The new strategy of a shorter release window is on its way to harm multiplexes and theaters and is indeed beneficial for OTT platforms. This is not an acquisition but a reality faced by the owners of the big screen.
Most movies from the southern part of India observe a very short release window. Basically, there are two major reasons. Firstly, they have a more hardcore audience base who are usually more inclined toward theaters, resulting in high audience density.
Several cinema chains, such as PVR, Inox, and Cinepolis, have chosen not to show the Hindi version of Tamil actor Vijay’s movie “Leo” during the Dussehra weekend. This decision aligns with their earlier stance when they also refrained from screening Rajinikanth’s “Jailer” in August.
The situation could affect Vijay’s movie “Leo” even more because it’s scheduled to release in IMAX theaters, mainly located in North India. This might result in the film missing out on significant earnings from this high-end cinematic experience.
A senior multiplex chain executive said that it is now up to the producers. The theaters are asking for an 8-week release window for the Hindi version and four weeks for the Tamil version. Obviously, OTT platforms will seek shorter windows as it will attract the audience to their platforms even more.
Also, with a shorter window, most people will choose to wait for a month to watch it at their homes, somewhat affecting the theater business in one way or another.
