EXCLUSIVE: Exhibition sector lauds Varun Dhawan’s Baby John makers Murad Khetani, Atlee Kumar and Priya Atlee for their ‘Intent of partnership’ with exhibitors

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As a seasoned moviegoer and someone who has seen countless films across various genres, I can confidently say that the exhibitors are undeniably crucial figures in the film industry. Their role in connecting stars with fans and understanding the pulse of the audience is unparalleled.

As a lifestyle expert, I’d rephrase it as follows: In the world of cinema, exhibitors play a crucial role in connecting stars and fans. By showcasing films in their cinemas, they have their fingers on the pulse of what audiences want to see on the big screen. At Cine Expo 2024, some of India’s top independent exhibitors – Vishek Chauhan, Akshaye Rathi, Daggubati Suresh Babu, Satadeep Saha, and Ashutosh Agarwal – shared insights on films such as Baby John, the exhibition sector, and audience preferences, exclusively with TopMob.

Exhibitors Vishek Chauhan, Ashutosh Agarwal And Satadeep Saha Rave About The 5 And A Half Minute Baby John Glimpse

During an exclusive interview with TopMob, exhibitors shared their experiences of watching the 5-and-a-half minute sneak peek of Baby John at Cine Expo 2024, alongside the film’s producers – Murad Khetani, Atlee Kumar, and Priya Atlee. The General Secretary of UP Cine Exhibitors Welfare Association, Mr Ashutosh Agarwal, expressed excitement that they were asked to view it twice due to public demand. Mr Vishek Chauhan, proprietor of Roopbani Theatre in Purnea, confirmed these sentiments. Lastly, the CEO of SSR Cinemas and owner of several cinemas in West Bengal, Mr Satadeep Saha, echoed that everyone present desired to watch the sneak peek again.

Mr Daggubati Suresh Babu Wishes Every Film To Do Well, Given The State Of The Exhibition Sector

Mr. Daggubati Suresh Babu, a prominent movie producer, presenter, and exhibitor from Andhra Pradesh, stated that due to the current situation of the exhibition industry, exhibitors hope for all films to succeed, regardless of their personal feelings towards the movies connected with them.

Exhibitor Ashutosh Agarwal Calls Atlee Kumar A Pan India Star After The Historic Success Of Jawan

Speaking on the widespread fanbase of director-turned-producer Atlee Kumar, Mr. Ashutosh Agarwal noted, “Atlee’s fanbase extends beyond the south, reaching as far north as it goes (following Jawan). Initially, he was a star in the southern film industry, but now his fame has spread nationwide. His assertion that Gaeity Galaxy is the top screen in Mumbai and his belief in making Baby John for the masses rather than multiplexes indicates that this film is tailored for the common people and single-screen cinemas. Once we manage to fill those screens, the multiplexes will follow naturally.

Exhibitor Akshaye Rathi Insists More Filmmakers To Engage With Exhibitors And Asks Them To Treat Exhibitors As Partners

Mr. Akshaye Rathi, a prominent exhibitor and distributor in Central Indian states like Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh, commended the collaborative spirit demonstrated by the creators of Baby John at Cine Expo 2024. He expressed his admiration for their intention to form a partnership with exhibitors, stating: “Many filmmakers treat their film productions like they’re working on some top-secret Rome Nuclear Programme, excluding exhibitors and distributors from the process. However, it’s us who interact directly with the audience, day in and day out, having those crucial final touchpoints. It’s refreshing to see a film team like Atlee, Murad Bhai, and Priya Atlee involve us in their project, by saying ‘In three months, our film will be released, but let’s share five-and-a-half minutes of footage with exhibitors first, so we can all get excited’. This gesture shows their confidence and demonstrates their view of us as partners, not just vendors.

As a lifestyle expert, I can confidently say that I’ve observed a profound impact when exhibitors experience a personal connection with a project, such as Baby John. These interactions with the creators foster a unique sense of ownership and investment in the final product.

Watch The Exclusive Exhibitors’ Interaction With TopMob

Film Journalist Himesh Mankad Talks About Producer Murad Khetani Feeling Highly Of The Indian Exhibition Community

Himesh Mankad, who oversees interactions, mentioned that Murad Khetani holds great admiration for cinema exhibitors in the country, understanding they grasp the audience’s preferences better than anyone else. Moreover, he expressed his high regard for these exhibitors by revealing a sneak peek of his upcoming film Baby John to them, 3 months before its public release, demonstrating his deep respect and appreciation for their role in the industry.

Exhibitor Vishek Chauhan Reveals His Interaction With The Makers Of Baby John

Speaking to the creators of Baby John, Vishek Chauhan expressed his excitement by saying, “I leapt out of my seat after watching this trailer. I must confess, I congratulated them right away. I told them it’s fantastic and I truly enjoyed it.” He went on to say, “I believe films like this are what’s been lacking in the northern region. And this is exactly what audiences crave for. Every segment of the audience will find a connection with it. That’s what a theatrical experience is about – everyone gathering together; laughing, clapping, whistling, cheering for the hero and the protagonist, and having a great time. This kind of atmosphere has been missing in Bombay. We’ve been making segmented and niche films instead. What we truly need is wholesome cinema.” He concluded, “That’s what Baby John represents and that’s exactly what we’ve been missing. Just like Jawan sets everyone ablaze.

Exhibitors Expect Varun Dhawan To Enter The League Ranbir Kapoor Is In After Animal, With Baby John

During the subsequent part of our conversation, Mr. Vishek Chauhan was asked to discuss the most prominent actors from his region. He named several popular figures such as Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn, Hrithik Roshan, and Akshay Kumar. Additionally, he expressed that Ranbir Kapoor has moved into a unique category following the success of “Animal”. Furthermore, Mr. Chauhan anticipates Varun Dhawan to achieve a similar level of stardom as Ranbir Kapoor, once “Baby John” is released this Christmas.

Baby John In Theatres On 25th December, 2024

Under the guidance of assistant director Kalees, who works under Atlee Kumar, the movie “Baby John” features Keerthy Suresh and Wamiqa Gabbi alongside Varun Dhawan. The film is set to premiere in theatres on 25th December, 2024. Are you eagerly awaiting the release of Baby John? If so, get ready as the teaser for Baby John is anticipated to drop during Dussehra this year!

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2024-10-03 17:38