The Evolution of Telugu Cinema: How Actors Navigate Positive Roles

Telugu cinema has undergone significant changes from its early days to the present. This article explores the journey of actors in the Telugu film industry, particularly focusing on the evolution of characters they play.

From Traditional Folk Performances to Modern Cinema

In the 1930s and 1940s, Telugu cinema was deeply rooted in traditional folk and mythological characters. Films often resembled stage dramas, with nooks and crannies of theatrical performances. The content tended to be lengthy and sometimes unwieldy, catering more to stage spectacles than cinematic storytelling. Moreover, the British censors influenced filmmakers to make films shorter, especially those supporting the war effort. This led to the concept of concise storytelling and character archetypes.

The Independence Era and the Rise of Screenplay Quality

After India’s independence in 1947, the focus shifted. Filmmakers began to hone their screenplays, and actors underwent a significant transformation. Actors were juggling multiple films in a single year, with some taking on up to five films in just a few months. Their primary concern was audience entertainment rather than deep moral messages. However, their popularity often hinged on pleasing the public, not risking their careers on unpopular choices.

The Fan-Fueled Era and the Rise of Formula Films

With the rise of fan culture, actors were no longer taking risks. Fans treated their favorite actors like gods, and the industry catered to this adoration. The desire for fan satisfaction often led to formulaic storytelling. Producers and directors stuck to tried-and-true formulas like the 6-song structure, a love story, a villain, a big fight, a comedy, and a sentimental climax. Even critics like SS Rajamouli, a renowned filmmaker, have spoken about the reluctance of some actors to deviate from the hero mold due to fan expectations.

For example, in the 1957 film Maaya Bazaar, actors played traditional good guy roles, but as the years passed, the industry began to adhere more rigidly to this formula. Fans often fiercely argued over which actor had the better role in a film, and producers were hesitant to experiment, fearing potential box office losses.

The OTT Boom and Changing Times

The advent of OTT platforms and the lockdowns brought significant changes to the industry. Audiences started accepting a wider variety of content, leading to more experimental films and characters. This new wave allowed actors to explore different roles and genres. While older actors still stick to traditional positive roles, the new generation of actors is embracing diverse character portrayals.

However, the fan culture hasn’t completely changed. Despite this, the audience's perspective has evolved, giving the industry a new dynamic. This shift has opened doors for more experimentation, both in storytelling and character development.

This evolution in Telugu cinema showcases the industry’s resilience and adaptability. As the years passed, actors have had to navigate between traditional roles and the demands of modern audiences. The future of Telugu cinema is looking more promising with a blend of old tradition and new contemporary storytelling.

References: Pavan Santosh Surampudi's book