A majority of independent film makers, whose films figured in the competition section of 10th edition of BIFFes, acknowledged that digital distribution had helped break the monopoly of production studios and gatekeepers, such as distributors and exhibitors who control the release of a film.
Interacting with mediapersons, they observed that digitalisation of films has helped in exploring issues that are neglected by mainstream cinema in the name of commercial values.
Shah Nawaz of Candyflip said digital spaces like Youtube, Netflix and Amazon Prime have ignited hope of film-makers that they could showcase their work without having to depend on screens, which are partial to a huge star cast and big productions.
Sridhar Ramagayan, whose Evening shadows looks at queer life in a conservative middle class family, said, “Theatres are controlled by a distribution system, which demands movies that either have stars or saleability. Technology has removed such strictures, allowing us to tell our stories.”
Noted film maker Utpal Borpujari said it is a tragedy that mainstream cinema, and even media, had to cater to the urban masses alone.
Noting that independent film makers, who are choosing topics like communal tension, are facing several risks, Deepesh T. of Swanam, a Malayalam film, said, “Writers and journalists who spoke about such issues fearlessly are being eliminated for expressing their opinion. Independent film makers are not saved from such threats.”
