Multiplex chain MovieMax to screen six-hour-long event live, insiders deny it has anything to do with largely dry spell at movie halls
The apparent response to Ram Mandir inauguration screening motivated the decision. Representation pic
After a series of political films on the big screen, it's time for politics itself. On June 4, multiplex chain MovieMax will screen the Lok Sabha election results live across its theatres in Maharashtra, in a first. Bookings are now open online for the six-hour-long show that will begin at 9 am. mid-day has learnt that the film exhibitor’s decision was motivated by the audience’s apparent response to the screening of the Ram Mandir inauguration.
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“MovieMax received a positive response to the Ram Mandir ceremony. We have also screened the T20 tournament earlier. We will do it again for the next edition. Such non-film events also become celebrations for the audience. The election results can also be looked at as a festival, where people having different favourites come together under one roof, combined with entertainment that we provide via surround system, big screen and food options,” the source said.
Close to 12 slots have been allotted across MovieMax theatres. The insider said the theatre chain is in talks to get permission for screenings in other states. “Right now, local authorities across states are busy with elections. But we are hopeful that we will get to screen the results in other states as well,” the insider said.
Aware that screening election results can cause in a politically charged environment, the multiplex chain wants to ensure tight security in and around the premises. “As the local authorities are informed, we will get enough help from them. At the same time, our own security will be tight enough. In a closed environment, even if there’s any disturbance, it can be dealt with quickly. We understand security concerns but we are confident that our audience will have a smooth experience,” the source said.
This novel development comes amid a largely dry spell at the theatres, with no big films except Mr and Mrs Mahi and Srikanth, both starring Rajkummar Rao, hitting the screens in the past month. Sources close to MovieMax, however, denied that the decision has any relation to Bollywood’s absence in the cinemas.
“Mr and Mrs Mahi released yesterday to a superb response. We are hopeful that this will continue. We also have Chhota Bheem and the Curse of Damyaan. Then there are a couple of Hollywood films running in theatres. So, there are enough movies running in cinemas. Our decision is only motivated by giving the audience a different engaging experience.”
As bookings for the screening of election results opened on Friday afternoon, the source said it was too early to share the number of tickets sold.
MovieMax has tied up with the news channel Times Now Navbharat for the election result screening.
A senior police officer said, “Multiplexes already have permission to host such events as per government norms and guidelines. If they organise any other events, they need to inform local police stations in case any law and order situation arises.”
With inputs by Faizan Khan
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