International
Fox names Ira Rubenstein as vp, digital marketing
MUMBAI: Twentieth Century Fox has named industry veteran Ira Rubenstein as executive vice-president of digital marketing. The former Marvel executive will oversee all digital marketing activities for the domestic marketing group, beginning next Monday.
“Ira is a crucial player in the digital marketing sphere and his track record speaks for itself, so we feel both thrilled and lucky to have him come to Fox at this exciting time,” said chief creative officer Tony Sella and chief marketing officer Oren Aviv in a joint statement. “He brings a unique set of skills and expertise to our growing team, who will benefit greatly from his leadership and innovative approach to marketing,” they said.
Most recently, Rubenstein served as executive vice president, global digital media group for Marvel Entertainment where he led the studio’s digital strategy.
Before joining Marvel, Rubenstein was executive vice president, content strategy and acquisitions for Sony Corp. of America.
International
Russia-India cinematic spectacle Persimmon of My Love set for grand Moscow debut
Hindi cinema style musical revives Indo-Soviet cinema ties for today
MUMBAI: A new chapter in cross-border storytelling is set to unfold as Persimmon of My Love gears up for its premiere in Moscow on 1 April 2026, marking the first large-scale cinematic collaboration between Russia and India in decades.
Positioned as a modern nod to the cultural exchange that once brought Indian classics to Soviet audiences, the film blends Hindi cinema flair with Russian storytelling, aiming to rekindle a long-standing cinematic friendship.
Directed by Marius Weisberg, the musical comedy follows two brothers navigating a lively world of music, family and romance. The lead roles are played by Demis Karibidis and Mikhail Galustyan, with Karibidis also contributing as a screenwriter.
Shot entirely in India, the production leans heavily into Hindi cinema style spectacle. Filming took place across Mumbai studios and the cities of Udaipur and Jodhpur, whose architecture was used to create the fictional setting of Khurmada. A crew of over 350 worked on the project, with large-scale sequences featuring up to 1,000 extras.
The film also brings Indian creative talent into the mix. Dance sequences are choreographed by Jay Kumar, while music by Zurab Matua features songs in both Hindi and Russian, adding to its cross-cultural appeal.
Backed by TNT channel, MyWayStudio and the Russian Cinema Fund, the project reflects a broader push to strengthen cultural ties between the two countries.
With its mix of colour, comedy and cross-border collaboration, Persimmon of My Love is not just a film release but a reminder that cinema, much like music, travels well across borders.
