Courtroom sagas on OTTs a hit with audiences
Cinematic representations of stories, confrontations, revelations and judgements within the four walls of a courtroom have always fascinated the audience. Films such as the Jolly LLB series, Pink (2016), Mulk (2018) and Section 375 (2019) in the recent past have done well. The genre seems to be catching up in the Indian content segment on OTT too. Success of Criminal Justice: Behind Closed Doors (CJ), Nail Polish (NP), Illegal season 1 (2020), Your Honour (2020) and The Verdict – State vs Nanavati (2019) are proof.
“We like to hear arguments and counter-arguments. Courtrooms are places of debates, the twist and turns that such debate brings about and of course the revelation that comes along. This is one genre that audiences have liked across generations. A well-written story can do wonders. Luckily Bugs Bhargava Krishna (writer-director of Nail Polish) wrote an enthralling story, which isn’t just about somebody committing a crime but also defines whether it’s the mind or body that commits the crime,” says actor-director, Anand Tiwari, who plays a lawyer in NP.
Sources say a few courtroom dramas are expected soon including Illegal season 2 and Criminal Justice season 3.
Film critic and trade expert Joginder Tuteja says the cocktail of crime, suspense, mystery, and a conclusion is one that intrigues the audience. “The series format suits best for the genre as it allows enough time to develop the story, explain certain legal proceedings,” he shares.
Amid the discussion around how the Indian space explores content high on crime, sex, killing etc, courtroom dramas are a refreshing change, says trade expert Atul Mohan. “We can’t do the same thrillers again and again as after a point it gets boring,” he says.
CJ director Rohan Sippy feels the genre offers scope in terms of unique narratives. “With so much happening around, such stories have become more relevant. Sometimes it also helps us learn the less known aspects of law,” he says.
This genre, however, needs to be handled carefully. “Between not going overboard in a way that might offend someone, to making the story interesting and unique for the audience is a tough balance, but achievable,” says Krishna, who is planning to make another show in the genre.