In a never-before seen interaction, join THR India editor Anupama Chopra as she sits down with five visionary directors from across India for an insightful roundtable discussion on the first episode of Off Script with THR, India. This star-studded panel features the incomparable Vetri Maaran and Pa. Ranjith from Tamil cinema, game-changers Karan Johar and Zoya Akhtar from Hindi cinema, and the multifaceted Mahesh Narayanan from Malayalam cinema.

In this engaging conversation, the directors delve into the current state of Indian cinema, discussing everything from the challenges of the theatrical business to the evolving landscape of streaming platforms. They share personal insights into their creative processes, favorite aspects of filmmaking, and the unique challenges they face in their respective industries.

The discussion touches on crucial topics such as the Hema committee report, representation of caste violence in cinema, the willingness of big stars to take on challenging roles and the importance of maintaining artistic integrity while navigating commercial pressures. This roundtable offers a rare glimpse into the minds of some of India's most influential filmmakers, showcasing their passion, creativity, and dedication to their craft.

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00:00 Introduction by Anupama Chopra
00:58 Directors introduced
01:40 Discussion on Justice Hema Committee report
02:31 Mahesh on systemic change
04:24 Zoya on male entitlement
05:52 Karan on patriarchy and upbringing
08:04 Vetri Maaran on supporting women
10:08 Pa. Ranjith on discrimination
14:47 Zoya on enabling work opportunities
16:26 Current film industry landscape
17:05 Vetri Maaran on OTT impact
22:14 Karan on Hindi cinema challenges
29:16 Challenges making diverse films
33:31 Karan on empowering new actors
36:16 Affordability post-pandemic
44:16 Hindi actors being experimental
53:00 Karan on not holding back
56:15 Filmmakers on favorite processes
58:22 Karan on writing and favorites
01:00:23 Zoya on process and dislikes
1:04:00 Vetri Maaran's unique approach
01:07:08 Pa. Ranjith on writing passion
1:09:06 Directors' favorite recent films
1:13:33 Zoya asks Vetri Maaran about process
1:21:07 Conclusion and closing remarks

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