International
MGM nears distribution deal of Bond film with Sony
MUMBAI: MGM is nearing a deal with Sony Pictures to release its 23rd James Bond film after its talks with Paramount broke down, it is understood.
Paramount declined to go below a 8 per cent distribution fee for the Bond film and also rebuffed MGM‘s request to partner on one of its summer films like the instalment of Transformers that is due to release on 1 July and J.J. Abrams and Steven Spielberg‘s Super 8.
MGM was hoping to convince Fox to renew its video deal with Fox Home Entertainment, that expires later this year. But it looks like Fox is disinterested in extending that agreement without the Bond film.
While it looks like that Sony has met MGM‘s terms, it is unclear which of its upcoming films, it will share with the lion.
The next Bond film starring Daniel Craig will be directed by Sam Mendes with a targeted 9 November, 2012 release.
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.
