The Malayalam film industry, renowned for producing some of the best films in India, continues to deliver critically acclaimed and commercially successful movies like Manjummel Boys, Premalu, Aavesham, and 2018.
However, it still trails behind its Telugu and Tamil counterparts, which have larger distribution networks in the North.
Also Read – What to Watch On OTT This Weekend?
Despite the Malayalam industry’s artistic and business strengths, major OTT platforms are not keen on acquiring rights to these films. The industry is facing a lack of interest from key OTT players.
Three years ago, platforms like Amazon Prime and Netflix India were actively buying Malayalam movies. Today, they have mostly stopped. Currently, only SonyLIV and Disney Hotstar show some interest, but they offer very low prices.
Also Read – Mirzapur 3 Trailer: Struggle For Power In The City Of Crime
Despite being a big hit, Prithviraj Sukumaran’s Aadujeevitham has yet to sell its OTT rights.
While big Hindi and Telugu films can sell for 100-250 crores, Malayalam films often struggle to secure even 15 crores. The OTT platforms don’t show any rush to buy digital rights to Malayalam films.
Also Read – Mirzapur 3 Trailer Review: Big Highlight Missing
One possible reason for this trend is that Malayalam films, despite their critical acclaim, appeal mainly to a niche audience of elite cinephiles.
OTT platforms, needing mass viewership to justify their investments, might find it hard to justify purchasing these films.
source
