The Tamil Nadu Theatre Owners Association has submitted a letter to the state government, emphasizing several requests to improve operational conditions for theatres. These include:
1. Dynamic Ticket Pricing: The association seeks permission to implement dynamic ticket prices up to ₹250 plus taxes for different types of theatres: ₹250 for multiplexes, ₹200 for A/C theatres, and ₹150 for non-A/C theatres.
Also Read – Prasanth Varma Delivers a Dud On OTT
2. Early Morning and Regular Shows: They are requesting permission for early morning shows, in addition to five regular screenings. The association advocates for the same first-day-first-show (FDFS) start times in Tamil Nadu as observed in other states across India.
3. OTT Release Window: A request for a release window of 6-8 weeks for films before they debut on OTT platforms is also included.
Also Read – List Of Titles Premiering On OTT This Week
In a letter addressed to the Tamil Nadu government, R. Paneerselvam, the General Secretary of the association, stated:
“To the Government’s Attention,
Also Read – Netflix In Trouble For Shocking Criminal Activities!
We kindly request approval to collect 10% of maintenance charges from the admission fee.
In neighboring states, theatres can screen films 24 hours a day. We believe Tamil Nadu should adopt a similar policy to allow more flexible show timings without restrictions on the number of screenings.
We also seek permission for commercial activities in theatres, akin to those permitted in malls. Since theatres operate under MSME regulations, we ask for adherence to MSME guidelines regarding electricity charges.
If these requests are granted, theatres can operate without incurring losses.”
While these requests reflect a genuine effort to revitalize the theatre industry, history shows that similar demands have been made across various language industries in India.
However, these efforts often falter as producers tend to opt for the quick financial gains offered by OTT platforms. The temptation of making films available on these platforms within just 3-4 weeks for a lucrative price can be difficult to resist.
The pressing question now is whether this demand for a 6-8 week OTT release window will endure this time around.