Coronavirus scare is affecting the entertainment industry across the world and Tollywood is not immune to it. Already malls, multiplexes, and parks are wearing a deserted look. Producers, distributors, and exhibitors are suffering huge losses due to empty theatres.
The talk of the closure of theatres and canceling the shootings of upcoming entertainers for some time is scaring everyone. Meanwhile, Telangana Government ordered closure of malls, multiplexes, and educational institutions.
Now, it seems, Coronavirus is dividing Tollywood. Buzz is distributors are divided on the issue of closure of theatres. They feel that ten-day closure will affect the weekly releases. Already Nani's V scheduled for release on March 25 got postponed.
Analysts feel the big films scheduled for April release may also get postponed. However, if top stars films get postponed, it will also impact the release of small films. They are analyzing the effects of such drastic steps and after V's postponement, distributors say all other films releases should be postponed likewise in a sequence.
But sources say distributor Sudhakar Reddy is vehemently opposing the theatres' closure. He feels this may affect the business of Nithin's Bheeshma which is having a free run in the theatres. He feels that with only Bheeshma running successfully, he may get a good share with no competition in the theatres. The closure of theatres will have a chain reaction in Tollywood for sure.