Animal OTT Release: Co-producer files case

Ranbir Kapoor's much-anticipated film, 'Animal,' directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, has found itself entangled in a legal controversy just days before its scheduled OTT release on Netflix. Cine 1 Studios Private Limited, claiming to be one of the co-producers, has filed a case against T-Series, a major producer of the blockbuster movie, alleging a breach of the profit-sharing agreement. The case, currently in the Delhi High Court, has raised concerns over the film's online release and the announced sequel, 'Animal Park.'

Legal Battle Unfolds:

Cine 1 Studios has asserted that T-Series failed to uphold various clauses outlined in a 2019 Acquisition Agreement and an amendment agreement related to 'Animal.' Alleged breaches prompted Cine 1 to approach the Delhi High Court, seeking a stay on the Netflix release and challenging the announcement of the sequel, 'Animal Park.' The case came before a single-judge bench of Justice Sanjeev Narula on Monday, intensifying the legal battle surrounding the film.

Claims and Counterclaims:

Senior advocate Sandeep Sethi, representing Cine 1 Studios, argued that his client had not received any information about the film's revenues, including box office sales, digital, and satellite rights. He claimed that Cine 1 had not been paid a single penny, despite a profit-sharing agreement entitling them to a 35% share and intellectual property rights from 'Animal.' The allegations center on the supposed non-disclosure of crucial financial details.

In response, T-Series' lawyer, senior advocate Amit Sibal, contended that Cine 1 had no financial investment in the film. He presented documents indicating that both parties executed agreements on August 22, amending the Acquisition Agreement from 2019. Sibal accused Cine 1 of concealing vital information and revealed that T-Series had paid Rs 2.6 crore to Cine 1, a fact allegedly undisclosed by the production house.

Court Proceedings and Next Steps:

During the court proceedings, Justice Sanjeev Narula questioned Cine 1's lawyer about the alleged payment of Rs 2.6 crore, to which the lawyer confessed his lack of awareness. The court set January 18 as the next date of hearing, with Cine 1 instructed to ensure the presence of its authorized signatory, Murad Khetani, for further clarification.

Impact on OTT Release:

The legal dispute adds uncertainty to the OTT release of 'Animal,' scheduled for January 26 on Netflix. As the court proceedings unfold, it remains to be seen whether the case will affect the film's online debut and the subsequent release of 'Animal Park.' Despite being Ranbir Kapoor's biggest career hit, 'Animal' faces challenges beyond the box office, entering the realm of legal complexities and contractual disputes.