Imtiaz Ali opens up on his decision to release 'Amar Singh Chamkila' digitally and not in theatres

Renowned filmmaker Imtiaz Ali is all set to unveil his latest project, 'Amar Singh Chamkila,' a gripping tale chronicling the life of the legendary Punjabi musician-singer. Starring Diljit Dosanjh and Parineeti Chopra, the film promises to offer audiences a riveting cinematic experience. However, what sets this release apart is Imtiaz Ali's decision to premiere the film on Netflix rather than opting for a traditional theatrical release.

In a recent interview with Pinkvilla, Imtiaz Ali shed light on his unconventional choice, emphasizing the need to explore new avenues in the ever-evolving landscape of cinema. He expressed his belief that embracing new platforms like OTT streaming services allows filmmakers to reach a wider audience and cater to diverse viewer preferences.

Reflecting on his decision, Imtiaz Ali remarked, "Well, new things come along and you must try it… I believe that I am like a big cinema watcher, like a theatre viewer and a director. When I close my eyes and think about a film, I always imagine myself on the big screen in a theatre and watching the big screen. I can't help it, but I don't think that will be a bad thing for a film I made for an OTT."

The filmmaker emphasized the universality of the story of Amar Singh Chamkila, underscoring his desire to ensure that audiences beyond Punjab and even beyond the borders of India can connect with and appreciate the narrative. Imtiaz Ali's decision to make the film in Hindi further reflects his intention to make the story accessible to a wider audience, transcending linguistic and cultural barriers.

'Amar Singh Chamkila' delves into the tumultuous life of the Punjabi singer-musician who dominated the music scene in the 1980s. His music, marked by sexually explicit and controversial themes, stirred considerable controversy in the state, ultimately leading to his tragic assassination along with his wife, Amarjot.

As the release date for 'Amar Singh Chamkila' approaches, Imtiaz Ali's vision for the film and his innovative approach to storytelling continue to garner attention. The film is all set to stream on Netflix from 12th April.