Bollywood is stuck in a time loop… and we’re all watching it happen in real-time!
This is true in several departments, but I’m specifically referring to the trend of re-releasing old films. And it’s not just old-school classics, it’s even films of the last decade that are getting a second innings are the cinema.
So, what could’ve been thought of as a celebration of nostalgia, is now seeming like a serious creativity crisis in Bollywood.
Let’s face it – New films aren’t working the way they used to. Even big-budget productions with superstar names are struggling to keep theatres full.
Meanwhile, re-releases of old classics? BOOM! Full houses.
So, instead of investing in fresh, risky stories, production houses & studios are playing it safe—bringing back films we already love. And to be fair, it’s working! People are excited to watch their favorite movies on the big screen again – because nostalgia. And well, much better films.
All of this got me thinking about the economics of re-releases, because studios have clearly hit a goldmine — there’s zero production cost, minimal marketing spend, and an already loyal fan base ready to buy tickets.
Compare that to new films, which come with huge budgets, high expectations, and the constant pressure of competing with streaming platforms.
And this brings us to the bigger problem—are Bollywood filmmakers just not able to tell stories that connect with us anymore?
Let’s be honest—how many recent films actually stuck with you – especially the ones with massive theatrical releases?
It’s almost like studios are scared to experiment at a mainstream level.
I also think it’s not the writers who aren’t taking risks, because we have OTT packed with gritty, complex, and engaging narratives. I think it’s the studios that are too risk-averse and refuse to evolve.
So, where does this leave Bollywood?
Cinema thrives on evolution, on stories that challenge, inspire, and push the boundaries of creativity. Re-releases may be filling seats for now, but they’re also a glaring reminder that something feels broken. Nostalgia is great – it’s safe & comforting. But at some point, dwelling on the past for too long stops feeling nostalgic and feels more like a crutch.
