Bhool Chuk Maaf in legal trouble after cancelling theatrical release: All that we know so far

Dinesh Vijan's Bhool Chuk Maaf is now facing legal trouble after switching from theatrical to direct-to-OTT release. The film, starring Aligarh actor Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi in the lead roles, was supposed to release in theatres and the distribution rights were already sold. Tickets sold were being refunded, but there was one aspect that the makers appear to have missed - the distributors. PVR, in particular, appear miffed at the move from Dinesh Vijan. As per a new report, they have sued the makers of Bhool Chuk Maaf for cancelling the theatrical release. Here's everything we know so far...

Bhool Chuk Maaf makers in legal trouble

Dinesh Vijan (one of Go Goa Gone's producers) seems to be in legal trouble after cancelling the theatrical release of Bhool Chuk Maaf at the end moment. PVR Inox sent a legal notice to his production company, and moved court against the makers. They have sued Maddock Films for Rs. 60 crore loss incurred by them owing to the sudden move. Maddock argued that it was a security concern and that they could not keep the movie on hold for a month or more owing to piracy concerns. PVR, on the other hand, explained that they incurred heavy losses after money was spent on poster and banner displays, standee displays, social media promotions, and expansive operational planning. The bookings for the movie had also opened, which resulted in further losses to the exhibitors. Cinema halls in certain states are shut, while night shows are non-operational in other parts, leading to the producers deciding that Bhool Chuk Maaf should be an OTT release. The verdict in the matter is expected to be out on Monday, May 12.

The budget for Bhool Chuk Maaf marketing vs the legal demand

Bhool Chuk Maaf makers further pointed out that the movie is a comparatively smaller budget film and a demand like Rs. 60 crore would appear unfair when the budget for marketing itself was Rs. 25 crore. A source on behalf of the exhibitors was quoted telling Pinkvilla that Bhool Chuk Maaf makers decided for a direct-to-OTT release after noticing poor advance booking. The makers, however, maintain that they decided to take the direct-to-OTT route owing to safety concerns amid India-Pakistan's counter-strikes that could lead to war.

When and where to watch Bhool Chuk Maaf now?

Rajkummar Rao-Wamiqa Gabbi (Tabaah-famed actress)'s Bhool Chuk Maaf will now be streaming on Prime Video from May 16. The makers had announced the delay in the film's release two days prior.

Bhool Chuk Maaf's theatrical release was also expected to unveil Param Sundari and Thama's promos. Now, they would not be exclusive theatrical releases and thus, the makers might unveil the promos soon or with the OTT release itself. There is no clarity on the same thus far.