In a seminal exploration of the digital transformation within the Indian media industry, Smith Mehta’s latest book, “The New Screen Ecology in India: Digital Transformation of Media,” looks into the profound changes brought about by social media platforms on contemporary film and television production. The author argues that these platforms have not only shifted the dynamics of content creation but have also blurred the lines between amateurs and professionals, giving rise to a ‘new screen ecology.’
Mehta’s research, based on extensive interviews with creators, platform executives, talent agents, and multi-channel networks, unveils the intricate web of social relations shaping the Indian screen industries. The book focuses on 13 major platforms, including Hotstar, Netflix, YouTube, and TVFPlay, providing a comprehensive analysis of how they leverage the freedom from traditional censorship and industrial practices.
One of the key aspects highlighted in the book is the impact of the ‘new screen ecology’ on television production, with narratives evolving in response to the digital shift. Mehta goes beyond theoretical discussions by scrutinizing the production practices of various platforms, shedding light on their benefits arising from a lack of restrictive industry norms.
The book also search into the emergence of online creator culture in India, emphasizing regional and localized content practices. Mehta examines the role of intermediaries such as talent agents and multi-channel networks, further revealing how these entities contribute to the changing landscape of the Indian media industry.
Available as an open-access ebook under a CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 license on Bloomsbury, the book has been made possible through the financial support of the Open Access Book Fund of the University of Groningen.
For film enthusiasts and industry professionals alike, “The New Screen Ecology in India” provides a unique and insightful examination of the dynamics of digital transformation in the Indian screen industries. It also offers a region-specific perspective, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the evolving landscape of media in India.