For the past few years, the OTT market has become very crucial for Tollywood, with the recovery of many films solely dependent on post-theatrical streaming deals. A criticism also emerged online that movies were being made with little effort because OTT deals were saving the day.
But OTTs have quickly realized that the higher amounts they are paying are not worth it. With streaming platforms slashing their budgets, several medium-range films have taken a hit. Big-ticket entertainers have also started to face the heat now, with OTTs not willing to offer beyond a certain amount, considering viability.
This comes as a huge blow to certain projects that are being made on whopping budgets. The figures expected by producers are far higher than what OTTs are actually offering, widening the gap. Furthermore, the deals are tied to the films’ box-office performance.
If this continues, producers will have no option but to rely mostly on theatrical business for recovery. A section of netizens feels that OTTs are indeed doing the right thing, as the move will shift the industry’s focus towards making quality films in controlled budgets without resorting to shortcuts.