Mollywood bans mobile phones during shoots

Mollywood's two influential associations Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA) and the Producers Association decided on Monday to ban the use of mobile phones during shoots of all Malayalam movies.

"Barring production executives and the producer, no one can use a mobile during the time of shooting. There is no problem in using it during shooting breaks," FEFKA general secretary B. Unnikrishnan told reporters, adding that the use of mobile phones had become a menace during shooting.

The decision came after a meeting between the two associations in Kochi to discuss means to reduce the cost of film production in face of dwindling profit margins. "The recommendations that were discussed included limiting the shooting period to a maximum of 45 days per film and an upper limit to the quantity of film roll that can be used," Unnikrishnan said.

He said a 14-member committee, which will also include the actors? group?the Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes?will look into all proposals discussed in the meeting. A final guideline would be ready after the committee clears the proposals.