The upcoming Telugu superhero film “Hanu-Man” has generated significant buzz, with its flashy visuals and intriguing premise capturing the imagination of audiences. However, despite a well-executed promotional campaign and the presence of megastar Chiranjeevi at the pre-release event, the film has faced an unexpected hurdle: limited theatre allocation.
In Hyderabad, the film has secured only four single-screen theatres, with two of them belonging to the distribution company that acquired the rights. In Vizag, the situation is similar, with reports suggesting only two single screens allotted to “Hanu-Man.”
Industry experts attribute this limited allocation to simple business logic. When faced with a choice between a film featuring a proven star hero with a track record of box office success and a relatively untested venture like “Hanu-Man,” most theatre owners prioritize the former. After all, their primary objective is to maximize profits, and established stars often guarantee a safer bet.
This prioritization of financial security over artistic merit has sparked debate, with some criticizing the theatre owners for stifling new talent and innovative concepts. However, others argue that businesses have a responsibility to their investors and need to make decisions that ensure profitability. Ultimately, the blame cannot be solely placed on theatre owners; filmmakers also share some responsibility.
Experts suggest that film producers should be more proactive in securing theatre bookings well in advance of the release date. By finalizing distribution deals and reaching agreements with exhibitors early on, filmmakers can avoid last-minute scramble and potentially secure better slots for their films.
In the case of “Hanu-Man,” discussions about theatre allotment reportedly began only on January 7-8, just days before the film’s premiere on January 11 and official release on January 12. Such a late scramble for screens leaves little room for negotiation and inevitably puts the film at a disadvantage.
While “Hanu-Man” may face an uphill battle due to limited theatre availability, its unique superhero theme and promising visuals have generated positive anticipation among audiences. Whether the film manages to overcome the business hurdles and achieve box office success remains to be seen. However, the situation surrounding its release highlights the complex interplay between artistic merit, commercial viability, and the realities of the film industry.
It is important to note that while business considerations play a crucial role in the film industry, there are also instances where smaller films with fresh concepts manage to find success. Word-of-mouth recommendations and positive critical reception can sometimes trump star power and established formulas. Ultimately, the fate of “Hanu-Man” will depend on its ability to connect with audiences, regardless of the number of screens it occupies.
