Kerala Theatres Strike: Cinemas To Go Dark Over Protest Against Premature OTT Release Of '2018'

Kerala Cinemas To Go Dark Over Protest: In a significant turn of events, cinema theatres across Kerala are set to remain shuttered for the next two days.

The decision was made during a crucial meeting held in Kochi under the chairmanship of FEUOK (Film Exhibitors United Organisation of Kerala), marking a collective stand against the violation of an agreement that granted early rights for the film ' 2018' to an Over-The-Top (OTT) platform.

Expressing their discontent, theatre owners have announced their intention to refund tickets purchased online for the scheduled screenings during the strike period.

The agreement in question stipulated that any film should only be released on an OTT platform after a gap of 42 days following its theatrical release.

Meanwhile, '2018', the recent blockbuster in the Malayalam film industry, is slated for an OTT release on June 7 via Sony Liv. Surprisingly, the film is set to hit the digital platform on the 33rd day since its theatrical debut, causing an uproar among theatre owners.

Jude Anthany Joseph Responds To The Strike

Addressing the issue, director Jude Anthany Joseph expressed his understanding and respect for the theatre owners' protest.

"I respect the strike initiated by the theatre owners. As a filmmaker, I have always strived to ensure the producer's safety before the film's release. That's why the Sony Liv deal appeared to be a blessing. It was never intended to cause any harm. This is part of business. I thank Sony Liv for trusting our film before its release, and I thank all for loving our film. The theatre owners and the audiences-you are the real heroes," clarified Jude Anthony.

With cinema halls closed and the industry grappling with the conflict between traditional theatrical releases and the growing influence of OTT platforms, the future of film distribution and exhibition in Kerala hangs in the balance.