National award-winning actress Kriti Sanon shared her thoughts on career decisions, OTT platforms, and the evolving role of women in cinema during her participation in the panel discussion, “Empowering Change: Women Leading the Way in Cinema,” held at Kala Academy, Goa, on the sidelines of IFFI 2024. The conversation shed light on her journey, the risks she took in choosing unconventional roles, and the profound impact that OTT platforms are having on women filmmakers.
In her conversation, Sanon reflected on her decision to choose the film Mimi, calling it the boldest career move she had ever made. The actress shared that many people advised her against taking the role, fearing it might typecast her as an actor focused on “art house” films, potentially hurting her future commercial opportunities. Despite the advice, Sanon chose Mimi because the script resonated deeply with her, which ultimately paid off when she won the National Award for Best Actress (Female) for the film.
“I was told it might affect my image in mainstream cinema, but the script touched my heart, and that’s the most important factor while choosing a project,” said Sanon, emphasizing that aspiring filmmakers should follow their instincts and passion when picking roles.
Kriti also spoke about her future aspirations, expressing her desire to play a superwoman character and exploring negative roles in films. She explained that while audiences enjoy connecting with complex, grey characters, the demand for “perfect” female roles is gradually diminishing, and there is a growing interest in more nuanced portrayals of women in cinema.
One of her standout roles was in Do Patti, where she described her character as layered and nuanced, especially within the context of domestic violence—a subject that she personally feels deeply about. Another role she mentioned was in Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, where she played a robot, a character that was challenging to portray with a straight face, but one that was widely appreciated by the audience.
Sanon also delved into the changing dynamics of how female characters are perceived in cinema, noting the shift in the “male gaze.” According to her, there is now more room for complexity in female characters, and audiences have begun to embrace this shift, connecting better with imperfect, multi-dimensional portrayals.
She further discussed the transformative role that OTT platforms are playing in amplifying female voices in the film industry. Sanon expressed admiration for the new generation of female writers who have gained entry into the industry, thanks to the reach and flexibility of OTT platforms. These platforms have not only provided a global stage for female filmmakers but have also given them the opportunity to present diverse stories to a worldwide audience.
“OTT platforms are giving female filmmakers and writers the ability to reach hundreds of countries, providing them with an immense platform to showcase their creativity and storytelling,” she said, acknowledging the power of digital platforms in providing a voice to underrepresented groups in the industry.
Towards the end of the discussion, Kriti encouraged women to continue growing both personally and professionally. She urged them to stay curious, ask questions, and put in their best effort to pursue their dreams. She strongly emphasized the importance of self-work and remaining open to new opportunities in both life and career.
Credit: This article is based on information from India Today, NDTV, and Times of India.
Key Highlights:-
- Kriti Sanon discusses her bold career choices, especially her decision to take the role in Mimi, which led to a National Award win.
- She expresses interest in playing a superwoman character and exploring negative roles in the future.
- Sanon highlights the growing acceptance of complex female characters and the changing “male gaze” in cinema.
- She praises OTT platforms for empowering female filmmakers by offering them global reach and creative freedom.