Nithya Menen says filmmakers have less creative freedom today: ‘It’s become backwards’

Actress Nithya Menen believes filmmakers today have less creative freedom and it has become easier to make certain kinds of films as audiences have become more sensitive to content.

Speaking at the 16th edition of the India Film Project (IFP), Menen shared her views on the changing landscape of cinema during a conversation with film journalist Vishal Menon at Mehboob Studios here.

The session, titled Becoming Kanmani, revisited the enduring appeal of her 2015 romantic drama OK Kanmani, directed by Mani Ratnam, and explored the writing, performances and music that shaped its characters and relationships.

“I don’t think filmmakers are as free today,” Menen said, reflecting on the challenges facing creative professionals.

“It’s become backwards, like it's easier to do certain kind of films; this is really offending me. You know, like everybody gets offended, I think people think a lot more; they like use their intellect a lot more today, you know?” she added.

The actress also challenged the notion that on-screen chemistry depends solely on the lead pair, stressing that the writing is central to making relationships believable.

“Chemistry is not that. Chemistry is in the writing, first and foremost chemistry is in the writing,” she said, explaining how writing, direction, performances and music work together to create a compelling cinematic experience.

Menen recalled being surprised by the chemistry between her and co-star Dulquer Salmaan when she watched the film’s premiere, given their friendly relationship off screen.

“Dude, what is this? Because Dulquer and me had a sort of very buddy-like relationship,” she said.

Menen also spoke about the pressure women face while navigating relationships and professional ambitions. “Today, I feel I want both. I can have both, and it's okay. It's not an either-or; it's not black or white, right? It can be worked out. Unfortunately, it is a thought process, especially for a woman, because it's biological and everything. That's sadly the case; it's something we have to live with.”

IFP Season 16 is being held at Mehboob Studios, bringing together creators from different disciplines to discuss their work and the evolving creative landscape.

IFP began in 2011 as a 50-hour filmmaking challenge and has since grown into a multidisciplinary creative platform connecting artists and creators from across the world.