Filmmaker Declares Era of Alternative Cinema Over
Director Abhishek Chaubey has made a startling declaration about the current state of Indian cinema. He believes his critically acclaimed 2019 film Sonchiriya could never be made in today's filmmaking environment. The movie, starring the late Sushant Singh Rajput and Manoj Bajpayee, explored themes of redemption and morality through a western lens.
"Nobody Would Give Even Ten Rupees"
Chaubey was blunt in his assessment during a recent interview. "Today, you would not get money for it at all," he stated. "Even before the censors and all that, nobody would give you even Rs 10 to make it. It just wouldn't happen."
The filmmaker explained that streaming platforms offer no solution either. When asked if OTT services might support such projects now, his response was definitive. "No, streaming would be worse. It would not be funded at all. No way."
Multiple Barriers to Production
Co-writer Sudip Sharma, creator of shows like Paatal Lok and Kohrra, echoed these concerns. He pointed to additional obstacles beyond funding. "And even if it somehow got funded and made, it wouldn't clear the censor boards. And nobody would come to see it in theatres."
Chaubey emphasized the casting challenges too. "We won't find any actor only," he remarked, suggesting today's stars are less willing to take creative risks.
A Bygone Era for Filmmakers
The director described Sonchiriya as the final film of a particular creative period. "There was a time when actors could take risks," he recalled. "There was an appetite for alternatives among the audience. For about 15 or 20 years, there was space for alternative cinema, and many alternative filmmakers found success during that period."
He concluded with a sobering assessment. "That era is well and truly over. Today, at every critical stage of filmmaking, Sonchiriya would collapse."
Remembering Sushant Singh Rajput's Contribution
Chaubey also reflected on casting Sushant Singh Rajput in the lead role. He explained why Rajput was better suited than typical Bollywood stars. "The reason was very simple. We discussed his name among us and came to an agreement that there was something desi about Sushant," Chaubey shared.
He contrasted Rajput with other actors. "You know, with the other stars, these Bandra boys, I mean, not that they can't do it, but it's a longer journey to get from who they are to that world. For Sushant, it would be easier. He comes from a small town and has some idea of the kind of world we're talking about."
The director's comments highlight significant shifts in India's cinematic landscape. They suggest changing audience preferences, increased censorship concerns, and reduced willingness among actors to experiment with unconventional roles.
