Thug Life To Stream On Netflix From July First Week

The highly anticipated film Thug Life, starring Kamal Haasan and directed by Mani Ratnam, is set to premiere on Netflix in just four weeks. The decision to release the film early on OTT was made after its lackluster performance at the box office. Initially, the makers had planned an eight-week digital window, but Netflix's negotiations led to a shortened window.

The negotiations for Thug Life's OTT release began after Netflix agreed to lower its price from ₹130cr to ₹110cr. This decision has led to a breach of contract between the producers and distributors in North India, who adhere to an eight-week window norm. As a result, the producers have been fined ₹25L, which is equivalent to their theatrical share from Hindi.

The penalty imposed by national multiplex chains in North India is a result of the breach of contract. The industry norm in North India is to strictly follow an eight-week window, and Thug Life's early OTT release has gone against this norm. This is not the first time that producers have gone back on their commitment to an eight-week OTT window, with Indian 2 also seeing a breach of contract.

The early OTT release of Thug Life may have implications for future releases, with multiplex players pushing for adherence to the eight-week window. The fine imposed on the producers serves as a warning to other filmmakers who may consider breaching the contract. Despite the controversy, Thug Life's OTT premiere is expected to attract a large audience, given the film's star-studded cast and Mani Ratnam's direction.