The Story Continues...
Producer Suresh Babu says the proliferation of sequels is driven by business motives, not a dearth of ideas
Recent big-ticket films like Hari Hara Veera Mallu and Kingdom have ended on cliffhangers, and some sections of the audience have expressed disappointment over incomplete narratives. Yet, producers remain confident, promising stronger sequels.
While HHVM concluded with a dramatic face-off between Pawan Kalyan and Bobby Deol, Kingdom ended with Vijay Deverakonda’s coronation and the introduction of a new antagonist, setting the stage for Part 2.
Veteran producer Suresh Babu believes sequels are not just a creative choice, but a smart business strategy. “Sequels are here to stay. We’re inspired by Hollywood franchises that have worked wonders, be it Lord of the Rings, Indiana Jones, the Marvel series, or Star Wars. If you weigh the basket of originals against sequels, the latter has a stronger collection record,” he asserts.
He describes it as a well-calculated move: “It’s a new-age business trick. Sequels ensure a minimum guarantee at the box office, especially if the first part connects well with audiences. If the second instalment has a solid story, it only adds to the momentum.”
Tollywood’s sequel trend arguably began with the Baahubali series, which redefined the commercial landscape of Indian cinema. “I don’t think it was a wrong precedent,” Suresh says. “Rajamouli never originally intended a sequel, it was born out of excess footage and storytelling needs. They ended the first part with the now-iconic cliffhanger, ‘Why did Kattappa kill Baahubali?’ That worked because it was organic, not forced.”
The producer, however, warns against complacency. “You can't take things for granted. Even if you have a successful first part, the sequel has to stand on its own merit. A lazy continuation will only backfire.”
Several Tollywood sequels have indeed succeeded — Pushpa: The Rise and Karthikeya 2 are prime examples. Upcoming sequels like Devara and Salaar: Part 2 are already generating significant buzz.
But does the rising trend of sequels signal a dearth of fresh stories? Suresh disagrees. “I don’t believe filmmakers are turning to sequels due to lack of ideas. New stories still have their space. But star-driven sequels dominate because they bring in pre-established audiences and buyer interest.”
He notes that the sequel trend isn’t limited to Telugu cinema, citing Jailer 2 and Kaithi 2 in the works. While he scrapped a sequel to Aha Naa Pellanta due to an unsatisfying story, he confirms Ee Nagaraniki Emaindi 2 is definitely happening.