In a recent conversation, Emraan Hashmi opened up about the changing dynamics of the theatrical business. During an interview with PTI, he expressed his concerns regarding the shrinking gap between a film’s theatrical release and its OTT release, and how it is influencing audience behaviour today.
Emraan highlighted that with movies arriving on OTT platforms within just four to six weeks of their theatrical release, many viewers are choosing to skip the big screen experience. He noted that unless a film offers a massive spectacle, a soul-stirring love story, or hit music, people prefer the comfort of their homes. According to the actor, audiences now feel, “We will watch this at home in like four to six weeks.”
The discussion took an interesting turn when Emraan was asked to comment on Hollywood superstar Leonardo DiCaprio’s recent observations about the worrisome state of the global theatrical business. Agreeing with the sentiment, Emraan said, “It is worrisome.”
To explain his point, he talked about DiCaprio’s latest Oscar-winning film, One Battle After Another. Despite its critical acclaim and awards, the film struggled to draw audiences to the theatres. Emraan shared, “If you see his latest film, One Battle After Another, it tanked. Probably ten years back, it wouldn’t have. But right now, that film has become, ‘Let’s watch it on OTT. It seems like that indie film.'”
He further explained that a decade ago, such a mindset didn’t exist, making the current environment particularly challenging for filmmakers. He added, “It has become very difficult.”
Emraan also spoke about how the industry is now navigating this shift with caution. He mentioned that everyone is somewhat scared of picking up something that is theatrical and weighing the pros and cons of what would work and what would not work. Because of this, his own selection process has become more rigorous. He said, “So, when something explosive comes in theatrical or OTT, I pick that up. The rejection process is a little more elaborate.”
Emraan also pointed toward rising ticket prices and the growth of multiplexes as contributing factors to the decline in theatre footfalls. On the work front, Emraan Hashmi is gearing up for the release of his upcoming web series, Taskaree, which releases on Netflix today.
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