The middle-class audience has always been the backbone of the Indian film industry. They make up the largest section of consumers for these films. And yet, recently, it seems as though there is hardly any content being made for them on the big screen.
Most movies today focus solely on urban stories, set in big cities, showcasing lavish lifestyles, fancy locations, and problems that only a small section of the audience can relate to.
Slowly but surely, cinema has drifted away from the struggles and realities of the average Indian, creating a growing disconnect between films and their primary audience.
At the same time, OTT platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, and others have made it incredibly easy to watch films at home anytime, anywhere. With such convenience and so many choices at the click of a button, the challenge for filmmakers today isn’t just making a good film, but making one that feels worth watching in a theatre.
Shows like Gullak, Panchayat, and Very Parivarik are all for the middle-class audience, but beyond that, for the silver screen, there is nothing.
For many, going to the movies is not just about entertainment, it’s a much-needed break from their busy lives. It’s a shared experience. They look forward to gathering at a fixed place, at a fixed time, and immersing themselves in a story with 250–300 other people. They look forward to laughing, crying, and cheering together.
But now, that experience has shifted. Audiences are seeking a “paisa vasool” return. Every visit to the theatre is an investment of both time and money, and they want to ensure it’s worth every rupee.
So, is there a formula to bridge this growing gap?
If there’s one thing we’ve learned from the recent performance of Bollywood films, it’s that there is no fixed formula. What resonates today might fall flat tomorrow.
However, there are still some principles that can guide filmmakers. Stories should be more grounded, more relatable, and entertaining in a way that reflects everyday life.
Every now and then, films like 12th Fail, Shrikanth, Court: State vs A Nobody, or Maharaja come along and surprise both the audience and the industry with their honesty and success.
And that’s the real formula- something relatable, something fresh, and something that makes the audience feel seen. That reminds them they, too, are a part of this cinematic community.
