Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated India’s pioneering state-run over-the-top (OTT) platform named ‘CSpace’ in Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday. Managed by the Kerala State Film Development Corporation (KSFDC), CSpace is set to revolutionize the streaming landscape by offering a curated selection of films, documentaries, and shorts with profound artistic and cultural significance.
According to sources familiar with the matter, CSpace aims to showcase a diverse array of content, including award-winning films and those that have garnered acclaim at major international film festivals but haven’t received widespread theatrical releases.
A panel of 60 distinguished experts has been appointed by KSFDC to evaluate submissions to the platform. Each piece of content will undergo scrutiny by a panel of three members to determine its artistic merit and suitability for screening on CSpace.
In its initial phase, CSpace is set to feature 42 films, comprising 35 feature films, six documentaries, and one short film. The platform is accessible for download on both Android and iOS devices, providing users with seamless streaming experiences.
CSpace Goes Innovative as a pay-per-view channel
One of the most innovative aspects of CSpace is its pay-per-view model. Users can access films for just Rs.75, with even lower prices for short films. Notably, half of the proceeds from each viewing will directly benefit the content creator, ensuring a fair distribution of revenue.
Chairman of KSFDC and acclaimed filmmaker Shaji N Karun described the innovative OTT platform as a significant cultural initiative, aimed at elevating the quality of audience engagement. He emphasized the platform’s commitment to showcasing diverse and unique Malayalam cinema to a global audience, aiming to alter audience preferences and nurture appreciation for non-mainstream content.
The state-run OTT platform arrives at a pivotal moment for Malayalam cinema, which has been gaining traction across India and internationally, thanks to the popularity of existing OTT giants like Netflix and Amazon Prime. Renowned for its realistic storytelling and content-driven narratives, Malayalam cinema has the potential to transcend linguistic barriers and attract a broader audience base.
Karun emphasized OTT platform creator-friendly approach, highlighting the platform’s dedication to supporting filmmakers and ensuring equitable revenue sharing. With nearly 50% of revenue allocated to cover technical expenses and the remainder directed to the content creator, CSpace promises to be a lucrative avenue for filmmakers while safeguarding their intellectual rights.
As India’s first state-run OTT platform, CSpace is poised to redefine the streaming landscape, offering audiences a curated selection of compelling cinema while empowering filmmakers and promoting cultural diversity.