Huge interest in Rajinikanth film.
By Sreekanth A. Nair
Expectations are mounting as superstar Rajinikanth’s upcoming movie Kabali is nearing its release date. The much-hyped film has already broken the YouTube record with more than 20 million views.
According to film trade analyst Sreedhar Pillai, Kabali has already amassed Rupees 200 crore through the satellite rights and distribution rights, reported India Today.
The film, slated to release on July 1, has got record business from its satellite and dubbing rights. According to reports, Karnataka theatrical rights and the Telugu dubbing rights of Kabali were sold for a record price. Major Bollywood players are also trying hard to get the theatrical rights of the movie.
The France distribution rights of Kabali have also been sold for more than double amount that a superstar movie usually collects in the entire European market. A Hong Kong-based company is likely to get the Chinese dubbing rights for a huge amount.
Kabali is likely to have competition from Hollywood movies to enter China as the country has put some restrictions on the number of foreign language films to be released there.
“A lot of national brands have shown interest in being associated with Kabali. We are trying to work out a deal which will be mutually beneficial. But it won’t be easy, as Rajinikanth has normally shied away from endorsing any brands and will not be available for joint promotional activities. There may be some announcements once the producer announces a release date,” a Chennai-based client manager was quoted as saying by The Hindu.
Releasing simultaneously in 5,000 screens across the world, Kabali will have Tamil, Telugu, Hindi and Malayalam versions.
Directed by Pa Ranjith, “Kabali” is the story of the rise of a gangster from rags-to-riches. Also starring Radhika Apte, Dinesh, Kalaiarasan, Dhansikaa and Ritwika, the film is produced by Kalaipuli S. Thanu.
Think Music India has bought the audio rights of Kabali. The audio release will be held onJune 11 in Chennai.