PADMAVATI NEEDS A CLEAR RUN: EXPERTS,
HIGH BUDGET
Experts feel that since the Deepika Padukone-Ranveer Singh-Shahid Kapoor starrer has been made on a humungous budget, reportedly around ₹180 crore, it will require a “clear, long run minus any major competition” at the box office to break even or make profits.
“Such a film will 100% need an absolutely clear run. And even if there is a good film a week ahead or after Padmavati, it will affect its business, which won’t be good at all for an expensive film like this,” says trade expert Komal Nahta.
OUT IN OPEN
Another issue is that since December 1 weekend is suddenly left open, it means big losses for Bollywood. “Postponement of release has brought a lot of resentment and losses for the industry as every distributor and exhibitor was ready to release the film. But now, there is no film on that weekend,” says Nahta.
Whatever new release date Padmavati makers choose, the entire “strategy will have to be reworked” now, say experts. “Nowadays, a release date is very critical. That’s why once you miss out on a big release date then your entire strategy becomes irrelevant. Now Padmavati makers have to start all over again and come up with a new plan altogether,” says Mehra.
JOINT CALL
At the same time, exhibitor- distributor Akshaye Rathi feels Padmavati is likely to “do well whenever it releases.” “But a film should release in a peaceful environment. I am sure makers will come up with a new release date only when the entire issue has been sorted and ironed out. This film will need a clear run at the box office minus any competition or opposition,” says Rathi.
Furthermore, experts opine that in such a scenario, a “joint call” should be taken by makers of all the major films that are scheduled to release in the coming weeks. “A combined decision is the need of the hour to ensure that the business of any of the films doesn’t get affected. For instance, three big films on Republic Day weekend isn’t a viable option,” adds Rathi.
Nowadays, a release date is very critical. That’s why once you miss out on a big release date then your entire strategy becomes irrelevant. Now Padmavati makers have to start all over again and come up with a new plan altogether. AMOD MEHRA, TRADE ANALYST