BOMBAY TIMES (July 8, 2021)

Viacom18 Studios has embarked on the journey to create India’s first aerial action franchise film, Fighter. A high-octane cinematic spectacle with Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone in the lead, the film will be directed by Siddharth Anand and produced by Viacom18 Studios and Marflix.

Speaking about the project, Ajit Andhare, COO, Viacom18 Studios, says, “As a Top Gun fan, it’s been a dream to develop a true-blue aerial action film of our own. We have been looking for scripts on this subject for years and always envisaged Hrithik featuring in the cockpit, while Deepika brings in a new dimension to the story. I am excited to partner with Siddharth in building this franchise, as he brings the correct blend of craft and pulse of this genre. We have a tradition of taking bold steps to redefine Indian cinema, and this will be a landmark film in that journey.”

Siddharth Anand adds, “Fighter is my most ambitious film yet, and I am glad to have someone with Ajit’s vision and passion to be partnering this film with me. This film is our attempt to create not only the first aerial action franchise in India, but also put Indian films on the map for action-loving global theatrical audiences.” Designed for a global theatrical audience, Fighter will involve the latest technology, filming techniques and locations across the world, but the story is truly Indian and salutes the valour, sacrifice and patriotism of our Armed Forces.

Viacom18 Studios has an exhilarating line-up of upcoming releases, including Hindi films Laal Singh Chaddha and Shabaash Mithu, as well as Hollywood releases such as A Quiet Place II, Mission: Impossible 7, Snake Eyes: G.I. Joe Origins and PAW Patrol: The Movie.