Shiraz Mehdi renews discussion over theatre access for small films

Actor and producer Shiraz Mehdi, known for O AndalaRakshasi, has called upon Telangana government to intervene in the issue of theatre releases and digital/satellite rights for small budget movies.

Mehdi claimed that independent producers are facing difficulties recovering their investments due to scarce theatre options and no buyers for online rights. He also questioned the practices of Telugu Film Chamber and the monopolistic practices of multiplexes and satellite rights distributors like PVR, INOX and Asian Films. Calling upon Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, Mehdi sought subsidies, transparency in theatre allocations and a grievance redressal forum for small producers.

He also suggested creation of a Telangana wing to handle matters relating to regional cinema. Mehdi also alleged that legal notices and grievance petitions from several independent producers have gone unheeded by various stakeholders. He further said that the woes of small budget filmmakers impact actors, technicians and dozens of families dependent on per film production.

His allegations have once again brought to light issues concerning theatre allocations and financial viability of independent Telugu cinema films.