Acclaimed filmmaker Imtiaz Ali has revealed that he remains largely unaffected by social media commentary on his work, suggesting that many online critics do not actually watch films in theatres. The director made these remarks during a recent conversation about his forthcoming project Main Vaapas Aunga.
Known for romantic dramas such as Jab We Met and Rockstar, Ali has built a reputation for exploring complex emotional narratives on screen. His latest comments reflect a growing sentiment among Indian filmmakers about the disconnect between online discourse and actual cinema attendance, particularly as the industry grapples with changing audience patterns post-pandemic.
The director also touched upon the enduring appeal of romance in Indian cinema, a genre that has resonated strongly with audiences across regions including Bihar and other Hindi-speaking states. Despite the rise of action-heavy blockbusters and content-driven OTT platforms, romantic films continue to find devoted audiences in single-screen theatres and multiplexes alike.
Ali's stance highlights an ongoing debate within Bollywood about the relevance of social media reactions versus box office performance. As digital platforms amplify diverse voices, filmmakers are increasingly evaluating which feedback genuinely reflects their core audience's preferences. Main Vaapas Aunga is expected to test these dynamics when it releases in cinemas.