Dragon producer Archana Kalpathi agrees that OTTs insisting on release dates is a positive development, here's why

Producer Archana Kalpathi of AGS Entertainment made some strong statements at a latest roundtable, and talked about certain discipline that filmmakers need to have with respect to completing a film. Having backed films like The GOAT, Dragon and more, Archana also said it is a sign of relief that it is good that OTT platforms are now insisting on release dates. On the other hand, she also said that a 9-5 shift is not possible in cinema.

Archana Kalpathi: I will not work with a director who has no clarity

Archana Kalpathi who gave this year’s successful 100-crore film Dragon, took part at the latest roundtable organised by The Hollywood Reporter India, in which she spoke about completing a film on a said time, and the working hours. The topic on the working hours made headlines this year after Deepika Padukone insisted on 8-hour work shift, which eventually made her walk out of films like Spirit and Kalki 2898 AD 2.

When the topic was broached upon at the roundtable, Archana pitched in with the need for pre-production discipline. "I think pre-production and planning really helps. Before we go to shoot, we have shot breakdowns. Sometimes there might be overlaps. But otherwise not more than 10% of production budget can be go, in terms of number of shoot days. By biggest worry is that then you lack clarity. I will not work with a director who has no clarity. I don't want you coming there and then deciding this is the story I want to make. Because movie is a serious thing and a lot of livelihoods depend on it. As a production house, we need to honour salary and payments on time.”

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‘I am happy that OTT platforms are insisting on the release dates’

Archana Kalpathi also brought in the perspective of OTT platforms playing a part in fixing a release date for films, which means the makers have to adhere to certain deadlines.

"I am happy that OTT platforms are insisting on the release dates, because that discipline needs to be there. Everyone has to make a money for the film to make money. Technicians, theatres, distributors, platforms. Only then it builds and works for everyone. 9-5 is not possible in cinema, because we have all signed into this crazy world and there are sunrise and sunset call-sheets. But we should not waste anyone's time,” she said.

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Archana also added that for small films, they can afford to take offs on Sundays and observed holidays, but not possible for big films which run on a higher interest rate. "Everything is numbers for me, passion is little less.”

FAQs

Q. What is Kalpathi Archana known for?

A. Archana Kalpathi is known for producing films like The GOAT, Love Today, and Dragon.

Q. Who is the owner of AGS films?

A. AGS Entertainment is owned by Kalpathi family who produce and distribute films besides running a chain of theatres.

Q. Who is Kalpathi Aghoram?

A. Kalpathi Aghoram is a film producer and distributor.