FEUOK's refusal to budge from their demands poses threat to new Malayalam releases from February 23

The Film Exhibitors United Organisation of Kerala (FEUOK) has confirmed that they are moving forward with their decision to temporarily cease the release of Malayalam films in theatres starting this Friday (February 23). This comes after producers refused to budge on their demands made on February 17. 

Additionally, they have been unable to cooperate with the theatre owners association to address the violations of the agreement. Initially, FEUOK had planned to cease theatrical releases on February 22, but they have since moved that date to the following day.

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FEUOK’s demands on film release

According to FEUOK, a number of producers have disregarded the mutual agreement's clause stating that a film can only be made available digitally 42 days following its theatrical release. They have also demanded a 55 percent decrease from the 60 percent share of theatre revenue that goes to the producers.

Additionally, they had expressed concern about producers choosing the projector to be used in theatres because their suggestions would come at an enormous cost to the former.

The association has further claimed that producers are endorsing multiplexes by limiting the number of screenings in theatres that have only one screen. The films that are presently playing in theatres will continue to be screened while this is happening, the association has confirmed.

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FEUOK’s decision poses a threat to films

Due to the fact that Manjummel Boys, another eagerly awaited Malayalam film of 2024, is set to make its big screen debut on Thursday, Malayalis are somewhat relieved that the FEUOK has decided to postpone the date of temporarily ceasing the screening of new releases until Friday.

On the other hand, the decision will affect Nadirshah's next directorial, Once Upon a Time in Kochi, which premieres on February 23. A few films that were scheduled for release in February, including Kadakan and Marivillin Gopurangal, had their release dates pushed back for unknown reasons.

In the meantime, this month saw the release of a number of highly anticipated films, including Mammootty's Bramayugam and Tovino Thomas' Anweshippin Kandethum. In addition to these films playing well in theatres, people are also giving Naslen and Mamitha Baiju's Premalu stellar reviews.

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