Emraan Hashmi’s latest Netflix drama Taskaree: The Smuggler’s Web released yesterday and has sparked wide discussion online. Viewers are sharing mixed reactions. During a recent interaction, Hashmi also spoke about larger concerns facing cinema today.
He said the condition of theatrical business is worrying, not just in India but across the world. According to Emraan Hashmi, audiences now prefer only large event films, especially those released during Eid, Diwali, or national holidays.
He believes mid-sized films no longer pull crowds to theatres. Viewers often skip them in cinemas. Many now wait for an OTT release instead of spending on theatre tickets for smaller films.
Emraan Hashmi explained that he chooses projects carefully after over 25 years in the industry. He avoids repeating past roles. He added that filmmakers today remain heavily focused on box office performance.
He pointed out that the short four to six week gap between theatrical and OTT releases affects audience behaviour. Viewers feel they can wait and watch films at home. Comfort and convenience now outweigh the theatre experience.
He cited Leonardo DiCaprio’s Hollywood film One Battle After Another as an example. Despite positive reviews, it failed at the box office. Emraan believes the film would have performed better if released a decade earlier.
He also highlighted the rising cost of watching films in theatres. A family outing can cross 5,000 when tickets and food are added. This pushes families to choose only big star-driven spectacles.
According to Emraan Hashmi, theatres now cater mainly to the elite. The common man feels left out. He stressed the need for more mid-sized films so cinema remains accessible and inclusive for everyone.
