BLOCKBUSTER BEHEMOTHS
The upcoming film starring actor NTR Jr and directed by Prashanth Neel, currently identified as “NTRNEEL,” has secured a global release date of Jan. 9, 2026. This project marks the first collaboration between the two.
On Friday, the production team held a traditional prayer ceremony, attended by NTR Jr, Neel, their families, and representatives from the producing entities NTR Arts and Mythri Movie Makers, to kick off production.
The filmmakers posted on X: “This time, the earth will tremble under his reign! #NTRNEEL will step onto the soil on January 9th, 2026.”
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Neel previously directed blockbuster films “K.G.F: Chapter 1” (2018) and “K.G.F: Chapter 2” (2022), headlined by Yash, and “Salaar,” starring Prabhas and Prithviraj Sukumaran. NTR Jr starred alongside Ram Charan in S.S. Rajamouli‘s Oscar and Golden Globe-winning global smash hit “RRR” (2022). “Devara,” which reunites NTR Jr with his “Janatha Garage” director Koratala Siva, is due later this year.
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CHONGQING CINEMA
M³ Cube Cineplex and Timewaying have installed a 20m 4K HeyLED PLF screen in Chongqing, China, marking the fourth global deployment of this technology. The installation features an astronaut-themed design. The HeyLED screens offer high contrast, brightness and HDR capabilities. Their design eliminates the need for projector rooms, potentially increasing seating capacity and revenue. The screens can also serve as backdrops for various events, expanding the theater’s functionality.
Timewaying offers four DCI-certified screen sizes with 2K and 4K resolution options. The company has completed over 30 installations worldwide, including in the U.S., Middle East and Europe.
Shan, general manager of M³ Cube Cineplex, said: “The 20m 4K HeyLED PLF is a game-changer for us. It aligns with our visionary design and opens new revenue streams through an unparalleled viewer experience.”
Andrew Chan, CEO of Timewaying, added: “This technology boosts HFR and HDR content playback, creating new storytelling opportunities and deeper immersion for audiences.”
Timewaying, founded in 2011, specializes in cinema equipment manufacturing and R&D. Their HeyLED sub-brand focuses on LED product lines for the cinema industry.
PUNJABI POWERHOUSE
Punjabi music artist AP Dhillon has unveiled his new single “Old Money,” marking his first release under a partnership with Republic Records and Universal Music Canada. The track, which blends Punjabi rhythms with cinematic elements, is accompanied by a music video featuring Bollywood stars Salman Khan and Sanjay Dutt.
Dhillon co-directed the video with Shauna Gautam, making his debut behind the camera. The visual narrative pays homage to 1990s Indian action films, while concluding with a “say no to violence” message. The song’s production credits include Dhillon’s collaborator Shinda Kahlon, along with AzizTheShake, Gray Hawken, Luca Mauti, Brendan Thomas and Madeleine Kay.
Dhillon described “Old Money” as the start of his “next era,” citing influences from action movies he watched growing up.
