Anurag Kashyap accepts audience doesn’t trust anything, says filmmakers don’t look up to reviews for validation

Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap, never one to mince words, has once again sparked conversation with his candid take on the state of the Hindi film industry. In a recent interview with Hindustan Times, Anurag reflected on the erosion of trust in film criticism. Anurag was part of a discussion around Stolen, a recently released film presented by a formidable roster of producers including Kiran Rao, Vikramaditya Motwane, Nikkhil Advani, and Anurag himself. During the conversation, Advani pointed to a troubling trend: a growing skepticism among audiences, fuelled by “paid reviews” and questionable industry practices.

“Audience doesn’t trust anything. It’s true!” Anurag agreed. But he went a step further, arguing that the cynicism isn’t limited to viewers. Even filmmakers, he says, are beginning to lose faith in a system they once relied on. “I remember a time when we got great reviews for our movies from critics that we looked up to for validation. It gave us personal joy. Now, it doesn’t matter. Gine chune 4-5 reviewer hain jinko respect karte hain (There are 4-5 critics who command respect),” he said.

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Anurag’s disillusionment isn’t just theoretical, it has informed a major life decision. A few months ago, he hinted at relocating to southern India. Now, that move is a reality.  Just a few weeks ago, he confirmed in an interview, “I’ve left Mumbai,” smiling as he mentioned that he had recently paid the first rent on his new home. While he didn’t reveal the exact location,  it is believed that he may have settled in Bangalore. “I want to stay away from film people. The industry has become too toxic. Everyone is chasing unrealistic targets, trying to make the next ₹500 and ₹800 crore film. The creative atmosphere is gone,” Anurag lamented.