Why do producers announce the release of their films without a CBFC certificate in their hands? I am asking this question with reference to not just this week’s scheduled release, Aakhri Sawal, which had to ultimately be postponed, but other films also.
– Producers are an adventurous lot. They announce the release of their films if they feel that the CBFC will grant the film certification without hassles. But if there is a problem at the eleventh hour, they are forced to postpone their film’s release. Frankly, true producers are adventurous by nature. If they weren’t so, they would never have the guts to make films.
Saleable stars are in short supply. Films with other actors don’t open well. It is also a fact that today, the game is of initial. In such a scenario, what should film producers and directors do? How do they make films?
– The only option for them is to work hard, very hard on their scripts. Films with well-written scripts but starring actors who may not be saleable, tend to pick up after a slow start. So although we say that the game today is of initial, it is also a fact that good content works even if the start is slow.
What are microdramas? One has been hearing about them here, there and everywhere. Can you please explain?
– Microdramas are serialised, vertical short-form video series made for viewing on your cell phone. An episode could last for one, two, three or more minutes. Microdramas originated in China where they are known as duanju. They are addictive, fast-paced dramas and are supposed to have high-stakes storylines — often romance, revenge, or fantasy — with frequent cliffhangers designed to maximise engagement and monetisation through apps. It is viewed as a growing business with huge potential. Yash Raj Films is entering the microdrama space with a budget outlay of Rs. 150 crore.