Before the aggressive onset of the media, festivals and theatre united Indian communities. But as times flew by, television was trending. People would gather in a room, collectively responding to the goings-on of the delivered content. In the Internet era, however, the screen has assumed a more personal space; and one can choose to view just what they would like!
Growing popularity
Webisodes started as a mere experiment. It swiftly went viral in the youth circles, rapidly luring audiences from various other age groups. In spite of it being a very urban concept, it is fast penetrating the rural arena as well. Let us not forget that a webisode can be accessed through laptops, tablets, and other mobile devices. “All thanks to the 4G revolution and the unending amount of data that’s provided by mobile service providers, we web stars receive instant gratification as soon as the programme is streamed online. YouTube is indeed a very prolific medium to launch a web-channel,” states Suhail Nayyar, protagonist of ‘Life Sahi Hai’ fame.
Futuristic view
According to protagonist Aru K Verma, “Webisodes are bridging gaps between television and cinema. It has positively impacted the film industry encouraging filmmakers to get inventive in more than ways. It also eggs on television to look beyond the mundane, and explore interesting plots. What is interesting is, sarcasm can be screened with a certain honesty. And if the plot is truthfully portrayed it will be well received by the growing audiences.”
Writer’s take
Webisodes have taken a quantum leap in the internet era. According to celebrated screenplay writer Mohinder Pratap Singh, “Television proved rather binding for a writer. As a writer, I have typically explored the nuances of a love triangle. Now, I seek the opportunity of delving into deeper issues to reconnoitre, as the internet is not dominated by the whims of censorship. It has certainly opened avenues for writers. Today, I am able to pick on subjects that genuinely touch my heart. Surprisingly, there’s a growing number of viewers who would like to watch the content.” Since there are no censors,
it is easier to nurture a plot with enriching layers that cultivate a certain impact on the viewer.
Actor’s belief
According to actor Saurabh Goyal of ‘Rangbaz’ fame, we learn, “New age actors are open to taking up challenges when it comes to a particular role. It’s a great time for actors as we can dabble with a variety of roles. The platform serves as a perfect opportunity to perform and prove our mettle.” What is best is webisodes, unlike television series, go on floor as soon as the script is approved, and production concludes anytime between three to six months.
Women too have better parts to play on web. Rashi Mal of Time Out fame adds, “I think the one thing which is not specific to web series but all mediums, is the fact that female protagonists seem to have a smaller career span as compared to men. Ageism for women still remains unresolved, whereas men go on to play leading parts well into their 50s. This is beginning to change now, albeit very slowly.”
The commercials
According to Suhail Nayyar the commercials are juicer as compared to television. “In the beginning, we didn’t earn that well, however as the medium evolved, the figures climbed. Today, depending on the role and on the medium on which the webisode will stream, our figures are decided. Big production houses are armed with foresight and are now taking a leap into producing web series.”
Fancying fame
As actors on web series, fame hasn’t come that easily. However, if a certain webisode takes off, one receives an overwhelming response on social media. According to Saurabh Goyal, “There is still a very limited audience to web series, but yes now because of social media everyone is approachable. So direct messages on FB and Instagram is overwhelming. But I feel web series audience needs to grow for the kind of fame and career that films can provide for an actor.”
Rashi Mal also adds, “I think the web audience is more exposed to content from all around the globe so it is perhaps much more discerning. So, to do well on the web is definitely a compliment and very gratifying.”
Endnote
Web is satiating in more than ways. It opens employment opportunities filling in the void with necessary content that could make a world of a difference to our society!
