International
Bond 23 earns $45 million as product placement revenue
MUMBAI: After earning $ 45 million as product placement revenue, Bond 23, the 23rd Bond film has set a new record. Both MGM and distributor Sony have shattered the previous record of $ 20 million set by Tom Cruise‘s Minority Report.
Referring to cars, the super cop raced around the worldwide in an Aston Martin for years before switching over to a BMW. Known for his fine taste in luxury, Bond‘s watches, clothing and other accessories have long been sponsored by those looking for good marketing by association.
In 2006, Forbes noted that Sony had cut back to six brand advertisers in Casino Royale, eschewing them for promotional partnerships and higher costs for those that do put their products in the film. In comparison, Die Another Day had nine partnerships.
Bond 23, starring Daniel Craig will be directed by Sam Mendes.
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.
