Is It Really Horror Universe or Item Song Universe?

Maddock Films’ upcoming movie Thamma has sparked debate after yet another song release. Fans are asking one question — is it even possible to make a horror comedy without an item song anymore?

The horror comedy universe began with Stree in 2018 and quickly became a trend. While the films earned fame, each one carried a mandatory item number.

In Stree, you saw Aao Kabhi Haveli Pe featuring Kriti Sanon. Bhediya had Thumkeshwari with Kriti and Shraddha Kapoor. Munjya gave you Taras with Sharvari, and Stree 2 had Aaj Ki Raat featuring Tamannaah Bhatia.

At first, it was entertaining — a fun way to market the films. But Thamma takes it too far. The makers have already dropped three item songs — Hum Tere Na Hue with Rashmika Mandanna, Dilbar Ki Aankhon Ka Deedar Na Kiya with Nora Fatehi, and Poison Baby featuring Malaika Arora and Rashmika.

Now, fans are wondering if the filmmakers have lost faith in their story. Are they trying to cover up weak writing with glamour and music instead of content?

Many say the only thing toxic here is Maddock Films’ marketing plan. For years, they’ve used item songs with women dressed provocatively, filmed in ways that objectify them.

Is this really the best the studio can do? Do they think audiences still need semi-nude women to sell tickets? Sadly, this outdated formula might still work — and that says a lot about both the makers and the viewers.

Yes, Maddock Films deserves credit for turning horror comedy into a popular genre. But fans feel the team is now losing direction.

With four songs already out from Thamma — three being item numbers — the focus seems more on music videos than storytelling. If Maddock thinks this will bring crowds, they’re mistaken. People come for a good film, not for back-to-back item songs.

For decades, Bollywood has used women as marketing bait. Item songs were meant to pull audiences in. That trick still works, but not for long. Viewers are changing. Soon, they’ll stop showing up for songs and start showing up only for stories.