Latest news with #RiteshSidhwani
India Today
11-08-2025
- Entertainment
- India Today
Farhan Akhtar-backed Manipuri film Boong selected as Spotlight film at Melbourne festival
'Boong', a Manipuri film supported by actor and filmmaker Farhan Akhtar, has been selected as the Spotlight Film at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2025. The film is set to make its Victorian state premiere in Australia this by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani's Excel Entertainment, 'Boong' is directed by debutant Lakshmipriya Devi, who has worked as the first assistant director on major projects like 'Luck by Chance', 'Talaash', and Aamir Khan's 'PK'.advertisementSet against the backdrop of the picturesque Manipur valley, 'Boong' tells the poignant story of a young boy, Boong, portrayed by Gugun Kipgen. The narrative follows Boong's touching journey to reunite his family by surprising his mother, played by Bala Hijam, with his absentee father. This quest, filled with innocence, leads to unexpected revelations and emotional discoveries. The film has already garnered attention for its storytelling, winning several accolades. It was awarded Best Feature Film at the International South Asian Film Festival in Canada, and also took home the Best Youthful Film award at the Asia Pacific Screen Awards in Australia. Additionally, it won the Audience Choice Award for Best Narrative Feature Film at The Indie Meme Film Devi has received critical acclaim for her work, earning the Best Director title at the Bulbul Children's International Film Festival in Goa. Her ability to weave a compelling narrative that resonates across cultures has been widely praised, marking her as a rising talent in the global film recognition of 'Boong' at the IFFM reflects the growing appeal of Indian regional films in international markets.- Ends
NDTV
05-08-2025
- Entertainment
- NDTV
Farhan Akhtar Backs Raanjhanaa Director In AI Row, "Can't Change A Film Without Consent," Says Ritesh Sidhwani
Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani are the latest film personalities to weigh in on the growing use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in cinema, following the controversy around Raanjhanaa 's Tamil version Ambikapathy. Raanjhanaa, originally directed by Anand L Rai and starring Dhanush, was re-released by production house Eros Entertainment last week in Tamil with an altered climax created using AI with original creators claiming they never gave any consent. Both Aanand L Rai and Dhanush publicly criticised the move, calling it a violation of creative integrity. At the launch of their upcoming film 120 Bahadur, Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani made it clear where they stand. Farhan Akhtar said, "I will always stand with the creator of the film. If the creator is unhappy about their work being changed, I'll always support them. That's where my loyalty lies." Ritesh Sidhwani added, "I agree with Farhan. AI is a tool we must learn to use effectively and responsibly. Just like we moved from researching in libraries to using Google, AI is the next step - but it must never replace consent. I've read about what happened with Raanjhanaa, and honestly, it's not okay. If the filmmaker, the actor, or anyone involved hasn't given their permission, it shouldn't be done." Alongside voicing their views, the duo unveiled the teaser for 120 Bahadur, a stirring war drama inspired by the real-life heroes of the Battle of Rezang La during the 1962 India-China War. Starring Farhan Akhtar as the war hero Major Shaitan Singh, the film brings to life the story of 120 Indian soldiers of Charlie Company, 13 Kumaon Regiment, who stood their ground against overwhelming odds, fighting thousands of enemy troops in sub-zero temperatures. Directed by Razneesh "Razy" Ghai, 120 Bahadur is set to be released in theatres on November 21, 2025. Also starring Raashii Khanna, the movie is produced by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani's Excel Entertainment.
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First Post
28-06-2025
- Entertainment
- First Post
Excel Entertainment joins hands with Anupam Kher Studios for his globally acclaimed film Tanvi The Great
Tanvi The Great tells a story of love, resilience, and the unbreakable spirit of a girl who, against all odds and perceptions, turns hope into triumph. read more Excel Entertainment, led by powerhouse producers Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar, who have delivered iconic films from Dil Chahta Hai to Don, has come on board as the global distributor for Anupam Kher's directorial Tanvi The Great. The film has already made waves globally, premiering at marquee festivals like the Cannes Film Festival, New York Indian Film Festival, and many others. It has received an excellent early reception following its festival run. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Tanvi The Great tells a story of love, resilience, and the unbreakable spirit of a girl who, against all odds and perceptions, turns hope into triumph. Ritesh Sidhwani said, 'Tanvi The Great is a film that resonates deeply with universal emotions and the power of the human spirit. We're honoured to partner with Anupam Kher Studios to bring this moving story to audiences across the globe.' Farhan Akhtar shared, 'The vision and passion behind Tanvi The Great are truly inspiring. We at Excel are excited to support this beautiful film and help it find the audience it deserves worldwide.' Anupam Kher shared, 'I've always admired the incredible storytelling and vision of Excel Entertainment. Thrilled to have them come on board for Tanvi The Great. Their support strengthens our journey in taking this inspiring film to greater heights!' The movie boasts a powerful ensemble cast with names like Anupam Kher, Iain Glen, Boman Irani, Jackie Shroff, Arvind Swami, Pallavi Joshi, Karan Tacker, M. Nasser, and debutant Shubhangi. Directed by Anupam Kher, with music by Oscar-winner M. M. Keeravani, Tanvi The Great is produced by Anupam Kher Studios in collaboration with the NFDC. The global distribution is handled by AA Films, led by Anil Thadani and Excel Entertainment. Tanvi The Great releases on 18th July 2025. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
India.com
01-05-2025
- Entertainment
- India.com
Superboys Of Malegaon Becomes Only Indian Film In Letterboxd's Top 50 Of 2025
New Delhi: Superboys of Malegaon has achieved a remarkable feat, becoming the only Indian film to secure a spot in Letterboxd's prestigious Top 50 Films of 2025. With a strong rating of 3.8, the film proudly claims the 23rd position on the global list, standing out among international titles. This heartwarming true story of Nasir Sheikh and his friends—dreamers from the small town of Malegaon who embarked on a journey to create their own cinematic world—has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. The film, which debuted at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) as part of the World Premieres Gala program, has garnered both critical acclaim and immense love from viewers. Produced by Ritesh Sidhwani, Farhan Akhtar, Zoya Akhtar, and Reema Kagti, Superboys of Malegaon is an Amazon MGM Original, brought to life by Excel Entertainment and Tiger Baby. Written by Varun Grover, the film features a stellar ensemble cast, including Adarsh Gourav, Vineet Kumar Singh, and Shashank Arora in lead roles. Currently streaming on Prime Video across 240 countries and territories, Superboys of Malegaon continues to make waves and inspire viewers globally.
