In a fascinating turn of events, director Farah Khan's 2010 film 'Tees Maar Khan', featuring Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif, has undergone a remarkable image transformation. Initially deemed a commercial disappointment, the movie has now secured an unexpected legacy as a beloved cult classic, particularly resonating with a younger generation of viewers.
From Box Office Disappointment to Pop Culture Staple
Despite its underwhelming performance at the time of release, 'Tees Maar Khan' has gradually gained appreciation over the years. What was once criticized has now cemented its place as a pop culture staple, with its dialogues and scenes finding new life on social media and among Gen Z audiences. Farah Khan herself has frequently acknowledged this significant shift in the film's public perception.
A Humorous Exchange Highlights the Generational Divide
The subject recently resurfaced during Farah Khan's conversation with popular YouTuber Purav Jha, known for 'The Traitor'. The interaction took an amusing turn when Farah, referencing her earlier hit 'Main Hoon Na', asked Purav how old he was when that Shah Rukh Khan-starrer released. When he confirmed he was likely just three years old, she followed up by asking if he had seen 'Tees Maar Khan'.
Purav's enthusiastic reply, "Arey yaar, kya movie hai!" (Oh man, what a movie!), visibly amused the filmmaker. Reacting with humor, Farah Khan said, "Highlight hai yaar. Arey yaar, tum log kahan the jab picture release hui thi? Meri band baja ke rakh di thi sabne." (It's a highlight, man. Where were you all when the film released? Everyone had completely trashed me back then.) This exchange perfectly encapsulated the film's journey from critical failure to generational favorite.
Farah Khan Reflects on the Industry's Reaction
Earlier this year, Farah Khan opened up about the film's aftermath and the Bollywood industry's reaction to its box office failure. In a YouTube vlog filmed at producer Jackky Bhagnani and actor Rakul Preet Singh's home, she shared insightful observations.
"Tees Maar Khan is a legend with Gen Z," she remarked. "They don't care for my other films. They think that (Tees Maar Khan) is the one." She provided a stark contrast by recalling the atmosphere during the film's release, stating, "I remember during Tees Maar Khan’s release, there was literally a celebration in the film industry. People whom I have worked with were like, 'Abhi aayi na line par.'"
She added a pointed commentary on industry dynamics, noting, "In our industry, more than being happy for your success, people are happy for other people’s failure." This reflection highlights the often-cutthroat nature of show business, making the film's eventual redemption all the more sweet for its creator.
The story of 'Tees Maar Khan' serves as a compelling case study in how a film's legacy can be rewritten by time and a new audience. Its journey from being panned to becoming a prized reference for Gen Z underscores the unpredictable and evolving nature of cinematic popularity.
