Mumbai, November 15 (NationPress) - Filmmakers Aarti Kadav, Rohan Kanawade, Kanu Behl, Alankrita Shrivastava, and Nidhi Saxena recently shared their thoughts during a session at the ongoing Yellowstone International Film Festival in Mumbai.

During the discussion moderated by filmmaker and screenwriter Hardik Mehta, the panelists explored the challenges they face and what drives them to create films that resonate with contemporary audiences. Aarti Kadav revealed the intricate emotional layers involved in casting decisions, stating, “Finding Sanya Malhotra’s husband in Mrs was incredibly challenging. That single choice influences the entire narrative.” She further elaborated, “The producers wanted a well-known star. However, in my view, having a star would detract from the film’s essence. I even convinced an actor’s son not to take the role, explaining that it would be detrimental to his career to start with such a character... It required significant persuasion to cast Nishant Dahiya.”

The filmmakers also discussed the struggle to imbue emotional depth in a saturated content landscape. They delved into the balance between personal vulnerability and audience expectations, as well as the shifting dynamics of authenticity in storytelling. The festival also featured an acting workshop led by acclaimed coach Anne Moore from Grey’s Anatomy, who introduced participants to the Stanford Meisner Technique, making it a highlight for aspiring actors seeking practical insights.

For those unfamiliar, Mrs, featuring Sanya Malhotra, debuted on February 7, 2025, on an OTT platform. The film is an adaptation of the Malayalam blockbuster The Great Indian Kitchen, released in 2021.

The narrative follows Richa, portrayed by Sanya Malhotra, a newly married dancer who enters a strictly patriarchal household. As she navigates her new life, she gradually becomes aware of the domestic responsibilities and invisible labor expected of her, ultimately confronting the prevailing patriarchal system in society.

–IANS