Kerala film producers call for strike, AMMA refuses to participate
What's the story
The Kerala Film Producers's Association (KFPA) has reportedly called for a one-day token strike in Kochi, demanding a slew of changes including a cut in actors' fees.
Although the date of the protest is yet to be finalized, it has already ignited a debate in the Malayalam industry.
However, the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) has openly said it will not support this strike.
Industry challenges
Strike aims to address critical industry concerns
The Kerala Film Chamber of Commerce has confirmed that the industry will stop work on the day of the strike.
The protest is mainly directed toward addressing critical industry issues, especially the rising remuneration of actors.
Despite financial strain due to rising production costs and increasing actor fees, the Film Chamber clarified their main concern isn't just cutting actors' fees but addressing larger issues concerning producers and ensuring industry sustainability.
Industry struggles
Producer G Suresh Kumar emphasized the need for urgent action
Ahead of the executive committee meeting, producer G Suresh Kumar emphasized the difficulties encountered by the industry.
At a press conference, he said theaters are operating at a loss and producers are resolute on their decision to strike.
"Everyone involved in cinema must act responsibly. If we wanted to halt film production, we would have done so... However, actors should reconsider their remuneration," he said.
Industry discord
Controversy over KFPA's internal decision-making is also a factor
The move to make box office collections public has been opposed by several industry bodies.
However, Kumar, who is the vice president of KFPA and former president of the state's Film Chamber of Commerce, is adamant that box office figures will remain public.
Further, an internal rift in KFPA emerged earlier, with senior producer Antony Perumbavoor publicly slamming Kumar for announcing a strike from June 1 unilaterally.
The executive committee has asked Perumbavoor to withdraw his Facebook post.
Open dialogue
Why won't AMMA support the strike?
Meanwhile, AMMA has expressed willingness to discuss the remuneration issue.
The decision was taken during a meeting at AMMA's office in Kochi, which was attended by around 50 actors including Mohanlal, Mammootty, Suresh Gopi, Manju Pillai, Bindu Panicker, Tovino Thomas, Saikumar Vijayaraghavan, Joju George, Biju Menon, Basil Joseph, and Ansiba Hassan.
In a statement released by AMMA on Instagram, they said: "Our members have decided not to support the strike called by a section of Malayalam film producers."
Strike impact
AMMA expressed concerns over potential impact of strike
AMMA also expressed apprehensions about the possible consequences of the strike, saying the Malayalam film industry is already struggling with financial losses.
The association stressed that a strike would only worsen the situation, impacting not just producers but also thousands of workers dependent on the industry.
On rising actor remuneration, AMMA clarified any decision would be taken only after its next general body meeting but reiterated its readiness to hold talks with any industry body.