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Srikanth review: Rao is braille-ant!

SrikanthCast ( voices): Rajkummar Rao, Jyothika, Sharad KelkarDirectors: Tushar HiranandaniRating: 3/5 Up until this film’s half-time, I felt I could’ve simply google-searched this biopic. Only, I wouldn’t find actor Rajkummar Rao in it. That is, Rao, playing a visually impaired Srikanth Bolla, on whose life this engaging, eponymous corporate film is based—linearly detailing a series of professional milestones, that made Bolla go from a poor boy in Machilipatnam, to MIT in Boston; eventually setting up an industry that employed other visually impaired. Making him an icon of sorts. Fit enough for a Bollywood biopic. Like several such that already exist, and will continue to. It’s not that the achievements are minor. They’re frickin’ something else! Consider a math-geek, into sport, who made it to the Indian team for blind cricket—hitting some sort of a world record at baseball in the US—after becoming an agent of change in law, back home in India. Wherein the visually impaired weren’t even allowed to pursue science in college. Not that it’s my concern, at the moment, as an audience, to fact-check each feat. It’s just that there are so many Wikipedia entries to film, that there isn’t enough time to ever pause, and take stock of the man behind those moments. You’ve got to remain alert to them yourself. For instance, the opening scenes, where you must wonder, if parents would really kill off an infant, if they turn up blind into the world? Bolla’s folks nearly did. Or that bit, when Bolla gets kicked out of blind school, because he rats on the authorities. He’s on the street, getting chased down by a stray dog. For all the animal-lovers’ virtue-signalling defense of strays, who deserve a better space themselves—one seldom worries about how they could affect the vulnerable, such as kids, homeless, and the disabled, on streets. Rao’s helpless lead character is shattered, broken—lifted up by a Good Samaritan teacher (Jyotihka), who takes him under her wings. He flies abroad. This is a very special human bond. Just glossed over, however, in pursuit of the next life-event to suitably report on the baller life of Bolla—a long-distance love-interest (Alaya F), helpful business partner (Sharad Kelkar), the ex-Prez APJ Abdul Kalam… This is why nothing emotionally sticks. Until the final few minutes of the film, for sure. What are the GOAT movies you can instantly recall, where the protagonist is visually impaired? Let me go first. Undoubtedly, Naseeruddin Shah in Sparsh (1980). Remember the restaurant outburst scene from that Sai Paranjpye film? Likewise, you can’t erase from memory, Al Pacino’s “hoo haa” refrain, besides zipping down New York streets in a car, or the chilling courtroom sequence, from Martin Brest’s Scent Of A Woman (1992)? That’s what this movie, on occasion, lacks—staging of memorable drama. Too lazily structured that it is, around covering scenes, and there are far too many to register, or ever reflect on. I’m going home with the trivia that Nagpur’s Haldiram sponsored Bolla’s education abroad. Gonna to buy an extra pack of bhujia, just for that! Speaking of courtroom scenes, there’s one in Srikanth as well. A college principal denies him science education because, the gent argues, the boy can’t read regular books. Wouldn’t that be true for books on humanities, too? Is that why the visually impaired had, per force, remained blind to college-level science, thus far? And that Bolla became the first such international student to enroll at MIT? Well, that’s what google searches are for, if you have the time, or are suitably inclined. I’d rather stick to this movie, directed by Tushar Hiranandani. First encountered Hiranandani’s work as a writer, along with his partner Milap Zaveri, when they scripted, among several movies thereafter, Masti (2004), which was such a mast-watch. As against the franchise that followed. As director, Zaveri (Satyameva Jayate, Marjaavaan) went on to attempt blockbusters that test bounds of reality. This is Hiranandani’s third biopic. The last one, Scam 2003 (series on Sony LIV), was a totally unironic, dull take on the life of well-known stamp-paper crook, Abdul Karim Telgi. The first, Saand Ki Aankh (2019), was based on two female Tomar sharpshooters, made famous already, through Aamir Khan’s talk-show, Satyamev Jayate. Furthering the tribute, the song Papa kehte hain from Aamir’s Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak (1988) is this movie’s recurring background score. Srikanth works best of the lot, because I’d never heard this eye-opening account, until this movie. There is a gentle element of surprise, rather than recognition. It could work just as well on TV/OTT. Unlike the last Hindi biopic we watched, Imtiaz Ali’s Chamkila (2024; on Netflix), that plays so beautifully with form and structure, it deserved the big screen; no less. This one is centred, foremost, on Rao’s phenomenal performance. That’s what draws you in, and keeps you there—watching the lead actor convincingly immerse himself in a part, that you never wish for the party to end. I know love is blind; so is justice, etc. Talent certainly isn’t. You should be able to sense Rao’s brilliance, even on braille.

10 May,2024 11:17 PM IST | Mumbai | Mayank Shekhar
Aamir Khan celebrates 25 years of Sarfarosh

Is Sarfarosh 2 ft. Aamir Khan happening? Here's what Mr Perfectionist has to say

Aamir Khan and the team of 'Sarfarosh' gathered under one roof to celebrate the grand 25th anniversary, which was a massive extravaganza. From the team members of the film to eminent celebrities from the entertainment world, the screening was a starry affair. While it was an event of the day, it also witnessed a grand announcement that Aamir Khan made about 'Sarfarosh 2.' The special screening of 'Sarfarosh' was held at PVR Juhu in Mumbai. The screening was a profound nostalgic trip for the fans and the team members. Aamir Khan was also seen interacting with the media where he made a massive announcement about 'Sarfarosh 2.' While speaking about 'Sarfarosh 2,' Aamir Khan said, "I can commit to one thing, that we will definitely give it a really serious shot now of coming up with the right script and the right kind of film for it. So John, you will have to get to work here." Further to this, he added, "Sarfarosh 2 banni chaiye (Sarfarosh 2 should be made), even I feel that." Well, this screening was definitely a special one, as after so long, the audience got to watch Aamir Khan's 'Sarfarosh,' which was one of his finest performances. Moreover, the announcement of 'Sarfarosh 2' indeed made it even more special. Sarfarosh Synopsis: In ‘Sarfarosh,’ Aamir Khan plays ACP Ajay Rathod, who is determined to eradicate terrorism in India. His quest leads him to uncover a network of militants planning attacks. As Rathod delves deeper into the case, he faces personal and professional challenges, including the loss of his team members. The movie also stars Sonali Bendre as Seema Nagrath: Ajay's girlfriend. Apart from Sonali, the movie also stars  Naseeruddin Shah in an important role. Aamir Khan’s Work Front: Aamir Khan is busy working on 'Sitare Zameen Par'. According to the latest report, Aamir Khan’s 'Sitare Zameen Par' will focus on Down Syndrome and the challenges faced by individuals dealing with it. Reports suggest that the movie will star Genelia Deshmukh and is scheduled for release on Christmas this year. The movie will also star 'Taare Zameen Par' fame Darsheel Safari in a pivotal role.

10 May,2024 09:25 PM IST | Mumbai
In Pic: Hrishitaa Bhatt. (Pic/Instagram)

Hrishitaa Bhatt Birthday 2024: Actress’ journey from debut, fame to lost stardom

Hrishitaa Bhatt is a name that resonates with our childhood. An actress who mesmerized us all with her talent, we still yearn for her presence on screen. Today, as Hrishitaa Bhatt celebrates her birthday, let's take a look back at her journey from debut to fame, and then a subtle goodbye to the glamour world. Hrishitaa was born on May 10th, 1981. She went abroad for her higher studies. It was in 2001 when Hrishitaa made her debut with the epic historical drama 'Ashoka' alongside Shah Rukh Khan. The actress received a good reaction from critics and audiences alike, but it was her second film that brought her fame. Her next film was 'Dil Vil Pyar Vyar'. The multi-starrer proved lucky for Bhatt, as the film garnered her a lot of fame. The same year, Bhatt starred as a lead with Abhishek Bachchan in the comedy-drama film, 'Shararat' (2002). From the period between 2003 to 2009, Hrishitaa enjoyed her time of fame, during which she did around 25 movies across different languages including Hindi, Urdu, Bengali, Telugu, and Kannada. Hrishitaa made her Bengali debut in 2007 with 'Jeet' and Priyanshu Chatterjee in 'Bidhaatar Lekha'. During the period between 2003 and 2009, Hrishitaa appeared in films including 'Haasil' (2003), 'Ab Tak Chhappan' (2004), and 'Charas: A Joint Operation' (2004). She also made special appearances in some highly acclaimed films including 'Kisna: The Warrior Poet' (2005), 'Page 3' (2006), 'Heyy Baby' (2007), and 'My Name is Anthony Gonsalves' (2008). After this, Hrishitaa mostly focused on regional cinema for some time until 2016 when she appeared in the Vivek Agnihotri directorial, 'Junooniyat', along with Yami Gautam and Pulkit Samrat. During these years, she also debuted as a producer of the comic drama film, 'Shakal Pe Mat Ja', which was released in 2011. In 2020, she decided to make a strong move by debuting in the digital space with the cop drama, 'Lalbazaar', followed by another series, 'Chargesheet: The Shuttlecock Murder'. Since then, we have been missing her, as the actress has taken a back seat. On the personal front, on 4th March 2017, she married Anand Tiwari in a private ceremony in Delhi.

10 May,2024 05:45 PM IST | Mumbai
Team Sanki

Ahan Shetty and Pooja Hegde-starrer Sanki to commence shooting on June 6

Ever since the first announcement of 'Sanki' has happened there has been a lot of buzz about the unusual pair of Ahan Shetty and Pooja Hegde. Producer Sajid Nadiadwala plans to kickstart the schedule on 6th June with a special action designed sequence with an international designer Kecha Khamphakdee. A source close to the development added, “The team is all set to kickstart a week long Mumbai schedule with a lot of action sequences designed by Kecha and then followed by a Goa schedule. The duo's chemistry is anticipated to sizzle on screen, adding an extra layer of excitement to the project.” It is going to be a very different world of Sanki which the audience will experience with this film.” 'Sanki' is poised to be a high-octane thriller, promising audiences a rollercoaster ride of adrenaline-pumping action sequences and gripping drama. With Sajid Nadiadwala at the helm, known for his penchant for delivering blockbuster hits, expectations are running high for this film to deliver on its promise of entertainment excellence. 'Sanki' has blocked Valentine’s Day 14th February 2025 for it’s release. Ahan made his debut with Sajid's film 'Tadap' in 2021. The film also starred Tara Sutaria. Written by Rajat Aroraa, and directed by debut directors Adnan A. Shaikh and Yasir Jah. Sajid Nadiadwala's upcoming films: The filmmaker has Housefull 5 in the pipeline. 'Housefull 5' marks the first-ever franchise film in Indian Cinema to have five instalments. The first part of 'Housefull' was released in the year 2010 and starred Akshay, Riteish, Lara Dutta, Deepika Padukone, Arjun Rampal and Boman Irani. The film was declared a hit, followed by another hit sequel 'Housefull 2' which was released in 2012 and included a stellar cast of Akshay, Ritiesh, John Abraham, Shreyas Talpade, Jacqueline Fernandez, Rishi Kapoor, Randhir Kapoor, Mithun Chakraborty and Asin. Both parts were helmed by director Sajid Khan. Sajid was replaced in the third instalment of the film by director duo Sajid Samji and Farhad Samji. The film was released in 2016. Director Farhad Samji helmed the fourth part of the franchise which was a reincarnation comedy film. The fifth part will be helmed by Tarun Mansukhani. Sajid Nadiadwala is producing it. Sajid is also coming up with 'Chandu Champion.' Helmed by Kabir Khan, 'Chandu Champion' is based on the extraordinary real-life story of a sportsman and his spirit of never giving up. Kartik Aaryan will portray the character of Chandu. 'Chandu Champion' marks Kartik's first collaboration with director Kabir Khan.

10 May,2024 02:50 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Kunal Kemmu

11 years of Go Goa Gone: Kunal says the film gave him confidence as a writer

India’s first zombie apocalypse movie, ‘Go Goa Gone’, continues to be one of the most iconic Hindi films of all time. Helmed by Raj and D.K., the film completes eleven years since its release today. Interestingly, the zombie action comedy won over audiences not just with its hilarious and engaging storyline, but also with its breakthrough performances and dialogues. Playing the lead in the film, the versatile Kunal Kemmu delivered one of his career’s best performances and also wrote the film’s iconic dialogues, which continue to have a fan base of their own even today. Opening up about the film, Kunal Kemmu said, “‘Go Goa Gone’ remains one of the most special films in my career. We embarked on this journey with a passion to bring this film to life with all our hearts. Raj & DK are exceptional filmmakers and deserve all the recognition. I am glad that I could contribute more than just acting to the film. As an actor, I learnt so much more about filmmaking and writing through this film. Previously, I only wrote for myself, but ‘Go Goa Gone’ changed that, giving me confidence as a writer too. It’s truly a film that brings me immense happiness and pride.” A cult classic celebrated for its blend of horror and comedy, along with rib-tickling dialogues, the film follows the journey of a group of friends who go to Goa for a vacation and end up finding themselves fighting a desi zombie apocalypse. Released on May 10th, 2013, ‘Go Goa Gone’ co-stars Saif Ali Khan and Vir Das in key roles. Additionally, Kunal Kemmu is basking in the love he has been receiving for his debut directorial, ‘Madgaon Express’, for which the actor-turned-filmmaker also became a singer with the song ‘Hum Yahin’. Bringing his humour to the forefront, Kunal Kemmu has set the bar high as a filmmaker with his brilliant comedy-drama. Raj and DK, the directors of Go Goa Gone also marked 11 years of their film with an interesting post. They shared a motion poster of the film and wrote a caption combining lines from the film and Akshaya Trithiya.  "This Akshaya Trithiya… Smoking is injurious to health.So is alcohol.And drugs.And guns.So... Go Easy!(Disclaimer from the film)"           View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Raj & DK (@rajanddk)

10 May,2024 02:49 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Aayush Sharma and Arpita

Aayush Sharma said he had a 'good laugh' over divorce rumours

Aayush Sharma, who recently starred in the movie 'Ruslaan,' and is married to Arpita Khan Sharma, who is Salman Khan's sister, have been together for almost ten years. Throughout their marriage, they've faced various challenges, including dealing with rumours of divorce when Aayush entered Bollywood. Salman Khan's brother-in-law Aayush Sharma on divorce rumours  In 2019, the couple was surprised to find themselves at the centre of divorce rumours. Aayush Sharma recalled the incident in a recent interview with News18 Showsha, saying, “Nobody has been that interested in my life to float rumours about me around. But I remember a very small incident. I took my son out for dosa and when we were coming out, the paparazzi caught me and asked me if Arpita and I were filing for divorce.” “I was just so surprised! I took my son out for a snack and ended up facing questions about our divorce. When I came back home, I asked Arpita if she was going to divorce me. And we had a good laugh over it,” Aayush said reflecting on the hilarious episode. The couple who got married in 2014 are parents to a son Ahil and were blessed with their second child, a baby girl Ayat, on December 27, 2021. The little one shares her birthday with her uncle Salman Khan. Aayush Sharma on the mean comments Arpita faces During an interaction with Siddharth Kanan, Aayush said in Hindi, "Kayi log unke rang ke baare main opinion dete hain aur woh mujhe bohot hassi ka topic lagta hai. Hindustan ki jo zyada tar pratishat janta hai, unka rang kya hai? Sab gore hain? Main Himachal se hoon iss liye mera rang gora hai. Aur agar aap dark ya saawle rang ke hain toh usme galat kya hai?" (Many people have an opinion about her skin colour, which makes me laugh. What is the skin colour of the majority of Indians? Is everyone fair-skinned? I am from Himachal which is why I am. If you are dark or have a dusky skin tone, what is wrong with that?) He continued, "Kis baat ke liye ek skin colour ke peeche log haath dho ke pad jaate hain? Kyu? Sochne ki baat hai, hum log yahan bolte hain ‘Black Lives Matter’ America main. Aur yahan pe khud ke logo ka hi rang ka mazaak uda rahe hain." (Why are people constantly running behind a skin colour? It is to be pondered since we say ‘Black Lives Matter’ in America and here make fun of our people.)

10 May,2024 02:44 PM IST | Mumbai
Ibrahim Ali Khan

Ibrahim Ali Khan goes shirtless on Miami beach, see pics

Saif Ali Khan and Amrita Singh's son Ibrahim Ali Khan is all set to make his Bollywood debut later this year. Having wrapped the shoot of his debut film, he was seen cooling off in Miami recently. The soon-to-be actor who recently made a public Instagram account shared pictures from his Miami trip.  Ibrahim shared a string on pictures featuring himself at the Miami beach. In one of the pictures, he is seen without his shirt. He also dropped pictures and a video from a Formula 1 race that he witnessed from the stands.  Sharing the pictures, he wrote, "Miami State Of Mind #photodump".           View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Ibrahim Ali Khan (@iakpataudi) Recently, Ibrahim Ali Khan shared a series of pictures with Formula One driver Charles Leclerc from the recent Miami Grand Prix. Alongside the pictures, Ibrahim wrote, "I know, even Charles confused me for a Ferrari driver @charles_leclerc @pumaindia." As soon as these pictures made their way to social media, fans started reacting to them, but it was one special comment that caught our eye.           View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Ibrahim Ali Khan (@iakpataudi) Ibrahim Ali Khan currently has over 800k followers on Instagram. However, he has not gone public with his private account that he has been using for years. He started a new account where he will be sharing his work and other updates with fans.  About Ibrahim Ali Khan’s personal life: Recently, Ibrahim and Palak were snapped as they went out for a dinner date at Lyla in Mumbai. Earlier during one of the episodes of Karan Johar’s "Koffee With Karan 8," actor Saif Ali Khan was asked if he had any criteria for women approaching his eldest son Ibrahim Ali Khan. Responding to it, the Adipurush actor said that she should be single. “My criteria doesn’t matter. Nobody is listening. Even though he does ask for some advice. Single, I’d say. The lady should be single,” the actor revealed. Ibrahim Ali Khan’s work front: Meanwhile, on the work front, Ibrahim Ali Khan was the assistant director on Karan Johar's film ‘Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahani’. He has wrapped the shoot of his debut film with Dharma Productions, which reportedly also stars Kajol and Prithviraj Sukumaran. If reports are to be believed, Ibrahim will also be seen in a romcom alongside Khushi Kapoor. As per the information, Karan Johar feels that the film should be released on OTT.

10 May,2024 02:41 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Vyjayanthimala Bali. Picture Courtesy/X

'Happy and humbled': Vyjayanthimala Bali on being conferred Padma Vibhushan

After receiving the Padma Vibhushan award, veteran actor Vyjayanthimala Bali expressed her happiness. Vyjayanthimala received the award in the field of Art from President Droupadi Murmu in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The ceremony took place at Rashtrapati Bhavan in the national capital. After attending the ceremony, Vyjayantimala spoke with ANI and expressed her happiness. She said, "I have to thank my god for his compassion, kindness, and mercy... It's our Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji and the Government of India who have recognised my art- dance as well as films. I received the Padma Shri in 1969, and now Padma Vibhushan is a very big thing. I am happy and humbled to receive this award." Recently, the legendary actress met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Chennai. Taking to X, PM Modi shared pictures from her meeting with Vyjayanthimala. In one of the images, PM Modi can be seen greeting Vyjayanthimala with folded hands. "Glad to have met Vyjayanthimala Ji in Chennai. She has just been conferred the Padma Vibhushan and is admired across India for her exemplary contribution to the world of Indian cinema," he wrote. Vyjayanthimala made her screen debut at the age of 16 with the Tamil film Vaazhkai (1949). 'Devdas', 'Sangam', 'Madhumanti' and 'Naya Daur' are some of her iconic films. Padma Awards, one of the highest civilian Awards of the country, are conferred in three categories, namely, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri. The Awards are given in various disciplines and fields of activities like art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, civil service, etc. 'Padma Vibhushan' is awarded for exceptional and distinguished service, 'Padma Bhushan' for distinguished service of high order and 'Padma Shri' for distinguished service in any field. The awards are announced on the occasion of Republic Day every year. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever

10 May,2024 01:33 PM IST | Mumbai | ANI
MAMI Mumbai Film Festival 2024

MAMI Mumbai Film Festival 2024 dates revealed, read all about the latest edition

MAMI (Mumbai Academy of Moving Image) Mumbai Film Festival announced the dates for its 2024 edition. Scheduled from October 19–24, 2024, the festival is set to captivate audiences in India by showing the best of world cinema while spotlighting South Asian cinema and talent. MAMI Mumbai Film Festival 2024 dates revealed With a curated selection of the finest South Asian, South Asian Diaspora, and international cinema, the festival remains steadfast in its mission to champion independent and emerging filmmakers. The latest edition is sure to knock our socks off from October 19–24. About MAMI Mumbai Film Festival and Year Round Programme MAMI Mumbai Film Festival, organised by the Mumbai Academy of Moving Image (MAMI), has brought the best of contemporary world cinema and talent to the city of Mumbai since 1997. About MAMI Mumbai Film Festival 2024 With its new expanded vision to spotlight South Asian and South Asian diaspora filmmakers, MAMI becomes the hub for South Asia, discovering and connecting emerging talent to the worldwide festival ecosystem. Along with celebrating cinematic excellence and bringing joy to our audiences, we aim to facilitate the exchange of ideas and provide easy access to information related to filmmaking, funding, film distribution, business opportunities, and strategic marketing support for films and filmmakers.  The Academy also conducts a robust Year Round Programme that acts as a hub for creators and cinephiles through screenings, networking opportunities, access to labs and workshops for skill development, masterclasses, and, very importantly, creating a community of cinema lovers. MAMI Year Round Programme (YRP) is a series of year-round activities that keep our members connected with all things cinema. The MAMI Members, a huge community of cinephiles, aspiring and working filmmakers, technicians, and new audiences interested in films from around the world, can access the programme that is focused on building cinema-watching communities. We invite our members to watch, discuss, and connect over films from across the world and from the MAMI archives. The Year Round Programme also brings in specially designed programmes throughout the year that are designed to enhance awareness and conversations around cinema from South Asia and across the world.

10 May,2024 01:05 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Cannes 2024

Cannes 2024: 7 Indian films to screen at the festival

It’s that time of the year when filmmakers and actors across the world will travel to Cannes to talk craft and cinema. The Cannes 2024 Film Festival will commence on May 14 and will end on May 25.  All We Imagine As Light  Category:  Palme d’Or Main competition Indian filmmaker Payal Kapadia’s 'All We Imagine as Light' scripted history by becoming the first Indian title in 30 years since 'Swaham' (1994)to feature in the prestigious Competition section of the Cannes Film Festival, where it will vie for the top prize Palme d’Or. The movie is an Indo-France co-production about two Kerala nurses working in a Mumbai nursing home. The film stars Kani Kusruti and Divya Prabha.  Kapadia’s project will be presented alongside 19 anticipated titles, including films from master directors, Francis Ford Coppola and Yorgos Lanthimos.  Sister Midnight Category: Directors Fortnight category  Karan Kandhari's Sister Midnight has been selected for the Director's Fortnight category. Not much is known about the film, but its includins in the prestigious category speaks volumes of the quality of the film.  Santosh  Category: Un Certain Regard  British-Indian filmmaker Sandhya Suri’s Santosh will also be showcased at the 77th edition of the film gala. The movie will be screened under the Un Certain Regard section. The film delves into the lives of a family grappling with the aftermath of a tragic event. The film explores themes of grief, memory and complexities of human relationships.  In Retreat Category: ACID Maisam Ali's ‘In Retreat’ finds its place in the ACID section at Cannes. The film explores themes of belonging and home, as a man returns to his hometown after many years and undergoes a one-night pilgrimage The Shameless Category: Un Certain Regard  Auroshikha Dey, who portrayed Jhalkari Bai in The Warrior Queen of Jhansi (2019), is thrilled to take her next, The Shameless, to the prestigious film festival. Bulgarian-American director Konstantin Bojanov’s film will première in the UnCertain Regard section.  The Shameless tells the story of a young woman, essayed by Anasuya Sengupta, who escapes from a brothel in Delhi and seeks refuge in a community of sex workers. Dey recalls landing the role of the fiery Durva after a screen test. “Bojanov sir appreciated my audition, which led to my casting. Durva is confrontational and focused on securing her day-to-day livelihood. Bojanov sir meticulously outlined the character sketch. We also had workshops that helped me define the character’s tone,” she recalls.  Manthan  Shyam Benegal's 1976 masterpiece was restored and will be screened at the festival. This iconic film, which explores India's ‘White Revolution,’ has been meticulously restored, allowing a new generation to experience its timeless storytelling and cultural significance. Sunflowers Were The First To Know  Category: La Cinef The short film has been made by a  group of students from the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune. The film was part of their year-end TV-wing project. The film has been selected to compete in the La Cinef category at the festival in France. Mr. Chidanand Naik helmed the rural drama as director, with Suraj Thakur behind the camera, Manoj V on editing duty, Abhishek Kadam handling sound, and Pranav Khot taking care of production design. The film is going head-to-head with 17 other shorts for a shot at one of three La Cinef awards, set to be handed out at the Bunuel Theatre on May 23.  

10 May,2024 10:25 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Sidharth Malhotra in Yodha

Sidharth Malhotra, Raashii Khanna, Disha Patani's 'Yodha' gets OTT release

Prime Video today announced the global streaming premiere of the action-thriller film Yodha, which marked the first co-production between Prime Video and Dharma Production. Starring Sidharth Malhotra, Disha Patani, and Raashii Khanna, the thrilling action-drama is directed by the debutant director duo of Sagar Ambre and Pushkar Ojha. Presented by Prime Video and Dharma Production in association with Mentor Disciple Entertainment, the film is produced by Hiroo Yash Johar, Karan Johar, Apoorva Mehta, and Shashank Khaitan. Yodha will exclusively premiere on Prime Video in India and across 240 countries and territories worldwide today.  Yodha follows the story of a formidable soldier, Arun Katyal (played by Sidharth Malhotra), leading an elite task force that is called upon to handle situations and missions no one else can. But when a mission goes horribly wrong, the blame is pinned on Arun, and he’s relieved from duty. Years later, when he finds himself on a flight that is hijacked mid-air, suspicion looms over his presence on the passenger list. Is he out for payback, or will this coincidence enable him to redeem himself from the disgraceful dismissal? This sets the stage for a pulsating suspenseful action thriller with high-octane action sequences that will keep the audiences on the edge of their seats.  Before the theatrical release of the film earlier this year, Sidharth had opened up about his experience in 'Yodha'. He said, "Yodha is a completely fictitious story. We have created a new task force - Yodha. So when you create something from zero, then you can take a lot of liberties. We have done many variations in the film and also the action I got to perform is very different from 'Shershaah'. Here I am more energetic, and lean, and use different sorts of weapons. It is a far more commercial and entertaining film. I think it has got my best of action sequences that I have done in last decade or so." Sharing his thoughts on the film, Karan Johar, Producer and Owner of Dharma Productions, said, "It’s an out-and-out actioner. At the same time, it’s edgy, it’s slick, and most importantly, it’s infused with the right amount of drama and thrill. Sid perfectly embodies the demeanour of an action hero. With YODHA, he has gone full throttle as the action hero of new India.”

10 May,2024 09:38 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
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