Earlier this week, Yash Raj Films was officially announced as the overseas distributor of King, which is produced by Red Chillies Entertainment and Marflix Pictures, and stars the father-daughter duo of Shah Rukh Khan and Suhana Khan. After this, now the discussion about domestic distribution of the film is in full swing in the trade.
According to trade sources, several major distribution studios are in competition for the India rights, including AA Films, Yash Raj Films (distribution), Jio Studios, PVRINOX Pictures, Penn Marudhar and Dharma Productions. Of these, Penn Marudhar, Jio Studios and PVRINOX are considered to be the frontrunners at this stage, although no formal announcement has been made yet.
The proposed top offer is understood to be worth Rs. 200 crore advance with 8 percent delivery commission, making it one of the largest commission-based offers in recent times. The commission-based distribution deal is in line with the prevailing industry norms, as in modern times, the acquisition model has been left behind. Most studios either have an in-house distribution team or they partner with independent distributors on a commission basis.
Strengthening Penn Marudhar’s case is his continued association in recent years with Red Chillies Entertainment, who are also distributing Shah Rukh Khan’s last two films, Jawan and Donkey. The latter was a bit tense due to a confrontation with Salaar, during which Penn Marudhar secured the upper hand for Dinky in the showboating.
PVRINOX, on the other hand, has previously created some personalized segments for Red Chillies Entertainment and even Penn Marudhar. Being the owner of the country’s largest multiplex chain works in his favour. Jio Studios is also aggressively venturing into distribution, and is eager to follow suit with King, setting up a solid slate of theatrical releases in 2026, starting with Dhurandhar 2 and aiming to conclude with King.
‘King’, directed by ‘Pathan’ fame Siddharth Anand, is scheduled to release in India on December 24. Hollywood tentpoles Avengers: Doomsday and Dune: Part Three are scheduled to arrive a week early. Although there is no direct conflict, there may be minor skirmishes for show, so strong distribution may be important. A decision and official announcement on this is expected soon.
Also read: Decoding Economics of Dhurandhar: Ranveer Singh’s film made a profit of Rs 300 crore!
