ATN's Tribute to 100 Years of Indian Cinema is a special program that pays homage to the evolution of one of the largest film industries in the world. ATN - Asian Television Network, the largest South Asian broadcaster in Canada, has curated a carefully crafted show that celebrates the history and contribution of Indian cinema.
The program begins with an introduction by the host, who sets the tone and significance of the occasion. The host informs the audience that the Indian cinema industry, popularly known as Bollywood, attained a century-long history, and the show aims to take the viewers on a cinematic journey to explore the milestone moments and the significant players who shaped the industry.
The program is segmented into different epochs, starting from the silent era of cinema to the present day. Each segment features a snippet of iconic films, interviews with actors, filmmakers, filmmakers, and industry experts, who share their insights and experiences. The show also incorporates a mix of thrilling performances, behind-the-scenes footage, and never-seen-before photographs.
The first segment of the program is dedicated to the silent era, the formative phase of Indian cinema, where the films relied on intertitles and background music to convey the story. The segment highlights the first-ever Indian feature film- Raja Harishchandra and the significant contribution of Dadasaheb Phalke, who is considered the father of Indian cinema. The segment also showcases some of the most iconic films of the silent era, such as Kaliya Mardan and the first talkie, Alam Ara.
The second segment focuses on the golden era of Indian cinema, where films became more polished and sophisticated. The segment features interviews of some of the biggest stars of the era, including Raj Kapoor, Nargis, and Dev Anand, who discuss their experiences working on some of the most celebrated films of that time, such as Mughal-e-Azam, Shree 420, and Guide. The segment also delves into the emergence of playback singing and the contribution of legends like Lata Mangeshkar and Asha Bhosle.
The third segment of the program is dedicated to parallel cinema, a wave of Indian art films that emerged in the 1950s and challenged the conventional tropes of Indian cinema. The segment features interviews with filmmakers who were instrumental in the movement, including Satyajit Ray, Mrinal Sen, and Shyam Benegal. The segment showcases some of the masterpieces of the genre, such as Pather Panchali, Ankur, and Mandi.
The fourth segment focuses on the decline of the Indian cinema industry in the 1980s when the films became more formulaic and predictable. The segment highlights how the entry of new directors and actors revolutionized the industry, leading to the emergence of a new wave of films that deviated from the mainstream. The segment features interviews with some of the most prominent directors of the time, including Shekhar Kapur and Ramesh Sippy.
The fifth segment of the program is dedicated to the present-day scenario of Indian cinema, which has not only become more sophisticated in terms of storytelling and technology but also gained worldwide recognition. The segment features interviews of some of the biggest stars of the current generation, including Shahrukh Khan and Aamir Khan, who discuss their journey and the contribution of Indian cinema in the global stage.
Throughout the program, the host also sheds light on the various elements that characterize Indian cinema, including its unique mix of music, dance, and drama, and its ability to connect with audiences across borders and cultures. The program also features interactive elements, such as quizzes and opinion polls, to engage the audience.
In conclusion, ATN's Tribute to 100 Years of Indian Cinema is a well-curated program that showcases the evolution and the excellence of Indian cinema. The program not only highlights the milestones but also pays homage to the visionaries who shaped the industry. The show is a must-watch for anyone interested in Indian cinema and its contribution to the world of art and entertainment.
ATN's Tribute to 100 Years of Indian Cinema is a series that ran for 26 seasons (56 episodes) between August 7, 2019 and on ATN - Asian Television Network
