Reprising the role of Neeti Singh, season on season, in Delhi Crime is a special feeling, says Rasika Dugal. “The show’s intensity always leaves a mark on me,” smiles the actor, who began shooting for the third edition of the Shefali Shah-led police procedural drama in late 2024. While the second instalment focused more on her character’s personal life, the upcoming season will delve into the upright cop’s professional challenges. Currently shooting the Netflix series in Mumbai, Dugal shares, “Neeti is very close to my heart. We filmed the first season in January 2018, and we are now in 2025 as we film the third. It has been such an interesting experience to grow along with the character. It’s not often that one gets to have an experience like this as a performer. I have been following the same police officer I [shadowed] since season 1 as prep for the show.” While fans await the next chapter of Delhi Crime, Dugal has another fan-favourite character on her plate—Beena Tripathi from Mirzapur. She will reprise the role in Mirzapur: The Film that is expected to go on floors later this year. “Beena’s journey is far from over. She always finds new ways to surprise me,” she teases. Busy with the two projects for the better part of the year, Dugal says 2025 will be a mix of the old and new for her. “There will be some subsequent seasons like Adhura 2, and some new work like Rohan Sippy’s Unreal. I’m also looking forward to the release of two films that have been doing the festival rounds, Little Thomas, and Lord Curzon Ki Haveli.”
18 January,2025 07:21 AM IST | Mumbai | Mohar BasuActor Abhishek Banerjee, who is known for ‘Stree’, ‘Bhediya’, ‘Stree 2’, and is gearing up for the release of the upcoming edition of his OTT show ‘Paatal Lok’, has penned two episodes from the show’s latest season However, Abhishek hasn’t contributed to the show this time as an actor. Season 2 of ‘Paatal Lok’ packs a punch promising a gripping crime thriller. It is set in the northeastern state of Nagaland, and sees the lead character of Hathi Ram Chaudhary (essayed by Jaideep Ahlawat) teaming up with his ally Imran Ansari (played by Ishwak Singh) to investigate the mysterious disappearance of a migrant worker tied to a perilous drug syndicate. As the case deepens, he unravels a web of secrets, battling systemic corruption and powerful adversaries while confronting his own inner demons. The investigation takes a toll on Hathi Ram’s personal relationships, testing his resilience. With the truth elusive and stakes higher than ever, Season 2 promises an intense, edge-of-the-seat experience. The show also stars Gul Panag, Tillotama Shome and Nagesh Kukunoor. Earlier, Sudip Sharma, the creator and showrunner of the show spoke with IANS, and said that the lead character of Hathi Ram Chaudhary is a very spiritually evolved character. He told IANS, “Hathi Ram Chaudhary is a very spiritually evolved man. But you don't see him like that. When we talk of spiritually evolved characters, we think of characters who have very complex philosophies. Hathi Ram is not that.He is very clear about his right and wrong. He has a very strong moral compass, and he sticks to that. No force in the world can ever make him change his stance on that. If this is right, then it is right. If this is wrong, then it is wrong”. He further mentioned, “No matter who you are, standing in front of him, telling him to do the other thing or to look the other way, he is not going to do that. And that's what I really like about him. So when someone says that Hathiram looks exactly the same, he hasn't changed or he behaves the same, he has already reached that place in life. He has already found this zen space that we all hope to find in our lives. He doesn't have restlessness in him. Hathiram has a firmness in him”. The second season of the show is set to drop on Prime Video on January 17. 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
17 January,2025 11:43 AM IST | Mumbai | IANSThere is good news for Marvel fans as 'Daredevil' is officially making a return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Disney on Wednesday evening unveiled the trailer for the much-awaited series 'Daredevil: Born Again', which will premiere on Disney+ on March 4 this year. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Matt Murdock (@daredevil) The series marks the reintroduction of Charlie Cox as 'Daredevil', aka Matt Murdock, along with other iconic characters from the original Netflix series. Fans last saw Daredevil in the 2022 Disney+ series She-Hulk: Attorney at Law, where he appeared opposite Tatiana Maslany's Jennifer Walters. He also made brief appearances in Spider-Man: No Way Home and Echo. However, Born Again will serve as his first lead TV role in the MCU since the Netflix show ended after three seasons. Check out the trailer The story will follow Matt Murdock, a blind lawyer with heightened abilities, as he fights for justice in his law firm while navigating his dual identity as Daredevil. The series also sees the return of Vincent D'Onofrio as Kingpin, Jon Bernthal as Punisher, Deborah Ann Woll as Karen Page, Elden Henson as Foggy Nelson, and Ayelet Zurer as Vanessa Marianna. As per Deadline, the Daredevil: Born Again logline reads, "Matt Murdock (Cox), a blind lawyer with heightened abilities, is fighting for justice through his bustling law firm, while former mob boss Wilson Fisk (D'Onofrio) pursues his political endeavours in New York. When their past identities begin to emerge, both men find themselves on an inevitable collision course." The series is helmed by showrunner Dario Scardapane along with executive producers Kevin Feige, Louis D'Esposito, Brad Winderbaum, Sana Amanat, Chris Gary, Christopher Ord, Matthew Corman, Justin Benson, and Aaron Moorhead. Episodes are directed by Michael Cuesta, Jeffrey Nachmanoff, David Boyd, and the duo Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead. 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
17 January,2025 08:46 AM IST | Los Angeles | ANISharing the screen with talented artistes like Zeenat Aman, Bhumi Pednekar and Ishaan Khatter in one’s second acting job can be daunting. But singer-turned-actor Lisa Mishra believes The Royals has made her a better performer. Not only that, while shooting for the Netflix series, she developed an unexpected bond with co-star Pednekar. “Bhumi’s passion and dedication to her craft is deeply inspiring. Whether we were shooting intense scenes or unwinding during breaks, her energy was infectious. She has the ability to make everyone feel comfortable and valued. For me, working with her feels more like a sisterhood than just doing a job,” says Mishra, who made her acting debut with Call Me Bae (2024). Spending time with Pednekar on set was a learning experience for the actor. Mishra says her co-star offered guidance during the shoot, which elevated her performance. She adds, “Watching her prepare for scenes, I realised how important it is to dig deep and connect emotionally with the material. She challenged me to push my own boundaries. I’ve always admired Bhumi from afar, but working together on The Royals gave me the chance to see her as not just a performer but also as a person. She is warm, thoughtful, and makes you feel heard—qualities that aren’t always easy to find in this industry. It’s rare to leave a project with both great memories and a great friend.” The series, slated to stream next month, is a romantic comedy set against the modern-day Indian royalty.
17 January,2025 07:22 AM IST | Mumbai | Mohar BasuBaat Pakki, the web show everyone's talking about, is now live, with the first episode available for streaming on TTT’s YouTube channel. This series marks the exciting debut of Apoorva, aka The Rebel Kid, alongside the talented Shray Rai Tiwari, in a captivating story that explores the journey of two very different individuals as they navigate love, compromise, and celebration, all while blending modern digital life with traditional rituals. Apoorva and Shray Tiwari to star together in Baat Pakki Presented by TTT in association with Himalaya Wellness Company, Manyavar & Mohey, and supported by category partners Gillette and Philips Garment Steamers, Baat Pakki brings together an exceptional cast. Apoorva and Shray Rai Tiwari deliver standout performances in a narrative that feels both fresh and relatable. The music, composed by Akshay & IP, Charan, Tanishq Seth, and Shreya Gupta, adds a rich emotional layer to the story. Apoorva on Baat Pakki Baat Pakki offers a fresh canvas for The Rebel Kid to showcase her acting chops and connect with fans in an entirely new way. Commenting on her role, Apoorva (The Rebel Kid) said, “I’ve always believed in the power of authentic storytelling, and Baat Pakki feels like a celebration of everything we cherish about weddings in India but with a unique narrative. This being my first YouTube web show, I couldn’t have asked for a better platform or a more incredible team to bring this story to life and it has been an enriching experience. I’m thrilled that my fans will see a new side of me in this role. I have loved connecting with my audience through different media, across formats, and with this project, I am looking forward to bringing to them a new dimension of the Apoorva that they know.” Who is Apoorva Mukhija? Apoorva Mukhija, also known as "The Rebel Kid" on Instagram is a Gen Z social media personality and content creator. She's known for her humorous and straightforward content on Instagram. She had previously made a special appearance on the web series 'Who's you Gynac? starring Saba Azad.
16 January,2025 09:11 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentVikramaditya Motwane couldn’t have asked for a better start to 2025. The creator-director is receiving wide praise for Black Warrant, fronted by Zahan Kapoor. The Netflix series is his fourth work in the past two years after Jubilee (2023), Indi(r)a’s Emergency (2023) and CTRL (2024). “I am making up for lost time. During the Phantom [Films] years, I produced more than I directed. I want to direct more now,” says the filmmaker. Zahan Kapoor in Black Warrant Motwane has another wish too. The filmmaker, whose last theatrical release was Bhavesh Joshi Superhero in 2018, hopes to return to the big screen. At a time when spectacles are believed to be the ticket to box-office success, does he think smaller films can shine on the big screen? “Many have been saying from the past six-seven years that the theatrical outing will become about films that are worthy of the big-screen experience and the ticket price. Unfortunately smaller films aren’t getting a chance to breathe at the box office. Different rules need to be applied for them. [Earlier], you had no option but to buy a ticket to watch a Newton [2017] or a Masaan [2015]. While streaming has made things easier, it has also taken those films away from theatres,” he rues. His filmmaker-friend Anurag Kashyap recently lambasted the Hindi film industry, saying it was becoming difficult to make his brand of cinema here and that he was moving to Kochi to work in the Malayalam film industry. Does Motwane have similar plans? “I’m not going anywhere for now,” he laughs.
16 January,2025 07:17 AM IST | Mumbai | Priyanka SharmaFilmmaker M Night Shyamalan is facing a trial over allegations that he copied from an independent film to make the streaming show, Servant. The show streams on Apple TV+. Francesca Gregorini, an Italy born director, is suing Shyamalan and Apple for $81 million, alleging that the show stole key elements from her 2013 movie, The Truth about Emanuel. Her attorney, Patrick Arenz, showed jurors clips of both projects during his opening statement on Tuesday in federal court in Riverside, California. As per reports, he argued that both depict a delusional mother who cares for a doll as though it is a real baby, and a nanny who is complicit in the delusion. “This is a simple case,” Arenz told the jury. “There would be no Servant without Emanuel”. Shyamalan sat behind the defense attorneys, alongside producer Taylor Latham and Matt Cherniss, the head of programming at Apple TV+. Tony Basgallop, the British writer who created the series, sat at the defense counsel table, while Gregorini sat with her lawyers at the plaintiffs’ table. When it was the defense’s turn, attorney Brittany Amadi argued that Basgallop began developing the show years before The Truth about Emanuel was released, and that those involved with the show never drew on the film. Gregorini sued in January 2020, shortly after Servant, debuted on the platform. A federal judge initially threw out the case a few months later, but the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals revived it in 2022, finding a genuine dispute over whether the two works are “substantially similar”. 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
16 January,2025 07:01 AM IST | Mumbai | AgenciesRajkumar Hirani’s upcoming web series is special for the filmmaker for more reasons than one. Apart from marking Hirani’s debut in the digital space, the crime-drama series will also serve as the launch pad for his son, Vir. A source from the creative team tells mid-day that the Disney+ Hotstar offering revolves around two cops who come to terms with their distinct working styles. “Initially, Arshad [Warsi] was to play the role of an old-fashioned cop who likes to solve crimes in his style, while Vikrant [Massey] was set to be seen as a young computer geek who uses technology to solve crimes. It chronicles what transpires when two diverse personalities are brought together to solve crimes. Now, some changes have come into effect. While the six-episode series was to be directed by Hirani’s assistant, Amir Satyaveer Singh, now, Pataal Lok director Avinash Arun has taken his place. Also, because Vikrant is busy with his other commitments, the makers have decided to cast Vir instead.” The 12th Fail (2023) actor has not stepped back from the project, but will now slip into the role of the antagonist. The decision to cast Vir in the show, tentatively titled Pritam Pedro, did not require several rounds of discussions. He has assisted his father during the shoot of Sanju (2018), and has also studied theatre at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, London. He has directed several short films, including The Obituary, and also debuted in a play called Letters From Suresh, directed by Feroz Abbas Khan. “Vir had delivered a 35-minute monologue in it,” reveals the source, adding that the aspiring actor will be undergoing intense physical preparation for his role. “He is adhering to a rigorous diet and training schedule to play the part of a fit cop. He is also brushing up on his knowledge of computers. Since he has been involved in the scripting process, he knows each scene of the series like the back of his hand.”
15 January,2025 07:39 AM IST | Mumbai | Upala KBRThe year marked actor Zahan Kapoor's debut in the world of web series with the much-anticipated show 'Black Warrant'. The series, based on true events, follows the story of Sunil Gupta and his experiences as a jailer in Tihar Jail. While its storyline and complex characters are being liked by viewers, the cast and crew recently sat down with ANI to share their thoughts and experiences working on the show. Zahan Kapoor, who plays a key role in Black Warrant, expressed his happiness after the release of the series. He said, "After the release, everyone is happy, my family and all. They liked my work." He went on to share that his family and friends were pleased with his work, which brought him great joy. When asked about how he chooses his projects, Zahan shared his thoughts. "I am not selective. I do whatever work comes my way. Maybe after this, more opportunities will come. I will be very happy to do lots more work," he said. Rahul Bhat, who plays the character of DSP Rajesh Tomar in the series, spoke about his role. He said, "You play the way you play all the characters. I mean, it's for the audience to decide whether they love him or hate him or whatever. I played Rajesh Tomar. He is the character. This is what he is. And he must have some complaints from his own life, and he has his own philosophy on how he runs this jail. It is not an easy job." Sidhant Gupta, another key actor in the series, talked about his character and the psychological challenges he faced in playing his role. The actor, who plays the infamous 'Charles Sobhraj' in the series, said, "What was complicated was the psychology. The rest of it just followed. I wanted to have fun with it because otherwise, it gets too dark for me." Black Warrant is based on the real-life experiences of Sunil Gupta, a former Tihar Jail superintendent, and his journey as a jailer. The series also touches on prison life's complex political and human aspects. Through its gritty yet human-centered narrative, Black Warrant shows how the lives of inmates, some of whom may be innocent, are affected by a flawed system. Satyanshu Singh shared his perspective on the story and said, "I have never written anything like this, so during the research, I realized that 80 to 90 percent of the inmates are innocent. So looking at inmates with hatred or anger doesn't make sense. The system is flawed in many ways." The series, which premiered on Netflix on January 10, 2025, is directed by Vikramaditya Motwane and Satyanshu Singh, with co-directors Ambiecka Pandit, Arkesh Ajay, and Rohin Raveendran Nair. It is presented by Applause Entertainment in collaboration with Andolan Production and Confluence Media. The series is inspired by the book Black Warrant: Confessions of a Tihar Jailer by Sunil Gupta and journalist-author Sunetra Choudhury. 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
14 January,2025 08:15 AM IST | New York | ANIWhen it comes to the film industry, no news usually means bad news. That, however, is not the case for the web series based on Student of the Year, which, after being announced a year ago, was barely discussed in mainstream media. But the absence of news around the series, we learn, doesn’t imply that the Karan Johar-backed project has been shelved. A source tells mid-day that work on the show is underway with director Reema Maya currently looking for her leading man. “While Alaya F and Shanaya Kapoor have already been confirmed as the lead actresses, the hunt for a male lead is underway. Reema Maya has a distinct vision for this series. Unlike the films, which had a glossy and [flamboyant] appearance, the web series will have a modern and edgy feel. It’s still set in the same world, but will focus on the interpersonal dynamics between the characters,” says the source. Maya, known for her critically acclaimed project Nocturnal Burger (2023), is determined to present the franchise in a new light. “She’s looking for someone who can complement Alaya and Shanaya, and also bring a certain gravitas to the role. This franchise has catapulted newcomers to stardom. So, this is a golden opportunity for male actors. Open casting calls are being made for both primary and secondary roles, and Karan has stated that the decision rests with Reema,” says the source, adding that the team has locked the month of April for the shoot. “Locations are currently being scouted.”
14 January,2025 07:38 AM IST | Mumbai | Mohar BasuThe newest Netflix release, Black Warrant, has the entire nation on edge. Following the release of this dark and gripping series, netizens are hailing it. Here's how X has reviewed Vikramaditya Motwane's thriller. Black Warrant's X review One user wrote, “#BlackWarrantOnNetflix is a gripping adaptation of life within Tihar's walls, told through the eyes of a jailer. The cast delivers outstanding performances, bringing their characters to life with remarkable finesse. Hats off to the makers for crafting a binge-worthy show! Thoroughly enjoyed it.” “#BlackWarrantOnNetflix is brilliant and the makers have kept it as real as possible. The seven part series picks the most sensational cases and is worth bingeing. This particular scene is among the many standout ones in the series,” another user wrote. A third fan commented, “It's freaking January and #BlackWarrantOnNetflix is already one of the best shows of the year. So thematically dense and resonant prison drama exploring the unique ecosystem of the prison system.” Rahul Bhat & Zahaan Kapoor deserve a standing ovation! My expectations were high, and they delivered. I've said this before, but it bears repeating—we need true performers, and Rahul and Zahan prove they are just that in Black Warrant!@itsRahulBhat @netflix @NetflixIndia — Iraa Paul (@paul_iraa) January 11, 2025 Another comment reads, “Just finished watching Black Warrant on Netflix. While the series is engaging, the book by Sunil Gupta offers a much deeper, more emotional exploration of controversial hangings.” A review reads, “Binged it in one go...If you are looking for a crime thriller series this is the one...casting acting music cinematography direction everything was perfect Black warrant is a must watch. Return of Bingeable Indian content on Netflix finally and that too by Motwane.” While hailing the series, one wrote, “After a long wait, I finally stumbled upon a captivating series on Netflix, ‘Black Warrant', which not only kept me entertained but also offered a revealing glimpse into life behind bars, much like 'Khaaki' had done earlier.” “#BlackWarrantOnNetflix is gripping from start to finish, with brilliant performances, a tight screenplay, and direction. Every other technical department gives firm support. #VikramadityaMotwane proves once again that he knows his craft too well! Highly recommend,” one X user shared. #BlackWarrantOnNetflix is gripping from start to finish, with brilliant performances, a tight screenplay, and direction. Every other technical department gives firm support. #VikramadityaMotwane proves once again that he knows his craft too well! Highly recommend. 👏 — Arshhhh (@ArshTanwar2) January 13, 2025 A netizen hailed Zahan and shared, “Rahul Bhat & Zahaan Kapoor deserve a standing ovation! My expectations were high, and they delivered. I've said this before, but it bears repeating—we need true performers, and Rahul and Zahaan prove they are just that in Black Warrant!” About Black Warrant Created by Vikramaditya Motwane and Satyanshu Singh, Black Warrant is set in the 1980s and portrays life inside Tihar Jail. It is loosely based on the non-fiction book Black Warrant: Confessions of a Tihar Jailer, written by Sunil Gupta. Gupta, who was once the superintendent of Tihar Jail, shares his firsthand experiences of overseeing the executions of notorious criminals like kidnappers Billa-Ranga and Kashmiri separatist Maqbool Bhat.
13 January,2025 04:59 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
