‘The best song to play at a party is the one that gets people to leave’: Sananda Maitreya’s honest playlist

Exciting news for Beatles fans! Oscar-winning director Sam Mendes is set to create not one, but four theatrical biopics about the legendary band. Each member will be portrayed by a different actor, and the project promises to delve into the lives of key figures surrounding the Beatles. This ambitious undertaking highlights the enduring legacy of the band and offers a fresh perspective on their story, making it a must-watch for music lovers and film enthusiasts alike.

The Tokyo International Film Festival's market arm, TIFFCOM, is experiencing remarkable growth, with CEO Shiina Yasushi highlighting a shift towards becoming a co-production and financing hub. This transformation is significant as it reflects the increasing international interest in Japanese cinema and the potential for collaborative projects. With 322 exhibiting companies expected in 2025, up from 283, TIFFCOM is positioning itself as a key player in the global film industry, fostering partnerships and innovation.

Japan is set to shine at the 2026 Cannes market as the Country of Honor, a prestigious title that highlights its vibrant film, animation, and content industries. This recognition not only elevates Japan's cultural presence on a global stage but also promises an exciting showcase that will kick off the market's festivities. It's a significant opportunity for Japanese creators to connect with international audiences and industry leaders, fostering collaboration and innovation in the arts.

Japan has been named the Country of Honour for the 2026 Cannes Marché du Film, a prestigious recognition announced by Executive Director Guillaume Esmiol at the Tokyo International Film Festival. This honor highlights Japan's rich cinematic heritage and its contributions to global cinema, making it a significant moment for the country's film industry and culture. The event will provide a platform for Japanese filmmakers to showcase their work and foster international collaborations.

Prime Video has just released a teaser trailer for 'Paul McCartney: Man on the Run,' directed by the talented Morgan Neville. This documentary takes a fresh look at McCartney's life after The Beatles, promising to unravel the intriguing puzzle of his journey. It's exciting for fans and film lovers alike, as Neville's previous works have received critical acclaim, making this a highly anticipated release.

Sananda Maitreya, formerly known as Terence Trent D'Arby, made a stunning return to the stage after 23 years at the O2 Academy in Liverpool. The 63-year-old showcased his incredible vocal talent and genre versatility, captivating the audience with a performance that reminded everyone of his status as a pop icon from the late 1980s. This comeback is significant not just for fans but also for the music industry, as it highlights the enduring power of artistry and the ability to reinvent oneself.

Exciting news for Beatles fans! Oscar-winning director Sam Mendes is set to create not one, but four theatrical biopics about the legendary band. Each member will be portrayed by a different actor, and the project promises to delve into the lives of key figures surrounding the Beatles. This ambitious undertaking highlights the enduring legacy of the band and offers a fresh perspective on their story, making it a must-watch for music lovers and film enthusiasts alike.

Exciting news for movie fans! Lionsgate has announced that the film 'Power Ballad,' directed by John Carney and starring Paul Rudd and Nick Jonas, is set to hit theaters on June 5, 2026. The story revolves around Rick, a wedding singer who's lost his spark, and Danny, a boy-band star who's fading from the limelight. Their unexpected friendship blossoms through music, promising a heartwarming tale that resonates with anyone who's ever chased their dreams. This film not only showcases the talents of its stars but also highlights the enduring power of music in connecting people.

The upcoming HBO series 'Lanterns' is generating excitement as showrunner Chris Mundy describes it as a 'buddy cop show' set in the DC Universe. With Aaron Pierre taking on the role of John Stewart, he expresses a deep sense of responsibility for portraying this iconic character. This series, developed under the leadership of James Gunn and Peter Safran, promises to bring a fresh take on superhero storytelling, blending action with camaraderie, which could resonate well with fans and attract new viewers.

The co-creator of 'Only Murders in the Building' has shared exciting insights about the Season 5 finale and what fans can expect in Season 6, including a new victim and a shift to London. This news is significant as it not only teases thrilling developments in the storyline but also highlights the show's evolution and its ability to keep audiences engaged with fresh narratives.

The Tokyo International Film Festival's market arm, TIFFCOM, is experiencing remarkable growth, with CEO Shiina Yasushi highlighting a shift towards becoming a co-production and financing hub. This transformation is significant as it reflects the increasing international interest in Japanese cinema and the potential for collaborative projects. With 322 exhibiting companies expected in 2025, up from 283, TIFFCOM is positioning itself as a key player in the global film industry, fostering partnerships and innovation.

Fifth Season has laid off around 10% of its workforce, affecting fewer than 20 employees out of 160. While this may seem concerning, sources indicate that the company is still in good financial shape, and the layoffs are primarily a matter of staff realignment rather than financial distress. This move reflects the company's strategy to optimize its operations and ensure long-term stability.