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<ul><li>One in three people are planning to watch a movie in the cinema hall or <keyword id="6403273" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Multiplex" source="Orion">multiplex</keyword> in the next 60 days. </li><li>26% of respondents had been to a cinema hall or multiplex in the last 60 days i.e. the months of November and December. </li><li>17% of the respondents indicated that they no longer watch movies in multiplexes or <keyword id="6584707" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="cinema-halls" source="Orion">cinema halls</keyword>. </li></ul>With Shah Rukh Khan starrer Pathaan <a href="https://twitter.com/taran_adarsh/status/1617554191739940864">recording </a>advance bookings of over 3 lakh tickets, the cinema theaters look ready to declare housefull shows again. And, it might just be the start of better times. As per a survey conducted by LocalCircles, 34% of the respondents (one in three people) are planning to watch a movie in the cinema hall or multiplex in the next 60 days. LocalCircles, which has regularly conducted the ‘Citizen pulse on Cinema Halls’ survey since October 2020 to understand expected footfalls during the pandemic and thereafter, reported that the percentage of citizens likely to visit a cinema hall/ multiplex has increased by 150% in the last year. There has also been an increase from December 2021 in the number of people planning to visit the cinemas at least once, and those planning to visit the cinemas multiple times. “The data comparison shows that as against 2% of respondents who indicated plans to go multiple times in December 2021, the percentage has risen to 6%. In the next category of those planning to visit once, the difference is much bigger at 28% in Jan 2023 as against 12% in December 2021,” added LocalCircles. However, the survey results also revealed that only 26% of respondents had been to a cinema hall or multiplex in the last 60 days i.e. the months of November and December. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Can 2023 take forward the 2022 momentum?" comment="subhead2" text="Can 2023 take forward the 2022 momentum?">Can 2023 take forward the 2022 momentum?</cmsannotation> While a rise in cinema attendance bodes well for the entertainment industry, OTT platforms have become the preferred medium for many. In the LocalCircles survey, 17% indicated that they no longer watch movies in multiplexes or cinema halls. Despite stiff competition from OTT, cinema halls started gaining momentum in 2022, <a href="https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/epaper/delhicapital/2023/jan/24/et-front/at-10kcr-indian-box-office-scripts-a-blockbuster-in-2022/articleshow/97261901.cms">recording </a>a gross box-office collection of ₹10,637 crore, according to a GroupM-Ormax Media report. This was next only to ₹10,948 crore collection recorded in the pre-pandemic 2019. “With the release of Pathaan this week, 2023 is off to a great start too, auguring well for a medium that was impacted the most by the pandemic, but has managed to bounce back in no time at all,” said Shailesh Kapoor, founder &amp; CEO, Ormax Media, in a press release. Considering the releases <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/entertainment/news/most-anticipated-indian-movies-releasing-in-2023/slidelist/96560782.cms">slated for 2023</a>, like Mani Ratnam’s PS-2, Alia Bhatt’s Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani, and Shah Rukh Khan’s Dunkee and Jawan, 2023 appears set to revive not just cinema but perhaps, even Bollywood. SEE ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/news/from-privacy-settings-to-educational-tools-here-are-some-new-facebook-features-you-should-know/articleshow/97280127.cms">From privacy settings to educational tools, here are some new Facebook features you should know</a> <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/logitech-mx-master-3s-review-boost-your-productivity-with-this-premium-mouse/articleshow/97280665.cms">Logitech MX Master 3S review – boost your productivity with this premium mouse</a>

Percentage of citizens likely to visit cinemas increased by 150%: LocalCircles survey

Kathmandu, Cinema halls across Kathmandu on Friday stopped the screening of '<keyword id="9776044" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="adipurush" source="Orion">Adipurush</keyword>', a day after Mayor Balen Shah warned that no Indian movie will be allowed in the Nepal capital if the film based on the Hindu epic <keyword id="6363500" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="ramayana" source="Orion">Ramayana</keyword> does not correct the "mistake" about the birthplace of Sita. The <keyword id="17720608" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="nepal-film-union" source="Orion">Nepal Film Union</keyword> has urged all the cinema halls in Kathmandu to stop showing 'Adipurush' and urged theatres outside the capital to release it only after assessing the security situation. In a tweet on Thursday, the Mayor said that in 'Adipurush', it is mentioned that "Sita is the daughter of India". He added that until this mistake will not be corrected in India and Nepal, no Indian movie will be allowed to be shown within the Kathmandu metropolitan city limit. The film is written and directed by <keyword id="2236748" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="om-raut" source="Orion">Om Raut</keyword> and produced by T-Series and Retrophiles. Shot simultaneously in Hindi and Telugu languages, the film has courted controversy in India as well. In a statement, Nepal's QFX Cinemas said: "Keeping the security of our viewers, QFX is not going to show 'Adipurush'... We are waiting for the government's decision. As soon as this issue is resolved, we will issue another notice and apologise for the inconvenience to our viewers." Nepal's Censor Board also decided to hold back permission to the upcoming Indian epic mythological film, based on the Hindu epic "Ramayana", for the same reason. Sita was born in Nepal's Janakpur and Lord Rama came and married her, as per the Ramayana. Besides Mayor Balen Shah, some sister organisations of various political parties have also protested against the film and warned that they will not allow the screening until the filmmakers correct the mistakes regarding the birthplace of Sita. This is not the first time that Mayor Shah ratcheted up the nationalist planks. Mayor Shah on June 8 placed the map of Greater Nepal in his chamber to counter the Indian "Akhand Bharat" map placed in the new Parliament building. The main opposition, CPN-UML has demanded to send a diplomatic note to India to protest the "Akhand" map. --IANS ag/ksk/

Kathmandu cinema halls stop screening of Adipurush over Sita birthplace issue

Leading multiplex chain INOX Leisure Ltd. announced on Wednesday that it is all set to live screen matches from <keyword id="5929" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="fifa-world-cup" source="Orion">FIFA World Cup</keyword> <keyword id="6355203" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="qatar" source="Orion">Qatar</keyword> 2022 across its 22 multiplexes in 15 cities in <keyword id="3658" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="india" source="Orion">India</keyword>. The move means that football fanatics can watch the matches at INOX multiplexes in Mumbai, Delhi, Gurgaon, Kolkata, Pune, <keyword id="826" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="goa" source="Orion">Goa</keyword>, Bhubaneswar, Jaipur, Kolkata, Siliguri, Surat, Indore, Vadodara, Dhanbad, and Thrissur, adding to the FIFA Football <keyword id="22177" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="world-cup" source="Orion">World Cup</keyword> frenzy in India. The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 began on November 20, with the Round of 16 kicking off on December 2, with the final scheduled for December 18. 32 of the best international teams in the world will battle it out to win the coveted title. The tournament unarguably produced one of the biggest shocking results in the history of the competition when Saudi Arabia defeated a Lionel Messi-led Argentina 2-1 in a Group C match at the Lusail Iconic Stadium on Tuesday. "There are certain things that bring people together in our country, and sports is one of them. We are thrilled to bring the most-awaited sporting event, the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, to the big cinema screens at INOX." "With this initiative, we aim to provide our patrons with an opportunity to create unforgettable experiences and memories while feeling the pulsating energy as if one were in the stadium itself. We are proud to take our content innovation journey forward with sports, through this historic screening. We look forward to welcoming our guests and letting them soak in an immersive football-viewing fun at INOX," said Alok Tandon, Chief Executive Officer of INOX Leisure Limited. INOX had earlier signed an agreement with the International Cricket Council (ICC) to live screen all matches played by India in the eighth edition of the Men's T20 World Cup in Australia in October-November, where the side reached the semi-finals, before losing to England by ten wickets. They also live screened India's matches in Asia Cup 2022 in the UAE in September. The cinema chain is also the Official Sponsor of the Indian Olympic Association. SEE ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/sports/news/no-alcohol-intake-strict-dress-code-us-uk-issue-advisory-for-fifa-world-cup-in-qatar/slidelist/95715119.cms">No alcohol intake, strict dress code: US, UK issue advisory for FIFA World Cup in Qatar</a> <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/news/bjyus-amul-viacom18-jio-cinema-sbi-more-indian-brands-powering-the-fifa-world-cup-2022/slidelist/95712435.cms">Amul, BJYUs, Jio Cinema &amp; more: Indian brands powering the FIFA World Cup 2022</a>

INOX to screen matches of FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 live in its cinema halls in India

<ul><li>The last 19 months have been difficult for the movie and events industry. However, with <keyword id="6584707" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="cinema-halls" source="Orion">cinema halls</keyword> opening up across the country and live events also slowly starting, things are finally looking up.</li><li><keyword id="277892" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="ashish-saksena" source="Orion">Ashish Saksena</keyword>, COO - Cinemas and <keyword id="5147613" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="anil-makhija" source="Orion">Anil Makhija</keyword>, COO – Live <keyword id="4578" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="entertainment" source="Orion">Entertainment</keyword> &amp; Venues, <keyword id="600792" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="bookmyshow" source="Orion">BookMyShow</keyword> talk to us about the kind of revival they have been witnessing on the platform and tell us why they are hopeful for a healthy revival in 2022.</li></ul>The year has almost come to an end and what a year of ups and downs it has been. However, things are slowly moving towards normalcy and we couldn’t be more thankful. One thing that is making things feel normal or somewhat close to normal again is the opening up of cinema halls. There has been a lot of pent up demand with people just tired of being stuck at their homes so this has been a welcome change. More and more people want to get back to watching movies on the big screen and the numbers are showing. Recent big-ticket releases like Akshay Kumar-starrer <keyword id="7188379" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sooryavanshi" source="Orion">Sooryavanshi</keyword>, Rajnikanth’s Annaatthe, Marvel’s Eternals, Dulquer Salmaan’s <keyword id="268517" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="kurup" source="Orion">Kurup</keyword> and most recently the latest Spiderman movie, <keyword id="10823072" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="spider-man-no-way-home" source="Orion">Spider-Man No Way Home</keyword> have led to a surge of people wanting to book tickets on online ticketing platforms. So we wanted to know what kind of revival online booking platforms like BookMyShow (BMS) are witnessing. And we got some answers from Ashish Saksena, COO - Cinemas, BMS and Anil Makhija, COO – Live Entertainment &amp; Venues, BMS and what both painted a picture of hope for cinemas, events as well as online platforms in 2022. Bringing people back to cinemas and events With cinemas across all states in India finally opening, there is a lot of optimism about this quarter kick-starting the recovery cycle for cinemas, audiences and the industry as a whole. BookMyShow witnessed a hockey stick growth in user engagement, traffic and transactions nearing pre-covid levels on the platform within just the first ten days of cinemas opening up. “Within the first 10 days of the movies releasing pan-India, daily consumer traffic surged to 76% of pre-Covid levels on an average while user engagement has been steadily rising the charts, already surpassing 66% of pre-covid levels on BookMyShow,” shared Saksena. Consumers from Chennai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata and Ahmedabad have been quickest to return back to the movies contributing, 48% of the traffic recovery. To encourage people to come back to the big screen, BMS has been running a six-month-long campaign #CinemaIsBack that it has conceptualised and executed in-house team. “The campaign aims at targeting entertainment-lovers across age groups, geographic restrictions notwithstanding and social setups through various social media platforms, with the spotlight on the all-new out-of-home movie entertainment experience - different but not a shred less than earlier! It is a visual, socially engaging and meme-based series executed on digital and social media and will be amplified across BMS’s customer base and potential new audiences both on the platform’s mobile app and website through mailers, push notifications along with social media platforms as also digital media to engage audiences through relevant video, visual and timely content,” added Saksena. <div type="image" title="#CinemaIsBack_BookMyShow" msid="88342145" hostid="261"></div> BMS is also going to onboard brand advocates to highlight the safety measures being undertaken at the cinemas. It is also working with partners across industries including Amazon, ixigo and MyGlamm to curate special offers and discounts for its transactors through the festive season. Apart from movie tickets, BMS also sells tickets for other experiences and events too. So is the enthusiasm to those offerings encouraging too? “There is a definitive rise in demand across cities. However, the format of events (stand-up comedy, music concerts, festivals &amp; performances) will gravitate towards smaller-capacity ones (bars, restaurants, clubs) where Covid safety protocols can be implemented seamlessly. The pent-up demand for these events led to an average occupancy of 70% for an event with the 50% capacity guidelines, as permitted by the government. The capacity of these events typically ranges between 200-3000 attendees depending on the venue. We believe that audiences are elated to be back enjoying their favourite entertainment experiences thus providing some semblance of the pre-Covid live entertainment scenario. Currently, comedy, live music concerts and artist performances as well as regional theatre are amongst the most preferred and transacted events on BookMyShow,” explained Makhija. The response from smaller cities has been encouraging too and if the situation improves from where they stand today, both Makhija and Saksena are hopeful that the Tier II and III cities will contribute to the platform’s growth next year. Marketing during the pandemic While live events and cinemas were completely shut during the lockdown months, it was important for the platform to maintain its connect with its consumers. Apart from the #CinemaIsBack campaign, the strategy was also to keep talking to its audience. Speaking about its marketing strategy, Saksena said, “With an all-new integrated booking flow, keeping in mind the SOPs mandated by the government, and our #CinemaIsBack campaign across digital and social media, our focus has been on educating the consumers about the safety precautions undertaken by various partners across the industry while rekindling the memory and magic of the movie experience on the big screen with popcorns and beverages in tow. On social media, we have been engaging with our consumers through quirky, fun, nostalgic contextual posts and contests, providing an exhaustive collection of information, which in turn has been enabling consumers to make a well-informed decision even before they step out of their homes. As newer and newer content kicks in, we will expand our social media outreach, making it an all-encompassing programme with offers, contests and influencer marketing kicking in our brand ambassador initiative outlined earlier.” The way forward With cinemas opening in India and production houses announcing a line ups of big budget movies across languages and genres since the festive season this year, BMS anticipates the road to recovery to be smooth in 2022. “Over the next few months, we look forward to welcoming film enthusiasts and cinephiles #BackToTheatres for a safe entertainment experience through the festive season and beyond. Buoyed by the initial response to cinemas over the last month and given the staggering number of film titles set for release in December through Christmas and New Year, we believe we can expect strong growth from cinemas in the short-term itself. As far as live events go, globally countries like USA and UK have gone back to pre-covid levels and we are expecting a similar compelling return for live entertainment through 2022-23. The pace at which the country’s vaccination drive is progressing reposes confidence that the stage has been set for a long-impending revival of the entertainment business in India with all the standard safety protocols in place,” concluded Saksena.

Why BookMyShow is hopeful for a healthy revival in 2022

<ul><li>Cinema halls in India might remain shut for at least two more months until June end, predicts a report by Prabhdas Lilladher. </li><li>Akshay Kumar and Kiara Advani starrer Lakshmi Bomb might release directly on Disney+ Hotstar amid coronavirus pandemic. </li><li>Industry experts estimated that film exhibitors in India will lose at least ₹3,500 crores. Moreover, according to Shailesh Kapoor, CEO Ormax Media, these halls are losing ₹150 crore a week. </li></ul>There is bad news for all those who are wishing to rush to their nearest movie theatres soon after the lockdown ends. Cinema halls in India might remain shut for at least a month more until June end, according to a report by Prabhdas Lilladher. The coronavirus pandemic forced several states including Maharashtra and Kerala to close theatres a week before India announced a complete lockdown on March 24. It means they are already shut for 40 days which might extend to 60 days more. “The process of reopening will be gradual in nature. For instance, in some states where the COVID-19 risk is low theatres may open. However, till the time this rise resides completely, big-ticket releases may be postponed as producers may not want to lose out on business in other regions,” said the report. Every week that theatres remain closed, they’re accumulating losses to the tune of ₹150 crore, according to Shailesh Kapoor, CEO Ormax Media. Film distributors are staring at losses of ₹3,500 crore as of now, a<a href="https://www.firstpost.com/health/video-of-agra-quarantine-facility-inmates-reaching-for-water-food-goes-viral-distribution-delay-made-them-restless-says-official-8303381.html?utm_source=izooto&amp;utm_medium=push_notifications&amp;utm_campaign=Video%20of%20Agra%20quarantine%20facility%20inmates%20reaching%20for%20water%20food%20goes%20viral%20distribution%20delay%20made%20them%20restless%20says%20offic&amp;utm_content=&amp;utm_term=">ccording to CARE Ratings</a>. Even after they open, they might not see many footfalls due to malls and will also be subject to strict social distancing norms. Due to this bleak outlook, the stocks of PVR Cinemas and INOX are on a free fall. The stock of PVT saw a 55% decline in its share between February 19 and April 27. Whereas INOX share price has declined 58% between February 24 and April 27. There is more panic in the air Since Covid-19 is an unknown devil, a lot of new research is hitting the internet every day. Even as many people discuss if the virus is airborne, a research says that a common air conditioner can spread the virus. <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/careers/news/cisco-accenture-genpact-and-others-hiring-for-technology-profiles/articleshow/75399629.cms">Scientists in China have earlier claimed</a> hat air conditioners can infect 10 people who are sitting near an infected person. They studied a restaurant in Guangzhou, China where an asymptomatic case has infected nine people. They recommended an increase in distance between tables and improved ventilation to contain the spread. Uncertainty on the survival of Single screens Cinema halls in India have had a bad start in 2020. First of all, it had few hits to boast of like Tanhaji and Baaghi 3. Then the coronavirus outbreak forced it to close doors as per government orders. The worst-hit among these theatres were single screens. “Single screens have been facing an existential crisis for a long time. Already fraught with hygiene and maintenance challenges which were hurting footfalls, COVID-19 induced lockdown has posed a direct threat on their survival,” said the report. Single screens exhibitors are hoping to seek a relief package from the government Is online release the future of movies? From the other side, the closure of theatres has delayed the release of several big movies like Rohit Shetty’s Sooryavanshi starring Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif. A few producers are also considering releasing them directly onto streaming platforms. Akshay Kumar and Kiara Advani starrer Lakshmi Bomb is one such film that might release on Disney+ Hotstar amid coronavirus pandemic. The film, remake of Muni 2: Kanchana, is expected to be completed by June, <a href="https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/akshay-kumars-laxmmi-bomb-might-release-on-disney-hotstar-instead-of-theatres-report-2218162">said a media report. </a> Previously, Irfan Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan starrer Angrezi Medium was released on Disney+ Hotstar immediately after its theatrical release in March after Covid-19 concerns hit footfalls. OTT platforms in India too are upping their game, by launching shows and movies to engage people during lockdown. Amazon Prime, recently, added Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan a gay comic love story which was released in February this year. See also: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/entertainment/news/lockdown-watchlist-want-to-binge-watch-a-show-that-lasts-a-week-try-these-long-running-shows-on-netflix-amazon-prime-disney-hotstar-and-others/articleshow/75173116.cms">Lockdown Watchlist: Want to binge-watch a show that lasts a week? Try these long-running shows on Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+ Hotstar and others. </a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/entertainment/news/cinema-halls-await-for-behind-the-screens-as-they-lose-150-crore-a-week/articleshow/74689696.cms">Cinema halls lose ₹150 crore a week with lockdowns and delayed releases</a>

Cinema halls may not open in India until June end

<ul><li>Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs), domestic mutual funds are raising their stake in multiplex firms like Inox Leisure, PVR on hopes of <keyword id="9450879" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="theatres-reopening">theatres reopening</keyword> soon.</li><li>Investors cheered this development as shares of both multiplex stocks gained on July 27.</li><li>Analysts expect the multiplex industry to gradually recover in the second half of FY22.</li></ul>Multiplex chains, which are among the worst hit by the pandemic have finally found some hope as <keyword id="46604" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="theatres">theatres</keyword> are reopening as COVID-19-induced restrictions are being relaxed. <a href="https://www.livemint.com/news/india/maharashtra-shops-may-open-for-longer-hours-as-govt-set-to-relax-some-restrictions-this-week-11627264968238.html">Reports </a>said that Maharashtra government may announce more relaxations in the pandemic-related curbs, this week, imposed during the second wave of the coronavirus pandemic in the state. Moreover, the Delhi government on July 24 announced a slew of unlocking measures and allowed the cinema halls and theatres, and multiplexes to function with 50% capacity. Shares of Inox Leisure and PVR gained 6% and 1.3% respectively on July 27 at 12:51 p.m. Foreign portfolio investor (FPI) holdings in Inox Leisure have <a href="https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/markets/stock-markets/fpis-mfs-increase-stake-in-pvr-inox-leisure/article35546798.ece">reportedly</a> gone up by 8.09% year-on-year to 16.44% as of April-June 2021 from 9.53% in the same quarter last year. Also, mutual funds’ holdings also went up to 23.09% from 19.72% during the same period. Also, a <a href="https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/amazon-eyes-potential-stake-in-indias-inox-leisure-report/articleshow/84782764.cms">report</a> by Indian Express suggested that Amazon.com India is in talks with several domestic players in film and media distribution including Inox Leisure for a potential stake. It may be looking to expand its content streaming platform Prime Video. Reacting to the report, Inox Leisure released a statement on exchanges saying there are no discussions taking place with Amazon, nor were there any such discussions in the past. It stated the news report was factually incorrect. <div type="image" title="inox stock chart" height="900" width="1200" msid="84785863" hostid="261"></div> A report by Sharekhan Research expects gradual recovery in this space while it said multiplex business is going to be a sustainable model in the long term. “Expect gradual recovery over the next 2-3 quarters as COVID vaccination is catching pace… We believe the multiplex business is going to be a sustainable model in the long term given Indian movie-goers’ strong appetite for the silver screen… We continue to remain positive on the stock, given a net debt-free balance sheet and potential for healthy earnings growth over FY21-FY23,” said a report on Inox Leisure published on April 29. <div type="image" title="PVR stock chart" height="900" width="1200" msid="84785899" hostid="261"></div> Meanwhile, a report by Maybank Kim Eng Securities on PVR dated June 3 said it sees a threat from over the top (OTT) platforms witnessing direct release on their platforms. It hopes big movies will release on box office and not on OTT. “We factored in 67 million footfalls in FY22 estimates, as we expect a weak recovery in footfalls even during second half of FY22 which is contingent upon the government’s vaccination drive and reaching herd immunity, strong content pipeline -- key movies such as ‘Sooryavanshi’, ‘Lal Singh Chaddha’ and ‘83’ release on box-office and not on OTT,” said the report. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/cryptocurrency/news/elon-musks-tesla-second-quarter-earnings-show-that-its-bitcoin-holding-cost-the-company-23-million-in-impairment/articleshow/84784933.cms">Elon Musk’s Tesla second-quarter earnings show that its Bitcoin holding cost the company $23 million in impairment </a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/corporates/news/lok-sabha-mp-mahua-moitra-says-delisting-of-adani-power-need-to-be-looked-into/articleshow/84752594.cms">Adani Group in spotlight again — Lok Sabha MP Mahua Moitra says delisting of Adani Power needs to be ‘looked into’ </a>

Inox Leisure, PVR stocks shine on hopes of theatres reopening soon

<ul><li>MAI urges the government to open up <keyword id="6584707" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="cinema-halls">cinema halls</keyword>. </li><li>It said that there must be a start and the unlocking of cinemas in non-containment zones across India as it is the backbone of <keyword id="6541249" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="40" keywordseo="Indian-Film-Industry">Indian Film Industry</keyword>, accounting nearly 60% of revenues of film business. </li></ul>Since June 01, the government entered into an unlocking phase. Airlines, offices, high streets, markets and shopping malls have opened up by now but there has been no respite for theatres. Even under the Central Government’s <keyword id="9359618" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="15" keywordseo="unlock-2-0">Unlock 2.0</keyword> plan, cinema halls continue to be included in prohibited activities list. <keyword id="9468240" type="COMPANY" weightage="100" keywordseo="the-multiplex-association-of-india">The Multiplex Association of India</keyword> has expressed dismal over the government decision to keep cinema halls and multiplexes shut. In a statement released for the media, <keyword id="5244245" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="80" keywordseo="Multiplex-Association">Multiplex Association</keyword> of India said, “At a time when a significant part of the economy is being opened up, including domestic travel, offices, high street, markets, shopping complexes, etc., the Multiplex Association of India (MAI) feels dismayed that cinemas and multiplexes continue to remain in the list of prohibited activities under the Central Government’s Unlock 2.0 Guidelines. The Association finds it highly demotivating and disheartening when in fact, Cinemas and Multiplexes can become an example of how social distancing guidelines and crowd control can be best exercised in a safe and planned manner. As compared to the unorganised retail and shops that have been opened up, multiplexes and cinema are part of the organised sector, playing hosts to ‘revenue paying’ customers only and hence, in a better position to limit crowds unlike marketplaces and deploy all the mechanisms and guidelines for crowd control and social distancing.” “The multiplex industry in India employs more than 200,000 people directly. We are the backbone of the Indian Film Industry accounting nearly 60% of revenues of film business. The livelihoods of more than a million people – right from the spot boys to makeup artists, musicians, designers, technicians and engineers to cinema employees to directors and actors – hinges on the survival of Indian cinema. The lockdown has literally brought the entire industry to a standstill with losses mounting every passing day. An early decision to allow cinemas to open up will only help the mobilization of resources in the film industry’s ecosystem and would lead to gradual resurrection. In fact even after opening up, we anticipate at least 3-6 months before things return anywhere close to normal. On one hand where programming of new content will take some time to kick in; movie buffs on the other hand are expected to take a cautious approach before returning to cinemas. These are real challenges that the industry will have to overcome and we believe together, with the support of the government, we will be able to overcome them,” it further read. Globally, countries like France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Austria, Hong Kong, UAE, US, etc., and more recently, Belgium and Malaysia have opened cinemas. To which, MAI said, “Many countries have opened cinemas to the public with implementation of the highest degree of safety protocols and have seen a warm response by audiences. In effect, more than 20 major cinema markets around the world have started operating. MAI is of the firm belief that, there must be a start and the unlocking of cinemas in non-containment zones across India should be done post haste – there must be a beginning and an opportunity must be given to us, just like some of the other sectors.”

Multiplex Association of India expresses dismay after the government decides to keep cinema halls shut in Unlock 2.0

<ul><li><keyword id="10244637" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="multiplex-chain-inox-leisure">Multiplex chain INOX Leisure</keyword> now allows you to book an entire theatre for private screenings and all kinds of parties. </li><li>INOX Cinemas' <keyword id="749098" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Saurabh-Varma">Saurabh Varma</keyword> speaks to us about the logistics, marketing plan and the future of Cinema. </li></ul>After being shut for over six months and bearing the brunt of coronavirus, cinema halls across the country opened up on October 15. As different markets slowly opened up, the <keyword id="1938159" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="cinema-industry">cinema industry</keyword> facilitated a safe environment for their consumers as per government mandates. However, the audience is still wary about going to cinema halls and multiplexes in India are going out of their way to woo consumers back. They are tweaking their marketing strategies to reach to their consumers at different touch points in their ticketing journey and coming up with new ideas to use their premises. Multiplex chain <keyword id="105311" type="DOMAIN" weightage="20" keywordseo="INOX-Leisure">INOX Leisure</keyword> has come with an innovative solution to this problem. It has opened up its cinema halls for private screenings. It allows guests to reserve an entire INOX auditorium for a private show, entirely for their family members and friends. The guests get to choose the content of their choice, either from the current playlist, or an old blockbuster. The movies are available in Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, Bengali, Kannada and Gujarati. “We are planning to organise a lot of live events, invest in alternative content. You can have your birthday parties, anniversary celebrations, organise a planned marriage proposal, they can use the auditorium for any memorable occasion. You can do an office workshop and even organise a wedding. In fact, we also wanted to do an opera in one of our cinemas. So, sky is the limit,” said Saurabh Varma, Chief Marketing Officer, INOX. Sharing the idea behind these private screenings, Varma added, “With this, we want to make INOX a venue for entertainment that allows you to do a large amount of things that build memories and you cherish it forever. The pricing of these auditoriums are extremely affordable -- as less as Rs 2,999.” INOX has also tied-up with brand partners like Olympix, sporting channels to screen events in the auditorium. Apart from that, the multiplex is also going to organise video gaming competitions and planning to organise stand-up comedy shows within its premises. INOX is currently spread across 68 cities in India and is opening rapidly. Word of mouth has already started working its magic and INOX has seen a good response coming in from the audience. Verma said, “Thanks to Durga Puja, a lot of families approached us in Bengal. Thanks to various supporters of INOX who have spread the word. We have also tied up with local event organisers to reach out to more consumers.” Moreover, INOX has also tied up with social media influencers and is using social media actively to reach out to a wider audience and win their trust. For the first three months of the current financial year, INOX reported a loss of ₹73.64 crore, while revenues fell by almost 100%. However, Varma is confident that the audience will come back for private screenings and cinema will be back to normal by March-April. Voicing his optimism, Varma said, “Cinemas have been providing a mental escape to millions since decades, and would continue to do so in the post-pandemic world. We believe that a large segment of our audiences would feel more comfortable enjoying a movie, with just their family members and friends, or even by themselves. Cinema in India is here to stay. We can see that because of the kind of content that is made available in our country. Every movie is at least made in 5 languages. People are also more accepting of change now. They watch a Tamil movie in Bengal. By March or April, you will see amazing people coming to cinema to catch these movies. So I think the business is only going to grow and that’s our hope and vision we are working towards. We are confident that it will happen. Cinema will also complement OTT in a big way. Films which work in cinema and are watched again and again on other platforms.” “Corona may come and go, cinema is here to stay,” Varma signs off. To know more about INOX’s marketing plan and private screenings, watch the interview here: <div type="Video" msid="79123956" hostid="261" title="Multiplex chain INOX Leisure has come with an innovative solution to woo its audience" dataSource="BUSINESSINSIDER" thumbUrl="https://denmark.timesinternet.in/cmslite/api/app/images.jpg?msid=79123956"></div>

How INOX is using its cinema halls cleverly to bounce back to normalcy

<ul><li>Just when Bollywood seemed to be getting back on track with releases being planned and film shoots announced, a second surge in the number of Covid-19 cases has brought everything back to square one.</li><li>If there are no cinema halls, movies will go to OTT, but they will co-exist. A lot of good films cannot be held back, and for good reasons, they have gone to OTT, which may not have been their first choice. But they had to do it because of the pandemic.</li><li>Jehil Thakkar, Partner and media &amp; entertainment industry leader, <keyword id="6358918" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="deloitte">Deloitte</keyword> India shares how the cinema industry will change after all of this is over.</li></ul>Once again, the boards outside box-office windows across India read ‘Closed’, with no clarity as to when they will open. For theatres in states where there is no government advisory, lack of business is forcing theatres to down their shutters. On the other hand, COVID-19 and its accompanying health issues and restrictions have brought the film industry to a complete halt in terms of shoots, production and releases. The domino effect is massive as several other sectors in entertainment, media and many other businesses depend on films. The theatrical business, which in India forms the main revenue source for most films, has dropped to a trickle and is likely to remain there for the short term. As the second wave of COVID-19 accelerates across the country, theatres and production will be more widely impacted. While majority of the box office revenue in the country is generated now through multiplexes, single screens do remain a critical part of the distribution chain. The COVID-19 related lockdowns have hurt this part of the value chain much more than the multiplexes, which tend to be part of more resilient larger organisations. Many of these single screens and a few independent multiplexes may not ever open again. We lost a few in 2020 and we may lose some more in 2021. What many in the industry fear is the acceleration of a shift in viewing patterns. Consumers will make very judicious choices about the kind of film they want to consider viewing in the theatre. A larger than life, star film is more likely to draw an audience rather than a dialogue-based comedy or drama – which consumers may prefer to watch at home. This change had already been in process in large markets like the US and had begun to make its presence felt in India too. Going to see a film in a theatre is a family or community occasion across India, so we may see the Hindi film industry stage a strong comeback in the theatres later in 2021 if we see the COVID-19 tide recede. But what the pandemic may have forever changed is an established practice that saw films progress from one medium to another — from theatres to OTT to television, with fixed exhibition windows and gaps between each. With cinema halls still half-empty, and increasingly strained due to the lockdown in many parts of the country, many producers are opting to release their films on streaming platforms without waiting for a theatrical release; ‘windowing’ is, in effect, out of the window. The days when every film, without exception, would first go to the cinemas may not ever come back. We saw these industry practices break down in the US and are seeing this in India too. Over the last year – we saw many films that were intended for theatrical release but then premiered on OTT – as producers ran out of patience. While the performance of these films was mixed, many producers were determined to hold back films and wait for the situation to improve. There was a window of hope that theatrical revenue would return – especially early in the year as audiences trickled in and some films – Hollywood and south Indian releases – performed better than expected. These films may now yet again explore a release on OTT as the promise of return to normalcy stretches out. Even under-production films will see some costs rise due to COVID-19 related SOPs, lengthening timelines and regulatory restrictions. Another factor that will influence this trend is the hunger for content and capacity from OTT platforms. With over 45 OTT services in India, there is a battle for consumers. Quality content is key to drive consumers to platforms and also to convert them from free to paying subscribers. Production capacity too in the industry is limited. Production companies that can churn out film level production values at scale consistently are limited. Many OTT players, with large budgets for originals, are trying to up production capacity, which in turn may affect films and drive budgets and costs higher. The pressure to release capital and escalating costs may drive producers to explore all possible release windows in the short and medium term. To be sure, box office in India has a future and a robust one at that. The film sector will adapt and rejuvenate, as it always has. According to a Deloitte study, 83% of India watches video content on their mobiles, and this still makes the cinema experience something unique. Pundits had predicted the demise of the cinema when television was launched, then again when the video players were introduced and then again when DVDs came out. They were wrong every time. For the industry, no doubt these are challenging times, but this too shall pass and the show will go on.

Deloitte India's Jehil Thakkar on the future of Indian cinema industry

loans, tax waiverKolkata, May 13 () Cinema hall owners in WestBengal have urged the state government to waive their taxesand provide financial assistance and interest-free loans tothem in view of the closure of the movie screens due to thelockdown.The Eastern India Motion Pictures Association (EIMPA),Exhibitors' Section, in a recent letter to Chief MinisterMamata Banerjee, has urged the state government to reimburseat least 50 per cent of the salaries paid by the cinema hallowners to their employees during the lockdown period.The association has also sought interest-free loans ofRs 2 lakh per cinema hall after reopening of theestablishments so that the owners can pay their backlogs andreturn to business, the letter, made available to the media onWednesday, said.The body said it would take at least 18 months for thesector to return anywhere close to normalcy after the lockdownis lifted.It urged the state government to waive GST, show tax,local entertainment tax, property tax and other municipaltaxes for at least two years from the date of closure of thecinema halls.The association sought nominal imposition of servicetax so that cinema hall owners can upgrade the facilities."The effects of COVID-19 are nil revenue withsalaries, taxes, rent payments, electricity bills all accruingagainst zero revenue. Cinemas were the first to shut down andmaybe one of the last to be allowed to operate post-lockdown,"the letter said.It pointed out that over 500 single screens in WestBengal have downed their shutters over the last two decadesdue to a gradual decline in audience numbers and lack offunding to upgrade the facilities."The COVID-19 pandemic has struck the final blow tothe sector," the association said.EIMPA Exhibitors' Section Chairman Ratan Saha told on Wednesday, "If there is no incentive in the post-lockdownscenario for single screens and regional multiplexes, theowners, who will have to reduce seating capacity by 60-70 percent to maintain social distancing, will have to close downthe facilities and use the properties for other purposes."The association boasts of membership of owners of morethan 200 cinema halls in the state. SUSACD ACD

Lockdown: Cinema hall owners' body urges Bengal govt for aid,

Kolkata, May 6 () Owners of single-screen movietheatres in Kolkata are not very optimistic about the revivalof the ailing sector after the lifting of the lockdown, sayingthe pandemic has affected the concept of watching movies in agathering.However, they are hopeful that the movie theatres willretain their loyal audiences."We have to scale down our theatre's seating capacityby tweaking the arrangement of seats. We also have to stopscreening back-to-back shows to ensure that people do not bumpinto one another," Navin Chokhani, owner of Navina Cinema insouth Kolkata told .Chokhani also felt that movies meant for big screenscannot be released solely on over-the-top (OTT) platforms(streaming on the internet) as a section of the audience willreturn to the theatres after the return of normalcy."There have always been audiences who watch films onthe internet and people who rush to the nearby theatres.Producers will definitely keep that in mind," he said, inresponse to a query whether producers will opt for OTT if therelease of their films is delayed indefinitely due to theCOVID-19 outbreak.Arijit Dutta, owner of Priya Entertainments PrivateLtd that runs Priya Cinema on Rashbehari Avenue -- said theCOVID-19 outbreak has dealt a severe blow to the strugglingsingle screens and it will be difficult for them to make acomeback after the lockdown is lifted."When the halls reopen, social distancing has to beensured because of which show timings will have to be changedand releases will be fewer in number. It is difficult to saywhether running single screens will be even viable after allthis," Dutta said.He said the distribution business will suffer due tothe crisis which may lead to the emergence of other digitalmediums.Dutta felt the producers of medium-budget films mightgo for alternatives, OTT platforms included, if the impassecontinues as they have a lot of things at stake."We have to think of ways for sustenance asoverdependence on OTT will kill the single screens and theexisting distribution model," he said.Dutta, however, said he is not losing all hopes as hehas seen ups and downs in the sector during his long years inthe industry.Film distributor and hall owner Satadip Saha said 200single screens were operating in West Bengal before thelockdown, of which at least 60-70 may never open again afterthe lockdown is lifted.If major films are not released in cinema halls in thecoming days, the entire single screen sector will go into acomatose situation, a member of Eastern India Motion PicturesAssociation, the apex body of cinema halls and distributors inthe region, said.Suranjan Paul, owner of Minar, Bijali and Chhabigharmovie halls, however, hoped that screening of films in thetheatres cannot discontinue in the long run."The release of some films on the OTT platform can bean immediate response in the wake of the present situation dueto the lockdown but the quality of these screenings cannotmatch that of the big screens. Our loyal audience willdefinitely return once the situation normalises," he said.The Multiplex Association of India, in a statement,said, "We would like to urge all studio partners, producers,artistes and content creators to support the cinema exhibitionsector, a vital part of the value chain, by holding andreleasing their films in the theatres, once they open again.""We urge all studios, producers, artistes and othercontent creators to kindly respect the exclusive theatricalwindow, which has been a time-tested industry practice, agreedto by all stakeholders, not just in India but even globallyfor several decades," it said.The MAI hoped that after the crisis ends, thecombination of pent-up demand and promise of new movies willboost the film business and contribute to reviving theindustry."The collective, social experience of watching filmson the big screen needs to be preserved and it can be done soonly with the collective support of all the stakeholders," itsaid.A spokesperson of the association said, "We all hopethe crisis will end soon and people will return to thetheatres to watch movies on the big screens." SUSACD ACD

Kolkata cinema hall owners not optimistic about post-lockdown revival

<ul><li>According to a CARE Ratings report, film exhibitors in India will lose at least ₹3,500 crore as cinema halls shutdown. </li><li>Rating agency Acuite expects a precipitous drop of over 50% in multiplex footfalls in the next 2-3 months. </li><li>The multiplexes chain are now considering approaching the government to seek a relief package, including deferment of certain taxes. </li></ul>Cinema halls in India have had a bad start in 2020. First of all, it had few hits that enthused the public like Baaghi 3 or Angreji Medium. As <keyword id="1754604" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="coronavirus">Coronavirus</keyword> spreads, halls across many cities shut down as per government orders. The management of theatres are now busy calculating the losses as 5,000 screens across the country are shut and even those that are open have nothing to bring people to as March and April releases like Rohit Shetty’s Sooryavanshi and Ranveer Singh’s 83 have been postponed indefinitely. The halls are losing ₹150 crore a week, <a href="https://www.exchange4media.com/marketing-news/coronavirus-bears-down-on-bollywood-with-no-ticket-sale-hiked-marketing-budget-103373.html">according to Shailesh Kapoor, CEO, Ormax Media. </a> The effect might be temporary says PVR Cinemas and Inox PVR cinemas, which has 822 screens in 69 cities, says the effect may be temporary and they look forward to better times. INOX, which has 624 screens in 68 cities too is confident about their growth as the lockdown lifts. But the investors do not share their confidence. PVR has witnessed a 43% decline in its decline in the last one month. Whereas the share price of INOX saw a 39% fall between February 18 and March 18. 
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 Rating agency expects 50% fall in multiplex footfalls 
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 Several rating agencies are convinced that there would be a ripple effect. Moreso, because scientists are yet to determine whether warm weather can reduce the spread of coronavirus in India or not. Even in that case, a possible social isolation is advised till June. Rating agency Acuite expects a precipitous drop of over 50% in multiplex footfalls in the next 2-3 months, particularly for those which are primarily located in retail malls at Tier I or Tier II cities. "Typically, the holiday season of April-June is the peak time for big movie releases. However, the latter may get postponed due to the Covid-19 crisis," said Suman Chowdhury, president (ratings) at Acuite Ratings and Research. This quarter is completely washed out says Carnival Cinemas 
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 A few multiplex chains however acknowledged the situation like Carnival Cinemas, a multiplex chain in India with 470 screens across 120 cities. “This quarter is completely washed out and shall be down at least 40-50% as compared to last year. One, because the movie line up was weak and then the Covid-19 impact in March. It is unfortunate that the business is affected so much, but human life is of most importance,” said Mohan Umrotkar, CEO Carnival Cinemas. Considering the losses, multiplexes chains might move to the government to seek a relief package, including deferment of certain taxes. Industry insiders contend that restricted cash flows and mounting incremental costs such as rentals and operational expenses have left the sector in an untenable financial position. According to a CARE Ratings report, film exhibitors in India will lose at least ₹3,500 crore every month. That is extra bad news for the industry which was already reeling from loss of revenue from CAA protests and riots in the last quarter. See also: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/finance/news/the-us-box-office-suffered-its-worst-weekend-in-more-than-20-years/articleshow/74657349.cms">The US box office suffered its worst weekend in more than 20 years</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/coronavirus-hits-akshay-kumars-sooryavanshi-and-ranveer-singh-starrer-83/articleshow/74593762.cms">Coronavirus hits box office — 83 release may be delayed and Sooryavanshi struggles</a>

You Searched For "cinema halls in India" and got 12 results

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