Laapataa… Would Have Been a Huge Success if OTT Release was Late: Aamir
Aamir Khan, the perfectionist of Bollywood, has spoken candidly about the impact of OTT releases on box office performance. His latest film, Laapataa Ladies, which premiered on Netflix just eight weeks after its theatrical release, has left the actor wondering what could have been. In a recent interview, Aamir revealed that if the OTT release had been delayed, Laapataa Ladies would have been a “huge” box office success.
Laapataa Ladies is an unusual case, where the film’s theatrical run and OTT release overlapped. The film, which stars Alia Bhatt, Deepika Padukone, and Kareena Kapoor Khan, received mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike. Despite this, the film managed to collect a decent amount at the box office, but Aamir believes that its OTT release hindered its commercial success.
In an interview with a leading daily, Aamir Khan emphasized the importance of box office performance, saying, “Reviews are subjective—some people like a film, some don’t…but the box office is unemotional…it gives you a very definite yardstick.” He went on to explain that the box office is a better indicator of a film’s success, as it takes into account the opinions of a larger audience.
Aamir’s comments resonate with many in the film industry, who have been debating the impact of OTT releases on box office performance. The rise of streaming platforms has changed the way we consume films, with many opting for the convenience of watching a movie from the comfort of their own homes. While this has opened up new opportunities for filmmakers, it has also created challenges in terms of box office performance.
One of the main concerns is that OTT releases can cannibalize ticket sales, as audiences opt for the cheaper and more convenient option of streaming a film rather than visiting a theater. This is especially true for films that are released on both platforms simultaneously, like Laapataa Ladies. Aamir’s comments suggest that the film’s OTT release may have affected its box office performance, which could have been stronger if it had been given a longer theatrical run.
The debate around OTT releases and box office performance is complex and multifaceted. On one hand, streaming platforms offer a new way for filmmakers to reach a wider audience and generate revenue. On the other hand, the proliferation of OTT releases can make it harder for films to stand out and achieve commercial success.
Aamir’s comments highlight the need for a balance between theatrical and OTT releases. While streaming platforms can provide a new revenue stream for filmmakers, they should not come at the expense of the traditional box office experience. Aamir’s suggestion that Laapataa Ladies would have been a “huge” success if its OTT release had been delayed is a testament to the importance of giving films a chance to shine on the big screen.
In conclusion, Aamir Khan’s comments on Laapataa Ladies serve as a reminder of the importance of balancing theatrical and OTT releases. While streaming platforms offer new opportunities for filmmakers, they should not come at the expense of the traditional box office experience. As the film industry continues to evolve, it is essential that we find a way to strike a balance between these two approaches, ensuring that films can thrive on both platforms.
