Rajkumar Hirani’s upcoming web series is special for the filmmaker for more reasons than one. Apart from marking Hirani’s debut in the digital space, the crime-drama series will also serve as the launch pad for his son, Vir. A source from the creative team tells mid-day that the Disney+ Hotstar offering revolves around two cops who come to terms with their distinct working styles. “Initially, Arshad [Warsi] was to play the role of an old-fashioned cop who likes to solve crimes in his style, while Vikrant [Massey] was set to be seen as a young computer geek who uses technology to solve crimes. It chronicles what transpires when two diverse personalities are brought together to solve crimes. Now, some changes have come into effect. While the six-episode series was to be directed by Hirani’s assistant, Amir Satyaveer Singh, now, Pataal Lok director Avinash Arun has taken his place. Also, because Vikrant is busy with his other commitments, the makers have decided to cast Vir instead.” The 12th Fail (2023) actor has not stepped back from the project, but will now slip into the role of the antagonist. The decision to cast Vir in the show, tentatively titled Pritam Pedro, did not require several rounds of discussions. He has assisted his father during the shoot of Sanju (2018), and has also studied theatre at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, London. He has directed several short films, including The Obituary, and also debuted in a play called Letters From Suresh, directed by Feroz Abbas Khan. “Vir had delivered a 35-minute monologue in it,” reveals the source, adding that the aspiring actor will be undergoing intense physical preparation for his role. “He is adhering to a rigorous diet and training schedule to play the part of a fit cop. He is also brushing up on his knowledge of computers. Since he has been involved in the scripting process, he knows each scene of the series like the back of his hand.”
15 January,2025 07:39 AM IST | Mumbai | Upala KBRThe year marked actor Zahan Kapoor's debut in the world of web series with the much-anticipated show 'Black Warrant'. The series, based on true events, follows the story of Sunil Gupta and his experiences as a jailer in Tihar Jail. While its storyline and complex characters are being liked by viewers, the cast and crew recently sat down with ANI to share their thoughts and experiences working on the show. Zahan Kapoor, who plays a key role in Black Warrant, expressed his happiness after the release of the series. He said, "After the release, everyone is happy, my family and all. They liked my work." He went on to share that his family and friends were pleased with his work, which brought him great joy. When asked about how he chooses his projects, Zahan shared his thoughts. "I am not selective. I do whatever work comes my way. Maybe after this, more opportunities will come. I will be very happy to do lots more work," he said. Rahul Bhat, who plays the character of DSP Rajesh Tomar in the series, spoke about his role. He said, "You play the way you play all the characters. I mean, it's for the audience to decide whether they love him or hate him or whatever. I played Rajesh Tomar. He is the character. This is what he is. And he must have some complaints from his own life, and he has his own philosophy on how he runs this jail. It is not an easy job." Sidhant Gupta, another key actor in the series, talked about his character and the psychological challenges he faced in playing his role. The actor, who plays the infamous 'Charles Sobhraj' in the series, said, "What was complicated was the psychology. The rest of it just followed. I wanted to have fun with it because otherwise, it gets too dark for me." Black Warrant is based on the real-life experiences of Sunil Gupta, a former Tihar Jail superintendent, and his journey as a jailer. The series also touches on prison life's complex political and human aspects. Through its gritty yet human-centered narrative, Black Warrant shows how the lives of inmates, some of whom may be innocent, are affected by a flawed system. Satyanshu Singh shared his perspective on the story and said, "I have never written anything like this, so during the research, I realized that 80 to 90 percent of the inmates are innocent. So looking at inmates with hatred or anger doesn't make sense. The system is flawed in many ways." The series, which premiered on Netflix on January 10, 2025, is directed by Vikramaditya Motwane and Satyanshu Singh, with co-directors Ambiecka Pandit, Arkesh Ajay, and Rohin Raveendran Nair. It is presented by Applause Entertainment in collaboration with Andolan Production and Confluence Media. The series is inspired by the book Black Warrant: Confessions of a Tihar Jailer by Sunil Gupta and journalist-author Sunetra Choudhury. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
14 January,2025 08:15 AM IST | New York | ANIWhen it comes to the film industry, no news usually means bad news. That, however, is not the case for the web series based on Student of the Year, which, after being announced a year ago, was barely discussed in mainstream media. But the absence of news around the series, we learn, doesn’t imply that the Karan Johar-backed project has been shelved. A source tells mid-day that work on the show is underway with director Reema Maya currently looking for her leading man. “While Alaya F and Shanaya Kapoor have already been confirmed as the lead actresses, the hunt for a male lead is underway. Reema Maya has a distinct vision for this series. Unlike the films, which had a glossy and [flamboyant] appearance, the web series will have a modern and edgy feel. It’s still set in the same world, but will focus on the interpersonal dynamics between the characters,” says the source. Maya, known for her critically acclaimed project Nocturnal Burger (2023), is determined to present the franchise in a new light. “She’s looking for someone who can complement Alaya and Shanaya, and also bring a certain gravitas to the role. This franchise has catapulted newcomers to stardom. So, this is a golden opportunity for male actors. Open casting calls are being made for both primary and secondary roles, and Karan has stated that the decision rests with Reema,” says the source, adding that the team has locked the month of April for the shoot. “Locations are currently being scouted.”
14 January,2025 07:38 AM IST | Mumbai | Mohar BasuThe newest Netflix release, Black Warrant, has the entire nation on edge. Following the release of this dark and gripping series, netizens are hailing it. Here's how X has reviewed Vikramaditya Motwane's thriller. Black Warrant's X review One user wrote, “#BlackWarrantOnNetflix is a gripping adaptation of life within Tihar's walls, told through the eyes of a jailer. The cast delivers outstanding performances, bringing their characters to life with remarkable finesse. Hats off to the makers for crafting a binge-worthy show! Thoroughly enjoyed it.” “#BlackWarrantOnNetflix is brilliant and the makers have kept it as real as possible. The seven part series picks the most sensational cases and is worth bingeing. This particular scene is among the many standout ones in the series,” another user wrote. A third fan commented, “It's freaking January and #BlackWarrantOnNetflix is already one of the best shows of the year. So thematically dense and resonant prison drama exploring the unique ecosystem of the prison system.” Rahul Bhat & Zahaan Kapoor deserve a standing ovation! My expectations were high, and they delivered. I've said this before, but it bears repeating—we need true performers, and Rahul and Zahan prove they are just that in Black Warrant!@itsRahulBhat @netflix @NetflixIndia — Iraa Paul (@paul_iraa) January 11, 2025 Another comment reads, “Just finished watching Black Warrant on Netflix. While the series is engaging, the book by Sunil Gupta offers a much deeper, more emotional exploration of controversial hangings.” A review reads, “Binged it in one go...If you are looking for a crime thriller series this is the one...casting acting music cinematography direction everything was perfect Black warrant is a must watch. Return of Bingeable Indian content on Netflix finally and that too by Motwane.” While hailing the series, one wrote, “After a long wait, I finally stumbled upon a captivating series on Netflix, ‘Black Warrant', which not only kept me entertained but also offered a revealing glimpse into life behind bars, much like 'Khaaki' had done earlier.” “#BlackWarrantOnNetflix is gripping from start to finish, with brilliant performances, a tight screenplay, and direction. Every other technical department gives firm support. #VikramadityaMotwane proves once again that he knows his craft too well! Highly recommend,” one X user shared. #BlackWarrantOnNetflix is gripping from start to finish, with brilliant performances, a tight screenplay, and direction. Every other technical department gives firm support. #VikramadityaMotwane proves once again that he knows his craft too well! Highly recommend. 👏 — Arshhhh (@ArshTanwar2) January 13, 2025 A netizen hailed Zahan and shared, “Rahul Bhat & Zahaan Kapoor deserve a standing ovation! My expectations were high, and they delivered. I've said this before, but it bears repeating—we need true performers, and Rahul and Zahaan prove they are just that in Black Warrant!” About Black Warrant Created by Vikramaditya Motwane and Satyanshu Singh, Black Warrant is set in the 1980s and portrays life inside Tihar Jail. It is loosely based on the non-fiction book Black Warrant: Confessions of a Tihar Jailer, written by Sunil Gupta. Gupta, who was once the superintendent of Tihar Jail, shares his firsthand experiences of overseeing the executions of notorious criminals like kidnappers Billa-Ranga and Kashmiri separatist Maqbool Bhat.
13 January,2025 04:59 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentCricket fans, the wait is finally over! The Greatest Rivalry: India vs Pakistan is coming to Netflix on February 7, ready to reignite every ounce of passion, pride, and adrenaline that makes India-Pakistan cricket legendary. For fans of cricket in the subcontinent, there is no bigger face-off than India vs Pakistan. This series explores the drama, passion, and high-stakes intensity of this rivalry on the home soil of both nations. Expect nail-biting finishes, unforgettable sixes, and the kind of drama that keeps you glued to your seat. This documentary not only delves into a thrilling saga of sport and history but also fuels the rising excitement to see what chapter unfolds next, making it as relevant today as it is timeless. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Netflix India (@netflix_in) The Greatest Rivalry: India vs Pakistan to go beyond the pitch From untold stories of the first India-Pakistan ODI to legends like Virender Sehwag, Sourav Ganguly. Sunil Gavaskar, and Shoaib Akhtar spilling secrets, this series is a thrilling entertainment package with surprise appearances! Enjoy a front-row seat to history, or as Virender Sehwag would say, “Jab bhi Bharat Pakistan ka Muqabala hota hai, yeh battle hoti hai — war hoti hai ground ke andar jo dono teams jeetna chahti hai.” (“Whenever India and Pakistan play, it is a battle — a war on the ground that both teams want to win.”) The Greatest Rivalry: India vs Pakistan dives headfirst into the matches that are truly “bigger than the ashes.” The series goes beyond the pitch, uncovering the personal stories, cultural undertones, and raw emotions that fuel one of the greatest rivalries in the world. Whether you cheered in packed stadiums or grew up hearing the tales, this one’s for you. Mark your calendars for February 7 and relive the highs, heartbreaks, and everything in between. This isn’t just cricket — it’s drama, entertainment, fierce competition, and the full spectrum of emotions. Team behind The Greatest Rivalry: India vs Pakistan The documentary has been directed by Chandradev Bhagat and Stewart Sugg and backed by Grey Matter Entertainment. Payal Mathur Bhagat is the executive producer of the show. The show will feature cricketing legends Virender Sehwag, Sourav Ganguly, Sunil Gavaskar, Ravichandran Ashwin, Shoaib Akhtar, Waqar Younis, Javed Miandad, Inzamam-ul-Haq
13 January,2025 11:57 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentNawazuddin Siddiqui returns as Inspector Jatil Yadav to investigate another gruelling case in the sequel of Raat Akeli Hai. The Netflix film, directed by Honey Trehan, will kick off from where it started. The first schedule began on January 9 in Delhi. The second edition will bring back four principal characters, including Radhika Apte, Tigmanshu Dhulia and Ila Arun. Raat Akeli Hai followed the journey of a small-town cop who is asked to investigate the death of a local politician. The film received critical acclaim for its direction while Siddiqui won awards for his performance as a quirky cop. “The sequel will be a fresh crime story. The only connection from Raat Akeli Hai is Radhika [who plays Radha, his paramour], Tigmanshu as senior SP Lalji Shukla IPS and Ila Arun [as Sarita Kumari, Jatil’s mother]. The film opens with Jatil enjoying domestic bliss with Radha, till a new series of crimes unfold and he is asked to solve the case,” reveals a source. Raat Akeli Hai 2 will be shot across four Indian cities, Delhi, Lucknow, Kanpur and Mumbai in a two-month schedule. The film is expected to wrap up by March 12 in Mumbai. “Everything is being shot in a hush-hush manner as the OTT channel wants to announce the sequel in a planned manner,” informs the source, adding that Apte will join the schedule in February. “Radhika gave birth to a baby in December last year. She is currently on maternity leave and will join the cast and crew from February. Her character in the sequel is expected to be darker. There will be a twist to it. A lot of Honey’s research is based on real-life situations and cops so there is a lot of authenticity in his work,” inform the source.
12 January,2025 07:07 AM IST | Mumbai | Upala KBRWith each new work, Vikramaditya Motwane seeks to explore a new world. After serving viewers with the cybercrime thriller CTRL, fronted by Ananya Panday, Motwane takes audiences inside the Tihar Jail to narrate the story of an unlikely jailer in yesterday’s Netflix release, Black Warrant. The co-creator, co-writer, and co-director of the show starring Zahan Kapoor, Motwane brings for fans of prison dramas a screen adaptation of the book, Black Warrant: Confessions of a Tihar Jailer, by journalist Sunetra Choudhury and former superintendent at Tihar Jail, Sunil Gupta. “It’s a riveting book and tells you something that you have no information about. It was interesting because no one has ever [considered a] jailer’s perspective. All the stuff we have seen about prisons is from movies [alone]. [When you read] Sunil Gupta’s stories, and the incredible situations [he finds himself in], you are sold. I knew it would make for great drama because it has a great character arc,” Motwane says. Zahan Kapoor (R) in Black Warrant However, adapting a 200-pager with a narrative that spans 35 years is no mean feat. Motwane initially considered recreating the book “exactly as it is.” “We wanted to make a limited series, but that would become very episodic. So, we thought about building Sunil’s life from the beginning and showing several aspects—what his motivation to take the job was, who was in his family, and what his day-to-day life in the jail looked like. He is not an observer, but a part of the story. Deciding how to flesh out this character was the challenge. We had a lot of conversations with Mr Gupta [and unravelled] things that aren’t in the book.” Motwane took no more than five seconds to zero in on his leading man Zahan, grandson of late Bollywood icon Shashi Kapoor. “I didn’t know he was auditioning. The moment I saw him, I thought he was great. In the first five seconds of the audition, I could see the uncertainty in his eyes. His audition was the first scene of the series, where his character is seen interviewing for a job. In a way, that was apt, because, like his character, he too was [applying for his job]. Zahan comes with a wealth of knowledge about characters and drama. More than acting, I used to discuss character arcs with him. After table reads, we would sit and discuss the missing beats.” The series also features Rahul Bhat, Paramvir Cheema, and Anurag Thakur.
11 January,2025 07:11 AM IST | Mumbai | Priyanka SharmaThe screening of Vikramaditya Motwane's upcoming release, 'Black Warrant', took place in Mumbai on Thursday evening and was attended by several celebs from B-town. The prison drama, starring Zahan Kapoor, the grandson of late Bollywood legend Shashi Kapoor, will premiere on Netflix today. Among the attendees was actor Ranbir Kapoor, Zahan's cousin, who arrived to support his family member. Ranbir posed for photos alongside Zahan and director Vikramaditya Motwane. The 'Brahmastra' actor looked dapper in a casual yet stylish denim-on-denim outfit. He wore a classic white T-shirt paired with a denim jacket and matching jeans, completing his look with white sneakers. The event was a star-studded affair with notable celebrities such as Ananya Panday, Pratik Gandhi, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Ali Fazal, and others in attendance. Talking about Black Warrant, the makers released the teaser in December last year. The teaser shows Zahan trying to survive as he learns to navigate the harsh realities of prison life, while his colleagues ask him to toughen up. The teaser also shows Rahul Bhatt, who appears to be playing the role of an authoritative cop. The series marks Zahan's debut in the world of web series. The film is directed by Motwane and Satyanshu Singh, along with co-directors Ambiecka Pandit, Arkesh Ajay and Rohin Raveendran Nair. Paramvir Singh Cheema, Anurag Thakur and Sidhant Gupta, also play key roles. Presented by Applause Entertainment in collaboration with Andolan Production and Confluence Media, the series is inspired by true events and is based on the book 'Black Warrant: Confessions of a Tihar Jailer' by Sunil Gupta, a former Tihar Jail superintendent, and journalist-author Sunetra Choudhury. The series will premiere on Netflix on January 10, 2025. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
10 January,2025 09:13 AM IST | Mumbai | ANIMakers of the much-awaited crime drama series 'Chidiya Udd', starring actor Jackie Shroff, unveiled the official trailer on Wednesday, offering fans a glimpse into its gripping narrative. The series, based on Aabid Surti's critically acclaimed novel 'Cages', revolves around the harsh realities of Mumbai's underworld. Directed by Ravi Jadhav and produced by Harman Baweja and Vicky Bahri, the series features a cast that includes Bhoomika Meena, Sikandar Kher, Madhur Mittal, Mayur More, and Mita Vashisht. 'Chidiya Udd' follows the story of Seher (played by Bhoomika), a young woman from Rajasthan, who struggles to break free from the clutches of crime and power in Mumbai. Check out the trailer: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Amazon MX Player (@mxplayer) In a press note shared by Amazon MX Player, Jackie, who plays Qadir Khan in the series, said, "The world of Chidiya Udd is full of twists and turns. It's a place where survival is the ultimate game, and every character is fighting their own battle. Portraying Qadir has been a challenging yet rewarding experience, and the audience will love it." Bhoomika Meena, who portrays Seher, added, "Portraying Seher has been an incredible journey. She is a fighter, someone who refuses to succumb to the harshness around her. The challenges she faces in this unforgiving world are daunting, but her strength and determination shine through. Chidiya Udd is a powerful story of survival, and I hope the audience finds themselves drawn to Seher's spirit and the choices she makes along the way." Fans can watch 'Chidiya Udd' for free on Amazon MX Player starting January 15. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
09 January,2025 07:20 AM IST | Mumbai | ANIActor Jackie Shroff, who will be next seen in the upcoming streaming title ‘Chidiya Udd’, has called himself an open book, and shared that he likes to completely surrender to the director’s vision. Throughout his filmography, the actor has never shied away from exploring diverse roles and adding richness to his craft. Whether playing the lead young man, a friend, an angry young man, or a grey role, Jackie Shroff has established himself as a versatile powerhouse performer. Recently, the actor, who was recently seen in the theatrical release 'Baby John', spoke about exploring various characters, and how he lets the filmmakers create an image surrounding his characters. Talking about the same, Jackie Shroff shared, "I'm an open book, and I keep on working. I'm an actor; I keep on exploring new characters, be it in 'Baby John' or any other film. I leave myself to the director's vision and the ability of the cameraman and technicians”. Jackie Shroff, known for his spontaneity and vibrant personality, left the audiences impressed with his portrayal of grey characters in 'Singham Again' and 'Baby John'. The actor not only pulled off the roles of menacing villains with utmost ease but also delivered characters to remember. Meanwhile, the actor is gearing up to tickle the funny bones with his upcoming comic caper 'Housefull 5'. The actor will be seen in a comic role alongside Akshay Kumar, Nana Patekar, Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Riteish Deshmukh, and others. The excitement and anticipation surrounding the film is palpable, with the audiences eagerly waiting to witness Jackie Shroff portray another stellar role. 'Housefull 5' is set to arrive in theatres on June 6. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
08 January,2025 09:05 AM IST | Mumbai | IANSActor Rahul Dev finds it “interesting” to start 2025 on a high note with the release of his intense thriller web-series “Griha Laxmi.” Rahul said: "I had a great experience working on this project and it's interesting to start 2025 on a high with this web series release.” “The date is 16th January for 'Griha Laxmi' on EPIC ON. Great cast and great team and I had a blast of an experience working in this one. I hope the audience enjoys watching me in this avatar and continue to shower me with love." Born in New Delhi, Rahul Dev and his actor brother Mukul Dev are sons of Hari Dev who was an Assistant Commissioner of Police. The 56-year-old actor made his acting debut in 2000 with “Champion” starring Sunny Deol and Manisha Koirala. In the film, Rahul played an antagonist. He also appeared as a villain in the Punjabi movie Dharti in 2011. He then moved into Malayalam cinema, playing the role of an assassin Sheik Imran in Amal Neerad's Sagar Alias Jacky Reloaded. Four years later, he made a comeback with Sringaravelan. He made his debut in television in 2013 with Devon Ke Dev...Mahadev, where he played the role of the demon Arunasur. He Participated in Bigg Boss 10). He also appeared in Bhojpuri film Dulhan Chahi Pakistan Se 2 in 2018. Rahul was first married to Rina, who died of cancer in 2009. They were married for almost 11 years and have a son named Sidhart. He is in a relationship with model and actress Mugdha Godse, who is known for her work in Hindi films such as Priyanka Chopra-starrer “Fashion”, “All The Best: Fun Begins”, “Jail”, “Help” and “Heroine” featuring Kareena Kapoor Khan. She was one of the judges in a Marathi reality show, Marathi Paul Padte Pudhe. She also acted in Tamil film Thani Oruvan. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
08 January,2025 08:42 AM IST | Mumbai | IANSADVERTISEMENT
