Indian cinema once thrived on its ability to balance humour and irony with thought-provoking stories. But today, this charm seems to be vanishing. Filmmaker Sudhir puts it bluntly: “Humour and irony are sorely lacking in Indian cinema.”
He’s not wrong.
Look back at classics like Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro or Chupke Chupke. These films entertained while offering sharp commentary on society. Now, what do we get? Films that are either too serious or too loud, leaving no room for subtle, clever humour.
Sudhir adds, “A lot of so-called ‘good’ films are over-sincere. They’re like a balm, comforting the audience, making them feel like ‘good people.’” He’s spot on. The industry has shifted to storytelling that soothes rather than challenges.
Take Gully Boy. A great film, no doubt, but it plays it safe. It doesn’t risk unsettling the audience. Compare that to Peepli Live, which used satire to expose harsh truths while making us laugh.
The problem?
Filmmakers fear discomfort. But isn’t discomfort what sparks thought? As Sudhir rightly says, “Life itself is a suspense film.” It surprises, disturbs, and challenges. Shouldn’t cinema do the same?
If Indian filmmakers keep playing it safe, we’ll lose what made our stories stand out: the ability to laugh at ourselves while questioning the world around us. It’s time to bring back the humour, the irony, and the boldness. That’s what truly makes cinema unforgettable.