26th June 2023, Mumbai: Renowned director Sudipto Sen is reportedly facing challenges in securing a favourable deal with prominent over-the-top (OTT) platforms for the streaming release of his latest film, “The Kerala Story,” despite its massive box office success. While the film is rumoured to have earned over Rs 200 crore, Sudipto claims that they have not received any suitable offers from major OTT platforms.
In a recent statement, Sudipto dismissed reports suggesting that the film was ready for streaming, calling them “fake news.” He expressed that his team is still waiting for a workable deal with any of the main OTT platforms. The director voiced his belief that the film industry has conspired against him and his team, indicating that their success at the box office has irked certain factions within the entertainment industry.
According to an insider source quoted by an entertainment portal, the subject and theme of “The Kerala Story” have seemingly provoked a specific segment of the audience. The source suggested that the reluctance of major OTT platforms to acquire the film stems from its perceived association with propaganda, leading them to shy away from potential political controversies. The source added that OTT platforms typically prioritise intelligent, thought-provoking, and entertaining content, and in this context, “The Kerala Story” does not fit into those genres.
The Kerala Story, starring the talented Adah Sharma, has garnered attention for its box office success, but its path to OTT streaming appears to be impeded by the alleged conspiracy and reservations surrounding its content. As the film industry continues to evolve, discussions surrounding the intersection of politics, entertainment, and streaming platforms are likely to persist, emphasising the need for diverse and engaging content that caters to different audience sensibilities.
While Sudipto Sen and his team remain optimistic about securing a suitable OTT deal for “The Kerala Story,” the challenges they face underscore the complexities and nuances involved in distributing films across various platforms in today’s ever-evolving entertainment landscape.
As fans eagerly await the film’s availability on OTT platforms, it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold and whether “The Kerala Story” will find a streaming home that aligns with the director’s vision and the aspirations of its large and diverse audience.
By: Tanya Chantola