The Kerala High Court, through its appointed amicus curiae (an impartial advisor), has suggested that film reviewers should refrain from publishing their reviews within the initial 48 hours following the release of a movie. Amicus curiae Shyam Padman suggested that dedicated portals on cyber cells should be prepared to receive complaints against negative reviews.
The ongoing debate on film reviews has taken an interesting turn in Kerala High Court. For those unknown, a petition was filed in court against the recent swing of movie reviews. Now, Kerala HC's amicus curiae, Shyam Padman, has suggested the reviews posted influence people's opinions. Thus, he recommended no reviewers should post their film critiques within the first 48 hours of the movie's release.
He also stated that negative reviews are posted for which makers don't agree to pay. Following that, Padman suggested the idea of dedicated portals to prevent 'review bombing'. Earlier, there have been complaints against several vloggers who intentionally share negative reviews to get monetised.
It has also been recommended that reviewers should post constructive criticism and avoid disrespectful language, derogatory remarks or any sorts of personal attacks against the cast or crew.
The report emphasises the importance of upholding legal and ethical standards, along with maintaining professionalism. Justice Devan Ramachandran directed to include the stance of the central government in the report.
The High Court remarked that the audience is becoming increasingly aware of the validity behind negative remarks about films. Additionally, the court noted that despite such criticisms, several new films have achieved success in recent times.
