'It's a business': Vicky Kaushal defends hyper-masculine action films
What's the story
Vicky Kaushal, who recently starred in the blockbuster Chhaava, has defended hyper-masculine action films. Speaking at the Yuvaa conclave, he said that these movies are a reflection of societal demand and not just a trend in the industry. "There have always been phases and trends in the industry... The phase is dictated by society, and not the other way around," he stated.
Industry dynamics
'Gauge what the demand is, and then supply...'
Kaushal further stressed that the film industry operates on a demand-and-supply basis. He said, "It's a business, at the end of the day, and we would like to tell you stories that you would like to hear." He acknowledged that every year there are a few films that defy this trend, but he added, "more than ever, it will be that (filmmakers) will try to gauge what the demand is, and then supply accordingly."
Current trends
'The audience needs to be given an experience...'
Kaushal admitted that there is a current trend where audiences seek an immersive theater experience, which is achieved through stunning visuals, sound, and high stimulation. "Of course there is a phase going on right now where the audience needs to be given an experience in theaters," he said. However, he doesn't see anything wrong with this trend and believes it will eventually pass when audiences signal their disinterest in such films.
Controversy
'Chhaava' was a massive hit but also faced backlash
Kaushal's recent film, Chhaava, directed by Laxman Utekar, was a massive commercial success but also faced criticism for its incendiary narrative. The film sparked communal tensions and violence in several parts of the country. Despite the controversy, it emerged as one of the biggest Indian hits of the year, grossing over ₹800 crore worldwide, per Sacnilk. Kaushal will next be seen in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Love and War alongside Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor.