Matt Reeves, a cinematic genius known for his diverse range of films like Planet of the Apes Caesar Trilogy, left the world in awe with his interpretation of Gotham in 2022’s The Batman. The gritty, noir aesthetic and cinematography captured the hearts of audiences globally. Now, the anticipation is high as Reeves revisits his version of the iconic city with HBO’s limited series The Penguin.

The show centers on Colin Ferell’s Oswald Kobe, aka Penguin, and his ascent to power in the criminal underworld of Gotham. Ferell’s transformation into the vicious yet cunning villain in The Batman was so profound that it earned him a plethora of praise and accolades, leading to his own spin-off series.  

Speaking to Collider, the director praised Ferell’s exceptional portrayal of this complicated character and credited him with the show’s success. When asked whether it was tough to talk about a show that had had a great reception, “Yeah, it’s terrible,” Reeves joked. But later, he clarified, saying it was “exciting.”

“You’re always worried about how something is going to be received, but so far, the reception has been excellent,” he said. However, the director had a gut feeling about the show’s fate for one and only reason — Colin Ferell. “Colin is a force of nature. He’s so extraordinary and so special,” he added, exuding confidence in the show’s success. 

Kiran Rao has already proved her mettle as an ace filmmaker with the directorial debut movie Dhobi Ghat, back in 2010. Years later, she did it again with her 2024 comedy-drama, Laapataa Ladies. The movie became an instant hit after it was premiered on OTT. Looking at the love and admiration that her second project as a filmmaker is receiving, Rao thinks it should be considered as India’s official nomination for the Oscars.

During an interview with PTI, Kiran Rao stated that she hopes Laapataa Ladies is selected as the Indian movie that gets entry at the 2025 Academy Awards. She stated, “My dream would be fulfilled if it was if it would go (to Oscars).” However, the filmmaker also added that it’s a process, and she is hoping her movie will be considered. Having said that, she added that she is sure the best film will go, whoever the Film Federation of India (FFI) will choose in the scheme of things.

Produced by Aamir Khan, Kiran Rao, and Jyoti Deshpande, the film stars Nitanshi Goel, Sparsh Shrivastava, Pratibha Ranta, Abhay Dubey, Chhaya Kadam and Ravi Kishan. Soon after gaining popularity among cinema buffs, the movie was screened at the Supreme Court by its Communication Division on August 9. Several Supreme Court judges, their spouses, and registry members were able to enjoy the special screening of the entertainer.

While chatting exclusively with Pinkvilla, Pratibha, who plays the role of Jaya in the movie expressed her delight in being part of such a celebrated film. She said, “I am so elated. I cannot put this feeling in words; I am overwhelmed and nervous at the same time to learn that such renowned dignitaries and big decision-makers will watch my film. This feels bigger than receiving an award. For any actor, this kind of appreciation means a great deal. I feel blessed to have been a part of Laapataa Ladies.”

Last year, it was also screened at the 48th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September 2023. For those unknown, the movie revolves around two brides who get exchanged while going to their husbands’ homes. In their efforts to return to their original addresses, they learn several new things about themselves and society at large.