Ever thought about what it’s like when the artist is bigger than the art.
That seems to be the case for Pathaan.
Shah Rukh Khan, King Khan is returning to the big screen in a lead role after 4 years… and a lot has happened in that time. In reel and his real life.
But his stardom hasn’t diminished.
YRF opted for a slightly unconventional promotion by launching the film’s trailer just days before its release, and I must say – it’s a slick trailer.
My point is, Pathaan is the perfect example of an artist being bigger than the art.
While the trailer is fabulous, but it does seem like something we’ve seen before.
An exiled spy who’s brought back to fight a highly destructive secret operation, an extremely gorgeous and flawless female lead fighting and dancing effortlessly, and an intensely cunning villain.
Sound familiar? Surely, yes!
But even then the hype around Pathaan is buzzing worldwide, with the most minimal film promotions of a teaser launch, 2 song launches, and 15 days advance booking overseas, and no pre-release interviews.
Why? – Because the artist is bigger than the art.
Shahrukh Khan’s stardom, reputation and influence are far greater than the film, which is what will pull the crowds. I think we are more excited to revel in the nostalgia of seeing a super star like him perform and witness the impact of The Shahrukh Khan again.
Dare I say, at this point, whether the film offers a fresh and unique story is almost secondary.
And I’m sure a lot of people will argue against it because art, stories, and characters are what makes an artist. It’s the foundation they’re built on. But creative beings like Shah Rukh Khan bring communities together with joy, interaction, inspiration, and entertainment.
Thanks.