Two days after the release of Nitesh Tiwari's 'Ramayana: Part 1', National Award-winning filmmaker Vinod Kapri shared a video on X alleging that screenings of his independent Hindi film 'Pyre' had been sharply reduced after theatre owners and distributors were instructed to prioritise a particular film, even if other screens remained vacant.
Kapri raised the issue on November 7, expressing disappointment over the loss of shows for his film despite what he described as a positive response from audiences.
According to the filmmaker, 'Pyre' began its theatrical run with around 80 shows across 80 screens. However, audience support helped the film expand its reach, with the number of screenings rising to more than 400 within three to four days of its release.
THIS IS NOT FAIR. NOT TO #PYRE. NOT TO ITS AUDIENCE. https://t.co/FYadN0dQXT
Kapri claimed that the situation changed over the two days preceding his post, with at least 75 per cent of the shows being withdrawn. He said the film was left with fewer than 100 screenings across the country.
The filmmaker said he had contacted theatre owners and distributors, who allegedly told him that they had been directed to screen only one particular film. He expressed concern that such instructions could leave smaller films without adequate theatrical space, even when screens were available.
While acknowledging that a big-budget film could seek more screenings, Kapri questioned why this should come at the expense of other releases. He argued that films which attract audiences should be allowed to continue their theatrical run rather than being removed to accommodate another production.
Kapri also highlighted the limited budget of 'Pyre', which he said was around Rs 2 crore to Rs 2.5 crore. He pointed out that the film featured actors who were not professional performers, adding that the team had invested its efforts and emotions in the project.
Appealing to theatre owners and distributors, the filmmaker urged them to give smaller productions a fair opportunity to reach audiences. He said independent films deserved a chance to remain in cinemas and called the alleged reduction in screenings unfair.