BY SUNIT JANGIR

Hyderabad, October 23 - It has been a decade since SS Rajamouli changed the Telugu cinema forever with Baahubali - The Beginning, which became a cult blockbuster, before Baahubali - The Conclusion (2017) took things to an unprecedented level, which became a benchmark for not just Telugu but also for Indian cinema. To make the 10th anniversary a grand event, the makers announced the re-release of the Baahubali duology, and unlike anything before, both films have been remastered in a single cut, titled Baahubali - The Epic with a theatrical runtime of 3 hours and 44 minutes. Baahubali - The Epic is scheduled to hit the worldwide theatres on October 31st in multiple languages, and will reportedly feature some new footage. Ahead of the grand release, it has been announced that an epic trailer of the film will be dropped online on October 24. Fans are anticipating that the trailer will feature some unseen footage and will generate some serious curiosity. Meanwhile, the advance booking of the film is already open in North America, and the response is robust with record sales for a re-release film. Produced by Shobu Yarlagadda and Prasad Devineni under the banner of Arka Media Works, the movie stars Prabhas in the title role of Baahubali alongside Rana Daggubati, Anushka Shetty, Sathyaraj, Ramya Krishnan, Tamannaah Bhatia, and Subbaraju in pivotal roles. MM Keeravani composed the music. Stay tuned...

BY CHRISTA LINCY

Jr NTR, one of Telugu cinema’s most formidable stars, has taken a bold step to reshape his much-anticipated film Dragon following the underwhelming reception of War 2. The actor, keenly aware of audience expectations and the stakes involved, requested director Prashanth Neel to rework key sequences and the script to ensure that Dragon reflects the cinematic impact his fans have come to expect. This proactive approach underscores Jr NTR’s commitment to his craft and to delivering a memorable theatrical experience. Sources reveal that while portions of Dragon had already been shot, Jr NTR felt certain elements could be elevated to better match his vision and the high-octane storytelling that Neel is known for. Renowned for his work on the KGF series and Salaar, Neel is collaborating closely with the actor to ensure the revamp strengthens the narrative, enhances the characters, and maximizes the film’s dramatic and action-driven potential. Contrary to circulating rumors, there is no rift between Jr NTR and Prashanth Neel; both remain fully committed to the project. Their collaboration reflects mutual respect and shared ambition, with the actor’s feedback seen as a constructive measure to refine the movie rather than a critique of the director’s craftsmanship. The decision to overhaul parts of the film inevitably affects the release timeline. The production team has announced that shooting will resume according to a revised schedule, likely pushing the premiere beyond initial expectations. This extended timeline, however, is intended to ensure that the final product meets the highest standards in terms of action, visual spectacle, and storytelling depth. As Dragon enters this pivotal phase, Jr NTR and Prashanth Neel are united in their goal of creating a cinematic experience that truly resonates with audiences. While fans will need to wait a bit longer, the collaborative efforts behind the scenes suggest that Dragon may emerge not only as a visually stunning action epic but also as a film that solidifies Jr NTR’s standing as a leading force in Indian cinema. The industry watches closely, anticipating how this meticulous revamp will redefine expectations for big-budget Telugu films.

BY CHRISTA LINCY

In a birthday celebration that doubled as a cinematic revelation, the makers of Salaar: Cease Fire – Part 1 and Kalki 2898 AD chose the occasion of Prabhas’ special day to unveil the much-anticipated sequels to both franchises, sending waves of excitement across fan communities and industry circles alike. Salaar, directed by Prashanth Neel and produced under the Hombale Films banner, had already made history with its high-octane action, gripping narrative, and Prabhas’ powerhouse performance, ultimately earning a staggering ₹617.75 crore worldwide, including ₹487.75 crore from India alone, as reported by Sacnilk. Its blend of raw intensity, strategic storytelling, and larger-than-life spectacle made it a standout among contemporary Indian action films, and with the sequel officially greenlit, fans can expect an even grander scale, more complex characters, and heightened drama that pushes the boundaries of franchise storytelling in Indian cinema. On the other side of the cinematic spectrum, Nag Ashwin’s visionary Kalki 2898 AD shattered expectations, redefining pan-India and global appeal with its fusion of science fiction, mythology, and high-concept world-building. Boasting a staggering ₹1,042.25 crore worldwide gross, including ₹767.25 crore from India according to Sacnilk, the film carved a permanent place in the annals of blockbuster filmmaking. Its futuristic landscapes, intricate production design, and ensemble cast featuring some of India’s most celebrated stars captivated audiences everywhere, setting a benchmark for storytelling ambition and visual grandeur. The sequel promises to expand this universe further, exploring uncharted narratives, introducing new characters, and continuing to blend technological marvels with mythological depth in ways rarely seen in Indian cinema. By announcing these sequels on Prabhas’ birthday, the makers have transformed a personal milestone into a larger celebration of his cinematic journey and pan-India stardom. These announcements signal more than just continuations of successful films—they mark the evolution of two ambitious universes, each with its own identity, fanbase, and creative vision. While Salaar will likely amplify the high-voltage, action-driven intensity that fans loved, Kalki 2898 AD is expected to push the boundaries of scale, spectacle, and imagination even further. Together, these projects underscore the growing trend of Indian franchises aiming for long-term narratives and global impact, and they reinforce Prabhas’ status as a defining figure of this era. For audiences, the message is clear: two epic cinematic worlds are poised to expand, promising unparalleled storytelling, larger-than-life characters, and experiences that will redefine what it means to be a blockbuster in India today.

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Mumbai, October 23 - Aneet Padda shot to nationwide fame after the mega blockbuster success of Yash Raj Films' Saiyaara, which marked her memorable debut. It didn't take long for the actress to land her second major role, after Maddock Films announced her as the face of its next horror comedy film, Shakti Shalini. Touted as the biggest role yet, the actress replaced Kiara Advani to headline the upcoming film, which is set to release on December 24, 2026. Amar Kaushik, the architect behind Maddock Horror Comedy Universe and the mentor of the universe, explained how Padda came on board as the lead of such a big project. "When we were writing the script, we realised that we needed a younger actor. Meanwhile, we saw her film Saiyaara and realised that she suits the part perfectly for that character. She heard the story and came on board", Kaushik said in an interview with Bollywood Hungama. The director of Shakit Shalini is not locked yet, as the makers are still in discussion. There are rumours that either Kaushik or Thamma fame Aditya Sarpotdar will helm the project, but nothing is confirmed yet. Meanwhile, Kaushik confirmed that the film will go on floors in January 2026. Shakti Shalini will be the only release in Maddock's Horror Comedy Universe, as Amar Kaushik said that they don't want an overdose of MHCU films. "We feel that there should not be an overdose, and we should not give too many films in a short period. Hence, as of now, the plan is to only bring Shakti Shalini next year", he said. Stay tuned...

BY CHRISTA LINCY

Grammy-winning artist Miley Cyrus has announced her contribution to the upcoming film Avatar: Fire and Ash, revealing that she has written and performed an original song for the movie's soundtrack. Collaborating with renowned musicians Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt, Cyrus shared her excitement and personal connection to the project through a heartfelt post on X. In her message, Cyrus expressed her honor in supporting the film with an original song she co-wrote with Ronson and Wyatt. She highlighted the profound personal significance of the project, stating, "Having been personally affected by fire and being rebuilt from the ashes, this project holds profound meaning for me." Cyrus emphasized that the film's themes of unity, healing, and love resonate deeply within her, and she expressed gratitude to director James Cameron for the opportunity to transform her experiences into "musical medicine" The song, titled "Dream as One," is set to be released on November 14, 2025, and will feature in the film's end credits. The track is described as a deeply emotional ballad that captures the essence of the film's narrative, which explores themes of unity, healing, and love. Cyrus's involvement adds a personal and emotional layer to the cinematic experience, enhancing the film's exploration of resilience and transformation. Avatar: Fire and Ash is the third installment in James Cameron's Avatar franchise, continuing the epic saga set on the alien world of Pandora. The film is scheduled for release on December 19, 2025, and is expected to further expand the rich universe introduced in the previous films.Cyrus's contribution to the film's soundtrack marks a significant moment in her musical career, showcasing her ability to blend personal experiences with her artistic expression. Her collaboration with Ronson and Wyatt brings a unique sound to the film, promising to resonate with audiences worldwide. Fans eagerly await the release of "Dream as One," anticipating how Cyrus's heartfelt composition will complement the visual and emotional depth of Avatar: Fire and Ash. As the film's release date approaches, the excitement surrounding both the movie and its soundtrack continues to build, promising a memorable cinematic experience.

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Mumbai, October 23: Rishab Shetty's mega blockbuster Kantara Chapter 1 is set to enter the 200 crores net club at the Hindi box office in the coming days as it continues its glorious march, showing remarkable resilience. Despite new competition from Bollywood Diwali releases, the period action drama has managed to hold its ground strongly across the northern circuits. After two weeks of consistent performance, Kantara Chapter 1 faced competition from Thamma and Deewaniyat during the Diwali festive week. Yet, the Hindi-dubbed version of the film remained strong, scoring approximately 26 crores net from the third Friday to Wednesday. In 21 days so far, the film has scored approximately 189 crore net in Hindi and is inching towards the coveted 200 crore milestone. The film's positive word-of-mouth and devotional storytelling have contributed to its sustained success across regions. In multiplexes and single screens alike, Kantara Chapter 1 continues to draw crowds, with minimal drops even during weekdays. The film's blend of spirituality, folklore, and raw action has struck a universal chord with audiences across languages. Kantara 2 will become only the second Kannada movie after KGF 2 to reach 200 crores net in Hindi. With this feat, Rishab Shetty has reaffirmed his status as one of the most formidable creative forces in Indian cinema. The film has already surpassed the lifetime Hindi collections of several major pan-India titles, including 2.0, which minted around 188 crores net. Meanwhile, the blockbuster prequel is heading towards the 800 crores milestone at the worldwide box office and has become the biggest Indian grosser of the year. It has grossed over 770 crores after 21 days, and will become the biggest grosser of 2025 during the 4th weekend. Stay tuned...

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Hyderabad, October 23 — Pan India superstar Prabhas' highly-awaited period action drama with director Hanu Raghavapudi, has officially been titled Fauzi. The announcement, made on October 23 on Prabhas' birthday, has taken the internet by storm. Presented by Gulshan Kumar and T-Series Films in association with Mythri Movie Makers, the Fauzi marks a powerful collaboration between the Sita Ramam director Hanu Raghavapudi and the pan-India superstar. The first look poster exudes intensity and patriotism — half of Prabhas' face dominates the frame, his fierce eyes conveying grit and defiance. Draped beside him is a burning British flag, symbolising resistance against colonial rule. The tagline, "A Battalion Who Fights Alone," hints at a tale of bravery, sacrifice, and solitary struggle set against the backdrop of 1940s colonial India. The film's title, Fauzi, meaning soldier, aptly captures its essence — a warrior's journey in a time when loyalty and rebellion collided. The visual tone and fiery textures suggest a blend of historical drama and action, promising an epic-scale narrative. Produced by Naveen Yerneni, Y Ravi Shankar, and Bhushan Kumar, the film is poised to be one of the most ambitious period dramas in Indian cinema. The credits reveal a strong technical team, with Vishal Chandrashekhar handling the music and PS Vinod on cinematography. Fauzi — A story set in 1940s colonial India, also stars Imani in her debut alongside Mithun Chakraborty, Anupam Kher and Jaya Parda in prominent roles. The film is reportedly slated for a multilingual release in Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam in August 2026. पद्मव्यूह विजयी पार्थःपाण्डवपक्षे संस्थित कर्णः।गुरुविरहितः एकलव्यःजन्मनैव च योद्धा एषः॥#PrabhasHanu is #FAUZI ❤‍🔥The bravest tale of a soldier from the hidden chapters of our history 🔥Happy Birthday, Rebel Star #Prabhas ❤️#HappyBirthdayFAUZI#HappyBirthdayPRABHAS… pic.twitter.com/R7hjLRSFfF— Mythri Movie Makers (@MythriOfficial) October 23, 2025 Stay tuned...

BY CHRISTA LINCY

Malayalam cinema’s beloved star Mohanlal is all set to don the khaki once again in his upcoming film L365, directed by debutant Austin Dan Thomas and produced by Ashiq Usman under his home banner. The film’s announcement, accompanied by an intriguing first-look poster showing a police uniform hanging in a washroom, has already sparked excitement among fans, hinting that Mohanlal will be returning to one of his most iconic on-screen personas—a police officer. The project is scripted by Retheesh Ravi, known for crafting engaging and emotionally layered screenplays, raising expectations for a gripping mix of action, emotion, and entertainment. Reports suggest that L365 could be a cop-based action thriller or a cop-comedy, offering Mohanlal an opportunity to blend his trademark intensity with his effortless charm and humor. The title itself—L365—has become a talking point among fans, with many speculating that it could symbolize a story that unfolds over the course of a year or explore the life of a cop dealing with daily challenges, symbolizing 365 days of duty and dedication. Director Austin Dan Thomas, who steps into filmmaking after his stint as an actor and associate director, is expected to bring a fresh perspective and youthful energy to the narrative, while Ashiq Usman’s production house, known for backing quality and commercially strong projects, ensures that the film will be mounted on a solid scale. Currently, Mohanlal is busy shooting for Drishyam 3, the much-awaited continuation of the hit thriller series directed by Jeethu Joseph, which began filming in October 2025. Once the Drishyam 3 schedule wraps up, he is expected to begin work on L365. This collaboration between a seasoned superstar and a first-time director has already generated significant buzz across social media, especially since Mohanlal’s cop roles—from Baba Kalyani to Grandmaster—have left a lasting mark on audiences. Though the makers have kept the storyline tightly under wraps, the film promises an engaging mix of drama, suspense, and human emotion. With Mohanlal’s charisma at the center, L365 looks poised to be one of the most awaited Malayalam films of the coming year, blending nostalgia, novelty, and the timeless appeal of a star who continues to redefine versatility with every new role.

BY CHRISTA LINCY

The beloved 2001 Tamil blockbuster Friends, starring Vijay and Suriya, is all set to return to theaters in a fully remastered 4K version on November 21, 2025. Directed by Siddique, the film is remembered for its perfect blend of humor, emotion, and the iconic camaraderie between its lead actors, with Vadivelu's portrayal of 'Nesamani' remaining a fan favorite. This re-release, coming 24 years after the original debut, aims to rekindle nostalgia among longtime fans while introducing the classic to a new generation. The timing is particularly exciting as it leads into the Pongal 2026 season, where both Vijay and Suriya are set to clash at the box office with their respective films — Vijay's Jana Nayagan, directed by H. Vinoth, and Suriya's Karuppu, directed by RJ Balaji. Jana Nayagan is scheduled for a January 9 release and has generated immense anticipation, reportedly featuring cameo appearances from directors Lokesh Kanagaraj, Atlee, and Nelson Dilipkumar as a tribute to Vijay’s cinematic journey. Meanwhile, Karuppu, initially slated for Diwali 2025, will now release during Pongal 2026, promising a rural-themed role for Suriya. The 4K re-release of Friends not only celebrates the film’s original box-office success but also offers audiences an opportunity to experience its timeless charm in enhanced visual and audio quality, setting the stage for an exciting festive season and a nostalgic trip down memory lane for fans of Tamil cinema.

BY CHRISTA LINCY

A powerful collaboration is once again on the horizon in Tamil cinema — Vishal and Sundar C are set to reunite for a new film that’s expected to go on floors in late 2026. Reported by The Times of India as a “blockbuster reunion,” the project has already generated major buzz among fans, promising another large-scale entertainer from the successful actor–director duo.Vishal is currently busy wrapping up his next action drama Magudam, which is nearing completion. The film has created strong anticipation among fans, and once Vishal completes his promotional commitments for Magudam, he is expected to move straight into the new Sundar C project. Meanwhile, Sundar C is actively engaged with Mookuthi Amman 2, the sequel to his 2020 fantasy-comedy hit. The film stars Nayanthara in dual roles and features Duniya Vijay as the antagonist. The shooting has recently wrapped up, and the film is slated for a 2025 release, with music composed by Hiphop Tamizha Aadhi. Following the completion of this project, Sundar C is expected to commence work on his next venture with Vishal. This reunion marks the duo’s second major collaboration after Madha Gaja Raja, which was filmed in 2012 but faced multiple production and release hurdles before finally hitting theatres in 2024. Despite the 12-year delay, the film opened to positive audience response and went on to become a box-office hit, showcasing the timeless appeal of Sundar C’s commercial direction paired with Vishal’s charisma.The success of Madha Gaja Raja, even after its delayed release, has amplified expectations for their next outing. Fans are eager to see how the pair will bring fresh energy and scale to this new venture. The shooting for the new Vishal–Sundar C project is expected to commence in late 2026, once both stars complete their current commitments. The film is being crafted as a mass commercial entertainer, promising to blend Sundar C’s signature humor with high-energy action sequences. Further details, including the full cast, production banner, and music composer, are yet to be officially announced and are expected to be revealed in the coming months.Given their previous success and the buzz surrounding their reunion, this project has quickly become one of the most anticipated Tamil films on the horizon. Fans believe that the Vishal–Sundar C combination has all the makings of a full-fledged entertainer that could once again strike gold at the box office. As both continue wrapping up their respective current films, the industry now eagerly awaits official confirmation and the first look of what’s shaping up to be one of Kollywood’s biggest collaborations of 2026.

BY CHRISTA LINCY

After an impressive theatrical journey, Pawan Kalyan’s action-gangster drama They Call Him OG is gearing up for its digital debut. The film, directed by Sujeeth and produced by DVV Entertainment, will begin streaming on Netflix from October 23, 2025, just under a month after its grand theatrical release. Released on September 25, 2025, They Call Him OG opened to massive anticipation, marking Pawan Kalyan’s return to the big screen in a stylish and intense role as “Ojas Gambheera,” a gangster with a code of his own. The movie was released across five languages — Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, and Hindi — and quickly established itself as one of the highest-grossing South Indian films of the year. The film’s India net collection reached approximately ₹ 191.5 Cr, while the worldwide gross is reported to be around ₹ 293.65 Cr, making it one of Pawan Kalyan’s top-performing films. The film’s initial occupancy rates were particularly strong in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, where single screens reported near-houseful shows during the opening weekend.The combination of Pawan Kalyan’s charisma, Emraan Hashmi’s menacing debut in Telugu cinema, and Sujeeth’s sleek direction contributed to the film’s strong audience pull. Fans praised the blend of high-octane action, emotional drama, and Thaman’s powerful background score. After nearly four weeks in theatres, They Call Him OG will now make its OTT premiere on Netflix on October 23, 2025. The film will be available in Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Kannada, and Malayalam, offering wider accessibility for pan-Indian audiences.This move comes as part of a growing trend in Indian cinema, where producers are opting for shorter theatrical-to-digital windows to sustain viewership momentum. The film’s relatively swift transition to OTT — just four weeks after release — underscores the changing dynamics of film distribution in the South Indian film industry. Traditionally, big-budget star vehicles would enjoy at least six to eight weeks of exclusive theatrical screening before heading to streaming platforms.However, the landscape is rapidly evolving. Producers are now adopting hybrid release models to capture audiences across multiple formats. This strategy allows films to maximize both theatrical earnings and digital viewership, keeping them relevant in the conversation even after box office revenue begins to taper off. For streaming giants like Netflix, acquiring such high-profile South Indian titles early helps boost regional subscriber engagement, while for filmmakers, it ensures the movie reaches a broader global audience.In the case of They Call Him OG, the timing aligns perfectly — the film closes its successful theatrical run while maintaining the excitement for its digital release, offering fans another chance to experience the stylish gangster drama from the comfort of their homes. They Call Him OG stands as a testament to Pawan Kalyan’s enduring screen power and Sujeeth’s ability to craft commercially potent cinema with visual flair. With its upcoming Netflix premiere, the film is poised to reach an even wider audience, marking a fitting continuation of its box-office success story.

BY SUNIT JANGIR

Mumbai, October 22 — Harshvardhan Rane and Sonam Bajwa's romantic drama Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat is emerging as one of the biggest surprises of the year at the box office. After taking a better-than-expected start, the film is holding impressively well on its second day, showing that audience word of mouth is turning in its favour, while having the festive advantage. As per early estimates, Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat has collected around 7–8 crores net on Day 2, following its solid 9 crores net opening day. This takes its two-day total to approximately 16+ crores net, a strong result for a film with limited pre-release buzz and no major star power. The festive advantage continues to boost the collections, but more importantly, the film seems to be benefiting from positive audience feedback, especially among younger viewers and in tier-2 cities. The romantic drama's intense storyline and soulful music have reportedly struck a chord with its target audience. With a stable second day and encouraging trends across mass belts and multiplex chains, Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat is now well-positioned for a strong weekend. If the word of mouth continues to hold, it could emerge as a sleeper hit of the season. Stay tuned...