Shekhar Kapur Criticizes OTT Platform for Editing 'Bandit Queen' Without Consent

The filmmaker condemned Amazon Prime for altering his 1994 film without permission, reigniting debates on artistic integrity and double standards in filmmaking.

• Shekhar Kapur revealed that the OTT version of his 1994 film 'Bandit Queen' on Amazon Prime was heavily edited without his consent, calling it 'unrecognizable.'
• The filmmaker questioned whether similar liberties would be taken with Western directors like Christopher Nolan, highlighting perceived double standards in the industry.
• The original 'Bandit Queen' faced controversy in India for its graphic depiction of sexual violence and portrayal of Phoolan Devi's life, leading to a temporary ban.
• Prominent filmmakers, including Kunal Kohli and Hansal Mehta, expressed support for Kapur, criticizing the lack of respect for Indian directors' creative control.
• The film, based on the life of Phoolan Devi, received international acclaim at Cannes but faced backlash and legal challenges domestically.

3 Articles

Free Press Journal Hindustan Times Hindustan Times