Film industry crippled by piracy, cliched themes

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Leaving behind a "disastrous" year, the Telugu film industry is looking
ahead with optimism, thanks to the success of two low-budget films Missamma
and Satyam towards the end of the year. Video piracy, competition from
satellite channels, overdoing of films targeting the youth segment and
spiralling production and exhibition costs are cited as the main reasons for
the disaster. The other main reason is the so called `youth trend'. There's
a flood of movies targeting the youth, with clichéd themes. People with
little experience and understanding of the industry have become directors
and actors. Viewers are a confused lot. They see a new face every other day,
acting in movies with similar titles. Video piracy had made a severe dent
into the revenues of films. The loss can be put anywhere between Rs 100
crore and Rs 150 crore. Industry was not the sole loser. The State
Government, too, got affected in the form of lesser tax collections.

Source:
http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2004/01/01/stories/2004010101241700.htm