Los Angeles, May 29 (IANS) Hollywood actress Natalie Portman, who made her debut with ‘Leon: The Professional’, has an illustrious career of 30 years behind her.
But the actress shared that people still “treat her like a child”, reports ‘Female First UK’.The 43-year-old actress, who rose to fame as a child in 1999’s ‘Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace’, insisted that despite growing up in the spotlight and developing a “serious persona” to combat people’s perceptions of her, she is still fighting against it.As per ‘Female First UK’, during a conversation about Jenna Ortega, Natalie told ‘Harper’s Bazaar’ magazine, “We’re both physically tiny, so people will often treat you like a child forever. I’m 43 now, and people kind of pat me on the head. I don’t look like a child, but I often feel like I’m treated like a kid”.She further mentioned, “Child actors often cultivate a serious persona because otherwise they’ll get treated like kids forever. When you start working as a kid, you kind of always feel like a kid in the workplace. Having some of that seriousness helps remind people, ‘I’m a grown-up’. Natalie and Jenna have worked together in new comedy thriller ‘The Gallerist’, and the ‘Fountain of Youth’ actress noticed they have a similar process in between takes”.She explained that they don’t sit in a chair, they just kind of squat in the corner. “Catherine Zeta-Jones, who was also a child actress, said she did it too, that it’s a way of grounding yourself. There’d be all these chairs, but we’d just squat and look at each other and be like, ‘Wow, this is weird’”, she added.Meanwhile, Jenna opened up on how much it’s helped her become friends with the likes of Natalie, Winona Ryder and Natasha Lyonne, who all understand the journey she’s on.She said, “It’s been so beneficial and so cozy. They’ve seen it all, and, honestly, during a much darker time in Hollywood. We’ve all got this jaded way about us that I don’t think we’d have if we hadn’t started so young and had so many brutal realisations and experiences. But they turned out all right”.–IANSaa/

Mumbai, May 29 (IANS) Actress Radhika Apte will next be seen in Karan Kandhari’s “Sister Midnight”. As the versatile diva read the script for the first time, she thought that it was the kind of film that offered the space to experiment.
She said, “It felt very exciting. It was very honest. Karan just had written exactly what he wanted to make without thinking about other things. Like, what would commercial producers think of it? It was solely his vision. There is such sparse dialogue, a lot had to be conveyed through just face and body. I thought that this is that kind of a film where you get to experiment, you really get to try something new.”Sharing his experience of working with Radhika, the filmmaker revealed, “It was the greatest relationship and collaboration I’ve had with an actor ever. And it was like having the best imaginary friend to play with.””The types of performances I go after are quite specific. It’s all behavioural and about removing the intellectual approach to it. Everything Uma does is sort of impulsive and in the present moment. With Radhika, my work was to constantly root ourselves in the body, in the present moment, and react from instinct and intuition.” he added.Penned and helmed by Karan Kandhari, “Sister Midnight” has been backed by Alastair Clark, along with Anna Griffin and Alan McAlex.Featuring Radhika along with Ashok Pathak, Chhaya Kadam, Smita Tambe, and Navya Sawant, the drama has been edited by Napoleon Stratogiannakis and camera work performed by Sverre Sørdal.”Sister Midnight” bagged the nomination for ‘Outstanding British Debut’ at BAFTA Awards 2025.In addition to this, the project was also nominated for the Golden Camera Award in Director’s Fortnight during Cannes 2025.Set against the backdrop of Mumbai’s dense urban life, “Sister Midnight” is scheduled to reach the cinema halls on May 30.–IANSpm/

Mumbai, May 29 (IANS) The makers have unveiled the trailer of the upcoming romantic drama ‘Tu Aashiiki Haii,’ offering a glimpse into a heartfelt tale of destined love. Featuring Abhishek Kumar and Amandeep Sidhu in the lead, the trailer promises a soulful romance where emotions run deep and fate plays a central role in bringing two hearts together. The trailer provides an emotional glimpse into the universe of ‘Tu Aashiiki Haii,’ showcasing a captivating mix of romance, deep emotions, and lyrical narration. At its core lies the gentle love story of Pumma (Abhishek Kumar) and Noor (Amandeep Sidhu)—two kindred spirits meant to unite despite the challenges that threaten their bond at every step.Dreamiyata Dramaa, the production house led by Sargun Mehta and Ravie Dubey, has released the official trailer for their eagerly awaited romantic drama on social media. The show also stars Sheezan Khan and Mahir Pandhi. The series is scheduled to premiere on June 6th.Along with the trailer, the makers have also announced the new title ‘Tu Aashiiki’ Haii’—earlier, it was called ‘Tujhse Hai Aashiqui.’Speaking about his role, Abhishek had earlier shared, “This show is more than just a love story—it’s an emotional ride, and I’m thrilled to be a part of a project that dives so deep into human connection. Working with Dreamiyata Dramaa feels like home already.”Amandeep Sidhu had also expressed her excitement, saying, “The moment I read the script, I knew this character would stay with me forever. There’s strength, vulnerability, and so much passion. I can’t wait for the audience to meet her.”On May 8, the teaser for ‘Tu Aashiiki Haii’ was unveiled, offering a glimpse into Abhishek and Amandeep’s heartfelt romance. Their on-screen chemistry radiated emotional depth and longing, perfectly capturing the essence of a tender and intense love story.–IANSps/

Mumbai, May 29 (IANS) Actress Shalini Pandey has been paired opposite Pulkit Samrat in the forthcoming drama, “Rahu Ketu”. After wrapping up the Mumbai leg of the shoot, the team moved to Kasol for the second schedule of the shoot in Himachal Pradesh.
Sharing a sneak peek from the set of her next, Shalini dropped a behind-the-scenes picture on her Instagram handle, which showed her flaunting her dazzling smile as she enjoyed the mesmerizing beauty of the mountains.Not just that, Shalini also disclosed the name of her character from “Rahu Ketu” – Meenu.The ‘Maharaja’ actress further mentioned in the caption, “Meet Meenu from the sets of my upcoming film:) Can’t wait for you to meet her properly soon! #RahuKetu.”Backed by Zee Studios, the project will also see Pulkit Samrat, and Varun Sharma as part of the core cast. Made under the direction of Vipul Vig, “Rahu Ketu” marks Pulkit’s first on-screen collaboration with Shalini. However, Pulkit and Varun have earlier shared screen space in the popular “Fukrey” franchise.Apart from “Rahu Ketu”, Shalini’s promising lineup for 2025 also includes “Idli Kadai”, opposite Dhanush.She further has “Bandwaale” with Zahaan Kapoor in her kitty.Shalini stepped into Bollywood with Ranveer Singh starrer “Jayeshbhai Jordaar” in 2022. As the project recently completed 3 years of release, she recalled feeling ‘nervous and wide-eyed’ during her B-town debut.Posting some BTS photos from the drama, Shalini penned a nostalgic note on her Instagram saying, “Three years ago, Jayeshbhai Jordaar became my first step into the Hindi Film Industry:) a dream I’d carried (not so quietly) for years It came true with the magic of Yash Raj, the wild brilliance of @ranveersingh, the sheer faith of Adi sir and my amazing director who always believed in my instincts @divyangt I was nervous, wide-eyed, and full of feeling and they let me grow, stumble, fly. A quiet thank you to @shanoosharmarahihai for seeing me at a cafe and changing everything.”–IANSpm/

Mumbai, May 29 (IANS) Indian cinema legend Kamal Haasan, who will be next seen in the upcoming movie ‘Thug Life’, feels that a multi-faceted artiste needs to make best use of their every skill in order to contribute to a story or a film.
The veteran actor spoke with IANS recently ahead of his film’s release and spoke about his collaboration with the 6 time National Award-winning filmmaker Mani Ratnam, who has helmed ‘Thug Life’.When asked if he switches off the director in him while working with another director like Mani in this case, and relies solely on him, Kamal told IANS, “Every faculty should be on. He (Mani Ratnam) should not switch off the actor in him. Because he sometimes tells me to tuck my stomach in. Because I had put on weight at that time. I don’t carry that weight at all”.“In future, what we both are doing that one man will do provided the man utilises all his creative channels. Because the tools will make it easy. The carpenter, in the times of Jesus and the carpenter of today are two different species, that’s how we and our art evolves”, he added.Kamal is reuniting with Mani Ratnam after almost 4 decades with ‘Thug Life’. The two last worked together in ‘Nayakan’ in 1987. A lot has changed in the past 38 years, India opened its economy, witnessed landslide political changes, television peaked, and cinema diversified. Earlier, the veteran actor said that in all of this, cinema has become a language, and a mode of communication for them.Kamal earlier told IANS, “Cinema has become a language. We don’t know how fluent we are in that, but we speak it. And we are improving. Like, we’ve lost the slur that we had. We lost that baby talk that we had. All that is gone now. But we are still, I think, work in progress (sic)”.Produced by Kamal Haasan’s Raaj Kamal Films International, Mani Ratnam’s Madras Talkies, R. Mahendran, and Siva Ananth, ‘Thug Life’ is all set for a worldwide theatrical release on June 5, 2025.–IANSaa/

Chennai, May 29 (IANS) Celebrated actor Dulquer Salmaan has been honored with the prestigious Jury Award at the Telangana State Film Awards, popularly known as the Gaddar Awards, for his standout performance in the much-acclaimed film Lucky Baskhar.
This recognition marks a significant moment in Dulquer’s career, highlighting his dedication to nuanced and emotionally resonant storytelling.In Lucky Baskhar, Dulquer plays the titular role of Baskhar, an ordinary man navigating the trials and triumphs of life in a quietly powerful performance that has struck a chord with both critics and audiences alike. Steering away from conventional heroics, his portrayal was marked by restraint, vulnerability, and an understated intensity—qualities that elevated the character’s journey and made it profoundly relatable.The jury commended Dulquer for bringing authenticity and depth to the role, effectively breathing life into a character whose struggles and aspirations mirrored those of countless common men.“It’s not just a performance; it’s a portrayal of lived experience,” the jury noted in their remarks, emphasizing how his subtle expressions and emotional layering added gravitas to the film’s narrative. This win at the Telangana State Film Awards is not merely a testament to Dulquer’s acting prowess but also to his evolution as a pan-Indian actor unafraid to take risks with roles that challenge convention.Over the years, he has steadily carved a niche for himself by selecting diverse and meaningful projects across Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi cinema. With this latest accolade, Dulquer Salmaan continues to affirm his place as one of Indian cinema’s most versatile and impactful actors—a storyteller at heart whose work transcends boundaries and speaks to the human condition in its truest form.–IANSaal

Los Angeles, May 29 (IANS) Actress Gillian Anderson will be honoured with CineMerit Award at the Munich International Film Festival during its upcoming edition, which runs from June 27 to July 6.

Anderson will be handed the awards during a ceremony at the Deutsches Theater, where the German premiere of her latest film, The Salt Path, will take place, reports deadline.com.“Gillian Anderson’s incredible versatility never ceases to amaze us: an FBI agent, a sex therapist, an Iron Lady,” Munich festival directors Julia Weigl and Christoph Gröner said in a statement.“The Salt Path, adapted from a best-selling novel, reveals a whole new side to her, which we will all get to explore at the Deutsches Theater. By honoring Gillian Anderson, we are saluting a person who embodies much more than an impressive career. She represents strong womanhood and smart decisions, and is a model of principles and integrity.”Anderson’s breakthrough came in the 1990s, when she took the role of FBI Agent Dana Scully in the television series The X-Files.From 2012 to 2015, she starred as Hannibal Lecter’s psychiatrist in the NBC series Hannibal. In 2020, she portrayed Margaret Thatcher in The Crown, which earned her several awards, including an Emmy and a Golden Globe. She is perhaps best known now for her role as the free-spirited sex therapist, Dr. Jean Milburn, in Netflix’s Sex Education.Her latest project, The Salt Path, is directed by Marianne Elliott from a screenplay by Rebecca Lenkiewicz. The film is a drama about a married couple who lose everything and defy fate by choosing to follow a difficult path.Alongside her acting career, Anderson is also an author, producer, and voice artist.She compiled the book Want: Sexual Fantasies by Anonymous, produced the television series The Fall, and narrated documentaries such as The Widowmaker. She was the first woman to direct and write an episode of The X-Files.–IANSdc/

Mumbai, May 29 (IANS) Bollywood actor Arjun Rampal has expressed immense pride and joy as his partner Gabriella Demetriades achieves a long-held dream that she had manifested with determination. Celebrating this special moment, Arjun penned a heartfelt note for his ‘love’, highlighting the inspiring journey behind Gabriella’s success. Sharing a heartfelt video on Instagram, Arjun wrote, “Dreams do come true. You always wanted this and it’s manifested today. @deme_love_ by @gabriellademetriades is @theofficialselfridges. What an achievement my love. We all super proud. Congratulations,” Arjun wrote, tagging Gabriella and her brand. He concluded the post with hashtags like #deme, #gabriellademetriades, #selfridgeslondon, #london, and #dreamer.”The video features Gabriella posing as her fashion label is officially launched at the Selfridges store in London. The clip also captures candid moments of Arjun and Gabriella with their kids, offering a heartwarming glimpse into their family bond amidst the celebration. The ‘Dhaakad’ actor often cheers for his partner Gabriella and regularly shares supportive posts about her achievements on social media, showcasing their strong bond and mutual admiration.For the unversed, Arjun Rampal and Gabriella Demetriades have been in a committed relationship since 2019 and share two sons Arik and Arav. Although the couple hasn’t tied the knot legally, Arjun has mentioned that, for them, their bond goes beyond formalities. During his appearance on YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia’s podcast, the actor opened up about why he and Gabriella have chosen not to get married. He explained that neither of them feels the need for it, questioning the significance of marriage as just a piece of paper.Arjun had mentioned, “It’s not me, it’s not her. What is marriage? A piece of paper after all. I think we are already married and there is not doubt in my mind about that. But, sometimes what that piece of paper can also do is change you. Because its like you think it’s permanent, its a false notion in fact but you are just legally bound.”Professionally, Arjun Rampal was recently seen in the action-packed film ‘Crakk’ and also featured in the popular web series ‘Rana Naidu.’–IANSps/

Mumbai, May 29 (IANS) The South film industry is in deep grief after learning about the passing away of veteran actor Rajesh Williams. He breathed his last in the wee hours of Thursday at the age of 75.Expressing his grief, superstar Rajinikanth penned on his X timeline, “The news of the untimely death of my close friend, actor Rajesh, shocks me and causes me great heartache. A wonderful man, may his soul rest in peace.My deepest condolences to his family and friends.”Another Southern sensation, Kamal Haasan wrote on the micro-blogging site, “Among the actors who were passionate about acting, my dear friend Rajesh was known for his extensive reading and thoughtful reflection on what he read. His passing, having lived his life with enthusiasm and action until the very end, brings great sadness. I express my condolences to the family who are grieving his loss.”Haasan has worked with Rajesh in movies such as “Sathya”, “Mahanadhi”, and “Virumaandi”.Actress Raadhika Sarathkumar, who has shared screen space with the late actor in several movies also paid her respect through a social media post that read, “Deeply shocked and sadden to hear of #rajesh s unexpected demise. Shared so many movies together and had a deep respect to his wide knowledge of cinema and life, will be missed by family, friends and film fraternity. #RIP.”If the reports are to be believed, Rajesh was facing respiratory issues. He is survived by his two children – Diya and Deepak.Rajesh stepped into acting in 1974 with a short but powerful performance in K. Balachander’s “Aval Oru Thodarkathai.”Later on, he went on to make his mark with some notable work in films like “Andha 7 Naatkal”, “Sathya”, “Mahanadi”, and “Virumaandi”.During his tenure, Rajesh has worked with some big names from the South entertainment industry – both actors and directors.–IANSpm/

Mumbai, May 29 (IANS) Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan, who was earlier seen in the streaming movie ‘Jewel Thief – The Heist Begins’, recently attended the Arab Media Summit, 2025 where he shared his views on the possibility of a collaboration with the Arabic media.
The actor spoke at the event, and said that he has always felt a great connection with Arab audiences. The actor is of the opinion that India and Arab nations share a culture, a cinematic culture, and a bond with storytelling.He said, “It’s very special for me to be at the Arab Media Summit to look at the idea, to speak about the possibility of collaboration, and I really look forward to that because the love that Arab audiences give not just to me, but our film industry, is something that’s so important to us and is so phenomenal, and I look forward to some kind of serious collaboration in the future”.He also talked about the dynamics of the Indian film industry, and simultaneously, also expressed his connection with Arab audiences.The potential of a collaboration between the Indian media and Arab media seems interesting and exciting because of the cultural blend it could create, and also the creative fusion it can bring.Meanwhile, Saif was recently seen in the heist thriller, in which he shared the screen with Nikita Dutta, Jaideep Ahlawat and Kunal Kapoor. The actor also has a slew of interesting projects in the pipeline. All of them being big ticket entertainers. Saif Ali Khan is gearing up for the much-anticipated action thriller ‘Race 4’, a biopic in collaboration with director Rahul Dholakia, an untitled project with Priyadarshan, and another untitled project with Hansal Mehta.–IANSaa/