Tamil exhibitors decision to shut down theatres Tuesday in solidarity
with former Tamil Nadu chief minister J. Jayalalitha, who was jailed
Saturday for corruption, will affect the box-office prospects of "Jeeva"
and "Madras", say trade experts.
Tamil Film Exhibitors Association have decided to keep a fast Tuesday and cancel shows in all theatres across the state.
"These
films will take a hit at the box-office because two evening shows in
all theatres across the state were cancelled after Jayalalitha was
convicted on Saturday. Tomorrow's complete shutdown of theatres will
come as a big blow," trade analyst Trinath told IANS.
"Both the
films had a very positive word-of-mouth at the box-office. 'Madras' in
particular was raved by everybody. The first three days of this week
were very crucial for these films as from Thursday (Oct 2) all the new
releases are coming out," he added.
Ram Charan-starrer Telugu film
"Govindudu Andarivadele" is slated for a Wednesday release, while "Bang
Bang", "Haider", "Yaan" and "Oru Oorla Rendu Raja" will come out
Thursday.
"With five new releases by Thursday, how can 'Madras'
and 'Jeeva' earn profits? Moreover, both these films had to compete for
screens with 'Aranmanai', which is a hit and has been going rock steady
at the box-office for two weeks," he added.
The decision to shutdown theatres has not gone down well with film buffs either.
Ashwin, who had to work on Friday, couldn't watch Karthi-starrer "Madras".
"It's
so irritating when they keep cancelling shows. I seriously don't
understand how cancelling film shows can change anything with regards to
what had happened to Jayalalitha," he said.
Viewers have been calling theatres ever news about shutdown came out.
"People
are under the impression that we've deliberately cancelled the shows.
Most of them are irritated because this is the second time in just a
matter of few days. We as theatre owners have to go in accordance with
the association," said a Chennai-based theatre owner.
Meanwhile,
Tamil Actors Union, Film Employees Federation of South India and Tamil
Nadu Film Director's Association are also likely to fast Tuesday here.
BY:- IANS
