News & Gossip
Mammootty’s Kaathal The Core is the tender heartache that our cinema needs today, Contrasting portrayal of hyper masculine angst in current times
Kaathal: the core feature of Mammootty and Jyothika is a palate refresher in the current state of the cinema that our country is watching. In this film of Jeo Baby ‘The Filmmaker’, no one gets angry; they are lonely, ashamed, trapped, and even annoyed but never angry. Anger as an emotion that has been dominating Blockbusters of last year. In Mammootty’s newly released Malayalam drama, people look out for each other, and the family stays together, even when the patriarch struggles to come to light.
The enormously heart-touching movie is currently being streamed on Prime Video. The film calls for sensitivity as it portrays the complications of coming out. The movie proceeds in a very optimistic manner as it follows a marriage that is falling apart. Still, it remains hopeful that no matter what a heart can continue to love even when it is nursing a broken heart. Featuring possibly one of the most effective performances of last year, Mammootty plays Mathew Devassy as a man who must rescue himself from the trap that his loved ones and community set up for him. Questioning us- How do you break free, without breaking apart?
There is a lot that has been written about Kaathal’s extraordinary portrayal of same-sex love and its ruining impact on people who never find acceptance, but beyond its evident chief theme, the film is a glorious palate refresher in the current state of the cinema our country is watching. All the top-grossing films of 2023 were action films that, in some ways, were fueled by a precise narrative dread.
A dissatisfied soldier fights against his own country, a duo of father and son unites to take revenge and another goes to the neighboring country to get his son back, while a son in another film destroys himself–and the world around him–to win the love of his father. The films are all different in their tone, scale, and politics, powered through with anger and violence. But Kaathal exceptionally examines how people, even when pushed to the extreme ends, might continue to dream of a gentler and more accepting world. Unlike Blockbusters of the country in the current times, the movie is a unique blend of love and hope. They don’t slash and slay, they just hug, cry, and whisper a sorry whenever they are required to.
In one segment, when Mammootty goes to see his daughter in her school, covering up the truth of his identity that has become the talk of the village, the daughter asks him to stop. “I am not mad at you,” she says. “I didn’t speak to you not because I was angry, but because I was sad.” In another segment, after his life and choices are almost on the verge of coming out in a court full of people, Mammootty encounters a volunteer of an LGBTQIA association. He is tensed, processing the fact that he openly denied being a homosexual, when the volunteer recommends that they offer him counseling and mental health support considering coming out isn’t easy. In that brief moment, it feels Kaathal’s Mathew would lose his temper, and shoot back at the unsolicited advice.
But he does the most unimaginable thing, he opens the door of his car and sits back, broken and contemplating his life rolling up the windows. In this film, the violence–isn’t in blood and slaughter, but the crushing realisation that the one who is suffering is almost always lonely. Again, the question is should it be?
Kaathal is a masterclass in romance and heartbreak, as it almost entirely plays out through the eyes of its sufferers. It frames scene after scene of stolen glances between former lovers, the scrutiny of guilt from a community, and the scanning of the curious. The lovers here deal with gigantic heartaches. Sometimes, they try to drown the sorrow at a bar with a friend who no longer finds it comfortable to be around them, or in silence, as the guilt is best kept in check. Surprisingly they don’t burn the world down in the name of love, they instead attempt to knit it together with the love that was promised but never given.
Jeo Baby’s Kaathal is a milestone and there was no better time for its release than now. It curtails the rhetoric and dread and gently tries to bend our perspectives in the direction of love at times of violence. Contrasting the Blockbusters it isn’t asking lovers to lick the shoe instead, it is calling for tenderly and gently healing the wounds.
News & Gossip
Kya Koi Bacha Payega Pakistan Ki Entertainment Industry Ko? With rising ticket prices and a shortage of quality content, Lollywood is struggling to stay afloat
Mumbai: Pakistan’s film industry, famously known as Lollywood, has been hit hard since it banned the release of Indian content in the country. The Indian films and other content are not even allowed to be aired on television.
Before the 2019 ban, selected Hindi films were released in Pakistan and performed well at the box office. Bajrangi Bhaijaan earned around ₹34 crore, while Sanju also saw notable success. These numbers reflect the strong demand for Indian content among Pakistani audiences.
Vivek Agnihotri, director of Kashmir Files, in an exclusive chat with The Right Angle team, said, “……… Toh jab se hindi filmo ko waha (Pakistan) par band kar diya gaya, waha ke theaters ki sankhiya bhi kum ho gayi hai. Pakistan ka domestic cinema puri tarah se tabha ho gaya hai. Jo kuch banta bhi hai yo sab Dubai based hai Pakistan based usme kuch nahi hai.” He also stressed the fact that Pakistan has no sources of entertainment left.*
In Pakistan, movie ticket prices range between ₹600 to ₹2,000 per person, while the average monthly salary is around ₹15,000. Given this, it’s unrealistic to expect the general public to afford such high entertainment costs regularly, as discussed by Sonal Kalra on her show, The Right Angle, produced by Gautam Thakker Films.
The stars don’t seem to be aligning for Fawad Khan, as the release of his Bollywood comeback film Abir Gulaal has been stalled following the Pahalgam terrorist attacks.
All in all, with rising costs and restricted content, entertainment in Pakistan is becoming harder to access and harder to sustain. In short, Entertainment is a luxury in Pakistan.
YouTube has become a major platform for entertainment and content creation in India. Many individuals have used their creativity and talent to build successful YouTube channels, reaching millions of viewers and establishing themselves as stars.
Let’s delve into the journeys of some of the notable YouTube personalities in India:-
1. CarryMinati
Ajey Nagar started his YouTube career at the age of 10, this YouTuber has successfully created a separate world for himself on the platform with over 40 million subscribers. Ajey Nagar is popularly called CarryMinati, he is a favourite of every person who follows gaming and YouTube. From his funny scripts to diss videos, he has created a niche for himself in the social world. Being one of the most subscribed YouTubers in India, CarryMinati also enjoys a luxurious lifestyle. With over 38.3 million subscribers. CarryMinati’s entertaining content and charismatic personality have earned him a strong fan following and recognition in the YouTube community.
- Net Worth – $5 Million (41 crore IND)
- Subscriber – 39.2 Million
- Monthly Income – 25 Lakhs
2. Total Gaming
Total Gaming is run by Ajay, popularly known as Ajju Bhai, who is one of the top gaming YouTubers in India. With over 34.7 million subscribers, Total Gaming focuses on mobile gaming, games like Garena Free Fire and PUBG. Total Gaming posts gameplay videos, tips, and tricks, as well as entertaining commentary. He has amassed a loyal fan base with his engaging content and interactive live streams. Total Gaming has become a go-to channel for gaming enthusiasts in India, making Ajay a top YouTuber.
- Net Worth – $2 Million (15 Crore)
- Subscriber – 35.4 M
- Monthly Income – 7 to 8 Lakhs
3. Techno Gamerz
Techno Gamerz, a YouTube channel run by Ujwal Chaurasia, is a prominent channel in the gaming community. With over 32.6 million subscribers, Techno Gamerz offers a wide range of content, including gameplay videos, gaming reviews, and tutorials. The channel covers various games but focuses on popular games like Minecraft, GTA V, and Red Dead Redemption 2. His gaming skills combined with entertaining commentary are the reason for such a great audience and keeping them hooked.
- Net Worth – $2 Million (15 Crore)
- Subscriber – 34.4 Million
- Monthly Income – 15+ Lakhs
4. Mr. Indian Hacker
Mr. Indian Hacker is a YouTube channel created by Dilraj Singh. With over 30.5 million subscribers, Mr. Indian Hacker creates exciting and educational content focused on life hacks, science experiments, and DIY projects. He has showcased his creativity and ingenuity through his videos, which include interesting experiments, tricks, and practical solutions to everyday problems. His channel has gained a fanbase due to its unique content and the ability to engage viewers with fascinating scientific demonstrations and practical knowledge. Mr. Indian Hacker has become a favourite destination for those seeking entertainment and learning through exciting experiments and innovative ideas.
- Net Worth – $2+ Million (16+ Crore)
- Subscriber – 31.7 Million
- Monthly Income – 15 to 20 Lakh
5. Round2hell
Round2hell is a well-known YouTube channel known for its entertaining and humorous videos. This channel is run by three friends, Zayan, Wasim, and Nazim. With subscribers of over 29.6 million, Round2hell offers a mix of comedy sketches, funny skits, and hilarious videos that resonate with viewers of all ages. The channel’s content stretches over relatable everyday situations and humorous interactions between the three friends, resulting in laughter and entertainment for their audience. Round2Hell has amassed a strong fanbase with their comedic timing, witty dialogues, and the chemistry between them. It continues to captivate viewers with its light-hearted and entertaining videos, making it one of the top YouTube channels in India.
- Net Worth – $4.9 Million (40 Crore)
- Subscriber – 30.7 Million
- Monthly Income – 10 to 20 Lakhs
6. Ashish Chanchlani
Ashish Chanchlani is an Indian YouTuber known for his comedic and entertaining content. His YouTube channel, “Ashish Chanchlani Vines,” has a huge subscriber count of over 29.5 million. Ashish’s videos primarily consist of funny sketches, hilarious reactions, and relatable comedy content that resonates with a wide audience. He often plays multiple characters in his videos, with the help of his versatility and comedic timing. With his unique style of humour, Ashish has become a favourite among viewers, which has earned him a lot of followers.
- Net Worth -$5 Million (40 Crore)
- Subscriber – 29.8 Million
- Monthly Income -25+Lakhs
7. Sandeep Maheshwari
Sandeep Maheshwari is an Indian YouTuber and motivational speaker. He has immense popularity on his YouTube channel, “Sandeep Maheshwari,” with a subscriber count of over 27.4 million, Sandeep’s channel shares inspirational and motivational content, aiming to empower individuals and help them realise their full potential. His videos stretch over a wide range of topics, including career-building, personal development, public speaking, and confidence-building. Sandeep is a role model to many, he is an inspiration to people who want to chase their dreams and live a fulfilling life.
- Net Worth – $3.5 To $4 Million (30 Crore to 35 Crore)
- Subscriber -27.8 Million
- Monthly Income -30+ Lakhs
8. Amit Bhadana
Amit Bhadana is an Indian YouTuber and comedian who has gained significant popularity on his YouTube channel. With subscribers of over 24.4 million, Amit Bhadana is one of the top YouTubers in India. He is known for his humorous videos, Amit creates content about relationships, daily life experiences, and social issues. His videos often feature entertaining skits, roasts, and reactions that resonate with a wide audience. Amit’s content and engaging style of comedy have helped him build a strong fan base.
- Net Worth – $7 Million (53 Crore)
- Subscribers- 24.3 Million
- Monthly Income -25 to 30 Lakhs.
9. BB Ki Vines
BB Ki Vines is a well-known Indian YouTube channel created by Bhuvan Bam. With a subscriber count of over 26.1 million, BB Ki Vines has gained a lot of popularity, fame and recognition in the Indian YouTube community. The channel primarily produces comedy and entertainment videos, featuring humorous sketches and characters played by Bhuvan himself. Bhuvar’s unique style of storytelling and his ability to connect with the audience through relatable and funny content have helped him build a strong fan following. BB Ki Vines has become a household name in India, with some of its videos amassing billions of views.
- Net Worth – $15 Million (120 Crore)
- Subscribers- 26.3 Million
- Monthly Income – 20 to 25 Lakhs
10. Technical Guruji
Technical Guruji, run by Gaurav Chaudhary, is one of the best YouTube channels in India. With a subscriber count of over 22.9 million, Technical Guruji talks about gadgets unboxing and tech reviews. He has gained popularity for his videos that simplify complicated technical concepts and provide insights into the latest smartphones, laptops, and other tech products. His channel has comprehensive reviews, and comparisons, and is related to the world of technology Gaurav’s unique way of communicating complex information in an easy manner has attracted a large following of tech enthusiasts and individuals seeking information about the latest gadgets.
- Net Worth – $45 Million (356 Crore)
- Subscriber- 23 Million
- Monthly Income – 45 to 50 Lakhs
YouTube is a powerhouse of diverse content and millions of active users. From music videos to comedy sketches vlogs to gaming channels, YouTube has something for everyone. Many people have gained massive followings and achieved incredible success.
Bollywood horror movies encompass a wide spectrum of themes, from supernatural to psychological thrillers. Here are 10 best Indian horror movies that have been well-received by audiences:
1. Stree
Stree is a horror comedy that combines humour and scares in a story about a vengeful spirit. The film is set in the town of Chanderi where men are scared of an evil spirit named “Stree”.
2. Pari
Pari is based on the themes of fantasy and mystery. The movie revolves around Arnab who tries to help Rukhshana who is found under mysterious circumstances. Pari is an unpredictable horror film that gives you eerie chills.
3. 9
Image credit: Prithviraj Productions
9 is a sci-fi horror film that revolves around a father and a son. In this movie, the universe conspires to snatch away the son from the father and he tries his best to protect him from the universe and its evil forces.
4. 1920
1920 is a Supernatural horror film that centres events around a couple who live in a haunted house in 1920. This movie is a psychological thriller.
5. The House Next Door
The House Next Door is a thriller that revolves around a neurosurgeon and his wife. The couple moves into a new place and realise that the house next door is haunted. It is a gripping story with a captivating storyline that will keep you at the edge of your chair throughout the movie.
6. Kothanodi
Kotha nodi features 4 folktales of Assam that are rethought and reimprovised. The film explores socially relevant themes yet it never loses its character and entertains us throughout the runtime.
7. Mahal
Image credit: Bombay Talkies studio
Mahal is a gothic mystery that revolves around seven strangers and fights for will. It is considered to be one of the first Bollywood horror films.
8. Bhoot
Bhoot is a mysterious thriller that revolves around a shipping officer who investigates a mysterious case where a ship washes ashore. This psychological horror film explores themes of grief and loss.
9. Tumbbad
Tumbbad is a horror mythological drama that revolves around the mythological story of a goddess who created the whole universe.
10. Aamis
Aamis is a layered and quietly horrifying film that revolves around two chaste lovers who bowed down to social taboos and repressed their emotions and feelings.
The darkness, the thrill and the mystery of Indian cinema are waiting to be explored. Bollywood horror films offer a thrilling experience, from vengeful spirits to ancient curses, exploring chilling stories rooted in Indian cinema.