Category: iWorld

  • Watcho exclusively premieres the thriller series ‘Oh My Wife!’

    Watcho exclusively premieres the thriller series ‘Oh My Wife!’

    Mumbai: Watcho Exclusives, the OTT platform from Dish TV India Limited, is set to wrap up 2023 on a high note with the launch of yet another entertaining original series – ‘ Oh My Wife!’ produced by Shaurya Singh, ‘Oh My Wife!’ is a suspense thriller series, which is written and directed by Shaurya Singh. The series features an ensemble cast including Mudasir Bhatt, Lokesh Batta, Sneha Singh Sisodia, and Deepanshi N Shakya in pivotal roles.

    The story follows Vivek, a skilled forensic expert, as he navigates through personal turmoil while tackling a high-profile murder case. Balancing professional challenges and personal demons, Vivek faces a twist when suspicions arise about his wife. As he investigates potential suspects, Vivek becomes uncertain about his wife’s intentions, leading him on a suspenseful journey to uncover the truth. The series keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, posing the ultimate question: Is Vivek’s wife hiding something sinister, or is the killer someone else entirely? The gripping narrative unfolds with each episode, leaving audiences guessing until the very end.

    Throughout the year, Watcho Exclusives has streamed with a captivating array of original series, including Luck Shots, Aarambh, GillHarry, Explosive, The Morning Show, Manghadant, Avaidh, and Jaunpur, among others. Launched in 2019, the OTT platform has established itself as a go-to destination for entertaining content. Now, with the release of ‘Oh My Wife!’, it is elevating the entertainment quotient further.

    Actor Mudasir Bhatt, who plays the titular role of Vivek, opened up about his experience and said, “Playing a forensic expert in ‘Oh My Wife!’ has been quite a journey. I got into the nitty-gritty of forensic science, read books, and binged a bunch of content to get the hang of it. When I first read the script, I was hooked on the story. I couldn’t wait to find out who the killer was and what secrets Sujata was hiding. Sure, I had my moments of doubt and nerves about pulling it off, but the script and the character’s depth grabbed me, and I knew I had to take on the challenge. Moreover, Watcho Exclusives’ commitment to unique storytelling and compelling narratives got me excited. It’s been a wild ride, and I can’t wait for everyone to check it out!”

    Actress Sneha Singh Sisodia, who plays Vivek’s wife – Sujata in the series, shared,”To step into Sujata’s shoes, I dug deep into her secrets, fears, and the tricky act of pretending. The gripping story and the chance to explore a character with hidden layers pulled me to this Watcho Exclusives series. As an actress, I connect with the mystery and vulnerability she has. It’s a role that keeps me alert. While I may not have her secrets, I understand the depth she adds to the story. I hope the audience enjoys the suspense in ‘Oh My Wife!’ as much as I loved bringing this character to life.”

    Join Vivek in solving this intriguing mystery and uncover the truth by tuning in to ‘Oh My Wife!’ available exclusively on Watcho. Don’t miss out on the suspense and drama – it’s a journey you won’t want to skip!

    Watch ‘Oh My Wife!’ on Watcho, accessible across multiple devices including Fire TV Stick, Dish SMRT Hub, D2h Magic, Android, and iOS smartphones, or online at www.WATCHO.com

  • Vi launches Rs 3199 annual plan: Prime Video, unlimited calls, and more!

    Vi launches Rs 3199 annual plan: Prime Video, unlimited calls, and more!

    Mumbai: India’s leading telecom service provider Vi has introduced a new annual prepaid recharge pack priced at Rs 3199, bringing Amazon Prime video subscription bundled with its recharges for the first time to its prepaid customers. This comprehensive offering is designed to provide Vi prepaid users with an unparalleled blend of connectivity and entertainment. Vi is the only telecom player to offer as many benefits built into an annual plan at the lowest in category tariff of Rs 3199.

    Tailored for today’s digital lifestyle, Vi’s Rs.3199 recharge pack provides subscribers with unlimited Calls, 2GB Data per Day and a one-year subscription to Amazon Prime Video mobile edition. This exclusive OTT benefit ensures that prepaid customers can now enjoy a diverse range of entertainment content ranging from latest movies, TV shows & Amazon originals, on the go.

    Additional features of this recharge pack include unlimited national calls, daily quota of 100 SMS, weekend data rollover, and binge-free between 12:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m. enabling hassle-free conversations and messaging.

    This launch has further strengthened its existing OTT portfolio:

    Vi users can recharge with new Rs 3199 pack on the Vi App/ website or at the nearest Vi store.

  • Five must-watch movies & series to celebrate the festive season

    Five must-watch movies & series to celebrate the festive season

    Mumbai: It’s the season of twinkling lights, snug blankets, and the irresistible aroma of hot chocolate wafting through the air. As the festive spirit of Christmas wraps, what could be more delightful than cozying up with a steaming mug of cocoa and diving into a captivating selection of movies and shows on our beloved OTT platforms? So, let’s kickstart the holiday cheer with a unique flavor to make this festive season truly unforgettable.

    Here is the list of  five shows/movies to binge-watch this season:

    1.    Reacher Season 2 (Series):

    Plunge into the world of action, drama, and thrill with Reacher Season 2, where the stakes are higher and vengeance looms on the horizon. It unfolds as members of Reacher’s former military unit mysteriously meet their demise. Gripped by a singular purpose, revenge, Reacher portrayed by Alan Ritchson, navigates a labyrinth of secrets, conspiracies, and danger. Premiered with three episodes from the latest season on Prime Video with weekly episode releases, the final episode will be streaming on 19 January.

    2.    A Storm for Christmas (Series):

    Enter the gripping story of A Storm For Christmas, where destinies intertwined amidst extreme weather, trapping travelers and workers at an airport. Helmed by creator Per-Olav Sørensen, this captivating series unfolds as individuals from diverse backgrounds find themselves forced to spend the final hours leading up to Christmas together. Starring Ida Elise Broch, Dennis Storhøi, and Jan Gunnar Røise, the series is now streaming on Netflix.

    3.    Candy Cane Lane (Film):

    Light up the season with this family-friendly holiday comedy exclusively on Prime Video!  Directed by Reginald Hudlin, this festive film follows Eddie Murphy as he strikes a unique pact with an elf to ensure his triumph. Little does he anticipate that this mischievous elf’s spell would bring the classic ‘12 days of Christmas’ to life, transforming the town into a delightful hub of unexpected surprises and festive pandemonium.

    4.    Dashing Through the Snow (Film):

    Embark on a heartwarming journey with Dashing Through the Snow, where the life of a separated social worker for the Atlanta police department takes an unexpected turn during Christmas. This touching story brims with the delight and enchantment of the season, set against a backdrop of unexpected connections and newfound understanding. Embracing the holiday spirit with this film, watch it now as it is available to stream on Disney+ Hotstar.

    5.    Merry Little Batman (Film):

    Take a festive leap into the animated realm with Merry Little Batman, a 2023 American superhero film directed by Mike Roth. Penned by Morgan Evans and Jase Ricci, with a storyline crafted by Evans and Roth, this cinematic delight is a DC Comics adaptation featuring the iconic characters Batman and his son Damian Wayne. Voiced by a stellar cast including Yonas Kibreab, Luke Wilson, James Cromwell, and David Hornsby, the film unfolds as Damian finds himself thrust into action against the Joker’s sinister plot to spoil Christmas in Gotham City. Released on 8 December 2023, exclusively on Prime Video.

    As we bid adieu to the cozy days and festive nights of 2023, it’s evident that this year has gifted us a treasure of content across genres. From heartwarming tales like Candy Cane Lane to the gripping narratives of Reacher Season 2, the streaming services have truly been our holiday elves, delivering cinematic joy to our screens. Let’s raise a mug to a year filled with diverse stories, compelling characters, and the boundless magic of the silver screen.

  • Santa’s picks: Seven shows to make your holidays merry & bright!

    Santa’s picks: Seven shows to make your holidays merry & bright!

    Mumbai: As the winter chill embraces our homes and the scent of joy fills the air, it’s time to cozy up with a cup of hot chocolate and dive right into the festive season. What better way to celebrate than embarking on a marathon of festive shows that promise laughter, love, and a sprinkle of the holiday cheer? From thrillers to amusing comedies, we have curated a list that will capture the essence of Christmas for you. May your days be merry, your binge sessions be jolly, and your heart be light with the magic of the season!

    Mistletoe Murders

    Platform: Audible

    Excited to experience a Christmas that isn’t just about jingle bells and mistletoe but a thrilling escapade filled with mystery, romance, and laughter? This audiobook is the right pick for you. Join Emily Lane, the owner of ‘Under the Mistletoe,’ in a quaint town where her Christmas-themed store becomes the backdrop for not-so-quaint local murders. Tune into this Audible mystery where Emily’s charming exterior conceals a secret past, and Detective-Constable Sam Wilner wonders if there’s more to her than meets the eye. This audiobook promises a holiday-themed thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

    The Christmas Guest

    Platform: Audible

    Experience the enchanting Cotswolds manor house through the eyes of Ashley Smith, a lonely American studying in London, invited to spend Christmas at the manor. Documented in her diary, Ashley’s idyllic holiday takes a mysterious turn with the Chapman family and the secrets that lurk within the old manor. Is there something strange about the old house? What could the motives of the mysterious Chapman family be? And what holiday horrors might be lying in wait? This audiobook promises a perfect blend of romance, suspense, and holiday magic that will keep you hooked from the first chapter to the last.

    Bright Lights, Big Christmas

    Platform: Audible

    For those yearning to hear a feel-good Christmas story, ‘Bright Lights, Big Christmas’ on Audible offers a delightful mix of country charm and city magic. Follow Kerry Tolliver as she trades the mountains of North Carolina for the bustling streets of New York City during the Christmas season, ready to try to carve out a new corner for herself. With family ties, quirky neighbours, and unexpected romance, Kerry’s adventure is a delightful mix of country charm and urban romance. This audiobook is a perfect choice for those seeking a Christmas story with a touch of humour and romance!

    Elf Me

    Platform: Amazon Prime

    There is no stop to browsing what you can watch this Christmas. Get ready for a laugh-out-loud comedy with ’Elf Me’! In this film, you will meet Trip, an unconventional elf, on a hilarious journey as Santa Claus’ not-so-traditional helper. Teaming up with Elia, a shy and unconventional boy, Trip discovers the true meaning of friendship. It is a heartwarming tale filled with humour, magic, and the spirit of Christmas, which makes for a must-watch this holiday season.

    Your Christmas or Mine 2

    Platform: Amazon Prime

    The holiday hurley-burly continues with Hayley Taylor and Hubert James Hughes in this uproarious Amazon Prime sequel. Join them for another uproarious family Christmas filled with laughter and chaos. This much-anticipated sequel promises to deliver the perfect blend of comedy and heartwarming moments, making it a perfect watch for those looking to continue the festive fun.

    Christmas as Usual

    Platform: Netflix

    In time for the holiday season—a cultural clash wrapped in festive cheer, ‘Christmas as Usual’ on Netflix unfolds the chaos when Indian roots meet Norwegian traditions. In this film, you can join Thea, portrayed by Ida Ursin-Holm, and Jashan, played by stand-up comic Kanan Gill, as they navigate the mayhem that ensues when Indian roots meet Norwegian traditions during Christmas. This romantic comedy, straight from the Nordic region, promises laughs, love, and a celebration of diverse holiday customs.

    Family Switch

    Platform: Netflix

    In this chaotic Christmas comedy, the Walker family experiences a pre-holiday upheaval when a cosmic event swaps parents with their teenage kids. The film is a comedic rollercoaster headlined by Jennifer Garner and Brady Noon, adding a festive twist to the body-swap genre. Jennifer portrays Jess Walker, the meticulous and organized mother who discovers that her way isn’t always the best for everyone. Get ready for laughs and moments of plunging into pandemonium in this Netflix holiday special.

  • NH Studioz to release ‘Ittu Si Baat’ on Amazon Prime

    NH Studioz to release ‘Ittu Si Baat’ on Amazon Prime

    Mumbai: This Christmas, NH Studioz is set to spread cinematic magic on your holiday season with the worldwide release of the Bollywood rom-com, ‘Ittu Si Baat’, on Amazon Prime. Available from 24 December in an extraordinary 35 languages, this delightful film promises to warm hearts across the globe, making it a perfect addition to your festive celebrations.

    Creatively helmed by Lakshman Utekar and produced in collaboration with Kathputali Creations, ‘Ittu Si Baat‘ is more than just a movie – it is a celebration of love, dreams, and the simple joys of life. Set against the charming backdrop of Chunar, near Varanasi, the film invites viewers into a world where first love blossoms and dreams take flight.

    NH Studioz director Shreyans Hirawat said “ As families gather around the world to celebrate Christmas, we are excited to offer ‘Ittu Si Baat’ as a gift that transcends borders and languages. It is something that the entire family can watch together. This film, with its universal theme of love and aspiration, resonates with the spirit of the season and is sure to bring smiles and warmth to our viewers.”

    Starring Bhupendra Jadawat and Gayatri Bhardwaj along with a stellar supporting cast, the film has already earned acclaim for its engaging storytelling and memorable performances. It is a story that speaks to everyone, reminding us of the power of love and the importance of chasing our dreams.

    NH Studioz to present this charming tale on a global stage, making it accessible to a vast audience in a myriad of languages. The film is a testament to the studio’s commitment to sharing the beauty of Indian cinema with the world.

    “With ‘Ittu Si Baat’, we invite viewers to embrace the holiday spirit and enjoy a story that is as heartwarming as it is entertaining. This is our Christmas present to you – a story to cherish, in a language you love.” added Shreyans.

  • YouTube launched a new content system tools for Indian creators

    YouTube launched a new content system tools for Indian creators

    Mumbai: YouTube announced good news for podcasters and content creators in India. YouTube launches some new features for the customisation of content creation. YouTube made a new user-friendly UI with digital infrastructure to provide a new-age customer experience.

    For that matter, YouTube rolled out new features that inculcate attractive features like stories, opinions, and insights with podcast enthusiasts. Creators can easily roll out content through YouTube Studios and YouTube Music. It will allow users to have direct engagement with podcasters and consume content at per convenience. The podcast will be available on YouTube Music.

    Podcasters also get benefits out of ad revenue by podcasting monetisation. It will also be available for on-demand, offline, and background listening; this will benefit podcasters through subscription plans.Google plans to close the Google podcast in April 2024.

    YouTube also provides a platform to collaborate with sponsored content. Despite a plan to close Google Podcast, Google will build a music and podcast ecosystem with one single app.

    Google-backed YouTube has been running successfully in India for many years and is contributing to the economy significantly.As per Oxford Economics, YouTube said that more than 7 lakh creators and partners collaborated with them.

    YouTube additionally introduced the feature ‘ Podcast Shelves’ on YouTube music for better navigation access.

     

  • BookMyShow, Hombale Films, partner with DressMe to create AI fan experience for Salaar

    BookMyShow, Hombale Films, partner with DressMe to create AI fan experience for Salaar

    Mumbai: The highly anticipated Prabhas-starrer, Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire releasing on Friday, 22 December 2023 has fans buzzing with excitement as tickets for the film have been selling out in anticipation across the country. To add to the frenzy of this two-part mega movie production, BookMyShow, India’s entertainment destination along with makers of Salaar, Hombale Films partnered with DressMe, an AI-Virtual Stylist to offer an AI-driven unique fan experience. The partnership will offer a unique opportunity to fans to step into the persona of their favourite cinematic superheroes from the world of Salaar – Deva and Vardharaja Mannar, as they get to reimagine themselves in the avatars of their superstars, Prabhas and Prithviraj Sukumaran.

    Fans will be able to position themselves through the various avatars of Deva and Vardharaja Mannar, diving into the world of Salaar while they embody their favourite character. Once they try out their new virtual identity, fans can even share their cool avatar on social media platforms, creating a community for the production.

    BookMyShow will leverage its user base of young, discerning audiences across the length and breadth of the country to reach out to cinephiles nationally, inviting them to the Salaar Army with the avatar of their favourite superheroes from the film. Through various channels like social media platforms, push notifications and emailers, BookMyShow will guide fans to the microsite www.salaar.dressmeofficial.com, powered by DressMe. Here, users can create their avatars of beloved superheroes from the film and be redirected to BookMyShow to get their tickets for this highly anticipated movie.

    Commenting on the anticipation surrounding the film and this special fan experience, BookMyShow COO- cinemas Ashish Saksena said, “Salaar’s period action drama has generated tremendous excitement and love from across the country. On BookMyShow, the movie has crossed 1.7 million tickets in advance sales with cinephiles across South India and action-fans across the rest of the country gearing up for the much-anticipated magnum opus. Through this collaboration with Hombale Films and DressMe, we are glad to be able to offer hardened fans a technological flavour to show their love and excitement for the film through this fan-first engagement experience. We are optimistic that the extravaganza directed by Prashanth Neel and helmed by Prabhas is all set to create magic at the box office and we can’t wait for cinephiles across the country to be able to experience the flavour of the film beyond the big screen on our platform with their favourite movie avatars as well!”

    Adding to this, DressMe CEO Deepak Mangla said, “At Dressme, we believe generative AI is going to completely transform the way fans will connect and engage with movies in future. Through this partnership with Hombale Films and BookMyShow, Salaar becomes amongst the first movies to incorporate Dressme’s AI technology with not only ‘the most violent man’ but also ‘the most innovative men’ from the world of Salaar. Being able to connect with cinephiles from across the country on BookMyShow and offer them a chance to engage with the film beyond watching it on the big screen is something we are very excited for and we can’t wait for fans to connect with this new way of experiencing the film!”

  • Airtel Xstream Play partners with aha Telugu and Tamil

    Airtel Xstream Play partners with aha Telugu and Tamil

    Mumbai: Bharti Airtel (“Airtel”), India’s premier communications solutions provider, today, announced that Airtel Xstream Play, India’s fastest-growing OTT aggregator service with over five million paid subscribers, will now offer aha Tamil and Telugu to its subscribers.

    aha OTT, a joint venture between Allu Arvind’s Geeta Arts and My Home Group was launched in 2020 and is one of the fastest-growing regional OTT platforms in the country. aha provides a diverse array of original content, encompassing 750 plus films and 40 plus original shows besides talk shows and reality TV.

    Commenting on the collaboration, Airtel Digital CEO Adarsh Nair said, “We welcome team aha on to our platform and look forward to collaborating with them and taking their content across the length and breadth of India. Over the years, we have observed regional content gain prominence and transcend the barriers of language within India. aha’s addition will not just get the best in Tamil and Telugu content to the audiences in TN, AP and Telangana but also to discerning audiences elsewhere in the country. At Airtel Xstream Play, as the largest OTT aggregator in the country, we remain committed to being a trusted partner for OTT players and helping them solve for discovery, pricing and other challenges.”

    Speaking about the partnership, aha Sr VP and head-SVOD and business strategy Rakesh CK said, “We are pleased to unveil this strategic collaboration with Airtel Xstream, marking a significant stride in our ongoing mission to be in every Telugu and Tamil household. We hope that the partnership with Airtel Xstream will enhance our reach and impact, helping us tap into a broader audience. Together, we are committed to redefining the entertainment experience, ensuring that our exclusive content resonates profoundly with viewers.”

    Airtel Xstream Play offers India’s largest bouquet of OTT content aggregated on a single app. Airtel subscribers can have access to premium content from partners such as Sony LIV, Lionsgate Play, Chaupal, Hoichoi, FanCode, ManoramaMax, ShemarooMe, Alt Balaji, Ultra, ErosNow, EPICon, Docubay, Playflix, etc. and can watch 40,000+ movie titles and shows from 20 content partners on the Airtel Xstream app with a minimum recharge of Rs. 148.

  • ZEE5 Global rolled out a campaign titled ‘The Great ZEE5 Giveaway’ which offers guaranteed gifts

    ZEE5 Global rolled out a campaign titled ‘The Great ZEE5 Giveaway’ which offers guaranteed gifts

    Mumbai: In a special holiday season initiative, ZEE5 Global, the streaming service for South Asian content, has rolled out a campaign titled ‘The Great ZEE5 Giveaway’ which offers guaranteed gifts ranging from gift vouchers to vacations for US consumers on purchase of its 4K packs or add-on packs.

    Launched in association with the online South Asian marketplace in the US, Quickly, the Gift cards rewards partner, the consumer giveback program was announced during the recent launch of ZEE5 Global Add-ons – a strategic move to aggregate multiple South Asian streaming platforms on the ZEE5 Global platform. This initiative will offer a one-stop destination to consumers for easy and seamless access to their favourite South Asian content.

    With this limited period offer timed especially with the holiday season, subscribers can participate in a new year sweepstakes for a chance to win vacations to Hawaii, wireless headphones, tablets, smartwatches and more. In addition, every subscriber gets a guaranteed gift voucher worth $10 with a ZEE5 4K monthly subscription and $40 with an annual subscription.

    ZEE5 Global chief business officer Archana Anand said, “It’s been a huge year for us here in the US as we’ve become the leading South Asian streaming platform in the shortest possible time and it’s all on the back of the massive love from our consumers.  To say thank you and express our gratitude, we’re now looking to delight our consumers through multiple initiatives. From the recently launched ZEE5 Add-ons which will simplify how they subscribe to and access their South Asian content now on a single platform, to offering guaranteed rewards with every subscription in partnership with another key South Asian brand, Quicklly, as well as a chance to win exciting Hawaii vacations and other gifts in our upcoming New Year sweepstakes, we want to ensure that this holiday season is even more memorable with ZEE5 Global.”

    Sharing about the partnership COO of Quicklly Inc Pritesh Velankar said, “At Quicklly, we are thrilled to collaborate with ZEE5 Global to bring a unique blend of entertainment and cultural convenience to our users. With our aligned mission and values, we believe this is just the beginning of a partnership that will redefine the way people engage with their favourite entertainment, flavours and fashion from the comforts of their home.”

    ZEE5 Global Add-ons is available across platforms like Android, iOS, www.zee5.com, Fire TV, Apple TV, Roku, and Samsung TVs.

    For more information on the campaign, please visit https://www.zee5.com/global/blog/the-great-zee5-consumer-giveaway/

  • JioCinema and Jeevansathi join hands to unleash the power of love with ‘Saath By Chance’

    JioCinema and Jeevansathi join hands to unleash the power of love with ‘Saath By Chance’

    Mumbai: Viacom18 and entertainment destination, JioCinema, partners with Jeevansathi.com, a trailblazer in the matchmaking industry, to delight its viewers with ‘Saath By Chance’. Streaming now on JioCinema, the 3 episodic anthology series weaves the magic of love with inspiration drawn from real-life success stories of Jeevansathi couples.

    Celebrating Jeevansathi’s 25 years of matchmaking excellence, ‘Saath By Chance’ promises to be a heartwarming journey of real-life love stories that found their origin on the Jeevansathi.com platform. From chance encounters to enduring connections, the show spotlights the authenticity and beauty of love, commitment, and the remarkable journey of finding one’s soulmate. In addition to the captivating narratives, ‘Saath By Chance’ underscores the significance of quality conversations, understanding, and open dialogue, a core aspect of Jeevansathi.com’s ethos.

    Speaking on the association, a JioCinema spokesperson said, “At JioCinema, our commitment is to curate content that is not just entertaining but also innovative and compelling. ‘Saath By Chance’ is a testament to this dedication, as it unfolds a narrative that celebrates the magic of love in a truly unique way. In partnering with Jeevansathi.com, we aim to create a seamless blend of entertainment and connection, resonating with our audiences on a deeper level. Our collaboration further represents our ongoing pursuit to bring stories that directly touch the hearts of our viewers. We look forward to fostering more such partnerships and continuing to provide our audience with captivating content that transcends boundaries and brings people together in the spirit of love and storytelling.”

    Speaking on the association, Jeevansathi.com EVP & head of marketing Himani Bahuguna said, “Jeevansathi.com has always stood for creating meaningful connections, and ‘Saath By Chance’ is a testament to the incredible stories that have unfolded on our platform over the past 25 years. Each episode will bring to life the genuine, heartwarming narratives of couples who discovered love through Jeevansathi.com’s superior matching algorithms.”

    Streaming now on JioCinema, ‘Saath By Chance’ promises to be a binge-worthy experience, offering a blend of romance, emotion, and authenticity.