Even as the neighboring film industries are booming with theatrical business, the theaters in Kerala face a dire situation with no audience coming to watch the film. The COVID-19 cases in the state on a rise while the cases in the country are down for quite some days now.
So, the state government is implementing stricter measures to contain the Pandemic. Night shows are currently not allowed in Kerala and there is no chance of allowing them in near future. As a result, Mammootty’s The Priest which slated for February 4 likely to be pushed further.
At this outset, the OTT platforms are smelling a chance in the Malayalam film industry. With the theatrical business opening, doors are closing on the OTT platforms in industries like Telugu and Tamil. Hindi film industry is also targeting redemption of theatrical business with Salman Khan’s Radhe releasing in May. So, it is the right time for OTTs to fish in the troubled waters of the Malayalam film industry. The filmmakers may even resort to panic selling after The Priest gets postponed. Moreover, Malayalam films are known for their unique subjects and they are liked by audiences across the country. Furthermore, they come at affordable rates which make them further special.