Exclusive: Lionsgate India is teaming with Vikram Malhotra’s Abundantia Entertainment and Kavita Sharma Gandhi’s Efar Films for a pair of movies.
Lionsgate, Airlift producer Abundantia and content developer and distributor Efar Films are lining up the films, which are billed as “a genre-bending adventure” and a “rom-com like no other.”
Details on the pics are scant, but the first will blend comedy with action in a story “that promises thrills and drama loaded with fun.” The romantic comedy will include “loveable and memorable characters.” Scripting is underway on both, with “exciting, top-of-the-line create talent” leading them.
“We are delighted to collaborate with Abundantia Entertainment and Efar Films on two exciting upcoming projects,” said Rohit Jain, President of Lionsgate Play Asia. “The projects underscore our commitment to delivering innovative and culturally resonant films to audience world over, and we are thrilled to bring this to life for our audiences in India.
Lionsgate, Airlift producer Abundantia and content developer and distributor Efar Films are lining up the films, which are billed as “a genre-bending adventure” and a “rom-com like no other.”
Details on the pics are scant, but the first will blend comedy with action in a story “that promises thrills and drama loaded with fun.” The romantic comedy will include “loveable and memorable characters.” Scripting is underway on both, with “exciting, top-of-the-line create talent” leading them.
“We are delighted to collaborate with Abundantia Entertainment and Efar Films on two exciting upcoming projects,” said Rohit Jain, President of Lionsgate Play Asia. “The projects underscore our commitment to delivering innovative and culturally resonant films to audience world over, and we are thrilled to bring this to life for our audiences in India.
- 5/8/2024
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Patriot Games
The Hong Kong government has licensed the broadcast rights to the Summer Olympic Games in Paris. It intends to relicense the rights to four TV broadcasters in the city – Tvb, ViuTV, Hoy TV and government-owned Rthk. While in most territories, broadcasters negotiate directly with the International Olympic Committee or its agents, the Hong Kong government previously intervened in bidding for rights to the Tokyo Olympics, held in 2021. It also organized large public screenings in shopping malls.
“By procuring the broadcasting rights for these two games in Hong Kong, members of the public will be able to enjoy the Paris Og and PG [Paralympic Games] on television free of charge, and to cheer for Mainland and Hong Kong athletes,” said Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Kevin Yeung.
While the cost of the rights was not disclosed, Yeung said that the fee was lower than the rights for Tokyo. If correct,...
The Hong Kong government has licensed the broadcast rights to the Summer Olympic Games in Paris. It intends to relicense the rights to four TV broadcasters in the city – Tvb, ViuTV, Hoy TV and government-owned Rthk. While in most territories, broadcasters negotiate directly with the International Olympic Committee or its agents, the Hong Kong government previously intervened in bidding for rights to the Tokyo Olympics, held in 2021. It also organized large public screenings in shopping malls.
“By procuring the broadcasting rights for these two games in Hong Kong, members of the public will be able to enjoy the Paris Og and PG [Paralympic Games] on television free of charge, and to cheer for Mainland and Hong Kong athletes,” said Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Kevin Yeung.
While the cost of the rights was not disclosed, Yeung said that the fee was lower than the rights for Tokyo. If correct,...
- 4/10/2024
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
Streaming
Prime Video and BBC Studios have launched BBC Player and BBC Kids on Prime Video Channels in India. The subscription-based service will provide Indian viewers a curated line-up of popular British content spanning dramas, comedy, documentaries, factual shows, entertainment, lifestyle programming and children’s shows. Prime members can purchase an annual add-on subscription to BBC Player for Inr 599 ($7.30) that includes full access to BBC Kids. Alternatively, members can also subscribe to BBC Kids only for Inr 199 ($2.42) annually.
Title available at launch on BBC Player include “Six Four,” “The Diplomat,” “Chivalry,” “Citizen Khan,” “Sherlock,” “Unforgotten,” “Happy Valley,” “Top Gear,” “The Great British Bake Off,” “This is Going to Hurt,” “Small Axe” and “Strictly Come Dancing.” BBC Kids will feature “Hey Duggee,” “Go Jetters,” “JoJo & Gran Gran,” “Sarah & Duck” and “Junior Bake Off.”
Stanley Fernandes, VP distribution BBC Studios, South Asia, said: “These brands will offer a curated, multi-genre content line-up,...
Prime Video and BBC Studios have launched BBC Player and BBC Kids on Prime Video Channels in India. The subscription-based service will provide Indian viewers a curated line-up of popular British content spanning dramas, comedy, documentaries, factual shows, entertainment, lifestyle programming and children’s shows. Prime members can purchase an annual add-on subscription to BBC Player for Inr 599 ($7.30) that includes full access to BBC Kids. Alternatively, members can also subscribe to BBC Kids only for Inr 199 ($2.42) annually.
Title available at launch on BBC Player include “Six Four,” “The Diplomat,” “Chivalry,” “Citizen Khan,” “Sherlock,” “Unforgotten,” “Happy Valley,” “Top Gear,” “The Great British Bake Off,” “This is Going to Hurt,” “Small Axe” and “Strictly Come Dancing.” BBC Kids will feature “Hey Duggee,” “Go Jetters,” “JoJo & Gran Gran,” “Sarah & Duck” and “Junior Bake Off.”
Stanley Fernandes, VP distribution BBC Studios, South Asia, said: “These brands will offer a curated, multi-genre content line-up,...
- 7/20/2023
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Bollywood veteran star Neetu Kapoor will be seen sharing screen space with actor Sunny Kaushal and Shraddha Srinath in Lionsgate India Studios’s first feature film.
The coming-of-age story will capture the beautiful and relatable relationship between a mother and her son.
Neetu said: “When I read the script, I fell in love with it. It goes beyond the regular mother-son story and explores a different side that sets a unique tone to the rom-com genre.”
“The moment I read the script, I knew it’s a special film that I just had to be a part of! It is an ode to all the mothers, their wishes, and their sacrifices!” Sunny added.
Using comedy as its main premise, the untitled film, directed by Milind Dhaimade, delves into the integral fabric of families, communication, and memories, as well as their role in forcing us to grow up.
Dhaimade said: “For me,...
The coming-of-age story will capture the beautiful and relatable relationship between a mother and her son.
Neetu said: “When I read the script, I fell in love with it. It goes beyond the regular mother-son story and explores a different side that sets a unique tone to the rom-com genre.”
“The moment I read the script, I knew it’s a special film that I just had to be a part of! It is an ode to all the mothers, their wishes, and their sacrifices!” Sunny added.
Using comedy as its main premise, the untitled film, directed by Milind Dhaimade, delves into the integral fabric of families, communication, and memories, as well as their role in forcing us to grow up.
Dhaimade said: “For me,...
- 9/5/2022
- by Glamsham Bureau
- GlamSham
Lionsgate India Studios is producing its first feature film, an as-yet-untitled coming-of-age story.
Directed by Milind Dhaimade (2016 London Film Festival selection “You Are My Sunday”), the Hindi-language film is a comedy revolving around a mother and son relationship. It stars Neetu Kapoor (“Jug Jugg Jeeyo”), Sunny Kaushal (“The Forgotten Army – Azaadi Ke Liye”) and Shraddha Srinath (“Maara”).
Lionsgate India has previously produced several series for Starz streamer Lionsgate Play, including “Hiccups & Hookups,” “Jugaadistan” and “Feels Like Home.”
Rohit Jain, MD, South Asia and networks – emerging markets Asia, Lionsgate, said: “Lionsgate remains bullish on investments in India spotlighting the region in the global growth strategy. Lionsgate Studios in India is delighted to announce its maiden Hindi film. With Milind at the helm of it, each character has been cast perfectly to depict this beautiful story that we’re sure audiences will love. We are running at a rapid pace...
Directed by Milind Dhaimade (2016 London Film Festival selection “You Are My Sunday”), the Hindi-language film is a comedy revolving around a mother and son relationship. It stars Neetu Kapoor (“Jug Jugg Jeeyo”), Sunny Kaushal (“The Forgotten Army – Azaadi Ke Liye”) and Shraddha Srinath (“Maara”).
Lionsgate India has previously produced several series for Starz streamer Lionsgate Play, including “Hiccups & Hookups,” “Jugaadistan” and “Feels Like Home.”
Rohit Jain, MD, South Asia and networks – emerging markets Asia, Lionsgate, said: “Lionsgate remains bullish on investments in India spotlighting the region in the global growth strategy. Lionsgate Studios in India is delighted to announce its maiden Hindi film. With Milind at the helm of it, each character has been cast perfectly to depict this beautiful story that we’re sure audiences will love. We are running at a rapid pace...
- 9/5/2022
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Entertainment'Ms Marvel' is the first series from Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) that revolves around a Muslim superhero. Tnm StaffScreengrab/ Twitter, YouTubeThe latest addition to American superhero franchise Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is Ms Marvel which is the first MCU show to feature a Muslim protagonist in the lead. The story revolves around Kamala, played by Iman Vellani, a 16-year-old Pakistani-American from Jersey city. The show was released on June 6 on streaming platform Disney Plus hotstar. Much to fans’ amusement, the show has plenty of references to South Asian culture, and Indian cinema in particular. Examples include scenes that had references about Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan and actor Fawad Khan, and Farhan Akhtar being roped in as part of the cast. Tamil audiences who watched the show, took to social media to share that they were thrilled to see music composer Ar Rahman’s song from superstar Rajinikanth’s 2014 Tamil...
- 6/10/2022
- by SaradhaU
- The News Minute
Campaign
The U.K. Film and TV Charity launched a year-long campaign on Wednesday to tackle the mental health challenges facing the industry. The “Let’s Reset” campaign is designed to tackle the stigma still associated with mental health by challenging common preconceptions, improving attitudes and behaviors across the industry, and by demonstrating the benefits of healthier, more supported, and inclusive working environments, including greater creativity, diversity, and retention of talent.
New research from the second Looking Glass Survey due at the end of the month indicates almost four out of five workers in film and TV believe intensity of work is having a negative impact on their mental health.
The campaign calls on those in positions of power to act, to effect change, and commit to better ways of working. It will move from awareness-raising in the initial launch phase to showcasing and amplifying tools and initiatives to improve the support available,...
The U.K. Film and TV Charity launched a year-long campaign on Wednesday to tackle the mental health challenges facing the industry. The “Let’s Reset” campaign is designed to tackle the stigma still associated with mental health by challenging common preconceptions, improving attitudes and behaviors across the industry, and by demonstrating the benefits of healthier, more supported, and inclusive working environments, including greater creativity, diversity, and retention of talent.
New research from the second Looking Glass Survey due at the end of the month indicates almost four out of five workers in film and TV believe intensity of work is having a negative impact on their mental health.
The campaign calls on those in positions of power to act, to effect change, and commit to better ways of working. It will move from awareness-raising in the initial launch phase to showcasing and amplifying tools and initiatives to improve the support available,...
- 10/6/2021
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
New Delhi, Oct 6 (Ians) Team Alpha and Rohit Jain have sealed their places for the upcoming global finals of the World Esports League 2021 scheduled from December 16-19 at the Gwangju Esports Arena in Korea. Owing to the Covid-19 pandemic, the India Qualifiers were held virtually last week. The World Esports League 2021 is […]...
- 10/6/2021
- by Glamsham Bureau
- GlamSham
Starz has launched its international streaming app, Lionsgate Play, in the Philippines.
Cecilia Marino has been tapped as general manager for that market, where she will report to Rohit Jain, managing director of emerging markets in Asia. The rollout of the Lionsgate Play regional service in the Philippines follows the StarzPlay app launching in India, Indonesia and elsewhere in the South Asian market.
“The Philippines is an indispensable market for the South Asian business, and I am confident that the Filipino audience will enjoy Lionsgate Play’s unique and exclusive streaming offering,” Marino said in a statement as a collection of ...
Cecilia Marino has been tapped as general manager for that market, where she will report to Rohit Jain, managing director of emerging markets in Asia. The rollout of the Lionsgate Play regional service in the Philippines follows the StarzPlay app launching in India, Indonesia and elsewhere in the South Asian market.
“The Philippines is an indispensable market for the South Asian business, and I am confident that the Filipino audience will enjoy Lionsgate Play’s unique and exclusive streaming offering,” Marino said in a statement as a collection of ...
Starz has launched its international streaming app, Lionsgate Play, in the Philippines.
Cecilia Marino has been tapped as general manager for that market, where she will report to Rohit Jain, managing director of emerging markets in Asia. The rollout of the Lionsgate Play regional service in the Philippines follows the StarzPlay app launching in India, Indonesia and elsewhere in the South Asian market.
“The Philippines is an indispensable market for the South Asian business, and I am confident that the Filipino audience will enjoy Lionsgate Play’s unique and exclusive streaming offering,” Marino said in a statement as a collection of ...
Cecilia Marino has been tapped as general manager for that market, where she will report to Rohit Jain, managing director of emerging markets in Asia. The rollout of the Lionsgate Play regional service in the Philippines follows the StarzPlay app launching in India, Indonesia and elsewhere in the South Asian market.
“The Philippines is an indispensable market for the South Asian business, and I am confident that the Filipino audience will enjoy Lionsgate Play’s unique and exclusive streaming offering,” Marino said in a statement as a collection of ...
Starz’s India-based streamer Lionsgate Play today announced its second original series, the college romantic drama U-Special.
The working-titled U-Special is set in the cheerful, quirky and vibrant world of a large university campus filled with young people from all over India. Viewers can live with the characters, love with them and share their highs and lows while they build, abandon, rebuild and eventually own their hopes, dreams and ideals. The students also encounter one of the most corrupt, widespread and long-running academic scams ever to hit the north of India.
The ensemble cast includes Sumeet Vyas, Arjun Mathur, Parambrata Chatterjee, Rukshar Dhillon, Taaruk Raina, Gopal Datt and Ahsaas Channa, among others. Akarsh Khurana and Adhaar Khurana direct, with the former also serving as showrunner.
U-Special follows Casual, Lionsgate Play’s first original series, which is a remake of the 2015-18 on Hulu comedy from Lionsgate Television.
“After receiving a...
The working-titled U-Special is set in the cheerful, quirky and vibrant world of a large university campus filled with young people from all over India. Viewers can live with the characters, love with them and share their highs and lows while they build, abandon, rebuild and eventually own their hopes, dreams and ideals. The students also encounter one of the most corrupt, widespread and long-running academic scams ever to hit the north of India.
The ensemble cast includes Sumeet Vyas, Arjun Mathur, Parambrata Chatterjee, Rukshar Dhillon, Taaruk Raina, Gopal Datt and Ahsaas Channa, among others. Akarsh Khurana and Adhaar Khurana direct, with the former also serving as showrunner.
U-Special follows Casual, Lionsgate Play’s first original series, which is a remake of the 2015-18 on Hulu comedy from Lionsgate Television.
“After receiving a...
- 3/17/2021
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
Global streaming platform Starz, which launched its Lionsgate Play direct-to-consumer Ott app in India last year, is partnering with Lionsgate Television (Lgtv) on its first Indian original series, a remake of Lgtv’s critically-acclaimed, Golden Globe®-nominated hit series Casual.
Casual will kick off Lionsgate Play’s first original slate of dramas, comedies, crime and action series for the Indian and South Asian market, building on its success with acclaimed award-winning series such as Normal People (nominated for two Golden Globe), The Goes Wrong Show and the hit series Love Life. The remake of Casual will offer great drama with bold character explorations that have already become a trademark of Lionsgate Play’s content offering for Asian subscribers.
"Lionsgate Play continues to gain momentum in India, proving to be a strong driver of Starz’s international growth,” said Starz President and CEO Jeffrey Hirsch. “Partnering with Lionsgate Television to kick...
Casual will kick off Lionsgate Play’s first original slate of dramas, comedies, crime and action series for the Indian and South Asian market, building on its success with acclaimed award-winning series such as Normal People (nominated for two Golden Globe), The Goes Wrong Show and the hit series Love Life. The remake of Casual will offer great drama with bold character explorations that have already become a trademark of Lionsgate Play’s content offering for Asian subscribers.
"Lionsgate Play continues to gain momentum in India, proving to be a strong driver of Starz’s international growth,” said Starz President and CEO Jeffrey Hirsch. “Partnering with Lionsgate Television to kick...
- 2/24/2021
- by Glamsham Editorial
- GlamSham
Starz is going Casual in South Asia. The global streamer’s Lionsgate Play is partnering with Lionsgate Television on its first Indian original series, a remake of Lgtv’s comedy that ran 2015-18 on Hulu.
The news comes after launched its direct-to-consumer Ott app Lionsgate Play in the country last year. Casual will kick off the service’s first original slate for the Indian and South Asian market.
The original series followed a dysfunctional family with a bachelor brother (Tommy Dewey) and his newly divorced sister (Michaela Watkins). Together, they coach each other through the crazy world of dating while living under one roof again and raising a teenager (Tara Lynne Barr). The Indian Casual will star former Miss Universe Lara Dutta as the sister and Prateik Babbar as her brother and be directed by Bollywood filmmaker Kunal Kohli.
“Lionsgate Play...
The news comes after launched its direct-to-consumer Ott app Lionsgate Play in the country last year. Casual will kick off the service’s first original slate for the Indian and South Asian market.
The original series followed a dysfunctional family with a bachelor brother (Tommy Dewey) and his newly divorced sister (Michaela Watkins). Together, they coach each other through the crazy world of dating while living under one roof again and raising a teenager (Tara Lynne Barr). The Indian Casual will star former Miss Universe Lara Dutta as the sister and Prateik Babbar as her brother and be directed by Bollywood filmmaker Kunal Kohli.
“Lionsgate Play...
- 2/24/2021
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
Martin Scorsese-fronted Documentary
Abacus Media Rights will distribute documentary The Oratorio, hosted by multiple Academy Award-winner Martin Scorsese. The 66-minute TV film about the immigrant experience will tell the story of a long-forgotten event that helped shape the cultural landscape of New York. In 1826, a single performance at St Patrick’s Old Cathedral introduced Italian opera to New York City. Painstaking research has unearthed stories of the personalities involved including Mozart’s librettist, Lorenzo Da Ponte, debt-ridden and selling groceries; Maria Malibran, a young singer considered opera’s first diva and Pierre Toussaint, a freed slave and chief benefactor in building the church. The film is directed and produced by Mary Anne Rothberg and Jonathan Mann, co-founders of production company Provenance Productions (Do Not Duplicate) and director Alex Bayer. The feature also includes contributions from church parishioner and comedian Jim Gaffigan and members of the Teatro Lirico di Cagliari...
Abacus Media Rights will distribute documentary The Oratorio, hosted by multiple Academy Award-winner Martin Scorsese. The 66-minute TV film about the immigrant experience will tell the story of a long-forgotten event that helped shape the cultural landscape of New York. In 1826, a single performance at St Patrick’s Old Cathedral introduced Italian opera to New York City. Painstaking research has unearthed stories of the personalities involved including Mozart’s librettist, Lorenzo Da Ponte, debt-ridden and selling groceries; Maria Malibran, a young singer considered opera’s first diva and Pierre Toussaint, a freed slave and chief benefactor in building the church. The film is directed and produced by Mary Anne Rothberg and Jonathan Mann, co-founders of production company Provenance Productions (Do Not Duplicate) and director Alex Bayer. The feature also includes contributions from church parishioner and comedian Jim Gaffigan and members of the Teatro Lirico di Cagliari...
- 1/21/2021
- by Andreas Wiseman, Jake Kanter and Tom Grater
- Deadline Film + TV
Guntur Siboro, Gene Tamesis join senior executive ranks.
Starz is expanding into Indonesia with the launch of its Lionsgate Play Ott platform.
Guntur Siboro has been brought on as general manager and Gene Tamesis as vice president of business development & partnerships to lead operations on the regional team led by managing director South Asia and networks – emerging markets Asia at Lionsgate, Rohit Jain.
The Starz footprint covers 55 countries. Indonesia is a key plank in the expansion strategy given its fast-growing digital economy, extensive internet infrastructure, and young population.
Siboro was previously country head – Indonesia, at Hooq Digital, a regional video Ott player owned by Singtel,...
Starz is expanding into Indonesia with the launch of its Lionsgate Play Ott platform.
Guntur Siboro has been brought on as general manager and Gene Tamesis as vice president of business development & partnerships to lead operations on the regional team led by managing director South Asia and networks – emerging markets Asia at Lionsgate, Rohit Jain.
The Starz footprint covers 55 countries. Indonesia is a key plank in the expansion strategy given its fast-growing digital economy, extensive internet infrastructure, and young population.
Siboro was previously country head – Indonesia, at Hooq Digital, a regional video Ott player owned by Singtel,...
- 1/21/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Starz is expanding its reach into the growing market of Indonesia with the launch of premium streaming service Lionsgate Play.
The company has brought on a pair of executives to manage its new operations in the populous Southeast Asian country. Guntur Siboro has been hired as general manager and Gene Tamesis as vp of business development and partnerships. The pair will report to Rohit Jain, Lionsgate’s md of emerging markets and South Asia. Both of the new hires were most recently employed by Hooq, the regional Ott player backed by Warner Bros and Sony that was shut down last ...
The company has brought on a pair of executives to manage its new operations in the populous Southeast Asian country. Guntur Siboro has been hired as general manager and Gene Tamesis as vp of business development and partnerships. The pair will report to Rohit Jain, Lionsgate’s md of emerging markets and South Asia. Both of the new hires were most recently employed by Hooq, the regional Ott player backed by Warner Bros and Sony that was shut down last ...
- 1/21/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Starz is expanding its reach into the growing market of Indonesia with the launch of premium streaming service Lionsgate Play.
The company has brought on a pair of executives to manage its new operations in the populous Southeast Asian country. Guntur Siboro has been hired as general manager and Gene Tamesis as vp of business development and partnerships. The pair will report to Rohit Jain, Lionsgate’s md of emerging markets and South Asia. Both of the new hires were most recently employed by Hooq, the regional Ott player backed by Warner Bros and Sony that was shut down last ...
The company has brought on a pair of executives to manage its new operations in the populous Southeast Asian country. Guntur Siboro has been hired as general manager and Gene Tamesis as vp of business development and partnerships. The pair will report to Rohit Jain, Lionsgate’s md of emerging markets and South Asia. Both of the new hires were most recently employed by Hooq, the regional Ott player backed by Warner Bros and Sony that was shut down last ...
- 1/21/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Board chairman Kevin Ulrich said to be under pressure as investors look to sell stakes.
MGM has brought on two investment banks as it explores a possible sale, according to a report in The Wall Street Journal.
The studio has been linked with a sale for years and observers said talks could speed up in 2021, after the release of postponed James Bond saga No Time To Die.
Several years ago MGM held talks with Apple about a range of options, the WSJ said it has hired Morgan Stanley and LionTree.
Despite being a relative minnow in Hollywood with a reported...
MGM has brought on two investment banks as it explores a possible sale, according to a report in The Wall Street Journal.
The studio has been linked with a sale for years and observers said talks could speed up in 2021, after the release of postponed James Bond saga No Time To Die.
Several years ago MGM held talks with Apple about a range of options, the WSJ said it has hired Morgan Stanley and LionTree.
Despite being a relative minnow in Hollywood with a reported...
- 12/22/2020
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Lionsgate’s Indian chief Rohit Jain has been promoted to oversee all of South Asia for the film and TV company’s platform business.
Jain, who was previously head of its Mumbai office, has been promoted to Managing Director, South Asia and Network Platforms – Emerging Markets Asia.
He is now responsible for all of Lionsgate’s South Asian businesses and expanding the Starz premium subscription platform throughout the emerging markets of Asia. He has been responsible for growing its Lionsgate Play streaming service across multiple emerging Asian markets including India and establishing a licensing and distribution business in the region.
“Rohit is an entrepreneurial and innovative executive who has gotten our Indian operations off to a great start with the successful launch of Lionsgate Play,” said Lionsgate CEO Jon Feltheimer. “He has created a forward-looking blueprint for growth in one of the world’s most important territories. As he expands...
Jain, who was previously head of its Mumbai office, has been promoted to Managing Director, South Asia and Network Platforms – Emerging Markets Asia.
He is now responsible for all of Lionsgate’s South Asian businesses and expanding the Starz premium subscription platform throughout the emerging markets of Asia. He has been responsible for growing its Lionsgate Play streaming service across multiple emerging Asian markets including India and establishing a licensing and distribution business in the region.
“Rohit is an entrepreneurial and innovative executive who has gotten our Indian operations off to a great start with the successful launch of Lionsgate Play,” said Lionsgate CEO Jon Feltheimer. “He has created a forward-looking blueprint for growth in one of the world’s most important territories. As he expands...
- 12/22/2020
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Executive tasked with growing studio’s South Asian businesses, expanding Starz platform to emerging markets.
Lionsgate has promoted Rohit Jain to managing director, South Asia and network platforms – emerging markets Asia.
In his enhanced role, Jain, who has led the studio’s India office since it opened in 2018, assumes responsibility for shepherding growth across all Lionsgate’s South Asian businesses, and expanding the Starz platform throughout emerging Asian markets.
The executive oversaw the launch of the Lionsgate Play streaming service across a number of emerging Asian markets including India with an initial offering that included the Hunger Games and Twilight Saga franchises,...
Lionsgate has promoted Rohit Jain to managing director, South Asia and network platforms – emerging markets Asia.
In his enhanced role, Jain, who has led the studio’s India office since it opened in 2018, assumes responsibility for shepherding growth across all Lionsgate’s South Asian businesses, and expanding the Starz platform throughout emerging Asian markets.
The executive oversaw the launch of the Lionsgate Play streaming service across a number of emerging Asian markets including India with an initial offering that included the Hunger Games and Twilight Saga franchises,...
- 12/22/2020
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Lionsgate has renewed the contract for its India office managing director Rohit Jain, and promoted him to grow the studio’s South Asian businesses and drive the Starz premium subscription platform into emerging Asian markets.
Terms of the new multiyear deal were not disclosed. But in his expanded role, Jain becomes managing director, South Asia and network platforms – emerging markets Asia.
He joined Lionsgate in 2018 to set up an office for the studio in Mumbai. He was earlier deputy CEO of Indian direct-to-home company Videocon d2h for seven years, where he oversaw the company’s listing on the New ...
Terms of the new multiyear deal were not disclosed. But in his expanded role, Jain becomes managing director, South Asia and network platforms – emerging markets Asia.
He joined Lionsgate in 2018 to set up an office for the studio in Mumbai. He was earlier deputy CEO of Indian direct-to-home company Videocon d2h for seven years, where he oversaw the company’s listing on the New ...
- 12/22/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Lionsgate has renewed the contract for its India office managing director Rohit Jain, and promoted him to grow the studio’s South Asian businesses and drive the Starz premium subscription platform into emerging Asian markets.
Terms of the new multiyear deal were not disclosed. But in his expanded role, Jain becomes managing director, South Asia and network platforms – emerging markets Asia.
He joined Lionsgate in 2018 to set up an office for the studio in Mumbai. He was earlier deputy CEO of Indian direct-to-home company Videocon d2h for seven years, where he oversaw the company’s listing on the New ...
Terms of the new multiyear deal were not disclosed. But in his expanded role, Jain becomes managing director, South Asia and network platforms – emerging markets Asia.
He joined Lionsgate in 2018 to set up an office for the studio in Mumbai. He was earlier deputy CEO of Indian direct-to-home company Videocon d2h for seven years, where he oversaw the company’s listing on the New ...
- 12/22/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Global streamer Starz Wednesday announced the launch of direct-to-consumer Ott app Lionsgate Play in India.
Starz CEO Jeffrey Hirsch and Rohit Jain, managing director, Lionsgate South Asia, unveiled the move at a virtual press conference. The app offers premium Hollywood content in multiple Indian languages for monthly or annual subscriptions costing, respectively, Inr (Indian rupees) 99, about $1.34, and Inr 99, about $9.50. The service will be available through Google Play, the Apple app store and Amazon firestick and other platforms.
Starz first launched internationally in 2018 with the Starzplay international premium streaming platform. This month, it will expand its global footprint into 55 countries in Europe and Latin America as well as in Canada, Japan and India. It said the launch of Lionsgate Play is way to capitalize on strong growth in the Indian Ott ecosystem.
Content will feature original films and television series including, at launch, Anna Kendrick-starrer Love Life; Syrian civil war...
Starz CEO Jeffrey Hirsch and Rohit Jain, managing director, Lionsgate South Asia, unveiled the move at a virtual press conference. The app offers premium Hollywood content in multiple Indian languages for monthly or annual subscriptions costing, respectively, Inr (Indian rupees) 99, about $1.34, and Inr 99, about $9.50. The service will be available through Google Play, the Apple app store and Amazon firestick and other platforms.
Starz first launched internationally in 2018 with the Starzplay international premium streaming platform. This month, it will expand its global footprint into 55 countries in Europe and Latin America as well as in Canada, Japan and India. It said the launch of Lionsgate Play is way to capitalize on strong growth in the Indian Ott ecosystem.
Content will feature original films and television series including, at launch, Anna Kendrick-starrer Love Life; Syrian civil war...
- 12/2/2020
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
Global streamer Starz has launched independent direct-to-consumer Ott app Lionsgate Play in India, which will make Hollywood content available locally in multiple Indian languages.
The service enters a booming streaming market where the likes of Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon and Netflix have been making waves in 2020, particularly as the country’s cinemas remain closed, with the streamers buying up premium film content to debut directly online.
Lionsgate Play will cost Inr 699 ($9.50) for a year and Inr 99 ($1.34) per month, a rate that largely undercuts its competitors. The app will be available across Google Play store, Apple app store and Amazon firestick.
Content available at launch will include Anna Kendrick-starrer Love Life, Syrian civil war series No Man’s Land, and comedy series The Goes Wrong Show. It will also premiere movies such as Hustlers, Angel Has Fallen, Hellboy, and The Gentlemen.
The platform was launched at a virtual press conference by Jeffrey A.
The service enters a booming streaming market where the likes of Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon and Netflix have been making waves in 2020, particularly as the country’s cinemas remain closed, with the streamers buying up premium film content to debut directly online.
Lionsgate Play will cost Inr 699 ($9.50) for a year and Inr 99 ($1.34) per month, a rate that largely undercuts its competitors. The app will be available across Google Play store, Apple app store and Amazon firestick.
Content available at launch will include Anna Kendrick-starrer Love Life, Syrian civil war series No Man’s Land, and comedy series The Goes Wrong Show. It will also premiere movies such as Hustlers, Angel Has Fallen, Hellboy, and The Gentlemen.
The platform was launched at a virtual press conference by Jeffrey A.
- 12/2/2020
- by Tom Grater
- Deadline Film + TV
Bharti Airtel has struck a deal with Lionsgate and Starzplay to launch Lionsgate Play in India. The strategic alliance will give customers of the Indian telco access to Lionsgate’s portfolio of feature film content that available on the Airtel Xstream app and web platforms.
The companies said the content will be available in multiple Indian languages and draw from Lionsgate’s horror, comedy, drama, action, thriller, documentary and other genres. Films like La La Land, the Hunger Games and Twilight franchises and Wonder will be among the first titles on offer, along with a range of pics from American Assassin and Robin Hood to Saban’s Power Rangers and Reservoir Dogs.
The content will join an Airtel Xstream app has a catalog of more than 10,000 movies and shows and 400 TV channels.
“The partnership with Airtel is a great opportunity to expand the Lionsgate Play premium offering with a best-in-class partner,...
The companies said the content will be available in multiple Indian languages and draw from Lionsgate’s horror, comedy, drama, action, thriller, documentary and other genres. Films like La La Land, the Hunger Games and Twilight franchises and Wonder will be among the first titles on offer, along with a range of pics from American Assassin and Robin Hood to Saban’s Power Rangers and Reservoir Dogs.
The content will join an Airtel Xstream app has a catalog of more than 10,000 movies and shows and 400 TV channels.
“The partnership with Airtel is a great opportunity to expand the Lionsgate Play premium offering with a best-in-class partner,...
- 12/18/2019
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
Initial offering includes Hunger Games, Twilight Saga franchises, La La Land.
Indian telecoms company Bharti Airtel, Lionsgate and Starz’s subscription platform Starzplay have launched Lionsgate Play in India.
Airtel customers will access the roster of content on the Airtel Xstream app containing more than 10,000 films and shows and 400 TV channels, and via web platforms.
Content will be available in multiple Indian languages spread across all genres. Lionsgate Play’s initial offering includes the Hunger Games and Twilight Saga franchises, La La Land, Wonder, American Assassin, Robin Hood, The Spy Who Dumped Me, A Simple Favor, Now You See Me 2,...
Indian telecoms company Bharti Airtel, Lionsgate and Starz’s subscription platform Starzplay have launched Lionsgate Play in India.
Airtel customers will access the roster of content on the Airtel Xstream app containing more than 10,000 films and shows and 400 TV channels, and via web platforms.
Content will be available in multiple Indian languages spread across all genres. Lionsgate Play’s initial offering includes the Hunger Games and Twilight Saga franchises, La La Land, Wonder, American Assassin, Robin Hood, The Spy Who Dumped Me, A Simple Favor, Now You See Me 2,...
- 12/18/2019
- by 36¦Jeremy Kay¦54¦
- ScreenDaily
A keynote speaker at Hong Kong’s FilMart this week, Jim Packer, Lionsgate’s president of worldwide TV and digital distribution, shares plans to support Starz’ international expansion. And he recounts his experience of watching Netflix change up through the gears.
Back in 2012, when Lionsgate was still casting “Orange is the New Black,” Jim Packer, Lionsgate’s president worldwide TV and digital distribution, described the show’s buyer Netflix as “a great new digital partner.” Seven years later, Netflix is the platform everyone wants to work for and everyone else wants to beat.
“Netflix is no longer new, but they remain a trusted partner. They have such a huge appetite. And they are very easy to do business with,” said Packer. “But they have disrupted a lot of business models.”
“I did licensing deals with them when I was at MGM. They initially said we just want to buy your back catalog.
Back in 2012, when Lionsgate was still casting “Orange is the New Black,” Jim Packer, Lionsgate’s president worldwide TV and digital distribution, described the show’s buyer Netflix as “a great new digital partner.” Seven years later, Netflix is the platform everyone wants to work for and everyone else wants to beat.
“Netflix is no longer new, but they remain a trusted partner. They have such a huge appetite. And they are very easy to do business with,” said Packer. “But they have disrupted a lot of business models.”
“I did licensing deals with them when I was at MGM. They initially said we just want to buy your back catalog.
- 3/19/2019
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
Sony service will boost English-language content with Starz series and Lionsgate films.
Series and library movies from Lionsgate and its Starz premium cable network are to become available in India through the SonyLIV VOD service operated by Sony Pictures Networks.
Under a deal between SonyLIV and Lionsgate India, the Lionsgate Play embedded destination will become part of the service next week, offering users more than 500 hours of original series such as Power, Sweetbitter, Vida and the upcoming The Spanish Princess. Also available will be Lionsgate library films including Crash, Are We There Yet? and Chasing Life.
The launch continues the...
Series and library movies from Lionsgate and its Starz premium cable network are to become available in India through the SonyLIV VOD service operated by Sony Pictures Networks.
Under a deal between SonyLIV and Lionsgate India, the Lionsgate Play embedded destination will become part of the service next week, offering users more than 500 hours of original series such as Power, Sweetbitter, Vida and the upcoming The Spanish Princess. Also available will be Lionsgate library films including Crash, Are We There Yet? and Chasing Life.
The launch continues the...
- 11/1/2018
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
Lionsgate is to launch over 500 hours of premium original series in India via Sony’s Ott service SonyLIV.
The studio’s Indian division is partnering with Sony’s streaming platform to launch series from Starz including Power, Vida, Sweetbitter, The White Queen, The White Princess and The Spanish Princess as well as Lionsgate titles such as Crash, Manhattan, Wildfire, Are We There Yet? and Chasing Life.
To kick off next week’s Diwali Festival, it will launch Lionsgate Play on the SonyLIV platform, which is one of the largest local broadcast-owned Ott platforms and airs series such as Indian Idol and Kaun Banega Crorepati, the local version of Who Wants to Be A Millionaire? It will be bundled within SonyLIV’s current slate of programming.
It is the latest example of Lionsgate and Starz rolling out services internationally; the latter operates Starzplay channels in the UK, Germany, Canada, Italy, France...
The studio’s Indian division is partnering with Sony’s streaming platform to launch series from Starz including Power, Vida, Sweetbitter, The White Queen, The White Princess and The Spanish Princess as well as Lionsgate titles such as Crash, Manhattan, Wildfire, Are We There Yet? and Chasing Life.
To kick off next week’s Diwali Festival, it will launch Lionsgate Play on the SonyLIV platform, which is one of the largest local broadcast-owned Ott platforms and airs series such as Indian Idol and Kaun Banega Crorepati, the local version of Who Wants to Be A Millionaire? It will be bundled within SonyLIV’s current slate of programming.
It is the latest example of Lionsgate and Starz rolling out services internationally; the latter operates Starzplay channels in the UK, Germany, Canada, Italy, France...
- 11/1/2018
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Lionsgate has added to its presence in India by signing a content output deal with Sony Liv that includes its Lionsgate Play offering launching as a branded programming block on the SonyLIV streaming platform.
As the Hollywood studio continues to go over-the-top in India, Lionsgate Play will launch with over 500 hours of Starz and Lionsgate premium series. The initial lineup includes such Starz series as Power, Vida and The White Queen, along with Lionsgate titles including Crash, Manhattan, Wildfire, Are We There Yet? and Chasing Life.
The move follows Lionsgate setting up an office in Mumbai, with Rohit Jain as the ...
As the Hollywood studio continues to go over-the-top in India, Lionsgate Play will launch with over 500 hours of Starz and Lionsgate premium series. The initial lineup includes such Starz series as Power, Vida and The White Queen, along with Lionsgate titles including Crash, Manhattan, Wildfire, Are We There Yet? and Chasing Life.
The move follows Lionsgate setting up an office in Mumbai, with Rohit Jain as the ...
- 11/1/2018
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
New hire reports to MD Rohit Jain.
Lionsgate India has hired industry veteran Amit Dhanuka to serve as executive vice president in the recently launched Mumbai office.
Dhanuka, whose career includes posts at 21st Century Fox subsidiary Star India, and Sony Pictures Television International, will work closely with Lionsgate India managing director Rohit Jain and creative head Maitreyee Dasgupta. He reports to Jain.
“Amit is a very experienced content production and distribution executive and a skilled business strategist,” Jain said. “His wealth of knowledge and acumen will further strengthen our Lionsgate India team and enable us to continue to expand...
Lionsgate India has hired industry veteran Amit Dhanuka to serve as executive vice president in the recently launched Mumbai office.
Dhanuka, whose career includes posts at 21st Century Fox subsidiary Star India, and Sony Pictures Television International, will work closely with Lionsgate India managing director Rohit Jain and creative head Maitreyee Dasgupta. He reports to Jain.
“Amit is a very experienced content production and distribution executive and a skilled business strategist,” Jain said. “His wealth of knowledge and acumen will further strengthen our Lionsgate India team and enable us to continue to expand...
- 5/31/2018
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Lionsgate has expanded its India team with the appointment of Amit Dhanuka as an executive vp, who joins the company’s Mumbai-based office to develop its strategy for the Lionsgate and Starz brands and build its local operations. Dhanuka will report to Lionsgate India managing director Rohit Jain and work closely with the company’s creative head Maitreyee Dasgupta.
Dhanuka was previously with Fox’s Star India network, where he led its direct-to-home affiliate sales division. He also has worked with Indian film production companies E-City Films and Zee Motion Pictures in addition to Sony Pictures Television International in Los ...
Dhanuka was previously with Fox’s Star India network, where he led its direct-to-home affiliate sales division. He also has worked with Indian film production companies E-City Films and Zee Motion Pictures in addition to Sony Pictures Television International in Los ...
- 5/31/2018
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Lionsgate has expanded its India team with the appointment of Amit Dhanuka as an executive vp, who joins the company’s Mumbai-based office to develop its strategy for the Lionsgate and Starz brands and build its local operations. Dhanuka will report to Lionsgate India managing director Rohit Jain and work closely with the company’s creative head Maitreyee Dasgupta.
Dhanuka was previously with Fox’s Star India network, where he led its direct-to-home affiliate sales division. He also has worked with Indian film production companies E-City Films and Zee Motion Pictures in addition to Sony Pictures Television International in Los ...
Dhanuka was previously with Fox’s Star India network, where he led its direct-to-home affiliate sales division. He also has worked with Indian film production companies E-City Films and Zee Motion Pictures in addition to Sony Pictures Television International in Los ...
- 5/31/2018
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Lionsgate India has named Maitreyee Dasgupta as its creative head who will report to the company’s India managing director Rohit Jain.
The studio recently opened its Mumbai office where Dasgupta will be based. She will oversee local productions and co-productions across film, television and digital platforms under the Lionsgate and Starz brands, and also work with local partners to bring as-yet-unnamed global formats to India for local-language remakes.
Dasgupta had earlier worked as senior supervising producer for Viacom India’s film unit, Viacom18 Motion Pictures where she worked on titles such as Gangs of Wasseypur...
The studio recently opened its Mumbai office where Dasgupta will be based. She will oversee local productions and co-productions across film, television and digital platforms under the Lionsgate and Starz brands, and also work with local partners to bring as-yet-unnamed global formats to India for local-language remakes.
Dasgupta had earlier worked as senior supervising producer for Viacom India’s film unit, Viacom18 Motion Pictures where she worked on titles such as Gangs of Wasseypur...
- 2/13/2018
- by Nyay Bhushan
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Dasgupta worked at Viacom18 Motion Pictures on hits like Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, Gangs Of Wasseypur.
Lionsgate has appointed production executive Maitreyee Dasgupta as creative head of its new Mumbai-based outpost, Lionsgate India.
Reporting to Lionsgate India managing director Rohit Jain, Dasgupta will oversee local productions and co-productions across film, television and digital platforms under both the Lionsgate and Starz brands.
Working with local partners, her role will entail bringing global formats to India for local-language remakes and also supervising the co-production of original content. She will also work closely with Jain to build Lionsgate India’s strategy for television and digital productions in the territory.
Dasgupta worked for four years as senior supervising producer for Viacom18 Motion Pictures, where she worked on critically acclaimed hits such as Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, Madras Café, and Gangs Of Wasseypur.
She also had stints at Disney subsidiaries Utv Television and Utv Spotboy Motion Pictures, where she supervised...
Lionsgate has appointed production executive Maitreyee Dasgupta as creative head of its new Mumbai-based outpost, Lionsgate India.
Reporting to Lionsgate India managing director Rohit Jain, Dasgupta will oversee local productions and co-productions across film, television and digital platforms under both the Lionsgate and Starz brands.
Working with local partners, her role will entail bringing global formats to India for local-language remakes and also supervising the co-production of original content. She will also work closely with Jain to build Lionsgate India’s strategy for television and digital productions in the territory.
Dasgupta worked for four years as senior supervising producer for Viacom18 Motion Pictures, where she worked on critically acclaimed hits such as Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, Madras Café, and Gangs Of Wasseypur.
She also had stints at Disney subsidiaries Utv Television and Utv Spotboy Motion Pictures, where she supervised...
- 2/13/2018
- by Liz Shackleton
- ScreenDaily
Lionsgate has set up an office in Mumbai while announcing the appointment of Rohit Jain as MD for India.
The move builds on the company’s growing plans in the country, which included a 2015 Bollywood remake of the Tom Hardy-starrer Warrior, titled Brothers, with top actor Akshay Kumar in the lead role.
“If you can imagine Warrior with an erotic, booze-soaked dance number and double the love scenes, then you'll be able to wrap your head around the Indian version of the film,” said THR in its review, which also praised Brothers for adding local tweaks to the original.
...
The move builds on the company’s growing plans in the country, which included a 2015 Bollywood remake of the Tom Hardy-starrer Warrior, titled Brothers, with top actor Akshay Kumar in the lead role.
“If you can imagine Warrior with an erotic, booze-soaked dance number and double the love scenes, then you'll be able to wrap your head around the Indian version of the film,” said THR in its review, which also praised Brothers for adding local tweaks to the original.
...
- 10/24/2017
- by Nyay Bhushan
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
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