Veteran producer believes strong storytelling is driving success, as audiences move beyond star power to seek meaningful cinema

CJ Desk

In recent years, films like 12th Fail, Munjya, Laapataa Ladies, Badhaai Ho, and Andhadhun have challenged the belief that only big-budget, star-studded films can succeed at the box office. These sleeper hits have proved that strong storytelling and fresh perspectives are resonating more with audiences today.

Veteran producer Anand Pandit believes the shift is clear. “It would be safe to say that the market is increasingly story-obsessed now. Even in big-screen extravaganzas, the audience expects thematic coherence, strong performances, and compelling storytelling,” he explains. With several high-budget films underperforming, Pandit highlights the growing appetite for quality scripts over star power. “Smaller films are blazing a new 

trail by presenting smartly budgeted, well-told stories. Audiences today are very well-versed with quality writing and can’t be won over by formulaic and tired storytelling,” he adds. Pandit also credits streaming platforms for reshaping viewer expectations. “Post-pandemic, there is a rising demand for unique, well-written content. Cinema now needs to offer unexplored genres and meaningful human stories to attract audiences back to theatres.”

The success of regional cinema across India is another sign of change. “Today, regional films like the Telugu sci-fi epic Kalki 2898 AD or Malayalam hit Premalu are finding success across language barriers,” says Pandit. “If the theme is fresh and the content is genuine, films can reach a much wider audience—which is a very positive trend.” Anand is currently backing the Kannada film Father, produced by RC Studios, signaling his support for strong regional storytelling with national appeal.