IC 814, Heeramandi to Bambai Meri Jaan, Gullak: What's the appeal of ensembles on OTT?

From the retro era with films like Sholay (1975) and Amar Akbar Anthony (1977) to the onset of the new millenium with Hum Saath-Saath Hain (1999), and Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001) ensemble films used to be the big money makes on the ticket counters. However, in recent years, these big films have dwindled. But what films gave up, OTT made its USP as ensemble shows became the highlight of the digital screen, as shows like Delhi Crime , Jubilee , City Of Dreams , Heeramandi and IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack becoming big successes.

While the audience loves having a feast of talent on screen, what makes actors say yes to them? A learning opportunity The biggest plus point for any actor in an ensemble is the opportunity of getting to learn from the talent around them. “Because of the give and take, the stories become livelier. It helps an artiste as everyone comes from a different background and culture and it makes the environment more interesting,” says actor Geetanjali Kulkarni who has worked in Gullak .

Hush Hush , Bambai Meri Jaan and Tandav actor Kritika Kamra insists that ensembles keep her on her toes. “It brings the challenge of keeping up and creating something that sets you apart. At the same it gives you an opportunity to be a part of something that’s bigger in scale and ambition.

It also requires you to be secure and confident and always prioritise the story above your own arc,” she says. Room for development Akshay Oberoi , who has been a part of Inside Edg.