I always wanted to do an action film: Shahid

Actor Shahid Kapoor known for films like Kabir Singh, Jab We Met, and Jersey said that doing an out-an-out action film was something he had wanted to do. Speaking about his unconventional role in Bloody Daddy, Shahid said: “Doing an out-an-out action film was something I have wanted to do but I was waiting for the perfect one. When Ali came to me with this project, I knew this was it!

It’s high octane, its action packed, it’s thrilling, and it’s intense, created especially for a digital first audience.

Ali’s expertise in this genre is unparalleled, and collaborating with him has been incredibly fulfilling. We’re incredibly thrilled to witness the audience’s response to our creation.” The platform unveiled the actionpacked trailer of the Ali Abbas Zafardirectorial at a grand event in Mumbai, ahead of its release.

Produced by Jyoti Deshpande, Sunir Kheterpal, Gaurav Bose, Himanshu Kishan Mehra, and Ali Abbas Zafar, the film casts Diana Penty, Sanjay Kapoor, Ronit Roy, and Rajeev Khandelwal in pivotal roles.

Adah on showbiz’s utter uncertainties

Actress Adah Sharma recently shared her thoughts on the film industry and the uncertainties that come with it. In an interview with a news agency, the 1920 actress said, “Every film I do I think that it will be my last. Because I don’t know if I will get another chance or if someone would show faith in me again. But I think the audience’s dreams for me were always bigger. Like they would always say that Adah should have been given this or that role...I think, all those dreams are now true. I am so lucky. My dreams were always small like I wanted to play with an elephant or a dog of course. I wanted to do good roles, but never knew how many I will get.” She further added, “As an actor, you always want that people see your work. I’m glad that I got such a chance. I used to wonder if I have to be reborn like Shah Rukh Khan in Om Shanti Om to get such an opportunity in this life. But I got this and I’m really happy that people are watching the film and giving so much appreciation.”

Portrayal of women in Indian cinema has changed

I’ve high expectations from myself: Alaya F

Actor Alaya F who is known for films like Freddy, U-turn talks about her willingness to play all kinds of characters but she does not want to go overboard with it at this point in her career. The Jawaani Jaaneman actor says, “Gaining acknowledgment from others boosts my selfassurance and drive, although it comes with a healthy expectation. Due to my high standards, even mundane tasks impress people, as they anticipate something exceptional from me each time. Moreover, I appreciate filmmakers approaching me with intriguing projects. Consequently, as long as these projects align with my instincts, whether traditional or unconventional, I will dedicate myself fully, hoping it resonates with the audience. I aspire to delve into diverse roles.” “The influence of celebrities has diminished due to social media and their active engagement on these platforms. However, my focus remains on achieving excellence, as failure occurs only when one ceases to strive. Regardless of attaining fame, I will persistently pursue my aspirations. It is crucial to aim for greatness in order to accomplish something meaningful, otherwise, efforts will be half-hearted. That’s my approach,” says Alaya.

Actress Shabana Azmi is enjoying the current phase of her career, says portrayal of women in cinema has changed significantly, and filmmakers are trying to depict female characters realistically. “If we talk about the film industry, the portrayal of women in cinema has changed a great deal. Back in the 1960s, when you saw a film, it was all about ‘main chup rahungi’. It was considered a virtue for a woman to remain silent. Today, that won’t be ideal at the box office”, says the 72 year old actress. “In the film What’s Love Got to Do with It?, my character’s role differs from the typical feminist portrayal. She represents the matriarch of her family, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to keeping her family intact and protecting her children. It embodies a feminist perspective, albeit from a liberal standpoint. In the past, there was a stereotype that all Indian women wore yellow chiffon sarees and danced in the Alps, disregarding the existence of professional or working women,” Azmi shares. “Now you pick rural or urban India, women are [shown to be] working. Even if a film is a love story, the women have a profession, they do something else rather, except for just falling for someone. These things show how there is a change, and it’s only for better,” concludes the actor. On the work front Shabana Azmi will be seen next in Karan Johar’s Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani.

Actor Bhumi Pednekar’s film choices are different and extremely diverse and that’s what makes her a special talent. Talking about this, Bhumi said, “I will never fall into the rut of followf3ing the norm to be a leading lady in this industry. I’m aware that I’m a deviation from the rule as to how leading ladies have been on screen and I love that. People will only remember me for the work that I do on screen. So, it is very important for me to pick the films that I feel in my gut is trying to say something new or aiming to do something extremely disruptive.” Bhumi mentions that she never says okay to a project by seeing who is cast in it. She added, “If you look at my filmography since my debut, you will see me choosing scripts and roles that stand out before nything else like who is making it, who is cast in it, etc. I’m only seeking out the best projects because the films I do will be my legacy.” Meanwhile, on the work front, Bhumi will be seen in The Ladykiller alongside Arjun Kapoor.