Explained: Why anthologies are increasingly becoming OTT platform staples, film industry members examine

Streaming platforms are staying true to the mantra of "something for everyone" by churning out one anthology after another, a format that offers the viewer an option to watch the movie as a short segment or a full-fledged feature, and it is here to stay, say industry insiders.

From getting different directors on board to present their distinct views on a theme or giving the audience an option to have a fling with content as opposed to the long-term commitment of a three-hour-long film amid information explosion and decreasing attention span, anthologies are becoming the go-to type of filmmaking in the digital era.

Here is what the film industry says are the reasons behind anthologies becoming the flavour of the season.

Ajeeb Daastaans director Kayoze Irani

• He says the format doesn't run the risk of viewer fatigue because "the stories will be different every time. Anthologies give you new faces, performances, good content, and in my experience, a new director. I'd rather pick up an anthology over a new series which I will have to binge-watch. It requires less commitment," he said.

Unpaused actor Richa Chadha

Ray director Vasan Bala, actors Harshvarrdhan Kapoor, Radhika Madan and Akansha Ranjan Kapoor

Harshvarrdhan Kapoor

Vasan Bala

• Spotlight director Vasan Bala believes filmmaking is going back in time. "Over 100 years ago, it all started with short films. Every generation feels we are doing something new, but ultimately we are all reinventing, picking up time slices. It is an exciting space and it has already been there," the filmmaker told PTI.

Radhika Madan and Akansha Ranjan Kapoor

• Interesting and varied concepts being translated on screen for a shorter film or series is a welcome trend, noted Akansha.

How streamers are developing content in regional languages

What is Netflix saying?

• Everything has to do with the innovation and experimentation in storytelling that streamers have brought in, said a Netflix spokesperson. "Creators have the ability to tell the story of their choice, the way they want, knowing that every story can find its audience, without limitations on format or duration... We understand that not everything will appeal to everyone, which is why we invest in a variety of stories so that you always have something you’ll love on Netflix," the Netflix spokesperson said.

(With inputs from Press Trust of India)