After Bollywood, Dolby Sets Sights on South Indian Films Global audio specialist Dolby plans to aggressively expand in the South Indian film industry. The company has always been stronger in the Hindi film industry, compared to the southern one. DTS is the market leader in the southern film market and is synonymous with digital sound there. “Though we have been operating in India for more than 30 years, we started direct operations here only three years ago. It is time to expand to other regions beyond Bollywood, where there are equally good opportunities,” Pankaj Kedia, country manager, Dolby Laboratories India told Financial Chronicle. “Last year we introduced the Dolby Surround 7.1 in India. Four films - Ra One, Dum Maaro Dum, Bodyguard and Rockstar were released in the format. We expect to have at least 15 titles in 7.1 this year, of which some may be South Indian films.” Dolby 7.1 is a surround sound format that uses eight discrete audio channels to establish four sound zones in a cinema hall. In surround sound, speakers are placed around the hall so that the movie creates a real-life effect on the audience. Audio is mixed in the same format so as to be compatible with the speakers. More than 50 per cent of cinema halls in the country have Dolby surround sound. About 170 are 7.1 ready. Close to 400 theatres will be equipped with the format by the end of this year, Kedia said. “Audio is the only aspect that gives an edge to cinema halls over other mediums. While films can be seen on devices including laptops, PCs or mobile phones, movie-watching experience in theatres still remains unparalleled. This is because of minimal distraction; the audience is captive. Moreover, filmmakers make
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movies primarily for cinema goers and they want to enhance the presentation further to draw more crowds to cinema halls,” he added. US-based Dolby specialises in audio noise reduction and encoding/ compression.
Eros International Announces Successful Overseas Collection for Agneepath Eros International Media Ltd (Eros International) has announced a smash hit opening for Agneepath overseas. In its opening weekend, the film has shown collections of 16 crore in the international markets. Eros released Agneepath internationally on 337 screens, the highest ever for any Hrithik Roshan film. Produced by Dharma Productions, Agneepath has been directed by Karan Malhotra and released across cinemas worldwide on 26th January. Along with the fantastic box office collections, the film opened to very positive reviews appreciating the stellar performances of its leading cast including Hrithik Roshan, Sanjay Dutt, Priyanka Chopra and Rishi Kapoor.
Agneepath grossed £347,000 in UK in its first weekend (4 days). This is the highest opening weekend collections for any ‘15’ rated Indian film. Agneepath is also ranked No 10 on UK Top 10 Box Office. In the United States, the four day first weekend collections are US$ 1.3 million, reflecting a healthy average of $10,000 plus per theatre. In UAE too, Agneepath has grossed over US$ 800,000 in four days, indicating the enormous support consumers have shown for this film. Other strong performing territories are Australia, Pakistan, Singapore, South Africa, Mauritius and Kenya. Commenting on the film’s overseas performance, Pranab Kapadia, President – Marketing and Distribution - Eros International plc said, “Agneepath has done extremely well in all the overseas markets making it the first blockbuster of the New Year. The tremendous response has been very encouraging with all major markets indicating remarkable box office results.” Producer Karan Johar added, “All of us at Dharma are ecstatic at the historic opening day collections. It truly is the director Karan Malhotra’s vision that has made it all possible. Revisiting a cult classic is a daunting task and he along with his brilliant cast and crew has helped create box office magic!”
PVR Juhu Cinema in Mumbai Installs Harman JBL Audio System Harman International India Pvt. Ltd. successfully completed an audio system installation with Harman JBL Professional cinema loudspeakers at PVR Cinema in Juhu, Mumbai. PVR Cinema is India’s leading and premium cinema exhibition chain.
Reliance MediaWorks’ ‘Lowry Process’ Scientific and Technical Awards 2012 Reliance MediaWorks has applied its proprietary image processing techniques to restoration projects like the James Bond franchise, Rashomon, The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp, as well as to new features from James Cameron’s Avatar to David Fincher’s Social Network and Zodiac.
PVR Cinema in Juhu consists of five auditoriums, which have varied seating capacity ranging from approximately 100 to 300 seats. Due to its prime location, the Juhu cinema hosts previews and premieres of most of the major movie releases every week.
Reliance MediaWorks Ltd., India’s fastest growing film and entertainment Services Company and a member of the Reliance group, has had members of its Global Imaging Technology Center selected to receive the revered Academy plaques at the Academy’s Scientific and Technical Awards 2012.
Samir Mistry, application engineer at Harman Professional India, carried out the system installation with assistance from Hi-Tech Audio Systems, the authorized India distributor for Harman Professional products in India.
The prestigious award received at the ceremony held on February 11, 2012 by John Lowry, Ian Caven, Kimball Thurston, Ian Godin and Tim Connolly.
PVR opted for Harman JBL 5742 ScreenArray loudspeaker systems and 4642A subwoofers in each of the five auditoriums, along with JBL 8340A surround speakers in three auditoriums and JBL 8350 surround speakers in two auditoriums. Crown DSi 2000, 4000 and 6000 amplifiers power the systems. “The system has been designed to deliver its fullest output in all scenarios, with ease of use in mind,” said Ankush Agarwal, senior manager, marketing, at Harman Professional India. “It is capable of handling high sound levels with ample headroom and effectively reproduces soft whispers to the loudest bang.”
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The latter three continue to be associated fully with the Reliance Media Works’ Global Imaging Technology Center in Burbank, CA, advancing the state of art in image processing technologies being recognized. The Award is for the development of a unique and efficient system for the reduction of noise and other artifacts, thereby providing high quality images required by the filmmaking process. As per Academy notification, the achievement demonstrates a proven record of contributing significant value in the space of science and technology for the process of making motion pictures. Reliance MediaWorks Burbank has developed sophisticated proprietary software that delivers unparalleled results for a variety of applications including restoration, remastering, SD to HD up conversions, large
format films, new production emergency work, 3D correction, 2D to 3D conversion, and many more related to the media and entertainment industry. The company’s body of work includes film restoration for classics like Citizen Kane, Singin’ In The Rain, Casablanca, Sunset Boulevard, the Indiana Jones trilogy, the early Star Wars films, twenty James Bond films, and numerous classic Disney animated films. Due to the unique challenges of digital capture, our services continue to be in high demand with newer productions like Avatar; The Social Network; The ATeam; Eat, Pray, Love; and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. On being selected to receive an award, Kimball Thurston, lead Scientist at Reliance MediaWorks’ Technology Centre says “Being selected for this award is a very rigorous process, which proves that the technology that started well over 10 years ago has become a powerful tool in the movie making space, and that our peers and customers in Hollywood respect the technology as a unique offering. I am extremely proud to have helped create this technology and be honored with an award, and also proud of the rest of the team at RMW Burbank who continue to move the bar forward.” Commenting on this achievement, Anil Arjun, CEO of Reliance MediaWorks said, “We are extremely proud of the team and their invaluable contribution towards the development of the proprietary image processing technology. Technology and innovation has been the cornerstone of our strategy and it is a great honor for the company to have its technology and members receive this prestigious recognition from the Academy.”
Reliance MediaWorks Board Approves Strategic Structuring Reliance media works and a member of the Reliance group has announced that the board considered and approved the subsidiarisation of the Company’s Exhibition and Film and Media services businesses into separate 100% subsidiaries of Reliance MediaWorks. The transfer of businesses will be subject to the Shareholders approval. The proposed subsidiarisation will better position the company to pursue strategic growth opportunities in its specific businesses and enable the company to enhance its business, revenues and profitability and also expand products and service offerings. The subsidiarisation step is a precursor to invite strategic and private equity investors who have expressed a keen interest in investing in the specific businesses. In 2005, when Reliance Group acquired the controlling stake in the company, the facilities included a Motion Picture Processing lab in Mumbai and 24 cinema screens located in Maharashtra. Thereafter the Company has witnessed transformational growth and made strategic investments and scaled business operations that include the following: •
Worldwide BIG Cinemas screen count of over 530 screens with presence in India, USA, Malaysia and Nepal.
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State of art digital post production facilities for feature films, broadcast shows and television commercials.
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India’s largest Hollywood Benchmarked Studios which will comprise of 8 sound stages spread across 200,000 sq.ft within Film City, Mumbai.
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A 1200 member Media BPO in Navi Mumbai which offers content processing, image enhancement and restoration services, visual effects and 2D to 3D conversion services.
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Cutting edge services facilities in US, UK and Mumbai and allied presence in Russia and Japan.
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The television production division, BIG Synergy, which is regarded as one of the top players in the television programming industry.
The fixed asset base has increased by 329% and revenues by 548% over the past 5 years. Film and Media Services is expected to be a dominant contributor of the revenues with over 60% in FY13 on the strength of the thrust towards outsourcing from the Media BPO business.
Reliance MediaWorks to Expand Domestic Entertainment Services Portfolio Reliance MediaWorks Ltd., and a member of the Reliance group, is looking at expanding its domestic entertainment services portfolio across films, broadcast and television commercials through strategic alliances, capacity expansion and leveraging of existing relationships. Reliance MediaWorks is India’s largest service provider in the film post production services space and has offered varied services such as Motion Picture Processing, Digital Intermediate (DI), Digital Cinema mastering, Promos and trailer services and visual effects for 110 out of 114 Bollywood films that released in
2011. The company has handled DI and VFX for over 65 films in 2011 which includes award winning films like Rockstar, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara and The Dirty Picture. Additionally, company has recently started offering 3D Conversion services to Bollywood Studios and its first domestic project was Don 2. Reliance MediaWorks operates India’s largest Hollywood benchmarked studios where major events such as the Prestigious Filmfare Awards, films like Singham, Agneepath and several television shows and commercials have been shot. Currently the studios have three operational sound stages and the second phase comprising of five sound stages will be operational by mid 2012. Reliance MediaWorks also operates one of the world’s largest comprehensive digital restoration and content processing services facilities in India and has restored over 250 legacy films in 2011 which includes titles like Sholay, Laawaris, Devdas and Do Bhigha Zameen among others. Reliance MediaWorks has set up cutting edge post production facilities for broadcast shows and television commercials. The broadcast post has handled some of India’s biggest reality shows like X-Factor, India’s Got Talent and Just Dance. The TVC post has done over 250 commercials for brands like Tata Sky, Maruti, and Cadburys among others. To strengthen the services offerings in southern India market, Reliance MediaWorks has recently partnered with VenSat to expand its VFX, CG and Animation capabilities and create a studio in Chennai; and has also tied up with Annapurna Studios to manage and operate their studio facility and to operate and expand the Digital Post Production facility at the Hyderabad studios.
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Anil Ambani at Oscar Awards
Priyanka Chopra Named ‘Most Glamorous Diva‘
Shabana Azmi Honoured by New York City
Priyanka Chopra has beaten several top-notch Bollywood actresses to be crowned as the most glamorous diva by a television channel in Mumbai. The decision was based on the ratings given to her by fans and the film fraternity. Reliance Group chairman Anil Ambani walked the red carpet at the 84th Academy Awards at the Kodak Theatre, where three films produced by DreamWorks Studios, his coventure with Steven Speilberg, were nominated for 11 Oscars. Among the 11 nominations, Octavia Spencer fetched the Oscar for best supporting actress for her performance in “The Help”. Spencer was honoured with the golden statuette for her portrayal of bigmouthed maid Minny in “The Help”. Other than “The Help”, two other films of Reliance DreamWorks — “War Horse” and “Real Steel” — were nominated for various categories. “War Horse” and “The Help” were in the fray for best film award, which went to black and white silent film “The Artist”. “War Horse” was also nominated for sound editing, sound mixing, original score, art direction and cinematography. While “The Help”, directed by Tate Tylor, featured in the nomination line-up for best actress (Viola Davis) and best supporting actress (Jessica Chastain and Spencer), apart from the best picture category. Hugh Jackman-starrer sci-fi thriller “Real Steel” had one nomination for best achievement in visual effects. But the award went to “Hugo”. Ambani, who owns a 51 percent stake at DreamWorks Studios, attended the glittering event with his partners Spielberg and Stacey Snider.
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“I am being crowned now, after Miss World and Miss India, I never thought I will go again into a pageant and be crowned, but it feels awesome and I almost for a second got as nervous as I was during Miss World and thank you so much for this,” Priyanka said. The survey covered all aspects of her like style, acting skills and fan following. Piggy Chops has been able to carve a niche for herself in the industry despite not having any godfather. “Somebody like me, I am not from this industry, I started working when I was 17 years old, I came to Bombay with stars in my eyes and hoping that I could be the best and when your fans believe in you, it really feels that if I can do it, anyone can do it, because I am just like them. I am exactly who she is, she is a working girl and I am a working girl and you know it almost feels like a certain sense of acceptance,” she said. The contest ‘Big Love Show’ was conducted by television channel CBS and the 29-year-old along with several Bollywood actresses were seen competing for the coveted title.
Padma Bhushan awardee Shabana Azmi has been honoured by the city of New York for her contribution to cinema and her involvement with the movie industry here, becoming the first Indian actor to receive the honour from the city. The talented actress Shabana Azmi was presented with a ‘Proclamation by the City of New York’ March 23, 2012 honouring her “in recognition of her great contribution to the art of cinema and for her participation with the movie industry in New York City.” Azmi, 61, was presented with the proclamation by Patricia Kaufman, Executive Director of Motion Picture and Television Development from the office of New York Governor Andrew Cuomo as well as with a ‘Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition’ by New York Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney. The talented actress and social activist Shabana Azmi after receiving the honour said to the sources, “Coming from the city’s council in recognition of my work in cinema is obviously something that makes me very happy.” The talented actress is well known for her noble works, the sophisticated actress has worked determinedly for other causes, including funding for displaced Kashmiri migrants and relief for victims of the Latur earthquake, as per the reports.
Soumitra Chatterjee gets Phalke Award Iconic Bengali actor Soumitra Chatterjee said his being named for the Dada Saheb Phalke award - the highest honour in Indian cinema - is a recognition of his hard work in the last 53 years and expressed gratitude to directors like Satyajit Ray, Tapan Sinha and others for honing his acting skills. Chatterjee, 77, said it was an “emotional moment” for him and he would receive the award on behalf of the doyens of the Bengali movie industry whose guidance helped him evolve as an actor. “I am very happy. It is an emotional moment for me. I thank everybody. It is recognition of the hard work I have put in for the last 53 years. The people of my country have recognised my toil,” said Chatterjee. The Padama Bhushan awardees expressed his gratitude to directors like Satyajit Ray, Tapan Sinha and veteran actors like Chabi Biswas and Tulsi Chakraborty for honing his acting skills. Chatterjee regretted that the sublime work of actors like Biswas and Chakraborty went unrewarded. One of India‘s most talented actors, Chatterjee made his debut in 1959 with Ray‘s super-hit movie “Apur Sansar”. The film gave him the much needed platform, and he never had to look back. Chatterjee soon became Ray‘s favourite, and played the lead roles in most of the movie maker‘s classics including “Sonar Kella”, “Charulata”, and “Ghare Baire”. Apart from Ray, Chatterjee has worked with all internationally acclaimed directors of his time, including Mrinal Sen, Tapan Sinha and Tarun Majumdar. Some of his notable movies are “Jhinder Bandi”, “Koni”, “Kaapurush”, “Akash Kusum”, “Aranyer Din Ratri”, “Joy Baba Felunath”, “Teen Bhubaner Pare”, “Ganashatru” and “Sakah Prashakha”.
Academy Awards ceremony here. Directed by Daniel Junge and Pakistani filmmaker related stories winners, 84th Academy Awards Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, Saving Face follows several survivors, and narrates the tale of their fight for justice, and a Pakistani plastic surgeon who has returned to his homeland to help them restore their faces and their lives. The film beat The Barber of Birmingham, Foot Soldier of the Civil Rights Movement, God is the bigger Elvis, Incident in New Baghdad and The Tsunami and The Cherry Blossom to win the prestigious award.
The Padama Bhushan awardee has also worked with other famous directors such as Aparna Sen, Goutam Ghose and Rituparno Ghosh. Besides films, Chatterjee is also known for his passion for the stage where he has both acted and directed plays. He is also one of the all-time best elocutionists of Bengal. He has also received ‘The Officier des Arts et Metiers‘, the highest award for arts from France and lifetime achievement award from Italy.
Saving Face Honoured with Oscar Award Pakistani documentary film Saving Face, which uncovers the story of hundreds of people, mostly women who become acid attack victims, was honoured with the Oscar award for best documentary (short) at the 84th
In the best documentary (feature) category, the Oscar went to Undefeated directed by TJ Martin, Dan Lindsay and Rich Middlemas.
National Awards The National Awards Winners for 2012 has been announced. The Hindi film industry won several awards; Vidya Balan bagged the Best Actress award for her superlative performance in ‘The Dirty Picture’. Onir’s I AM received the Best Hindi film award, Partho Gupte of Stanley Ka Dabba fame won Best Child Actor, while Salman Khan’s Chillar Party team won 3 National awards including Best Children’s film. Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara won two – Best Choreography and Best Audiography. Ra One won an award in the Best VFX category.
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'Inshallah', 'Mindscape' Share National Award for Best Film on Social Issues
Ashvin Kumar's "Inshallah" on football and Arun Chadha's "Mindscape" about the differently abled's need for intimacy were jointly named the best film on social issues at the 59th National Awards announced here Wednesday. "Inshallah" is the tale of a Kashmiri child's dream to play football in Brazil and how life in a silent war gets in the way. "Mindscape" reveals the differently abled's need for intimacy, sexuality and identity. "Mindscape" has been produced by Public Service Broadcasting Trust, while "Inshallah" is Kumar's own production.
Another Presidential Honour for Madhur Bhandarkar He has made a different slot of social relevance for himself when it comes to movie making in Hindi Cinema. And no one has so far been able to come on the same playing level field as Madhur Bhandarkar, who
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continues to contribute some of the most entertaining and yet relevant movies of our times. He has been awarded the most prestigious National Awards for the work he has done so far. The Ministry of Human Resource Development, India now wants to acknowledge Madhur's contributions to Hindi language cinema under the Hindi Service Awards Scheme. On June 20, Madhur will be awarded with the Presidential Award, Gangasharan Singh Award, by President Pratibha Patil at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi. The award comprises of a certificate and a cheque of rupees one lakh. 28 people from different walks of life will be awarded this presidential award, for their contribution under the Hindi Service Awards Scheme, amongst who are filmmakers Girish Karnad, Shyam Benegal, Madhur and media person Pankaj Pachauri. This is going to be Madhur's fourth Presidential award. In 2002 and 2005, Dr APJ Kalam gave him the presidential award for Chandni Bar and Page 3 respectively, and in 2006 Smt. Patil gave him the presidential award for making Traffic Signal. When contacted, Madhur sounded elated and humbled, "Over the years not just the audience or the industry but also the Government of our country has supported and acknowledged my work. I am honoured and thankful to the HRD ministry for finding me befitting for this award," said Madhur.
Dia Mirza Wins IIFA 2012 Green Award Bollywood actress Dia Mirza won the IIFA 2012, Green award for her contribution towards a Greener environment. Dia Mirza said on receiving this honor, “To believe that you can make a difference is the beginning of change, to be recognized for your efforts is the catalyst that inspires you to further be the change that you want to see. I am grateful that IIFA continues to recognize efforts that are made in the direction of making our world a better place to live in, and I hope that I continue to be a small part of a movement that believes in doing their bit for today and tomorrow...” What made the occasion more special was a personalised message from Justice Verma (Former Chief justice of India and Chairperson, National Human Rights Commission), “Just heard that you have received the IIFA Green Award for your admirable work in the field of Environment protection, which is a fundamental duty of every citizen under Article 51A(g) of the Constitution, though neglected by most. You richly deserve the honour. I have been greatly impressed by your commitment for the cause with maturity far ahead of your age ever since you met me. Hope you continue the good work with the same vigour. Congratulations and best wishes for more future laurels.”
Irrfan Khan Makes an Impression on Hollywood Directors While his Paan Singh Tomar is running to packed houses and winning critical acclaim in India, it looks like Irrfan Khan is also making his presence felt in the
father in Ang Lee’s screen adaptation of the Booker Prize winning The Life of Pi. He has also come in for praise for his role on the US TV show In
international circuit.
“Irrfan’s importance in Hollywood is an interesting thing. A lot of directors are really starting to take notice of him and are looking for roles for Irrfan because he’s got such a wonderful reputation. There’s a show he did here (in the US) called In
The actor is currently part of some of the much-expected Hollywood films directed by celebrated filmmakers like Ang Lee and Marc Webb. He is playing crucial supporting roles in Webb’s Spiderman reboot The Amazing Spiderman (as Dr Ratha, a secondary villain); he will be seen as Pi’s
Treatment.
Treatment and you really got to see his wonderful abilities. Whether its Danny Boyle or Ang Lee, really very
strong directors are starting to take notice of this star, who comes from a land that some view as exotic and far away from us. But you realize with actors like Irrfan, how close they really are,” gushes Marc Webb.
Kamal Ropes in Hollywood Stunt Director for Climax Kamal Haasan’s magnum opus ‘Viswaroopam’ is making more headlines with each passing day. The latest is that Kamal has roped in Hollywood’s leading stunt director Lee Whittaker for the climax scene of the film that is currently being shot in Mumbai.
before the actual shot. Few sources further express that the safety element in these stunts were very minimal and Whittaker expressed that these very more dangerous than the stunts he has choreographed in Hollywood!
Whittaker is debuting in Indian cinema through this multi-lingual project and it is said that he initially This is an aerial stunt and Whittaker is refused to work on the film but was known for them. It features Kamal later okay with it after watching some and Rahul Bose who underwent of Kamal’s stunts in his earlier films. rehearsals from more than a week
It’s said to be a fight scene were Kamal Haasan who is known for getting into the skin of the character he plays and Rahul Bose have pulled off some daredevil stunts without any body double.
Anupam Kher Worked with De Niro the most exhilarating and elevating experience,” Anupam told IANS.
Veteran actor Anupam Kher got an opportunity to work with Hollywood superstar Robert De Nero and director David O’Russell in “The Silver Linings Playbook”
“The kind of discipline and professionalism they have, we have to force it because we are not used to that professionalism and discipline. But gradually that
and calls it the most exhilarating experience. “Shooting for ‘The Silver Linings…’ was the most amazing experience, working with two of my favourite
people, director David O’Russell and god of acting Robert De Niro. It was
professionalism is coming,” he added.
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• INSTA L LS •
PVR Expands its Footprint
PVR in the Twin City of Kolkata, Howrah PVR has announced the launch of its 4 screen multiplex at Avani Riverside Mall, Howrah, Kolkata. Rahul Bose renowned actor was also present to inaugurate the first multiplex of PVR in the city. PVR has spread its footprints in East India with the launch of its first multiplex in Howrah,
Kolkata. The multiplex is spread across an area of 32, 820 sqft, with a capacity of 1,186 seats and will provide an exceptional digital movie experience to the cinegoers of the city. With this launch PVR stands at 162 screens in 37 cinemas in 21 cities across India.
PVR for the first time, with the launch of property in East, is coming up with the Grab and Go counter at the Box Office area outside the cinema and will be targeted to non-movie goer as well. One can buy popcorn, candies, muffins and more from the counter while strolling at the mall. The launch is a part of PVR's organic growth strategy of expanding its presence across Pan India. PVR in east will bring a new cinematic wave that its screens will offer to the city's audiences. Present at the occasion, Rahul Bose, said "It gives me an immense pleasure to be a part of the launch of PVR's first multiplex in the city of legends. Multiplexes have always acted as a route to supply and fulfil the growing demand of entertainment. With the entry of PVR in Kolkata, I am hopeful that movie lovers will get to feel an unmatched movie experience."
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• INSTALLS •
Speaking on the occasion, Sanjeev Kumar Bijli, Joint Managing Director, PVR said, "We are extremely delighted to announce the launch of our first multiplex in East. The city Kolkata had been on our expansion radar since long and we are happy to expand our footprints in East India finally. With the launch we now have our presence in all the four regions of our country. The people of Bengal are true connoisseurs of cinema and we are expecting a positive response from our patrons here. We are looking at investing about 100-150 crores this year and will add 70 - 75 numbers of screens across 28 cities in the year 2012." PVR Howrah has been designed in the most distinctive manner keeping in mind the uniqueness of the city. The entire creative is based on the features picked from Bengali culture and converted into the contemporary and chic design using cutting edge technology with the use of plasmas and state of the art facility. The fantastic artwork of the multiplex is reflected with the extensive use of the sacred RED colour. The vault is highlighted with visuals picked from great Bengali cinema veterans like Satyajit Ray, Aparna Sen, Rituparno Ghosh and many more. The idea of the multiplex is to provide a cinema experience which is a combination of tradition with modern take on it to the audience of Howrah and Kolkata. The cinema also boasts of prime and mainstream seating arrangement for the comfort of audience. The 2K projection screens and JBL sound system are packaged to deliver the ultimate movie experience to the cinema lovers of Kolkata. PVR in East also offers the option of lavish candy bar and range of food and beverages in its Grab & Go counter at competitive prices ranging from 45 100 that will make the movie watching a complete entertainment experience.
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• INSTA L LS •
PVR in Maharashtra 'Nanded' PVR has announced the launch of its 4 screen multiplex at Treasure Bazaar Mall in Nanded, Maharashtra. The multiplex is spread across an area of 47,988 sqft, with a capacity of 1,004 seats and is divided into three categories of Silver, Gold and Platinum. It will provide an unmatched cinema experience and hygienic environment with basic facilities at attractive pricing ranging from 50 - 100. With this launch PVR now stands at 166 screens in 38 cinemas in 22 cities across India. Pvr has considering the demand of movie lovers in Nanded and to ensure accessibility factor PVR has launched 'PVR Talkies' - the people's cinema for tier II & III cities to reach out to its patrons present in Nanded. PVR Talkies now has presence in four
cities including Vadodara, Latur and Aurangabad. Speaking on the occasion, Ajay Bijli, Chairman and Managing Director, PVR Ltd. said, "We are pleased to announce the launch of PVR talkies in Nanded. This is our third PVR talkies in Maharashtra after in the cities of Latur and Aurangabad. The launch has been planned keeping in mind the growing needs of the discerning audience in tier II & III cities for a quality cinema viewing experience. We have a target of operating 500 screens by the end of 2014 and of this around 100 screens would be set up in smaller towns and cities." Commenting on the opening, Manish Kalani, Chairman &
Managing Director, Entertainment World Developers, "We are extremely delighted with the opening of PVR Cinemas in our city. PVR has constantly evolved itself in the multiplex space and the Talkies format is a perfect way to reach out to their audiences in smaller cities like Nanded. With digital projection, high-quality sound system, and comfortable seats in all Audis, PVR will surely provide an ultimate movie experience to the people and we hope to receive a positive response from the people here." PVR Nanded has been designed in the distinctive manner and has a variety of F & B options available at reasonable prices to provide a complete cinematic experience to its patrons.
First Multiplex in Jalandhar PVR Ltd., the leading entertainment company in India, has announced the launch of its four screen multiplex at the Neopolis mall near BMC Chowk, Jalandhar in Punjab. With the launch in Jalandhar PVR now has presence in three cities of Punjab including Chandigarh and Ludhiana. The multiplex is spread across an area of 45,000 sqft, with a capacity of 1,100 seats and will provide an exceptional digital movie experience to the cinegoers of the city at a pricing ranging from 100 - 350. The audis are divided into three categories of Normal, Prime and Gold. With the launch in Jalandhar, PVR today stands at 170 screens in 39 cinemas in 23 cities across India. PVR for the first time, with the launch of property in Jalandhar, is coming up with the Pick and Pay Counter which will offer a wide range of food categories ranging from cookies to wafers to sandwiches to chocolates and many
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more at very attractive prices. The launch is a part of PVR's organic growth strategy of expanding its presence across Pan India. PVR in Jalandhar will bring a new cinematic wave that its screens will offer to the city's audiences. On the occasion, Ajay Bijli, Chairman and Managing Director, PVR Ltd. said, "We are extremely pleased to launch PVR Cinemas in Jalandhar. We have launched PVR in the city keeping in mind the growing needs of the discerning audience for a quality cinema viewing experience. We are happy to increase our footprints in Punjab as Jalandhar will be the third city after Chandigarh and Ludhiana. PVR launch in Jalandhar has been thoughtfully designed keeping in mind the flavor of the city which replicates the local pattern of Punjab. We always believe in giving an extra to our patrons and expect a positive response from our audience in Punjab. We have a target of
operating 500 screens by the end of 2015 with many more screens set up in Punjab." PVR Jalandhar has been designed in the most distinctive manner keeping in mind the uniqueness of the city. The entire design replicates local Punjab patterns i.e. "the phulkari pattern" which is an intricate part of the interior design. The fantastic artwork of the multiplex is reflected with the use of warm color and using earthy shades of beiges and brown. The gold and red colors are also used to uplift the design of the property. The pyramid cal suspended ceiling feature with gold leafing stands out completely and provide a boldest look to the property. The 2K projection screens with 3D enabled and JBL sound system along with 7.1. Dolby Digital Sound is packaged to deliver the ultimate movie experience to the cinema lovers of Punjab.
• INSTALLS •
PVR Expands in Madhya Pradesh PVR Has announced on May 8th the launch of its 3 screen multiplex at Treasure Bazaar Mall in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. The multiplex is spread across an area of 27, 254 sqft, with a capacity of 821 seats. With this launch PVR now stands at 173 screens in 40 cinemas in 24 cities across India. The pious city of Ujjain represents an interesting blend of age old legacy and the modern day lifestyle. This is the cultural city of Madhya Pradesh that allures thousands of people to come here every year. PVR considering the needs and preferences of all the people in Ujjain promises to provide an unmatched movie experience and hygienic environment with basic facilities at attractive pricing ranging from 50 - 120. PVR has always believed in giving the consumers an ultimate cinema viewing experience. PVR being the leader in the multiplex business understands that the customer's requirements vary from a metro vis a vis a smaller city. Therefore considering the demand of movie lovers in Ujjain and to ensure accessibility factor PVR has launched PVR Talkies - the people's cinema for tier II and III cities to reach out to its patrons present in Ujjain.
Speaking on the occasion, Ajay Bijli, Chairman and Managing Director, PVR Ltd. said, "We are pleased to announce the launch of our first PVR Talkies model in Madhya Pradesh after our successful run as a mainstream cinema in Indore. PVR Talkies has been successful in cities across the nation and we hope to receive an overwhelming response from the city of Ujjain. The launch has been planned keeping in mind the growing needs of the discerning audience in tier II and III cities for a quality cinema viewing experience. We have a target of operating 500 screens by the end of 2015 and of this around 100 screens would be set up in smaller towns and cities." Commenting on the opening, Manish Kalani, Chairman and Managing Director, Entertainment World developers, "We are extremely pleased to form an association with PVR Cinemas. They are the leaders in the entertainment space and we are delighted with the opening of PVR Cinemas in our city. PVR has constantly evolved itself in the multiplex space and the Talkies format is a perfect way to reach out to their audiences in smaller cities like Ujjain. With digital projection, high-
quality sound system, and comfortable seats in all Audis, PVR will surely provide an ultimate movie experience to the people and we hope to receive a positive response from the people here." PVR Ujjain has been designed in the distinctive manner keeping in mind the uniqueness of the city. The auditoriums are designed in red colour scheme with state of art technology to enhance the experience. The ceiling has a vault with circular spread of openings reflecting diffused lighting accentuating nice ambience wit. The cinema also offers variety of food and beverage options available at reasonable prices. The scrumptious vegetarian food options agree to the religious sentiments of the people in the pious city of Ujjain.
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• INSTA L LS •
Two Projectors - Single Server
First Commercial 4K 3D at Jagadamba, Vishakapatnam Qube Cinema brings High Frame Rate Playback 240fps and Dual Projector 4K, Multi-IMB Sync to Jagadamba Theatre - Streaming Content to Two Projectors from a Single Server. The company will demonstrate industry-leading data throughput rates at Jagadamba theatre with the Qube XP-I server paired with the Qube Xi 4K Integrated Media Block (IMB). Streaming content to two Barco DP 4K-32B(Guinness Record Holder for World’s brightest) projectors, the system can support high frame rate content, or deliver 4K 3D from a single server. Already seeing installations on numerous screens worldwide, the XP-I server and Xi IMB provide exhibitors with a proven technology for the 4K stereoscopic and for new High Frame Rate (HFR) films that is one of the first ever to be installed in the world at Jagadamba Theatre and was showcased at CinemaCon 2012, Las Vegas.
speeds of the Qube XP-I server make it possible for a single server to drive two synchronized projectors each with its own IMB with dual streams of 4K content. Qube is going far beyond the competition and delivering today, tomorrow’s technology and the system is easy to operate and flattening the learning curve for projectionists. With 2K content, the Qube digital cinema system can deliver up to 120 fps playback. With 4K content it can provide up to 60 fps playback. Alternatively, the high data throughput can be used to drive dual 4K or dual 2K projectors for stunning 4K 3D at up to 30 fps and 2K 3D up to 240 fps.
The Qube XP-I server has the throughput to play back at 1,000 Mbps – four times the DCI bit rate specification of 250 Mbps. The data
V. Jagadish Kumar Managing Director, Jagadamba Theatre
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Mr. Jagadish Kumar, owner and managing director of Jagadamba Theatre is very happy with the installation and says, “ nowadays the home theatre technology are giving better quality picture to the common man. Home theatres are changing to better heights and the people are quiet aware of the technology that is brought into the market with the demanding trends and the technology that people are using, are the best ones in market available. I needed and wanted to upgrade the system to provide a better picture quality to the public on screen who take out time from their busy schedule and come to entertain themselves in the theatre. I wanted to justify their time spent on watching a movie in the theatre and offer them an experience like never before.”
Rockline Multiplex
A Blessing to Kannada Film Producers It's long since the Kannada film producers have been complaining they don't get enough space for screening of their films in Bangalore multiplexes. Rockline Venkatesh a well known actor and producer instead of complaining has taken a step forward and constructed Rockline Multiplex in Rockline mall near Peenya in Bangalore which will prioritize the screening of Kannada films, thus providing a solution to this problem. Theatre Magic (TM) speaks to Rockline Venkatesh (RV) and gives an insight journey of Rockline Multiplex. TM – Being a well known actor and producer, what inspired you to enter into the multiplex business? RV – I am not only an actor and producer but a film distributor too and the hurdles that I have faced as a producer while releasing a movie in Karnataka and Bangalore were terrible and alarming. It was really heartrending to know that beautiful Kannada movies always had a problem with screen space in multiplexes and thus lacked mass appreciation in the state. I wanted to put an end to this dilemma and thus decided to erect Rockline Multiplex where Kannada movies would be released in the market without the producer facing problems.
RV – Being from the entertainment industry, I know what an audience would like to see. I have just created it with the technical knowledge that I have developed over the years being in the industry. The project did go on smoothly, all thanks to the many technical people and their support who I know in the industry, who were just a call away when I was trapped with some difficulty or needed an advice on what was best and how to go about it.
Rockline Venkatesh Proprietor, Rockline Mall and Cinemas
TM – Could you please elaborate on Rockline Multiplex? RV – As I mentioned above Rockline Multiplex's main focus and priority will always be Kannada movies. " It will be the Kannada Centre" Even Hollywood, Bollywood and Tollywood movies will be screened depending on the screen availability and the release of a Blockbuster movie but the priority will always be Kannada movies. We also have the facility to screen 3D movies in the multiplex. TM – What expectations do you have from Rockline Multiplex, business and monetary wise?
TM – What is the main objective of Rockline Multiplex? RV – Rockline Multiplex's main objective is to entertain people providing them with the best experience of quality sound and visual screen effects. The focus being on the sound quality and viewer's entertainment rather than a multiplex business or investment. TM – Did you come across any difficulties, challenges while on the project? April-June 2012
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RV – My main motive is to provide screen space for Kannada movies in the Multiplex. I want the audience to have a great time and get entertained with great sound and great screen effects. People are now ready to spend if there is quality and entertainment and thus, I am sure the business will be good. TM – The location of the Multiplex is far from the main Bangalore city, won't that be an issue? RV – I truly feel that every part of the city is the main part of the city. If malls and multiplexes made up a main city centre then now we have one in Peenya, thus making it the main city centre. There is a lot of potential in this area, and no multiplexes are located in the vicinity, and the people living close by don't have to travel a long way to watch movies and get entertained because we have brought one on their doorstep. And now the times are changing, people are ready to try out everything new. TM – Your vision and mission for the multiplex? RV – The vision is to see it grow into
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a multiplex chain targeting other areas and the mission is to keep the standards of quality sound and quality effects equivalent throughout all multiplexes. TM – What are the strengths and strategies of the Multiplex? RV – No particular strategies are used since we do not treat it like a business. Our strength lies in the skilled, trained and experience people who handle the whole coordination of the multiplex, making it an awesome experience. TM – How important is sound in the Theatre Hall? RV – Sound is the most important part of the movie and whereas Kannada movies are concerned the sound effects are always kept high. The multiplex is calibrated with all the latest technology, good acoustics and good speakers. TM – Any strategy to survive in the competitive market? RV – We are not carrying out any branding and promotional activities for the multiplex. The only way it will get known will be by word of mouth through the audience. I am sure we
don't require any out door marketing tools because we want the experience to remain fresh in the minds of people and share it with others. TM – What are the future plans? RV – Our future plan is to open a chain of Rockline multiplexes all over Karnataka, next being to construct a multiplex in Mysore. But right now our focus is completely on the Peenya Rockline Multiplex and everything will happen with time.