Independent films fight for screen space despite critical acclaim

Critically acclaimed Indian filmsthat sparkle onthe international festival circuit are finding it hard to be screened in the country even though theatresare struggling with low supply of new commercial films.

- Lata Jha [e-mail]

Last week, 46 independent filmmakers came together to call for fair and equal opportunities for their films, typically made on shoestring budgets without mainstream stars, to be shown in cinemasacross India.

This came on the heels of the limited and inconvenient showtimes given to the film Agra, which director Kanu Behl had publicised on social media.

Experts said these films usually depend on word-of-mouth and critical reviews. While such films used to lure some audiences before covid, the segment has largely moved to OTT (over-the-top) now. Meanwhile, some makers try todrum up support online for their films among cinephiles, hopingit would result in more shows in theatres, though it remains to bescen ifthis could emerge asa viable mechanism for small film distribution.