The Absence of Large-Scale Science Fiction Films

One of the earlier posters for the film "2.0", one of South Asian cinema's only large-scale science-fiction productions

When we think of South Asian cinema, we primarily think of all the cheesy rom-coms, the corny action set-pieces, and the hype that largely surrounds established actors (while leaving most of the actresses to the dust). However, there have been some strides taken in numerous different industries to break down some of these negative labels and stereotypes; actresses are being offered actual meaty roles in which they can truly display the talent they have, and more and more established actors are starting to work with directors that are primarily known for films that are content and substance-driven. Films are being made that explore myriad different aspects, both positive and negative, of Indian society with reduced backlash and censorship. Despite all this progress, there remains one specific film genre that has remained relatively untouched, and that is the science-fiction/disaster film genre.

The only big-budget science-fiction films that have been made as of recent are Enthiran and its sequel 2.0. Smaller scale science fiction films in various Indian film industries have been produced as well (24, Iru Mugan, Drona, Love Story 2050, etc.); however, most of these films were either met with poor critical reception and bombed at the box office or were only moderately successful at the box office. These films weren’t able to gain much traction on a national level. Going back to 2.0, there was a lot of money that was spent ensuring that the special effects and CGI were of the highest quality. The film was delayed multiple times until it finally was released in late 2018. Upon release, I found the screenplay of the film to be utterly absurd (watch the trailer if you don’t believe me), and some of the major action scenes were absolutely overdone as in the predecessor. I just can’t fathom that it’s 2020 and this is the best that we can come up with.

There’s so much potential for exploration of various science-fiction related topics in Indian cinema. Sub-genres dealing with post-apocalyptic dystopias, space, raging animals and other creatures, artificial intelligence, and even aliens have hardly received any exposure. It’s mostly science-fiction films from Hollywood that are screened in many theaters and proceed to mint money. I’d love to see more directors tackle material that tends to only exist in our vivid imaginations. I’d also love to see established actors and actresses take some risks and act in these kinds of films provided that they’re being directed by reputable directors. One of the pressing issues with creating big-budget science-fiction films is that these films will not be financially profitable due to the fact that these films will likely only succeed in established multiplexes. Single screen theaters, which are largely present in more rural cities and towns, experience the most success when screening more formulaic, “massy” films. If more established stars in these film industries can sign up for these kinds of films, they could possibly get their large conglomerate of fans to come out and ensure that these films are indeed successful. Hopefully in the coming decade, we’ll be able to see more films that provide exposure to this under-represented film genre in Indian cinema!