International
Universal in a five-year distribution deal with MRC
MUMBAI: Universal Pictures has entered into a five-year distribution deal with Media Rights Capital (MRC) in which the former has agreed to distribute twenty films that MRC would produce in the next five years beginning from 2011.
Under the terms of the deal, Universal has committed to release the films domestically. Both the companies have also agreed to partner each other on worldwide release of individual titles.
Under the deal, MRC will pay Universal a distribution fee for handling distribution and marketing of four titles a year to Universal‘s release slate. Universal, will continue to produce and distribute an equal number of films every year.
Both Universal and MRC had earlier collaborated on Sacha Baron Cohen‘s Bruno, the to-be released The Adjustment Bureau written and directed by George Nolfi and M. Night Shyamalan horror thriller Devil.”
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.
