Kannada Cinema's Challenge: Crafting Stories for a Unpredictable Audience

Filmmakers Roopa Rao and Sahadev Kelvadi discuss the complexities of creating films for the discerning Kannada audience. Despite initial struggles, their 2019 film 'Gantumoote' found unexpected success, inspiring their latest venture 'Kenda.' They highlight the need for industry changes to support diverse storytelling in Kannada cinema.

Filmmakers Roopa Rao and Sahadev Kelvadi are acutely aware of the complexities involved in appealing to the Kannada audience.

'In Tamil Nadu, people love raw movies. In Malayalam, it's rooted films. We remake these films but many, including the classics like the Telugu film 'Swathi Muthyam,' don't always succeed here. We still don't know what the Kannada audience truly wants,' Rao observes.

Despite these challenges, Rao and Kelvadi persist in making films that delve into the intricacies of daily life and societal reflections. Rao's 2019 debut film, 'Gantumoote,' explored adolescence and sexuality through a young girl's perspective. Initially dismissed for its 'taboo' subject, the film triumphed, reaching an unexpected level of success.

'I thought even if 2,000 people watched the film, it would be great. The reception was overwhelming. From 38 screens initially, it ultimately played in 70,' recounts Rao.

This validation bolstered their confidence for their next project, 'Kenda,' directed by Kelvadi. 'Gantumoote's' acceptance fuels our hope for 'Kenda,' he adds.

Slated for release on July 26, 'Kenda' deviates from the typical Kannada film. Set at a leisurely pace, it explores themes of masculinity, power, and politics, driven by character depth rather than plot twists.

With its success at film festivals and Kelvadi winning Best Debut Director at the 14th Dada Saheb Phalke Film Festival, the duo feels validated but acknowledge the challenges of theatrical release.

'The industry needs to adapt. Film consumption has changed, but exhibition spaces haven't,' Rao points out. 'For quality films to thrive, cinemas need smaller screens to sustain viewership,' she argues. 'By not providing these films space, we're depriving future generations of rich cinematic experiences.'

(With inputs from agencies.)