Dubai: Actor Asif Ali revealed that his children have not watched any of his recent films in theatres. none of his films released between 2024 and 2025 appealed to them, and they even questioned why he did not act in the superhit film Lokah . Asif Ali noted that the preferences of the younger generation are very different today.
He was speaking at a press conference in Dubai as part of the promotions for his new film Mirage.
“No filmmaker can guarantee making films that only please the audience. It was during a period without hits that Jeethu Joseph called me for Kooman. That film became a gear shift in my career. After three years, I am once again acting in a Jeethu Joseph film. Naturally, expectations are high. Malayalam cinema is now producing films that can compete with any industry, though audience tastes have changed. That’s why films that don’t succeed in theatres often get a fresh reception on OTT platforms. People who spend time on Instagram and YouTube don’t usually enjoy the kind of ‘lag’ in movies in theatres,” Asif Ali explained.
Meanwhile, director Jeethu Joseph said he is still waiting for a story worthy of offering Mammootty. “I’ve narrated stories to him before. He liked Drishyam, but at that time he was doing several father roles, so he asked me to wait three years. Later, scheduling conflicts came up. Even so, he has a lot of affection for me and always enquires about my next project. I truly wish to work with him, and efforts are on. I’m not interested in competing for box office numbers in crores. Of course, if a film makes ₹100 crore, that’s a joy. Earlier, such numbers were heard only in Bollywood. When Drishyam crossed ₹50 crore, it was overwhelming. Films designed only for box office records may deliver theatre experience, but they may not always be accepted on OTT. Sarkeet and Level Cross were good films, but audiences were reluctant to watch them in theatres. Similarly, some comedy films, too, are enjoyable only with a crowd,” said the ace director.
Meanwhile, actor Hakkim Shah added that he had long wanted to work with Jeethu Joseph, while Hanna Reji Koshy said her role in the film is one of the best she has done. Producers Mukesh R. Mehta and Kannan Ravi were also present. Mirage will hit theatres on September 19.