Malayalam film artists to take 25 percent pay cut

KOCHI - As the first step for cutting the soaring costs of production in Malayalam film industry, film artists have agreed in principle to reduce their remuneration by 25 percent.

The Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes (AMMA) took the decision after its meeting with the Kerala Film Producers Association (KFPA) here Saturday.

Speaking to IANS, Suresh Kumar of the KFPA said the pay cut would be implemented with immediate effect and will be applicable to all those who charge Rs.3 lakh and more.

“Today, a film with any of the superstars would come to over Rs.3.5 crore. Remuneration alone would come to around 50 percent of the total cost of a film,” said Kumar, a leading producer.

The current reigning superstars in the Malayalam film are Mammootty, Mohanlal and Suresh Gopi. Mammootty and Mohan Lal reportedly charge Rs.75 lakh per film.

The AMMA was represented by its president and veteran actor Innocent and others.

“Another thing that has been accepted is that shooting will start at 7 a.m. It has also been made clear that the expenses of those who accompany the actors, will have to be met by them only. With the new guidelines, cost of a film with a superstar will come down by Rs.50 lakh,” said Kumar.

Innocent told reporters, “Another grievance of theirs (producers) was the participation of film actors on TV shows. We will take up this issue at our meeting.”

The state government intervened in the stand-off after the producers’ association decided not to shoot any new films from April 16 and films ready for release did not hit the screens.