Tag: Netflix

Boddess Beauty and “Kho Gaye Hum Kahan”: A collab redefining the fusion of beauty and entertainment

Mumbai: Boddess Beauty, India’s leading multi-brand retailer proudly announces its partnership as the official brand partner for the much-awaited Netflix film “Kho Gaye Hum Kahan” by Excel Entertainment & Tiger Baby starring Ananya Panday, Siddhant Chaturvedi and Adarsh Gourav. This collaboration sparks a dynamic union between two pioneering forces, meeting the ever-evolving desires of today’s beauty enthusiasts, harmonizing flawlessly with the film’s captivating narrative essence.

The synergy between “Boddess Beauty” and “Kho Gaye Hum Kahan” is evident as the film unfolds the lives of Ahana, Imaad, and Neil—portrayed by Ananya Panday, Siddhant Chaturvedi, and Adarsh Gourav, respectively. Anchored in a world dominated by social media, the narrative explores their journey in maintaining authenticity amidst the pressures of online personas. This resonates strongly with Boddess Beauty’s vibrant community, mirroring the quest for authenticity portrayed in the film. Just like the characters’ pursuit of genuine selves, Boddess Beauty thrives as a hub for those seeking real beauty experiences. It’s a platform that celebrates diverse beauty while championing individual uniqueness in today’s digital landscape.

This collaboration allows Boddess Beauty to showcase its role as the ultimate beauty destination within the film’s narrative, elevating the brand’s significance and relevance. This collaboration is poised to spotlight the cohesive synergy between Boddess Beauty and the cinematic brilliance of “Kho Gaye Hum Kahan.”

Boddess Beauty founder and CEO Ritika Sharma remarked “This association is an exciting venture for us at Boddess Beauty. Our mission at Boddess Beauty is to bring esteemed beauty and wellness brands directly to our consumers. A film release on Netflix gives us an unparalleled opportunity to expand our consumer base, reaching an untapped audience while exploring newer avenues. This collaboration resonates with our ethos of providing an innovative, diverse, and immersive beauty experience to our patrons.”

Adding to its impact Excel Entertainment marketing director Rhea Wagh said, “Ananya’s portrayal in ‘Kho Gaye Hum Kahan’ epitomizes a modern-day narrative that beautifully aligns with Boddess Beauty’s ethos. This partnership is about curating an experience where storytelling meets innovation, resonating powerfully with audiences.”

This partnership amplifies Boddess Beauty’s commitment to delivering quality, diversity, and innovation in the beauty landscape.

December 23, 2023
Santa’s picks: Seven shows to make your holidays merry & bright!

Mumbai: As the winter chill embraces our homes and the scent of joy fills the air, it’s time to cozy up with a cup of hot chocolate and dive right into the festive season. What better way to celebrate than embarking on a marathon of festive shows that promise laughter, love, and a sprinkle of the holiday cheer? From thrillers to amusing comedies, we have curated a list that will capture the essence of Christmas for you. May your days be merry, your binge sessions be jolly, and your heart be light with the magic of the season!

Mistletoe Murders

Platform: Audible

Excited to experience a Christmas that isn’t just about jingle bells and mistletoe but a thrilling escapade filled with mystery, romance, and laughter? This audiobook is the right pick for you. Join Emily Lane, the owner of ‘Under the Mistletoe,’ in a quaint town where her Christmas-themed store becomes the backdrop for not-so-quaint local murders. Tune into this Audible mystery where Emily’s charming exterior conceals a secret past, and Detective-Constable Sam Wilner wonders if there’s more to her than meets the eye. This audiobook promises a holiday-themed thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Christmas Guest

Platform: Audible

Experience the enchanting Cotswolds manor house through the eyes of Ashley Smith, a lonely American studying in London, invited to spend Christmas at the manor. Documented in her diary, Ashley’s idyllic holiday takes a mysterious turn with the Chapman family and the secrets that lurk within the old manor. Is there something strange about the old house? What could the motives of the mysterious Chapman family be? And what holiday horrors might be lying in wait? This audiobook promises a perfect blend of romance, suspense, and holiday magic that will keep you hooked from the first chapter to the last.

Bright Lights, Big Christmas

Platform: Audible

For those yearning to hear a feel-good Christmas story, ‘Bright Lights, Big Christmas’ on Audible offers a delightful mix of country charm and city magic. Follow Kerry Tolliver as she trades the mountains of North Carolina for the bustling streets of New York City during the Christmas season, ready to try to carve out a new corner for herself. With family ties, quirky neighbours, and unexpected romance, Kerry’s adventure is a delightful mix of country charm and urban romance. This audiobook is a perfect choice for those seeking a Christmas story with a touch of humour and romance!

Elf Me

Platform: Amazon Prime

There is no stop to browsing what you can watch this Christmas. Get ready for a laugh-out-loud comedy with ’Elf Me’! In this film, you will meet Trip, an unconventional elf, on a hilarious journey as Santa Claus’ not-so-traditional helper. Teaming up with Elia, a shy and unconventional boy, Trip discovers the true meaning of friendship. It is a heartwarming tale filled with humour, magic, and the spirit of Christmas, which makes for a must-watch this holiday season.

Your Christmas or Mine 2

Platform: Amazon Prime

The holiday hurley-burly continues with Hayley Taylor and Hubert James Hughes in this uproarious Amazon Prime sequel. Join them for another uproarious family Christmas filled with laughter and chaos. This much-anticipated sequel promises to deliver the perfect blend of comedy and heartwarming moments, making it a perfect watch for those looking to continue the festive fun.

Christmas as Usual

Platform: Netflix

In time for the holiday season—a cultural clash wrapped in festive cheer, ‘Christmas as Usual’ on Netflix unfolds the chaos when Indian roots meet Norwegian traditions. In this film, you can join Thea, portrayed by Ida Ursin-Holm, and Jashan, played by stand-up comic Kanan Gill, as they navigate the mayhem that ensues when Indian roots meet Norwegian traditions during Christmas. This romantic comedy, straight from the Nordic region, promises laughs, love, and a celebration of diverse holiday customs.

Family Switch

Platform: Netflix

In this chaotic Christmas comedy, the Walker family experiences a pre-holiday upheaval when a cosmic event swaps parents with their teenage kids. The film is a comedic rollercoaster headlined by Jennifer Garner and Brady Noon, adding a festive twist to the body-swap genre. Jennifer portrays Jess Walker, the meticulous and organized mother who discovers that her way isn’t always the best for everyone. Get ready for laughs and moments of plunging into pandemonium in this Netflix holiday special.

December 23, 2023

SOCIAL’s partnerships with Netflix and Spotify with a vision to bring people together

Mumbai : SOCIAL, India’s neighbourhood café announced its partnerships with global entertainment giants, Netflix and Spotify, with the vision to bring people together over their shared love for music, friendship and communities.The collaborations leverage SOCIAL’s offline presence pan-India to tap into emerging trends and deliver never seen before experiences that blend entertainment, dine in, and tech innovation.

Spotify X SOCIAL: Marrying Music and Mixology

Ahead of Spotify’s moment in the year, it has announced an exclusive partnership with SOCIAL unveiling special #SpotifyWrapped cocktails at select SOCIAL outlets. Guests are invited to bring their gang, showcase their listening personality card on the Spotify app to the server, and receive a custom personality cocktail. As an added bonus, patrons can savour these signature cocktails on the house!

#DisconnectToConnect with Netflix

In partnership with Netflix, SOCIAL Offline is set to launch a campaign centred around the film”Kho Gaye Hum Kahan.” Embracing the theme of “Disconnect to Connect,” this campaign will unfold across 41 outlets in key cities including Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Chandigarh, Bengaluru, and Pune. Patrons can anticipate a fusion of cinematic and culinary experiences as they engage with the #DisconnectToConnect challenge. As part of the challenge, guests who dine in at a SOCIAL outlet need to keep their phones inside a locked box for an hour, in an effort to inspire people to make real life connections with the ones around them. Resilient winners who manage to not use their phones during this time and engage with each other over fun and games, get to win a portion of shareable “Friendship Fries” on the house.

Commenting on the partnerships, Impresario Entertainment and Hospitality Pvt. Ltd chief growth officer Divya Aggarwal said, “Building quality partnerships that focus on synergies and impact are key to the growth of SOCIAL as a brand. The recent initiative with Netflix and Spotify doubled down on our commitment to reinvent and liven the social experience. From the enticing ‘Disconnect to Connect’ campaign with Netflix to the exciting #SpotifyWrapped Cocktails, we’re excited about working with collaborators and brands who want the audience to break free and embrace the extraordinary.”

#SpotifyWrapped outlets will be available at:

City	Outlet
Mumbai	Khar SOCIAL
New Delhi	Civil Lines SOCIAL
	Hauz Khas SOCIAL
	Saket SOCIAL
Bengaluru	Koramangala SOCIAL
Bengaluru	Indiranagar SOCIAL
Kolkata	Park Street SOCIAL

*The free #SpotifyWrapped cocktails will be available until 25 December 2023, and the #SpotifyWrapped menu will be available till 31 December 2023

#DisconnectToConnect will be active in following outlets:

City	Outlet
Mumbai	Carter Road Social
	Colaba Social
	Nesco SOCIAL
	Versova Social
	Goregaon Social
	Chembur Social
	Vashi Social
	Thane Social
	Vikhroli Social
	Capital Social
	Dadar Social
	Malad Social
	Powai Social
	New Cuffe Parade Social
	Nesco Social
	Ghatkopar social
	Khar Social
	Palladium Social
Delhi-NCR	Dwarka Social
	Nehru Place Social
	Cyber Hub Social
	Vasant Kunj Social
	Noida Social
	Aero City Social
	Civil Lines Social

IFC Social Gurgaon

	Sector 85 Social
	Saket Social
	Hauz Khas Social
Bangalore	Whitefield Social
	Churchstreet Social
	Koramangala Social
	Sarjapur Social
	Indiranagar Social
	New Bel Road Social
	Hebbal Social
	Nagavara Social
Pune	Viman Nagar Social
	FC Social
	The Mill Social
	Koregaon Park SOCIAL
Chandigarh	Sector 7 Social
Chandigarh	Elante Social

The #DisconnectToConnect campaign will run from 20 December 2023 to 4 January 2024 excluding 24 December 2023 and 31 December 2023

December 21, 2023

OTT in 2023: A year of moderate success as streaming platforms hit the sweet spot

Mumbai: In the ever-evolving landscape of entertainment, Over-The-Top (OTT) streaming platforms have become the go-to destination for consumers seeking on-demand content. From Disney+Hotstar to Netflix, Amazon Prime, Sony LIV, and JioCinema, it’s evident that streaming services have found the elusive sweet spot, achieving a year of moderate success. This success can be attributed to several factors, including content innovation and evolving user experiences.

According to a report by Ormax Media, they have released select findings of the report, which reveal that the Indian OTT audience universe is currently at 481.1 million (or 48.11 Crore) people. This translated into a penetration of 34 per cent. The report defines an OTT audience who watched at least one online video (free or paid) in the last one month. The report breaks down this universe by gender, age, NCCS, pop strata, states, and cities.

The report also revealed that there are currently 101.8 million active paid (B2C) OTT subscriptions in India, across 36.4 Million SvOD (B2C) audiences, i.e., an average of 2.8 subscriptions per paying audience member. B2C subscriptions in the report refer to subscribers who have taken a membership directly with the OTT platform, in contrast with B2B subscriptions, which are via telecom packs offered by various operators. Mumbai, Delhi and Bengaluru are the top three cities on paid subscriptions, with more than six million active paid subscriptions each.

Regulations

Another highlighting moment of this year was the introduction of the Broadcasting Services (Regulation Bill) 2023. According to the experts, the government’s move to regulate OTT video streaming apps like Netflix, Disney+Hotstar, SonyLiv, etc., under the bill, could affect content innovation and autonomy, derailing the growth path, experts said. Content on OTTs works on a “pull model”, wherein consumers choose the content. As such, any stringent programme and advertising codes might lead to content censorship and affect the audience experience.

Once the Bill becomes an Act, it would bring streaming platforms such as Netflix and Hotstar completely within the ambit of the ministry of information and broadcasting (MIB) without having to rely on the Information Technology Rules, 2021, government officials said.

The policy experts however said that first, the Bill should clearly mention if this would supersede the IT Act and second, the government can only amend certain codes of ethics in the IT Act instead of bringing them under a new legislation.

Sports

Disney+ Hotstar emerged as a powerhouse in 2023, with its decision to offer cricket tournaments — the Asia Cup and the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup — free to its mobile users in India. With this, they have set new benchmarks for viewership, redefining the cricketing landscape. The highly anticipated final clash between team India and Australia has not only etched itself into the chronicles of sporting history but has also become the most-watched event ever on both linear TV and digital streaming. It recorded a peak concurrency of 13 Crore viewers on TV and 5.9 crore peak concurrency on Disney+ Hotstar (Digital).

With the success of both the cricket tournaments, Disney+ Hotstar has also announced this year’s season of Pro Kabaddi League will be available to stream for all the mobile users in India starting 2 December 2023.

Movies and series of 2023

Hindi movies like Pathaan, Jawan, Animal, Vaccine War, Gadar 2 Tiger 3, OMG 2, Adipurush etc garned well at the box office and OTT platforms as well.

There has been a plethora of series from The Railway Men, Kohrra, Trial By Fire, Chamak Scam 2003: The Telgi Story to Taaza Khabar, Farzi, Dahaad, The Night Manager, Citadel etc.

According to a press statement from Jio Cinema stated that the platform registered 245 crore video views and 540 crore votes across the two months that Bigg Boss OTT 2 streamed on the platform. It also claimed to be the highest viewership for a live streamed event in India, after IPL.

Reality OTT shows like Shark Tank India Season 2, MasterChef India Season 7, Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC) Season 15, also fared well at Sony LIV.

December 18, 2023
How has the Indian viewer of long-content evolved?

Mumbai: A decade ago, Indian television was dominated by soap operas and family dramas. The limited choice and often repetitive content left viewers wanting more. This frustration paved the way for the streaming revolution. Platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+ Hotstar, and others entered the Indian market, offering a plethora of options across genres and languages.

The Indian viewers, once bound by rigid TV schedules, suddenly had the freedom to watch what they wanted, when they wanted. This marked the beginning of a seismic shift in the consumption of long-form content. The audience was no longer tethered to the living room; they could watch their favourite shows and movies on their smartphones, tablets, or laptops. One of the most significant changes in the Indian viewer’s preferences has been the diversification of content. While family dramas and sitcoms still hold a special place in our hearts, viewers have grown more inclined towards exploring diverse genres. Crime thrillers, historical dramas, sci-fi series, and international content have found a dedicated fan base. Here are some more evolutions of the long form content consumer

Nuanced storytelling

The long form content viewer today has broken away from traditional, run of the mill concepts which were mass favourites. Traditional entertainment often followed familiar and predictable formulas. For example, many television shows and movies relied on standard plotlines, character archetypes, and storytelling techniques that had proven successful. Today more and more viewers are shifting are demanding nuanced and complex storylines to keep them hooked. This means they want narratives that challenge them intellectually, emotionally, and morally. They want characters with depth and development, intricate plot twists, and thought-provoking themes. This demand has led to the creation of content that explores a wide range of topics and genres.

Binge watching

Binge-watching has transformed the way audiences consume content. In the past, viewers were limited by TV schedules and movie timings, but now, with long-form content readily accessible, binge-watching has become a common phenomenon. It involves viewers becoming deeply engrossed in a show, series, or movie, often watching multiple seasons or episodes in one sitting due to content availability. Many proudly admit to being binge-watchers. This surge in binge-watching has created a higher demand for content, as consumption accelerates, prompting content creators to produce more to meet viewers’ insatiable appetite for continuous, immersive storytelling

Watching content from different regions

Most long form content had restricted distribution due to language issues. However, today, global accessibility, including subtitles and dubbing, has cultivated enthusiastic fans worldwide. The popularity of Turkish serials and K-dramas in India stands testament to this fact. The pandemic accelerated language-agnostic viewing as viewers sought compelling content through digital streaming, uncovering gems from various regions. Now, the focus is on the content’s concept and storyline, transcending language and cultural origins. This shift has expanded markets for long-form content creators.

Passive to active consumers

Today’s social media natives aren’t passive consumers of long-form content; they’re active and engaged fans. They form fan clubs, create pages for celebrities and characters, drive trending hashtags, and participate in content discussions on platforms like Reddit. This involvement sparks spin-offs, alternate storylines, and direct feedback loops with writers, influencing the creative process

Over the years, the Indian viewer’s journey has undergone a remarkable transformation, as they have played a pivotal role in shaping and driving numerous changes within the long form content market.

The author of this article is Creative Viibe founder Santosh Kher.

December 12, 2023
Industry trailblazers celebrated: Winners announced at Digital Reinvent Awards 2023

Mumbai: The Digital Reinvent Awards 2023, a prestigious event that celebrates and honours outstanding achievement in the world of streaming entertainment in India concluded its 2023 edition on 1 December 2023 with a virtual event. The Awards along with a distinguished ceremony recognizing excellence in the Indian streaming entertainment industry broadcasted live on the Digital Reinvent Facebook Page.

Netflix has once again demonstrated its unparalleled prowess in the entertainment industry, as it bagged 7 Golds and 6 Silvers across diverse categories. Noteworthy victories include the gold accolades for the compelling documentary ‘The Elephant Whisperers,’ showcasing Netflix’s ability to deliver captivating narratives in the Documentary or Non-Fiction Program or Series category. The streaming giant’s triumph in the Supporting Actress of the Year category further solidifies its standing, with Shefali Shah in ‘Darlings’ and Tillotama Shome in ‘Delhi Crime S2’ securing top honours. Netflix’s consistent excellence is highlighted in the Movie/Mini-Series category, where ‘Darlings’ and ‘Monica O My Darling’ clinch gold, reaffirming Netflix’s status as an industry leader. The total metal count stood at 13 with maximum Gold. On Top of it all, Netflix won the Platform of the Year award.

Zee Entertainment Enterprises has made a significant impact in the awards arena, securing a total of 4 gold and 4 silver awards across various categories. Zee’s adept use of influencers in ‘TVF Pitchers Season 2 Promo | Pitching to Ashneer Grover on Zee5’ earns them a silver in the Use of Influencers Using Social Media category, highlighting the strategic utilization of social media platforms. The silver-winning entry ‘Zee Bangla Mother’s Day Campaign’ showcases Zee’s prowess in the micro video content category. Additionally, Zee Bangla’s success extends to the Digital Brand Campaign of the Year, with gold awards for both ‘IPL Combat Campaign’ and ‘Neem Phuler Modhu Launch Campaign,’ exemplifying Zee Entertainment Enterprise’s versatility and creativity in digital marketing and content creation.

Following on its heels and acing digital marketing innovations has been Amazon Prime Video winning both a gold and a silver award for the Web Series of the Year category for ‘Dahaad’ and ‘Farzi’. Other individual winners on the list were Shemaroo Entertainment, Warner Bros. Discovery, Sony Liv, White Turtle Studios, Applause Entertainment and Promoshop.

PIM Asia events director Andy Chua commented, “Netflix and Zee Entertainment have truly outshone the competition at the Digital Reinvent Awards 2023, setting new benchmarks for excellence in the Indian streaming entertainment industry. This year’s total medal count of 13, with a remarkable dominance in Gold, solidifies Netflix’s status as an industry leader, culminating in the prestigious Platform of the Year award. Zee Entertainment Enterprises, equally deserving of accolades, showcased strategic brilliance across categories, securing 4 Golds and 4 Silvers. As we celebrate these achievements, it’s evident that the future of streaming entertainment is in the hands of trailblazers like Netflix and Zee, shaping the industry’s landscape with their creativity and dedication.”

December 4, 2023
SPOYL launches official merchandise for ‘The Archies’ movie

Mumbai: SPOYL, the fashion destination for Gen Z on Flipkart, is launching the official merchandise for the upcoming 1960s Netflix film ‘The Archies’ by Zoya Akhtar. Featuring over 300 limited edition styles, the Archies Gang collection includes a wide range of apparel, footwear, and accessories spanning retro classics and modern silhouettes. In a first-of-its-kind association, SPOYL and Netflix have joined hands to usher in a new era of nostalgic styles inspired by some of the most iconic pop-culture characters of our time. Shoppers can channel the style of the iconic Archies cast – Archie, Reggie, Veronica, Betty, Jughead, Moose, Ethel and Dilton, by choosing from a collection of trendy t-shirts, dresses, loungewear and more, starting at Rs 799/-.

Since its launch in August this year, SPOYL has witnessed tremendous traction from Gen Z fashion shoppers across the country. Shoppers in the 15-24 age group account for over 57 per cent engagement on the Flipkart platform today. As Gen Z shoppers continue to embrace a mix of styles spanning across 90s grunge, Y2K, Kpop, cottagecore, and gender-neutral fashion, their deep connection with social media, pop culture and global trends is palpable. Building on this momentum, the SPOYL X Archies collaboration marks the beginning of a new journey to make it the go-to destination for top trendy pop culture styles in the country.

Announcing the Archies collection launch, Flipkart Fashion Sr director Abhishek Maloo said, “With SPOYL, our mission is to provide every Gen Z fashion shopper in the country with the greatest value on trendy fashion offerings. We are thrilled to unveil the Archies collection which has been a special collaboration between fashion and entertainment in India – and the start of a new journey for us at SPOYL. We will continue to identify the best avenues that enable us to bring the best of fashion to millions of customers across India through our growing network of sellers.”

Here’s your style guide to get your favorite Archies character from SPOYL:

● Channel Betty’s chic form-fitting style with mini skirts, dresses and collared shirts layered under a vest

● Get Veronica’s effortless girl-next-door vibe with bell bottoms, pinafores and embracing prints – from florals, polka dot to checkered

● The iconic Archie jock look can be donned with bomber jackets, plaid shirts and monochromatic sweaters

● Laid back Jughead’s vibe can be recreated with striped jackets, monotone layering and of course, the quintessential cap or snapback

Around 40 per cent of new customers explore Flipkart through fashion today and customers aged between 25-35 years contribute to the highest demand observed in fashion segments on Flipkart, with top choices including t-shirts, shirts, jeans and shoes.

December 4, 2023
IMDb unveils 2023’s top Indian films and web series

Mumbai: IMDb (www.imdb.com), the world’s most popular and authoritative source for information on movies, TV shows, and celebrities, announced the 10 Indian movies released theatrically, the 10 movies that premiered on streaming services, and the 10 web series that were the most popular with IMDb users worldwide in 2023. IMDb year-end lists are based on the actual page views of the more than 200 million monthly visitors to IMDb worldwide, who rely on IMDb to discover and decide what to watch.

Atlee, director of Jawan, the number one ranking theatrical release of 2023, said, “Jawan is a captivating, emotional, action-entertainer that intricately portrays the profound emotional odyssey of a man who is determined to rectify societal injustices. This film holds a significant place in our hearts. Its reception and love from the audience worldwide is overwhelming. Throughout my formative years, my knowledge and appreciation of world cinema has been greatly enriched by IMDb. Being honored by IMDb is truly a dream come true for me. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Shah Rukh Khan sir, Red Chillies Entertainment, my wife, my team, and the esteemed audience for their invaluable contributions in making this achievement possible. My heartfelt appreciation goes out to each and every one of you.”

Karan Johar, director of Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, the number three ranking theatrical release of the year, shared, “The team and I are overwhelmed with the love and warmth we have received for Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani. To be on the top 10 list of IMDb is a massive validation of the film’s reception. I am grateful and even more energized as a filmmaker.”

“How absolutely thrilling to see both the series we released this year being loved so much,” said Farzi and Guns & Gulaabs (ranked the number one and number two web series of 2023) directors Raj & DK. “Both are such distinctly different worlds that we created for Prime Video and for Netflix. It’s quite something to have a win for both popular streaming services. Thank you, IMDb, for being consistently there for all the film lovers.”

IMDb Top 10 Most Popular Indian Movies of 2023 (Theatrical)

1 Jawan

2 Pathaan

3 Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani

4 Leo

5 OMG 2

6 Jailer

7 Gadar 2

9 The Kerala Story

9 Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar

10 Bholaa

*Of all the movies first released theatrically in India between January 1 and November 6, 2023, that have an average IMDb user rating of 5 or higher, these 10 titles were consistently the most popular with IMDb users, as determined by the actual page views of the more than 200 million monthly visitors to IMDb worldwide.

IMDb top 10 most popular Indian movies of 2023 (streaming)

1 Lust Stories 2

2 Jaane Jaan

3 Mission Majnu

4 Bawaal

5 Chor Nikal Ke Bhaga

6 Bloody Daddy

7 Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai

8 Gaslight

9 Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery

10 Mrs Undercover

*Of all the movies first released direct-to-streaming in India between January 1 and November 6, 2023, that have an average IMDb user rating of 5 or higher, these 10 titles were consistently the most popular with IMDb users, as determined by the actual page views of the more than 200 million monthly visitors to IMDb worldwide.

IMDb top 10 most popular Indian web series of 2023

1 Farzi

2 Guns & Gulaabs

3 The Night Manager

4 Kohrra

5 Asur 2

6 Rana Naidu

7 Dahaad

8 Saas, Bahu Aur Flamingo

9 Scoop

10 Jubilee

*Of all the web series released in India between January 1 and November 6, 2023, that have an average IMDb user rating of 5 or higher, these 10 titles were consistently the most popular with IMDb users, as determined by the actual page views of the more than 200 million monthly visitors to IMDb worldwide.

Additional information about this year’s lists:

● Shah Rukh Khan returned to the big screen as a leading man after a four-year hiatus with Jawan and Pathaan, which are ranked No. 1 and No. 2 on the Most Popular Indian Movies of 2023 (Theatrical) list. Khan also holds the top spot on the IMDb Most Popular Indian Stars of 2023 list. In 2023, he ranked No. 1 seven times on the weekly IMDb Popular Indian Celebrities feature, available exclusively on the IMDb app.

● Action is the most popular genre on the 10 Most Popular Indian Movies of 2023 (Theatrical) list, capturing six of the 10 spots, followed by two romances and two dramas.

● On the Most Popular Indian Web Series list, crime is the most popular genre, with nine series from this genre charting on this top 10 list.

● The Most Popular Indian Movies of 2023 (Streaming) list has representation from five subscription-based services, with five titles from Netflix, two from Zee5, and one each from Prime Video, JioCinema, and Disney+ Hotstar. The Most Popular Indian Web Series of 2023 list, on the other hand, has four titles from Netflix, three from Prime Video, two from Disney+ Hotstar, and one from JioCinema.

● All of the stars who charted on the recently announced IMDb Top 10 Most Popular Indian Stars of 2023 list also have at least one of the titles they appeared in ranking on IMDb’s year-end top titles lists. View the full list here.

● Bhuvan Arora and Angira Dhar, who were recipients of the IMDb “Breakout Star” STARmeter Award in 2023, appear in titles on the Most Popular Indian Web Series of 2023 list, with Farzi at No. 1 and Saas, Bahu Aur Flamingo at No. 8.

To learn more about the IMDb most popular Indian movies of 2023 (theatrical), watch this video and view the full list here.

To learn more about the IMDb Most Popular Indian Movies of 2023 (streaming), watch this video and view the full list here.

To learn more about the IMDb Most Popular Indian Web Series of 2023, watch this video and view the full list here.

IMDb customers can add any title to their IMDb Watchlist at https://www.imdb.com/watchlist. To help fans keep track of what they want to watch, the IMDb Watchlist feature enables customers to easily create a personalized list of the movies and web series they want to watch. Fans can add this year’s top Indian titles, as well as millions of other popular movies and web series, to their personal Watchlist. They can also sort their Watchlist by IMDb rating, popularity, and more. IMDb also offers Preferred Services, a feature that helps customers identify which movies and web series may be available for viewing at no additional cost, based on the streaming services they subscribe to.

November 30, 2023
Vistara presents ‘Flight to Riverdale’ A 1964 journey with Netflix’s The Archies

Mumbai: Vistara, a full-service carrier and a joint venture of the Tata group and Singapore Airlines is thrilled to announce its exclusive collaboration with Netflix for the highly anticipated upcoming film, The Archies, for a one-of-a-kind experience – ‘Flight to Riverdale.’ The special flight UK 1964, welcomed aboard the cast of the film for this unique experience along with lucky fans and select Club Vistara members amongst others. Set in the 1960s, the film reimagines the legendary Archie comics as a live-action musical set in the imaginary idyllic town of Riverdale in India.

UK 1964; the ‘Flight to Riverdale’ commenced from Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi at 14:40 hours and arrived at Manohar International Airport, Goa at 17:15 hours. The flight was operated on Vistara’s iconic retrojet and aimed to offer the passengers a nostalgic journey by recreating the world of Archies on board and by flying them to Riverdale; thereby offering a chance to bring a dream destination alive, one that was set up at the Manohar international Airport, Goa! The celebration onboard was marked by retro-themed décor in line with the film’s aesthetics, specially curated meals and beverages reminiscent of Pop Tate’s, customised Vistara and Netflix giveaways, and a chance for the passengers to travel with their favourite characters from The Archies.

The cast of the Archies, accompanied by the renowned directors Zoya Akhtar and Reema Kagti participated in this experience onboard UK 1964. The cast was present in character to give an authentic touch to the experience and included Suhana Khan as Veronica Lodge, Khushi Kapoor as Betty Cooper, Agastya Nanda as Archie Andrews, Aditi Saigal as Ethel Muggs, Vedang Raina as Reggie Mantle, Mihir Ahuja as Jughead Jones, and Yuvraj Menda as Dilton Doiley. While the Archies soundtrack played as part of the boarding and landing music, our in-flight entertainment system Vistara World showcased exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpses into the making of The Archies, enhancing the overall experience.

Vistara vice president marketing Deepti Sampat said, “We are delighted to be the first Indian airline to partner with Netflix to curate a journey down memory lane with our special ‘Flight to Riverdale’. Vistara Retrojet, with its nostalgic charm, not only transports us back to a golden era but also propels us into a future where the boundaries between cinema and air travel seamlessly merge, offering passengers an experience that transcends the ordinary. UK 1964 will surely leave a permanent trail of enduring memories while also evoking nostalgia.”

Netflix senior director of marketing partnerships – APAC, Shilpa Singh added, “The Archies celebrates all things food, fashion and music from the 1960s. UK 1964, Vistara’s Retrojet ‘Flight to Riverdale’ is a unique and immersive experience curated to transport the passengers back in time, all while enjoying the company of the cast and crew. This special collaboration will carry the participants into the world of The Archies before it launches on Netflix.”

Upon touching down in Goa, the celebrations continued with the arrival hall having been transformed into a mini-Riverdale adorned with retro-themed props and backdrops from the film. A lively flash mob, featuring the cast, a dance troupe, and the Vistara crew ensured a memorable welcome for all.

November 25, 2023
Skybags unveils exclusive ‘Skybags x The Archies’ backpack collection

Mumbai: Skybags, the vibrant youth-centered brand from the House of VIP Industries, has announced an exciting collaboration with the upcoming Netflix original movie ‘The Archies’. The Archies Backpack Collection’ by Skybags is a range of new backpacks that not only celebrates the much-anticipated Gen-Z-focused movie but also redefines the standards of style and innovation for the youth.

In the spirit of the groovy 1960s, ‘The Archies’ reimagines the legendary Archie Comics in a live-action musical set in India. The film marks the debut of Agastya Nanda as Archie Andrews, Khushi Kapoor as Betty Cooper, Suhana Khan as Veronica Lodge, Vedang Raina as Reggie Mantle, along with Dot as Ethel Muggs, Mihir Ahuja as Jughead Jones, and Yuvraj Menda as Dilton Doiley. The film has already created a lot of buzz on social media. Celebrating pop culture, the new Skybags collection includes a range of trendy backpacks, including daypacks, professional backpacks, and school and college backpacks inspired by the film. Tailored to fit the interests, functional needs and style of India’s Gen Z, Skybags’ new backpack collection promises to add chic flair and sophistication to any look.

Directed by Zoya Akhtar, The Archies has struck a chord with the Gen Z demographic and created unmatched cultural significance over the last few months. By introducing a range of Archies-themed backpacks, Skybags aims to create a powerful connection with their consumers, blending style with the beloved Archies fandom.

Renowned for its cutting-edge designs, innovative features and fashion-forward aesthetics, Skybags has been a leader in the Indian luggage market for many years. The brand will roll out an extensive 360-degree campaign for this collaboration across print, digital, and outdoor advertising with eye-catching hoardings, below-the-line (BTL) activations, and the in-store experience. To add an extra layer of excitement, exclusive giveaways are offered for those who choose to purchase through the official website, enhancing customer engagement and making this collaboration even more exciting.

VIP Industries Ltd VP marketing Praful Gupta expressed his excitement about the collaboration, saying, “This partnership with The Archies is a remarkable step in our journey to engage more deeply with India’s youth. The Archies, with its huge cast, has already garnered a massive fan following, and we see great potential in this collaboration. ‘Skybags x Archies’ represents the perfect blend of style and sophistication, offering a unique, trendy product range that resonates deeply with the spirit of the youth.”

Get ready to immerse yourself in the nostalgia of Archies with a modern twist as “Skybags x Archies” is set to redefine your backpack game. This much-awaited Skybags collection is available at VIP retail stores, all top e-commerce platforms, departmental stores, leading multi-brand outlets and the Skybags webstore at www.skybags.co.in.

November 23, 2023