Mahesh Manjrekar Declares Hindi Cinema in a Major Reset Phase
Actor-director Mahesh Manjrekar, renowned for his work in films like Vaastav and extensive contributions to regional cinema, has boldly stated that Hindi cinema is currently in the middle of a significant reset. He attributes this transformation to evolving audience expectations that now prioritize depth and emotional resonance over superficial spectacle.
Content Over Spectacle: A Necessary Correction
Manjrekar observes, "Cinema is in a phase of correction. For years, scale was mistaken for substance." He elaborates that today's viewers are no longer content with visual grandeur alone. "They want emotion with spectacle, not spectacle without emotion. A film must have a heartbeat before it has fireworks," he emphasizes. Reflecting on his own film Vaastav, he points out that sincerity is what endures. "Truth travels. Even today, the films that stay are the ones rooted in human conflict," he says, highlighting the timeless appeal of authentic storytelling.
The Star System Debate: Dependence vs. Power
Manjrekar does not dismiss the importance of stars but critically questions the industry's over-reliance on them. "Star power is not the problem. Dependence on it is," he asserts. He notes that memorable stars often emerge from well-written characters, and when writing falters, audiences turn to familiar faces for assurance. Contrasting this with regional cinema, he remarks, "The industry doesn't limit diverse narratives, fear does," suggesting that storytelling should take precedence over star-driven projects.
Theatre vs. Screen: A Shift Towards Craft
On the topic of theatre-trained actors, Manjrekar acknowledges that a gap still exists in cinema. "Cinema today often casts for visibility before ability," he admits. However, he is optimistic about the rise of digital platforms, which are fostering performance-driven casting. "Respect for craft always returns. It may take time, but authenticity cannot be sidelined forever," he concludes, predicting a gradual shift towards valuing acting prowess over mere popularity.
