In 2024, the Indian cinema and entertainment industry experienced a transformative year marked by significant trends and innovations that reshaped audience engagement and film consumption. As we reflect on these developments, it is essential to understand how they have influenced the cinematic landscape, particularly in the context of evolving viewer preferences and technological advancements.
Re-releases and Star Film Festivals revive Classics
This year witnessed a resurgence of re-releases and curated film festivals, reflecting a growing nostalgia for iconic films across India. Over 100 iconic titles like ‘Rockstar’, ‘Laila Majnu’, ‘Kal Ho Naa Ho’, ‘Manichitrathazhu’, ‘Ghillie’, and ‘Devadoothan’ drew audiences back to theatres, with occupancy rates surpassing 30 per cent. Films such as ‘Tumbbad’ and ‘Laila Majnu’ recorded the highest footfalls, proving the timeless appeal of familiar stories and beloved characters.
Simultaneously, festivals dedicated to cinematic legends like Akkineni Nagarjuna and Kareena Kapoor Khan brought a new generation closer to film history. These events not only honoured cinema’s legacy but also fostered community engagement through interactive sessions and remastered screenings. By offering a nostalgic yet enriched movie-going experience, re-releases and film festivals continue to affirm the enduring magic of cinema.
Beyond Movies: Cinemas turned Live Event hubs
The integration of alternate content, such as live sports broadcasts, became a key innovation in cinema programming. PVR Inox, for example, partnered with Aaj Tak to stream the Ayodhya Ram Mandir inauguration and the 75th Republic Day Parade across its theatres. This approach maximises cinema utilisation while transforming theatres into venues for communal experiences, blending tradition with modern convenience.
This trend reflects a broader shift in consumer behaviour, as audiences increasingly seek immersive experiences that go beyond passive viewing. By diversifying content offerings, cinemas are evolving into cultural hubs that attract wider demographics, drive foot traffic, and enhance revenue.
Innovative Experiences: AI and Premium formats redefine Cinema
The industry continues to leverage technology and premium formats to revolutionise the movie-going experience. PVR Inox’s AI-powered Movie Jockey (MJ) chatbot, available 24/7 on WhatsApp, offers personalised recommendations, seamless bookings, and essential movie details in multiple languages, enhancing convenience for cinema lovers across India.
Additionally, premium formats like 4DX, IMAX, and ICE (Immersive Cinema Experience) remain in high demand, delivering sensory-rich entertainment. These formats have become significant revenue drivers, contributing 15 per cent to overall collections. These innovations underscore the industry’s commitment to audience-centric, cutting-edge cinematic experiences.
Pan-India films: Breaking boundaries
Pan-India films continue to blur linguistic and cultural lines, attracting diverse audiences. Telugu films like ‘Kalki-2’ and ‘Pushpa 2’ enjoyed massive success in Hindi-speaking markets, often outpacing Bollywood releases. The universal appeal of these films showcases the growing demand for resonant storytelling that transcends language barriers.
As filmmakers embrace diverse narratives, the industry is poised to engage broader audiences and redefine what it means to create universally relatable cinema.
Cinema’s Global triumph
Indian cinema reached new heights in 2024, with Payal Kapadia’s ‘All We Imagine as Light’ becoming the first Indian film to win the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival. This landmark achievement highlights the global resonance of Indian storytelling and solidifies India’s growing prominence on the world stage.
Facing Challenges, Embracing Change
While challenges persist, such as fluctuating box office revenues, the success of films like ‘Pushpa 2’ underscores the importance of innovative storytelling and strategic planning. Mid-budget films like ‘Stree 2’ have also thrived, proving that audiences continue to prioritise strong narratives over high production costs.
Looking Ahead: Cinema trends and innovations for 2025
The Indian cinema industry is poised for a transformative year in 2025. Regional cinema continues to shine on the global stage, captivating audiences with its authentic storytelling and cultural richness. The trend of re-releasing iconic films is thriving, fuelled by the success of film festivals celebrating legends like Amitabh Bachchan and Kareena Kapoor. At the same time, immersive and community-driven experiences, such as Candlelight Concerts, are redefining theatres as vibrant social hubs, offering more than traditional film screenings.
Sustainability is also taking centre stage, with the industry placing a growing emphasis on green production practices and energy-efficient cinema operations to align with environmental priorities.
Amid these shifts, PVR Inox remains at the forefront of innovation. The AI-powered Movie Jockey (MJ) Chatbot is revolutionising convenience with personalised movie recommendations and seamless bookings. Concepts like Flexi Shows, which allow audiences to pay only for the time they watch; and ScreenIT, offering tailored private screenings, are redefining flexibility and personalisation. PVR Inox is also taking the big screen experience to new heights by hosting live screenings of major sporting events, including Premier League football matches and cricket games, fostering a sense of community among sports enthusiasts.
With a robust content lineup catering to diverse audiences and an ongoing commitment to sustainable practices, PVR Inox continues to set industry benchmarks. By blending innovation with inclusivity and timeless cinematic traditions, PVR Inox is ensuring that theatres remain a cornerstone of entertainment and shared experiences in 2025 and beyond.
(The author of this article is Gautam Dutta, CEO, Revenue and Operations, PVR Inox.)
