Tamil Film Producers Council president and Nadigar Sangam’s secretary Vishal on Wednesday promised transparency in the affairs of the film industry even as he unveiled a fresh set of initiatives following the successful conclusion of the tripartite talks that have brought to an end the more than a month-long strike.
Maximum price of ₹150
Addressing the media a day after the long-drawn-out negotiations among producers, theatre owners and digital service providers, which were chaired by the State government, Mr. Vishal said, “The State government has agreed to pass a G.O. for flexible pricing and computerisation of tickets from June 1. We have asked for three slabs (ticket prices) with a maximum of ₹150.”
He said that a deal had been struck with the digital cinema service providers, who would reduce ‘Virtual Print Fee’ for theatres that had installed E-cinema projectors by half. “The rates for D-cinema projectors will be negotiated over the next six months,” he said.
Mr. Vishal said TFPC will create a Tamil film release calendar that would prevent crowding of films and give space for smaller films.
“Initially, we will slot until May. We will not allow producers to jump the queue. Smaller films will get a minimum number of screens on a Friday. After that it is up to the film to do well,” he said.
According to the plan, the slots will be given on the basis of date of film completion, certification and the budget [of the film].
The TFPC has also sought the State government’s help to set an upper limit for ‘booking charges’ charged by ticketing companies.
With the end of the strike, both release and shooting will resume from Friday.
