'It's about power': Dibakar Banerjee discusses 'LSD 2's distribution challenges
What's the story
Acclaimed filmmaker Dibakar Banerjee has highlighted the difficulties he faces in securing suitable distribution for his films.
His latest project, Love Sex Aur Dhoka 2 (LSD 2)—which was released head-to-head with Vidya Balan's Do Aur Do Pyaar on Friday—exemplifies these struggles.
Despite significant buzz, LSD 2's opening day earnings were a disappointing ₹15 lakh.
Banerjee attributes this to the industry's power dynamics and competition for cinema screens.
Context
Why does this story matter?
LSD 2 is the long-awaited sequel to the 2010 namesake film, backed by Ektaa Kapoor.
The sequel explores three interconnected stories set in the digital age, emphasizing the consequences of love and betrayal.
Compared to its 2010 predecessor—which garnered positive reviews and commercial success—LSD 2 has a lot to live up to.
After its theatrical run, it will be available to stream on Netflix.
Power struggles
Banerjee expounded on power dynamics
During an interview with Indian Express, Banerjee explained the role of power dynamics in film distribution, stating, "Sometimes, a film has that transgressive quality which transgresses its immediate audience by some quirk of fate, destiny, and real situation."
"LSD 2 has released today, there is another film that has released today, and the ground reality is that about two weeks ago another huge film released, that unfortunately didn't do well for itself," said the director.
Industry trends
'It is also about power...'
Further, Banerjee expressed his disapproval of Bollywood's tendency to uphold mediocrity.
"But it had booked many cinema theatres in advance. It had spent that money, so now those screens can't be used, or one is still figuring out what to do with those screens, someone must be making furious calls in closed rooms in terms of adjusting monies."
"So there are only that many screens left for LSD and other films...So, it is also about power. Who is more powerful?"
Industry leaders
Banerjee praised Kapoor and Khan for defying trends
Banerjee acknowledged the efforts of producer Kapoor and actor Aamir Khan in ensuring their films receive deserved recognition.
He recounted being advised that his films are better suited for weekday releases with minimal marketing reliance, relying instead on word-of-mouth promotion.
Despite skepticism, Banerjee noted that such predictions sometimes prove accurate, as seen with his past experiences.
Additionally, he referenced his unfortunate encounter with Tees, an abandoned Netflix film that was completed but ultimately shelved by the streaming platform.