Amruta Subhash takes lessons In Kannada. And Veteran actresses Jayshree & Uma Kulkarni help Amruta to learn Kannada.

An actress goes through all that’s required for the betterment of her role and actress Amruta Subhash is one of them. This actress who has already had an impressive career in Marathi Cinema has learnt Kannada as a prep for her role in Astu from veteran actress B. Jayashree and has also won the National Award for her role in this film.

This film produced under the banner of Gaurikaa Films with producers Sheela Rao & Dr. Mohan Agashe has been released this week all over Maharashtra . Along with Dr. Mohan Agashe, this film also stars Irawati Harshe, Devika Daftardar, Amruta Subhash, Nachiket Purnputre, Milind Soman, et al. The film has a story by Sumitra Bhave and is directed by Sumitra Bhave & Sunil Sukhtankar. Amruta Subhash has essayed the role of a Mahuta’s wife Chenamma and has worked with an elephant named Laxmi in the film for which she undertook a workshop to learn the nuances of the role.

The character of Chenamma has a influence of Marathi & Kannada and a lot of dialogues are in Kannada she avers, “I just didn’t want to mug the dialogues in Kannada as I also wanted to learn the meaning of these dialogues in Kannada. Therefore I took the help of veteran translators Uma and Virupaksh Kulkarni and learnt the nuances of the Kannada dialogues from my veteran actor – mother Jyoti Subhash friend actress B. Jayashree and she really took a liking for my role and came down to Pune and I recorded her version of the dialogues and learnt the nuances of the Kannada dialogues and there are also two lullabys which B. Jayshree & Uma taught me, which have been added in the film. My role in the film is small says Amruta but it changed my way of looking at life. The film scenario & the script has been written so well that I enjoyed working in this film and its an experience I will cherish all my life.” concludes Amruta.

Eros International’s Trinity Pictures announces 2 Indo – Chinese co -productions with leading Chinese film companies, Peacock Mountain Culture & Media Ltd & Huaxia Film Distribution Co Ltd. These films will be directed by Kabir Khan & Siddharth Anand and released in Fiscal 2018

Eros International Media Ltd, a leading global company in the Indian film entertainment industry, announced recently that Trinity Pictures, India’s 1st franchise feature film studio, is planning 2 landmark Indo – China co – productions to be released in Fiscal 2018. Kabir Khan’s travel drama THE ZOOKEEPER (working title) & Siddharth Anand’s cross – cultural romantic comedy LOVE IN BEIJING (working title). The films will co -produced with China’s Peacock Mountain Culture & Media Ltd & Huaxia Film Distribution Co Ltd.

The 2 films are the 1st ever Indo – China co – productions set in both India & China and will have Han Sanping, former Chairman of China Film Group, as their Creative Producer. Sanping has produced more than 300 films & 100 TV series, including RED CLIFF, KARATE KID & LET THE BULLET FLY.

With the cast from both India & China, a leading Indian male actor and leading Chinese actress, Kabir Khan’s human drama, THE ZOOKEEPER, tells the journey of an Indian zoo keeper to China to find a panda to return to India in order to save his zoo. Siddharth Anand’s cross – cultural romantic comedy, LOVE IN BEIJING, also with an A – lister Indian actress & leading Chinese male actor is based on an Indian girl who falls in love with a Chinese man. Production costs for THE ZOOKEEPER by Kabir Khan are expected to be (approximately) USD $25.0 million & LOVE IN BEIJING (approximately) USD $15.0 million. The films will be shot simultaneously in both languages and are due for release in Fiscal 2018.

While the original stories were developed by the Trinity Pictures Writers’ Room, creative teams from both Trinity Pictures & the Chinese film companies have worked closely on the scripts to create storylines that blend Sino – Indian culture. The films will be shot across India & China with major parts of Kabir Khan’s THE ZOOKEEPER shot in Chengdu while Siddharth Anand’s LOVE IN BEIJING will be shot in Beijing and its suburbs.

Commenting on the Indo – China co -productions, Jyoti Deshpande, Group CEO, Eros International averred, “We continue to establish our dominant global distribution network including entry into the Chinese market. We believe China to be a significant market opportunity for Indian films. Following our co – production treatise last year, we are very proud to announce the 1st of our joint productions going into production soon. With Trinity, we also want to tell stories that transcend the language barrier and have mainstream appeal. We believe our Indo -China co – productions will be game -changing as we pave the way to open up one of the largest film markets in the world.”

Ajit Thakur, CEO, Trinity Pictures added, “It’s a revolutionary milestone for Indian cinema as Eros’ Trinity Pictures becomes the 1st Indian studio to collaborate with China’s Huaxia Film Distribution Co Ltd & Peacock Mountain Culture & Media Ltd and deliver our vision for a truly global film. Having 2 acclaimed directors like Kabir Khan & Siddharth Anand on board with us, is a big leap towards opening one of the biggest & the fastest growing film markets in the world. With these co – productions being shot in both languages, we hope to present compelling film content, weaving in the socio – cultural worlds of both the countries, which should appeal to the massive Sino – Indian market”.

Creative Producer, Han Sanping averred, “Creating an entertaining movie for 2 of the biggest markets in the world is a big challenge. But having good creative people from both India & China working together we are sure to be successful.”

Allen Liu, Partner, Peacock Mountain added on the association, “It’s exciting to finally pull the curtains over the efforts from writers from both India & China side. Getting the right & the organic story was one of the most important aspect for both the teams from the beginning. Hope the movie shapes up to be a true co -production”.

Director Kabir Khan commented, “It’s an exciting challenge to shoot the film in 2 languages, a 1st for me and creating a whole new world of completely unique characters. There is tremendous potential with similarities in art & culture and I hope to present a film that will be a complete package and will combine the ethos of both the countries.”

Director Siddharth Anand averred, “I am thrilled to be part of a film that will cater to a much wider audience, span new geographies and reach new territories. We are working on a story and creating characters that should resonate with audiences in both the markets.”

Last year, Eros International signed memorandums with leading Chinese state owned film companies China Film Group Corp, Shanghai Film Group & Fudan University for the exploitation of intellectual property rights as well as to develop, co – produce & distribute Indo -China films across all platforms in both countries during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to China.

As per PwC Outlook 2016, China is expected to overtake the US box office in 2016 growing to $10.3 billion. In 2015, the Box Office grew to $6.3 billion marking a 49% year on year growth. In comparison, the US box office is expected to contract from $10.3 billion to $10 billion next year, with Hollywood’s share of the Chinese Box Office slipping to 38.4% in 2015 from 45.5% in 2014. In early 2014, China had just under 19,000 screens and by end of 2015, that number grew to almost 32,000. Overall, China is propelling Asia – Pacific’s growth (including Indonesia, Malaysia) with Box Office revenue across Asia -Pacific expected to grow to $21.11 billion by 2020 and thus continue to emerge as important growth markets for Bollywood.

THE JUNGLE BOOK COMPLETES 100 DAYS AND CREATES HISTORY!!!

The Jungle BooK completes 100 days and creates History. That apart The Jungle Book is back in more cinema halls. Disney’s The Jungle Book adds one more feather in its glittering cap!!! The live action & epic adventure has already set the record of being the Highest Grossing Hollywood Film of all time in India, and raised the bar when it comes to marketing English movies in the country. Directed by Jon Favreau and starring Neli Sethi, The Jungle Book now completes 100 days of its running in Indian theatres on 16th Jul, 2016!!! The film’s total Box -Office collection so far is a whopping 260.28 crores (Gross Box Office) and 187.40 cr NBOC, thus setting a benchmark for English films in India. And if these benchmarks are not enough, encouraged by a surge in demand, driven by the audience’s unparalleled love for the wild adventure, the Studios is all set to bring back the magic of Mowgli, Bagheera, Baloo & Shere Khan to more screens. The film will now be screened at 25 additional screens in the country.

Kabali gets the biggest ever screen count

Initially, the role was offered to Biju Menon and he was really happy to do this. Unfortunately, dates became the villain in the story again. Biju Menon was really busy with his current shooting schedules which made the entry of Anoop Menon in to this project impossible. This would be a simple movie and might be a strong comeback of Mohanlal as a common man. We all are loving to see such characters from him In this movie, he would be seen in the role of a Panchayath Secretary which has been titled as Pranayopanishath. The film has been penned by P Sindhuraj

Janani All Set To Do Malar

Janani all set to do Malar. Janani Iyer is all set to do Malar in her upcoming Tamil movie Thollaikatchi. Is it the Tamil remake of Premam??? Hold on hold on, we are not talking about our Malar miss. The film is completely different. Janani will enact the character named Malar. Nothing related with our Malar miss except the name. Janani is not doing heaps of Malayalam movies, but she is really busy in Kollywood. This gorgeous actress has got 3 big projects in her kitty. Her latest Malayalam movie is Ithu Thanda Police.
Thollaikatchi is a romantic comedy film directed by Sadiq Khan. She is paired with Ashwin Kakumanu and she is showcasing a traditional girl who is always wearing half – sarees.

Deepa Gowda All Set To Tie The Nuptial Knot

Deepa Gowda all set to tie the nuptial knot. With half a dozen films to her credit Deepa Gowda of Just Madveli, Last Bus, Kollegala, Jwalantham, Adbutha, Panditha Bhagyavidhaata, a Tamil film has decided to settle down in marriage and work in a mobile company Samsung in her life. Adbutha is my last Kannada film. I am working in Samsung Company and getting married to Mr Arun in Hassan in Oct this year she disclosed on recently at the audio release of Adbutha speaking to a few journalists. Deepa Gowda twin sister Raani also settled down in marriage after a few films in Kannada and other languages.

Samskrithi Shenoy To Star In Kannada
Movies

Samskrithi Shenoy to star iin Kannada
Movies. Well known Malayalam, Tamil & Telugu films actress Samskrithi Shenoy, daughter of a doctor Govinda Shenoy hailing from Karkala near Mangaluru, makes her debut in Kannada cinema Happy Birthday. Director of this film Mahesh Sukhadhare has kept the name of the heroine in tight secrecy. As the release of Happy Birthday, a film by politician Cheluvanarayana Swamy son Sachin in lead role is hitting the screen in the month of Aug, 2016. Samkriti Shenoy impressed with story & screenplay of the film given the green signal after consulting her father. This is a desi village film. Set in the backdrop of Mandya district. It highlights the culture of that region. Dr Ambarish plays a prominent role in this film. V Harikrishna’s music, Dr V Nagendra Prasad, Yogaraj Bhat, Krishne Gowda & K Kalyan have lent lyrics.

Kabali To Hit The Screens on 22nd July 2016

Kabali to hit the screens on 22nd July 2016. As the biggest film of the year Kabali is getting ready to hit the screens on 22nd Jul, 2016 day in and day out, we keep getting news about the film’s huge release in every nook & corner of the globe. Today we have an interesting update about the film’s release plans in the USA which contributes a huge chunk of overseas market for Tamil films. The distribution rights to release the film across USA has been acquired by Cine Galaxy, the film distribution firm which released Ilayathalapathy Vijay’s Theri and Suriya’s 24 in the country. A top official of Cine Galaxy has confirmed that Kabali will be releasing in 400 screens in Tamil & Telugu languages and this is the biggest number of screens allotted for a Rajinikanth starrer in USA.

Is Trisha & Nayanthara Adopting The Same Love Policy?

Is Trisha & Nayanthara adopting the same love policy? Two of the most charismatic leading ladies of the South Trisha & Nayanthara have withstood heavy competition from much younger girls to stay right at the top for more than a decade. The 2 who are fast friends offscreen seems to have adopted the same policy in recent times. Nayanthara is heading the cast in the new film Dora produced by Sargunam & directed by Dass Ramaswamy. It has been revealed that Nayan is acting without a love interest in the murder mystery film. Similarly Trisha is shooting for Mohini directed by Madhesh and so far a major portion of the horror comedy has been completed but still there is no sign of a hero. We guess that justifies our title

Parthiban Signs 1 More Film With A Young Hero

Parthiban signs 1 more film with a young hero. Chandran who made a grand debut in Prabhu Solomon’s Kayal has just signed a film for a new company 2MB aka 2 Movie Buffs. The as yet untitled film has Satna Titus of Pichaikaaran fame as the heroine. Actor & director Parthiban who off late is doing character roles is doing an important role as a thief in the film which is directed by Sudhar, a veteran of many short films making his debut on the silver screen.

Ajith Scores A Hat Trick With A Brand New Comedy Combo

Ajith scores a Hat Trick with a brand new comedy combo. Ajith’s hat trick collaboration with director Siruthai Siva Thala 57 has started shooting from the 8th Jul, 2016 and the film produced by Sathyajyothi Films has Anirudh scoring the music. There is a strong buzz that Kajal Agarwal is on the verge of signing the leading lady’s role in Thala 57. Meanwhile, it has been confirmed that Karunakaran has come on board for the primary comedian role that was offered to Santhanam first. Thambi Ramaiah is the other cast member who is joining with Ajith – Siva combo for the 3rd time.

Nani’s Villain Is Andala Rakshasi Actor

Nani’s Villain is Andala Rakshasi actor. After Srinivas Avasarala in Gentleman, it’s the turn of yet another actor to don the mantle of a villain for the 1st time ever, for a Nani film. It’s Naveen Chandra of Andala Rakshasi fame. The news is that Naveen Chandra will play a negative character in Nani’s film with Trinadha Rao Nakkina of Cinema Choopistha Mama fame. The actor is lucky because it not only has a hat trick hero playing the lead role, but it’s also produced by an ace producer – Dil Raju. The actor hasn’t had success at the box office so far, but since his 1st film became popular on television, his stubble face is pretty much familiar. He has since acted in some Tamil movies. His recent releases, namely Tripura & Lacchimdeviki O Lekkundi were big flops.

Santhanam’s ‘Dhilluku Dhuddu’ in Telugu

Santhanam’s ‘Dhilluku Dhuddu’ in Telugu.
When others are busy making horror -comedies, one Kollywood filmmaker chose to be different. He made a reel vs real ghost drama, a spoof like feature. It’s Rambala, the director of the 7th Jul, 2016 release Dhilluku Dhuddu. With the film proving to be a big hit there (it has already grossed Rs. 12 cr), it may see a Telugu released (dubbed version) soon. There are reports that it might be remade in Hindi. Starring Santhanam in the lead role, it has Shanaya playing the female lead. Yogi Babu is in another important role. Music is by SS Thaman.

Venky’s Sports Drama To Go On Floors

Venky’s Sports Drama to go on Floors.
It’s known that, post Babu Bangaram, Venkatesh’s next film to go on the floors will be the remake of Madhavan starrer Irudhi Suttru (Saala Khadoos in Hindi). To be directed by Sudha Kongaru, the movie will have Ritika Singh reprising her own part from the original. To be co – produced by D Suresh Babu, the sports drama will go on the floors in Sept, 2016. Efforts are on to shoot the 1st schedule in Vizag. Venky will start growing a beard for the role. He is not going to sport 6 pack abs, but will look fit enough for the character. Music is by Santosh Narayanan of Kabali fame. Cinematography is by Sivakumar Vijayan. Art direction is by Santhanam.

Pani Leni Puli Raju Release Date Fixed For 15th July 2016

Pani Leni Puli Raju release date fixed for 15th July 2016. With a never – say – die spirit, Dhan Raj is coming back in the role of a lead. Call it courage or whatever, he is playing 13 roles in this comedy entertainer. Directed by Chacha, the film is Pani Leni Puli Raju. Funnily enough, this one without work has 13 avatars to essay. The film will hit the screens on 15th Jul, 2016. “Dhan Raj’s character is molded in a new fashion. Raghu Babu’s character is a continuation of his role in Bunny,” the director says. The producer says, “The songs released recently have been getting a very good response. A motion poster with dialogues released the other day has been a hit. We are confident of delivering a hit.”

Anoop Menon & Mohanlal Duo Are Back Again

Anoop Menon & Mohanlal duo are back Again. After Kanal, Mohanlal & Anoop Menon are all set to rejoin again for an upcoming movie. The movie would be directed by Jibu Jacob. Initially, the role was offered to Biju Menon and he was really happy to do this. Unfortunately, dates became the villain in the story again. Biju Menon was really busy with his current shooting schedules which made the entry of Anoop Menon in to this project. This would be a simple movie and might be a strong comeback of Mohanlal as a common man. We all are loving to see such characters from him. In this movie, he would be seen in the role of a Panchayath Secretary which has been titled as Pranayopanishath. The film has penned by P Sindhuraj.

Harshvardhan Joshi’s dreams seem to be coming all true! “Who would’ve thought a law student from Gujarat would come to Mumbai and pursue his Bollywood dreams,” quips Harshvardhan who although moved to Mumbai to study Cyber Law but landed up with his debut Bollywood film Love Ke Funday produced by Faaiz Anwar & Prem Prakash Gupta of FRV Big Business Entertainment Pvt Ltd & Prem Motion Pictures.

“I was always interested in acting and would keep participating in modelling contests and what not. I made it into the Grooming Competition of NIFT and that was the turning point,” states Harshvardhan while further adding, “I then moved to Mumbai and joined this theater group called Karma Kala Manch and worked with Azad Bharti for 3 years. It was during this stint that Director Indervesh Yogee saw me in short stories of Desi Bamboo online YouTube viral network and offered me to audition for the role in Love Ke Funday.”

Moving from theater to films wasn’t that easy a transition for Harshvardhan who says, “I was used to slightly dramatic, theater style acting while for this film my role had to be very subtle. In fact ironically, mine was the most subtle, emotional, one woman man, part. So I had to learn how to underplay.”

Well, if underplay is what gets him the applause so be it because we surely think this Gujarat Boy is here to stay!

Rishank Tiwari, the dashing & the debonair dude, hails from Saugor hills in the heart of India, Madhya Pradesh and once he gained an instant limelighted recognition when he had bagged the crowning glory of being singled out as Mr. Madhya Pradesh in 2009. No doubt this crowning glory was a result of his own merit. His next step to stardom was when he bagged a Bollywood movie named Love Ke Funday, produced by lyricist Faaiz Anwar & Prem Prakash Gupta of FRV Big Business Entertainment Pvt Ltd & Prem Motion Movies.

*Hi Rishank tell us how did you make your foray in Bollywood?

*First of all let me start from the beginning I have a big loving family and with a big family comes big expectations. While different members of my family wanted to see me in different professions, I could only choose to become one of them. However, becoming an actor was the only way I could role play everything that my family wanted me to. This was where my love for becoming an actor began. Being a religious person, I started following my passion of acting very religiously! So, acting became my reason for living, it became my religion too.”

*So how did you bag such a lovely role in Love Ke Funday?

*Actually speaking this particular answer also needs a little elaboration. So to begin with let me inform you that I’ve done theatre for 3 and a half years. But like any other upcoming actor, I had to audition for the role of Love Ke Funday. I’m glad that my film makers acknowledged my talent and gave me a break. This is an exciting new beginning for me. I hope as my learning graph in the industry goes up, the entire film industry will accept this ‘small town boy’ wholeheartedly.

*It really sounds strange but debuting in a film is one thing and starring with 2 heroines in a single film Love Ke Funday is a different ball game altogether. What say?

*To be very honest it was indeed very difficult. But I consider myself lucky that I got a chance to act with 2 heroines namely Ritika Gulati & Samiksha Bhatnagar. In fact I am the only hero amongst the 4 of us who got a chance to romance with 2 heroines. That apart I strongly believe that acting is all about drawing inspiration from real life experiences but in the movie I’m shown to be a married guy who has a relationship with another girl outside of marriage! None of this has happened to me in real life but now it happened in reel life which made it all the more difficult to essay the complex yet enjoyable role but as they alway’s say that all’s well that end’s well.”

*Now tell us something about your producer Faiz Anwar, your director Indervesh Yogi and your co – stars Ritika Gulati, Samiksha Bhatnagar, Harshavardhan Joshi & Shaleen Bhanot.

*Faiz Anwaar Sir is not only a reputed lyricist but also a gem of a person as a producer. Inervesh Yogi is a very talented director just watch out for him in his future directorial ventures. I couldn’t have asked for a better producer and director for my debout film and as for the girls Ritika Gulati & Samiksha Bhatnagar they are also debutant actors like me and we have miles & miles to go before we succeed in making a mark in Bollywood and proving our perfect histrinics. But it was fun working with Ritika, Samiksha, Harshavardhan Joshi and a senior actor like Shaleen Bhanot. In fact I woud say that Love Ke Fundey is a real rollercoaster ride of entertainment.

Producer: Jerry Weintraub, David Barron, Alan Riche & Tony Ludwig
Director: David Yates
Star Cast: Alexander Skarsgård, Samuel L. Jackson, Margot Robbie, Djimon Hounsou, Jim Broadbent & Christoph Waltz
Music: Rupert Gregson – Williams & Hans Zimmer

Several movies have been crafted on the fictional character of Tarzan, which was originally conceived by popular author Edgar Rice Borroughs, till this date. But of course the latest version namely The Legend Of Tarzan directed by well – known director David Yates does a complete volte face as the legendary character Tarzan no longer resides in the dense jungle as an uneducated beastly character albeit a hunted species. But of late he has shifted & resides in the city. What happens to the Tarzan of the city is well worth watching on the celluloid silver screen at least once.

The original story of Tarzan is about a boy born & raised in the jungles of Africa. So the moment we hear the name Tarzan, we are fast taken back to our childhood when we would hear the story of a young boy who was raised by the beasts of the forest as one of them, until he falls in love with another beautiful girl, who just like him feels more at home in the dense jungles. However, The Legend Of Tarzan is a different story altogether. Unlike the popular story, this film starts off with Tarzan having given up his wild ways for a more peaceful & comfortable life in London as John Clayton III aka Lord Greystoke (Alexander Skarsgard) with his beloved wife Jane (Margot Robbie) at his side. But this time of peacefulness is fast shattered when he is invited back to the Congo to serve as a trade emissary of the Parliament, to investigate the activities at a mining encampment. Unaware that he is a pawn in a deadly convergence of greed & revenge, masterminded by the Belgian Captain Leon Rom (Christoph Waltz), Tarzan undertakes the journey putting all at stake.

Director David Yates efforts to change the entire scenario in The Legend Of Tarzan is laudable but the mnillion dollar question is will the modern day version of Tarzan be acceptable to today’s cine goers? Here, it must be pointed out that despite a story that keeps looping from past to present back & forth, director David Yates does well to give each timeline equal importance while simultaneously merging the 2 sans the usual confusion.

Performance wise Alexander Skarsgard as Tarzan is ok but he does fall short of the expectation bar that other past actor have raised who have literally lived the role and done complete justice to it. Margot Robbie as Jane seems to have been completely miscast. Christoph Waltz as Captain Leon Rom is perfect to the hilt. No doubt all the other actors have made their presence felt it is Samuel L Jackson’s character that is totally out of place.

Tail Piece: The Legend Of Tarzan maybe good enough as a one time watch but it fails to live upto the expectation of the Gen Next.

KINO LORBER ACQUIRES US RIGHTS OF FATIMA

Kino Lorber has acquired all US rights to Philippe Faucon’s Fatima, which won France’s prestigious Louis Delluc award and has been nominated for Cesar nods (France’s equivalent to Oscars). The movie, which world premiered at Cannes’ Directors’ Fortnight, will have its US premiere early next month at the upcoming New York set Rendezvous with French Cinema, a festival organized by Unifrance and ilm Society of Lincoln Center. Fatima will then play at COLCOA, the Los Angeles based French film festival, in Apr, 2016. In addition to winning a Louis Delluc prize, an award given by film critics and headed by former Cannes president Gilles Jacob, Fatima won “Best Script” at this year’s Lumieres Awards, the French equivalent to Golden Globes. The movie competed in all major categories at the Cesar ceremony.

STREAMING & SUB SERVICES SUSTAIN VIVENDI’S UNIVERSAL MUSIC GROUP

Launching 2 of the top 3 US albums of 2015, Taylor Swift’s 1989 & Justin Bieber’s Purpose, Vivendi’s Universal Music Group, the world’s No. 1 company in recorded music, saw revenues edge up 2.7% in 2015 to €5.1 billion ($5.6 billion), thanks to a 43% hike in subscription & streaming revenues, Vivendi announced Thurs as it presented full – year 2015 results. Addressing an analysts’ conference Thurs evening in Paris, Vivendi CEO Arnaud De Puyfontaine reiterated chairman Vincent Bolloré’s insistence on a drive into content, plus distribution & media, in partnership with telcos such as Telecom Italia & Spain’s Telefonica asonference Thurs evening in Paris, Vivendi CEO Artone growth strategy at one & media groups. The elephant in the room remains Netflix. Driving into content, such as soccer rights, Vivendi is now attempting to ward off accumulating global competition, including Discovery – Eurosport, which snagged European rights to the Olympic Games in 2018 & 2022 in France & UK.

NEWS CORP SETS UP CONSERVATIVE WEBSITE

Rupert Murdoch’s News Corp is planning to launch Heat Street, a libertarian website that will serve a right – of – center audience in US & UK. It will be led by Louise Mensch, a former Conservative Party Member of Parliament in UK and Noah Kotch, a former TV producer for NBC & ABC. Mensch, who now lives in New York, said in a tweet that the site will be somewhere where “disagreement is encouraged.” Investigative journalist Miles Goslett, whose scoops have included reports on the Jimmy Savile sex – abuse scandal and the controversy surrounding children’s charity Kids Company, has been appointed Heat Street’s UK editor. News Corp spokesman Jim Kennedy said in a statement, “The field is wide open for diverse, provocative Internet – native content, so we’ll let it be judged by its uniqueness when it launches.” Kennedy added that Heat Street will “in a spirit of free speech and no ‘safe spaces,’ covers a variety of topics from a diversity of viewpoints.”

GRASSHOPPER FILM BUYS NORTH AMERICAN RIGHTS OF NICOLA CONSTANTINO: THE ARTEFACTA

New indie distribution shingle Grasshopper Film has acquired all North American rights to buzz documentary Nicola Costantino: The Artefacta, about one of Latin America’s most controversial artists. They are partnering with on -demand streaming Fandor for its combined day – and – date premium SVOD & theatrical release in the US this spring. Grasshopper Film is founded by Ryan Krivoshey, former acquisitions chief of New York based boutique distributor the Cinema Guild. His new company, which just launched at Berlin’s EFM mart, plans to release 8 to 12 titles theatrically per year and more than 50 pics on VOD, digital & non – traditional outlets. Helmed by Italian editor – turned – director Natalie Cristiani, Nicola Costantino: The Artefacta, world premiered at Canada’s HotDocs 2015 to a positive reception and more recently screened at BFI London Film Festival, during which it screened in a limited window in Europe on premium subscription streaming service Mubi.

DAVID ATTENBOROUGH TO NARRATE BBC DOCUMENTARY SERIES

David Attenborough has come on board to narrate natural history series Planet Earth II, which is being presented to international buyers at a BBC Worldwide sales event in Liverpool, England tomorrow. BBC Worldwide, the commercial arm of UK broadcaster, has inked its 1st sales on 6 part show, ahead of BBC Worldwide Showcase, which draws 700 international buyers. The series, which is a co -production between BBC, BBC America, ZDF in Germany & France Televisions in France, has just been picked up by Sweden’s SVT, Denmark’s DR & Italy’s Mediaset. Its launch comes a decade on from the critically acclaimed Planet Earth, which sold to more than 230 territories. David Attenborough will be in Liverpool for an event on Tues to launch the series. He will be interviewed on stage by documentary film maker Louis Theroux, and will be joined by the show’s executive producer Mike Gunton and the series producer Tom Hugh – Jones. Planet Earth II, previously known by its working title One Planet, explores “the characteristics of Earth’s most iconic habitats and the extraordinary ways animals survive within them.”

PETER BAZALGETTE FACES CHALLENGES

Peter Bazalgette, the new chairman of ITV, is as comfortable talking content as he is debating the more arcane aspects of media regulation. Few of British TV’s top brass are as experienced, or as well connected, as the 62 year old Bazalgette, or Baz, as he likes to be known. Bazalgette effortlessly rubs shoulders with US content kings, senior British politicians & fashionable independent producers. A food writer for the Financial Times and author of Billion Dollar Game, which contained an insider’s account of his one time boss, Endemol co – founder John De Mol, Bazalgette is a man of many parts. He once said his hobbies are opera & gluttony, an interesting insight into the TV topper who persuaded UK web Channel 4 to buy Big Brother. From setting up indie Bazal Productions, sold to what became Endemol, to Big Brother, Bazalgette’s career has mapped many of the changes in TV business during the past 3 decades.

UK’S PICTUREHOUSE ACQUIRES THE INNOCENTS

Picturehouse Entertainment has picked up UK rights to Anne Fontaine’s The Innocents (Agnus Dei), which premiered at Sundance. Set in Poland in 1945, the inspiring drama tells the true story of French Red Cross doctor Madeleine Pauliac who was on a mission to help World War II survivors when she crossed paths with a nun who sought help. She was then brought to a convent where several pregnant sisters were concealed, the victims of the Soviet soldiers’ barbarities. Unable to reconcile their faith with their pregnancy, the nuns turned to the doctor who became their only hope. Penned by Sabrina B. Karine, Alice Vial, Pascal Bonitzer, the French – Polish drama toplines French up – and -comer Lou De Laage & Agata Kulesza. The deal was negotiated between Films Distribution’s Sebastien Beffa & Picturehouse Entertainment’s Clare Binns. The Innocents is produced by Eric Altmayer & Nicolas Altmayer. Eliza Oczkowska & Klaudia Smieja are co -producers.

F&ME BOOSTS PRODUCTION SLATE TO 12 FILMS

London based production house Film & Music Entertainment, which is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, has expanded its 2015 / 2016 active production slate to 12 pictures. The company has produced more than 50 feature films in – house. F&ME, which is headed by Mike Downey & Sam Taylor, has come on board Bodo Kox’s screenplay The Man With The Magic Box, produced by Iza Igel at Alter Ego Prods, and is in an advanced stage of negotiation with Polish partners to join Andrzej Jakimowski’s new production, as well as a collaboration with producers Radoslaw Drabik & Michal Kachinski, whose rom – com Planet Single has been blazing a trail at the Polish Box Office in the last 10 days. F&ME’s slate includes I Want To Be Like You, by writer -director Konstantin Bojanov, which is in post – production in Berlin. The road movie about a young artist’s journey to meet his hero stars 71’s Barry Keoghan, Kim Bodnia & Thure Lindhardt. A co – production between UK (F&ME), Bulgaria (Multfilm) & Belgium (Leftfield), the film is being sold internationally by Antonio Saura’s Latido Film Sales.

EMBRACE OF THE SERPENT FINDS SUPPORT FROM CARACOL TV

One of the staunchest champions behind Colombia’s 1st ever “Best Foreign Language” Oscar nominee Embrace Of The Serpent is Colombia’s Caracol TV, one of just 2 private broadcasters in this Andean nation where local film production has grown exponentially. “We’d been searching for years to find a story about the Amazon,” said Alejandro Bernal, General Manager of new channels & film at Caracol Television. After meeting helmer Ciro Guerra and his producing partner Cristina Gallego about their black & white Amazon set drama, they jumped in from the onset, putting up at least 30% of the $1.4 million budget. On top of that, it spent an estimated $500,000 on the film’s marketing & promotion at home & abroad.

GUILLAUME DE POSCH TO DELIVER MIPTV KEYNOTE

Guillaume De Posch, co -chief executive officer of RTL Group, Europe’s leading TV network with interests in more than 50 TV channels, will deliver a keynote speech at TV trade show MipTV, which runs from 4th Apr, 2016 to 7th Apr, 2016 in Cannes. De Posch will address the MipTV audience on 4th Apr, 2016 taking as his theme “The digital transformation of RTL Group.” De Posch was appointed chief operating officer and member of the RTL Group executive committee in Jan, 2012, subsequently being named co – CEO of RTL Group in Apr, 2012. In this position he oversees RTL Group’s broadcasting operations outside Germany and its content production arm, FremantleMedia, whose numerous hit titles include Idols, X Factor, Got Talent & The Price Is Right. De Posch is also chairman of the board of BroadbandTV, StyleHaul & SpotX, RTL Group’s recent digital investments in North America.

SUBURBICON SELLS TO FRANCE’S METROPOLITAN FILMEXPORT

Samuel Hadida & Victor Hadida’s Paris based distribution company Metropolitan Filmexport has acquired George Clooney’s Suburbicon, one of the hottest projects sold in Berlin. The deal, which is rumored to be for about $4 million, perpetuates Metropolitan’s relationship with Clooney. Victor Hadida told Variety that Metropolitan previously co -produced George Clooney’s Good Night & Good Luck and co – financed The Ides Of March. Currently in pre -production, Suburbicon spurred a bidding war for France, a highly competitive & key European market for prestige US indies. Penned by Joel Coen & Ethan Coen, Suburbicon has Matt Damon & Julianne Moore attached to star. The movie centers on a picture perfect family that turns to blackmail, revenge & betrayal after a home invasion. Pic has been sold worldwide by Alex Walton’s Bloom. Deals were inked for UK (eOne), Germany (Tele München / Concorde); Spain (Tri – Pictures SA); Italy (Leone Films); Latin America (Sun Distribution); Canada (Elevation); Greece (Odeon); Hong Kong,(Bravos); Scandinavia (MisLabel); Romania (Odeon); Turkey (Bir); Korea (Woosung);Japan (Tohokushinka Film Corporation); India (PVR); Taiwan (Filmware); Czech Republic (AQS); Poland (Monolith); Australia (Roadshow); former Yugoslavia (Blitz) & Middle East (Salim Ramia).

KEIRA KNIGHTLEY FILM COLETTE SELLS OUT IN BERLIN

Keira Knightley starrer Colette, based on the life of the French author who wrote Gigi & Cheri, has enjoyed robust sales in Berlin this year, with sales agent Hanway Films selling out the project. Pic, which is produced by Number 9 Films & Killer Films (both shingles behind Carol) as well as Bold Films, has inked deals in France (Mars), Germany & Austria (DCM), Italy (Good Films), Spain (DeAPlaneta), Scandinavia (Scanbox), Japan (Tohokushinsha), Australia /New Zealand (Transmission), Latin America (Sun Distribution), South Korea (Rollong & First Run), Poland (Monolith), Czech /Slovak Republics (AQS), former Yugoslavia (Discovery), Greece & Cyprus (Odeon), Portugal (Lusomundo), Baltics (Acme), Middle East (Front Row), South Africa (Ster Kinekor), Hong Kong (Suncream), Taiwan (Filmware) and airlines (Jaguar).

LEECO EXPANDS INTO US MARKET
New year’s celebrations are winding down in China this week, where the whole country has been at a virtual standstill for a little over a week. Lunar New Year is China’s biggest holiday, and the most recent one rang in the Year of the Monkey. “Monkeys are known as great leaders,” says Zhang Zhao, CEO of Beijing based LeVision Pictures. “Great leadership also (reshapes) what it means to be innovative by breaking down borders.” Zhang has been trying to break down borders himself ever since he joined LeVision in 2011, co – financing Hollywood movies like The Expendables 2 and distributing them in China, and also getting into the production business in a big way with the Matt Damon helmed pic The Great Wall, due to be released later this year. But Zhang and his colleagues aren’t just looking to make a splash with movies during the Year of the Monkey. LeVision’s corporate parent LeEco is getting ready for an ambitious international expansion that will also include taking the 1st ever steps into US market to sell smartphones, TV sets & content services.

UNIVERSAL & PERFECT WORLD PICTURES COMPLETE $500 MILLION DEAL

Perfect World Pictures & Universal Pictures have announced the completion of a $500 million slate financing deal running up to 5 years that will make the Beijing based maker of films, television programs & online games a major investor in one of Hollywood’s most successful studios. Word of the deal came in an announcement from Jeff Shell, chairman of Universal Filmed Entertainment Group and Michael Chi, chairman of Perfect World. It will cover the co – financing of 50 films or last for 5 years, with specific pictures within the deal to be announced later. The pact will not alter Legendary Entertainment’s co -financing of some Universal films. Legendary was recently purchased by another Chinese firm, Dalian Wanda. The cementing of the arrangement, the 1st time ever a Chinese company will invest in a multi year slate deal, comes a month after it was 1st reported in
Variety, marking another in a series of significant investments by Chinese concerns in Western Entertainment Operations. The deal came to light just days after Dalian Wanda revealed its $3.5 billion deal for Thomas Tull’s Legendary Entertainment. The $500 million investment is said to be split evenly between debt & equity contributions to the Universal movie slate.

THE MERMAID BECOMES HIGHEST GROSSING FILM EVER MADE

Stephen Chow’s fishy fantasy The Mermaid comfortably won its 2nd week at the Chinese Box Office and swam into the record books as the biggest film of all time released in China. At the end of the weekend it stood at $415 million after 14 days of release, overtaking the previous records of Monster Hunt & Fast And Furious 7, both set last year. Estimates for Mon (22nd Feb, 2016) see it extending that score to $431 million. In the past week it scored $139 million, ahead of $40 million for The Monkey King 2 and $32.5 million for The Man From Macau 3. Both films were released on the same day as The Mermaid, the 1st day of the Chinese New Year holidays and stand at $157 million & $152 million, respectively. Over the 3 day Fri – to – Sun weekend, The Mermaid was again on top, beating new release Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon II: The Green Destiny, which opened with $20.8 million in 3 days. That puts The Mermaid on course to become the 1st half billion dollar scoring film in Chinese history.

HARSHAVARDHAN GETS HIS ‘SANAM TERI KASAM’ TATOO INKED FOR REAL !!!

SANAM TERI KASAM’s intense hero Harshvardhan Rane has a new tattoo and it’s the same one that he sported in his debut film. Well, we’ve heard of fans copying the tattoos sported by their fave stars and Harshvardhan has had his share too of such fans. But it’s probably a first when an actor has got his own reel tattoo for real! The hunky star has his birth -date – 16th Dec – inked on his ring finger exactly the way he sported it in SANAM TERI KASAM. Harsha says, “Yes, this is my birth – date and it’s the same tattoo in SANAM TERI KASAM, just that I have it for real now. So, in a way SANAM TERI KASAM has become a part of me forever.” This is not the actor’s only tattoo. Harsha already has a tattoo, “Son of God” that has been copied by several fans.

‘PHILLAURI’ SHOOT WRAPS UP CAPTURING THE BEST OF PUNJAB

Fox Star Studios & Anushka Sharma’s home production, PHILLAURI, has wrapped up its shoot. Shot extensively in the picturesque & colorful state of Punjab, the film stars Diljit Dusanjh, Suraj Sharma, Mehreen Pirzada & Anushka. The shoot had begun on Baisakhi earlier this year. Co – produced by Clean Slate Films (Anushka’s production banner with brother Karnesh Sharma) & Fox Star Studios, PHILLAURI is a fun – filled romantic Hindi film set in Phillaur, Punjab. Directed by debutant Anshai Lal & written by Anvita Dutt, the film has a unique premise – it took almost 100 years, a crazy Punjabi wedding and rank strangers to complete this love story. Karnesh Sharma (of Clean Slate Films) said, “We have completed an exciting, at times exhausting yet fun shoot. We shot through the Punjab summer and explored some beautiful locations. PHILLAURI will now begin its post production in Mumbai, and we are looking forward to the process.” Vijay Singh, CEO, Fox Star Studios said, “PHILLAURI is a story that has its heart in the right place. It has a lot of fun, superb music & loads of desi color. PHILLAURI is an entertaining film with a lot of soul that will touch everyone’s heart.”

AMY JACKSON LET’S HER HAIR DOWN IN IBIZA

Amy Jackson who recently travelled to London on a professional commitment, got some much needed R & R as she took the opportunity to holiday with her Brit -model friends Alice Amelia & Hanne Matthijs. The former model turned actress then took off to Formentera – Playa de Es Pujols, an island off the Spanish coast, where she spent the weekend in Ibiza. Apart from spending their afternoons on a cruise, the lovely ladies also spent their time binge -watching romcoms but sticking to their diets as they only indulged in salads & smoothies. Says Amy, “I love Spain. It has a calming effect on me. Besides, I needed a break from my hectic work schedule. I will be back in Mumbai in the 1st week of July”. Amy and her friends even spent their last night dancing away at the Blue Marlin, a popular beach club. “These girls are my childhood buddies. One needs to be in the best company to have fun and I am lucky I have them,” she adds.

FOX STAR STUDIOS TO DISTRIBUTE ‘KABALI’ PAN INDIA EXCEPT THE SOUTHERN MARKETS

The Rajnikanth starrer KABALI is one of the most awaited films not only in India but all over the world! The film which is set to release in India on 22nd Jul, 2016 will be distributed Pan India except the Southern markets by Fox Star Studios. Despite the films’ core language being Tamil there is huge excitement & buzz in other parts of the country too. The film will be dubbed in Hindi & Telugu and will also be released with subtitles. Fox Star Studios will be releasing the film in more than 1000 screens in the Northern markets. Vijay Singh, CEO, Fox Star Studios says “It is a privilege to be associated with superstar Rajnikanth’s film KABALI. There is immense excitement for the film all over the country and we are working towards a pan India release excluding the Southern markets. Fans will not be disappointed as we will release the filmworld wide !!!

ZEENAT’S SELFIE TIME !

Yesteryears diva Zeenat Aman had a good time, while clicking selfies with her co – actors Kapil Kaustubh Sharma and Yuvraaj Parashar, on the last day of the shoot, on the sets of her web series Love Life & Screw Ups! Once as the trio was done with their selfies, the other actors & crew members lined up to click selfies with her. It seemed a helluva selfie day! Incidentally, Zeenat Aman makes digital debut with this series and along with Kapil & Yuvraaj, it also stars Mita Vashisht, Dolly Thakore, Sonali Raut & Diandra Soares. It is a feel good romantic comedy youth based show. Zeenat is playing a super glam spinster, Joanna, who is full of life, fun & positivity. She is a non -apologetic vain and part of a chilled out group. Zeenat has worked really hard to look her best in the series. For 3 months she has been on a strict diet and rigorously working out to get in right shape for the super glam Joanna. Director Kapil Kaustubh Sharma is tapping her crazy comical side again, like in MANORANJAN, HEERA PANNA & YAADON KI BARAAT. He had to wait for 2 months before he got to meet the veteran actress. He admits that she was unsure about going digital but was hooked when she heard the concept, even remarking that “this could have been a movie!” Zeenat has taken an active interest in her styling. Her look is inspired from the ‘70s; she’ll be seen in long skirts, scarves & large goggles. The show will be aired with English subtitles keeping the global audience in mind.

ATHIYA SHETTY’S DEBUT AD WILL BE AIRED IN SEPT 2016

Athiya is excited right now with her 1st ever advertisement. She endorses a make – up brand, a deal she bagged soon after the release of her debut film last Sept. Athiya says, “We shot for the ad in Bangkok (Thailand) some time back. It will be aired in Sept, 2016. It is a fabulous concept.”Athiya says her dad (Suniel Shetty) pushes her to make her own decisions. “I discuss a lot of things with my dad. But, at the end of the day, I have to take the decision. He tells me that it is okay to make mistakes. Doing so helps you evolve as a person.”

POSTER OF ANNA HAZARE’S BIOPIC ‘ANNA’ UNVEILED

Shashank Udapurkar is all set to translate Anna Hazare’s achievements on to the big screen. The 1st poster of the film ANNA was revealed in the presence of Anna Hazare, director Shashank Udapurkar, Tanish Mukerji and the rest of the cast. The movie has been shot in Ralegan Siddhi, Mumbai, Delhi, Kashmir, Ladakh & Rajasthan and is almost complete. The true story of the man of truth Kisan Baburao Hazare includes all true events. This biopic includes the events & character that influenced Kisan, a struggling village boy with his own thoughts & questions of the purpose of life. Kisan started his journey from service to Indian Army as Driver and then finds his only selfless and inclusive purpose of working for People of village by inspiring them to stand for ourselves using the weapon of Anashan & Shramdan. And thus we get to know the Real Anna, fighting for the people of the country against corruption at Ramlila Maidan, Delhi. The whole story, from Kisan to Anna is told to us through each Ideals & Psyche of Anna presenting at what so called the 2nd battle of Independence. This story of struggle, truth & battle inspires us to create more Anna in today’s times. This is the honest attempt to create the Inspiration through this film with the big heart.

‘RUSTOM’ TO BE THE HIGHEST MOUNTED TRAILER !

“3 – Shots that shocked the nations” and 1 trailer that certainly seem to be waiting to tip the scales for the box office, Akshay Kumar in & as RUSTOM will leave you anxious for more. The trailer has already been inching towards its 1st millions, setting it as a quickest trend -setter of recent times and it’s only been a day since the makers launched it. At 8.57 last night Zee Network showcased the trailer worldwide across 117 countries. Zee channels alone are set to take it across 960 million viewers, making it the highest mounted film in the history of Bollywood. Produced by Aruna Bhatia, Nittin Keni, Akash Chawla, Virender Arora, Ishwar Kapoor & Shiital Bhatia, RUSTOM is yet another in the league of Akshay & Neeraj Pandey collaborations that will have to sit up & take notice of all that the duo is capable of. Slowly & steadily, Akshay seems to have managed to walk the rope between massy masala & classy thrills, this one obviously borders on the later. Directed by Tinu Suresh Desai, RUSTOM will hit the theatres on 12th Aug, 2016.

VERSA – STYLE !

From the chocolate boy of ALWAYS KABHI KABHI to the rustic rascal of KERRY ON KUTTON, Satyajeet Dubey has come a long way. “When I did ALWAYS KABHI KABHI, I was a kid who just wanted to be an actor. After giving 127 auditions over a period of 8 months, I got several ads in a week. And then one fine day Shaheen Abbas, Roshan Abbas’s wife spotted me in one of my ad – films. At the same time, I got a call from Dharma Productions & Y Films. “I felt Red Chillies was the best option and went in for it. ALWAYS KABHI KABHI just happened. It took 2 years in the making and didn’t work at the box office. Later I gave audition for all the slice of life, coming of age films but nothing much happened but I never stopped trying. Then BAANKEY KI CRAZY BARAAT happened. I kept on doing a lot of ads & theatre in between. Then I got an option between two films, one a chocolate hero with a romantic twist and another film totally made in a rustic zone. I went in for the latter. It was completely different from what I have done before and honestly, I am proud I chose KERRY ON KUTTON, because this film showed me in a totally different look, the character required a lot of work and I could show my range as an actor and this was drastically different from ALWAYS KABHI KABHI.” Here is looking forward to more from this versatile actor.

DISTRIBUTOR & PRODUCER SHILADITYA BORA TURNS DIRECTOR WITH MAIDEN SHORT ‘WIFE NOT WIFE’

Shiladitya Bora, CEO of Drishyam Films, has forayed into direction with a short film intriguingly titled WIFE NOT WIFE. Having distributed & produced award -winning films such as COURT, MASAAN & DHANAK, Shiladitya, who has dabbled in all things filmy, crosses the final frontier by directing his 1st film, a comedy -drama. Starring Pankaj Tripathi of GANGS OF WASSEYPUR & MASAAN fame,
Anuritta K Jha & Gbolabo Lucas, the detective story with a surprise twist has been penned by Greek screenwriter Manolis Froudarakis. WIFE NOT WIFE has been produced by Shilpi Agarwal and was shot on 5 locations in Mumbai. Scored by music producer Kanishk Seth, with Pooja Gupte (RUKH & CROSSING BRIDGES) behind the lens, the film will be set to make its world premiere by Sept, 2016. A director, producer, distributor and a true-blue cinephile, Shiladitya is known for establishing PVR’s Director’s Rare, India’s leading indie release banner. At the helm of Drishyam Films, Shiladitya is working on high quality indie cinema which travels far & wide across the world yet also engages with audiences within the country.