Actor Randeep Hooda recently opened up about Bollywood's increasing tendency to follow trends rather than focus on originality. Speaking at a recent event in Delhi, Randeep stated that the Hindi film industry often prioritises what is commercially successful over innovation.
"I would bring it down to bhed chaal (herd mentality). If one thing works, then similar things start getting made. Sabko wahi banaana hai. Ab sabko Stree ke baad horror comedy banaana hai (Everyone wants to make the same thing. After Stree, now everyone wants to make horror comedies). As an actor, I don’t think that should be the parameter," Randeep said while speaking at The Indian Express' Expresso event.
The actor-director also pointed out that this mindset is contributing to a crisis in the industry.
Beyond the issue of repetitive storytelling, he said he believes that filmmaking has become more mechanical, with little space for creative exploration. "There’s a lot of film execution happening now, not filmmaking. We have isolated ourselves in the ivory tower a little. There's little room for experimentation," he explained.
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While he sees potential in digital platforms as a space for more diverse storytelling, Randeep stated that OTT platforms are also increasingly driven by business interests. "Experimentation is only possible on OTT platforms now. Although, I think they are also looking for that kind of cinema because they want more audience and subscriptions. It’s a business-driven thing," he said.
"There needs to be somebody who puts down their foot. Hopefully, that’s me, because I want to do both - experiment with content and choose subjects that connect with a larger audience," he added during the conversation.
Meanwhile, on the work front, Randeep will next be seen in the film Jaat with Sunny Deol. Directed by Gopichand Malineni, the film is all set to hit the big screens on April 10, 2025. It also stars Viineet Kumar Siingh, Regena Cassandrra and Saiyami Kher.
Randeep will also be seen in the American action-adventure comedy film Matchbox.
