'Thug Life' Release Doubtful In Karnataka, Despite Favourable SC Order: Report
Distributors in the state are reportedly wary of backing the film due to its poor box-office performance.
Despite a favourable order from the Supreme Court, the release of Kamal Haasan's Thug Life in Karnataka looks doubtful, according to a report by The Hindu. Due to the film's poor performance at the box office — the gangster drama has reportedly collected just over ₹ 47 crore after its 15-day run — distributors are hesitant to back the film.
A distributor from the state spoke to the publication about a lack of interest in the film.“Kuberaa, with a star cast of Dhanush, Nagarjuna Akkineni, and Rashmika Mandanna is slated for release this Friday. Apart from that, Aamir Khan’s highly anticipated Sitaare Zameen Par is hitting theatres this week. Distributors will prioritise new films. The verdict of Thug Life is known. No distributor will show interest in buying the movie," Aravind told The Hindu.
Days before the film's release on June 5, Haasan announced that the film would be released on Netflix, only eight weeks after its theatrical release, rather than the usual four-week window. However, following its performance at the box office, reports suggest that the streaming platform will reevaluate its decision. “The movie is likely to drop on OTT in the next two weeks. Distributors will have no benefit buying the film for such a short period,” Aravind told the publication.
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Thursday also asked the Karnataka Government to take action against those obstructing the screening of Thug Life in the State.
Earlier this week, the SC came down firmly in favour of artistic freedom, warning against mob interference in the release of films and instructing the Karnataka government to ensure the safe screening of Kamal Haasan’s Thug Life. “We cannot have mobs and vigilante groups take over our streets. Rule of law must prevail,” said Justice Ujjal Bhuyan, who headed the Vacation Bench alongside Justice Manmohan. The bench was hearing a plea filed by Bengaluru resident M. Mahesh Reddy, represented by advocate Athenam Velan, seeking protection for CBFC-certified screenings of the film in Karnataka.
Reacting to this order, the Deputy Chief Minister of the state, DK Shivakumar, urged protestors and theatre owners to facilitate a smooth release of the film. Reacting to the court order, Shivakumar reportedly said, "We have to abide by the Supreme Court order with honour. Everyone has limitations. I appeal to various organisations that we must have our limitations...I appeal to all the Kannada activists, please be calm, we should respect the court. No one should take law into their hands."
The Mani Ratnam gangster drama was banned in Karnataka following Haasan's remark about "Kannada being born out of Tamil."