The Odia film industry, especially in recent years, has been applying the method of recreating hit Indian movies (which may or may not be adaptations themselves) to create high grossing films. Many films used the method and saw immense success, but the industry was never acknowledged by their peers for the same. However, with the huge popularity received by Daman (2022), the industry showed its potential after which a trend of artistic and quality cinema began in the Odia industry.
Villain, which is to release on October 9th, however defies this notion from its first look. Looking at the teaser that was launched recently, the film reminds us of the KGF model. The film hails an anti-hero (which is something new for the industry). The settings, the look and attitude of the protagonist and the minute features all look somewhat akin to that of KGF. Although one cannot say as of now, whether or not the film completely is copying the film and its story, but by the first looks it at least looks inspired from it.
The film is highly anticipated by the Odia audience with a great cast, high budget action and entertaining plot. But if the speculation about the film being on the template of KGF is indeed true, this will be a big setback for the Odia industry. After the release of Daman, the industry was appreciated nationally and slowly better and more sensible films were being made. And in the meantime when the makers of Daman are ready with another project that has the potential to go National- Parab; a film completely following an already hit film’s footsteps will be like pulling the legs of filmmakers to again indulge in adaptations and make money.
Odia film industry has been the highest grosser regional film industry that never got a national presence of itself. The image could have changed with more sensible films like Daman coming by makers. It is hoped that Villain will not be an adaptation or inspired project of KGF, as if it is so, the Odia film industry will suffer a lot of it, though the makers will make money.