Celebrated actor Manisha Koirala and filmmaker Vikramaditya Motwane recently shared their insights on the evolving landscape between theatrical releases and streaming platforms at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. The discussion shed light on the shift in storytelling and opportunities for veteran actresses in the digital age.
Manisha Koirala, known for her iconic roles in films like “Bombay” and “1942: A Love Story,” emphasized that the preparation and sincerity required for both the big screen and web series are the same. She recently starred in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Netflix series “Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar,” showcasing her versatility across different platforms.
Vikramaditya Motwane, the filmmaker behind acclaimed projects like “Udaan” and “Sacred Games,” highlighted the creative freedom offered by streaming platforms. He mentioned how the flexibility in format allows for diverse storytelling, whether it’s a two-hour movie or a multi-season series with hour-long episodes.
The duo agreed that streaming has opened up new avenues for veteran actresses, providing them with meaty roles and challenging characters. Koirala expressed gratitude towards OTT platforms for offering more opportunities to older actresses, reflecting the expanded mindset of the audience towards diverse narratives.
Motwane shared his experience of transitioning from feature films to streaming series, citing how his work on “Sacred Games” and “Jubilee” enhanced his efficiency in filmmaking. He emphasized the importance of understanding the nuances of the series format, including the use of cliffhangers to keep viewers engaged.
The discussion also touched upon the evolving landscape of content consumption in India, with Motwane highlighting the impact of private viewing on mobile devices. As the country’s first choice for internet access is often through smartphones, the trend towards private viewing has influenced content consumption patterns significantly.
Overall, the session curated by festival director Shekhar Kapur provided valuable insights into the changing dynamics of the film industry in the digital era. With streaming platforms offering a platform for diverse storytelling and roles for veteran actresses, the future looks promising for both filmmakers and actors adapting to the evolving landscape of entertainment.
