Screenings of Rajinikanth’s ‘Jailer 2’ have been suspended at York Cinemas in Canada from Wednesday, October 21, following a dispute over the digital authorisation required to exhibit the film.

The Canadian theatre chain said it had completed all financial obligations and payments related to the film but was unable to continue screenings because it had not received the necessary Key Delivery Messages (KDMs) from North American distributors Shloka Entertainments and Prathyangira Cinemas.

In a statement posted on Instagram, York Cinemas said the suspension was caused by circumstances beyond its control, adding that efforts to resolve the issue had not resulted in the required authorisation.

York Cinemas explains why ‘Jailer 2’ screenings were stopped

Announcing the decision, the exhibitor confirmed that the film would no longer be shown at its theatres from Wednesday. It said the required digital keys had not been supplied by the distributors despite the necessary authorisation from production company Sun Pictures.

“We regret to inform you that Jailer 2 will no longer be screening at York Cinemas effective Wednesday, October 21, 2026,” the exhibitor said, adding that the decision was due to circumstances beyond its control.

KDMs are digital security keys that allow cinemas to access and screen encrypted film files. Without valid keys, theatres cannot project the film, even if they have received the content and fulfilled their financial commitments.

“Without valid KDMs, we are technically unable to continue screening the film,” the statement said.

York Cinemas also apologised to audiences affected by the suspension, expressing regret over the disruption and thanking moviegoers for their continued support.

“We sincerely apologize for the disappointment and inconvenience this may cause and truly appreciate your understanding, patience, and continued support of York Cinemas,” the statement added.

Distributors and producers yet to respond

York Cinemas said it had attempted to resolve the issue to keep the film running but had been unable to secure the necessary authorisation.

Neither Shloka Entertainments and Prathyangira Cinemas, which distribute the film in North America, nor producer Sun Pictures had issued a response to the exhibitor’s announcement at the time of writing.

The reason for the delay in delivering the digital keys also remains unclear.

About ‘Jailer 2’

Directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, ‘Jailer 2’ marks his reunion with Rajinikanth after their collaboration on the 2023 action film ‘Jailer’. Backed by Sun Pictures, the sequel arrived in theatres worldwide on October 15.

The film features an ensemble cast comprising S. J. Suryah, Vidya Balan, Mithun Chakraborty, Suraj Venjaramoodu, Ramya Krishnan, Yogi Babu and Mirnaa Menon. Anirudh Ravichander has composed the music.