Dec. 28: A Momentous Day in History Highlights Judicial Decisions, Cinema Milestones, and Major Birthdays

Today marks a momentous day in history, as we reach the 363rd day of the year 2024 with only three days remaining. This date has been witness to several key events that have shaped our world in various spheres, from groundbreaking advancements in cinema to pivotal legislative enactments. It was on December 28, 2015, when a significant legal decision came out of Cleveland, as a grand jury chose not to indict two white officers in the death of Tamir Rice, a 12-year-old Black boy who was shot while holding a toy pellet gun. The decision … Read more

Controversy Erupts Over Oscar Submission: Claims of Jury Pressure and Missed Opportunities in Indian Cinema

Mumbai, India — The selection of India’s official entry for the Oscars has stirred a significant controversy this year, overshadowing the accolades received by various domestic films. Aamir Khan’s production, “Laapata Ladies,” was chosen over other critically acclaimed movies, such as “All We Imagine As Light,” sparking debates about the influence of celebrity power on the jury’s decision-making process. The jury, consisting of 13 members, originally favored Chaitanya Tamhane’s “Court” in a previous selection cycle, hinting at the ongoing tension between artistic merit and star influence. Allegations have surfaced that prominent Bollywood figures have exerted … Read more

Zoya Akhtar Joins Global Cinema Elites at Marrakech Film Festival’s Star-Studded Opening

Marrakech, Morocco — The 21st Marrakech Film Festival, a prestigious cinema event, commenced recently with a glittering array of international film talents gracing the red carpet. Among the notable attendees was Indian filmmaker Zoya Akhtar, who is serving on the jury panel this year. The panel, chaired by acclaimed director Luca Guadagnino, also includes luminaries such as Hollywood actors Andrew Garfield and Jacob Elordi, Iranian filmmaker Ali Abbasi, Argentine director Santiago Mitre, and Moroccan actor Nadia Kounda. Patricia Arquette, the celebrated American actress, and Belgian-French actor Virginie Efira are also contributing their expertise to the … Read more

Cinema Celebrates Culture and Resilience: Winners Shine at the 46th Festival des 3 Continents in Nantes

Nantes, France — The Festival des 3 Continents, famed for celebrating cinema from Asia, Africa, and Latin America, saw a significant demonstration of resilience and unity in its 46th edition amidst abrupt funding cuts from regional authorities. Despite the financial shakeup, a surge in attendance underscored the community’s unwavering support for the festival and the broader arts and culture sector. The event, held in the culturally vibrant city of Nantes, spotlighted a rich tapestry of global cinema, drawing an enthusiastic crowd eager to partake in this annual cinematic journey across three continents. In a striking … Read more