Don’t get me wrong. I do understand the seriousness of pirated DVD’s and VCD’s. I know how much revenue is lost from the film makers. I do respect their efforts as well. But sadly, I have to say, though I hate to – that I prefer to watch movies on pirated CD’s at home.
And I think I have a fair reason.
Since I relocated back to Cochin, I’ve been visiting the movies regularly (like I always have at all places I’ve been to – a good movie bluff that I am). I only go out with my family, and I do watch a good number of movies. Which makes me believe that I’m a decent potential “customer” – with pleasure.
But unlike in Chennai, Mumbai or Bangalore, I don’t seem to quite enjoy the movie going experience in Kerala. I hate to say this, but I have no threads to save. I thought its just me, but no, my family too declared after the first few months that in Kerala, its not that quite enjoyable.
The reasons are fair if not plenty.
I can’t find one theatre in Cochin city that has a planned car park.
There is no proper advanced booking (No no…of course I know there is one where they give you a number written on a small chit of paper).
There are always sweaty queues (even after booking) and rush which I hate.
Forget the theatre, I can’t find any place that has a proper rest room or even a walk way with fans at least.
Its alright if I were going to movies alone or with my friends. But when I’m with my family, its very un comfortable.
I’m not trying to exaggerate here or trying to belittle the theatres in Kerala. Its just my frustration that why aren’t anyone, (the film makers/ theatre owners) or who ever is responsible, is not doing anything about making the movie going experience pleasureable ?
I’m sure most of us love going to movies, despite all of us having DVD players at home. Its because of the love for the art form and the fun of it.
But gentlemen, if you want to save the film industry, please, you better look into this. Make better theatres, where people love to go, not a place for sweating it out. The rush and hustle is fun of course, but is that the only crowd you want to focus on ?
So next time when you appear on TV requesting us not to buy pirated VCD’s, please fucking understand that not everyone like you gets invited for premieres. We love movies as much as you do and we don’t want to help “thieves” either.
In my honest and humble opinion, the term “thief” better suits you and the theatre owners than the guy who sells pirated stuff. We pay you to watch movies and relax. You are not doing a favor for us by letting us in, alright ? Well, if you think it is – god bless the industry.
(Not intended to hurt anyone. Purely out of frustration.)
