Fox Star Studios, a joint venture between 20th Century Fox and Star, has bagged the global rights for the upcoming Shahrukh Khan starer My name is Khan for an estimated Rs 100 crore. This is said to be the biggest deal ever for the Hindi film industry outstripping Aamir Khan starer Ghajini at Rs 90 crore, and Rs 70 crore for Om Shanti Om. The film is being co-produced by director Karan Johar and Shahrukh Khan with a budget of Rs 55 crore.
Addressing reporters, Johar said, “We are not going to discuss the commercial terms of the My Name Is Khan deal. The financial terms of this deal is an internal matter between Red Chillies, Dharma Productions and Fox. This is the first time such a deal has been inked, where the film will release beyond the mainstream diaspora and that is exciting.” The film’s story line is based on the 9/11 terror attack and its impact on an Indian Muslims living in the US.
Vinod Mirani, film analyst, said: “The deal between the two parties is definitely a good sign the film industry. While the budget of the movie is Rs 55 crore, the success of the movie will purely depend on the content. A lot will also depend on the various promotion activities carried out.” However, according to reports, several unique marketing strategies are being planned for the film.
Fox Star will market and distribute the film in India, while the sister company, Fox Searchlight Pictures, which marketed and distributed the Oscar winning ‘Slumdog Millionaire’, will release the film in United States. However, the 20th Century Fox International will distribute the film outside India.
Timmy Kandhari, leader, entertainment and media practice, PwC, said, “The deal between Fox and My name is Khan is a positive sign for the Indian film industry. The film will surely prove to be beneficial as an outside entity (Fox Star Studios) is investing a huge amount in it. Therefore, the film has better chances of success with its marketing campaign.” Maneesh Mathur, COO, P9 Integrated, a film marketing company, told FE: ?…It is expected that10%-12% of the production budget of My Name is Khan will be done on marketing as compared to the usual 5%-8%.?
