High-profile Mohanlal starrers that were earlier said to have an OTT release would now be released in the theatres. This is good news not only for the Mohanlal fans but also for the state government. These movies are expected to rake in at least Rs 35 crore as entertainment tax for the government.
Besides, around Rs 15 crore too would reach the state coffers as share to the cultural benevolence fund.
Rs 3 is charged per ticket for the benevolence fund. The initial estimate is that these movies would make a joint collection of around Rs 350–375 crore. If these movies are grand successes, then the government’s shares too would proportionately go up. Moreover, the crowded theatres would provide an impetus to other related business too.
Earlier, five movies of Mohanlal were slated for OTT release. Priyadarshan’s Marakkar: Arabikadalinte Simham, Bro Daddy directed by Prithviraj, Jeethu Joseph’s Twelfth Man and Shaji Kailas’ Alone were those movies. However, the producers repealed their decision to release them in OTT following discussions with the government. Meanwhile, it has been confirmed that Marakkar would hit the screens on December 2.
The theatre owners hope that the government would announce more relaxations regarding the number of audiences inside the cinema halls as the COVID-19 cases have been showing a downward trend. Currently, audience are allowed only on 50 percent of seats. The government might soon allow audience in 75% seats.
Getting back to normalcy
Meanwhile, theatres are showing signs of recovery after the grand opening of Dulquer Salman-starrer Kurup.
The crime-thriller that was released on November 12 in over 1500 screens across the world, had a massive opening.
As per the reports, Kurup has made a total gross collection of Rs. 7.15 Crore, from the all-India box office on its Day 1.
Furthermore, the Dulquer Salmaan starrer has earned a total gross collection of Rs. 6.77 Crore from the UAE box office on Day 1. Thus, Kurup has emerged as the all-time biggest opener at the UAE box office, so far.
The movie, which was the first major release from Mollywood after the theatres reopened in Kerala is expected to cross the 40-Crore mark and industry experts hope that the film will bring back the theatre viewing experience with everything coming back to normalcy post the pandemic situation.
