Manisha Koirala and Vikramaditya Motwane Discuss Streaming and Theatrical Dynamics at IFFI

At the IFFI in Goa, Manisha Koirala and Vikramaditya Motwane navigated the changing relationship between streaming and traditional film, revealing how streaming offers creative freedom and increased roles for veteran actresses. They discussed lessons from series creation, audience expectations, and the unique consumption patterns of Indian viewers.

At the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa, acclaimed actor Manisha Koirala and visionary filmmaker Vikramaditya Motwane explored the dynamic interplay between streaming platforms and traditional cinema. Koirala, known for her roles in classics like “Bombay” and “Khamoshi,” emphasized that her dedication remains unwavering, whether performing for the screen or a web series. “For me as an actor, be it for the big screen or web series, it’s the same amount of work that is needed,” she stated, reflecting on her recent performance in the Netflix hit “Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar.”

Motwane echoed these sentiments, sharing insights from his experience with series like “Sacred Games”. He pointed out that streaming provides unmatched creative freedom. “The wonderful part of streaming is that you’re not stuck to saying with theatrical that okay, you have to make a movie two to two and a half hours,” he explained. With streaming, narratives can unfold across various formats, whether as feature films or lengthy series that allow story arcs to develop with depth.

The duo also highlighted the surge of opportunities afforded by streaming services. Koirala remarked on how older actresses are now embracing roles that were once scarce, thanks to the changing audience perceptions. “Thanks to the OTT platforms, even in cinema, the older actresses are doing meaty roles,” she noted, celebrating the enriched storytelling landscape fostered by this new medium.

Moreover, Motwane shared lessons learned from crafting serial narratives, including the critical importance of cliffhangers to captivate audiences. “We took the book and broke down the book… understanding how this format works, what a cliffhanger is,” he elaborated. His journey from delicate storytelling to efficient filmmaking allowed him to shoot episodes at an incredible pace—ten episodes completed in just ninety days.

Despite the rapid evolution in content consumption, Motwane pointed out that India is still adapting to the intricacies of the international showrunner model. He articulated the need for this framework to mature within the industry to enable a fresh wave of directors to emerge. With mobile devices as the primary window to content, viewers are drawn into more intimate, personalized experiences. As Motwane put it, “India is a country that adopted internet first through its phones, not through broadband. Most people’s first device of choice is their phone, which makes it private viewing.”

The conversation between Manisha Koirala and Vikramaditya Motwane at IFFI highlights a significant shift in the film industry marked by the rise of streaming platforms. Traditionally dominated by theatrical releases, the landscape now embraces a diverse storytelling approach facilitated by digital media. This transformation not only enhances the creative process but also expands opportunities for actors, especially women in leading roles, paving the way for more complex narratives. Their discussions delve into the implications of this convergence on content production and consumption, reflecting a broader cultural shift in Indian cinema.

The insightful dialogue between Manisha Koirala and Vikramaditya Motwane underscores a pivotal moment in the entertainment industry, where streaming platforms are reshaping storytelling and performance dynamics. As they navigate the evolving landscape, both the actors and audiences find themselves in an exciting era ripe with opportunities for richer narratives and diverse roles. The challenges of adapting to new formats signal a maturation of the industry that promises to redefine engagement with film and series alike.

Original Source: variety.com