Kochi: Two weeks after a directive from the Kerala High Court to investigate alleged foul play, especially on social media, during film releases, the Ernakulam Central police has registered the first case related to this issue. The case involves the registration of charges against nine individuals and entities, including Facebook, YouTube, and seven others. This development has come in response to a complaint by film director Ubaini Ebrahim, who noticed a flood of negative reviews on social media platforms following the release of his Malayalam film “Rahel Makan Kora.”
The High Court’s Intervention:
This legal action follows a petition filed by Mubeen Rauf, the director of “Aromalinte Adyathe Pranayam,” who believed that his film had suffered due to alleged foul play by vloggers who negatively reviewed the movie. The Kerala High Court took cognizance of the matter and called for checks and balances in such situations. The court sought to understand if individuals or entities could file complaints against activities like “Review Bombing” that are motivated and calculated. The court emphasized that the investigation should focus on cases where reviews are made solely for the purpose of extortion and blackmail.
Charges Registered Against Social Media Giants and Others:
The Ernakulam Central police have initiated an investigation and filed charges against nine parties in response to the complaint by Ubaini Ebrahim. This significant step in the case indicates the seriousness with which the authorities are addressing the issue of ‘Review Bombing’ on social media.
The Alleged ‘Review Bombing’ Incident:
Film director Ubaini Ebrahim brought the issue to the police’s attention after discovering that his newly released Malayalam film, “Rahel Makan Kora,” was inundated with negative reviews on social media platforms. This negative publicity was seen as detrimental to the film’s success and the reputation of the filmmakers. The actions of these social media users were perceived as an attempt to tarnish the film’s image and hinder its success.
The Kerala High Court’s Directive:
The Kerala High Court’s involvement in this matter stemmed from a petition filed by Mubeen Rauf, director of “Aromalinte Adyathe Pranayam.” Rauf suspected that the negative impact his film received was a result of foul play orchestrated by vloggers and online reviewers. The court, upon hearing this petition, stressed the need for checks and balances in these situations. It also sought clarification on whether individuals or entities could file complaints against activities like ‘Review Bombing.’ The court’s directive underscored the importance of investigating cases where reviews are motivated and calculated for the purpose of extortion and blackmail.
Differentiating Between Genuine and Motivated Reviews:
The Kerala High Court’s directive highlighted an essential distinction. The State Police Chief was called upon to take action specifically against cases of motivated and calculated reviews made with the intention of extortion and blackmail. Genuine reviews, offered in good faith, were not to be treated in the same manner. This clarification ensures that the focus of the investigation is on malicious activities rather than legitimate and honest opinions shared on social media.
The Role of Social Media Giants:
The charges filed by the Ernakulam Central police in the case include prominent social media platforms like Facebook and YouTube. These platforms have been accused of being instrumental in hosting and promoting negative reviews that may have harmed the reputation of the films in question. This highlights the broader responsibility of social media companies in maintaining the integrity of their platforms and preventing abuse.
The Impact on Filmmakers and the Industry:
The occurrence of ‘Review Bombing’ can have severe consequences for filmmakers and the film industry as a whole. Unfair and malicious reviews can damage a film’s success, leading to financial losses and harm to the reputations of those involved in the production. Such activities may discourage filmmakers and potentially impact the quality and diversity of content being produced.
Conclusion:
The actions taken by the Ernakulam Central police in response to complaints from filmmakers regarding ‘Review Bombing’ on social media represent a significant step towards addressing this issue. The Kerala High Court’s directive, differentiating between genuine and motivated reviews, ensures that the investigation focuses on malicious activities while protecting the right to free expression and honest opinions. The involvement of social media giants in this case underscores the importance of their role in maintaining the integrity of their platforms and preventing abuse. Addressing ‘Review Bombing’ is vital not only to protect the interests of filmmakers but also to maintain the quality and diversity of content in the film industry.
