Stories That Travel: A Global Perspective on Cinema
The power of storytelling transcends borders, languages, and cultures. This universal language connects people from diverse backgrounds, allowing them to share experiences and emotions. At the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), a panel discussion titled “Stories That Travel” explored this very theme. Held at the Kala Academy in Panaji on November 23, 2024, the discussion featured a distinguished group of panelists, including writers, filmmakers, and actors from various countries. They shared insights on how stories can resonate with audiences worldwide, emphasizing the importance of cultural nuances and universal themes in cinema.
The Essence of Storytelling
Bobby Bedi, the moderator of the panel, opened the discussion by highlighting India’s rich cinematic history. He pointed out that while India boasts a robust film industry, many filmmakers often focus on the diaspora, neglecting the broader international audience. This limited perspective can hinder the global appeal of Indian films. The panelists agreed that storytelling is an art that requires a deep understanding of cultural contexts.
Farrukh Dhondy, a prominent writer and playwright, elaborated on the historical significance of storytelling. He noted that every culture has its own mythologies, which serve as the foundation for stories. These mythologies reflect the ethics and values of a culture. However, not all stories resonate equally across different regions. For instance, Dhondy mentioned that Raj Kapoor’s films about Indian peasantry found a receptive audience in the Soviet Union, while Satyajit Ray’s works connected more with Western audiences. This highlights the need for filmmakers to consider the cultural backdrop of their narratives to enhance their global reach.
The Role of Universal Themes
The panelists emphasized the importance of universal themes in storytelling. Lucy Walker, an acclaimed documentary filmmaker, shared her belief that filmmakers should focus on subjects they genuinely care about. She travels the world to create films that showcase local people and their stories, rather than merely acting as a tourist. This approach allows her to connect with audiences on a deeper level.
Vani Tripathi Tikoo echoed this sentiment, stating that India has a long tradition of storytelling, encapsulated in the phrase “Vasudaiva Kudumbakam,” which means “the world is one family.” She argued that stories from outside India often find their way into Indian narratives, demonstrating the interconnectedness of global storytelling. Tikoo asserted that stories with universal elements and cultural connections are more likely to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Cultural Nuances and Global Appeal
Tannistha Chatterjee, a celebrated actor, brought a performer’s perspective to the discussion. She pointed out that Indian audiences tend to prefer television over cinema, which influences the way stories are told. Indian films often feature loud, celebratory narratives that reflect the culture, while Western films tend to express emotions more subtly. This difference in cultural expression can affect how stories are received by international audiences.
Chatterjee emphasized that while emotions are universal, local themes can enhance a story’s appeal. She encouraged filmmakers to focus on telling authentic local stories, as these narratives often carry a universal emotional resonance. Bobby Bedi highlighted successful films like “Avatar,” which, despite being rooted in local culture, achieved global acclaim. The panel concluded that stories grounded in local experiences, yet rich in universal emotions, have the potential to captivate audiences around the world. The panel discussion at IFFI underscored the significance of storytelling in cinema. It highlighted how stories can bridge cultural divides and foster connections among people from different backgrounds. By focusing on local narratives with universal themes, filmmakers can create works that resonate with global audiences. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the art of storytelling remains a powerful tool for understanding and empathy. The insights shared by the panelists serve as a reminder that while cultures may differ, the human experience is fundamentally shared.
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