Why women centric films are failing. Many female-led films face challenges when it comes to their box office performance. Recent releases like "Thank You for Coming" and "Dhak Dhak," as well as earlier ones like "Shabaash Mittu," "Saina," Kangana Ranaut’s "Chandramukhi 2," and "Thalaivi," have struggled to find success.
Even movies addressing significant social issues, such as "Chhapaak," "Thappad," and "Saand Ki Aankh," have had lackluster openings. Some attribute this to the notion of star power, but even A-list actresses like Deepika Padukone and Kangana Ranaut have faced challenges in breaking the 5-crore mark at the box office with solo films. Notable exceptions like Alia Bhatt's "Gangubai" and "Raazi" saw steady climbs to success, rather than a massive opening like films starring Salman Khan or Akshay Kumar, which, despite their outcomes, tend to have substantial initial audiences.
Producer Rhea Kapoor, who questioned the term 'woman-centric' films, expressed her belief that the focus should be on great stories and unforgettable characters, regardless of gender. This perspective ignited a social media conversation, with actresses like Deepika Padukone emphasizing the importance of compelling narratives over gender-specific labels, and Kangana Ranaut advocating for roles that challenge conventions while providing entertainment.Vidya Balan, a prominent advocate for female characters in Hindi cinema, has stated that modern women play a crucial role in driving on-screen reinvention.
Adah Sharma stressed that a strong female audience can make a film a blockbuster success through word-of-mouth recommendations.In a predominantly male-centric industry, women are gradually breaking molds and drawing audiences back to theaters. Films like "Hichki" and "Veere Di Wedding" have demonstrated that compelling stories can succeed without adhering to a formulaic mold. These films tackle issues without relying on a dominant male presence.The contrast between Deepika Padukone's "Pathan," with Shah Rukh Khan as the lead, being a super hit, while "Chappak" struggled, and the slow but successful start of "Piku," raises questions about audience expectations and film promotion.
Actress Nithya Menen believes that the notion of gender playing a defining role in a film's success is outdated, emphasizing that good content resonates with the audience regardless of the lead's gender. She cites examples like "Kumari Shreemati" and the success of actresses in Telugu cinema.Dia Mirza simplifies the situation, noting that a well-promoted, engaging film that excites the audience is what drives a successful opening. The purchasing power in the industry still predominantly rests with the male audience, and they are the primary theater-goers.