On August 10, it was reported that PVR Inox Pictures, the distributors of Batwara 1947, requested all showtimes in single-screen theaters. This situation complicated matters for theater owners since Awarapan 2 is also set to release on August 14. Initially, the distributors of Batwara 1947 wanted seven shows a day in two-screen venues, 10 shows in three-screen multiplexes, 12 in four-screen cinemas, and 15 in five-screen multiplexes. However, recent updates indicate a change in their stance.
A source from the exhibition industry mentioned that the previous requirement for 60% to 70% of shows to be given to Batwara 1947 has been revised. Now, they have agreed to a 50-50 arrangement for both films, taking into account the concerns of the exhibitors.
This new 50-50 deal is expected to apply to single-screen cinemas as well, although many single-screen theaters are still in the process of reopening bookings. One notable exception is the famous Raj Mandir Cinema in Jaipur, which has allocated two shows each to Awarapan 2 and Batwara 1947.
Meanwhile, theater owners are now facing new pressure from another film. The distributors of Spider-Man: Brand New Day recently contacted cinemas, requesting that it continue to be shown extensively. They have specified a minimum of two daily screenings in single-screen venues, with rising demands for more shows as the number of screens increases. For example, they want at least three daily screenings in two-screen theaters and up to 12 shows in larger multiplexes.
With Spider-Man: Brand New Day performing well at the box office—reportedly making around Rs. 9 crores recently—distributors feel confident in their requests. However, this leaves exhibitors in a tough spot, trying to balance showing all three films without upsetting any distributors.
An exhibitor from Nawalgarh, speaking anonymously, expressed frustration over the ongoing struggle to allocate shows fairly among distributors. “We always face this issue while hoping to keep everyone satisfied. It makes us wonder when this situation will come to an end,” they shared.
