STREAMING SUCCESS
The competition for the Best Web Series Award at the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) is heating up, with Netflix leading the pack with two nominations. The category, now in its second year, has seen a 40% increase in submissions from 10 major streaming platforms.
Netflix’s contenders include “Kota Factory,” a series that delves into India’s intense academic coaching culture, and “Kala Pani,” a gripping survival drama set in the Andaman Islands. Prime Video has entered the race with “Jubilee,” a period piece that explores the golden age of Indian cinema, while ZEE5 brings “Ayali,” a contemporary drama focusing on women’s lives in traditional society. SonyLIV’s nomination, “Lampan,” is a rural coming-of-age narrative directed by Nipun Dharmadhikari.
MUSCLE MAN
Producer Sajid Nadiadwala has announced the release date for “Baaghi 4” as September 5, 2025, with Tiger Shroff reprising his role in the action-packed franchise. The film will be directed by A. Harsha, known for his work on “Bajrangi” and “Veda.” The “Baaghi” series has garnered $60 million worldwide across three films, solidifying Shroff’s position as one of Bollywood’s rising stars.
The release of “Baaghi 4” marks a significant milestone for Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment, celebrating their 75th anniversary with a lineup that includes “Sikandar” starring Salman Khan, “Housefull 5,” and an untitled project with Shahid Kapoor and Triptii Dimri directed by Vishal Bhardwaj.
Production on “Baaghi 4” has already commenced this week, promising fans an adrenaline-fueled cinematic experience.
POLITICAL POWERPLAY
Kangana Ranaut’s “Emergency,” a film depicting the political turmoil of India in the 1970s, is set to hit theaters on January 17, 2025. The movie, directed, written, and starring Ranaut as former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, has faced challenges during the censor board approval process. The cast includes Anupam Kher, Mahima Chaudhary, Milind Soman, and features one of the final performances of the late Satish Kaushik. Produced by Zee Studios and Manikarnika Films, “Emergency” has a score by Sanchit Balhara and G.V. Prakash Kumar, with co-writing credits going to Ritesh Shah.
