Kiran Rao: Kiran Rao on Outsiders & Nepo Kids

Kiran Rao on Outsiders & Nepo Kids News Update on SerialBoosters.com

Filmmaker Kiran Rao recently shared her balanced perspective on the ongoing debate in the film industry about "outsiders" (those without film connections) and "nepo kids" (children from established film families). She highlighted that while both groups face challenges, the nature of those struggles is different.

Kiran Rao acknowledged that actors from film families, often called "nepo kids," come with a significant amount of "baggage." They are constantly viewed through a "lens of privilege" and face the assumption that they have taken easy shortcuts. This can create a unique hurdle the "obstacle of perception." 

No matter how hard they work, the public often has high expectations or a negative preconceived notion, which makes their journey tough in its own way. She noted that many "star kids" need multiple films to finally prove themselves and become successful.

On the other hand, Rao suggested that outsiders or new actors have an advantage because they have no pre-existing public perception. People are more willing to "grow with them," appreciate their strengths, and accept their weaknesses without the same level of intense scrutiny or expectation.

Audiences today often have a curiosity and a desire to "discover talent," which works in favor of newcomers who are not part of the established star system. She agreed that in today's environment, it might actually be easier for an outsider to make a unique mark.

Beyond the insider-outsider debate, Kiran Rao also stressed that a more important discussion is the "death of stardom" in its traditional sense. She believes the old star system, where a few major personalities dominated, is fading. Today, "stardom" comes from many different places, like digital content creators, web series, and social media. The new "stars" are those whose work is followed closely online, even if they aren't traditional Bollywood heroes or heroines.

In a past statement that she has reiterated, Kiran Rao also acknowledged that nepotism exists in all parts of society, not just films. However, she emphasized that while parents will always want their children to succeed, ultimately, "only merit will speak." 

This means that regardless of family background, a person's talent and hard work are what will truly determine their long-term success in the industry. She prefers working with new talent, partly because they fit better with her style of independent filmmaking, which focuses on equality and limited resources, and they often come without the "baggage" of a huge entourage. To know such latest updates, stay tuned to serialboosters.com Thank you!