Director Hemanth M. Rao voices concerns about the decline in success of Kannada films post-2022 and the lack of blockbuster hits in the past two years. The Kannada film industry struggles with low audience turnout in theaters, marginalization in Bengaluru multiplexes, and reluctance from OTT platforms to showcase Kannada content. Rao emphasizes the need for a united front to address these challenges and calls for stronger leadership within the industry. In an interview with Bangalore Times, he discusses his commitment to Kannada cinema, his filmmaking philosophy, and the need for a collective effort to rejuvenate the industry. Rao critiques the common notion that big heroes should make more films as a solution to industry issues, arguing for a more nuanced approach that considers the diverse needs of all stakeholders. He urges for a unified voice to represent the industry and draws parallels with the proactive nature of Telugu and Tamil cinema in driving change and engaging younger audiences.We do not have our own OTT platform. It is important for the government and industry representatives to collaborate and take a stand on this issue. Hemanth points out the lack of sufficient support from producers, explaining that filmmaking is seen as a risky venture for them, as it is not their main source of income. This results in a lack of interest in regulating the industry.
Regarding the inadequate compensation from TV channels for Kannada films, Hemanth notes that even for a film made on a modest budget of Rs 1.5 crore, TV channels are offering as little as Rs 10-20 lakh. There is a lack of unified leadership, leading to various challenges such as piracy issues, with films being illegally available online shortly after release.
Hemanth also discusses the misconception surrounding the definition of a commercial hit in cinema. He argues that the distinction between commercial and art films is becoming less clear, emphasizing that any film that sells tickets and earns profits should be considered commercial. He stresses the importance of making financially successful films within a realistic framework, rather than aiming for extravagant box office numbers. Hemanth advocates for creating quality cinema to attract a wider audience, rather than embarking on unrealistic revolutions in the industry."We began creating films that resonate with us, shaping our filmmaking journey. Last year, Aachar and Co contributed to this narrative,” he reflects. Describing filmmaking as a daring leap into the unknown, Hemanth compares it to diving into a pool and navigating through a boundless abyss. To authentically portray different worlds on screen, he immerses himself in understanding the characters by meeting and drawing inspiration from real people. This process fuels his passion for storytelling, allowing him to craft compelling narratives that resonate with audiences. Hemanth also emphasizes the significance of using colors in his films, acknowledging their cultural and subconscious impact on viewers. For him, colors are a storytelling tool that enhances the viewing experience without overshadowing the narrative, ensuring audiences remain engaged throughout the film."
