บท 75: The negotiation table
The boardroom of IndoVist Films buzzed with energy. Arjun and Priya sat at one end of the long mahogany table, while Rajan and his team of executives from IndoVist Films took their seats across from them. The table was strewn with piles of paper—drafts of contracts, release schedules, marketing strategies. For Arjun, this wasn't his first time negotiating, but it was Priya's introduction to the harsh reality of the film industry.
"Alright, let's get started," Rajan said, his tone firm but courteous. "We've reviewed Dhoop Ka Saaya thoroughly. The film has promise, and we're interested in a nationwide release. However, there are some concerns we need to address."
Arjun nodded, gesturing for Priya to pay close attention. This was where the real battle began—the one that took place off-screen, in boardrooms and behind closed doors.
"What are your concerns, Rajan?" Arjun asked, his voice calm.
Rajan flipped through his papers. "First, the budget. From what we understand, the film was made on a shoestring budget of 60 lakh. While the story is compelling, we need to allocate significant funds for marketing and distribution to ensure it gets the visibility it deserves."
Arjun glanced at Priya, then back at Rajan. "We're open to discussions on marketing spend, but this is a grassroots project. We want the film to reach audiences who can connect with its raw, authentic portrayal. High-budget campaigns might dilute its essence."
"I agree with you, Mr. Gupta," Rajan said, leaning forward. "But the fact is, Dhoop Ka Saaya is directed by a newcomer. Distributors and theaters will be wary of a project without a big name attached. We need to create a balance—showcase its authenticity but with enough buzz to draw audiences."
Priya, silent until now, took a deep breath and spoke up. "What kind of campaign are you suggesting?"
Rajan glanced at her, impressed by the directness in her voice. "We're proposing a marketing budget of an additional 1.5 crore. We'll target both urban and rural areas, utilizing digital platforms, radio shows, and a few select TV spots. But this requires us to share creative control over the film's promotion and release."
Arjun raised an eyebrow. "What exactly do you mean by 'creative control'?"
Rajan exchanged a look with his marketing head before responding. "We'll need to cut a new trailer, emphasizing a broader appeal. We're also considering a few reshoots to give the film a more polished look."
Priya shifted in her seat, her discomfort evident. Arjun placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder and looked Rajan directly in the eye. "We're not reshooting anything, Rajan. The film is complete, and I stand by Priya's vision. It might not look like a high-budget Bollywood production, but that's its strength. It's raw, it's real, and it doesn't hide behind gloss."
Rajan leaned back, a thoughtful look crossing his face. "Alright. No reshoots. But we'll need to work on the pacing of the trailer. The current one is too slow—it won't hold attention. I'll need Priya to collaborate closely with our team on this."
Priya glanced at Arjun, then nodded. "I can do that. As long as the essence of the film isn't compromised, I'm willing to work on the trailer."
Rajan nodded in approval. "Good. Now, about the release schedule. We're planning for an early March release. But we have two options: a limited release in key cities, followed by a wider rollout, or a simultaneous release in both metros and select smaller towns."
Arjun rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "What's your reasoning for a limited release?"
Rajan adjusted his glasses. "We want to test the waters, get a sense of how the film is received, and build word-of-mouth before committing to a nationwide release. If the initial reception is strong, we can then expand. But this could also mean a slower momentum in smaller towns, which I know is important for you, given the film's roots."
Arjun turned to Priya. "What do you think?"
Priya hesitated, her mind racing. "I understand their point, but I want the people in our community to see it as soon as possible. This film is for them, and I don't want them to feel left out."
Arjun nodded, then turned back to Rajan. "We want a simultaneous release, Rajan. Maybe not in every city, but at least include smaller towns and the slum communities in Mumbai."
Rajan sighed, rubbing his temples. "That's a logistical challenge, but I see where you're coming from. We can explore additional screens in those areas. It'll require more coordination and expense, but let's make it happen."
The negotiations continued for hours, covering every detail from the number of screens to the distribution of revenue. Arjun remained firm but reasonable, pushing back on points that mattered while compromising on areas where it made sense. Priya, though new to this, held her ground as well, clearly articulating her vision for how the film should be presented.
Finally, as dusk settled outside, Rajan pushed the final contract across the table. "This is it. Our final proposal. A nationwide release in 150 screens, starting with Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and then expanding to smaller towns. Marketing budget is 1.5 crore, but Priya will be involved in the creative decisions. Revenue sharing is 40-60 in favor of IndoVist for the first three weeks, then moving to 50-50."
Arjun picked up the contract, reading through it carefully. He glanced at Priya, who nodded slightly. It was a tough deal, but it was the best they could get.
Arjun picked up the pen and signed his name, then slid it to Priya. She paused, taking a deep breath, and signed as well.
"Done," Arjun said, handing the contract back to Rajan.
Rajan smiled, standing up and extending his hand. "Congratulations, Mr. Gupta, Priya. Dhoop Ka Saaya is now an official IndoVist release. Let's make this film a success."
Arjun shook his hand firmly. "We will, Rajan. This is just the beginning."
As they left the boardroom, Priya turned to Arjun, her eyes shining with a mix of excitement and anxiety. "Thank you for fighting for this, Arjun. I don't know if I would have been able to hold my ground without you."
Arjun smiled, placing a hand on her shoulder. "You did great, Priya. This film is your voice, your story. You deserve this success. Now, let's get ready for the release."
With that, they stepped out into the night, the city lights of Mumbai gleaming around them. Dhoop Ka Saaya was about to make its mark on the world, and they were ready for whatever came next.
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