Movies
PVR INOX unveils Bengaluru’s largest cinema
Mumbai: PVR INOX, the largest and the most premium cinema exhibitor in India, has announced the launch of Bengaluru’s largest cinema at Phoenix Mall of Asia and its largest cinema in the South. The 14-screen Megaplex located in the largest and one of the most premium malls in Bengaluru features three premium formats – MX4D, ScreenX, and Insignia. PVR INOX also introduces the first MX4D, the immersive 4D movie experience and ScreenX, 270-degree cinema viewing in South India.
The new cinema will augment PVR INOX foothold in Bengaluru with 172 screens in 26 cinemas and in the state of Karnataka with 219 screens in 37 cinemas. The company consolidate its presence in South India to a total of 572 screens in 100 properties.
Located in the suburbs of Bangalore, the 14-screen Megaplex is the city’s most advanced cinema that includes the multi-sensory MX4D format, premium large screen format ScreenX, three auditoriums of PVR INOX’s luxury format, Insignia along with 9 premiere auditoriums with last row celebrity plush recliners. With a seating capacity of 1997 audiences, the new cinema is equipped with the best-in-class theatrical technology to offer an immersive and enhanced cinematic experience. This includes the 4K laser projection, advanced Dolby Atmos surround sound and Volfoni 3D screen.
Commenting on the announcement, PVR INOX Ltd MD Ajay Bijli said, “The Southern region is a critical market for us with a steady supply of regional content and passionate consumer demand. We have received an overwhelming response for all our premium screen formats nationwide, prompting us to unveil our largest cinema in South with 14 screens including 3 superlative cinema formats – MX4D, Screen X and Insignia. It has been PVR INOX’s strategy to make cinemas more experiential and this Megaplex at Phoenix Mall of Asia perfectly aligns with our vision.’’
The design harmoniously blends various shades of white, accented by a regal touch of Royal blue, imparting a luxurious ambiance. Strategic areas such as entrances and F&B spaces are elegantly emphasized using black accents amidst the whites, ensuring a delicate balance. Impressive video walls, signage, and ceiling features reflect the grandeur reminiscent of a Megaplex. By transitioning from whites to greys, the Insignia achieves a refined and opulent atmosphere. This timeless design promises a perpetually fresh appeal, welcoming customers to a comfortable and inviting environment.
Commenting on the announcement, PVR INOX Ltd executive director Sanjeev Kumar Bijli said, “We are delighted to launch our biggest property in South India, introducing the MX4D and Screen X formats to the region. Bengaluru is a fast-changing and dynamic city in Southern region and one of India’s fast-growing economies. Leveraging on the immense potential of the city aided by proactive governance, it offers one of the most promising destinations for expansion of multiplexes. We are excited to expand our presence in Karnataka with a world-class cinema.”
Hollywood
Paramount eyes $24bn Gulf support to fund Warner Bros Discovery merger: Reports
Sovereign funds line up funding as media giants chase streaming scale
NEW YORK: Paramount Skydance is in talks to secure nearly $24 billion in equity commitments from Gulf sovereign wealth funds to support its planned takeover of Warner Bros. Discovery, according to a WSJ report.
The funding push comes as Paramount Skydance advances its proposed $110 billion deal for Warner Bros. Discovery, which carries an equity valuation of $81 billion and is expected to close in the third quarter of 2026.
At the heart of the financing plan are three major Gulf investors. Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund is expected to contribute roughly $10 billion, while the Qatar Investment Authority and Abu Dhabi-based L’imad Holding are likely to make up the remainder.
Crucially, the proposed investments are structured as non-voting stakes. This means the Gulf backers would not have direct control in the combined entity, a move designed to ease regulatory concerns in the United States. Paramount executives reportedly do not expect the deal to trigger scrutiny from bodies such as the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States or the Federal Communications Commission.
If completed, the merger would bring together a formidable portfolio of entertainment and news assets, including CNN and CBS. The combined entity aims to better compete in a fast-evolving media landscape where streaming platforms are steadily pulling audiences away from traditional television.
The deal reflects a broader shift in global media, where scale is increasingly seen as essential to survive the streaming wars. By pooling content libraries, technology and distribution, Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros. Discovery are betting on size and synergy to drive future growth.
The involvement of deep-pocketed Gulf investors also underscores the growing role of sovereign wealth in shaping global media consolidation, particularly at a time when high-value deals demand equally large financial backing.
With shareholder votes and regulatory milestones still ahead, the proposed tie-up remains one of the most closely watched media deals of the year. If it clears the final hurdles, it could redraw the competitive map of the global entertainment industry.
