Single-screen theatres struggle even after the third covid wave wanes

Single screen cinemas across small towns of India said they are yet to see audiences return to the movies like they used to, despite the third Covid wave having receded. Small town audiences have discovered the charm and convenience of video streaming platforms plus cinemas are not offering any mass-market content that appeals to them, owners of single screen theatres and film trade analysts said.

After the success of Allu Arjun’s popular film Pushpa: The Rise-Part One that released in December, there have been no films with universal, mass-market appeal.

Multilingual film Radhe Shyam featuring Baahubali star Prabhas, failed to generate buzz and several others like Badhaai Do and Jhund seemed too niche for popular appeal.

Independent theatres are also hit by inflation besides mounting fixed electricity charges especially with the onset of summers when air-conditioning is needed. Live Mint