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An elite MI6 agent played by Priyanka Chopra Jonas
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Priyanka Chopra fronts action thriller ‘Heads of State’ with John Cena, Idris Elba
Apr 24, 2025
A dynamic of action, comedy, and political misadventure is set to hit Prime Video this summer with the release of Heads of State. The newly launched trailer teases a fast-paced, explosive ride featuring Priyanka Chopra Jonas, John Cena, and Idris Elba in lead roles. The film is slated to premiere globally on 2 July 2025.
Directed by Ilya Naishuller, the filmmaker behind Hardcore Henry and Nobody, Heads of State is billed as a cross between Air Force One and Midnight Run. The film places mismatched world leaders at the centre of a chaotic crisis that forces them to work together, despite their egos and rivalries.
Cena stars as U.S. President Will Derringer and Elba as British Prime Minister Sam Clarke, who is also a former action-movie star. Their first official diplomatic mission together takes a sudden turn when their plane comes under attack mid-flight. With their elite security teams compromised and an unidentified enemy closing in, the two heads of state are left with no option but to join forces.
As the duo scrambles to stay alive and uncover the source of the threat, they cross paths with Noel Bisset, an elite MI6 agent played by Priyanka Chopra Jonas. Her character brings the necessary tactical edge and no-nonsense attitude to the operation, acting as the glue that holds the chaotic trio together. From combat sequences to quick-witted exchanges, Chopra Jonas takes a commanding role in the unfolding drama, offering both firepower and diplomacy when it’s needed most.
The film’s narrative promises equal parts adrenaline and amusement, as Derringer and Clarke—both stubborn and larger than life—are forced into a reluctant alliance. Their on-screen chemistry, forged previously in The Suicide Squad, is expected to be a highlight once again, this time against a backdrop of global stakes and non-stop action.
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Heads of State also features an impressive supporting cast including Jack Quaid, Paddy Considine, Stephen Root, Carla Gugino, and Sarah Niles. Each actor adds to the multi-layered storyline that spans several continents and a variety of political tensions.
Filming commenced in London in May 2023 and continued across notable European locations. Key scenes were captured at St George’s Hall in Liverpool, the scenic streets of Trieste in Italy, and throughout Belgrade, Serbia—giving the film a distinctly international flavour and cinematic scale.
The screenplay was penned by Josh Appelbaum, André Nemec, and Harrison Query, based on an original story by Query. The project was initially acquired by Amazon Studios in 2020, reuniting Cena and Elba for another action-packed venture.
With its combination of buddy comedy dynamics, espionage twists, and high-stakes international peril, Heads of State is positioned as one of Prime Video’s major summer releases. Viewers can expect sharp dialogue, globe-trotting drama, and memorable performances, especially from Chopra Jonas, who steps confidently into a physically demanding and pivotal role.
For audiences looking for a film that fuses explosive action with sharp humour and unexpected camaraderie, Heads of State could be one of 2025’s standout blockbusters.
Heads of State launches worldwide on 2 July 2025, exclusively on Prime Video.
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He has denied all allegations and continues to maintain his innocence
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Harvey Weinstein's retrial begins with accusations of 'psychological hold' on victims
Apr 24, 2025
The retrial of former Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein began in New York on Tuesday, after his 2020 rape conviction was overturned by the state’s Court of Appeals. Weinstein, 72, is being re-tried on charges of rape and sexual assault, which originally led to a 23-year prison sentence. He has pleaded not guilty.
The original conviction was quashed on grounds that the trial court allowed testimony from women whose allegations were not directly tied to the charges, which the appeals court ruled deprived Weinstein of a fair trial.
In this retrial, three women’s claims form the core of the prosecution’s case: Miriam Haley, Jessica Mann, and Kaja Sokola. Haley and Mann both testified during the original trial. Sokola, a Polish-born former model and psychologist, did not.
Prosecutor Shannon Lucey told the court that Weinstein used his influence in the film industry to exert a “profoundly psychological and physical hold” over aspiring actresses. “He was the Hollywood gatekeeper,” she said, alleging that the women kept their pain private out of fear and shame. Lucey added that Weinstein “held unfettered power for over 30 years in that industry.”
Lucey said Weinstein’s power ended when the New York Times published an exposé in October 2017, detailing years of sexual abuse allegations. “The #MeToo movement began because of the bravery of the women who came forward,” she said.
Lucey provided specific details of the three women’s accounts.
Jessica Mann, an actress, met Weinstein in 2012. Lucey recounted an incident in March 2013 in which Weinstein allegedly used a false name to book a hotel room and pushed Mann inside, where he raped her. Lucey quoted Weinstein allegedly telling her afterwards: “I just couldn’t help myself.”
Kaja Sokola alleges that in 2006, at the age of 16, she was taken to what she thought would be a business meeting with Weinstein. Instead, he allegedly forced her into a private apartment where he sexually assaulted her. “She said ‘please don’t do this’ over and over again,” Lucey told the jury. Weinstein reportedly replied: “See, that wasn’t so bad.”
Miriam Haley, a former production assistant, also gave testimony during the 2020 trial. She has chosen not to testify again. Lucey explained that Haley was awarded $475,000 in a civil settlement, which included a release of any liability. “She is traumatised,” Lucey said. “She is afraid and paranoid about the defendant’s power.”
Weinstein’s lawyer, Arthur Aidala, began his defence by stating that the case “is going to fall flat on its face.” He argued that the encounters were consensual and that the women remained in contact with Weinstein because they sought career advancement. “They believed he could get them into the room they wanted to be in,” he said.
Aidala referred to the alleged victims as “friends with benefits” and said “the casting couch is not a crime scene.” He acknowledged Weinstein’s infidelities but described them as “immoral” rather than criminal, stating “it was wrong on both ends.”
Throughout his opening statement, Aidala attempted to cast doubt on the credibility of the accusers. He argued that Sokola is “troubled” and has “a lot of problems.” He noted that she later sent kind messages to Weinstein.
Aidala also referred to high-profile women’s rights lawyer Gloria Allred, who is attending the trial. Allred has represented multiple accusers of Weinstein, including Haley. Aidala claimed Allred is “known for suing celebs” and accused the women of lying for financial gain.
“Many of these women continued to see Harvey after the alleged assaults,” Aidala said. “She’s taking her rapist to have lunch.”
The defence emphasised that some accusers did not immediately tell friends or agents about the incidents. Aidala referenced Jessica Mann, saying she did not report the alleged rape to her friend and agent who were waiting for her downstairs just minutes later.
Jurors listened intently to both sides during the opening statements, which lasted around two hours. Courtroom sketches depicted Weinstein observing from his wheelchair, with prosecutor Lucey and Justice Curtis Farber also drawn by courtroom artist Jane Rosenberg.
Weinstein remains imprisoned on a separate conviction from a Los Angeles trial, where he was sentenced to 16 years for raping an Italian actress in 2013. He has denied all allegations and continues to maintain his innocence.
The retrial is expected to last several weeks.
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'Brat' known for its sharp lyricism and bold production
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Charli XCX leads 2025 Ivors nominations honouring British songwriting
Apr 24, 2025
Charli XCX, Lola Young and RAYE are among the key artists nominated for the 2025 Ivor Novello Awards, which celebrate outstanding achievement in British and Irish songwriting and composing. The nominations, announced ahead of the ceremony on 22 May in London, highlight a strong showing of both established and emerging talent across various musical genres.
Charli XCX’s album Brat has been nominated for Best Album, marking a significant moment in her evolving career. The record, known for its sharp lyricism and bold production, is one of the year’s most talked-about releases. She is joined in the category by Lola Young, whose debut album This Wasn’t Meant for You Anyway also received a nomination. The project has been praised for its raw emotion and introspective songwriting.
Lola Young has further strengthened her presence at this year’s Ivors with additional nominations. Her track Messy has been shortlisted for Best Song Musically and Lyrically, where it will compete alongside Genesis by RAYE. Both songs have been commended for their compositional strength and lyrical depth. In addition to these nominations, Young is also in the running for the Rising Star Award, which recognises promising emerging talent in the UK music scene.
In the Most Performed Work category, Harry Styles’ chart-topping single As It Was has earned a nomination. The track was one of the UK’s biggest hits and saw extensive radio and streaming success throughout the eligibility period. It is joined by Dua Lipa’s Houdini, another widely played single, as well as Stargazing by Myles Smith, which has gained considerable traction and marked a breakthrough moment for the artist.
The Ivor Novello Awards, known simply as the Ivors, are one of the UK’s most prestigious music honours. Presented by the Ivors Academy, the awards focus on recognising the creative talents of songwriters and composers, rather than performers alone. They span multiple categories including Best Contemporary Song, Best Original Film Score, and Songwriter of the Year, among others.
The 2025 ceremony will take place on 22 May at Grosvenor House in London. Winners are selected by panels of esteemed songwriters and composers from within the industry. The event not only celebrates artistic excellence but also provides a platform for recognising the cultural contribution of music creators in the UK and Ireland.
Further information, including the full list of nominees and ticket details, can be found at IvorsAcademy.com.
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The sequel, which will be directed by David Fincher and based on a script by Tarantino
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Quentin Tarantino's 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood' sequel title revealed
Apr 24, 2025
Fans of Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood are in for a surprise as the title for its highly anticipated sequel has reportedly been revealed. According to a recent interview with Michael B. Jordan, the sequel is set to be called The Continuing Adventures of Cliff Booth. The news has sparked excitement, and it's clear that Tarantino’s iconic character, played by Brad Pitt, will be at the centre of this follow-up film.
The sequel, which will be directed by David Fincher and based on a script by Tarantino, will see Pitt reprise his role as the rugged and enigmatic Cliff Booth. The storyline will reportedly take place around eight years after the events of the original film. This time, Booth is expected to transition into a new career as a Hollywood studio fixer, a role that aligns well with the character’s no-nonsense, tough-guy persona, which was showcased in the first film.
The title itself, The Continuing Adventures of Cliff Booth, signals a deeper dive into the character’s journey, promising audiences more of the same mix of nostalgia and dark humour that made Once Upon a Time in Hollywood a hit. Booth’s past and his willingness to do whatever it takes, even murder, for survival, set the stage for a new chapter in his life.
While the sequel is being framed as a project centered on Booth, it’s been speculated that Leonardo DiCaprio could make a brief appearance as Rick Dalton, Booth's former co-star. However, any involvement from DiCaprio is expected to be minimal, focusing on Booth’s new career path and the challenges he faces in the shifting world of Hollywood.
Interestingly, this project originated from Tarantino’s scrapped script for what would have been his tenth and final film. Pitt was particularly interested in continuing Booth’s story and requested that Tarantino allow someone else to direct. Tarantino agreed, on the condition that the director would need to meet his standards. Enter David Fincher, a filmmaker whose dark and stylish aesthetic aligns well with the tone of Tarantino’s original work. With Fincher on board, Tarantino gave his blessing for the sequel to proceed.
Although the sequel is still in the early stages, production is reportedly eyeing a summer shoot. While Fincher has several other projects in the pipeline, including Bitterroot, a western crime thriller, and the Squid Game series, the Once Upon a Time in Hollywood sequel seems set to move forward.
In addition to the title reveal, there’s also speculation about the direction the sequel will take, with many wondering how the world of Hollywood in the late 60s and early 70s will be explored. Fans are eagerly awaiting more details about the plot and casting, though it is clear that Fincher’s involvement has only heightened anticipation for what promises to be another star-studded chapter in the Once Upon a Time franchise.
With production gearing up for what could be a summer 2025 release, fans are left wondering how The Continuing Adventures of Cliff Booth will unfold. One thing is for sure – it’s bound to be another ride filled with Tarantino’s signature style, sharp dialogue, and memorable characters.
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Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire
Rahul Bhatt sparks controversy over 'insensitive' remarks about sisters Alia and Pooja Bhatt
Rahul Bhatt, fitness trainer and son of veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, has found himself at the centre of a social media storm following controversial remarks about his half-sister, Alia Bhatt. In a recent interview, Rahul drew comparisons between Alia and their older sister Pooja Bhatt, calling the latter more talented, attractive, and principled.
The comments, which many have labelled inappropriate and insensitive, have sparked widespread criticism online. During the interview, Rahul stated, “In my opinion, she (Alia) is not even half of what my real sister Pooja is. Not in talent, not in looks, not in terms of being sexy. In front of my sister, she is ‘paani kam chai’ (watery tea). Amongst the siblings, the most talented and the most moralistic is Pooja.”
Social media users reacted strongly, questioning why Rahul would compare his sisters in such personal terms. Several users were particularly disturbed by his reference to their appearance and sex appeal, pointing out that such comparisons within a family cross boundaries of propriety. One comment read, “This is disturbing. Why talk about your sisters like that? It’s not just weird, it’s wrong.” Another post said, “There’s nothing respectful about comparing your siblings’ attractiveness in public.”
The backlash also reignited conversation around a decades-old controversy involving Mahesh Bhatt and Pooja Bhatt. Rahul was asked about the infamous 1990s magazine cover where the father-daughter duo shared a kiss, which had stirred public outrage at the time. Dismissing the criticism, Rahul said, “It doesn’t make any difference. It’s like water off a duck’s back. We know the truth, and we’ve seen everything since childhood.”
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire, with critics saying it reflects a broader issue of the Bhatt family being insensitive to public perception and boundaries. Many users questioned the need for bringing up old incidents in a bid to defend new and equally questionable statements.
As of now, neither Alia Bhatt nor Pooja Bhatt has issued any public response to Rahul’s remarks. Both actors, known for their significant contributions to Indian cinema, have typically kept family matters private despite living in the public eye.
This episode has also sparked debate over the role of public figures in maintaining respect when discussing family matters in the media. Observers say such comments, especially when involving women’s appearance and personal qualities, reinforce problematic attitudes and fuel unnecessary controversies.
While Rahul Bhatt is not as prominent in the entertainment industry as his father or sisters, his comments have made headlines and placed the Bhatt family in the spotlight for reasons beyond their creative work. For many, this serves as a reminder that public platforms come with responsibility, and that family ties should not be trivialised or dissected for attention or comparison.
The backlash is unlikely to subside soon, especially as fans and followers of Alia and Pooja continue to express disappointment over the way the situation has unfolded. Whether or not Rahul chooses to clarify or apologise remains to be seen.