As Bollywood steps into 2025, the industry is poised at a pivotal juncture, aiming to redefine its box office success amidst evolving audience preferences and intensified competition. According to a report in Financial Times, the previous years have presented challenges, with a notable 7 percent decline in box office collections in 2024 compared to 2023, attributed to factors such as high ticket prices, the rise of streaming platforms, and the increasing popularity of Southern Indian cinema.
Trade analyst Girish Johar told ETimes, “2023 was a landmark year post-Covid and the collections were fantastic. In 2024, we are well short of expectations and pretty much comfortable but we were still below par than 2023. Around 18-20 percent we are falling short vis-a-vis 2023 collections and in 2025, I am looking at bigger numbers equivalent to 2023. We have big releases lined up, the confidence in the fraternity is back. We are starting the new year with a bang with films like Fateh, Emergency, Game Changer, and Deva. They are all biggies lined up in January itself. So this is definitely a very good confidence booster.”
The upcoming releases in 2025 reflect Bollywood’s strategic shift towards high-octane action films and biographical dramas, aiming to recapture audience interest and boost box office revenues. The industry’s focus on grandiose productions and sequels indicates a response to the challenges faced in 2024.
Talking about the role sequels and franchises will play in restoring audience confidence, Film Trade Expert Girish Wankhede told ETimes, “In 2025, we anticipate a remarkable resurgence of confidence in the Indian film industry, thanks to an impressive lineup of films set to captivate audiences across the nation. The Hindi film sector is poised to deliver a series of highly anticipated sequels and franchises that promise to draw in viewers. Among the standout titles is Jolly LLB 3, featuring the dynamic duo of Akshay Kumar and Arshad Warsi, which is sure to resonate with fans of the legal drama-comedy genre.”
He added, “Additionally, Ajay Devgn is set to grace the screen in two exciting projects. The first is ‘Raid 2’ which is the sequel of 2018 crime thriller and ‘Son of Sardar 2’ which would be directed by Vijay Kumar Arora and is the sequel of 2012 hit. The other landmark franchise project is, ‘War 2‘, which will see the powerhouse actor Junior NTR along with Hrithik Roshan, promising to deliver high-octane action and drama.”
“The Welcome series also returns with Welcome to the Jungle, featuring the iconic pairing of Akshay Kumar and Sunil Shetty. Tiger Shroff, further solidifying his status as a leading figure in the industry by featuring in Baaghi 4’. These films, backed by strong brand values and established franchises, are expected to create a significant impact at the box office, leveraging the tried-and-true formula of connecting with audiences,” he shared
However, Bollywood filmmaker Vipul Shah doesn’t feel like the industry has shifted to sequels and franchises. He told ETimes, “No, I think sequels and franchise films have always been there for the last 15-20 years. And every successful film wants to take itself into a sequel. And it’s a great marketing tool, nothing else. Because there is a huge awareness about the brand. And so audience connect is much easier. Of course, every sequel has to be better than the original film. Unless and until we make a better film, the sequel will probably give you a better opening but not a great success. And I think every filmmaker is aware of this. And that’s why they’ve been working very hard. It’s not an answer to a challenge. But it’s always great to get a sequel in because a certain amount of audience commitment with that sequel is given. And that’s a great start for any film, particularly in the times where people are choosing not to go for a film in the theatre that often.”
He added, “The number of outings per family has reduced. So I think sequels are a good way to attract them. Or a franchise film is a good way to attract them. But there are always new films which come and make their own mark. So it’s a combination of both. And I think as going forward, you will see that it’s not just a sequel and franchise. It’s also the original film. What happens is that because of the sequel getting so much attraction, they are more talked about.”
The film industry faces challenges like soaring production costs and the need for bold creativity. With the rise of streaming platforms and shifting viewer preferences, there’s a push for a balance between traditional theater releases and digital content. Industry experts are seeking global partnerships and fresh distribution strategies to stay ahead in this rapidly changing entertainment landscape.
Upcoming Films in 2025
The 2025 slate is robust, featuring a mix of sequels, high-octane action dramas, and fresh narratives aimed at revitalising Bollywood’s appeal.
Sikandar
Eid 2025 promises to be a grand celebration for Salman Khan fans, with a blockbuster treat lined up for the festive season! Sikandar, directed by AR Murugadoss, brings together an electrifying cast, featuring Rashmika Mandanna of Pushpa and Animal fame opposite Khan. Adding to the excitement, the film also stars Suniel Shetty and Sharman Joshi in pivotal roles.
War 2
Ayan Mukerji’s upcoming film elevates the War franchise, with Hrithik Roshan reprising his role as Kabir. The sequel introduces Jr NTR as a fierce antagonist in his Bollywood debut. While details of the plot are being kept secret, excitement for the film continues to build.
Alpha
Save the date for December 25, 2025, as YRF unveils a groundbreaking addition to its iconic spy universe! Directed by Shiv Rawail, this action-packed thriller stars Alia Bhatt and Sharvari, offering high-octane drama with a fresh female-led perspective. Get ready for a Christmas blockbuster that will redefine the spy genre!
Emergency
Kangana Ranaut’s Emergency, a biographical action-drama about former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, marks her directorial and producing debut. The film, written by Ritesh Shah, features a strong cast including Vishak Nair, Anupam Kher, and Shreyas Talpade. However, its release was postponed after the Central Board of Film Certification withheld approval. Fans are eagerly awaiting updates on the film’s new release date.
Fateh
The action-thriller Fateh marks the directorial debut of Sonu Sood in collaboration with Ajay Dhama, Zee Studios, and Shakti Sagar Productions. Featuring an impressive ensemble cast, including Naseeruddin Shah, Vijay Raaz, Dibyendu Bhattacharya, Jacqueline Fernandez, and Sonu Sood himself, the film promises an adrenaline-packed narrative.
Set in the tranquil fields of Punjab, the story follows Fateh, a former special operations officer haunted by his past. His peaceful life is shattered when a young girl from a rural community falls prey to a ruthless cybercrime ring. Driven by justice, Fateh joins forces with Khushi, an ethical hacker, to expose a sprawling web of national corruption and bring the culprits to light. With its gripping plot and powerful performances, Fateh is set to deliver a cinematic experience that blends action, emotion, and a fight for justice.
Chhaavaa
Vicky Kaushal’s much-awaited historical drama, an adaptation of Shivaji Sawant’s acclaimed Marathi novel Chhava, is set to hit screens on Valentine’s Day, February 14. The film brings to life the heroic journey of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the valiant son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Initially scheduled for a December 2024 release, the makers strategically postponed it to avoid clashing with Allu Arjun’s Pushpa 2: The Rule. Co-starring Rashmika Mandanna, this cinematic retelling promises to captivate audiences with its rich historical narrative and Vicky’s powerful portrayal. It’s a tale of courage, sacrifice, and legacy, sure to make an impactful mark.
Kantara The Legend: Part 1
The prequel to the hit film Kantara, titled Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1, is set to release on October 2, 2025, coinciding with Gandhi Jayanti. Directed by and starring Rishab Shetty, this installment explores the detailed backstory of the deities from the original film. Produced by Vijay Kiragandur under Hombale Films, the prequel has a significantly higher budget of around Rs 200 crore, compared to the original’s Rs 16 crore, showcasing a larger scale of production. The film will be available in multiple languages and Amazon Prime Video has secured the post-theatrical digital rights for Rs 125 crore, marking a big deal for a regional film.
Thama
Ayushmann Khurrana is set to star in Thama, the latest addition to Maddock Films’ horror-comedy universe, marking his debut in this genre. Directed by Aditya Sarpotdar, known for Munjya, the film is scheduled for a Diwali 2025 release. Khurrana describes Thama as a “total wildcard” and a career game-changer, emphasizing its uniqueness in Indian cinema.
The film also features Rashmika Mandanna, marking their first on-screen collaboration. Principal photography commenced on December 12, 2024. Thama is anticipated to expand Maddock’s successful horror-comedy universe, which includes films like Stree and Bhediya.
Jolly LLB 3
Akshay Kumar returns with another exciting film! Directed by Subhash Kapoor, Jolly LLB 3 is the third installment in the popular series. The movie features Akshay alongside Arshad Warsi, the lead from the first part, along with Huma Qureshi, Amrita Rao, and Saurabh Shukla. It’s set to release in April 2025.
Sitaare Zameen Par
Aamir Khan is making his long-awaited comeback with a sports drama film directed by RS Prasanna, following the mixed response to Laal Singh Chaddha. This movie, a spiritual sequel to Taare Zameen Par, is based on the Spanish film Champions. Aamir stars alongside actress Genelia Deshmukh. To make Christmas 2025 extra special for his fans, the film is set for release on December 25, 2025.
Baaghi 4
The first look at Baaghi 4 teases an intense, action-packed storyline, with Tiger Shroff returning in a blood-soaked avatar. The upcoming film promises high-octane stunts and a darker, more gripping tone, setting the stage for its 2025 release. The preview hints at the evolution of Shroff’s character, keeping fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter.
Lahore 1947 and Jatt
Sunny Deol‘s upcoming film, Jatt, directed by Gopichand Malineni, is now scheduled for release on Republic Day 2025, January 26. This action-packed movie blends patriotism and high-octane sequences, featuring Deol in a larger-than-life role. Initially, Lahore: 1947, produced by Aamir Khan and directed by Rajkumar Santoshi, was set for the same date. However, its release has been postponed to mid-2025 to allow Jatt to debut on the Republic Day weekend.
It focuses on the partition era, depicting the poignant story of a Muslim family migrating from Lucknow to Lahore. The film stars Preity Zinta and Shabana Azmi, with a climactic train sequence capturing the chaotic emotions of the time. Post-production is underway, with meticulous attention to accurately portraying the partition visuals.
Both films are highly anticipated, with Jatt aiming to capitalize on the Republic Day weekend and Lahore: 1947 promising a heartfelt narrative set against a significant historical backdrop.
Deva
Shahid Kapoor’s first look from his upcoming action thriller Deva has been unveiled, showing him in a fierce and menacing avatar. The actor’s intense look, paired with a bold character design, promises a high-octane performance. The film is expected to be packed with suspense and action.
De De Pyaar De 2, Raid 2
In 2025, Ajay Devgn will be seen in three major sequels. The first one, Raid 2, is set to release on May 2. Later, De De Pyaar De 2 will follow on November 14. Additionally, a sequel to Son of Sardar is also lined up, though the release date is yet to be confirmed.
Sky Force, Housefull 5
Akshay Kumar has an exciting line-up for 2025, beginning with Sky Force on January 25. This is followed by Jolly LLB 3 on April 11 and Housefull 5 on June 6. Additionally, Welcome to the Jungle, featuring an ensemble cast including Anil Kapoor, Disha Patani, and Lara Dutta, is set to release in 2025, but the exact date is still to be announced.
Bankable Ventures
Among these, Sikandar and War 2 are projected to be major box office draws, given the star power of Salman Khan, Jr NTR and Hrithik Roshan, respectively. Their previous successes in similar genres bolster expectations for substantial openings and sustained audience interest. Additionally, Emergency is anticipated to attract viewers interested in politically charged narratives, especially with Kangana Ranaut’s involvement both in front of and behind the camera.
Talking about high-octane action movies attracting audiences in 2025, Girish Wankhede shared, “Action films have long been the cornerstone of cinematic appeal, captivating audiences with their adrenaline-pumping sequences and larger-than-life heroes. As we look ahead to 2025, two of the most anticipated entries in this genre from Bollywood are War 2 and Sikandar. Sikandar, directed by the talented AR Murugadoss and produced by Sajid Nadiadwala, promises to be a spectacular showcase for Salman Khan as he reprises his iconic action avatar. Fans can expect a thrilling ride filled with intense action sequences and gripping drama. Meanwhile, War 2, the sequel to the original blockbuster, is poised to raise the bar even higher. This film will feature the electrifying combination of Junior NTR and Hrithik Roshan, delivering high-octane action that is sure to leave audiences on the edge of their seats.”
He added, “In addition to these two titans of action, we have ‘Baaghi 4,’ starring the ever-charismatic Tiger Shroff. Known for his remarkable agility and martial arts prowess, Shroff’s return to the franchise is anticipated to deliver yet another thrilling chapter filled with high-stakes drama and breathtaking action choreography.”
“The action genre is not limited to Bollywood alone; Hollywood is also set to unleash a wave of blockbuster action films that will resonate with Indian audiences. The highly anticipated Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning promises to deliver the franchise’s signature blend of heart-stopping stunts and intricate espionage. Additionally, Captain America: Brave New World will continue the legacy of one of Marvel’s most beloved superheroes, while Karate Kid: Legends and the new Superman film are expected to captivate audiences with their thrilling narratives,” Wankhede said.
Challenges Ahead
Audience Diversification:
The rise of streaming platforms has diversified viewer preferences, with audiences seeking varied and original content beyond traditional Bollywood formulas. This shift necessitates innovation in storytelling to recapture and retain audience interest.
Screenwriter Aniruddha Guha spoke to ETimes about the challenges that the writers face when working within strict commercial frameworks. He said, “Every kind of film requires a skill set. Whether it’s Laapata Ladies, a concept film with new faces, or Pushpa, which is heavily star-driven, the work ethic should remain the same. In 2024, a bunch of mainstream films didn’t do well at all. So it’s not that there’s a sure-shot formula. Pushpa works because it’s a well-made film. The hero’s character made an instant connection with audiences. And it’s not like it’s a lazily made film. There are some very well-written scenes, and at least five to six moments in the film that are extremely thought-through and well executed.”
He further added, “Making mainstream films takes work too. My takeaway from any year, and not just 2024, is that you can’t be lazy in your approach to any genre. As a scriptwriter, I have to stay honest to the framework I am working within, be honest to audiences. If it’s a commercial film, we have to ensure it has all the elements that make a mass-appealing film strike a chord with the audience.”
“On the other hand, if I am working on a script that’s in a more realistic space—and hard-hitting—I have to stay true to that and not meander in an effort to pander to the larger audience. There’s no one rule to follow except being honest to your story, true to what you’re trying to make, and giving it your best,” he shared.
Does he see a shift in the kinds of stories being told in Bollywood in 2025? “I do feel that there will be a larger emphasis on taking more commercially safe genres to the big screen. A film like, say, Piku or Queen, which were doing really well at the box office in the pre-streaming era, will go straight to OTT. So I actually feel that the overall number of films being made over the next 2-3 years will reduce substantially,” he concluded.
Competition from Regional Cinema and OTT platform
Southern Indian cinema has gained significant traction, with audiences gravitating towards its dynamic storytelling and production quality. Bollywood must elevate its creative standards to compete effectively. It also includes a shift of audience towards content produced by streaming platforms.
Shedding some light on the same, Vipul Shah told ETimes, “I don’t think OTT is a challenge. I think OTT is a great partner who is eventually going to build more audiences coming to cinema halls, because once you form the habit of watching entertainment on a daily basis, then obviously the need for you to step out of the house, go out and chill with your friends, social outing, family outings, they take, they become very very important and that audience which is right now watching a lot of OTT content is our future audience on the ticket window.”
He further added, “So I look at OTT as a great partner, I don’t see OTT as any kind of a problem and I also feel that if you want people to start coming to your film in cinema hall, your invitee will have to be more attractive, you can’t just depend on a formula or just a star cast, because at the end of the day, stars are responsible to get you the opening, but the film runs eventually from Monday on its merit. So it’s a teamwork and if you are able to give new stories, new content, content which is compelling and which has a great word of mouth, then I don’t see any problem with audiences coming to cinema halls.”
Economic Considerations
High production costs, coupled with actors’ substantial fees, have strained budgets. Industry insiders, including directors like Karan Johar, have criticized stars’ exorbitant demands, which inflate budgets without guaranteeing box office success.
Vipul Shah shared, “I think one of the most important trends in 2025 is going to be working on the budgets and content. I think we have failed quite a lot in our budgeting exercise. The costs of the films have gone so high that even if they do a great box office number, they are not considered successful. We have seen those kinds of results in this past year many times where the numbers are not bad. But yet the film is called a flop because the budget of the film is astronomical. And I think about the novelty of content. So I think these are going to be the two trends on which you will see a great emphasis from everybody. Every maker wants to control the budget now. And they want to deliver content which is new, fresh and very exciting for audiences to feel compelled to come to the cinema hall. So I think these are the most important trends that I see emerging in 2025.”
In conclusion, while 2025 presents promising opportunities for Bollywood with a diverse slate of anticipated films, the industry’s ability to adapt to changing dynamics and address internal challenges will be crucial in determining its success in the coming year.
