In a significant ruling that reinforces the fundamental right to freedom of speech and expression, the Madras High Court has rejected a petition filed by the Tamil Film Active Producers Association (TFAPA), that sought to ban online reviews of newly released films for the first three days post-release.
Justice Anand Venkatesh delivered the verdict, stating that the relief requested by the association could not be granted as it would directly infringe upon citizens’ constitutionally protected rights. The court emphasized that attempting to restrict individuals from sharing their opinions, especially in the age of digital platforms and social media, would amount to curtailing free expression.
The judge further noted that such restrictions were not only impractical but also contrary to democratic principles. He pointed out that people have every right to critique films and that expecting only favorable reviews was unrealistic. In fact, the court remarked that even members of the judiciary face public criticism and scrutiny online.
The TFAPA, which represents the interests of film producers and assists in various aspects of filmmaking from production and marketing to distribution argued that online reviews, especially on social media, have grown significantly in influence. According to the association, these reviews often shape public perception and impact a film’s success or failure at the box office.
However, the association also raised concerns over the misuse of online platforms. It alleged that some individuals or groups intentionally post negative reviews due to personal vendettas or business competition, creating a distorted perception of the film even before general audiences can view it. They acknowledged the presence of sincere reviewers but highlighted the rise of certain YouTube channels that use vulgar language and sensationalism to attract views and subscribers.
Claiming a right to protect the commercial interests of producers, TFAPA requested a temporary ban on such early reviews to prevent so-called “review bombing.” Despite these arguments, the court held firm that enforcing such a ban would be virtually impossible and inconsistent with legal principles surrounding free speech.
In conclusion, the court found no legal basis to impose a restriction on early film reviews and therefore dismissed the petition.
The development comes after films like Kamal Haasan’s Indian 2, TJ Gnanavel’s Rajinikanth-starrer Vettaiyan, and Suriya’s Kanguva turned out to be flops suffering significant losses due to negative reviews. No Tamil film has been able to crack the pan-Indian magic that Telugu or Kannada films like RRR, KGF, Pushpa, etc.
With DMK-simping actors and Dravidianist agenda-driven films facing failure, Dravidianwood is going ‘damaal’.
(With Inputs From Live Law)
Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.