Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman shares insights on the evolution of Indian cinema, emphasizing the importance of a global perspective to captivate international audiences. He highlights the role of young directors and the need for strategic storytelling.
Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman, known for his profound contributions to music and cinema, recently spoke about the transformative phase Indian cinema is experiencing. At the Bharat Pavilion during the Cannes Film Festival 2024, Rahman supported the music documentary Headhunting to Beatboxing, which delves into the musical evolution of the Naga tribe in Nagaland.
In an interview with The Times of India, Rahman expressed optimism about India’s increasing recognition on global platforms, such as Cannes. He highlighted India’s recent documentary wins and Grammy accolades but pointed out the need for growth in fiction films.
A Global Perspective for Indian Filmmakers
Rahman emphasized that Indian filmmakers should adopt a “global lens” when crafting their stories. He believes that understanding how to narrate Indian stories in a manner that resonates with international audiences is crucial. “Desi makers should start looking at cinema through a Western lens,” he said, suggesting that this approach could bridge cultural gaps and make Indian films more accessible worldwide.
Young Directors Leading the Change
Rahman is hopeful about the future of Indian cinema, especially with young directors at the forefront. He believes these directors have the potential to create movies that can travel across the globe and appeal to a wide range of cinema enthusiasts. The composer pointed out that smart scriptwriting and a deep understanding of cultural nuances that resonate globally are essential for this transition.
Challenges and Key Aspects
While hard work is vital, Rahman noted that it alone is “not enough.” Filmmakers must grasp the cultural elements they wish to showcase and consider the psychological and geopolitical contexts of their narratives. He stressed the importance of presenting the “right stories” with the “right tools” to achieve global impact.
A Cinematic Renaissance
Rahman is confident that Indian cinema is on the verge of a renaissance, with the potential to significantly influence world cinema. He described the current period as an “interesting space” for art and films, where Indian cinema could make its mark on a global scale.
Headhunting to Beatboxing: A Documentary with Broader Implications
The documentary Headhunting to Beatboxing, which explores the Naga community’s shift from violence to music, particularly resonated with Rahman. He sees it as a reflection of the broader changes affecting independent singer-songwriters in India. Having backed the 2021 film 99 Songs, Rahman is cautiously navigating film production, striving to contribute without compromising his music-making process. He aims for his productions to be “non-intrusive” and acknowledges the exhaustive nature of production work.
Conclusion
AR Rahman’s insights provide a roadmap for Indian filmmakers to elevate their craft to a global level. By focusing on strategic storytelling and understanding the global audience’s cultural context, Indian cinema can achieve a renaissance and leave a lasting impact on the world stage. Rahman’s vision is not just about hard work but about smart, culturally informed filmmaking that can resonate universally.
