Not able to find tickets for the Hindi version of ‘G.O.A.T’ on Book My Show in north India? Well that’s because national multiplex chains like PVR, INOX and Cinepolis have decided not to release the Hindi version of Vijay’s highly anticipated upcoming Tamil film ‘G.O.A.T’ in northern regions.
The reason cited for this is the window between theatrical and digital release for South Indian films which is usually 4 to 5 weeks. Whereas national chains follow a strict policy of 8 weeks gap between theatrical release and OTT premiere for Hindi films.
These very national chains (PVR, INOX and Cinepolis) are releasing the non-Hindi versions of the film in south India. Though you may find the tickets for Hindi version in some other multiplex chains in north India.
So how will this impact the film’s collections? Well, it will definitely have some considerable impact on the film’s box office performance since big stars like Vijay now have a larger national appeal and fan following than before due to the advent of OTT and the subsequent increased reach.
Also, there are concerns regarding the 8 week window rule for Hindi films since many believe that except for certain tentpole films not every film deserves such long gap before OTT release.
But if thought from the national chains’ point of view, it’s the population density in the Hindi speaking zones that require such wait periods to have an optimum utilisation of the theatrical release before a particular film’s popularity slows down and people are ready for the next one.