Global Pulse

分类： entertainment

  • Sreenivasan dies: Tributes pour in for Malayalam cinema’s iconic social critic

    Sreenivasan dies: Tributes pour in for Malayalam cinema’s iconic social critic

    The Indian film industry mourns the passing of Sreenivasan, the iconic Malayalam cinema figure whose death on December 20, 2025, has triggered an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, politicians, and countless admirers. With a career spanning over five decades, the multitalented artist contributed to more than 200 films as an actor and penned scripts for over 50 productions, establishing himself as a unique voice in Indian cinema.

    Sreenivasan’s distinctive approach to filmmaking blended sharp social criticism with accessible humor, creating works that resonated deeply with Kerala’s masses. His ability to highlight the common person’s struggles through witty storytelling set his cinema apart and made him one of the most relatable figures in Malayalam entertainment.

    The news of his passing prompted heartfelt responses across social media platforms, with fans remembering his deeply humane qualities and extraordinary versatility across acting, writing, direction, and production. The film industry united in grief, with contemporaries and proteges alike sharing personal anecdotes and professional admiration.

    Indian actor-politician Mukesh recalled Sreenivasan’s unwavering commitment to cinema and his characteristic frankness, noting that even his criticism was delivered with humor. Mukesh revealed their collaboration on ‘Katha Parayumpol,’ later remade in Hindi as ‘Billu,’ as a testament to their creative partnership.

    Prominent actor Prithviraj took to Instagram to bid farewell to “one of the greatest-ever writer/director/actor,” thanking him for both laughter and profound thoughts. Director-actor Basil Joseph acknowledged Sreenivasan’s significant role in shaping childhood memories and happiest moments for generations of viewers.

    Shashi Tharoor, Member of Parliament for Thiruvananthapuram, declared that Malayalam cinema would never be the same without Sreenivasan’s genius, praising him as a true master who redefined on-screen heroism. Tharoor emphasized the writer’s unparalleled ability to capture Kerala’s social pulse, describing his scripts as time capsules containing rich social commentary, humor, and wit.

    Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan characterized the loss as both personal and irreparable to Malayalam cinema, highlighting how few filmmakers had succeeded as Sreenivasan did in bringing common people’s lives to the silver screen while guiding audiences through reflective humor. The Chief Minister noted that Sreenivasan had entered the industry by breaking longstanding conventions, establishing a new paradigm for meaningful cinema that entertained while provoking thought.

  • Children’s author David Walliams denies inappropriate behavior after publisher drops him

    Children’s author David Walliams denies inappropriate behavior after publisher drops him

    In a significant development within the British publishing industry, HarperCollins UK has severed ties with renowned children’s author and television personality David Walliams following unspecified allegations. The 54-year-old comedian, whose literary works have achieved global recognition, finds himself at the center of controversy as the publishing giant announced it would cease publication of any new titles from the author.

    The decision, confirmed through an official statement released on Friday, marks a dramatic turn in Walliams’ prolific career. HarperCollins indicated the move came “after careful consideration” under the direction of its new chief executive, though the publisher declined to elaborate on specific details regarding the allegations, citing respect for individual privacy and internal processes.

    Walliams’ representatives have issued a forceful response, asserting the author had received no formal notification of any allegations from HarperCollins prior to the termination decision. According to his spokesperson, Walliams was excluded from any investigative proceedings and denied opportunity to address concerns directly. The author maintains his innocence regarding any alleged inappropriate conduct and has sought legal counsel in response to the publisher’s actions.

    The publishing house emphasized its commitment to employee welfare, noting it maintains established protocols for reporting and examining workplace concerns. This separation occurs despite Walliams’ extraordinary commercial success within children’s literature—his website documents over 40 published works with more than 60 million copies sold internationally. Several of his most popular titles, including “Gangsta Granny,” have been adapted into successful television productions and theatrical performances.

    This professional setback follows previous controversy surrounding Walliams’ tenure as a judge on “Britain’s Got Talent,” from which he departed in 2022 after issuing apologies for making disrespectful remarks about participants during auditions.

  • Malayalam cinema legend Sreenivasan dies: Indian media reports

    Malayalam cinema legend Sreenivasan dies: Indian media reports

    The Indian film industry is in mourning following the passing of Sreenivasan, a towering figure in Malayalam cinema who died at age 69 according to multiple media reports confirmed on December 20, 2025. The multifaceted artist leaves behind an extraordinary legacy spanning acting, directing, and screenwriting that profoundly shaped Indian regional cinema for decades.

    Sreenivasan’s career exemplified creative versatility, with his filmography encompassing more than 200 acting credits alongside numerous writing and directing projects. He earned particular acclaim for his sharp social commentaries woven throughout his work, addressing contemporary issues with both intelligence and accessibility. His screenwriting resonated across generations, capturing the nuances of everyday life while offering thoughtful critique of societal structures.

    The cultural impact of his filmography extends beyond mere entertainment, with many of his works now considered essential viewing for understanding the evolution of Malayalam cinema. His unique ability to balance humor with substantive social observation created a distinctive style that influenced countless contemporary filmmakers and performers.

    Tributes from colleagues, critics, and admirers have highlighted his exceptional contribution to Indian regional cinema, noting how his work consistently elevated the artistic standards of the industry. His passing represents not just the loss of a beloved performer but the departure of a visionary creative force whose work documented and shaped cultural conversations across multiple decades.

    The film community anticipates commemorations of his life and work will emerge in coming days as fans and industry professionals alike reflect on the enduring significance of his artistic legacy.

  • ‘Very cool’: The 70s Afro-rock genre enjoying a rebirth

    ‘Very cool’: The 70s Afro-rock genre enjoying a rebirth

    A musical revolution born in 1970s Zambia is experiencing an extraordinary global resurgence, captivating contemporary artists and vinyl collectors worldwide. Zamrock—a potent fusion of psychedelic rock and traditional African rhythms—emerged during Zambia’s post-colonial era as a bold declaration of cultural identity. Now, five decades after its inception, this nearly forgotten genre is commanding unprecedented international attention.

    Zambian-born artist Sampa the Great is spearheading the revival movement, incorporating Zamrock’s distinctive sound into her highly anticipated third studio album. The breakthrough single ‘Can’t Hold Us’ showcases the genre’s signature fuzz guitars and defiant spirit, with Sampa declaring through her lyrics: ‘They don’t have the guts to match my prowess.’ Her artistic exploration reveals personal connections to the movement—her uncle, ‘Groovy’ George Kunda, was among WITCH’s founding members.

    The Zamrock renaissance extends far beyond African borders. Prominent American artists including Travis Scott, Yves Tumor, and Tyler, the Creator have sampled tracks from legendary Zamrock bands Ngozi Family, Amanaz, and WITCH. The genre has permeated popular culture through television soundtracks for HBO’s ‘Watchmen’ and Apple TV’s ‘Ted Lasso,’ introducing Zambian psychedelic rock to mainstream audiences.

    This remarkable revival follows decades of obscurity stemming from Zambia’s economic collapse in the 1980s. The copper market crash, musical piracy, and the devastating HIV/AIDS crisis that claimed numerous musicians—including five WITCH members—effectively silenced the genre for thirty years. Original band members like frontman Emmanuel ‘Jagari’ Chanda transitioned to conventional livelihoods, with Jagari working in mines to support his family.

    The turning point arrived in the early 2010s when California-based Now-Again Records began reissuing Zamrock albums. Label head Eothen ‘Egon’ Alapatt recognized the genre’s unique appeal, noting that English-language recordings particularly resonated with international collectors. Original vinyl pressings now command between $100 and $1,000 on the collector’s market.

    WITCH has experienced a phenomenal second act, reforming with original members and European musicians. The reinvented band has released two new albums, starred in a documentary, performed at Glastonbury, and completed international tours—achievements unimaginable during their initial run. At 74, Jagari describes the experience as ‘a new lease on life I never expected at my advanced age.’

    While celebrating international recognition, Zambian music advocates emphasize preserving the genre’s cultural context. Record store owner Duncan Sodala acknowledges the value of Western sampling but stresses the importance of artists like Sampa the Great who engage with Zamrock’s complete artistic tradition rather than treating it as mere source material.

    The movement continues gaining momentum through Zambia’s new generation of artists, dedicated festivals, and museum exhibitions. Sampa characterizes her upcoming work as ‘nu Zamrock,’ blending traditional elements with contemporary hip-hop influences. As Jagari poetically observes from his New Zealand tour stop: ‘The fire has been lit. It’s up to the younger generation to put more firewood to it and let the flames burn.’

  • Timothée Chalamet teams up with EsDeeKid to quash alter-ego rumours

    Timothée Chalamet teams up with EsDeeKid to quash alter-ego rumours

    Hollywood star Timothée Chalamet has definitively resolved widespread speculation about his alleged secret identity as anonymous UK rapper EsDeeKid through an unexpected musical collaboration. The Oscar-nominated actor, who previously cultivated mystery by responding “No comment” to BBC inquiries, finally addressed the rumors by appearing alongside the masked drill artist in a new music video.

    The visually clever video, filmed at Andover Minimarket Off Licence in north London, begins with Chalamet mimicking EsDeeKid’s signature style—showing only his eyes beneath a bandana. The actor then dramatically reveals his full face while delivering self-referential bars: “It’s Timothée Chalamet chillin’, tryin’ to stack $100 million,” followed by a nod to partner Kylie Jenner with “Girl got $1 billion.”

    This strategic collaboration serves multiple purposes: it conclusively disproves theories that Chalamet and EsDeeKid are the same person while simultaneously generating substantial buzz for both artists. The partnership cleverly capitalizes on weeks of fan speculation that had intensified as EsDeeKid reached the UK top 10 charts while Chalamet promoted his upcoming film ‘Marty Supreme’—which receives several mentions in the new track.

    The viral remix of EsDeeKid’s hit ‘4Raws’ has garnered significant attention across social media platforms, with prominent artists including Central Cee, Tinie Tempah, and Shaboozey praising the unexpected collaboration. Industry observers note the campaign demonstrates sophisticated cross-promotion between music and film marketing, leveraging viral speculation to maximize engagement for both Chalamet’s cinematic project and EsDeeKid’s musical career.

  • ACM Winter Village brings the magic of a European festive town to Arabian Center with free family experiences

    ACM Winter Village brings the magic of a European festive town to Arabian Center with free family experiences

    Dubai’s Arabian Center has inaugurated an immersive winter wonderland, transporting visitors to the heart of a traditional European festive village without leaving the city. Running from December 18, 2025, through January 4, 2026, the meticulously crafted Winter Village at Entrance B offers complimentary daily access from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM, creating an accessible seasonal destination for multigenerational families.

    The installation features snow-dusted cottages, castle-inspired architecture, and glowing lanterns amidst rich seasonal décor, establishing a storybook atmosphere that evokes nostalgic European winter celebrations. This visually stunning environment provides numerous photo opportunities and immersive exploration experiences both during daylight hours and under evening illumination.

    Central to the activation are diverse complimentary activities designed for family engagement. The Enchanted Craft Workshop enables children to create winter-themed keepsakes through hands-on artistic expression. The Royal Dress-Up & Photo Booth permits families to transform into royalty and knights, with professional photography services capturing these moments for lasting memorabilia.

    Thematic programming includes regularly scheduled Story Time with the Wizard, where theatrical storytelling sessions bring magical narratives to life three times daily. Interactive elements continue with Medieval Market Mini Games that recreate traditional village fair challenges, while professional face painters provide festive designs enhancing the imaginative experience.

    Additional attractions include daily themed giveaways while supplies last and specially scheduled roaming entertainment on key dates throughout the activation period. On December 19-20, 25-26, 2025, and January 2-3, 9-10, 2026, visitors can experience dynamic performances including winter characters, Christmas entertainers, bubble shows, and vibrant parades at 5:00 PM, 6:00 PM, 7:00 PM, and 8:00 PM throughout the mall complex.

    This comprehensive activation represents Arabian Center’s commitment to creating inclusive community experiences that celebrate festive traditions through imagination and togetherness, offering Dubai families an opportunity to create lasting holiday memories in an accessible urban setting.

  • ‘My kids were afraid I would die’: Kristin Cabot breaks silence after viral Coldplay video

    ‘My kids were afraid I would die’: Kristin Cabot breaks silence after viral Coldplay video

    In an exclusive first interview, Kristin Cabot has broken her five-month silence regarding the viral incident that transformed her life into a global spectacle. The former Astronomer HR executive detailed the profound personal consequences stemming from a momentary lapse in judgment at a Coldplay concert in July 2025, when she was captured on the Jumbotron sharing an intimate moment with her then-CEO, Andy Byron.

    The encounter, immortalized in a TikTok video that amassed 100 million views within days, triggered what would become known as #coldplaygate—a digital firestorm that brought Cabot’s professional and personal life to a devastating halt. Beyond the public humiliation, Cabot faced severe real-world repercussions: relentless doxxing that flooded her phone with hundreds of daily calls, death threats referencing her daily routines, and paparazzi stationed outside her New Hampshire home.

    Cabot revealed the profound impact on her family, particularly her two teenage children who feared for their safety. ‘My kids were afraid that I was going to die and they were going to die,’ she recounted, describing how the family became apprehensive about public spaces. The emotional toll manifested in her daughter’s tears upon learning of the incident and her son’s embarrassment during confrontations with strangers.

    Contrary to widespread speculation, Cabot maintains that her relationship with Byron was not sexual. ‘I made a bad decision and had a couple of High Noons and danced and acted inappropriately with my boss,’ she stated. ‘That night was the first and only time we kissed.’ Both executives immediately reported the incident to Astronomer’s board, with Byron resigning days later. Though the company offered to reinstate Cabot, she negotiated her resignation, recognizing the impossibility of maintaining her HR leadership role amid the scandal.

    The phenomenon attracted commentary from celebrities including Gwyneth Paltrow and Whoopi Goldberg, while internet culture expert Professor Brooke Duffy of Cornell University contextualized the incident within historical patterns of public shaming and gendered criticism. Cabot expressed particular disappointment in female critics who engaged in bullying, noting that ‘we are holding ourselves back tremendously by cutting each other down.’

    After months of therapy for her family and personal reflection, Cabot has emerged with a renewed perspective on accountability, public shaming, and redemption. While acknowledging her professional misjudgment, she questions whether a single mistake should warrant global humiliation and threats of violence. As she contemplates returning to work, Cabot faces the enduring challenge of reputational repair in an era where digital footprints are permanent and public forgiveness is scarce.

  • Harry and Meghan embrace their children in Christmas message

    Harry and Meghan embrace their children in Christmas message

    The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have ushered in the holiday season with a heartfelt family photograph and significant announcements regarding their charitable initiatives. The intimate image, disseminated through their official Instagram channel, presents a rare glimpse into their private family life.

    The carefully composed photograph captures the couple with their children against a serene woodland backdrop. Prince Archie, aged six, embraces his father while Duchess Meghan gently holds hands with four-year-old Princess Lilibet on a rustic wooden bridge, creating a tableau of familial warmth and connection.

    Accompanying the visual narrative was the simple yet poignant message: ‘Happy Holidays! From our family to yours.’ This personal greeting was complemented by formal holiday communications from their office, extending season’s greetings on behalf of the Archewell organization.

    In a parallel development, the couple unveiled a strategic rebranding of their philanthropic vehicle. The Archewell Foundation has been formally restructured as Archewell Philanthropies, signaling an expanded scope and refined mission. According to the official announcement released Friday, this transformation enables the family to ‘expand upon their global philanthropic endeavours as a family.’

    The nearly two-minute commemorative video accompanying these announcements features the Sussex children participating in charitable activities, including baking cookies for Thanksgiving distribution through local community organizations. This visual documentation highlights the integration of their children into their humanitarian work since establishing the organization in 2020 following their transition from senior royal duties.

    This holiday revelation follows closely after other royal families released their seasonal greetings. The Prince and Princess of Wales distributed a portrait featuring their three children amidst daffodils, while King Charles III and Queen Camilla shared a photograph from their Italian visit earlier this month.

  • Magic Awaits: Step Into Wafi City’s Whimsical Wonderland

    Magic Awaits: Step Into Wafi City’s Whimsical Wonderland

    Dubai’s Wafi City has unveiled an extraordinary festive transformation, converting its premier shopping destination into a magical seasonal experience dubbed ‘Wafi’s Whimsical Wonderland’. From December 2025, both Wafi City Mall and the architecturally stunning Khan Murjan Souk have been reimagined as an immersive holiday paradise, offering families across the UAE an enchanting escape into the spirit of the season.

    The comprehensive festive installation features breathtaking decorative elements including elaborate light displays, whimsical thematic installations, and numerous photo opportunities that capture the essence of holiday magic. Visitors are greeted by costumed performers bringing seasonal characters to life while holiday melodies fill the air, creating a multisensory experience that delights all ages.

    Children can participate in hands-on creative workshops and craft stations where they produce personalized holiday keepsakes, embark on treasure hunts through the atmospheric corridors of Khan Murjan Souk, and explore interactive play zones designed to stimulate imagination. Adult visitors can enjoy seasonal culinary offerings, browse unique market stalls, and take advantage of exclusive festive promotions available through a special coupon booklet.

    The centerpiece remains the ticketed Santa Experience, set within an elaborately themed grotto where children can share their holiday wishes, receive specially commissioned Wafi City festive toys, and capture the moment with professional keepsake photography. Families participating in the Santa encounter also receive complimentary seasonal beverages from premium outlets including Tyne, Icons Coffee, and Elements.

    Adding to the excitement, Wafi City has introduced a major raffle draw with two grand prizes of AED 10,000 in gift vouchers each. Visitors purchasing the festive booklet are automatically entered into the December 31 drawing, with additional surprise giveaways and seasonal treats enhancing the celebratory atmosphere throughout the event duration.

  • Oscar contender ‘The Secret Agent’ capitalizes on the rise of Brazilian cinema

    Oscar contender ‘The Secret Agent’ capitalizes on the rise of Brazilian cinema

    SAO PAULO — Kleber Mendonça Filho’s politically charged thriller “The Secret Agent,” currently shortlisted for Oscar consideration, has emerged as a cinematic landmark that intertwines Brazil’s authoritarian past with its contemporary democratic struggles. The film follows an unassuming scientist and widower who becomes targeted by Brazil’s 1970s military regime not for revolutionary activities, but simply for maintaining his ethical principles against a business owner with regime connections.

    Star Wagner Moura, who received both Cannes and Golden Globe recognition for his performance, characterizes the protagonist’s peril as emblematic of authoritarian systems worldwide. “He faces danger merely for embodying his values,” Moura explained in an AP interview. “This demonstrates how dictatorship mechanisms operate universally.”

    The 2.5-hour drama expands in U.S. theaters following major Cannes Film Festival victories for both Mendonça Filho (Best Director) and Moura (Best Actor), alongside Golden Globe nominations for Best Drama, Best Non-English Language Film, and Best Actor. This recognition signals growing international appreciation for Brazilian cinema, coming shortly after another Brazilian production, “I’m Still Here,” secured this year’s Oscar for Best International Feature.

    Set against 1977 Recife’s Carnival celebrations, the film creates striking juxtapositions between personal turmoil and public festivity. Mendonça Filho masterfully blends political suspense with period urban legends, exploring themes extending beyond dictatorship into corruption, state violence, and institutional complicity. In one pivotal sequence, movie theater audiences emerge shaken from screenings of “Jaws” and “The Omen” while the nation lives under genuine terror.

    The film’s November 6 Brazilian premiere coincided with historic political developments as former President Jair Bolsonaro began serving a 27-year sentence for election interference, marking the first imprisonment of high-ranking military officers for attempted coup activities. Mendonça Filho notes this synchronization: “For the first time, we’re holding military officers accountable—and imprisoning a president who damaged the country.”

    Among the production’s most remarkable stories is that of Tânia Maria, a 78-year-old artisan who delivers a stunning performance despite having never acted before being discovered at age 72. Mendonça Filho wrote her character specifically to capture her “birdlike bearing, cigarette-shaped voice, and razor-sharp humor.” The seamstress-turned-actor has become a national sensation, aspiring to attend the Oscars in a self-made sparkling red dress.

    “The Secret Agent” represents part of Brazilian cinema’s decade-long reexamination of military dictatorship (1964-1985), with filmmakers increasingly confronting this unresolved national trauma. As Mendonça Filho asserts: “The military represents a trauma never properly examined. You cannot simply advise moving on—a crust forms over it, precisely what occurs with entire nations.”