Anurag Kashyap, the renowned Indian filmmaker, opens up about his journey in an exclusive interview, shedding light on the challenges he's faced despite his critical acclaim.
The Unseen Struggles of a Celebrated Director
While Anurag Kashyap's work has garnered global recognition, box office success has eluded him. In a recent interview, he candidly discusses the underperformance of some of his films, revealing that even his acclaimed crime drama, Gangs of Wasseypur, was not the commercial hit many believed it to be.
But here's where it gets controversial...
Unraveling the Truth Behind Gangs of Wasseypur
Contrary to popular belief, Gangs of Wasseypur (2012), a two-part crime saga, was not a financial success. In fact, it incurred a loss of Rs 8 crore, according to Viacom18 Motion Pictures. Kashyap emphasizes that none of his films has been a hit at the box office, but they find success after their time. He believes that the current generation has primarily watched his movies through online downloads rather than in theaters.
The Impact of Unfulfilled Projects
Kashyap further reveals the mental toll that the shelving of his ambitious project, Maximum City, by Netflix had on him. He had dedicated two years to the project, which was planned as a three-part movie spanning nine hours. The reason for Netflix's decision, he believes, was a minor issue that could have been easily resolved. He shares that the streaming giant's actions left him feeling hurt and disappointed.
A Fallout with Netflix
The fallout between Netflix and Kashyap is a result of the director's passion and dedication to his craft. Despite their previous collaborations on blockbuster projects like Sacred Games and Lust Stories, Netflix's decision to back out of Maximum City left a sour taste. Kashyap feels that they could have stopped him earlier, but their actions speak otherwise.
Addressing the Critics
When asked about his lack of commercial success in the last decade, Kashyap responds with a bold statement: "Even if my film didn't sell a single ticket, their loss is still less than the 80% of films that flop every year." He challenges his critics to prove their support by showing theater tickets for his movies, questioning how many of them actually watched his films on the big screen.
The Impact of Streaming and Downloading
Kashyap's revelation about the viewing habits of the current generation highlights the changing landscape of cinema. With the rise of streaming platforms and online downloads, the traditional theater experience is taking a backseat. This shift in viewing habits may impact the way films are made and perceived, especially for directors like Kashyap who value the theatrical experience.
A Call for Discussion
What are your thoughts on Anurag Kashyap's journey? Do you believe the impact of a film should be measured solely by box office success? Join the conversation and share your opinions in the comments below!
