Watch: Why Indie films feel stuck: Case study
Why do some indie and arthouse films feel like they're going in circles? In this episode of Frequently Made Mistakes, filmmaker, screenwriter and film critic Sudhish Kamath unpacks one of the most common storytelling traps in modern cinema: getting stuck in the problem without ever moving toward a solution.
Using Chaitanya Tamhane's The Disciple as our case study, we explore the tension between uncompromising artistic vision and the need for forward momentum in storytelling. From auteur theory to poetic justice, this video dives into why films lose audiences when they loop through the same idea—and how to fix it.
We'll also break down two essential tools:
1. Forward Momentum (without sacrificing tone)
2. Poetic Justice (that feels earned, not tacked on)
Plus, stick around for this week's Writing 101 challenge: a practical exercise to sharpen your midpoints—because even slow cinema needs a turning point.
If you're a filmmaker, screenwriter, or just someone who loves watching stories evolve, this one's for you.
SUBSCRIBE for more deep dives into cinematic craft and screenwriting pitfalls.
COMMENT your favourite slow indie film—and whether it moved you or lost you.
Music: Ivan Avakian
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