New Delhi: Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has voiced concern over what he described as inadequate theatrical support for Indian films, urging cinema chains to give greater priority to domestic releases instead of allocating a large number of shows to a Hollywood blockbuster.
In a post shared on his Instagram Stories, Kashyap said several Indian films are struggling to secure sufficient screening slots despite positive audience interest. He pointed to his recent directorial venture Bandar, starring Bobby Deol, as well as Imtiaz Ali’s Main Vaapas Aaunga, Singeetam Srinivasa Rao’s Sing Geetham and Manoj Bajpayee-led Governor as examples of films receiving limited show timings.
According to Kashyap, the issue is not the popularity of the Hollywood release Obsession, but the imbalance in show allocation. He argued that while audiences are free to choose what they want to watch, Indian films should not be sidelined in the process.
"Obsession" continues to occupy multiple daily slots across theatres, while several domestic productions are struggling to gain visibility, he noted.
The filmmaker said a healthier exhibition ecosystem is necessary for the growth of Indian cinema and questioned how local films can thrive if they are not given adequate opportunities to reach audiences.
Directed by Curry Barker, Obsession stars Michael Johnston and Inde Navarrette in lead roles. The film follows a socially awkward music store employee whose feelings for his childhood friend shape the story. The movie has emerged as a major box-office success worldwide, earning more than USD 200 million globally and crossing Rs 60 crore in India.
(With agency inputs from PTI)