Good news may be on the way for Tamil cinema fans. According to Tamil Nadu trade sources, the state government is set to issue a GO allowing early morning shows from 6 AM, starting with the Diwali releases.
However, there will be no ticket price hike.
6 AM Shows After Years
If the GO comes through, it would mark the return of early morning shows in Tamil Nadu after several years. Since early 2023, special shows in the state have usually started only from 9 AM, and the early fan shows that were once common for big star films have been missing.
A 6 AM slot would give fans the chance to watch big releases first thing in the morning again, and it would add an extra show on release day.
No Ticket Price Hike
The exhibitors’ association had asked the government for two things: permission for 6 AM shows and a ticket price hike of up to ₹250.
As per trade sources, the government is approving only the early shows. Ticket prices will stay at the regular rates.
Starting With Diwali Releases
The new rule is expected to start with this week’s Diwali releases. Ramayana arrives in theatres on November 5, and Suriya’s Scene follows on November 6.
Scene’s makers had held back the film’s bookings in Tamil Nadu while they waited for the GO. With a decision now expected, bookings could open soon.
What It Means for the Box Office
An extra 6 AM show will help the Diwali releases post bigger opening day numbers in Tamil Nadu. With more shows in a day, films can sell more tickets on their first day, especially big star films with strong fan demand.
But without a price hike, the jump in gross collections will be limited. The boost will come from more tickets sold, not from higher prices.
A Big Win for Fans
For fans, this is mostly good news. They get early shows back, and they don’t have to pay more for them. For exhibitors and producers, it’s a partial win, since they got the extra show but not the higher rates they asked for.
The official GO is expected soon, and it will confirm the final detaills.
