Category: Movies On Mutiple Platforms

  • Ontrack teams up with Kamar film factory for the 67th Filmfare Awards South 2022

    Ontrack teams up with Kamar film factory for the 67th Filmfare Awards South 2022

    Mumbai: Ontrack has partnered with Kamar Film Factory as a media sales partner for the 67 Filmfare Awards South 2022. Filmfare recently announced that the awards would be held on 18 September 2022, in partnership with the Kamar Film Factory.

    For the first time, the awards will be held in Bengaluru on 18 September , 2022, at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIC), where some of the biggest stars from Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam films, as well as Bollywood, will converge to witness an evening full of entertainment, glamour, and glitz.

    Ontrack CEO Alok Rakshit said, “This gives us an interesting opportunity to cater to brands for whom the four Southern states have become a very vital cog, as it addresses a large and discerning audience who are big followers of the fantastic movies that are churned out every year, leaving behind an indelible impact on the minds of viewers and fans alike.”

    Kamar Film Factory founder Kamar said, “There are no two ways about it, Filmfare Awards South is one of the most-awaited events in the entertainment circuit of South India. It was dearly missed last year, but we’re excited that this time it is spread over two days, giving every release from 2019 to 2021 a chance to win the recognition it deserves. I’m eagerly looking forward to this.”

    Ontack business director Saugat Baanerjee added, “South Indian films have become a popular mainstay on a pan India basis and we are delighted to collaborate with Kamar Film Factory on the esteemed South Filmfare Awards 2022 and shall look forward to monetizing the same on-ground as well as on-air, to the best of our abilities.”

    Kamar Film Factory’s Anand Mishar commented, “We are glad to associate with ONTRACK as our media sales partner since they have an extensive footprint pan-India with their existing network of leading clients and their in-depth relations with media agencies. The amplification of the established intellectual property via the Zee Network of channels in the South and leading digital partner Facebook, also makes it an interesting proposition for brands this year.”

  • PVR celebrates 25 years with a variety of initiatives

    PVR celebrates 25 years with a variety of initiatives

    Mumbai: Multiplex operator PVR has completed 25 years in the country. To commemorate this milestone, the brand has rolled out a multi-media campaign with a film “Iss Andhere mein bahut Roshni hai” (There is light in this darkness) featuring Bollywood actor Aamir Khan. It has unveiled PVR’s 25th anniversary logo, along with PVR’s first NFT coin and an iconic ticket. PVR is also celebrating the occasion with contests.

    The concept for the Khan film was derived from a consumer insight and the poem was written by Vineet KKN Panchhi, which was further evolved for the film. The film idea comes from the insight of all the emotions and experiences the audience goes through – the magic of movies, the bonding and escaping to a fantasy world when the lights go down. The film is a play of light and darkness, taking the viewer on a journey that is brought to life inside our cinemas, as that’s the only place where darkness plays that role. It reinforces the promise of “more magic,” “more memories,” “more adventures” and “more happiness” to moviegoers to remain relevant, both as a category as well as a brand.

    PVR chairman and managing director Ajay Bijli said, “We take immense pride and feel extremely joyous on completing the 25-year milestone in India. The entertainment industry, the viewership patterns, as well as the audience have evolved over the years, and PVR has been able to live up to their expectations. As we continue to meaningfully engage consumers as well as introduce them to newer cinematic experiences, our focus will remain on bringing winning stories to the screen and adding joy and comfort to the life of our stakeholders.’’

    PVR added that it was founded back in 1997 with one sole motive: to completely revolutionise the cinema experience for Indian audiences. Over the past 25 years, it has introduced the latest cinematic formats from across the world to the Indian audience. The brand has evolved with changing times with cutting edge technology through extra-large screens, Laser Projection Systems, and immersive sound to bring alive every little detail of the movie. Seats being pivotal to delivering the ultimate sensorial cinema experience, PVR has ensured an experience that befits a king. It has reimagined a cinema F&B offering curated by its chefs with concepts customised to cater to varied preferences and choices for its discerning customers. Through, PVR Privilege, India’s leading entertainment loyalty programme, it strives to deliver to its customers an experience which is specific to their consumption behavior.

    PVR CEO Gautam Dutta commented, ‘’It’s been an eventful and phenomenal journey for PVR over the last 25 years and we are extremely excited and humbled as we celebrate this milestone. We would like to extend our gratitude to all our associates, partners, and especially movie enthusiasts, who have continued to have faith in us over these years. The enduring customer loyalty as well as enhanced brand recall and perception associated with our brand is an outcome of our customer obsession. Innovation has been our cornerstone to building a more delightful, cinematic atmosphere and delivering an exceptional experience to our patrons.’

    “Of course, we couldn’t have achieved any of it without the hard work of our employees and the perseverance of our business partners, who are resolutely committed to building our brand and helping us redefine the entertainment experience all over the country.”

    To commemorate its 25-year journey in India, PVR Cinemas has introduced a series of contests and offers to entice audiences and movie lovers across the country:

    Short film contest: Participants need to make a two-minute film on the theme, “Iss Andhere mein bahut Roshni hai.” Content creators and independent film makers of the best entries judged by film critics will be able to showcase their creations on the big screens of PVR.

    Social media engagements ‘filmy wishes contest’: Participants can use their favourite movie dialogues or song lyrics to create reels or stories and post them, tagging our official Instagram handle. The lucky 25 will get a chance to win free movie tickets for the entire year, invites to premieres, star meet and greets, and more.

    #25yearsofPVR Instagram filter challenge: Every year of PVR’s existence, one iconic movie will appear as gibberish, and participants will have to guess which one it is. PVR will randomly gratify 25 participants who have answered correctly with exclusive merchandise.

    Guest and privilege member offers:  As a part of the 25th anniversary celebration, all guests who visit PVR in the celebration week get 25 per cent off on any of its food combos and unlimited Pepsi.

    Earn 25 per cent points: During the celebration week, PVR privilege members can earn 25 per cent points instead of the usual five per cent earnings.

    NFT collection: PVR also brings its heritage to life in the metaverse. Special edition NFT coins and tickets capture the story of its brand and its most iconic moment. To make it even more special, it is giving away movie vouchers and a chance to contribute towards its social cause.

  • Inox Leisure sees best quarterly performance in Q1 FY23; revenue up by 19 per cent

    Inox Leisure sees best quarterly performance in Q1 FY23; revenue up by 19 per cent

    Mumbai: Inox Leisure on Wednesday announced its first quarter results for financial year 2023. The company reported its best quarterly performance with revenue at Rs 589 crore up by 19 per cent year-on-year (YoY). It reported earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBIDTA) at Rs 130 crore up by 41 per cent YoY and profit after tax (PAT) of Rs 74 crore soar by 80 per cent YoY.

    The company’s average ticket price (ATP) peaked at Rs 229 up by 16 per cent YoY and spends per head (SPH) stood at Rs 96 up by 19 per cent YoY.

    Inox reported its highest food and beverage (F&B) revenue at Rs 164 crore. It added three new properties and 17 screens during the quarter. The company also rolled out a merchandise business so fans can buy products from their favourite super hero or movie franchises.

    “After facing a severe impact on business due to the pandemic in the last two years, the company reported its best quarterly performance across majority metrics on the back of tent poles that resonated with Indian audience, duly complemented by their huge pent-up appetite,” said the statement.

    The April-May-June quarter saw the release of blockbusters like “RRR”, “KGF: Chapter 2”, “Vikram”, “Bhool Bhulaiya 2” and “Doctor Strange In The Multiverse of Madness” resulting in footfall of upto 18.4 million guests in Inox properties.

    Inox expects great turnaround in the business going forward with the content line-up in the upcoming quarter with releases like “Laal Singh Chaddha”, “Raksha Bandhan”, “Liger”, “Brahmastra” and “Vikram Vedha”.

    Inox Group director Siddharth Jain said, “During the entire stretch of the pandemic, something which kept us hold the fort, was the belief in ourselves, our passionate moviegoers, our stakeholders and our teams. From enabling us to see through the pandemic, to charting our path out of it, this belief has driven us towards this historical & miraculous performance in Q1.”

    He further added, “While our best-ever quarter marks a moment of rejoice, we will also ensure that it keeps inspiring us to raise the bar, while maintaining a strong focus on customer-centricity, innovativeness and profitability. We are committed to stay ahead of the curve, and keep delighting our stakeholders with such magical performances. We could not have asked for a bigger celebration on completion of 20 glorious years of our company’s operations.”

  • Cosmo Films Limited re-brands as Cosmo First Limited

    Cosmo Films Limited re-brands as Cosmo First Limited

    Mumbai: Cosmo Films has announec that it will make its new brand identity as Cosmo First Ltd–Ahead always.

    The strategic decision comes considering the company’s business activities which has expanded beyond films into specialty chemicals (master-batches, coatings, and textile chemicals) and D2C pet care. 

    The rebranding reiterates the value of Cosmo and strengthens its focus to create a better life for the people, the world, and the community we live in; built on Trust, Empathy, and Compassion. Cosmo First Limited stands for four-decade young Indian business conglomerate that thrives on innovation to unlock value in diverse sunrise sectors such as polymer, speciality chemicals and D2C Pet Care.

    Cosmo First with its continued aspiration aims to steer high growth businesses in India that are sustainable, scalable, and profitable, and deliver lasting value for all the stakeholders through innovation, excellence, collaboration, integrity and customer centricity.

    Talking about the rebranding, Cosmo First chairman and managing director Ashok Jaipuria said, “Cosmo at its core has always been pioneering revolutionary innovations to create a better life. All through our journey, we have prided ourselves in our ability to provide industry-first niche solutions in the areas of packaging, lamination, industrial and labelling applications. We have made inspiring diversifications into speciality chemicals, consumer care, and D2C retail, aiming to be a pioneer in these previously fragmented industries.”

    “We would like to be the first choice for all our stakeholders and will strive hard to always stay ahead of the curve to provide industry first solutions,” he added.

  • PVR Cinemas revamps its Ghatkopar property

    PVR Cinemas revamps its Ghatkopar property

    MUMBAI: PVR cinemas has remodeled its four-screen multiplex at PVR R Odeon Mall in Ghatkopar East, Mumbai. Strategically located, the renovated PVR property, the company said it has the latest technology and features and can accommodate 976 guests.

    With this launch, PVR Cinemas consolidated its foothold in Maharashtra with 137 screens in 29 properties and 233 screens across 51 properties in the West.
    The four-screen property is equipped with cinematic technologies including 2K projectors, Next Gen 3D and advanced Dolby 7.1 sound. There are recliner seats in the last row of all the audis for the discerning audience who prefer an extra comfort and a lavish experience while watching movies.

    PVR joint managing director Sanjeev Kumar Bijli said, “We are happy to welcome movie buffs back in Ghatkopar with an experience they have never seen before. With audiences getting back to theatres in full swing, we feel extremely privileged to launch our twelfth property in the city of entertainment. We have carefully curated all the experiences and are confident that PVR Ghatkopar will be a delight for one and all in the region.’’

    Adding to the overall ambience, PVR has launched the property featuring an all-vegetarian menu with an extensive range of gourmet delicacies served in the luxury of comfortable recliners which further adds to the property’s unique offerings and provides a warm and welcoming ambience.
    PVR CEO Gautam Dutta said, ‘’The new Ghatkopar property has been designed to offer an exemplary and engaging and movie-viewing experience. PVR Cinemas has always been focused on providing a holistic experience and the new revamped property is a testimony for that as it is backed by best-in-class hospitality and cutting-edge in-theatrical technology. In addition, we have a long, delectable food slate with scrumptious flavors that will leave our vegetarian patrons wanting more.’’

    With this opening, PVR strengthens its growth momentum in FY 2022-23 with 854 screens at 173 properties in 75 cities (India and Sri Lanka).

  • Cinema exhibition chain Carnival Cinemas in talks to raise equity

    Cinema exhibition chain Carnival Cinemas in talks to raise equity

    Mumbai: Mumbai-based cinema exhibition chain Carnival Cinemas is in the initial stages of raising equity of Rs 400 crore, as per a report by Hindi Businessline. Carnival Cinemas is the second-largest theatre chain after PVR-Inox with 450 screens present nation-wide.

    The cinema chain is in talks with its sole lender Yes Bank as well as public and private equity funds to raise money to expand to another 118 screens. The entity is expected to make a formal announcement of the fund raise in 60-90 days.

    The company owned by Dr. Shrikant Bhasi, always had plans for further expansion, especially after the record revenues of 2020. They have waited for the resolution of the pandemic before introducing private equity investors.

    According to a source, “To raise funds, Carnival Cinemas worked with Yes Bank, with whom they have a long-standing relationship, whereby the bank has always supported and believed in the business. Yes Bank has started its process to take equity and enable Carnival Cinemas to move towards its vision of 1,000 screens.”

    An official from Carnival Cinemas who refused to be named stated, “We are the market leaders in tier III and tier IV markets and are the only mass cinema chain in India whose vision is to open and operate a large number of screens. This debt restructuring would close within 60-90 days.”

  • PVR Cinemas partners with Cinionic to provide 100 percent laser projection

    PVR Cinemas partners with Cinionic to provide 100 percent laser projection

    MUMBAI: PVR Cinemas has announced an expanded preferred partnership agreement with Cinionic, the world’s leading provider of laser cinema solutions, to power 500 screens with Barco Series 4 4K laser projection. On completion of the rollout on new and existing screens, PVR will be the first exhibition chain in India to go 100 percent 4K RGB laser projection. The announcement was made at CineEurope, a European convention and trade show for major, regional and independent cinema exhibitors, which is taking place this week in Barcelona.

    The Barco Series 4 family from Cinionic features next generation 4K laser projection that supports sustainability with reduced waste, lower energy consumption, and an extended lifetime. The thoughtfully designed Series 4 moves away from the use of consumables, utilizing reusable components like air filters, and the laser light source eliminates the need for lamps and their subsequent replacement and disposal. All models within this leading laser projection range are also exceptionally efficient, reducing power consumption with smart power management, minimized heat dissipation, and increased operational efficiency.

    PVR chairman & managing director Ajay Bijli said, “PVR is aligned to the Climate Action SDG goal of the United Nations and has committed to lower its emission and reduce its carbon footprint. The BARCO Series 4 4K RGB laser projectors is a sustainable investment from PVR as part of its endeavor to make changes in operational practices for reducing emissions and conserve energy for a sustainable future”.

    This announcement continues a long-standing partnership between PVR and Cinionic as together they work to elevate the cinematic experience for audiences in India. Laser Projection by Cinionic delivers exceptional presentation quality with vivid colours, high brightness, and clear on-screen images. Through the expanded agreement with Cinionic, PVR will also benefit from Cinionic’s enhanced services with Cinionic Cloud, a digital platform for managed services through remote connectivity, improving the performance and optimizing the cost of operation over time. Cinionic services help to ensure worry-free operations for cinemas, by monitoring the health of the projector, predicting service interventions in advance, and minimizing screen downtime.

    “PVR continues to enhance the theatrical experience for India, offering cinematic excellence and a commitment to a sustainable future. We are proud to expand our strong relationship with PVR to deliver a fully laser-powered theatrical experience. The eco-friendly Barco Series 4 offers audiences across India a greener way to go to the movies” said Cinionic CEO Wim Buyens.

    In observing evolving trends in the cinema exhibition industry, energy-efficient and eco-friendly product designs are gaining momentum. Energy is no longer simply an internal cost factor. Today’s leading exhibitors are looking for ways to reach their sustainability goals without sacrificing quality and identifying how every part of their cinema value chain can contribute towards supporting a greener value proposition.

  • Inox launches merchandise range in collaboration with Macmerise

    Inox launches merchandise range in collaboration with Macmerise

    MUMBAI: Multiplex chain, Inox has launched its merchandise range, available through its website and mobile app. Inox patrons will now have an array of official and licensed merchandise available in categories including mobile and electronic accessories, fashion apparel, games and stationeries, consumer electronics, home and kitchen. The entire range of products is exclusively designed and curated by Macmerise, an online consumer goods company that produces merchandise.

    As a launch offer, Inox has announced a 10 percent discount on all online transactions till 30 June, 2022. Customers can use promo code Inox10 to avail the offer.

    With this partnership, Inox will make the audience feel closer to characters from Disney, Marvel, Lucas Films, Warner Bros (DC Comics), Universal. Customised and merchandise products of the Indian cricket team and IPL are available through FanCode and MPL, respectively. Going forward, customers can expect high-end products from premium lifestyle brands, said Inox. Customers will also be able to send gift hampers for special occasions like birthdays/anniversaries and can create customized awards and trophies.

    Products available in INOX’s merchandising website include customised and branded T-Shirts, Hoodies, Travel Essentials, Sipper Bottles, Coasters, Desk and Mouse Pad, Laptop Sleeves, Phone Cases, Caps, Mugs, Wireless Charger, Speaker, Notebooks, Headphones and much more.

    Inox Leisure Chief Sales and Revenue Officer Anand Vishal said, “Introducing our special range of merchandise is a conscious attempt to foster the unique bond that the patrons share with INOX as well as their superheroes from the famous franchises like Disney, Marvel and Star Wars. The partnership with Macmerise will allow us to provide a physical experience of their favourite characters from the movies or sports. With the aspiration of our ever-increasing and young customer base at an all-time high, it is important for us to keep them engaged by offering them more than just a cinematic content experience. Macmerise is a proven expert in the online retail space with quirky product design ideas that appeal to consumers across the country, and we are thrilled to partner with them on this new journey.”

    Macmerise Celfie Design CCO Mallika Satia said, “There cannot be a better place and a better audience than Inox to showcase and offer our products. The partnership adds a new dimension to our business as we get access to a massive set of movie lovers who enjoy a great cinema experience while watching their favorite characters on the big cinema screens of Inox. We are delighted to be associated with Inox. Through this partnership, we aim to curate the best of Inox merchandise for the movie-lovers of the country. We hope to continue building our relationship with the brand for years to come.” 

  • Multiplex giants PVR, Inox announce merger to combat OTT onslaught

    Multiplex giants PVR, Inox announce merger to combat OTT onslaught

    Mumbai: Top multiplex chains PVR Ltd and Inox Leisure Ltd have announced a merger following a meeting of their board of directors on Sunday. The combined entity, called PVR Inox Ltd, will become the largest film exhibition company in India operating 1546 screens.

    “The merged entity would be able to strongly counter the advent of various OTT platforms and the after effects of the pandemic,” the two companies said in an exchange filing.

    The merger will be an all-stock amalgamation subject to approval of the shareholders of PVR and Inox respectively, stock exchanges, Sebi and such other regulatory as may be required.

    Post the merger, the promoters of Inox will become the co-promoters in the merged entity along with existing promoters of PVR. The board of directors of the merged company will be reconstituted with a total board strength of ten members and both the promoter families having equal representation on the board with two seats each. PVR promoters will have 10.62 per cent stake while Inox promoters will have 16.66 per cent stake in the combined entity.

    When the merger becomes effective, shareholders of Inox will receive shares of PVR in exchange of shares in Inox at the approved share swap ratio. Inox shareholders will receive three shares in PVR for ten shares of Inox.

    It was also decided that PVR chairman Ajay Bijli will lead the combined entity as managing director and Sanjeev Kumar will be the executive director.

    Inox Group chairman Pavan Kumar Jain will be named as non-executive chairman of the board, and Siddharth Jain will serve as non-executive non-independent director in the combined entity.

    “This is a momentous occasion that brings together two companies with significantly complementary strengths,” said PVR’s Ajay Bijli. “The partnership of these two brands will put consumers at the center of its vision and deliver an unparalleled movie going experience to them. The film exhibition sector has been one of the worst impacted sectors on account of the pandemic and creating scale to achieve efficiencies is critical for the long-term survival of the business and fight the onslaught of digital OTT platforms.”

    “Coming together of two iconic cinema brands, which are driven by passion, is certainly the most historic moment in the Indian cinema exhibition industry,” stated Inox Leisure director Siddharth Jain. “Both companies have set high service benchmarks in an endeavour to offer the best cinema experience in the world, to the most passionate moviegoers, and would continue to do so as a unified entity. As we head into the industry’s revival amidst headwinds, this decisive partnership would bring in enhanced productivity through scale, a deeper reach in newer markets and numerous cost optimisation opportunities, and continue to delight cinema fans with world-class experiences and landmark innovations.”

  • Inox onboards Nissan as official sponsor for World Cup Screening

    Inox onboards Nissan as official sponsor for World Cup Screening

    Mumbai: Multiplex chain Inox Leisure Ltd on Thursday announced the onboarding of Nissan India as official sponsor of the World Cup screening at Inox.

    The partnership will see Nissan India and Inox working across various digital media platforms including on-screen and video wall advertisements, as well as hosting live match screening sessions for their exclusive clientele and dealer partners. Nissan is the official sponsor of ICC Men’s T20 World Cup and Nissan Magnite is the official car of the tournament.

    “The initiative presents a great opportunity for the fans who wish to experience the ‘stadium energy’ in a carnival-like, safe and hygienic setting, while enjoying Inox’s food-combos and gourmet options served at the multiplexes,” read an official statement by Inox.

    Inox Leisure Ltd chief sales and revenue officer Anand Vishal said, “With an aim to provide a holistic experience to our patrons, we have constantly been working on our alliances to help us elevate their cinema-going experience. The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup is one of the much-awaited cricketing events across the globe, and it is a privilege for us to screen the matches LIVE at our cinemas. The partnership with Nissan India adds a new dimension and further strengthens our brand offering.”

    The seventh edition of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup hosted by BCCI in UAE and Oman began on 17 October and the final match is scheduled on 14 November. Inox will showcase all matches played by team India, along with marquee league matches, the semi-finals and the final in all major cities in India, said the statement.

    “The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup is one of the greatest cricket events India looks forward to. Nissan is happy to associate with a dynamic brand like Inox to bring world-class viewing experience to cricket fans. The #BreakBoundaries theme that embodies the spirit of cricket as a sport is echoed by cricket fans in their day to day lives as they strive to move ahead in life,” stated Nissan Motor India MD Rakesh Srivastava.