Veteran Hollywood actor Val Kilmer, known for his powerful performances in blockbuster films like Top Gun, Batman Forever, The Doors, and Heat, passed away at the age of 65 in Los Angeles. His daughter, Mercedes, confirmed he died of pneumonia. Kilmer had previously battled throat cancer, diagnosed in 2014, and had undergone a tracheotomy that affected his voice and limited his screen appearances.

Remembering a multifaceted performer

Born Val Edward Kilmer on December 31, 1959, in Los Angeles, he was the youngest student ever admitted to the prestigious Juilliard School at age 17. Kilmer’s early work in comedies like Top Secret! and Real Genius quickly brought him into the limelight. His career skyrocketed with the role of Iceman in Top Gun (1986), starring opposite Tom Cruise.

Kilmer’s portrayal of Jim Morrison in The Doors (1991) earned acclaim for its intensity and authenticity. His role as Doc Holliday in Tombstone and as part of the ensemble cast in Michael Mann’s Heat further solidified his standing in Hollywood. In 1995, Kilmer stepped into the iconic cape and cowl as Batman in Batman Forever, following Michael Keaton.

Tributes pour in

Filmmaker Michael Mann paid homage, calling Kilmer’s talent “brilliant and variable” and said the news was “tremendously sad.” Actor Josh Brolin remembered him as “smart, brave and uber-creative,” while British actor David Thewlis called him “extraordinary” and a “friend.” Actor Will Kemp and others remembered Kilmer for his generosity and unique presence on set.

US actor Josh Gad credited Kilmer for shaping the films of his childhood, while James Woods lauded his unforgettable performance as Doc Holliday.

A legacy beyond the screen

Kilmer, who married actress Joanne Whalley in 1988 and had two children with her, was also a visual artist, drawing inspiration from his film characters. In 2021, he released Val, a deeply personal documentary composed of decades of personal video footage, showcasing the ups and downs of his career and life post-cancer.

Despite health setbacks, Kilmer made a memorable return to the screen in Top Gun: Maverick (2022), once again portraying Iceman. His brief but emotional appearance was praised by fans and co-star Tom Cruise alike.

Film critics and industry insiders agree: Kilmer was never just another leading man. With an unpredictable, often edgy screen persona, he brought depth and complexity to every role he played.

A24 has officially unveiled the highly anticipated full trailer for Bring Her Back, the latest horror film from the acclaimed directors of Talk to Me, Danny and Michael Philippou. This upcoming feature is being referred to as a “spiritual successor” to their breakout hit and stars two-time Oscar nominee Sally Hawkins as a mother grappling with immense grief over her deceased daughter, whom she is obsessively trying to revive.

In the recently released trailer, viewers are introduced to Hawkins’ character, who is profoundly haunted by her loss and appears unable to heal. When someone inquires how she has managed to cope with her daughter Cathy’s death, her response is stark: “I didn’t.” Yet, the complexity of her sorrow goes beyond typical mourning; she claims to have made contact with an angel and is delving into occult practices to bring Cathy back to life. “Some people believe the spirit stays in the body for months after death,” she whispers, revealing her dread and determination as she insists, “We can bring her back.”

The plot of Bring Her Back, which was previously shrouded in secrecy, has begun to take shape. It follows a brother and sister who, upon moving into their new foster home, stumble upon a terrifying ritual linked to the dark past of their caretaker. Joining Hawkins in the cast are Billy Barratt, Sora Wong, and Jonah Wren Phillips, all of whom contribute to the film’s chilling atmosphere.

Co-written by Danny Philippou and Bill Hinzman, Bring Her Back is produced by Samantha Jennings and Kristina Ceyton, the duo behind Talk to Me. The film was shot in Australia and co-financed by Salmira Productions and the South Australian Film Corporation. International distribution rights have been secured by Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions, while A24 will manage the domestic release.

Following the significant success of Talk to Me, which grossed over $92 million worldwide, Bring Her Back is set to make its theatrical debut on July 4. This launch has generated considerable buzz, building anticipation for what promises to be another haunting addition to the horror genre.

Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor are gearing up to mesmerize audiences with their forthcoming romantic comedy, Abir Gulaal, which is set to hit theaters on May 9. The teaser, recently unveiled, offers a glimpse into the story set against the charming backdrop of London. It narrates the tale of two individuals, each dealing with their own heartbreak, who serendipitously cross paths and embark on a journey of healing, ultimately discovering love in one another.

Khan, who recently returned to the screen with Barzakh, has expressed his sincere appreciation for the support and patience shown by his Indian fans during his time away from the limelight.

Directed by Aarti S. Bagdi, known for her work in Chalti Rahe Zindagi, Abir Gulaal is produced by Indian Stories in collaboration with A Richer Lens and Aarjay Pictures. The film’s production team includes several notable industry figures, such as Vivek B. Agrawal, who has previously worked on acclaimed films like Queen and Udta Punjab, alongside Avantika Hari and Rakesh Sippy.

The journey of Fawad Khan in the Indian film industry has been marked by various challenges. In 2016, he found himself at the center of a controversy when the Indian Motion Picture Producers Association enforced a ban on Pakistani artists following the Uri attacks. Tensions escalated when the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena threatened to obstruct the release of Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, leading to a public ultimatum for Pakistani artists to leave India.

Despite the tumultuous situation, the film ultimately received a clearance for release from the Central Board of Film Certification. In a recent development in October 2023, the Bombay High Court dismissed a petition that sought to prohibit Pakistani performers in India.

Throughout his career, Khan has also starred in projects such as Khoobsurat (2014) and Kapoor & Sons (2016). He has expanded his portfolio with international roles, including appearances in Ms. Marvel (2022) and The Legend of Maula Jatt (2022), which became Pakistan’s highest-grossing film.

Vaani Kapoor, recognized for her role in Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui (2021), is also set to feature in Netflix’s upcoming Mandala Murders and the new Bollywood film Badtameez Gill. Abir Gulaal is poised to make its worldwide debut on May 9, and it promises to be an enchanting cinematic experience.