The outbreak of Covid-19 has forced lockdown or movement control measures in many countries globally. India has imposed a nationwide lockdown. As a result, many economic sectors have been affected, including the highly profitable entertainment industry.

It's been over two months since the shootings and theatrical releases have been halted indefinitely. As a result, the film industry is expected to experience massive losses this year.

To cushion the blow from the lockdown, one of the finest filmmakers of Kollywood Mani Ratnam has stated his ideas in the recent SICCI webinar series discussion the topic, 'The Future of Movies and Entertainment'.

According to India Today, Mani Ratnam said, "The fact that the immediate theatre release is going to get difficult, the market is going to get eroded, means that I have to make sure the cost of my film is brought down."

He suggested that 'people involved especially big stars and technicians will have to understand and help in reducing the price, reducing the cost, and work towards making sure the film industry remains afloat'.

Mani Ratnam expressed that Kollywood is an industry that isn’t just simple entertainment.

"We do so much more. We give dreams to people, make them smile, it takes a lot of time for people who invest in this… The film industry also requires support from the government. Hoping we will be back on our feet soon,” he added.

His upcoming project 'Ponniyin Selvan' is expected to be shot in one schedule right after the lockdown. The director is reportedly securing the dates of the stars for the shooting. The ambitious film stars Aishwarya Rai, Chiyaan Vikram, Karthi Jayaram, Trisha, Jayam Ravi, Sobhita Dhulipala, Aishwarya Lekshmi, and many others.

Source: India Today
Photo Credit: CineJosh & Indiaglitz