Late Bollywood legend Guru Dutt is widely regarded as one of the finest and most influential Indian filmmakers.
He was also a respected actor and left behind a remarkable body of work in a relatively short space of time, including all-time classics, before he passed away on October 10, 1964, at the age of 39.
To mark his death anniversary this week and a forthcoming biopic, Eastern Eye decided to pay tribute to the movie icon by listing the top 10 things that made him memorable.
Johnny Walker and Guru Dutt in Pyaasa
Film masterpieces: Although he was responsible for many cinematic innovations, launched new talent, and delivered winning performances, what ultimately defined Guru Dutt was the impressive body of work he left behind as a producer and director. Some of his all-time classics include his stunning directorial debut Baazi (1951), Aar Paar (1954), Mr & Mrs 55 (1955), C.I.D (1956), Pyaasa (1957), Kaagaz Ke Phool (1959), Chaudhvin Ka Chand (1960) and Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam (1962).
All-round skills: Dutt started his career as a dance choreographer and evolved into a master filmmaker with extensive knowledge. He added acting to his impressive list of skills, along with having a great ear for music and an expert eye to spot new talent. The all-round ability gave his films an added depth during the golden age of Hindi cinema.
Chaudhvin Ka Chand
Acting ability: Although he didn’t rate himself highly as an actor, Dutt delivered memorable turns in films like Pyaasa, Kaagaz Ke Phool and Chaudhvin Ka Chand. Although at his best playing characters with inner pain, he was also able to do lighter roles really well. What was remarkable about many of the performances was that he was often directing himself and producing the film.
Directing talent: Although he excelled as an actor and producer, Dutt was at his very best when directing films. He was able to tell great stories and bring out the very best from everyone involved in his films, from singers to all the actors. Sadly, he was crushed by the negative reviews to his masterpiece Kaagaz Ke Phool and never directed a movie again.
Good music: Great stories were central to Dutt’s success, but he also had a ear for music, and this was demonstrated by the winning soundtracks in his films. The many memorable songs include Tadbeer Se Bigdi Hui Taqdeer Bana Le (Baazi), Yeh Raat, Yeh Chandni (Jaal), Babuji Dheere Chalna (Aar Paar), Jaane Kya Tune Kahi (Pyaasa) and the deeply romantic Chaudhvin Ka Chand title track. One of those who greatly benefited from his musical knowledge was legendary composer OP Nayyar, who delivered star-making songs for him. His wife Geeta Dutt sang many of his hit songs.
Innovative techniques: Whether it was incorporating songs seamlessly into the storyline, introducing new camera angles, or tackling taboo subjects, the producer, director, and writer expanded the horizons of Hindi cinema by introducing great innovations. His intelligent filmmaking techniques had a transformative effect, because it inspired others to follow in his giant footsteps. By looking at cinema through a more advanced eye, he made movies that were ahead of their time.
New talent: Whether it was finding behind the camera talents or skilled actors, Dutt was responsible for launching a lot of new stars, some of who went on to become major movie icons. A few of those all-time greats who made their Hindi cinema debut in one of his films included actress Waheeda Rehman, comedy king Johnny Walker and ace director Raj Khosla. He also gifted star-making moments to legends like actress Geeta Bali and singer Geeta Roy, whom he subsequently married.
Keeping it real: When other filmmakers were delivering escapist entertainers and films filled with optimism, he added a realism that was missing to commercial Hindi cinema with characters and storylines. He wasn’t afraid to have a sad ending or present characters, including females, who had a dark side to their personality. This would lay the foundation for a thriving arthouse Indian cinema scene that would evolve a few decades later. Dealing with real human emotions gave his films a timeless quality and why he remains relevant today.
Kaagaz Ke Phool
Powerful female leads: If you consider that a number of leading ladies in Bollywood today still find it difficult to get great author-backed roles, what the forward-thinking filmmaker did was remarkable. Females in pretty much all of his films added gravitas. Whether it was the sexy vamp in Baazi (Geeta Bali), the prostitute (Waheeda Rehman) in Pyaasa, the sharp-witted heiress in Mr & Mrs 55 (Madhubala) or the desperate alcoholic (Meena Kumari) in Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam, he created some of the most memorable female lead characters in history.
Maverick genius: Last, but not least, he was an intelligent rule-breaking genius who did things on his own terms. He turned subjects that shouldn’t have worked into successes and took chances on new talent. By breaking cinema rules, tackling taboos, and doing things on his own terms, he left a permanent mark on the movie landscape that will never be erased. That is why he should never be forgotten.
• Jury reaches verdict on 4 out of 5 charges in Sean Combs’ federal trial
• No consensus yet on racketeering conspiracy charge carrying life sentence
• Deliberations to continue Wednesday after just 13 hours behind closed doors
• Combs faces decades in prison if convicted of sex trafficking or racketeering
The jury in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal sex trafficking trial has delivered a partial verdict, agreeing on four of the five serious charges against the music mogul. However, jurors remain split on the most severe charge of racketeering conspiracy, a count that could send Combs to prison for life if convicted.
After two full days of deliberation in a New York courtroom, the 12-member panel told Judge Arun Subramanian that they had reached unanimous decisions on two counts of sex trafficking and two counts related to transportation for prostitution. These verdicts remain sealed for now.
Sean "Puffy" Combs arrives at New York State Supreme Court in New York city 29 February, 2000Getty Images
Jury stalled over racketeering conspiracy charge
The panel informed the judge on Tuesday evening that they were unable to agree on the racketeering conspiracy charge due to “unpersuadable opinions on both sides.” The charge is the most complex, requiring jurors to determine if Combs operated a coordinated criminal enterprise involving at least two crimes across several years.
Combs has denied all five charges. He sat quietly in court as Judge Subramanian declined to accept a partial verdict and ordered deliberations to continue. His defence team had requested more time to try for full consensus.
Jury reaches partial verdict in Diddy trial but stalls on racketeering charge Getty Images
Sex trafficking and prostitution charges under wraps
Though the jury has reached decisions on the remaining charges, the court has not revealed those verdicts yet. If found guilty of sex trafficking, Combs faces a minimum sentence of 15 years, while convictions on the prostitution-related charges carry up to 10 years each.
The case is based on disturbing testimony from 34 witnesses, including two of Combs’ ex-girlfriends. The government alleges that the Bad Boy Records founder orchestrated “Freak Offs” or sex marathons involving drugs, male escorts, and coercion, often across state lines.
Sean "P. Diddy" Combs performs during taping for the opening of the MTV Beach HouseGetty Images
Cassie’s testimony and surveillance video central to case
One of the most damning pieces of evidence came from R&B singer Cassie Ventura, who testified that Combs abused her physically and sexually during their decade-long relationship. The jury reviewed her account of a 2016 hotel hallway assault, captured on surveillance video, where Combs was seen kicking and dragging her.
Prosecutors say the footage supports Ventura’s claim that she tried to flee a coerced sex party. They argue Combs used threats, money, and fear of public humiliation to control and exploit her.
Sean "Puffy" Combs arrives at Manhattan Supreme Court February 28, 2001Getty Images
Defence paints alternate picture of consensual lifestyle
Combs’ attorneys insist the trial is a smear campaign aimed at criminalising the artist’s consensual swinger lifestyle. They argue his personal relationships were toxic but not criminal, and the alleged abuse, while serious, does not meet the bar for federal sex trafficking or racketeering.
Marc Agnifilo, attorney for Sean "Diddy" Combs, arrives at federal court Getty Images
They also reject claims that his employees helped facilitate illegal acts, saying any staff involvement was limited to professional duties, not criminal collaboration.
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Rachel Zegler stuns in Jamie Lloyd’s Evita as Palladium crowds grow nightly
Rachel Zegler plays Eva Perón in Jamie Lloyd’s radical Evita revival at the London Palladium.
A viral moment features Zegler singing live from the theatre’s balcony to crowds on the street.
Lloyd’s stripped-down staging amps up visuals and sound but sacrifices storytelling depth.
Talks are on for a Broadway transfer as early as 2026 with Zegler confirmed to reprise her role.
Rachel Zegler commands the London stage as Eva Perón in Jamie Lloyd’s daring reimagining of Evita, a production that trades subtlety for spectacle and could soon be heading to Broadway.
Following the success of Sunset Boulevard, Lloyd’s signature stripped-down style meets rock concert intensity in this revived version of the Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice musical. Zegler, in only her second major stage role, dazzles with commanding vocals and presence, even as critics debate the show’s dramatic clarity.
Jamie Lloyd’s Evita with Rachel Zegler set for Broadway after London triumphInstagram/officialevita
Zegler’s Evita performance leaves no doubt
From her first note, Rachel Zegler proves she’s no newcomer to the stage. Her performance, both vocally and physically, carries the entire show, even when the production leans more into visual punch than emotional depth. Zegler’s rendition of Don’t Cry for Me Argentina, performed from the Palladium’s real-life balcony to street crowds below, has already become the production’s signature moment. The scene is filmed live and broadcast inside, symbolically capturing Eva Perón’s manipulation of public adoration.
Staging pushes boundaries with video and spectacle
Jamie Lloyd’s direction strips the production down to a giant grey staircase and replaces traditional storytelling with flashing lights, camera close-ups, and muscular choreography. While critics say some scenes lose emotional resonance, especially in the second act, others land with undeniable theatrical force. Some note the live camera work, booming lighting, and thundering score often feel closer to a Beyoncé tour than traditional West End fare.
After drawing big names on opening night, from Pedro Pascal and Keanu Reeves to Elaine Paige, the show’s success has sparked conversations about a Broadway transfer. Lloyd, backed by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber, is pushing for an early 2026 New York run. Logistics are already in motion, with plans to replicate the live balcony scene in the heart of Manhattan, pending city approval for crowd management.
Though visually electrifying, the production has drawn criticism for flattening the emotional arc of Eva Perón’s story. Supporting roles, including Diego Andres Rodriguez as Che and James Olivas as Juan Perón, offer committed performances, but critics say the narrative lacks clarity. Still, audiences have been captivated, and the show has crossed into public conversation beyond theatre circles, exactly the kind of impact Lloyd seems to be chasing.
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Fans await Ramayana teaser as early reviews spark buzz online
First glimpse of Ramayana to release on 3 July; teaser is three minutes long.
Taran Adarsh calls it “a film for generations,” praises vision and visuals.
Ranbir Kapoor leads as Lord Ram, alongside Sai Pallavi and Yash.
The film is split into two parts: Diwali 2026 and Diwali 2027 releases confirmed.
Nitesh Tiwari’s much-awaited cinematic adaptation of Ramayana is finally ready to be unveiled. The first official glimpse of the mythological epic drops on 3 July, but even before its release, early reactions are adding to the anticipation.
Trade analyst Taran Adarsh, who got an exclusive preview of the three-minute teaser and an extended seven-minute vision reel, has described the film as “a timeless saga” that will not only captivate today’s audience but also resonate with generations to come.
Producer Namit Malhotra reveals how AI will make Ramayana resonate globally with native-language realism IMDB/Reddit
“Box office hurricane loading,” says Taran Adarsh after preview
Taking to social media platform X, Taran Adarsh shared his first impression of the teaser and vision reel, writing, “Just watched the first glimpse and a seven-minute vision showreel of the most-awaited epic, Ramayana. This glimpse of the timeless saga leaves you awestruck. Strong feeling: Ramayana is not just a film for today, but for generations to come. #BoxOffice hurricane loading.”
His post has sparked widespread buzz online, with fans and film critics alike flooding timelines with excitement for the film’s grand vision.
— (@)
All-star cast and production scale impress fans
The film brings together a powerful cast: Ranbir Kapoor takes on the role of Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi plays Sita, and KGF star Yash portrays the feared Raavan.
Other roles include Sunny Deol as Hanuman, Ravi Dubey as Laxman, Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi, Rakul Preet Singh as Surpanakha, and Kajal Aggarwal as Mandodari.
Directed by Dangal filmmaker Nitesh Tiwari and produced by Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios in collaboration with Yash’s Monster Mind Creations, the project aims to bring India’s most beloved epic to the big screen with high-standard VFX and global storytelling appeal.
The music is composed by two Oscar-winning giants: Hans Zimmer and AR Rahman, adding further gravitas to the scale.
Ranbir Kapoor’s personal transformation for Lord Ram
Ranbir Kapoor has undergone a complete lifestyle transformation to play Lord Ram. According to reports, he followed a strict regimen, including quitting alcohol and non-vegetarian food, adopting natural fitness routines, and even learning archery.
His dedication has been widely praised, especially after a heartfelt video from the shoot wrap surfaced. In the clip, Ranbir calls this “the most important role of my life” and emotionally thanks his co-stars and crew for their hard work.
The shoot for Part 1 has officially wrapped, and filming for Part 2 will commence in August.
Ranbir Kapoor hugs Ravi Dubey after wrap speech on Ramayana set Twitter/Raymond/Cinegeek
Nationwide teaser launch and global ambitions
The teaser will be launched simultaneously across nine major Indian cities on 3 July. While fans will get their first look then, the seven-minute “vision reel” will remain exclusive until a later date, likely closer to the theatrical release.
Interestingly, the film is also expected to have a global rollout, with Warner Bros reportedly handling international distribution, another sign of the scale the makers are targeting.
Yash in discussion with stunt director Guy Norris during Ramayana shoot Twitter/@SumitkadeI
Producer Namit Malhotra earlier wrote on Instagram, “More than a decade ago, I embarked on a noble quest to bring this epic to the big screen… Our teams work tirelessly with one purpose: to present the most authentic, sacred, and visually stunning adaptation of our history, our truth, and our culture.”
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Vismaya Mohanlal makes her film debut with Malayalam project Thudakkam
Vismaya Mohanlal to debut in Thudakkam, helmed by Jude Anthany Joseph.
The Malayalam film is produced by Antony Perumbavoor under Aashirvad Cinemas.
Mohanlal and Pranav Mohanlal posted heartfelt messages welcoming Vismaya to cinema.
Vismaya is also a published poet and visual artist with a book titled Grains of Stardust.
Malayalam superstar Mohanlal’s daughter, Vismaya Mohanlal, is stepping into cinema with Thudakkam, a Malayalam feature directed by 2018 filmmaker Jude Anthany Joseph. The announcement, made on social media by her father and production house Aashirvad Cinemas, marks Vismaya’s formal entry into acting after years of working quietly as a poet and artist.
Vismaya Mohanlal transitions from poetry and art to acting in ThudakkamInstagram/mayamohanlal
Jude Anthany Joseph teams up with Aashirvad Cinemas for Thudakkam
The upcoming film Thudakkam is being produced by Aashirvad Cinemas, the renowned banner behind many of Mohanlal’s blockbusters. Director Jude Anthany Joseph, known for 2018: Everyone Is a Hero, said he felt a personal responsibility when entrusted with Vismaya’s debut.
“It’s a humble film, but one made from the heart,” he shared, promising to honour the trust shown by Mohanlal and his wife, Suchitra. Details about the film’s plot and cast remain under wraps, though early hints suggest an action-driven storyline, possibly tapping into Vismaya’s martial arts background.
— (@)
Vismaya Mohanlal brings her artistic journey to screen
Before venturing into films, Vismaya carved a creative path through literature and painting. In 2021, she published Grains of Stardust, a collection of poems and illustrations that offered glimpses into her introspective world. Written in a raw, spontaneous style, many of the poems were jotted down during subway rides or inspired by fleeting moments in nature.
Her brother, actor Pranav Mohanlal, encouraged her to compile them into a book. With both siblings now in the film industry, Thudakkam also adds to the growing list of second-generation talents in Malayalam cinema, including Dulquer Salmaan, Keerthy Suresh, and Kalidas Jayaram.
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Glen Powell stars in Edgar Wright’s The Running Man based on Stephen King’s dystopian thriller
• Glen Powell stars as Ben Richards in The Running Man, directed by Edgar Wright.
• Based on Stephen King’s 1982 novel and a remake of the 1987 Arnold Schwarzenegger film.
• Powell plays a desperate father competing in a televised death game to save his daughter.
• The action-thriller hits cinemas on 7 November 2025 via Paramount Pictures.
Glen Powell races against time in The Running Man, the latest high-stakes action film from director Edgar Wright. Based on Stephen King’s 1982 novel, the story reimagines the cult 1987 film through a modern lens. Powell stars as Ben Richards, a working-class father who enters a violent, state-sponsored game show to fund his daughter’s medical treatment, but quickly becomes a national sensation and a symbol of rebellion.
Edgar Wright’s high-energy vision for Stephen King’s dystopia
Wright, known for Baby Driver and Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, employs his signature fast-paced style here. The film is set in a bleak future where contestants, or “Runners,” must survive 30 days while being hunted by professional assassins called “Hunters.” The entire ordeal is broadcast to a bloodthirsty audience, with each day increasing the prize money and the danger. Powell’s character gains unexpected popularity, forcing the game’s creators to reckon with the monster they’ve built.
Josh Brolin plays the charismatic yet ruthless producer Dan Killian, while Colman Domingo appears as host Bobby Thompson. The ensemble cast also includes Katy O’Brian as a fellow contestant, Lee Pace as a top-tier Hunter, and Michael Cera as a rogue insider aiding Richards.
Glen Powell’s rise continues with another genre-bending role
Following recent hits like Hit Man, Anyone but You, and Twisters, Glen Powell continues his streak with The Running Man. His role as Ben Richards combines grit, heart, and defiance, positioning him as a reluctant hero challenging a corrupt system.
The screenplay, co-written by Wright and Michael Bacall, blends action, satire, and social commentary. With a stellar cast and Wright’s kinetic direction, The Running Man is poised to be a major autumn release.