In an era dominated by commercial blockbusters, a new generation of Indian filmmakers is quietly revolutionizing cinema, telling stories that challenge, provoke, and illuminate the complexities of contemporary India. MUBI, the global streaming platform known for curating thought-provoking films, has become a sanctuary for these unique voices.
Let’s look at some of these unique voices and their role in transforming the contemporary Indian cinema:
First up is Archana Phadke’s ‘About Love’; this movie is a realistic portrayal of the dynamics of an Indian family. Equipped with a camera, Phadke points it at her multi-generational Mumbai home. It isn’t just a portrayal of a family; it is a study of the structures that control the lives of women in contemporary India. Phadke shows how the subtle details and raw moments like these make the fine line between the ancient customs and the new changes visible.
Next on the list is Sreemoyee Singh’s ‘And, Towards Happy Alleys’ which takes us beyond Indian borders but has been shot keeping in mind the Indian diaspora. Her documentary on Iran’s artists showcases an interview with filmmaker Jafar Panahi and lawyer Nasrin Sotoudeh creating a cloth of defiance and optimism. Singh’s work also proves that Indian filmmakers are slowly exploring the world while keeping the indigenous touch.
Additionally, Vinay Shukla’s ‘While We Watched’ comes at a sensitive time in Indian journalism. Based on senior journalist Ravish Kumar, the film provides an insight into a news production house struggling to keep the truth alive in the age of hype. It is a demonstration of how the new age of storytelling can capture our history and produce stories that should be told and shared by future audiences.
In ‘Jaggi’, Anmol Sidhu addresses the issue of patriarchy in Punjab in a very brave manner. Made on a very low budget, and with a lot of realism, the film questions the conventional portrayal of Punjabi males. Ramnish Chaudhary’s performance in the role of ‘Jaggi’ the title character, enriches this daring portrayal of gender roles and societal norms.
Arun Fulara’s, short film, “My Mother’s Girlfriend” is not so common in Indian cinema. Set against the background of lively markets and secluded beaches, this tender portrayal of romance between two older women challenges age and gender stereotypes while celebrating the universality of love putting focus on the LGBTQ+ community.
These new-age filmmakers in Indian cinema are more than just realistic, political and experimental. Their work does not only cross the boundaries of musical genres that are popular around the world but also presents the viewers with a different perspective on India and its culture.
What makes MUBI's curation special is its commitment to these emerging voices. The platform doesn't just stream these films; it contextualizes them, creating a space where audiences can discover and engage with cinema that matters. These aren't just movies; they're windows into an India rarely seen on mainstream screens. All these films provide a different insight into the present-day India and each of them breaks some stereotypes and widens the horizons of what Indian cinema can offer.
You can stream these movies on MUBI by availing a 1-month-free subscription through this link to see a cinematic evolution in the making, an Indian cinematic industry that is telling new stories for the world. These are the voices that are going to define the future of Indian cinema, and their stories are something which need to be told.
(Images by MUBI)
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