Riteish Deshmukh On OTT Platforms: ‘They’ve Become Very Choosy’

Actor Riteish Deshmukh has shared his thoughts on the evolving landscape of OTT platforms, highlighting both opportunities and challenges for actors. Deshmukh, known for his roles in OTT films such as Kakuda (2024), Pill (2024), and Plan A Plan B (2022), notes that while digital platforms offer a wider range of roles, they have become increasingly selective.

Riteish Deshmukh emphasizes that OTT platforms allow actors to explore diverse roles and showcase their versatility. However, he points out that opportunities are limited by the platforms’ stringent selection criteria. “The digital space offers more variety, but we are only as good as the opportunities we receive,” he explains. He adds that platforms have become very discerning, seeking films that promise to attract viewers. “It’s not easy for films to be accepted now. Platforms need films that will perform well,” he says.

Deshmukh further elaborates on the financial dynamics of film production. “There are no free lunches in life,” he states. “Every film, whether for OTT or theaters, involves economics. Platforms need to see a return on their investment. If a film doesn’t perform, they will use that data to make future decisions,” he adds. This financial reality means that actors can face tough decisions if their films fail to attract an audience.

Discussing the role of filmmakers, Deshmukh identifies two types: those who cast actors based on the script and those who tailor scripts to fit specific actors. He praises the latter approach, noting that films crafted with a specific cast in mind are more likely to endure. “The films that stand the test of time are those where effort has been put into aligning the script with the right cast,” he says.

Deshmukh also reflects on the impact of the pandemic on film preferences. He mentions that while there was initial uncertainty about what types of films would succeed, content-driven films like Munjya have defied expectations and performed well despite minimal promotion.

On a personal note, Riteish Deshmukh discusses his own approach to choosing projects, emphasizing the importance of taking a leap of faith. “Whether for OTT or theatrical releases, sometimes you have to trust the director and script, even if it feels like a risk,” he says. He expresses confidence in his recent projects, such as Kakuda and Pill, where he embraced roles that were different from his previous work.

In conclusion, Deshmukh’s insights reveal both the potential and the challenges of working in the OTT space. His experiences underscore the need for actors to adapt and navigate the evolving demands of the digital entertainment industry.