After seven months of total blackout, theatres have reopened in several parts of India from yesterday. In March, nearly 10,000 Indian theatres were closed as part of coronavirus restrictions. Now, they have become one of the last few public places to reopen outside high-risk areas.
To minimise the danger of infections, seats have been separated. Show timings are staggered and digital payment encouraged. Masks and temperature checks are mandatory.
Several producers have so far refrained from lining up any big-ticket releases, with few pushing their films directly to streaming platforms, following the pandemic closures.
Although analysts point to pent-up demand for the big-screen experience among millions of cinema-crazy fans, it seems, many are not braving the trip just to watch old movies. As per reports, the footfall is said to be negligible across the country yesterday.
Given theatres re-opening is turning out to be utter flop, what is the next move of Tollywood and producers of other film industries? Apparently, they will wait for some more time.
In Vizag, few of the multiplexes screened old films such as Ala Vaikunthapurramloo, Sarileru Neekevvaru and Bheeshma from today.
“Ultimately, someone will have to take a chance and release an exciting film,” said an analyst. But, the question is who will take the risk?