Filmmaker Kiran Rao speaks exclusively to us as she talks about the phase Indian films are going through and how it is, in fact, a very great time to make films in India. As the industry keeps going through a change and with newer narratives coming along with newer storytelling, Rao’s insights light up the new possibilities that lie ahead.
The Changing Face of Indian Cinema
Kiran Rao, who began with “Dhobi Ghat” and is working on “Kalki 898 AD,” spoke enthusiastically about the trends cropping up in Indian film. She said the trend of telling different stories and the audience’s acceptance of unconventional narratives have paved the way for filmmakers to attempt newer themes and genres.
Rao said that, for one, people have now developed a much bigger appetite for the different kinds of content. “More and more people are willing to accept stories, from realistic ones to those with a lot of fantasy elements,” she said. It is this that has taken center stage in the very progress of filmmakers bent on innovating and experimenting with their art.
The Infusion of Technology into Filmmaking
Some of the reasons which contribute to the boom in the film industry in India include rapid advancement in technology. According to Kiran Rao, “it is a new technology embrace for filmmakers, adding to the manner in which stories are being told.” Filmmakers can now afford high-quality cameras and advanced editing software-technologies that were once available only to big-budget films.
“Technology has democratized filmmaking,” Rao said. “It allows independent filmmakers to make high-quality content without requiring massive budgets.” The ease of access has finally led to an influx of independent films that really appeal to audiences and further enrich the cinematic landscape.
Role of Streaming Platforms
The rise of the streaming platforms has also played a strong role in shaping the future of Indian cinema. Kiran Rao acknowledged that these streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, among others, give filmmakers access to global audiences that are unparalleled. Such exposure is invaluable as it allows unique stories to reach viewers who may not have accessed them.
“Streaming services have changed the game,” she said. “They offer space for a variety of voices and stories that perhaps the mainstream cinema would not have accommodated.” It thus has given filmmakers the courage to experiment and look at themes that find relevance in today’s times.
Co-Productions and Collaborations
Going ahead, Kiran Rao spoke about the growing trend in collaborations and co-productions between Indian filmmakers and international partners. She says this can be a surefire way to get more depth in stories and create a wider exchange of ideas. Filmmakers can make content together that caters to both national and international interests.
“Collaborations can bring newer insights and resources together,” Rao said. “It’s an exciting time to collaborate for filmmakers with talent across the world.” This internationalism not only raises the quality of films but also facilitates cross-cultural exchange.
Future Projects and Aspirations
As Kiran Rao proceeds with her career in Indian cinema, she is concerned with her new projects. Her latest film is “Kalki 898 AD,” which reflects her commitment to narrating stories with novelty. This science fiction and mythology-based film depicts her urge for out-of-the-box narrative telling.
She added happily that in her future projects, too, she wants to work in different genres with different themes. “I want to tell stories that shake structures of society and make people think,” Rao said. The passion of storytelling is visible in her, though she has aimed to inspire a new generation of filmmakers to do the same.
Conclusion:
Kiran Rao’s perception of the current phase in Indian cinema points toward great opportunities one is going to have as a filmmaker in the future. Diverse storytelling, embracing technology, and with the coming of streamers into prominence, this really is a fine period to make films in India. The industry, still evolving, promises more from the commitment of Rao to innovative narratives and collaboration to add to the already rich tapestry of Indian cinema.
With filmmakers like Kiran Rao continuing to bridge this gap for newer voices and stories, the future is indeed going to be creative and inspiring. The face of Indian cinema is gradually changing, and along with this change come newer ways of looking at life and mesmerizing stories that reflect the complexities of today’s society.