The cinema exhibition sector in Tamil Nadu is seeking major policy reforms, and Tamil Nadu exhibitors are now placing their hopes on newly elected Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay. Following his swearing-in on May 10, 2026, theatre owners and industry stakeholders have been actively engaging with the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam chief, seeking progressive reforms to strengthen the struggling theatre business across the state.
24-Hour Theatre Operations Requested
One of the key demands from Tamil Nadu exhibitors is permission to operate theatres on a 24-hour basis, allowing round-the-clock screenings depending on market demand and audience response. Theatre owners believe this move could significantly boost revenues, especially during the release of highly anticipated big-star films. The flexibility to schedule shows based on real-time demand would help exhibitors maximize earnings during peak release periods.
Reviving the FDFS Tradition
Theatre associations have made emotional appeals to the new administration to officially revive the long-celebrated tradition of 4:00 AM and 5:00 AM First-Day-First-Show (FDFS) screenings. These early morning shows were banned in Tamil Nadu for three years, with theatres typically allowed to begin screenings only from 10:30 AM or 11:00 AM. While CM Vijay recently approved 9:00 AM shows for select releases, exhibitors and fans feel that the iconic 4-5 AM FDFS screenings are an integral part of Tamil cinema culture and play a crucial role in creating massive release-day excitement.
Kamal Haasan’s Six-Point Blueprint
Meanwhile, veteran actor and filmmaker Kamal Haasan also met Chief Minister Vijay in a high-profile interaction. During the meeting, Kamal Haasan presented his much-discussed Six-Point Blueprint for reviving Tamil cinema. According to reports, the proposals include a state-owned OTT platform offering affordable access to Tamil films, abolition of the 4% local body entertainment tax, a mandatory 8-week OTT release window to protect theatrical revenues, a dedicated anti-piracy unit, and production incentives of up to 10% for films shot primarily in Tamil Nadu.
With both exhibitors and industry veterans rallying for reform, the Tamil film industry is watching closely to see how the new government under Thalapathy Vijay’s leadership responds to these pressing demands in the coming months.