International
Nissan and Sony Pictures team up for ‘Gran Turismo’ movie campaign in India
Mumbai: Gran Turismo, the most popular racing video games in the world released under the Sony Play station banner since 1997. Sony Pictures Entertainment India in collaboration with Nissan Motors, have joined hands for a unique marketing partnership for ‘Gran Turismo’ a film highly awaited by movie enthusiasts and gamers. The film, which premieres in India on 25 August 2023, showcases the remarkable true story of a group of underdogs who dared to challenge the elite world of motorsports, forever changing the landscape of racing.
In 2008, Nissan introduced the ground-breaking GT Academy, a gamer-to-racer competition that shattered conventions by transforming video game racers into real-world racing champions. Teaming up with Sony PlayStation, this audacious partnership defied expectations and paved the way for aspiring talents worldwide to live out their dreams on the track.
Nissan Motors India Pvt Ltd (NMIPL) director – marketing, product & customer experience Mohan Wilson said, “’Gran Turismo’ captures the essence of Nissan’s ‘dare to do what others don’t’ spirit, where boldness knows no limits. It is a perfect connect with today’s bold and ambitious young generation in India who thrive on the mindset of outdoing expectations and go beyond what seems to be possible to fulfill their aspirations. We believe that by sharing this remarkable story together with Sony we inspire others to chase their dreams fearlessly in a time when Nissan is also embarking on a new journey for the brand in India.
Gran Turismo is based on the unbelievable true story of a team of unlikely underdogs – a struggling working-class gamer (Archie Madekwe), a failed former racecar driver (David Harbour), and an idealistic motorsport executive (Orlando Bloom). Together, they risk it all to take on the most elite sport in the world. Gran Turismo is an inspiring, thrilling, and action-packed story that proves that nothing is impossible when you’re fuelled from within.
The film not only celebrates the legacy of GT Academy but also underscores Nissan’s mindset of a progressive challenger but also Nissan’s legacy and passion in motorsports. It shines a spotlight on Nissan’s bold “dare to do” DNA, showcasing how the brand empowers young talents achieve aspirations and believe in themselves.
Directed by Neill Blomkamp, the ensemble cast includes David Harbour, Orlando Bloom, Archie Madekwe, Darren Barnet, Geri Halliwell Horner, and Djimon Hounsou. Sony Pictures Entertainment India releases ‘Gran Turismo’ in theatres on 25 August in English and Hindi.
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.
