Viacom18 readies films push
OMG 2, Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahaani and Drishyam 2, Viacom18 Studios, the film production and distribution arm of Viacom18 Media Pvt. Ltd, aims to achieve ₹1,000 crore in annual revenue from various projects, spanning theatrical, satellite, and digital platforms, Ajit Andhare, chief operating officer, Viacom18 Studios said. The studio will focus on both high-budget and mid-scale productions for theatrical releases.
while venturing into original web content through its separate arm, Tipping Point. Andhare said the studio will maintain its independence, even as sister concern, Jio Studios, launches its own projects. “The approach central to the way the studio has worked for 13 years is to put the script and story first, find the unique cinematic experience or differentiation you’re offering, and then put that package out in the market.
However, the launch of OTTs post-covid, there is some pressure on the mid-segment as theatrical experience became far more important," he said. However, creating a mass-market show is not the only way to go about it, and the box office success of recent launches such as OMG 2, Gadar 2 and Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahaani is proof of it, he said. The company is prepping an action film, Fighter, starring Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone, that is slated for January release.
A few mid-scale films are also in the works, such as Dhak Dhak, featuring Ratna Pathak Shah, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Dia Mirza, and others, and Paresh Rawal-starrer Shastry Virudh Shastry. The studio is also working on sequels of older hits like Drishyam, Pyaar Ka Punchnama and Special 26. While Viacom18’s video streaming platform JioCinema plans to expand, the studio may partner with rival networks for the sale of satellite
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