The Effects Of Covid -19 on Indian Films
Amidst the lockdown and social distancing. The Indian film industry, largest film producing in the world has affected badly in terms on the economic front. The lockdown due to COVID-19 in India began in March 2020 and has continued to affect the film industry. Notably, big-budget movies were slated for release during this period. For instance, Akshay Kumar and Ajay Devgn were ready to hit theaters with “Sooryawanshi” on March 24, 2020; however, the lockdown prevented the movie from releasing in the targeted territories. Similarly, Ranveer Singh’s “83” was poised for release in April 2020. While the producers of these films expressed optimism and showed willingness to wait until the lockdown ends, some producers, conversely, contemplated releasing their movies on OTT platforms.
This shift highlights the varying strategies within the industry as it adapts to the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic. As a result, the landscape of film distribution is evolving, and the decision to release on digital platforms could redefine how audiences experience cinema in the future.
The decision to release Indian movies on OTT platforms is accidental or rather incidental. This can give new dimensions to movie business and its economics. Because it is highly possible that people will not risk going to the theatre to watch a movie as soon as the lockdown is over.
Post lockdown scenario
The theatre owners have to take steps which ensure that the theatres are safe to watch a movie. But still, people may not risk it, as watching a movie in a theater requires sitting in close proximity to other viewers. While it’s true that watching a movie with social distancing is possible! The theatre owners have to work out some feasible way to run the movie theater with social distancing.
Indian Movies confirmed released dates on OTT platform
Gulabo-Sitabo
Hindi movie releasing on 12th June 2020 on Amazon Prime. Amitabh Bacchan and Ayushman Khurana in the Lead the movie is first of its kind in Amitabh Bachchan’s Career of 51 years to be released on an OTT platform.
Also, it will be, in fact, the first OTT release for Ayushmann as well. Gulabo Sitabo have been directed by Shoojit Sircar of Piku Fame. The movie Looks Exciting.
Shakuntala Devi
This Hindi movie Stars Vidya Balan who played a role of Human Computer. The movie is inspired from the life of a mathematician which is going to be super exciting. The Movie is going to released on Amazon Prime. The Date has not been disclosed yet.
Penguin
“Penguin” is essentially a Tamil-Telugu movie. The makers have not revealed about the outline of the story. The movie will be released on Amazon Prime
Law
“The Law” is basically a Kannada movie, and it is set to release on June 26, 2020, on Amazon Prime. Law is a women centric film which looks promising and has a good story to tell.
Ponmagal Vandhal
It’s a Tamil Language Court Room drama film Starring Jyotika. Jyotika is known for her Hindi film debut in Doli Saja ke rakhna (1998). Ponmagal Vandhal will release on 29th May 2020 on Amazon Prime video.
French Biryani
Releasing on 24th July 2020 on Amazon Prime Video, this Kannada Comedy drama is revolved around a French expatriate and an auto rickshaw driver acquaintance. Danish Sait, a stand-up comedian is the main USP of the film.
