International
Favreau not to direct Iron Man 3
MUMBAI: John Favreau, who directed the first two films of Iron Man will not direct the third instalment of the Marvel superhero series, it is understood.
Before getting into Iron Man 2, Favreau negotiated for an astronomical rise and got $10 million for the assignment along with a share of profits, while in the summer 2011 sci-fi epic Cowboys And Aliens, his price went up. Marvel, known for keeping its costs as low as possible, wasn‘t likely to pay him more.
He also recently signed on to develop and direct Magic Kingdom, a big Disney film based on its theme parks. Said Favreau, “It‘s true, I‘m directing Magic Kingdom and not Iron Man 3. I‘ve had a great run with Marvel and wish them the best.”
The first two Iron Man films grossed more than $1.2 billion at the worldwide box-office and turned Robert Downey Jr. into an action hero. The third film is set to release in 2013.
International
Russia-India cinematic spectacle Persimmon of My Love set for grand Moscow debut
Hindi cinema style musical revives Indo-Soviet cinema ties for today
MUMBAI: A new chapter in cross-border storytelling is set to unfold as Persimmon of My Love gears up for its premiere in Moscow on 1 April 2026, marking the first large-scale cinematic collaboration between Russia and India in decades.
Positioned as a modern nod to the cultural exchange that once brought Indian classics to Soviet audiences, the film blends Hindi cinema flair with Russian storytelling, aiming to rekindle a long-standing cinematic friendship.
Directed by Marius Weisberg, the musical comedy follows two brothers navigating a lively world of music, family and romance. The lead roles are played by Demis Karibidis and Mikhail Galustyan, with Karibidis also contributing as a screenwriter.
Shot entirely in India, the production leans heavily into Hindi cinema style spectacle. Filming took place across Mumbai studios and the cities of Udaipur and Jodhpur, whose architecture was used to create the fictional setting of Khurmada. A crew of over 350 worked on the project, with large-scale sequences featuring up to 1,000 extras.
The film also brings Indian creative talent into the mix. Dance sequences are choreographed by Jay Kumar, while music by Zurab Matua features songs in both Hindi and Russian, adding to its cross-cultural appeal.
Backed by TNT channel, MyWayStudio and the Russian Cinema Fund, the project reflects a broader push to strengthen cultural ties between the two countries.
With its mix of colour, comedy and cross-border collaboration, Persimmon of My Love is not just a film release but a reminder that cinema, much like music, travels well across borders.
