Kareena Kapoor Khan on Breaking Gender Barriers in Bollywood Following Success of “Crew”

News Mania desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/6th May 2024

Kareena Kapoor Khan, renowned Bollywood actor, asserts that the box office triumph of her latest release, “Crew,” signifies a pivotal moment in the industry’s trajectory towards gender equality. She expresses satisfaction in the film’s ability to shatter preconceived notions and stereotypes, particularly regarding the viability of women-led projects. Starring alongside Tabu and Kriti Sanon, “Crew” revolves around the narrative of three air hostesses navigating through adversity after their airline undergoes financial turmoil. Directed by Rajesh A Krishnan, the film made its cinematic debut on March 29 and has achieved remarkable success, amassing over Rs 150 crore in ticket sales.

Kareena Kapoor Khan is resolute in her commitment to align herself with projects that challenge conventional norms, underscoring her dedication to advocating for gender equality within the film industry. She views “Crew” as a catalyst for change, heralding a new era where women are not merely confined to supporting roles but are instead positioned as the driving force behind compelling narratives. The film’s success is emblematic of a broader societal shift towards inclusivity and representation, where gender bias is gradually eroded in favor of meritocracy.

“Crew” is a testament to the collaborative efforts of its ensemble cast and crew, who collectively imbued the project with authenticity and depth. Produced by industry stalwarts such as Ekta Kapoor, Rhea Kapoor, Anil Kapoor, and Digvijay Purohit, the film underscores the importance of diverse perspectives in shaping cinematic experiences. Principal photography spanned from March 2023 to February 2024, with filming locations ranging from bustling metropolises like Mumbai to picturesque locales in Goa and Abu Dhabi.

From its inception, “Crew” was poised to challenge conventions and defy expectations. Announced in November 2022, the film embarked on a transformative journey, culminating in its theatrical release in March 2024. Despite the inherent challenges associated with production, the team remained steadfast in their commitment to delivering a groundbreaking cinematic experience. The positive reception from critics and audiences alike served as validation for their efforts, affirming the importance of amplifying diverse voices in mainstream media.

Upon its release, “Crew” garnered widespread acclaim for its innovative storytelling and compelling performances. Critics lauded its refreshing take on the heist comedy genre, praising the chemistry between the leading actors and the film’s seamless blend of humor and intrigue. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an impressive approval rating of 64%, underscoring its universal appeal and resonance with viewers of all demographics.

The film’s commercial success further solidifies its status as a trailblazer in the realm of women-led cinema. On its opening day, “Crew” raked in an impressive Rs 10.28 crore at the domestic box office, marking a significant milestone for female-driven narratives in Bollywood. Moreover, its global box office gross of Rs 20.07 crore solidified its position as the highest opening day grosser for a Hindi female-led film on an international scale.

In essence, “Crew” transcends the confines of traditional gender roles, offering a poignant commentary on the resilience and strength of women in the face of adversity. Through its captivating narrative and stellar performances, the film ignites a conversation surrounding gender equality and representation in the film industry. As audiences continue to flock to theaters to witness the groundbreaking tale unfold, “Crew” stands as a testament to the transformative power of cinema in challenging societal norms and fostering inclusivity.