The Times of India
Elections 2026Bollywood / The Times of India
'Cocktail 2' has crossed Rs 100 crore worldwide in six days, but faces mixed reactions. Author Shobhaa De criticized its weak storyline and called it inferior to the original. She praised Shahid Kapoor and Sicily but found Rashmika Mandanna unsuited for Hindi films. Saba Ali Pataudi also shared her critique, highlighting issues with the narrative and character treatment, though appreciating performances and music.
Travis Kelce's father, Ed Kelce, is brimming with excitement as a wedding date for his son and global superstar Taylor Swift reportedly approaches. Describing Swift as a sweetheart and he girl next door, Ed expressed his joy about officially welcoming her into the family. Anticipation is high for the July 3, 2026, ceremony, with street closures around Madison Square Garden and extensive guest preparations underway.
Bollywood actor Abhay Deol has opened the doors to his serene Goan glass mansion, a sanctuary designed with minimalistic aesthetics and a deep connection to nature. Embracing a 'live life like you want' philosophy, Deol's home in Assagao prioritizes clean air and peaceful surroundings, featuring high ceilings, earthy tones, and expansive glass windows that blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces.
A captivating behind-the-scenes video for Rajinikanth's upcoming film 'Dharman' has gone viral, revealing the meticulous creation of his striking first look. The footage showcases the Superstar in a menacing doctor's avatar, wielding a knife, and hints at a ruthless character with the iconic dialogue, 'Ketta paiyan sir avan.' Directed by Ashwath Marimuthu and produced by Kamal Haasan, the film is generating immense buzz.
Veteran singer Alka Yagnik, recently seen in a wheelchair at a Padma award ceremony, has reassured fans about her health. She explained that fatigue after a long day led to her using a wheelchair, emphasizing she is recovering well. Yagnik expressed gratitude for the immense love and support received, particularly after opening up about a rare hearing disorder. She conveyed her thanks for the prestigious honour bestowed upon her.
Homi Adajania's 'Cocktail 2' featuring Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, and Rashmika Mandanna is making waves at the box office, having surpassed Rs 100 crore globally and nearing Rs 70 crore in India alone. Although reviews have been mixed, the romantic drama capturing a contemporary love triangle had a robust opening weekend, and its impressive performance on the seventh day suggests it may reach even greater heights soon.
'Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow' is set to hit cinemas soon. The era of female superheroes on the big screen feels bigger and bolder than ever. From Gal Gadot's iconic Wonder Woman to Brie Larson's cosmic Captain Marvel, Hollywood has gifted us some truly powerful leading ladies. As the excitement builds, here is a look back at the seven best female superhero films to watch right now. you can stream all of them on JioHotstar
Fans' long wait for 'Munna Bhai 3' is not in vain, as director Rajkumar Hirani and actor Arshad Warsi confirm the project is actively being developed. While ideas abound, Hirani is meticulously searching for a story that matches the franchise's high standards, not just commercial appeal. Warsi revealed three promising scripts exist, each needing a final piece to connect. The team remains optimistic about reuniting the beloved duo.
Fans of 'The Big Bang Theory' can rejoice as a new spin-off, 'Stuart Fails to Save the Universe,' is on its way. The series sees comic book store owner Stuart Bloom accidentally unleash a multiverse Armageddon after tinkering with a device created by Sheldon and Leonard. He'll team up with familiar faces and new allies to navigate dangerous alternate realities, encountering bizarre scenarios and alternate versions of beloved characters.
The teaser for 'Mirzapur: The Movie' has finally dropped, offering a thrilling glimpse into the return of fan-favorite characters like Kaleen Bhaiyya and Guddu Bhaiyya. Actors Ali Fazal, Pankaj Tripathi, and Divyenndu are back in action, with Jitendra Kumar reprising his role as Bablu Pandit. Ravi Kishan adds a compelling new presence to the Mirzapur storyline.
Elodie Yung is back as Elektra in 'Daredevil: Born Again' Season 3, sporting a new stealth suit and her signature sais. Her return, after seemingly dying in 'The Defenders', sparks speculation about her role as a villain or rekindling her romance with Daredevil. This resurrection follows multiple prior returns for the character, raising questions about her potential MCU debut, especially with The Hand's involvement in upcoming Spider-Man films.
Actress Jyotika has lauded Chidambaram's 'Balan: The Boy' as a masterpiece, urging audiences to experience its gripping narrative and unpredictable twists in theatres. She specifically praised the screenplay, direction, and performances, highlighting newcomers and Tovino Thomas. Suriya also commended the film's unique story and the debutant cast's brilliance. The drama thriller is currently enjoying a successful box office run.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's highly anticipated wedding is reportedly set for July 3, 2026, at New York's iconic Madison Square Garden. Street closures and event permits have been filed, with preparations suggesting a grand celebration. Even the NYC mayor has hinted at the significant event. Notably, the couple is said to have a 'no gifts' policy for their special day.
Ram Charan's sports drama 'Peddi' has crossed Rs 300 crore, and the actor shared a heartwarming anecdote at the success meet. His daughter, Klin Kaara, now affectionately calls him 'Peddi Nanna' after the film's massive reception. Charan expressed profound gratitude for the unique love and affection the movie has garnered, highlighting its special impact on him and thanking director Buchi Babu Sana and mentor Sukumar.
Prithviraj Sukumaran lauded Mammootty as the most flexible actor he's encountered, praising his ability to fully embody characters. Meanwhile, Prithviraj discussed his upcoming film 'I, Nobody,' directed by Nizam Basheer, highlighting its unconventional genre-bending narrative and emphasizing that despite significant action sequences, it's not solely an action film. The movie is set for a July 9 release.
Actress Disha Patani is mourning the loss of her cherished dog, Bella. In a heartfelt tribute posted on social media, she referred to Bella as her 'soulmate' and expressed immense gratitude for the boundless love and happiness her pet gave her throughout their time together. Fans have shown their support with messages of condolence, reminiscing about Bella's many moments shared on Patani's platforms.
Ajay Devgn honored his late father, legendary action director Veeru Devgn, on his birth anniversary with a touching tribute. A shared video revealed Veeru Devgn's dream of making his son a hero, alongside behind-the-scenes glimpses of their bond. Veeru Devgn, a stunt icon who directed 'Hindustan Ki Kasam', left an indelible mark on Bollywood, his legacy continuing to be celebrated.
Prithviraj Sukumaran, playing the villain in SS Rajamouli's 'Varanasi', shared an intense filming experience where a single scene with Mahesh Babu required nearly 100 takes and a full day's shoot. Rajamouli's dedication is evident, arriving hours before actors and meticulously planning every detail. The global adventure thriller, also starring Priyanka Chopra, is set for an April 7, 2027 release.
Jersey Shore's Jenni 'JWoww' Farley and wrestler Zack Carpinello surprised 50 guests with a 'Beauty and the Beast' themed wedding on June 24, 2026. Guests believed they were attending a screening for Farley's film 'Nanny Cam.' The couple, who met at Farley's previous wedding, exchanged vows amidst romantic florals and gold accents, celebrating their love with a dark fairytale twist.
Veteran writer Javed Akhtar has slammed the Ministry of External Affairs' assertion that a passport is merely a travel document, not proof of citizenship. He questioned how authorities then distinguish genuine citizens from illegal immigrants if passports aren't a definitive indicator. The debate highlights the complexities surrounding Indian citizenship, with other documents like Aadhaar and Voter ID also not being conclusive proof.
Inde Navarrette, star of the blockbuster 'Obsession', shared her journey through lean acting periods. The 25-year-old actress revealed she juggled dog walking and streaming to make ends meet while waiting for roles. Despite a demanding schedule on 'Superman & Lois', she found solace and inspiration in gaming, eventually leading to her current success. 'Obsession' has achieved remarkable box office triumph, exceeding $300 million globally.
Hollywood stars Julie Gonzalo and Chris McNally, known for 'The Sweetest Hearts,' have welcomed their second child, a baby girl. The couple, who met on set and married in 2018, shared their joy and the challenges of adjusting to life with two little ones. Their elder daughter is reportedly embracing her role as a big sister, mirroring her parents' nurturing actions with her own dolls.
Samantha Ruth Prabhu's film 'Maa Inti Bangaaram' has made waves at the box office, raking in over 30 crore. Initially, director Raj Nidimoru envisioned a simpler tale about a daughter-in-law's family integration, but the narrative evolved into an action-driven storyline. Samantha was chosen for her versatility, although Sai Pallavi was briefly considered for the lead before the script's transformation.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's upcoming UK visit sparks debate, with biographer Tom Bower suggesting a crawl back driven by financial woes and Harry's isolation. Bower claims their business ventures faltered, pushing them to seek royal reconciliation for fame and status. Despite King Charles's reported offer of accommodation, a warm reception is questioned, with Buckingham Palace wary of commercial exploitation.
The untimely passing of Princess Diana has seemingly left a profound impact on Prince Harry, particularly in his interactions with the public. Observers pointed out his discomfort during wedding festivities, contrasting dramatically with Meghan Markles natural charisma in the spotlight. Recent anniversary photos further underscore this disparity, with Harry appearing to seek solace away from public attention, perhaps a lasting reflection of his mother's turbulent experience with the media.
In anticipation of the 'Welcome to the Jungle' release, Akshay Kumar has humorously suggested that critics and influencers should replace traditional star ratings with laughter emojis, setting an entertaining mood for the film. Directed by Ahmed Khan, this latest addition to the 'Welcome' saga features an impressive ensemble cast and promises to deliver a new twist when it opens in cinemas on June 26.
In an exciting development, director Siddharth P Malhotra has wrapped up the screenplay for 'Kamal Aur Meena', a biopic centered on the legendary Meena Kumari. This captivating story weaves together insights gathered from more than 2000 personal letters and diary excerpts exchanged between her and her spouse, Kamal Amrohi, providing a profound glimpse into their unique bond and the artistry behind 'Pakeezah'.
In Julian Schnabel's ambitious crime drama, 'In the Hand of Dante', Gerard Butler surprises with an audacious performance, portraying both a contemporary hitman and Pope Bonifacio VIII from the 14th century. The film unfolds a gripping narrative about corruption throughout history, featuring notable appearances by Oscar Isaac and Gal Gadot. Following its debut at the Venice Film Festival, the film is now accessible on OTT platforms.
Rajinikanth's 173rd film, 'Dharman,' has officially begun production, igniting fan excitement. A striking new poster reveals the superstar wielding a bloodied surgery knife. Director Ashwath Marimuthu describes the movie as a family-oriented thriller with strong entertainment value, blending mass appeal with investigative elements. Rajinikanth's collaborative spirit and dedication to the project were highlighted, with the actor reportedly treating himself as an assistant to the director.
The hunt for the next James Bond is heating up as producers and director Denis Villeneuve move into the second audition phase. Several actors, including Harris Dickinson, Callum Turner, and Jacob Elordi, are reportedly in contention. Notifications for August auditions have been sent, with a final decision anticipated by year-end to pave the way for a 2027 production start. This marks the search for Daniel Craig's successor.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas has ignited a vital discussion on domestic equality, asserting that household chores are not solely a woman's duty but fundamental life skills. She also highlighted the democratizing impact of technology on filmmaking, enabling independent creators to achieve widespread success. Furthermore, Chopra confirmed an exciting upcoming collaboration with Angelina Jolie and teased other significant projects, including a venture with Orlando Bloom and a role in SS Rajamouli's 'Varan
Ram Charan's sports drama 'Peddi' celebrated a grand success meet in Hyderabad, with the actor expressing profound gratitude for the audience's unparalleled love. He shared a heartwarming anecdote about his daughter Klin Kaara now calling him 'Peddi Nanna'. The film's exceptional run continues, nearing 333 crore worldwide, a testament to its strong audience connection and the impactful contributions of director Buchi Babu Sana and composer A. R. Rahman.
Following the AMMA executive committee's resignation, veteran actor Mammootty urged patience, stating that decisions will be made and problems resolved. Meanwhile, Shwetha Menon revealed her resignation stemmed from refusing to be a puppet and facing baseless allegations. She also called for a forensic audit of past AMMA accounts to ensure transparency, denying any political affiliations.
Marvel Studios is bringing back 'Avengers: Endgame' to cinemas this September as 'Avengers: Endgame Encore'. This special re-release will feature new footage and a post-credit scene designed to connect the film to the upcoming 'Avengers: Doomsday'. The theatrical event aims to set up the Multiverse Saga's conclusion, offering a fresh perspective on past events and their impact on future MCU narratives.
Filmmakers worldwide have masterfully employed rain, not just as a backdrop, but as a potent narrative device. South Indian cinema, in particular, imbues rain with profound meaning. From the drought-breaking deluge in 'Vaishali' to the emotional downpour mirroring characters' struggles in 'Perumazhakalam,' and the romantic showers in Mani Ratnam's 'Alaipayuthey' and 'Mouna Ragam,' rain consistently amplifies cinematic storytelling.
At the 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' premiere in Rome, Tom Holland and Zendaya shared a heartwarming moment that showcased their closeness. Holland sweetly referred to Zendaya as 'Maree' when discussing their plans after the event, revealing a glimpse of their affectionate relationship. This interaction adds to the couple's narrative, especially after Holland recently announced their marriage, emphasizing the strength of their connection amid their busy careers.
'Main Vaapas Aaunga,' directed by Imtiaz Ali, is witnessing an impressive revival at the box office, fueled by enthusiastic audience feedback. Following a subdued premiere, the partition-era tale has picked up steam during its second week. The film has now raked in over Rs 32 crore domestically and is on track to reach nearly Rs 52 crore worldwide, indicating its successful rebound.
Chidambaram's thriller 'Balan: The Boy' is performing well in its opening week, crossing 20 crore worldwide. The film garnered 96 lakh on its sixth day, bringing its India net collection to 10.29 crore. Despite some script and characterization issues noted by ETimes, the movie maintains strong occupancy, particularly in evening and night shows, indicating audience engagement.
'Cocktail 2', directed by Homi Adajania, has seen a remarkable box office performance, amassing more than Rs 66 crore domestically within just six days. Despite receiving mixed reviews from viewers, the film boasts a strong star cast, including Shahid Kapoor, Rashmika Mandanna, and Kriti Sanon, and capitalizes on a lack of significant rivals. Its worldwide gross now stands at over Rs 102 crore, reflecting its triumph in theaters.
The deep rift between Princes Harry and William continues to strain the royal family, with former aide Jamie Lowther-Pinkerton expressing reluctance to discuss the sensitive issue. Despite Harry's upcoming UK visit for the Invictus Games, a reunion with his brother remains unlikely, as William reportedly views Harry's past actions as unforgivable. While reconciliation seems distant, sources close to Harry suggest he remains hopeful for future family unity.
Ram Charan's 'Peddi' continues its strong box-office run, crossing Rs 332 crore worldwide after 21 days. The film earned Rs 70 lakhs on its third Wednesday, bringing its India net total to Rs 236.60 crore. Ram Charan expressed his gratitude to the audience, stating the film's success belongs to them, highlighting their unwavering support.
Samantha Ruth Prabhu's 'Maa Inti Bangaaram' continues its strong box office run, crossing Rs 55.71 crore worldwide. The film garnered Rs 2.50 crore on its sixth day, with the Telugu version leading collections. Amidst this success, the actress joyfully confirmed her pregnancy at a recent event, announcing a forthcoming break from work. This news adds a personal milestone to the film's commercial triumph.
Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan paused his 'King' movie commitments for a city event, captivating fans with a dance performance to his hit songs. Sporting a new dark hair color and a sharp navy suit, Khan energized the crowd, even leading them in a medley of his popular tracks. The appearance comes as he continues filming the highly anticipated 'King', slated for a December 2026 release.
Priyanka Chopra, currently a major Hollywood player, revealed her ambition to bring the same diverse roles and storytelling variety she achieved in India to her English-language career. She emphasized the current era's creative freedom, where ideas are paramount. Chopra also discussed how motherhood has made her more selective about her work and time, leading to a significant shift in her priorities.
Anushka Ranjan has candidly spoken about her IVF journey, revealing the emotional and physical challenges she faced while trying to start a family with husband Aditya Seal. In a recent vlog, Anushka shared that she initially struggled with the idea of IVF, admitting that she wrongly associated the procedure with a personal shortcoming. She also called for greater awareness around fertility treatments and urged people to stop treating IVF as a taboo subject.
Vindu Dara Singh has opened up about his former marriage to actor and Tabu's sister, Farah Naaz, admitting that his father, wrestling legend Dara Singh, had cautioned him about the challenges of an interfaith marriage. Vindu reflected on a piece of advice from his father that he chose not to follow. While stressing that he has no regrets because the marriage gave him his son Fateh, the actor said Dara Singh's concerns eventually proved to be correct.
Robert Downey Jr. and Tobey Maguire were recently spotted together in Los Angeles, fueling speculation about Maguire's potential return as Spider-Man in the upcoming 'Avengers: Doomsday'. This sighting, coupled with Downey's confirmed role as Doctor Doom, hints at a possible epic showdown. The film, slated for a December 2026 release, promises a massive crossover event, making the reunion of these iconic actors a tantalizing prospect for fans.
Raveena Tandon and Akshay Kumar are all set to reunite on the big screen after a gap of 22 years with Welcome To The Jungle. The actors, who have shared screen space in several popular films over the years, were last seen together in Police Force: An Inside Story in 2004. For Raveena, returning to the sets alongside Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty and director Ahmed Khan felt less like work and more like a reunion of old friends.
Salman Khan's Sikandar may have failed to impress at the box office, but the film continues to make headlines over the debate surrounding the superstar's work ethic. After director AR Murugadoss reportedly blamed Salman for the film's underwhelming performance and alleged that the actor would arrive late on set, actor Vindu Dara Singh has come out in support of the Bollywood star.
Samantha Ruth Prabhu has confirmed that she is expecting her first child and will be taking a maternity break after completing her current professional commitments. Speaking to the media during the success meet of Maa Inti Bangaaram on Wednesday, Samantha addressed the speculation surrounding her pregnancy and revealed that she plans to step away from work for a brief period.

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