United News of Bangladesh

On Friday, the nation commemorates the fifth death anniversary of Bangladesh’s iconic rock superstar, singer, guitarist, composer, and music director Ayub Bachchu. Unanimously revered as one of the most coveted rockstars in the country, Ayub Bachchu passed away on this day in 2018 at the age of 56 from a cardiac attack at his home in the capital’s Moghbazar. The legendary frontman and founding leader of the popular Bangladeshi rock band Love Runs Blind, popularly known as LRB, is being remembered and honoured on this day by his family, followers, friends, admirers, and media. Among the events, the Chittagong Musician's Club, Ayub Bachchu Foundation and friends-admirers of the beloved rock icon are set to organise a special ‘Dowa Mahfil’ at the Celebration Community Point in Moghbazar at 6:30 pm. Besides, fans and admirers of Ayub Bachchu are also commemorating the legend with commemorative events throughout the country. Born in Patiya at Khorna Union in Chittagong on August 16, 1962, to Mohammad Ishaque Chowdhury and Nurjahan Begum, Bachchu started his band LRB in his hometown, Chittagong, in 1991. Read: Rafiqul Alam’s new Liberation War song released in Ayub Bachchu’s composition Prior to that, Bachchu began his career as a musician with the band "Golden Boys" (later renamed "Ugly Boys"), which he co-founded with his childhood friend and renowned Bangladeshi singer Kumar Bishwajit. He also played an important role in other well-known Bangladeshi bands including Feelings and Souls. During his time with Feelings, he played with another contemporary rock icon of Bangladesh - James. With Bachchu being the frontman of LRB, the band performed more than thousands of concerts at home (500+ open-air & 2000+ indoor) and abroad. They went on their first international tour in the USA and they played in 7 states. In his lifetime, Ayub has created a total of 16 solo albums, a full-fledged studio-turned-production house named ‘AB Kitchen’, numerous super hit playbacks such as ‘‘Ammajaan’’, ‘’Sagorika”, “Ononto Prem”, “Ami to Preme Porini” and many other scores in Bangladeshi commercial movies. “Rupali Guitar,” “Cholo Bodle Jai,” “Ekhon Onek Raat,” “Koshto”, ‘‘Shei Tumi Keno Eto Ochena Hole,” ‘’Ferari Ei Monta Amar,” ‘’Ekdin Ghum Bhanga Shohore,’’ ‘‘Hashte Dekho Gaite Dekho’’ are some of his most iconic tracks with his beloved LRB. For his contribution to the country’s music industry, he received a record six Meril Prothom Alo Awards, one Citycell-Channel I Music Award with LRB and won the Bachsas Awards in the Best Male Vocal category in 2004. In 2017, he won the Tele Cine Lifetime Achievement Award. The rock legend was buried in Chaitanya Goli in Chittagong, beside his mother's grave.

As part of the celebrations for the 65th Anniversary of Alliance Française de Dhaka (AFD), a unique fusion pop concert presenting the fusion of Afro-Bangla pop sounds was held at the AFD courtyard on Thursday night. Renowned French musicians Bibi Tanga and Eric Kerridge alongside Bangladeshi music artists Mithun Chakra and Saad Chowdhury enthralled at the concert with their electrifying performances, showcasing a vibrant celebration of cross-cultural collaboration and musical innovation. Bibi Tanga, a renowned artist known for his eclectic mix of Afrobeat, funk, and soul, took the stage alongside two talented Bangladeshi pop artists. This fusion of Afro and Bangla pop sounds enamored music lovers through blending the rich rhythms and melodies of African and Bangladeshi music traditions. This concert is more than just a performance; it is a celebration of the cultural connections that music can forge across continents. By bringing together these diverse sounds, the concert reflects the spirit of Alliance Française de Dhaka - building bridges between cultures and fostering creativity through the universal language of music, according to AFD. The esteemed French educational and cultural institution is hosting a handful of engaging events recently, as part of its 65th anniversary in the country.

Renowned actor and freedom fighter Masud Parvez Sohel Rana, in a Facebook post on Wednesday, strongly criticised the interim government’s Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Adviser Nahid Islam’s statement on cancellation of eight national days. On his verified Facebook account, Sohel Rana wrote, “Brother Nahid, it is inappropriate for you to talk about the country and leaders of a time when you were not even born. Don't make us call you ignorant.” His post came after the comment of Nahid to the media regarding the interim government’s official announcement of the cancellation of eight national days, including March 7, which commemorates Sheikh Mujirbur Rahman's historic speech, and August 15, marking the assassination of Bangabandhu and his family. BSA to host three-day Lalon Festival starting tomorrow Stating that the ousted Awami League regime imposed several days on the citizens, adviser Nahid Islam said Bangladesh’s interim government did not recognise Sheikh Mujibur Rahman as the sole father of the nation. He made these comments in response to a question while talking to reporters at the Secretariat on Wednesday. As soon as the news spread, social media was flooded with reactions coming from people representing all walks of life, including actor-politician Sohel Rana. Actor Sohel Rana launches Bangladesh Justice Party In the comment box of that public post, famous stage actress and director Nuna Afroz commented, “How can 71, liberation war, Bangabandhu be erased by the people who were not born on the soil of this country! Who are they really?” In another post soon after that, Sohel Rana further wrote, “It was necessary to leave the scene after the March 7 speech. He wrote, 'YouTubers and Television (channels) are interviewing you. They should have left the place right after your statement about the 7th March speech.” Dhallywood’s one of the most popular ‘Golden Era’ actors and a famed politician throughout his life, Sohel Rana has recently launched his new political unit titled ‘Bangladesh Justice Party’ (‘Bangladesh Insaf Party’ in Bangla).   

Former One Direction singer Liam Payne, 31, whose chart-topping British boy band generated a global following of swooning fans, was found dead Wednesday after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, local officials said. Buenos Aires police said in a statement that Payne fell from the third floor of the Casa Sur Hotel in the trendy Palermo neighborhood of Argentina's capital, resulting in “extremely serious injuries.” Medics confirmed his death on the spot, the statement said. Pablo Policicchio, the communications director for the Buenos Aires Security Ministry, said in a statement to The Associated Press that Payne “had jumped from the balcony of his room.” Police rushed to the hotel in response to an emergency call just after 5 p.m. local time, he said, warning of an “aggressive man who could be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.” The hotel manager can be heard on a 911 call obtained by the AP saying they had "a guest who is overwhelmed with drugs and alcohol ... He’s destroying the entire room and, well, we need you to send someone, please.” The manager's voice became more anxious as the call went on, noting the room had a balcony. Alberto Crescenti, head of the state emergency medical system, told Argentina’s Todo Noticias TV channel that authorities were investigating the circumstances of his death and conducting an autopsy. Maggie Smith, a favourite among fans of 'Harry Potter' and ‘Downton Abbey,’ dies at 89 Payne had been vocal about struggling with alcoholism, posting a video in July 2023 to his YouTube channel where he said he had been sober for six months after receiving treatment. Representatives for Payne did not immediately return emails and calls. Dozens of One Direction fans flocked from across Buenos Aires to the Casa Sur Hotel after the news broke, forming lines that spilled into the cordoned-off street outside the hotel where police stood sentinel. Forensic investigators were seen exiting the hotel, from where Payne’s body was removed around three hours after the fall. Young women filming with their cellphones expressed shock and heartbreak as a makeshift memorial with rows of candles and bouquets quickly grew outside the hotel. “I didn’t think he was going to die so young,” 21-year-old Isabella Milesi told the AP. Payne was one of five members of One Direction, which formed when they each auditioned for the British singing competition series “The X Factor” in 2010, two years after Payne's first attempt to get on the show. At 16 the second time around, Payne sang Michael Bublé’s version of “Cry Me a River,” appearing nervous at the start but warming up with the audience’s cheers and applause. After each singer failed to make it through the competition as solo acts, Simon Cowell and his fellow judges combined Payne, Zayn Malik, Harry Styles, Niall Horan and Louis Tomlinson into what would become one of the most successful boy bands — even though they lost the competition. Each member had their own persona, with Payne — who hailed from Wolverhampton, a city in the West Midlands region of England — being known as the responsible one. The band became known for their pop sound and romantic hits like “What Makes You Beautiful,” “Night Changes” and “Story of My Life.” Payne had prominent solos on songs including “Stole My Heart” and “Change Your Ticket,” co-writing several of the band's hits. They had six Top 10 hits on the Billboard charts by the time they disbanded in 2016 and a highly loyal fan base, known as “Directioners,” many of whom were teen girls. Alberto Fujimori, a former president of Peru who was convicted for human rights abuses, dies at 86 “I’ve always loved One Direction since I was little,” said 18-year-old Juana Relh, another fan outside Payne’s hotel. “To see that he died and that there will never be another reunion of the boys is unbelievable, it kills me.” With his meteoric rise to fame, Payne had said that it took some time to adjust to the public eye. “I don’t think you can ever deal with that, it’s all a bit crazy for us to see that people get in that sort of state of mind about us and what we do,” he said in a 2013 interview with the AP after recounting an experience where a fan was in a state of shock upon meeting him. After the group's dissolution, Payne — like each of his erstwhile bandmates — pursued a solo career, shifting toward EDM and hip-hop. His 2017 single “Strip That Down,” featuring Quavo, reached the Billboard Top 10, and stayed on the charts for several months. He put out an album “LP1” in 2019, and his last release — a single called “Teardrops” — was released in March. Payne had a 7-year-old son, Bear Grey Payne, with his former girlfriend, the musician Cheryl who was known as Cheryl Cole when she performed with Girls Aloud. She was an “X Factor” judge during One Direction's season, although their relationship began years later. Payne was previously engaged to Maya Henry, from August 2020 to early 2022. Henry released a novel earlier this year that she said was based on their relationship. In addition to his son, he is survived by his parents, Geoff and Karen Payne, and his two older sisters, Ruth and Nicola.

Marking the 134th death anniversary of Bangladesh’s most revered philosophical figures and mystic poet Fakir Lalon Shah on October 17, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) is all set to host a three-day festival, starting from Thursday. A press conference detailing the event was held on Wednesday at 3 pm in the National Theatre Hall seminar room at BSA, where the academy briefed journalists about the festival. Director General of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy Dr Syed Jamil Ahmed, Secretary Salahuddin Ahmed, newly appointed directors and officers of various departments of the academy joined the press conference, where it was announced that the inauguration of the festival will be held tomorrow at 6 pm at the National Theater Hall Auditorium. BSA gets six new departmental directors Sharmin Murshid, Adviser to the Ministry of Social Welfare and Women and Child Affairs, will inaugurate the first day's program titled 'Ashasindhu Teerey', which will be chaired by Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy Director General Syed Jamil Ahmed. BSA Fine Arts Director Mustafa Zaman will deliver the welcome speech, while artists Arup Rahi and Zahura Fakirani will share songs and thoughts, influenced by Lalon's ideology. The second day (Friday, October 18) will feature the Sadhumela "Manush Bhojle Shonar Manush Hobi" at the academy's Nandan Mancha at 6 pm. Dr Syed Jamil Ahmed will chair the event, while Mehjabeen Rahman, Director of BSA's Music, Dance, and Recitation Department, will deliver the welcoming remarks. Saturday, October 19, will be the festival's third day, featuring a two-part event. The first session will begin at 4 pm in the National Theatre Hall's seminar room with a discussion titled "Jatisottar Prosno Ebong Baul-Fakir Poribeshonar Rajniti" (The Question of National Identity and the Politics of Baul-Fakir Performance), and the keynote presentation will be presented by Rajshahi University professor and researcher Dr A Al Mamun. BSA hosts art, music, dance and film appreciation courses The event will be presided over by Dr Syed Jamil Ahmed, and the welcoming address will be delivered by Abdul Halim Chanchal, Director of BSA's Production Department, while the discussion will be joined by notable speakers including Dr Mohammad Azam, Director General of Bangla Academy; journalist-writer and Director General of the Press Institute of Bangladesh (PIB) Faruk Wasif, and Dr Shahman Moishan, dramatist and associate professor at Dhaka University. The second part of the ceremony will start at 7 pm at the National Theatre Hall auditorium featuring a special Lalon memorial seminar titled ‘Dhoro Manush Rup Nehare’. Dr Asif Nazrul, Adviser to the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, will deliver the keynote speech at the event, while BSA Production Department Director Abdul Halim Chanchal will deliver the welcoming address. Dr Syed Jamil Ahmed will preside over the seminar, which will also be joined by journalist-fiction writer and newly appointed Managing Director and Chief Editor of the Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) Mahbub Morshed as a discussant. The event will also feature enthralling cultural performances by renowned artists. Detailing the three-day event, BSA Director General Dr Jamil said that the cost of the three-day event will be displayed on the academy website. He requested the cooperation of journalists in promoting the festival. Besides, the Director General highlighted the implementation of three goals in Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy - bringing back administrative transparency, financial transparency and efficiency. BSA welcomes Falgun in style, bids farewell to the Pitha Ustab  The three-day Lalon Festival will be open to general visitors at the venue based on immediate registration. Dr Jamil also hoped that through this festival, the cultural stagnation in the capital would be reduced and Lalon's non-communal philosophy would spread among all, including the young generation.

Amazon Prime Video, a great global OTT platform, elevates entertainment with its signature blend of captivating and diverse storytelling. Like every month, the November 2024 lineup of Amazon Prime brings a fresh mix of romance, thriller, comedy, and adventure genres. Insightful documentaries and humorous shows pair with an array of exclusive shows and films, adding to the excitement. Let’s dive into this month's must-watch releases. 10 Must-see Amazon Prime Originals Premiering This November Freedom | Romantic Thriller | November 1, 2024 Written by Christophe Deslandes and Melanie Laurent, this French movie thrives under the direction of Melanie Laurent. Produced by Alain Goldman, the thriller movie is inspired by the real-life saga of a notorious French gangster who ruled the underworld in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The story centers on Bruno Sulak, a charismatic criminal reminiscent of Arsène Lupin, known for orchestrating audacious heists without ever firing a shot. The strong cast is completed by Lucas Bravo, Lea Luce Busato, Yvan Attal, Radivoje Bukvic, Steve Tientcheu, David Murgia, Leo Chalie, and Slimane Dazi. Read more: Netflix’s October 2024 Korean Releases: Films, Series, and Shows Citadel (Honey Bunny) | Spy-Action Thriller | November 7, 2024 A spin-off to Citadel, another Prime original, this TV series was created by Raj & DK, who co-wrote and directed it with Sita Menon. This Hindi action series is an Indian version of the globally acclaimed drama about the clashes between international spies. Starring Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Varun Dhawan as the title characters, the spy series features a supporting cast that includes Emma Canning, Simran Bagga, and Kay Kay Menon. The production credit goes to Anthony Russo, Joe Russo, Mike Larocca, Angela Russo-Otstot, Scott Nemes, David Weil, and Raj & DK. Read more: Amazon Prime Originals Releasing in October 2024: Films, Series, and Reality Shows Every Minute Counts | Disaster Drama | November 8, 2024 Based on a catastrophic earthquake in 1985 in Mexico City, this disaster film excels with Jorge Michel Grau as the showrunner, director, and screenwriter. Moises Urquidi and Fernando Urdapilleta accompanied Grau in the direction. Victoria Orvananos, Alfredo Felix-Diaz, Natalia Quevedo, Venancio Villalobos, and Alejandro Valenzuela contributed to the screenplay along with Grau. The plot intertwines the lives of a doctor with a hidden past, a fame-seeking journalist, and a troubled family. All of them risk everything in rescue missions that offer them a chance at redemption. Traziende Films production shapes the film starring Osvaldo Benavides, Jesus Zavala, Maya Zapata, Oswaldo Rada, Jorge Leon, Antonio de la Vega, and Enrique Arreola. German Cocaine Cowboy | True Crime | November 10, 2024 This four-part documentary series chronicles Hamburg gangster Joe Marx’s rise to power within the infamous Cali cartel during the 1990s. Read more: October 2024 Bollywood Release Lineup: Top 10 Hindi Movies to Watch The German mini-series flourishes with Georg Tschurtschenthaler and Christian Beetz as its producers with Tschurtschenthaler as its showrunner. Besides writing the screenplay with Ina Kessebohm, Peter Dorfler directed the crime series. The cast includes Philipp Boos, Claude Albert Heinrich, Niklas Bruhn, Carmen Molinar, and Anne Roemeth. Cross | Crime Thriller | November 14, 2024 Based on James Patterson’s novel series ‘Alex Cross’, this thriller series boasts Ben Watkins as the creator and showrunner. The crime series follows Alex Cross, a detective and forensic psychologist, as well as a devoted father. He relentlessly pursues both killers and victims which drives him to unearth hidden truths and bring justice to those affected. Read more: Must-watch South Indian Films Releasing in October 2024 ‘Cross’ stars Aldis Hodge, Juanita Jennings, and Isaiah Mustafa, supported by Sharon Taylor, Ryan Eggold, Alona Tal, and Eloise Mumford. Aldis Hodge and Chris Agoston jointly produced this crime series.

Acclaimed Indian filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali recently opened up about his first encounter with Bollywood star Deepika Padukone, sharing his admiration for the actress's beauty and voice. Bhansali, known for his opulent and artistic films, expressed that he was left stunned by Padukone's presence during their initial meeting. The celebrated director shared his thoughts in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter. Recounting the moment, he said, “When I met Deepika for the first time at her house, she opened the door, and I was frozen by the beauty of the woman, by her eyes. I realised that there was so much subtlety, so much fragility, and so much beauty. She started talking, and I was equally struck by her beautiful voice.” India’s ‘Laapataa Ladies’ Sets Sights on Oscar for Best International Feature Film Bhansali added, “At that moment, I felt like I was in the right place at the right time. I knew this girl would be moulded, would be taken somewhere. It’s an instinctive feeling—your soul has to connect to their soul.” This profound connection between the filmmaker and the actress led to a fruitful professional relationship. The two first collaborated on the 2013 blockbuster Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela, which also starred Ranveer Singh, Richa Chadha, and Sharad Kelkar in pivotal roles. Since then, Bhansali and Padukone have worked together on several critically acclaimed projects, including Bajirao Mastani and Padmaavat, cementing their status as one of the most iconic director-actor duos in the industry. Deepika Padukone, who has consistently been praised for her performances in Bhansali's films, will next be seen in Singham Again, directed by Rohit Shetty and featuring Ajay Devgn in the lead role. September 2024 Amazon Prime Originals List: Exclusive Shows, Films, and Series The film is scheduled for release this Diwali, adding yet another anticipated title to Padukone’s illustrious career. Bhansali's recollection of his first meeting with Padukone offers a glimpse into the mutual respect and admiration that has defined their professional relationship, making their collaborations all the more impactful and memorable for audiences.

Ratan Tata, the revered industrialist and philanthropist, passed away at Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital on Wednesday night at the age of 86, following a prolonged illness. Tata’s death marks the end of an era for Indian business, given his far-reaching impact on the industry and society at large. Despite his towering stature in the corporate world, Tata chose to remain a bachelor throughout his life. Although he was honoured with numerous accolades, including the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian award, he never married, a decision influenced by circumstances and timing rather than preference. In a candid interview on the iconic talk show Rendezvous With Simi Garewal, Tata revealed that he had come close to marriage on multiple occasions. Indian industrial Icon Ratan Tata passes away Reflecting on his life, he admitted that he had fallen in love four times but none of these relationships culminated in marriage. The reason, he shared, was often his overwhelming professional commitments, which took precedence over his personal life. While he sometimes felt lonely, he also appreciated the freedom that came with being single. Interestingly, Tata was also in a relationship with Simi Garewal herself, a fact that she acknowledged in a 2011 interview. Their relationship, however, did not lead to marriage. In a conversation with Humans of Bombay, Tata reminisced about his first love, which blossomed while he was living in Los Angeles. He recalled how he came very close to tying the knot, but fate intervened when he had to return to India to visit his ailing grandmother, whom he hadn’t seen in nearly seven years. Although he hoped his partner would eventually join him in India, the turbulent geopolitical climate at the time—exacerbated by the 1962 Indo-China war—led her parents to dissuade her from moving, putting an end to their relationship. Ratan Tata’s mortal remains will be laid at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) in Nariman Point, Mumbai, on Thursday, where the public can pay their respects. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has announced that Tata will be accorded a state funeral in honour of his monumental contributions to the nation.

Netflix continues to set the bar for streaming entertainment, offering a dynamic blend of genres that keep audiences hooked. From heartwarming romance to gripping thrillers, fantasy adventures, and laugh-out-loud comedies, November 2024's lineup promises something for every viewer. With the return of fan-favorite series and the debut of captivating new films, this month's Netflix originals are packed with star power, unexpected twists, and compelling storytelling. Here are the 10 English-language Netflix originals leading the watchlist in November 2024. Netflix’s Top 10 English-Language Offerings for this November Meet Me Next Christmas | Romantic-Comedy | November 6, 2024 Produced by Mark Roberts under the banner of Roberts Media, this Christmas movie boasts Rusty Cundieff as the director. Written by Camilla Rubis and Molly Haldeman, the storyline follows a woman in New York City during Christmas, desperate to attend a sold-out concert on Christmas Eve. Christina Milian takes center stage in the romantic movie featuring a supporting cast including Devale Ellis, Kofi Siriboe, and Kalen Allen. The additional cast includes the music group Pentatonix with its vocalists Mitch Grassi, Scott Hoying, Kirstin Maldonado, Kevin Olusola, and Matt Sallee. Read more: Amazon Prime Originals Releasing in October 2024: Films, Series, and Reality Shows Outer Banks: Season 4 (Part 2) | Teen Adventure | November 7, 2024 Set in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, this TV series is brought to fruition by creators and executive producers Shannon Burke, Josh Pate, and Jonas Pate. This adventure series explores the rivalry between two groups of teenagers as they embark on a quest for a legendary lost treasure. This season uncovers the mysteries surrounding Big John’s disappearance. The next chapter begins as the Pogues escape the deserted island, only to find themselves entangled in an even more dangerous pursuit of El Dorado. Chase Stokes, Carlacia Grant, Madelyn Cline, Rudy Pankow, Madison Bailey, Jonathan Daviss, Austin North, and Drew Starkey are ready to revive their beloved roles from previous seasons. The fresh addition to the cast will be J. Anthony Crane, Pollyanna McIntosh, Brianna Brown, Mia Challis, and Rigo Sanchez. Read more: October 2024 Bollywood Release Lineup: Top 10 Hindi Movies to Watch Hot Frosty | Romantic-Comedy | November 13, 2024 Directed by Jerry Ciccoritti, this fantasy film highlights the creative writing of Russell Hainline. This comedy movie stars Lacey Chabert, Katy Mixon, Dustin Milligan, Lauren Holly, Craig Robinson, Chrishell Stause, and Joe Lo Truglio in key roles. The plot centers on a widow who, in her battle against loneliness, brings a magical snowman to life. As their bond deepens in the days leading up to the holidays, the specter of his inevitable melting looms over their enchanting friendship. The rom-com makes its way to the OTT (Over-The-Top) courtesy of producers Joel S. Rice and Michael Barbuto. Sprint: Season 2 | Sports Docuseries | November 13, 2024 Created by World Athletics and bankrolled by Box to Box Films, this documentary series has James Gay-Rees and Paul Martin as its executive producers. Read more: Must-watch South Indian Films Releasing in October 2024 The second season features Noah Lyles, Gabby Thomas, Fred Kerley, Julien Alfred, Kishane Thompson, Letsile Tebogo, Twanisha Terry, Melissa Jefferson, Marcell Jacobs, Shericka Jackson, Oblique Seville, and Kenny Bednarek. They compete at the highest level of their sport at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, where only the elite rise to the occasion. The latest edition of the docuseries delves into the grit required to achieve personal bests on the world stage and return to relentless training in pursuit of continued dominance on the track. Cobra Kai: Season 6 (Part 2) | Martial Arts | November 15, 2024 As a direct sequel to the original Karate Kid films, this series reunites Daniel LaRusso and Johnny Lawrence over 30 years later in a modern-day setting. In this chapter of the sixth and final season, long-awaited revelations and unexpected twists will come to light. With Cobra Kai defeated in the Valley, senseis and students face the pivotal choice of whether and how they will enter the Sekai Taikai, the prestigious world karate championships. Meanwhile, John Kreese, the ruthless founder of Cobra Kai, is back in action after faking his death and escaping prison. Read more: Netflix English Originals Coming in October 2024: 10 Most-hyped Releases The action drama series stars Ralph Macchio and William Zabka in the lead roles. The supporting roles are played by Martin Kove, Courtney Henggeler, Xolo Mariduena, Tanner Buchanan, Mary Mouser, Peyton List, Jacob Bertrand, Dallas Dupree Young, and Vanessa Rubio. The martial arts movie thrives with the creators Josh Heald, Jon Hurwitz, and Hayden Schlossberg. The executive production team includes Schlossberg, along with Will Smith, James Lassiter, Caleeb Pinkett, Susan Ekins, and actors William Zabka and Ralph Macchio.

Bangladesh has officially selected award-winning 'Boli' (The Wrestler) to compete in the 'Best International Feature Film Category' at the 97th Oscars. Boli is the first Bangladeshi film that has achieved prestigious accolade at the Busan International Film Festival last year.  The film, directed by Iqbal Hossain Chowdhury, was unanimously selected on October 1 by the seven-member Oscar Bangladesh Committee led by eminent director Matin Rahman, to represent Bangladesh under the 'Best International Feature Film' category at the 97th Oscars, scheduled to be held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, United States in March next year. Produced by Piplu R Khan, Saiful Azim and Gausul Alam Shaon, the National Film Award winning actor Nasir Uddin Khan-starrer film is made as a homage to the traditional 'Boli game of Jobbar' ('Jobbar er Boli Khela') in Chottagram, a local wrestling game and a long-standing cultural tradition in the country. Featuring a group of exceptionally talented stage artistes from Chottagram and Dhaka including AKM Itmam, Priyam Archi, Angel Noor, Tahadil Ahmed and more, the story of 'Boli' revolves around an elderly, rugged fisherman from a remote coastal village of Banshkhali in Chattogram, played by Nasir, who challenges a Boli (local wrestling champion) to a match as he looks to reestablish his position in the society. Production of the film took place in the coastal areas of Chattogram during April and May of 2022. Chhayanaut commemorates Rabindranath Tagore with cultural tribute A recipient of the Bangladesh Government’s film grant for the fiscal year 2020-21, 'Boli' jointly received the best award under the 'New Currents' category at the 28th Busan International Film Festival, South Korea last year, which is considered the largest and most influential film festival in Asia and one of the top prestigious festivals in the world. It has also been screened at this year's Shanghai International Film Festival in China. Interestingly, 'Boli' has yet to be released in the country's theaters, but it qualifies for the Oscars under a newly added clause introduced by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which has updated the eligibility criteria for Best Picture and international submissions. Films can now be submitted as the Oscars even if they have not had a theatrical distribution in their home country, as long as they meet specific criteria for the worldwide screenings. The film recently had its theatrical release in Canada.