A few months ago, the controversial and popular comic character Shin-chan came to life on the big screen in India. Now, Japanese manga character Doraemon, who has numerous TV films to his credit, has hit theatres in the country too.
As a Dussehra release for younger audiences, Doraemon: Nobita And The Steel Troops released in both Hindi and English today. “The characters and stories have been around for a while now on Disney and Hungama and they have been hugely popular with kids across big cities and small towns. Even the earlier movies that were aired on television were popular,” says Seshasaye Kanthamraju, executive director, marketing and distribution, Walt Disney Studios, India, which has acquired the rights to distribute the film.
He adds, “The response we got from the release of Shin-chan a few months ago made us feel that now would be the perfect time to give this film a theatrical release. Both films have similar followings,” Unlike many animated adaptations getting theatrical releases in India, this film also has a soundtrack. The entirely digital release will be screened in an estimated 150 to 200 screens around the country. “In terms of families’ acceptance of animation, now is a good time for such films,” says Kanthamraju.
The adventures of the character were originally written in Japanese by Fujiko F Fujio, and were later translated and adapted into TV films, short films and video games among others.
{{/usCountry}}The adventures of the character were originally written in Japanese by Fujiko F Fujio, and were later translated and adapted into TV films, short films and video games among others.
{{/usCountry}}Since 1980, over 30 independent films on Doraemon have been produced but this is the first time a film on the character is releasing in India.