In search of a recipe for resurrection of films

That the middle class -let alone the upper class - has long stopped visiting cinema halls is a common complaint. Many cites the ever presence of the idiot's box, TV that is, as the reason for the reluctance of people to frequent a cinema hall. But this is only partly true. Notwithstanding the fact that there are innumerable channels to choose from and there are quite a few channels showing films round the clock, viewers are still eager to see their favourite films on the large screen instead on the small one. If the burgeoning film industry in India can achieve continuous success with the commercial films spinning increasingly fat amount of money, why should it be any different in Bangladesh?

One answer to the question is that film as a medium of entertainment has earned so much notoriety, thanks to the huddling of below mediocre filmmakers and producers, that its resurrection now seems to be a next to nothing venture. On Thursday, the 3rd day of April observed as the National Film Day, all concerned about the future of the country's film industry voiced the same lamentation. The closure of cinema halls all across the country cannot be stopped if the situation continues. Films of alternative genres or what are commonly termed art films have never been the life-blood of this entertainment industry, although they set the standard for this audio-visual art works. Actually, it is the commercial films which with their broad appeal to the mass people have a strong source of income on the big money invested for the purpose.

It is exactly in this area, the weakness of intellectual capability of filmmakers have been woefully exposed. Declared as an industry, it is yet to receive the benefits other industries derive from various areas such as loan sanction on simple terms and conditions, import of machines, instruments and raw materials with duty rebate, subsidized power and technological support. There is no guarantee that if loans are easily available and other facilities are present the situation will change overnight. But at least this will create opportunities for talented but financially insolvent film directors to try their hands at some new ventures. There indeed lies the mystery of creative success. The more passionate and creative minds can be given the incentive the more the possibility of amazing creations.

True, geniuses cannot be created; they are born. But then there is a need for a long tradition which undergoes evolution through a continuous process to develop into a vibrant system. Civilisations have seen celebration of human spirit at its most optimum at certain point of time. That is known as renaissance. Who says Bangladesh cannot experience one such renaissance in the country's film industry. But to make it happen there is a need for a wholehearted endeavour involving all associated with this industry. Institutional support combined with commitment of filmmakers can indeed bring about a notable change in the industry.

A film city is going to be built on 105-acre land at a place called Kabirpur near Dhaka city. About the range and scope of which are yet to be known. But what its name suggests makes one believe that all kinds of filmmaking facilities will be available there. That is technological aspects will be adequately taken care of. But unless the issue of grooming up filmmakers is attended, this will not be of much help. If a film institute after the model of Pune Film Institute is set up, it will serve the purpose. Both academic and practical issues will be taught by masters of this art -preferably of international stature. This is more important than the most advanced studios and filmmaking instruments which can only enhance the visual quality but not the content and theme of a story on which a film is based. So, a film institute should be the first priority.