Online Screening Helped Alias Janaki Break Even: Neelima

Despite stiff criticism from theatre owners, distributors and industry well-wishers, producer Neelima Tirumalasetti released Alias Janaki online along with its theatrical release. And she has managed to recover her investment. The movie hit the theatres on July 26 and on the same day, it was released on Zingreel, an online movie viewing platform, for $4.99.

Talking to IANS, Neelima Tirumalasetti revealed the number of viewers watched Alias Janaki online. The producer said, "The response has been phenomenal online. In one week we have about 4,000 views and the number is growing with each passing day. I'm extremely happy that despite all the problems I faced because of the sensible move, I managed to recover my cost."

Neelima Tirumalasetti added, "I knew someone had to take the step irrespective of all the criticism. Competing for wide theatrical release for a small budget film like ours is nearly impossible. We managed to release it in 75 theatres in Andhra Pradesh and in a few theatres in the US as well."

Written and directed by debutant Dayaa K, Alias Janaki featuring newcomers Rahul Venkat and Anisha Ambrose in the leads, dealt with a unique storyline. Although the film received mixed reviews, it was able to make decent collection from a limited number of screens in Andhra Pradesh. Continue to read Neelima Tirumalasetti's interview in the slideshow.

Neelima On AJ Reviews

Talking about the reviews fo Alias Janaki, Neelima said, "There have been some negative reviews as well, but the feedback has been 80 percent positive from online exhibition. Those who didn't have access to the film in cinemas, watched it online and appreciated our effort."

Online Release - Great Platform For Low-Budget Films

Neelima added, "I was told by the management of Zingreel that a few more Telugu films have signed up after seeing the response to our film. I firmly believe this is a great platform for low-budget films. I hope this opens the door to many other films as well."

More Telugu Films To Release Online

Other Telugu films that have signed up on Zingreel include Kalicharan, Mallela Theeram Lo Sirimalle Puvvu, Love Dotcom and Mathru Devo Bhava.

Neelima Reduce Price For Viewing AJ Online

Following the overwhelming response, Neelima has now made Alias Janaki available for $3.99 on Yupp TV, an online TV and movie streaming channel.

Neelima Continue Exhibiting Films Online

She says she will continue exhibiting films online. "I believe this is a great revenue model for low-budget films. I intend to continue exhibiting all my low-budget films online," she added.