iSaurav

Moserbaer increased prices of DVDs for its old movie titles

2010-07-30T17:41:00.000+05:30

In my last post i said that a year back that how Moserbaer has increased its DVD prices from Rs. 34/- to Rs. 149/- and 199/- for its upcoming new bollywood titles and concluded that whether it was a market driven decision or Moserbaer or it just had a planned strategy to capture media attention and market and then to get back to same old DVD prices.

Now another shocking story comes in this year that it has increased prices of its old titles from Rs 34/- to Rs 125/- per DVD , which is really shocking since now other brands are selling there old titles for Rs 99/- or as low as 75/- ( Example Eros, YashRaj & Shemaroo) depending on the movies demand in the market.

For example two years back when i purchased a original DVD of Apne from Moserbaer it cost me only Rs 45/- whereas now if you will go then you have to pay Rs 125/- without any new content addition in the DVD.Similarly there are various movies like Guddu, Dil Se and so on whose prices have been increased in there new stock. Even Moserbaer home video website has become horrible for online shopping and it gets updated after a long time. For example if you visit Moserbaer Home Video, you will find "A Wednesday" as an forthcoming title on Blu-Ray whereas its Blu-Ray is available in the market from last 2 months.

Similarly there is a movie released on Moserbaer Home Video recently , " The Hangman" which is not been yet updated on the website and its available in the market from last 1 month. So online shopping has become a nightmare experience for its customers.

So it seems like that either there low cost strategy doesnt work at all and Moserbaer is now planning to get back in the old price slot of DVDs to sustain there business and lost there battles that it had started to curb piracy since now even there new movie titles are almost ranged between Rs 199/- (City of Gold-latest offering from Moserbaer) to Rs 299/- (Main aur Mrs Khanna), whereas now pirates have reduced a single original DVD copied movie DVDs to as low as Rs20/-.And without bringing any changes in its packaging and content offering quality, it seems difficult game for Moserbaer to bind consumers who remained loyal towards Moserbaer products and keep waiting for a movie to be released on Moserbaer Home Video(as a trend generated few years back among common man).

Along hardware piracy there is a huge peer to peer piracy of original movie prints where a person can download movies free of cost even before the DVDs comes in the market and with internet reaching to every household of India, it will another big piracy that have to tackle by home video players by bringing some new options to consumers.

So it seems a tough path infront of all home video players specially Moserbaer that promised so much at the time of its launch to curb piracy and attract more and more consumers, since general public will never pay 200 bugs when he is getting that same product in just mere 20 bugs or if he/she had an internet connection then they can just download it absolutely free of cost from website or from P2P application.

Lets hope its a market driven decision to make profit and very soon Moserbaer will again bring down its DVD prices to earlier price slots for both old and new titles else we have to rely on our best P2P application for movies if like this way Moserbaer kept on increasing prices every year after year.

Moserbaer Movie DVDs: 4th time hike in its prices since launch

2009-03-24T00:54:00.006+05:30

Now latest upcoming news for Moserbaer DVD lover is that they have to spend Rs 149/- per DVD for a single movie rather than its earlier price of Rs 99/- per DVD.

If we look back, then its the 4th time that Moserbaer has increased its DVD prices since its launch in late 2006. When Moserbaer entered the Home Video Market in late 2006, at that time it started selling both new and old titles for just Rs 34/- per DVD and that also helped it to grab attention of both consumer and media. It helped company in free publicity of its products at a huge scale and even company said that its model is too curb piracy for which they had lowered there profit point to very minuscule which they will get from a single product sale.

However in mere 6 months of time, Moserbaer increased its new titles prices to Rs 49/- per DVD and in few media publications, Moserbaer has backed its price hike decision by pointing out the hike in taxes and raw material prices.But sooner, Moserbaer has again increases its prices to Rs 50/- per DVD for new titles. In this cases also company pointed out and backed its decision of hike by giving out the reason of the difference that has been created between dollar and rupees at that time.
In late 2008, when Moserbaer acquired 25 movies from UTV then it started launching its all new titles in market with a price tag of Rs 99/- per DVD in December 2008. But since this time it hiked directly Rs 49/- per DVD, so it launched this new price tag with some "Winter Offer" and in few movies it gave some free DVDs of old titles to attract the consumers.

But now within 4 months since it launched its DVDs in a price tag of Rs 99/- per DVD, Moserbaer has gone ahead and if its official website is taken into consideration then Moserbaer has released DEV D on home videos for a price tag of Rs 149/- for DVDs pack, which contains a free DVD of making of the film also.

So now the big questions are:

Whether Moserbaer really entered the Home Video Market with its low cost products for curbing the piracy or just it wanted to make a space for itself in Home Video Market which was already over crowded with various players when Moserbaer entered this market?Now it has increased its prices since it has make enough space for itself to survive in this market.
Whether Moserbaer is also going to adopt the same price point and business model that has been adopted by various other players of home video market?
Whether Moserbaer DVD lovers are going to spend this amount or now they are going to switch to pirated ones? Since a large section of Moserbaer customers loved its product due to low its cost factor.
Or Moserbaer has loose the battle that it wanted to start against pirates before it could make any impact on pirates?

FIRST LOOK & SYNOPSIS: Little Zizou

2009-03-13T01:26:00.004+05:30

Movie: LITTLE ZIZOU
Release Date: 13.March.2009
Genre: Drama & Comedy
Banner: Studio18 & Mira Nair Productions
Director: Sooni Taraporevala
Music: Bickram Ghosh
Star Cast: Kurush Deboo, Boman Irani, Cyrus Broacha, Immaduddin Shah, Imaad Shah, Saurabh Ardeshir, Shernaz Patel, Zenobia Shroff, Mahabanoo Mody-Kotwa, Kunal Vijaykar, Tknow Francorsi, Kamal Sidhu, Dilshad Patel, Iyanah Bativala & John Abraham (Special Appearance)

Synosis:

Little Zizou is a comedy for audiences of all ages and nationalities. It is the rambunctious and moving story of how two battling Bombay families finally come to terms. In the spirit of Federico Fellini, with just a hint of Mel Brooks, Little Zizou presents characters who show us the necessity of love and the possibility of grace.
Xerxes, 'Little Zizou' as he's known, is an eleven year old soccer-mad Parsi boy whose fervent wish is that his idol Zinedine Zidane visits Bombay, His older brother Art is a talented artist whose wild fantasies come to life in surprising ways. Their father Khodaiji is a self-proclaimed protector of the faith who thrives on the attentions (and donations) of hopeful beliefs.
Art burns with unrequited love for the daughter of Khodaiji's arch rival, Pressvala, a free thinking newspaper publisher. And to the extreme displeasure of their other daughter, Xerxes adores the maternal Mrs. Pressvala. But the real fireworks begin when Pressvala writes a scathing critique of Khodaiji and public reaction is widespread.
As the two households intermingle and conflict, their differences become hilariously apparent and life becomes deliciously complicated for everyone.
Little Zizou stars a galaxy of Indian talent, and celebrates music, dance, lush Indian scenery, even heartbreak; a film that depicts the wonderfully unique and fascinating world of Bombay's Parsi community.

First Look (Poster):Theatrical Trailer:

FIRST LOOK & SYNOPSIS: Sikandar

2009-03-13T01:04:00.004+05:30

Movie: SIKANDAR
Release Date: 27.March.2009
Genre: Thriller; Drama
Banner: Big Pictures & Sudhir Mishra Productions
Director: Piyush Jha
Music: Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, Sandesh Shandilya & Justin-Uday
Lyrics: Prasoon Joshi, Kumaar & Neelesh Mishra
Music On: Big Music
Home Video On: Big Home Video
Official Website: http://sikandar.bigflix.com
Star Cast: R. Madhavan, Sanjay Suri, Parzan Dastur, Ayesha Kapur & Arunoday Singh

Synopsis:

Sikandar Raza is a 14 year old schoolboy in Kashmir. Ever since his parents were killed by militants 10 years back, he has lived with his aunt and uncle, in a small town in Kashmir. All Sikandar's desires revolve around the happiness of his foster parents, and getting the ball into the goal on the football field. One day, on his way home from a school football match, Sikandar finds a gun lying on the path. Despite admonishments by his newly made school friend, the 14 year old Nasreen, Sikandar picks up the gun, and thus begins a journey into the darker side of his nature. The quiet yet strong Nasreen becomes Sikandar's conscience keeper. She tries to dissuade him from giving in to the lure of the gun. However, all is not what it seems. Sikandar gets embroiled further and further in situations beyond his control, and people get killed. At first it seems that the happenings occurring alongside Sikandar's predicament are not connected. But, as layer upon layer unravels, it becomes clear that Sikandar is the innocent victim in a game being played out between the militants, the army, the peace bartering politicians and the religious heads of the little Kashmiri town.
The pieces of the puzzle come together at the very end, leading to a shocking revelation.

First Look (Poster):

Theatrical Trailer:

FIRST LOOK & SYNOPSIS: 8 x 10 Tasveer

2009-03-09T20:46:00.004+05:30

Movie: 8 x 10 TASVEER
Release Date: 03. April.2009
Genre: Thriller, Suspense
Banner: Percept Picture Company & T-Series
Director: Nagesh Kukunoor
Music: N.A.
Lyrics: N.A.
Music On: T-Series
Home Video On: T-Series Home Video
Star Cast: Akshay Kumar, Ayesha Takia, Sharmila Tagore, Javed Jaffrey, Girish Karnad, Anant Mahadevan

Synopsis:

8x10, is a story of a young man who has a supernatural power. A personal tragedy that leads him to use this unique power to unravel the mystery and a nail biting finish to comeup with startling answers.

First Look (Poster):Theatrical Trailer:

TATA Motors launched its XENON XT

2009-03-02T12:18:00.005+05:30

Tata Motors has finally launched its Xenon XT (Cross Terrain), a life style 4 door, 5 seater pickup in India last month that has been showcased in last years Indian Auto Expo, New Delhi. The Xenon XT combines stylish on road presence and comfortable interiors with off road capabilities of a 4x4.

The tall aggressive stance of the vehicle is complemented by the trademark ‘TATA’ grill, large wrap around clear headlamps and integrated flared fenders. Side indicators move to the outer rear view mirrors (ORVMs) and roof rails enhance the looks while lending themselves to accessorisation.However from the front, the Xenon XT gives you a similar look as we can observe in the TATA's new SUMO GRANDE.

Interiors are charcoal grey and can comfortably accommodate 5 in two rows. The vehicle offers comfort and convenience features like power steering, power windows, central locking, HVAC and electrically adjustable ORVMs.

The Xenon XT is powered by the widely accepted 2.2 VTT DICOR diesel engine with a peak power of 140 PS and a peak torque of 320 Nm. It has a 4X4 with an electrical shift-on-the-fly mechanism and a limited slip differential similar to the Safari. These, combined with a rugged ladder frame structure, a matching suspension and alloy wheels give the vehicle off road capabilities of an SUV. The load bed is a 1518 mm x 1414 mm area which lends itself to carrying equipment or having fun, as desired.
The Xenon XT can be customised to suit individual tastes and styles through a wide range of accessories such as bed-liners, fog lamps, canopy, boot lid, rollover bars and the like which will be on sale along with the vehicle.

The Xenon XT is priced at Rs. 7.62 lacs for the 4x2 version and Rs. 8.58 lacs for the 4x4 version, (ex-showroom Delhi). It comes in 4 attractive shades – White, Black, Silver and Mineral Red. The vehicle carries a warranty period of 2 years or 75000 kms (whichever is earlier) and will be retailed through 58 Tata Passenger Car dealerships across 39 cities to begin with. The Xenon is already being retailed in the overseas markets of Thailand, Algeria, Italy, Poland, Saudi Arabia and South Africa.

Now we have to see whether this new offering from TATA Motors as Xenon XT will help to attract SUV buyers and some new buyers towards TATA showrooms for this adventure truck or say towards this pick-up vehicle , which can be used largely for daily purposes.

FIRST LOOK & SYNOPSIS: Barah Aana

2009-02-26T16:26:00.003+05:30

Movie: BARAH AANA
Release Date: 13. March.2009
Genre: Drama
Banner: Bandra West Pictures
Director: Raja Menon
Music: Shri
Lyrics: N.A
Music On: N.A
Star Cast: Naseruddin Shah, Vijay Raaz, Violante Pracido, Tannistha Chatterjee and Arjun Mathur.

Synopsis:

Barah Aana is a comedy of real life set in today's Mumbai. The story revolves around three unlikely friends: a driver (Naseeruddin Shah), a watchman (Vijay Raaz) and a waiter (Arjun Mathur). The driver is an older man, stoic but dependable. The watchman, in his 30's, is a pushover at work but otherwise mischievous. The waiter is a young, swaggering chap, brimming with ambition. Living together, their different attitudes make for an interesting banter.

At some point, misfortune befalls the watchman, and due to a series of chance events, he stumbles into a crime. Striking upon a seemingly low-risk way to make good money, and discovering a new sense of self-confidence, he tries to entice the others to join him in a series of such crimes. Cat and mouse games ensue between the three as personalities change, but events soon spiral out of control, leading them in a direction that none of them had ever wanted to take...

First Look (Poster):Theatrical Trailer:

FIRST LOOK & SYNOPSIS: Siddharth- The Prisoner

2009-02-20T17:41:00.004+05:30

Movie: SIDDHARTH- THE PRISONER
Release Date: 27. February.2009
Genre: Thriller
Banner: Walkwater Media and Alliance Media & Entertainment Pvt. Ltd in association with Vistaar Religare Film Fund
Director:Pryas Gupta
Music: Sagar Desai
Lyrics: N.A.
Music On: N.A.
Official Website: www.vistaarreligare.com
Star Cast: Rajat Kapoor, Sachin Nayak & Pradeep Kabra

Awards:
1. Winner of Jury Grand Prize at ASIA PACIFIC SCREEN AWARDS.
2. Winner of Best Actor (Rajat Kapoor) at OSIAN'S CINEFAN 2008.

Synopsis:
Just released from prison, Siddharth Roy (Rajat Kapoor), a once famous writer, completes a new manuscript. He re-engages with the outside world, hoping that the new book will restore his reputation and also reconcile him with his estranged wife, Maya. Fate has other plans for Roy, when his briefcase gets exchanged at a cyber café with a similar briefcase containing a large sum of money. Roy looses the only copy of his new manuscript, while Mohan, the cyber café manager, comes under pressure from mob bosses to recover the lost money.

In the midst of growing despair about the lost manuscript, Roy is reconciled with his three year old son through a scheming housemaid. Unable to find happiness in the money he has found Roy begins to desire the custody of his son. Meanwhile the pressure mounts on Mohan as he looses his job and is forced to go into hiding from the mob. He must find Roy and money at any cost.

Based on the ancient text of the Rig Veda, the film explores the theme of renunciation (of desire) as the true path to enlightenment and freedom.

First Look (Poster):Theatrical Trailer:

FIRST LOOK & SYNOPSIS: Gulaal

2009-02-20T17:07:00.005+05:30

Movie: GULAAL
Release Date: 13.March.2009
Genre: Social Drama
Banner: Zee Limelight
Director: Anurag Kashyap
Music: Piyush Mishra
Lyrics: Piyush Mishra
Music On: N.A.
Official Website: www.zeemotionpictures.com
Star Cast: Kay Kay Menon, Mahi Gill, Aditya Shrivastava, Piyush Mishra, Deepak Dobriyal, Ayesha Mohan

Synopsis:
The film Gulaal is about an innocent student Dileep who comes to Jaipur to study, accompanied by his faithful servant Bhanwar. Here he comes in contact with Rananjay Singh "Ransa" (contemporary intelligent, sensitive young man who refuses to abide by traditions; his ideologies clash with his father's, the local raja), Jadwal (with old school of thought he is the college goon who rags Dileep); Anuja (professor ragged with Dileep; despair brings both together and a strong emotional bond develops between them) Dukey Bana (powerful local figure who leads an army of radical Rajputs struggling to get the Rajputana back from the Government of India challenging the very idea of democracy); Kiran (uses Dileep for power and personal interest).

Against a backdrop of local political intrigue, the film begins with a Rajput conglomerate gaining strengthen as Dukey Bana and a few ex-Royals convince a reluctant Ransa to contest for the college elections on behalf of the Rajputana party; Ransa and Kiran battle it for General Secretary's post. The rivalry between the two gangs intensifies and Ransa is forced to withdraw, which he resists. Eventually this leads to his murder by Karan (Kiran's brother and Rasna's illegitimate sibling). Using the sympathy wave, Dileep is compelled to contest elections in Ransa's place and made to win.

After losing the elections Kiran tries winning Dileep's trust, gets close to him and pretends to fall in love. As he tries to fit into the shoes of the General Secretary an insecure Dileep gets emotionally dependent on Kiran and distance grows between him and Anuja. Dileep finds himself trapped in political maneuvers and realizes that this is not what he had wanted. It dawns to him that he is being used by Dukey; when Dileep confronts Dukey, he is faced with a horrifying truth!

Dukey Bana is masterminding a Rajputana movement, to have a separate state ruled by Rajputs. In a gamut of Red faces (Gulaal is put over the faces to mask their true identity), Dileep sees the truth behind Dukey and his actions. So Dileep decides to resign from the post of the General Secretary.

Dileep resign and Kiran takes charge. As soon as in power, she refuses to meet Dileep and tries to get close to Dukey using her feminine charm. A lovelorn and rejected Dileep gets more and more frustrated, abusive and violent in desperation. This behavior creates a distance between Dileep and the people who truly love and understand him.

Blinded by his love for Kiran, Dileep goes into a frenzy becoming a sorry and inevitable victim of circumstances. The whole madness around Dileep intensifies; sense of conspiracy and feeling of a fake unrequited love push him to the edge... Gulaal races to an unforgettable climax... out of the faces painted in Gulaal, a face is revealed... the face of the new leader...

First Look (Poster):Theatrical Trailer:

FIRST LOOK & SYNOPSIS: Billu Barber

2009-02-02T14:22:00.004+05:30

Movie: BILLU BARBER
Release Date: 13.February.2009
Genre: Comedy; Drama
Banner: Red Chillies Entertainment & Eros International
Director: Priyadarshan
Music: Pritam
Lyrics: Gulzar, Sayeed Quadri, Neeraj Shridhar, Ashiesh Pandit
Music On: T-Series
Home Video On: N.A.
Official Website: http://www.billubarber.com
Star Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Irfaan Khan, Lara Dutta, Asrani, Rajpal Yadav & Om Puri

Synopsis:

Billu's life is changed when a film unit arrives at his village for shooting a movie. To Billu's surprise, the star of the movie is none other than Sahil Khan (Shah Rukh Khan) who was Billu's old school friend. Instantly, Billu becomes prominent man in the village and attains fame and respect. Villagers urge him to make acquaintance with the superstar, but Billu is intimidated by his friend's superstar status. He thinks that Sahil would never acknowledge his friendship with a barber. Billu strives to meet the star but is unsuccessful. Finally, he fails after lots of struggle. People suspect that Billu is fibbing in order to gain fame and start offending him. Billu's family and children become apprehensive about his claim. In the end, for an invited school function, the star reveals his past. He tells the audience that in his school days he had a friend who always stood by him in his hardships. He tells how much the friend helped him by providing food when he was hungry, provided clothes when he did not having any. He tells that the friend gave him the money to join acting by selling his ancestral ear ring and that friend happens to be Billu.

First Look (Poster):Theatrical Trailer:

FIRST LOOK & SYNOPSIS: The Stoneman Murders

2009-01-30T14:31:00.003+05:30

Movie: THE STONEMAN MURDERS
Release Date: 13.February.2009
Genre: Suspense & Thriller
Banner: Kaleidoscope Entertainment & Vistaar Religare Film Fund
Director: Manish Gupta
Music: Siddharth- Suhas
Lyrics: Kumaar & Manish Gupta
Music On: N.A.
Home Video On: N.A.
Official Website: http://www.stonemanmurders.com
Star Cast: Kay Kay Menon, Arbaaz Khan, Vikram Gokhale & Rukhsar

Synopsis:
After the serial killer aptly dubbed 'Stoneman' by the media has just claimed his fifth victim, the case is still of little interest to the Bombay Police force. But to suspended sub-inspector Sanjay Shelar (Kay Kay Menon), this killer poses an opportunity. Sanjay hopes to track this killer down and thus, possibly find an entry back into the police force. With the secret aid of his patronizing superior AIG Satam (Vikram Gokhale), Sanjay takes up the arduous process of tracking this killer down. But the official police investigator of the case Inspector Kedar Phadke (Arbaaz Khan) clashes incessantly with Sanjay as both of them, separately, delve deeper into the case. Even as the police jostle for leads and clues, the Stoneman stalks the streets unabated, claiming victim after victim…

First Look (Poster):
Theatrical Trailer:

FIAT LINEA: A new sedan for Indian customers

2009-01-17T00:20:00.005+05:30

Auto manufacturer Fiat India on Friday launched its much hyped and much awaited luxury sedan FIAT LINEA in India with a tagline of "Admiration Guaranteed". Its the first sedan launch for the year 2009 in Indian automobile market however a second launch of the year after the launch of Mahindra Xylo, which was also launched few days ago only. This car was about to launch last year only in December 2008 however Fiat India postponed the launch after Mumbai Terror Attack.This car will be available in both diesel and petrol versions in India.The petrol version of the car will be available in the price range of Rs 5.99 lacs to Rs 6.99 lacs (ex-showroom price of Delhi) while the diesel version is priced between Rs 6.89 lacs to Rs 8.10 lacs (ex-showroom price of Delhi).

The Linea will be available in four colours at the time of the launch-flamenco red, minimal grey, parla champagne and hip hop black. And it will come with 1.4 Litre engine for petrol version whereas in case of diesel variant it will be available with 1.3 litre multijet engine, that is already been offered in FIAT Palio Stile (Diesel Version). The car will also comes with safety features like Dual Airbags, ABS, EBD and also a new technology to Indian customers Blue & Me. Even it also comes with lots of luxury and comfort features inside and i think FIAT has tried to give customers better interior incase of LINEA rather than what it has offered in case of Palio Stile.The car is currently sold in more than 50 countries across Europe, Asia, Central and South America and Africa but now it will be manufactured in both India and Brazil and exported to other international markets along serving this two nations markets. The sedan will be manufactured at Fiat's plant near Pune and is the first major launch after the company introduced the diesel version of Palio Stile last year. The plant has a manufacturing capacity of over 200,000 engines and 300,000 cars as per company's statement.

This car has already met with a strong success across the world and although Linea has been designed with a strong Italian style but FIAT has taken Indian taste into consideration and incorporated required changes in Indian avatar of FIAT LINEA. Even FIAT has high hopes with this car to get back its lost glory and get back as an active player in Indian automobile sector. However its the coming time will only tell how far LINEA takes FIAT brand in India and whether it will be able to give back the lost name of FIAT in India.

The launch of the Linea is first in the line of three launches that Fiat will undertake this year, the other two being Bravo and Grande Punto. While most probably Grande Punto will be manufactured in India and will come at a price tag of upto 6lacs to fight with Maruti Swift and Hyundai's latest offering i20. But where is Fiat Bravo is concerned, it will be coming in Indian market at a price point of around 25 lacs to focus a particular section of peoples and thats why this car will be imported like FIAT has did in case of its last year offering FIAT 500 that comes around a price point of 15 lacs.For more information regarding this cars features, detail prices, images (both interior and exterior) and technical specifications, one can visit its official website:

http://www.fiatlinea.in

Era of Sedan is Over: Mahindra XYLO is here

2009-01-14T12:49:00.002+05:30

That is what the tagline for Mahindra's new outcome XYLO. They are hoping to challenge the might of sedans in the market for high-end vehicles and lift the sense of gloom in the sector, which is seeing tepid sales growth. Mahindra's had launched there much awaited product XYLO yesterday.

According to Mahindra's, the era of sedans is under serious threat since the sedan has long been considered the ultimate in high-end mobility but the XYLO is all set to change this perception. the XYLO would beat the current downtrend in the automotive market as it would pack additional comfort at a lower price. Priced between Rs 6.24 lakh and Rs 7.69 lakh(ex-showroom Delhi prices) for premium version, the diesel Xylo is also expected to compete with sports utility vehicles. The luxury sedan will be available at 57 select Mahindra dealerships in January and additional 44 from February.

XYLO will be available in four variants and eight shades—fiery black, mist silver, mint green, lucky lilac, gold shimmer, toreador red, java brown and rocky beige.

The car promises enough legroom both in the second and third row and its independent air conditioning vents ensure that the surround cool. Dual AC cools all corners of the car with individual controls for each passenger. Mahindra's XYLO is powered by 2.49 litre mEagle CRDe engine that delivers a power-packed 112 bhp with 240N meter torque over a range of 1,800 to 3,000 rpm. Leading vendors from India, Japan, the US and Germany have contributed to the development of this car, some of them are Bosch, Nippon, Subros and Lumax.The Xylo will be available in 4 variants - E2,E4,E6 and E8. XYLO has a longer wheelbase than the Toyota Innova and the XYLO is expected to be the most spacious car in the segment. The XYLO has a seating capacity of eight, whereas the E2 variant of XYLO has optional seating capacity of nine. The XYLO does not come with automatic transmission nor four wheel drive but Mahindra's might add a variant later on.

The XYLO is the most ambitious project of M&M after the Scorpio and will be introduced in several overseas markets, notably South Africa in the next six months. It will be launched in left-hand drive markets such as the US next year. M&M also plans to launch a petrol variant of the XYLO in a year’s time. M&M is also gearing up for its next big launch and has started working on a premium SUV codenamed W201. It plans to invest around Rs 550 crore in the project, and will roll out the vehicle which will be positioned above the Scorpio from its Chakan plant this year. Mahindra Xylo Specifications:

Engine: 2500CC, CRDe, M-Eagle
Power: 112bhp @ 3800rpm
Torque: 240Nm @ 3000rpm
Transmission: 5 speed manual
Top Speed: 160kmph (estimated)
Fuel Consumption: 10-11 kmpl (City), 14-15 kmpl (highway) (estimated)
Fuel Type: Diesel
Tires: 215/75/R15
Brakes: Discs (F), Drum (R)
Suspension: Independent coil spring suspension (F), Independent multi line coil spring (R)
Safety: ABS, EBD, Dual Front Airbags, Seat Belt Warning (D+P), Alarm System, Tubeless Tires

Mahindra Xylo Dimensions:

Overall length x width x height: 4525mm X 1770mm X 1880mm
Wheelbase: 2,760mm
Minimum ground clearance: 186mm
Dry weight / Curb weight: 1750 kgs
Fuel Tank Capacity: 55 liters

FIRST LOOK & SYNOPSIS: Delhi 6

2009-01-04T13:32:00.003+05:30

Movie: DELHI 6
Genre: Drama
Release Date: 20. February.2009
Banner: UTV Motion Pictures & Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra Pictures
Director: Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra
Music: A.R.Rahman
Lyrics: Prasoon Joshi
Music On: T-Series
Home Video On: Moserbaer Entertainment (already acquired the rights)
Official Website: http://www.delhi6.co.in
Star Cast: Abhishek Bachchan, Rishi Kapoor, Atul Kulkarni, Divya Dutta, Sonam Kapoor, Om Puri, Pavan Malhotra, Supriya Pathak

Synopsis:

American-born Roshan (Abhishek Bachchan), who brings his ailing grandmother back to India. Little does he know that the quick trip will turn into the longest journey of his life - a journey within. The backdrop of the story is the ancient walled city of Delhi, a character in herself. She represents the chaos, religion, beliefs and ethos of the Indian people. The pin code of the city is 110006, and with pride of love they call her Delhi-6.

First Look (Poster):Theatrical Trailer:

FIRST LOOK & SYNOPSIS: Slumdog Crorepati

2009-01-03T15:04:00.004+05:30

Movie: SLUMDOG CROREPATI (a.ka. SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE)
Genre: Drama
Release Date: 23. January. 2009 (in India)
Banner: Fox Searchlight & Celador Films
Director: Danny Boyle & Loveleen Tandan (co-director: India)
Music: A.R. Rehman
Lyrics: N.A.
Music On: T-Series
Star Cast: Anil Kapoor, Irfaan Khan, Freida Pinto, Madhur Mittal, Dev Patel, Imran Hasnee & Saurabh Sukla
Official Website: http://www.slumdogmillionairemovie.co.uk/

Synopsis:

The story of Jamal Malik, an 18 year-old orphan from the slums of Mumbai, who is about to experience the biggest day of his life. With the whole nation watching, he is just one question away from winning a staggering 20 million rupees on India's "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?" But when the show breaks for the night, police arrest him on suspicion of cheating; how could a street kid know so much? Desperate to prove his innocence, Jamal tells the story of his life in the slum where he and his brother grew up, of their adventures together on the road, of vicious encounters with local gangs, and of Latika, the girl he loved and lost. Each chapter of his story reveals the key to the answer to one of the game show's questions. Each chapter of Jamal's increasingly layered story reveals where he learned the answers to the show's seemingly impossible quizzes. But one question remains a mystery: what is this young man with no apparent desire for riches really doing on the game show? When the new day dawns and Jamal returns to answer the final question, the Inspector and sixty million viewers are about to find out. At the heart of its storytelling lies the question of how anyone comes to know the things they know about life and love. (By: Fox Searchlight Pictures)

Awards:

Won Audience Award for Director (Danny Boyle) & Writer ( Simon Beaufoy) at Austin Film Festival 2008
Won Black Reel for Best Actor (Dev Patel) & Best Breakthrough Performance ( Dev Patel) at Black Reel Awards 2008
Won Best British Independent Film, Best Director (Danny Boyle) & Most Promising Newcomer (Dev Patel) at British Independent Film Awards 2008.
Won Goldenfrog Award for Best Cinematography (Anthony Dod Mantle) at Camerimage 2008
Won People's Choice Award for Best Director (Danny Boyle) at Toronto Film Festival 2008
Won People's Choice Award for Best Director (Danny Boyle) at Chicago International Film Festival 2008
Won awards for Best Director (Danny Boyle), Best Screenplay (Simon Beaufoy) and Most Promising Performer (Dev Patel) at Chicago Film Critics Association Awards 2008
Won Award for Best Director (Danny Boyle) at Los Angeles Film Critics Association Awards 2008.
Won NBR Awards for Best Breakthrough Performance (Dev Patel), Best Screenplay (Simon Beaufoy) & Best Film at National Board of Review, USA
Won award for Best Cinematography (Anthony Dod Mantle) at New York Film Critics Circle Awards 2008

Except this awards movie has also been nominated for Golden Globes Awards, USA for 2009 at verious categories like for Best Director- Motion Picture, Best Motion Picture, Best Music Composer and Best Screenplay.

First Look (Poster):Theatrical Trailer:

(#NOTE: It should be noted that this movie has already been released worldwide with the title "SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE" and thats why this poster contains the title Slumdog Millionaire but in India its been renamed and releasing on 23. January.2009 with the title " SLUMDOG CROREPATI".)

FIRST LOOK & SYNOPSIS: Victory

2009-01-02T15:00:00.003+05:30

Movie: VICTORY
Release Date: 30. January.2009
Genre: Sports
Banner: Walkwater Media & Moving Pictures
Director: Ajitpal Mangat
Music: Anu Malik & Ranjit Barot
Lyrics: Syed Gulraz & Amitabh Verma
Music On: T-Series
Star Cast: Harman S. Baweja, Anupam Kher, Amrita Rao, Navjot Singh Siddhu, Allan Border, Dalip Tahil, Gulshan Grover, Mohindar Amarnath
Special Appearance: Mike Hussey, Stuart Clarke, Brad Haddin, Shoaib Mallik, Kamran Akmal, Waquar Yunus, Sanath Jayasurya, Chaminda Vaas, Muthaiah Murlitharan, Mahroof, Graeme Smith, A. Morkel, M. Morkel, Harbhajan Singh, Ashish Nehra, Ramesh Powar, Brett Lee, Simon Katich, Brad Hogg, Michael Slater, Dean Jones, Suhail Tanvir, Rao Iftekhar, Kumara Sangakkara, Fernando, Ajantha Mendes, Andre Nel, Pat Symcox, Dinesh Karthik, R. P. Singh, Praveen Kumar, Yusuf Pathan
Official Website: N.A.
Synopsis:

In India, cricket is much much more than just a game; it is a passion, an obsession, a religion!Millions of youngsters, in all the corners of the country, dream of playing for India! A dream which incredibly only ONE in every 100 MILLION realizes.'VICTORY' is the story of a father, Ram, who saw such an impossible dream for his son! This is also the HEROIC story of his son Vijay Shekhawat.Hailing from the small town of Jaisalmer, Vijay Shekhawat becomes India's latest world-class batting sensation and is catapulted to superstardom!But it is the glamour and the glitter of this very demi-god status that makes the young, vulnerable small-town boy Vijay stray from his true vocation of cricket. Unfortunately this leads to a loss of focus and to a miserable drop in his performance. But by the time Vijay realizes the error of his ways, it is too late and he finds himself thrown out of the Indian cricket team because of disciplinary reasons. Suddenly the hero of the cricket crazy India becomes a villain in everyone's eyes. His father Ram's dreams are shattered and suffer a paralytic stroke.This tragedy awakens Vijay's conscience and sense of honor. He wants to redeem himself in the eyes of his father and every Indian. Against great odds, he once again makes it back to the Indian team and gets to play in the finals of the Champion's trophy against Australia where he plays a stellar role in enabling India to win the Trophy. Where in the emotionally moving final, in spite of being hospitalized mid-innings because of an injury, Vijay returns to bat, risking permanent injury, when India are nine down, to pull off an impossible victory against the world champion, Ricky Ponting's Australia.In this, the last match of his life, Vijay Shekhawat fulfils his father's dreams and enters the pantheon of Indian cricket. That night itself he retires from Cricket and decides to spend the rest of his life with a mission to teach the budding young cricketers of India that cricket is not about playing for one's personal stardom, but for the pride of your country and the pride of every cricket-loving Indian. If 'GOAL' was the definitive soccer film, and"BULL DURHAM" the definitive baseball film then "VICTORY" will be the definitive cricket film.

First Look (Poster):
Theatrical Trailer:

Hyundai i20 launched in India

2008-12-29T20:49:00.006+05:30

After the grand success of Hyundai i10, today the company has launched the most awaited model of the year 2008 from Hyundai Motors India Limited, Hyundai i20.The Hyundai i20 possesses a 1.2 litre, Kappa, DOHC petrol engine with a max power of 80bhp@5200rpm and a peak torque of 11.4kgm@4000rpm. The i20 is meant to compete with the 1.3 litre Maruti Suzuki Swift Petrol. The i20 has active and passive safety equipment like anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and comes fitted with six airbags. The i20’s engine is similar to that of i10’s 1.2l engine. It is a premium hatchback model from the company that is priced between Rs. 4.80 lakh and Rs. 5.82 lakhs (Ex- Showroom price of Delhi). The company calls it “Uber Cool” car that is available in three variants and sports a fuel-efficient Kappa engine.

Designed to meet the high quality standards, the five-door i20 offers a large interior cabin and stylish exteriors. Featuring Hyundai's distinctive design motifs – a body coloured radiator grille flanked by piercing teardrop headlamps at the front and a striking rear light clusters – the i20's modern lines are further strengthened by neat detailing, including colour-co-ordinated bumpers, sills and wing mirror.

The i20's well-packaged interior boasts of generous levels of standard equipment. All the i20 models have AC/heating, tilt & telescopic steering, 60:40 split folding rear seats, dual tone beige interiors, 2 DIN CD + MP3 Music System, front & rear power windows, refrigerated glove box, a multi information display (which includes trip distance, engine running time, calendar, clock, temperature and audio display) and tachometer, as standard equipment. While the top-end model of the i20 comes with features like fully automatic A/C, leather wrapped steering wheel and TGS knob, steering mounted audio control (a first for this segment), foldable key with keyless entry function, alloy wheels, height-adjustable driver seat, electrically foldable and adjustable outside mirrors and the category first six airbags.However the model is presently launched in petrol variant only and diesel variant is not yet offered from the company but its being speculated that diesel variant will also be launched by early next year. The new model is designed specifically for the international customers and is available in seven colors – crystal white, black diamond, sleek silver, silky beige, sparkle blue, berry red and dark grey metallic.

The car will be manufactured at company’s Chennai plant and it will use the Chennai port for exporting the model to the countries across the world and meet its international demand. Hyundai is India’s largest car exporter and second largest car manufacturer that plans to occupy a larger market share in India and expand its product portfolio.

Last month only we saw the launch of Maruti Suzuki's A-Star in compact segment and in the coming year we will again see many automobile giants to launch there new products like Fiat is planning to launch its mid-sized FIAT Linea similarly Mahindra & Mahindra are also planning to launch there much awaited model Mahindra XYLO. Along that in compact segment, Suzuki is planning to launch its SPLASH model whereas FIAT will again try to capture the compact segment my launching FIAT Punto.

So in the year 2009 many new car models will come across the Indian consumers, and i hope that this new launches will bring back the lost smile in Indian Automobile Industry since they are facing a tough time after the global recession from September 2008.

(NOTE: Images may vary from original model of i20 of India, since this images are of i20 available in the european market)

Compiled By: Saurav Chakraborty

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Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi: Biggest hit of 2008?

2008-12-28T16:02:00.004+05:30

In what is being termed as the biggest hit of 2008, based on its first week box office collection, then Shah Rukh Khan starrer Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi has managed to collect about Rs 90 crores in its first 7 days, of which nearly half has come from the overseas markets. The movie has broken all records in terms of collection till now for any bollywood movie and which makes it the biggest blockbuster of the year 2008.

This exceeds earlier successful box office collections for the first 7 days, for films like Singh is Kinng (about Rs 48 crores), Race and Jodhaa Akbar (about Rs 45 crores each) released earlier this year. With Rab Ne, the Yash Raj banner has tasted success after a stint of commercially unsuccessful films like Tashan and Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic that were released earlier this year.

The total collections for Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi in India in its first week are around Rs. 42 crores net (i.e. gross collections of Rs. 70 crores). The total gross collections from overseas markets are over $4 Million (i.e. around Rs. 20 crores).

In the Middle East, Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi has broken all previous records for first week collections, grossing just under $1.3 million. The previous highest grossing film in the Middle East was Dhoom: 2, which grossed approximately $1.86 million across its entire run. Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi is on course to break this all-time record going into its second week. Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi has also had a grand opening week across all overseas markets, including the UK, USA, Australia, Europe, Africa, and Asia, and features in the list of the highest grossers for the opening week in most of these territories.

But as per the latest reports from Yash Raj Banners, it is said that the movie has collected a whopping 120 crores worldwide till its running second week and which makes this movie the biggest hit of year 2008 till now. However, the film got a mixed reponse from both audience and critics but still managed to made huge profits in terms of finance.With the long Christmas and New Year weekends ahead, the collections are expected to get a major boost.

However this friday release Ghajini has also started very well in terms of collection and it is being speculated that this movie would break all records of bollywood in terms of collection in coming days and even the movie has already became the highest grosser in paid previews collection.It is being expected after the start, that movie will be able to manage a collection of Rs 70 crores in its first four days only. If its happens then really Ghajini will set new records in bollywood.

So we have to wait and watch whether the Shah Rukh Khan starrer Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi able to attract viewers towards theaters in this Christmas and New Year weekends and able to remain the biggest hit of the year 2008 along the blockbuster of all time or it loses its crown to Aamir Khan starrer Ghajini in coming days.

Compiled By: Saurav Chakraborty

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Moserbaer also acquired "Tahaan" & "Dil Kabaddi"

2008-12-21T23:28:00.003+05:30

Latest happening in Home Video division is that Moserbaer has also acquired the home video rights of the movies "Tahaan" and "Dil Kabbaddi" along the 25 UTV movies. However much detail is not available right now about this films deals.So dont get shocked when you will see this two movies on Moserbaer Home Video within January along the six latest films DVD from UTV productions....

Tahaan

Tahaan was one of the critically acclaimed film of the year across many film festivals worldwide and which story revolves around a little kid and his donkey.
Its star cast includes Purav Bhandare, Anupam Kher, Rahul Bose, Rahul Khanna, Sana Shaikh, Sarika , Victor Banerji, Ankush Dubey & Dheirya Sonecha.

SYNOPSIS:

"Tahaan - A boy with a grenade" is a fable-like journey of the eponymous eight-year-old boy, whose life revolves around the pursuit to find real purpose in his little world. Tahaan (Purav Bhandare) lives with his grandfather (Victor Banerjee), his mother Haba (Sarika) and older sister Zoya (Sana Shaikh,) in the serene meadows of Kashmir. They all live in the hope that someday Tahaan's father, who's been missing for over three years, will return. The death of his grandfather leads the local moneylender Lalaji and his manager Kuka (Rahul Khanna) to take away the assets of the family, including their pet donkey Birbal, against repayment of a pending loan. Now, life for Tahaan, his mother and sister takes a turn towards rougher pastures. For Tahaan, bringing his favourite donkey Birbal back home becomes the sole purpose in life. After various efforts at money-making, Tahaan approaches Lalaji with the prospect of regaining his lost asset but is devastated to learn that an old man Subhan Darr (Anupam Kher) has bought Birbal and taken him across the mountains… the same mountains from where Tahaan's father never returned. But Tahaan sums up courage and chases after Subhan. The prophetic old man doesn't befriend Tahaan at first sight but slowly warms up to this energetic and determined soul whose love for Birbal is paramount. But at the end of the journey, Tahaan is further disheartened when Subhan gifts Birbal to his orphaned eight-year-old nephew, and even the long-time helper of Subhan called Zafar (Rahul Bose), cannot be of any assistance to poor Tahaan. On his way back home, Tahaan finally encounters a teenage lad Idrees, who convinces him that his efforts would never be sufficient to get Birbal back. Instead, he promises to get Birbal back for a favour. All Tahaan will have to do is carry a package across the mountains on his next journey. Seeing Tahaan's eagerness, Idrees hands him a grenade. He tells him that when the time is right he will be told what is to be done. Tahaan sets off on his second journey with Subhan and Zafar, the grenade and package tucked away under Birbal's saddle. What is the price that Tahaan will have to pay for Birbal? And how far will he go to save his only meaning in life? Tahaan is now at a crossroad where his ultimate decision would determine his fate… "Will he get Birbal back?"

Dil Kabaddi

Whereas Dil Kabaddi is an adult comedy movie which is from totally different genre as compare to Tahaan. And it mainly revolves around adult jokes that will tickle your bone and its story also revolves around two couples and there marriage along sex life. I have watched this movie in theater with my friends and trust me if your not watching it along your family members than you will really enjoy this film alot.

Its star cast includes Konkona Sen Sharma, Soha Ali Khan, Payal Rohatgi, Rahul Bose, Irfaan Khan and Rahul Khanna.

SYNOPSIS:

Caught in the web of Post-Marital boredom and the irresistible temptation of lurking out if the relationship for some fun, Dil Kabaddi tackles the journey of two modern day couples in urban India, Samit and Mita & Rishi and Simi.
While Samit is indeed proud of his philandering and thoroughly enjoys the adventure and experimentation, Mita is at receiving end of his adulterous ways. His pride along with her suffering defines their relationship. On the other hand, as Rishi tries really hard to walk that extra mile and get rid of his monogamy, Simi struggles to decide whether she is really cut out for something outside of marriage or not. His desperation coupled with her confusion, decide the dynamics of this relationship.
As the four saddle their Way on the marital marathon, they come across Kaya, who spices up the goings-on between Samit and Mita; Raga, who gives Rishi the motivation to take the next step; and Veer who ends up for a short stint with Mita, and becomes the sole reason for Simi’s confusion.
How the quartet handles these complex, sensitive matters of the heart, and how they solve the never ending quests which their hearts put them through, with some ending up with a broken heart, is essentially the crux of the plot of Dil Kabbadi.

Moserbaer will release both the movies on DVDs priced at Rs 99/- and VCDs of Rs 40/-. However this time i want that Moserbaer should include deleted scenes and other special features of this movie in its revised price DVDs. So that along a premium packed DVD at Rs 99/- we can also watch some special features in it.And i hope sooner we can watch such changes in Moserbaer's DVD's also like it did in case of packaging. I have purchased the DVDs of " A Wednesday" and "Mumbai Meri Jaan" and i was really very delighted after getting such premium packaging from Moserbaer, last such packaging was offered by Moserbaer in case of " Air Buddies" which was a Hollywood film.

Even this days Moserbaer is running a WINTER OFFER called as "BUY 4 & GET 1 DVD FREE " for its DVD customers, a person have to collect four coupons from this newly released DVDs at price range of Rs 99/- and on submission of this four coupons he can take home 1 free DVD of any new film included in the offer or say on which this offer is valid. The offer is valid till last week of January or till the company wants. Detailed information about this offer you can get from Moserbaer Home Video web page within few days.

The DVDs of movies on which this offer is valid are: A Wednesday, Mumbai Meri Jaan, Kismat Konnection, Welcome To Sajjanpur, Golmaal Returns, Tahaan, Dil Kabaddi, Fashion and Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye!

Even there are some reports that indicates that Moserbaer has also acquired the Home Video rights of Sushant Singh & Rajat Kapoor starrer Handmade Film's " HULLA". Most probably this movie is also been included in the above mentioned offer.The movie released in India in September 2008. If its true then soon you can bring this film at your also since the movie was critically acclaimed in some media section however due to its low promotion, the movie was a complete disaster at Box- Office.

And even when i get know about this movie release and thought to watch it after seeing its good reviews, the movie was already pulled off from many multiplexes within its first week due to unavailability of audience for the film. So i was really waiting for this film to come on DVDs.

Along this i also want that Moserbaer should acquire the home video rights of "MAHARATHI" & Vinay Pathak starrer " OH, MY GOD".

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FIAT: A New Start Once Again

2008-12-18T12:45:00.008+05:30

We all know that Italian automaker company, FIAT(Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino) is one the oldest automobile companies that started its operation and business in India. Its really shocking to hear that the present leaders of car makers in India like Maruti Suzuki and Honda Siel are celebrating there 25th and 10th anniverssary respectively in India but FIAT has already completed its 100 years anniverssary a long time back only.

And even there was a time when the Car of the Indian President use to be FIAT, then what went wrong that this company is struggling now to grab its market share rather we can say its trying for its survival in India. I tried to look on some of the factors and also tried to give some lights on the future plannings that are now been taken by FIAT to grab its market share in India in coming years with a bang.

No doubt that FIAT still had a good market share worldwide and its one of the car makers which is known worldwide for its design and ride quality that it offers to the consumer.But when we talk about India where it started its operation long back around in the year 1905, the story is totally different. FIAT has loosen its market share to its new competitors which entered in late 90s like Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai and Honda Siel. After that time its playing a loosing game in India and even after its various strategies and new launches to grab the market nothing seems to be going in favour of FIAT.

It introduces Palio and it was the first hatchback car for Indians but it also didnt able to create any impact since very sooner its competitors also launched there products which were more economical in terms of mileage and maintainence as compare to FIAT's offering Palio.And even from long time back to till that date FIAT was suffering with its after sale service since it doesnt have good number of service centres across India.However if we see from FIAT's point of view than Palio has done very well job as compare to its predecessors like FIAT Uno, FIAT Sienna and etc. But everything failed from FIAT's side and none of the new model launches able to create any impact in Indian market. The models which FIAT offered to Indian Consumers are: FIAT Palio( in different variants); FIAT Adventure 1.6; FIAT Sienna; FIAT Petra; FIAT Uno and so on.

Now whats the wrong decisions that FIAT has taken that made its current position like a looser in India. The some the factors which if FIAT has taken into account in its early days and worked on this factors then it might have changed the scenario. The factors which i felt responsibel for setback of this company are as follows:

Costlier cars in every terms that includes purchase price and its maintainence as compare to its competitors offerings;
Non-availibility of service centres in good numbers in India;
Very poor after sale services by FIAT dealers;
Above factors leads to a low resale value for FIAT cars.

Now i think FIAT has understood its mistakes and thats why we saw a Joint Venture between Tata Motors and Fiat last year and after that it has improved its after sale service since with this deal now the FIAT cars will be given after sale services by TATA motors, which had a second number of service centres in India after Maruti Suzuki.So no doubt FIAT solved its one major problem of after sale services in India with this Joint Venture.

And even FIAT knows the Indian market and it doesnt wants to quit from this market, thats why only it started revival of its strategies once again for India and announced a number of new launches for Indian market. With this FIAT has also stopped production of its all old car models in India.

FIAT Palio Stile
It launched Palio Stile petrol variant last year with new exterior looks and with a new fuel efficient F.I.R.E engine of 1.1 litre and also one more variant of 1.6 litre engine which it called as Palio Sports 1.6 so that it can also attract those consumers who loves earlier FIAT Palio for its power.It was the first model launch from FIAT's upcoming launches. With this launch it has attracted consumers since it has solved two problems of mileage and after sale service for FIAT cars.Its pricing has been kept between 3 lacs to 4 lacs ( On Road in Delhi) for Palio Stile 1.1 variants where as Palio Sports comes at a price of 4.5 lacs (On-road in Delhi).But this year we saw a new launch of Palio Stile in diesel segment which comes up with 1.3 litre Multi-Jet Diesel engine and with a new red FIAT logo. With this launch, FIAT has tried to attract daily commuters who needs diesel vehicles at cheaper cost and also offers a good mileage. In this case Diesel Palio offers 26 kmpl ( as per company and its in ideal conditions) and its comes up in between 4 lacs to 5 lacs (On -road price in Delhi).

So now at present FIAT is offering only three models to Indian consumers one is Palio Stile( petrol variant) and another is Palio Stile Multi-Jet (Diesel Variant) but along this two cars FIAT is also offering FIAT 500 to the Indian Consumers which comes up with a hefty price tag of 15 lacs (On-Road in Delhi). However this car is not been manufactured in Indian FIAT factories but it has to be imported from Italy after you book this car. Even according to company FIAT 500 is only launched in India for a special segment of peoples rather than for masses and thats why its not been manufactured in India.FIAT 500
Fiat India has launched the FIAT 500, a two-door lifestyle car come in April 2008 and which will carry a price tag of, hold your breath, Rs 13 lakh (Rs 1.3 million) plus.It is being launched as an image building exercise for FIAT in India after years of struggle in the highly competitive Indian market.

FIAT is riding the New 500 wave across Europe since its July 2007 launch and has also collected the coveted European Car of the Year 2008 award.The car competes with the BMW built Mini, yet another retro designed lifestyle car in Europe. The fight will continue in India as well as BMW is planning to bring the Mini to India too.

Though only 3.55 metres long, the New FIAT 500 is safer than some of the bigger cars and has already received a five star rating in EuroNCAP tests. The car features seven airbags (an industry first for a car in its class) including a knee-bag. All cars feature electronic stability programme - yet another luxury car feature.

The Fiat 500 as well as the Mini will come through the CBU (completely built unit) route, hence the stupendous price tags. The FIAT 500 is currently available in two variants- Lounge and Sports.This car also got a tage name of " BABY FIAT".The FIAT 500 expects celebrities, youth and auto enthusiasts as its target customers. The 500 sports comes with a 4-cylinder, in line engine that delivers 75bhp@4000rpm. The 1248cc Multijet engine is capable of peak torque of 145Nm@1500rpm.

And as per company reports, FIAT has already sold 41 new FIAT 500 after its launch in April 2008.

Upcoming Models
In upcoming models FIAT was planning to launch its mid-sized FIAT Linea by December but after Mumbai Terror attack, company has shifted its launch to January next year.FIAT Linea will compete with Hyundai Verna, TATA Indigo, Maruti Suzuki SX4 and with FORD Fiesta. After Linea, FIAT will launch FIAT Grande Punto in between 2009 which will compete with Maruti Suzuki Swift, Hyundai Getz and latest Skoda Fabia. Followed by Grande Punto launch, company is also planning to launch FIAT Bravo in India by next year 2009 only. And if all this models get good response in market then sooner you will see a number of launches from FIAT since the company has almost 30 models in its bag but just waiting for a appropriate time to launch them in India. Now lets have a brief look on the upcoming three models from FIAT: Linea, Grande Punto and Bravo.

FIAT Linea
A lot has been talked about this car internationally as well. The Fiat Linea has been designed from dot by Fiat Style Center. The main objective was to design a sedan which would appeal to all. So the car had to look uncluttered yet elegant. Sporty even, if possible! Which the Linea manages to look, with aplomb.The Fiat Linea is not just a Grande Punto with a boot. It is a far cry from that! Linea sports smooth lines and there is a perfect harmony between the sharply raked windscreen, A, B and C pillars and it gives the car a uniform look from nose to tail. The front is characterized by large projector type headlamps which have a ‘Bravo-inspired’ look to them. The grille gives a stubbly look and helps the car look intimidating. The neatly integrated fog-lamps also add to the look. The rear is dominated by a simple yet attractive boot and those tail-lamps endows the behind with a luxury-car look. Standing at over 4.5m in length and 1.7m in width, the Linea is 1.5m tall and carries a wheelbase of 2600mm. It looks stunning, specially in profile. A gorgeous machine this.

Fiat has always been known for good ride and handling compromise, so it will be business as usual for Linea as well. Expect comfy ride quality and dynamic handling with accurate steering response and a delightful gearbox. Hope Fiat has gained knowledge from its past experience and will offer the Linea with all the safety and luxury options like ABS, airbags, climate control, leather upholstery etc.The car will also come up with a BLUE & ME Device.An array of engines are there in Fiat’s kitty that it could offer the Linea with. A 1.3-litre multi-jet diesel that already powers the Swift could come in as an entry-level diesel option which will be complemented by a 1.4L diesel and petrol option too. It is our personal wish that the Linea be powered with a 1.6L petrol motor in addition to the 1.9L diesel. Giving another petrol option might be a 1.4-litre, 78bhp engine.

Expected Price: 6 lacs - 8 lacs
Expected Launch: January 2009

FIAT Grande Punto
A car that would appeal to the masses and bring in good numbers. The Grande Punto was just that.It turned around Fiat’s fortune in a way that could be possible only in dreams. The Grande Punto is the third generation of the Punto and was launched globally in 2005. Styled by Giorgetto Giugiaro, the Grande Punto has a beautiful body to exhibit with sloped back headlamps and muscular wheel arches which lends it a mean yet attractive look. The rear section integrates well into the bumper and the large tail lamps give added character to the overall stance of the Grande Punto.The car is likely to offer a choice of three engines. A 1.2L and a 1.4L petrol that pump out 65 and 77 horses respectively will be joined in by a 1.3L multi-jet diesel engine that Fiat is now famed for. This engine is known for its tractable nature and delivers 88PS of power to the front wheels. My speculation speaks that since a 1.6L motor is already on offer in the Palio Stile, something similar might be presented with the Grande Punto as well. The car will be packed with safety features like ABS and EBD, though the same cannot be said about the airbags as of now.

Entering the action-packed B segment, this car will be at war against names like the Maruti Suzuki Swift, Hyundai Getz and Chevrolet UV-A. Skoda will do its bit by making things interesting with the launch of the Fabia in this segment. The Grande Punto will roll out from the Ranjangaon facility of Fiat near Pune. The company revealed that it will have high levels of localization for the car and this should help as far as the pricing is concerned.Expected Price: 4.5 lacs to 6 lacs
Expected Launch: May-June 2009

FIAT Bravo
Fiat Bravo is Fiat's new small family car introduced to the press in January 2007 in Rome, and later at the Geneva Motor Show in 2007. It is the second generation car of the earlier sold FIAT Brava which FIAT sold in International markets. The car was designed by Fiat Style Centre.CAD engineering and computer simulations were used on a very large scale with this model and the design was finished to a very tight schedule.

However much information is not available about Bravo's techinical specification as per as India is concerned because yet no official information is given by FIAT authority regarding this cars engine and pricing.In international market, FIAT is selling this car with 1.4 litre petrol engine and 1.6 Litre , 1.9 Litre and 2 Litre Multi-Jet Diesel Engine. In Australia, the Fiat Bravo will be sold as the Fiat Ritmo, as Mazda Australia owns rights to the "Bravo" name. The Bravo will also be built in Brazil from late 2009 or early 2010, and will be sold there and throughout South America. This cars also come up with FIAT and Microsoft tie up invention device, BLUE & ME.

Expected Price: above 5 lacs
Expected Launch: last quarter of 2009

So with coming years we will know whether FIAT would be able to create any impact in Indian market and build a new position for itself with its new models of Palio Stile and with its upcoming models like FIAT Linea, FIAT Grande Punto and FIAT Bravo.And except the new launches whether its Joint Venture with TATA Motors will help its after sale service and attract customers to buy FIAT cars in coming years in that quantity that it can give a tough fight to its competitors in India as its doing in International Markets.

Compiled By: Saurav Chakraborty

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Moserbaer acquired UTV's home video library now

2008-12-17T21:40:00.010+05:30

So finally its officially announced news that Moserbaer has acquired another Home Video company that is UTV. However till now it has only acquired the hindi catalogue of UTV Home Video which consists of 10 movies but UTV also contains many Hollywood titles of studios like Miramax and many World Movie titles which are recently acquired by UTV and are not part of this deal.This deal also doesnt include the rights of UTV's Jodhaa Akbar since this year only UTV has sold it to Big Home Video.

Along UTV's old hindi catalogue, Moserbaer has also acquired 15 new movies from UTV which consists of six recently released movies and rest 9 upcoming movies of UTV. It should be noted that Moserbaer has only acquired the domestic home video and rental rights of this films and not the international rights, and this rights are sold to Moserbaer for a period of next five years.According to some of the business dailies, the deal has been finally struck between this two companies for Rupees 25 crores for total 25 movies including both old and new movies from UTV. Even in some dailies it was reported that Moserbaer Entertainment has gained 2100 crores net profit* in its entertainment business this year.However it should be that this are all unconfirmed and unofficial news.

Along that UTV has also confirmed that both the companies are looking forward to sign a separate deal by early next year for its World Movie titles that UTV has recently acquired and also for its 30 Hollywood Titles of Miramax Studio like Sin City ,Hamlet Pulp Fiction,etc., whose rights are also with UTV at the moment. Right now Moserbaer is already selling some World Movie titles that it has acquired from Palador Pictures in its premium segment where the titles are priced for Rs 399/- per DVD.

The 10 movies which are now acquired by Moserbaer from UTV Home Video are: Aamir, Race, Dhan Dhana Dhan Goal, Life In A Metro, Hattrick, Blue Umbrella, Khosla Ka Ghosla, Chup Chup Ke, The Namesake (Unconfirmed till now), Main Meri Patni aur Woh and Swades.

The 6 recently released movies which will be now released by Moserbaer in Home Video market are: Kismat Konnection, Mumbai Meri Jaan, A Wednesday, Welcome to Sajjanpur, Fashion and last month release Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye!. The home video of this movies will be released in the market by Moserbaer within Janaury end.The some of the underproduction movies of UTV whose rights are also been acquired by Moserbaer are: Dilli 6, Dev D, Kaminay, Main Aur Mrs Khanna, Yahoo, Kisaan, Johnny Mastana, Arjun,What's Your Rashee? and etc.

After this acquisation there is no doubt that Moserbaer has again increased its content and along that it will made a strong presence in the market by entering into the premium segment.As i already mentioned in my earlier posts that now Moserbaer has increased its DVD prices and now you will have to pay Rs 99/- for this upcoming movies instead of Rs 50/- which was the earlier price.And even there are reports that Golmaal Returns and all new upcoming movies on Moserbaer now onwards will be released in this new price point only.

Now only thing we have to see that whether Moserbaer will be able to main the quantity of sell it was achieving at Rs 50/- price point for DVDs at this new price points and whether it will add special features DVD in premium packs or not. However in its first offering " A Wednesday", its giving a free DVD of movie Shaurya but i worry whether this trick will work to attract the customers since everyone must have a copy of Shaurya due to the following two reasons:
1. Finest and one of the best & critically acclaimed film of this year.
2. Its DVDs are till now available on Moserbaer only at Rs 50/- price tag.

*(Note: Net Profit news was not announced officially from company)

Compiled By: Saurav Chakraborty

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Out on DVD: Kidnap

2008-12-16T12:43:00.006+05:30

Movie: KIDNAP
Released Date: 02.October.2008
Genre: Action, Thriller
Presenter: Indian Films
Banner: Shree Asthavinayak Cine Vision
Director: Sanjay Gadhvi
Music: Pritam
Music On: Sony BMG
Star Cast: Sanjay Dutt, Imraan Khan, Minissha Lamba, Vidya Malvade, Raj Zutsi and Rahul Dev.
Home Video Label: Moserbaer Entertainment
Online Shopping: www.moserbaerhomevideo.com
Packaging:
The movie comes in a standard DVD plastic case with single DVD of the film and no special features are available.
Technical Details:
2 Channel Stereo & 5.1 Dolby Digital Sound
16:9 Anamorphic Widescreen
Subtitle: English
Price: Rs 50/-

Synopsis:

When Dr. Mallika asks her daughter Sonia what she wants for her 18th birthday, Sonia tells her she wants her Dad. Mallika divorced Vikrant Raina when Sonia was just 10. The bitter custody battle was settled in Mallika's favor and Sonia has not met her father for eight long years.

Rebellious Sonia is hell-bent on meeting her dad, but Mallika does not want her to have anything to do with him. After a spat between mother and daughter, Sonia walks off in a huff and doesn't return.

Mallika panics when she gets a call from a stranger that he has kidnapped Sonia. The kidnapper, Kabir, has only one demand - that he will negotiate with nobody but Sonia's father - Vikrant Raina.

Reluctantly Mallika brings Vikrant back into their lives to save Sonia. But Vikrant Raina, one of the richest Indians in the world, with a net worth of 51.7 billion dollars, chokes at the thought of taking orders from a criminal.

But Kabir holds the trump card - he holds Sonia and Vikrant knows he has no option but to toe the line.

It's very simple, Kabir tells him. They are going to play a game - just the two of them. Vikrant has to play by the rules set by Kabir and he has to play alone. He has to play to save his daughter. If he even utters the words 'Hello Police', it will be Bye Bye for Sonia!

Because his daughter's life is at stake, a reluctant Vikrant agrees to obey Kabir's orders. Kabir sets him a series of daunting, time bound tasks. As Vikrant completes each task, he receives a clue that will bring him a step closer to finding Sonia.

And so begins a thrilling, cat and mouse game where Vikrant Raina chases elusive clues through impossible terrain, even as a hawk eyed Kabir keeps a watch on every step he takes. The slightest error or delay on his part and Vikrant will never see his daughter again. But why do all the tasks involve Vikrant having to commit crimes in rising intensity?

Although circumstances have forced Vikrant to take orders from this hateful stranger, he's also a master strategist of many board room battles and a man to be pushed around. Thus he succeeds in outwitting Kabir on more than one occasion.

But then a counter-offensive Kabir puts Sonia's life in jeopardy and Vikrant vows that he will stop at nothing to save his daughter... his only child.

But will he stop at committing murder?

Sanjay Gadhvi, the master director of mega, blockbusters like Dhoom and Dhoom: 2, brings you Kidnap - a high-octane, edge-of-the-seat thriller about the power tussle between a father hell bent on rescuing his daughter and a young man thirsting for revenge!

My Conclusion:

The idea was new but i felt that execution was not so good and there are too many flaws in the script. Along that if some one has seen Sanjay Dutt starrer "Zinda" which came few years back then you will also find the script an outdated one. Since here also the story revolves around a person( Imraan Khan) who wants to take revenge from a person( Sanjay Dutt) who has changed his whole life from childhood, for a misunderstanding.When we talk about acting then its only Imraan Khan show you can say and even Sanjay Dutt will disappoint you with his acting because in many scenes you will find Sanjay Dutt looking tooo dull.And even like Sanjay Gadhvi's Dhoom series here you wont find any action scenes that leave you with some impact. And if i can recollect the movie has one train chase action scene and a building climb up scenes that seems too be ok ok action actions.So its not a Dhoom but its just one time watchable flick.Except the song "Mit Jaye" others doesnt leave nay impact on you too.So bad in terms of music score also.

Overall, i didnt like it so much and i was very dissapointed as i was expecting much more from this movie.

My RATING: 2.5/5

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Moserbaer releases "A Wednesday" on Home video

2008-12-15T22:14:00.008+05:30

In my last post only i have written that in some websites, pre-orders of UTV movies are being taken but i was not sure whether it was acquired by Moserbaer or it was just a mistake by the internet shopping websites. But now after my research its confirmed that atleast Moserbaer has acquired the rights of latest UTV movies which includes the rights of "Kismat Konnection", "A Wednesday", "Fashion", "Mumbai Meri Jaan" and " Welcome to Sajjanpur".But this time Moserbaer has increased the price of its DVDs and now the DVDs of this films will cost you Rs 99/- for each movies.

Out of this five movies, " A Wednesday" is already out in the market and its is out at a price point of Rs 40/- for VCDs and Rs 99/- for its DVD.The DVD of this movie also contains the DVD of the movie "Shaurya" as a free gift inside the pack.A Wednesday was a very short film of around 2 hours and it was also made at a very low budget. The movie was critically acclaimed and its star cast includes Nasseruddin Shah, Anupam Kher, Jimmy Shergill and others.

"A WEDNESDAY" tells the story of certain events that unfold between 2 and 6 pm on a particular Wednesday – events which do not exist in any record but which deeply effects the lives of those involved.

Prakash Rathod, Commissioner of Police, Mumbai (played by Mr Anupam Kher) gets a call demanding the release of four militants in lieu of information on bombs that the man has planted in various parts of the city. At first, Prakash suspects it to be a crank call but his doubts are dispelled once he actually finds a bomb planted in the police station right opposite his Police Headquarters.

Now Prakash Rathod is in a real dilemma. Should he release the militants? Militants who have been caught at the cost of lives of police officers in the first place? Militants who are responsible for unaccountable damage to civilian lives and property? Militants who will cause further damage in the coming years, if let go scott free? Or should he just think of all the innocent people who will die today if he decides not to let them go?

Prakash Rathod is not a man who would give up so easily. He gets a team of his best men together and taps all his resources – he was going to leave no stone unturned in his mission to track down the man. He even hires a 17 year old hacker to help his team trace the calls and hence the location of this man.

Meanwhile, he comes across Naina Roy, a wannabe-something news channel reporter (played by Ms Deepal Shaw) who also has been tipped off by an anonymous caller. Time passes without any concrete results on the identity of the caller. As a backup plan, he puts two of his best men, Arif and Jai (played by Jimmy Sheirgill and Amir Bashir respectively) to hand over the four militants. It is then that events take a bizarre turn.

Suddenly, everything becomes a huge question mark. Who is this man? What is his identity? What are his intentions and what is the motive behind them? The caller (played by Mr Naseeruddin Shah) then reveals his true identity and answers these questions, raising some more in the process...Last releases from Moserbaer was Pahlaj Nihalani's " KHUSHBOO" and Sanjay Gadhvi's " KIDNAP" starring Imraan Khan and Sanjay Dutt.Very Sooner Moserbaer is also going to release the DVDs of Golmaal Returns, Fashion, Kismat Konnection, Welcome to Sajjanpur, Mumbai Meri Jaan and that too in its new price point of Rs 99/- per DVD.May be this DVDs also contain a free movie DVD like "A Wednesday" which is coming with the disc of movie "Shaurya" as a free gift.

Now we have to see whether it can keep its market share and can give fight to pirates as it was doing well till now since the advantage Moserbaer had over other players was its low price strategy but now it seems like Moserbaer is also following others and has increased the prices of its new products. Even it will get clear in coming few days whether Moserbaer also releases them in a price point of Rs 50/- and keep the higher price point for premium segment, but that we can only hope at this stage of time.

Along that another question is whether we will get premium quality product in this price point in terms of packaging and contents like addition of deleted scenes, making of the film, extra songs and posters or the same DVD cases which we were getting at price point of Rs 50/- per film DVD.

So keep watching this space for latest happenings in Indian Home Video Market....

Did Moserbaer acquired UTV home video library?

2008-12-14T00:06:00.005+05:30

However am not sure till now but it was shocking when i saw some headlines on internet and along that some online shopping websites like "indiatimes.com" where they are taking pre-orders for Home Video of UTV movies like Kismat Konnection, Fashion, Mumbai Meri Jaan, Welcome to Sajjanpur and as on along that Golmaal Returns also (which rights are already acquired by Moserbaer and its officially announced also) under the banner name Moserbaer and at that same price point of Rs 40/- for VCDs and Rs 50/- for DVDs.

After that i searched whole net but yet i didnt find any official reports from any out of this companies regarding any such deal.So i hope within coming few days there would be some official reports and then i will write on this in detail.

But its also true and official according to a website "businessofcinema.com" that UTV was already in talk with various home video players for a complete sell out of its home video division - UTV Home Video. And the price that the company was seeking for its Hindi and English library is in the range of Rs 100 - 120 million (Rs 10 -12 crores).

And according to that website, the dealing was for UTV's home video catalogue which consist of more than 40 movies including the company's home productions like Race, Aamir,Swades, Khosla Ka Ghosla, Life... In A Metro, Dhan Dhana Dhan Goal etc and also Miramax movies like Pulp Fiction, Sin City, Hamlet etc. Also under negotiation is the future slate of 17 UTV Motion Pictures films from Kismat Konnection onwards, which released in July.

So its true that UTV was looking forward for selling its home video division and they will also give the rights of 14 movies from Kismat Konnection onwards to that company which will acquire its home video division.

But the question which is unsolved till now is that whether the complete acquisation of UTV home video division is done by Moserbaer or just Moserbaer acquired "Fashion", "Kismat Konnection", "Mumbai Meri Jaan" and other new outcomes from UTV or its just following the same pattern of marketing the UTV products on a sharing basis like it did for Sony BMG in past by selling there 14 movies which includes " Jannat" also. Even Moserbaer has tied up with Palador pictures in that pattern for selling of its world movies and currently Moserbaer is offering 50 World Movie title in the market from Palador's World Movie Library in premium segment at Rs 399/- for DVDs.

OR in this case itS just a mistake from online shopping websites.....

So there are many questions and sooner i will give details on this after i get some official knowledge regarding this outcome.

FIRST LOOK & SYNOPSIS: Chandni Chowk to China

2008-11-22T19:35:00.004+05:30

Movie: CHANDNI CHOWK TO CHINA
Release Date: 16. January. 2009
Genre: Action & Comedy
Banner: Warner Brothers, RS Entertainment & Orion Pictures
Director: Nikhil Advani
Music: Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy
Lyrics: N.A.
Music On: T-Series
Star Cast: Akshay Kumar, Deepika Padukone, Ranvir Shorey, Mithun Chakraborty & Gordon Liu
Official Website:www.cc2c-thefilm.com
Synopsis:

Chandni Chowk To China, the first ever Bollywood Kungfu comedy takes you on a madcap Journey from the by-lanes of Chandni Chowk in Delhi, to Shanghai, the Great Wall and rural China, marrying in its wake hilarious gags, breathtaking action, spectacular locations, and heart stirring emotions.

Our protagonist Sidhu (Akshay Kumar) is the lowest on the totem pole, cutting vegetables at a roadside food stall in Chandni Chowk in Delhi. He longs to escape his dreary existence and looks for shortcuts- with astrologers, tarot readers and fake fakirs - believing anything except himself, despite his father figure Dada's (Mithun Chakraborty) best efforts. His redeeming moment arrives when two strangers from China claim him as a reincarnation of a war hero in the past and takes him to China. Sidhu now dreams of wine, women, and a princely existence in foreign lands. Thanks to the devious translator, a conman by the name Chopstick (Ranvir Shorey), little does he know that he is being taken to the Promised Land to rid the Chinese village of the vicious smuggler Hojo (Gordon Liu)!

Therefore, Sidhu blissfully sets forth to China with Chopstick who instigates dreams of a delicious future and forgets to reveal the perils, which await him. Along the way, he meets Sakhi (Deepika Padukone), Ms. Tele Shoppers Media (Ms. TSM) who has embarked on a journey to pay homage to the land of her birth and her dead father and twin. Initially, Sidhu through a series of lucky coincidences manages to sidestep being beaten by Hojo's men but finally Hojo catches up with him and exposes him as the country buffoon that he really is. Sidhu has the fire of revenge in his belly and finds the one man who will make him a Kungfu expert and set the village free. Armed with his Sifu (master), faith in himself and the love of the fair Sakhi, Sidhu sets forth to conquer all!

First Look (Poster):Theatrical Trailer: