David Dhawan Challenges OTT Films, Says Theaters Still Hold Magic

Mumbai, 14th August 2024: Renowned Bollywood director David Dhawan, in a recent interview, took a firm stand on the ongoing debate between Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms and traditional theater releases. Dhawan, known for his string of successful comedy films, questioned the content on OTT platforms and emphasized the irreplaceable magic of watching films in theaters. He challenged filmmakers to “come to theaters and show your worth,” while discussing the impact of OTT platforms on the cinema industry. Dhawan’s comments come amid speculation about his upcoming romantic comedy featuring his son, Varun Dhawan, which is rumored for an October 2025 release.

During the interview with Arbaaz Khan, Dhawan shared his thoughts on the growing popularity of OTT platforms, acknowledging that they provide a safe space for filmmakers where they don’t face the pressures of media scrutiny and box office results. However, he argued that this convenience comes at the cost of the unique experience that only theaters can offer. “The magic of watching a film in theaters is not over yet,” Dhawan asserted, emphasizing that the energy and excitement of a theater release cannot be replicated by any digital platform.

Despite his strong preference for theaters, Dhawan’s last film, “Coolie No. 1”, was released on Amazon Prime Video during the pandemic, a move forced by circumstances. He remains optimistic about the future of cinema, urging filmmakers to continue creating content that draws audiences back to theaters.

As for his upcoming project, Dhawan is reportedly working on a romantic comedy titled “Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai”, starring his son Varun Dhawan. While the official announcement is still pending, the film is expected to hit theaters in October 2025, signaling Dhawan’s continued commitment to the traditional cinematic experience.