What did local cinema owners say about the state of theaters in India?

Local cinema owners in various cities reported that theaters are not dying and that smaller centers are receptive to diverse film content.

How did the filmmaker's road trip challenge industry data?

The filmmaker's journey across 33 cities provided on-the-ground insights that contradicted industry data regarding audience preferences and theater viability in non-metro areas.

What was the scope of the filmmaker's 'Chal Picture Chalein' project?

The project involved traveling to 33 cities, meeting local communities, and exploring aspects of culture, society, and cinema beyond industry narratives.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Cinema's "Intelligent" Future: Road Trip Reveals Truth

Cinema's "Intelligent" Future: Road Trip Reveals Truth

4 Feb

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Summary

Director's journey across 33 cities challenged cinema data.
Local theatre owners deny "dying cinemas" and "intelligent film" myths.
The trip uncovered insights on culture, society, and street food.

Cinema's "Intelligent" Future: Road Trip Reveals Truth

A filmmaker's recent 33-city road trip across India has debunked prevailing industry beliefs about cinema's decline and audience preferences. Contrary to data suggesting "intelligent cinema" fails in smaller towns, local theatre owners uniformly reported thriving businesses. They also refuted claims that cinema halls are dying, a narrative that has persisted despite record-breaking box office successes in recent years, such as the major films released in 2022 and 2023.

The journey, which included a planned itinerary of 40 cities, began in the filmmaker's hometown of Benaras. This expedition, covering thousands of kilometers, unexpectedly broadened its scope beyond film to encompass a deep dive into people, society, changing culture, history, and local cuisine. Interactions with digital creators, film clubs, and young people in various cities provided invaluable on-the-ground insights.