Drishyam 2 sold to Amazon Prime to release Marakkar in theatres: Antony Perumbavoor

On New Year’s Day, the makers of ‘Drishyam 2’ had released the teaser online. Along with that, they also made a surprise announcement regarding the film premiering in Amazon Prime Video. This kick-started a row as theatre owners, distributors and several other industry insiders expressed their displeasure against the direct OTT release of such a huge film.

Producer Antony Perumbavoor has clarified that since ‘Marakkar: Arabikadlinte Simham’ release was getting indefinitely pushed, he had no other option but to sell ‘Drishyam 2’ to Amazon Prime. According to him, ‘Drishyam 2’ was was sold to release ‘Marakkar’ in theatres.

‘Marakkar’ was originally supposed to release in March last year just days before the nationwide lockdown was announced. The 8-month long delay has caused a huge liability for the makers, which forced them to sell ‘Drishyam 2’. Though they got solid offers for ‘Marakkar’ streaming rights from leading OTTs, the makers decided not to sell it as they firmly believe it is a big-scale film that needs to be experienced in theatres.

While ‘Drishyam 2’ release date has not yet been announced, ‘Marakkar’ will be getting a grand theatrical release on March 26.