The conflict between Malayalam film producers and actors has deepened with the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) deciding not to support the strike announced by the Kerala FIlm Producers’ Association (KFPA). The strike planned from June 1, aims to address financial losses in the industry due to high entertainment taxes and rising actor salaries. The decision was made at the meeting held at AMMA’s Kochi office, attended by around 50 actors including Mammootty, Mohanlal, Suresh Gopi, Manju Pillai, Tovino Thomas, Bindu Panicker, Joju George and more.
AMMA stated, “Our members have decided not to support the strike called by a section of Malayalam film producers.” The union emphasized that an industry-wide shutdown would negatively impact workers dependent on daily earnings.
Despite AMMA’s opposition, Kerala Film Producers’ Association (KFPA) remains firm on going ahead with the strike. Speaking to the media, the vice president of KFPA, G Suresh Kumar clarified, “Our protest is not against actors but seeks relaxation in entertainment taxes. Many theatres are struggling, and government intervention is crucial.” Meanwhile KFPA along with the Kerala Film Distributors Association, the Film Employees Federation of Kerala and the Film Exhibitors United Organisation of Kerala, announced the strike after a joint meeting on February 6. The decision was further fueled by the industry’s financial crisis and concerns over rising star fees.
Meanwhile, tensions within KFPA escalated when senior producer Antony Perumbavoor publicly criticized G Suresh Kumar for announcing the strike without securing a majority consensus. Responding to this, Kumar said, “There is no room for further talks with Antony Perumbavoor. His Facebook post was inappropriate, and I see no reason to communicate with him.”
While AMMA does not support the strike, it has agreed to discuss the issue of actors’ remuneration at its general body meeting in June. The organization aims to find a solution that benefits both producers and actors without disrupting the industry.
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