Seema Pahwa: Netflix hasn’t written why they pushed film

A still from Pagglait

There are uncanny similarities between Sanya Malhotra's Pagglait and Ramprasad Ki Tehrvi, from being shot at the same house to the premise of a joint family mourning the loss of a loved one. But looks like the success of one has led to the other getting the short end of the stick. Featured in Netflix's ‘Coming soon' section and set to drop online on March 31, the OTT release of Seema Pahwa's directorial debut has evidently been deferred.

Ramprasad Ki Tehrvi hit theatres in January

The actor-director, whose drama had a big-screen release in January, is clueless about the change in plans. "Once a film is made, the platform deals with the producers. [Earlier], my producers had confirmed that it will be released in March-end. After it didn't drop online on March 31, I didn't think it wise to drag the matter. The producers have told me that the movie will drop on the platform when the [head honchos] decide on it."

Seema Pahwa

The delay has been presumably caused due to the March 26 release of Netflix original film Pagglait. Rolling out two movies with similar themes may not bode well for the streaming giant. Pahwa, however, refuses to resort to accusations. "Netflix hasn't written to me why they have pushed the film. I don't want to make statements based on assumptions. I have no idea when my film will be available on the platform." Industry insiders say that OTT platforms sign licensed deals for movies that have already had a theatrical run. A release date is zeroed in on, depending on the gap between a film's theatrical outing and OTT release - ranging from three to eight weeks - as decided by the two parties.

Netflix India declined to comment.