Having taken things slow on the professional front over the last decade, this year sees Madhuri Dixit-Nene moving ahead with gusto. Apart from having a show based on her time in Denver, the actor is making her debut in Marathi cinema with Bucket List and turning producer with another Marathi project. She is also reuniting with Anil Kapoor and her favourite director Indra Kumar for Total Dhamaal, which also stars Ajay Devgn.

Point out how she has her plate full and she says, “I didn’t take up too much work earlier because my kids were young. My priority was my family then. It still is, but since my kids have grown up now, I decided to do more work.”

The mother of two, who has become the brand ambassador of Mortein, says that even now, she designs her shoot schedules in a manner that allows her time with her kids. “I work my schedule around them. I always make sure that I am at home on time, so I can be with them,” she says before adding, “Also, I have always agreed to do something only when I feel strongly about the project. That was the case with Total Dhamaal and Bucket List, so I agreed to do them.”

As an artiste who would juggle two to three shifts a day in the ’90s, Dixit is glad that shoots have become more organised now. Talking about the positive changes in the industry, she says, “The best part is that everything is ready when you reach the sets. From the costumes to make-up, it’s all so well-managed. This makes our work so easier.” However, she is quick to point out a change that she is yet to adapt to. “I find film promotions a little boring. In the past, we didn’t have to promote a movie so aggressively, but I guess it’s the need of the hour.”

What does a Marvel fan do with their free time right now? Watch Black Panther, obviously. 

But, we’re Indians. We don’t spend money on anything unless we know it’s gold. So, instead of reading boring reviews anywhere else, let us give you 6 reasons to watch Black Panther this weekend:

Finally Got To Turn That Flame On – Michael B. Jordan (Killmonger)

It looks like Marvel is making a habit out of picking actors to play the Human Torch, realizing they are much better suited for other roles and then them killing it in those roles. This is what happened with Chris Evans and it has now happened with Michael B. Jordan.

While some might argue that Jordan was a fantastic Human Torch too, let’s face it, a bad story can ruin even the best of actors. It’s a good thing there was none of that here. Excellent script, excellent actors, and superb CGI. (Take note Justice League)

Me-Shone Bright – Danai Gurira (Okoye)

Some of you might remember her from The Walking Dead. Yup, that’s Michonne right there. Personally, I didn’t even realize it was her till I saw the credits. You really can’t recognize her without the dreadlocks. She proves she’s just as hardcore even without the zombie apocalypse. Clearly the breakthrough performance of the movie.

Are ’15 Million Merits’ Enough To ‘Get Out?’ – Daniel Kaluuya (W’Kabi)

Perhaps you remember him from the first season of Black Mirror. You definitely remember him from ‘Get Out.’ The man was nominated for an Oscar for crying out loud. While he doesn’t get too much screen time, he is one of the multiple Oscar-nominated actors in this movie. (There are a lot of them)

He’s the reason we hope Black Panther gets a second part. Yup, just so we can see him ‘Get Out’ a little more.

He Aint’ No ‘Person Unknown’ No More – Chadwick Boseman (T’Challa)

Chadwick was relatively unknown to the Indian audience before the Black Panther took off his mask in ‘Captain America: Civil War.’ That’s not the case anymore! With so many Oscar nominees/winners as part of the main cast, it’s not hard to get lost in all the brilliant acting. Most would expect him to pale in comparison to acting heavyweights like Forest Whitaker and Angela Bassett.

But, he doesn’t! ‘All Hail The King!’

No Longer A Slave – Lupita Nyong’o (Nakia)

Let’s face it, not many Marvel fans would have seen ’12 Years A Slave.’ But, if you did, you’ll notice Lupita Nyong’o from the moment she steps on screen. She is an Oscar-winning actress, so it’s fair to expect a lot out of her. Who thought we could have so much fun with such a serious character portrayal in a Marvel movie?

When Bilbo Went To Kansas – Martin Freeman (Everett Ross)

You won’t get this reference until you see the movie. One thing Marvel is great at doing is taking characters no one really cared about in the comics and making them awesome. Let’s not forget the fact that they keep hiring amazing actors to fill each role.

Ross is far more integral to this movie than he was to Civil War and let’s just say the man knows how to keep you captivated even when he’s not saying a word. *wink*wink*

So, go watch ‘Black Panther,’ then watch it again. Once you’re done, download the album (legally please) and lose your mind to the awesome beats from the movie courtesy Kendrick Lamar. We certainly are!

If you really want to show your support for Wakanda (Not like they need the money. But we do!), why don’t you pick up one of the superhero’s t-shirts? They don’t cost much and thanks to Amazon’s same day delivery if you order it right now, you can probably wear it to the movie!