Has Vidhu Vinod Chopra Criticized Social Media Influencers?
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Synopsis
Vidhu Vinod Chopra criticizes the phenomenon of social media influencers and their impact on cinema, calling for a return to authentic storytelling. He shares insights from his masterclass at IFFI, where he discusses the restoration of his classic film. Join the conversation about the future of film in the age of social media stardom.
Key Takeaways
- Critique of social media influencers and their effect on cinema.
- Chopra's call for authentic storytelling over digital fame.
- Insights from the 8K restoration of his classic film.
- Over 240 films showcased at the 56th IFFI.
- Discussion on the future of cinema in the context of social media.
Mumbai, Nov 23 (NationPress) Filmmaker and producer Vidhu Vinod Chopra launched a strong critique against social media influencers and the entire ecosystem of social media fame, highlighting the involvement of brands in this phenomenon.
During the 56th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) held in Goa, Chopra expressed his concerns about the escalating culture of social media celebrity, which he believes has negatively impacted the film industry.
He stated, “What term should I use? These are a*. They appear online, posing in specific ways. One has 5 million followers, another has 10 million, and yet another boasts 20 million.”
Chopra continued, “The social media influencer believes they are a legend. Brands approach them, saying, ‘Please market our product’. The influencer poses again, saying, ‘Hey, purchase this tiffin. Buy whatever’. What the f* is happening? You must decide whether you want to be that or genuinely pursue happiness and joy.”
At the IFFI, Chopra also conducted a masterclass on filmmaking, discussing the 8K restoration of his classic film 1942: A Love Story and sharing a behind-the-scenes story about his then-assistant Sanjay Leela Bhansali, who scattered breadcrumbs on a mountain to attract birds for a song sequence.
He emphasized that contemporary cinema often values style over substance and noted that his films portray the social realities of their respective eras.
The ongoing 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa is a vibrant gathering of cinematic art, culture, and technology, showcasing over 240 films from 81 countries, including 13 world premieres along with international and Asian debuts. The festival commenced with a grand parade along the Mandovi river, marking a departure from tradition.
Point of View
It's clear that Vidhu Vinod Chopra's critique of social media influencers raises significant questions about the authenticity and depth of contemporary storytelling in cinema. His concerns reflect a broader sentiment within the industry that values genuine artistic expression over fleeting digital fame, making this conversation essential as we navigate the evolving landscape of film.
NationPress
23/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Vidhu Vinod Chopra say about social media influencers?
Chopra criticized social media influencers, referring to them as 'a*******' and questioned their impact on the film industry and storytelling.
Where did Chopra make these remarks?
He made these comments during a masterclass at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa.
What is the focus of Chopra's films?
Chopra emphasizes that his films reflect the social realities of their time, prioritizing storytelling over mere presentation.
How many films are being showcased at the IFFI?
The IFFI is featuring over 240 films from 81 countries, including several premieres.
What is the significance of the IFFI?
The International Film Festival of India serves as a major platform for cinematic art, culture, and technology.
