The Hindu Business Line : UTV to focus on film production

UTV has on its radar plans to produce seven films in 2005. These films will be also be distributed by UTV. But distribution goes beyond its own films. "Our priority is to focus on these aspects. Having set up our own distribution business we would like to build on it," Mr Screwvala said.

In the distribution arena, UTV would look at 12 international films and 12 Hindi films, including its own production. "Since we are into production of films it is mandatory that we also take control of distribution," he said. The rationale for entering distribution business is that a hold of the distribution side of film business helps limit the downside to the extent of 80 per cent while revenue gains can be limitless, Mr Screwvala says. The distribution business is largely untapped especially overseas.

In 2004, UTV was involved in co-production of two big budget films - Lakshya directed by Farhan Akhtar and Swades directed and co-produced by Ashutosh Gowarikar. The success of these films has prompted UTV to look at big budget films. But the entertainment company would look at a combination of big, medium and small budget films during 2005.

The three projects that are on the drawing boards are `D' a film being co-produced with Ram Gopal Varma; Mein, Meri Patni aur Wohh at a cost of Rs 4 crore and Blue Umbrella at a cost of Rs 2 crore. The latter two films are being produced by UTV.

Contrary to belief, Swades, which has Shah Rukh Khan in the lead role, has fared well across most territories such as Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, Madras and USA, where the film grossed $1 million. In some territories such as Uttar Pradesh, Nizam and the UK the film had an average showing, according to Mr Ram Mirchandani, General Manager, Motion Pictures, UTV.

The year that has gone by has clearly indicated that if budgets are strictly adhered to and preproduction planning is done meticulously, film making can be an attractive business, Mr Mirchandani said.

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