It is common knowledge that filmmakers avoid releasing their movies at the same time as major cricketing events, to ensure maximum viewership. However, that may not be entirely correct. With almost 20 movies releasing during the Indian Premier League (IPL) season, that kicks off on March 12, talks with industry insiders reveal that the sports fiesta could be a blessing for small-time filmmakers.
Kamal Gianchandani of Reliance Big Pictures, which is producing Shyam Benegal’s Well Done Abba (releasing on March 26), says, “Since too many big films don’t release at that time, small films have a good opportunity.”
Rupen Amlani of Ashtavinayak Cinevision, that is producing Run Bhola Run (releasing on April 16), says, “We planned the release at that time because producers shy away from releasing movies during IPL. Cricket is played throughout the year and IPL is like competition to us, just like any other movie is.”
While some filmmakers may see the clash as a risk, there are others who beg to differ. Kumar Taurani, producer of Prince, that hits theatres on March 26, says, “It may be a risk, but I know that my film has shaped up well. I hope I will be able to sail through.”
Filmmaker Vikram Bhatt, whose film Shaapit releases on March 19, says, “There is so much cricket happening that saturation sets in even for that. I don’t think people are going to just watch cricket for two months. Plus, I’m selling a worthwhile sensation that is not available elsewhere.”
{{/usCountry}}Filmmaker Vikram Bhatt, whose film Shaapit releases on March 19, says, “There is so much cricket happening that saturation sets in even for that. I don’t think people are going to just watch cricket for two months. Plus, I’m selling a worthwhile sensation that is not available elsewhere.”
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