jay joshi
Commercial as well as independent cinema, both have a message to give to the society, and while commercial cinema is apparently more successful, there needs to be an outlet for independent cinema to reach more audience, concluded the in-conversation session held at Maquinez Palace in Panaji as part of the ongoing IFFI on Friday. The discussion panel comprised of filmmakers Subhash Ghai, Shaji N Karun, and British film critic Derek Malcolm. The session was moderated by film critic and business analyst Taran Adarsh.
Beginning the discussion Shaji stated that India is a melting pot of diverse cultures, but cinema brings the nation together. “Cinema is more than just social interpretation. It’s soft diplomacy, Today, Indian themes are recognised everywhere in the world,” he stated.
Elaborating on the evolution of Indian cinema,veteran filmmaker Subhash Ghai stated that it is important to understand the importance of the history of Indian cinema. “ Today we need to discuss how relevant it is to know about the history of indian cinema. Cinema represents the culture of the land. Cinema is a communication device. This is how lands showcase their culture, language, and issues,” Ghai said. “ Cinema speaks about our current problems. Storytelling remains the same despite different genres of cinema. There is a relationship between filmmakers and audience of that time.: he added.
British film critic Derek Malcolm noted the gap between independent films and commercial cinema in India, and expressed concern over the predicament of independent filmmakers today. “ I see Bollywood on one side and independent films on other. They are drawing each other. In the past, Doordarshan used to buy independent films to show, and independent filmmakers did not need to turn to theatres. But later, DD stopped buying films and this has made it difficult for independent filmmakers to secure a release for their films,” averred Malcolm. Lots of independent filmmakers have given up making films due to finance issues,” he added, stating that independent films need more outlets.
