Film Rivalry Turns Ugly: Online Attacks Erupt Over Release Dates

Sivakarthikeyan's film 'Parasakthi,' released on January 10, has become the target of a coordinated online smear campaign. Producer Dev Ramnath publicly denounced the negativity, accusing fans of rival film 'Jana Nayagan' of deliberately lowering ratings and spreading misinformation. Ramnath detailed the extensive efforts to get 'Parasakthi' certified, highlighting that it received clearance less than 18 hours before its premiere.

Ramnath expressed frustration, stating that the competition had devolved into sabotage, including the use of outdated video clips and disruptive political slogans in theaters. He noted that similar tactics were allegedly employed against another major film last year, calling the situation unhealthy for the Tamil film industry. 'Parasakthi' itself celebrates a significant student movement.

Adding to the pre-Pongal release tensions, the Madras High Court has postponed the case concerning Vijay's 'Jana Nayagan' to January 21, after the holidays. This decision came after the court stayed a single judge's order for 'Jana Nayagan' to receive a UA Certificate. 'Jana Nayagan' is noted as Vijay's final film before his political entry.