Stars, undoubtedly, serve as the attraction for the initial audience. However, it is ultimately the story and the quality of the filmmaking that determine the movie’s success.
The “perception value” of a film when viewed on a smaller screen, juxtaposed with its performance in theatres, gives us an understanding of the what may do well in either arena.
Then there’s the aspect of hype. Consider the recent, Maharaja (2024). It features a standout performance by Vijay Sethupathi but also delves into violent themes like rape and revenge.
Crime thrillers and horror comedies (where sometimes the comedy itself can be horrifying) should receive appropriate certification based on their level of violence and adult content.
In Telugu, Mahesh Babu’s film, Guntur Kaaram (2024), which reportedly grossed over ₹500 crore in theatres, did not resonate well when it became available on Netflix.
Films such as Kannur Squad (2023), Bramayugam (2024), and more have achieved success in both theatres and on OTT due to a harmonious blend of star power and quality storytelling.
Sequels and re-releases often find success on OTT platforms (such as Indian 2, scheduled for release on 12 July, with a runtime close to three hours) due to their nostalgic appeal.