Sizzling Samachar: Netflix offers free access to Oscar-Nominated animated film ‘Nimona’ following critical acclaim; ‘Anyone But You’ lands on Digital Platforms, bringing romantic comedy bliss home

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

Sony's "Madame Web" faces colossal Box Office failure, shattering future Superhero plans

Sony grapples with a major setback as its latest superhero film, Madame Web, starring Dakota Johnson, disappointingly garners a mere $52 million during its Valentine's Day opening weekend. Despite ambitious plans to introduce characters like Julia Carpenter, Anya Corazon, and Mattie Franklin for potential sequels, the movie emerges as one of the most considerable superhero flops. This poor reception signals a potential hiatus for any further exploration of the clairvoyant superhero, with insiders anticipating a prolonged absence of Madame Web from the big screen. Sony now pins its hopes on upcoming releases like Kraven the Hunter and Venom 3 to recalibrate its superhero aspirations in an ever-evolving cinematic landscape.

Netflix offers free access to Oscar-Nominated animated film ‘Nimona’ following critical acclaim

Netflix has made its animated feature Nimona available for free on its YouTube channel, allowing viewers to enjoy the entire movie without a subscription. The film, directed by Nick Bruno and Troy Quane and starring Chloë Grace Moretz and Riz Ahmed, has garnered critical acclaim and received an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature. Nimona follows the titular character, voiced by Moretz, as she assists Ballister Boldheart (Ahmed) in navigating a complex situation, accused of killing Queen Valerin (Lorraine Toussaint). The movie offers an unpredictable adventure with powerful themes and impressive animation. Although initially in development at Disney, the project found a home with Netflix, providing audiences with a chance to delve into the unique journey of Nimona and her friendship with Ballister.

‘Anyone But You’ lands on Digital Platforms, bringing romantic comedy bliss home

Prepare for a heartwarming stay-at-home date night as the surprise romantic comedy hit of 2023, Anyone but You, arrives on digital platforms tomorrow. Despite a slow start at the box office, the film, starring Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell, emerged as a sleeper hit, grossing an impressive $189 million globally. While critics offered mixed reviews, audiences embraced this modern Shakespeare adaptation, making it one of the highest-grossing R-rated rom-coms in a decade. The story revolves around Bea and Ben, whose fiery attraction cools after an unforgettable first date, only to be unexpectedly reunited at a destination wedding in Australia. As they navigate their complicated feelings, the film delivers a delightful blend of romance and humour. Don't miss the chance to bring home the magic of Anyone but You digitally starting tomorrow.

‘Shirley’ trailer unveils Regina King as Pioneering Congresswoman

Netflix has released the trailer for Shirley, featuring Regina King's compelling portrayal of Shirley Chisholm, the first Black congresswoman in U.S. history. Directed by John Ridley, the film explores Chisholm's relentless optimism and ambitious pursuit not only of a congressional seat but also of the presidency, challenging the discrimination she faced in a predominantly white political landscape. The trailer highlights King's portrayal as a resilient optimist during a challenging era, emphasizing Chisholm's groundbreaking journey and her commitment to holding politicians accountable. Scheduled to premiere on March 22, Shirley promises a thought-provoking narrative that sheds light on a pivotal figure in American political history.

‘Blade Runner 2099’ to commence filming this Spring on Prime Video

Prime Video is set to begin shooting Blade Runner 2099 in April, expanding the iconic Blade Runner universe beyond the events of Blade Runner 2049. The series, produced by Ridley Scott, Silka Luisa, and Michael Green, will delve into the future of the Blade Runner universe, unfolding decades after the occurrences in the 2049 instalment. Originally slated to be directed by Jeremy Podeswa, scheduling conflicts led to his departure, with Jonathan van Tulleken now helming the initial two episodes. While plot details remain under wraps, the series promises new characters and mysteries, marking a highly anticipated return to the dystopian world. The upcoming production reflects Prime Video's commitment to the long-anticipated project, offering fans a new chapter in the Blade Runner saga.

D50 renamed ‘Raayan’: Dhanush unveils menacing poster

Dhanush, in a significant cinematic move, has renamed his much-anticipated 50th film as Raayan and shared a striking poster on social media. The intense visual showcases Dhanush, donned in a bloodied apron, wielding a sharp knife-like object, set against the backdrop of what seems to be a food truck. Alongside him, Kalidas Jayaram and Sundeep Kishan, both holding knives, add to the suspense of the narrative. Directed by Dhanush himself, Raayan promises to be an intense actioner, marking the actor's return to both acting and directing. His nearly bald appearance in the poster hints at a transformative role, intriguing fans about the milestone film. With music by A R Rahman, cinematography by Om Prakash, and editing by Prasanna GK, Raayan is poised to be a pivotal project in Dhanush's illustrious career, and anticipation is high among fans for more details as the film progresses.

Chiyaan Vikram's ‘Thangalaan’ to unearth the origins of 'Sone Ki Chidiya' title

In a cinematic exploration set against the 19th Century, Chiyaan Vikram's upcoming film Thangalaan promises to unveil the historical significance behind India being referred to as Sone Ki Chidiya (Golden Bird). The movie, directed by Pa Ranjith, delves into the real-life struggles during the British Raj, specifically revolving around the Kolar Gold Fields (KGF). As one of the world's largest gold mines, KGF played a pivotal role in India's association with wealth. Thangalaan aims to bridge the gap of historical awareness, focusing on the exploitation of KGF by the British, who shipped over 900 tonnes of gold to England. The film is a period-action drama depicting the courageous efforts of KGF residents in resisting British dominance. Scheduled for an April 2024 release, Thangalaan boasts a stellar cast, including Pasupathy, Parvathy Thiruvothu, Malavika Mohanan, and Hollywood actor Daniel Caltagirone, promising a gripping narrative backed by GV Prakash Kumar's musical composition.

Megastars Ram Charan and Salman Khan set to unveil ‘Operation Valentine's’ Trailer

In a star-studded event, the highly anticipated trailer of Varun Tej and Manushi Chillar starrer Operation Valentine is set to be launched digitally on February 20. The makers have enlisted the presence of Bollywood superstar Salman Khan and Telugu megastar Ram Charan to unveil the trailer in Hindi and Telugu, respectively. This patriotic thriller, inspired by India's response to the Pulwama attacks, promises gripping aerial action sequences. Varun Tej, essaying the role of an IAF officer, expresses pride in portraying such a challenging character and emphasizes the extensive research done to ensure authenticity. The trailer launch, slated for a dual-language release on March 1, marks a significant step in promoting the film's adrenaline-pumping narrative and high-octane action. Produced by Sony Pictures International Productions, Renaissance Pictures, and God Bless Entertainment, Operation Valentine is directed by Shakti Pratap Singh Hada, making his directorial debut.

Kiara Advani secures lead role in ‘Don 3’ with official announcement tomorrow

In a significant development, it's reported that Kiara Advani has landed a pivotal role in the much-anticipated film Don 3, starring Ranveer Singh. Director Farhan Akhtar sees Kiara as the ideal fit for the role, anticipating a fresh dynamic in her collaboration with Ranveer Singh. Known for her versatility in romantic, intense, and comic genres, Advani is set to make her mark in the action genre with Don 3 and the upcoming film War 2, alongside Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR. The official confirmation of Kiara Advani's role in Don 3 is scheduled for tomorrow, as hinted by Farhan Akhtar in an Instagram story. This revelation adds to the anticipation surrounding the already highly awaited action franchise. With her inclusion in these action-packed projects, Kiara aims to solidify her position as a versatile and sought-after actress.

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

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• Written by Apurva Dutta