Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin, who recently retired from international cricket, has stirred a conversation about contemporary film-viewing habits and the pervasive influence of social media criticism. His comments come in the wake of the theatrical release of the much-anticipated film 'Coolie', starring superstar Rajinikanth and directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, which opened to a divided and largely negative response online.
Ashwin's Problem with the 'Not Good Enough' Verdict
In a candid discussion, Ashwin expressed his unease with the rapid and often harsh judgments passed on films in the digital age. Speaking about the initial reception of 'Coolie', he stated he had a fundamental issue with how easily the slogan 'this film is not good enough' gains traction. Ashwin revealed that the barrage of negative comments on social media platforms even made him second-guess watching the film in theaters. Consequently, he waited for its digital release.
Upon watching the film in its entirety on a digital platform, Ashwin's perspective shifted dramatically. He found himself engrossed, watching the movie in one sitting without pause—a testament, in his view, to its engaging narrative. He admitted that he did not perceive any major flaws that warranted the severe online backlash, highlighting a clear disconnect between curated online opinion and personal viewing experience.
The Gen Z Mindset and Social Media Amplification
Ashwin critically addressed the approach of the younger generation, particularly Gen Z, towards cinema. He pointed out a trend of approaching films with a 'quick judgmental mindset', where minor imperfections are magnified and rapidly disseminated across social networks. This culture, he suggested, can shape public perception before audiences form their own opinions.
His poignant question, "Am I being guided by the opinions I see online?" reflects a broader concern about the autonomy of the modern viewer. While acknowledging that professional film critics have a role in analytically dissecting a film's components, Ashwin emphasized that for the casual viewer, the overall experience and emotional connection often outweigh technical nitpicking.
A Fan's Defence and Industry Echoes
An ardent admirer of Rajinikanth, Ashwin has never shied away from praising the iconic actor. His defense of 'Coolie' aligns with director Lokesh Kanagaraj's own response to the criticism. Kanagaraj had previously issued a clarification, urging fans to manage their expectations and not let pre-release hype cloud their judgment. Ashwin's stance reinforces this sentiment, advocating for a more patient and individualistic appraisal of artistic work.
Beyond this specific incident, Ashwin reaffirmed his deep passion for Tamil cinema. He shared his enthusiasm for watching stars like Vijay and Ajith on the big screen upon release. For him, the true beauty of cinema lies not in its box office numbers but in its capacity as a medium where people learn about life through the stories of others.
Ashwin's insights open a vital dialogue on the impact of digital echo chambers on art consumption. They serve as a reminder to audiences to perhaps watch first and judge later, forming personal connections with films beyond the noise of trending hashtags and viral reviews.
