NewKerala.com

Subhash Ghai on Remaking Classics: Cinema Evolves Like Society

Veteran director Subhash Ghai shared his views on the trend of recreating Bollywood classics, stating that cinema naturally evolves as a reflection of society. He explained that creative work is rooted in its specific time and era, with new narratives emerging every 30 years. Ghai highlighted how the digital space has expanded opportunities to tell diverse stories. The comments came as his film institute, Whistling Woods, celebrated its 25th anniversary with a convocation attended by actor Jackie Shroff.

Key Points: Subhash Ghai Views on Remaking Bollywood Classics

  • Cinema reflects societal change
  • Digital space opens new storytelling avenues
  • Creative work is tied to its era
  • Narratives evolve every few decades
2 min read

Subhash Ghai reveals his views on the ongoing trend of recreating timeless classics

Veteran filmmaker Subhash Ghai shares his perspective on the trend of recreating timeless songs and films, calling cinema a reflection of changing society.

"Cinema is like a reflection of life and people. Just like how people change with time, so does cinema. - Subhash Ghai"

Mumbai, Jan 26

Veteran filmmaker Subhash Ghai decided to share his views on the ongoing trend of recreating timeless classic songs. The 'Taal' maker stated that cinema is a reflection of society and hence, just like people change with time, so does cinema.

Speaking exclusively with IANS on the sidelines of his popular film institute, Whistling Woods, completing 25 years, Ghai shared that the digital space has opened up opportunities for creative people to share all kinds of stories.

The 'Karma' maker was asked, "In today's cinema, where there is a trend of recreating Bollywood timeless classics, filmmakers like yourself who have delivered timeless music and timeless films, do you see this trend as nostalgia or a creative risk?"

To this, he told IANS, "I believe any creative work takes place in its time and era. The cinema of Dadasaheb Phalke, V. Shantaram, Mehboob Khan, the acting of K. L. Saigal, the work of Gulzal, and Bimal Roy, then came Manoj Kumar, Prakash Mehra, like this, new characters come into play every 30 years."

"Cinema is like a reflection of life and people. Just like how people change with time, so does cinema. Not just that, expressions and narratives also change. The narrative today does not match the narrative of the 80s and 90s," the director went on to add.

He further pointed out how, ever since the emergence of the digital space, there is an opportunity to tell every kind of story.

Meanwhile, as Whistling Woods completed 25 years, the significant milestone was marked by the annual convocation for more than 300 students who will soon be commencing their professional journey.

The event was also attended by Ghai's 'Hero' actor Jackie Shroff, who also gave away the awards to the graduates.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Respectfully, I disagree with the trend. Most recreations are just cheap copies for quick box office success. They lack the soul and effort of the original compositions. Filmmakers should focus on creating new classics instead of ruining old ones.
A
Aman W
True that! The digital space has changed everything. My niece discovers old songs through these new versions. It's a bridge between eras. But the original "Taal" or "Khalnayak" songs? Unbeatable yaar.
S
Sarah B
As someone who grew up watching Bollywood in the US, I find this interesting. The remixes help introduce the music to a global audience with a modern beat. But I always go back to watch the original movie scenes on YouTube!
K
Karthik V
Ghai Saab is a legend. When he speaks about cinema, we should listen. He's seen the change from reels to digital. If he says it's a natural evolution, then it probably is. Congrats to Whistling Woods on 25 years!
N
Nisha Z
The problem isn't recreation, it's poor execution. A few like "Ghungroo" from War did justice. Most are forgettable. We need the creativity of the 90s with the technology of today. That's the real challenge.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50