In a recent conversation about his latest film CTRL, director Vikramaditya Motwane delves into the creative decisions behind the film, why he chose not to pursue a sequel, and how the screenlife format played a significant role in shaping the narrative. CTRL, starring the ever-talented Ananya Panday, has captivated audiences since it premiered on Netflix, sparking discussions about technology’s omnipresent role in our lives.
Vikramaditya Motwane, a visionary filmmaker, has once again delivered a film that speaks to contemporary concerns about technology and privacy. Originally, the film was set to end quite differently, with a plot twist centered around Nella’s desire for revenge against those who wronged her. However, this initial vision faced significant hurdles, especially when considered within the constraints of the screenlife format, a storytelling technique that portrays the story entirely through computer screens and digital interfaces.
Motwane shared insights on his creative process, explaining, “The screenlife format presented unique challenges. It’s a very immersive and real-time experience, capturing how we interact with our digital lives. A revenge-driven narrative would have demanded a much larger, potentially more traditional approach, far from the intimate confines of a computer screen.” It was this realization that steered the director to a more fitting climax that remained true to the screenlife concept.
Throughout the production, Vikramaditya was keen to retain the integrity and cautionary message of the film, even if it meant forgoing his initial ending. He remarked, “Ultimately, CTRL is about the consequences of technology. It reflects how deeply technology can intertwine with personal lives and decisions, sometimes with dangerous outcomes.” Opting not to delve into a sequel, Vikramaditya candidly stated, “Nella’s journey doesn’t lend itself to revenge or further narratives; she’s a symbol of caution, not a character for extended storytelling.”
CTRL introduces us to Nella Awasthi, portrayed by Ananya Panday, and Joe Mascarenhas, played by Vihaan Samat—a couple whose digital allure captures the love of their online audience. Yet, beneath this digital facade lies the harsh reality of their lives, which veers off-kilter when Nella becomes heavily reliant on a mysterious social media application, “CTRL”.
. This spiral prompts a poignant investigation into the balance between digital personas and actual identity.
Ananya Panday, excelling in her role as Nella, expressed her perspective on the complexities of the character. “Nella’s story is a mirror to the real world,” she shared. “We’ve all experienced the seductive grip of technology; we live and sometimes lose ourselves in the online realm. This film attempts to uncover the nuanced balance between who we project online and who we truly are.”
CTRL’s narrative encapsulates the nuances of digital dependency—exploring questions about privacy, control, and identity in an era where personal connections are often mediated through screens. This has resonated profoundly with audiences, who find the themes both relatable and cautionary.
Vikramaditya’s decision to leave the prospect of a sequel open-ended may intrigue CTRL’s viewers. Nevertheless, he strongly believes that extending Nella’s story into a revenge arc would detract from its foundational message. As speculation surrounds the future of such films and the evolution of screenlife storytelling, Motwane remains steadfast that the narrative of CTRL has achieved its intended purpose—to serve as a cautionary narrative.
Despite the constraints of the screenlife format, Motwane has innovatively crafted a film that is both contemporary and timely, posing critical reflections on digital culture’s pervasive influence. It is this bold, thought-provoking exploration that distinguishes CTRL, offering an experience that encourages viewers to reflect on the pervasive nature of technology in their own lives.
As the film continues to garner critical acclaim and audience attention, Vikramaditya Motwane remains a pivotal figure in cinematic storytelling, challenging norms and pushing the boundaries of how stories are told and experienced in the digital age. His work with CTRL highlights the importance of adapting narrative techniques to suit the themes being explored—a testament to his adaptability and insight as a filmmaker.
