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Salahuddin Zaki, director of ‘Ghuddi’, passes away
Syed Salahuddin Zaki, renowned Bangladeshi filmmaker-screenwriter-author and a pioneer in the country’s movie industry, passed away on Monday night at the age of 77.
The Ekushey Padak and National Award winning filmmaker, widely revered for his critically acclaimed 1980 film “Ghuddi”, breathed his last while undergoing treatment at United Hospital in Dhaka, according to several sources.
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Nasir Uddin Yousuff, founder of Dhaka Theatre of which Zaki was a founding member, said that the eminent filmmaker was declared dead by the doctors at the hospital at 11:53 pm.
Decision regarding his burial is yet to be made after his son and daughter return to Bangladesh from Canada, according to the sources.
Celebrities and members of the country’s film fraternity, along with Zaki’s close acquaintances, have been sharing their grief and love for the renowned filmmaker on social media platforms as news of his death broke.
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Born on August 26, 1946, in Tangail, Syed Salahuddin Zaki’s maiden film “Ghuddi” – starring actors Raisul Islam Asad and Suborna Mustafa – was released in 1980.
The critically acclaimed film is still remembered for several of its songs composed by the late Lucky Akhand, including “Abar Elo Je Shondhya,” “Ke Bashi Bajay Re,” and “Ghum Ghum”.
Zaki went on to direct and produce several films including “Laal Benarasi” and “Aaina Bibir Pala”.
He also served at BFDC as the operative director and Bangladesh Television as its director general for five years.
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Zaki received the Bangladesh National Film Award for Best Dialogue for “Ghuddi” and was awarded the Ekushey Padak in 2021, the second highest civilian award in Bangladesh, for his contributions to the country’s film industry.
Famous Korean drama dubbed in Bengali to run on RTV
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and Bangladesh, the Korean Embassy has collaborated with RTV, one of the major broadcasting systems in Bangladesh.
"My Sassy Girl", a famous Korean drama, which was aired on Seoul Broadcasting System (SBS), one of the major entertainment broadcasting systems in Korea, will be broadcast on RTV from September 4 at 8:00 pm.
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The Bengali dubbed Korean drama ("My Sassy Girl") will be broadcast every Monday and Tuesday at 8:00 pm from September 4 through November this year.
The streaming of K-drama on a Bangladeshi channel is possible thanks to the support of KOREA COMMUNICATIONS AGENCY (KCA) and SBS to celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and Korea.
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The Embassy believes that this K-drama will resonate with Bangladeshi audiences and introduce them to the unique storytelling and vibrant characters of Korean content.
Which important ‘Friends’ character was almost recast?
The director of the globally popular sitcom 'Friends', James Burrows, claims that producers nearly recast a key character.In his new biography, "Directed By James Burrows," he says that actress Helen Baxendale, who played Ross’ wife Emily, was almost replaced.
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Baxendale's chemistry with Schwimmer wasn't always hilarious, he wrote, according to a CNN report.
“Schwimmer had no one to bounce off,” he wrote. “It was like clapping with one hand.”“In sitcoms and any type of romantic comedy, the funny is just as important as the chemistry. We discovered that any new girlfriend for Ross needed to be as funny as Rachel,” he said.Jennifer Aniston portrayed Rachel.
Also read: 10 Netflix English Originals releasing in August 2023Because of the show's tight schedules, recasting Emily proved tough, it said.“Often, you can’t recast, because of tight shooting deadlines or other logistical considerations,” Burrows wrote. “You need someone who gets laughs. Sometimes you start an arc and it ain’t working out, so you have to get rid of that person. If it’s a day player, it’s a quick goodbye.”Baxendale had a fairly long run on the show. Her character Emily was introduced in Season 4 and appeared in 14 episodes in all. Emily and Ross married in Season 5, but Ross said Rachel’s name during the vows by accident, as all fans worldwide remember.
Also read: 10 Most Anticipated Bangla Natoks to be Aired during Eid-ul-Azha 2023When Emily and Ross split up, Baxendale was dropped from the sitcom, the CNN report added.
World Wrestling Entertainment star Bray Wyatt dies at 36
World Wrestling Entertainment star Bray Wyatt died Thursday, WWE announced. He was 36.
Wyatt, whose real name was Windham Rotunda, died “unexpectedly,” according to an article on the WWE website that did not mention a cause of death.
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“WWE is saddened to learn that Windham Rotunda, also known as Bray Wyatt, passed away on Thursday, Aug. 24, at age 36,” WWE said. “WWE extends its condolences to Rotunda’s family, friends and fans.”
Wyatt, the 2017 WWE champion, was also known as “The Fiend.” His last televised performance came at the 2023 Royal Rumble.
“Known for his captivating performances and incredible in-ring presence, Wyatt was a defining superstar of his generation,” WWE said.
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Wyatt was the son of Mike and Stephanie Rotunda.
Wyatt’s grandfather Robert Deroy Windham (Blackjack Mulligan), father, and two of his uncles (Barry and Kendall Windham) all wrestled in WWE. His grandfather also played college football at UTEP and saw preseason action for the New York Jets.
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Wyatt redshirted on the Troy football team in 2007.
Upcoming Netflix Originals in September 2023
September is just some days away. For fans of Netflix, a new month means a host of new original shows and movies to binge-watch. September is going to be an exciting month, as it will see the end of several beloved shows as well as the start of new ones. Here’s a list of the most anticipated Netflix originals coming this September.
Best Netflix Originals Coming in September 2023
Disenchantment
Disenchantment brought the fictional medieval kingdom of Dreamland to life with its fantasy sitcom-style animation. The show was created by Matt Groening, the creator of The Simpsons and Futurama.
The story follows the lives of the adventurous and rebellious princess Bean, her demon friend Luci and their elf Elfo. Together, the trio explores the world of Disenchantment in search of uncovering conspiracy theories.
The show stars Abbi Jacobson, Eric André, and Nat Nixon in lead roles.
The fifth and final part of the show is set to premiere on September 1.
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Friday Night Plan
Friday Night Plan tells the story of the adventures (or misadventures) of two high school brothers on a fateful Friday Night. It’s a heartwarming tale of sibling camaraderie and the passion of young adult life.
The film is produced by Ritesh Sidhwani, Kassim Jagmagia & Farhan Akhtar and directed by Vatsal Neelakantan. It’s produced under the banner of Excel Entertainments with Netflix having the official distribution rights.
The up-and-coming cast includes Babil Khan, Aadhya Anand, Amrith Jayan, Medha Rana, and Ninad Kamat with Juhi Chawla Mehta in a special guest appearance.
Friday Night Plan premieres on September 1.
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Virgin River
Virgin River follows the story of Melinda. One day she answers an ad to become a nurse and midwife in the remote Californian town of Virgin River. What was initially an escape from the past and bad memories, soon takes an unexpected turn.
The series is produced by Reel World Management and is based on the best-selling Virgin River novels by Robyn Carr. It stars Alexandra Breckenridge, Martin Henderson, and Colin Lawrence in lead roles.
The series will be back for its fifth season on September 7.
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Kung Fu Panda: The Dragon Knight
The beloved Kung Fu Panda series is back with its third season. The series follows the story a few years after the premise of Kung Fu Panda 3 and the second season, The Paws of Destiny. This time, Po must leave home and wander on a journey to find the 4 elemental weapons. In his quest, Po is joined by an English Knight called Luthera, who also happens to be a brown bear.
Jack Black reprises the role of the much loved Po with Rita Ora, Chris Geere, and Della Saba in supporting roles. Mitch Watson and Peter Hastings also reprised their roles in the development of the new season.
Kung Fu Panda: The Dragon Knight will premiere on September 7.
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A Time Called You
A Time Called You is an upcoming South Korean time travel romance series. It is based on the novel Someday or One Day by Juang Tien-jen. The story follows the life of Jun-hee as she mourns the loss of her boyfriend, Yeon-jun in 2023. Somehow she teleports back to 1998 in the body of an 18-year-old Min-ju. What’s even more surprising is that in this timeline, she meets Si-heon who looks exactly like her deceased boyfriend.
The series is directed by Kim Jin-won and stars Ahn Hyo-seop, Jeon Yeo-be, and Kang Hoon in lead roles.
It is set to premiere on September 8.
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We are losing in the race to increase views in social media: Apu Biswas
Noted actress Apu Biswas on Sunday said that due to the competition of increasing views on social media, we have to subjected to various situations and the negative impact of cyber bullying has become very dire.
She came up with the remark after coming up from Detective Branch (DB) headquarters of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DB) in the city's Minto Road on Sunday afternoon.
Apu Biswas met Additional Commissioner and head of the DB Harun Or Rashid at his DB office and submitted a complaint related to cyber bullying.
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Talking to reporters after coming out from the DB office, Apu Biswas said that she is the director of the " Lal Saree' movie, which is a donation movie. A few days ago the movie "Suranga" was a victim of piracy. Then the team of the film makers of "Suranga" submitted a complaint to the DB office in this regard and after that the detectives brought those involved in piracy under the law.
The film actress said that she came to DB office to talk about the piracy of the film "Lal Saree". "You know that cyberbullying has increased a lot through social media. Cyber bullying is done in the hope of increasing viewers for no reason. And it hinders the normal life of people, which is not desirable at all. Because we all live with families."
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We have a position in society. We are actresses but at different times due to many news we have to face different situations, she added.
Apu also said, I have submitted a complaint for a fair investigation against cyber bullying. " I want to say one more thing, we artists go to different countries. We represent the country there. If this happens, our image is damaged, she said.
10 Netflix English Originals releasing in August 2023
In recent years, Netflix has become a powerhouse in the entertainment industry, producing and releasing a wide range of original content. Every month Netflix unveils an array of exciting English language originals, promising an unforgettable viewing experience. From gripping dramas to hilarious comedies and thrilling adventures, let’s take a look into Netflix's English original films and series releasing in August.
English Language Netflix Originals Coming in August 2023
Heartstopper (Season 2)
On August 3, Heartstopper season 2, directed by Euros Lyn, will grace the screen once again. This heartwarming, queer, British coming-of-age rom-com is based on Alice Oseman's popular graphic novel. Besides the main cast including Kit Connor, Joe Locke, Yasmin Finney, the show will introduce seven new faces in the latest season. Nick and Charlie are going to navigate their budding relationship, embark on a school trip to Paris, and face unforeseen challenges.
Mech Cadets (Season 1)
This animated sci-fi show, adapted from the Boom! Studios YA comic book series, is set to launch on August 10. The drama portrays a future plagued by an alien attack, where young teen Stanford Yu aspires to become a pilot for the Robo Mechs defending our planet. The audience will be captivated by the stellar voice talents of Daniel Dae Kim, Ming-Na Wen, Brandon Soo Hoo, and Debra Wilson. Directed by Tohru Patrick Awa, this thrilling series is a collaboration between BOOM! Studios and Polygon Pictures.
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Painkiller (Limited Series)
Prepare for a gripping exploration of the opioid crisis in the United States with "Painkiller”. This thought-provoking limited series, directed by Peter Berg, shines a light on the origins of the crisis through the eyes of perpetrators, victims, and truth-seekers.
Created by Micah Fitzerman-Blue and Noah Harpster, this six-episode drama is adapted from Patrick Radden Keefe's New Yorker article and Barry Meier's book, "Pain Killer: An Empire of Deceit and the Origin of America's Opioid Epidemic." Starring Uzo Aduba, Matthew Broderick, Sam Anderson, and Taylor Kitsch, "Painkiller" takes viewers on a compelling journey of revelation and accountability. Coming to Netflix on August 10, 2023.
Heart of Stone
Heart of Stone, directed by Tom Harper, is an American spy action thriller film that tells the story of international intelligence agent Rachel Stone. Tasked by the peacekeeping operation known as Charter, Stone must protect the mysterious MacGuffin called "The Heart" from enemy acquisition.
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The screenplay is written by Greg Rucka and Allison Schroeder, based on a story by Rucka. Starring Gal Gadot, Jamie Dornan, and Bollywood star Alia Bhatt, “Heart of Stone” is set to be released on August 11, 2023, by Netflix.
The Monkey King
Get ready for an extraordinary adventure as a brave monkey and his enchanted fighting stick join forces on a thrilling quest. Their journey takes them face-to-face with gods, demons, dragons, and the formidable foe lurking within Monkey's own ego. Stephanie Hsu, BD Wong, and Hoon Lee bring these captivating characters to life. Mark your calendars for the highly anticipated release on August 18, 2023. This exciting movie is directed by Anthony Stacchi.
10 Most Anticipated Bangla Natoks to be Aired during Eid-ul-Azha 2023
Eid-ul-Azha 2023 is on the horizon. The entire media industry has a lineup of entertaining spectacles ready for "Eid Dhamaka." TV ‘natok’ or drama enthusiasts are also looking forward to the upcoming dramas featuring their favorite stars. TV play makers and stars, in preparation for the release, are fueling the excitement by unveiling trailers in tantalizing installments. Despite a flood of romantic-comedy dramas on the big screen, the audience's interest in the TV natok remains unwavering. Let's explore which Bangla dramas are coming on Eid-ul-Azha 2023.
10 Most Hyped Bangla Dramas on 2023 Qurbani Eid
Gifted
Tasnia Farin is haunted by a recurring dream of a girl fleeing. Is she dreaming of herself? Is it a glimpse of the past or a glimpse into the future? The trailer is filled with enigmatic footage, shrouded in mystery.
Preeti Dutt, renowned for her captivating writing, brings together the beloved duo Tawsif Mahbub and Tasnia Farin under her script and direction. This drama will grace the screens of RTV on the 4th day of Eid at 7 pm. Additionally, viewers can indulge in the drama on the RTV Drama YouTube channel.
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Surprise
The groom discovered that his newlywed wife is none other than the twin sister of his lover. The surprise feels like the sky literally crashing down upon him. Sohail Rahman and Zainal Abedin have crafted the story with this twisted backdrop. Md. Mashrikul Alam has skillfully brought this story to life.
Ziaul Faruq Apurba, the acclaimed hero of the small screen, portrays the unfortunate groom. Sabila Nur, adapting to the story's needs, takes on a dual role. However, it would be a mistake to assume that this tale is solely a comedy from start to finish. The screenplay strikes a delicate balance. Viewers must keep their eyes glued to RTV to savor this extraordinary experience.
Last Night
Rakesh Basu, known for his seamless fusion of comedy, thriller, and mystery, presents a story where a photographer falls in love with a girl who visits his studio. Just as the story reaches its climax with a short-lived love affair, the photographer's secret identity is unveiled. But has he been acting all along? Or does another secret lurk beneath the surface?
Ziaul Faruq Apurba takes on the role of the photographer. The rising star Tanjim Saiyara Totini pairs with him in this drama. To unravel the true identity of the photographer, viewers must keep their eyes on the NTV screen.
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Newly Married
Mushfiq Farhan and Keya Payel, the busiest couple of the moment, grace the screen as a newly married duo. The transition from bachelorhood to married life is a seismic shock for every newlywed. This drama beautifully captures how they navigate the challenges.
Feeling the sudden weight of responsibility and the loss of freedom synonymous with single life is entirely normal. Director Mehedi Hasan Hridoy expertly presents the optional extent to which one can embrace these changes, all while infusing the narrative with humor. To witness the journey of this newly married couple toward happiness, keep your eyes on the RTV screen.
Fifty Fifty
Adnan falls head over heels in love at first sight. He's determined to marry the girl he adores with all his heart. However, a peculiar problem affects the girl.
Tanjin Tisha portrays this challenging role, while Tawsif Mahbub embodies the character of Adnan. Although the context appears thrilling, director Imraul Rafat masterfully blends comedy throughout the script. The drama will air on Deepta TV.
Read more: Netflix Originals in English Coming in June 2023
New details of ‘Squid Game’ season 2 revealed
Prepare yourselves, because everyone's favourite lethal game show is making a major comeback.Netflix has revealed exclusive new details for the second season of its breakout popular South Korean thriller series "Squid Game" as part of its Tudum Global Fan Event in Brazil, reports CNN.
Also read: 10 Netflix Originals Coming in April 2023The latest teaser for the second season of "Squid Game" revealed both returning and new cast members, including series protagonist Lee Jung-jae, who returns as cash-strapped everyman Seong Gi-hun, it said.The masked figure of "Front Man," played by Lee Byung-hun, and Wi Ha-jun, who portrays the cop in search of his missing brother who goes in over his head behind the scenes of the deadly game, will both return for season 2.
Also readTop 10 Upcoming English TV Shows on Netflix in February 2023: The series, which debuted in 2021 and has received six Primetime Emmy nominations, will also welcome new cast members Yim Si-wan, Kang Ha-neul, Park Sung-hoon, and Yang Dong-geun, said the report.
Also read: Eternally Confused and Eager for Love: Upcoming Netflix Original Indian Web Series in March 2022Season 2 of "Squid Game" did not have a release date as of yet.
English Originals Coming to Netflix in July 2023
Netflix, the worldwide popular streaming platform, has an exciting lineup of English language originals set to release in July 2023. The list includes few big-name blockbuster franchises along with new releases. From crime comedies to post-apocalyptic thrillers, viewers can expect a month filled with laughter, suspense, romance, and epic adventures as they dive into these highly anticipated releases.
10 Netflix English Originals Being Released in July 2023
The Out-Laws
The Out-Laws, directed by Tyler Spindel, is an upcoming American crime comedy film set to release on July 7, 2023, exclusively on Netflix. The film, produced by Adam Sandler, Adam DeVine, and Allen Covert, follows the story of a bank manager, Owen (Adam DeVine), whose bank is robbed by a notorious group of criminals known as the Ghost Bandits.
To Owen's surprise, he suspects that the criminals might be his future in-laws. The star-studded cast includes Adam DeVine, Pierce Brosnan, Ellen Barkin, Nina Dobrev, Michael Rooker, and more. With a humorous premise and talented ensemble, The Out-Laws promises an entertaining and comical crime caper.
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Bird Box Barcelona
Bird Box Barcelona, directed by Álex Pastor and David Pastor, is an upcoming film set to release on July 14, 2023, exclusively on Netflix. Serving as a spin-off from the 2018 post-apocalyptic horror film Bird Box, it follows the story of a father (Mario Casas) and his daughter (Naila Schuberth) as they navigate a dystopian future where looking at entities roaming the earth means certain death.
The film features an ensemble cast including Georgina Campbell, Diego Calva, and many more. With Nostromo Pictures producing the project, Bird Box Barcelona promises to deliver a gripping and suspenseful tale in the same universe as its predecessor.
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Beneath the Surface
Beneath the Surface is an exhilarating documentary directed by Laura McGann, set to release on Netflix on July 19, 2023. The film follows Alessia Zecchini, an Italian champion freediver, as she embarks on a daring quest to set a new world record in freediving. Descending to remarkable depths without scuba gear, Alessia enters what she calls the last quiet place on Earth.
With the constant danger of blackouts upon ascent, she relies on the assistance of safety diver Stephen Keenan, an adventurous Irishman who fell in love with the sport in Dahab, Egypt. As their fates become intertwined, Alessia and Stephen train together to conquer the challenging 85-foot-long tunnel located 184 feet below the Red Sea in Dahab's legendary Blue Hole.
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Supa Team 4
Supa Team 4 is an animated TV series set to release on Netflix on July 20. Created by Malenga Mulendema, the show follows the adventures of four teenage girls in the futuristic African city of Lusaka. When they are recruited by a retired secret agent, they become Supa Team 4, a group of undercover superheroes dedicated to saving the world on a budget.
Directed by Dave Osborne and featuring a talented voice cast including John Macmillan, Pamela Nomvete, and Nancy Sekhokoane, the series combines schoolgirl struggles with thrilling superhero action, offering an exciting and entertaining watch for viewers.
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They Cloned Tyrone
They Cloned Tyrone, directed by Juel Taylor, is a mystery action thriller set to release on July 21. The film follows an unlikely trio, portrayed by John Boyega, Jamie Foxx, and Teyonah Parris, who find themselves embroiled in a series of eerie events that lead them to uncover a nefarious government conspiracy.
With its suspenseful storyline, They Cloned Tyrone takes audiences on a thrilling caper that explores the dark secrets hidden beneath the surface. This film is not a sequel but promises to deliver an engaging and thrilling experience with its talented cast and gripping narrative.
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