Controversy erupts as director Sanal Kumar Sasidharan releases ‘Vazhakku’ online for free

The film 'Vazhakku,' directed by Sanal Kumar Sasidharan, has become a focal point of online debate following its unexpected free release on the internet. Amidst a prolonged controversy over the film's delayed theatrical release, the director took to his official Facebook handle to share the movie link, sparking a wave of reactions from netizens.

The delay in 'Vazhakku's' theatrical release was previously attributed to multiple factors, including accusations by Sanal Kumar Sasidharan against the lead actor, Tovino Thomas.The director claimed that Tovino Thomas was responsible for the postponement, among other cited reasons. This recent move to release the film online has now raised questions regarding Sasidharan's motives and the broader implications for the film's stakeholders.

Netizens expressed mixed reactions to the online release. One comment sarcastically remarked, "Director uploading his own movies," while others questioned the legality and ethics of the decision, given that the film's funding reportedly came from various investors. A concerned comment highlighted, “Came to know that money for this movie was spent by other people. It became very bad that they released this way without their consent.”
However, not all feedback was negative. Some viewers praised the film's quality, with comments like, “I watched it as a as a great film,” and appreciation for its technical aspects, particularly the single-shot sequence.
The film, produced on a budget of Rs 27 lakh, has now sparked discussions about ownership rights and the ethics of releasing a film without the producer's permission.
According to Onmanorama, Kerala Film Chamber general secretary Saji Nanthiyattu emphasized that the producer is the rightful owner of the movie, as registered under the Kerala Film Chamber. He noted that Tovino Thomas had recently approached the chamber about membership, underscoring the formal procedures typically involved in film ownership and release rights.
Saji Nanthiyattu further commented on the potential aftereffects for Sanalkumar Sasidharan. He mentioned that the director might face significant financial losses if the producer decides to pursue legal action over the unauthorized release. He stated that the director has taken a huge risk by posting the movie on a public platform.