Sriram Raghavan Reflects on Merry Christmas’ Box Office Reception: Lessons Learned and Risks Taken
Navigating Box Office Waters
Despite a positive audience reception, Sriram Raghavan’s film Merry Christmas, starring Katrina Kaif and Vijay Sethupathi, faced a disappointing box office outcome. Raghavan, known for his penchant for experimental narratives, shares his thoughts on the film’s reception and the industry’s unpredictable nature.
Learning from Every Venture
In a candid interview with Hindustan Times, Raghavan emphasizes the continuous learning process in filmmaking. Drawing parallels to his acclaimed work Andhadhun, he acknowledges that each project offers new lessons and challenges, regardless of past successes.
Embracing Risk and Experimentation
Raghavan credits the success of Andhadhun for emboldening him to explore riskier and experimental storytelling in Merry Christmas. While he anticipated mixed reactions due to the film’s unconventional narrative, he remained hopeful that it would resonate with audiences, albeit in a different manner than his previous hit.
Accepting the Outcome
Despite the subdued response at the box office, Raghavan maintains a pragmatic outlook. He acknowledges that Merry Christmas may not have garnered the same widespread acclaim as Andhadhun, but he values the creative journey and the opportunity to push boundaries within the thriller genre.
Exploring Neo-Noir Terrain
Merry Christmas stands as an Indian adaptation of Frédéric Dard’s novel Le Monte-charge (Bird in a Cage), offering a neo-noir mystery thriller experience. With a talented ensemble cast, including Radhika Apte, Sanjay Kapoor, and Vinay Pathak, the film’s artistic merit transcends its commercial reception, sparking dialogue and critical reflection.
