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Tag: Netflix

  • 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.

  • MIB summons Netflix content head over IC814: The Kandahar Attack

    MIB summons Netflix content head over IC814: The Kandahar Attack

    MUMBAI: The ministry of information and broadcasting is cracking the whip on another series. This time it has summoned Netflix India content head Monika Shergill to Shastri Bhavan relating to “objectionable” treatment of the series IC814: the Kandahar Hijack which is based on the real life hijacking of an Indian Airlines plane in 1999 by Pakistan terrorists.  

    Created by Anubhav Sinha and Trishant Srivastava, the show is inspired by the book ‘Flight Into Fear: The Captain’s Story’ Devi Sharan, who was the captain of the flight and journalist Srinjoy Chowdhury

    IC814 has raised a stink on social media as hundreds of social media users have objected to the Pakistani terrorists names being changed to Bhola and Shankar while the real names were 
    Ibrahim Athar, Shahid Akhtar Sayed, Sunny Ahmed Qazi, Mistri Zahoor Ibrahim and Shakir. Several X-ers have complained that the changing of the names has been done to protect the Muslim community and besmirch Hindus.

    The furore could end  up being a storm in a teacup. NDTV.com,  quoting a home ministry statement dated 6 January 2000, has shared that the hijackers had come to be known as Chief, (2) Doctor, (3) Burger, (4) Bhola and (5) Shankar to the passengers in the plane as this how they addressed each other.

    The  incident  was unfortunate as the Atal Behari Vajpayee government (which was in power then) had to release three imprisoned terrorists Masood Azhar, Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh and Mushtaq Ahmed Zargar in exchange for the lives of the passengers of the hijacked plane. 
     

  • Six audiobooks & films celebrating sibling bonds

    Six audiobooks & films celebrating sibling bonds

    Mumbai: On this Rakshabandhan, let’s celebrate the bonds we share with our first friends and lifelong confidants—our siblings. From playful fights and pranks to sharing secrets and protecting each other from parents, these connections are the foundation of our lives. Today, immerse yourself in the magic of sibling relationships with audiobooks and films that explore this special bond. Whether it’s the inspiring journey of the Chopra brothers in Brotherhood on Audible or the emotional ups and downs of Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham on Netflix, these stories remind us of the enduring power of sibling love. After all, who knows us better than those we’ve shared laughter, tears, and secrets with since childhood?

    Brotherhood

    Bonded for better or worse, your brother’s someone no one can replace! ‘Brotherhood’ captures this sentiment, exploring the deep connection between two brothers as they journey from post-independence India to the United States. It chronicles their experiences as they navigate the challenges of being doctors in a foreign land, grappling with cultural differences and professional scepticism. Despite these obstacles, the Chopra brothers find their place in America, with Deepak becoming a global spiritual leader and Sanjiv rising to prominence as a Harvard Medical School professor. Tune in to be a part of their story, one that is a testament to resilience, ambition, and the pursuit of the American dream.

    A House without Windows

    In this audiobook, the bonds between women, forged in the most unlikely of places, illuminate the complexities of sisterhood in a harsh, traditional society. When Zeba is accused of her husband’s brutal murder, she finds herself in prison, surrounded by other women whose lives have also been torn apart by the harsh judgments of their society. As they share their stories, these women, each broken in her own way, forge a bond that transcends the walls of their cell, becoming each other’s strength and solace. Zeba’s fate lies in the hands of Yusuf, her Afghan-American lawyer, but it’s the unbreakable bond with her fellow inmates that truly defines her fight for justice.

    Shadow Sibings

    In the audiobook, Emma, a young girl, navigates life in the shadow of her brother’s medical condition. Rather than feeling overlooked, she discovers that her true superpower lies in supporting him, turning her role into one of strength and purpose. As she meets other children with siblings facing their own challenges, Emma realises she’s part of a special, unspoken bond among “shadow siblings,” those who shine brightest by lifting up their brothers and sisters. This is a story of hope, love, and acceptance ideal for all ages while bringing a spotlight to kids who we affectionately refer to as Shadow Siblings.

    Dil Dhadakne Do

    The Mehra family is celebrating Kamal and Neelam’s 30th wedding anniversary with a luxurious Mediterranean cruise, but beneath the glamour lies a web of strained relationships and hidden desires. The couple’s children, Ayesha and Kabir, navigate their complicated lives—Ayesha, stuck in a loveless marriage, rekindles feelings for her childhood love, Sunny, while Kabir dreams of breaking free from the family business to pursue his passion. As the cruise unfolds, the bonds between them are tested, revealing long-buried truths that force the family to confront their past mistakes and ultimately bring them closer together in unexpected ways. 

    Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham

    In a tale of family bonds tested by tradition and class divides, Yashvardhan Raichand’s strict adherence to his final word leads to the heart-wrenching separation of his adopted son Rahul. As Rahul defies his father’s wishes by marrying the spirited Anjali, his younger brother Rohan is left to piece together the broken ties years later. Determined to reunite the family, Rohan sets on a journey to bring his estranged brother back home, rekindling the deep bond between siblings and challenging the very traditions that tore them apart. If you’re looking to enjoy a story of love, forgiveness, and the enduring strength of family ties, this is the perfect watch for you.

    Chasing Happiness

    ‘Chasing Happiness’ is a story of brotherhood that takes you behind the scenes of the Jonas Brothers’ journey from humble beginnings as pastor’s sons in New Jersey to global superstardom. Their bond seemed unbreakable until a painful breakup sent Joe, Kevin, and Nick down separate paths, testing their relationship like never before. Through intimate interviews and rare footage, this story reveals the unshakable connection that ultimately brought them back together, stronger than ever.

  • Revenues up 11 per cent in 1H 2024 for Southeast Asia’s premium VOD sector

    Revenues up 11 per cent in 1H 2024 for Southeast Asia’s premium VOD sector

    Mumbai: The premium video-on-demand (VOD) landscape in Southeast Asia continues to grow revenues at a double-digit pace with viewership relatively robust, as revealed by the latest analysis conducted by ampd, the digital measurement platform owned and operated by Media Partners Asia (MPA).

    Southeast Asia’s premium VOD category generated more than 230 billion minutes in viewership over 1H 2024, up four per cent Y/Y, driven by growth in the Philippines and Indonesia. Category revenues, including subscription fees and advertising sales, grew 11 per cent Y/Y to US$895 million with gains across the region’s five main markets, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines and Singapore. Indonesia continues to retain the first position in terms of revenues. The region added one million net new SVOD subscriptions over 1H 2024 to reach 48.8 million, representing Y/Y growth of 5 per cent. Philippines, Thailand and Malaysia led customer growth.

    MPA executive director Vivek Couto said: “While price increases have moderated customer growth, growing penetration beyond the major urban centers in Indonesia, Philippines and Thailand remains a major opportunity as premium sports, local, Asian and US content moves online. Korean, US, Chinese & Japanese content captured 80 per cent of premium VOD viewership in Southeast Asia in 1H 2024. While Korean content remains the major driver, Chinese dramas are increasing freemium viewership. US content remains the leading acquisition funnel across global services. Local content maintains strong reach, with acquisition impact.”

    Netflix and Viu both grew revenues at a significant double-digit pace in 1H 2024. Netflix’s share of category viewership reached 50 per cent in 1H 2024 overall, dominating viewership in Malaysia, Philippines and Singapore but facing strong local competition and more complex category dynamics in Indonesia and Thailand. Netflix’s category revenue share, including ads, reached 40 per cent in 1H 2024. Viu had 10 per cent viewership and category revenue share in 1H 2024. In spite of shedding subs, Disney+ revenues continue to grow as the service focuses on a higher ARPU customer funnel. WeTV retained a robust category engagement share in SEA at eight per cent in 1H 2024. Amongst local players, Vidio leads in Indonesia with 20 per cent category revenue share in 1H 2024 and 17 per cent viewership share, driven by heartland local dramas and sports. Thailand’s True ID led Thailand with 27 per cent premium VOD category viewership share though it remains second to Netflix in revenue share.

    Premium VOD viewership in Southeast Asia (1H 2024)

    Source: ampd

  • For an average Indian viewer, distinction between original and adapted content is often irrelevant: Mautik Tolia

    For an average Indian viewer, distinction between original and adapted content is often irrelevant: Mautik Tolia

    Mumbai:  With over 3000+ hours of content produced across 50+ shows for major broadcasters and OTT platforms, Bodhitree Multimedia Ltd specializes in drama, thriller, horror, comedy, and lifestyle genres. Their services encompass producing, directing, writing, dubbing, mixing, subtitling, content editing, and localization for a variety of media including television, films, and digital platforms, operating primarily on a B2B business model.

    The company operates in three main verticals: Broadcast – Hindi General Entertainment, Content for OTT platforms, and Regional Content across languages such as Tamil, Marathi, Bengali, and Gujarati for broadcast and digital. By focusing on trending and edgy themes, Bodhitree has established a strong reputation in the Indian media industry, becoming a preferred partner for many broadcasters and OTT platforms, thanks to their versatile and high-quality productions.

    Bodhitree most recently launched Gunaah on Hotstar, Class on Netflix. Other titles under Bodhitree include Fuh se Fantasy, The Gone Game, Marzi, The Raikar Case, among others.

    Indiantelevision.com reached out to Bodhitree Multimedia’s managing director Mautik Tolia, where he highlighted their significant content consumption growth, adaptations, new ventures and much more…

    Edited excepts

    Your recent show “Gunaah” on Disney+ Hotstar has been a significant success with 3.4 million views. What factors do you attribute to its popularity, and how does it fit into BTML’s overall content strategy?

    When we examined the original Turkish content, we found it to be highly plot-driven and filled with raw emotions. These elements resonate strongly with the Indian audience due to their deep-rooted appeal in pulpy storytelling, themes of revenge, drama, and family betrayal. Recognizing this, we tailored the content into a love story, confident that it would connect well with Indian audiences, particularly those who consume Hotstar. This approach has proven successful, garnering a very positive response for the show.

    BTML has been actively expanding into new ventures such as media rights management and studio facilities. How do these new ventures complement your core business of content production?

    Our strategy involves vertical expansion within our existing businesses, addressing specific infrastructure needs within the industry. We aim to fill crucial gaps in the market, ensuring we meet growing demands effectively.

    With the establishment of subsidiaries focusing on regional content like Marathi and Bhojpuri, how important is regional language content to BTML’s growth strategy, and what are your future plans in this segment?

    Regional content plays an important role in our strategy, given its exponential growth potential, especially through OTT platforms as internet penetration increases. While Hindi remains a dominant market, regional languages such as Tamil, Telugu, and Bengali are gaining significant traction in content consumption, mirroring trends seen in traditional broadcasting. We are poised to capitalize on this shift by producing tailored content in regional languages.

    BTML reported a 50% revenue growth in FY24 and an EBITDA margin of 14.23%. What were the key drivers behind this growth, and how do you plan to sustain this momentum in the coming years?

    Key drivers behind this growth is that our expanded content strategy is more inclusive than before, encompassing a wider range of platforms beyond TV and OTT. This diversification includes the establishment of subsidiaries and other strategic initiatives, reflecting our commitment to broader market coverage and sustained growth.

    Adaptations like “Class” on Netflix have been well-received. Could you elaborate on your thoughts on adapting international content for the Indian audience?

    For an average Indian viewer, the distinction between original and adapted content is often irrelevant; what matters most is the quality and appeal of the content itself. Whether an adaptation of an international series or a homegrown production, viewers judge based on its merits rather than its origins.

    As the managing director, what is your vision for BTML in the next 5-10 years, and how do you plan to position the company amidst competition and changing consumer preferences?

    The industry is undergoing rationalization, and we position ourselves to serve all verticals of content creation comprehensively. Our trajectory aims to encompass diverse languages, genres, and formats, ensuring a versatile presence in the content creation landscape.

  • NFDC and Netflix partner to launch “The Voicebox”

    NFDC and Netflix partner to launch “The Voicebox”

    Mumbai: National Film Development Corporation, a public sector enterprise under the aegis of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MoIB), has joined hands with Netflix India to launch an upskilling program for voice-over artists in India called “The Voicebox”.

    The occasion was graced by Shri. Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, MoIB, Vrunda Desai, joint secretary (Films), MoIB, Shri. Aditya Kutty, legal director, Netflix, Freddy Soames, head of competition policy, Netflix, and Sharad Mehra, chairman, Pearl Academy, among others.

    Today at Shastri Bhawan, Prithul Kumar, managing director, of National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) and joint secretary (Broadcasting II), MoIB and Kiran Desai, general counsel, and senior director – of business and legal affairs, Netflix India, signed the MoU to formalise the partnership, which aligns with NFDC and Netflix’s combined vision to promote Indian cinema and nurture talent in the Media and Entertainment industry.

    “The Voicebox” program will offer Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) training for voice-over artists focusing on English, Hindi, Marathi, Bengali, Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu and Gujarati languages. As part of the program, structured workshops, which would include training (featuring guest lectures and mentoring sessions), followed by an assessment, will be conducted in seven major cities of India – New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Kochi. Each batch would accommodate up to 30 candidates, with 210 participants selected through preliminary screening. At least 50 per cent of the participants will be women.  

    Pearl Academy, India’s leading design institute will join as a Training Partner for this program. Seven top participants from every batch will be chosen to contribute to Netflix’s special project, “Azaadi ki Amrit Kahaniya”, where they will lend their voices to narrate stories reflecting the Indian independence movement.

    The program is open to professionals, preferably women, with more than two years of experience in the media and entertainment sector, who are eager to enhance their skills in voice-over.

    This Voicebox program is sponsored by the Netflix Fund for Creative Equity, which has dedicated $100 million a year over five years to setting underrepresented communities up for success in the TV and film industries through programs all around the world.

  • Kota Factory Season 3 features in Netflix Global Top 10

    Kota Factory Season 3 features in Netflix Global Top 10

    Mumbai: Netflix’s highly acclaimed black-and-white student drama, Kota Factory Season 3, which dropped on Thursday, June 20th, has captured the hearts of fans in India and beyond. Since its launch, the series has been trending at the #1 spot in Netflix India’s Top 10 TV Shows and earned the #7 spot on Netflix’s Global Top 10 Non-English TV  in seven countries! Directed by Pratish Mehta and produced by TVF Productions, Kota Factory Season 3 is helmed by showrunner Raghav Subbu.

    Kota Factory Season 3 showrunner Raghav Subbu shared, “Kota Factory is very special for me. There’s nothing more a storyteller can ask for than to have their work viewed and loved by so many, across the Indian subcontinent.  I’m incredibly grateful to Netflix for continuing to believe in the story and to our incredible Kota Factory cast and crew without whom the show would not exist. It’s remarkable how a story and its themes have uniquely captivated India and can resonate with so many young people, that’s reflective of the current generation and their struggles.”

    Netflix India series head Tanya Bami said, “Kota Factory is such a special show for so many people and I am overjoyed that it is touching hearts around the world. TVF has been a great creative partner who understands the nuances of storytelling in this genre. The relatable depiction of young adults and their choices, struggles, and dilemmas is why the show has built such devoted fandom over the years. To be able to see the message of building characters through resilience resonating so deeply with audiences, inspires us to bring more and more of such meaningful stories to our members.”

    Fans of the show have appreciated the series for its realistic portrayal of the endless efforts and preparations the students put themselves through to achieve their dreams. They note how the series masterfully intertwines the anxieties and disappointments of the JEE journey with the joys and successes it promises. Viewers have particularly lauded the authentic portrayal of Jeetu Bhaiya’s struggles with mental health this season, noting how his growth mirrors that of his students. Audiences felt deeply connected to students like Vaibhav, finding comfort in his continued resilience and determination to keep trying despite experiencing failures.

    Here are a few of the words of appreciation the show has received from fans since its release

  • Entourage Films presents KitKat and Netflix ad campaign

    Entourage Films presents KitKat and Netflix ad campaign

    Mumbai: Entourage Films is excited to announce a new ad campaign with the two iconic brands KitKat and Netflix. This creatively scripted collaboration showcases KitKat’s distinctive concept of “breaks” within the engaging world of Netflix.

    Director Sharat Katariya, celebrated for his humor and exceptional storytelling, seamlessly blended the world of KitKat and Netflix into an engaging experience for the viewers. Starring Bollywood sensation Ayushmann Khurrana, the film takes viewers on a delightful journey in the Netflix world.

    At the heart of the campaign is the theme of taking a break, a concept synonymous with KitKat’s brand identity. As Ayushmann, feels bored with repetitive roles on a movie set, he yearns for a break. The commercial cleverly highlights the idea that just like there’s a KitKat for everyone, there’s a Netflix show or movie for every mood.

    Entourage Films executive producer Garima Arora shared: “Working with KitKat, Netflix and Ayushmann Khurrana was a fantastic experience. The set was full of laughter and chocolates, it definitely felt like a big family gathering. Sharat and I were thrilled to be part of this project and we look forward to more collaborations.”

    This film shows the exciting potential when two major brands join forces to create something fresh and innovative. This collaboration between KitKat and Netflix is a masterful blend of humor, storytelling, and brand synergy. It invites viewers to pause, enjoy a KitKat, and immerse themselves in the endless entertainment options that Netflix offers. By combining the pleasures of a sweet treat and top-notch entertainment, the campaign creates a compelling message to unwind and enjoy a break.

  • Father’s Day: Binge-worthy list of audio, web series and films celebrating father-child bond

    Father’s Day: Binge-worthy list of audio, web series and films celebrating father-child bond

    Mumbai: A father embraces a multitude of roles – being a superhero, a support system, a buddy and a guide all at once. This Father’s Day, get ready to experience a gamut of emotions: happiness, joy, sadness, regret and inspiration with this compelling list of seven films, audio and web series that explore the many facets of fatherhood.

    Marvel’s Wastelanders: Hawkeye

    Platform: Audible

    Thirty years ago, the villains of the world rose and killed all the heroes. Well, all the heroes that mattered. The sole survivor of the Avengers, Hawkeye (Jaideep Ahlawat) is now a sideshow freak, re-living the worst day of his life for paying audiences. He’s surly, broken, and losing his sight, but there’s still that fire in him to be a hero, to avenge his friends. Hawkeye gets an unexpected visitor, his estranged 17-year-old daughter Ash (Prajakta Koli) on her quest for vengeance after losing her best friend. Tune into this gripping Hindi Audible Original podcast series to experience Jaideep Ahlawat and Prajakta Koli portraying the ultimate father-daughter duo avenging the death of their loved ones.

    Let Her Fly

    Platform: Audible

    This audiobook is about the journey of a father, Ziauddin Yousafzai, fighting for equality not only for his daughter, Malala Yousafzai but for all girls around the world living in patriarchal societies. Narrated through intimate portraits of each of Ziauddin’s closest relationships – as a son to a traditional father; as a father to Malala and her brothers, educated and growing up in the West; as a husband to a wife finally learning to read and write; as a brother to five sisters still living in the patriarchy – ‘Let Her Fly’ looks at what it means to love, to have courage and fight for what is inherently right. Personal in its detail and universal in its themes, this audiobook is an inspiring listen for all fathers.

    Bachelor Dad

    Platform: Audible

    Tusshar Kapoor a popular Bollywood actor, and father encapsulates the journey of being a father in the Audible audiobook ‘Bachelor Dad’. Documented in a straightforward, fun, no-holds-barred, and incisive first-person narrative, Tusshar reveals interesting childhood anecdotes, the process of raising a child as a single man in India, how the search for the perfect soulmate doesn’t stop after having a child, and finally how his son, Laksshya, changed his life forever.

    Drishyam 2

    Platform: Prime Video

    ‘Drishyam 2,’ the sequel to the 2015 Malayalam thriller ‘Drishyam,’ picks up where the first film left off. The movie showcases the strong bond between Vijay Salgaonkar and his family as they face the repercussions of his past actions. A commercial success, the film keeps you on the edge of your seat with its suspenseful narrative that throws curveballs as the shadows of the past resurface. It’s a thrilling watch that celebrates both paternal love and the unwavering strength of family.

    This is Us

    Platform: Prime Video

    An absolute tear-jerker, this award-winning series is a must-watch with the family. It delves into the stories of three siblings and the complexities of fatherhood across generations. From Jack’s unwavering support to Randall’s journey to find his biological father, ‘This is Us’ presents a relatable and emotional narrative of the father-child bond. Keep the tissue box handy for this one and prepare for an experience that will remind you of the power of family and leave you feeling grateful for them.

    Hi Nanna

    Platform: Netflix

    ‘Hi Nanna’ is a heartwarming Telugu language film that celebrates the bond between a single father, Viraj, and his daughter, Mahi. The daughter who is suffering from cystic fibrosis is curious about her mother and seeks help from her new friend to convince her dad to share more about their love story and details about her mother. But why did her mother abandon them? To know more, watch the film which is a beautiful depiction of how a father shields his child from every problem and the special relationship between a father and daughter, making it an ideal watch this Father’s Day.

    The Pursuit of Happyness

    Platform: Netflix

    This inspiring true story follows Chris Gardner, a newly single dad struggling to make ends meet when he joins a brokerage firm to become a stockbroker. Will Smith delivers a powerful performance as Chris, who is determined to lift himself and his son out of poverty and work his way up at the firm. The film is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the incredible sacrifices fathers make for their children. It’s a perfect watch as an ode to all fathers who go above and beyond to provide for their families and make their dreams come true.

  • MIB to convene with Netflix, Disney, Amazon, Google and Meta on broadcast regulations

    MIB to convene with Netflix, Disney, Amazon, Google and Meta on broadcast regulations

    Mumbai: The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has summoned the nation’s leading OTT platforms, including Netflix, Disney, Amazon, along with tech giants Google and Meta, for a meeting on 14 June to discuss new broadcast service regulations.

    Stakeholders are worried that the bill’s provisions for official certification and regulatory committees could stifle artistic freedom. It calls for the creation of content evaluation committees with members from various social groups to review and approve shows before their release.

    While films in Indian cinemas are currently reviewed and certified by a government-appointed board, streamed content does not undergo this process.