Despite a Challenging Release Period, ‘Khel Khel Mein’ Perseveres
Director Mudassar Aziz’s film ‘Khel Khel Mein’ faced a tough start at the box office due to its release alongside two major films, *Stree 2* and *Vedaa*. Despite the initial underperformance, Aziz is optimistic about the film’s reception. He emphasizes that while the film’s box office numbers were not stellar initially, it has managed to sustain its presence in cinemas.
Contrasting with Successful Films
Aziz draws a comparison between *Khel Khel Mein* and successful films like *Kantara* (2022) and *Pushpa: The Rise* (2021), which demonstrated long-term box office success. He notes that these films showed impressive box office results over an extended period, contrasting them with films that performed well on OTT platforms before gaining traction in theaters, such as *Laapataa Ladies*. Aziz highlights this shift in how audiences engage with films, reflecting on the changing landscape of theatrical releases.
The Changing Theatrical Business
Aziz comments on the evolving nature of the theatrical business, noting significant changes in audience behavior and film performance. “When I see the dramatic business, I see that there has been a change,” he observes. The way audiences react to movies and how they choose which movies to observe has moved, with OTT platforms playing a critical part in changing conventional designs.
The Impact of Box Office Performance
Acknowledging that box office performance affects him, Aziz admits, “It would be dishonest to say it doesn’t shake you in the beginning.” However, he remains focused on the positive aspects of audience and critic feedback. Aziz explains that while box office numbers are influenced by various factors—such as the popularity of a song or media controversies—long-term success often hinges on the film’s inherent quality and audience acceptance. “Numbers can be governed by several factors. In some cases, you may see a film with a great opening weekend because of one song or controversy, but it might not sustain,” he adds.
Impact of the Box Office Clash
Reflecting on the box office clash with ‘Vedaa’ and *Stree 2 *, Aziz offers a touch of confusion. He remarks on the quick judgments made by society, including himself, about film success. Aziz considers whether the presence of a significant holiday weekend for the lead actor might have allowed the film to perform better.“We have gotten to be a society which is exceptionally speedy to judge. As a filmmaker, you wonder if allowing your principal star a holiday weekend might have helped.”
Evolving Audience Behavior
Aziz emphasizes the shift in audience behavior, particularly with the rise of OTT platforms. He notes that OTT viewers are now more inclined to support a film based on its content rather than being swayed by box office numbers or early figures.“OTT watchers are willing to permit legs to a film without being impacted by box office numbers,” he clarifies. This change reflects a more nuanced approach to film appreciation, focusing on content rather than immediate commercial success.
Focus on Content Over Box Office Numbers
Despite the challenges, Aziz is pleased that discussions around *Khel Khel Mein* are increasingly centered on its content rather than its box office performance.“I am cheerful that discussions are presently centering on the film’s content,” he says. However, he acknowledges that for many, the film’s financial success remains a critical factor. “The disastrous part is that indeed in spite of the fact that a segment of the audience and exchange are talking almost the content, it all bubbles down to box office business,” he concludes.
In summary, Mudassar Aziz’s reflections on *Khel Khel Mein* highlight the complexities of the modern film industry. The changing dynamics of audience behavior, the impact of box office clashes, and the evolving role of OTT platforms are all contributing factors to the current landscape of film performance. Despite initial setbacks, Aziz remains optimistic about the film’s reception and the shift towards valuing content over mere box office numbers.
