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Tag: Harry Potter

  • Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru adds 16 new brands in six months of growth

    Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru adds 16 new brands in six months of growth

    MUMBAI: Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru, the city’s premier lifestyle and shopping destination, has strengthened its retail portfolio with 16 brand launches in just six months, marking an impressive phase of growth and curation. The latest to join its expanding lineup is The Souled Store, one of India’s most popular homegrown D2C apparel and lifestyle brands.

    With its quirky, pop-culture-inspired aesthetic and officially licensed merchandise from Marvel, Disney, DC, Harry Potter, and Friends, The Souled Store brings an immersive, experience-led space to Bhartiya Mall’s fashion floor: one designed for millennial and Gen Z shoppers who crave creativity, comfort, and self-expression.

    “Our retail mix is carefully curated to reflect the preferences of our catchment,” said Bhartiya Urban senior vice-president Ramaraju KN. “With a large base of millennials and Gen Zs, we’re focused on bringing in dynamic, experience-driven brands that resonate with their lifestyle and aspirations.”

    The Souled Store joins a vibrant lineup of recent entrants including Shobitam, Peachmode, Biglilpeople, Indyvarna, Hush Puppies, Frangipani (featuring Chumbak, Imara, Voylla, and Abhishti), and Zoul & Zera. Earlier this year, the mall expanded into the home category with HomesToLife, offering premium furniture and design-led living solutions from Domicil, Fabbrica, and Corian.

    Bhartiya Mall has also diversified its dining and lifestyle offerings, welcoming Frank’s Hot Dog, Liquid Story, and Lily Bloom’s, alongside five new kiosks including Cookie Man, Taara, Quem, The Man Company, and 3m Car Care.

    Strategically located within the Bhartiya City township near Hebbal, the 7.5-lakh-square feat mall has emerged as a go-to lifestyle hub for North Bengaluru, catering to Gen Z, millennials, families, and working professionals alike. With an expanding catchment averaging 3,000 new homes and 3,000–5,000 office seats added each month, the mall is ideally positioned to meet the evolving needs of the city’s fast-growing population.

  • Warner Bros Discovery to launch Max in seven new markets

    Warner Bros Discovery to launch Max in seven new markets

    Singapore – Warner Bros. Discovery (Nasdaq: WBD) announced that its streaming service Max will launch on 19 November in Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand, as well as Taiwan and Hong Kong. Max will be a brand new streaming experience in the region bringing fans blockbuster movies, series, iconic hits, engaging real-life content and family favorites through a strong product experience.

    Max brings together the highest quality entertainment from beloved brands like HBO, Harry Potter, the DC Universe, Cartoon Network, Max Originals, and the best of Hollywood movies, as well as can’t-miss programming from Discovery, TLC, AFN, Food Network, ID* and HGTV all in one place.

    From 19 November, subscribers can enjoy an elevated streaming experience on multiple devices with an easy to navigate interface including personalised recommendations, seamless search, genre rails and brand hubs. Providing a more intuitive way of exploring Max, subscribers can create up to five unique profiles, each customisable with favorite characters as avatars, receive content picks based on viewing habits and customise profiles for kids, curated with age-appropriate content and parental controls.

    Warner Bros. Discovery CEO and president of global streaming & games, JB Perrette said: “We are thrilled to bring Max to more consumers in Asia. Max brings together unparalleled quality content from iconic brands like HBO, Discovery, the DC Universe, Harry Potter, AFN, and Cartoon Network, as well as Hollywood blockbusters all in one place. Building on successful launches in the U.S., Latin America and Europe, Asia Pacific represents the next phase of Max’s globalization, making Max available now in over 72 markets with more to come in 2025.”

    Warner Bros. Discovery, APAC, president, James Gibbons said: “Warner Bros. Discovery has long entertained fans across Asia Pacific with culture-defining content from powerhouse brands. For the first time, this programming will be available in a brand new streaming app for regional audiences, with Max combining incredible breadth and depth and a best in class viewing experience.”

    Content offering

    Max will offer a collection of fan favorite content from theatrical hits, culture-defining shows, best in class real-life stories across food, home, lifestyle and documentaries, as well as family favorites.

    . As the exclusive streaming home for HBO Originals, Max will feature a slate of exclusive stories including new series Dune: Prophecy, the Game of Thrones prequel, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, IT: Welcome to Derry, the upcoming Harry Potter series, and new seasons of House of the Dragon, The White Lotus and The Last of Us. Subscribers will also have access to award-winning series, True Detective, Game of Thrones and Succession, as well as Max Original adult animation Creature Commandos, the first series out of the new DC Universe under James Gunn and Peter Safran.

    . Max will feature the best of Hollywood movies, including the full Harry Potter movie collection, Dune: Part Two, Barbie, Aquaman and The Lost Kingdom, Wonka, Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning, Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire and the upcoming premiere of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.  

    . Fans of Warner Bros. Discovery’s beloved collections will be entertained by Friends, the DC Universe, The Conjuring Universe, The Matrix and Sex and the City.

    . For the first time, real-life stories from Warner Bros. Discovery’s renowned unscripted programming from Discovery, TLC, AFN, Food Network, ID* and HGTV will be available in one streaming destination. Individual brand hubs on Max will feature worldwide hits including Deadliest Catch, Ghost Adventures, Property Brothers, Gold Rush, Dr. Pimple Popper and Selena + Restaurant.

    . Max will be home to kids’ brands Cartoon Network and CARTOONITO offering a wide selection of content for kids and families from Adventure Time, We Bare Bears and Tom and Jerry, to Looney Tunes and Teen Titans Go!.

    Plans

    Max will offer a choice of different plans. Full details about pricing will be announced in the coming weeks and will vary by country and provider.

    Mobile

    . Watch only on mobile phone and tablet

    . 15 downloads to watch on the go

    . Stream on one mobile device at one

    . Standard HD video resolution

    The Mobile plan is available in Indonesia, Philippines, and via select providers in Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines and Thailand.**

    Standard

    Stream on two devices at once

    Full HD video resolution

    Watch on more devices, including TVs

    30 downloads to watch on the go

    Ultimate

    . Stream on four devices at once

    . 4K UHD and Dolby Atmos as available

    . Watch on more devices, including TVs

    . 100 downloads to watch on the go (limits apply)

    Max will launch in Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan and Hong Kong on 19 November. The Max app will be available for subscription through Max.com, and through select partners – additional details will be announced in the coming weeks.

  • 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.

  • JioCinema announces major kids entertainment foray

    JioCinema announces major kids entertainment foray

    Mumbai: This Children’s Day, JioCinema, India’s ultimate destination for entertainment, announced its foray into Kids entertainment with a dedicated ‘Kids and Family’ offering. With a stellar content offering spanning over 3000 hours of some of the best known franchises from across the world and biggest Indian IPs, the platform will cater to young audiences across Tiny Tots, Kids, Pre-teens and will also house content for the entire family to enjoy together.

    Creating India’s single largest destination for Kids’ entertainment with over 100 top Toon franchises, 300+ Series and Movies spanning DIY, comedy, adventure, and action genres, JioCinema promises fun, thrill and nostalgia, to every child across the country, with popular content available in 5+ Indian languages.

    From Anime to superheroes, to mythos, spanning local and global favourites, JioCinema brings the largest offering of kids’ network content from Viacom18 including Motu Patlu, Shiva, Rudra, Chikoo aur Bunty, Pinaki and the Bhoot Bandhus, The Twisted Timelines of Sammy & Raj, Kanha – Morpankh Samrat, among others. Raising the bar with premium global series such as Harry Potter, Transformers, HBO Storybook musical, The Looney Tunes Show, Super Mario Bros, Justice League War World, Garfield, Tin Tin, Trollstopia, Zig & Shark, Peppa Pig, Pokémon, and movies like Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, Madagascar, Teen Titans Go, Polar Express, Lego Ninjago, The Flintstones, Boss Baby, and a lot more, JioCinema promises to entertain kids and those young at heart with thousands of hours of magical content. Through strategic partnerships with leading local and global studios including Cartoon Network Studios, Dreamworks, EOne, The Pokémon Company & Animaccord, among others, the offering will add fresh content every week.

    Further exemplifying its commitment to providing a safe and wholesome family entertainment experience, JioCinema is including a ‘Kids and Family’ profile in every account, granting children access to only age- appropriate content. Recognizing the significance of screen time among children, the ‘Kids and Family’ profile is combined with a unique ‘PIN’ based ‘Parental Control’ mechanism. With advanced algorithms and cutting-edge technology, the profile will allow parents to customize the content access based on their child’s life stage, giving them complete control.

    On creating a wholesome entertainment ecosystem for kids and their families, a JioCinema spokesperson said, “At JioCinema, we are deeply committed to building a one-stop destination for all things entertainment. We are invested in understanding Indian audiences and their preferences and continue to evolve as the preferred source for all their entertainment needs. Our newly added Kids and Family category will unlock access to millions of families across India and enrich family consumption. With the best content from India and around the world, available in multiple languages, we aim to be inclusive and an enabler of wider consumption with fewer barriers’’.

    Headlining the rollout of the kids and family slate is the enthralling Pokemania festival, marking an exciting chapter for fans of the beloved Japanese Pokémon franchise. As the exclusive home to over 1000 episodes and 21 movies, JioCinema will be celebrating the fervor surrounding the enchanting poke-monsters with a brand-new season unveiled every Thursday, starting on 16 November, with Season 12.

  • 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.”

  • Cartoon Network to air Harry Potter film series

    Cartoon Network to air Harry Potter film series

    Mumbai: For the very first time, the “Harry Potter” film series will be airing on kids’ entertainment channel Cartoon Network. The first four films in the series will premiere every weekend of November 2021 and the following four will premiere in January 2022 every Sunday at 8 p.m, said the channel in a statement.

    Titles airing in November include “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” (13 November), “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” (14 November), “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban” (21 November), and “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire” (28 November).

    The line-up for January 2022 includes “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix” (2 January), “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” (9 January), “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1” (16 January), “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2” (23 January).

    “We are thrilled to extend the festive celebrations by bringing one of the world’s most beloved and magical tales to Cartoon Network in India,” said South Asia Network Head for Cartoon Network and companion channel Pogo Abhishek Dutta. “Harry Potter and his journey is one of enchantment and wonder and the movie series will be a treat for all our young fans and their families.”

  • Bob Chapek realigns roles at Disney Studios Content

    Bob Chapek realigns roles at Disney Studios Content

    MUMBAI: The shuffling is continuing at the Walt Disney Co as CEO Bob Chapek works on creating an organisation that can prosper going forward. In Disney’s latest announcement, Chapek named Alan Bergman as chairman of Disney Studios Content, with Alan Horn who was earlier co-chairman serving as its chief creative officer from 1 January 2021.

    “Our studios are unmatched in their ability to create incredible cinematic experiences, and with this new structure, we are ensuring a vital continuity of leadership,” said Chapek.

    Bergman’s responsibilities will expand to oversee creative, production, marketing, and operations for Disney Studios Content, which encompasses the world-renowned production studios Disney, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar Animation Studios, Marvel Studios, Lucasfilm, 20th Century Studios, Searchlight Pictures, and Blue Sky Studios, as well as Disney Theatrical Productions. Horn, on the other hand, will focus on the creative aspects of the studios’ content pipeline, working in partnership with Bergman on its creative approach. Both will report to Chapek.

    The leads of each production studio will continue to dual report to Bergman and Horn on creative matters, including Twentieth Century Studios president Steve Asbell; Blue Sky Studios co-president Robert Baird; Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture Production president Sean Bailey; Pixar Animation Studios chief creative officer Pete Docter; Marvel Studios and Marvel president and chief creative officer Kevin Feige; Searchlight Pictures chairman Stephen Gilula; Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy; Walt Disney Animation Studios chief creative officer  Jennifer Lee;  Searchlight Pictures chairman Nancy Utley and and Disney Theatrical Productions president  Thomas Schumacher.

    Bergman is a 24-year veteran of Disney. Prior to being named co-chairman in 2019, he served as president of The Walt Disney Studios from 2005 to 2019. He played a leading role in the integrations of Pixar Animation Studios, Marvel Studios, Lucasfilm, and the Twenty-First Century Fox film studios. His tenure at Studios has included the release of 25 films that have earned at least $1 billion at the global box office.

    Horn joined Disney in 2012 when he was named chairman of The Walt Disney Studios, becoming co-chairman and chief creative officer in 2019. With a career spanning nearly 50 years, Horn is one of the industry’s most influential and respected executives. He served as president and chief operating officer of Warner Bros. from 1999 to 2011, during which it was the top-performing studio at the global box office seven times and released numerous critically acclaimed films and box office hits including the Harry Potter series, Batman Begins, The Dark Knight, The Departed, Million Dollar Baby, and the Ocean’s Eleven trilogy. He co-founded Castle Rock Entertainment, where as chairman from 1987 to 1999 he oversaw a diverse collection of popular, acclaimed film and TV properties including A Few Good Men, The Shawshank Redemption, When Harry Met Sally, and Seinfeld. He also served as president and chief operating officer of Twentieth Century Fox Film Corp from 1985 to 1986 after getting his start in the media business in 1973 at Norman Lear and Jerry Perenchio’s Embassy Communications, where he ultimately held the role of chairman & chief executive officer.

    Together, Horn and Bergman have presided over a time of significant growth at The Walt Disney Studios, including the 2012 integration of Lucasfilm and the 2019 integration of the Fox film studios, as well as the studios’ expansion into the production of content for Disney’s streaming services. During their tenure, The Walt Disney Studios set numerous records at the box office, surpassing $7 billion globally in 2016 and 2018 and $11 billion in 2019, the only studio ever to have reached these thresholds.

    Among the Studios’ recent successes are Disney’s live-action Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, and The Lion King; Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Frozen, Zootopia, and Frozen 2;  Pixar’s Coco, Incredibles 2,  and Toy Story 4; Lucasfilm’s  Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, Star Wars: The Last Jedi, and Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker; and Marvel Studios’ Black Panther, Captain Marvel, Avengers: Infinity War, and Avengers: Endgame, the latter of which is the highest grossing global release of all time.

  • How to tackle lockdown woes the Schbang way

    How to tackle lockdown woes the Schbang way

    NEW DELHI: It can’t be said enough that the ongoing COVID2019 crisis has impacted the business of creative and media agencies severely. From mainline to digital, every business is facing serious problems in functioning. However, creativity has seen no dearth in its virtue during the crisis. 

    Mumbai-based integrated solutions agency Schbang has been one of the top performers during the term, helping its clients with out-of-the-box creative solutions, helping them stay relevant during this time of dip in sales. 

    They have got people growing their hair for BBlunt #GrowOutChallenge, promoting Tinder’s free passport services, and also shot a virtual commercial for Pillsbury Atta that will go live soon. The whole video has been shot virtually and directed via Hangouts, Whatsapp video, Skype etc. 

    Schbang founder-MD Harshil Karia shares, “8 actors from across the country are a part of this video. While the actors are chosen basis their acting capabilities, we are also keeping in mind their respective kitchen aesthetics too as this is being shot from home in their own kitchens.”

    But how has the team managed to create so much of good work despite the many restrictions that the lockdown has come with? The credit can be given to a detailed work-from-home policy that Schbang created for its teams, which consists of not just work but also play. 

    According to Karia, the agency was quick in adapting to the work-from-home situation. “We started acting even before the lockdown was announced and sent to our employees’ homes their computer systems in advance. We also charted out rules, and also introduced several interesting activities and challenges to keep the team engaged.”

    He also shared the detailed WFH Guidelines with us. The document mentions three general tips: maintaining disciplined work hours, reiterating those working hours to clients if needed, and take scheduled breaks. 

    Schbang has also guided its team leads to minimising the number of places they contact with members and sticking primarily to emails for coordination. They are also scheduling daily meetings to brainstorm and has limited the number of participants in those, keeping in mind people spend time on only important things. 

    They have also created a model for sharing feedbacks. 

    This has helped the agency in streamlining its processes better and work effectively in set timelines. 

    Apart from this, the teams across Mumbai and Bengaluru have created several WhatsApp groups to come together for certain activities such as cooking, working out (sessions in the morning and/or evening), photography, trivia/quiz, a jamming team called Schband and some indulgence into groups playing Ludo too online.  

    Karia shares, “These groups are buzzing daily keeping the energy and momentum going. The cooking group called Schefs of Schbang seems to be a bigger hit and we soon will be launching an Instagram page dedicated to that.”

    They also have two tracks for workouts, one for the morning and one for the evening. Karia noted, “The teams come together online and workout or mediate together using some subscriptions we have from Mindhouse and cure.fit. Or just motivate each other to get out there and stay fit.”

    Additionally, a live thematic quiz experience is undertaken every Sunday on various topics like Harry Potter, Friends, The world of Disney & Marvel, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, The Office, among others. 

    Karia concluded, “While work has not been easy and everyone's had their fair share of highs and lows in terms of energy, these team activities are helping people to stay motivated, connected, and happy. Being in a creative space, people interaction, and feeding off each other's energies is what we enjoy the most. So keeping that going even virtually is a step in the right direction for the team.”  
     

  • Turner to license Warner consumer products in India, Bangladesh, Pakistan & Sri Lanka

    Turner to license Warner consumer products in India, Bangladesh, Pakistan & Sri Lanka

    MUMBAI: Turner Broadcasting System Asia Pacific’s Cartoon Network Enterprises (CNE) will now be the consumer products licensing representative for Warner Bros. Consumer Products (WBCP) in India, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, with the licensing agent for Bangladesh being Enroute International Limited.

     

    WBCP’s portfolio in these markets will be represented by CNE, consisting of films, television series, animated programs, and more. This includes iconic brands such as DC Comics Super Heroes Batman, Superman and The Flash, as well as Looney Tunes, Tom & Jerry, Scooby-Doo, Harry Potter and The Hobbit trilogy amongst others.

     

    “Turner has always been our close partner as we support their broadcasting and marketing of animation programs in the region. This extension of our relationship will now include representation of our consumer products licensing business in the region, which is a strategic collaboration that will be mutually beneficial,” said Warner Bros. Consumer Products Greater China, Southeast Asia and India managing director Bianca Lee.

     

    The wide spectrum of WBCP’s licensing categories includes apparel, accessories, publishing, stationery, toys, gifts, novelties, as well as branded foods, personal care products and licensed advertising promotions as key categories in the region.

     

    Turner Asia Pacific president Ricky Ow said, “This association embodies the spirit of collaboration within Time Warner and leverages our combined organisation’s strengths. We already operate some of the most loved leading brands in South Asia and this collaboration will benefit from our proven success and the future investments we will make in the region. We are delighted to add WBCP to our portfolio and are very bullish on its growth opportunities.”

     

    CNE’s licensing portfolio in South Asia comprises 76 partners across India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka across traditional retail, modern trade and e-commerce platforms.

  • Eddie Redmayne cast in Warner Bros’ wizarding world adventure

    Eddie Redmayne cast in Warner Bros’ wizarding world adventure

    MUMBAI: Academy Award-winning actor Eddie Redmayne has been cast as Newt Scamander in Warner Bros. Pictures’ wizarding world adventure Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.

     

    Redmayne will play J.K. Rowling’s creation Newt Scamander, the Wizarding World’s preeminent magizoologist, who in his travels has encountered and documented a myriad of magical creatures, ultimately leading to his penning the Hogwarts School textbook Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.

     

    Warner Bros. Pictures president of creative development and worldwide production Greg Silverman said, “Eddie Redmayne has emerged as one of today’s most extraordinarily talented and acclaimed actors. We are thrilled to welcome him into J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World, where we know he will deliver a remarkable performance as Newt Scamander, the central character in Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.”

     

    Making her screenwriting debut on the film, Rowling has developed the character of Scamander and his primer – taken from her Harry Potter series – to further explore the unique wizarding world she has crafted in print and bring it to life on screen.

     

    David Yates, who directed the last four Harry Potter films, will direct Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.

     

    “Eddie is a fearless actor, brimming with invention, wit and humanity. I couldn’t be more excited about the prospect of working with him as we start this new adventure in J.K. Rowling’s wonderful world, and I know she feels the same way,” said Yates.

     

    The film is being produced by David Heyman, producer of all eight Harry Potter features; Rowling; Steve Kloves, who scripted all but one of the Harry Potter films; and Lionel Wigram, who served as an executive producer on the last four installments of the franchise.

     

    Redmayne won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in the 2014 biopic The Theory of Everything. His stunning portrayal of Stephen Hawking in that film also brought him Screen Actors Guild, BAFTA and Golden Globe Awards.

     

    Warner Bros. Pictures will release Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them in 3D and Imax on 18 November, 2016.