So, the verdict on DARNA MANA HAI is loud and clear. The film has appealed to a section of the audiences in big cities, but as it goes into the pockets – the not-too-big cities and towns – the business is not half as encouraging.
It cannot be denied that DARNA MANA HAI is an apt example of path-breaking cinema, but are the audiences ready for a change? Yes, they are!
Not too long ago, no maker would even dream of attempting a film like DARNA MANA HAI. But times are changing, albeit slowly. It's going to take time, but we do need gutsy film-makers like Ramgopal Varma who dare to walk the untrodden path.
Haven't most film-makers inflicted the clich?idden formula for decades? It's time for a change.
I'm not defending DARNA MANA HAI. It has several negative points, its writing leaves a lot to be desired. But at least the makers have had the guts to try out something new and that's what is important.
'JAAL-THE TRAP': A POSTMORTEM
Despite the fact that it had some brilliant action sequences, JAAL-THE TRAP failed to excite the audiences. Producer Harish Shah feels that though the action sequences were well executed, there were other factors that worked against the film.
"The action was one of its kind. In fact, a few friends from New York even called up to enquire whether we had co-ordinated with any international action director. But action alone cannot make a film a success," Shah says.
According to him, one of the reasons for the film's failure was the premature airing and the subsequent withdrawal of promos, which gave it a stale look. "The promos were first screened in October last year, followed by December and then April. That gave the film a stale look," Shah recalls.
METALIGHT BACK IN ACTION
The office of Metalight Productions is buzzing with activity since the past few days, what with two releases, 3 DEEWAREIN and OOPS!, in one week. Nagesh Kukunoor's 3 DEEWAREIN was long overdue and has been released at select multiplexes. “In view of so many releases, we felt that it was important to release it at a few screens only,” says Ravi Nalappa of Metalight.
The idea of holding a preview of the film at Sterling cinema, Mumbai prior to its release, has worked wonderfully well, according to Nalappa. "The response was so good that several people had to return disappointed without tickets," he says.
