New Delhi: Small-to-medium budget southern language films are fast lining up for direct-to-digital launch as the second covid wave keeps theatres shut, outnumbering the number of Hindi films under negotiation. Meanwhile, the only Hindi film to have confirmed a release on over the top (OTT) platforms this year is Priyadarshan directed comedy Hungama 2. “There is no doubt the southern industries were the first to take advantage of theatre reopening earlier this year when they even managed returns in niche, focused markets. But the prevailing uncertainty around re-opening of theatres and audiences returning to cinemas is hitting them now and they are scrambling for digital premieres. “They were pretty confident of bringing films out around January when most Hindi filmmakers were holding back.

Source: Mint June 04, 2021 06:33 UTC