Kamala Haasan’s much-anticipated film Indian 2 has turned into a significant disappointment, leaving both the star and the director, S. Shankar, facing backlash. Despite a budget of ₹250 crores, the film has reportedly earned less than ₹150 crores globally, resulting in a swift release on OTT platforms. However, this move has stirred controversy, leading to a legal notice from the Multiplex Association of India (MAI). Let’s delve into the details of this situation.
What Happened with Indian 2?
The film was released on July 12, and within just four weeks, the Telugu and Tamil versions made their way to Netflix, followed by the Hindi version two weeks later. This swift release timeline has raised eyebrows, as it allegedly violates the established rules set by the Multiplex Association.
OTT Release Rules Violated
According to reports, the MAI has issued a legal notice stating that the producers of Indian 2 breached the guidelines regarding OTT releases. The MAI has stipulated that any Hindi film must remain exclusively in theaters for eight weeks before being available on digital platforms. Failure to comply with this regulation could result in the film being barred from being showcased in major cinema chains like PVR, Inox, and Cinepolis.
Notification Controversy
The MAI has raised an alarm over the premature release of the Hindi version of Indian 2, which should have been launched on September 6. The early availability of the film on Netflix contradicts the agreed-upon terms and has displeased the association significantly.
Reasons Behind the 8-Week Rule
The MAI’s eight-week rule is designed to safeguard the theatrical experience. If films are released on OTT platforms soon after their theatrical debut, it risks discouraging audiences from visiting cinemas, as they may opt to wait for home viewing instead. The association is committed to upholding this rule to ensure that theatrical releases remain a viable business for filmmakers and theater owners alike.
Setting a Precedent
While Indian 2 has already exited theaters due to underperformance, the MAI aims to send a clear message with this legal notice. By holding the producers accountable, they intend to deter other filmmakers from similar violations in the future. There is a strong sentiment within the MAI that leniency could lead to chaos, where multiple producers might take advantage of the system.
Conclusion: The Future of Indian 2
With Indian 2 being labeled a significant flop, the decision to release it on OTT platforms quickly raises questions about the future of theater releases in India. The response from the producers regarding the legal notice remains to be seen, but it underscores the importance of adhering to established industry standards. As the dust settles, the incident may serve as a crucial lesson for filmmakers regarding the balance between theatrical and digital releases.
