Producer Listin Stephen has dismissed speculations of internal discord within the Kerala Film Producers’ Association, affirming that the organization remains united.
According to On Manorama, addressing concerns, he stated, "If a strike is called tomorrow, Antony Perumbavoor will be leading from the front, standing by the association’s decisions."He also clarified that veteran producer Suresh Kumar’s recent remarks were not directed at any individual.
Listin highlighted that while 2024 was a highly successful year for Malayalam cinema in terms of hits, the industry faces uncertainties in 2025, particularly regarding OTT and satellite rights valuations. Amid these challenges, many producers are reportedly exploring opportunities in other film industries.
To navigate the shifting business landscape, the Producers’ Association recently held discussions with key industry bodies like FEOUK and the Distributors Association. A significant concern raised was the rising remuneration of actors. Listin revealed that the association had officially communicated to AMMA that actors should accept a pay cut. Additionally, a decision was made to introduce an instalment-based payment system for actors charging over ₹5 lakh.
Meanwhile, recently the actor Jayan Cherthala slammed Suresh Kumar’s comments. In a press meet, he said, “Superstardom is the most important factor in any cinema. This is not limited to Malayalam cinema, even in world cinema this is the criteria. When we release a poster with the faces of superstars like Mohanlal and Mammootty, the producers feel confident that the audiences will pay for the ticket to watch the film. Even the heads of this producers association, for example Suresh Kumar has made movies like ‘Aaram Thampuran’ that turned out to be superhits. He has utlized Mohanlal’s stardom to it’s best. During those times such people didn’t had any complaints. Now since there are several newcoming producers incoming who are using new actors for their film which turn out to be superhits. The list that the producers association unveiled has some movies which were only newly released and also those movie which no one has even heard of.”
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