EXCLUSIVE: Dhurandhar completes its glorious run in IMAX as Avatar: Fire And Ash takes over; single screens, Gaiety-Galaxy SKIP Hollywood biggie; continue with Ranveer Singh-starrer

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Dhurandhar, which is all set to become the biggest hit of the year, enters the third week of its release today. The film overperformed in its second week and is now all set for another huge week from today. The Ranveer Singh-starrer also had a release in the IMAX version. However, its IMAX run ended yesterday, on December 18.

This is because Avatar: Fire And Ash has now taken over all the IMAX screens across India and also the world. Directed by James Cameron, the fantasy drama is known for its spellbinding visuals. Hence, it makes for an ideal watch in IMAX theatres. It's no wonder that its shows in the IMAX cinemas got filled first.

Nevertheless, Dhurandhar had a glorious run in the IMAX version. The film also had a big screen appeal which enticed people to check it out in IMAX. Interestingly, the film didn’t get a release in IMAX on the day of its release due to late delivery of prints. But once the issue settled, the film managed to score big time in the wide-screen cinemas.

Avatar vs Dhurandhar update

Yesterday, Bollywood Hungama had reported that the advance booking in several one-screen and two-screen cinemas had not begun for shows from December 19 due to show-sharing issues between Avatar: Fire And Ash and Dhurandhar.

As per a trade source, “Disney, the studio releasing Avatar: Fire And Ash, has asked single-screen theatres that they want all shows for their film. In two-screen cinemas, they have asked for 5 or 6 shows. However, exhibitors are not comfortable with this directive as Dhurandhar is running very successfully. They are confident that even in its third week, the Ranveer Singh-starrer will find a huge audience, as evident by the steady footfalls the film has generated in the weekdays.”

The matter was expected to be resolved. Sadly, that hasn’t happened. The trade source informed Bollywood Hungama, “Disney was adamant about getting all shows for Avatar: Fire And Ash while the single screens requested for show sharing. With no other option, single-screen cinemas had to give up on the plan to play Avatar: Fire And Ash. Late Thursday night, they opened the advance booking and have decided to continue playing Dhurandhar with all shows until December 24.”

The only exception is PVR Le Reve, Bandra, formerly known as Globus Cinema. It’ll play Avatar: Fire And Ash with two shows a day, at 8:00 am and 7:20 pm, while Dhurandhar will be played by 11:40 am, 3:30 pm and 11:00 pm. In other words, PVR Le Reve is one of the few single screens in the whole of India that will play the James Cameron directorial.

On the other hand, all the two-screen cinemas of Mumbai have allotted 3 shows to Avatar: Fire And Ash and the remaining 6 shows to Dhurandhar.

Finally, those hoping to watch Avatar: Fire And Ash at Mumbai’s iconic G7 complex, popularly known as Gaiety-Galaxy, might be disappointed. Until December 18, bookings for Galaxy and Gemini were not opened, fuelling hope that the James Cameron directorial would find a slot in one of the two screens. However, late Thursday night, bookings for all screens were opened, and there was no listing for Avatar: Fire And Ash. Dhurandhar will continue to play in Gaiety and Galaxy, the complex’s biggest screens, while Gemini will play four shows of Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2.

Also Read: Adivi Sesh BREAKS silence on Dacoit’s CLASH with Dhurandhar 2 on March 19, 2026: “I wish the sequel is world’s BIGGEST hit; jin logon ko Dhurandhar 2 ka ticket na mile, woh Dacoit dekhne aa jaaye!”

EXCLUSIVE: Dhurandhar completes its glorious run in IMAX as Avatar: Fire And Ash takes over; single screens, Gaiety-Galaxy SKIP Hollywood biggie; continue with Ranveer Singh-starrer

https://ift.tt/MkHDcm4

Dhurandhar, which is all set to become the biggest hit of the year, enters the third week of its release today. The film overperformed in its second week and is now all set for another huge week from today. The Ranveer Singh-starrer also had a release in the IMAX version. However, its IMAX run ended yesterday, on December 18.

This is because Avatar: Fire And Ash has now taken over all the IMAX screens across India and also the world. Directed by James Cameron, the fantasy drama is known for its spellbinding visuals. Hence, it makes for an ideal watch in IMAX theatres. It's no wonder that its shows in the IMAX cinemas got filled first.

Nevertheless, Dhurandhar had a glorious run in the IMAX version. The film also had a big screen appeal which enticed people to check it out in IMAX. Interestingly, the film didn’t get a release in IMAX on the day of its release due to late delivery of prints. But once the issue settled, the film managed to score big time in the wide-screen cinemas.

Avatar vs Dhurandhar update

Yesterday, Bollywood Hungama had reported that the advance booking in several one-screen and two-screen cinemas had not begun for shows from December 19 due to show-sharing issues between Avatar: Fire And Ash and Dhurandhar.

As per a trade source, “Disney, the studio releasing Avatar: Fire And Ash, has asked single-screen theatres that they want all shows for their film. In two-screen cinemas, they have asked for 5 or 6 shows. However, exhibitors are not comfortable with this directive as Dhurandhar is running very successfully. They are confident that even in its third week, the Ranveer Singh-starrer will find a huge audience, as evident by the steady footfalls the film has generated in the weekdays.”

The matter was expected to be resolved. Sadly, that hasn’t happened. The trade source informed Bollywood Hungama, “Disney was adamant about getting all shows for Avatar: Fire And Ash while the single screens requested for show sharing. With no other option, single-screen cinemas had to give up on the plan to play Avatar: Fire And Ash. Late Thursday night, they opened the advance booking and have decided to continue playing Dhurandhar with all shows until December 24.”

The only exception is PVR Le Reve, Bandra, formerly known as Globus Cinema. It’ll play Avatar: Fire And Ash with two shows a day, at 8:00 am and 7:20 pm, while Dhurandhar will be played by 11:40 am, 3:30 pm and 11:00 pm. In other words, PVR Le Reve is one of the few single screens in the whole of India that will play the James Cameron directorial.

On the other hand, all the two-screen cinemas of Mumbai have allotted 3 shows to Avatar: Fire And Ash and the remaining 6 shows to Dhurandhar.

Finally, those hoping to watch Avatar: Fire And Ash at Mumbai’s iconic G7 complex, popularly known as Gaiety-Galaxy, might be disappointed. Until December 18, bookings for Galaxy and Gemini were not opened, fuelling hope that the James Cameron directorial would find a slot in one of the two screens. However, late Thursday night, bookings for all screens were opened, and there was no listing for Avatar: Fire And Ash. Dhurandhar will continue to play in Gaiety and Galaxy, the complex’s biggest screens, while Gemini will play four shows of Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2.

Also Read: Adivi Sesh BREAKS silence on Dacoit’s CLASH with Dhurandhar 2 on March 19, 2026: “I wish the sequel is world’s BIGGEST hit; jin logon ko Dhurandhar 2 ka ticket na mile, woh Dacoit dekhne aa jaaye!”

Sandeep Reddy Vanga cancels New Year break to wrap Prabhas’ Spirit early: Report

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Filmmaker Sandeep Reddy Vanga has shelved his New Year’s break plans in order to push ahead with filming on his highly anticipated cop action drama Spirit, starring Prabhas, Triptii Dimri and Vivek Oberoi. The decision was taken to fast-track production so the project can meet its planned mid-2027 release timeframe, according to a report by Mid-Day.

Originally, Spirit was scheduled to shoot its first schedule through December and then pause for a New Year break. However, Vanga and his team decided to continue filming through the New Year’s week, with production now expected to run until at least the first week of January before a short pause. The report quoted a source close to the film revealing that the director called off holiday plans in a bid to wrap up the shoot ahead of schedule.

The movie marks Vanga’s first collaboration with both Prabhas and Vivek Oberoi. Insiders say the director is planning distinctive looks for the stars — a move reminiscent of how Vanga’s previous film Animal presented Bobby Deol in an unexpected avatar — indicating that Spirit will continue the filmmaker’s signature visual and narrative style.

Spirit began shooting on November 27 in Hyderabad, and the extended schedule means the cast and crew are now working through late December and into January to keep the production on track.

As it stands, Spirit is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched Indian films of 2027, powered by its high-profile star cast and the creative vision of one of Bollywood’s most discussed directors.

Also Read: 2 Years of Animal EXCLUSIVE: Khushaal Pawaar shares FASCINATING secret behind casting process: “Sandeep Reddy Vanga DIDN’T provide us with a script; a FIRST-ever such experience for me…you CANNOT manipulate him”

Sara Ali Khan becomes new face of Swiss watch brand Longines

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Indian film star Sara Ali Khan has been officially announced as the latest Friend of the Brand for iconic Swiss watchmaker Longines, marking a significant collaboration between one of Bollywood’s most admired young actresses and a heritage luxury timepiece house. The announcement was shared widely across media today following a press release and Sara’s own social media post, where she expressed her excitement over the partnership.

Sara took to Instagram to share the news with her followers, writing, “I’m delighted to share that I’ve joined the Swiss watch brand LONGINES as a Friend of the Brand. Its timeless elegance, rich heritage and authenticity have long inspired me and I cannot wait to show you what’s ahead! #Longines #ElegancelsAnAttitude #LonginesPrimaluna.” This message reflects her personal admiration for the brand’s legacy and values, setting the tone for what both parties hope will be a creative and inspiring collaboration.

 

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Longines, founded in Saint-Imier, Switzerland in 1832, is known for its graceful designs, precision engineering, and long history of sport timing and aviation partnerships. Its winged hourglass logo is recognised in more than 150 countries around the world. The brand’s association with India dates back to 1878, when it first sold watches in the country, a historical connection that the company says this new collaboration will further strengthen.

In the official statement, Longines praised Sara’s radiant personality, effortless charm and refined sense of style, noting that she perfectly embodies the spirit of timeless elegance which is a hallmark of the brand’s identity. Her versatility and strong public presence in cinema have made her an influential figure among modern audiences, aligning with Longines’ efforts to celebrate individuals who represent elegance not just through appearance, but through authenticity, confidence, and attitude.

Sara Ali Khan, who made her film debut in 2018 with the hit Kedarnath and has since starred in successful films like Simmba, Atrangi Re, and Zara Hatke Zara Bachke, brings both contemporary appeal and cultural relevance to the Longines family. A graduate of Columbia University with a degree in history and political science, she is widely respected for her intellect as well as her on-screen presence qualities that the brand sees as reflective of its values of precision and heritage.

The collaboration is expected to spotlight Longines’ PrimaLuna collection, known for its elegant design and feminine sophistication an aesthetic that resonates with Sara’s personal style and public image, making this partnership a blend of tradition and modernity that appeals to watch enthusiasts and fashion followers alike.

This announcement adds to Sara Ali Khan’s growing list of high-profile partnerships and reinforces Longines’ commitment to working with influential cultural figures who embody its core principles of grace, authenticity, and timeless elegance.

Also Read : Sara Ali Khan shares heartfelt note for Sushant Singh Rajput on 7 years of Kedarnath: “Thank you for reminding me to be curious”

EXCLUSIVE: Teaser of Ranbir Kapoor-starrer Ramayana and controversial AI film Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal attached with Avatar: Fire And Ash

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Less than 24 hours are left for the release of Avatar: Fire And Ash and the excitement is building up for it thanks to its big-screen appeal, grandeur and popularity of the franchise. Interestingly, viewers will be treated with two tantalizing assets when they venture out to watch the James Cameron directorial in cinemas from December 19.

Bollywood Hungama has learned that the introduction teaser of Ramayana has been attached to Avatar: Fire And Ash. It was launched on July 3 and has been loved for its ensemble cast and stunning VFX.

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari of Dangal (2016) and Chhichhore (2019) fame, Ramayana stars Ranbir Kapoor as Rama, KGF star Yash as Ravana, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Ravie Dubey as Lakshman and Sunny Deol as Hanuman. It is produced by Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios and 8-time Oscar-winning VFX studio DNEG in association with Yash’s Monster Mind Creations, written by Shridhar Raghavan and has music by the greats, A R Rahman and Hans Zimmer. The first part releases in cinemas on Diwali 2026, while part 2 will arrive on Diwali 2027.

The other teaser attached to the Hollywood flick is that of Hanuman – The Eternal. This video isn’t out yet on digital and hence, viewers will see a glimpse of the film for the first time on the big screen. It is one of India’s first theatrical films made using AI and arrests attention thanks to its visual appeal, scale and depiction of Lord Hanuman. It is directed by Rajesh Mapuskar of Ferrari Ki Sawaari (2012) and Rudra: The Edge Of Darkness (2022) fame, produced by Vikram Malhotra’s Abundantia Entertainment and Collective Media Network’s Historyverse. As per reports, it is slated for a theatrical release on Hanuman Jayanti, that is, April 2 next year.

However, Hanuman – The Eternal has been in the news after Anurag Kashyap slammed the announcement news and also one of the film's producers, Vijay Subramaniam, for backing an AI-generated film while heading an artists' agency. Shockingly, Anurag even mentioned in the post, “This right here is the future for the spineless and cowardly so-called artists in the Hindi Film industry. Well done Vijay Subramaniam. Shame is not enough on you. You should be in the gutter.”

Also Read: Ramayana: Ranbir Kapoor starrer to mark a historic collab with Avatar: Fire and Ash as it premieres in theatres

SCOOP: Dhurandhar vs Avatar: Fire And Ash showdown – Single-screens and two-screen cinemas yet to start bookings due to reservations over ‘all shows’ demand

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The biggest Hollywood film of the year, Avatar: Fire And Ash, is all set to release tomorrow, that is, Friday, December 19. While advance booking commenced on December 5, several cinemas, especially one-screen and two-screen cinemas, have yet to begin advance booking. Bollywood Hungama spoke to trade and exhibition sources to understand the reason behind it.

A trade source told Bollywood Hungama, “Disney, the studio releasing Avatar: Fire And Ash, has asked single-screen theatres that they want all shows for their film. In two-screen cinemas, they have asked for 5 or 6 shows. However, exhibitors are not comfortable with this directive as Dhurandhar is running very successfully. They are confident that even in its third week, the Ranveer Singh-starrer will find a huge audience, as evident by the steady footfalls the film has generated in the weekdays.”

The source continued, “The exhibitors have requested that they’d like to divide shows equally between the two films. After all, they realize that Avatar: Fire And Ash will also be a crowd puller. However, so is Dhurandhar. But Disney hasn’t accepted this idea. Negotiations are going on and a middle ground is expected to be reached today.”

As for 8:30 am on December 18, single-screen theatres in Mumbai like Gold Cinema Santacruz, Chitra Dadar, Roxy Opera House, Maratha Mandir, Kasturba Malad, Citylight Mahim, Inox Nakshatra Dadar, MovieTime Star City, New Excelsion, MovieTime Dahisar, Gold Cinema Sona Borivali, MovieMax Andheri East, MovieTime Suburbia, PVR Le Reve etc. are yet to start bookings for tomorrow.

The same issue can be seen in two-screen plexes like Sun City Vile Parle, Mukta A2 Cinemas Lalbaug, Topiwala Goregaon, PVR Milap Kandivali, Movietime Malad etc.

Shockingly, ticket sales for Avatar: Fire And Ash as well as Dhurandhar, for December 19 onwards are yet to commence in a full-fledged manner in even certain three-screen properties like Sterling, MovieMax Mira Road, MovieMax Sion etc. as well as in four-screen properties like Miraj R Mall Mulund, Inox Raghuleela Kandivali, PVR Odeon Ghatkopar, Inox Korum Mall Thane, MovieMax SM5 Kalyan, MovieMax Wonder Mall Thane, etc.

At Mumbai’s iconic G7 complex, popularly known as Gaiety-Galaxy, advance bookings have opened in four cinemas, but Galaxy and Gemini are yet to begin. Dhurandhar will continue at Gaiety with three shows from December 19. Until December 18, it was being screened in both Gaiety and Galaxy. It now remains to be seen whether Avatar: Fire And Ash will be accommodated at Galaxy or Gemini, or both, and whether Dhurandhar also gets additional shows in the other two cinemas at G7.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Unlike Avatar: The Way Of Water, CBFC passes Avatar: Fire And Ash with ZERO cuts

Homebound makes Oscars 2026 shortlist in Best International Feature Film category

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Homebound, the critically acclaimed Hindi drama directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, has been officially selected as India’s entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards and has now been shortlisted by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences as one of the contenders moving forward in the awards process.

The film starring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor was chosen by the Film Federation of India from a competitive list of 24 films submitted this year, cementing its place as the nation’s representative on cinema’s biggest global stage.

In the shortlist announced this week, Homebound is among only 15 international films advancing toward final nominations for the Best International Feature Film Award, marking a significant achievement for Indian cinema ahead of the Oscars scheduled in March 2026.

Homebound tells the poignant journey of two childhood friends striving to become police officers to earn dignity and respect in a system shaped by caste and socioeconomic divides.

Producer Karan Johar reacted emotionally to the film’s Oscars shortlist announcement, taking to social media to share his pride. He wrote, “I am not sure I can articulate how proud, elated and over the moon I am with the journey of #HOMEBOUND… all of us @dharmamovies are privileged to have this proud and important film in our filmography … thank you @neeraj.ghaywan for making so many dreams of ours come true… from Cannes to being on the Oscar shortlist this has been such an overwhelming journey! Love to the entire cast and crew and teams of this special special film!!!!!!!!! Upwards and onwards…….. #HOMEBOUND streaming now on @netflix_in.”

 

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The film has already earned international recognition after its premiere in the Un Certain Regard section at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, where it received a nine‑minute standing ovation from audiences. It also screened at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), where it won the International People’s Choice Award as second runner‑up.

Industry insiders and audiences have celebrated Homebound’s selection, seeing it as a testament to the depth of India’s cinematic storytelling. Key cast and crew members expressed excitement as the film’s Oscar campaign progresses, with many hoping it will secure a nomination when the final list is announced early next year.

Also Read : Janhvi Kapoor, Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa react to Shah Rukh Khan showering love on Homebound