The emergence of streaming has led many to call this time in Indian storytelling the ‘golden age’ for actors. Many actors, who would not get sizable roles in films, are now leading web series and consequently films. Actors have taken precedence over stars on OTT, emboldening this claim.
But Zeeshan Ayyub , who has worked on both streaming and in films, says this approach is myopic.
There are 3-4 patterns. The actor is currently awaiting the release of his web series, Hunkkaar, which premieres on JioHotstar . He chats with Hindustan Times ahead of the release. People call me cynical when I say this, but we are finding a new star system here (on streaming), too. That is our habit. Our problem is that we are into hero worship. So we create stars. Firstly, it should be a thriller. Otherwise, it should be the story of a village. Either the police are the hero, catching a thief. Or the thief is the hero, evading the police,” he tells us.
Talking about the perception that there were fewer good roles before streaming, he says, “There were good roles written earlier, too. The actor says the spectre of tropes and formulas is ruling the streaming scene in India currently. “Look at what works (on OTT) in today’s time.
