OTT throws light on gender issues

When Aligarh (2016) released in cinemas, we were ecstatic that a film on a taboo subject (being gay was still a criminal offence), was getting a respectable release. The reviews were fantastic, the conversations in the media overwhelming, but saunter into a cinema hall, and you’d see 12 people watching the film. This was the case with most films that explored darker themes, gender issues, or human rights stories.

Naturally, exhibitors, distributors and most trade press treated us like that poor cousin that was overstaying his welcome. Our movies were elbowed out for the next big starrer. This was heartbreaking for films that were just beginning to build on a positive word of mouth. I often hoped that they’d leave the film in just a week longer... Alas, the silver screen rarely gave small films that opportunity.

The silver lining often came in the form of audience response from film’s online viewing (often pirated versions). My message box would be filled with a passionate understanding of plight of the professor in Aligarh, how

FOR YEARS, SERIOUS FILMMAKERS, INSPITE OF MAKING GREAT FILMS, COULD NOT STAND TALL AGAINST THOSE FLASHING 100 CRORE POSTERS.

they couldn’t watch the film in cinemas because they didn’t want people to think they were gay or from women married to gay men. I realised then, that some content demanded to be watched in private.

For years, serious filmmakers, inspite of making great films, could not stand tall against those flashing 100 crore posters. But in 2020, something changed. A locked-down world trained its sights on OTT platforms as its only source of entertainment, and discovered a diverse palate of content – well-produced, layered and tackling uncomfortable subjects. In the ‘safety’ of their homes, audiences are now able to understand a gangster’s love for a beautiful transperson (Sacred Games), a young gay man escape his emotional demons by having one night stands with random men (Made In Heaven), and diverse women standing up to domestic abuse (Criminal Justice: Behind Closed Doors). None of these success stories are headlined by stars who ‘rule’ the marquee, they are mounted with strong actors and a well prepared script.

Viewers are under no pressure to watch this content in its opening weekend. There is no 100 crore club. And the very same creators, who were ridiculed for daring to dream big, are finally standing tall in their digital stardom.

The author has written Aligarh, Shahid & Criminal Justice behind Closed Doors

Disclaimer: The views expressed here are author’s personal