Latest news with #RajBShetty
Time of India
7 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Will Karnataka's INR 200 cap on tickets redefine cinema viewing?
Even as the film industry debates the potential impact of the 'partly executed' INR 200 ceiling on movie ticket prices in Karnataka — from concerns over revenue and theatre viability to hopes of increased accessibility and support for Kannada cinema — the bigger question remains: Will the government implement it? The order, issued on July 15 and published in the Official Gazette, had a 15-day window for public objections and suggestions. That window closed on July 29, yet there has been no official update or notification as of press time, leaving the industry and audience in suspense. Uniform ₹200 pricing isn't feasible for us: Multiplex 'For a multiplex chain, implementing a flat ₹200 price across all seats isn't practical,' says Jayanth Gowda, a senior floor in-charge at a cinema chain. 'We've applied it only to standard seats. Premium and recliner sections still follow a different pricing model.' He notes that the financial implications are substantial. 'Reducing all tickets to ₹200 affects revenue, staffing, and the share that goes to filmmakers. It could impact salaries and long-term production planning,' he shares. Tickets will now be affordable to all: Raj B Shetty Actor-director Raj B Shetty sees the cap as a positive step. 'People can now afford theatres. If a regular Bengalurean can take their family to a multiplex without worrying about cost, that's a win.' He also believes the cap gives smaller films more visibility. 'Earlier, big-budget films monopolised prime slots. Now, mid and small-budget films are getting a fair chance, too," he says. Tickets could be priced higher at least for the first 10 days post release: Film industry insider A source from the Kannada Film Industry warns that high-budget films face the biggest challenge. 'This cap is a blessing for mid and small-budget films. But large productions rely heavily on opening weekend collections to recoup costs. Without flexible pricing, recovery becomes difficult.' There are several major releases lined up, like Kantara: Chapter 1, KD: The Devil, and Toxic, which can have a positive impact on the economy of the industry. The source suggests Karnataka adopt a model like Telangana's, where ticket prices are higher for the first 10 days post release and later return to standard rates. 'That model supports early recovery without penalising longterm viewership,' the source adds. Price cap won't affect tier 2 and 3 cities: Source Despite assumptions that rural audiences would benefit most, industry sources say otherwise. 'In smaller towns, tickets were already priced between ₹200–₹250. The cap doesn't make a big difference there,' says one insider. 'The real impact is in Bengaluru, where multiplex tickets were far more expensive,' the source adds. No surge in footfall just yet: Multiplexes While the rule is being implemented in phases, multiplexes are cautious. 'There hasn't been a dramatic increase in footfalls,' admits Jayanth. 'People still come for good films. That hasn't changed.' He adds that while affordability improves access, a blanket cap could lead to reduced maintenance standards, staff reductions, and a narrower selection of films.
News18
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- News18
Su From So X Reviews: Fans Rate It ‘10/10', Call The Horror-Comedy A ‘Gem'
Last Updated: Su From So, produced by Raj B Shetty, is set in a beautiful village of Dakshina Kannada and tells the story of a close-knit community. Su From So, a Kannada-language film written and directed by JP Thuminad, was released in the theatres on July 25. The makers kept things low-key during production, and just before its release, they dropped a song and its trailer. The film is a perfect blend of comedy and horror with the right dose of emotional intelligence. Those who have watched the entertainer have shared their reviews through social media. '#SuFromSo – An absolute laughter carnage. When was the last time the whole auditorium had laughed so hard watching a Kannada movie ? Su from So is the answer to many questions. My show was full, and that's a rare phenomenon in KFI, a film with no big names and relatively new faces having its first show to a full house on a working day. This film shouldn't be missed in theatres – A must watch! Thank you for this! @RajbShettyOMK #JPTumniad," said a user. #SuFromSo – An absolute laughter carnage. When was the last time the whole auditorium had laughed so hard watching a Kannada movie ? Su from So is the answer to many questions. My show was full and that's a rare phenomenon in KFI, a film with no big names and relatively new faces…— LIKITH (@Likith_Here) July 25, 2025 Another person commented, 'Su from 10/10 (premier show). Just watched Su From So at the premiere—an exceptional blend of comedy and horror with outstanding direction. As someone from Udupi/Mangalore, I found it incredibly relatable and distinct from other films in the genre. Highly recommended." 'Su from so" 10/10⭐️ (premier show)Just watched 'Su From So" at the premiere—an exceptional blend of comedy and horror with outstanding direction. As someone from Udupi/Mangalore, I found it incredibly relatable and distinct from other films in the genre. Highly recommended — @kknishanthn1 (@kknishanthn1) July 25, 2025 A moviegoer asked everyone to watch this comedy gold in theatres, saying, 'Su from So – Interval. Entertainment Entertainment Entertainmentttttttttttttt and it continues. Guys.. cancel all your plans, book your tickets and watch it. #SuFromSo #Blockbuster." Su from So – Entertainment Entertainmentttttttttttttt n it continues 🤩💥😂Nakku nakku sakaythu guru 😭😂🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣💥💥💥Guys.. cancel all your plans book ur tickets n watch it. 🤩💥💥 #SuFromSo #Blockbuster — Jeevan 𝕏 (@Appu_Jeevi) July 25, 2025 'Rooted, real and rib-tickling! #SuFromSo is a #Kannada gem you shouldn't miss. JP Thuminad's debut is a winner – full of natural humour, emotions, and coastal flavour. #SuFromSo is a refreshing movie, so don't miss it in theatres," another impressed viewer mentioned. Rooted, real, and rib-tickling! #SuFromSo is a #Kannada gem you shouldn't Thuminad's debut is a winner – full of natural humor, emotions, and coastal flavor #SuFromSo is a refreshing movie so don't miss in theaters🍿🎥 #SuFromSoReview — arundachhu-ᵈᵉᵛⁱˡ🔥 (@arundachhu_) July 25, 2025 Su From So: Cast And Plot Set in a beautiful Dakshina Kannada village, Su from So tells the story of a close-knit community in the village, who support one another through every thick and thin. The film follows Ashoka, a carefree young man who develops a crush on a girl but finds himself caught in a bizarre situation when rumours spread that he is possessed by a ghost. The film starts with the usual brain-rot comedy and then takes an emotional turn when the story of Bhanu, the daughter of the ghost Sulochana from Someshwara, unfolds. The film stars JP Thuminad as Ashoka and features Deepak Rai Panaje, Prakash Tuminad, Shaneel Gautham, Sandhya Arekere and others. Produced by Raj B Shetty's Lighter Buddha Films, Su from So will be released in Malayalam across Kerala by Dulquer Salmaan's Wayfarer Films on August 1. First Published: July 25, 2025, 17:05 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Su from So's fresh & rooted narrative will resonate with audiences, says Raj B Shetty
With Su from So set to hit screens today, July 25, Raj B Shetty, who, along with Shashidhar Shetty Baroda and Ravi Rai Kalasa, under the banner of Lighter Buddha Films – is backing the project, is confident that audiences will embrace this unique supernatural comedy-drama. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now 'This film was genuinely funny to us, the makers, and that's why we know audiences will enjoy it,' says Raj, and adds that the film, which captures the flavour of rural life in the scenic coastal region between Mangaluru and Udupi, will resonate with viewers through its blend of familiar village charm and the sudden chaos brought by the ghost Sulochana from Someshwar – Su from So. Marking the Kannada directorial debut of JP Thuminad, Raj emphasises that the film's strength lies in its fresh content and rooted storytelling. 'Today's audiences want something new, and this film delivers that. It doesn't look like a film done by a debutant in Kannada; it's engaging, fun, and still has substance,' he says. He explains that while the narrative is fictional, the personalities are deeply inspired by real-life observations. 'In this film, you'll find characters who are deeply relatable, who make mistakes and assumptions, brave individuals who are, in fact, the biggest cowards. We've all encountered such characters – and sometimes, we are those characters.'
Time of India
20-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
A film doesn't need a known face; content should be the only draw: Raj B Shetty
Raj B Shetty When the trailer for the upcoming Kannada movie Su from So , directed by JP Thuminad, dropped, a mysterious scene sparked speculation that Raj B Shetty might be acting in it. However, the actor-director, whose production house is making the film, confirmed that he isn't. This decision was quite intentional. 'The whole point was not to rely on my face to bring audiences,' he revealed in an interview with Bangalore Times . 'In the Kannada film industry, there's this dependency on star power to draw crowds. I don't think that's a healthy trend, not for any actor, especially not for a known one. I don't call myself a star, but people do recognise me. It's hardly an achievement for recognised faces to fill theatres. I believe that real success happens when new faces can bring people in; that's when we can truly experiment. So, for this film, I wanted to take a risk and let the content be the only draw for the audience,' he said. Excerpts: Our bar for content has been raised, filtered by countless excellent productions. This shift means our perception of what's good, bad, or merely acceptable is constantly evolving. Now we expect something new and fresh whenever we go to the theatre Raj B Shetty 'This film was genuinely funny to us, and that's why we know audiences will enjoy it' Su From So is a Kannada supernatural comedy-drama centred on a comedy of errors, Raj explains, and adds, 'It's about the wrong people in the wrong situation doing what they believe is right, even though we, the audience, know it's wrong. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Even Beautiful Women Have Their 'Oops' Moments Read More Undo We've all encountered such individuals, and unfortunately, we can relate because we often do the same, making assumptions and doing things we shouldn't. From a distance, that's what makes life a comedy. The film isn't about people trying to be brave; it's about realising they're the biggest cowards.' 'The experience [of making the film] was fun. I believe if a film is genuinely funny to us, the makers, it will be genuinely funny to the audience as well,' he says. 'It's truly wonderful to see people being proud of where they come from' Set in a village near Mangaluru, the film embodies a new wave of rooted stories coming from Kannada cinema. But Raj is quick to say that this isn't a trend; it's a fundamental shift in storytelling. 'More rooted films today signify an attitude shift. People are saying, 'No, this is who we are. These are our stories.' That's the attitude we're seeing. In the past, we often felt deeply insecure about our identities. But now, we're able to showcase who we are – our flaws and our strengths – and that's being embraced, not just across Karnataka, but nationwide. That's because, deep down, everyone is the same. People have their unique cultures, ideas, and customs, but fundamentally, we're all human beings,' he remarks. 'We need to nurture mid-budget films' Despite prevailing industry pessimism about the viability of mid-budget films, Raj shares that he is a staunch advocate for nurturing diverse stories and new talent. 'When I talk to people, most aren't as hopeful as I am. They say mid-budget films are dead, and only star-driven or big-budget movies will work. The idea is that people don't want to watch films in theatres anymore. But that mindset will only lead to generic, monotonous, and repetitive films in a few years. Then what? Where will you go? Because you haven't nurtured mid-budget films, there are no native alternatives, and no new talent is coming into cinema.' 'That's why I wanted to make a film with all new people. Yes, it's a challenge, but it's not a true win for the industry if we don't try.' He believes that for Kannada cinema to thrive, it must offer a variety of films, moving beyond a single type of content. 'Content is the only reason [audiences come to theatres],' he says. 'And there should be a variety of cinema coming from the industry. It shouldn't be stagnant; it shouldn't be only one kind of content. There should be commercial films like Devil or Toxic , which actually serve wider audiences. But there should also be films like Su From So , which will attract people who want films that engage, are fun, and still have substance.' The monotonous tone of our storytelling will actually chase people away. A lot of promises with no deliverance has been our signature for a very long time. I think that needs to change, so we need to work together Raj B Shetty 'We need to create content that can be celebrated in theatres as well as on OTT' 'Our bar for content has been raised, filtered by countless excellent productions. This shift means our perception of what's good, bad, or merely acceptable is constantly evolving. Now we expect something new and fresh whenever we go to the theatre,' says Raj. Addressing a common complaint among filmmakers, Raj argues that OTT platforms aren't killing cinema, but rather are forcing the industry to elevate its craft. 'Many filmmakers believe that because of OTT, cinema is dying down or that because of theatres, we don't have OTT. But, again, it all comes down to content. The shift that people are noticing is that, before, mediocre films used to sell in cinema halls. Now the filtration is so hard. Even though a filmmaker might not recognise it as mediocre, people are recognising it as mediocre and slamming it right then and there.' 'I believe that cinema can transcend borders if quality is achieved' He addresses the 'pan-India' buzzword, asserting that true widespread appeal comes not from generic content, but from deeply rooted, high-quality storytelling. 'Kantara became pan-Indian organically – it wasn't made to be pan-India. Currently, people are watching films simply because they are good, and that's the only real 'pan-Indian' content. I really believe that cinema can transcend borders if quality is achieved. People won't watch a film if it is not good, even in your own territory – even your family won't watch a bad film. This has been the truth always. I don't focus on making generic subjects which will slowly turn out to go pan-India. I believe in making the films which are rooted, which are authentic, whether they go pan India or not,' he says.
Time of India
18-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
‘Su from So' Trailer: Raj B Shetty denies acting cameo; calls mystery shot a creative tease
'Su from So' is an upcoming Kannada movie directed by JP Thuminad. The trailer of the film has created buzz because of a mysterious scene that led people to think Raj B Shetty might be acting in it. Viral moment from the trailer of the film A fleeting moment from the trailer of JP Thuminad's debut directorial, 'Su from So', has gone viral, sparking widespread speculation online. Around the 2-minute, 20-second mark, a distinctive close-up shot of a leg adorned in a sari caught the attention of viewers. This brief visual ignited a flurry of discussions across social media, with many fans wondering if the leg belonged to popular Kannada filmmaker and actor Raj B Shetty, fueling rumors of a surprise cameo appearance in the film. Raj B Shetty addresses the rumors To address the rumours, Raj B Shetty gave a clear statement denying any such appearance. He confirmed that the leg in the trailer does not belong to him and said, 'That's definitely not my leg.' Raj clarified his involvement in the film, stating that he is only connected to the project as a producer and lyricist and he emphasized that he does not appear anywhere on-screen in the movie and dismissed the online theories about his cameo. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo Raj also explained the reasoning behind that mysterious leg shot in the trailer, he said it was a deliberate choice to create a sense of mystery and curiosity among the audience and according to him, the film contains many surprises that go beyond what's shown in the trailer, and the team wanted viewers to start guessing and talking about it. This mystery, he believes, will add to the movie's charm once people watch it in theatres. About 'Su from So' The intriguing title, 'Su from So', is an abbreviation for Sulochana from Someshwar, subtly hinting at the film's mysterious narrative. Set in a quaint village near Mangaluru, the plot ignites with an unusual nocturnal event: a knock at a villager's door in the dead of night, after which strange occurrences begin to unfold. One of the villagers, potentially portrayed by director JP Thuminad himself, starts exhibiting what appears to be possessed behavior. The central mystery of 'Su from So' delves into whether these events are genuinely supernatural or merely the product of escalating local fear and superstition. The film is all set to release in theatres on July 25, 2025. It marks JP Thuminad's directorial debut and has been helmed by Raj B Shetty's production company. Raj B Shetty's creative contributions behind the scenes of 'Su from So' are deemed significant. He openly addressed the current downturn in Kannada cinema's audience turnout, acknowledging the recent low numbers. Nevertheless, he expressed optimism that their sincere efforts would resonate with viewers, hoping the film would wholeheartedly entertain the audience upon its release on July 25, 2025.
