Indian films have shifted focus from critic reviews to opening weekend box office collections, but many filmmakers feel this is unfair without context. Filmmakers Zoya Akhtar and Reema Kagti spoke out about the issue, citing the disparity between big-budget tentpole films and smaller indie films. Reema Kagti noted that big films are often celebrated for grossing ₹200 crore without mentioning their ₹500 crore budgets. She believes that films are art and their value cannot be solely measured by money.
Other industry members have also expressed concerns about the emphasis on box office collections. Actor Manoj Bajpayee warned that this focus could ultimately harm the industry, while Telugu star Ram Charan emphasized that box office numbers are important but not the only factor. Zoya and Reema's own film, Shape of Momo, recently released in theatres, highlighting the need for a more nuanced approach to evaluating films.
