Exclusive! Chandan Achar: Getting another date with audiences on OTT gives a film a wider reach

Missed catching actor Chandan Achar’s solo hero debut Mangalavara Rajaadina in movie halls earlier this year? Not to worry, the film by writer and director Yuvin is set for an OTT release. Zee5 Kannada acquired the official satellite and OTT rights of Mangalavara Rajaadina on August 24, but an official release date is yet to be announced.

Mangalavara Rajaadina opened in theatres to favourable reviews in February, at a time when theatres were operating at full capacity. “For the modest attempt we made at telling a simple story, we got a decent opening, but given the number of films that had been piling up for release, a more popular movie took up halls a few days later. So, knowing that the film will get another date with audiences on TV and OTT, is exciting, as it will give our story a wider reach,” says Chandan.

Mangalavara Rajaadina is a tale of a family of barbers, the youngest of who harbours a dream to style his favourite actor, Sudeep, some day. While the narrative follows that trajectory for the most part, there is enough family drama and emotions thrown in for good measure.

Up next, Chandan is awaiting the release of the sports drama Jersey 10, which is gunning for a theatrical outing. The actor, though, is aware of the challenge that poses, as the pandemic has delayed the release of several films, while many others are in various stages of production and joining that queue. “It is any actor’s dream to get a theatrical release and see the audience react to what you have brought to the table. But we are also weighing our options, as there are just way too many films waiting to be released. The Karnataka Chief Minister is looking at allowing 100% occupancy in theatres in time for the festive season, so that should come as a relief for many film teams,” he signs off.