TL;DR: Dharma Productions has stopped advance press screenings starting with Alia Bhatt’s Jigra, claiming unfair reviews and media manipulation. But insiders reveal that the issue goes both ways—production houses plant positive leaks and pay for stories, while some journalists engage in blackmail to extort money for favorable coverage. This toxic media-production relationship has created a cycle of mistrust and exploitation.
⚔️ Media & Movies: Both Sides Playing Dirty?
Industry insiders say it’s not just media houses causing the chaos—production companies like Dharma also leak positive stories and influence narratives to sway public opinion 🗞️. On the other hand, some journalists hit below the belt, blackmailing studios with threats of negative press unless they’re paid 💸. This constant back-and-forth has made it impossible for filmmakers to trust media coverage, prompting Dharma’s move to cut off early access to films.
🎬 Jigra’s Controversy—The Tipping Point?
The decision comes amid the storm around Jigra, with rumors of Karan Johar taking over the project fueling media speculation 🌪️. Dharma’s frustration with biased and manipulative reporting seems to have reached a boiling point, leading to the decision to scrap press screenings entirely.
💡 MediaFx Opinion: Time for Reform on Both Ends
The solution isn’t to end press screenings but to reform both media practices and production strategies. Media houses must stop blackmailing filmmakers, while studios need to stop planting fake leaks. Trust between media and the industry can only return if honest journalism and fair promotions become the norm. Right now, the fight feels less about art and more about who controls the narrative.
What’s your take? Should production houses ban press screenings or find better ways to manage media? Share below! 👇
