In an interview with Bangalore Times, actress and director Lillete Dubey discusses how the landscape of cinema is changing, emphasizing that the era of glamour and star power dominating the screen is now a thing of the past. She explores the evolving realm of acting, the impact of OTT platforms, and their influence on audience preferences. Here are some highlights from the conversation:

"OTT platforms empower filmmakers to delve into intricate and previously unexplored themes. The narratives are more nuanced, portraying characters with shades of grey rather than simple black-and-white distinctions. The range of content available is extensive, spanning from rural to urban settings and catering to audiences of all ages. OTT platforms have become a fertile ground for a new wave of compelling storytelling and impactful performances."

"Contemporary cinema transcends mere glamour and celebrity status. OTT platforms showcase exceptional talent whose performances shine without relying solely on physical appearance. Many gifted actors are thriving in the OTT space, underscoring the recognition of exceptional talent. While there will always be room for glamorous, star-driven productions, there is also space for a variety of genres and creative offerings to coexist. The success of certain big-budget films and the struggles of others reflect a changing audience demographic. Increased exposure through cable TV, international travel, and now OTT platforms has refined audience preferences. Audiences now seek well-crafted narratives and nuanced performances, creating an environment where theatre actors can truly showcase their honed skills."

"Today, we see a mix of big-budget, star-driven blockbusters achieving remarkable success while others falter. This disparity can be attributed to the evolving tastes of audiences. The proliferation of Cable TV was just the beginning."Following the explosion of international travel over the past 10-15 years, OTT platforms have set higher standards for viewer expectations. Audiences now seek well-crafted narratives and nuanced performances, not only from Hollywood but also in Indian cinema. This shift has pushed all players in the industry to elevate their work. Theatres find themselves in a dilemma as audiences have easy access to a plethora of content from the comfort of their own homes. Unless it is a major blockbuster with thrilling sequences, the appeal of spending money on tickets, popcorn, and travel for an average film diminishes. This situation forces cinemas to grapple with empty seats, prompting studios to release films on OTT platforms sooner. Audiences, aware of this trend, are less motivated to attend theatrical screenings. The industry must adapt to this changing audience dynamic by providing exceptional experiences that justify the expense of a trip to the cinema.