Ranbir Kapoor, undoubtedly, is one of the finest and most gifted actors the present generation has witnessed in India. Despite the ongoing nepotism debate, which has also targeted Kapoor, he has proven his worth in films such as 'Rockstar,' 'Barfi,' 'Tamasha,' 'Wake Up Sid,' and 'Sanju,' his most recent release in 2018. The film was declared a superhit, and Ranbir garnered huge applause for his flawless acting.

The 39-year-old is making a comeback after four years of hiatus with two back-to-back releases - Ayan Mukerji's 'Brahmastra' and Karan Malhotra's 'Shamshera'. The trailers of these films were dropped creating a greater furore amongst moviegoers. The larger-than-life canvas, VFX, original storyline, impressive star cast, and all-in-one approach of both films promise to deliver a spectacular viewing experience.
<img alt="Wake Up Sid and Rockstar" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="45a526f8-6271-41cd-8316-b476a1ed0afc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/wake%20up%20sid.jpg" />
However, being optimistic about these films' ability to render epic and magnificent theatrical feats, there are a few jarring elements that may either make or break Ranbir's future in showbiz.

 
Delayed release of ‘Shamshera’ and ‘Brahmastra’&nbsp;

SS Rajamouli's 'Baahubali' franchise has already introduced the Indian audience to a new style of a magnum opus, followed by KGF Chapters, and 'RRR'. They are now accustomed to the entertainment factor of a multi-starrer, high-budget film. Hence, movies of such scale need to match the standards set by the previously mentioned films, as they have raised the bar of storytelling and production value.
<img alt="KGF chapter 2 and RRR" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b322842a-a8c6-4553-983f-6c317e38ce58" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_185.jpg" />
&nbsp;

Ranbir, seems late to the club as 'Brahmastra' and 'Shamshera', which were announced years ago, went through multiple delays due to technical issues and COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, these films might succumb at the box office due to their lack of freshness. 
&nbsp; 
Meanwhile, Ayan Mukerji, who has only two successful films to his name, that too almost a decade ago, has attracted speculation over his ability to handle a massive budget film. The same holds true for 'Shamsheras' director Karan Malhotra. Ayan and Karan have never directed any film that is even half the budget of their current productions, raising doubts about their credibility.

 
Ranbir Kapoor coming out of his shell

Ranbir Kapoor's filmography has majorly consisted of characters that fit with ease into his comfort zone of being a 'boy next door' who is flirtatious in nature and sets off on a journey of self-introspection. Ranbir's character in 'Brahmastra' falls in a similar light.
<img alt="Ranbir Kapoor in Shamshera" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a151e4ba-ad17-484f-8f35-b0f5f78cdcba" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29_176.jpg" />
On the other hand, in 'Shamshera', Kapoor will be seen in a double role, playing the character of a dacoit. This somewhat anti-hero character who does masculine action sequences falls way out of his comfort zone. This wide gamut of characters that might make the audience feel either too familiar with or distant with the star’s image, might not work in his favour. 
&nbsp; 
Content defines box-office success 
&nbsp; 
The actor's comeback seems more of a challenge given the recent trend of big-budget movies' doing unsuccessful business at the box office and Bollywood trying its hands on a multi-starrer concept after ages. In the present scenario, audiences have matured into viewers who are more sensitive toward what they are watching and spending their money and time on. Subsequently, audiences want to see films that are not only entertaining but have some content in them. 
&nbsp; 
Big or small, most Bollywood films are failing at the box office. This is due to several reasons, such as bad casting, poor performances, a weak screenplay that is underdeveloped, unnecessary subplots, and a reluctance to invest in new and better writers. The other major reason is the filmmaker's desire to compromise on the story’s relevance to appeal to the audience with lavish sets, costumes, and exotic locations.

&nbsp;
<img alt="Brahmastra" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="03433968-a07f-4a06-a450-48cfc2a4c390" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_227.jpg" />
 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Revival of multi-starrer genre in Bollywood&nbsp;

With time, audiences' tastes and preferences have transformed. Hence, makers have to create and market content that is original and one that excites audiences to throng the theatres. From the looks of it, 'Brahmastra' and 'Shamshera' seem to have this perfect combination that offers a good storyline and a multi-starrer cast, which Bollywood has been avoiding for some time now.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ted-lasso-star-brett-goldstein-finally-opens-up-about-his-cameo-in-thor-love-and-thunder-498953">'Ted Lasso' star Brett Goldstein finally opens up about his cameo in 'Thor: Love and Thunder'</a>

 
Sushant Singh Rajput’s death led to a debate on nepotism&nbsp;

The death of actor Sushant Singh Rajput riled up the audience against the Hindi film industry with accusations of having "gangs" and not providing opportunities to the "outsiders". His death has caused hatred in the audience against the industry, especially those who are considered Bollywood "insiders."

 
Films vs religious sentiments&nbsp;

On the contrary, 'Brahmastra' is already caught up in controversy for hurting religious sentiments in the ongoing boycott row. The film, which is inspired by Hindu mythology and God Shiva, was said to have hurt religious sentiments in one of the scenes that show Ranbir entering a temple wearing footwear. While 'Shamshera' has also been accused of offending religious sentiments, with people expressing outrage that Hindus are always portrayed as villains. While these online debates might be irrelevant; they could also have a negative impact on the film's performance.

&nbsp;
<img alt="Sanjay Dutt in shamshera" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9cad152b-a202-41b8-be2e-7d3c2d0c0583" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/sanjay.jpg" />
Regardless of all the speculation, online debates, and controversy surrounding these two films, time will tell if they will be able to shatter box-office records like an 'RRR' or 'KGF 2'.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/shamshera-movie-cast-speak-exclusively-to-wion-498245/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

Ranbir Kapoor, undoubtedly, is one of the finest and most gifted actors the present generation has witnessed in India. Despite the ongoing nepotism debate, which has also targeted Kapoor, he has proven his worth in films such as 'Rockstar,' 'Barfi,' 'Tamasha,' 'Wake Up Sid,' and 'Sanju,' his most recent release in 2018.

Ranbir Kapoor, undoubtedly, is one of the finest and most gifted actors the present generation has witnessed in India. Despite the ongoing nepotism debate, which has also targeted Kapoor, he has proven his worth in films such as 'Rockstar,' 'Barfi,' 'Tamasha,' 'Wake Up Sid,' and 'Sanju,' his most recent release in 2018. The film was declared a superhit, and Ranbir garnered huge applause for his flawless acting. The 39-year-old is making a comeback after four years of hiatus with two back-to-back releases - Ayan Mukerji's 'Brahmastra' and Karan Malhotra's 'Shamshera'. The trailers of these films were dropped creating a greater furore amongst moviegoers. The larger-than-life canvas, VFX, original storyline, impressive star cast, and all-in-one approach of both films promise to deliver a spectacular viewing experience. However, being optimistic about these films' ability to render epic and magnificent theatrical feats, there are a few jarring elements that may either make or break Ranbir's future in showbiz. Delayed release of ‘Shamshera’ and ‘Brahmastra’ SS Rajamouli's 'Baahubali' franchise has already introduced the Indian audience to a new style of a magnum opus, followed by KGF Chapters, and 'RRR'. They are now accustomed to the entertainment factor of a multi-starrer, high-budget film. Hence, movies of such scale need to match the standards set by the previously mentioned films, as they have raised the bar of storytelling and production value. Ranbir, seems late to the club as 'Brahmastra' and 'Shamshera', which were announced years ago, went through multiple delays due to technical issues and COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, these films might succumb at the box office due to their lack of freshness. Meanwhile, Ayan Mukerji, who has only two successful films to his name, that too almost a decade ago, has attracted speculation over his ability to handle a massive budget film. The same holds true for 'Shamsheras' director Karan Malhotra. Ayan and Karan have never directed any film that is even half the budget of their current productions, raising doubts about their credibility. Ranbir Kapoor coming out of his shell Ranbir Kapoor's filmography has majorly consisted of characters that fit with ease into his comfort zone of being a 'boy next door' who is flirtatious in nature and sets off on a journey of self-introspection. Ranbir's character in 'Brahmastra' falls in a similar light. On the other hand, in 'Shamshera', Kapoor will be seen in a double role, playing the character of a dacoit. This somewhat anti-hero character who does masculine action sequences falls way out of his comfort zone. This wide gamut of characters that might make the audience feel either too familiar with or distant with the star’s image, might not work in his favour. Content defines box-office success The actor's comeback seems more of a challenge given the recent trend of big-budget movies' doing unsuccessful business at the box office and Bollywood trying its hands on a multi-starrer concept after ages. In the present scenario, audiences have matured into viewers who are more sensitive toward what they are watching and spending their money and time on. Subsequently, audiences want to see films that are not only entertaining but have some content in them. Big or small, most Bollywood films are failing at the box office. This is due to several reasons, such as bad casting, poor performances, a weak screenplay that is underdeveloped, unnecessary subplots, and a reluctance to invest in new and better writers. The other major reason is the filmmaker's desire to compromise on the story’s relevance to appeal to the audience with lavish sets, costumes, and exotic locations. Revival of multi-starrer genre in Bollywood With time, audiences' tastes and preferences have transformed. Hence, makers have to create and market content that is original and one that excites audiences to throng the theatres. From the looks of it, 'Brahmastra' and 'Shamshera' seem to have this perfect combination that offers a good storyline and a multi-starrer cast, which Bollywood has been avoiding for some time now. Also Read: 'Ted Lasso' star Brett Goldstein finally opens up about his cameo in 'Thor: Love and Thunder' Sushant Singh Rajput’s death led to a debate on nepotism The death of actor Sushant Singh Rajput riled up the audience against the Hindi film industry with accusations of having "gangs" and not providing opportunities to the "outsiders". His death has caused hatred in the audience against the industry, especially those who are considered Bollywood "insiders." Films vs religious sentiments On the contrary, 'Brahmastra' is already caught up in controversy for hurting religious sentiments in the ongoing boycott row. The film, which is inspired by Hindu mythology and God Shiva, was said to have hurt religious sentiments in one of the scenes that show Ranbir entering a temple wearing footwear. While 'Shamshera' has also been accused of offending religious sentiments, with people expressing outrage that Hindus are always portrayed as villains. While these online debates might be irrelevant; they could also have a negative impact on the film's performance. Regardless of all the speculation, online debates, and controversy surrounding these two films, time will tell if they will be able to shatter box-office records like an 'RRR' or 'KGF 2'.

Both Bollywood and Ranbir Kapoor need 'Shamshera' and 'Brahmastra' to work at the box office

For years, Indian cinema avoided the subject of homosexuality and the transgenders in films. For the most part, it has been shown under the garb of comic relief. It's 2022 and the Indian film industry has still not given credence to homosexuality in its depiction, especially in the commercial space.

The month of June is celebrated as Pride Month with great pomp and dignity across the globe. This is when members of the LGBTQ community and their allies come together and organise events to spread awareness about the idea of equal rights and opportunities for their community.

Over the years, representation of sexual minorities in Indian cinema has remained careless and underplayed, with the third-gender portrayal being violently exaggerated in appearances, such as child traffickers, brothel owners, or pimps.
<img alt="Vijay Sethupathi in a still from 'Super Deluxe' " data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="51eecef9-d1aa-448d-ba35-867f2796858f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/super%20deluxe.jpg" />
However, Shilpa, played by Vijay Sethupati in the 2019 Tamil anthology 'Super Deluxe’, showed the vulnerable side of the trans communities. The film perhaps is one of the most sincere representations that the audience has witness in present times. In the film, Shilpa faces societal rejection and harassment from the police when she goes to file a missing report for her son Rasakutty. Shilpa's helplessness combined with her son and wife's slow acceptance makes it a thought-provoking watch, ultimately making the audience sympathise with the character.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/journey-of-lesbian-magazine-curve-hits-screens-this-pride-month-389502">Journey of lesbian magazine 'Curve' hits screens this Pride month</a>

Much like trans characters, gays and lesbians too didn't have much chance of being accurately represented in cinema as India's societal scenario was not favourable towards homosexuals for a very long time. Though there were a few filmmakers who dared to showcase concepts encircling same-sex relationships, it was not until 1996, when filmmaker Deepa Mehta made 'Fire', a story of a same-sex relationship between two women of the same household. The film received bitter and aggressive protests across the country, ultimately getting banned.

It took several years for films like 'My Brother Nikhil' (2005), followed by 'Margarita with a Straw' and 'Aligarh' in 2015, 'Dear Dad', 'Kapoor &amp; Sons' and 'Loev', all in 2016, to come out. The films received positive reviews from critics for their treatment of the subject and the sensitivity with which the characters were written.

In 2018, the Supreme Court of India passed a landmark judgement, striking down the draconian section 377 that decriminalised homosexuality. This judgement was welcomed by a wide section of society and people were able to talk openly about their sexual orientation without fear of discrimination. But this change was limited to urban society, and nothing much changed for sexual minorities in the interiors.
<img alt="Still from the films 'Bhadaai Do' and 'Shubha Mangala Jyada Savdhan'" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c231d812-ab91-4b40-a278-35ef31801c00" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/shubha%20mangal%20bhadai%20do.jpg" />
The community though still faces discrimination, violence, hostility, bullying and harassment, even from their family. 'Shub Mangala Jayda Savdhan' and 'Baadhai Do' are good examples where the protagonist feels insecure and is hesitant to express their sexual orientation.

Unlike the other forms of art, cinema has the power to become a catalyst for creating and stirring social change. Juhi Chawla's character in the film 'My Brother Nikhil', who plays the role of an elder sister to Sanjay Suri, understands that being gay is not a disease and supports him during his hard times. This film conveys the message that no matter one's sexual orientation, being acceptive and supportive of that fact can improve the quality of their life.
<img alt="Actors Juhi Chawla and Sanjay Suri in a still from the film 'My Brother Nikhil'" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6ff92344-a847-4dc9-a211-959034acf6f7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/my%20brother%20nkhil.jpg" />
Cinema, as we say, is a mirror of the society and is definitely the most appropriate platform to bring social inclusion and acceptance to the LGBTQ population- with more and more films embracing homosexual characters. But the picturization has to be done with care, sensitivity, compassion and understanding towards the community.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-best-makeup-looks-of-pride-month-2022-487693">Best makeup looks of Pride Month 2022</a>

Having a gay or bisexual character in a movie to illicit comedy or meaningless fun has to stop and in its place, a depiction of their normal life with abnormal challenges must be portrayed. Ayushman Khurana and Vani Kapoor starrer film 'Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui' though had scenes and offensive dialogues relating to trans people, the scene between Vani and her father has been beautifully and empathically produced, where sex change is not denounced but wholeheartedly accepted.
<img alt="A still from the film Kapoor &amp; Sons " data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ab25c20d-e44c-4d39-82a1-190b579ade37" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/kapoor%20n%20sons.jpg" />
Cinema and the media play a significant role in shaping stereotypes. A well-made, realistic and unquestionable film around a queer theme can in turn make people reflect on their thoughts about the community. This is best depicted in 'Kapoor &amp; Sons', where Fawad Khan's mother disowns him but gradually realises his feelings and accepts his sexual identity.

In today's age, the depiction of heterosexual emotions and sexuality is largely welcomed by the audience. Therefore, the emotional complexities of other genders, their life struggles, and challenges should also be presented in a similar manner that evokes empathy and consciousness amongst people.

'Angry Indian Goddesses', 'Cobalt Blue', short story 'Geeli Pucchi' from 'Ajeeb Daastaans' and 'Baai' from the anthology 'Modern Love Mumbai' sublimely show the developing homosexual desires. The premise of 'Angry Indian Goddesses' and 'Baai' deals with the marriage of a same-sex couple with the support of family and friends.
<img alt="Geeli Puchi from Ajeeb Dasthaaan " data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cb6837f8-1387-4798-bd55-6a5c69c07e3a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/geeli%20puchi.jpg" />
Similarly, in 'Ajeeb Dasstaan's' short story 'Geeli Pucchi', the two female protagonists develop a bond where one is hesitant to accept, while the other feels acknowledging is the only way to address the inner conflict.

In the last few decades, Indian cinema has been able to present sexual minorities effectively on the silver screen but sparsely.

The need of the hour is for more sensibly made queer-themed films with subtle and sensitive characterisation. This could help in truly bringing out the change in society towards this vibrant and amazing community.

Also Read&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pride-month-superman-to-captain-america-dc-marvel-their-lgbtq-superheroes-485570">Pride month! Superman to Captain America: DC, Marvel &amp; their LGBTQ superheroes</a>

For years, Indian cinema avoided the subject of homosexuality and the transgenders in films. For the most part, it has been shown under the garb of comic relief.

For years, Indian cinema avoided the subject of homosexuality and the transgenders in films. For the most part, it has been shown under the garb of comic relief. It's 2022 and the Indian film industry has still not given credence to homosexuality in its depiction, especially in the commercial space. The month of June is celebrated as Pride Month with great pomp and dignity across the globe. This is when members of the LGBTQ community and their allies come together and organise events to spread awareness about the idea of equal rights and opportunities for their community. Over the years, representation of sexual minorities in Indian cinema has remained careless and underplayed, with the third-gender portrayal being violently exaggerated in appearances, such as child traffickers, brothel owners, or pimps. However, Shilpa, played by Vijay Sethupati in the 2019 Tamil anthology 'Super Deluxe’, showed the vulnerable side of the trans communities. The film perhaps is one of the most sincere representations that the audience has witness in present times. In the film, Shilpa faces societal rejection and harassment from the police when she goes to file a missing report for her son Rasakutty. Shilpa's helplessness combined with her son and wife's slow acceptance makes it a thought-provoking watch, ultimately making the audience sympathise with the character. Also Read: Journey of lesbian magazine 'Curve' hits screens this Pride month Much like trans characters, gays and lesbians too didn't have much chance of being accurately represented in cinema as India's societal scenario was not favourable towards homosexuals for a very long time. Though there were a few filmmakers who dared to showcase concepts encircling same-sex relationships, it was not until 1996, when filmmaker Deepa Mehta made 'Fire', a story of a same-sex relationship between two women of the same household. The film received bitter and aggressive protests across the country, ultimately getting banned. It took several years for films like 'My Brother Nikhil' (2005), followed by 'Margarita with a Straw' and 'Aligarh' in 2015, 'Dear Dad', 'Kapoor & Sons' and 'Loev', all in 2016, to come out. The films received positive reviews from critics for their treatment of the subject and the sensitivity with which the characters were written. In 2018, the Supreme Court of India passed a landmark judgement, striking down the draconian section 377 that decriminalised homosexuality. This judgement was welcomed by a wide section of society and people were able to talk openly about their sexual orientation without fear of discrimination. But this change was limited to urban society, and nothing much changed for sexual minorities in the interiors. The community though still faces discrimination, violence, hostility, bullying and harassment, even from their family. 'Shub Mangala Jayda Savdhan' and 'Baadhai Do' are good examples where the protagonist feels insecure and is hesitant to express their sexual orientation. Unlike the other forms of art, cinema has the power to become a catalyst for creating and stirring social change. Juhi Chawla's character in the film 'My Brother Nikhil', who plays the role of an elder sister to Sanjay Suri, understands that being gay is not a disease and supports him during his hard times. This film conveys the message that no matter one's sexual orientation, being acceptive and supportive of that fact can improve the quality of their life. Cinema, as we say, is a mirror of the society and is definitely the most appropriate platform to bring social inclusion and acceptance to the LGBTQ population- with more and more films embracing homosexual characters. But the picturization has to be done with care, sensitivity, compassion and understanding towards the community. Also Read: Best makeup looks of Pride Month 2022 Having a gay or bisexual character in a movie to illicit comedy or meaningless fun has to stop and in its place, a depiction of their normal life with abnormal challenges must be portrayed. Ayushman Khurana and Vani Kapoor starrer film 'Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui' though had scenes and offensive dialogues relating to trans people, the scene between Vani and her father has been beautifully and empathically produced, where sex change is not denounced but wholeheartedly accepted. Cinema and the media play a significant role in shaping stereotypes. A well-made, realistic and unquestionable film around a queer theme can in turn make people reflect on their thoughts about the community. This is best depicted in 'Kapoor & Sons', where Fawad Khan's mother disowns him but gradually realises his feelings and accepts his sexual identity. In today's age, the depiction of heterosexual emotions and sexuality is largely welcomed by the audience. Therefore, the emotional complexities of other genders, their life struggles, and challenges should also be presented in a similar manner that evokes empathy and consciousness amongst people. 'Angry Indian Goddesses', 'Cobalt Blue', short story 'Geeli Pucchi' from 'Ajeeb Daastaans' and 'Baai' from the anthology 'Modern Love Mumbai' sublimely show the developing homosexual desires. The premise of 'Angry Indian Goddesses' and 'Baai' deals with the marriage of a same-sex couple with the support of family and friends. Similarly, in 'Ajeeb Dasstaan's' short story 'Geeli Pucchi', the two female protagonists develop a bond where one is hesitant to accept, while the other feels acknowledging is the only way to address the inner conflict. In the last few decades, Indian cinema has been able to present sexual minorities effectively on the silver screen but sparsely. The need of the hour is for more sensibly made queer-themed films with subtle and sensitive characterisation. This could help in truly bringing out the change in society towards this vibrant and amazing community. Also Read Pride month! Superman to Captain America: DC, Marvel & their LGBTQ superheroes

Pride Month: Power of cinema and the positive change it can wield on LGBTQ community

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Gayatri Adiraj

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.