Bollywood star Nawazuddin Siddiqui is currently enjoying the success of his recently released film, Costao. The film has received positive reviews from critics and audiences alike for its gripping plotline.
Additionally, Nawazuddin delivered a powerful performance in the film, which was released on ZEE5. However, the actor has recently addressed the reason behind the audience ditching the experience of watching films in the theatres.
During a recent interview with Hindustan Times, the actor revealed that Bollywood’s star-driven culture is the reason behind the audience avoiding the theatres.
Nawazuddin Siddiqui said, “There are two kinds of actors – industry actors and public actors. Industry ke actor ko public itna nahi chahti hai uske bawajood bhi unki films aapke ghar ke darwaze mein lagi hoti hai. Aapko majboori mein dekhna padhta hai (Despite the public not loving the actors of the industry so much, their films are displayed at your doorstep. You are forced to watch them.)"
He further noted, “People want to see the public actors on screen, but unfortunately, their films don’t reach the masses.
He expressed his disappointment, noting that despite actors like Om Puri, Irrfan Khan, Naseeruddin Shah, and Manoj Bajpayee being among the country's greatest talents, none of them were featured in a big-budget film. He noted that although audiences would enthusiastically watch these actors, their films didn't reach a wider audience.
Nawazuddin continued, “When you look at the South film industry, those whose films earn Rs 500 or Rs 1000 crore at the box office are also actors. Unfortunately, those in our Bollywood who make movies worth Rs 100 crore, Rs 200 crore do not match the talent of the South at all. They are decorated like peacocks with songs, choreography and action, but even after that, there is no guarantee of giving a hit."
The actor criticized the industry for backing undeserving actors, questioning why they were making Rs 100 crore films with stars who couldn't guarantee box office success. He added, “The beauty of the South is that whoever is making a Rs 500 crore movie is also an actor.”
Directed by Sejal Shah, Costao also stars Priya Bapat, Kishore Kumar G., and Hussain Dalal in the pivotal roles. The film is set in the 1990s and follows customs officer Costao Fernandes, who becomes a legend in Goa due to his bravery and tactics. The film explores his personal and professional life as it unravels after he kills a powerful drug lord in self-defence.
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