Kareena Kapoor flags Bollywood’s lack of originality, says hit formulas won’t make great films

Mumbai: Bollywood needs to move beyond the tendency to replicate successful formulas, actor Kareena Kapoor has said, pointing to a growing lack of originality in Hindi cinema.

Kareena reportedly expressed concern over the industry’s tendency to follow a trend soon after a film becomes successful. Referring to the success of Animal, she noted that the film’s popularity appeared to have encouraged filmmakers to explore more violent narratives instead of developing fresh ideas.

The actor also stressed the importance of writers in determining a film’s success. According to her, Bollywood needs to give greater importance to storytellers rather than relying on established formulas and repeating themes that have already worked at the box office.

Malayalam cinema offers a different model

Kareena cited Malayalam cinema as an example of an industry where writers and stories continue to play a central role. Films such as Premalu and Manjummel Boys, made on relatively modest budgets, went on to achieve significant commercial success, highlighting the audience’s appetite for original storytelling.

Actor Prithviraj Sukumaran has also spoken about the respect and encouragement given to creative writers in Malayalam cinema. Greater support from directors and producers, he said, can give writers the freedom to experiment with unconventional ideas.

The discussion has also received support from filmmaker Meghna Gulzar, who agreed with Kareena’s concerns about the changing nature of audiences.

Today’s viewers are more discerning and are willing to embrace films that offer strong stories and engaging narratives, rather than simply relying on star power or familiar formulas.

Kareena said she remains confident that audiences will support films that bring something fresh to the screen.