Director Kanu Behl’s film “Agra” is struggling to secure adequate screening slots in multiplex chains across India following its November 14 release. The independent film was critically acclaimed at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival. Behl has voiced his displeasure, attributing the issue to the dominance of “big blockbuster” movies.
Veteran actor Manoj Bajpayee has publicly supported Behl, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by independent filmmakers.
Behl took to X (formerly Twitter) to share an update on “Agra’s” release challenges. He stated the film is being denied shows because of what he termed “big blockbusters” and the perception that smaller films “don’t fit into” multiplex programming. Behl urged audiences to demand the film’s screening from cinema chains.
Update on ‘Agra’, the film: We’re being denied shows because of the so called ‘big blockbusters’ and because small films ‘don’t fit into’ multiplex chain programming. It’s up to you the audience now! Speak up and tag the chains. Say that you want to see the film!
— Kanu Behl (@KanuBehl) November 13, 2023
While Behl did not name specific films, the discussion often centers around high-budget commercial releases. This week’s releases include films like Ajay Devgn and R. Madhavan’s “De De Pyaar De 2,” which fits the description of a large-budget, star-driven production.
Bajpayee retweeted Behl’s post, expressing solidarity. He noted that the struggle for independent cinema has been ongoing for a long time. Independent creators and their art are frequently overlooked in the broader cinematic landscape.
Bajpayee encouraged Behl to continue his efforts, stating that his work truly matters. He called on audiences to support meaningful smaller films by asking theaters to provide them with a fair opportunity.
It has been so long fighting this battle, and indie makers and their art often get overlooked in the wider cinema space. Keep at it, Kanu, your effort truly matters. Everyone should come forward and support small meaningful cinema by asking their theatres to give these films a… https://t.co/geVi93cSNv
— manoj bajpayee (@BajpayeeManoj) November 14, 2023