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Pink Villa
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
Nikita Roy Review: Sonakshi Sinha's battle against superstition in this psycho-thriller falls flat, fades fast
Name: Nikita Roy Director: Kush Sinha Cast: Sonakshi Sinha, Paresh Rawal, Suhail Nayyar Writers: Belal Khalique, Pavan Kirpalani, Neel Mohanty Rating: 2/5 Plot Set against the backdrop of London, Nikita Roy (Sonakshi Sinha) is on a mission to solve the murder of her brother, Sanal Roy (Arjun Rampal). The siblings are part of a community committed to debunking superstitious beliefs and dismantling the lucrative businesses that thrive on them. Their investigation directs them straight to the powerful godman Amar Dev (Paresh Rawal). Unfortunately, they're completely on their own in this battle. The story hinges on whether Nikita can peel off the godman's carefully constructed mask. What Works What works for Nikita Roy is that it doesn't fall into the preachy or melodramatic tone. A few eerie scenes, enhanced by a chilling background score, manage to deliver goosebumps. The editing is crisp, and the real drama kicks in post-interval, so hang tight through the first half's slow build-up. What Doesn't The film begins like a whodunnit, then tries to convince you it's a horror, only to pivot into thriller territory - yes, it's as confusing as it sounds. There are definite echoes of Saurabh Shukla 's storyline from PK. Setting the supernatural drama in London doesn't quite land either. The Indian audience is more likely to associate superstition with rustic villages tucked away in coastal or desert regions. With masterpieces like Bramayugam and Tumbbad raising the bar for thrillers, Nikita Roy feels out of place. If the comparisons seem off, it's because the storyline is, too. Performances Given the right push, Sonakshi Sinha can really bring her A-game, she's proven that in Lootera and Dahaad. Here, as Nikita Roy, she's okay-ish. I kept waiting for that raw, unfiltered breakdown, some moment of explosive grief or rage, but it was all too muted for the situation. Suhail Nayyar as Jolly, a social media star and hopelessly in love with Nikita is... perplexing. It's unclear whether his irritating British accent was intentional, but it annoys after a point. I lost count of how many times he said "alright" in that exaggerated tone. Paresh Rawal is a legendary actor, an undeniable asset to Indian cinema, but Nikita Roy won't be the film remembered for showcasing his talent. A crossover conversation between Amar Dev and Kaanji Bhai from Oh My God in some alternate universe would be far more entertaining and would definitely burn through more popcorn. Arjun Rampal's special appearance as Sanal Roy is visually pleasing (if nothing else), and a shoutout to Kalliroi Tziafeta (Freya), who proves her mettle with just a few minutes of screen time. Final Verdict With a tighter, more cohesive script, Nikita Roy could've done justice to Kush Sinha's direction. Watch it only if you're a die-hard Sonakshi Sinha fan. Otherwise, a one-time watch would do you no harm.
Pink Villa
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
Sonakshi Sinha's brother Kussh breaks silence on family rift rumors after her marriage: 'If someone wants...'
Actress Sonakshi Sinha tied the knot with her beau Zaheer Iqbal last year. With reports of Sonakshi's brothers, Kussh Sinha and Luv Sinha, not being present during her wedding, many speculated that there was a rift in the Sinha family at the time. A year later, Kussh has finally broken his silence about the rumors and admitted that he attended the wedding. Kussh Sinha talks about rift rumors in family after Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal's marriage In a new interview with Zoom, Kussh Sinha confirmed that he was present at his sister, Sonakshi Sinha 's, wedding with Zaheer Iqbal last year. Kussh also opened up about rift rumors, saying that they don't affect him. Kussh further addressed the viral speculation that he and his brother, Luv, didn't attend the wedding. He shared that there was some "random chatter" about the rift. "If someone wants to bring this up, it's their agenda. I have nothing to do with it," he added. Talking about Luv Sinha's absence from Sonakshi Sinha's wedding, Kussh Sinha shared that everyone is allowed to have their "individual stunts". Kussh Sinha on supporting Sonakshi Sinha's decisions Kussh Sinha then spoke about how he respects his sister, Sonakshi Sinha's, decisions. Kussh shared that she is an adult and allowed to make her own choices. He also revealed his equation with brother-in-law Zaheer Iqbal by saying that it is all okay. All about Sonakshi Sinha's marriage and her upcoming movie Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal dated for seven years before they decided to get married. They registered their marriage in a civil ceremony on June 23, 2024. The couple later had a star-studded wedding reception in Mumbai. Sonakshi and Zaheer collaborated in the 2022 film Double XL, which also starred actress Huma Qureshi. Sonakshi is the daughter of veteran actor Shatrughan Sinha and actress Poonam Sinha. On the work front, Sonakshi Sinha is now gearing up for her upcoming film, Nikita Roy, which is set for release on July 18, 2025. Interestingly, it is her brother Kussh Sinha's directorial debut. She is best known for movies such as Dabangg, Rowdy Rathore, Lootera, Son of Sardaar, R... Rajkumar, and more.
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Business Standard
07-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Business Standard
Farhan Akhtar's Don 3 to feature SRK, Ranveer, Priyanka Chopra, and Kiara
Don 3, one of the most highly anticipated Bollywood projects, has faced several delays over the years due to various reasons. However, fresh reports suggest that the wait may soon be over, as Farhan Akhtar is now set to begin filming the much-awaited action thriller by January 2026. In a surprising update, Kiara Advani—who was earlier rumoured to opt out due to pregnancy—is now reportedly on board. Even more excitingly, Shah Rukh Khan may make a return in the film, a development that's already generating major buzz online. According to reports, SRK is likely to make a special cameo appearance with Ranveer Singh, who will play the title character. Adding to the excitement, Priyanka Chopra is set to reunite with SRK after 15 years, making this development even more significant for fans. Interestingly, actor Vikrant Massey will also feature in the movie. Although the story is still being kept under wraps, sources have it that his little appearance will be crucial to the plot. It will be one of the largest celebrity collaborations in Bollywood if the sources going around the internet are accurate. Don 3: Why the delay? Bollywood Hungama shared a source close to the development, saying, 'Yes, there's been a delay — but it couldn't be helped. Ranveer Singh, who replaced Shah Rukh Khan in the franchise, had to deal with a wave of online trolling for 'daring' to step into SRK's shoes. Farhan and Ranveer mutually decided to lie low and let the heat die down. Ranveer also needed time to physically and mentally prepare for the role, which requires rigorous martial arts training." 'After that, Kiara Advani — who was signed on to replace Priyanka Chopra as the female lead — got pregnant. Farhan had to halt the film's progress due to her changed circumstances. To add to that, Farhan got deeply immersed in his own acting schedule for the intense war film 120 Bahadur, where he plays Major Shaitan Singh. That film is scheduled to release on November 21, 2025," the source added. Also, India Today quoted one more source saying, "Not much is known about the part. However, Farhan Akhtar reportedly reached out to SRK and narrated the character and the story around him. While the superstar is busy with King at the moment, given their close association, he's agreed to do it." Meanwhile, it has also been reported in Bollywood Hungama that the makers are planning a major surprise. 'There is a possibility that Priyanka Chopra may return to the Don franchise," the source said. With the makers eyeing January to begin the shoot, the target is to release the movie by December 2026. Actor Vikrant Massey is also set to reunite with Ranveer in this movie after Dil Dhadakne Do and Lootera. Don 3, the biggest Bollywood superstar collaboration Ranveer Singh will play the lead in Don 3. Singh shared the first glimpse of his upcoming film, Dhurandhar, which is being produced and directed by Aditya Dhar, on his special day. Priyanka Chopra may reprise her role as Roma in the movie, according to certain sources, which would increase the excitement. Fans will now closely monitor everything related to the Farhan Akhtar movie, and although neither of the stories has been confirmed, these developments are undoubtedly increasing the buzz for Don 3. The insider also disclosed that Kiara, who had agreed to take Priyanka Chopra's place as the female lead in Don 3, became pregnant, which caused Farhan to postpone the film's production. About the franchise: Don 3 Don 3's shooting is scheduled to start in January 2026, with a December 2026 theatrical release date as the ultimate goal. Amitabh Bachchan had originally played the character of Don in the movie, which was released in 1978. Boman Irani, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Shah Rukh Khan all played important parts in the second instalment of Don. The movie was released in 2006 and took home the Neuchâtel International Fantastic Film Festival's Best Asian Film award. Its sequel was later released in 2011, and it was also successful.
Khaleej Times
06-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Ranveer Singh, one of Bollywood's most bankable stars, turns 40
Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh, known for his electric energy, fearless fashion, and versatile roles, turned 40. Ranveer Singh is considered one of the bankable stars for producers in the Hindi film industry. Since his debut in the rom-com Band Baaja Baaraat (2010), Singh has delivered versatile performances in different genres. From his soothing performance in Lootera to displaying the underdog grit in Gully Boy, Singh showed that no genre or character is beyond his reach. The actor just took over a decade to tick all the boxes and establish himself as an entertainer. As the actor turns a year older today, let's revisit some of his diverse character portrayals. Band Baaja Baaraat (2010) In 2010, the actor made his debut with Band Baaja Baaraat, marking the beginning of a new era when Bollywood was flooded with star kids and actors who were ruling the screens for decades. In the movie helmed by Maneesh Sharma, Ranveer plays the role of Bittoo Sharma, a fun-loving youth who starts a wedding planning business with Shruti Kakkar (Anushka Sharma), an ambitious girl. Despite their promise not to mix business with love, the duo soon realises that they have fallen in love with each other, leading to complications in their professional and personal lives. Singh's performance was appreciated by the critics and his admirers. Lootera (2013) Singh's debut was followed by Ladies vs Ricky Bahl, which was not well-received. The actor decided to distance himself from commercial cinema with Vikramaditya Motwane's Lootera in 2013. With this film, Ranveer showcased his range as an actor. Adapted from a story by O Henry, the film hinges on a punchline and delivers it through a well-crafted ending. In the movie, Singh plays Varun Shrivastav, an archaeologist who travels to the village of Manikpur to study the land surrounding the temple, which is owned by the zamindar (landlord). Varun impresses the zamindar with his knowledge and charms his daughter Pakhi (Sonakshi Sinha). Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela (2013) In the same year, the actor took a 180-degree turn to deliver one of his best performances, via Sanjay Leela Bhansali's romantic drama film Ram-Leela, opposite Deepika Padukone. He played the role of Ram, who falls in love with Leela (Deepika), but the villagers oppose their union as they belong to communities that have been at odds for centuries. Singh's performance and his chemistry with Padukone were widely appreciated by critics and fans. 'Padmaavat' (2018) With Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Padmaavat, came the actor's breakthrough performance that set benchmarks. The film, which also starred Shahid Kapoor and Deepika Padukone in the lead roles, was released in January 2018. In the movie, Singh brilliantly portrays Sultan Alauddin Khilji, who is obsessed with capturing the famed beauty Queen Padmavati (Padukone) of Mewar. The only one standing in his way is her husband, Maharawal Ratan Singh (Kapoor). Simmba (2018) Singh took up a completely different role with the action-comedy film Simmba, yet again proving his range as an actor. This time, he joined Rohit Shetty's "cop universe" with the movie. The movie followed Sangram Simmba Bhalerao (Ranveer), a corrupt police officer who works for Durva, a big drug smuggler. When Durva's brothers murder a girl close to Simmba, he decides to go on the path of righteousness to avenge her. Gully Boy (2019) Undoubtedly, one of Singh's best movies is the 2019 Zoya Akhtar-directorial Gully Bolly, which also starred Alia Bhatt and Siddhant Chaturvedi. Inspired by the story of two Mumbai-based rappers, Naezy and Divine, Gully Boy is one of the few Bollywood films that pays tribute to Indian rappers. A critical and commercial success, the movie was also appreciated at the Berlin Film Festival, where it had its world premiere. In the movie, Singh plays Murad, a 22-year-old boy living in the slums of Dharavi, Mumbai. Murad's parents want him to become well-educated and get a good job, but Murad dreams of becoming a rapper. When Murad meets MC Sher (Siddhant), he takes on the alias Gully Boy and starts to realise his dream and fight to live it. The story beautifully showcases the inspiring journey of Singh's character as he struggles to make it big as a rapper. The star also raps his way into our hearts with his brilliant rapping skills perfectly showcased in songs like Apna Time Aayega, Mere Gully Mein and Asli Hip Hop. Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (2023) The latest addition to Ranveer Singh's diverse filmography is the Karan Johar directorial Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani in 2023. Paired with Alia Bhatt, the actor plays the role of a man on a mission to reunite his grandfather (Dharmendra) with his lost love, who happens to be Alia Bhatt's grandmother. Singh played the flamboyant Rocky Singh Randhawa. From his dance to flirting with Alia Bhatt in the film, the actor stood out in a star-studded cast. The actor has also appeared in several other movies, including Ladies vs. Ricky Bahl, Gunday, Dil Dhadakne Do, and Befikre, among others.
India Gazette
06-07-2025
- Entertainment
- India Gazette
'Gully Boy' actor Ranveer Singh turns 40; Let us revisit some diverse character portrayals
New Delhi [India], July 6 (ANI): Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh, known for his electric energy, fearless fashion, and versatile role choices, has turned 40 today. Ranveer Singh is considered one of the bankable stars for producers in the Hindi film industry. Since his explosive debut in Band Baaja Baaraat (2010) under Yash Raj Films, Ranveer has consistently treated his fans with his impeccable performances across different movie genres. From his soothing performance in 'Lootera' to displaying the underdog grit in 'Gully Boy', Ranveer has proved that no genre or character is beyond his reach. The 'Gully Boy' actor just took over a decade to tick all the boxes and establish himself as an entertainment superstar and an admirer of grandiose fashion. As the actor turns a year older today, let's revisit some of the diverse character portrayals that Ranveer has brought to the viewers. Band Baaja Baaraat (2010) In 2010, the actor made his debut with 'Band Baaja Baaraat', marking the beginning of a new era when Bollywood was flooded with star kids and actors who were ruling the screens for decades. In the movie helmed by Maneesh Sharma, Ranveer plays the role of Bittoo Sharma, a fun-loving youth who starts a wedding planning business with Shruti Kakkar (Anushka Sharma), an ambitious girl. Despite their promise not to mix business with love, the duo soon realises that they have fallen in love with each other, leading to complications in their professional and personal lives. Ranveer's performance was appreciated by the critics and his admirers. Lootera (2013) Ranveer's debut was followed by Ladies vs Ricky Bahl, which was not well-received by his fans or critics. Instead of contemplating his past movie choices, the actor took a brave decision to distance himself from commercial cinema with Vikramaditya Motwane's 'Lootera' in 2013. With this film, Ranveer showcased his range as an actor. Adapted from a story by O. Henry, the film hinges on a punchline and delivers it through a well-crafted ending. In the movie, Ranveer plays the role of Varun Shrivastav, an archaeologist who travels to the village of Manikpur to study the land surrounding the temple, which is owned by the zamindar. Varun impresses the zamindar with his knowledge and charms his daughter Pakhi (Sonakshi Sinha). However, Varun leads a mysterious second life, which ruins his relationship with Pakhi. Varun runs away only to be reunited with Pakhi years later under very different circumstances. Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela (2013) In the same year as the release of his 'Lootera', the actor took a 180-degree turn to deliver one of his best performances since his debut, via Sanjay Leela Bhansali's romantic drama film 'Ram-Leela', opposite Deepika Padukone, who was at the peak of her career at that time. He played the role of Ram, who falls in love with Leela (Deepika), but the villagers oppose their union as they belong to communities that have been at odds for centuries. Due to constant politics and hatred among their communities, the lovebirds decide to kill themselves after they realised that they cannot live together in peace. Ranveer's performance and chemistry with Deepika Padukone in the movie were widely appreciated by the critics and his fans. Padmaavat (2018) With Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Padmaavat', came the actor's breakthrough performance, which definitely set new benchmarks. Some would argue that his Khilji act in the period drama goes down as one of the best performances in the history of Indian cinema. The film, which also starred Shahid Kapoor and Deepika Padukone in the lead roles, was released in January 2018. In the movie, Ranveer brilliantly portrays Sultan Alauddin Khalji, who is obsessed with capturing the famed beauty Queen Padmavati (Deepika) of Mewar. The only one standing in his way is her husband, Maharawal Ratan Singh (Shahid). Apart from 'Padmaavat', the actor has also collaborated with SLB on movies like 'Goliyon ki Rasleela: Ram-Leela' (2013) and 'Bajirao Mastani' (2015). Both movies also starred Ranveer's wife and actor Deepika Padukone. Simmba (2018) After portraying a powerful, dark character in SLB's 'Padmaavat', Ranveer took up a completely different role with the action-comedy film 'Simmba', yet again proving his range as an actor. This time, the actor decided to try his hand at commercial films again, to reach the Indian masses. He joins Rohit Shetty's cop universe with the movie 'Simmba'. The movie followed Sangram 'Simmba' Bhalerao (Ranveer), a corrupt police officer who works for Durva, a big drug smuggler. When Durva's brothers rape and murder a girl close to Simmba, he decides to go on the path of righteousness to avenge her. Gully Boy (2019) Undoubtedly, one of Ranveer's best movies is the 2019 Zoya Akhtar-directorial 'Gully Bolly', which also starred Alia Bhatt and Siddhant Chaturvedi. Inspired by the story of two Mumbai-based rappers, Naezy and Divine, Gully Boy is one of the few Bollywood films that pays tribute to Indian rappers. 'Gully Boy' was a critical and commercial success. The movie was also appreciated at the Berlin Film Festival, where it had its world premiere. In the movie, Ranveer plays Murad, a 22-year-old boy living in the slums of Dharavi, Mumbai. Murad's parents want him to become well-educated and get a good job, but Murad has dreams of becoming a rapper. When Murad meets MC Sher (Siddhant), he takes on the alias 'Gully Boy' and starts to realise his dream and fight to live it. The story beautifully showcases the inspiring journey of Ranveer's character as he struggles to make it big as a rapper. The star also raps his way into our hearts with his brilliant rapping skills perfectly showcased in songs like 'Apna Time Aayega', 'Mere Gully Mein' and 'Asli Hip Hop'. Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (2023) The latest addition to Ranveer Singh's diverse filmography is Karan Johar directorial 'Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani' in 2023. Paired with Alia Bhatt, the actor plays the role of a man on a mission to reunite his grandfather (Dharmendra) with his lost love, who happens to be Alia Bhatt's grandmother. Ranveer played the role of Rocky Singh Randhawa, who was flamboyant in every sense. From his dance to flirting with Alia Bhatt in the film, the actor was eye candy for his fans in this movie. The film had a star-studded cast of Shabana Azmi, Jaya Bachchan and Dharmendra along with the lead pair. These were just a few films that made us fall in love with Ranveer Singh, who has numerous awards under his belt and will surely gain quite a few more in his career. The actor has also appeared in several other movies, including 'Ladies vs. Ricky Bahl', 'Gunday', 'Dil Dhadakne Do', and 'Befikre', among others. (ANI)
