In a fresh blow to filmmakers, four major TV broadcasters have decided not to purchase A rated films. Not even if the producers in question or the censors clip the objectionable portions and hand them a modified version to be broadcast.
The broadcasters also added that in the event they purchase a film well before its release and it then gets rated A a week or two before hitting theatres, they will be left with no option but to terminate the contract.
Confirming the development, Jayantilal Gada, CMD of PEN India, the acquisition agency for Zee TV, told TOI:
We have decided we will not buy an A’ film. We hardly bought any films in the past that were unfit for family viewing. Zee TV is a family channel and it has decided to remain so always.
Besides, why indulge in investment where neither the returns nor the viewership is according to expectations?
Sony Entertainment Television, which has been a lead player in broadcasting films with controversial content, categorically told some filmmakers about the channel’s new policy. Mahesh Bhatt told TOI:
A very highly placed representative of Sony told me they had taken a decision they would not buy films that get an A certificate from the Censor Board. She said even those films that are modified to a U/A rating for TV viewing will not qualify.
This will create chaos in the film industry. Makers will have to do a rethink on content.
STAR Gold and Movies OK and Colors are 2 other broadcasters following the leadof Sony and Zee TV.
