MUMBAI: Multi Screen Media (MSM) has entered into a multi-year content partnership with NBC Universal International Distribution.
As a result of this agreement, MSM's English movie channel Sony Pix will now have access to Universal Pictures’ new US theatrical release.
Multi Screen Media CEO NP Singh said, “We always strive to get top quality content for our viewers. With access to Universal’s movie titles, we have put ourselves in a position to get the best movies that Hollywood has to offer. I am confident that with this deal, viewer needs will be well-met and their enhanced movie experience will steadily increase viewer loyalty to Sony Pix – our English movie channel.”
NBC Universal has had a landmark year in 2015 and is the first studio ever to have three films namely Minions, Jurassic World and Fast & Furious 7 each cross over the $1 billion mark in the worldwide box office in a single year.
The studio also recently passed the $5.53 billion mark at the worldwide box office, breaking the record for highest-grossing year – ever - for a studio in industry history. The current worldwide total to date is an unprecedented $6.38 billion.
This strategic multi-year deal will give Sony Pix access to Universal’s latest movie releases such as Fast & Furious 7, Jurassic World, Ted 2, Pitch Perfect 2 and Illumination Entertainment’s Minions, as well as the first installment in the studio’s various blockbuster franchises such as Jurassic Park, The Mummy, The Fast & Furious, The Hulk and Despicable Me.
Sony Pix will also provide viewers with access to other hit films from the studio such as Gladiator, the first three films in the Rambo franchise, King Kong, Schindler’s List, Ted and Notting Hill amongst others.
Sony Pix EVP and business head Saurabh Yagnik added, "Sony PIX is on a strong growth path and our objective is to consistently operate in the top two slots of the category. We strive to keep our audience amazed with investment in the right content and continuously innovate to break clutter. We have been aggressively strengthening our library through the right investments and our existing long-term deals with Sony Pictures Entertainment, MGM and Lionsgate have been successful. Now, our association with NBCUniversal is another step in consolidating our leadership position."
NBC Universal International Distribution & Networks president Belinda Menendez said, "With one of the world’s fastest growing major economies, we see tremendous growth potential in India and this deal reinforces how important this market is to NBC Universal. Further, we have always had a wonderful relationship with MSM/Sony PIX and are thrilled to partner with them to expand our reach in India and bring Universal’s new blockbuster hits and beloved library titles to their viewers in India."
