When PVR introduced the Passport model, it was definitely a win-win for the theaters and the viewers. PVR got rid of the empty theaters during the weekdays, and audiences got to experience the theaters at a cheaper cost.
But there is a big problem: PVR is now limiting the usage of PVR Passports, and that is pissing the fans off.
Now, PVR is stating that users who buy the pass after 8th July will face some restrictions. PVR announced a blackout period for the new users.
What’s the blackout period?
In the new batch of passports, users will be unable to opt for a movie during the first week of its theatrical run. This is definitely for the profitability of the theaters, as the first week is usually the strongest for the box office. However, it takes away the most attractive aspect of the passport, and there is a chance that the user base for the Passport will decrease.
What movies can’t users watch in the first week?
The blackout period includes movies like Indian 2, Deadpool & Wolverine, Vedaa, Stree 2, Khel Khel Mein, Thangalaan, Double iSmart, GOAT, Devara, OG, Kanguva, Vettaiyan, Gamechanger, Pushpa 2, Joker: Folie à Deux, Venom: The Last Dance, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, Singham Again, Mufasa: The Lion King, Baby John, and Sitara Zameen Par.
This will definitely hurt business and break the trust of the users. The ₹349 per month plan was quite a deal for the users, but the restrictions will soon take effect.
PVR is definitely playing with the users, but one good part about it is that they are being clear about it. Though you won’t be able to watch the big titles during the first week, it isn’t applicable to all titles, so you can still benefit from the deal.