Gayathri Kallukaran is a Junior Journalist with Eastern Eye. She has a Master’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from St. Paul’s College, Bengaluru, and brings over five years of experience in content creation, including two years in digital journalism. She covers stories across culture, lifestyle, travel, health, and technology, with a creative yet fact-driven approach to reporting. Known for her sensitivity towards human interest narratives, Gayathri’s storytelling often aims to inform, inspire, and empower. Her journey began as a layout designer and reporter for her college’s daily newsletter, where she also contributed short films and editorial features. Since then, she has worked with platforms like FWD Media, Pepper Content, and Petrons.com, where several of her interviews and features have gained spotlight recognition. Fluent in English, Malayalam, Tamil, and Hindi, she writes in English and Malayalam, continuing to explore inclusive, people-focused storytelling in the digital space.
In the world of celebrities, every public appearance and gesture is scrutinised under the microscope of social media. The latest to face the ire of netizens is reality TV star and beauty mogul Kylie Jenner, who was spotted sharing a kiss with actor Timothée Chalamet during a tennis match. The moment, captured by onlookers and shared widely online, has sparked criticism, with many claiming Jenner appeared to be 'forcing it. The incident occurred at a high-profile tennis event, where Jenner and Chalamet were seen sitting courtside, enjoying the match. The two, rumoured to be dating for some time, seemed in good spirits, laughing and chatting throughout the game. However, a brief kiss between the pair became the focal point of attention. Videos and photos of the moment quickly went viral, with social media users dissecting the interaction. Many netizens took to platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok to express their opinions, with a significant number suggesting the kiss seemed awkward or staged. One user wrote, 'Why does it look like Kylie was forcing it? That was so uncomfortable to watch.' Another commented, 'Timothée looked like he didn’t even see it coming. This feels so performative.' Memes and jokes about the incident flooded the internet, with some comparing the moment to cringe-worthy scenes from films or TV shows. The backlash highlights the intense scrutiny celebrities face in their personal and public lives. For Jenner, who has built a billion-dollar empire through her cosmetics brand and social media presence, this is not the first time she has been at the centre of online criticism. From her parenting choices to her fashion statements, Jenner’s every move is analysed and debated by fans and critics alike.
Chalamet, on the other hand, is known for his low-key and private demeanour. The Oscar-nominated actor, who has starred in critically acclaimed films like Call Me by Your Name and Dune, has managed to keep much of his personal life out of the spotlight. His rumoured relationship with Jenner has been a topic of interest for fans and media outlets, but neither party has officially confirmed their status. The tennis match incident has reignited discussions about the pressures of celebrity relationships and the role of social media in amplifying every detail of their lives. While some defended Jenner and Chalamet, arguing that the criticism was unwarranted and invasive, others doubled down on their opinions, claiming the moment was a publicity stunt or an attempt to stay relevant. This is not the first time a celebrity couple has faced backlash for their public displays of affection. In the age of social media, where every moment can be captured and shared instantly, even the most mundane interactions can become fodder for online debates. For Jenner and Chalamet, the incident serves as a reminder of the challenges of navigating fame in the digital era. As the conversation continues to unfold online, it raises broader questions about the boundaries of privacy and the impact of social media on public figures. While celebrities often rely on their public image to maintain their careers, the constant scrutiny can take a toll on their mental health and personal relationships.
For now, neither Jenner nor Chalamet has publicly addressed the backlash. Whether the incident will have any lasting impact on their reputations or relationship remains to be seen. In the world of celebrity culture, even the smallest moments can spark big conversations. It serves as a reminder of the power of social media to shape public perception and the importance of empathy in our interactions online.
Forum brings UK and Chinese film professionals together to explore collaborations.
Emerging British-Asian talent gain mentorship and international exposure.
Small-scale dramas, kids’ shows, and adapting popular formats were the projects everyone was talking about.
Telling stories that feel real to their culture, yet can connect with anyone, is what makes them work worldwide.
Meeting three times a year keeps the UK and China talking, creating opportunities that last beyond one event.
The theatre was packed for the Third Shanghai–London Screen Industry Forum. Between panels and workshops, filmmakers, producers and executives discussed ideas and business cards and it felt more than just a summit. British-Asian filmmakers were meeting and greeting the Chinese industry in an attempt to explore genuine possibilities of working in China’s film market.
UK China film collaborations take off as Third Shanghai London Forum connects British Asian filmmakers with Chinese studios Instagram/ukchinafilm
What makes the forum important for British-Asian filmmakers?
For filmmakers whose films explore identity and belonging, this is a chance to show their work on an international stage, meet Chinese directors, talk co-productions and break cultural walls that normally feel unscalable. “It’s invaluable,” Abid Khan said after a panel, “because you can’t create globally if you don’t talk globally.”
And it’s not just established names. Young filmmakers were all around, pitching ideas and learning on the go. The forum gave them a chance to get noticed with mentoring, workshops, and live pitch sessions.
Which projects are catching international attention?
Micro-dramas are trending. Roy Lu of Linmon International says vertical content for apps is “where it’s at.” They’ve done US, Canada, Australia and next stop, Europe. YouTube is back in focus too, thanks to Rosemary Reed of POW TV Studios. Short attention spans and three-minute hits, she’s ready.
Children’s and sports shows are another hotspot. Jiella Esmat of 8Lions is developing Touch Grass, a football-themed children’s show. The logic is simple: sports and kids content unite families, like global glue.
Then there’s format adaptation. Lu also talked about Nothing But 30, a Chinese series with 7 billion streams. The plan is for an english version in London. Not a straight translation, but a cultural transformation. “‘30’ in London isn’t just words,” Lu says. “It’s a new story.”
Jason Zhang of Stellar Pictures says international audiences respond when culture isn’t just a background prop. Lanterns, flowers, rituals, they’re part of the plot. Cedric Behrel from Trinity CineAsia adds: you need context. Western audiences don’t know Journey to the West, so co-production helps them understand without diluting the story.
Economic sense matters too. Roy Lu stresses: pick your market, make it financially viable. Esmat likens ideal co-productions to a marriage: “Multicultural teams naturally think about what works globally and what doesn’t.”
The UK-China Film Collab’s Future Talent Programme is taking on eight students or recent grads this year. They’re getting the backstage access to international filmmaking that few ever see, including mentorship, festival organising and hands-on experience. Alumni are landing real jobs: accredited festival journalists, Beijing producers, curators at The National Gallery.
Adrian Wootton OBE reminded everyone: “We exist through partnerships, networks, and collaboration.” Yin Xin from Shanghai Media Group noted that tri-annual gathering: London, Shanghai, Hong Kong create an “intensive concentration” of ideas.
Actor-director Zhang Luyi said it best: cultural exchange isn’t telling your story to someone, it’s creating stories together.
The Shanghai-London Screen Industry Forum is no longer just a talking shop. It’s a launchpad, a bridge. And for British-Asian filmmakers and emerging talent, it’s a chance to turn ideas into reality.
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