MUMBAI: Turner has announced two key appointments for its theatrical venture in India. Cartoon Network Enterprises executive director Jiggy George has been given additional charge to set up theatrical division which will leverage the power of Turner channels, consumer products and new media businesses to market these films effectively.
In addition, Chitra Subramaniam has been appointed as director features for the theatrical division and will work closely with George.
As head of the division, George will be responsible for all aspects of the theatrical business including production, marketing, distribution, licensing and merchandising and ancillary functions. He will develop the core resource team and formulate strategic partnerships with studios and distributors for the business venture.
Subramanium will be responsible for developing theatrical films on both animation and live action format. Her mandate will be to create a talent pool and manage co-production and marketing of the theatrical projects.
Earlier this year, Turner had announced that they will pump in multi-million dollars to establish a production unit which will make animated films for theatrical release and live action television series. The company will seek local production and development partners.
Turner International India VP and deputy general manager entertainment networks South Asia Monica Tata said, “Our theatrical venture is an extension of Cartoon Network and Pogo’s long standing vision to embed themselves into the lifestyle of Indian kids. By introducing content on the big screen into the mix, we now offer kids’ entertainment across another platform. We are very happy that Jiggy, with his rich industry experience, inspiring vision and relentless drive will lead this division catapulting Turner into the theatrical business.”
Giving an update on the business division, Tata further shared, “This venture is a key initiative in India and we are at the critical phase of laying its foundation. We are in the process of identifying the right projects, resources and are evaluating co-production options with studios.”
George will continue to drive the licensing and merchandising strategies for Cartoon Network and Pogo in India.
Prior to Turner, Subramanium was at the helm of film production business having worked with Studio 18 and Percept.
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