Film producers unite for fair revenue share from theatres

Dhaka's film producers have reached a consensus on the demand for a fair share of revenue from cinema halls. On Wednesday (May 14) afternoon, several producers held a meeting at a restaurant in Gulshan-2 to address this long-standing issue. Photos from the meeting were later shared on social media.

Speaking to Prothom Alo in the afternoon, producer Shahriar Shakil stated, "We are committed to staying united when it comes to protecting producers' interests. We discussed the matter of equitable revenue sharing from theatres."

The meeting was prompted by a news report published on Tuesday (May 13) in Prothom Alo, titled "Unjust AC Maintenance Charges", which sparked renewed discussions around the issue.

The report highlighted that cinema halls across the country—including Star Cineplex, Blockbuster Cinemas, Lion Cinemas, Shyamoli, and Modhumita—deduct substantial amounts under the pretext of air-conditioning maintenance, depriving producers of their rightful share of box office revenue.

In response, the multiplex authorities claimed that such charges have always been standard practice.

During the meeting, the producers proposed a reduction in AC maintenance charges and demanded a fair share from ticket sales.

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Shahriar Shakil added, "We want to engage in dialogue with theatre owners. We seek a fair distribution through discussion. We hope they will join us at the table and resolve the matter justly."

The meeting was also attended by directors and artistes involved in films set for release this upcoming Eid, including Shahriar Shakil, Redoan Rony, Shihab Shaheen, Nusrat Imrose Tisha, Raihan Rafi, Zahid Hasan Abhi, Shahreen Akhter Sumi, Mohammad Azim Harun, Abul Kalam, Sanjay Samaddar, Sharaf Ahmed Jibon, Krishnendu Chattopadhyay, and Abul Fazal Mohammad Yunus.