During Sundance festival’s first weekend, January 25-27, Pizza Hut and fan-owned entertainment company Legion M, in partnership with Getty Images, are celebrating the creators of culture by giving top entertainment industry talent, on and off screen, a place to relax and refuel in the heart of Main Street at the Pizza Hut x Legion M Lounge. From invited VIPs warming up with a hot slice from Pizza Hut during the day, to a weekend of exciting evening programming for the film community and its fans—curated by Legion M—along with health & wellness services from REME, the Pizza Hut x Legion M Lounge will be a can’t miss destination in Park City.
Located on Main Street, the Pizza Hut x Legion M Lounge is moving in near the iconic Egyptian Theatre. Beginning at 4:30 p.m. each day (Jan. 25-27), the Pizza Hut x Legion M Lounge celebrates the creativity and creators of film with a full schedule of exciting programming for festival attendees, including Legion M fan-owners and members. Legion M will host an eclectic lineup of insider discussions and networking opportunities, special guest speakers, fun parties and more!
To find out more information about Legion M’s evening programming at the Pizza Hut x Legion M Lounge, please visit LegionMLounge.Eventbrite.com. The fan-owned entertainment company will also be offering festival goers and film fans around the world the chance to become Sundance film scouts vis the Legion M SCOUT program, which can be found at LegionM.com/scout.
Knowing that festival work is hard, REME, the go-to provider for mindful health & wellness services and education, will be offering a wide range of on-site wellness services for VIP guests to relax, rejuvenate and recover. From 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. each day at the Pizza Hut x Legion M Lounge, wellness experts and on-site nurses in REME’s exclusive VIP Wellness Lounge will be providing attendees with their choice of B12 shots, Energy Boost IV drips and more, plus sharing wellness tips and recovery advice to keep you at your best, post-slopes, and other Sundance activities!
The full Pizza Hut x Legion M Lounge evening programming lineup for Friday, January 25 through Sunday, January 27 is below.
Pizza Hut x Legion M Lounge Evening Programing: RSVP atLegionMLounge.Eventbrite.com
Friday, January 25
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. – Calling All SCOUTS: Legion M SCOUT Meeting
Legion M cofounders Paul Scanlan and Jeff Annison will do a check-in with Legion M SCOUT members. - 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. – Women Doing Cool Shit in Hollywood Networking Event presented by REME
Casual networking event tailored toward women who are making moves and even bigger changes in the entertainment industry. Women looking to break into the film industry are encouraged to attend! - 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. – Twitch.tv Prime Time Programming
Legion M streams LIVE from the lounge on the Twitch.tv homepage, featuring interviews, viewer contests and giveaways, and more! - 9:00 p.m. – Close – Legion M Sundance Welcome Party
Saturday, January 26
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. – Calling All SCOUTS: Legion M SCOUT Meeting
Legion M cofounders Paul Scanlan and Jeff Annison will do a check-in with Legion M SCOUT members. - 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. – Tech in Hollywood Networking Event presented by Legion M
Industry insiders working in tech are encouraged to attend this networking event to share and learn how technology is driving the film industry in 2019 and beyond. - 7:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. – Fireside Chat with Leonard and Jessie Maltin
World-renowned film critic and historian Leonard Maltin and his daughter Jessie Maltin will chat about festival happenings in an intimate setting.
- 8:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. – Legion M’s Festival Film Quiz
Test your film knowledge for fun prizes!
- 10:00 p.m. – Close – Cereal Killer Party
Come relive your youth and eat a bowl of your favorite childhood cereal. Oh, free drinks and pizza will be provided, too!
Sunday, January 27
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. – Calling All SCOUTS: Legion M SCOUT Meeting
Legion M cofounders Paul Scanlan and Jeff Annison do a final check-in with Legion M SCOUT members. - 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. – Emerging Filmmakers Party
The hottest networking party for young visionaries on Main Street!
- 9:00 p.m. – Close – Open Mic Night presented by Legion M
The Legion M Open Mic is open to musicians, singers and performers attending the festival to showcase their talents.
Movie
Top 5 Indian Action Movie Stars to Watch Out For
As a devoted fan of South Indian action cinema and an entertainment journalist, I’ve come to admire the sheer charisma, talent, and screen presence of a few iconic actors who have redefined the genre. Here’s a list of my top five favorite Indian action heroes, along with a couple of must-watch movies from each of them that showcase their incredible prowess on screen.
- NTR Jr.
Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao Jr., known as NTR Jr., is an electrifying performer who blends action and emotion effortlessly. His dialogue delivery, intensity, and dance moves make him a powerhouse in South Indian cinema.
Must-Watch Movies:
RRR (2022): Directed by S.S. Rajamouli, this epic action-drama showcases NTR Jr. as Komaram Bheem, a fierce and compassionate warrior.
Temper (2015): NTR Jr. delivers a riveting performance as a corrupt cop who embarks on a journey of redemption.
- Allu Arjun
The “Stylish Star” of Tollywood, Allu Arjun, is celebrated for his fluid dance moves, charismatic screen presence, and action-packed roles. His ability to transform into diverse characters has won him a massive fanbase.
Must-Watch Movies:
Pushpa: The Rise (2021): As Pushpa Raj, a smuggler with unyielding determination, Allu Arjun delivers a gritty and unforgettable performance.
Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo (2020): While not strictly an action film, it features intense fight scenes and showcases Allu Arjun’s versatility.
- Prabhas
Known for his larger-than-life roles, Prabhas has become a global sensation. His dedication to his craft and ability to headline mega-budget films set him apart.
Must-Watch Movies:
Baahubali: The Beginning (2015) & Baahubali: The Conclusion (2017): These iconic films, directed by S.S. Rajamouli, transformed Prabhas into a household name.
Saaho (2019): A high-octane action-thriller where Prabhas portrays an enigmatic cop.
- Yash
Yash’s meteoric rise to stardom is nothing short of inspirational. His raw energy, intense action sequences, and ability to connect with audiences have solidified his status as a South Indian action hero.
Must-Watch Movies:
KGF: Chapter 1 (2018) & KGF: Chapter 2 (2022): Yash as Rocky Bhai is a cinematic phenomenon, blending larger-than-life action with a gripping storyline.
Masterpiece (2015): A lesser-known gem that highlights Yash’s charisma and action chops.
- Ram Charan
Ram Charan, a dynamic performer, has mastered the art of blending action, drama, and dance in his roles. His nuanced performances and incredible screen presence make him a fan favorite.
Must-Watch Movies:
RRR (2022): His portrayal of Alluri Sitarama Raju, alongside NTR Jr., is a masterclass in action and emotion.
Magadheera (2009): A timeless classic that combines action, romance, and fantasy in a spellbinding narrative.
Why These Actors Shine
What makes these stars stand out in the realm of South Indian action movies is their ability to push boundaries, take on challenging roles, and deliver performances that resonate with audiences. Whether it’s NTR Jr.’s emotional depth, Allu Arjun’s stylish personas, Prabhas’s epic presence, Yash’s raw intensity, or Ram Charan’s versatility, these actors have set benchmarks in the industry.
So, if you’re an action movie enthusiast like me, dive into their filmographies—you won’t be disappointed!
Movie
James Gunn’s Love for RRR: The Rise of NTR Jr. as a Global Phenomenon
When RRR stormed onto the global stage, it didn’t just captivate audiences—it redefined Indian cinema’s reach. Among the legion of admirers is none other than James Gunn, the mastermind behind Guardians of the Galaxy and the architect of DC Studios’ cinematic future. Gunn’s vocal admiration for the film, particularly its star NTR Jr., has sparked excitement in Hollywood and beyond. It’s a testament to NTR Jr.’s exceptional talent and a long-overdue recognition of his abilities as an actor of extraordinary caliber.
In interviews and social media posts, Gunn has repeatedly praised RRR for its storytelling, high-octane action, and emotionally charged performances. However, what truly stood out for the acclaimed filmmaker was NTR Jr.’s portrayal of Komaram Bheem. Gunn lauded NTR Jr.’s magnetic screen presence, noting how his nuanced performance struck the perfect balance between raw intensity and heartfelt vulnerability. For Gunn, this wasn’t just an appreciation of a great film—it was a call to collaborate with an actor who embodies the charisma and skill needed for global stardom.
As Gunn reshapes the DC Universe, the prospect of bringing NTR Jr. into the fold feels like a natural progression. With his eye for blending humor, heart, and heroism, Gunn’s creative vision would pair seamlessly with NTR Jr.’s dynamic acting range.
Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao Jr., affectionately known as Tarak, is no stranger to acclaim. Hailing from the illustrious Nandamuri family, his rise to stardom was marked by a series of standout performances in Telugu cinema. With each role, NTR Jr. has proven his versatility, effortlessly transitioning from emotionally driven characters in films like Yamadonga to action-packed blockbusters such as Temper and Janatha Garage. His role in RRR, however, elevated his craft to an international platform.
In RRR, NTR Jr. brought Komaram Bheem to life with an intensity that left audiences in awe. From the iconic jungle tiger scene to the emotionally wrenching friendship dynamic with Ram Charan’s Raju, he carried the weight of the film on his broad shoulders with effortless grace. His ability to portray strength, resilience, and vulnerability in equal measure cements him as one of Indian cinema’s greatest.
For years, Indian actors have slowly been making their mark on Hollywood, but NTR Jr. is poised to take it a step further. His universal appeal, combined with his dedication to his craft, makes him a natural choice for a crossover into global cinema. James Gunn’s interest in collaborating with him is not just a compliment—it’s a recognition of the talent that has long deserved a spotlight.
In a time when audiences are demanding more diverse stories and authentic representation, NTR Jr.’s inclusion in a major Hollywood franchise would be a game-changer. Whether as a DC superhero, a cosmic adventurer, or a complex antihero, Tarak has the range to bring any character to life.
Gunn’s admiration for RRR and NTR Jr. signifies more than just a potential collaboration. It’s a validation of Indian cinema’s ability to produce world-class talent and stories that resonate across cultures. As filmmakers like Gunn shine a light on stars like NTR Jr., the gap between Bollywood, Tollywood, and Hollywood continues to narrow, creating a truly global entertainment industry.
For NTR Jr., this could be the beginning of a journey that takes him from an Indian megastar to an international icon. As fans of cinema, we can only hope that James Gunn’s vision materializes, giving us the opportunity to see Tarak in a role that matches his immense potential. After all, it’s about time the world recognizes what Indian audiences have known for years—NTR Jr. is a force to be reckoned with.
Movie
Review: Game Changer
Review By: Raja V. Deva
Genre: Political Action Thriller
Runtime: Approximately 165 minutes
Director: S. Shankar
Writer: Story by Karthik Subbaraj; Screenplay by S. Shankar, Vivek, and Venkatesan
Cast: Ram Charan, Kiara Advani, Anjali, S. J. Suryah, Srikanth, Sunil, Jayaram, Samuthirakani
Music Composer: Thaman S
“Game Changer” marks S. Shankar’s foray into Telugu cinema with a political action thriller designed to be grand in scale and ambition. The film features Ram Charan in dual roles: Appanna, a shrewd political leader, and his son, Ram Nandan, an upright IAS officer determined to clean up a corrupt system. However, despite the actor’s valiant efforts, the story doesn’t fully work with Ram Charan in the lead.
Originally conceptualized for another actor, the film’s narrative feels like it was tailored for someone with real-life political aspirations. While Ram Charan brings his star power and intensity to the roles, the weighty political undertones and the narrative’s structure don’t align well with his on-screen persona. His dual performance showcases his range, but the emotional depth and conviction required to anchor such a politically charged film seem misaligned with his strengths.
The supporting cast provides decent performances, with Kiara Advani and Anjali making their presence felt, though their characters lack depth. S. J. Suryah stands out as a formidable antagonist, adding gravitas to the film. Thaman S’s background score enhances the mood, though the songs occasionally disrupt the flow of the narrative.
Visually, the film boasts stunning production values and large-scale set pieces, typical of Shankar’s style. However, even the grandeur and intricate action sequences can’t mask the disjointed storytelling. The screenplay struggles to balance its political commentary with its action-oriented approach, leaving neither element fully realized.
Ultimately, “Game Changer” feels like a project that missed its mark. The story might resonate with audiences interested in political drama or those with a penchant for larger-than-life narratives, but it doesn’t do justice to Ram Charan’s abilities or his established image.
Rating: 6/10
For fans of Ram Charan or political thrillers, it might be worth a watch, but “Game Changer” feels like an opportunity lost to deliver a truly compelling cinematic experience.