Global Pulse

分类： entertainment

  • From fatherhood to new singing styles, Farhan Saeed talks about coming a full circle as musician

    From fatherhood to new singing styles, Farhan Saeed talks about coming a full circle as musician

    Pakistani entertainment icon Farhan Saeed has embarked on a profound artistic homecoming with the release of his inaugural solo album, ‘KHAT,’ marking a significant milestone in his two-decade career spanning music and television. The ten-track collection represents not just a musical project but a deeply personal journey of creative rediscovery influenced by recent fatherhood and artistic evolution.

    Saeed’s decision to release his debut solo album emerges after years of fan anticipation and industry transformation. ‘The music landscape underwent radical changes following my time with JAL,’ Saeed reflects. ‘With the digital revolution and YouTube’s temporary ban in Pakistan, the entire industry had to adapt. Now, with independent distribution models, the timing felt right for this complete artistic expression.’

    The album features a strategic monthly release schedule, with each track receiving individual promotion and dedicated music videos directed by diverse filmmakers. ‘This approach allows each composition to resonate fully with audiences,’ Saeed explains. ‘Unlike the traditional album drop, this method gives every song its deserved moment in the spotlight.’

    Fatherhood proved transformative for Saeed’s creative process. ‘After my daughter’s birth in January 2024, music returned to me with renewed intensity,’ he shares. ‘The happiness and fulfillment of parenthood unlocked creative channels that had remained dormant during my focused acting years.’

    Saeed’s acting career has significantly influenced his musical storytelling approach. ‘The disciplines complement each other remarkably,’ he notes. ‘I utilize emotional preparation techniques from acting to imbue songs with authentic feeling, even when performing emotionally demanding material that contrasts with my personal happiness.’

    The album blends Urdu and Punjabi languages, reflecting Saeed’s cultural background and artistic instincts. ‘Certain emotions naturally express themselves better in Punjabi,’ he observes. ‘I trust my artistic intuition regarding language selection rather than following commercial calculations.’

    Saeed emphasizes melody-driven composition as his signature sound, consciously avoiding contemporary trends. ‘Melody possesses timeless appeal,’ he asserts. ‘While many artists chase current sounds, I believe in creating music with lasting emotional resonance rather than temporary popularity.’

    The artist will support the album with an extensive tour across Pakistan and Bangladesh, with potential Dubai dates pending rescheduling. This performance series will showcase Saeed’s newly refined singing style and emotional connection to his latest compositions.

  • Hrithik Roshan praises Farhan Akhtar’s war drama ‘120 Bahadur’

    Hrithik Roshan praises Farhan Akhtar’s war drama ‘120 Bahadur’

    Bollywood luminary Hrithik Roshan has delivered a resounding endorsement of Farhan Akhtar’s latest cinematic venture, the war drama ‘120 Bahadur,’ through an enthusiastic social media tribute. On his official Instagram account, Roshan celebrated the film as a “beautifully crafted” masterpiece distinguished by “incredible aesthetics” and outstanding performances.

    Roshan specifically commended Akhtar’s portrayal in the film while praising director Razneesh Ghai’s “flawless” artistic direction. The actor’s post emphasized the collective achievement, noting that “every department deserves a pat on their backs” for their contribution to the production.

    The historical drama depicts the heroic actions of Major Shaitan Singh Bhati, who was posthumously awarded India’s highest military honor, the Param Vir Chakra, for his leadership during the 1962 Battle of Rezang La. The film focuses on the valor demonstrated by Singh’s unit, composed primarily of soldiers from Rewari and surrounding regions, who defended the strategically crucial Rezang La Pass along the India-China border.

    In previous interviews with ANI, Akhtar reflected on the particular challenges inherent in bringing such historically significant stories to the screen. The actor-producer emphasized the additional responsibility of ensuring accurate and respectful depiction of military sacrifice, noting the importance of creating a narrative that would inspire pride among the families of those represented.

    The ensemble cast features Raashii Khanna, Sparsh Walia, Vivan Bhatena, and Dhanveer Singh in significant roles, contributing to what industry observers are calling a landmark in Indian war cinema.

  • Hollywood icon Linda Hamilton embraces ageing, says ‘This is the face I’ve earned’

    Hollywood icon Linda Hamilton embraces ageing, says ‘This is the face I’ve earned’

    Veteran actress Linda Hamilton, renowned for her groundbreaking portrayal of Sarah Connor in the ‘Terminator’ film series, is receiving widespread acclaim for her performance in the concluding season of Netflix’s ‘Stranger Things’. At 69, Hamilton is simultaneously making a powerful statement about aging with dignity in an industry often obsessed with youth.

    In a candid interview with AARP’s Movies for Grownups, the Hollywood icon articulated her firm stance against pursuing a perpetually youthful appearance. She characterized the aging process as both natural and meaningful, something to be embraced rather than reversed. Hamilton explicitly stated she dedicates zero effort to attempting to look younger, declaring complete surrender to the face she has ‘earned’ through her life experiences. She finds profound value in her appearance, noting it tells a rich and personal story.

    While firmly rejecting surgical alterations to her face, Hamilton emphasized her commitment to physical wellness. During her work on ‘Stranger Things’, she maintained a rigorous fitness regimen, visiting the gym three times weekly. Her holistic approach combined Pilates, yoga, and a diverse range of weight training, focusing on what her body needed to ‘loosen up and stretch out’ each day rather than adhering to a rigid, aesthetic-driven routine.

    The final season of the hit sci-fi series has been released in two parts. Netflix debuted the first four episodes, plunging viewers into a darker and more expansive Hawkins. According to the platform’s Tudum fan site, the narrative will conclude with episodes 5, 6, and 7 arriving on December 25, culminating in the highly anticipated series finale on New Year’s Eve, December 31.

  • ‘I can’t see TV anymore’: Judi Dench opens up on worsening eyesight

    ‘I can’t see TV anymore’: Judi Dench opens up on worsening eyesight

    Dame Judi Dench, the revered Academy Award-winning actress celebrated for her iconic portrayal of ‘M’ in the James Bond series, has provided a poignant update on her deteriorating eyesight, revealing the condition has severely impacted her professional and personal life. In a candid interview with ITV News, the 90-year-old theatrical legend disclosed she can no longer recognize faces, read scripts, or watch television due to advanced macular degeneration.

    Speaking alongside her longtime friend and collaborator Sir Ian McKellen, Dench described the practical realities of her vision loss. When met with a light-hearted remark from McKellen, she responded with characteristic wit, noting she could only perceive his outline and recognized him by his distinctive scarf. The actress confirmed that the degenerative eye disease, which damages the central retina and causes progressive central vision distortion, has made continuing her acting career nearly impossible.

    Dench first publicly addressed her diagnosis with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in 2012. Over the past decade, the condition has advanced significantly, prompting her to scale back her professional commitments. She revealed in previous interviews that she relies on friends to help her learn scripts due to her inability to read them herself, despite having what she describes as a ‘photographic memory.’

    With a career spanning seven remarkable decades, Dench has accumulated an extraordinary collection of honors including an Oscar, a Tony Award, two Golden Globes, and multiple BAFTA and Olivier Awards. Her most recent appearance was a 2022 cameo in the Apple TV+ holiday film ‘Spirited.’ Her openness about her vision struggles provides a sobering look at the challenges facing performers with age-related health conditions.

  • ‘Tere Ishk Mein’ review: A bewildering tale of toxic love

    ‘Tere Ishk Mein’ review: A bewildering tale of toxic love

    Aanand L. Rai’s latest cinematic offering ‘Tere Ishk Mein’ presents audiences with a challenging dichotomy: either a nuanced exploration of destructive relationships or an incoherent narrative attempting to tackle too many themes simultaneously. Starring Dhanush as Shankar, a violence-prone college student immersed in campus politics, and Kriti Sanon as Mukti, a PhD researcher studying psychological rehabilitation, the film navigates troubled romantic waters where consent becomes negotiable and obsession masquerades as devotion.

    The narrative follows Shankar’s transformation from a petrol-bomb-throwing agitator to a UPSC aspirant, motivated solely by his unrequited fixation on Mukti. Their dynamic evolves through psychologically manipulative interactions, with Mukti initially maintaining professional boundaries while studying Shankar’s violent tendencies. The film’s Delhi ecosystem—from stark class divisions to IAS elitism—provides compelling backdrop to this toxic dance.

    Technical achievements shine through AR Rahman’s evocative musical score and standout performances, particularly Dhanush’s authentic portrayal of Tamil roots and Prakash Raj’s poignant supporting role as Shankar’s father. A particularly effective scene reveals Mukti’s privileged awakening when visiting Shankar’s humble dwelling.

    However, the screenplay collapses under its own ambitious weight, abandoning narrative logic for melodramatic contrivance. Mukti’s professional credibility diminishes as she continues assessing Shankar while pregnant and emotionally compromised—a scenario defying realistic defense protocol. The film’s third act introduces baffling metaphysical explanations about salvation (mukti) and sacrifice that feel unearned, while Shankar’s redemption as a fighter pilot seems conveniently miraculous rather than psychologically earned.

    The fundamental question remains whether ‘Tere Ishk Mein’ critiques toxic masculinity or inadvertently glorifies it. While the film acknowledges its characters’ flaws more explicitly than previous Rai works like ‘Raanjhana’, it ultimately drowns in its own philosophical aspirations, leaving audiences more bewildered than enlightened about modern romance’s complexities.

  • Long-lost Rubens painting depicting crucifixion sells for $2.7M

    Long-lost Rubens painting depicting crucifixion sells for $2.7M

    A previously unknown masterpiece by Baroque legend Peter Paul Rubens, discovered after being concealed for over 400 years, achieved a remarkable €2.3 million ($2.7 million) sale at a Versailles auction this Sunday. The artwork, portraying the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, was unexpectedly located within a private Parisian townhouse.

    Initially dismissed as a workshop production and valued below €10,000, the painting’s fortunes changed dramatically when auctioneer Jean-Pierre Osenat pursued authentication. His persistence led to formal recognition by the Rubenianum, the official Rubens advisory committee in Antwerp.

    Art historian Nils Büttner highlighted the work’s exceptional nature, noting that while Rubens frequently depicted crucifixions, this particular representation uniquely shows “the crucified Christ as a dead body on the cross.” Büttner emphasized its singular status as “the one and only painting showing blood and water coming out of the side wound of Christ” in Rubens’ entire oeuvre.

    The auction house Osenat confirmed the painting’s authenticity through rigorous scientific examination. Microscopic analysis revealed complex pigment layers including white, black, red, plus distinctive blue and green pigments characteristic of Rubens’ skin tone techniques.

    Art specialist Eric Turquin revealed to a captivated audience that the work had virtually vanished from historical records in the early 17th century. Its provenance traces back to 19th-century French classical painter William Bouguereau, remaining within his familial lineage until its recent rediscovery.

  • UAE National Day 2025: Indian musician AR Rahman composes special song for Eid Al Etihad

    UAE National Day 2025: Indian musician AR Rahman composes special song for Eid Al Etihad

    Academy Award-winning composer AR Rahman has crafted a special musical tribute titled ‘Jamal Al Etihad’ (Beauty of the Union) in honor of the UAE’s 54th National Day celebrations. The exclusive English-language composition represents a departure from the Indian maestro’s typical cinematic work, conceived as what Rahman describes as “a therapy of smile” for the nation.

    The project originated in 2023 when Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Chairman of Burjeel Holdings, approached Rahman with the vision of creating a musical gift for the UAE. Despite beginning work two years ago, global circumstances prompted the team to delay the release until this year’s celebrations.

    In an exclusive interview with Khaleej Times, Rahman revealed his creative process involved developing multiple concepts before finalizing the current version. “It’s a simple, joyful tribute to the UAE and the values that bring the country together,” the composer explained. “The idea was to bring together the people who make this country what it is — workers, entrepreneurs, royalty, expats. Everyone is working towards something big for the UAE.”

    Describing the track as a “UAE-born creation,” Rahman emphasized its universal appeal. “It’s a vibe. Something you can enjoy in the car, in the desert, anywhere you feel like. It’s about being together, working together for greatness, and giving joy to each other.”

    The composition marks a rare English-language project for Rahman, who noted that creating music for a nation differs fundamentally from film scoring. “This is for hope,” he stated, capturing what he identifies as the UAE’s essential emotional quality: “If the UAE were a melody, it would be happiness.”

    The official unveiling occurred on November 29th at 9:30 PM at the Layali Al Wathba Theatre during the Sheikh Zayed Festival in Abu Dhabi. The event, presented by Burjeel Holdings, featured free admission for all festival ticket holders, with doors opening at 7:00 PM. The musical presentation culminated in a three-minute fireworks display at 10:00 PM, creating one of the evening’s highlight moments.

    As the UAE approaches its 54th National Day, ‘Jamal Al Etihad’ serves as a musical embodiment of unity, generosity, and the joyful spirit characterizing the nation’s identity.

  • Dubai’s Global Village extends operating hours for UAE National Day

    Dubai’s Global Village extends operating hours for UAE National Day

    Dubai’s premier cultural entertainment destination, Global Village, has unveiled special operational adjustments in honor of the UAE’s 54th National Day celebrations. The expansive theme park will extend its operating hours throughout the festive period from November 27th to December 3rd, adopting the unifying theme ‘United’ to commemorate the nation’s historic milestone.

    The extended schedule features enhanced visitor accessibility with operations running from 4:00 PM to 1:00 AM from November 27th through December 1st. Subsequently, on December 2nd and 3rd, the park will maintain extended hours from 4:00 PM until midnight, providing ample opportunity for residents and tourists to immerse themselves in the celebrations.

    Beyond extended access, Global Village has curated an elaborate program of cultural festivities and technological spectacles. The celebration lineup includes sophisticated drone displays scheduled for 9:00 PM on December 1st and 2nd, complemented by pyrotechnic presentations from December 1st through 3rd. The entertainment roster features a special performance by renowned Khaleeji artist Khaled Mohammed on the main stage on December 1st.

    This strategic extension forms part of Dubai’s broader cultural initiatives to honor Emirati heritage and national identity. The extended operational framework allows visitors to experience the park’s diverse cultural pavilions, traditional performances, and culinary offerings during the celebratory period, enhancing the overall National Day experience for both domestic and international guests.

  • The Wiggles issue statement after appearing in Ecstasy music video

    The Wiggles issue statement after appearing in Ecstasy music video

    Australian children’s entertainment institution The Wiggles has found itself embroiled in controversy after two of its performers appeared in an unauthorized music video that appears to reference recreational drug use. The incident involves founding member Anthony Field (the Blue Wiggle) and his nephew Dominic Field (portraying the Tree of Wisdom), who were captured dancing in the background of musician Keli Holiday’s since-deleted ‘Ecstasy’ music video.

    The children’s group moved swiftly to address growing concerns among parents and educators, issuing an official statement clarifying their position. ‘The Wiggles do not support or condone the use of drugs in any form,’ declared a spokesperson. ‘The content being shared was not created or approved by us, and we have asked for it to be removed.’

    According to Australian media reports, the controversial TikTok video had amassed over 92,000 views before being taken down. The footage originated from this month’s TikTok Awards ceremony, where Wiggles members had participated in a family-friendly stage performance with Holiday (real name Adam Hyde) during his song ‘Dancing2.’

    The situation developed when Holiday independently edited and repurposed this footage to promote his new single ‘Ecstasy’—a track whose chorus contains the lyrics: ‘Hey girl, come on dance with me. You and your pocket full of ecstasy.’ His TikTok post carried the caption ‘The Wiggles get it,’ suggesting an endorsement that the children’s group vehemently denies.

    Despite acknowledging Holiday as a friend of the organization, The Wiggles emphasized that the video was ‘edited together separately and without our awareness.’ The group, which began as a university project in 1991 and has since evolved into a global preschool phenomenon, maintains stringent standards regarding its family-friendly image. Anthony Field remains the only original member still performing with the ensemble.

    Keli Holiday represents the solo endeavor of Hyde, who previously gained recognition as one-half of the electronic dance act Peking Duk. The BBC has reached out to Holiday’s management team for additional commentary on the situation.

  • Playwright Sir Tom Stoppard dies at 88

    Playwright Sir Tom Stoppard dies at 88

    The world of theatre and literature mourns the passing of Sir Tom Stoppard, the celebrated British playwright, who died peacefully at his Dorset residence surrounded by family at the age of 88. His representatives at United Agents confirmed the news, celebrating a life that profoundly shaped contemporary drama across seven decades.

    Sir Tom’s extraordinary career earned him global recognition, most notably an Academy Award and Golden Globe for his ingenious screenplay of ‘Shakespeare in Love.’ His theatrical masterpieces, including ‘The Real Thing’ and the groundbreaking ‘Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead,’ established him as one of Britain’s most intellectually vibrant and linguistically gifted dramatists.

    Beyond his theatrical achievements, Stoppard demonstrated remarkable versatility by writing for film, television, and radio. His adaptations included a critically acclaimed version of Tolstoy’s ‘Anna Karenina’ (2012), while his semi-autobiographical play ‘Leopoldstadt’ – exploring Jewish identity in early 20th century Vienna – recently garnered both Olivier and Tony awards.

    Born Tomas Straussler in Czechoslovakia, Stoppard’s life contained profound personal tragedy. He fled the Nazi occupation as a child, later discovering that all four of his Jewish grandparents perished in concentration camps. This heritage informed much of his later work, particularly ‘Leopoldstadt,’ which examined the very identity he had escaped confronting until adulthood.

    Before his dramatic career blossomed, Stoppard worked as a journalist in Bristol during the 1950s, though he humorously recounted his inadequacies in the profession. His true calling emerged with the 1966 premiere of ‘Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead’ at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, which subsequently transferred to the National Theatre and Broadway, winning four Tony Awards in 1968.

    Honored with a knighthood by Queen Elizabeth II in 1997 for his services to literature, Stoppard leaves behind an unparalleled legacy. Tributes have poured in from across the arts world, with Rolling Stones frontman Sir Mick Jagger describing him as his ‘favourite playwright’ whose ‘majestic body of intellectual and amusing work’ would endure.