In the recent video, that is doing the rounds on the internet late actress Smita Patil is seen speaking about formula films and the depiction of women in the 70s. In an interview which was filmed before the actress died, she talked about the then culture of films and how they were viewed. And with whatever she said, it even holds true to this day.
The veteran star said that she has worked in commercial films which does not mean only the art or commercial ones but even formula movies. The formula films, which have been made in the last decade and ever since the beginning of the industry, have seen a diverse change.
And since there is a formula in those movies, women have been portrayed in a similar manner. In the past films, they were always shown as suffering, weak, obeying their husband’s orders and as stupid. If not these characters then they were depicted in negative roles or as vamps who sell their body. But when it comes to prostitution, many such classic films have been made in the past such as Devdas and even in the 50s.
However, if we look at today’s spectrum, the depiction of prostitutes has just been limited to showcasing their bodies. Their emotional pain and challenges for choosing that kind of job are not enlightenment in the true self, which she feels is wrong.
Smita Patil had been a phenomenal actress during her tenure. She even received a National award for her role in the film Bhumika (1977), which was directed by Shyam Benegal. The actress is also known for her best performances in films such as Bazaar, Namak Halal, Aaj Ki Awaaz, Mandi, Shakti and Arth.
