Directors Priyadarshan and Aashiq Abu represent two generations of Malayalam filmmakers.
Their films differ in style and substance. However, they agree on one classification – there are only good films and bad films. The consensus evolved in an intriguing discussion on new-generation films held as part of the Manorama News Conclave in Kochi on Friday.
Besides the two filmmakers, actor Tovino Thomas and singer Sithara Krishnakumar participated in the concluding session of the conclave.
Admitting that he was conservative, Priyadarshan said filmmakers have to adapt to the changing times.
However, he said upbringing influences art and it will not change over years.
Priyadarshan does not want to make a film that will embarrass parents when they watch it with kids.
In his introductory remarks, Aashiq Abu said the term new generation was problematic.
“New ways of film making was always there. I haven't yet understood the criteria that decides what is a new-gen film,” he said.
A major topic of discussion was the social auditing filmmakers have to face in the present times.
Tovino said he has acted in intimate scenes only in 3 or 4 of his 33 films.
However, audience discuss it too much, he said.
There are more critics than viewers these days, Tovino said.
“Nitpicking won't help a film,” he said.
All the panellists agreed that star power was a reality in Malayalam cinema.
Agreeing with the directors and the actor, Sithara said our visual habits influences our tastes.
Sithara said she was part of a community which enjoys films of stars.
To a question on the distinct identity of new generation art, Sithara said talent and technology weigh equally these days.
“Technicians try to explore the art in technology and artistes try to use good technology to convey their art,” she said.
