Latest news with #Riteish


India.com
a day ago
- Entertainment
- India.com
Meet actor who became villain at request of his wife, made audience speechless with his role, film won 18 awards, movie is…, he is…
This actor had built his career on laughter, becoming beloved face in comedy with impeccable timing and lighthearted roles. But one decision changed the course of his image forever. Urged by his wife, he stepped out of his comfort zone and into the shadows of a dark, villainous character. What followed was a complete surprise, as audiences saw a new, chilling side of the actor they once associated with smiles. His character not just gave him a new vision but also made this film huge blockbuster as well. Bollywood Actor… Here we are talking about Riteish Deshmukh , who is known as one of the finest actors in the industry. The actor made his iconic debut with 2003 romantic drama Tujhe Meri Kasam with actress Genelia D Souza , now known as Genelia Deshmukh . Later, the actor shifted himself into comic roles and did numerous films including Masti, Bluffmaster, Malamaal Weekly, Kya Kool Hai Hum and many other films. However, things changed when he played the iconic character of Raghu in the 2014 action-thriller flick Ek Villain , which also starred Siddharth Malhotra and Shraddha Kapoor . But did you know that behind taking that iconic role, it was Genelia who encouraged him. When Genelia Encouraged Riteish To Play Negative Character In 2014, during an interview with India Today, Riteish said that his better half, Genelia, requested him to take the negative role in Ek Villain. He said, 'Genelia often encourages me to take on roles with a negative or darker aspect. When I was presented with the opportunity to star in Ek Villain, I immediately felt it was the right choice. It was a moment where everything came together for me.' After the release, film received gigantic, praiseworthy response for its conviction, soothing and powerful tracks, along with praiseworthy performances. As per report from the trade site Sacnilk, Ek Villain was produced with a budget of Rs 39 crores . In India, the film recorded a net collection of Rs 105.76 crores , while its total global earnings reached Rs 155 crores and became a huge success for all the stars. The film also bagged many awards, including IIFA, BIG Star, Mirchi Music Music and Star Guild Awards , earning a total of 18 awards for this action thriller.


Hindustan Times
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Housefull 5 review: Akshay Kumar and Ritesh Deshmukh anchor this cruise drama; climax makes up for the flaws
Everyone who has watched the Housefull franchise (the fifth one hit theatres today, interestingly in two versions- 5A and 5B, each with a different ending) has a favourite. Mine is Housefull 1 and Housefull 2. None of the five films are connected in any way, except for three actors the series has managed to retain since the very beginning: Akshay Kumar, Riteish Deshmukh, and Chunky Panday. The issue with Housefull 5 is that these three are the only ones who truly understand the tough art of making people laugh- out of an ensemble of 19 actors. Written and produced by Sajid Nadiadwala and directed by Tarun Mansukhani, the story (yes, there's one this time) revolves around a 99-year-old billionaire (Ranjeet) who dies just before his birthday party on a cruise. He leaves behind an inheritance of 69 billion pounds for his son, Jolly. Then, three Jollys show up-played by Akshay, Riteish, and Abhishek Bachchan-each accompanied by their girlfriend (Nargis Fakhri, Sonam Bajwa, and Jacqueline Fernandez). And then, a murder takes place aboard the ship. Who's the killer? But my question is: Who watches Housefull films for the story anyway? The film starts off on a funny note, helped along by Shreyas Talpade's presence. But it lacks the energy you'd expect for the kind of boisterous ride you've signed up for- until Akshay walks in, Ace Ventura style. His comic timing immediately lifts the film, but I can't say the same for the other characters. The first half is spent establishing the conflict and delivering the franchise's usual fare: mistaken identities, someone's girlfriend being someone's wife, and the expected private-part jokes and innuendos. Nothing is spared in the effort to make you laugh, but most punchlines land only in instalments. Akshay knows exactly what's expected of him. This is classic Akshay comedy territory, and he makes even the flat writing work. But it's also clear that Sajid is relying far more on his star's charm than on crafting genuinely funny material. Often, the jokes are a joke. There are a couple of problematic sequences too, but you ignore those because the makers never claimed that they are setting out to make a politically correct film. The second half shifts gears into crime-investigation mode, led by two suspended cops- Baba (Jackie Shroff) and Bhidu (Sanjay Dutt). Yes, I didn't mix up their real-life nicknames. Their senior, played by Nana Patekar, joins in to solve the case. This part is better- some scenes do manage to draw laughs. The climax in version 5B is genuinely funny and, for the first time, everyone in my theatre was laughing together. Still, something feels off about Housefull 5. As if something-or someone- is holding these comedy veterans (like Riteish) back. I suspect it's the writing. Shreyas Talpade's character, for instance, virtually disappears after the early scenes, reappearing only occasionally. Which is a shame as he's a natural in this genre. Abhishek, meanwhile, gets plenty of screen time but doesn't land a single laugh. He shines when the material supports him (Bol Bachchan, anyone?). Here, he's a letdown-along with the female actors, who are given little to do beyond looking glamorous. Overall, Housefull 5 feels like being stuck on a cruise with a few comic veterans, and a funny script that forgot to board the ship. It floats, wobbles, but you are just waiting for it to dock. Watch it with your friends who like double meaning jokes. We all have one.


India Gazette
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- India Gazette
Riteish Deshmukh, Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan-starrer 'Raja Shivaji' to be released in May 2026
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], May 21 (ANI): The release date of Riteish Deshmukh, Sanjay Dutt and Abhishek Bachchan-starrer 'Raja Shivaji' has been announced. The film will hit the theatres on May 1, 2026 in Marathi, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam. Riteish has directed 'Raja Shivaji', which also stars Genelia Deshmukh, Mahesh Manjrekar, Fardeen Khan, and Bhagyashree. Maestros Ajay-Atul and legendary cinematographer Santosh Sivan have come on board to enhance the musical and cinematography of the film, which is currently in production across Mumbai and Wai in Maharashtra. Sharing on what audience can expect from the film, Riteish in a press note said, 'Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is not just a historical figure -- he is an emotion that lives in the hearts of millions. To be able to tell a part of his extraordinary story is both an honour and a great responsibility. I'm deeply grateful to Jyoti Deshpande and Jio Studios for placing their faith in this vision. Releasing the film on Maharashtra Day feels especially meaningful, and with a cast we could only dream of, we feel truly fortunate. We hope audiences across languages connect with the spirit of Raja Shivaji as deeply as we have.' Jyoti Deshpande, President - Jio Studios (Media & Content Business - RIL) said, 'Raja Shivaji is more than just a film -- it's a celebration of Swarajya and what that means to every Indian. This vision could only be brought to life by someone who holds the story close to his heart, and Riteish, along with Genelia, has done just that with passion and purpose. Our goal is to bring the awe-inspiring life of Shivaji Maharaj, one of the greatest heroes to be born on the Indian soil, from India to the world. Backed by an ensemble of some of the finest talents from across industries, this film is one of the most ambitious ventures we've undertaken.' The makers on Wednesday also shared the first motion poster of the film. Have a look Genelia Deshmukh, too, expressed excitement over the film. As per her, 'This film has been a labour of love -- a journey shaped by years of thought, research, and reverence.' 'Raja Shivaji is a heartfelt tribute to the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj who continues to inspire generations. We're thankful to Jio Studios for sharing our belief in this story and enabling us to bring it to life. It's our humble attempt to honour history and share it with audiences across the country and beyond,' she said. (ANI)


Hindustan Times
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Raja Shivaji: Riteish Deshmukh reveals first look poster of his magnum opus, film to release on this date
Actor Riteish Deshmukh revealed the first motion poster of his directorial Raja Shivaji on Wednesday. The film is based on the life of Maratha warrior Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Riteish plays the titular role in the film. The first poster gives a glimpse of his look of his magnum opus. (Also read: Riteish Deshmukh on not getting his due in Bollywood: 'Mujhe meri aukaat se bohot zyada mila hai') Riteish took to his Instagram account and shared the first motion poster of the film while also revealing the release date of the film. Riteish wrote the caption in Marathi which translated to, "Presenting cinematic greetings to Maharashtra's adorable deity, the great mighty Rajadhiraj Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. #Raja Shivaji May 1, 2026 Marathi, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam." The actor also tagged the illustrious star cast of the film which includes Abhishek Bachchan, Sanjay Dutt, Mahesh Manjrekar, Sachin Khedekar, Bhagyashree, Fardeen Khan, Jitendra Joshi, Amole Gupte, and Genelia Deshmukh. A post shared by Riteish Deshmukh (@riteishd) Bollywood stars and fans applauded the first look of the film and congratulated Riteish. Actor Suniel Shetty commented with red heart and raising hand emoji. Nargis Fakhri also reacted with raising hand and fire emoji. Shilpa Shirodkar commented with folded hands emoji. Actor Saiyami commented on the post and said, "Superb". One fan said, "Super excited for this one". Another fan wrote, "This is what we are waiting for". One fan commented, "Can't wait!! (fire emoji). Another fan appreciated cinematographer Santosh Sivan and music composer Ajay-Atul and wrote, ' The fact that cinematographer is Santosh Sivan and music by Ajay-Atul- 50% film is there (fire emoji) (clapping emoji) and (raising hand emoji).' Raja Shivaji chronicles the rise of young Shivaji Bhonsale, who challenged the might of established empires to found the Maratha kingdom and lay the groundwork for Swarajya (self-rule) during a turbulent period of Indian history.


Time of India
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Akshay, Abhishek and Riteish's 'dil' just got a foot-tapping 'bewafa twist'
The ' Housefull 5 ' makers on Thursday unveiled a new track titled ' Dil E Nadaan ,' which is every bit a foot-tapping dance number sprinkled with an extra scoop of oomph. Akshay and Riteish took to Instagram, where they shared the dance number and wrote in the caption section: "This Dil just got a bewafa twist." Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The song features Akshay, Abhishek Bachchan, Riteish, , Sonam Bajwa and Nargis Fakhri are seen in the song Dil E Nadaan, composed by White Noise Collectives. The track is penned by Kumaar, and sung by Madhubanti Bagchi and Sumonto Mukherjee, Dil E Nadaan is a celebration of impulsive hearts and dramatic love. It was on May 3, when the makers dropped the hip-swaying number 'Laal Pari' by Yo Yo Honey Singh and the entire cast was seen grooving to the high-energy party number on a cruise. The track, which is set against the backdrop of a luxurious cruise, is sung by the ever-popular Yo Yo Honey Singh and the dynamic Simar Kaur. It is also composed by the 'Millionaire' hitmaker with lyrics penned by him and Alfaaz. 'Laal Pari' showcases the sparkling chemistry of the film's massive ensemble cast , Abhishek Bachchan, , Jacqueline Fernandez, Sonam Bajwa, Nargis Fakhri, Sanjay Dutt, Jackie Shroff, Nana Patekar, Chitrangada Singh, Chunky Pandey, Johnny Lever, Shreyas Talpade, , Nikitin Dheer, and Akashdeep Sabir. Directed by Tarun Mansukhani, Housefull 5 is produced by under the banner of Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment. The film will be released on June 6. 'Housefull' first released in 2010 and the second installment came out in 2012. The first two films were directed by Sajid Khan. The third film, Housefull 3, which was directed by Sajid-Farhad, hit the screens in 2016. The fourth film came out in 2019 and was directed by Farhad Samji. 'Housefull 5' is scheduled to hit the cinemas worldwide on June 6.