Four potent questions that delve into the ecosystem of indie filmmaking in India form the backbone of this indie film about indie films. Made during the lockdown period, the film relies on online meetings with filmmakers and an unintrusive dialogue format, getting them to open up their views, experiences and idiosyncrasies about independent filmmaking. Starting with the question, what makes a film an ‘indie film’?, the challenges of funding the production and on completion, accessing established platforms to take the film to the audience, this documentary travels down the road of indie filmmaking, riddled with roadblocks. The different voices in the film, though varying in their tone, are univocal about the fact that a compelling story lies at the heart of independent filmmaking. The story is often unconventional or uncomfortable and does not find support from the commercial producers or even from the audiences when the film is screened. But, a story that refuses to wait, drives the filmmaker to explore unconventional methods to get his film produced. But, his journey does not end once he makes the film. Reaching out to an appreciative audience is another uphill task, made even more challenging by the mainstream distribution system. But, with new technologies and new players in the field, film exhibition game is undergoing drastic changes at the moment. Does this hold promise for the future of Indie films in India?
‘What’s your story?’ is a documentary by O P Srivastsava about the Indie film scene in India. Speaking to Indie filmmakers, Srivastsava presents the ground realities facing the indie filmmakers and their films when pitted against the mainstream commercial films that hog the limelight. The documentary analyses the fundamental questions on discussion regarding Indie Films like, ‘Art vs Commerce’, ‘Collective vs Personal viewings’, ‘Storytelling vs Experiences’, ‘Art vs Craft’ etc., after listening to many voices from the fraternity. With a good mix of talking heads, behind-the-scenes footage, photographs and clips from the finished films, the film looks at a few new age platforms working towards creating a platform where Indie films can get their due.
‘What’s your story?’ is a comprehensive look into the Indie film ecosystem in India. This is a documentary highlighting the passion and the hard work behind the scenes, unearthing the struggles of telling uncomfortable, unconventional and controversial stories that do not make money.
