The Indian film industry has always been a treasure trove of captivating stories, larger-than-life characters, and unforgettable cinematic experiences. However, in recent years, one trend has become increasingly evident: sequels are dominating the box office like never before. Films like Pushpa 2, Stree 2, Baahubali 2, KGF 2, Gadar 2, and Pathaan have not only shattered records, but also cemented their place among the top 10 highest-grossing films in Indian cinema.
Interestingly, the list of India’s top box office hits features only a few non-sequels such as RRR, Jawan, Animal, and Kalki 2898 AD. We explore why sequels have a better chance at becoming box office blockbusters in India, backed by examples and trends from the industry.
The Appeal of Familiarity
One of the key reasons sequels perform exceptionally well is the built-in audience they inherit from their predecessors. A successful first installment lays the groundwork, creating a loyal fan base eager to revisit beloved characters and storylines.
For example, Baahubali 2: The Conclusion became a cultural phenomenon in 2017. The cliffhanger ending of Baahubali: The Beginning left audiences desperate to know “Why did Kattappa kill Baahubali?” The anticipation for the sequel was unprecedented, resulting in record-breaking pre-release ticket sales and packed theaters across the globe.
Similarly, KGF Chapter 2 rode on the immense popularity of its predecessor, KGF Chapter 1. The continuation of Rocky’s saga not only drew fans of the first film but also expanded its audience base, becoming one of India’s highest-grossing films.
Established Brand Value
Sequels benefit from established brand value, making it easier to market and attract audiences. The promotional campaigns for Pushpa 2 and Gadar 2 leveraged the success of their original films to generate buzz.
Pushpa: The Rise became a nationwide sensation, with Allu Arjun’s swagger and the film’s iconic dialogues going viral. The hype around Pushpa 2: The Rule began even before its release date was announced, with fans eager to see how Pushpa’s journey continues.
Similarly, Gadar: Ek Prem Katha was a massive hit in 2001, and its sequel, Gadar 2, capitalized on the nostalgia factor. Sunny Deol’s portrayal of Tara Singh remains etched in the hearts of audiences, and the sequel’s marketing cleverly reminded viewers of the emotional highs of the original film, leading to packed theaters 22 years later.
The Power of Fan Loyalty
Sequels often deepen the connection between the audience and the characters. In franchises like Stree and Pathaan, audiences return not just for the story but for the characters they’ve come to love.
Stree 2 builds on the success of the horror-comedy Stree, which struck a chord with its unique blend of humor, scares, and social commentary. The sequel promises to bring back the quirky characters and expand on the lore, ensuring fans of the first film remain invested.
On the other hand, Pathaan is part of YRF’s spy universe, which includes hits like War and Tiger Zinda Hai. Shah Rukh Khan’s portrayal of the titular character and returned to the big screen after a gap of 4 years, combined with the interconnected universe of spies, creates a loyal fan base eager for future installments.
Bigger Budgets, Bigger Scope
Sequels often come with larger budgets, allowing filmmakers to scale up production values, visual effects, and action sequences. The promise of a grander cinematic experience draws audiences in.
Baahubali 2 and KGF Chapter 2 are prime examples of this trend. Both films offered visually stunning landscapes, larger-than-life battles, and intricate storytelling that outshone their predecessors. Similarly, Pathaan raised the stakes with high-octane action sequences shot across exotic locations, making it a visual spectacle.
Franchise Storytelling: The Way Forward
Indian cinema is increasingly embracing franchise storytelling, inspired by Hollywood’s success with franchises like Marvel Cinematic Universe and Fast & Furious. Films like Pathaan, RRR, and Kalki 2898 AD are paving the way for interconnected stories and characters, setting the stage for sequels and spin-offs.
Exceptions in the Era of Sequels
While sequels dominate the box office, a few standalone films like RRR, Jawan, Animal, and Kalki 2898 AD have managed to break through the noise. These films succeed by offering fresh, unique narratives combined with star power and high production values.
RRR became a global sensation with its innovative storytelling and spectacular visuals, proving that original content can still thrive. Similarly, Jawan capitalized on Shah Rukh Khan’s massive fan base and a gripping storyline, earning its place among the top 10 hits of Indian cinema.
