Multiplex Association of India, several leading
filmmakers
have already urged the centre to consider reopening
cinema halls
. They have assured there will be a complete safe and hygienic experience for consumers. This has sparked a digital protest across India as #savecinema is trending on
Twitter since yesterday.
Theatres have remained shut since the coronavirus-induced lockdown across the nation. Now many have suggested cinema halls should be given a chance to function, especially when aviation, metro, malls, wellness and restaurants are being allowed to operate.
Filmmaker
Anshuman Pratyush who recently wrapped the shoot of his next ‘SOS Kolkata’ says its high times theatres across the nation should be allowed to reopen. “We can’t deny cinema halls have provided
entertainment
, spread love & happiness, reduced sorrow and put social issues into limelight for years. Several families have survived because of them. We can’t let them down now. The whole exhibition industry is also on the verge of collapsing. It’s high time that cinemas are allowed to reopen with necessary SOP’s,” said the ‘Panther’ fame filmmaker in an exclusive chat with ETimes.
This nationwide protest came after
the ministry of home affairs
has allowed open air theatres to resume operations from September 21 as part of the Unlock 4.0 guidelines. But, cinema halls, entertainment parks, and similar places will continue to remain closed. With this development, major multiplex chains are reportedly planning to invest in open air theatres that are reportedly coming up by the end of 2020 or early 2021. However, it seems the woes of traditional theatre owners will continue for the time being.
According to reports, India has lost almost 10%-12% of its screen count; that includes both independent and multiplex chains, amid the five-month shutdown that started in March.
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