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Nicole Kidman Reflects on Collaborating with 19 Female Directors Since 2017

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Nicole Kidman has consistently championed women’s roles in filmmaking, demonstrating her commitment through action rather than just words. Since the #MeToo movement in 2017, the Oscar-winning actress has partnered with female directors on over 19 projects, far surpassing her initial goal of collaborating with a woman filmmaker every 18 months.In an interview with Time, Kidman addressed the hurdles that first-time female directors often face, particularly the immense pressure to be “perfect” from the outset. “That can be changed,” she stated. “But it only happens when we actively choose to engage with films led by women.”

Kidman’s dedication to this cause began at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival, where she pledged to work with a female director every 18 months. However, she quickly realized that timeline needed to be more ambitious. “In my head, I thought, ‘18 months? That’s too long.’ So I decided it would be every six months to a year,” she recounted.

Her philosophy is straightforward: dive in and take action. “It requires not being precious about it. Just saying, ‘Let’s go, let’s go, let’s go.’ And when you make a public commitment like that, you hold yourself accountable,” she explained.

True to her word, Kidman has actively pursued female-led projects. Most recently, she starred in ‘Babygirl’, an erotic thriller directed by Halina Reijn. She also lent her voice to Vicky Jensen and Jorge Blanco’s animated film ‘Spellbound’ (2024) and appeared in Karyn Kusama’s ‘Destroyer’ (2018). Next month, she’ll feature in Mimi Cave’s thriller ‘Holland’, which will premiere at SXSW.

For Kidman, this commitment goes beyond her individual choices; it aims to transform the industry as a whole. “At this stage in my life, I can support female directors repeatedly. It’s a very conscious choice,” Kidman affirmed. “I’m not going to go years without working with a woman. I will seek them out and continue to do it—because that’s what matters right now.”

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Aamar Boss: Raakhee Gulzar Shines in Every Frame of Shiboprosad Mukherjee and Nandita Roy’s Superb Family Drama

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Rating: *** ½
The directorial team of Shiboprosad Mukherjee and Nandita Roy has successfully revitalized Bengali cinema with their 2024 blockbuster true-crime thriller, Bohurupi.

Their latest film, Aamar Boss, showcases a heartwarming yet thought-provoking narrative that marks a departure from their previous work.

This film brings more familial complexity and a polished aesthetic than typically seen in Bangla cinema. Much of the film’s charm and finesse can be attributed to Raakhee Gulzar, who shines as the formidable matriarch Shubra Goswami, illuminating every scene. Her absence is felt when she is not on screen, although the supporting cast is strong, particularly Sauraseni Maitra as Sarbani, a publisher’s employee navigating her own challenges alongside Animesh Goswami (played with depth by Shiboprosad Mukherjee).

Mukherjee’s portrayal of a son trying to balance his mother’s strong will and his own aspirations is a nuanced performance. He delicately navigates the tension between duty and personal ambition in his quest to be a good son.

The film captures the mother’s idealized self-image clashing with reality, with the actress adeptly conveying a range of emotions through her expressions alone.

However, the narrative sometimes resorts to a simplistic depiction of complex family dynamics. For instance, the critical issue of elder care is presented through quirky, one-dimensional characters rather than the nuanced realities of caregiving.

There’s also an awkward comedic relief involving a drunken poet that feels out of place, like adding unnecessary spices to an already flavorful dish.

Despite the heavier themes, the film maintains a sense of joy, ensuring that even in moments of conflict between mother and son, there is an underlying hope that despair will not prevail.

Aamar Boss celebrates family bonds through vibrant music, dance, and joyous storytelling. Personally, I found Animesh’s relationship with his mother far more compelling than his tumultuous connection with his wife, Moushumi (Srabanti Chatterjee), who seems troubled and insecure.

Women with career aspirations still face challenges in our cinema. Nevertheless, Sauraseni Maitra’s portrayal of Sharbani singing Tagore’s ‘Madhuro tomar shesh je na pai’ is a moment of pure beauty. Time seems to stand still as Raakhee’s Shubra would likely encourage Sharbani to narrate an audiobook of Tagore’s works.

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Shah Rukh Khan Surprises during London Rehearsals of DDLJ Musical

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Bollywood’s romantic icon, Shah Rukh Khan, made a surprise appearance at the rehearsals for “Come Fall in Love – The DDLJ Musical” in London. This production is a fresh take on the classic 1995 film “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge,” poised for its UK premiere next year. The original “Raj” couldn’t resist dropping by to offer his support.

SRK’s unexpected visit instantly energized the rehearsal space. He took the time to meet each team member and stayed to watch scenes being performed, some of which he had famously portrayed nearly thirty years ago.

For the cast, it was nothing short of magical. Jena Pandya, who leads the production, expressed her awe: “It was a true honor to have him with us. He was incredibly generous with his time, and performing those iconic scenes in front of the person who first brought them to life was an unforgettable experience.”

Ashley Day, who plays a character inspired by Raj, shared similar sentiments: “When he entered, the atmosphere changed completely. It became quiet, almost reverential. You could sense the profound impact it had on all of us. He welcomed everyone with warmth and genuine excitement, and kept asking to see more! It was an unparalleled experience.”

Directed by Aditya Chopra, the mastermind behind the original film, the musical transcends mere retelling. It brings DDLJ’s enduring themes of love, tradition, and freedom to a new generation through song, dance, and theatricality.

Set to premiere at Manchester’s Palace Opera House on May 29, 2025, and running until June 21, the show features a fresh English adaptation. The music is also undergoing a transformation, with Vishal and Sheykhar, the dynamic composing duo, thrilled to have SRK experience it live.

“Shah Rukh’s visit was an incredible boost for everyone,” said Vishal. “It felt like two legacies meeting—Raj and Rog. He truly enjoyed the music and the energy in the room.” Sheykhar commented, “His presence reminded us all of the true essence of theatre. That moment is something we will cherish forever.”

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‘Criminal Justice’ Season 4 Trailer: Pankaj Tripathi Makes His Comeback in the Courtroom

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Attention courtroom drama enthusiasts! ‘Criminal Justice’ has returned, delving deeper into a world of secrets, scandals, and moral conflicts. The trailer for ‘Criminal Justice: Season 4’ has just dropped, and it’s already sparking excitement among fans.

Once again, Pankaj Tripathi steps into the shoes of the sharp-witted lawyer Madhav Mishra. However, this season, Mishra is entangled in a high-stakes case involving a powerful family and a sensational murder that’s dominating the news.

What unfolds is more than just a legal battle; it’s an emotional journey where each testimony has the power to alter the story’s course.

The storyline features a scandalous murder, a plethora of suspects, and a family concealing deep secrets. In the courtroom, every character presents a unique version of the truth, putting the onus on Madhav to discern reality from deception.

Watch the trailer for ‘Criminal Justice’ Season 4 here:

As secrets unfold, personal relationships are tested, and viewers are left pondering who is truly innocent and who is merely playing a game.

Reflecting on his return to the character, Pankaj Tripathi expressed, “This isn’t just another courtroom drama — it’s a clash of intellect and emotions. Madhav faces some of his most formidable adversaries yet. Portraying him always feels like reuniting with an old friend, and each season brings new lessons. The new cast adds vibrant energy and depth, and I can’t wait for fans to join us on this journey on JioHotstar.”

Joining him this season is Surveen Chawla as Anju, a character rich in strength, vulnerability, and intrigue. “This show transcends mere courtroom battles. It explores truth, emotions, and ethics. The writing is sharp, the narrative gripping, and collaborating with Pankaj Tripathi has made it even more extraordinary,” she said.

Directed by Rohan Sippy, Season 4 is produced by Applause Entertainment and BBC Studios India, promising not just thrilling courtroom drama but also emotional complexity and social insights.

With a stellar ensemble cast featuring Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, Asha Negi, Barkha Singh, Mita Vashisht, Shweta Basu Prasad, and others, the stakes are higher, and the drama is more intense than ever.

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