Kochi: Actress and producer Sandra Thomas has spoken out about the mishandling of her film Little Hearts, which was released earlier this year. Sandra claims that the distributor, FEOUK (Film Exhibitors United Organisation of Kerala), failed to properly promote and distribute the film, resulting in great losses. She alleges that the mismanagement was a deliberate act and that the matter is now under police investigation. Sandra made these statements in an interview with Can Channel Media.

Sandra explained that FEOUK was recommended by the Producers’ Association as the distributor for Little Hearts, but once the film was handed over, its release was mishandled. “In the first week, there were only a few screenings. When I asked about more, they promised things would improve in the second week, but nothing changed. The film didn’t even have posters in the theatres, and there were no promotional materials or flex boards at major venues,” Sandra explained, visibly frustrated. She added that the film’s name was even omitted from the weekly screenings list in the newspapers. 

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Sandra is adamant that the issues with the film's release were not mere negligence, but a targeted attempt to sabotage the film. “We realised it was not just bad distribution, but a deliberate effort to harm the film. The police investigation will bring out more details soon,” she said, pointing out that the mishandling could have been intended as a punishment for actor Shane Nigam, with whom she has worked closely on the film.

‘Legal Action’

Sandra Thomas has initiated legal proceedings against the Kerala Film Producers Association (KFPA) after being expelled for alleged disciplinary violations. Sandra, who has been an active figure in the Malayalam film industry, filed a petition in the Ernakulam District Sub Court, challenging her removal from the association. She claims the expulsion was unjustified and illegal, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing dispute between her and the industry body.

Sandra’s expulsion follows a series of controversies, including her criticisms of the KFPA’s internal workings. She had previously accused the association of operating under the influence of a few individuals, without adequate consultation or regard for the challenges faced by female producers. Along with fellow producer Sheela Kurian, Sandra sent letters urging a leadership change within the KFPA, pointing out that discussions about the struggles of women producers were often mocked. This led to her receiving a show-cause notice and eventual expulsion after her responses were deemed unsatisfactory by the association.

Sandra’s legal challenges and public statements have added a new layer of complexity to her already turbulent relationship with the Kerala film industry. (With inputs from Agencies)