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Tag: Game of Thrones

  • Medusa Beverages to launch House of the Dragon beer in Haryana early next year

    Medusa Beverages to launch House of the Dragon beer in Haryana early next year

    MUMBAI: Dragons have captivated Gen Z ever since eight seasons of The Game of Thrones recorded unbelievable viewership numbers the world over. The prequel House of the Dragon also set the house on fire on HBO Max and linear TV channels, and was renewed for three seasons, and is scheduled to end with the fourth season. 

    In July this year, home grown beer brand Medusa Beverages signed a licensing deal with Warner Bros Discovery Global Consumer Products (WBDGCP) and announced that it was introducing an exclusive House of Dragon variant for beer and dragon lovers as collectibles. This limited-edition brew features a smoky, fiery flavour profile that reflects the mystique and spirit of the HBO original drama.

    The House of the Dragon beer has been rolling out in Delhi, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Himachal Pradesh ever since. Medusa Beverages now says Haryana is expected to join the line up early next year in a press release. 

    The company points out  that the partnership taps into the universal fascination with dragons—symbols of fire, strength, and mythical grandeur—to create a unique sensory experience. The smoky, burnt notes of the beer mirror the fiery essence of roasted malts, while its robust profile is designed to resonate with those who appreciate a drink that tells a story. The House of Dragon beer is more than a beverage—it’s an invitation to indulge in a flavourful journey that aligns with the allure of fantasy and mythology.

    Medusa Beverages founder & CEO Avneet Singh highlights that the brewer believes in crafting beers that tell a story and bring people together and that he wanted beer-guzzlers to experience a drink larger than life. 
    “Our collaboration with Warner Bros. for the House of Dragons beer celebrates boldness and creativity. The smoky, fiery essence is our way of paying homage to the mystical dragons that inspire strength and awe in all of us,” he adds.”

    Medusa Beverages is not the only company and it is not the first time WBDGCP  has extended its House of the Dragon licence for the famed series. Picaddily Distilleries – the maker of the famed Indri single malt brand – had introduced a whisky collection with two distinct flavours inspired by the iconic councils of Westeros in Jully 2024.  The first – the House of Black, and the second – the House of Green.

    In 2022, it had signed up with Bira91 which introduced House of the Dragon beer  in 330ml bottles and 500ml cans across Mumbai, Bengaluru, Delhi, and Pune.  Then the dragon brand made its appearance on US winery Seven Kingdoms Cellars which launched wines .  Danish brewery Mikkeller,  also released Syrax Rises, a  beer collectible in the same year.

  • Five must-watch Hindi-dubbed series for max entertainment

    Five must-watch Hindi-dubbed series for max entertainment

    Mumbai: Embark on an exhilarating journey through the world of Hollywood’s finest series, now tailored to resonate with Hindi-speaking audiences worldwide. From gripping dramas to spine-chilling mysteries, these five must-watch series promise to transport you to realms of intrigue, suspense, and unbridled excitement. Whether you’re a fan of legal thrills, epic fantasy, or adrenaline-fueled heists, there is something here for everyone.

    Better Call Saul

    Set to premiere on Zee Cafe on 1 April at 10 pm, the series dubbed in Hindi has already become a much anticipated show, evident from fans’ reactions across the internet. The prequel to Breaking Bad follows Jimmy McGill’s transformation into the morally flexible lawyer ‘Saul Goodman’ played by Bob Odenkirk. Within the same universe as Breaking Bad, the series explores Saul’s backstory, his diverse clientele, and the intricate legal landscape. With stellar performances and captivating storytelling, Better Call Saul is essential viewing for fans craving intense drama and compelling character arcs.

    Breaking Bad

    Premiered as ‘Baap of all shows’ Breaking Bad in Hindi last year on Zee Cafe is a groundbreaking series that chronicles the transformation of a high school chemistry teacher, Walter White (Bryan Cranston), into a ruthless methamphetamine manufacturer. Fueled by Bryan Cranston’s Emmy-winning performance as Walter White, this dark and gritty drama explores themes of morality, power, and the consequences of one’s choices. Dubbed in Hindi, the series retains its intensity and suspense, making it an unforgettable viewing experience.

    Game of Thrones

    Game of Thrones, adapted from George R.R. Martin’s renowned novels, takes viewers to the mythical realms of Westeros and Essos, where noble houses compete for the Iron Throne. The captivating fantasy series has entranced audiences across the globe with its intricate plotlines, well-developed characters, and stunning visuals. Watching Game of Thrones in Hindi offers an immersive experience, enhancing the enjoyment of its richly woven narrative and epic conflicts, making it a compelling choice for fans of fantasy and political drama.

    Stranger Things

    The series chronicles the adventures of a group of kids in Hawkins, a small town, as they confront supernatural entities and unravel government secrets. Drawing inspiration from iconic 80s cinema and television, this sci-fi horror masterpiece pays tribute to the pop culture of its era. With a blend of suspense, humour, and touching moments, Stranger Things has evolved into a cultural sensation, captivating audiences of every generation. Watching Stranger Things in Hindi offers a nostalgic journey infused with the essence of the era, making it an irresistible choice for viewers seeking immersive entertainment in their native language.

    Money Heist

    Money Heist follows the meticulous planning and execution of daring heists orchestrated by the enigmatic Professor and his team of skilled criminals. Set in Spain, this Spanish thriller is known for its adrenaline-pumping action, intricate plot twists, and complex characters. Dubbed in Hindi, the series has gained a massive international following and has become one of most popular offerings. With its high-stakes heists and gripping suspense, the series is a must-watch for fans of crime dramas.

    These series are not just dubbed, they are reimagined for Hindi audiences, ensuring a truly unforgettable viewing experience. So, grab your popcorn and get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating narratives of Better Call Saul, Breaking Bad, Game of Thrones, Stranger Things, and Money Heist. 

  • Journey Through the Reel: Discovering Europe’s Most Iconic TV and Film Locations

    Journey Through the Reel: Discovering Europe’s Most Iconic TV and Film Locations

    Europe, a continent rich in history and culture, has long been a favoured destination for filmmakers and TV producers, offering a myriad of stunning locations that have captivated audiences worldwide. From the bustling streets of London to the picturesque villages of the Mediterranean, these destinations have become more than just settings – they are characters in their own right, integral to the stories being told. For travellers seeking the best city breaks in Europe, embarking on a journey to these memorable locations offers a unique way to experience the magic of their favourite TV shows and films. This article explores some of the most iconic European settings featured in popular media, providing a guide for your next cinematic-inspired trip.

    1. Dubrovnik, Croatia: The Real King’s Landing

    ‘Game of Thrones’ Phenomenon

    Dubrovnik, a stunning coastal city in Croatia, gained worldwide recognition as the filming location for King’s Landing in the critically acclaimed TV series ‘Game of Thrones’. This medieval city, with its ancient walls and historic architecture, provided the perfect backdrop for the fictional capital of the Seven Kingdoms. A 2019 survey revealed that 50% of the series’ fans expressed a desire to visit Dubrovnik, showcasing its impact on tourism.

    Exploring the City

    Visitors can explore the iconic Fort Lovrijenac, the setting for the Red Keep, and walk the city walls where pivotal scenes were shot. The nearby Trsteno Arboretum, another filming location, offers a serene escape and a glimpse into the lush gardens of King’s Landing.

    2. Edinburgh, Scotland: The Wizarding World Comes to Life

    Harry Potter’s Magical Alleys

    Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is intrinsically linked with the Harry Potter series. J.K. Rowling penned much of the early novels in the city, drawing inspiration from its enchanting streets and historic buildings. The picturesque Victoria Street is said to be the real-world inspiration for Diagon Alley, captivating fans with its vibrant shops and cobbled paths.

    Literary Pilgrimage

    The Elephant House café, where Rowling wrote parts of the series, has become a pilgrimage site for fans. Additionally, the Balmoral Hotel, where Rowling completed the final book, offers a special Harry Potter package, complete with a tour of locations that inspired the author.

    3. Paris, France: Romance in the City of Lights

    ‘Amélie’ and the Charm of Montmartre

    Paris, often dubbed the city of love and lights, has been the backdrop for numerous films, but none perhaps as charmingly Parisian as ‘Amélie’. Set in the bohemian Montmartre district, the film showcases the quintessential Parisian experience, from quaint cafés to scenic streets. A 2018 study found that locations featured in ‘Amélie’ saw a 30% increase in tourist visits.

    Following Amélie’s Footsteps

    Tourists can visit the iconic Café des Deux Moulins where Amélie worked, stroll through the vibrant Place du Tertre, and take in the views from the steps of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, all pivotal locations in the film.

    4. Salzburg, Austria: A Musical Journey

    ‘The Sound of Music’ Legacy

    Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, is also known for its association with ‘The Sound of Music’. This beloved musical, filmed in and around Salzburg, continues to attract fans to its picturesque settings. Mirabell Gardens, where the song ‘Do-Re-Mi’ was filmed, and the Nonnberg Abbey, are must-visit spots for enthusiasts.

    Organized Tours and Festivals

    The city offers organized ‘Sound of Music’ tours, taking fans to various filming locations. Additionally, the annual Salzburg Festival celebrates the film and the city’s musical heritage, drawing thousands of visitors each year.

    5. Matmata, Tunisia: A Galaxy Far, Far Away

    ‘Star Wars’ and the Desert Planet

    Matmata in Tunisia may seem an unlikely tourist destination, but its unique landscape made it the perfect setting for Tatooine, the desert planet in ‘Star Wars’. The troglodyte dwellings of Matmata were transformed into the home of Luke Skywalker, bringing an otherworldly charm to the small Tunisian town.

    Ongoing Attraction for Fans

    Despite the decades since the original ‘Star Wars’ release, fans continue to flock to Matmata to visit the iconic Hotel Sidi Driss, which served as the interior for Luke’s home. The site remains a testament to the enduring appeal of the “Star Wars” universe.

    6. Bruges, Belgium: Medieval Backdrop of a Dark Comedy

    ‘In Bruges’ and the Medieval City

    The medieval city of Bruges in Belgium was the primary location for the dark comedy ‘In Bruges’. With its well-preserved medieval architecture, picturesque canals, and cobblestone streets, Bruges provided an idyllic yet melancholic backdrop for the film.

    Exploring the City’s Charms

    Visitors can explore the Belfry of Bruges, where key scenes were shot, and enjoy a boat tour along the canals, much like the film’s protagonists. The city’s blend of history, art, and unique Flemish culture makes it a must-visit destination.

    7. Florence, Italy: Renaissance in the Spotlight

    ‘A Room with a View’ and the Italian Romance

    Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, gained cinematic fame through movies like ‘A Room with a View’. This film showcased the city’s romantic allure, with its art-rich galleries and scenic vistas. Florence’s Palazzo Vecchio and the surrounding Tuscan countryside have since become synonymous with the film’s exploration of love and beauty.

    Walking Through Art and History

    Visitors can take guided tours highlighting locations from the film, including the Uffizi Gallery and Piazza della Signoria. The city’s blend of art, history, and cinematic nostalgia creates a deeply immersive experience, making it a top destination for film buffs and art lovers alike.

    8. London, England: A Cinematic Melting Pot

    ‘Notting Hill’ and Urban Romance

    London’s cosmopolitan vibe has been captured in numerous films, but ‘Notting Hill’ stands out for its portrayal of the city’s charming, eclectic neighbourhoods. The film’s use of Portobello Road Market and the iconic blue door of William Thacker’s house has made Notting Hill an essential stop for rom-com fans.

    Beyond the Big Screen

    London’s cinematic appeal extends beyond specific films, with landmarks like the Tower Bridge, the British Museum, and the Houses of Parliament appearing in countless movies. A tour of London offers a multifaceted experience, combining historical grandeur with modern cinematic appeal.

    9. Prague, Czech Republic: A Fairy Tale Setting

    The Magical Backdrop of ‘Amadeus’

    Prague’s historic and bohemian charm was beautifully captured in the Oscar-winning film ‘Amadeus’. The city’s baroque architecture and old-world streets perfectly depicted 18th-century Vienna, the setting for Mozart’s life story.

    Exploring the City’s Cinematic Beauty

    Visitors can explore the Estates Theatre, where scenes from ‘Amadeus’ were filmed, and wander through the ancient streets of the Old Town. Prague’s enchanting atmosphere, rich in history and culture, makes it a favourite for filmmakers and tourists alike.

    10. Barcelona, Spain: Architectural Marvels on Screen

    ‘Vicky Cristina Barcelona’ and Gaudí’s Masterpieces

    Barcelona’s unique architecture, particularly the works of Antoni Gaudí, played a starring role in Woody Allen’s ‘Vicky Cristina Barcelona’. The film’s use of locations like Park Güell and the Sagrada Família highlighted the city’s artistic flair and Mediterranean charm.

    A Tour of Gaudí’s Creations

    Tourists can embark on a journey through Gaudí’s architectural wonders, experiencing the vibrant culture and artistic spirit of Barcelona. The city’s blend of art, history, and modernity makes it an irresistible destination for movie enthusiasts.

    11. Reykjavik, Iceland: Otherworldly Landscapes

    ‘Interstellar’ and Iceland’s Extraterrestrial Terrain

    Iceland, with its dramatic landscapes, has become a popular filming location for sci-fi movies, most notably in ‘Interstellar’. The country’s glaciers, black sand beaches, and rugged terrain provided the perfect stand-in for alien planets, captivating audiences with their ethereal beauty.

    Experiencing Iceland’s Natural Wonders

    Visitors to Iceland can explore the same locations used in ‘Interstellar’, such as the Svínafellsjökull glacier and the volcanic beaches of Vik. Iceland offers a unique opportunity to experience the awe-inspiring natural settings that have become synonymous with otherworldly cinematic adventures.

    Conclusion

    Europe’s tapestry of cities and landscapes has not only provided breathtaking backdrops for some of the most memorable films and TV shows but also offers travellers a chance to immerse themselves in these cinematic worlds. From the Renaissance streets of Florence to the otherworldly landscapes of Iceland, each destination offers its own unique allure, blending art, history, and the magic of the movies. As you plan your next European adventure, consider these iconic locations for an experience that transcends the screen, bringing the stories and settings you love to life.

  • “The Indian smartwatch industry is making great waves”: Pebble’s Komal Agarwal

    “The Indian smartwatch industry is making great waves”: Pebble’s Komal Agarwal

    Mumbai: Pebble is a lifestyle technology brand that endeavours to provide a smooth experience with a perfect blend of technology and design in each of the products. It is one of fastest growing home-grown smart wearable brands in the country having its presence across 10000+ retail points and all leading ecommerce platforms.

    Komal Agarwal co-founded the brand Pebble in the year 2013. She is an electronic engineer from NTU, Singapore, and an IIM Calcutta post-graduate. She has worked with corporate houses like JP Morgan & Mckinsey before finally starting up her own venture. Being a millennial herself, she understood the latent need for good quality affordable charging solutions back then and launched Pebble with a range of chargers and power banks. The portfolio in eight years has grown to more than 100+ SKUs in various categories including headphones, speakers, and most recently Smart Wearables. She is instrumental in growing Pebble into one of the most sought-after lifestyle accessories brands in India. She now personally leads the New Tech & Ecosystem development for Pebble.

    Indiantelevision.com caught up in an email interaction with Agarwal, where she provides some vital information about the smartwatch industry…

    Edited excerpts

    On innovations emerging in the smartwatch industry and Pebble capitalising on them

    The trend in the smartwatch industry has remained inclined of late towards advancement in technology. For instance, smartwatches with advanced display, such as AMOLED are creating quite an impact among the consumers. Besides, the style quotient is also among the dominating trends in the industry. There is increased demand for interchangeable silicon, leather and metallic straps while one smartwatch with multiple dial options is also in great demand. This is in addition to the consistent trend of consumers focusing on advanced Bluetooth calling, health suite and utility features.

    The other most decisive trend seen in the market is that of affordability, for consumers seek spec-rich smartwatches in a pocket-friendly price point. Counterpoint report the Indian smartwatch market for Q1 2023 suggests that a decline has been seen in high-price and high-performance HLOS smartwatches while demand has surged for affordable products with a certain performance level.

    We at Pebble are consistently diversifying our product portfolio on the basis of the growing demands and needs among consumers, and are leading the way for homegrown smartwatch players by being ahead of the trends.

    On the collaboration with Warner Bros and the benefits behind it as a brand

    Pebble has recently joined forces with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products, and have unveiled a trio of Game Of Throne inspired smartwatches, crafted with a vision to offer an immersive ‘Fire and Ice’ experience when it comes to unboxing. The smartwatch range captivates the watch faces that have been inspired by the fire of GOT characters and houses namely the fiery House Targaryen, the wintry House Stark and White Walkers with ice-like resemblance. With thematic UI experiences, the GOT inspired smartwatches provides an immersive and unique experience for GOT fans.

    With this collaboration, it gives us great joy to have evolved from being a domestic wearable player to an entity making a substantial impact on the global smartwatch market. Collaborating with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products to provide an unmatched experience to Game of Thrones fans in India is a significant step forward for us and demonstrates our commitment to excellence and addressing the different ambitions of young Indians. This collaboration is the first step towards our goal of becoming a global brand which resonates with consumers across the world and will surely help Pebble create a niche.

    On Pebble’s market share evolving over the years, and the factors having influenced these changes

    Being a homegrown brand, Pebble has always had the edge in rightly ascertaining the most intrinsic needs as well as aspirations of Indian consumers. Over the past decade, wearables have evolved from being mere fitness trackers to gadgets laced with multiple high-end features. And for the past nearly 5-6 years, Pebble has remained an instrumental part of the growth journey of the Indian wearable space. As one of the fastest growing smartwatch brands in the country, Pebble currently stands among the top 5 brands in the segment. It is the factor of design combined with cutting-edge features and specs that has led to such widespread acceptance of Pebble as a formidable wearable brand.

    On the future of the Indian smartwatch industry, and new trends can we expect in the next five years

    The Indian smartwatch industry is making great waves and has surpassed even China and the US, which were traditionally the largest producers till now. The significance of this growth can be seen in the fact that while the global smartwatch industry has seen a contraction in the past two quarters, the Indian market has registered a phenomenal 167% YoY growth, thereby ensuring that the global shrinkage can be contained to just 1.5%. The Indian smartwatch industry is dominating the global market at present, and the future is expected to be even better and bigger. As for the innovations, we expect that in the near future, there may be increased IOT and AI integration in smartwatches, 4G Calling watches becoming mainstream and other smart wearables such as Smart Rings gaining traction.  

     

  • Pebble unveils special edition Game of Thrones smartwatch range in India

    Pebble unveils special edition Game of Thrones smartwatch range in India

    Mumbai: Pebble, the fastest-growing homegrown audio and wearable brand, in collaboration with Warner Bros. Discovery global consumer products, has unveiled an exclusive Game of Thrones inspired smartwatch range for Indian enthusiasts of the legendary HBO Original series.

    Drawing inspiration from the Seven Kingdoms, Pebble introduces a trio of meticulously crafted smartwatches, each offering an immersive ‘Fire and Ice’ unboxing experience and a plethora of innovative features. With a circular metallic dial adorned with a rotating crown and premium leather straps reminiscent of the Game of Thrones ambience, the smartwatches encapsulate the series’ essence.

    Pebble co-founder Komal Agarwal said, “It is a matter of immense pride for us that we have traversed from being a homegrown wearable player to an entity creating a significant impact on the global stage. Collaborating with Warner Bros. Discovery global consumer products to offer an unprecedented experience to Game of Thrones fans in India is a major stepping stone for us and a testimony to our commitment towards excellence and meeting the diverse aspirations of young Indians.”

    For fans of the Iron Throne quest, the smartwatch range flaunts various captivating watch faces inspired by the fire of the Game of Thrones houses and characters such as the fiery House Targaryen, the wintry House Stark, and the ice-like resemblance of the White Walkers. With the thematic User Interface (UI) to the iconic Game of Thrones boot screen, each timepiece will resonate with the distinctions and attributions of the various elements from the series.

    Adding to the whole experience, the smartwatches will also deliver an unmatched unboxing experience with Game of Thrones inspired packaging including a Westeros map and the coveted Iron Throne waiting to be unfolded. Each watch includes a themed keychain, an immersive letter bringing the tale of ice and fire to life, and stickers to showcase devotion to the series.

    Referring to the features, these timepieces boast a feather-touch display with a 1.43″ AMOLED HD screen. The Game of Thrones themed always on display feature adds further to the style element while ensuring clear visibility even in bright daylight with its impressive 600 NITS brightness. Along with bluetooth calling functionality, these timepieces offer smart notifications and over 100 sports modes, catering to a wide range of fitness activities. The health suite includes essential features such as HR (Heart Rate) monitoring, SPO2 (blood oxygen) monitoring, and sleep monitoring to help users track their well-being. Additionally, the zen mode provides a much-needed respite, allowing users to find a moment of calm amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life.

    This dream collection is now available exclusively at the special launch price of Rs 5499. Fans can acquire their own piece of the beloved series at pebblecart.com, amazon.in, and select retail stores.

  • Warner Bros. Discovery to have a real focus on movie franchises: CEO David Zaslav

    Warner Bros. Discovery to have a real focus on movie franchises: CEO David Zaslav

    Mumbai: Speaking to analysts to announce his company’s third quarter results, Warner Bros Discovery CEO David Zaslav said that the company is going to have a real focus on movie franchises. 

    When asked about how he would characterise the content strategy now and what the difference is going to be, he said, “We haven’t had a Superman movie in 13 years. We haven’t done a Harry Potter movie in 15 years. The DC movies and Harry Potter movies provided a lot of the profits of Warner Brothers Motion Pictures over the last 25 years. So focus on the franchise. One of the big advantages that we have, House of the Dragon is an example of that, Game of Thrones, taking advantage of Sex in the City, Lord of the Rings, we still have the right to do Lord of the Rings movies. What are the movies that have brands that are understood and loved everywhere in the world?”

    He added, “Outside of the US most in the aggregate Europe, Latin America, Asia, it’s about 40 per cent of the theatres that we have here in the US, and there’s local content. So, when you have a franchise film, you can frequently make twice as much money as you would in the US because you get a slot and a focus on the big movies that are loved, that are tentpoles, that people will leave home, leave early from dinner to see, and we have a lot of them: Batman, Superman, Aquaman. What are we doing with Game of Thrones if we can’t do anything with JK Rowling’s Harry Potter or Lord of the Rings? What are we doing with a lot of the big franchises that we have? We’re focused on franchises.”

    The company has learned what doesn’t work. Movies must be released in theatres. “And this is what doesn’t work for us based on everything that we’ve seen, and we’ve looked at it hard. One is direct to streaming movies. So spending a billion dollars or collapsing a motion picture window into a streaming service does not work too well for us. The movies that we launch in the theatre do significantly better, and launching a two-hour or an hour and 40 minute movie direct to streaming has done almost nothing for HBO Max in terms of viewership, retention, or love of the service. The other is that the entire library, or almost the entire library, shouldn’t be on HBO Max and paid for by HBO Max,” he stated.

    He said, “We have an extraordinary library, Friends, Big Bang Theory, Two and a Half Men. There are 15 or 20 series that are loved and used and nourish the audience on a regular basis. However, there are a large number of series and films that are not being used at all. If none of it’s being used, why aren’t we putting it on an AVoD, where it will be used?”

    “We’ve looked at what people are watching on Pluto and on Tubi, it’s very different. They love Rawhide and Bonanza. They are not watching that. They are not watching old series like Dynasty on Macs. And so there is a platform where people have expectations and what they want to watch, and we’ve been able to get a real vision into what people are consuming, and ultimately, that gives us a roadmap,” Zaslav added. 

    “So what library is really beneficial to us, and then, and a lot of that stuff, we might keep on there, but it doesn’t have to be exclusive. It could also be on AVoD. We could sell it to someone else because no one is subscribing to or staying on a particular one of our services even though it’s there. And so, I think what we’re really trying to understand is what has worked on the platform and what hasn’t, and then based on that, we’ll determine how to operate going forward,” he stated.

    He said that he is pleased with all that the company has accomplished in the first six months as a combined company. “We have had to work through a number of really tough issues, some anticipated, some unexpected, and we continue to make the difficult decisions that we know are necessary to position our company for long-term growth and success.

    “As you would expect with a deal of this magnitude, a significant amount of change is required in a dynamic and changing industry and amidst the more challenging economic environment,” Zaslav added. In fact, we see this as presenting a meaningful opportunity, one that we have seized wholeheartedly. This is an opportunity to look inside each one of our businesses and really determine what’s working and what’s not. Is it structured properly? Does it have the right assets, people, and resources to be effective and the best of class in the environment we face today?” 

    “None of this is easy, and nothing happens overnight. That said, we are fully committed and laser-focused. I believe we have the strongest hand in the industry in terms of the completeness and quality of our portfolio of assets and our IP across sports, news, nonfiction, and entertainment, in virtually every region of the globe and in every language,” he pointed out.

    “Six months in, we now have a full, strong, and energising leadership team in place, and we are confident we have the right strategy and are making the structural and strategic changes to successfully achieve our goal of becoming the greatest media and entertainment company in the world capable of generating significantly higher earnings and free cash flow than we are today and creating real long-term sustainable shareholder value,” he stated.

    He went on to elucidate, “Last quarter we laid out three strategic priorities that serve as our guiding principles and influence our decision making, strategically, operationally, and financially. Starting with content, content is the heart of everything we do, and we are investing at historic levels in the highest quality storytelling, sports, and news. All the hard work we are doing now will allow us to continue making meaningful investments in content to support our plans going forward.”

    Zaslav added that the portfolio is led by the strongest content among the creative executives in the business. And he stressed that one of the things that differentiates these leaders is that they do more than just pick shows and write checks. “They support and nurture our creativity and talent and help them bring their bold visions to life on screens large and small. They are doers who have spent time in the control room developing films and TV shows, writing scripts, and working closely with talent and creatives. 

    “They know their crafts inside and out; they know what it takes to create compelling, unforgettable experiences for fans worldwide. And they know how to replicate that success and storytelling over and over,” he said.

    Warner Bros. Discovery CEO & president global streaming and interactive Jean-Briac Perrette said that the audience will tell you what they love; they’ll spend time with it. “They’ll watch it and rewatch it, and you can see it in terms of ratings on cable and free-to-air, and you can see it on — we can see it on Max in terms of seeing exactly what people spend time with.” And we look at it, and we look at it hard. If we have a scripted show, that’s $7.5 million. And if it gets a 0.43, it means that some have written that we’re not committed to scripted on TNT. We’re very committed to scripting, but we want to measure what people are watching and what they’re not. If a repeat of Two and a Half Men or Big Bang Theory gets three times the reading of a brand new show that we greenlit for another season, that’s a show that costs us $7.6 million. We’re going to cancel that show.”

    “And we’re going to try and get another scripted series that has a chance to really deliver, delight, and engage an audience. But we are being deliberate about measuring how the shows are doing. As I said, let me be very clear: we did not get rid of any show that is helping us. And we got rid of those shows so we could focus on producing new content and using everything we learned on each platform to make new choices.”

    “It’s a business of failure,” he said, “but we’d rather take that money and spend it again and have a chance of having a show that engages in delight on either our traditional platforms or our subscription platforms.”

  • After 2020 dream run, ‘Ramayan’ returns to the small screen

    After 2020 dream run, ‘Ramayan’ returns to the small screen

    NEW DELHI: As the country once again descends into chaos and distress due to the surging number of Covid2019 cases, there is one small piece of good news for the people – Ramanand Sagar's Ramayan is all set to make yet another comeback on our TV sets.

    The mythological show that struck a chord with TV viewers last year during lockdown broke all TRP records when it was broadcast on national television after many years. The timing of the re-telecast of Ramayan is apropos, given that we’re dealing with another peak in the Covid2019 cycle.

    This time, the show will air on Star Bharat at 7 pm ahead of Ram Navami. This 80s serial has a special place in everyone's heart and that is why the channel has decided to air the show on it once again, on popular demand. Meanwhile, for the unversed, Ramayan was first telecast in 1987 on DD National. Last year, the programme led to a spike in co-watching, as everyone in the household – from the elderly to young children – seemed to be hooked to their TV sets during lockdown to watch the show.

    Ramayan is based on the ancient Indian Sanskrit epic of Lord Ram and Devi Sita. The script of the show was written and directed by the late Ramanand Sagar. The cast of the show includes Arun Govil as Ram, Deepika Chikhaliya who played Sita, Sunil Lahiri portraying Lakshman, late Dara Singh essaying the role of Hanuman, and many others.

    In 2020, the show went on to shatter all records when it came to the TRP game and led to a golden, albeit brief, dream run for the state-run Doordarshan channel on which it aired. It managed to beat the worldwide popular series Game Of Thrones to become the most-watched TV show. According to reports, 7.7 crore viewers watched Ramayan, breaking the record of GOT which had 1.9 crore people watching the show together in 2019. 

  • Stay Vigil And Beware Of The Monsters Around You As Zee Café Brings ‘Penny Dreadful: City Of Angels’

    Stay Vigil And Beware Of The Monsters Around You As Zee Café Brings ‘Penny Dreadful: City Of Angels’

    Mumbai: You have seen her manipulative and cunning side as Margaery Tyrell in Game Of Thrones, now watch her raise hell, quite literally, in ‘Penny Dreadful: City Of Angels.’ Natalie Dormer returns, this time deadlier than ever before as fierce demoness Magda in this magnetic and chilling tale that will set your TV screens ablaze. Premiering on Friday, July 10, 2020 weeknights at 10 as part of Zee Café’s weeknights block ‘Mystery Café’, the show, a spin-off to Penny Dreadful, is a gripping exploration of darkness and light. Created by the three-time Academy Award-nominee for ‘Gladiator’, ‘The Aviator’ and ‘Hugo’ – John Logan, the horror historical drama features a stellar cast comprising the ‘Don’t Breathe’ and ‘It Follows’ actor Daniel Zovatto, the ‘Halt’ and ‘Catch Fire’ fame Kerry Bishé and the actor known for ‘The Imitation Game’ Rory Kinnear among others.

    After back-to-back thrilling series like ‘Nancy Drew’ and ‘Evil’ on Mystery Café, here’s another drama that is sure bring you the chills! Set against the backdrop of 1930s Los Angeles amid the Golden Age Of Hollywood, Penny Dreadful: City Of Angels revolves around the Vega family and the deep-rooted horrors that form the cornerstone of a city brimming with deeply infused with Mexican-American folklore and social tension. The dark fantasy opens with a grisly murder that traumatizes the city and pulls Detective Tiago Vega (Daniel Zovatto) and his partner Lewis Michener (Nathan Lane) into the death-defying case. Before long, Tiago and his family are grappling with powerful forces that threaten to tear them apart. While on one side we have the Mexican folklore saint – Santa Muerte (Lorenza Izzo), a guide to the great beyond, the other sees her spiritual sister, the demoness Magda, who believes mankind is inherently evil and committed to let the world burn! All it takes for Magda is soft whispers to bring the City of Angels to destruction.

    Amid radical policing, the looming threat of war, and Nazi conspiracies that threaten to derail the Vegas, what follows is a classic good vs evil encounter. Only this time, will good triumph all evil? 

  • Hotstar decodes the online video consumer, unveils India Watch Report 2019

    Hotstar decodes the online video consumer, unveils India Watch Report 2019

    MUMBAI: Technology changes swiftly. However, sometimes, the market receptiveness for these changes is even faster. Take for instance some of the revelatory insights thrown by the latest ‘India Watch’ report by Hotstar. Consider the fact that Technology changes swiftly. However, sometimes, the market receptiveness for these changes is even faster. Take for instance some of the revelatory insights thrown by the latest ‘India Watch’ report by Hotstar. Consider the fact that Lucknow, Pune and Patna consume more video data than Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Kolkata., Pune and Patna consume more video data than Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Kolkata. Or the fact that OTT is no longer a men’s club, as much as 45 per cent of total entertainment consumption at Hotstarcomes from women.

    Similarly, Bihar and Bengal, two of India’s most poor states in per capita income, are leading the country when it comes to per capita data consumption and are much ahead of more industrialised and urban states like Maharashtra and Delhi. And, Kanpur and Kochi are ahead of Mumbai and Bengaluru when it comes to binge watching during late hours. The India Watch 2019 by Hotstarreport busts many such assumptions about the OTT market in India.

    “Video entertainment ecosystems have rarely evolved fasterthan what we are witnessing in India. With affordable
    smartphones and abundant access to data, the small screen isbecoming the preferred medium of entertainment for newconsumers. Thefuture is exciting – for consumers, for marketers, and forcontent platforms,” The Walt Disney Company APAC Chairman, Star & Disney India, Uday Shankar said in a foreword to the report. 

    The report also chronicles Hotstar’s amazing journey to becoming India’s largest premium streaming platform by viewership.Launched in 2015, Hotstar, with 400 Mn+ downloads, is already one of the most downloaded apps in India, registering 2X installs and 3X growth in consumption this year as compared to 2018. This growth catalyses from Hotstar's endeavors in taking digital video consumption to new frontiers, where non-metros are outstripping metros in terms of video consumption and regional content has grown to account for 40 per cent of overall content consumption.

    The big Cricketgamble.

    In September 2017, Star India (Hotstar’s erstwhile parent company) trumped Facebook, Reliance Jio, Sony and Bharti Airtel, and won broadcast rights for IPL for whopping Rs 16,347.50 crore for the next five years. That bet has largely paid off.

    How sports streaming in general, and IPL in particular, have helped Hotstar in achieving subscriber growth not even imagined by other OTT platforms, is clear by live streaming viewership growth on Hotstar.

    During IPL 2017, Hotstar recorded 4.5 million concurrent viewers. For IPL 2018, this number was 10.3 million. In 2019, Hotstar recorded 18.6 million concurrent viewers during IPL and 25.3 million concurrent viewers during ICC 2019 Cricket World Cup.

    Live streaming sporting events like IPL has not only helped Hotstargrow its subscriber base, but such events also provide better advertising options on the platform. Brands like Swiggy and Coca Cola ran integrated ad campaigns on Cricketing and IPL themes during this IPL season and the report talks in detail about how these brands were able to leverage IPL popularity for their brand marketing. 

    Talking about advertising oppurtunities during live events, Shankar said: “Sharp customer insights and deeper customerengagement, when powered by enhanced technologicalcapabilities, will open new possibilities for marketers, whocan now run targeted marketing campaigns at scale duringlive events.”

    During VIVO IPL 2019, 64 million viewers also participated in Watch ‘N Play, twice as many as last year.

    The contribution of live streaming sporting events on Hotstar can be gauged from the fact that in 2019, as much as 42 % of all content consumed on Hotstar was sports related while 58 per cent was in the genres of entertainment and news (despite the surge during general elections).

    Outdated gender stereotypes

    any OTT audience measurement reports have underlined how the platform is heavily skewed towards male audience. The Ormax Media report, released last month in November, found that as much as 66 per cent OTT viewers are male. The India Watch report, however, throws interesting figures.

    Not only are female viewers growing, at least on Hotstar, but there is a growing overlap of content choices among males and females on OTT space. In 2019, as much as 45 per cent of Hotstar viewership were women.

    Besides, the report finds that video consumption by women on Hotstar increased by 3.2 X timesin 2019, outpacing the growth in video consumption among men.

    Further, 40 per cent viewers of family drama shows on Hotstar are women. And men are more interested in mythology than women and 41 per cent of Game of Thrones viewers also watched Hindi family dramas.

    Hotstar EVP & Chief Product Officer Varun Narang said, “The accelerated growth of the Indian video entertainment ecosystem has had an unprecedented impact on the consumer. Today, the Indian consumer enjoys a plethora of content to choose from, has moved beyond metro cities, and isn’t limited by gender or language. More importantly, this growing accessibility has opened doors to new thoughts and ideas that are shaping a stereotype-defying consumer.”

    Regional leads the way

    The report finds that more than 40 per cent video consumption came from regional content. Tamil, Telugu and Bengali are the top regional languages. In fact, Bigg Boss Tamil is the highest watched entertainment show having beaten all the Hindi TV Shows.

    New ways to news

    Another genre witnessing huge growth in video consumption is news. 2019, being the general election year. Hotstar recorded 10 times more video consumption in news genres in 2019 compared to last year. Further, 65 per cent of news consumption comes from people in the age group of 15-34.

    The report is an important addition to the existing knowledge gap about OTT audience in India and will certainly provide new insights to marketers and content creators. 
     

  • 71st Emmy Awards Update: Hotstar Premium leads the way with 44 Wins!

    71st Emmy Awards Update: Hotstar Premium leads the way with 44 Wins!

    The recently concluded 71st Emmy Awards recognized excellence in primetime programming and individual achievement for the 2018-2019 television season. And the best performances of year have been spoken for! After leading the race with the maximum nominations, Hotstar Premium continues to be the destination for shows with maximum wins this year – a total of 44 Wins across Creative and Main Awards, way ahead of the rest in India.

    Cult show Game of Thrones took home a total of 12 awards across categories, while Chernobyl was a close second with a total of 10 wins this year. These winners are testament to great stories and even greater storytelling that make these titles and performances memorable and unique. Here’s a round-up of winners from the most coveted categories.

    Outstanding Drama Series: Game of Thrones
    Outstanding Limited Series: Chernobyl
    Lead Actress – Limited Series/Movie – Michelle Williams (Fosse/Verdon)
    Lead Actor – Comedy Series – Bill Hader (Barry)
    Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series – Billy Porter (Pose)
    Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series – Jodie Comer (Killing Eve)
    Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series – Jesse Armstrong (Succession)
    Outstanding Directing for a Limited Series, Movie or Dramatic Special – Johan Renck (Chernobyl)
    Outstanding Writing for a Limited Series, Movie, or Dramatic Special – Craig Mazin (Chernobyl)
    Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series – Last Week Tonight With John Oliver
    Outstanding Variety Talk Series – Last Week Tonight With John Oliver