Last quarter we saw two production houses battle it out for screens during a Diwali release. Ajay Devgn's ADF pressed charges against YRF saying YRF was in an unfair tie-in arrangement with the exhibitors. The films in question were ADF's 'Son of Sardaar' and YRF's 'Jab Tak Hain Jaan'.
This time it is the same situation once again with Balaji's 'Once Upon A Time in Mumbai 2' and SRK's Chennai Express. Apparently, 'Once Upon A Time in Mumbai 2' will suffer due to the fewer number of single screens available during Eid. According to sources, single screen owners have signed a deal to acquire Ajay Devgn's Himmatwala (a solo release) along with SRK's Chennai Express, leaving Balaji's film out in the cold.
Trade analyst Amod Mehra says, "All the major exhibitors have signed the deal over the weekend and now it will be suicidal if any film clashes with Chennai Express during Eid."
Trade expert Vikas Mohan says "It is business at the end of the day and whoever has the upper hand wins it. Like last time when YRF had the upper hand, Son Of Sardaar had to suffer. UTV has Himmatwala and then Chennai Express and that is why they are getting these theaters. It is ultimately the choice of the exhibitors and whom they want to do their business with."
Well we really hope this situation changes in Bollywood. Competition Commission of India, please take note!