The excitement around Suriya and Trisha Krishnan’s new movie Karuppu turned to disappointment on May 14, 2026. The film was set to hit theaters worldwide, but just hours before the first show, nearly all screenings were canceled. This sudden move left fans confused and angry. In response, top stars like Dhanush and Dulquer Salmaan spoke up, asking for the movie to get the release it deserves.
All Shows Canceled After Morning Screenings Removed
The trouble started late Wednesday night. Producer S. R. Prabhu went on X (formerly Twitter) to announce that the special 9 AM shows were canceled due to unavoidable reasons. This was a shock because the Tamil Nadu government, led by Chief Minister Vijay, had just given special permission for those early morning shows.
It got worse as the day went on. The noon shows were canceled, and by the afternoon, theaters confirmed that the evening and night shows were also called off. Major cinema chains in Chennai, including Vettri Theatres and Kamala Cinemas, posted updates saying all shows for May 14 were canceled and that refunds had started.
Reports suggest the issue is linked to unpaid dues of over Rs 50 crore by Dream Warrior Pictures, the production house behind the film. Pending payments to financiers and distributors reportedly stopped the delivery of digital keys (KDMs) needed to screen the film. A mistaken screening in North India also raised fears of piracy, adding to the problems.
Dhanush and Dulquer Salmaan Show Support
As news of the delay spread, several celebrities came forward to support the film’s team. Dhanush wrote a clear message on X:
“Suriya sir and Karuppu deserve a proper theatrical release. I really hope the issues get resolved and the film releases in theatres soon.”
Dulquer Salmaan also showed his support for director RJ Balaji, who was seen crying in an emotional video online. Dulquer commented on the video:
“All will be good brother !! with you always !”
Director Vignesh Shivan and filmmaker Venkat Prabhu also sent messages of strength to the team, asking fans to stay patient and support the movie when it finally comes out.
Director RJ Balaji Breaks Down in Emotional Apology
The person feeling the pressure the most is director RJ Balaji. After waiting 32 months to finish the film, he shared a heartbreaking video on Instagram. Wiping away tears, he apologized to fans who had traveled long distances to watch the movie.
“I am really sorry to all the fans. It shouldn’t have happened,” he said. “We watch films to let go of our stress. But you all shouldn’t have experienced stress going to watch a movie. I am very sorry.”
He added that he still has faith the issues will be fixed, hoping for a release soon. “Suriya sir has given so much for the film. It is painful, but God will remove all hurdles,” Balaji said.
What ‘Karuppu’ Is About
Karuppu is a courtroom drama mixed with action and folk fantasy. Suriya plays a dual role, reportedly connected to the deity Karuppasamy. Trisha Krishnan plays a lawyer named Preethi, marking her return to the screen with Suriya after 21 years (since Aaru in 2005).
The story follows a grandfather and granddaughter fighting for justice in a system that keeps delaying their case. RJ Balaji plays the negative role of a tricky lawyer opposing them. The film also stars Yogi Babu, Indrans, and Anagha Maya Ravi. Music is by Sai Abhyankkar, with cinematography by GK Vishnu.
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Fans Protest as Makers Look for Solutions
The cancellation caused chaos outside theaters, especially in Puducherry, where fans protested against the delay. Many had booked tickets days in advance, only to find the shows canceled without clear reasons.
Theatres in the UK and Europe also reported disruptions, with some chains refusing to hold screens for uncertain Indian releases. As of May 14 evening, there is no official word on when Karuppu will release. Distributors are trying to sort out the financial issues, hoping to bring the film to screens starting May 15.
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