Haseen Dillruba, starring Taapsee Pannu, Vikrant Massey, and Harshvardhan Rane, turned out to be a major hit upon its direct-to-digital premiere on Netflix last year.
The film, produced by Aanand L Rai, marked the directorial comeback of filmmaker Vinil Mathew after a long gap of seven years.
Eastern Eye recently caught up with Mathew and tried to find out how the success of Haseen Dillruba has changed things for him, why it took him nearly 7 years to direct his second film after Hasee Toh Phasee, his next projects, and much more. The filmmaker also talks about his expectations from 2022.
I would like to begin by asking: what made you fall in love with cinema? If I am not wrong, you dropped out of college to pursue a career in filmmaking.
The first time I toyed with the idea of joining films was when I saw Mani Ratnam's Roja in high school. It was a film like never before—from its cinematography by Santosh Sivan, the music by A R Rahman, and a human story with a crucial issue at its core by Mani Sir. It was a craft of filmmaking that one had never seen before in India. It was differentiated from the usual escapist fair one saw at that time. I saw the film in a loop. It inspired me to do something with cinema. After finishing my Economics Honours at Delhi University, I was well prepared to pursue a career in Economics. Later, I gave the entrance exam for FTII, Pune, and got selected for the Direction course. It was a tough call, but I decided to go with my heart. And that's how my journey in filmmaking started!
What has 2021 been like for you? I assume it would have been fantastic as you scored a big hit in the form of Haseen Dillruba.
2021 is the year when my second film, Haseen Dillruba, released on Netflix and went on to become one of their biggest hits. It was the most-watched film in India and topped the charts in 20 countries across the globe. It is something that I am extremely grateful for and happy about because I was able to release my film and find so much love in a challenging Covid-19 year. I consider myself lucky that I got a chance to showcase my work to a wide audience and receive so much love in a year that was bleak and uncertain.
What are your expectations from 2022?
My hope and expectation from 2022 are to find an end to Covid-19. I wish we could return to pre-covid days, to a world that is healthier, safer, and normal. One can enjoy life unmasked and without all the restrictions. I am looking forward to theatres being full again and people coming in, watching, and experiencing movies on the big screens. Personally, I would spend 2022 writing my film. I hope to finish it this year and start casting and shooting for the project.
How has Haseen Dillruba's rousing success changed things for you?
When I started working on Haseen Dillruba, I was a bit nervous because it was a different kind of story; for the first time, we were using Hindi pulp fiction in a film. Here we were taking a thriller and a love story and telling it in the form of pulp fiction. It was challenging for me, as a filmmaker, to tell this story because many genres were combined and the characters had steak arches. When we found love from the audience, we were at peace! I am happy that my experiment and pushing the boundaries of cinema were appreciated. It encourages me to try different things next time as well.
Did you always have a feeling Haseen Dillruba would be successful?
Haseen Dillruba came after a gap of seven years after Hasee Toh Phasee. This long gap was neither planned nor desired. But as a filmmaker, I would rather wait to tell a story that excites me rather than make a film for the sake of making it. It just so happened that there were very few stories that excited me to explore it further. Filmmaking is also about the coming together of a great cast, producers, and good stories. Sometimes all the elements don't fit together, and they are out of your control. Luckily, Haseen Dillruba happened really quickly. It was the process that I really enjoyed.
Why did it take you nearly 7 years to direct your second film after Hasee Toh Phasee?
From all the love that I have received for Haseen Dillruba, I feel encouraged to keep trying out different edgy stories. I love dealing with human relationships, and I think it is my forte. Haseen Dillruba was so different from Hasee Toh Phasee. But both are quirky and genre-bending stories. That is the path I most enjoy pursuing. I enjoy bringing out different human stories that challenge me as a filmmaker and the audience. Stories that encourage me to take bigger risks, and hopefully, they all find the love they deserve.
Will you be exploring the digital space soon, or do you just want to focus on the big screen?
Personally, I enjoy the big screen experience. The magic of watching a film in a dark room with 200 people and enjoying emotions, humour, and thrills collectively as an audience is unmatched. It is more festive when you watch a film with other people. Even on the technical level, one can shoot a film differently and make it larger-than-life. The idea of sound and experience is more magical on a big screen. Having said that, it also depends on the story that one is writing. Some stories are more personal and intimate. If I am working on such a story, I would rather reach out to people on an OTT platform. So, it depends on the content. I am happy to explore both options.
Do you think it is going to be difficult for filmmakers to bring audiences back to cinemas in a post-Covid world?
It will be a challenge to get the audience back to the theatres. Because of Covid, people have suffered so much loss & there is a lot of anxiety around. I think people are just picking back their lives to some normalcy, and watching a film in a theatre might not be a priority. People who are scared of contracting Covid-19 are reluctant of going back to the theatre and might wait until it is completely safe. We will have an uncertain trajectory till Covid ends unless something compelling comes up, like Spiderman or 83, that it becomes an event. It will be patchy until the pandemic. But in the long term, movie-going is a part of a culture, and it will stay. We enjoy films with friends and family. So, we will have a resounding return to theatres soon.
Do you think that theatres and streaming platforms can co-exist without eating into each other’s markets?
OTT platforms and theatres will happily co-exist in the future. It will depend on the story you want to tell. Like I said before, there are big-screen experiences, the event films, that need the grandeur of a theatrical release. Then there are edgy and risky stories that might demand a more intimate experience, which an OTT platform can serve the best. It is a boon for both the audience and the filmmakers to have an alternative to movie theatres. Many stories that would not have been made in earlier days are finally finding so much love from the audience on the OTT platforms.
What are you working on now?
Currently, I am working on a love story. I don't think I can tell you more about it at this point. But it will again be something different from what one has seen before. It has an interesting take on human relationships. I am looking forward to completing the draft and starting the casting process. Hopefully, we will commence the shoot soon.
A London street has been turned into Privet Drive for the new Harry Potter series
Locals in Upminster say they were not told filming was for the HBO remake
Some residents fear being “bombarded with wizards” while others are thrilled
Cast includes Arabella Stanton, Dominic McLaughlin and Alastair Stout
A quiet street in east London has been transformed into Privet Drive for the new Harry Potter series, but locals are unhappy they were not properly informed about the filming. Springfield Gardens in Upminster, chosen to double as the boy wizard’s childhood home, has left neighbours divided, with some welcoming the attention while others worry they will be “bombarded with wizards.” The HBO production, part of a major reboot, has already brought cameras, drones and fans to the area.
The new Harry Potter series stars Arabella Stanton, Dominic McLaughlin and Alastair Stout Instagram/harrypotterhbonotofficial
Why is Harry Potter filming in London’s Upminster?
The new Harry Potter series, commissioned by HBO, is reimagining J.K. Rowling’s story for television. Springfield Gardens, a 1930s Tudor-style street in Upminster, was selected to represent Privet Drive, where Harry spent his early years with the Dursleys.
Filming began in June, with drone shots and cameras set up across the residential area. While residents received letters about filming, many say they were not told it was for Harry Potter, which has fuelled frustration given the global scale of the franchise.
What have residents said about the Harry Potter filming?
Local mother Katie, 42, said she was shocked to discover her home featured on Harry Potter fan pages without her consent. “We just saw some cameras outside, they never said what it was for. We are going to get bombarded with wizards,” she told the Telegraph.
Her husband Wayne added that he only realised their house was being used after work colleagues showed him press coverage. “Some guys from my work were like ‘look, they have picked the new Harry Potter house’ and it was my home. At no point did they say it was Harry Potter, so it was a bit of a shock,” he said.
Some neighbours, however, welcomed the project. Sue Baldwin, 63, a self-confessed superfan, said: “I am Harry Potter mad. We love to go to Disneyland to see all the Harry Potter stuff. My grandkids love the films so when I called my daughter to tell her, she thought it was amazing.”
The Harry Potter reboot becomes the most expensive TV show ever Amazon
Who stars in the new Harry Potter series?
The television reboot has introduced a new cast to play the beloved trio. Arabella Stanton takes on the role of Hermione Granger, Dominic McLaughlin will play Harry Potter, and Alastair Stout has been cast as Ron Weasley.
British actor Nick Frost has also been spotted during filming, transformed into Hagrid. The production is expected to run for several years, with each season covering one book from the seven-part saga.
How are residents preparing for Harry Potter fans?
Since the news broke, fans have already started visiting Springfield Gardens to take photos outside the houses. Some residents have joked about selling Harry Potter merchandise, while others worry about safety and privacy as crowds grow.
One father living on the street said: “We have already had people outside after dark when we have two young kids, which is very strange. I think it is a mixed bag, some people are excited, and some are concerned.”
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Justin Bieber makes surprise entry at an Indian bride’s wedding in Los Angeles
Justin Bieber makes unexpected appearance at an Indian wedding in Los Angeles
Bride and guests left delighted as the pop star mingled and posed for photos
Videos and pictures of the moment spread widely online, with fans praising him
The singer recently released his new album Swag featuring multiple collaborations
Pop icon Justin Bieber surprised an Indian bride at her wedding in Los Angeles, turning her big day into an unforgettable celebration. The Justin Bieber wedding surprise quickly spread across social media, with photos and videos showing the star smiling, mingling with guests, and posing with the bridal squad. His warm gesture has been hailed by fans, with many calling it the best wedding gift ever.
Justin Bieber makes surprise entry at an Indian bride’s wedding in Los Angeles Instagram/justinstournews
What happened at the Justin Bieber wedding surprise?
A clip shared by a fan page showed Bieber walking into the wedding venue unexpectedly, leaving the bride and her guests visibly thrilled. The video carried the caption: “Justin Bieber surprised a bride for her wedding in Los Angeles, CA.”
For the occasion, the Canadian singer kept his look relaxed in a plain white T-shirt and blue shorts, paired with a bold blue fur jacket. The bride dazzled in a traditional green saree, accessorised with gold jewellery and kaleeras tied to her wrists. The mix of Hollywood cool and Indian tradition clearly gave the ceremony a unique charm.
How did fans react to Justin Bieber at the wedding?
The candid footage of Bieber chatting and taking photos with the bridesmaids quickly drew attention online. Admirers flooded social media with heartfelt comments. One wrote, “He’s the sweetest.” Another said, “She is so lucky – best surprise and wedding gift for her.”
A different fan gushed, “SO CUTEEE OMGGG she’s so lucky! @lilbieber I don’t even have a man but come to my wedding pls.” Some even joked that they would have cried if they were in the bride’s place. While many praised his kindness, a few questioned his unusual choice of outfit for the occasion.
Has Justin Bieber attended Indian weddings before?
This is not the first time Bieber has been part of an Indian wedding celebration. In 2024, he performed at the sangeet of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant in Mumbai. The high-profile event also saw international stars Rihanna and Katy Perry perform.
The Los Angeles appearance, though far more casual, showcased a more spontaneous side of the pop star and delighted fans who are used to seeing him only on global stages.
Beyond weddings, Bieber recently made headlines for his return to music. On 11 July 2025, he dropped his seventh studio album Swag without prior notice. The album features collaborations with artists including Gunna, Druski, Dijon, Lil B, Sexyy Red, Cash Cobain, Eddie Benjamin, and gospel legend Marvin Winans.
The unexpected release has been widely discussed among music followers, with fans praising the fresh sound and diverse guest appearances. The wedding surprise, combined with the album’s release, signals a busy and memorable phase for the star.
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Farhan Akhtar confirms Jee Le Zaraa is not shelved but cast uncertain
Farhan Akhtar says Jee Le Zaraa has been delayed but not shelved
Significant work including music and location scouting already completed
Director cannot confirm if Alia Bhatt, Priyanka Chopra and Katrina Kaif remain attached
Project first announced in 2021 as a female-led road trip film
Filmmaker-actor Farhan Akhtar has clarified that his highly anticipated film Jee Le Zaraa has not been shelved. Speaking about the much-discussed project, Akhtar said the film is simply “on the back burner” due to scheduling conflicts. The clarification comes after years of speculation that the all-female road trip film, originally announced with Priyanka Chopra, Katrina Kaif and Alia Bhatt, might have been abandoned.
Farhan Akhtar confirms Jee Le Zaraa is not shelved but cast uncertain Instagram/priyankachopra
Is Jee Le Zaraa cancelled?
During an interview, Akhtar addressed whether the film had been dropped altogether. He said:
“I would hate to say that it’s shelved. What I will say is that it’s put on a back burner. It is a film that will happen. I don’t know when it will be. But it’s too delicious a script.”
He added that extensive pre-production work, including location scouting and music recording, had already been completed, confirming that the creative groundwork for the film is in place.
When asked about the previously announced cast, Akhtar admitted that he could no longer comment. “I can’t comment on the cast on that anymore,” he said, hinting that the lineup featuring Chopra, Kaif and Bhatt may not be final. The uncertainty around casting has been one of the biggest reasons behind the prolonged delay.
Industry reports previously suggested that the global work commitments of Chopra and the packed schedules of Kaif and Bhatt created significant challenges in aligning dates for the shoot.
The delay has been attributed primarily to calendar clashes. In an earlier interview, Akhtar explained that conflicting schedules were the main hurdle, especially after the Hollywood actors’ strike disrupted Chopra’s availability. “We just have issues with dates,” he said, adding that the film seems to have “a destiny of its own.”
Since then, speculation has grown over whether the trio of stars originally attached will still be part of the project, but Akhtar’s recent remarks confirm that while the cast may be uncertain, the film itself remains in motion.
Fans await clarity on whether Priyanka Chopra, Alia Bhatt and Katrina Kaif will reunite on screen in Jee Le ZaraaGetty Images
What is Jee Le Zaraa about?
Jee Le Zaraa was announced in 2021 to mark the 20th anniversary of Akhtar’s debut film Dil Chahta Hai. It was promoted as a female-led road trip drama, echoing the friendship themes of Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara. The script has been co-written by Akhtar, Zoya Akhtar and Reema Kagti, with production under Excel Entertainment and Tiger Baby Films.
When it was first revealed, Chopra described the film as “a celebration of sisterhood and friendship,” sharing that the idea emerged from her desire to create a Hindi film headlined by three women. The initial announcement, featuring Chopra, Kaif and Bhatt together, created huge excitement among fans.
While Jee Le Zaraa remains on hold, Akhtar is currently focusing on Don 3, which will star Ranveer Singh. The film is expected to begin production once Singh completes his current projects.
Akhtar is also preparing for the release of 120 Bahadur, a war drama in which he plays Major Shaitan Singh Bhati, who led Indian troops at the Battle of Rezang La in 1962. The film is slated for release on 21 November.
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Fifth Harmony reunite on stage in Dallas after seven years
Normani, Ally Brooke, Dinah Jane and Lauren Jauregui perform together in Dallas
Surprise appearance happened during Jonas Brothers’ concert stop in Texas
Group’s social media accounts updated with new logo and merchandise
Camila Cabello absent as she continues solo tour in Australia
US pop group Fifth Harmony’s reunion has sent fans into a frenzy after the chart-topping girl band returned to the stage for the first time in seven years. Their surprise appearance at a Jonas Brothers concert in Dallas on Sunday, 31 August, also came with new merchandise and updated social media branding, signalling that the quartet may be preparing for a bigger comeback.
Fifth Harmony reunite on stage in Dallas after seven years Getty Images
What happened at the Fifth Harmony reunion performance?
Normani, Ally Brooke, Dinah Jane and Lauren Jauregui appeared at the Jonas Brothers’ Jonas20: Greetings from Your Hometown tour stop at Dos Equis Pavilion in Texas. Dressed in coordinated black outfits, they performed two of their best-known singles, Worth It and Work From Home.
The reunion marked the first time the group has performed together since their 2018 “indefinite hiatus.” The Jonas Brothers hugged the members on stage, and the official Fifth Harmony account later thanked them on X, writing: “Felt amazing to be back.”
Camila Cabello, who left the band in December 2016, did not take part in the reunion. On the same night as the Dallas concert, she was performing her own solo show in Sydney. Since her departure, Cabello has enjoyed major solo success with hits such as Havana and Señorita.
Her absence has not dampened the excitement among fans, but it suggests that the current reunion is focused on the four remaining members rather than a full five-piece comeback.
The Fifth Harmony reunion generated immediate buzz online. Earlier in the day, the group’s long-inactive X account posted “#FifthHarmonyFollowSpree,” its first update in over seven years. Their website was refreshed with new branding and merchandise featuring a redesigned logo, further fuelling speculation.
Fans expressed their excitement on social media, with one writing: “I CANNOT BELIEVE MY EYES FIFTH HARMONY IS BACK.” Others noted that the new activity hinted at more announcements, possibly a documentary or reunion tour, as reported by industry outlets earlier this year.
Although no official reunion tour or album has been announced, the Dallas performance, merchandise drop and social media updates strongly suggest future plans. Industry sources previously indicated that the four members were “in talks” for a documentary and possible live dates.
Since their X Factor USA debut in 2012, Fifth Harmony have sold millions of records worldwide and achieved international chart success with songs such as Worth It and Work From Home. Their 2015 debut album Reflection and 2016 follow-up *7/27* cemented them as one of the most successful girl groups of the 2010s.
— (@)
The Dallas concert has renewed that legacy, with particular growth in their back catalogue and spikes in streaming numbers reported after the show. For now, fans will be watching the group’s online updates closely to see if this one-off reunion grows into a long-term comeback.
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Heidi and Leni Klum pose together in co-ordinated Intimissimi gowns at the Venice Film Festival
Heidi Klum and daughter Leni walked the Venice Film Festival red carpet in matching corset-style gowns.
The supermodel opted for a blush pink silk design, while Leni wore an inky black version.
Both gowns were created by Italian lingerie brand Intimissimi, for which they are ambassadors.
The mother-daughter duo previously fronted a controversial campaign for the same brand.
Heidi Klum's Venice Film Festival appearances always generate headlines, but this year she doubled the impact by walking the red carpet with her daughter Leni. The pair stunned in co-ordinated gowns from Italian intimates brand Intimissimi, bringing high fashion and red carpet glamour together in one of the festival’s most talked-about moments. Their matching corset silhouettes highlighted the duo’s modelling credentials and added a striking family twist to the opening night of the prestigious event.
Heidi and Leni Klum pose together in co-ordinated Intimissimi gowns at the Venice Film Festival Instagram/heidiklum
What did Heidi Klum wear at the Venice Film Festival?
For the opening night on 27 August, Heidi Klum chose a blush pink silk gown featuring corseted boning, a plunging neckline and a sheer bodice. The dress also showcased a dramatic thigh-high slit and hip cut-out, adding a lingerie-inspired edge. She paired the look with diamond chokers and styled her hair in rocker-style waves with new bangs, completing a striking combination of Old Hollywood glamour and modern sensuality.
Arriving at the festival by boat, Heidi shared behind-the-scenes photographs on social media showing her preparation at her Venetian hotel. Her posts included affectionate moments with Leni, with the caption that she was “having the best time with my baby” at the festival.
At just 21, Leni Klum is following closely in her mother’s modelling footsteps. On the red carpet she mirrored Heidi’s gown in a bold black version, also by Intimissimi. The design featured the same sheer corsetry and plunging neckline but offered a slightly younger twist, with symmetrical hip cut-outs and strappy sandals.
Leni accessorised her look with an emerald and diamond necklace, contrasting the darker gown with a pop of colour. She wore her hair in soft waves, echoing her mother’s style while adding her own youthful touch. Together, the pair created a co-ordinated but distinctive appearance that quickly became one of the highlights of the Venice Film Festival’s first night.
Leni Klum mirrors her mother’s red carpet style in a striking black corset gown at VeniceInstagram/heidiklum
Why is the Heidi and Leni Klum appearance significant?
This Venice outing is not the first time the duo have collaborated with Intimissimi. In 2022, Heidi and Leni starred together in a lingerie campaign for the Italian brand, which received mixed reactions. Their latest red carpet moment is seen as an extension of that partnership, bringing the lingerie-inspired designs into a high-profile international film setting.
For Heidi, the event underlined her ongoing relevance in fashion, while for Leni it marked another high-profile step in her rising career. Their joint appearance shows the generational handover in the modelling world, with Leni carving her own identity while still closely linked to her mother’s legacy.
Which other stars were spotted at the Venice Film Festival?
The 82nd Venice Film Festival, which runs from 27 August to 6 September, attracted global stars to Italy’s most glamorous red carpet. Cate Blanchett, Tilda Swinton and Julia Roberts were also photographed arriving for premieres, with Roberts making headlines for her quirky cardigan covered in portraits of Italian director Luca Guadagnino.
The festival opened with the premiere of Paolo Sorrentino’s La Grazia, a drama exploring political and personal dilemmas in Italy. With its combination of star power, fashion statements and cinematic showcases, Venice once again affirmed its position as one of the world’s most influential cultural events.