The Tamil Film Producers Council (TFPC) has announced significant changes affecting the Tamil film industry, including a halt on new film projects starting August 16 and a complete suspension of all film-related work from November 1. This move aims to address issues of backlog and rising production costs.
During a recent meeting in Chennai, key industry stakeholders, including representatives from the Tamil Film Producers Council, Tamil Film Producers’ Association, Tamil Nadu Theatre Owners Association, Tamil Nadu Theatre Multiplex Owners Association, and Tamil Nadu Film Distributors’ Association, discussed several pressing issues. The resolutions passed during the meeting reflect a strategic effort to streamline production processes and manage financial concerns within the industry.
Halt on New Projects and Film-Related Activities
The TFPC’s decision to halt new film projects from August 16 is intended to alleviate congestion caused by numerous films awaiting release and to control escalating production costs. Producers are now required to submit official notifications to the TFPC detailing their ongoing projects. The council has set a deadline of October 30 for the completion of work-in-progress projects.
From November 1, the TFPC will implement a complete suspension of all film-related activities, including shooting. This measure is designed to address financial imbalances and regulate expenditures related to actors’ salaries and other production costs.
Addressing Issues with Actors and Technicians
A key resolution from the meeting involves ensuring that actors and technicians complete projects for which they have received advances before moving on to new ones. The TFPC specifically highlighted the case of actor Dhanush, who has been accused by Sri Thenandal Films of taking an advance without fulfilling his shooting commitments. The council has advised producers to consult with the Tamil Film Producers Association before hiring Dhanush for new projects.
OTT Release Timelines
To protect the theatrical business of big-budget films, the TFPC has decided that films featuring leading stars will have their OTT releases delayed by 8 weeks after their theatrical run. This resolution aims to ensure that such films maintain a strong box office presence before transitioning to digital platforms.
Formation of Joint Action Committee
To address industry-wide issues more effectively, a Joint Action Committee (JAC) has been established. This committee, comprising producers, distributors, and theatre owners, will work on finding solutions to the challenges facing the Tamil film industry.
Sources By Agencies
