With the 97th Academy Awards just two months away, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has revealed the names of 207 feature films that are eligible to contest for this year's Oscars in the Best Picture category. While there are several movies eyeing the award, there are about seven Indian films that have secured a spot on the list, and the Indian movies that have managed to secure a place in the longlist are of different languages. Indian films included in the longlist The Indian films included in the longlist are Kanguva (Tamil), Aadujeevitham (The Goat Life) (Hindi), Santosh (Hindi), Swatantrya Veer Savarkar (Hindi), All We Imagine as Light (Malayalam-Hindi), Girls Will Be Girls (Hindi-English), and Putul (Bengali). One of the most shocking selections in the category came with the Suriya-starrer Kanguva. More about Kanguva Kanguva, directed by Siruthai Siva, was one of the most expensive Indian films ever made, with a budget of Rs 300–350 crore. However, the release of the movie came with a heartbreaking result as the film was not received well by the audience. The epic fantasy action drama failed to impress the audience and bombed at the box office, earning merely one-third of its budget. Now, the Suriya-starrer getting a spot on the list has come as a shocker for netizens. Netizens reaction to Kanguva’s selection To note, there were 323 feature films selected as eligible for the 97th Academy Awards, out of which 207 movies meet the requirements for the Best Picture category, among which Suriya's Kanguva also gained a spot. While reacting to the news, some sent best wishes to the team, while many questioned the choice. A curious user wrote, "When did they send #Kanguva to the Oscars?" "Oscar for cringe category?" another one wrote. A third netizen commented, "No way." A user, while questioning the choice, wrote, "Is this for real 😂😂?" "I just need this kind of confidence in life," another wrote. A user commented, "Best joke of 2025." One comment reads, "With so many great films this year, Kanguva at the Oscars feels like a plot twist no one asked for." Meanwhile, many couldn't resist dropping laughing emojis.
07 January,2025 05:27 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActor Allu Arjun visited KIMS Hospital in Begumpet, Hyderabad, to meet Sri Teja, the child who was seriously injured during the tragic incident at Sandhya Theatre.The incident, which occurred on December 4, 2024, during the premiere of 'Pushpa 2: The Rule', resulted in the death of a woman named Revathi and left her child, Sri Teja, in critical condition. #WATCH | Hyderabad, Telangana: Actor Allu Arjun leaves from KIMS hospital, Begumpet after visiting Sri Teja who was injured in the Sandhya theatre incident. pic.twitter.com/P83efBBES0 — ANI (@ANI) January 7, 2025 The visit comes amidst Allu Arjun's ongoing legal proceedings related to the chaos that unfolded when the actor waved to the crowd from the sunroof of his car, during the 'Pushpa 2' premiere.Allu Arjun expressed his concern for the injured child, who had been on a ventilator for several weeks following the incident.As of December 24, 2024, there had been positive signs of recovery, with Sri Teja reportedly responding for the first time after being unresponsive for 20 days.His father, Bhaskar, expressed gratitude for Allu Arjun's support, saying, "The child responded after 20 days. He is responding today. Allu Arjun and the Telangana government are supporting us."In addition to his visit to Sri Teja, Allu Arjun has been fulfilling his legal obligations.On January 5, 2025, Allu Arjun complied with the conditions set by the Nampally Court by visiting the Chikkadpally Police Station as part of the bail process.The actor had been granted regular bail following the incident, but the court imposed certain conditions, including attendance at the police station.This visit was a necessary part of the ongoing legal process stemming from the tragic events at Sandhya Theatre.Earlier, on January 4, Allu Arjun appeared before the Metropolitan Criminal Court at Nampally, where he submitted the required sureties and executed a bond of Rs 50,000.His arrival was met with heightened security, as police personnel escorted him through a crowd of media representatives.After the court's decision, his lawyer, Ashok Reddy, addressed the press and confirmed that the actor had been granted bail on the grounds that the incident was not deemed "culpable homicide not amounting to murder."Reddy further clarified, "The conditions have been imposed that he (Allu Arjun) has to attend the police station. Bail has been granted... The court was convinced that this was not a case of culpable homicide not amounting to murder. Therefore, the court granted bail."He also mentioned that a quash petition is pending before the Telangana High Court, with the next hearing scheduled for January 21, 2025.The tragic sequence of events began when a large crowd gathered outside Sandhya Theatre to catch a glimpse of the star during the 'Pushpa 2' premiere.As Allu Arjun waved to fans from his car's sunroof, the situation quickly spiralled out of control. During the chaos, Revathi tragically lost her life, and her son, Sri Teja, sustained serious injuries, leading to his hospitalization.To support the victim, Allu Arjun also extended financial assistance to the bereaved family.His father, film producer Allu Aravind, announced a contribution of Rs 2 crore to help the family of Revathi, who tragically passed away in the incident.
07 January,2025 12:15 PM IST | Mumbai | ANIAbout a month after Dhanush sent a legal notice to Nayanthara and Vignesh Shivan demanding Rs 10 crore for the use of Naanum Rowdy Dhaan footage in their Netflix documentary, there were reports of Sivaji Productions, the banner behind Chandramukhi, demanding Rs 5 crore as well. However, the production house has quashed the same and issued a clarification on the matter. Chandramukhi producers did not demand Rs 5 cr from Nayanthara Sivaji Productions explained that Nayanthara indeed obtained an NOC (No Objection Certificate) for the use of Chandramukhi footage in her documentary. A picture of the NOC has been shared on X. The certificate states, “This is to certify that Sivaji Productions has no objection to the use of the following footage in the Netflix documentary Nayanthara: Beyond the Fairy Tale.” “We further declare that we shall hold Rowdy Pictures (along with affiliates, licensees/sub-licensees, and assigns) harmless from any claims and/or disputes arising out of the use of the video footage as authorized under the certificate/letter,” it added. Chandramukhi team claiming ₹5⃣ cr compensation from Nayanthara netflix documentary is UNTRUE✖️ pic.twitter.com/FD7VfdCc4X — Manobala Vijayabalan (@ManobalaV) January 6, 2025 Nayanthara’s legal dispute with Dhanush Lady Superstar Nayanthara stirred controversy with an open letter to actor Dhanush over his lawsuit against her for using footage from the movie Naanum Rowdy Dhaan in her wedding documentary. The dispute polarised fans and the public. An excerpt from the open letter read, “It's almost been 10 years since the release of the film and it is a long time for someone to continue to be this vile while wearing a mask in front of the world. I have not forgotten all the horrible things that you said about the film that was one of your biggest hits as a producer and a film that is loved by all even today.” In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter India, Nayanthara said that she tried to reach out to the actor to understand the issue. “The controversy happened because I spoke out and I wanted to speak in public. Because I personally and genuinely tried to reach out to him so that I can have a direct answer (as to) why and what’s the issue.” She asserted that any attempts made to connect with Dhanush failed, hence she had to take the social media route.
07 January,2025 10:22 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentDirector Adhik Ravichandran's eagerly awaited action entertainer, 'Good Bad Ugly', featuring actor Ajith Kumar in the lead, is to hit screens on April 10 this year. The director took to social media platform X to announce the release date. He wrote, "#GoodBadUgly arrives on April 10th @MythriOfficial." The producers of the film, Mythri Movie Makers, for their part, announced, " Maamey...date locked for VERA LEVEL ENTERTAINMENT #GoodBadUgly is coming to the BIG SCREENS on 10th April, 2025 " #GoodBadUgly arrives on April 10th❤️🙏🏻 @MythriOfficial @SureshChandraa pic.twitter.com/K6N1x7uANT — Adhik Ravichandran (@Adhikravi) January 6, 2025 About Good Bad Ugly The film, which originally was supposed to have music by Devi Sri Prasad, will now have music by G V Prakash. Cinematography for the film is by Abinandhan Ramanujam and editing is by Vijay Velukutty. Stunts for the film have been choreographed by Supreme Sundar and Kaloian Vodenicharov. Interestingly, 'Good Bad Ugly' was originally scheduled to release for Pongal when it went on floors in June last year. If rumours doing the rounds in the industry are to be believed, Ajith is playing triple roles in this explosive action entertainer. The film, which will feature Trisha along with Ajith in the lead, will also have a series of powerful performers like Arjun Das, Prasanna and Sunil in pivotal roles. Vidaa Muyarchi gets delayed The news of 'Good Bad Ugly' releasing on April 10 is bound to gladden the hearts of Ajith's fans who were in for a bit of disappointment on new year's eve because of Ajith's other film 'Vidaa Muyarchi' suddenly pulling out of the Pongal race. Just 10 days before its scheduled release on January 10, 2025, the makers announced that the film's release has been postponed. Announcing about the latest update, the production house Lyra took to X and wrote, "Wishing everyone a happy, joyous New Year! Due to unavoidable circumstances, our film Vidaamuyarchi will not be releasing on Pongal day. We wish all our fans and well-wishers a prosperous year ahead." It added, "Kindly stay tuned for further updates! The wait will be worth it!” They are yet to announce a new release date for the film. 'Vidaa Muyarchi', which has been directed by gifted director Magizh Thirumeni, had raised huge expectations and fans were hoping to celebrate the festival of Pongal with its release. However, the producers of Vidaa Muyarchi, Lycaa Productions, on December 31 announced that the film's release had been postponed "due to unavoidable circumstances." (With inputs from IANS)
06 January,2025 10:21 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentUnni Mukundan-starrer Marco is running successfully in theatres across the India. The Malayalam language film directed by Haneef Adeni has become the most successful Hindi-dubbed film from the region at the box office. Even as the film continues to run successfully in theatres, there have been rumours about the OTT release of the film. Usually, films are released on OTT following the completion of a four-week theatrical run. Marco not been sold to any OTT platform While there are rumours of Marco landing on an OTT platform soon, the makers have dismissed the reports. They have cleared the air on the film's OTT release and said that any news of the film's release on streaming will be communicated through their official handles. The official statement reads: "We would like to address recent rumours circulating regarding the OTT release of our film Marco. Let us clarify that as of now, we have not signed any agreements or confirmed any deals with any OTT platforms. Any claims or news stating otherwise are entirely fake and misleading. Marco was created as a cinematic experience and we are thrilled to see audiences enjoying the film in theatres. The movie is still running successfully on the big screen and we strongly encourage you to watch it in theaters to experience the intensity, visuals, and sound design the way it was meant to be experienced. If and when any decisions regarding an OTT release are finalised, we will officially share the news with everyone through our verified platforms. Until then, we kindly request that everyone refrain from spreading or believing in fake news about the film's OTT release. We deeply value the love and support you've shown for Marco so far. Let's continue to celebrate the film by enjoying it at your nearest theatres. Once again, thank you for standing by us, and we promise to keep you updated on all official developments." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cubes Entertainments®️ (@cubesentertainments) Marco enjoys dream run at box office Running strong on word of mouth, the film made its way to audiences outside of Kerala. The film's Hindi version has grossed over Rs 9 crore so far and is expected to do better. It has beat the Hindi dubbed versions of Dulquer Salmaan's Sita Ramam and Prithviraj's Aadujeevitham (The Goat Life).
06 January,2025 09:56 PM IST | MumbaiJr NTR’s Devara Part 1 created buzz but delivered an unimpressive performance at the box office, sparking speculation about the sequel’s cancellation. However, a source close to the production confirms that Devara Part 2 is in the scripting stage, with the cast set to begin shooting by early 2026. “It will be bigger than its prequel, with all the characters having more evolved arcs. Vara (Jr NTR), Thangam (Kapoor), Bhaira (Saif Ali Khan), Singappa (Prakash Raj), Task Force Chief Shivam (Ajay), and Rayappa (Meka Srikanth) will return to the screen in a more dynamic way,” the source reveals. They add that, Vara’s character will have more screen time. “The reason why Vara killed his own father will also be revealed. Devara Part 2 will be set in more contemporary times.” While the makers plan to retain the cast, they also anticipate new additions. The sequel will feature more underwater sequences to amplify its larger-than-life appeal, and “the action will get bloodier.” “The scripting process for Devara Part 2, led by director Koratala Siva and his dedicated team, has begun in earnest. The makers plan to pick up from the cliffhanger in Part 1,” says the source. The filming schedule for Jr NTR remains undecided, as he is committed to Ayan Mukerji’s War 2 and Prashanth Neel’s period drama (tentatively titled Dragon), both expected to conclude by the end of the year.
06 January,2025 09:03 PM IST | Mumbai | Upala KBRAfter a public controversy following a legal notice from Dhanush, actress Nayanthara has been served yet another notice for her Netflix wedding documentary. The makers of her film 'Chandramukhi' have filed a legal notice alleging unauthorised use of footage from the 2005 blockbuster in the documentary. Dhanush's legal complaint was on similar grounds. Reportedly, the makers of Chandramukhi are unhappy with the use of a clip from the film in the documentary without prior permission. The documentary which largely centers around Nayanthara's journey in the movies and her love story with Vignesh Shivan includes clips from her films also well. Chandramukhi makers have issued a notice to Nayanthara and Netflix demanding compensation of reportedly Rs 5 crore. Nayanthara is yet to respond to the notice. About Nayanthara and Dhanush controversy Tamil stars Nayanthara and Dhanush made headlines after the actress published an open letter criticizing the latter for sending her a Rs 10 cr notice for using a BTS clip from their movie 'Naanum Rowdy Dhaan' for the Netflix documentary on Nayanthara's life and love story with Vignesh Shivan. In the letter, she also accused Dhanush of harbouring a personal grudge against her and her husband, filmmaker Vignesh Shivan. She mentioned that it was a 'low' move to demand Rs 10 crore from them to use a three-second snippet of songs from Naanum Rowdy Dhaan. Describing Dhanush as a "vile" person, she wrote, "It's almost been 10 years since the release of the film, and it is a long time for someone to continue to be this vile while wearing a mask in front of the world. I have not forgotten all the horrible things that you said about the film that was one of your biggest hits as a producer and a film that is loved by all even today. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter India, Nayanthara said that she tried to reach out to the actor to understand the issue. “The controversy happened because I spoke out and I wanted to speak in public. Because I personally and genuinely tried to reach out to him so that I can have a direct answer (as to) why and what’s the issue," Nayanthara said. She revealed that her husband and director of Naanum Rowdy Dhaan, Vignesh Shivan, made several calls to Dhanush’s manager and even she connected with the manager to resolve the issue but couldn’t get through to the actor. She also said that she tried to reach out to him through their common friends but failed to connect with him. “When the trailer released, the BTS footage that was captured on our phones before, the thing that people don’t understand that… There are a lot of people saying that ‘It is his footage, it’s his rights.’ We are not at all talking about the clips from the film. BTS is a part of the contract only now. This was 10 years before, there were people randomly taking pictures and videos on phones. And these were random videos on our phones. So this was the thing we used, which is hardly anything. Even after so much issues that were created by him or his people, I would say, when the trailer came out, anybody who is a little bit sorted, would have let it be," she explained.
06 January,2025 05:54 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe brutality with which heinous crimes are committed in the recently released Malayalam film is not for the soft-hearted. Considered one of the most violent films seen in Indian cinema, the Malayalam movie Marco has been making news for its element of violence. The film directed by Haneef spares no one and nothing. From kids, dogs and human, every living being become a victim of brutal death in the film. In the movie involving the killing of kids, your heart may skip more than beat. But turns out, shooting the scene was all fun for the kids. Recently, Unni Mukundan who plays the lead in the film and the titular role shared a BTS video from the film. The pre-climax scene featured brutal and cold-blooded murder of kids that is sure to make you feel uncomfortable as an audience. In the video shared by the actor, we can seen the kids goofing around on set with the senior actors including the antagonist who is supposed to murder them in the scene. Take a look: Behind all the intensity and action-packed brutality of #Marco, there’s a whole lot of fun and laughter happening on set! 🎬✨Our young stars and crew members brought so much joy and energy, reminding us that even amidst the chaos of filmmaking, there’s always room for… pic.twitter.com/RxGxiNXqpS — Unni Mukundan (@Iamunnimukundan) January 4, 2025 About the film Marco The film has been in the news for its extremely violent depiction. Several have been calling it the most violent film to come from India is recent memory. The film narrates the story of Marco and his love and loyalty towards his family who adopted him as a kid. Marco is known as a devil in the family who would go to any extent to save his family from harm. Therefore when Marco's younger brother, Victor, a brilliant blind man, is brutally murdered, he takes charge to end the culprits. In the process, we see the 'devil' side of Marco as he goes on a killing spree. His family also gets in the harm's way in the course of the film and some of the murder scenes include brutal methods of killing. The film that also stars Siddiqui and Jagadish has been lauded for its plot and stylised action sequences very meticulously performed by the lead actor. Baby John shows being replaced by Marco Marco was released in theatres on December 20. According to a Bollywood Hungama report, Varun Dhawan's Baby John shows have been replaced by Marco’s Hindi version. Unni Mukundan, took to X recently and shared that about 140 extra shows were being added for Marco's Hindi version. Unni took to his X and wrote, "140+ extra shows added in Hindi for M🅰️RCO." The entertainment portal while talking about the Baby John shows, quoted a source saying, "There’s a curiosity to see it (Marco) as many are claiming that Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s ultra-violent film Animal (2023) looks like a kiddie movie in front of Marco because of its excessive violent scenes. Hence, there’s a demand for it, and Baby John’s shows are being replaced with that of Marco and also films like Pushpa 2 and Mufasa: The Lion King." Baby John also had Allu Arjun-starrer Pushpa 2: The Rule to contend with during its release, despite the film entering its fourth week now.
06 January,2025 04:53 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentNearly a month after the Pushpa 2 premiere stampede that killed one woman and led to Allu Arjun’s arrest, two fans of Ram Charan died a tragic death while returning from Game Changer event in Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh. The event was also attended by the Chief Minister and Ram’s uncle Pawan Kalyan. Producer Dil Raju has promised an ex-gratia of Rs 10 lakh to the bereaved families. Two Ram Charan fans die after attending Game Changer event According to reports, Arava Manikanta and Thokada Charan from Gaigolupadu in Kakinda breathed their last on Saturday night after attending the event. After spending time at the event with their friends, they were struck by an oncoming van from the opposite direction. The two, who were riding a bike, were rushed to the hospital but succumbed to their injuries. Police have registered a case and are investigating the matter. Dil Raju donates Rs 10 lakh to bereaved families The production house behind Game Changer, Sri Venkateswara Creations took to X and wrote, “Producer #DilRaju garu announced ₹10 lakhs and assured support to the families of the two individuals who tragically lost their lives in the accident following the #GameChanger event. Our deepest condolences to their loved ones in this difficult time.” Producer #DilRaju garu announced ₹10 lakhs and assured support to the families of the two individuals Aarava Manikanta & Thokaada Charan who tragically lost their lives in the accident following the #GameChanger event. Our deepest condolences to their loved ones in this… — Sri Venkateswara Creations (@SVC_official) January 6, 2025 Dil Raju while interacting with the media stated, “It’s unfortunate when such incidents happen during such happy moments; it’s painful. I will support the families in any way I can, and I want to start by offering them ₹5 lakh each. My condolences to the families.” The Game Changer event was filled with memorable moments, starting with Ram Charan's grand entry, which was met with thunderous applause and chants from an excited crowd. Pawan Kalyan delivered an inspiring speech, lauding Charan’s versatility and unwavering dedication to his craft. Talking about the film is an intense political drama that delves into themes of power, leadership, and transformation. It features a stellar cast, including Bollywood beauty Kiara Advani, Anjali, Srikanth, SJ Suryah, Jayaram, Samuthirakani, Sunil, Brahmanandam, and Rajeev Kanakala. Produced by Dil Raju under Sri Venkateswara Creations, the movie is slated to release on January 10.
06 January,2025 02:26 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentRocking Star Yash, who mesmerised audiences with his KGF franchise, has released a poster for his upcoming film, Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-ups. The poster, brimming with enigma and raw, untamed energy, teases a special surprise from the film's makers to coincide with the superstar’s birthday. The superstar shared the poster on his Instagram. Yash unveils the first poster from Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-ups The actor accompanied the poster with the caption, "Unleashing him…," showcasing a silhouette of Yash clad in a white tuxedo jacket and a fedora, leaning against a vintage car while blowing a ring of smoke. The tagline of the film, "His untamed presence is your existential crisis," hints at a dark and enigmatic journey. The poster evokes mystery, sparking intrigue and fueling speculation about what this forthcoming cinematic endeavour entails. The cryptic message, laden with darkness hints at a gritty and compelling narrative and draws attention to the date 8-1-25, and the time 10:25 AM, when the makers promise to unveil the surprise. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Yash (@thenameisyash) Yash teases a grand surprise for fans on his birthday The date coincides with Yash's birthday and as his birthday approaches, fans are gearing up for what could be one of the biggest cinematic reveals of 2025. The makers have been successful in sparking curiosity and stirring conversations about the film with the poster release. The title 'Fairy Tale for Grown-ups,' creates intrigue and forces audiences to imagine something beyond their expectations. It seems like Yash is attempting to deliver a unique story with his upcoming film. It will be interesting to watch what the actor has to deliver this time, especially with his highly-anticipated collaboration with award-winning director Geetu Mohandas. Jointly produced by Venkat K. Narayana and Yash under KVN Productions and Monster Mind Creations, Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-ups has been directed by Geetu Mohandas, an internationally acclaimed filmmaker. A recipient of numerous accolades, including a National Award and the Global Filmmaking Award at the Sundance Film Festival for her second film Moothon. With her spectacular achievements, fans' expectations from Geetu Mohandas are sky-high especially when the KGF star is headlining the film.
06 January,2025 02:20 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentNithilan Swaminathan's Tamil action thriller Maharaja, starring Vijay Sethupathi, has emerged as the highest-grossing Indian film in China. The film, which was released in November last year in China, has emerged as the highest-grossing Indian film in five years after Aamir Khan's Secret Superstar. The action-thriller, directed by Nithilan Swaminathan, left the Chinese audience in tears as it touched the right chords of the viewers. Vijay Sethupathi's Maharaja’s collecting in China A video of the Chinese audience looking visibly emotional and in tears while watching Vijay Sethupathi's Maharaja has made its way to X (formerly Twitter). The tweet suggested that movies centered around father-daughter relationships somehow manage to move the audience in China. The video attached to the note has fans crying and wiping away tears. "Somehow, father-daughter Indian movies do really well in China. Dangal, Secret Superstar, and now Maharaja,” read the text attached to the post. The Chinese have absolutely loved the 'Maharaja' movie. Vijay Sethupathi is the new global favourite amongst Indian actors surpassing SRK, Amitabh, etc. pic.twitter.com/axQzdJs3CY — Lord Immy Kant (Eastern Exile) (@KantInEast) January 4, 2025 Yu Jing, a spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in India, took to her X handle on Sunday and shared the news of Maharaja's box office performance in the foreign country. She shared a poster of the film and captioned it as, "Maharaja has become the highest-grossing Indian film in China since 2018, reaching ₹91.55 crore. Well done (thumbs up emojis)." Maharaja has become the highest-grossing Indian film in China since 2018, reaching Rs 91.55 crore. Well done👍👍 pic.twitter.com/sq9SUY8D5F — Yu Jing (@ChinaSpox_India) January 5, 2025 Vijay Sethupathi on Maharaja Sethupathi's Maharaja became the first Indian film to release in China post the October 2024 accord to normalize ties between the two countries. Tamil star Vijay Sethupathi, who is receiving a lot of positive responses for his recently released movie Maharaja, shared that his personal experiences as a parent influenced his role in the film. The actor opened up about his relationship with his children, reports Variety. He said, “I have a son and daughter. I love my daughter so much. If she dominates me, I always love that. I call her ‘amma’ (mother) and my son ‘appa’ (father).” The actor emphasized the importance of open communication with his children, often sharing details about his work and even seeking their input. He told Variety, “I keep talking to them, and whenever I go to shoot, if I have any interesting scenes, I talk to them, I share with them.” As per Variety, Sethupathi says he has a keen sense of responsibility for his choice of subject matter and takes his children’s suggestions seriously.
05 January,2025 05:43 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
