Chennai theatre’s high ticket prices for Vijay’s ‘GOAT’ spark outrage and legal complaint

A popular theatre in Chennai has faced widespread backlash for selling tickets to Thalapathy Vijay’s upcoming film, “The Greatest of All Time (GOAT),” at a steep price of Rs 390, which includes GST, coupled with a mandatory food purchase. This pricing decision has sparked a wave of criticism on social media platforms, as fans express their frustration over what they perceive as exploitation of the high demand surrounding the film’s release.

Controversy and social media backlash

The controversy around the ticket pricing for “GOAT” intensified as several fans took to social media to express their anger. Many fans pointed out that the ticket prices far exceed the government-mandated rates, alleging that the theatre is taking undue advantage of the film’s hype. A formal complaint was filed with the Chennai Police Commissioner by a social activist, calling for stringent action against theatres overcharging for tickets. The complaint also highlighted the need to regulate unauthorized shows running outside permitted hours, demanding a crackdown on these practices to ensure fairness for all viewers​.

‘GOAT’: The highly anticipated film

Despite the controversy, “GOAT” remains one of the most highly anticipated films of 2024. Directed by Venkat Prabhu, the movie stars Vijay, Prashanth, Prabhu Deva, Sneha, and Meenakshi Chaudhary, among others. The film is set for a grand release on September 5, 2024, and has generated significant buzz with early morning shows scheduled as early as 4 AM in certain locations. The film’s soundtrack, composed by Yuvan Shankar Raja, is already a hit among fans, adding to the film’s appeal​.

Satellite and OTT rights deals

Adding to the excitement, “GOAT” has secured lucrative deals for its satellite and OTT rights. Zee Studios acquired the satellite rights for a substantial sum of Rs 93 crore, while the film’s OTT rights have also been locked in at a premium price. These deals reflect the high expectations around the film’s performance both in theatres and on digital platforms​.

While the controversy over ticket pricing and unauthorized shows continues to unfold, the excitement for Vijay’s “GOAT” remains undiminished. Fans are eager to see if the film, directed by Venkat Prabhu and featuring a stellar cast and crew, will live up to its high expectations and deliver a memorable cinematic experience.