Hansal Mehta Believes Budget Constraints Don’t Restrict Filmmakers From Making Good Content; Says, “Preparation And Development Are Key Things”

Hansal Mehta spoke about how budget constraints don’t restrict a filmmaker who intends to make great content. Mehta was speaking at the FICCI BAF Awards event yesterday in Mumbai where the FICCI -EY Media and Entertainment report was launched.

Hansal Mehta Believes Budget Constrints Don’t Restrict Filmmaker’s Content

During the interaction, Hansal Mehta emphasised the critical role of writing and preparation to make good cinema. “If you spend the most time writing the development cycle, then there is assurance that what you have made is true to the material. Preparation and development are the key things,” Mehta stated.

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Reflecting on his own projects, Mehta highlighted the extensive development periods of the films that he has made. He revealed that Scam 1992 required over four and a half years of writing before filming commenced, while Scoop began its scripting phase even before Scam 1992 was released, taking almost three years to materialise. Additionally, he mentioned that Paatal Lok 2 underwent a five-year development process. Despite these lengthy timelines, Mehta asserted that such dedication ensures the creation of authentic and resonant narratives.

Hansal Mehta On Challenges Due To Budget Constraints

Addressing the challenges of budget constraints, Mehta recounted his experience with Shahid, a film produced on a modest budget of Rs 35 lakhs that went on to win multiple national awards. He remarked, “I never felt that budget can be a limiting factor in telling stories. Since 2010, when we moved away from celluloid films, the empowerment from the medium has allowed us to tell stories. ‘Shahid’ taught me that.”

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During the fireside chat at the event, Mehta also highlighted the diversity of contemporary audiences and the necessity for varied storytelling approaches.

Also Read: Saif Ali Khan Teams Up With Hansal Mehta For FIRST Time For A Book Adaptation; Filmmaker Hints At Next With Kareena Kapoor Khan

Akankshya Mukherjee

Akankshya Mukherjee is a dynamic and ambitious individual poised to make waves in the realm of Media and Communication. With a passion for creativity and a drive to contribute to forward-thinking organizations, Akankshya embodies adaptability and a hunger for learning. Having already garnered experience through involvement in various organizations, she has honed the skill of quickly adapting to new environments and challenges. She sees each opportunity as a chance for personal and professional growth, eagerly embracing roles in communications and content writing.