Disney, UTV Partner for Family Films in India

MUMBAI: The Walt Disney Company in India has joined forces with UTV Motion Pictures, a leading Bollywood studio, to co-produce Disney-branded family films for local audiences.

The two companies will share creative responsibilities for the slate, with UTV handling production, marketing and distribution. The deal expands a relationship that began in 2006 when Disney purchased an equity stake in UTV Software Communications—subsequently increased in 2008—as well as acquired from it the kids’ channel Hungama TV. UTV operates across the TV, film and digital arenas.

“Together with UTV, our goal is to produce films that have a direct connection with the dynamic and expanding India audience and that embody Disney brand values—optimistic, fun, meaningful and emotional entertainment for the entire family,” said Mahesh Samat, managing director of The Walt Disney Company India. “From television to publishing to online gaming and studios, we are singly focused on developing stories, characters and experiences that reach into the heart of the community."

Ronnie Screwvala, CEO of UTV, added, “I believe this is a strategic initiative that further strengthens our relationship with Disney. It is a wonderful affirmation for UTV that a much loved global entertainment brand like Disney has the confidence in our creative and commercial capabilities and we welcome this co-production alliance. The combined offering of UTV and Disney content will offer Indian viewers a tremendously diverse range of movies across languages and genres.”