'Don't mind film premieres on large-screen mobiles'

Kolhapur: The national award winning director Gajendra Ahire, who is known for experimenting with the content in his films, feels that cinema should reach more audience, be it through theatre, television or mobile phones. Ahire's new film 'Postcard' making a lot of buzz at the second Kolhapur International Film Festival (KIFF), where it has been screened multiple times since Tuesday.The 40-year-old writer-director spoke to TOI about his idea of film making and the Oscar award race of his movie 'Touring Talkies' released earlier this year. Excerpts from the interaction:
Around 40 films in last 10 years, how did you manage it?
Ahire: I have been into film making from my college days. I know every bit of it. Working as a screenwriter for television is something that has worked for me. When you say 40 films in last 10 years, you are talking about numbers, while I see it as the measure of my work. When you are focused and clear about what you want from your team in a particular film including your actors and technicians, then making four films a year does not seem that difficult a task. In fact, this year my film 'Touring talkies' released in May, and 'Anwat', a supernatural story and 'Postcard' starring Girish Kulkarni will be released soon.
What were your experiences during this journey?
Ahire: I learned a lot during through these years. From working as a volunteer in the film festivals in Mumbai to working for full length cinema, it has been, and is, a fun journey. I guess in the initial phase, it was about what not to do, later, it was what you should do. Now, I feel after this much experience, I am actually doing what I must do.
'Touring talkies' has made a lot of buzz with its selection in Oscar's race?
Ahire: Yes, the film's script was chosen as a permanent selection to the Oscar library earlier and selected in the 86th Academy award in the best feature film category.
But there are also 290 other films that are in the contest and we might have to travel to America to promote it.
Marathi cinema's critical and commercial success, your opinion?
Ahire: What is critical and commercial success? Is it about earning more money without any content or getting critical acclaim from individuals but no audience to that particular cinema? I do not mind if my cinema reaches a wider audience and earns less money. I want my films to be enjoyed and seen by every cinema lover. I do not mind whether they watch it in theatres, or on TV or through DVD or any other means
So you won't mind your film's premier directly on TV before theatre in future?
Ahire: Not at all. I will even appreciate if they premier it on those large screen mobile devices. We have to deal with the changing times. Though watching cinema in the theatre is a true experience, it should not be made compulsory. Audience should be aware of how they can get a perfect experience of a film.
What do you think of film festivals?
Ahire: Film festivals are the best places to explore different cultures, stories and angles in a true festive mood. I like to attend various film festivals in the country. With screening of my films at various festivals, it has been always a treat for me.