Filmmaker and actor Farhan Akhtar admits films influence the general public, but says more than the sleazy item songs, what impacts is the way the hero romances his on-screen love interest.

"I do believe that films do have an influence. More than the item songs phenomenon, it is in the way our heroes romance our women. I think that's a very crucial thing and it has changed over the years," the 39-year-old said here Thursday during One Billion Rising, a global campaign to raise awareness about gender-based violence across 200 countries.

Love on screen has become more open and bold, and this is something that worries Akhtar.

"You know there was a time when it was hidden. Then it became very sincere and romantic, and now it has gone into a (different) phase," he said.

He feels introspection is necessary.

"Everyone needs to be introspective and realise when it is a female celebrating her sexuality, sensuality, her independence or when does the male gaze take over - I think that's very crucial!"