Mainstream and Indie Matters

Not just because it is lined in mainstream media, it is not substantial. Many mainstream films deserve the hype they got. Another, independent films have their own flaws. There are still indie films that totally whack.

Photo courtesy of Clipground (clipground.com)

What is better, mainstream or indie? This single question sparks debate over people, especially netizens across social media. Recently, I had listened (and watched) to an episode of a podcast by content creators AC Soriano and Yani Villarosa entitled Gabi ng Bading where they dealt with the issues of mainstream and independent films and series. In there, they have explained their sides as well as enlightened the viewers and listeners on how mainstream and independent film industries work.

Watch and listen to that episode of the podcast below.

You may have taken your own side, whether it be on mainstream or indie. Yet, before you give your statements that might be against each team, I think it is better if we get to know and differentiate the two, right? Below will be brief descriptions of each classification as well as why do they are both important in the industry.

What is with the mainstream?

In simple words, mainstream films are those that are produced by big production companies and are released in first-run theatres. What makes a film mainstream? First, a mainstream film caters to a wider audience. Lastly, it is also popular with most people – the masses. These kinds of films and series are considered light-hearted and became a source of escape for most Filipinos who mostly watch series or movies to be entertained and to lift their stress away.

Being produced by big production companies, these kinds of films usually have huge budgets and are widely distributed in movie houses. Given the huge budget, these films are often commercialized and made to have profited or to gain capital.

Prominent examples of mainstream films are movies produced by big film production companies like Star Cinema, Regal Films. Viva Films, and GMA Films as well as series produced by our local television channels.

Cathy Garcia-Molina’s ‘A Second Chance’ (2015)

Is indie the next big thing?

On the other hand, independent or indie films are those that are made without the purpose of capitalization which is visibly found in commercial or mainstream films. Being produced by local and smaller production houses, films of this type are usually low-budget since funds usually come from producers' own pockets or from different sponsors or donations.

These types of movies aren't widely distributed in movie theaters, therefore catering to fewer audiences than their mainstream counterparts. Hence, film festivals are inaugurated. These film festivals give recognition to the filmmakers and producers as well as a space for film geeks aside from these makers where they can all showcase and enjoy their films. Some film festivals include the following.

• Cinemalaya Film Festival

• CineFilipino Film Festival

• QCinema Film Festival

• Cinema One Originals Film Festivals

Includes short films, documentaries, experimental films, and animations, most topics of these films are usually veered away by mainstream films. These themes include poverty, sex, and oppression.

Maindie films, will they change the game?

Making a bridge between the two classifications, mainstream-indie or maindie films are definitely up for a challenge. Films of this kind are produced, brainstormed, and written by smaller production houses. In simpler terms, they are independently made.

Now, what makes them be considered mainstream? Simple, they are adopted by larger companies. Being distributed by these huge production firms, it is expected that these films will generate profit. In fact, some of the recently-shown local movies that are considered blockbuster hits fell under this category.

Some examples of these films are Kimmy Dora Trilogy, That Thing Called Tadhana, Kita Kita, and Ang Babae sa Septic Tank.

Antoinette Jadaone’s ‘That Thing Called Tadhana’ (2015)

Choosing between mainstream and indie

We all have our own preferences—on food, music, series, activities—literally over everything. Of course, it is safe to say that we all have our own preferences over the films we want to digest and watch. But, having your own preference doesn't give you the right and consideration to downgrade others because they don't prefer things the same way as you are.

Many people still prefer the mainstream. Not just because it is their escape mechanism but also, it is pretty much accessible than indie. Mainstream is obviously anywhere—television, radio, theater. Therefore, it reaches a wider audience and often caters mass of people. Its themes may be cliché to most of us but these are typically enjoyed by people because it is pretty easier to digest in. Despite any developments towards this classification, many people would still prefer their classics because that's what entertains them. It relieves their stress away.

Meanwhile, independent films must also be given an opportunity. Taken for granted by most of us, we should be more appreciative in terms of watching content under this category because it aims to be an eye-opener. Since the themes of the films made for this classification aren't the ones we usually encounter, people are definitely hesitant to watch. Yet, we must give it a try. Who knows? Maybe after few watches, independent films may be your cup of tea.

Whatever your preference is, always keep in mind that at the end of the day, not just because it is lined in mainstream media, it is not substantial. Many mainstream films deserve the hype they got. There will always be something good and of quality from these films lined along with the movie houses, garnering a bunch of sales from people. Another, independent films have their own flaws. There are still indie films that totally whack and fail to meet the expectations of their intended crowd. Remember, these classifications must not enclose the movie itself as it doesn’t really have any bearing as to which has more depth and value than the other.

Sources: Mainstream and Indie: The Philippines’ Film Industry (Philippine Primer)

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