The advance bookings for the highly awaited courtroom comedy, Jolly LLB 3, were running smoothly until Wednesday evening, when a major crisis hit. In a shocking move, PVR-Inox, one of India’s biggest multiplex chains, suddenly removed all showtimes for the film from its platforms, leaving fans of Akshay Kumar and Arshad Warsi confused.
The issue was a serious disagreement between the film’s producers, Viacom 18, and PVR-Inox over Virtual Print Fees (VPF). However, in a major relief for everyone, the issue has now been fully resolved as of Thursday morning.
What Exactly Went Wrong?
According to an inside source, Viacom 18 had a clear agreement with multiplex chains that they would not have to pay VPF for their films. This agreement has been followed for several years. However, in a last-minute twist, PVR-Inox allegedly demanded a massive Rs. 3.50 crore from the producers of Jolly LLB 3.
When the producers rightly refused to pay, pointing to their existing contract, the multiplex chain reportedly threatened to stop the film’s release across all its properties. This put the producers in a very tough spot just 48 hours before the film was supposed to hit the big screen.
An Unfair Tactic?
The source also highlighted how this last-minute demand felt like an unfair pressure tactic. For years, producers have argued that VPF is an unjust charge, especially when Hollywood films are often not required to pay it. Why should Indian films face this huge cost?
The main question being asked was about the timing. PVR-Inox was aware of the no-VPF agreement with Viacom 18 all along. So, why bring up this demand just two days before the release, after advance bookings had already begun? The move was seen as an attempt to corner the producers when they were most vulnerable.
Update: Dispute Resolved, Bookings Are Back!
In the latest development, the standoff is officially over. Both parties have resolved the issue, and PVR-Inox has agreed to stick to the original contract, waiving the VPF. The showtimes for Jolly LLB 3 are now back online on booking platforms, and advance sales have resumed at all PVR-Inox properties.
While the crisis has been averted, the fact remains that the film’s advance bookings were stalled for nearly 12 hours during a crucial pre-release period. This disruption was a significant and unnecessary hurdle for the film, but thankfully, it’s all systems go for its grand release.
About Jolly LLB 3
Jolly LLB 3 is the third installment in the popular courtroom comedy franchise. Directed by Subhash Kapoor, the film brings back Akshay Kumar and Arshad Warsi to face off in court, with Huma Qureshi also playing a key role. It is produced by Star Studios and Viacom 18.
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