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Is Violence the Next Big Trend in Indian Cinema?

Indian cinema seems to be getting bolder, rawer, and unapologetically intense. With films like Animal, Kill, and Marco becoming box office successes I can’t help but wonder – Is violence the next big thing in Indian cinema?

Take Marco, for instance. The Malayalam film is causing a stir in North India, even beating Bollywood’s big Christmas release Baby John with Varun Dhawan and Keerthy Suresh. Imagine that—a regional film topping Rs 57 crore globally in just seven days! Meanwhile, Animal which was released in 2023 had viewers glued to their seats despite criticisms for its problematic themes of toxic masculinity, and Kill may not have hit blockbuster status but wowed critics with its fearless depiction of gory violence.

Also Read: 10 Best Indian Movies of 2024

Regardless of the different stories in these films, the core visual element for is violence. And with our approach of iterating what ends up successful, it’s interesting to see if violence will be the next big trend in Indian cinema. A look into the lineup of Indian movies releasing soon and we have a strong belief that this might be true.

Why Is Violence Becoming a Big Deal?

You and I both know that Indian cinema has always thrived on drama, emotion, and music. But now, violence seems to be taking center stage. Here’s why I think what’s happening:

1.     It Feels Fresh

Unlike Hollywood, where graphic violence has been part of the landscape for decades, Indian cinema is just beginning to explore this space. That novelty makes these narratives stand out and grab attention.

2. Next-Level Tech & Craftsmanship

With cutting-edge visual effects and sound design, filmmakers can now craft fight sequences that are brutally real making you flinch or even look away.

3. Global Inspirations

Binge-worthy international shows with gritty action have set a new benchmark. Indian audiences are more than ready for similar storytelling at home, and filmmakers are taking cues to match those expectations.

4. A Mirror to Society

In slightly older films like Asuran or Jallikattu, which also have a violent undertone, violence isn’t mindless—it reflects societal issues like caste oppression, human primality, or social unrest. When wielded thoughtfully, it becomes a commentary on the very real battles fought outside the cinema halls.

Upcoming releases like Fateh with Sonu Sood and Toxic show no signs of slowing this trend. Even OTT platforms are doubling down on action-packed thrillers, pushing the boundaries of how violence is depicted on screen. But here’s where things get tricky.

The Problem with All-Out Violence

Look, I get it—a good action scene can be exhilarating. But too much violence without a strong story? That’s where things fall apart.

1. Shallow Plots:

When a movie focuses solely on violence, it often loses the emotional depth that keeps us invested. We need stories that strike a balance between adrenaline-pumping action and meaningful narratives. While Marco is being hailed for its gruesome and gory violence, its lack of substance in the script is equally being criticized.

Animal Ranbir Kapoor violence

2. Cultural Sensitivity:


Given India’s diverse culture, filmmakers need to be careful not to glorify violence irresponsibly. There’s a fine line between showing violence as part of a story and making it gratuitous. This is something that I believe Animal missed out on as well, glorifying toxic masculinity to depict violence.

3. Viewer Burnout:


Too much of anything, including violence, can get old fast. Audiences may eventually crave a return to lighter, more emotionally driven films.

4. Desensitization:


When violence becomes too commonplace, its emotional impact diminishes, making it harder for films to deliver meaningful messages.

Finding the Right Balance

Violence can be a powerful tool, but only when it serves the story, not when it becomes the whole point. You and I want movies that offer more than just blood and gore—we want substance, heart, and variety.

The Role of the Audience

As viewers, we have a say in shaping cinematic trends. By supporting films that balance intensity with meaningful storytelling, we encourage filmmakers to push creative boundaries responsibly. The future of Indian cinema depends on finding that balance between thrilling action and compelling stories.

There’s room for all kinds of cinema—whether it’s romantic dramas, feel-good comedies, or high-octane thrillers. But if violence becomes the default, we risk losing the richness and diversity that make Indian cinema special.

So, what do you think? Are you ready for this new wave of cinema, or is it already too much? Maybe the next time you watch a film, you’ll find yourself asking—does the violence serve the story, or is it just there for shock value? Because at the end of the day, cinema is about connection, storytelling, and reflection—and sometimes, a little restraint can tell a bigger story.

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