In past years, at least 9 to 10 films got released for Pongal and Deepavali. Out of those, at least 2 would be super hits. Some half a dozen of them would make fairly decent profits. For the last few years, all this has turned topsy turvy.
Those films that advertise a Pongal or Deepavali release, pull out of the competition at the last minute.
Those films that brave a festival release, somehow end up biting the dust. That's the trend in recent times.
'Bheema,' 'Kaalai,' 'Pazhani,' 'Pidichirukku,' 'Pirivom Sandhippom' and 'Vazhthukkal' are still running after being released for Pongal. A person with long experience in the distribution field admits that the returns are not quite satisfactory.
Using this opportunity, Vadivelu film 'Indiralogathil Na Azhagappan' and Prasanna in 'Sadhu Miranda' are to be released soon. The producers of the Pongal releases are scared that the release of these films would further affect whatever collection is coming in.
Those in the field, affirm that the Vadivelu film is a challenge even to a strong film like 'Bheema.'