ITV

Category: International

  • WFCN to revolutionise global film industry with visionary economic model

    WFCN to revolutionise global film industry with visionary economic model

    Mumbai: The World Film Communities Network (WFCN) has announced a groundbreaking initiative to bring about a colossal shift in the world of the film industry. The new economic model aims to decentralise the film industry by distributing creative control and financial support to different global communities.

    The new economic paradigm known as the “Community-Driven Film Economy,” aims to reshape the dynamics of the global film industry. The film industry has historically placed a strong emphasis on a centralised system in which major studios control both the production and distribution stages. By utilising decentralised finance principles and blockchain technology, WFCN disrupts the long-standing norm and establishes a more inclusive and democratic ecosystem. With this, WFCN establishes the notion of community engagement throughout a film’s entire production process. Through WFCN, filmmakers will be able to show their projects directly to a global film audience, who can then become stakeholders by contributing to the production via a decentralised crowdfunding platform.

    The ability to monetise films through various channels, which gives filmmakers the freedom to select between pay-per-view and ad-based revenue, is one of its primary features. This enables producers to modify their tactics according to the type of content they produce and the tastes of their target audience.

    Commenting on this ingenious initiative towards the betterment of the film industry, WFCN’s CEO, Marcello Villiagram, stated, “This eliminates the traditional reliance on major studios and financiers, giving independent filmmakers’ greater agency over their creative visions.”  WFCN emerges as a comprehensive solution, serving not only as a gateway to film festival submission but as a transformative force in the industry. WFCN’s founder, Shailik Bhaumik expressed enthusiasm about the potential of the model. “This model empowers filmmakers and film enthusiasts alike. It breaks down the barriers between creators and their audience, creating a more symbiotic relationship that transcends geographical boundaries.

    As part of a bigger initiative to digitise the audio-visual entertainment sector, WFCN is set to introduce new features, such as chances for filmmakers to publish scripts, pitch to OTT platforms, and take advantage of crowdfunding and sponsorships. The World Film Communities Network (WFCN) is a comprehensive platform that facilitates professional networking and festival submission. It’s an online community where artists can interact, share, and submit their creations. Its goal is to house the world’s creative personalities under a single dome.

  • There is a worldwide audience eager to embrace more international products: Chantal Rickards OBE

    There is a worldwide audience eager to embrace more international products: Chantal Rickards OBE

    Mumbai: Chantal Rickards OBE is a British television and film professional, a native of London, UK and was the CEO of BAFTA Los Angeles – The British Academy of Film and Television – from 2015 to 2019.

    In 2015 Chantal was appointed the first Chief Executive Officer of BAFTA Los Angeles. Chantal looked after the members based in the USA and made it her duty at BAFTA to encourage trade between the UK and the US in the creative sectors. While at BAFTA LA she conceived the formation of BAFTA North America and the consolidation of one global BAFTA brand to allow it to grow its international status and worldwide educational work.  Her work was recognized by Her Majesty the Queen in 2020 when she was awarded an OBE for her services to the industry and philanthropy.

    Rickards has had a successful career in the British creative and media sector since the 1980s. She’s produced and directed over 1,000 television programmes for the BBC, ITV, Channel Four, Sky and Channel Five since leaving University College, London. She trained at ITV, the largest commercial channel in the UK, rising from a low-level television researcher to a Director and Executive Producer of live and recorded Factual Entertainment programmes including MasterChef, one of the UK’s most prominent food shows which has travelled globally, Through the Keyhole, which ran for 32 years on British television, the French format game show, Countdown, still the longest-running game show on UK television, City Hospital, a live daily show from one of the UK’s largest public hospitals, Parkinson, a leading chat show and This Morning, ITV’s live mid-morning show.

    After five years at the BBC, she joined WPP’s GroupM which is the leading global media investment management company, which represented 40% of all global advertising spend.  Through GroupM, Chantal created long and short-form content over a seven-year period that subtly melded popular programming with advertising messaging and propelled brands from the bland to the outstanding. She has vast experience in brand strategy and recently rolled out a property brand in the USA.

    She is currently running a stimulating portfolio of roles, Chantal sits on the Board of Directors of The Dot Group, a global student housing business, and is on the Advisory Board of the UK’s National Youth Theatre; she continues to be a voting BAFTA member and raises money for them through events and donations; she also reviews films and television programmes for MRS Radio Station once a week under the moniker the ‘Screen Queen’.  Other recent project work includes creating a new business TV format, developing an 8-part true-life drama series about a prominent American family with a Hollywood producer, consulting on numerous film projects, from funding to development, in both the UK and the USA, and continuing to be the format consultant for Through the Keyhole, one of British TV’s most successful factual entertainment shows ever. Chantal recently supported Ryff, a US-based dynamic product placement company, which has just launched their Spheera platform in the UK.

    Indiantelevision.com spoke to Chantal Rickards OBE when she was visiting India recently. She spoke in length about her journey, her visit to Whistling Woods and interacting with the students there…

    Edited Excerpts:

    On your long career as an artist and then heading BAFTA how has the journey been

    A career in film and TV has been enormously rewarding. I’ve worked in live and recorded TV, in the UK and internationally, in Daytime and Primetime TV and then my exciting move to Los Angeles and Hollywood to run the British Academy of Film and TV for 5 years. It’s been hard work and a lot of fun.

    On Indian films being recognised globally. What is your perspective on the talent here in India

    My favourite film in 2022 was RRR, which was recognised with an Oscar. The Elephant Whisperer, a terrific Indian documentary, also received an Oscar and received great international recognition for Indian filmmakers. I am consistently impressed by the work of Indian filmmakers, composers and writers who are making their stories much easier for international audiences to appreciate.

    On Whistling Woods International as a leading institution for nurturing creative talent, what more can be done to make this talent recognized globally

    The young students I met at Whistling Woods International were keen to learn more about what’s popular around the world. Significantly, most young Indians stay in India and use their talent in their own country, but there are terrific and growing opportunities for young people from Asia in the UK and the USA. Talent is travelling. Good storytelling has universal appeal and no boundaries.

    On the other avenues for young students to showcase their talent globally and be recognised

    Young people from India need to understand what makes Western audiences tick, over and above Hollywood blockbusters, which resonate globally. It’s all about the story and the universal themes that bind us the world over like love and loss, ambition and power, mystery and magic, hope and desire.

    On the session with these young minds

    I was very impressed with the level of academic input at Whistling Woods International, most particularly with the interest in VR and immersive technologies. The technology facilities are very impressive and often these young professionals are trialling new products before they even reach the consumer. That’s really impactful.

    On WWI improving and innovating their curriculum

    I think Whistling Woods International could offer more information about how young Indians could market their content internationally. There is a worldwide audience eager to embrace more international products.

    On some of the projects you are working on presently

    I am currently working on developing cinema and TV projects with a Hollywood producer, and I am in early development on projects with Red Carpet Moving Pictures in Mumbai. I continue to have an executive position looking after the super successful and long-running UK factual entertainment show about the homes of the famous called Through the Keyhole for which I am eager to find an Indian broadcaster. I also review films and TV each week for a radio network in the UK and I sit in the Advisory Board of the UK’s National Youth Theatre. I also continue to support the BAFTA Student Awards as a Board Member of Yugo, the headline sponsor of the BAFTA Student Awards and leading global student accommodation provider.

  • Explore five Ridley Scott masterpieces before Napoleon’s arrival

    Explore five Ridley Scott masterpieces before Napoleon’s arrival

    Mumbai: Ridley Scott, the visionary director behind iconic films, has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. His ability to seamlessly blend compelling narratives with stunning visuals has solidified his place as a cinematic maestro. Fans eagerly await his upcoming project, Napoleon – a film about the rise and fall of the French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte and his relentless journey to power – starring Joaquin Phoenix all set to release on 24 November 2023 in cinemas including your nearest PVR INOX outlets. Ahead of the film’s release, here are five Ridley Scott movies you should watch if you haven’t already

    Gladiator (2000)

    No exploration of Ridley Scott’s filmography would be complete without a journey to ancient Rome in Gladiator. Released in 2000, this epic historical drama follows the story of Maximus Decimus Meridius, a betrayed general seeking revenge against the corrupt emperor who murdered his family. Russell Crowe’s portrayal of Maximus earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor, and the film itself claimed five Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Director for Ridley Scott. Gladiator is a masterclass in storytelling, character development, and visual spectacle. The intense gladiatorial combat scenes, combined with a powerful score by Hans Zimmer, create an immersive cinematic experience.

    American Gangster (2007)

    Transitioning from ancient Rome to 1970s Harlem, American Gangster showcases Ridley Scott’s versatility as a director. Released in 2007, this crime drama stars Denzel Washington as Frank Lucas, a real-life drug lord, and Russell Crowe as Richie Roberts, the detective determined to bring him down. The film is a gripping exploration of crime, power, and morality. Ridley Scott’s keen directorial eye captures the essence of the era, and the dynamic performances by Washington and Crowe elevate the narrative.

    Blade Runner (1982)

    Blade Runner is a groundbreaking science fiction classic that immerses viewers in a dystopian future where humanoid robots, known as replicants, struggle for autonomy. Harrison Ford takes on the role of Rick Deckard, a blade runner tasked with hunting down rogue replicants. Ridley Scott’s visionary direction, coupled with the film’s neo-noir aesthetic, has made Blade Runner a landmark in science fiction cinema. The film explores themes of identity, humanity, and morality, showcasing Scott’s ability to weave philosophical depth into visually stunning narratives.

    The Martian (2015)

    Ridley Scott’s directorial range extends to the vastness of space in The Martian. Released in 2015, this science fiction survival film is based on Andy Weir’s novel of the same name. Starring Matt Damon as Mark Watney, an astronaut stranded on Mars, the film explores the resilience of the human spirit and the power of ingenuity in the face of adversity. The Martian is a compelling blend of drama, humor, and scientific intrigue. Ridley Scott’s direction, coupled with Matt Damon’s charismatic performance, makes for an engaging cinematic experience.

    House of Gucci (2021)

    Ridley Scott’s latest venture into the world of true crime and high fashion, House of Gucci, is a compelling addition to his diverse filmography. Released in 2021, this biographical crime drama stars Lady Gaga as Patrizia Reggiani, the ex-wife of Maurizio Gucci, played by Adam Driver. The film chronicles the scandalous events leading to Maurizio’s murder and the subsequent trial of Reggiani. House of Gucci showcases Ridley Scott’s ability to craft gripping narratives based on real-life events. The film’s star-studded cast, including captivating performances by Lady Gaga, Al Pacino, Jared Leto and Adam Driver, adds depth to the compelling storytelling.

    And here’s the film that inspired this list:

    Napoleon (2023)

    Napoleon is a sweeping epic that chronicles the life of the legendary French military and political leader, Napoleon Bonaparte. Starring Joaquin Phoenix in the titular role, the film delves into the complexities of Napoleon’s rise to power, his military conquests, and the intricate web of alliances and conflicts that defined his era. With Scott’s signature visual flair and meticulous attention to historical detail, Napoleon promises to be a captivating journey through one of history’s most enigmatic figures. Joaquin Phoenix’s portrayal is anticipated to bring depth and nuance to the character, making this cinematic exploration of Napoleon’s life a must-watch for history enthusiasts and film lovers alike.

    If you’re a devoted admirer of Ridley Scott’s cinematic masterpieces and possess a genuine passion for historical narratives, be sure not to miss the eagerly awaited premiere of Napoleon this Friday at your closest PVR INOX outlets.

  • Eight must-watch films to prepare for ‘The Marsh King’s Daughter’

    Eight must-watch films to prepare for ‘The Marsh King’s Daughter’

    Mumbai: Entering the realm of imagination through the pages of a book, accompanied by a soothing beverage, is a source of comfort for many. But, for those who prefer a cinematic experience over reading, movies become the go-to choice. Adaptations of novels often achieve blockbuster status as they breathe life into captivating stories that have already captured the collective imagination. Think of The Harry Potter series, Game of Thrones, and The Lord of the Rings trilogy as prime examples. When it comes to thriller/suspense novels, watching the cinematic rendition often elevates the anticipation. Still unsure? How about we clarify ourselves with a few choice thriller/suspense novel adaptions that became iconic? From the upcoming ‘The Marsh King’s Daughter’ to ‘It’, we’ve curated a list of gripping films, each adapted from a popular novel that’ll keep you on the edge from the very beginning.

    1.   1984 (1984)

    George Orwell’s dystopian masterpiece, 1984, is a chilling exploration of a totalitarian society. John Hurt’s portrayal of Winston Smith and Richard Burton’s ominous presence make this adaptation a timeless cautionary tale that’s as relevant today as it was when the novel was written.

    2.   The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

    Based on Thomas Harris’s spine-chilling novel, The Silence of the Lambs stars Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins. Foster plays Clarice Starling, an FBI trainee tasked with consulting the brilliant but deranged Dr. Hannibal Lecter, played by Hopkins, to catch a serial killer. This gripping thriller is a masterclass in suspense, with unforgettable performances that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

    3.   A Walk to Remember (2002)

    Based on Nicholas Sparks’ emotional novel, A Walk to Remember is a classic romance that’ll tug at your heartstrings. Mandy Moore and Shane West deliver touching performances as two high school students from different worlds who find love despite seemingly insurmountable odds.

    4.   Gone Girl (2014)

    Gillian Flynn’s psychological thriller, Gone Girl, takes on a new dimension when brought to the big screen by David Fincher. Ben Affleck and Rosamund Pike’s performances are nothing short of remarkable as they lead you through a web of secrets, lies, and suspense, making it a must-see for anyone who loves a good mystery.

    5.   It (2017)

    Based on Stephen King’s spine-tingling novel, It is a chilling journey into the dark underbelly of Derry, Maine. Starring Bill Skarsgård as the terrifying Pennywise the Dancing Clown, this adaptation captures the essence of the book’s horrors. The Losers’ Club, a group of misfit kids, must confront their deepest fears as they confront an ancient evil that haunts their town.

    6.   Dune (2021)

    Frank Herbert’s epic sci-fi novel, Dune, finally received the cinematic treatment it deserved in this visually stunning adaptation. With a star-studded cast that includes Timothée Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson, and Oscar Isaac, Dune immerses you in the intricate political landscapes and desert worlds of Arrakis. It’s a breathtaking journey through a future where power, politics, and mysticism collide.

    7.   Death on the Nile (2022)

    Agatha Christie’s beloved detective, Hercule Poirot, returns in this adaptation of her classic novel. Kenneth Branagh stars as the brilliant detective who finds himself solving a murder aboard a luxurious Nile River cruise. The star-studded ensemble cast, including Gal Gadot, Armie Hammer, and Letitia Wright, adds an extra layer of intrigue to this thrilling masterpiece.

    And Last, but not the least. Here’s the film that inspired this list:

    8.   The Marsh King’s Daughter (2023)

    Finally, the highly anticipated The Marsh King’s Daughter takes the spotlight. In this thrilling adaptation of Karen Dionne’s novel, Daisy Ridley portrays Helena, a woman who must confront her traumatic past when her father, played by Ben Mendelsohn, escapes from prison. As she navigates the wilderness of her childhood, Helena must grapple with her complex emotions, and the film promises to be a rollercoaster of suspense, emotion, and extraordinary performances, just like the novels we’ve explored on this list.

    If you’re a fan of movies adapted from novels, be sure to catch ‘The Marsh King’s Daughter,’ releasing on 3 November 2023, at your nearest PVR INOX cinemas.

  • PVR INOX unveils a cinematic treat for Halloween enthusiasts

    PVR INOX unveils a cinematic treat for Halloween enthusiasts

    Mumbai: Halloween, the season of thrills, chills, and supernatural wonders, is upon us. It’s that time of year when the air becomes crisp, leaves crunch underfoot, and the world is draped in hues of orange and black. As the days grow shorter and the nights darker, a sense of mystique descends upon us. This year, PVR INOX invites cinema enthusiasts to celebrate this eerie occasion like never before by announcing the Halloween Film Festival.  From 27 October to 2 November, PVR INOX will host a spine-tingling Halloween Film Festival across select multiplexes, showcasing movies like Evil Dead, The Forever Purge, Exorcist, Nun 2, Talk To Me and the first and second edition of The Quiet Place. Taking the Halloween spirit a notch higher, PVR INOX has transformed a few multiplexes into a realm of all things dark and eerie with Halloween décor from 28 October to 2 November. The theatres include PVR Promenade, Delhi, PVR Logix, Noida, PVR Kurla, Mumbai, INOX Malad, Mumbai, Phoenix Market City, Bangalore.  

    Speaking about the Halloween Film Festival, PVR INOX Ltd co-CEO Gautam Dutta expressed his excitement, saying, “Halloween is that magical time of year when we get to wholeheartedly embrace our love for the supernatural and all things spooky. It’s a fantastic festival that has inspired countless captivating movies. At PVR INOX, we are absolutely thrilled to bring our patrons a truly unique cinematic experience during this Halloween festival. It’s a time for our audiences to revel in the thrill of these specially curated films and the immersive atmosphere we’ve created.”  

    In addition to the spine-tingling décor, PVR INOX will host a Witch Cosplay event on 31 October at Delhi and Mumbai cinemas that are decked in Halloween décor. Patrons are encouraged to embrace their inner witches and wizards and participate in this magical experience. To make Halloween even sweeter, PVR INOX has partnered with the renowned House of Candy brand to distribute candies in four cinemas in Delhi. On 31 October, between 6 pm and 11 pm, patrons at PVR Vegas, PVR Promenade, PVR Logix, and INOX AIPL can indulge in a candy extravaganza, adding a delightful twist to their Halloween celebration.

    PVR INOX’s Halloween Film Festival promises to be a treat for horror aficionados, featuring an impressive lineup of films that will send chills down your spine. Be ready for a freaky, mind-numbing cinematic journey with horror hits like Evil Dead Rise, The Forever Purge, Exorcist: Believer, Talk To Me, A Quiet Place, A Quiet Place 2, and Nun 2.

  • Haier partners with Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival Awards 2024

    Haier partners with Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival Awards 2024

    Mumbai: The anticipation is building as the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival Awards (DPIFF) prepare to captivate the world of cinema. DPIFF 2024 will be Co-Powered by Haier Appliances India (Haier India), a global leader in Home Appliances and the Number 1 brand in Major Appliances for 14 consecutive years.

    The annual award ceremony will pay tribute to the Entertainment and Film Industry in India and will take place on 20 February 2024 in Mumbai, Maharashtra, in the presence of celebrities, media personnel, government delegates, and renowned personalities from the industry.

    Commenting on this partnership, Haier Appliances India president NS Satish said, “At Haier, our focus has always been to bring in the best customer-inspired innovations, and we strive to be a part of the daily lives of Indian consumers by offering innovative, reliable, and technologically driven home appliances. Bollywood and entertainment drive India with the spirit of passion, zeal, celebration, and enthusiasm. We are excited that our collaboration with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival Awards is a seamless integration of technology and India’s cinematic heritage. We are hopeful that this association with further solidify our presence across premium audience in India.”

    The partnership between DPIFF and Haier India underscores the intersection of technology, art, and entertainment, showcasing the transformative power of both industries.

    DPIFF CEO Abhishek Mishra expressed, “The history of cinema, the film industry, and technology has undergone several changes that transformed the movie industry from its modest beginnings with black and white silent films to today’s colourful extravaganza. Therefore, I take immense pride in celebrating the Cinematic Evolution alongside Haier Appliances India, the global leader in Home Appliances and Consumer Electronics.”

    Driven by the brand purpose of ‘Inspired Living’, Haier India is committed to bringing the best-in-segment products for customers, in line with its ‘Make in India, Made for India’ philosophy. Pushing the edge, as a challenger brand Haier India is integrating a host of traditional and new-age marketing strategies, to strengthen customer connections, build brand awareness, enhance brand loyalty, and drive business growth in the Indian market.

    Over the years, DPIFF has evolved into the country’s most prestigious award ceremony. In a monumental celebration of talent, the gala event will felicitate the artists of the film fraternity who have put in their hard work and dedication to excel in the year 2023. DPIFF will be honouring all three prodigious segments – the Indian Film Industry, Indian Television Industry & International Film Fraternity – under the same roof.

    It aims to felicitate those artists of the film fraternity who have put in their hard work and have shown true promise, along with the dedication to excel. The mission, as always, is to cultivate and promote the art and science of film through education and cross-cultural awareness. DPIFF believes that the medium of cinema as well as TV series are artforms that hold the power to bridge cultures and illuminate the universality of the human experience.

  • Enjoy National Cinema Day with these 10 must-see films!

    Enjoy National Cinema Day with these 10 must-see films!

    Mumbai: Attention, cinephiles! Prepare for a cinematic extravaganza this Friday the 13th, as we celebrate National Cinema Day, an ode to India’s deep-seated passion for the world of movies. Remember those golden moments when family movie outings over the weekends lit up our weeks? But then the era of inflation emerged and cast its shadow over the beloved tradition of movie-watching. Families, friends, and movie enthusiasts can indulge in a movie marathon at the theatres for just Rs 99. Yes, you heard it right! For a day, folks can set aside their cost concerns to unwind and indulge in the pleasure of watching their most awaited films in the comfy ambience of your nearest cinemas including PVR INOX theatres.

    If that isn’t enticing enough, we have more. Brace yourself for an exciting lineup of the 10 most anticipated films of 2023 playing at multiplexes across India on this National Cinema Day. Check out the list below:

    1.   Dumb Money (releasing 13 October)

    Dumb Money follows the staggering rise to riches of Redditor and investor Keith Gill, who invested his entire savings in GameStop, a video game retailer. The film shows how he then goes on to write about his investment on Reddit and attracting the mass attention, propelling GameStop’s stock value to its all-time high. The film depicts the stock market’s dichotomy, that it can either make or mar you.

    2.   Dhak Dhak (releasing 13 October)

    Nothing is more amazing than seeing women go for their goals and succeed in spite of social constraints. Dhak Dhak is the story of four ordinary women who transform into impressive bikers, their on-road adventures, and the heartwarming camaraderie they share. Not just this, this film marks the directorial debut of acclaimed actress Tapsee Pannu.

    3.   Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie (releasing 13 October)

    It’s always fun to watch villains being defeated by superheroes and Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie takes this to the next level. Witness a team of superhero pups defeat the enemy and save their city from doom and perish. This film promises endless entertainment with its gripping plot and vibrant visuals.

    4.   800 (in cinemas)

    800 is not just a cricket biopic; it is a story of overcoming adversity and staying true to your passion. The biographic sports film takes audiences through the life of Muthiah Muralitharan, a refugee who rose to become a cricketing legend. The film appeals to audiences across all age groups and will surely captivate fans of cricket & other sports, do not miss this inspirational tale.

    5.   Mission Raniganj (in cinemas)

    Mission Raniganj has captured our hearts with its heartfelt narrative of a nation’s quest to rescue the stranded labourers in the 1989 Raniganj coal mine disaster headlined by one man. The late Jaswant Singh Gill’s grit helped India’s first successful coal mine rescue mission and one cannot miss witnessing this historic portrayal calmness and bravery of one man on mission.

    6.   Fukrey 3 (in cinemas)

    The first two instalments in the Fukrey film series spread a wave of infectious laughter and Fukrey 3 upholds the expectations. The film has the audiences in splits with the funny antics and bond of a group of friends. Pulkit Samrat, Varun Sharma and Manjot Singh are once again out to win your hearts with Richa Chadha with their hilarious performances.

    7.   Dono (in cinemas)

    What’s one of the best places to find love? A wedding! The romance drama Dono starring Garima Agarwal and Rajveer Deol, is a beautiful portrayal of love flourishing between two broken hearts. The film’s refreshing take on modern love and growth along with its depiction of today’s youth and their perception of romance and intimacy is a worthy and fun watch.

    8.   The Exorcist: Believer (in cinemas)

    A terrifying sequel to the iconic The Exorcist, this supernatural horror has spread a dread among the audiences in cinemas. The eerie visuals paired with spine-tingling music along with the suspenseful plot has been a hit among the audiences. The film also sees the return of Chris McNeil, once facing the dark evil that once possessed her daughter. If you’re a horror buff, grab this opportunity to witness true horror that The Exorcist: Believer.

    9.   Thank You for Coming (in cinemas)

    Thank You for Coming is an enjoyable and touching narrative of women embracing their sexuality and womanhood, breaking out of the barrier set by our society. A married woman stuck in an unsatisfactory marriage reunites with her friends and together they embark on a journey of discovering their wants and desires. The film stars Bhumi Pednekar, Kusha Kapila, Shehnaaz Gill and Shibani Bedi as the leading ladies.

    10.   The Vaccine War (in cinemas)

    The Covid-19 pandemic tested our resilience during two years of lockdown, impacting our mental and physical well-being. The sudden isolation and rising death toll worsened the situation and kept us on edge. Amidst the doom, India’s medical workers emerged as heroes, working relentlessly to develop a vaccine. Vivek Agnihotri’s The Vaccine War tells the inspiring tale of India’s battle against COVID-19, highlighting the courage of those who sought a solution in the midst of chaos.

    These films promise a mix of laughter, romance, terror, and warmth, each worthy to be watched on the silver screens. This National Cinema Day, watch your favourite film at the nearest PVR INOX theatres at just Rs 99!

  • #JapaneseFilmFestival returns to India

    #JapaneseFilmFestival returns to India

    Mumbai: Japan Foundation announces the launch of the sixth edition of its Japanese Film Festival #JFFinIndia in association with PVR INOX. This annual edition will be held in 7 cities, starting in Delhi from 12 to 15 October at PVR Saket (Anupam). This will be followed by Hyderabad and Chennai from 2 to 5 November at PVR Next Galleria Mall, Punjagutta, (Hyderabad), and PVR Escape, Express Avenue, (Chennai), Mumbai and Bengaluru from 7  to 10 December at PVR ICON Infinity mall, Andheri West, (Mumbai), and INOX Mantri Square Mall, (Bengaluru), and finally Kolkata and Pune from 18 to 21 January at INOX South City, (Kolkata), and PVR ICON Pavilion Mall, (Pune).

    The sixth edition of the festival, in association with PVR INOX, aims to screen 10 critically acclaimed and popular titles made by award-winning casts and crews. Each title offers insightful stories about morality and human behavior, moving and thought-provoking tales about family, support, social identity and exclusion, and enlightening narratives about the realities of adult life. Beloved anime from the Detective Conan franchise and the first animation film by legendary filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki will also be screened at the festival.

    With regards to this year’s festival, Japan Foundation New Delhi director general Koji Sato stated, “Cinema fans in India are quite familiar with Japanese films and are eager to watch more of them on the big screen. In response to the demand of our Indian audience, the Japan Foundation launched the Japanese Film Festival (JFF) in 2017, and we have been committed to offering the best selection of Japanese films ever since. We are working tirelessly to ensure that the sixth edition of the Japanese Film Festival 2023 provides the best cinematic experience, with a thoughtful selection of films that capture the essence of contemporary Japanese cinema.”

    The Japanese Film Festival will showcase an exciting lineup, including the much-anticipated ‘We Made a Beautiful Bouquet,’ written by screenwriter Yuji Sakamoto, who bagged the Best Screenplay award for ‘Monster’ at the 76th Cannes Film Festival in 2023. The festival will also screen a 4k remastered edition of ‘Lupin The 3rd: The Castle of Cagliostro,’ a beloved anime film directed by Hayao Miyazaki in 1979. In addition, selected masterpieces such as ‘A Man, ‘Anime Supremacy!,’ ‘Father of the Milky Way Railroad,’ ‘Intolerance,’ ‘MONDAYS: See you “this” week!,’ ‘Detective Conan the Movie: Crossroad in the Ancient Capital,’ ‘Detective Conan: Episode “ONE”’, ‘Detective Conan the Movie: The Last Wizard of the Century,’ will be screened at JFF 2023. The films will be screened in Japanese with English subtitles for the viewer’s convenience across select PVR INOX’s Multiplex and will offer the Indian audience a chance to experience the culture, art, and life of Japan.

  • Five serial killer movies guaranteed to terrify you

    Five serial killer movies guaranteed to terrify you

    Mumbai: Horror movies are one of the most enthralling genres in mainstream cinema. The 80s gave birth to some legendary horror movies that excel at jump scares and send shivers down your spine, thanks to groundbreaking scriptwriting, cinematography, and performances. With unforgettable characters and spine-chilling scenes, the Saw universe has made a significant contribution to the world of horror, and John “Jigsaw” Kramer has become synonymous with childhood nightmares. Fast forward to 2023, and the Saw franchise is back with its deadliest story yet. Saw X was released on 28 September 2023. As we eagerly await its release, here are five movies you shouldn’t miss before watching Saw X.

       SE7EN – 8.6

    It’s one of the most unpredictable thriller movies ever made. The audience was surprised to see Brad Pitt taking a different path in this film as David Mills, a character typically associated with action and drama. This crime thriller was among the most successful movies of 1995 and is still regarded as one of Brad Pitt and Kevin Spacey’s best performances.

       American Psycho – 7.6

    American Psycho can arguably be one of the best satires Hollywood has ever seen with Christian Bale’s phenomenal performance as Patrick Bateman. The movie is weaved with black comedy and nuanced parody that has stood with time and notoriously depicted the 80’s hippie culture.

       Perfume: The Story of a Murderer – 7.5

    The movie is inspired by the famous book named Perfume: The Story of a Murderer. It embraces the Mexican tonality brilliantly, and the film is much darker than presumed from the book. With spine-chilling scenes and the brilliance of cinematography, the film has a fantastic cast who have each performed brilliantly.

       Hannibal – 6.8

    The sequel to the iconic movie “Silence of the Lambs” with Anthony Hopkins reprising the character of the infamous Hannibal Lecter is a continuation of the original film as it tries to retain the essence with memorable performances from the cast.

       Friday The 13 – 5.5

    Hailed as one of the pioneers of the 80’s horror flicks, this franchise has a different fan base to all the horror film enthusiasts, with the iconic mask being so famous that there are references in many movies for the same. The movie has been popular for generations and remains one of the most iconic horror movies ever made.    

    If you want to witness a movie where you are terrified yet excited? Then Saw X is just the one for you. Witness John Kramer visiting Mexico at the nearest PVR INOX theatres this Thursday onwards.

  • Francis Lawrence discusses potential Hunger Games prequel with fan-favorite characters

    Francis Lawrence discusses potential Hunger Games prequel with fan-favorite characters

    Mumbai: Is there going to be a prequel to a prequel? After building a billion-dollar franchise, it comes as no surprise that Francis Lawrence, the director of the cult-favorite The Hunger Games knows exactly what the fans want. From prequels around Finnick (Sam Claflin) and Haymitch’s (Woody Harrelson) games to a possible sixth film, the pleas are heard by both the filmmaker and the author, Suzzane Collins. With The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes set to release worldwide on 17 November, the excitement around is palpable. As audiences gear up to witness the rise of the tyrannical President Snow, the odds just might be in their favor!

    In an exclusive interview with Entertainment Weekly, director Francis Lawrence opened up about the possibility of a prequel, he said, “If Suzanne has another thematic idea that she feels fits into the world of Panem — whether that’s with new people [or] familiar characters [like] Finnick, Haymitch, whoever — I’d be really interested in looking at it and being a part of it. But I don’t have any pull of just going, ‘I would love to do Finnick’s games.’ He’s a great character, but what’s the thematic underpinnings that make it worth telling and relevant?”

    Comparing Katniss and Snow’s love stories, Lawrence also said in the same interview, “[Katniss’] draw to Peeta is this shared trauma. You go through an experience together and feel more understood by that person than anybody else. It’s the same here. There’s this mutual need [between Coriolanus and Lucy]. He needs her to win and survive so he wins. She needs him to help her win and survive so she survives. There’s manipulation on both sides.”

    Lionsgate and PVRINOX Pictures will release The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes in theaters in India on 17 November 2023.