FEUOK Holds Crucial Meeting In Kochi Amidst Rising Dissent Over Film Release Ban: Dileep In Attendance

Published: Tuesday, February 27, 2024, 16:04 [IST]

FEUOK Meeting Amidst Growing Dissent: Dileep in Attendance

FEUOK's Crucial Meeting With Dileep Underway In Kochi: The Film Exhibitors United Organisation of Kerala (FEUOK) is currently embroiled in a crucial meeting in Kochi, with prominent actor Dileep in attendance. This gathering comes amidst escalating tensions within the organisation regarding the decision of theatre owners to withhold the release of new Malayalam films due to a dispute with producers.

FEUOK initiated a halt to the release of Malayalam films from February 23, citing specific demands directed towards producers. These demands include the allowance to set preferred projection systems and a stipulation for OTT release only after 42 days of theatrical release.

The ongoing meeting in Kochi holds significant importance as it is amidst the mounting dissent within FEUOK. Notably, actor Dileep, along with Antony Perumbavoor, who are both theatre owners as well as producers, serve as the chairman and vice chairman of FEUOK, respectively.

The organisation's actions can impact Dileep, as his upcoming film 'Thankamani,' scheduled for release on March 7, faces uncertainty. Similarly, 'Once Upon a Time in Kochi,' directed by Dileep's close associate Nadirsha, was initially set for release on February 23 but was postponed to March 1 due to the ongoing strike.

Previously, the predominant organisation representing theatre owners was the Kerala Film Exhibitors Federation, led by Liberty Basheer. FEUOK emerged as a dissenting faction in opposition to Liberty Basheer's leadership.

FEUOK's Stand On OTT Release

Producers are required to submit an affidavit to the film chamber, promising that the film will be released on OTT platforms only after 42 days from its theatrical release, before commencing production. However, this commitment has been breached multiple times by several producers, leading to immediate OTT releases post theatrical screenings. Allegedly, this practice results in financial losses for theatre owners. Earlier, FEUOK officials affirmed that all disputes would be settled within the week, ruling out any possibility of a division.