Can a Gujarati film command a record breaking digital rights deal from a global streaming giant? The answer is yes, and Vash Level 2 has just proven it. Netflix has paid a whopping Rs 3.50 crores for the digital rights of Vash Level 2 and its Hindi dubbed version Vash Vivash Level 2. This marks the highest price ever paid to a Gujarati film by an OTT platform, setting a historic precedent for regional cinema.
The Gujarati film and its Hindi version were released on Netflix on October 22, marking a significant move as it is rare for the streaming giant to pick up a Gujarati film. The decision to pay such a premium amount reflects Netflix’s confidence in the content and its potential to attract a wide audience both within and beyond the Gujarati diaspora.
Why Netflix Paid The Record Amount
Industry sources reveal that multiple factors contributed to Netflix’s decision to pay the unprecedented amount. First, Vash Level 2 is very well made and was well received by audiences during its theatrical release. The makers had dubbed the film in Hindi, which also found its way into cinemas, giving even non Gujarati audiences an opportunity to enjoy the story. This bilingual approach significantly expanded the film’s potential viewership.
Second, the film belongs to the supernatural genre, which has a lot of takers globally. The universal appeal of horror and supernatural content makes it an attractive proposition for streaming platforms looking to cater to diverse international audiences. Third, the Vash series has become famous among moviegoers, especially after the much loved 2024 Hindi film Shaitaan starring Ajay Devgn, R Madhavan, and Jyothika turned out to be a remake of the first part released in 2023.
National Award Recognition Adds Value
Another significant factor in the deal is that Vash recently won the Best Gujarati Feature Film Award at the 71st National Awards. Additionally, actress Janki Bodiwala won the Best Actress in a Supporting Role for her performance in the film. Janki also played the same role in Shaitaan and has become recognizable to Hindi film audiences. All these factors prompted Netflix to go against the norm and pay the record amount.
The Deal Terms And Industry Impact
As per the deal, Netflix will stream the film for three and a half years. Moreover, Netflix will be the only platform where both versions will be available exclusively for one year. After that period, the makers will have the freedom to stream their film on other platforms as well.
A prominent producer revealed that this is a proud moment for Gujarati cinema. Earlier, Gujarati films used to be paid on a viewership basis and earned less than a crore through such arrangements. If the film gets sufficient views, it will encourage Netflix and other platforms to buy rights of other Gujarati films at handsome prices.
About Vash Level 2
Vash Level 2 is a supernatural thriller that serves as the second installment in the Vash series. The film stars Janki Bodiwala and is directed by the same team that created the first part. Both the Gujarati original and Hindi dubbed version are now streaming on Netflix.
(Also read: Mirzapur The Film Completes Major Banaras Schedule: Pankaj Tripathi, Ali Fazal, Shweta Tripathi Head To Mumbai )
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