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PGM Entertainment to go Kollywood in Hollywood

Nithya Subramanian

Ratna Bhushan

NEW DELHI, April 30

TAMIL movie buffs in Silicon Valley have something more to do on their weekend like watching Kollywood movies.

US-based film production house, PGM Entertainment, is exploring the possibility of distributing Indian films in the US.

Speaking to Business Line, Mr Gurpreet Singh, Chairman, PGM Entertainment said, ``Some South Indian movie producers are in talks with us. There is a potential demand for regional films. If the exercise is financially viable, we see no reason for not maki ng regional film distribution in the US market a regular affair.''

However, these films would cater to niche audiences and would be confined to weekends. ``There are several small theatre complexes in the Indian dominated areas where good films find audiences. However, weather and distances could impact viewership,'' he added.

But PGM Entertainment's film distribution basket will not just be restricted to regional movies. Hindi films too, are very much in the contention. `Style', a commercial Hindi movie, currently under production under the N. Chandra banner, is also likely t o be distributed by PGM Entertainment in the North American region.

Analysts said that marketing and distribution of Hindi films in the international market is a tricky business. ``Most of the big names in Bollywood like Subhash Chandra or Yash Chopra already have their distribution in place. Therefore, any new player tr ying to enter this business would have to face stiff competition,'' said industry analysts.

PG Entertainment LLC's library of movie flicks comprises some 220 movie titles. The distribution company is also involved in the distribution and production of television programming through one of its divisions, headquartered in Los Angeles.

PGM Entertainment is equally, if not more, ambitious about its potential in the domestic market. The company recently kick-started its Indian operations on an initial investment of Rs 25 crore, with another Rs 10 crore planned by December.

Also in the offing are forays into feature film and documentary production, according to Mr Singh.