Actor Kareena Kapoor recently spoke about the growing dominance of hyper-masculine action films in Hindi cinema and the increasing focus on violence and spectacle. In a conversation with The Hollywood Reporter India, Kareena discussed how the current trend in films seems to prioritise aggression and gore over emotion and entertainment.
In recent years, big-ticket action films such as Animal, Jawan and Pathaan have dominated the box office, sparking debates about whether violent action spectacles are becoming the most commercially viable form of cinema.
During the discussion, Kareena pointed out that the current wave of films often lacks the elements that once defined mainstream Bollywood entertainment. Reflecting on the shift in storytelling styles, she said the new trend focuses heavily on aggression and spectacle rather than joy, romance or music — aspects she believes traditionally brought colour and energy to Hindi cinema.
Actor Kalyani Priyadarshan, who was also part of the conversation, spoke about how audience preferences play a major role in shaping trends within the industry. She emphasised that cinema’s direction is not determined solely by producers but also by what viewers respond to.
Explaining her perspective on the current trend, Kalyani said, “Right now, I am going to call this a trend because I believe it's a trend and it's not going to last. But the trend has always been about spectacle. Every scene has to be sensational and shocking. And I think it translates that you can show spectacle with violence and easily shocking things. People are thinking that's what's selling cinema. I don't think that's what selling cinema right now, but I think that's where it's heading right now, and we're losing the small films and small moments and a lot of emotional intimate moments, and it scares me a little.”
Agreeing with her, Kareena added, “Now it's all like thriller, crime, gore and blood and stuff. No fun, energy, colour, song, love or romance,” while also admitting that she is not getting enough scripts that offer meaningful roles for women.
The conversation highlighted ongoing discussions within the industry about balancing large-scale spectacle with emotionally driven storytelling, as filmmakers and actors continue to debate the direction in which mainstream cinema is heading.
BOLLYWOOD NEWS - LIVE UPDATES
Catch us for latest Bollywood News, New Bollywood Movies update, Box office collection, New Movies Release , Bollywood News Hindi, Entertainment News, Bollywood Live News Today & Upcoming Movies 2026 and stay updated with latest hindi movies only on Bollywood Hungama.