film 5 - The Latremie Post

What’s so bad about Bollywood?

What, then, is Seth Rogen’s role in *The Studio* (2025, Apple TV), if not Larry, in his own unique way? Consider the sixth episode of this sensational series, where Seth, playing the beta studio boss, finds himself stuck at a party among serious doctors—none of whom can fathom the significance of movies. Yet, Seth’s character is unequivocally obsessed! This obsession resonates not just in Hollywood but Bollywood as well.

I personally try not to mix my friends between these two worlds. One group eventually grows bored through the evening. Incidentally, Shah Rukh Khan’s (SRK) production house, Red Chillies, produced a film that comes quite close to *Curb Your Enthusiasm* in tone: *Kaamyaab* (2019). It’s a sheer slice of showbiz low life, carried entirely on the superb shoulders of Sanjay Mishra, who plays a retired character actor remembered for one memorable line: “Enjoying life. Aur option kya hai!”

What about SRK’s Red Chillies series for Netflix, *The B***ds of Bollywood* (read: *Bads of Bollywood*), set in Mumbai’s movie and entertainment industry? Sure, there could be echoes of *Curb Your Enthusiasm*, even elements of *Entourage*, but it’s more so the filminess of Farah Khan (*Om Shanti Om*), blended with the edginess and empathy of Zoya Akhtar (*Luck By Chance*). This series stands tall as a fully fun, silly, and unpretentious entertainment piece that often switches and plays with genres, mostly staying within over-the-top humor.

Setting a Hindi cinema-based show is challenging. Shows often end up unbearably superficial (*Call My Agent: Bollywood*) or merely a spoof of spoofs (Emraan Hashmi’s *Showtime*). What I loved first about *Bads of Bollywood* was that it isn’t about a tragic struggler—a term reserved only for aspiring actors. Nor does it dwell on the often-boring inner workings of the movie industry, which lay viewers generally don’t care about.

As for the drama of aspiring actors facing rejection and poverty, frankly, aren’t we all tired of hearing famous folks’ sob stories about eking out a living, skipping meals, or sleeping on pavements? They were chasing a personal dream, so why should it merit any special social purpose? Or acting as if the world owes aspiring actors more than it owes a broke telemarketer?

*Bads of Bollywood* opens with its protagonist, Lakshya Lalwani, already a star—albeit a debutant, from Delhi, stepping into Mumbai’s film world, a parallel many would draw to SRK himself. He visits a single-screen theater to catch his first film, only to exit the cinema with the public tearing his clothes off—a scene straight out of Hrithik Roshan’s life.

What follows is a story about how you never really make it. The struggles continue; only the stakes differ. Life takes over. The hero and heroine (Sahher Bambba) first meet at an actors’ roundtable (think Siddhant Chaturvedi), and then again at the duty-free shop of a domestic airport. The cast includes the hero’s jobless best friend (Raghav Juyal), mother (Mona Singh), uncle (Manoj Pahwa), and girlfriend’s father (Bobby Deol). Unlike caricatures in typical comedy, all actors play their parts seriously.

*Bads* unfolds like a mainstream, retro Bollywood picture in its own right—but with Bollywood as the setting. Bollywood itself is a culture: more liberal than the rest of India, less dull than any day job, full of professional daredevils without a Plan B, brimming with internal politics and external pressures.

The commentary feels a bit like stock market tips—it’s less about what’s said and more about who’s saying it. The creator of *Bads of Bollywood* is SRK’s son, Aryan Khan, 27, co-created by Bilal Siddiqi and Manav Chauhan. This adds a unique layer of meta-humor. Take the self-referencing scene—now surely a meme—where a narcotics sleuth nab a DJ (Neville Bharucha) for smoking up; the DJ protests, “But I’m not from Bollywood!” and is let go.

Aryan generously drops the “N-word” (nepotism) while taking potshots at his own father, calling him “Dhai Ghante ka Badshah!” For a first-timer, Aryan has filmed what he knows best, making this a sort of Zoya Akhtar-ian debut. Privilege, after all, is what you make of it.

Within *Bads of Bollywood*, you see the writer-director smartly weaving in top cameos only available to a superstar’s son: Aamir Khan, Arshad Warsi, Karan Johar, Emraan Hashmi, and more, fitting them like chess pieces into a proper plot. The resources are abundant, and this young creator is set free to play with all the toys, employing them effectively for movie-screen grandeur.

Left on its own terms, *Bads of Bollywood* has as much high-octane action as an average A-grade VFX actioner. Imagine *Fast & Furious* in Mumbai! Beyond the Lamborghinis, there’s a motorbike chase on the iconic Bandra-Worli Sea Link.

Did I expect this from a supposedly low-key parody on the film fraternity? Frankly, no. I also didn’t expect the *Game of Thrones*-like twist at the end, which cleverly reveals the asterisks in the series’ unusual title.

Like many viewers, that’s the last thing I loved about *Bads of Bollywood*. It’s that good!
https://www.mid-day.com/news/opinion/article/whats-so-bad-about-bollywood-23595505

Manoj Bajpayee On Whether He Believes In The Supernatural World, Jugnuma, Anurag Kashyap And More

**Jugnuma – The Fable: Manoj Bajpayee on the Mystical New Film**

*Jugnuma – The Fable*, starring Manoj Bajpayee and directed by Raam Reddy, is set in 1989 and tells the story of a family living in the hills whose peaceful life is disturbed by mysterious fires breaking out in their orchards. The film is currently running in theatres and features a talented cast including Priyanka Bose, Deepak Dobriyal, and Tillotama Shome.

There is a hint of mystical elements woven into the narrative, notably with Manoj Bajpayee’s character acquiring wings and flying off into the sky, adding a magical dimension to the story.

In an exclusive phone interview, Manoj Bajpayee shared insights about his involvement in the film, his thoughts on the supernatural, and more.

**How did you get associated with Jugnuma?**

Ram offered me the script, and when I read it, I was completely taken in by the unique world he created on paper. The story also touched on certain existential issues that resonated deeply with me, as I was personally searching for similar answers.

**What really made you say yes to the script? Was it Anurag, Guneet, Ram, or a combination of all three?**

Guneet came on board much later, after the film was completed. After watching it, she decided to be part of the project. Anurag saw the film in New York and immediately wanted to help take it as far as possible. However, during the making of the film, it was just Ram and me. I said yes because of Ram’s talent as a filmmaker and the script itself, which I found to be unique, mesmerizing, and magical.

**The mysterious fires and magical elements — is the story loosely based on any true incidents?**

I’m not entirely sure. Ram would be the best person to answer that. What I do know is that the inspiration came from reports of fires in jungles and mountains, which Ram then used as a springboard for his imaginative story.

**Do you believe there’s another world out there — a supernatural one?**

Sort of. Honestly, you’ll have to watch the film to really understand what it’s about. Personally, I do believe in God and in powers beyond our mental comprehension. Even though we can’t see these forces, there’s a reason why the natural world around us moves with such precision, almost like on autopilot. With our naked eyes, we perceive this presence through nature, but there has to be someone—or something—designing, protecting, and sometimes even devastating this world.

*Jugnuma – The Fable* promises to be a beautifully crafted narrative blending reality, mysticism, and human emotions. Don’t miss it in theatres now.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/manoj-bajpayee-on-whether-he-believes-in-the-supernatural-world-jugnuma-anurag-kashyap-and-more

The bold impact of ‘Norbit’ on American cinema

**The Bold Impact of ‘Norbit’ on American Cinema**
*By Vinita Jain | Sep 22, 2025, 05:45 PM*

**What’s the Story?**
*Norbit*, a 2007 comedy film starring Eddie Murphy, is often cited as a turning point in the evolution of American cinema. The film was both a commercial success and a subject of critical debate. While some lauded its bold storytelling and character exploration, others criticized it for its controversial themes. Here’s how *Norbit* impacted American cinema, for better or for worse.

**Murphy’s Transformative Roles**
In *Norbit*, Eddie Murphy’s ability to transform into multiple distinct characters was on full display. This versatility not only showcased his impressive range as an actor but also set a precedent for future films where actors take on multiple roles. Murphy’s dynamic performances were integral to the film’s success, demonstrating how one actor’s sheer talent and charisma can carry a film.

**Controversial Themes and Societal Impact**
The themes explored in *Norbit* sparked widespread discussion about societal norms and values. While some viewers appreciated the film’s willingness to tackle difficult and sensitive subjects, others felt it perpetuated stereotypes or missed the mark on important issues. This duality highlighted how cinema can serve both as a mirror reflecting society and as a mold shaping societal perceptions.

**Commercial Success vs. Critical Reception**
Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, *Norbit* proved to be a commercial hit, grossing over $160 million worldwide. Its box office performance underscored the idea that financial success does not always align with critical acclaim. This dynamic has fueled ongoing debates about what truly defines success in the film industry—monetary gain or artistic merit.

**Influence on Future Comedies**
*Norbit*’s unique blend of humor, character-driven storytelling, and bold themes has influenced a new generation of comedies. Filmmakers have drawn inspiration from its approach to character development and comedic timing, leading to films that skillfully balance humor with deeper narratives. The film’s legacy continues to shape how comedies are crafted today.

*Norbit* remains a fascinating case study in American cinema—a film that challenged conventions, sparked conversation, and left a lasting mark on the comedy genre.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/how-norbit-changed-the-face-of-us-cinema/story

The bold impact of ‘Norbit’ on American cinema

**The Bold Impact of ‘Norbit’ on American Cinema**
*By Vinita Jain | Sep 22, 2025, 05:45 PM*

**What’s the story?**
*Norbit*, a 2007 comedy film starring Eddie Murphy, is often cited as a turning point in the evolution of American cinema. The film was both a commercial success and a subject of critical debate. While some praised its bold storytelling and character exploration, others criticized it for its controversial themes. Here’s how *Norbit* impacted American cinema—for better or for worse.

**Murphy’s transformative roles**
In *Norbit*, Eddie Murphy’s ability to transform into multiple characters was on full display. This versatility not only showcased his range as an actor but also set a precedent for future films featuring actors in multiple roles. Murphy’s performances were integral to the film’s success and demonstrated how one actor’s talent and charisma can carry an entire movie.

**Controversial themes and societal impact**
The film’s themes sparked widespread discussion about societal norms and values. While some viewers appreciated its willingness to tackle difficult subjects head-on, others felt it perpetuated stereotypes or mishandled sensitive issues. This division highlighted cinema’s dual role as both a mirror reflecting society and a mold shaping perceptions.

**Commercial success vs. critical reception**
Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, *Norbit* proved to be a commercial hit, grossing over $160 million worldwide. Its box office success underscored the fact that a film’s financial performance doesn’t always align with critical acclaim. This ongoing tension continues to fuel debates about what truly defines success in the film industry—monetary gain or artistic merit.

**Influence on future comedies**
*Norbit*’s unique blend of humor, character-driven storytelling, and bold themes has had a lasting influence on subsequent comedy films. Many filmmakers have drawn inspiration from its approach to character development and comedic timing, contributing to a new wave of comedies that balance laughter with more nuanced narratives. The film’s legacy remains evident in how comedies are crafted today.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/how-norbit-changed-the-face-of-us-cinema/story

The bold impact of ‘Norbit’ on American cinema

**The Bold Impact of ‘Norbit’ on American Cinema**
*By Vinita Jain | Sep 22, 2025, 05:45 pm*

**What’s the story?**

*Norbit*, a 2007 comedy film starring Eddie Murphy, is often cited as a turning point in the evolution of American cinema. The film was both a commercial success and the subject of critical debate. While some praised its bold storytelling and character exploration, others criticized it for its controversial themes. Here’s a closer look at how *Norbit* impacted American cinema, for better or for worse.

**1. Murphy’s Transformative Roles**

In *Norbit*, Eddie Murphy’s ability to transform into different characters was on full display. This versatility not only showcased his range as an actor but also set a precedent for future films where actors take on multiple roles. Murphy’s performances were integral to the film’s success, demonstrating how one actor could carry a movie through sheer talent and charisma.

**2. Controversial Themes and Societal Impact**

The themes explored in *Norbit* sparked widespread discussion about societal norms and values. While some viewers appreciated the film’s willingness to tackle difficult subjects, others felt it perpetuated stereotypes or mishandled sensitive issues. This duality highlighted how cinema can serve as both a mirror and a mold for societal perceptions.

**3. Commercial Success vs. Critical Reception**

Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, *Norbit* was a commercial hit, grossing over $160 million worldwide. Its box office performance underscored the idea that a film’s financial success doesn’t always align with critical acclaim. This dynamic has fueled ongoing conversations about what truly defines success in the film industry — monetary gain or artistic merit.

**4. Influence on Future Comedies**

*Norbit*’s unique blend of humor, character-driven storytelling, and bold themes has influenced many subsequent comedies. Filmmakers have drawn inspiration from its approach to character development and comedic timing, leading to a new wave of films that skillfully balance humor with deeper narratives. The movie’s legacy continues to shape how comedies are crafted today.

—

*Norbit* remains a significant, if polarizing, milestone in American cinema, exemplifying how film can simultaneously entertain, challenge, and provoke important conversations.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/how-norbit-changed-the-face-of-us-cinema/story

Harrison Ford’s most iconic roles that shaped Hollywood

Harrison Ford’s Most Iconic Roles That Shaped Hollywood

By Vinita Jain | Sep 22, 2025, 05:28 pm

Harrison Ford, a name synonymous with iconic roles, has been a major contributor to American cinema for decades. From adventurous archaeologists to space-faring smugglers, Ford’s characters have left an indelible mark on film history. This article takes a look at some of his most memorable performances and how they shaped the cinematic landscape.

Indiana Jones: The Adventurous Archaeologist

One of Ford’s most iconic roles is that of Indiana Jones, an adventurous archaeologist. The character first appeared in Raiders of the Lost Ark in 1981 and quickly became a cultural icon. The blend of action, humor, and intelligence made Indiana Jones a beloved figure.

The success of this role led to several sequels, cementing Ford’s status as a leading man in Hollywood.

Han Solo: The Space-Faring Smuggler

Another unforgettable character brought to life by Ford is Han Solo from the Star Wars franchise. Introduced in 1977’s A New Hope, Han Solo is a charming smuggler who becomes an unlikely hero. Ford’s portrayal added depth and charisma to the character, making him one of the most recognizable figures in cinematic history.

Han Solo’s legacy continues to influence pop culture today.

Rick Deckard: The Reluctant Hero

In 1982’s Blade Runner, Ford took on the role of Rick Deckard, a reluctant hero in a dystopian future. This character added complexity to Ford’s repertoire with its moral ambiguity and existential themes.

Blade Runner has since become a classic, appreciated for its philosophical questions and visual style.

President James Marshall: The Presidential Protector

In Air Force One (1997), Ford played President James Marshall, a leader who embodies courage under pressure when terrorists hijack his plane. This role showcased Ford’s ability to portray authority figures with strength and integrity while delivering high-stakes action sequences that kept audiences on edge.

https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/harrison-ford-s-iconic-roles-in-american-cinema/story

5 ways Barry Jenkins redefines modern cinema

**5 Ways Barry Jenkins Redefines Modern Cinema**
*By Vinita Jain | Sep 22, 2025, 01:43 pm*

Barry Jenkins, the visionary filmmaker behind the Oscar-winning *Moonlight*, has a unique storytelling style that delves deeply into human emotions and societal issues. Known for his nuanced characters and rich visual storytelling, Jenkins’s films go beyond mere entertainment—they provoke thought and evoke empathy. Here’s a closer look at how he redefines modern cinema through his distinctive approach:

### 1. Emphasis on Character Development
Jenkins’s films prioritize creating multi-dimensional characters that feel real and relatable. By focusing on their backstories and motivations, he ensures audiences connect with them emotionally. This attention to detail makes the characters’ journeys more impactful and memorable.

### 2. Visual Storytelling Techniques
A hallmark of Jenkins’s style is his mastery of visual storytelling. He uses color palettes, camera angles, and lighting to convey emotions subtly, often without relying heavily on dialogue. This immersive visual approach allows viewers to experience the story on a more visceral level.

### 3. Exploration of Social Themes
Jenkins frequently explores complex social issues such as identity, race, and class. Tackling these themes with sensitivity and depth, he encourages audiences to reflect on their own perspectives. Integrating these issues into his narratives adds meaningful layers that resonate long after the film ends.

### 4. Collaborative Approach to Filmmaking
Collaboration is central to Jenkins’s creative process. He works closely with actors, cinematographers, and other crew members to bring his vision to life. This collaborative spirit fosters creativity and results in films rich in detail and authenticity.

### 5. Use of Music as a Narrative Tool
Music plays a crucial role in Jenkins’s storytelling. He carefully selects soundtracks that complement the emotional tone and enhance character development. The music becomes an integral part of the narrative, drawing viewers deeper into the story rather than serving as mere background noise.

Barry Jenkins’s innovative techniques continue to push the boundaries of contemporary cinema, offering audiences films that are emotionally profound, visually striking, and socially insightful.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/barry-jenkins-the-filmmaker-behind-powerful-narratives/story

Tom Holland gets injured on ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ set

Tom Holland is taking some time off from filming *Spider-Man: Brand New Day* after suffering an on-set injury. The 29-year-old actor sustained a mild concussion during a shoot on Friday, September 19, according to *The Hollywood Reporter*. He was taken to a hospital following a fall at Leavesden Studios in Watford, about 20 miles outside of London, *Daily Mail* reported.

Dominic Holland, Tom’s father, later informed attendees at a charity dinner on Sunday, September 21, that his son would be away from filming for a while to recover.

The injury comes just as Holland had been sharing his excitement about returning to the role of Peter Parker. In a recent interview with *Esquire*, the *Uncharted* star revealed that he did a lot of sneaky research online to see what fans wanted after *Spider-Man: No Way Home* and brought those ideas to Marvel.

“I really just kind of put together a vibe of what people were looking for and went to Marvel and said, ‘This is what I think we should be doing,’” Holland said. “And I think that’s exactly what we are doing. So it’s been a really fun process developing the movie. It’s the first time I’ve ever been allowed in that part of the process, and it’s definitely a stressful experience. But I think where we’ve got to now that we’re shooting, we are shooting absolute gold.”

He also praised director Destin Daniel Cretton’s vision for the project, calling it “absolute gold.”

Back in October 2024, Holland hinted on *Good Morning America* that the storyline would be something different. “The idea is crazy,” he teased at the time. “It’s a little different to anything we’ve done before, but I think the fans are gonna really respond to it.”
https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1345452-tom-holland-gets-injured-on-spider-man-brand-new-day-set

Priyadarshan blames ‘bad forces’ for ‘Hera Pheri 3’ controversy

**Priyadarshan Blames ‘Bad Forces’ for ‘Hera Pheri 3’ Controversy**

*By Isha Sharma | September 21, 2025, 12:26 PM*

The much-anticipated third installment of the beloved *Hera Pheri* franchise has recently been surrounded by controversy. Earlier this year, veteran actor Paresh Rawal briefly exited the project in May, citing creative disagreements. However, he made a comeback in late June, confirming his reunion with co-stars Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty.

Addressing the situation, director Priyadarshan clarified that there were no personal issues between him, Akshay Kumar, and Paresh Rawal. Speaking to Pinkvilla, he said, “I tell you very frankly, Paresh and I never had an issue. Even to the best of my knowledge, Akshay and Paresh also never had any issue. There are some other forces, bad forces, who were pressurizing Paresh. He is someone who tends to get worried easily, but at the same time our relationship has never been affected.”

Priyadarshan further expressed his reluctance to focus on the negative aspects surrounding the project. “I thought and even Akshay told me that if it happens let it happen otherwise let’s forget it. If it happens in a very good way, that’s great, but there are other bad forces which have created a lot of issues. It is not worth talking about them so I won’t,” he added.

Rawal’s sudden departure had reportedly resulted in Akshay Kumar’s production house filing a case against him. The actor, however, maintained that he had legitimate reasons for his exit and had even returned his signing amount along with interest. Thankfully, the dispute was resolved, and Rawal is now back on board.

In a recent interview with News18, Paresh Rawal confirmed that *Hera Pheri 3* is set to go on floors next year, much to the excitement of fans eagerly awaiting the film’s release.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/priyadarshan-breaks-silence-on-hera-pheri-3-controversy/story

Good fortune on gig economy

One of the more delightful mainstream films at the 50th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) was *Good Fortune*, an American film in English featured in a Gala presentation. Directed by American comedian Aziz Ansari, who has roots in Tamil Nadu, the film also stars Keke Palmer and Sandra Oh. *Good Fortune* is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release, including in India, on October 17, 2025.

From the South Asian diaspora at TIFF, two diverse features explored the evils of capitalism. One of these was Aneil Karia’s *Hamlet*, presented as a Centrepiece film. This powerful British adaptation of Shakespeare’s great tragedy is performed in both Punjabi and Shakespearean English, starring Riz Ahmed and Sheeba Chaddha.

*Good Fortune* continues the growing trend of comedians becoming film actors, stars, and directors—following in the footsteps of icons such as Charlie Chaplin, Chris Rock, and Jordan Peele. This mirrors a historical shift when singers became film stars with the advent of sound in cinema, a trend also seen with India’s own Kapil Sharma.

The story centers on an angel named Gabriel (played by Keanu Reeves), a lowly angel with small wings whose duties are limited to preventing people from texting and driving simultaneously. Gabriel’s life changes when he observes the struggles of Arj (Aziz Ansari), a gig worker delivering for an app-based company. Arj juggles multiple shifts, barely manages to feed himself, and is forced to sleep in his car, which eventually gets towed due to unpaid parking tickets.

Out of compassion, Gabriel swaps lives with Jeff (Seth Rogen), a wealthy venture capitalist whose California mansion Arj regularly delivers goods to. Gabriel expects that Arj will soon realize the flaws of the wealthy, carefree life and want to swap back to his humble existence. However, to Gabriel’s surprise, Arj enjoys his new life—sipping cocktails by the pool—and has no intention of returning to his previous hardships.

The film’s narrative borrows elements from several classics: Wim Wenders’ *Wings of Desire* (1987), where an angel comes to Earth; the body-swap comedy *Freaky Friday*; and nods to Frank Capra’s *It’s a Wonderful Life*, in which a man contemplating suicide reconsiders after reflecting on his selfless acts and the impact he has made.

*Good Fortune* employs some narrative back-and-forth, with Gabriel visible only to Arj, mixing laugh-out-loud comedy with poignant moments. The film highlights the hearts of gold found at the bottom of the gig economy—such as Arj’s on-again, off-again partner, who dreams of starting a union to fight for workers’ rights, not just for those fortunate enough to currently benefit.

Keanu Reeves’ deadpan portrayal of the angel anchors the film, while Seth Rogen delivers a dry wit in his role. Aziz Ansari, who co-created and directed 11 episodes of the critically acclaimed Netflix series *Master of None*, as well as his 2022 comedy special *Nightclub Comedian*, brings his distinct voice to this project.

Presented by Lionsgate, *Good Fortune* is backed by producers Aziz Ansari, Anthony Katagas, and Alan Yang. Executive producers include Aniz Adam Ansari, Jonathan McCoy, Christopher Woodrow, and Connor DiGregorio. In India, the film will be distributed by PVR INOX Pictures.

Meenakshi Shedde, a film curator with 30 years of experience working with Toronto, Berlin, and other international film festivals, has played roles such as Cannes Film Festival Jury Member and Golden Globes International Voter. She is also a respected journalist and critic. You can reach her at meenakshi.shedde@mid-day.com.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/opinion/article/good-fortune-on-gig-economy-23595011