JioHotstar Goes All-Out with Mohanlal: Thudarum OTT Rights

Mohanlal has once again established his reign in the Malayalam film market. With the record-breaking success of L2: Empuraan, the highest-grossing Malayalam film ever, his recent release Thudarum has also received positive word of mouth and is all set to breach the Rs. 50 Cr mark. In the midst of such success, JioHotstar is the biggest gainer by acquiring Thudarum OTT rights to two consecutive hits.

Thudarum OTT Rights

Following the acquisition of the digital rights of Empuraan, the sequel to the Lucifer franchise, for a record amount, JioHotstar has procured the streaming rights for Mohanlal’s Thudarum as well. But the rights for Thudarum were only sold at a much lower rate than Empuraan. The makers, headed by M Renjith, negotiated with JioHotstar during the time of the Disney-Reliance merger when the market value for Mohanlal’s movies was relatively low.

The valuation decrease came after dismal performances of Barroz and Malaikottai Vaaliban, which did not excite movie-goers in cinema halls or on OTT. Consequently, the release of Thudarum was delayed from its initial plan in January, and its rights were later on-sold at a nominal price.

A Strategic Win for JioHotstar
The warm welcome received by Thudarum has been beneficial to JioHotstar. Waiting until theatrical success to sell digital rights is fast becoming the norm in the Malayalam film industry. While lucrative films fetch better OTT rates after release, flops tend to find it difficult to get deals. With the success of Thudarum, JioHotstar has found gold again.

What to Expect From Thudarum
Directed by Tharun Moorthy, Thudarum casts Mohanlal in the role of Shanmugham, a cab driver whose life turns dramatic when his beloved Ambassador car is seized. Co-directed by KR Sunil and Tharun, the drama-thriller also has Shobana, Binu Pappu, and director Prakash Varma playing important roles. The movie, which hit the screens on April 25, traces the emotional and turbulent experiences of Shanmugham’s family.

OTT Release Date
In line with the trend established by Empuraan, Thudarum should reach JioHotstar by the end of May. Providing viewers with yet another thrilling experience.

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