The Ranbir Kapoor starrer Animal was one of the biggest blockbusters of 2023. The film emerged as the highest grossing ‘A’ rated Indian film of all time.
The film was produced by 3 production companies which include Bhushan Kumar’s T-Series, Murad Khetani’s Cine1 Studios and Pranay Reddy Vanga & Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Bhadrakali Pictures.
Cine1 Studios has now filed a suit in high court against T-Series for breach of contract. Cine1 Studios had a 35% profit share, but T-Series has not kept their promise. The contract stated that Cine1 Studios should have got equal space in credits (including logos) and all the promotional activities, but it did not happen according to the contract and even the Censor Certificate did not have the name of Cine1 Studios as applicant.
Cine1 Studios has seeked to put a stay in the OTT release of Animal on Netflix due to breach of the contract.
Senior Advocate who is been fighting the case for Cine1 Studios said, “Super Cassettes (T-Series) has not only released the film without the approval, consent, or consultation of the plaintiff, but it has also incurred expenses for making, promoting, and releasing the film without the plaintiff’s approval or consent and received revenues from box office sales but failed to disclose or disburse any sums to the plaintiff (Cine1 Studios).”
He further added by saying, “It also failed to ensure that the contractually agreed credits (including logos) are duly accorded and are of equal prominence in all modes of promotion as well as the film, failed to get the censor certificate issued in the joint name of the plaintiff and defendant, and failed to consult or obtain consent in regards to the marketing and publicity plan.”
While speaking on behalf of Murad Khetani, Sethi said, “They have been collecting all the money but I have not been paid a single penny. I have a long relationship with them but they have no respect for the agreement. I had the regard for the relationship and the sanctity of the contract, therefore, I did not rush to court.”
Further speaking about the amendment which was made in 2022, Sethi said, “This amendment has been concealed. They got ₹2.6 crore. They have not put a pie in the movie and yet got ₹2.6 crores”
Justice Sanjeev Narula is appointed at the Judge. Another hearing related to the case will take place on Thursday and Murad Khetani himself will be present in the court.
