Bollywood has been grappling with the issue of escalating budgets and entourage costs post-pandemic. The debate has divided Bollywood stars, with many weighing in on producers’ complaints. But is this problem exclusive to Bollywood? Tamil director Sudha Kongara recently revealed to News18 Showsha that the Tamil industry is facing similar issues. She acknowledged these challenges as part of the evolving trends in the industry.
“There are phases where the problems and challenges we face keep changing. At one point, our revenue was 80% theatrical and 20% other media. Then, we heavily relied on satellite sales. During COVID-19, we depended on OTT platforms. Now, OTT revenue is declining, and we have to revert to theatrical revenue,” she told us.
“When market equations change during transitions, challenges arise. As an industry, we need to regroup and find the best way to move forward smoothly. This kind of correction is happening in all industries and is necessary for sustainability,” the filmmaker added.
The industry seems to be on a path to correction now. On Monday, the Tamil Film Producers Council decided to halt new projects starting August 16 to clear the backlog of films awaiting release. They also aim to control rising production costs due to artist fees and other expenses.
Additionally, the council decided to stop film shoots and post-production work in Tamil cinema from November 1 onwards to “restructure and regulate expenditures” related to actors’ salaries and other production costs. This move is intended to improve and maintain the Tamil industry’s financial health.
Sudha Kongara also expressed her desire for the Tamil industry to adopt the role of an Assistant Director (AD). “As a director, the biggest problem I faced is not having the system of the first AD here in the Tamil film industry. We have co-directors, but I realized the value of a first AD while working with Abhishek Kapoor in Bollywood. Without a first AD, I’m doing two jobs simultaneously—directing and first AD—leading to constant stress and a short temper,” she shared.
The Irudhi Suttru director added that budget constraints are a significant issue, especially when exploring atypical storylines. “Budget is always a concern. If the economics don’t work, there’s no point in making the film. Budget constraints are a recurring problem,” she said.
Sudha explained that while common templates in the Tamil industry, like a common man fighting the system, often get funding, atypical concepts face budget issues. “When exploring subjects like an aviator in Soorarai Pottru or the corporate industry, convincing producers is tough. You have to cut down the budget, making it feel like an indie film. That challenge is always present,” she concluded.
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