Filmmaker Arnab Chatterjee, director of ‘Murderbaad’, recently revealed the significant challenges new creators face in Bollywood, stating that managers often prevent excellent scripts from reaching A-list actors.
An Outsider’s Tough Start
Arnab Chatterjee, a 25-year-old filmmaker who wrote, produced, and directed ‘Murderbaad’, shared his experiences as an industry outsider. He recounted facing disrespect and rejection early in his career.
Actors and producers often wouldn’t even meet with him, instead just hearing out the story before declining. He found that the industry has its own, often dismissive, ways of turning down new scripts and talent.
The Managerial Maze
A major hurdle Arnab highlighted is the “gatekeeping” by talent agencies and managers. He explained that these intermediaries make it nearly impossible for filmmakers to directly access A-list stars.
According to Arnab, there can be numerous managers under an agency, and even if you reach one, they might suggest different actors. This process can waste months, often without the script ever reaching the intended star.
Scripts That Never Landed
This gatekeeping directly impacted ‘Murderbaad’. Arnab mentioned approaching several actors over the past few years, only to be met with excuses like a lack of studio backing or suggestions to cast someone else.
He noted that many stars who praised ‘Murderbaad’ after its release were unaware the script had actually been offered to them. The breakdown in communication at the managerial level means opportunities are often lost.
Direct Attempts and Industry Realities
Arnab even tried a direct approach, going to an actor’s house with his script. While the actor loved the script and Arnab’s talent, they cited the lack of studio backing as a reason for not taking the project on.
This incident underscores a broader industry challenge where even good scripts and talented directors struggle without established studio connections, further complicated by the layers of management.
His Take on Star Kids
Despite the challenges, Arnab holds a positive view of some star kids. He specifically praised Ananya Panday, calling her very talented and crediting her with disproving her critics. He expressed a desire to work with her on experimental roles.
He also mentioned Ibrahim Ali Khan as someone he would consider casting. However, he believes that sometimes actors’ film choices could be better, suggesting that their surrounding teams might need a “reboot” to guide them towards stronger projects.
- Talent agencies and managers often act as barriers, preventing new scripts from reaching A-list actors.
- Filmmakers from outside the industry face significant disrespect and difficulty in getting their work considered.
- Even if a script is liked, lack of studio backing can prevent A-list actors from committing to projects.
- Some stars may be unaware that quality scripts were offered to them due to intermediary gatekeeping.
Arnab’s insights highlight a growing concern within Bollywood regarding accessibility and the complex dynamics between filmmakers, stars, and their management teams.
