They watch, they bash, they cash in: Omar Lulu defends his work, cites Asif Ali’s success

Filmmaker Omar Lulu has launched a strong defence against the wave of negative reviews targeting his latest film, ‘Bad Boyz’. In a recent interview with Manorama Online, the director accused certain social media reviewers of running a paid smear campaign. According to Omar, many of these so-called critics are not offering genuine opinions but are instead posting negative takes for monetary gain.
“These people don’t criticise because they care about cinema,” he said. “They criticise because they’re paid to. And viewers should stop taking their opinions at face value.”

Criticism is fine, but cross the line and I’ll sue
While Omar clarified that he is open to constructive feedback, he drew the line at personal insults and character attacks. “You’re free to say you didn’t like the movie. I value that honesty. But personal attacks? That’s where I draw the line. If someone tries to assassinate my character, I’ll take legal action,” he warned.
‘Bad Boyz’ divides viewers, but kids seem to love it
With ‘Bad Boyz’ now out on OTT, reactions have been mixed. Omar acknowledged that the film isn’t for everyone. “The so-called intellectuals didn’t enjoy it, but regular audiences, especially kids, seem to be having a blast,” he said.

He added, “Right from ‘Happy Wedding’, there have been people who disliked all my films. Yet they still watch each one as soon as it releases. I don’t understand that. If you hate the food at a restaurant, why keep going back unless you’re gaining something from it?”

YouTubers chasing views over truth
Omar called out a specific YouTuber who, he claims, has systematically criticised every film he’s made, from ‘Happy Wedding’ and ‘Chunks’ to ‘Oru Adaar Love’, ‘Dhamaka’, ‘Nalla Samayam’, and now ‘Bad Boyz’.
“Their logic is, ‘If you don’t like the food, you say so.’ But if you keep going back to the same place knowing the food is bad, doesn’t that say something about your intentions? They’re doing it for money and views.”

There’s a whole mafia behind these reviews
Taking things a step further, Omar alleged that a network exists where reviewers or their agents contact filmmakers, offering positive reviews for a price. “Some take the money and vanish. Others bash the film if we refuse to pay. Even platforms like BookMyShow can show manipulated ratings,” he claimed.
He believes this artificial buzz is created through pre-release ticket bookings by corporate entities. “This is the reality now,” he said.

Filmmaking is no cakewalk
Drawing comparisons with sports, Omar said, “Does Virat Kohli score a century every match? Does Messi net a goal every game? No. But we still know they’re brilliant players. Likewise, one underwhelming film doesn’t mean a director is worthless.”
He urged people to consider the challenges behind the scenes. “Nobody knows the limitations I had to work within for this film. So, criticise the film if you must—but don’t make it personal.”

Turn off monetisation and then review
Omar pointed out how things change when someone produces a film. Referring to Joju George’s reaction to reviews of ‘Antony’, he said, “Joju ignored criticism when he acted in films. But when it was his own production, he called out the reviewer. That’s because he finally understood the effort it takes to make a film.
“If someone reviews a movie just out of passion—without monetising it—I respect that. But most of these people are in it for the money. Look at how ‘Empuraan’ became a punching bag, just because people now analyse everything through political or religious lenses.”

Many reviewers don’t even represent public opinion
According to Omar, some reviews are so out of touch, they’re laughable. “Take ‘Varshangalkku Shesham’. Most viewers complained about the makeup. Even Dhyan himself admitted it. Yet one popular vlogger praised the makeup as the film’s best feature. What does that tell you?”
Frustration from those who couldn’t make it
The filmmaker also believes bitterness fuels many negative reviewers. “Most of them once dreamed of making films themselves. Some tried acting. Others pitched scripts to me. When things didn’t work out, they became reviewers. This is just their frustration spilling out.”

“To keep up appearances, they’ll praise a few films occasionally. But Malayali audiences aren’t foolish. They can spot bias. Remove the monetisation, and 70% of these reviews would vanish. It’s all about making money off someone else’s hard work.”

I don’t need your permission to make films
Addressing those who say he should quit filmmaking, Omar responded strongly: “I didn’t enter this industry with anyone’s permission. I had no godfather. Today, newcomers are getting opportunities because of my films.”
He went on to highlight that actors like Priya Warrier, Grace Antony, Siju Wilson, and Balu Varghese got their first major breaks in his projects. “It was ‘Oru Adaar Love’ that proved stories about plus-two students could be successful. That gave rise to talents like Naslen.”
I’m taking legal action
Omar concluded by revealing that he’s planning legal action against those who cross the line. “Let the critics say what they want about the film. But if you come after me personally, I won’t keep quiet. I’ve already made note of two such individuals and I’m consulting lawyers. The case will be filed within a week.”