With the growing list of film announcements — Karan Johar’s Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani being the latest entrant — one wonders the reason behind it. More so because many projects, including Fighter, Bellbottom, Liger and several others, are suffering from the pandemic-induced delays.

According to industry experts, there’s a potential risk, but it also instills confidence that the industry is ready to bounce back, pull the audience to the theatres. “When established filmmakers and actors, go ahead and announce films, it gives a clear indication that the market is on its way to revival,” says trade expert Joginder Tuteja, appreciating actor Akshay Kumar for not only announcing several films, but completing many.

While the trade and film industry is optimistic that once the theatres reopen, audiences will come in, Tuteja adds, “It also debunks the theory that post lockdown, the audience will only go to OTT.”

Along with KJo’s project, Kartik Aaryan’s yet to be titled love story, Rakul Preet Singh’s upcoming project, C Sankaran Nair biopic, Saroj Khan biopic and a film on athlete Pinki Pramanik have also been announced. Trade expert and producer Girish Johar says this is an indication that makers are just waiting for the word, action. “Since all plans are in place they’ll not waste time when things get better, and get to work,” he says.

Trade expert Taran Adarsh is also optimistic about new developments, as he puts it: “Ek khushi ki lehar aa gai hai.” “These are all big films and they are targeting cinema halls, which means not all is lost. In a gloomy scenario, announcements like these rejuvenate the industry.”

When it comes to risk, Tuteja says it’s divided and makers are being cautious. “Yash Raj Films, isn’t going ahead with ₹2000 crore movies with big stars. And Karan has just announced one project. So, they’re being realistic,” he concludes.