Filmmaker Zoya Akhtar's upcoming project, Superboys of Malegaon, presents an underdog narrative centered around the Malegaon film industry. Despite this, Akhtar and her collaborators at Amazon MGM Studios have opted against a conventional wide theatrical release, choosing instead to pursue a more ambitious approach. In an interview with HT, Zoya discusses Superboys of Malegaon and emphasizes the role audiences play in ensuring the success of smaller films in theaters.

On small films' theatrical aspirations?

Regarding the aspirations of small films in theaters, Zoya asserts that the audience's desire for fresh talent and unique stories is evident. She states, "Audiences express their interest in new narratives and emerging artists on social media. Therefore, it is essential for them to actively support these films. Their endorsement will lead to more such projects being produced."

While Zoya acknowledges that India boasts a substantial film-viewing demographic, she questions why they do not frequent theaters more often. She explains, "The reality is that many individuals cannot afford to attend every film, leading them to be selective about their choices. This is not solely a matter of individual preference; it reflects a broader ecosystem at play. As a film-watching community, we cherish the theater experience."

Will OTT kill theatres?

On the topic of whether OTT platforms will overshadow theaters, Zoya notes the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdowns. "We are gradually emerging from the pandemic and the resulting hiatus in film attendance. During that period, there was a notable shift towards streaming services, and it will take time for the situation to normalize," she remarks.

Nevertheless, she remains unconvinced by those predicting the demise of theatrical cinema. Zoya contends, "Historically, with the advent of television, satellite, and now streaming, there have always been claims that cinema is on the verge of extinction. However, cinema is here to stay. These mediums will coexist, as each offers a distinct experience that cannot be replaced."

About Superboys of Malegaon

Reema Kagti directs Superboys of Malegaon, a film inspired by the experiences of Nasir Shaikh and fellow amateur filmmakers in Malegaon. The cast includes Adarsh Gourav, Vineet Kumar Singh, Shashank Arora, Anuj Singh Duhan, and Riddhi Kumar. Produced by Zoya Akhtar, Farhan Akhtar, Reema Kagti, and Ritesh Sidhwani, Superboys of Malegaon made its debut at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival and is scheduled for a global theatrical release on February 28.

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