War Epic ‘Red Rain’ Named Vietnam’s Oscar Entry

South Africa has officially submitted 'The Heart Is A Muscle' for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards. Directed by Imran Hamdulay, this film delves into the profound relationships between fathers and sons, highlighting themes of inter-generational healing and forgiveness. This submission is significant as it showcases South African storytelling on a global stage, potentially bringing more attention to the country's rich cinematic landscape.

Indie Eye Productions, known for its Emmy-winning work, is collaborating with Spain's EFD Studios and Mexico's AG Media to create a four-part docudrama titled 'Columbus: Myths and Origins.' This series seeks to explore the enduring mystery surrounding Christopher Columbus's true identity, blending investigative journalism with storytelling. This project is significant as it promises to shed new light on a historical figure whose legacy has been debated for centuries, potentially reshaping our understanding of history.

The 52nd Film Fest Ghent is set to captivate audiences from October 9-18, showcasing a retrospective of Nicolas Roeg's work alongside emerging local talent. Program director Wim De Witte highlights the importance of political films, stating they are 'essential viewing' in today's world where reality often outshines fiction. This festival not only celebrates cinematic artistry but also encourages critical discussions on pressing societal issues, making it a significant cultural event.

Banijay Rights is gearing up for MIPCOM with an exciting new documentary collection titled 'Super Bowl Champions,' which explores the stories behind NFL champions from the last four decades. This collaboration with NFL Films and Banijay Americas' BD4 label promises to captivate buyers and fans alike, showcasing the rich history and drama of the Super Bowl. This launch is significant as it highlights the growing interest in sports documentaries and the potential for engaging storytelling in the sports industry.

Chilean production company Clara Films is expanding its horizons by establishing a new outpost in Madrid and taking on its first feature film, 'An Imaginary Kingdom.' This project marks a significant milestone for the company and its directors, Belén Abarza and Eduardo Bunster, who are both based in Madrid. The move not only highlights the growing collaboration between Chile and Spain in the film industry but also showcases the creative talents emerging from these regions. It's an exciting development that promises to enrich the cinematic landscape.

The BBC has issued a sincere apology following backlash over a report detailing the tragic death of Matt Beard, the former Liverpool women's manager who died by suicide last month. The report included sensitive information about the method of his death, which many found to be insensitive and inappropriate. This incident highlights the importance of responsible reporting, especially regarding mental health issues, and the need for media outlets to handle such topics with care and compassion.

Movistar Plus+ is making waves in the entertainment industry by rolling out exciting new shows like 'La Mesías' and 'Killing a Bear' globally. This move not only showcases the creativity of the Sánchez-Cabezudo brothers but also highlights the platform's commitment to delivering quality content to a wider audience. With these original productions gaining traction, it's clear that Movistar Plus+ is positioning itself as a key player in the international streaming market.