According to insiders, Madhu Mantena is dissatisfied with the title and is adamant on changing it. He has had several arguments with the director and wants to change the title because he feels that the Indian audience will not be able to understand and connect to 1-800-LOVE.
They have had their fair share of heated arguments in the past over locations too. Recently, at the film's wrap-up party, Madhu walked out after another one of their tiffs over the title.
When enquired Madhu on the whole issue, the producer shared his grievances, "We rarely use toll free numbers in India. It is very important that the audience also connects to the film's name for commercial success."
But isn't it too late
to realise this as the title 1-800-LOVE is already registered in people's minds, we ask him. "We have ample amount of time
to change and promote it, even though 1-800-LOVE has gained popularity. I love this film and Abbas too much to let this
mistake happen."However, Abbas had a different version to offer regarding the film's current title as, "For the longest time, I wanted 1-800- LOVE as my title. But Madhu wants a different one now.
As Madhu says, it does happen that people refer to it as ‘One thousand eight hundred love', which is not what the film is about. But I thought people will understand it. Madhu and I had a conflict and I understand his point, but need something more convincing."
But despite their professional differences, both the director and producer claim to be comfortable with each other.
Madhu adds, "Abbas and I are very close friends and feel passionately about the film. We make it a point to show off our aggression. I am sure we'll settle with a final title soon. And yes, on the other hand, John likes another title."
