We had previously reported that Suriya's much-awaited film Soorari Pottru will be bypassing a theatrical release and premiere on Amazon Prime Video on October 31. While many welcomed the move of a film headlined by a star opting for an online release, some, predominantly theatre owners, criticised the actor for his decision. The latest to join this bandwagon is director Hari, who released a strongly-worded statement online expressing his disappointment over the decision to not release the film in theatres. 

"I am sharing this with you based on the relationship I have from working with you for so long. As a fan, I would like to see your film in the theatre and not on an OTT platform. Let's not forget that the adulation we got for our films from the audience who watched in theatres is the reason we are where we are now. Cinema, being our profession, is a God to us. God might be omnipresent, but it is only appropriate to showcase it in a temple called theatre. That is where a maker's creativity and hardwork gets an identity. I understand the trouble producers are currently enduring, but if you can reconsider your decision to releasing the film online, your name and fame would stand tall as long as cinema exists," read the statement. 

Hari had previously worked with Suriya in films like Aaru, Vel, and the Singam franchise. While it was earlier announced that the duo will come together once again for a film titled Aruvaa, sources suggest that Arun Vijay has replaced Suriya in the film.