Humour and high stakes, featuring Heads of State's cast Priyanka Chopra Jonas and John Cena
The actor — joined by her co-star John Cena — speaks to us in London about shooting the action comedy, playing a strong female character in a male-dominated genre, and the OTT vs theatre debate. Excerpts:
What was it about the film's script that got you excited? Did it take some deliberation or was it an instant 'yes'?
Priyanka: I loved Ilya's films Hardcore Henry (2015) and Nobody (2021), so it was a no-brainer for me. I read [the script] and it was laugh-out-loud funny. Plus, my character was telling off these big, powerful men, so I had a lot of reasons to do it (laughs). We got to shoot in London and the South of France; filming with John and Idris (Elba, actor) was a lot of fun.
John: It was an easy yes. Sometimes, when making decisions, we ask ourselves, 'What can go wrong?' With [this film], I asked myself, 'What's gonna go right?' I'm glad I did, because the enthusiasm was shared by everybody in the movie, both in the front of and behind the camera. That really made for a heck of a movie.
There's been ongoing chatter about the OTT space versus theatrical releases in India. Since your film dropped on Prime Video on Wednesday, do you think people will stop going to theatres elsewhere in the world, too?
Priyanka: I just think that they are two different mediums of entertainment. I do think that streaming has brought a diversity of talents in front of and behind the camera, especially in the Indian film industry. I think it's an evolving thing; but the communal experience and collective joy of watching something in theatres is never going to go away.
John, you're loved as both a wrestler and an actor, and have a huge fan following in India. Are there any plans to work in Indian movies in the future?
John: I just haven't got that offer yet. I don't necessarily control my own destiny; the best I can do is react to opportunities that are put my way. What I can tell you matter-of-factly is, I've been aware of the passion for WWE in India for over 20 years now. I would not be where I'm at today without the investment and the passion of the audience in India. I'm very grateful for that.
Why should people watch Heads Of State?
Priyanka: It's a really fun movie and my favourite genre — it makes you laugh, hold onto your seat, and gets you excited. There's fun jokes, big explosions and just a great experience. I think it's one of those movies which you watch with your family and friends for the collective experience.
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an hour ago
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Live Events The South Indian fine-dining destination, helmed by chef Vijay Kumar (formerly of California's Michelin-starred Rasa) and backed by restaurateurs Roni Mazumdar and Chintan Pandya of Unapologetic Foods, has emerged as an unmistakable disruptor in fine dining. Alongside Semma , several other Indian restaurants made it to the Times' Top 100, including Dhamaka, known for its fiery, rustic menu from the Indian hinterlands; Masalawala & Sons, a nostalgic tribute to Bengali home cooking; Bungalow, a newer entrant from celebrity chef Vikas Khanna blending artful plating with deep-rooted Punjabi flavours; and Dera, a Jackson Heights staple offering a rich blend of Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi dishes. Not Pandering to Western Palates Unapologetic Foods is at the heart of this spice-splashed revolution. Pandya has also won the much sought-after James Beard prize for chefs. 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