PVR to bring opera inspired auditorium concept Oma Cinema to India

The announcement was made at CinemaCon 2022 in Las Vegas, the largest convention of the movie theatre owners from around the world.

Chican, who has designed some of the most cutting-edge cinemas in France over the last 30 years, has taken inspiration from the great theatres and opera houses for Oma Cinema’s unique tiered balconies, or ‘pods’, which enable viewers a sociable cinema experience whilst enjoying a perfect view of the screen.

“We are excited to bring about the unique and proprietary concept of cinema pods to India with this exclusive tie up with PVR,” said Chican, founder and president of Oma Cinema. “Our designs ensure that each pod within an auditorium is unique and designed to perfection.”

“As a leading out-of-home entertainment destination, we are keen on building cinemas with more experiential elements which is not possible in a home environment setting,” added Pramod Arora, Chief Growth and Strategy Officer, PVR. “Besides the most advanced cinematic technology, we have always been on the forefront of design architecture and innovative concepts, to ensure that our patrons get to experience the magic of movies and create happy memories every time they visit the cinemas… Many corporates have been used to their own box at sporting events in stadiums and now they shall have an option to have one in a cinema too.”

Arora told ET that PVR has been in touch with Oma Cinemas since close to two years and will start working on the pilot, which is expected to be ready within 18-24 months.

“It will require some approvals from the state governments,” he said. “There could be a loss of 10-40% seats per screen, depending on how many pods we put in. Every pod will have 18-35 seats.”

The cost, Arora said, will be around 25% higher than other premium screens, which currently ranges around Rs 3-4 crore per screen.

“With Oma Cinemas, we will be able to offer the same experience, which used to be a thing for a few privileged people, to every Indian – a movie party for his family and friends with bespoke service and a large screen,” he said.

While he did not disclose the financial details, Arora said that PVR will pay a one-time fee for each Oma Cinema they open. “The association is exclusive and will be a technical knowhow exchange… There will be a one time fee for each screen and we will keep Oma name with the screen as they have a strong brand name.”

PVR has recently launched Mumbai’s first rooftop drive-in theatre at Jio World Drive in Mumbai.