Heroine Faces the Heat, But Who Takes the Responsibility?

In cinema, when a movie has controversial scenes, especially bold scenes, the first people who face questions are usually the hero or heroine. Their photos are shared, their performances are discussed, and they may even face trolling on social media. But one important question is often missed: Who actually decided to put that scene in the movie?

The recent comments by director Aditya Haasan about EPIC have started this discussion again. He said that heroine Vaishnavi was nervous while doing some bold scenes and assured her that he would support her if she faced any negative comments. He also said that he would take responsibility for her character.

This is an important statement because an actor may be the person seen on screen, but the director is the person who decides how the story should be presented.

If a bold scene is written in the script, the director approves it. If it is shot in a particular way, the director decides how it should look. The editor, cinematographer and other members of the team also work under the creative direction of the filmmaker. So, when audiences dislike a scene, why should the heroine alone carry the criticism?

The heroine is often the first person to face the effects because her face is directly connected with the scene. Social media users may judge her without knowing the situation behind the shooting. Some may even forget that she was performing a character written by someone else.

This does not mean actors have no responsibility. Artists can discuss scenes, ask questions and decide whether they are comfortable doing them. But directors and writers also have a major responsibility. They must understand how a scene may affect the actor and how audiences may receive it.

Cinema is a team effort. Therefore, appreciation should not go only to actors, and criticism should not fall only on them.

If a director is ready to say, “I will support my heroine and take responsibility,” that is certainly a positive step. But ideally, such responsibility should begin before the scene is shot.

Actors should not be treated as easy targets. If a scene creates controversy, the entire creative team should stand together and explain the reason behind it. The person on screen may face the reaction first, but the person behind the camera should also be ready to face questions.