Santhosh Shobhan: Being Outrageously Original Is the New Commercial

At the DishTV Watcho Storytellers Conclave, curated by Indian Television, actor Santosh Shobhan emphasized the importance of originality in filmmaking. In a discussion moderated by noted film critic Bharadwaj Rangan, Shobhan was asked about the future of good cinema amidst the dominance of big box office films and pan-India releases.

"Being outrageously original is the only way forward," Shobhan stated, highlighting that authentic storytelling is what truly makes a film worthwhile. He stressed that instead of chasing commercial trends, filmmakers should focus on crafting unique narratives that connect with audiences on a deeper level. He added that "authenticity is the new commercial".

As the Indian film industry increasingly leans toward large-scale, high-budget productions, Shobhan’s perspective serves as a reminder that originality remains the foundation of compelling cinema. His words resonate at a time when audiences are seeking fresh and meaningful stories beyond just spectacle and box office figures.

Reflecting on the industry's mindset, Shobhan remarked on how filmmakers often face the question, "Was this already done? Was it a hit?" He countered this by saying, "How does it matter? Untold stories should be welcomed." He stressed that it's storytelling itself that determines a movie's success, not whether it follows a formulaic approach or has been done before.

Shobhan's remarks highlight the shifting trends in the film industry, where storytelling that stays true to its roots and engages with real emotions is being recognized as the future of successful cinema.