In a dramatic legal turn, the Bombay High Court stepped in to halt the online release of ‘Bhool Chuk Maaf’ on May 10th temporarily preventing its arrival on streaming platforms. This move came after PVR Inox contested producer Maddock Films’ sudden decision to bypass theatres and opt for a direct-to-OTT release. The former has also sued the latter for Rs 60 crore in damages. Originally set for an eight-week theatrical run, the film was instead scheduled to premiere on Amazon Prime Video on May 16th, a shift Maddock Films attributed to heightened security measures across the country following major incidents such as the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor.
Maddock Films in partnership with Amazon MGM Studios had announced on May 8th that it would bring its “family entertainer” directly to viewers’ homes. However, PVR Inox swiftly opposed the decision arguing that the unexpected change undermined its efforts in promoting the film, reserving screens and selling tickets – actions that according to the court, contributed to its “reputation and goodwill”. Presiding over the matter, Justice Arif Doctor acknowledged PVR Inox’s concerns and issued an interim order mandating that Maddock Films adhere to the agreed-upon theatrical window before making the movie available on digital platforms.
With the next hearing set for June 16, Maddock Films has been instructed to submit its response to the court, leaving the fate of ‘Bhool Chuk Maaf’s’ release hanging in the balance.
