Aashiq Abu, the acclaimed Malayalam film director, producer and actor, is all set to make his debut in the web series format. According to reliable sources, Abu is currently working on a script for a web series that will be streamed on a popular Ott platform. The details of the cast, crew and genre of the web series are yet to be revealed, but it is expected to be a fresh and innovative project from the director who has given us films like Daddy Cool, Salt N’ Pepper, Naradhan, Neelavelicham, 22 Female Kottayam, Mayaanadhi and Virus.
Aashiq Abu is known for his collaboration with screenwriters Syam Pushkaran and Dileesh Nair, who have penned some of his most successful films. He is also the founder of Opm, a media production house that has produced and distributed films like Maheshinte Prathikaaram, Halal Love Story and Aarkkariyam. Abu has also done several ad...
Aashiq Abu is known for his collaboration with screenwriters Syam Pushkaran and Dileesh Nair, who have penned some of his most successful films. He is also the founder of Opm, a media production house that has produced and distributed films like Maheshinte Prathikaaram, Halal Love Story and Aarkkariyam. Abu has also done several ad...
- 9/11/2023
- by amalprasadappu
- https://thecinemanews.online/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/IMG_4649
OpinionLineage can offer a backdoor entry, and maybe a longer rope, but Malayalam cinema has made it clear that a director’s longevity rests on their craftsmanship, an urge to do something radical, exciting, bold, and original.In 1987, when Mammootty’s career had hit a roadblock, it was director Joshiy’s salvo called New Delhi that helped him regain his stardom. Mammootty rose from there like the proverbial phoenix, reinventing himself, reshuffling genres, and prioritising the actor in him. Thirty six years later, as Joshiy’s son Abhilash Joshiy - a debutant director - and Mammootty’s son and a bona fide star Dulquer Salman united on screen, the stakes weren’t exactly that high. Dulquer, with over 34 films in his kitty and a marked presence in other language films, commanding a box office initial next only to Mammootty and Mohanlal with an envious pan-Indian fan following, was just testing the waters.
- 8/31/2023
- by LakshmiP
- The News Minute
MollywoodIn recent times, many female actors like Navya Nair and Meera Jasmine who disappeared earlier, have begun floating back to films not just to play the big sister or mother, but to make their presence felt.It is somehow a comforting moment when Lalu Alex and Manju Warrier, playing father and daughter in Jo and The Boy, talk about her marriage like it is something she has to do having touched 30 years of age. When the film came out, Manju was 36, not far off her screen age. Still, the scene is comforting because it has for the longest time been the forte of men to keep playing the guy just ripe for marriage decade after decade, while women would have long left the field by 30 or would be cast all too unfairly as mothers and grandmothers of men twice their age. But Manju Warrier, a woman actor in her mid-30s,...
- 5/28/2023
- by Cris
- The News Minute
Entertainment“In pursuit of becoming a better sister, you’ve made me a better human,” actor Sai Pallavi wrote in her post wishing Pooja a happy birthday. SaiPallavi/instagramActor Sai Pallavi has shared a fun video of her sister Pooja Kannan, on the occasion of her birthday on Friday, April 21. The video, which is a compilation of photographs and video clips of Pooja, shows her having a good time with friends and family, and singing and dancing along to the song ‘Tak Bak’ from Thangamagan while out on a drive. Sharing the post, Sai Pallavi wrote, “Happy Birthday My Monkey. In pursuit of becoming a better sister, you’ve made me a better human. Your mere existence teaches me so much. Thank you chella. You’re light,love and joy personified. I love you.” Pooja’s reply said, “Oh my godddd, daiii! I love you so much. I miss you.
- 4/21/2023
- by RajeswariP
- The News Minute
ReviewTovino plays the protagonist writer with nuance and restraint, while Rima is charming as Bhargavi. The actors, however, struggle to deliver their lines from a 60-year-old script in a manner that suits modern sensibilities.There is a scene about halfway through Aashiq Abu’s Neelavelicham. The film’s unnamed writer protagonist (Tovino Thomas) is walking towards his rented bungalow, only to suddenly stop in his tracks, his eyes wide, staring spellbound at the vision in front of him. Bathed in a magical blue glow, the house, famously inhabited by a forlorn ghost, is beckoning him to come in and finish writing her story. As he enters the house in awe, transcendent blue hues enveloping him, he thanks his dear ghost, Bhargavi, for giving him this ‘neela velicham’ (blue radiance). It is at this point that Aashiq’s vision as a filmmaker, to remake A Vincent’s 1964 classic Bhargavi Nilayam, truly comes alive.
- 4/20/2023
- by LakshmiP
- The News Minute
MollywoodAashiq Abu’s 'Neelavelicham', Ashraf Hamza’s 'Sulaikha Manzil' and other anticipated films are releasing in time for Eid celebrations.Still from Sulaikha ManzilFor the Ramzan weekend, at least four Malayalam movies are releasing in theatres, including the much-awaited Neelavelicham. There could be more releases announced mid-week, as part of the festival fun. Here is the list of this week's releases announced so far. 1. Neelavelicham - One of the most awaited films of the year, Aashiq Abu's Neelavelicham is ready for release this week. The team behind the film has been giving out bits and pieces about what's in store. Starring Rima Kallingal, Roshan Mathew and Tovino Thomas, the film is based on Vaikom Muhammed Basheer's story of the same title, and his later script for the 1964 film Bhargavi Nilayam. It falls into the horror genre and is set in an earlier decade. Evergreen melodies of legendary musician Ms Baburaj,...
- 4/17/2023
- by Cris
- The News Minute
EntertainmentTovino, who is currently on an adventure trip in Zimbabwe, took to Instagram on Wednesday to share his bungee jumping experience with his followers.Tovino Thomas / InstagramMalayalam actor Tovino Thomas is mastering the art of handling a fall, so he can fly someday. Or at least that’s what he wrote as he shared a video of him exhilaratingly swinging upside down over the Zambezi river, across the border crossing point between Zimbabwe and Zambia, after taking a wild jump off the Victoria Falls Bungee bridge. Tovino, who is currently on an adventure trip in Zimbabwe, took to Instagram on Wednesday, April 12, to share his bungee jumping experience with his followers. In the video, Tovino can be seen standing alongside a jumpmaster on the edge of the bridge, ankle and body harnesses attached, before plummeting into the famed Batoka Gorge. “A fall from the largest water that falls, the Victoria falls.
- 4/13/2023
- by LakshmiP
- The News Minute
MollywoodThree songs from the 1964 film ‘Bhargavinilayam’, composed by Ms Baburaj and written by P Bhaskaran, have been reused in the upcoming ‘Neelavelicham’, directed by Aashiq Abu.Two days after receiving a legal notice, the team behind Neelavelicham, an upcoming Malayalam film, released a statement. The notice was regarding three songs used in the film, which were originally from the 1964 movie Bhargavi Nilayam. Aashiq Abu, the director and co-producer of Neelavelicham, said in the statement that the team had received the necessary rights and permission to recreate and reuse the older songs. Both Neelavelicham and Bhargavinilayam are movies based on a story written by legendary writer Vaikom Muhammed Basheer. Three of the original songs in Bhargavi Nilayam, which have been celebrated as masterpieces of the late composer Ms Baburaj, with lyrics penned by the great writer P Bhaskaran, have been reused in Neelavelicham, composed by Bijibal. These are ‘Thamasamenthe Varuvan’, ‘Anuraga...
- 4/2/2023
- by Cris
- The News Minute
MollywoodPromos and video songs from Neelavelicham have been creating ripples among those who remember the old settings in Basheer novels, and the music of Baburaj. With a telling tune in the background of a picture of Tovino Thomas, the Neelavelicham team has announced the date of the film’s release. Director Aashiq Abu's newest, based on a short story by the legendary writer Vaikom Muhammad Basheer, Neelavelicham (The Blue Radiance) is slated for worldwide release on April 21. Aashiq has also produced this film along with Rima Kallingal, his partner for the Opm Cinemas banner, as well as the female lead of the movie. Roshan Mathew also plays an important role in the film. Promos and video songs from the film have been creating ripples, with more than a small touch of nostalgia for those who remember the old settings in Basheer novels, and the music of Baburaj. Legendary musician...
- 3/21/2023
- by Cris
- The News Minute
When Bhavnani first wrote a horror story ‘Bearlike Man’ that was selected at Bifan (Korea), the largest genre festival in Asia, she found herself to be the first Indian woman director to be on the platform ever.
"We were practically non-existent in that space. Over the three decades I looked at, 9.9 per cent of directors were women. Horror comes with just 5.9 per cent of directors being women and Sci-fi – 2.8 per cent. I find this statistic offensive. Wench 2022 showcased 47 horror /sci-fi/fantasy films — 43 of them directed by women," she tells Ians.
Believing that India has not really explored horror in its truest potential or form, the filmmaker feels there is no better medium to highlight social change than this genre.
"And there are so many different ways to make them instead of the cliche knee-jerk horror that we all know of," she asserts.
Talk to her about the fact that most...
"We were practically non-existent in that space. Over the three decades I looked at, 9.9 per cent of directors were women. Horror comes with just 5.9 per cent of directors being women and Sci-fi – 2.8 per cent. I find this statistic offensive. Wench 2022 showcased 47 horror /sci-fi/fantasy films — 43 of them directed by women," she tells Ians.
Believing that India has not really explored horror in its truest potential or form, the filmmaker feels there is no better medium to highlight social change than this genre.
"And there are so many different ways to make them instead of the cliche knee-jerk horror that we all know of," she asserts.
Talk to her about the fact that most...
- 3/16/2023
- by News Bureau
- GlamSham
KollywoodThe posters lining the entrance of Vettri Theatres in Chennai’s Chrompet on New Year’s weekend were all women-led films — Trisha’s ‘Raangi’, Kovai Sarala’s ‘Sembi’, Aishwarya Rajesh’s ‘Driver Jamuna’, and Nayanthara’s ‘Connect’.Tnm StaffTwitter/ @kannandeepanThe sight of large banners, posters, and life-size cutouts being placed outside cinema halls have always brought joy to movie buffs. In addition to functioning as advertisement, it speaks to the fan-following and power that celebrities hold. In what was perhaps a first for Tamil cinema, the banners placed outside well-known cinema halls across Chennai last week featured only women actors as all the major releases of the week were women-led films. The posters lining the entrance of Vettri Theatres in Chrompet — Trisha’s Raangi, Kovai Sarala’s Sembi, Aishwarya Rajesh’s Driver Jamuna and Nayanthara-starrer Connect — were highlighted by a social media user on January 2. The first three films hit...
- 1/3/2023
- by SaradhaU
- The News Minute
Cinema 'Wonder Women' will be available for streaming on over-the-top (Ott) platform SonyLIV from November 18.Tnm StaffScreengrab/ YouTube- Sony LIVThe makers of slice-of-life film Wonder Women, directed by Anjali Menon, announced on Thursday, November 3, that it will be available for streaming on over-the-top (Ott) platform SonyLIV from November 18.The makers also unveiled the trailer of the film on Thursday. The trailer introduces pregnant women from different walks of life. They meet at the centre run by Nadiya Moidu’s character in the film, where antenatal classes are held. The 2 minutes and 16 second long video shows how women from different regions and linguistic backgrounds who met at the classes, befriend one another. The film is based on the theme of sisterhood. According to a press release issued by the streaming service, the movie narrates the story of six pregnant women, who arrive at a prenatal class with beliefs, confusion, and questions regarding pregnancy and childbirth.
- 11/3/2022
- by SaradhaU
- The News Minute
MollywoodActors Parvathy Thiruvothu and Nithya Menen have teamed up earlier for the 2014 Malayalam film 'Bangalore Days' which was helmed by filmmaker Anjali Menon.Tnm StaffInstagram/ Nithya Menen, Parvathy Thiruvothu Actors Parvathy Thiruvothu and Nithya Menen’s latest social media posts took fans by surprise. Parvathy and Nithya had shared an image of a positive pregnancy test on Instagram, along with the caption “So. . The wonder begins,” which left followers intrigued. Many celebrities from the film industry including actors Swara Bhaskar, Rima Kallingal, producer Guneeth Monga, singer Chinmayi Sripada, and stylist Eka Lakhani among others had posted comments, while others who were stunned by the announcement, questioned if they are pregnant. It was only when other actors including Padmapriya, Archana Padmini, Sayanora Philip and Amrutha Subash shared the same photo of a pregnancy test, that it finally dawned on many that the social media posts were shared to promote an upcoming...
- 10/28/2022
- by SaradhaU
- The News Minute
GenderFrom young brides, women who are fighting for their choices to certain kinds of mothers rarely seen on celluloid, Tnm takes stock of some of the most intriguing female characters who visited Malayalam cinema in the past five years.Neelima MenonMalayalam cinema is consistently breaking boundaries, engaging audiences across India with its solid content and performances, while simultaneously offering up some of the most fascinating women of our times, and their riveting stories. From young brides, women who are fighting for their choices to mothers who are rarely seen on celluloid, we take stock of some of the most intriguing female characters who visited Malayalam cinema in the last five years. Here are our picks. The woman in The Great Indian Kitchen It is a bleak irony that one of the most realistic female characters on celluloid in the past 10 years had to be created by a man. And it...
- 8/30/2022
- by LakshmiP
- The News Minute
CinemaVeteran actor and filmmaker Pratap Pothen, who worked in over a hundred films in Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu and Hindi, passed away on July 15 in Chennai. Tnm StaffPratap Pothen/ Facebook Condolences poured in from all quarters following actor Pratap Pothen’s death on Friday, July 15. While fans and members from the film fraternity mourned his loss, many took to social media to revisit his notable movies as an actor, director and writer. Pratap started his acting journey with The Madras Players, the oldest English theatre collective in Chennai. Popular Malayalam director Bharathan, who enjoyed his performance in the play Androcles and the Lion, invited him to act in his film, Aaravam (1978). Pratap acted in over a hundred films, primarily in Malayalam and Tamil. He also appeared in several Telugu and Hindi movies. We bring to you a list of the actor’s memorable performances, ranging from the romantic hero in the...
- 7/15/2022
- by SaradhaU
- The News Minute
PatriarchyWhile you can shrug off the ignorance of a senior actor like Mallika Sukumaran, it’s disheartening to watch the entitlement of a young actor like Mamta Mohandas. Then there are the likes of actors like Dhyan Sreenivasan.Neelima MenonWhether it is the trial in the horrific sexual assault case of a female actor in a moving car or the rape accusations of an upcoming actor against producer-actor Vijay Babu, Kerala is witnessing a lot of dialogue around #MeToo and sexual harassment. The #MeToo movement first gained attention in Malayalam cinema when the female actor registered a complaint after being assaulted in the car, in a plot allegedly masterminded by actor Dileep. The last five years have seen a few changes in the industry, especially after the formation of the Women in Cinema Collective (Wcc) and the constant conversations facilitated by feminists and progressives on social media. But the road ahead is still rocky.
- 5/31/2022
- by Vidya
- The News Minute
Deaf Crocodile Films and Gratitude Films have acquired Indian films “Lalanna’s Song” and “Dhuin” for North American distribution. The deals were completed during the Cannes Market.
“Dhuin” is one of six Indian titles selected by India’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting for a market screening. Previous Deaf Crocodile and Gratitude acquisition “Boomba Ride,” by Biswajeet Bora, is also screening at the market, where India is this year the country of honor.
Directed by Megha Ramaswamy (“Bunny”), and produced by Newton Cinema, Malayalam and Hindi-language film “Lalanna’s Song” follows two young women (top Malayalam cinema stars Rima Kallingal and Parvathy Thiruvothu) on what seems to be a routine day dealing with prejudice and sexism. Their world starts to break down into David Lynch-like shards, triggered by their encounter with a possibly supernatural young girl, Lalanna (emerging actor Nakshatra Indrajith), whose song may bring death with it.
Ramaswamy said: “As a filmmaker,...
“Dhuin” is one of six Indian titles selected by India’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting for a market screening. Previous Deaf Crocodile and Gratitude acquisition “Boomba Ride,” by Biswajeet Bora, is also screening at the market, where India is this year the country of honor.
Directed by Megha Ramaswamy (“Bunny”), and produced by Newton Cinema, Malayalam and Hindi-language film “Lalanna’s Song” follows two young women (top Malayalam cinema stars Rima Kallingal and Parvathy Thiruvothu) on what seems to be a routine day dealing with prejudice and sexism. Their world starts to break down into David Lynch-like shards, triggered by their encounter with a possibly supernatural young girl, Lalanna (emerging actor Nakshatra Indrajith), whose song may bring death with it.
Ramaswamy said: “As a filmmaker,...
- 5/25/2022
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Mollywood The Kerala High Court had directed Malayalam film production houses to form an Internal Committee (Ic) as mandated by the Posh Act, earlier last month.Tnm StaffInstagram/ Neelavelicham The shooting of Aashiq Abu’s next project Neelavelicham, which is based on literary giant Vaikom Muhammad Basheer’s short story of the same name, commenced in Kannur on April 26. The movie features actors Tovino Thomas, Rima Kallingal, Roshan Mathew and Shine Tom Chacko in the lead roles. The team shared the announcement with fans through the film’s official social media handle. Along with the announcement, details about the Internal Committee (Ic) to report incidents of sexual abuse at the workspace, were also shared by the makers. Costume designer Sameera Saneesh is the presiding officer of the Ic formed by team Neelavelicham, while actor Devaki Bhaagi, Gayathri Babu, and Hrishikesh Bhaskaran are members of the committee. Maya Krishnan is also...
- 4/28/2022
- by SaradhaU
- The News Minute
OpinionAt an event in the Regional Iffk in Kochi, Rima Kallingal was speaking about the need for Ic in Malayalam cinema and sexual harassment. However, people commenting on the video seemed to be more concerned with what she wore.CrisInstagram / Rima KallingalIn clear, measured words, Rima Kallingal explains why film sets in Malayalam cinema need an Internal Committee (Ic), as mandated by law, to deal with sexual harassment complaints. She has been at the forefront in the fight for rights of women in the industry for the past several years, voicing thoughts and opinions few have dared to. She is also one of the founding members of the Women in Cinema Collective (Wcc) formed in the aftermath of the sexual assault on her friend and fellow actor in 2017. So, when she speaks about the need for awareness around sexual harassment, you know it comes from the right place. Unfortunately it...
- 4/6/2022
- by Cris
- The News Minute
Controversy While apologising for all that happened amid the press meet with Vinayakan, Navya asked why the men there were spared. Tnm StaffPC/InstaA day after actor Vinayakan apologised for his insensitive comment to a female journalist during a press meet in Kochi, actor Navya Nair was asked by a group of journalists why she did not respond to Vinayakan. As the line of questioning persisted, Navya said that if her apology would settle the issue once and for all, she would apologise. She pointed out that a woman like her was being questioned and crucified for comments made by a man. Navya was first asked why she did not respond to Vinayakan, to which she responded that she was unsure how to answer even this question. The actor was then asked why Vinayakan did not take back his words. "That's a question to ask him," she said, "What he (Vinayakan) said was absolutely wrong.
- 3/27/2022
- by Saritha
- The News Minute
Sexual HarassmentThe Wcc filed a writ petition in the Kerala High Court in October 2018, to urge the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists or Amma to form an Ic.Tnm StaffWCC file image Three and a half years after the Women in Cinema Collective (Wcc) -- a body of women workers in Malayalam cinema -- moved the court for an Internal Committee (Ic) in the film actors' organisation Amma, the latter has announced in a circular of forming one. The circular, dated March 10, says that an Internal Complaints Committee, brought into the constitution of the association, has been formed. Actor Shwetha Menon will be the presiding officer while actors Rachana Narayanankutty, Kukku Parameswaran and Maala Parvathi will be the other members. A lawyer will also be appointed in the next meeting on March 19, the circular says. The Wcc filed filed two writ petitions in the Kerala High Court in October 2018, which...
- 3/14/2022
- by Cris
- The News Minute
MollywoodA political thriller that revolves around Malayalam broadcast journalism, ‘Naradan’ is helmed by filmmaker Aashiq Abu.IANSScreengrab/ YouTubeDirector Aashiq Abu’s eagerly awaited Malayalam film Naradan featuring Tovino Thomas and Anna Ben in the lead will now hit screens worldwide on March 3. The director took to Instagram to make the announcement. A political thriller that revolves around Malayalam broadcast journalism, the film has music by Sekhar Menon and cinematography by Jaffer Zadique. Originally scheduled to be released in April 2021, the film was postponed due to the second Covid-19 wave. The team then decided to release the film this year on January 27. However, that too did not happen due to the surge in Covid-19 infections and complications caused by the Omicron variant. Now the makers have announced that the film will release on March 3. Aashiq Abu and Tovino have earlier teamed up for films like Mayaanadhi and Virus, which received positive responses from audiences.
- 2/18/2022
- by SaradhaU
- The News Minute
Malayalam actress Rima Kallingal has joined hands with a number of entities including the Kerala Women’s League and the Kerala Football Association to ensure that the Kerala Women’s Football League gets all the attention it deserves. The actress, in a post on social media, said, “Now is the time for change. We are the torch-bearers […]...
- 12/11/2021
- by Glamsham Bureau
- GlamSham
CinemaA slew of Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam and Kannada films are lined up for theatrical release, while a couple will premiere on Ott platforms. Tnm StaffTwitter/ Mythri Movie Makers The production of several films had to be halted, and many movies had to forego a theatrical release in view of the first and second wave of the coronavirus pandemic. However, filmmakers and production houses have now been announcing dates for the theatrical release of much-awaited films – a couple will have a digital premiere on Over-the-top (Ott) platforms. The movies are lined up for release to mark the occasion of Christmas and New Year. We have put together a list of Telugu, Tamil, Kannada and Malayalam films releasing in cinema theatres and Ott platforms this December. Telugu films Skylab: Starring actors Nithya Menen, Satya Dev and Rahul Ramakrishna in the lead, comedy-drama Skylab is set in 1979 Telangana. In the village of Bandalingampalli,...
- 12/3/2021
- by SaradhaU
- The News Minute
ReviewMany Tamil films have made references to the Pollachi sexual assault case, and the latest is 'Chithirai Sevvanam', starring Samuthirakani, Pooja Kannan and Rima Kallingal. Sowmya RajendranIn 2019, Tamil Nadu was shaken by a horrific video that showed a young woman being beaten and sexually assaulted even as she begged for mercy. The video was from Pollachi, and a subsequent investigation revealed that scores of young girls and women had been similarly assaulted and blackmailed by a group of men. The case was transferred to the Cbi a month later and is currently in court. Quite a few Tamil films have made references to the case, considering the widespread anger that it drew and Chithirai Sevvanam, directed by Silva and written by Al Vijay, joins the list. The film revolves around Muthupandi (Samuthirakani) and his bright daughter Aishwarya (Pooja Kannan), an aspiring doctor. Aishwarya goes missing one day and the police...
- 12/3/2021
- by Sowmya
- The News Minute
KollywoodPooja is Sai Pallavi's sister and is playing a medical student in the film while Rima plays a cop.Tnm StaffFight choreographer-turned-director 'Stunt' Silva's film Chithirai Sevvaanam will release on Ott platform on December 3. Produced by director Al Vijay, the film features Pooja Kannan, Samuthirakani and Rima Kallingal. One of the reasons why fans have been eagerly waiting for this film is because Pooja, who plays one of the leads, is the younger sister of popular actor Sai Pallavi. Many feel that the sisters have striking similarities and quite a number of people are eager to see if Pooja is as good a dancer as Sai Pallavi. Meanwhile, Rima Kallingal, who plays a pivotal character in the film, had recently said that essaying the role of a police officer was “quite a ride.” “Asha Nayyar - The first time playing a Police officer was quite a ride,” she said,...
- 12/1/2021
- by Sanyukta
- The News Minute
TollywoodBe it a passion for films or a need to make good movies, many women actors in the south Indian film industries are exploring the production side of filmmaking.Rajeswari ParasaActor Nithya Menen recently turned producer with her upcoming sci-fi movie Skylab. At the event to launch the trailer, she confessed that the urge to ‘protect’ the film made her turn to production. For Niharika Konidela, niece of veteran Telugu actor Chiranjeevi, a love for cinema pushed her towards becoming a producer. In an interview, she had said that it didn’t matter to her whether she was acting or producing as long as she was a part of the film industry. Be it a passion for films or a need to make good movies, many women actors in the south Indian film industries are exploring the production side of filmmaking. And this is not a new phenomenon. Not wanting to limit themselves,...
- 11/24/2021
- by Rajeswari
- The News Minute
MollywoodHelmed by ‘Thamasha’ fame Ashraf Hamza, the comedy drama co-stars Chinnu Chandni and is written by Chemban Vinod Jose, who is also on board as a co-producer.Tnm StaffFacebook/ Aashiq AbuUpcoming Malayalam film Bheemante Vazhi is set to hit the big screens on December 3. The film stars actors Kunchacko Boban and Chinnu Chandni in the lead roles. Helmed by filmmaker Ashraf Hamza, the comedy drama film also stars actors Chemban Vinod Jose, Jinu Joseph and Nirmal Palazhi in supporting roles. The movie is also produced by Chemban Vinod Jose under the banner of Chembosky Motion Pictures along with Rima Kallingal and Aashiq Abu under the banner of Opm Cinemas. Sharing the announcement with fans, producer Aashiq Abu wrote on Facebook: “Bheemante Vazhi on December 3rd.” The trailer of Bheemante Vazhi was unveiled on November 12. Filmmaker Ashraf Hamza made his directorial debut with the critically acclaimed film Thamasha. The film...
- 11/23/2021
- by SaradhaU
- The News Minute
MollywoodFrom conceptualization to filming the entire movie inside a car, actor Rima Kallingal and director Don Palathara take us through the making of ‘Santhoshathinte Onnam Rahasyam’. Saradha UScreengrab/ YouTubeDo you sometimes feel that the fights between on-screen couples often sound unrealistic or perhaps seem too structured? With a number of soundtracks, characters and subplots, viewers only witness the emotional outburst of the lead characters when it is at its peak, but we seldom remember how the fight broke out, or how it escalated. In the world of Santhoshathinte Onnam Rahasyam, the audience travels with entertainment reporter Maria (played by Rima Kallingal) and small-time actor Jithin (played by Jitin Puthenchery), who are on their way in a car to find out if Maria is pregnant. With one argument leading to the other, much like the couple, viewers too ponder whether the couple is equipped to deal with the unplanned pregnancy and...
- 7/27/2021
- by SaradhaU
- The News Minute
MollywoodStarring actors Rima Kallingal and Jithin Puthenchery in the lead, the single-shot movie is currently streaming on multiple Over-the-Top (Ott) platforms. Tnm StaffThe critically acclaimed Malayalam movie Santhoshathinte Onnam Rahasyam starring Rima Kallingal and Jithin Puthenchery, is streaming on Over-the-Top (Ott) platforms Neestream, Saina Play, Cavestream, Roots Video and Mainstream TV from July 21. Sharing the news with fans, Rima Kallingal wrote: “The Secret is coming to you from July 21st. The thing about a ‘joyful mystery’ if you ask me? -It stays close to your heart!” Helmed by Don Palathara and bankrolled by Shijo K George, Santhoshathinte Onnam Rahasyam (Joyful Mystery) is a single shot 85-minute movie set against the backdrop of the Covid-19 pandemic.The plot revolves around the lives of live-in couple Maria and Jithin and the entire movie takes place during the car journey they take together. The film received acclaim as one of the most experimental Mollywood films.
- 7/23/2021
- by SaradhaU
- The News Minute
Movie Release Helmed by Don Palathara and also starring Jithin Puthenchery in the lead, the movie has been shot completely inside a car.Tnm StaffThe Malayalam movie Santhoshathinte Onnam Rahasyam starring Rima Kallingal and Jithin Puthenchery will hit theatres in the United States on Friday, July 9. Directed by Don Palathara, Neeraja Rajendran also plays an important role in the movie. Produced by Shijo K George, Santhoshathinte Onnam Rahasyam (Joyful Mystery) is a single shot 85-minute movie set in the backdrop of the Covid-19 situation. Revolving around the story of live-in couple Maria and Jithin, the entire movie is presented through a car journey that the couple take together. The movie had its premiere at the International Film Festival of Kerala (Iffk) held in February and was shown at the Moscow International Film Festival (Miff) held in April. Having won critical acclaim at the Iffk, at Miff the movie was selected under the main competition category.
- 7/9/2021
- by Saritha
- The News Minute
Social mediaThe actor’s post was an attempt to appreciate a woman police officer who struggled through life.Tnm StaffIn his attempt to appreciate a woman police officer who struggled through life, Malayalam actor Unni Mukundan wrote, "It is not through big pottu (Malayalam for bindi) but through big dreams that women empowerment is possible. The real fighter. Inspiration for all." His post on Facebook got immediately picked up, discussed, and criticised. Women began posting pictures of themselves wearing big bindis, taking offence at his statement. Wearing big bindis have often been associated with feminists in Kerala and many have taken Unni Mukundan's post to mean that he was taking a dig at feminists with that reference. Chintha Tk comments under his post, "Can anyone tell him that the first step of women empowerment is the freedom a woman has to decide whether she wants a pottu or not. To praise women too,...
- 6/28/2021
- by Cris
- The News Minute
MollywoodSeveral actors like Kunchacko Boban, Rima Kallingal and Tovino Thomas posted personal pictures and messages on Father’s Day.Tnm StaffThe photo paints a cosy family picture with two people in it. The older is a grandpa tying the hair of his son’s daughter seated in front of him. It could be just a charming picture from any home. Only this grandpa is Malayalam cinema’s celebrated superstar Mammootty. His son and actor Dulquer Salmaan posted the picture on his Instagram page to wish him on Father’s Day. Among Dulquer’s many hashtags are the words ‘no caption needed’, ‘picture speaks a thousand words’ and ‘my biggest joy’. Mammootty is seen in comfortable home clothes, a shirt and mundu. He has his long hair tied into a small ponytail at the back. And from the looks of it, he is attempting to give his granddaughter the same hairdo.
- 6/20/2021
- by Cris
- The News Minute
CinemaDirector Anjali Menon stated that late poet Onv means much to Malayalees and it was distressing that the Onv Academy has chosen an alleged perpetrator for the honour.Tnm StaffFacebookTamil poet and lyricist Vairamuthu was conferred with the fifth Onv literary award instituted by the Onv Cultural Academy in Kerala on Wednesday. However, many voices from the Malayalam film industry, who are members of the Women in Cinema Collective have questioned the jury’s decision to confer the award on the poet who has faced a slew of allegations of sexual harassment from many women, including singer Chinmayi. Actor Parvathy took to social media to criticize the jury and called the choice of recipient a huge disrespect to late poet Onv Kurup. "Onv Sir is our pride. His contribution as a poet and lyricist is incomparable. How it has nourished our culture. Our hearts and minds have benefited through his body of work.
- 5/27/2021
- by SaradhaU
- The News Minute
Social mediaA number of posts with the hashtag 'SaveLakshadweep' have popped up on social media against the changes brought by new Administrator Praful Patel.Tnm StaffCK Vineeth, Geetu Mohandas, PrithvirajAmid the rising anger against the new administrational changes in Lakshadweep, Malayalam actor and filmmaker Prithviraj Sukumaran has posted his views with regards to the islands and the people there. Narrating his experiences of visiting the islands as a child and later for his films, Prithviraj writes about the wonderful people he has met in Lakshadweep and how they are now unhappy with the decisions of the new administration. Praful Patel took charge as Administrator in December 2020 and has since introduced a slew of reforms, such as a change in Covid-19 protocol (Lakshadweep had earlier recorded no cases at all for a long time), banning of non-vegetarian food in schools, and widening of roads where vehicles are few, to name some.
- 5/24/2021
- by Cris
- The News Minute
Don Palathara is a contemporary arthouse director arising from the South Indian state of Kerala, who creates Malayalam-language films. Ever since the release of his debut “Shavam” (2015), he has obtained substantial critical praise. His latest, “Joyful Mystery”, was exhibited at multiple film festivals, including the most recent edition of the Moscow International Film Festival.
In his latest, the original title of which is “Santhoshanthinte Onnam Rahasyam”, the emphasis is on a journey via car taken by two characters. The two are in a relationship and the existing position of the connection cannot be termed as stable. The one steering the vehicle is Jithin, an aspiring actor who barely receives bit-part roles in the movie industry. Seated next to him is Maria, a reporter who primarily writes for a tabloid publication. The latter is apparently pregnant, hence they travel to a medical facility to recover test reports. What transpires next is...
In his latest, the original title of which is “Santhoshanthinte Onnam Rahasyam”, the emphasis is on a journey via car taken by two characters. The two are in a relationship and the existing position of the connection cannot be termed as stable. The one steering the vehicle is Jithin, an aspiring actor who barely receives bit-part roles in the movie industry. Seated next to him is Maria, a reporter who primarily writes for a tabloid publication. The latter is apparently pregnant, hence they travel to a medical facility to recover test reports. What transpires next is...
- 5/20/2021
- by Raktim Nandi
- AsianMoviePulse
MollywoodIt is the only Indian film to feature under the main competition category at the Miff, along with 13 other international films. Tnm StaffScreengrabAfter winning praises from fans and garnering critical acclaim, Malayalam film Santhoshathinte Onnam Rahasyam has been selected under the main competition category of Moscow International Film Festival (Miff). It is the only Indian film out of the 14 films that are contesting under the category. Helmed by director Don Palathara, the movie stars actors Rima Kallingal and Jithin Puthenchery in the lead roles. Santhoshinte Onnam Rahasyam was lauded as one of the most experimental films in the history of Malayalam cinema, since the movie is completely shot inside a car, with the camera fixed on the dashboard. It premiered at the International Film Festival of Kerala on February 21. The film revolves around its two lead characters; Maria, an entertainment reporter and her boyfriend Jitin, a small-time actor who does...
- 4/24/2021
- by SaradhaU
- The News Minute
MollywoodIn the lockdown, several wonderful films were made, cleverly camouflaging the limitations of shooting with restrictions by writing stories that justified it.CrisThe months ahead had looked gloomy for the Malayalam film industry when a government order in March 2020 asked all production work – shooting, screening, distribution included – to be stopped immediately. Covid-19 had just broken out all over the country. By June, the government slowly began lifting restrictions. At first, they allowed television series to resume work with minimal crew and following Covid-19 protocols. Movies were next on the list. But producers got together and decided to take it slow until the finished films – more than 60 of them – could release first. C U Soon – an experimental film by Mahesh Narayanan and Fahadh Faasil – was the first to break away. There was a bit of a row then but Mahesh and Fahadh said it was an experimental work and was not meant for theatres.
- 4/9/2021
- by Neethu
- The News Minute
Film CommentaryDon Palathara's 85-minute film is about a woman who suspects she's pregnant and the argument she has with her boyfriend on their way to the doctor's. Sowmya RajendranScreengrab*Spoilers ahead In Sandeep Reddy Vanga's Telugu film Arjun Reddy, later remade in Tamil and Hindi, the hero, presented to us as the embodiment of masculinity, cannot comprehend why anyone would 'plan' a pregnancy. When his brother tells him about planning for a baby in two years, Arjun Reddy scoffs at him and says, "Is this something you should plan? It should happen in the flow." At the end of the film, Arjun finds that his former girlfriend Preethi is pregnant with their unplanned baby, and the couple reunite in their toxic relationship about which reams have been written already. But this article isn't about Arjun Reddy. It's about what happens when a "pregnancy happens in the flow" and the...
- 2/24/2021
- by Sowmya
- The News Minute
Movie ReviewDirector Don Palathara has set the entire film inside a car, with the focus on its two main characters, played by Rima Kallingal and Jithin Puthenchery.CrisThe only few minutes Maria smiles inside the car is when she gets a phone call and does an interview of a filmmaker. An entertainment reporter, Maria’s face softens, her tone turns polite, as she answers the call, as if she has just met the director in person. One wishes she gets more calls in that car ride, one long enough to fill the entire stretch of a film, a neatly crafted one directed by Don Palathara. Santhoshathinte Onnam Rahasyam or Joyful Mystery had its premiere at the International Film Festival of Kerala (Iffk) in Thiruvananthapuram on Sunday. Don has set the entire film inside a car to remove the risks of shooting during a pandemic. His script, filled with dialogues exchanged between a couple,...
- 2/15/2021
- by Cris
- The News Minute
This time, we have a "plot", and characters who talk a lot. But the aesthetic is as rigorous as in the director's earlier work. The camera, for instance, is "locked in" throughout.
The post Iff Kerala 2021: Don Palathara’s Fascinating Santhoshathinte Onnam Rahasyam, With Rima Kallingal And Jitin Puthenchery, Is Both Familiar And New appeared first on Film Companion.
The post Iff Kerala 2021: Don Palathara’s Fascinating Santhoshathinte Onnam Rahasyam, With Rima Kallingal And Jitin Puthenchery, Is Both Familiar And New appeared first on Film Companion.
- 2/13/2021
- by Baradwaj Rangan
- Film Companion
MollywoodThe actor and dancer opened the dance studio in Kochi in 2014.Digital NativeThe coronavirus has caused several businesses to fold down. Malayalam actor and dancer Rima Kallingal who runs a dance studio called Mamangam in Kochi has decided to close it down due to the pandemic and resultant lockdown. The actor took to social media to announce the decision. Expressing gratitude to those associated with Mamangam, she wrote, “I have decided to close down the Mamangam studios and the dance classes wing after the corona fiasco hitting us. It was a labour of love and there are so many memories associated with this place. The high energy dance classes, dance rehearsals, film screenings, workshops, flood relief collection camps, debates and discussions, shootings, everything will always echo in all our hearts.” Rima set up Mamangam in 2014. The dance studio and performance space have come up with several productions such as 'Yamuna'.
- 2/5/2021
- by Cris
- The News Minute
MollywoodThe films include 'Marakkar Arabikadalinte Simham', 'Jallikattu', 'Virus', 'Kumbalangi Nights', 'Moothon', 'Sameer', 'Vasanthi', and 'Ishq' among others. Digital NativeThis is perhaps the golden era for the Malayalam film industry with 17 films entering the final screening process for the 67th National Film Awards in various categories. Grapevine has it that 17 Malayalam films including Marakkar Arabikadalinte Simham, Jallikattu, Virus, Kumbalangi Nights, Moothon, Sameer, Vasanthi, and Ishq, have been shortlisted for the final rounds. Marakkar Arabikadalinte Simham, which was censored in 2019, has Mohanlal playing the lead role with Priyadarshan directing it. It is a star-studded film that also has Suniel Shetty, Arjun Sarja, Siddique, Prabhu Deva, Sudeep, Prabhu, Madhu, Manju Warrier, Paresh Rawal, Keerthy Suresh, Kalyani Priyadarshan, Pranav Mohanlal, Suhasini Maniratnam, Nedumudi Venu, Ashok Selvan, and others in pivotal roles. The film’s technical crew includes cinematographer Tirru and editor Ms Ayyappan Nair. Ronnie Raphael...
- 1/30/2021
- by Luke
- The News Minute
CinemaShraddha applied the tiring questions women actors are asked when they announce their marriage plans to Varun Dhawan — and she's on point.Tnm StaffActor Shraddha Srinath, who was recently seen in the Tamil film Maara, is known for speaking her mind. On Instagram, Shraddha's recent tongue-in-cheek posts, published as stories, on Bollywood actor Varun Dhawan getting married to his girlfriend Natasha Dalal, caught the attention of fans. And though Shraddha was joking, she sure had a valid point to make. In her first post, Shraddha mimicked the common reaction that women actors get when they announce their marriage plans. Only, she was speaking about Varun Dhawan and it obviously sounded absurd when applied to a male actor since they're not stereotyped like their female counterparts: “Another good actor bites the dust. Sad that we will not see him on screen again. Obviously his wife and in laws will not be...
- 1/27/2021
- by Sowmya
- The News Minute
MollywoodTheatres in Kerala are likely to reopen soon after a long break due to the outbreak of the pandemic.Tnm StaffOn Monday, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced a list of relaxations for movie theatres that had remained shut for several months due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Many prominent Malayalam actors including Mohanlal, Manju Warrier and Mammootty have expressed that they welcome the move, which is expected to be a boost for the theatres that are likely to reopen soon. The new relaxations include exemption of entertainment tax from January to March 2021, reduction in electricity fixed charge for the past 10 months by 50% and that if not paid already, theatres can pay land tax until March 2020 in instalments. The government has also extended the time limit to renew licenses related with building fitness, health, fire and rescue, films division, electrical inspectorate and local bodies until March 31, 2021. Welcoming the move, actor Mohanlal...
- 1/11/2021
- by Neethu
- The News Minute
MOLLYWOODThe regional office of the Cbfc had earlier denied certification for ‘Varthamanam’, with a board member saying it is “surely antinational”. Digital NativeDigital NativeLast week, the Malayalam film Varthamanam was denied censor certification by the regional office of the Censor Board of Film Certification (Cbfc), which became a topic of discussion. Following this, the filmmakers have now received a go-ahead from the Delhi Central Censor Board revising committee. Denying clearance for the film earlier, Cbfc member Adv Sandeep Kumar tweeted: “As a censor board member, I saw the film Varthamanam. The subject is the Dalit, Muslim oppression in the Jnu protest. I opposed it because the film's writer and producer is Aryadan Shoukath. The film's premise was surely anti-national.” Sensing that the tweet could rake up a controversy, he removed the tweet, but not before it caught the attention of netizens and other filmmakers. In Varthamanam, directed by Siddhartha Siva,...
- 1/7/2021
- by AditiKumar
- The News Minute
MollywoodChemban Vinod has scripted the film, while ‘Thamasha’ fame Ashraf Hamza is directing it.Digital NativeThe Malayalam film with Kunchacko Boban in the lead, scripted by actor Chemban Vinod, has been titled Bheemante Vazhi. The film is directed by Ashraf Hamza, who made the critically acclaimed film Thamasha. Chemban Vinod also plays an important role in the film and is co-producing it as well. Besides Kunchacko Boban and Chemban Vinod, the film also has Aashiq Abu and Rima Kallingal roped in for crucial roles. While Girish Gangadharan has been roped in as the cinematographer, Vishnu Vijayan is the music director. The project started rolling recently in Kuttipuram. Chinnu Chandni has been roped in to play the female lead in this entertainer. She was also the female lead in Thamasha, acting opposite Vinay Forrt. Chemban Vinod has earlier written the script of Angamaly Diaries, directed by Lijo Jose Pellissery, which turned out to be hugely popular.
- 12/29/2020
- by Cris
- The News Minute
MOLLYWOODThe film is scripted by Chemban Vinod, who is also playing the lead role and co-producing the venture. Digital NativeDigital NativeReports have recently emerged that Mollywood actor Kunchacko Boban is teaming up with director Ashraf Hamza of Thamasha fame for a new film. Interestingly, this film is scripted by Chemban Vinod, who is also playing the lead role and co-producing it. Besides Kunchacko Boban and Chemban Vinod, the film also has Aashiq Abu and Rima Kallingal in crucial roles. Girish Gangadharan has been roped in as the cinematographer. The project started rolling recently in Kuttipuram amidst high expectations. While Kunchacko Boban has joined the sets of this new film, he has several other films lined up in different stages of production. Nayattu, starring Kunchacko Boban and directed by Martin Prakkat, has a strong technical crew with Shahi Kabir penning the script, Shyju Khalid working the camera and Mahesh Narayanan doing the edits.
- 12/28/2020
- by AditiKumar
- The News Minute
MollywoodThe gorgeous actor-entrepreneur is seen sporting a white crochet top paired with blue denim pants that looks totally cool.Digital NativePoornima Indrajith, a well-known actor and wife of actor Indrajith Sukumaran took the internet by storm with a cool selfie. She had shared a selfie on her Instagram page and it went viral. The gorgeous actor-entrepreneur is seen sporting a white crochet top paired with blue denim pants that looks totally cool. While the pic has been receiving a lot of comments, Poornima’s elder daughter Prarthana went on to write, “Ive Such A Hot Mama What Is This (sic).” And that is not all! The youngster also revealed that her mom is wearing her pants! She went on to revealed, “Also those are my jeans.” To this, the pretty mom replied, “@prarthanaindrajith Like You And it’s mine now Ily.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by...
- 12/12/2020
- by Sreedevi
- The News Minute
Kerala Local Body Polls 2020The second phase of the elections was held on Thursday in Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad and Wayanad districts.Tnm StaffThe second phase of the local body polls in Kerala, held on Thursday, saw several Mollywood celebrities going out to cast their votes. Actors Rima Kallingal, Tovino Thomas, Manju Warrier, Innocent and filmmaker Aashiq Abu, among others, took part in the second phase of the elections that were held in Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad and Wayanad districts. Casting their votes in Kochi, celebrity couple Rima Kallingal and Aashiq Abu expressed that they wish to see the continuing rule of the Left Democratic Front in the state. “Despite going through many hardships in these times, it was an administration which we could be proud of. I wish that it may continue,” Rima Kallingal told Manorama News after casting her vote. Aashiq Abu also stated that his vote was...
- 12/10/2020
- by Neethu
- The News Minute
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