Kamal to go ahead with DTH release of Viswaroopam

Actor Kamal Haasan has been facing the wrath of exhibitors ever since he chose to premier his upcoming film 'Vishwaroopam' on DTH (Direct-To-Home) platform ahead of its theatrical release. But it didn't deter Kamal.

The movie is all set to be premiered on January 10 while theatrical release is slated for January 11. Kamal, who was in Hyderabad on Monday to promote the film, spoke about the much-talked about issue.

'The idea to premier the film through DTH platform is not just conceived by Raaj Kamal Films. As an owner of a media corporation, I've been keenly following the developments in technology.

The idea dates back to ten years. I know about this since then. But executing this took ten-long-years. I'm glad DTH companies have jointly come forward now for this landmark step.'

'DTH is not an alternative option to cinema, but an additional choice. As a producer, it's my right to sell my product in every possibility and DTH is such business practice.

I'm sure that it hardly affects theatres, since only 1% of audience will watch the film through DTH. Moreover, those who can't come out to theatres would avail this opportunity especially old, ill-health and physically challenged people. Not all public places are people-friendly.

Watching the film at home and in a theatre are two different experiences. Film piracy takes away more money from the movie distributors than this. Theatrical experience is much better compared to DTH practice.

Also, we're taking strict measures so that it can't be recorded from premier of DTH. It will be available on Airtel, Sun Direct, Dish TV, Videocon, Big TV and Tata Sky.

The film will be premiered without commercials. They also ensured me that this facility could not be availed by restaurants, public places and others.'

He added, 'Yes at first, some exhibitors in Tamil Nadu did threaten me that my films' will not be exhibited hereafter in theatres. But at the end, I'm releasing this film in 390-odd theatres there.

Moreover, I'm more confident of my film and hence I'm not afraid of the talk which would be out before its theatrical release.'

He said that it's a part and parcel of progress. 'Laboratories didn't protest when the digital technology projectors like Cube and UFO took over them.

Cable-operators didn't create ruckus when technology of Satellite TVs forayed. Landlines didn't complain when mobile phones had come into force. You can stop Kamal, but not technology.

I assure exhibitors that it will be a win-win-win situation for exhibitors, producers and DTH operators as well. Ten years down the line, you might agree with my words. It will not disturb the ecosystem of cinema business.'

'I doubt whether this could prevent piracy. But it certainly helps producers. They could expand their market. I've spent crores on 'Vishwaroopam' and I'm yet to get a single penny in return till today.'

'Audience overseas couldn't avail DTH facility. Since I've been involved in talks with theatre owners, I didn't get the time to look after it. But people across states could watch the film in the language of their interest through a SMS (Short Message Service).'

Meanwhile on Sunday, veteran director Dasari Narayana Rao has heaped praises on Kamal Haasan during the audio release of Telugu version of 'Vishwaroopam'. The legendary director described Kamal as a warrior.

He said, 'I was supposed to introduce Rajinikath to Telugu with 'Toorpu Padamara' which I missed. Also, I was expected to launch Kamal in Telugu with 'Kanya Kumari', but he couldn't take up my project since he had committed to K Balachander's film.

Kamal is the apt description for word 'Lokanayakudu' (Universal hero). He has that zeal for acting. He has no other business except cinema.

Veering towards the DTH release of the film ahead of its theatrical release, he said, 'Kamal is a man who is swimming against the stream. I'm supporting his idea to release a film through DTH (Direct To Home) platform.

No one can stop or prevent progress. It's a revolution. In an age when pirated CDs are available like peanuts the very second of the film's release, it is important to embrace new technology in order to rescue producers from steep losses.'

He added, 'During a battle, the soldiers in front row get more injuries. In DTH episode, Kamal is such a warrior. Future lies in it. It is needed to expand our market.'

Kamal Haasan said, 'I had first heard of Dasari's name from Balachander sir. Since then, I've been his fan. I've worked with him for 'Yaadgaar' which I will never forget.

Also, I worked with D Ramanaidu for 'Indrudu Chandrudu'. He is the only producer I've seen who learns the script of the film by heart. K Balachander is my guru. I'm fortunate to work with such great people. That's why I think I will never ever go wrong.'

Dasari Narayana Rao, who is releasing the film in AP through his Siri Media Pvt Ltd, unveiled the first CD and gave it to D Ramanaidu. Directors SS Rajamouli, Harish Shankar and Santosh Srinivas were also present at the launch. The movie is written, directed and produced by Kamal Haasan.