International
Watch these five Denis Villeneuve films ahead of ‘Dune: Part Two’ release
Mumbai: Denis Villeneuve is a filmmaker whose name commands respect in the world of modern cinema. Known for his distinct visual style, masterful storytelling, and knack for creating immersive cinematic extravaganzas, Villeneuve has intrigued audiences with his diverse range of films. With anticipation building for ‘Dune: Part Two,’ starring Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Austin Butler, among others and scheduled to release on 1 March 2024, at your nearest PVR INOX cinemas, let’s take a deep dive into his filmography and explore five essential movies that showcase his talent and vision. Dune fans can also explore the second part of their favourite franchise on IMAX for an immersive experience.
Enemy (2013)
Denis Villeneuve’s Enemy is a cinematic puzzle that will leave you scratching your head in the best possible way. Set in a dreary, dystopian Toronto, the film follows the story of a meek college professor who discovers he has a doppelgänger, setting off a series of increasingly surreal events. Jake Gyllenhaal delivers a mesmerizing dual performance, and Villeneuve’s masterful direction keeps you on the edge of your seat as you try to unravel the film’s enigmatic mysteries. With its haunting atmosphere and thought-provoking themes, Enemy is essential viewing for anyone who appreciates cerebral cinema.
Prisoners (2013)
Prisoners is not your typical kidnapping thriller. Set in a small Pennsylvania town, the film follows the frantic search for two young girls who mysteriously vanish on Thanksgiving Day. Hugh Jackman delivers a powerhouse performance as a desperate father pushed to the brink, while Jake Gyllenhaal shines once again as the determined detective leading the investigation. What sets Prisoners apart is its exploration of morality, justice, and the lengths we’re willing to go to protect our loved ones. Villeneuve expertly weaves together suspenseful twists and turns with profound emotional depth, making Prisoners a riveting and unforgettable cinematic experience.
Sicario (2015)
Set against the backdrop of the escalating drug war along the US-Mexico border, Sicario follows FBI agent Kate Macer as she is recruited to join a covert task force targeting a powerful drug cartel. Emily Blunt delivers a compelling performance as the morally conflicted protagonist, while Josh Brolin and Benicio Del Toro shine as the enigmatic government operatives leading the charge. With its gritty realism and intense cinematography, Sicario is a visceral thrill ride that will leave you breathless.
Arrival (2016)
Arrival is not your typical alien invasion movie. Based on Ted Chiang’s short story “Story of Your Life,” the film explores complex themes of language, time, and the nature of human consciousness. Amy Adams delivers a career-best performance as linguist Louise Banks, who is recruited by the military to communicate with extraterrestrial visitors whose ships have descended upon Earth. Denis Villeneuve’s direction is nothing short of masterful, imbuing the film with a sense of wonder and awe that is as thought-provoking as it is visually stunning. With its mind-bending twists and emotional resonance, Arrival is a transcendent cinematic experience that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
Blade Runner 2049 (2017)
Blade Runner 2049 is a visual masterpiece that pushes the boundaries of cinematic storytelling. Set thirty years after the events of Ridley Scott’s original Blade Runner, the film follows K, a replicant “blade runner” tasked with hunting down rogue androids. Ryan Gosling delivers a nuanced performance as the brooding protagonist, while Harrison Ford reprises his iconic role as Rick Deckard. Denis Villeneuve’s direction is nothing short of breathtaking, as he brings to life a dystopian world that is both hauntingly familiar and eerily surreal. With its jaw-dropping visuals and thought-provoking themes, Blade Runner 2049 is a cinematic experience unlike any other.
And here’s the film that inspired this list:
Dune: Part Two (2024)
The sequel to Dune (2021), Dune: Part Two, is the second installment of a two-part adaptation of the 1965 novel “Dune” by Frank Herbert. It follows Paul Atreides as he unites with the Fremen people of the desert planet Arrakis to wage war against House Harkonnen. Timothée Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson, Josh Brolin, Stellan Skarsgård, Dave Bautista, Zendaya, Charlotte Rampling, and Javier Bardem reprise their roles from the first film, with Austin Butler, Florence Pugh, Christopher Walken, and Léa Seydoux joining the ensemble cast.
If you’re mesmerized by the worlds created by Denis Villeneuve through his movies, make sure to watch ‘Dune: Part Two’ this Friday at your nearest PVR INOX cinemas.
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.
