DEFYING ALL ODDS
“Many of these directors don’t need a male superstar to sell their movies. And even if well- known actors are a part of their films, their characters are quite relatable. That is the plus point these ladies have,” Renuka adds. Echoing the same thought, Abhinay Deo, director of Delhi Belly says, “I think female directors are spectacular and it’s great that so many of them are doing so well. It’s amazing that directors such as Zoya, Meghna Gulzar, Reema Kagti and Alankrita are touching incredible subjects with such amazing ease. They have an interesting point of view about things.”
The success of movies like
Raazi, Dil Dhadakne Do and Dear Zindagi is proof enough that female directors are capable of handling a big star ensemble as well as great content. However, to make a mark in a male- dominated industry, especially in a patriarchal country like India is not a cakewalk.
The director of the film
Maatr, Ashtar Sayed says, “The film industry is still a male dominated world and it can be tough for a young girl to get in to the industry without any mentor. Exploitation and sexual favours can also be a huge deterrent.”
Many times, big studios don’t want to risk investing on a female director. However, the odds are not going to stop these ladies. “Lipstick Under My Burkha made me realise that I have an audience interested in that genre. The public rarely says that they aren’t going to watch a movie because it is made by a woman. So long as a director’s story is good and the audience likes it, it doesn’t matter whether you are a male or a female director,” concludes Alankrita.
Many of the female directors don’t need a male superstar to sell their movies. And even if well- known actors are a part of their films, their characters are quite relatable. That is the plus point these ladies have — RENUKA SHAHANE, actress