Page 668 - Entertainment Culture
Guwahati Int'l Film Festival concludes, attracts record 10K
The second Guwahati International Film Festival (GIFF) concluded Wednesday at the Srimanta Sankardeva International Auditorium, Kalakshetra, after the week-long extravaganza attracted a record footfall of over 10,000 viewers. The event, organized between Octoer 25 and October 31, screened over a hundred films of Asian, Arab, Mediterranean, European and North East Indian cinema. It also included among others India premiere of the Jahnu Barua directed and Priyanka Chopra's Purple Pebbles Picture production's Assamese film Bhoga Khirikee. Official sources said that the organisers had to stop all registrations on the second day of the event due to the unprecedented rush of viewers. The Assam government-owned Jyoti Chitraban (Film Studio) Society was the organiser of the festival along with Dr Bhupen Hazarika Regional Government Film and Television Institute. Naba Kumar Doley, Minister, Cultural Affairs, said at the closing ceremony that besides creating a platform for ...
Jimmy Fallon wishes 'Happy Halloween' as Trump
American comedian Jimmy Fallon once again got back into character as United States President Donald Trump on his show and delivered a special message to America before Halloween.During 'The Tonight Show' on Tuesday (local time) Fallon, dressed as a vampire, emerged from a coffin/tanning bed and wished Happy Halloween to his audience.Without breaking character, Fallon continued to impersonate the commander-in-chief. He said, "Good evening, America. It is I, Count Chocula, wishing you all a very happy Halloween. That's right! I said it. Happy Halloween. It's so great to be able to say Happy Halloween again. The war on 'ween is over. I am here tonight to reach out to the nation's youngest voters: the trick-or-treaters. But first, I would like to talk about my costume. I'm very proud of it. Isn't it fantastic? My vampire costume has been a huge success. All day long, people have been yelling at me, 'You suck!' Thank you. Let's face it, folks: Dracula's a terrific person. He's a great guy.
Laurence Fishburne to star in UFO drama 'Rendlesham'
Laurence Fishburne of 'Matrix' movie series fame will be next seen in a paranormal TV drama ' Rendlesham'.Fishburne will also be seen portraying the role of the executive producer for this drama, reported Variety. The film is inspired by a suspected Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) activity over a US Airbase near Rendlesham village in the UK, that took place in 1980.in the TV drama, the actor will play the role of a man named Tyrone, a retired American air force officer who was previously stationed at the base during the Cold War. The twist in the story comes about when he along with his wife Carol and son Brock, returns to the area only to face the events that haunted him throughout his life.Apart from Fishburne, Eve Gutierrez and Jill Green will be the executive producers for the upcoming drama. Joe Ahearne of 'Doctor Who' fame will be writing and directing the series.Fishburne, who last appeared in Marvel movie 'Ant-Man and The Wasp' will also reprise his role as Bowey King in the .
Cinema hall owners end strike in MP
Cinema hall owners in Madhya Pradesh called off their nearly month-long strike Wednesday evening, though no decision has been taken yet on their demand of withdrawal of entertainment tax. No new films were being released in over 400 theatres in the state since October 5 in protest against the entertainment tax levied by local bodies. "We have received a message that the strike has been withdrawn. The organisations of film producers and multiplex owners were leading this strike," said Jai Prakash Chouksey, president of Central Cine Circuit, an association of film distributors. The government requested local municipal bodies to review the decision to levy entertainment tax on cinema tickets, but no further decision could be taken as the model code of conduct came into force after the Assembly elections were declared, he said. Theatre owners have said the entertainment tax, levied over and above the Goods and Services Tax, is an additional burden on the sector and is ...
Rakhi sues Tanushree for defamation, seeks '25 paise' damages
Bollywood actor Rakhi Sawant on Wednesday filed a 25 paise defamation suit against Tanushree Dutta for allegedly hurting her reputation by making "unwholesome" and "deeply derogatory" statements. She claimed that Tanushree spoke in derogatory fashion about her during an interview with a television channel where she accused actor Nana Patekar of sexually harassing her on a movie set in 2008. In her suit, filed at a civil court in suburban Malad, Sawant said she has been part of the film industry for two decades and made a "promising career and name for herself". "The defendant (Tanushree) had an uncharacteristic, unstable and disappointing career in the film industry, spanning for only five years. After which she was out of limelight. "Upon her return to limelight, Tanushree made certain unwholesome and deeply derogative statements against Sawant due to which, she (Sawant) has incurred huge financial losses and has suffered a dent on her reputation, which had taken years to build," the
Rituparno Ghosh opened doors for LGBT community through his films: Sangeeta Datta
Director Sangeeta Datta says her documentary feature "Bird of Dusk", is an attempt to showcase filmmaker Rituparno Ghosh's pioneering work on gender neutrality and the representation of alternate sex through his cinema. Dutta, who collaborated with Ghosh on many films, says "Bird of Dusk", which had it's India premiere at the 20th MAMI Mumbai Film Festival on October 28, is an extremely personal film. "He will continue to remain relevant. He has a huge filmography of great work. He spoke about gender neutrality and that opened the door for the next generation. Whether it is London or New York or Chicago or here in MAMI, audiences gave a standing ovation to the film and wanted to revisit his work," Datta told PTI. "If the film is engaging and making younger people involved in his life and work, then the purpose is solved. For instance, Satyajit Ray is still remembered fondly. So there is a need for a retrospective on their work at film festivals," she says. Ghosh was considered as an ..
#MeToo: HC rejects PIL seeking NCW's intervention in sexual harassment cases
The Delhi High Court on Wednesday dismissed the Public Interest Litigation seeking direction to National Commission for Women (NCW) to take suo-motto action regarding sexual harassment cases coming into its notice under #MeToo movement.The petition asked the NCW to take legal action against the cases that came into light through the MeToo movementThe 'Me Too' movement gained momentum in India after Bollywood actor Tanushree Dutta accused Nata Patekar of misbehaving with her during a film shoot in 2008.Since then, scores of women have come out to speak about their ordeals on social media, including actors, musicians, journalists, and politicians.
Anupam Kher quits as FTII chief (Third Lead)
Veteran actor Anupam Kher said on Wednesday that he had quit as Chairman of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) here, a year after his appointment, citing his international assignments as the reason.
Priyanka Chopra wears Marchesa gown for bridal shower to support Georgina Chapman
Actor Priyanka Chopra said she intentionally chose to wear a Marchesa gown to her bridal shower to support longtime friend and designer Georgina Chapman, who divorced disgraced producer Harvey Weinstein after he was accused of sexual harassment by multiple women. The 36-year-old actor, who is tying the knot with American Singer Nick Jonas in December this year, told Women's Wear Daily that Chapman should not suffer for the fault of her ex-husband. Chopra called the decision to wear the gown as "women supporting women". "Georgina's a friend of mine, and she has been. And it's not her fault. And I don't think it's right to take it out on a self-made woman what somebody in her life did. "That's the wrong attitude. I've known her for years, and that was a beautiful gown, and deserved to be worn by a bride-to-be. And it made me feel like a princess. It was the right choice," Chopra added.
Fans put up billboard asking Disney to rehire James Gun
James Gunn's firing from "Guardians of the Galaxy 3" continues to rankle franchise fans, who put up a billboard to declare their support for the director. Disney fired Gunn in July after his old tweets, where he joked about rape and pedophilia, resurfaced. The digital billboard popped up in Garden Grove, California, at an intersection just over four miles away from Disneyland in Anaheim. It reads "Save the Galaxy: James Gunn for Vol. 3, according to the Hollywood Reporter. It was paid for via a GoFundMe campaign that has raised nearly USD 5,000 since launching last month. The director's firing received widespread criticism, with both fans and the cast of the film unsuccessfully appealing Disney to reinstate him. Gunn has moved on and has been hired by Warner Bros to write a sequel to "Suicide Squad", which he may also direct.
Vanessa Kirby portraying Jason Statham's sister in 'Hobbs & Shaw'
"The Crown" star Vanessa Kirby is playing the sister of actor Jason Statham in the upcoming "Fast and Furious" spin-off "Hobbs & Shaw". The revelation was made by actor Dwayne Johnson who shared a photo of his with Kirby from the film's set on Instagram. "Building out our 'Fast & Furious' franchise step by step. In our spin-off, 'HOBBS & SHAW', I have a nice new friend. Meet 'Hattie Shaw' played by my homegirl, @vanessa__kirby. Hattie loves the following/Longs walks on the beach. Being a bad ass MI6 Operative. Drinking tequila with Hobbs. And not in that order," he wrote. "Hattie also happens to be the sister of Deckard Shaw, who's played by @jasonstatham. It tortures him that his sister Hattie is kickin' it with Hobbs. His pain makes me very happy. But what makes me happier is welcoming this crazy talented actress and cool chick to our movie. Havin' a blast together. Building out the franchise step by step," he added. The film, being directed by "Deadpool 2" helmer David .
Superheroes Falcon, Winter Soldier limited series to be a reality soon
Fans of the Marvel universe would surely be overjoyed, as a limited series featuring Falcon and Winter Soldier is currently under development.The series will be aired on Disney's streaming service. According to Variety, it is the first time ever that a Marvel limited series found a writer.Malcolm Spellman of 'Our family Wedding' movie fame has been roped in as the writer for the series. He also wrote for the hit American TV series 'Empire'.Anthony Mackie, who played the role of Falcon; and Sebastian Stan, who played the role of the Winter Soldier in the recent movie 'Avengers: Infinity War' are reportedly expected to reprise their roles for this unique series.The character of Winter Soldier a.k.a. Bucky Barnes made its debut in the 2011 film 'Captain America' and also appeared for the second time in 'Captain America: The Winter Soldier', the second film of this franchise. On the other hand, the character of Falcon made its debut in the second film.Unlike other standalone series for ...
Director owns the failure, actors own the success: Hansal Mehta
Filmmaker Hansal Mehta, who has made award-winning dramas says it is his observation that when a movie fails its ownership falls on the director, and when it's a success the actor walks away with the accolades.
Halloween 2018: Twinkle Khanna, Preity Zinta show how it's done
Touted to be one of the spookiest night of the year, Halloween has dawned upon us and Bollywood divas Twinkle Khanna and Preity Zinta are all geared up for it.Unveiling her wicked yet beautiful side, Preity Zinta shared a picture of herself on Instagram in a black costume and spider head gear."Bringing up my wicked side ! Wishing y'all a super fun spook-taculer #HalloweenNight filled with magical surprises ! P.S. don't forget to tell me your favourite halloween character ! #Ting," read the caption.Preity looked dreamy in the sequined sleeveless outfit with a plunging neckline, teamed up with subtle make-up. For her hair, the actor opted for bangs with a long bob.Mrs. Funnybones-Twinkle Khanna also shared a boomerang video on Instagram in which she can be seen kissing a ghost-toy, wearing a black velvet witch hat.Twinkle also expressed her love for horror movies and wished her followers a happy Halooween.Alongside the boomerang video, she wrote, "Happy Halloween to all the horror ...
Anupam Kher had an empathetic ear for issues: FTII Director
Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) director Bhupendra Kainthola on Wednesday expressed gratitude to Anupam Kher for always having an empathetic ear to the concerns and issues surrounding the institute.This comes after the veteran actor announced that he is resigning from the post of the institute's chairman.In his statement, Kainthola stated that it was a privilege to have worked with Anupam Kher over the past one year."He (Anupam) visited the campus several times and had an empathetic ear for the concerns and issues of the Institute. On October 30, 2017 he presided over the first-ever meetings of FTII's Standing Finance Committee, Society and Governing Council. He also approved the new Academic Council. With this, the functional architecture of FTII, the country's premier film education centre, is now in place," read the statement.Kainthola concluded by saying, "FTII wishes him all the very best in his new endeavour and expresses gratitude to him for his leadership, ...
IMAX ticket booking for 'Thugs Of Hindostan' starts early
With the growing buzz around the ambitious "Thugs Of Hindostan", IMAX Corporation has opened advance booking for the film a day before the other screens.
Mumbai festival to curate socially-oriented dance performances
A contemporary dance curation, scheduled to take place from Thursday here, will feature performances by renowned artistes on themes like 'voices of the trapped', twisted truths, intolerance and bodily impulses, and Draupadi's account through the lens of today's woman.
'Zero' trailer to be out on SRK's birthday!
It's time for double celebrations for all Shah Rukh Khan fans!The 'Badshaah' of Bollywood, who turns a year older on November 2, will be releasing the much-anticipated trailer of 'Zero' on his birthday.The trailer will be released at a grand event which will be attended by SRK and the leading ladies of the film - Anushka Sharma and Katrina Kaif. The makers of the film have planned on taking the event a notch higher by recreating Meerut city and establishing Ghanta Ghar along with the colourful mela-like set up which will feature food joints and game stalls.In the film, SRK plays the role of a vertically challenged man who falls in love with a superstar, played by Katrina, while Anushka will also play a pivotal character.The teaser of the film featuring SRK and Salman Khan was released on Eid this year.Produced by Gauri Khan, the Aanand L Rai-directorial is all set to release on December 21.
Discipline, honesty will help Ahan in Bollywood, says Suniel Shetty
Actor Suniel Shetty says if his son Ahaan Shetty, who will soon make his Hindi film debut, remains disciplined, honest and thinks about his producers more than anybody else, he will be successful in his career.
Kher resigns as FTII chairperson citing commitment to US TV show
Actor Anupam Kher has resigned as chairperson of the Film and Television Institute of India citing commitments to an international TV show for which he has to be stationed in the US for long periods of time over the next three years. In his resignation letter to Information and Broadcasting Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, he said he will be stationed in the US for "nearly nine months between 2018 and 2019 and then for a similar period for a minimum of three years more" due to his commitment to the NBC series "New Amsterdam". His resignation letter, dated October 30, has been accepted by Rathore, who thanked Kher for his services to the premier institute, sources said Wednesday. Kher, one of Bollywood's most enduring versatile actors, told PTI he has recommended to the ministry two-three people who can take over as chief of the Pune-based institute but refused to reveal the names. "Given this assignment (the show), it would not be fair to me, the students and management team, for .