Tamil Nadu Film Body Fights 8-Week OTT Delay for New Releases

The Tamil Film Producers Council (TFPC) is actively addressing critical industry concerns, particularly the contentious issue of Over-The-Top (OTT) release timelines. Theatre owners have recently stipulated that films must wait 8 weeks post-theatrical release before becoming available on OTT platforms. This proposal has met strong opposition from producers who argue it unfairly impacts their business and investment recovery, as current industry practice allows for a 4-week window.

To tackle this challenge, TFPC has announced a pivotal meeting on May 10, 2026. This assembly will include producers from Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Kerala, signaling a united front across South Indian cinema. Should the deadlock persist, there is a serious possibility of producers ceasing film releases across these four states from a specified date, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

Beyond the OTT dispute, TFPC is also advocating for a revenue-sharing model. This proposal suggests that actors and technicians receive a share of film profits rather than fixed high salaries, aiming for a more equitable distribution of financial risk and reward. A token strike is planned for May 2, 2026, to amplify these demands. The council has also issued a stern warning: any producer who signs OTT agreements without council notification will not receive industry backing.