MUMBAI: In the last meeting that took place between the producers and distributors which was graced by Aamir Khan and Shah Rukh Khan, a proposal was passed that each producer and corporate take charge of one single screen in the country and upgrade it in order to successfully release films in single screens all across the country.
A source present at the meeting says, “When everybody present at the meeting was discussing as to why movies cannot release in single screens the only answer that came up was that it was due to their dilapidated condition. Hence a team is now looking at the feasibility of producers and corporates taking over a single screen each for their upgradation.”
The producers and distributors are currently preparing a list of single screens from all over the country, which if upgraded, can bring audiences back to theatres. Confirming the development to Businessofcinema.com, Ramesh Sippy says, “Yes it is true, we are working on a strategy on how best to release films and currently we are preparing a list of single screens which can perform better with upgraded facilities.”
Sippy further adds, “Shah Rukh and Aamir too have volunteered to financially help in the upgradation of cinemas. Currently three-four of us working on the list of the single screens and we will finalize them by April end.”
However, Sippy refused to comment on the number of single screens, which will be upgraded and the investment required for the same. “It is too soon to give a number right now as we are still working out the modalities.”
The upgradation work in cinemas may take 20 -30 days depending on the extent of work needed to be done and if all works well with this model, films may start releasing from June onwards. “This entire process may take one to one and a half month and then we are ready to roll,” says Sippy.
But what happens to this model if issues are sorted out between the producers, distributors and multiplexes in the mean time? Sippy informs, “Even when the issues get sorted amicably, we will continue to offer our support to the single screens.”
