. 9. Blue Valentine – Prime Video (2010)A raw and realistic depiction of love’s highs and lows, Ryan Gosling and Michelle Williams play a couple who fall in love deeply but struggle to hold on as life takes its toll. 10. The Notebook – Google Play (2004)Adapted from Nicholas Sparks’ novel, this classic stars Ryan Gosling and Rachael McAdams as Noah and Allie, lovers who drift apart and reunite, with a powerful subplot on Alzheimer’s disease. So, which film will you dive into next? Source: NDTV 

Saiyaara, marking the debut of Ahaan Panday, has firmly established itself as one of the biggest box office successes of the year. Directed by Mohit Suri and featuring two fresh faces, the musical drama collected Rs 21 crore on Wednesday alone, pushing its total earnings to Rs 153.25 crore. According to Sacnilk, the film saw a slight dip in earnings mid-week but maintained strong momentum, thanks in part to discounted ticket prices offered by several national cinema chains on Tuesday, July 22. The film actually saw greater footfall on Tuesday than on Monday, showcasing its growing popularity. Saiyaara made a stellar start with an impressive Rs 83 crore in its opening weekend, ranking it among the top five highest-grossing opening weekends of 2025. By its fourth day, the film had already crossed the Rs 100 crore milestone — a benchmark even Salman Khan’s much-anticipated Sikandar failed to reach this year. Adding to the intrigue is the fact that lead actors Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda did not participate in any pre-release promotions, sparking curiosity and buzz around the film’s organic success. Trade analyst Taran Adarsh praised the film’s box office performance, noting, “Tuesday’s collections exceeded Monday’s, which were already higher than Friday’s. Achieving such figures during a non-holiday weekend and working weekdays is commendable. While Tuesday's discounted pricing helped, the film’s momentum speaks for itself.” Salman Khan reportedly set to earn ₹120–150 crore for hosting Bigg Boss 19 About the FilmBacked by Yash Raj Films, Saiyaara is a poignant tale exploring themes of love, loss, and heartbreak. The story follows Krish Kapoor, a struggling musician played by Ahaan Panday, and Vaani Batra, portrayed by Aneet Padda, a young writer battling early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. OutlookWith strong word-of-mouth and consistent box office numbers, Saiyaara shows no signs of slowing down. Having already surpassed the Rs 150 crore mark within five days, the film is now well on track to cross the Rs 200 crore milestone soon. #With inputs from NDTV

James Gunn’s “Superman” continued to dominate the North American box office in its second weekend, raking in $57.3 million and retaining its No. 1 position, according to studio estimates released Sunday. The superhero film from Warner Bros. and DC Studios saw a 54% drop from its domestic opening, a standard decline for big summer releases. So far, “Superman” has grossed $406.8 million globally, an encouraging starts for a film seen as pivotal to DC’s cinematic reboot. “Superman” is expected to pave the way for DC Studios’ new 10-year plan under co-heads Gunn and Peter Safra. The studio’s future slate includes “Supergirl” and “Clayface,” scheduled for release in 2026. A major box office test waits next weekend with the launch of Marvel’s “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” by Walt Disney Co. Meanwhile, Universal’s Jurassic World: Rebirth came in second with $23.4 million in its third week. The Scarlett Johansson-starrer has already amassed $648 million worldwide. Release of son of Sardaar 2 pushed to Aug 1; Set for box office clash with Dhadak 2 Brad Pitt’s racing drama F1: The Movie, from Apple Studios and Warner Bros., earned $9.6 million domestically and $29.5 million overseas in its fourth weekend, pushing its global total to $460.8 million. Among new releases, Sony’s I Know What You Did Last Summer debuted with $13 million. Despite its franchise roots, the film received poor reviews (38% on Rotten Tomatoes) and a “C+” CinemaScore. Paramount’s Smurfs, featuring Rihanna as Smurfette, opened with $11 million domestically and $22.6 million internationally, facing negative critical reception. A24’s Eddington, a pandemic-era Western starring Joaquin Phoenix and Pedro Pascal, opened with $4.2 million and also received a “C+” CinemaScore. Despite some underperforming debuts, Comscore reports the 2025 summer box office is up 15.9% year-on-year, with $2.6 billion in domestic sales to date.

When it comes to Korean drama, every release feels like stepping into a world layered with unexpected turns. The August releases span a wide range: family tales, romances, fantasy, legal showdowns, and fast-paced action. Each title carries an unparalleled storyline laced with suspense, often leaving audiences marvelling at its depth. Let’s uncover the 10 Kdrama gems August 2025 has in store, each one worth watching closely. Top 10 Must-watch Korean Dramas Launching This August . Mary Kills People / Black Comedy / August 1, 2025 A bold remake of the 2017 Canadian series arrives under the same name, this time shaped by writer Lee Soo-ya and director Park Joon-woo. The medical thriller stars Lee Bo-young, Kang Ki-young, and Lee Min-ki. At its centre is a renowned doctor who clandestinely assists terminal patients in ending their lives. A determined detective picks up the trail, triggering a gripping psychological chase. The MBC TV project is produced by Mr Romance Co., Moving Pictures Co., and Studio Anseillen. Read more: South Indian Movies Launching in August 2025: 12 Must-watch Films Hitting Screens Beyond the Bar / Legal Drama / August 2, 2025 Netflix brings this original legal drama, written by Park Mi-hyun and directed by Kim Jae-hong. Jung Chae-yeon, Lee Jin-wook, Jeon Hye-bin, and Lee Hak-joo lead the cast. At Yeolim Law Firm, newcomer Hyo Min navigates legal challenges and social awkwardness. Guided by Seok Hoon, brilliant, yet distant, she steadily finds her footing. The drama series is bankrolled by SLL and B.A. Entertainment. Read more: August 2025 Bollywood Movies: Top 10 Must-watch Hindi Film Releases My Lovely Journey / Romantic Drama / August 2, 2025 From Big Ocean ENM comes a gentle journey based on Mahiro Harada's 2012 novel Welcome Back, Traveler. Scripted by Jung Hoe-hyun, the romantic series flourishes with Kang Sool as its director. Kim Jae-young, Gong Seung-yeon, and Yoo Jun-sang portray the major characters. The storyline follows former idol Kang Ha-tang, now a travel writer, as he curates life-changing trips for others. Through their stories, he slowly pieces together his own. Read more: Amazon Prime Originals Streaming Slate For August 2025: Exclusive Films and Series Love, Take Two / Family Drama / August 4, 2025 A 43-year-old single mother and her 23-year-old daughter, a medical student, find themselves starting over in rural Korea. What begins as an escape quickly turns into a lesson-filled journey as they meet eccentric neighbors and face comical mishaps. Leading this heartfelt tale are Yum Jung Ah, Choi Yoon Ji, Park Hae Joon, and Kim Min Kyu. Supporting roles are brought to life by Kim Sun Young, Yang Kyung Won, Kim Mi Kyung, Kang Ae Shim, Jung Young Joo, and Park Soo Young. Helmed by Yoo Je Won, ‘Love, Take Two’ excels with the rising talent Sung Woo Jin as the writer. Read more: Top 10 Netflix Originals Releasing in August 2025 Our Golden Days / Family Drama / August 9, 2025 A touching drama arrives under the direction of Kim Hyung-seok. Written by screenwriter So Hyun-kyung, the story bridges generational divides. It brings together older and younger characters as they learn to face shared sorrows and redefine the meaning of family. Jung In-sun, Jung Il-woo, Lee Tae-ran, and Chun Ho-jin anchor the cast with emotional depth. This drama is backed by Studio Coming Soon, Studio Bom, and Monster Union. Read more: Top 10 Hindi Films Releasing in Bollywood in July 2025

Bollywood actor Emraan Hashmi has acknowledged that his wife, Parveen, has had concerns about the intimate scenes he's performed on screen throughout his career. However, he says such scenes have become a trademark part of his roles and are something audiences have come to expect. In a past interview with Rediff, the actor—known for his roles in Murder, Zeher, Jannat, Gangster, and Raaz: The Mystery Continues—reflected on the long-standing "serial kisser" label associated with him. “I've realised that the serial kisser tag has become synonymous with me, and I'm not going to fight it,” he said. Recalling a humorous moment during a screening of his film Tum Mile, Emraan shared, “There was a scene where Soha (Ali Khan) and I were alone, and I didn’t kiss her. Someone sitting next to me said, ‘Was Emraan Hashmi sick in this film?’” The remark, though made in jest, reinforced how strongly the image had stuck with his audience. “It’s like Salman Khan not taking his shirt off—people feel something’s missing,” he added. According to Emraan, actors often carry symbolic traits that audiences come to expect. “Every actor has these signature things. For me, it's the kiss. It keeps the audience happy—and honestly, it’s more fun than taking off your shirt!” When asked about how his family reacts to his on-screen image, the actor revealed that while they may not always be comfortable with it, they understand the professional choices he's made. “My wife and father do have issues with the intimacy in my films, but they know it’s part of the job and helps sustain my career,” he said. On the work front, Emraan Hashmi was last seen in Ground Zero. Source NDTV

James Gunn has spoken candidly about the difficult decision to part ways with Henry Cavill as Superman, calling the situation “really unfair” and “a total bummer.” Appearing on the “Happy Sad Confused” podcast, the Superman director revealed the awkward timing around the transition at DC Studios. While it was publicly announced that Cavill would return as the Man of Steel, Gunn said the plan had already been finalised behind the scenes to reboot the character with a new actor, reports Variety. “The day our deal closed, all of a sudden, they were announcing that Henry was back,” Gunn recalled. “And I’m like, ‘What is going on?’ We know what the plan is. The plan was to come in and do Superman. So it was really unfair to him and a total bummer.” Gunn suggested the confusion stemmed from factions within the studio trying to “force” a different direction. CBS to cancel Stephen Colbert’s ‘Late Show’ in May 2026 “That was really unfortunate,” he said. “So Peter and I [thought] the right thing to do was to sit down with [Cavill] and talk to him. And we sat down and we talked to him. He was an absolute gentleman, a great guy about it. He said, ‘The only thing I ask is that I’m able to reveal it myself as opposed to it coming from you guys.’” When asked by host Josh Horowitz if Cavill might be cast in a different DCU role, Gunn replied, “Absolutely not,” indicating it wouldn’t be confusing at all. “I talked to him about it on that day. I would love to put Henry in something.” Cavill starred as Superman in three DC films between 2013 and 2017. David Corenswet has since taken over the role in Gunn’s DCU debut film Superman, which released on July 11. The cast also includes Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, and Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen, among others.

From the vibrant worlds of Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam cinema, South Indian movies stand out with genre-rich narratives and striking visual craft. The August lineup arrives with an exciting mix of action, thrillers, romance, comedy, sci-fi, and horror. Teasers and first-look promos have already stirred the crowd with powerful dialogues and stunning visuals. Let’s dive into the top 12 Pan-Indian movies set to make their mark on August 2025’s cinematic milestones. Top 12 South Indian Films Debuting This August . Mirai / Telugu Sci-Fi Thriller / August 1, 2025 A mythical energy pulses at the core of this sci-fi saga. A lone warrior carries the burden of protecting nine ancient scriptures. Each one holds the power to turn a mortal into a god. Karthik Gattamneni directs with visual flair from a screenplay he co-wrote with Manibabu Karanam. Jagapathi Babu, Shriya Saran, Jayaram, Manoj Kumar Manchu, and Teja Sajja portray the key characters. Read more: This week’s top 10 OTT and Theatrical releases: action, drama, comedy & more Every frame moves with the rhythm of Gowra Hari’s immersive score. Krithi Prasad and T.G. Vishwa Prasad handle the production under People Media Factory. Vibe / Telugu Romantic Action / August 15, 2025 Swaroop RSJ brings a gentle yet gripping tale to the screen. He also co-wrote the romantic film with Divya Narayanan. The heartfelt tale celebrates a friendship that refuses to break. It’s a bond that bends but never folds, no matter the storm. Harish Palakurthi and Shruti Sharma embody this quiet resilience with sincerity. This Swadharm Entertainment production excels with Rahul Yadav Nakka as its producer. Masood Khan (Part 1): The Rage / Telugu Horror / August 22, 2025 Long ago, the Shaithans lived in shadows—restless, greedy, never satisfied. Now, they walk among humans, their hunger unchanged. Masood Khan never asked to be a hero. But when fate drags him into these Jinns’ trap, he doesn’t flinch. Caught in a world ruled by ancient evil, he must fight to live, to rise, and to defy. Read more: August 2025 Bollywood Movies: Top 10 Must-watch Hindi Film Releases Produced by Ashoka Cinematic Universe, this horror movie flourishes with Ashoka as its director. Puja Sharma, Reddi Bhanu Prasad, and Sai Chandra carry the weight of this dark myth with bold performances. Surrender / Tamil Crime / August 1, 2025 This layered tale of law, power, and consequence is written and directed by Gowthaman Ganapathy. The crime movie plot is set five days before the polls, when tension simmers. What starts as routine duty turns into chaos for a police unit. On the other end, a gangster finds his world disrupted by the same election. Their paths cross, and nothing stays the same. Sujith Shanker, Lal, Padine Kumar, Mansoor Ali Khan, Munishkanth, and Tharshan Thiyagarajah assume the key roles. Read more: Amazon Prime Originals Streaming Slate For August 2025: Exclusive Films and Series The atmosphere is sharpened by Vikas Badisha’s brooding score. VRV Kumar produces under Upbeat Pictures. Vidupatta Kutrangal / Tamil Thriller / August 4, 2025 Helmed and penned by K. Muthu Kumar, this thriller boasts production by VSR Ajay and Umamakeshwari under VSR Creation. Set on a rural pulse, the movie revolves around a stranger and his cow who walk into a village with nothing but hope. One small incident turns that hope into hardship. In a place that’s not home, survival becomes the story. The pivotal cast comprises Mahana, VSR Ajay, Nizhalgal Ravi, Singampuli, and Birla Bose. Read more: Top 10 Netflix Originals Releasing in August 2025 Murali Krishnan’s music mirrors the land: raw, simple, and stirring. Coolie / Tamil Action / August 14, 2025 Starring Rajinikanth, this action movie thrives under the direction of Lokesh Kanagaraj. He co-wrote the screenplay along with Chandhru Anbazhagan. The narrative focuses on a man shaped by revenge who walks a path forged in fire. He’s waited years, held grudges, and now, he’s ready. The supporting cast members are Nagarjuna, Upendra, Sathyaraj, Shruti Haasan, and Reba Monica John. ‘Coolie’ features a surprise cameo of Aamir Khan, who reunites with Rajinikanth after three decades. This duo was last seen together in the 1995 movie ‘Aatank Hi Aatank’. Read more: Top 10 Hindi Films Releasing in Bollywood in July 2025 Furthermore, Pooja Hegde lights up the screen in a special song appearance. Anirudh Ravichander’s score pulses through each frame like a heartbeat. Kalanithi Maran’s Sun Pictures oversees the production.