The Times of India

Filmmaker B. Subhash recently reminisced about the making of the iconic 'Disco Dancer,' a film that catapulted Mithun Chakraborty to stardom. He shared how he promised the actor a breakthrough, inspired the title from a personal anecdote, and assembled a top-notch team. The film's character Jimmy achieved global fame, with its music resonating even in China, proving its universal appeal.

Prabhu Deva has taken delivery of the MG M9 Presidential Limousine, priced at around Rs 70 lakh. The premium electric MPV comes loaded with 16-way adjustable seats, massage modes and a 13-speaker sound system. Deva, who has won two National Film Awards and the Padma Shri, is known for films like 'Wanted' and 'Rowdy Rathore'.

Anticipating her third child, Anne Hathaway has shared an empowering perspective on the transformations that come with motherhood. She proudly asserts there should be no shame in weight fluctuations or the time required for recovery, underlining the natural evolution of the body. Hathaway recalled feeling strong during workouts with lighter weights, showcasing her resilience. Meanwhile, her upcoming film, 'The End of Oak Street,' is expected to hit theaters shortly.

Hollywood's obsession with massive budgets is being challenged. While mega-tentpoles like 'Avengers: Doomsday' boast astronomical costs, films like 'Pegasus 3' and 'Obsession' are proving that profitability doesn't require huge spending. These micro-budget successes are redefining the box office landscape, demonstrating that compelling storytelling and innovative filmmaking can create global blockbusters, even with a fraction of the investment.

Veteran comedian Johnny Lever made a surprise appearance at Zakir Khan's 'Papa Yaar' concert in Mumbai, delighting the audience. Khan expressed his deep admiration for Lever, acknowledging his pioneering role in Indian comedy. The heartwarming moment, captured in viral videos, celebrated the legacy of a screen icon and the rise of a contemporary stand-up star, with actors like Ayushmann Khurrana praising Khan's performance.

Director Rahul Sankrityan, reuniting with Vijay Deverakonda after their 2018 hit 'Taxiwaala,' opens up to Variety India about his period drama 'Ranabaali,' set against the backdrop of the devastating 19th-century South Indian famine. In a recent interview, Sankrityan discusses the real-life chemistry between Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna, who play an on-screen couple following their own recent marriage, and reveals how Hollywood actor Arnold Vosloo, best known from 'The Mummy' was cast

K Raghavendra Rao, a seasoned director, is under fire once more as footage from the launch of Anil Ravipudi's film 'Venky Anil 5' circulates online. In the clip, Rao is seen directing actresses Keerthy Suresh and Krithi Shetty, raising concerns over his close interactions. This incident has reignited discussions about personal boundaries and appropriate behavior in public settings, especially as it recalled a similar incident involving Niharika Konidela.

James Burrows, the legendary director known for classics like 'Cheers,' graced screens one last time in 'The Comeback' Season 3, portraying 'Jimmy the Director.' His memorable monologue emphasized that authentic humor arises from real human experiences, steering clear of artificial intelligence influences. Burrows, who passed away at the age of 85, leaves a lasting five-decade legacy that reshaped television storytelling.

The action-packed 'Mortal Kombat II' has landed on Amazon Prime Video following its theatrical debut. Earthrealm's champions, including newcomers like Johnny Cage played by Karl Urban, gear up for a climactic showdown against Shao Kahn. This sequel to the 2021 reboot promises a no-rules tournament to decide the fate of their world, continuing the epic battle between realms.

Sonali Bendre's portrayal of Mona in 'Raakh' offered a profound exploration of her character's silent sorrow and few words. Although the limited dialogue made her performance smoother, the emotional intensity lingered beyond the camera, occasionally impacting her personal life. Set against a backdrop of a true crime story from the 1970s, the gripping series is available for streaming on Prime Video.

Anticipation is high for 'House of the Dragon' Season 3, promising more intense battles. Several key characters are returning, including Rhaenyra Targaryen and Alicent Hightower. However, some beloved figures like Rhaenys Targaryen and the Cargyll twins will not be back due to their fates in previous seasons. The new season also introduces fresh faces and a recast role for Princess Jaehaera Targaryen, set to premiere on June 21, 2026.

Following a blockbuster theatrical launch, Samantha Ruth Prabhus action-packed family drama, 'Maa Inti Bangaram', is keeping the momentum alive on its second day. Spearheaded by a powerful performance from the leading lady, the B.V. Nandini Reddy directorial is proving its mettle at the ticket windows. Following a spectacular double-digit worldwide debut, early real-time indicators point toward strong evening and night show occupancies as the film marches into its critical first weekend.

Paresh Ganatra reveals he was initially slated to play Paresh Rawal's role in the cult hit 'Aankhen,' based on his Gujarati play 'Aandhro Paato.' When Amitabh Bachchan joined the project, the film's scale changed, leading to Ganatra taking on the character of Shailesh. This role, though smaller, was well-received and paved the way for his subsequent work in films like 'No Entry.'

After a missed chance with 'Black Warrant', Ramandeep Yadav embraced his role as Rajjo in Prime Video's 'Raakh', convinced it was fate intertwined with the Ranga-Billa case. Opting not to plunge into the criminals biography, he focused on authentically capturing the emotional depths of the narrative stemming from the 1978 Delhi murder investigation.

Ameesha Patel says being part of 'Gadar' has defined her career forever, with audiences always seeing her as Sakina. She believes iconic films set impossible benchmarks, adding that even Shah Rukh, Kajol and Madhuri face the same. Not every film can be a colossal, iconic, blockbuster, path-breaking film, she said.

Anne Hathaway took to Instagram to share the delightful news of her third pregnancy, posting an adorable video that showcased her baby bump. The beloved star of 'Devil Wears Prada' and her husband Adam Shulman are preparing to welcome their third little one, joining their two sons. Fans quickly responded with a flood of congratulations and joy, reveling in her authentic and open sharing of such a significant moment.

Pooja Chopra got emotional on 'Tum Ho Naa', revealing her father pressured her mother to abort her as she was a girl. Her mother refused, left the marriage and raised Pooja and her sister alone. Aaj main zinda hoon, said Pooja, calling her mother her biggest superstar.

An interesting story from the 'Mela' film set has surfaced, revealing Aamir Khan's intense reaction to Twinkle Khanna's confession about thinking of Akshay Kumar during filming. Twinkle humorously recalled how Aamir almost slapped her and later denied it. The discussion evolved, recalling a moment when Aamir discovered Twinkle in tears behind a rock after a disagreement, leading him to appreciate her sharp wit beneath her playful facade.

As 'Cocktail 2' debuts, intriguing casting tales from the 2012 original unravel. Saif Ali Khan disclosed that he took on Gautam's role after Imran Khan and Ranbir Kapoor turned it down. Interestingly, Ranbir also warned Deepika Padukone against participating, a move he now regrets, as her portrayal of Veronica became legendary. Meanwhile, 'Cocktail 2' impressively kicked off at the box office.

Reports suggest that Shraddha Kapoor, Shakti Kapoor, Shivangi Kapoor and Siddhanth Kapoor all live separately in different homes after the pandemic changed things for the family. Shraddha, meanwhile, is busy with her upcoming biopic 'Eetha', hitting theatres on August 28.

Homi Adajania's 'Cocktail 2', starring Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, and Rashmika Mandanna, has carried its strong opening day momentum into Day 2 at the box office. After a robust Rs 13.50 crore net debut across 10,835 shows, the romantic drama's domestic net has crossed Rs 14 crore, with Day 2 live tracking. The film's total India gross now stands at Rs 17.10 crore, with a worldwide gross already crossing Rs 20 crore following its strong overseas debut. The spiritual sequel to the 2012 classic '

Samantha Ruth Prabhu's action drama 'Maa Inti Bangaaram' has made a strong debut, grossing Rs 10.70 crore worldwide on its opening day. Global star Ram Charan lauded Samantha's strength, grace, and conviction in a heartfelt social media post, congratulating her and the entire team. The film's positive audience reception and this significant endorsement from Charan are fueling excitement for its theatrical run.

Telugu romantic drama 'Deewana' is captivating audiences with its blend of romance, friendship, and family emotions. Debut director Sreekanth Sangishetty's film, starring Harshith Reddy and Smeha Manimegalai, is earning praise for its honest portrayal and strong screenplay. Early reviews highlight Harshith Reddy's impressive performance and the compelling chemistry between the leads, making it an emotionally rewarding watch.

On his podcast, Stephen Baldwin shared a surprising revelation about his experience on 'The Object of My Affection.' Despite being cast as Jennifer Aniston's boyfriend, a producer informed him he was being let go for being too humorous. Baldwin expressed that the decision to fire him left him feeling creatively constrained.

Robert Downey Jr. , soon to embody Doctor Doom, revealed Captain America and Doctor Strange were the MCU's most challenging adaptations. He lauded Chris Evans' portrayal of the super-soldier and Benedict Cumberbatch's handling of the mystical Doctor Strange, noting the difficulty in grounding these characters for audiences. Both heroes, alongside Downey Jr. as Doom, are slated for 'Avengers: Doomsday' and 'Avengers: Secret Wars'.

A recently leaked teaser for Shraddha Kapoor's feature 'Eetha' has sparked renewed fascination with the iconic Marathi Tamasha figure, Vithabai Bhau Mang Narayangaonkar. The narrative, inspired by Vithabai's remarkable life, presents Kapoor in a compelling scene that illustrates the performers unwavering commitment, as she prepares for a show in the late stages of her pregnancy. This vivid representation underscores Vithabai's profound passion for her craft.

King Charles is set to reunite with grandchildren Archie and Lilibet for the first time since 2022 during a summer visit to the UK. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's children will meet their grandfather, with accommodation options like Buckingham Palace being considered. This visit marks a significant step in mending the royal family's distance, though broader reconciliation with Prince William remains unlikely.

Anjana Sukhani lauded Janhvi Kapoor for her stance against onscreen objectification, a debate she acknowledges but personally didn't experience in South Indian cinema. Sukhani's comments coincide with her film 'Main Vaapas Aaunga's' successful box office run. She also shared her initial intimidation working with veteran Naseeruddin Shah, respecting his intense character preparation and creative space during filming.

Filmmaker Siddharth P Malhotra's 'Ikka' reunites Sunny Deol and Akshaye Khanna after nearly 30 years since 'Border' (1997). Both actors were his first choices and signed on after loving the script. The Netflix courtroom drama, exploring moral dilemmas, streams from July 10.

Morgan Freeman and Ben Vereen are amplifying the historically significant yet often ignored stories of Black individuals and women. Their latest endeavor, 'The Gray House,' dives into the gripping narrative of Elizabeth Van Lew during the Civil War, showcasing stories that deserve recognition. Freeman underscores the importance of the Black community telling their histories, aligning with Vereen's sentiment as he takes on a key role in this important series.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's potential July visit to Britain with their children, Archie and Lilibet, could be a pivotal moment. While King Charles III may reunite with his grandchildren, the public's reception remains uncertain, with some Britons still critical. The Invictus Games events offer a likely warm welcome, but reconciliation with Prince William appears improbable, making this trip a significant test of future royal relations.

Now available for streaming, 'Voicemails for Isabelle' is a touching rom-com featuring Zoey Deutch as Jill. She navigates her loss by leaving voicemails for her late sister, while Nick Robinson's character unexpectedly receives these messages and finds himself captivated by Jills heartfelt honesty. Directed by Leah McKendrick, the film delves into themes of sisterly love and the healing power of connection in unexpected places.

Acclaimed television director James Burrows, the mastermind behind beloved sitcoms like 'Friends' and 'Will & Grace', has passed away at 85. His family confirmed his peaceful departure, celebrating his five-decade career that shaped generations of comedy and brought immense joy. Burrows, a legendary mentor and creative force, won 11 Emmy Awards, leaving an immeasurable legacy in television.

The trailer for the fantasy adventure 'Nagabandham' has been released, showcasing a world of mythology and mystery centered around the powerful Brahma Kamalam. Starring Virat Karrna, the film promises a grand theatrical experience with action and adventure. The movie, directed by Abhishek Nama, is set for a worldwide release on July 3rd and features a strong supporting cast. Early reactions praise the trailer's scale and visuals.

In a heartfelt social media message, Sharon Osbourne revealed she couldn't attend the Hellfest tribute to her husband, Ozzy Osbourne, due to an unexpected hospital visit this week. The 73-year-old appreciated the festival team and the artist who crafted Ozzy's statue. This news comes alongside discussions about an AI avatar in development for the late rock star, which has ignited some controversy. Sharon was hospitalized last in 2022 after fainting.

Adam Shulman, Anne Hathaway's husband, is anything but a mere celebrity spouse; he embodies creativity in many forms. Aside from supporting Hathaway's Hollywood career, Shulman has made his mark as an actor, producer, and jewelry designer, playing a key role in crafting her engagement ring. Their beautiful love story, which began unexpectedly, now expands to welcome a third child, reflecting Hathaway's honest experiences with motherhood and past struggles with infertility.

Ahead of Father's Day, a survey reveals the top on-screen dads, showcasing diverse characters who've deeply resonated with audiences. From a devoted nanny disguised as an elderly woman to a protective father battling kidnappers, these cinematic figures highlight unwavering paternal love and dedication. The list includes iconic portrayals of integrity, sacrifice, and the lengths fathers will go to for their children, proving that love transcends profession.

A new romantic comedy, 'Voicemails for Isabelle,' is captivating audiences on Netflix, quickly topping viewership charts. The film, starring Zoey Deutch and Nick Robinson, follows a woman coping with grief by leaving voicemails for her deceased sister, unknowingly sending them to a Texas real estate agent. Viewers are praising the lead actors' chemistry and the movie's blend of humor and emotion, reminiscent of classic 2000s rom-coms.

Los Angeles has officially declared January 6, 2027, as 'Diljit Dosanjh Day' in a special civic honour. The Los Angeles City Council recognized the Punjabi singer and actor for his significant role in globalizing Punjabi music and championing South Asian culture in mainstream American entertainment. Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez introduced the resolution, marking a major milestone in Dosanjh's international career. Fans celebrated the news online, praising the artist's achievements.

Despite most of Angelina Jolie's children distancing themselves from Brad Pitt, Pax Jolie-Pitt is reportedly keeping connections with his paternal family. He was recently seen at a family engagement party for cousin Sydney Pitt. This development highlights ongoing tensions within the family, especially as reports indicate other siblings are opting to drop 'Pitt' from their names following the divorce.

Actor Naga Chaitanya lauded the recently released thriller 'Balan: The Boy' after a special screening, calling it a deeply impactful and surprising cinematic experience. He praised the film's unexpected twists, engaging screenplay, and technical brilliance, noting how the narrative steered away from his initial expectations of a family drama.

Surprising box office success comes from the horror film 'Haunted 3D: Echoes of the Past,' which outshined major releases including 'Main Vaapas Aaunga.' Director Vikram Bhatt attributes this achievement to a focused and budget-friendly marketing plan that effectively connected with audiences. The film, produced on a limited budget, astoundingly grossed Rs 18.91 crore, illustrating that strategic promotion can yield impressive returns.

Priyanka Chopra is set to star in the grand Indian film 'Varanasi' and has revealed exciting international collaborations. She teased a new project with Angelina Jolie, alongside praising fellow inspiring actresses Penlope Cruz and Salma Hayek. Chopra also shared her growing creative control in Hollywood, allowing her to shape her own projects, and is currently filming the ambitious 'Varanasi' for a global release.

Imtiaz Ali's poignant partition drama 'Main Vaapas Aaunga', featuring Diljit Dosanjh, has impressively surpassed the Rs 14 crore milestone in net collections in India by the eighth day. On its second Friday, the film collected Rs 1.90 crore, with a new total domestic accumulation reaching Rs 16.88 crore. Internationally, it has achieved approximately Rs 26.13 crore amidst fresh competition from 'Cocktail 2'. Read on to know more in detail.

Director Sasi's 'Nooru Saami,' starring Swasika and Vijay Antony, has opened to a modest Rs 75 lakh nett on its first day. The emotional family drama, exploring a mother's desire to remarry and her sons' resistance, saw a 15 percent overall occupancy. While morning shows were slow, night shows indicated a gradual improvement in audience interest for this poignant narrative.

A former 'The Traitors' contestant, Sam Little, lost his entire 40,000 life savings to a sophisticated cryptocurrency phishing scam. Scammers impersonated his bank, manipulating his online account access without asking for passwords. Little, who had saved the money for his family, is now determined to warn others about the ease of falling victim to such cybercrimes, highlighting the growing scale of these thefts in the UK.

Following the success of 'Manjummel Boys', director Chidambaram's new thriller 'Balan: The Boy' has opened to a strong reception, earning Rs 1.82 crore nett on its first day. Kerala led the box office, with the Malayalam version dominating collections and occupancy. Audiences are praising the film's writing, performances, and emotional depth, calling it a satisfying and engaging cinematic experience.

'Cocktail 2' featuring Shahid Kapoor, Rashmika Mandanna, and Kriti Sanon premiered on June 19, scoring an impressive Rs 13.50 crore on its opening day. Despite receiving mixed feedback, the film reached a global gross of Rs 20.20 crore. As it faces minimal competition this week, the weekend's performance along with Mondays figures will be pivotal in shaping its box office journey. Read on to know more in detail.

Samantha Ruth Prabhu's 'Maa Inti Bangaaram' has made a strong debut, raking in 5.35 crore net in India on its opening day. The action drama garnered 10.70 crore worldwide, with overseas territories contributing significantly. The film saw increasing occupancy throughout the day, especially in premium formats. Critics have lauded Samantha's performance and the supporting cast, highlighting the film's emotional depth alongside its action sequences.

The box office sensation 'Peddi,' starring Ram Charan, continues to thrive, snagging 1.75 crore on its third Friday, culminating in a total net collection of 229.75 crore. The film's Telugu version takes the spotlight, with Andhra Pradesh and Telangana contributing most to its earnings. Moreover, Netflix has locked in its digital rights for 105 crore, aiming for a release later in July.