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Tag: Gautam Dutta

  • Cinemas script a blockbuster September with wonders on and off screen

    Cinemas script a blockbuster September with wonders on and off screen

    MUMBAI: Lights, camera, September! The festive week has given Indian cinemas their long-awaited full house feeling, with audiences flocking back for blockbusters across languages and genres. From Bollywood action to Malayalam family dramas, Tamil thrillers and Hollywood horrors, the country’s multiplexes have been buzzing with energy.

    At PVR Inox, the numbers tell a story of revival. Hindi action spectacle Bhaagi 4 opened with 45 per cent occupancy, Malayalam release Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra topped charts at 74 per cent, and Onam special Hridayapoorvaam struck a chord with families. Tamil entry Madharasi began strong with 45 per cent, while Hollywood’s The Conjuring: The Last Rites lured genre fans with 47 per cent occupancy.

    “With this mix of Bollywood blockbusters, regional successes and international titles, September is shaping up to be one of the most exciting months for cinema lovers,” said PVR Inox Ltd CEO for revenue & operations Gautam Dutta.

    Riding this momentum, the multiplex giant is rolling out its Weekend of Wonders, a six-film line-up that promises something for every taste.

    ●    Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale, a poignant farewell to the Crawley family saga, set in the 1930s.

    ●    The Heer Express, a Punjabi drama of resilience, belonging and hope, as a young woman starts anew in the UK.

    ●    Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Infinity Castle, the anime blockbuster making its IMAX debut in India.

    ●    The Long Walk, Stephen King’s dystopian survival thriller directed by Francis Lawrence.

    ●    Ek Chatur Naar, a sharp comedy-thriller with Divya Khosla and Neil Nitin Mukesh, full of twists.

    ●    Mirai, a Telugu fantasy epic starring Teja Sajja as a “Super Yodha”, blending mythology with futuristic battles.

    With IMAX, 4DX, and Screenx formats across India, PVR Inox is betting big on immersive experiences to match the scale of storytelling.

    Six films, six worlds, and one cinematic carnival, September isn’t just about the festive season anymore, it’s about the big screen roaring back to life.

  • Blockbuster Tuesdays steal the show as India flocks to Rs 99 cinema frenzy nationwide

    Blockbuster Tuesdays steal the show as India flocks to Rs 99 cinema frenzy nationwide

    MUMBAI: Tuesday just got a turbocharged rebrand. Across India, theatres are no longer half-empty mid-week refuges for retirees or bored interns. Thanks to Cinema Day Tuesdays and Blockbuster Tuesdays—a nationwide Rs 99 ticket initiative—cinemas are now bursting at the seams, packing in popcorn-chomping fans like it’s opening night every week.

    With over 4000 screens participating, including giants like PVR Inox, Miraj Cinemas, Cinépolis India and Mukta A2 Cinemas, the scheme has sent admissions through the roof. Footfalls in many regions are now rivalling—and in some cases beating—weekend crowds.

    That’s right.

    Tuesday is the new Sunday.

    “Blockbuster Tuesdays is a result of a lot of hard work and collaboration among our industry partners… Cinemas are an indispensable part of our culture,” said Multiplex Association of India (MAI) president Kamal Gianchandani, adding that it’s more than just cheap tickets—it’s a love letter to shared storytelling.

    Miraj Cinemas is reporting footfalls equal to its Sunday crowds across metros and tier two cities. Miraj Entertainment Ltd MD Amit Sharma said, “Tuesdays are turning into a celebration for movie lovers. It’s not just about pricing—it’s about reigniting the emotional connect with cinema.”

    This Tuesday (22 April) alone offers a spicy mix of cinema fare. Kesari Chapter 2 with Akshay Kumar and R. Madhavan, thriller flick Sinners starring Michael B. Jordan, and Paddington in Peru for families promise to cater to every mood. Not to mention Jaat, still smashing box office charts in its second week.

    At PVR Inox, the movement is doing more than just selling tickets. “The surge in F&B spends and overall engagement reflects that people aren’t just coming for the movie—they’re coming for the full theatrical experience,” said PVR Inox CEO – revenue & operations Gautam Dutta. “It’s not a trend. It’s a cultural revival.”

    For Cinépolis India, it’s about trust, habit, and nostalgia. MD Devang Sampat remarked, “When a student spends Rs 99 and walks out smiling, it becomes more than a transaction; it is an emotional reconnection.”

    Still, not all is sunshine and samosas.

    Rahul Puri of Mukta Arts highlighted the structural issues around distribution and pricing. “The Rs 99 revolution is positive but also proves value has to be in sync with expectations—and that isn’t just about ticket prices.”

    So, as theatres gear up for another adrenaline-charged Tuesday, one thing is clear: the big screen isn’t going anywhere. And this time, it’s got the audience to prove it.

  • PVR Inox brings IPL cricket to the big screen across 30+ cities

    PVR Inox brings IPL cricket to the big screen across 30+ cities

    MUMBAI: PVR Inox Ltd, India’s largest cinema exhibitor, is set to send cricket fans into a frenzy by screening Tata Indian Premier League (IPL) matches live in theatres across the country. In a  partnership with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the cinema chain will transform its plush screens into virtual stadiums for the 2025 season.

    Starting today with the opening ceremony, cricket-mad fans can catch weekend matches and playoffs on the big screen, complete with stadium-worthy sound systems and comfy seats—a far cry from the plastic chairs and overpriced lager at actual grounds.

    The opening weekend promises a cracking lineup:
    * 22 March:  Kolkata Knight Riders vs Royal Challengers Bangalore
    * 23 March: Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Rajasthan Royals, followed by the mouth-watering Chennai Super Kings vs Mumbai Indians rivalry

    “We are excited to bring together India’s two greatest passions—cinema and cricket—through IPL screenings, offering an unparalleled viewing experience in a larger-than-life environment,” said PVR Inox chief executive for revenue and operations Gautam Dutta..“During the last cricket match screenings, we witnessed an overwhelming response from our audiences, with an influx of footfalls to our screenings across cities, affirming the immense popularity and success of this initiative. We are committed to providing a premium experience that takes sports entertainment to the next level this year as well

    The cinema chain appears keen to cash in on India’s cricket fever, offering premium experiences that might make watching at home seem positively dull by comparison. Gourmet food combos and surround sound for every six and wicket? Howzat for a Saturday night out.

    The screenings will blanket the country, hitting not just the usual suspects like Mumbai and Delhi, but also stretching to smaller cities where big-screen entertainment options are typically thinner on the ground than hair on a spinner’s head.

    Fans in Maharashtra can catch matches in Mumbai, Pune and even Latur, while those in Gujarat have options in Ahmedabad, Vadodara and Anand, among others. The eastern cricket faithful aren’t left on a sticky wicket either, with screenings in Kolkata, Guwahati, Odisha and Jharkhand.

    The initiative extends to Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab and across southern India, including Hyderabad, Bangalore and Kochi.

    This crafty move by PVR Inox not only fills cinema seats during what might otherwise be quiet weekend afternoons but also provides cricket enthusiasts with a novel way to soak up the IPL atmosphere without battling stadium crowds or straining their eyes on tiny mobile screens.

    For those who prefer their cricket with air conditioning and the option of a decent meal, the boundary lines have just been redrawn.

  • PVR Inox-Star Sports to screen Manchester United Vs Manchester City in theatres

    PVR Inox-Star Sports to screen Manchester United Vs Manchester City in theatres

    MUMBAI: The mother of all football battles is here. Manchester City vs Manchester United. The Premier League. Come 15 December 9:30 pm,  the much awaited football fiesta is sure to set the screens alight what with the supreme Rodrigo swaying and weaving past the Manchester United mid-fielders and defence and belting one hard past the open mouthed goalie Altay Bayindir and scoring. Football fans can also watch the hard fought game on select cinema screens of PVR Inox theatres in  Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Kochi, Bengaluru, Pune, and other cities.  

    PVR Inox is bringing the action on the turf in collaboration with Star Sports. Bookings for this electrifying match are open now and can be made through PVR Inox’s newly launched WhatsApp Chatbot, Movie Jockey. Fans can enjoy an unforgettable experience with state-of-the-art sound, superior visuals, and the buzz of a live crowd cheering for their teams.

    This screening is part of the Star Sports Select Screenings initiative, following the success of previous events such as the Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. 

    Says PVR Inox CEO revenue & operations Gautam Dutta:  “We’re thrilled to bring the excitement of the Manchester derby to the big screen. This is more than just a match; it’s a clash of two football giants, and we can’t wait for fans to experience it in a fully immersive environment.”

     

    (The Picture is of an earlier clash between Manchester United and Manchester City)

  • Star Sports & PVR Inox launch select screenings of Premiere League

    Star Sports & PVR Inox launch select screenings of Premiere League

    Mumbai: Pvr Inox has partnered with Star Sports to bring live Premier League matches to theaters in major cities across India. For the first time, football fans can watch teams like Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Tottenham on the big screen. Screenings will begin in Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, Kochi, Pune, and other cities, offering an exciting experience for fans.

    This collaboration introduces Star Sports select screenings, providing a new way to enjoy live sports in a larger-than-life setting. Following the success of the Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 screenings, the Premier League will be the first offering. Fans can immerse themselves in the action, making this a must-attend event for football enthusiasts.

    “Our collaboration with Star Sports aims to give Premier League fans an unmatched viewing experience. Watching these high-octane matches in theatres takes fan engagement to a new level, creating a community atmosphere where supporters can come together,” said Pvr Inox CEO – revenue & operations Gautam Dutta.

    “We at Star Sports are thrilled to bring the excitement of the Premier League to cinema screens across India. Star Sports ‘Select Screenings PL’ allow fans to experience live matches in an immersive environment, surrounded by fellow supporters. It’s not just about watching football; it’s about creating a community where passionate fans can come together to celebrate the game. We look forward to delivering an unforgettable experience that captures the thrill of every goal, every tackle, and every moment of drama,” said Star Sports Network marketing head Vikram Passi.

    The screenings kick off with the much-anticipated Chelsea vs. Arsenal match on 10 November 2024.

  • Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai win Despicable Me 4 early access voting frenzy!

    Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai win Despicable Me 4 early access voting frenzy!

    Mumbai: Minion mayhem is about to erupt across India, but moviegoers in Chennai, Bangalore, and Mumbai are in for a special treat! These three cities have emerged victorious in a thrilling online voting battle for the PVR INOX Early Access Show of the highly anticipated animated film, Despicable Me 4. With a staggering 25,000 fans participating Chennai, Bangalore, and Mumbai secured the highest number of votes, granting them the exclusive privilege of an early screening on 30 June 2024. The winning cities were determined through an intense online voting process conducted on the PVR and INOX apps and websites. This innovative approach by PVR INOX reflects the high level of enthusiasm and participation among Despicable Me fans across India.

    Starting today, June 26, movie lovers in Chennai, Bangalore, and Mumbai can secure tickets for this special Early Access Show. Don’t miss this chance to be among the first in India to witness the return of Gru, his loyal Minions, and the whole Despicable Me crew! To commemorate this victory and heighten the excitement, PVR INOX is offering additional perks for moviegoers in the winning cities. Every ticket holder for the Early Access Show in Chennai, Bangalore, and Mumbai will receive a complimentary popcorn tub, adding a delightful touch to their movie experience. Additionally, a select group of lucky attendees will be randomly chosen to win exclusive Despicable Me 4 merchandise, taking home a cherished memento of this special event.

    PVR INOX Ltd CEO – revenue & operations Gautam Dutta expressed his excitement about the Early Access Show and the voting process: “With the Early Access Show, we’re putting the power back in the hands of our audience. This isn’t just a movie screening; it’s a celebration of the magic of cinema and the immense love for the Despicable Me franchise! The voting battle was a thrilling experience, and around 25,000 fans participated, one of the highest participation for any film contest so far. We’re ecstatic to bring the Early Access Show to Chennai, Bangalore, and Mumbai on June 30.”

    PVR INOX’s Early Access Show breaks new ground, empowering audiences and shaking up the traditional movie experience. Through real-time polling on the PVR and INOX apps and websites, fans actively influenced which cities received early screenings for select films. This innovative approach not only caters directly to movie lovers’ desires by giving them a say in the release schedule but also generates significant pre-release buzz and excitement for the film itself.

    The Despicable Me franchise stands as a titan in the animation industry. It holds the prestigious title of the highest-grossing animated film franchise of all time, solidifying its place among the top 15 highest-grossing film franchises overall and one of the highest-grossing media franchises ever. The secret to its success lies in its unique blend of heartwarming moments, side-splitting humour, and a cast of unforgettable characters, including the ever-popular Minions, that have captivated audiences worldwide.

    Despicable Me 4 serves as the highly anticipated sequel to Despicable Me 3 (2017), marking the fourth instalment in the main series and the sixth film overall. Fans can expect the return of the delightful mix of mischief and mayhem that has become synonymous with the franchise and some exciting new surprises.

    After narrowly escaping incarceration, the villainous Maxime Le Mal and his accomplice, Valentina, seek revenge on Gru and his family, including his newborn son, Gru Jr. This looming threat forces Gru to relocate his family for their safety. In their new neighbourhood, they encounter the Prescotts and their daughter, Poppy. Gru and his mischievous Minions form an unexpected alliance with Poppy to counter the formidable duo of Maxime and Valentina. With a dynamic plot, beloved characters, and the ever-entertaining Minions, Despicable Me 4 promises to be a hilarious and heartwarming addition to the Despicable Me saga.

  • PVR INOX announces Summer Film Festival: Fun-filled movie-cation with films for all ages

    PVR INOX announces Summer Film Festival: Fun-filled movie-cation with films for all ages

    Mumbai: PVR INOX, India’s largest and most premium cinema chain, is thrilled to announce a Summer Film Festival running from the last week of April through June 2nd, 2024. This much-anticipated festival, available only at PVR INOX cinemas across 26 cities and 69 cinemas, is the ultimate way to kick off the summer season. With over 16 live-action and animation films, families and friends can look forward to a diverse and entertaining line-up, making it the perfect escape from the heat and boredom and a great opportunity to relive them on the big screen.

    PVR INOX Ltd.  CEO-revenue & operations Gautam Dutta explains the significance of this festival, stating, “We at PVR INOX are dedicated to creating unique experiences tailor-made to our audience needs. Our Summer Film Festival aims to offer an immersive, joyful environment where families and kids can relax and have fun in a perfect cinema setting. We have curated an incredible selection of films loved by all, activities for kids at our playhouses and kiddles, with kids’ meals, merchandise giveaways and more! Our goal is to make this festival a memorable experience for all.”

    The Summer Film Festival presents an exciting mix of films in partnership with Universal Studios, Warner Bros., and Disney, ensuring a blend of modern classic favourites and the latest hits. From timeless animations like Finding Nemo, Coco, and The Little Mermaid to recent blockbusters like Super Mario Bros. and Kung Fu Panda, the festival promises to captivate audiences of all ages. This carefully curated line-up guarantees that there’s a film for every taste, whether you’re a fan of whimsical adventures, high-octane action, or heart-warming stories.

    The Summer Film Festival by PVR INOX delivers more than just blockbuster movies; it’s a comprehensive entertainment experience designed to captivate audiences before and after the films. In addition to screening the latest hits, the festival offers a variety of interactive activities, from drawing and colouring sheets to puzzles and word games, ensuring there’s fun for everyone. Kids can meet popular mascots from their favourite movie characters featured in these films for selfies and high-fives, adding an extra dose of excitement. The festival also features special merchandise giveaways, allowing attendees to take home a unique piece of the experience. This thoughtful approach to family-friendly entertainment is what sets PVR INOX apart, creating a warm and welcoming environment where everyone can have a great time. The festival is as dynamic and colourful as the cinema it celebrates, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all.

    The Summer Film Festival is set to take place in 26 cities, from Mumbai and Delhi-NCR to Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, and beyond, offering a widespread reach across India. This broad network of cinemas ensures that audiences across the country can take part in the fun and excitement. Don’t miss out on the summer’s most exciting movie cation, where entertainment and family fun come together. For more information, including show times and ticketing details, visit the apps or websites of PVR or INOX or the aggregator apps.

  • PVR INOX to screen Isha Mahashivaratri live in Cinemas

    PVR INOX to screen Isha Mahashivaratri live in Cinemas

    Mumbai: PVR INOX, India’s premier multiplex chain, is thrilled to announce its collaboration with Isha to bring the 30th year of Mahashivratri celebrations to the big screen, for the very first time. The overnight mega event will be broadcasted on 8 March from 6 pm onwards till the permissible cinema operating hours, LIVE from the Isha Yoga Center, Coimbatore. The live screening will be done on more than 50 screens across 35 cities in India. Viewers will not only have the privilege of witnessing this sacred event in the company of fellow devotees, but will also receive a specially energized Rudraksha by spiritual leader Sadhguru.

    The Mahashivratri celebration at the Isha Yoga Center is a spectacle to behold, featuring explosive meditation sessions, enlightening discourses by Sadhguru, mesmerizing musical and dance performances from renowned artists such as Shankar Mahadevan, Gurdas Maan, Brodha V, and Paradox will grace the event, alongside other classical singers and dancers. Isha’s homegrown band, “Sounds of Isha,” will also perform alongside various other artists from all across India.

    Mahashivratri is one of the largest and most significant among the sacred festivals of India. The festival celebrates the Grace of Shiva, who is considered the Adi Guru or the First Guru from whom the Yogic tradition originates.

    “The significance of the day is that there is an upward movement of energy in the human body. So this night, we want to spend awake, aware, with our spines erect so that whatever Sadhana we are doing, there is a great assistance from nature,” explained Isha Foundation founder Sadhguru, about the importance of staying awake all night on Mahashivrartri.

    PVR INOX Ltd co-CEO Gautam Dutta, expressing his profound enthusiasm, stating, “The divine festival of Mahashivratri holds unparalleled significance in Indian traditions, offering boundless possibilities for seekers of spiritual divinity. Collaborating with Isha to bring this event to the silver screen for the first time at PVR INOX cinemas for the devotees is an extremely gratifying and blessed opportunity for us. We extend a heartfelt invitation to all devotees to join us at their nearest PVR INOX cinemas and bask in the spiritual magic and make the most of this extremely auspicious festival.”

    Patrons eager to partake in this divine experience can book their tickets via the PVR or INOX apps or websites by clicking on https://cutt.ly/AwMToEau

  • PVR INOX presents the Oscar Film Festival 2024

    PVR INOX presents the Oscar Film Festival 2024

    Mumbai: Gear up for the glitz, glamour, and excitement as PVR INOX is set to raise the curtains for its 2024 edition of Oscar Film Festival, featuring a dazzling lineup of highly acclaimed Oscar-nominated films. As anticipation builds for the prestigious 96th Academy Awards, movie-buffs across the nation will get a golden opportunity to experience the magic of cinema through this exclusive Oscar Film Festival, with showcasing in close to 100 cinemas in 33 cities of India.

    Scheduled to run from 23 February till 21 March 2024, the festival promises a month-long celebration for movie connoisseurs to experience the best of Oscar-nominated films on the silver screen. The films that would be screened as part of the multi-city film festival include Oppenheimer with 13 Oscar nominations, Killers of the Flower Moon with 10 Oscar nominations, Anatomy of a Fall & The Holdovers with five Oscar nominations each, Napoleon with three Oscar nominations, Past Lives & The Creator with three Oscar nominations and The Teacher’s Lounge with one Oscar nomination. From riveting historical narratives to poignant introspective tales, and from chilling mysteries to epic grandeur, each of these films represents the best of filmmaking. With gripping dramas and heart-warming narratives, there’s something for every movie-buff to enjoy.

    PVR INOX co-CEO Gautam Dutta said, “At PVR INOX, we strive to bring the best of world cinema to Indian audiences. With the Oscar Film Festival 2024, we aim to celebrate the artistry and excellence of cinema while providing our patrons with an unforgettable cinematic experience. We are delighted to have the movie enthusiasts to join us for this ultimate cinematic celebration and immerse themselves in the magic of the Oscars.”

    Spanning close to 100 cinemas across 33 cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Baroda, Goa, Indore, Guwahati, Kolkata, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Trivandrum, and Coimbatore, the festival will offer audiences a truly immersive cinematic experience with top quality content. For more information, including show times and ticketing details, visit the apps or websites of PVR or INOX or the aggregator apps.

  • PVR INOX announces Valentine’s film festival featuring cinematic love stories

    PVR INOX announces Valentine’s film festival featuring cinematic love stories

    Mumbai: PVR INOX Ltd, India’s leading multiplex chain, is set to kick off Valentine’s celebrations with a cinematic treat for movie enthusiasts through the launch of its Valentine’s Film Festival. A celebration of love through the lens of blockbuster romantic films, the festival boasts a stellar line-up featuring timeless classics such as Titanic, Jab We Met, Pyaar Ka Punchnama, Mohabbatein, Veer Zaara, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, Sita Raman, and 19 other captivating movies in languages including Malayalam, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada. Scheduled to take place from 9 to 15 February 2024, the Valentine’s Festival will captivate audiences in 194 cinemas across Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, Goa, Bengaluru, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Kochi, Lucknow, Jaipur, Indore, and 62 other cities in India.

    The ticket pricing for this cinematic extravaganza will start from Rs. 112/- onwards, making it accessible to a wide range of movie enthusiasts. Patrons can conveniently book their tickets through the PVR INOX app or website and through aggregator apps.

    PVR INOX Ltd co-CEO Gautam Dutta expressed his excitement about the Valentine’s film festival, stating, “The Valentine’s Film Festival is not just about movies; it’s about creating unforgettable moments of love and joy. At PVR INOX, our pursuit has always been to transform every cinematic experience into a cherished memory for our patrons. With this festival, we have meticulously curated a diverse selection of romantic masterpieces, ensuring there’s something extraordinary for every movie enthusiast. This festival is not just an ode to the magic of cinema; it’s a heartfelt invitation to celebrate the essence of Valentine’s Day with your loved ones.”

    PVR INOX has consistently set industry standards by introducing innovative content experiences to enhance the movie-watching journey. The re-release of these romantic blockbuster films aims to make audiences relish the cinematic masterpieces all over again and celebrate Valentine’s Week with their loved ones.