Sizzling Samachar: No sequel for ‘Upgrade’: Leigh Whannell says, "We’re Good!"; ‘American Primeval’: Prequel talks heat up, but challenges loom

Welcome to another episode of your daily entertainment news, I'm your host Nikhil Kumar. News from Hollywood next.

No sequel for ‘Upgrade’: Leigh Whannell says, "We’re Good!"

The cult sci-fi hit Upgrade won't see a sequel or TV spin-off anytime soon, confirms director Leigh Whannell. The 2018 cyberpunk thriller, starring Logan Marshall-Green, follows a technophobe paralyzed in a tragic accident who regains control of his body with a futuristic chip implant. Praised for its gripping story and tech-infused action, Upgrade scored 88% on Rotten Tomatoes and grossed $16 million against a $5 million budget. Despite its ambiguous ending and fans clamoring for more, Whannell prefers leaving it as a "prophetic" standalone gem. Stream Upgrade on Netflix to see why it still sparks sci-fi conversations!

‘American Primeval’: Prequel talks heat up, but challenges loom

Netflix's gritty limited series American Primeval, starring Taylor Kitsch and Betty Gilpin, dives into the brutal pre-industrial American landscape, but its finale left fans wanting more. With Isaac dead and follow-ups unlikely due to cast aging issues (hello, puberty!), creator Peter Berg hints at a potential prequel. While critics gave the show a 66% Rotten Tomatoes score, audiences loved its raw portrayal of early settlers, Mormons, and survival in a dangerous world, earning an 88% audience score. For now, explore this six-episode saga of blood, betrayal, and survival streaming on Netflix—and cross your fingers for that prequel!

‘One Chicago’ crossover promises emotional drama and unique team-ups

The upcoming One Chicago crossover unites Chicago P.D., Chicago Fire, and Chicago Med in a three-hour adrenaline-packed ride. A gas explosion traps dozens underground, including two beloved characters, setting the stage for high-stakes drama. Patrick John Flueger (Ruzek) teases heartfelt moments and rare character pairings, including his first deep collaboration with Miranda Rae Mayo (Stella Kidd), describing it as "an absolute blast." Unlike past crossovers, this event leans into relationships over flashy action. Catch Chicago P.D. every Wednesday on NBC or stream past episodes on Peacock. Prepare for an emotional journey through Chicago’s frontline chaos!

Cameron Diaz open to ‘The Mask’ reboot, but only with Jim Carrey

Cameron Diaz, who stole hearts as Tina Carlyle in The Mask, revealed she’d return for a reboot only if Jim Carrey reprises his iconic role as Stanley Ipkiss. “I’ve been riding those coattails from day one,” Diaz joked while promoting her Netflix film Back in Action. Carrey also expressed interest in revisiting the zany world of The Mask, provided there’s a compelling script. While 2005’s Son of the Mask flopped, the original remains a fan favourite, with creator Mike Richardson teasing attempts to revive the franchise. For now, relive the magic of the 1994 classic on Max!

Andy Cohen’s 5-year campaign to cast Ayda Field Williams on RHOBH

Andy Cohen isn’t giving up on adding a UK flavour to The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. Robbie Williams’ wife, Ayda Field Williams, has turned down Cohen’s offer five years in a row, despite his enthusiasm. While promoting Robbie’s biopic Better Man, Ayda joked that Robbie would be the show’s most involved house husband. Known for her roles in Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip and Austenland, Ayda’s presence could bring Robbie, a UK music icon, closer to American fame. Better Man, featuring Robbie as a CGI monkey, premieres December 25, 2024. Could RHOBH finally seal the deal? Stay tuned!

Christopher Columbus backs HBO Max’s ‘Harry Potter’ reboot

Hogwarts nostalgia is brewing again, and Harry Potter director Christopher Columbus is here for it. Reflecting on the upcoming HBO Max reboot, Columbus praised the show’s long-form format, saying it’s a golden chance to include moments the films missed—like Harry and Ginny’s underwhelming romance and deeper dives into the Marauders and Horcruxes. The reboot, set to debut in 2026, promises fresh faces, with whispers of Cillian Murphy as Voldemort and Paapa Essiedu as Snape. Meanwhile, you can relive the original saga, streaming now on Max, while Columbus teases that this new era might just enchant Potterheads anew.

Star Wars fans, rejoice! ‘The Acolyte’ lives on in a thrilling spin-off novel

Though The Acolyte met an untimely end after just one season, its legacy thrives in The Acolyte: Wayseeker by Justina Ireland. This gripping novel dives deep into the High Republic era, following Jedi Master Vernestra Rwoh as she defies the Jedi Council to chart her own path. Tasked with an urgent mission, she reluctantly teams up with Jedi Knight Indara, and the two navigate Coruscant's murky underworld, tangled politics, and a sinister arms plot threatening the Republic. With compelling characters and intense intrigue, this novel keeps the Star Wars magic alive. Watch The Acolyte on Disney+ and mark May 6 for the book!

Racing Legacy: Sky brings Damon ‘Hill's’ doc to U.K. screens

Sky has snagged the exclusive rights to Hill, a gripping documentary about British F1 legend Damon Hill, premiering this year in the U.K. and Ireland. Directed by BAFTA-nominated Alex Holmes, the film dives into Hill’s rise to Formula 1 stardom, overcoming personal tragedy and stepping out of his father Graham Hill’s shadow to claim the 1996 World Championship. Produced by Sylver Entertainment and Independent Entertainment, the film highlights the intense world of motorsport and its emotional toll. Sky promises fans an exhilarating experience, making Hill a must-watch for F1 enthusiasts and anyone who loves an underdog story.

Well that's all for this episode, until the next one it's your host Nikhil Kumar signing out.

Aaj kya dekhoge OTTplay se poocho

- Written by Apurva Dutta

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