ITV

Category: iWorld

  • Tasveer Film Market launches over 40 projects to amplify South Asian voices globally

    Tasveer Film Market launches over 40 projects to amplify South Asian voices globally

    Mumbai: The inaugural edition of the Tasveer Film Market, a new groundbreaking initiative under the prestigious 19th Tasveer Film Festival, is set to make waves by showcasing an exciting array of meticulously curated 40 South Asian and diaspora projects, handpicked from over 300 submissions across India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Nepal, the UK, the US, Canada, and Australia. It will bring to the forefront some of the region’s most talented filmmakers and producers, providing them a unique platform to present their work, geared towards creating a global footprint. Notable names including Sarvnik Kaur (Against the Tide), Radhika Apte (Sleepwalkers), Hania Chima (Laal Kabootar), Amole Gupte (Stanley Ka Dabba), Nabeel Qureshi (Na Maloom Afraad), among others, will present their projects at TFM. The market is also set to include the feature film adaptation of Soniah Kamal’s novel Unmarriageable, a project led by Sadia Ashraf and James McMillan, whose credits as a cinematographer include Avengers: Endgame and A Quiet Place: Part One, among others.

    A business will open at the market with the presentation of the 20 Tasveer Film Market Jury Select Projects. The Jury Select projects will be showcased and presented to leading studio executives, producers, DEI executives, and other key industry figures to forge partnerships and, in certain cases, facilitate funding. The Tasveer Film Market’s esteemed jury features notable figures from the entertainment world, including Dominique Welinski (Producer & Curator, Director’s Factory, Directors’ Fortnight – Cannes), Falguni Adams (Former Network Executive Producer, Vice Media), Shobha Sant (CEO, Creativeland Studios), Hemal Trivedi (Oscar & Emmy-winning filmmaker), and Swati Shetty (Founder, Bridge7).

    The Project Catalog will also feature 20 Tasveer Film Market Select projects that reflect diverse voices from across South Asia and the diaspora, along with an Out-of-Competition section of 20 Finished Films. These include key titles like Pooja Kaul’s The Umesh Chronicles, Suman Ghosh’s The Ancient, and Miriam Chandy Menacherry’s much-talked-about From the Shadows.

    The Tasveer Film Market will also host the final pitching session of the 5th Tasveer Film Fund, supported by Netflix. Nine finalists, out of a total of 200 submissions with under-development Narrative Shorts, will compete for the $25,000 grant, which will be awarded to three winning pitches.

    In addition to project pitches, the Tasveer Film Market includes keynote speeches, fireside chats, and panel discussions, providing attendees with an opportunity to engage with key industry figures. Among those attending are industry leaders such as award-winning filmmaker Pan Nalin, Oscar-nominated filmmaker Deepa Mehta, and executives from Blumhouse, Amazon MGM Studios, EST N8, Creativeland Studios, HBO, WME, CAA, One Community, Pillars Fund, and others. Furthermore, the festival and market have also partnered with leading organizations like NBCU, K&L Gates, and Washington Filmworks to support this growing platform. With a clear focus on elevating South Asian and diaspora content, the Tasveer Film Market aims to become a key player in the international film landscape.

    Tasveer Film Market founder and director Rita Meher expressed her enthusiasm: “A film market focused on South Asian cinema has been a long time coming. We’ve elevated the Tasveer Film Festival to new heights, making it the only Oscar-qualifying South Asian film festival in the world. Now, through the Tasveer Film Market, our vision is for these filmmakers to secure financing, access vital resources, engage directly with industry leaders, and gain distribution. It’s time for South Asian stories to transcend borders and be celebrated on the global stage.”

    “Our goal is to create a platform where South Asian and diaspora filmmakers can connect with the global industry, particularly in North America, where diverse voices are being amplified more than ever. We believe the Tasveer Film Market will become a vital stepping stone for these unique voices to gain the attention they truly deserve and for the ecosystem to incorporate and nurture more representation of South Asia, the diaspora, and their concerns. Being in Seattle, we will also bring a boom to the creative economy of the region,” added Tasveer Film Market advisor & associate director Anupama Bose.

    The 19th Tasveer Film Festival, where the market is hosted, will also showcase over 100 films, including feature films, shorts, and documentaries. The festival has established itself as a hub for cultural exchange and artistic collaboration, offering a vital platform for South Asian storytelling to flourish on the global stage.

  • Urban Company launches festive ‘Style My Space’ series with celebrity design challenges

    Urban Company launches festive ‘Style My Space’ series with celebrity design challenges

    Mumbai: Urban Company, a home services platform, in collaboration with YouTube, Next Narrative and Monk Entertainment announced the launch of its YouTube series, Style My Space. Just in time for the festive season, this series will feature some of India’s celebrity friends, including Tanmay Bhat, Aishwarya Mohanraj, Bollywood icons Farah Khan and Maheep Kapoor, and reality TV stars Jasmin Bhasin and Tejasswi Prakash. The celebrity friends will collaborate with Urban Company’s design experts to surprise their close friends with stunning home makeovers using the brand’s signature Wall Panels.

    This series celebrates the unique bond between friends while inspiring viewers with creative ideas for simple home upgrades that can dramatically enhance a room’s aesthetic. With the launch of Urban Company’s Wall Panels this year, the desire for trendy, stylish homes is rising. Services like wall molding and panel installations transform spaces, providing homeowners with a quick and impactful way to elevate their interiors. Celebrities take on the challenge of transforming their friends’ spaces in less than a day, highlighting their deep camaraderie and understanding of one another’s unique styles and preferences. The moment of the big reveal captures the authentic joy and surprise of a truly personalised makeover, with each episode filled with nervous anticipation, unexpected twists, and heartwarming laughter.

    Urban Company director of marketing Sugandha Gupta said, “At the heart of Style My Space is a commitment to crafting stories that seamlessly marry the essence of our offerings with the evolving needs of our customers. We understand that today’s consumers are looking for more than just products – they seek inspiration, personalisation, and solutions that truly resonate with their lifestyles. Our series reflects this by showcasing how our offerings can transform spaces, helping customers reimagine their environments and elevate their homes with style and function. We’re excited to share these stories that showcase how our brand is integral in helping people create homes that feel truly unique and tailored to their needs.”

    Next Narrative founder and CEO Mohit Jagtiani echoed these sentiments, adding, “ At times, content doesn’t need to be overproduced; presenting it in a raw, authentic format is exactly what ‘Style My Space’ is all about. Home makeovers and visual transformations come to life beautifully in formats like these, offering not just valuable information about the product category but also entertainment. Snackable YouTube shorts from these have great reach and inspire audiences. By collaborating with the right creators, we ensure the content is highly shareable, driving conversations and impact.”

    Viraj Sheth, Co-founder and CEO of Monk Entertainment emphasized the creative synergy in this series, stating, “It’s been an incredible experience shaping this home makeover show from scratch for Urban Company. We have created 3 episodes, each with guests from different industries – Bollywood, digital creators, and TV stars. With this, we’re able to target different audiences while delivering a unified message about the fantastic wall panelling service that the brand now has to offer. I am certain the content in this show will stir plenty of dinner-table conversations, and thereby drive conversions for the brand.”

    Whether you’re seeking a quick-fix design inspiration or looking to enjoy a feel-good series, Style My Space is the perfect way to celebrate the festive season. The first episode will premiere on 27th September on your favourite creator’s channel on YouTube. Don’t miss out as these celebrities bring their creativity and friendship to life in a way that only Urban Company can.

    This 3 part series has been conceptualised by Monk Entertainment co-produced by SOL Entertainment. 

  • Felicity Games and AbhiTech Games partner to launch two games

    Felicity Games and AbhiTech Games partner to launch two games

    Mumbai: DeVC led Felicity Games, a casual game developer and publisher, announced a partnership with AbhiTech Games, a game developing studio, to launch and publish two games viz: Warbound and Laser Tanks. With this partnership AbhiTech Games will gain access to Felicity’s one million users while Felicity will aim to grow by three times and almost double their monthly unique users by Q2 of 2025.

    AbhiTech Games is a gaming studio founded in 2018 by Abhishek Singh Rana, a two-time winner of Indian Game Developer Conference (IGDC) ‘Student Game of the Year Award’. It is an independent game studio known for creating titles like Paperly: Paper Plane Adventure and Laser Tanks. Currently, they are working on Warbound, a strategic deck-building game that challenges players to lead armies and conquer kingdoms.

    Felicity secured a $700K pre-seed funding from marquee angel investors CRED’s Kunal Shah, former Nazara CEO, Manish Agarwal, Sriharsha Majety, Swiggy’s Nandan Reddy and Google Cloud (APAC) head of gaming Sameer Pittalwala among key investors including DeVC and Visceral Capital. The company has already generated an increase in revenue by six times and plans to hit $1 million ARR in the next six months.

    Felicity will gain the rights to publish Laser Tanks, with 20,000 downloads on Google Play, and will also launch and publish Warbound, the latest game project from AbhiTech Games. Laser Tanks is a fast-paced top-down shooter game where you battle against alien monsters using weapons and laser-equipped tanks. Warbound is about building your ultimate battle deck and leading your armies in epic strategic warfare. Collect powerful cards & conquering rival kingdoms.

    The studio will aim to scale the games with the help of ‘Pokhran’ a proprietary framework which rapidly prototypes and tests casual games in partnership with Indian game developers for commercial viability.

    Felicity Games founder & CEO Anurag Choudhary stated, “Through this partnership combining our expertise in casual game publishing with AbhiTech Games’s award-winning game development, we aim to not only expand our audience but also carry forward a shared vision. The innovative Pokhran framework will surely enhance our growth and create unforgettable experiences for players everywhere.”

    Indie developer and AbhiTechGames founder Abhishek Singh Rana also stated: “The Pokhran framework will be a game-changer for us, helping us reach more players, achieve more downloads, and most importantly deliver memorable gaming experiences. Partnering with Felicity Games will allow us to take our games to the next level and grow alongside a company that shares our passion for innovation.”

    Beyond game development and publishing, Felicity Games distinguishes itself through strategic partnerships with studios and brands to co-create compelling intellectual properties (IPs). This collaborative approach not only enriches the gaming ecosystem but also expands the company’s reach and influence within the industry.

    As AbhiTech Games and Felicity Games come together to bring Warbound to life, Indian gamers and the global gaming community can look forward to an experience that promises to be both innovative and engaging.

  • IFP Season 14 returns to Mumbai on 12 & 13 October

    IFP Season 14 returns to Mumbai on 12 & 13 October

    Mumbai: IFP (formerly India Film Project) is back, calling all creators, storytellers, and innovators! Whether writing is your escape, storytelling your passion, or transforming ideas into visual masterpieces your craft, this is your ultimate playground. For over a decade, IFP has been the leading festival for nurturing creative talent across films & OTT, music, writing, storytelling, photography, design, art, comedy, and more.

    Taking its glorious legacy of thirteen successful seasons forward, the 14th edition of this two-day festival is taking place on 12 and 13 October in Mumbai. The festival serves as a dynamic space for artists to showcase their work and connect with industry professionals. Featuring an eclectic array of sessions, workshops, masterclasses, live performances, and challenges, IFP Season 14 promises to inspire, educate, and empower participants to push the boundaries of creativity.

    The stage of IFP Season 14 will be graced by a stellar lineup of speakers, including prominent figures like Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna Pathak Shah, Aditi Rao Hydari, Kabir Khan, Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Shoojit Sircar, Guneet Monga, Saurabh Shukla, Sonam Wangchuk, Geetanjali Kulkarni, Vivek Gomber, Rajesh Krishnan, Kunal Kemmu, Ram Madhvani, Chhaya Kadam, Kavita Seth, Geetanjali Shree (International Booker Prize Winner, Author of Tomb of Sand), Vikas Swarup, William Dalrymple, Trinetra, and Avanti Nagral. Creators can look forward to great industry insights from these cultural icons. Boasting creative growth, collaboration opportunities, and insider viewpoints, this edition strives to take participants’ artistic journey to the next level.

    Staying true to its innovative roots, IFP brings back its signature series of 50-hour challenges in filmmaking, music, design, performing arts, writing, and photography to this season, with over 54,000 creative minds participating globally. These challenges will be evaluated by a powerhouse jury, featuring a diverse panel of experts such as Kabir Khan, Rob, Amit Sharma, Lilette Dubey, Lijo Jose Pellissery, Sandeep Modi, Sooni Taraporewala, Sushin Shyam, Chaaya Prabhat, Sabari Venu, Manoj Shah, and Sasha Jairam.

    Sharing his excitement about IFP season 14, IFP founder Ritam Bhatnagar said, “We are ecstatic to launch yet another exciting season of IFP, a nexus for everything creative and culture. We are delighted to see participation coming in from 44 countries this year. Our goal is to create a truly global festival that fosters a community of creative individuals and provides a place to collaborate with like-minded individuals, allowing them to break new ground with their craft. With a fantastic mix of challenges and speakers, we hope to inspire and empower artists of all ages and backgrounds through this festival in coming years”

    IFP Season 14 has something unique for everyone, from thought-provoking discussions to immersive experiences.

  • The influencer era: Unleashing a new wave of free expression and information

    The influencer era: Unleashing a new wave of free expression and information

    We are living in an age where the traditional media landscape is being reshaped by a new breed of content creators – the influencers. These digital natives have harnessed the power of social media platforms to connect with millions of people worldwide, bypassing the gatekeepers of traditional media. This burgeoning influencer economy has far-reaching implications, not only for brands and marketers but also for the very fabric of our society.

    A new era of free expression

    One of the most significant impacts of the influencer era is the democratization of information and expression. Influencers, often individuals with niche expertise or passion, can now share their unique perspectives with a global audience. This has led to a proliferation of diverse voices and viewpoints, challenging the dominance of mainstream media narratives.

    Moreover, influencers have the power to amplify marginalized voices and stories. By giving a platform to individuals from underrepresented communities, they can help to break down stereotypes and foster greater understanding. This is particularly important in today’s world, where social media can be a breeding ground for misinformation and hate speech.

    The rise of influencer marketing

    The influencer economy has also revolutionised the way brands connect with consumers. Influencer marketing, a form of social media marketing that involves partnering with influencers to promote products or services, has become a highly effective strategy for reaching targeted audiences.

    At Brandcasting, we specialise in crafting authentic and engaging influencer marketing campaigns that drive results. Our team of experts works closely with brands and influencers to develop partnerships that resonate with consumers and deliver measurable ROI.

    Challenges and opportunities

    While the influencer era presents numerous opportunities, it also raises important challenges. One of the key concerns is the potential for influencers to spread misinformation or promote harmful content. It is essential for platforms and brands to implement measures to ensure the accuracy and authenticity of influencer content.

    Another challenge is the issue of influencer transparency. Many influencers are paid to promote products or services, but this is not always disclosed to their followers. This can erode trust and undermine the credibility of influencer marketing.

    Despite these challenges, the influencer era represents a significant shift in the way we consume and share information. By embracing this new reality and leveraging the power of influencers, brands can connect with their target audiences in a meaningful and authentic way.

    At Brandcasting, we are committed to helping brands navigate the complexities of the influencer landscape and achieve their marketing goals.

    The article has been authored by Brandcasting founder and CEO Prateek Chandani.

  • U.S. Polo Assn joins Zepto’s quick commerce

    U.S. Polo Assn joins Zepto’s quick commerce

    Mumbai: In a significant move advancing quick-commerce, U.S. Polo Assn. (USPA), the official brand of the United States Polo Association, has partnered with Zepto to offer its exclusive collection, delivered in 10 minutes.

    This collaboration broadens Zepto’s seller portfolio and marks a shift in how shoppers access fashion. Beyond groceries and personal care, customers can now purchase clothing from premium international brands within the same fast delivery window.

    On the announcement, Zepto co-founder & CEO Aadit Palicha shared, “We’re thrilled about this partnership. USPA, a brand that is synonymous with premium quality and timeless style. This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in our quick-commerce journey as Zepto expands into the fashion and lifestyle space. With USPA on board, our sellers are delivering a new level of convenience to fashion shoppers across India.”

    Arvind Fashions Ltd MD Shailesh Chaturvedi said, “With U.S. Polo Assn.’s sporty coolness and Zepto’s lightning-fast delivery, we are bringing a new level of accessibility and convenience to our customers. That’s such an exciting trend-setting solution for modern-day needs of our consumers .”

    U.S. Polo Assn’s collection is now available on Zepto, offering users a curated range of timeless apparel. From classic polo shirts to casualwear, customers can receive iconic USPA pieces within minutes. This partnership marks a shift in quick commerce, with Zepto expanding from essentials to premium fashion. Whether it’s getting a polo shirt before an event or casualwear for a last-minute outing, Zepto delivers fast, quality fashion—providing a new level of convenience for those who value both speed and style.

  • Big Cine Expo 2024 to redefine cinema exhibition at NESCO

    Big Cine Expo 2024 to redefine cinema exhibition at NESCO

    Mumbai: The seventh edition of the Big Cine Expo will take place at the Bombay Exhibition Centre (NESCO), India, from 30 September to 1 October 2024.

    As per the release, it is the world’s second-largest and Asia’s largest international convention and trade show for cinema exhibitors and theatrical distributors, and is expected to be even bigger and more innovative.

    The inauguration will feature industry figures like Maddock Films’ founder Dinesh Vijan, filmmaker Subhash Ghai, and PVR-INOX co-CEO Alok Tandon. A highlight of the expo will be filmmaker Atlee screening exclusive footage of his debut production ‘Baby John’ starring Varun Dhawan on day one.

    Big Cine Expo remains Asia’s largest B2B platform for the multiplex and single-screen sectors. The two-day event will provide local and international stakeholders with opportunities to connect and showcase technologies, products, and services aimed at enhancing the cinema and entertainment sectors. Key partners for Big Cine Expo 2024 include Galalite, IMAX, Qube Cinema, Christie, and Warner Bros. Discovery & Universal. Attendees can expect a packed schedule of product displays, demos, studio presentations, seminars, panel discussions, awards, special screenings, launches, exclusive B2B meetings, and networking opportunities.

    The IMAX Big Cine Awards 2024 will honor leaders and innovators in the cinema exhibition industry, recognizing achievements across various categories. These awards aim to celebrate excellence and creativity in the industry. With a focus on growth and innovation, the expo is expected to attract cinema operators, designers, distributors, studios, equipment manufacturers, project management professionals, and industry decision-makers from around the world.

    “This exceptional event, the second-largest of its kind worldwide, is a gathering of the brightest minds in cinema exhibition,” said Big Cine Expo director Raghav. “Our goal is to offer an exclusive and premier platform for exchanging innovative ideas and industry-leading solutions that will drive the future of cinema.”

    “To be in touch with technology and exhibition, which is the most important aspect for all of us who are making films: there’s so much attention to detail and a tenacious desire to push forward, and I believe the exhibition fraternity is doing just that. I feel greatly humbled to be a part of the show,” said Padma Shri film director, producer, and screenwriter Mani Ratnam.  

    “Domestic as well as international entities unite together, socialise, and share their thoughts. I am really looking forward to attend the event and witness some great work and some innovative concepts. Such initiatives are constructive for entrepreneurs in the cinema industry and ancillary businesses,” said Subhash Ghai.

    “Big Cine Expo has yet again brought the cinema exhibition industry together with its 7th edition of Big Cine Expo. This event has always provided a great platform for networking and collaboration among the key players in our industry. Big Cine Expo has been a symbol of strength and innovation. At PVR INOX, we are proud to be part of this journey and celebrate the progress we’ve made together. Congratulations to the team for organizing another excellent event and for their dedication to the growth and success of our industry,” said PVR INOX Ltd MD Ajay Bijli.

    India has long been a global leader in cinema consumption, and as the market for cinematic experiences grows, Big Cine Expo finds a fitting home in this dynamic country. Mumbai, the center of Indian cinema, has played a key role in shaping the industry, reflecting both its history and innovative approach. As a cultural and creative hub, the city provides the ideal setting for Big Cine Expo 2024, bringing together key industry figures to shape the future of cinema and entertainment in India and globally.

  • MY FM launches ‘Sadhguru Sar’ series with Sadhguru

    MY FM launches ‘Sadhguru Sar’ series with Sadhguru

    Mumbai: MY FM, the radio arm of Dainik Bhaskar group has announced the launch of ‘Sadhguru Sar’, a fascinating new series with the spiritual guru, Sadhguru, that promises to enlighten and inspire the listeners.

    Our listeners will have the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the profound insights of Sadhguru, an acclaimed spiritual master renowned for his transformative teachings.

    Each episode will delve into crucial topics such as relationships, complexities of life, success, mental health and spirituality providing invaluable guidance and direction for leading a healthy and happy life.

    It promises to illuminate different facets of life through engaging discussions and practical wisdom. Each capsule will highlight a unique aspect, inviting listeners to explore timeless perspectives that can enrich the daily experiences.

  • Nidhi Saxena’s ‘Sad Letters of an Imaginary Woman’ unveils official poster and trailer

    Nidhi Saxena’s ‘Sad Letters of an Imaginary Woman’ unveils official poster and trailer

    Mumbai: Nidhi Saxena’s highly anticipated directorial debut, ‘Sad Letters of an Imaginary Woman’, has unveiled its compelling poster and trailer, heightening excitement for its world premiere at the 29th Busan International Film Festival this October 2024. This announcement follows Saxena’s remarkable achievement of winning the Asian Cinema Fund 2024, making her the first Indian female director to receive this prestigious accolade in the post-production category. Produced by Nila Madhab Panda, Vimukthi Jayasundara, and Ajender Chawla, the film navigates the delicate interplay between memory and reality, capturing the complexities of longing and loss.

    The trailer immerses the audience into the haunting world of a decaying ancestral home, where middle-aged Nidhi and her elderly mother Meera confront their intertwined destinies. Through poignant letters and imaginary conversations with her younger self, Nidhi faces the scars of her past, striving to rewrite her life-story. As the crumbling walls echo their emotional turmoil, the duo seeks freedom through a mystical vanishing ritual. The evocative trailer of the film takes the viewers through the journey of resilience, emotional survival, and the desire for escape.

    Says Nidhi Saxena, “My film is now stepping into the world, and though there’s a sense of thrill, my film is deeply personal, so there’s an undercurrent of fear also. It feels as if I’ve laid down all my defences, standing bare, exposed before the world, consciously choosing to embrace both vulnerability and courage. The trailer and poster capture the suffocating loneliness and the feeling of being trapped— echoes running through this story’s heart. It’s about women bound by memory, lost in the past. In India, so many women carry this silence, and I hope the film speaks to them in ways that feel intimate and true”.

    Says Vimukthi Jayasundara, “Bringing ‘Sad Letters by an Imaginary Woman’ to life has been a fantastic journey, with every frame filled with embracing boldness and experimentation. It is deeply personal and the kind of pure, uncompromising cinema that I stand for. At the same time, this was Nidhi’s debut, so it indeed might prove to be a bold risk taken at a very initial level, but this is what I call ‘pure cinema’, it challenges the norms and dares to be different. It is not an easy path, but that’s what makes this experience so thrilling. I am proud to back such a unique and powerful story”. 

  • Disney Star India in shortlist for SportsPro OTT awards

    Disney Star India in shortlist for SportsPro OTT awards

    MUMBAI: There’s good news for Disney Star India. Its tech innovations have got a pat on the back from the leading streaming awards for –  the SportsPro OTT awards.

    The company’s streaming service has been shortlisted in the categories of innovation and platform of the year and for its marketing strategy while Star Sports has found a mention among the toppers in the use of artificial intelligence.

    Disney+Hotstar worked with the ICC to introduce Max View during the World Cup – which allows users to switch to a vertical view, maximizing the screen space for a more immersive experience. This innovation has been shortlisted in the innovation of the year category.

    The streamer recorded peak viewership numbers of 5.9 crore viewers during the World Cup final between India and Australia, which required deft engineering excellence. The SportsPro OTT Awards have recognised this effort by shortlisting Disney+Hotstar  in the platform of the year category (from a network) for managing this humungous traffic using cutting edge technologies.

    Its marketing campaign for the World Cup 2023 which resulted in it never seen before cumulative viewers  through its messaging “One Platform, One Nation: Online India Comes Together for Cricket World Cup 2023” has been placed in the shortlist of the marketing category.

    Finally, Star Sports  use of artificial intelligence to translate international cricketers commentary into Indian regional languages has got a mention in the best use of AI category.

    The awards, which were created by leading UK-based  publication SportsProMedia, have a jury consisting of executives from some of the top sports firms including Formula 1, IMG Sports, SailGP, Dazn, among many others.