Anubhav Sinha Urges Film Industry to Rethink Theater Ecosystem
Filmmaker Anubhav Sinha, known for impactful films like ‘Mulk’, ‘Thappad’, and ‘Bheed’, has sounded an alarm for the Indian film industry. He emphasizes the urgent need to rebuild the theatrical ecosystem as the economy of the industry straddles a precarious edge.
The Theater Versus OTT Conundrum
In a candid video message, Sinha expressed concerns over the evolving dynamics between traditional theaters and OTT platforms. The shift, according to him, is less about competition and more about adaptation. “The debate isn’t about theaters versus OTT. It’s about finding harmony as we’ve always done—be it with Doordarshan, Satellite TV, or Multiplexes,” he narrated.
Overt Dependency on OTT Economics
Sinha lamented the industry’s heavy reliance on OTT platforms for financial stability. The sudden pivot in OTT economics, with platforms curbing film acquisitions and budgets, has caused a ripple effect. “Business ventures, including filmmaking, must be adaptable without solely depending on one model,” Sinha pointed out.
The Piracy Predicament
An area overshadowed by other debates is the rampant piracy problem, Sinha asserted. Film releases on platforms like Telegram even before their official run is over, pose a massive hurdle. “The industry has turned a blind eye to this menace. The conversation must shift towards combating this challenge,” he added.
Revival of Single Screens: A Nostalgic Need
For Sinha, the solution could lie in reviving single-screen theaters, which once thrived across India. The disappearance of these theaters has left cinema inaccessible to many, especially the middle class. “Middle-class families are constrained by the high costs of multiplexes. Single screens could democratize film viewing again,” he mourned.
Crafting Resilient Models for Filmmaking
Sinha urges an overhaul in filmmaking strategies to ensure resilience amid changing viewership trends. Pointing to the South Indian industry, where single screens are still prevalent, he remarked, “They take risks on new releases. Hindi cinema must embrace such resilience and redevelop theaters that people can afford.”
Again, It’s Not About Democracy
Concluding his poignant message, Sinha voiced skepticism towards capitalism’s societal facade. “It’s not about democracy but survival. The industry needs robust business models that ensure sustainability irrespective of platform dynamics.” According to The Times of India, preserving the art of cinema involves reimagining its accessibility while fostering a sustainable business environment.
