Primal releases Friday November 8th at select theaters and on demand. This new action packed film directed by Nick Powell, pits hunter and collector Frank Walsh (Cage) who expects a big payday after bagging a priceless white jaguar for a zoo. But the ship bearing Frank’s precious cargo has another predator — a political assassin facing extradition to America played by Kevin Durande. When the prisoner manages to break free, Walsh must utilize his expert skills to capture the dangerous killer alive
We had a chance to catch up with Nick to talk about the film. These days it is common place to see CG in big budget films (Marvel) but to carry out that kind of vision on an independently made movie is quite a feat.
That’s my Entertainment (TME): Thanks again for the opportunity for us to talk with you about your film. You’ve been in the industry a very long time. How did you find your way into the storytelling business?
Nick Powell (NP): I left school… I went to engineering college. I was supposed to go to university to study pure math and computing numerical systems… something like that or along those lines and I didn’t want to do it. I was always wanted to be an actor. I loved the theater and movies. So I turned that down and went to London to study at an acting school for a few years and then I started to work as an actor. I was directing some theater; I was sort of pushing in that direction then I met a friend who was planning to be a stuntman in the UK I trained to be a stuntman and got qualified and did acting at the same time. Eventually I got to direct.
TME: So how did you get involved in Primal?
NP: This project came across my desk and the producer said if we can get one of these actors on a list that we can probably get this movie made… And it just so happened that Nick’s name was on the list Once I read the script I thought about Nick for Frank. It was an obvious choice from my point of view. So seeing Nick’s name on there and me sort of seeing for the role. I sent Nick the script and said look I love it and I want to work with you again.Let’s do it. And the project came together from there.
TME: With your background as a stuntment and now that you are in the director’s seat, what was the most important aspect of the story that you had to tell?
NP:When I read it I felt like the movies I used to love when I was younger. It felt like a throwback. It didn’t feel totally contemporary in terms of where it was. There was something about it that feels like an 80’s 90’s throwback movie… It’s a popcorn genre thriller with a little humor in there. There was something about it that I knew what it was as soon as I read it. It’s a thriller that was designed to have people at the edge of their seats. It was about making in a fun ride for the audience. Let the audience enjoy it.
TME: It definitely was a roller coaster and again, with the CG it was still very realistic. You don’t really expect some of it I see some of the movies out there and you can see the green screen where they pop out.
NP: I remember watching a lot of movies in the beginning and seeing things that felt like CG and I thought if they had only racked focused at the time so what they were putting in focus were out of focus. They drew attention to the CG as opposed to anything else. The best way to do it is to shoot as if it wasn’t CG. How would you do this if it was a real animal. How would you light it if it was a real animal. I am all about downplaying the CG and making it as much of a background element so it feels more real. The more you can do that the more you can bring the audience into the project itself.
TME: Can you tell me one of the craziest things that happened on set?
NP: So it was difficult enough having a parrot be a real parrot. It took so much more time with a real parrot than it would have been with a CG parrot. There are certain things that you have to do for real in order to make the CG justifiable, and more believable. So that was one of those things where we had to do the parrot but it took so much more time shooting the parrot. For Nick Cage he had to interact with the parrot so in the scene he would come over and say his line and the parrot wouldn’t act. And we wait and then any second now the parrots going to move its wings… and then he’d try again and again and he would say his line and nothing. He said that this parrot is a bit of a diva and then all of a sudden the parrot would do it but Nick didn’t say his line. We had two trainers with the parrot and it was just taking too much time. We had to take the parrot out and let it relax.
Primal is out in theaters and on demand tomorrow.

Streaming
Baahubali: The Beginning

Rating
Storyline: 9/10
Performances: 9/10
Direction: 10/10
Visuals and VFX: 10/10
Music: 8.5/10
Overall Rating: 9.5/10
S.S. Rajamouli’s Baahubali: The Beginning is a magnum opus that redefined the landscape of Indian cinema. Released in 2015, this epic historical drama captivated audiences worldwide with its grandeur, compelling storytelling, and unforgettable characters. With a mix of mythological inspiration and cinematic spectacle, Baahubali: The Beginning sets the stage for an extraordinary tale of power, betrayal, love, and legacy.
The film tells the story of Shivudu (Prabhas), a young man raised in a tranquil village who is drawn to the mysterious and towering waterfall near his home. His curiosity and courage lead him to the kingdom of Mahishmati, where he uncovers his royal lineage and his connection to the legendary warrior, Amarendra Baahubali (also played by Prabhas).
The narrative is skillfully interwoven with flashbacks revealing a tale of palace intrigue, betrayal by Bhallaladeva (Rana Daggubati), and the valor of Baahubali. The first installment ends on a cliffhanger that leaves viewers yearning for answers about the fate of Baahubali and the sinister conspiracy surrounding his death.
Prabhas as Shivudu/Amarendra Baahubali: Prabhas delivers a dual performance that is both regal and relatable. His commanding presence as Baahubali is balanced by the playful and curious nature of Shivudu. Rana Daggubati as Bhallaladeva: Rana embodies menace and ambition, portraying a formidable antagonist. His physicality and intense expressions add depth to his character. Anushka Shetty as Devasena: Though her role is limited in this installment, her fiery spirit and tragic undertones leave a lasting impression. Tamannaah Bhatia as Avantika: Tamannaah brings grace and strength to Avantika, a rebel fighting for Mahishmati’s freedom. Ramya Krishnan as Sivagami: Arguably one of the film’s standout performances, Ramya Krishnan’s portrayal of the steely and noble queen is unforgettable.Sathyaraj as Kattappa: Sathyaraj adds emotional weight and intrigue to the story as the loyal yet enigmatic warrior.
S.S. Rajamouli’s vision is unparalleled. His ability to blend mythological grandeur with human emotions ensures the story resonates universally. K.K. Senthil Kumar captures the magnificence of Mahishmati and the breathtaking landscapes with a keen eye for detail. The film’s VFX is groundbreaking for Indian cinema, particularly the waterfall sequences and battle scenes. M.M. Keeravani’s music is a soul-stirring mix of grandeur and emotion, amplifying key moments. The intricate set designs and costumes reflect the film’s epic scale and authenticity.
Baahubali: The Beginning explores themes of heroism, loyalty, family, and the thirst for power. It highlights the cultural richness of Indian storytelling while presenting it in a universally accessible format. The film’s success not only established Telugu cinema on the global stage but also proved that regional Indian films could achieve blockbuster status internationally.
Baahubali: The Beginning is more than a film; it is an experience. Its blend of epic storytelling, jaw-dropping visuals, and powerful performances makes it a landmark in Indian cinema. The movie is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates grand narratives and larger-than-life characters. It leaves you in awe and eagerly anticipating the sequel, Baahubali: The Conclusion.
Whether you’re a fan of historical epics or someone looking for an immersive cinematic experience, Baahubali: The Beginning is a film that transcends boundaries and sets a gold standard for Indian films on the global stage.
Movie
Love Hurts Delivers High-Octane Action with Heart

Rating: 8/10
Genre: Action, Comedy
Runtime: 83 minutes
Director: Jonathan Eusebio
Writers: Matthew Murray, Josh Stoddard, Luke Passmore
Studio: 87North Productions, Universal Pictures
Stars: Ke Huy Quan, Ariana DeBose, Daniel Wu, Marshawn Lynch, Mustafa Shakir, Lio Tipton, Rhys Darby, André Eriksen, Sean Astin
Marvin Gable (Ke Huy Quan) is a former hitman who has reinvented himself as a successful realtor in suburban Milwaukee. But his peaceful life is shattered when Rose (Ariana DeBose), his former partner and lost love, reappears with a chilling warning. Adding to the chaos, Marvin’s estranged brother, Knuckles Gable (Daniel Wu), a ruthless crime lord, is on a relentless hunt for him. Forced to confront his past, Marvin must fight his way through old enemies and long-buried secrets—all while trying to keep his new life intact.
From the moment Love Hurts begins, it grips the audience with a pulse-pounding blend of action, comedy, and emotional depth. Director Jonathan Eusebio, best known for his stunt work in John Wick and Deadpool 2, makes a stellar transition to the director’s chair, delivering slick, hard-hitting action sequences that showcase his mastery of fight choreography.
Ke Huy Quan, in his first major leading role since his Academy Award win, is an unconventional yet compelling action star. He brings an everyman charm to Marvin, making him both relatable and surprisingly lethal when pushed to the edge. Ariana DeBose shines as Rose, exuding charisma and wit, while Daniel Wu commands the screen as a menacing yet layered villain.
The film moves at a breakneck pace, balancing high-octane action with well-timed humor and emotional weight. The chemistry between Quan and DeBose adds depth to the story, making their characters’ relationship feel authentic. While the plot treads familiar ground, it’s executed with such energy and style that it remains thoroughly engaging.
Love Hurts is a thrilling action-comedy that delivers intense fight sequences, sharp humor, and a heartfelt story. Ke Huy Quan proves that he’s not just a comeback story—he’s a bona fide action star. While the film doesn’t reinvent the genre, it executes its formula with precision and flair, making it a must-watch for action fans.
Final Rating: 8/10—An electrifying mix of action, comedy, and heart that proves love—and revenge—can hurt in all the right ways.
Movie
Preview: War 2 – NTR Jr. and Hrithik Roshan Collide in an Action Extravaganza This July

The stage is set for one of the most anticipated cinematic showdowns of 2025 as War 2 unites Hrithik Roshan and NTR Jr. in a high-octane spy thriller. Releasing in July 2025, this sequel to the 2019 blockbuster War promises to be a game-changer for Indian action cinema, combining heart-stopping stunts, gripping drama, and unparalleled star power.
Hrithik Roshan reprises his iconic role as Kabir, the brilliant and unrelenting intelligence officer. Opposite him, NTR Jr. delivers another powerhouse performance following his success in RRR and the recently released Devara. NTR Jr.’s portrayal in Devara, a gritty and emotionally charged action-drama, has already cemented his status as one of the most versatile stars of Indian cinema. His role in War 2 is rumored to bring an intense, enigmatic energy that will complement and challenge Hrithik’s suave and strategic Kabir.
Directed by Ayan Mukerji (Brahmāstra, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani), War 2 is a pivotal entry in YRF’s expanding spy universe, which includes blockbusters like Pathaan and Tiger Zinda Hai. Mukerji’s direction is set to deliver a perfect blend of jaw-dropping action sequences, emotional depth, and a storyline that interconnects the spy universe’s key players.
The combination of Hrithik Roshan’s finesse and NTR Jr.’s raw intensity promises fireworks on the big screen. Both actors have proven their mettle in action-packed roles, and their pairing is already creating a buzz among fans worldwide. The film’s international locales, intricate espionage plot, and adrenaline-pumping action set pieces ensure that War 2 will be nothing short of a visual spectacle.
Having already conquered audiences with his portrayal in Devara, where he showcased his commanding presence and action chops, NTR Jr. brings fresh excitement to War 2. His collaboration with Hrithik Roshan is a casting masterstroke that raises the stakes for this ambitious sequel.
Mark your calendars—July 2025 will be an unforgettable month for Indian cinema as War 2 takes audiences on a rollercoaster ride of action, intrigue, and star-studded brilliance.