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Director Sanal Kumar Sasidharan’s decision to release Tovino Thomas-starrer ‘Vazhakku’ online amid a dispute with the actor has sparked backlash from the film fraternity and film buffs. Many questioned the director’s intention to share the film online for free, especially since the film was a co-production of Tovino and a couple of others. The film was reportedly made on a budget of Rs 27 lakh. The director’s action has also sparked discussions about the legitimate ownership of the film and the ethics of releasing a film without the producer’s permission.
According to Kerala Film Chamber general secretary Saji Nanthiyattu, a producer is always the rightful owner of the film, which is registered with the Kerala Film Chamber. He also maintained that the producer must be a registered member of the chamber, which functions as an apex body representing various other film industry associations and their interests.
“As I understand it, Tovino had approached us recently about membership,” he said. According to Saji, the film director risks losing a lot financially if the producer decides to sue him for the unauthorized release of the film. “The director has taken a big risk by releasing the film on a public platform. There is a possibility that he is really upset or has some document that protects him,” he said.
Saji added that the move will affect any chance of the film releasing in theatres, as the Film Exhibitors United Organization of Kerala (FEUOK) is extremely particular about not airing films that are released elsewhere. “We will have to wait and see what course of action should be taken in the coming days,” he said.
Producer G Suresh Kumar of the Kerala Film Chamber also criticized director Sanal Kumar’s decision, although he said he could only comment on the issue after speaking to Tovino Thomas, who financed and acted in the film.