Filmmakers look to de-risk projects, sign OTT deals as box office bombs

According to media reports, actor Aamir Khan has decided to sell his films to OTTs only after theatrical release

- Lata Jha

Filmmakers are increasingly signing pacts to release films on streaming platforms before they hit the theatres, as they seek to de-risk their projects at a time audiences have soured on movie-going.

Producers have also faced criticism for mentioning the streaming partner in the marketing and publicity of the said film, which many say, takes away from the need to go to the cinemas as the movie would soon be available for home-viewing.

There are some exceptions, though. According to media reports, actor Aamir Khan has decided to sell his films to OTT platforms only after theatrical release, but industry experts say that few can afford such a move as deals with streaming companies often act as seed funding when the project goes on floors. Most producers would not be able to start shoots before the deals are in place.