The production team behind Welcome to the Jungle, led by Akshay Kumar, is all set to begin an extensive international shooting schedule in the UAE, following a rigorous filming stint in Mumbai and Kashmir earlier this year. The film is helmed by director Ahmed Khan and produced by Firoz Nadiadwallah.
Director Ahmed Khan revealed, “We are about to kickstart a mega schedule in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, which will play a pivotal role in the movie. Audiences can expect a cinematic extravaganza with unlimited entertainment.” The director further added that the team has already made arrangements for an advance recce to prepare for the shoot.
Producer Firoz A. Nadiadwallah also shared his excitement, saying, “The international schedule is starting soon, and it will be filmed at some truly impressive locations across the UAE. We’ll be shooting action sequences, songs, and scenes at renowned spots, some of which have never before been used for Hollywood films. We are in the process of acquiring permits and rights for these locations, and we’re bringing in foreign action crews and stunt professionals to make it an unforgettable visual experience.”
Recently, there have been rumours suggesting delays in the production, which the team has firmly dismissed. Ahmed Khan addressed these reports, clarifying, “There’s no truth to these rumours. The film is progressing as planned, and we are kicking off the international schedule in October. My technical team has already left for the first recce.”
This clarification comes after concerns were raised regarding the withdrawal of Jio Studios from the production. A source close to the project explained, “Jio Studios is no longer involved in the film. They backed out a few months ago, which is why certain videos were deleted from the internet.” Despite this, the team remains confident, and the project is moving forward without any hitches.
Welcome to the Jungle promises to be a high-octane entertainer, featuring a star-studded ensemble cast, including Akshay Kumar, Sanjay Dutt, Arshad Warsi, Disha Patani, Raveena Tandon, Jacqueline Fernandez, Lara Dutta, Paresh Rawal, and many others. The film is presented by Base Industries Group and produced by Firoz A. Nadiadwallah, with anticipation building for what is expected to be a thrilling cinematic experience.
The Telugu film industry convened a high-profile meeting with Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy on Thursday in the aftermath of a stampede during the screening of Pushpa 2: The Rule. The incident, which occurred earlier this month in Hyderabad, resulted in the tragic death of a 35-year-old woman and left her son critically injured. Actor Allu Arjun, who was present at the event, was arrested but subsequently granted bail.
Representatives from the Telugu film industry meet Telangana CM Revanth Reddy in Hyderabad on Thursday (Image: X)
Among the attendees were prominent industry figures, including producer Allu Aravind (father of Allu Arjun), producers Suresh Daggubati, Sunil Narang, Supriya, Naga Vamshi, and Pushpa 2 producers Naveen Yerneni and Ravi Shankar. Renowned actors such as Venkatesh Daggubati, Nithiin, Varun Tej, Siddhu Jonnalagadda, Kiran Abbavaram, and Shiva Balaji, alongside directors Trivikram Srinivas, Harish Shankar, Anil Ravipudi, and Bobby, also participated.
The tragic event sparked widespread criticism of the Telugu film industry, with Chief Minister Reddy condemning the apparent lack of concern for the deceased woman, Revathi, and her critically injured son, Sri Tej. In his remarks, Reddy emphasised the responsibility of film celebrities to manage their fans and ensure safety at public events, stating that there must be “no compromise on law and order.”
Cinematography Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy also hinted at potential policy changes, suggesting that ticket price hikes might only be allowed for films addressing historical subjects, the freedom struggle, or anti-drug themes. If implemented, this policy could have a significant impact on upcoming high-profile Sankranti releases like Ram Charan’s Game Changer and Nandamuri Balakrishna’s Daaku Maharaj.
What Happened During the Premiere?
The stampede occurred on 4 December during the premiere of Pushpa 2: The Rule, where a massive crowd gathered outside the theatre to catch a glimpse of Allu Arjun, who was attending alongside co-star Rashmika Mandanna and his wife Allu Sneha Reddy.
The chaotic situation arose due to the absence of adequate security measures and poor event management. Authorities in Telangana were not informed of Arjun’s attendance beforehand, which hindered the deployment of additional police. Despite the theatre management’s awareness of his presence, they failed to notify local authorities, resulting in overcrowding.
The lack of separate entry and exit points exacerbated the situation, as fans surged forward to see the actor, leading to the tragic stampede. At the meeting, the Chief Minister urged the industry to take greater accountability for fan management at such high-profile events to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The fallout from this incident has cast a shadow over the film’s release and raised questions about safety protocols and celebrity accountability within the Telugu film industry.
The cameras are rolling for the highly anticipated war drama ‘Border 2’, starring Sunny Deol, Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh, and Ahan Shetty. Directed by Anurag Singh, the film promises an explosive blend of action, patriotism, and drama, with a theatrical release set for 23 January, 2026.
T-Series broke the news on X (formerly Twitter), sharing: “The cameras are rolling for Border 2! With Sunny Deol, Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh and Ahan Shetty leading the charge, this Anurag Singh directorial, powered by cinematic legends Bhushan Kumar, JP Dutta, and Nidhi Dutta, promises action, drama, and patriotism like never before. Mark your calendars: #Border2 hits theaters on Jan 23, 2026!”
A sequel to the 1997 blockbuster ‘Border’, the film is inspired by the Kargil War of 1999. The original film, directed by J.P. Dutta, depicted the heroic Battle of Longewala during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 and featured an ensemble cast including Sunny Deol, Suniel Shetty, Jackie Shroff, and Akshaye Khanna.
‘Border 2’ is produced by Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, J.P. Dutta, and Nidhi Dutta under T-Series and J.P. Films, continuing the legacy of the original with a fresh narrative and a new generation of stars.
While Sunny Deol’s return was announced in June, Varun Dhawan and Diljit Dosanjh joined the cast in the following months, building anticipation for what promises to be a grand spectacle of bravery and sacrifice.
Bollywood’s latest cross-cultural romance, Param Sundari, starring Sidharth Malhotra and Janhvi Kapoor, is set to hit cinemas on 25 July 2025. The much-anticipated film, produced by Maddock Films, promises an enchanting love story brimming with laughter, chaos, and heartwarming moments.
Directed by Tushar Jalota, known for his work on Dasvi, Param Sundari unfolds against the lush, serene backdrop of Kerala’s famous backwaters. The film explores the romantic entanglement between Malhotra’s character, a spirited North Indian boy, and Kapoor’s portrayal of a graceful South Indian girl – a tale where two vibrant cultures collide in unexpected ways.
Maddock Films unveiled the film’s first look on social media, sparking excitement across platforms. The caption teased: “North ka swag, South ki grace – two worlds collide and sparks fly.” Fans were introduced to the lead characters: “Introducing @sidmalhotra as North ka Munda Param, all set to charm his way into your hearts! And meet @janhvikapoor as South ki Sundari, here to melt your heart with her grace.”
Dinesh Vijan, Maddock Films’ head, described Param Sundari as a project that channels the spirit of classic Mani Ratnam romances like Saathiya. “It’s a love story with music that will stay with you. Janhvi as a South Indian and Sidharth as a Northern Delhi boy create a unique dynamic that’s fresh and exciting. The cultural clash adds a playful yet emotional layer to the narrative,” Vijan told Variety.
Vijan also hinted at subtle sci-fi elements reminiscent of Maddock’s hit Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, starring Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon. However, he emphasized that Param Sundari leans more towards a grounded, folk-inspired tale akin to Rishab Shetty’s Kantara, blending romance with cultural richness.
Param Sundari promises to deliver an unforgettable cinematic experience, fusing northern charm with southern elegance. As anticipation builds, fans eagerly await the on-screen magic of Sidharth and Janhvi’s first pairing, hoping for a love story that transcends boundaries and tugs at the heartstrings.
Mark your calendars – Param Sundari arrives in theatres 25 July, 2025.
A significant controversy has erupted following Blake Lively’s filing of a civil rights complaint against her It Ends With Us co-star and director, Justin Baldoni. Filed with the California Civil Rights Department, the complaint accuses Baldoni of sexual harassment during the filming of the popular adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel. Lively also claims retaliation after she raised concerns about Baldoni’s on-set behaviour.
Allegations of sexual harassment and inappropriate behaviour
According to the filing, Lively alleges Baldoni subjected her to repeated instances of inappropriate comments about her appearance, demanded she perform nudity in scenes that did not call for it, and made unwanted physical advances, including biting her during kissing scenes. She also accuses him of walking into her trailer without permission while she was undressed. Furthermore, Lively alleges that Baldoni and Wayfarer Studios CEO Jamey Heath engaged in discussions about their sexual experiences and even pornography addiction, creating an uncomfortable and hostile working environment.
Lively’s attorney also claims that Baldoni privately contacted her fitness trainer to suggest that she lose weight months after giving birth, allegedly under the pretext of needing her to be in better shape for a scene that never materialised. Baldoni is also accused of degrading her by discussing matters unrelated to the film, such as claiming he could communicate with her deceased father and allowing non-essential crew members to walk through set during intimate scenes.
As part of her legal filing, Lively’s team included a series of demands for changes to ensure a safer working environment, including the presence of an intimacy coordinator at all times on set and no spontaneous improvisation in scenes of physical intimacy. The filing also mentioned a meeting held in January 2023 to address the issues that had nearly derailed production.
Alleged smear campaign and crisis communications firm
In addition to the allegations of harassment, Lively claims that Baldoni and Wayfarer Studios hired a crisis communications firm, led by publicist Melissa Nathan, to execute a “social manipulation campaign” to tarnish her reputation. The complaint details how the firm allegedly orchestrated online fan engagement to discredit Lively and suppress negative media coverage about Baldoni, including complaints made against him. The tactic, known as astroturfing, is designed to make opinions appear to be from the public when they are actually being manufactured.
Baldoni’s denial and public response
Baldoni has strongly denied all the allegations. His attorney, Bryan Freedman, described the claims as “categorically false” and accused Lively of trying to salvage her own reputation by planting false stories in the media. He further suggested that Lively’s actions prompted Wayfarer Studios to hire a crisis communications firm in response.
A still from It Ends With Us
During the publicity campaign for It Ends With Us, Lively was the subject of significant online backlash, particularly for her perceived insensitivity towards the film’s subject matter of domestic abuse. Critics online accused her of being self-absorbed, especially when she promoted her own businesses, including a beverage brand, while discussing the film’s themes. Meanwhile, Baldoni, in contrast, focused much of his interviews on supporting survivors of domestic violence, which led to further speculation about behind-the-scenes tensions.
The controversy over the on-set dynamics gained traction when fans noticed that Baldoni followed his co-stars on Instagram, but neither Lively nor Jenny Slate followed him back, further fueling speculation about friction between the cast. At the film’s premiere, Baldoni did not take group photos with his co-stars, and he was not interviewed alongside them, adding to the rumours of a rift.
Support for Lively from co-stars and public figures
Lively with Hoover in a still from the promo of It Ends With Us
As the allegations have gained attention, a number of figures have expressed support for Lively. Hoover, the author of the book on which the film is based, posted a message of solidarity with Lively, calling her “honest, kind, supportive, and patient.” Other stars, including Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants co-stars Alexis Bledel, America Ferrera, and Amber Tamblyn, issued a joint statement saying they “stand in solidarity” with Lively, noting the troubling reality that even well-resourced women like Lively can face retaliation for speaking up about misconduct.
In a separate response, Amber Heard, who has faced her own battles with social media and public perception, criticised the destructive nature of online discourse, saying that social media often spreads lies before the truth can catch up. Lively’s complaint mentions the same crisis communications firm that was involved in the defamation case against Heard’s ex-husband, Johnny Depp, highlighting the similarities in the public relations tactics used to shape narratives.
As this legal dispute continues to unfold, Lively’s decision to file the complaint marks a significant moment in the entertainment industry’s ongoing reckoning with on-set harassment, abuse of power, and the role of social media in shaping public opinion.
Christopher Nolan’s highly anticipated follow-up to his seven-Oscar-winning Oppenheimer will be an epic adaptation of Homer’s Odyssey. Universal Pictures, which is backing the project, announced on social media that Nolan’s next film, titled The Odyssey, will be a “mythic action epic shot across the world,” using brand new IMAX film technology. The studio has confirmed a release date for July 2026.
The news of Nolan’s new project first emerged in October, with Spider-Man actor Tom Holland reportedly in talks to star alongside Matt Damon. More recently, it has been revealed that Anne Hathaway and Zendaya will also join the star-studded cast. Hathaway, who worked with Nolan in Interstellar, expressed her gratitude to the director, sharing how he gave her one of her most cherished roles despite the negative online backlash she had faced at the time.
Nolan’s affinity for the giant-scale IMAX format is well-known, having used it in films like The Dark Knight Rises, Interstellar, and Dunkirk. Now, with The Odyssey, he will bring Homer’s 8th-century BC epic to the big screen, embracing the expansive visual storytelling that has become his signature.
While adaptations of the Odyssey are rare, there have been notable examples, including the 1954 Italian film Ulysses, starring Kirk Douglas, and Ralph Fiennes and Juliette Binoche’s recent film The Return, which focuses on the poem’s final section. The 1995 film Ulysses’ Gaze by Greek director Theo Angelopoulos, and the Coen brothers’ 2000 comedy O Brother, Where Art Thou?, also draw from Homer’s narrative.
Fans of Nolan’s work can expect an extraordinary visual and narrative experience as The Odyssey prepares to make its way to cinemas in 2026.
Dua Lipa is gearing up for an extravagant New Year’s Eve celebration to close out what has been a remarkable year for the chart-topping singer. After completing the first leg of her Radical Optimism world tour in Asia, Lipa is planning an unforgettable event in London with her boyfriend, actor Callum Turner.
Sources have revealed that the party is set to be one of the most talked-about celebrations of 2024. “Dua and Callum are planning what is shaping up to be the most talked-about NYE party of this year,” a source told The Sun. “They’ve found an amazing venue in London and are working with some party planners to get the ball rolling. Invites have gone out to all of their celebrity mates. It’s the talk of the town, and there are whispers that Bella Hadid and Harry Styles could be there on the night, along with Emma Watson,” the source added.
The star-studded guest list promises to include some of the biggest names in entertainment, making this a night to remember. The lavish celebration will mark the culmination of an outstanding year for Dua Lipa, who has had major milestones in 2024. Earlier this year, she won her seventh Brit Award for Best Pop Act and released her highly anticipated third album, Radical Optimism, which debuted at No. 1 in May. She also headlined Glastonbury’s Pyramid Stage in June and delivered a one-off special performance at London’s Royal Albert Hall in October.
The New Year’s Eve party is expected to be a grand affair, with the insider noting, “It’s going to be a really elaborate party, with hundreds of bottles of champagne and spirits on order. There’s even talk of a live performer.” No expense is being spared, as Dua aims to make the evening as special as possible for her closest friends and family.
As 2024 draws to a close, all eyes will be on Dua Lipa’s glittering celebration in London, as she rings in the New Year surrounded by her celebrity friends and loved ones, marking the end of a phenomenal year in her career.
The highly anticipated fifth and final season of You is set to bring Joe Goldberg’s (Penn Badgley) dark past full circle. On Thursday, Netflix unveiled new posters for the upcoming season, confirming that the show will return in 2025, though an exact release date has yet to be announced.
You has followed Joe, a dangerously charming and obsessively driven man who will go to extreme — and often fatal — lengths to embed himself into the lives of those he becomes infatuated with. As the series draws to a close, Joe finds himself returning to where it all began: New York City. However, what was once his ideal life is now threatened by the ghosts of his past and his own uncontrollable desires.
The final season will feature Joe confronting his past while navigating the complexities of his pursuit of love and happiness. Joining Badgley in the cast are Charlotte Richie, Madeline Brewer, Anna Camp, and Griffin Matthews. Co-showrunners Michael Foley and Justin Lo will lead the final season, with executive producers Greg Berlanti, Sera Gamble, Badgley, Sarah Schechter, Leigh London Redman, Leslie Morgenstein, Gina Girolamo, Marcos Siega, and Neil Reynolds.
In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Sera Gamble, who served as the showrunner for the first four seasons, teased what’s in store for Joe. Reflecting on the evolution of the character, Gamble noted, “He’s gotten to come home again, and that is significant.” She also discussed how Joe’s self-justification for his actions has shifted. “Without sacrificing the beating heart of Joe, which is his romantic sensibility and his belief in love, we are very interested in what happens if he doesn’t constantly mess up because he’s lying to himself about what he’s about to do.”
As fans eagerly await the final season, it’s clear that Joe Goldberg’s journey is far from over — but the consequences of his actions are catching up with him.
Bollywood superstars Salman Khan and Hrithik Roshan are set to join forces on screen for the first time, much to the delight of their fans. While the duo has shared a professional connection for years, having worked together in the past with Hrithik Roshan as an assistant director on Salman’s 1995 film Karan Arjun, this collaboration marks their first time working together in front of the camera.
Both actors are part of the YRF Spy Universe, with Salman playing agent Tiger and Hrithik portraying agent Kabir. Fans have long hoped for a big-screen collaboration between the two, and while that is still in the works, their wish will be partially fulfilled in an upcoming action-packed advertisement for a leading brand.
According to reports, the ad film will be directed by Ali Abbas Zafar, known for his successful collaborations with Salman Khan on films like Sultan, Tiger Zinda Hai, and Bharat. This will also mark Zafar’s first time working with Hrithik Roshan. The ad will be shot in Mumbai, with VFX plates from international locations used for enhanced visuals.
A source close to the development revealed, “After all the efforts for a big-screen collaboration, it’s a corporate that got the two superstars together for this action-packed advertisement.” An official announcement regarding the project is expected soon.
On the work front, Salman Khan is preparing for the release of his much-anticipated film Sikandar, which also stars Rashmika Mandanna. Meanwhile, Hrithik Roshan is set to make a special appearance in the YRF production Alpha, alongside Alia Bhatt and Sharvari.
With both actors known for their strong screen presence and action-packed roles, this collaboration is set to be an exciting treat for fans, setting high expectations for future projects between the two megastars.
Veteran Malayalam actor Mohanlal, currently basking in the release of his directorial debut Barroz 3D, has stirred excitement among fans with his comments about the future of the Drishyam franchise. While promoting Barroz 3D, which hit cinemas last week, Mohanlal spoke candidly about the challenges of creating Drishyam 3 and the possibility of a crossover with Ajay Devgn, who starred in the Hindi remakes of the franchise.
In an interview with India Today Digital, Mohanlal expressed openness to the idea of a crossover involving his character and Ajay Devgn’s. When asked if he could foresee such a project, the actor responded with a smile:
“I have no idea. Let it happen. I will also pray for that.”
On Drishyam 3
The Drishyam star acknowledged the immense pressure to deliver a worthy sequel, describing the process as a significant challenge.
“I have no idea. It’s in the process, in the pipeline. It is not that easy to bring out a good sequel. It is a big challenge. Part three is a big headache for them, for the director, and for all of us. But we are in the process. It will happen someday. I am also praying for it to happen,” Mohanlal said.
The original Drishyam 2, written and directed by Jeethu Joseph, was a critical and commercial success. Its Hindi remake, starring Ajay Devgn alongside Tabu, Akshaye Khanna, Shriya Saran, and Ishita Dutta, was directed by Abhishek Pathak. Released in 2022, the film earned over ₹300 crore worldwide—approximately £30 million—and was a major box office triumph.
Mohanlal’s latest release, Barroz 3D, is a Malayalam fantasy thriller that marks his directorial debut. The film features an ensemble cast including Maya Rao West, Cesar Lorente Raton, Ignacio Mateos, Kallirroi Tziafeta, Nerea Camacho, and Tuhin Menon. Barroz 3D was released in Hindi on December 25, further broadening its audience.
Meanwhile, Ajay Devgn is set to appear in Azad, a highly anticipated film that promises to showcase the actor in yet another dynamic role.
With fans eagerly awaiting updates on Drishyam 3 and buzzing about the possibility of a crossover, the franchise continues to capture the imagination of audiences across languages and cultures.
