Telugu cinema has long been celebrated for its vibrant storytelling, energetic action sequences, and heartwarming family dramas. From classics that tugged at heartstrings to side-splitting comedies that left audiences in stitches, these genres have been integral to the industry’s success. However, a closer look at recent releases has taken notice of family dramas and comedies losing ground in the face of action-packed blockbusters and pan-Indian ventures.
While action and larger-than-life films have undoubtedly captured the spotlight and the box office, a void seems to be in the place where lighthearted and relatable stories once thrived.
The rise of action and the pan-Indian films
In recent years, Telugu cinema has witnessed a surge in high-budget action films that have achieved pan-Indian success. Movies like ‘Baahubali’, ‘RRR’, ‘Pushpa’, ‘Salaar’, ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ have shattered box office records and are getting international recognition. This success has understandably led to a greater emphasis on action-oriented stories with universal appeal.
However, this pursuit of pan-Indian success has inadvertently pushed other genres, including comedy and family dramas, to the edge. With production houses investing heavily in big-budget action films, smaller, character-driven stories are finding it increasingly difficult to secure funding and distribution.
The Diminishing presence of comedy and family dramas
A quick glance at the list of upcoming big Telugu releases in the upcoming years such as ‘Spirit’, ‘Paradise’, Vijay Deverakonda starrer ‘VD12’, ‘Vishwambhara’ reveals a noticeable scarcity of pure comedies and family dramas. While some films may incorporate comedic elements or family-centric themes, the focus is often on other genres, such as action, romance, or thriller.
During a chat with TOI, senior journalist Lata Srinivasan said, “Why Telugu cinema didn’t do well in 2024 other than ‘Pushpa 2: The Rule’ and ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ is probably because the stories were very run of the mill. They did not have any innovative stories. Same kind of action, story, and drama which has been seen a million times in Telugu cinema and otherwise. There was no novelty factor as far as Telugu cinema”. This also shows why the filmmakers are looking to make big-budget films to rope in big bucks.
Several factors contribute to this decline. Firstly, the changing audience preferences, primarily driven by younger viewers who are increasingly drawn to action and visual spectacle, have influenced the choices made by filmmakers.
Secondly, the rise of OTT platforms has provided an alternative avenue for smaller, content-driven films, leading some filmmakers to believe that theatrical releases are best reserved for larger-than-life experiences whereas the comedy genre can be more often given through social media after the increase of stand up acts on YouTube and other streaming platforms. Additionally short-time content further makes the audience get the comedy dose in seconds which was earlier was catered more often by the films.
However, dismissing the potential of comedy and family dramas might be a mistake. Successful comedies and family dramas can often achieve significant box office success.
There are signs that Telugu cinema is not abandoning family and comedy genres entirely. Fondly known as Prabhas is set to star in a horror-comedy, reportedly with no action sequences. The film choice by such a global star shows his interest to cater his audience with comedies and family dramas for a fresh twist.
Recently released, Victory Venkatesh’s family entertainer ‘Sankranthiki Vasthunnam’ grossed over Rs 300 crore worldwide, showing the knack of family-oriented content among the masses.
To ensure the continued success and relevance of Telugu cinema, it is crucial to maintain a balance between action-packed blockbusters and smaller, more intimate stories. This requires a concerted effort from filmmakers, producers, and distributors to prioritize diversity and cater to a wide range of audience preferences.
One possible solution is to encourage the production of “mid-budget” films that combine elements of comedy, family drama, and other genres. These films can offer relatable stories with strong emotional cores, while also providing a platform for talented actors and filmmakers who may not have access to big-budget projects.
OTT platforms can play a crucial role in showcasing diverse content and nurturing emerging talent. By investing in original comedies and family dramas, streaming services can provide a valuable avenue for filmmakers to explore different storytelling styles and connect with niche audiences.
