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.)
I agree with you. But piracy is bad anyways.
Piracy is bad for the industry yes. And I’d like invited premiers.
I go with you. esp, with the uncomfortable factor. Watching a movie at home is a lot more fun than going out. I have never been stuck in a queue yet, but where is the fun when you have to save your family from the locals who stare as if they see women for the first time. Why are the people stil the same? I havent travelled much, but I have been to some movie houses in Hyderabad and Bangalore, the people are far far better.
At home watching movies is always fun. no worries untill mom says, its time to study
( I am not a pirate-er myself, but the quality of the pirates is commentable. And with the arrival of cheap moserbaer movie packs, I think piracy has come down to a great extend. )
Arun
I agreed with Rithesh,,,, Piracy is bad of our future…
The film industry spends crores to create blockbuster movies. But for an investment costing so much, their delivery end to the customer (ie, movie goer) is not addressed at all. I have had enough of cattle pen like queque enclosures, poorly maintained seats, inadequate fans or airconditioning,poor quality snacks and drinks sold at astronomical rates, stinking toilets, inconsiderate and obstructive fellow film viewers, poor parking facilities and what have you.
When I go to buy a 5 Rs pen, I get more service and politeness than when I visit the movies paying 100 bucks each. The shopkeeper shows you all the brands he has, allows you to pick and choose and doesn’t flinch even when you change your mind at the last minute and give the blue pen back, asking for black instead. On the other hand, the theatre staff and management behave as if they’re doing a favour by allowing you into their hallowed premises after your paying through the nose for getting in.
The film makers have to work out standards for the customer end delivery and work with theatre owners to implement them. Otherwise, this trend will only worsen.
Another point is that you cannot fight or reverse technological advancement. The film makers can consider pro active measures like releasing original DVDs and VCDs simulataneouly with the film’s launch. This will stem piracy and increase their revenues simultaneously. Think of it. If tongawallahs and rikshaw wallahs have to make a living, does it means that buses, autos and taxis should be discouraged?
TG, you’re almost there with me. All I wanted to point out is that the customer is taken for granted, at least in India. They spent crores making movies which is great for themselves and the industry but screw you, I’m not going to any movies where I don’t get to park my vehicle or has stinking toilets, let alone AC and comfortable chairs.
We are at a point where the distribution system is clogged at one end, with advancement in technology and other end where we really have no clue who goes to movies. Somebody got to think about it, and fix it before it worsens, But wait..I really dont want to care about it. You call it Film Industry, I call it “your cash making machine I willfully agree paying for”. This time around I quit for my own good. If you think I’m not a part of your “Film Industry”, I’m clearly standing out.
That’s around what you said already TG, just to echo !