Author: yousufparvez

  • Capturing the King: ‘Michael’ Biopic Set to Explore Michael Jackson’s Iconic Life

    Capturing the King: ‘Michael’ Biopic Set to Explore Michael Jackson’s Iconic Life

    Michael Jackson, known as the ‘King of Pop’ worldwide, is remembered for his unique performances and individuality. Despite various controversies, his contribution to music is highly valued even after his death. Recently, a biopic titled ‘Michael’ has announced its release date, shedding light on the legendary artist’s life.

    Michael Jackson

    Born on August 29, 1958, in the United States, Michael Jackson began his musical journey at the age of five. His fame surged in the late seventies and early eighties, marked by globally popular albums. Despite passing away at 50, his songs continue to captivate audiences.

    The upcoming biopic, ‘Michael,’ aims to portray the artistic life of Michael Jackson, exploring how he earned the title ‘King of Pop.’ The film promises a comprehensive view of his personal life, artistic achievements, and the controversies that surrounded him.

    The production company, Universal Pictures, has revealed that Michael’s own brother, Jaffer Jackson, will play the role of Michael. The biopic will delve into the iconic artist’s journey, showcasing the highs and lows of his life. The film’s narrative will shed light on the controversial aspects of Jackson’s life, providing a balanced portrayal.

    The decision to cast Michael’s brother has sparked debates about his suitability for the role. Critics question whether Jaffer Jackson can effectively capture Michael’s essence. The movie’s production is set to commence on January 22, promising an in-depth exploration of the legendary pop star’s legacy.

  • Dhanush and Sethupathi Take Center Stage in Bollywood’s Southern Wave

    Dhanush and Sethupathi Take Center Stage in Bollywood’s Southern Wave

    In India’s Bollywood, the spotlight is now on Southern heroes and heroines who continue to captivate audiences with their stellar performances. Icons like Prabhas and Ramcharan are not just stars; they are phenomena, and the anticipation surrounding their movie releases is nothing short of a cultural event. Among the latest releases, two films stand out, featuring Tamil superstar Dhanush and the versatile actor Sethupathi. Both movies hit the screens simultaneously, adding to the excitement for cinema enthusiasts.

    Captain Miller

    Dhanush, renowned for his acting prowess, graced the silver screen with “Captain Miller,” a Tamil language film that promises to be a cinematic spectacle. Simultaneously, Sethupathi presented his latest venture, “Merry Christmas,” which released not only in Tamil but also in Hindi, expanding its reach to a broader audience. The added allure in “Merry Christmas” is the debut pairing of Katrina Kaif with Vijay Sethupathi, creating a buzz in the film fraternity.

    “Captain Miller” is set against the backdrop of an impactful pre-Partition narrative, delving into the pages of history during the British rule in India. The storyline unfolds with scenes depicting British troops engaging in excavations, reflecting the dominance and authority they exerted during that era. A pivotal moment in the narrative arises when British forces target and destroy a village while attempting extensive digging. In response, the resilient villagers unite to confront this force, and at the forefront of this resistance is the character of Captain Miller, portrayed by the Tamil superstar Dhanush.

    Dhanush’s dedication to his craft is evident in his transformative efforts for the role. He underwent a substantial physical transformation, altering his hairstyle and beard to authentically embody the character of Captain Miller. The actor, known for his versatility, goes beyond mere portrayal by assuming a dual role, effectively capturing the essence of both a father and a son within the narrative.

    Priyanka Mohan and Shiv Rajkumar, part of the supporting cast, deliver exceptional performances, contributing to the overall impact of “Captain Miller.” The film stands as a testament to Dhanush’s commitment to his craft and his ability to immerse himself fully in diverse roles.

    On the other side of the cinematic spectrum is “Merry Christmas,” featuring Vijay Sethupathi and the Bollywood luminary Katrina Kaif. The movie garnered attention with its intriguing trailer, filled with mystery and suspense, piquing the interest of the audience. The film promises an engaging storyline, incorporating elements of suspense, tension, and enigma to keep the audience on the edge of their seats.

    “Merry Christmas” unfolds with a series of fanciful scenes, blending suspense with an inventive plot. One such instance involves the intricate preparation of a mysterious concoction, where sleeping pills are ground in one blender, while almonds and green chilies find their place in another. This meticulous blending builds an air of suspense, foreshadowing events that will transpire on Christmas Eve when Vijay Sethupathi and Katrina Kaif’s characters meet.

    As the narrative progresses, the characters find themselves embroiled in various incidents, navigating through extreme danger on Christmas Day. The film thrives on its ability to sustain mystery, tension, and suspense, providing a cinematic experience that keeps the audience guessing and engaged throughout.

    The most intriguing aspect now lies in the hands of the audience as they eagerly await the verdict at the box office. The question lingers: which of these two cinematic offerings, “Captain Miller” or “Merry Christmas,” will emerge as the victor? Dhanush and Sethupathi stand at the forefront of this cinematic clash, and their respective fan bases are in anticipation, eager to witness the outcome of this dual-release showdown.

  • Windows QR Code Scanning Made Simple: Step-by-Step

    Windows QR Code Scanning Made Simple: Step-by-Step

    Scanning QR codes on your Windows computer is a straightforward process that doesn’t require a smartphone. Windows provides multiple options, including using the native Camera app for live scanning and external services for image-based QR code recognition. Additionally, dedicated apps like Codex offer a user-friendly experience for both live camera scanning and extracting QR codes from existing images. This guide simplifies the methods, making QR code scanning accessible to users on Windows 10 and Windows 11.

    QR codes

    1. Using the Windows Camera App
    – Click the magnifying icon on the taskbar or press Win + S to open the search menu.
    – Type “camera” and choose the first result.
    – Click on the arrows to reveal the Barcode button.
    – Place your QR code in front of the computer’s camera, and it will be scanned automatically.

    2. Scanning QR Codes from an Image
    – Use an online QR code scanning service like ScanQR.
    – Visit the ScanQR website and click Drag & Drop or Browse.
    – Select the image with the QR code, and the website will scan it, showing the result in the Scanned Data box.

    3. Using the Codex App
    – Download and install the Codex app on your PC.
    – Open the app and click the Scan QR Code button.
    – Choose the Camera option and allow camera permissions.
    – Place the QR code in front of the camera for automatic scanning.

    If you want to scan a QR code from an existing image
    – Open Codex, select Scan QR Code, and choose File.
    – Click Select Image, locate the image with the QR code, and open it.

    Now, let’s break down each method:

    Using the Windows Camera App
    Microsoft has added a QR code scanner to the native camera app on both Windows 10 and Windows 11. You can easily access it by searching for “camera” in the taskbar. Once open, click on the Barcode button and position your QR code in front of the camera. The app will scan it automatically.

    Scanning QR Codes from an Image
    While the Windows Camera app is handy, it can’t scan QR codes from existing images. To do this, use an online service like ScanQR. Visit their website, upload the image with the QR code, and let the website scan it for you. Copy the result from the Scanned Data box if needed.

    Using the Codex App
    Codex is an app available on the Microsoft Store for scanning QR codes. Download and install it, then open the app and click on Scan QR Code. Choose the Camera option, grant camera permissions, and place the QR code in front of the camera for scanning. If you want to scan a QR code from an image, follow the steps provided within the app.

  • Affordable Gaming: Top Budget Motherboards for 2024

    Affordable Gaming: Top Budget Motherboards for 2024

    Choosing a good and affordable motherboard for gaming in 2024 is important. Building a gaming computer can be expensive, but the motherboard doesn’t have to be. You can save money on the motherboard and use that budget for a better GPU and CPU. Even budget motherboards come with features like the latest Intel and AMD sockets and Gen 5 M.2 slots.

    MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk

    The MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk is a great budget motherboard for gaming. It has many features without major drawbacks. While having Gen 5 M.2 sockets would be nice, Gen 4 is still good. It provides three sockets, giving you plenty of space. The motherboard also has a PCIe 5.0 x16 slot for your GPU, capable of handling full-sized GPUs without sagging. The LGA 1700 socket is perfect for budget builds, allowing you to start with an entry-level CPU and upgrade later with just a BIOS update.

    The Gigabyte A620I AX is another budget motherboard that is easy to work with, making it ideal for those new to PC building. It supports AMD’s Ryzen 7000 series processors and comes with the Q-Flash Plus feature. This feature lets you update the BIOS with just a USB drive, power support, and the press of a button. The EZ-latch ensures a snug fit for your GPU and makes it easy to eject when upgrading your rig. While limited to PCIe 4.0 GPUs, it still works well with modern GPUs.

    For those who want to overclock their Intel processor on a budget, the ASRock B760M PG Riptide is a good choice. It supports 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel processors. Overclocking can provide extra power, especially when combined with proper cooling like an AIO cooler. The motherboard also supports PCIe 5.0 GPUs, allowing for future upgrades. The slot has anchor points and a strong latch to hold heavy graphics cards securely.

    On the AMD side, the ASUS TUF B650-Plus is a budget motherboard with an unlocked AM5 socket, perfect for overclocking AMD processors. It supports DDR5 and overclocking, providing a performance boost. The motherboard features heatsinks for the VRM and M.2 slots to manage heat generation. It also has RGB and ARGB headers for personalization, allowing you to sync colors using ASUS’s Polychrome Sync software.

    Finally, if you want personalization without breaking the bank, the ASRock B760M Steel Legend is a budget-friendly motherboard. It features RGB and ARGB headers for customizable lighting. The LGA 1700 socket, DDR5 support, and PCIe 5.0 graphics card support make it a solid foundation for your gaming build. While limited to Gen 4 M.2 speeds, it provides three slots for big SSDs.

  • Shah Rukh Khan’s Blockbuster Year: What’s Next in 2024?

    Shah Rukh Khan’s Blockbuster Year: What’s Next in 2024?

    The year 2023 was amazing for Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan. His fans will always remember the different Bollywood movies that were talked about during this time. Shah Rukh Khan, often referred to as the “God of fortune,” had a year filled with success, setting new records and reaching new heights.

    Shah Rukh Khan

    It seems like luck has favored Shah Rukh Khan generously. This success has left fans wondering about his plans for the upcoming year. People are eager to know what Shah Rukh Khan’s next big project will be in 2024.

    Just like in 2023, Shah Rukh Khan might continue his journey with action and thriller movies, or he might surprise everyone with something new. There are talks about a collaboration with producer Karan Johar for his upcoming venture.

    If everything falls into place, Shah Rukh Khan’s new movie might hit the silver screen in 2024. While Karan Johar is considering action movies, Shah Rukh Khan is contemplating a different approach. Interestingly, Karan Johar, known for his romantic movies, might be venturing into the action genre for the first time if Shah Rukh Khan agrees.

    On the contrary, the Bollywood icon, Shah Rukh Khan, is not keen on experimental movies after his recent film, “Dunki.” Instead, he prefers to work on movies that suit his age and align with his style.

    In the past, Shah Rukh Khan has collaborated with Karan Johar in several successful movies like “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai” and “Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham.” He delivered outstanding performances in movies like “Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna” and the unforgettable “My Name is Khan,” both directed by Karan Johar. Now, everyone is eager to see what surprise the Bollywood king has in store for his fans in the new year.

  • Avoiding Scams: Understanding Phishing, Smishing, and Vishing

    Avoiding Scams: Understanding Phishing, Smishing, and Vishing

    Scams want your money, and they come in different forms. Have you ever got strange emails, texts, or calls asking for money or personal info? Scammers use tricks called phishing, smishing, or vishing to get you. How can you know and avoid falling for these tricks? Let’s break down the differences between phishing, smishing, and vishing:

    Phishing

    Phishing
    Phishing usually comes through emails. Scammers send emails that look like they’re from your bank, a store, or a government agency. They make it seem urgent, like a problem with your bank account or an order from Amazon. They want you to click on a link that seems real but takes you to a fake page. When you enter your login info there, they can access your account and cause trouble.

    Smishing
    Smishing is like phishing but through text messages on your phone. Scammers send texts that look real, maybe from your bank or a friend. They include links for you to click. If you click and give your login details, you fall into their trap.

    Vishing
    Vishing is voice phishing over phone calls. Instead of emails or texts, scammers call you. They might use tricks like saying your Social Security number is in trouble or you owe money to the IRS. They create fear to make you share personal info.

    Phishing Emails
    Bad people send fake emails, pretending to be your bank or others. They make you click on links to steal your info.

    Smishing Texts
    Scammers send tricky texts, acting like your bank or a friend. They want you to click links and share your info.

    Vishing Calls
    Bad guys call and tell scary stories, like problems with your Social Security. They make you share personal info.

    How to Spot These Scams
    Look for signs like strange sender addresses or emails about things you didn’t sign up for. If it seems odd, it probably is.

    Example
    I got an email that looked weird and claimed to be from Cash App. I don’t use Cash App, and the sender’s address seemed fake. They wanted me to click a link, but I deleted the email because it felt wrong.

    Tips to Stay Safe
    1. Don’t click on strange links.
    2. Check sender details.
    3. If it seems urgent, double-check with the real company.
    4. Delete suspicious messages.
    5. Don’t share personal info over the phone unless you’re sure.

    Remember, scammers want to trick you, but being careful keeps you safe!

  • Shah Rukh Khan’s Blockbuster Dunki Eyes Oscars in the Race for Glory!

    Shah Rukh Khan’s Blockbuster Dunki Eyes Oscars in the Race for Glory!

    People are talking a lot about Shah Rukh Khan’s movie “Dunki,” and both critics and the audience seem excited. The movie is expected to make around 450 crores at the box office. Now, there’s news that “Dunki” is entering the race to win an Oscar award!

    Dunki-Oscars

    The movie has been submitted for nomination at the Academy Awards. Shah Rukh Khan has sent two movies to the Oscars before, but they didn’t win. Back then, winning an Oscar seemed tough, but people are feeling positive about “Dunki.”

    Shah Rukh Khan had a successful year in 2023, starting with a big hit that crossed 1000 crores in earnings. The much-awaited “Jaawan” was released in September, bringing his total income to 1166 crores. After a wait, his last movie of the year, “Dunki,” came out in December.

    In total, Shah Rukh Khan’s movies made more than 2500 crores at the box office in a year. Fans are hopeful that “Dunki” will do well at the Oscars and that Shah Rukh Khan will bring more surprises in the new year.

  • Franz Beckenbauer: Football Legend’s Journey from Munich to World Cup Glory

    Franz Beckenbauer: Football Legend’s Journey from Munich to World Cup Glory

    Franz Beckenbauer grew up in Munich, Germany, after World War II. As a kid, he loved playing football against the front wall of his house. The wall became like a good friend; if he kicked the ball well, it would bounce back, so he didn’t have to run after it.

    Franz Beckenbauer

    Even as a youngster, Franz was energetic and loved football. People thought he was a bit wild when playing. Once, when he complained about being fouled in a game, he got slapped. This incident changed football history.

    Later on, Franz joined Bayern Munich, a famous football club. Because of his great contributions, the team got to play in the Bundesliga. He played really well, and Bayern Munich won the BFB Pokal Cup and the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup.

    Franz Beckenbauer was often put in the position of a defensive midfielder by his German coach. He had a special skill for scoring goals late in the game. In the 1966 World Cup, he scored four goals. After many tries, he finally led West Germany to victory in the 1974 FIFA World Cup.

    Franz Beckenbauer’s team was exceptional in a style of play called total football. They dominated the game. He also secured victories in the European Cup in 1974, 1975, and 1976. He even won the Euros before the World Cup.

    During this time, he was considered the best footballer in German history. He was not just a great footballer; he also appeared on TV, singing and modeling. He didn’t stick to one area of the field; he moved freely around.

    He earned the nickname ‘Kaiser da Empire.’ Besides playing, he also did fantastic work as a coach for the German national team and as a manager for football clubs. German football owes a lot to him because he is the greatest figure in German football history.

  • Breakthrough Study Reveals High Levels of Nanoplastics in Common Bottled Water Brands

    Breakthrough Study Reveals High Levels of Nanoplastics in Common Bottled Water Brands

    Scientists found almost 250,000 tiny nanoplastic particles in a liter of bottled water, using a special microscope with dual lasers for the first time. The researchers at Columbia and Rutgers universities discovered these microscopic plastic pieces in five samples each of three common bottled water brands. The particle levels ranged from 110,000 to 400,000 per liter, with an average of around 240,000, as reported in Monday’s Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

    nanoplastic particles

    Nanoplastics are less than a micron in size, which is much smaller than previous studies on slightly larger microplastics. The study found 10 to 100 times more nanoplastics than microplastics in bottled water. The plastic seems to come from the bottles themselves and the reverse osmosis membrane filter used to keep out contaminants.

    The researchers are uncertain about the health effects of these nanoplastic particles, and further studies are needed to determine if they are harmful. The International Bottled Water Association and the American Chemistry Council emphasized the lack of standardized measuring methods and scientific consensus on the health impacts of nano- and microplastic particles.

    Plastic pollution is a significant global issue, with more than 430 million tonnes of plastic produced annually, leading to microplastics in oceans, food, and drinking water. The United Nations Environment Programme notes efforts for a global plastics treaty, which has faced challenges in recent talks. The study’s co-authors have reduced their bottled water use after conducting the research, recognizing the impact of plastics on the environment and potential health concerns.

    While the danger of plastics is still uncertain, experts express concern about additives in plastics, as nanoparticles can be internalized into cells, potentially causing cell stress, DNA damage, and changes in metabolism or cell function. The study introduces a new tool for detecting nanoplastics, and experts recommend further research to replicate the technique and results.

  • CES 2024 Smartphone Roundup: From Gaming Titans to Budget-Friendly TCL

    CES 2024 Smartphone Roundup: From Gaming Titans to Budget-Friendly TCL

    Let’s talk about the best smartphones we saw at CES 2024. CES is a big tech show in Las Vegas where companies show off new gadgets. We usually see cool TVs and car stuff, but this year, there are also awesome new smartphones. Here are some of the best ones!

    ROG Phone 8

    First, we have the Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro. Asus is famous for gaming, and this phone is like a gaming beast. It runs on Android 14 and has a super-fast chip inside. The phone comes with 16GB of memory and 512GB of storage, but you can get an even fancier version with 24GB of memory and 1TB of storage.

    The screen is big, 6.78 inches, and it can refresh really fast, especially when playing games. The display is also bright and clear. The phone is tough too – it can handle water and dust. The cameras on this phone are top-notch, with a 50MP main camera and other cool features. The battery is huge, 5,500mAh, and it won’t overheat even if you play games for a long time. It charges really fast, either with a wire or without wires. Plus, there’s a little LED display on the back that shows fun animations.

    They also have a special edition called the ROG Phone 8 Pro Edition. This one has a cooling fan to keep it from getting too hot during intense gaming. It even has a headphone jack!

    Now, Asus has another good phone, the ROG Phone 8. It’s almost the same as the Pro version but without the cool LED animations on the back. It’s still a great gaming phone with a big screen and powerful features.

    Next up, TCL. TCL is known for affordable phones, and at CES 2024, they introduced seven new ones! Let’s focus on the TCL 50 XL 5G. It has a huge 6.8-inch display with great sound. The phone starts with 8GB of memory and has a big battery, 5,010mAh, so it lasts a long time. It’s a good choice for people who are always on the move.

    TCL also has something unique – NxtPaper smartphones. These phones have screens that look and feel like paper, so there’s no glare, especially when you’re outside. TCL didn’t share all the details, but it sounds interesting and different.