According to actor and intimacy coach Akshay Jha, independent cinema often does not reach the audience. To bridge the persistent gap, he is launching Cinema Salon, an experience-driven screening gala. The one-day event will be held on April 11 at Alliance Française de Bombay in Churchgate, Mumbai, with the screening of the English film, Iktsuarpok: The Weight of Longing.
What separates Cinema Salon from indie film festivals is that it reimagines how movies are experienced. “Film festivals look primarily at movies that have big names or sales agents attached to draw crowds. Thus festivals are similar to the box office, with their own set of stars,” noted Jha, adding that his initiative does away with the entire system.
A still from the film
Instead, it focuses on giving the audience an experience associated with the film. He explained, “Work is put into crafting an atmosphere and a mood appropriate for the movie. Post-screening engagement is designed such that the audience interacts with each other, delving into the film thematically. We’re making sure you experience the film using all your senses and intellect. Even refreshments are curated [as per] the film. Since indie cinema is not mainstream, a not-so-regular approach is needed. This format offers more than a regular visit to the movies.”
