Abhishek Bachchan has explored diverse roles in his recent projects. Whether it's an alcoholic and bitter cricket coach in Ghoomer or a serial killer in Breathe: Into the Shadows, or just a dad doing what's best for his girl in Be Happy, he has strived for diversity. The actor feels this variation is a sign of the times and not just limited to him. In a candid chat with HT, the actor opens up on the current state of cinema in India and how actors have benefitted from it. 

Ahead of the release of his new film, Be Happy, Abhishek spoke about how it is a good time to be an actor in India. "This is a very interesting time as an actor where you are getting films that are different from what has been done in the past.. You don't have to be just slotted in a particular image," the actor said.

Abhishek Bachchan says OTT changed the game

Reflecting on the evolution of cinema over the years, particularly influenced by the rise of OTT platforms, Abhishek elaborated on the factors contributing to this diversity: "Cinema undergoes transformations. The 1990s marked the introduction of satellite television, which provided Indian audiences with new exposure. Consequently, cinema adapted to become what we now refer to as NRI-friendly, as Western culture was interpreted through an Indian perspective. In the past decade, the emergence of digital streaming services has transformed the landscape, creating a global platform. A viewer of Be Happy can easily access The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel or a Tom Clancy series with just a click. For them, all content is on equal footing. This shift inevitably alters the themes and nature of the content produced."

Abhishek, recognized for his performances in recent films such as Dasvi and Ghoomer, further noted that the expectations for lead actors on OTT platforms differ significantly from those in traditional cinema, allowing for greater experimentation. "The demands for lead roles on OTT are distinct from those in theaters. On OTT, my goal is to ensure that you finish watching the film or series. How do I achieve that? By delivering an exceptional performance. If any aspect of the film fails to engage, viewers will simply move on. In a cinema setting, the dynamics change. There, the star factor comes into play. Am I willing to dress up, gather my family, travel, find parking, purchase tickets and snacks, and sit in a theater to watch a film? The requirements are different. On OTT, the focus is entirely on being authentic and true to the character and the material. Neither medium is inherently superior," he concluded.

‘Hrithik and Shahid are doing diverse work’

Abhishek highlighted the evolving landscape of cinema by referencing his contemporaries, Hrithik Roshan and Shahid Kapoor, noting that actors are now engaging in a broader range of roles due to increased audience acceptance. He remarked, "This shift is shaping the film industry. We are in an era where experimentation with diverse themes is encouraged. For instance, Hrithik took on a role in Super 30, which starkly contrasts with his established persona, while also participating in projects like War and Vikram Vedha, showcasing significant variety. Similarly, Shahid has delivered an impressive array of performances in films ranging from Haider to Deva. The upcoming generation is also exploring different cinematic styles and genres, reflecting a more open-minded audience." 

Abhishek's latest film, Be Happy, directed by Remo D'Souza, features Nora Fatehi and Nassar. The narrative centers on a father who, despite his reluctance, learns to dance to support his daughter's aspirations. The film is set to premiere on Amazon Prime Video on March 14.

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