"there might be some clarity within the next one month."
The makers of Bell Bottom are reportedly in discussions to have the film digitally released on Amazon Prime Video instead of in theatres.
If this happens then it would be the second Akshay Kumar film to have a direct release on an OTT platform after Laxmii on Hotstar.
A source has claimed that the producers are in talks with Amazon about the possibility of a digital release.
The source told Bollywood Hungama: “The producers of Bell Bottom – Jackky Bhagnani and Vashu Bhagnani – have started conversations with Amazon Prime to explore the possibility of a direct to digital release, and so far, both the parties seem to be on the same page.
“They are discussing various prospects including the financials, and there might be some clarity within the next one month.
“But at this point of time, team Bell Bottom is definitely exploring the direct to digital option of release.”
Bell Bottom was the first Bollywood film to start filming after lockdown restrictions were lifted and it was previously stated that it would arrive “only in cinemas” on April 2, 2021.
However, the source said that the film’s release would be delayed until June, elaborating:
“The makers have decided to now delay the film by two months and bring it in June.
“The primary reason for the delay has got to do with the fact that Akshay Kumar’s Sooryavanshi is looking to release in the one-month window of March 15 to April 15.
“It would be stupid to bring two Akshay Kumar films in a span of 30 days on the big screen, particularly in between this pandemic.”
Despite the promise that Bell Bottom would release in cinemas, the possibility of a digital release is being looked at.
The source explained: “Given the costs and several other factors associated with the film as also Akshay’s jam-packed release calendar, the makers thought of exploring the digital release with Amazon Prime.
“The Bhagnani’s share a close bond with the digital platform and so does Akshay, and that’s how the meeting happened.
“All stakeholders are currently working towards arriving at terms and conditions that are beneficial to all of them.”
If a deal is reached, it would be an unexpected move and not beneficial to theatre companies which have been deeply affected by the pandemic.
Akshay Kumar is one of Bollywood’s most bankable stars and is a figure who can bring audiences back to theatres and generate revenue.
Bell Bottom is currently in post-production and is expected to be completed by mid-February.
The source added: “Yes, the film will be ready by mid-February and as things stand today, the makers are okay to hold it for two months more than the stipulated release date to bring it on the big screen.
“The scenario on the ground is improving and hence, it’s imperative to support cinema halls now.”
The spy thriller is set in the 1980s and also stars Vaani Kapoor.
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