Makers of Bell Bottom & multiplex associations clashes over its release plans

Bell Bottom starring Akshay Kumar is in the news again. The filmmakers are insisting to premier their movie digitally quite soon after it releases in cinemas. Whereas, this plan is not sitting well with the  cinema owners. They are at loggerheads with the makers for the same. They aren’t in the favor of premiering the thriller within 20 days of its theatrical release. Reportedly, they are demanding atleast a 28 day gap between the releases. The multiplex associations are even threatening to not to release the film at all.

When the news that makers of Bell Bottom were planning its OTT release so soon was in air, an exhibitor told, “We have been speaking to the team of Bell Bottom regarding the terms of release. While we understand that the producers are taking a risk, they need to realise that cinema halls are bleeding the most. How and why will the audience come to watch a film on the big screen, if it’s premiering on OTT in 2 weeks?”

According to reports of a trade source, while single screens are open to the idea, national multiplex chains are not favoring this decision. The source informed, “The multiplex associations are against the idea of film releasing on OTT within 20 days. They are holding their ground asking the makers to ensure a gap of at least 28 days. If the makers take steps otherwise, the national chains wouldn’t release Bell Bottom across their screens.”

Continuing further, this source added, “They feel it’s unfair and will set a wrong precedent for all upcoming releases. The multiplex owners agreeing to this would mean, the entire slate of forthcoming releases would also release on digital platforms within 2 to 3 weeks, meaning a solid loss of revenue for the cinema owners.”