Earlier in the day, there were shock waves in the Tamil film industry when the buzz regarding Master’s OTT release surfaced. The film, starring Thalapathy Vijay, is the biggest film from Tamil cinema, still waiting for a release. It was supposed to hit cinemas in 2020.
After lots of speculation, the makers of Vijay’s Master have come with an official announcement. They confirmed that a huge offer had come their way from a reputed OTT platform to have a digital release. However, the production house has declined the offer and confirmed a theatrical release. The decision is right, considering Master is a mass movie starring a ‘mass’ star.
The other options for the makers of Master were limited. They would have got a potentially record-breaking deal digitally, but the lack of reflection of it via the box office receipts would have affected Vijay’s stardom.
A ‘Pay-per-view’ model is also an option. It would bring out the numbers. But, it will be a fraction of what Vijay would generally get theatrically. The problem will be instant HD piracy available from the first show. The process also won’t allow the flourishing of Vijay’s stardom.
Finally, the third option is simultaneous release in the theatres and on digital. It is a better option, but piracy again becomes an issue. More importantly, the exhibitors in India are unanimously against screening movies which arrive digitally (even if it is on the same day).
Considering all the various options, a theatrical release is the best option. Whether the producers are forced to do so, or that is the only option they have in mind, it is the right decision and happening for Vijay.
Whenever Master arrives in cinemas, it will be the focus of the entire nation. The whole film trade of India will be looking at its opening reception. If Vijay recreates his magic, it will turn out to be a historical moment for the star. Will it be Sankranthi 2021 or summer 2021? Let’s wait and see when it happens.
We’re hiring!
We are hiring two full-time junior to mid-level writers with the option to work remotely. You need to work a 5-hour shift and be available to write. Interested candidates should email their sample articles to [email protected]. Applications without a sample article will not be considered.
