8 Week OTT Rule In Tollywood, But Will It Happen?

Telugu cinema is currently undergoing a significant makeover in terms of theatrical and OTT watch preferences. In the meanwhile, Telugu Film chamber has come up with an interesting proposal to uphold the prospect of the theatrical screenings.

The Telugu film industry is moving towards a major change in its release system. At the Executive Committee meeting of the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce held today, members discussed making an eight week OTT window mandatory for all new Telugu films.

If this proposal is approved, every film released in theatres must wait at least eight weeks before streaming on any OTT platform. The idea behind this move is to protect theatrical revenue and give cinema halls a fair run.

In recent years, many films have arrived on digital platforms within four weeks of their theatrical release, affecting box office collections.

Industry insiders say producers and exhibitors have been concerned about the shrinking gap between theatre and OTT releases. Theatre owners believe that a fixed eight week window will encourage more audiences to watch films on the big screen instead of waiting for streaming.

However, the proposal is not yet final. The Chamber has decided to hold further consultations with the Producers Council and the Film Guild before making an official announcement.

Since OTT deals form a significant part of a film’s recovery model, producers are expected to share their views before a final decision is taken.

If implemented, this rule could bring a structured release pattern and change the way Telugu films plan their post theatrical business in the coming months.