Streaming platforms Amazon and Netflix have reportedly signed partnerships with Anushka Sharma’s Clean Slate Filmz—aiming to release movies and web series worth a staggering $54 million.

Based in Mumbai, the production and distribution company aims to push out 8 films and series across the next 18 months, according to its co-founder Karnesh Ssharma. Ssharma declined to provide a full list before they were officially announced, although Netflix confirmed 3 productions set to begin in the near future.

A Recovering Film Industry

While most industries have been hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic, filmmaking, in particular, has suffered greatly. Crippled by financial and logistical difficulties, the third wave of Covid saw several productions falter and collapse as financiers backed out, cast and crew fell sick, and theatres struggled to stay afloat during lockdown periods. Clean Slate Filmz’ new deal comes as a pleasant surprise for filmmakers—after relaxed movement curbs and opened theatres, Mumbai’s denizens have returned to enjoying a day at the movies.

This is further bolstered by the heightened levels of competition between streaming giants, both local and international. December saw Netflix slash its Indian subscription prices by as much as 60 percent, while Amazon and Disney+ Hotstar continued to release new shows and dominate the market. The former’s co-founder Reed Hastings even made a public statement regarding the Indian market last week, highlighting Netflix’s challenges when it came to spreading across India.

“The competition between OTT giants has meant that budgets are rising, so is the will to experiment,” said Ssharma. While his company has experienced an impressive partnership with Amazon Prime Video in the form of the critically acclaimed Paatal Lok, roping in Netflix gives the production house even more avenues to experience growth and success.

In particular, Clean Slate Filmz is currently working on Netflix-bound Chakda Xpress —a cricket biopic starring Anushka Sharma for whom the film is a long-awaited return to screen.

The actor-producer will be playing former Indian captain Jhulan Goswami, one of the world’s greatest female bowlers. Netflix and Clean Slate Filmz will also be releasing a thriller series named Mai, as well as a drama feature film named Qala.

“What has happened over a period of time is ambition is also going up within the studio systems,” Ssharma concluded. “And that’s great for people like us.”

(Featured Image Credits: Instagram @anushkasharma)