From storytelling to diversity, here’s how the Academy Awards 2025 can inspire Indian cinema.
Every year, the Oscars celebrate the best of world cinema. While India occasionally shines on the global stage, Bollywood still struggles to make its mark at the Academy Awards. The Oscars 2025 highlighted some powerful trends in filmmaking, storytelling, and cultural representation. So, what can Indian filmmakers learn from this? Let’s break it down.
1. Strong Storytelling Over Star Power
At the Oscars, scripts always take center stage. Films that win big often focus on tight storytelling, layered characters, and universal themes — not just celebrity names. In contrast, Bollywood sometimes leans too heavily on star power. The lesson? Invest more in good scripts and writers.
2. Diversity and Representation Matter
Oscars 2025 once again proved that diverse stories resonate globally. Films with multicultural casts and inclusive narratives were celebrated. Bollywood, however, often sticks to stereotypes. By embracing more inclusive stories — from regional voices to underrepresented communities — Indian cinema can connect with wider audiences.
3. Technical Excellence Elevates Storytelling
Sound design, editing, production design, and VFX are crucial elements at the Oscars. Even smaller-budget films win because of their technical brilliance. Bollywood, despite big budgets, sometimes neglects these finer details. Indian filmmakers can benefit by focusing on world-class post-production and cinematography.
4. Global Themes with Local Emotions
Oscar-winning films balance global relevance with local authenticity. They tell stories rooted in culture but relatable worldwide. Bollywood can learn from this balance: tell uniquely Indian stories but present them in a way that appeals to international audiences.
5. Marketing and Festival Strategy
Hollywood doesn’t just make great films — it markets them well. Months before the Oscars, films are showcased at festivals like Cannes, Venice, or Toronto. Bollywood films often miss this global exposure. By entering more international festivals and building buzz early, Indian cinema can increase its Oscar chances.
Conclusion
The Oscars 2025 were a reminder that cinema is evolving fast. For Bollywood, the lessons are clear: focus on strong scripts, embrace diversity, invest in technical quality, tell globally relevant stories, and market films smartly. If Indian filmmakers adapt these strategies, the dream of seeing more Indian films on the Oscar stage won’t be far away.
