KFPA’s move to release box office data triggers outrage among producers

Kochi: The Kerala Film Producers Association’s (KFPA) recent move to publish monthly box office earnings—introduced in February and promoted as a tool to assist investors—is drawing criticism.

This initiative has sparked division within the industry, with some producers cautioning that it might have adverse effects, potentially deterring investment and misrepresenting the true picture of success in an already fragile market.

The KFPA’s March 2025 report revealed that only one out of the 15 films released that month, L2: Empuraan, was a commercial hit. While the association argues that releasing these figures helps producers better understand market trends and financial realities, scepticism remains among some industry members.

Producer Sandra Thomas is strongly against the KFPA’s decision, arguing that it is already causing harm to the industry. She believes the box office numbers being released are incomplete, pointing out that films generate revenue from several other channels, such as OTT rights, dubbing and remake rights, in addition to theatre collections. She said that it creates a misleading narrative that the entire industry is running at a loss.

Santhosh T Kuruvilla, known for co-producing films like Da Thadiya, Mayaanadhi, and Nna Thaan Case Kodu, also voiced his disapproval. He questioned the legitimacy of those publishing the reports, suggesting that such financial data should only be released by a state-authorised body. On social media, he urged those responsible to stop promoting what he described as “false ideas” about the industry, TNIE reported.

He expressed concern that publicising box office failures could dampen investor confidence. He emphasized that film production is not just high returns. The entertainment industry works on long-term goals.

In contrast, KFPA vice-president G Sureshkumar defended the association’s stance, stating that their intent is to make new producers aware of the financial risks involved in the industry. He clarified that the figures were not released to scare off investors but to highlight the growing challenges producers face, such as rising production expenses and increasing actor fees. He pointed out that many producers are already dealing with significant losses and debts.