The highly anticipated Tamil film Devara, starring Jr. NTR and directed by Koratala Siva, is currently facing significant hurdles in securing a sufficient number of theaters in Tamil Nadu. This is primarily due to a lukewarm reception for its trailer, which has failed to generate the expected enthusiasm among Tamil audiences. The film’s content and execution have been criticized by many, raising concerns about its ability to attract viewers in a competitive market dominated by local films.
Adding to the controversy surrounding Devara is a recent allegation from renowned director S. Shankar. He has accused the film’s team of borrowing key scenes from his upcoming adaptation of the Tamil novel Velpari. Although Shankar did not explicitly name Devara or the other upcoming film Kanguva, many netizens speculate that his comments were directed at Devara. This allegation has sparked a heated debate online, with some defending Devara while others express concerns over potential copyright infringements. The situation has created a cloud of uncertainty over the film’s release strategy and public perception.
Meanwhile, Karthi’s film Meiyazhagan is also set for release in Tamil Nadu. Despite running low on buzz, Meiyazhagan enjoys a significant fan base in the state compared to Jr. NTR, ensuring a greater demand for theaters. Interestingly, distributors in Tamil Nadu have expressed a preference for Meiyazhagan over Devara, further limiting the number of screens available for Devara. This poses a major challenge for the film’s success in the state.
The absence of Devara’s producer from promotional activities has added to the speculation surrounding the project’s stability. This lack of visibility may contribute to doubts regarding the film’s marketing effectiveness and its ability to draw audiences into theaters. As the release date approaches, it is crucial for the filmmakers to address these issues effectively to maximize their chances of success at the box office.
