Bhool Chuk Maaf: PVRINOX and Maddock Films resolve dispute, theatrical release back on track

Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi’s Bhool Chuk Maaf has been in the headline for all the wrong reasons ever since the makers of the film abruptly decided to cancel its theatrical release, opting for a direct-to-OTT release. This decision of the makers didn’t go down well with its exhibitors, PVRINOX, who moved the Bombay High Court challenging the same. After all the legal battle, the makers have now decided to release the film theatrically on May 23. Now, both Maddock Films and PVRINOX have shared a statement claiming they have worked out their differences.

Dinesh Vijan, the founder of Maddock Films, said, “As our surroundings begin to heal, we’re especially grateful to offer a theatrical experience for a film that speaks from the heart. In these times, when family means everything, we urge audiences to head to theatres with their loved ones, share a laugh, reflect on life, and enjoy a story that, we hope, brings joy. We’re also incredibly thankful to our exhibitors as partners for their continued support, flexibility, and commitment to theatrical storytelling. The release environment has changed for the better, and we’re proud to collaborate once again with them for our film’s release.”

Kamal Gianchandani of PVRINOX said in a statement, “We are proud to affirm our deep commitment to the theatrical experience — a cornerstone of Indian cinema culture and the most immersive way to experience storytelling at its finest. We fully understand and respect the challenges faced by the team at Maddock Films in finalising the release of Bhool Chuk Maaf. We are thankful for their continued faith in the theatrical model and their decision to bring this film to audiences where it truly belongs — in cinemas. Their support reinforces the strong bond between content creators and exhibitors, and we look forward to a successful release.”

On May 8, a day before Bhool Chuk Maaf’s initial theatrical release, Maddock Films took to social media to make an announcement. In a statement, the production house said, “In light of recent events and the heightened security drills across the nation, we at Maddock Films and Amazon MGM Studios have decided to bring our family entertainer, Bhool Chuk Maaf, directly to your homes on May 16–only on Prime Video, worldwide. While we were eagerly looking forward to celebrating this film with you in theatres, the spirit of the nation comes first. Jai Hind.”

On May 10, PVRINOX moved Bombay High Court. The multiplex chain alleged a breach of contract by Maddock Films. Demanding a compensation of Rs 60 crore, PVRINOX argued that the producers terminated the agreement just a day before the release, causing them financial loss.

In an interim order, the court restrained Maddock Films from releasing Bhool Chuk Maaf on any platform until eight weeks after its theatrical release at PVR cinemas. The makers then confirmed to SCREEN that Bhool Chuk Maaf, scheduled for a Amazon Prime Video release on May 16, will now release in theatres on May 23. The film will stream on Amazon Prime Video, two weeks later, on June 6.

Meanwhile, PVR withdrew its demand for a Rs 60 crore compensation from Maddock Films.