Back to big screen
In the ever-evolving world of cinema, where trends shift as quickly as the latest blockbuster, one phenomenon has recently emerged with compelling force — the re-release of prequels when sequels hit the screens! Here’s a look at the trend.
Retracing the past
Timeless classic
Demonstrating the enduring appeal of classic cinema, Manthan, India’s first ever crowd-funded film, was screened at the 77th edition of the Cannes Film Festival. Originally released in 1976, this film directed by the pioneer of parallel cinema Shyam Benegal, is known for its ground-breaking storytelling and focus on rural issues. The 48-year-old classic, which starred Smita Patil, one of the greatest actresses of all time, was showcased in the Cannes Classic category.
In 2023, as the buzz around Gadar 2 peaked, cinemas across India rolled out a timely re-release of its prequel, Gadar: Ek Prem Katha. Originally premiered in 2001, this epic film had become a huge hit. The re-release was not just a nostalgic gesture, but more of a strategic move. By bringing back Gadar just before the release of its sequel, the filmmakers cleverly tapped into the growing excitement and anticipation surrounding Gadar 2.
Covid effect
The Covid-19 pandemic left theatres in the dark and there was a significant decrease in new releases. Cinemas reopened in India after a seven-month-long break. With barely any new films being made and the pandemic still raging, studios and distributors found an innovative way to address the void — which was ‘re-releasing classic films’. So, iconic films from the past like Rockstar and Hum Aapke Hain Koun returned to the big screen.
Tapping blockbuster material
A notable example is Sajid Ali’s Laila Majnu. The 2018 classic love story found its way back to theatres six years after its debut. Written by Sajid Ali and Imtiaz Ali, this modern adaptation of the classic Persian love story stands out as a refreshing tribute to the timeless theme of eternal love. Triptii Dimri and Avinash Tiwary shine as Laila and Majnu. The film crossed the box-office collection of its original release within just a few days of its re-release. The film’s popularity saw an unexpected boost due to a viral incident involving actor Avinash Tiwary. While visiting a café in Kashmir, a region where the film was extensively shot, Tiwary was recognised by locals not by his real name but by his character’s name — Qaes Bhatt. The videos capturing this incident quickly spread across social media platforms. The buzz created by these viral clips reignited interest
in the film.
Hit formula
Recently, the films Laila Majnu and Maine Pyar Kiya are running in theatres across Chandigarh. Similarly, as many went to watch Tamasha in theatres pondered why Imtiaz Ali’s directorial was a flop when it first ran in theatres. Speaking of Tamasha, another of Ranbir Kapoor’s powerful performance in Rockstar was appreciated by audiences as the film re-premiered in theatres recently. Those who missed out on Gangs of Wasseypur can now watch the film in theatres from August 30 till September 5.
(Compiled by Sonali Dub)