Funky, directed by Anudeep KV and starring Vishwak Sen, is set to release on February 13, Valentine's Day. The film's trailer has received a positive response, showcasing Vishwak Sen as an aspiring filmmaker and Kayadu Lohar as a producer. The chemistry between the leads and the entertainment factor seem to have worked well, promising a fun-filled entertainer.

The film has locked a crisp runtime of 130 minutes, with a theatrical breakeven point set around â‚¹15 crore. To achieve this, Funky needs to collect around â‚¹30 crore gross worldwide, which looks achievable with positive word of mouth and no major competing releases. The film's music, composed by Bheems Ceciroleo, is expected to add to its appeal.

Funky is a romantic comedy that explores the journey of an aspiring filmmaker, played by Vishwak Sen, and his producer, Kayadu Lohar. The film's storyline is expected to resonate with audiences, given its light hearted and entertaining tone. The film's release on Valentine's Day could work in its favor, given its romantic comedy elements.

Produced by Naga Vamsi and Sai Soujai Soujanya under Sithara Entertainments and Fortune Four Cinemas, Funky is a much anticipated release for both Anudeep KV and Vishwak Sen, who are looking for a solid success after their previous outings failed to make an impact. The film's success could pave the way for more romantic comedies in Telugu cinema.

Movie News

Funky Break Even Target

Funky Locks Crispy Runtime And Reasonable Business

Vishwambhara has become Chiranjeevi\'s costliest film, with a budget exceeding 250 crore, making it a highly anticipated release. The film\'s initial budget was 150 - 200 crore, with Chiranjeevi\'s remuneration alone being around 75 crore. The budget increase is attributed to delays and extensive CG reworks, highlighting the film\'s grand scale and stunning visuals.&nbsp;\r\nThe film\'s release date is yet to be officially announced, but industry buzz suggests a July release. To recover the massive investment, Vishwambhara needs to generate significant business and lock huge distribution deals. The upcoming promotional content is expected to showcase the film\'s grand scale, impressing audiences.\r\nVishwambhara is a socio fantasy drama film directed by Vassishta, starring Chiranjeevi, Trisha Krishnan, and Ashika Ranganath. The music is composed by MM Keeravani, and the cinematography is handled by Chota K Naidu. The film\'s VFX budget is reportedly â‚¹75 crore, with international artists brought in to elevate post production quality.&nbsp;\r\nWith such high expectations, Vishwambhara will have to perform bigger than Chiranjeevi\'s latest blockbuster, Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu, to recover the massive investment. The film\'s success is crucial to justify its record breaking budget.

Costliest Film Ever For Chiranjeevi 

Vishwambhara Marks Highest Budgeted Film For Megastar Chiranjeevi

Prabhas\' upcoming film Fauzi, directed by Hanu Raghavapudi, is facing a potential delay due to scheduling conflicts. The producers, Mythri Movie Makers, are keen on releasing the film this Dasara, as missing this window could lead to a one year delay. Prabhas has allotted his dates and is joining the shoot this week, indicating a continuous shooting schedule.\r\nThe reason for the urgency is the upcoming release of Prabhas\' another film, Spirit, scheduled for March 2027. Releasing Fauzi after Spirit could affect its visibility and impact, making it crucial to release Fauzi before Spirit. The promotions for Spirit are expected to start by the end of this year, which could further impact Fauzi\'s release.\r\nReleasing Fauzi in early 2026 is challenging due to scheduling conflicts, and the required gap between releases could push Fauzi to late 2027, increasing costs. Mythri Movie Makers strongly wants Fauzi to release this Dasara, as missing this slot risks a one year delay. The film\'s genre and storyline, a romantic period film, are expected to appeal to a wide audience.\r\nFrom a strategic point of view, Fauzi should release before Spirit, as releasing after Spirit would raise expectations significantly. The producers are now faced with a tricky situation, and a decision on the release date needs to be made soon to avoid any further delays. With Prabhas\' fan base eagerly awaiting his next project, the release of Fauzi is highly anticipated.

Fauzi Racing Against Time

Prabhas Fauzi Has Dasara As Deadline

The Nizam distribution circle in Telangana is bracing for a significant shift with several new distribution offices opening up, intensifying competition for acquiring distribution rights. Asian, SVC, and Mythri have been the dominant players, but Annapurna Studios\' recent entry, with Vishwak Sen\'s \"Funky\", is set to shake things up.&nbsp;\r\nDheeraj Mogilineni, producer of \"The Girlfriend\", is also launching his own distribution office, starting with \"Couple Friendly\". Jio Studios is preparing to enter the Nizam market with \"Dhurandhar 2\", while PVR Inox Pictures is already making waves with independent film distribution. This influx of new players is expected to challenge the existing stronghold of SVC and Asian, making the Nizam distribution space increasingly competitive.\r\nThe Nizam distribution war is heating up, with big films lined up for release this year and next. The entry of Annapurna Studios, Jio Studios, and PVR Inox Pictures is expected to bring more transparency to the distribution process, with a focus on high profile releases.\r\nAs the Nizam distribution circle becomes more competitive, industry experts predict a more balanced market, with opportunities for new players to make their mark. SVC to hold its strong ground has acquired Yash\'s Toxic for record price in both Telugu states. With several high profile releases on the horizon, the Nizam distribution space is poised for an exciting phase.&nbsp;

Nizam Distribution War Heating Up

Nizam Distribution Circle Sees Influx of New Players

Dhurandhar 2 is set to hit theaters on March 19, generating significant buzz, especially in Telugu states. The film has garnered encouraging pre release interest, reflecting its potential. Jio Studios has opted for independent distribution in the Telugu market, showcasing confidence in the sequel's success and aiming to tap into the Telugu speaking audience.
The first part of Dhurandhar raked in â‚¹1303 crore, with â‚¹837 crore from India and â‚¹299 crore from overseas. This impressive performance has raised expectations for the sequel. In a significant development, Jio Studios has opted to release the film independently in the Telugu market.&nbsp;
This strategic move highlights the studio&rsquo;s confidence in the sequel&rsquo;s potential and its intent to tap deeper into the Telugu-speaking audience. By taking control of distribution, Jio Studios aims to strengthen its presence in South India. Dhurandhar 2 will release in Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Kanada, alongside the Hindi version.&nbsp;
Jio Studios has sold the digital rights to Jio Hotstar for â‚¹150 crore, indicating the film's commercial potential. With Dhurandhar 2's release imminent, industry watchers are eager to see its box office performance. The film's success could pave the way for more independent releases in the Telugu market, changing the distribution landscape.

Crazy Development In Dhurandhar2

Jio Studios Opts For Own Release For Dhurandhar 2 In Telugu

Telugu film enthusiasts had a treat during Sankranthi 2026, with multiple releases catering to diverse audiences. The festival season saw big star films and small budget entertainers alike, offering plenty of choices at the box office. Now, as February arrives, these Sankranthi releases are making their way to OTT platforms.&nbsp;
The Sankranthi 2026 releases include Prabhas' horror fantasy comedy The Raja Saab, Chiranjeevi's entertainer Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu, Ravi Teja's Bhartha Mahasayulaku Wignyapthi, Naveen Polishetty's Anaganaga Oka Raju, and Sharwanand's Nari Nari Naduma Murari. Most of these films are set for their digital premieres in February, with some already streaming on various platforms.
Here's the list of Sankranthi 2026 films and their OTT release details:
Nari Nari Naduma Murari - Streaming on Prime Video
Vaa Vaathiyaar - Streaming on Prime Video
The Raja Saab - Streaming on Hotstar
Parasakthi - Streaming on Zee5
Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu - Streaming from 11 February on Zee5
Anaganaga Oka Raju - Streaming from 11 February on Netflix
Bhartha Mahasayulaku Wignyapthi - Likely to stream from 13 February on Zee5
The digital premieres of these films are expected to generate significant buzz, given their success at the box office. Not only Telugu, Tamil Pongal releases Karthi's Vaa Vaathiyaar and Sivakarthikeyan's Parasakthi are also now streaming in Telugu.&nbsp;

Sankranthi Festival Movies On OTT

Sankranthi 2026 Films Making Their Way to OTT Platforms

Manchu Vishnu is set to team up with Prabhu Deva for his next project, marking the director\'s return to Telugu cinema after nearly 18 years. Vishnu, who recently starred in Kannappa, is undergoing intense workouts to build a strong physique for the film.&nbsp;\r\nPrabhu Deva\'s previous Telugu films include Nuvvostanante Nenoddantana, Pournami, and Shankar Dada Zindabad. He later shifted his focus to Tamil and Hindi cinema, directing films like Pokiri remakes and Dabangg 3. Manchu Vishnu is reportedly playing the lead role in the upcoming film.\r\nVishnu\'s current project selection suggests he\'s being selective after Kannappa, which featured Prabhas, Mohanlal, and Akshay Kumar. Industry insiders claim Vishnu personally convinced Prabhu Deva to collaborate on this film. With Prabhu Deva\'s direction and Vishnu\'s commitment, the project is generating buzz.\r\nThe film promises to be an exciting addition to Vishnu, with Prabhu Deva\'s experience. Prabhu Deva, known for his work as a choreographer, actor, and director, will make his return to Telugu as director after 18 years with this project. Official details are awaited.&nbsp;

Vishnu Manchu Locks His Next

Manchu Vishnu to Star in Prabhu Deva Direction

RRR To Be Continued In AnimeRRR (2022) has become a global phenomenon, earning massive appreciation and winning an Academy Award for Best Original Song for \"Naatu Naatu\". The film\'s director, SS Rajamouli, is now exploring a new way to bring the story to life, an anime adaptation. Rajamouli revealed that he\'s in talks with Japanese studios to adapt RRR into an anime, potentially expanding the film\'s universe and legacy.&nbsp;\r\nThe anime adaptation would be a continuation of the original film, starring NTR and Ram Charan. Rajamouli expressed his excitement about the project, saying, \"I\'m waiting for things to move forward. Hopefully it happens, and hopefully we can announce a cool continuation of RRR anime\". This development comes as Rajamouli\'s Baahubali franchise is already set to receive a two part animated spin off, directed by Ishan Shukla, with the first part scheduled for release in 2027.\r\nRajamouli\'s interest in anime was sparked by popular franchises like Demon Slayer and Attack on Titan. He believes anime has the power to tell stories in a more impactful and emotionally driven way. The director\'s vision for RRR anime is to create a unique and exciting experience for fans worldwide.\r\nWith RRR\'s global success and Rajamouli\'s passion for anime, this project has the potential to break new ground in international storytelling. If successful, it could pave the way for more Indian films to be adapted into anime, expanding their global reach and appeal.

RRR To Be Continued In Anime

RRR Gearing Up For An Anime Adaptation

The Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court has stayed proceedings in a criminal defamation case against filmmaker Aditya Dhar and others over their film Article 370. The complaint was filed by Ghulam Mohammad Shah, alleging that the movie used his photograph without permission, portraying him as a terrorist and damaging his reputation.\r\nThe court noted that key legal procedures were overlooked, and Shah\'s statements were not recorded under oath, as required. The filmmakers, including Aditya Dhar, had produced Article 370, starring Dhar\'s wife, Yami Gautam Dhar. The magistrate had issued a pre-cognizance summons under Section 356 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, pertaining to defamation.\r\nSenior advocate Syed Faisal Qadri argued that the magistrate had to examine the complainant and witnesses under oath, and the court agreed, staying proceedings in Shah\'s complaint against Aditya Dhar. The next hearing is scheduled for March 23.\r\nThe court\'s decision highlights the importance of following proper procedures in defamation cases, ensuring that accused individuals are given a fair chance to respond.

Defamation Case Against Aditya Dhar

Jammu and Kashmir High Court Stays Defamation Case Against Aditya Dhar\'s Film Article 370

Ever since the success of Border2, all eyes are on Border3. Bhushan Kumar, the producer of Border 2 said &ldquo;We are doing a joint venture with his company and my company. He&rsquo;ll be directing, and it will be something new. Border 3 will happen in due course,&rdquo;\r\nNow, Ahan Shetty speaking to scribes shared more details about Border3. He said entirely. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s not about the armed forces this time,&rdquo; he says, while confirming that action remains central to the narrative. &ldquo;It does have strong action elements, but it&rsquo;s a different space altogether.&rdquo;\r\nOn Border2 success, he says &ldquo;I don&rsquo;t look back too much,&rdquo; he explains. &ldquo;I take things as they come. I also don&rsquo;t want to think too highly of success. I am just grateful to have been part of such a project.&rdquo;\r\nHe shared &ldquo;I didn&rsquo;t leave any stone unturned, and I am happy the audiences have loved my work.&rdquo; Looking ahead, his focus remains clear and uncomplicated. &ldquo;I shall continue to keep working hard and will try to keep my fans always happy.&rdquo;\r\n&nbsp;\r\n&nbsp;

Border 3 having more action

Ahan Shetty shares secrets of Border 3

Director actor Tharun Bhascker recently entertained movie lovers with his film Om Shanti Shanti Shanthihi. The film starred Eesha Rebba as the female lead.\r\nNow Tharun Bhascker became part of the project titled in an interesting manner as Gayapadda Simham. Young director Pavan Sadineni turned producer. Speaking to scribes he surprised all saying US President Donald Trump will be part of the project.\r\nHe said &ldquo;It is not a spoof. US President Trump will be part of our film and how and where, you have watch the movie.&rdquo; The recent poster showed in bold red-and-white hues inspired by American iconography, the artwork features a charging aircraft against stars and vertical stripes reminiscent of the US flag.\r\nFaria Abdullah and Maanasa Choudhary are the female leads in the film which features Vishnu Oi, Harshavardhan, and Subhalekha Sudhakar in key roles. The technical crew includes Vidya Sagar Chinta as cinematographer, Sweekar Agasthi as music composer, and Viplav Nyshadam as editor.

US President to debut in Tollywood

Us President Trump debut in Telugu film Gayapadina Simham

Akshay Kumar is coming to thrill all with his upcoming film Bhoot Bangla. The film is generating interest as it is helmed by Priyadarshan.\r\nAccording to the latest, the makers who earlier planned to release the film in May, now decided to release the film on 10 April 2026. Confirming the details, Akshay shared a small teaser featuring a black cat on his X account. The cat scratches on the table calendar, which is open to May. The calendar falls on the ground, with milk spilt all over it on the page of April. The cat licks on the date 10, suggesting the new release date of the film.\r\nIn the caption, Akshay wrote, \"Bhooth Bangla ka countdown rewind! 15 May âŒ10 April âœ…Milte hain theatres mein (See you in theatres).\"\r\nProducer Ektaa Kapoor took to her X account to share her excitement for the release of Bhoot Bangla. She wrote, &ldquo;Nagin ke baad &lsquo; bhoot&rsquo; &hellip;&hellip;. Bangla apna darwaza jaldi kholega !!! 15 saal ka intezar &hellip;is jodi Jo dekhne ke liye (After Naagin, Bhoot will open the gates very soon! It has been a long wait of 15 years to see this pair).&rdquo;

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