Ali Fazal is setting the record straight amid the buzz surrounding his latest release, Metro… In Dino. As the romantic drama continues to perform steadily at the box office and earn praise from audiences, it has also sparked some debate — particularly over its portrayal of infidelity and emotional complexity in relationships. In a candid chat with Hindustan Times, Ali addresses the criticism head-on, defends director Anurag Basu’s intent, and reflects on how the film mirrors the evolving conversations around love in today’s world.The actor is thrilled with the response to Metro… In Dino, especially the strong word-of-mouth that’s driving its success. He shared that the film’s steady box office growth is a result of genuine audience love, not just marketing buzz. After speaking with theatre owners and even visiting one himself, Ali noted that many are calling it a refreshing family entertainer that’s bringing viewers of all ages back to cinemas — something he sees as the film’s biggest win.Addressing the chatter around Metro… In Dino’s box office performance, he pushed back against claims that the film was made on a massive Rs 85 crore budget. He called such figures “obnoxious” and misleading, adding that the obsession with budget-versus-collection comparisons can distort the perception of a film’s success. Ali pointed out that inflated numbers not only demoralize the team behind the film but also influence audience sentiment — with even the average moviegoer beginning to question the film’s performance based on skewed math.Metro… In Dino, directed by Anurag Basu, weaves together four interconnected love stories set against the backdrop of bustling metro cities. While the film has been largely appreciated by audiences for its emotional depth and storytelling, some viewers have criticized certain tracks for allegedly normalising infidelity and emotional cheating.Ali, taken aback by the criticism, dismissed the notion that the film glorifies such themes. He believes that Basu has simply portrayed a slice of real life — a reflection of situations that exist around us, perhaps even drawn from personal observations. According to Ali, the film doesn’t pass judgment, but rather presents human relationships in all their complexity.Drawing a comparison between Metro… In Dino and its spiritual predecessor Life in a… Metro, Fazal pointed out how the portrayal of love and relationships has evolved over time. He noted that the original film reflected the conversations of its era, while the new one incorporates the emotional and societal shifts that have come since. According to Ali, Metro… In Dino doesn’t pass judgment on its characters — it simply presents them as they are, navigating love in today’s complex world.Metro In Dino also stars Aditya Roy Kapur, Sara Ali Khan, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Konkona Sen Sharma, Pankaj Tripathi, Anupam Kher, and Neena Gupta. The film is currently running in theatres.
