In a groundbreaking move set to redefine cross-cultural cinematic collaborations, Bhanushali Studios Limited (BSL), Warner Bros. Pictures and JOAT Films have announced a strategic partnership to develop Indian adaptations of five legendary Warner Bros. Pictures titles. This exclusive multi-film deal aims to bring globally celebrated narratives into the heart of Indian cinema, infused with the country’s unique cultural flavour while preserving the universal emotional essence that made these stories beloved across generations.
This initiative underscores Warner Bros. Pictures’ commitment to deepening its footprint in key international territories through locally resonant storytelling and forms part of its broader strategy to engage with the ever-booming Indian film market.
“India represents one of the world’s most vibrant and sophisticated film markets, with audiences who deeply appreciate authentic, locally rooted narratives,” said Denzil Dias, Vice President and Managing Director – India, Warner Bros. Pictures. “This partnership allows us to combine our storytelling heritage with exceptional local talent to create films that will resonate profoundly with Indian audiences while maintaining the universal appeal that defines great cinema.”
This collaboration will see Warner Bros. Pictures spearheading global distribution efforts, reaffirming the studio’s international vision and the belief in the universal potential of stories told through an Indian lens.
“We’re incredibly excited to partner with Warner Bros. Pictures, a studio that has shaped cinematic history across generations,” said Vinod Bhanushali, Founder & Chairman, Bhanushali Studios Limited. “This collaboration represents a unique opportunity to reimagine the stories by Warner Bros. Pictures through an Indian creative lens, blending emotion, scale, and culture for audiences both at home and internationally.”
The creative bridge between East and West will be further strengthened through the involvement of Jack Nguyen, founder of JOAT Films. With over three decades of experience in the global film industry, including a long association with Warner Bros. Pictures and expertise in Asian market productions, Nguyen brings strategic insight and creative vision to the venture. JOAT Films will co-produce under Nguyen’s first-look deal with Warner Bros. Pictures.
“I’m excited to partner with BSL to adapt Warner Bros. Pictures titles that will resonate with Indian audiences,” said Jack Nguyen. “Warner Bros. Pictures has an unparalleled library from which we will carefully curate select titles for the vibrant Indian market.”
Bhanushali Studios Limited has swiftly emerged as a force in Indian entertainment. Under Vinod Bhanushali’s leadership, the studio has championed high-impact storytelling. Their critically acclaimed film ‘Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai’ swept five major awards at the 2023 Filmfare OTT Awards, including Best Web Original Film, establishing BSL as a producer of content that marries social relevance with commercial success.
Development on the first project under this collaboration is already underway. Official announcements regarding the title, creative teams, and production timelines are expected soon.
This landmark alliance not only marks a first-of-its-kind collaboration between a major Hollywood studio and a homegrown Indian studio powerhouse but also sets a new benchmark for global-local creative synergy. It positions Indian cinema as a key player on the international storytelling stage and offers Indian audiences a fresh, culturally nuanced take on some of Hollywood’s most iconic narratives.
