The past few weeks have been exciting for film lovers as theatres finally offer fresh releases. From Saiyaara to Mahavatar Narsimha and Dhadak 2 to War 2, there are films of different genres for various audiences, leaving no room for monotony.
While many films performed well, several flopped, showing that the theatre business is gradually returning to a healthier state. Many viewers believe the shift is because audiences feel creatively exhausted by OTT platforms and want the theatrical experience.
In a recent interview, iconic producer and director Karan Johar discussed this trend. He explained that some films require a theatrical release, while others may perform better on OTT because they might not attract a larger audience on the big screen.
Using Saiyaara as an example, Karan said the film offers a quintessential Bollywood experience. The music, visual grandeur, and crowd atmosphere make theatres the ideal platform, as fans enjoy the communal energy and immersive experience.
Conversely, high-intensity dramas or niche films might not attract the same audience as mainstream musicals. Karan emphasised that there is no fixed formula. Even films expected to underperform could surprise viewers and achieve success.
For instance, Dharma’s project Kesari: Chapter 2 was thought to underperform due to its courtroom drama theme. However, Karan revealed that it exceeded expectations and performed better in theatres than many anticipated.
Ultimately, every film has its unique journey, and the medium—whether theatre or OTT depends on the film type and audience. The right platform ensures viewers experience the story as it was intended, making release strategy crucial for filmmakers.
