Archives for June 2016

KIARA ADVANI TO SHOOT A ROMANTIC NUMBER FOR ABBAS MUSTAN’S NEXT

Kiara Advani who is currently in Georgia shooting for Abbas Mustan’s film MACHINE will be filming for a romantic number with her co – star Mustafa. The song will be a romantic one, inspired on the lines of Romeo – Juliet and will be shot at the Batumi Art & Music Centre. Not just that, Kiara is also looking forward to sharing screen space with debutant Mustafa and feels that the actor is extremely confident about his acting prowess.

KAY KAY MENON’S NEXT FILM IS BASED ON 1975 EMERGENCY

Madhur Bhandarkar recently announced that he is all set to make his most ambitious project which will be based during the era of 1975 emergency. Whereas on one hand Madhur’s project is still in pre -production stage Pehle Aap Motion Pictures is all set to release their maiden project SAN PACHATTAR , which is based on the era of Emergency.” Emergency period lasted from June 1975 to March 1977 and is one of the darkest periods of Indian history. We learn true lessons of life only from history and I decided to make a film based on some unknown & uncovered events during the period of emergency. The style of editing & background score makes it edgy. It is a very well balanced film keeping both entertainment & sensibilities in place and will teleport you instantly to the 70’s. I remember the great Neil Armstrong quoted – a small step of man on moon and a giant leap for mankind. I would say it’s just ballsy. To do real justice to the role, who better than Kay Kay Menon. He has reinvented it and made the character more dynamic by adding his style & nuances.” says producer Kabir Lovee. It is the first true political thriller of Indian Cinema. I am happy I am a part of this film and played the most layered & myriad character of my career till date. It took me nearly 6 months to get into the skin & psyche of the character and to get the crisis right”, says Kay Kay Menon. The film’s plot revolves around a deal of the 1st mobile phone (prototype) being brought in India with emergency in the background.
BIOGRAPHICAL DOCUMENTARY ON PARAMAHANSA YOGANANDA, ‘AWAKE: THE LIFE OF YOGANANDA’ IS NARRATED BY ANUPAM KHER
The award – winning documentary, AWAKE: THE LIFE OF YOGANANDA, an unconventional biography on the life of an eminent Indian Yogi, Paramahansa Yogananda is slated for a Pan India release on 17th Jun, 2016. Narrated by Anupam Kher, the docu – feature is releasing a week ahead of the International Yoga Day, which is celebrated on 21st Jun, 2016. Yogananda, widely regarded as the Father of Yoga in the West and author of the best – selling spiritual classic “Autobiography of a Yogi” has also inspired many including the Founder of Apple, Steve Jobs, George Harrison, lead guitarist of The Beatles, the celebrated Indian musician, late Ravi Shankar & Indian superstar Amitabh Bachchan. Written & directed by Academy Award Nominated director Paola Di Florio (Home of the Brave) & Lisa Leeman (ONE LUCKY ELEPHANT) the film features interviews with George Harrison, lead guitarist of The Beatles, late Ravi Shankar, , Deepak Chopra, holistic health pioneer, Krishna Das, famous Kirtan musician etc who have found inspiration in Paramhansa’s writings and teachings. The critically acclaimed film about the East Indian mystic who brought yoga to the west in the 1920s, is produced by Peter Rade, Paola Di Florio and Lisa Leeman.

ANU AND ASHA TO CREATE MUSIC FOR BEGUM JAAN

Anu Malik & Asha Bhosle are coming together to create music for BEGUM JAAN starring Vidya Balan. The film, set in the pre – Independence era, will be directed by National Award winner Bengali director Srijit Mukherjee who is making his directorial debut in the Hindi film industry. The film Produced by Mahesh Bhatt is about the trauma of displaced women in a brothel during the time of Partition. Vidya Balan plays the Madame of the brothel. It has been more than a decade ago that Anu Malik & Asha Bhosle came together for a film and not only this, it has also been more than a decade since Vishesh Films has worked with Anu Malik or Asha Bhosle. Earlier this week, Anu Malik who was hospitalized due to cardiac arrest, met Ashaji in hospital to talk to her about the songs so that the work happens on schedule and doesn’t get delayed due to his ill health. The shoot is expected to start from mid June in Kolkata where a huge set is being erected.
NARGIS DRESSES UP IN A NAUVARI FOR BANJO!
Gear up to see Nargis Fakhri in a never seen before avatar in BANJO! The actress will be seen wearing a nauvari sari, typical Maharashtrian attire, in Eros International’s upcoming musical drama BANJO. Riteish Deshmukh plays a Maharashtrian street musician, a BANJO player, in the film and in this particular scene he dreams about Nargis in the attire as he imagines her as his wife. Costume designer Divya Gambhir designed Nargis’s nauvari look and it took her over 2 hours to get ready. The actress plays the role of Chris, a DJ, from New York. Director Ravi Jadhav says, “I always try to carry the image of Maharashtra in my cinema and in BANJO too, one shall get to see many elements of the Maharashtrian culture. I personally believe & feel that Nargis looks extremely beautiful & elegant in the sari.” BANJO, produced by Eros International and directed by Ravi Jadhav starring Riteish Deshmukh & Nargis Fakhri releases on 23rd Sept, 2016.

THE ‘TE3N’ TEAM TO FELICITATE & HONOUR FANS FOR SUBMITTING ENTRIES!

On 10th Jun, 2015, the Power of Three was unleashed as the formidable trio of exemplary actors, Amitabh Bachchan, Nawazuddin Siddiqui & Vidya Balan in a pivotal guest appearance were seen together in Ribhu Dasgupta’s emotional thriller TE3N.Amitabh Bachchan and the team had earlier launched a special initiative to involve the fans by asking them to take part in all levels of promotions like the posters, music, information, games etc!! The audience is the most integral & important aspect of the film industry and hence the makers offered a unique platform for them to give valuable feedback, opinion, ideas, thoughts regarding the film. There were multiple options for the audience to take part in the ‘Te3n it around’ campaign, like creating the posters for TE3N, choosing the 1st song they want to hear / see, choosing what kind of a game they want to play!! With the campaign garnering an overwhelmingly phenomenal response with entries from all over India, they have an exciting way of felicitating and thanking the fans who have taken part! The ‘TE3N’ Team will fly down selected winners from all corners of India, and have a special meet & greet with the star – cast & crew! They will also showcase the winning posters and other creative entries on a public platform for all of India to see! Lucky fans will get to see their vision & ideas get appreciated by the team in Mumbai, and have other surprises in store for them as well.
CELEBRITY CLÁSICO 2016 PITS VIRAT KOHLI AGAINST ABHISHEK BACHCHAN

Virat Kohli Foundation has joined hands with Abhishek Bachchan’s “Playing for Humanity” to hold a charity football match. The Celebrity Clásico 2016 (an initiative by Cornerstone Sport & GS Worldwide Entertainment) took place at the Mumbai Football Arena, Andheri Sports Complex, on 4th Jun, 2016 at 7 pm. The primary objective of this endeavour is to generate funds for the foundations’ charitable initiatives. A one – of – its – kind football match was played between All Heart Football Club – an initiative by Cornerstone Sport (Bunty Sajdeh) and All Stars Football Club – an initiative by GS Worldwide Entertainment (Bunty Walia). The match was tie and Virat Kohli was declared man of the match.

INDIA KIDS FASHION WEEK 2016 TAKES OFF ON A GRAND NOTE IN MUMBAI
The much – awaited 4th edition of India Kids Fashion Week (IKFW) is here and the event kicked off to a fabulous start at Phoenix Market City, Mumbai. The fashion extravaganza, in association with MAX, saw dozens of kids sashay the ramp full of style & confidence. The 1st day of IKFW saw creations showcased by MAX, MY LITTLE PIGGY, MINI ME, VARSHA SHOWERING TRENDS, KIRTI RATHORE, 612 LEAGUE, AZ COUTURE & GAP KIDS. Day 1 of the fun – filled fashion event witnessed the crème –de – la – crème of glitz & glamour industry, including ace designers & celebrities grace the event. Day 1 of IKFW 2016 Mumbai edition drew cheers from the lively crowd. The audience at the show applauded for the mini style icons as they sashayed down the ramp in lively, exuberant clothes styled with trendy footwear & quirky accessories. The show started off with leading apparel brand MAX showcasing some cool summer wear, based on the theme Save the Environment. The inspiration for the collection was derived from surfing, street skating, varsity & cityscape. As for boys, THE JUNGLE BOOK inspired tees were a special release at the ramp show. Payal Ashar’s MY LITTLE PIGGY saw kids strut their stuff with charm & elegance. Not only kids, moms too got an opportunity to walk the ramp. Popular TV child artiste Ruhanika Dhawan was the showstopper and she looked like an absolute princess in her flowing white gown. MINI ME by Vandana Vinod, children’s clothing brand introduced 4 themes running through their concept In HIGH SPIRIT. FIRE FLIES, DESI POP, FLOWER POWER & GLAM MINI GIRLS were the themes & the entire collection stood out for its peppy bright colours. Tele artiste Nausheen Ali Sardar sizzled on the ramp in a purple gown. Anita Hasanandani graced the ramp with the kids for the brand VARSHA SHOWERING TRENDS. The brand showcased an exquisite display of the culture of Rajasthan through its collection. Like last year at IKFW, designer Kirti Rathore’s love for the desert state of India was evident at this edition too. From playful embroideries to a riot of colours the Rajasthani – inspired collection, the designer gave a lot of attention to the detailing of the kids favourite pom – pom laces on the edges and made use of creative handmade spiral cloth buttons. It was Serbian model Natasa Stankovic & tele artiste Nandish Sandhu who graced the ramp in Kirti’s collections. From winter wear, casual wear party wear, kids looked adorable in the collections put up by 612 League as they walked the ramp in ensembles with exquisite prints, asymmetric patterns & delicate details that stood out in style. The ramp show by the brand stole the limelight for the impromptu birthday celebration of its showstopper and BAJRANGI BHAIJAAN star kid Harshaali Malhotra! In her pink and white gown, Harshaali was the epitome of cuteness on the ramp. Celebrating Native American creativity as well as exhibiting fashion with the fact of native culture’s existence was AZ Couture. All the garments were designed with a twist and new materials. Ace choreographer Ahmad Khan looked dapper as he walked the ramp with his 2 kids. The finale of the evening was a show by GAP Kids. Artiste Juhi Parmar walked the ramp along with her daughter. The summer 2016 collection by the brand highlighted optimistic American style, highly inspired by beach culture. Manoj Mahla, Director, Craftworld Events said, “This edition we saw brands and designers come up with out-of-the ordinary concepts. The designers put their best foot forward by showcasing fresh and creative collections and their presentation caught the eye of buyers and celebs alike. We are looking forward to setting more trends in kidswear over the next two days.” Deepak Choudhary, Director & CEO, Event Capital, said, “The first day was a huge success. The brands and designers put in a lot of thought to create functional yet stylish apparel for the juinors. We were amazed to see kids walk the ramp with great confidence and attitude. In the next two days, we expect to make this event the most splendid celebration of kids’ fashion in India.”

DELEGATION FROM BIHAR MEETS IFTDA IN MUMBAI

A delegation from Bihar met film Producers & Directors in Mumbai at a press meet organized by IFTDA (Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association) in a bid to promote the state as a potential destination for film shoots and to give regional cinema and local talent a boost.
The government’s representatives present were Shiv Chandra Ram, Minister of Art & Culture, Shri Chaitanya Prasad, Principal Secretary to Minister, Art & Culture department, Shri Ganga Kumar, Managing Director, Bihar State Film Development & Finance Corporation, Shri Vinay kumar, Principal Secretary to Minister, Art & Culture, Shishir Sinha, Development commissioner & Vinod Anupam, renowned Film Critic.
“It appeared best that the people who will work together meet face – to – face to discuss the hurdles and the possibilities”, said Shri Ganga Kumar. “The plan is not only to give rebate but to ensure an environment to promote films & industrial growth. We are also planning to do at least 5 festivals related to films in Bihar”, he added. While few filmmakers spoke about how local films will have to be made well and promoted to create a global platform for them, filmmaker Sudhir Mishra pointed that Freedom to make films, Security, Tax benefits & single window clearance is what they would be looking at while planning to shoot films in Bihar.
He also said that people at lower level would have to be sensitized to create a positive environment for filmmakers to go and shoot their films in Bihar. Arts & culture Minister, Shri Shiv Chandra Ram said that filmmakers from many countries like Philippines & Pakistan have come to Bihar to explore possibilities to shoot their films and they have all been given a warm welcome. We will ensure we take all the steps in right direction to put Bihar on global map. Priyanka Chopra is producing a Bhojpuri film and her team has already got in touch with us. We will see to it that they go back with a nice experience from our state and that will encourage more filmmakers to associate with Bihar. He concluded. Ashoke Pandit promised that a team of dedicated members will facilitate a meeting between the delegation & filmmakers in Mumbai for working on these policies to make Bihar a more viable place for filmmakers not only for shooting purposes but also for various cultural exchange programmes.

SUNNY LEONE SIZZLES IN ‘LUV U ALIA’

Sunny Leone will be soon seen in a brief role in a romantic – drama film titled LUV U ALIA. The movie will be releasing on 17th Jun, 2016 and Sunny will be seen grooving to a special song along with a young actor. The song titled “Kamakshi” sees Sunny Leone in a fun & quirky avatar dancing away to the tune. The makers have released few sizzling pictures of Sunny Leone from the movie which definitely are a treat to the eyes. LUV U ALIA, which features Ravichandran, Sangeetha Chauhan & Bhumika Chawla in the lead roles, also has actor Kiccha Sudeep in a cameo.

AJAY DEVGN OVERCOMES HIS FEAR OF HEIGHTS IN SHIVAAY
There is no doubt about the fact that Ajay Devgn’s fans are waiting with bated breath for his magnum opus SHIVAAY which releases this Diwali. The film has all the ingredients of a wholesome entertainer – be it exotic locations, high octane stunts and a deep emotional connect. What’s more is that the actor battled intense hypothermia while shooting at the Vihren Peak in the Pirin Mountains of Bansko in Bulgaria, where temperatures were minus 19 degrees Celsius. Though the actor is himself scared of heights, he decided to go the extra mile to perform the stunts himself as he wanted the scenes to look visually breathtaking. Once the scenes were taken, the entire team including Devgn felt it worth the risk to overcome his fear and take the plunge, literally! Now that’s home grown dedication for you!

SOFIA HAYAT REVEALS WHY SHE TURNED INTO A NUN, DISPLAYS SILICONE IMPLANTS REMOVED FROM BREASTS

Ever since her transformation into Gaia Mother Sofia, Hollywood model –turned – nun Sofia Hayat has been criticising the use of makeup and even said that she will never have sex or get married. She said in an Instagram post, “We are beautiful without make – up, hair colour, fashion, we are perfect as we are.” Now, Sofia has apologised to her fans for her ‘previous life’ as a model. Speaking to media, Sofia said, “I apologise to my fans and anybody who found me beautiful with make – up & implants. 3 weeks ago, I had my implants removed.” Sofia said in an earlier interview that she will never have sex, get married or have children. When asked if she considers having sex or getting married wrong, Sofia said, “The problem is media promotes sexual promiscuity. There is nothing wrong with making love. I say, make love and connect to your bodies. I will not marry or have sex or have children as I need to save myself for my children earth. I am the Holy Mother Gaia Mother Sofia. She further said, “Unfortunately, women start believing that showing sexy, curvy body is freedom. The truth, however, is that media all media organisations across the world are directly or indirectly controlled by men. So what we thought was freedom, was just a man’s view of how a woman should look. That is some freedom!” Sofia was in tears when she spoke of her visit to Egypt. She is India to support different NGO’S and want to go to draught affected areas in Maharashtra. She will not promote her film SIX X .

US BASED NRI SWATANTRA GOEL (SAVI) ANNOUNCE HIS FIRST MOVIE ‘ASHLEY’

US based NRI Swatantra Goel (Savi) who is on the crest of a wave now, has jumped on the production bandwagon. He always tried out experimenting with different genres. Savi Goel always wants to produce a good Bollywood film, now he enters in Bollywood and making a class film. Recently he launched his production house Saveena Creation in Mumbai and announced his 1st Bollywood venture staring actress Gurleen Chopra, Actor Rishi Bhutani & Shakti Kapoor which is getting shot presently. Swatantra Goel said, “Its great pleasure for me to announce my production house name and my 1st movie in Bollywood. I was looking for a nice script to fulfil my passion of making some class movies in Bollywood. Finally a great Bollywood writer Mir Muneer met me and narrated the story to me. But I wanted to give a Hollywood touch to this romantic thriller. Then I started working on its screen play & dialogue myself for 4 – 5 months at a stretch and brought it to its present exciting form, with active participation from story writer Mir Muneer. Then I started looking for best artists and technicians within my budget and soon wrapped up a great team.” When asked, Savi Goel revealed his further plans to keep making crispy & entertaining movies in future continuously, by retaining most of the same crew, as it is like a family to him.

THIS WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY, DIA MIRZA HAS MESSAGE FOR YOU!

The actress, in association with Culture Machine’s digital channel “Whack”, urges everyone inculcate the 5R’s in our lives to protect Mother Earth. Our Mother Nature is suffering and we are the culprits! Sounds relatable? If not, watch this cool video by Culture Machine’s Digital Channel ‘Whack’ featuring actor & environmentalist Dia Mirza alongside host, Freshia B. This World Environment Day, Culture Machine has released a much needed video titled A MESSAGE FROM OUR MOTHER where the actor is spreading a message on behalf of Mother Nature on what pollution and greed of us, human beings, are doing to her and how can we bring about a change. In the video, Dia urges us to inculcate the 5 Rs – Reuse, Reduce, Recycle, Repair & Refuse avoidable waste – in our daily lives through a silent video. The extremely simple & double solutions mentioned in the video only require little dedication at our end. Speaking about the video, Dia said, “The only way to save ourselves, the human kind, is by protecting Mother Nature. We are accelerating the rate of climate change with each passing day and leaving humongous amount of carbon footprint with our lifestyle decisions. At this very moment, we all need to slow down and take some strong and definitive steps towards reversing the damage we are causing to our beautiful earth. Adds host & actor, Freisha, “We hope the message that we are trying to put forth through this video by Culture Machine is heard of and well spread. By making small changes in our lifestyle, we can go a long way together in restoring the beauty of our planet.” Environmental activist & Founder of Sanctuary Asia, Bittu Sahgal has also contributed to the powerful script of the video. Provoking us to listen to Mother Earth’s cries, this video is definitely more than just a must watch, it’s also a must do!

ROHIT PATHAK STARING BAROMAS RELEASING ON 17TH JUN, 2016

Around the time Vidarbha’s farm crisis had caught the attention of the national media, a Marathi writer had penned a novel on the subject that eventually won the Sahitya Academy award. The 2004 novel, BAROMAS, has now been made into a 110 – minute feature film in Hindi by Dheeraj Meshram, a young director hailing from the region. The film features actors such as Benjamin Gilani, Seema Biswas, Rohit Pathak, Devika Daftardar, Jatin Goswami & Subrat Dutta and has been shot entirely in Vidarbha. Actor Rohit Pathak most awaited movie BAROMAS is going to release on 17th Jun, Rohit Pathak is playing one of the key characters in the film as a Fisherman. Rohit Pathak last release was KHEL TOH AB SHURU HOGA where his character was appreciated by Bollywood & critics. BAROMAS is the story of 2 farmer brothers, who take up the issue in contrasting ways. While it is the story of a farmer and his family entwined with conflicts, confusions & compassion, it looks at a much larger picture. The film also shows how a family copes with the situation in Vidarbha region. It also touches larger issues of corruption, unemployment, methods of farming & farmers’ suicides amidst harsh socio – economic conditions through the story of one family.
EROS INTERNATIONAL TO RELEASE MALAYALAM COMEDY ‘HAPPY WEDDING’ ACROSS INDIA
Following the successful release of Malayalam movie, HAPPY WEDDING on 20th May, 2016 in Kerala, Eros International, the leading global company in the Indian film entertainment, released the romantic comedy across the rest of the country on 10th Jun, 2016. The hit comedy starring Soubin Shahir, Sharafudeen, Siju Wilson and others, directed by debutante Omar Lulu, opened to favourable reviews and good collections across Kerala. Encouraged by its enormous success & popular appeal, especially among the youth, Eros has planned the film’s release across India. HAPPY WEDDING narrates the story of Hari (Siju Wilson), a Civil Engineering graduate and revolves around the funny twists & turns that occur during the course of Hari’s wedding.
ADHYAYAN SUMAN & SARA LOREN STARRER MOVIE ‘ISHQ CLICK’ RELEASING ON 22ND JULY 2016.

The makers of Adhyayan Suman & Sara Loren starrer movie ISHQ CLICK ,have confirmed that the ambitious project will be releasing on 22nd JULY, 2016. ISHQ CLICK is a musical love story, that has Adhyayan Suman playing an ambitious photographer & Sara Loren plays a super model. Adhyayan Suman has gone at lengths to perfect himself for the role. He considers it as one of his most ambitious projects till date. During the course of the movie, Adhyayan & Sara shot the movie in Darjeeling & Mumbai. The movie also stars popular theatre actress Sanskkriti Jain. It is produced by Ajay Jaiswal & Satish Tripathi under the Algol Films banner. ISHQ CLICK is directed by Anil Ballani. Producer Satish – Ajay have also composed the music for the film. Ankit Tiwari, Neeti Mohan, Mohammed Irfan, Shalmali Kholgade, Anamika Singh, Ajay Jaiswal, Avinash Singh, Amanat Ali Khan, Madhuri Pandey, Sameera Koppikar & Hricha Narayan have crooned for the movie. Big Curtains Media Pvt Ltd will be releasing the film worldwide.
ULTRA GROUP’S YOU TUBE CHANNELS CROSSES 2 MILLION SUBSCRIBERS AND 2 BILLION VIEWS

Ultra Group across its 20 channels offers a wide variety of entertaining content across various genres to its visitors. Ranging from full live movies, movie scenes, TV shows, songs, melodies, devotional music, Jokes, entertainment news and many more. Ultra Movie Parlour: Offers an array of blockbusters like Indra Kumar’s: DIL, BETA, MANN, Pahlaj Nihalini’s: AANKHEN, SHOLA AUR SHABNAM. Vipul Shah’s: SING IS KING, NAMASTEY LONDON. Padmalaya’s: HIMMATWALA, MAWAALI. Guru Dutts : PYASSA, KAAGAZ KE PHOOL, SAHEB BIBI GULAM. N Chandra’s TEZAB, NARSIMHA and many many more. The Channel also showcases Black and white to coloured classics like HALF TICKET, CHORI CHORI, DIL TERA DEEWANA and many more. Ultra Hindi offers short entertaining films scenes which are the highlights like special moments, dialogues, comedy and action scenes of various films. This channel also includes melodious music composed & sung by Ghulam Ali and other versatile singers. Children’s can watch yesteryears popular TV series like SHAKTIMAAN (1st Indian Superhero), RAJA AUR RANCHO and many more Ultra Marathi: For the theatre lovers it has well known Marathi plays like SHRIMANT DAMODAR PANT, JAU BAI JORAT and many more. It also showcases Marathi films & TV serials.

PARINEETI CHOPRA NAMED BRAND AMBASSADOR FOR SUGAR FREE

Sugar Free, the market leader in the sugar substitute category in India has signed Bollywood actor Parineeti Chopra as its brand ambassador. As part of its new brand campaign, the actor will be seen in a new television commercial that goes on air across GECs & News channels in the country. Sugar Free has also taken a step forward to reinvent itself and position the brand as a healthy alternate to direct consumption of sugar. The brand’s new tagline – Smartness Waali Sweetness – is aimed at attracting the audience to make a healthy choice of giving up sugar while continuing to retain sweetness.”Parineeti Chopra has been the talk of the town with her recent transformation from a bubbly girl – next -door persona to becoming the poster-girl for fitness. She is the new youth icon to relate with when it comes to being fit; a true embodiment of the brand’s philosophy of bringing in a fitter lifestyle”. Parineeti Chopra said “I am excited to be a part of this journey. I have always had a sweet tooth and can totally relate to how difficult it can be for someone to give up on sugar. It’s great how Sugar Free can help one to be off sugar but not sweetness. Healthy foods are not the only option. Making a healthy choice consciously helps. Even during my weight loss transition, I fulfilled all my cravings just by opting for some smarter choices. Sugar Free was a natural fit for me to associate with and I took up the opportunity at the first instance. I haven’t given up on my indulgences. Just made some smart moves!”

ANIL KAPOOR TURNS THE SPOTLIGHT ON CHILD LABOUR

Anil Kapoor will front a new campaign that brings much needed attention to child labour in India. One of the world’s fastest growing economies, India is home to the largest population of child laborers in the world. The actor, who is the Goodwill Ambassador for child rights organization Plan India, will campaign for the NGO’s new initiative to raise awareness and inspire action to pull millions of children out of all forms of labor. “Every morning over 8 million children in India go to work instead of going to school. Our economic progress loses a lot of meaning if hundreds of thousands of children have no hopes of a future,” said Kapoor addressing the media in Mumbai to mark the International Day Against Child Labor, which is commemorated on 12th Jun, 2016. Kapoor added: “Having been associated with Plan India all these years, we’ve been able to improve the lives of over a million children and their families. But there is still a long way to go, and one resounding imperative – child labor & exploitation must end. We are all responsible for coming generations and the world we leave to them. It is time our movement became everybody’s movement.” Kapoor also unveiled an exhibition documenting the lives of children in difficult circumstances at the Atrium, High street Phoenix.

NETFLIX STREAMS MUSIC SPECIAL THE PASSION OUTSIDE US

Netflix had secured worldwide distribution rights to The Passion, a live TV musical event narrated by Tyler Perry about the final hours of Jesus Christ’s life, following Fox’s US broadcast Sun. The Passion aired on Fox on 2Oth Mar, 2O16 (Palm Sun), 8 – 10 pm ET live / PT delayed. On 22nd Mar, 2016 the special was available on Netflix internationally with the exception of Netherlands, where the format originated. The special aired in Netherlands on 25th Mar, 2016. Netflix acquired the rights to the special from Dick Clark Productions. Under the deal, it has streaming rights for 13 months for non – US territories. In the States, Fox is offering replays of The Passion to authenticated users of pay – TV partners. The Passion, written by Peter Barsocchini, tells the story of Christ from the “Last Supper” to his “Crucifixion” & “Resurrection”, set in the modern day. The 2 hour special features music sung by the cast and arranged by executive producer Adam Anders and will be shot at 9 locales in New Orleans before an audience of more than 25,000. Gospel singer Yolanda Adams kicked off the show with a special performance. The Passion cast members include Cuban -American singer Jencarlos Canela (Jesus Christ), Chris Daughtry (Judas), Prince Royce (Peter), Seal (Pontius Pilate), Trisha Yearwood (Mary, the mother of Jesus) and Christian singer/song writer Michael W. Smith as one of Jesus’ disciples. The Passion is produced by Dick Clark Productions; original concept creator Eye2Eye Media, whose production of The Passion has been Holland’s highest – rated live musical television event annually since 2011; and Anders Media.

FLAGSHIP ENTERTAINMENT UNVEILS 12 CHINA MOVIES

Flagship Entertainment, the joint venture between Warner Bros., China Media Capital & broadcaster TVB, unveiled its first 12 movie projects to be made in China. Titles include: Crater, Chinese Wall Street, a Chinese remake of Miss Congeniality & Mission Milano & $150 million budget actioner MEG. The announcement was made in Hong Kong on Wed with Flagship’s topper Richard Fox, Warner’s Kevin Tsujihara & CMC’s Li Ruigang in attendance. The company was established last year with its legal headquarters in Hong Kong. Its mandate is both local & international. “We want Flagship to make high quality Hong Kong & Chinese films of every genre, for audiences around the world,” said Tsujihara, on Wed. “Flagship’s structure will be open to young film makers.” Also in attendance at the launch event were: film maker Andrew Lau; Dede Nickerson, the former Sony & Warner Bros. executive who now heads CMC’s in – house production operation Infinity Pictures; Christopher Bremble, CEO of Beijing based visual effects & production company BaseFX; producer Terence Chang; director Wong Jing; Media Asia owner Peter Lam; director/producer Wong Pak -Ming; producer Paco Wong; actor – director Stephen Fung; superstar actor -singer Andy Lau & Emperor group chairman Albert Yeung.

LINSEY NAMED AS THE DIRECTOR OF PRODUCTION DIVISION

The UK public broadcaster BBC has named Mark Linsey as the director of its in -house production division, BBC Studios. Linsey has been acting director of BBC Television since Oct, 2015 and spent more than 2 decades working in TV production before joining BBC, including roles at Central, LWT, Hat Trick Productions & Tiger Aspect. He was appointed as the BBC’s controller, entertainment commissioning in 2009 and was responsible for programs including Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Road Show The Apprentice, Strictly Come Dancing & Graham Norton’s chat show on BBC One. In 2013, he also took on the role of deputy director of television. Tony Hall, BBC Director – General, said: “Mark Linsey is an exceptional program maker & a 1st class leader who makes things happen and gets the very best out of those who work around him. That combination is vital if BBC is to continue with the phenomenal run of critical & audience success, we are seeing with our program making. We are on a high and Mark is the right person to build on that success. He’s a real talent and the perfect choice for this role.”

WOLF HALL LEADS NOMINATIONS RACE FOR BAFTA TV AWARDS

Wolf Hall leads the race for the British Academy of Film & Television Arts’ Television Craft Awards, which honors the best behind – the – scenes talent working in UK television. The historical drama, in Mark Rylance plays the ambitious Thomas Cromwell during the reign of English King Henry VIII, leads the way with 6 nominations. It is nominated in the costume design, editing (fiction), make – up & hair design, photography & lighting (fiction), sound (fiction), & writer (drama) categories. It is followed closely, with 4 nominations, by Fortitude, the Arctic – set psychological thriller, magical fantasy Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell & espionage drama London Spy. The Sound of Music Live!, adapted from the musical theater production and filmed live in a studio, received 3 nominations, as does This is England ’90, the final chapter in Shane Meadows’ spin – off from his 2006 film of the same name.

GLOBAL ADVERTISING SPEND TO RISE 4.6% to $579 BILLION IN 2016

Global advertising expenditure is on course to grow 4.6% to $579 billion this year, up from 3.9% growth last year, media research agency Zenith Optimedia reported Mon. Its optimism is driven by the prospect of 3 special events this year, rapid recovery from the markets most affected by the eurozone crisis, and the emergence of fast – growing markets that are opening up to international advertising. “Rapid growth from countries that are relatively new to the international advertising market, combined with a resurgence of established markets that were damaged by the financial crisis, will keep the global ad market on track for healthy growth for at least the next few years,” said Jonathan Barnard, head of forecasting at ZenithOptimedia. Special events boosting ad expenditure this year include US residential election, the Summer Olympics & UEFA soccer championship in Europe.

3 MOVIES AMONGST WINNERS AT EMPIRE AWARDS

The Revenant won “Best Film” at Empire Awards in London, but it was Star Wars: The Force Awakens that ruled overall, taking 5 prizes, including “Best director” for J. J. Abrams, “Best Visual Effects, “Best Sci – Fi / Fantasy” & “Best Male” & “Best Female” newcomer for stars John Boyega & Daisy Ridley, who were both present to accept their trophies. Mad Max: Fury Road was close behind with 4 awards, including “Best Soundtrack”, “Best Costume Design”, “Best Make – up & Hairstyling” & “Best Production Design. Amongst the stars honoured at the ceremony were Matt Damon, who was in attendance to receive the “Best Actor” award for his performance in The Martian. Director Paul Greengrass, who has recently reunited with Damon on the upcoming Jason Bourne, presented the award to him on stage. Alicia Vikander was crowned “Best Actress” for The Danish Girl. Spectre won “Best British Film” & “Best Thriller” with the awards collected by director Sam Mendes. 3 honorary awards were bestowed by Empire: British actor -director Paddy Considine was presented with the Empire Inspiration award by long time collaborator & friend Shane Meadows & actor Stanley Tucci was named Empire Hero. Miranda Richardson, currently filming Churchill with Tucci, presented him with the award in recognition of his recent performances in high – profile films including the “Hunger Games” series & Spotlight. The late Alan Rickman was posthumously named this year’s Empire Legend by editor – in – chief of Empire Terri White and news editor Chris Hewitt, who commented on stage: “This is a heartfelt tribute from the Empire staff to an actor who touched us all with his extraordinary career.” Inside Out won for “Best Animation”, Amy for “Best Documentary” & The Big Short for “Best Screenplay”. “Best Horror Film” went to The Hallow & “Best Comedy Film” was awarded to Spy. The award for TV series, presented this year for the 1st time ever, went to This Is England ’90. Series director & co – writer Shane Meadows collected the award, alongside cast members Thomas Turgoose, Jo Hartley & Chanel Cresswell.

MOVIE THEATER OWNERS CLAIM SCREENING ROOM POSES MASSIVE RISK

The UK Cinema Association, which represents British movie theater owners, said Fri Screening room represents “a massive risk” to the industry. In a statement, the association said: “The Screening Room represents a massive risk to the future prosperity not only of this association’s members and their counterparts in other territories, but also of colleagues across the wider film industry.” The organization, which represents 90% of UK cinema operators, added: “It is difficult to envisage how this proposal, if adopted, could do anything other than present an unprecedented opportunity for film piracy while at the same time damaging the foundations of a cinema business which remains the key driver of revenue for the entire business.” The statement continued: “The cinema experience represents not only over 40% of total film revenues, but also generates ‘word of mouth’ marketing which benefits every other subsequent platform. This proposal would therefore inevitably lead to a loss in the overall income for the film industry. Screening Room, the brainchild of entrepreneurs Sean Parker & Prem Akkaraju, offers movies for $50 at the same time as they open in theaters.

WALDAU – ORTON – GLAU TO ATTEND COMIC CON

Game Of Thrones Kingslayer Nikolaj Coster -Waldau, WWE superstar Randy Orton & cult sci – fi actress Summer Glau are amongst the new names added to a high – profile rooster of guests recruited to attend the 5th Middle East Film & Comic Con to be held in Dubai from 7th Apr, 2016 to 9th Apr, 2016. They join previously announced Dead Pool co – creator Fabian Nicieza, veteran sci – fi & fantasy pics star Christopher Lloyd & Stan Lee, who created pretty much every major superhero in the Marvel Universe. Lee will appear in a live link – up from LA. Also making the trek to the growing event billed as the leading pop culture festival in the Middle East is prolific screen writer Max Landis who penned the script for hot upcoming Will Smith pic Bright. And American comic book writer & artist Whilce Portico, known for titles such as The Punisher, Uncanny X – Men, Iron Man, Wetworks” & Spawn. Landis who is a Dubai Comic Con aficionado, is also the author of DC Comics 7 episode comic book series Superman: American Alien, about how Clark Kent became the archetypal super hero known as Superman.

CATCHPLAY LAUNCHES ASIAN MOVIE STREAMING SERVICE

Taiwan based film distributor & producer,
Catchplay is launching a video streaming service that it hopes will take on rival platforms in Asia and reverse piracy. Its Catchplay On Demand service launches initially in Taiwan, with Singapore & Indonesia set to follow in the 2nd quarter of the year. The company, which through a deal with New Regency, is one of the financiers of The Revenant, says the new service has a mix of content that has more new releases than rival platforms and delivers them quicker. It will be available in transactional video on demand & subscription VoD modes. “In recent years, Catchplay has quietly & purposefully expanded its business from theatrical distribution to film financing & production, aggregating digital content for many leading digital platforms and the operation of our own movie channel,” said Harvey Chang, Catchplay chairman in a statement.

DISCOVERY & NOS INK OLYMPIC GAMES DEAL
Dutch broadcaster NOS has secured TV & multiplatform broadcast rights to 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games from Discovery Communications. The pact will allow NOS to sub – licence the rights from Discovery, which owns Eurosport and holds exclusive multimedia rights to Olympic Games for 50 countries & territories in Europe through 2024. As such, NOS viewers will gain access to both 2018 Pyeong Chang & 2020 Tokyo Games across multiple platforms. Eurosport, meanwhile, retains exclusive live rights to 2018 & 2020 Olympic Games, including ice hockey for 2018 Pyeong Chang Olympic Winter Games. NOS will be able to broadcast the highlights. Through this agreement with NOS,Discovery aims to expand viewership for Olympic Games across an unprecedented number of screens & digital products in Europe.

BERLUSCONI CONFIRMS TALKS BETWEEN MEDIASET & VIVENDI

Silvio Berlusconi on Mon confirmed that talks are under way between his Mediaset group & French media giant Vivendi to forge an alliance in content creation but denied more far – ranging discussions, downplaying speculation in Italian press about a possible outright purchase by Vivendi of his entire TV empire. “Vivendi is very interested in Italy,” Berlusconi told Italian radio RTL 102.5. “I’ve been friends with Bollore for years, and he has shown interest in some of the things we do, absolutely not an interest in acquiring Mediaset, but in our ability to make products for TV, in varied formats. Vivendi has a vision for the future of Europe, and it is possible we shall find means to collaborate,” the former Italian prime minister went on to say. Vivendi chairman Vincent Bollore is clearly eying Italy as a key plank of his expansion plan. He recently raised Vivendi’s stake in Italian telco Telecom Italia to 24.9%, forcing its Italian CEO Marco Patuano to resign on Mon.

TF1 AQCUIRES LICENSING RIGHTS TO THE SMURFS

French commercial network group TF1 has acquired licensing rights to The Smurfs brand for France and is prepping varied events such as a musical show and an exhibit. The deal was inked between TF1 Licences & Véronique Culliford’s IMPS. Both companies have worked before. TF1 Video has been a partner of IMPS for the last 10 years. Besides TF1 Video, The Smurfs has so far attracted about 700 partners, including Le Lombard, Dupuis, Hachette, De Agostini – Altaya, Panini, PEZ, Chupa Chups, Ferrero, Haribo, McDonald’s, Delacre, Oreo, H & M, Zara, Benetton, Women’s Secret, MegaBrands, Ubisoft, Capcom & Tesco. “We are happy & proud to collaborate with TF1 Licences, an experimented & audacious agent with a large experience in exploiting classic brands. We’ll be able to create synergies with the brands within the different divisions of the group, said Culliford, the daughter of The Smurfs creator Pierre Culliford aka Peyo.

KERING & CANNES FILM FESTIVAL LAUNCH 2ND PROGRAM

François – Henri Pinault’s Kering, one of world’s most powerful luxury companies, is partnering up again with Cannes Film Festival to roll out 2nd edition of their Women in Motion program. Women in Motion has been developed jointly by Kering & Cannes to highlight women’s achievements in film and encourage more diversity within the industry. The program will keep the same format, featuring a series of recorded talks with high – profile talent & executives. As part of the Women in Motion initiative, 2 awards will be handed out during a gala dinner hosted during the festival on 15th May, 2016, with Cannes’ artistic director Thierry Fremaux & president Pierre Lescure in attendance, along with jury members and other high – profile guests. Last year’s Women in Motion honorees were Jane Fonda & Megan Ellison. The idea behind the awards is to celebrate a talent or industry player who has either served as a role model to other women and / or whose career choices have allowed women to shine whether in front or behind the camera. A 2nd award will be given to an up & coming talent, director or producer. The 69th Cannes Film Festival will take place from 11th May, 2016 to 22nd May, 2016.