Latest news with #Jackie
Metro
3 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Metro
'Triumphant' biopic with Hollywood A-lister finally arriving on Netflix in days
A sweeping biopic about a musical diva's final days starring a Hollywood A-lister is finally arriving on Netflix. The movie premiered at Venice Film Festival last year to acclaim and talk of Academy Awards before eventually flying under the radar somewhat upon release. But now viewers can judge for themselves if this was fair or not as Maria, with Angelina Jolie as opera sensation Maria Callas, makes its way to the streaming platform as a bit of a hidden gem. While it was snapped up by Netflix in the US from the start, in the UK Maria was distributed by StudioCanal as part of a wider distribution deal for the film across Europe. It was released in US cinemas in late November 2024 before hitting Netflix there on December 11, while UK fans had to wait until January 10 to see it on the big screen – and until now for it to land on Netflix. Wake up to find news on your TV shows in your inbox every morning with Metro's TV Newsletter. Sign up to our newsletter and then select your show in the link we'll send you so we can get TV news tailored to you. But now it has made its way, as of August 8, to Netflix in the UK. To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video Directed by Oscar nominee Pablo Larraín, the film recounts – per the synopsis – the 'tumultuous, beautiful and tragic story of the life of the world's greatest female opera singer, relived and reimagined during her final days in 1970s Paris'. Maria is rated fresh by both critics and fans alike on Rotten Tomatoes, with scores of 75% and 76% respectively, with reviews praising Jolie's 'virtuoso' performance and the film as a 'triumphant high note' for its director. The Guardian called for 'an encore', while Mashable's Siddhant Adlakha commented: 'Though the film doesn't come together as neatly or completely as [Jackie and Spencer], its most powerful moments stand head and shoulders above them, thanks to towering, transcendent work from Angelina Jolie in the leading role.' 'An exquisitely shot snapshot of an artist looking not just to sing again but to reclaim her voice,' wrote Robert Kojder for Flickering Myth. 'Character and actor blend so seamlessly, so ferociously, that you leave not just with heightened empathy for La Callas but Jolie as well,' observed Associated Press critic Lindsey Bahr. Much had been expected from Larraín's work, after he directed Natalie Portman and Kristen Stewart to best actress Oscar nominations in his previous films, 2016's Jackie and 2021's Spencer. Both films were also biopics of much admired and discussed women, with Portman playing former American First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, wife of JFK, and Stewart as Diana, Princess of Wales. Maria was seen as the final movie in the Chilean filmmaker's trilogy about iconic women, as well as Jolie's hotly anticipated return to the artistic big leagues of cinema. Her previous film, Marvel's Eternals, was much hyped but ultimately flopped at the box office, while her pbig films of the past decade were Maleficent and its sequel for Disney. So Maria gave the sense of Jolie, 50, being back to business and basics as an artist – and as an actress that netted an Academy Award over 20 years ago for her supporting turn in Girl, Interrupted. The Tomb Raider star became teary after the film debuted to rapturous applause and an eight-minute standing ovation at the prestigious film festival. As someone who was there when it screened in Venice, there was a real sense it would be an awards season player – for Jolie's performance and the sumptuous design at least. While not everyone was onboard with Peaky Blinders scribe Steven Knight's script, Maria dives deep into the psychological torture the legendary performer is seen putting herself through as she mourns the loss of her once-in-a-generation voice and wallows in a pill addiction so strong it's cleverly anthropomorphised in the form of actor Kodi Smitt-McPhee. Of course, that's a huge ask of any actor to replicate, even one who's a confident singer – which Jolie confirmed she very much is not, telling press she was 'terribly nervous' to sing and trained for more than half a year. Luckily, because the bar is not set to match Callas at her unrivalled best due to the storyline, Jolie is not aiming for can forgive a difference in tone and quality between Jolie's efforts and the original recordings of Callas herself. However, the musicality, the pitch and the technique is all there – as well as an innate talent that proves Jolie is up to the task. More Trending A major issue with Jolie as diva 'La Callas' could have been her being an actress and also one of the most famous women in the world – so instantly recognisable as yourself. Therefore it does take a minute to warm up to her as Callas but once she's won you over, Jolie delivers a masterclass in reminding you exactly why it is she's so famous. Maria is streaming on Netflix in the UK from August 8. Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. 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Time of India
9 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Suniel Shetty talks about working with Jackie Shroff in 'Hunter S2': 'Personally, it was tough for me...'
Mumbai: Actor called his 'Hunter S2' co-star a 'brilliant natural actor with a great voice, aura, and presence that's unmatched.' Shedding light on his experience working with Jackie, Suniel said, "So many people have always hero-worshipped Jaggu Dada, and I've admired him for years too. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Personally, it was tough for me to go head-to-head with him in action scenes. But I had to block out the personal rapport and focus on our characters in the show." Admiring the 'Hero' actor's charismatic persona, he added, "Dada is a brilliant natural actor, with a great voice, aura, and presence that's unmatched. It takes a lot to stand up to him, even if it's on screen. But I believe when you work with the best, you deliver your best." In the second season of the action entertainer, Vikram Sinha (played by Suniel), a suspended special investigations officer, is caught on a relentless mission to rescue his daughter from a shadowy arms dealer only known as the Salesman (played by Jackie). Recently, Suniel opened up about his conscious effort to bring extra depth to his character in 'Hunter 2.' During an exclusive interaction with IANS, Suniel said that everything about his character—body language, appearance, and emotions—has evolved. He shared, "I am very different in this season. The body language is different. The look is different. The emotions are different. Carefree and careless, Vikram Sinha was in the first. Here, it is more about family. And that is his only objective. There is no disturbance, but no other distraction in his life. He wants his daughter back, and at any cost. He will go to any lengths to get that happening. So, I think that itself is a beautiful moment. " 'Tu Meri...' Set Diaries: Kartik Aaryan & Jackie Shroff Warm Moment With Subhash Ghai With Suniel and Jackie in the lead, 'Hunter Season 2' boasts an ensemble cast with , Barkha Bisht, , , and in prominent roles, along with others.
The Herald Scotland
15 hours ago
- Entertainment
- The Herald Scotland
Life on the road with Zippos Circus for family achieving their dreams
But for two stars of Zippo's Circus and their young daughter, it is everything they could ask for. It is a world of adrenaline, tight-knit community and a unique family life that has been forged through very different paths into the heart of the show. Neither of them came from a circus family, one is from Kent in England and the other is from Brazil and they have brought their young daughter up while travelling with Zippo's around the UK over the last six years. Jackie Louise has been on the road with Zippo's for 18 years now, and it all started with a simple internet search. Jackie performing her act (Image: Gordon Terris/The Herald) She had completed a degree in theatre studies and was captivated by a television show featuring celebrities attempting circus acts. "I thought, that looks really cool. I want to try and be that girl spinning in the air," she recalls. "So I literally googled circus schools." Her search led her to a six-month touring school run by Zippo's but she needed a bit of luck, which is probably a good thing in her line of work. She explained: "They were actually fully booked already that year, but they had someone drop out at the last minute, which is why they had a space. "If they hadn't had that space, I wouldn't have gone. And I think I would have not ever joined the circus." From that fortuitous opening, she honed her skills, eventually earning a contract and a career that has now spanned 18 years. Her partner's entry into the circus world was starkly different, rooted in a childhood in Brazil. Walter was 12-years old when the circus came to his town and he decided that was what he wanted to do. "Where I live is like a little bit poor life, a little bit danger," he shares. Seeking a better path, he approached the circus and asked for a job. Initially told he was too young, he was offered a chance to sell popcorn. That small opportunity was his gateway. He continued: "I started selling popcorn and grew up, then I start to practice the globe and trampoline, other acts as well. "We are seven kids, seven brothers and sisters, it's quite hard in that time," he reflects. "I think my mum said, 'maybe it's going to be a good idea because for helping him.'" The pair met while working for Zippos and have been joined at the hip ever since. Their acts, which can be seen in Glasgow's Queen's Park until Monday, August 4, include the Spanish web where Jackie spins high above the stage, and a daring crossbow act they perform together. The adrenaline rush from it might be exciting, but is there any fear? Read More Jackie confessed: "The crossbow was scary when we were first started to practice because it's a new act for us this year. "The first time I stood in front of an arrow coming towards my head, I was very scared. We do it twice a day, every day, so it's not scary anymore. "I'm a bit of an adrenaline junkie to be fair. I just like anything that scares me a little bit." The unique career choice does mean family life is a bit different, particularly for their young daughter Lexi. She is raised on the road, travelling around the UK and being home-schooled by her mum. It can be a bit difficult at times and Jackie has admitted that at some point she knows she will have to give up performing and give Lexi a more traditional schooling, although that was something the six-year-old immediately shook her head at. She wants to stay in the circus for as long as possible. Far from being a reluctant participant, Lexi is thoroughly immersed in the circus world. When asked if she enjoys it, her answer is a simple, enthusiastic "Yeah." She is a regular spectator, declaring, "I like watching the show all the time," and even practices on the ropes herself. She has her own clear ambitions: "I want to do the crossbow with my feet," she says with determination. With neither of Jackie or Walter being from traditional circus families, there could have been a bit of a nervousness to get involved but both say they have been welcomed with open arms. Jackie continued: "Circus people are much more accepting of newbies coming in now. It's just one big community and a big family... Everyone just helps everyone." The appeal of the lifestyle is multifaceted. It's the constant travel and discovery, "to explore the country and not have to pay for it," and the satisfaction of a successful performance. Yet, the future is a persistent consideration. The pull to provide a more conventional, full-time education for Lexi conflicts with their love for their life's work. The thought of leaving the circus after nearly two decades is a scary one, and not just because they would have to get new jobs but also the fact they would not be spending every minute of the day together. When asked what she would do if she did retire from performing, Jackie responded: "I've no idea. That is why I haven't stopped circus because I literally am petrified of what I will do with my life." Walter harbours a long-held ambition to one day run his own show but their focus is on Zippos Circus and continuing to travel around the UK, with a nod that Scotland's crowds are always the best and trips to the North East of the country are often their favourite with the views particularly enthralling on travel days and what comes next remains a decision for another day. For now, their life remains a whirlwind of performance, practice, and travel, a nomadic existence that has become their normal. From a speculative google search to a boy selling popcorn in Brazil, their stories converge in a life that is as challenging as it is rewarding, held together by family, community, and the enduring magic of the circus. Zippo's Circus will be performing at Queen's Park in Glasgow until Monday August 4 with multiple shows on the same day. They will also be performing in Kirkintilloch from Wednesday, August 6 until Monday, August 11 and in Ayr from Wednesday August 13 until Sunday, August 17. Tickets are available to book at
News18
a day ago
- Entertainment
- News18
Actor's Father Was A Spy, Mother Smuggled Opium - He Became Mega Hollywood Star
Last Updated: Jackie Chan's father was a Chinese spy, his mother smuggled opium. The actor's real-life family history is more thrilling than any of his blockbuster films. Before Jackie Chan became one of the biggest action stars in Hollywood, his life story was already more dramatic than any of his blockbuster films. Born as Chan Kong-sang in Hong Kong in 1954, Jackie grew up unaware of his parents' secret pasts. Jackie Chan's father, Charles Chan, led an extraordinary life. Before fleeing to Hong Kong, Charles had worked as a spy for the Chinese Nationalist government (Kuomintang) during the Chinese Civil War. He was reportedly involved in intelligence work and counter-espionage during a time when China was politically volatile. His job required him to go undercover, move across cities with fake identities, and even engage in life-threatening missions. When the Communists came to power, Charles fled to Hong Kong, where he later worked as a cook for the French embassy. Jackie's mother, Lee-Lee Chan, had an equally riveting and risky past. She was reportedly involved in the opium trade during war-torn times in China. According to British author and journalist James Palmer, who wrote extensively on Jackie Chan's family history, Lee-Lee smuggled opium and even worked as a blackjack dealer and a stage performer to survive. She too eventually fled to Hong Kong after a difficult period marked by poverty and loss. The couple met in Hong Kong, both trying to start over, and married while working for foreign diplomats. Jackie was born during this chapter of their lives. For many years, he had no idea about their dangerous and complex histories, a secret that only surfaced later in his life when he was already famous. Jackie Chan: From Humble Beginnings To Global Action Icon Jackie Chan's own journey to stardom wasn't easy either. He was enrolled in the China Drama Academy at the age of seven, where he trained rigorously in martial arts, acrobatics and performance arts. The training was intense and at times brutal, but it shaped Jackie into a highly skilled performer with a flair for physical comedy and daredevil stunts. After working as a stuntman in Bruce Lee's films like Fist of Fury and Enter the Dragon, Jackie got his big break with Drunken Master (1978), a martial arts comedy that became a massive hit. Over the years, he rose to international fame with action-packed films like Police Story, Project A and Armour of God. In Hollywood, he became a household name with the Rush Hour franchise alongside Chris Tucker, as well as Shanghai Noon, The Tuxedo and The Karate Kid reboot. What sets Jackie Chan apart is his insistence on doing his own stunts, earning him a reputation as one of the most fearless action stars in film history. From a son of a spy and an opium smuggler to a beloved global icon, Jackie Chan's real-life story is a remarkable tale of resilience, reinvention and unstoppable ambition. view comments First Published: July 30, 2025, 21:52 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
San Francisco Chronicle
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- San Francisco Chronicle
From Seoul to soul: ‘We Are Forever Young' chronicles the BTS ARMY's global bond
K-pop is enjoying a fresh landslide of interest from the runaway success of 'KPop Demon Hunters' on Netflix, Blackpink's summer tour and, most recently, BTS completing its South Korean mandatory military enlistment, with new music and a tour teased for 2026. Amid these seismic events, documentary filmmaker Grace Lee (' The Grace Lee Project,' 'American Revolutionary: The Evolution of Grace Lee Boggs') and UC San Diego professor and K-pop scholar Patty Ahn couldn't script a better time for their documentary to drop. In ' BTS Army: Forever We Are Young,' which opens Wednesday, July 30, in theaters, the Korean American directors spent three years meeting with and learning about the group's fiercely dedicated global fan base known as ARMY, an acronym for Adorable Representative M.C. of Youth. There are many documentaries floating around about the elite seven-member Korean boy band, but 'Forever We Are Young' is the first one devoted just to ARMY. The duo traveled the world to understand how BTS — rappers, singers and dancers RM, Jin, Jimin, Suga, J-Hope, V and Jungkook — have affected the lives of this intergenerational collective, and how ARMY manifested that inspiration to spread the BTS gospel, advance social causes and love themselves. 'Forever We Are Young' captures fans' intimate thoughts, many confessing how BTS' music and message helped them overcome hardships and find connection and community. With Ahn and Lee being self-proclaimed ARMY, their familiarity with and understanding of BTS and the attendant cultural minutiae comes through and allows their subjects to feel comfortable opening up to them. And there's a strong diversity of voices represented. The film introduces viewers to YouTube content creator Nico, who related his story about how BTS' ballad 'Epiphany' helped him reexamine his life and reconcile feelings of loss and trauma due to Hurricane Katrina. Len, a nonbinary dancer in Mexico City, spoke about how BTS' youngest member Jungkook inspired her to express her masculine side. And there's Jackie, an older small-town ARMY flying BTS' purple colors in a deep-red state. She credited the band with helping her deal with severe depression. 'I found myself becoming happy and alive again,' Jackie said. 'I truly believe God used BTS to save my life.' The documentary focuses on DIY organizational tactics fans use to influence airplay, awards show voting and chart positions. They also mobilize for social media campaigns that the group supports. When BTS and their management company donated a million dollars to Black Lives Matter in 2020, ARMY quickly matched that amount. That said, fandom is not all finger hearts. The filmmakers acknowledge pain points when someone's favorite underdog group suddenly becomes popular and how fan behavior can turn toxic when old and new opinions mix. There's lots of footage from key moments in the group's evolution, from the 2013 debut days begging passersby to attend their 200-seat showcase to the massive 2022 post-pandemic concert at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood (Los Angeles County). Despite the constant onscreen presence of BTS, there's no face-to-face interview between directors Lee and Ahn with BTS. If the film has a shortcoming, it's the absence of bespoke commentary from the band about ARMY.
