Speaking exclusively to Businessofcinema.com, Subhash Ghai shares his opinion on the changing trend of the industry.
Excerpts:
You’ve recently introduced six new faces in the industry. What was the reason for making films with complete newcomers?
The industry needs new faces now. We see the same faces everywhere from films to television to endorsements; the industry needs some change. If we become so dependent on a few stars to make our films, then it’s going to be difficult to produce films because of date problems and also the kind of price tag they come with.
What do you have to say about the focus on small budget films these days?
I think it’s a great thing that small budget films are being made and also getting a platform along with the big budget films. Small budget films are our need today. Having said that, small budget films are also our interest because with the way cinema has progressed today. Today, films are not just about big stars and big budgets and exotic locations, they’re about the content. The audience too has changed.
What in your opinion works better – is small better or are bigger films still the route to take?
I would say small films are a lot less risky in terms of business. But it all depends on the content.
What’s your take on studios branching out separate banners to make small budget films?
Like I said, the audience has changed and there is this constant need to experiment with content to cater to the audience’s taste. Having a separate banner is more of a necessity today. It’s about not moving away from your brand but at the same time experimenting with something new. For example when we talk about Yash Raj Films, the audience associates it with the big budget romantic films that it’s best known for; therefore the need for a separate banner under the same studio with a newer, fresher genre of films, actors, technicians etc was the call of the hour.
What do you think of sequels and remakes?
According to me, all our films are sequels and we just change the title and package the film in a different way. As far as remakes are concerned, I do not believe in remakes.
You said you don’t believe in remakes, but you sold the remake rights of Karz? What did you think of the remake? Also would you be ready to give the rights of any of your other films to be remade?
Yes I did give the rights of Karz since they paid me money! (LAUGHS)! I have no comments about the remake. I would definitely give the rights to any of my films to be remade as long as they pay me!
When do we see you directing again?
At the moment, I am happy to be letting new talent take the front seat. There are a lot of talented young directors, actors, technicians etc in our industry and we need to encourage them.
