David Dhawan on Online Trolling: ‘Theatrical Audiences Matter More’
In an exclusive interview, David Dhawan, a renowned Bollywood director, sheds light on the growing phenomenon of online trolling and its implications for the entertainment industry. With his characteristic candor, Dhawan addresses the power of social media criticism and its potential to influence public perception.
He emphasizes that anyone with a phone can now voice their opinions, even without watching the film. However, Dhawan's faith lies in the discerning audience that experiences the movie in theaters. He believes that a film's success ultimately rests on its quality and the response of these theatrical viewers.
When asked about his son, Varun Dhawan, and the constant comparisons with iconic actors like Govinda and Salman Khan, David Dhawan highlights the importance of discipline and discernment. He mentions that Varun is now more selective in choosing roles, focusing on bringing something new to each project. This approach, according to Dhawan, is crucial in an industry where criticism and trolling are commonplace.
The director also points out that trolling is not a new phenomenon, recalling the intense scrutiny Salman Khan faced earlier in his career. Despite this, Salman's talent and resilience have made him an industry icon. Dhawan's comments offer a nuanced perspective on the evolving relationship between audiences and actors in the digital age, where online engagement is both a challenge and an opportunity.
With his upcoming film, 'Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai,' set to release on June 5, David Dhawan continues to showcase his mastery of the craft. The film features Varun Dhawan, Mrunal Thakur, and Pooja Hegde in lead roles, promising a captivating cinematic experience.
