By 2022, OTT platforms may have figured out a wiser, more successful method to engage people by focusing on plot and appropriate talent rather than celebrity power.
In India, the years 2021 and 2022 will be watershed moments for streaming. With the epidemic causing a shift in watching patterns, original tales from India, including films and lengthier formats such as web series, have maintained a constant audience. New actors and directors/writers have achieved recognition and appeal, according to the IMDB list of most-watched Hindi series in 2021. New content makers backed Grahan, The Last Hour, and Dhindhora, which also included new actors.
Web series have provided possibilities for performers to discover character roles and a relevant presence in a plot alongside established stars and seasoned talent, in addition to attracting audiences. Gagan Arora, a young actor who rose to prominence as a result of his roles in Tabbar (Sony Liv) and The Fame Game (Netflix), on how this has benefited him as a performer. “OTT platforms have provided possibilities for aspiring performers such as myself. In addition, major filmmakers and performers are developing a lengthier format since they have a compelling tale to tell (for long format). This gives aspiring actors like us the opportunity to collaborate with skilled experts. As a result of this environment, I was able to get a head start and work with stars like Madhuri Dixit and Pawan Malhotra.
In tried-and-true genres, OTT platforms have also brought new life to narrative. For example, SonyLIV, which has produced unique thrillers such as Avrodh, Undekhi, and Candy, has used relatively new filmmakers in these projects. With Nirmal Pathak Ki Ghar Wapsi, they’ve given the oft-told Hindi heartland narrative a new spin. This program has focused on socioeconomic issues and challenges in rural North India without using the usual clichés of vernacular abuse, many personal scenes, or pure firearms and gore-driven violence.
“I had written this tale for quite some time, but most producers wanted to give it a masala twist,” explains Rahul Pandey, the series’ writer and co-director. SonyLIV agreed to keep this narrative accurate and accepted it based on my personal experiences. A specific formula is expected when it comes to Hindi heartland-based programming (on OTT). As an artist, I was resolved not to follow a formula but to present a genuine tale based on what I had witnessed as a child. I utilized original Bhojpuri and did not use a mixed altered language because of the platform’s support. Regardless of Nirmal Pathak’s acceptance, I believe the effort to share truthful tales will continue.
Original films for OTT may not have piqued the interest of prominent Hindi filmmakers in the past. However, with theatrical releases usually failing to entice consumers, platforms have piqued directors’ attention and resulted in larger expenses. Indian Police Force was created by Rohit Shetty for Prime Video. Bejoy Nambiar is a director who frequently creates series or films. In fact, the Archies adaption, directed by Zoya Akhtar and co-written by Reema Kagti and starring Suhana Khan, Khushi Kapoor, and Agastya Nanda, has generated a lot of buzz right from the start. It elicited conflicting reactions, with some claiming that no one could connect to such a life in India, even in the 1960s, and others blaming nepotism.
We viewed The Archies as a unique chance to bring the world of Archie comics to life as a live-action musical starring seven young and brilliant actors. The legendary Archies’ gang is at the core of the film, which masterfully captures the young energy, hope, and enthusiasm of the 1960s. For years, Archies’ characters, adventures, and friendships have enthralled people all around the world, and we’re excited to collaborate with the talented Zoya Akhtar to bring the world of Archies to life for fans and members…”
