Tag: GlobalCinema

“Bun Tikki” to premiere at Palm Springs 2025, celebrating family & resilience

Mumbai: Jio Studios and Manish Malhotra’s Stage5 Production proudly announced the world premiere of “Bun Tikki” at the prestigious 36th Palm Springs International Film Festival (PSIFF) on 5 January 2025. Directed by debutant feature filmmaker Faraz Arif Ansari, the poignant coming-of-age drama stars Shabana Azmi, Zeenat Aman, Abhay Deol, Nushrratt Bharuccha, and Rohaan Singh.

Set against the backdrop of societal challenges, “Bun Tikki” explores the tender relationship between seven-year-old Shanu and his single father, Sidhant. The narrative beautifully captures their journey through self-discovery, grief, and resilience. This emotional tale of love and identity promises to resonate with audiences globally, bringing universal themes of parenthood and empathy to the forefront.

Speaking about the premiere, Ansari shared, “It’s an absolute dream to have “Bun Tikki” debut at Palm Springs. This film is my love letter to the world—to every child, every parent, and everyone who believes in the transformative power of love, empathy, and kindness. I hope it sparks conversations that break barriers and bridge differences. My heartfelt thanks to Jio Studios and Manish Malhotra for believing in me and giving this story the platform it deserves.”

Produced by Jyoti Deshpande, Dinesh Malhotra, Marijke deSouza, and Manish Malhotra, “Bun Tikki” marks the second international outing for the Jio Studios-Stage5 Production collaboration, following the success of Saali Mohabbat at IFFI 2024. Reflecting their commitment to creating impactful cinema, the partnership continues to push boundaries with authentic storytelling that resonates across borders.

Stage5 Production founder, Manish Malhotra expressed his pride: “Seeing “Bun Tikki” premiere at Palm Springs is a truly special moment. This film challenges conventions and connects on a universal scale. I am incredibly proud of Faraz for bringing this vision to life and eagerly anticipate the world’s response to this heartfelt story.”

Reliance Industries president of media and entertainment, Jyoti Deshpande added, “ “Bun Tikki” is a testament to the power of storytelling to foster empathy and understanding. Supporting this film reflects our commitment to amplifying diverse voices and sharing narratives that challenge and inspire.”

The film stars legendary actors Shabana Azmi and Zeenat Aman, alongside Abhay Deol, Nushrratt Bharuccha, and Rohaan Singh. Ansari, known for their award-winning films Sisak and Sheer Qorma, brings their distinctive voice to this feature directorial debut. “Bun Tikki” continues their legacy of inclusive storytelling, offering a heartfelt portrayal of familial love and resilience.

November 27, 2024
IFFI 2024: A cinematic extravaganza celebrating art, culture, and innovation

Mumbai: The International Film Festival of India (IFFI) has long been a beacon of cinematic excellence, and its 55th edition promises to be no exception. Scheduled from 20-28 November 2024 in the vibrant state of Goa, IFFI 2024 is poised to be a celebration of art, culture, and innovation, attracting cinema enthusiasts from around the globe. From a dazzling opening ceremony to a thrilling array of performances, premieres, and cultural events, this year’s festival sets a new standard for cinematic grandeur.

IFFIESTA, an electrifying celebration of art, music, and culture, will take centre stage at the Kala Academy, Panaji. This interactive experience will blend cinema with live performances, showcasing India’s unparalleled cultural diversity. Regional and traditional troupes from across the nation will light up the festival with their vibrant displays. The highlight, a grand parade themed “Celebrating the Joy of Cinema”, will feature local float designers and parade groups presenting breathtaking creativity.

IFFIESTA will also host an entertainment lineup featuring iconic artists such as Asees Kaur, Paradox, When Chai Met Toast, and The Yellow Diary, alongside emerging talents like Anumita Nadesan and DJ The Spindoctor. With food, music, and art in abundance, IFFIESTA will immerse attendees in the magic of Indian culture.

The festival will begin with a glittering opening ceremony on 20 November 2024 at Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium, Goa. The Australian film “Better Man”, directed by Michael Gracy, will set the tone as the opening film, celebrating the life of British pop icon Robbie Williams.

Cinematic legends and film personalities, including Subhash Ghai, Bhumi Pednekar, and Randeep Hooda, will grace the red carpet alongside chief minister Pramod Sawant and union minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. Attendees will witness awe-inspiring cultural performances, a nostalgic Bollywood dance medley, and a poetic tribute to cinematic icons such as Raj Kapoor and Mohammed Rafi.

IFFI 2024 will focus on nurturing young filmmaking talent through the ‘Creative Minds of Tomorrow’ initiative, which has expanded to support 100 young filmmakers. A newly instituted Best Indian Debut Director Award will honour emerging creators with a Silver Peacock and a cash prize of Rs 10 lakh.

Masterclasses led by renowned personalities, including A.R. Rahman, Shabana Azmi, and international guests such as Philip Noyce, will offer invaluable insights to aspiring filmmakers.

This year’s festival will feature 180 international films from 81 countries, with 16 world premieres and 43 Asian premieres. The International Competition section includes 15 feature films vying for the coveted Golden Peacock and a Rs 40 lakh cash prize.

Australia, the Country of Focus, will showcase its cinematic brilliance through a dedicated film package. Philip Noyce, the acclaimed Australian director, will receive the Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award.

IFFI 2024 will be its most inclusive edition yet, featuring live Indian sign language interpretation and accessibility features at all venues. Eco-friendly practices will be implemented throughout the festival, emphasising sustainability.

With over 270 films, 25 masterclasses, and immersive cultural events, IFFI 2024 promises a week-long celebration of creativity, storytelling, and innovation. The festival will conclude on 28th November with an awards ceremony recognising cinematic excellence.

Save the dates and join the magic as IFFI 2024 redefines the essence of cinema.

November 20, 2024
Jio Studios unveils new logo, celebrating Indian heritage and global reach

Mumbai: This Diwali, Jio Studios, the entertainment arm of Reliance Industries Ltd., unveiled a striking new animated logo alongside the release of “Singham Again”. This moving logo encapsulates Jio Studios commitment to culturally rich storytelling that resonates both in India and worldwide.

Jio Studios, since its inception in 2018, has established itself as a powerhouse in India’s entertainment industry, producing over 100 films and series celebrating India’s cultural diversity. The studio’s 2024 releases, including the record-breaking “Stree 2” and the critically acclaimed “Article 370” and “Shaitaan”, have dominated both domestic and international markets, achieving a 100 per cent success rate. With “Laapata Ladies” representing India at the Oscars, Jio Studios continues to set industry benchmarks.

The animated logo begins with a spark that unfolds into a mandala, a symbol of universal connection, incorporating Indian languages and musical notes. The logo culminates in a golden lotus symbolising purity and resilience, an emblem of Indian creativity. Featuring rich black and gold tones, the logo is set to a sitar-accompanied tune layered with classic Indian instruments, capturing Jio Studios’ essence of grandeur, heritage, and cinematic vision.

Reliance Industries, president of media and content business, Jyoti Deshpande remarked, “2024 has been an incredible year for Jio Studios in which we enjoyed back-to-back box office successes and critical acclaim alike with Stree 2 and Lost Ladies (Laapataa Ladies). A moving logo is an emotion, it is the embodiment of our brand and our values while it captures our vision, and I am particularly happy with the way our logo celebrates our Indianness and wears it on its sleeve. Our new moving logo not only honours our rich heritage but also symbolises our ambition to keep pushing boundaries with scale and innovation. Purity of Ideas and storytelling form the soul of Jio Studios, and this logo reflects our resilient journey beyond languages and genres, to bring unforgettable, uniquely Indian narratives to audiences all over the world.”

With its new logo, Jio Studios signals a bold step into the global stage, inviting audiences worldwide to celebrate and share in its legacy and innovative future.

November 6, 2024