Chennai: Claiming that they suffered huge loss releasing Sivakarthikeyan starrer Seemaraja, film distributors have said that they will not allow the release of Mr Local unless Sivakarthikeyan compensates them. Directed by M Rajesh and produced by Studio Green, Mr Local features Nayanthara opposite Sivakarthikeyan. Plans are on for release 17 May.
Remember Sivakarthikeyan acted in Remo a couple of years ago. It was produced by the actor’s friend RD Raja on behalf of his 24 AM Studios. A big-budget movie it managed average collection at the box office. It was followed by Velaikkaran starring Sivakarthikeyan and bankrolled by 24 AM Studios. The movie managed good reviews. But failed to make profits. And their third venture together was Seemaraja. It again sank without any trace.
Meanwhile, when the actor’s next Mr Local was getting ready for release this May, distributors are up in arms demanding that they suffered huge loss to the tune of Rs 40 crore screening his earlier movies.
“Sivakarthikeyan had promised to compensate us for the losses. Hence he should take immediate efforts to bail us out. Until he decides to do so, we will not co-operate with him. We will allow the release of Mr Local only after our demands are met,” the distributors said.
Sivakarthikeyan was not available for any comment. The actor is also part of movies being produced by Sun Pictures and Lyca International. A couple of movies from 24 AM Studios are also on the floors.