independent filmmaking

Tribeny Rai's debut feature, "Shape of Momo," is set for a theatrical release in India and Nepal on May 29, 2026, backed by Spirit Media and executive produced by Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti, and Payal Kapadia. The film, set in a Himalayan village, explores generational female relationships and the complex connection to home. It has garnered international acclaim and awards.

The Investigator has won the Special Jury Prize for Best International Film at the Yokohama International Film Festival 2026, where it represented India as the only competing feature film. Directed by Kamil Shaikh, the independent psychological thriller was made by a seven-member crew and has been receiving strong responses at international screenings.

Actor-entrepreneur Akshay Jha is taking independent cinema beyond traditional theatrical spaces with his initiative, Cinema Salon. After working in films like Mission Mangal and Class of '83, Jha shifted focus towards creating a platform that connects filmmakers directly with audiences through curated screenings and discussions. Speaking about the challenges faced by indie films, he says distribution remains tougher than filmmaking itself. With Cinema Salon expanding internationally to cities like Madrid, Cannes and Berlin, Jha hopes to create a more immersive and community-driven film-viewing experience that prioritises storytelling and audience engagement.

Everyday sexism, often disguised as humor or concern, pushes women into silence, speakers noted at a #StandWithHer campaign event. Panelists, including filmmakers and police officials, discussed how casual remarks and workplace dynamics impact women's emotional safety and self-censorship, emphasizing the need for societal and workplace change.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has updated its rules for the Oscars. AI-generated performances and scripts will not be eligible for awards. Human actors must consent to their roles. Screenplays must be human-authored. The Academy will verify AI usage. This move follows concerns about AI in filmmaking and recent Hollywood strikes.

David Morrissey revealed his battle with severe anxiety and alcoholism, which began in his teenage years after his father's death. The actor, now sober for 21 years, discussed his self-destructive behavior and the challenges of quitting. He found a path to recovery and a sense of self-worth through acting.

Google celebrated Sir David Attenborough's 100th birthday with a special Doodle, featuring animal animations. The renowned naturalist is marking the milestone with family before a BBC tribute event at the Royal Albert Hall. His legacy, including his 1979 'Life on Earth' series and a stark warning about human impact on nature, was highlighted.

The Oscars are embracing AI, emphasizing human authorship for 2027 awards while not banning the technology. Performances require human consent, and screenplays must be human-authored. Significant changes also expand international film eligibility, recognizing top festival winners directly, not just country submissions, and honoring filmmakers over nations.

Aamir Khan revealed he lets his son Junaid forge his own path in Bollywood, with Junaid independently pursuing theatre and auditions. Aamir learned of Junaid's debut in 'Maharaj' from Aditya Chopra. He also shared a touching anecdote about his close bond with his children, particularly his son.

Runa Laila, celebrating 50 years in Hindi films, continues to bridge India and Bangladesh through her music. Her powerful voice, first heard in 'Ek Se Badhkar Ek,' has been a constant amidst political shifts. Receiving the Minar-e-Dilli award, she emphasized music's healing power, a sentiment echoed by fans who find solace in her melodies.

Indian filmmaker Payal Kapadia, whose film 'All We Imagine as Light' bagged the Grand Prix at the 77th Cannes Film Festival, is set to return to the festival.

Excitement is building for 'Awarapan 2', the sequel to the 2007 hit, releasing August 14, 2026. Emraan Hashmi reprises his lead role, joined by Disha Patani. Director Nitin Kakkar helms the project, as Mohit Suri confirms he wasn’t offered the film but remains supportive of his frequent collaborator, Emraan Hashmi.

How Subodh Kerkar’s Ocean Odyssey ignited Hooligaanism’s most ambitious project yet

Speculation is rife as Allu Arjun was reportedly spotted at a special screening of the Michael Jackson biopic, 'Michael', in Hyderabad. While the film, starring Jaafar Jackson, has garnered mixed reviews, the actor's alleged presence has fueled fan interest. Meanwhile, filmmaker Sandeep Reddy Vanga expressed his desire to direct an MJ biopic, even considering Arjun for the lead.