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Tag: Star Wars

  • Audible and Disney launches new kid-focused audio originals: Frozen, Cars & Star Wars

    Audible and Disney launches new kid-focused audio originals: Frozen, Cars & Star Wars

    Mumbai: Audible, Inc., the creator and provider of premium audio storytelling, and Disney Publishing released three new Audible Originals today from Disney’s Frozen, Disney & Pixar’s Cars, and Star Wars, in addition to 60 audiobooks featuring stories including Finding Dory, Marvel’s Avengers, Monsters, Inc., Mulan, and Toy Story. All of these offerings are available today exclusively on Audible at audible.com.

    Today’s three Audible Originals feature multiple Disney character voices and immersive sound design. The titles include:

    1   Star Wars: Padawan’s Pride

    Jedi Knight Obi-Wan Kenobi and his Padawan Anakin Skywalker star in this thrilling galactic adventure set three years after the events of Star Wars: The Phantom Menace. When a Republic spy goes missing on the Moons of Varl, the Jedi Council asks Obi-Wan and Anakin to infiltrate an underground podracing circuit run by a crime boss believed to be holding the spy prisoner. Master and apprentice must use all their Jedi skills in this action-packed tale of cutthroat competition, deadly deception, and, ultimately, what it means to be a Padawan. Recommended for ages 8–12. Written by Bryan Q. Miller.

    2   Disney Frozen: Olaf’s Quest

    Olaf, Arendelle’s adorable snowman, loves to read. One day, an unexpected message leads Olaf and his friends Anna, Kristoff, and Sven on a quest for a place known as Haus Biblio, described as a “sea of stories.” Join the group’s journey as they cross over mountains, search for monsters under bridges, and have conversations with friendly sheep. Recommended for ages 6–8. Written by Suzanne Francis.

    3   Disney Pixar Cars: The Legend of the Crystal Hubcap

    Best friends Lightning McQueen and Mater are on the road to attend Mater’s sister’s wedding across the country when they accidentally find themselves at the legendary Cave of the Crystal Hubcap. Legend has it, that whoever gazes into this hubcap becomes the luckiest racer in the world. Mater thinks the hubcap would make the perfect wedding gift and heads into the cave in search of it with Lightning—when it comes to treasure hunting, sometimes friendships are the greatest treasures of all. Recommended for ages 3–5. Written by Steve Behling.

    Rachel Ghiazza, Chief Content Officer at Audible, said: “As a customer-obsessed company, we know our devoted listeners want to share their love of audio with the children in their lives. We believe imagination is at the core of family entertainment, which Disney has championed as an industry leader for generations. We’re honoured to collaborate with Disney to bring smiles to kids’ faces when they hear the swoosh of Obi-Wan Kenobi’s lightsaber or the squeal of Lightning McQueen’s tires. New audio adventures begin today, and we can’t wait to share what’s in store over the next few years.”

    Disney Publishing’s Tonya Agurto, Senior Vice President of New IP and Global Business Development said, “Kids-targeted audio experiences connect families, spark imagination, and foster a life-long love of storytelling. Disney Publishing is delighted to bring original and enchanting stories to Audible listeners which span beloved franchises and characters across Disney Frozen, Pixar and Star Wars.”

    This new content follows Audible’s global launch of Kids Profiles. In this new, kid-friendly listening space on Audible, parents can easily share audio titles with children, delighting their little ones while ensuring that audio content can be enjoyed in a parent-controlled environment right from the Audible app. Children will only be able to see and listen to titles shared with them. For instructions on how to create a Kids’ Profile and additional information, click here.

    The Disney titles join a quickly expanding offering of family listening content on Audible including Pottermore Publishing’s complete Harry Potter collection and the forthcoming full-cast audio productions of the original Harry Potter stories; Sesame Workshop’s The Sesame Street Podcast with Foley and Friends (Seasons 1-3) and Ready, Set, Ride with Elmo; Hasbro’s Peppa Pig’s Play-A-Long Podcast; Nickelodeon’s Are You Afraid of the Dark? The Official Podcast; Letters from Camp (Seasons 1-3), produced and performed by Jamie Lee Curtis and an all-star cast; KIDZ BOP Never Stop, from the #1 music brand for kids; and more. Audible’s production and development deals include collaborations with top industry creatives such as President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama’s Higher Ground, Kerry Washington’s Simpson Street, Daniel Dae Kim’s 3AD Productions, Lorne Michaels’ Broadway Video Enterprises, and James Patterson Entertainment.

  • Journey Through the Reel: Discovering Europe’s Most Iconic TV and Film Locations

    Journey Through the Reel: Discovering Europe’s Most Iconic TV and Film Locations

    Europe, a continent rich in history and culture, has long been a favoured destination for filmmakers and TV producers, offering a myriad of stunning locations that have captivated audiences worldwide. From the bustling streets of London to the picturesque villages of the Mediterranean, these destinations have become more than just settings – they are characters in their own right, integral to the stories being told. For travellers seeking the best city breaks in Europe, embarking on a journey to these memorable locations offers a unique way to experience the magic of their favourite TV shows and films. This article explores some of the most iconic European settings featured in popular media, providing a guide for your next cinematic-inspired trip.

    1. Dubrovnik, Croatia: The Real King’s Landing

    ‘Game of Thrones’ Phenomenon

    Dubrovnik, a stunning coastal city in Croatia, gained worldwide recognition as the filming location for King’s Landing in the critically acclaimed TV series ‘Game of Thrones’. This medieval city, with its ancient walls and historic architecture, provided the perfect backdrop for the fictional capital of the Seven Kingdoms. A 2019 survey revealed that 50% of the series’ fans expressed a desire to visit Dubrovnik, showcasing its impact on tourism.

    Exploring the City

    Visitors can explore the iconic Fort Lovrijenac, the setting for the Red Keep, and walk the city walls where pivotal scenes were shot. The nearby Trsteno Arboretum, another filming location, offers a serene escape and a glimpse into the lush gardens of King’s Landing.

    2. Edinburgh, Scotland: The Wizarding World Comes to Life

    Harry Potter’s Magical Alleys

    Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is intrinsically linked with the Harry Potter series. J.K. Rowling penned much of the early novels in the city, drawing inspiration from its enchanting streets and historic buildings. The picturesque Victoria Street is said to be the real-world inspiration for Diagon Alley, captivating fans with its vibrant shops and cobbled paths.

    Literary Pilgrimage

    The Elephant House café, where Rowling wrote parts of the series, has become a pilgrimage site for fans. Additionally, the Balmoral Hotel, where Rowling completed the final book, offers a special Harry Potter package, complete with a tour of locations that inspired the author.

    3. Paris, France: Romance in the City of Lights

    ‘Amélie’ and the Charm of Montmartre

    Paris, often dubbed the city of love and lights, has been the backdrop for numerous films, but none perhaps as charmingly Parisian as ‘Amélie’. Set in the bohemian Montmartre district, the film showcases the quintessential Parisian experience, from quaint cafés to scenic streets. A 2018 study found that locations featured in ‘Amélie’ saw a 30% increase in tourist visits.

    Following Amélie’s Footsteps

    Tourists can visit the iconic Café des Deux Moulins where Amélie worked, stroll through the vibrant Place du Tertre, and take in the views from the steps of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, all pivotal locations in the film.

    4. Salzburg, Austria: A Musical Journey

    ‘The Sound of Music’ Legacy

    Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, is also known for its association with ‘The Sound of Music’. This beloved musical, filmed in and around Salzburg, continues to attract fans to its picturesque settings. Mirabell Gardens, where the song ‘Do-Re-Mi’ was filmed, and the Nonnberg Abbey, are must-visit spots for enthusiasts.

    Organized Tours and Festivals

    The city offers organized ‘Sound of Music’ tours, taking fans to various filming locations. Additionally, the annual Salzburg Festival celebrates the film and the city’s musical heritage, drawing thousands of visitors each year.

    5. Matmata, Tunisia: A Galaxy Far, Far Away

    ‘Star Wars’ and the Desert Planet

    Matmata in Tunisia may seem an unlikely tourist destination, but its unique landscape made it the perfect setting for Tatooine, the desert planet in ‘Star Wars’. The troglodyte dwellings of Matmata were transformed into the home of Luke Skywalker, bringing an otherworldly charm to the small Tunisian town.

    Ongoing Attraction for Fans

    Despite the decades since the original ‘Star Wars’ release, fans continue to flock to Matmata to visit the iconic Hotel Sidi Driss, which served as the interior for Luke’s home. The site remains a testament to the enduring appeal of the “Star Wars” universe.

    6. Bruges, Belgium: Medieval Backdrop of a Dark Comedy

    ‘In Bruges’ and the Medieval City

    The medieval city of Bruges in Belgium was the primary location for the dark comedy ‘In Bruges’. With its well-preserved medieval architecture, picturesque canals, and cobblestone streets, Bruges provided an idyllic yet melancholic backdrop for the film.

    Exploring the City’s Charms

    Visitors can explore the Belfry of Bruges, where key scenes were shot, and enjoy a boat tour along the canals, much like the film’s protagonists. The city’s blend of history, art, and unique Flemish culture makes it a must-visit destination.

    7. Florence, Italy: Renaissance in the Spotlight

    ‘A Room with a View’ and the Italian Romance

    Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, gained cinematic fame through movies like ‘A Room with a View’. This film showcased the city’s romantic allure, with its art-rich galleries and scenic vistas. Florence’s Palazzo Vecchio and the surrounding Tuscan countryside have since become synonymous with the film’s exploration of love and beauty.

    Walking Through Art and History

    Visitors can take guided tours highlighting locations from the film, including the Uffizi Gallery and Piazza della Signoria. The city’s blend of art, history, and cinematic nostalgia creates a deeply immersive experience, making it a top destination for film buffs and art lovers alike.

    8. London, England: A Cinematic Melting Pot

    ‘Notting Hill’ and Urban Romance

    London’s cosmopolitan vibe has been captured in numerous films, but ‘Notting Hill’ stands out for its portrayal of the city’s charming, eclectic neighbourhoods. The film’s use of Portobello Road Market and the iconic blue door of William Thacker’s house has made Notting Hill an essential stop for rom-com fans.

    Beyond the Big Screen

    London’s cinematic appeal extends beyond specific films, with landmarks like the Tower Bridge, the British Museum, and the Houses of Parliament appearing in countless movies. A tour of London offers a multifaceted experience, combining historical grandeur with modern cinematic appeal.

    9. Prague, Czech Republic: A Fairy Tale Setting

    The Magical Backdrop of ‘Amadeus’

    Prague’s historic and bohemian charm was beautifully captured in the Oscar-winning film ‘Amadeus’. The city’s baroque architecture and old-world streets perfectly depicted 18th-century Vienna, the setting for Mozart’s life story.

    Exploring the City’s Cinematic Beauty

    Visitors can explore the Estates Theatre, where scenes from ‘Amadeus’ were filmed, and wander through the ancient streets of the Old Town. Prague’s enchanting atmosphere, rich in history and culture, makes it a favourite for filmmakers and tourists alike.

    10. Barcelona, Spain: Architectural Marvels on Screen

    ‘Vicky Cristina Barcelona’ and Gaudí’s Masterpieces

    Barcelona’s unique architecture, particularly the works of Antoni Gaudí, played a starring role in Woody Allen’s ‘Vicky Cristina Barcelona’. The film’s use of locations like Park Güell and the Sagrada Família highlighted the city’s artistic flair and Mediterranean charm.

    A Tour of Gaudí’s Creations

    Tourists can embark on a journey through Gaudí’s architectural wonders, experiencing the vibrant culture and artistic spirit of Barcelona. The city’s blend of art, history, and modernity makes it an irresistible destination for movie enthusiasts.

    11. Reykjavik, Iceland: Otherworldly Landscapes

    ‘Interstellar’ and Iceland’s Extraterrestrial Terrain

    Iceland, with its dramatic landscapes, has become a popular filming location for sci-fi movies, most notably in ‘Interstellar’. The country’s glaciers, black sand beaches, and rugged terrain provided the perfect stand-in for alien planets, captivating audiences with their ethereal beauty.

    Experiencing Iceland’s Natural Wonders

    Visitors to Iceland can explore the same locations used in ‘Interstellar’, such as the Svínafellsjökull glacier and the volcanic beaches of Vik. Iceland offers a unique opportunity to experience the awe-inspiring natural settings that have become synonymous with otherworldly cinematic adventures.

    Conclusion

    Europe’s tapestry of cities and landscapes has not only provided breathtaking backdrops for some of the most memorable films and TV shows but also offers travellers a chance to immerse themselves in these cinematic worlds. From the Renaissance streets of Florence to the otherworldly landscapes of Iceland, each destination offers its own unique allure, blending art, history, and the magic of the movies. As you plan your next European adventure, consider these iconic locations for an experience that transcends the screen, bringing the stories and settings you love to life.

  • D23 Expo 2022: Marvel Studios, Lucasfilm and 20th Century Studios showcase upcoming offerings

    D23 Expo 2022: Marvel Studios, Lucasfilm and 20th Century Studios showcase upcoming offerings

    Mumbai: At the recently concluded Disney fan event, D23 Expo 2022 in Anaheim, California Lucasfilm, Marvel Studios and 20th Century Studios made presentations.

    The Walt Disney Studios chairman Alan Bergman reflected on the 13-year history of D23 Expo—as well as the evolution of the Studios group. “That [first] year, none of the iconic studios you’ll hear from today were part of the company. It was just Disney Animation, Disney Live Action, and Pixar. We announced the Marvel acquisition just before our first expo in 2009. Then three years later, we added Lucasfilm, and in 2019, 20th Century Studios. I’ve been at Disney for 26 years, so it’s been incredibly exciting to welcome each of them to our studio family. And like Disney and Pixar, each of these studios has a phenomenal legacy of storytelling,” Bergman explained.

    Lucasfilm: Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy introduced the content line-up. The movie “Indiana Jones 5” will be released next year on 30 June 2023. She welcomed the film’s director, James Mangold, who shared details and first-look footage from the upcoming fifth instalment of the “Indiana Jones” franchise. Kennedy and Mangold were joined on stage by the film’s stars, Harrison Ford and Phoebe Waller-Bridge. “Thank you for making these films such an incredible experience for all of us. I’m very proud to say that this one is fantastic, and [Waller-Bridge] is one of the reasons.”

    “”Indiana Jones” movies are about fantasy and mystery, but they’re also about heart… I’m really, really happy that we have a really human story to tell, as well as a movie that will kick your [butt],” said an emotional Ford. This is the first “Indiana Jones” movie that will not be directed by Steven Spielberg.

    Andor is a 24-episode spy thriller. The era featured in Andor—the five years before the events of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story—is filled with danger, deception, and intrigue, where Cassian Andor will embark on the path that is destined to turn him into a rebel hero. Much to the delight of the assembled crowd, Luna and his co stars unveiled a final trailer for the series.

    The series presents Star Wars from a different perspective, focusing on everyday people whose lives are affected by the empire. The decisions they make have real consequences, and the stakes for them—and the galaxy—couldn’t be higher. The series debuts with three episodes on Disney+ on 21 September.

    Meanwhile, Willow is a live-action fantasy-adventure series that returns to the world of Andowyne that we first met in the 1988 feature film (directed by Ron Howard and produced by Disney Legend George Lucas). Set in a magical world where brownies, sorcerers, trolls, and other mystical creatures flourish, Willow is the story of an unlikely group of heroes who set off on a dangerous quest, facing their inner demons and coming together to save their world. An epic period fantasy told with a modern sensibility and plenty of humour and heart, Willow begins streaming on Disney+ on 30 November.

    Kennedy welcomed Dave Filoni, who shared a host of Star Wars-related announcements. First, Filoni showed a new image from the upcoming 16-episode second season of the animated series Star Wars: The Bad Batch. Months have passed since the events on Kamino, and the Bad Batch continue their journey, navigating the empire after the fall of the republic. They’ll cross paths with friends and foes, both new and familiar, as they take on a variety of thrilling mercenary missions that will take them to unexpected and dangerous new places. The series will begin streaming on Disney+ with a two-episode premiere on 4 January, 2023.

    Star Wars: Tales of the Jedi comprises six brand-new animated shorts featuring parables built around Jedi from the prequel era. Journey into the lives of two very different Jedi—Ahsoka Tano and Count Dooku—who will be tested as they make decisions that will shape their destinies. Filoni delighted the audience by sharing an official trailer for the shorts. All six shorts will debut on 26 October on Disney+.

    Filoni shared with Hall D23 how much the character of Ahsoka means to him—having crafted her story from her 2008 debut in the animated series Star Wars: The Clone Wars through her live-action debut in The Mandalorian. Ahsoka is a new live-action series heading to Disney+, starring Rosario Dawson in the title role. Set after the fall of the empire, Ahsoka follows the former Jedi knight Ahsoka Tano as she investigates an emerging threat to a vulnerable galaxy. The new series is slated for 2023 and will be exclusive to Disney+.

    Star Wars: Skeleton Crew coming soon on Disney+. Skeleton Crew tells the story of four kids who find themselves lost in the vastness of the galaxy trying to find their way home.

    Meanwhile in the third season of The Mandalorian, the Mandalorian and Grogu have been reunited and continue their journey through the lawless galaxy. Season three is set to launch exclusively on Disney+ next year.

    Marvel Studios: Marvel Studios producer, president Kevin Feige detailed several recent announcements, including the Multiverse Saga—the conclusion of Phase 4, the Phase 5 slate, and the Phase 6 titles that include “Fantastic Four” and two new “Avengers” films: “The Kang Dynasty” and “Secret Wars.”

    “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” releases in theatres on 11 November.

    Ironheart is a series that takes place after the events of “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.” The new series is slated for Disney+ in 2023.

    Feige then officially kicked off Phase five of the MCU with “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania.” Hitting theatres on 17 February 2023, the film connects to “Avengers: The Kang Dynasty,” Feige announced.

    Feige then announced Marvel Studios’ first-ever special presentation, created for this “Halloween: Werewolf by Night,” directed by music composer Michael Giacchino who Disney said is also an accomplished filmmaker. The special starts streaming on Disney+ this October 7.

    Secret Invasion is a new event series that showcases a faction of shapeshifting Skrulls who have been infiltrating earth for years.

    Loki season two picks up in the aftermath of the shocking season finale when Loki finds himself in a battle for the soul of the Time Variance Authority. The new season streams on Disney+ next year.

    Feige has also officially confirmed that Matt Shakman—who directed every episode of 2021’s WandaVision and who was in the Hall D23 audience—would be directing “Fantastic Four.” The film opens in theatres on 8 November, 2024.

    Echo is a new series. In the show Maya Lopez’ ruthless behaviour in New York City (after the events in Disney+’s “Hawkeye”) catches up with her in her hometown.

    Daredevil: Born Again is an 18-episode Disney+ series. Production has not yet started on the show.

    A movie “Captain America: New World Order,” continues Sam Wilson’s journey as Captain America and comes to theatres in 2024. “Thunderbolts” opens in theatres on 26 July, 2024.

    Finally, Feige wrapped the Marvel Studios portion by revisiting key moments in the MCU before welcoming to the stage director Nia DaCosta and The Marvels cast members Iman Vellani (Kamala Khan/Ms. Marvel), Teyonah Parris (Monica Rambeau), and Brie Larson (Carol Danvers/Captain Marvel). Fans were given a look at scenes from the new movie, which opens in theatres on 28 July, 2023.  

    20th Century Studios:  Bergman then returned to the stage to introduce—via Zoom from New Zealand—Oscar-winning producer/director Cameron, director of the upcoming “Avatar: The Way of Water.” He’s hard at work finishing the film—the highly anticipated sequel to the biggest film of all time, “Avatar”—so he couldn’t join the D23 Expo in person. But the film’s producer, Jon Landau, helped welcome returning cast members Sam Worthington (Jake Sully), Zoe Saldaña (Neytiri), Sigourney Weaver (Kiri), and Stephen Lang (Colonel Miles Quaritch)—plus new-generation cast members Jamie Flatters (Neteyam), Jack Champion (Spider), Bailey Bass (Tsireya), and Trinity Jo-Li Bliss (Tuk)—before the audience was treated to several scenes from the new film! Fans were invited to don a pair of Dolby 3D glasses (a Hall D23 first!) to get fully immersed in the brand-new footage.

  • Disney+ Hotstar to enter Thailand market on 30 June

    KOLKATA: Disney+Hostar has been a significant contributor to Walt Disney Co. (Disney)’s biggest OTT bet Disney+. Following its success in India and Indonesia, Disney+Hotstar is now rapidly expanding its footprints in the South East Asian market. Coming 30 June, the service will be operational in Thailand.

    As revealed on the official website of Disney+Hotstar Thailand, the service will be available at 799 baht a year or 99 baht per month. It will have close ties with local telecom provider AIS. For AIS customers, the service will be priced at 35 baht per month if pre-subscribed between 8-27 June with an additional one-month free service.

    Along with Thai shows, content from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic will be available for its users. Disney has entered partnerships with studios like GDH 559, Sahamongkolfilm, Kantana Group, and One 31 for a robust content library. Exclusive shows like God Bless The Trainees Too!, Extraordinary Siamese Story: Eng and Chang, movies such as Pee Mak, Friend Zone, Brother Of The Year, Laddaland, and Tom Yum Goong will be on the service.

    Disney+Hotstar entered Malaysia just a week back on 1 June. The platform struck a deal with Astro Malaysia Bhd for distribution. For its Singapore launch last year, it tied up with Starhub.

    Hotstar, which grew as an Indian OTT platform under Star India, came under the Disney umbrella after the 21st Century Fox acquisition. After Disney Plus’ launch, the parent company decided to rebrand it as Disney+Hotstar in India to leverage the existing base of consumers. Notably, Hotstar was already regarded as the biggest OTT platform after YouTube in the Indian market. As Disney+Hotstar was launched in India last April, it was soon expanded in Indonesia.

    Disney+ paid subscribers already exceeded 100 million at the end of March, Disney+Hotstar was the strongest contributor to net subscriber addition and made approximately a third of the total Disney+ subscriber base.

    Recently, the company announced that it will close 100 linear channels this year to push its direct-to-consumer strategy. A large part of the linear TV content will move to Disney+. 

  • Jon Favreau to write, produce ‘Star Wars’ for Disney’s streaming service

    Jon Favreau to write, produce ‘Star Wars’ for Disney’s streaming service

    MUMBAI: Jon Favreau, the man famous for being involved with the Iron Man (as director) and Avenger films (as executive producer), has agreed to write and act as the executive producer for the Star Wars series for Disney’s upcoming streaming service. In order to expand Disney’s market in OTT services, Star Wars is likely to play a major role.

    “I couldn’t be more excited about Jon coming on board to produce and write for the new direct-to-consumer platform,” said Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy. “Jon brings the perfect mix of producing and writing talent, combined with a fluency in the Star Wars universe. This series will allow Jon the chance to work with a diverse group of writers and directors and give Lucasfilm the opportunity to build a robust talent base.”

    This is not going to be Favreau’s first venture with Disney. He directed the first two Iron Man films for Marvel and 2016’s The Jungle Book, which won an academy award.  Besides, he was also associated with the production of several Avengers films. Currently, he is working on the production of Disney’s live-action remake of The Lion King.

    Favreau can’t wait to start the “exciting adventure”. “If you told me at 11 years old that I would be getting to tell stories in the Star Wars universe, I wouldn’t have believed you,” he told.

    Disney unveiled the plans for the series back in November. The release date of the upcoming series is not confirmed yet.

    Also Read:

    With Star India, Disney emerges as India’s largest M&E firm

    Mahesh Samat gets expanded role in Disney Asia restructure

  • Binge on your favourite movies with ‘Anthology Weekends’ on MNX

    Binge on your favourite movies with ‘Anthology Weekends’ on MNX

    Mumbai: When it comes to movies, we all have our favourites we love to binge watch! Offering its viewers their favorite movie franchise, MNX, the new age Hollywood channel for Young India from Times Network, presents a series of cult classics titled ‘Anthology Weekends’, every weekend, until March 25, 2018. Airing every Friday to Sunday @ 9p.m.,‘Anthology Weekends’ features some of the most noteworthy franchise movies of all times. From evolving into a superhero to protect your city from crime or following a life altering journey to reclaim your city from dragons to looking into a dystopian future with simulated reality, ‘Anthology Weekends’ promises uninterrupted entertainment with an eclectic mix of popular, edgy and distinctly entertaining movies, including ‘The Matrix’, ‘Star Wars’ and ‘Rush Hour’.

    Anthology Weekends movies includes:

    ‘The Matrix’ trilogy which will air from March 2- 4, is a science fiction action cult classic about heroes fighting a desperate war against machine overlords that have enslaved humanity in an extremely sophisticated virtual reality system.

    ‘Star Wars’ series is a cult favourite across all age groups will be shown over two weekends with ‘A New Hope’, ‘The Empire Strikes Back’ and ‘Return Of The Jedi’ will air from March 9- 11 and ‘The Phantom Menace’, ‘Attack Of The Clones’ and ‘Revenge Of The Sith’ airing from March 16- 18. Written and directed by George Lucas with some of Hollywood’s biggest names such as Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford and Carrie Fisher, viewers will be privy to saving the galaxy from evil forces at its very best in the ultimate cult classic ‘Star Wars’.

    ‘Rush Hour’, starring Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker who overcome cultural differences to fight crime in the American buddy cop action comedy film will air from March 23- 25.

    Cherish the most loved and legendary movie franchises of all time with MNX’s ‘Anthology Weekends’ every Friday – Sunday until 25th March

  • Star Movies and Star Movies Select HD celebrate Christmas with Star Wars fans

    Star Movies and Star Movies Select HD celebrate Christmas with Star Wars fans

    MUMBAI: Always showcasing the best in Hollywood cinema, Star Movies and Star Movies Select HD have a Christmas-eve treat lined up for its Star Wars fans. For the first time on Indian Television, Star Movies and Star Movies Select HD will air ‘Rogue One: A Star Wars Story’ on December 24, 2017 at 1 PM & 9 PM.

    Rogue One: A Star Wars Story is an all new epic adventure which is loaded with more battle action than any of its seven predecessors. Produced by LucasFilm and directed by Gareth Edwards, the story brings together a group of unlikely heroes together on a mission to steal the plans to the Death Star, the Empire’s ultimate weapon of destruction.

    Rogue One: A Star Wars Story centers on a female warrior (Felicity Jones as Jyn Erso) who is driven by destiny to take on the mightiest power in the galaxy. This key event in the Star Wars timeline brings together ordinary people who choose to do extraordinary things, and in doing so, become a part of something greater than themselves. The movie urges ordinary people to ‘Join the Hope & be a Part of the Rebellion’ to avert destruction of unprecedented scale.

    Said to be perhaps the darkest, most action-packed Star Wars instalment, director Gareth Edwards’ standalone adventure establishes its own rhythm, balancing fan demands with grand, poetic moments unlike anything this cinematic galaxy has previously achieved.

    Watch the Indian Television Premiere of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story on Star Movies and Star Movies Select HD on December 24, 1 PM & 9 PM

  • The Walt Disney South Asia promotes Amrita Pandey to lead media distribution & OTT

    The Walt Disney South Asia promotes Amrita Pandey to lead media distribution & OTT

    MUMBAI: The Walt Disney Company South Asia has elevated Amrita Pandey and appointed to the newly created role of regional head – media distribution and OTT, South Asia.

    Pandey adds management of the South East Asian (SEA) regional markets of Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines and Vietnam to her current purview of India.

    Responsible for driving all digital and OTT partnerships, content licensing and broadcast network distribution across the Indian subcontinent, and SEA, Pandey will report to The Walt Disney company EVP and MD Mahesh Samat and Walt Disney International media distribution senior VP Mark Endemaño.

    “Since joining Disney, Amrita has made a significant contribution to the business and was responsible for some of industry’s biggest theatrical releases in India. Her deep understanding of our brands and content portfolio, combined with her extensive experience in marketing and distribution, make her the ideal person to take our media business to the next level in this region,” said Samat.

    “As we continue to align our global media distribution strategies, Amrita will bring expertise from such a dynamic market as India to drive further growth across our wider South Asia business. I’m looking forward to working with her as we establish how to best work with partners, and deliver entertainment more directly to fans, throughout the region,” said Endemaño.

    Pandey joined Disney in 2012 and has held several leadership roles across studio distribution, marketing and local movie production in addition to leading the content syndication business.

    “Our media distribution team is focused on delivering world class content and experiences from Disney, Pixar, Star Wars and Marvel to consumer devices across the region. With a network of strong partnerships across platforms, I am excited to lead this transformative business to pursue digital connections everywhere,” said Pandey.

  • Star Movies & Star Movies Select HD to air Star Wars on 5 Feb

    Star Movies & Star Movies Select HD to air Star Wars on 5 Feb

    MUMBAI: The seventh episode in the Star Wars franchise, Star Wars: The Force Awakens will premiere on Star Movies this Sunday, 5 February at 1 pm and 9 pm. The Force on Star Movies & Star Movies Select HD gets stronger with this J J Abram masterpiece that will bring a smile to every Star Wars fan.

    Star Wars: The Force Awakens not only has a box office collection of over 2 billion USD but also has the distinction of being the third highest grossing Hollywood film ever. With a cast of legends and newcomers alike, the movie features stalwarts like Harrison Ford & Carrie Fisher alongside newcomers like Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Adam Driver and many more. The movie has received rave reviews from critics and fans alike reaffirming the fact that even 38 years after the release of the first movie the fandom for the series is still strong.

    Star Wars: The Force Awakens picks up 30 years after the close of the Episode VI, Star Wars: Return of the Jedi. It tells the story of a Rey who joins hands with a Stormtrooper Finn and a droid BB-8 as they continue to unravel and survive the deadly strikes of Kylo Ren.

    Star Movies has always entertained its viewers with some of the biggest blockbusters and this time with the Star Wars saga followed by the premiere of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, it has become the only destination for every Star Wars fan.

  • Star Movies & Star Movies Select HD to air Star Wars on 5 Feb

    Star Movies & Star Movies Select HD to air Star Wars on 5 Feb

    MUMBAI: The seventh episode in the Star Wars franchise, Star Wars: The Force Awakens will premiere on Star Movies this Sunday, 5 February at 1 pm and 9 pm. The Force on Star Movies & Star Movies Select HD gets stronger with this J J Abram masterpiece that will bring a smile to every Star Wars fan.

    Star Wars: The Force Awakens not only has a box office collection of over 2 billion USD but also has the distinction of being the third highest grossing Hollywood film ever. With a cast of legends and newcomers alike, the movie features stalwarts like Harrison Ford & Carrie Fisher alongside newcomers like Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Adam Driver and many more. The movie has received rave reviews from critics and fans alike reaffirming the fact that even 38 years after the release of the first movie the fandom for the series is still strong.

    Star Wars: The Force Awakens picks up 30 years after the close of the Episode VI, Star Wars: Return of the Jedi. It tells the story of a Rey who joins hands with a Stormtrooper Finn and a droid BB-8 as they continue to unravel and survive the deadly strikes of Kylo Ren.

    Star Movies has always entertained its viewers with some of the biggest blockbusters and this time with the Star Wars saga followed by the premiere of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, it has become the only destination for every Star Wars fan.