How did Haasan's 'Indian 2' upset Multiplex Association of India
What's the story
The Multiplex Association of India (MAI) has reportedly sent a legal notice to the makers of the Kamal Haasan starrer, Indian 2 for violating OTT guidelines.
According to a source cited by Pinkvilla, the film's Hindi version, Hindustani 2, was released on Netflix ahead of the stipulated eight-week window.
The source added that this move has upset key players in the exhibition sector.
Details
'Indian 2' team had agreed to follow guidelines: Source
The source said that the MAI has established rules for the theatrical release of Hindi films, which require producers to adhere to a strict eight-week OTT window.
Those who fail to comply with these guidelines will not be allowed to release their films in the top three national multiplex chains - PVR, Inox, and Cinepolis.
"The team of Indian 2 aka Hindustani 2 had agreed on the said guidelines and fetched a release in national chains," the source added.
Know more
'Hindustani 2' streaming on Netflix before stipulated window
The source further revealed that the MAI was surprised to find that Hindustani 2 is already available on Netflix, well ahead of the eight-week window.
"In an ideal world, Hindustani 2 should have streamed on September 6, but it's already on air and this has not gone down well with the power players in the exhibition sector," the source said.
Message
MAI aims to send strong message to all producers
The source also mentioned that the MAI is keen on sending a strong message to all producers about adhering to the eight-week window.
"If one producer gets away, it allows many more to follow suit. The idea is to set an example that such acts won't be taken lightly. The MAI is very clear on maintaining an eight-week OTT window for all films seeing a release in North India," the source stated.