Sizzling Samachar: Hathi Ram returns: ‘Paatal Lok’ season 2 premieres Jan 17; Christopher Nolan tackles Homer: 'The Odyssey' hits IMAX in 2026

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Hathi Ram returns: ‘Paatal Lok’ season 2 premieres Jan 17

The gates of Paatal Lok reopen on January 17, and Hathi Ram Chaudhary is stepping into an even darker abyss! Directed by Avinash Arun Dhaware, this season reunites Jaideep Ahlawat, Ishwak Singh, and Gul Panag while roping in Tillotama Shome and Nagesh Kukunoor for extra intrigue. Known for its hard-hitting narrative and razor-sharp commentary on societal flaws, the crime drama dives deeper into corruption, justice, and humanity's murky depths. A Clean Slate Filmz and Eunoia Films LLP production, this global Prime Video release promises uncharted territories, sinister twists, and a crime drama like no other. Buckle up; it’s about to get wild!

Christopher Nolan tackles Homer: 'The Odyssey' hits IMAX in 2026

Christopher Nolan is inviting us on an epic journey like no other—straight into the heart of Greek mythology! Swapping atomic bombs for Greek gods, the visionary director is bringing Homer’s The Odyssey to life, chronicling Odysseus' perilous journey home post-Trojan War. Universal has slated this mythic masterpiece for an IMAX release on July 17, 2026. Featuring a jaw-dropping cast—Matt Damon, Zendaya, Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, Anne Hathaway, and Charlize Theron—Nolan promises a visual spectacle powered by cutting-edge IMAX technology. With his knack for reimagining genres, this larger-than-life adventure will be a cinematic odyssey to remember!

Robert De Niro takes on Cybercrime in Netflix's ‘Zero Day’

Robert De Niro dives into his first-ever regular TV role in Netflix's Zero Day, set to premiere February 20. The thriller stars De Niro as George Mullen, a former U.S. president tasked with uncovering the masterminds behind a catastrophic cyberattack under the watchful eye of Angela Bassett’s President Mitchell. With conspiracy theories brewing and personal stakes at an all-time high, Mullen must grapple with power-hungry forces while confronting his own skeletons. Created by Eric Newman (Narcos), Noah Oppenheim, and Michael S. Schmidt, the six-episode limited series boasts a star-studded cast, including Lizzy Caplan and Jesse Plemons.

Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman reunite for musical comedy ‘Boy Band’

Ryan Reynolds is back at it with longtime collaborator Shawn Levy and Wolverine extraordinaire Hugh Jackman for Boy Band, a heartfelt comedy about aging pop stars reclaiming their rhythm. The plot, penned by Me and Earl and the Dying Girl writer Jesse Andrews, focuses on two former bandmates attempting a comeback in their 40s and 50s while tackling past fame’s fallout. Reynolds promises a “modest budget” and a script infused with joy over cynicism. While a release date remains under wraps, fans can already feel the nostalgic harmony brewing. Meanwhile, catch Reynolds showcasing his musical chops in Spirited on AppleTV.

Gerard Butler returns for diamond heist thrills in ‘Den of Thieves 2: Pantera’

Gerard Butler’s Big Nick is crossing borders and moral lines in Den of Thieves 2: Pantera! Set to hit theaters on January 10, 2025, this action-packed sequel follows Nick as he tracks Donnie (O’Shea Jackson Jr.) across Europe. Donnie’s tangled with the Panther mafia, planning a daring heist on the world’s largest diamond exchange. But hold up—this time, Nick and Donnie might actually join forces! With Christian Gudegast back as writer-director, expect gritty realism, high-stakes drama, and Butler’s signature intensity. Fans of cops-and-robbers thrillers, buckle up—Big Nick’s globe-trotting chase promises to be a heist to remember!

‘One Piece’ anime returns April 2025, but Patience Is Key

Set your compasses, Straw Hats! The beloved One Piece anime is returning on April 6, 2025, with fresh episodes resuming the Egghead arc. But there’s a twist: it’ll air in a new late-night slot (11:15 PM in Japan) as Fuji TV makes room for To Be Hero X. The Egghead arc, a treasure trove of lore and Dr. Vegapunk drama, promises futuristic thrills when the series picks up. Meanwhile, fans can feast on a remastered Fish-man Island saga with upgraded visuals. And don’t forget the epic live-action series—perfect for tide-rolling through the wait. Mark your calendars!

‘Poker Face’ season 2 wraps filming: Rian Johnson’s whodunit magic continues

The case is heating up! Rian Johnson’s murder-mystery series Poker Face—starring Natasha Lyonne—is one step closer to returning as Season 2 wraps filming. Director Tony Tost shared the news on X. While the release date remains a mystery, fans can anticipate another star-studded season with guest appearances by Awkwafina, Giancarlo Esposito, Kumail Nanjiani, and more. Season 1 wowed with its stylish “case-of-the-week” format, and Lyonne teased that Season 2 is equally thrilling. Streaming soon on Jio Cinema, this is one mystery you’ll want to solve! Stay tuned for updates!

• Written by Apurva Dutta

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