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Manoj Bajpayee, Raj Nidimoru, Krishna D.K, Apoorva Bakshi, & Srikrishna Dayal at 54th IFFI

24 November 2023, IFFI Premises: Today, Manoj Bajpayee, Raj Nidimoru, Krishna D.K, Apoorva Bakshi, and Srikrishna Dayal attended a Master Class session on Crafting Compelling Web Series for OTT at 54 IFFI, Goa.


Manoj Bajpayee's Communiqué, "OTT platforms should support independent and creative filmmaking."



Pritish Bagdi

From L to R: Host Naman Ramachandran, Apoorva Bakshi, Raj Nidimoru, Krishna D.K., Mr. Manoj Bajpayee, Mr. Srikrishna Dayal


Manoj Bajpayee, a cinematic beacon of brilliance, unravelled an actor's intriguing journey. He painted the canvas of an actor's goal and passion to breathing life into a character with his words, emphasising the critical necessity of preparation, consistency, character graph, and embracing the flow that challenges and enriches every actor's essence. "You have to prepare well for the role and then forget about it to keep your mind empty to be receptive to new ideas coming," he went on to say.

The Family Man actor, speaking on the success, shortcomings, and future of OTT, stated that OTT platforms should encourage independent creative films.

Srikrishna Dayal, a theatrical maestro and another prominent performer in The Family Man series, spoke of the symbiotic relationship between the stage and the digital canvas of OTT, remarking that the most significant benefit of OTT platforms is regular watching. He stated that the discipline learned in the theatre allows players to grow in their versatility across many genres of acting.

Raj Nidimoru, co-director of the OTT Series The Family Man, highlighted the tremendous impact of documentaries on the ever-changing OTT landscape, reflecting the feelings of a shifting paradigm. He emphasised the importance of these storylines on the platform.

Krishna D.K., co-director of the OTT Series The Family Man, has created a canvas of continual learning, unlearning, and relearning that has assisted in traversing the spectrum of independent filmmaking, shows, and series for the OTT platform.

Raj and D.K., the dynamic director team, extolled their indie filmmaking background as a springboard for their work on OTT, and it distinctively shapes their creativity on the platform. They underlined the importance of story confidence in pushing for compelling storytelling even while working within budget limits.

Apoorva Bakshi, who came from a banking background to produce the acclaimed 'Delhi Crime' series, emphasised the importance of faith in the script, explaining the basics for story engineering in both fiction and non-fiction genres. Extending on the preparation of a pitch for a new series called Bible in the OTT environment, I demonstrated the need of a clear idea note in fiction, as well as a well-crafted pilot, and the importance of comprehensive research in non-fiction genres.


The teaser for Manoj Bajpayee's next opus Joram was also shown at the end of the event, enticing spectators with promises of yet another cinematic marvel.

Notably, IFFI has created the Best Web Series (OTT) Award this year to recognise the creativity and talent behind the burgeoning digital entertainment. This year, 32 entries from 15 OTT platforms were received in 10 languages. The winning series will receive certificates and a monetary award of Rs.10 lakhs, which will be disclosed during the closing ceremony.







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Zoya Akhtar's communiqué, "ARCHIE comic meant the world to me!"

22 November 2023, IFFI Premises: The Archies aspires to transmit the innocence, naivety, and friendship of the iconic Archie comic into a two-hour long narrative for today's young generation, said six-time Filmfare award winner Zoya Akhtar during a 'In Conversation' session on 'The Archies - Made in India' held yesterday at the 54th IFFI in Goa.


Swati Bhat


When asked about the difficulties of converting a comic story into a film, Zoya Akhtar noted that capturing the essence and nuances of the Archie comic, given its enormous success, and making it into a great cinematic experience for the viewer was extremely difficult. "It was an important part of my childhood." The characters are legendary and worldwide loved, and creating a picture that fires the nostalgia of a generation that grew up on the comic while also connecting with today's young adults is a completely new experience in scriptwriting,'' she added.


"It's a huge source of pride that Archie Comics' characters and stories have resonated with fans globally, especially in India, for more than 50 years," said Jon Goldwater, CEO of Archie Comic. Throughout the film, the filmmakers maintained the integrity and realism of each imaginary character. The Archie team in New York is really proud of the film.



Jon Goldwater, CEO, Archie Comic, said, “it's a huge source of pride that the Archie Comics’ characters and stories resonate with fans globally, and especially  in India, for more than 50 years. The filmmakers kept the integrity and authenticity of each fictional characters intact throughout the film. The Archie team in New York are very much proud of the film.’’



"This is a big moment for Netflix India where we get a global franchise by doing the first ever feature film in the history of Archie comics," said Ruchikaa Kapoor Sheikh, Director of Content, Netflix India. It is an Indian culture film that will also appeal to a worldwide audience."






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There is no specific formula for acting: Vijay Sethupathi at 54th IFFI, Goa

22 November 2023, IFFI Premises: During an interesting 'In-Conversation' event at the 54th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Kala Academy, Goa, veteran actress Kushboo Sundar and acclaimed actor Vijay Sethupathi gave insights into their experiences and comments on their cinematic journey.


Swati Bhat

In-Conversation session with Vijay Sethupathi and Kushboo Sundar


Vijay Sethupathi is a versatile actor in the Indian film industry. He has appeared in almost 50 films. Seenu Ramasamy's Thenmerku Paruvakatru, which won three National honours, was his first starring role.

Vijay Sethupathi replied, "I know that I don't know" when asked about his acting journey. He revealed, as a multifaceted character in the Indian film business, that his preparation for parts includes learning from discussions and fights with great brains in the film fraternity.

When asked about his image in different roles, Sethupathi stated that moviegoers are drawn to the plot and characters rather than the star of the film. When asked about acting, he highlighted the need of giving the mind freedom and "going with the flow." He went on to say that "there is no formula for acting" and that one must thoroughly immerse themselves in the character.

Mr. Sethupathi stated that he wanted to depict the real-life problems experienced by transgender people in his portrayal of a transgender character in the film Super Deluxe, which got him the National Award.

During his interactions with the attendees, he emphasised the need of keeping the spirit of learning alive in order to remain grounded.

Mr. Sethupathi acknowledged his aim to avoid being restricted to specific roles when asked about his choice of villain parts. He emphasised the significance of having the freedom to play different parts dependent on the script.







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