THE FILMY EX FACTOR

HT PHOTO Get set to watch real-life ex-couples share a crackling chemistry on reel this year

What happens breakup ke baad in Bollywood? You do a film together. The industry is no stranger to signing exes as the lead pair in films, and the trend continues in 2017 with projects such as Jagga Jasoos, Tiger Zinda Hai, OK Jaanu and Badrinath Ki Dulhaniya.

Filmmaker Onir says no one plans a film thinking that the cast should be an ex-couple. “There are a limited number of actors, so filmmakers don’t have many options. If a pair’s chemistry was a hit, people would love to watch them again… But hats off to those who manage. If I have to direct exes, I’d find it very difficult.”

Filmmaker Homi Adajania adds there’s nothing good or bad in the concept. “Actors are thorough professionals, so it shouldn’t make any difference on the work front. Besides, it’s an added bonus as they can convincingly pretend that nothing is awkward, I guess.”

Relationship expert Gitanjali Sharma says comfort depends on the cause of the split. “The initial internal struggle can pass depending upon whether it was a messy or amicable separation. Their equation might’ve changed, but they may not repent the time spent together.”

Here’s the big question. Does this pairing affect box-office numbers? Trade analyst Komal Nahta says, “The curiosity factor and craze among fans does translate into collections to some extent, but largely, it’s the content that counts.”