Lillete Dubey discusses the shift in cinema, emphasizing that the era of glamour and star power dominating the screen is in the past. In a conversation with Bangalore Times, she explores the changing landscape of acting, the emergence of OTT platforms, and their impact on audience preferences. Here are some highlights from the discussion:
- OTT platforms have empowered filmmakers to tackle complex and previously unexplored subjects. The storytelling has become more nuanced, with characters exhibiting shades of grey instead of simple good or bad traits. The variety of content available caters to a wide range of audiences, spanning from rural to urban settings and appealing to various age groups. OTT platforms have become a fertile ground for innovative storytelling and compelling performances.
- Acting in today's cinema goes beyond mere looks and star power. OTT platforms are showcasing exceptional talent that shines based on performance rather than physical appearance. The emergence of talented actors thriving in the OTT space signifies a positive shift towards recognizing and appreciating exceptional skills. While there is still room for glamorous, star-centric movies, diverse genres and entertainment options can coexist. The evolving audience, influenced by increased exposure through cable TV, international travel, and OTT platforms, now gravitates towards well-crafted narratives and nuanced acting. This trend has created a conducive environment where theatre actors can showcase their refined skills.
- Present-day audiences exhibit sophistication in their preferences, seeking out well-developed stories. Blockbuster movies driven by star power can perform exceptionally well, while others may struggle due to shifting audience tastes. This changing landscape reflects an audience that values intricately crafted narratives and nuanced performances.The explosion of international travel over the past 10-15 years was followed by the rise of OTT platforms, which has raised viewers' standards. Audiences now expect well-crafted stories and nuanced performances, not only from Hollywood but also from Indian cinema. This shift has compelled everyone to elevate their efforts. The dilemma facing theaters is that with a plethora of content available at home, audiences are reluctant to spend on tickets, concessions, and transportation for an average film. The exception is big-budget blockbusters that warrant a big-screen experience for their thrilling moments. Theatres find themselves in a challenging situation, as low attendance prompts studios to release films on OTT platforms sooner, while audiences are less inclined to venture out knowing that films eventually make their way to streaming services. The industry must adapt to the changing audience expectations by offering exceptional cinema experiences that justify the cost of seeing a movie in theaters.
