It's exaggerated that film industry is divided: Mahesh Bhatt
Delhi
March 17
Filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, who is outspoken about his views on the country's socio-political
issues, says the view that the movie industry in India is "divided",
is exaggerated.
"I think it's an exaggerated view that film industry is
divided. Take Anupam Kher as an example. He is our guy, but his political ideologies
are completely different from me. But our bond is as it was and will remain
as it is," the veteran filmmaker said at News18 India Chaupal here on Friday.
Bhatt's next production is Srijit Mukherji-directed "Begum
Jaan", in which actress Vidya Balan essays the madam of a brothel. The
film's trailer gives a hint at the boldness Vidya has shown for the role as
she mouths expletives uninhibitedly.
At a time when the censor board uses its scissors very often
to snip out scenes, Bhatt says they were sure that if any problems arise, they
will go to court.
"But we were surprised with the pathbreaking decision
of the censor board. Our film was passed without any cuts. 'Begum Jaan' is trying
to set a moral compass, and that's why it is different from others," he
pointed out.
Bhatt, who believes storytellers address the moral and ethical
problems of the society through their work, also spoke of controversies surrounding
films.
"It is a fact that with controversies, you get a lot of
media attention and media space but it is not necessary that it converts into
tickets. But if the situation is of law and order, that can turn into a loss.
It's bad business.
"Yes, controversies are engineered, but again, it's not
necessary that they convert into tickets and financial gain.
It's an attention economy. Everyone wants attention at minimum purchase,"
he said.
Delhi
March 17
Filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, who is outspoken about his views on the country's socio-political
issues, says the view that the movie industry in India is "divided",
is exaggerated.
"I think it's an exaggerated view that film industry is
divided. Take Anupam Kher as an example. He is our guy, but his political ideologies
are completely different from me. But our bond is as it was and will remain
as it is," the veteran filmmaker said at News18 India Chaupal here on Friday.
Bhatt's next production is Srijit Mukherji-directed "Begum
Jaan", in which actress Vidya Balan essays the madam of a brothel. The
film's trailer gives a hint at the boldness Vidya has shown for the role as
she mouths expletives uninhibitedly.
At a time when the censor board uses its scissors very often
to snip out scenes, Bhatt says they were sure that if any problems arise, they
will go to court.
"But we were surprised with the pathbreaking decision
of the censor board. Our film was passed without any cuts. 'Begum Jaan' is trying
to set a moral compass, and that's why it is different from others," he
pointed out.
Bhatt, who believes storytellers address the moral and ethical
problems of the society through their work, also spoke of controversies surrounding
films.
"It is a fact that with controversies, you get a lot of
media attention and media space but it is not necessary that it converts into
tickets. But if the situation is of law and order, that can turn into a loss.
It's bad business.
"Yes, controversies are engineered, but again, it's not
necessary that they convert into tickets and financial gain.
It's an attention economy. Everyone wants attention at minimum purchase,"
he said.
Tags: Mahesh BhattVidya BalanBegum Jaan