STAR gets tough; acquires big film blockbusters

Not satisfied with its current line-up of top shows, STAR Plus is fighting back in a big way with the acquisition of some of this year’s huge movie hits.

STAR Plus has bought the Vashu Bhagnani film library, which includes movies such as Silsilay, Shaadi No 1, Coolie No 1, Hero No 1, Om Jai Jagadish. Furthermore, the channel will also be screening the movies Vaada, Kya Kool Hain Hum and Popcorn Khao Mast Ho Jao.

This news follows our exclusive revelation earlier this year that STAR had bagged rights to Black and Elaan. Elaan was screened last month and Black is being lined-up as STAR Plus’ birthday treat to Amitabh Bachchan. The legend turns 63 in October.

Also a part of the huge deal, the channel will be showing two Shah Rukh Khan hits; the first patriotic drama Swades and the other spiritual romantic comedy Paheli. There’s also this year’s sentimental family drama Viruddh on the way.

STAR Network’s announcement of its new film schedule coincides with its India based STAR Gold channel, which is undergoing a radical makeover to compete with India’s number one movie channel ZEE Cinema and rival SET Max. STAR UK denied reports that its STAR Gold channel will be arriving in the UK. A launch however has not been ruled out.

Looks like the fight for the movie audiences has only just intensified with new channel SET Max readying its official launch in the UK with their line-up of biggies. B4U Movies has also hired ex-ZEE man Kevin Rego, who will no doubt be buying more movies to freshen the channel’s current mundane look. ZEE Cinema on the other hand is not one to remain quiet and is soon to make an announcement on its huge movie blockbusters. Whatever happens, the viewer can enjoy months of satellite TV premieres in the comfort of their own home. We will keep you posted.