A big budget no longer defines a big film

The definition of a ‘big film’ in Indian cinema is changing, as film brand value is becoming more important than budget, star power or lavish production. Previously, the scale of a project was usually defined by its budget, resulting in big stars, expensive sets, grandiose visuals and significant investment defining a major theatrical release.

But shifting audience expectations are forcing filmmakers to reevaluate their approach, as while a star hero can help a film open strongly, they cannot guarantee its subsequent success.

Viewers are looking for a combination of engaging stories, characterful characters, effective direction, music, visuals and an overall experience that they felt was worth watching.

As such, the increasing appeal of a filmmaker’s brand value plays into this. Directors that consistently deliver successful films across different genres build an audience for themselves, and with each new project, viewers have greater expectations for them to deliver a similarly compelling experience.

This reflects in greater demand for sequels, as audiences seek out further stories involving a familiar cast and setting, with brand value becoming a key consideration.

While big budgets still play a role, they also come with greater financial risk, as producers need to evaluate the potential return on investment for a theatrical release.

Bigger productions demand larger investments of money, and so a film’s fortunes are increasingly tied to its ability to pay back its production costs.

Noteworthy successes at the box office on limited budgets reflect this trend, with many filmmakers realizing that they do not need to finance an entire production on a large-scale to find an audience for their work.

It would seem that brand value, in terms of either the director or film series, is becoming a bigger draw for moviegoers, with its presence often dictating the potential success of a project.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Suhas Sistu

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Suhas Sistu, born in a family with education background, brought up with good principles and education. Though, coming from Engineering backdrop, his love towards language and passion towards cinema made him to pursue career in film journalism. Started his career as a freelance content writer for some Youtube channels, he later joined HANS India as a translator. From translator to Reporter/Sr. Sub-Editor, his journey is continuing in our organisation.

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