Taapsee Pannu, known for her candid views and no-nonsense approach, has once again taken a stance on a prevalent issue in the Indian film industry – the dominance of the 'star system.' The versatile actor, who recently made her debut as a producer with the film "Dhak Dhak," has pointed out the hypocrisy that plagues the industry and the need for change. In a candid interview with ETimes, Taapsee delved into the challenges faced by small-budget films due to the prevailing star-centric culture in Bollywood. She emphasized that even before hearing a line about a film, people are often more concerned about "who is the hero." This singular factor often determines the financial and emotional investment in a project, even in the face of compelling content.
The Myth of 'Content Is King' Shattered
Taapsee's revelation challenges the long-standing notion that 'content is king' in the film industry. While this phrase has been widely touted, the ground reality sometimes paints a different picture. The obsession with star power, even at the cost of exceptional storytelling, often hinders the progress of meaningful cinema.
The actor shared her own perspective, stating, "As an actor, I never asked who my co-star is or how big the makers are when I signed a movie. I worked with so many first-time directors and co-stars who were newcomers, but that is not how others look at it."
The Detrimental Impact of the Star System
Taapsee Pannu believes that the star system continues to be a significant factor in the Indian film industry, even in the era of digital streaming platforms. This system, which prioritizes established stars, studios, and makers, can stifle the growth and diversity of the industry. It often discourages the exploration of new talent and unique narratives.
She pointed out the collective responsibility of all involved in the industry, including actors, studios, and the audience, in perpetuating this culture. The prevailing mindset that smaller films are primarily geared towards recovering investments through digital rights sales can undermine the effective packaging and release of these films. This trend can widen the gap between actors and stars and hinder the growth of meaningful cinema.
The Need for Change
Taapsee Pannu's remarks are a call for change in Bollywood's approach to cinema. She highlighted the importance of supporting films that prioritize content and storytelling, even if they feature lesser-known actors or first-time directors. Breaking away from the 'star system' and providing opportunities for diverse voices and narratives is essential for the growth and evolution of the industry.
As the actor's recent film "Dhak Dhak" explores the journey of four women and the essence of sisterhood, it serves as a testament to the kind of content that can thrive when the 'star system' doesn't take center stage. Taapsee's candid words serve as a reminder that while the industry may have its challenges, the commitment to meaningful cinema and storytelling remains unshaken. It's a call for change, an assertion that 'content is king' should be more than just a myth – it should be a guiding principle for the industry's future.
