Filmmakers look to de-risk projects, sign OTT deals as box office bombs

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Subscribe to enjoy similar stories. New Delhi: Filmmakers are increasingly signing pacts to release films on streaming platforms before they hit the theatres, as they seek to de-risk their projects at a time audiences have soured on movie-going. Producers have also faced criticism for mentioning the streaming partner in the marketing and publicity of the said film, which many say, takes away from the need to go to the cinemas as the movie would soon be available for home-viewing.

There are some exceptions, though. According to media reports, actor Aamir Khan has decided to sell his films to OTT platforms only after theatrical release, but industry experts say that few can afford such a move as deals with streaming companies often act as seed funding when the project goes on floors. Most producers would not be able to start shoots before the deals are in place.

“The southern filmmakers are quite keen to not put OTT partner labels and reinstate faith in the box office. The Hindi film industry is lagging behind because the cost of production is very high and producers want to make sure pre-release deals are in place," film producer, and trade and exhibition expert Girish Johar said. Johar added that publicizing streaming partners gives a sense to the audience that the film will be available at home soon enough, but an individual like Aamir Khan taking the risk to not sell films pre-theatrical release will not make a difference.