Is comedy and family drama taking backseat in Tollywood? , – The Times of India

Telugu cinema has long been celebrated for its vibrant story, energetic action sequence and heartbreaking family drama. From classics, who were collided for heartbeat as well as for side-spliting comedy, which left the audience in stitches, these styles have been an integral part of the success of the industry. However, on the recent release, a close gaze has taken notice to lose family plays and comedy in front of action-pack blockbusters and Pan-Indian Ventures.
While action and large life films have undoubtedly captured the spotlight and box office, a zero appears to be at the place where the rich and reliable stories are completed once.
The Rise of Action and the Pan-Indian Films
In recent years, Telugu cinema has seen an increase in high-budget action films, which have achieved PAN-Indian success. Films like ‘Bahubali’, ‘RRR’, ‘Pushpa’, ‘Salar’, ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ have broken the box office records and are getting international recognition. This success has given more emphasis on action-oriented stories with universal appeal.
However, this discovery of Pan-Indian success has unknowingly pushed other styles, including comedy and family plays, to the edge. With heavy-investing production houses in large-borne action films, small, character-driven stories are finding it difficult to secure funding and distribution.
Comedy and low appearance of family drama
The upcoming Big Telugu release list reveals a quick look in the coming years such as ‘Spirit’, ‘Paradise’, ‘VD12’ starring Vijay Devarkonda, ‘Vishwabhahar’ revealed a focusable horror of pure comedy and family plays. While some films may include comedic elements or family-centered subjects, attention is often on other styles, such as action, romance, or thriller.
During a chat with Toi, senior journalist Lata Srinivasan said, “Why Telugu Cinema did well in 2024, apart from ‘Pushpa 2: The Rule’ and ‘Kalki 2898 AD’, because probably the stories were very run. . They also showed no innovative stories that filmmakers are watching big budget films to make rope in big rupees.
Many factors contribute to this decline. First, the changing audience’s priorities, mainly operated by the young audience, have affected the options made by filmmakers, which are ready for rapid action and visual spectacle.
Secondly, the rise of OTT platforms has provided an alternative avenue for small, material-powered films, which some filmmakers believe that dramatic releases are best reserved for the greatest experiences, while Comedy style can be given more often through social media. After the increase of stand up acts on YouTube and other streaming platforms. In addition, short time content further receives the audience in seconds, which was completed more often by films.
However, rejecting the capacity of comedy and family drama can be a mistake. Successful comedy and family plays can often achieve significant box office success.
There are indications that Telugu cinema is not completely leaving family and comedy styles. Known as Prabhas, is ready to act in a scary-comedy, allegedly there is no action sequence. The film Choice by such a global star shows his interest to fulfill his audience with comedy and family drama for a new twist.

Recently released, the entertainer of Victory Venkatesh’s family ‘Sankranthiki Wastenam’ earned more than Rs 300 crore worldwide, showing a habit of family-oriented material among the public.

To ensure the continuous success and relevance of Telugu cinema, it is important to maintain a balance between action-pack blockbusters and small, more intimate stories. This requires a concrete effort to prefer diversity from filmmakers, makers and distributors and complete a wide range of audience preferences.
A possible solution is to encourage the production of “middle-budget” films that combine elements of comedy, family plays and other styles. These films can offer trusted stories with strong emotional core, while also providing a platform for talented actors and filmmakers that cannot have access to big budget projects.

OTT platforms can play an important role in showing diverse materials and nourishing emerging talent. By investing in original comedy and family drama, streaming services can provide a valuable avenue for filmmakers to detect various storytelling styles and join the top audience.