2018 OTT release: Netizens, fans disappointed with announcement, urge makers to postpone

Jude Anthany Joseph's 2018 has been widely discussed as a one-of-a-kind sleeper hit that defied all initial expectations. Having opened in theatres on May 5 in a rather unassuming manner, the film steadily grew at the box office and emerged as a phenomenal success that overtook the likes of Pulimurugan, Lucifer, and Kurup in its pursuits. 2018 is currently the highest-grossing Malayalam movie with close to Rs. 160 crores in gross collections.

However, the makers sprung a surprise on everyone when they announced that the film would soon debut on OTT. The Tovino Thomas-led survival thriller is set to premiere on Sony LIV on June 7, which is only five weeks (approx.) after its release in theatres and this seemingly sudden move has left netizens slightly perplexed. Many are of the opinion that the OTT release will hinder the current theatrical run, considering that the film is still attracting close to 100% occupancy in several areas. 

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As a result, the growing consensus among them is that the film's digital release must be delayed until the theatrical run does not meet its destined end. A number of those concerned about this have commented on Sony LIV's announcement post on social media. 

"This movie is still running in theaters with good occupancy, please release it in OTT by mid June.🙏 it's a request," wrote one user with another Twitter user reminding the makers that the film's dubbed versions released only last week and that the OTT premiere must be postponed by at least two weeks. "It's a request from movie lovers," added the same user.

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In the same vein, several other social media users wondered if the dubbed versions of the film, too, would be available to stream on June 7. The announcement made by Sony LIV includes the Malayalam trailer of the film but it is apparent that the film has found love across regions and as a result, its admirers have urged the streaming platform to release the film in all available languages.