Thaindian News

New Delhi, May 19 (IANS) Movie production majors UTV Motion Pictures and the Walt Disney Company in India Thursday announced a creative alliance to co-produce a slate of films for family audiences.

While Disney and UTV will share creative responsibilities for these films, UTV will manage the production, marketing and distribution aspects.

“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,” Mahesh Samat, managing director, The Walt Disney Company India Pvt. Ltd, said in a press statement.

Ronnie Screwvala, CEO, UTV Motion Pictures looks forward to offer a variety of movies under the new partnership.

“I believe this is a strategic initiative that further strengthens our relationship with Disney. The combined offering of UTV and Disney content will offer Indian viewers a tremendously diverse range of movies across languages and genres,” said Screwvala.

In 2006, the Walt Disney Company acquired children’s channel Hungama TV, and took an equity interest in media company UTV Software Communications Limited. In 2008, the Walt Disney Company increased its in equity, allowing both companies to maximise each other’s expertise and reach globally, and in India.

“To broaden our relationship into movie production is a natural extension that we are very excited about. Today’s announcement combines UTV’s unparalleled commercial and artistic success with the best traditions of Disney storytelling and global franchise creation,” added Samat.