Netflix reveals viewership stats: 13 percent of US viewership comes from non-English titles, 80 percent of members engage with K-content

At its first International Showcase on Monday, Netflix confirmed its commitment to offer content with global appeal in state languages. The event was led by Netflix Chief Content Officer Bela Bajaria and featured creators from regions including Asia Pacific (APAC), Latin America (LAC), Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) and India, where new titles were announced. It also highlighted trends and gave insights into the platform's growing audience. 

At its first International Showcase on Monday, Netflix confirmed its commitment to offer content with global appeal in state languages. Under the direction of the Netflix chief, creative heads from regions such as Asia Pacific (APAC), Latin America (LAC), Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) and India, which announced new titles, participated in the event. . It provides insights into the platform's growing audience trends. 

Netflix Releases Viewership Statistics: 13% of US Viewers Watch Non-English Titles, 80% of Members Engage in K-Content 

Netflix Releases Viewership Statistics: 13% of US Viewers Watch Non-English Titles, 80% of Members Engage in K-Content 

Further afield 

Spreading local stories 

Netflix heads highlighted the platform's deepening partnerships with more than 1,000 producers across 50 countries. The company showcased exclusive film material from upcoming non-English titles, including "One Hundred Years of Solitude" (Colombia), "The Leopard" (Italy), "The Last Samurai Standing" (Japan), "Empress Season 2" (Germany), "Alice in Borderland Staffel 3" (Japan) and Senna (Brazil). Designed with local authenticity in mind, these stories are primarily intended to attract domestic audiences, a priority Bajaria highlighted during the event. 

"There is no such thing as a global show," she said. "If you try to do something that everyone likes, you end up doing something that nobody likes." 

Global demand for non-English titles 

Bajaria highlighted the growing demand for international content, announcing that 70 percent of all Netflix shows now include subtitles or syncing, reflecting the platform's ability to combine different stories with a global audience. Korean content should be highlighted. According to Minyoung Kim, vice president of APAC content, more than 80 percent of Netflix subscribers worldwide consume Korean content. In the United States, a market traditionally dominated by local productions, non-English content accounted for 13% of screen time last year, followed by Korean, Spanish and Japanese titles. Bajaria noted that Netflix's strong recommendation system and excellent synchronization and subtitle options contribute greatly to the popularity of these shows. 

 Authenticity leads to success 

Regional content leaders reported how upcoming projects reflect the culture of the region. Tiny Andreasta, VP of Content Italy, spoke about the ambitious production of "The Leopard," capturing a defining moment in Italian history. Similarly, Diego Avalos, VP of Content Spain, highlighted the platform's efforts to produce stories from every region of Spain, comparing this to the production of content in all 50 states in the United States. "People love the authenticity of local stories," Bajaria said, emphasizing that prioritizing creators' vision is a central part of Netflix's strategy. 

What's next for Netflix? Netflix continues to grow its reputation as a platform that offers a wide range of stories with titles across continents and genres. As audiences around the world increasingly embrace non-English content, Netflix continues to be at the forefront of making local stories more accessible and effective around the world.

Anees Bazmee REACTS to reports of fallout with Shahid Kapoor due to creative differences: “It’s very tough for me to change my ways after…”

Filmmaker Anees Bazmee has finally spoken out about the rift reports that have surfaced after her untitled comedy project with actor Shahid Kapoor was reportedly shelved due to creative differences. Bazmee has now broken her silence on the matter and opened up about their relationship and the possibility of reviving the project. 

Anees Bazmee to work with Shahid Kapoor again 

Bazmee revealed that the untitled film is still close to her heart and she has not ruled out working with Kapoor again. "The film is still very close to my mind and I am sure that working with Shahid will be a lot of fun." He's so good! Why shouldn't I work with him again? "I never made it," Bazmee said in a chat with News18. 

There needs to be an agreement between two people when making a film. Ideally, you need to be honest with each other about your expectations. This is the only way to avoid any kind of confusion. "I have a certain way of working that I'm comfortable with and it's very difficult to change your way of working after so many years," he explained. 

Creative differences and agreements 

Reflecting on his past differences with Kapoor, Bazmee said, "Shahid also has his own way of working and thinking. There are times when the two thought processes don't match and that's absolutely fine. It's okay if we don't cooperate in such situations. If our sensibilities align, I'm sure we'll work together again." 

Despite the creative differences, Bazmee maintained that her personal chemistry with Kapoor remains intact. "This has not affected our relationship in any way. Every time he meets me, he speaks to me with a lot of love and respect. I have the same love in my heart for him. But one thing I can say is that if we ever get together again, we will definitely make a great film." 

The film, which was initially scheduled to star Kapoor alongside Rashmika Mandanna, was scheduled to begin production in August 2023. However, Kapoor's departure sparked speculation that there might be tension between the two.

Two Titans, One Diwali – SINGHAM AGAIN & BHOOL BHULAIYAA 3 bring cheer with Rs. 500 cr+, yet miss solo potential

Diwali 2024 will bring joy and invigorate the mood of the industry, but... 

Thinking about the two big releases this Diwali -- SINGHAM AGAIN and BHOOL BHULAIYAA 3 -- brings mixed feelings. Let's start with the positive. 

The *joint deal* for SINGHAM AGAIN and BHOOL BHULAIYAA 3 has not only made the cash registers ring but also rekindled confidence in the industry. At a time when the Hindi film industry is grappling with numerous challenges, including a string of box office failures and declining cinema attendance, the *combined deal* worth over €500 million comes as a much-needed boost. SINGHAM AGAIN and BHOOL BHULAIYAA 3, two films of different genres but united by their franchise appeal, have unleashed a wave of joy, confidence and optimism, significantly boosting morale in the industry. 

Most importantly, the “business as usual” of Diwali releases reaffirms audiences’ faith in the cinematic experience.  

In recent years, the Hindi film industry has struggled to bounce back from the pandemic setbacks, with many films failing to lure audiences back to theatres. 

SINGHAM AGAIN and BHOOL BHULAIYAA 3 have not only attracted large audiences but also demonstrated the power of cinematic entertainment.  

Their success sends a clear message that audiences will happily return to cinemas if films offer compelling content backed by franchise power, star power and strong marketing. Packed cinemas this Diwali prove that the magic of the silver screen never fades. 

The most important question here is, was the clash worth it? Negativity aside, what really matters is the box office. In this case, both the films have taken a big hit. Had they been released separately, their total gross could have gone up by 30-35%. Hopefully the industry will take notice and avoid any high-profile clashes in the future.

Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 Box Office Collection Day 17: Just 0.86 Crore Away From Beating Bollywood’s Most Profitable Film In Recent Years!

 Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 starring Kartik Aaryan has ended its third weekend on a high note, crossing the 250 Crore mark at the Indian box office.  

It's been a good third weekend for Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3. Despite a drastically reduced number of screenings, the film has managed to strike a chord with audiences and, even more commendably, has remained the top choice of moviegoers among all Bollywood films currently screening in cinemas. Yesterday, the Indian box office grossed over 60 crore, breaching the 250 crore mark. 

The sequel to Bhool Bhulaiyaa, released in a major clash with Singham, was once again well received by its targeted family audience. It was a much smaller film compared to Singham Again, so there was no baggage or pressure. Apart from that, he delivered what he promised - pure entertainment. Hence, despite mixed reviews, the momentum continued even after the Diwali craze had died down. 

In its third weekend, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 was a success, collecting 16.78 billion at the box office. On the third Friday, the Guru Nanak Jayanti festival boosted the sales and it collected 4.51 billion. There was a decent rise on Saturday, clocking in at Rs 5.65 billion. Yesterday, there was a steady rise too, bringing in Rs 6.62 billion. 

Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 Box Office Day 17: Just Rs 8.6 billion away from beating Bollywood's highest grossing film in recent years! 

Kartik Aaryan's Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 has ended its third weekend on a good note, crossing the Rs 250 crore mark at the Indian box office. 

It's been a good third weekend for Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3. Despite a drastically reduced screening count, the film has managed to strike a chord with audiences and, even more commendably, remains cinephiles' top choice among all Bollywood films currently screening in cinemas. Yesterday, the Indian box office crossed the 60 crore mark, breaching the 250 crore mark. 

The Bhool Bhulaiyaa triplet, released amidst a massive clash with Singham Again, was well received by its targeted family audience. As it was a much smaller film compared to Singham Again, there was no strain or pressure. Other than that, it delivered on what it promised, and that is pure entertainment. As a result, it continued to do well despite mixed reviews even after the Diwali hype subsided. In its third weekend, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 performed well, collecting Rs 16.78 crore. The third Friday saw a boom due to the Guru Nanak Jayanti festival, which saw an inflow of Rs 4.51 crore. Saturday saw a decent rise, recording Rs 5.65 crore. Yesterday also saw a decent rise, bringing in Rs 6.62 crore. 

Lucky Baskhar Worldwide Box Office (18 Days): Ends Third Weekend in the Black, Recovering 17% of Domestic Gross 

Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 recorded a drop of 64.96% this weekend, compared to its second weekend of Rs 4.79 crore. But the film has done its job and has already grossed 251.65 million rupees in 17 days at the Indian box office. It has already been a success and while it is no longer capable of entering the 300 million club, the film is on its way towards a solid gross of 275-285 million overall. 

Meanwhile, the Kartik Aaryan-starrer is just 0.86 billion away from surpassing the total collection of The Kashmir Files (252.5 million). For those who don't know, The Kashmir Files is the most profitable Bollywood film in recent years. Made on a budget of 20 million, it has grossed an unprecedented 1162.5% at the Indian box office. Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 India Earnings Breakdown: 

Week 1 – 168.86 crores 

Week 2 – 66.01 crores 

Day 15 – 4.51 crores 

Day 16 – 5.65 crores 

Day 17 – 6.62 crores 

Total – 251.65 crores

Rakesh Roshan reveals Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan stayed in 15×15 rooms during Karan Arjun shoot; recalls turning under-construction Aashram into hotel for cast

One of the most celebrated films in Indian cinema, Karan Arjun (1995), starring Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan, is gearing up for a grand re-release on November 22, 2024. The blockbuster directed by Rakesh Roshan will be the biggest global re-release of any Hindi film ever. In conversation with source, Rakesh Roshan reminisced about working with the two superstars during the shoot. 

"Simpler times on set": Roshan talks about working with Shah Rukh and Salman  

When asked about the difference between working with stars then and now, Rakesh Roshan fondly recalled the simpler times of filmmaking in the 1990s. "You wouldn't believe it," he said. "We shot the entire film in 80-90 days. When we went for outdoor shoot, Shah Rukh's room was 15x15 feet and Salman's was the same size. Kajol and co had a similar room. An ashram had been built nearby. There was no hotel in the village. I gave them the money and asked them to change it to a hotel. I said, "Make bathrooms in every room." They said the rooms would be small, so I said, "No problem." Just install air conditioners and bathrooms. Shah Rukh and Salman stayed there." 

"How to wake up a child": Stars' morning routines 

When asked about the difference between Shah Rukh and Salman's acting styles, Roshan pointed out how their personalities blended seamlessly with their roles. Shah Rukh behaved like Arjun and Salman behaved like Karan. In the morning, I personally woke her up. I used to go to their rooms at 6am and say, "Shah Rukh, wake up." It was like waking up kids. When Salman saw me, he put a pillow over my face and said, "I'm getting ready." I said, "No no, I wasn't leaving the room until they were completely done. Ready." 

Speaking of the re-release of Karan Arjun, Hrithik Roshan has narrated the trailer for the re-release and from the way he posted with passion about the release of the new trailer of Karan Arjun, you can tell he is super excited about this trailer.

Kantara: Chapter 1: Hombale Films drops MAJOR update about release date; fantasy drama to release during the occasion of Dussehra 2025

After creating a buzz at the box office with its first part, Kantara: Chapter 1 is expected to be a spin-off of this mystical drama that promises to take viewers to the folklore roots found in the 2022 drama. While the announcement of this second instalment created a lot of excitement among fans, Hombale Films announced the release date on November 17, further increasing the excitement. Kantara: Chapter 1 is scheduled to release on October 2, 2025. 

As for the release date, it coincides with the observance of Dussehra, which is not only a public holiday due to Gandhi Jayanti but also the tenth day of Navratri. 

The makers have released a teaser. 

Last year, along with the announcement of the film, a short clip of a few seconds was released by Hombale Films, where it gave us a glimpse of Rishab Shetty in a mystical forest and then took us to a different, bigger avatar of the actor. He is covered in blood and looks menacing with fire in his eyes. He sports a new look with long curly hair, a bare torso and Rudraksh (sacred beads) accessories on his neck and wrists, adding to the mystical element of the film. 

Kanthara receives a rich set 

While the previous film was known for its grand and authentic cinematic experience, we hear that this time the team has spared no effort to create an even better visual masterpiece. A little while ago, it was reported that the production team has recreated the historical Kadamba Empire in Kundapur to transport the audience to an era of valor, culture and mysticism. Featuring detailed architecture and authentic-looking environments, the lavish set is designed to transport the audience to a bygone era. 

Rishab Shetty goes through meticulous preparation 

Actor-director Rishab Shetty, who is at the helm of this ambitious project, is said to have left no stone unturned in his role. To portray the character faithfully, Rishabh underwent rigorous training in Kalaripayattu, one of the oldest martial arts of Kerala. It was Kantala that introduced the richness of Konkan folklore to the world. 

The release date is set for October 2, but the film will be released in Hindi and Bengali as well as Southern Chinese.

It’s official! Ajay Devgn to direct Akshay Kumar in his next film: “We are already working on it”

Ajay Devgn and Akshay Kumar, who worked together in memorable films like Suhaag, Karkee and Sooryavanshi, will team up again, this time with Ajay as director. The announcement was made during the Hindustan Times Leadership Summit 2024, where Ajay revealed plans for his next directorial project starring Akshay. 

Ajay Devgn confirms collaboration with Akshay Kumar 

About the project, Ajay said, "We are already working together, I am directing and he is acting in the film," but did not reveal the genre or details, adding, "It's too early to tell. We'll talk about it. Akshay, who is known for his quick wit, has offered to send the script of the film himself, with a lot of humor. " 

News about Akshay Kumar's Hera Pheri 3 

At the same event, Akshay Kumar answered questions about Hera Pheri 3. He humorously mentioned that the much-awaited sequel will begin once producer Firoz Nadiadwala completes Hera Pheri. On a serious note, Akshay confirmed that the film's production will begin next year. Akshay is currently busy shooting for Welcome to the Jungle, the latest installment in the Welcome series. 

Ajay Devgn, who recently delivered a memorable performance as Bajirao Singham in Singham Again, is balancing his roles as an actor and director. His upcoming projects include Raid 2, De De Pyaar De 2 and Son of Sardaar 2. Meanwhile, Akshay Kumar has a number of high-profile releases lined up, including Housefull 5, Jolly LLB 3, Sky Force and Bhooth Bangla.