'Mrs.': Director reveals why Sanya Malhotra's film skipped theatrical release
What's the story
The film Mrs., starring Sanya Malhotra, has been released on ZEE5 to a storm of positive reviews.
Directed by Arati Kadav, the movie delves into the rampant sexism in Indian homes.
In a recent interview with SCREEN, Kadav opened up about what drove her to work on Mrs. and why the team opted for a direct-to-digital release.
Release strategy
Kadav on 'Mrs.' digital premiere and potential theatrical release
About the digital premiere, Kadav said, "It wasn't a collective decision. It was the journey of the film itself. Initially, even I was also slightly keen about a theatrical release."
"What happened is that even people are not sure how theatrical will play out, it's a risky proposition."
"We felt slightly safer putting it on OTT. I hope that the film does so well that it comes out in theatres, maybe on Women's Day...as a limited release."
Director's insight
'After a point, it felt more like activism...'
Kadav said, "Sanya was still considering the film but was largely on board. We both wanted to do this for our families, people around us, and society."
"After a point, it felt more like activism than a film that would help my career or not."
She added that Harman Baweja was adamant that the film should reach audiences after watching the original version, The Great Indian Kitchen.
Societal impact
Kadav's hopes for societal change through 'Mrs.'
Kadav hoped Mrs. could help bring about a change in society.
She said, "Even though you hope that people will watch the film and change, we are also realists."
"We know that mindset change doesn't happen overnight because of one work. But, all this adds to a collective conversation that can bring about that change. It's like each drop is important to make an ocean."
Credit controversy
Kadav addressed omission of technician credits in 'Mrs.' trailer
Recently, Mrs. drew flak for not mentioning technician credits in its trailer and description on YouTube.
On this, Kadav said, "I think there were too many parties involved... It was an unintentional error."
"Good that it was called out because it was immediately corrected. Gradually, it has become a norm that technicians are not credited in trailers, etc., but it should be done. I am all in support of that."