Sizzling Samachar: Comedy actor Zach Galifianakis joins the cast of ‘Only Murders in The Building’ Season 4; ‘Invincible 3’ into production ahead of the release of the second half of Season 2

Welcome to Sizzling Samachar, your daily dose of entertainment news. I'm your host Nikhil. News first from Hollywood.

Illumination officially announces the long-anticipated sequel to ‘The Super Mario Bros.’ movie

Nintendo game director Shigeru Miyamoto, alongside Illumination's Chris Meledandri, has officially announced the long-anticipated sequel to The Super Mario Bros. movie, scheduled for release on April 3, 2026. The ensemble cast, featuring Chris Pratt, Charlie Day, Anya Taylor-Joy, Jack Black, and Seth Rogen, is expected to reprise their roles. In the first film Mario played by Chris Pratt and his brother Luigi played by Charlie Day, transition from Brooklyn plumbers to Mushroom Kingdom heroes through a mystical pipe. Details about the plot of the sequel film remains under wraps but Chris Prat hints at the post-credits’ scene unveiling Mario's dinosaur companion Yoshi, suggesting a potential journey to Yoshi's Island from based on the game Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island

Comedy actor Zach Galifianakis joins the cast of ‘Only Murders in The Building’ Season 4

Zach Galifianakis, The Hangover actor, has joined the star-studded cast of Only Murders in The Building season four. This announcement follows the recent inclusion of Eugene Levy and Meryl Streep, who will reprise her role from the third season. According to sources, Galifianakis will have a recurring part in the murder mystery comedy series, starring Eva Longoria, Molly Shannon, Eugene Levy, and Kumail Nanjiani alongside Steve Martin, Martin Short, Selena Gomez. Currently, little is known about the plot of the new season. Galifianakis' eclectic comedic experience, combined with his role as the lead in FX's Baskets, heightens interest for the show, which is still in development.

‘Invincible 3’ into production ahead of the release of the second half of Season 2

Given the high acclaim of the second half of Season 2, the Invincible team is already into production for season 3. With lead actor Steven Yeun confirming the ongoing efforts, Season 3, set to release in a timely fashion, promises to expand the narrative beyond Earth's confines. As Mark Grayson's journey unfolds, he grapples with his father's legacy and faces the looming threat of the Viltrumite empire. The streamlined production process ensures a quicker release, fulfilling creator Robert Kirkman's commitment to shorter waits between seasons. With high stakes and a stellar cast, including Yeun, J.K. Simmons, and Sterling K. Brown, the Invincible saga continues to captivate audiences.

Tom Hiddleston and Claire Danes team up for Apple TV+’s steamy Gothic Romance

Claire Danes, popular as the Emmy-award winner for her stellar performance in the show, Homeland joins Tom Hiddleston in Apple TV+’s The Essex Serpent. The series adapted from Sarah Perry's novel, weaves a tapestry of forbidden love, religious propaganda, Darwinism, self-discovery, and domestic abuse. Danes, as the widowed Cora Seaborne, explores the marshlands of Essex to investigate a mythical serpent, leading to a passionate love affair with Hiddleston's Vicar Will Ransome. The thematic richness extends beyond their romance, touching on societal restrictions and the complexity of female characters. With atmospheric visuals and nuanced storytelling, The Essex Serpent emerges as a standout in Apple TV+'s repertoire.

Jesse Eisenberg hints at his “desperation” for filming Now You See Me 3

After a seven-year development limbo, Now You See Me 3 is finally gaining momentum. Lionsgate has announced that production is set to begin in the spring, with director Ruben Fleischer, known for Venom, attached to the project. Despite several changes in the plot due to different writers coming on board, the film is now on track for realisation. Jesse Eisenberg, who plays J. Daniel Atlas in the franchise, has expressed a strong desire to reprise his role, stating that he feels a deep connection to the character and is "desperate" to work alongside the talented cast, including Woody Harrelson, Morgan Freeman, Mark Ruffalo, Isla Fisher, Dave Franco, Lizzy Caplan, Daniel Radcliffe, and more.

Aanand L Rai overcomes initial hesitation, dives into OTT for debut

Acclaimed director, Aanand L Rai is set to make his debut into the OTT world given his keen interest on adding different content to the plethora of existing thriller repertoire on OTT. Known for his exceptional work in hit movies, Tanu weds Manu and Raanjhanaa, Rai shows his interest in delving into themes of love and drama on OTT expected for a release this year. Apart from his OTT venture, Rai has a busy year ahead, directing Tere Ishq Mein, a film reuniting him with actor Dhanush. The film explores the complexities of love and rage. Rai is also celebrating the success of his recent production, the Marathi film Jhimma 2, which emerged as one of the biggest hits of 2023.

‘The Goat Life’ trailer reveals Prithviraj Sukumaran's incredible transformation

Prithviraj Sukumaran's incredible transformation takes centre stage in the trailer for The Goat Life,  also titled Aadujeevitham, directed by Blessy. The film follows the real-life journey of Najeeb, played by Prithviraj Sukumaran, as he faces challenges in search of a better life. The visually stunning trailer showcases a glimpse into the unique survival adventure inspired by the Malayalam novel "Aadujeevitham." Director Blessy emphasises the film's exceptional nature, with truth being stranger than fiction. Prithviraj Sukumaran reflects on the film's decade-long journey, calling it more than just a movie but a deeply touching story. Set to release on March 28, 2024, in multiple languages, the film promises an enthralling cinematic experience.

A night at the Oscars: Highlights celebrating iconic wins

The 96th Academy Awards celebrated Oppenheimer's triumph with seven wins, including Best Picture, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. Cillian Murphy secured Best Actor for his role in the blockbuster biographical drama, while Emma Stone won Best Actress for Poor Things. Christopher Nolan finally earned Best Director after eight nominations, while Oppenheimer star Robert Downey Jr. and The Holdovers actress Da'Vine Joy Randolph also claimed top honours for Best Supporting Actor and Actress, respectively. The star-studded event, hosted by Jimmy Kimmel, witnessed historic moments like Billie Eilish and Finneas becoming the youngest two-time winners for Best Song.

Well that's all we got for this episode, until the next time it's your host Nikhil signing out.

Aaj kya dekhoge OTTplay se poocho

• Written by Apurva Dutta

Listen to more OTTplay Sizzling Samachar of the Day podcasts on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.