A leading exhibitor-turned-distributor urged director-turned producer Puri Jagannadh and his co-producer Charmme Kaur to be more responsible if they have to make more films. “If they don’t change themselves, they will find it hard to release their films,” says the distributor who adds, “I am forced to say this because I wish they make more films and already they are facing a lot of issues with distributors,” he adds. With their latest release ‘Double iSmart’ also tanking at the box office and now they have to compensate distributor Niranjan Reddy since he has lost heavily.
“Earlier, it was distributor Warangal Srinu who lost a big chunk of money by distributing ‘Liger’ and payments issues are still pending even after two years. Now, Niranjan Reddy could also raise the banner of revolt along with other distributors who suffered big losses with ‘Double iSmart’ which is doing badly at the box office and going to fall short of expected collections. In fact, they have to cough up Rs 15 crore plus to resolve their dues and move on,” he points out.
He admits that both the films ‘Liger’ and ‘Double iSmart’ were sold mostly on ‘Non Refundable Advances’ or “Minimum Guarantee’ basis and producer is not technically entitled to return any money, “But Puri and Charmme have to be more responsible and keep their word. I wish they would resolve their dues much faster and dish out more films in the two Telugu states, otherwise, it will be tough,’ he concludes.
