Manoj Bajpayee says 'mainstream films don't depend on talent'
30 Aug 2025

Veteran actor Manoj Bajpayee has called OTT platforms a "blessing" for actors.

Speaking to ANI, he said that unlike mainstream cinema, OTT content is driven by storytelling and talent rather than box office success.

"Films don't depend on talent in India, sadly...most of the mainstream films don't depend on talent. They depend on the box office," he said.

'You need good story, talent on OTT'
Talent vs. box office

Bajpayee further elaborated on this disparity, stating that in mainstream cinema, talent often takes a backseat to box office performance.

"If the box office is good, then if the film is not of good quality...everyone gets work."

"But when it comes to casting, talent is not the biggest criterion."

He added that on OTT platforms, "you need a good story and good talent."

Bajpayee describes himself as 'beneficiary' of OTT
Career shift

Bajpayee, has made a mark in the OTT space with movies and shows such as Gulmohar, The Family Man, and Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai.

He said that his journey in the digital medium has been surprising and rewarding.

"Since I did Family Man till now...this has completely surprised me."

"And I am one of the many beneficiaries of it," he added.

His thoughts on theatrical format
Theatrical format

Bajpayee also shared his thoughts on the theatrical format, stating that movies in this space are not just about acting but also involve promotions to maximize ticket sales.

He said, "In the theaters, the struggle for acting does not end after the work is done... I have to help the producer for it to be released well."

He added that OTT has filled a void by offering versatile script choices.

Bajpayee will be seen in 'Inspector Zende' next
New release

Bajpayee will next be seen in the Netflix movie Inspector Zende, opposite Jim Sarbh.

The movie, inspired by a true story, is directed by Chinmay Mandlekar and produced by Jay Shewakramani and Om Raut.

In the movie, Bajpayee plays a sharp-witted inspector who is on a mission to catch an international criminal.

It will premiere on Netflix on September 5.