At the ongoing MAMI Mumbai Film Festival 2024, actor and producer Sohum Shah, known for his work in the critically acclaimed film Tumbbad, delved into the nuances of film production and the significance of a producer’s passion in shaping meaningful cinema. During a panel discussion with filmmakers Aditya Sarpotdar, Chidambaram, and Gayatri Gulati, Shah emphasized how the heart of a producer often plays a crucial role in determining the success of compact, powerful stories.
Producer’s focus: A matter of the heart
Shah’s comments during the discussion highlighted the importance of emotional investment in filmmaking, a quality he believes is essential for any producer. He shared his thoughts on how films from the past were crafted with love, driven not by commercial strategies but by a genuine passion for the art form. “A producer’s job is done from the heart. If you do it only with your mind, it becomes difficult,” said Shah. He explained that films that resonate with audiences often emerge from a deep connection between the producer and the project, rather than merely focusing on financial gains or strategic planning.
Inspiration from legendary producers
Shah also reflected on the approach of iconic producers from the 80s and 90s, such as Yash Johar, Yash Chopra, and Raj Kapoor, whose work has become a benchmark in Indian cinema. These producers, according to Shah, were hands-on with every aspect of their films, making decisions based on instinct and passion. “In the 80s and 90s, producers like Yash Johar, Yash Chopra, and Raj Kapoor handled everything individually, without any corporate structure. It was a passion; they would decide to make a film, and if something did not seem right, they would not hesitate to reshoot,” he remarked.
Shah believes that this unyielding dedication to the craft, coupled with the willingness to adapt and reshoot if needed, is what makes their work stand out even today. He praised their ability to blend creative vision with an instinctive understanding of what the audience wanted, a balance that he feels is harder to achieve in today’s more corporatized film industry.
Tumbbad‘s re-release: A testament to passionate filmmaking
Sohum Shah’s own journey as a producer is best exemplified by his work on Tumbbad, a film that has garnered praise for its unique narrative and visual grandeur. Originally released in 2018, Tumbbad was recently re-released in theaters on September 13, allowing a new generation of audiences to witness its blend of horror, fantasy, and Indian folklore. The re-release has once again drawn attention to the film’s rich thematic content and striking cinematography, solidifying its status as a cult classic.
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Directed by Rahi Anil Barve, Tumbbad is set in the early 20th century in a small village in Maharashtra, where the protagonist Vinayak Rao, played by Shah, becomes obsessed with a hidden treasure linked to the mythical goddess Hastar. The film explores dark themes such as greed, ambition, and the burdens of family legacy, all woven into the fabric of Indian mythology. Its striking visuals and atmospheric storytelling make it a standout in Indian cinema, and Shah’s involvement in both acting and producing highlights his dedication to bringing this distinct story to life.
Crafting artful cinema in the modern Era
During the MAMI panel, Shah emphasized that while filmmaking has evolved into a more structured and corporatized industry, the essence of what makes a film impactful remains the same—passion and heart. He discussed how artful storytelling can transcend the challenges of modern filmmaking, even in a landscape where commercial viability often takes precedence over creative risks.
Sohum Shah’s reflections at MAMI 2024 serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining the human element in film production. He believes that producers should not lose sight of the emotional and artistic aspects of filmmaking, as these are what truly connect with audiences. Shah’s own experiences with Tumbbad are proof that when a producer and filmmaker are deeply invested in their project, the result can be a timeless piece of cinema that resonates with audiences far beyond its initial release.
As Tumbbad continues to gain recognition with its re-release and Shah’s words inspire a new generation of filmmakers, the future of Indian cinema seems poised to strike a balance between heart and strategy, staying true to its roots while evolving with the times.
