Drishyam 3 OTT Row: Amazon Claims Exclusive Digital Rights, Warns Legal Action Ahead Of Release

Drishyam 3 OTT Row: A fresh development has emerged around the much-anticipated Malayalam film Drishyam 3, with Amazon Prime Video issuing a public notice asserting its exclusive ownership of the film's digital rights. The notice, dated recently, has raised questions about the film's distribution plans ahead of its scheduled theatrical release in May.

In the statement, Amazon Seller Services Private Limited said it holds sole and exclusive digital rights to Drishyam 3, including multiple formats such as subscription-based streaming, rental, ad-supported viewing, and electronic sell-through. The company clarified that these rights were secured through existing agreements with Aashirvad Cinemas, the banner backing the film.

The notice also cautioned that neither the production house nor any associated party has the authority to sell or license these digital rights to third parties. It further warned that any entity engaging in such transactions without Amazon's consent would do so at their own risk, indicating the possibility of legal consequences.

The statement went on to underline that the company is prepared to pursue legal remedies, including injunctions and claims for damages, if its rights are infringed upon or if its contractual arrangements are disrupted.

Drishyam 3 and Drishyam 2 Release Plans

Directed by Jeethu Joseph and headlined by Mohanlal, Drishyam 3 is the third installment in the popular thriller franchise. Actors Meena, Ansiba Hassan, and Esther Anil are set to reprise their roles. The film was initially expected to release on April 2 but has since been rescheduled to May 21, aligning with Mohanlal's birthday. Reports have linked the change to the ongoing situation in West Asia.

While there has been no official response so far from the producers or associated stakeholders regarding the notice, reports suggest the issue may be linked to attempts to explore alternative distribution arrangements. Earlier reports had indicated potential collaborations involving other production entities for a wider release strategy, which may have contributed to the current situation.

The clarification from Amazon comes at a time when the film is gearing up for release, adding an unexpected layer to its pre-release phase.

Meanwhile, Drishyam 2, which had a direct-to-digital release during the pandemic, is set for theatrical release on April 10, marking its first big-screen outing. As anticipation builds for the third installment, it remains to be seen how the ongoing digital rights issue will be addressed in the coming weeks.