OPINION: From Kal Ho Naa Ho to Rockstar, how re-releases are still attracting audiences despite new big movie releases

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As a hardcore Bollywood enthusiast who has been following the industry since the days of VHS tapes and Betamax, I must say that the recent trend of re-releasing films is a breath of fresh air! Being a child of the 90s, I vividly remember the excitement of watching Kal Ho Naa Ho in theaters when it first released. The nostalgia factor alone is enough to make these year-old films find acceptance despite new big movie releases.

2024 saw a fresh trend in Bollywood with numerous movies from the past being re-introduced in theaters. This includes hits like Kal Ho Naa Ho and Rockstar, as well as those that failed to make an impact during their initial release such as Laila Majnu. The re-releases have drawn audiences back into the cinemas. Here’s my take on why these older films are finding favor even amidst new blockbuster releases.

Initially, there’s a sense of nostalgia at play. For many viewers, these classic movies hold personal memories close to heart, and they yearn for a chance to revisit those moments. Others might never have had the chance to watch their preferred films in cinemas during their initial release, and now, they find themselves with an exciting opportunity to experience that theater atmosphere.

Example: On November 15, 2024, the movie Kal Ho Naa Ho, featuring Shah Rukh Khan, Preity Zinta, and Saif Ali Khan, was re-released in theaters. It’s currently being screened alongside new releases like Singham Again, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, and The Sabarmati Report. Social media is filled with snippets of people relishing their theater experience of watching KHNH, appreciating its iconic scenes and melodies. I believe this has sparked a sense of urgency among other movie enthusiasts not to miss out on the fun.

Certain films have undergone remastered versions that significantly impacted their final judgments. For instance, the movie “Laila Majnu,” starring Avinash Tiwary and Triptii Dimri, initially struggled against other Independence Day releases like “Stree 2,” “Khel Khel Mein,” and “Vedaa.” However, despite this fierce competition, it maintained its position. Remarkably, the film didn’t do well at the box office in 2018; however, it gained popularity on social media, which proved instrumental during the re-release.

In much the same way, I believe that the cult-like fame of Tumbbad and its innovative marketing materials enticed viewers to the cinemas, contributing significantly to its success during its second release.

Other movies that have been brought back to theaters include films such as Pardes, Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein, Veer-Zaara, and several others. Rakesh Roshan is planning to reintroduce the film “Karan Arjun” starring Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan in honor of its 30th anniversary. I anticipate a strong reception for this re-release due to the movie’s enduring popularity.

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2024-11-18 21:38