Ajay Devgn: With OTT coming in, pressure has gone up as we have a new generation of great actors

Ajay Devgn is currently gearing up for the release of his upcoming directorial, Runway 34. The actor plays the leading role in the film alongside Amitabh Bachchan, Rakul Preet Singh, and Boman Irani. Previously, the actor was seen in special appearances in the recent blockbusters Sooryavanshi, Gangubai Kathiawadi and RRR. Bhuj: The Pride of India, which directly premiered on Disney+ Hotstar, was Devgn's last film as a leading hero. 

During a recent interaction with The Times of India, the actor-filmmaker was quizzed about whether he had been aware that there was a cloud of doubt among many throughout the pandemic as to whether theatres would be able to recover. 

which Devgn revealed that he was never afraid. The actor understands that OTT is here to stay, but the theatrical experience is unique and cannot be replaced. The difference today is that a film like Runway 34 must be a theatrical experience. Some films have compelling stories, and one may want to watch them on OTT. So, to attract audiences to the theatres, one must begin producing films that will provide them with a theatrical experience. Devgn went on to say that today, though, things have changed.

The Singham star was asked if he believes that the rise of OTT has altered the dynamics of acting and how it has been viewed for decades. He was further quizzed if it had taken some of the strain off performers who are constantly under pressure to perform at the box office.

Devgn went on to say that the stress hasn't subsided. It was never about acquiring employment because, whether one's films were successful or not, there was always work. It's all about how one keeps their quality up, and there will always be pressure. With the introduction of OTT, the pressure has increased as there's a new generation of excellent actors. It's not about competing with them or becoming famous, but seeing them perform so brilliantly makes one want to pull up their socks. Thus, Devgn believes it's a positive thing. 

He shares that one should move with the times if they rise to the occasion; else, we will become obsolete. They can't move forward if they sit back and say, "I know how to do this and I know everything." Devgn also said that one must observe how the newer performers perform, and they arrive quite well-prepared. 

When the actor first entered the industry, he was unprepared. The thinking has shifted in recent years, and this generation is a lot more advanced. What they thought at the age of 18 is what the current generation is thinking at the age of ten. Sensibilities have shifted, and audiences are now more exposed to international content than ever before, so one can't afford to make a mistake with the quality of their content.

Runway 34 is slated for release on April 29, 2022.