Shahid Kapoor on OTT vs theatrical release

With the rise of OTT platforms, the theatrical experience has seen a significant shift, and actor Shahid Kapoor believes that content creators must evolve accordingly. As he gears up for the release of Deva, Shahid weighed in on the ongoing debate about cinema footfall, stressing that filmmakers need to offer something unique for audiences to return to theatres.
Speaking to India Today while promoting Deva in Delhi, Shahid explained that while audiences can easily consume content at home, the magic of the big screen remains unparalleled. He cited the example of singer Diljit Dosanjh, pointing out that people can listen to his music anytime but still choose to attend his live concerts for the immersive experience. Similarly, cinema must provide an experience that cannot be replicated on a smaller screen.
According to Shahid, audience behavior has changed drastically. Viewers now recognize that they can watch most films at home without missing out on much. This, he said, puts the onus on filmmakers to create stories that justify the theatre-going experience. Shahid emphasized that movies and OTT content serve different purposes, with streaming platforms allowing for longer narratives consumed at the viewer’s convenience. Meanwhile, films are structured into two halves, demanding a compelling and engaging format to keep audiences invested.

Shahid, who plays a rugged cop in Deva, further stressed that actors, writers, and directors need to adapt their storytelling techniques. He urged content creators to be mindful of evolving audience preferences and craft stories that demand to be watched on the big screen.