Stories

08 Feb 2024
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Alia Bhatt named Exec Producer for Amazon Original Crime Series ‘Poacher’ on elephant poaching

February 8, 2024 No Comments

Prime Video today announced that actor, producer and entrepreneur, Alia Bhatt has come onboard as Executive Producer for its upcoming Amazon Original Series Poacher, produced by QC Entertainment.

An investigative crime series based on true events; Poacher unearths the largest ivory poaching ring in Indian history. A first-of-its kind project, Poacher brings the world of environmental conservation and entertainment together with the intent of highlighting a key global concern – illegal poaching.

Emmy-award winning filmmaker Richie Mehta has created, written, and directed the series, which boasts of a diverse and talented cast comprising Nimisha Sajayan, Roshan Mathew, and Dibyendu Bhattacharya in pivotal roles.

Poacher which unfolds primarily in Malayalam, Hindi and English, is set to premiere exclusively on Prime Video in India and across more than 240 countries and territories worldwide on February 23 in multiple languages. The crime series is the latest addition to the Prime membership. 

A globally celebrated artist, Alia is also known as a champion of nature and has actively lent her voice towards conservation and sustainability. Her association with Poacher as an Executive Producer with her production company Eternal Sunshine Productions, underscores her belief in the story and her commitment to bring important and relevant stories alive and be a voice for the voiceless. 

Talking about coming onboard as the Executive Producer for Poacher, Alia Bhatt shared, “Being part of this incredibly significant project is an honor, for both me and the entire team at Eternal Sunshine Productions. The impact of Poacher was deeply personal, and Richie’s portrayal of the urgent issue of wildlife crime resonated strongly with me and the team. The storytelling genuinely moved me, especially knowing it’s based on true events, that sheds light on brutal crimes occurring in our forests. I am confident that Poacher will serve as an eye-opener, delivering a powerful message to be more compassionate and considerate towards all living beings. It’s a call to embrace coexistence and I am genuinely thrilled to be collaborating with Richie, QC and Prime Video and to contribute to this narrative.” 

“Alia coming on board Poacher is truly a dream come true. In addition to being a world class actress she has proven to be a selfless philanthropist channeling her well respected and earned celebrity status for championing positive causes. Her involvement in this series helps raise awareness for the important issues addressed in the show. The most important of which is, we are all one interconnected humanity and planet. It’s crucial that we treat it with the respect and consideration it deserves,” said QC principals Hamm, Mansfield & McKittrick. 

Poacher is executive produced by QC Entertainment’s Edward H. Hamm Jr., Raymond Mansfield and Sean McKittrick, in association with Suitable Pictures, Poor Man’s Productions and Eternal Sunshine Productions. Alan McAlex (Suitable Boy) serves as producer for Suitable Pictures. Also from Delhi Crime are Director of Photography Johan Aidt, composer Andrew Lockington and editor Beverley Mills. 

Apart from her pursuits in cinema, Alia has passionately helped raise awareness about relevant causes such as environmental sustainability, animal welfare and mitigating human-animal conflict through her platform, Coexist. She also promotes sustainable fashion through her initiative, Mi Wardrobe is Su Wardrobe. 

01 Feb 2024
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Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s ‘Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar’ premieres on Netlfix

February 1, 2024 No Comments

In the midst of a power struggle in Heeramandi, a young heir caught in the crossfire chooses love
over succession, disrupting the status quo. Set in pre-independent India against a burgeoning
freedom movement, the final thread holding the art of tawaifs (courtesans) is put to the test. Hailed
as the grandest and most-awaited series of the year, the creative visionary, Sanjay Leela Bhansali,
is set to unveil his 14-year passion project in collaboration with Netflix, to global audiences.

Prepare for your personal screens to be adorned with an epic saga of love, power, revenge and
freedom. The series promises to be a profound celebration of art, culture, beauty, and Bhansali’s
legacy. The series by Bhansali Productions comprises a cast of sparkling heeras, including the
supremely talented Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Sharmin Segal, Richa
Chadha, and Sanjeeda Sheikh. Together, they personify grace on screen, each contributing to
the irresistible odyssey of Heeramandi.

29 Jan 2024
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Leave the World Behind – 5 uses of symbolism

January 29, 2024 No Comments

Imagine you wake up one morning, and spontaneously book a weekend getaway with your family, in a town far away from the city. You book a gorgeous Airbnb home, with an outdoor pool, acres of greenery to connect with nature, and a fully stocked house.

You get there, unpack, start having a good relaxing time…

Then, something odd happens.

You lose all internet connectivity, there’s no electricity, no access to the news, and the owners of the Airbnb want their home back in the middle of the night, because there’s a power outage.

Leave the World Behind is an apocalyptic psychological thriller starring Julia Roberts, Mahershala Ali, Ethan Hawke, Myha’la Herrold and Kevin Bacon, based on the 2020 novel by Rumaan Alam.

The film is a slow burn that gradually builds tension and suspense, showing the chaotic and mysterious occurrences, such as the herd of deer, flamingos and even Friends. But what did all those elements symbolise?

Let’s find out!

< Spoilers Ahead >

Blue

You must’ve noticed the striking blue walls in Amanda and Clay’s bedroom in the opening scene. Its jarringly bright.

But did you also notice the use of the colour throughout the film – their car, their clothes, the towels, the beach umbrellas, the tablet, the light from the TV and the pool.

The colour blue is often associated with feelings of calmness, serenity, peace, stability and evoke a sense of tranquillity. This is one of the reasons why most corporate logos and branding is coloured blue – it’s dependable (example, Facebook)

And the use of blue in the film symbolised exactly that – the safe and stable nature of the world. Most of Julia Roberts, or Amanda’s clothes are shades of blue, signifying her pragmatic nature and approach to the situation. Similar can be observed in sequences where Mahershala Ali, or George is seen wearing blue – he is calm and collected, trying to sensibly solve the mystery.

Until it slowly started shifting and we see shades of red. And as we all know – red is seen as a sign of danger, caution and the unknown.

Deer

In some cultures, deer are seen as messengers from the spirit realm, guiding individuals. Perhaps, that’s why they kept showing up at the house and even surrounded Ruth (Herrold) and Amanda (Roberts) in the forest, to guide them to safety.

This also leads to some other characteristic of deer for being vigilant, resilient, adaptable, and aware of their surroundings to navigate through changes quickly – traits humans often struggle with in the face of adversity. That is why they panicked and screamed at the herd, instead of connecting to nature’s message to protect them.

In certain cultures, deer is also linked to fertility and the cycle of life. The shedding and regrowth of their antlers each year can symbolise renewal, regeneration, and the cyclical nature of life. Perhaps their recurrence was another sign of the world, as we know it, collapsing and a reset or birth of another is in the making.

Flamingos

Flamingos are usually known for their aesthetic appeal with their vibrant pink and coral-coloured feathers. They are typically associated with tourist attraction at exotic locations such as lush resorts or wildlife sanctuaries.

Like all animals, Flamingos too are adaptable to various environmental changes and thrive in diverse situations. Hence, symbolizing the changes in the world and the need to travel in flocks to survive – representing the importance of community, cooperation, and social connection.

Moments before they arrive, we see Clay (Hawke) and Ruth break the ice. They try to get to know each other outside of their current situation and build a connection. Simultaneously, we witness George and Amanda share a bond by being honest, sharing a drink, being vulnerable, and dancing.

At this moment, all the preconceived notions they had of one another shed away, and they learn to act as a unit to survive.

In some mystical traditions, Flamingos are also seen as symbols of psychic awareness and mystery – perfectly contributing to the mood of the film.

Friends

As someone who grew up on Friends and immensely loves the show, this was such a refreshing and sweet inclusion in the film. However, what was most interesting was that a young Gen Z of 13 years adored the show just as much and found comfort in the characters.

The emotional impact of Friends is well known around different parts of the world. It’s central theme of friendship and the strong bond among the main characters, supporting each other and surviving through thick and thin has universal appeal and resonates with people.

This is perhaps what it symbolises in the grand scheme of things in Leave the World Behind. However, for Rose (Farrah Machenzie), it symbolises escapism from the uncertain and unstable world to a perfect world that doesn’t really exist. There’s another aspect of dependence of technology (more on that later), the culture of binge watching and the addiction of instant gratification.

Rose’s departure from the home portrays her lack of concern for the well-being of her family, or herself. She’s fixated on escaping from reality and finding all means to watch her beloved show. When she finally gets her hands on the DVDs, instead of continuing from where she left off, she chooses to fast forward to the last episode to see the end.

Her behaviour is a classic example of seeking immediate rewards or pleasure to avoid discomfort without considering the potential long-term consequences … of leaving her family behind for a TV show.

Technology

Rose’s yearning to know how Friends end and not being able to access the internet to stream the show, highlights our dependency on technology and our addiction towards it.

And, this is emphasised throughout the film.

The family is shown driving off from the city to their getaway, each using a piece of technology – with Amanda being on the phone, Clay turning on the radio, Archie (Charlie Evans) using his headphone and Rose watching Friends on her tablet.

This is completely flipped when they are instantly disconnected from the world and any form of news or entertainment, when the internet and all tech is down / hacked.

Another example highlighting the risk of the addiction is when all roadways are blocked by a row of crashed Tesla cars, self-driving electric vehicles that have no control without human intervention. While self-driving cars are an exciting technological design for improving / aiding humans, complete reliance on it is dangerous.

Popcorn Rating –   [5/5]

Leave the World Behind is not your usual apocalyptic thriller which reveals the doom and simply capture its characters’ survival. It’s a terrifying psychological experience that can potentially be real.

I’m sure there’s a whole lot more that I’ve missed.

Did you notice any other elements of symbolism in the film?

22 Jan 2024
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‘May December’ gives us an insight into the mind of a method actor

January 22, 2024 No Comments

Have you ever wanted to witness an actor’s process of method acting and their preparation. If yes, then watch May December, starring Natalie Portman, Julianne Moore and Charles Melton.

The film is loosely inspired by real scandalous incident of an affair between a 34-year of

school teacher and her sixth-grade student in Washington.

May December starts off in present day, when an actress Elizabeth (played by Portman) travels to meet and study the controversial teacher, Gracie (played by Moore) whom she is set to play in an upcoming film.

We witness the infamous couple who’s been married for approximately 20 years, through the eyes, observations and research of Elizabeth who questions the foundation and truth about this marriage, just like the viewer.

The film is hauntingly slow but succeeds at building intrigue and curiosity by relying heavily on Portman’s performance, who is essentially slipping into another actress’ shoes – Julianne Moore.

This is where the May December gives us a profound insight into the mind of method actor and the sheer brilliance of a true artist, who can embody another human physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Elizabeth (or Portman) peels the layers of the story from various angles and shadows her subject intently to grasp its essence.

It may not be obvious for most of the run-time of the film, but don’t give up on it because the last 15 minutes or so will shock you.

You can almost feel the switch go off and the numbness within Elizabeth when she plays Gracie, using emotional and sensory memory.

It’s no surprise that not all actors subscribe to the approach of method acting as it can be difficult to shake off some complex characters.

Popcorn Rating –   [3/5]

21 Jan 2024
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Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon’s ‘Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya’ trailer out now

January 21, 2024 No Comments

After the resounding love for the song ‘Laal Peeli Akhiyaan,’ the anticipation continues to mount as Dinesh Vijan and Jio Studios release the official trailer for their upcoming family entertainer extravaganza, ‘Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya.’ This film marks the first-time collaboration between the charismatic Shahid Kapoor and the vivacious Kriti Sanon, promising a delightful on-screen chemistry, entwined in an ‘impossible love story’ that is set to captivate audiences worldwide. Joining the young duo, legendary actors, Dharmendra and Dimple Kapadia also add their seasoned depth on-screen.

The trailer offers a glimpse into the roller-coaster ride of emotions, laughter, and an impossible love, seamlessly blending in essences of humor, romance, and relatable family moments, making it a must-watch for audiences of all ages.

Backed by Producer Dinesh Vijan’s banner Maddock Films, he says, “At Maddock Films we take pride in bringing forward unique stories with mass connect be it Hindi Medium, Stree or Luka Chuppi and this time we look forward to bringing out a family entertainer with a great combination of romance and humour perfect for the valentine week.

An impossible love story that has never been told before with a never seen before exciting pairing of Shahid-Kriti adding an extra layer of charisma and freshness to the world of romance.”

Prepared to tickle some funny bones, Directors Amit Joshi and Aradhana Sah add, “With Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, we hope to tap back into the love-genre, sprinkled with lots of comedy for a perfect family watch during the valentine week. Working with Maddock and bringing this film to life has been a fantastic experience, making this one a truly memorable project!”

Directed by Amit Joshi & Aradhana Sah, a Maddock Film’s production, Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya is produced by Dinesh Vijan, Jyoti Deshpande & Laxman Utekar.

This eagerly awaited movie is scheduled for a release, leading to Valentine, on 9th February, 2024!

17 Jan 2024
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MJ – The Musical begins performances in London in March 2024

January 17, 2024 No Comments

Lia Vollack, John Branca and John McClain, producers of the acclaimed Broadway musical MJ, announce casting for the UK premiere production which begins performances at the Prince Edward Theatre, London from Wednesday 6 March 2024.

As previously confirmed, Myles Frost, who originated the role of Michael Jackson in New York and for which he won the Tony Award® for Best Actor in a Musical, will bring his star-making performance to the West End.

He will be joined by Ashley Zhangazha as Joseph Jackson / Rob, Mitchell Zhangazha as Michael, Philippa Stefani as Rachel, Phebe Edwards as Katherine Jackson / Kate, Matt Mills as Berry Gordy / Nick, Rohan Pinnock-Hamilton as Tito Jackson / Quincy Jones, Matt Gonsalves as Alejandro, Jon Tsouras as Dave, Kieran Alleyne as MJ Alternate & Standby for Michael, Kwamé Kandekore Standby for MJ & Michael.

The full cast will include Derek Aidoo, Morgan Baulch, Milan Cacacie, Spencer Darlaston-Jones, Hanna Dimtsu, Aden Dzuda, Marie Finlayson, Christopher Gopaul, Kalisha Johnson, Grace Kanyamibwa, Travis Kerry, Dianté Lodge, Simeon Montague, George Ross, Lydia Sterling, Toyan Thomas-Browne, Taylor Walker, Charlotte-Kate Warren and Tavio Wright.

MJ will also introduce Jaydon Eastman, Elliot Mugume, Ethan Sokontwe and Dylan Trigger as Little Michael, Cristiano Cuino, Sekhani Dumezweni, Khanya Madaka and Aidan Oti as Little Marlon.

For full cast and creative team biographies and further information, see www.mjthemusical.com

He is one of the greatest entertainers of all time. Now, Michael Jackson’s unique and unparalleled artistry comes to the West End stage direct from Broadway in the multiple Tony Award®-winning new musical MJ.  

Centred around the making of his 1992 Dangerous World Tour, MJ goes beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star to offer a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Jackson to legendary status.

MJ delivers a theatrical experience like no other, electrifying audiences with dozens of the most iconic songs in music history, including Billie Jean, Beat It, Man in the Mirror, Thriller and Smooth Criminal. 

17 Jan 2024
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‘Three Of Us’ – Poignant story about cherished memories, acceptance and surrender

January 17, 2024 No Comments

Imagine if you woke up one day and realize your memory was slowly fading away, and there’s no cure. Would you hold on to the present and try to remember as much as possible for the future, or revisit happier times from your past and relive them?

Three of us is story about Shailaja Desai (Shefali Shah), who has been diagnosed with dementia and is grappling with the uncertainty of the disease, and what that means for her and her identity.

Instead of stressing about the future, she chooses to revisit her childhood in a town called Vengurla, where she grew up, went to school, learned to dance, and made friends –perhaps in the hope of reuniting with one friend with whom she shared a special bond with, Pradeep Kamat (Jaideep Ahlawat).

What first appears to be a woman’s hunt to find a long-lost love, soon becomes a heartfelt journey down memory lane with Shailaja, her supportive husband Dipanker Desai (Swanand Kirkire), and a poetic Pradeep.

Shailaja’s past and present explore Vengurla with her, as she reconnects with her roots, her home, the landscapes, her dearest friend and even her trauma.

What’s remarkable about Three of Us, directed by Avinash Arun, is how most of the film plays out in silence, yet conveys a plethora of emotions from beginning to end.

A huge credit for that goes to writers Avinash Arun, Omkar Achyut Barve and Arpita Chatterjee for penning a complex story about relationships and portraying it with such simplicity.

The film is also blessed with a stellar cast that make acting look easy. I couldn’t take my eye off Shefali Shah who emotes with her eyes, body language, and her silence.

Watch out for a scene where she visits her old dance teacher and watches the students perform. She reluctantly joins them to test her memory, which sparks a childlike spirit and evokes a burst of emotions. I cried.

Three of Us starts off as a story about its three central characters, and ends on a poignant note about cherished memories, acceptance, and surrender.

15 Jan 2024
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‘Fighter’ Trailer release – touted as India’s Biggest Aerial Action film

January 15, 2024 No Comments

The anticipation reaches new heights as the much-awaited trailer for India’s Biggest Aerial Action film, ‘Fighter,’ takes flight today. Helmed by blockbuster director Siddharth Anand and presented by Viacom18 Studios in association with Marflix Pictures, ‘Fighter’ is set to redefine cinematic excellence with a thrilling combination of adrenaline-pumping action sequences along with the spirit of patriotism, offering a perfect blend of entertainment and emotion.

Featuring a compelling script and a stellar cast, including Hrithik Roshan, Deepika Padukone, and Anil Kapoor’s powerhouse performances, ‘Fighter’ trailer takes the audience on an epic journey with the elite unit of the Indian Air Force – the Air Dragons. The squad members embark on a mission to safeguard India’s skies and the nation by confronting looming threats. The trailer beautifully encapsulates the camaraderie, courage, and sacrifice of these heroes, making ‘Fighter’ a must-watch for everyone across generations.

The trailer, unveiled today, promises an unparalleled visual spectacle filled with stunning visuals and heart-stopping moments. Packed with state-of-the-art visual effects in 3D and 3D IMAX formats, ‘Fighter’ guarantees to deliver a fully packed entertainment extravaganza for viewers.

Scheduled to hit theatres on the eve of India’s 75th Republic Day, January 25th, 2024, ‘Fighter’ is a cinematic spectacle that audiences cannot afford to miss.

Get ready to witness a journey of courage, sacrifice, and triumph, as ‘Fighter’ soars to new heights of cinematic excellence. ‘Fighter’ releases in cinemas and IMAX 3D on 25th January.

12 Jan 2024
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‘Succession’ Season 4, Episode 3: A Masterclass in the Art of Storytelling

January 12, 2024 No Comments

If you’ve seen Succession Season 4, Episode 3 – then continue reading. The rest of you, watch the series and come back here… because major spoilers ahead.

Succession is the perfect example of how to marry a gripping and crisp narrative with brilliant actors.

And Episode 3 in Season 4 is a masterclass in the art of storytelling and giving the audience an extremely emotional immersive experience.

It starts with the sudden demise of Logan Roy, the father.

All 4 siblings are seen together at Connor’s wedding. However, each is informed about their father’s passing in turns and given an opportunity to, in their own way, say their piece, make amends and bid him goodbye, except Connor. The viewer is made to experience the event from the perspective of primarily Kendall, Shiv and Roman, the “rightful successors”, who’ve been central to the conflict with Logan in the whole series.

First is Roman who deeply cares for his father but tends to hide behind filthy humour and perhaps even self-harm, begins by reassuring Logan of being a good father before he breaks down into tears.

Then is Kendall, who is a rebel without a cause constantly butting heads with his dad to prove his self-worth. His last words to Logan reflect his conflicting emotions of love and resentment.

Followed by Shiv, a daughter simply reacting against her father out of spite even though she inherently finds comfort, warmth, and protection in his presence. And then there’s was Connor

The entire sequence is basically a summary of their respective relationship and conflict with him, and the fact that they ultimately just sought his validation and approval.

But did it feel odd that we, the viewer, didn’t get to see Logan’s face while he was collapsed on the aircraft? We heard Tom describing the events and activities to the Roy siblings, and we saw a staff member doing chest compressions. But at no point do we see Logan’s face.

In that moment, the viewer was reduced to a state similar to that of the Roy kids, feeling the same sense of denial, panic, helplessness, grief, and gut-wrenching loss.

Just like Kendall, Shiv and Roman, we too are robbed of any chance of seeing or communicating with Logan ever again. We too are left with the distress of processing death of a parent. Hence, feeling sympathy for the kids.

The viewer has to learn to cope with this devastating turn of events, just like every character in the series.

Even in the later episodes, only Connor visits Logan’s body which is not revealed to us or witnessed by any other character. Once again, showing the narrative from the POV of Roman, Kendall and Shiv.

It’s one of the greatest episodes I’ve ever seen that makes the audience a part of this world.