Studio Ghibli is finally its mark in mainstream after bagging the Oscar for the boy and the Japanese animation studio has become the first group in history to be awarded at the Cannes Film Festival.

Studio Ghibli 2024 enters mainstream cinema

As his film Shesh Pata releases on Zee5 Global, Bengali superstar Prosenjit Chatterjee speaks to WION about his film, the importance of OTT and taking Bengali cinema to a global audience.

Prosenjit Chatterjee on taking Bengali films to a global audience, OTT and more

Cinephiles now have a chance to get their hands on vintage movie posters and memorabilia of legendary movie stars of the Indian film industry.

Indian cinema memorabilia goes under the hammer

The 54th International Film Festival of India is currently underway in Goa. Anurag Thakur, Union Minister of Information & Broadcasting inaugurated the event and honoured Indian actor Madhuri Dixit with a special recognition for her contribution to the cinema industry.

International Film Festival of India: India actor Madhuri Dixit honoured at festival

India's Bollywood, the Hindi film industry based out of Mumbai, may now exhale in relief as Shah Rukh Khan's charm shines on screen.&nbsp;

Despite worries over several big-screen disappointments in the previous year, it is clear that Indians still adore going to the movies.&nbsp;

The triumph of extravagant, life-sized movies like "Pathan" and "Jawan" bears witness to this. In addition, big-budget upcoming films like "Tiger 3," "Dunki," and "Project K" demonstrate that the appeal of the big screen is still strong despite the threat posed by OTT platforms and web series in theatres, which was a worry after the epidemic.

A recent survey by 'The CineFiles'&nbsp;shows that 98 per cent of Indians believe that the magic of cinema comes to life on a big screen. Thirty per cent of the participants ascribe this opinion to elements like specific directors, themes, and visual effects (VFX).

Ninety per cent of respondents said that seeing the newest film in a theatre is their favourite way to pass the time when not at home. This preference outranks going shopping, seeing live performances, and going on adventurous trips.&nbsp;

A noteworthy 63 per cent of participants thought about movies at least once every two weeks, highlighting the fact that the cinematic experience is far from being obsolete. Many generations agree with this sentiment; Gen Z and Millennials are even thinking about going to the movies on a big screen once a week.

Out of the 5,000 respondents to the survey, 41 per cent were Gen Z and 59 per cent were Millennials and Gen X.

Indian moviegoers are also renowned for their meticulous planning; 74 per cent of them choose films that speak to them and reserve seats at least three days in advance. Furthermore, 74% of moviegoers like to view a film at a theatre from the seat of their choosing, therefore they make reservations in advance.

When deciding which movies to see on a large screen, the plot, the cast, the director, reviews and ratings, and the trailer's impact are the main deciding considerations. Interestingly, 38% of those surveyed in Delhi value reviews and ratings, people in Bengaluru value the director's involvement (32 per cent), and people in Mumbai value the storyline (43 per cent). This illustrates how crucial high-quality content is.

The thrill surrounding "first day, first show" has returned, with 35 per cent of GenZ favouring the early morning experience. About 36 per cent of Gen Z and Millennial moviegoers look for an immersive experience when choosing a big screen to escape from stress and obligations. On the other hand, Gen X moviegoers prioritise the cast of a film as well as referrals from friends and family before taking a cinematic trip.

India's Bollywood, the Hindi film industry based out of Mumbai, may now exhale in relief as Shah Rukh Khan's charm shines on screen. Despite worries over several big-screen disappointments in the previous year, it is clear that Indians still adore going to the movies.

India's Bollywood, the Hindi film industry based out of Mumbai, may now exhale in relief as Shah Rukh Khan's charm shines on screen. Despite worries over several big-screen disappointments in the previous year, it is clear that Indians still adore going to the movies. The triumph of extravagant, life-sized movies like "Pathan" and "Jawan" bears witness to this. In addition, big-budget upcoming films like "Tiger 3," "Dunki," and "Project K" demonstrate that the appeal of the big screen is still strong despite the threat posed by OTT platforms and web series in theatres, which was a worry after the epidemic. A recent survey by 'The CineFiles' shows that 98 per cent of Indians believe that the magic of cinema comes to life on a big screen. Thirty per cent of the participants ascribe this opinion to elements like specific directors, themes, and visual effects (VFX). Ninety per cent of respondents said that seeing the newest film in a theatre is their favourite way to pass the time when not at home. This preference outranks going shopping, seeing live performances, and going on adventurous trips. A noteworthy 63 per cent of participants thought about movies at least once every two weeks, highlighting the fact that the cinematic experience is far from being obsolete. Many generations agree with this sentiment; Gen Z and Millennials are even thinking about going to the movies on a big screen once a week. Out of the 5,000 respondents to the survey, 41 per cent were Gen Z and 59 per cent were Millennials and Gen X. Indian moviegoers are also renowned for their meticulous planning; 74 per cent of them choose films that speak to them and reserve seats at least three days in advance. Furthermore, 74% of moviegoers like to view a film at a theatre from the seat of their choosing, therefore they make reservations in advance. When deciding which movies to see on a large screen, the plot, the cast, the director, reviews and ratings, and the trailer's impact are the main deciding considerations. Interestingly, 38% of those surveyed in Delhi value reviews and ratings, people in Bengaluru value the director's involvement (32 per cent), and people in Mumbai value the storyline (43 per cent). This illustrates how crucial high-quality content is. The thrill surrounding "first day, first show" has returned, with 35 per cent of GenZ favouring the early morning experience. About 36 per cent of Gen Z and Millennial moviegoers look for an immersive experience when choosing a big screen to escape from stress and obligations. On the other hand, Gen X moviegoers prioritise the cast of a film as well as referrals from friends and family before taking a cinematic trip.

Indian audiences embrace blockbuster movies on the big screen

With the rise in pet ownership during the COVID-19 pandemic, some businesses are now capitalizing on this trend.

In Pics | Thailand's first pet-friendly cinema opens for four-legged film-goers

Critics Choice Awards ceremonies were held on Sunday evening at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles. The annual awards celebrated the best in television and cinema, with ABC's "Abbott Elementary" topping the television nominees with six and A24's "Everything Everywhere All at Once" leading the film categories with 14. Best Comedy went to Rian Johnson's murder thriller Glass Onion: Knives Out, and Best Foreign Language Series went to the Korean series Pachinko. India must be proud of SS Rajamouli's RRR because it won two accolades. Both the Best Foreign Language Film and Best Song awards went to RRR. RRR also bagged nominations for The Best Director, Best Picture, and Best Visual Effects nominations. The movie had already won a Golden Globe for Best Song for the song Naatu Naatu.&nbsp;

The 28th annual Critics' Choice Awards, which were shown on Sunday night, honoured the best in television and film. Without The CW cable, you can still watch the event live on DirecTV Stream and Hulu + Live TV, which started broadcasting at 7 pm ET on the CW. This year's event was hosted by Chelsea Handler instead of Taye Diggs, who presided over it for the previous four years in a row. Additionally at the ceremony, Jeff Bridges was given a lifetime achievement award, and Janelle Monáe was given the SeeHer Award.

The Critics Choice Awards, decided upon by the Critics Choice Association, aim to honour the finest in film and television each year and can provide certain award campaigns with a much-needed boost in the run-up to the Oscars. The Critics Choice Awards winners occasionally coincide pretty well with final Oscar winners, but the CCA and the Academy, which casts the Oscar voting, do not share membership, so they are not a perfect indicator of what the Academy would recognise in March.

<h2>How to watch 2023 Critics' Choice Awards online, without cable?</h2>

Hulu's live TV streaming service includes more than 85 channels for live sports, news, and events. Critics' Choice Awards can be accessed on The CW through Hulu's live TV streaming service. You'll get access to live TV in addition to Hulu's vast collection of exclusive series, original programming, and popular movies. The CW is also a part of DirecTV Stream's Entertainment Package, which offers more than 75 channels and more than 40,000 on-demand selections. Additionally, a limited offer now covers the first three months of HBO Max, Showtime, Starz, Epix, and Cinemax. 
&nbsp;

Critics Choice Awards ceremonies were held on Sunday evening at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles. The annual awards celebrated the best in television and cinema, with ABC's "Abbott Elementary" topping the television nominees with six and A24's "Everything Everywhere All at Once" leading the film categories with 14.

Critics Choice Awards ceremonies were held on Sunday evening at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles. The annual awards celebrated the best in television and cinema, with ABC's "Abbott Elementary" topping the television nominees with six and A24's "Everything Everywhere All at Once" leading the film categories with 14. Best Comedy went to Rian Johnson's murder thriller Glass Onion: Knives Out, and Best Foreign Language Series went to the Korean series Pachinko. India must be proud of SS Rajamouli's RRR because it won two accolades. Both the Best Foreign Language Film and Best Song awards went to RRR. RRR also bagged nominations for The Best Director, Best Picture, and Best Visual Effects nominations. The movie had already won a Golden Globe for Best Song for the song Naatu Naatu. The 28th annual Critics' Choice Awards, which were shown on Sunday night, honoured the best in television and film. Without The CW cable, you can still watch the event live on DirecTV Stream and Hulu + Live TV, which started broadcasting at 7 pm ET on the CW. This year's event was hosted by Chelsea Handler instead of Taye Diggs, who presided over it for the previous four years in a row. Additionally at the ceremony, Jeff Bridges was given a lifetime achievement award, and Janelle Monáe was given the SeeHer Award. The Critics Choice Awards, decided upon by the Critics Choice Association, aim to honour the finest in film and television each year and can provide certain award campaigns with a much-needed boost in the run-up to the Oscars. The Critics Choice Awards winners occasionally coincide pretty well with final Oscar winners, but the CCA and the Academy, which casts the Oscar voting, do not share membership, so they are not a perfect indicator of what the Academy would recognise in March. How to watch 2023 Critics' Choice Awards online, without cable? Hulu's live TV streaming service includes more than 85 channels for live sports, news, and events. Critics' Choice Awards can be accessed on The CW through Hulu's live TV streaming service. You'll get access to live TV in addition to Hulu's vast collection of exclusive series, original programming, and popular movies. The CW is also a part of DirecTV Stream's Entertainment Package, which offers more than 75 channels and more than 40,000 on-demand selections. Additionally, a limited offer now covers the first three months of HBO Max, Showtime, Starz, Epix, and Cinemax.

Critics Choice Awards 2023: Check how to watch the show honoring the best in cinema on TV, online

After thirty-two long years, cinema is returning to Kashmir valley. The first multiplex is opening in Srinagar City to provide entertainment to the youth of Kashmir. Cinema halls in the valley were closed in the early 90s after terrorism found its roots in the region.

India: Cinema returns to Kashmir after 32 years of intermission

Indian and its film industry have evolved and grown parallelly. Cinema has been an integral part of every Indian life much before we got Independence.

India@75: From silent to OTT cinema - the ever-evolving film industry

Cinema Paradiso has kicked off in the Louvre Museum. A selection of documentaries will be shown. 2500 spectators are expected to visit the cinema festival in Paris.

Cinema Paradiso kicks off in the Louvre Museum: Selection of documentaries to be shown

Several cinemas in the UK have banned younger moviegoers from wearing suits to the screenings of 'Minions: The Rise of Gru', reported the BBC.

Teenagers clad in suits, calling themselves The Gentleminions, have been reported indulging in rowdy behaviour in theatres, thus inviting the bans.&nbsp;

Videos featuring the so-called Gentleminions, which emerged from the popular video-sharing site TikTok (banned in India), are being circulated on all major social media sites.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-why-disney-could-lose-the-rights-to-mickey-mouse-494564">Why Disney could lose the rights to Mickey Mouse</a>

However, the studio behind the film and the franchise, Univeral Pictures, seems to side with the The Gentleminions. On Twitter, its official handle wrote, "to everyone showing up to @Minions in suits: we see you and we love you."

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6DxjJzmYsXo" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

'Minions: The Rise of Gru' is the sequel to 2015's 'Minions', itself a spinoff of the 'Despicable Me' franchise. Directed by Kyle Balda and written by Matthew Fogel, the film is based on the the fictional titular childish creatures with unintelligible and amusing language in the 'Despicable Me' franchise.&nbsp;

Said to have existed since the beginning of life on earth, they seek out the most terrible of villains and if they cannot find somebody suitable, they get depressed.&nbsp;

'Minions: The Rise of Gru' has received mostly positive reviews. On the review aggregation site Rotten Tomatoes, the movie has scored a respectable 72 per cent, meaning most of its reviews are favourable. The critical consensus reads, "The Minions' antic shenanigans are beginning to grate despite this sequel's injection of retro chic, although this loony marathon of gags will still delight young children."

Several cinemas in the UK have banned younger moviegoers from wearing suits to the screenings of 'Minions: The Rise of Gru', reported the BBC. Teenagers clad in suits, calling themselves The Gentleminions, have been reported indulging in rowdy behaviour in theatres, thus inviting the bans.

Several cinemas in the UK have banned younger moviegoers from wearing suits to the screenings of 'Minions: The Rise of Gru', reported the BBC. Teenagers clad in suits, calling themselves The Gentleminions, have been reported indulging in rowdy behaviour in theatres, thus inviting the bans. Videos featuring the so-called Gentleminions, which emerged from the popular video-sharing site TikTok (banned in India), are being circulated on all major social media sites. Also Read: Why Disney could lose the rights to Mickey Mouse However, the studio behind the film and the franchise, Univeral Pictures, seems to side with the The Gentleminions. On Twitter, its official handle wrote, "to everyone showing up to @Minions in suits: we see you and we love you." 'Minions: The Rise of Gru' is the sequel to 2015's 'Minions', itself a spinoff of the 'Despicable Me' franchise. Directed by Kyle Balda and written by Matthew Fogel, the film is based on the the fictional titular childish creatures with unintelligible and amusing language in the 'Despicable Me' franchise. Said to have existed since the beginning of life on earth, they seek out the most terrible of villains and if they cannot find somebody suitable, they get depressed. 'Minions: The Rise of Gru' has received mostly positive reviews. On the review aggregation site Rotten Tomatoes, the movie has scored a respectable 72 per cent, meaning most of its reviews are favourable. The critical consensus reads, "The Minions' antic shenanigans are beginning to grate despite this sequel's injection of retro chic, although this loony marathon of gags will still delight young children."

UK cinemas ban suit-clad teens from 'Minions: The Rise of Gru' screenings after rowdy behaviour

For decades, the historic Ariana cinema entertained Afghans. But it has been closed for months now. Like the rest of the country, the Ariana is in limbo, waiting to see how the Taliban will rule. On South Asia Diary, Mariam Wardak brings you the story of Ariana cinema.

South Asia Diary | Ariana cinema's fate hangs in limbo, will Taliban allows movies in Afghanistan?

When dabbling in the ever-evolving topic of middle-aged women in films, a funny response by Halle Berry on Jimmy Kimmel’s ‘Mean Tweets Live’ segment crops up in my head. It was 2015 and someone had tweeted about her then 49 YO breasts that went like this – “Halle Berrie’s boobs are lopsided (sic)” – to which, the actress had replied, quite nonchalant by the public attack on her supposedly sagging bosom, “Well, when they’re real, that happens.” Six years on, that is precisely the case. Female actors are, thankfully, no longer put on a pedestal when they are young and thriving and unceremoniously escorted out the back door, when they are not. The new-age ‘old’ women in cinema are fierce, unabashedly accepting of their bodies and the inevitable transition they must endure over time. They are not their lip jobs and liposuctions; they are here to render one career-defining performance after another.

Perhaps it is this newfound confidence in embracing what was (once) generationally considered wrath of nature that led Academy Award-winning actress Kate Winslet to say no to digital tummy tucks for her monster hit ‘Mare of Easttown’. Crow’s feet? Laugh lines? Stretched bellies from birthing kids? No problem.

Winslet’s contemporaries, too, are defying the age barrier that’s been rampant in films with sheer talent. Take ‘Noctural Animals’ actress Amy Adams for instance. True, her ambitious project ‘The Woman in the Window’ faced harsh criticism for, well, being a bad film but with Disney’s ‘Disenchanted’ lead Giselle in tow and the high school drama ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ in the pipeline, who’s to say if 2022 will mark her seventh Oscar nomination. Interestingly, Adams’ first nomination for ‘JuneBag’ was back in 2005 and she was only 31 years of age: the pink of her health, ageists may say. And although time has turned her into a raddled version (according to conventionalists) of her once pretty self, there is not an iota of doubt that 46 YO Adams is tailor-made for an Academy honor, the question is when.

Talking of 2021 releases, it is safe to say that Rosamund Pike’s sharp bob, pantsuits and sass made quite the entrance in this year’s Netflix sleeper hit ‘I Care A Lot’. The actress – then in her 30s – had become the poster child of troubled prettiness with her distinct act as Amy Dunne in the 2014 release ‘Gone Girl’ and exudes ghastly charm and gravitas with the same intensity in her latest outing as she had seven years ago. If anything, Pike is carving a niche for herself in this genre that few dare to tread along.

Agreed, clicking pictures with best friend Penelope Cruz – another stunning actor who refuses to slow down with age like it’s a nonexistent phenomenon – is second nature to Salma Hayek, but when she is in front of the camera for whatever role is offered to her… Boy is she on fire! Her pairing with Owen Wilson in this year’s ‘Bliss’ may have been an odd artistic choice but Hayek as a kooky crack head was a delight to watch, to say the least. &nbsp;If her thick Spanish accent, like ‘Modern family’ alumna Sofia Vergara’s, could not jeopardize her career in Hollywood, age certainly stands no chance.

‘The Crown’ royalty Olivia Colman may not be distractingly beautiful like Cruz or Hayek but what she is, is mind-bogglingly talented. There are very few actresses in Hollywood, or any other parts of the world for that matter, who can stand shoulder-to-shoulder in acting prowess with the legendary Anthony Hopkins but Olivia Colman is no plain Jane—in that regard—and she does what comes naturally to her: acting. Greys or not.

Similarly, the Streeps, McDormands, Mirrens, Portmans and Blanchetts of showbiz are far too busy touching the zenith of their respective careers to care about nagging remarks about stepping away from milestone acting jobs, and what for. In an industry notorious for massaging the male ego and where pay parity is an open joke, it is refreshing to see women break free from the shackles of ageism and pave the path for themselves and the younger school of actresses to come.

BOLLYWOOD’S NOT BEHIND

Historically, the Indian film industry has struggled with the PYT syndrome for as long as I can remember—Pretty Young Thing, that is. In recent years, however, it has started to separate raw talent from preconceived notions of beauty. In modern India, quite recently, a heavyset woman well in her 40s like Vidya Balan shoulders a big-budgeted film ironically about capturing a tigress, titled ‘Sherni’. It is almost hilarious that Balan, who was once mocked and rebuked for gaining weight, is now regarded as a national (art) treasure.

Or a Neena Gupta—who had left the whole nation gasping in unison when she had announced her pregnancy out of wedlock, back in the 80s—do what they couldn’t do when the ‘age’ was right: land a lead role. In her OTT show with daughter Masaba Gupta in 2020-21, named ‘Masaba Masaba’, Gupta echoes her suppressed emotions about not being able to make it as ‘a heroine’ in her prime and how she was reduced to a mere prop, aka ‘heroine ki saheli’. At 62, Gupta realized a fraction of that dream in a series that was otherwise meant to be her designer daughter’s acting launch pad. Times are truly ‘a changin’.

Despite the organized commotion that is the cinema industry and the plethora of issues it nurtures, encounters and fights back, a cluster of women have dared to defy age and land acting jobs strictly on their acting expertise. Thus, reiterating the fact that if the youth is your moolah, then you will be spent.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

When dabbling in the ever-evolving topic of middle-aged women in films, a funny response by Halle Berry on Jimmy Kimmel’s ‘Mean Tweets Live’ segment crops up in my head.

When dabbling in the ever-evolving topic of middle-aged women in films, a funny response by Halle Berry on Jimmy Kimmel’s ‘Mean Tweets Live’ segment crops up in my head. It was 2015 and someone had tweeted about her then 49 YO breasts that went like this – “Halle Berrie’s boobs are lopsided (sic)” – to which, the actress had replied, quite nonchalant by the public attack on her supposedly sagging bosom, “Well, when they’re real, that happens.” Six years on, that is precisely the case. Female actors are, thankfully, no longer put on a pedestal when they are young and thriving and unceremoniously escorted out the back door, when they are not. The new-age ‘old’ women in cinema are fierce, unabashedly accepting of their bodies and the inevitable transition they must endure over time. They are not their lip jobs and liposuctions; they are here to render one career-defining performance after another. Perhaps it is this newfound confidence in embracing what was (once) generationally considered wrath of nature that led Academy Award-winning actress Kate Winslet to say no to digital tummy tucks for her monster hit ‘Mare of Easttown’. Crow’s feet? Laugh lines? Stretched bellies from birthing kids? No problem. Winslet’s contemporaries, too, are defying the age barrier that’s been rampant in films with sheer talent. Take ‘Noctural Animals’ actress Amy Adams for instance. True, her ambitious project ‘The Woman in the Window’ faced harsh criticism for, well, being a bad film but with Disney’s ‘Disenchanted’ lead Giselle in tow and the high school drama ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ in the pipeline, who’s to say if 2022 will mark her seventh Oscar nomination. Interestingly, Adams’ first nomination for ‘JuneBag’ was back in 2005 and she was only 31 years of age: the pink of her health, ageists may say. And although time has turned her into a raddled version (according to conventionalists) of her once pretty self, there is not an iota of doubt that 46 YO Adams is tailor-made for an Academy honor, the question is when. Talking of 2021 releases, it is safe to say that Rosamund Pike’s sharp bob, pantsuits and sass made quite the entrance in this year’s Netflix sleeper hit ‘I Care A Lot’. The actress – then in her 30s – had become the poster child of troubled prettiness with her distinct act as Amy Dunne in the 2014 release ‘Gone Girl’ and exudes ghastly charm and gravitas with the same intensity in her latest outing as she had seven years ago. If anything, Pike is carving a niche for herself in this genre that few dare to tread along. Agreed, clicking pictures with best friend Penelope Cruz – another stunning actor who refuses to slow down with age like it’s a nonexistent phenomenon – is second nature to Salma Hayek, but when she is in front of the camera for whatever role is offered to her… Boy is she on fire! Her pairing with Owen Wilson in this year’s ‘Bliss’ may have been an odd artistic choice but Hayek as a kooky crack head was a delight to watch, to say the least. If her thick Spanish accent, like ‘Modern family’ alumna Sofia Vergara’s, could not jeopardize her career in Hollywood, age certainly stands no chance. ‘The Crown’ royalty Olivia Colman may not be distractingly beautiful like Cruz or Hayek but what she is, is mind-bogglingly talented. There are very few actresses in Hollywood, or any other parts of the world for that matter, who can stand shoulder-to-shoulder in acting prowess with the legendary Anthony Hopkins but Olivia Colman is no plain Jane—in that regard—and she does what comes naturally to her: acting. Greys or not. Similarly, the Streeps, McDormands, Mirrens, Portmans and Blanchetts of showbiz are far too busy touching the zenith of their respective careers to care about nagging remarks about stepping away from milestone acting jobs, and what for. In an industry notorious for massaging the male ego and where pay parity is an open joke, it is refreshing to see women break free from the shackles of ageism and pave the path for themselves and the younger school of actresses to come. BOLLYWOOD’S NOT BEHIND Historically, the Indian film industry has struggled with the PYT syndrome for as long as I can remember—Pretty Young Thing, that is. In recent years, however, it has started to separate raw talent from preconceived notions of beauty. In modern India, quite recently, a heavyset woman well in her 40s like Vidya Balan shoulders a big-budgeted film ironically about capturing a tigress, titled ‘Sherni’. It is almost hilarious that Balan, who was once mocked and rebuked for gaining weight, is now regarded as a national (art) treasure. Or a Neena Gupta—who had left the whole nation gasping in unison when she had announced her pregnancy out of wedlock, back in the 80s—do what they couldn’t do when the ‘age’ was right: land a lead role. In her OTT show with daughter Masaba Gupta in 2020-21, named ‘Masaba Masaba’, Gupta echoes her suppressed emotions about not being able to make it as ‘a heroine’ in her prime and how she was reduced to a mere prop, aka ‘heroine ki saheli’. At 62, Gupta realized a fraction of that dream in a series that was otherwise meant to be her designer daughter’s acting launch pad. Times are truly ‘a changin’. Despite the organized commotion that is the cinema industry and the plethora of issues it nurtures, encounters and fights back, a cluster of women have dared to defy age and land acting jobs strictly on their acting expertise. Thus, reiterating the fact that if the youth is your moolah, then you will be spent. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion | Kate Winslet, Salma Hayek, Vidya Balan: Sexy is the new middle age!

The&nbsp;Cannes&nbsp;Film&nbsp;Festival&nbsp;returns&nbsp;next week, promising to bury the long months of darkness and solitude under an avalanche of celebrity, champagne and chin-stroking arthouse&nbsp;cinema.&nbsp;

It is billed as nothing less than a resurrection. "Cinema&nbsp;is not dead!" festival supremo Thierry Fremaux declared last month.&nbsp;

It is the first major fully-fledged&nbsp;film&nbsp;festival&nbsp;since the pandemic, and a truckload of Hollywood stars -- from Timothee Chalamet to Nicole Kidman to Matt Damon -- are expected on the Croisette between July 6 and 17.

It's not quite a return to normal, of course, even if France's Covid numbers have been steadily improving and most restrictions lifted.&nbsp;

There will be no "bises" -- the French-style peck on the cheeks -- at the top of the fabled steps to the Palais des Festivals.&nbsp;

And some of the&nbsp;glitz&nbsp;will be toned down, with many after-parties cancelled and the big galas cutting their invite lists in half to meet social distancing guidelines.&nbsp;

Organisers are also slowly waking up to the fact that the sight of celebrities and moguls arriving on private jets and mega-yachts doesn't seem so chic in an age of impending climate disaster.

So this year: no plastic, lots of electric cars, and most symbolic of all: a red carpet that is half the size and made from recycled material.&nbsp;

Stargazing&nbsp;

But our collective need to gawp at megastars on the Cote d'Azur will not be denied.&nbsp;

One&nbsp;film&nbsp;in this year's competition accounts for an outsize share of the celeb-count: Wes Anderson's "The French Dispatch" includes Chalamet, Benicio del Toro, Bill Murray and many more.&nbsp;

Two other stars of that&nbsp;film&nbsp;-- Tilda Swinton and Lea Seydoux -- will be near-ubiquitous on the Croisette, with appearances in a remarkable eight movies between them.

Damon is in town for the premiere of his latest thriller, the Marseilles-set "Stillwater".

But&nbsp;Cannes&nbsp;is all about the filmmakers, and after last year's edition was cancelled due to the pandemic, a particularly rich crop of festival alumni is competing for the Palme d'Or.&nbsp;

Among those submitting themselves to the famously blunt audiences of&nbsp;Cannes&nbsp;are several past winners: Italy's Nanni Moretti with his new&nbsp;film&nbsp;"Tre Piani", France's Jacques Audiard ("Les Olympiades") and Thailand's master of the slow-burn Apichatpong Weerasethakul with his English-language debut ("Memoria").&nbsp;

The opening night&nbsp;film&nbsp;is also a first in English for France's Leo Carax, directing Adam Driver and Marion Cotillard in what is certain to be a bizarre and visually arresting musical about a celebrity couple and their mysterious child, "Annette".

Dutch shockmeister Paul Verhoeven, who made his name with Hollywood megahits like "Robocop" and "Basic Instinct", continues his late run of (slightly) more subtle European fare with "Benedetta" about lesbian nuns in 17th century Italy.&nbsp;

Sean Penn will also be hoping for a personal resurrection after his catastrophic&nbsp;Cannes&nbsp;appearance in 2016, when his Africa-based humanitarian love story "The Last Face" was mercilessly booed.&nbsp;

He is aiming for a warmer reception to "Flag Day", starring himself and his daughter Dylan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-calls-report-of-china-building-more-than-100-nuclear-missile-silos-concerning-395234">Also Read |&nbsp;US calls report of China building more than 100 nuclear missile silos 'concerning'</a>

Also in the competition are Iran's two-time Oscar winner Asghar Farhadi, who&nbsp;returns&nbsp;with "A Hero", and Russia's Kirill Serebrennikov, who is unable to attend due to an embezzlement conviction that is widely seen as punishment for criticising Vladimir Putin.

Gender imbalance&nbsp;

The panel judging the 24 entries is headed by US director Spike Lee -- the first time a black man has led the jury -- and includes "The Serpent" star Tahar Rahim and US actress Maggie Gyllenhaal.&nbsp;

With just four female directors in the competition, the festival's tendency to pick the usual (male) suspects of the arthouse elite is once again under scrutiny.&nbsp;

Only one woman has won the top Palme d'Or prize in 73 editions of the festival: Jane Campion for "The Piano" in 1993.

The selection is more balanced in the other sections, however, with over half the entries in the independent Directors' Fortnight and International Critics Week coming from women directors.&nbsp;

US actor-director Jodie Foster will likely field questions on the subject as she picks up an honorary Palme.&nbsp;

There is plenty happening outside the competitions, including a first showing of Oliver Stone's new documentary about the JFK assassination, updating his feature-length conspiracy theory from 1991.&nbsp;

That will play in the new&nbsp;Cannes&nbsp;Premiere section, along with other intriguing documentaries: one about troubled star Val Kilmer ("Val") and Charlotte Gainsbourg's ode to her mother Jane Birkin ("Jane").

The Cannes Film Festival returns next week, promising to bury the long months of darkness and solitude under an avalanche of celebrity, champagne and chin-stroking arthouse cinema.

The Cannes Film Festival returns next week, promising to bury the long months of darkness and solitude under an avalanche of celebrity, champagne and chin-stroking arthouse cinema. It is billed as nothing less than a resurrection. "Cinema is not dead!" festival supremo Thierry Fremaux declared last month. It is the first major fully-fledged film festival since the pandemic, and a truckload of Hollywood stars -- from Timothee Chalamet to Nicole Kidman to Matt Damon -- are expected on the Croisette between July 6 and 17. It's not quite a return to normal, of course, even if France's Covid numbers have been steadily improving and most restrictions lifted. There will be no "bises" -- the French-style peck on the cheeks -- at the top of the fabled steps to the Palais des Festivals. And some of the glitz will be toned down, with many after-parties cancelled and the big galas cutting their invite lists in half to meet social distancing guidelines. Organisers are also slowly waking up to the fact that the sight of celebrities and moguls arriving on private jets and mega-yachts doesn't seem so chic in an age of impending climate disaster. So this year: no plastic, lots of electric cars, and most symbolic of all: a red carpet that is half the size and made from recycled material. Stargazing But our collective need to gawp at megastars on the Cote d'Azur will not be denied. One film in this year's competition accounts for an outsize share of the celeb-count: Wes Anderson's "The French Dispatch" includes Chalamet, Benicio del Toro, Bill Murray and many more. Two other stars of that film -- Tilda Swinton and Lea Seydoux -- will be near-ubiquitous on the Croisette, with appearances in a remarkable eight movies between them. Damon is in town for the premiere of his latest thriller, the Marseilles-set "Stillwater". But Cannes is all about the filmmakers, and after last year's edition was cancelled due to the pandemic, a particularly rich crop of festival alumni is competing for the Palme d'Or. Among those submitting themselves to the famously blunt audiences of Cannes are several past winners: Italy's Nanni Moretti with his new film "Tre Piani", France's Jacques Audiard ("Les Olympiades") and Thailand's master of the slow-burn Apichatpong Weerasethakul with his English-language debut ("Memoria"). The opening night film is also a first in English for France's Leo Carax, directing Adam Driver and Marion Cotillard in what is certain to be a bizarre and visually arresting musical about a celebrity couple and their mysterious child, "Annette". Dutch shockmeister Paul Verhoeven, who made his name with Hollywood megahits like "Robocop" and "Basic Instinct", continues his late run of (slightly) more subtle European fare with "Benedetta" about lesbian nuns in 17th century Italy. Sean Penn will also be hoping for a personal resurrection after his catastrophic Cannes appearance in 2016, when his Africa-based humanitarian love story "The Last Face" was mercilessly booed. He is aiming for a warmer reception to "Flag Day", starring himself and his daughter Dylan. Also Read | US calls report of China building more than 100 nuclear missile silos 'concerning' Also in the competition are Iran's two-time Oscar winner Asghar Farhadi, who returns with "A Hero", and Russia's Kirill Serebrennikov, who is unable to attend due to an embezzlement conviction that is widely seen as punishment for criticising Vladimir Putin. Gender imbalance The panel judging the 24 entries is headed by US director Spike Lee -- the first time a black man has led the jury -- and includes "The Serpent" star Tahar Rahim and US actress Maggie Gyllenhaal. With just four female directors in the competition, the festival's tendency to pick the usual (male) suspects of the arthouse elite is once again under scrutiny. Only one woman has won the top Palme d'Or prize in 73 editions of the festival: Jane Campion for "The Piano" in 1993. The selection is more balanced in the other sections, however, with over half the entries in the independent Directors' Fortnight and International Critics Week coming from women directors. US actor-director Jodie Foster will likely field questions on the subject as she picks up an honorary Palme. There is plenty happening outside the competitions, including a first showing of Oliver Stone's new documentary about the JFK assassination, updating his feature-length conspiracy theory from 1991. That will play in the new Cannes Premiere section, along with other intriguing documentaries: one about troubled star Val Kilmer ("Val") and Charlotte Gainsbourg's ode to her mother Jane Birkin ("Jane").

Cinema glitz returns with a reborn Cannes

It was a good, grounded and witty friend who, one fine day, brought up this topic.&nbsp;

“You are a Bong living in the so-called Culture-capital, so tell me – why is there always a funny smile, a tragic sigh, a soulful nodding of the head, raising of the eyebrows and sentences starting with a fatigued ... How can you bear to enjoy those films? &nbsp;I can’t sit through them for more than 5 minutes! This is mostly followed by speeches on the masters, ending invariably, in hushed tones, about Cahier Du Cinema? Do enlighten a lesser mortal, residing in Versova, the heart of Masalaville!”&nbsp;

After I laughed loud, hard and long, I consoled him by admitting that I fully agreed with his observation. There indeed exists one hugely hyper section of people who can effortlessly provide you with discomfort &amp; complex if you aren’t in love with Fellini, Kieslowski, Kurosawa, Antonioni &amp; Bergman and make you feel like a moron lacking in the proper cultural pedigree; a 7-star dumbo in the speak-converse-debate-enlighten department. &nbsp;

After I gave him a little brief on Cahier Du Cinema, its importance and significance, he re-entered the conversation with all guns blazing. &nbsp;

“Thanks for your Cahier yak, but what’s the big deal about a 50s museum piece, French new-wave mag making such a hoo-haa with a bunch of about-to-pop-it antiquated bozos? This is 2021 for chrissake! Even the Pandemic appears to be on the way out. We are not historians, academics or critics, yaar. Dump the paralysis through analysis crap and get a vaccine for these kill-joys! As the super song in 3 Idiots went ... Give me some sunshine ...”

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/opinion-is-2021-the-year-of-actor-vs-star-showdown-360345">Opinion: Is 2021 the year of Actor vs Star showdown?</a>

While I disagreed with his sweeping and flamboyant dismissal of anything beyond the Bollywood entertainer, I totally rocked with his pulling the trigger on the species who have a cardiac if you haven’t heard or seen Battleship Potemkin! Or [snored through?] many of the revered gems showcased in the film festivals, raved about by people, most of whom are totally clueless about why exactly they are feeling so viagrised on seeing unfamiliar, grim, esoteric and metaphysical content exploring the human condition. Its hysterically funny checking out their response when asked about their opinion, post the screening ... A confusing, bewildered, ashened smile!

The answer to this million-buck question lies in the fact there are three kinds of audiences that hit this territory. &nbsp;

One, a minority who genuinely wants to see, enjoy or be initiated into this alternate space and believes that with time, patience &amp; discussions will get the true meaning of these gems &amp; begin to connect with them.&nbsp;

Two, people who are curious &amp; open about this genre and want to check out these soul-uplifting masterpieces raved about by their arty friends.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/michael-b-jordan-celebrates-late-chadwick-bosemans-historic-sag-nomination-361946">Michael B Jordan celebrates late Chadwick Boseman's historic SAG nomination</a>&nbsp;

Three – and this is the section in question – the cultural wanna-bees desperate to hit the “respectability &amp; fitting in” button. Ordinary people who can’t be accused of sensibilities or interests beyond the entertaining blockbusters, but suddenly crazily anxious not to be perceived as someone who is frivolous or views movies as time-pass BUT as sensitive connoisseurs who look at Cinema as an agent of change, truth 24 times a second, artistic exploration of linear truths that reside in the human soul. &nbsp;

This – they believe – will give them a special aura, status and will allow them to enter the charmed circle where their book-jacket-inspired comments &amp; coffee-table wit will be applauded by the like-minded frat!

To each his own, but the problem with this attitude is the hi-decibel inflicting and imposing of opinion on the unguarded &amp; un-interested guy’s throat with aggressive force! &nbsp;The 'My way or the highway' thing, frequently followed by the [yawn!] gyaan of how masala films have ruined the taste buds of the nation, how compulsory film education must be kicked in ASAP blah, blah, blah.&nbsp;

While the intent may be admirable, it is this fierce, non-negotiable thrust that demands enquiry. The lack of tolerance, the condescending look and tone of the wild-eyed art-wallah at anyone who stoops to sample anything beyond the gems could get a weak-kneed bloke to start writing his will, or seriously considering which exact spot is ideal to leap from his 16th floor balcony.&nbsp;

Fact is, taste for the more refined and the desire to want to be challenged [not spoon-fed or catered to] depends mostly on the environment in which one has grown up and influences that have shaped &amp; formed one’s sensibilities.&nbsp;

Sometimes, it is also acquired through the company one keeps and at other times [very rare, though] – it is instinctive. These are factors to be considered before flaunting cultural superiority because the recipients are creatures of a lesser god. &nbsp;

They are therefore unable to connect with complex or thought-provoking content that demands solid participation while viewing a film. &nbsp;To the everyday audience, movies still spell entertainment, a blessed out escapist trip to the never-never-land-of-happy-ever-after!&nbsp;

Their instant retort is: Why should I pay and think? It’s your job to think how best you can entertain me and you better get it right, or else ...! Fly me to the moon and let me play among the stars ...

Ultimately, it really boils down to live and let live. Forget the obsession of playing Masterji &amp; evangelist and trying to convert every non-art house soul to a disciple. Most will either ponder how you’ve been actually certified sane, vanish from sight every time you enter their frame or wonder what terrible things one did in one’s last life to suffer these OMG moments.&nbsp;

It also reflects poorly on these self-styled brand ambassadors of this genre because it shows them off as uncivilized people, pompous and self-righteous, the definitive, argumentative Indian who must prove his point, come what may. It doesn’t strike them that beyond bad manners, the lesser mortals are not obliged to listen, do cartwheels or go down on bended knees with gratitude for these pearls of wisdom. Labelled Mr. Bak-Bak and boring, they are likely to head their drop-dead list of creatures the world should quickly forget!

At a personal level, the two amazing exponents of the inclusive, pluralistic, accommodating and reach-out school have been my late dad-in-law, Mr. Chidananda Das Gupta &amp; filmmaker Shyam Benegal. Both were curious, interested, attentive and listened intently to your raves about Bollywood films, eager to pick up any new insights they may have missed. &nbsp;

Das Gupta, while not really into the mainstream commercial, was always enthusiastic and eager to remain updated about trends in masala land &amp; I remember how excited he was, years ago, when I explained to him the Angry Young Man phenomenon gripping Bollywood &amp; the masses. Benegal was of course completely in tune with the times and so, whether it was Kieslowski or the Khans, his takes were always engaging &amp; fascinatingly insightful. &nbsp;

Neither of these eminent personalities ever offered gyaan or flung hard-to-pronounce names of world cinema with affected flourish. &nbsp;Nor were they humouring or indulging you. They simply and interestingly decoded the best of the alternate cinema &amp; suggested – along with the masala stuff – checking out some of their material. &nbsp;It was always done in a warm, friendly and seductively un-threatening manner &amp; always with a good word for the commercial cinema because they genuinely saw lots of good things in many Bollywood films.

In a world filled with Guru-giri or posturing, it is hugely gratifying to follow the itinerary of sane, imaginative and cultured minds, showcasing civilised discourse, drawing readers &amp; people into a space where even the most complex film-makers &amp; films become intimate companions. &nbsp;Theirs is the art of de-mystifying cinema without making confusion, more confounded! &nbsp;Clearly there is a lesson somewhere for both, the learned Gurus of Cinema or the one’s posturing as devotees of Cahier Du Cinema ... will they pay heed?

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

It was a good, grounded and witty friend who, one fine day, brought up this topic. “You are a Bong living in the so-called Culture-capital, so tell me – why is there always a funny smile, a tragic sigh, a soulful nodding of the head, raising of the eyebrows and sentences starting with a fatigued .

It was a good, grounded and witty friend who, one fine day, brought up this topic. “You are a Bong living in the so-called Culture-capital, so tell me – why is there always a funny smile, a tragic sigh, a soulful nodding of the head, raising of the eyebrows and sentences starting with a fatigued ... How can you bear to enjoy those films? I can’t sit through them for more than 5 minutes! This is mostly followed by speeches on the masters, ending invariably, in hushed tones, about Cahier Du Cinema? Do enlighten a lesser mortal, residing in Versova, the heart of Masalaville!” After I laughed loud, hard and long, I consoled him by admitting that I fully agreed with his observation. There indeed exists one hugely hyper section of people who can effortlessly provide you with discomfort & complex if you aren’t in love with Fellini, Kieslowski, Kurosawa, Antonioni & Bergman and make you feel like a moron lacking in the proper cultural pedigree; a 7-star dumbo in the speak-converse-debate-enlighten department. After I gave him a little brief on Cahier Du Cinema, its importance and significance, he re-entered the conversation with all guns blazing. “Thanks for your Cahier yak, but what’s the big deal about a 50s museum piece, French new-wave mag making such a hoo-haa with a bunch of about-to-pop-it antiquated bozos? This is 2021 for chrissake! Even the Pandemic appears to be on the way out. We are not historians, academics or critics, yaar. Dump the paralysis through analysis crap and get a vaccine for these kill-joys! As the super song in 3 Idiots went ... Give me some sunshine ...” Also Read | Opinion: Is 2021 the year of Actor vs Star showdown? While I disagreed with his sweeping and flamboyant dismissal of anything beyond the Bollywood entertainer, I totally rocked with his pulling the trigger on the species who have a cardiac if you haven’t heard or seen Battleship Potemkin! Or [snored through?] many of the revered gems showcased in the film festivals, raved about by people, most of whom are totally clueless about why exactly they are feeling so viagrised on seeing unfamiliar, grim, esoteric and metaphysical content exploring the human condition. Its hysterically funny checking out their response when asked about their opinion, post the screening ... A confusing, bewildered, ashened smile! The answer to this million-buck question lies in the fact there are three kinds of audiences that hit this territory. One, a minority who genuinely wants to see, enjoy or be initiated into this alternate space and believes that with time, patience & discussions will get the true meaning of these gems & begin to connect with them. Two, people who are curious & open about this genre and want to check out these soul-uplifting masterpieces raved about by their arty friends. Also Read | Michael B Jordan celebrates late Chadwick Boseman's historic SAG nomination Three – and this is the section in question – the cultural wanna-bees desperate to hit the “respectability & fitting in” button. Ordinary people who can’t be accused of sensibilities or interests beyond the entertaining blockbusters, but suddenly crazily anxious not to be perceived as someone who is frivolous or views movies as time-pass BUT as sensitive connoisseurs who look at Cinema as an agent of change, truth 24 times a second, artistic exploration of linear truths that reside in the human soul. This – they believe – will give them a special aura, status and will allow them to enter the charmed circle where their book-jacket-inspired comments & coffee-table wit will be applauded by the like-minded frat! To each his own, but the problem with this attitude is the hi-decibel inflicting and imposing of opinion on the unguarded & un-interested guy’s throat with aggressive force! The 'My way or the highway' thing, frequently followed by the [yawn!] gyaan of how masala films have ruined the taste buds of the nation, how compulsory film education must be kicked in ASAP blah, blah, blah. While the intent may be admirable, it is this fierce, non-negotiable thrust that demands enquiry. The lack of tolerance, the condescending look and tone of the wild-eyed art-wallah at anyone who stoops to sample anything beyond the gems could get a weak-kneed bloke to start writing his will, or seriously considering which exact spot is ideal to leap from his 16th floor balcony. Fact is, taste for the more refined and the desire to want to be challenged [not spoon-fed or catered to] depends mostly on the environment in which one has grown up and influences that have shaped & formed one’s sensibilities. Sometimes, it is also acquired through the company one keeps and at other times [very rare, though] – it is instinctive. These are factors to be considered before flaunting cultural superiority because the recipients are creatures of a lesser god. They are therefore unable to connect with complex or thought-provoking content that demands solid participation while viewing a film. To the everyday audience, movies still spell entertainment, a blessed out escapist trip to the never-never-land-of-happy-ever-after! Their instant retort is: Why should I pay and think? It’s your job to think how best you can entertain me and you better get it right, or else ...! Fly me to the moon and let me play among the stars ... Ultimately, it really boils down to live and let live. Forget the obsession of playing Masterji & evangelist and trying to convert every non-art house soul to a disciple. Most will either ponder how you’ve been actually certified sane, vanish from sight every time you enter their frame or wonder what terrible things one did in one’s last life to suffer these OMG moments. It also reflects poorly on these self-styled brand ambassadors of this genre because it shows them off as uncivilized people, pompous and self-righteous, the definitive, argumentative Indian who must prove his point, come what may. It doesn’t strike them that beyond bad manners, the lesser mortals are not obliged to listen, do cartwheels or go down on bended knees with gratitude for these pearls of wisdom. Labelled Mr. Bak-Bak and boring, they are likely to head their drop-dead list of creatures the world should quickly forget! At a personal level, the two amazing exponents of the inclusive, pluralistic, accommodating and reach-out school have been my late dad-in-law, Mr. Chidananda Das Gupta & filmmaker Shyam Benegal. Both were curious, interested, attentive and listened intently to your raves about Bollywood films, eager to pick up any new insights they may have missed. Das Gupta, while not really into the mainstream commercial, was always enthusiastic and eager to remain updated about trends in masala land & I remember how excited he was, years ago, when I explained to him the Angry Young Man phenomenon gripping Bollywood & the masses. Benegal was of course completely in tune with the times and so, whether it was Kieslowski or the Khans, his takes were always engaging & fascinatingly insightful. Neither of these eminent personalities ever offered gyaan or flung hard-to-pronounce names of world cinema with affected flourish. Nor were they humouring or indulging you. They simply and interestingly decoded the best of the alternate cinema & suggested – along with the masala stuff – checking out some of their material. It was always done in a warm, friendly and seductively un-threatening manner & always with a good word for the commercial cinema because they genuinely saw lots of good things in many Bollywood films. In a world filled with Guru-giri or posturing, it is hugely gratifying to follow the itinerary of sane, imaginative and cultured minds, showcasing civilised discourse, drawing readers & people into a space where even the most complex film-makers & films become intimate companions. Theirs is the art of de-mystifying cinema without making confusion, more confounded! Clearly there is a lesson somewhere for both, the learned Gurus of Cinema or the one’s posturing as devotees of Cahier Du Cinema ... will they pay heed? (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion: Ok you watch arthouse films, but does it make you superior?

Sitting in gondolas, moviegoers in the Philippine capital are enjoying films while keeping safe amid the coronavirus pandemic. The Venice Grand Canal set up a screen in an outdoor "canal" of the upscale mall earlier in December and started showing films for those who miss the big screen as theatres have been closed since mid-March to stop the spread of the virus.

Philippines: Float-in cinema helps Manila moviegoers with social distancing

Hollywood star Tom Hanks has weighed in on the discussion surrounding the future of cinema halls post COVID-19 pandemic. 
 
The actor feels the shift to the streaming world is a due change and says that movie theatres will survive the pandemic. 
 
In an interview with Collider, Hanks spoke&nbsp;about the impact of the pandemic on the entertainment business, and the shift of many films&nbsp;on streaming services. 
 
"A sea change was due, anyway. It was coming, "Hanks said, sharing that the streaming platforms have allowed viewers to watch movies from their homes. 
 
"Will movie theatres still exist? Absolutely, they will. In some ways, I think the exhibitors -- once they`re up and open -- are going to have the freedom of choice of what movies they`re going to play," Hanks shared. 
 
Hanks believes theatres will remain to be the go-to release option for big-budget franchises. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-tom-hanks-saddles-up-for-first-western-in-news-of-the-world-351691">Also read: Tom Hanks saddles up for first Western in 'News of the World'</a> 
 
He said: "Big event motion pictures are going to rule the day at the cinemas. `News of the World` might be the last adult movie about people saying interesting things that are going to play on a big screen somewhere, because after this, in order to guarantee that people show up again, we`re going to have the Marvel Universe and all sorts of franchises." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/famous-people-who-tested-positive-for-coronavirus-286352">Also see: Famous people who tested positive for coronavirus</a> 
 
Hanks continued: "You want to see them (franchise films) writ large because watching them at home on your couch actually might diminish them somehow in their visual punch. But the sea change that has been brought by Covid-19 has been a slow train coming. I think there will be an awful lot of movies that will only be streamed, and I think it will be fine to see them that way because they will actually be built and made and constructed for somebody`s pretty good widescreen TV at their home."

Hollywood star Tom Hanks has weighed in on the discussion surrounding the future of cinema halls post COVID-19 pandemic. The actor feels the shift to the streaming world is a due change and says that movie theatres will survive the pandemic.

Hollywood star Tom Hanks has weighed in on the discussion surrounding the future of cinema halls post COVID-19 pandemic. The actor feels the shift to the streaming world is a due change and says that movie theatres will survive the pandemic. In an interview with Collider, Hanks spoke about the impact of the pandemic on the entertainment business, and the shift of many films on streaming services. "A sea change was due, anyway. It was coming, "Hanks said, sharing that the streaming platforms have allowed viewers to watch movies from their homes. "Will movie theatres still exist? Absolutely, they will. In some ways, I think the exhibitors -- once they`re up and open -- are going to have the freedom of choice of what movies they`re going to play," Hanks shared. Hanks believes theatres will remain to be the go-to release option for big-budget franchises. Also read: Tom Hanks saddles up for first Western in 'News of the World' He said: "Big event motion pictures are going to rule the day at the cinemas. `News of the World` might be the last adult movie about people saying interesting things that are going to play on a big screen somewhere, because after this, in order to guarantee that people show up again, we`re going to have the Marvel Universe and all sorts of franchises." Also see: Famous people who tested positive for coronavirus Hanks continued: "You want to see them (franchise films) writ large because watching them at home on your couch actually might diminish them somehow in their visual punch. But the sea change that has been brought by Covid-19 has been a slow train coming. I think there will be an awful lot of movies that will only be streamed, and I think it will be fine to see them that way because they will actually be built and made and constructed for somebody`s pretty good widescreen TV at their home."

Tom Hanks feels theatres will survive COVID-19 pandemic

Hollywood sold you the American dream. James Bond marketed the Great Britain. What did Bollywood do? Celebrated relocating to the west, and reduced India to a land of entertainer! Who is responsible? Watch Gravitas Plus with Palki Sharma.

Gravitas Plus: How India can harness the soft power of Bollywood

A German cinema operator is putting all his hopes for financial survival during the coronavirus crisis into director Christopher Nolan's new thriller "Tenet" which premiered on Wednesday night (August 26) in Bonn and 70 countries around the world.

Christopher Nolan's Tenet finally arrives in German cinemas after lengthy coronavirus delay

Starry affair: Paris to Israel- Cinema lovers opt for 'sail-in' experiences in 'new normal'

Movie-goers boarded boats floating on the shimmering waters of a Tel Aviv lake on Thursday (August 20) for a test screening at Israel's first "sail-in" cinema.

'Sail-in' cinema pops up in Tel Aviv, with indoor flicks off-limits

The world of cinema is having to adapt to new rules set by the pandemic but some are more creative than others. In Paris, you can now watch your favourite movie while enjoying a boat ride on the Seine river.

The magic of movies on water: Movie goers hire boats to enjoy french comedy

While the cinema drive-in may have gotten a boost as lockdowns gradually come to an end amid the COVID-19 outbreak, in Paris film fans can now munch on their popcorn watching a movie from a boat on the river Seine. 
 
As part of Paris Plages, the yearly transformation of sections of the Seine into man-made beaches, moviegoers on Saturday were able to board 38 electric boats for a free showing of the 2018 French comedy 'Le Grand Bain'. 
 
"I really enjoy open-air cinema. It marks the beginning of the summer, and even if we already are in mid-July, for me it marks the beginning of the Parisian summer adventures," said 25-year-old Eloise Blomme. 
 
"I really enjoy the idea of the boats - associating the Seine with a movie on water, I didn`t want to miss this." 
Each boat can seat up to six people who know each other. 
 
Organisers hope to hold similar showings during the six-week Paris Plages festivities. Others watch from deck chairs as the screen floats over the Seine. 
 
Cinemas have reopened in France, but occupancy levels remain very low. While the virus has been under control with fatalities and the number of people in intensive care falling, daily cases have increased ahead of the summer holiday season.&nbsp; 
 
The disease has killed more than 30,000 people in France. The artificial beaches on the banks of the Seine in central Paris and the Bassin de la Villette, a man-made lake in the northeast of the city, have been a roaring success since they were launched by Paris Mayor Bertrand Delanoe in 2002. 
 
As well as sand and views of central Paris’ architecture, Paris Plage offers sporting opportunities such as fencing, giant table-football, and open-air gyms looking out over the Seine, although this year the tighter health restrictions have limited some of the activities.

While the cinema drive-in may have gotten a boost as lockdowns gradually come to an end amid the COVID-19 outbreak, in Paris film fans can now munch on their popcorn watching a movie from a boat on the river Seine.

While the cinema drive-in may have gotten a boost as lockdowns gradually come to an end amid the COVID-19 outbreak, in Paris film fans can now munch on their popcorn watching a movie from a boat on the river Seine. As part of Paris Plages, the yearly transformation of sections of the Seine into man-made beaches, moviegoers on Saturday were able to board 38 electric boats for a free showing of the 2018 French comedy 'Le Grand Bain'. "I really enjoy open-air cinema. It marks the beginning of the summer, and even if we already are in mid-July, for me it marks the beginning of the Parisian summer adventures," said 25-year-old Eloise Blomme. "I really enjoy the idea of the boats - associating the Seine with a movie on water, I didn`t want to miss this." Each boat can seat up to six people who know each other. Organisers hope to hold similar showings during the six-week Paris Plages festivities. Others watch from deck chairs as the screen floats over the Seine. Cinemas have reopened in France, but occupancy levels remain very low. While the virus has been under control with fatalities and the number of people in intensive care falling, daily cases have increased ahead of the summer holiday season. The disease has killed more than 30,000 people in France. The artificial beaches on the banks of the Seine in central Paris and the Bassin de la Villette, a man-made lake in the northeast of the city, have been a roaring success since they were launched by Paris Mayor Bertrand Delanoe in 2002. As well as sand and views of central Paris’ architecture, Paris Plage offers sporting opportunities such as fencing, giant table-football, and open-air gyms looking out over the Seine, although this year the tighter health restrictions have limited some of the activities.

Movie magic as Paris turns the Seine into open-air cinema

The novel coronavirus pandemic has led to theatres across the world to remain shut leading to losses incurred on a daily basis for the entertainment industries. Now, the Multiplex Association of India (MAI) has expressed disappointment as cinemas continue to remain shut even though other entertainment outlets have been allowed to resume work.&nbsp;

In a statement, MAI said, “As compared to unorganised retail shops that have opened up, multiplexes and cinema are part of the organised sector, playing hosts to ‘revenue paying’ customers only and hence, in a better position to limit crowds unlike marketplaces and deploy all the mechanisms and guidelines for crowd control and social distancing.”

“The livelihoods of more than a million people – right from spot boys to make-up artistes, musicians, designers, technicians and engineers to cinema employees to directors and actors – hinges on the survival of Indian cinema,” the statement further said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ace-bollywood-choreographer-saroj-khan-dies-of-cardiac-arrest-310331">Also read:&nbsp;Ace choreographer Saroj Khan dies of cardiac arrest</a>

The association also pointed out that the multiplex industry alone employs more than 200,000 people directly and that it accounts for nearly 60 per cent of film business revenues.

MAI has urged for an early decision to allow cinemas to open up which will help mobilization of resources in the film industry’s ecosystem and would lead to gradual resurrection.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/sadak-2-poster-complaint-filed-against-alia-mahesh-bhatt-for-hurting-hindu-sentiments-310425" hreflang="en">'Sadak 2' poster: Complaint filed against Alia, Mahesh Bhatt for hurting Hindu sentiments</a>

“In fact, even after opening up, we anticipate at least 3-6 months before things return anywhere close to normal,” MAI said.

The novel coronavirus pandemic has led to theatres across the world to remain shut leading to losses incurred on a daily basis for the entertainment industries. Now, the Multiplex Association of India (MAI) has expressed disappointment as cinemas continue to remain shut even though other entertainment outlets have been allowed to resume work.

The novel coronavirus pandemic has led to theatres across the world to remain shut leading to losses incurred on a daily basis for the entertainment industries. Now, the Multiplex Association of India (MAI) has expressed disappointment as cinemas continue to remain shut even though other entertainment outlets have been allowed to resume work. In a statement, MAI said, “As compared to unorganised retail shops that have opened up, multiplexes and cinema are part of the organised sector, playing hosts to ‘revenue paying’ customers only and hence, in a better position to limit crowds unlike marketplaces and deploy all the mechanisms and guidelines for crowd control and social distancing.” “The livelihoods of more than a million people – right from spot boys to make-up artistes, musicians, designers, technicians and engineers to cinema employees to directors and actors – hinges on the survival of Indian cinema,” the statement further said. Also read: Ace choreographer Saroj Khan dies of cardiac arrest The association also pointed out that the multiplex industry alone employs more than 200,000 people directly and that it accounts for nearly 60 per cent of film business revenues. MAI has urged for an early decision to allow cinemas to open up which will help mobilization of resources in the film industry’s ecosystem and would lead to gradual resurrection. Also read: 'Sadak 2' poster: Complaint filed against Alia, Mahesh Bhatt for hurting Hindu sentiments “In fact, even after opening up, we anticipate at least 3-6 months before things return anywhere close to normal,” MAI said.

Multiplex Association of India urges government to let cinemas reopen

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