Zoya Akhtar warns that leading actors often ask who the guy is, stating that they don’t want to bear the burden of leading films.
Zoya Akhtar, a renowned filmmaker, recently expressed her observation that some female actors might be hesitant to solely carry the burden of a film on their shoulders, preferring to be part of projects led by male actors. This statement reflects Akhtar’s views based on her experiences in the industry. It is important to note that opinions and preferences can vary among individuals, and these observations may not apply to all female actors.
It is an unfortunate reality that there has been a gender imbalance in the Hindi film industry, both in terms of the number of films with female protagonists and the wages paid to women in general. While there have been successful instances where women have carried films on their shoulders, it remains true that Hindi movies are largely led by male actors. In a recent conversation with Film Companion, Zoya Akhtar shared her observation that some female actors may be hesitant to take on the burden of carrying a film, perhaps due to various factors including societal expectations and the overall industry dynamics. It has also been noted that films with female actors in lead roles are often given smaller budgets compared to male-led films. These disparities highlight the need for more opportunities and equal recognition for female actors in the industry.
Director Hansal Mehta recently highlighted the success of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s film “Gangubai Kathiawadi” featuring Alia Bhatt in the lead role, acknowledging that not many filmmakers receive similar financing for female-led projects. In response, Zoya Akhtar shared her observations that sometimes even actresses themselves may be hesitant to take on the burden of carrying a film. She stated that it is common for female actors to inquire about the male co-star before committing to a project. This suggests a complex interplay of factors like societal expectations and industry dynamics that influence the decision-making process of both filmmakers and actors when it comes to female-led films.
Zoya Akhtar has expressed her observation that some female actors may feel apprehensive about carrying a film on their own shoulders and would prefer to be a part of a big hero-led film. She suggested that, at times, actresses themselves may not be interested in taking on the lead roles in films. It is important to note that each actor has their own preferences, and these might vary based on factors such as personal career strategies, the nature of the roles they are offered, and the overall industry dynamics. The decision-making process regarding film choices can be influenced by various factors, and it is essential to have open conversations and create equal opportunities for all in the film industry.
