HC restrains producers of TN film from screening it

The Madras High Court today ruled that producers of the Vishal-starrer 'Madha Gaja Raja' could seek release of the film if they deposit a bank guarantee for Rs 22.8 lakh and restrained them from releasing it till such time.
Justice R Sudhakar, who passed the orders on a civil suit, filed by Melbourne based Additude Advertising Limited, restrained the producers from releasing the film for public viewing anywhere in the world and also confirming satellite and other rights.
The firm's Managing Director K K Santhanam claimed he provided all services including shooting and accommodation for production of the film in Australia.

He also contended that as per the agreement, the producers had only paid an amount of Australian dollar 51,000 and not yet paid the balance 72,000 dollars.
In their reply, the producers said Santhanam has not provided the facilities as agreed by him and they were compelled to approach another firm to complete their shooting.
Justice R Sudhakar said after benefiting from the services rendered by Santhanam in Australia, the producers cannot renege on their promise to him.
As the quantum of payment is only in dispute, to safeguard the claim of Santhanam and to protect interests of the producers as well, the Judge directed the producers to furnish a bank guarantee of 50 per cent towards the claim amount which works to Rs 22.8 lakh and seek the film's release.