Independent film 'Pyre' gains 200 screenings after 'Ramayana' controversy
What's the story
Vinod Kapri, the director of the independent film Pyre, has announced that over 200 additional screenings of his movie will be added across India from Friday. The decision comes in response to audience demand and follows a recent controversy over reduced screenings due to competition from Ramayana: Rise of a Legend. Kapri took to social media to express his gratitude for this development.
Director's gratitude
Kapri thanked audiences and cinema chains in his post
Kapri tweeted, "Pyre is getting its shows back! Over 200 shows of Pyre are being added from Friday, 13th November."
He thanked audiences for their support and expressed his appreciation to cinema chains, Cinepolis and PVR Cinemas, for helping the film reach more viewers.
The director wrote, "Your love, trust and support have brought us back to more screens."
Screening challenges
Earlier, the filmmaker expressed disappointment over the situation
Kapri had earlier expressed disappointment over the reduced screenings of Pyre, despite a positive response from audiences.
In an interview with India Today, he revealed that the film started with around 80 screens but increased to nearly 355 theaters by its sixth day due to audience turnout.
However, its theatrical presence later dwindled to around 70-75 screens, even though nearly 90% of its shows were houseful.
International release
'Pyre's international release and awards
In addition to the new screenings, Pyre will also be released in the US and UK on December 11.
The film's team has submitted it for consideration at the Academy Awards and BAFTA.
It has reportedly earned over ₹2.5cr at the Indian box office and won more than 18 international awards following its festival run.