Sizzling Samachar of the Day HT Smartcast

Netflix has secured Monsanto, a compelling legal drama directed by John Lee Hancock, which was a highlight at Cannes. The film, starring Glen Powell, Anthony Mackie, and Laura Dern, recounts the true story of lawyer Brent Wisner played by Powell who challenges a giant corporation, Monsanto, in a groundbreaking lawsuit. Mackie portrays Dewayne Johnson, a school groundskeeper claiming Monsanto’s herbicide, Roundup, caused his cancer. Dern plays Monsanto’s chief toxicologist. The film addresses the contentious debate over glyphosate, following a landmark 2018 case where Monsanto was found liable for Johnson’s cancer, marking a significant victory for consumer safety.

Prabhas stars in the highly anticipated sci-fi epic Kalki 2898 AD, directed by Nag Ashwin, set for a June release. The film's new sneak peek features Prabhas as Bhairava, teaming up with Bujji, a witty, futuristic car. Their dynamic resembles the banter between Marvel's Tony Stark and Jarvis. Inspired by Hindu mythology, the story is set in a dystopian world where Bhairava, seen as the prophesied saviour, battles corrupt establishments. The film promises humour, action, and a fresh take on the legend of Kalki, the final incarnation of Lord Vishnu, destined to save mankind.

Marvel icons Mark Ruffalo and Chris Hemsworth are set to star in Crime 101, a jewel heist film directed by Bart Layton, known for The Tinder Swindler. The film, an adaptation of Don Winslow's novel, will see Hemsworth also producing alongside Elsa Pataky and Ben Grayson. Crime 101, compared to the classic heist thriller Heat, involves a series of jewel thefts linked to Colombian cartels. Although plot details remain secretive, the project promises to be a major draw for Marvel fans and is scheduled for a 2025 theatrical release.

Ted Lasso star Hannah Waddingham has provided a significant update on the highly anticipated Mission: Impossible 8. Speaking at the world premiere of The Garfield Movie, Waddingham confirmed that the team is set to resume filming, which had been delayed due to the 2023 SAG and WGA strikes. Initially scheduled for a June 28, 2024 release, the film is now expected to hit theatres on May 23, 2025. Waddingham, who plays a "powerful" and "functional" character, shared her excitement about working alongside Tom Cruise, describing him as "gorgeous and inspirational." Her role includes thrilling scenes filmed aboard the USS George H.W. Bush aircraft carrier, highlighting the film's commitment to delivering high-octane action. While specific plot details remain secretive, the film is expected to continue Ethan Hunt's battle against global conspiracies, featuring a mix of returning characters and new faces.

Excitement for the Telugu action film Devara: Part 1 has reached new heights with the release of the promo for its first track, Fear Song. Composed by Anirudh Ravichander, the song will be unveiled on the eve of Jr. NTR's birthday, May 19, 2024. The promo showcases Jr. NTR in various powerful settings, from walking confidently along the coast to commanding respect on the sea, emphasising his character's formidable presence. Anirudh Ravichander adds his charisma, singing the anthem “All Hail The Tiger" Directed by Koratala Siva, Devara: Part 1 is a highly anticipated two-part epic produced by Yuvasudha Arts and NTR Arts, and presented by Nandamuri Kalyan Ram. The film features a star-studded cast, including Saif Ali Khan and Janhvi Kapoor, and is set to release on October 10, 2024.

Josh Brolin, known for roles like Thanos in the MCU and Gurney Halleck in Dune, directed Episode 6 of Outer Range Season 2, showcasing his creative vision. Brolin's passion for directing has been a decade in the making, ignited during his work on No Country for Old Men. He expressed immense enjoyment in directing, comparing it only to parenting. Now, Brolin is developing his feature-length directorial debut, along with other creative projects.