The Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) has firmly opposed the proposed strike called by the Kerala Film Producers’ Association (KFPA), intensifying tensions between key industry bodies. The strike, which was set to begin on June 1, was planned in response to financial losses faced by producers and distributors due to high entertainment taxes and increasing actor salaries. However, AMMA has distanced itself from the move, arguing that such a strike would only worsen the financial troubles faced by the industry.
According to Indian Express, the decision was taken during a meeting at AMMA’s Kochi office on Monday, attended by around 50 members, including leading actors Mohanlal, Mammootty, Suresh Gopi, Tovino Thomas, Manju Pillai, Bindu Panicker, Basil Joseph, and Joju George. In an official statement, AMMA asserted, “AMMA members have decided not to extend support to the strike called by a section of Malayalam film producers.” AMMA’s official Instagram handle also shared a story mentioning that they won’t be supporting the strike.
The actors’ body further expressed concerns over the potential impact of the strike, stating that the Malayalam film industry is already struggling due to financial setbacks. The association emphasized that a strike would only worsen the situation, affecting not only the producers but also thousands of workers dependent on the industry.
On the issue of rising actor remuneration, AMMA clarified that any decision would be taken only after its upcoming general body meeting. However, it reiterated its willingness to engage in discussions with any industry body focused on the welfare and growth of Malayalam cinema.
Meanwhile, AMMA also addressed the ongoing controversy over the legal notice issued by KFPA against Jayan Cherthala, a member of its ad-hoc committee. KFPA had objected to Jayan’s claim that the producers’ association had sought financial assistance from AMMA. In response, AMMA assured full legal support to Jayan, indirectly confirming his statement that KFPA had requested ₹1 crore for constructing an office—an amount that AMMA had provided but remains unpaid.
Recently Jayan Cherthala slammed the Kerala Film Producer’s Association via a media interaction. He said, “AMMA will not stand by while the producers’ association tarnishes its members. Actors negotiate their remuneration before committing to a film, so blaming them for industry losses is unjust. Superstardom is the most important factor in any cinema. This is not limited to Malayalam cinema, even in world cinema this is the criteria. When we release a poster with the faces of superstars like Mohanlal and Mammootty, the producers feel confident that the audiences will pay for the ticket to watch the film. Even the heads of this producers association, for example, Suresh Kumar have made movies like ‘Aaram Thampuran’ that turned out to be superhits. He has utlized Mohanlal’s stardom to its best. During those times such people didn’t have any complaints. Now several new producers are using new actors for their films which turn out to be superhits. The list that the producers association unveiled has some movies that were only newly released and also that movies that no one has even heard of. They simply want to fool the general public and say that films are failing since actors are charging heavy fees.”