ITV

Category: Box Populi

  • Pvr Inox serves up India’s first luxury dine-in cinema in Bengaluru

    Pvr Inox serves up India’s first luxury dine-in cinema in Bengaluru

    MUMBAI: Lights, camera… appetiser! PVR Inox is giving Bengaluru’s cinema-goers a taste of something extraordinary with the launch of India’s first-ever luxury dine-in cinema at M5 Ecity Mall, where silver screens meet silver service.

    Fresh off opening its new eight screen multiplex at the mall, Pvr Inox is now transforming the movie experience into a full-fledged culinary and lifestyle destination. The new dine-in format lets guests enjoy gourmet, chef-curated meals in the comfort of their cinema seats, no stepping out, and remarkably, no movie ticket required to dine.

    The concept redefines what a night at the movies means. From Crosta’s artisanal pizzas and Wokstar’s sizzling Asian comfort food to Dogfather’s inventive hot dogs and Local Street’s regional delicacies, every dish is designed to elevate the cinematic journey. Add to that café corners, indulgent desserts, and lounge-style foyers and the venue doubles as a social space for foodies and film buffs alike.

    At the heart of this venture lies “youthification”, Pvr Inox’s futuristic approach to entertainment. The space integrates gaming zones, kids-first formats, and digital lounges, alongside its luxury auditoriums, appealing to young, experience-hungry audiences. “This is not just about watching films, it’s about spending time well,” said Pvr Inox lead specialist – innovation, film marketing & digital programming Aamer Bijli.

    Echoing the sentiment, Pvr Inox Limited  managing director Ajay Bijli added, “With M5 Ecity Mall, we’re inviting audiences to experience cinema in an entirely new way. From India’s first dine-in auditorium to immersive technology and curated food, it’s a celebration of films, lifestyle, and shared moments.”

    The tech is as grand as the gastronomy. Every auditorium boasts Dolby Atmos, Dts:x, and 4k Laser projection, with the Big Pix theatre offering Reald 3D visuals, and the Samsung Onyx Led screen taking in-seat dining to dazzling new heights.

  • PVR Inox brings India–Pak final to 100 plus big screens

    PVR Inox brings India–Pak final to 100 plus big screens

    MUMBAI: Popcorn, cheers and nail-biting overs, cricket’s fiercest rivalry is ready for its close-up. PVR Inox is turning the Asia Cup 2025 final between India and Pakistan into a cinematic spectacle, screening the clash live on 28 September across more than 100 cinema halls nationwide.

    Partnering with ITW Universe and the Asian Cricket Council, PVR Inox is offering fans an ad-free, stadium-like atmosphere, only this time with Dolby sound and plush recliners. Earlier India–Pakistan matches saw audiences clap, chant and celebrate in unison, recreating the charged energy of the stands.

    “The screenings have shown us how deeply cricket connects our audiences,” said PVR Inox lead specialist – innovation, film marketing & digital programming Aamer Bijli. “It’s about creating an experience where fans feel every roar, every wicket and every boundary as if they were inside the stadium itself.”

    The India–Pakistan final promises high drama, unforgettable gameplay and the kind of intensity that only this rivalry delivers. With tickets already live, fans are being urged to book fast to secure a seat for what promises to be more than just a match, a community celebration on the big screen.

  • Cinemas script a blockbuster September with wonders on and off screen

    Cinemas script a blockbuster September with wonders on and off screen

    MUMBAI: Lights, camera, September! The festive week has given Indian cinemas their long-awaited full house feeling, with audiences flocking back for blockbusters across languages and genres. From Bollywood action to Malayalam family dramas, Tamil thrillers and Hollywood horrors, the country’s multiplexes have been buzzing with energy.

    At PVR Inox, the numbers tell a story of revival. Hindi action spectacle Bhaagi 4 opened with 45 per cent occupancy, Malayalam release Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra topped charts at 74 per cent, and Onam special Hridayapoorvaam struck a chord with families. Tamil entry Madharasi began strong with 45 per cent, while Hollywood’s The Conjuring: The Last Rites lured genre fans with 47 per cent occupancy.

    “With this mix of Bollywood blockbusters, regional successes and international titles, September is shaping up to be one of the most exciting months for cinema lovers,” said PVR Inox Ltd CEO for revenue & operations Gautam Dutta.

    Riding this momentum, the multiplex giant is rolling out its Weekend of Wonders, a six-film line-up that promises something for every taste.

    ●    Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale, a poignant farewell to the Crawley family saga, set in the 1930s.

    ●    The Heer Express, a Punjabi drama of resilience, belonging and hope, as a young woman starts anew in the UK.

    ●    Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Infinity Castle, the anime blockbuster making its IMAX debut in India.

    ●    The Long Walk, Stephen King’s dystopian survival thriller directed by Francis Lawrence.

    ●    Ek Chatur Naar, a sharp comedy-thriller with Divya Khosla and Neil Nitin Mukesh, full of twists.

    ●    Mirai, a Telugu fantasy epic starring Teja Sajja as a “Super Yodha”, blending mythology with futuristic battles.

    With IMAX, 4DX, and Screenx formats across India, PVR Inox is betting big on immersive experiences to match the scale of storytelling.

    Six films, six worlds, and one cinematic carnival, September isn’t just about the festive season anymore, it’s about the big screen roaring back to life.

  • Akash Cinema returns as Miraj opens luxe 3-screen multiplex in Delhi

    Akash Cinema returns as Miraj opens luxe 3-screen multiplex in Delhi

    DELHI: From 1987 to 2016, Akash Cinema lit up North Delhi’s weekends with whistles, popcorn, and paisa-vasool drama. Now, the beloved single-screen theatre has found its second act and it’s dressed to impress. Miraj Cinemas, India’s third-largest multiplex chain, has launched a plush new property at the historic Akash Cinema Complex in Azadpur, reviving an icon while upgrading it with modern flair.

    The newly unveiled three-screen multiplex is a tribute to the venue’s glorious past and a leap into cinema’s luxe future. With a total of 427 seats across three screens (Audi 1 – 239 seats, Audi 2 – 94, Audi 3 – 94), the Azadpur location is fitted with 2K digital projection, Dolby surround sound, and immersive 3D tech. Say goodbye to neck strain and cramped knees hello to wide-cushioned seats, plush legroom, and unblocked views.

    “This isn’t just a multiplex, it’s a tribute to a venue where countless film memories were made,” said Miraj Entertainment Ltd managing director Bhuvanesh Mendiratta. “We’re incredibly proud to give the iconic Akash Cinema a new lease of life. Azadpur now has a destination that’s deeply nostalgic yet boldly future-ready.”

    Indeed, stepping into the new Miraj Cinemas Azadpur is like walking onto a movie set. Art Deco patterns, ambient lighting, and marble flooring set the tone, while stylish wall textures and a glowy ceiling elevate the experience. Even the restrooms are a design statement sleek, spotless, and modern. The cosy lobby lounge doubles up as a photo-op zone, perfect for pre-show selfies and starry-eyed anticipation.

    And for those who judge a cinema by its snacks (as they should), the revamped Akash delivers blockbuster bites. The venue features two curated F&B zones, Chef’s Corner and Pop Corner.

    At Chef’s Corner, it’s all about flavour-forward street bites and gourmet plates: think paneer tikka wraps, loaded cheese fries, dim sums, and grilled delights, all cooked fresh in a live kitchen setup. Meanwhile, Pop Corner brings the classics buttery popcorn, crispy nachos, chilled sodas, and Miraj combo deals. All food is prepared in-house by a team of chefs, maintaining the high standard Miraj is now known for.

    This marks Miraj’s fourth multiplex in Delhi, expanding its footprint in the capital while staying rooted in cinematic heritage.

    “We’ve taken great care to preserve the legacy while crafting a space that delivers on luxury, technology, and hospitality,” added Mendiratta.

    Whether you’re headed for a weekend blockbuster, a late-night binge, or a romantic movie date, this cinema has you covered technically, visually, and gastronomically.

    Bookings are open on Miraj Cinemas’ website and mobile app, but if you’re thinking of walking in expect more than just a film. Expect a revival. Expect a cinematic escape. Expect Akash 2.0.

    Because at Miraj Azadpur, nostalgia has had a glow-up and it’s ready for its close-up.

  • Capping ticket prices could be the blockbuster move India needs

    Capping ticket prices could be the blockbuster move India needs

    MUMBAI: Lights, camera… exit? For many Indian cinemagoers, that’s the current script thanks to ticket prices that have crept from “reasonable” to “ridiculous.” With average Hindi movie tickets hovering around Rs 203, a family outing to the movies now rivals a restaurant bill. It’s no surprise then that India’s total cinema footfalls in 2023 dropped to 88.3 crore, down six per cent year-on-year despite record-breaking hits.

    Now compare that to states that have capped ticket prices. In Karnataka, a Rs 200 ceiling (inclusive of taxes) has been formally introduced across all formats, aiming to widen access and stabilise footfalls. Tamil Nadu continues to enforce an effective price limit of Rs 150 (excluding GST), especially for regional films. Andhra Pradesh has a structured pricing framework where regular seats are capped at Rs 177 and recliners at Rs 295, with special government permissions needed for hikes. Meanwhile, Telangana sets Rs 295 as the multiplex cap, but with a softer hand that allows occasional hikes.

    These capped states, many of which are strongholds for south Indian cinema actually offer a crucial insight. Despite lower average ticket prices (ATP- as low as Rs 94–Rs106 for Telugu and Tamil films), these industries continue to deliver some of India’s highest-grossing films. Pushpa, RRR, and Leo weren’t powered by premium pricing they were powered by massive turnout. Volume over margin, and accessibility over exclusivity, has been the winning formula.

    Now contrast that with the Hindi film industry’s ATP of Rs 203. While Bollywood does see big openings, the high price point restricts repeat viewing and deters casual audiences. When a movie ticket costs nearly as much as a one-month OTT subscription, families weigh their choices and increasingly choose the sofa.

    A nationwide cap  of Rs 150 for regular seats, Rs 200 for premium, across all languages wouldn’t just level the playing field, it could dramatically boost footfalls for Hindi films, which continue to rely heavily on urban, multiplex markets. Lowering the barrier to entry could reopen the gates to India’s vast middle-class audience. Let’s not forget: a single Rs 100 ticket sold to 1,000 people earns more than a Rs 300 ticket sold to 200.

    Even with a cap on ticket prices, theatres and multiplexes can continue to thrive by shifting focus from high-margin tickets to high-volume footfalls and diversified revenue streams. More affordable prices draw in larger crowds, especially families and repeat viewers, creating consistent occupancy rates across weekdays and not just weekends. Multiplexes can optimise profits through premium experiences charging modest surcharges for IMAX, recliner seats, or 4DX formats while also driving revenue through food and beverage sales, branded partnerships, and on-screen advertising.

    Additionally, bundled offers, loyalty programmes, and dynamic pricing during off-peak hours can further boost margins. With lower pricing unlocking access to wider audiences, the overall revenue pie can grow not shrink by getting more bums in more seats, more often.

    An excellent case in point is Saiyaara, the breakout romantic drama that is shattering expectations at the box office not by charging more, but by charging smart. Yash Raj Films rolled out discounted pricing strategies from day one, offering Buy 1 Get 1 free deals, Rs 99 weekday tickets, and up to 50 per cent off on early bookings, particularly targeting youth and family audiences. Far from cannibalising revenue, this pricing hack did the opposite Saiyaara earned over Rs 105 crore in just four days, with weekday occupancy soaring to 80 per cent in some centres, a rare feat for non-franchise films.

    The promotional pricing widened the film’s reach beyond urban cinephiles to first-time and return viewers alike. It proved that lower prices didn’t shrink earnings, they supercharged them. Instead of relying on premium ticket margins, Saiyaara leaned on volume, accessibility, and buzz making a powerful case for why affordable cinema might just be the industry’s best blockbuster strategy.

    Hindi films once thrived in single screens packed with cheering crowds. But rising costs and shifting consumption habits have turned cinema into a weekend indulgence rather than a weekly ritual. Reintroducing affordability could revive that mass magic, bringing back the audiences who made the movies matter.

    The numbers don’t lie: when tickets are cheaper, people come in droves. And that’s a happy ending the Indian film industry desperately needs.

  • India’s box office collects Rs 5723 crore in blockbuster first half of 2025

    India’s box office collects Rs 5723 crore in blockbuster first half of 2025

    MUMBAI: India’s cinemas have found their groove and the numbers are singing. The first half of 2025 has grossed Rs 5,723 crore at the domestic box office, marking a 14 per cent jump over the same period last year, according to the newly released India Box Office Report by Ormax Media. That puts it just Rs 12 crore short of the 2022 January–June record, signalling a cinema resurgence powered not by a few blockbusters, but a wide net of Rs 100 crore-plus earners.

    A total of 17 films crossed the Rs 100 crore threshold in the January–June window up from just 10 in the first half of 2024. Topping the charts by a wide margin was Chhaava, clocking in at a whopping Rs 693 crore, followed by the Telugu release Sankranthiki Vasthunam. Notably, only one film breached the ₹250 crore mark in this period, suggesting a shift from reliance on tentpole spectacles to consistent mid-sized performers.

    June wrapped up on a strong note, with monthly grosses topping ₹900 crore, thanks to titles like Sitaare Zameen Par and Housefull 5, both touching the ₹200 crore mark. Tamil-Telugu title Kuberaa and Hollywood’s F1: The Movie also revved up the box office engines.

    Hindi cinema continues to rule with 40 per cent of the total gross, mirroring its 2024 share. Telugu and Tamil films followed with 20 per cent and 15 per cent, respectively. In a welcome plot twist, Hollywood returned to double digits, breaching the 10 per cent mark for the first time since 2022.

    If the current pattern holds, 2025 is poised to close at Rs 13,500 crore, making it potentially the biggest box office year in Indian history. This hinges, of course, on the performance of the star-studded second half, which includes biggies like Kantara: Chapter 1, Avatar: Fire and Ash, War 2, Coolie, Akhanda 2, Thama, and OG.

    What’s especially noteworthy is the spread of success, this year is less about outlier mega-hits and more about a healthy, steady churn of solid performers. This could signal a structural rebound for Indian exhibition circuits, driven by a slate-first strategy instead of pinning hopes on a few blockbusters.

    Whether you’re team multiplex or mass single-screen, 2025’s box office is scripting a hit—and there’s plenty more showtime left.

  • Boom time at the box office as May grosses over Rs 1,100 crore

    Boom time at the box office as May grosses over Rs 1,100 crore

    MUMBAI: May-day magic as moviegoers power record box office collections.  When Ajay Devgn raids the screen and Tom Cruise races to the finish, you know it’s a blockbuster month. The report released by Omrax Media explains how India’s box office rang up a robust Rs 1,136 crore in May 2025, making it the second-highest-grossing month of the year so far just behind February. The cinematic surge was led by homegrown action thriller Raid 2 and Hollywood spectacle Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, which together contributed a cool 28 per cent of the month’s takings.

    Raid 2 alone punched through the Rs 200 crore barrier, earning it the crown of May’s top earner and placing it just behind Chhaava in the year’s Hindi film rankings. Meanwhile, Ethan Hunt’s final outing delivered over Rs 115 crore at the Indian box office.

    Overall, 2025 is shaping up to be a stellar year for the big screen. The cumulative domestic box office from January to May now stands at Rs 4,812 crore 27 per cent higher than the same period last year.

    May was also a Hollywood high in India. With Final Destination: Bloodlines and Thunderbolts joining Mission: Impossible in the top 10, English-language films raked in Rs 262 crore marking the best month for Hollywood here since the Barbenheimer boom of July 2023.

    Interestingly, the top 10 films so far this year span languages and industries, with four Hindi films and two each from Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam cinema. The box office is proving to be one of India’s most multilingual success stories.

    With summer in full swing and June releases lining up to impress, the only question now is can the heatwave at the box office get any hotter?

  • Blockbuster Tuesdays steal the show as India flocks to Rs 99 cinema frenzy nationwide

    Blockbuster Tuesdays steal the show as India flocks to Rs 99 cinema frenzy nationwide

    MUMBAI: Tuesday just got a turbocharged rebrand. Across India, theatres are no longer half-empty mid-week refuges for retirees or bored interns. Thanks to Cinema Day Tuesdays and Blockbuster Tuesdays—a nationwide Rs 99 ticket initiative—cinemas are now bursting at the seams, packing in popcorn-chomping fans like it’s opening night every week.

    With over 4000 screens participating, including giants like PVR Inox, Miraj Cinemas, Cinépolis India and Mukta A2 Cinemas, the scheme has sent admissions through the roof. Footfalls in many regions are now rivalling—and in some cases beating—weekend crowds.

    That’s right.

    Tuesday is the new Sunday.

    “Blockbuster Tuesdays is a result of a lot of hard work and collaboration among our industry partners… Cinemas are an indispensable part of our culture,” said Multiplex Association of India (MAI) president Kamal Gianchandani, adding that it’s more than just cheap tickets—it’s a love letter to shared storytelling.

    Miraj Cinemas is reporting footfalls equal to its Sunday crowds across metros and tier two cities. Miraj Entertainment Ltd MD Amit Sharma said, “Tuesdays are turning into a celebration for movie lovers. It’s not just about pricing—it’s about reigniting the emotional connect with cinema.”

    This Tuesday (22 April) alone offers a spicy mix of cinema fare. Kesari Chapter 2 with Akshay Kumar and R. Madhavan, thriller flick Sinners starring Michael B. Jordan, and Paddington in Peru for families promise to cater to every mood. Not to mention Jaat, still smashing box office charts in its second week.

    At PVR Inox, the movement is doing more than just selling tickets. “The surge in F&B spends and overall engagement reflects that people aren’t just coming for the movie—they’re coming for the full theatrical experience,” said PVR Inox CEO – revenue & operations Gautam Dutta. “It’s not a trend. It’s a cultural revival.”

    For Cinépolis India, it’s about trust, habit, and nostalgia. MD Devang Sampat remarked, “When a student spends Rs 99 and walks out smiling, it becomes more than a transaction; it is an emotional reconnection.”

    Still, not all is sunshine and samosas.

    Rahul Puri of Mukta Arts highlighted the structural issues around distribution and pricing. “The Rs 99 revolution is positive but also proves value has to be in sync with expectations—and that isn’t just about ticket prices.”

    So, as theatres gear up for another adrenaline-charged Tuesday, one thing is clear: the big screen isn’t going anywhere. And this time, it’s got the audience to prove it.

  • Mukta A2 Cinemas reopens in Vizag with Luxe upgrade and cutting-edge tech

    Mukta A2 Cinemas reopens in Vizag with Luxe upgrade and cutting-edge tech

    MUMBAI: Mukta A2 Cinemas has reopened its iconic venue at Vizag Centro Mall after a stunning makeover, launching with the highly anticipated Eid blockbuster Sikandar, starring Salman Khan and Rashmika Mandanna.

    The three-screen multiplex has been transformed into a luxury movie destination. Step inside, and you’ll find chic interiors, a stylish lounge, and, most importantly, a whole new level of comfort. The outdated pushback seats are gone replaced by plush recliners and spacious sofas with extra legroom and superior cushioning.

    Technology has had a dramatic upgrade, too. Expect razor-sharp visuals with 2K Laser and 3D projection, and immersive Dolby Atmos surround sound that pulls you right into the action. Enhanced air-conditioning ensures a perfect viewing experience, even during packed summer screenings.

    Moviegoers can also indulge in a revamped gourmet menu featuring sandwiches, pizzas, wraps, burgers, and classic cinema favourites like nachos and popcorn buckets. Drinks include everything from filter coffee and cutting chai to iced teas and coolers.

    Mukta Arts Ltd. managing director Rahul Puri remarked, “This theatre has always meant something to Vizag. So we didn’t just renovate it we brought it back to life with heart.”

    The reopening is perfectly timed, with Telugu cinema on fire this week. Nithiin’s Robinhood is off to a strong start, paving the way for Brotherhood of Robinhood, while MAD Square is drawing in the college crowd as excitement builds for MAD 3.

    Mukta A2 Cinemas CEO Satwik Lele added, “We believe the audience deserves the very best—because they are the real stars of cinema.”

    With cutting-edge tech, ultimate comfort, and an upgraded menu, Mukta A2 Cinemas Vizag is ready to redefine movie magic.

  • Cinépolis brings women-centric classics back to the big screen for Women’s Day

    Cinépolis brings women-centric classics back to the big screen for Women’s Day

    MUMBAI: A woman’s story is no longer yours to tell—now, she writes her own.

    Great stories deserve a second act, and this Women’s Day, Cinépolis India is making sure iconic women-led films get their encore. In a tribute to women who write their own narratives, the multiplex giant is rolling out a special re-release of Highway, Lootera, and Queen across its theatres. The goal? To honour women’s strength, resilience, and relentless pursuit of independence—on-screen and beyond.

    And what’s a celebration without a little treat? Cinépolis is offering a 50 per cent discount (up to Rs 100) on ticket bookings made through its website and app using the code ‘WDAY50’—because a cinematic experience this empowering deserves an audience.

    Cinépolis India MD Devang Sampat put it best, “As a brand deeply passionate about storytelling, we recognise the immense power of narratives that inspire and empower. This Women’s Day, we are proud to celebrate women who take charge of their own stories, both on-screen and in real life. Through our special film lineup and digital campaign, we hope to encourage conversations that drive change and amplify the voices of women everywhere.”

    But the storytelling doesn’t stop at the box office. Cinépolis has also launched an evocative digital campaign titled ‘Now, She Writes Her Own Story’. The campaign reflects on a long-standing reality: for generations, a woman’s journey was dictated by external forces—her choices, her roles, even her attire. But times have changed, and so has the script.

    Divya Khosla Kumar

    Cinépolis understands that while life isn’t a film, society has long treated women’s lives like one, complete with outdated plotlines and predictable tropes. But the modern woman is tearing up the old screenplay, stepping into the director’s chair, and redefining what it means to be truly free.

    Adding a star-studded endorsement to the celebrations, actor, producer, and director Divya Khosla Kumar shared her admiration for the initiative. She applauded Cinépolis for recognising and honouring women’s stories, both through cinema and through the wider conversation it inspires.

    So, grab your tickets, claim your discount, and settle in for a powerful Women’s Day celebration. The credits are rolling on outdated narratives, and the future? It belongs to women, on-screen and beyond.