By S Shankar Responds to Anurag Kashyap’s Concern Over ‘Game Changer’ Editing Style: ‘It’s Shocking Because…’
Director S Shankar has responded to recent remarks made by Anurag Kashyap, who expressed concerns over Shankar’s filmmaking philosophy. Kashyap, in an earlier discussion, had commented that Shankar’s approach seemed to cater to the Instagram Reels generation, raising questions about its potential implications for cinema. Speaking to the press in Chennai, Shankar clarified that his statements were misunderstood and elaborated on his views regarding modern filmmaking.
Shankar, while addressing the media, reiterated that he never intended to align his creative process with the sensibilities of short-form content. His earlier comments, he explained, were meant to underscore the significance of maintaining engagement throughout a film. “I didn’t know Anurag Kashyap had made such remarks, and frankly, I find it surprising. My statements were made in a sincere effort to emphasize how important it is for films to hold the viewer’s attention in today’s world of distractions,” Shankar said.
According to him, contemporary audiences are vastly different from those of previous decades. Their behavioral patterns, influenced heavily by an abundance of digital content, demand that filmmakers adapt to these shifts. With ever-decreasing attention spans, people are prone to losing focus, often turning to their phones or social media when a film fails to intrigue them quickly. To combat this challenge, Shankar believes in creating content that captivates from the start, ensuring that the narrative never loses its grip.
The director credited Ruben, the editor of his upcoming film Game Changer, for ensuring that the movie remains both electrifying and immersive. “Ruben’s meticulous approach to editing has been instrumental in maintaining a seamless flow. It’s about keeping the audience on edge, making every scene count,” Shankar remarked.
This ideology, however, didn’t sit well with Anurag Kashyap. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter India, Kashyap voiced his apprehensions, noting that Shankar’s statements appeared to lean too heavily on catering to audience preferences. Kashyap warned of the dangers of filmmakers compromising their artistic autonomy in pursuit of popular appeal. He described such an approach as a slippery slope, one that could potentially erode the essence of cinema as a form of artistic expression.
Kashyap, known for his bold, experimental storytelling, elaborated on how films have traditionally been an arena for filmmakers to convey personal visions. Tailoring a narrative exclusively for audiences, he argued, risks diluting its artistic depth. Nevertheless, Kashyap admitted his interest in watching Game Changer to better understand Shankar’s perspective.
Game Changer, headlined by Ram Charan and Kiara Advani, is slated for release on January 10. The film is highly anticipated and has already sparked significant discussions in cinematic circles. Described as a fast-paced political action thriller, Game Changer aims to break boundaries in the Indian film industry. Shankar shared insights into his creative approach to the film, stating that every element of its production, from the storyline to the editing, has been crafted to deliver a memorable experience.
The debate around audience preferences versus creative autonomy is not a new one, but it remains relevant in an era dominated by digital platforms. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have undeniably reshaped how people consume content. Short-form videos and reels have conditioned audiences to expect instant gratification, challenging filmmakers to find new ways to engage. For Shankar, this represents an opportunity rather than a limitation.
“Cinema has always evolved alongside audiences,” Shankar noted during the interaction. “Back in the day, stories unfolded slowly, but today we’re in a different era. Keeping audiences engaged isn’t about pandering to trends—it’s about adapting to the way people experience storytelling. It’s about respecting their time without losing the depth of the narrative.”
This delicate balancing act has positioned Shankar as one of the most successful filmmakers in the Indian film industry. While his approach may draw criticism from purists like Kashyap, it undeniably resonates with the masses. Shankar’s work consistently blends spectacle with substance, pushing boundaries and appealing to audiences across demographics.
Game Changer reflects his philosophy, offering a narrative that promises both action-packed sequences and emotional depth. The collaboration between Ram Charan and Kiara Advani adds star power to the project, amplifying its appeal across different regions and languages.
For now, the discussion sparked by Shankar and Kashyap highlights the ongoing evolution of cinema in the face of a rapidly changing audience landscape. While both filmmakers have their distinct philosophies, the debate itself underscores the richness and diversity of Indian cinema.
Game Changer’s release on January 10 will not only test Shankar’s ability to connect with a modern audience but also showcase whether his methods can coexist with the artistic values upheld by filmmakers like Anurag Kashyap.
