Latest news with #Mohanlal-starrer
News18
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- News18
Mohanlal's Chotta Mumbai To Re-Release In Theatres After 18 Years
Last Updated: Chotta Mumbai, starring Mohanlal, returns to theatres on June 6, 2025, in 4K. Directed by Anwar Rasheed, the film is celebrated for its iconic cast and nostalgic value. Chotta Mumbai is coming back on the big screen and it's like 2007 never left. The iconic Mohanlal-starrer hit theatres again on June 6, 2025, and Malayalis everywhere are turning up in full force to relive the magic. Directed by Anwar Rasheed, this action-comedy gem was the film that defined cool for an entire generation. And now, watching it in all its upgraded 4K glory will ignite pure nostalgia in fans. Videos doing the rounds on social media show packed houses in places like Kottayam, with whistles, cheers, and goosebumps galore. One fan summed it up perfectly on social media, 'Chotta Mumbai is not just about Lalettan. It's a full-blown celebration of legends like Rajan P. Dev, Kalabhavan Mani, Haneefikka, and Jagathy Chettan." Another wrote, 'It's better than many of today's releases! That sound, those visuals, that crowd—it's a lifetime celebration!" The man of the hour, Mohanlal himself, shared a heartfelt message along with a throwback still from the film. He wrote, 'Thanks for all the love. #Chottamumbai4k now in theatres near you!" The film follows Vasco Da Gama aka Thala, played by Lalettan, who's the ultimate carefree rebel with a gang of equally jobless besties. They live life on their own terms—until a showdown with a corrupt cop/gangster shakes things up. The film's legendary lineup includes Indrajith Sukumaran, Jagathy Sreekumar, Kalabhavan Mani, Siddique, Manikuttan, and Bijukuttan. On the work front, Lalettan was last seen in Thudarum, a gripping thriller that's now streaming on JioHotstar. He'll also be making a cameo in Kannappa and is all set to reunite with Sathyan Anthikad for Hridayapoorvam. Mohanlal has enjoyed a remarkable career in Indian cinema for over 40 years, appearing in more than 400 films across genres. Recognising his immense contribution to the industry, the Government of India awarded him the Padma Shri in 2001 and later the Padma Bhushan in 2019—India's fourth and third highest civilian honours, respectively. In a historic move, Mohanlal was also conferred with the honorary rank of lieutenant colonel in the Territorial Army in 2009, becoming the first Indian actor to receive such an honour. First Published:
Hindustan Times
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan teaser: Vikrant Massey, Shanaya Kapoor explore if love is blind. Watch
Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan teaser: The teaser for Santosh Singh's Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan, starring Vikrant Massey and Shanaya Kapoor, was released on Thursday. The less than a minute video explores how Vikrant and Shanaya fall in love, all while exploring if love is blind. (Also Read: Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan first look: Vikrant Massey romances Shanaya Kapoor; internet says 'age difference is showing') Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan's teaser starts off with a shot of Vikrant wearing sunglasses and Shanaya with a blindfold on. The musical romance is described to explore the 'charm of first love, fleeting moments, and the ache of separation' in a press note. The teaser hints at a spontaneous meeting between two strangers turning into something more. Despite not revealing much, both characters are seen wearing blindfolds at different times. It ends with Vikrant asking Shanaya if it's safe to say that love is blind, given her situation. Shanaya's friends and family seemed happy that the budding actor was finally debuting. Her dad, Sanjay Kapoor, commented, 'Jai Mata Di,' and her mom, Maheep Kapoor, wrote, 'Love love love.' Her friend Navya Nanda wrote, 'Wohoooo Shan!!!' Anjini Dhawan commented with heart and star emojis. Fans were also intrigued, with one wondering, 'Is this an adaptation of 'the eyes have it'?' A fan commented, 'Finally Shanaya is entered the bollywood.' Another wrote, 'I have faith in this debut, she is going to kill it.' Some loved Vishal Mishra's music, while others thought both actors had 'charm'. Presented by Zee Studios and Mini Films, and produced by Mansi Bagla and Varun Bagla, Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan is directed by Santosh Singh and written by Mansi Bagla. Vikrant Massey and Shanaya Kapoor headline the film that will be released on 11 July. This film will mark Shanaya's debut. She also stars in Mohanlal-starrer Vrushabha, which will be released on 16 October and Tu Yaa Main with Adarsh Gourav, which will be released on Valentine's Day next year.
Indian Express
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Jakes Bejoy and Vedan join forces for hard-hitting Narivetta song Vaada Veda. Watch
Tovino Thomas' upcoming film Narivetta, which centers on a village's fight for their land and community, is set to hit screens on April 23. Ahead of the release, rapper Vedan and composer Jakes Bejoy have dropped a promo song titled 'Vaada Veda'. The hip-hop track's visuals and lyrics offer a glimpse into the film's powerful themes and narrative. Set against a dark backdrop of red and black, we see Vedan being hauled out of a police van, with his hands and feet in shackles. Other people in the van, including children, look to him in awe as chants from the background talk about a man who has surpassed their 'god and temples, a man with a majestic roar'. Vedan dives headfirst into the first verse as Bejoy's music walks hand in hand, in protest. The rapper talks about 'Khaki demons', presumably referring to police officers who have made their way into the jungle, on holy land. The song's narrative appears to trace the fate of the forest through the lives of the trees and the birds that inhabit it. ALSO READ: Sangeeth Prathap reveals how he landed a key role in blockbuster Mohanlal-starrer Thudarum: 'The only reason I said yes to the film was…' Vedan refers to the 'mother bird crying' as her home is being snatched away from her and compares the firing of machine guns to chants. He then proceeds to list out the injustice nature is facing and how mountains and trees are crumbling and questions whether humans have a heart, similar to trees and creatures in the forest. The song also features small snippets from the film, which further help the listener in understanding the narrative. Through the clip of two police officers, in which they are battling between their sense of morality and duty, we witness that not everything is black and white and that the war between the authorities and the village is not linear in nature. That multi-layered conflict will be explored by director Anuraj Manohar through his protagonist, played by Tovino Thomas. As seen in the trailer, the junior police officer is torn between what he believes is right and what his duty entails. The narrative that was put forth in the trailer seems to be clearer now, and the song gives this story of revolution even more weight. The cast of the film also includes Suraj Venjaramoodu, Cheran, Arya Salim, and Priyamvada Krishnan.
New Indian Express
08-05-2025
- Entertainment
- New Indian Express
With 'Thudarum', Pathanamthitta's verdant beauty is gaining momentum in Mollywood
PATHANAMTHITTA: As the Mohanlal-starrer Thudarum is making waves at the box office, the Pathanamthitta district also has its moment in the spotlight, showcasing a perfect setting for compelling Malayalam films. Despite challenges in hosting full-scale film productions, the district's picturesque landscapes and rich cultural backdrop with hill shrines such as Sabarimala to art forms like Padayani make it a favorite for filmmakers and audiences alike. Even when movies are not entirely shot in Pathanamthitta, the district's charm and identity remain integral to the narratives. Social media platforms have amplified the district's association with Malayalam cinema. Netizens point out how viewers associate the region with films like Thudarum, with Mohanlal's portrayal of a Ranni native resonating deeply. It reflects a growing appreciation for Pathanamthitta as a cinematic muse. Adding to Pathanamthitta's cinematic allure is its connection to Mohanlal. His family hails from Elanthur, Pathanamthitta, strengthens the bond between the actor and the district. Fans often view Mohanlal's roles set in Pathanamthitta, like in Thudarum, as a tribute to his roots, further cementing the district's place in the hearts of Malayalam cinema enthusiasts. While Pathanamthitta's beauty is undeniable, logistical hurdles such as limited transportation and camping facilities and lack of other essential infrastructures make it challenging for filmmakers to conduct full-fledged shoots. As a result, many movies set in the district end up being filmed elsewhere. For instance, Gavi, a major eco-tourism spot in the district, came to the limelight after Ordinary, a 2012 Malayalam thriller-comedy starring Biju Menon, Kunchacko Boban, and Asif Ali, based on the incidents related to a KSRTC bus to Gavi. Though it was shot mainly in Gavi, multiple parts of the film was shot in other localities.
Indian Express
08-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Sarkeet movie review: Asif Ali, Orhan elevate Thamar KV film
Sarkeet movie review: One of the most intriguing qualities of Thamar KV as a filmmaker is his ability to craft a slow-burn drama using plot devices that many other directors would have simply used to create a thriller. It's not easy to resist the norms and the illusion perpetuated by the market that the commercial formula is the safest bet for success. In his debut film 1001 Nunakal (2023), despite having ample elements to turn it into a full-blown, edge-of-the-seat thriller akin to Jeethu Joseph's Mohanlal-starrer 12th Man (2022), Thamar took a different path. He treated the plot with restraint, creating a unique and memorable film that explored the complexities of lies and the consequences — or lack thereof — of absolute honesty among people who share close relationships. In his sophomore directorial venture Sarkeet, Thamar has adopted a similar approach, crafting another drama that also functions as a two-hander at times. The film follows a youngster and a boy on a much-needed outing that would allow them to blow off steam and escape the many issues they're grappling with. For Jeffron (Orhan), a child with severe attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) — which causes difficulties with attention, hyperactivity and impulsivity — life is largely confined within the walls of his home in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), especially since he can no longer attend school. Once his parents, Balu (Deepak Parambol) and Stephy (Divya Prabha), leave for work, locking him inside a room in their flat, Jeffron is left alone with his imagination, which runs wild all the time. Though his parents love him, especially his mother, they are clueless about how to handle his condition, particularly during his outbursts. The most troubling part is that they don't even make the necessary effort to understand or support him, despite Stephy being a nurse with access to resources that could help them educate themselves. Whenever Jeffron throws a tantrum, they treat it as an isolated incident rather than part of a larger pattern, failing to address the root of the issue. Their inability to agree on how to manage his behaviour leads to frequent arguments between Balu and Stephy too, thus making matters worse. Meanwhile, Jeffron crosses paths with Ameer (Asif Ali), an unemployed youth who has arrived in the UAE with dreams of finding a decent job to improve his life and support his elderly mother back home. Jeffron and Ameer are then drawn into an unexpected sarkeet (jaunt) that ends up changing their lives forever. One of the major draws of Sarkeet, which also underscores Thamar's strengths as a filmmaker, is how visually distinct it is from 1001 Nunakal, a film that required an opulent setting in keeping with its backdrop. Take Jeffron's house, for instance: its interiors not only reflect how his ADHD manifests, but also subtly reveal the family's financial struggles — evident in the many items they've repaired or glued back together after Jeffron has broken them, rather than replacing them. Without relying on heavy-handed symbolism or dialogues, writer-director Thamar effectively conveys that the couple's marriage is interfaith; that despite the passage of years, their lives remain insecure; and that both are frustrated with their living conditions. In parallel, and without resorting to extensive exposition or melodrama, the makers also shed proper light on Ameer's living situation. Notably, Thamar's personal experience of having lived in the Gulf has added depth and authenticity to Sarkeet. The struggles depicted in the film, in particular, differ significantly from the stereotypical portrayals often seen in Malayalam cinema set in the UAE, adding to its overall beauty and emotional impact. Within Jeffron's home, too, Thamar avoids the clichéd tropes and exaggerated moments that makers often lean on when depicting marital discord or familial tension. Instead, he treats these dynamics with subtlety and depth, in a way that serves the narrative well. In one scene, Balu and Stephy are shown arguing loudly over Jeffron's behaviour. While most directors might depict the child as visibly distressed — or perhaps crying, Thamar offers a more nuanced portrayal. Here, Jeffron is seen in the background, jumping on the sofa, not paying attention to the conflict around him. In another moment, after Stephy informs Balu that she's pregnant, Jeffron accidentally breaks the tea glass his father is holding. Frustrated by Balu's muted reaction to the news and overwhelmed by everything that's happening — and all that lies ahead — Stephy lashes out and hits Jeffron many times before locking him in his room. She then calmly returns to the dining table, where Balu joins her, and they discuss the idea of adoption. Rather than resorting to theatrics, Thamar handles such emotionally charged scenes with restraint and realism, grounding the film in a naturalistic tone that feels familiar and authentic. His ability to gradually flesh out interpersonal relationships, without forcing characters into writer-convenient situations, is visible in this film. In fact, it isn't limited to Jeffron and Ameer; the dynamics between Balu and Stephy, Balu and his friend Pothan (Asanth), and Ameer and his friend (Swathi Das Prabhu) are also thoughtfully developed. At the same time, the arcs given to the central characters, particularly Ameer and Jeffron, are quite endearing, albeit predictable. While the writing, especially in the second half, comes across as overtly convenient, the heartfelt performances of Asif and Orhan and their compelling on-screen chemistry allow the audience to overlook these shortcomings to an extent. Another area where the writing falters is in its near-complete disregard for the many other characters once Ameer and Jeffron come together. Even those who appear later in the film feel like afterthoughts, particularly Ameer's father (Zhinz Shan), who was introduced in an impactful manner with Ameer even delivering an emotional line explaining their tumultuous bond. Also Read | Thudarum movie review: Mohanlal, Tharun Moorthy deliver a nearly flawless revenge thriller Asif Ali, as always, delivers a brilliant performance as Ameer. From start to finish, his portrayal only strengthens. Here, he once again showcases his exceptional ability to handle emotional sequences with depth and sincerity, leaving a lasting impression on the audience. Orhan is impressive as Jeffron and he carefully navigates a role that could easily have tipped into overacting. Deepak Parambol delivers a performance better than many of his recent dismal ones. Divya Prabha does a solid job as Stephy, although traces of her character Anu from All We Imagine as Light are visible in this portrayal. Aeyaz's cinematography, particularly in the shots with just Ameer and Jeffron and the entire space around them vacant as if they have only each other, amplifies the film's core themes beautifully. Sangeeth Prathap's editing complements this visual rhythm and elevates the narrative flow. Thamar's thoughtful choices on when to employ music and when to lean into ambient sound further enrich the atmosphere, allowing Govind Vasantha's music to emerge naturally and powerfully when it appears. Equally commendable is Vishvanathan Aravind's art direction. Sarkeet movie cast: Asif Ali, Divya Prabha, Orhan, Deepak Parambol, Remya Suresh, Prashanth Alexander Sarkeet movie director: Thamar KV Sarkeet movie rating: 3 stars Anandu Suresh is a Senior sub-editor at Indian Express Online. He specialises in Malayalam cinema, but doesn't limit himself to it and explores various aspects of the art form. He also pens a column titled Cinema Anatomy, where he delves extensively into the diverse layers and dimensions of cinema, aiming to uncover deeper meanings and foster continuous discourse. Anandu previously worked with The New Indian Express' news desk in Hyderabad, Telangana. You can follow him on Twitter @anandu_suresh_ and write (or send movie recommendations) to him at ... Read More
