Since the pandemic set in, the only way people entertained themselves was through streaming service or playing games. Gaming, artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented reality (AR) have become a part of our lives. It is argued that what is watched on a smart phone is ‘private screening’ as opposed to ‘public exhibition’ of films in cinema theatres. Thus it is a matter of discussion how much it should be regulated. Such so called private watching did become collective watching of a family during the pandemic. The issue is how the content is consumed.
Streaming services do provide disclaimers, age-related classifications and qualify content containing nudity, drug consumption, and abusive language. Content creators should educate people on what content is deemed correct for whom.
Though creative freedom is an exploratory concept, there should be concern for cultural nuances of a country. To illustrate, France is okay with frontal nudity, whereas the US is not. France has problem with mafia films, whereas US does not. It should be left to the content creators to take cognizance of this. It is not necessary to subject the content to formal certification. Sacred Games was seen in 127 countries in the world, and it was an Indian product.
The new medium must be understood. Age-related classification is a way forward. Responsibility must be shared both by the viewers and content producers.
India has great tradition of storytelling. We have the potential to lead in the digital space.