January 8 turned out to be a busy day for South cinema, packed with developments, surprises and talking points. From social media trends and censor board controversies to early film releases, blockbuster teasers and steep ticket pricing, it was a hectic day for both fans and filmmakers. Here are the key South film updates you need to know from January 8.
Anirudh’s viral post lifts fans’ spirits
Following the official postponement of Jana Nayagan, Anirudh Ravichander shared a clip from the film’s Malaysia audio launch on Instagram, tagged with #RavananMavanDa. The post quickly went viral, offering a much-needed morale boost to fans during the wait. The clip highlighted the film’s grand scale and Vijay’s much-talked-about role, with many fans seeing it as a reassuring signal amid the delay. On social media, several users felt the composer’s gesture deserved appreciation for lifting spirits at a crucial time.
Parasakthi faces 23 CBFC cuts
Sivakarthikeyan’s period film Parasakthi, slated for a Pongal release on January 10, finds itself in uncertainty as it awaits censor clearance. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has reportedly suggested 23 cuts, primarily targeting scenes and dialogues depicting the anti-Hindi protests of the 1960s in Madras. Director Sudha Kongara has written to the Revising Committee in Mumbai, stating that the proposed cuts would compromise the film’s period authenticity and narrative integrity. With the makers yet to issue an official statement and less than 48 hours to go for release, fans remain anxious amid rising anticipation.
Pennu Case advances release date
Nikhila Vimal’s much-anticipated film Pennu Case has advanced its release date, much to the excitement of fans. Initially scheduled for a later release, the film will now hit theatres earlier than planned. Directed by Febin Sidharth, Pennu Case promises an emotionally driven narrative centred on women. The team is gearing up to present the film to audiences sooner than expected, with fans eagerly awaiting the first look and music launch.
Yash’s Toxic teaser drops with explosive entry
The long-awaited teaser of Kannada superstar Yash’s Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups has been unveiled, marking his return to the big screen after KGF: Chapter 2. Yash makes a ferocious entry as the ruthless gangster Raya, wielding a Thompson gun. The 2.5-minute teaser is packed with explosions, chaos and bloodshed, culminating in the powerful punchline, “Daddy’s home.” Released on Yash’s 40th birthday, the teaser also introduces the female cast, including Kiara Advani, Nayanthara and Huma Qureshi. Fans are now counting down to March 19 for the full-fledged gangster action drama.
Andhra Pradesh approves hiked premiere tickets for The Raja Saab
The Andhra Pradesh government has approved a ticket price hike for Prabhas’ upcoming film The Raja Saab, with paid premiere show tickets capped at Rs 1,000. Regular single-screen tickets will reportedly increase from Rs 78 to Rs 297, while multiplex tickets may go up to Rs 377 for the first 10 days. Up to five shows per day have been sanctioned to meet the anticipated demand. The horror-comedy Zombivili 24×7, releasing on January 9, stars Prabhas, Nidhhi Agerwal and Malavika Mohanan, with a special appearance by Sanjay Dutt. Packed houses are expected for both premiere and regular shows.
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