Filmmakers Slam OTTs for Star Over Big Stories

Filmmakers Garima Wahal and Siddharth Singh argue that the mid-budget film sector in Bollywood is effectively dead. They point to the current industry trend where Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms heavily favor established stars, often disregarding the intrinsic merit or uniqueness of a story. This focus on star power, they believe, sidelines potentially impactful narratives that don't feature A-list actors.

The duo, known for films like "Dukaan," expressed frustration over the lack of support for non-mainstream subjects, explaining that even with commercially viable elements like songs and vibrant visuals, securing a release or platform is challenging without a big name attached. They also criticize the shift where producers now prioritize securing OTT deals before even commencing production, a stark contrast to earlier filmmaking visions.

Furthermore, Siddharth-Garima passionately advocate for the recognition and fair treatment of writers, likening their plight to that of farmers. They emphasize that writers are the foundational element of any film, yet often face delayed payments, credit issues, and a general lack of appreciation for their crucial role in crafting compelling narratives. The filmmakers stressed that filmmaking is a collaborative effort, and diminishing any single contribution undermines the entire process.