A blockbuster lineup of CBS series from the Network’s past, present and future will be presented in panels at Comic-Con® 2016. STAR TREK, THE BIG BANG THEORY and SCORPION return to San Diego, joined by new Network series and a first-ever “Fan Favorites” session with CBS stars. Exclusive videos will be presented at each of the series’ panels.
Also, CBS will offer free rides in electric cars promoting THE LATE LATE SHOW with JAMES CORDEN, MACGYVER, KEVIN CAN WAIT, THE GREAT INDOORS and MAN WITH A PLAN. Giveaways will include collectibles for SCORPION and the upcoming CBS All Access STAR TREK series and promotional items for MACGYVER and THE GREAT INDOORS.
CBS Interactive will provide fans with its annual on-site coverage, via CBS.com, GameSpot, CNET and TVGuide.com.
DETAILS ON PANELS/SCREENINGS (in chronological order):
THURSDAY, JULY 21
CBS Television Studios Block
(Featuring SCORPION, AMERICAN GOTHIC, FAN FAVORITES and MACGYVER)
12:00-3:00 PM (Ballroom 20)
SCORPION #TeamScorpion #SDCC2016
#TeamScorpion, we’ve got a case! We need to retrieve the inside scoop on what’s happening this fall with #Waige, #Quintis and the rest of our favorite band of misfit geniuses. Back by popular demand, Monday night’s top-rated drama series, SCORPION, returns to SDCC for the third year in a row with the stars and producers giving fans the intel on plots, story arcs and romances before anyone else. Fans can join series stars Elyes Gabel (“World War Z”), Robert Patrick (“Terminator 2”), Katharine McPhee (“Smash”), Eddie Kaye Thomas (“American Pie”), Jadyn Wong (“Broken Trail”), Ari Stidham (“Huge”) and executive producer Nicholas Wootton (subject to availability) for a panel discussion moderated by Patrick Gomez (@PatrickGomezLA) from PEOPLE magazine.
**A SCORPION signing with the cast will take place from 11:00-11:30 AM on Thursday at the Entertainment Earth booth (#2343).
For the latest updates on SCORPION, go to:
https://www.facebook.com/ScorpionCBS
@ScorpionCBS, @ElyesGabel, @robertpatrickT2, @katharinemcphee, @JadynJWong, @AriStidham and @NicholasWootton
@scorpioncbs, @ElyesGabel, (Robert Patrick) @ripfighter, @ katharinemcphee, @JadynJWong, @AriStidham
AMERICAN GOTHIC #AmericanGothic #SDCC2016
See how the other half kills with AMERICAN GOTHIC, CBS’s new summer series centered on a prominent Boston family that is reeling after a chilling discovery links someone in their midst to an infamous string of murders. As shocking secrets from the past and present are revealed, the mounting suspicion and paranoia threatens to tear the family apart. Get an exclusive sneak peek at what’s behind closed doors at the Hawthorne estate followed by a panel discussion with the stars and producer. AMERICAN GOTHIC stars Juliet Rylance (“The Knick”), Antony Starr(“Banshee”), Virginia Madsen (“Sideways”), Justin Chatwin (“Shameless”), Megan Ketch (“Jane the Virgin”), Elliot Knight (“Sinbad”), Stephanie Leonidas (“Defiance”) and Gabriel Bateman (“Lights Out”).
For the latest updates on AMERICAN GOTHIC, go to:
https://www.facebook.com/AmericanGothicCBS
@AMERICAN_GOTHIC, @julietrylance, @antonystarr, @madlyz, @justinchatwin, @itmeganketch, @itselliotknight, @stephleonidas, @1gabrielmichael
@AmericanGothicCBS, @julietrylance, @virginiamadsen, @justingchatwin, @megamketch, @itselliotknight, @stephleonidas, @gabrielmichaelbateman
FAN FAVORITES #CBSFANFAVORITES #SDCC2016
It’s Throwback Thursday at Comic-Con with some of your favorite CBS stars! Join Eric Christian Olsen (“NCIS: Los Angeles”), Daniela Ruah (“NCIS: Los Angeles”), Wilmer Valderrama (“NCIS”), Kirsten Vangsness (“Criminal Minds”), Daniel Henney (“Criminal Minds: Beyond Borders”) and James Wolk (“Zoo”) as they throwback to the early days of their careers and the most memorable moments from the sets of their shows. Don’t miss the fan Q&A when they will exclusively tease what’s ahead for their characters in the upcoming season. Kevin Frazier (@KevinFrazier), host of “Entertainment Tonight,” will moderate Fan Favorites.
@Vangsness, @JamesWolk, @ericcolsen, @WValderrama, @DanielaRuah, @danielhenney
@kirstenvangsness, @jameswolk, @ericcolsen, @wilmervalderrama, @danielaruah, @danielhenneyofficial
MACGYVER #MacGyver #SDCC2016
Mac is back! The action-adventure drama, and hugely popular, MACGYVER is coming back to CBS this fall in the reimagining of the classic series. MacGyver creates a clandestine organization within the U.S. government where he uses his extraordinary talent for unconventional problem solving and vast scientific knowledge to save lives. MacGyver and his team take on the responsibility of saving the world, armed to the teeth with resourcefulness and little more than bubble gum and a paper clip. Fans will be joined by series stars Lucas Till (“X-Men”), George Eads (“CSI”) and Executive Producers Peter Lenkov (“Hawaii Five-0”) and James Wan (“Furious 7”) for an exclusive sneak peek of the first season, followed by a panel discussion. Michael Yo (@MichaelYo), correspondent for “The Insider” will moderate.
For the latest updates on MACGYVER, go to:
https://www.facebook.com/MacGyverCBS
@MacGyverCBS, @LucasTill, @PLenkov, (James Wan) @creepypuppet
@MacGyverCBS, @LucasTill, @PLenkov, (James Wan) @creepypuppet
FRIDAY, JULY 22
THE BIG BANG THEORY (Presented by Warner Bros. Television)
10:00–11:00 AM (Ballroom 20) #WBSDCC
Inside THE BIG BANG THEORY Writer’s Room — THE BIG BANG THEORY’s writers return to San Diego to take you inside the biggest moments of season nine and behind-the-scenes of TV’s #1 scripted series/comedy! From the wedding and the baby news, to “Shamy’s” big night, find out what goes into making the hit series each week and how the writers keep things fresh after more than 200 episodes! Join the show’s executive producers and writers for a lively discussion and special video presentation.
From Chuck Lorre Productions, Inc. in association with Warner Bros. Television, THE BIG BANG THEORY returns for season 10 on Monday, Sept. 19. (The Big Bang Theory: The Complete Ninth Season will be released on Blu-ray and DVD on Sept. 13.) For the latest updates on THE BIG BANG THEORY, go to:
www.facebook.com/TheBigBangTheory
@BigBang_CBS, executive producers @SteveMolaro @billprady
@BigBangTheory_CBS
SATURDAY, JULY 23
STAR TREK: CELEBRATING 50 YEARS
(Presented by CBS Television Studios and CBS Consumer Products)
2:00-3:00 PM (Hall H) #StarTrek50
Sept. 8, 2016 marks the 50th anniversary of the first broadcast of STAR TREK. What began as a TV show became a window into the future and a reflection of our greatest hopes and dreams. By envisioning a world where technology and science improve the human condition and where peace and unity transcend conflict and separation, STAR TREK has inspired children, parents, engineers, scientists, entrepreneurs and viewers around the world. It’s also spurred countless real-world innovations and “firsts”… giving a name to a Space Shuttle (the Enterprise), launching one of the first and most passionate worldwide fandoms and featuring the first interracial kiss on U.S. television. Join William Shatner, Scott Bakula, Michael Dorn, Jeri Ryan and Brent Spiner. The conversation will be moderated by Bryan Fuller, executive producer of the new STAR TREK television series coming to CBS All Access, following its CBS Television Network preview in January 2017.
For details on the additional, previously announced, STAR TREK-themed panels, go to:
www.startrek.com/article/star-trek-50-comic-con-details-revealed
For more information on STAR TREK go to: www.StarTrek.com
@StarTrek, @WilliamShatner, @ScottBakula, @akaWorf, @JeriLRyan, @BrentSpiner, @BryanFuller
@StarTrek

Movie
The rise of Japanese anime in India

In recent years, the Indian entertainment landscape has witnessed a remarkable surge in the popularity of Japanese anime, leading to an increasing demand for localized content. Recognizing this trend, several platforms have begun offering anime dubbed in regional Indian languages such as Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu, making these captivating stories more accessible to a broader audience.
Streaming services have played a pivotal role in this cultural integration. For instance, Animedub.pro provides a vast collection of anime dubbed in languages including Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Bengali. Popular series like “Naruto,” “My Hero Academia,” and “Jujutsu Kaisen” are available in these regional languages, allowing fans to enjoy content in their preferred dialects.
Similarly, Crunchyroll, a leading anime streaming platform, announced a slate of Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu dubs for series such as “Dr. STONE,” “BLUE LOCK,” and “Haikyu!!” between May and June 2024, further catering to the diverse linguistic demographics of India.
The success of dubbed anime is significantly attributed to the talented Indian voice artists who bring these characters to life. Notable examples include:
Prasad Barve: Renowned for voicing Ash Ketchum in the Hindi version of “Pokémon” during the early 2000s, Barve’s portrayal became iconic among Indian audiences.
Sonal Kaushal: Known as ‘The Motor Mouth,’ Kaushal has been the Hindi voice of Doraemon since 2005, endearing herself to a generation of viewers.
Ankur Javeri: Celebrated for his portrayal of Goku in the Hindi dub of “Dragon Ball Z,” Javeri’s performance has electrified fans at events like Zee Cafe’s Anime Fest.
Javed Jaffrey: While not an anime series, Jaffrey’s humorous narration of the Japanese game show “Takeshi’s Castle” in Hindi showcased his versatility and contributed to the show’s cult status in India.
The localization of anime through regional dubbing has not only broadened the genre’s appeal but has also fostered a deeper cultural exchange between India and Japan. By experiencing stories that blend universal themes with distinct cultural nuances, Indian audiences have developed a greater appreciation for Japanese storytelling. This trend has also opened new avenues for Indian voice artists, providing them with opportunities to showcase their talent and connect with audiences nationwide.
In conclusion, the dubbing of Japanese anime into Indian languages like Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu signifies a harmonious blend of cultures, enriching the entertainment experiences of audiences and paving the way for a more inclusive media landscape.
Streaming
Thandel: A Riveting Journey Through Social Inequities and Human Struggles

Directed by: Rajesh Kumar | Written by: Rajesh Kumar | Starring: Vijay Sethupathi, Nayanthara, and Pasupathi
Genre: Drama, Thriller | Runtime: 2 hours 45 minutes
Available on: Netflix | Studio: Red Studios
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Thandel is a gripping drama-thriller that examines the deep-rooted social and political issues prevalent in rural India. Directed and written by Rajesh Kumar, the film brings to light the stark realities of human suffering, class divides, and systemic oppression while weaving a powerful narrative of hope and resistance. With stellar performances by Vijay Sethupathi, Nayanthara, and Pasupathi, this film offers more than just entertainment – it’s a powerful commentary on society.
The story centers around Karthik (Vijay Sethupathi), an idealistic young man who returns to his village after years of studying in the city. He quickly realizes that his community is being threatened by a corrupt political system that is destroying the very fabric of rural life. His attempts to restore justice and bring about change lead him into a whirlwind of tension, deceit, and violence. As Karthik allies with Anjali (Nayanthara), a strong-willed social activist, the two face constant opposition from powerful forces.
The narrative is slow-burning at first but quickly accelerates, with each twist revealing more about the characters’ motivations, fears, and hopes. The layered storytelling keeps you hooked until the very end.
Vijay Sethupathi delivers yet another powerful performance, effortlessly transitioning between the earnestness of his character and the complex moral dilemmas he faces. Nayanthara, as always, excels in portraying the fiery yet vulnerable activist, and her chemistry with Sethupathi elevates the emotional depth of the story.
Pasupathi, in a key supporting role, steals the show with his nuanced portrayal of a villain who is more human than one might expect, further adding complexity to the story.
Rajesh Kumar’s direction is both poignant and precise. His attention to detail in capturing the rural landscape of India creates a sense of place that is both beautiful and haunting. The cinematography is immersive, with sweeping shots of the village contrasted by intimate close-ups that highlight the emotional turmoil of the characters. The direction adds weight to the social commentary while never sacrificing the entertainment value of the plot.
The soundtrack, composed by Anirudh Ravichander, is another standout element of Thandel. The haunting score perfectly complements the film’s dark themes, while songs like “Thamizh Puthu” bring an uplifting energy to the narrative at the right moments. The sound design plays a crucial role in amplifying the tension in key scenes, immersing the viewer further into the tense atmosphere.
At its core, Thandel is a powerful examination of social inequality, the exploitation of rural communities, and the complex relationship between political power and the people. The film touches on corruption, justice, and the role of activism in driving societal change. Through its nuanced portrayal of its characters and their personal struggles, it urges viewers to think about the impact of systemic oppression and the importance of standing up for what is right.
Thandel is a thought-provoking, emotionally charged film that blends drama with thriller elements. Its intelligent screenplay, solid performances, and striking visuals make it an essential watch for anyone interested in socially relevant cinema. While the pacing may be slow for some viewers, the emotional payoff and the film’s profound message make it well worth the wait.
Rating: 9/10
Movie
Jaat (2024) – A Gritty and Pulse-Pounding Ride Through Rural JusticeJaat

Runtime: 2h 17min
Genre: Action, Drama, Crime
Director: Manoj Rathi
Writer: Veerendra Pal Singh
Studio: Rathi Films India
Cast:
Gavie Chahal as Veeru
Aarushi Sharma as Meera
Karamveer Choudhary as Chaudhary Saab
Manjit Singh as Inspector Malik
Rajendra Bhatia as MLA Dhillon
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Jaat comes galloping in with the firepower of a rural action epic and the emotional core of a revenge drama. Directed by Manoj Rathi, this gritty North Indian action film pulls no punches, delivering a hard-hitting tale about honor, family, and retribution.
Gavie Chahal commands the screen as Veeru, a former army man turned vigilante who returns to his village only to find it ravaged by corruption and political thuggery. Chahal brings stoic intensity to the role, capturing both the silent rage and explosive force required of a righteous hero. Aarushi Sharma as Meera provides warmth and emotional grounding, while Karamveer Choudhary adds gravitas in his portrayal of an old patriarch trying to hold on to fading traditions.
The film’s biggest strength lies in its raw action sequences, beautifully choreographed and grounded in realism. Hand-to-hand combat, shootouts in mustard fields, and gripping chase scenes through narrow village lanes are highlights that keep you on the edge of your seat.
What Worked:
Authentic setting: The dusty lanes, village politics, and vibrant Haryanvi culture feel lived-in and immersive.
Powerful soundtrack: Folk-infused music enhances key moments, especially during confrontations.
Action choreography: Brutal, believable, and satisfying for fans of grounded action.
Strong lead performance: Gavie Chahal delivers a breakout role with screen presence and emotional depth.
Pacing issues: The second act lingers due to subplots that could have been trimmed. Predictable plot points: The revenge arc follows a familiar path and would benefit from more unexpected twists. Underdeveloped antagonist: Although the villain is effective, they lack depth and backstory, which would make the rivalry more engaging..
Rating: 7.5/10
Verdict: Jaat is a must-watch for fans of desi action with heart. It wears its rustic flair with pride and delivers a satisfying punch of drama, action, and cultural resonance. While it doesn’t reinvent the genre, it revs up the rural revenge saga with style and sincerity.