National Film Awards Suspend Choreographer Jani Master’s Honor Amidst Sexual Assault Allegations

New Delhi, India — In a significant turn of events, the acclaimed South Indian choreographer, Jani Master, who was poised to receive the National Award for Best Choreography, has had his accolade suspended following serious allegations of sexual assault. The National Film Awards Cell, operating under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, also rescinded his invitation to the awards ceremony scheduled for October 8 in New Delhi. Jani Master, originally named Shaik Jani Basha, was slated to be honored for his work in the 2022 film “Thiruchitrambalam,” featuring popular actor Dhanush. However, his arrest has … Read more

Groundbreaking Gujarati Film ‘Hellaro’ Premieres on ShemarooMe, Celebrating Women’s Empowerment During Navratri

Mumbai, India – The critically acclaimed Gujarati film “Hellaro,” celebrated for its vivid portrayal of women’s empowerment, is set to make its streaming debut on ShemarooMe starting October 2, 2024, coinciding with the Navratri festival. The film is notable for being the first Gujarati film to clinch the National Award for Best Feature Film, touching hearts with its stirring narrative of women challenging the confines of their oppressive culture. “Hellaro” has not only captivated audiences but has also shone brightly at various eminent film festivals, amassing worldwide accolades. It received a Special Jury Award at … Read more

Iranian Filmmaker Mohammad Rasoulof to Lead Jury at Kyiv International Film Festival Amid Personal Triumphs and Trials

Kyiv, Ukraine – The prestigious Kyiv International Film Festival Molodist has named Mohammad Rasoulof, a renowned Iranian independent filmmaker, as the head of its jury for the upcoming international competition. Known for his impactful and controversial works, Rasoulof’s role underscores the festival’s commitment to highlighting cinematic voices that challenge societal and political norms. Rasoulof’s journey to this position is as dramatic as the plots of his films. In May 2024, he made a daring escape from Iran following a severe sentence of eight years in prison, lashes, and property confiscation imposed for creating work deemed … Read more

Albert Serra’s ‘Afternoons of Solitude’ Clinches Golden Shell at 72nd San Sebastian Film Festival

San Sebastian, Spain – The San Sebastian Film Festival, now in its 72nd year, concluded recently with Albert Serra’s “Afternoons of Solitude” clinching the Golden Shell award for best film. This documentary, which delves into the world of bullfighting, features Peruvian-Spanish bullfighter Andrés Roca Rey and has received acclaim for its intense and raw portrayal of the sport’s underbelly. “Afternoons of Solitude” stood out among a variety of compelling entries in this year’s festival, including notable narrative features by filmmakers such as Joshua Oppenheimer and Edward Berger, and a dystopian musical by Mike Leigh titled … Read more