Here is a surprise entertaining package at the end of rather grim 2008. Who says only films can be entertaining? The antics and promotion gimmicks used by film stars to promote their flicks (as a part of film advertising and promotion) has become even more amusing and entertaining. Indian films are becoming well packaged entertainment.

Bollywood actor Aamir Khan turned barber for a day to promote his new film (and even his hair cut in the film) Gajini. Before that all multiplex ushers were given Gajini hair cut. Even before that there was much buzz about nice signed picture cards he sent to all editors of different media. In his last flick promotion media saw him creating awareness about dyslexia in kids. This is indeed surprising because this particular film star (who is also one of most critically acclaimed stars and has some of the best recent films to his credit) always avoided media. The other film stars too are often seen flaunting their character’s hair-cut, persona and actively promoting their films. Make no mistakes – it is all for box office and the magic Friday when film actually releases.

Film advertising has gone beyond ad posters, radio jingles and television promos. Now with advent of internet and whole new marketing ideas and strategies, producers, directors, actors and other sponsors use all possible media tools for publicity. Wonder does this really pay? Maybe they rake in huge profits but what about true success, critical acclaim and true adulation of the masses? Box office success has much to do with the content and not just packaging. Good cinema is all about art and not just business.

Via OneIndia