In an exclusive conversation with Movified, filmmaker Kabir Khan opened up about the evolving landscape of Indian cinema—and the critical role audiences play in it. Known for helming powerful, story-led films like Bajrangi Bhaijaan and 83, Kabir voiced a pressing concern: content-driven cinema cannot thrive without stronger viewer support.
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“The truth is, the kind of stories that get told and the people who get cast are heavily shaped by what the audience chooses to watch,” he said. “If content-driven cinema is to grow, it needs stronger support from viewers—not just online appreciation, but actual box office backing.”
Kabir emphasized that while streaming platforms have opened doors for new narratives, theatrical films still need collective audience willpower to succeed. He also touched upon his growing interest in spotlighting stories from India’s North East—an underrepresented region with rich culture and history. “I would love to collaborate with storytellers and talent from the North East. There are so many stories waiting to be told, stories that the rest of the country needs to see and hear.”
His words are a call to action—urging audiences to become enablers of meaningful cinema, not just passive consumers.
