In the wake of the Coronavirus pandemic, the Central and State Governments in India decided to impose a complete lockdown in the country to curb the impact and spread of the novel COVID-19. Owing to the shutdown, several industries including showbiz have faced a major setback. With releases postponed and pre-scheduled shoots stalled, producers and filmmakers are bearing the brunt of the losses of the investments made. Amongst several films, Ajay Devgn's sports-drama Maidaan is reportedly in dire straits due to the lockdown. As per reports, the director of the project, Amit R Sharma had prepared the set to shoot the football matches. According to the source close to the development, make-up room, Production Control Room, etc were in place. However, due to the sudden change in the situation, the makers are said to face a considerable financial setback. The makeshift set reportedly cost the makers Rs.7 crores.
"Amit R Sharma was to shoot the last schedule, which focused on all the football matches that will be shown in the film. The set was complete with toilets, make-up rooms and a Production Control Room in place. With the set standing unused, there will be a considerable financial setback," the source told a leading daily.
Talking about the impact the current crisis scenario will have on Maidaan and its sets, the source told that after the Coronavirus lockdown is lifted on May 3, chances of the rains causing damage remains high. In addition, the schedule reportedly requires foreign artists to be present and their availability is subject to the situation in their respective countries. "If exposed to rains, the set will need a complete overhaul. Plus, the schedule requires foreign actors and technicians. Their availability will depend on the condition in their countries. Coordinating everything will be a logistical nightmare," the source added.
Maidaan orbits around the golden years of Indian football between 1951 and 1962. The film is presented by Zee Studios and Boney Kapoor. It is produced by Boney, Akash Chawla and Arunava Joy Sengupta. The screenplay and dialogues are written by Saiwyn Quadros and Ritesh Shah respectively. Maidaan, apart from Ajay, stars Priyamani and is scheduled to release on December 11, 2020.
(Source: Mid-Day)
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