Even newcomers demand hefty remuneration for films, says Producers Association

Kochi: Unable to bear the heavy remuneration demanded by actors, the Producers Association, an organisation of filmmakers, has decided to take stringent measures to curb this trend. After discussions with various film organizations, the association is considering strong actions, such as halting productions.

Even newcomers are now demanding higher fees, which the producers say are unaffordable. In addition to the fees, producers must also pay GST on the money paid to actors, as well as entertainment tax to the government.

As part of the initial steps to register their protest, the association plans to inform the technical experts' group in the film industry, FEFKA. Since rising costs are affecting both distributors and theater owners, the association will also make them aware of the seriousness of the issue, said B. Rakesh, Secretary of the Producers Association.

The association has sent a letter to the actors' organization, AMMA, requesting a reduction in fees. They also asked that the existing agreement be changed so that the full fee is paid before the release, rather than before the dubbing.

So far, AMMA has not responded to the association's request. After further consultations with other organizations, the Producers Association has decided to have detailed discussions with AMMA.