OTT Platforms vs Theaters: The Future of Entertainment

The ongoing pandemic and subsequent lockdowns have significantly impacted the entertainment sector, particularly cinemas. However, the shift towards Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms has been a game-changer, offering a unique and convenient alternative for moviegoers. This article explores the current and future trends in the entertainment industry, analyzing the roles of theaters and OTT platforms.

Impact of the Pandemic on the Entertainment Sector

The lockdowns brought about by the pandemic have led to the closure of cinema halls and multiplexes, resulting in the shutdown of production houses and the cancellation of shoots. This disruption has prompted a rapid growth in the popularity of OTT platforms. Streaming services have provided a much-needed alternative, making entertainment more accessible and convenient. The 'faithful Fridays' of movie theaters are a thing of the past, but the streaming of movies has not slowed down, showcasing the resilience of the entertainment industry.

The Emergence of OTT Platforms

Over-the-Top (OTT) digital platforms, such as Prime Video, Netflix, Disney , and Eros Now, have stepped up to fill the void left by traditional theaters. These platforms offer a wide range of movies, TV shows, and documentaries, making entertainment accessible at the touch of a button. With the convenience of a mobile phone and an internet connection, viewers can enjoy content from the comfort of their homes. The lockdowns have further cemented the popularity of these platforms, with the average time spent by Indian subscribers increasing from around 20 to 50 minutes to at least one hour.

Future of Movie Making and Watching

As the pandemic drags on, the future of movie making and watching looks set to be profoundly influenced by the rise of OTT platforms. The production of movies will likely continue to be divided into two main categories. Comedy, romance, and chick flicks will predominantly be made for OTT platforms, while action movies, such as those from Marvel, James Bond, and Fast Furious franchises, will be released in theaters first. This strategy ensures that the majority of audiences can enjoy these films in a safe and comfortable environment. Nevertheless, as theaters struggle to survive with a limited number of big releases, the integration of OTT platforms will become increasingly crucial.

The shift to OTT platforms is not just a temporary reprieve but a permanent change. With the emergence of OTT platforms, theaters may become more exclusive or luxury experiences. Audiences can watch both new releases and classics on a combination of OTT platforms and Direct-to-Home (DTH) services, all from the comfort of their homes. The affordability and convenience of these services make them attractive alternatives to traditional theaters, potentially reshaping the way we perceive and consume entertainment.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The film industry, much like any other, is facing significant challenges due to the pandemic. With potential losses amounting to around INR 30 billion, it is crucial for production houses to adapt and leverage the power of OTT platforms. The shift towards digital entertainment is a necessity, and it's time for the industry to embrace this new reality. The big production houses should start exploring collaborations with OTT platforms to generate revenue and ensure their survival in the evolving entertainment landscape.

Key Takeaways: OTT platforms have emerged as the savior of the entertainment sector, providing more convenient and accessible options for moviegoers. The production of movies will continue to be divided into two main categories, catering to OTT and theatrical releases. As theaters become more exclusive or luxury experiences, OTT platforms will become the new normal for the majority of entertainment consumption. Production houses should explore collaborations with OTT platforms to ensure their survival in the post-pandemic era.

References: Hindustan Times