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Tag: Maddock Films

  • Love goes Prime Time as Param Sundari streams across 200 nations

    Love goes Prime Time as Param Sundari streams across 200 nations

    MUMBAI: Move over long-distance love Param Sundari just went global! Prime Video has rolled out the red carpet for the exclusive worldwide streaming premiere of Param Sundari, a romantic comedy that promises equal parts laughter, love, and cultural chaos.

    Produced by Dinesh Vijan under the Maddock Films banner and directed by Tushar Jalota, the film stars Sidharth Malhotra and Janhvi Kapoor in a charming tale that’s as warm as it is whimsical. Now streaming in India and over 200 countries and territories, the film is the latest addition to Prime Video’s growing bouquet of homegrown blockbusters reaching global screens.

    Set amid the lush backwaters of Kerala, Param Sundari follows the unlikely romance between Param, a cheerful Punjabi boy from Delhi, and Sundari, an independent Malayali woman. What begins as a classic culture clash soon turns into a heartfelt journey of discovery with a generous helping of humour, emotion, and musical magic.

    Director Tushar Jalota calls the film “a celebration of love in its most joyful and unpredictable form.” He adds, “We wanted to create a story that feels alive and heartfelt something that makes you laugh, smile, and believe in love again. With its digital premiere, audiences everywhere can now experience the same warmth that we felt while making it.”

    For Prime Video, Param Sundari is yet another step in its mission to deliver Indian stories with universal appeal. “Our focus has always been on bringing audiences stories high on entertainment, emotion, and heart,” said Prime Video India director and head of content licensing, Manish Menghani. “Param Sundari perfectly embodies these values, it’s fun, warm, and deeply engaging. We’re thrilled to bring it to Prime members around the world.”

    For the leads, the film felt like revisiting the golden era of romance with a modern twist. “Param Sundari takes you back to a time when love was honest, a little messy but full of heart,” said Sidharth Malhotra. “Playing Param reminded me why I fell in love with romantic stories, they make you smile, believe, and reflect on your own journey.”

    Co-star Janhvi Kapoor echoed the sentiment: “Shooting in Kerala was magical. The story celebrates emotion and culture in such a beautiful way that it felt more like an experience than just a film. I think audiences everywhere will connect with that authenticity.”

    With its scenic settings, soulful soundtrack, and feel-good storytelling, Param Sundari is poised to be more than just a weekend watch, it’s a reminder that love, in all its unpredictable glory, still finds a way.

    So whether you’re in Kochi, Kensington, or Kansas, Param Sundari is now streaming proving that when it comes to matters of the heart, distance is just another subplot.

     

  • UMI strikes the right chord with Maddock Films in global music alliance

    UMI strikes the right chord with Maddock Films in global music alliance

    MUMBAI: The movie business just got a new soundtrack partner and this time, it’s playing to a global beat. Universal Music India (UMI), the Indian arm of Universal Music Group, has inked a strategic tie-up with Maddock Films and its new music label, Mad For Mussic, founded by producer-director Dinesh Vijan. The deal will see UMI serve as Maddock’s worldwide strategic partner for future film soundtracks and allied offerings.

    For UMI, it’s more than just a duet, it’s a full-blown re-entry into India’s most dominant music category: film soundtracks. With UMG’s global network as its amplifier, Maddock’s repertoire will now find international stages, while UMI cements its foothold in a market where movies and music are inseparable.

    Maddock Films, which has carved its niche with hits like Stree, Bhediya, Munjya and the upcoming Thama, has long treated music as central to its storytelling. Its chartbuster “Pardesiya” from Param Sundari is a case in point, having ruled social media and streaming platforms alike. “Our cinema is the cinema of real India,” said Vijan. “Music has always been one of its pillars. With UMG, we’re ready to scale that ambition.”

    Universal, of course, is no stranger to Hindi film soundtracks. Its catalogue has spanned classics from Sholay and Deewar to Devdas and Bombay. But this partnership marks a sharp pivot to contemporary hindi film industry, with an eye on both local dominance and global resonance.

    Calling the deal “a crucial step forward,” UMG’s Adam Granite hailed Vijan as “a first-class storyteller with an unparalleled ear for music.” UMI’s India MD Sanujeet Bhujabal called Maddock’s output “fearless, forward-thinking storytelling,” while India SA chairman & CEO Devraj Sanyal noted that the move comes at “the perfect time” for UMI to re-enter the Indian film music market.

    With Maddock’s track record of genre-defining cinema from horror-comedies to mainstream hits and UMI’s global muscle, the stage is set for Hindi soundtracks to travel farther and louder than ever. Call it a match made in musical heaven, with India’s stories and songs primed for a world tour.

  • Prime Video reels in Maddock Films with blockbuster eight-film deal

    Prime Video reels in Maddock Films with blockbuster eight-film deal

    MUMBAI: When it comes to streaming, Prime Video clearly isn’t afraid of commitment. The platform has just inked a multi-year global licensing deal with Maddock Films, securing exclusive streaming rights to eight upcoming films that will drop on Prime shortly after their theatrical run. The pact makes Prime Video the one-stop home for Maddock’s celebrated horror-comedy universe, including the upcoming Thama and two yet-to-be-titled instalments slated to roll out between 2025 and 2027. The deal follows the monster success of Stree 2, which didn’t just scare up big numbers at the box office but also streamed to blockbuster status on Prime, amassing a global fandom well beyond India.

    The eight-film slate packs serious star power. Topping the line-up is Param Sundari, headlined by Sidharth Malhotra and Janhvi Kapoor, premiering in cinemas on 29 August 2025 before making its digital debut on Prime. Franchise fever continues with Shiddat 2 and Badlapur 2, both extending Maddock’s well-loved cinematic worlds. Also in the mix is Ikkis, directed by Sriram Raghavan and starring Agastya Nanda, along with other unannounced titles.

    The partnership is not new Maddock and Prime Video have a track record of shared hits, from theatrical-to-digital blockbusters like Stree, Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, and Stree 2, to the co-produced Bhool Chuk Maaf, and the Prime Original Jee Karda.

    “From our horror-comedy universe to our most beloved franchises, our endeavour has always been to create worlds that audiences love to revisit,” said Maddock Films CEO & founder Dinesh Vijan adding that the deal marks a natural extension of their shared goal to take Indian stories global.

    Prime Video India director and head of content licensing Manish Menghani echoed the sentiment: “This multi-film slate not only builds on Maddock’s popular franchises but also delivers fresh storytelling that travels across geographies.”

    With streaming rights locked across 240 plus countries and territories, Prime Video is betting big on Maddock’s mix of chills, thrills, and sequels ensuring its members can binge the blockbusters long after the popcorn’s gone cold.

  • PVR Inox wins first round in Bhool Chuk Maaf battle: court halts Maddock’s OTT debut

    PVR Inox wins first round in Bhool Chuk Maaf battle: court halts Maddock’s OTT debut

    MUMBAI: The Bombay high court has thrown a wrench into Maddock Films’ plan to skip the cinemas and take Bhool Chuk Maaf straight to Amazon Prime Video. In a dramatic turn, the court issued an interim stay on the film’s OTT release, siding with PVR Inox in a fierce Rs 60 crore legal battle.

    The courtroom clash erupted after Maddock Films, citing “heightened security drills across the nation” amid an India-Pakistan conflict, decided to ditch the planned 9 May theatrical release and launch the Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi starrer directly online on 16 May. But PVR Inox, which had already geared up for the theatrical launch, wasn’t having it.

    PVR Inox’s counsel, Dinyar Madon, told the court that Dinesh Vijan’s Maddock had breached a 6 May contract that locked the film into an eight-week theatrical run before any streaming release. “The producers pulled the plug on the deal just a day before the release,” he argued. The multiplex giant demanded Rs 60 crore in damages.

    Maddock’s defence, led by Venkatesh Dhond, tried to wriggle out, claiming the eight-week clause only mattered if the film actually released in cinemas. But justice Arif Doctor wasn’t convinced. He pointed out that PVR Inox had already reserved screens, promoted the film, and sold tickets. Cancelling at the last minute, he said, would damage the multiplex chain’s reputation and goodwill.

    The showdown is far from over. Maddock Films must now file a response before the next hearing on 16 June.
     
    In the meantime, Bhool Chuk Maaf is stuck in limbo — a family entertainer without a family to watch it.

  • Film marketer sets up own production house

    Film marketer sets up own production house

    MUMBAI: Khyati Madaan, a  film marketing professional with over a decade of experience at some of India’s most prestigious entertainment companies, has announced the official launch of  her own production house, Not Out Entertainment on Linkedin.

    The IIM and NIFT alumna brings  industry pedigree to her new venture, having previously served as head of marketing at Maddock Films and held marketing positions at Red Chillies Entertainment, Kolkata Knight Riders and Disney.

    At Red Chillies, Ms Madaan was part of the team behind innovative digital campaigns for Zero, starring Shah Rukh Khan. The film became the first Bollywood production to utilise Amazon’s Alexa, develop a Snapchat filter and create a WhatsApp sticker pack as part of its promotional strategy.

    Before her tenure at major film houses, Madaan worked at Everymedia Technologies, where she rose to become vice president of marketing and director of analytics. During her time there, the company won awards for digital marketing campaigns, including recognition for the blockbuster Heropanti.

    Madaan’s career path has been diverse, including earlier roles at Trent Ltd, JJ Valaya, and Landmark group in Dubai, where she worked as head of retail and as an assistant buyer respectively.

    With Not Out Entertainment, Madaan aims to transition from marketing films to producing them. Her cricket-inspired company name suggests she believes there are many more innings to come in her professional journey—or as the famous Bollywood tagline goes, picture abhi baaki hai.

  • A.R. Rahman lits the stage on fire at Chhaava album launch

    A.R. Rahman lits the stage on fire at Chhaava album launch

    MUMBAI: The night was electric, the beats were thunderous, and the legend himself, A.R. Rahman, took center stage for a grand musical celebration. The much-anticipated Chhaava album launch turned into an unforgettable spectacle, blending history, emotion, and melody. Produced by Dinesh Vijan under Maddock Films and directed by Laxman Utekar, the historical epic Chhaava is set to hit cinemas worldwide on 14 February 2025.

    With an ensemble cast featuring Vicky Kaushal and Rashmika Mandanna, the event was graced by Utekar, Vijan, and the entire creative team behind the film. But the real showstopper? Rahman’s signature blend of soulful melodies and powerful arrangements that took the audience on a sonic journey through time and Maratha pride.

    The launch was nothing short of a musical blitzkrieg. Each song from the Chhaava album was brought to life with Rahman’s spellbinding performance, amplified by a dynamic dance troupe that infused the stage with unrelenting energy. The atmosphere was charged, the audience enthralled, and the beats—sharp as a warrior’s sword—pierced through the air, keeping everyone hooked. The event also featured a candid conversation between the cast and Rahman, offering a deeper glimpse into the soul of the Chhaava album.

    Rahman shared his excitement, stating, “Some movies aren’t just stories—they are the roar of a beating heart. Chhaava is one of them. I thoroughly enjoyed composing the score, BGM, and songs with the incredible team of Laxman Utekar, Dinesh Vijan, Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna, and my amazing music team. To all the fans, I hope you enjoy this music as much as we enjoyed creating it. And I can’t wait for you to experience our performance! Chhaava releases on February 14 in cinemas near you.”

    Kaushal, overwhelmed by the experience, said, “It’s truly an honor to be part of Chhaava, especially with the legendary A.R. Rahman sir composing the music. This film marks my first collaboration with him, and watching him perform these beautiful tracks live has been an unforgettable experience I will cherish for the rest of my life. Now that the album is launched, I’m incredibly excited for audiences to experience these songs, which are so powerful, and I hope they resonate with each one of you.”

    Mandanna added, “Vicky and I are in awe of the honor it has been to collaborate with the unparalleled A.R. Rahman sir on Chhaava. Every song in this album carries a piece of history—stories of love, sacrifice, and duty—woven together so beautifully. Watching Rahman sir bring the emotional depth of the film into the music has been a surreal experience and truly one of the most defining moments of my career. Being part of such a monumental film is a privilege I’ll forever cherish.”

    Lyricist Irshad Kamil, who intricately crafted the words for Chhaava, reflected on his artistic pursuit, stating, “Writing the lyrics for Chhaava was an artistic pursuit. Every word had to do justice to the warrior’s journey, capturing the essence of sacrifice, valor, and honor. My intent was to honor the relentless spirit of the Marathas—celebrating their courage and unwavering commitment. These songs were crafted with the same precision as a sword strike, not merely telling a story but conveying the immortal bravery of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Working on this album was not just a task, but a duty that I was honored to fulfill.”

    With Rahman’s music as the soul of the film, Chhaava promises to be a storytelling marvel. Kaushal embodies Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj with unmatched intensity, while Akshaye Khanna steps into the formidable role of Aurangzeb, setting the stage for an epic historical clash. Mandanna adds grace and strength as Maharani Yesubai Bhonsale, the queen of Swarajya, showcasing resilience and elegance.

    Presented by Sony Music Entertainment India, the Chhaava soundtrack is set to captivate audiences far and wide, much like the warrior’s tale it brings to life.

  • A47.in joins forces with Maddock Films for official ‘Chhaava’ merchandise

    A47.in joins forces with Maddock Films for official ‘Chhaava’ merchandise

    MUMBAI: Get ready to wear history like never before! The go-to destination for Indian pop culture and heritage-inspired merch, A47.in has teamed up with Maddock Films to launch an exclusive merchandise collection for the much-anticipated film Chhaava. Fans of history, cinema, and bold fashion can grab these must-have collectibles starting 7 February 2025, only on A47.in.

    Designed with A47’s signature craftsmanship, the Chhaava collection features sweatshirts, t-shirts, and hoodies adorned with striking designs inspired by the film’s epic narrative. Whether you’re a history buff, a Maratha warrior at heart, or just looking for a statement piece, this collection blends heritage with modern style. With prices starting at Rs 699, fans can now own a wearable tribute to one of India’s greatest warrior kings.

    Speaking about the collaboration, A47 founder & CEO Bhavik Vora said, “At A47, we love telling India’s iconic stories through high-quality, stylish merchandise. Collaborating with Maddock Films for Chhaava is an exciting way to bring history to everyday fashion. We’ve ensured every fan finds something to cherish, making Chhaava’s fearless spirit a part of their wardrobe.”

    A cinematic spectacle in the making, Chhaava is one of the year’s most awaited films, featuring Vicky Kaushal in a commanding lead role, alongside Rashmika Mandanna and Akshaye Khanna. The film brings to life the inspiring saga of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the fearless son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Backed by Maddock Films, known for delivering blockbuster hits, Chhaava promises a riveting mix of breathtaking visuals, stellar performances, and an emotionally charged narrative—a must-watch for history buffs and cinema lovers alike.

  • Maddock Films snares Sonia Huria in brand, consumer & social communications role

    Maddock Films snares Sonia Huria in brand, consumer & social communications role

    MUMBAI: For long she’s been on the other side and she’s endeared herself to all who she has been associated with. Now the very familiar and affable face in the entertainment industry, Sonia Huria,  has hopped onto Dinesh Vijan’s Maddock Films as head brand, consumer and social communications.

    Maddock Films had a fabulous 2024 with three films raking it in at the box office: Teri Baaton mein Uljha Jiya (Rs 133 crore), Munjya (Rs 132 crore) and the biggest of them all – Stree 2 (Rs 900 crore). It has lined up a slate of films which will figure in the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe , two of which are to be released in 2025: Thama (Diwali) and Shakti Shalini (31 December).

    So it definitely needs all the professional help it can to build up the brands. And Sonia has oodles of it (22 years) with her last position being that of head of communications , Asia Pacific for four years at Prime Video and Amazon MGM studios(October 2020-January 2025), where she handled the launch campaigns of over  100 shows and films in India, Japan and Singapore.

    Prior to that, she was senior vice-president at Viacom18 Media where over nearly 13 years  (April 2008-Octo 2020) she spearheaded the launch of its Hindi general entertainment channel Colors which quickly claimed the No 1 spot, beating back long-standing number one’s in the space. Additionally, she also worked on social impact initiatives with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Finally, two of the initiatives – the #OpenNewWorlds brand promise and the #OneTogether campaign – she championed helped build stability in the organisation.

    Before the two corporate assignments, she was employed with agencies like Weber Shandwick in Mumbai then Genesis Burson Marstellar first in Singapore and then in India for around six years.

    “After an enriching journey in television and streaming, I’m thrilled to embark on this new chapter with a studio that consistently sets benchmarks and redefines success in both theatrical and streaming entertainment,” posted Sonia on Instagram. “Maddock Films has always been known for its ability to craft stories that resonate deeply with audiences. In my new role, I’m eager to bring together the storytelling touch points across social, PR, and consumer communication to create immersive and engaging experiences for viewers. By connecting these threads seamlessly, we can build a dynamic and interconnected audience journey, amplifying the magic of our narratives and ensuring they captivate and delight at every interaction. With an incredible lineup of projects ahead, I look forward to collaborating with Maddock’s visionary creators and talented team to take our stories beyond screens and into the hearts of audiences everywhere.

     

  • Big Cine Expo 2024 to redefine cinema exhibition at NESCO

    Big Cine Expo 2024 to redefine cinema exhibition at NESCO

    Mumbai: The seventh edition of the Big Cine Expo will take place at the Bombay Exhibition Centre (NESCO), India, from 30 September to 1 October 2024.

    As per the release, it is the world’s second-largest and Asia’s largest international convention and trade show for cinema exhibitors and theatrical distributors, and is expected to be even bigger and more innovative.

    The inauguration will feature industry figures like Maddock Films’ founder Dinesh Vijan, filmmaker Subhash Ghai, and PVR-INOX co-CEO Alok Tandon. A highlight of the expo will be filmmaker Atlee screening exclusive footage of his debut production ‘Baby John’ starring Varun Dhawan on day one.

    Big Cine Expo remains Asia’s largest B2B platform for the multiplex and single-screen sectors. The two-day event will provide local and international stakeholders with opportunities to connect and showcase technologies, products, and services aimed at enhancing the cinema and entertainment sectors. Key partners for Big Cine Expo 2024 include Galalite, IMAX, Qube Cinema, Christie, and Warner Bros. Discovery & Universal. Attendees can expect a packed schedule of product displays, demos, studio presentations, seminars, panel discussions, awards, special screenings, launches, exclusive B2B meetings, and networking opportunities.

    The IMAX Big Cine Awards 2024 will honor leaders and innovators in the cinema exhibition industry, recognizing achievements across various categories. These awards aim to celebrate excellence and creativity in the industry. With a focus on growth and innovation, the expo is expected to attract cinema operators, designers, distributors, studios, equipment manufacturers, project management professionals, and industry decision-makers from around the world.

    “This exceptional event, the second-largest of its kind worldwide, is a gathering of the brightest minds in cinema exhibition,” said Big Cine Expo director Raghav. “Our goal is to offer an exclusive and premier platform for exchanging innovative ideas and industry-leading solutions that will drive the future of cinema.”

    “To be in touch with technology and exhibition, which is the most important aspect for all of us who are making films: there’s so much attention to detail and a tenacious desire to push forward, and I believe the exhibition fraternity is doing just that. I feel greatly humbled to be a part of the show,” said Padma Shri film director, producer, and screenwriter Mani Ratnam.  

    “Domestic as well as international entities unite together, socialise, and share their thoughts. I am really looking forward to attend the event and witness some great work and some innovative concepts. Such initiatives are constructive for entrepreneurs in the cinema industry and ancillary businesses,” said Subhash Ghai.

    “Big Cine Expo has yet again brought the cinema exhibition industry together with its 7th edition of Big Cine Expo. This event has always provided a great platform for networking and collaboration among the key players in our industry. Big Cine Expo has been a symbol of strength and innovation. At PVR INOX, we are proud to be part of this journey and celebrate the progress we’ve made together. Congratulations to the team for organizing another excellent event and for their dedication to the growth and success of our industry,” said PVR INOX Ltd MD Ajay Bijli.

    India has long been a global leader in cinema consumption, and as the market for cinematic experiences grows, Big Cine Expo finds a fitting home in this dynamic country. Mumbai, the center of Indian cinema, has played a key role in shaping the industry, reflecting both its history and innovative approach. As a cultural and creative hub, the city provides the ideal setting for Big Cine Expo 2024, bringing together key industry figures to shape the future of cinema and entertainment in India and globally.

  • Sector 36’s electrifying album drops ahead of its release

    Sector 36’s electrifying album drops ahead of its release

    Mumbai: As the release of the crime thriller Sector 36, starring Vikrant Massey and Deepak Dobriyal, approaches, excitement builds with the launch of its album. Featuring a mix of devotion, emotion, and contemporary sound, each track reflects the film’s intense narrative. Directed by Aditya Nimbalkar and produced by Jio Studios and Maddock Films, the film has already generated buzz with its track ‘Dumroo.’ The four-track album features a range of musicians who capture the film’s energy and essence, immersing listeners in a world of crime and suspense.

    The first track, Dumroo, sung by Mohit Chauhan and Anupam Amod and composed by Dhunkey, released earlier this week and received a strong response for its thunderous beats and devotional chants. Following it, Saaya, composed, produced, and sung by Kanishk Seth with lyrics by Yashwardhan Goswami, captures the film’s tension. Maan Kafira, sung by Amit Mishra, composed by Gourav Dasgupta with lyrics by Farhan Memon, reflects inner conflict with a blend of rebellious and soulful tones. The final track, Ruan, sung by Kamakshi Khanna with additional vocals by Savera, composed by OAFF and Savera with lyrics by Sameer Rahat, explores themes of despair, fear, and inner turmoil.

    “Creating ‘Saaya’ was a deeply fulfilling experience. This song speaks to that part of us we often ignore – the shadows we carry within. Composing this song gave me the space to explore a sound that feels meditative yet modern, reflecting the inner search for meaning. This song is close to my heart as it reflects intense feelings, suspense and passion that I hope resonates with every listener,” added Kanishk Seth while talking about ‘Saaya’.

    Delving into the depth of their track ‘Ruan’, OAFF and Savera expressed, “With ‘Ruan’, we wanted to capture the quiet strength that comes with vulnerability. Kamakshi’s voice brought that to life in a way that was both tender and powerful. Sameer Rahat’s evocative lyrics really brought out the atmosphere of the film and we hope the track speaks to the heart.”

    The album is a collection of songs that will take you on an emotional and spiritual journey, pulsating with energy, devotion, and human depth. Prepare to be captivated by the rhythms and emotions of Sector 36, where every beat tells a story and every note heightens the suspense. The film is available exclusively on Netflix starting 13 September 2024.