Amidst the turmoil Bollywood is experiencing, prominent filmmaker Karan Johar has called for a major overhaul and a new understanding of what constitutes theatrical success.
As the industry grapples with declining box office numbers, Karan Johar's insights shed light on the urgent need for change.
Reflecting on the industry's struggles, Karan Johar noted the stark contrast between high expectations and dismal box office results. He pointed out that while some actors demand exorbitant fees of Rs 35 crore, their films often open to a mere Rs 3.5 crore. "How's that math working?" he questioned during a conversation with journalist Faye D’Souza on her YouTube channel.
He emphasized that audiences have become more selective, favoring certain types of cinema, which necessitates films performing well across various centers, not just multiplexes.
Karan highlighted the increasing costs of filmmaking, exacerbated by inflation and the high salaries demanded by top actors. This, coupled with substantial marketing expenses, creates a challenging environment where films often fail to meet financial expectations. "We haven't found our footing yet," he lamented, noting that the current state of Hindi cinema is characterized by a lack of direction and conviction.
Discussing the evolving syntax of Bollywood, he remarked that the industry is currently struggling to find a consistent formula for success. He criticized the herd mentality that leads filmmakers to chase trends rather than create films with genuine conviction. "Conviction has taken a complete beating," he stated, urging filmmakers to focus on rooted Indian cinema that resonates with audiences without succumbing to critical pressures.
He also stressed the importance of not alienating audiences in smaller towns and Tier 2 cities. He argued that urban-centric films, while appealing to a niche audience, fail to achieve significant box office success unless made at a controlled budget.
Karan Johar’s latest production, "Kill," is currently in theaters.