Countdown of every movie Dev Patel has ever acted in
Birthday special ranking the talented actor’s diverse body of work
By Asjad NazirApr 24, 2023
The stunning cinema success of Dev Patel has largely been due to the film choices he has made.
With major Hollywood movies on the way like Monkey Man and The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, the British Asian actor will continue to be unstoppable internationally. This week he turns a year older and celebrates his 32nd birthday on Sunday (23).
Eastern Eye decided to mark the occasion with a first of its kind countdown of all his movies, not including English dubbed animated features, where he provided the voice or his TV/web work.
13. About Cherry (2012): If there is one film Patel could take away from his filmography, it would likely be this terrible turkey. After three major movies as a lead, he made the odd choice of playing a meaningless supporting role in this story of a woman’s journey towards working in the porn industry. Instead of being an inciteful human drama, his fourth movie seemed like an excuse for X-rated scenes.
The Last Airbender
12. The Last Airbender (2010): A megabudget movie that promised a lot and was supposed to kick-start a franchise, turned out to be an absolute mess. Although he delivered a spirited turn as the antagonist in the big screen adaptation of a popular animated series, the movie was a critical and commercial disaster, which killed off plans for a trilogy. Patel deeply regretted his second movie and stayed away from large franchise films
after that.
11. CHAPPiE (2015): Another special effects-laden movie that promised a lot but didn’t work, was this dystopian science fiction action drama. The Johannesburgset story of an artificial intelligence law enforcement robot captured by gangsters didn’t get out of second gear. Although Patel’s performance was appreciated, his poorly written seventh movie wasted interesting characters and a unique setting.
1O. The Wedding Guest (2018): With huge successes in subcontinental stories, this action thriller set in Pakistan and India looked like a winner. Unfortunately, the British star’s 11th movie ran out of steam after an interesting build-up. Solid performances from him and Radhika Apte weren’t quite enough to save an atmospheric movie, which could have been special with a better director and more well-rounded screenplay.
9. The Road Within (2014): The actor’s relatively low budget fifth film was about three young people dealing with specific mental health issues in a behavioural facility, who go on an unexpected trip together. A movie with its heart in the right place was driven by a formulaic story that didn’t make an impact. But that was balanced out by committed performances from the cast.
The Man Who Knew Infinity
8. The Man Who Knew Infinity (2016):
The actor’s eighth film perhaps doesn’t get the credit it deserves. The biographical drama based on an acclaimed 1991 book of the same name, saw him play real life mathematical genius Srinivasa Ramanujan, who grew up poor in India and became a pioneer after gaining admittance to Cambridge University, during World War I. The compelling story wasn’t commercial but had enough to keep you engaged and enabled Patel to deliver another standout performance.
Hotel Mumbai
7. Hotel Mumbai (2018): The action thriller based on the 2009 documentary Surviving Mumbai was inspired by the 2008 terror attacks on the city. The multistarrer with parallel stories, saw him portray a waiter in a five-star hotel under attack trying to survive and guide guests to safety. The hard-hitting film had edgeof-the-seat tension and lots of drama.
The Green Knight
6. The Green Knight (2021): The epic medieval fantasy adapted from a 14th century poem received rave reviews and saw Patel become the first person of colour to play a lead character in such a film. His 13th film as a lead was particularly praised for his multi-layered performance, which broke new ground for south Asian actors. Although some thought it was too niche and not commercial enough, it had unique storytelling.
The Personal History of David Copperfield
5. The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2015): The colourful sequel to his
super hit 2011 film The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel had plenty of entertainment value. Patel returned as the young owner of an Indian hotel filled with ageing British pensioners, looking to expand his business. His sixth film saw the story carried on smoothly from part one, and once again had him play a loveable role that connected with audiences.
4. The Personal History of David Copperfield (2019): The comedy-drama
with colourful characters is perhaps the most unique and progressive adaptation of a Charles Dickens classic. Patel’s Golden Globe-nominated performance in his 12th film shattered a huge glass ceiling, as he became the first non-white actor to play a title role in such a film. The novel’s clever reinvention was described as wonderfully entertaining. It was also refreshing, funny, and utterly charming.
3. The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2011): The critical and commercially successful movie, which spawned a sequel, saw the actor play loveable hotel owner Sonny Kapoor. He starred opposite a host of acting legends in the story of white British pensioners relocating to India and starting a new life in a retirement hotel. A film that has cross-generational appeal was charming, thoughtprovoking and entertaining. The actor’s third film would later inspire a successful stage adaptation, which is currently on a UK tour.
Lion
2. Lion (2016): For many this is the best movie Patel has starred in so far. The brilliant biographical drama based on an extraordinary true story revolves around a lost Indian child adopted by a couple in Australia, who uses Google Earth to track down his birth mother in a small Indian village, 25 years after being separated from her. The deeply emotional story starts with the struggle of a lost child and ends with him as an adult going on an amazing journey. Its many accolades include six Oscar nominations.
Slumdog Millionaire
Slumdog Millionaire (2008): Whether it is box office success, entertainment, or the many awards it received, including eight Academy Awards, the actor’s debut movie remains his best. The story loosely based on 2005 novel Q & A tells the story of a teenager, played brilliantly by Patel, who goes on the Indian version of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire. When accused of cheating and arrested, he tells an extraordinary life story that led to his correct answers. The multi-layered story took the world by storm and introduced us to his brilliant talent, which is still going strong.
Meta launches new AI-enabled smart glasses in partnership with Ray-Ban and Oakley.
Devices include the Meta Ray-Ban Display with a full-colour lens and a neural wristband for gesture control.
Oakley Meta Vanguard glasses and updated Ray-Ban Meta glasses also revealed.
Prices range from £280 to £586, with sales starting this month.
Announcement comes amid scrutiny over Meta’s safety practices and its heavy investment in AI infrastructure.
Meta launches latest AI-driven wearables
Meta has unveiled its latest range of smart glasses powered by artificial intelligence at its annual Meta Connect conference. Chief executive Mark Zuckerberg introduced the devices, developed in collaboration with Ray-Ban and Oakley, describing the technology as a “huge scientific breakthrough.”
The flagship product, the Meta Ray-Ban Display, features a high-resolution screen in one lens, a 12-megapixel camera, and the ability to make video calls and display messages. A new neural wristband allows users to perform tasks such as sending messages using small hand gestures.
Expanded line-up of smart glasses
Alongside the Display, Meta announced the Oakley Meta Vanguard glasses, targeted at sports enthusiasts and priced at $499 (£366), as well as the second generation of the Ray-Ban Meta glasses, costing $379 (£280). The Display will sell for $799 (£586), making it significantly more expensive than Meta’s existing models.
Since entering the market in 2023, Meta is understood to have sold around two million pairs of smart glasses, although the company does not release official sales figures.
Analysts remain cautious
Industry experts suggest the new products may face an uphill challenge compared with previous launches. “Unlike VR headsets, glasses are an everyday, non-cumbersome form factor,” said Forrester research director Mike Proulx. “The onus is on Meta to convince the majority of people who don’t own AI glasses that the benefits outweigh the cost.”
Leo Gebbie of CCS Insight added that the Ray-Ban glasses have been popular due to being “easy to use, inconspicuous and relatively affordable,” but expressed scepticism over whether the more advanced Display model would achieve the same success.
Heavy investment in AI
The launch comes as Meta continues to expand its artificial intelligence operations. In July, Mr Zuckerberg said the company would spend hundreds of billions of dollars on AI infrastructure, including vast data centres in the United States, one of which is expected to span an area almost the size of Manhattan.
The company is also competing to recruit top AI talent as it develops what it calls “superintelligence,” technology designed to out-think humans.
Protests and safety concerns
The announcements coincided with protests outside Meta’s New York headquarters. Parents and activists demanded stronger safeguards for children on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, highlighting concerns over online harms.
Two former Meta safety researchers also testified before the US Senate last week, alleging the company discouraged studies that could show evidence of risks to children from its virtual reality products. Meta rejected the claims, describing them as “nonsense.”
By clicking the 'Subscribe’, you agree to receive our newsletter, marketing communications and industry
partners/sponsors sharing promotional product information via email and print communication from Garavi Gujarat
Publications Ltd and subsidiaries. You have the right to withdraw your consent at any time by clicking the
unsubscribe link in our emails. We will use your email address to personalize our communications and send you
relevant offers. Your data will be stored up to 30 days after unsubscribing.
Contact us at data@amg.biz to see how we manage and store your data.
Blackman in turn praised Modi as a “remarkable leader” who had transformed India’s global position
A special publication marking the 75th birthday of Indian prime minister Narendra Modi was launched at the House of Commons on Wednesday (17) in a celebration that brought together political leaders, spiritual figures, and members of the British-Asian community.
The event, hosted by the International Siddhashram Shakti Centre UK in collaboration with Garavi Gujarat and Eastern Eye, coincided with the Hindu festival of Navratri.
His Holiness Shri Rajrajeshwar Guruji, founder of Siddhashram Shakti Centre UK, led the gathering, which was attended by Padmashree Bob Blackman CBE MP, Lord Rami Ranger, Swami Abhiramacharya Ji Maharaj of Triveni Sangam, Prayagraj, and Shree Chaitanya Shambhu Maharaj of Ahmedabad.
His Holiness Shri Rajrajeshwar Guruji, founder of Siddhashram Shakti Centre UK, led the gathering
Cultural performances by Siddhashram’s troupe added to the festive spirit, while attendees donning Modi masks created what organisers described as a symbolic “Modi on every seat” display inside Parliament.
In his address, Shri Rajrajeshwar Guruji described Modi as “a saint in a civil role guiding India and the world,” while commending Blackman for his consistent support of the diaspora. Blackman in turn praised Modi as a “remarkable leader” who had transformed India’s global position through reforms and development initiatives. He also called for renewed progress on a UK-India Free Trade Agreement.
Lord Rami Ranger highlighted India’s rise on the world stage, saying the country’s economic progress was “a testament to Sanatan Dharma’s resilience and the leadership of Prime Minister Modi.” He also applauded Asian Media Group and the Solanki family for empowering the British-Asian community through Garavi Gujarat and Eastern Eye.
The occasion also saw the announcement of Siddhashram’s upcoming Navratri Festival in Harrow
The programme featured remarks from Kamal Rao, associate editor of Garavi Gujarat, and finance manager Kamal Desai, who honoured community leaders and youth performers. Recognition was also presented to 12 distinguished contributors, including Swami Abhiramacharya Ji Maharaj, Shree Chaitanya Shambhu Maharaj, Dr Uday Pratap Singh, and Samjibhai Patel.
Mahesh Liloriya, head of strategic partnerships at Asian Media Group, anchored the evening, which drew diaspora representatives from London, Birmingham, and other UK cities. The occasion also saw the announcement of Siddhashram’s upcoming Navratri Festival in Harrow (22 September–2 October), coinciding with Harrow Council’s 60th anniversary.
Keep ReadingShow less
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said the new contract with Apollo Tyres runs until March 2028. (Photo: BCCI)
INDIAN cricket has signed Apollo Tyres as its new lead sponsor after fantasy sports platform Dream11 ended its contract following a government ban on online gambling.
The men's team travelled to the United Arab Emirates for the ongoing Asia Cup without a sponsor on their shirts after Dream11 exited the deal, which was worth about $44 million and was set to run until 2026.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said the new contract with Apollo Tyres runs until March 2028. While the value was not disclosed, the board said it is higher than the previous deal.
"The new partnership, secured after a rigorous bidding process, represents a substantial increase in sponsorship value, signifying the immense and growing commercial appeal of Indian cricket," the BCCI said in a statement.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia said, "We are excited about this being Apollo's first major sponsorship in India cricket, which speaks volumes about the sport's unparalleled reach and influence. This is more than a commercial agreement; it's a partnership between two institutions that have earned the trust and respect of millions."
Apollo Tyres Vice-Chairman and Managing Director Neeraj Kanwar said, "Cricket's unmatched popularity in India and worldwide makes it an honour for us to become the national team lead sponsor of Team India."
The Apollo Tyres logo will appear on the jerseys of the Indian men's and women's teams across all formats.
Last month, the Indian parliament passed a law banning online gambling. The government said gambling platforms had caused financial distress, addiction and even suicide, and were linked to fraud, money laundering and terrorism financing. Fantasy sports apps such as Dream11 continue to operate, though for prizes and not cash.
In the rapidly evolving world of crypto casinos, one platform is standing out for its innovative gameplay, unmatched rewards, and community-driven growth — Toshi.bet. Recognized by CoinMarketCap as a pioneer in crypto gaming, Toshi.bet is transforming how players interact with digital assets while gaming.
Why Toshi.bet Is Leading the Crypto Casino Industry
1. Best Rewards in Crypto Gaming
As mentioned on CoinMarketCap, Toshi.bet offers some of the highest rakeback rates, staking incentives, and exclusive bonuses in the industry. This ensures that every player, from casual gamers to high rollers, maximizes their returns.
2. Innovative Gameplay Experience
Unlike traditional online casinos, Toshi.bet is committed to custom-built, interactive games that are designed for maximum engagement. From exciting slots to provably fair Plinko and live casino games, the platform blends entertainment with cutting-edge blockchain technology.
Active stakers and frequent players can participate in massive prize pools and lotteries — a feature that keeps the Toshi.bet community buzzing with excitement and anticipation.
4. Airdrops and Incentive Programs
To reward loyalty and early adoption, Toshi.bet frequently runs airdrop campaigns and other incentive programs that benefit both new users and seasoned players. These initiatives create a dynamic ecosystem that fosters both growth and community engagement.
How Toshi.bet Is Building Trust in the Crypto Space
Transparency is a cornerstone of Toshi.bet’s mission. Every game is provably fair, withdrawals are instant, and no KYC is required — providing users with security, privacy, and control over their assets.
The Future of Toshi.bet
With crypto adoption surging globally, Toshi.bet is positioning itself as the go-to destination for crypto gaming enthusiasts. From expanding its staking programs to introducing new high-engagement games, the platform is continuously innovating to meet the needs of its rapidly growing player base.
Keep ReadingShow less
Nvidia boss Jensen Huang has said he is “disappointed” following reports
China’s Cyberspace Administration has reportedly ordered tech firms to stop using Nvidia’s AI chips
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang says he is “disappointed” but will remain “patient”
Huang is visiting the UK alongside other tech leaders during Donald Trump’s state visit
Nvidia became the world’s first $4tn company earlier in 2025 amid the AI boom
Huang responds to reported China directive
Nvidia boss Jensen Huang has said he is “disappointed” following reports that China has told its leading technology firms to halt purchases of the company’s artificial intelligence chips.
Speaking to reporters in the UK, Huang added that he would remain “patient” in light of the reported order from China’s internet regulator, the Cyberspace Administration. “There are a lot of places we can’t go to, and that’s fine,” he said.
Background to chip restrictions
Nvidia is the world’s leading chipmaker, central to the global AI boom with its processors powering data centres worldwide. China, meanwhile, has been working to develop its own semiconductors as part of a broader AI strategy to reduce reliance on US technology.
The company had already faced restrictions in China. Its most advanced chips were previously banned from sale to the country before US President Donald Trump reversed the decision in July. As part of an unusual arrangement, Nvidia must pay 15% of its Chinese revenues to the US government.
Financial Times report
According to the Financial Times, China’s Cyberspace Administration recently told domestic technology firms — including major players such as DeepSeek, Tencent and Alibaba — to stop buying Nvidia’s specially designed China-market chips.
Shares in Nvidia were down more than 1% in pre-market trading following the news.
Support for US policy
Asked about the geopolitical tensions, Huang said he would support the US as it sought to resolve the issues and would convey the same message directly to President Trump if asked.
Huang is one of several technology leaders, including Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, attending Trump’s state visit to the UK. They are expected to join a state banquet on Wednesday evening.
UK investment and tech collaboration
Despite the reported setback in China, Nvidia has continued to expand its footprint elsewhere. The company recently announced it would supply chips to the Stargate UK data centre, a major project in north-east England involving OpenAI, Arm and NScale. The commitment forms part of a broader UK-US technology pact.
Valuation milestone
Nvidia became the first company in the world to surpass a $4tn (£2.9tn) market valuation earlier this year, underscoring its dominance in the AI sector even as geopolitical tensions shape its global reach.