World Television Premieres and Their Strategies

May 17
05:52

2024

Chetan Mahore

Chetan Mahore

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The battle for television premieres has become a significant aspect of the film industry, with channels vying for the rights to broadcast the latest blockbusters. This competition has led to a rapid turnover from cinema release to TV premiere, much to the delight of viewers. This article delves into the strategies behind these premieres, the impact on the film industry, and the channels leading the race.

The Clash of Titans: Akshay Kumar vs. Shah Rukh Khan

Just a month before Eid,World Television Premieres and Their Strategies Articles Twitter was ablaze with a heated debate between fans of Akshay Kumar and Shah Rukh Khan. The contention was over the simultaneous release of their respective films, "Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai Again" (OUATIMA) and "Chennai Express."

Akshay Kumar's fans were confident that OUATIMA would shatter all previous box office records. On the other hand, Shah Rukh Khan's supporters believed that "Chennai Express" would achieve blockbuster status without the need for extensive marketing. Their confidence was not misplaced; "Chennai Express" became the second film to enter the ₹200 crore club, only to be surpassed by "Krrish 3" shortly after.

The Rapid Turnover to Television

In the past, films would celebrate milestones like 100 days in theaters or golden jubilees. However, the focus has shifted to the ₹100 crore and ₹200 crore clubs. This change is largely due to the rapid turnover of films from theaters to television. For instance, "Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai Again," which underperformed at the box office, was broadcast on Sony Max within a month of its release.

This trend is not limited to underperforming films. "Chennai Express" was telecast just two months after its theatrical release. Other films like "Ghanchakkar," "Barfi!," "ABCD," "Shootout at Wadala," "Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani," "Special 26," "Raanjhanaa," and "OMG – Oh My God!" followed a similar pattern, premiering on television soon after their release.

Leading Channels in the Race

While many channels have adopted this strategy to establish themselves as leading Bollywood channels, only a few have succeeded. UTV Movies, Sony Max, SET, and COLORS are at the forefront, while networks like Zee and Star are still finding their footing.

The competition has now shifted to acquiring satellite rights for movies as quickly as possible. Channels are not just content with securing these rights; they also engage in extensive promotions to attract viewers. These promotions include outdoor innovations, mall activations, and various digital platforms. Behind-the-scenes gossip, film-related contests, and other tactics have proven effective in drawing audiences.

Viewer Satisfaction

Are viewers happy with this trend? The answer is a resounding yes. The quick transition from theaters to television allows audiences to watch the latest films from the comfort of their homes. This convenience has been well-received, as evidenced by the high viewership ratings for these premieres.

Interesting Stats

  1. Television Premiere Ratings: According to BARC India, the television premiere of "Baahubali: The Conclusion" garnered a staggering 26.54 million impressions, making it one of the highest-rated premieres in Indian television history. Source

  2. Revenue from Satellite Rights: The sale of satellite rights can contribute significantly to a film's revenue. For instance, the satellite rights for "Dangal" were sold for ₹75 crore, a substantial portion of its overall earnings. Source

  3. Viewer Preferences: A survey by Ormax Media revealed that 68% of Indian viewers prefer watching new releases on television rather than in theaters, highlighting the importance of television premieres. Source

Conclusion

The strategy of rapid television premieres has reshaped the film industry, benefiting both channels and viewers. While the competition for satellite rights is fierce, the ultimate winners are the audiences who get to enjoy the latest films without delay. As channels continue to innovate in their promotional tactics, the trend of quick television premieres is likely to persist, further transforming the landscape of film distribution.

This article provides a comprehensive look at the strategies behind world television premieres, supported by relevant statistics and insights. The rapid turnover from cinema to TV has become a defining feature of the film industry, much to the delight of viewers.

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