When OTTs Act Like CBFC: Filmmakers Losing Hope!

When OTT platforms entered the Indian market, they promised to boost independent films, emerging artists, and regional cinema. However, their arrival has turned out to be yet another form of censorship.

In a recent interview, director Nandita Das spoke about how films today face three layers of censorship. One by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), another through self-censorship, and the last by self-proclaimed custodians of culture.

Adding to this, actor Shahana Goswami pointed out that OTT platforms have now introduced a fourth layer- a fear-based censorship driven by the anticipation of backlash.

In recent times, the gap between box office and OTT has started to shrink.

While OTT has certainly helped industries like Malayalam cinema gain pan-Indian recognition, filmmaker Jeo Baby revealed that out of the 80-odd films made in that industry annually, only 4 to 5 make it to OTT platforms.

Despite the perception that the industry is thriving, the reality is different.

Many filmmakers are left with no option but to self-finance and self-sell their films.

As a result, the content on these platforms tends to follow the same “safe” formula. Filmmakers are forced to avoid risk, both financially and creatively, just to avoid rejection or controversy.

Because OTT platforms have such a wide and diverse audience, there’s a higher chance of someone taking offence.

To avoid backlash, platforms prefer to greenlight safe films, films that don’t challenge the audience, films that don’t provoke critical thought, and films that won’t attract controversy.

The result? A slow erosion of artistic integrity, creative freedom, and meaningful storytelling. The filmmakers don’t get a chance to tell stories they actually want to, and the audience suffers as well.