Dibakar Banerjee's film "Tees" release stalled by Netflix

Dibakar Banerjee's film "Tees," featuring actors Naseeruddin Shah and Manisha Koirala, faces a stalled release by Netflix India. Banerjee has been showcasing the film at various festivals since its cancellation. He describes the situation as "bizarre," feeling both good and bad that he is living out the film's narrative. The film presents a future where a writer's book is rejected by a government body. It also tells the story of a Kashmiri Muslim woman and her friendship with a Kashmiri Pandit during a time of conflict. Originally called "Freedom," the film's release was halted due to controversies linked to another series. Banerjee expressed disappointment but also saw a strange connection between his life and his film. He noted how filmmakers now often self-censor due to fear of legal action. Banerjee explains that many avoid controversial works to protect themselves. Despite feeling "sadness and grieving," he advises pushing forward by focusing on new projects. Banerjee emphasized the importance of portraying middle-class Indian families in films, regardless of their background. He wants viewers to see the similarities across cultures. His film addresses issues like societal problems exacerbated by technology, while he aims to spark thought and discussion rather than just entertainment. After experiencing a challenging period personally, he found solace in close relationships and community. Banerjee feels grateful to start fresh with new films, reflecting positively on the future of his career.