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Indian cinema

Box Office Revival Drives Indian Film Industry Back to Theatre-First Releases

/ Media Entertainment & Art Community

India’s entertainment industry is witnessing a major shift as the strong comeback of cinema halls encourages filmmakers and studios to once again prioritise theatrical releases before digital premieres. After the pandemic pushed many movies directly to streaming platforms, rising box office collections are restoring confidence in the traditional release model. Industry experts say successful big-screen performances have proven that theatres remain a powerful revenue source, especially for large-scale commercial films. As a result, producers are increasingly choosing cinemas as the first destination for new releases, followed later by OTT platforms. At the same time, streaming services have become more cautious in acquiring film rights and are focusing on selective content investments. This has further strengthened the appeal of theatrical launches, where movies can generate immediate audience buzz and stronger earnings. The renewed theatre-first strategy is expected to benefit multiplex operators, distributors, and production houses, while OTT platforms may continue concentrating more on original web series and exclusive digital content. With audiences returning to cinemas for immersive movie experiences, the big screen is once again becoming the preferred launchpad for India’s film industry. Source: Economic Times  

Box Office Revival Drives Indian Film Industry Back to Theatre-First Releases Read More »

‘Dhurandhar 2’ Dominates Box Office: Crosses ₹1,000 Cr in India, ₹1,600 Cr Worldwide

/ Media Entertainment & Art Community

Dhurandhar The Revenge, directed by Aditya Dhar, is rewriting box office history with a blockbuster run both in India and overseas. The film has surpassed ₹1,000 crore nett at the domestic box office by the end of its third weekend, while its global gross has soared past ₹1,600 crore. Backed by Jio Studios and B62 Studios, the film continues to show strong momentum across markets, securing its place among the highest-grossing Indian films ever. The film opened with an impressive ₹690 crore in its first week, followed by ₹271 crore in the second. Its third weekend collections added another ₹80 crore, taking the total India nett to ₹1,041 crore and gross collections to ₹1,228 crore. Internationally, the film has contributed ₹394 crore, pushing the worldwide total to ₹1,622 crore. Beyond India, the film has achieved significant milestones. It has become the first Indian release to cross $25 million in North America and has also crossed €1 million in Germany—marking a strong expansion into key global markets. Industry records continue to fall, with the film registering the biggest opening for a Hindi film, the highest opening weekend globally, and the fastest climb across several revenue benchmarks. It has also emerged as the top-grossing Indian film in North America and surpassed the lifetime overseas earnings of its first installment within just 10 days. With sustained collections even into its third weekend, Dhurandhar 2 is showing no signs of slowing down, reinforcing its status as a global box office phenomenon. Source: Economic Times  

‘Dhurandhar 2’ Dominates Box Office: Crosses ₹1,000 Cr in India, ₹1,600 Cr Worldwide Read More »

Homebound advances in Oscars 2026 race, brings Indian cinema back into global spotlight

/ Media Entertainment & Art Community

Indian cinema has once again made its presence felt on the global awards stage, with Homebound moving into the next round of voting for the Best International Feature Film category at the Oscars 2026. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) announced that 15 films from around the world have been shortlisted from a pool of entries submitted by 86 countries and regions. India’s Homebound is among this elite list, standing alongside films from Argentina, Brazil, France, Germany, Iraq, Japan, Jordan, Norway, Palestine, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, Taiwan, and Tunisia. The shortlisted titles include Belen (Argentina), The Secret Agent (Brazil), It Was Just an Accident (France), Sound of Falling (Germany), The President’s Cake (Iraq), Kokuho (Japan), All That’s Left of You (Jordan), Sentimental Value (Norway), Palestine 36 (Palestine), No Other Choice (South Korea), Sirat (Spain), Late Shift (Switzerland), Left-Handed Girl (Taiwan), and The Voice of Hind Rajab (Tunisia). Confirming the development, The Academy shared an update on its official social media platforms, noting that the selected films have advanced to the next stage of voting. The final Oscar nominations are scheduled to be announced on Thursday, January 22. Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, Homebound has already enjoyed an impressive international journey, premiering at major film festivals including Cannes, Toronto International Film Festival, and the Melbourne International Film Festival. With its inclusion in the Oscar shortlist, the film has achieved a rare distinction, becoming only the fifth Indian film in the Academy Awards’ 98-year history to reach this stage in the International Feature Film category. Starring Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa in lead roles, the film explores the lives of childhood friends Shoaib and Chandan, whose shared aspiration to join the police force shapes their destinies. Janhvi Kapoor plays a key role, adding emotional depth to a narrative rooted in friendship, ambition, and the social pressures faced by young people in contemporary India. Ishaan Khatter marked the achievement by sharing the news on his Instagram stories. Homebound is produced by Karan Johar, Adar Poonawalla, and Apoorva Mehta, with co-producers Marijke deSouza and Melita Toscan Du Plantier. The project also boasts acclaimed filmmaker Martin Scorsese and Pravin Khairnar as executive producers. The film’s progression in the Oscars race is being seen as a significant moment for Indian cinema, reinforcing its growing resonance on the international stage. Source: ANI

Homebound advances in Oscars 2026 race, brings Indian cinema back into global spotlight Read More »

Netflix Partners with Yash Raj Films to Stream Iconic Bollywood Classics Worldwide

/ Media Entertainment & Art Community

Netflix has announced a landmark collaboration with Yash Raj Films (YRF) to bring some of the studio’s most beloved movies to global audiences, celebrating the legacy of Indian cinema. The partnership will see a phased rollout of YRF’s celebrated titles, coinciding with key festivals, film milestones, and star birthdays — allowing viewers in over 190 countries to rediscover the magic of Bollywood. To mark Shah Rukh Khan’s 60th birthday, nine of his iconic films — including Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Mohabbatein, Dil To Pagal Hai, Veer-Zaara, and Chak De! India — begin streaming this weekend. Following this, Salman Khan’s hit films Ek Tha Tiger, Sultan, and Tiger Zinda Hai will debut on December 27, celebrating his birthday. Audiences can also revisit evergreen YRF classics such as Chandni, Kabhi Kabhie, Vijay, Lamhe, and Silsila starting November 14. On December 5, Netflix will add a special Ranveer Singh collection featuring Band Baaja Baaraat, Ladies vs Ricky Bahl, Kill Dil, Befikre, and Gunday. Adding to the festive cheer, 34 more YRF titles — including Bunty Aur Babli, Hum Tum, Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic, Mujhse Dosti Karoge, and Ta Ra Rum Pum — will stream between December 12 and 28, with two new releases dropping daily. The celebration extends into 2026, beginning with the Dhoom trilogy on November 28 and the Mardaani series from January 22. A special Valentine’s Week collection featuring romantic hits like Saathiya, Ishaqzaade, Bachna Ae Haseeno, and Salaam Namaste will premiere on February 7. Akshaye Widhani, CEO of Yash Raj Films, said the collaboration will allow audiences worldwide to “experience the colour, the music, and the magic of India and Indian cinema that YRF has always celebrated.” Monika Shergill, Vice President of Content at Netflix India, called it “a milestone for Indian cinema on Netflix,” emphasizing that the partnership deepens Netflix’s commitment to showcasing the diversity and emotion of Indian storytelling. Source: PTI

Netflix Partners with Yash Raj Films to Stream Iconic Bollywood Classics Worldwide Read More »

Festive Cheer Boosts Box Office: PVR INOX Records Over 50% Occupancy as Moviegoers Flock Back to Cinemas

/ Media Entertainment & Art Community
ardorcomm news

PVR INOX Ltd is celebrating a blockbuster Dussehra weekend, witnessing a remarkable surge in footfall as audiences return to theatres in large numbers. The multiplex giant reported over 50% occupancy across its cinemas, welcoming more than 8.5 lakh movie lovers during the extended Dussehra–Gandhi Jayanti weekend. “Our theatres are buzzing with festive energy as audiences across India return to enjoy the magic of cinema,” said Gautam Dutta, CEO (Revenue & Operations), PVR INOX Ltd. With the second quarter showing strong growth momentum, the company expressed optimism for the upcoming festive season, which promises a packed lineup of anticipated releases. Titles like Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1, Jolly LLB, and One Battle After Another headline the Bollywood and Hollywood slate, while regional films continue to impress audiences nationwide. Regional blockbusters such as Idli Kadai (Tamil/Telugu), Maria (Tamil), Vada Pav (Marathi), and Nikka Zaildar 4 (Punjabi) are driving impressive box-office numbers, reflecting the vibrant diversity of India’s cinematic landscape. Currently, PVR INOX operates 1,757 screens across 353 properties in 111 cities in India and Sri Lanka, reaffirming its position as the country’s leading multiplex chain. Source: PTI

Festive Cheer Boosts Box Office: PVR INOX Records Over 50% Occupancy as Moviegoers Flock Back to Cinemas Read More »

‘Homebound’ picked as India’s official Oscar entry for 2026

/ Media Entertainment & Art Community
ardorcomm news

Hindi film Homebound has been selected as India’s official submission for the 96th Academy Awards in the Best International Feature Film category. The announcement was made in Kolkata by filmmaker N. Chandra, chairperson of the 12-member selection committee, on Friday. Chandra revealed that 24 films across various Indian languages were in the race, calling the final choice “a very difficult decision.” He added, “We were not judges but mentors, looking for storytellers who have truly left an impact.” Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and jointly produced by Karan Johar and Adar Poonawalla, Homebound features Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor in pivotal roles. The film follows the journey of two childhood friends from a modest village in northern India as they pursue a police job that offers them long-sought dignity and recognition. Source: PTI  

‘Homebound’ picked as India’s official Oscar entry for 2026 Read More »

71st National Film Awards 2025: Full Winners List and Highlights

/ Article/Stories

The 71st National Film Awards, one of the most revered recognitions in Indian cinema, have been officially announced, honouring the best in filmmaking, performances, and technical brilliance from across the country. Known for their credibility and impartiality, the National Awards stand apart from other honours in the Indian film industry by prioritising artistic and cinematic excellence over commercial success. Administered by the Directorate of Film Festivals and presented by the President of India, these awards celebrate films certified by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) during the previous calendar year (January 1 to December 31). A jury, consisting of noted film personalities, undertakes the task of screening entries and selecting winners across categories and languages. This year’s awards reflect a powerful blend of storytelling, technical achievement, and strong performances, cutting across regional and mainstream cinema. From high-profile Bollywood blockbusters to intimate regional dramas, the winners showcased the diversity and depth of Indian filmmaking. Major Acting Honours Best Actor was jointly awarded to Shah Rukh Khan for Jawan and Vikrant Massey for 12th Fail. This marked a significant milestone in Khan’s career as he bagged his first National Award for acting. Best Actress went to Rani Mukerji for her emotionally charged role in Mrs Chatterjee Vs Norway, which highlighted the struggles of a mother caught in an international legal battle. Supporting Performances Recognised Best Supporting Actor honours were shared between Vijayaraghavan (Pookkalam) and Muthupettai Somu Bhaskar (Parking). Best Supporting Actress was jointly awarded to Urvashi (Ullozhukku) and Janaki Bodiwala (Vash). Top Feature Films by Language Best Feature Film overall: 12th Fail Best Hindi Film: Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery Best Telugu Film: Bhagavanth Kesari Best Tamil Film: Parking Best Malayalam Film: Ullozhukku Best Kannada Film: Kandeelu: The Ray of Hope Best Marathi Film: Shyamchi Aai Best Bengali Film: Deep Fridge Best Gujarati Film: Vash Best Punjabi Film: Godday Godday Chaa Best Odia Film: Pushkara Best Assamese Film: Rongatapu 1982 These selections showcase the cultural and linguistic diversity of Indian cinema, reaffirming the National Film Awards’ commitment to inclusivity. Technical Excellence and Direction Best Director: Sudipto Sen for The Kerala Story, praised for its bold narrative and technical finesse. Best Choreography: Vaibhavi Merchant for Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani Best Action Direction: Nandu and Prudhvi for Hanu-Man Best Lyrics: Kasarla Shyam for Balagam Best Music Direction: G.V. Prakash Kumar (Songs) for Vaathi Harshavardhan Rameshwar (Background Score) for Animal Performance in Music and Sound Best Male Playback Singer: P.V.N. S. Rohit for Baby Best Female Playback Singer: Shilpa Rao for Jawan Best Sound Design: Sachin Sudhakaran & Hariharan for Animal Other Key Technical Awards Best Cinematography: Prasanthanu Mohapatra for The Kerala Story Best Editing: Midhun Murali for Pookkaalam Best Production Design: Mohandas for 2018 – Everyone is a Hero Best Makeup: Shrikanth Desai for Sam Bahadur Best Costume Design: Sachin, Divya, Nidhhi for Sam Bahadur Special Mention: M.R. Radhakrishnan (Re-recording mixer) for Animal Final Thoughts The 71st National Film Awards not only celebrated artistic and cinematic triumphs but also reflected the evolving landscape of Indian cinema, where regional films continue to shine alongside mainstream blockbusters. The event acknowledged both legendary figures and fresh voices, reinforcing the relevance of storytelling that resonates across audiences and regions. Shah Rukh Khan’s long-awaited National Award win and the sweeping recognition for 12th Fail stood out as emotional and symbolic moments, while the inclusion of underrepresented languages and filmmakers demonstrated the Awards’ commitment to embracing India’s cinematic mosaic.

71st National Film Awards 2025: Full Winners List and Highlights Read More »

Cinepolis Eyes Double-Digit Growth in India Backed by Blockbuster Releases and Expansion Plans

/ Media Entertainment & Art Community

Cinepolis, the Mexican cinema giant, is targeting strong double-digit revenue growth in its Indian operations this year, banking on a robust lineup of Hollywood, Bollywood, and regional films to lure audiences back to theatres. The company is also expanding its footprint, aiming to open 20–25 new screens across the country. Devang Sampat, Managing Director of Cinepolis India, said that this year’s impressive slate of films—spanning major Hollywood titles like Jurassic World: Rebirth and F1—combined with regional and Hindi-language blockbusters, could significantly boost footfall. However, theatre attendance still remains roughly 20% below pre-pandemic levels. “Hollywood, Bollywood, and regional cinema are all showing strength this year,” Sampat noted, adding that aggressive marketing collaborations with shopping malls and production studios will be key to driving admissions. Cinema chains are facing intensified competition from digital streaming platforms, live sports, and concerts, yet Cinepolis remains optimistic. Globally, the company operates 6,800 screens, with 485 in India alone. While Sampat declined to share 2024 revenue or profit figures, he stated that the chain has traditionally witnessed annual growth in the high single-digit to low double-digit range—excluding pandemic years. As per industry reports, Cinepolis generated ₹13.46 billion (approx. $156.6 million) in revenue for FY24, marking a 31% increase year-over-year. It also recorded a net profit of ₹321 million, its first annual profit in over five years. Meanwhile, rival PVR Inox, the largest multiplex operator in India, is expected to grow its revenue by around 18% in the current fiscal year. The company is planning to expand further by adding 100–110 screens to its network, which already exceeds 1,700. Analysts project that India’s multiplex industry will see a 20%–25% revenue surge in FY25, powered by high-profile releases like Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, Rajinikanth’s Coolie, and Rishab Shetty’s Kantara: Chapter 1, according to Shobit Singhal, a research analyst at Anand Rathi. Source: Reuters

Cinepolis Eyes Double-Digit Growth in India Backed by Blockbuster Releases and Expansion Plans Read More »

Restored ‘Sholay’ with Original Ending Set for World Premiere in Italy to Mark 50th Anniversary

/ Media Entertainment & Art Community

An uncut, newly restored version of the legendary Bollywood classic Sholay is set to make its global debut at the Il Cinema Ritrovato Festival in Bologna, Italy, on June 27. The film will be screened on the iconic open-air screen at Piazza Maggiore, celebrating 50 years since its original release in 1975. This special version includes never-before-seen footage and the original ending — where the iconic villain Gabbar Singh meets his end at the hands of Thakur, a sequence that was removed from the original theatrical cut following censorship by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The restoration is the result of a three-year collaboration between Film Heritage Foundation and Sippy Films Pvt. Ltd., aiming to bring director Ramesh Sippy’s full vision to global audiences for the first time. Widely considered one of the greatest films in Indian cinema history, Sholay starred an ensemble cast including Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, Sanjeev Kumar, Jaya Bachchan, and Hema Malini. Reflecting on the film, Amitabh Bachchan shared in a press note that working on Sholay was unforgettable and its unexpected rise from initial box office disappointment to record-breaking success was an emotional journey. “Even 50 years later, I hope it continues to captivate audiences across the globe,” he said. Dharmendra, who played the beloved Veeru, called Sholay the “eighth wonder of the world,” praising its iconic dialogues by Salim-Javed and Sippy’s direction. He fondly recalled unforgettable scenes, especially Jai’s tragic death, as some of Indian cinema’s most powerful moments. Producer Shehzad Sippy, representing the legacy of his grandfather G.P. Sippy, revealed that while the restoration process was long and challenging, the discovery of the original climax and deleted scenes made it all worthwhile. “This has been a labour of love. I’m excited for the film to start its new journey,” he said. Film Heritage Foundation’s Shivendra Singh Dungarpur also noted the restoration challenges, particularly the lack of an original 70mm print or camera negative. “Despite the hurdles, we have worked meticulously to do justice to this cinematic milestone,” he stated, looking forward to watching Sholay under the open sky in Bologna with thousands of international film lovers. The world premiere of Sholay in its restored form promises to reignite the magic of this timeless classic for a whole new generation of viewers. Source: Indian Express

Restored ‘Sholay’ with Original Ending Set for World Premiere in Italy to Mark 50th Anniversary Read More »

Warner Bros. Pictures, Bhanushali Studios, and JOAT Films Join Forces for Five-Film Collaboration to Adapt Hollywood Classics for India

/ Media Entertainment & Art Community

In a landmark move for cross-cultural cinema, Warner Bros. Pictures has entered a strategic alliance with Bhanushali Studios Limited (BSL) and JOAT Films to produce five Indian adaptations of iconic Warner Bros. films. The collaboration aims to reinterpret celebrated Hollywood stories with a distinctly Indian flavor, weaving in the country’s cultural nuances while preserving the universal themes that made the originals global favorites. This initiative marks a significant step toward bringing international storytelling into the local cinematic mainstream, with Warner Bros. Pictures leading global distribution to ensure these new versions reach audiences far beyond Indian borders. Commenting on the partnership, Denzil Dias, Vice President and Managing Director of Warner Bros. Pictures India, emphasized the potential of the Indian market: “India is home to one of the most dynamic and mature film industries in the world. Our collaboration is about merging Warner Bros.’ rich legacy with local storytelling expertise to craft narratives that deeply connect with Indian viewers while still retaining global appeal.” Vinod Bhanushali, Founder and Chairman of Bhanushali Studios, expressed enthusiasm about the creative potential of the venture: “This partnership offers an incredible platform to reimagine Warner Bros.’ classics through an Indian lens—amplifying emotion, scale, and cultural essence for both domestic and international audiences.” Jack Nguyen of JOAT Films also shared his excitement, stating, “We’re thrilled to collaborate with BSL in adapting select titles from Warner Bros.’ extraordinary catalogue for the Indian audience. These films will be carefully chosen to align with local tastes while maintaining the integrity of the original stories.” This collaboration marks a new chapter in Indo-Hollywood synergy, promising a blend of global storytelling and local sensibilities. Source: PTI  

Warner Bros. Pictures, Bhanushali Studios, and JOAT Films Join Forces for Five-Film Collaboration to Adapt Hollywood Classics for India Read More »