Even though the government has permitted the big screens to reopen, it seems that it will take some more time for the exhibitors to resume their operations.
In addition to the lack of ready-to-release big movies, the Covid-19 enacted a provision to allow spectators in only half the seats, and theatre owners are dissatisfied with the ticket prices recently set by the state government.
Exhibitors say that it may take another month or so for the theatres to reopen and the operations may start after Vinayaka Chaturthi.
Although some films like ‘Love Story’, ‘Virata Parvam’ are ready for release, industry sources say that producers are waiting for the right time to release them. The government has allowed all shows in Telangana, but Andhra Pradesh has permitted only three shows as the curfew is in force from 10 pm.
Exhibitors say the theatres are likely to reopen only after representatives of producers, distributors and exhibitors’ associations discuss with the government and come to a resolution on ticket prices.
“Theaters have not been open for about a year. Property tax and minimum electricity charges must be paid. Staff should be paid salaries. In such a situation, it will be difficult to run the big screens with reduced ticket prices,” said Srinivasa Rao, an exhibitor from Kakinada.