While many Kollywood personalities whom we contacted chose to not speak on this issue, a few agreed but on a condition of anonymity. Given that the government has clearly stated that it has not banned the film or stopped anyone from screening it, many in the industry do not know whom to blame, unlike during the Vishwaroopam episode.
Industry insiders express concern at these last-minute hold-ups which could result in huge revenue losses, not just for the producer but for the industry in general. “While the film’s team is trying hard to remove pirated links online, I heard that pirated DVDs of Thalaivaa are already available across Tamil Nadu for Rs 60. And, imagine if some local cable operators choose to show the film on their channels?” laments an insider.
A producer says that until the industry gets together and presents a united front, it will have to face such situations. “We are currently helpless despite having so many bodies to look after filmmakers. This is because many of these bodies are involved in internal power struggle (the Tamil Film Producers’ Council, for example) and also because of the political affiliations of some of the members,” he says.
Many opine that from now on playing it safe is the only option for filmmakers. “Do not make a film that has anything to do with religion, caste, politics or anything that can in anyway offend anyone is the message we have to take home from these episodes,” remarks a director.
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