In a bid to curb the influence of biased reviews and prevent what’s commonly known as “review bombing” on social media platforms, an amicus curiae appointed by the Kerala High Court has recommended a significant change in the way movies are critiqued. According to the report submitted by Shyam Padman, films should not be subject to reviews within the first 48 hours of their release.
This move aims to allow viewers the opportunity to form their own unbiased opinions without being swayed by premature critiques, some of which may be driven by ulterior motives. There’s a growing concern that negative reviews, often fueled by personal agendas or financial incentives, could unfairly impact a film’s box office performance.
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Padman’s report also proposes the establishment of a dedicated portal within cyber cells to address complaints related to review bombings, offering a formal channel for aggrieved parties to seek recourse. Additionally, reviewers, including vloggers, are urged to adopt a constructive approach, focusing on providing meaningful criticism rather than resorting to derogatory language or personal attacks against filmmakers and actors.
The High Court, echoing these sentiments, emphasized the importance of maintaining legal and ethical standards in movie reviews. Justice Devan Ramachandran underscored the need to convey the central government’s stance on the matter, highlighting the significance of professionalism in film criticism.
Moreover, the court noted a positive trend wherein audiences are becoming increasingly discerning, recognizing the disparity between genuine feedback and malicious commentary. Despite negative remarks, recent films have managed to achieve success, indicating a shift in public perception.
Instances of deliberate efforts to malign newly released movies have prompted action from authorities. Kochi City Police, responding to a complaint filed by the director of Rahel Makan Kora, initiated an investigation into alleged attempts to degrade the film on various social media platforms. This development underscores the growing significance of regulating online discourse surrounding cinema.
With the Kerala High Court taking proactive steps to address the issue of biased reviews, the film industry may witness a more transparent and fair evaluation process, ultimately benefiting both filmmakers and audiences alike.
