Category Archives: film

bollywood, boys, cinema, entertainment, film

‘The Paradise’: See Mohan Babu’s villain avatar as Shikanja Maalik

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**The Paradise: See Mohan Babu’s Villain Avatar as Shikanja Maalik**

*By Apoorva Rastogi | Sep 27, 2025, 03:24 PM*

Veteran actor Mohan Babu has been revealed as the main antagonist, Shikanja Maalik, in Nani’s upcoming film *The Paradise*. The first-look poster, released on Saturday, has generated a wave of excitement ahead of the movie’s worldwide release scheduled for March 26, 2026.

In the striking poster, Mohan Babu appears in a chilling avatar with bloodied hands and a lit cigar, clearly hinting at his menacing role in the film.

**Social Media Buzz**

The film’s official social media handle amplified the reveal by sharing the poster with the caption:
*”Naam hai Shikanja Maalik. The Dark Lord of cinema rises again. Bringing back the legendary @themohanbabu Garu as Shikanja Maalik in #TheParadise to reclaim the peak of villainism.”*

Meanwhile, Nani expressed his admiration for Mohan Babu’s role on X (formerly Twitter), stating,
*”There are great heroes and there are great villains. He is that and this and a lot more.”*

**Actor’s Commitment**

Lakshmi Manchu, Mohan Babu’s daughter, had previously confirmed her father’s role in *The Paradise*. She praised his discipline and dedication, revealing that he has been working out regularly to prepare for this physically demanding role.

“Whether it’s a debut director or a seasoned filmmaker, his passion and commitment remain unchanged,” she remarked, highlighting his enduring enthusiasm for the craft.

**Star-Studded Cast and Production**

Alongside Mohan Babu and Nani, the movie also features Raghav Juyal in a pivotal role. Directed by Srikanth Odela and produced by Sudhakar Cherukuri under SLV Cinemas, *The Paradise* is set to be released in eight languages, catering to a diverse audience.

**Director’s Journey**

*The Paradise* marks another ambitious collaboration between director Srikanth Odela and actor Nani, following their successful project *Dasara* (2023). *Dasara* was not only a critical success but also crossed the ₹100 crore mark, becoming the highest-grossing movie of Nani’s career.

The film’s music is composed by Anirudh Ravichander, adding to the movie’s high expectations.

Stay tuned for more updates as *The Paradise* gears up for its release next year!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/the-paradise-mohan-babu-looks-fierce-in-first-look/story

bollywood, boys, cinema, entertainment, film

‘The Paradise’: See Mohan Babu’s villain avatar as Shikanja Maalik

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**The Paradise: See Mohan Babu’s Villain Avatar as Shikanja Maalik**
*By Apoorva Rastogi | Sep 27, 2025, 03:24 PM*

Veteran actor Mohan Babu has been unveiled as the main antagonist, Shikanja Maalik, in Nani’s highly anticipated upcoming film *The Paradise*. The first-look poster, released on Saturday, has already stirred excitement among fans ahead of the worldwide release scheduled for March 26, 2026.

In the chilling poster, Mohan Babu is seen with bloodied hands and a lit cigar, perfectly hinting at his dark and menacing role in the film. The movie’s official social media handle dubbed him “The Dark Lord of cinema” and wrote:
“*Naam hai Shikanja Maalik. The Dark Lord of cinema rises again. Bringing back the legendary @themohanbabu Garu as Shikanja Maalik in #TheParadise to reclaim the peak of villainism.*”

Directed by Srikanth Odela and produced by Sudhakar Cherukuri under SLV Cinemas, *The Paradise* promises a gripping narrative matched by a stellar cast.

Nani took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his admiration for Mohan Babu, stating, “There are great heroes and there are great villains. He is that and this and a lot more.”

### Actor’s Commitment

Lakshmi Manchu, Mohan Babu’s daughter, had earlier confirmed his role in the film and praised his unwavering dedication to the project. She revealed that Mohan Babu has been rigorously working out to prepare for the physically demanding villainous character. She emphasized, “Whether it’s a debut director or a seasoned filmmaker, his passion and commitment remain unchanged.”

The film also features Raghav Juyal in a pivotal role and will have a grand release in eight languages, further broadening its reach.

### Director’s Journey with *The Paradise*

For director Srikanth Odela, *The Paradise* is a follow-up to his successful collaboration with Nani on the 2023 blockbuster *Dasara*. *Dasara* crossed the 100 crore mark at the box office, becoming the highest-grossing film of Nani’s career.

Adding to the film’s appeal is the music by renowned composer Anirudh Ravichander, promising a captivating auditory experience.

With a powerful villain, a celebrated lead, and a skilled director at the helm, *The Paradise* is gearing up to deliver a memorable cinematic experience when it releases worldwide next year.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/the-paradise-mohan-babu-looks-fierce-in-first-look/story

bollywood, boys, cinema, entertainment, film

‘The Paradise’: See Mohan Babu’s villain avatar as Shikanja Maalik

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**The Paradise: Mohan Babu Unveiled as the Villainous Shikanja Maalik**

*By Apoorva Rastogi | Sep 27, 2025, 03:24 PM*

Veteran actor Mohan Babu has been revealed as the main antagonist, Shikanja Maalik, in Nani’s much-anticipated upcoming film, *The Paradise*. The first-look poster was unveiled on Saturday, sparking excitement among fans ahead of the movie’s worldwide release scheduled for March 26, 2026.

In the chilling poster, Mohan Babu appears with bloodied hands and a lit cigar, a visual cue hinting at his dark and formidable role as the film’s villain.

**Social Media Buzz**

The official social media handle of the movie shared the poster alongside a powerful caption:
*”Naam hai Shikanja Maalik. The Dark Lord of cinema rises again. Bringing back the legendary @themohanbabu Garu as Shikanja Maalik in #TheParadise to reclaim the peak of villainism.”*

Nani also took to X to express his admiration, saying, *“There are great heroes and there are great villains. He is that and this and a lot more.”*

**Actor’s Commitment**

Lakshmi Manchu, Mohan Babu’s daughter, had earlier confirmed his involvement in *The Paradise*. She praised his dedication to the role, noting that he has been rigorously working out to meet the physically demanding nature of his character.

“Whether it’s a debut director or a seasoned filmmaker, his passion and commitment remain unchanged,” she added, highlighting Mohan Babu’s unwavering enthusiasm and discipline.

**Cast and Crew**

Apart from Mohan Babu and Nani, the film also features Raghav Juyal in a pivotal role. The movie is directed by Srikanth Odela and produced by Sudhakar Cherukuri under the banner of SLV Cinemas. Notably, *The Paradise* is set to release in eight languages, promising a wide-reaching appeal.

**Director’s Journey**

For director Srikanth Odela, *The Paradise* is a follow-up to his successful collaboration with Nani in the 2023 hit *Dasara*. *Dasara* was not only a critical success but also crossed the ₹100 crore mark, becoming the highest-grossing film of Nani’s career.

The film’s music is composed by the acclaimed Anirudh Ravichander, adding another exciting dimension to this ambitious project.

Stay tuned for more updates on *The Paradise*, a film that promises to redefine villainy and thriller storytelling in Indian cinema.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/the-paradise-mohan-babu-looks-fierce-in-first-look/story

action, drama, entertainment, film, review

Gangster drama | Review of Shreyas Rajagopal’s Gunboy

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Fed up with the relentless beatings dished out by a local bully, an introverted boy takes extreme measures that threaten to tear apart his small town. Shreyas Rajagopal’s *Gunboy* begins on this somewhat templated note.

Our hero, Arvind, and his best friend, Sudipto, are used to being pummelled by Jaggi Ranade, who also happens to be the son of the incumbent mafia boss of the steel town of Rannwara. Luckily for us, what the book does with these familiar ingredients is both surprising at the plot level and refreshing in its treatment.

The book’s trump card is the character of Amar, the anti-hero to Arvind. While the reader roots for Arvind, they are constantly intrigued by Amar. Amar is a hitman with a fascinating personal story and a fetish for guns. An early character study chapter is basically just Amar cleaning his many guns while having a drink. It is his favourite weapon, a Beretta 9 mm with a custom grip finished in white and gold, that ends up in Arvind’s hands and transforms the novel into a tinderbox.

Rajagopal’s biggest strength is his characterisation. Both Arvind and Amar begin as archetypes, but through frequent flashbacks, we learn more about their beginnings, their motivations, and so on. The author also manages to communicate the texture of lived reality in small-town India exceptionally well.

For example, when Amar steps into a shady-looking hotel that’s most likely a hotspot for prostitution, the proprietor asks him not to bring a girl to the room because it’s not that kind of place. But as Rajagopal points out in the next line, his tenor and his eyes make it abundantly clear that it is exactly that kind of place.

In the wake of Anurag Kashyap’s iconic film *Gangs of Wasseypur*, there has been a string of Indian films and streaming shows — *Mirzapur*, *Bhaukaal*, *Garmi*, et al — that have sought to recapture the small-town gangsters formula. But very few have done it with the smarts and raw kinetic energy displayed by *Gunboy*.

If you’re looking for a fast-paced action thriller that doesn’t insult your intelligence, this is it.

*The reviewer is working on his first book of non-fiction.*
https://www.thehindu.com/books/book-review-gunboy-author-shreyas-rajagopal-crime-small-town-india/article70069063.ece

bollywood, cinema, entertainment, film, visuals

LEAKED footage from Cocktail 2 gives a glimpse of Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, and Rashmika Mandanna on Sicily streets

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The much-anticipated *Cocktail 2* has found itself in the spotlight after a leaked video from the film’s Sicily schedule began circulating online. The footage shows Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon, joined by co-star Rashmika Mandanna, strolling through the picturesque streets of Sicily as the crew films around them.

According to earlier reports, the makers had planned a lavish song sequence in Italy, and the latest visuals appear to confirm that. Shot against stunning seaside backdrops, the sequence reportedly features grand choreography and vibrant aesthetics, aimed at recapturing the freshness of the original *Cocktail*.

An insider told Mid-Day, “The idea is to not only create a visually stunning number with Shahid and Kriti, but also match the freshness of the original *Cocktail*. The song is likely to be shot in the last week of September.”

Director Homi Adajania has dedicated an entire month to filming in Sicily, with beach sequences playing a pivotal role in the narrative. A source from the production added, “The director has set some key moments on Sicily’s beaches. Homi wants to capture the warmth of the setting as he feels it will lend a beautiful mood to the sequences.”

After wrapping up the Italy schedule, the team is expected to return to Mumbai next month. The second leg of filming will begin post-Diwali, with *Cocktail 2* slated for a 2026 release.

—

**Also Read:**
[Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon set Sicily ablaze with grand song shoot for Cocktail 2]

**More Pages:**
– Cocktail 2 Box Office Collection
– BOLLYWOOD NEWS LIVE UPDATES
https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/leaked-footage-cocktail-2-gives-glimpse-shahid-kapoor-kriti-sanon-rashmika-mandanna-sicily-streets/

acting, biography, cinema, entertainment, film

5 milestones that made Dev Patel a Hollywood star

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**5 Milestones That Made Dev Patel a Hollywood Star**
*By Vinita Jain | Sep 24, 2025, 06:02 PM*

Dev Patel has carved a prominent place for himself in Hollywood thanks to his versatile roles and powerful performances. From his early days as a young star in *Slumdog Millionaire* to becoming an acclaimed actor, Patel has consistently demonstrated his range and depth. Here are five key milestones that define his remarkable journey in the film industry, each showcasing his talent, dedication, and ability to embody diverse characters.

### Early Success: Breakthrough Role in *Slumdog Millionaire*
Dev Patel’s career truly took off with the 2008 film *Slumdog Millionaire*. The movie was both a critical and commercial sensation, winning eight Academy Awards. Patel’s portrayal of Jamal Malik earned him international recognition and established him as a leading actor to watch. His ability to convey deep emotion and resilience in this role set the tone for his future projects.

### International Recognition: Acclaimed Performance in *Lion*
In 2016, Patel received widespread acclaim for his role in *Lion*. The film, based on a true story, follows a man searching for his lost family in India after being adopted by an Australian couple. Patel’s deeply authentic and heartfelt performance brought the story to life, earning him multiple prestigious award nominations, including an Academy Award nod for Best Supporting Actor.

### Diverse Characters: Versatile Roles in *The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel*
Patel showcased his versatility in *The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel*, where he played Sonny Kapoor, a young Indian hotelier with big dreams. This delightful mix of humor and drama allowed Patel to demonstrate his charm and chemistry with the ensemble cast. His performance was a shining example of his ability to breathe life into a wide range of characters.

### Artistic Acclaim: Leading Role in *The Green Knight*
In 2021, Patel took on the challenging lead role of Sir Gawain in *The Green Knight*, a retelling of the Arthurian legend praised for its artistic vision and storytelling. His nuanced and complex portrayal was met with critical praise, as the film gave him the opportunity to explore darker themes and showcase the depth of his acting skills.

### Creative Storytelling: Impactful Presence in *The Personal History of David Copperfield*
In 2019, Patel starred in *The Personal History of David Copperfield*, directed by Armando Iannucci. This modern adaptation of Charles Dickens’s classic novel featured Patel as the titular character, bringing charm, wit, and a fresh perspective to the beloved story. His performance highlighted not only his comedic timing but also his dramatic prowess.

—

Dev Patel’s career is a testament to his adaptability and dedication to his craft. Each of these milestones reflects his growth as an actor and his continued influence in Hollywood. As he takes on new and diverse roles, audiences eagerly anticipate what this talented star will do next.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/dev-patel-s-hollywood-journey-5-career-highlights/story

celebrity, entertainment, film

Shah Rukh Khan Struggles To Wear National Film Award Medal, Rani Mukerji Helps Him; Video Goes Viral

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The 71st National Film Awards turned into a memorable occasion for Shah Rukh Khan and Rani Mukerji, who were among the winners honoured by President Droupadi Murmu on September 23 in Delhi.

While the evening was marked by celebration, one lighthearted moment involving the two stars has now gone viral. A video circulating on social media shows Shah Rukh struggling to wear his National Award medal. The actor initially tried to place the medal around his neck but removed it after failing to adjust it properly.

Rani, seated next to him, quickly noticed and stepped in to help. She adjusted the medal for SRK, and the candid exchange between the long-time co-stars was captured on camera and shared by fans online. Later, Shah Rukh checked if Vikrant Massey had worn his medal correctly. When Vikrant showed him, SRK gave a thumbs-up in approval. Vikrant shared the Best Actor honour with SRK.

Reacting to the video, fans expressed their admiration:
– “So cute!!! Like kids na? Earning a medal is such a beautiful feeling.”
– “All three acknowledged each other perfectly.”
– “That is called friendship. 👌❤️❤️”
– “So beautifully SRK is checking with Vikrant that he wore it properly,” wrote another fan.

The prestigious ceremony saw several luminaries from the film industry in attendance. Apart from the viral clip, pictures of Rani Mukerji clicking selfies at the event also caught attention. Interior designer Gauri Khan, Shah Rukh’s wife, later shared the selfies on Instagram and penned a heartfelt note.

Along with SRK and Rani’s selfie, she also shared a photo of filmmaker Karan Johar, who received the National Award for his film *Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani*.

“The big day for all three of my favourites… What an honour to receive the National Award!!! Today is the culmination of all your hard work! Continue to inspire…. 🌟 @iamsrk #RaniMukerji @karanjohar,” Gauri wrote.

At the awards, Shah Rukh Khan was recognised for his performance in *Jawan*, while Vikrant Massey won for *12th Fail*. On the other hand, Rani Mukerji received the Best Actress Award for her performance in *Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway*, which was released in March 2023.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/shah-rukh-khan-struggles-to-wear-national-film-award-medal-rani-mukerji-helps-him-video-goes-viral

cinema, creativity, diversity, film, industry

5 filmmaking lessons from Ava DuVernay you can’t ignore

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**5 Filmmaking Lessons from Ava DuVernay You Can’t Ignore**
*By Vinita Jain | Sep 23, 2025, 07:04 PM*

Ava DuVernay, an acclaimed filmmaker, has made a significant mark in the industry with her unique storytelling and visionary approach. Her career offers invaluable lessons that can inspire anyone looking to succeed in filmmaking. Here are five key insights from DuVernay’s journey that highlight the importance of authenticity, perseverance, and innovation in creating impactful cinema.

### 1. Embrace Your Unique Voice

DuVernay emphasizes the importance of having a unique voice in filmmaking. She encourages filmmakers to embrace their own perspectives and experiences to craft authentic stories. Doing so allows for fresh narratives that deeply connect with audiences. This lesson is a call for aspiring filmmakers to stay true to themselves rather than conform to industry norms.

### 2. Prioritize Storytelling Over Visuals

While cinematography is vital, DuVernay stresses that storytelling should always come first. A strong narrative is what makes a film memorable and impactful. Filmmakers are reminded to focus on developing compelling stories that truly resonate with their viewers, rather than letting visuals overshadow the message.

### 3. Advocate for Diversity in Film

DuVernay is a passionate advocate for diversity in cinema. She believes that incorporating different voices and perspectives enriches storytelling. By promoting representation, filmmakers can help build a more inclusive industry that reflects the world’s diversity. This lesson encourages filmmakers to champion diversity in their own projects.

### 4. Be Fearless in Your Creative Choices

Taking creative risks is another key lesson from DuVernay. She urges filmmakers to be fearless and bold in their choices, as this can lead to groundbreaking work that challenges conventions and sparks meaningful conversations. Stepping out of comfort zones can open up new horizons in storytelling.

### 5. Build Supportive Networks

Finally, DuVernay highlights the importance of building supportive networks within the filmmaking community. Collaboration and mentorship are essential for overcoming challenges and fostering growth. Filmmakers are encouraged to seek mentors and cultivate relationships that provide opportunities for development throughout their careers.

—

Ava DuVernay’s journey is a powerful reminder that authenticity, determination, and innovation are at the heart of impactful filmmaking. Embracing these lessons can help aspiring filmmakers leave their own unique mark on the industry.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/ava-duvernay-s-career-5-lessons-to-learn/story

celebrity, entertainment, film, indian cinema

Mohanlal’s ‘Drishyam 3’ to begin filming tomorrow

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**Mohanlal’s ‘Drishyam 3’ to Begin Filming Tomorrow**

*By Isha Sharma | September 21, 2025, 05:35 PM*

Mohanlal, the lead actor of the acclaimed *Drishyam* franchise, has officially announced that filming for *Drishyam 3* will commence on September 22. He shared this exciting news with the media a day after being honored with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award.

The Dadasaheb Phalke Award will be presented to Mohanlal at the 71st National Film Awards ceremony in New Delhi on September 23. This makes him only the second Malayali actor to receive this esteemed accolade, following legendary filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan.

### Production Details and What to Expect

Mohanlal revealed that the production for *Drishyam 3* will begin with a traditional pooja ceremony. Following this, he plans to travel to New Delhi to attend the National Film Awards event.

The *Drishyam* franchise began in 2013, centered around the story of Georgekutty, a cable TV operator who goes to great lengths to protect his family after a crime. The sequel, *Drishyam 2*, released in 2021, continued this gripping narrative several years later.

Director Jeethu Joseph has previously hinted that *Drishyam 3* will be a natural continuation of Georgekutty’s story. Unlike the second installment, which featured a complex thriller format, the upcoming film is expected to adopt a different narrative style.

### Franchise Evolution and Global Reach

The *Drishyam* films have enjoyed tremendous success and have been remade across various Indian languages, including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada. The story has even been adapted into Chinese, making it one of the most widely remade Indian film franchises worldwide.

Mohanlal was last seen in the film *Hridayapoorvam* and continues to captivate audiences with his versatile performances.

Stay tuned for more updates on *Drishyam 3* as the production unfolds.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/mohanlal-shares-update-on-drishyam-3/story

celebrity, entertainment, film, indian cinema

Mohanlal’s ‘Drishyam 3’ to begin filming tomorrow

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**Mohanlal’s ‘Drishyam 3’ to Begin Filming Tomorrow**

*By Isha Sharma | Sep 21, 2025, 05:35 PM*

Mohanlal, the acclaimed lead actor of the *Drishyam* franchise, has confirmed that filming for *Drishyam 3* will commence on September 22. The announcement came during a media interaction, just a day after Mohanlal was honored with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award.

The esteemed award will be presented at the 71st National Film Awards ceremony in New Delhi on September 23. Notably, Mohanlal is only the second Malayali actor to receive this distinguished accolade, following in the footsteps of filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan.

**Production Details and What to Expect from ‘Drishyam 3’**

Mohanlal shared that the production of *Drishyam 3* will officially begin with a traditional pooja ceremony. Following the commencement of the shoot, he plans to head to New Delhi to attend the National Film Awards.

The *Drishyam* franchise first captivated audiences in 2013 with the story of Georgekutty, a cable TV operator who goes to great lengths to protect his family after a crime. The sequel, *Drishyam 2*, released in 2021, continued the gripping narrative several years later.

Director Jeethu Joseph had earlier indicated that *Drishyam 3* would be a natural progression of Georgekutty’s story, moving away from the complex thriller format of the previous installment.

**Franchise Evolution and Adaptations**

The *Drishyam* series has garnered widespread acclaim and has been remade in multiple Indian languages including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada. It has also been adapted into Chinese, making it one of the most widely adapted Indian film franchises globally.

Mohanlal was most recently seen in the film *Hridayapoorvam*. Fans eagerly await the next chapter in the *Drishyam* saga as production begins tomorrow.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/mohanlal-shares-update-on-drishyam-3/story