With Indian Premier League (IPL) matches being shifted out of the country, film producers are optimistic of recovering 10-20 per cent of revenue as cinemas are expecting better occupancy especially for evening and night shows.
"Now this has become a routine for us. Every year, we postpone some of the releases due to IPL, exams or elections. But the shifting of the tournament may give a chance to films to make money. Not many big-budget films are expected to be released during IPL," says film producer K C Bokadia, adding that elections are a major worry for the industry.
Film critic Komal Nahata is quite optimistic with the difference in time zone if IPL is shifted to England or South Africa.
"I don't see POL matches being given any less attention for the fact of it being shifted to another country. Viewers will still enjoy the match on TV. However, due to time zone difference, evening and late night shows in theatres have better prospects over morning and afternoon shows, he adds."
Another film critic Taran Adarsh says that the new development may provide Bollywood a sigh of relief.
"IPL shifting to a foreign land might provide little respite to Bollywood releases from bombing at Box Office, since a viewer would prefer watching cricket matches for free on TV. The excitement level will be much more in the case of matches. Besides, no big release is expected during IPL season," he says.
Taking a cue from the last season of IPL, cinema multiplexes are also gearing up to tap a share in profits by making special offers and screening matches 'Live' in theatres.
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Vishal Kapoor, CEO, Fun Cinemas, says, "We have still not finalised any special schemes during IPL. IPL is a big event and even if we offer buy 1 get 1 free ticket scheme to audiences, still IPL will beat films."
However, he adds, "If a scheme of telecasting matches on the screen is done, then some revenue may be expected. With no major film being released during IPL season, it is likely that audiences will prefer watching matches at home."
Some of the Bollywood releases which are expected to be released in the months of April and May are Nagesh Kukunoor's "8/10 Tasveer," "Shortcut - the Con is On," "Jashn," Subhash Ghai's "Paying Guest" and Yash Chopra's "New York."