'Don't think my gender is in minority, we are 50%,' says Zoya Akhtar
Zoya Akhtar at BT MPW 2023
Zoya Akhtar, acclaimed film director, writer, and producer, during an interview with Kalli Purie, Vice Chairperson at the India Today Group, at the BT MPW 2023 event, expressed mixed emotions following the premiere of her latest production, The Archies, on Netflix. She shared a sense of relief but acknowledged the anxiety about audience reception.
Navigating gender roles in filmmaking
Zoya Akhtar emphasised individual traits over gender distinctions in the creative field. She discussed her belief that leadership qualities are not gender-specific and highlighted the diversity in skills within both genders. Akhtar said, "I don't look at it like women are better in this or men are better in that. I think it's a very individual thing."
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zoya 1
Not a minority
Zoya Akhtar also highlighted that she doesn’t feel that women are in a minority anymore. She said, “I don't think my gender is a minority. I don't feel like I'm a minority in my gender. We are 50%. How is that a minority?”
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Zoya 2
Challenges in debuting in Bollywood
Reflecting on her early career, Zoya Akhtar revealed the challenges she faced, attributing the delay in her debut film, Luck by Chance, to its unconventional nature and the evolving landscape of Indian cinema. She said, "It wasn't a formulaic film and I think at that time it was very nascent. The multiplex business was very nascent. The audience palette hadn't changed. It wasn't a regular movie."
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Zoya 3
Overcoming rejection
Zoya Akhtar advised aspiring filmmakers to embrace rejection, acknowledging its inevitability in the industry. She emphasised the importance of resilience and perseverance in overcoming setbacks. "You are going to face rejection. You could be a superstar for ten years, and then for the next five years, your films are rejected. At some stage in this business, you are rejected. So, it needs to be water off a duck's back or you are not surviving. You can stay home, you can cry, you can do your self-help, you can do meditate. You do whatever it takes, but get up. Get back on the horse. There is no other way."
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Zoya 4
Imposter syndrome in the film industry
Addressing imposter syndrome, Zoya Akhtar admitted experiencing self-doubt even after successful projects. She stressed the need to talk through such feelings, seeking validation from trusted colleagues. Zoya Akhtar credited her family upbringing for instilling resilience and kindness.
Balancing multiple projects
Discussing her ability to manage multiple projects, Zoya Akhtar emphasised on the importance of time management and discipline. She shared her approach of dedicating specific time blocks to different aspects of her work. Akhtar said, "My advice for juggling is, like, if I'm writing, I'll spend three hours on this and I'll go on to the next thing for 2-3 hours, and I'll do that. It's not ideal, but if you have to do it, then be open and do it.
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Zoya 5
Gender perspective in filmmaking
Zoya Akhtar acknowledged her unique lens as an urban Indian woman but emphasised her commitment to telling diverse stories that transcend gender. She discussed how her films, like Gully Boy, capture varied perspectives.
Leadership approach on film sets
Zoya Akhtar revealed her leadership style on film sets, emphasising the importance of kindness and effective communication. She highlighted the collaborative nature of filmmaking and the need to share victories and responsibilities with the team. Zoya Akhtar shared her preference for a peaceful working environment on film sets, explaining how clear communication, preparation, and a positive atmosphere contribute to maintaining calm amidst the high-stress nature of filmmaking.
Working with newcomers in The Archies
Zoya Akhtar explained her decision to cast newcomers in The Archies, citing the iconic nature of Archie Comics characters and the desire to present a fresh perspective. She highlighted the importance of the story dictating the cast rather than the reverse.
Success mantras for balance
At the end of the interview, Zoya Akhtar downplayed claims of perfect balance between critical acclaim and commercial viability, attributing success to a genuine connection with the subject matter. She advised staying true to one's vision, being open to collaboration, and embracing both head and heart in the creative process.
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