With actor-turned-Chief Minister Vijay at the helm in Tamil Nadu, various actors from the film industry have come together to congratulate him and raise key concerns. An example of such an association is the Tamil Nadu Theater Owners and Multiplex Theater Owners Association, which has recently submitted its list of demands to the chief minister of its state. These demands of theater associations are to streamline their work process and make the whole process easier for them and the audience, improving the overall audience experience.
Simplifying regulation and reducing operational issues
According to the report published by One India, the main demands made by these theater owners is to create a single window clearance process within two weeks with the cooperation of the district authorities to shift and construct the multiplexes. Apart from this, the theater owners requested that the licenses for their theaters should be for three years, and they no longer need any project operator license as all the theaters are now digital. Another point to be mentioned is that local entertainment tax for Tamil films should be exempted so that the cost of tickets can be brought down thereby increasing audience participation.
Standardize ticket prices and promote innovation
Another important point of discussion was around tickets. The theater owners have proposed a limit of Rs 450 for a large format premium screen and Rs 300 for a normal theatre. The multiplex owners have also demanded that the price be increased from Rs 188 to Rs 200 so that they can increase their expenses. Besides, the theater owners sought financial assistance to pay the electricity bill, slab benefits for the MSME category of theaters and financial assistance for the Chennai International Film Festival. Additionally, theater owners stated that allowing theaters to host other activities during intermission, such as sports performances, live stand-up shows, corporate events, video conferencing, and educational programs, would help sustain theaters in the long run.
Tamil Nadu theater owners want it CM Vijay would take policies in favor of cinema
Since CM Vijay is part of the film industry, theater owners are optimistic that he will empathize with their plight. The demands presented by the theater owners are intended to modernize the operation of the theater, ease financial burdens and increase audience participation. The presentation of the 10-point letter, which includes important aspects such as setting standard ticket rates, no taxes, ease of permits and longer use of theatres, represents an attempt by the industry to work together with the government.
