UTV signs three-film deal with Priyanka

UTV signs three-film deal with Priyanka Chopra

June 1, 2007 - 07:26 IST

Recently there were a lot of speculations in the media on Priyanka Chopra signing a three film deal with UTV. When we checked with Siddharth Roy Kapoor of UTV a couple of days back, he replied saying, "We don't have any conformation to make right now. I would neither confirm nor deny this. When we have something to announce we will do it at that time."

But it's official now! UTV has signed Priyanka Chopra for a three film non-exclusive deal that will span over 4 years. A key aspect of the partnership will be her active involvement in the creative areas of the films.

This landmark deal is a one-of-its-kind for a leading lady in Bollywood and marks a significant move by UTV to drive the corporatisation of the movie business. The association with UTV cements Priyanka's leadership position in the film industry today. As per the details of the 3-film association, Priyanka will be involved in the creative brainstorming process of the films including the shortlisting of scripts and genres.

Announcing the deal, Mr. Ram Mirchandani, Senior VP-Creative and Projects, UTV Motion Pictures said, "We are very proud to be associated with Priyanka. She is undoubtedly the reigning star on celluloid today. Her achievements, in a relatively short span of time, are remarkable. Priyanka is today recognized as one of the most 'bankable' stars that we have. Her ability to straddle a variety of roles is reflective of her immense talent. We are very excited about this partnership and look forward to our long-term relationship with Priyanka."

Priyanka Chopra is equally excited and says, "The basis of our relationship is that of mutual respect and creativity. This association presents an amazing opportunity for me to work in a challenging, creative environment with some of the best minds in the industry. I am looking forward to creating celluloid magic together!"

The non exclusivity of the deal implies that Priyanka can also sign films outside the UTV banner but has to do at least 3 films with UTV in a span of 4 years.

The Priyanka-UTV deal further strengthens UTV's credence for pioneering the Studio Model in India. Its strategic relationships with international studios like 20th Century Fox, Walt Disney and along with Will Smith's Overbrook have already positioned UTV as the leading South-Asian Company in the international movie arena. Its slate of over 12 movies includes Hindi, Tamil, Telugu and International co-productions, making it the largest movie studio in South Asia.