Q&A WITH FARHAN AKHTAR
Farhan Akhtar plays a boxer in Toofaan, a new Amazon Prime release. Even though the pandemic has left Bollywood on the ropes, the actor is confident that films haven’t lost their punch
What has been the impact of the pandemic on the industry?
I hope what these past 18 months have done is change the taste of the audience. OTT makes you look past the razzmatazz, the glitz and glamour. It makes you appreciate storytelling for what it is. In theatres, you have a captive audience, but at home, you lose the person if the content is not good.
Having been acquainted with boxing, will you be watching it at the Tokyo Olympics?
I am rooting for all nine [Olympic-bound] boxers of the Indian contingent. We have been doing well in the international circuit. We, of course, have our very own Mary Kom, who we all hope wins.
Rocky, Creed, Mary Kom...what is it about boxing that makes it a favourite sport for cinematic treatment? Any sport is a great analogy for life. With boxing, it is usually about a rise and fall, or a fall and rise—which is inspirational to witness. Most boxers are not from affluent backgrounds. When you see that the only thing they can use is their own body to improve their lot in life, there is something primeval and voyeuristic about it. How much pain can you take to make a better life for yourself?
We have seen web series enjoy huge popularity but a film hasn’t yet resonated as much on digital. Is it possible for films to have a similar impact?
I think if something speaks to you or moves you, it will do so regardless of where you consume it. You make films that hopefully reflect the time that you live in and you also make films that influence the time you live in. Whether it’s a long format show or a film, it will work as long as it speaks to you.