How regional cinema is telling stories Bollywood isn't - Explainer

For years, Bollywood has stood as the face of Indian cinema. The Hindi film industry shaped the mainstream taste of the audience with megastars, songs, and massy visuals. However, on the other hand, the regional movie industry has been bearing the burden of creative responsibility by showcasing stories that are realistic, filled with social complexity, and emotionally honest.

And in recent times, it has been observed that the regional cinema is boldly embracing topics that are generally avoided in Bollywood.

Bollywood vs regional cinema

Mainstream Bollywood cinema has always focused on showcasing larger-than-life storytelling and everything that viewers can consume easily. Even while tackling social issues through the movies, they are wrapped in glossy packages, humor, or star-driven mass entertainment. On the other hand, the regional cinema is exploring stories that will shake the soul of the audience.

The narratives of the regional movies showcase the everyday issues faced by the people.This contrast becomes particularly striking when similar themes are approached by different industries, led by actors of the same generation.

'Bad Girl' vs 'Call Me Bae'

Anjali Sivaraman’s 'Bad Girl' and Ananya Panday’s 'Call Me Bae' both center on young women navigating identity, independence, and societal expectations. However, their storytelling approaches are worlds apart.

'Bad Girl' presents a protagonist who is messy, vulnerable, and unapologetically flawed. The film does not rush to justify her choices or soften her mistakes. Instead, it allows the audience to sit with her contradictions, reflecting the discomfort and judgment that often accompany a woman’s pursuit of freedom in real life.In contrast, 'Call Me Bae' opts for a breezy, aspirational tone. Set against a stylish backdrop, the series frames its lead’s struggles as temporary hurdles rather than deeply personal conflicts.

While relatable and entertaining, the narrative prioritizes charm and accessibility over emotional depth, keeping the stakes light.

'Animal' vs 'The Girlfriend'

A similar divide is visible in Ranbir Kapoor’s Animal and Rashmika Mandanna’s The Girlfriend. Animal thrives on heightened drama, aggression, and the portrayal of a morally ambiguous hero whose intensity is amplified through scale and spectacle. The film’s focus remains on dominance, power, and shock value.The Girlfriend, in contrast, takes a restrained and intimate approach. It places emotional realism at the forefront, exploring relationships and inner turmoil without glorification. The narrative chooses empathy over excess, offering a perspective that feels grounded and reflective.

Why audiences are taking notice

As Bollywood continues to chase spectacle and safe storytelling, regional cinema is increasingly earning attention for its honesty. By prioritizing authenticity over glamour, these films are telling stories that Bollywood often avoids—making them resonate deeply with audiences seeking something real.