The world of detective Charlie Chopra, based on characters created by Agatha Christie, is set to have a prolonged life in India as a franchise.
“Charlie Chopra & The Mystery Of Solang Valley,” based on Christie’s 1931 novel “The Sittaford Mystery,” was adapted as a series for Indian streamer SonyLIV by renowned filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj.
Set in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh, northern India, the series follows the journey of Charlie Chopra and her quest to uncover a murder mystery alongside her sidekick Sitaram. Bhardwaj served as director and co-producer and co-screenwriter alongside Anjum Rajabali and Jyotsna Hariharan. The cast includes Wamiqa Gabbi, Priyanshu Painyuli, Naseeruddin Shah, Neena Gupta, Ratna Pathak Shah, Gulshan Grover, Lara Dutta, Chandan Roy Sanyal and Paoli Dam.
Vishal Bhardwaj Pictures produced with Priti Shahani’s Tusk Tale Films in association with Agatha Christie Limited. James Prichard, Basi Akpabio and Leo Dezoysa served as executive producers...
“Charlie Chopra & The Mystery Of Solang Valley,” based on Christie’s 1931 novel “The Sittaford Mystery,” was adapted as a series for Indian streamer SonyLIV by renowned filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj.
Set in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh, northern India, the series follows the journey of Charlie Chopra and her quest to uncover a murder mystery alongside her sidekick Sitaram. Bhardwaj served as director and co-producer and co-screenwriter alongside Anjum Rajabali and Jyotsna Hariharan. The cast includes Wamiqa Gabbi, Priyanshu Painyuli, Naseeruddin Shah, Neena Gupta, Ratna Pathak Shah, Gulshan Grover, Lara Dutta, Chandan Roy Sanyal and Paoli Dam.
Vishal Bhardwaj Pictures produced with Priti Shahani’s Tusk Tale Films in association with Agatha Christie Limited. James Prichard, Basi Akpabio and Leo Dezoysa served as executive producers...
- 9/28/2023
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Whodunnits are all the rage these days. Just recently, we had Anu Menon’s Neeyat, with a superlative cast but bland execution. A few years ago, Netflix gave us the highly indulgent Nawazuddin-starring Raat Akeli Hai. SonyLIV’s latest offering is Vishal Bharadwaj directorial, Charlie Chopra & The Mystery of Solang Valley that explores not just a murder but the familial dynamics around it. This Hindi-language web series, based on Agatha Christie’s novel The Sittaford Mystery, was released on September 27, 2023.
This six episodic miniseries is about the murder of Brigadier Meherban Singh Rawat after a séance conducted by his family predicts his death. It cannot be a mere coincidence, which makes the audience wonder if the family close to the brigadier are into black magic or if this was an orchestrated plan to get rid of this rich man, who happens to own a ski resort as well. Jimmy, the adorable nephew of Brigadier Meherban,...
This six episodic miniseries is about the murder of Brigadier Meherban Singh Rawat after a séance conducted by his family predicts his death. It cannot be a mere coincidence, which makes the audience wonder if the family close to the brigadier are into black magic or if this was an orchestrated plan to get rid of this rich man, who happens to own a ski resort as well. Jimmy, the adorable nephew of Brigadier Meherban,...
- 9/28/2023
- by Smriti Kannan
- Film Fugitives
Actress Wamiqa Gabbi, who essays the titular character in the upcoming series ‘Charlie Chopra and the Mystery of Solang Valley’, has shared why she chose to be a part of the project.
The series has been directed by filmmaker-composer-writer Vishal Bhardwaj, and will see Wamiqa diving headfirst into her role as a detective for the first time.
In preparing for her character, Wamiqa delved into the world of detectives, speaking to real-life professionals to understand what drives them.
Talking about her understanding of what drives the detectives, the actress said, “I discovered that the answer was simple yet powerful, it’s the process of finding answers. Just like the joy we feel when solving a challenging puzzle or conquering an impossible problem, detectives find validation and happiness in resolving real-life mysteries. I incorporated this passion and drive into her performance as Charlie, bringing depth and authenticity to the role.”
‘Charlie Chopra and the Mystery of Solang Valley...
The series has been directed by filmmaker-composer-writer Vishal Bhardwaj, and will see Wamiqa diving headfirst into her role as a detective for the first time.
In preparing for her character, Wamiqa delved into the world of detectives, speaking to real-life professionals to understand what drives them.
Talking about her understanding of what drives the detectives, the actress said, “I discovered that the answer was simple yet powerful, it’s the process of finding answers. Just like the joy we feel when solving a challenging puzzle or conquering an impossible problem, detectives find validation and happiness in resolving real-life mysteries. I incorporated this passion and drive into her performance as Charlie, bringing depth and authenticity to the role.”
‘Charlie Chopra and the Mystery of Solang Valley...
- 9/22/2023
- by Agency News Desk
Actress Wamiqa Gabbi, who essays the titular character in the upcoming series ‘Charlie Chopra and the Mystery of Solang Valley’, has shared why she chose to be a part of the project.
The series has been directed by filmmaker-composer-writer Vishal Bhardwaj, and will see Wamiqa diving headfirst into her role as a detective for the first time.
In preparing for her character, Wamiqa delved into the world of detectives, speaking to real-life professionals to understand what drives them.
Talking about her understanding of what drives the detectives, the actress said, “I discovered that the answer was simple yet powerful, it’s the process of finding answers. Just like the joy we feel when solving a challenging puzzle or conquering an impossible problem, detectives find validation and happiness in resolving real-life mysteries. I incorporated this passion and drive into her performance as Charlie, bringing depth and authenticity to the role.”
‘Charlie Chopra and the Mystery of Solang Valley...
The series has been directed by filmmaker-composer-writer Vishal Bhardwaj, and will see Wamiqa diving headfirst into her role as a detective for the first time.
In preparing for her character, Wamiqa delved into the world of detectives, speaking to real-life professionals to understand what drives them.
Talking about her understanding of what drives the detectives, the actress said, “I discovered that the answer was simple yet powerful, it’s the process of finding answers. Just like the joy we feel when solving a challenging puzzle or conquering an impossible problem, detectives find validation and happiness in resolving real-life mysteries. I incorporated this passion and drive into her performance as Charlie, bringing depth and authenticity to the role.”
‘Charlie Chopra and the Mystery of Solang Valley...
- 9/22/2023
- by Agency News Desk
- GlamSham
New Delhi, Sep 21 (Ians) As the country is immersed in Ganeshotsav, Ott platforms brings an exciting array of titles for the viewers to binge-watch this week.
From crime drama whodunit series ‘Charlie Chopra’ to slice of life show ‘Hostel Daze 4’ and Nithya Menen starrer comedy drama ‘Kumari Srimathi’, this week’s offerings will delight you, and promise to entertain with a diverse range of captivating content.
Here’s a list of six titles on various Ott platforms that have caught the attention of Ians this week.
‘Kumari Srimathi’
Nithya Menen-starrer upcoming comedy drama series ‘Kumari Srimathi’ is set in a village in East Godavari. It hilariously encapsulates the tribulations in the life of a 30-year-old woman (played by Menen), who challenges stereotypes in a small town riddled with antiquity. It also features Nirupam, Gautami, Thiruveer, Talluri Rameshwari, Naresh, and Murali Mohan in pivotal roles.
Produced by Early Monsoon Tales, a web division of Vyjanyanthi Entertainments,...
From crime drama whodunit series ‘Charlie Chopra’ to slice of life show ‘Hostel Daze 4’ and Nithya Menen starrer comedy drama ‘Kumari Srimathi’, this week’s offerings will delight you, and promise to entertain with a diverse range of captivating content.
Here’s a list of six titles on various Ott platforms that have caught the attention of Ians this week.
‘Kumari Srimathi’
Nithya Menen-starrer upcoming comedy drama series ‘Kumari Srimathi’ is set in a village in East Godavari. It hilariously encapsulates the tribulations in the life of a 30-year-old woman (played by Menen), who challenges stereotypes in a small town riddled with antiquity. It also features Nirupam, Gautami, Thiruveer, Talluri Rameshwari, Naresh, and Murali Mohan in pivotal roles.
Produced by Early Monsoon Tales, a web division of Vyjanyanthi Entertainments,...
- 9/21/2023
- by Agency News Desk
New Delhi, Sep 21 (Ians) As the country is immersed in Ganeshotsav, Ott platforms brings an exciting array of titles for the viewers to binge-watch this week.
From crime drama whodunit series ‘Charlie Chopra’ to slice of life show ‘Hostel Daze 4’ and Nithya Menen starrer comedy drama ‘Kumari Srimathi’, this week’s offerings will delight you, and promise to entertain with a diverse range of captivating content.
Here’s a list of six titles on various Ott platforms that have caught the attention of Ians this week.
‘Kumari Srimathi’
Nithya Menen-starrer upcoming comedy drama series ‘Kumari Srimathi’ is set in a village in East Godavari. It hilariously encapsulates the tribulations in the life of a 30-year-old woman (played by Menen), who challenges stereotypes in a small town riddled with antiquity. It also features Nirupam, Gautami, Thiruveer, Talluri Rameshwari, Naresh, and Murali Mohan in pivotal roles.
Produced by Early Monsoon Tales, a web division of Vyjanyanthi Entertainments,...
From crime drama whodunit series ‘Charlie Chopra’ to slice of life show ‘Hostel Daze 4’ and Nithya Menen starrer comedy drama ‘Kumari Srimathi’, this week’s offerings will delight you, and promise to entertain with a diverse range of captivating content.
Here’s a list of six titles on various Ott platforms that have caught the attention of Ians this week.
‘Kumari Srimathi’
Nithya Menen-starrer upcoming comedy drama series ‘Kumari Srimathi’ is set in a village in East Godavari. It hilariously encapsulates the tribulations in the life of a 30-year-old woman (played by Menen), who challenges stereotypes in a small town riddled with antiquity. It also features Nirupam, Gautami, Thiruveer, Talluri Rameshwari, Naresh, and Murali Mohan in pivotal roles.
Produced by Early Monsoon Tales, a web division of Vyjanyanthi Entertainments,...
- 9/21/2023
- by Agency News Desk
- GlamSham
Actress Wamiqa Gabbi, who essays the titular role in the upcoming series ‘Charlie Chopra & The Mystery Of Solang Valley’, shared that her father, Govardhan Gabbi played an instrumental part in getting her character right.
The actress was guided and mentored by her father to ace the character of Charlie Chopra.
Talking about the same, Wamiqa said, “I have always believed that the essence of a character lies in its details. Playing Charlie was a remarkable journey for me. My father, Govardhan Gabbi, who is from a literature background, was my guiding light throughout this process.”
She further mentioned: “His assistance in perfecting the Punjabi dialect and dialogues was instrumental in helping me bring authenticity to my character. As a Punjabi myself, I was excited to take on this role and with his support, I felt even more connected to Charlie’s world.”
The series also stars Priyanshu Painyuli, Naseeruddin Shah,...
The actress was guided and mentored by her father to ace the character of Charlie Chopra.
Talking about the same, Wamiqa said, “I have always believed that the essence of a character lies in its details. Playing Charlie was a remarkable journey for me. My father, Govardhan Gabbi, who is from a literature background, was my guiding light throughout this process.”
She further mentioned: “His assistance in perfecting the Punjabi dialect and dialogues was instrumental in helping me bring authenticity to my character. As a Punjabi myself, I was excited to take on this role and with his support, I felt even more connected to Charlie’s world.”
The series also stars Priyanshu Painyuli, Naseeruddin Shah,...
- 9/20/2023
- by Agency News Desk
Actress Wamiqa Gabbi, who essays the titular role in the upcoming series ‘Charlie Chopra & The Mystery Of Solang Valley’, shared that her father, Govardhan Gabbi played an instrumental part in getting her character right.
The actress was guided and mentored by her father to ace the character of Charlie Chopra.
Talking about the same, Wamiqa said, “I have always believed that the essence of a character lies in its details. Playing Charlie was a remarkable journey for me. My father, Govardhan Gabbi, who is from a literature background, was my guiding light throughout this process.”
She further mentioned: “His assistance in perfecting the Punjabi dialect and dialogues was instrumental in helping me bring authenticity to my character. As a Punjabi myself, I was excited to take on this role and with his support, I felt even more connected to Charlie’s world.”
The series also stars Priyanshu Painyuli, Naseeruddin Shah,...
The actress was guided and mentored by her father to ace the character of Charlie Chopra.
Talking about the same, Wamiqa said, “I have always believed that the essence of a character lies in its details. Playing Charlie was a remarkable journey for me. My father, Govardhan Gabbi, who is from a literature background, was my guiding light throughout this process.”
She further mentioned: “His assistance in perfecting the Punjabi dialect and dialogues was instrumental in helping me bring authenticity to my character. As a Punjabi myself, I was excited to take on this role and with his support, I felt even more connected to Charlie’s world.”
The series also stars Priyanshu Painyuli, Naseeruddin Shah,...
- 9/20/2023
- by Agency News Desk
- GlamSham
National Award winning filmmaker-composer Vishal Bhardwaj has adapted Agatha Christie’s novel ‘The Sittaford Mystery’ into a streaming series tentatively titled ‘Charlie Chopra’. It is set to release the pilot episode preview of the detective thriller on Friday. The pilot episode will take streamer’s subscribers on an interactive escapade.
The series is set in the snow-capped mountains of Himachal Pradesh, and will follow the journey of Charlie Chopra and her pursuit to uncover a deep mystery.
After watching the pilot, viewers will be required to help the protagonist named Charlie Chopra solve the mystery by finding clues and identifying a character to dig deeper. They are also asked to come up with a title.
The series boasts of an ensemble cast featuring Naseeruddin Shah, Neena Gupta, Ratna Pathak Shah, Wamiqa Gabbi, Priyanshu Painyuli, Gulshan Grover, Lara Dutta, Chandan Roy Sanyal, and Paoli Dam.
The series is directed, co-produced, and co-written by Vishal Bhardwaj.
The series is set in the snow-capped mountains of Himachal Pradesh, and will follow the journey of Charlie Chopra and her pursuit to uncover a deep mystery.
After watching the pilot, viewers will be required to help the protagonist named Charlie Chopra solve the mystery by finding clues and identifying a character to dig deeper. They are also asked to come up with a title.
The series boasts of an ensemble cast featuring Naseeruddin Shah, Neena Gupta, Ratna Pathak Shah, Wamiqa Gabbi, Priyanshu Painyuli, Gulshan Grover, Lara Dutta, Chandan Roy Sanyal, and Paoli Dam.
The series is directed, co-produced, and co-written by Vishal Bhardwaj.
- 6/30/2023
- by Agency News Desk
- GlamSham
The Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike has garnered attention from other film industry unions around the world.
India’s Screenwriters Association (Swa) is offering support to the thousands of WGA members and has asked its own members “to down tools on U.S. films and series,” as per Deadline.
Swa, which is India’s major industry guild for writers, emailed over 57,000 of its members on Thursday, explaining the WGA’s reason for calling the strike and to inform them that the association “stands in complete solidarity with our 11,500 sisters and brothers of WGA.”
Read More: ‘House Of The Dragon’ Will Continue Production Amid Writers’ Strike
“We ask all Swa members working on U.S. shows and films to strengthen their protest by stopping work on those, and to not accept any new writing work from the companies in the US affiliated to AMPTP [Association of Motion Picture and Television Producers],” Swa said in an email signed by its General Secretary,...
India’s Screenwriters Association (Swa) is offering support to the thousands of WGA members and has asked its own members “to down tools on U.S. films and series,” as per Deadline.
Swa, which is India’s major industry guild for writers, emailed over 57,000 of its members on Thursday, explaining the WGA’s reason for calling the strike and to inform them that the association “stands in complete solidarity with our 11,500 sisters and brothers of WGA.”
Read More: ‘House Of The Dragon’ Will Continue Production Amid Writers’ Strike
“We ask all Swa members working on U.S. shows and films to strengthen their protest by stopping work on those, and to not accept any new writing work from the companies in the US affiliated to AMPTP [Association of Motion Picture and Television Producers],” Swa said in an email signed by its General Secretary,...
- 5/4/2023
- by Melissa Romualdi
- ET Canada
Exclusive: India’s Screenwriters Association (Swa) has expressed support for the Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike and asked its members to down tools on U.S. films and series.
The Swa, the country’s major industry guild for writers with more than 57,000 members, emailed its membership on Thursday night to explain the WGA’s reasons for calling the strike and to state that the association “stands in complete solidarity with our 11,500 sisters and brothers of WGA.”
“We ask all Swa members working on U.S. shows and films to strengthen their protest by stopping work on those, and to not accept any new writing work from the companies in the US affiliated to AMPTP [Association of Motion Picture and Television Producers],” the Swa said in an email signed by Swa General Secretary Zaman Habib.
“If the WGA strike succeeds, it helps our efforts, by setting a precedent. After all, we shall be negotiating with the Indian...
The Swa, the country’s major industry guild for writers with more than 57,000 members, emailed its membership on Thursday night to explain the WGA’s reasons for calling the strike and to state that the association “stands in complete solidarity with our 11,500 sisters and brothers of WGA.”
“We ask all Swa members working on U.S. shows and films to strengthen their protest by stopping work on those, and to not accept any new writing work from the companies in the US affiliated to AMPTP [Association of Motion Picture and Television Producers],” the Swa said in an email signed by Swa General Secretary Zaman Habib.
“If the WGA strike succeeds, it helps our efforts, by setting a precedent. After all, we shall be negotiating with the Indian...
- 5/4/2023
- by Liz Shackleton
- Deadline Film + TV
Interview ‘Nila’ is one of the two films selected by the Kerala government in the second year of its project to fund women filmmakers. Director Indu Lakshmi talks to Tnm.Indu Lakshmi had listened with interest to one of the last interviews given by the late poet and activist Sugathakumari. It was only an audio clipping, recorded at a time the poet was unwell and tired. But Indu could sense in her voice a fire, a passion that refused to fade. She thought of her own experience at a time of painful surgeries. She believes it is her will power that got her through all that pain. This thought, about what the mind is capable of even when the body is weak, led her to write the story of Nila, the first film she directed. Nila is one of the two films chosen for funding by the Kerala government in...
- 3/6/2023
- by Cris
- The News Minute
Indian streamer SonyLIV has announced an adaptation of Agatha Christie detective novel The Sittaford Mystery, which marks director Vishal Bhardwaj’s debut on a streaming series.
The Hindi-language adaptation, entitled Charlie Chopra & The Mystery Of Solang Valley, is produced by the director’s Vishal Bhardwaj Pictures, along with Priti Shahani’s Tusk Tale Films in association with Agatha Christie Limited.
Bhardwaj has also co-scripted the adaptation, which transplants the action to the mountains of Himachal Pradesh, along with Anjum Rajabali and Jyotsna Hariharan.
The series’ heavyweight ensemble cast includes Wamiqa Gabbi, Priyanshu Painyuli, Naseeruddin Shah, Neena Gupta, Ratna Pathak Shah, Gulshan Grover, Lara Dutta, Chandan Roy Sanyal and Paoli Dam.
James Prichard, Christie’s great grandson and CEO of Agatha Christie Limited, is on board as an Executive Producer. Basi Akpabio and Leo Dezoysa have also taken on the role of Executive Producers on behalf of Agatha Christie Limited.
Bhardwaj...
The Hindi-language adaptation, entitled Charlie Chopra & The Mystery Of Solang Valley, is produced by the director’s Vishal Bhardwaj Pictures, along with Priti Shahani’s Tusk Tale Films in association with Agatha Christie Limited.
Bhardwaj has also co-scripted the adaptation, which transplants the action to the mountains of Himachal Pradesh, along with Anjum Rajabali and Jyotsna Hariharan.
The series’ heavyweight ensemble cast includes Wamiqa Gabbi, Priyanshu Painyuli, Naseeruddin Shah, Neena Gupta, Ratna Pathak Shah, Gulshan Grover, Lara Dutta, Chandan Roy Sanyal and Paoli Dam.
James Prichard, Christie’s great grandson and CEO of Agatha Christie Limited, is on board as an Executive Producer. Basi Akpabio and Leo Dezoysa have also taken on the role of Executive Producers on behalf of Agatha Christie Limited.
Bhardwaj...
- 2/27/2023
- by Liz Shackleton
- Deadline Film + TV
Agatha Christie’s “The Sittaford Mystery” will be adapted as “Charlie Chopra & The Mystery Of Solang Valley” for streamer SonyLIV by renowned Indian filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj.
Set in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh, northern India, the series will follow the journey of Charlie Chopra and her quest to uncover a mystery. Bhardwaj will serve as director and co-producer and co-screenwriter alongside Anjum Rajabali and Jyotsna Hariharan. The cast includes Wamiqa Gabbi, Priyanshu Painyuli, Naseeruddin Shah, Neena Gupta, Ratna Pathak Shah, Gulshan Grover, Lara Dutta, Chandan Roy Sanyal and Paoli Dam.
Vishal Bhardwaj Pictures will produce with Priti Shahani’s Tusk Tale Films in association with Agatha Christie Limited. Bhardwaj’s film franchise based on the works of Christie was announced in 2020.
Bhardwaj is best known internationally for his acclaimed Shakespeare trilogy “Maqbool,” (Macbeth) “Omkara” (Othello) and “Haider” (Hamlet).
James Prichard, Basi Akpabio and Leo Dezoysa will serve as executive producers...
Set in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh, northern India, the series will follow the journey of Charlie Chopra and her quest to uncover a mystery. Bhardwaj will serve as director and co-producer and co-screenwriter alongside Anjum Rajabali and Jyotsna Hariharan. The cast includes Wamiqa Gabbi, Priyanshu Painyuli, Naseeruddin Shah, Neena Gupta, Ratna Pathak Shah, Gulshan Grover, Lara Dutta, Chandan Roy Sanyal and Paoli Dam.
Vishal Bhardwaj Pictures will produce with Priti Shahani’s Tusk Tale Films in association with Agatha Christie Limited. Bhardwaj’s film franchise based on the works of Christie was announced in 2020.
Bhardwaj is best known internationally for his acclaimed Shakespeare trilogy “Maqbool,” (Macbeth) “Omkara” (Othello) and “Haider” (Hamlet).
James Prichard, Basi Akpabio and Leo Dezoysa will serve as executive producers...
- 2/27/2023
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Mumbai, Feb 27 (Ians) Filmmaker-writer-music composer Vishal Bhardwaj, who is known for films such as ‘Kaminey’, ‘Omkara’, ‘Maqbool’ and several others, is adapting British writer Agatha Christie’s mystery novel ‘The Sittaford Mystery’ for the Ott.
The series titled ‘Charlie Chopra & The Mystery Of Solang Valley’, is set in the snow-capped mountains of Himachal Pradesh and will follow the journey of Charlie Chopra and her pursuit to uncover a deep mystery.
Besides donning the hats of director and co-producer, Vishal Bhardwaj also serves as the show’s co-screenwriter, alongside Anjum Rajabali and Jyotsna Hariharan.
Talking about the series, Vishal Bhardwaj said: “I grew up devouring all Agatha Christie tales. Her plots, characters and setting remain unparalleled in the genre and continue to excite storytellers even today.”
The series boasts an impressive ensemble cast featuring Wamiqa Gabbi, Priyanshu Painyuli, Naseeruddin Shah, Neena Gupta, Ratna Pathak Shah, Gulshan Grover, Lara Dutta, Chandan Roy Sanyal,...
The series titled ‘Charlie Chopra & The Mystery Of Solang Valley’, is set in the snow-capped mountains of Himachal Pradesh and will follow the journey of Charlie Chopra and her pursuit to uncover a deep mystery.
Besides donning the hats of director and co-producer, Vishal Bhardwaj also serves as the show’s co-screenwriter, alongside Anjum Rajabali and Jyotsna Hariharan.
Talking about the series, Vishal Bhardwaj said: “I grew up devouring all Agatha Christie tales. Her plots, characters and setting remain unparalleled in the genre and continue to excite storytellers even today.”
The series boasts an impressive ensemble cast featuring Wamiqa Gabbi, Priyanshu Painyuli, Naseeruddin Shah, Neena Gupta, Ratna Pathak Shah, Gulshan Grover, Lara Dutta, Chandan Roy Sanyal,...
- 2/27/2023
- by News Bureau
- GlamSham
FilmsEach of the filmmakers will get an amount of Rs 1.5 crore to finish their work.Tnm StaffFrom left - Shruthi, Sanoj, Arun and InduFour scripts have been chosen by a jury for the Kerala State Film Development Corporation (Ksfdc) to produce in the coming months. The state government is funding two films to be made by women directors, and two by people in the Sc/St category. Each of the filmmakers will get an amount of Rs 1.5 crore to finish their work. Vs Sanoj and Arun J Mohan have won the first and the second places respectively in the Sc/St category. Shruthi Sharanyam and Indu VR have emerged winners in the category of women filmmakers. Shruthi’s film titled B 32 Muthal 44 Vare was chosen for the first place and announced at a press conference by Minister for Culture, Saji Cherian. “It is great that the government is taking such...
- 12/19/2021
- by Cris
- The News Minute
Toofaan (Amazon Prime)
Starring Farhan Akhtar, Mrunal Thakur, Paresh Rawal
Directed by Rakesh Omprakash Mehra
This week, Amazon Prime has a lot to be proud of . Two outstanding feature films Malik in Malayalam and Toofaan in Hindi, although the language in both cases is the least vital component in its vibrant validity and renewable vitality.
Toofaan, I have to admit, starts off sluggishly . As the triumphant underdog’s saga of a goon from Dongri who becomes a national boxoffice champ, Toofaan takeson all the typical tropes of the sports genre: gruff coach, elitist decision-makers, supportive girlfriend and what–have-you.
But then suddenly Toofan changes tracks to become something much more than a sports drama, something far more relevant moving and vital. It become a testament to the power and pain of love in a growingly intolerant society powered by toxic levels of prejudice and suspicion. Following the intercaste marriage of...
Starring Farhan Akhtar, Mrunal Thakur, Paresh Rawal
Directed by Rakesh Omprakash Mehra
This week, Amazon Prime has a lot to be proud of . Two outstanding feature films Malik in Malayalam and Toofaan in Hindi, although the language in both cases is the least vital component in its vibrant validity and renewable vitality.
Toofaan, I have to admit, starts off sluggishly . As the triumphant underdog’s saga of a goon from Dongri who becomes a national boxoffice champ, Toofaan takeson all the typical tropes of the sports genre: gruff coach, elitist decision-makers, supportive girlfriend and what–have-you.
But then suddenly Toofan changes tracks to become something much more than a sports drama, something far more relevant moving and vital. It become a testament to the power and pain of love in a growingly intolerant society powered by toxic levels of prejudice and suspicion. Following the intercaste marriage of...
- 7/16/2021
- by Subhash K Jha
- Bollyspice
Paresh Rawal (Padma Shri and National Award winner
From YouTube Toofan Trailer
), is all set to wow us with another impactful performance in Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s Toofaan presented by Amazon in association with Excel Entertainment and Romp Pictures.
We have learned that the powerhouse actor was the first and only choice to play the role of Farhan Akhtar aka Toofaan’s boxing coach. It is their relationship that establishes both the emotional conflict and bonding in the sports drama’s narrative.
Toofan tells the story of Farhan Akhtar as a reformed goon who seeks to make a name for himself in the sport of boxing. The drama takes audiences on a journey of his fall and triumphant comeback against all odds.
With Toofaan, both Rawal and the director share mutual admiration and respect for each other and hope to entertain audiences with a universally inspiring story.
The director says,...
From YouTube Toofan Trailer
), is all set to wow us with another impactful performance in Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s Toofaan presented by Amazon in association with Excel Entertainment and Romp Pictures.
We have learned that the powerhouse actor was the first and only choice to play the role of Farhan Akhtar aka Toofaan’s boxing coach. It is their relationship that establishes both the emotional conflict and bonding in the sports drama’s narrative.
Toofan tells the story of Farhan Akhtar as a reformed goon who seeks to make a name for himself in the sport of boxing. The drama takes audiences on a journey of his fall and triumphant comeback against all odds.
With Toofaan, both Rawal and the director share mutual admiration and respect for each other and hope to entertain audiences with a universally inspiring story.
The director says,...
- 4/24/2021
- by Stacey Yount
- Bollyspice
The Screenwriters Association (formerly Film Writers’ Association) is a trade union of screenwriters and lyricists who write Films, TV and Digital Media in India with a membership of over 25,000 writers. Recently, the Screenwriters Association (Swa), the Indian guild of screenwriters and lyricists, announced the first ever Swa Awards. Swa is holding the first ever Swa Awards on the occasion of its Diamond Jubilee year in 2020. The final winners will be announced in an online awards ceremony on September 27, 2020.
A jury comprising of eminent screenwriters selected five feature films under each of the sub-categories: Best Story, Best Screenplay, Best Dialogue and Best Debut Writer. Together, the nominations are divided among 10 Hindi language feature films released in 2019. For the purpose of selection of nominees, the Swa Awards Committee accessed 167 of 223 Hindi language feature films released in theatres and on Ott platforms in 2019. A jury comprising of screenwriters such as Ashok Mishra, Atul Tiwari,...
A jury comprising of eminent screenwriters selected five feature films under each of the sub-categories: Best Story, Best Screenplay, Best Dialogue and Best Debut Writer. Together, the nominations are divided among 10 Hindi language feature films released in 2019. For the purpose of selection of nominees, the Swa Awards Committee accessed 167 of 223 Hindi language feature films released in theatres and on Ott platforms in 2019. A jury comprising of screenwriters such as Ashok Mishra, Atul Tiwari,...
- 9/20/2020
- by Stacey Yount
- Bollyspice
This is with reference to current baseless allegations that the script of Shoojit Sircar’s Gulabo Sitabo, written by Juhi Chaturvedi has been copied from another story. We would like to clarify some facts and update the media with relevant information that shows this is a misguided attempt to malign the team.
These claims are by Akira Agarwal, the son of writer late Rajeev Agarwal who had submitted his story in a contest known as “Cinestaan India’s Storyteller Script Contest” promoted by The Screenwriters Association (Swa), a Trade Union of screenwriters and lyricists who work for Films, TV and Digital Media in India. Veteran screenwriter Anjum Rajabali chaired this jury, and Juhi along with 2 more jury members was part of the plan for the final 8 scripts .The final shortlisted scripts (which did not include Akira’s story) came to Juhi and other jury members on 24th October 2018.
The real...
These claims are by Akira Agarwal, the son of writer late Rajeev Agarwal who had submitted his story in a contest known as “Cinestaan India’s Storyteller Script Contest” promoted by The Screenwriters Association (Swa), a Trade Union of screenwriters and lyricists who work for Films, TV and Digital Media in India. Veteran screenwriter Anjum Rajabali chaired this jury, and Juhi along with 2 more jury members was part of the plan for the final 8 scripts .The final shortlisted scripts (which did not include Akira’s story) came to Juhi and other jury members on 24th October 2018.
The real...
- 6/8/2020
- by Joginder Tuteja
- Bollyspice
It has been months that Farhan Akhtar can be seen gearing up for his role in Toofan, which is being directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra in which Farhan plays the role of a boxer. After the 2013 National Award-winning film, Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, Farhan Akhtar and Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra will be bringing back the magic and reuniting for this fictional sports-drama.
In s recent development, the filmmaker has gotten Paresh Rawal on-board to play the boxing coach to Farhan?s character, who comes from a lower-middle-class family. The formalities were locked in April and Paresh Rawal has been training along with Farhan in Mumbai for over a month now.
Promising the best duo on-screen with Farhan Akhtar and Paresh Rawal, filmmaker Mehra said, ?Every director has a bucket list of actors and Paresh bhai was on the top of mine. I am absolutely thrilled to have him entering the Toofan family.
In s recent development, the filmmaker has gotten Paresh Rawal on-board to play the boxing coach to Farhan?s character, who comes from a lower-middle-class family. The formalities were locked in April and Paresh Rawal has been training along with Farhan in Mumbai for over a month now.
Promising the best duo on-screen with Farhan Akhtar and Paresh Rawal, filmmaker Mehra said, ?Every director has a bucket list of actors and Paresh bhai was on the top of mine. I am absolutely thrilled to have him entering the Toofan family.
- 7/30/2019
- GlamSham
Farhan Akhtar is currently leaving no stone unturned to get into the skin of his character for his upcoming film Toofan.
After 2013, 6 years later, the hit combination of Farhan Akhtar and Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra are all set to reunite on screen for a film based on boxing titled Toofan, an Excel Entertainment production in association with Romp Pictures.
Farhan who will be essaying the role of a boxer is training hard to get into a proper shape.?
The actor is seen working out with heavy weights a testimony of which is seen on his social media.?
Farhan shared a picture where the actor is seen skipping with a caption that says, "Gotta stay light on them feet. #Toofaninthemaking".?
The film is not a biopic. It is a fictional story scripted by Anjum Rajabali. Farhan fell in love with it as soon as he heard it. Rakeysh has already started with...
After 2013, 6 years later, the hit combination of Farhan Akhtar and Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra are all set to reunite on screen for a film based on boxing titled Toofan, an Excel Entertainment production in association with Romp Pictures.
Farhan who will be essaying the role of a boxer is training hard to get into a proper shape.?
The actor is seen working out with heavy weights a testimony of which is seen on his social media.?
Farhan shared a picture where the actor is seen skipping with a caption that says, "Gotta stay light on them feet. #Toofaninthemaking".?
The film is not a biopic. It is a fictional story scripted by Anjum Rajabali. Farhan fell in love with it as soon as he heard it. Rakeysh has already started with...
- 2/1/2019
- GlamSham
Esteemed actor Boman Irani is all set to start a new chapter his life – that of producer. Today, in a special event, Mr. Irani launched his own Production House titled Irani Movietone.
The event was inaugurated by Mr. Amitabh Bachchan. What is really cool and unique is that instead of the usual gala party that takes place after any launch event, Mr Irani opted for a very special way of celebrating this new journey. He arranged a day long workshop with the Academy Award winning Screenplay Writer Alexander Dinelaris.
Students from various film institutions like Ftii, Whistling Woods, Xavier’s Institute of Communication etc. attended the workshop. Renowned names of the industry like Mr. Siddharth Roy Kapur, Mr. Anjum Rajabali, Mr. Ronnie Screwvala, Ms Shobha Sant, Ms Jyoti Deshpande along with Mr. Emraan Hashmi, Ms Radhika Apte attended the event. We also hear that Mr. Irani plans to make this as an annual event.
The event was inaugurated by Mr. Amitabh Bachchan. What is really cool and unique is that instead of the usual gala party that takes place after any launch event, Mr Irani opted for a very special way of celebrating this new journey. He arranged a day long workshop with the Academy Award winning Screenplay Writer Alexander Dinelaris.
Students from various film institutions like Ftii, Whistling Woods, Xavier’s Institute of Communication etc. attended the workshop. Renowned names of the industry like Mr. Siddharth Roy Kapur, Mr. Anjum Rajabali, Mr. Ronnie Screwvala, Ms Shobha Sant, Ms Jyoti Deshpande along with Mr. Emraan Hashmi, Ms Radhika Apte attended the event. We also hear that Mr. Irani plans to make this as an annual event.
- 1/24/2019
- by Stacey Yount
- Bollyspice
Siddarth Roy Kapur, founder of Roy Kapur Films has an exciting array of movies to showcase to the audience. He unveiled the future plans of the production house in an exclusive chat with a leading international website.
Besides, The Sky is Pink, starring, Priyanka Chopra, Zaira Wasim and Farhan Akhtar, Roy Kapur Films’ next production is Saare Jahaan Se Achcha, which will be directed by Mahesh Mathai of Bhopal Express fame and written by Anjum Rajabali. The film is a biopic on Rakesh Sharma, the first Indian astronaut. A joint production with RSVP, the movie will feature an A-list cast, the announcement of which will be made by the end of this year followed by the movie going on floors in February.
Next in line is Sindbad, a thriller inspired by merchant navy officer, Audumbar Bhoi whose ship was attacked by Somali pirates. Directed by Vinil Mathew, the script has...
Besides, The Sky is Pink, starring, Priyanka Chopra, Zaira Wasim and Farhan Akhtar, Roy Kapur Films’ next production is Saare Jahaan Se Achcha, which will be directed by Mahesh Mathai of Bhopal Express fame and written by Anjum Rajabali. The film is a biopic on Rakesh Sharma, the first Indian astronaut. A joint production with RSVP, the movie will feature an A-list cast, the announcement of which will be made by the end of this year followed by the movie going on floors in February.
Next in line is Sindbad, a thriller inspired by merchant navy officer, Audumbar Bhoi whose ship was attacked by Somali pirates. Directed by Vinil Mathew, the script has...
- 10/23/2018
- by Stacey Yount
- Bollyspice
Former MD of Disney India, Siddharth Roy Kapur has revealed an eclectic range of films to be produced by his production company Roy Kapur Films.
“Saare Jahaan Se Achcha,” to be directed by Mahesh Mathai (“Bhopal Express”), and written by Anjum Rajabali is a biopic of Rakesh Sharma, the first Indian in space. An A-list cast will be announced by the end of the year ahead of a production start in February. The film is a co-production with Ronnie Screwvala’s RSVP.
Vinil Mathew (“Hasee Toh Phasee”) will direct “Sinbad,” a thriller inspired by merchant navy officer Audumbar Bhoi, whose ship was attacked by Somali pirates, from a script by Sudip Sharma (“NH10”). Casting is underway.
In 2019, Sooni Taraporewala (“Little Zizou”) will direct “Ballet Boys.” The fact-based story follows two Mumbai slum boys, one a Hindu and the other Muslim, who shoot to global prominence after being discovered by an Israeli dance instructor.
“Saare Jahaan Se Achcha,” to be directed by Mahesh Mathai (“Bhopal Express”), and written by Anjum Rajabali is a biopic of Rakesh Sharma, the first Indian in space. An A-list cast will be announced by the end of the year ahead of a production start in February. The film is a co-production with Ronnie Screwvala’s RSVP.
Vinil Mathew (“Hasee Toh Phasee”) will direct “Sinbad,” a thriller inspired by merchant navy officer Audumbar Bhoi, whose ship was attacked by Somali pirates, from a script by Sudip Sharma (“NH10”). Casting is underway.
In 2019, Sooni Taraporewala (“Little Zizou”) will direct “Ballet Boys.” The fact-based story follows two Mumbai slum boys, one a Hindu and the other Muslim, who shoot to global prominence after being discovered by an Israeli dance instructor.
- 10/22/2018
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Life is sometimes a quest for eternity. The thirst for this quest can be for freedom from this materialistic world or could be for the unending love trapped in the middle of the din and bustle of the civilization. Soul wants to escape from this mortal body for the ultimate freedom. And this freedom can be achieved through the path of pure love. The mind strives to reach the ocean of love through this quest for absolute freedom.Director Daria Gai has portrayed all these thoughts and emotions of human life in the movie “Teen Aur Aadha”.
“Teen Aur Adha” runas part of the 9th edition of the Bagri Foundation London Indian Film Festival
The movie spreads across a time frame of fifty years, depicting three phases of human life – child, youth and old, in the backdrop of a storyline that portrays the human soul’s strive to fulfill its thirst for pure love,...
“Teen Aur Adha” runas part of the 9th edition of the Bagri Foundation London Indian Film Festival
The movie spreads across a time frame of fifty years, depicting three phases of human life – child, youth and old, in the backdrop of a storyline that portrays the human soul’s strive to fulfill its thirst for pure love,...
- 7/11/2018
- by Sankha Ray
- AsianMoviePulse
Siddharth Roy Kapur has signed director Vinil Mathew and screenwriter Sudip Sharma for his next film to be produced under the Roy Kapur Films banner. Vinil Mathew is a renowned ad filmmaker who made his feature film debut with the acclaimed new-age romance, Hasee Toh Phasee. Sudip Sharma is the acclaimed writer of NH10 and Udta Punjab, and is widely acknowledged as one of the foremost screenwriters in the country.
Siddharth Roy Kapur confirmed the news, “Yes, we will be collaborating with Vinil and Sudip on a unique and exciting subject that our team has been developing for many months. The film is based on true events involving piracy on the Somalian high seas and is told through the eyes of a young Indian merchant navy officer, who has to navigate through unimaginably perilous circumstances, while dealing with huge personal challenges. It is a thrilling, dramatic and emotional journey, and...
Siddharth Roy Kapur confirmed the news, “Yes, we will be collaborating with Vinil and Sudip on a unique and exciting subject that our team has been developing for many months. The film is based on true events involving piracy on the Somalian high seas and is told through the eyes of a young Indian merchant navy officer, who has to navigate through unimaginably perilous circumstances, while dealing with huge personal challenges. It is a thrilling, dramatic and emotional journey, and...
- 12/17/2017
- by Stacey Yount
- Bollyspice
Exclusive/Film Bazaar: The music powerhouse wants to produce 100 films in the next five years.
Indian powerhouse music label Saregama is planning to produce 100 films in the next five years to build a significant library of indie Indian films with budgets of about $500,000 each.
The first three films are already in production with the next group of films, mostly genre-based in a variety of Indian languages, at different stages of pre-production.
Shooting now are Devashish Makhija’s Hindi-language revenge story Ajji, Samit Kakkad’s Hindi and English-language love story AscharyaFuckIt; and Nikhil Bhatt’s Brij Mohan Amar Rahe, a satire of the legal system.
Vikram Mehra, managing director of Saregama, told Screen, “We are most interested in producing eclectic, niche and tricky topics where story is the key. While the story and budget are central criteria, we are looking at a model that is not dependent on a theatrical release, which takes off...
Indian powerhouse music label Saregama is planning to produce 100 films in the next five years to build a significant library of indie Indian films with budgets of about $500,000 each.
The first three films are already in production with the next group of films, mostly genre-based in a variety of Indian languages, at different stages of pre-production.
Shooting now are Devashish Makhija’s Hindi-language revenge story Ajji, Samit Kakkad’s Hindi and English-language love story AscharyaFuckIt; and Nikhil Bhatt’s Brij Mohan Amar Rahe, a satire of the legal system.
Vikram Mehra, managing director of Saregama, told Screen, “We are most interested in producing eclectic, niche and tricky topics where story is the key. While the story and budget are central criteria, we are looking at a model that is not dependent on a theatrical release, which takes off...
- 11/22/2016
- by uditaj@gmail.com (Udita Jhunjhunwala)
- ScreenDaily
With the current evolution in screenplay in movies, Whistling Woods International has announced a 5-day writing workshop for aspiring screenwriters by industry stalwart Anjum Rajabali along with 12 senior writers & directors.
In the last couple of years, the Indian film industry has witnessed a renaissance of sorts in terms of content and screenplay. More films are breaking the conventional mould relying confidently on bold scripts, which are widely accepted by the audiences. Movies like Queen, Badlapur, Haider, Dum Laga Ke Haisha, The Lunchbox, Delhi Belly, Udaan, Nh-10 and Vicky Donor have received an amazing response solely on basis of a strong screenplay. Gradually & steadily, the scriptwriters are moving to center-stage.
The workshop is designed to help & guide new & aspiring writers. It will also be useful for experienced writers who want to revisit & strengthen their understanding of the craft. Some of the biggest names in Indian screenwriting, including those who are, right now,...
In the last couple of years, the Indian film industry has witnessed a renaissance of sorts in terms of content and screenplay. More films are breaking the conventional mould relying confidently on bold scripts, which are widely accepted by the audiences. Movies like Queen, Badlapur, Haider, Dum Laga Ke Haisha, The Lunchbox, Delhi Belly, Udaan, Nh-10 and Vicky Donor have received an amazing response solely on basis of a strong screenplay. Gradually & steadily, the scriptwriters are moving to center-stage.
The workshop is designed to help & guide new & aspiring writers. It will also be useful for experienced writers who want to revisit & strengthen their understanding of the craft. Some of the biggest names in Indian screenwriting, including those who are, right now,...
- 4/23/2015
- by Press Releases
- Bollyspice
Popular screenwriter Anjum Rajabali who has worked with prominent filmmakers like Prakash Jha and Rajkumar Santoshi, is all set to team up with director Mahesh Mathai of Highlight films who has previously directed the 1999 film Bhopal Express, for his next. Also, considering the way biopic are earning rave reviews from audience and critics alike, Anjum will be following the suit. According to Rajabali, his next will be a biopic on a living person who is an army officer. Though the details of the cast are yet to be finalized, Anjum further mentioned that he is planning to rope in an A-lister for the film. Moreover, Anjum Rajabali is also working towards gaining fame in regional cinema. He is currently teaming up with Malayalam director Shaji N. Karun who had last directed the film Swapaanam (2014) starring Jayaram. He, being a prominent figure in the world of screenwriting and screenplay and heading...
- 9/11/2014
- by Bollywood Hungama News Network
- BollywoodHungama
Screenwriter Anjum Rajabali, who is known for his work in Satyagraha, Aarakshan and Raajneeti among others, has joined hands with Mumbai Mantra for their new initiative - Mumbai Mantra Cine Rise Screenwriting Programme '100 Storytellers A Year', which was announced of late. With Anjum Rajabali as its Convenor, the Mumbai Mantra Cine Rise Screenwriting Programme is a detailed step-by-step process of nurturing, which will have 8 defined stages of creative intervention. The Programme invites applications from enthusiastic and determined Indian screenwriters from any part of the world. The programme is also open to non-resident Indians and even those with mixed Indian parentage. For which the submission date is August 20. Said Anjum Rajabali, "Indian screenwriting is in an exciting phase right now, and poised to take a leap to another level. Young aspirants are coming up with very promising work. By giving a much-needed boost to their efforts, this programme will help...
- 8/16/2014
- by Bollywood Hungama News Network
- BollywoodHungama
After its three-year association with the Sundance Institute for the Mumbai Mantra – Sundance Screenwriters’ Lab came to an end; Mumbai Mantra has now launched ‘The Mumbai Mantra CineRise Screenwriting Programme’, an 8-step lab for screenwriters.
In the first stage of submission, screenwriters need to submit:
Story: The complete story on which your script will be based. Should have 6-8 pages with a beginning, middle and an end. Writer’S Statement: A 2-page note outlining what your project is about. Do explain what motivated you to tell this story, and why you believe you are best placed to write it. If you have a view on how the project should be treated (sensibilities, style, etc.), do share in this note. Writer’S Bio With Contact Details: Attach your bio-data. You can send the bio-data of other key team members (producer, director, DoP, etc.) if they are already attached to the project.
In the first stage of submission, screenwriters need to submit:
Story: The complete story on which your script will be based. Should have 6-8 pages with a beginning, middle and an end. Writer’S Statement: A 2-page note outlining what your project is about. Do explain what motivated you to tell this story, and why you believe you are best placed to write it. If you have a view on how the project should be treated (sensibilities, style, etc.), do share in this note. Writer’S Bio With Contact Details: Attach your bio-data. You can send the bio-data of other key team members (producer, director, DoP, etc.) if they are already attached to the project.
- 7/9/2014
- by NewsDesk
- DearCinema.com
The Mumbai Mantra Sundance Institute Screenwriters Lab announced the eight fellows of the 2014 lab today.
Ashvin Kumar (Noor) Bornila Chatterjee (Nuclear Hearts) Neeraj Ghaywan and Varun Grover (Fly Away Solo) Gaurav Madan (Shaktipur Crude) Deepanjali B Sarkar (Svadharma) Sanjay Talreja (The River Murder) Navneet Behal (Experiments with Truth), co-written with Maitrey Bajpai and Ramiz Ilham Khan Dylan Mohan Gray (The Last Day of Winter), co-written with Vikramaditya Motwane)
The selected writers will be mentored by American and Indian screenwriters such as Golden Globe winner Naomi Foner (Running on Empty, Golden Globe for Best Screenplay and Oscar nomination in the same category), Sooni Taraporevala (Salaam Bombay). Here is the complete list of mentors:-
Naomi Foner
Michael Handelman
Dante Harper
James V Hart
Anjum Rajabali
Malia Scotch Marmo
Elena Soarez
Sooni Taraporevala
Rose Troche...
Ashvin Kumar (Noor) Bornila Chatterjee (Nuclear Hearts) Neeraj Ghaywan and Varun Grover (Fly Away Solo) Gaurav Madan (Shaktipur Crude) Deepanjali B Sarkar (Svadharma) Sanjay Talreja (The River Murder) Navneet Behal (Experiments with Truth), co-written with Maitrey Bajpai and Ramiz Ilham Khan Dylan Mohan Gray (The Last Day of Winter), co-written with Vikramaditya Motwane)
The selected writers will be mentored by American and Indian screenwriters such as Golden Globe winner Naomi Foner (Running on Empty, Golden Globe for Best Screenplay and Oscar nomination in the same category), Sooni Taraporevala (Salaam Bombay). Here is the complete list of mentors:-
Naomi Foner
Michael Handelman
Dante Harper
James V Hart
Anjum Rajabali
Malia Scotch Marmo
Elena Soarez
Sooni Taraporevala
Rose Troche...
- 3/16/2014
- by NewsDesk
- DearCinema.com
Nudity in Steve McQueen's slavery drama is not cut by Indian film censor, after scenes are deemed 'necessary'
12 Years A Slave, the drama following the unjust enslavement of a free man in antebellum America, is the first to pass Indian censors for full-frontal nudity. It was originally to have nine cuts made to it, but a review found the nude scenes to be "necessary" and kept them in "based on merit".
The film's director Steve McQueen celebrated the decision in an interview with Indian newspaper DNA. "As a filmmaker, I needed to see the lashes on the back. I needed to see the pyschological effect afterward. If I hadn't done that, I would have done a disservice because that evidence had to be shown. The lynching had to be depicted in the best possible manner because it happened to hundreds of thousands of people. As someone whose ancestors experienced it,...
12 Years A Slave, the drama following the unjust enslavement of a free man in antebellum America, is the first to pass Indian censors for full-frontal nudity. It was originally to have nine cuts made to it, but a review found the nude scenes to be "necessary" and kept them in "based on merit".
The film's director Steve McQueen celebrated the decision in an interview with Indian newspaper DNA. "As a filmmaker, I needed to see the lashes on the back. I needed to see the pyschological effect afterward. If I hadn't done that, I would have done a disservice because that evidence had to be shown. The lynching had to be depicted in the best possible manner because it happened to hundreds of thousands of people. As someone whose ancestors experienced it,...
- 2/7/2014
- by Ben Beaumont-Thomas
- The Guardian - Film News
Sundance Institute and Mahindra today announced the winners of the 2014 Sundance Institute | Mahindra Global Filmmaking Award, in recognition and support of emerging independent filmmakers from around the world. The winning directors and projects are Hong Khaou, Monsoon from Vietnam/UK; Tobias Lindholm, A War from Denmark; Ashlee Page, Archive from Australia; and Neeraj Ghaywan, Fly Away Solo from India.
The awards were presented at a private ceremony at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah, U.S.A., by Rohit Khattar, Chairman, Mumbai Mantra, Michelle Satter, Founding Director, Feature Film Program, Sundance Institute, and Paul Federbush, International Director, Feature Film Program, Sundance Institute.
Now in its fourth year, the Sundance Institute | Mahindra Global Filmmaking Award is part of a multifaceted collaboration that exemplifies a commitment to and support of world cinema by the Mahindra Group, one of the largest industrial conglomerates in India known throughout the world for its...
The awards were presented at a private ceremony at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah, U.S.A., by Rohit Khattar, Chairman, Mumbai Mantra, Michelle Satter, Founding Director, Feature Film Program, Sundance Institute, and Paul Federbush, International Director, Feature Film Program, Sundance Institute.
Now in its fourth year, the Sundance Institute | Mahindra Global Filmmaking Award is part of a multifaceted collaboration that exemplifies a commitment to and support of world cinema by the Mahindra Group, one of the largest industrial conglomerates in India known throughout the world for its...
- 1/25/2014
- by Press Releases
- Bollyspice
The first edition of the Mumbai Women’s International Film Festival, organized by Oculus Creations and supported by Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (Mtdc) will commence on 8th October. The main idea of this festival is to boost female filmmakers in the industry.
This cause has been largely supported by Bollywood and some of them are Zoya Akhtar, Nandita Das, Reema Kagti, Farah Khan, Renuka Shahane, Honey Irani and Sumitra Bhave. These influential women will contribute to this cause by visiting the fest or by screening their films.
A few workshops have been organized by Piyush Mishra, Honey Irani, Aparna Sud, Rachna Rastogi, Sharmishta Roy, Anjum Rajabali, Alankrita Srivastav, Shaan, Kamlesh Pandey, K.U Mohanan, Ashima Chhiber, Dr. Achala Nagar and Aruna Raje.
This festival will go on for 7 days and will reportedly screen more than 150 films at six different venues across 70 nations.
Mumbai Women’s International Film Festival starts on...
This cause has been largely supported by Bollywood and some of them are Zoya Akhtar, Nandita Das, Reema Kagti, Farah Khan, Renuka Shahane, Honey Irani and Sumitra Bhave. These influential women will contribute to this cause by visiting the fest or by screening their films.
A few workshops have been organized by Piyush Mishra, Honey Irani, Aparna Sud, Rachna Rastogi, Sharmishta Roy, Anjum Rajabali, Alankrita Srivastav, Shaan, Kamlesh Pandey, K.U Mohanan, Ashima Chhiber, Dr. Achala Nagar and Aruna Raje.
This festival will go on for 7 days and will reportedly screen more than 150 films at six different venues across 70 nations.
Mumbai Women’s International Film Festival starts on...
- 9/19/2013
- by Samreen Tungekar
- Bollyspice
Now this is one secret that was pretty much well guarded for almost a year. However now that just 10 days remain for the release of Satyagraha, it is waiting to be told. Satyagraha, which has gone through its good share of speculations and rumours, has finally put its cards on the table. As has been revealed, the film is actually Raajneeti 2 and is second in the trilogy that Prakash Jha is in the process of putting together. Confirms a source, "This was always on the anvil but making an early revelation would have diverted the focus from what Satyagraha actually intends to tell. The very mention of Raajneeti would have taken the entire course of marketing and promotion in an altogether different direction and it was felt by all that this was best avoided. Why to piggyback on the trilogy factor when you have so much to tell as a standalone film?...
- 8/21/2013
- BollywoodHungama
In its 2nd year, Cinema 100 – the annual celebration of films, organized by Whistling Woods International commenced today in Mumbai amidst high excitement and participation.
The day commenced with an engaging discussion on the ‘screenwriting panel’ between Subhash Ghai, Salim Khan and Anjum Rajabali on the perks or drawbacks and the role of screenwriters in the industry. With a brief summarization of the evolution of screenwriters in the industry and a mention of the recent Film Writers’ Movement, this rapid-fire panel discussion left the audience enthralled, who were fascinated to learn about the inner workings of the screenwriting industry. The session also entailed a discussion of the elements crucial in creating a good script.
Salim Khan shared with the audience his humble beginning in the industry. ‘The most important thing I’ve learnt is that you need to do a self-assessment. You need to know your weaknesses and finer points. Another...
The day commenced with an engaging discussion on the ‘screenwriting panel’ between Subhash Ghai, Salim Khan and Anjum Rajabali on the perks or drawbacks and the role of screenwriters in the industry. With a brief summarization of the evolution of screenwriters in the industry and a mention of the recent Film Writers’ Movement, this rapid-fire panel discussion left the audience enthralled, who were fascinated to learn about the inner workings of the screenwriting industry. The session also entailed a discussion of the elements crucial in creating a good script.
Salim Khan shared with the audience his humble beginning in the industry. ‘The most important thing I’ve learnt is that you need to do a self-assessment. You need to know your weaknesses and finer points. Another...
- 5/13/2013
- by Pooja Rao
- Bollyspice
On May 11 and 12, 2013, the La India Film Council will be hosting various workshops during a two day celebration at Subhash Ghai's film school academy, Whistling Woods International, to pay tribute to 100 years of Indian cinema. The highlight of the event will be a 19 min screening of first ever motion picture Raja Harishchandra (The national film archive of India has only the 19 minutes of the film) along with an exhibition of some rare pictures from 100 years of Indian Films. If that wasn't all, the two day festival will also feature multiple screenings of a five minutes preview of Sholay in 3D. The workshops supported by La India Film Council will focus on range of contemporary topics of filmmaking such as top motion animation, green screen compositing technique, mobile film making, 3D animation and editing. Special workshops hosted by industry experts include the fortitude of Indian Cinema by Amrit Gangar, acclaimed film scholar,...
- 5/9/2013
- by Bollywood Hungama News Network
- BollywoodHungama
Prakash Jha known for his hard hitting film is currently busy working on his next Satyagraha. Though the filming process is still underway, the director has decided to convert the script of the film into a book. In fact Jha, along with his co-writer Anjum Rajabali, is working on the script again, to modify it into a book. However, if you're wondering if the book will reveal the film, the makers are planning to launch the book a week after its release. Jointly produced by Utv Motion Pictures and Prakash Jha Productions, Satyagraha examines the current socio-political system in India. Starring Amitabh Bachchan, Ajay Devgn, Kareena Kapoor, Arjun Rampal, Manoj Bajpayee and Amrita Rao, the film is slated for release in August.
- 3/22/2013
- by Bollywood Hungama News Network
- BollywoodHungama
Sooni Taraporevala [Photo:Siddharth Dhanvant Shanghvi]
S alaam Bombay! that is being re-released today marked the beginning of Sooni Taraporevala’s screenwriting career and a momentous association with filmmaker Mira Nair twenty-five years ago. Since then, Sooni Taraporevala has given memorable screenplays like The Namesake and Mississippi Masala that won her the Osella award for Best Screenplay at the Venice Film Festival in 1991. She has also dabbled in direction with Little Zizou (2008). Taraporevala talks about her first film, the Cannes Camera d’Or winner and Oscar-nominated Salaam Bombay!, the art of adaptation, her friend Mira Nair and her plans for direction:
Twenty-five years since you wrote your first screenplay. How do you feel about it now?
I think it’s one of the best I have written. We saw the movie again last week and everyone’s comments were that it looks like it was made yesterday. It has not dated except for the...
S alaam Bombay! that is being re-released today marked the beginning of Sooni Taraporevala’s screenwriting career and a momentous association with filmmaker Mira Nair twenty-five years ago. Since then, Sooni Taraporevala has given memorable screenplays like The Namesake and Mississippi Masala that won her the Osella award for Best Screenplay at the Venice Film Festival in 1991. She has also dabbled in direction with Little Zizou (2008). Taraporevala talks about her first film, the Cannes Camera d’Or winner and Oscar-nominated Salaam Bombay!, the art of adaptation, her friend Mira Nair and her plans for direction:
Twenty-five years since you wrote your first screenplay. How do you feel about it now?
I think it’s one of the best I have written. We saw the movie again last week and everyone’s comments were that it looks like it was made yesterday. It has not dated except for the...
- 3/22/2013
- by Nandita Dutta
- DearCinema.com
Prakash Jha is not limiting his next venture, Satyagraha, just to a film. The director, along with his co-writer Anjum Rajabali, is working on the script again, to modify it into a book. The film has been written very critically. It includes many underlying facts which might not be known to the masses. So Prakash Jha has decided to compile the script into a full-fledged book. Read More...
- 3/21/2013
- Bollywood Trade
Mumbai, March 21: Filmmaker Prakash Jha, who is busy shooting his new political drama "Satyagraha" in Bhopal, has plans to turn the film's story into a novel that will be published post the movie's release.
"Prakash Jha and Anjum Rajabali have come up with a fantastic script called 'Satyagraha' and the makers are of the opinion that the script should also be published as a book," said a source close to the team.
"The script will be transformed into a novel which will be published post the release of the film. The story of the film is very powerful and will connect with the youth of the country," the source added.
The.
"Prakash Jha and Anjum Rajabali have come up with a fantastic script called 'Satyagraha' and the makers are of the opinion that the script should also be published as a book," said a source close to the team.
"The script will be transformed into a novel which will be published post the release of the film. The story of the film is very powerful and will connect with the youth of the country," the source added.
The.
- 3/21/2013
- by Rahul Kapoor
- RealBollywood.com
Prakash Jha is not limiting his next venture, Satyagraha, just to a film. The director, along with his co-writer Anjum Rajabali, is working on the script again, to modify it into a book. The film has been written very critically. It includes many underlying facts which might not be known to the masses. So Prakash Jha has decided to compile the script into a full-fledged book. The makers are planning to launch the book a week after the release of the film since they don'...
- 3/21/2013
- GlamSham
Mumbai Mantra|Sundance Institute Screenwriters’ Lab 2013 announced the eight fellows of the second edition of the lab on Sunday.
The creative advisers of the Lab are: Screenwriters Bill Wheeler (The Hoax, The Reluctant Fundamentalist), Anjum Rajabali (Ghulam, The Legend of Bhagat Singh, Raajneeti), Malia Scotch Marmo (Hook, Jurrasic Park), Sabrina Dhawan (Monsoon Wedding, Kaminey, Ishqiya); BAFTA award winning filmmaker Asif Kapadia (The Warrior, Senna); Mexican screenwriter, director and film producer Carlos Cuaron (Y Tu Mama Tambien, Solo Con Tu Pareja); Indian screenwriter and director Habib Faisal (Do Dooni Chaar, Ishaqzaade); writer-director Joshua Marston (The Forgiveness of Blood, Maria Full of Grace) and writer-producer Marti Noxon ( I Am Number Four, Fright Night).
Selected projects:
Betamax by Terrie Samundra
Betamax is set in the summer of 1976 in London on the brink of a youth uprising. The South Asian ghetto of Southall pulses with the sounds of dancehall, punk and bhangra. Gurmel, a Sikh cornershop owner,...
The creative advisers of the Lab are: Screenwriters Bill Wheeler (The Hoax, The Reluctant Fundamentalist), Anjum Rajabali (Ghulam, The Legend of Bhagat Singh, Raajneeti), Malia Scotch Marmo (Hook, Jurrasic Park), Sabrina Dhawan (Monsoon Wedding, Kaminey, Ishqiya); BAFTA award winning filmmaker Asif Kapadia (The Warrior, Senna); Mexican screenwriter, director and film producer Carlos Cuaron (Y Tu Mama Tambien, Solo Con Tu Pareja); Indian screenwriter and director Habib Faisal (Do Dooni Chaar, Ishaqzaade); writer-director Joshua Marston (The Forgiveness of Blood, Maria Full of Grace) and writer-producer Marti Noxon ( I Am Number Four, Fright Night).
Selected projects:
Betamax by Terrie Samundra
Betamax is set in the summer of 1976 in London on the brink of a youth uprising. The South Asian ghetto of Southall pulses with the sounds of dancehall, punk and bhangra. Gurmel, a Sikh cornershop owner,...
- 3/11/2013
- by NewsDesk
- DearCinema.com
Anjum Rajabali
T he 3rd Indian Screenwriters’ Conference begins in Mumbai today, where 800 screenwriters are expected to deliberate on the creative and legal facets of screenwriting. Ahead of the conference, screenwriter Anjum Rajabali (Rajneeti, Pukar, The Legend of Bhagat Singh), the convener of the conference talks to DearCinema about some of the most pressing issues for writers:
How far have writers been successful in getting the Copyright Amendment Act implemented?
Right now, the new Copyright Board is being formed which will then confirm the rules that will make the amended Act operational. So really speaking, it is not in the writers’ hands. We have made our presentation to the Registrar at the meetings of stakeholders that were convened a few months ago. And we are ready with our flow-chart and plan of action, as soon as the Board calls us for that final meeting to confirm the protocols involved.
See,...
T he 3rd Indian Screenwriters’ Conference begins in Mumbai today, where 800 screenwriters are expected to deliberate on the creative and legal facets of screenwriting. Ahead of the conference, screenwriter Anjum Rajabali (Rajneeti, Pukar, The Legend of Bhagat Singh), the convener of the conference talks to DearCinema about some of the most pressing issues for writers:
How far have writers been successful in getting the Copyright Amendment Act implemented?
Right now, the new Copyright Board is being formed which will then confirm the rules that will make the amended Act operational. So really speaking, it is not in the writers’ hands. We have made our presentation to the Registrar at the meetings of stakeholders that were convened a few months ago. And we are ready with our flow-chart and plan of action, as soon as the Board calls us for that final meeting to confirm the protocols involved.
See,...
- 2/25/2013
- by Nandita Dutta
- DearCinema.com
The 3rd Indian Screenwriters’ Conference will be held from February 25 – 27, 2013 in St. Andrew’s Auditorium, Bandra, Mumbai. Organised by the Film Writers Association (Fwa), the agenda of the conference is divided in two parts: ‘creative issues’ and ‘professional and legal issues’ facing television and film writers.
Only Fwa members are eligible to attend the event. Non-members will need to register as members first. For more details write to: screenwritersconference@gmail.com
Here is a detailed schedule of the conference:
Day 1: Monday, February 25
10am – 10:20am: Introduction to the Conference by Convenor & Co-Convenor, Isc
10:20am – 10:30am: Welcome Address by President, Fwa
10:30am – 11:00am: Chief Guest Javed Akhtar’s address
11:00am – 11:30am: Special Guest Tom Schulman’s address
11:30am – 11:45am: Tea/Coffee break
11:45am – 12:30pm: Keynote Speech by Shiv Vishwanathan
12:30pm – 01:00pm: Audience Q&A with Keynote Speaker
01:...
Only Fwa members are eligible to attend the event. Non-members will need to register as members first. For more details write to: screenwritersconference@gmail.com
Here is a detailed schedule of the conference:
Day 1: Monday, February 25
10am – 10:20am: Introduction to the Conference by Convenor & Co-Convenor, Isc
10:20am – 10:30am: Welcome Address by President, Fwa
10:30am – 11:00am: Chief Guest Javed Akhtar’s address
11:00am – 11:30am: Special Guest Tom Schulman’s address
11:30am – 11:45am: Tea/Coffee break
11:45am – 12:30pm: Keynote Speech by Shiv Vishwanathan
12:30pm – 01:00pm: Audience Q&A with Keynote Speaker
01:...
- 2/19/2013
- by NewsDesk
- DearCinema.com
Indo-German Film Week begins in Berlin on Tuesday with film screenings, workshops, interactions and master classes, all presenting the Indian film and media world to the German and International audiences. Organised by Life Entertainment and Babylon Berlin, the film week will run till 11th February, 2013.
“We want to show the German and international audience the whole variety of Indian Cinema, that there is much more than just“song and dance films”. But we will also show the vibrant Fiction Production in Germany which is internationally recognized for its high quality Movies Made for TV”, states the Indo-German Film Week website.
The highlight of the event is the IndoGerman Screenwriting Workshop from 5th to 7th February involving lectures by Anjum Rajabali, screenwriter and head of screenwriting department at Ftii, Keith Cunningham, a German screenwriter and consultant; Jochen Brunow, author and head of the German Film and Television Academy, Berlin, who will talk about principles of storytelling,...
“We want to show the German and international audience the whole variety of Indian Cinema, that there is much more than just“song and dance films”. But we will also show the vibrant Fiction Production in Germany which is internationally recognized for its high quality Movies Made for TV”, states the Indo-German Film Week website.
The highlight of the event is the IndoGerman Screenwriting Workshop from 5th to 7th February involving lectures by Anjum Rajabali, screenwriter and head of screenwriting department at Ftii, Keith Cunningham, a German screenwriter and consultant; Jochen Brunow, author and head of the German Film and Television Academy, Berlin, who will talk about principles of storytelling,...
- 2/5/2013
- by NewsDesk
- DearCinema.com
Life Entertainment and Babylon Berlin will be hosting a week of film premieres, workshops and events about Indian cinema from February 5th to 11th, 2013, in Berlin on the sidelines of the 63rd Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale). At the IndoGerman Screenwriting Workshop from Feb. 5th to 7th, lecturers such as Anjum Rajabali, screenwriter and head of screenwriting department at Ftii, Keith Cunningham, Jochen Brunow, author and head of screenwriting academy dffb, will...
- 1/24/2013
- by Rajesh Kumar Singh, Glamsham Editorial
- GlamSham
It looks like Vishal Bhardwaj's fight against censorial diktats has this time gone in the censor board's favour. Contrary to reports that Bhardwaj's new film Matru Ki Bijlee Ka Mandola has been served an all-clear 'UA' certificate, the director had to modify the word 'paincho' from the film at several points before certification. Says a reliable source, "Vishal Bhardwaj's films have always contained unabashed language. His characters speak in the brutally basic language of the grass root from the Northern belt. In Matru... Pankaj Kapoor repeatedly uses the term 'paincho' as a takiyakalaam. Now, anyone with a reasonable vocabulary of North Indian expletives knows 'paincho' is cop-out expression for profanity in Hindi. Vishal argued that there was a difference between the cussword and what Pankaj Kapoor said. And when the Examining Committee refused to pass the offensive-sounding word Vishal went to the Revising Committee. But the difference didn't...
- 1/8/2013
- by Subhash K. Jha
- BollywoodHungama
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