WHAT’S THE IDEAL GAP BETWEEN THEATRICAL AND OTT RELEASE?
Trade experts feel these are exceptional circumstances in the film world that have raised a lot of questions
Vijay and Vijay Sethupati starrer Master was one of the most anticipated films of the year. The response, considering the pandemic and less occupancy in theatres, was up to the mark, which is why it came as a big surprise when the makers released it on an OTT platform within weeks of it releasing.
Rumours are strong that makers of Sooryavanshi are exploring something similar, or maybe even a simultaneous theatrical and OTT release. What does this step spell out for all parties involved?
Shibasish Sarkar, CEO, Reliance Entertainment says, “Nothing is final yet, either about ’83 or Sooryavanshi. One thing is for sure, we are aiming to release at least one of the two, either during last week of March or first week of April. We will soon make an announcement. Our first discussion is with theatres,” he says.
Analysing the situation from a trade perspective, Taran Adarsh says, “Earlier, the gap between a theatrical and OTT release was eight weeks, In case of Master, a lot of people got upset also, let’s see what Sooryavanshi does. There should be a minimum of fourfive weeks gap, or how will theatres survive?”
Exhibitor Akshaye Rathi feels Master came as early as January, when theatres were just getting back on their feet. “After 100% occupancy, circumstances are better. Besides that, it also released within two weeks of it’s theatrical release on OTT. I’m not sure if makers of Hindi films will be willing to do that,” he says.
While this tussle between producers, theatres and OTT platforms goes on, a director wants his/her film to be seen by more people. Hansal Mehta, whose film Chhalaang released directly on an OTT, says, “As long as my producer is able to recover their cost with profit, I am absolutely happy with the situation. This is a period of recalibration. Theatres have reopened, but have audiences gone back? No. Both parties should be open for the next 18-20 months, this is not the time to dictate terms, it’s the time to work together.”
Sarkar adds, “There has to be a different timeline between theatres and the content coming on OTT. In the last year, every theory has got challenged.”
This is a period of recalibration. It’s the time to work together.
HANSAL MEHTA, filmmaker