Suriya's upcoming Tamil film "Scene" could become one of the first major releases to benefit if Tamil Nadu restores its early-morning first-day-first-show (FDFS) screenings. With the film scheduled to hit theatres on November 6 for Deepavali, speculation is growing over a possible return of 6 am shows after a gap of more than three years.


However, the proposed change is yet to receive official approval, and it remains uncertain whether "Scene" will get an early-morning opening. According to reports discussions about bringing back 6 am screenings have gathered momentum ahead of the festive season. While some reports suggest that the change could come into effect in time for the Deepavali releases, no official government order has confirmed the move.

Film industry seeks permission for 6 am shows

The discussion gained fresh momentum after representatives of Tamil cinema held a meeting with Tamil Nadu Information and Publicity Minister A. Rajmohan on October 29. Representatives from the Tamil Nadu Theatre and Multiplex Owners Association, the Tamil Nadu Film Distributors Federation, the Tamil Film Producers Council and the Tamil Film Active Producers Association were part of the discussions.


The delegation reportedly sought permission to begin the first shows of major releases at 6 am. The industry has also requested that theatres be allowed to operate from 6 am until 2 am, giving exhibitors greater flexibility in scheduling screenings.


Producer G. Dhananjeyan, who attended the meeting, said the current system was affecting the industry's box-office prospects because audiences in other markets often watch films before viewers in Tamil Nadu.


The industry believes that restoring early-morning shows would help Tamil films compete more effectively with releases in neighbouring states and overseas markets. 


Dhananjeyan also suggested that the extended operating hours could facilitate around 1,200 additional screenings daily across the state.


The proposals would be forwarded to Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay for approval before any changes are announced. Therefore, the industry's demand should not be mistaken for a confirmed policy decision.

Also read: Scene



Why were early-morning shows stopped in Tamil Nadu?

Early-morning screenings were once an integral part of major Tamil film releases, particularly those featuring leading stars such as Vijay and Ajith Kumar. Some films had midnight or pre-dawn screenings, drawing huge crowds of fans eager to celebrate their favourite stars' releases.

However, the practice came under scrutiny during the Pongal releases of Vijay's "Varisu" and Ajith's "Thunivu" in January 2023.

A 19-year-old fan died after falling from a moving lorry during celebrations associated with the release of the films in Chennai. The incident, along with concerns over fan clashes and public disruption, led to restrictions on early-morning screenings.


Since then, 9 am has generally been the earliest permitted starting time for first-day screenings of major releases in Tamil Nadu, subject to applicable rules and permissions. The restrictions significantly changed the opening-day experience for fans of Tamil cinema's biggest stars.


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Deepavali releases add to the anticipation

The timing of the industry's request has made the issue particularly relevant this year, with several major films lined up for the Deepavali season.


Scene, directed by Jithu Madhavan, is scheduled for release on November 6. The film brings Suriya together with the Malayalam filmmaker known for "Romancham" and "Aavesham". Nazriya Nazim and Naslen Gafoor play key roles, with the film expected to combine comedy and thriller elements.


Nayanthara's "Mookuthi Amman 2" is also scheduled to arrive on November 6, while "Ramayana: Part 1", featuring Ranbir Kapoor and Sai Pallavi, is slated for a November 5 release.


Will Scene benefit from the proposed change?

If the government approves the proposal in time, "Scene" could benefit from the return of early-morning FDFS screenings in Tamil Nadu. An earlier start would allow fans to watch the film before online reviews and audience reactions from other markets begin influencing its opening-day reception.


However, reports also say that the proposed change could instead be implemented for Dhanush's Om, scheduled for November 20. This adds uncertainty over whether the Deepavali releases will benefit from any relaxation in the rules.


For now, the industry awaits an official announcement. Whether "Scene" will get a 6 am opening or continue with the existing schedule remains to be seen. The decision could mark a significant change in Tamil Nadu's theatrical exhibition landscape, particularly for major star-driven releases, if the government decides to restore the early-morning FDFS tradition.