Rajinikanth’s ‘Jailer 2’ seek legal action over alleged negative reviews; BookMyShow ratings vanish

Barely a day into its run, ‘Jailer 2’ is facing a fight off-screen over online reviews. The makers of Jailer 2, starring Rajinikanth, are reported to have initiated legal measures against what they describe as malicious and orchestrated negative reviews, which they say are damaging the film’s reputation. Audience ratings and reviews for the film have also reportedly been disabled on ticketing platform BookMyShow. 

According to various reports, the producers contend that a film’s commercial performance depends largely on social media discourse, online reviews and word of mouth, and that a sustained wave of negativity can adversely affect its box office prospects.

The move follows a pattern seen across Indian cinema this year. Several films released this year including ‘Toxic’ had their ratings and reviews blocked on BookMyShow pursuant to a court order.

In February, the Hindi film ‘O’Romeo’ had its audience ratings and public reviews disabled following a court order. BookMyShow has stated that it is a law-abiding intermediary platform that strictly complies with all applicable laws and court orders.

Ahead of the film’s release, Sun TV Network had also approached the courts on the issue of piracy. The Madras High Court granted an interim injunction restraining the unauthorised online exhibition of ‘Jailer 2’, on a suit filed by the production company.

Industry observers have cautioned that unfavourable reviews do not, by themselves, establish a coordinated campaign. Audience opinion is subjective, and films that receive broadly positive responses also draw dissenting views. Nonetheless, the growing concern over review manipulation has made such scrutiny understandable.

Despite a mixed critical response, sections of the audience have praised the film. Fans have said that Rajinikanth’s screen presence largely sustains it, and that the action sequences, staged in the actor’s signature mass style, compensate for its shortcomings.

‘Jailer 2’ is directed by Nelson Dilipkumar and features Rajinikanth, Vidya Balan, Mithun Chakraborty, Yogi Babu and Suraj Venjaramoodu in key roles. Hrithik Roshan, Shiva Rajkumar and Mohanlal make cameo appearances.