Producers vs. Influencers Drama: Are Reviewers Blackmailing Bollywood?
Hold onto your popcorn! The Indian Film and Television Producers Council (IFTPC) is throwing down the gauntlet, accusing certain social media influencers of extortion. Yes, they claim some reviewers are threatening to unleash negative reviews unless producers cough up cash. Producers are now assembling legal squads to fight back. Cue the drama!
IFTPC—representing over 375 top producers—is fed up. They say,
“Some influencers are engaging in predatory practices by threatening to release malicious and disparaging reviews… coupled with demands for payment from producers.”
If the whispers go unpaid? Revenge campaigns allegedly designed to tank a project’s box-office.
The Indian ExpressMEDIANAMA
They’re not against freedom of speech or honest critiques. But,
“These acts of extortion go far beyond legitimate reviewing and are harming the creative and economic health of the industry.”
Legal bells are ringing—civil and criminal options are on the table.
The Indian ExpressMEDIANAMA
As IMPPA President Abhay Sinha puts it,
“No one should pay for news coverage. It’s wrong and must stop.”
Meanwhile, FWICE President B. N. Tiwari laments the fallout, saying producers and media alike have helped birth this toxic trend.
mintThe Indian Express
Why You Should Care
Imagine if every critical movie review could be labeled criminal? The chilling effect on honest critique would be huge. MediaNama warns—calling negative criticism extortion flips genuine feedback into a legal battleground.
MEDIANAMA
Now the internet's buzzing:
Is this a legitimate crackdown or just industry overreach?
Influencers and fans are taking sides:
- “Are we next if we don’t like a film?”
- “Finally—some accountability!”
But no influencers have been named yet. Who will be the first to face this fire? Legal experts are watching closely.