'Deewaniyat' makers accuse PVR INOX of bias amid 'Thamma' clash
What's the story
Bollywood films Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat and Thamma are set to clash on October 21, with PVR Inox distributing both the movies. Ahead of their release, the team behind Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat has accused PVR Inox of not giving their film a fair opportunity. India Today, citing sources, reported that PVR Inox is "colluding with its exhibition wing to block out Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat."
Allegations
The controversy revolves around advance bookings
The controversy stems from advance bookings, as Thamma reportedly received more screens and show slots than Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat, which has fewer options. Typically, multiplexes allocate one screen per film for advance bookings over four days, but PVR Inox has reportedly made an exception for Thamma.
Producer's statement
'Regrettable that...': Anshul Garg on the situation
Anshul Garg, producer of Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat, told the outlet, "In an era where widespread reliance on streaming platforms for financing is prevalent, we have elected to pursue the theatrical route." "Despite delivering four commercially successful songs and a highly promising film, it is indeed regrettable that Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat is not receiving equitable consideration in cinemas."
Legal options
Makers of 'Singham Again' took this step last year
This isn't the first time such allegations have emerged. A similar situation occurred last year when Singham Again (also distributed by PVR Inox) clashed with Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3. The issue was reportedly resolved after Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3's team filed a complaint with the Competition Commission of India (CCI). Now, Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat makers are also considering approaching CCI for "unfair treatment." Meanwhile, PVR Inox has denied all claims.
Response
PVR Inox defends itselfÂ
PVR Inox Pictures CEO Kamal Gianchandani told India Today, "Not true at all. PVR INOX Pictures is handling very few territories of 'Thamma' as a distributor. The major territories are being distributed by Maddock directly." "PVR INOX Cinemas is treating both films purely on merit in terms of showcasing. We would love to see both films flourish at the box office."
Film details
Meanwhile, here's more about the two films
Directed by Milap Zaveri, Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat stars Sonam Bajwa and Harshvardhan Rane. The movie follows the story of Adaa Randhawa and Vikramaditya, played by Bajwa and Rane, respectively. Thamma, produced by Dinesh Vijan, stars Ayushmann Khurrana, Rashmika Mandanna, Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Paresh Rawal. Directed by Aditya Sarpotdar, the movie follows Khurrana's Alok, a Delhi-based journalist who accidentally stumbles upon a different world of vampires.