Malayalam actors’ union declines to support producers’ film strike; postpones decision on rising actors’ remuneration: ‘Stubbornness of some people…’

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“The meeting also assessed that the film industry, which is already going through a severe financial crisis, is being dragged into an unnecessary strike due to the stubbornness of some people, which will put not only the financial sector but also many workers who depend on the film in more trouble,” the statement, signed by the association’s ad-hoc committee, stated.

Regarding concerns over rising actors’ remuneration, AMMA stated that any decision on the matter would be taken only after its upcoming general body meeting. However, the organisation reaffirmed its willingness to engage in discussions with any industry body committed to the growth and welfare of Malayalam cinema.

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Meanwhile, AMMA also responded to the legal notice issued by KFPA against Jayan Cherthala, an ad-hoc committee member of the actors’ body, over his claim that the producers’ association had sought financial assistance from the former. Assuring full legal support to him, AMMA has indirectly confirmed Jayan’s statement that KFPA had requested Rs 1 crore for constructing an office. He had said that while AMMA provided the amount, the producers’ association has yet to fully repay the debt.

During the day, the executive body of the Kerala Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) also convened a meeting, where it reaffirmed its support for the strike called by KFPA. KFCC also demanded that producer Antony Perumbavoor remove his controversial Facebook post. Meanwhile, KFPA vice-president G Suresh Kumar announced that the association would continue to publicly disclose the actual box office collections of all theatrical releases. He also made it clear that the he would not engage in discussions with Antony Perumbavoor regarding the controversial Facebook post.