FTII graduates may be roped in to certify movies

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) is mulling to rope in fresh graduates from the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) on its panels to examine films in association with other senior members.

The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) is mulling to rope in fresh graduates from the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) on its panels to examine films in association with other senior members.

HT Image

This proposal will be taken up in a censor board meeting in Mumbai Tuesday.

"It is being strongly felt that bringing in young film graduates to examine films along with senior censor board members will infuse fresh blood and provide for a fine blending of youth with experience," sources said. As of now, the proposal intends to include the young members on a temporary basis.

"We plan to take it up in the censor board meeting. But as of now, it is just a thought," Leela Samson, CBFC chairperson told HT.

Samson is said to have placed the proposal during a recent meeting with the regional officers.

FTII, Pune, provides the latest technological experience in the art and technique of film and TV production.

CBFC has nine regional offices headed by regional officers who are assisted by advisory panels represented by personalities from all walks of life. Apart from the chairperson, the central panel has 15 members.

Often accused of a traditionalist and outdated posture that is not keeping with the times, the infusion of fresh blood will also bring in more contemporary depictions on celluloid.

Moreover, as FTII students hail from all corners of the country, inclusion of the graduates will also lead to celluloid portrayals that are more sensitised to peculiar regional and cultural traits and ethos.

"It is definitely a welcome measure. Young students being roped will definitely broadbase the judging of a film all the more," said Jahnu Barua, acclaimed filmmaker and FTII alumni.