Renowned lyricist and writer Javed Akhtar recently voiced his concerns about the commercial triumph of movies featuring problematic scenes, highlighting the potentially hazardous impact on societal perceptions. Speaking at the Ajanta Ellora International Film Festival in Aurangabad, Akhtar, without explicitly naming any film, pointed to the dangers posed by the box office success of such movies.
Expressing apprehension over the current trends in cinema, the 78-year-old highlighted the responsibility young filmmakers hold in shaping characters that align with societal values. He cited instances where specific scenes depicting questionable behavior gain traction and success, deeming it a concerning development.
Akhtar specifically referred to a scene, reminiscent of Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s ‘Animal,’ where the lead character prompts his mistress to perform an act of submission. While the movie has raked in nearly ₹900 crore globally, it faced criticism for its portrayal of misogyny and brutality.
Asserting that audiences play a pivotal role in determining the cinematic content, Akhtar emphasized the necessity for viewers to discern which films they endorse and reject. He stressed that the choice of promoting specific values and morals through cinema lies in the hands of the audience.
The veteran writer also highlighted the challenges faced by writers in depicting heroism on screen. He noted the complexities arising from societal ambiguity regarding right and wrong, emphasizing the need for a clear moral compass within society to shape impactful characters in stories.
Akhtar touched upon the evolution of societal perceptions, illustrating the contemporary struggle in portraying characters based on shifting societal norms. He highlighted the nuances faced by storytellers in depicting negative portrayals, considering the aspirational desires prevalent within society.
As Akhtar urged for a conscientious approach in filmmaking and audience discernment, he underscored the need for clarity in societal ethics to foster compelling storytelling without compromising on moral values.
Sources By Agencies
