Shekhar Suman: Bollywood Today Relies on Formula, Lacks Original Filmmakers

Actor Shekhar Suman has criticized modern Bollywood filmmakers for relying too much on formulas and not being original thinkers. He says many movies follow the same predictable patterns—familiar plots, recycled jokes, and repeated character types—which makes films feel similar to one another. According to him, this trend reduces creativity and hurts the industry’s ability to surprise audiences.

Suman believes filmmakers often choose safe ideas because they fear financial loss, so they copy past successes instead of taking risks on new stories. He thinks this approach may work short-term at the box office, but it stops Indian cinema from growing artistically. He also suggested that audiences should encourage fresh voices by supporting more experimental and independent films. When viewers reward originality, directors and producers may feel more confident to try new themes and styles.

Many people agree that commercial pressure influences film choices, while others point out that some filmmakers still create bold, original work. Suman’s comments sparked conversations about how to balance commercial success with creative risk-taking. If more viewers and industry players back original ideas, Bollywood could become more diverse, exciting, and internationally respected.