(check out our Facebook page for some behind the scenes photos)
NEW - Bakeri Cookies TV Commercial
This new ad for Bakeri marks the relaunch of their cookie products. The shoot took place in Bangkok on a set that recreated a Tuscan/European kitchen and cafe. The Singaporean food stylist did a stellar job and there's a lot of buzz about this ad in Pakistan as Bakeri is not known for investing heavily in advertising. The response has been great however, and we're thrilled to show it for you here:
UN Human Rights Day Gets Great Reception
Human Rights Day 2009 – Wherever you live in this world, embrace diversity - end discrimination
Here's a press release from the UN about a Human Rights Day commercial we produced recently. We're so happy with the positive reception it received and the opportunity to support such a good cause.
On Human Rights Day, people from South-East Asia show how diversity can be a powerful voice against discrimination regardless of language barriers. “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights”, says Thai Pop singer and actor Khun Kob (Songsit Rungnoppakunsi). Children, a woman, an elderly couple and a worker, lend their voice to stress the need for opportunities, dignity, respect and equality. They announce an interpretation of the first sentence of the UDHR in their own language – Thai, Lao, Tagalog, Malay and English.
The PSA was produced by Benetone Films; created by Young & Rubicam Thailand and directed by Razneesh Ghai as a contribution for Human Rights Day in collaboration with OHCHR – Regional Office for South-East Asia and UNDP Regional Center Bangkok.
We thank them, the cast and the production crew for contributing their time and efforts to this production.
Here's a press release from the UN about a Human Rights Day commercial we produced recently. We're so happy with the positive reception it received and the opportunity to support such a good cause.
On Human Rights Day, people from South-East Asia show how diversity can be a powerful voice against discrimination regardless of language barriers. “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights”, says Thai Pop singer and actor Khun Kob (Songsit Rungnoppakunsi). Children, a woman, an elderly couple and a worker, lend their voice to stress the need for opportunities, dignity, respect and equality. They announce an interpretation of the first sentence of the UDHR in their own language – Thai, Lao, Tagalog, Malay and English.
The PSA was produced by Benetone Films; created by Young & Rubicam Thailand and directed by Razneesh Ghai as a contribution for Human Rights Day in collaboration with OHCHR – Regional Office for South-East Asia and UNDP Regional Center Bangkok.
We thank them, the cast and the production crew for contributing their time and efforts to this production.
Benetone Live Launches New Website
That's right. Our friends at Benetone Live have launched their new website and it's well worth a look! For you forgetful people, Benetone Live is the new division of the Benetone Group that plans and manages artistic performances, live entertainment, and social events in Bangkok. They have already put on some fantastic events, bringing in top notch international and local talent.
Take a look at the website for all the details on the Vir Das performance coming to Bangkok on November 27th!
BLUE Crew Sees Work in Action
The crew from Benetone Films that worked on the smash hit BLUE (read about BLUE here) , which opened last weekend to great reviews, was treated to a private screening of the film last night at Paragon Cineplex. The audience was thrilled by the action sequences and there were even some cheers and applause from individual crew members when the bigger stunts they'd worked on played out on the screen. It was a great night with a great movie and proud moment for Benetone Films.
Cinema Masters and Young Talent to Showcase Work in Bangkok
More than 80 international films will be screened at the 7th World Film Festival of Bangkok this year, featuring works from the European Union, Latin America, Asia and Southeast Asia. The festival aims to bring together the new and the old, the masters and apprentices, the classic and neo-experimental, and display the importance of continuity and development between the generations.
The festival is more than just film screenings, though - there are film-related talks like the Master Class Workshop, and other special events on the card as well. Probably the most unique and engaging aspect is a workshop, in co-operation with the Tri Continental Film Festival and Produire Au Sud from France, to guide film producers seeking funds for their new projects. At the end of the workshop, the most interesting film projects in Southeast Asia will be selected to receive funds and the makers will be invited to the final selection in France. COOL!
The movies will screen at Paragon Cineplex from November 6-15 and the schedule of screenings should be out soon. Keep up with all the latest news and info on the festival at the official website and go see some movies!
Benetone Live Presents - FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE with Comic Sensation VIR DAS
We told you it would happen and we're excited to bring it to you now. Benetone Live is kicking off a new event series dubbed Friday Night Live that will showcase various forms of live entertainment events featuring professional talent from both Thailand and abroad. The series aims to bring fresh entertainment choices to the hip and cultured circles of Bangkok (that means YOU!).
The series will premier with a special one night performance by internationally acclaimed stand-up comedian Vir Das on November 27 from 8:30 PM at the CenterPoint Playhouse in CentralWorld.
Vir Das is a young Indian comedian who has been seen in movies (Delhi Belly, Love Aaj Kal, Mumbai Salsa ), TV (News On The Loose: CNBC, Mumbai Calling), and as a top stand-up comedian performing before sellout crowds in major cities around the world. He receives praise and honors everywhere he goes tackling controversial issues and portraying complex human behavior with witty actions and one-liners. The Indian Express has lauded him saying, “Truly nothing escapes this comedic genius. Vir Das is a comedian to watch…”
He's hilarious, clever, and times downright raunchy (you're going to have to leave the kiddies at home for this one.) This is a rare opportunity and you're going to love this show. Don't miss it!
Tickets are now available to see Friday Night Live with Vir Das for 800 and 500 baht. For ticketing and further information contact (Bird) Keswarang Nantasriwiseskul at 083 540 9564 or 02 253 0124 OR email for info: bird@benetonelive.com.
International Bollywood Musical Hits Bangkok This Month
The story begins in India, in the deserts of Rajasthan, in the temple of Shiva. Ayesha Merchant is the granddaughter of Shantilal Merchant, who choreographed dances during Bollywood cinema's golden era. The Merchant family's tradition of performing Indian classical dance, with all its precise hand, foot and eye movements, is passed on to the young Ayesha, but she is more interested in the modern dance and music of new Bollywood...
Thus the stage is set for the internationally acclaimed dance musical, The Merchants of Bollywood. Making its way to Bangkok October 22-26 at Royal Paragon Hall, Siam Paragon, the show has already performed in the United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, South Africa, the US and Australia on its five-year international tour.
Written by award-winning director Toby Gough and produced by Mark Brady, the Australian Mumbai collaboration is a theatrical spectacle like any true Bollywood film. “Their energy is electrifying, their movements suffused with a rush of joy and yet ruthlessly precise, and the frenetic flow of onstage activity is almost non-stop,” a Times of London commentary observed. “It’s a high octane pleasure to warm up the coldest winter night.”
Here's what some Bollywood stars have to say about it:
Tickets are available through Thai Ticketmajor and we recommend you don't miss out on this spectacular show!
Thus the stage is set for the internationally acclaimed dance musical, The Merchants of Bollywood. Making its way to Bangkok October 22-26 at Royal Paragon Hall, Siam Paragon, the show has already performed in the United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, South Africa, the US and Australia on its five-year international tour.
Written by award-winning director Toby Gough and produced by Mark Brady, the Australian Mumbai collaboration is a theatrical spectacle like any true Bollywood film. “Their energy is electrifying, their movements suffused with a rush of joy and yet ruthlessly precise, and the frenetic flow of onstage activity is almost non-stop,” a Times of London commentary observed. “It’s a high octane pleasure to warm up the coldest winter night.”
Here's what some Bollywood stars have to say about it:
Tickets are available through Thai Ticketmajor and we recommend you don't miss out on this spectacular show!
Standard Chartered Ad - Pakistan - BTS
Here are some behind the scenes pics from the Standard Chartered TVC. Take note of the
recreated business-class seats and beautiful Bangkok scenery.
Benetone Live - Bringing Fresh Entertainment to Bangkok
We are very excited to tell you about Benetone Live, a new division of the Benetone Group that plans and manages artistic performances, live entertainment, and social events in Bangkok. They have already put on some fantastic events, bringing in top notch international and local talent, and have some really exciting plans in the works for upcoming projects.
Benetone Live specializes in conceptualizing, co-ordinating and promoting customized MICE and live events and we're going to keep you up to date with the newest ones as they come along. See their new-ish Facebook page and become a fan to get a look at behind the scenes pictures and news from past happenings.
And don't forget to stay tuned to this blog for first looks and exclusive opportunities to join upcoming Benetone Live events!
Standard Chartered Ad - Pakistan
Just up is our new TVC for Standard Chartered Bank Pakistan (SCB) & the Pakistan International (PIA) affinity card. This one is a stellar showcase of some of the diverse settings available for shooting films and TV commercials in Bangkok.
Being that the product is related to tourism, they decided to shoot here as Thailand is a key tourist market. Take note of the traditional floating market and beautiful night sky. A big draw for this shoot was also the fantastic art team which did a great job with the business class seat mock up.
Being that the product is related to tourism, they decided to shoot here as Thailand is a key tourist market. Take note of the traditional floating market and beautiful night sky. A big draw for this shoot was also the fantastic art team which did a great job with the business class seat mock up.
Toyota Fortuner Ad - Final Cut
Here's the final cut of the Toyota TVC we finished recently. Don't forget to check out the behind the scenes photos we posted also.
Levi Strauss India TVC - Starring Shahid Kapool
Here's a look at our TVC filmed in Thailand for Levi Strauss India starring Bollywood heartthrob Shahid Kapoor:
Omore Product Launch - Pakistan PART II
Here's a look at the second shoot for the new Omore ice-cream product line. For this shoot they were looking for a creepy house setting (Addams Family-esque).
Here's the finished shoot:
Here's the finished shoot:
Another draw for Omore was the top notch work by the artificial foods creation team. That's right... that's not real ice-ceam, but it sure looks delicious!
Omore Product Launch - Pakistan PART I
The crew from Omore in Pakistan is launching some new dessert products and came to Thailand for the shoots. Omore wanted to take advantage of the superb art direction team and diverse locations here.
Here's a look at the first shoot:
You'll notice the art direction team designed the color scheme to give it a child-like cartoonish quality (cat in the hat-esque) that along with the playful theme makes the Omore ice-pops look great!
Here's a look at the first shoot:
You'll notice the art direction team designed the color scheme to give it a child-like cartoonish quality (cat in the hat-esque) that along with the playful theme makes the Omore ice-pops look great!
Toyota Fortuner Ad - BTS
As promised we're back with some behind the scenes photos from our Toyota Fortuner ad. Take a look at some of the action pics from the shoot:
Thanks to everyone for all the good work!
Thanks to everyone for all the good work!
Toonpur Ka Superhero - Coming Soon!
Scheduled for release this December is the mixed live action and animation film (think Space Jam) Toonpur Ka Superhero. We worked with Stunt Director Jack Gill (Death Race, Wild Hogs, Talladega Nights) and a US based stunt team to pull off some hectic sequences.
We got permission from the aviation department to land a helicopter in the middle of the sea on a huge (over 100 meters) barge that we had to modify to accommodate the helicopter's massive size and weight. It was the first time anyone has been given the permit allowing such a maneuver.
We rigged two barges to pull off a stunt where a jetski does a jump and complete flip over a pier.
We also shot a stunt at the Hilton Arcadia in Phuket with a huge rigging that carried a motorcycle across two buildings (over 200 meters).
It was a great shoot and we cant wait for the release of this one. Check out the official movie website here.
We got permission from the aviation department to land a helicopter in the middle of the sea on a huge (over 100 meters) barge that we had to modify to accommodate the helicopter's massive size and weight. It was the first time anyone has been given the permit allowing such a maneuver.
We rigged two barges to pull off a stunt where a jetski does a jump and complete flip over a pier.
We also shot a stunt at the Hilton Arcadia in Phuket with a huge rigging that carried a motorcycle across two buildings (over 200 meters).
It was a great shoot and we cant wait for the release of this one. Check out the official movie website here.
Toyota Fortuner Ad
We just finished a TV commercial to be aired in India for Toyota's Fortuner. Benetone Films was responsible for all the rigging for the shoot. The ad aims to show the dual nature of the vehicle as efficient for the hustle and bustle of the big city and for long leisure drives through the country. We shot in 10 locations in Bangkok and Pattaya over three days.
(behind the scenes pics coming soon)
"Chunnu N Munnu" - Notes From The Crew
It just so happens that shooting just finished for the new family film Chunnu N Munnu and, as promised, here are a few more behind the scenes photos from this really fun upcoming feature and some nice words from the crew:
"...you redefined team work - every member of your team was amazing as a worker and more as humans... thanks to you and your team" - Aziz Sajawal, Director
"...What struck me was the efficiency, punctuality and above all the humanity that was evident in abunance with the whole team. This made for a very happy unit and this what made this long and continuous schedule really possible..." - Nadeem Khan, Dir. of Photography
"...you redefined team work - every member of your team was amazing as a worker and more as humans... thanks to you and your team" - Aziz Sajawal, Director
"...What struck me was the efficiency, punctuality and above all the humanity that was evident in abunance with the whole team. This made for a very happy unit and this what made this long and continuous schedule really possible..." - Nadeem Khan, Dir. of Photography
Big thanks to Aziz, Nadeem, and the rest of the crew for such a great shoot!
New Feature! - "Notes From The Crew"
We thought it would be nice if, when we finish a project, we share with you a little more from the shoot (i.e. stills, clips, etc.) and some notes from the crew we worked with. Partly we like this idea because you get to see a little more of what's happening behind the scenes and get a sneak peak at upcoming movies and commercials. And partly we like this because the crews we work with always have such nice things to say!
Keep an eye out for the first installment coming soon...
Keep an eye out for the first installment coming soon...
The Most Expensive Bollywood Movie Ever Made
Deep crystal blue water and intense action scenes are the formula for the new Bollywood blockbuster hit BLUE, set to be released this Diwali weekend (October 16th). Shot on location in The Bahamas and Thailand (nice!), BLUE is the most expensive Hindi movie ever produced. For Hindi movie fans this is a long anticipated project, and with the nods it’s getting from viewers outside the traditional fan base, the movie promises to be an international mega-hit.
BLUE is the story of three friends (Sanjay Dutt, Akshay Kumar, and Zayed Khan) living in the Bahamas in search of a sunken treasure. Lara Dutta plays the character of a glamorous beach babe and Katrina Kaif makes an appearance to round out the star appeal of the film. The story is fueled by danger, deceit, and action. Lots of action: In the air, on the ground, and for the first time in an Indian film, underwater.
One of the biggest draws to this film is its “international” feel. Director Anthony D’Souza made it clear that he “tried to make a film that looks like it is from Hollywood but is in fact a 100 percent Bollywood film.” And producers spared no expense to help him, bringing in some of the best film technicians from around the world. Specialist cinematographer Pete Zuccarini (Pirates of the Caribbean, Deep Blue Sea) was brought in to capture the beauty of the ocean and underwater sequences. Fast paced action sequences – we closed roads and highways and blew up all kinds of vehicles for these shots - are guaranteed to get you wide-eyed thanks to James Bomalick (Fast and Furious – Tokyo Drift, Live Free or Die Hard).
Make-up artist Nickolette Skarlatos (Pirates of the Caribbean 2 & 3, The Soloist) and hair stylist Clarabelle Saldanha (Transformers) brought their expertise even adding that Lara Dutt’s look was very similar to Hollywood star Megan Fox.
To impress music fans, the Oscar winning pair of composer A.R. Rahman (Slumdog Millionaire, Elizabeth: The Golden Age) and sound engineer Resul Pookutty (Slumdog Millionaire), were brought on to compose the tracks and handle sound for the film. More publicized, however, might be mention of Australian sensation Kylie Minogue, who was brought on to sing and dance for two of the most talked about songs and became the highest paid (more than $1 million) foreign star ever in a Hindi movie for doing so.
All in all, BLUE has the makings of a fantastic movie and Benetone Films is very proud to say we were a part of it. Here’s the official trailer (all the stunts not underwater were shot in Thailand), take a look and set aside some time in October to see the film:
Thailand Implements New Film Ratings System
After years of deliberation, and numerous delays, the Thai cabinet has finally passed a law which includes Thailand’s first ever film ratings system. Films released in Thailand will now receive an age-restricted certificate:
‘G’ (suitable for general audiences) -- No sex, abusive language or violence.
‘P’ (Promote) -- Movies that should be promoted on the basis of cultural or artistic merit.
‘+13’ -- No violence, brutality, inhumanity, bad language or indecent gestures.
‘+15’ -- Some violence, brutality, inhumanity, bad language or indecent gestures will be allowed.
‘+18’ -- No exposed genitalia, crime or drugs.
‘+20’ -- Sex scenes are allowed but no exposed genitalia.
Films do still run the risk of the trusty Ban from the ratings board – for movies that offend the monarchy, threaten national security, hamper national unity, insult faiths, disrespect honorable figures, challenge morals or contain explicit sex scenes – but seemingly with the new system in place this will occur less often than in the past.
The certificates are advisory (not enforced) with the exception of the ‘+20’ rating which is like the American NC-17 rating. No word yet on how entries in film festivals will be treated, or if movies that do give a peek at genitalia will be pixilated as they have been traditionally.
The issuing of the ratings comes just in time for the release of 4 movies that allow the ratings board to stretch its legs in the new scheme and allow us to get a sense of what to expect. No huge surprises here:
Quentin Tarantino's “Inglourious Basterds” (the first film to be rated) – ‘+18’
Hayao Miyazaki’s anime feature “Ponyo” – ‘G’
Korean film “Naked Kitchen” – ‘+15’
American Documentary “Young at Heart” – ‘P’
The ratings are required to be posted by distributors on all promotional materials and have already cropped up in many Thai film-related websites. Several newspapers are lagging in implementing the ratings in their editorials, and since the theater owners are only required to verify the ages of their patrons for a ‘+20’ rating it could take some time before the system becomes mainstream.
Nasser Khan – Sights Set on Bollywood Star in "Shadow"
Before you read this article I’d like you to close your eyes and, while keeping them closed, go to the kitchen and pour yourself a glass of water... Okay. Close your eyes and go to the closet and select what you’re going to wear tomorrow... Alright. Close your eyes and go ride a motorcycle… drive a jet ski… and jump off a building.
I'll wait here.
....
Did you do all that? Did you remember to keep your eyes closed the entire time? Good. Now you have some idea of what it’s like to be Nasser Khan, one of our personal heroes and star of the new action film “Shadow – The Dark Side of Truth”.
See, Khan was born with cataracts and has lived his life with only 10-15% vision in his left eye, completely blind otherwise. Despite this disability though, he was top of his class until visibility became too much of a problem and he was forced to drop out (in Class VIII). He then studied electronics repair and the tannery business, and in 1995 opened his own tannery. He became increasingly interested in the IT sector and in 2000 became the first blind man to pass all four Microsoft certification courses (MCSE, MCSD, MCSA, and MCDBA) which carried him on to opening several computer centers. Next came investments in real estate, and then insurance. He's also an accomplished musician on various instruments.
He's basically Donald Trump and Stevie Wonder.
And now, he’s tackling the big screen and performing all his own stunts... which mean he's also Jackie Chan.
He's Donald Wonder-Chan.
And now, he’s tackling the big screen and performing all his own stunts... which mean he's also Jackie Chan.
He's Donald Wonder-Chan.
For “Shadow – The Dark Side of Truth” Khan co-produces, acts, sings, dances, and performs a series of incredible stunts (ahem, you heard me right the first time: without the help of a stuntman). We line produced a good portion of this film and were blown away by his story and his performance. Apparently we weren’t the only ones - his beautiful co-stars Sonali Kulkarni and Hrishita Bhatt had nothing but praises for the man who Bhatt said was “a dream person to work with."
Yes, the movie is deliberately (and overtly) being marketed for the appeal of Khan’s real life story (he is, after all, a businessman first). But no, it does not come into the actual film where the integrity of the story and the rest of the cast is well maintained. This is an intense, energetic, and novel Bollywood action film and we highly recommend you checking it out – especially the parts in Bangkok!
*Author’s notes:
The movie was just released in India last week, so it won't be available right away for most of us, but I'll keep you posted as that changes.
I'm including this picture of "Shadow" stars Nasser Khan and Hrishita Bhatt for many many many of my own reasons:
Also... I will assume you didn’t actually try any of things I suggested when we started… but if you did, I hope you’ve cleaned up the floor, put away your work shirt and bicycle shorts, and I hope you were wearing a helmet. And from now on leave the wild stunts to the people who are actually visually impaired and know how to do them.
Headlines: Bangkok film fest lines up 'Old Hollywood Glamour'
By Parinyaporn Pajee Daily Xpress
Published on August 18, 2009
As visitor arrivals fall off, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is hoping lure punters back with "Old Hollywood Glamour" at the seventh Bangkok International Film Festival from September 24 to 30.
There's hope the fest will generate Bt3 billion worth of spending and deals for the film industry, officials said yesterday. "The TAT has invested Bt25 million out of Bt80 million, while the rest comes from the Federation of National Film Associations of Thailand and the private sector," says Jareuk Kaljareuk, federation president and festival director.
The theme, "Old Hollywood Glamour", means to combine the Hollywood's 1930s golden era with Thailand's of the 1960s. More than 80 features have been selected by the Thai Film Director's Association. "This year the trend for film festivals is to show serious movies and the Bangkok International Film Festival is no exception," says programming director Pimpaka Towira.
The opening and closing films were not revealed but confirmed titles include the Canadian drama "I Killed My Mother", the Cannes' Grand Prix winner "Un Prophete", the Thailand-set Swedish thriller "Mammoth" and "Burma VJ" by Danish documentarian Anders Ostergaard.
Action hero Jean-Claude Van Damme and South Korean actor Lee Byung-hun from "G.I Joe: The Rise of Cobra" will be among 200 stars strutting the red carpets.
An opulent opening is set for CentralWorld while a welcoming banquet will be held on the Chao Phrya. The Golden Kinnaree Awards are set for the Dusit Thani's Chatrium Suites Bangkok.
Seminars will focus on business concerns. "We will bring foreign filmmakers and investors to share their experience with Thai filmmakers. It will portray how Thai film industry can build up the creative economy," says Asst Prof Dr Chavana Pavaganun, festival vice-director.
Source: The Nation
Published on August 18, 2009
As visitor arrivals fall off, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is hoping lure punters back with "Old Hollywood Glamour" at the seventh Bangkok International Film Festival from September 24 to 30.
There's hope the fest will generate Bt3 billion worth of spending and deals for the film industry, officials said yesterday. "The TAT has invested Bt25 million out of Bt80 million, while the rest comes from the Federation of National Film Associations of Thailand and the private sector," says Jareuk Kaljareuk, federation president and festival director.
The theme, "Old Hollywood Glamour", means to combine the Hollywood's 1930s golden era with Thailand's of the 1960s. More than 80 features have been selected by the Thai Film Director's Association. "This year the trend for film festivals is to show serious movies and the Bangkok International Film Festival is no exception," says programming director Pimpaka Towira.
The opening and closing films were not revealed but confirmed titles include the Canadian drama "I Killed My Mother", the Cannes' Grand Prix winner "Un Prophete", the Thailand-set Swedish thriller "Mammoth" and "Burma VJ" by Danish documentarian Anders Ostergaard.
Action hero Jean-Claude Van Damme and South Korean actor Lee Byung-hun from "G.I Joe: The Rise of Cobra" will be among 200 stars strutting the red carpets.
An opulent opening is set for CentralWorld while a welcoming banquet will be held on the Chao Phrya. The Golden Kinnaree Awards are set for the Dusit Thani's Chatrium Suites Bangkok.
Seminars will focus on business concerns. "We will bring foreign filmmakers and investors to share their experience with Thai filmmakers. It will portray how Thai film industry can build up the creative economy," says Asst Prof Dr Chavana Pavaganun, festival vice-director.
Source: The Nation
Benetone Films Short Selected for Thai Festival
So last year we decided to go on an experimental creative endeavor and produce our own short film. The film, "5 Minute War", is the brutal story of two young (12 year-old) brothers forced to fight each other in an illegal boxing club in order to save the life of their mother. It was met with great reviews and was even an official selection of the Pai International Film & Animation Festival 2008. Well we were thrilled, to say the least.
And now, for those of you that missed it (and are living in the Bangkok area), "5 minute war" has been selected to play at the 13th Thai Short Film Festival on Saturday Aug 22nd, at 15:00. The festival is currently running and will continue through the 23rd and is being held at The Bangkok Art & Culture Centre, the Prathumwan Intersection (opposite MBK), here's a map - http://www.bacc.or.th/planavisit
Can't make it? Well we're not happy about that... but we'll forgive you if you take a look at the official page here, or watch the trailer here on YouTube.
A Bollywood Homage to Classic Kung Fu
Chandni Chowk to China is Bollywood’s first ever Kung-Fu comedy and it’s now available on DVD. Now normally we like to take some time to highlight our contributions to a project… and this time is no different, it'll come later… but there’s a lot more going on with this movie than just some amazing work on our part.
First of all, Bollywood’s never before made an attempt at breaking into the Kung Fu comedy realm (think Jackie Chan and Stephen Chow). But CC2C, which is much easier to say, incorporates the stylized comedy and superb stunt coordination with Indian themes and Bollywood choreography (think Jackie Chan and Stephen Chow dancing and singing in Hindi).
The film lucked out in getting Warner Brothers to co-produce and distribute the film in the US – WB’s first Hindi project – which helped to bring on some really big names for the project: from India is the routinely zero-to-hero star Akshay Kumar (Welcome, Singh is King) and the stunning Deepika Padukone (Bachna Ae Haseeno, Love Aaj Kal) ; from China is legendary Shaolin-style martial-arts actor Chia Hui Liu; and from the US is Hollywood actor (and real life martial artist) Roger Yuan. These actors are brought together for some beautifully coordinated fight sequences – including the first ever that the Chinese government has allowed to be shot on the Great Wall - thanks to action choreographer Huan-Chiu Ku (Fist of Fury, Romeo Must Die, Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon).
Did you get all that? Point is, these are some serious martial-arts people here and the folks from Bollywood really held their own in such unfamiliar territory (click here for an article on Huan-Chiu Ku’s doubts about Kumar) and it’s worth taking a look.
Another notable fact about this movie is that a large portion of it was filmed in Thailand (you knew it was coming). The crew decided to bring the shoot to Thailand for more than half of the film thanks to the low cost of shooting and the ease of attaining production permits. Benetone Films was there to scout locations, get said permits, assist stunt coordination with proper rigging (one of the best rigging crews that Huan-Chiu Ku said he's ever worked with, thank you), and recreate an entire Chinese village.
The film was met with mixed reviews and a good deal of controversy (completely banned in Nepal by the Nepalese government) over an apparent misrepresentation of the birthplace of Buddha. See the trailer here and if you like what you see (and have 2 and a half hours free... and don't live in Nepal) check out the movie!
First of all, Bollywood’s never before made an attempt at breaking into the Kung Fu comedy realm (think Jackie Chan and Stephen Chow). But CC2C, which is much easier to say, incorporates the stylized comedy and superb stunt coordination with Indian themes and Bollywood choreography (think Jackie Chan and Stephen Chow dancing and singing in Hindi).
The film lucked out in getting Warner Brothers to co-produce and distribute the film in the US – WB’s first Hindi project – which helped to bring on some really big names for the project: from India is the routinely zero-to-hero star Akshay Kumar (Welcome, Singh is King) and the stunning Deepika Padukone (Bachna Ae Haseeno, Love Aaj Kal) ; from China is legendary Shaolin-style martial-arts actor Chia Hui Liu; and from the US is Hollywood actor (and real life martial artist) Roger Yuan. These actors are brought together for some beautifully coordinated fight sequences – including the first ever that the Chinese government has allowed to be shot on the Great Wall - thanks to action choreographer Huan-Chiu Ku (Fist of Fury, Romeo Must Die, Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon).
Did you get all that? Point is, these are some serious martial-arts people here and the folks from Bollywood really held their own in such unfamiliar territory (click here for an article on Huan-Chiu Ku’s doubts about Kumar) and it’s worth taking a look.
Another notable fact about this movie is that a large portion of it was filmed in Thailand (you knew it was coming). The crew decided to bring the shoot to Thailand for more than half of the film thanks to the low cost of shooting and the ease of attaining production permits. Benetone Films was there to scout locations, get said permits, assist stunt coordination with proper rigging (one of the best rigging crews that Huan-Chiu Ku said he's ever worked with, thank you), and recreate an entire Chinese village.
The film was met with mixed reviews and a good deal of controversy (completely banned in Nepal by the Nepalese government) over an apparent misrepresentation of the birthplace of Buddha. See the trailer here and if you like what you see (and have 2 and a half hours free... and don't live in Nepal) check out the movie!
Making Of video - exclusive to our Facebook page
We've uploaded a really cool video that gives you a behind the scenes look at the work we did for a Spring Tea commercial. It's a short clip, but you get to see how complex this shoot actually was - since nearly the entire production was completed under water! Click on the title of this post to be taken to the page.
Benetone Films now on Facebook!
It had to happen eventually. Partly because everyone's been telling us how great it is... and partly just because we need some friends to hang out with on the weekends... you can now find us on facebook! Swing by our main page and become one of our lovable fans... just follow this link:
BENETONE FILMS ON FACEBOOK!
We'll be posting news there too, but also behind the scenes pics, TVC reels, and some other fun stuff that will be exclusive to our facebook page... so watch out!
BENETONE FILMS ON FACEBOOK!
We'll be posting news there too, but also behind the scenes pics, TVC reels, and some other fun stuff that will be exclusive to our facebook page... so watch out!
Indian Cinema beats US ,UK and China
Facts and figures which surprised the whole world:
Recently European Audiovisual observatory known for its in-depth study of Film, Television, video and multimedia Industry came out with its latest report Focus 2009 on Film market trends of different countries of World. Though the whole world already knew about the combined mass production of movies across India is much higher than any other country in the world, there were certain figures revealed by the study which surprised not only the cinema goers in India but the entire world.
It was evident that being the highest populated country of World , theater admission would be more as compared to other countries, but as high as 3.29 bn, which is equivalent to the combined figure of the other top 9 producing countries of World, reflects the interest of Indians towards cinema.
Though Bollywood has been misapprehended as Indian cinema for a long time, it accounts for 22% of the total films followed by Telugu and Tamil films accounting for 21% and 13% respectively. Growth in multiplex screens which now accounts for 65% -70 % of the total Indian box office boosted the revenue graph which increased by 12% compared to last year revenues.In 2008 Indian box office reached $ 1.8 bn with average ticket price as low as 25 INR on the other hand another Asian country Japan with an average ticket price as high as 600 INR reached $1.9bn mark. Unites states on the other hand generated revenues close to $9.7bn with theater admission of 1.3 bn approximately. Average ticket price in United states is $7. Similarly United kingdom touched a whopping figure of $8.5bn with only 164 million people going to theaters in 2008. Thus Indian cinema beats other countries when it comes to no. of movies produced and theatre admission whereas lags behind in box office collection.
Every year Indian film industry bears a loss close to $ 1 bn due to piracy which is eating a big portion of revenue generated every year. Film fraternity is trying hard to curb such practices and the day it’s eradicated, Indian cinema will give tough competition to other countries in terms of net box office revenues.
Source: Out of Box: August, 2009
http://www.outofbox.in/indian-cinema-factsfigures/
Recently European Audiovisual observatory known for its in-depth study of Film, Television, video and multimedia Industry came out with its latest report Focus 2009 on Film market trends of different countries of World. Though the whole world already knew about the combined mass production of movies across India is much higher than any other country in the world, there were certain figures revealed by the study which surprised not only the cinema goers in India but the entire world.
It was evident that being the highest populated country of World , theater admission would be more as compared to other countries, but as high as 3.29 bn, which is equivalent to the combined figure of the other top 9 producing countries of World, reflects the interest of Indians towards cinema.
Though Bollywood has been misapprehended as Indian cinema for a long time, it accounts for 22% of the total films followed by Telugu and Tamil films accounting for 21% and 13% respectively. Growth in multiplex screens which now accounts for 65% -70 % of the total Indian box office boosted the revenue graph which increased by 12% compared to last year revenues.In 2008 Indian box office reached $ 1.8 bn with average ticket price as low as 25 INR on the other hand another Asian country Japan with an average ticket price as high as 600 INR reached $1.9bn mark. Unites states on the other hand generated revenues close to $9.7bn with theater admission of 1.3 bn approximately. Average ticket price in United states is $7. Similarly United kingdom touched a whopping figure of $8.5bn with only 164 million people going to theaters in 2008. Thus Indian cinema beats other countries when it comes to no. of movies produced and theatre admission whereas lags behind in box office collection.
Every year Indian film industry bears a loss close to $ 1 bn due to piracy which is eating a big portion of revenue generated every year. Film fraternity is trying hard to curb such practices and the day it’s eradicated, Indian cinema will give tough competition to other countries in terms of net box office revenues.
Source: Out of Box: August, 2009
http://www.outofbox.in/indian-cinema-factsfigures/
The Benetone Films Blog is back in action!
THAT'S RIGHT!
Our blog has been out of commission for a while but we're back now in full force! We'll be bringing you the latest TV and film production news, behind the scenes from our newest projects, and even some surprises along the way. Thanks for joining us!
Here's a quick update of some of what's been going on with us recently:
TV:
"Domino's Pizza" Commercial - We just finished a really funny commercial for Domino's Pizza delivery service starring MTV India's hottest VJ, Cyrus.
Film:
"Chunnu N Mhunnu" - We're currently line producing this family film that follows a young hotel owner and his lovable chimpanzee friend as they fend off a bullying corporation that wants the little hotel for their own.
"LUCK" - Finally this highly anticipated, star-studded action film has been released and we're really excited about this one! Benetone Films headed the production of the climactic action sequence that is sure to blow you away!
That's just a little to get you caught up with some of our projects. Want to see some clips? Take a look at our YouTube page to see lots of 'em at www.youtube.com/benetonefilms .
Have any questions? Requests? Wanna tell us how you feel (probably loved) one of our projects?
Feel free to drop us a line!
And don't forget to keep checking back for our latest happenings...
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)