Farhan Akhtar speaks up on his flops: Can't predict what audience wants

Farhan Akhtar

Farhan Akhtar

With commercial successes like Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011), Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013) and Dil Dhadakne Do (2015) in his repertoire, Farhan Akhtar had acquired the image of a bankable actor in the fraternity. However, a string of debacles, including Wazir (2016) and Rock On 2 (2016), in the successive year chipped away at some of his importance.

While actors are flustered when their films fail to set box-office registers ringing, Akhtar, unfazed with the response to his past two outings, says the fate of a film cannot be predicted.

In the midst of promotions for his forthcoming prison drama, Lucknow Central, the actor-filmmaker says, "I don't think anyone can predict what the audience wants. If that was possible, there would be no flops. I don't revisit a film."

For the actor, a movie's failure provides scope for learning, provided the makers are given time to dissociate from the project and revisit it with a fresh perspective.

"Every actor takes time to understand why the film didn't connect with the audience. Normally, when a film releases and fails to perform, those working on it are too close to the project to have an opinion on its failure. Hence, we talk to our friends and family to get their perspective."

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