The digital streaming business is booming amidst the pandemic and its coexistence with movie theatres is going to cause some friction. An example of this could be seen in the case of Akshay Kumar's 'Bell Bottom'. Makers are wishing to release the film OTT just 20 days after the theatrical release. Apparently theatre owners aren't happy with the decision and are willing to boycott the release.

According to an exhibitor, "We have been speaking to the team of Bell Bottom regarding the terms of release. While we understand that the producers are taking a risk, they need to realise that cinema halls are bleeding the most. How and why will the audience come to watch a film on the big screen, if it's premiering on OTT in 2 weeks."

A source told Bollywood Hungama, "The multiplex associations are against the idea of film releasing on OTT within 20 days. They are holding their ground asking the makers to ensure a gap of at least 28 days. If the makers take steps otherwise, the national chains wouldn't release Bell Bottom across their screens. They feel it's unfair and will set a wrong precedent for all upcoming releases. The multiplex owners agreeing to this would mean, the entire slate of forthcoming releases would also release on digital platforms within 2 to 3 weeks, meaning a solid loss of revenue for the cinema owners."