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Category: Hollywood

  • Robert Redford, Hollywood golden boy and Sundance film festival pioneer, passes on at 89

    Robert Redford, Hollywood golden boy and Sundance film festival pioneer, passes on at 89

    MUMBAI:  Robert Redford, the incandescent star of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Sting and All the President’s Men, has died aged 89. His publicist Cindi Berger said he passed away on 16 September “at Sundance in the mountains of Utah – the place he loved, surrounded by those he loved”.

    Redford was far more than a matinee idol. After conquering the 1970s box office with a string of hits, he turned to directing and won a best director Oscar for Ordinary People in 1981. He then rewrote the rules of American cinema by founding the Sundance Institute and the Sundance film festival, which became the crucible of independent film-making and launched the careers of Quentin Tarantino, Steven Soderbergh and countless others.

    The Sundance Institute, the organisation he nurtured for more than four decades, issued a moving statement that read like a farewell to a guiding spirit. “Our founder, mentor and friend, Robert Redford, has passed away,” wrote acting chief executive Amanda Kelso and founding senior director Michelle Satter. “Bob’s vision launched a movement that, over four decades later, has inspired generations of artists and redefined cinema in the US and around the world. The vibrant storytelling landscape we cherish today is unimaginable without his passionate drive and principled leadership.”

    The note went on to praise his character as much as his achievements: “Beyond Bob’s enormous contributions to culture at large, we will miss his generosity, clarity of purpose, curiosity, rebellious spirit, and his love for the creative process. We are humbled to be among the stewards of his remarkable legacy, which will continue to guide the institute in perpetuity.”

    Redford’s own journey was a Hollywood script in itself. Born Charles Robert Redford Jr in Santa Monica in 1936, he dabbled in art and baseball before studying acting in New York. Early TV work led to Broadway acclaim in Barefoot in the Park and a breakout film role opposite Paul Newman in 1969’s Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. That began a decade of defining performances—Jeremiah Johnson, The Way We Were, The Great Gatsby, Three Days of the Condor—culminating in his dual role as producer and star of All the President’s Men.

    His later career was equally varied. He played a weathered baseball hero in The Natural, an adventurous lover in Out of Africa, and delivered a near-silent tour de force in All Is Lost (2013). He even joined the Marvel franchise as the duplicitous Alexander Pierce.

    A lifelong environmentalist and liberal voice, Redford campaigned against the Keystone XL pipeline and championed documentaries exposing political and ecological failings. Honours flowed: an honorary Oscar in 2002, a lifetime achievement Golden Lion in Venice in 2017, a César in 2019 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom from Barack Obama in 2016.

    The Sundance Institute’s tribute captures the consensus on his influence: “Thank you for your participation in our work that carries on Bob’s mission and vision,” the letter concluded. “The vibrant storytelling landscape we cherish today is unimaginable without his passionate drive and principled leadership.”

    Redford is survived by his wife Sibylle Szaggars, daughters Shauna Schlosser Redford and Amy Redford, and seven grandchildren—an enduring family legacy to match the cinematic one that bears his name.

  • Cinépolis gives popcorn power-up with Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning

    Cinépolis gives popcorn power-up with Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning

    MUMBAI: It is getting challenging to fill cinema halls as has been evident from the limited number of films racing up the box office charts. Now, Cinépolis India has taken an interesting tack to get cinema lovers back into theatres: it is offering mouth-watering tub of popcorn to those who pick up tickets of Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning. As Ethan Hunt gears up for his swan song, early bird ticket-buyers are getting a blockbuster snack bonus.

    From 21 to 28 May, the first 80,000 customers who book tickets via the Cinépolis app or website will bag a free refill coupon for a Jumbo Popcorn tub—valid for all language versions of the film. That’s one mission that’s definitely not impossible.

    It’s the first time Cinépolis is bundling food and film in a single digital move, marking a shift towards experience-led cinema in India’s increasingly competitive multiplex landscape.

    And there’s more where that came from. The popcorn perk is part of a larger buffet of F&B promotions rolling out at Cinépolis, including:

    * Special Menu Tuesdays: Curated bites starting at just Rs 99
    * Buy-one-get-one cream & onion popcorn: Double the crunch, same cost
    * Coca-Cola Birthday Special: Grab a Coke for Rs 139 with a food bill of Rs 139, celebrating the brand’s 139th year
    * Free popcorn refills: With select bookings on Cinépolis digital platforms

    The campaign is a crunchy step in Cinépolis’ broader mission: merging blockbuster cinema with curated culinary joy. With Hollywood’s hottest spy lighting up screens and snacks getting star billing, this summer, the plot just got tastier.

  • Cruise control kicks In as Mission Impossible ignites summer box office

    Cruise control kicks In as Mission Impossible ignites summer box office

    MUMBAI: Theatre owners have one mission this May, pack in the crowds. And thanks to Tom Cruise, it looks like they’re already winning. With Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning just days away from its theatrical release, the high-octane franchise is already breaking ground. Over 11,000 tickets were sold within 24 hours of advance bookings, and as of Tuesday, that number has soared past 38,500 across national chains, setting the tone for what exhibitors are calling a “Hollywood summer revival.”

    Venkat Prasad of Prasad Multiplex (Hyderabad) shared his perspective on the current buzz, noting the shift in audience sentiment and said, “The numbers truly prove this, as does the incredible buzz and global response to the Tom Cruise film. The appetite for theatrical experiences in the South has been rejuvenated, and this high-octane offering is perfectly timed to tap into that demand. For us as exhibitors, and more importantly for audiences, 2025 is a blockbuster year for Hollywood in every sense, and we will see this unfolding as we now go along, starting with Mission: Impossible releasing on 17th May.”

    Echoing the sentiment AMB Cinemas director Sunil Narang emphasized the strength of the upcoming slate and its impact on local audiences, saying, “With Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning leading the charge, Hollywood’s May line-up is one of the best summer slates we have seen in a while offering a thrilling mix of nostalgia, action, and exhilaration this summer. The response from our audiences in the South has been phenomenal, with the region witnessing advance sales in good numbers solely for seeing Tom Cruise as Ethan Hunt in action; reaffirming the pull of such big-ticket releases for the big-screen experience.”

    Directed by Christopher McQuarrie, the film stars Cruise alongside an ensemble cast including Hayley Atwell, Simon Pegg, Ving Rhames, and Angela Bassett. The latest instalment promises heart-stopping action, emotional stakes, and high-speed stunts that have come to define the franchise.

    Releasing in English, Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu on Saturday, 17 May, The Final Reckoning brings back Ethan Hunt for one last, dangerous mission across languages and generations.

    In a post-pandemic world where streaming had momentarily taken the front seat, Cruise’s return to cinemas isn’t just a movie moment, it’s a mission to reignite the magic of the big screen.

  • Hollywood’s Indian box office: Transitioning from superhero dominance to a broader landscape

    Hollywood’s Indian box office: Transitioning from superhero dominance to a broader landscape

    MUMBAI: The Indian – read Hindi cinema-  box office has been going through some earth shaking changes with sleeper movies emerging as gargantuan block busters and big films with A-listers ending up as disasters without even a whimper.  

    But what’s been happening with Hollywood cinema in India? 

    Hollywood films have experienced considerable fluctuations in their box office performance in India over the past decade. The late 2010s saw significant success, primarily driven by superhero films. The pandemic then interrupted this trajectory, leading to a period of decline in Hollywood’s market share.

    Ormax Media has examined Hollywood’s box office journey in India, from the pre-pandemic peak influenced by the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and other superhero franchises to the post-pandemic environment where Hollywood’s share has decreased, but new genres have emerged as significant contributors in its latest report – Hollywood in India – The decline in numbers. 
     

    spiderman: far from home

     

    The report says that the year 2019 represented a peak for Hollywood in India, with cumulative gross box office earnings reaching Rs 1,595 crore. This growth resulted in Hollywood securing a 15 per cent share of the Indian box office, becoming the second-highest contributor by language, after Hindi cinema. In 2019, the total gross earnings of Hollywood films in India, across both English and dubbed versions, surpassed those of the Tamil and Telugu film industries.

    Indian audiences, with increasing exposure to global content and drawn to large-scale visual productions, attended Hollywood releases in record numbers. This pre-pandemic success was driven by major event films that resonated strongly with young, urban audiences. Global franchises invested significantly in localised marketing strategies for the Indian market, which yielded substantial returns. By 2019, Hollywood studios were no longer niche players in India but were competing with local industries for top box office positions, with superhero films playing a leading role.

    Dr strange

    The superhero genre was a primary driver of Hollywood’s strong performance in India during the late 2010s. The MCU and other competing universes cultivated a significant fan base in the country. Each new Avengers installment achieved greater success than its predecessor, with Avengers: Endgame reaching a record Rs 433 crore in India. 2019 also saw multiple other superhero films contribute to Hollywood’s Rs 1,500+ crore total. This period was characterised by a consistent supply of highly anticipated films, particularly from Marvel Studios, alongside releases from DC and other franchises.

    However, maintaining this momentum after Avengers: Endgame proved challenging. The culmination of a decade of storytelling, particularly the conclusion of Robert Downey Jr.’s portrayal of Iron Man, marked a significant point for superhero fans in India. While the MCU’s Phase 4 introduced new characters and stories, the reception was less enthusiastic, reflecting a global trend of decreasing audience engagement with superhero films.

    Post-Endgame, while some MCU films performed adequately, they did not achieve the record-breaking success of previous installments. Many underperformed expectations, aligning with a global trend where most superhero films in 2023 did not reach the billion-dollar mark globally. DC films also faced challenges. This indicates a shift in audience preferences regarding superhero content.

    Consequently, Hollywood’s overall market share in India declined from approximately 15 per cent in 2019 to single digits by 2023. This was accompanied by a decrease in footfalls. The impact of superhero releases on Hollywood’s India earnings has diminished. Before the pandemic, a major Marvel release could contribute significantly to Hollywood’s annual box office in India.

    However, this trend has seen a decline since 2020. Spider-Man: No Way Home in December 2021 was an exception, achieving a gross of around Rs 250 crore in India. However, other Marvel Phase 4 films achieved more modest results. By 2022, while Indian theaters had fully reopened, Hollywood released fewer films. 

    captain marvel

    Although significant releases like The Batman, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, Jurassic World Dominion, and Avatar: The Way of Water contributed to box office revenue, it was not a record year. In 2023, despite the overall Indian box office reaching a record Rs 12,000 crore, Hollywood’s share decreased to nine per cent, with the contribution of the superhero genre declining significantly.

    In contrast to the declining dominance of superhero films post-pandemic, other Hollywood blockbusters gained prominence in India. Audiences showed increased interest in genres such as science fiction epics, biographical dramas, creature features, and animated films. Avatar: The Way of Water achieved the highest gross for a Hollywood film in India, surpassing Avengers: Endgame. Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer also performed well, indicating an audience for diverse, high-concept filmmaking. Additionally, the monster-verse films and animated features have found a significant audience. In 2024, several animated films were among the top Hollywood grossers in India, highlighting the genre’s current strength.

    Moving forward, Hollywood will aim to regain market share in India by focusing on diverse and innovative content, supported by effective marketing strategies. The post-pandemic success of films like Avatar: The Way of Water and Oppenheimer, along with the growing appeal of animated films, suggests that while the era of superhero dominance may have passed, Indian audiences still seek compelling cinematic experiences. 

    However, reaching the peak of 2019 may present a considerable challenge in the current landscape.
    One can’t forget that in the years preceding the pandemic, specifically in 2019, Hollywood’s Indian box office reached a significant milestone, achieving a gross revenue of Rs 1,595 crore and a 15 per cent market share. This growth was largely propelled by franchise films and shared universes, particularly within the superhero genre.iin 2019 marked a peak in this trend, generating substantial box office returns.

    However, the momentum experienced in the superhero genre prior to the pandemic began to wane in the subsequent period. Following the reopening of theaters in 2022, Hollywood faced challenges in regaining its previous market share in India. Notably, films outside the superhero genre demonstrated that Indian audiences were increasingly receptive to large-scale productions and diverse narratives.

  • The Best of Schwarzenegger: 10 Films That Turned the Austrian Oak Into a Legend

    The Best of Schwarzenegger: 10 Films That Turned the Austrian Oak Into a Legend

    When you think of Arnold Schwarzenegger, chances are you picture a chiseled action hero delivering epic one-liners or fighting off alien predators. But Arnold isn’t just another action star; he’s a legend. His trajectory from dominating the bodybuilding world to becoming a global Hollywood legend and even a governor is quite remarkable. He has given us some of the most memorable films over the years, ranging from undercover kindergarten instructors to cyborg killers. Let’s explore ten of his best movies, which not only highlight his biceps but also his charm, skill, and star power that helped him become an icon.

    Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)

    Arnold Schwarzenegger plays the T-800, a cyborg on a mission to defend the next human leader, in this ground-breaking sequel. The movie is a masterpiece of how to combine intense action with nuanced emotions. Arnold received praise from critics for his subtle depiction of a machine struggling with humanity, and the tale was enhanced by his chemistry with Edward Furlong. The film, which won four Oscars, including Best Visual Effects, was a technical marvel and was directed by James Cameron. Not to be overlooked, though, is Arnold’s contribution-his development from a cold-blooded killing machine to a guardian who learns to care.

    Did you know that he received $15 million for this film from the studio? The shocking part is that he only had around 700 words of dialogue, meaning he made about $21,429 per word. Not bad, isn’t it? Also, “Hasta la vista, baby” wasn’t just a cool line-it became part of pop culture history.

    Predator (1987)

    “If it bleeds, we can kill it.” Arnold solidified his status as the ultimate action hero with his iconic line. He portrays Dutch, a tough-as-nails military captain who battles an unseen alien predator in a poisonous forest. The picture received accolades for its intense action, suspense, and, of course, Arnold’s epic confrontation with the alien. Arnold’s journey from soldier to survivor is captivating as he and his team are pursued by an enigmatic alien. Schwarzenegger’s status as an action star was cemented by the film’s ongoing appeal, which was fueled by its compelling story and his imposing presence.

    Fun fact: Jean-Claude Van Damme, a martial artist, was the first person to test the Predator costume! However, it wasn’t threatening enough, so it was later redesigned. Good call, right?

    Total Recall (1990)

    Arnold portrays Douglas Quaid in Total Recall, a guy whose memories might not be his own. Schwarzenegger can display a combination of physical action and psychological complexity because to the film’s futuristic setting and surreal plot. The Paul Verhoeven-directed film received praise for its innovative special effects and was nominated for an Academy Award. It stands out in Arnold’s career because of his compelling performance and the film’s examination of truth and identity. 
    According to reports, Arnold was so focused on making this film a success that he insisted on personally advertising it all around the world. The famous statement, “Consider that a divorce,” during a particularly heated argument with his on-screen wife, should also not be forgotten.

    True Lies (1994)

    Schwarzenegger portrays Harry Tasker, a spy who keeps his true identity a secret from his family, in this action-comedy. Only Arnold could pull off playing a James Bond-esque secret agent while keeping his double life hidden from his wife. The film displays Arnold’s flexibility by skillfully fusing comic themes with spectacular action sequences. James Cameron’s directing brought the story to life, and his on- screen chemistry with Jamie Lee Curtis gave it a sense of depth The movie was both a critical and commercial success, earning a Golden Globe nomination for Curtis and further solidifying Schwarzenegger’s ability to excel across genres.

    Here’s a fun tidbit: Remember the epic scene where Arnold flies a Harrier jet? That wasn’t CGI-real jets were used, adding to the movie’s wow factor. Talk about going the extra mile for authenticity!

    Conan the Barbarian (1982)

    Before the Terminator, there was Conan. This sword-swinging epic gave Arnold his first big break as a leading man. He was the epitome of the stoic warrior seeking revenge, with his Herculean physique and minimal dialogue. In his breakthrough performance, Schwarzenegger plays the iconic warrior Conan, a figure characterized by courage, perseverance, and a desire for vengeance. Conan the Barbarian was a commercial hit and marked the beginning of Schwarzenegger’s ascent in Hollywood.

    What’s cool is that Arnold underwent rigorous training for the part, which included stunts, horseback riding, and sword fighting. “It was tougher than training for Mr. Olympia!” he remarked. However, it all paid off because this film marked the beginning of his Hollywood career.

    The Terminator (1984)

    Schwarzenegger’s terrifying portrayal of the unrelenting T-800 revolutionized the science fiction genre. The film’s low-budget inventiveness made it a cultural phenomenon, and his minimalist approach to the job made the character indelible. The Terminator, which was directed by James Cameron, was a big office success and made Arnold a major player in Hollywood.

    Although the studio first selected O.J. Simpson, director James Cameron felt that Arnold’s commanding body and piercing eyes were ideal for the part. He was right. Arnold produced one of the most unforgettable villains in film history with just 17 lines of dialogue. The line “I’ll be back” was reportedly improvised during filming, proving that even off-script, Arnold is a legend.

    The Running Man (1987)

    Schwarzenegger’s portrayal of Ben Richards in this dystopian thriller combines action-hero charm with unfiltered emotion. The Running Man became a cult classic due to its sarcastic portrayal of media and society, as well as Arnold’s extraordinary performance. The film’s concepts are timeless, and its compelling storyline guarantees its status as one of Schwarzenegger’s finest works.

    This film’s uncanny foreshadowing of reality TV and sensationalism is amazing. Additionally, some of Arnold’s greatest trash-talking incidents occurred during his career. “He had to split,” after defeating a chainsaw-wielding foe? Classic Arnold.

    Kindergarten Cop (1990)

    Who would have guessed that Arnold could be so funny? He goes undercover as a kindergarten teacher to catch a criminal while portraying Detective John Kimble, and chaos unfolds. His ability to make people laugh while keeping an action-packed plot is on full display in this comedy treasure. The film, which became a box office success and showcased Schwarzenegger’s abilities as an actor, gained depth from the endearing exchanges between Kimble and his students.

    This film demonstrated that Arnold had exceptional comedic timing in addition to his physical prowess. Arnold’s “It’s not a tumor!” statement became an instant classic. It’s no wonder this lighthearted comedy became a box-office hit.

    Commando (1985)

    If you’re in the mood for pure, unadulterated action, Commando is the movie for you. Arnold portrays John Matrix, a former special forces agent who fights an entire army to free his daughter who has been abducted. This film, with its extravagant stunts and corny one-liners, is the epitome of 1980s action. Schwarzenegger throws viewers on an action-packed, nonstop rollercoaster in his role as John Matrix. The story is driven by Arnold’s immense presence. Commando is still a favorite among fans and is a prime example of 1980s action movies.

    Fun fact: The stunt gear had to be adjusted to fit Arnold because of his enormous biceps. That is some serious flexing.

    The Last Stand (2013)

    Schwarzenegger’s comeback to leading roles is exemplified by his portrayal of Sheriff Ray Owens, a role that represents his evolution. The Last Stand demonstrates Arnold’s timeless appeal by fusing humor, action, and nostalgia. Fans should not miss the film because of its captivating plot and Schwarzenegger’s captivating performance. He battles a drug cartel in a small village in this action-packed movie, which combines humor with vintage Schwarzenegger-style thrills.

    The Last Stand demonstrated that Arnold’s star power had not diminished, despite it not being as significant as his previous hits. It also signaled the start of his comeback to action roles following his time serving as governor of California.

    Arnold Schwarzenegger isn’t just an action hero-he’s a pop culture phenomenon. From playing ruthless cyborgs to making us laugh as a kindergarten teacher, he’s done it all with unmatched style. His movies aren’t just entertainment; they’re part of the cultural fabric of Hollywood. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just discovering his work, one thing is clear: a blend of determination, talent, and charisma can lead to extraordinary achievements.

  • Auliʻi Cravalho, Dwayne Johnson, and cast celebrate “Moana 2” world premiere

    Auliʻi Cravalho, Dwayne Johnson, and cast celebrate “Moana 2” world premiere

    Mumbai: Auliʻi Cravalho and Dwayne Johnson joined an illustrious lineup of stars, filmmakers, and special guests at the world premiere of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Moana 2”. The grand celebration took place at the picturesque Lanikūhonua Cultural Institute in Kapolei, Hawai‘i, paying homage to the Pacific cultures and traditions that form the heart of the Moana story.

    The evening opened with a spectacular cultural performance led by Tiana Nonosina Liufau, Kayla Faʻamaligi, and Polynesian creatives, honouring the vibrant heritage of the Pacific peoples. The event was graced by the presence of the film’s cast, including Auliʻi Cravalho (Moana), Dwayne Johnson (Maui), Hualālai Chung (Moni), Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda (Simea), and Gerald Faitala Ramsey (Tautai Vasa). Directors Jason Hand, Dana Ledoux Miller, and David G. Derrick Jr., along with producers Yvett Merino and Christina Chen, joined them, alongside celebrated songwriters Abigail Barlow, Emily Bear, and Opetaia Foa‘i, and composer Mark Mancina.

    Earlier in the day, Disney partnered with Make-A-Wish and Dwayne Johnson to create a once-in-a-lifetime experience for five wish kids and their families. Hosted at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, the families were Johnson’s personal guests for the Moana 2 premiere.

    In a separate event, Disney collaborated with the Starlight Children’s Foundation to bring joy to patients at Kapiʻolani Medical Center for Women & Children. Disney CEO Bob Iger joined the event, which featured Moana-themed hospital gowns, toys, and books. The initiative extended to four other paediatric care centres in Oʻahu, where patients enjoyed an exclusive early screening of Moana 2 through the Disney Movie Moments program.

    The sequel to Disney Animation’s beloved musical takes audiences on an epic new voyage. Reuniting Moana (Auliʻi Cravalho) and Maui (Dwayne Johnson), the story picks up three years after the first film, as Moana receives an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors. Alongside a crew of unlikely seafarers, she embarks on a daring adventure through the far seas of Oceania.

    The film also features Rachel House, Temuera Morrison, Nicole Scherzinger, and Rose Matafeo among its voice cast, with Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda voicing Moana’s little sister, Simea. Directed by David Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, and Dana Ledoux Miller, and produced by Yvett Merino and Christina Chen, the film features music by Grammy® winners Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, Grammy nominee Opetaia Foa‘i, and Grammy-winner Mark Mancina.

  • Joy takes over! Inside Out 2 reaches $1 billion in record time

    Joy takes over! Inside Out 2 reaches $1 billion in record time

    Mumbai: Disney and Pixar’s much-anticipated sequel, Inside Out 2, has taken the world by storm, rewriting the record books for animated films. In a stunning feat, the movie has become the fastest animated film to ever reach the coveted $1 billion mark at the global box office, achieving this milestone in less than three weeks!!

    This record-breaking performance surpasses the previous record holder, Frozen 2, which took 25 days to reach the same benchmark. Inside Out 2’s phenomenal success is further underscored by its impressive performance in India. The film raked in a whopping Rs 101.48 crores ($12.7 million) within just 19 days, becoming the fastest animated film to enter the exclusive 100 crore club in the country. This prestigious club recognizes animated films that have achieved a lifetime gross of over Rs 100 crores ($12.3 million) at the Indian box office. Notably, eight out of the eleven films currently in this club are from Disney and Pixar, solidifying their dominance in the animation genre.

    Inside Out 2’s emotional journey resonated with audiences worldwide. The film’s ability to delve deeper into the complexities of our inner world, introducing new characters representing fresh emotions, seems to have struck a chord. With its critical acclaim and record-breaking box office numbers, Inside Out 2 has cemented its place as a true animation powerhouse.

    Directed by Kelsey Mann, Inside Out 2 was released on 14 June 2024 in cinemas worldwide. Amy Poehler, Maya Hawke, Phyllis Smith, Lewis Black, Tony Hale, and Liza Lapira gave their voices to the beloved animated characters of the film. Written by Meg LeFauve, the animated film continues to weave its Pixar magic in theatres in India and across the world!

  • Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai win Despicable Me 4 early access voting frenzy!

    Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai win Despicable Me 4 early access voting frenzy!

    Mumbai: Minion mayhem is about to erupt across India, but moviegoers in Chennai, Bangalore, and Mumbai are in for a special treat! These three cities have emerged victorious in a thrilling online voting battle for the PVR INOX Early Access Show of the highly anticipated animated film, Despicable Me 4. With a staggering 25,000 fans participating Chennai, Bangalore, and Mumbai secured the highest number of votes, granting them the exclusive privilege of an early screening on 30 June 2024. The winning cities were determined through an intense online voting process conducted on the PVR and INOX apps and websites. This innovative approach by PVR INOX reflects the high level of enthusiasm and participation among Despicable Me fans across India.

    Starting today, June 26, movie lovers in Chennai, Bangalore, and Mumbai can secure tickets for this special Early Access Show. Don’t miss this chance to be among the first in India to witness the return of Gru, his loyal Minions, and the whole Despicable Me crew! To commemorate this victory and heighten the excitement, PVR INOX is offering additional perks for moviegoers in the winning cities. Every ticket holder for the Early Access Show in Chennai, Bangalore, and Mumbai will receive a complimentary popcorn tub, adding a delightful touch to their movie experience. Additionally, a select group of lucky attendees will be randomly chosen to win exclusive Despicable Me 4 merchandise, taking home a cherished memento of this special event.

    PVR INOX Ltd CEO – revenue & operations Gautam Dutta expressed his excitement about the Early Access Show and the voting process: “With the Early Access Show, we’re putting the power back in the hands of our audience. This isn’t just a movie screening; it’s a celebration of the magic of cinema and the immense love for the Despicable Me franchise! The voting battle was a thrilling experience, and around 25,000 fans participated, one of the highest participation for any film contest so far. We’re ecstatic to bring the Early Access Show to Chennai, Bangalore, and Mumbai on June 30.”

    PVR INOX’s Early Access Show breaks new ground, empowering audiences and shaking up the traditional movie experience. Through real-time polling on the PVR and INOX apps and websites, fans actively influenced which cities received early screenings for select films. This innovative approach not only caters directly to movie lovers’ desires by giving them a say in the release schedule but also generates significant pre-release buzz and excitement for the film itself.

    The Despicable Me franchise stands as a titan in the animation industry. It holds the prestigious title of the highest-grossing animated film franchise of all time, solidifying its place among the top 15 highest-grossing film franchises overall and one of the highest-grossing media franchises ever. The secret to its success lies in its unique blend of heartwarming moments, side-splitting humour, and a cast of unforgettable characters, including the ever-popular Minions, that have captivated audiences worldwide.

    Despicable Me 4 serves as the highly anticipated sequel to Despicable Me 3 (2017), marking the fourth instalment in the main series and the sixth film overall. Fans can expect the return of the delightful mix of mischief and mayhem that has become synonymous with the franchise and some exciting new surprises.

    After narrowly escaping incarceration, the villainous Maxime Le Mal and his accomplice, Valentina, seek revenge on Gru and his family, including his newborn son, Gru Jr. This looming threat forces Gru to relocate his family for their safety. In their new neighbourhood, they encounter the Prescotts and their daughter, Poppy. Gru and his mischievous Minions form an unexpected alliance with Poppy to counter the formidable duo of Maxime and Valentina. With a dynamic plot, beloved characters, and the ever-entertaining Minions, Despicable Me 4 promises to be a hilarious and heartwarming addition to the Despicable Me saga.

  • “Boonie Bears: Guardian Code” special screening held on Mother’s Day

    “Boonie Bears: Guardian Code” special screening held on Mother’s Day

    Mumbai: “Mother’s Day” celebrated at a special screening of “Boonie Bears: Guardian Code” kids’ film with moms & their children well-known mommy bloggers from Mumbai, New Delhi, Bangalore & Chennai treated themselves & their kids to a special siesta. This screening held in various multiplexes was a joyful ride & witnessed them taking selfies in various poses with the standees & backdrops of the film. They were so connected with the film that one can see them rooting for the 2 brothers fighting against all odds to get their lost mother back. In the end, some of them were noticed getting teary-eyed watching the brothers reunite with their mother.

    Critics from all the national publications and online-digital platforms have given good favourable reviews to the first-ever Boonie Bears film from the universally loved global franchisee to be released in Indian theatres.  

    “Boonie Bears – Guardian Code” is a cute alluring journey of two lovable Bear Cubs Briar & Bramble who have been living happily with their mother Barbara in the forest of Crystal Peaks until a devastating fire separates them from their mother. Many years later they get a mysterious clue about their mother being alive. Determined to unravel the mystery of her disappearance with grit & courage, the bear brothers ultimately emerge victorious by confronting the truth & rescuing her from the villains. The title of the Hindi version is called “ “Boonie Bears – Mumma Ki Khoj” & the Bear Cubs are called Bunnu & Munnu.

    This is the eleventh animation feature film from the globally beloved “Boonie Bears” animated franchise which has captivated audiences across 82 countries worldwide since 2012.

    Ultra Media & Entertainment Group director Rajat Agrawal quoted, “ We are extremely thrilled to bring Boonie Bears to Indian cinemas. The sheer fan following that the franchise had been enjoying globally is a testament of its universal appeal. The emotional quotient of the film will resonate well with the Indian audience. We also have been observing that there is a dearth of good films for children in India. Hence we also strategically timed the release to sync it with the summer vacation of the children, so that they can enjoy it in the theatres with their family in leisure “  

    The adventures of Bonnie Bears have transcended language barriers, fascinating audiences of all ages with their endearing antics & heartwarming narratives. They have become a cultural phenomenon, enchanting generations with their timeless charm & universal appeal.

    Boonie Bears, an international franchise has evolved into a highly cherished animated universe with 10 films & extensive TV series spanning 11 seasons with 728 episodes worldwide since its debut on 22 January 2012. Alongside it, Boonie Bears has also expanded its reach with five books, further enriching its immersive universe. It is currently being streamed on Netflix, Sony & Disney globally.

    The “Boonie Bears” film series is based on the wildly popular animated television show produced by Fantawild Holdings Inc. Boonie Bears series started its worldwide theatrical journey in 2014, Boonie Bears : Guardian Code garnered a Worldwide Box office of  $220 million. The film is acquired & released in India by Ultra Media & Entertainment Group.

    Television series: Boonie Bears was first shown on television in 2013 with BB: Homeward & in 2014 with BB: Robo-Rumble. It garnered huge traction & became the most popular children’s show globally. Following this an array of TV series was aired which spanned 11 seasons with 728 episodes worldwide since its debut.

  • Demon Hunters is set to premiere globally in Winter 2024

    Demon Hunters is set to premiere globally in Winter 2024

    Mumbai: The spotlight turns to Cannes where the much-anticipated action-horror-comedy film, “Demon Hunters,” is set to reveal its first look.

    Headlined by the dynamic duo Arjan Bajwa and JC Lin, the film promises a thrilling ride filled with action and comedy that will leave you at the edge of your seat.

    Produced by Light House Productions (Taiwan) and Kleos Entertainment Group (India),

    “Demon Hunters” marks a historic collaboration between the two nations and is backed by the Taiwan government.

    Directed by the award-winning director Mei-Juin Chen, known for her work “The Gangster’s Daughter.” Demon Hunters boasts a veteran cinematographer in Tony Cheung for his masterful work on films like “Dragon Blade” and “Hidden Strike” starring Jackie Chan and John Sena.

    With a stellar international cast and crew, including Regina Lei and seasoned actor Jack Kao, known as Al Pacino of the South East and Harry Chang from the popular Netflix Series Gatao, the film is set to captivate audiences worldwide.

    Cindy Shyu, Producer, Light House Productions, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, “‘Demon Hunters’ is a testament to the power of collaboration. We are thrilled to bring this unique blend of action and comedy to the global stage, and Cannes provides the perfect platform to showcase our vision.”

    Director Mei-Juin Chen shared his excitement, saying, “Creating ‘Demon Hunters’ has been an exhilarating journey. We’ve infused the film with all the ingredients of a wholesome entertainer. I can’t wait for audiences to experience it and to see how they react to the first look at Cannes.”

    Gayathiri Guliani, Producer, Kleos Entertainment Group, added, “Demon Hunters embodies our commitment to pioneering and setting the standard for captivating content for a global audience. At Kleos, we firmly believe in challenging limits and pushing boundaries.”

    Lead actor from India Arjan Bajwa expressed his anticipation, commenting, “Being a part of ‘Demon Hunters’ has been an incredible experience. The opportunity to collaborate with such talented individuals from across the globe has been truly rewarding. I can’t wait for audiences to join us on this wild adventure.”

    His counterpart, lead actor JC Lin from Taiwan, echoed his sentiments, stating, “Working on ‘Demon Hunters’ has been a dream come true. It’s been an honour to collaborate with such a talented team from Hong Kong and India and I’m excited for viewers to immerse themselves in the world we’ve created. And the ride has just begun with this unveiling in Cannes.”