Q) What was the insight behind the 'Supermoon Drive-in' launch?
We want to bring back out of home entertainment and the joy of viewing a movie on the big screen. Through the 'Supermoon Drive-in' experience we wish to enable our audiences to enjoy watching a movie like they have always done in a multiplex or a theatre but in a socially distanced environment.
Q) Tell us a little about your partnership with Zee Studios for the same...
Being a part of the same Company, we are always looking for opportunities to collaborate internally and drive synergies, to innovate and provide our audiences with one-of-a-kind experiences. The launch of Supermoon Drive In and the releases of Khaali Peeli and Ka Pae Ranasingam have permitted us to be able to do just that.
Q)Any specific reason for choosing Gurgaon and Bangalore to screen the two premieres?
The Supermoon Drive-in is a pilot project for us. We had to be mindful of the safety and security of our patrons. The two cities seemed to be the best choice owing to current situation, the availability of space and resources needed to make this experience possible.
Q) Experiential is one of the sectors that has been terribly hit. What strategy have you adopted to stay relevant in this time?
While avenues for on-ground events have been temporarily stalled, we have been opening up newer avenues with various virtual events to ensure our audiences have something to look forward to.
With the upcoming 'Supermoon Drive-in’ and 'It's a girl thing' – a global platform aiming at empowering young teenage girls, we are optimistic about keeping the momentum of the live entertainment industry in the new normal.
The kind of viewership and engagement that the virtual events we hosted received is a testimony to the fact that a 360-degree digital and technology transformation is the key to stay relevant.
Q) What role will technology play in helping the live entertainment industry in India champion newer formats?
While companies have been digitally-abled, very few have been applying it to its fullest. Upgraded technology and constant innovation are the two critical riders for us as we aim at creating memorable experiences for audiences across age groups.
Live streaming has become the new norm these days and pay per view is becoming increasingly popular for this digitally dependent industry. This has also enabled a lot of international artistes to being open to performing in India from their countries.