All 'not rosy' in Malayalam cinema industry, but conclave gives attendees hope

When the cinema conclave concluded in Thiruvananthapuram with a media briefing by Cultural Minister Saji Cherian, a sense of satisfaction was evident among several stakeholders. However, remarks by veteran filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan against SC/ST communities and women cast a shadow over what should have been a jubilant moment for both the industry and the state government. Despite this, optimism remained, with many participants expressing happiness at finally having a platform to voice their concerns and complaints.

Filmmaker Anjali Menon, a key figure in the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC), said she was satisfied with the conclave’s role in amplifying the voices of the less privileged within the film industry. “It’s been empowering, especially for all those who have never had the chance to raise their voices. We are more privileged because we had the space to create a voice and speak, but many never had that opportunity until now.”

Menon stressed the importance of implementation, adding: “It is heartening to know that our concerns have been addressed. However, implementation is key. There can be policies and laws, but the real proof is in their execution. Now, they have given us hope, and that is an exciting place to be,” she told Onmanorama.

Screenwriter Deedi Damodaran said she was glad the conclave helped dispel the notion that the cinema industry is a happy, perfect unit. “There was a time when we had to wait 4.5 years for the Hema Commission Report to be released. So, while we are not overwhelmed, we are definitely encouraged that so many at the conclave raised the same questions the WCC has consistently asked. This shows that the cinema industry is not a happy space at the moment. However, we truly appreciate the government for conducting this conclave — they have proven themselves to be strong-willed.”

Deedi also felt that the conclave has opened doors to feminist thought within the industry. “There was a time when the WCC was mocked for its feminist perspectives. But now, even the court wants people with a feminist perspective on the cinema conclave committee. The conclave has helped bring about change in how feminist perspectives are viewed.”

Ansiba Hassan, joint secretary of AMMA, said that times are changing and the conclave highlighted the need to embrace new technologies. “The conclave was not just a venue for raising concerns. It acknowledged the imperative for change, discussing the need for better visual production quality and other aspects of filmmaking.”

Dubbing artist Bhagyalakshmi commended the Kerala government’s initiative to host a conclave that focused mainly on women’s issues. “While other industries mostly address a lack of facilities, I think ours is the only industry that has given so much importance to women’s safety. It is also impressive that the conclave discussed issues like the casting couch. It is unacceptable that men are exploiting newcomers. I am sure this kind of exploitation happens across various industries, but we could be the ones to lead the way.”

The needs of independent filmmakers were also addressed. Saji Cherian promised to ensure that independent films would be screened at least once in government-run theatres and assured that more incentives would be provided to indie filmmakers. Director Prathap Joseph had earlier told Onmanorama that the state continues to provide only Rs 2 lakh as an incentive to fund independent films — a sum currently lower than what other states in the country offer.

The two-day conclave also discussed pressing issues such as review bombing and the need to abolish the entertainment tax, which continues to be a significant burden for filmmakers in the state.All 'not rosy' in Malayalam cinema industry, but conclave gives attendees hope