Mumbai, March 12: The debate in the film industry about the limited space for small-budget films in theaters continues. National Award-winning filmmaker Prakash Jha recently shared his insights in an interview. He believes that there is room for all types of films, but the real challenge lies in how well a film connects with its audience.
During the conversation, Jha stated, “There are still opportunities for small films in theaters. Many low-budget films are released and reach audiences. For instance, multiplexes in Jamshedpur often showcase multiple films simultaneously. At times, around 12 films are screened at once. Some films might have one show, while others have two or even four shows. The number of screens and showtimes is allocated based on demand and audience interest.”
He acknowledged the financial challenges faced by small-budget films. When a film is released in theaters, various costs come into play, including theater rentals, marketing expenses, technical facilities, and distribution costs. These factors can significantly increase the overall budget, making it tough for low-budget films to turn a profit. Consequently, many producers opt for OTT platforms instead of taking risks with theatrical releases.
Jha remarked, “If I feel that the costs and risks of a theater release are too high, I would prefer OTT. However, that doesn’t mean there is no space for small-budget films in theaters. Today, there are more opportunities; we just need to reach the audience effectively.”
He also shared his perspective on filmmaking. Jha emphasized the importance of understanding the type of film being made and its target audience. Additionally, it is crucial for the film to connect with viewers emotionally. “No matter how good a film is, if it fails to touch the audience’s heart, its success becomes difficult,” he noted.
He further added, “The primary goal of a film should be to establish an emotional connection with the audience. If a film can engage viewers, it succeeds. However, if it cannot connect, then regardless of how strong the story or message is, it will not leave an impact.”
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