Bollywood Sequels: Audiences Demand Story Over Stardom

The landscape of Bollywood sequels is undergoing a significant shift, with audiences increasingly demanding strong storytelling over mere franchise continuation. Veteran trade analyst Taran Adarsh observed that films such as Sikandar, War 2, and Son Of Sardaar 2 in 2025, and even Housefull (5) upon its release, largely failed to impress at the box office. This indicates that brand value alone is insufficient to guarantee success.

Adarsh emphasized that merely adding a number to a previous hit film does not guarantee audience interest. He asserted that the story must intrinsically justify the existence of a sequel. Examples like Kantara, praised for its beautiful narrative, and Kesari 2, despite being well-made, illustrate how a strong story and genuine audience connection are paramount for commercial viability.

The industry is being reminded that robust content and a compelling narrative are crucial for box office success. Filmmakers must focus on crafting films that truly resonate with viewers, moving beyond a reliance on legacy or past successes. The message is clear: effective storytelling is the new benchmark for sequel performance in Bollywood.