Category: TV Shows

  • Get ready for new characters, adventures and Pokémon in ‘Pokémon Horizons: The Series’

    Get ready for new characters, adventures and Pokémon in ‘Pokémon Horizons: The Series’

    Mumbai: Pokémon fans, get ready to embark on a new adventure as The Pokémon Company brings its highly anticipated animated show ‘Pokémon Horizons: The Series’ to Hungama starting 25 May 2024. Following the recent release of the trailer, the anticipation among fans has reached an all-time high, thanks to the introduction of new characters, exciting adventures, and many new Pokémon adding a new flavour to the franchise.

    For the first time in the franchise’s history, ‘Pokémon Horizons: The Series’ features a female lead, Liko, hailing from the Paldea region. Accompanied by her trusty Grass-type partner Pokémon, Myaoha, Liko sets off on a grand adventure spurred by a mysterious pendant from her grandmother. Joining her on this journey is the adventurous Roy, a boy from a remote island in the Kanto region, who dreams of becoming a Pokémon trainer and shares a unique bond with his partner Pokémon, Garmachh. Adding to the excitement is a dynamic group called the Rising Volt Tacklers, led by Friede and Captain Pikachu. This team ventures across the Pokémon world aboard an airship, delving into mysteries and meeting new Pokémon along the way.

    The show will engage audiences on Hungama with new episodes at 9:30 a.m. every Saturday and Sunday, ensuring a thrilling journey for viewers to look forward to every weekend. For added convenience, repeat telecasts will air on weekdays, allowing fans to catch up on the adventures at their leisure.

    In a special treat for Indian audiences, ‘Pokémon Horizons: The Series’ features exclusive opening and ending tracks composed by renowned music duo Vishal and Sheykhar, and sung by popular Indian singers Armaan Malik and Shirley Setia. This collaboration promises to add a local charm to the series that is bound to resonate with viewers across the country.

    The premiere will be preceded by some surprise content by the artists on their social media. People in Pune and Mumbai will also get a chance to meet and interact with the new characters and Pokémon from the series as well as enjoy exciting weekends surrounded by Pokémon fun at Pokémon Mela scheduled in May and June. Anyone looking to immerse themselves in the world of Pokémon or spend their weekend differently must head to Pheonix Marketcity in Viman Nagar, Pune on 17 to 19 May, Pheonix Marketcity in Kurla, Mumbai on 31 May to 2 June, or Oberoi Mall in Goregaon, Mumbai on 7 to 9 June. Details are available on Pokémon’s official Instagram account in India (@_pokemonofficialindia).

    Don’t forget to join this thrilling journey filled with friendship, courage, and the joy of exploration in the real and the digital world as ‘Pokémon Horizons: The series’ sets sail on a quest for adventure like never before. Mark your calendars and get ready to experience Pokémon in an all-new, exciting way!

  • Something Special acquires international format licensing rights of The Penthouse Game

    Something Special acquires international format licensing rights of The Penthouse Game

    Mumbai: Something Special, Seoul-based #1 independent* international format agency, announced they acquired international licensing rights for the experimental reality game show The Penthouse Game which aired on July 2022 on Channel A and local streamer WAVVE. This show will be available for buyers to review at the LA Screenings Independent.

    The Penthouse Game

    This brand-new experimental reality game show features individuals going through financial difficulties and competing for a cash prize. This thrilling competition features challenges to determine who will occupy the ultimate power of the penthouse. The players will utilize the gold tokens and move around using the elevator in the middle. There will be three hosts who will play different key roles in the show.

    Something Special president & executive producer Jin Woo Hwang stated: “Something Special is pleased to announce acquisitions for international licensing. We are honored that producers come to Something Special to take their shows out of Korea. The Penthouse Game is already gaining traction in Korea and in select markets, and both are set to be audience favorites.”

  • Film Companion’s fourth year to celebrate excellence with FC Gold Awards

    Film Companion’s fourth year to celebrate excellence with FC Gold Awards

    Mumbai: Film Companion, a celebration of film and entertainment journalism and one of India’s leading publishers has always championed the showcase of incredible talent in the business. The FC Gold Awards, since 2020, is Film Companion’s recognition for highlighting exceptional talent in the content and entertainment industry. This celebration continues to honour outstanding achievements in Indian cinema across various categories.

    The FC Gold Awards showcase remarkable contributions from the industry’s best, acknowledging stellar performances, visionary direction, and technical expertise. Since the year has begun some of the awardees represent a diverse range of talent from regional and national cinema, reflecting the richness and creativity of Indian filmmaking.

    FC Gold honours the industry’s best, including standout performances in films such as Lover (Tamil), Bramayugam (Malayalam), Poacher (Hindi/Malayalam), and Manjummel Boys (Malayalam).

    Furthermore, noteworthy performances that have garnered recognition include Nimisha Sajayan for Poacher, Prithviraj Sukumaran for Aadujeevitham, Pratik Gandhi for Madgaon Express, Diljit Dosanjh for Amar Singh Chamkila, and Fahadh Faasil for Aavesham. The awards also honour exceptional talent in editing and cinematography, with Aarti Bajaj recognised for Editing (Amar Singh Chamkila) and Shyju Khalid for Cinematography (Manjummel Boys), among others.

    Film Companion founder & editor Anupama Chopra, shared her enthusiasm for the FC Gold Awards 2024, “At Film Companion, we take immense pride in the FC Gold Awards, a hallmark of cinematic excellence. It’s a tribute to the unparalleled talent that graces our screens – from groundbreaking filmmaking to awe-inspiring performances. To all the esteemed awardees, your contributions shape the very fabric of cinema, and we applaud your dedication.  Congratulations on this well-deserved honour. May your achievements continue to inspire generations to come, as you carve your legacy in the annals of filmmaking history.”

  • ABP News launches ‘Narendra Bhai’ docu-series

    ABP News launches ‘Narendra Bhai’ docu-series

    Mumbai: ABP News, a Hindi news channel, is set to launch an exceptional documentary series titled “Narendra Bhai”, offering an unparalleled dive into the life of India’s prime minister Narendra Modi. Scheduled to premiere on 11 May, the series will comprise five episodes airing every Saturday at 9 pm, with repeat broadcasts on Sundays at 10 pm.

    “Narendra Bhai” promises to bring unheard stories and untold tales from people you haven’t met before, shedding light on the Prime Minister’s youth, adulthood, and the unwavering spirit that has driven him throughout his life’s journey. From the humble streets of Vadnagar to the corridors of power in New Delhi, the series aims to capture the essence of Prime Minister, Narendra Modi’s story, a perfect mix of purpose, perseverance, an unending love for the country and a fire to fight for better change. The show will be hosted by the renowned actor and voice-over artist Sharad Kelkar.

    The making of ‘Narendra Bhai’ signifies a significant achievement, presenting a distinctive portrayal of the Prime Minister’s life. The documentary-series offers perspectives from those intimately familiar with his journey, illuminating narratives of resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to the nation.

    ABP News has consistently excelled in delivering content that not only educates but also motivates, spotlighting the trajectories of visionary leaders who influence the nation’s story. With an ongoing dedication to innovative content and programming, ABP News seeks to inspire viewers, instilling a profound sense of empowerment and motivation to contribute positively to the nation’s advancement.

  • BAFTA Breakthrough India returns for a fourth year

    BAFTA Breakthrough India returns for a fourth year

    Mumbai: BAFTA, the leading UK charity for the screen arts, is back with its Breakthrough programme for a fourth year in India, in partnership with Netflix. BAFTA Breakthrough India identifies and celebrates the next generation of talented professionals in the films, games, and television industries across the country. This year also marks the second time the BAFTA Breakthrough programme opens applications simultaneously in India, the US and UK regions,

    BAFTA, through its mentorship and talent programme, has guided several creative individuals in the pursuit of their craft by curating an all-encompassing programme that helps breakthroughs address the barriers in their respective fields of work, sharpening their skills, and assisting them to create international networks that will accelerate their careers.

    The recipients will be part of one-to-one meetings with industry stalwarts and group roundtables. They will receive professional coaching to develop their professional and creative skills. They will also get access to all of BAFTA’s training, development and networking events for the duration of the programme, i.e., 12 months, along with opportunities to network with industry members across the world through BAFTA membership. Additionally, the breakthroughs will have a PR-backed showcase.

    BAFTA executive director, learning, inclusion, policy & membership Tim Hunter said: “We’re pleased to say that applications for BAFTA Breakthrough India are once again open. Thanks to the generous support of Netflix, this initiative will see us nurture a cohort of outstanding creative talent working in India’s film, television and games industries, and showcase their talents to our global membership – to be unveiled later this year.”

    Netflix India vice president of content Monika Shergill said: “The BAFTA Breakthrough India programme perfectly aligns with Netflix’s vision of empowering upcoming creative voices and bringing them to a global audience. The diversity of talent unearthed in the past four years is a testament to this programme’s immense success. We are thrilled to continue our collaboration with BAFTA and discover and nurture the next generation of Indian creative voices.”

    Sikhya Entertainment founder & CEO, film producer and Breakthrough India ambassador Guneet Monga Kapoor said: “India boasts of abundant creative talent, as evidenced by the past three editions of Breakthrough. I grew up at a time where access to such opportunities were unheard of. I highly encourage the next generation of creatives across film, television, and games in India to apply for this year’s programme. BAFTA Breakthrough offers invaluable resources to young change-makers in our industry, and I’m so excited to witness how this year’s participants will leverage the opportunities to refine their skills and elevate the Indian Screen Industries on an international platform.”

    As the principal partner for the sixth year of BAFTA Breakthrough, Netflix continues to provide integral support towards its global expansion. Through Breakthrough, BAFTA and Netflix share a joint vision to celebrate and provide opportunities for emerging talent across the world, bringing together international communities across global networks, to develop and support stories and voices from different cultures.

    BAFTA Breakthrough 2023 witnessed promising talent, including Abhinav Tyagi, who is an editor and worked on ‘An Insignificant Man’ in 2016 as editor, post producer, and chief assistant director. Shardul Bhardwaj was another cohort member who is actively working as an actor. He starred in the 2019 critically acclaimed film ‘Eeb Allay Ooo!’ and also served as an assistant director and casting director on Netflix’s 2018 film ‘Soni’.

    BAFTA Breakthrough opened doors across the globe for its previous cohorts, aiding them to share spaces with some of the most distinguished and influential people in their respective industries and learn through their expertise, knowledge, and experiences to further their careers with newer perspectives.

    Actress Tanya Maniktala was one of the breakthroughs during the first year of the programme in India. She starred in Mira Nair’s Netflix adaptation of Vikram Seth’s novel ‘A Suitable Boy’. In her testimony, Tanya Maniktala said, “It has been an incredible experience being associated with the BAFTA Breakthrough Programme. Thank you so much for all your guidance and encouragement.”

    Alokananda Dasgupta, a music composer and director, was a part of the 2022 cohort. She had the great fortune of interacting with actress, comedian, and producer Phoebe Waller-Bridge, along with directors Richie Mehta and Asif Kapadia. Comedian Sumukhi Suresh also received the opportunity to meet industry veterans like actress Ratna Pathak Shah and BBC Comedy Commissioner Emma Lawson, via the Breakthrough Programme.

    BAFTA’s commitment to excellence extends to its selection process. A distinguished jury of industry experts, meticulously chosen for their diverse experience and proven track record, will evaluate applications for BAFTA Breakthrough India. This ensures a comprehensive and insightful assessment of each candidate’s potential.

    BAFTA Breakthrough 2024 will culminate later this year, and the Breakthroughs/shortlisted participants from India, the US & UK regions will be concurrently revealed in a global announcement.

    Application Requirements:

    BAFTA is looking for candidates who:

    ● Aged 18 or over at the time of application 
    ● Primarily resident in India 
    ● Conversationally fluent in English 
    ● Working as an Animator, Choreographer, Cinematographer, Colourist, Composer, Costume Designer, Director, Editor, Game Developer, Game Director, Game Producer, Hair/Make-up Artist, Performer, Presenter, Producer, Producer/Director, Production Designer, Series Director, Series Producer, Sound Editor/Mixer, Writer or VFX/3D Artist within the Indian film, games or television industries

    **Though choreographers are not explicitly represented in BAFTA’s global membership, applicants can apply for the Breakthrough programme where, if selected, they will receive opportunities to develop knowledge and be connected with other departments and creatives across film, games and television, reflected in BAFTA’s membership and network.

    They will also have:

    ● A recommendation letter from a relevant regional film, games or television industry organisation 
    ● A leading professional credit on a piece of work that has been: ○ theatrically released in India between 1 June 2023 and 1 September 2024 (or is reasonably expected to at the time of application).

    ○ or broadcast on a television channel or OTT platform in India between 1 June 2023 and 1 September 2024 (or is reasonably expected to at the time of application).

    ○ or, for games, released in India on a publicly available platform between 1 June 2023 and 1 September 2024 (or is reasonably expected to at the time of application).

    ● A demonstrable ambition to collaborate and share their expertise with UK practitioners and/or to produce content for UK audiences

    Applications for BAFTA Breakthrough India 2024 open today, 7 May 2024. To learn more about the programme, eligibility criteria, and how to apply, please visit

    https://www.bafta.org/supporting-talent/breakthrough/bafta-breakthrough-india 

  • Geophil acquires multiple Turkish drama series for Indian market

    Geophil acquires multiple Turkish drama series for Indian market

    Mumbai: Geophil, the global co-production and distribution studio based in Dubai and headed up by MD Robin Philip, announce the acquisition of multiple Turkish drama series for distribution in India from major Turkish producers including Calinos Entertainment, Inter Medya, and MediaHub.

    Notable titles acquired include popular Turkish digital series Ilk Ve Son (English title: Deeply) from Calinos Entertainment (romantic drama focusing on the relationship of a young couple through their divorce a decade later), Aşk Laftan Anlamaz (English title: Love Doesn’t Understand Words) from Inter Medya (workplace romance between the owner’s son of a large fashion company and an employee) and Kirik Hayatlar (English title: Broken Lives) from MediaHub (romantic drama focusing on the sacrifices a couple make to stay together in spite of a mother willing to do anything for power). Additional titles acquired include Broken Destiny, Last Summer, and Aziz.

    Over the last year, Geophil has become a leading destination for premium Turkish content for Indian broadcasters. With their unique expertise in Turkish entertainment, Geophil has been able to source the most relevant and exciting content to audiences across the region, with more deals to be announced in the coming weeks.

    In addition to their distribution business, Geophil recently announced GlobalSphere Studios, a joint venture with Turkish media company MediaHub, focused on co-producing premium Turkish drama series. Alaca, the first series under the GlobalSphere brand, premiered to international buyers at MIPCOM 2023.

    Geophil MD Robin Philip stated: “Geophil is committed to working with the best Turkish distributors and studios to source series that captivate Indian audiences. Leveraging our content expertise in Turkiye, MENA, and Asia, we carefully select shows we believe will succeed, especially as certain themes in Turkish programming strongly resonate with Indian viewers. As we further expand our global co-production efforts, we’re proud to serve as a leading hub for Turkish content consumption throughout India.”

  • Experience the grandeur of Marathi Cinema; Tune in to RR Kabel Filmfare Awards Marathi 2024

    Experience the grandeur of Marathi Cinema; Tune in to RR Kabel Filmfare Awards Marathi 2024

    Mumbai: Brace yourselves to witness a grand and exciting evening as the RR Kabel Filmfare Awards Marathi 2024 is all set to grace your television screens! The highly anticipated premiere assures viewers of exclusive access to the biggest celebration in Marathi cinema, hosted by the dynamic duo of Amey Wagh and Siddharth Chaturvedi. The grand spectacle boasts an electrifying performance by the sensational Marathi singer Sanju Rathod, who sets the stage ablaze with his viral hit ‘Gulabi Sadi’, joined by renowned personalities like Sayali Sanjeev, Rinku Rajguru, Priyadarshini Indalkar, Gauri Nalawade, and Dipali Sayyed. Taking the entertainment quotient a notch higher, the star-studded extravaganza also features an impressive lineup of power-packed performances by some of Marathi cinema’s finest talents. Get ready to watch Prajakta Mali enchant the audience with a graceful ‘Lavani Thaska’, while Vaibhav Tatwawadi delivers a stellar act, portraying the true essence of spirited ‘Marathi Tadka.’ What’s more? Prathana Behere and Shruti Marathe take the stage with a jaw-dropping rendition of ‘Nach Ga Ghuma.’ To ensure that fans don’t miss out on this splendid celebration, tune in to the premiere of RR Kabel Filmfare Awards Marathi 2024 on 5 May, at 7 pm, only on Colors Marathi.

    The award ceremony honours talented actors and filmmakers, while acknowledging the valuable contributions of writers, musicians, cinematographers, and editors, among others. The premiere promises to illuminate moments of triumph, with Suhas Joshi receiving the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, alongside other celebrated figures such as Rohini Hattangadi winning the Best Actress (Critics’). At the same time, Ankush Choudhary takes home the prestigious Black Lady under the category of Best Actor (Critics’), while Shashank Shende and Gauri Deshpande bag the awards for Best Actor in a Leading Role (Male) and Best Actor in a Leading Role (Female), respectively. So, stay tuned for an unforgettable evening celebrating the best of Marathi cinema and watch your favourite stars win big at RR Kabel Filmfare Awards Marathi 2024.

    The 8th edition of Filmfare Awards Marathi is presented by RR Kabel as the Title Partner, Co-powered by Manforce & Swaroma Masale, In association with – Luker, Dazller – Range of Cosmetics, Anuroop Wiwaha Sanstha & Hell Energy Drink, Fragrance Partner – Yardley London, Skincare Partner – Green Leaf by Brihans, Security Partner – Godrej Home Lockers -Desh Ki Tijori, Exclusive Telecast partner – Colors Marathi, Exclusive Streaming partner – Jio Cinema, Ambient Media Partner – Khushi Advertising, Outdoor Partner – Bright Outdoor Media, Radio Partner – Radio Mirchi, Audio Partner – Gaana, Trophy Partner – Talisman Awards, Education Partner – Bennett University, Event Partner – Straightline solutions, Event Conceptualised and Produced By – Manasi Ingale, Surel Creations, Acts Choreographed by – Ashish Patil, On Air Production – The Next Bend Films, Technical & Stage Management – Oncue Productions, Scripted by – Vishal Bandal.

    Catch all the exciting moments from Marathi Cinema’s biggest celebration on 5th May, at 7 pm, only on Colors Marathi.

  • Dive into ‘One Piece: Wano Arc’ with director Tatsuya Nagamine’s exclusive message

    Dive into ‘One Piece: Wano Arc’ with director Tatsuya Nagamine’s exclusive message

    Mumbai: Cartoon Network is thrilled to announce the arrival of the globally acclaimed manga series ‘One Piece’ to Indian television screens! Director Tatsuya Nagamine extends a special invitation to viewers to join the Straw Hat Pirates on their latest escapades through the perilous Wano Country. Get ready for action, excitement, and heartwarming moments like never before, every Sunday at 1:00 pm and Monday through Friday at 9:00 pm!

    In a special video message, Tatsuya Nagamine, the director of the One Piece series, viewers are invited to join the Straw Hat Pirates on their latest escapades as they journey through the perilous Wano Country. With the promise of action, excitement, and heartwarming moments, fans can expect an unforgettable viewing experience.

    Produced by the legendary anime studio Toei Animation Inc and based on the top-selling manga title of all time by creator Eiichiro Oda, ONE PIECE is an epic sea tale chronicling the escapades of unstoppable Monkey D. Luffy, a pirate with an unflinching drive to become the pirate king. Together, Luffy and the courageous Straw Hat Pirates forge a path through unimaginable hardships and experiences during their thrilling captivating journey. A truly amazing feast is in store for every ride-or-die ONE PIECE fan, as ‘One Piece: Land of Wano Arc’ arrives on Cartoon Network. Sending waves of excitement through the Indian anime community, the plot of Wano Country Arc centres on the Ninja-Pirate-Mink-Samurai Alliance assembling their forces to anticipate the impending battle with the Beasts Pirates and save the world from Kaido.

    Watch One Piece: Land of Wano Arc starting 5 May at 1:00 pm, with a repeat telecast at 9:00 pm every Sunday, featuring power-packed episodes brimming with sea tales. 
     

  • Get your giggles on with “Oh Teri!” on Zing!

    Get your giggles on with “Oh Teri!” on Zing!

    Mumbai: Popular youth entertainment channel, Zing, remains steadfast in its commitment to embodying the spirit of the youth. Following the successful launch of ‘Snaackz’, which features content tailored to Gen-Z’s lifestyle needs from upcoming lifestyle content creators, Zing now aims to delight audiences with ‘Oh Teri!’. This exciting addition promises to elevate the humour quotient with a collection of prank videos from the top creators in the space.

    Scheduled to premiere on 5 May 2024, which is ‘World Laughter Day’, ‘Oh Teri’ is set to become a staple for those seeking a good laugh. The line-up of contributors includes ‘Sahil Virwani Pranks from Mumbai’, ‘Devraj Das and Swagata Banerjee aka Prank Buzz from Kolkata’ and ‘Ravi Yadav aka DR Prank from Prayagraj’, each renowned for their distinct comedic flair. These creators have a robust fan base across social media platforms with over 4Mn subscribers collectively. Oh Teri! guarantees a laugh-a-minute with a unique brand of humour on display, from rib-tickling prank videos and light-hearted mischief to hilarious chaos. Just like ‘Snaackz’, ‘Oh Teri!’ will also be promoted across mediums to ensure it reaches our audiences on TV and Social Media.

    Commenting on the launch, Zing business head Pankaj Balhara shared, “With ‘Oh Teri!’ we have an exciting addition to Zing’s content offering! Humorous content has a unique way of connecting Gen-Z and spreading joy, especially given the fast-paced world we live in where everything is on the go. By providing a platform for up-and-coming creators, Zing is not only entertaining its audience but also fostering a community where talent can thrive. With this initiative, our aim is not only to entertain but also to empower creators from across India to reach wider audiences. With “Oh Teri!” Zing endeavours to become the go-to destination for hilarious and engaging content that resonates with the youth.”

    By offering a stage to creators nationwide, Zing persistently reshapes the digital entertainment landscape, forging stronger bonds with its audience while serving up limitless entertainment. Zing has always been at the forefront of creating relevant content for the Youth and with Snaackz and Oh Teri! this is just the beginning to what lies ahead.

    ‘Oh Teri!’ premieres 5 May, only on Zing! Brace yourselves for laugh riots and to say Oh Teri!

  • Sima Taparia & Kian team up to find a life partner for his mother

    Sima Taparia & Kian team up to find a life partner for his mother

    Mumbai: Zee TV’s upcoming fiction offering, Main Hoon Saath Tere, introduces viewers to Janvi (played by Ulka Gupta), a single mother navigating the challenges of parenthood all by herself. Set against the backdrop of Gwalior, Janvi lives with her son, Kian (portrayed by Nihan Jain), who is the nucleus of her world. Although Kian doesn’t miss a father figure, he still feels the void of a man in his mother’s life, especially since he sees her taking care of everything single-handedly. The plot thickens when Janvi’s path intersects with Aryaman (Karan Vohra), a wealthy businessman, and they find themselves sharing the same workplace. While Aryaman expresses romantic interest in Janvi, the fate of their love story rests in the hands of little Kian. Will he approve of this match?

    To guide him in this situation and to show him the right way, renowned matchmaker Sima Taparia joined hands with him. In a one-of-its-kind collaboration, Sima with her act parameters for arranged marriage pairings and her famous one-liners, helps young Kian analyze whether Aryaman ticks all the boxes for Janvi. She looks at the profiles of Janvi and Aryaman and is surprised to see the perfect compatibility between them. With her expertise and intuition at play, she gives Aryaman a green light, and calls Janvi and Aryaman’s jodi, a match made in heaven!

     

     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    A post shared by Zee TV (@zeetv)

     

    Talking about this association, Sima Taparia said, “When Zee TV approached me with this unique concept of their upcoming show where a young kid is on the lookout for a suitable partner for his single mom, I immediately signed up for it as it is a truly unique plot. As the character of young Kian embarks on a journey of finding a suitable companion for Janvi, my years of experience in matchmaking will help him decide whether Aryaman is the right choice for her. Let’s hope this promotional collaboration helps this endearing story reach a larger audience across India.”

    While Kian will be seen testing Aryaman on whether he is the perfect match for his mother in the show, Aryaman tries everything possible to convince him. Will Janvi and Aryaman get Kian’s approval after all? It will be interesting for the viewers to watch an innocent take on love, life, and relationships, which is all set to unfold.

    Produced by Full House Media Pvt Ltd, Main Hoon Saath Tere will premiere starting 29 April, at 07:30 pm only on Zee TV!