Director Abhishek Chaubey believes craft without emotion is pointless

Whether it’s the turbulent world of drug abuse in Udta Punjab or the harsh realities of post-Independence India in Sonchiriya, his films are a testament to his commitment to themes with sincerity. Abhishek Chaubey, a director who is known to explore the complexities of human nature and the harsh realities of society, is known for crafting narratives that reflect the darker and often neglected sides of life.

Currently working on a series set in Bihar, a region often underrepresented in mainstream cinema, Chaubey says, “It’s a very interesting subject. The series will delve into the complexities of the region, combining both social drama and thriller elements.” In addition to this series, Chaubey is also working on a historical thriller set 120 years ago. “It’s going to be an exciting project. It’s a thriller with some action, but it’s set in a different time period, which gives it a unique flavour.”

For Chaubey, the key to filmmaking remains rooted in honesty, authenticity, and a deep connection with the self. “Every film is a reflection of who you are. If you’re not true to yourself, your audience will feel it.”

From where it all began was the mentorship of none other than Vishal Bhardwaj, one of India’s most celebrated filmmakers. Working as an assistant director on films like The Blue Umbrella and later contributing to Omkara, Kaminey and Matru Ki Bijli Ka Mandola, Chaubey learned the nuances of filmmaking, from shot breakdowns to the art of weaving compelling stories. He credits Bhardwaj not only for his technical knowledge but for shaping his understanding of what it means to be a filmmaker. Reflecting on his early years, Chaubey says, “I didn’t go to film school. After college, I came to Mumbai and by good fortune, I met Vishal sir. I had the chance to work with him and that experience made me the director I am today—both in terms of craft and as a person.”

Chaubey shares that it wasn’t until he began writing that he realised what filmmaking truly entailed. “Film is not just about creating shots; it’s about understanding the emotion, the narrative, the world you’re building. It’s about understanding the theme you’re exploring. I was making shots and scenes before, but it was only when I started writing that I understood the depth of storytelling.”

Chaubey’s films are known for their raw, gritty approach to storytelling. For Chaubey, the balance between craft and emotion is key. “Craft without emotion, craft without theme, is pointless,” he asserts. “You can be an academic authority on cinema and still not know how to make a film. It’s about connecting emotionally. That’s what ultimately drives a story forward.” It’s this emotional depth that defines Chaubey’s filmmaking style. He believes a filmmaker must first understand themselves and their own emotions before they can create a connection with the audience. “If I’m portraying an emotion—whether it’s pain, joy or fear—it has to come from a place of real understanding. If you don’t feel it, how can you expect anyone else to?”

One of the most challenging aspects of filmmaking today is balancing artistic vision with commercial success. While Chaubey’s films have been both critically acclaimed and commercially successful, he is adamant about staying true to his artistic vision, even if it means sacrificing mainstream appeal. “I don’t consciously think about balancing the two,” Chaubey explains. “My only ambition when making a film is to be as honest as I can with the story. I want to make sure that the emotion, the theme and the message are portrayed in the most effective way possible. I don’t want to lie to myself or to my audience.”

He goes on to emphasise that his work will never be compromised for the sake of commercial success. “There are certain things I won’t do, no matter what. For example, I don’t like item numbers. They can be fun, but I can’t endorse the objectification of the person performing on screen. If I had to include an item number to make the film a success, I wouldn’t. I’d rather make a film that stays true to my vision, even if it doesn’t become a massive hit.”

The road to making the films that he does is not easy. One of the most significant hurdles, he notes, is the increasing difficulty of raising finances for films that have an alternative or independent voice. “In a market where commercial cinema is dominating, raising funds for films with a political or social message becomes difficult. Producers want to see returns, and they often don’t want to take risks on stories that don’t fit the mainstream mold,” he shares.

However, Chaubey remains optimistic about the cyclical nature of the industry. “Right now, we are in a phase where independent cinema has a smaller space, but things always change. There are cycles, and this is just one of them. Just because things are tough now doesn’t mean they will always be this way,” he says.

Lifestyle