Emraan Hashmi Sounds Alarm on Theatrical Business Crisis
Bollywood actor Emraan Hashmi has voiced serious concerns about the current state of theatrical business in India. He believes the industry faces a worrisome situation as audience habits shift dramatically.
Short OTT Windows Impact Cinema Footfalls
In a recent interview with PTI, Hashmi highlighted how the short gap between theatrical and digital releases affects cinema attendance. He noted that films now reach OTT platforms within four to six weeks of their theater debut.
"People often think, 'We will watch this at home in like four to six weeks,'" Hashmi explained. This mindset causes many viewers to skip theater visits entirely.
Spectacle Films Dominate Theater Preferences
Hashmi observed that audiences now primarily visit cinemas for big spectacle movies. Films lacking elements like hit songs or romance struggle to attract theatergoers.
"If the movie doesn't have those elements, it fails to pull people to theaters," he stated bluntly.
Leonardo DiCaprio Example Highlights Industry Shift
When asked about Leonardo DiCaprio's recent comments on theatrical business being in a "worrisome state," Hashmi agreed completely. He cited DiCaprio's own film 'One Battle After Another' as a perfect example.
"That film tanked," Hashmi said. "Probably ten years back, it wouldn't have. But now people think, 'Let's watch it on OTT. It seems like that indie film.'"
He emphasized that this attitude represents a significant change from previous years when such thinking didn't exist.
Multiplexes and High Ticket Prices Add to Problems
Hashmi identified additional factors contributing to the crisis:
- The rise of multiplexes has changed viewing patterns
- High ticket prices deter regular cinema visits
- Filmmakers now carefully weigh theatrical versus OTT releases
"Everyone is scared of picking up something that is theatrical," he revealed. "They weigh the pros and cons of what would work and what wouldn't."
Hashmi's Selective Approach to Projects
The actor shared that he has become more selective about his projects. He looks for explosive content that works well in either theatrical or OTT formats.
"My rejection process is a little more elaborate now," Hashmi admitted. He wants to avoid repeating past career choices while navigating the changing entertainment landscape.
Upcoming Project on Netflix
On the work front, Emraan Hashmi's next project is the web series 'Taskaree'. The series will premiere on Netflix on January 14, 2026, marking his continued presence in the digital space.
Hashmi's comments reflect broader industry concerns as traditional theatrical business models face unprecedented challenges from streaming platforms and changing audience preferences.
