Actor Sharman Joshi has welcomed the growing scrutiny audiences bring to films, saying viewers are now demanding more from cinema in terms of production, direction and storytelling. The 3 Idiots actor said the evolution of audiences has created a more challenging environment for filmmakers and performers, but described the change as positive for the industry. “I appreciate the fact that the audiences are much more critical. From the production value and direction to the story, which is the backbone of everything, they are demanding more; it is wonderful and exciting,” Sharman said.

The actor said audiences have greater exposure to international cinema, particularly through OTT platforms, giving them more choices in the kind of entertainment they consume. According to Sharman, this has raised expectations from creative professionals and pushed actors and filmmakers to improve their work. He said the wider access to world cinema has created a “huge melting pot” of stories and influences, requiring Indian creators to find their own space while continuing to tell stories that connect with viewers.

Sharman also said the changing expectations of audiences have influenced the kind of projects being offered to him in recent times. He described the scripts he has been receiving as “special” in terms of their stories and said this was not the case earlier to the same extent. The actor added that the quality of the recent offers has made it difficult for him to turn projects down. “Whichever offer is coming to me, it is just so difficult to say no to it because it’s all so in place,” he said.

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The actor also spoke about his Dhol co-star Kunal Kemmu, who has since expanded his career into writing and directing. Sharman described Kemmu as a talented actor and said he was impressed by his work as a writer. Reflecting on their time together during Dhol, Sharman said he had not been aware of Kemmu's interest or potential in writing at the time. He recalled that the actors were younger then and said he did not know whether Kemmu had already been considering writing.

Sharman and Kemmu are set to reunite in Rohit Shetty's Golmaal 5, bringing the actor back into the comedy franchise alongside Ajay Devgn after a long gap. Sharman, who has been associated with the earlier films in the franchise, remained tight-lipped about details of the upcoming project. However, he indicated that audiences could expect a familiar level of entertainment from the film and assured fans that they would not be disappointed.

The actor's comments come at a time when the Indian film industry continues to navigate the changing viewing habits created by theatrical releases, streaming platforms and greater access to international content. Sharman said the increased expectations from audiences ultimately encourage actors and other creative professionals to raise their standards. With Golmaal 5 marking his return to the franchise, he will once again work with Rohit Shetty and Ajay Devgn, while audiences await further details about the next instalment.

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