Rajinikanth’s much-anticipated film Jailer 2 has encountered a major release setback in North India, with multiplex chains PVR INOX and Cinepolis opting not to screen the film across the region. The decision comes as a disagreement over the movie’s theatrical-to-OTT release window affects its availability for audiences on its opening day, October 15, 2026.

AdvertisementThe Puranic

Directed by Nelson Dilipkumar and produced by Sun Pictures, Jailer 2 has arrived in theatres worldwide. However, viewers in North India may face fewer multiplex options for watching the action thriller, particularly in its Hindi-dubbed version. According to The Indian Express, both major chains had already indicated that they would not screen the dubbed Hindi version.

The dispute centres on the film’s planned digital release timeline. Sun Pictures, the production banner owned by Kalanithi Maran, reportedly reached an agreement with an OTT platform to make the film available in all languages within four weeks of its theatrical release. The relatively short window has become a point of contention in negotiations with major cinema exhibitors.

A four-week gap between a theatrical premiere and streaming availability can influence how exhibitors assess a film’s potential box-office performance. Multiplex chains may be concerned that audiences could choose to wait for the digital release rather than purchase cinema tickets, although the supplied report does not provide the exhibitors’ complete explanation for their decision.

As a result, audiences in North India may have to look for screenings at single-screen cinemas or select multiplexes that have chosen to show the film. Availability is likely to vary by city and theatre, making local listings important for viewers planning to watch the sequel.

The development highlights the continuing tension between theatrical exhibitors and streaming platforms over release windows. While producers and digital services may seek earlier streaming access, cinema chains have an interest in protecting the period during which a film is available exclusively in theatres.

For Jailer 2, the disagreement has created an additional hurdle at launch, even as Rajinikanth’s return to the franchise draws attention from fans. The film’s wider theatrical reach in North India will depend partly on which cinemas decide to screen it despite the dispute.