The Multiplex Association of India has sent a legal notice to the team behind the film “Indian 2” for violating the agreed-upon guidelines for the digital release of the movie. The notice comes after the Hindi dubbed version of the film premiered on Netflix, much earlier than the stipulated 8-week window agreed upon by the producers.
“Indian 2,” a sequel to the 1997 cult classic “Indian,” was released in theaters on July 12, 2024. However, the film failed to meet expectations and was a box office disaster. As per the pre-decided norms, the makers planned to premiere the Tamil and Telugu versions on digital platforms four weeks after the theatrical release.
Surprisingly, the Hindi dubbed version also made an early debut on Netflix, in less than six weeks.
The Multiplex Association of India has specific rules for the theatrical release of Hindi films. Producers are expected to follow a strict 8-week OTT (Over-The-Top) window, and those who violate the guidelines will not receive a release in the top three national multiplex chains: PVR, Inox, and Cinepolis. The “Indian 2” team had agreed to these terms and secured a release in the national chains.
“But the multiplex association was shocked to discover that the Hindi version of ‘Indian 2’ is streaming now on Netflix, much before the stipulated 8-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,” a source told Pinkvilla.
Multiple people from the Multiplex Association of India and other exhibitors have independently confirmed this development to Pinkvilla, requesting anonymity. The association aims to send a strong message to all producers to adhere to the 8-week window policy.
“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 8-week OTT window for all films seeing a release in North India,” the source concluded.
Meanwhile, “Indian 3” is scheduled for release in 2025.
Related topics:
