Kanika Dhillon Responds to the Mixed Reviews of Do Patti

The Indian film industry has always been a fertile ground for creative stories, yet they can often elicit a polarizing response from audiences and critics alike. Recently, the film Do Patti, featuring talented actresses Kajol and Kriti Sanon, found itself at the epicenter of criticism following its release on Netflix. With themes revolving around domestic abuse and childhood trauma, it has sparked a conversation that many have weighed in on, including its writer and co-producer, Kanika Dhillon.

Kanika Dhillon shares insights on her recent film’s reception and more.

Setting the Stage: A Delicate Subject

In an exclusive interview, Kanika addressed the backlash she received regarding the film’s portrayal of sensitive topics. Critics have slammed its handling of abuse, questioning its integrity and representation, as some demanded a trigger warning before the film’s impactful scenes. In an era where viewer sensitivity is paramount, this debate raises essential questions about how filmmakers convey messages that matter.

Kanika shared her rationale behind deliberately holding back certain subject details in the trailer, stating, “When you start with a message outright, the audience somehow tends to view it as something that isn’t entertaining.” This perspective aligns with a growing trend where the expectations of viewers often clash with the ambitious storytelling desires of filmmakers.

An Open Mind is Key

Despite the reviews that emerged, Kanika was quick to express that a significant portion of the audience has resonated positively with her film. “I’ll do whatever it takes to get my film across to them so that they watch it and then see the message in it,” she proclaimed. The last portion of Do Patti, which delves deeper into emotional storytelling, was notably praised by viewers, showcasing the film’s potential impact when given a chance.

This raises an interesting observation about how audiences engage with stories that are raw and emotionally charged. My own experience underscores this sentiment; I’ve often found that my initial skepticism about a film can rapidly change if given the opportunity to engage with deeper narratives that underline real human experiences.

The essence of storytelling lies in its ability to connect.

Tolerance for Criticism: A Tough Balancing Act

Reflecting on the nature of reviews in today’s digital world, Kanika pointed out the challenges many creators face from online commentary. “Anybody and everybody can be a reviewer today,” she critiques. This sentiment resonates with many artists who find themselves inundated with unchecked opinions, often categorized more as trolling than constructive criticism. She emphasized,

“When they start criticizing through personal attacks at the individual rather than the film, then they become trolls.”

Transforming Negativity into Support

Kanika’s resilience shines through as she recounts a valuable lesson learned from the release of Haseen Dillruba, which faced its own share of critical backlash, yet emerged as a significant success. “If I was listening to the noise made by these trolls under the garb of reviewers, I wouldn’t have been able to do my job,” she stated.

Such strength is essential within the artistic community, where every piece of creative work can invariably face scrutiny - a phenomenon I’ve witnessed in my own endeavors. The ability to discern genuine critique from mere trolling is an invaluable skill, one that nurtures both artistic growth and personal well-being.

The Path Ahead for Do Patti

In the wake of mixed reviews, it’s pertinent to acknowledge the dialogue sparked by Do Patti. The film not only serves as an entertainment piece but also as a means to confront uncomfortable realities. Kanika’s unwavering commitment to art that pushes boundaries is precisely the type of initiative that should fuel our industry’s evolution. As viewers, we ought to cultivate open minds and bodies that engage with deeply woven narratives rather than succumb to the siren call of quick judgements.

In conclusion, Do Patti exemplifies that the journey of art is never straightforward. With critics on one side and fans on the other, what truly matters is the conversation between these two worlds. Just like Kanika Dhillon insists that her work merits thoughtful viewing and discussion, we too must engage with films in a manner that transcends mere surface-level enjoyment. As cinema continues to evolve, we must be willing to embrace content that challenges and enlightens us.