Subhash Ghai signs Anurag Basu

By Bollywood Hungama -

August 9, 2006 - 12:00 AM IST

Network 18, launches Studio 18, a full spectrum division that will mark the groups entry in the motion picture business. The business spectrum of the company will involve acquisition, production, syndication and distribution of full-length feature films. Based in Mumbai, Studio 18 will have distribution offices in London and New York.

Studio 18 will be a new age motion picture company that believes in the growth potential of the Indian motion picture business. One of the key strengths of the company is its highly experienced team led by Sandeep Bhargava. He comes to Studio 18 after his highly successful stint at Sahara-One Motion Pictures, where he was responsible for some exemplary box office successes and for building the company as a formidable player in the entertainment business.

Priti Shahani, regarded as one of the best marketing professionals in the entertainment business, will continue to lead the Marketing Division. Additionally, she will also be heading the Syndication & Distribution business for the company.

Ashoka Holla, one of the very few people with an in-depth understanding of the international business potential of Indian films, will head International Distribution and Acquisitions for the company. He has been responsible for successfully acquiring and distributing films in several overseas territories at UTV. He will also be responsible for launching and driving the Home Video label for Studio 18.

Chitra Subramanian, who has been instrumental in developing and producing several movies like Hanuman, Malamaal Weekly, and Corporate, will head the Production Division. She has in the past worked closely with filmmakers like Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Priyadarshan, Nagesh Kukunoor, and Madhur Bhandarkar.

Deepti Chawla will head the creative function. She comes with a background in advertising and film-making and can be credited for effective packaging of films like Hanuman, Malamaal Weekly & Corporate.

Sibashish Sarkar has been appointed as CFO. Shibasish has spent 13 years across various FMCG and other industries, working with organizations like Godrej Sara Lee, Shaw Wallace & Hindustan Cables. The last 3 years have seen him in Entertainment companies like UTV & Percept Picture Company where he has played a strategic role in financial restructuring & been instrumental in setting systems and processes for the business.

Vandana Malik and Sanjay Ray Chadhuri, both Founding Shareholder-Directors of The TV18 Group, will act as creative advisors for Studio 18.

Studio 18 has entered into a co production deal with Shree Ashtavinayak Films for four films in next two years. The deal will mark an investment of 100 crores. The filmmakers that have been signed in this deal are Priyadarshan (Hera Pheri, Malamaal Weekly, Bhagam Bhaag) Abbas Mastan (Aitraaz, Ajnabee) , Rohit Shetty (Golmaal) and Neeraj Vora ( Phir Hera Pheri).

About Studio 18

Studio 18 business spectrum involves acquisition, production, syndication and distribution of full-length feature films. Based in Mumbai, Studio 18 will also have distribution offices in London and New York.