Mirroring The Industry: Here’s a look at the 10 on-going mistakes in the Hindi Film Fraternity

by

As a dedicated follower of Bollywood, I’m compelled to express my concerns about the current state of the Hindi Film Industry. The slowdown in production is palpable, primarily due to the disintegration of the ecosystem in the satellite and digital world. It seems like a domino effect, with problems escalating across various aspects of filmmaking – from media coverage to creative personnel, directors, producers, actors, and talent agencies alike. Here are ten mistakes that I believe have contributed to this downfall:

1. Lack of originality and creativity
2. Obsession with remakes and sequels
3. Over-reliance on star power
4. Neglecting regional cinema for mainstream success
5. Ignoring the need for quality content over quantity
6. Excessive product placements and item numbers
7. The lack of representation and diversity on screen
8. Predictable storylines and formulaic narratives
9. Overlooking the importance of post-production
10. Failing to adapt to changing audience preferences and trends

1. Following the herd mentality in content creation

how many quality romantic comedies, family dramas, and everyday life films have we produced lately with well-known stars? We’re hesitant to take risks and we need to offer something new for audiences to enjoy on the big screen. Unfortunately, we haven’t made enough rom-coms and family dramas yet to determine what works and what doesn’t.

2. Low focus on music

In the past, the purity in music seemed more prevalent, as we frequently produced multiple hits from a single album. However, today it seems that the proportion of successful original songs is at an all-time low. Some may argue that listening habits have evolved, but it’s clear that we are no longer producing quality music as we once did.

In earlier days, filmmakers would spend months crafting music for their films, and nowadays, movies start production without a finalized score or even a composer involved. It’s crucial to invest time in composing and creating music suitable for the movie, rather than viewing it as an afterthought. Instead, let’s make music an integral part of the screenplay.

3. Too much focus on perception building

In the modern era, vast sums of money are spent by filmmakers and actors to cultivate their image. It’s not uncommon for multiple meetings to take place just to get a script approved, but when it comes to generating buzz for a movie using paid promotional methods, that number can easily double – up to 20 meetings! While publicity is crucial, it’s important to draw the line between necessary and excessive promotion. This question of balance is one every producer and actor must grapple with. The illusion created often gives stakeholders a distorted view of reality, as they rarely see the true picture. To rectify mistakes, one must first be aware of them. Let’s acknowledge that we have been creating subpar films – let’s confront this truth and strive to produce quality, diverse, and relatable content instead. The audience will always appreciate something fresh and exciting.

4. Filmmaking on Excel Sheet

In today’s cinematic landscape, it seems like everything revolves around spreadsheets rather than the creative process. If there’s no element of danger or uncertainty for the producers, they won’t feel the need to take responsibility. Risk, however, gives them the motivation to strive for perfection – from script development, to selecting the right music, and ensuring top-notch production values. A focus on spreadsheets and risk-averse filmmaking often leads to complacency since there’s little at stake. When stakes are minimal, the end result won’t be satisfying. I understand that producing mega-budget films can be off-putting, but calculated risks will ultimately yield rewards in a world where business is risk-free. As an avid film enthusiast, I crave for the adrenaline rush that comes with taking those calculated risks on screen.

5. Actor Fees, Insecurities & Interference

In today’s world, every actor believes they are a star in their own right, comparing themselves to legendary duo Salim-Javed of Hindi Cinema. Often, actors believe they can contribute to script development and other filmmaking aspects. Unfortunately, these inputs frequently compromise the script. Moreover, excessive actor fees have an impact on production quality. If everyone focused on their respective roles, filmmaking would be more streamlined. Actors should stick to acting, producers should focus on production and marketing, directors should concentrate on directing, and writers should continue writing. However, in today’s industry, everyone seems to meddle in everything, leading to a disorganized mess. Additionally, actors are hesitant to take on ensemble films due to the “Fear of Overshadowing.” This fear extends to even top stars who worry that supporting actors might steal their limelight. It’s time for everyone to build confidence and remember that excessive entourage costs continue to be a concern in today’s industry.

6. Director distractions & aim to be producers

In the realm of show business, many directors are often preoccupied with various distractions, which can lead to subpar results. The responsibility of delivering quality work seems to have lost its grip. Some directors engage in organizing sports leagues, others participate in reality shows, some strive to become producers for financial gain, some aim to project themselves as star-directors, and some juggle numerous projects simultaneously. If we examine history, only a handful of successful directors have transitioned into successful producers. It’s crucial for each director to concentrate on one film and ensure its delivery, as multitasking could lead to a swift downfall. Every director should take responsibility for their work, as focusing on multiple tasks might lead to a quick collapse.

7.Corporate & Self Booking

A significant issue causing distress within the entertainment industry is the emergence of self-purchasing and corporate bookings by producers and actors to guarantee their films reach a specific viewership. This tactic is employed as a safeguard against potential failures, but it’s actually exacerbating problems for the industry. By offering free tickets, they are fostering an addiction to free movie consumption among audiences. Why would people pay for something when they can get it for free eventually? To foster a habit of watching films on the big screen, regular releases are essential.

Corporate bookings and self-buying are employed to create a favorable impression within the industry, but insiders know the truth, while audiences generally don’t care about viewership numbers. Essentially, this practice amounts to wasting money in an attempt to manipulate perceptions.

8. Media narratives & pressure tactics

Once more, the industry has developed an unwanted habit: crafting media stories through paid channels, and when this doesn’t occur, even more money is invested to establish a storyline. The need for corporate bookings and self-purchases might also stem from media pressure, as the “Low Advance” narrative can quickly become popular, damaging a film’s reputation before it’s released. It’s perhaps high time for us to reflect, keeping advance data confidential for most films until there is significant momentum. Premature reporting of film advances for movies that don’t require them should be avoided until the final figures are disclosed, as early reporting puts unnecessary pressure on the film. Paid campaigns must strive to be honest rather than a means to create a false impression, since today, anything and everything is posted with the aim of gaining false validation.

9. Stars becoming influencers

In this modern era, it’s effortless for me, as a dedicated follower, to get a glimpse into an actor’s life at any moment thanks to the convenience of a simple button click. However, I can’t help but miss the allure of mystery that once surrounded them when they graced the big screen. A certain veil of secrecy and intrigue was essential for their stardom back then. If today’s stars are so readily accessible online, shouldn’t we classify them as social media celebrities rather than film stars? After all, it seems that many wouldn’t pay to see them on the silver screen anymore.

10. Intent of honesty

It’s crucial that an audience admires sincerity. Film creators should strive to produce an authentic movie, rather than one that becomes a box office success. They should invest in stories they trust, not just ones that might work commercially. Actors should collaborate with the aim of creating something extraordinary together, instead of regarding it as a chance to showcase their power positions. The right castings are essential for movies, and films that offer entertainment across various genres, while keeping commercial sensibilities in mind, must be made. Ultimately, audiences come for enjoyment, so filmmakers should focus on creating entertaining content rather than lecturing or pushing personal opinions onto movie-goers.

Let’s strive to identify our shortcomings, work on improving them, and rise victorious once more, glowing with success as we reach the pinnacle.

The author, unfortunately, doesn’t have enough information about the specific problems occurring within the Southern industry’s circle, so they cannot offer any insights or comments on those internal matters.

Read More

2025-02-10 16:53