'Everyone wants to make risk-free films': Manoj Bajpayee on theatrical releases

Updated On: 06 September, 2025 06:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent

Manoj Bajpayee opens up about the theatrical and OTT releases of films in recent times. He revealed that actors, even of theatrically released films, do not get paid because everyone wants to make risk-free films

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Manoj Bajpayee

Manoj Bajpayee`s recent project, Inspector Zende, is already building buzz with its gripping premise. The thriller revolves around the disturbing psyche of serial killer Carl Bhojraj, played by Jim Sarbh, and the intense cat-and-mouse chase led by Inspector Zende, essayed by Manoj Bajpayee.

Manoj Bajpayee on theatrical releases

Given the increasing conversation around streaming versus theatrical cinema, an interesting point came up when Bajpayee appeared on The Right Angle With Sonal Kalra Season 2. When asked whether OTT actors, who enjoy popularity equal to big-screen stars, are being paid equally, Manoj jokingly said, “I don’t get the money.” He then elaborated further, "However, today, actors are also not getting paid, as they are being told that it’s risky to put in the money and there is a budget constraint. Even the ones who are releasing films in theatres are not getting paid, everybody wants to make this a risk-free project”

Bajpayee’s candid remarks highlight the larger trend in Bollywood where financial caution often overshadows creative risk-taking, and where studios are preferring to hedge their bets rather than invest in bold, unconventional stories.

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