In what can be termed as a radical, defining change to the very concept of award shows in general, MTV has dropped its gender-specific honours —male and female actors will now compete in one single category. The move follows the Grammys’ decision in 2011, to do away with gender distinctions between male and female singers, collaborations and groups. The MTV nominees for this year’s best actor in a movie include the likes of Taraji P. Henson, Hugh Jackman, James McAvoy and Emma Watson, amongst others. Going with the growing tide of gender-neutrality in many fields, the progressive stance has been hailed by many — with the hope that other biggies like the Academy Awards, Golden Globes and the Emmys will follow suit.
However, not everyone is on board with the abolishment of ‘gendered’ categories. Despite sounding liberal on paper, it could well result in women getting fewer awards than ever — given the male-driven nature of the industry, and female-centric films being far and few in between. So, is the onus on the jury now to ensure equal footing for both sexes while nominating them? But, could that result in that extra deserving male/ female nominee being left out of the running? As we consider the policy a potential template for award shows in the future, we talk to national award-wining actors, technicians and more on their take.
Savita Singh, cinematographer (The Ventilator, Phoonk):
In principle, it is a really good idea. Elevating gender neutrality in any way possible is really a commendable thing; no doubt about it. So, by this, the award becomes wholly and solely for the work and nothing more than that. But you cannot rule out the possibility that it could bring down the number of awards for female artistes. Although it is too early take a stand.
Suhasini Mani Ratnam, National Award winner:
Given the scenario in south, the MTV Awards policy will make things very difficult for women especially in Tamil, Telugu and Kannada movies. In a hero-driven industry, solid stories and characters are not written for women barring few exceptions. I guess it is slightly better in Malayalam, as I know scripts have been created for Manju Warrier. All said and done, irrespective of any setting, some of the actresses like Nayanthara, Priyanka Chopra and Kangana Ranaut will give tough competition to their male counterparts.
Pritish Nandy, film producer:
According to me, it’s a very progressive step and a nice way to look at the future of gender neutrality. The jury-based awards if represented equally, should not be biased. True merit will rise and get recognised. Having said that, if it’s a voter’s choice awards, it may vary as the male population is larger and more active than their female counterpart — the popular awards may sway the other way.
Surabhi Lakshmi, National Award winner:
It is definitely a great leap forward. In any awards, for that matter, the deserving artist should be given the recognition and gender should not be a criterion for the same. During the initial days of my career, I had taken part in a reality show named ‘Best Actor’, where we all were participants and in a single category. I won the show, competing against men and other women — so, an argument that gender neutrality in awards will lessen the chances of women winning is absurd! The female actors of our film industry are immensely talented, so much so that they are representing our country internationally, which not many men have done.
Saranya Ponvannan, national award winner:
I am not for this move of MTV, whereby men and women will compete only under a single category. I want more and more to be given awards in fact! Lead, supporting, comedy, villain and child artiste categories should all be celebrated. That will motivate us to work harder. Even if it does happen someday, Tamil filmmakers have been writing women-centric scripts over several years. Directors tell me that they tailored the character just for me! The number of such movies are less, but women do stand a chance nevertheless.
Brent Goble, actor, dancer & weapons instructor:
I think it’s a welcome change and I’m interested in seeing the end results. I am concerned about certain performances being left out later on in the running. I know in my experience, growing up, I idolised certain male action heroes because I could relate to them and I am sure it’s the same for women relating to the female actresses and their journeys on screen. I just want (the committee) to make sure that all the performances are included and everything is taken as a respective experience. Only by doing that, will we be able to justify the concept fully.
Anjali Nair, kerala state film award winner:
As an individual, I welcome the concept of gender neutrality. However, it is a question of practicality since giving awards to the actors based on their performances is an area that requires deep assessment. The committee members will definitely have their take on the same, but I feel that it might not do justice to the criteria under which male and female performers are judged. Both the genders have their own weaknesses and strengths when it comes to acting, singing, etc. The method of presentation and how a man and a woman conceive a character are different. The fact that the awards women will receive will decrease is true to an extent keeping in mind the male dominance in the Indian film industry.
