Mangaluru: Regional cinema is less influenced by Bollywood. We produce more sensible films now, said filmmakers Rishab Shetty and Rohit Padaki here on Sunday.

In conversation with Pradeep Kenchanur on ‘India in cinema – representation and narrative’ at the Mangaluru Literary Festival, Mr. Shetty said regional cinemas were breaking from the set formulae of filmmaking. “You can relate to characters in films like Ulidavaru Kandante and Sarakari Hiriya Prathamika Shaale Kasaragod – Koduge Ramanna Rai,” he said.

Mr. Shetty said, “I believe in telling the story honestly. People have made such films a success,” and added that the narrative of film changes every 10 years.

Mr. Padaki said it was important that films portrayed Indian lifestyles and culture. For this, filmmakers should do extensive research and develop a deep understanding. There are very few films that have studied India, he said.