Cinema – Vansh Bhardwaj Urges Fair Judgment on Border 2 Debate
Cinema – Actor Vansh Bhardwaj has addressed the online criticism surrounding Border 2 and the trolling directed at Varun Dhawan, urging audiences to watch the film before forming conclusions.
The actor, who portrays a Haryanvi soldier in the recently released war drama Border 2, spoke about the comparisons being drawn between the new film and the 1997 classic Border. In an interaction with IANS, he acknowledged that comparisons are natural but maintained that every creative effort deserves to be judged on its own merit.
Comparisons With a Classic Film
Border 2 arrived in theatres carrying significant expectations, largely because of the legacy associated with the original film. Soon after promotional material and songs from the film were released, social media platforms saw a wave of reactions. Many viewers began drawing parallels between the two films, while some criticized performances even before watching the full project.
Responding to a question about this reaction, Bhardwaj said comparisons are part of human nature. However, he emphasized that expecting two different films—or two different actors—to deliver identical experiences is unrealistic.
According to him, even individuals raised in the same household grow into distinct personalities. Applying that logic to cinema, he argued, it is unfair to expect artists to replicate the impact of earlier performances. Each project, he said, carries its own interpretation, context, and emotional tone.
Varun Dhawan Faces Online Criticism
Before the theatrical release of Border 2, Varun Dhawan became the subject of online trolling. When the song “Ghar Kab Aaoge” was unveiled, some social media users criticized his expressions and performance in the promotional clips. The reaction intensified discussions around whether the sequel could match the emotional depth of the original.
Bhardwaj did not dismiss the audience’s right to express opinions. Instead, he encouraged viewers to base their judgment on the complete film rather than short snippets or early impressions.
He stated that artists create their work for the audience and are prepared to accept honest feedback. However, he stressed that the evaluation should come after experiencing the story in its entirety.
Call for Honest Viewing
The actor further explained that sincerity is central to any performance. If the work carries authenticity, he believes it will eventually resonate with viewers. At the same time, he acknowledged that not every project connects with everyone.
“If it does not connect this time, we will try harder next time,” he said, reflecting a measured and professional approach to criticism. He reiterated that constructive feedback is always welcome, but premature judgments can overlook the effort invested in a film.
Balancing Expectations and Creative Freedom
The debate around Border 2 highlights the broader challenges faced by sequels in Indian cinema. When a film follows a widely celebrated predecessor, expectations often shape public perception even before release. Actors stepping into such projects must navigate comparisons, nostalgia, and scrutiny.
Bhardwaj’s remarks underline the importance of allowing creative works to stand independently. While audience engagement is a vital part of cinema, he suggested that fairness in criticism strengthens the relationship between filmmakers and viewers.
As discussions continue around Border 2, the actor’s message remains clear: watch the film, understand its intent, and then decide. In an era where social media reactions can influence narratives quickly, his appeal calls for patience and perspective.