The Authenticity Crisis in Cinema: Ananth Mahadevan Talks Biopics and Remix Films

Ananth Mahadevan, a seasoned filmmaker, recently spoke out about the state of contemporary cinema, particularly focusing on the rise of remix films and biographical films (biopics). According to Mahadevan, the current approach to filmmaking reflects a shift towards convenience rather than creativity.

 

"At home, we never work independently. We want people to come in and do our work for us... This has become the psychology of filmmakers. They want ready-made content. Filmmakers today don't want to use their minds... If they do use their minds, it causes pain, and they don’t want to go through that process. If they’re not capable of that, they end up making remixes," Mahadevan said, expressing his concern about how filmmakers have grown complacent.

 

Mahadevan also addressed the rising trend of biographical films in the industry, calling them a "gimmick." "They say, 'I’ll make a film about a sportsperson, a cricketer, a boxer, or a historical figure.' This is a whole con game that’s going on. Bollywood has adopted this formula of taking a famous person, adding masala, and labeling it a 'biopic' to serve it to the audience. It’s like calling a Chinese dosa a dosa when it’s not authentic. This is adulterated cinema—exaggerated and not an honest biopic."

 

For Mahadevan, an honest biopic is akin to 'writing on stone.' "If I make a film about you, I have to be honest with you," he explained, emphasizing the need for authenticity when depicting real-life figures.

Facebook Comments