Scared to Go to Theaters Due to Popcorn Prices," Says Director Teja
Renowned film director Teja has highlighted the steep cost of food and beverages in cinema halls, stating that he now feels "scared" to visit a theater himself due to the exorbitant prices. He made the comments after a government-appointed committee meeting in Andhra Pradesh on Wednesday to discuss the rationalization of movie ticket prices.
"The price of popcorn is three times higher than the movie ticket. These prices must be reduced," Teja told the media. "As someone who used to go to the movies every week, I'm now hesitant because I can't watch a film without popcorn."
The meeting, held at the state secretariat, was chaired by Home Principal Secretary Kumar Vishwajeet. The committee was formed to address issues faced by the film industry and to gather suggestions on a balanced ticket pricing policy for multiplexes and single-screen theaters, including price hikes for big-budget films.
Industry representatives, including producer Vivek Kuchibhotla and distributor Saibabu, also attended the meeting.
Teja explained that the government aims to make cinema more accessible to the public while ensuring the industry remains viable. "The committee sought our advice on how to strike a balance. I shared my perspectives based on my experience in all aspects of filmmaking," he said, adding that both canteen and ticket prices were discussed.
He expressed optimism that the government would consider their suggestions before making a final decision.
"The price of popcorn is three times higher than the movie ticket. These prices must be reduced," Teja told the media. "As someone who used to go to the movies every week, I'm now hesitant because I can't watch a film without popcorn."
The meeting, held at the state secretariat, was chaired by Home Principal Secretary Kumar Vishwajeet. The committee was formed to address issues faced by the film industry and to gather suggestions on a balanced ticket pricing policy for multiplexes and single-screen theaters, including price hikes for big-budget films.
Industry representatives, including producer Vivek Kuchibhotla and distributor Saibabu, also attended the meeting.
Teja explained that the government aims to make cinema more accessible to the public while ensuring the industry remains viable. "The committee sought our advice on how to strike a balance. I shared my perspectives based on my experience in all aspects of filmmaking," he said, adding that both canteen and ticket prices were discussed.
He expressed optimism that the government would consider their suggestions before making a final decision.