MUMBAI: Even as the deadline of 4 April approaches, the day from when no new films would be released in multiplexes, the stalemate between the producers and multiplex exhibitors continues. Contrary to the belief, no meetings were held between the two parties.

The no-hurry approach is obvious. No big films are slated for release during the course of the Indian Premier League (IPL) which has a tournament window between 18 April and 24 May.

"We have been approached by a few independent producers, but have not signed up with them. Only Percept Picture Company has offered its whole slate of films to us. The big film producers have stayed adamant," says E-City Ventures managing director Atul Goel.

Film producers have demanded for a higher pound of revenue share from multiplex exhibitors, something that would weigh heavily on the profitability of a sector that is still investing to expand reach and struggling to up ticket rates.

Says 24 Karat Multiplex CEO Padam Sacheti, "Both the parties are adamant, with neither side wanting a solution. Film producers want a 50 per cent share in the revenues for the first three weeks. Right now they are getting 50 per cent in the first week, 38 per cent in the second week and 28 per cent in the third week. We are ready to give them a 50 per cent share for all the initial three weeks, but based on the performance grade."

The exhibitors had bowed to Yash Raj Films last year as the production house had command over a content pipe that included Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, Dostana, Roadside Romeo, Bachna Ae Haseeno, Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic, Tashan and Krazzy 4. But with the entire heap of producers joining hands, the multiplexes prefer to get into a tug-of-war situation.