'Felt bad': Zoya says 'The Archies' cast was 'almost bullied'
What's the story
Filmmaker Zoya Akhtar has defended the young actors of her film, The Archies, who were trolled online for their performances.
The movie marked the acting debuts of three star kids: Agastya Nanda (Amitabh Bachchan's grandson), Suhana Khan (Shah Rukh Khan's daughter), and Khushi Kapoor (Sridevi's younger daughter).
After its 2023 release, the trio was subjected to immense criticism on social media.
Director's stance
'I picked them, gave them roles'
Speaking on Komal Nahta's Game Changers podcast, Akhtar opened up about the brutal treatment meted out to her cast.
She said, "I think the audience is harsh with certain newcomers, not with all newcomers."
The director further stressed her part in their performances saying, "I felt bad when this happened because they listened to me. I auditioned them, I picked them, gave them roles... So it's me."
Statement
'They did what I asked them to do'
Akhtar further said, "I workshopped them, shot them, and I okayed the take. So it's me. They did what I asked them to do."
"I didn't like the fact that they were almost being bullied. It wasn't nice. It's my responsibility."
The Archies was released on Netflix on November 22, 2023, and also starred Mihir Ahuja, Dot, Vedang Raina, and Yuvraj Menda.
Suggested changes
Kapoor suggested changes to 'The Archies's marketing strategy
Earlier this month, Kapoor hinted at some changes in the film's post-production in an interview with The Indian Express.
She said, "Probably...marketing-wise, it had to be made clear that the film is catering to a younger audience."
"In fact, the people who enjoyed it the most were the ones who were below the age of 16. Plus, I feel like everything doesn't have to be made for everyone."