Anurag Kashyap reflects on realism and regional roots

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In a recent candid interview, renowned filmmaker Anurag Kashyap bared his soul on the challenges he faces in the Indian film industry and expressed a unique perspective on his cinematic journey. Kashyap, known for the use of realism, confessed that he believes his works might have garnered more success if he hailed from the southern states of Tamil Nadu or Kerala.

Speaking openly about his creative approach, Kashyap acknowledged that his inclination towards realism might be a hindrance in reaching a broader audience. He reflected, “I stay around realism. For that (films with suspension of disbelief that he saw in films of Amitabh Bachchan in the 70s and 80s), you need to go beyond realism. You have to create a sense of world and feeling, which I don’t know.”

The filmmaker contemplated how his films could have been more box office-friendly if he were born in a region with a different cinematic appetite. “If I was born in Tamil Nadu or Kerala, my film would be more box office friendly because they have that kind of an audience. Or I was born somewhere outside India. But I have to make my films in Hindi only. I was born in Uttar Pradesh. So we can’t do much,” Kashyap admitted.

Delving into the industry trends, Kashyap emphasized the cyclical nature of film preferences. He drew parallels between the current craze for action films and the previous dominance of superhero flicks, noting that excess can lead to a decline in popularity. However, he astutely pointed out that those who strategically time their releases during these trends stand to benefit the most.

The director’s insights into the evolving landscape of Indian cinema and his own introspective musings add a layer of depth to the conversation around filmmaking. Kashyap’s willingness to address the challenges he faces, coupled with his candid observations, provides a fresh perspective on the dynamics of success and audience reception in the ever-evolving world of cinema.